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How's my writing? Would you read a story like this?
Question by HP Resource: How's my writing? Would you read a story like this?
This is an edited version of a writing exercise from last week. My goal was to make it less of an "exercise" and closer to the beginnings of an actual story. Are any parts confusing? Does anything make you go "that's dumb"? Please be specific! Thanks for reading!
Meredith Staple loved dating, but hated first dates. She was ten minutes late, had rolled a high-heeled ankle, tore her stockings, lost her date's phone number and realized that she had forgotten to put on deodorant.
"Dianne!" Meredith shrieked into her cell phone, limping across a crosswalk.
"Is the date over already?"
"Dianne, are you sure this restaurant exists? I've been down the block twice already. The hot dog vendor thinks I'm stalking him."
"He hopes you're stalking him. When you do yourself up for a date you're one of the most gorgeous women in the city."
"I'm also one of the most lost women in the city… where the hell is this place?"
"You won't see it until you're right next to it," Dianne said. "He didn't make up the restaurant; James wouldn't ditch you before he's even met you."
"He'll just wait until I've sat down to ditch me?"
"You know what I mean."
"Will he be mad that I'm late?"
Dianne hesitated.
"Dammit, Dianne, why do you set me up with the most uptight guys?"
"He's not that uptight… just a little particular. Once he talks to you he won't even care how crazy you are."
Meredith cursed at her throbbing ankle.
"How is it that I train for marathons without a scratch, but I get an injury walking to a restaurant?"
"First dates are their own kind of marathon," Dianne said.
"Yeah, and I'm a veteran with a lot of miles behind me."
Meredith nearly passed the restaurant for a third time.
"Okay I found the restaurant, I've gotta go."
"Wait!" Dianne called desperately from halfway to Meredith's purse.
"God, WHAT?" Meredith pressed the cell against her shoulder. "I'm already late!" She plumped her hair with her free hands.
"Can you see him? Tell me what you think. You need a minute to catch your breath, anyway."
The windows were like mirrors, reflecting the lights of the passing cars. Meredith cupped her free hand against her face and pressed herself up to the window.
She hadn't expected tables to be directly on the other side of the glass.
Squatting awkwardly, with her face pressed into the glass and contorted into what she later realized was a stupefied expression, Meredith was nearly face-to-face with a man seated for dinner. He had been smiling at the waitress, his teeth gleaming against chocolate-brown skin. He was so handsome that Meredith's impulse to push away from the glass was overwhelmed by the impulse to stare at his smile and into his eyes and enjoy the girlish leaping of her heart.
Though her eyes never left his face, Meredith registered that he was holding a rose exactly like the one James said he would bring. She felt her eyebrows fly into her bangs. This was James.
James also realized who he was looking at, and his smile turned to the expression one wears while watching a person about to get hurt on America's Funniest Videos. "THIS is my date?" was written all over his mortified face.
With his smile gone, Meredith regained her wits and her impulse to push away from the glass. The entire restaurant was staring at her. She limped away from the window, cursing frantically.
"If you think he's that unattractive," said a voice near Meredith's ear, "there is no man in the world hot enough for you." Meredith had completely forgotten about Dianne.
"Dianne, he's the most handsome guy I've ever seen in my life and I just made an ass of myself."
"Did he see you make an ass of yourself?"
"Of course! I pancaked myself against the window to look inside and he was RIGHT THERE. He looked horrified. I'd be surprised if he's still sitting there." Meredith's thudding heartbeat almost made her cough. She took a shallow breath and said, "I'm not going to go in."
"Meredith…" Dianne sounded exasperated.
"It'll be better this way," Meredith said. "He gets to leave without feeling guilty for not calling me back, and I won't feel guilty about letting him pay for a really expensive meal." She was already feeling better, thinking about going back home, getting out of her stupid heels and curling up with a pint of ice cream.
"If you don't go back in there and make a good second-impression," Dianne was using her serious voice now, "I'm swear to God I will follow you to every first date you will ever have for the rest of your life and make sure that they're more miserable than this one has been so far."
Meredith groaned. Dianne wasn't joking.
"What if I just never have a first date again for the rest of my life?"
"Isn't that what you've been hoping for?"
Meredith closed her eyes. She nodded, even though Dianne couldn't see her. Behind her eyelids she saw James's smile and her heart swelled with the possibility of this date leading
to marriage and a life of no more dating. The swell became an ache when she thought of giving up that possibility for some silly Haagen-Daaz.
"Will you still call me in a half hour?" Meredith sighed, "just in case I need a pretend emergency to bail me out?"
"I will. Now go."
Meredith shakily slid the phone into her purse and snapped the clasp shut. She limped towards the restaurant door, past the window where a lanky kid in an apron was glaring at her and wiping down the skin-smudged glass.
She mentally rehearsed what she would say to break the ice. Hopefully it would be enough to turn a first date into a last first date.
If you're interested in seeing the previous draft: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=Avd2QRr3SccBDEftkJjRMVnty6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20090425165804AAzRvIl
Thanks again for reading!
Best answer:
Answer by (:
aw, thats reallly good! i'd love to read the rest of it! it'd also be great if you got published. this is really good, no lie. something i'd read. i love this part:
"Dianne, are you sure this restaurant exists? I've been down the block twice already. The hot dog vendor thinks I'm stalking him."
great job, girl! keep writing. you'll go far. -emily.
Know better? Leave your own answer in the comments!
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Have you ever had to give your cat a pill? Does your pet hate the taste of medication? Trying to get your animal to swallow a tablet is not easy and it often just goes to waste!
We take the stress out of medicating your pet so you can go back to being best friends. We prepare flavored treats to help the medicine go down — and with dozens of flavors to choose from, it's sure to be in the most delightful way!
At Aborn Compound Pharmacy, all of our veterinary compounds are prepared for individual animals with individual needs.
Just like you, animals are individual and unique. Not all commercially available medicines are appropriate for your pet. They often do not come in the proper dose. Custom medication compounding allows you to give your pet the exact dose they need in a dosage form that works best for you and your pet.

subset: commoncrawl


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Strength & Conditioning Exercises for Pointe Work
You've been assessed for being ready for pointe work and been fitted for and received your very first pair of pointe shoes - how exciting! However, the last thing you want to end up with is an injury so before you rush into testing them out, a word of warning: take it slowly and carefully and definitely under teaching supervision. There are a range of strength and conditioning exercises you can do on a regular basis to prepare and maintain your body and feet for optimal health, safety and readiness.
A final word - graduating to pointe work is exciting but is it also very demanding on the calves, ankles and feet. Like a finely-tuned athlete, you need to be regularly engaged in strengthening and conditioning exercises. Focus on building your core strength and improving your balance in addition to increasing calf endurance as well as the strength of your feet and ankles. Remember - at all times work with the supervision of a teacher.
Michelle Dursun
Michelle Dursun is a writer for the Class Section of Dance Australia magazine and holds a Bachelor of Arts (Dance) and a Graduate Diploma (Education) with the Queensland University of Technology.
Dancer featured is Bloch Artiste 2017, Mimi Swinton-Beatty. (Full-time student at Alegria Dance Studio)


