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Ohio man who held 3 women captive hangs himself
CLEVELAND — Residents in the tough Cleveland neighborhood where three women were secretly imprisoned for a decade reacted with scorn and grim satisfaction Wednesday after Ariel Castro hanged himself in his cell barely a month into a life sentence.
"This man couldn't take, for even a month, a small portion of what he had dished out for more than a decade," said Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Tim McGinty.
Castro, 53, was found hanging from a bedsheet Tuesday night at the state prison in Orient, corrections spokeswoman JoEllen Smith said. Prison medical staff performed CPR before Castro was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The coroner's office said it was suicide.
"He took the coward's way out," said Elsie Cintron, who lived up the street from the former school bus driver. "We're sad to hear that he's dead, but at the same time, we're happy he's gone, and now we know he can't ask for an appeal or try for one if he's acting like he's crazy."
As the news sank in, prison officials faced questions about how a high-profile inmate managed to commit suicide in protective custody.
Ohio prisons director Gary Mohr announced a review of Castro's suicide and whether he had received proper medical and mental health care. State police are also investigating.
Through a spokeswoman, Castro's three victims declined to comment.
Castro was sentenced Aug. 1 to life in prison plus 1,000 years after pleading guilty to 937 counts, including kidnapping and rape, in a deal to avoid the death penalty. At his sentencing, he told the judge: "I'm not a monster. I'm sick."
Castro had been in a cell by himself in protective custody, meaning he was checked every 30 minutes, because of fears his notoriety could lead to attacks from other inmates, authorities said.
He was not on a suicide watch, which entails constant supervision, Smith said. She would not say why.
Castro had been on a suicide watch for a few weeks in the Cuyahoga County jail, before he pleaded guilty and was turned over to state authorities, and police said after his arrest that they had found a years-old note in which he talked about suicide.
Authorities at the jail dropped the suicide watch in June after concluding he was unlikely to take his own life.
Castro's captives — Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus and Michelle Knight — disappeared separately between 2002 and 2004, when they were 14, 16 and 20. They were rescued from Castro's run-down house May 6 after Berry broke through a screen door.
Elation over the women's rescue turned to shock as details emerged about their captivity. Castro fathered a child with Berry while she was being held. The girl was 6 when she was freed.
Investigators also disclosed that the women were bound with chains, repeatedly raped and deprived of food and bathroom facilities.
Knight told authorities that Castro impregnated her repeatedly and made her miscarry by starving her and punching her in the belly. Berry said she was forced to give birth in a plastic kiddie pool.
On Castro's old street Wednesday, freshly planted landscaping was in bloom on the site where his house stood before it was demolished by the city a month ago.
Castro "took the easy way out," said James King, who lives down the street. "He knew what he did was wrong, so he killed himself."


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subset: commoncrawl


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How much is a drop of presidential blood worth?
An on-line auction site is hoping to find out by selling a vial that it claims was used to draw President Ronald Reagan's blood while he was recovering from the gunshot wound that nearly killed him in 1981. To top it off, the auction site says, "dried blood residue" is clearly visible inside the vial.
The auction drew the immediate scorn of doctors who treated the president, and the director of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation threatened legal action to stop the sale, calling the auction a "craven act."
"Any individual, including a President of the United States, should feel confident that once they enter into the care of a medical system their privacy and rights are held inviolable," said John Heubusch, executive director of the foundation.
So far, the auction has garnered bids that have topped about $8,000 and ends Thursday. The site, PFC Auctions, is based on the island of Guernsey, an autonomous British protectorate, in the English Channel.
PFC says the vial is being sold on behalf of the son of a deceased woman who worked at a laboratory in Columbia that tested Reagan's blood, which had been drawn while he was treated at George Washington University Hospital.
The lab worker was permitted to keep the vial and its accompanying paperwork by a supervisor at Bio-Science Laboratories, the son wrote in a statement posted on the auction site. The mother kept the vial until her death in 2010. The unidentified man said he contacted the "Ronald Reagan National Library" – he meant the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Library – in Simi Valley, Calif., and was told that the National Archives would accept the vial but not pay for it. "Reagan when he was my Commander in Chief when I was in the ARMY from '87-'91 and that I was a real fan of Reaganomics and felt that Pres. Reagan himself would rather see me sell it rather than donating it," the man wrote on the PFC website.
Reagan was shot by John W. Hinckley Jr. as he left the Washington Hilton Hotel on March 30, 1981, just 70 days into his first term. Badly wounded, the president lost more than half of his blood that day. If not for quick-acting Secret Service agents and hospital personnel, Reagan would have died. A surgeon eventually plucked the bullet just an inch from the president's heart.
Doctors who treated Reagan said they are not surprised that such an item would be auctioned off because physicians, nurses and technicians kept a number of mementos of Reagan's treatment and his 13-day stay at GW. One surgeon hung onto the president's stitches, and nurses slipped away with copies of lab and medical reports. FBI agents spent weeks fruitlessly combing the hospital for Reagan's prized "Golden Bear" cufflinks, which had vanished when his clothes were cut from him in the emergency room. The cufflink was never found, and some medical personnel believe it left the hospital in someone's pocket.
When Dr. David Gens, a chief GW resident in 1981, removed one of Reagan's catheters, he was told by a Secret Service agent that the medical device had to be taken to the White House and destroyed. "Otherwise, the agent said somebody would try to auction it for money," said Gens, now a trauma surgeon at the University of Maryland R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center.
Dr. Joseph Giordano, who was head of the GW trauma team in 1981 and cared for Reagan, said the auction "is outrageous."
"You don't go selling people's specimens or bodily fluids," said Giordano. "You have no permission to do that. It's unethical."
Craig Shirley, who worked on two Reagan campaigns and has authored two books about Reagan, said that the vial belonged to Reagan's wife, Nancy. "It strikes me that somebody's personal privacy has been violated and some law has been broken," he said.
Short of a DNA test of the residue inside the vial, it may be impossible to know if the artifact is legitimate. But it is labeled with the same patient identification number as other medical records that I reviewed in reporting my book — Rawhide Down — about the assassination attempt.
However, at least one of those medical records turned out to be a forgery. In reporting the book, I obtained an anesthesia record that I later determined was a fake. After tracking down the original record, I discovered that both documents contained the same — and accurate — data. But the forgery was written in neater handwriting. It seems that nurses are notoriously sloppy when taking notes in operating rooms, and nurses and doctors told me they believe someone recreated a neater record to take home as a souvenir.
By Del Quentin Wilber | 05:00 AM ET, 05/22/2012


