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Y'all we made it. I don't know how. I'm still taking it all in, but we managed to make it out of 2014 with most of our wits about us. The wits that we lost, we're probably better off without them. Oh, hey, yeah -- I'm writing for you to read this. I know, it's been a while and I've been all productive outside of my video game writing, but we can catch up later.
Right now I'm just going through my tweets, cellphone photos and friends writings and reminding myself of the beautiful mess that was 2014.
So without further ado, let's get the easy mac'n cheesy out of the way.
2014's "Best Game I've Played While Hiding My Flaws In The Bathroom" Award:
Winner: Desert Golfing
Runners Up: Hitman Go, Threes, Dino Hunter: Deadly Shores
Hey remember when Isaiah said he was gonna publish his games writing for others to read and then didn't because f**k that? Yeah, I do too. As a result, I've played a lot of smaller games and taken notes for myself to remember why I really think games are special. Special, but -- you know, just not special enough to share with y'all in some long form writing diatribe.
Commence diatribe.
Desert Golfing is exactly the game you need to get you through a night where things aren't going too well. It teeters on the edge of reminding you just how much time you're potentially wasting escaping to a world of bleeps and bloops. But Desert Golfing also has these little nuggets of surprise, err, umm -- nuggets of something. And these nuggets play with the player. "Did I just see a cactus? Wait, where did it go?"
I like it when games do more with less. Creating constraints, then pushing their vision to the borders of the holding pen. Unfortunately, more games are surprising players by doing less with more. Large budgets that result in several weeks of critical bug fixes. Get it together games. Justin Smith, I salute you and look forward to the next game you put a cactus in.
2014's "Why Are You Still Playing This S**t Isaiah, Seriously, Why?" Award:
Winner: Tekken Revolution
Runner Ups: KOF XIII, Tekken Tag Tournament 2, Demon's Souls
My 2014 proved to be some combination of depression and angst with games. Anytime I tried picking up a controller to play something out of my daily norm, there was a wall. I went through a similar form of 'game depression' back in 2001, it lasted for about seven years. It revolved around me playing 4 fighting games concurrently. I played them competitively, so there's a little feather in my cap. But I hated the idea that I had to start over with something new. Sheesh, says a lot about me.
Tekken Revolution, as someone who competitively played every Tekken between Tekken 2 to Tekken 5 -- this game is not a good game. The invincible "red" moves break the game. The online is spotty and drops most bouts after five matches. Also it's free-to-play which means a large portion of the game is centered around grinding to make your character more broken. This results in playing against people who have potentially spent money so they can kill you in seven hits.
It's just a darn shame I've had so much fun with it. "How much fun have you had with Tekken Revolution Isaiah?" Goodness I thought you'd never ask. The game is sectioned off in daily sign-ins. And I'd say a normal session is about an hour for me. I have about 285 daily sign ins total. So, yeah. I've probably clocked over 285 hours in this free to play game I've spent, maybe $5 dollars on. No, please, I know I'm like the coolest person in your eyes right now. Don't bother telling me how cool you think I am, because I already know.
2014's "S**t. White People Have Discovered Us Here Too? Dammit." Award
Loser: Gamergaters
Runners Up: The Back Of The Club, Cosplay Conventions, College Campuses
It really sucked seeing my friends get harassed for, just about as long as I've been on Twitter. And this will be covered later, because I'm still mad at my friends for trying to start a damn "Let's Go Back To Facebook" movement. Y'all, Facebook is the Florida of social media. Only thing on facebook is an even more closed network of folks that really wanna give you their two cents on Obama's birth certificate, or whatever. Oh, and your exes.
Let's not mince words here, men's rights activist, gamers, redditors, youtube commenters and every slice of filth within these circles decided to learn how to use twitter this year. A couple of the leptons called their movement "Gamergate" but these anti-history buffs couldn't manage to change their avi's to an actual image of themselves much less string together a tweet that didn't center on co-opting black struggle and harassing women. Couple this with misguided women and people of color signing up for this aimless bowel movement, only for white figureheads [Milo, Mike, Total Biscuit] to use them as the, "how can this movement be racist or misogynistic? Some of our favorite gaters are black." Yet they still tweet. And yet, I still live.
They always existed in some form. They always will. I bounced back and forth between giving them attention, and just pointing and laughing around their incredibly harmful and toxic conversations. They disturbed conversations that were already happening and now we have to wait until these babies stop shouting so that we can continue on with the great work and great talks we were having prior to us smelling their sh**ty diapers.
Well I ain't waiting Gamergate. You do you. I'll be over here not giving a f**k about your ethics.
2014's "Best Thing About Social Media" Award:
Winner: Black Women Existing And Flourishing
Runners Up: Pictures of food, "Doing it for the Vine," NSFW Third Shift Twitter
My biggest sticking point of social media, specifically Twitter. I see a great deal of folks disturbed with seeing vocalized anger. Especially when this supposed anger is coming from voices they weren't privy to prior to the invention of the internet. Its also been made clear to me, given the current protest movements against police brutality, that merely speaking bluntly as black person auto-magically makes you a rage-filled demon beast.
Doesn't seem to occur to twitter users that they not opted-in to following us and now want us to speak in a softer tone. Tuh. Even I have to kick myself for not championing the voices of black women and indigenous women prior to this crude tool called Twitter. I wanna give a quick thank you and shout out to the following: Janice Taylor [Mom], Zahira Kelly, Cherell Brown, Carmen Perez, Lauren Chief Elk, Jamilah Lemieux, Mikki Kendall, Trudy, Feminista Jones -- goodness. I'm missing people. I love you all and thank you for going upside my head a few times.
I hate it when people in games culture try and tie things back to something 'gaming related' in their writing -- but I'm doing that. Because of black women's voices growing stronger and louder -- its made me look at my time spent in games writing. It's made me reassess the folks I boost and where I've come up short. So I wanna give a huge shout out to: Latoya Peterson, Gita Jackson, Mattie Brice, AngryFanGirl, Monique Mendoza, Aaminah Khan, Sarah The Rebel, Soha, Dina -- goodness am I forgetting someone? I know I am. Please feel free to punch me in the face to remind me of your impact.
Your voices are valuable. Incredibly valuable to me. Not every day was a sunny day. Somedays I got annoyed seeing your problems -- and I'm sorry. I needed to learn how to step away -- and I did. I'm sure some days y'all got tired of me butting into your convos and posting vines of monkey's peeing in their own mouths, or something of that nature. I'm still growing and I know you're not responsible for that -- but damn did you help me get this far.
2014's "Game I Can't Wait To Play In 2015" Award:
Winner: Joylancer
Runners Up: Terror Aboard The Speedwell, Zeno Clash 2, Remember Me
It's so hard to get this laptop to do anything that isn't typing-related. But after a year with it I'm finally ready to use this low-end laptop to experience some high end art of all forms [I'm even installing Photoshop as I type this -- I am also drinking whiskey as I type this]. Looking forward to playing TJ Thomas's Joylancer. I'd only seen screens of it and have managed to avoid all video of the game running so this is one of the few games that can only surprise me in the future.
There are a few games stacked next to my table that I have to get to. One of which is Dark Souls, but I'm not emotionally ready to hop back into a Zdzisław Beksiński nightmare just yet. And with itch.io making waves, these next few months I might actually be too busy pressing buttons than to write.
Drop me a line if you've got any recommendations. After listening to the podcasts and reading the articles of major outlets, it was quite telling. Seeing "Game of the Year" lists from outlets that employ voices with the hopes of having a varied and wide perspective just didn't do it for me. A lot of lists in recent years fought to have big budget games that did too much and resulted in doing too little. This year in particular we saw indie games finally be referred as -- plain old games. Partnered side-by-side with huge blockbusters that "kinda sorta" worked out of the box.
Be that as it may, if you know of any games, of any size that do what they do, well -- hit me up. I'm here for it.
2014's "People Of Privilege Say The Zaniest Things" Award
Winner: Owen Good
Runners Up: Just About Anything Said By Dan Rykert, Just About Anything Said By Helen Lewis
I've often said the good and bad that comes with being a black person, especially in games culture, is that when you angrily shout -- nobody hears you. So no matter how crude, or frustrated I may be with the representation of non-white, straight, cis men in games -- nobody can hear me. Or nobody wants to hear me. This year we saw a lot of social issues 'bubble to the top' of the minds of folks hired to write about what they love. A love shared in many ways by us all.
When people are protesting about their representation, their very existence, in media -- from CNN to IGN it helps to see writers in positions of power boost our voices. It helps that they hire us. It helps that they merely acknowledge our lives. When that doesn't happen. When there is silence. It hurts. Worse even is when pressure is applied by the very people they want to read their work and they respond in a manner that reveals their true feelings.
Owen Good did that. Owen Good is still employed and has fans and I wish him well. But outbursts like the one seen above, centered on a movement that zeroed in on harassment of marginalized people -- Owen decided to hurt, rather than help. Twitter ain't for everybody. And if you have issues talking about social issues, isn't that more of a reason why we need to have these conversations -- in public -- for all to see?
We can do better in 2015.
2014's "Best Dance To Keep Love In Your Heart And Music In Your Ears" Award:
Winner: New Style Hustle
Runners Up: Rockin', Breakin', Waackin'
Since my January 4th trip to New York in 2014, everyday I've been practicing New Style Hustle. I figured writing about video games, bboying, rock dancing and running wasn't enough on my plate. So this little dance is something I've been working hard at, and I love it so much. I love how it feels to show someone a move and then they show it someone else. Or when you think you got one move down, but your partner shows you what that move can turn into? Goodness.
Considering I've spent a large portion of my life being afraid of people, partner dancing is something I would have never guessed I'd be into -- let alone moderately decent at doing. Also, I've spent almost 15 years doing dances that were all solo expressions. It's been quite the learning experience and I can't wait to learn more!


