text:
My story about making $100,000 in three weeks on Kindle is getting widely passed around, and I've noticed that folks are reacting in a few specific ways.
1. Some are happy for me, and for the possibilities this opens up for them. They know the work and struggle that went into getting here. (Bert Carson has a very nice post about this.)
2. Some keep perpetuating that false meme that it was my legacy books responsible for my success. I'm tired of debunking that one. It is 100% false.
3. Some think I'm telling the whole world that becoming successful is easy and that anyone can get rich by self-pubbing ebooks.
4. Some keep insisting that I must be some sort of marketing genius and they want to know what I've done to get here.
Allow me to address all of these reactions.
I wrote 9 novels and collected over 500 rejections during a 10 year period before I made a dime in this business. I sold my tenth novel in a three book deal for $110,000 back in 2002.
My publisher refused to tour me for my first book. They also refused to let me do any official book signings because they would have had to pay coop. So I began doing bookstore drop-ins and handselling my books. I'd stay anywhere from four to eight hours in bookstores. Have you ever sold one hundred $25 hardcovers in one place? I have. It's hell.
For the next book, my publisher toured me. In between official signings, I dropped in another 100 bookstores.
The next year, I spent the summer on the road and signed at more than 500 bookstores. It almost broke me.
I also visited dozens and dozens conferences, book fairs, and libraries. I've been to 42 states, doing this promo thing.
I sent out 7000 letters to libraries and bookstores, each with a signed drink coaster in them, to promote my books.
I edited an anthology, and wrote dozens of short stories that sold (for pennies) to top markets.
My publisher dropped their mystery line, me included, and my second three books with them ($125,000 advance for the trio) were given very little attention. I didn't tour for these. Couldn't afford it.
Then I wrote a horror novel. Got a $20k advance, and a two book deal. The first book quickly earned out, but they didn't like the second one. I rewrote it and they still refused it. I wrote a third for them and they wanted changes. I said no. I'd had enough.
I was never a successful legacy author. I was midlist, eking out a living, struggling from check to check, never making more than $50k in a year and spending a lot of that on travel.
I kept at it. I got 10,000 people on my mailing list. I was one of the first to realize the importance of MySpace (remember MySpace?), Facebook, and Twitter. I did one of the first successful author blog tours, visiting 100 blogs in a month.
But I still wasn't successful.
Then Kindle came along. Those rejected novels were on my website as freebies. I got emails from fans who wanted to read them on their Kindles, but the Kindle 1 couldn't read pdf files. After some investigation, I learned Amazon had a program for self-publishers.
I listed some of my old books and short stories, for cheap. And I started making money. I started making more money than I ever had as a legacy author.
My legacy books didn't lead people to my self-pubbed novels. It's the opposite. My self-pubbed books continue to outsell my legacy books at up to 10 to 1. People aren't buying me because I visited 1200 bookstores in my career. They aren't buying me because I have a popular blog about publishing. They aren't buying me because they love my old books.
I made $100,000 in three weeks from people who have no idea who I am. If they knew who I was, they would have bought those titles years ago. Because they've been available for years.
Don't get me wrong. I know I have fans. I know I have some name recognition. But the sales they bring are paltry next to the marketing machine which is Amazon.
How do I know this for sure?
Because all of my other books were (until recently) on other platforms, where they did mediocre compared to bestselling authors.
James Patterson is selling well on Kindle, but he's also selling well on Sony and Kobo and Apple and B&N. On Kindle, I'm outselling many Patterson titles. That isn't the case anywhere else.
So it isn't my name or my past that is responsible for this success. Nor is it any marketing efforts I'm doing now, because I'm not doing any. I haven't visited my Facebook page in six months. I have a fan page but don't know how to use it. I've never bought an online ad. I've got Twitter followers, but they're writers, not fans.
Right now I'm making a lot of money because I'm paying close attention to what Amazon is doing, experimenting a lot, and getting lucky.
Yes, I've worked hard. I still do. But no one deserves success. I have NEVER said that everyone can get rich with ebooks.
But I have said, repeatedly, that there are things writers can do to improve their luck. And that the self-pubbed route is vastly superior to the legacy route I trudged through for years.
In the long run, except in the case of bestsellers and huge advances, a writer WILL make more money self-publishing.
If you really want to see how I became successful, go back to the beginning of my blog and start reading. Follow my journey, month by month, year by year, to get to this point.
Here's the thing, though. All of our journeys are unique. Some writers get luckier sooner. Some haven't gotten lucky yet.
But if you keep writing good books with good covers and good descriptions and good formatting, and you keep experimenting and trying new things, it improves your odds.
Can you be a successful self-pubbed author?
It depends. How hard are you willing to work, and how long are you willing to wait, before success happens?
I got my first rejection letter in 1988. I've worked hard for 24 years, waiting for this kind of success.
If you've got that same ambition, I'm sure I'll see you on the bestseller lists someday.
Hopefully it won't take you that long.
Much success to everyone in 2012. There's more than enough to go around.
Friday, January 13, 2012
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)


text: Old Freighter kitbash ...or This Old Freighter. She's old - been in service a bit longer than the Enterprise in Kirk's time. Never seemed to get all the upgrades that front-line starships got - still has her original bridge dome; the engines had their final stage sections replaced with the newer ones to keep the old girl running, but the old bussards still worked, so they left them alone PNT Dreadnought saucer stuck on.. guess what? Yes, that's a bomb-bay belly tank from a 1/48 A-20. The underwing impulse engine fairing are castings taken from the inside of the Lief's aft dorsal fairing, using Aves Apoxy-Sculpt. That doesn't work too well, btw, especially if you don't have anything to use a mold release agent. I painted her with what was left of the can of Tamiya AS-2 I used on my 1/350 E, drew on some panel lines and weathered her to death. Decals are all PL kit decals except the name and number. Bucephalus was Alexander the Great's horse, which sounds elegant and all, until you find out it translates as "Thick Head". Which somehow seemed appropriate for this ship.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Easy Steps to Customize Your Resume for the Job You're Applying for Right Now
By Angela Rose, Hcareers.com
In the old days, back when folks were still kick-starting their dinosaurs, one version of a resume may have been perfectly adequate for applying to multiple jobs. Times have changed, and modern jobseekers have had to change with them. Hiring managers and human resources departments are inundated with resumes for every available position. If you want yours to stand out, you have to give them what they want. The best way to do this is with a little customization.
Creating a customized resume is not as time consuming as it may sound. Besides, the time you put in is well worth the effort if you want to increase your chances of receiving a coveted interview slot. Just start with the job posting and your generic resume, which is the one you've been using to apply for jobs.
1. Really read that job description. Make note of the credentials, skills and experience required. How does it describe the duties of the job? How does it describe the ideal candidate? Pulling from these descriptions, create a list of keywords and phrases to use when customizing your generic resume.
2. Target your title. If your resume begins with a title, don't leave it generic in nature. Instead, use the exact title listed in the job posting. For example, rather than "general manager," you might use "certified Hilton general manager."
3. Tweak your objective. If you elect to include an objective, customize it to include some of the keywords and qualifications you gleaned from the job description. For extra zing, mention the company's name. For example, instead of writing "to utilize my skills and experience within a managerial position," you might write, "to contribute to the success of XYZ Company by increasing departmental efficiencies through diligent management and thorough evaluation of processes."
4. Include quality qualifications. If your resume contains a qualifications summary, remove statements that are not specific to the goals of the position for which you are applying. Add information about qualifications that are relevant. Reorder as needed to place the most relevant qualifications first.
5. Edit your job descriptions. They should be relevant to the position for which you are applying. For example, if your job duties within a particular position included two dozen main tasks, focus on the ones that correspond to the job for which you are applying. A hiring manager doesn't really need to know everything you did at your last job, just what you did that is relevant to what she needs you to do.
6. Consider past positions in a different light. If you've only worked jobs that appear unrelated to the position for which you're currently applying, don't despair. A little careful thought should illuminate skill sets gained that you can word relevantly. For example, if you were formerly a dog walker and you're now applying for a receptionist position, focus on skills such as responsibility and communication rather than actual duties such as dog grooming.
Finish up with a quick review of what you've written. Have you mentioned all the skills, credentials and experience you originally noted? Have you used all your keywords? If you can answer yes to both questions, you can send the resume knowing you've done everything possible to capture the attention of the hiring manager and move your resume to the top of the stack.
About the Author
Angela Rose researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues for Hcareers.com.
Related Tags:


text:
Sneeky Stripes Rattle
The Keptin Jr Sneeky rattle is a fantastic toy for little ones. Baby will be fascinated and delighted with their wiggly new friend, ideal for grasping and holding. Designed to be sucked, chewed and cuddled, Sneeky is perfect during the teething stage to relieve pressure on the gums.
product details
product code: KE48165
- made from 100% organic cotton
- filling: pure wool
- soft rattle inside
- machine washable
- made in Europe
- size: 40cm
- age: suitable for newborn +
- made from 100% organic cotton
delivery and returns
Free shipping on all orders over $150 (excludes oversized items)
For more information about our flat rates and delivery, please see our delivery page.
You are welcome to return online purchases within 30 days, click here to view the full Returns Policy.
natural play
"Logic will get you from A to Z, imagination will get you everywhere." - Albert Einstein
Toys for the imagination... imaginative play is a crucial part of early childhood development. Our toys are well made and have some educational or imaginative component, as we believe a few, lasting toys with a multitude of uses and possibilities are much better for a child than a huge, and potentially overwhelming selection of toys.read more