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LEC Home : mUSicians
LEC's accompanist
Benjamin Burton is a talented young pianist with a passion for accompanying vocal and instrumental performances. Ben has accompanied a variety of choirs including Sydney Conservatorium Choir, Sydney University Graduate Choir, the International Grammar School choirs and the Arts Unit. In his role as accompanist, Ben was recently invited to tour Queensland with the widely acclaimed Ten Sopranos, and this year will be touring in Western Australia, Central Queensland, and Sydney's Central Coast among other places.
Ben is studying Piano Performance with an accompaniment focus at the Sydney Conservatorium and currently studies with David Miller, David Howie, and has studied with Bernadette Harvey and Stephen Mould. In 2011 he won won the Mollie Neale award for highest marks in accompaniment he has also participated in masterclasses with Carlo Barricello, Sue Newsome, Dr. Michael Halliwell, Maree Ryan and Ole Bohn.
Other work has included an audition and diction pianist for the Sydney Conservatorium, casual tutor/pianist for the Universit of Western Sydney, official accompanist for the Shoalhaven Eisteddfod and NSW Band Association, a performance of Menotti's 'The Telephone' with Jennifer Bonner and Alex Knight. Ben has also been repetiteur for the Conservatorium Opera Company's productions at La Finta Giardiniera (Mozart), Trouble in Tahiti (Bernstein) and La Recontre imprévue Die Pilger von Mekka (Gluck).
© Leichhardt Espresso Chorus 2008 PO Box 1087 Leichhardt NSW 2040 p 0412 333 579
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Studio: Sweetheart VideoCWMH
Director: Dana Vespoli
Approximate Running Time: 02:01:11
Released: 2018
Watch This Movie
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Own This Movie
HD Download AvailableLifetime Streaming $9.95
When businesswoman Cherie DeVille reunites with her former lover Dana, after almost a decade, a lot has changed. Both women have teenage daughters, and both have gone on to have successful careers. But, while both women attempt to pick up where they left off the problems that they struggled with in the past resurface, only now their daughters realize that they have a stake in their mothers' relationship as well. Cherie's daughter Ivy is a wide-eyed bohemian who admires Dana's artwork, while Dana's daughter Isabella resents what she perceives as her mother's feigned free-spritedness, and empathizes with what Cherie has endured. Will Cherie and Dana find a way to stay together, or will their daughters pull them apart forever? Starring Cherie DeVille, Dana Vespoli, Ivy Wolfe and Isabella Nice. Also featuring Eliza Jane and Scarlett Sage.
Categories: Hd Movies -> Downloads Hd Movies -> Streaming Video For Women -> Features Plot Oriented -> Features Lesbian -> Sex Lesbian -> Erotica Oral -> Cunnilingus For Women -> All Girl For Women -> By Women Awards -> 2019 AVN Award Nominees


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My 16 year old is interested in the CIA. So, this spring he will attend the National Youth Leadership Forum in Washington, D. C.. In case you have a child interested in leadership, national security, medicine, law or crime scene investigation I want to let you know about this amazing opportunity. The information below is from the forum's website.
Students can earn one college credit after attending the forum!
Click here to view a mind-boggling sample schedule for the forum!
Until a few months ago I didn't know anything like this existed. Please share with others who may be interested.
National Youth Leadership Forum Provides Insight into U.S. Diplomacy, Intelligence and Defense.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – This spring, outstanding high school students from across the United States will take part in a unique career development program in our nation's capital. During the six-day program, the National Youth Leadership Forum on National Security (NYLF/NS): Exploring American Diplomacy, Intelligence and Defense will introduce students to the challenging careers in national security, intelligence, the diplomatic corps and more.
"Imagine being 16 or 17 years old and the responsibility of securing the United States at home and abroad rests on your shoulders. Through specialized simulations, the National Youth Leadership Forum on National Security strives to put students in the driver's seat of building a strategy that will uphold our national security," said Dr. Marguerite Regan, Dean of Academic Affairs for NYLF. "The combination of interacting with professionals and with other students in this setting ensures that leaders are being developed
so the future of our country will remain very bright."
The curriculum for the Forum on National Security is based on actual world events. Throughout the program, students use critical thinking, leadership and public speaking skills to tackle the complexity of national decision-making as they examine how the U.S. plans for peace and prepares for crisis. They employ a crisis decision-making process similar to that employed by the nation's top policy makers. Students also participate in thought-provoking question and answer sessions with highly respected, internationally recognized civilian policy makers and senior military personnel. In addition, leading institutions open their doors to Forum on National Security students, where they are educated in diplomacy, international affairs and military strategy. In the past, students have explored several government institutions and military installations, including the Pentagon, the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Marine Corps Combat Development Command at Quantico, the Central Intelligence Agency, the U.S. Naval Academy, a variety of embassies and many others.
Founded in 1992, the National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF) is an educational organization established to help prepare extraordinary young people for their professional careers. Forums are offered in 14 cities across the United States in a wide variety of career fields, such as national security, law and medicine. Over 50,000 young people have attended NYLF programs.
For additional information, visit us at www.nylf.org." (click here for NYLF website)
Students can earn one college credit after attending the forum!
The National Youth Leadership Forum on National Security: Exploring American Diplomacy, Intelligence and Defense has partnered with nationally ranked George Mason University to offer one college credit to our attending scholars! George Mason University was featured in U.S. News & World Report's "Best Colleges 2009" ranking as the number one national university on its list of "up-and-coming schools."
Click here to view a mind-boggling sample schedule for the forum!
Until a few months ago I didn't know anything like this existed. Please share with others who may be interested.
Do you know of other opportunities like this? If so, please share it, and other opportunities for high schoolers, in the comment section!


text: Oxford Group is a real estate development firm that has been gratifying customers for over 28 years and has delivered 3 million square feet of successfully developed projects. Our business interests also comprise of business verticals such as Hospitality, Leisure and Aviation, in addition to Real Estate. We believe in an approach that focuses on healthy, inspired living, transparency and providing value in the form of a brand that is customer centric. Innovation and quality are the cornerstones at Oxford. Today, the Oxford Group is developing Pune's largest project with over 1000 acres under development.


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Great news – the book is shipping out to database administrators everywhere! We've heard from DBAs in America and Europe that they've received their copies, and bloggers have been sent copies for review as well.
Borders Books has started stocking the book in local bookstores. You can check availability on the Borders web site using the "Check Store Inventory" box on the right, and reserve your copy without leaving your chair. Barnes & Noble has not started stocking the book yet, but you can check availability on their site too.
We've gotten four 5-star reviews on Amazon including one from James Cornell, who wrote:
"I received the book last week and have been reading it daily. Lots of great information provided in a clear and concise format. This is definitely a book for all levels of SQL DBA's to keep on the desk."
That's great, James!
Bought the book on Amazon? Leave us a review! Other DBAs need help figuring out what books to buy, and your opinion carries a lot of weight. Take a few minutes to write a quick review to tell readers what you liked and didn't like. Thanks for your help in getting the word out there!


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What to Wear?
A pair of comfortable walking shoes is definitely recommended! You also should bear in mind the vagaries of New England weather. You may wish to bring sweaters, sweatshirts, windbreakers and rain gear. Since some portion of each evening will be spent on grass, low heeled shoes are recommended for women. Attendees may want to "dress up" a little more for the Dinner Dance on Saturday.


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Okay, everyone...what's my favorite part of writing? In unison now....It's the people! I love the other writers I've met along the way, many of whom I'm now lucky enough to call friends.
Shauna Granger is among the best. She's super-spunky, sweet, supportive, and she's a great writer, too. She's also one of my critique partners (CPs in the biz) which mean we'll read early drafts of each other's work to provide feedback.
I've had the pleasure of being involved with her new series, Ash & Ruin, since the beginning. These are post-apocalyptic YA books that follow a young girl as she tries to navigate a world plagued by a smallpox-like disease...and a bunch of chilling monsters. Think dementors from Harry Potter meeting the Angel of Death from Raiders of the Lost Ark, and you'll pretty much have the Pestas of Ash & Ruin down.
These books are fun. They're creepy. They're engrossing. I can't think of the West Coast anymore without remembering some of her thoroughly heartbreaking descriptions of LA falling, and Washington State being completely obliterated.
Trust me. If you're into YA post-apocalyptic books, you've gotta check this series out.
Today marks the release date for Time of Ruin, the second book in the planned trilogy, and to celebrate along with Shauna, here's an excerpt from the novel! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
Sitting on the bumper again, my jagged nails scratch at the plastic as I fight the urge to tell Dylan to hurry. Blue looks up at me and whines. I shake my head at him and pet him with the toe of my boot. His eyes are dark blue in the evening light. Blue drops his head and looks at Dylan, his ears perked up into two triangles. I follow his gaze. Dylan's still standing, holding his instruments of destruction, and staring at the raging fire.
Blue pushes to his feet and barks one sharp, loud yelp. My hand drifts over to the rifle by my leg as I let my eyes slide from Dylan's back to search for the source of Blue's panic.
"Dylan." I mean to call to him, but my voice comes out in a strangled whisper.
I swallow as I stand and pull the rifle with me. Across the street, the shadows between the houses are taking shape. They're no longer the snapping, twisting formless shadows from the fire, but something more, something substantial. Dylan lifts the can of fluid and squirts more onto the fire, making it spike and lick the air.
"Dylan," I try again, my voice a little louder. The rifle is in my hands now. The stock is pressed into my shoulder as I aim at the shadows peeling away from the deeper black.
Still Dylan doesn't hear me, or is ignoring me.
Blue barks repeatedly, backing up until he hits the car. I find my voice and scream his name loud enough that it hurts my throat. Finally he looks at me, his face cast in shadows with the light behind him. I can't make out his features, but I can make out the horde of Pestas behind him.
"Run!" I aim the gun as I walk backward around the car.
Instead of listening to me, he looks back to see what has terrified me so. They shuffle forward, lines of them spilling out into the cul-de-sac. Dylan takes two steps backward, nearly tripping over his feet and making me scream again. I rip the rear door open for Blue to get in the car. Slamming the door behind Blue, I lift the rifle and fire a shot, aiming well away from Dylan. The Pestas cringe in unison, as though they are all puppets controlled by the same set of strings.
"Run, dammit!" I scream.
Fab, right?
If you'd like more info, or want to buy the books, go on and use these links below!


