text:
C++ Child Process
I'm trying to make a game server wrapper file for minecraft in C++ (Has to be Linux), doesn't have to be C++ so if someone has an alternative better language to do this in I will use it.
The main thing I want to do is write it start the server and then monitor with an IsAlive() function of sorts.
I also want to be able to commit console commands to the server from the C++ application.
I have managed to get it to launch the server using "execlp" but it pauses upon running that function. because I'm using the Fork the parent process continues to run which is ok, if someone knows of a way you can send commands the the child process which will actually run in the minecraft server this will almost be perfect.
This is what I have so far...
#include <cstdlib>
may I ask what is the purpose of this wrapper of yours?
To achieve what you described, you may want to use some sort of pipe. I also think a shell script (or a language like perl) might be better suited for this.
I'm more doing this as a learning task since I enjoy playing with code and want to write a management program for my minecraft server, I know there are many out there that do this but I enjoy learning so that's the main reason.
Can I ask why Perl over C++?
I have allways found C(++) to be a bit awkward when dealing with external commands. I allways try to prefer library calls to running external programs. Whenever I am tempted to use something like system("...") in C++, I consider writing a shell script instead. Of course, it is perfectly possible in C++, so if you just want to learn, go ahead. But I believe a few lines in bash or something like that would be a much simpler solution. It of course depends on what you want your program to do. If you want to do any advanced text processing/parsing, or maybe a GUI, then for example Perl could be a good choice, being faster to write than C++, but having a lot of modules for practically anything.
I would like to say thank you for recommeding Perl, I have looked into it and it can do everything I'm after with far more ease than C++.
I have started writing this in Perl now and I'm already further than I was in C++.
I'm sure that http://www.perlmonks.org would be delighted to hear that. ;)
But it's also true enough. Scripting languages (of which Perl is not the only one, although it is one of the best) are the power-tools, and they are especially so because of the large number of tested packages of software which are available for them. So, you don't have to reinvent the wheel no matter what wheel it might be. "The language itself" is not the real focus: "everything else," is.
Agreed, I was looking into SQL in C++ as noticed it wasn't as simple as originally hope but with Perl i managed the run a query within 1 minute of starting my search on Google :)
Another thing I like is the similarity to PHP which is a language I'm very familiar too.
|All times are GMT -5. The time now is 09:25 PM.


text:
- Calendar
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This is one of a select handful of stops that will be "An Evening with Citizen Cope" - with just Clarence and his guitar throwing down a night of acoustic tunes for an up close and personal vibe you probably haven't caught in the past 5 or 6 years. If you're a Cope fan, you won't miss this one.
Citizen Cope is effortless cool, the heat of the Memphis sun, the deep melting pot of the American south, a melding of hip hop and the blues in a way so natural that you have to wonder why no one's done it before. Songs like Son's Gonna Rise, Sideways and Bullet And A Target simmer somewhere between haunted and hopeful; the kind of songs that get written because they need to be. Listening to Cope you can hear the steady stir of modern life, the voice of abundant humility and aspiration. Citizen Cope's writing is refreshingly candid; revealing him as an optimist in an often unfair world. Political, lyrical, poetic, and alive.
This fall, Citizen Cope presents a unique acoustic tour. An even more intimate side of today's most genuine songwriters. Come and see this self realized writer/performer/producer the way that he is, has been, and will be; a man and a guitar.

subset: commoncrawl


text: When we were 17 it was a very good year -- a year for Homers new dad, MacGyver gets mad, Sideshow Bobs not so bad... Another comical compilation of The Simpsons the longest-running scripted show in television history has arrived. Season 17 contains all 22 outrageous episodes, a vast repertoire of Springfieldian special features, plus a mind-blowing list of celebrity guest voices, including Alec Baldwin, Larry Hagman, William H. Macy, Frances McDormand, Rob Reiner, Susan Sarandon and Lily Tomlin, just to name a few, with additional guest voices also providing commentary including Richard Dean Anderson, Ricky Gervais, Michael York and Kelsey Grammer. Phew! Special Features: BUONGIORNO, SIMPSONS LOVERS AUDIO COMMENTARY ON EVERY EPISODE WITH WRITERS, ACTORS AND DIRECTORS DELETED SCENES WITH COMMENTARY THE GREAT ONES LET THERE BE MUSIC LIVE! ITS THE SIMPSONS BONUS EPISODE MULTI-ANGLE ANIMATION SHOWCASE SPECIAL LANGUAGE FEATURE ORIGINAL SKETCHESCheck stock and price


text:
Scantily clad
Instead of warning us about the next Enron or what's going on at JP Morgan — or even what to do if Greece does actually come off the euro, The Wall St. Journal is wasting ink printing fiction about herbal supplements.
The article claims that scientific evidence to support health benefits of herbal supplements is "scant."
Then the article blunders. It directs readers to medlineplus.gov for details about herbal supplement research. But you have to wonder if the author of the article actually visited that site. Because when you get there, "scant" is not the word that comes to mind.
More like "abundant."
Superior grades
Did you hear that Echinacea is useless in fighting colds?
Very likely, you did. That's one of the favorite lines parroted by lazy reporters.
But when you go to Medline Plus, a chart titled "Uses based on scientific evidence" tells a different story.
Echinacea scores a grade of B — which indicates "Good scientific evidence for this use" — in these two categories…
- Prevention of upper respiratory infections (adults and children)
- Treatment of upper respiratory infections (adults)
How about St. John's wort? "No better than placebo," is the phrase you'll see repeatedly. And yet, Medline Plus gives St. John's wort a grade of A — "Strong scientific evidence for this use" — for treating "mild-to-moderate depressive disorder."
To be fair, the WSJ article does mention these successes…
- Chamomile extract is better than placebo in reducing anxiety
- Milk thistle is effective in disrupting hepatitis C virus
But ginkgo biloba, we're told, "does not prevent heart attack, stroke, or cancer, or stem memory loss."
Okay. But before you ditch your ginkgo supplement, check these ginkgo grades…
- A, for treating dementia
- A, for relieving claudication (painful legs from clogged arteries)
- B, for improving blood flow to the brain to improve concentration and reduce confusion
Want more? The abundance continues!
Red yeast rice gets an A for lowering LDL and triglycerides.
Pcynogenol gets two B grades in these categories…
- Treating asthma
- Relieving chronic venous insufficiency (leg swelling and varicose veins)
Ginseng gets three B grades in these categories…
- Boosting immune function
- Lowering blood sugar in type 2 diabetics
- Heart healthy antioxidant effects (such as reduction of LDL oxidation)
I could go on and on, because Medline Plus goes on and on. And not just for herbs. Vitamins and minerals are included in the grading system too.
Admit it, WSJ. The "scant" days are over.
"Herbal Supplements Face New Scrutiny" Laura Landro, Wall St. Journal, 9/14/10, online.wsj.com
"Herbs and supplements" Medline Plus, Medlineplus.gov
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Interview with pinksheep* from PMS Asterisk
Arguably the most popular female DotA team in the world, PMS* will be present at ESTC from next Thursday to compete for the third year in a row. Speaking up on behalf of the Singaporean team is player Dawn "pinksheep*" Yang.
PMS* Asterisk's
What is PMS's roster for ESTC and what are the roles of each player?
-"Our current main five are PMS furryfish*, PMS yan*, PMS kimchi*, PMS msjovial and myself, PMS pinksheep* - furryfish and kimchi are on support, yan and jovial are on semi-carries and I'm playing hard carry."
What has been happening recently for PMS?
-"We just got picked up by Razer, launched a new set of wallpapers for 2011 and we're currently in the process of revamping our website (teamasterisk.sg). In addition to that, we're also part of the thought leadership forum in Singapore, called Be The Change. We've also been invited to a gaming party to beta test Diablo 3 this coming Saturday.
Just on a side note: we're fighting for the Singapore government to recognise eSports at the Be The Change forum. Ah yes, and we have a manager on board."
There'll be another Chinese female team Eve at ESTC. How much do you know about them? Are you looking forward to playing against them?
-"If I am not mistaken - we played against Mint from Eve before when we went to the Iron Ladies tournament in Shanghai last January. I'm not sure what handle she's using now, but she was easily one of the strongest back then.
And yes we're looking forward to playing against them - it'd be interesting to see if they will adopt the strategies that China guy teams usually deploy."
Yes, the top Chinese have decided to give this tourmanent a pass. In your opinion, which of the participating teams will be your strongest opponent at ESTC? Why?
-"It's a bit hard to say. Malaysian teams have always been quite strong in the region but lately you see teams like Mski and Trust surprising everyone at tournaments like The International.
I'd put my money on MuFc and possibly the USA/EU team - having come such a long way I'm sure they'll fight tooth and nail to place first."
Will you be making your trip to Thailand with the MYM guys? What is your team's relationship with the players?
-"We're not sure if AEON and/or MYM are taking the same flights as us - we haven't checked, but they might be. Last year, we met some of the old Scythe members on the plane.
Well most of us are friends and we do play together in mixed teams pretty often."
I have to ask, what's your itenary like for ESTC? Are you planning any shopping sprees?
-"Haha. Good one. We've mapped out day one purely for shopping. We're landing early - about noon time on Wednesday - and then it's straight to lunch and Platinum mall.
furryfish, msjovial and myself will be flying with near-empty bags - well, just pyjamas and we're intending to buy all our clothes there."
It's your third year participating in this event, right? (Yup.) How do you feel? What's the biggest change personally for you and the team since your first year?
-"I think one of the biggest challenges for DotA teams is the instability of the roster. Fortunately we've been quite blessed and at least for the past year we've only had one change (w4ndeRz* to msjovial*). When a new player comes on board, team dynamics will always change and it puts quite a lot of stress on the rest of us.
Personally I've been having a bit of a struggle managing both competitive gaming, my career and my personal life. Especially this year - I've been put on a few big projects at work and the stress has been quite overwhelming. It has definitely impacted my performance in the team."
What are your goals for the event this time?
-"We intend to play our best and have a blast - it looks to be one of the last few tournaments for DotA 1. Dota 2 might be a whole different ball game - which means training again nearly from scratch!"
Talking about Dota 2, what are your thoughts? Do you think it will attract more female gamers?
-"Gaming has been picking up amongst girls. And even though there aren't many female DotA teams out there, we do know an increasing number of girls who play the game.
But for DotA 2, I think the uptake will be a lot more gradual - firstly because it's paid to play, which increases the barriers of entry. And secondly DotA isn't a game that's as easy to pick up as say, L4D."
Yeah. But I don't suppose blowing the head of a zombie will appeal as much to female gamers.
-"Well! I think it matters less how the zombie looks than hitting them. I honestly think the success of L4D is the ease at which people manage to hit targets (without having to try very hard).
To a casual gamer - a kill is a shot of adrenalin. So there."
Does that also apply to you too as a female gamer ("a kill is a shot of adrenalin"), or do you find our excitement from playing DotA somewhere else?
-"Oh I always enjoy going in for the kill. That's why my team put me on carry. But I must agree that friends add a lot more fun to the game - especially when it's a game that I've been playing for nearly five years."
Lastly, are there any other LAN competitions you're looking to attend this year? Like you said, it may be the last DotA 1 tournament you'll ever go to.
-"SMM would be the other tournament that we should be attending."
I'm sure Tobi is dying to see you and the girls. Is there anything you would like to say to him?
-"Are you sure? We meet him all the time at tournaments and stuff - plus he comments on our Facebook posts pretty frequently! (And vice versa.)
Nowhere in the world's too far with Facebook. Maybe you should ask him if he's sick of seeing us."
I will. Any shoutouts?
-"Well to my lovely teammates <3, my DotA friends (you know who you are) and all our fans at ESTC: we can't wait to meet you guys!"