text:
About Wadi Rum DesertWadi Rum Desert is a stunning valley situated in the heart of Jordan, boasting spectacular rocky landscapes and an ancient and fascinating history that spans back thousands of years. Wadi Rum Desert budget travel offers a glimpse into a breathtaking arid landscape with many wondrous attractions.
Wadi Rum Desert Budget Travel
Below is a list of Wadi Rum Desert's top activities, click on the link to view all details and tours.
View all activities in Wadi Rum Desert
Wadi Rum airports include the following:
•Queen Alia International Airport
•King Husein International Airport
To continue to untouched pristine nature of this area, Wadi Rum Desert conservation is critical. The area has been declared a protected area, and aside from the Bedouin camps found within the Wadi, there is no occupation or human influence that could disturb the extremely fragile ecosystems of Wadi Rum Desert.
Wadi Rum Desert culture includes the following:
• Family and ties play a key role in Bedouin culture
•Folk arts such as music, art and poetry is also a traditional culture of the Bedouin tribes
•Many Bedouin tribes have begun to breed and keep white doves in more recent years
•The transitional lifestyle eventually progressed into a nomadic or semi nomadic lifestyle over the years
Wadi Rum Desert health info for travellers includes the following:
•The most common health risk is travellers tummy from rich foods or tap water
•Health facilities are advanced in the major cities, but not in rural areas
•Pack a basic first aid kit with medication for upset stomachs, nausea and other minor ailments
•Check with your doctor about any health risks or disease outbreaks that may have occurred recently before leaving for your trip
Wadi Rum Desert languages include the following:
•Modern Standard Arabic
•Jordanian Levantine
While malaria in Wadi Rum Desert is not a risk, there may be a malaria risk within Asia in general. Travellers who are visiting malaria-risk countries before or after travelling to Wadi Rum Desert should consider malaria medication.
Wadi Rum Desert money and banking info is as follows:
•There are no banks or facilities in Wadi Rum Desert itself, but there are facilities in nearby towns and cities
•Most establishments accept payment in US dollars
•Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops
•Traveller's cheques are not widely accepted and may not be exchanged even in banks
•Cash machines are found in most supermarkets, banks and other commercial buildings
Wadi Rum Desert people include the following ethnic groups:
Wadi Rum Desert local phrases include the following:
•Hello: Marhaba
•Good morning: S-bahh Al-khair
•Good evening: Masa Al-khair
•Please: Men-fadllaak (m)
•Please: Men-fadllake (f)
•How much: Gha-daish?
Wadi Rum Desert plants are scarce, with much of the area taken up by desert and rocky cliff faces. The largest type of vegetation to be found in Wadi Rum Desert comprises of sand dune vegetation, which typically includes shrubs and grasslands.
Wadi Rum Desert religion includes the following:
•Sunni Muslim 92%
•Christian 7%
•No religion 1%
Safety Tips
Wadi Rum safety tips include:
•Climbing and trekking here can be dangerous for those who have difficulties with heights
•Canyons can be lethal, particularly as a result of flash floods - check the weather and avoid the area after rains
•Dangerous animals can be found in the desert, including snakes and scorpions
•The desert heat is extremely harsh, with very strong sun - carry water at all times and wear high factor sunscreen to protect yourself
•The area is extremely remote, with no health facilities in the event of sickness or accidents, take simple precautions at all times
Wadi Rum Desert local transport includes:
•4x4 vehicle
Travel Books
Wadi Rum Desert travel books include the following:
•Treks and Climbs in Wadi Rum Desert by Tony Howard
•Travels in Syria and the Holy Land by Johan Lewis Burckhardt
•Kingdom of the Film Stars: Journey into Wadi Rum Desert by Annie Caulfield
•Walking the Bible by Bruce Feiler
•The Seven Pillars of Wisdom by T E Lawrence
What To Buy
What to buy for holidays in Wadi Rum Desert:
•Spare batteries for torches and camera
•Guide books and Arabic phrase books
•Thick socks for hiking boots
•First aid kit for travel purposes
•Large refillable water bottle, or plenty of bottled water
What To Pack
What to pack for safari in Wadi Rum Desert:
•Sunscreen, sunhat and sunglasses
•Bathing suit and towels
•Headscarves for women, plus long skirts and t-shirts that cover shoulders
•Comfortable walking shoes plus sandals
•Camera with spare batteries and memory card/film
•Guide book and phrase book
•Basic first aid kit
When To Go
When t o go to Wadi Rum Desert:
•Early Spring and Autumn have clear, sunny days and moderate temperatures that make these periods the best times to visit
•March and the first half of April are ideal, with wildflowers briefly in bloom
•Summers have fierce temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius and upwards
•Rain in Winter and Spring can sometimes cause flash floods so take caution during these times
Commenting is not available in this channel entry.
The highlight of my trip had to be Gweru in Zimbabwe, it was my idea of paradise. So much to do there with the animals and the location of it was just beautiful!
— Anne B (27) from Ireland
The trip was great! A very relaxed ride in a mokoro, followed by camping in the Okavango Delta and watching the animals on the islands was awesome!
— Michael & Silke from Germany
I loved every millisecond of the entire trip... Guess what I did in Swakopmund? I skydived out of a plane - woohoo was that AWESOME :-)
— JoJo E (61) from Switzerland
Finally home and had a great time…. I loved the shark diving, Sossusvlei and Himba people. Saw Lions, a Leopard, Elephants, Giraffes, everything really! Thanks for…
— John E from Canada
I did not believe in god till i visited Chobe National Park.
— Juca from Uruguay
Do this on the Cape Town to Nairobi with Gorilla Trek.Tours with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Do this on the 14-day Kruger and Mozambique Safari.Tours with Kruger National Park Game Drive
Do this on the Best of South West Africa.Tours with Okavango Delta Mokoro Excursion
Do this on the Best of East Africa.Tours with Serengeti National Park Excursion
Do this on the Best of South West Africa.Tours with Victoria Falls Flight of Angels
Do this on the Best of South West Africa.Tours with White Water Rafting on the Zambezi River
Visit Etosha National Park on the Best of NamibiaTours through Etosha National Park
Visit Okavango Delta on the Best of South West AfricaTours through Okavango Delta
Visit Serengeti National Park on the Best of East AfricaTours through Serengeti National Park
Visit Victoria Falls on the Best of South West AfricaTours through Victoria Falls
Visit Zanzibar Island on the cape town to darTours through Zanzibar Island


text:
Dr. Tunji
Please follow these steps if on your computer you face problems.
Stage I: Open the video, watch your initial assignment, ie doorway information. Pause the video, write possible differential diagnosis in your note.
Stage II: Watch the Standardize Patient and physician encounter (15 minutes). Write the important positive and negative finding in your note book. Also watch carefully what are the highlights of the encounter or what you will do differently. Watch how other people making mistakes. When the physician finishes history and physical exam and walks towards the booth to write his or her notes. Pause the video.
Stage III: Write or type your notes in exactly 10 minutes.
Stage IV: Watch the commentry by the professors.
Stage V: Read the patient notes provided in the handout mailed out to you by Premier Review.


text:
Leaders in the historic Colorado mining town of Crested Butte have unanimously approved a plan to turn it into the fictional "Whatever" town for a Bud Light ad campaign.
Town councilors only gave their OK only after Bud Light maker Anheuser-Busch InBev doubled its payment to $500,000.
Continue Reading Below
The Denver Post reports (http://dpo.st/YYwaQp ) fencing has already been installed for the Sept. 5-7 event that has divided the town.
The beer company has been working with town officials on the plan since the spring, but word only leaked out recently. In the meantime, the mysterious Bud Light event has been promoted online.
Bud Light marketing director David Daniels says the company picked the town for its beautiful location and its reputation for having fun.
Information from: The Denver Post, http://www.denverpost.com


text:
A bit more than 20 years ago, the following exercise was assigned to a class as the Christmas holiday exercise. I did search for a while whether it was posted here earlier, and could not find it. I guess I might as well ask it as a New Year's Eve riddle here. It was in German; I hope I can translate it in such a way that its spirit is preserved.
Two politicians are arguing who of the two of them is able to give the longest talk, without saying the same thing three times in a row. There is a problem, however, they both do only know 2 words, namely 'but' (B) and 'if' (I).
The first one begins 'B', the second one replies 'BI' which is countered by 'BIIB'. The second politician is quite bright, he simply repeats literally the last talk given by the other one, then takes that talk again but interchanges B and I and appends the result of this operation to the first talk. His opponent realizes this strategy and proceeds in the same way. So we get talks $$ B, B\, I, BI\, IB, BIIB\, IBBI, BIIB IBBI\, IBBIBIIB, ...$$ That is, the $k$-th talk $T_k$ has length $2^{k-1}$ and coincides with the first half of $T_{k+1}$.
A mathematician comes along, who has not much to contribute, either. But he solves the controversy in a mathematician's manner. He gives a talk $T$ of infinite length, such that the first $2^{k-1}$ words of $T$ agree with $T_k$. Afterwards (!) he leaves and leaves it to the politicians to prove that in his talk he had never said the same thing three times in a row, to be more precise, nowhere in his talk $T$ exists a segment $S$ of finite length which occurs three times as a sequence $SSS$ in $T$.
How do you prove this? :-)


text:
Diseñadores de todas las partes del mundo están proponiendo diseños creativos a guddo en la categoría de diseño logotipo - custom.
I'm looking for a professional, hip, gaming-looking logo to represent the second biggest gaming-café in Scandinavia.
AK47 Netcáfe
Desired Color Scheme:
I am open to color schemes that you feel will make it pop and fit the overall feel to the logo, but have (neon) blue in mind: as you see here at the template preview, colors which will be used is going to be the main theme color. Please keep the grey theme in mind.
Desired Style:
A 3D logo, used for the webpage, which can be converted to 2D (used for textil print, etc.) and look more or less similar. A plain version with the text: AK47 and a picture (or drawing) of a AK-47 Kalasjnikov on top, and a version where the Rifle is the 'K' in the name: A(K)47.
The logo must express: gaming, high quality, action, etc.
Accepted File Formats:
pdf, ai og psd (high resolution).
I'm looking for a professional, hip, gaming-looking logo to represent an Internet cafe. The logo must appeal to young people today but also in the future. It will be used on our buildings, business cards, websites, tee shirts/uniforms, vans, stationary, etc. I will look forward to seeing what excellent ideas you all come up with. This is the first time entering a listing so please forgive us if we leave out any information you need. The Café will launch the 20th of February.
I will answer any questions as quickly as possible. Good Luck!
This is the current website: http://ak47netcafe.dk/ (under Galleri you can see pictures of the cafés tables, where the current logo is lasered into the tables - a thing the new logo will be too).
Examples of our buildings facade:
First example - Second example - Third example - Fourth example - Fifth example - Sixth example - Seventh example
Here is examples of the textil print which is going to be done: First example - Second example - Third example.
Old logo layout (never used).
- Anything too achingly hip - this needs to appeal in ten years time as well as today.
- Anything fluffy and caring (we want young people to visit who aren't initially attracted to gaming).
- Solid colors the complements the rest of the site.
- Try to build the logo into the included top, it's not a must but will give an impression of how the logo could work on the website.
- The logo must be scalable and able to fit major buildings and vans.
- No pinks or feminine looking colors.
- Not too many colors.
Descubre cómo funciona un concurso de diseño u obtén más información sobre nuestros servicios de diseño de logo.