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July 3 (Reuters) - Britain's accounting watchdog said on Tuesday it began an investigation into the audit by global auditor KPMG of the financial statements of drinks firm Conviviality Plc, which entered administration in April.
The Financial Reporting Council (FRC), which is probing financial statements for the year ended April 2017, also said it was looking into the preparation and approval of Conviviality's financial statements and other financial information by a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).
Conviviality is Britain's largest franchised off-licence and convenience chain, operating stores under the Bargain Booze and Wine Rack brands. (Reporting by Noor Zainab Hussain in Bengaluru; editing by Carolyn Cohn)


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Cutaway view of 1963 L1 circumlunar spacecraft.
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The second L1 project had the objective of sending two men on a circumlunar flyby trajectory. This L1 was first described in a 23 September 1963 letter setting out the space exploration plan for 1965 to 1975. At this time the Soyuz had a reverse configuration of that used later. From fore to aft, the modules were: the Descent Capsule (SA), Living Module (BO); Equipment Module (AO); Propulsion Module (AO); Rendezvous electronics module (NO) and Docking Unit (SU). As was later the case, the system consisted of the 7K manned spacecraft, the 9K rocket spacecraft, and the 11K tanker. A total of six launches of the 11A511 Soyuz booster would be required. The 9K rocket stage would be put in orbit first. It would be followed by four 11K tankers which would top off the tanks of the rocket block. Then, when all was ready, the 7K manned craft would be put into orbit and dock with the 9K stage. The stage would fire and put the manned spacecraft on a translunar trajectory.
The 7K would be equipped with cinema cameras and scientific sensors to record the lunar surface during the flyby, which would be at from 1,000 to 20,000 km from the lunar surface. Total flight time was 7 to 8 days. The SA would separate from the 7K at 120 to 150 km altitude and re-enter the earth's atmosphere at 11 km/sec. After decelerating to subsonic speed, the SA's parachute would open at 10-18 km altitude. Total mass of the L1 in low earth orbit was 23,000 kg and the flyby mass of the Soyuz alone was 5,100 kg. Craft.Crew Size: 2. Total Mass: 23,000 kg.


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The publishing industry consists of the industry concerned with the printing material in paper form for books, newspapers and magazines and so on. The publishing industry prints materials for newspapers, magazines and books, hence the industry is an integral part to the continued existence of these sectors. Since the invention of the printing press in 1440, the publishing industry has had an impact on the most important aspects in the society. The industry has played a part in the development of the society, and it was one of the greatest inventions discovered by humans. The industry affects social, political, economic and cultural factors in the society. The education system of countries all over the world rely heavily on the publishing industry as it prints the learning materials used by students in different learning institutions. Financial institutions depend on newspapers and magazines to convey certain information to the public. They market and advertise their businesses with the help of the publishing industry. New trends in the society such as fashion and lifestyle depend on the publishing industry to reach the intended group in the society.
Before the invention and development of digital technology and media, the publishing industry had monopolized the publicity of information in the World. Digital and network media refer to the transmission of data and information on a digital network rather than the old network system. Digital and network media include the Internet, television and the radio. Digital and network media brought about competition and rivalry in an industry that had rather become complacent and monopolized by a single party. Monopolization in the society results in the provision of substandard services and goods to the public at exorbitant prices as the consumers usually lack an alternative. The publishing companies used to make millions in profits before the introduction of digital and network media in the society. Thousands of newspapers and magazines used to be sold to customers on a daily basis. Digital and network media have seen a decline in the revenue raked in by companies from the sale of newspapers, magazines and books. Digital and network media are more convenient and flexible compared to the traditional publishing industry. Digital and network media have become a threat to publishing companies, and their existence is bound to be short-lived if they are not innovative and progressive with the changes in the society. Digital media have become an inevitable obstacle to publishing companies, and it has begun dismantling the traditional and conservative publishing industry.
Businesses have found an alternative to advertising their products and services by using digital media that have a wider coverage and is cheaper compared to the old fashioned way of advertising using the printing press. The possibility of the digital media being a threat to publishing companies was not unknown to publishing companies when digital media started to gain popularity in the society in the 90s. Clearly, the strategies were not effective as the digital media rose from a potential threat to the existence of publishing companies to an incipient threat. One of the strategies was to convince the digital media companies to limit the information sharing capabilities of the software and hardware used in the digital media. This proved to be a futile strategy as currently, there is more flow of information on the digital media than there has ever been on the printing press. Another strategy was to inform the public on the concept of copyright and enlighten them on the consequences of copyright infringement. This plan was also not successful as people still use digital media more than ever, and there is rampant infringement of copyrights on the internet. People opposed being educated against what they were attracted to, as they knew the potential that digital media had on revolutionizing information sharing in the society. Today, People are aware of the strict punishment enforced by the law on persons found to have infringed the copyrights of other persons without their permission, but that does not stop them from committing a crime. Infringement of copyrights and other crimes committed with the aid of digital media is a small price to pay for the benefit and convenience associated with digital media. Informing the society on the micropayments that would be associated with the use of digital media was also one of the main strategies of blocking digital media. The micropayments were made public knowledge, but that didn't seem to inhibit the popularity and growth of digital media as people were willing to pay for the convenient services and products offered by the digital media. Those who were incapable of paying for the services found a way to overcome the financial hurdle by illegally acquiring the products and services offered. The current domination of digital media in the world was an unforeseen scenario by the publishing companies, and they had underestimated the influence and impact the digital and network media would have on the society.
There are many advantages that have accrued from the use of digital and network media and resulted in its popularity amongst the public. Digital media have made online publishing easy, convenient and cheap, and this has resulted in increased online publications. Writers and authors can share their work online with ease and simplicity, and the public can access the content at their convenience. Consequently, there has been increased creativity as writers and authors can share and access new ideas with ease on websites and blogs. During the era of traditional publishing, it was expensive and cumbersome for an author to print his work and release it to the general public. Authors and writers, can now get a wider market coverage for their online publications. This is a good illustration of how digital media are dismantling the traditional publishing industry at an alarming rate. People no longer purchase hard copies of books and articles, and they find it more convenient to buy online publications and read them in soft copies. One of the most popular e-book online store is Amazon, where authors get to sell their online publications. Buyers can get a wide range of online publications and purchase online copies conveniently in the comfort of their homes.
Digital media are replacing print industry due to the amount of information disseminated using the digital media and the time taken to disseminate and distribute such information. In the print industry, for publication, to be made readily available for sale to the public, it will take a considerably longer period compared to the time taken to make an online publication. Logging into the internet and basic knowledge on the operation of computers are simple requirements needed for one to make an online publication. There is no major obstacle in online publications as most people are computer literate, and there has been an increase on internet access. This gives the digital media an edge over the publishing industry. The amount of information distributed is also an important factor to take into consideration. It is easier to distribute information on the internet and get a wider coverage as compared to distributing published information. Just by logging on the internet and keying in a few commands on a computer, a person can send information all over the world. Published materials need to take into consideration physical transportation costs and other expenses incurred when making deliveries. Physical delivery is also constrained by certain factors such as weather and geographical locations. Use of the internet as opposed to the print industry is more cost-effective, and this has resulted in the replacement of the print industry by the internet. People opt to share their content online rather than publishing it so as to save on cost and maximize on their profits.
The demise of newspapers and the printing industry is imminent as its model is traditional and unprogressive with the technological change. "Nothing will work. There is no general model for newspapers to replace the one the internet just broke. With the old economics destroyed…" (Shirky, 2009). In the section "Newspapers and thinking the unthinkable", the article talks about the revolution related to the printing press. The first revolution was during the invention of the printing press where there was a change from the era of scribbling down on scrolls to the era of the print industry. The second revolution is the transition from the printing press to the new digital age. In a revolution, the old system gets destroyed and is replaced with a new system. The old system does not live through a revolution and the very suggestion that the print industry will survive this revolution is contradictory to the established concepts of a revolution. It would simply be ludicrous for one to confidently claim that the print industry will survive the revolution and comeback against the internet and the digital media as a whole.
Although the print industry is under threat and is facing possible extinction, it has however remained more resilient than anticipated. Journalism, printing has managed to derail and buy some time while digital media continues to progress and develop. Journalism, printing has managed to stay relevant in the society due to its ability to control the information disseminated to the public. Although the disclosure of full information is advocated, it is vital that sensitive information be kept discrete and released to the public in a strategic manner that will not wreak havoc in the society. The government recognizes newspapers and print journalism industry as an instrument for control of information, hence appreciates the need for the industry in the society.
Although the digital and networked media has posed a threat to the publishing industry, a relationship seems to exist between the two and the two industries appear to supplement each other. Even though the network media is developing and taking over the information industry, magazines and newspapers are still in existence, and they haven't been completely phased out. The only thing that has changed is the reduction in the number of newspapers and magazines sold. Both the digital media and the published media have continued to coexist, and this might go on for a while.
There have been certain changes in the publishing industry, which have been evoked by the rise of the digital era. For example, bookstores are now offering their customers the choice of buying online copies thus they have somewhat integrated the digital age into the old publishing system. Verification of news source may be questionable for both the digital and the traditional publishing industry as the two are constantly competing on who will deliver the news first to the society. This has resulted in the questioning the trustworthiness of the news delivered to the public. Digital media are however more trustworthy as there is little control, and political influence of the news delivered to the society.
The publishing industry remains adamant in this challenging time for the industry. Despite the reduction in the revenue sales due to competition from the digital and network media, there is a possibility that the print industry might come back. Traditional publishing is essential in the society. With the emergence and development of the digital age, the print industry is challenged to improve on its innovation and possibly adopt some of the good aspects of the digital and network media. Although the digital media and network is dismantling the print industry, it is challenging the industry to be created for it to remain in the market and ensure its continued existence.
Balnaves, M., & Donald, S. (2009). Media theories and approaches: A global perspective. Basingstoke [England: Palgrave Macmillan.
Karpf, D. (2012). The MoveOn effect: The unexpected transformation of American political advocacy. New York: Oxford University Press.
McChesney, R. W., & Nichols, J. (2011). The death and life of American journalism: The media revolution that will begin the world again. New York: Nation Books.
Norman, J. (2005). From Gutenberg to the Internet: A Sourcebook on the history of information technology. Novato, Calif.: Historyofscience.com.
Robinson, T. (2011). The evolution of news reporting. Edina, Minn: ABDO Pub. Company.
Rodman, G. (2008). Mass media in a changing world: History, industry, controversy (2nd Ed.). Boston: McGraw Hill.