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Acrylic Crystal Diamond Confetti (4-CT, 3 Colors)
Item: DC112
Add a little sparkle to your wedding reception tables with these 4-carat (10mm) acrylic diamonds. Scatter this unique table confetti with rose petals for a summer wedding or use alone for an icy winter-wedding look or diamond-themed wedding. Each bulk package contains approximately 800 sparkling clear, pink or aquamarine acrylic diamonds. They have pointed backs and NO foil backing.
Please note, these are not crystal. Like real cut diamonds, these diamonds have many facets that reflect light and give them a wonderful sparkle. You can re-use this diamond confetti over and over again for other events.
10mm (3/8" wide) = 4 carats
$9.95 pack of 800
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subset: commoncrawl


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Are the Middle East's contractors equipped to construct new energy projects?
The increasing demand for green energy projects in the Middle East means regional contractors must be attuned to the delivery requirements of these schemes
March has been an interesting month for the Middle East's energy sector, and particularly the renewables segment – and these developments point to increased activity for the region's contractors.
Take as an example Albanna Engineering, which was awarded an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract by a subsidiary of ENOC Group early in the month. Horizon Terminals awarded Albanna the EPC contract to develop a 16.2km jet fuel pipeline in Dubai, linking the group's storage terminals in Jebel Ali to Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai South.
UAE state news agency, WAM, reported on 5 March that construction for the pipeline was due to be completed in 24 months, with operational commencement scheduled for Q1 2020, in time for Expo 2020 Dubai.
More recently, London-headquartered oil and gas giant, Petrofac, announced the receipt of a $580m EPC contract in the Gulf. In a statement on 20 March, Petrofac revealed that the contract pertains to a "major project" with a GCC national oil company, but did not disclose any further information about the development or the client.
However, as the past week has shown, traditional energy schemes are not the region's only avenue for growth. As the Middle East actively pursues long-term environmental and economic sustainability, new energy sources promise to bolster the prospects of local contractors.
Perhaps the greatest evidence of this is the UAE's Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant (NEP), which reported progress last week. Construction on Unit 1 of the megaproject has been completed, with overall development progress recorded at 86%.
Barakah NEP's latest milestone highlights the change in mindset that is occurring in the Middle East's business community. As regional economies look to diversify away from traditional oil and gas power models, new energy sources are proving to be cost- and time-effective ways of ensuring local energy requirements are met with minimal impact on the environment. Be it solar, nuclear, or wind energy, regional contractors that exhibit excellence in these new sectors will grow steadily in the coming years.
After all, with $72bn (AED264bn) of planned investments, the UAE is expected to be the energy sector's second-biggest spender in the Middle East and North Africa region in the next five years, according to data compiled by Arab Petroleum Investments Corporation. Only Saudi Arabia ranks higher, with its investment in energy-related projects expected to reach approximately $149bn (SAR558.75bn) in the next five years.
These investments will undoubtedly lead to projects that will pique the interest of most regional contractors – EPC specialists and others alike. Contracting leaders that are looking to grow in the region would benefit from orienting their resources to meet the needs of the Middle East's future-focused energy sector.


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Commercial Electrical Contractor in Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Edmonton and surrounding areas
Established in 2008, Wireworks Electrical Services Ltd. is a full service commercial electrical contractor that serves Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Edmonton and surrounding areas. We are a BBB Certified Vendor and a proud partner with many local entrepreneurs. We ensure that your project requirements are met if you are just starting your project, require tenant improvements or a completely new build. Our goal is for your complete satisfaction with the finished outcome. We believe that strong communication is a key component to ensuring your business needs remain on track while gaining a long-term loyal customer along the way.
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Absolutely! If you are not satisfied, we will take the time to evaluate and possibly reclean within 24 hours. More importantly, we will be sure to clarify your expectations up front in order to meet them the first time around.
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This section contains 6,740 words
(approx. 23 pages at 300 words per page)
SOURCE: "Representing Ophelia: Women, Madness, and the Responsibilities of Feminist Criticism," in Shakespeare and the Question of Theory, edited by Patricia Parker and Geoffrey Hartman, Methuen, 1985, pp. 77-94.
In the following essay, Showalter probes a number of crucial questions surrounding the character of Ophelia which involve her status in the play and bring to the forefront the relation between madness, representation, women's sexuality, and femaleness.
"As a sort of a come-on, I announced that I would speak today about that piece of bait named Ophelia, and I'll be as good as my word." These are the words which begin the psychoanalytic seminar on Hamlet presented in Paris in 1959 by Jacques Lacan. But despite his promising come-on, Lacan was not as good as his word. He goes on for some 41 pages to speak about Hamlet, and when he does mention Ophelia, she is merely what Lacan calls "the object...
This section contains 6,740 words
(approx. 23 pages at 300 words per page)


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Know more about this business than we do? Cool! Please submit any corrections or missing details you may have.Help us make it right
Be the first NOLA.com user to add photos or videos of Sleep Diagnostics Inc
Sleep Diagnostics Inc can be found at Youree Dr 2800. The following is offered: Doctors & Clinics. The entry is present with us since Sep 9, 2010 and was last updated on Nov 14, 2013. In Shreveport there are 182 other Doctors & Clinics. An overview can be found here.


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best fashion app iphone ipad itunes get the look for less runway
Origin: In 1928, the Schott brothers introduced the first motorcycle jacket, the Perfecto, made from steer hide for better protection from road rash. The biker jacket became a pop culture icon when Hollywood stud Marlon Brando threw one on for Pashmina Ahmed, designer and owner of Plush Boutique, said she wanted to experiment by bringing high-street fashion labels to the local fashion scene, which is how the idea of the pop-up shop was born. "The exhibition has been a huge success Before joining WWD as a fixture runway photographer two years ago, Cristaldi worked for 26 years for Gap Japan fashion magazine. He learned much about the country, picked up the language and married his wife, Kaoru Skimizu. In a recent interview on photo Wonder how to work catwalk cool into your own closet? Here's how to translate the trends for real life. OK, so shorts at the office? Probably a no-no. Unless you work in a relaxed, creative environment, this just won't likely be a 9 to 5 This summer, a new event hosted by the Little Rock-based nonprofit Fighting Fancy will benefit support services for women with cancer. Set for next Thursday (June 20), Rock the Runway will be a New York-inspired runway show developed and chaired Allison Mora Couture presented her Spring/Summer 2014 Line at The Other Office in Old Sacramento on Saturday, June 15. The unveiling of Mora's latest line was well received. First came a fashion runway show, followed by a gallery style fashion showing on .
2 hours ago • By Debra D. Bass Post-Dispatch Fashion Editor email@example.com 314-340-8236 8th Annual Purses & Pumps for Pooches & Pals • Presented by the Humane Society of Missouri to benefit the Animal Cruelty Fund, the event will take place 6 HAVERFORD, Pa. --- Imagine a fashion runway stretched out over 6,996 yards with more than a hundred thousand spectators serving as potential investors in slacks, shirts and shoes. Around the world millions of television viewers catch a glimpse The Fashion & Design Festival (FDF) outdoor casting call took place at for four days and nights, will transform McGill College Avenue into a mecca of beauty, design, music and shopping for over 550,000 festival-goers. "For the 13th edition, we The top 3 Vietnamese fashion designers from the Project Runway Vietnamese edition will vie with one another for the crown in the final contest tonight. Three candidates of Minh Ha, Chan Hung and Gia Khang, after travelling to Paris to find inspiration and .
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Related post: Is trim down diet club worth it?
We have tons of great new options in our freezer, from raw marrow bones to frozen yogurts. One of the fun, super-nutritional options is the raw goat milk yogurt from Steve's Real Food. This yogurt is a simple, yet effective, way to add raw nutrition to your pet's diet. It's full of probiotics, vitamins, and minerals that boost your pet's immune system and promote healthy digestion. It also contains chia seeds which are known for absorbing toxins and keeping kidneys clean. Hank and Simon (my cat) both get yogurt added to their food as a topper, but you can also use it as a cool treat! It's so important to add moisture to your pet's diet and this is an easy and enticing way to do just that. Only containing three ingredients (raw goat milk, chia seeds, and coconut flour), this yogurt is super palatable and becoming a huge hit with our staff's and customer's pets! The yogurt comes in a convenient resealable pouch that stays good in the fridge for up to 21 days. You can purchase the raw goat's milk yogurt in a 4 oz. pouch for $5 or the 16 oz. pouch for $14.
Product review provided by Shop Dog staffer, Kelsi.