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Love heals everything
[img]http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c162/GothicGeisha/Bella-Swan-as-a-vampire-bella-swan-.jpg[/img] Edward has left Bella and Jacob is ignoring her.Victoria comes back for revenge.Then her cousin reveals that her own family is destroyed.When she dedicates her life to saving others,she never realizes that she have a brush with her past which will further complicate her life.
I found this awesome photo and loved it.But will someone make a better banner for me.Puhlease................................................
1. The beginning of my End
Rating 4.5/5 Word Count 644 Review this Chapter
Bella's point of view.
How could he say that to me.Now,I know that I am a total reject.The tears were sparkling in my cheeks. I could feel his words ripping me again and again.Jacob was my only friend.His presence comforted me.Now even he ignored her,life was turning into hell.With great courage I walked to the meadow where Edward had revealed his true self.
He haunted her dreams and every moment without him tormented me.The meadow looked beautiful in the moonlight.I sat down near the woods and begin crying my heart out.I was caught unaware when a cold hand touched me,it sent shivers through my body.I turned to look at Victoria whose face was filled with grimace.
"Ah!I never thought I could get you so easily.You practically walked into my arms.Today I will take my revenge."
"Re...venge.Revenge for what?"
"James was my mate and Edward who was your mate killed him.Do you think I will forgive both of you easily? If so then, you are wrong."
"I am not Edward's mate.He left me."I sobbed.
"Oh,did he? Don't you know that our kind has the gift of learning about each others' mates and I am sure he was yours."
She tied my wrists and put me on her back.She carried me to Charlie's house.She pulled me to his room where I had left him sleeping without peace as I knew because of me.
"This is my plan.First,I torment you by killing your father before your eyes and then I torment your mate by taping the way your face looks when you are killed."
I shrieked when she revealed this horrible plan.Now I knew one thing before I died that Edward loved me.But it was the last thing I was going to know as I was going to lose everything now.I saw the horrible sight as she killed my father with great happiness.Then she started advancing towards me.First she put on a video camera then positioned herself behind my neck.
"This is for you Edward."
She said that and bit me.The pain was killing me and I retreated towards the back of my mind.It seemed to work as I couldn't feel anything else after that and my eyes were closing. I could hear a unfamiliar voice.
"I hope that she will be alright.Jesse,what do you feel? She is my cousin after all.I don't regret killing that bitch who destroyed her family."
I opened my eyes and saw a girl who was almost 19 staring at me with concern.A hottie was standing next to her.His arm wrapped around her waist.She asked me whether I was alright.
"Who are you?How did you save me?And where am I?"
She answered all my questions one after the other.
"Slow down Bella, if I may call you that. I am Suzanne, Suze for you and this is my husband Jesse Silvia.We had come to Forks to deliver some news to you.I was sent by my mother who is a cousin of Renee your mother.We arrived in time to pull that bitch off you but she bit both of us and we all are vampires now.I am a mediator which means I can see ghosts.So to save you I had to take you to Shadowland.The important news is that Renee is dead and you have to attend the funeral."
"No..."I shrieked.I ran now that I was a vampire I was really fast.I stopped and saw where I was and saw that I had subconsciously returned to the Cullen house.I had lost everything.There was no will to live in me.I had no reason to live.Everything I loved was snatched-my mom ;my dad ; Jake ,my best friend and Edward,the love of my life my only reason to live.I sobbed and sobbed but no tears came.I didn't know where to go.I didn't know what to do.Maybe I could ask my cousin to kill me.Yes,that is a good idea and I started walking back.
- Author
- Sandroline
- Rating
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- 02 Mar 09
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- 08 Mar 09
- Status
- In Progress