text:
Trees Are Planted – Hope They Grow
Dec 24 2010
Thanks to the generous help of my neighbor, the trees I mentioned in my Planting Trees post have now been planted this Christmas Eve morning. It took almost a couple of hours to plant both. It was the first time my kids and I had ever really planted trees and it was a fun experience. And as if to say the timing was right, it rained for about an hour a couple of hours after we finished to give those tries a nice drink.
I think it's a good skill to have to learn how to work with the earth. I used to mow our lawn when I was a kid and lived in Lubbock, Texas when I say about 11-13 years old until I accidentally ran over the power cord a couple of times. I think my mom decided it was safer to hire someone to mow the lawn then. Although, I drove her crazy as a teenager, I think she still wanted me to live. 🙂 I like to have plants around the house…even though they are in the background. It's nice to have green living things (with no pollen) in the house.
I told my kids that when they were older they could drive by the house in the neighborhood and tell their kids that they helped plant those big Oak and Elm trees because my guess is we probably won't be living in this house by the time the trees we planted are as big as the other trees in our neighborhood. The process got me wanting to plant another tree where the one we had rotted/fell down a few years ago. There are deer in our neighborhood so it will have to be a tree (maybe a flowering one like a crepe myrtle) that they don't like to eat.
Merry Christmas everyone. Here's to planting of new things and growing of new businesses in the New Year! (Yeah, I know that was an entrepreneurial stretch!)Author: Aruni | Filed under: environment, holiday, Just For Fun, national holiday | Tags: christmas eve, elm tree, lubbock, mowing lawns, oak tree, planting trees | 1 Comment »


text:
Boston is closed for business. Buses, trains and taxis are not running. Residents have been urged to stay indoors and lock their doors. The city looks like a ghost town.
The above photo, of the usually packed Downtown Crossing, comes from WBUR's Steve Brown. We've trolled social media and various Boston-area webcams for more images of the silent Hub. (If you find more, leave them in the discussion below.)
By Twitter user @cr3dit:
By Molly Oehmichen:


text:
Warm and Multifaceted
The Hollow Baby is a super light guitar—our review model weighed a mere 6.4 pounds—and comfortable to hold in both seated and standing playing positions. The neck is very comfortable as well, C-shaped and slim but not overly so. It has a Fender-style 25.5" scale length, but a relatively flat radius of 12"—more commonly encountered on Gibson guitars—allowing for wide bends without any danger of notes fretting out.
The Hollow Baby sounds loud and resonant before it ever meets an amplifier, thanks to its chambered build and thin nitro finish. Chords in all registers ring out with clarity, and single notes sound thick and snappy, with a pronounced midrange. The vibrato works well for adding subtle pitch-bending effects without disrupting the tuning.
With the neck pickup engaged and the tone rolled down, the guitar provides a warm Grant Green–like tone….with the tone turned up and the bridge pickup selected it has the twang of a Tele.
Plugged into a Fender Pro Junior, the guitar really comes alive. Overall, the guitar sounds warm with a great deal more sustain than that of a traditional hollow body guitar, and the pickups are indeed nice and quiet.
The P-90–equipped Hollow Baby sounds at home in a range of styles. With the neck pickup engaged and the tone rolled down, the guitar provides a warm Grant Green–like tone. In contrast, with the tone turned up and the bridge pickup selected it has the twang of a Tele, with both pickups engaged it has a Strat-like spank. The guitar also works well for rootsy type stuff from riffs in the manner of Elvis Presley's Scotty Moore to slack-tuned strumming à la Creedence Clearwater Revival leader John Fogerty. One application that the Hollow Body might not work well for is in situations calling for ultra high-gain, but then again, shredders wouldn't necessarily be drawn to this guitar.
The Verdict
Cole Clark's Hollow Baby is a smartly designed chambered electric with a unique vibe that typifies the whole Cole Clark range. The guitar combines elements of Fender, Gib-son, and even Bigsby design in a unique hybrid. Best though, it's featherweight and highly playable and offers a really wide range of hollow- and solidbody tones. And whether you're a working pro or a weekend guitarist trying to cover as much stylistic ground as possible—short of metal shred—you can't go wrong with a Hollow Baby.
Buy if...
you want a stylish chambered guitar that excels in a number of different contexts both in terms of playability and sound.
Skip if...
you're staunchly loyal to either Fender or Gibson.
Street $2230 - Cole Clark - coleclark-america.com


text:
The thing I cannot believe is how fast this political year went.
It seems like just yesterday when Newport Beach Councilwoman Leslie Daigle was the favorite for our newly redistricted 74th Assembly seat until spoiler Democrat Robert Rush jumped into place in the primary and then essentially handed the seat back to incumbent Republican Allan Mansoor of Costa Mesa.
From there, the months whizzed by, and while the Newport Beach City Council race was unreasonably quiet, the fire in Costa Mesa kept all the local opinionists busy, with a post-election hangover that still lingers.
For me, my first 10 months at the Daily Pilot have proved to be fascinating. While I experienced some colorful comments in my 22 months at the Newport Beach Independent, it only took a couple months at the Pilot for some anonymous commenter to ask for my home address so he could fight me, a few more months for a council member to threaten legal action, and another few months for a Costa Mesa council candidate's wife to call me creepy while I stood two feet away.
Add that to all the other colorful comments and emails I received and I'd say that it's been a good year. Plus, one reader still owes me $10 for a wager (she hasn't returned my emails for payment).
With Christmas zooming up, it is for those things, and all the good people I met, spoke with and shared meals with, I am thankful, and those memories are the best presents I could get.
So on to 2013 and my New Year's resolutions. Never mind that I've tried the resolutions before and usually break them by the end of the column, so let's see how 2013 will be for the Newport Beach political scene.
As an off-election year, it should be quiet, but fortunately the six republicans (small r on purpose) on the Newport Beach City Council decided to end the year by celebrating $131 million in new government loans in their shiny new Tax (Taj) Mahal/Civic Center/Espresso Stand/Dog Park in the — well, park. And how did they do it? By putting the final jewel in their triple crown of harbor fee increases.
With the Democrats, it's normally called tax and spend, but in Newport Beach, the republican city councils spent and then taxed (raised rents). The Newport Harbor and beaches are paid for with the Tidelands Management Budget, so with no discernible regard to income, they spent and spent, giving some of the full-time lifeguards $200,000 a year with pensions of more than $100,000 a year after they retire at the ripe old age of 50. The city spent so much, with more than 70% of this budget going to these salaries and pensions, that all of a sudden this budget was more than $10 million short each year.
Let's get the people who use the beaches and benefit the most from these well-paid lifeguards to pay the difference, right? Nope, let's get the mooring folks, then the commercial dock folks, and now the residential dock owners to pay for us to use the beaches and harbor.
So thanks goes out to you generous folks like Bob McCaffrey, John Vallely and Duffy Duffield for paying your additional dock fees to pay for the beach lifeguards who will watch over my young children at the beach. And a thank you goes to the Newport Beach council for having these harbor people cover the bill for the millions of annual beach visitors.
How 2013 turns out with this can make for a very, very interesting 2014 Newport Beach council race. Three open seats will be up for grabs, while Mayor Pro Tem Rush Hill will be up for re-election.
I look forward to the year of Mayor Keith Curry, part deux. In his first turn as mayor, Curry proved to be very patient, very fair and very regal, so I expect much more of the same, which will be very, very different than the local-feeling year of Mayor Nancy Gardner, and the very-under-the-radar year of Mayor Mike Henn. As far as mayors have gone, Newport Beach has enjoyed a great run for the past five years, and there's no reason to expect that to change in for 2013.
So to all of you, thank you for reading, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I look forward to your angry comments and fight challenges in 2013.
JACK WU is an accountant who lives in Newport Beach and practices in Costa Mesa. He is a longtime Republican Party loyalist and a volunteer campaign treasurer for Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-Costa Mesa). His column runs Sundays on the Daily Pilot Forum page. He can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com.


text:
Rapids head coach Gary Smith gathered his troops a day earlier than usual this week to fly off to Boston for this Saturday's game against the New England Revolution.
Rather than flying out the day before an East Coast road game, the approach this season will be different for Colorado. Smith, who typically leaves very little to chance, thinks that extra preparation in enemy territory should improve the camaraderie of the team.
"On a couple of occasions last year, we left the day before and we had some slight delays," Smith said. "I think the extra day gives us an opportunity to take the journey on the chin, train when we get there and get the flight out of our legs. And also, I think, mentally, if you go the day before, the players know it's a long journey, but we are here for a reason. Hopefully, it will give us that added percentage or two to win the game."
Smith and the Rapids are buoyed by a 2-1-1 start to the season that has them in the thick of things in the Western Conference, but New England's already had some early-season trouble. There's been some dynamic shifts with the Revs, including the retirement of Jay Heaps, new signings and the stop-start nature of influential midfielder Shalrie Joseph's availability.
"The New England side - 4-1 against Toronto - was nice and bright and purposeful," Smith said. "But there are some difficulties within that group because of relationships and fluency. I think Shalrie has a big impact on that. I think at the moment you are seeing a Shalrie New England and a non-Shalrie New England. They look like they are lacking a bit of an edge and maybe something a little bit different, which is what he brings."
Joseph has missed three of four matches this season with an injury, and Revs coach Steve Nicol said Friday that his superstar is unlikely to play on Saturday.
Smith also hopes that a new surface in Foxborough will be a little easier to play on than last year, when the Rapids eked out a 1-1 tie.
"From what I've been told, it's a better surface," he said. "Last year, it was really greasy. The turf had lost all its life. This year, the players, I am sure, are looking forward to playing on that."
New England's potential vulnerabilities and field improvements aside, Smith knows it will be his team that can shape their own destiny. Never a man to give anything away about his line-up, he did indicate that the hardman duo of Pablo Mastroeni and Jeff Larentowicz, returning to his old club, will be the keys to the Rapids midfield.
More surprisingly, he also hinted that in-form Wells Thompson may get the start ahead of either Jamie Smith or Colin Clark on one of the flanks. Thompson, also a former Revolution player, has so far come on off the bench in all four MLS league games this season for the Rapids. He scored both goals in the recent U.S. Open Cup victory over Kansas City.
"When Wells came on, he didn't do anything that was overly cultured but I just thought it was all really confident and positive," Smith said of his winger's performance Sunday in the 3-1 victory over Toronto. "At the moment, for one reason or another, Colin (Clark) and Jamie (Smith) at the weekend were a little bit too precise and not as positive as I would have liked."
Whatever the starting eleven, the Rapids' squad is going East with confidence.
"The group has always been a lot clearer in their mind when you just say: 'Listen, go and be positive," he said. "It's a game we can win, that we will be looking to win. The group should be extremely confident going there that they can do that. Whoever plays should be really positive about the outlook."


