text:
By Pat Christman
The Free Press
ST PETER — The anticipation participants felt as they stood at the edge of the hole cut in the ice on Hallett's Pond in St. Peter before leaping into the icy water could have been as bad as the dunk itself.
The moment of discomfort was a small price to pay for most participants as they took part in Saturday's Polar Plunge, the annual fundraiser for Special Olympics that necessitates a bath in Hallett's Pond, whether you need it or not.
More than 500 people jumped into the 5-foot-deep water Saturday, most swiftly emerging from the water mouths open in a silent (or not so silent) scream of shock as they headed for a hot tub to restore feeling to their extremities. More than $57,000 was raised for Special Olympics during the event, put on by local law enforcement and Special Olympics Minnesota.


text:
By Cam Huffman
Sports Editor
Woodrow Wilson head coach Ron Kidd said after Friday night's Class AAA Region 3, Section 2 championship victory over Greenbrier East that he loves winning titles. Whether it's an early-season tournament or a postseason sectional, anything that ends with the Flying Eagles being handed a trophy feels pretty good.
Beckley (20-4) will have a chance to pick up some more hardware tonight when it hosts Riverside (9-15) in a Class AAA Region 3 co-final at 7 p.m. at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center. But the big reward at the end of this one isn't another trophy, but instead a ticket — one that would give Woodrow a spot in the 100th West Virginia Secondary Schools Activities Commission boys basketball state tournament and a chance for a 17th state crown.
The opponent is a familiar one. Woodrow and Riverside just met in Quincy on Feb. 8, and it wasn't even close. The Flying Eagles opened up a 29-9 lead after the opening quarter, shot 50 percent from the floor and placed five players — Chase Hancock (18), Andrew Johnson (15), Donté Nabors (15), Nequan Carrington (14) and Brent Osborne (13) — in double figures on their way to their 10th straight win, 88-45.
Woodrow's winning streak is now up to 16 games after a 4-4 start, and the No. 2 Flying Eagles seem to be on a collision course with No. 1 Martinsburg for a state championship.
But as has been proven time and time again in the postseason, nothing comes without a fight.
Greenbrier East's No. 1 and undefeated girls team wasn't supposed to lose to a Capital squad that was below .500 in the AAA girls Region 3 finals, Riverside wasn't supposed to beat No. 6 George Washington in the Region 3, Section 1 boys semifinal and Shady Spring wasn't supposed to take Woodrow to the wire in the Region 3, Section 2 boys semifinal.
But all of that is exactly what took place.
"You never take anybody for granted," said Kidd. "(Riverside) beat GW on their home floor, and they're pretty excited about being in the regional game. We can't take them lightly."
Riverside is still playing without its head coach. Dusty Herscher was suspended before the team's first meeting with Woodrow Wilson. No reason was publicly announced, but the Warriors did forfeit a game with Parkersburg because of using an ineligible player, and media reports have said Herscher's staff encouraged players to lie about the situation.
Chad Metten, an assistant who took over as the interim coach after that Woodrow game, has been in charge since, and he's expected to coach tonight's contest. Metten is 2-2 leading the team, including the upset of George Washington.
Junior forward Tyus Wood scored 26 points and grabbed eight rebounds in that upset of GW, and he was also the top scorer with 10 points the first time Woodrow and Riverside played.
"They're very athletic," said Kidd. "They've got some quickness, and they've got some height. If we don't bring it, we'll be in trouble."
Woodrow could be without its leading scorer in tonight's game. Nabors, the Flying Eagles' standout junior guard, suffered bruised ribs in the sectional championship win over Greenbrier East. He said he plans on doing everything he can to get on the floor tonight, but he admits he's been very sore the last few days since the injury. His minutes are likely to be limited, especially if Woodrow can build an early lead like it did in its first meeting with the Warriors.
n n n
Woodrow's longtime rival, Greenbrier East, will also be playing for a spot in the state tournament tonight. It would be the Spartans' first trip to Charleston since 2002 and just the third since 1985.
The path to the capital won't be easy for head coach Jim Justice's team, though.
After a school record 15-0 start, Greenbrier East (20-4) is just 5-4 since the beginning of February. The Spartans lost a shocker to Point Pleasant in the Big Atlantic Classic and then fell at home to Princeton 11 days later.
The regular season ended for Greenbrier East with a 67-41 road loss at South Charleston, the only lopsided loss of the regular season, and after avenging the defeat to Princeton in the Region 3, Section 2 semifinal, East was pounded by Woodrow in the sectional final, losing 80-48 at the Brushfork Armory.
The Class AAA No. 8 Spartans will have to beat No. 3 South Charleston (22-2) tonight at the South Charleston Community Center to earn the state tournament berth.
When East played on that floor just two weeks ago, it turned the ball over 28 times and allowed sophomore A.D. Cunningham to score 17 points. Hunter Moles, who's averaged 16 points the last four games, scored 12.
East trailed just 29-23 at halftime, but South Charleston used a 12-3 run to close the third quarter and put the game away.
Rondale Watson, the Spartans' standout junior guard, had a rough night, scoring just 11 points on 3 of 13 shooting from the field.
Watson was also 3 of 13 Friday against Beckley, but in between he put up a 29-point, 12-rebound performance in the win over Princeton.
Greenbrier East — which does have quality wins over the likes of Woodrow Wilson, Bluefield and Princeton on its resumé — will need that type of production from its Division I prospect tonight to have a chance to pull off the upset.
Another key will be keeping 6-foot-9 junior center Obi Romeo on the floor.
East's biggest matchup advantage in most games, Romeo battled foul trouble against both South Charleston and Woodrow Wilson, contributing to second-half runs by the opponents and lopsided final scores.
Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m.
— E-mail: chuffman@
register-herald.com and follow on Twitter @CamHuffmanRH.
For team coverage check us out online at www.register-herald.com and look for the "In The Paint" link.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Online Response Surprises Oprah Petition Creators
September 12, 2008 2:55 PM
In just 24 hours, more than 44,000 people signed a petition urging Oprah Winfrey to have Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as a guest on her show before the presidential election. The reaction has stunned the two people who created the Web site www.palinpetition.com.
Joshua H. Bolin and Mark Hammonds, partners in an as-yet-unnamed Augusta, Ga., blogging network, said they put together the petition site quickly, getting it up Thursday morning, Sept. 11. It went up even before they could launch their political blog www.thepoliticalfish.com, which was to launch Friday.
They said the petition started out of conversations they had with friends generated by some Oprah stories on the Drudge Report Web site. Also, they admitted, it was an attempt to generate a little traffic and an e-mail list for their new site's newsletter.
The original goal was to reach 4,000 or 5,000 people through friends and family, with maybe some viral additions with a Facebook page, said Mr. Bolin.
Instead, they had to change the site's server within hours because of high traffic. There are now so many signers, Mr. Bolin, said there is uncertainty about what to do with the list of names because there are too many to simply forward to Ms. Winfrey.
"We didn't realize the Palin petition would have a life of its own," said Mr. Bolin. In addition to people signing up, he said, 900 left comments.
Although the petition would seem to appeal most strongly to Republicans, Mr. Bolin and Mr. Hammonds said they aren't Republicans. Mr. Bolin describes himself as a Democrat with conservative leanings, while Mr. Hammonds said he was a Democrat, but anger at Ms. Winfrey is pushing him to vote for Republican candidate John McCain.
The two said they started the petition because they genuinely felt Ms. Palin should be interviewed on the show. Ms. Winfrey, who has endorsed the Democratic presidential nominee, Sen. Barack Obama, told the Drudge Report that because of her personal endorsement, she chose not to use her show as a platform for any of the candidates, but hopes to interview Ms. Palin after the Nov. 4 election.
"I have been a fan of Oprah's for over 25 years and have to say I am disappointed she has not made this invitation herself," said Mr. Hammonds. "Sad, sad day for women! Oprah is trying to set women's rights back 100 years.
"As a concerned Democrat, I feel that we should get to know Gov. Palin as a person. She is not getting a fair hearing. If she does not [get exposure], then I will feel that the Democratic Party does not want this (apparently) capable young woman to get any exposure."
To the best of the Daily Blink's knowledge, the Democratic Party has no affiliation with or control over "The Oprah Winfrey Show."
Mr. Bolin said 10% of the petition signers identify themselves as Democrats and many were women in Democratic states.
—Ira Teinowitz


text:
|Men's Basketball » Schedule » Roster » News » Coaches » 2013-14 Season Statistics
Valpo Travels To Play UMKC; Crusaders Begin Three-Game Road Swing Thursday
Tuesday, January 06, 2004VALPO (4-7, 1-1 Mid-Con) at UMKC (5-7, 1-1 Mid-Con)
WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 8 - 7 p.m. CST
WHERE: ARC, Valparaiso, Indiana
RADIO: WEFM (95.9, Michigan City), WVUR-FM (95.1, Valparaiso) - Todd Ickow and Drew Wolf announcing.
TV: - none
THE COACHES: Valparaiso is guided by Homer Drew, who has a career record of 509-313 in his 27th season and a record at Valpo of 240-191 in his 15th season. UMKC is led by Rich Zvosec, who has a career mark of 135-186 in his 12th season and a record at UMKC of 32-38 in his 3rd season.
SERIES RECORD: Valpo leads 17-3
LAST MEETING: 2002-03 - Valpo won 71-50 in Mid-Con Tournament Semifinals.
LAST GAME: Valpo lost to IUPUI 79-67 on Monday in Valparaiso. UMKC defeated Chicago State 84-66 on Monday in Chicago.
NEXT UP: Valpo travels to play at Oral Roberts on Saturday at 7:05 p.m.
A challenging early Mid-Con schedule continues on Thursday for Valpo as the Crusaders travel to play at UMKC beginning at 7 p.m. Valpo (4-7, 1-1) had a two-game winning streak snapped with Monday's 79-67 loss to IUPUI at the ARC. Three Crusaders scored in double figures as Dan Oppland and Ali Berdiel had 14 points, and Roberto Nieves netted 12. Kikas Gomes tied his career-high with five blocked shots. After UMKC, the Crusaders travel to Tulsa to play Oral Roberts on Saturday at 7:05 p.m.
DAN OPPLAND ON A ROLL: Sophomore Dan Oppland has been very consistent the entire season. The 6'8" forward took over the team scoring lead (13.7 ppg.) after his career-high 23-point performance at Oakland. Oppland, who was selected to the Fiesta Bowl Classic All-Tournament Team, averaged 13.5 points and 7.0 rebounds in the two games. Overall, he has scored in double figures in 10 of the 11 games and grabbed twin-digit rebounds three times.
GOMES MID-CON'S TOP REBOUNDER: Kikas Gomes, who is leading the Mid-Con in rebounding (10.1 pg.), has been a major factor on the boards over the last month. The 6'8" senior has averaged 11.4 rebounds over the last seven games. Gomes has six double-figure rebounding games over the last seven contests and has recorded five double-doubles (points and rebounds) during that span. He stands second on Valpo in scoring (12.5 ppg.) overall.
GOMES LEADS MID-CON IN BLOCKED SHOTS: In addition to topping the league in rebounding, Kikas Gomes leads the Mid-Con in blocked shots (2.0, 22 total) through Jan. 7. Gomes also leads the league in defensive rebounds (8.0 pg.).
HOWARD A DEFENSIVE PRESENCE: One of the major keys to Saturday's win over Oakland was Ron Howard's defense on the Golden Grizzlies' leading scorer Mike Helms. In the second half, Howard helped limit Helms to 12 points on 4-of-16 shooting.
BERDIEL 2nd IN MID-CON IN ASSISTS: Junior Ali Berdiel ranks 2nd in the Mid-Con in assists through Jan. 7. The 6'6" guard averages 5.82 apg. (64 in 11 games).
Men's Basketball Archives
2003-04 Men's Basketball


