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Letters for June to SeptemberSunday, October 23rd, 2011
Date: June 29, 2011
Well it has been a while…
Last week was crazy and I didn't have time to write any letters. We went to the temple and we did a session. When we got back the LAN house was closed so I couldn't write anyone.
This week was even crazier. Today was pretty amazing we went to Atibaia with our president. President Tanner had planned a trip to Atibaia with my new comp. Elder Sousa Santos so today we travelled to atibaia with our beloved president to visit and go up this huge rock that is there. It was way cool! It looked like another world there also we got to spend the entire day talking with our president. President Tanner is a really cool guy. He bought us food and took us everywhere in his hilux. I took a bunch of pictures that turned out pretty cool. The name of the place is called " Rocha Grande de Atibaia" it was a pretty cool trip. So we got back right now I don't even have time to write that much.
Well I have been doing pretty great recently, the members here are taking good care of us. The Relief Society with our investigators are supplying a lot of cake for us to eat. I am really happy. The work is going great and we are teaching a lot of people.
We had an emergency transfer a while ago because of a few missionaries that went home early so I received — in two weeks he will return to his hometown and start looking for a wife. I really like him the work is going well and we are working good together.
These last few weeks have been tough to talk to you guys and I will have to cut it short today too. But maybe next week it will be easier to actually respond the letters that you guys have sent me.
So I am glad that school is over that everyone is actively engaged in work and activities. I am extremely happy that you are not feeling anymore pain mom. That is wonderful.
Dad asked last week what colleges I wanted to go to. I want to apply for BYU, BYU Idaho, and WSU. I don't know what you guys will need or what the process is but you guys can tell me later.
Well our apartment here is pretty nice. It is just a little house with 2 rooms one bathroom and a kitchen. Perfect for missionaries. Up until now I have not seen any rodents.
So I love you all and I hope that you have a good week, sorry for not having more time. But our sweet trip took a lot longer that we thought. It was fun though. I had a great week and I know that this one will be great too. Tomorrow we have a conference with Elder Gadoy.
I love you all and I hope everything works out with dads job. Tchau!
Date: July 13, 2011
When I said WSU I meant UW. You know the college that is in Seattle. I would really prefer BYU Provo though. It would be the best option. I just need a school where I can get the basics down and then transfer to another school to get my other degrees. I don't even remember how the whole college thing works anymore. I just need to be ready to enter when I get off my mission. I have been thinking a lot recently about being a lawyer. Not a criminal one but a business one. Our mission president is a lawyer that only deals with big businesses it sounds like a pretty cool deal he is extremely rich and he was able to work for the church here in Brasil.
Well this last week has been good. The work here is great we have some wonderful families that are progressing at a good rate and other people who will be baptized this week. I am really liking the area. It is a small area with a small ward but we have obtained the bishop's confidence and the members are helping a lot. We are bringing people to the temple every week and life is just good. It is a bit tough because my comp doesn't have much ambition but he is a good teacher and he doesn't want to just stay inside and do nothing.
So I have taken a bunch of photos so I will try to send you guys some today.
Yeah our trip to Atibaia was great. Our president is really cool. He is an old guy. He is like 63 but he is really a cool guy I would like to know more about him. He served his mission in Brasil and also served in the marines. He went to school at BYU and mastered in law in UCLA. He served as the Lawyer here in Brasil for the church a couple of years ago. He is really an amazing mission president.
So this is my companion's last week so today we went back to the temple and we went through a session with our mission president. It was pretty cool. 20 Missionaries will be going home this transfer so there will be a lot of changes in the mission. A lot of areas will be closed I am excited to see what happens.
You guys are feeling summer in Washington. It is kind of cold here in Brasil.
So I just tried to send some Photos to you guys but my memory card has got a problem. It was working a little while ago but now it is not reading the memory card. I will send it to you guys so you can restore the card and see what happened. I don't want to mess with it here because if I do something wrong I will end up losing all my pictures since the beginning of my mission. that would be extremely sad. So I will send it back to you guys so you can do some magic on it. Be extremely careful I don't want to lose everything. I hope I didn't already lose them.
As for my return date I don't know, I won't ask for a while though. It will be some time in February. I am thinking like the 5-6 something like that. I don't know. I will only know like 3 months before going home.
So sorry for not writing that much these last few weeks. we have been doing a lot of stuff.
You know working in the city is great. My area is like on the outskirts of the city not in the center so there is nothing that cool here. In Campinas one of the coolest things that they got is this huge flee market called Camelo. You can just get everything there for extremely cheap. Everything is falsified or stolen but it is still pretty cool the stuff you can find there.
So mom I will go now. I love you all and I hope you have a great week. I am doing wonderfully. I am just worried about my pictures right now… Everything will work out though.
I love you all and have a great week.
Date: July 13, 2011
Interesting… Everything changes. But it has to be that way though. I mean imagine if everything just stayed the same… That would be weird. Change is good though it makes life more interesting. Speaking of change my buddy Elder Sousa Santos returned to Fortaleza. Yep on Tuesday he left. It was good though. I liked him a lot. I was also able to visit an area that I passed by. On Monday we visited Rosolem and all the people there. I was able to sell my camera and also I was able to visit some of the people I got to know and baptized. I was there for a very short amount of time but everyone still remembered me and that was great. It is sad when no one remembers you and that happens to some missionaries. Everyone remembered me though and that was awesome!
So I got a new comp. His name is Elder Oliveira. He has 2 months in the mission. He is short and kind of dorky looking. He is from Rio Grande do Sul. He is a pretty cool guy.
So today I went and I bought a suit. It cost 100 reais which would be about 60 dollars. It is a plain gray suit. It is pretty cool looking. I didn't have a bunch of cash so I just bought the best cheap suit I could find. This suit is inexpensive but it is good looking. I also got a new bag the other day. A missionary that went home gave it to me. It is a really pretty bag one of those hiking bags. It is really nice. It is a brand called Mountain Smith. It is way nice. These days have been pretty nice to me.
Last week was an interesting week. It was disappointing. There was this one girl that was going to be baptized. Her name is Gabriela. She was a member's reference. It was going wonderfully but some theology guy came in and screwed everything up. She was so golden but then it just didn't work out. Unfortunately she is running from us now. Dad should know how that goes but everything will work out in the end.
But beyond that we had a cool activity that was really effective to help the members. This Saturday we will have a party at the church. It is called Festa Julina. It is a Brazilian festival that they have every year. Usually it is done in June and I think it is to commerate something to do with the Apostles John and Paul, I don't really know though.
So I have grown a lot physically this last little bit. I am pretty huge now. I just need to do some weight training after the mission and I will be pretty good looking.
That is pretty interesting about the jobs I hope it works out. I mean if he gets those jobs it will great. A whole lot closer to the family and in a city that is a little bigger than Oroville. It should be wonderful. I will have to fast this Saturday so that everything works out all right.
So did Preston cut his hair finally? He isn't that handsome with that hairdo
Yeah beyond the new bag and the new suit I also learned some other tricks. My comp taught me some card tricks so now I am pretty cool. I know card tricks and I am tall and handsome with a new suit!
As for the return date I don't know. I think it will be the 7th of February. I think that that is my return date I really don't know though.
Have you already thought in 7 months I will be home starting my life. I will have to get married too. What do you think about me getting married to a Brazilian? Would that be weird?
So I am loving life. I am having success as a missionary. I am working hard I am learning about revelation and how to rely on the Lord. I am being obedient and I am focused on the mission. I can honestly say that this experience has changed my future because of the things that I have learned here I will be a different person. Because of these experiences I will be able to stay strong when the going gets tough and all get through and overcome all my weaknesses. I have grown a lot in 1 year and 5 months. I hope that these last 7 months are even better than the last and I really think that they will be. I have learned how to work and if the Lord continues to bless us like he has been we will have a lot of success this transfer.
Well mother I love you and I hope that you all have a great week. I am praying that Dad gets his job and that you guys can leave as quickly as possible. I wonder if moving will be harder or easier with one less person… That is a good question.
I love you all and I hope that this week goes well.
See you guys later. Tchau!!!
Date: July 20, 2011
So I bought a new suit but I am also needing new shoes. My shoes broke again. I don't know what I am doing wrong my steps are so heavy that I just eat through this rubber. I mean I buy good shoes but they just don't work out well.
Next week I would like to buy some new ones on my P-day with a member so if you could put a little extra money in my account that would be wonderful. I don't know how much they will cost. I think I will buy a little more expensive this time more or less 80 reais ( 50 dollars)
I hate asking for money and stuff but I am seriously needing new shoes. I love you guys and I am extremely grateful for all the things that you are doing to help me. I know you have to sacrifice a lot but I am extremely grateful.
Your son
Elder Isaac Iverson
Date: July 27, 2011
So this week that went by was another week. Sunday was great because we were able to bring a couple of great people to church. The rest of last week was kind of difficult though. My comp is really different. I can live with him and all and not fight and argue but it is a bit difficult. I am working on it though.
Well last week was a bit tough but this week is going a lot better. On Monday I preached in an evangelical church. We have this investigator that has this church that she runs every week. It is just a church where she invites various pastors and other religious people to speak. I had never gone to an evangelical church before and I really don't want to go back. The religious leaders of these churches just teach things to make the people feel good and yell and shout and imitate miracles to take the peoples attention away from the spirit. The church service was held in her household and about 25 people were there. Mainly pastors and other religious leader but it was pretty interesting.
I taught about the restoration and Joseph Smith and told them the first vision. Everyone paid a lot of attention and a very sweet spirit filled the room I invited everyone to pray to God to know the truth and then I turned the time over to a member to bear his testimony that was unnecessarily long. It was good though at least those people know a little bit more about what we believe. I hope that we see fruits in the next few days. It was a cool experience though. I would never have done that before the mission but it was really easy to testify about the divine truths. I have really been converted. I have really had a change of heart. I just hope that I can continue to grow and have more success on my mission.
Yesterday we were able to have a family night with a family that the dad isn't a member. I think he will be baptized here in a little bit. We then taught another family that the Dad isn't a member. This man is married to his wife for 16 years. She has been a member since 13 years of age but he has never had much interest in the church. After talking with him he finally is progressing. We will visit the temple with the entire family this Friday. I think he will also be baptized in these next few weeks. They are progressing well and I have had a couple of very spiritual experiences with them that I will share with you all when I get home.