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New York Times - Orin S. Kerr, a former federal prosecutor and a professor at George Washington University Law School, called it "an important case" that was unusual in the way it set a broad rule without giving deference to the use of force by the police. "This decision is trying to create rules to govern cops and is trying to limit the use of Tasering," he said. "It has a very big real-world impact." ... [LINK]
"...a very big real-world impact..."
Gee, that isn't exactly what the brain-trust at Taser International implied... [LINK]
Who are YOU going to trust? The slick-talking stungun salesmen that will happily put you in legal jeopardy to sell one more taser cartridge, or a law professor?
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Friday, January 1, 2010
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text: 10. Mainz International Colloquium on Ancient Hebrew (MICAH) Mainz, November, 28th – 30th, 2011 Invitation and Call for Papers (1st circular) The 10th Mainz International Colloquium on Ancient Hebrew (10. MICAH) will take place at Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz (Germany), from Friday, 28th to Sunday 30th November, 2011. You are invited to give a lecture, either a short paper (20 min plus 5 discussion) or a full lecture (45 min plus 10 discussion), as you please. Topics cover the grammar and linguistics of Ancient and Classical Hebrew (Epigraphic and Biblical Hebrew, Qumran and related Hebrew, and Ben Sira), as well as studies of adjacent languages and epigraphy, for instance Ugaritic, Phoenician-Punic, Old and Imperial Aramaic, Moabite and Edomite. Also welcome are topics on general epigraphy, paleography, and general linguistics in connection with these languages. Depending on submitted papers, topics will be arranged into special sessions, within the following areas: Biblical Hebrew Postbiblical Hebrew Ugaritic Canaanite Phoenician-Punic Aramaic Transjordan Lexicography & Semantics Epigraphy & Palaeography General topics of Northwest Semitic paleography. Conference languages are German, English, and French. As we wish to avoid parallel sessions, sessions will be deemed closed when the optimal number of proposed papers for each are accepted. For this reason, if you are considering participation, the earlier you send your proposal the better. Postgraduates, or PhD. doctorate students are explicitly invited to present their projects where they might benefit from collegial discussions. Any one applying in this category, please indicate clearly your institution and supervisor. For participation, we request a fee of 40 Euro, which is due on site. For those who present a paper, participation is free. Active students can request the suspension of fees and it might be granted depending on the availability of funds. Please send paper proposals to the undersigned (lehmann at uni-mainz.de) or to MICAH at uni-mainz.de and indicate the topic (preliminary or working title) and the preferred length of presentation. While no formal pre-registration form is needed, for planning purposes, it is nevertheless important that we receive soon an email declaration of intent, at the above address. We are not organizing travel or housing arrangements, but will gladly inform you on available lodging near the University. For all questions and concern please contact: Dr. Reinhard G. Lehmann Academic Director / Ancient Hebrew and NWS Languages Research Unit on Ancient Hebrew and Epigraphy Faculty of Protestant Theology Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz Tel. +49-6131-39-23284 (office) Phone and fax +49-6132-799873 Email: lehmann at uni-mainz.de Further information will also be available soon at http://www.hebraistik.uni-mainz.de/144.php In co-operation with: Dr. Anna Zernecke (University of Mainz) Dr. Johannes F. Diehl (University of Frankfurt) We look forward to hosting you in Mainz next year.


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Gearing up for E3: Schedule and Trailers
So I decided to devote at least the next two days to watching E3 Press Conferences and viewing game trailers. Fortunately for you, I'll be summing up everything here on the site and posting the trailers I catch, as well as any exciting news that comes out of E3.
In preparing to do this, I thought I'd post a schedule of the big events that I'll be attempting to cover:
Monday, June 6
- Microsoft Press Conference: 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. PDT
- EA Press Conference: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. PDT
- Ubisoft Press Conference: 2:30 p.m. – 3:45 p.m. PDT
- Sony Press Conference: 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. PDT
Tuesday, June 7
- Nintendo Press Conference: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. PDT
I will warn you in advance that my Nintento coverage will be slightly late, as I'll be watching the press conference after I've seen X-Men: First Class, my Tuesday movie of the week (there will be a review on Wednesday). But being as I don't own anything Nintendo, it's probably the conference I'm least excited about.
There will also be game trailers and news posted as it comes in and I'll be scouring the web for any and all E3 coverage and bring it to you right here on FanGirlConfessions.com.
And now that it's the day before E3, let's have a look at some trailers that have been released coming out of this year's E3. These are some of the games I am personally excited about.
[tubepress mode="playlist" playlistValue="6F5636D76683D17D"]


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For those who would rather a complete collection is available before they purchase it, may I introduce The Ties That Bind Trilogy Omnibus Collection. It will be available in e-book only on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iBookstore, Kobo and Smashwords.
Barnes & Noble
All Romance
iBookstore (Processing)
Kobo (Processing)
In case you didn't know, there is an e-book sale going on right now and yes, I am involved!
For a limited time, Undertow is on sale at Amazon as part of the Valentine's Day E-book Sale!
I am working diligently on Only Love and that novel should be out by the end of this month or the beginning of March. I have already placed it on Goodreads so please add a copy of Only Love to you Goodreads TBR list HERE if you are interested in following The Atonement Series.
Until next time, have a fabulous week and happy reading!!!