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Pakistan's judiciary threatens government stability
Tuesday, October 12, 2010; 6:29 PM
ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN - After this country's then-military dictator deposed the Supreme Court chief justice in 2007, a boisterous movement of protesting lawyers took to the streets and ushered in the return of democracy. Now that same court may be poised to bring about a premature end to Pakistan's elected government.
Since its December judgment striking down an amnesty that shielded President Asif Ali Zardari and other officials from old criminal allegations, the top court has pressed the government on corruption, in particular a dated money-laundering case against Zardari. The stakes have risen as repeated government delays have stoked frustration within the army and the political opposition. Another showdown is scheduled for Wednesday, when the court could hold the prime minister in contempt or indicate that it will reconsider Zardari's presidential immunity from prosecution.
The standoff has cemented the Supreme Court's position as a central player in Pakistan's nascent democracy. But it has also highlighted questions about the solidity of that system.
To many here, the drama represents progress: In a nation with a history of military coups, an independent judiciary has emerged as the major threat to the unpopular government. To others, including some government critics and lawyers' movement stalwarts, the court and its chief justice are on a warpath against Zardari that threatens a fragile democracy that needs an elected government - even a bad one - to complete a term in office.
"This judge and the court have embarked upon politics," said lawyer Khurram Latif Khosa, whose father, also a lawyer, advises Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani. "The lawyers who were chanting slogans in their favor are now burning effigies of their idols."
Pakistan's stability is vital to the United States, which depends on this South Asian nation to support the war in Afghanistan and combat a vigorous Taliban insurgency on its own soil. U.S. officials express concern that the government's foot-dragging is weakening its credibility and distracting it from urgent issues such as the fallout from recent flooding and a collapsing economy.
Some analysts say the standoff is unlikely to imperil the democratic order. They call it just another act in the performance art of Pakistani politics, in which protagonists jockey for power while the masses await leadership that will improve their lives. The government insists that the cases against Zardari were politically motivated and that a hostile media are sensationalizing the court's wrangling.
From 2007 to 2009, scores of lawyers rallied for the restoration of Chief Justice Iftikhar Mohammed Chaudhry. He was removed by military dictator Pervez Musharraf but not restored by Zardari's civilian government until several months into its administration.
The lawyers' movement dissolved after it achieved its goal, and the lower judiciary is still plagued by complaints about corruption, sluggishness and bias. But the Supreme Court has surfaced as one of Pakistan's most respected institutions. After decades of deference to presidents, prime ministers and, especially, military rulers, it has doggedly pursued cases involving the Zardari government.
"That the problems of governance were not highlighted in the past seems to suggest that the court is more aggressive on a democratic government than it was on an authoritarian government," said Munir Malik, a former president of the Supreme Court Bar Association. "But that's the way to move forward."
The court has also gained popularity by regularly taking up the grievances of ordinary citizens, often after Chaudhry has read about them in the newspaper. Small and thickly mustached, Chaudhry ranks in polls as one of the nation's most esteemed figures.
"He is the only person standing firm against the unlawful practices of the government," said Ibrahim Rasheed, among a group of lawyers sipping tea recently at the Islamabad bar association office.