So this week has started out wonderfully. I hope that it continues to go well.
So I was able to take out the money that you sent. Thank you! I got this huge hole in the heel of my shoe I will go and buy new ones after writing you guys emails. Oh and I haven't gotten any of dad's emails recently. Has he changed his email address?
So hope you guys take a lot of pictures of your vacation I want to see how Long Beach is considering the fact that I have no recollection of ever being there. I hope you guys can really relax a bit.
Well mother and family I love you all. I am doing wonderfully and I am happy.
Date: August 10, 2011
Well sorry for last week. I was sick so I didn't write anyone. Well that is wonderful that your vacation is going well. I hope that you all have fun.
These last few days have been rough I have had a tough time with sickness. I am still a little sick. It is just a cold but it won't go away. It stinks! I have never had trouble with sickness in my mission up until now. I hate it! It hasn't kept me in the house though. I am able to go and work and like normal so that is the good thing.
So here things are going great. We are teaching, and doing a bunch of cool stuff. The Ward is excited and everything is going pretty wonderfully. I will send some pictures of our last temple trip with this one family that I love. I am loving the work. I have really been able to help this ward grow a bit. I mean it wasn't me it was God but I am glad that I was an instrument in helping this place grow a bit. I hope I can help a bit more in these next few weeks.
So I also got an email from Andrew and David this week. It was good to here from them. Life has changed a lot for them. Things will be different when I get home.
So I am doing good. My comp is doing good too.
Well as for exciting changes since the last time that I wrote… I really don't think that there have been any. life is about the same. I can't think about anything interesting to write.
I do have some questions about the new house. Where is it at? How much does it cost? Where is it located? I need the address and phone number to give to the mission. They have to know when we change addresses. So if you could send me this information as quickly as possible it would be greatly appreciated.
Well I am glad that you are liking the Book of Moses. I also love that book. It helps you understand the temple a lot more. I am grateful for all the things restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith. I feel bad for those who reject all this wonderful information.
You know what I miss. I was thinking the other day and I am missing hot cheetos. They don't exist here in Brasil. If you could send some in the next package I would love it.
Well I loved the pictures. I would also like to see a picture of the new house. Have fun on the beach! Man that does look like a lot of fun!
I love you guys and I will talk to you later!
I Iove Brasil and my mission. There really is nothing better. I will tell you though Brazilians love tall white Americans. The people think I am just beautiful. They also think I am filthy rich. I just wanted to let you all know. Haha!
So I will go now have a great week.
Date: August 17, 2011
That is pretty interesting that you guys are moving. That is definitely a weird thought. I guess I will never be going home. I will just be going to where I was born. It is weird that you guys are going to the place where the family started out.
So the last time in Oroville. That is kind of a sad thought. I liked that place but I am pretty happy to start completely over again. Weird huh. I will return to a completely different ward with completely different people. so weird!
Sweet that you will be working though. I hope the job is pretty cool.
You guys don't really need a big house though I mean really right now all the kids are going to be leaving the nest a starting their own lives. I will come back and go to school. Preston will be in the mission. Colton will be preparing to leave on the mission. It must be strange you and Dad are really entering the next stage of life where you get to see if your kids will make it in the world. I bet you guys must be feeling really weird. I sure am.
So as for the mission and my life… Well this last week was pretty good. It was a little disappointing in some ways. I mean the mission is wonderful and all but it gets a bit annoying always having to rely on other people to do what you asked them to do. Rely on members to give people rides. Rely on investigators to do what they said they would do.
I have learned some extremely important lessons about leadership here in the mission. Leadership and planning. You have to gain people's trust and confidence and you have to follow through with everything that you promised. If you don't do that no one will do what you ask. The mission has taught me a lot about how to deal with people. I was never much of a people person before the mission but now I have learned how to be the guy that everyone likes and trusts. But in the end, many people are not reliable and that unfortunately brings unhappiness and frustration sometimes in the mission. This week really wasn't that bad though.
Yeah about those "people" we talked about, it is unfortunate that they are making bad choices. It is really sad that they don't have that desire to be different. One of the things that Satan uses to take people from the path of righteousness is peer pressure. People worry way too much about what other people think. If you do that you just end up being unhappy and making stupid choices. It is sad but peer pressure and wanting to be accepted keeps a lot of people from the truth. Usually you know you are doing something right when idiots and fools start to criticize you. The weak change their minds and the strong persevere in their decisions to do what is right even though it is almost always hard. I'm sad, but we can't make decisions for other people. We can only decide for ourselves who we will follow.
You know transfers are coming up. I have no idea what will happen but I am pretty excited.
So this Sunday was Father's Day in Brasil. So wish a happy Brazilians Father's Day to dad. I hope this week was good for you guys too.
Thanks for the address. I like it Peach Tree lane. It is a rather pleasant sounding name. It would be cool if there were really peach trees there. I love peaches. So I need to see a picture because I am having a hard time imagining this place where you guys live.
As for the pictures I will do better and I will take more photos and send small amounts in the emails. This week doesn't work because I am in a division and I don't have my camera with me. So you will have to wait until next week.
Well I am happy and excited for the move. I hope that everything goes well. Good luck with my stuff. ha-ha. Unfortunately I won't be there to help.
Well my family I love you all. I am glad that your vacation was cool. Who all went anyways? and how long were you guys there?
Well my family I love you all and I hope you have a great day and week. See you guys later!
Date: August 31, 2011
Still no pictures of the house? That is kind of sad I wanted to see what it is like.
So yeah my comp is way cool. I mean he doesn't talk much but he is really relaxed and he has a desire to do the work. That is all that matters. He is a new guy but he already has many of the skill necessary to be an effective missionary. It is nice when you got a comp like that — it is really nice.
So the ward here is pretty amazing. Our bishop is a professional pianist and half of the ward plays a certain type of instrument. Everyone is really talented here so it is cool. We had a music-based activity last Saturday that was really well done. I was impressed with the ward there was this one girl that made a song and sang it in English. It was really well done. I heard that this ward was terrible but I am liking it a lot. The members are practically worshipping us because we arrived. They were without missionaries and now that we got here everyone is just loving us. It is nice to feel so wanted and loved. I am happy with the ward and we have our own chapel.
So these last few days have been good. We have gotten to know a lot of members and we have started to find quite a few investigators. Everything is going pretty well missionary work wise.
So this next Tuesday we will be meeting our new president and that will be pretty cool.
I am glad your birthday was great, I forgot to send a birthday card. Hey what letter did you guys get from me? I don't remember the last time that I wrote and sent a letter.
Hmm… I need to send you guys some photos. I will do that now.
Date: September 7, 2011
That is great that everybody is getting back into the swing of things. That makes me feel pretty happy.
Well this weekend was a little disappointing. My comp is sick, there is nothing more annoying than a sick comp. because you can't do anything. He has some type of sinus infection and a sore throat. I don't know what is going on exactly but we already went to the doctor's office and everything now we just got to buy the meds and hope for the best. Luckily the ward is supportive, they are all praying for him and our bishop visited us the other day so that was pretty nice. We had to stay home both Saturday and Sunday (after church) there is nothing I hate more than staying in the house. Fortunately in my mission I have not had to do that that much. Thank goodness.
So beyond that everything is good. I am happy and I am loving the ward here. It was so easy to gain their confidence and their help in the missionary work. There are some great members here.
So how is the ward like there in Yakima? Is it enormous? Is there a bunch of cool people that go there? what is it like?
Yeah I know how that feels to prepare something and then not be there to reap the rewards. That happens a lot on the mission. It really doesn't matter in the end but it is always nice when you can reap what you sowed. Sometimes it just doesn't happen in life but the blessing are the same. I found out the other day that the only family that I was able to help bring to church here in Rio Claro is still active. that was an amazing feeling. I don't know if you remember José and Lourdes. they still have not been able to sort out the marriage problem but they are still going strong and it has been almost a year now. If they'd been baptized when I was here I could watch them be sealed in a couple months. That would have been really amazing to see. Unfortunately they aren't married still but they are going strong and one day they will be married and baptized and sealed so that is an amazing thought. I am really happy to know that they are active in the church still.
Well yeah you guys got to help Preston a lot now. It is a really tough time waiting before the mission. He has got to get a job that will help a lot with the depression. It is a tough time and really Satan does attack a lot harder before the mission. Usually with feelings of guilt and inadequacy. He has just got to get into good study habits (scripture wise) and has to get a job. If he does this and becomes very active in the church with the activities and the callings everything will work out right. He should be happy and enjoy this time before the mission. He has to prepare well because the beginning of a mission is tough spiritually. It is a completely different world.
Yeah Andrew wrote me again. It looks like the situation is getting worse. Everyone of my friends is just living their lives like the world want them to. It is sad. I should have done better before the mission in helping them to get to know the church. God's plan is perfect and it will work out great in the end. I am sure I will be able to help them after the mission. I have changed a lot. They will either change to stay close to me or they will slowly fall away. I hope that they want to change.
So about schooling… I think I just want to do my bachelor's in BYU Idaho and then transfer to another school. Or just do everything in BYU Provo. Well did you already get that paperwork started?
How is Colton doing has he gotten better? And the rest of the family? Are my Grandmothers fine and still going strong?
Well today is a Brazilian holiday! how wonderful.
And also I forgot to tell you I am living in a house with 4 missionaries again. It is way cool. There is one missionary that likes to cook so there is always good food to eat. I already know all the guys that are here so it is way easy to live with everyone. It is nice to live with 3 other missionaries. There is never a quiet moment and P-day is a lot more enjoyable. The other companionship consists of Elder Almeida and Elder Santana. They both have a good amount of time in the mission. Elder Almeida 1 year and 1 month and Elder Santana 1 year and 8 months.
Well tell everyone in the ward and family that I said "Ola"
I am really liking this time in the mission. The end is looking more real but I can clearly see that this is the time that I can have the most success as a missionary. I can take one of two paths: I can work hard and try hard to help the wards where I serve and teach and help a lot of people, or I can just pass my last few (5) months passing the time away doing nothing memorable.
I have recognized that exists these 2 choices and I chose the first. I will serve faithfully until the end. I feel great about everything that I have done in my mission up until now. I just want to baptize more people. Unfortunately I don't have complete control over that decision.
I love you all. I am loving my mission and my choice to serve it really has been the best choice I have ever made.
Until next week tchau!!!


