This issue of Local Knowledge focuses on the role of nonprofits and social entrepreneurs in rebuilding the Gulf Coast. In this issue you can read research articles that explain what social entrepreneurship is; that discuss how social entrepreneurs and nonprofits play a critical role in the response to and recovery after disasters; and that detail where and when nonprofits have played key parts in rebuilding.

Public disclosure is the mechanism used to report on performance to those who are entitled to know. In this Scorecard we assess how effective reports of the agencies of the federal governments are in disclosing pertinent information to the American people. We review these reports with the mindset of ordinary citizens who are interested in looking for the benefits that the agencies provide and the effectiveness of the agencies' efforts. Thus, our research provides an assessment of an agency's transparency of communications with the general public, its portrayal of the public benefits it provides, and its leadership vision for the future.

This comment gives a brief overview of case law, followed by a discussion of how advertising and labeling practices affect the consumer, and the FDA's handling of the trans fat labeling regulation, concluding with the recommendation of how the FDA should approach consumer protection in the 21st century.

This comment analyzes OMB's 2002 draft report to Congress on the costs and benefits of federal regulation.

In repealing pizza identity standards, the USDA eliminates an ill-conceived regulation that has obstructed producers' ability to create more healthful pizza in response to changing consumer tastes.