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Touching Base: A Message from the Chief July 29, 2012
Dear Community Members and Department Personnel:
For your Information:
Registration is now open for the City of Pasadena's popular After School Adventure Program. Boys and girls ages 5 to 12 years old can join the after-school fun beginning August 22. The program is designed to provide affordable, flexible and convenient child care for only $25 per week at Pasadena Unified School District elementary school sites. Walk-in registration can be completed by parents or Guardians at Robinson Park Recreation Center, 1081 North Fair Oaks, or on line at www.cityofpasadena.net/reserve. Registration information is also available from Darrell Walker at (626) 744-7530 or by email at email@example.com. (Source: William Boyer, PIO).
Carmageddon II for the 405 Freew3ay announced for Saturday and Sunday, September 29-30, and will have a significant impact on traffic in the general area. If you are planning to travel to the West Los Angeles area, you might consider learning more about carmageddon II. For more information, please visit: http://thesource.metro.net/2012/07/19/carmageddon-ii-announced/. (Source: The Source Transportation News & Views).
Save the Date:
Parks after Dark Program runs July 7 through August 24, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. The program is a collaborative effort between Pasadena Human Services & Recreation, the Pasadena Police Department, and the Pasadena Transportation Department. Please see the attached flyer for more information (Source: Human Services & Recreation).
Pasadena Councilman Chris Holden is hosting his Annual Community Block Party on August 4, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., between El Molino Avenue and Los Robles Avenue (North of Mountain Street). The block party is well-known for great food, Robin's BBQ Lemonade, entertainment, and other great activities. Participants and sponsors include: YWCA, OBA Inc., Levitt Pavilion, Social Security, Pasadena Police and Fire Departments, Chamber of Commerce, the City of Pasadena, Northwest Programs, and RBOC. For information please call, (626) 744-4738 (Source: Pasadena Councilman Chris Holden).
The Pasadena Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People is hosting the 27th McKnight Williams Awards Dinner on September 13, at the Pasadena Hilton Hotel. Reception starts at 6:00 p.m. followed by dinner and the program at 7:00 p.m. Tickets will be held at the door, please RSVP by August 30, 2012. (Source: Pasadena Branch NAACP)
The YWCA Pasadena-Foothill Valley is presenting its Women for Racial Justice Breakfast on October 15, 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. at the Pasadena Hilton Hotel. For tables, individual tickets, or sponsorships opportunities, please call (626) 296-8433, or contact Crystal Hernandez. For more information about the YWCA or programs offered by this valued community partner, please visit www.ywca-pasadena.org. Tamika Farr is the Executive Director and the facility is located at 1200 North Fair Oaks Avenue.
El Centro de Accion Social's Annual Fundraiser is scheduled for Thursday, October 18 at the Pasadena Westin Hotel. The reception will be from 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. followed by dinner and program from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. (Source: El Centro de Accion Social).
Our Community:
On July 13, Commander John Perez and I attended the Latino Media Conference and Expo, which was held at the Pasadena Convention Center. The conference was very well attended by local, national and international media personalities. National Hispanic Media President& CEO Alex Nogales and Director of Operations Brenda Rivas coordinate our participation. The conference featured more than 50 media and entertainment information booths, musical performances, celebrity emcees and ABC's Cierra Ramirez. The conference is the signature event of the National Hispanic Media Coalition. NHMC is a non-partisan, nonprofit, media advocacy and civil rights organization established in 1986 in Los Angeles. NHMC is headquartered in Pasadena. For more information on the work of NHMC, please visit www.nhmc.org.
On July 20, I received an email from La Pintoresca and Villa Parke Branch Manager Diane Walker commending Save Our Sons (SOS) panel members (Ricky Pickens, Techumseh Shackelford, Brenda Ingram, Lisa Wilson and me). You may recall Diane host a community forum focusing on issues facing Pasadena youth.
On July 22, I participated in the Grand Fondo Giro d Italia Bicycle Ride. More than 700 cyclists gathered at the footsteps of City Hall for the mass start. The ride was well organized and featured three distances (25, 67, 94 miles). Legendary bicyclist Francesco Moser, Mayor Bill Bogaard, and I were positioned just behind the pace car. As the riders rolled out we enjoyed a moderate pace to the Rose Bowl, where the cyclists were turn loose. The long course was particularly challenging in part because of the heat and elevation. I finished the route in about 6 hours and 50 minutes. Somewhere around the 60 mile mark I saw Pasadena Fire Department PIO Lisa Derderian. The Giro d'Italia was founded in 1909 and is highly competitive, three-week "Grand Tour" race throughout Italy. You are welcome to visit www.grandondogiro.com for more information about the Giro.
On July 22, several Pasadena Police employees attended the 5th Annual Armenian Identify Festival, which was held at Victory Park. The event was well organized and attended. The Armenian Festival was coordinated by Chris Chahinian and the Armenian Community Coalition and featured traditional art, food and entertainment. Elected officials included Mayor Bill Bogaard, Councilwomen Jacque Robinson, U.S. Congresswomen Judy Chu, and a field representative from U.S. Congressman Adam Schiff's office. Judy and I provided a few brief remarks acknowledging the extraordinary accomplishments of the Armenian culture and community. Pasadena Police employees working at the event included Police Specialists Laura Morris, Michele White, Antonio Ambrozevicius, and Volunteer Haroution Kazarian and Erika Reynosa.
On July 24, Commander John Perez and I met with the Latino Pastors at the Villa Parke Community Center. We discussed a number of public safety issues and then the pastors participated in a tour of the facility, which was hosted by Community Services Supervisor Rozanne Ananto and Administrator Horace Wormely.
On July 24, Lieutenant Phlunte Riddle, Northwest Manager Lola Osborn, Human Services & Recreation Supervisor Marcus Lee, and I met regarding "Free Haircut Day," which is scheduled for August 25 at Robinson Park. Free Haircut Day is a community event where school supplies, haircuts (for young men and women) are provided to Pasadena youth to help prepare them for the school year. More information is forth coming.
On July 24, I had the opportunity to lecture to a cohort of Master students from California State University, Northridge enrolled in the Public Administration Program. The cohort was very engaging asking questions about local government, law enforcement and public service.
On July 25, I had the opportunity to speak at the Pasadena Rotary Club. The weekly meeting was well attended and the audience included Assistant City Manager
On July 25, Commander John Perez and I attended the San Gabriel Valley Police Officers' Association meeting, which was held at Brookside Club House. Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca was the keynote speaker. The sheriff talked about public safety, crime, and social disorder. The meeting was well attended by law enforcement throughout the region.
Pasadena's Finest:
On July 10, I received notice that Pasadena Vice-Mayor Margaret McAustin commended Police Specialists Arlene Ramos for the outstanding service she provided during a Historical Highlands Neighborhood Association meeting.
On July 17, I received an email from a community member who attended the Pasadena Youth Forum, which was held at Jackie Robinson Center (JRC). The community member said the forum was well attended and addresses contemporary issues facing young people in Pasadena.
On July 19, I received a letter from a community member commending Pasadena Police Corporal Paul McKinney for his professionalism during a traffic enforcement stop. According to the author, Paul issued a warning for a non-functioning stop lamp on her vehicle. The community member wrote, "… I also wanted to let you know that I've had it [the stop lamp] replaced and now it functions well! Thank you for your politeness…"
On June 20, I received a copy of an email from Historical Highlands Neighborhood Block Coordinator Anne Leach commending Pasadena Police Officer Rodney Saunders and Arlene Ramos for their professionalism during a community meeting.
On July 23, I received an email from Pasadena Police Commander Lisa Rosales commending Police Specialists Susana Castro for her dedication to duty. Lisa needed assistance with a project and reached out to Susana, who on her day off, provided assistance without question. Susana is known for consistently checking and responding to emails or other request on weekends and non-business hours.
On July 25, Assistant Secretary of State William Brownfield, City Manager Michael Beck, Adam Schiff's Representative Elizabeth Vuna and I participated in a press conference to highlight the signing of an MOU between the Pasadena Police Department and the U.S. Department of State. Secretary Brownfield and I signed the MOU in the Pasadena City Council Chambers. The document creates a relationship between the two departments allowing Pasadena Police Officers the opportunity to teach in foreign countries. Pasadena Police Sergeant Eduardo Calatayud just returned from a week long deployment in Jamaica where he instructed in police tactics and less lethal munitions. The State Department pays the salaries of state and local officers while they are deployed. Details of the programs and exchanges are available at: www.state.gov/j/inl/civ/index.htm. The press conference was covered by the media: www.pasadenanow.com/main/pasadena-police-u-s-state-dept-sign-partnership-agreement and www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2012/07/195428.htm.
On July 27, Pasadena Police Officers Anthony Riley and Veronica Burris proved a safety lecture to young campers at the Washington Park Youth Day Camp. The program is facilitated by Pasadena Human Services & Recreation and campers range in age from 5 – 12. Anthony and Veronica focused their remarks on personal safety tips. Human Services & Recreation Administrator Horace Wormely coordinated the lecture.
On July 28, Police Specialist Laura Morris, Nick Ortiz and Antonio Ambrozevicius taught children bicycle safety at Jefferson Park. Pasadena Volunteers Robert Matonti and Robert Calzada assisted in licensing the children's bicycles. The bicycle program is part of the department's Kid's Safety Academy, which is sponsored by the Pasadena Police Foundation.
On July 28, Deborah K. Sanchez hosted her 2nd Annual Silent Heroes Luncheon to honor the spouses of Pasadena Police officers and civilian employees. The luncheon was held at the Tournament House, which was the perfect setting. KNBC 4 Weather Forecaster Fritz Coleman served as emcee, City Manager Michael Beck provided a few remarks, and Judge Lance Ito delivered the keynote speech, which focused on disaster preparedness. Facility tours were provided by T.R. Docents and Pasadena Magazine and the Outlook covered the event. Supporter of Silent Heroes included: the Tournament of Roses, San Antonio Winery (Steve Riboli), Ema's Bakery (Ann Hamilton), Phoenix Decorating, (Chris Lofthouse), and Cordon Bleu. Under the direction of Pasadena Police Corporal Glenn Thompson Explorer Post 19 posted the colors and led the audience in the Pelage of Allegiance. The event was truly a special opportunity to acknowledge the spouses who support our first responders.
Critical Incidents:
On July 18 a murder occurred in the City of Inglewood. IPD detectives responded to the crime scene and began their investigation. The preliminary investigation determined the suspect murdered his wife shooting her several times. IPD detectives later identified the suspect and requested the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Pacific Southwest Regional Furtive Task Force, which includes detectives from the Pasadena Police Department. On July 19, the task force developed information that the murder suspect, who was considered armed and dangerous, was in the Long Beach area. Task Force detectives located the suspect and arrested him without incident. Inglewood Police officers responded to the incident and took custody of the suspect.
On July 21 at about 7:30 p.m. Pasadena Police officers responded to a business located in the 700 block of North Fair Oaks Avenue regarding an armed robbery that just occurred. On arrival the suspects were gone. Despite an extensive search in the area, PPD officers did not locate the suspects. If you have information about this incident, please call the Pasadena Police Department at (626) 744-4241.
On July 24 at about 8:45 a.m. Pasadena Police officers responded to a call of injured person in the 500 block of Arroyo Parkway. The scene was extremely confusing in part because the original caller said the victim has been shot. PPD officers located the victim who was bleeding and unconscious. As it turn out the victim was suffering from a head laceration. The victim was transported to a local area hospital for medical treatment. Our preliminary investigation suggests the victim may have been intoxicated.
On July 24 at about 9:00 a.m. Pasadena Police officers responded to a major traffic collision in the 3100 block of Colorado Blvd. For unknown reasons the driver lost control of his vehicle and slammed into a tree. The driver, who was not wearing a seatbelt, sustained major injuries and was transported to a local area hospital for medical treatment. The Pasadena Police Major Collision Team responded to investigate the incident.
On July 24 at about 12:35 p.m. Pasadena Police officers responded to the 1200 block of Yocum Street regarding a male adult threating to kill himself and another person. Officers arrived and attempted to contact the suspect however he ran away when he observed PPD officers. Officers Victor Cass, Craig Blumenthal and Steve Arcand chased the suspect for a short distance on foot and arrested him without further incident.
On July 24 at about 1:12 p.m. Pasadena Police officers responded to the area of New York Drive and Sierra Madre Villa Blvd. regarding a single vehicle collision. Our preliminary investigation revealed the driver (25 year old female) lost control of her vehicle while traveling southbound on New York Drive striking the curb, which caused the vehicle to flip over. The driver was transported to a local area hospital with serious injuries. The Pasadena Police Major Collision Team responded to investigate. The incident was covered in the local media: www.pasadenasun.com/the626now/tn-pas-0725-eaton-canyon-car-flip,0,4318736.story.
On July 24 at about 8:26 p.m. Pasadena Police officers responded to the area of Raymond and Tremont regarding shots fired call. On arrival officers checked the area for victims, witnesses or other evidence to determine the veracity of the call with negative results. Later, however, a male adult was dropped off at a local area hospital suffering from a gunshot wound in the buttocks. PPD officers responded to the hospital to interview the victim; however he was extremely uncooperative. If you have information about this incident, please call the Pasadena Police Department at (626) 744-4545.
On July 25 in the morning hours, the Pasadena Police Department, Special Enforcement Section (SES) assisted State Parole Agents with compliance check throughout Pasadena. The checkers were part of a county wide program called, "Operation Guardian," which focused on active parolees. Approximately 69 parolees were arrested and the seizure of dozens of guns, knives and swords were made by state and local officials. The checks were covered by the local media: www.pasadenastarnews.com/news/ci_21159224/massive-countywide-parole-sweep-targets-gang-members.
Phillip L. Sanchez Chief of Police Pasadena Police Department 207 N. Garfield Avenue Pasadena, CA 91101 (626) 744-4545 Mission First, People Always


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Allegiant Air and Provo are celebrating that airline's inaugural flight between Provo and Los Angeles International Airport this week by hosting a ticket giveaway and a free "movie in a hangar" on Wednesday evening.
People who arrive at the airport between 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. that day dressed in their best black tie, red-carpet attire will be entered into a drawing for a weekend stay for four at the Clarion Hotel Anaheim Resort, including airfare.
All ages will be able to enter the drawing, but the winner must have a guardian age 21 or older to claim the prize and travel.


text: This highly functional Twin Pure Serving Spoon by Zwilling J.A. Henckels is designed by architect Matteo Thun. Beauty elegance, and seamless satin finished 18/10 stainless steel come together to create a utensil that is not only easy on the eyes, but the hands as well. Rounded bolster like handle ensures a comfortable feel in the hand, eyelet makes for easy storage. Serve your family with class. - 37515-000 - A65-3 - Q 2 - 24.95


text:
Terra Linda High School will hold an eighth grade parent night at 7 p.m. Feb. 4 in the school's performance hall, 320 Nova Albion Way in San Rafael.
The event will include a demonstration of the school's course offerings and systems for online grading, attendance and college planning.
Send us your news: We want more news items from Marin's cities and towns. Email them to our City Desk at email@example.com, mail them to City Desk, Marin Independent Journal, 4000 Civic Center Drive, San Rafael, CA 94903, or fax them to 415-382-7209. For more information about towns in Marin, visit the IJ's website at marinij.com.