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Experiments Always Succeed
Their findings concurred with the conclusion that the experiment had failed: The monkeys didn't appear to react to the change in patterns.
via chronicle.com
This article exhibits two specific problems, one with the journalistic establishment and one with research overall.
The author of this piece is misrepresenting science and research, at least as a researcher who follows the scientific method would understand it, and this researcher is not only being dishonest in reporting his data, but if he believes as the journalist certainly seems to indicate that he does he isn't following the dictates of science and research.
Here's the crux of the matter: an experiment *only* fails if you approach it with the intent to prove a specific hypothesis. In the truest spirit of the scientific method this should never be the case – you undertake an experiment in order to form a hypothesis. If the experiment doesn't support your conclusion then either your conclusion is incorrect, you have misinterpreted the data, or the experiment you designed isn't testing what you thought it was. The experiment *always* does what it's designed to do, and any failure is with the experimenter.
Why this is wrong for the researcher should, I think, be obvious – if you're going into an experiment hoping for a particular outcome then you're already off the rails before you even start.
Why this is wrong for the journalist is perhaps not so clear. Articles like this one set the tone for our shared expectations and assumptions about the role of research in our society. We make value decisions about research based on these assumptions, and perhaps more importantly we make funding decisions based on them as well. If we, as a culture, expect experiments to conform to predetermined expectations then we are losing out on the true value of research and experimentation, and we ourselves are creating corrupt researchers like the one the article supposes Dr. Hauser to be.
Also, to Tom Bartlett, as much as I may disagree with whatever Dr. Hauser is alleged to have done, it is not Mr. Hauser, it is Dr. Hauser.
(sent to http://cori.posterous.com via email)


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On Saturday night we enjoyed a barbeque at our house with socializing, eating and drinking, sharing the day's activities, including the hubbies.
Some of the projects made during the day included making gorgeous stuffed Felted Owls, made in-the-hoop, cut out, sewn then stuffed.
Sewing on mesh with washaway stabilizer needs some added precautions. Students made a simple bag to learn the technique. Some made a Prairie Point trim using our Pleatmakers. All used our Fasturn Turning Tools to turn the fabric tube handle right side out.
Using Texture Magic students made this unusually textured purse plus the gorgeous 3-dimensional flower trim.
Texture Magic, then a steam iron held over the fabric, hovering above it, never allowing the iron to touch the fabric.
Fabric shrinks up to 30% resulting in a beautiful textured fabric which is permanent, even after laundering.


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Welcome to my digital digs!
Think of me as an entrepreneur with an Instagram obsession. Besides Instagram, I've invested the last 8-12 years of my life into digital marketing and building online businesses.
I believe that building influence and a social following doesn't have to be arduous. It can be simple, straightforward and executable. Influence can be built rapidly (just ask my clients!), and created to be on purpose, profitable and fun.
I'm here to give personal brands an edge in business, and big brands the creative innovative campaigns and ideas they need to attract a Millennial market.
Ready to work with me? Click the link below.


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I made this Market Bag for my Mom's birthday.
I have been waiting for it to arrive. I was praying she would like it.
Guess what. SHE DOES!!!
Phew***wipes brow***
My mom asked why on earth I would think she wouldn't. My reason well it's just a bag.
She said it was a complete surprise and she had no idea I could crochet that well.
Thanks mom.
Anyway thrilled she likes it.
And if you would like one let me know it will take about 2-4 weeks to complete and cost you about $45.00 But it will be well worth it, if you trust my mom. I make them out of cotton so that you can wash and abuse it. Just let me know the colour.


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Calling all Good and of course Bad Ass Dogs! Chrome Bones has done it again with it's newest 2010 Chrome Bones Dog Collars Collection.
From the classic bling bones chrome bones dog collars to a little southern flair dog collar with suede fringes.This newest collection will have all the dogs in your neighborhood howling as your dog struts it's stuff down the sidewalk or local dog parks.
Chrome Bones have not only created dog collars that are desirable to the common folks but of course will give you notarity with those who are up to date in the pet fashion world.
I'll let you in on a little secret about this new Chrome Bones dog collars collection. It has a lot of Bling just like in their previous designs but here's the catch... Wait for it, Wait for it....
It's less expensive!
So not only will you enjoy how your dog looks in each and every piece in the Chrome Bones dog collars collection but you don't have to go broke buy adding them to your dog's fabulous collar collection.
It's a win, win situation for all involved. Your dog looks great on their walks and your bank account still has it's zero's at the end and that's not a negative zero either!
So whether your making an investment in your dog's fashion look or buying a gift for a deserving four legged companion. The new Chrome Bones dog collars collection is what your dog needs and deserve.
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Bad Ass Petz Dog Boutique Web Design, SEO and Internet Marketing by My SEO Gal Small Business SEO Bad Ass Petz is Upfront