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The new Congress was elected by promising things to voters, but now in office they are doing different things. It is as if they said what they needed to say to get votes, but had a plan to do something else all along. The big question on everyone's mind: where is the job creation effort they promised? What is the plan?
After winning the midterms by running against Democrats for not creating enough jobs fast enough, Republicans are in charge of the House. So what are they doing? Well, not much on creating jobs — that's for sure.
What Are They Working On?
First, the House passed H.R. 2, called the "Repealing the Job-Killing Health Care Law Act." The repeal of the bill protecting citizens from predatory insurance companies now goes to the Senate, and if it passes the Senate it goes to the president for signing. This was the top priority of the new Congress, and no matter what they call the bill, it does not create any jobs.
According to the Library of Congress' Thomas database, the House is now working on the following bills, in order:
- H.R. 3: Taxpayer Funding For Abortion Act.
- H.R. 4: Companies don't have to report payments of $600 or more to the IRS…
- H.R. 5: Medical Tort reform – make it difficult or impossible for injured patients to sue for damages, can't collect more than $250,000, no matter what harm the hospital does…
- H.R. 10: Prevent the executive branch from issuing any regulations…
- H.R. 22: Pipeline Safety and Community Empowerment Act of 2011.
- H.R. 25: Repeal the income tax and abolish the IRS…
- H.R. 26: Veterans Mental Health Screening and Assessment Act.
- H.R. 27: Lumbee Recognition Act. (Federal recognition is hereby extended to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina…)
- H.R. 29: Withdrawal of the United States from the North American Free Trade Agreement…
OK, withdrawing from NAFTA could be a job-creating act.
- H.R. 39 Delist polar bears from the endangered species list.
- H.R. 72: the New Jobs for America Act of 2011. Finally, wayyy down the list is a bill that really has something to do with jobs: "To authorize the Secretary of Labor to make grants to States, units of local government, and Indian tribes to carry out employment training programs."
- H.R. 87 To repeal the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Right, repeal the modest financial reform that made it through last year. Right.
. . . blah blah blah
Top Priority: Redefine Rape?
#1 was "reserved for the Speaker," #2 was repealing health care reform and passed, so let's look at #3, the Taxpayer Funding For Abortion Act. This astonishing law, if passed, redefines rape and incest as only that which is "forcible." It has been co-sponsored by 173 mostly Republican representatives, and was called a "top priority" by Speaker of the House John Boehner. Federal funding of abortion is already restricted, but with exceptions for rape, incest and health/life of the mother. So currently a woman who is raped can use Medicaid to pay for an abortion. This bill tries to deny federal funding for abortions resulting from rape or incest if there wasn't sufficient "force" involved! It also changes the health/life of the mother to only life, removing health.
How is that for priorities? Before jobs, this is what the new House is working on!
OK, I'll leave that where it is. Read it again, read the bill, and think about it.
Cuts That Kill Jobs
Instead of introducing job-creating legislation Republicans are getting ready to cut the very government programs that create jobs: education, infrastructure, research & development, unemployment benefits, etc. In what world will it help create jobs and help the economy to let our education and infrastructure further deteriorate?
Where Are The Jobs?
They campaigned on creating jobs. Where is the job-creation plan? What is the plan?
The President laid out a plan in the State of the Union address: rebuild the infrastructure and make our country competitive again. That is a plan. Where is the Republican plan?


text: Karl Fogel is an open source developer and author. After working on CVS and writing "Open Source Development With CVS" (Coriolis, 1999), he went to CollabNet, Inc as a founding developer in the Subversion project. Based on his experiences there, he wrote "Producing Open Source Software: How to Run a Successful Free Software Project" (O'Reilly, 2005), and after a brief stint at Google, now works as an independent copyright reform activist. His secret mission is to spread open source principles and methods to areas outside software.


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Ajax - Tottenham HotspurUEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 2018 - 2019 1/2 final:
Ajax - Tottenham Hotspur, 2 - 3. Johan Cruijff Arena, Amsterdam, Netherlands, 2019-05-08
Give us your marksGive us your marks
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Want to try your hand at match reporting?Write a full report for this match
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Registering will give you the chance to tell the world how you feel about Felix Brych and the Ajax - Tottenham Hotspur match.
You can give us your marks and leave a short comment or write a full blown match report.


text:
Photo: Andrew H. Walker / 2012 Getty Images
Eve Hewson — daughter of U2 frontman Bono and his wife Ali Hewson — may be the child of a superstar, but she's looking to make a name for herself in the acting world. The new Sean Penn film "This Must Be the Place," which opens Nov. 9 in S.F., marks her first major film role. We take a look at other kids of famous people who are trying to make it big.


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The Board of Directors of the Meals on Wheels program in Estherville wishes to thank all of our volunteer drivers who deliver these meals to our people in need of them in our community. This year marks the 30th year this program has been available in Estherville.
Through the kindness and charitable spirit of our churches involved and the VFW Auxiliary, we are able to continue this program. We know our clients are most appreciative of these volunteers who make it possible for them to receive a meal every day.
Our board members are Dorothy Neppl, president; Mary Lown, vice president; Velma White, secretary; Donna Roth, treasurer; Pat Erickson, Paulette Graff, Susan Jacobson, Ellen Johnson, Delores Kesler, Carol Shipley, Grace Spalding and Linda Wiegman.
Again, a big THANK YOU.
Dorothy Neppl,


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Firebug 1.13 alpha 7Friday, December 13th, 2013
getfirebug.com has Firebug 1.13 alpha 7
Firebug 1.13a7 fixes 14 issues
Firebug 1.13a7 is compatible with Firefox 26-29
Let's take a look at some new features introduced in this release:
Add auto-completion for HTML attributes
The HTML panel now offers auto-completion for tag attributes. This improves the workflow a lot. For example, you just have to type
c and it gets completed to
class. This doesn't just work for HTML, but also for SVG.
Auto-complete CSS styles within the HTML "style" attribute
Furthermore the "style" attribute now has an auto-completion for all the different CSS styles. So you can tweak your styles in both, the Style side panel and the HTML panel.
Error badge improved
In case there are errors detected on the page, Firebug was always showing a little badge with the number of errors that occurred besides its Start Button. It is now possible to click this error badge to get to the Console panel in order to get more information about the errors.
Please post feedback in the newsgroup.
Jan 'Honza' Odvarko


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Events for March 11, 2019
Day Navigation
9:30 pm
Check out "The most diverse and groovy series of jam sessions" in Seattle, hosted by talented, local musicians! The house band—Entremundos—includes Adriana Giordano on vocals, Eric Verlinde on keyboard, Dean Schmidt on bass, Jeff Busch on drums, and Ernesto Pediangco & Tor Dietrichson on percussion. Whatever your favorite flavor: Jazz, Blues, Soul, Latin, Brazilian, […]Find out more