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Acres of Darkness
Acres of Darkness is a Haunted Attraction located in Chattanooga, TN.
COVID-19 Updates
Confirmed Will NOT Be Open
900 N Sanctuary RoadChattanooga, TN 37421
About This Attraction:
Haunt Types:
Face the forest's natural dangers and more in Chattanooga's naturally terrifying haunt in the woods! Featuring an all-new cast of characters and surprises, the Acres of Darkness is haunted by a host of horrors you won't see anywhere else.
The Acres of Darkness is fun for the entire family with activities and entertainment for all ages. There are two trails plus the family area. One for the families, and our Haunted Trail for those who dare. Enjoy a s'more and a cup of cocoa by the bonfire or journey to the depths of the forest for the fright of your life.
All proceeds benefit the environmental conservation and education programs of the Chattanooga Audubon Society.
Optional Games/Midway, All-Outdoor Attraction, Family Friendly
Have you visited this attraction?
See anything that needs updated? Let Us Know!

subset: commoncrawl


text:
At the sunset of his life, 21-year-old cat Tigger was abandoned by his human at a local veterinary surgery. Sad and confused, he couldn't understand why. But then Adriene Nicole came along. Nicole saw his story on the Canton Neighbors page and decided to take him home. She wanted to give him the love he needed. (Scroll for video)
Courtesy of Tigger's Story
Sadly, Nicole soon discovered that Tigger had kidney failure and a golf ball-sized tumor. But it didn't hold Nicole back: "Though he has kidney failure and we found a tumor, he kicks it like a 12 yr old. We decided to create a bucket list full of random adventures [for Tigger]," she wrote on Facebook.
Courtesy of Tigger's Story
"Though it might not be much to others, all the little trips outside are a blast for him because he loves to be outdoors…the beach being his favorite so far," she explained. "The most important part is that Tigger's story just shows how amazing it is to adopt a geriatric pet and give them the best remaining days! He has forever changed our hearts and will hopefully change the hearts of others when it comes to adopting older pets!"
Courtesy of Tigger's Story
(H/T: Lovemeow)
[xyz-ihs snippet="pagelikes"]
[adinserter block="4″]


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Research says sleeping longer makes athletes play better, and teams tracking sleep stats to find advantages.
Rangers slugger Prince Fielder took part in a sleep study after having trouble getting rest during spring training. Increasingly, pro athletes and teams are becoming more aware of the link between proper rest and success.
Rangers slugger Prince Fielder took part in a sleep study after having trouble getting rest during spring training. Increasingly, pro athletes and teams are becoming more aware of the link between proper rest and success.
As a kinesiology student Alex Malone has a keen awareness of the link between recovery and performance, but didn't always think it applied to him. One day last winter the star running back at U of T headed into an intense weight training session on five hours sleep, but still figured he could dead-lift 600 pounds.
He made the lift, but as he put the barbell down blood tricked from his nose. Then it flowed. And then he admitted to himself he wasn't sleeping enough to support his heavy lifting.
"Sometimes I've had enough rest days that I should be performing well, but I'm physically and mentally exhausted," says Malone, who sleeps seven hours a day in season but less than six over the winter.
These days, athletes at U of T regularly complete sleep questionnaires to help coaches manage their workloads, and across the broader world of high-level sport sleep is getting more attention than ever.
Last week, fitful sleep forced Texas Rangers first baseman Prince Fielder to leave spring training in Arizona and head to a sleep clinic, where he was diagnosed with sleep apnea.
In Florida, the New York Yankees pushed practice time back to noon to allow players to sleep later and perform better.
It's not just a matter of telling players to get more rest. Increasingly, teams are tracking sleep like any other stat, using the data they glean to adjust schedules and gain an edge in competition.
The Raptors are one of a growing number of pro and NCAA outfits working with Vancouver-based Fatigue Science, a small firm that provides sleep monitoring data for clients in high-level sports and heavy industry.
"We've seen this shift from subjective to more objective data," says Jeff Zeilstra, Fatigue Science's account executive for high performance. "We're getting real-time insights into (athletes') cognitive effectiveness and their fatigue scores daily and weekly."
The focus on sleep isn't brand new.
The Vancouver Canucks first connected with Fatigue Science in 2011, while coaches at Northwestern University first employed wearable sleep monitors on football players in 2013. Last winter, the Raptors were among several NBA teams to ditch the traditional morning shoot-around, opting instead to let players sleep in.
While players report feeling better, the evidence of the benefits of enhanced sleep runs deeper than anecdotes.
Zeilstra says Fatigue Science licenses software developed by the U.S. military and employs an algorithm that predicts the erosion of an athlete's reaction time based on their sleep scores. According to the model, an athlete who scores 90 will react 25 per cent more quickly than one who scores 70.
In 2013, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine published the results of a three-year survey of major league baseball players that asked them to report their levels of sleepiness. Among players who reported fatigue in 2010, 39 per cent were still in the league in 2013 compared with 72 per cent of players who reported low levels of sleepiness.
Researchers at Stanford University found that three-point shooting accuracy increased by 9.2 per cent after basketball players were asked to up their sleep to 10 hours daily.
"Athletes are going to these crazy extents to make themselves better, with gas masks and all these different things," says Adrian Lightowler, U of T's head strength and conditioning coach. "The two we hit them with all the time: hydrate and sleep. That's the two easiest things you can possibly do to make yourself significantly better."
Lightowler points out that sleep helps athletes recover by boosting growth hormone while limiting cortisol, a stress-related hormone that suppresses immunity and breaks down muscle tissue. But he acknowledges scheduling sleep is a tougher task for university athletes, who balance practice with classes and tests.
Volleyball standout Denise Wooding remembers her first year at U of T as a hard lesson in the importance of sleep.
"Once you don't get a good sleep you can't focus on class and you have to go through everything twice just to make up for what you missed," says Wooding, who just finished her fifth year of eligibility. "You feel bad at practice and you're not recovering, so you're always sore. Then you feel like you need more sleep but you don't have time."
Zeilstra says the goal isn't just getting athletes to sleep better, but to use sleep data as part of an integrated approach to boosting performance and avoiding injury. A soccer team, for example, can pair sleep stats with data gleaned from wearable GPS units to determine which athletes are fresh and who can use a recovery day.
He also says clients commonly consult with his company on travel schedules, adjusting flight times to optimize sleep. Soon, athletes will be able to access sleep stats on a mobile app and receive updates to help them schedule rest.
"We're going to start to get really granular on this as it pertains to an athlete's competition," he says. "Sleep is the foundation for health and performance, and we're trying to get these athletes two or three per cent better."
By: Morgan Campbell Staff Reporter, Published on Sun Mar 27 2016 www.thestar.com