text:
Student Affairs
Academic Affairs
Residence Life
The Association of College and University Housing Officers International (ACUHO-I) and EBI Benchmarking Assessments partnered to develop powerful assessment tools for residence life. Our assessments are rooted in educational theory and research, utilize rigorous statistical methods, and are closely aligned with ACUHO-I Professional Standards. As a result, we provide higher education professionals with the information and support they need to enable students to make the most of their college experience.
These assessments address student learning outcomes and resident satisfaction.
Phone: (417) 429-0081
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
The ACUHO-I/EBI Assessment Team is pleased to present the 2012 ACUHO-I/EBI Assessment Award to Amy McGovern, Assistant Director of University Housing at the University of Wisconsin-Stout. We commend the University of Wisconsin-Stout for its commitment to continuous improvement and applaud the innovative use of the ACUHO-I/EBI assessments to improve student satisfaction and learning outcomes in their residence halls and promote data driven decision making in the continuous improvement process.
The ACUHO-I/EBI Assessment Award recognizes an individual or institution that is committed to continuous improvement as evidenced by issue identification, change, and improvement. The recipient's institution receives an ACUHO-I/EBI Complete Assessment Package for 2012–2013. In addition, the individual will be presented with a plaque at the ACUHO-I Annual Conference, and the institution will be featured in an article in the Talking Stick publication.
Attend a free webinar
Date: 07/31/2014
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CT
Association of College & University Housing Officers - International
Visit www.acuho-i.org for more information.
by Sherry Woosley & Kurt Moderson | Nov 05, 2013
The best stories are fun, challenging, emotionally charged, entertaining, and engaging. And the best storytellers draw you in, hold your attention, and stay in your thoughts long after they are finished. What if we aspired to become storytellers to communicate our assessment results? What kind of ... Read More »
by EBI MAP-Works | Oct 08, 2013
Resident Assistants' relationships with residents can be complex and varied with far-reaching influence. On the whole, residents were satisfied with their RAs' attempts to build a relationship (Forty-four percent very satisfied, twenty percent moderately satisfied, eleven percent slightly ...
Read More »
EBI MAP-Works Newsletter
Stay up-to-date on industry insights with our monthly newsletter.
© Copyright 2014 EBI MAP-Works, LLC. All Rights Reserved.


text:
For the latest products, stock updates and info on all things pointy check out our New Arrivals.
We accept checks, money orders, Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover.
The H&K Mini-Entourage 14751BK automatic knife features a black finished 440C stainless steel tanto blade with a plain edge. Black anodized aluminum handle with machined grips, enlarged push button, integrated safety and tip-up carry pocket clip.


text:
Santa Monica Mayor Richard Bloom tendered his resignation Sunday, which will go into effect one minute before a swearing in ceremony for his new role as 50th District assemblymember.
"I just tendered my resignation as Santa Monica Mayor and Councilmember effective 11:59 a.m. on Monday. I'll be sworn in as Assemblymember at noon on Monday and couldn't bear leaving my post a minute sooner," Bloom wrote on his Facebook page Sunday morning.
Bloom declared victory on Nov. 27 with 70,000 votes left to be counted countywide from the Nov. 6 election. The final count was completed on Sunday, and Bloom widened his lead to 1,705 votes over Assemblywoman Betsy Butler.
The results will be certified by the L.A. County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday.
"My service to the people of Santa Monica, on the Coastal Commission, Santa Monica Bay Restoration Commission, Santa Monica Conservancy and Westside Cities Council of Governments has been a labor of love and has enriched my life more than I ever imagined," Bloom said.
He thanked the residents of Santa Monica and others.
"Thank you to the people of the 50th Assembly District for entrusting me with the awesome responsibilities that I will now undertake," Bloom said.
Bloom previously held a lead of 888 votes last week. On election night, he was ahead by 218 votes, and his lead widened with every vote tally update except for the Nov. 20 results.
Bloom said in a letter posted on the Facebook page he expects to be sworn in on Monday in the State Capitol by Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye.
This closely-contested race is unique as it is the only one in the 28 contested state legislative and congressional districts in California to have candidates from the same party—both are Democrats.
Incumbent Betsy Butler raised more than $1 million in campaign funds, about twice as much as Bloom.
District 50 encompasses Santa Monica, Malibu, Brentwood, Bel Air, Beverly Hills, Carthay Square, West Hollywood, much of Hollywood, Hancock Park, Miracle Mile, as well as Pacific Palisades, Topanga, part of the Santa Monica Mountains and Agoura Hills.


text:
Ada —
Free class in building thermography will be held soon on the East Central University campus.
The building thermography class is set for Oct. 4-5 with a registration deadline of Oct.2
The class run from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. each day.
Thermography is the science of visualizing infrared energy (heat) patterns. It has applications in a number of industries and in determining environmental conditions.
ECU will provide day care for children of parents enrolled in the classes. The university also will award certificates for all the participants who complete the class.
The grant for these classes will end soon so the cost of these courses will be approximately $995 after Jan. 1, 2013.
To enroll or obtain more information call Bridget Forshay at 580-559-5296.


text:
Higher Ground
Top cop changes his mind
"Ike" McKinnon says it's time to take a public stance
Published: November 2, 2011
"We are finding that, at least with marijuana, the majority of the people have moved their position," says LEAP's Franklin. "There was a time I thought like that. I arrested people. I led a drug unit. I supported prohibition probably stronger than most. It took me a few years to get to that point where I saw that it's not just marijuana; it's the policies for all drugs that are wrong. I guarantee you that if [McKinnon] were to continue look at this issue, if he were to continue educating himself on this issue and look at it from a global perspective, I'm almost certain he would arrive at the same point of view as I am."
McKinnon is certainly a guy who seeks education. He earned a master's degree and studied for his doctorate while serving on the police force. At this point, he's not interested in becoming an activist on this issue. It really only came up because Mike Whitty, an adjunct professor at UDM and a member of the advisory board for the Michigan Chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, asked him about it one day.
"I've never spoken to anyone about this," McKinnon says. "Nobody ever asked me about it before."
That type of discussion will take place with the program "Should We End the War on Cannabis? A conversation with Ike McKinnon and Professor Mike Whitty" at 7 p.m. on Dec. 6, at the Baldwin Public Library in Birmingham. This event has no affiliation with UDM.
"The goal is to try to elevate the topic to the level of a serious policy debate and to put the problems of cannabis closer to the public health arena," says Whitty.
McKinnon says that there are probably many other chiefs of police who agree with that, but can't say so because they are appointed officials who must support the policy of whatever politician appointed them. It's later, after retirement, that some perspective sets in and they also feel free to speak their own minds.
"When you think about it in terms of your health, if it brings relief, people are going to want to use that," McKinnon says. "I can't think of anybody who has died from marijuana."
McKinnon is only willing to go so far in his reassessment of marijuana law, but his voice, as an old anti-drug warrior, should be heard loud and clear. He more than most has seen how it is fought and the carnage it causes.
> Email Larry Gabriel
To comment you must first create a profile and sign-in with a verified DISQUS account or social network ID. Sign up here.
Comments in violation of the rules will be denied, and repeat violators will be banned. Please help police the community by flagging offensive comments for our moderators to review. By posting a comment, you agree to our full terms and conditions. Click here to read terms and conditions.


text:
JAYS q-JAYS Noise Isolating Earbuds (Black)
" Have been using it for a while...it's quite comfortable and sounds great...the price is ok for dual drivers headphones...maybe it's the cheapest one in the list...(i have seen so far...)...sound quality is line up the price u pay for :) " --Kill-K
Comply T-100 Standard Foam Tips - 3 Pair Pack
Comply Foam Tips are a premium earphone upgrade that comfortably seal the ear canal to provide high levels of noise isolation and retention. They are made from unique breathable memory foam that is activated by body heat and becomes ultra soft, reducing irritation and fatigue. Once inside the ear, this foam will expand to create a seal, funneling pure sound into the ear canal, enhancing the...