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Love your dog so much and don't know how to show it?
That's easy, come down to Mutts & Butts. Each of our aisles has plenty to offer for your furry friend. Just take a stroll down our extensive toy aisle with a full line of Kong, Nylabone, JW, Spot Skineez, Pennplax, Tuffies, Multipet, and so many more. It's impossible to walk away empty handed!
Or maybe your dog gets enough play, but not enough rest? It's never the wrong time for a brand new dog bed. We have them all—bolster, circular, sofa, crate mats, even orthopedic. Every dog deserves a nice place to rest their head.
Mutts & Butts also has an unbelievable selection of leashes, collars, and harnesses from companies such as Coastal, including their fabulous designs Splash of Color, Laser Brite and Fashion Pet, Lupine, and Wilson. And every collar needs a shiny, new identification tag. So, allow us to make one up for you—it only takes 5 minutes!
Don't believe us? Bring 'em on in for a free treat and take a look. We promise you won't be disappointed.


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December 06, 2018 05:26 PM
Police are searching for an online predator preying on Penn Yan students.
Police say someone is blackmailing students for nude photos and so far, seven girls have been targeted.
Police are now trying to trace the social media account to find the person responsible.
The Penn Yan Central School District and local families are now on alert after discovering students have been victimized.
"It's kind of scary that there are people like this out there that have the ability to reach out and get into your kids' lives," said Nate Baker, parent.
While Baker's child wasn't one of the victims, he says it's alarming to hear this is happening.
"To learn that we don't know the name of the person behind this, it's kind of scary," added Baker.
The Penn Yan police chief told News10NBC that the suspect could be local because all seven victims are from the Penn Yan Central School District, specifically the middle and high school.
The youngest victim is just 13 years old.
"...tried to blackmail them into sending nude photographs of themselves. In some instances, they claimed they already had photos that they would post online if they didn't send them nude photographs," said Chief Thomas Dunham.
Chief Dunham says the predator targeted the victims on Instagram, blackmailing them for lewd photos and out of fear, some students gave in.
"We do believe there are some people who did send nude photos out to the individual and in cases like this, the people keep asking for more and keep blackmailing the person. We are happy people came forward and contacted the school to let them know what was going on," Chief Dunham added.
Police urge anyone else that may have fallen victim to contact authorities.
There is another incident at the Dundee Central School District, but the chief says it is unrelated to this crime.
Updated: December 06, 2018 05:26 PM
Created: December 06, 2018 05:14 PM
Copyright 2018 - WHEC-TV, LLC A Hubbard Broadcasting Company
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text: Book Now Details Single Room Double Room Triple Room Availability: In stock $140.00 Quick Overview The Memories Varadero Beach Resort offers you the value of a 5-star resort for the price of a four-star. Features like the longest water slide of Varadero and its closeness to La Habana make this the perfect place for those seeking action and adventure. This is your opportunity to discover the charms of Cuba, of its people and beaches with crystalline waters and to create and share unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime with us... Memories Varadero Beach Resort. 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This luxurious 4 star hotel offers incredible value with its impressive all inclusive services and deluxe amenities. Located on one of the most beautiful beaches in Varadero, Memories Varadero is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway or a fun family vacation. Admire the spectacular fusion of charming colonial architecture and Caribbean flair at this stunning beach resort. Sparkling pools reflect the clear blue skies and turquoise Caribbean waters, and complement the lush gardens and tropical foliage that envelop the resort. The spacious guestrooms and suites feature deluxe amenities, rich wood furnishings, and warm and tropical colours that harmonize perfectly with the natural surroundings. Rooms and suites are also offered in a variety of categories to match individual tastes and needs, ensuring the perfect room for families of any size. Memories Varadero restaurants offer a cornucopia of delights to please all palates. Choose from an extensive collection of global cuisines at the 8 à la carte restaurants, including Italian, Japanese, and Mexican, or savour a selection of your favourite comfort foods at the international buffet or 2 snack bars. Offering a different restaurant for each night of the week, you are sure to find the perfect meal. With a wide array of exciting activities and entertainment, Memories Varadero ensures fun for all ages. Participate in daily organized activities, experience a variety of land and water sports, lounge by one of the dazzling pools, or bask under a golden sun on the pristine white sand beach. Whether you want to fill your days with non-stop fun and excitement, experience the vibrant Varadero nightlife, or simply idle your days away while relaxing on the beach or by the pool, Memories Varadero lets you do it all! Escape to one of the finest Varadero resorts with a stay at the Memories Varadero Beach Resort and experience the vacation of a lifetime. At Memories Resorts, our goal is to help you create the best vacation memories you'll ever have. We trust that once you visit us, your family will want to return here time and time again. Rooms Memories Varadero Beach Resort offers deluxe Cuba accommodations in 1035 guestrooms, including a variety of categories to suit all budgets and tastes. Rooms are well appointed and elegantly furnished with rich wood furnishing, deluxe amenities, and a charming fusion of traditional colonial style and tropical Caribbean flair. Enjoy the large and spacious rooms and suites and the breathtaking views from the balcony or terrace for the ultimate in comfort and relaxation. All Accommodations Include: Bathroom with Bathtub & Shower Balcony or Terrace Air Conditioning Satellite TV CD Player Mini-bar (stocked daily) Iron/Ironing Board Hairdryer In Room Safe ($) 220v adapter/transformer required Hotel Facilities 1035 Rooms 4 Pools (including kids' pool) Baby Club (2-4 yrs) Kids Club (5-12 yrs) Kids' play area Conference facilities ($) Internet café ($) Theatre 3 Tennis courts Jacuzzi Beauty salon ($) Billiards Table tennis Shops ($) Medical service ($) Laundry services ($) Multi-purpose court Fitness facilities RESTAURANTS "La Ceiba" International BuffetBreakfast, lunch and dinner service"Fontana di Trevi" Italian restaurant (air conditioning) - Dinner service"Mediterráneo" Seafood restaurant - Dinner service"Tepanyaki" Japanese restaurant (air conditioning) - Dinner service"Gourmet" French restaurant (air conditioning) - Dinner service"Mexicano" Mexican restaurant - Dinner service"Playa Puerto Carenas" Mediterranean restaurant - Breakfast and lunch service"El Criollo" Creole restaurant (air conditioning) - Dinner service BARS "El Cabildo" Lobby bar (open 24 hrs)Selection of national and international drinks includedPremium beverages offered at an additional cost"Las Cascadas" Snack barSelection of national and international drinks included"Rio Almendares" Snack bar (open 24 hrs)Selection of national and international drinks included"Las Cascadas" Swimming pool barSelection of national and international drinks included"Muelle de Luz" Swimming pool barSelection of national and international drinks included"El Nacional" Bar (air conditioned)Selection of national and international drinks included"Tacón" Theatre barSelection of national and international drinks included"Puerto Carenas" Beach barSelection of national and international drinks included Reserve date You Selected From: To: Check in: 4:00pm Check out: 12:00pm Supplements: Diamond Club +$45.00 *Compulsory supplement for stays shorter than 2 nights: -- Please Select --1 night +$21.002 or more nights 1- Surname / Name(s): * 2- Surname / Name(s): * 3- Surname / Name(s): * e-mail: * Remarks: Fields marked with * are mandatory. 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Today was the Georgia Race for Autism at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds. I participated in the 5k run, which was only the third 5k of my life. My time was far from stellar and by most standards is horrifically slow (38:43)… but actually running the whole race, hills included, was fantastic.
The only goals I had etched in stone: 1) run the entire race; and 2) finish under 40 minutes. Check check.
I was dropping teeny little girls and little old ladies like flies on the hills, and one guy running the 10k finished at the same time I did – but that's just fine. Today, I woke up, laced up and passed through the finish line without crawling. And that's just good enough for me.