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BEIJING, March 28, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- VisionChina Media Inc. ("VisionChina Media" or the "Company") (Nasdaq: VISN), one of China's largest out-of-home digital television advertising networks on mass transportation systems, today announced the renewal of an exclusive contract to continue operations of the Company's mobile digital television advertising network in Wuhan, the capital city of China's Hubei Province.
The new contract is effective from April 1, 2014 to December 31, 2018 and provides that the Company will continue to operate the digital mobile television advertising on buses in the city of Wuhan as an exclusive operator for international and national advertising placement, which accounts for more than 90% of total advertising revenue in the Wuhan market. The rearrangement will result in a reduction in the company's media costs in Wuhan associated with the agreement of 46.7% year over year, with no decrease in anticipated revenue.
"This contract extension creates a more favorable cost structure for us and is the result of our ongoing media resource optimization initiatives," said Mr. Limin Li, VisionChina Media's chairman and chief executive officer. "Under the new agreement, we will be able to optimize our advertising inventory and enhance our operating leverage while supporting our current revenue growth trajectory. We will continue to pursue our proven cost-control strategy to solidify a more competitive cost structure, while improving gross margin and operating efficiency in the long term."
According to the Wuhan Bureau of Statistics, in 2013 Wuhan ranked ninth in terms of GDP among all cities in China with a total GDP of RMB 900 billion, or approximately US$145 billion. The city has a population of over 10 million residents.
About VisionChina Media Inc.
VisionChina Media Inc. (Nasdaq: VISN) operates an out-of-home advertising network on mass transportation systems, including buses and subways. As of December 31, 2013, VisionChina Media's advertising network included 111,163 digital television displays on mass transportation systems in 19 of China's economically prosperous cities, including Beijing, Guangzhou and Shenzhen, as secured by exclusive agency agreements or joint venture contract. VisionChina Media has the ability to deliver real-time, location-specific broadcasting, including news, stock quotes, weather and traffic reports, and other entertainment programming. For more information, please visit http://www.visionchina.cn.
Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements constitute "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will", "expects", "anticipates", "future", "intends", "plans", "believes", "estimates" and similar statements. Among other things, the quotations from management in this press release contain forward-looking statements. Such statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its registration statement on Form F-1 and its annual report on Form 20-F. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable law.
For investor and media inquiries, please contact:
In China:
Ms. Shuning Yi
Investor Relations Department
VisionChina Media Inc.
Tel: +86-134-2090-9426
Email: email@example.com
Mr. Colin Wang
Investor Relations Director
VisionChina Media Inc.
Tel: +86 135-1001-0107
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
In the United States:
Mr. Justin Knapp
Ogilvy Financial, U.S.
Tel: +1-616-551-9714
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com


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History of the Accutane Depression Controversy
Lasting side effects from pharmaceuticals › Forums › Group Forums › Accutane › Accutane News, History, and Awareness Initiatives › History of the Accutane Depression Controversy
Tagged: Accutane, Depression, Isotretinoin, Roaccutane, Suicide
- This topic has 0 replies, 1 voice, and was last updated 5 years, 9 months ago by dubya_b.
January 7, 2015 at 3:04 am #966dubya_bKeymaster
Accutane/Isotretinoin and Depression:
Mechanism of action still unknown, mechanism of adverse effects still unknown.
-The FDA approved Accutane to treat severe acne that is unresponsive to other treatments.
-One of the original discoverers of isotretinoin's efficacy in treating acne, Dr. Frank Yoder, sent a warning of its potential dangers.
"I wish to express my concern and anxiety over the potential tragedy that might arise from abuse
and misuse of Accutane…the potential toxicity of this drug has been seriously under-
F. W. Yoder, "Isotretinoin: A Word of Caution," JAMA: The Journal of the American Medical Association, vol. 249, no. 3, p. 350, Jan. 1983.
-The fact that symptoms of depression had been reported was included in the Accutane package insert.
The consumer advocacy group, Public Citizen, called for Accutane to be banned.
-The FDA forced Roche to include a warning that some users have reported adverse reactions including depression, psychosis, and "rarely, suicidal ideation, suicide attempts and suicide."
Roche did not adhere to this requirement until 2002.
-After two decades of controversy over the link between Accutane and depression, birth defects, and severe psychological side effects associated with the drug, a congressional hearing to review Accutane's safety was held.
A transcript can be found here: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CHRG-106hhrg73924/content-detail.html
-On May 14, 2000, former Congressman Bart Stupak's son committed suicide towards the end of his course of Accutane. This prompted a second hearing in 2002.
-During the second Congressional hearing, Hoffman La-Roche executives were questioned as to why the company withheld knowledge indicating the likelihood of Accutane to cause depressive symptoms.
A video of the hearing: http://www.c-span.org/video/?174192-3/safety-accutane
-Former FDA doctor, David Graham, says Accutane represents a "regulatory failure" and that "sales should be restricted immediately" during a Senate hearing regarding the FDA's ability to safeguard the public.
-The Alliance for Human Research Protection asked Keith Altman, Adverse Drug Reaction Statistics Analyst, to analyze FDA's Medwatch database for drug-linked suicides by children under 18 years of age. He found that between 1989 and June 2003, there were 216 reported drug-linked suicides in under 18 year olds. Of these, 72 suicides were linked to Accutane. The next highest number of suicides – 55–involved Prozac. Considering MedWatch reflects approximately 1% of actual adverse drug events, 72 Accutane suicide reports represent 7,200 suicides, and 55 Prozac-related suicide reports represent 5,500 suicides.
-The iPLEDGE program was implemented with a focus on educating women of the high risk of severe birth defects which isotretinoin is capable of causing. Today, there is scant evidence that the program is being enforced.
-Roche withdrew brand name Accutane from the U.S. market while under heavy fire from personal injury lawsuits.
-A journal –published review of the available scientific evidence and adverse event reports found a high likelihood of a causal link between isotretinoin treatment and psychological adverse events. The authors determined an extremely high correlation between isotretinoin and depression compared to alternative prescription acne treatments and noted that isotretinoin is the only non-psychotropic drug in the FDA's top ten list of drugs associated with depression.
V. P. Kontaxakis, D. Skourides, P. Ferentinos, B. J. Havaki-Kontaxaki, and G. N. Papadimitriou, "Isotretinoin and psychopathology: a review," Annals of General Psychiatry, vol. 8, p. 2, 2009.
After sudden and sometimes permanent side effects of isotretinoin (sold in parts of Europe as Roaccutane) were described by the victim or victim's family as the sole factor in many instances of suicide, members of British Parliament called for "rigorous up-to-date research to ascertain why some groups of patients are more vulnerable to its severe side effects than others."
It is common knowledge that Accutane / isotretinoin continues to be routinely prescribed to treat mild and moderate acne, contrary to the supposed tight FDA-imposed restriction that it only be an option in the most severe cases of acne.
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.


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If IP routing is enabled, which two commands set the gateway of last resort to the default gateway? (Choose two.)
A. ip default-gateway 0.0.0.0
B. ip route 172.16.2.1 0.0.0.0 0.0.0.0
C. ip default-network 0.0.0.0
D. ip default-route 0.0.0.0 0.0.0.0 172.16.2.1
E. ip route 0.0.0.0 0.0.0.0 172.16.2.1
Correct Answer: CE
Which parameter would you tune to affect the selection of a static route as a backup, when a dynamic protocol is also being used?
A. hop count
B. administrative distance
C. link bandwidth
D. link delay
E. link cost
Correct Answer: B
Refer to the exhibit.
A network associate has configured OSPF with the command:
City(config-router)# network 192.168.12.64 0.0.0.63 area 0
After completing the configuration, the associate discovers that not all the interfaces are participating in OSPF. Which three of the interfaces shown in the exhibit will participate in OSPF according to this configuration statement? (Choose three.)
A. FastEthernet0 /0
B. FastEthernet0 /1
C. Serial0/0
D. Serial0/1.102
E. Serial0/1.103
F. Serial0/1.104
Correct Answer: BCD
Refer to the exhibit. The Lakeside Company has the internetwork in the exhibit. The administrator would like to reduce the size of the routing table on the Central router. Which partial routing table entry in the Central router represents a route summary that represents the LANs in Phoenix but no additional subnets?
A. 10.0.0.0/22 is subnetted, 1 subnets
D 10.0.0.0 [90/20514560] via 10.2.0.2, 6w0d, Serial0/1
B. 10.0.0.0/28 is subnetted, 1 subnets
D 10.2.0.0 [90/20514560] via 10.2.0.2, 6w0d, Serial0/1
C. 10.0.0.0/30 is subnetted, 1 subnets
D 10.2.2.0 [90/20514560] via 10.2.0.2, 6w0d, Serial0/1
D. 0.0.0/22 is subnetted, 1 subnets
D 10.4.0.0 [90/20514560] via 10.2.0.2, 6w0d, Serial0/1
E. 10.0.0.0/28 is subnetted, 1 subnets
D 10.4.4.0 [90/20514560] via 10.2.0.2, 6w0d, Serial0/1
F. 10.0.0.0/30 is subnetted, 1 subnets
D 10.4.4.4 [90/20514560] via 10.2.0.2, 6w0d, Serial0/1
Correct Answer: D
Refer to the graphic. A static route to the 10.5.6.0/24 network is to be configured on the HFD router. Which commands will accomplish this? (Choose two.)
A. HFD(config)# ip route 10.5.6.0 0.0.0.255 fa0/0
B. HFD(config)# ip route 10.5.6.0 0.0.0.255 10.5.4.6
C. HFD(config)# ip route 10.5.6.0 255.255.255.0 fa0/0
D. HFD(config)# ip route 10.5.6.0 255.255.255.0 10.5.4.6
E. HFD(config)# ip route 10.5.4.6 0.0.0.255 10.5.6.0
F. HFD(config)# ip route 10.5.4.6 255.255.255.0 10.5.6.0
Correct Answer: CD
Before installing a new, upgraded version of the IOS, what should be checked on the router, and which command should be used to gather this information? (Choose two.)
A. the amount of available ROM
B. the amount of available flash and RAM memory
C. the version of the bootstrap software present on the router
D. show version
E. show processes
F. show running-config
Correct Answer: BD
Which command reveals the last method used to powercycle a router?
A. show reload
B. show boot
C. show running-config
D. show version
Correct Answer: D
Which command would you use on a Cisco router to verify the Layer 3 path to a host?
A. tracert address
B. traceroute address
C. telnet address
D. ssh address
Correct Answer: B
What information does a router running a link-state protocol use to build and maintain its topological database? (Choose two.)
A. hello packets
B. SAP messages sent by other routers
C. LSAs from other routers
D. beacons received on point-to-point links
E. routing tables received from other link-state routers
F. TTL packets from designated routers
Correct Answer: AC
Which statements describe the routing protocol OSPF? (Choose three.)
A. It supports VLSM.
B. It is used to route between autonomous systems.
C. It confines network instability to one area of the network.
D. It increases routing overhead on the network.
E. It allows extensive control of routing updates.
F. It is simpler to configure than RIP v2.
Correct Answer: ACE
Download Latest CCNA 200-120 Real Free Tests , help you to pass exam 100%.