text:
In Susan Blackwell's latest Side by Side shenanigans, Tony winner and Smash star Christian Borle dishes about life as a comic book geek, staying off social media and why he's dreaming about Daniel Day-Lewis.
See video clips of Sylvester Stallone, Andy Karl, Margo Seibert and more at the first-ever Broadway performance of Rocky on February 13 at the Winter Garden Theatre!February 13, 2014
Think you know everything there is to know about New York City? Get the facts (while laughing and chowing down on an Italian meal) from Kevin James Doyle, co-writer and star of off-Broadway's How To Be a New Yorker at Planet Hollywood.September 30, 2013
If/Then's Jenn Colella shares what she loves about the new musical and explains why New York City is the center of the entire world.July 15, 2014
Cinderella vlogger Laura Osnes teams up with her prince Santino Fontana and her former partner in crime Jeremy Jordan to hand out sweets for charity at Broadway hot spot Shmackary's before getting ready for a magical night at the Tonys!June 7, 2013
Get a sneak peek at the national tour of I Love Lucy.September 3, 2013
In the newest installment of Fly Girl, Lindsay Mendez brings viewers along for a typical day in the life of the Wicked star. See her secrets and find out what she wouldn't give up to play Elphaba.August 8, 2013
A new Looks Not Books? This year's off to a good start! Matilda's Lesli Margherita takes us holiday bowling and gift swapping with the cast, answers a slew of questions from fans and dishes about her Twitter war over Britney Spears!January 6, 2014
Spotlight On: Mary PoppinsNovember 22, 2008
Watch Tony nominee Jessie Mueller channel singer/songwriter Carole King with this sneak peek at Broadway's Beautiful. Tap your toes to these show clips, then see the new musical at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre beginning November 21.November 20, 2013
Get a sneak peek of Newsies.November 29, 2013
In honor of The Phantom of the Opera's 25th anniversary on Broadway, stars Sierra Boggess and Hugh Panaro led a phabulous birthday celebration! Get the scoop from the cast, surprise guests and more!January 28, 2013
Give 'em the old milestone whammy! The Tony-winning revival of Chicago celebrated its 7,000th Broadway performance on September 24, and Tony winner Bebe Neuwirth along with the tuner's classy stars celebrated with Champagne, cake and jazz!September 25, 2013


text:
What a wonderful day it was.
Thanks to Jennifer McClure and Carla Gwinn at the St. Marks Methodist Church Children's Development Center, I was able to spend time with two groups of 4 and 5 year old children.
I had the honor to teach & install a Butterfly Garden with 31 children.
We planted a variety of color and butterfly attracting specimens.
The looks on the faces of this bunch of wonderful bright spirits was priceless.
This garden was in honor of Ms. Rose.


text:
Summary — Defense, defense, defense. The Hawkeyes put together a drive on their first possession of the game, a march that stalled at the Wisconsin 32-yard line. Iowa went for it on fourth-and-11, but Ricky Stanzi's pass sailed incomplete in the end zone. The Badgers ran 16 plays for 72 yards while Iowa ran 11 plays for 30 yards.
Key play — Wisconsin took over the their own 32 after Iowa failed to convert on fourth down.
Score — Iowa 0, Wisconsin 0.


text:
William Baldwin, Contributor
I write about investing and taxes.
Don't buy a house in a state where private sector workers are outnumbered by folks dependent on government.
Thinking about buying a house? Or a municipal bond? Be careful where you put your capital. Don't put it in a state at high risk of a fiscal tailspin.
Eleven states make our list of danger spots for investors. They can look forward to a rising tax burden, deteriorating state finances and an exodus of employers. The list includes California, New York, Illinois and Ohio, along with some smaller states like New Mexico and Hawaii.
If your career takes you to Los Angeles or Chicago, don't buy a house. Rent.
If you have money in municipal bonds, clean up the portfolio. Sell holdings from the sick states and reinvest where you're less likely to get clipped. Nebraska and Virginia are unlikely to give their bondholders a Greek haircut. California and New York are comparatively risky.
Two factors determine whether a state makes this elite list of fiscal hellholes. The first is whether it has more takers than makers. A taker is someone who draws money from the government, as an employee, pensioner or welfare recipient. A maker is someone gainfully employed in the private sector.
Let us give those takers the benefit of our sympathy and assume that every single one of them is a deserving soul. This person is either genuinely needy or a dedicated public servant or the recipient of a well-earned pension.
But what happens when these needy types outnumber the providers? Taxes get too high. Prosperous citizens decamp. Employers decamp. That just makes matters worse for the taxpayers left behind.
Let's say you are a software entrepreneur with 100 on your payroll. If you stay in San Francisco, your crew will support 139 takers. In Texas, they would support only 82. Austin looks very attractive.
Ranked on the taker/maker ratio, our 11 death spiral states range from New Mexico, with 1.53 takers for every maker, down to Ohio, with a 1-to-1 ratio.
The taker count is the number of state and local government workers plus the number of people on Medicaid plus 1 for each $100,000 of unfunded pension liabilities. Sources: the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Kaiser Commission on Medicaid and a study of state worker pensions done in 2009 by two academics, Joshua Rauh and Rovert Novy-Marx. Professor Rauh estimates that the shortage in pension funding is on average a third higher today.
The second element in the death spiral list is a scorecard of state credit-worthiness done by Conning & Co., a money manager known for its measures of risk in insurance company portfolios. Conning's analysis focuses more on dollars than body counts. Its formula downgrades states for large debts, an uncompetitive business climate, weak home prices and bad trends in employment.
Conning rates North Dakota the safest state to lend money to, Connecticut the most hazardous. A state qualifies for the Forbes death spiral list if its taker/maker ratio exceeds 1.0 and it resides in the bottom half of Conning's ranking.
It's easy to see how California got on our list. It has pampered a large army of civil servants while using every imaginable trick to chase private-sector jobs away, the latest being a quixotic scheme to reduce the globe's atmospheric carbon. A City Journal essay by Victor Davis Hanson notes that the state spends $10 billion a year on entitlements for illegal aliens.
Illinois is especially known for its dishonesty, whether among officeholders (future license plate motto: Land of Corruption) or in the habit of under-accounting for promises to government employees. The Rauh study counted $66 billion in the till to cover pension obligations of $233 billion.
To lend money to California, Illinois or the other nine states perched on the precipice requires a leap of faith. So does buying a house in those locales. Don't count on a property tax limit to protect your home's value. If other taxes are high enough, there won't be any buyers.
Bill, they are "MAKING" nothing in North Dakota. It's an extractive industry, the bringing of oil out of the ground. That is not manufacturing. They are TAKING the natural resource and sending it through pipelines and on tankers to the coast where it is loaded onto oil tankers and sent to China and THEY MAKE, CREATE, and FABRICATE.
Ten years ago, San Juan County, New Mexico was second in the nation behind the State of Wyoming in natural gas production. You didn't even know us then, and now to you we are just some old worn-out muddy boots on an old "taker man".
I would just like to state how tired I am of seeing the word "maker" abused in this context. A maker is someone who actually makes things, who uses his or her brain to build something. For example, I consider many of the men and women who work at our National Labs makers because they build and invent scientific devices. According to this article, those people are a drain on our nation's resources. According to my personal values, they are what help make our country great, and we discount their contributions at our peril.
Your feelings aren't important. If their contributions are valuable, let them seek their just rewards in a free market, rather than from my taxes.
"Makers" and "Takers" do not really cover all the types of people in this country. I think we also need a third category. Perhaps "Hoodwinkers" is appropriate. What do Wall Street types actually make anyway? Can we actually say that the world is better, because we now have credit default swaps?
Susana, the author went out of his way to be politically correct and say that even though he refers to them as takers they may very well be dedicated public servants or deserving souls.
What he is point out is they are not private sector employees so therefore they are a drain on private monies and once you have more of them than private sector workers the system collapses no matter how deserving the souls are or dedicated the government employees are.
Here in NJ we have gotten somewhat of a reprieve with Christie but its only a matter of time before there is another Florio,McGreevy or Corzine and we head back down the wrong direction.
For example in NJ only 7% of all jobs created between 2001 and 2007 were private sector that just cannot stand the test of economic common sense.
Exactly – the makers vs takers argument is just another childish 21st century concoction, like the OWS vs Tea Party. It's an extremist view, not to mention, the 'makers' and 'takers' are the same – exploiters. The makers in this are the rich – most likely inheritors or backstabbers – who create a short-lived bubble to increase they're already large profit and then screw the workers by shipping it overseas to guarantee their 'constant growth'; and the takers are those who exploit a generous system that provides a safety net so that people don't go hungry and die in this country. Both of them screw over the important people – the workers. But nobody cares about them, which is why the middle class is being destroyed and we're turning into a bipolar country hooked on extremist thinking :/
I believe Mr Baldwin uses maker as one who contributes to taxes rather than taking from taxes. If the person is in a non governmental job where the salary is not paid from taxes they are makers. If not, they are takers.
@ Susanna:
The word "Maker" isn't being "abused" (as you say) when the author clearly defines what he means by the term.
Words and phrases CAN take on more than one meaning. As long as the person doing the talking is clear about what they mean, they aren't abusing anything.
And finally, While the author wasn't referring to federal government, I'd still label you a "taker" because you're on the government payroll.
In short, it doesn't matter if you're single-handedly saving the world… If you're on the government payroll, you're still a taker (in this context).
It IS possible for you to simultaneously "make our country great" (matter of opinion) AND be a drain on our nation's resources (matter of fact).
And as far as I'm concerned, anything the government does, the private sector can do more efficiently, more cost-effectively, and with a better idea of what the consumer needs…. Because unlike government workers who are paid no matter what through taxation, the private sector actually has to produce meaningful products and services to make a profit. If they don't, they go out of business. The government CAN'T go out of business, because apparently, debt isn't real for our government. But that's another story. ;)
I too could make a decent living if, like a government worker, I could force every single American to pay me with no choice. This is the very essence of government employment.
So, yeah, you may be saving the world in your lab coat… But you get paid by forceful confiscation of property… not by the merit of your work. That's something you should be aware of.
Interesting to see my state of Alabama on the list. It may be due, in part, to the extensive military facilities here. Plus, Alabama is a favored place for military retirees. Not that that eliminates the drain of taxpayers overall. But it does mean much of that burden is Federal and not reflected in the State's tax burden.