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TEXAS ROSE FESTIVAL. The Texas Rose Festival is held each year at Tyler, Smith County, sometimes called the Rose Capital of America. The first festival, organized by the women of the Tyler Garden Club, the Chamber of Commerce, and local rose growers, was held in October 1933. Volunteers raised $1,500 to cover expenses, and several thousand people from fifteen states attended. Margaret Copland of Tyler was crowned first Rose Queen. The celebration, originally known as the East Texas Rose Festival, was renamed during the Texas Centennial in 1936. The festival was suspended during World War II but has been held annually since. Events include a Rose Show, the Coronation of the Rose Queen, and a colorful parade of floats and bands. In 1989 an estimated 100,000 people attended the celebration, which featured thirteen floats and a budget of $250,000. See also ROSE INDUSTRY.
BIBLIOGRAPHY:Henry M. Bell, "The Texas Rose Festival Celebrates Fifty-Six Years of Tradition," Tyler Today, Fall 1989. Frank Bronaugh, Fifty Years: Texas Rose Festival Association, 1933–1983 (Tyler: Texas Rose Festival Association, 1984?).
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Iraqi forces aren't quite ready to take charge
AMARA, Iraq — It wasn't yet dawn, and the Iraqi army unit was already behind schedule. It was about to launch a major operation against another cluster of towns overrun by Shiite Muslim militiamen, and this time American forces would remain at the rear of the convoy, behind their Iraqi counterparts.
The troops mustered in darkness, relying for light on the headlamps of Iraqi Humvees, refurbished U.S. vehicles now crudely painted over with the red, white and black Iraqi flag. Some Iraqi soldiers weren't wearing armor. Fewer were wearing helmets. The brigade commander was riding in an unarmored pickup. His handgun was in its holster; his walking cane by his seat.
The 40-vehicle convoy was about to leave the base when the commander, Brig. Gen. Nabil Yassin Azadi, ordered everyone to stop. "Where is the map? How could you forget the map?" he screamed at his subordinates.
By the time they arrived at their destination, the city of Majir al Kabir, the sun led them in, and the militiamen whom they'd hoped to surprise had left, disappeared into the nearby marshes or perhaps across the border into Iran.
Flush with confidence after a string of victories against the Mahdi Army militia of radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al Sadr, the Iraqi army is in control of Basra, Iraq's second largest city, and Amara province, a one-time Sadrist stronghold. Its forces also are in Sadr City, the massive Shiite slum in Baghdad that's home to as many people as Chicago. Troops are headed now to restive Diyala province.
Although the U.S. military played a big role in some of the battles, the Iraqi army is unabashedly cocky.
"The power nowadays is with the security forces," said Azadi, the commander of the 38th Brigade, 10th Iraqi Army Division. "As long as we are here, they will not come back."
Yet a McClatchy reporter embedded with this Iraqi unit for four days as it searched for weapons throughout the province — one of the first Americans ever allowed to embed on a post-Basra Iraqi operation — had a glimpse of another reality. Iraqi troops are confident as never before. But just below the surface, they question whether their victories of the last few months are real or the result of a Mahdi Army decision to walk away to fight another day. Publicly, they're boastful; privately they wonder whether they're really in charge.
As they dashed about the province over those four days, Azadi's troops fired no shots and uncovered few weapons, despite digging up patios with picks and shovels in vain response to a tip. They even used a bulldozer to move mounds of earth that a tipster swore were hiding weapons.
The troops said they kept going because they thought that the militias wouldn't return as long as they were conducting raids. And if they did their jobs well, the American forces eventually would leave, too.
Amara province is lined with closed government-run sugar factories and brickworks, memorials to the businesses that once sustained this area, like a dried-up American industrial town. Men joined the militia, and then the security forces, out of a desperate need for income.
Col. Mohammed Hassan, 39, is the commander of the 3rd Battalion, 38th Brigade, a mobile unit that travels to hot spots. He's a Shiite and a 20-year veteran of Saddam Hussein's army, a rarity. With each tip, he burst into action, hoping to turn up something big.
But he and his men never did. The five-minute searches were usually perfunctory. Even the raid on the supposed big fish — a local policeman and alleged Mahdi Army militiaman on the side thought to have returned from Iran — turned up nothing.
Many throughout Iraq viewed these operations mainly as political posturing by Prime Minister Nouri al Maliki in the run-up to this fall's scheduled provincial elections. Amara is dominated by Sadrists, the followers of Maliki's main rival. Even the governor is a Sadrist; he's been under virtual house arrest since the army arrived last month.
Azadi declared himself and Maj. Gen. Habib Talib Abbas, the commander of the 10th Iraqi Division, the de facto leaders of the province until new elections, making them effectively local warlords.
"The governor has no authority," he said, neglecting to mention that the governor was elected.
Azadi's strategy has been to continue launching offensives in the province to keep the roughly 3,000 militiamen from controlling it again. Many of them fled or hid after Sadr ordered his forces not to confront the Iraqi army.
After they cleared every neighborhood, Azadi said, his troops would move into outposts, just as the Americans did after their forces cleared Baghdad's neighborhoods.
So the raids continued.
At a secret location, a sedan pulled up and Hassan met his tipster, who's always been reliable. The big fish — the policeman — was back, he assured him.
About a dozen officers stormed the house, and an older woman started yelling repeatedly: "Look at us. We have nothing. You see our house; we have nothing. I swear to God we have nothing."
She said the man they were searching for was working at the police station. But Hassan said that he hadn't been showing up to work.
"Maybe he fled at dawn. Maybe somebody told him the Iraqi troops are coming," he told McClatchy, adding: "If you had been here three days ago, you would have seen more. We found a huge weapons cache."
The soldiers dug in the yard, looking for weapons. They searched the freshly moved dirt first and then other spots, but found nothing.
A U.S. Army battalion moved here at the start of the operation to monitor the Iraqi soldiers — to remind them that they must be honest and professional — usually from the perimeter. The Americans also provide air support. Throughout the operation, U.S. soldiers took the names of those arrested, tracked the weapons confiscated and reported their observations to their commanders.
"I am sure they are monitoring everything I do. If they see me working hard, it means that I am loyal," Hassan said.
Not much more was found on Day Two. Hassan was searching for the home of a Mahdi Army suspect named Mohanned Jassim, but neither local police nor young boys hanging out nearby would tell him which house to raid.
"You see, they won't help us. They are all Mahdi Army," Hassan said, exasperated.
His soldiers suddenly sprinted to the house of Jassim's brother and grabbed him by the neck, their professionalism fading fast.
"Where is your brother?"
The younger Jassim didn't respond. As soon as he put on his pants, they arrested him. Hassan's soldiers started digging for weapons in the family's yard. They retrieved a few magazines and a poster of Sadr. It was the best find of the day.
Hassan didn't know it when the convoy headed out, but Day Three was the final one of the operation. He traveled to Adil, one of the most desolate communities in the struggling province. The men in the small town next to the marshes work as farmers. The houses are barren and made of mud, cattle and chickens wander just outside front doors and the smell of manure permeates the sweltering streets.
The soldiers were too embarrassed to scrutinize the residents' meager belongings, and they spent only a couple of minutes at each house raid. No one was arrested.
Afterward, Lt. Gen. Ali Ghaidan, the Iraqi army's ground forces commander, summoned Hassan and Azadi. Maliki had called to complain that all these searches weren't producing results.
"I never want to get a call like that again," the general told them. "This town is full of Mahdi Army and weapons, and you are telling me you found no weapons or targets? . . . I don't believe it."
Azadi, the unofficial warlord, said that two women suspected of stashing Mahdi Army victims in their homes had turned themselves in but couldn't be arrested under the amnesty program.
"Arrest them!" Ghaidan demanded.
Hassan and Azadi left sheepishly and arrested the women.
As the mother and daughter sat in a sedan, their uncle pleaded with the troops, saying that the women's enemies were accusing them falsely. An Iraqi captain summoned McClatchy reporters and told them not to photograph the women because, he said, "I believe they are innocent."
Hassan insisted that the women "are responsible for a lot of deaths."
Then another call came in.
The commanders ordered the women released. A controversial arrest could make the Sadrists political martyrs.
Azadi's bravado all but disappeared, replaced with resignation. One leader, who asked not to be identified, fearing retribution for speaking about politics, simply said: "It's useless. This is a political game. What did we get? Raids and searches. They are not here."
By nightfall, Azadi called off the operation. The next day, Hassan slept in until sunrise, got a haircut and took his first day off in a month. He headed home to the holy Shiite city of Karbala to see his wife, two sons and daughter. He'd return three days later to take part in the next operation.
(McClatchy special correspondent Hussein Kadhim contributed to this article.)