text:
|Sport, 1 pitch, 100'
|YDS: 5.10d French: 6b+ Ewbanks: 21 UIAA: VII+ ZA: 21 British: E3 5b [details]
|Rick Thompson, Sam Davidson & Pat Thompson
|Page Views:
|Submitted By:
|Jeff Lockyer on Nov 8, 2001
|Comments on Critical Morass
|Add Comment
|Show which comments —
Comments displayed oldest to newest — Skip Ahead to the Most Recent Dated Aug 1, 2015
By Old Fart aka Dave Bohn
May 5, 2002
|A great route that will really "keep you on your toes" quite literally! No perceptible "crux" but fairly sustained from the 1st to 4th bolt. The headwall will also keep your interest. I'll stick with Rick's rating on this one too. However, because the anchors are set at least 20-30 ' past the headwall on 4th class terrain with a perfect ledge available on top of the headwall to call it quits, I'm going to say only 2 stars in my book. Any thoughts on the anchor placement, Rick? Also, even with a 60m rope, I just made it back down to a ledge where I could untie and walk off (totally safe). So, your belayer needs to stay on the ball as you get near the ground.
By mary
Jun 2, 2003
|This climb is great.. - balancy, sustained, beautiful exposure - you name it... but yeah - after the bulge it kinda gets dumb and 5.6ish and a little too much rope drag- still worth it though... and a 60 m rope will barely be enough to lower, but it's an ez step off from the 1st bolt if you run out of rope... all four of the climbs on this wall are very good... the 9 next to it is also quite good, and the ez climb on the arete is a gorgeous photo op with Lily Lake in the background
By Dougald MacDonald
May 24, 2004
rating: 5.10c 6b 20 VII 20 E2 5b
Very nice route, but the anchor is currently very unsafe. The right-hand bolt is extremely loose -- it wiggles significantly even when the nut is hand-tightened as much as possible -- and the left bolt might also be loose. Be careful! (We were concerned enough to downclimb to the anchor on the route to the left before lowering.)
Given the comments from people above, perhaps if this anchor is replaced because of the bad bolt(s) it should be moved lower...
By Adrian Hill
Jun 7, 2004
rating: 5.10c 6b 20 VII 20 E2 5b
|Excellent pitch, but definitely not 11a. Probably 10c/d. Apart from the anchors, all bolts are placed exactly where you want them. Following Dougald's comment, I clipped the last protection bolt then angled down to the anchor on the left, to avoid the Critical Morass anchor. The party after us went to the CM anchor, and said that it didn't seem too bad; one bolt slightly loose. Maybe someone did some repairs. Either way, a pitch not to be missed.
By Joel Larner
From: Fort Collins, CO
Jun 24, 2005
|The anchor seems OK as of 6/23/05. Not fantastic, but fine. The bolts are a touch loose, so the hangers can move a little (I'd rather they were tight), but they seemed safe to us. We used them without concern.
By logan johnson
From: West Copper, Co
Jun 16, 2006
|As of 6-16 the bolts/anchors all seemed perfectly safe. Good route, nice beginning.
By Christina kalb
From: Boulder, CO
Jun 2, 2008
rating: 5.10c 6b 20 VII 20 E2 5b
|Great Route!!! Balancy, with a great variety of moves. I would recommend a mantle of some sorts to get past the crux!
By W. Spaller
Oct 22, 2008
|Not as good looking as the Edge of Time, but much better climbing.
By Tom Kelley
Aug 24, 2011
rating: 5.10b 6a+ 19 VII- 19 E2 5b
|Good enough route if you're in the area but not spectaclar.
By Paul Donald Andrews
From: Nederland, Co.
Mar 31, 2012
rating: 5.10a/b 6a+ 19 VI+ 19 E2 5b
|Real good route. Had no trouble with the crux, a fun left foot high step and right hand mantle move. The headwall was interesting as I took a little time figuring out the best sequence for me. My 60 m rope made it to the ground no problem.
By David Cooper
From: Annapolis, MD
Jun 5, 2012
rating: 5.10a 6a 18 VI+ 18 E1 5a
|Well equipped. Super friction. 10a, no harder. Good quality moves through lower crux section and then higher up through seam.
By George Bracksieck
Jul 24, 2013
I think this is at least 10c. It felt greasy in the hot sun. I didn't find any crimps above the mantel "shelf" -- just the long reach to the steeply sloping sloper, which looks better than it really is.
Installing a lower anchor would be good for the reasons mentioned above and to have an anchor that is NOT shared with the route to the right.
By Evan Gohring
Jul 4, 2015
rating: 5.10b/c 6b 20 VII 20 E2 5b
|Great route! Second best at Jurassic Park, behind Andrology. Between bolts 2 and 4 are very fun, balancy moves on thin slab. Bolts are placed perfectly.
By Emil Briggs
Aug 1, 2015
rating: 5.10b/c 6b 20 VII 20 E2 5b
|I led this a couple of years ago on a cool day and thought it was really soft for 10d. Led it again yesterday on a hot and sunny day and thought 10d was reasonable.


text:
PRZOOM - /newswire/ -
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Photos of eVgo charging station, Nissan Leaf and available at 1 pm. CST at GreenMountain.com/.
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We believe that electric vehicles are an excellent choice for drivers who want to make a difference for the environment. And the key to making EVs emissions-free is to charge them with 100 percent renewable energy. Green Mountain created Pollution Free EV, to enable our Texas residential customers to power both their EVs and homes with wind, minimize their emissions, and further the development of renewable energy statewide, said Helen Brauner, senior vice president of Marketing, Green Mountain Energy Company. By becoming the first electricity provider in Texas to develop a pollution-free electricity product specifically for EV drivers, we are encouraging and facilitating the early adoption of plug-in electric vehicles, while continuing to change the way power is made.
As an eVgo customer and Green Mountains first Pollution Free EV customer, George Cook, a Katy, Texas homeowner, will become one of the states first drivers of a 100 percent emissions-free Texas-wind powered vehicle. eVgo recently installed a Smart Home Charging Dock in the Cook garage. The clean energy to power Cooks home charging station as well as the rest of his house will be provided by Green Mountain. Additionally, through the network of extremely fast public charging stations eVgo is installing throughout Houston, Mr. Cook will be able to travel with complete range confidence for a single low monthly cost.
It is totally cool to be one of the first people in Texas to drive a 100 percent wind-powered electric vehicle and to be able to charge it from home through my eVgo charging station, said Mr. Cook, who has been a Green Mountain customer for over four years. Now, not only will my house be powered by wind, but my car will be too. Plus, I will save money on gas for my commute to work and continuing to support the development of more wind energy in Texas.
Pollution FreeSM EV
Pollution Free EV, Green Mountains newest 100% pollution-free product generated solely from Texas wind, was created to encourage the use of EVs. It is a Reliable Rate product that guarantees customers who drive an EV a special rate for 12 months. Pollution Free EV is now available to any residential customer in Texas competitive electric market, including any existing Green Mountain customer, whose primary vehicle is a plug-in electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. To demonstrate eligibility the customer must provide a valid copy of their auto insurance showing that they currently drive an EV. To learn more about Green Mountain Pollution Free EV, visit greenmountain.com/EV or call Green Mountain at 1.866.301.3120.
By becoming the first Texas REP to partner with eVgo, Green Mountain is offering Texas EV drivers the first complete home charging and fueling solution in Texas. When a customer signs up for eVgos Complete Solution, they will receive a Smart Home Charging Dock, which enables customers to charge their EV or plug-in hybrid at home:
It communicates with the grid and turns drivers homes into grid-connected smart charging hubs.
It is covered by a three-year service agreement.
Its 240 volt AC power provides up to 24 miles of range for every hour it is plugged in. Typical drivers can easily charge their cars overnight at home.
It is a doorway to a network of charging stations conveniently located across Houston and, in time, the entire Texas Triangle.
eVgo is focused on building an electric vehicle infrastructure that provides the range confidence needed to enable widespread electric vehicle adoption, help clean the air we breathe and give us greater independence from foreign oil, said Arun Banskota, President of NRG Energys Electric Vehicle Services group that is building the eVgo ecosystem. We are excited to have Green Mountain be the first REP to officially join eVgo in promoting the adoption of EVs.
We are excited to be the first electricity provider in Texas to partner with eVgo and to offer customers a variety of options to fit their needs including a complete home charging and fueling solution for their electric vehicles, added Brauner. We want to make driving and charging an EV as easy as possible for customers, while enabling EV drivers to power both their homes and EVs with Texas wind.
About eVgo
eVgo (evgonetwork.com), which is owned by NRG Energy, Inc., is creating the nations first comprehensive, privately-funded, competitive, and sustainable electric vehicle ecosystem of home charging stations and high-powered, fast charging stations strategically placed at retailers and work places across an eVgo city to give electric vehicle drivers complete range confidence and convenience. eVgo has developed a comprehensive charging solution that is ideally suited for its customers and designed to make the use of electric vehicles convenient and easy in eVgo cities.
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Agency / Source: Green Mountain Energy Company
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Traffic Booster: [/] Quick PRZOOM - Press & Newswire Visibility Checker
Distribution / Indexing: [+] / [Company listed above is a registered member of our network. Content made possible by PRZOOM / PRTODAY indexing services]


text: Hi! N.angle(z) returns nan if either z.real or z.imag is nan; presently, this is not documented in its docstring, but it is traceable to the low-level c functions N.angle uses to do its work, so I'm assuming it's a bug in the doc, not in the code, i.e., is intended behavior, correct? DG -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mail.scipy.org/pipermail/scipy-dev/attachments/20100303/815a5ac3/attachment.html


text:
edit: the note says: "Bill - Thanks for always betting on Duke! - Gearbox Software"Having initially pre-ordered Duke Nukem Forever in 2001 and held on to the receipt all this time, slash000 is a patient, patient man who never stopped believing in Duke.
In recognition of his unwavering faith, Gearbox is proud to reveal that slash000 has been bestowed with an assortment of Duke Nukem Forever goods including the 10th Duke Nukem Forever Balls of Steel Edition ever produced (complete with certificate of authenticity) signed by the development team, a Logitech G19 keyboard, and more:
* Duke Nukem Forever PC Balls of Steel Edition #10, Signed by the Development Team
* Duke Nukem Headshot, Signed by the Development Team
* Logitech G19 Keyboard with GamePanel LCD Screen (Supported by Duke Nukem Forever PC)
* Duke Nukem Forever Titty City Pint Glass
* Duke Nukem Forever Titty City Shot Glass
* Duke Nukem Forever First Access Club Shot Glass
* Duke Nukem Forever First Access Club Mouse Pad
* Duke Nukem Forever Belt Buckle
* Duke Nukem Forever "Steroids"
* Duke Nukem Forever Mini-Lithographs
* Duke Nukem Forever gamerART Aluminum Mouse Pad
* Duke Nukem Forever Hoody
* Duke Burger T-Shirt
* Hail to the King! T-Shirt
* Come Get Some T-Shirt
* Gearbox Swag Bag
Thanks for your support, slash000! Always bet on Duke!
[/size]yalborap, about 4chan wrote:I have stared into Satan's asshole, and it fucking winked at me.
Cardboard Tube wrote: »Be excellent to each other you stupid cunts.
Kuribo's Jew wrote: »scarab you have mental problems
PolloDiablo wrote: »Ok, that's the classiest act I've ever seen from a dev.
The PR guy was fired for saying it. The blacklisting in general still takes place.
And really, it was more about their early defensive posturing about not caring about review scores and whatnot.
JihadJesus wrote: »
JihadJesus wrote: »
The worst part is that we can't make new lists of all the shit that's come out since DNF started development, although the current list is pretty colossal.
mere_immortal wrote: »What was in the Gearbox swag bag?
TychoCelchuuu wrote: »What are the steroids? Are the steroids bubblegum?
They're mints, practically the same as Altoids (maybe they are Altoids for all I know).TychoCelchuuu wrote: »What are the steroids? Are the steroids bubblegum?
That was what I was thinking. Bubblegum for ass kicking is almost like a steroid.