text:
I do not own a North Carolina Tar Heel sweatshirt, T-shirt or cap. I dont even own khakis. I think North Carolinas football program was as corrupt as Miamis. I dont drop to one knee when somebody says Roy. I was disappointed when the Charlotte Bobcats drafted North Carolinas Raymond Felton and Sean May.
So I write the following sentences not as a fan of the Tar Heels but as a fan of the NBA.
The Indiana Pacers will play the Bobcats Tuesday night at Time Warner Cable Arena. One of the players sliding toward the back edge of Indianas rotation, and perhaps oblivion, is former North Carolina star Tyler Hansbrough.
The Bobcats ought to trade for him.
He wont cost much. He cant. And Charlottes front line could use an infusion of hustle and energy.
If the Bobcats little men dont beat you, the Bobcats dont beat you. Charlottes top four scorers are guards.
Brendan Haywood, a smart, prototype center (and another North Carolina big man) doesnt so much play as make guest appearances.
Second-year player Bismack Biyombo, who like Hansbrough is 6-feet-9-inches, has moments. But rarely does he have games. Hes a superior athlete. But basics such as catching the ball and making it go in the basket still elude him. He was raw when he entered the NBA last season and still is.
DeSagna Diop, like Haywood a 7-footer, is said to be on the roster.
Byron Mullens, another 7-footer, is hurt. Although his game was evolving, his strength is long-range shooting.
If 6-10 Tyrus Thomas played the way he did when the Bobcats traded for him in 2010, theyd have a running, shot blocking, rebounding big man who resides above the rim. He doesnt.
There are evenings when you arent aware the Bobcats have big men.
You are aware of Hansbrough. He plays as hard as anybody in the league. He runs relentlessly, goes through bigger men for rebounds and is just really annoying. Thats why he shoots so many free throws. To see him is to want to foul him. Fans want to foul him.
Gerald Henderson, now of Charlotte, once of Duke, made incidental and accidental (I like Henderson) contact with Hansbrough in 2007, knocking him to the Dean Smith Center floor. Henderson, one of the Bobcats best players, would or should love Hansbrough as a teammate. Whats one more Tar Heel in the organization? Hes accustomed to them.
Hansbrough is 27 and in his fourth NBA season. He was the best player in the ACC but will never have the impact against the pros he had against, say, Wake Forest. He doesnt have a pro post-up game or a pretty jump shot. His game is kind of ugly.
It was ugly against the Bobcats last week. Hansbrough played 10 minutes, grabbed one rebound and had as many fouls, three, as he had points.
But in the season opener against the Bobcats, Hansbrough played 17 minutes, scored 15 points, grabbed six rebounds, blocked two shots and hit seven of eight from the free-throw line.
Hansbrough averages 16.3 minutes, 6.3 points and 4.1 rebounds. But only three times in the last 14 games has he played as many as 16 minutes.
Indiana is deep and talented and has a nicely constructed roster. Charlotte doesnt.
The Bobcats are as good as we thought theyd be and the season is playing out the way we thought it would.
So explore. If you can add a nice piece, add it. What would Hansbrough cost?
And whats there to lose?


text:
May 1, 2013 — Baseball:
1. Ashland (14-7)
2. Bath County (15-5)
3. Lewis County (17-8)
4. Greenup County (13-9)
5. Boyd County (13-11)
6. Russell (12-11)
7. East Carter (12-11)
8. Morgan County (12-5)
We are a few hours away from the month of May, where champions are made.
Ashland seems to be separating themselves from the rest of the pack, winning 10 of their last 13, including a three-hour, 40 minute contest against Boyd County last week. Greenup County is making a run at a district crown but Lewis remains in the hunt. Morgan County makes a return to the Crazy 8 after winning three straight this past weekend.
1. Ashland (16-7)
2. Boyd County (14-9)
3. Raceland (14-8)
4. Rowan County (16-11)
5. East Carter (17-8)
6. West Carter (8-9)
7. Fleming County (9-11)
8. Menifee County (11-14)
How about my alma mater, the Lady Rams? They have won 13 of their last 15 contests to boost a jump to No. 3 in this week's rankings.
We will found out how real they are with four big games this week including one with Ashland and West Carter. East Carter takes a tumble after a surprising loss to Fairview last week. They will square off with their rival Lady Comets on Friday.


text:
Sauteed Rice with Kale24 Reviews 3 Pics
Prep15 m
Cook20 m
Ready In35 m
"This is a recipe I whipped up when I was at loss on what type of rice side dish to serve with fish. Rice with chopped kale, onion, garlic, celery, green pepper, and mushrooms."
New! Find ingredients on sale
Tap On Sale, then swipe through different local stores.
Look through the ingredients list for store discounts!
This feature is in beta testing. Thanks for your patience as we improve it!
Add to Shopping List
Add to Shopping List
Add to Shopping List
Add to Shopping List
Add to Shopping List
Add to Shopping List
Add to Shopping List
Add to Shopping List
Add to Shopping List
Add to Shopping List
Add to Shopping List
Add to Shopping List
Adjust Servings
Original recipe yields 6 servings
- Place a steamer insert into a saucepan and fill with water to just below the bottom of the steamer. Bring the water to a boil. Add the kale, cover, and steam until just tender, 7 to 10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat; cook and stir onion, celery, mushrooms, green bell pepper, and garlic in the oil and butter mixture until the onion is tender, about 5 minutes. Stir kale and rice into the mixture, breaking the rice into grains with your spoon as you stir; season with dry mustard, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook and stir until the rice is hot, about 5 minutes.
Share It
Reviews (24)Rate This Recipe
I made this side dish tonight to have with broiled Tilapia. I was so glad I did...it was easy to make and tasted very good. Because I'm the first person to rate this recipe, I had no other reviewers suggestions to go on...so I made it exactly as directed. I usually look over other reviews and decide from the start what I'm going to add or delete to the recipe. Maybe that's not always a good plan as I prepared this one as directed and it was perfect! I enjoyed knowing there were so many fresh veggies in this, and because of that, it tasted so fresh and healthy. I plan to make this one over and over again and save it to My Recipes. The next time I plan to sprinkle some toasted cashews on top just before serving to take it over the top. Thanks BramptonMommyof2!
My wife and I have wanted to make Kale for awhile now to see if we would like it. So I found this recipe and WOW, we love it! So easy to make and so much flavor. Every component marries together so well. I sliced everything REALLY thin so that it almost disappears while sauteing but the flavor is there. I just added chicken breast to the dish and it was fantastic. I highly recommend this to everyone!
This was so tasty, the only thing I did different was that I sauteed the kale with the other vegetables instead of steaming it separately. Perfect side dish to incorporate veggies for kids.
Similar Recipes
Pork Fried Rice
Fried Rice (Sinangag)
Sauteed Beet Greens
Cajun Kale and Rice
Sauteed Kale with Apples
Tomato Bhath (Tomato Rice)
Amount Per Serving (6 total)
- Calories
- 321 cal
- 16%
- Fat
- 9.4 g
- 14%
- Carbs
- 52.8 g
- 17%
- Protein
- 5.4 g
- 11%
- Cholesterol
- 5 mg
- 2%
- Sodium
- 93 mg
- 4%
Based on a 2,000 calorie diet
previous recipe:
Sauteed Beet Greens
next recipe:
Egg and Vegetable Fried Rice


text:
Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke is out of options and luck.
Of course, he couldn't say that at Jackson Hole. Instead, he had to pretend that his magic was still strong and would be used, if necessary. By customizing mixtures of various powders (some apparently never used before), he would produce potions that would yield proper growth and balance to the US economy.
That Mr. Bernanke has the power to accomplish various things is not doubted. His power to destroy is very real, but his power to create or heal is much less so. Economists know that our economic problems are too much debt, distorted relative prices and mis-allocated resources. Correcting these are not within the Fed's powers.Mr. Bernanke's predecessor, Alan Greenspan, was worshiped and nicknamed "The Maestro" for his presumed ability to manage the economy. The press never bestowed such a halo on Bernanke, but they still provide him undeserved respect. In hindsight, Greenspan is viewed as the man most responsible for the current mess. It is likely the passage of time will not be kind to Mr. Bernanke either.
The Federal Reserve was questionable at its formation. Its creation was arguably unconstitutional, and its track record has been dismal. The ruling elite has always cloaked it in regal or majestic terms in an attempt to justify its validity. It is a valuable tool for government, but not so for the people. Recently the Fed's secrecy and even its necessity have come into question. So has its ability to manage the economy.
One wonders whether Bernanke truly believes what he says. His record of forecasting is dismal, evidenced by numerous, erroneous forecasts. If he is incapable of forecasting existing conditions, what makes him believe he is capable of altering (unknown) future conditions?
If Bernanke believes he can heal the economy, he is delusional. If not, he is a modern-day version of a con-man. The reality is that the head of the Federal Reserve has become little more than an institutionalized version of Elmer Gantry. For those who have seen behind the curtain, any Federal Reserve Chairman is little more than the Wizard of Oz. Unfortunately Mr. Bernanke happens to hold the position at a very difficult time making him appear as a pathetic figure who must pretend to have matters under control. Whether he is merely ignorant or is playing his role as a good soldier is moot.
Mr. Bernanke is destined by history and perhaps his own ego to be a pitiful figure. He is not a bad man or unintelligent. He is in an impossible position. The US passed the tipping point of being able to honor its debt and social obligations around two decades ago. The Federal budget is out of control and adding to the problem daily. There is no longer any way to cover the problem nor escape its inevitable end.
Mr. Bernanke referenced "unconventional methods" at Jackson Hole. Of course there were no specifics. The reality is that we have used "unconventional methods" for the past two years with little to show for it. Some were unimagined both in form and dosages.
What else, other than Bernanke's helicopter drops are left? The Fed is approaching its desperation point. Get ready for "unconventional" QE in dosages never before imagined.
This was originally posted on American Thinker


text:
Terrifying Horror Photo Manipulation
In this tutorial I will show you how to create photo manipulation with using of different textures and blending modes. I will also show you different ways how to set lights and shadows and how to adjust colors in your work to everything fix together. Let's get started


text:
Watch Live
Show Clips
News Clips
Fox News
Fox Business
Fox News Latino
Fox News Radio
Fox Nation
Fox News Insider
Expand Menu
Fox Business
Fox Business
Watch Live
Show Clips
News Clips
Logout Provider
Popout player →
Enlarge player →
powered by
Darrell Waltrip on Carl Edwards' Probation
May. 06, 2011 - 7:07 - FOX Sports' Darrell Waltrip on Imus' show and covering NASCAR at Fox Sports.
Interact with the Show
← Back to Browse Live


text:
The SMP Resource Center develops the following products and services
for use by the national SMP network. Click on the links for details.
The SMP Resource Center disseminates products and announcements,
including the training calendar, using the SMP listserv. The SMP
listserv is operated by the Administration for Community Living (ACL),
Administration on Aging (AoA). For AoA's policies regarding the
SMP listserv, click here.
Bulk reproduction of manuals, fact sheets, training kits, and other
Center publications is the responsibility of SMPs. As a courtesy,
however, the SMP Resource Center prints bulk quantities of manuals and
training kits if funding is available. Feel free to inquire.
For information on who at The Center can answer your questions about
training, technology, and other needs, click