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List of Future PS4 Reveals Leaked: The Last Guardian, Gran Turismo 7 Prologue and More
Industry Insider Ahsan Rasheed, also known as Thuway, is on a roll today, and had a second serving of juicy leaks from his sources to share, focused on Sony's future reveals that we can look forward to in the upcoming months leading to E3:
Whatever is happening behind the scenes, it's got people excited.
Things to look forward to:
- Drive Club updated footage
- PS4 VR + SSM [Sony Santa Monica] New IP
- UC 4 [Uncharted 4]
- Guerilla new IP
- The Last Guardian
And yes, UC4 was posted twice on purpose.
The future for PS4 🙂 oh so good.
GT7 Prologue was left out intentionally.
OK I'm gonna get angry pms now :(, but thats all I'll say.
If Rasheed is really going to get angry private messages, they won't be from me. All the options he mentioned are definitely quite exciting, especially due to my personal favorite of the list, The Last Guardian. I'm normally not too much of a fan of "prologue" games, but with Gran Turismo (and Metal Gear Solid) I'll make an exception.
As usual with everything shared by insiders like Rasheed, and I'll never repeat this enough, we should take the information provided with a sizable pinch of salt track record notwithstanding, but seriously, what's not to love?


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I Love Autumn~
I love Autumn! Here in blogland, we run on a schedule that necessarily hurries us through the holidays. I get that. We are idea-sharers and in order to get holiday ideas out in time for them to be useful for our readers, we need to start early. But sometimes I feel like I miss out on the beauty of each season because I'm constantly having to think ahead.
|This was the view from our house in New England...Nothing compares to the fall colors there!
Autumn is my absolute favorite season. I love everything about it. I love overcast days. I love the cooler temperatures. I love sweaters and blankets. I love Thanksgiving.
I love the anticipation of the first snowfall.
Read more after the break...
So today, before I jump into posts about Christmas, I want to take a minute to dwell on the
amazing-ness that is Autumn.
I love the fact that we have a holiday dedicated entirely to gratitude. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite days of the year. Simply to spend time with my family and think about our blessings...what could be better?
I turned the heat on in the house this past week. I also pulled out the space heater. I added my faux fur throws to the sofa in the living room and to my master bedroom. Everything is starting to feel so cozy! Hooray for fall!!
Take a minute this week and revel in autumn. After all, it only comes once a year.


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Roomies Suite Penang, Family Room is the same as ZEN Rooms Eden Parade USD 28.95 per night Jalan Sungai Emas, Penang 11100, Malaysia Jalan Sungai Emas, Penang 11100, Malaysia
Available Add-ons
- 24h Front Desk
- Air Conditioning
- Cable TV Channel
- Coffee & Tea
- Flat Screen TV
- Free WiFi
- Hair Dryer
- Hot Shower
- In-Room Safe
- Ironing Facilities
- Kettle
- Non Smoking Room
- Parking
- Study Desk
- Telephone in Room
- Window in The Room
- Room Size: 16m2
This hotel has been audited within the last 3 weeks
Located at Penang "Pearl of the Orient", known for 'its rich heritage and architecture', Roomies Suite Penang is perfect for business & leisure travelers.
There is no shortage of things to do or food to try within the vicinity of Roomies Suite Penang. Within short distance from the property are attractions and restaurants travelers can enjoy.
Long Beach Cafe (500 m)
Spice Market Cafe (750 m)
Danish Biryani House (64 m)
Golden River Restaurant (200 m)
Eden Parade (3 m)
Batu Feringghi Night Market (850 m)
Batu Ferringhi Beach (1.4 km)
CIMB ATM (36 m)
Petronas (240 m)
Feringgi Pharmacy (55 m)
7-Eleven (110 m)
Roomies Suite Penang is close to major transportation hubs. It is a 51-minute drive to Penang International Airport. and 3 - minute drive to Popular Ferringhi Bus Station
Comfortable stay is guaranteed with quality rooms & great service at affordable prices.
ZEN ROOMS: travel more, pay less!
- One child under 6 years can stay for free using existing beds.
- Extra bed can be provided at MYR 30. Subject to availability at the time of check in.
- Free private parking is available on the site! Subject to availability at the time of check in.
- A tourist tax of MYR 10 per room per night is applied to all foreign guests. This tax is not included in the room rate and must be paid upon check-in. Guests with a valid Malaysian ID or valid MY PR Card are exempted.
- Additional charge of MYR 2 (Penang Tax) will be collected upon check in.


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About NADSP
NADSP's Vision:
A world with a highly qualified and professional direct support workforce that partners with, supports and empowers people with disabilities to lead a life of their choosing.
NADSP's Mission:
To elevate the status of direct support professionals by improving practice standards, promoting system reform, and advancing their knowledge, skills and values.
NADSP's Values:
NADSP values the full participation of people with disabilities in all aspects of community life through the provision of person-centered supports. We believe that high quality support requires all professionals to follow the individual path suggested by the unique gifts, preferences, and needs of each person they support, and to walk in partnership with the person, and those who love him or her, toward a life of opportunity, well-being, freedom, and contribution.
NADSP's Operating Principles:
NADSP is guided by a belief that:
- All direct support professionals benefit from access to well-constructed educational experiences (e.g., in-service training, continuing and higher education) and lifelong learning;
- Certifying highly qualified workers incentivizes continuing education, increased compensation, and access to career pathways for direct support professionals thereby improving retention;
- Values and ethical decision making can be learned and infused into daily practice; and
- Strengthening relationships and partnerships between direct support professionals, self-advocates, and other consumer groups and families improves the quality of support.
Formally adopted by the board of directors, January, 2017.


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Hickory Park Furniture
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Emilia 3 Drawer Nightstand
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This weekend, I attended two weddings. Yes. Two. And although I spent Monday driving, finishing homework, and not sleeping, I still had time to come up with some tips for y'all.
Ladies, hold onto the man that…
Dances with you– classy-like. Swing dancing, ballroom dancing… it's amazing.
Sneaks into the place where your car was accidentally locked in to get your things.
Does the above item in the pouring rain.
Holds your hand.
Will put up with your obessession with eggs benedict– including listening intently to you and your friends' idea of traveling cross-country on an EB tour.
Wears the shirt you got him. Yes, the one with Benny the Beaver on it.
Compliments you, challenges you, and brings a smile to your face when you're walking to class just because you thought of him.
It's been said before, but sometimes we ladies expect the world (which is fine). But sometimes we forget to love the little things in life that make up our world. Think about what you've got, and hold onto that.
That's all for tonight– except for a, "Hello again, bloggy readers." 🙂


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From NECRATJump to navigationJump to search
|This page is ending, going away mid 2019. My page documenting all the Stewart's Shops I have visited in New York.
this page has not affiliated to the Stewart's Shops chain.
|Searsburg Wind Farm
|Back several years ago now, I photographed the Searsburg, VT Windfarm. I've seen more impressive wind farms now, however I will keep this page up.
|A tribute page to the mighty Mahaiwe Theater in Great Barrington, MA. The place where I got my first job, and the historical theater. If you love old theater, this is a good example.
|Lists of Gamewell Fire Alarm Box locations and other miscellaneous information.


