Events are strictly nonpartisan, they are not intended to offer any kind of policy recommendations or agendas. They are simply meant to give greater insight into how we got to where we are, which we believe helps us to understand how we can solve problems. So a few thanks, and then i will turn it over to alan. First of all, the Mellon Foundation funds this program. We are very grateful to them. Secondly, the room has been booked for us by congressman jerry connollys office, and we are grateful to them. Finally, i want to thank my reiger,t director, jeff who is at the table outside but will be coming in shortly. Now i will turn it over to professor alan kraut from the american university, who will moderate the event. Before i do, let me say, most of you will find these index cards on your seat. The intent of these is that as the discussion proceeds, if you have questions, write them on these cards. We will collect them after formal remarks and use them to initiate the discussion. Think