A case study of the Flood Recovery Task Force (FRTF) in northeastern Pennsylvania reinforces the importance of preexisting, integrative structures to group mobilization and documents the routine political nature of FRTF activity. The study also establishes the role of well-organized status and economic influentials in disaster recovery. (Author/KC)

The chronology and effects of a 1978 blizzard on Indianapolis' air pollution levels (ozone, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide) are used as a case study for geography classes. Photographs, graphs, and maps are provided as examples of meteorological data collection and interpretation. (AM)

Studies changes in the physical and social composition of Skid Row. Results indicate multiple agency users were found to have a greater alcohol problem and to be more socially isolated than nonagency users. Multiple agency users were very much in need of subsistence level support and health maintenance. (Author)

This analysis of the turn of the century public policy debates on state provision of school meals brings to light the political forces that continue to determine the health and well-being of urban school children. (JD)

Research problems related to studies of school desegregation in urban areas are identified and discussed. A review of statistical models used in desegregation research indicates that deviation models are the most appropriate for investigating short-run effects of desegregation. (Author/DB)

Presents a rationale and an outline for a student research project on urban problems. Procedures include observation and analysis of a contemporary problem (e.g., ethnic relations, crime, recreation, or transportation); field work incorporating pictures, slides, or films; and production of a film-tape documentary pertaining to the problem. (DR)

Explores why there are so many poor children in the United States, beginning with a review of the reasons for adult poverty. Economic and demographic factors are considered in an analysis of the likelihood that an individual will earn enough to keep his or her family out of poverty. (SLD)

Focuses on recent studies that explore the relationships between poverty and child outcomes in depth. Overall, this research supports the conclusion that family income has selective, but sometimes quite substantial, effects on child and adolescent well-being. Implications for interventions during childhood are discussed. (SLD)

This study measures the effects of changes in social, demographic, economic, and structural characteristics of metropolitan areas on the changes in metropolitan poverty rates and in the spatial concentrations of poverty in their central cities. Findings support the view that metropolitan economic growth reduces metropolitan poverty. (Author/SLD)

The potential of the community development corporation (CDC) as a vital component of inner-city development politics is explored and its limitations are outlined. In some neighborhoods, nonprofit CDCs have helped build an alternative social production process and have advanced a new and progressive development regime. (SLD)

Poverty and racism are the chief causes of homelessness. Political action is needed to persuade the government to provide affordable housing and related social services. (DM)

As the official position statement of a committee of the National Mental Health Association, this paper advocates a national mindset that finds violence simply unacceptable and supports social, health care, and community support policies that promote healthy and secure communities that will ultimately prevent violence. (SLD)

Interviews using a conceptualization methodology with 32 black men explore the meaning of manhood and provide a perspective on masculinity often hidden in the discourse on the black male crisis. Conceptions of manhood reported reflect the survival and inner strength a man can use to negotiate racism and economic oppression. (SLD)