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Who We Are
Frilly's Designs * Handmade by 3 Little B's * Ladybugs & Daisychains * LiL Moo & Mee
Monday, August 1, 2011
"Dolly" says Goodbye Perth and Hello Melbourne!
After a whirlwind tour of Northampton, WA - "Dolly" arrived back to Perth and had a few days to rest up in her new travelling/sleeping bag before starting the next stage of her journey!
Surviving the Midnight Horror flight from Perth, "Dolly" travelled out to Rathdowne Fabrics & Remnants bright and early by tram and got to meet the gorgeous Amanda from Appleberry Kids too!
"Dolly" spent her final hours with me trying very hard to nap and getting excited about all the fun that was coming up with Gill from Frilly's Designs, Jane from Lil Pip and many other crafty ladies!
Little Sew & Sews
After weeks of discussions about "Dolly" being given a name, The Sewing Sisterhood are pleased to announce that this lovely doll is now officially named Martha :)
Posted by The Sewing Sisterhood at 12:51 PM
Labels: Martha's Journey
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SR1 is a Michigan based company that guarantees affordable and dependable quality that you can trust. As a family owned and operated business, we will treat your patronage with the utmost respect by providing exceptional customer service with timely and direct access to the owner. Our commitment to deliver professional, long-lasting workmanship is proven by providing only quality materials and experienced tradesmen. We will strive to give you the most practical and thorough consultation. We shall maintain an active consideration for the environment by practicing green-friendly initiatives. Using these principles, we will not stray from our mission statement to offer the most reliable and professional service to our clients.
Copyright 2013 by SR1 Inc.
Website by Beverly


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Tuesday, July 14, 2015
The State of the Astros, All-Star Break Edition: Part 1
Yet that's where the Astros are. And while the preceding paragraph is astounding given the last four years, I can't help but feel like the Astros haven't screwed something up over the course of the last month.
After the games played on May 1 the Astros had a 5.0-game lead; on June 1 the lead was 4.0 games; on July 1 their lead was 5.0 games. From July 4 to the Break, a span of nine games, the Astros lost 5.5 games to the Angels.
Since May 1 the Astros have the 10th-best record in the American League while the Angels sit a half-game back of the Twins for the best AL record since May 1. Since June 1, the Astros - at 17-22 (.436) - are ever so slightly better than the Rangers (.432) for the worst record in the AL. Now, given that we're talking about five weeks of baseball from June 1 - ASG, that's a fairly small sample size and we can even find a silver lining in that the Astros endured two significant losing streaks in that span.
But the fact is, the Astros' incredible April is propping up this season, and it's going to take more than just Johnny Cueto (allegedly) to get this team post-season ready, because another month of what we've seen in the last month, and we can put those October dreams to bed...at least until next spring.
Some of the Astros' problems cannot be avoided. Edinson F***ing Volquez breaking George Springer's hand and the resulting 1-6 record, for instance. Volquez should be suspended by Rob Manfred for conduct detrimental to the game of baseball. I'm mostly joking there. Jed Lowrie's injury, is another example, though Jed Lowrie getting injured on a freak play isn't exactly a freak occurrence for Jed Lowrie.
But there are some places where the Astros can and should improve.
Astros hitting, by month:
April: .238/.316/.411 - .727 OPS
May: .236/.296/.421 - .717 OPS
June: .246/.313/.442 - .755 OPS
July: .236/.295/.353 - .648 OPS
The batting average has remained consistent, the OBP relatively consistent (though on-again/off-again from month-to-month), but the power evaporated in July. The last time the Astros won - July 6 at Cleveland - they had five extra-base hits: three doubles and two home runs. In the six games that followed heading into the Break, the Astros had seven extra-base hits: three doubles and four home runs. For an offense built on power, when the power goes out, the offense stops, and it doesn't matter what the pitching staff does if the offense is averaging 1.0 runs per game.
Granted, you can read that and say, "Yesssss but every team is going to go through slumps. The Astros have proven this season that they can hit," and you would be correct. And when you use calendar months as end points, the numbers tend to get arbitrary. So if we zoom out to include the 40 games from June 1 - July 12, the offense is hitting .243/.308/.417. Interestingly enough, American League batters are hitting .255/.314/.407 in the same time span, meaning that the Astros have been perfectly average in their last 40 games and their record reflects it.
Let's try to do this a little bit better, shall we? I think you can divide the 2015 season into three distinct eras: Opening Day - May 3, May 4 - June 7, and June 8 - July 12. Why?
The Opening Day - May 3 Astros went 18-7, and included the 10-game winning streak. This also marks the first Era of Astros baseball in many moons where people started to take the Astros seriously, if not spitefully. This 1st Era team hit .247/.324/.446 whereas the AL as a whole (and yes, this includes the Astros) hit .251/.319/.397 - the Astros outslugging the rest of the AL by over 50 points.
The May 4 - June 7 (2nd Era) Astros weathered the Marwin/Villar storm, starting the home sweep at the hands of the Rangers until the promotion of Carlos Correa and his subsequent debut on June 8. These 2nd Era Astros went 16-17 and hit .226/.287/.388 while the AL as a whole hit .250/.310/.396.
The June 8 - Present (3rd Era) Astros saw the promotions of Correa, McCullers, and Velasquez and have just been a mixed bag/all-or-nothing team. They're 15-18 with a .246/.311/.422 slash line as an offense. Four times in this Era did the Astros put up 10+ runs - twice in three days against Seattle. But they also lost five 1-run games - two of those in the same series against the Angels, the team whom the Astros sit a half-game behind. In their last nine games (1-8) the Astros have been outscored 34-21. Thirteen runs over nine games is not a wide margin.
It is no secret that Chris Carter is not hitting well. Nor is Jon Singleton. At 1B this season, the Astros rank 13th in the AL in WAR, only getting more production than two teams - the Rays and Red Sox, against whom the Astros just went 1-5 in the last ten days. At DH, the Astros rank 14th in the AL in WAR, only better than the A's. That's not a lot of designated hits for the guys designated to only hit.
There are 135 players in Major League Baseball with at least 300 PAs in 2015. At .185, Chris Carter's batting average ranks 135th. Incidentally, Luis Valbuena's .199 ranks 133rd. Interestingly enough, FanGraphs still gives Chris Carter a 0.1 WAR, and Valbuena a 0.6 WAR...better than Evan Gattis' -0.3 WAR. Just for argument's sake of giving Chris Carter more time:
2014 Pre-All Star Break Chris Carter: .205/.281/.465, .237 BABIP, 18 HR, 99K:24BB
2015 Pre-All Star Break Chris Carter: .185/.300/.380, .236 BABIP, 15 HR, 115K:44BB
And then Carter blew up for an .860 OPS in the 2nd Half of 2014.
Jon Singleton has only taken 29 plate appearances this season, but has more walks (4) than hits (3). And it's probably worth noting that in 391 career PAs (which is still only a shade over a half-season's worth), Singleton has put up a career .164/.281/.322 slash line with 146 strikeouts.
There are holes in the offense, but I don't know how you resolve all of them. Call me crazy, but I do not see Jed Lowrie resuming his .999 OPS when he returns from his thumb injury...at some point in the next month. But I'm guessing Lowrie will get some time at 1B while Singleton goes back to Fresno to...do what, exactly? Kill Triple-A pitching - like he always does - and not look terrible at the plate in the Majors - like he has done for almost 400 PAs.
The only rumors we have heard (and by this I mean, "what we see on Twitter and various media outlets") have to do with starting pitching, and that's a conversation to be had tomorrow. So guess what? The Astros are a weird, complicated, nerve-wracking team, and this is shaping up to be a weird, complicated, nerve-wracking season.
8 comments:
- Kim Martin said...
Gotta give it to you, boy. Good breakdown. Crazy season.
- July 14, 2015 at 10:09 PM
- Lucas Levin said...
When Springer is not in the game it makes a huge difference. I think he was just about to start heating up and selling his power to before the injury. We need a solid contact hitter to add to the team. We should sell now on Carter and get something for him and trade Singleton. Move Ghattis to first base. Bring up Tony Kemp.
- July 15, 2015 at 10:14 AM
- Lucas Levin said...
I don't think this team is going to make it far in the postseason or even make it without some additions and subtractions. I think it would be better to plan for next year and the years coming and stay the course. To buy on Cueto now would be just to lose some good prospects.
- July 15, 2015 at 10:16 AM
- JoeinAlaska said...
I agree with Lucas. Pass on Cueto and keep the prospects. Next year we'll be better situated to compete. Maybe we should train Tony Kemp to play first base?
- July 15, 2015 at 10:25 AM
While we're bagging on 1st base, let's not forget about the whopping .212 hitting catcher and the "Dave Kingman" wannabe at 3rd base.
Jason Castro appears to be getting worse everyday. And poor Luis Valbuena is a slump waiting to happen.
Overall, this team has too many wholes in the linuep to overcome this year. In addition to a front-line starter, they need a more stable bat at one of the corners and/or catcher; someone that can actually make contact consistently - score a runner from 3rd or at the very least, not strikeout in critical situations.
The Astros are having a solid year; this is well beyond expectations. But I just don't see a legit shot at a deep playoff run this year. But then again, as a lifelong 'Stros fan, I hope I'm wrong.
- July 15, 2015 at 2:45 PM
- Chaz R said...
I don't think it's a good idea to throw in the towel on this season. They can compete and should press forward and go for it.
Look, the offense is slumping right now. That's going to happen, especially with the Astros all or nothing offense. They certainly need to address the 3B and 1B issues long term, and with Springer hurt the OF hitting is also thin. Lowrie's return will help, and I suspect the slump won't last. But, I still think the biggest deficiency is the rotation. We really do need a veteran sure thing to go with Keuchel. We're going to need to go after one in the upcoming offseason anyway, let's get him now and use him now. I think it's Cueto. We will have to give up something significant. I like the way this guy thinks:
- July 15, 2015 at 3:38 PM
- Chris Cupp said...
but the great thing about being over .500, being in first place or being very close to first place, you can make trades or waiver claims and get better.
and teams don't trade players if the expected value of what a "rental" can bring to a team is less than the expected value of what they give up. in my opinion, vary rarely do the players that a team allows to be traded for a superstar go on to be superstars themselves.
carlos correa (or type player) would only get traded for a player of similar potential production if there is a gaping need and if there's a modest replacement.
- July 15, 2015 at 3:43 PM
- Lucas Levin said...
I'm not saying we should throw in the towel. What I am saying is we need to be wise. We can have a contending team for quite a long time. Baseball has many ups and downs and there is an aspect of luck that gets you to the end. I think we have too many pieces that need solving. If we can find some pieces that will contribute for the long haul or for more than just half a season then I think we should consider it. Just don't go shopping for Cole Hamels.
- July 15, 2015 at 4:29 PM