text:
My right grate (the HOT side) burned thru. I pulled the coal and ashes out of that side hoping to slide in new parts without the stove hardly noticing.
It is looking like ALL the iron might have to come out, grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.
Does anyone know if I can sneak in a new grate and holder? Out that front plate that the grates stick through, maybe?
Help, it's really cold! (of course)


text:
Cinnamon has been cultivated for centuries. The tree's fragrant bark is removed and, when dried, forms the cinnamon sticks we see in many preparations. Auroshikha Cinnamon incense is a blend of cinnamon bark and almond. On a cold morning this cinnamon incense warms up the atmosphere with its vitality. Or when there is something sluggish in the air, a lit stick can be carried around the room to reliven the energy.
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California's Proposition 65 Warning: May This item contains chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. Reference by California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) at: www.oehha.ca.gov/prop65/prop65_list/Newlist.html.
Light the incense and feel the gentle and soothing presence of nature.
Auroshikha True To Nature Incense Sticks, African Violet - 10 Gm
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Arm And Hammer Sensitive Multi-Protect Orajel Toothpaste - 4.5 Oz
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Chore Boy Copper Scrubber Pads - 1 Ea


text:
Sport: Basketball
Class: Senior
Claim to Fame: Davis is one of a handful of returning players for the Lady Badgers, and despite losing eight of their first nine games, the three-year varsity player is happy to be back on the court after suffering a season-ending knee injury last year.
It has been a tough start to the season so far, but how do you feel the team is coming together?
"I think we are coming together more and more as each game progresses, and we take time to reflect on the things we need to work on, fix our mistakes, and we just hope that we can apply them to the next game, so we can do a better job."
You have been on varsity since you were a sophomore. What has that experience been like?
"I think it has been very good. It has taught me a lot of life lessons, and it has helped me become more of a leader. It has helped me see more of the positive side of things that I do. Last year, I had ACL replacement on my knee, and that was a challenging thing for me to overcome. So, I think that being on varsity for three years, I know what needs to be done, and I know how to execute as a varsity player."
You mentioned your injury. What was that whole situation like?
"It is actually my second knee surgery, so I just taught myself that God has a plan for you. I hated being away from the game, and I hated sitting on the bench and watching my team, but I was there to encourage every single person. It killed me to sit there and watch other people get hurt because I knew exactly what they were going through, but in rehab, I did double the rehab, so I could get back into the shape I needed to be in.
"It really just motivated me more to be a better player than I was before because it is very challenging to get back to the way you were before your surgery. This surgery taught me a lot about myself and how strong I can be."
After all that, I'm sure this season is special to you. What do you want to accomplish this season?
"I really just want to have a very successful season. I want us to grow as a family, that is our main goal right now, to become one whole team and not individuals, and, as the season progresses, we are getting better every single game. So, I just hope we have a really good season."
I know your dad is a coach at Lampasas Middle School. What is it like being a coach's kid?
"You have your Dad, who has taught you so much outside of school, and, with him, I can go to the gym and I can talk to him because he knows what I'm going through.
"He can help me, he can tell me that I should tell a certain player that we need to work on this or you need to fix this. He knows what to look for, and he knows my strengths and capabilities that I'm able to have. He helps me, he pushes me to the limits because he knows the expectations I have and the expectations he has for me."
Your alter ego is the Lampasas Badger mascot. What is that like?
"Whenever I put the mascot suit on, it is like I become another person in a badger form. I can interact with kids, I can interact with the crowd, and it has taught me a lot because you have to interact with only hand motions.
"It takes a lot of pressure away from the outside world. If I'm having issues or something, I can just get in the suit, and I can go hang out and do whatever, be silly and be goofy and nobody is judging you because you are in a giant mascot suit, so everything is okay."
How did becoming the school mascot originate?
"I tried out for middle school cheerleader when I was younger, and I never made it, so I was always a water girl, and I was a trainer. All my friends always tell me how funny I am and how goofy I am, so my Mom decided I should probably tryout for mascot.
"So, I got into theater first, and my theater teacher loved me and said I was amazing and had such a good personality for the mascot.
"The girl who was the mascot at the time was in theater arts with me and told me that I need to be the mascot. I wasn't nervous or anything, but once I got in the suit, everything just clicked, and it was just something I absolutely loved."


text:
Admirers of the 114-year-old Belleview Biltmore see beyond the former hotel's decaying roof, peeling walls and barren floors.
Some people know the Biltmore, nicknamed the White Queen of the Gulf, because they celebrated weddings or attended meetings in the resort's grand ballrooms. The enormous wood structure is a part of their personal histories.
Others know the Biltmore because it is on the National Register of Historic Places and has played a major role in Pinellas County's history. It put the town of Belleair on the map.
All those connections to people and history may not matter now. The queen's days may be numbered. A consultant for the owners is pitching plans to raze most of the hotel to make way for up to 86 townhomes. The fate of the historic resort may rest in the hands of Belleair's leaders.
Their decisions will no doubt be influenced by residents of the upscale enclave of about 4,000, whose opinions run the gamut.
Belleair residents are known to value both history and green space. Years ago, when the Biltmore was at risk, many pushed to save it. They even adopted a historic preservation ordinance to protect it.
But the structure's rundown appearance and the sour economy seem to have shifted the tide. Some in town are ready to say goodbye. Others think there may be no alternative.
Deputy Mayor Stephen Fowler thinks many still want to see all or most of the hotel preserved. He feels the same way. But he's sensitive to those who live next to the shuttered building.
"You see the weeds coming up, the paint peeling and the ratty-looking roof," Fowler said. "You've got to feel sympathy for the residents around there."
Mayor Gary Katica thinks most folks in town are ready to say goodbye.
"I think the majority of people at this point think that it might be past the point of diminishing returns, and I don't think there will be any tremendous rejections," Katica said.
Jeff Jennings, who lives in a condo behind the Biltmore, doesn't think the hotel, even if it were restored, would ever be economically feasible because it doesn't have drawing cards like a beach or an adjacent golf course. The golf courses next door belong to the Belleair Country Club; the hotel's golf club is a mile away.
"You hate to see it go," said Jennings, 59. "Unfortunately, its time has probably come."
On the other end of the spectrum are residents like Lou White. Her late husband, Roger, was executive director of Clearwater's Morton Plant Hospital for 17 years, and she values the hotel's contributions to Pinellas' history. Among them, the hospital's founder was the son of Henry B. Plant, the railroad tycoon who built the Biltmore.
"It should not only be a Belleair concern, it should be a Pinellas County concern because it's a landmark for the county," said White, 78. With fewer protections for "historical places and our environment," White said, "we're going to be left with nothing."
Those who want to save the hotel acknowledge it may take time to find a developer with pockets deep enough to save the Biltmore. Razing the hotel and changing the zoning also could be an uphill climb, since the town code calls for preservation of historic properties.
However, a representative for the Miami investors who bought the hotel and its assets for about $8 million in December is in town pitching plans for townhomes where the Biltmore now stands. Matthew Cummings said they would sell for $450,000 to $750,000 each.
Cummings said the $100 million price tag to restore the hotel is just too much. And even if the Biltmore could be restored, he insisted, a hotel in that location could never succeed. Nevertheless, Cummings said, the Biltmore, with its beachside Cabana Club, remains for sale as a hotel property for $10 million.
In late October, Richard Heisenbottle, a Coral Gables architect who worked for the hotel's previous owner, revealed plans of his own to save the Biltmore. He argued that a hotel on the site could be successful. And he urged residents to think twice before they let the "heart and soul of Belleair" be ripped down.
Negativity about the Biltmore has struck a nerve with local historian Michael Sanders.
"For those who say it's simply a horrible location for a hotel, then why was it here for 100 years?" he asked. "They can build nice townhouses. But I think you're going to lose something important when that goes."
For decades, the Biltmore lured settlers, tourists, industrialists and celebrities, Sanders said. It was the center from which the town of Belleair grew.
A restored Biltmore could become a historic hotel for America and attract world travelers seeking a resort with history, like the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island or the Hotel del Coronado in San Diego, Sanders said.
The hotel's age and rich history led to it being placed on the National Register of Historic Places, the nation's list of resources deemed worthy of preservation, in 1979. The resort's history traces back to the late 1800s, when Plant built the Hotel Belleview. He leased the Orange Belt Railway line, which connected to St. Petersburg, hoping a luxurious resort would attract rail passengers.
The Biltmore hit a rough patch after the stock market crash of 1929. Within a few years, it went into receivership and remained there until the Kirkeby hotel chain bought it in 1939.
During World War II, 3,000 soldiers bunked there to train for duty overseas. The hotel suffered the consequences. When Bernie Powell with his sister, Nora Mae Peabody, and real estate broker Roger Stevens spent $500,000 to buy the hotel in 1946, he found crumbling wallpaper, unhinged doors and a barren kitchen. But he also saw promise.
"There is something about that hotel that has charm," Powell said in an interview six years ago. He died in 2008.
Powell re-established the Biltmore as one of Florida's grand resorts, drawing pop icons and presidents as guests. In 1990, he sold the resort for $27.5 million to Mido Development
The hotel changed hands several times after that. Off and on over the past decade, the future of the Biltmore has been in doubt. This marks the third time since 2004 that the hotel has been at risk of demolition. In 2005, the National Trust for Historic Preservation named the Biltmore one of America's 11 most endangered historic places.
There was hope in 2007 when Legg Mason Real Estate Investors bought the hotel and its assets for $30.3 million, with plans for a $145 million makeover. Powell died believing the hotel was safe, not knowing that Legg Mason's plans would not come to fruition.
Powell's grandson, Matthew Archangeli, said the condition of the Biltmore today is similar to its condition when his grandfather bought it.
"He had to start from scratch and that can be done again," said Archangeli, 46.
A few months ago, Archangeli took a tour of the Biltmore. He was struck by the once-opulent Biltmore's stripped walls, bare floors and empty rooms.
"You could feel the old queen suffering," Archangeli said.
He knows his grandfather would have been upset.
"I'm just glad Bernie isn't around to see it," he said.
Reach Lorri Helfand at firstname.lastname@example.com or (727) 445-4155.