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The Giuliani Connection to the TASER Abuse ExplosionThere's so much to thank Rudy Giuliani for. Dead firemen and Tasers may just top the list.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Giuliani and Tasers ...
Thursday, November 29, 2007
More destruction of the ideals that made this country strong ...
Public Libraries For Profit by Akito YoshikaneAt some future time, as access to the Internet grows, and assuming that the Internet does not end up in the absolute control of the corporate mafia, perhaps, turning libraries into profit centers for the greedy will not matter.
Physical activity greater influence on mobility in old age than weight ...
'Use it or lose it' --Researchers from the Peninsula Medical School in Exeter, UK, have concluded a study that proves a direct link between levels of physical activity in middle age and physical ability later in life – regardless of body weight.
[...] Physical activity of about 30 minutes three or more times a week resulted in fewer than 13 per cent of people developing some sort of physical disability, while this rate increased to 24 per cent where subjects were less active.
Dr. Lang commented: "There are three truly interesting results from this research. The first is that our findings were similar from the US and the UK, which suggests that they are universal. The second is that exercise in middle age does not just benefit people in terms of weight loss – it also helps them to remain physically healthy and active later in life. The third is that, in terms of results from activity, weight does not seem to be an issue." ...
Bob Feinman, an American with a conscience ...
Tucsonan wants to help migrant who saved boyby Sheryl Kornman and The Associated Press
Tucson businessman Bob Feinman says he doesn't want to look like "some ugly foreigner trying to make a headline," but he does want to offer a hand to Manuel Jesus Cordova Soberanes.
The Magdalena de Kino, Son., man quit his two-day walk from his hometown across the Arizona-Mexico border to help a 9-year-old Arizona boy orphaned by his mother's death in a van accident.
Christopher Buztheitner was wandering in the desert in shorts the evening before Thanksgiving when Cordova, 26, a bricklayer, spotted him. . . .
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Down, down, down ...
Cynical NCLB causes crisis in TUSD
In 2002, Congress reauthorized the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, dubbed "No Child Left Behind" by President Bush.
Sold as public school reform, with phony standards, false accountability and an unfilled promise of millions more federal dollars, NCLB creates a moral dilemma for leaders of school districts across the nation.
Do they enforce this amoral law dutifully - even if it sets statistically unattainable benchmarks that ultimately will embarrass and perhaps destroy the public schools?
Or will they take a stand out of higher principles?
Unfortunately, leaders of Tucson Unified School District, like their counterparts across the country, have embraced the NCLB agenda.
Districts' compliance with NCLB diverts funds intended for teacher compensation, creates unnecessary budgetary pressures and promotes bureaucracy rather than educational excellence.
What gets lost in all the rhetoric is that all public schools will be deemed "failing" by 2014, no matter what they do to comply with NCLB.
As the list of "failing" schools grows, and as media attention legitimizes NCLB standards and student test scores in the eyes of the taxpayers, public opinion will more and more turn against the public schools.
Why do TUSD and other districts play a game they cannot possibly win? Because it is easier to conform to an amoral law than to challenge it.
Bush sold NCLB as a deterrent to "the soft bigotry of low expectations."
Is opposition to NCLB also opposition to high standards and equality? Is NCLB protecting children from teachers with low expectations?
By intervening with uniform standards to protect students, NCLB proponents claim they will bring accountability to public schools.
This cynical policy has serious flaws. It assumes that all children learn at the same rate, and it sets standards that are naturally exclusive.
When "Adequate Yearly Progress" is among the 144 standards, some students will not pass.
If a 100 percent passing rate is the benchmark for a school to avoid "failing," one must conclude that the NCLB agenda is not to improve public schools but to embarrass them.
For years, professional educators have realized that standards do not ensure quality schools.
Good education is relative; it is based upon the child's individual needs.
Because local teachers and their professional organization, the Tucson Education Association (TEA), are resistant to NCLB, they become an easy target when students do not meet the standards.
In TUSD's case, over the past year, the diversion of dollars from Proposition 301, passed in 2000 primarily for teacher pay; the taking of the governor's money intended for teacher compensation; and the blaming of the budget crisis on a recent 3 percent raise for teachers all have roots in the hidden cost of NCLB compliance.
NCLB compliance also has led large districts such as TUSD to adopt one-size-fits-all remedial programs that actually push out high-performing students.
At many schools, remedial classes have replaced advanced courses, and bureaucrats enforce districtwide curriculum regimentation.As a result, parents take their higher-performing students out of TUSD. They do not want their kids subjected to the remedial program.
And if TUSD achieves unitary status, the number of high-performing students leaving will likely increase as more options become available to parents.
The integrity of any individual or institution is the ability to do the right thing even when it is most difficult to do.
School district leadership consists of good people who, by dutifully enforcing an unjust law, are hurting the schools.
Public criticism of NCLB, especially at a time when it is up for reauthorization in Congress, is necessary to maintain professional and institutional integrity.
It is time for TUSD leadership to join with TEA in publicizing NCLB's damaging impact.
Paul Karlowicz is a history and political science teacher at University High School. He was president of the Tucson Education Association from 2003-2005.
Who writes these headings ...
Bilingual woman to become CEO of Hispanic ChamberIt's not just the heading. Sheryl Kornman, who I will assume is female, wrote the article which included this sentence:
She becomes a rare female commodity as a chamber president.Commodity? Maricela Solis de Kester's name isn't mentioned until the second paragraph. After all she's just a woman and women are objects who have gender and language skills. It's not like she's the subject of the article or anything!
Bilingual? So original to have a bilingual person heading a 'Hispanic' Chamber in the US, isn't it? So it must be Kester's gender that zoomed into the writer's lizard brain. Yes, it's not just men who fail to use their higher reasoning capabilities at times. Can you imagine anyone writing the heading 'Bilingual man to become CEO of Hispanic Chamber?' Sounds idiotic, yes?
At the time of this post there was one comment to the article posted by someone who identifies himself as 'fernando s. (mando1).' Fernado's cryptic comment is 'who cares!!!'
And so goes the US and the world ...
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Tucson Police flag cars for thieves ...
... while you're in stores shopping, Tucson Police are patrolling parking lots, randomly checking cars for security.Patrolling sounds like police works. But the rest? Don't the police have real work to do? Something other than flagging potential vehicles for thieves? Could we possibly have too many police officers and they're looking for more things to do?
Then they're leaving pass or fail report cards on vehicle windshields.
Ah, that makes sense ...
What to do? Why cut their funding, of course.
Child Protective Services faces legislative changes, may see its funding cut by Josh BrodeskyCutting funding when the opposite may be needed is how the red-mind works. But then there are a lot of the red-minded in the Arizona legislature.
"Some of the legislative changes under consideration would make CPS case records more open, allow CPS workers to file missing persons reports, give them greater access to criminal history records and open state employee records to the public in the same way as municipal and county employee records."But with the state roughly a billion dollars in the red, there is also the prospect that the beleaguered agency will take a funding hit, even as it tries to meet public expectations for improvement."
Monday, November 26, 2007
The Bush/GOP mafia hits us again ...
The next credit scandal --The real outrage of the credit crunch has been in the way major banks disclosed potential losses. Now, there are billions more in undisclosed risk. byPeter EavisThat the integrity, and respect around the world, of US finacial institutions was the result of government oversight, the same oversight the Republicans have gutted and eliminated (with the complicity of too many Democrats) is of no importance to those who have been able to get their money and get out. Will the rest, the victims realize who made them such suckers? Will the suckers go even further and consider their own part on putting and keeping the GOP mafia in power?
So where does enforcement end and extortion begin?
A good idea ...
Solar Power 101: A Community Education Series on Solar Energy begins with the first session from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday at the Woods Memorial Branch Library, 3455 N. First Ave.Hope this is more than just an attempt to sell some products!
Making Tucson more habitable for birds ...
Then there's the lizards. Cute little geckos, little lizards and then bigger lizards whose cold, fixed stare makes one wonder what's going on in their mind and thankful they are no larger.
The side benefit of this bird friendly enclave is that its a few degrees cooler in summer than the surrounding area.
Group wants emphasis on better bird habitat by Tom BealMaking our world greener and more comfortable costs no more than producing these sculptured heat sinks of cement and granite.
Some people think Tucson is for the birds, or should be.
The Audubon Society wants Tucson to be dotted with multi-storied vegetation and striped with riparian ribbons of green so that its members can get their feather fix without venturing too far — and so that we all can experience a greater variety of early-morning chirps.
This whole xeriscape thing has gone too far, say the bird lovers. Birds can't nest or rest or hide from their predators in decomposed granite. The sameness of our vegetation is producing a boring bird mix.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
More sign of the times? ...
Black Friday indeed: Crowds of shoppers pour into Tucson stores --Scuffles result in police being called out four times
Overnight Thursday into Friday, police received three calls about separate fights at the Best Buy store at 575 E. Wetmore Road, which opened at 5 a.m. Friday with early-bird deals. In each case, the clamor had stopped by the time officers arrived, said Officer Dallas Wilson, a Tucson Police Department spokesman.But scuffles weren't limited to electronics stores. Police responded to another fight call at a Toys "R" Us store, 4525 N. Oracle Road, but again said the problem subsided before officers arrived.
Yesterday's QUOTES ...
"It's not a one-size-fits-all world," Bronson said. "That's why we have gray matter. You can apply common sense."
So, while marriage and kids are still popular enough that the allegedly decadent gay community clamors for the right to have a normal bourgeois family (and ironically are being fought every step of the way by those who claim to be concerned about family's demise!), we hear nothing from the culture warriors about this particular kind of moral depravity:
One of the state's largest health insurers set goals and paid bonuses based in part on how many individual policyholders were dropped and how much money was saved.To Republicans making money and acquiring power is the only morality. Nothing else matters. All else is hype.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Tax and spend, a concept whose time has come ...
Tax and Spend? Hell, Yeah! by Susan J. Douglas
Why turkey ...
While scientists say that the tryptophan in turkey is probably not the source of holiday fatigue, a possible new role for tryptophan has recently been uncovered. It appears to affect our sense of trust.Here's bit of what Wikipedia has about tryptophan:
Tryptophan as a component of dietary protein is particularly plentiful in chocolate, oats, bananas,mangoes, dried dates, milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, red meat, eggs, fish, poultry, sesame, chickpeas, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, spirulina, and peanuts. It is also found in turkey at a level typical of poultry in general.
One widely-held urban myth is that heavy consumption of turkey meat (as for example in a Thanksgiving feast) results in drowsiness, which has been attributed to high levels of tryptophan contained in turkey.[42][43][44] While turkey does contain high levels of tryptophan, the amount is comparable to that contained in most other meats. Furthermore postprandial Thanksgiving sedation may have more to do with what is consumed along with the turkey, and in particular carbohydrates, rather than the turkey itself.
... in particular, the common American post-Thanksgiving dinner drowsiness, may be the result of a heavy meal rich in carbohydrates, which, via an indirect mechanism, increases the production of sleep-promoting serotonin and melatonin in the brain.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Just like our ever widening vehicle clotted freeways ...
... Like transportation planners who add more lanes to already clogged highways, we add more space to our food banks in the futile hope of relieving the congestion.Oh, and don't forget the law enforcement sector and the judicial sector and the public sector and especially the media sector that pretends to be the news sector. Where to start ... the list never ends ...
We know hunger's cause -- poverty. We know its solution -- end poverty. Let this Thanksgiving remind us of that task.
[When Handouts Keep Coming, the Food Line Never Ends by Mark Winne via The Sideshow]
Monday, November 19, 2007
Yesterday's QUOTES ...
[Near-done border fence stirs critics, defenders --Land swap: best deal possible or bad precedent? by Brady McCombs, Arizona Daily Star] ... but then, nothing matters anymore than using threats and fear to scam the entire country.
The Beltway obsession with Social Security is a classic case of a little knowledge being a dangerous thing. People have picked up a few facts about demography, and think they understand the long run budget problem. They don't. ... and neither does Obama, sorry to say.
The Bush/Cheney Legacy ... With the confirmation hearings for Michael Mukasey as Attorney General, one cannot but fear that we are descending into the hell that was the destination of those human societies that did not give sufficient weight to moral and ethical standards and the rule of law. Rather we have squandered morality and ethics in expedient actions that returned less than nothing: no security, no safety and no honor. That is the legacy of Bush and Cheney.
By the way: no one knows where al-Libi is today. He has been "disappeared" by Bush. Perhaps because his very testimony is such an indictment of Bush and his embrace of the Torture Regime.
I wonder if Chris Matthews realizes that every time he or one of his fellow gasbags blithely reveal their sexist lizard brains like this, another little feminist gets her (or his) wings.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Arizona, the best ...
Arizona ranks best in nation at detecting infant homicides by Thomas Hargrove and John HallWhat disturbs me about this article, besides the fact that some parents can and do kill their own child, is the self congratulatory nature of article about Arizona being just soooo gooood at identifying infant homicides but not one thought about what could be done to reduce the number of such homicides in the first place.
Society needs to provide training and help in raising the next generations. With the demise of the extended family (still around in some cultures) there is little for stressed and ignorant parents to fall back on. There's little or no relief at all for those without sufficient funds. The same steps that would reduce these homicides should be the same steps that would reduce child abuse in general.
Detection after the fact is not the only answer.
The really sad part of this is that we appear to be headed toward a society where more and more stress will be applied and fewer options made available.
Solving the puzzle is commendable but not if you helped set up the scenario in the first place.
Anyone really surprised? ...
... the Colombian families accuse Chiquita not just of paying "protection money" to terrorist organizations, but actually using the money, in essence, to have the terrorist organizations help Chiquita seize banana plantations from small growers.Part of the Republican Bush/GOP mafia? Terrorize all you want. Otherwise beware as we are back to a world where the masses must keeps their eyes lowered and averted lest they be chosen to prove the mafia's power or just destroyed on a whim for fun and games.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
We like him because he's Mormon ...
That's the way I read this article: Arizona's LDS population supports Romney campaign by Sonu Munshi, November 16th, 2007
More of the Red Mind ...
Now, this congress critter involves himself in every little Mexican cause that comes down the pike, whether it's a legitimate issue or not. Illegals are his favorite--as long as they play the downtrodden victim card. He's involved himself in the Catalina protests. When he campaigns, he forgets he has white constituents in his district and panders solely to the illegals. He is truly the Mexican version of Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson. If it involves illegals, you can rest assured he's there to fan the flames--whether it's a legitimate issue or not, whether he has all the facts or not. He's there, facts be damned.Certainly a sizable portion of Grijalva's constituency are of Mexican descent (because Republicans engineered this district so it would be so). As of the 2000 census 50.6% of Grijalva's district (Arizona Congressional District 7) describe themselves as Hispanic.
However what the red-minded don't appear to understand, or deliberately ignore, is that
- only US citizens can vote for him, and
- US citizens of Mexican descent do not all agree on the solutions to US immigration problems (same as those of us who are not of Mexican descent).
Santa Claus came to town this week ...
Santa Claus came to town this week, arriving at both Tucson Mall and Park Place with the hope of drawing kids, and presumably their shopping parents, to their stores.Why this should "cut shoppers' spending later" but not now escapes me?
Retailers nationwide have jump-started the season early this year out of fear that rising gas prices, depreciating home values and other economic woes will cut shoppers' spending later.
Yesterday's QUOTES ...
... actually, ignorant humans can get pretty darn stupid.
|Giggle ...
The conventions for locating the genes that encode proteins are pretty well established. The lingering problem for genomics biologists is locating genes whose parts are interrupted repeatedly, as well as locating genes that do not code for proteins.
Our nation is sick, and current "immigration crisis" is not the cause of this national illness, but just another symptom of it.
Oh, goodie ... "the results imply that current robot technology is surprisingly close to achieving [sustained] autonomous bonding and socialization with human toddlers."
Medicare "premiums have jumped 93 percent since 2001, when premiums were just $50 per month." ... Medicare is no longer the bargain public health program it is supposed to be, and most of the cost increases and new regulations that have weakened the program happened since the Bush administration took office in 2001.
To constantly deride her on the basis of gender is ridiculous. She's the front runner and there's plenty to criticize her for. (Her support for the Peru free trade agreement, for one.)That these guys are obsessing on the gender stuff is very, very revealing.
al-Libi is an important case to discuss, because as Stephen Grey reported in that Frontline piece, the "evidence" that was extracted from al-Libi under torture was not used to save the lives of thousands of people, but rather was responsible for causing the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people.
al-Libi is famous because his confessions were used by the Bush administration to make the connection between Saddam Hussein and Osama bin Laden. And the reason that the al-Libi story is so controversial is because it is so apparent that the only reason he came up with such bad information was because he was being tortured and was trying (desperately) to come up with things that his interrogators wanted to hear.
Friday, November 16, 2007
What's wrong with science reporting ...
Birds may not have clawed their way up the evolutionary tree
What a cute title. Birds 'clawing' up a tree. The rest of the article is mainly quotes interspersed with a few non-quoted sentences to show the science writer has a place in the process.
Deconstructing the brain ...
Research shows the brain's processing speed is significantly faster than real time --Scientists at The University of Arizona have added another piece of the puzzle of how the brain processes memory.Thought speed?