text:
Periodic TableIdea by Mahendra pratap Choudhary | added on Jan 12, 2012 08:12AM Suggestion
Periodic Table is the heart of chemistry and if it is explained to the students in their younger age, it will be easier for them to learn and memorize it.
My daughter Poorvie Choudhary, just 10 years old and studying in V std. has not only memorized the coomplete Periodic Table but also set 5 World Records in it during the IYC 2011. She is the youngest person to recite the names, symbols and write the Periodic Table in fastest time also. She takes just 13.14 seconds to recite all the 118 names of elements and 14.40 seconds to recite the symbols of 118 elements.
|periodic table
|students, teachers, scientists, researchers
Want to post your own idea or comment?
To post an idea or add a comment, you need to be part of the IYC network. Please log in or sign up now.
Join the IYC Network


text:
DCUniverseAficionado wrote:Saw you uploaded a new AMV to YouTube—watched it and enjoyed it!
Thanks man! (^-^)
It's a bit of a stretch calling it new since it's a re-upload but still, thanks!
Btw, I've started to continue from where I left off in the vermouth manga, I'm working with the 4th and 5th page


text:
We've had a sneak peak at the IAEA's six-page report on Iran's nuclear program that has just been issued. Here are what appear to me to be key portions:
4. Iran has continued the testing of P-1 centrifuges in the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant (PFEP). Since 6 June 2006, centrifuges in the single machine test stand and in the 10-machine and 20-machine cascades have been run mostly under vacuum, but with the feeding of UF6 into single machines of the 20-machine cascade for short periods of time. Between 6 and 8 June 2006, the 164-machine cascade was also tested with UF6. Further testing of the 164-machine cascade with UF6 was carried out between 23 June and 8 July 2006. During these tests, a total of approximately 6 kg of UF6 was fed into the machines and enriched to various levels of U-235. The feeding of UF6 into the 164-machine cascade was resumed on 24 August 2006.
5. In June 2006, Iran stated that it had achieved enrichment levels of 5% U-235 in a test run in the 164-machine cascade. Iran provided measurement results from the on-line mass spectrometer to substantiate this statement. The Agency collected environmental samples, the results of which are still pending. Iran has refused the Agency access to operating records concerning product and tail assays which the Agency requires to complete its auditing activities. However, on 30 August 2006, Iran provided the Agency with some information about product assays, which the Agency is currently assessing.
6. The installation of a second 164-machine cascade is proceeding. Iran has informed the Agency that it expects to be able to run the cascade under vacuum in September 2006. In August 2006, the Agency installed additional cameras to monitor this cascade. The Agency has also proposed the implementation of remote monitoring to compensate for the fact that measures normally used for verification at operational enrichment facilities (e.g. limited frequency unannounced access) are not feasible at PFEP. However, Iran continues to decline to discuss the implementation of remote monitoring at PFEP.
7. On 26 July 2006, design information verification (DIV) was carried out at the Fuel Enrichment Plant (FEP) at Natanz, where construction was ongoing. In the course of the inspectors' visit to Iran between 11 and 16 August 2006, Iran declined to provide the Agency with access to carry out DIV at FEP, stating that the frequency of DIV activities was, in its view, too high and that the Agency had performed 3 DIVs there in 2003, 3 DIVs in 2004, 15 DIVs in 2005 and 12 DIVs as of August 2006.
Iran also expressed concern about the frequency of DIV at PFEP, the Uranium Conversion Facility (UCF) and the Iran Nuclear Research Reactor (IR-40). The Agency explained that DIV was an ongoing and continuing process, and that it is carried out during all construction, commissioning, operation and subsequent phases of a facility to establish the safeguards measures to be implemented and to ensure that there are no undeclared design features which would permit the diversion of nuclear material. Between December 2003 and February 2006, the Agency, with the consent of Iran, also took advantage of DIV activities to monitor Iran's suspension of enrichment activities. The Agency explained that DIV also enables the Director General to fulfil the reporting requirements set by the Board of Governors and the Security Council. Between 26 and 30 August 2006, Iran allowed the Agency access to carry out DIV at FEP and at the other facilities mentioned above.
B. Suspension of Reprocessing Activities
8. The Agency has been monitoring the use of hot cells at the Tehran Research Reactor and the Molybdenum, Iodine and Xenon Radioisotope Production Facility, and the construction of hot cells at the IR-40, through inspections, DIV and satellite imagery. There are no indications of ongoing reprocessing activities in Iran.
C. Heavy Water Research Reactor
9. On 12 July and 30 August 2006, the Agency carried out DIV at the IR-40 reactor at Arak. Construction of the facility is continuing.
D. Outstanding Issues
10. As indicated in the Director General's report of April 2006 (GOV/2006/27, para. 6), on 27 April 2006, the Agency received from Iran a letter in which it was stated that "Iran is fully prepared to continue granting the Agency's inspection in accordance with the Comprehensive Safeguards provided that the Iran's nuclear dossier will remain, in full, in the framework of the Agency and under its safeguards, the Islamic Republic of Iran is prepared to resolve the remaining outstanding issues reflected in [the Director General's] report GOV/2006/15 of 27 February 2006, in accordance with the international laws and norms. In this regard, Iran will provide a time table within next three weeks."
No such timetable has as yet been received.
E.2. Other Matters
23. Between the end of July 2006 and 29 August 2006, Iran declined to provide one-year multiple entry visas to designated Agency inspectors as agreed to by Iran in the Subsidiary Arrangements to its Safeguards Agreement. On 30 August 2006, Iran provided such visas for two inspectors, and on 31 August 2006 informed the Agency that "following the normal administration process the multiple one year visa for remaining designated inspectors will be issued by 10 September 2006".
F. Transparency Measures
24. Analysis of the environmental samples taken from equipment at a technical university in January 2006, referred to in paragraph 25 of GOV/2006/27, showed a small number of particles of natural and high enriched uranium. This equipment had been shown to the Agency in connection with its investigation into efforts made by the Physics Research Centre (PHRC) to acquire dual use material and equipment (GOV/2006/27, paras 24–25).
25. Iran has not yet responded to the Agency's requests for clarification concerning, and access to carry out environmental sampling of, other equipment and materials related to the PHRC. Nor has Iran provided the Agency with access to interview the other former Head of the PHRC. As noted in GOV/2006/38, paragraph 17, the clarification and access sought by the Agency have taken on added importance in light of the results of the environmental sampling referred to in the previous paragraph.
26. The Agency has continued to follow up on information concerning studies related to the so-called Green Salt Project, to high explosives testing and to the design of a missile re-entry vehicle z9GOV/2006/27, paras 27–29). However, Iran has not expressed any readiness to discuss these topics since the issuance of the Director General's report in February 2006 (GOV/2006/15, paras 38–39).
G. Summary
27. Iran has been providing the Agency with access to nuclear material and facilities, and has provided the required reports. Although Iran has provided the Agency with some information concerning product assays at PFEP, Iran continues to decline Agency access to certain operating records at PFEP.
28. Iran has not addressed the long outstanding verification issues or provided the necessary transparency to remove uncertainties associated with some of its activities. Iran has not suspended its enrichment related activities; nor has Iran acted in accordance with the provisions of the Additional Protocol.
29. The Agency will continue to pursue its investigation of all remaining outstanding issues relevant to Iran's nuclear activities. However, the Agency remains unable to make further progress in its efforts to verify the correctness and completeness of Iran's declarations with a view to confirming the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear programme. The Director General will continue to report as appropriate.
The time is now.
JOHN adds: Since this kind of reading can be mind-numbing, I bolded the key paragraph. Read as a whole, the IAEA report states flatly that Iran is not cooperating. The mullahs are basically telling the U.N. to get lost. The next move is up to us.
John Bolton says that the Security Council must now take action, in the form of sanctions. But the AP reports that the kinds of sanctions on the table are feeble at best:
The State Department has not said publicly what type of punishment it might seek. But U.S. and European officials have indicated they might push for travel restrictions on Iranian officials or a ban on sale of dual-use technology to Iran. The hope is to start with relatively low-level punishments in a bid to attract Russian and Chinese support, the officials have said.
Does anyone seriously think that this sort of action will deter Iran from becoming a nuclear power? Presumably not. President Bush said today that "the world now faces a grave threat from the radical regime in Iran." There is an obvious disproportion between the gravity of the threat and the meagre steps now contemplated to counter it.
The biggest problem with the whole U.N. process, in my opinion, is that it can become an excuse for inaction. Many people will gladly accept the illusion that the U.N. is "doing something," when in fact, Iran is proceeding with all possible speed to create nuclear weapons, and there isn't a thing the U.N. can do to prevent it.


text:
Product Search
Special Offer
Deluxe Devon Only Hamper
from The Local Food Company, Devon
SRP £95.00 Now Only £95.00
What's in Season
Here we are in Flaming July, and for a moment at least it actually is quite scorching down here in Devon. If you haven't been lured in by all the fast food sponsors of a particular sporting event, this month is the perfect time to start sampling British produce. Apricots, blueberries, courgettes, french beans and tomatoes should all be ready now. From the butchery counter, try welsh lamb, farm reared free range chicken or delicious rabbit. And if you're relaxing in the sun, take a look at our West Country beers and ciders to refresh you.
- Bakery
- Dairy
- Meat & Fish
- Fruit & Vegetables
- Prepared Ready Meals
- Groceries & Drinks
- Household
- Hampers & Gifts
- Special Offers
Latest News
- Tell me what food is seasonal now... [more]
- Free range chicken and produce... [more]
- Cut your own herbs and cut costs... [more]
- Children and Young People's Diets... [more]
Newsletter Sign Up


text:
My intelligence officers have informed me that the outlaws are planning an invasion as revenge for the Clear the swamps act! Those cowards have chosen to fight us as we are still recovering from the wounds of our civil war! Let us show them that we are yet still strong by posting a (small) scene of brave lenfel knights brutally massacring those outlaw fiends against all odds!
Andar of Lenfald rides out with Kole and the Lenfald army from the Strongbourough Castle to ambush and drive the back to their own country!