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Finding relief from sinus pain
If you are congested, feel your face throbbing and have a fever, your symptoms could be more than the common cold. You could be suffering from a sinus infection.
Sinuses are small air-filled cavities located within the skull or bones of the head surrounding the nose. Sinuses are located behind the forehead, nasal bones, cheeks and eyes.
What Do Our Sinuses Do for Us?
Mucus in the sinuses traps dust, germs and other particles in the air. Tiny hair-like projections sweep mucus toward openings leading to the back of the throat. Then mucous is swallowed.
If nasal tissues become inflamed, for example, because of allergies or a cold, the sinuses can be blocked, trapping mucous. The stagnant mucous can be a breeding ground for viruses, bacteria and fungus.
Do I Have a Cold or Sinus Infection?
Symptoms of sinus infections (sinusitis) include:
- Nasal stuffiness and congestion
- Discolored mucous (green)
- Facial tenderness under the eyes or at the bridge of the nose
- Headaches
- Teeth pain
- Coughing, fever and fatigue
- Bad breath
- Fever
- Fatigue
Cold symptoms peak at three to five days and then improve and disappear in seven to 10 days. Colds start with clear, water nasal discharge. The mucous can then become thicker but becomes clear and dries up.
Those with allergies and asthma can be more susceptible to a sinus infection. Nasal and sinus passages become swollen, congested and inflamed while trying to rid the body of particles causing allergies.
Unlike a cold, sinus infection can be caused by bacterial infections and require treatment of an antibiotic. An infection of the sinus cavity close to the brain can be life threatening if not treated because it can spread to the brain.
How is a Sinus Infection Treated?
Your healthcare provider may recommend:
- Antibiotics
- Nasal decongestant sprays for a few days only
- Antihistamines to block allergic reactions
- Topical nasal corticosteroids: Prescription medication spray that prevents and reverses inflammation and swelling in nasal passages and sinus openings.
- Nasal saline spray
People with persistent sinus infections may require surgery.
Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics, American Rhinologic Society, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology


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The master Engineer provided all the parts for plastics, long before the modern Plastic Age began.PDF Download
No results found in Creation on Display.
Your irresistible urge to snatch up that cute little puppy and hug it for all you're worth isn't just a feeling. It's science.Browse Issue Subscribe
Answers in Genesis is an apologetics ministry, dedicated to helping Christians defend their faith and proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ.


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Flying trapeze is a challenging activity undertaken in a controlled environment. We do our best to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all the flyers participating in the class, with highly trained staff, established safety procedures, and high quality equipment which meets international safety standards.
Trapeze is an interactive experience and both trainers and flyers share the responsibility to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. You can help by listening carefully to all instructions and asking the trainer if something isn't clear. Also please alert us to anything that may compromise your safety for example a previous injury or existing medical condition. We reserve the right to remove any participant from the class at any time if the trainer believes the person is compromising the safety of themselves or anyone else.
The following FAQs describe the procedures and conditions applicable for all classes at all venues and we detail it here so that you have a better idea of what to expect when you sign up to experience the flying trapeze with High Flyers Bali.
How to prepare before your class
Wear comfortable non-restrictive clothing. A t-shirt and shorts or leggings are fine.
No Suncream or moisturiser (No slippery or damp skin)
Don't come still wet from the pool or sea.
Don't come from the bar – no alcohol can be consumed before using the equipment.
Declare any previous injuries and/or medical conditions that might affect your capacity to participate fully. We might be able to modify the procedures so that you can still experience the full enjoyment of the class.
All flyers must wear a snug fitting safety harness around their abdomen. Participation is not permissible for anyone who is pregnant or who thinks they might be pregnant.
If your class is booked during Bali's rainy season and it looks like it may be cancelled because of bad weather please contact us to check if there are alternative arrangements in place for that day.
What to bring
"Time to Fly = Time for Fun!" Bring your PMA (positive mental attitude) tell yourself you will do this and put all fears behind you, leave stress and negative thoughts behind and have fun.
Bring Friends and family to watch and shout encouragement and take pictures of your flying adventure.
If you are under 12 years old bring a parent or responsible adult to supervise you in case you need to leave the area for a drink, toilet break etc. (Our staff are unable to leave the rig to assist with this.)
You might want to bring a hat to wear while waiting for your turn, and a water bottle to make sure you don't get dehydrated.
Before you climb the ladder to the trapeze board.
We will control the number of participants in each class so that each and every flyer gets maximum enjoyment and maximum attention from our trainers.
Students will be asked to sign a disclaimer for insurance purposes and instructed on the safety aspects of trapeze. This is a safe and controlled activity and the rules are for your own safety and to ensure an enjoyable experience.
There will be a minimum of 3 fully trained instructors to guide and encourage you every step of the way.
A brief fun warm up session will follow where you will get to know fellow students as you warm up thoroughly in preparation for your class.
You will then be taught basic positions on the ground on a stationary rig before you attempt any tricks on the rig. All Students are shown how to hang from the trapeze bar and bring their legs up for a knee hang which will be their first trick. Adult students will practice this with close guidance from one of our trainers so that the move is familiar before you try it in the air. All students will also be taught the position you need to adopt in order to launch yourself from the board into the air so that your arm and body position remain safe and comfortable through that action.
Then you fly!
After the warm-up and the training on the stationery bar you will be helped into your safety harness and, depending on your age and which rig is used you may be attached to a belay to climb the ladder up to the trapeze board. Once at the top an instructor will attach your harness to a safety line and help you onto the platform.
You are now ready to perform tricks you never thought you could do under instruction. Don't forget you are attached to a safety harness at all times and will never free fall onto the safety mats or net, you under the control of an instructor at all times.
Are there any restrictions about who can participate?
You will not be allowed to go on the trapeze if you have consumed alcohol as this compromises all health and safety rules which are designed with your own safety in mind.
Do not attempt the trapeze if you are pregnant or even think you might be
If you have back, neck or shoulder injuries or have had surgery on these areas you should forgo trapeze. As with any exercise or physical activity you may want to check with your doctor if you are uncertain.
You will need to hold your weight hanging by the bar from your hands, and you will need to be able to climb the ladder to the platform. Please call to ask about specific concerns or accommodations.
Vision and hearing impairments can be accommodated. People with other disabilities may be able to fly if they are able to climb the ladder with minimal assistance, and hang from the bar with their own hands. If you have questions, concerns or would like more information, don't hesitate to ask.
Children from as young as 5 can participate. The upper age limit is 65 for Insurance reasons.