"The more practical point, I think, is that this methodology, the ability to measure how fast the brain is processing at the level of changing the state of the brain from one 10- millisecond epoch to the next, how fast the internal state is sweeping through its memories or its allowable patterns is, I think, a model for thought speed," McNaughton said.
Just the toss of a coin ...
Random silencing of genes may explain family differences: study --A process which leads to some human genes being randomly "silenced" is more common than thought and could explain why siblings react differently to illnesses ...
"It adds another layer of diversity beyond genetic diversity," explained Andrew Chess, an associate professor of medicine, and a molecular biologist at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts.I do not mean to sound sarcastic here, but who thought identical twins really were completely identical? Our unaided senses do provide much useful information, you know.
He noted that with random inactivation, even identical twins are not identical.
I luv science but I remember when scientists were telling us that dogs don't think and all canine actions were preprogramed. Well I had eyes and a brain and science has caught up with them. But I do wish that scientists would write their own 'copy.' Most journalists do not do science justice. Most journalists don't do journalism justice either, come to think of it.
Sign of the times ...
Women get 'virginity fix' NHS operations in Muslim-driven trend by JAMES CHAPMANFixing virginity has a past. Such thing as chicken blood have been used to prove virginity on, I assume, countless wedding nights. Physicians used to consider whether to even perform exams that might involve 'breaking' the hymen. I remember girlish gossip about hymen repair required for 'girl' athletes of the 50's. In fact I remember girls being advised not to run and jump too much as they might ... well you know.
But times have changed for most of us, thank whatever gods that be.
The devils, though, are still in evidence. Such as this woman, who thinks those 'others' should get just what they deserve ... like maybe death!
As a British Muslim I find 'virginity repairs' on the NHS dangerous, demeaning ... and utterly indefensible by SAIRA KHANI'm all for this operation if it is needed to save someone's life, either literally or figuratively. But the fact that we still live in a world where a woman's body is required to testify to her sexual acceptability is gross, obscene, abhorrent, loathsome.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
For long term brain health ...
Eating fish, omega-3 oils, fruits and veggies lowers risk of memory problems
A diet rich in fish, omega-3 oils, fruits and vegetables may lower your risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease, whereas consuming omega-6 rich oils could increase chances of developing memory problems, according to a study published in the November 13, 2007, issue of Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.
Killing us softly ...
Stopping Cars with Radiation --A beam of microwave energy could stop vehicles in their tracks by Brittany Sauser
"I have no doubt that if you set up a microprocessor and get a high-powered, well-focused beam of energy on [a car], you can disrupt its operation," says Peter Fisher, a professor of physics and the division head in particle and nuclear experimental physics at MIT. But to be able to deploy such a system safely will take some work, he says.
Imagine if a police officer is in a high-speed chase near a shopping mall and turns on one of these systems to stop the perpetrator: a lot of elevators have microprocessor controls, so if the officer is pointing the device in the direction of the mall, he or she could end up trapping 12 people in an elevator, says Fisher. Many other electronic systems, such as an automated teller machine or a security system, could also be disrupted.
Furthermore, Fisher cautions that, while the system may seem like an easier and more efficient solution than spike strips, it could still cause a huge accident if a car is disabled and a driver loses steering control. The system could pose a safety concern as well: radiation can burn human skin, and microwaves have long been suspected of being a cancer-causing agent.
AARP of the split mind and forked tongue?
AARP of 2 minds on private plans
(Note: I have an AARP sponsored Medicare Part D (prescription drug) plan because it was the best I could find which does not mean I like or approve of the way Part D is structured. But I have to hand it to AARP -- their plan is the most straight forward and complete.)
And the beat goes on ...
Az Daily Star reports that "law enforcement access to students ... will be up for discussion at the Tucson Unified School District Governing Board meeting tonight."
The newspaper also has an online poll asking "Should Tucson Police help enforce immigration law?" At the time I am writing this the unscientific results show 78% want Tucson Police officers to enforce federal immigration laws and 21% do not.Last Monday, about 100 students marched from Catalina Magnet High School, 3645 E. Pima St., to the federal building Downtown and eventually to Tucson Police Department headquarters. They demanded an end to the policy that allowed Border Patrol officials on their campus, which led to the deportation of a family of four.Pfeuffer and administrators met with police officials and agreed to a policy that afternoon that says police will not summon immigration authorities to schools but instead will follow up somewhere else.
Monday, November 12, 2007
Two Comments ...
These two comments are from the Arizona Republic (Phoenix):
Policies are A-OK in America - notWhat has happened to my country? Southern Lebanon is littered with cluster bombs made in America and rained on the population by Israelis, and that's OK with us? The nominee for attorney general refuses to say that waterboarding is torture, which is illegal, and that's OK with us? Our government arrests suspects, transports them to other countries, suspends their civil rights, and that's OK with us? Brazil fuels its cars with sugar cane while we watch oil climb to $100 a barrel, and that's OK with us? When do the real Americans tell our leaders these things are not OK with us?
Joanie Flatt, Public relations community advocate
Logic is no longer straddling borderIt is now reported that under a new program, Operation Streamline, officials may actually start prosecuting all adults caught illegally crossing the Arizona-Mexico border. Imagine that: actual consequences for actual crimes. Remember, under federal law, a first illegal border crossing is a misdemeanor, but any subsequent crossing can be charged as a felony. Too bad the program was not in effect before Rogelio Gutierrez and Erik Martinez wrought their respective crimes upon Phoenix police officers. But as they say, those who fail to learn from the mistakes of the past are bound to repeat them in the future. Sad.
Ian A. Macpherson, Tax attorney
Another RED mind ...
TAXPAYER REVOLT:NO MORE PROPERTY TAX INCREASES TO PAY FOR ILLEGAL ALIENS IN OUR SCHOOLS,HOSPITALS OR USING SOCIAL SERVICES FORCING THE AMERICAN TAXPAYER OUT OF THERE HOMES! (Note: I've not seen all the details listed about the deported family reported in the news as yet so some of what Leister writes may be his assumptions and not facts.)Leister is just ecstatic that a Tucson school outed, with the help of a police officer, a family that had been living illegally in this country for some time (and undoubtedly paying all kinds of taxes and fees in the process). The family was deported. But Leister, who does not want a cent of his taxes to go to services that might by chance be used to help an illegal immigrant, does want his taxes used to incarcerate the family rather than deporting them.
Info and opinions about deported student and his family:
Family deported after boy's arrest at school --Immigrant rights concerns raised; police say action was appropriate by Brady McCombs, 11.06.2007
Opinion by Ernesto Portillo Jr. : Deportation stirs backlash --100 march in protest of Border Patrol going on Catalina High campus: Students were right to march, and we can expect to see more like it Opinion by Ernesto Portillo Jr., 11.07.2007
Letters to the Editor at the Arizona Daily Star (note: most letters were against the family)
Deportation is not justifiedThe suspension of the Catalina High student was justified; however, the student and his family's deportation was not. The Tucson Police Department works for Tucson, not Nogales, not Phoenix and not the Border Patrol.Suggesting that Tucson police should start identifying possible illegal immigrants for deportation is ridiculous. Enforcing immigration law is a distraction to the police goal of keeping its jurisdiction safe and productive. It also downplays the huge job the Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement perform.The Tucson police should continue to enforce our local and state laws and leave immigration to the proper federal agencies.Casey StoneCollege student, Tucson
Southern Arizona is a hotspot for illegal immigration. Perhaps more than anywhere else, the battle over illegal aliens has been in the news nearly constantly for years.Border Reporter on same
Today, the Arizona Daily Star covered a story about a family that was deported last Thursday after their teen son was discovered to have a small amount of marijuana at school. The family had been in Tucson for six years, had a house, and had two kids in the school system.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Plague Suspected In Death Of Man In Arizona ...
"The recent appearance of plague activity in two northern counties has us concerned that we may see plague in other areas as well."
Animal cases of plague in Arizona in 2007 include prairie dog colony die-offs in two separate neighbourhoods in Flagstaff in Coconino County, and a pet cat in Prescott in Yavapai County.
Arizona state health officials warned campers, hunters, hikers and others who live at 4,500 feet or higher or are visiting the area, to take the following precautions to avoid being exposed to the plague:
For more information call the Grand Canyon National Park Incident Information Center at (928) 638-7922 or (928) 638-7688.
- Do not handle sick or dead animals.
- Don't go near rodent burrows.
- Avoid exposure to fleas.
- Stop your dog or cat from roaming as they can bring home plague infected fleas.
- Use flea control products on your dog or cat, ask your veterinarian about the best ones.
- Wear protective gloves when cleaining or skinning wild animals, for instance for cooking.
- If cooking game meat, do so at 180 degrees, until the juices run clear.
- If you get start getting symptoms like those listed above, within 6 days of a potential exposure, seek medical help at once.
- If your cat falls ill, get it checked by a veterinarian.
The RED mind ...
The U.S. House has passed HR3685, or "ENDA," a bill that ostensibly prohibits discrimination against homosexuals. In reality, it puts in place another plank to legitimize that lifestyle. "Legitimizing" ultimately makes it more difficult to keep it out of schools, churches, and other places where one might want to make reasonable exceptions.A call for invasion and democracy should come next from the RED sector of the State of Arizona ...
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Yesterdays's QUOTES ...
|In the right direction? ... The agency does not have data on companies pulling call-center services back from overseas but is aware of the trend anecdotally, said Laura Shaw, a spokeswoman for TREO. ... now lets get some manufacturing back. The same cheaply designed and produced product from every retailer is not what I call progress.
Ya don't say ... "The acceptance of sexist humor leads men to believe that sexist behavior falls within the bounds of social acceptability."
Chuck Schumer, just another Rubberstamp Democrat ... Yes, isn't it appealing for the United States Senate to say unambiguously that that torture is wrong. Wow, what a concept. But apparently not appealing enough for Chuck Schumer.... so Mukasey told Chuckie Cheesie that he, Mukasey, would follow the law. Told Chuckie privately? But would NOT say the same publicly to the nation? So Chuckie is what? Stupid? So gullible he never learns even after 7 long and painful years? Or he is just plain complicit with the illegal goings-on of Bush's corrupt administration.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Driving while brown ...
Hispanic motorists were the most likely to be searched, arrested, cited and to receive multiple citations and the least likely to get off with warnings.But hey, don't get too upset ... there could be, uh, 'other' factors ... the authorities don't need no stinking laws to hamper them, they just 'know' who's guilty and what everyone else is thinking! Only those laws that facilitate the authorities control of the public apply.
PHOENIX -- A study of traffic stops conducted by Arizona Department of Public Safety officers found evidence of possible racial profiling by officers, although researchers cautioned that other factors may be responsible for high rates of stops and searches of minority drivers.Here's how I interpret these findings. I've owned at least one vehicle that had recurring tail light problems (that is the turn signals and/or the tail light would just stop working). In all, I was stopped maybe 5 or 6 times over a period of several years. I would get the warning, get the tail light fixed (again) and after some period of time (months or a year) the light would go out again. Sometimes I caught it myself. The way I read these finding is that if I were dark in color and/or non European looking I would stand a very good chance of being arrested and/or having my car searched because of that damned tail light. To me that's harassment, plain and simple. Certainly I need to get the light fixed but to use such an excuse to stop, search, interrogate and arrest people is not the sign of a free country. In addition it leads to corruption. It becomes just too easy to pretend there is a stoppable problem with any vehicle. Lying has just become too easy for our police. Everyone expects them to do it. They never appear to be held accountable when they are caught lying. So much for integrity. So much for justice. So much for a respect for the law. So much for freedom.
The University of Cincinnati report mirrors findings by a Northern Arizona University researchers three years ago. The new study shows Highway Patrol officers were more than twice as likely to search vehicles driven by Hispanics and blacks than white drivers during 2006. Minorities also were far more likely to be arrested or to receive multiple traffic citations.
Hispanic motorists were the most likely to be searched, arrested, cited and to receive multiple citations and the least likely to get off with warnings.
The 223-page report was done to satisfy terms of a 2006 settlement of a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union and criminal defendants that accused officers of targeting minority motorists along interstate highways near Flagstaff.
Vehicle CO2 Emissions ...
In fact, it was the failure of the EPA to even respond to California's request for a waiver that led to the decision Thursday by Gov. Arnold Schwar- zenegger to sue. Goddard said it makes sense for Arizona to join in that effort."It's important to point out this isn't just a California problem," he said."The EPA's failure to act on California's waiver request affects Arizona motorists," Goddard continued. "And it affects the air quality in our state as well because we've adopted the same standards that California seeks to adopt."
Right on ...
Thursday, November 8, 2007
How the US supports the troops ...
Don't believe your lying eyes?
Sexy walk could be misleading message: --A woman who walks with a seductive sway of her hips is unlikely to be ovulating, a finding that sheds light on the complex sexual signals that women give to men, New Scientist reports.
A team at Queen's University in Ontario, Canada, dressed female volunteers in suits which had light reflectors placed on the joints and limbs and filmed them walking in order to analyse their gait, the British weekly says. ...
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Believe me, our elected Democrats do NOT believe in Freedom of speech or thought ...
The bill calls for heightened scrutiny of people who believe, or might come to believe, in a violent ideology.
So called Democrats like Giffords and Grijalva voted for surveillance of people based on what they may come to believe. I suppose they will start to black list connections to the Internet next, based on what someone thinks you think or may come to think some day, perhaps, maybe.Examining the Homegrown Terrorism Prevention Act by Lindsey Beyerstein -- The Violent Radicalization and Homegrown Terrorism Prevention Act passed the House of Representatives on Oct. 23 by a vote of 404-6. The wide margin is indicative of a growing concern among U.S. authorities about the potential for so-called "homegrown terrorism" in the United States.
And can you believe this: "Rep. Harman is careful to emphasize the language in the bill that states that the Department of Homeland Security's efforts "shall not violate the constitutional rights, civil rights, or civil liberties of United States citizens or lawful permanent residents."" 'Our' Reps have learned nothing, absolutely NOTHING, in the past seven years. Idiots! Because they refuse do their job and ensure the structure and controls are in place to actually guarantee our constitutional rights they add meaningless words to their laws repeating what should already be manifest. We have rights. These right are already guaranteed in our Constitution. Our elected officials are ignoring and undermining these rights on a daily basis.
And then there's this:
The broad wording of the bill leaves open many questions. If homegrown terrorism is defined to include "intimidation" of the United States government or any segment of its population—could the Commission or the Center of Excellence task itself with investigating groups advocating boycotts, general strikes, or other forms of non-violent "intimidation"?Could telling my Rep I will never vote for him again 'til Hell freezes over be considered intimidation? One person's negotiation will turn out to be another person's intimidation. Just one more excuse to arrest someone. They won't care if the arrest is overturned. Government officials will like the harassment value. And it's Democrats who created this monstrosity!
These representatives who hardly take our phone calls, who are likely to arrest us if we show anything other than a subservient attitude in their offices and send gibberish in reply to correspondence are in fact very afraid of us, wouldn't you say?
Here's the Border Reporter's take on the subject: FERTILIZER INDEED
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Sadly ...
The World Is Not Enough for Humans --Humanity's environmental impact has reached an unprecedented scope, and it's getting worse by David BielloSadly, I've come to the conclusion that we humans are not not capable of solving our really critical problems through reason, knowledge, organization and intelligence.
So Senator Reid ...
So Senator Reid once again takes out his RUBBER STAMP for a Bush nominee. By being a non-leading 'leader of the Senate' Reid is ensuring that Mukasey will be approved. Reid helps Bush appoint another pro-torture Attorney General, albeit one not as stupid as the previous one.
Today's Must ReadBy Paul Kiel - November 6, 2007, 9:42AM
I just don't think these people understand that as the driver of a bank robber's getaway vehicle is taking part in the crime the failure of our Senators and Representatives to fight this administration when it is doing wrong (which is most, if not all, of the time) makes them complicit in the crimes being committed in our names. They are also responsible and should be placed in the dock along with Bush and his gang of criminals.
I thought the problem might be generational but then I look at the younger elected Democrats, like Representative Giffords from Arizona and even Senator Obama and I see the same tendencies to the mere spouting of platitudes; making spurious justifications and excessive excuses.
I realize that the Republicans are worse, but Democrats just ain't no prize either ...
Yesterday's QUOTES ...
And by the way, he's losing because of it.
... No one seems to notice that, as with everything else in Iraq, the Iraqis are going to do what they want, when they want. When al-Sadr lays down his arms, there will be relative peace. When he takes them up, Americans will die in dozens.
Regardless, the fortunes of Iraq will turn on Iraqi decisions made in Baghdad and Najaf, not in Washington, D.C. and the halls of Congress. As this situation shows, peace in Iraq lies in the hands of Iraqis. It cannot—and will not—be forced by Americans at the point of a gun.
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Arizona High Country Campground ...
On posting from the wilderness ...
Really, the above paragraph was not where this post was headed when I took up that metaphorical pen. Having a partiality to technology, mostly in the form of computers and cameras (two areas that have beautifully merged in the recent years) I was amazed once again at the changes that have taken place in these field since the 60's which is when my working life began.
Each little mile post, such as posting from a campground, sends my thoughts back to my first Mac and that I had sitting on my desk (or table as really was the case) more power, memory and capabilities than some of computers that I programmed and/or operated by reading in stacks (and I do me stacks) of punched computer cards.
I often resist this trip down memory lane to the time of 1401's, IBM 7072's, 350's, 360's, Univacs, RadioShacks, Macs and Mac Plus' and even more names and numbers than I can recall as
- I don't wish to be thought of as 'living in the past,' and
- a state of ongoing amazement at the rate and extent of technological changes in this field must be politically incorrect, or something.