text:
Celebrating the accomplished woman and her passion for cycling, adventure and the camaraderie of her peers, Vesta Velo is a small bicycle touring company just for women. Virginia and Jeanne want to share with you our favorite cycling challenges and the extraordinary vistas that keep us pedaling to 'just beyond that next hill' whether in New Hampshire, Maine, or Texas.
Come ride with us for a weekend or a week - we take care of all the details. Our tour prices include all lodging, food, transport, taxes and gratuities. And, each of our fully supported bike tours offer different riding options so you can pick your own pace and mileage. Beginner to advanced, Virginia & Jeanne guide each tour so we are quite flexible.
Our mission is to kindle the flame that cycling inspires in those of us who choose to see the world on two wheels. We are mothers, daughters, grandmothers, sisters, aunts and friends. And, we are all guardians of the fires that burn brightly in our souls when we are doing what we love.
If you're interested in a Canadian bike trip, our friends at Two-Wheeling Women Bike Tours offer a 6-night/7-day fully supported women's
only bike tour of Prince Edward Island. Check out their
Prince Edward Island Tip to Tip - Fully-Supported tour.


text:
News & Events
For the Media
Venus and the Golden Ratio at Next Clarkson University Science Cafe
"Venus and the Golden Ratio" will be discussed by stargazer Bruce McClure at the next Science Café on Tuesday, October 29, at 7:15 p.m. in the Park View Common Room, above the Blackbird Cafe, 107 Main St. in Canton, and on Wednesday, October 30, at 7:15 p.m. in the Potsdam Civic Center Community Room in Potsdam, N.Y.
Venus reaches a milestone as the evening "star" on November 1. Learn how Venus' evening elongation is linked to numerous of Venus' cycles, plus this planet's intriguing relationship to Phi (the Golden Ratio) and the Fibonacci numbers. Make friends with the Golden Triangle and the pentagram and gain a lifelong appreciation for Venus, the goddess of beauty.
Join McClure, script writer for the nationally syndicated radio programs "StarDate" and "Earth and Sky," as he explores the inherent beauty of the many of Venus' cycles that recur five times every eight Earth years and every 13 Venusian years.
Science Cafes bring together engineers, scientists and townspeople in a relaxed, informal setting, such as coffeehouses and pubs. The speaker makes a short presentation about a topic in his or her field, and then opens up the floor to discussion.
Find out more about Clarkson's Science Cafe at http://www.clarkson.edu/sciencecafe.
E-mail Daniel ben-Avraham at firstname.lastname@example.com with any questions or suggestions for future Science Cafe topics.
Clarkson University launches leaders into the global economy. One in five alumni already leads as a CEO, VP or equivalent senior executive of a company. Located just outside the Adirondack Park in Potsdam, N.Y., Clarkson is a nationally recognized research university for undergraduates with select graduate programs in signature areas of academic excellence directed toward the world's pressing issues. Through 50 rigorous programs of study in engineering, business, arts, sciences and health sciences, the entire learning-living community spans boundaries across disciplines, nations and cultures to build powers of observation, challenge the status quo, and connect discovery and engineering innovation with enterprise.
[A photograph for media use is available at http://www.clarkson.edu/news/photos/bmclure.jpg .]


text:
Wabash Mourns John H. Schroeder '42by Jim Amidon • April 5, 2011 Share:
All at Wabash College mourn the loss of devoted alumnus and long-time Trustee John H. Schroeder '42, who passed away Monday. He was 90 years old.
He is survived by his wife, Ginny, and two sons, John C. '69 and Richard, and their families.
Visitation will be Thursday, April 7 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Alexander's Funeral Home (East Side) at 2115 Lincoln Avenue in Evansville, Indiana 47714. The funeral service will be at Neu Chapel on the University of Evansville campus, beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 8. (Please note that Evansville is on Central Daylight Time.)
"John H. Schroeder was a great Wabash man, a loyal son whose family has meant so much to Wabash," said President Patrick White. "He served on the Board of Trustees from 1982 to 1994 and as an Emeritus Trustee since then. The Schroeder Center for Career Development and the endowed John H. Schroeder Interdisciplinary Chair in Economics, currently held by Dr. Keoloha Widdows, are two outward signs of John's love and commitment to Wabash and the place he will hold forever in our hearts."
Schroeder was a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Wabash who majored in economics with a minor in history. At Wabash, he served as president of Phi Gamma Delta and the Board of Publications, and was a member of Blue Key and a writer for The Bachelor. He received an M.B.A. from the Harvard University of Business School.
John founded three companies — Crescent Plastics Inc., Cresline Plastic Pipe Company, Inc., and Wabash Plastics, Inc. Cresline is one of the largest plastic pipe and fittings manufacturers in the United States.
In 1989, Wabash awarded John an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree, and in 1992 the National Association of Wabash Men presented him an Alumni Award of Merit. In 1991, he was inducted in The Indiana Academy for his professional and civic leadership.
In addition to his love of Wabash, John also served as Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of the University of Evansville, and later helped guide the university through the aftermath of a terrible plane crash that killed every member and coach of the university's basketball team. He received the university's highest distinction, the Medal of Honor, in 1981, and he was granted an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree.
With other members of his family, John established the Schroeder Family School of Business Administration at the University of Evansville. The school's mission is to provide a life-transforming, high quality, innovative business education within a liberal arts and sciences framework.
Schroeder was a member and served on the board of the Washington Avenue Presbyterian Church. He was also president of the United Fund of Southwestern Indiana, the Vanderburgh County Society for Crippled Children and Adults, the Vanderburgh County Tuberculosis and Respiratory Disease Association, Goodwill Industries, and the Rotary Club. He also served as a board member of Old National Bank, Evansville Federal Savings and Loan Association, Southern Indiana Gas and Electric Company, Welborn Hospital, to name a few.


text:
cool editor, good job
This is a developer release so I'm not rating anything.
After reading the module's documentation, my body temperature went up 5°C. What! there are already modules that do that. Then I saw who wrote the module and instead it's 5 stars for the effort and finally doing something instead for just talking :) but less starts for:
- Releasing a 'cpan installable editor' that doesn't install from cpan
- Reinventing the wheel, when there is already a module that does most of what kephra does (OK, Herbert must have had the code laying around anyway)
- Not having tests
- Having a crossplatform app that only exist for the win32 platform on its website
Time will tell


text:
Back during the speculation-crazed days of the 90s it seemed like there were collectable trading cards for everything. There were cards dedicated to blues guitarists, attacking dinosaurs, sexy robots, serial killers, and even the Iran-Contra Scandal… and yes, even sets dedicated to comic book creators.
Check out this great collection of comic creator cards featuring some of the industry's greatest talents, from Moebius to Wally Wood to Harvey Pekar to Bob Kane (pictured here). They are awesomely cool and nerdy!


text:
Just in time for summer, these awesome�looking tank tops feel just as cool as they look. Design them yourself in a variety of sizes and styles�you can make tank tops for men or tanks for women, and choose options like racerback, sleeveless, spaghetti strap and others. The design? That's absolutely up to you. Speak your mind, tell a joke, share who you are, display an image�this is a shirt that, even with one arm tied behind its back, shares its attitude with style.
Plus the more tank tops you order, the more you can say (and the less expensive they are!). So go ahead�design for the team, the group, the family, the sisterhood, what have you. Or simply design some for yourself�in other words, choose all for one, or one for all! With these fabulous tanks, you'll want a bunch because summer has never felt so awesomely cool. No minimum order required.