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As a small business owner you know the importance of social media as a low-cost, effective, and potentially explosive means to grow your business.
However, you also know that in order to derive any actual benefit, it takes time, effort, and know-how to build a following large enough to deliver tangible results.
In this post, we'll be covering the importance and value of Twitter and how the social network is proving it can boost your bottom line.
Let's start by highlighting some of the basics. The seven-year-old platform has managed to rack up 200 million monthly active users who altogether send out more than 400 million tweets a day.
Recently, Twitter paired up with research firm Market Probe International to survey 500 people who follow small businesses on Twitter. Below are some of their key findings in addition to some action items for each point that show how you can start taking advantage of them.
1. Followers Are 72% More Likely to Buy From You
When a user decides to follow your business on Twitter they are raising their hand and giving you permission to engage with them.
And with all the clutter and noise that exists online these days, the smallest emotional investment from current or prospective customers can make all the difference when it comes to driving sales.
In fact, 72% people are more likely to make a future purchase from a small business after they follow or interact with that business on Twitter.
In other words, followers drive sales.
So you're probably wondering, can you build a following and begin converting those followers to customers?
Here are some tips:
Know your customer niches and use Twitter directory tools like WeFollow and Just Tweet It to find individuals with similar interests and backgrounds to start building a tribe.
Go one step further than interests and use advanced Twitter search to look up users via specific keywords, hashtags, and locations. Then proactively reach out to those users offering advice and help when they need it.
Tweet when your followers are active, find out optimal times using tools like Tweriod and SocialBro
Use Twitter ads to promote your account to potential followers and show up at the top of search results
Schedule your tweets based on the optimal times you discover using tools like Buffer
2. Followers Are 30% More Likely to Recommend You
With the democratization of opinions, reviews, and recommendations, small businesses more than ever depend on people spreading the word to their friends and families, or better yet to their digital following.
The good news is your followers are 30% more likely to recommend you while 86% of followers are more likely to visit a business if a friend recommends them.
A positive review in the form of online interaction on Twitter can tip the scale when a prospective customer is choosing between two or more products and services.
Your job then is to make it easier to recommend you, or better yet incentivizing it somehow. Here are some ways how:
Social media scientist Dan Zarrella found that adding the phrases "please retweet," and "please RT" led to more retweets
Optimize your email receipts and email newsletters or coupons with social share buttons and calls-to-actions encouraging your audience to send out a Tweet
Use visual content, specifically images, which get twice the amount of engagement than tweets without image links
3. 73% of Followers Want Updates on Future Products
It makes solid business sense for small business owners to encourage repeat purchases from previous customers rather than constantly going out to find new customers.
When someone makes a purchase and cares enough to follow you, they're going to want to know what you have in the pipeline so they can get in on the action before everyone else. In fact, 73% of followers say they follow small businesses to get updates on future products.
Here are some ways you can capitalize on your follower's curiosity by building buzz for your latest products:
Build suspense with sneak peeks and teaser tweets hinting at what you have launching that your followers will want to share
Run a contest on Twitter, here are four excellent examples and various formats as well as Twitter guidelines just to be on the safe side
Amplify your reach by using other popular social platforms simultaneously, including Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest
4. 61% of Followers Want to Offer Ideas and Feedback.
Access to information and the ability to voice your opinion on a global scale has given consumers the ability to not just accept or reject the products and services that are sold to them but play an active role in shaping and determining their future.
Your consumers don't just want to buy your wares, they want to help you build a better business with 61% of followers saying they follow small businesses in order to be able to offer feedback and share ideas.
For example, Virgin America who was on Twitter even before it had its first flight in the sky uses its company account @ViriginAmerica to proactively resolve customer complaints and take their feedback into account.
The company aims to respond to each mention in under 15 minutes, but usually replies under five. It continuously monitors their account for suggestions and feedback and has used it to choose everything from inflight entertainment all the way to having passengers vote on their favorite cocktails for their menu.
Hopefully these stats will convince you to start looking at Twitter as more than just another social media tool and more like a social platform that can add to your bottom line.
If you have other research, success stories, and ideas you'd like to share on the topic, please add them in the comments below.
Here's the full infographic:


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13 September 2010 at 1.55pm | 1 Comment
After the rigours of two first nights and two parties, the entire company had a rest day. Everyone, that is, except Tony Pappano who clearly felt that he hadn't been busy enough and held some masterclasses with Ji-Min Park at the British Embassy!
A large group took an organized excursion to see Mount Fuji and although a bit of a rush, was a great success. There were stunning views of the elusive mountain, and a great atmosphere on the company coach! Only four choristers took the trip into the mountains to Nikko but reported a sensational day in a tropical paradise. There were other stories of sorties to Kamakura, local sight-seeing and shopping expeditions. Everyone in the group seems to be really grabbing the Japan experience with both hands. Another small group of choristers made impressive use of the day by taking the 7am bullet train to Kyoto and returning to Tokyo about midnight. Although a flying visit, it offered a remarkable insight into Japanese history and culture.
The wonders of modern technology have made staying in touch with home relatively straight forward once you negotiate the pitfalls of the 8-hour time difference. Skype has allowed us free or almost free links and phone calls wherever there are wireless hotspots.
'Have you got Wi-Fi?' has become the catchphrase of the tour!
- John Bernays


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Born with the gifts of flexibility, curiosity, and goofiness Jonathan now uses these talents to entertain audiences around the world.
His act has been seen on 100's of stages at Colleges & Universities, Festivals, and Specials Events. If you are looking for a unique and fun act Jonathan Burns is the perfect fit!
for the evening!"