text:
Cosmic Coincidence: Russian Meteor, Asteroid Near-Miss on Same Day
The swimming pool-sized asteroid is expected to pass Earth soon after 2 p.m. EST Friday.
A meteorite contrail is seen over a village of Bolshoe Sidelnikovo 50 km of Chelyabinsk, Russia, on Friday.
In a cosmic coincidence, the Russian meteorite that has reportedly injured more than 1,000 people is completely unrelated to the DA14 asteroid, which NASA says will pass closer to Earth than communications satellites later Friday.
[FOLLOW: U.S. News Live Blogs Asteroid Flyby]
The DA14 asteroid, which is 150 feet in diameter, is expected to fly within 17,200 miles of earth at about 2:25 p.m. EST Friday. According to NASA, the asteroid will pass "well away from Earth and the swarm of low Earth-orbiting satellites, including the International Space Station, but … inside the belt of satellites in geostationary orbit." Many of those further-out satellites are related to communication and weather prediction.
Earlier Friday, a meteorite smashed into Russia's Ural mountains. According to officials there, more than 1,000 people sought medical attention due to cuts from shattered glass.
According to NASA, the two events are entirely unrelated. Small meteorites slam into earth every couple of months, while the DA14 event is extremely rare. NASA says the flyby is the "closest-ever predicted approach to Earth for an object this large." The asteroid is reportedly "swimming-pool sized."
[ALSO: Retired Porn Star to Become First Adult Actress in Space]
"The trajectory of the Russian meteorite was significantly different than the trajectory of the asteroid 2012 DA14, making it a completely unrelated object," NASA said in a statement. "Information is still being collected about the Russian meteorite and analysis is preliminary at this point. In videos of the meteor, it is seen to pass from left to right in front of the rising sun, which means it was traveling from north to south. Asteroid DA14's trajectory is in the opposite direction, from south to north."
U.S. News will be live blogging the asteroid's close shave with Earth starting at 2 p.m. EST.
More News:


text:
By Mike Harrington
The NHL is going to an unbalanced schedule for this season, with no games against the other conference. After plenty of dribs and drabs leaking out, we finally got the goods late Saturday night. Here's how it breaks down for the Sabres:
Northeast Division (4 or 5 vs. each team--18 total)
Boston--5 (3 home, 2 road)
Montreal--5 (2-3)
Ottawa-4 (2-2)
Toronto-4 (2-2)
(Comment: It would have been good to avoid the fifth game with Boston, which remains the division favorite. Sabres didn't get that break)
Atlantic Division (3 vs. each team--15 total)
NY Rangers (2 home, 1 road)
NY Islanders (2-1)
New Jersey (2-1)
Philadelphia (2-1)
Pittsburgh (1-2)
Southeast Division (3 vs. each team -- 15 total)
Winnipeg (2 home, 1 away)
Carolina (1-2)
Washington (1-2)
Tampa Bay (1-2)
Florida (1-2)
(Comment: These work mostly in the Sabres' favor. They play a heavy home schedule against the tougher Atlantic Division, going only to Pittsburgh twice. And a real break by having to go to Winnipeg just once, the only team in the Southeast Division they don't travel to play twice. Plus lots of Sabres fans who live there or here love Florida trips and there are two of them, just like in a normal season.)
More notes on the schedule
By days: Saturday (9), Sunday (11), Monday (2), Tuesday (11), Wednesday (1), Thursday (9), Friday (5).
(Comment: The impact of requesting fewer Friday home games is clear. The team played just one Sunday game last season and now has 11).
By months: January (7), February (14), March (15), April (12).
How tight is it? Nine back-to-backs and a stunning eight sets of three games in four days.
(Comment -- Memo to Lindy Ruff: You're going to be watching plenty of video and not doing much practice on the ice after this week.)


text:
When the music started, 10 little girls, all dressed in red, picked up paper bamboo parasols and playfully spun them as they began to dance.
The girls, ages 8 – 10, represented the Lee-Ming Chinese School, based in the Montgomery County Community College's Blue Bell campus.
They gathered at the Lower Providence Community Library (LPCL), on Wednesday night, to demonstrate traditional Chinese Folk dances. The occasion was organized by the library's Children and Teen Department, in celebration of the upcoming Chinese New Year (taking place Feb. 10).
"It's our highest holiday for the year for the Chinese people," Teh Lin, Lee-Ming Chinese School dance instructor, told the library audience.
Lin hosted the dance performance, which included four folk dances and featured the use of bamboo parasols, silk handkerchiefs, feathered fans and belled costumes. Throughout the performances, Lin provided the audience a snipit of history and purpose behind each of the dances and involved props, as she does with her dance students at the Lee-Ming Chinese School.
"I explain the story behind every dance, and encourage them to look it up," Lin said after the performance. "The moves show the flavor of Chinese folk dance."
Finding Roots
According to Philip Chiang, Lee-Ming Chinese School president, the school was formed in 1976, and claimed that it is the oldest Chinese cultural education school in the Montgomery County and Philadelphia area. He said the purpose of the school was a way to preserve and promote the Chinese heritage.
The educational programs, as listed on the Lee-Ming Chinese School website, are designed with youth interests in mind:
- Chinese Culture
- Chinese Yo-Yo
- Kung Fu
- Lee-Ming Student Orchestra
- Tai Chi
The school also specializes in offering Chinese Adult Conversation classes and Chinese Bilingual classes, the latter of which focuses on youth that predominately speak English in their homes but would like to learn Mandarin Chinese.
The website makes it a point to state that the class is perfect for adopted children of Chinese decent, whose parents would like for them to maintain their heritage.
Chiang said that there are approximately 70 youth and several adult students currently enrolled in the various programs. He said that the school has a large population of second- or third-generation Asian, specifically Chinese, immigrants. However, he added that anyone with the desire to know more about the Chinese culture would be welcomed to the school.
"We just want to encourage cultural diversity, and expose Chinese culture; not just educate Chinese offspring, but everyone," Chiang said.
In order to help promote such cultural diversity, Chiang said youth from the school perform and demonstrate their cultural lessons four-to-five-times a year throughout Montgomery County. One particular event is the school's participation in the International Spring Festival, held in North Penn High School, of which Chiang said he is helping to organize this year.
Planting Seeds
According to Chiang, the dance program is one of the school's newest offerings, started by Teh Lin, approximately two years ago.
"We like her because she works well with the kids," Irene Chang, former principal of the school said.
According to Lin, she herself studied Chinese Folk dances as a youth in Taiwan. She recalled practicing eight hours at a time; four hours learning basic ballet and four more learning the traditional dances. She said that her parents had a big influence on her studying Chinese Folk dance, as both were professors of Chinese history in Taiwan.
Demonstrating such knowledge, during the LPCL performance, Lin explained some of the dances are over 2,000 years old.
However, by age 14, Lin abandoned serious studies in dance, and said she focused on her academics. Her educational pursuit eventually led her to a PhD in electrical engineering from the University of Michigan. Approximately two years ago, she found a job in the Philadelphia area, where she met people connected with the Lee-Ming Chinese school.
"They said, 'If you like to dance, why don't you show our kids?'" Lin recalled.
Although Lin modifies the dances to accommodate the young ages of the participants, she said it is not difficult in helping the youth understand the importance of practicing the tradition, in light that some of the youth may now be second-or third-generation Asian immigrants.
"All are Asian kids. It's in their blood," Lin said. "I just need to inspire them."
A Growing Demographic
Sandy Moles, LPCL Children and Teen librarian, said the Chinese New Year celebration performance is part of the library's effort to further engage a growing number of patrons of multicultural backgrounds.
"We have a fairly high Chinese patronage and Indian patronage here," Moles said.
In the most recent report by the U.S. Census Bureau, those claiming Asian decent make up an estimated 6.3-percent of the total Montgomery County population of 794,921. It is further reported those of Asian Indian and Chinese decent, respectively, are the most populous in the county with an estimated population of 49,796 Asian Indians and 15,917 Chinese.
According to Moles, this is the first time in recent memory that the library has held a program in celebration of the Lunar New Year holiday.
Moles recalled first seeing the Lee-Ming Chinese School dancers while attending last year's International Spring Festival.
"When I saw them dance, I thought, 'They are perfect,'" Moles said, adding, "I wanted to reach out to them, because I wanted to see more multicultural events in the library."
After the performance, youth library patrons were invited to the festively decorated community room to participate with "Year of the Snake" and Chinese culture-themed crafts.
"It's nice to see that they had a performance here to share the culture in the community," Benjamin Wu, a Lower Providence resident of Chinese decent said. Wu had brought his 5-year-old daughter with him to see the dance performances.
"It's good for the library to expose us to different cultures," Wu said.
In addition to increasing multicultural programming, LPCL has also recently increased the availability of bilingual children's literature.
The next expected LPCL multicultural event will occur in early November with the celebration of Diwali, the Indian Festival of Lights.
For more information, visit the Lee-Ming Chinese School website or the Lower Providence Community Library website.
Lee-Ming Chinese School New Year Celebration
The Lee-Ming School will host its annual Chinese New Year celebration at the Lai-Lai Garden Restaurant in Blue Bell, Feb 10, from 1:30 – 5 p.m. The event will include student performances and a dinner buffet. For more information, see the school's flyer.