text:
Cold air, early night and a stark landscape elevate the beauty of the simplest things in winter - a candle's flame, a ring of evergreens, the tarnished trinkets that reflect the delicate light. Such thoughts inspired the scene above; the wreath uses a sturdy Fraser fir wreath as a base, complements of Green Valley Christmas trees. In the center I added some cedar sprigs and a ring of bright green boxwood cut from the yard. Glass ornaments add a subtle luster."Yet in thy dark streets shineth, The everlasting Light, The hopes and fears of all the years, Are met in thee tonight."
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Fir, Boxwood, Cedar & Light
9 comments:
- Holly Springett said...
Beautiful images, love the subtle shades of the wreath!
- December 26, 2010 at 9:38 AM
- Stacy's Designs 88 said...
Wishing you a very merry day after Christmas! Stacy
- December 26, 2010 at 12:07 PM
- Emom said...
- December 26, 2010 at 12:31 PM
- Kathy Martin said...
Beautiful scene! Love the wreath!
- December 26, 2010 at 3:50 PM
- Auntie Bliss said...
Fresh greens are the best! Pretty photo :)
- December 26, 2010 at 8:14 PM
- OneKindWord said...
I could look at pictures of holiday wreaths all day long! This is a beauty!
- December 28, 2010 at 7:23 AM
- Kirsten said...
Gorg....I adore your home. So pretty!
- December 29, 2010 at 7:10 AM
- Goads said...
Beautiful! Very white and clean! I love the wreath.
- December 30, 2010 at 4:13 PM
- Wedding Flowers Co said...
Love the evergreen wreath and how you set up the candle. Gorgeous!
- April 17, 2011 at 1:34 PM
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
A Brief History of the Bisexual Movement
|Early Days
Bisexuals have been part of the modern Lesbian and Gay Civil Rights and Liberation Movement since at least the mid-1960s. For a variety of reasons bisexuals have also organized separately while continuing to be active in gay, lesbian and other progressive movements.
Throughout the 1970s while popular press articles focused on "bisexual chic" in the club scene and among celebrities such as Elton John, David Bowie and Patti Smith, bisexual groups formed in several large US cities signaling the birth of the modern Bisexual Civil Rights and Liberation Movement.
1966 – Stephen Donaldson (nee Robert Martin, 1946-1996) founds the Student Homophile League at Columbia University and New York University; in 1967 Columbia University is first in United States to officially recognize a gay student group.
|Early Days
1969-1970 – Brenda Howard (1946-2005) conceives and coordinates a one-month Stonewall Rebellion anniversary rally, and later, a one year march and celebration. This became the annual New York City Pride March that, in turn, spawned Pride Marches around the country and the world.
1972 – The National Bisexual Liberation Group forms in New York. Within three years, more than 5,500 members in 10 US chapters receive what is probably the earliest bisexual newsletter, The Bisexual Expression.
1975 – Bi Forum, a social, educational, and support group, forms in New York "to encourage awareness of bisexual issues in a non threatening and non judgmental environment." At its peak in 1980, BiForum has more than 200 active members and a mailing list of several thousand.
1976 – The San Francisco Bisexual Center, the longest surviving bisexual community center, opens its doors. A social and educational organization, it offers counseling and support services to Bay Area bisexuals and publishes a newsletter, The Bi Monthly, from 1976 to 1984.
1977 – Alan Rockway, a psychologist and bisexual activist, co-authors the nation's first successful gay rights ordinance put to public vote, in Dade County, Florida. When former Miss America and orange juice spokesperson, Anita Bryant, initiates her viciously homophobic "Save Our Children" campaign in response to the ordinance, Dr. Rockway conceives of and initiates a national "gaycott" of Florida orange juice. The Florida Citrus Commission cancels Ms. Bryant's million dollar contract as a result of the "gaycott."
1977 – The San Francisco Bisexual Center, in coalition with members of the gay and lesbian community, sponsor a press conference with lesbian activists Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon, and pediatrician Dr. Benjamin Spock to protest Anita Bryant's "Save Our Children" campaign.
1978-79 – Grassroots bisexual communities grow with the formation of Midwestern groups such as One To Five and BI Women Welcome in Minneapolis, The BI Married Men's Group in the Detroit suburbs, and BI Ways in Chicago.
1979 – A. Billy S. Jones, bisexual founding member of National Coalition of Black Lesbians and Gays, helps organize the first black gay delegation to meet with President Carter's White House staff. Jones is also a core organizer of the 1979 March On Washington for Gay and Lesbian Rights.
|Early Days
In the 1980s, bisexual groups mushroomed around the country and the world. Throughout the 1980s bisexuals organized significantly in the US, Canada, Europe, New Zealand, and the UK. In addition to the various social and support groups arising locally across the nation, by the mid-1980s umbrella groups formed to consolidate resources and facilitate regional organizing.
While the groups of the 1970s were often predominantly male, in the 1980s bisexual women took the organizational lead. Many of these woman had been working in the Lesbian and Women's Movements and the groups they formed often reflected their feminist politics.
Also among the new groups were those formed specifically for bisexual political activism. By the late 1980s, AIDS activism and service became the focus for many bisexuals in response to the impact the epidemic was having on the community.
1983 – The Boston Bisexual Women's Network (f. 1983), the oldest extant bisexual women's group, begins publishing their bi-monthly newsletter, BI Women. The longest-lived bisexual newsletter in the US, more than 600 people currently receive BI Women.
1983 – BiPOL, the first and oldest bisexual political organization, forms in San Francisco. Founded on progressive feminist principles, BiPOL "educates, advocates, and agitates for bisexual rights, visibility and inclusion."
1984 – After a two year battle, BiPOL activist, AIDS educator, and therapist Dr. David Lourea persuades the San Francisco Department of Public Health to recognize bisexual men in their official AIDS statistics. This acknowledgment sets the standard for health departments nationwide which previously had recognized only gay men. This acknowledgment is significant because it forces health care providers to recognize the existence of bisexual men, their potential risk for contracting HIV, and their need to be targeted for HIV prevention education.
1984 – BiPOL sponsors the first Bisexual Rights Rally outside the 1984 Democratic National Convention in San Francisco. The rally features nine speakers from civil rights groups allied with the Bisexual Movement.
1984 – The First East Coast Conference on Bisexuality is held at the Storrs School of Social Work at the Univ. of Conn. About 150 people participate in what is the first regional bisexual conference in the US.
1984 – The Boston Bisexual Men's Network (BBMN) forms to address the social and support needs of bisexual men in the greater Boston area. At its peak in 1988, about 150 people are receiving their newsletter, Boston Bisexual Men's Network News.
1985 – The Bisexual Connection, a social and support organization serving the greater Twin Cities Area forms in Minneapolis. Currently 350 people receive their newsletter, BI Focal.
1985 – Bisexual organizing on the East Coast reaches a new level of sophistication as the East Coast Bisexual Network forms. ECBN sponsors annual regional conferences and retreats between 1985 and 1989 that draw from 150-250 people representing 10 eastern states.
1986 – BiPOL's Autumn Courtney is elected co-chair of San Francisco's Lesbian Gay Freedom Day Pride Parade Committee. This election marks the first time an openly bisexual person holds this or a comparable position in the US.
1987 – A contingent of 75 bisexuals marches in the 1987 March On Washington For Gay and Lesbian Rights. This event proves to be the first nationwide bisexual gathering. The first national bisexual organization is conceived at this gathering, The North American Bisexual Network. NABN would later change its name to BiNet USA. The article "The Bisexual Movement: Are We Visible Yet?" appears in the official Civil Disobedience Handbook for the March.
1987 – The New York Area Bisexual Network (NYABN), a tri-state regional group which forms in 1987 spearheads an anti-defamation campaign that carries into the 1990s. For example, in response to an October 1989 Cosmopolitan magazine article that maliciously stereotypes bisexual men as dishonest spreaders of AIDS, NYABN initiates a letter writing campaign. Cosmopolitan has printed no articles defaming bisexuals since the campaign.
1987 – The Bay Area Bisexual Network (BABN) forms in the San Francisco Bay Area. BABN publishes a newsletter, sponsors monthly educational forums, and coordinates a speakers bureau. Currently BABN has about 1000 members.
1988 – Members of the Philadelphia-based group, BI Unity (f. 1987), successfully lobby the Philadelphia Mayor's Commission on Sexual Minorities to form a work group on bisexual issues.
1988 – Gary North publishes Bisexuality: News, Views, and Networking, the first national bisexual newsletter.
1988 – The Seattle Bisexual Women's Network (f. 1985) works with Seattle city agencies throughout the late 1980s to educate service providers and policy makers about bisexual issues. For example, in 1988 SBWN testifies at the Seattle Commission On Children and Youth Public Hearings On Gay and Lesbian Youth and at the Seattle Women's Commission of the Mayor's office . Both appearances result in increased bisexual recognition in Seattle government agencies. SBWN has published a bimonthly newsletter, North BI Northwest, since 1988.
1988 – The Bisexual Committee Engaging in Politics (BiCEP), a bisexual political/educational group forms in Boston. BiCEP's most enduring contribution are many of the educational pamphlets currently available through the Bisexual Resource Center.
1989 – Openly bisexual veteran Cliff Arnesen testifies before the US Congress on behalf of gay, lesbian and bisexual veteran's issues. Arnesen is the first veteran to testify about gay, lesbian and bisexual issues and the first openly non-heterosexual veteran to testify on Capitol Hill about veteran's issues in general.
1989 – Seattle Bisexual Men's Union (SBMU), an anti-sexist men's education and support group, forms. Members organize a support presence at the annual Women Take Back The Night marches. As a result of continuing testimony by SBMU, the current draft of Seattle's city plan (which includes housing codes) now recognizes families headed by same-gender partnerships.
1989 – BiPAC, the New York-based Bisexual Political/Public Action Committee which forms in 1989, challenges biphobia in the lesbian and gay community with a national letter writing campaign in 1990. The campaign successfully persuades an educational institution to remove an offensive workshop it offers called "Bisexual Men: Fact or Fiction?"
1990s (National and International Consolidation)
|Early Days
In the 1990s, the bisexual political community expands and consolidates with national and international coalitions. Regional conferences strengthen smaller and newer communities, especially in the Midwest and the South. Bisexual groups continue to form as awareness and discussion of bisexuality broadens. Although the list is incomplete and growing daily, according to The Bisexual Resource Guide (published by the Bisexual Resource Center) there are currently more than 1300 bisexual groups in 48 US states, Washington, DC and 19 countries.
JUNE 1990 – BiPOL sponsors the first National Bisexual Conference in San Francisco. More than 450 people attend from 20 states and 5 countries. The mayor of S.F. sends a proclamation "commending the bisexual rights community for its leadership in the cause of social justice," declaring June 23, 1990 Bisexual Pride Day. The North American Bisexual Network (NABN) is formalized as the North American Multicultural Bisexual Network (NAMBN) at this first meeting of its members. The conference inspires attendees from Dallas to create the first bisexual group in Texas, BiNet Dallas.
FALL 1990 – Susan Carlton offers the first academic course on bisexuality in the US at UC Berkeley.
WINTER 1991 – The Bay Area Bisexual Network begins publishing the first and only national bisexual quarterly magazine, Anything That Moves: Beyond The Myths Of Bisexuality.
OCTOBER 1991 – The First International Conference on Bisexuality is held at Vrije University in Amsterdam. About 250 people attend from nine countries.
FEBRUARY 1992 – The Bisexual Connection (Minnesota) sponsors the First Annual Midwest Regional Bisexual Conference. BECAUSE (Bisexual Empowerment Conference: A Uniting, Supportive Experience) draws close to 150 people from at least five midwestern states each year.
APRIL 1992 – Minnesota amends its State Civil Rights Law to grant the most comprehensive civil rights protections for bisexual, lesbian, gay, and transgender people in the country. Minnesota's bisexual community unites with lesbian, gay, and transgender groups to lobby for this statute.
NOVEMBER 1992 – The South Florida Bisexual Network (f. 1989) and the Florida International University's Stonewall Students Union co-sponsor the First Annual Southeast Regional Bisexual Conference. Thirty-five people from at least four southeastern states attend.
OCTOBER 1992 – The 2nd International Bisexual Conference is held in London. More than 130 people attend from 13 countries. German bisexuals announce the establishment of a national bisexual network in Germany.
NOVEMBER 1992 – Colorado votes to deny civil rights protection for bisexual, lesbian, and gay people by passing Amendment 2, the first such amendment to pass by popular vote in the US. The Colorado Supreme Court declares the measure unconstitutional in October, 1994. The case is bound for the US Supreme Court.
FEBRUARY 1993 – BiNet USA, the Seattle Bisexual Women's Network and the Seattle Bisexual Men's Union sponsor the First Annual Northwest Regional Conference, in Seattle. Fifty-five people representing Washington, Oregon, Alaska, Montana, and British Columbia attend.
SPRING 1993 – The East Coast Bisexual Network revises its mandate and changes its name to the Bisexual Resource Center (BRC). As an international resource on bisexuality, the BRC provides educational services and materials, publishes The Bisexual Resource Guide annually, and maintains an international bisexual archive.
APRIL 1993 – BiPOL (San Francisco) mobilizes a successful nationwide lobbying campaign for visible bisexual inclusion in the March On Washington. Openly bisexual people take key leadership roles in local and regional organizing for the 1993 March on Washington for Lesbian, Gay and Bi Equal Rights and Liberation. As a result, for the first time bisexuals are included in the title of the March and are represented on the stage by bisexual activist and author Lani Ka'ahumanu. More than 1000 people march with the bisexual contingent in addition to the uncounted bisexuals who marched with other groups. This event signifies the national recognition and growing awareness of bisexual issues and the increasing grassroots power of the bisexual community.
APRIL 1993 – In an unprecedented coalition of national and nationally-recognized bisexual groups, BiNet USA, the Bisexual Resource Center (BRC), and the Washington, DC-based Alliance of Multicultural Bisexuals (AMBi) sponsor the Second National Conference Celebrating Bisexuality in Washington, DC to coincide with the March On Washington. More than 600 people attend from the US and Europe making it the largest Bisexual Conference to date.
OCTOBER 1993 – San Diego, CA based BiForum (f.1982) hosts BiWest 1993, a western regional bisexual conference. More than 250 people attend from at least five states and three countries.
FALL 1993 – Sheela Lambert writes, produces, and hosts the first television series by and for the bisexual community. Bisexual Network successfully airs for 13 weeks on NYC Public Access Cable.
JUNE 1994 – Bisexual communities based in Fayetteville, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Charlotte unite to form the North Carolina Bisexual Network (NCBN). In October 1994, NCBN sponsors the Second Annual Southeast Regional Bisexual Conference. Approximately 100 people attend from 11 states.
JUNE 1994 – New York hosts the Third International Bisexual Conference in conjunction with the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion, the symbolic origin of the Gay and Lesbian Rights and Liberation Movement. About 400 people attend from at least five countries. The visible bisexual presence at the celebration signifies our link to the past: bisexuals fought in the Stonewall Rebellion of 1969, and celebrate the changes it has inspired in the present.
OCT 1994 – The 4th International Conference on Bisexuality was held in New York, NY.
OCT 1996 – The 5th International Conference on Bisexuality was held in Berlin, Germany
APR 1998 – The 5th International Conference on Bisexuality was held in Cambridge, MA.
SEPT 1999 – BiNet USA coordinators Michael Page, Gigi Raven Wilbur, and Wendy Curry organized the first Celebrate Bisexuality Day.
|Early Days
AUG 2000 – The 6th International Conference on Bisexuality was held in Manchester, UK.
2000 – The BiNet Tri-state (NJ/PA/CT) regional conference voted to become an independant entity.
2001 – The BiNet tristate conference expanded the scope of the conference in two ways: expanding the geographical reach of the conference to include the entire Northeast, and including transgender and intersex issues as well as bisexual issues in the conference theme. they changed the name to Transcending Boundaries
OCT 2002 – The 7th International Conference on Bisexuality was held in Sydney, New South Wales, AU
AUG 2004 – The 8th International Conference on Bisexuality was held in Minneapolis, MN.
JUN 2006 – The 9th International Conference on Bisexuality was held in Toronto.
OCT 2006 – Transcending Boundaries conference was held in Worcester, MA.
2007: Participated in the development of the report Bisexual health: An introduction and model practices for HIV/STI prevention programming with the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and Fenway Health.
2008: Partnered with Rock the Vote to encourage participation in the American electoral process.
2009: Working in coalition with dozens of organizers, BiNet USA developed a response to potential bisexual erasure at the 2009 National Equality March in Washington D.C. Penelope Williams, an Afro-latina, bisexual, and differently abled advocate is given the opportunity to speak on behalf of bisexual community. Williams also introduces Lady Gaga, a proud bisexual singer.
2010: Partnered with the U.S. Census to do bisexual specific outreach, because our families count too!
2013: The Bisexual Resource Center and BiNet USA co-organized the 1st Bisexual Community Issues Roundtable at the White House in Sept 2013.
2014: BiNet USA President Faith Cheltenham is invited to witness a Executive Order signing as a stage participant. Cheltenham also meets privately with President Obama, being the first president of a bisexual non-profit to do so alongside other national LGBT leaders.