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|Board Email:
|Board Phone:
|(803) 896-4686
|Roger K. Lowe
|Board Staff:
|Rhonda Jackson
|Board Staff:
|Faith Howell
|Board Staff:
|Chanda Davis
|Board Staff:
|Lee English
|Board Staff:
|Board Staff:
|Shakera Thomas
|Board Staff:
|Yolanda Barnes
|Advice Counsel:
|Georgia Lewis   **
|110 Centerview Dr, Columbia SC
**The Office of Advice Counsel is responsible for
providing legal advice to all Boards, Commissions
and Panels. These attorneys do not provide legal
advice to parties outside LLR.
CSLB Industry Bulletin - 11/20/2012
Note From S.C. Contractors Licensing Board: Please see important information below received from the California State License Board and the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies regarding a possible scam involving contractors. The South Carolina Contractors' Licensing Board is not aware of this happening in South Carolina, but wants to make sure licensees are aware of the possibility.
SACRAMENTO — The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) is issuing an Industry Alert to all licensees about to renew current licenses or anyone who has either applied for a CSLB license, or plans to apply.
Be careful if anyone contacts you claiming to be from CSLB, or asks for credit card information over the phone for you to renew your license, get continuing education credit, or take a licensing exam. This is a scam!
"We've discovered at least one unscrupulous company that's using information from CSLB's website to contact licensees or applicants to mislead and scam them," CSLB Registrar Steve Sands. "The caller leads the licensee or applicant to believe he or she needs to pay money over the phone to get continuing education credit, renew a license or to schedule a licensing exam."
CSLB staff will never ask for credit card information over the phone, nor will they process any payment over the phone. CSLB fees are only payable through the mail via check or at CSLB headquarters via cash, check, or credit card. There are no continuing education requirements to renew a CSLB license. A list of all license fees are available on CSLB's website.
Business and Professions Code section 7080.5 requires CSLB to make public the name and address of every accepted application for a license, on the day following acceptance, at CSLB's office in Sacramento. Since technology now permits the electronic posting of these lists, CSLB makes them available on its website. These lists are used by many legitimate companies, including bond companies and license assistance companies.
At this point CSLB will continue to post the applicant lists on its website, but the process could change if applicants continue to be preyed upon by unscrupulous companies.
Click Here to visit the California Contractors State License Board Industry Bulletins website.
If you have any questions or should further information be desired, please contact the South Carolina Contractors' Licensing Board at (803) 896-4686.


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Commitment to Excellence
One of San Diego's Finest Woman Owned Businesses
Most of us want the same thing when our car needs collision repair...
We want it fixed right... without any hassles.
We also want a shop where quality and integrity shine through!
Good news! You have found a collision repair facility that wants that to happen to you. How do you know? By our commitment to staff training, customer satisfaction and integrity business dealings, you will feel comfortable with all aspects of Carrillo & Sons Collision Center.
Customer Satisfaction:
Our Commitment to Superior Auto Repair Services
Everyone at Carrillo & Sons fully understands that each customer and their expectations concerning auto body paint and repair are different. Our goal is to treat each person and their vehicle individually in an effort to meet their personal expectations. Total customer satisfaction is achievable with Carrillo & Sons Collision Center!
Highly Skilled Auto Body Professionals &
State of the Art Facilities
Here at Carrillo & Sons Collision Center, it is our priority to stay current with the latest auto body technology through I-CAR Training and ASE Certification. We have continually learned and updated our skills to restore your car to its original condition, and manufacturer's specifications, for your safety. We strive to achieve this without unnecessary complications and we do it cooperatively with your insurance company.
I-CAR Certified Mechanics: Safe & Efficient Collision Repair
I-CAR, The Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair is an international training organization dedicated to improving the quality, safety & efficiency of collision repair for the benefit of the consumer.
ASE Certified: International Automotive Service Excellence
ASE's Blue Seal of Excellence Recognition Program is the industry's method of ensuring that our staff is knowledgeable and fully trained to the highest level.
"We're Proud of Our Blue Seal Team"


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Attend a 90-minute workshop, and learn how to naturally recycle yard waste and food scraps. Hands-on demonstrations of composting, mulching, "grasscycling" will be provided, and more.
For the next scheduled workshop, visit the Fullerton Arboretum
Learn how to start your own home composting system. Discover how easy it is with our informative and entertaining experts, Dr. Bill Roley, President, Applied Ecological Systems and Patrick McNelly, Principal Staff Analyst O.C. Sanitation District. Our instructors have won the nationally recognized H. Clark Gregory Award for Outstanding Grassroots Efforts to Promote Composting. Fee is $7/ person and $5/member of the Friends of the Arboretum. Free to residents of sponsoring cities: Brea, Buena Park, Fullerton, Orange and Santa Ana with proof of residency. Space is limited, call to reserve space, (657) 278-3407.
More info:
Recycling Programs Coordinator


