Abstract: A writing utensil having a distal end and a proximal end and extending generally along a longitudinal axis includes a casing having a slot extending generally along the longitudinal axis adjacent the proximal end, an eraser disposed on the proximal end of the casing, a valve coupled to the casing adjacent the distal end and including a valve door, a writing tip movable between a stored position in which the tip is stored within the valve and a writing position in which the tip extends out of the valve, and an actuator disposed in and slidable in the slot and operatively coupled to the writing tip such that movement of the actuator in the slot moves the writing tip between the stored position and the writing position.

Abstract: A messaging system comprises a message board, a freestanding support structure, and an instrument storage surface. The message board has a messaging surface adapted to at least temporarily presenting messages. The freestanding support structure is adapted to support the message board for display on a horizontal surface. The instrument storage surface is disposed behind the message board relative to the messaging surface such that the instrument storage surface is adapted to store a writing instrument in a position that is substantially hidden when the messaging surface is viewed.