text:
Version: 1.0
Platforms: Series 60, Symbian OS, UIQ
Developer: Valeriy V. Skachko
Distribution Type: Freeware
Downloads: 2731
File Size: 201 Kb
Socionic S60 Free - Socionic test. Relations between people are predictable, believe the adherents of socionics?a comparatively new psychological theory. These relations exist between the 16 personality types, to one of which you belong as well.


text:
Vision Statement
The vision of the Chickasha Chamber of Commerce is to be a proactive business organization with an influential voice dedicated to economic success and an abundant quality of life.
Our Great City
Chickasha has a great quality of life. The city provides all the services and stores one needs to shop locally with a small town atmosphere. It is located within 45 miles of Oklahoma City, Norman and Lawton when you need to access the larger metropolitan areas. This is a wonderful city to raise a family and call home. Chickasha provides educational opportunities from early childhood to the university level. The city has a complete medical facility from clinics to its county hospital available for those needing quality health care.


text:
x2, basically If it can keep up, it could be anime of the decade, IMO.FarmXD wrote:Man, Shingeki no Kyoujin was a real surprise. I don't read the manga yet
but it's so well done, not just for animation but general direction.
I'm really enjoying it. It's been a while since the last time I liked
a new anime series this much!
Great season for me in general. Gargantia, Satan @ McDonalds, Yahare Ore no Seishun LoveCom have all not disappointed me. And for my random derping needs, Muromi has also been fun.


text:
TACOMA, Wash. – The City of Tacoma has declared March 17, 2013, as "University of Puget Sound Day" in honor of the university's founding on that day 125 years ago.
At the council's meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 19, Mayor Marilyn Strickland read a proclamation detailing the rationale for a commemorative day to mark Puget Sound's founding in 1888. Please see the proclamation below.
Puget Sound President Ronald R. Thomas thanked the council for the honor and expressed appreciation to the city of Tacoma and its residents for the critical support they have given the university for more than a century. He said this included Tacoma citizens' participation in a $1 million dollar-for-dollar fundraising, backed by the Methodist Church, that allowed the purchase of the first forty-acres of the university's campus site in the city's north end and the 1924 construction of Jones Hall, the first building on the current site.
"They knew a great city needed a great university," Thomas said. "Railroadmen and timbermen, nurses and pastors and politicians all contributed to that effort. . . . This city over the last century and a quarter has become a great city, and we, thanks to you and the work of many who valued and supported us, have become a great university.
"All of us at Puget Sound are deeply honored by your proclamation today, as we are honored by the history of cooperation and commitment between the city and the university . . . that has been a hallmark of our achievements for the last 125 years together."
Councilmember Ryan Mello '01 spoke up about Puget Sound's service in attracting and educating students from around the world, many of whom fell in love with Tacoma and stayed here. Mayor Strickland commended President Thomas on his commitment to involve Puget Sound in the community, through activities including student volunteerism, public speakers, and the Race and Pedagogy Initiative.
Councilmember Victoria Woodards said that Tacoma's investment in the university was far outweighed by all Puget Sound has given back. She cited the example of the university's 1968 financial support for the founding of the Tacoma Urban League, where Woodards is currently CEO and president.
Mayor Strickland presented Thomas with a mounted copy of the proclamation recognizing March 17, 2013 as the commemorative day. Each of the council members was given a University of Puget Sound 125th Anniversary T-shirt.
The anniversary is being celebrated on campus through numerous events for the public, alumni, and campus members and their families. On Sunday, March 17, the University of Puget Sound 125th Anniversary Web pages will come alive with a video montage of students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, lecture guests, musical artists, and others in the community wishing Puget Sound a "Happy Birthday!"
Below is the proclamation by the City of Tacoma.
University of Puget Sound Day Proclamation
WHEREAS: The University of Puget Sound was founded on March 17, 1888, in the City of Tacoma, soon after the City of Tacoma was incorporated and a year before Washington became the 42nd state in the union; and
WHEREAS: The University has occupied five campus homes here in the City of Tacoma since that time and took up residence at 15th Street and Alder in 1924 to begin building its stately Tudor Gothic campus; and
WHEREAS: Puget Sound has educated generations of Tacomans, including more than 7,000 alumni who now reside in Tacoma and Pierce County; and
WHEREAS: The University has evolved through a century and a quarter together with our City of Destiny to become a nationally recognized, independent liberal arts college, the only one of its kind in Western Washington, named this year as "A College that Changes Lives," one of only forty in the nation; and
WHEREAS: Puget Sound's faculty have earned seven Washington State Professor of the Year awards, including the first ever awarded and the most recent, for their excellence in teaching and scholarship, more than any other college or university in the state; and
WHEREAS: The University has established itself as a consistent national leader in producing Fulbright Scholars and Peace Corps Volunteers; and
WHEREAS: The vitality of the city and that of the college are deeply intertwined through generations of collaboration in the arts, science, business, education, and community justice to make Tacoma one of the great places to live, work, and learn;
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that I, Marilyn Strickland, Mayor of the City of Tacoma, with the concurrence of the City Council, do hereby proclaim March 17, 2013, "University of Puget Sound Day" in Tacoma and urge all citizens to join us in celebrating this memorable day with President Thomas, his wife Mary, and the University of Puget Sound students, faculty, staff, alumni, and trustees.
View a video of the City of Tacoma council meeting that made the declaration at: http://cityoftacoma.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?view_id=3&clip_id=131
Visit the university's 125th Anniversary Web pages for more news, photos, videos, historic timeline, and more at: https://www.pugetsound.edu/125
Tweet this: March 17, 2013 is University of Puget Sound Day in Tacoma in honor of @univpugetsound 125th anniversary! http://bit.ly/15WB7bj
Follow us on Twitter! www.twitter.com/univpugetsound


text:
I've avoided this week's topic for nearly two years, but I can't put it off any longer.
We have to talk about the weather.
In a week that featured local schools and Northern Illinois University closing two days in a row (because of weather) for the first time in recent memory and news reports Tuesday saying that after 36 hours, the temperature had climbed to zero … well, we have an ugly situation.
Don't get me wrong: I'm a fall/winter guy. I like the winters here. But winter wonderland lost a lot of luster this week. Polar vortexes. Ice tsunamis. Wind chills dozens of degrees below zero. Several deaths in the area. Car crashes, travel disruption, broken water pipes and other mechanical malfunctions beyond measure.
It can get to be too much, especially if you're already battling a form of clinical depression known as seasonal affective disorder.
It seems appropriate to mention SAD now because even though we seem to have survived the worst of the cold, as of Wednesday evening, freezing rain and more snow had been predicted for the weekend.
Isn't it reassuring that you can count on me for uplifting commentary?
SAD affects nearly half a million people every winter between September and April, peaking in December, January and February, according to Mental Health America, a national advocacy organization. Most sufferers are women, and the major onset tends to happen between ages 18 and 30.
The "Winter Blues," a milder form of SAD, may affect even more people, MHA says.
Dr. Norman E. Rosenthal (in his book, "Winter Blues: Everything You Need to Know to Beat Seasonal Affective Disorder,") said the prevalence of SAD is much higher, affecting about 14 million Americans.
Regardless, SAD is real. It's not just you (or me) whining.
Symptoms include depression, anxiety, significant mood changes, sleep problems, lethargy, overeating (especially including craving starchy and sweet foods), irritability, wanting to avoid people and social situations, and even sexual problems.
SAD symptoms tend to stem from daily body rhythms that have gone out of sync with the sun, according to one study by the National Institute of Mental Health. Exposure to bright light early in the morning and a low dose of the light-sensitive hormone melatonin can help, the study found.
Exposure to bright light at the right time is particularly helpful, according to Psych Central, an online mental health social network. Light boxes, which emit artificial light, mimic the sun's rays. They're easy to find and are reasonably priced. Depending on the intensity, you might need to use one between 30 minutes and two hours a day, but as long as your eyes are open and you're an appropriate distance from the light, you can read, talk on the phone, work on a computer, etc.
Not that I have a license to practice, but I would also "prescribe" peppermint tea, some exercise, pets, prayer/meditation, and funny/uplifting media content.
Experts do agree on one thing: if the blues get too dark, ask for help. Now.
• Jason Akst teaches journalism and public relations at Northern Illinois University. He also serves as a board member for the Northern Illinois Newspaper Association, www.ninaonline.org. You can reach him at firstname.lastname@example.com or follow him on Twitter (@jasonakst).