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Carrying CasesGrace Digital Eco Extreme Waterproof MP3 Speaker Case - Yellow
Grace Digital Eco Extreme Waterproof MP3 Speaker Case - Yellow
DetailsGRACE DIGITAL ECO EXTREME WATERPROOF MP3 SPEAKER CASE YELLOW
Eco Extreme - Rugged All-Terrain Speaker Case
Take your music anywhere
The Eco Extreme waterproof case works with every mp3 player and cell phone including the iPhone, iPod Touch, Motorola Droid and Blackberry. Built with a rugged, rubberized protective body, this is a great choice for anyone on the go who wants to take their music with them.
The Eco Extreme case for your mp3 player is a top pick. It provides extreme durability, rugged housing and dynamic sound performance that will get your heart rate up but priced to keep your heart rate down!
Take it to the Beach
There is really no place that the Eco Extreme case will not go. Take it to the beach, hiking & backpacking, on your camping or boating trip...If you can get there, it'll follow you.
Universal 1/8" Headset Jack
Our waterproof case connects to your iPhone, iPod or mp3 player via the 1/8" headset jack located on the inside of the Eco Extreme case. It virtually works with any audio device with a headset jack.
Rugged Industrial Design
The rugged industrial design protects your mp3 player from the elements when you're outdoors. The rubberized outer shell includes platformed feet to allow your case to stand vertically while it's open or closed.
Detachable Carabineer
The Eco Extreme comes with a carabineer to clip on to your backpack to keep your hands free. Clip the case to the top of your tent, to a tree while sitting by the camp fire, basically where ever you can click it.
- Waterproof case with built-in speaker
- 3" full range forward firing speaker
- Detachable carabineer clip allows easy transportation while leaving your hands free
- Up to 30hrs Battery Life at average volume levels
- Requires 3 AA batteries (batteries not included)
- Uniquely designed exterior pressure release valve ensures your case is water tight but always easy to open at low and high altitudes
- Spacious internal storage compartment can hold your keys, MP3 Player, credit cards, drivers license and cash, while keeping it all safe from sand, sun, and water
- Industrial design includes a platform to vertically stand your case while open or closed
- High impact shock resistant design withstands drops, falls and spills
- Designed to play open or closed to play upright or onside
Please Note: This listing is for an accessory case or mount only. Phone, tablet, or other device not included.
- Wrist / Fitness GPS
- Automotive GPS Units
- Handheld GPS Units
- Chartplotters / GPS
- Fishfinders / GPS
- Motorcycle / ATV GPS
- Two-Way Radio / GPS
- Safety & Tracking
- Camping & Outdoors
"Great selection, unbeatable prices, fast shipping. I am extremely happy with Tiger GPS and am recommending them to everyone I know."
- Gary, West Virginia
"Prompt shipment, great communication and a willingness to work for the customer. I would definitely highly recommend Tiger GPS!"
- Karen, California
"It arrived earlier than I expected. I also like the fact that I got e-mail from them confirming my order and giving me their contact info right away. It seemed personalized which I like."
- Stephen, Massachusetts
"The most informative site I have come across. Prices are amazing too - not sure why you would shop for GPS anywhere else."
- Wendy, Louisiana
"These guys know their stuff. They answer their phone right away, and the knowledgeable reps helped me pick the right GPS and even saved me some money!"
- Robert, New York
"No other site is willing to ship to a military APO address, and GPS is crucial out here. Great prices - thank you for supporting the troops."
- Edwin, USMC in Iraq


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Youth skills camp on tap at Columbine High School
The Columbine Lady Rebels volleyball team is offering a youth skills camp Aug. 1-3 at Columbine High School. The camp is for children in grades 6-8 and will be held daily from 9 a.m. until noon.
Cost is $45, which includes a camp T-shirt. For more details and to print out a registration form, visit http://ladyrebelvolleyball.com.
If you currently subscribe or have subscribed in the past to the Columbine Courier, then simply find your account number on your mailing label and enter it below.
Click the question mark below to see where your account ID appears on your mailing label.
|ZIP Code:


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Transform your photos into one-of-a-kind, hand painted masterpieces!
Image Size
The image is near the edges of the product but doesn't cover the entire product. Some of the background color may appear around the outside edges of the image.
Background Color
Our ceramic coffee mugs are available in two sizes: 11 oz. and 15 oz. Each mug is dishwasher and microwave safe.
11 oz.
Ships Within
1 - 2 business days
Tu doit �tre fier de tes filles!
Jeffrey Kolker replied:
I am, very much so!
What a loving & lovely portrait, Jeff.
Jeffrey Kolker replied:
Thank you Gina!
Average Rating (4.85 Stars):
Rick Sanchez
May 22nd, 2019
Bryan McCarthy
May 22nd, 2019
My daughters...
Self taught, I use the computer to paint. I've always been interested in computers since I first worked on one way back in high school. And I've always had an appreciation for art, as my mother is an accomplished painter. Merging the two, what you see are the results. Digital work that looks (hopefully!) like a traditional painting. My paintings are mostly places I've been, preserving the memory and sharing them with the world. I love to travel, seeing and experiencing new things. Painting the things I see reflect the wonder I had when I first saw them. I hope that when people see my works, they think the subject matter is interesting, whether or not they like the painting. Oh..and I paint flowers too, among other...
Our return policy is very simple:
If you're not happy with a purchase that you made on Pixels.com, for any reason, you can return it to us within 30 days of the order date. As soon as it arrives, we'll issue a full refund for the entire purchase price. Please note - Pixels does not reimburse the outgoing or return shipping charges unless the return is due to a defect in quality.
Pixels sells thousands of pieces of artwork each month - all with a 100% money-back guarantee. We take great pride in the fact that hundreds of thousands of artists have chosen Pixels to fulfill their orders, and we look forward to helping you select your next piece!
All coffee mugs ship from our production facility within 1 - 2 business days of your order.