text:
Jimi Mistry Visits Rwanda with Action Aid
Category: ActionAid, Childrens Charities
Actor Jimi Mistry, star of hit films The Guru and East is East, has just returned from Rwanda after taking part in the Action Aid charity 'Unforgettable Moments' campaign. Jimi got the chance to see how child sponsorship really works and the huge difference it makes to the lives of children in Africa.
Jimi has been sponsoring a child with ActionAid for several years, and jumped at the chance to visit the children of Rwanda, as having a 10 year old daughter himself he wanted to meet children who are growing up without a mum or dad.
Jimi said –
As a dad, I want the best for my daughter, Elin. I kept telling her how excited I was about the visit, but I had no idea what to expect. I was amazed. Rwanda is a beautiful country with warm, humble and dignified people and given the genocide in 1994 what I saw is even more remarkable. ActionAid's child sponsorship programme is part of what makes people happy because it works, not just for one child but it changes the lives of whole families and communities forever.
Jimi's visit took him to the Mpanga Primary School which was previously at the top of a 3 mile hike up a mountain, but thanks to ActionAid's child sponsorship scheme, it has been moved to the bottom. I wouldn't have fancied that trek every morning. This perilous journey was made the worse by wild hunting dogs littered around the landscape
Now that the school is at the bottom of the mountain, the children and their teachers can enjoy their education without the daily stress of such a monumental challenge just to get to school!
Help Action Aid by Sponsoring a Child
The Action Aid Sponsor a Child programme is a great way to give a needy child a real chance of escaping poverty. As part of a long-term program, your continued support enables Action Aid to use your donations to build sustainable communities in partnership with the people who live there.
You can provide a child with a better future for just 50p a day – giving them a real chance of escaping poverty. You get to see and feel the difference your support makes directly, through the eyes of your sponsored child and their regular letters and photographs.


text:
Dec. 29, 1956 – Sept. 23, 2013
Jeff Gramps Meredith, 56, of Lindstrom and formerly of White Bear Lake, died Monday, Sept. 23, 2013.
A celebration of life will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5 at South Shore Trinity Lutheran Church, 2480 South Shore Drive, White Bear Lake. Visitation will be from noon to 3 p.m.
Jeff is survived by his wife of 36 years; Dawn; brothers and sisters, Cecil (Becky) Meredith, Tom (Sheryl) Meredith, Sue Meredith, Laura (Mike) Kalisch, Shelly (Brian) Winkler; aunt, Marcine Widman; his pal, Huey; many nieces, nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil Meredith and Dolores Thompson.
Memorials are preferred to the family and may be sent in care of Roberts Family Funeral Home, 555 Centennial Drive SW, Forest Lake, MN 55025.
Jeff Meredith
Dec. 29, 1956 – Sept. 23, 2013


text:
Another 1-1 tie
For the second straight day, the Lightning's scrimmage ended 1-1, but this one was a far cry from Saturday's effort that left coach John Tortorella so dissatisfied. "We played at a much higher tempo,'' he said. "It was a much better game.''
You know what, I'm going to ride this goaltending situation till the bitter end. No matter what the arguments against it, what happens at that position will determine how the team does this season. So it was very cool today that Marc Denis played lights out, officially stopping 17 shots in 32 minutes, though I counted at least four more. Denis, as we know, is in a battle with Johna Holmqvist and Karri Ramo for two spots. Holmqvist probably has the inside track to be No. 1, and Ramo put on a show Saturday and was solid again Sunday and has stopped 32 of 33 shots in two scrimmages. Denis has stopped 26 of 27 shots in two scrimmages. Sure, scrimmages are just warmups for the preseason. But after his dreadful 2006-07, Denis has to build confidence with coaches and players. Denis looked confident in net and his positioning was terrific not to mention his anticipation. His right-leg stop of Marty St. Louis and adjustment to stop Vinny Prospal on the rebound was excellent.
Denis didn't have a lot to say after the scrimmage. He acknowledged how "the microscope" is on the team's unsettled situation in net, and said, politely, it probably is best for him to step back from extensive media coverage he described with a wink as perhaps being "too much. ... I'm sure you noticed I'm a little less cooperative.''
Said goaltenders coach Jeff Reese: "I'm sure he doesn't like what's been written. I know one thing, he did not want to be traded. He did not want to go anywhere. He wants to finish what he started here. He wants to put last season behind him. You guys (reporters) make that difficult for him to do that. There were a bunch of articles written before a puck was dropped, not only on him but on the goaltending in general. So far, he's put everything behind him. He's starting fresh. He looks very sharp the first few days.''
I'll have much more on Denis in tomorrow's paper.
For what it's worth after two scrimmages, the fourth line with center Craig MacDonald, Nick Tarnasky and Andre Roy looks great. MacDonald sparked Tarnasky's goal when he knocked Chris Gratton off the puck.
Michel Ouellet scored with 1:06 left in the final period. It was a big goal for Ouellet, who was signed over the summer to add offensive punch but had been almost invisible in two scrimmages. Ouellet agreed he had not played well (he is trying to get used to new linemates) but said the goal should loosen him up some. But I actually liked this quote: "I'm the kind of guy who plays in a system very well. Now we're playing like summer hockey. When everyone is on the same page, it will be a lot easier.''
Left wing Andreas Karlsson, who played so well Saturday, got a look on the second line with center Brad Richards and Ouellet. "He's fair that way,'' Karlsson said of Tortorella. "If you play well, he gives you ice time.'' No word on if this is a permanent thing, probably not given it is so early and there is no way to give up on Jan Hlavac so early. Hlavac, a free agent signing, also has struggled and was dropped to the third line ... for now.
Tortorella went out of his way to praise defenseman Mike Lundin, saying, "He's had a good couple of days here. He's handled himself well.''
Tortorella said cuts will come after Saturday's game against the Capitals and bring the number of players in camp to 25 or 26 from the current 33. He said final cuts likely won't come until after the Sept. 29 preseason finale in Dallas.


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Theater of the Stars is in danger of closing. The Atlanta-based professional theater company has been in existence for more than 60 years and has been performing at the Fox since 1984.
But the company has accrued a large amount of debt over time and now needs to raise $50,000 by July 12th in order to keep their doors open.
WABE's Michelle Wirth has reported on this story and joined us to talk about this story. You can hear her original story here.