text:
I miss the way my grandmother used to say "mushrooms." It was "mushroonz" with a hard "n." I don't know why she pronounced it that way. Maybe it was a Rhode Island-Italian mash-up. Maybe it was just her.
When she was alive, I never missed an opportunity to remind her of it: "Hey, Nan, whatcha cooking over there? Some peas with mushroonz?" I'd say, suppressing a giggle. Invariably, she'd reply, "Ooh, you're so fresh." Then she'd make me sit down with her and eat some. Although I didn't like peas and mushrooms, I always liked Nan's, slick with butter and speckled with black pepper.
Even since Jeff and I moved away from Rhode Island 15 years ago, I've been cooking Nan's recipes — Italian chicken and escarole soup, Pizzelle Cookies, her famous Easter pies — and saying words like she did (well, only when I'm home). I'm not making fun of her. It's just the opposite: It's a way to remember her and talk about her.
The other night I had a pot of cooked fresh peas and mushrooms resting on the stove top. When Jeff came home from work, he walked straight to it, scooped a spoonful into his mouth, and said, "Mmmm.... good peas and mushroonz just like Nan's."
Yup, just like Nan's.
Makes 4 servings
Printable recipe.
2 tablespoons butter
1 shallot, diced (about 1/4 cup)
1 (10-ounce) bag of sliced mushrooms
2 cups fresh peas (about 10 ounces)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1. In a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add the shallots and cook 2 to 3 minutes, until soft and translucent. Add the mushrooms and cook 5 to 6 minutes or until lightly browned all over. Add the peas and cook 2 to 3 minutes, if you like them al dente like I do. If you prefer them softer, then cook them longer. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Enjoy.
Since it's fresh pea season, here are more peas recipes you might enjoy:
Spring Pea Guacamole recipe from Everyday Southwest
Sweet Peas Hummus recipe from My Man's Belly
Orange Spiked Peas with Dill recipe from Food Blogga
Spring Pasta with Fresh Peas recipe from Arugula Files
Fresh Peas with Vegan "Bacon" recipe from May I Have that Recipe?
Warm Three Pea and Radish Salad recipe from Food Blogga
Creamy Minted Fresh Pea Almond Soup recipe from Healthy, Happy Life
Lemony Pasta with Fresh Peas, Ricotta and Mint recipe from Food Blogga
Spring Salad with Dandelion Greens, Asparagus and Fresh Peas recipe from Sass & Veracity


text:
Skip Hire Sindlesham from YourLocalSkipHire.co.uk
For skip hire in Sindlesham, look no further than YourLocalSkipHire.co.uk. Our skip hire experts have worked alongside everyone from builders to homeowners, providing a huge range of skips that suit any project or budget.
If you're confused about which skip you need to hire from us, take a look at our sizing guide. That'll give you an indication of the size of skip you need for various projects, such as house clearances or larger building projects.
Hiring a skip in Sindlesham couldn't be easier. We'll provide you with a competitive, no-obligation quote on request, and all you need to do is provide us with your postcode. Just fill in the quote form above, and we'll do the rest.If you need more information, or want to discuss your skip hire needs with us directly, call 0330 1130 700 now.


text:
The ladies of Danity Kane plan to turn up the heat July 10 to kick off Universal CityWalk's free summer Music Spotlight Series.
The three-piece pop group — starring Aubrey O'Day from Palm Springs, Oregon native Shannon Bex and New Orleans native Dawn Richard — got its start on the 2005 MTV reality show "Making the Band" under the wing of music mogul Sean "P. Diddy/Puff Daddy" Combs and are making a comeback since their 2013 MTV Video Music Awards reunion.
The ladies recently dropped "Lemonade," their latest single featuring Tyga.
"We are excited to get the party started at CityWalk," said Danity Kane in a prepared statement. "We want to show our fans what we have been doing since we finished the No Filter Tour and recording our upcoming album as the newly formed Danity Kane. It is such a great feeling to be back performing with each other and for our fans."
But to warm up the stage, pop singer Moxie Raia is also slated to perform on the 5 Towers stage at Universal City Walk starting at 7 p.m. The East Coast native is expected to perform her single "Buffalo Bill," which has been remixed by legendary DJ Tiesto.
Raia plans to release her debut album later this year.
The University City Walk outdoor concert series continues on select nights through Aug. 31 with the Far East Movement, West L.A. Children's Choir and more. For details, go to www.citywalkhollywood.com


text:
News & Events
For the Media
Clarkson University Dean Peter Turner Named Fellow of the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics
Peter R. Turner, dean of the Clarkson University School of Arts and Sciences, has been selected as a fellow of the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM).
Fellowship honors SIAM members who have made outstanding contributions to the fields served by the organization. Turner was selected for his leadership in advancing applied mathematical education, including the creation of SIAM Undergraduate Research Online.
"SIAM is very selective about their fellows program," says Clarkson Senior Vice President Chuck Thorpe. "There are only about 250 fellows to date worldwide. Dean Turner's involvement as SIAM vice president for education and as founding editor-in-chief of SIAM Undergraduate Research Online was likely a key factor in his selection as a fellow. This work with undergraduate education and research is one of the reasons why we find him so valuable to the University."
Turner, also a professor of mathematics at Clarkson, has participated in and organized several outreach activities on behalf of SIAM, including the SIAM-NSF Modeling across the Curriculum initiative, SIAM partnership with the Museum of Mathematics, and SIAM participation in USA Science and Engineering Festivals. He also chaired the working group that produced the SIAM Report on undergraduate computational science and engineering education.
Turner's research interests are in computer arithmetic, level-index system, functional analysis, optimization, numerical analysis, parallel processing, computer vision, and computer algebra
Turner came to Clarkson in 2002 as division head for Mathematics and Computer Science, and in 2008, he assumed the post of interim dean of Arts and Sciences, and was named dean in 2009. Prior to Clarkson, Turner served 28 years on the faculties of the University of Lancaster in England and, later, at the United States Naval Academy.
He received his Ph.D. from the University of Sheffield in 1973, and in the intervening years, Turner gained a reputation both for his scholarly contributions and for his innovative academic leadership.
He will be recognized at the 2013 SIAM Annual Meeting Prizes and Awards Luncheon on July 9 in San Diego.
The Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics is an international society of more than 14,000 individual members, including applied and computational mathematicians and computer scientists, as well as other scientists and engineers. Members from 85 countries are researchers, educators, students, and practitioners in industry, government, laboratories, and academia. The Society, which also includes nearly 500 academic and corporate institutional members, serves and advances the disciplines of applied mathematics and computational science by publishing a variety of books and prestigious peer-reviewed research journals, by conducting conferences, and by hosting activity groups in various areas of mathematics. SIAM provides many opportunities for students including regional sections and student chapters. Further information is available at http://www.siam.org.
Clarkson University launches leaders into the global economy. One in five alumni already leads as a CEO, VP or equivalent senior executive of a company. Located just outside the Adirondack Park in Potsdam, N.Y., Clarkson is a nationally recognized research university for undergraduates with select graduate programs in signature areas of academic excellence directed toward the world's pressing issues. Through 50 rigorous programs of study in engineering, business, arts, sciences and health sciences, the entire learning-living community spans boundaries across disciplines, nations and cultures to build powers of observation, challenge the status quo, and connect discovery and engineering innovation with enterprise.
[A photograph for media use is available at http://www.clarkson.edu/news/photos/pturner.jpg.]


text:
About a month back, we did a giveaway post focusing on what your parents did to bond with you, and 106 comments later it was clear that most of you had parents that loved to bond with you, and did lots of fun stuff with you as children. It was really touching.
I (Mr Couch) personally think one of the best things you can do with your kids is read with them. Not only is there a profound impact on your child's intellectual development, there are huge bonding issues that are fulfilled when you take 20 minutes out of a busy day to enjoy the written word with your children.
And, there ain't no better way to do it than with a book like this: Usborne Books Illustrated Classics for Boys. With six classic stories for boys (aimed at six years old and up), like Robin Hood, Gulliver and Robinson Crusoe, and with beautiful illustrations that are just bound to enthrall your little ones, this will be a perfect way to spend some quality time with your kids AND enhance their literary skills!
Usborne Children's Books Australia is giving three lucky winners the chance to win one of these gems!
Just leave a comment telling us your favourite book as a child! Doesn't have to be one your parents read to you, just something that appealed to you when you were young. For me it was the Famous Five. But that's probably because I'm daggy. Maybe.
Entries go into a random draw!
Here's the fine print:
- Open to Australian residents only
- Giveaway closes October 19th 2009
- To find out how to earn extra entries click here!


text:
Ameriwood System Build Purple Fabric Bin, (10.5" x 10.5")
Purple it up with this cool fabric bin from Ameriwood. Its sturdy fabric handle and materials allow for perfect use as a stand alone bin or shelved on any Ameriwood cube organizer. Organize your toys, toiletries and household items in style!
- Fits perfectly into System Build units
- A convenient and attractive storage solution
- Bin folds flat for easy storage
- 10.5"L x 10.5"W x 11"H
- Material: Nonwoven Polypropylene
- Model number: 7701896
Return Policy
If you wish to return your online order, please visit your order history to start the return process. If you have any issues, contact our Customer Care Support Center at 1-866-BIG-LOTS (244-5687) for assistance with making your return. Please be prepared to provide your order number and email address, or your rewards number, so that we may better assist you.
For return terms, see our full Returns Policy.
For return terms, see our full Returns Policy.
Already own this item? Share your thoughts, we value your opinion.
Be The First To Write A Review