text: > Kai Schaetzl wrote: >> Susan Day wrote on Fri, 26 Feb 2010 09:25:38 -0400: >> >>> Sorry, but this has NOT been my experience. I just tried that list >>> __last_week__ and __no__ responses, no activity, either. >> >> Maybe that's because of the nature of your questions. I get the >> impression that you are mostly asking very basic questions that a >> sysadmin *should* know or at least know how to google them up. I get the <snip> > Give her a break. Programmers always have a hard time picking up on the > system admin side of things. I have had my fights with programmers. I agree. I've spent a good bit more of my career as a programmer than as a sysadmin, and in both cases, I expect the system software to *work* as expected, and when it doesn't, I find it tends to be truly obscure errors that senior admins scratch their heads over. mark


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Gretta Cole, Velorution
Gretta is the co-owner of Velorution, retailers of some of the most lusted after urban bikes and cycling kit in London. Here she tells us about what makes the likes of Biomega and Rizoma stock their bikes exclusively in Velorution.
What's the ethos behind Velorution?
Velorution is a destination lifestyle brand offering a unique blend of award-winning products and bicycles. Everything we do leads on exceptional quality and innovation with no compromise. Our collections are produced by some of the most inspirational designers and engineers in the world. Our pioneering spirit has seen us embark on major projects including three issues of the Velorution lifestyle magazine all produced in-house.
What inspired you to go into the cycling industry?
Cycling is one of the fastest growing markets, it's interesting. We reshaped Velorution in 2012 to redefine the cycling store experience. It's an exciting time for Velorution as we look to expand rapidly in 2016.
You have so many unique and beautiful bikes in Velorution - where do find them all?
We aim to exceed customer expectations by offering the best quality at reasonable prices. We know exactly which products fit our business model and we seek them out. We are approached all the time by brands looking for a home, we have to be very selective.
What do you look for when taking on a new brand?
Good question, a combination of design and functionality plus the engineering but most of the time it's the people behind the products who stand out.
We came to you with our first ever designs for LUMO, what did you like about the concept and how does it fit with your ethos?
We have taken on similar concepts that haven't worked. Doug and Lucy are professional people who had a passion and determination for their new business and were extremely keen to absorb as much information as possible to get the product right. LUMO have gone beyond our expectations in producing a premium product that fits into our collection.
You seem to have a very loyal base of customers - your 'Velorutionaries'. What makes them so loyal to you?
Our customers are interesting, professional people and high net-worth individuals who all appreciate quality and good service. We take the time to get to know our customers. When a customer buys a bike from Velorution they absolutely love the bike and want to show it off sometimes by featuring in our magazine and website. It's great fun.
Who's your most famous customer?
We have to be discreet as we deal with so many high profile people from entrepreneurs, broadcasters, singers, movie stars, directors and princesses.
David and Brooklyn Beckham spent a lot of time with us last year, that's all I can say.
You've launched a magazine, your own clothing line, and a store in Selfridges and John Lewis. What's next for the brand?
Next year we aim to expand the business rapidly.
What tip would you give a new cyclist in London?
Buy a good quality bike from Velorution that's going to last.
What's your favourite clothing label?
LUMO for Cycling and Vince for everyday, I only buy quality because it lasts.
Who's your favourite person to cycle with?
I prefer to be alone.
I couldn't live without my…
Unfortunately my iPhone 6+ with the large screen.
When I'm not working, you will usually find me...
In a great restaurant or sitting on my sofa drinking a glass of bubbles.
Velorution also have their own coffee stall, serving Black Sheep coffee. In keeping with the cycle style theme, the portable café is modelled around a Pashley Classic No. 33 tricycle, designed by Sebastian Conran.