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This exciting new swimwear brand offers quality fabrics, action friendly design and a Fuss Free Fit, something not seen before in swimwear. Active Spirit has three product lines that enhance your swimming pleasure. Swim Athleisure includes swim tops including tankinis, and swim bottoms including skirtinis, shortinis and swim briefs. A hidden pocket in the waistband holds your personal waterproof items like money, keys and more. The supportive waistband also helps trim your waist for a smooth look. The POCKETZ swimwear collection has a very comfortable inner bra with 360 degree support and contour cups that are constructed to stay in place. A dig-free underband also adds support to the bust. An action-oriented legline lets you move freely. The invisible Tote Your Technology zip pocket is perfect to hold waterproof items like keys and money, as well as certified waterproof cell phones. Be sure your technology is waterproof before you take a dip! S.P.A. Sports Performance Active swimwear offers a matte fabric that is flattering, camouflages figure issues and smooths your curves. A super-soft lining tames your tummy and is antimicrobial to discourage odors. A 100% chlorine proof outer fabric is especially engineered for long life in pools, hot tubs and spas. A dig-free elastic underband under the bust adds comfort, while action-loving leg contours stay put when you're most active.
Active Spirit swimwear is a real winner when it comes to streamlined, tech-friendly swimwear innovation, and HerRoom is pleased to offer it.


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Rye Breads Class
This past Friday, I taught a class on rye breads at the Culinary Center of Kansas City. The class was scheduled to run from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Three different breads were featured: the rustic pumpernickel from ITJB, Eric's fav rye (compliments of the late Eric Hanner), and a vort limpa. That gave a nice sampling of the diversity of rye breads. We were able to bake both the pumpernickel and the vort limpa during class; students then took the dough for Eric's fav rye with them to bake at home.
I had had some concerns about the drawing power of a full-day class on a week day. As it turned out, all 20 slots were taken, with a waiting list in case of any cancellations. So, yes, there is enough interest, in spite of the schedule. No doubt the inclusion of a $20 gift certificate for Pryde's of Westport, a local kitchen supply store, figured favorably, too.
A number of the students were familiar to me from previous classes, which makes for a pleasant time. Based on what I saw and heard, and what came through on the feedback forms, it was a fun day for the students as well as for me. Most were new to rye breads and to sourdough, so they were pleased to gain some new experience and to receive some starter to take home to use for future baking.
One of the Center's requirements is that the instructor provide food for the students. In the case of an evening or half-day class, that is typically something to snack on; usually whatever is being made in the class. In the case of an all-day class like this one, it is lunch. It was a no-brainer to plan lunch around the three breads being taught. That led to cold cuts and condiments and pickles/olives/peppers, with fresh fruit for dessert.
Consequently, I needed to bake bread ahead of time to have it ready for the lunch of Friday. That worked well, since it also did double duty as object lesson so that people could see the finished product, too.
If you have baked the rustic pumpernickel from ITJB, you know that it is dark and dense and fragrant with rye. There's no molasses, coffee, cocoa, or caramel color in it, nor does it have a prolonged bake. My belief is that the scald contributes strongly to the dark coloring and the moistness of the finished bread. Then, too, all I can find in local supermarkets is Hodgson Mills stone-ground rye flour, which is pretty hearty stuff in its own right. Even with heavy steam, the loaf experienced some cracking but no blowouts.
The vort limpa is a party in a compact loaf. It is redolent of molasses, orange zest/juice, anise, fennel, cardamom, and beer. With a smear of sweet butter, it's practically dessert. And it still makes for some darn good sandwiches and toast, too.
Many, many of you have made Eric's fav rye and know that it is a stellar example of a deli-style rye bread. It makes a magnificent base for a wide range of sandwiches. While I enjoy the bite of the caraway, my wife often prefers it when I substitute either fennel seeds or dill seeds for the caraway. No matter how you tweak it, this is a seriously good bread.
With those out of the way, I needed to build up my starter to have sufficient for 21 batches (20 students + 1 instructor demo) of the pumpernickel and Eric's fav rye, plus enough to give away. That turns out to be a lot of starter. Really, really, a lot. Keep in mind that this class was initially planned last summer. At that time, I was focused more on pulling together the bread descriptions for inclusion in the advertising and the formulae to go into the student's class booklets. There should have been some thought given to the amount of prep. I know that now. Yes, I do.
For instance, this is what all of the scald for the pumpernickel looks like with half of the sponge incorporated. You can see that it occupies most of one end of my kitchen's island:
The lighting isn't very good; it's all down light from the ceiling and island light fixtures. There isn't a lot of ambient light at 6 a.m. in January here in Kansas.
This is the second half of the pumpernickel's sponge, ready to mix in with the scald; nothing but rye flour and water, and it smells wonderful!:
Sponge and scald, ready for the final mix (I could have used a big spiral mixer right about now). Note that the sponge is lighter in color than the scald, even though both are made with the same flour:
Needless to say, it took a number of trips to schlep all of the ingredients from my kitchen to the car, and then again from the car into the teaching kitchen. I suspect that we will rerun this class at some future date but there may be a change in the lineup that reduces the amount of prep I have to do.
There aren't any photos of the actual class. I didn't think to grab my camera on the way out the door and there wasn't time to use it, anyway.
My students were an interesting group. The youngest may have been in their late 20s or early 30s. The oldest were, well, older than me and I'm 57. One couple took a day off from work to attend. All were alert and inquisitive, with lots of good questions. We had a lively discussion about how to begin and maintain a starter, which would have been shorter if I hadn't misunderstood a key part of one inquiry. ;0 During the course of the day, there were a lot of questions about dough consistency and how it was affected by the amount of flour or water people worked into their doughs. I had talked at length about how sticky some of the doughs would be and not to try to kill the stickiness with flour. A few still wound up with some stiff doughs that needed more water. Some students were almost completely new to bread making while others had some good skills. Tips on shaping and docking and slashing led to another flurry of questions. These are all areas where the hands-on aspect is hugely valuable, since a book just cannot provide that tactile feedback.
It was very satisfying to share these breads with such an eager group of learners. And it was a very full day. I was happy to climb into bed that evening.
Since one student was a no-show, and since I had intentionally made more starter than I expected to use, I wound up making a double batch of Eric's fav rye on Saturday and a double batch of Hamelman's sourdough walnut raisin rye on Sunday. We have happy friends.