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Check out the interview with the band here: "Some Hear Explosions is sexy alterna-rock." - Interview
Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at email@example.com.
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The whole Northern Grid collapsed yesterday for over six hours. From Rashtrapati Bhavan to small villages in the nine states of North India, there was no power during that time. Restoration has been slow. Hospitals, hotels, schools, colleges or homes, there was a blackout everywhere.
The last time the Northern Grid had collapsed was in early 2001, on a cold day of the season. Then, I was the chairman of the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), created in 1998. I called an emergency hearing (being in a quasi judicial position, I held hearings along with my colleagues on the petitions filed before us).
This particular occasion was of a suo motu hearing that we had called on our own, without a petition being filed. All important suppliers of power, important consumers, including the state electricity boards, the national inter-state transmission company and state transmission entities had to attend it.
What emerged was that the transmission lines in Uttar Pradesh had been maintained poorly and the initial collapse had taken place there. Since demand in the North was low because of winters, it would have been sensible to reduce the quantity of power sent on to the transmission lines in the Northern Grid. This would have ensured there wasn't any overload in relation with demand, which caused the frequency to rise to dangerous levels and the grid to fail.
NTPC, as the principal generator supplying the northern states, did not cut generation. PowerGrid, the inter-state transmission utility that controlled the state load dispatch centres and had moment-to-moment information on demand and supply of power, was not alert enough to take corrective action.
The central government, which owned NTPC and had determined its tariffs and incentives, gave it an incentive to produce at more than its plant load factor of 64 per cent. This was because the imperative in those years (as it is now) was to generate as much electricity as possible. But NTPC was already producing at 80 per cent plant load factor (PLF) and was earning incentives without any special effort. Any backing down of generation by NTPC would have meant serious loss of earnings. So, it kept pumping electricity on to the grid, even as demand was low. This led to the frequency soaring and the grid's collapse.
CERC warned all concerned that since this was the first such incident before it, it would not exercise penal powers. However, it made it clear that any repetition would lead to the severest penalties in its power.
We did two more things. We changed the incentives for more generation by raising the starting point to 80 per cent PLF (to be reviewed periodically). We soon came out with an availability-based tariff order. So, we replaced PLF with availability as a determinant. This meant a plant was to be available to the extent it declared (if it was not, there would be penalties). We called for day-ahead forecasts at 15-minute intervals from all important generators and users/distributors with some flexibility to change forecasts two hours in advance. If anyone using the grid went above or below the forecasts to an extent that affected the frequency (moved away from a target laid down), there would be severe financial penalties.
The proof of the pudding is in the eating. The grid remained stable for over a decade. Frequency on all Grids stabilised at much more reasonable levels than before. Since then, CERC has further raised the penalty for missing forecasts. Power trading is in much vogue now. Additional transmission lines have turned the country into almost a national grid. The new lines for the South, currently under way, will make it fully national in a few months. So, like in any market, power can flow from areas of surplus (even for a limited time) to those that are deficient. The market would determine the price for this exchange.
However, these do not resolve the fundamental problems — government ownership of almost 90 per cent of the country's electricity assets, free or cheap power to large voter groups, free power for agriculture, non-metering of many who are supplied and theft of electricity that takes place in collusion with electricity board employees and goes unpunished. Overstaffing and indiscipline are all consequences of government ownership.
What is worse is that the electricity companies are headed by itinerant Indian Administrative Services (IAS) officers with no career commitment to the power sector. And, these huge companies are run like government departments. We must have professional management and authority delegated to the lowest organisational levels. The best answer is to privatise all electricity assets.
At the same time, we must make state regulatory commissions truly independent. At present, almost all are headed by elderly retired bureaucrats (usually from IAS), and members are retired government servants. We need these commissions to be independent of state governments and headed by people who exercise just the powers the law gives them. The central regulator has fortunately been allowed such a freedom.
Also, the regulator must have much stronger penal powers. When a grid collapses or there are frequent violations of forecasts, the CEO of the company should be made personally liable. If this continues, he might even be jailed. The regulator's penal powers on Monday are pathetically small and are imposed only on companies, and not on individuals.
Electricity is too serious a business to be left to politicians or procedure-oriented bureaucrats, who are not held individually accountable for anything.
(The writer is the first Chairman of the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission)


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