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Welcome to the second installment of Presenting Dark Horse! First, I'd like to give a hearty hello to my new readers, who are surely eager to learn more about this esteemed comics publisher (if you need a quick introduction, check out my first post). Second, here's a special shoutout to all the poor souls I've managed to lure back with my long, excited rants and totally charming humor. It will be my absolute pleasure to try and make this column accessible, useful and fun for you all!
Overall, the comics industry has been transitioning from a frantic summer of major cons and breaking news to a more even keeled fall season. Things at Dark Horse were rather low key throughout August; on one hand, great comic books either just began or finally reached their series end, and promising debuts were being teased for the very near future. But at the same time, there were no really significant announcements on par with the Berger Books preview or the several new TV shows on the horizon from the publisher's entertainment branch. I was actually a bit worried that this month's column would be too sparse of interesting content…
And then everything changed when the Hellboy reboot casting decisions started rolling in.
But before we get to that, upwards and onwards to the latest Dark Horse Comics news!
New Comic Reviews
Gems of the Month
The Legend of Korra: Turf Wars Part One by Michael Dante DiMartino, Irene Koh and Vivian Ng
As much as I adore Avatar: the Last Airbender – and I boast a serious adoration of the series, punctuated by capitalist merchandise worship and a brief academic foray into animation – there's always been something about The Legend of Korra spinoff that really resonated with me.
I was pretty close in age to the Krew when the show first premiered, and I strongly identified with their growing pains as young adults trying to chart the course of their lives in an uncaring urban sprawl. Most significantly, Korra herself served as a rare fictional mirror through which I saw my own experiences as a queer woman of color reflected back to me. Following her journey from a wondrously headstrong Avatar in Training to a proud young leader and the savior of Republic City was an affirming experience for me, and my sentimental connection to the series is something that I don't think I'll ever be able to articulate with the proper amount of respect it deserves.
So, it probably goes without saying that I ascended to a higher plane of existence when I heard about the novelized continuation of the series during last year's New York Comic Con. Since two of my fellow WWAC writers have already discussed the first Turf Wars book at length, I won't sing its many praises too extensively here. At the very least, I will say that it shines as a reintroduction to this fantasy universe. It almost goes without saying that DiMartino's unparalleled knowledge as a co-creator enriches the plot of Turf Wars by further delving into the bender/nonbender cultural issues and socioeconomic tension first introduced on the show. Koh and Ng's stunning artwork collaboration then eases you into the familiar setting with their near perfect replication of the show's animation, while the subtle uniqueness of their individual styles gently clues you in that things are not quite what you remember them to be.
And the biggest change from the show is, of course, the explicit confirmation of Korra and Asami's feelings for one another. Their interactions throughout Turf Wars radiate with a sweet and nervous tenderness that perfectly captures their budding romance. It's interesting to see how they reorient themselves into their social circles following their revelatory trip to the Spirit World, especially as DiMartino provides a more inclusive look at the Avatar mythos and this world's various expressions of and opinions about human sexuality.
Of course, I would have liked to see more time dedicated to these new interpersonal dynamics, and there certainly needs to be a deeper examination of the still somewhat underdeveloped political and social affairs around the city. But for now I am pretty pleased with the promised direction of this three-part series. It truly feels like a natural expansion of the cartoon, with a distinct maturation in writing and style that successfully guides longtime fans into the next chapter of this story.
Lady Killer by Joëlle Jones (Vol. 1 also by Jamie S. Rich and Laura Allred; Vol. 2 also by Michelle Madsen)
No matter how occasionally I stray towards light-hearted material, in my heart of hearts I truly am a sucker for dark stories – give me blood, give me horror, give me intense excursions into the unknowable abyss that lurks within the human heart. Throw in some espionage, historical intrigue, and a killer aesthetic reminiscent of the hottest fashion trends from the 1960s, and I'll probably melt to the floor from sheer happiness.
Basically, give me Lady Killer.
With a tagline boasting "Betty Draper meets Hannibal," this series follows a contract assassin named Josie as she juggles her career aspirations with her cover life as a stereotypical housewife. Its simple premise never fully rises to the expectations promised by its marketing, which was at first disappointing for this closeted fannibal, but Lady Killer is not the type of series that needs extensive philosophical ruminations on human nature. Instead, readers are treated with a trope heavy dark comedy that revels in such wacky situations like our protagonist trying to make a nice family meal while a) entertaining the kids, b) soothing her husband's corporate woes, c) hiding a body stuffed in the freezer, and d) trying to ignore her rakish handler lurking just outside her home with a new assignment in one hand and some lewd comment poised on the tip of his tongue.
At the same time, Jones cleverly threads more complex themes into this seemingly casual romp. The time period is fertile ground for examining gender roles and the sexism that women face throughout their lives. That unfortunately timeless question of, "Can women really have it all?" haunts Josie despite her flawless track record in a field dominated by men and her perfect, unquestioning appeasement to the fantasy of domestic bliss for her conservative family and friends at home. In neither arena does she receive the respect she deserves and, while she is clearly hurt by the circumstances around her, time and again Josie triumphs above these challenges to carve out the trajectory of her life on her own terms. These battles are bitter and at times barely won, but it's always refreshing to see fictional women who are given a lavish gamut of opportunities and then refuse to compromise on her desire to yes, goddammit have as much or as little of it as she chooses.
This theme is stunningly rendered thanks to the artists behind the two volumes, whose unique styles demonstrate their powerhouse influences on the comic's creative direction. Allred brings early 60s' sensibilities to Lady Killer's first volume, which serves as an appropriate introduction to Josie's early navigation of her double life and preference for the hearth. By volume 2, Madsen brings a slicker look to the series that represents a new era of women on the move, going to work, fighting for their rights and wearing pants of all things. This of course corresponds with Josie's desire to hit the assassin scene as an independent woman, now more dedicated to really making a name for herself in her career. While there is a notable difference in style between the volumes, thankfully both artists hold a mutual love for excessive amounts of blood and gore. Here, that Hannibal comparison is apt and awesome. Contextually, it's a sign that in this primal activity Josie is truly free and in a realm that she can control. Its larger societal implications suggest the brutal lengths women are willing to go through to ensure their survival.
Special Comic Preview
Lifeformed: Cleo Makes Contact by Matt Mair Lowery and Cassie Anderson
Here's a treat for you, my dear column readers: a preview for a new comic coming out this month!
I had the opportunity to review this charming debut prior to its publication, which is incredibly fortunate as I've been counting down the release since the comic was first announced back in February. Typically, I'm all about extolling the virtues of patience and delayed gratification when it comes to the comics industry; it's hard enough as it is for creative teams to meet monthly deadlines for single issues, let alone a fully fleshed out and multichapter comic. This time, however, my anxious excitement could not be tamed because Lifeformed promised nearly all of my favorite science fiction tropes – alien invasions! Found families! An anthropological deep dive into an alien culture! And, dearest to my heart, a kickass young girl maturing in the face of all this adversity.
To paint a more linear picture, the comic opens with the everyday life of the titular Cleo, whose biggest problems throughout a typical day include preparing to do a research presentation in front of her class and trying to articulate her pubescent angst about growing up with her loving goofball of a father. Unfortunately, this relatable normalcy is short-lived. A shapeshifting alien species invades Earth, and in the devastation Cleo's father is killed trying to protect her. To make matters worse–and honestly, at that point I really thought nothing could be worse than Anderson's wondrously brutal depiction of his death and Cleo's immediate, heart wrenching response–an alien rebelling against his invading comrades quickly adopts her father's physical form and somewhat convinces Cleo to join forces in order to save the world.
Stories that deal with such intense, apocalyptic nightmare scenarios must navigate a fine line between readers' expectations of realistic horror and outright melodrama. Thanks to the wealth of similar content available, there's a formula behind the fictional invasion narrative that proves popular to readers due to its familiarity: survivors narrowly escape the first wave of chaos, try to find shelter and supplies, fight and bond with one another, and ultimately face off against the invading forces. At the same time, these narratives succeed when they surprise readers with new examples of emotional poignancy and the exploration of humanity as it fights for survival. When done well, we get seminal works like The Last of Us or the better adaptations of War of the Worlds. On the other end of the spectrum, we get the Sharknado franchise or any given M. Night Shyamalan film after The Sixth Sense.
Lifeformed falls much closer to the former category than the latter. It does not stray far from the aforementioned formula and, while the comic had more than enough bandwidth to take a few risks in its plot, its structural simplicity does allow Lifeformed's creative team the freedom to focus almost exclusively on the development of Cleo and her new companion. Interwoven into the action are numerous insightful scenes from Mair Lowery that depict Cleo's life before and after the invasion, from cracking jokes with her father over dinner to scavenging for food in a devastated city riddled with monsters. Through this juxtaposition Mair Lowery allows his young protagonist to engage in a refreshingly wide range of emotional responses as she comes to terms with her fresh losses. Anderson's art is greatly employed in these instances, as Cleo's brightly colored home of pinks and greens descends to a grittier reality of muted blacks, browns and greys. Her work is especially powerful when it is the sole method used to convey Cleo's grief, fears, and frustrations, and all the little ways she tries to reestablish an old sense of normalcy in her new life. There's a clever little trick where, for each chapter cover, we see the steady acquisition of Cleo's favorite colors and childhood objects that she then uses to quietly decorate her survival backpack.
Meanwhile, I was also impressed with the character work that went into the alien now posing as Cleo's father. Viewed from Cleo's perspective, Mair Lowery skillfully balances the humor of teaching an alien how to dress like a human with the horror of being constantly reminded that this invading lifeform is really not Cleo's father, but may play that role for the rest of her life. Anderson also helps to cement this difference in the subtly drawn physical mannerisms that mark Cleo's father and her alien companion as two completely different people. As a concept this companion is utterly frightening, but its curiosity in human nature and its steadfast belief in an equitable society for all lifeforms are endearing enough traits to somewhat defang the severe existential crisis it represents. I didn't know I needed a dorky alien warrior dedicated to intergalactic social justice, but I'm 100% here for it.
In the end, I'm happy to report that the wait for Lifeformed was so worth it. Not only is it an emotionally gripping debut in its own right, but it is also a fine example of the sci-fi genre's most beloved themes of choice, courage and the similarities that connect us despite a galaxy of differences. This new comic comes highly recommended, and I can't wait to see what these two incredibly talented creators have in store for their readers in the future.
Lifeformed will be released on September 13, 2017.
When casual comic fans think of Dark Horse, one of the first things often and rightfully mentioned is the Hellboy series by Mike Mignola. As one of its earliest creator-owned comics, Hellboy's 1994 premiere in Dark Horse Presents doubtlessly helped the comics publisher embrace the mix of independent and licensed content that we enjoy today. In consideration of its own creative ambitions, Hellboy is a multimedia franchise whose expansive mythology spreads across its insular comic series, the entire Dark Horse content library, several cinematic endeavors, television show guest appearances, a few video games and more crossovers in Marvel and DC's individual multimedia properties than even I can keep up with at this point.
Basically, Hellboy is nothing short of a comic industry darling. As a result of its extreme popularity, any attempt to bring this mythos to a wider mainstream audience has one simple, but important, maxim to remember for the sake of longtime fans and newer viewers: do not fuck it up.
And at first, all seemed to be going pretty well for the current Hellboy cinematic reboot. With a potential 2018 release, the first few months of August welcomed awesome casting news. We learned that Stranger Things actor David Harbour will portray the titular demon alongside such seasoned actors as American God's Ian McShane, cast as Hellboy's adoptive father, and the undisputed sci-fi queen Milla Jovovich who will serve as the fillm's villainous sorceress. For one brief and shining moment, the reboot seemed destined to bring a fantastic version of the Hellboy franchise to film that greatly adheres to its source material.
Then, everything seemed to derail on the Day of Black Sun (and that's the last Avatar: the Last Airbender/eclipse joke you'll need to suffer through until the next one in 2024. You are very welcome).
Still, strangely coinciding with this year's total eclipse was the announcement that Deadpool actor Ed Skrein would join the Hellboy reboot as a side character known as Major Ben Daimio. The problem with this casting is that Daimio is Japanese-American in the comics, and Skrein does not share this identity as he is of English and half Jewish-Austrian descent.
So Hellboy became marred in controversy amid rightful accusations of whitewashing and the erasure of the few well-known Asian characters that currently exist in American fiction and film. It's an especially exhausting situation considering the recent insults of this nature which include Scarlett Johansson's Ghost in the Shell, Netflix's Death Note adaptation, Marvel's Doctor Strange and too many other examples from the past year alone to name. At a time when industry gatekeepers will think up any type of bullshit to prevent the depiction of Asian stories in mainstream media, and thus block Asian actors from their rightful places in the cinematic spotlight, watching Hellboy descend into the illogical madness of this blatant racism is disappointing to say the least.
Yet, this story has a surprise – and hopefully happier – ending. After listening to fans' outrage over this whitewashed casting decision, Skrein stepped down from the role and expressed his sincerest apologies about his ignorance of the source material and the offense he inadvertently caused. In his official statement below, he also acknowledges the importance of marginalized representation in the media and his dedication to promoting diversity in the Arts:
Hellboy producers Lloyd Levin and Larry Gordon followed up with their own statement a few days later, and promised to actually look for a more culturally suitable actor for this role:
"Ed came to us and felt very strongly about this. We fully support his unselfish decision. It was not our intent to be insensitive to issues of authenticity and ethnicity, and we will look to recast the part with an actor more consistent with the character in the source material."
Given how quick actors and executives have been to stubbornly defend their casting mistakes in the past, this news does come as a pleasant shock. The fact that it is coming after the backlash is still frustrating, as in a perfect world we wouldn't have to fight to have a character of color accurately represented in their fictional portrayals in the first place, but it may perhaps suggest a shift in mainstream opinion about the necessity of marginalized representation in our media. For now, as always, just avoid the comment sections and bask in the glory of change.
Here's hoping that Hellboy will continue to correct its mistakes and respect the rich source material that will ensure its cinematic success.
And Coming Next Month…
It's time for New York Comic Con, baby! After agonizing over a potential press application and letting that deadline pass me by like a thief in the night, I'm attending as a civilian ready to fangirl to my heart's content with the rest of the geeky pop culture scene. As always, Dark Horse is pulling out all the stops with several different panels at this con, including a live introduction to its Berger Books imprint, a discussion on the art and written craft behind comic books, and an in-depth exploration of the Avatar: The Last Airbender universe. If you're also attending, you'll be able to find me in the front row of every single Dark Horse panel, possibly grinning like a fool. Otherwise, you'll get to read about my adventures in the next column.
There's also some pretty cool book collections being released throughout the rest of September and October. Personally, I've got my eye on the official Overwatch anthology and a Brian K. Vaughan comic inspired by Michael Chabon's The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay, but there are so many other new releases that I can't wait to get my hands on and share with you. So stay tuned!