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Moderator: coldharvest
RYP wrote:DP kinda started because the State Department didn't quite know if the country they worked in was dangerous or not. Or they were political harangues. Now they do a much better job but for some reason they refuse to include U.S. destinations. Ideally they would've the best access to crime against tourists and visitors.
sparrow wrote:11 school shootings already by January 23rd. That's got to be some kind of record.
db36046 wrote:It just isn't happening.
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Add your favoriteCompany/Serviceto this section >
Address: 5B Ion Ionescu de la Brad St.
Phone: +4021 9268
Web: www.reginamaria.ro
Regina Maria has 12 more clinics in Bucharest, the Euroclinic hospital and a gynecology hospital.
Copyright City Compass 2008 - 2019
City Compass SRL is a carrier of data with personal character, registered in the "Registrul de Evidenta a Prelucrarilor de Date cu Caracter Personal" with the nr. 28155.


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Dogs Accessories Blog was made for my dogs to post on! Because I am a geek, my dogs have to be as well (Even if they don't know it)! They like to post animal facts and information, and sometimes they like to rant about dogs things. They have been looking for people that want to submit their dogs on there, which I think is cool because who does not wants their dog on the internet? Or maybe people are not as weird as we are? Lolz
If you wanna come check out some uber coolio dog bloggers take a look at – Dogs With Accessories
Zoie, Zed and Cait Hagar


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Bratislava Treasure Hunt
This is a great activity for the more adventurous of you out there who would like to know more about Bratislava and not just its beers and clubs.
The teams will walk through the historic streets of Bratislava, among the most famous monuments as well as beautiful hidden places to solve series of problems and challenges, answer carefully prepared questions, take photos and perform various tasks during the event in the quickest time possible while competing with other teams within your group. After completion of the hunt you will re-assemble and hand in all files to our professional guide for marking followed by a wrap up and awarding of the winners and of course a well deserved beer!
Professional Guide
Individual Maps
1 Beer Each
- Each Treasure Hunt Individual
- Located in the Old Town
- Available All Year


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Progressive Coaching
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Progressive Coaching
"All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us" -- Gandalf
Our political moment is unique. We are called upon as leaders like never before. As Americans, we seek a more perfect Union. As progressives, we believe that there are things that only government can do, and we need government to them well if this Union is to ensure it's citizens life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. As a coach, I support progressive leaders to build political power in their communities, demonstrate transformative leadership, and win elections.
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Champ Chaser Kids
Learn to Sail
Contact Us
T-Shirts & Hats
You'll live aboard and explore Lake Champlain's bays, islands and coves.
You'll learn to sail and navigate, plot courses, verify the weather,
and sail the boats. You'll swim in sparking clear waters by day and relax by
a beach campfire at night. You'll learn the value and
importance of working together as a team, and make new friendships that
will last a lifetime.
Although we can't guarantee that you'll actually meet Champ, we can guarantee
one of the best summer experiences ever!
The cost is only $119.00 per junior sailor.
Save $40 if you register with three of your friends!
Click HERE for Champ Chaser Sailing Adventures rates
Click HERE for the Champ Chaser Contract. Save it, Print it, and mail it to sign up!
If you have problems with this form or the links please email us and we'll email you the forms.
Email: email@example.com
Email: email@example.com


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Dining: Breakfast and Brunch
Lyle's Bar & Restaurant Lyle's Bar & Restaurant2021 Hennepin Avenue South Minneapolis , Minnesota 55405- work Tel: (612) 870-8183work
|Hours | Description
|Visit Website | Show Map |
Monday – Sunday: 10:00am to 2:00am
Lyle?s is a classic seedy dive bar, yet everyone loves it?Why?!? Because the drinks are cheap, strong, and easy to come by. Lyle?s has the famous 2 for 1 any cocktail most of the time.
Twin Cities Leather & Latte Twin Cities Leather & Latte2717 Hennepin Avenue South Minneapolis , Minnesota 55408- work Tel: (612) 756-9825work
|Hours | Description
|Visit Website | Show Map |
Monday – Friday 7am – 10pm
Twin Cities Leather was founded with 3 key principals: Community based – quality products – great customer service.
In 2011 three men came together and wanted to help their leather/ kink community. Coming from different perspectives, each had a commitment to see their community grow and expand via welcoming in more people. One is a blogger, the other has event experience, the other is a leather worker. By combining their passions for kink with their professional experiences they formed Twin Cities Leather in 2012. On December 8th, 2012 Twin Cities Leather opened for business and is now the only kink/leather supply shop in town.
What makes Twin Cities Leather different? We are more than just a leather store… we are a community resource with ties to kink/leather blogs, educational materials, speakers, history, product suggestions, news, and other resources intended to help you understand, experience and enjoy your leather/kink and sexual lifestyle(s).
General Information: Espresso Drinks, Drip Coffee, Pastry, Sodas, Amusements, Cereal, and Tea.
Leather repair, alterations, and care. Harnesses, gear, kink wear, fashion, alternative clothing and accessories.
Uptown Diner Uptown Diner2548 Hennepin Avenue South Minneapolis , Minnesota 55408- work Tel: (612) 874-0481work
|Hours | Description
|Visit Website | Show Map |
Monday – Wednesday: 6:00am to 3:00pm
If you've got a hankering for breakfast food, the Uptown Diner is the ideal spot to get cozy in a plush booth, order a short stack or scrambled eggs, and let it all hang out.