text:
Learning Debian GNU/Linux
Author: Bill McCarty
Publisher: O'Reilly & Associates
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
URL: http://www.ora.com/
Price: $34.95 US
Reviewer: Marjorie Richardson
Like most O'Reilly books, Learning Debian GNU/Linux is well-organized and well-written. The author, Bill McCarty, is an associate professor of computer science and obviously knows his stuff. The layout is well-done, and not filled with cutesy graphics to distract the eye.
Many books geared for the Linux newbie have come out in the past year—most of them try to stay vendor-neutral. This book follows the recent trend of focusing on one distribution, in this case, Debian. I actually like this trend, as many newbies are confused when presented with variations in the different distributions, so sticking to one should make discussion clearer and shorten the learning curve for some. Also, Debian is not the easiest of distributions to install and use, so a book devoted to it is deserved.
This book contains a goodly amount of information, and not all of it is for the newbie. It is truly a guide to the entire system, not just an introduction. While introductory material such as a history of Linux, installing, configuring, definitions, etc. is presented, much more complex operations, such as setting up both a local (LAN) and a wide-area (WAN) network, are also described.
The material is presented in a straightforward manner, using clear, easy-to-understand language. However, I did feel the book was written with the computer-literate reader in mind. Even though he defines basics such as "what is an operating system", it still reads as if he expects you to already know. Indeed, he tells you how to get information you will need to install Linux by using your MS Windows menus.
Mr. McCarty devotes entire chapters to user administration and X configuration, as well as networking. His desktop of choice is GNOME, and it too receives a chapter. Also included are chapters on games and connecting to the Internet. The appendices include a Linux directory tree, the principal Linux files, Debian utilities and a Linux Command Quick Reference. A CD-ROM containing the Debian 2.1 distribution is bound into the book.
The book is not without its faults. One amusing mishap is in Chapter 4. An introduction to useful Linux programs states that you will learn the simple text editor pico, then the author proceeds to teach you the simple text editor ae. Guess he changed his mind.
Overall, Learning Debian GNU/Linux is a complete reference guide to this distribution, and well worth adding to your collection of Linux books.
Linux has become a key foundation for supporting today's rapidly growing IT environments. Linux is being used to deploy business applications and databases, trading on its reputation as a low-cost operating environment. For many IT organizations, Linux is a mainstay for deploying Web servers and has evolved from handling basic file, print, and utility workloads to running mission-critical applications and databases, physically, virtually, and in the cloud. As Linux grows in importance in terms of value to the business, managing Linux environments to high standards of service quality — availability, security, and performance — becomes an essential requirement for business success.
Sponsored by Red Hat
If you already use virtualized infrastructure, you are well on your way to leveraging the power of the cloud. Virtualization offers the promise of limitless resources, but how do you manage that scalability when your DevOps team doesn't scale? In today's hypercompetitive markets, fast results can make a difference between leading the pack vs. obsolescence. Organizations need more benefits from cloud computing than just raw resources. They need agility, flexibility, convenience, ROI, and control.
Stackato private Platform-as-a-Service technology from ActiveState extends your private cloud infrastructure by creating a private PaaS to provide on-demand availability, flexibility, control, and ultimately, faster time-to-market for your enterprise.
Sponsored by ActiveState
Trending Topics
|Silicon Mechanics Gives Back
|Jul 30, 2014
|Reglue: Opening Up the World to Deserving Kids, One Linux Computer at a Time
|Jul 29, 2014
|diff -u: What's New in Kernel Development
|Jul 23, 2014
|Great Scott! It's Version 13!
|Jul 21, 2014
|Adminer—Better Than Awesome!
|Jul 17, 2014
|It Actually Is Rocket Science
|Jul 16, 2014
- Silicon Mechanics Gives Back
- Reglue: Opening Up the World to Deserving Kids, One Linux Computer at a Time
- Numerical Python
- NSA: Linux Journal is an "extremist forum" and its readers get flagged for extra surveillance
- Linux Systems Administrator
- Download "Linux Management with Red Hat Satellite: Measuring Business Impact and ROI"
- Senior Perl Developer
- Technical Support Rep
- diff -u: What's New in Kernel Development
- UX Designer
Featured Jobs
|Linux Systems Administrator | Houston and Austin, Texas
|Host Gator
|Senior Perl Developer | Austin, Texas
|Host Gator
|Technical Support Rep | Houston and Austin, Texas
|Host Gator
|UX Designer | Austin, Texas
|Host Gator
|Web & UI Developer (JavaScript & j Query) | Austin, Texas
|Host Gator


text:
Star Beacon
CLEVELAND — "Jerry" Gerardo Garcia, age 50, of Geneva, Ohio, since 1989, passed away Monday, July 29, 2013, at the University Hospital Case Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio.
Born in Juana Diaz, Puerto Rico, on Dec. 4, 1962, he was the son of the late Ismael and Miguelina (Molina) Garcia. Jerry was married to Jeanann F. Ritchie.
Jerry did nursery work and landscaping most of his life, and also worked as a auto mechanic and cut hair on the side.
His wife, Jeanann, of 23 years and his family were most important to him. He loved doing a beautiful job of landscaping at his own home. A true lover of his dogs "Sam, Bella and Sommer". He enjoyed his Spanish music and playing the guitar. He loved helping people whenever they needed it.
Survivors include his wife, Jeanann; son, Gerardo (Rosa) Garcia of Maryland; stepson, Ben (Amy) Smith of Texas; six grandchildren; one brother, Hose of Connecticut; and eight sisters, Ana and Sonia, both of Pennsylvania, Milagro, Claribel, Cathy and Maria V. (Manuel) Garcia Flores, all of New Jersey, and Norma and Maria J., both of Connecticut.
Calling Hours will be 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Noon, on Saturday, August 3rd, at the WALKER FUNERAL HOME, 828 Sherman St., Geneva
Graveside Service will be directly after calling hours at Evergreen Cemetery, with Cora A. Walker officiating.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Walker Funeral Home.
Arrangements by WALKER FUNERAL HOME, 828 Sherman St., Geneva. Obituary and condolences at starbeacon.com.


text:
Botswana Safari (DZBT)
It's one thing to watch nature documentaries from the comfort of your couch–it's definitely another thing to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Botswana. During this unparalleled safari experience, you'll travel in open jeeps and boats in search of elephants, giraffes, lions and exotic birds before resting up in our comfortable tented camps, house boat and even a home stay. Be sure to pack your camera—it might just be the most important piece of gear you bring with you.
Highlights: Enjoy the safari experience in open jeeps and boats searching out the Big Five, photograph African sunsets and enjoy a sundowner with our local host at a homestay, cruise a more secluded section of the Okavango Delta by houseboat in search of wildlife, travel in a small group of 9 for more up close and personal views
Rwanda and Uganda Gorilla & Chimp Adventure (DRGR)
They're the closest animals out there to us homo sapiens, and on this trip we aim to bring you as close as possible to these majestic creatures. There'll be gorillas, monkeys and chimps in abundance on this 9-day trip through Rwanda and Uganda. Take part in jungle trekking, embark on boat and jeep safaris in national parks, and learn about Rwanda's fascinating culture and history along the way. With an expert local CEO throughout and comfortable lodges to relax in during your down time, your focus can stay on spotting rare primates in their natural habitat.
Highlights: Get up close and personal with mountain gorillas in their backyard, trek through the forest to visit Golden Monkeys, meet local people and gain a better understanding of Rwanda then and now, encounter more primates on a chimp trek in Uganda, search for hippos while enjoying a boat ride down the Kazinga Channel
Cape, Rails & Kruger Quest (DSKQ)
Stretched across nearly 2.5 million hectares of wild South African frontier and home to over 600 species of mammals and birds, Kruger National Park is massive by any measure. Designed for travellers who don't have a ton of time, this 8-day trip devotes the, ahem, lion's share of its length to exploring South Africa's most treasured game reserve with a few bonus experiences mixed in along the way. Get treated to a traditional family meal in Cape Town, take the train to Johannesburg with the locals, track the Big Five on daily game drives in Kruger and the surrounding area, and visit Soweto and a Planeterra project, too. One week now, memories forever.
Highlights: Take the train across the country like a local, explore coastal Cape Town, bike around Soweto township, search for the Big Five in Kruger National Park, savour a local meal with a family, visit the kids at the Planeterra-supported G Hope Africa preschool
Cape of Good Hope Hike (DACH)
Sure, you could see South Africa from the back of a 4x4 on a safari, but there's nothing like the feel of Table Mountain under your feet as you hike to the summit. Get your sweat on as you take the short, challenging hike up the mountain before continuing down into Cape Point National Park, enjoying the great views and variety of landscapes across South Africa. You'll have the chance to immerse yourself in local village culture along the way, as well as visiting the African penguin sanctuary.
Highlights: Hike to the summit of Table Mountain, follow the Vlakkenberg Trail and climb to the summit of Swartkop, enjoy a delicious lunch in a local township, watch penguins on the beach in Simon's Town, walk among the rocky landscape of Cape Point National Park
- Travel Style:
- Active
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 4
Botswana Safari (DZBT)
Rwanda and Uganda Gorilla & Chimp Adventure (DRGR)
Cape, Rails & Kruger Quest (DSKQ)
Cape of Good Hope Hike (DACH)
|Service Level
|Starting Price
|Botswana Safari (DZBT)
|10 days
From $4299
|Rwanda and Uganda Gorilla & Chimp Adventure (DRGR)
|9 days
From $4999
|Cape, Rails & Kruger Quest (DSKQ)
|8 days
From $1499
|Cape of Good Hope Hike (DACH)
|7 days
From $1124


text:
Professional Dog Trainer Leads Free Interactive Session on Training at Village Critter Outfitter on January 22nd
New Canaan, CT, January 16, 2013 – Village Critter Outfitter is hosting an event this month at its store geared to dog owners with puppies and dogs of all ages. On Tuesday, January 22nd, Jody Rosengarten, professional dog trainer, behavior therapist and author, will discuss training in an interactive session called "Training a Good Enough Dog".
With a lifelong focus on understanding the perspectives of our four-legged friends, Jody presents new, realistic approaches to dog training which favor kinder, gentler practices that recognize a dogs' natural joie de vivre and individuality, rather than the rigidity of traditional obedience training. Her training philosophy: understanding dogs leads to better results.
"We are delighted to have Jody share her insights on dog training", explained Shirleen Dubuque, owner of Village Critter Outfitter. "She brings a wealth of experience and a compassionate approach to training that all dog owners will enjoy. It's free and open to everyone… although, for this event, humans only."
Here is an opportunity to learn a new approach, ask questions and hear first hand from one of the leading experts in dog training. Plus, there will be a raffle for signed copies of Jody Rosengarten's book, "Rover, Don't Roll Over". The session takes place on January 22nd from 6:00 to 7:00pm at Village Critter Outfitter, 107 Cherry Street. For more information, visit www.villagecritteroutfitter.com or call the store at 203-972-7000.


text:
We the media: grassroots journalism by the people, for the people
O'Reilly, 2004 - Computers - 299 pages
Grassroots journalists are dismantling Big Media's monopoly on the news, transforming it from a lecture to a conversation. Not content to accept the news as reported, these readers-turned-reporters are publishing in real time to a worldwide audience via the Internet. The impact of their work is just beginning to be felt by professional journalists and the newsmakers they cover. In "We the Media: Grassroots Journalism by the People, for the People," nationally known business and technology columnist Dan Gillmor tells the story of this emerging phenomenon, and sheds light on this deep shift in how we make and consume the news.
"We the Media" is essential reading for all participants in the news cycle:
Consumers learn how they can become producers of the news. Gillmor lays out the tools of the grassroots journalist's trade, including personal Web journals (called weblogs or blogs), Internet chat groups, email, and cell phones. He also illustrates how, in this age of media consolidation and diminished reporting, to roll your own news, drawing from the array of sources available online and even over the phone.
Newsmakers politicians, business executives, celebrities get a wake-up call. The control that newsmakers enjoyed in the top-down world of Big Media is seriously undermined in the Internet Age. Gillmor shows newsmakers how to successfully play by the new rules and shift from control to engagement.
Journalists discover that the new grassroots journalism presents opportunity as well as challenge to their profession. One of the first mainstream journalists to have a blog, Gillmor says, "My readers know more than I do, and that's a good thing." In "We the Media," he makes thecase to his colleagues that, in the face of a plethora of Internet-fueled news vehicles, they must change or become irrelevant.
At its core, "We the Media" is a book about people. People like Glenn Reynolds, a law professor whose blog postings on the intersection of technology and liberty garnered him enough readers and influence that he became a source for professional journalists. Or Ben Chandler, whose upset Congressional victory was fueled by contributions that came in response to ads on a handful of political blogs. Or Iraqi blogger Zayed, whose Healing Irag blog (healingiraq.blogspot.com) scooped Big Media. Or acridrabbit, who inspired an online community to become investigative reporters and discover that the dying Kaycee Nichols sad tale was a hoax. Give the people tools to make the news, "We the Media" asserts, and they will.
Journalism in the 21st century will be fundamentally different from the Big Media that prevails today. We the Media casts light on the future of journalism, and invites us all to be part of it.
From inside the book
23 pages matching Dean in this book
Where's the rest of this book?
Results 1-3 of 23
What people are saying - Write a review
User ratings
|5 stars
|4 stars
|3 stars
|2 stars
|1 star
Review: We the Media: Grassroots Journalism by the People, for the PeopleUser Review - Danielle Cronquist - Goodreads
I don't think that Dan Gillmor was the first one propose the idea that modern technology is evolving the ways that we produce and consume news, but he traced it and explained it in a way that was ... Read full review
Review: We the Media: Grassroots Journalism by the People, for the PeopleUser Review - Kayla - Goodreads
Dan Gillmor's "We the Media" starts a conversation about the direction of journalism (in the same way that he claims the news has and must become a conversation instead of a lecture). It covers the ... Read full review
From Tom Paine to Blogs and Beyond i
The ReadWrite Web
The Gates Come Down
9 other sections not shown