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Forget Sorrow: An Ancestral Tale
I jumped at the chance to review Forget Sorrow: An Ancestral Tale, an unconventional graphic memoir from writer/artist Belle Yang. While I am no expert on graphic literature, I did devour Marjane Satrapi's Persepolis series. With this medium, I enjoy (and envy) the way an artist can show emotions through inked illustrations, and use words more sparingly. Further, there is an intimacy created on the page, because the typeface and conversational style evoke a personal journal lying on a nightstand.
Yang is a Chinese-American woman, and her story, in part, tells of the identity struggles she experiences in separating from the Chinese traditions of her immigrant parents. When she travels to Beijing for art school, Yang has a chance to learn cultural history while not being bound to it.
At the outset of her tale, we see the source of Yang's title: her Chinese name, Xuan, means "Forget Sorrow." When Yang was thirty years old, she sought shelter from a violent boyfriend by moving back to her parents' home. While there, she began to give shape to her father's childhood stories in Japanese-occupied Manchuria, World War II, and Mao's Great Leap Forward. Yang writes, "I have a voice in America. I won't waste it."
The art in Forget Sorrow is tender, powerful, and moving. One ink illustration that stands out is Yang's nightmare about her abuser, which captures a feeling of stark terror. In contrast, Yang's illustrations also evoke tenderness between father and daughter, a feeling of comfort for him as he shares painful memories.
Yang's story demonstrates ways in which strength comes from relationships. Her father's tales are painful at times. Under communism, family relationships were made subordinate to party affiliation. Important aspects of tradition, such as honoring elders, did not apply if those elders were deemed to be landlords or capitalists. The political side of Yang's family story makes it very clear that social change should not come at the cost of human life or dignity.
Through telling her family's story as well as exercising her voice and her artistic vision in Forget Sorrow, Yang found new freedom. As a writer, artist, and woman, she shapes her own future.