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The Lab Rat is TDT's all-in-one, portable neurophysiology system for scientists at any stage of their career interested in starting electrophysiology experiments. This high-value system comes with all of the hardware and software needed to start experiments immediately and features many of the exciting benefits of more advanced TDT product lines.
Lab Rat is a complete neurophysiology platform that connects via USB 3.0 and supports real-time spike sorting and visualization. It includes a 16 channels of high-quality, analog amplification for recording many biologic signal types including single units, LFPs, EEG and EMG. A digital input is also included to support direct recording from Intan-based digitizing headstages or electrodes. The Lab Rat also includes two channels of general purpose ADC and DAC and 16 bits of TTL I/O easily allowing flexible interfacing options.
All-in-one, portable electrophysiology recording interface
Breakout connector for touchproof surface electrodes
16-channel headstage for acute, single unit recording
Above (From Left to Right): LR10, SB4, AC16LR connected to an NN probe*
*Acute Probe not included with LR10-SKI Kit.
Getting Started with Lab Rat - Part 1
Quick tutorial to get you started using The Lab Rat, TDT's all-in-one, portable neurophysiology/electrophysiology system
Quick tutorial to get you started using The Lab Rat, TDT's all-in-one, portable neurophysiology/electrophysiology system
Getting Started with Lab Rat - Part 2
Lab Rat complete setup of your first experiment using Synapse Lite (LTE) - Stimulate & Acquire
Lab Rat complete setup of your first experiment using Synapse Lite (LTE) - Stimulate & Acquire
Synapse Training Videos >
USB 3.0 Connection
DB25 Connector: 16 bits of Digital I/O plus Analog ADC, DAC, and power
16 Channel Neural Input
Single-bit BNC ports
Stereo ADC and DAC
Digital Headstage Interface
Built-in Speaker with Level Control
Lab Rat comes fully assembled with everything you need to get started with experiments. Whether you are new to recording neural signals or are ready to carry out a full neurophysiology experiment, Lab Rat is ready to go.
Lab Rat is self-powered and connects to a PC via high-speed USB 3.0. This enables you set up your rig for upcoming recordings, start designing experiments, and perform experiment debugging and testing whenever you want.
Lab Rat comes bundled with Synapse Lite, which includes much of the amazing functionality found in the full versions of TDT's Synapse Suite. Using Synapse, easily create highly-customized experiments and control each step of the signal processing.
Synapse Lite relies on Corpus, TDT's virtual DSP software that facilitates real-time signal processing without dedicated DSP hardware. Whether you are new to electrophysiology, training students or teaching neuroscience methods, TDT's Lab Rat is an extremely cost-effective way to get started!
You can easily control the Lab Rat with Synapse Lite to visualize, interact, and share collected neural data between our Industry-leading System 3 hardware, without compromising your budget. Synapse Lite provides investigators with a quality user-interface that incorporates processing tree design elements with drop-and-play TDT gizmos that simplify experimental set up and execution. Automated 16-channel spike sorting is as easy as adding one gizmo into your Synapse Lite experiment!
See the Difference >
© 1987-2019 TDT. All Rights Reserved.
Tucker-Davis Technologies | New Frontiers in Neuroscience
Website Feedback
TDT Product Catalog


text: The government announced changes to employee share option rules on 14 October 2014. Deloitte is pleased to see so many of the changes from our submission to Treasury in February 2014 reflected in the government announcement, including: Taxation of options for start-ups only at the time the underlying shares are sold and not before Using revenue as a key criteria for defining a start-up Holding of the equity instrument for three years Extending the period of holding an option beyond the current seven years A review of the valuation requirements underpinning equity taxation A need for standard documentation for share plans for start-ups Our submission set out to bring the voice of the start-up sector to Treasury and the government through our 'Barriers to innovation' survey. This was completed by over 100 companies across multiple sectors. Register to download the submission here. We are keen to keep this conversation going. Despite this step in the right direction, there are still a lot of unanswered questions for owners of start-ups, such as: Will my current plan be able to access the concessional treatment or will I have to create a new plan to be eligible? How will the start-up criteria be managed? e.g. Will the $50m aggregated turnover be taken from the company's last P&L? Will the ATO have to approve the concession or is it self-assessment? How do you value shares in an unlisted company, as that value is a key requirement in valuing an option using the tax tables? Is this start-up concession available to founders and investors as well as employees or just employees? Is this start up concession for Australian business only? Or can it apply to equity provided to Australian employees of overseas companies investing in Australia as well (providing the start-up definition is met)? Deloitte looks forward to further consulting with the Government & Treasury as they work through the above items and other issues affecting start-ups.


text: This is what I've been thinking about a lot lately. It's not the one-offs that make change happen. It's not the chance encounters that always bring us what we want. It's taking the small baby steps towards something bigger that make you look back and realize it has changed for better or for worse. I vow to take those baby steps towards something better. Towards something I am proud.


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Relaxed bike tours
Qualified guides
Handpicked tours & activities
24 / 7 support
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Come cycling with us in Bruges! Let a local show you not only the Highlights, but also some secret corners in this fantastic city within a few hours.
Price per person€ 30
Departure time10:00 am
Duration2,5 hrs.
Bruges Sightseeing
- Bruges Sightseeing
- English-speaking guide
- Discover the city in 2.5 hours
- Fun, safe and relaxed
- Book now, pay later!
Visiting this wonderful Belgian city? Do one of our Bruges Sightseeing Tours and discover all there is to see in a few hours! The cultural capital of Belgium can be discovered perfectly by bike since there are various kilometers of bike lanes. Even the locals themselves prefer going everywhere by bike. Since the city has so much to offer, Baja Bikes has created different tours. We have experienced guides who will show you their city in a fun and informative way!
Bruges Sightseeing Tours: Discover the city like a local
If you are visiting this lovely city you should not miss out on one of our Bruges Sightseeing Tours! Visiting the city for the first time? Do our Highlights Tour to get a perfect overview of the most popular sights and hidden parts. Additionally, we also offer the option of doing a Private Tour, for those who prefer a more personalized tour and want to stay within their group during the excursion. No matter which tour you decide to do, there will be enough time to take pictures and your guide will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Our bike tours are safe, relaxed and fun – simply the best way to get to know this wonderful city. So what are you waiting for? Book a tour with us today!
Sightseeing in Bruges with Baja Bikes
With more than 10 years of experience organizing tours by bike and by foot, our expert tour guides understand success lies in striking the right balance between interesting facts and enjoyable fun.
Not only there to point out landmarks and to get you from A to B, our guides welcome questions and will do everything that is necessary to make your tour an experience to remember.
Don't wait any longer and book one of our Bruges Sightseeing tours today in advance to ensure availability. No reservation fee required.
Arranging a group trip? Send us a group request.
Bruges Sightseeing: Start your city trip off right with one of our tours!
Relaxed bike tours
Qualified guides
Handpicked tours & activities
24 / 7 support


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Fiddler Tim Smith
Tim Smith Biography Tim Smith was born on May 29th, 1955 in Havre de Grace, Maryland. In 1968 the family moved to Sparta, North Carolina. Tim has been playing and learning fiddle tunes since age 7. From ages 9 to 13 he studied classical music and played in the school orchestras in the state of Maryland. All the while, he continued his study and passion for fiddling, playing music with family and friends. His Father played good rhythm guitar and would accompany him on the fiddle tunes during the early years. His Mom and Dad were always encouraging and supportive of all his musical explorations. Tim has a rich musical heritage of fiddling. His Grandfather Kilby Reeves, of Sparta, NC, was an Appalachian style fiddler, reminiscent of the late fiddler Tommy Jarrell. Uncles Tom and Bert Reeves, both Bluegrass fiddlers, have also been a great source of encouragement and mentors. Kilby Reeves was an early Galax, VA fiddlers convention champion, sought after square dance fiddler and has been credited with teaching the legendary fiddler Art Wooten, who was also from Sparta, NC, to play the fiddle. After relocating to Sparta, Tim was sought after to play shows, dances, churches and fiddle contests. He played locally with several fine musicians, to name a few, such as Fred Roupe, Bill Joines, The Country Five (a country band featuring Roger Evans and the Wyatt brothers—James, Joe and Jackie). Shortly following his graduation from Alleghany High School in 1973, Tim won Lester Flatt's fiddle contest in Pinnacle, NC. The first place prize was a guest appearance with Lester Flatt and The Nashville Grass on The Grand Ole Opry and that he did, in early 1974. That great honor led Tim to a professional career in the music business. Since then, Tim has been awarded various prestigious fiddle prizes including "The North Carolina State Championship" 1st place fiddle prize in 1976, 1st place fiddle prize at the world famous "Galax Fiddlers Convention" in 1977, and "The World Championship" fiddle prize at the internationally renowned "Union Grove Fiddlers Convention" in 1978, to name a few. Tim has performed or recorded, with many notable musicians through the years. From 1979 to 1982, he performed and recorded with the "Bluegrass Cardinals". Tim performed, as a Bluegrass Boy, with "Bill Monroe and The Bluegrass Boys". He has performed, and/or, recorded with Lester Flatt and The Nashville Grass, Jim and Jesse and The Virginia Boys, The Country Gentlemen, Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, Country Gazette, Del McCoury, Tony Rice, Terry Baucom, Easter Brothers, larry Stephenson, Bill Emerson, The Churchmen, McPeake Brothers, and many others. Tim has his own record company," TRS Records" and publishing company, "Big Baby Boy Music, BMI". Currently, there are seven "Tim Smith" CD releases; "1978 World Champion Fiddler", "Favorite Pastimes", "Straight From The Heart", "Plain and Simple", "The Lonesome Blueridge", "Fiddler Tim Smith & Friends" and the latest 2015 release, "Fiddler Tim Smith & Friends-Volume 2", on the TRS Records label. Tim lives in Kernersville, NC with his wife, Anita. They have two children, Melissa and Andrew.