text:
Special to the Record-Eagle
---- — TRAVERSE CITY — When Becky Cain's son Liam and a friend recently headed back to college in Oklahoma, they took a batch of her beloved oatmeal chocolate chip cookies with them.
Over the years, Cain's cookies have become legendary among her four children's friends and families.
"I've made them for my kids' friends, West Senior High musicals and road trips," recalled the Traverse City resident who started baking the cookies to soothe her teenage daughter's romantic ups and downs, then for their friends. Eventually, if her kids' friends put their names on her calendar, she made them the cookies as a gift.
It's a labor of love, explained Cain, but she has always loved baking.
"I love the science of putting yummy things together," she said.
However, Cain realized a few years ago that her love of sugary goodies wasn't doing her body any favors. Deciding she needed to reboot her diet, and encouraged by her then 16-year-old daughter, Cain took a class in 2010 at her chiropractor's office. Called "The Biggest Winner," the 10-week course pulled together healthy eating, thinking and exercise in a team atmosphere.
It changed the way she looked at her diet and lifestyle.
"I thought I knew all about healthy eating and I did Bikram yoga six to seven days a week, but I was at a plateau," she said.
The next step was to remove processed foods from her diet.
"I wanted to do the best that I could," she said, adding that there are levels of ways to eat healthier.
For example, she might use dried beans instead of canned. If a recipe called for a can of vegetables, she'd try using frozen, or better yet, fresh. Grown locally? Even better, said Cain.
As she tweaked her diet, she found recipes she liked and put her own spin on them.
"I'd find recipes and then I'd "healthify" them," she explained.
Cain has assembled those recipes in a 70-page cookbook titled, "Humbly Healthy," which she sells and gives as gifts. The idea arose after she was invited to four weddings last summer and wanted to give a gift that was inexpensive, yet meaningful.
"It has a little of everything," she said.
Cain hasn't actively marketed the book, but has made it available for purchase to family and friends.
In addition, Cain often shares her latest recipes with Facebook friends. That would include a green soup that she makes once a week to have for lunch over several days.
Although Cain loves eating healthier, it's not without it's drawbacks, she said.
"I have to do most of my cooking on the weekends," said Cain, who also works full-time. "It takes time to plan and execute these kinds of meals. I had to fall in love with my kitchen again.
"Ultimately, though I'm taking better care of myself and in the best possible way."
Cain's cookbook is $18. To purchase a copy contact her at 620-2682 or firstname.lastname@example.com or visit humblyhealthy.blogspot.com.
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
1 c. (2 sticks) butter1 c. packed dark brown sugar1 c. sugar2 large eggs1 t. vanilla extract1 ½ c. flour1 t. baking soda½ t. salt3 c. uncooked oatmeal (Cain prefers old fashioned, but quick oats work just fine)12 oz. chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 375°. In a large bowl, beat butter until light. Add sugars; beat until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla; beat well. Add flour, baking soda and salt; mix well. Stir in oatmeal and chocolate chips until thoroughly combined. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto a cookie sheet (Cain likes to line hers with parchment paper for easy clean up). Bake 10-12 minutes or until cookies are just set. Do not over bake. Makes about 5 dozen.
Marvelous Minestrone
2 T. extra virgin olive oil2 medium carrots, peeled, cut into 1/2" dice (about 1 cup)1 1 cup fennel6 c. low sodium chicken broth1 c. red onion, diced2 large cloves garlic, finely chopped2 bay leaves2 t. fresh thyme leaves, chopped1/4 t. fennel seeds, crushed1 1/2 c. cooked cannellini beans (white kidney beans), rinsed and drained2 c. fresh plum tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and diced1/3 c. uncooked quinoaKosher salt and ground black pepper to taste1 c. fresh spinach, cut chiffonade1 T. basil, thinly sliced2 oz. Parmigiano Reggiano, finely grated (about 1/2 c.), optional
In a large heavy bottomed pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add carrots, fennel, onion, garlic, bay leaves, thyme and fennel seeds, and cook, stirring often, until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes. Add 6 c. low-sodium chicken broth, beans, tomatoes and quinoa. Heat to boiling, then reduce heat to low and simmer until quinoa is tender, about 20 minutes. Remove bay leaves and season with salt and pepper. Stir spinach and basil into soup just before serving in bowls. Garnish each with 1 T. cheese, if desired. (From "The Biggest Winner")
Green Soup
2 T. olive oil2 large yellow onions chopped1 t. salt divided2 T. plus 3 c. water1 yam (smallish) 1 bunch kaleApproximately 14 c. spinach4 c. vegetable brothBig pinch cayenne pepperLemon juice to taste
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add onions and 1/4 t. salt; cook, stirring frequently until onions start turning brown (about 5 minutes). Reduce heat and add 2 T. water. Cook, stirring occasionally (cover between stirs), until onions are reduced and have a deep caramel color — 25-30 minutes.Meanwhile, combine 3 c. water and ¾ t. salt in a soup pot; add the diced yam. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and cook for 15 minutes. Trim the white ribs out of the kale; coarsely chop kale and spinach. When yam is soft, add the kale. Cook for 10 minutes. When the onions are caramelized, stir them into the soup pot with spinach, broth and cayenne. Return to simmer, cover and cook until spinach is tender but still bright green — about 5 minutes more.Puree the soup in the pot with an immersion blender until smooth or in a regular blender in batches (return to pot). Stir in 1 T. lemon juice. Taste and add more if desired. (Note: Cain likes to use rice or potatoes to thicken.) (Adapted from "The Soup for Life" by Anna Thomas.)