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The only hotel linked by a walkway to Colombos World Trade Center, the city-center Hilton Colombo hotel overlooks the Indian Ocean and Beira Lake. Do business in the Executive Lounge and 24-hour business center or unwind in any of 10 restaurants and bars. Enjoy the sports and fitness club, with a fitness room, sauna and Jacuzzi. Theres a 90-foot outdoor pool and squash and tennis courts too. Relax in the beauty salon or browse the onsite shopping gallery. Colombo attractions like the Fort district and Pettah Bazaar are on your doorstep. All Hilton Colombo hotel rooms, from Rooms to Suites, boast high-speed internet access. Opt for an Executive Room for Executive Lounge access.Sample award-winning cocktails at the Poolside Bar, Sri Lankan cuisine at the open-air Curry Leaf restaurant and Szechuan dishes at the Emperors Wok. Just 45 minutes drive from Bandaranaike International Airport, the Hilton Colombo hotel offers 13 meeting rooms for 5-1000, a 24-hour business center and a well-equipped Executive Lounge.
Situated in the heart of Colombo"s business district, the Galadari Hotel is a 450 room super luxury hotel that overlooks the Indian Ocean and is adjacent to the Presidential Secretariat, Banks and the World Trade Center, with easy access to the shopping areas in Colombo. With a range of room and suite types, and a comprehensive list of facilities, the hotel is able to cater to the requirements of both business and family travelers, and is especially geared to handle the needs of Muslim clients, with Halal food in all restaurants. Whatever your banquets and functions requirements, the Galadari Hotel, with its assortment of varied banquet halls and meeting rooms, and exceptional service, can tailor an ideal solution for you.
Welcome to a place where senses are delighted and desires indulged. A place of colours, sounds and unexpected pleasures. A place where you pick the pace and you choose the mood. If you"re looking to explore the city or escape it, Cinnamon Grand is your perfect haven. We"re in the heart of Colombo"s business, shopping and entertainment centre, just 35 kms from the airport. Our rooms are luxurious and our restaurants serve up an eclectic mix of fine cuisine. We have spaces for relaxing and spaces for discovering. We have rooms for meetings and rooms for avoiding meetings. And if you like to mix business and pleasure, we have all the facilities you need. Wedding ServicesWe have what it takes to make your special day picture perfect and give you memories to last a lifetime. Our services include:
The Galle Face Hotel is located in the heart of the city of Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. Bordering the Indian Ocean of which there are panoramic views from almost every room. The hotel was built by British Entrepreneurs at that time and the Galle Face is a luxury heritage masterpiece boasting of Victorian architecture. It has continued to host royalty, world leaders and celebrities from olonial Ceylon to modern Sri Lanka. The grandest reason calls for the grandest location: There"s no other place in Colombo offering professionally organised weddings, banquets and other official functions against a stunning and historical backdrop. Graceful décor and elegantly appointed furnishings are common features in all function areas.High standards of quality and impeccable service ensure that every function is extra special and remarkable to both the host and their guests.Spacious, elegant rooms by the sea: Our fully air conditioned Rooms and Suites have been furnished in elegant Galle Face Hotel style with the addition of all modern international standard facilities. The rooms offer a range of additional luxuries including the services of a personal Butler.All Rooms and Suites offer sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, the world-renowned Galle Face Green promenade or the colourful and bustling city. For added convenience guests can also request private check-ins and check-outs when staying at the hotel.
With a history spanning over 200 years, Mount Lavinia Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Sri Lanka. This premier colonial heritage hotel has earned a reputation over the years for its magnificent structure and ambiance, the old world charm which harks back to the grandeur of old Ceylon, its romantic legacy left by the colonial Governor General who used it as his residence, the exceptional service offered by its well-trained staff and its popularity as a venue for weddings. The grand old building has stood the test of time and coupled with every convenience a modern hotel can offer, continues to whisper legends of love and adventure to everyone who pass through its majestic corridors.The hotel offers direct beach access, a swimming pool with a kiddies pool, three restaurants, three bars, a gym, a spa, a beauty salon and a host of other facilities. Just 54 kilometres from the Bandaranaike International Airport, and within the metropolitan area of Colombo, Mount Lavinia Hotel is the ideal beach resort in city for you. You can enjoy all that Colombo city has to offer, and at the same time enjoy a beach holiday in a colonial theme hotel. The hotel offers 226 rooms and suites ranging from colonial style rooms with wooden flooring, period furniture and decor, to rooms with modern contemporary interiors and decor. All rooms enjoy views of the beach and ocean.The hotel is also a much sought after location for conferences, conventions, seminars, workshops, business meetings, private parties and cocktails with seven venues to choose from.Mount Lavinia Hotel is Located in the coastal town of Mount Lavinia, which is just 12 kilometres south of the City of Colombo and 54 kilometres from the Bandaranaike International Airport, the hotel is easy to reach, yet away from the congestion of the capital. It is situated atop a rock and looks over the aquamarine waters of the Indian Ocean. The hotel allows direct access to the beach. The town of Mount Lavinia was originally known as Galkissa in Sinhala. It"s said to have acquired the latter name in memory of "Lady Lovinia".
Located in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka, Ceylon Continental is primarily a five star business hotel and holds the accreditation of being the first such property in Sri Lanka, since opening in 1973. Ceylon Continental is poised along the Indian Ocean, offering beautiful, up close views to its guests. Our much loved restaurants and thoughtful amenities offer epicurean delights, gracious service and relaxation to business travelers, sojourners and vacationers alike.Ceylon Continental is blessed with excellent travel connections and is just a step away from local attractions such as the zoological gardens, the National Museum, and some of the most popular restaurants, shops and entertainment venues in the island, and is just an hours drive from the International AirportSample award-winning cocktails at the Poolside Bar, Sri Lankan cuisine at the open-air Curry Leaf restaurant and Szechuan dishes at the Emperors Wok.A representation of heritage and style, Ceylon Continental Hotel is a source of exuberance and comfort at the heart of Colombo, and is popularly referred to as the Warmest Heart in Sri Lanka.With excellent travel connections, and a beautiful view of the Indian ocean, the Ceylon Continental Hotel is ideally located at the heart of Colombo giving you an early start to the citys business venues, shopping complexes, restaurants, pubs, and even small boutique shops that you might want to hop into, making it the ideal base for both business and leisure travelers.The rich north Indian, Moghul architecture has seemingly influenced the design of the hotel and the sea breeze that rush in will only take you to a one of a kind five star experience by the sea. Each of the comfortable guest rooms is equipped with all modern comforts to ensure a relaxing and memorable stay. The hotel is well equipped with all modern amenities, such as conference rooms, business centre, a fully equipped Gym, Swimming Pool, and host of other recreational facilities to provide the guests with a star class experience and comfort.
Toll Free USA/Canada: 1-800-651-5099 (Customer Feedback)


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Lea Michele Shares Her Hiking Playlist — Listen Here! [EXCLUSIVE PREMIERE]
When Lea Michele goes for a run or a hike, there are certain songs that just help to motivate her. And based on her Beats Music playlist, which you can listen to exclusively via PopCrush's profile, she seems to be a big fan of Lorde and John Mayer.
"Lately I've been loving going in hikes here in [L.A.]," she says. "And I love listening to really relaxing, beautiful music while I walk or run at Runyon [Canyon]."
This music includes three songs by Lorde (including her smash hit, 'Royals,' and 'Tennis Court') and several tunes by John Mayer ('Wildfire' and 'Dear Marie'). Michele is also into Imagine Dragons and Mumford and Sons, who have two songs each on her mix.
Running is a special time for the singer, whose latest solo album, 'Louder,' dropped March 4. Her debut memoir, 'Brunette Ambition,' is set to be released on May 13.
Recently, she spoke about remembering her late boyfriend Cory Monteith while she runs.
"Every day when I go running," she explained to Glamour UK, "I feel like he is pushing me to run harder."
Listen to Lea Michele's Beats Music playlist here, and get the full track list below:
'Cannonball' (Lea Michele)
'Wildfire' (John Mayer)
'The Love Club' (Lorde)
'Ho Hey' (The Lumineers)
'It's Time' (Imagine Dragons)
'Royals' (Lorde)
'Dear Marie' (John Mayer)
'Sigh No More' (Mumford and Sons)
'Shake It Out' (Florence and the Machine)
'Stars' (Grace Potter)
'On Top of the World' (Imagine Dragons)
'Unconditionally' (Katy Perry)
'Tennis Court' (Lorde)
'Reflektor' (Arcade Fire)
'After the Storm' (Mumford and Sons)


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Few national park visits are complete without a hike of some distance and duration. We made the following hikes in the parks the past year, and think you'll find them interesting possibilities for 2013.
Shenandoah National Park: Dark Hollow Falls And Beyond
There are many nice hikes in Shenandoah National Park, some that ramble on for miles, some that run just a short way to a wonderful payoff. Dark Hollow Falls is one such payoff, but the hike is just a mile-and-a-half roundtrip, rather short if you were looking for a good leg stretcher. You can, however, easily extend that hike by more than a few miles by weaving in some other trails and fire roads.
Shenandoah National Park: Lewis Falls Trail
Fall might not be everyone's preferred season for hiking, but in Shenandoah National Park it can be one of the best seasons. Not only are crowds down to a small trickle, but the naked forests can make it easier to spot remnants of old homesteads.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Ridgeline Nature Trail
Badlands sprawl out in every direction I look. East, west, south, or north, from the Ridgeline Nature Trail in the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park it is easy to understand how the "badlands" term was coined. Located 10.8 miles from the park's Medora entrance, the trail makes a short dash uphill through Rocky Mountain junipers to lead you up onto a grassy ridge that bends and twists and rises and falls. Though little more than a half-mile in length, the trail is a great introduction to the park's landscape.
Yellowstone National Park: Imperial And Spray Geysers Via Fairy Falls Trail
A towering, wispy waterfall, one of Yellowstone National Park's tallest, and two backcountry geysers via the same trail? That's what you get when you leave the Fairy Falls Trailhead. And it's not a long hike, one that requires hours of trekking and a river ford or two. Rather, this hike can be done in as few as two hours and reward you not only with that nearly 200-foot-tall waterfall, Fairy Falls, but with relative solitude (relative when compared to the park's front-country geyser basins, that is) to enjoy Spray and Imperial geysers.
Yellowstone National Park: Monument Geyser Basin
Most visitors to Yellowstone National Park are familiar with the Upper, Lower, and Midway geyser basins, but how many these days have made the trek to a basin that once, thanks to its oddly shaped spires and acidic hot springs, was another must-see attraction for park visitors? These days the Monument Geyser Basin is largely overlooked, as the park's other geyser basins with their readily accessible boardwalks, deep and colorful hot springs, curious mudpots, and erupting geysers pull most visitors. But if you're looking for a short, but strenuous, hike to a basin of spindly spires in a most unlikely spot, the trail to the Monument Geyser Basin waits for you.
Blue Ridge Parkway: Walking to Rattlesnake Lodge on the Blue Ridge Parkway
This hike offers sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and artifacts that point to an old lodge. Today there's little left of Rattlesnake Lodge, but the trail (3 miles, 600 feet ascent, round-trip) switchbacks up, giving you winter views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. At one point, where the side of the trail seems most worn out, you'll enjoy unobstructed view of the mountain range.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Mountain Farm and Oconaluftee River Trails
The Great Smokies' stellar Mountain Farm Museum at the new Oconaluftee Visitor Center may just be a stroll, but combine it with one of the Smokies best-kept-secret easy walks, the Oconaluftee River Trail, and you have one of the park's best combinations of scenery and interpretation. It is a masterful meshing of insight into Native Americans and later settlers. In addition, this is one of the few trails in the park where bikes and dogs on leash are permitted.
Rocky Mountain National Park: Black Lake
Contrary to the impression you might have gotten from the popular press, the whole state of Colorado is not burning. In particular, the popular areas of Rocky Mountain National Park are open and ready for hiking. A visit to Black Lake is a great introductory hike to the park. It shows off several iconic lakes and waterfalls. It's a progressive hike and you can decide how far you want to go. This hike is a good place to get a feel for the three natural environment of the park.
Petrified Forest National Park: Long Logs And Agate House Trails
It's the heart of summer, the hottest time to visit Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, but that doesn't mean you still can't enjoy the Long Logs and Agate House trails near the park's south entrance. You just have to be strategic in planning when to do these companion hikes. Together the two trails wind fewer than 4 miles through the petrified wood-littered landscape that's surrounded by gray-white badlands. There are reddish and cinnamon-hued long logs -- hence the name of the one trail -- and slabs that might have been sliced with a laser so clean are the cuts. And there's a pueblo recreated from petrified wood slabs similar to what ancestral puebloans might have used to build their homes seven-10 centuries ago.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Upper Caprock Coulee Trail
The best vantage points to take in the grandeur of Theodore Roosevelt National Park are, quite understandably, up high. The Upper Caprock Coulee Trail takes you there, and along the way shows off some incredible badlands that so captivated Theodore Roosevelt. Its location in the park's northern unit also makes this hike relatively --and some times totally-- uncrowded. Of the park's annual visitation of about 600,000, only about 10 percent of those visitors take the time to explore the North Unit, Superintendent Valerie Naylor told me during a recent visit.
Buffalo National River: A Potpourri Of Trails
Though it's a "national river," the forests surrounding the Buffalo National River have quite a few options for getting out and stretching the legs. Indeed, hiking in the upper Buffalo National River can be your Arkansas 'Walk in the Woods." Whether it's spring, summer, fall or winter, the adventurous trails along the upper stretches of the national river are perfect for hiking. It is especially beautiful this time of year with spring foliage blossoming everywhere you turn.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore: Hammock Hills Nature Trail
The farther away something is, the more people want to get there. That's the way it can seem with Ocracoke Island, one of the most inaccessible, but inviting, parts of North Carolina's Cape Hatteras National Seashore. To reach this idyllic little isle it takes a longish drive down the barrier islands of the northern Outer Banks to Hatteras Island, and then it's a short ferry hop south over to Ocracoke. Two other, more recommended, ferry routes link this wonderful island with the rest of the state. Each offers a 2-hour cruise across Pamlico Sound from 'mainland' North Carolina that perfectly set the stage for Ocracoke's appearance over the bow.
Petrified Forest National Park: The Crystal Forest
Though it's called the "Crystal Forest," it could just as easily have been dubbed "the wood lot" for all the slabs and trunks of petrified wood you'll find along this easy hike in Petrified Forest National Park. Located not quite 5 miles north of the Rainbow Forest Visitor Center at the park's south entrance, the Crystal Forest Trail meanders three-quarters of a mile past some of the most colorful stone logs you'll ever see.
Petrified Forest National Park: Blue Mesa Trail
There are, relative to other parks, only a handful of hikes for you to consider when you visit Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, but you still should come up with a pecking order, if only to plan your day. And if you like to hike first thing in the morning, then the Blue Mesa Trail should rise to the very top of your list. When it comes to getting the most out of your hikes in Petrified Forest, so much comes down to the slant of the sun. Even small changes of angle from that fiery orb overhead can alter the color of the landscape, and that of the rock logs, on the ground at your feet. What looks spectacular in the morning very possibly could look drab in the afternoon, and vice versa.
Glacier National Park: A Day Hiker's Overview
Encompassing more than a million acres, Glacier National Park in northwestern Montana is home to some of the most beautiful alpine meadows, lakes, pristine forests, rugged peaks and glacially-carved valleys in the world. Its diverse habitats support nearly 70 species of mammals, including grizzly bears, black bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, moose, wolverines, gray wolves and mountain lions. With more than 740 miles of trails that lead to some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet, Glacier is also a hiker's paradise. Considering its massive size, most people divide the park into sections in order to focus on one or two areas at a time. The four most popular areas in the park are West Glacier / Lake McDonald, Two Medicine, Logan Pass, and Many Glacier. The following are some suggestions for day hikes in each of these areas.