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By AP
Pakistan's prime minister has asked the world community to take notice of Indian moves to change the status of disputed Kashmir, saying Islamabad and New Delhi could go to war if India repeats a military strike inside his country.
Imran Khan says he fears that Kashmiri people, angered over India's decision to strip the region of its special status, could launch an attack on Indian security forces and that New Delhi could blame Pakistan for it. Kashmir is split between India and Pakistan and is claimed by both.
Khan made his remarks Tuesday in a speech to parliament.
In February, a bomb attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir killed 40 Indian troops. India responded with an airstrike inside Pakistan, blaming a Pakistani group for the attack.
Pakistan retaliated and said it shot down two Indian air force planes.
3 p.m.
India's lower house of Parliament was set to ratify a bill Tuesday downgrading the governance of the Indian-administered portion of Muslim-majority Kashmir, as an indefinite security lockdown continued in the disputed Himalayan region.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist government submitted the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Bill for a vote by the Lok Sahba a day after the measure was introduced alongside a presidential order dissolving a constitutional provision that gave Kashmiris exclusive hereditary rights and a separate constitution.
The situation in Kashmir was unclear after the government shut off most communication with it, including internet, cellphone and landline networks. Thousands of troops were deployed to the restive region amid fears the government's steps could spark unrest.
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Students who are studying abroad must document their choice of courses and determine how they will count (humanities, social sciences, major requirements, etc.) with their Academic Advisor. They will use the Program of Study form in their Study Abroad packet for this documentation. Students abroad who are planning on returning to SU for the next semester should also receive advising (usually through electronic communication) so they can register for courses at the regular time.
Study Abroad with Falk College
Explore study opportunities abroad with Falk College. From implementing and evaluating health programs in South Africa to experiencing Mediterranean food, culture and health in Italy, students will have the chance to delve into topics of interest while experiencing cultures across the world.
Mediterranean Food, Culture and Health
Experience one of the most renowned cuisines in the world from a food systems level to dietary patterns and health risks.
Semester: Spring
Location: Syracuse, NY; Florence, Italy
South Africa
Explore techniques and methods for working collaboratively with communities and focus on topics such as participatory planning models, cultural competency, and empowerment.
Semester: Summer
Location: Grahamstown, South Africa
Learn more
South Asian Culture
Explore the South Asian culture; sample and experience the regional and religious diversity of this culture through lectures, films/documentaries, readings, and a cultural immersion trip to India.
Semester: Fall – Short Term
Location: Chennai, India; Mumbai, India; New Delhi, India
Learn more
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Olympic Odyssey
Explore the history of the ancient and modern Olympic Games and their influence on modern sports through first-hand exploration of Olympics sites.
Semester: Summer
Location: Athens, Greece; Lausanne, Switzerland; London, United Kingdom; Paris, France
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Mount col Base Camp
Join a 3-week research and teaching expedition to the foot of the highest mountain on Earth, Mount Everest in Nepal! Learn how the human body responds to high altitudes and participate in research projects.
Semester: Summer
Location: Nepal
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Drug Policy in a Global Perspective
Examine drug policies from around the world, assessing their impact at the regional, state, national, and international levels.
Semester: Summer
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands; Ghent, Belgium
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Topics in Advanced Social Work Practice & Policy
Study comparative social work services in a specific area of human need by visiting human service agencies in France, Germany, and Switzerland in the company of social work students from these three countries.
Semester: Spring
Location: Syracuse, NY; Basel, Switzerland; Freiburg, Germany; Mulhouse, France; Strasbourg, France
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Protect Yourself From Tech Support Scams
Learn More
July 29, 2020
Tech support scams are an industry-wide issue where scammers trick you into paying for unnecessary
technical support services. You can help protect yourself from scammers by verifying that the contact is a
Microsoft Agent or
Microsoft Employee and that the phone number is an
Microsoft global customer service number.
Thank You for Posting your question onto the Microsoft Community.
What I suggest you try and do is Right click on your desktop - select Screen Resolution and make sure that the screen resolution is set to the correct settings. You can learn more about having the correct screen resolution in this Microsoft Based Article,
Also updating Windows To the latest Updates helps resolves issues Included in Windows and help Windows to improve Performance it applies to Any version of Microsoft Windows(R) Operating system. By updating your system you will update the key components
that run windows giving it the latest information/fixes on how to use resources properly, and to find and fix problems within the Windows Based Environment.
To find out more about Windows Update please see this Microsoft Based article (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/Updating-your-computer)
To Update Windows Follow this Microsoft Based Article- (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/products/features/windows-update)
I would advise you that you download and install the direct x 11, this is something to do with your graphics improving the performance and the ftps rate's when playing a game or watching a video. You can learn more by looking at this Microsoft Based Software
Article, (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-GB/windows7/products/features/directx-11)
I hope by explaining about keeping your system up to date and other programs up todate will fix your problem that you are experiencing with Windows. If you have any other problems or questions related to this article, please do not hesitate to post back.
Also Please do not hesitate to create a new question, We are here to help you out and to suit your needs.
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completed the latest windows update and there
still has been no improvement. Im new to Windows 8 ,
especially this new touchscreen laptop. I will look through all
my settings to see if I can change anything.
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You're standing in front of your Family and Friends prepared to make your dreams of a lifetime come true. It's at that moment that you are grateful that you have a professional guiding your ceremony. The Supreme Court has finally ruled upon this issue. Now is the time to plan your perfect LGBT Wedding. I have been performing Commitment Ceremonies since the beginning, and I am so pleased this has opened up for everyone to marry the one they Love. Contact Reverend Jacqui Weiks, Your LGBT Wedding Officiant
We are an open and affirming, multi-racial and multi-cultural, assessable to all, peace and justice oriented body of faith. We go into the community and God's disciples. Grounded by the teachings of Jesus the Christ, we uplift Christ's goodness, create spiritual community, and care for God's people and God's world. Dynamic hope, incredible compassion, extravagant hospitality, and radical love are our core values.
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Addiction Treatment and the Recovery Process By Matt Gonzales, writer and researcher for DrugRehab.com Drug addiction is a chronic disease that affects your physical and mental health, job status and relationships. Once you're hooked on a drug, your whole life revolves around it. Substance use disorders are common in the United States. Heroin use in […]
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Making a Legal Case for Bisexuality Bisexuality is widely misunderstood. Bisexuals are often dismissed or used as a punchline by the straight community and sidelined in conversations about LGBT rights and equality, often while experiencing many of the same struggles and setbacks as the rest of the queer community. And for some–like Ray Fuller, a […]
Olympic Coverage Criticized as Homophobic? One of the most memorable moments of the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio didn't occur during an event. Instead, just after the women's rugby event on Monday night, Brazil's Isadora Cerullo's partner, Marjorie Enya, surprised her with a proposal. As reported by CNN, Enya said in her emotional speech "I […]
Lesbian Foster Moms Struggle to Keep Their Child
In Utah, an ongoing legal battle has erupted between two lesbian foster moms and the state's legal system following the removal of a foster child from the couple's home. Even though the lesbian foster moms, Beckie Pierce and April Hoagland, received approval from the state's child services department to foster and eventually adopt a one-year-old girl, juvenile court judge Scott Johansen ordered the child removed from their home. This set off a firestorm within the LGBT community, especially since the decision was justified through false information and suspected of anti-gay bias.
Lesbian Foster Moms' Ordeal
The case has been widely publicized since it began in August. In the latest development, the child was returned to the lesbian foster moms' home, but there may be another hearing to determine if staying with the lesbian moms–who also have two biological children–is in the "best interest" of the child. There's no indication that Johansen will be removed from the case, however, so the family could be facing an uphill legal battle.
Legal Decision, or Religious Bias?
There has been some speculation that Scott Johansen, who received his law degree from Brigham Young University, made his decision based on religious beliefs, rather than following the law. While this is difficult to prove, Johansen has a less-than-stellar record as a judge, with a judicial conduct committee once reprimanding him for "demeaning the judicial office." Additionally, many of his previous decisions have gained him a negative reputation:
- Eye for an Eye – In an assault case that revolved around a teenager cutting off a toddler's hair, Johansen offered a deal with a highly unusual requirement: the defendant's mother could cut off the teenager's ponytail to reduce her sentence.
- Jail for Minor – In another case, Johansen sent a young boy to jail for stealing a pack of gum, citing the boy's poor grades as a reason for the harsh sentence.
- Public or Else – A third case found Johansen threatening the parents of home-schooled children, saying that their kids might be removed and placed in the foster system if they didn't enroll in Utah public schools.
These controversial–and possibly illegal–decisions aside, Johansen's rationale for removing Pierce and Hoagland's foster child is unconscionable: he stated that research indicated that children perform better when raised by heterosexual couples, a claim that is completely unsubstantiated by any accepted research.
Potential Effects on Lesbian Moms Across the Country
With gay marriage legal across the country, lesbian foster moms like Pierce and Hoagland should have no problem fostering and adopting. They approached the process exactly like any other couple would, including going through screening, interviews, and home visits to ensure that the environment would be health for a child. The lesbian foster moms also contacted the child's biological mother to determine an adoption plan.
According to state agencies, and even the state's governor, the removal of the child from their home is unusual and possibly illegal. The case may be precedent-setting even beyond the results for this particular family, however, with courts across the country determining the adoption rights of same-sex couples:
- Mississippi – In Mississippi, same-sex couples are currently seeking to strike down the state's discriminatory ban on same-sex adoption. This case will soon go to federal court, where judges will decide how the legalization of gay marriage impacts the law.
- Kansas – A Kansas state representative is currently attempting to audit that state's Department for Children and Families to determine whether it discriminates against same-sex couples when making foster and adoption decisions.
- Indiana – In several other states, such as Indiana, lawmakers are trying to introduce bills that would allow religious-affiliated adoption agencies to deny service to LGBT couples based on their beliefs.
The ink is barely dry on the Supreme Court's gay marriage decision, but in these adoption cases, we're already seeing the next battle for LGBT equality. It looks like the LGBT families can win this one, too: if a couple is legally married, shouldn't they have the same rights as a heterosexual couple?
What's Next for Lesbian Foster Moms in Utah?
To many outside observers, Judge Johansen's decision seems not only ill-informed, but completely unethical. Judges' personal beliefs should never enter into a legal decision, and citing non-existent research to justify individual biases seems like an offense that should result in the judge's removal from the case. There's nothing to indicate that the lesbian foster moms in Utah aren't prepared to provide a loving and supportive environment to their foster child, and we can all hope that this case will be resolved in their favor and set the stage for more LGBT couples to foster and adopt in the state and across the country.
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4 Comments
ICC T20 world cup 2016 - March 28, 2016 at 9:29 pm
Hi! This is my 1st comment here so I just wanted to give a quick shout
out and say I really enjoy reading your blog posts. Can you recommend any other blogs/websites/forums that deal
with the same topics? Many thanks!
SGL - April 13, 2016 at 8:41 pm
Hi there, Thanks for your comment. We are tending to delve a bit deeper than a lot of other online LGBT publications. However, LGBTQ Nation and Advocate Mag are both good resources.
MacBHammon - November 15, 2016 at 6:04 am
Thanks for finally talking about >Smart Gay Life Lesbian Foster Moms Struggle to Keep Child <Loved it!
Dana Copeland - March 27, 2017 at 3:00 pm
This is terrifying. The idea that a child could be harmed in this way – by taking her away from her home and her parents for no reason – is tragic. I hope it's resolved soon, and this family can get on with their lives together.


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In today's digital economy, there have never been more opportunities for businesses and their customers to interact. Chat, text, social media, websites, IVR, even traditional phone calls with customer service representatives – the list continues to grow. Modern customer expectations have never been higher, and businesses understand that customer experience is a leading brand differentiator. To ensure that customer needs are met, businesses are prioritizing delivery of a true omnichannel experience, enabling each channel to work together cohesively with seamless transitions. Whether or not they're succeeding in this initiative is something else entirely.
Businesses believe they are delivering on the promise of omnichannel experiences, but this perception doesn't align with those of their customers. According to the NICE inContact CX Transformation Benchmark Study, consumers rated customer service 17 percent lower, on average, across more than 10 channels, than businesses rated their own success in meeting customer needs. This is an alarming discrepancy. While the pressure to provide seamless omnichannel customer experiences is constant, the first step is recognizing that improvements need to be made.
According to the study's findings, here are the primary areas where businesses and their customers aren't seeing eye-to-eye:
As businesses grow smarter in their ability to understand their customers, offering unique, individualized interactions is increasingly important. In fact, of the consumers surveyed, 21 percent rated personalization their top priority. Unfortunately, businesses do not share customer enthusiasm for personalization. Only 13 percent of organizations see it as a high priority for customer service strategies. Instead, businesses are leaning towards offering easy access to information regarding any given issue (24 percent).
Adapting to New Tools
Despite alignment on the value of traditional channels such as agent-assisted phone calls, the research uncovered a disconnect between consumers and businesses in how to best approach new channels, like online chat. The study showed that while 39 percent of consumers placed online chat as one of their most preferred channels of engagement, only 16 percent of businesses echoed that support.
What's Next?
As expectations shift based on new, innovative technologies, businesses will need an agile cloud customer experience platform to enable a truly seamless omnichannel experience. Technology can help companies to fully understand, prepare for, and meet the needs of today's consumers. It can also help businesses close the gap between perception and reality, while staying flexible enough to continuously prepare for the future.
This article originally appeared in Contact Center World, read it in its entirety.