text:
Here at Animal Care & Control we find ourselves with lots of animals in need of good homes filled with care and love.
Many of these animals are given the chance to start new lives with caring, loving owners. In response, and with thanks, to these great people, we wanted to give you the chance to see and hear from them and their pets. We call them Adoption Success Stories.
Mary Blue
From The Owner:
Just an update about Mary Blue who has been with us since Sept. 3rd. Mary Blue sends her thanks to those who worked hard on her behalf. The Pinal County Animal Care & Control team, Desert Heelers K9 Rescue, Second Chance Center for Animals, and Fedwell Farms Rescue & Sanctuary (Carrie Wright) all helped to make her life here possible. She's growing bigger and stronger every day, and is smart, alert, feisty, energetic, and loving. She's learning the ropes quickly and is making lots of friends! Mary Blue is very well-suited to our rural small ranch life.
Mary Blue began her life in Pinal County, then animal rescue and sanctuary organizations in Maricopa and Coconino counties assisted her before we brought her to her "forever home" in Yavapai. She traveled a lot for such a young pup before coming to the ranch! We were actively looking for a herding dog breed when we read her story and saw her photos on Petfinder. We drove 260 miles round-trip to adopt her and bring her here! Goes to show the power of cooperation between agencies and the ability to connect with potential adoptive families across the miles!
BDS Ranch Family, Yavapai County
Buddy's Story Mine is a story of evil, kindness, destiny and love.
From The Owner:No one knows who, no one knows why, no one can conceive the evils that one human could bring upon mans best friend. The best friend was me; I am a young, small Jack Russell Terrier. I don't know what I did that was so bad. I know I had a lot to learn, the world was new to me, you see I was just a puppy, doing puppy things. My human did not understand or care for my puppiness, and one day, one tragic day, my human poured something, some type of chemical on me and it burned! It burned 30% of my little body. I was found wandering the streets of Pinal County, in Arizona, a nice lady who worked for the Pinal Animal Shelter. She took me to the doctor and then she took me home, gave me name "Buddy" she cared for my owies day and night, cleaning and dressing my burns. I saw and felt many new things with this human, my new human was gentle, caring and kind, but something else, I saw sadness in her eyes when she looked at me, the same sadness and pain I felt. I loved my new human and she loved me.I thought my journey had come to an end, I was home. Then came destiny, I believe that is what they call it-when something unlikely happens, something that in your wildest dreams could never happen, well it happened. My loving, caring, human was being transferred to another state, although I know she desperately wanted to take me with her, destiny found me back at the animal shelter. Lonely, scared, my owies still hurting and now my heart too. I wasn't alone, lonely, but not alone, I had many companions, honestly too many. All of us sad, lonely and scared, daring to dream the same dream-one day, one glorious day we would get to go home, a forever home, with loving, caring, humans.Day after day, night after night, I dared to dream, I did a lot of dreaming, and after all they say "Dreams really do come true".One day, one glorious day, I was going home, my forever home, I was adopted me! ADOPTED! My humans are kind, loving and extremely smart-they saw pass my physical scars, understood my emotional scars and saw me, ME! My huge heart, my strong spirit, my beautiful brown eyes, they saw not only the love I needed, but the love I had to give. The next morning I knew my forever home was destiny when I woke up in the biggest, most comfortable bed with my two loving humans and my new pug siblings. I was so excited jumping and jumping, kissing everyone, I learned something new that morning, something I often wondered about, my new mommy was laughing, when she looked at me and said, "Yes! Buddy, dreams really do come true!"
From The Owner:On June 25th 2009 my wife and I adopted one of your dogs who was named "voyage." He is a beautiful dapple dachshund whom we saw on Petfinder. At first his adjustment to life in a normal home was difficult. He didn't know what a toy was and seemed to have had limited human contact. He may have been a breeder dog which no one really took care of. We have had a dog trainer come into our home once a week. The progress "Soto," now his name has made is amazing. He is almost crate trained, and his only problem is separation anxiety. For that reason one of us is always home with him. You do a great job rescuing these dogs, photographing them in a special way, and seeing to their adoption. Ashley who works for you helped us on the phone and your staff helped us when we adopted Soto. Enclosing some pictures. We really love this dog. He is in his forever home. Fried Bonnie and Martin
From The Owner:We just wanted to drop you a note to let you know Mercedes is doing very well with us. She fits in really good with our other dogs. Here is a pic of our dogs at the Arizona border collie rescue round up last weekend. We were camping up north that weekend and spent Saturday at the round up. That was her 2nd camping trip. She is a great addition to our family and we love her very much.
A 'Penny' worth so much more
From The Owner:Our dog passed away two years ago, and we finally were ready to add a new member to our family. Sweet Natasha, we call her Penny now, had been waiting at the shelter for us to come along for quite a while. We are so lucky that she didn't go home with anyone else. It is as if Penny has been with us forever. She loves to cuddle and can't get enough pets from us. She is definitely a "lap dog". Early morning walks are her favorite along with doggie treats and taking naps with Dad. Penny also has lots of energy and a funny personality that makes us laugh. She just loves to be with us and has certainly filled a void in our household. We commend the service that you provide at the shelter. It is evident that all of the staff and volunteers are dedicated and caring. You are making a difference! Thank you for taking such good care of Penny, so we could become her new family. The Renfros
Breaking the bonds of cruelty
From The Owner:I have a long, overdue adoption success story for which I need to thank Pinal Animal Care and Control. My name is Ellen Leeper and about six years ago, I adopted a dog from your organization whom you had taken from her owners because of charges of animal cruelty. Her name was Missy and her owners were prosecuted. She was registered with Pinal Animal Care and Control as a Shepherd mix. When you rescued Missy from her owners, she weighed about 26 pounds (she weighs 60 pounds now). The photographs you took for the court documentation, which I still have, reveal an animal starved for so long that every bone in her body, including those on her skull, were visible. She had tick fever, dysentery, and other ailments. Your organization gave her extensive veterinary care that saved her life. I hope I have continued that care to this day. Ironically, your staff informed me that the owners had the nerve after prosecution to return to the shelter and beg for her back because the kids "missed her." Her name is no longer Missy. We call that name her "slave name." She knows herself as Latisha, or Tisha, for short. A breeder confirmed that Latisha is a mixture of American Dingo and Yellow Lab. American Dingos are sometimes called Native American dogs or Carolina dogs.Nevertheless, Tisha is the love of my life. She has her best friend and companion. Pip, my male Husky/Black Lab mix. She loves Pip with an almost unfathomable longing. They are inseparable. Tisha, Pip, and I lived in Arizona on 20 acres in Maricopa until I got a job with Boeing in Seattle. We got a house in a suburb of Seattle and spent many weekends on the Oregon Coast staying in our special "dog friendly" hotel where Tisha loved the ocean. After I was laid off from Boeing after September 11th, I bought a new fifth wheel and we traveled traveled over 20,000 miles throughout the West and across the United States. I made a sign on the back of my RV that said, "Pip, Tisha, and Ellen's Excellent Adventure." It was an amazing experience. Despite the RV, the dogs got tremendous exercise hiking, swimming, and running in the woods. I am a pretty active outdoors person.Tisha has always been admired by everyone who meets her and they always comment on what a beautiful dog she is. To this day, Tisha has traveled more than most people I know and has sniffed and played in nearly every forest, oceanside, mountain, and canyon in the U.S. She is truly a tenacious and seasoned "travelin' dog." Her soft spirit, patience, and adaptability is invaluable for a journey woman like me. I am single and love to travel, but my dogs must always accompany me wherever I go. We are a pack and I could not imagine my life without them.Tisha had lots of emotional problems due to the horrible treatment by her owners. For a long time, she expected abuse and wanted nothing to do with human beings. After a lot of patience and building of trust, Tisha is the number 1 snuggler in the house and has transcended all her fears and phobias. She is a gift to my life.I have attached some photos from our travels, but the best ones I have because I don't have a scanner. I will try to send some better ones at a later time.We have settled back down in Seattle while I work and finish my teaching degree. Tisha goes to doggie daycare and the dog beach on Puget Sound when I am away or at home. She has learned to get along with other dogs, which was a trial for her at first, and she tends to like littler dogs on the beach to play with. She is still a bit shy and afraid of big dogs. Now that I am back to work, I am sending a donation to your organization for the wonderful work you do and the tremendous gift you brought into my life. I hope you know that the work you do matters. You save lives. I hope I have continued the extension of your work by giving my commitment for the duration of Tisha's life. I know that when she closes her eyes to this world, she will have only good memories and knowledge of love and security. That is a reward I would not trade for the world.Ellen Leeper
Once a stray pup, now a significant family member
From The Owner:Dear Animal Control:This is a long-overdue acknowledgement of the pleasant experience I had recently at the Pinal County Animal Care and Control facility.Let me give you a little background: I was helping my sister (who lives in PHX) research finding another pet, as they recently lost their 10-yr old greyhound. The loss was so recent, my sister wasn't sure they could bear another greyhound; as I've had such wonderful experience with my lab crosses, I included this breed in my search on Petfinder.com. One of the results of my search was a young lab cross in your facility. As it turned out, my sister decided they would prefer to wait a while before getting another pet. However, I was smitten with the dog I'd located for her.I contacted the PCACC and learned the dog (Godiva) was still available. I made several calls to Karen as I inquired about the dog's age, size, temperament, origination circumstances, and made arrangements for adoption. Karen was most helpful in answering all my inquiries. As I currently reside in the San Francisco Bay Area, I was relieved when Karen said it would be okay for my brother-in-law (from PHX) make the initial trip to Casa Grande to complete the adoption paperwork.In hindsight, realizing that I initially contacted PCACC on Monday (8/25) and drove 700 miles just 3 days later (8/28) to pick up a dog I had never interacted with is... well the wildest, most harebrained thing I've ever done!!! But, because Karen set the correct expectations--speaking openly and honestly about the dog, the result could not be better! I'm very happy to report that I have a GREAT dog with whom I'm delighted; she interacts very well with my 10+yr-old lab cross, is very eager to please, and could not be sweeter!I want to thank you, Jane, for the services you all provide at PCACC and recognize Karen for all the help she provided in placing what was once "simply a stray pup, roaming the streets of Casa Grande" into my home, as a very significant family member. Thank you, --Lynn
Where everyone knows your name
From the Owner:
Hi [Animal Control]!Last week (Wednesday), my husband and I adopted "Kathleen", a lab/shepherd mix puppy from your shelter. I saw her picture on Petfinder.com and fell completely head-over-heals in love! Seeing her in person, well, she just stuck out like a sore thumb in the pack of puppies you had. We both immediately said, "She's the one"! [An AC&C Officer] took her out of the kennel and we brought her up to the lobby. What a bundle of energy! Great personality, she's just perfect! Tomorrow will be one week and we couldn't be happier with her! We've already taken two 1/2 rolls of film of her playing in the grass in our backyard, playing with toys, sleeping with me on the floor of our living room, she's just a wonderful little girl! We changed her name to "Hailey" (which I think fits her better than "Kathleen") :) Your staff was great getting all of her information put together for us and I can't thank you all enough for letting us adopt her! I'll be keeping in touch via email with [Animal Control] with updated photos of Hailey! She was definately our "missing link"!
How Do You Spell Success: "Freedom"
February 25th 2003: Freedom made his television debut on the CBS show "Jag" as a bomb-sniffing dog.
Freedom's Story:Shortly after 9/11 Friends for Life Animal Sanctuary volunteers pulled a German Shepherd we named "Freedom" from your facility. The name "Freedom" seemed fitting with the world events and the fact that this dog was also gaining freedom and the chance at a new life. Shortly after his rescue Freedom met his new family at our adoption center. Janice Gantenbein was in Arizona, visiting from California. It was a star-struck encunter for both Freedom and Janice. Freedom made the trip back to Gantenbein's home in California where he joined her other anmimals; most of them rescued. Several of those animals also dabble in the film and television industry. In fact, Gantenbein trained the rat, Memphis, who appears in the new hit movie "Daredevil".Janice immediately began teaching Freedom basic obedience as well as taking him to Paramount Studios where he became acquainted with the sites and sounds of television and movie sets.In Freedom's role on Jag he plays a bomb-sniffing dog. Freedom's scenes are shared with his Aunt Barbara. It truly is a family affair. Gantenbein says "Freedom really got into the Hollywood "thing". Freedom reported to the set of Jag in the evenings and spent his days like any other star, lounging near the pool and snoozing outside his hacienda.
New Family, New Friends ... A New Beginning
This is thanks to [Animal Control] and all the folks at Pinal County!!! Looks like the [German Sheppard] is in a wonderful home.
From The Owner:"I just wanted to show you how well Kia (I got that name from one of your [German Sheppards] you had) is adapting. I didn't want to let her loose until she got more familiar with our property, but she doesn't seem to have any intentions of going anywhere so we let her run loose. Of-course we will always be with her just in-case but she seems to already be at home with us. I can't believe her owners didn't come to find her. She is perfect and so content with us, I think she knows she's in a good place. Thank you again."
The Cat Nobody Wanted ... A Cat Named "Hootie"
We received this Siamese when he was a baby and rather unattractive. Many shelter shoppers looked at him but he just didn't seem to please anyone.Then Karyn, one of our licensing clerk-front office angels, called a potential adopter who came in. It only took one look and unnamed kitty became "Hootie" because he is such a "hoot".Now you can see just how gorgeous Hootie became. He's in a wonderful home with humans who spoil him completely.This is what adoptions through Animal Care and Control is all about!
From The Owner:"Can you believe that no one wanted this guy. I lost my cat of 9 years and told Pinal County I was looking for a cat. [Animal Control] called me up and said we have this little guy with a big nose, who loves to have his tummy rubbed. Well, It was love at first sight. He has grown from the little fellow with the big nose to this handsome boy. Hootie is a hoot. He is king of the cats and dogs in our house and has a personality that makes him shine."
Pinal County is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/H/V
Send any comments, questions, criticisms, or suggestions about the website to the WebMaster.
Pinal County Government Web Disclaimer
Site Map ©