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CLEVELAND (AP) — A former northeast Ohio guidance counselor has been sentenced to a year in state prison after admitting she sexually abused a student.
Ronetta Smith pleaded guilty to reduced charges last month of sexual battery and attempted tampering with evidence.
The 36-year-old was sentenced on Thursday. She must register as a sex offender and can never work in a high school again.
Smith's attorney unsuccessfully asked that she receive probation, saying she has no criminal history and a teen daughter at home.
Smith had been a guidance counselor at Euclid (YOO'-klihd) High School. She resigned in March.
Prosecutors say Smith sent the student hundreds of text messages. Some referenced sexual assaults in school classrooms, in Smith's office and the boy's home.
Smith says she made a mistake and has apologized.


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Relaxation, massages and being waited upon for breakfast, lunch and dinner is the sort of life I could get used to, says travel writer Catherine Varney.
Unfortunately all good things must come to an end, and this was only during a luxurious weekend getaway to the beautiful Whittlebury Hall in Northamptonshire.
The spa, hotel and golf club invited bedfordtoday to try out their facilities. And I was only too happy to put my hand up for this gig – well someone had to.
And I dragged my partner along for the ride kicking and screaming, well there wasn't much kicking or screaming, more excitement and squealing.
We went for the overnight deluxe stay, which included one night's stay, full use of the pool and heat and ice spa experience, and an hour-long back, shoulder, face and scalp massage using hot stones.
There was also a two-course buffet lunch, and three-course dinner at their fine dining restaurant Murrays and a full English breakfast before you head back home.
It sounded beautiful and we were certainly not disappointed.
We arrived at 10am on Saturday where we checked in. The system seemed of a faff at first. You have to take everything you need out of your luggage for the spa, and then leave the rest at reception.
But everything fell into place. You then head off to the spa and the staff take your luggage up to your room when it is ready.
So we headed off for our day of relaxation and it certainly was that. We left all our stresses and worries at the door and let ourselves be pampered for the day.
We were welcomed by friendly staff as we entered the spa area who gave us a welcome pack and we were asked to fill out a consultation form.
Once we had filled out that we were free to explore. I heard about the heat and ice thermal experience which sounded very inviting, so were a little confused when all we could find was the
pool area. As lovely as it was with sunbeds, a café area to have a drink or something to eat, jacuzzi and steam and sauna rooms, we went in search of the 'experience'.
We didn't have to look far as we found it in the next room. It was like entering a paradise. We were hit by a very warm temperature and welcomed by the site of a big hydrotherapy pool area, with powerful water fountains pouring water out.
And then there were various hot and cold experiences to try out, including a cold bucket shower, basically a bucket of cold water being poured on you, experience showers – very hot and very cold, a crystal relaxation room and an ice cave.
The idea behind these multi-level experiences is to invigorate the body by providing different sensations as a result of changing temperatures.
As you move through the treatments you gradually increase your body's temperature before stepping into the Ice Cave to stimulate your circulation and senses. This also has the effect of aiding the elimination of toxins and exfoliating your skin.
We had been booked for a lunchtime slot of 1pm where we were treated to a delicious mix of hot and cold two-course buffet lunch. We had the choice of lasagne, vegetables, salad, potatoes, cold meats and fruit for dessert.
I tried to tell myself to not fill myself up too much but the food looked so good I was unable to stop myself, I felt fit to burst afterwards.
So we had a little break from swimming and messing around after lunch and dried off ready for our massages at 3pm.
We had our treatments in the couple's room so we could have them together. We were both very
impressed with our massages, they were lovely.
After a, slightly pricey, pot of tea we hit the spa area again for another couple of hours before heading off to check out our room.
It was very spacious, and we had a lovely view of the grounds of Whittlebury Hall.
Soon it was time for dinner.
We were led through to a lounge area where diners were presented with drinks and canopes before they were taken through for the main event.
A word of warning - bring your wallet with you, the drinks are not cheap.
Boasting two AA Rosettes and an intimate and relaxing atmosphere, Murrays provides the perfect setting for our for the restaurant's head chef to introduce you to his modern British menu
As the name suggests, Murrays is a homage to the legendary F1 commentator Murray Walker and whilst you relax in the lounge and during dinner you can reminisce by viewing the collection of photographs with F1 celebrities and some unique anecdotes of his memorable career.
A beautiful three-course dinner followed. I opted for Cornish crab and the 35-day aged beef with tongue. I couldn't even fit desert in. While Ian went for ham, egg and chips, followed by the beef and unlike me, he could fit in a lemon meringue cheesecake, which he loved. The beef was lovely, however the tongue wasn't to my liking.
It was a beautiful end to a lovely, relaxing day.
The following day, feeling completely refreshed, we were set up for the day with a lovely full English breakfast, fit for a king.
And Ian was so refreshed he was even up for being dragged round the shops on a Sunday afternoon.
Overnight spa stays at Whittlebury Hall start from £69. To find out more and their full price list go to www.whittleburyhall.co.uk


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Israelis Warned to Avoid India's Goa Region
A new travel advisory warns Israelis not to visit India's Goa region. The advisory issued Wednesday by Israel's Counter Terrorism Bureau comes two weeks after Jews and Israelis were singled out during terror attacks in Mumbai, India's financial capital. Goa is a popular travel destination for Israelis, particularly during the last two weeks in December…. More ▸


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The Senate Armed Services Committee today adopted, by a vote of 17-9, a bipartisan amendment to the 2014 National Defense Authorization Act cosponsored by U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) that would combat sexual assault in the military by making robust changes to the military justice system.
The amendment alters the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to:
Trigger an automatic review of any sexual assault case by a Service Secretary when a commander overturns the recommendation of a military legal advisor to prosecute that case
Require, when a military legal advisor recommends and a commander agrees not to refer a sexual assault case to trial by court martial, that the next higher level commander review that decision
Make it a punishable offense under the Uniform Code of Military Justice to retaliate against a victim who reports a criminal offense
The amendment's provision to make retaliation a punishable offense under the UCMJ falls in line with Senator King's suggestion from a June 4th Armed Services hearing, where he pressed top military officials to define "an offense of retaliation for reporting for one these crimes because non-reporting is the big problem here."
During the markup, Senator King said:
"I believe in any organization the leader sets the tone, and that's what we're talking about here: tone and culture. And if you take the commander of the unit out of the equation, then, as Senator Kaine mentioned, you're sending a message that we don't trust these folks. But also basically that commander then can say, "Ok, this isn't my problem anymore.' And we want it to be their problem. I think that the engagement of the leader of the group, at whatever level, is a terribly important part of the solution of this problem. The target is the failure to report, and I think if we can establish that retaliation itself is an offense, that, I believe, will be a very important contribution in addition to the safeguards that are the heart of your proposal."
As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator King has also pushed members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and senior military leaders to make cultural changes within the service in order to fully and effectively eradicate sexual assault within the ranks.
Source: http://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-backed-amendment-to-combat-sexual-assault-in-the-military-adopted-by-senate-armed-services-committee