text:
- //Home
- //Music
- //Blogs
- //Sound Affects
- //Superchunk
Back in the early '90s, it would've been hard to imagine Superchunk still going strong almost 25 years later, much less elder statesmen to a few generations of indie rockers influenced by the Chapel Hill quartet. The brattiest band on the college rock scene, early-era Superchunk brashly called out bad bosses, less committed peers, and significant others, hardly the makings of a group that's now almost avuncular in showing the youngsters how its done by leading by example. And you would've thought Superchunk's revved-up, all-out punk-pop made 'em a prime candidate for breaking down, burning out, or falling out, which could've happened a few times, most notably when the romantic relationship between founders Mac McCaughan and Laura Ballance ended around the time of 1994's Foolish and the extended hiatus between 2001's Here's to Shutting Up and 2010's Majesty Shredding.
Instead, Superchunk has survived and advanced because the foursome figured out how to change with the times, its music reflecting different stages of the band's career and its members' lives. Contrary to the popular opinion that all Superchunk songs sound the same, there's more variety and craft to their ten albums and innumerable singles than they're given credit for: Sure, most songs revolve around the combination of McCaughan's overheated vocals, Ballance's bounding bass, Jon Wurster's primal drumming, and guitarist Jim Wilbur's wisecracking energy, but they've stretched their prototypical power-punk form in more directions than you thought possible until you take the long view looking back.
That's what we're doing here with our list of a dozen essential Superchunk tracks, which toasts the release of the indie institution's tenth full-length, I Hate Music. Another set of engrossing variations on the band's main themes, I Hate Music proves the only thing that's same old, same old about Superchunk is how consistently good it is, the one real thread connecting its "Slack Motherfucker" days to now.
(Come Pick Me Up)
As the 1990s came to an end, Superchunk adopted an increasingly complex approach to songcraft and an apparent openness to far-flung collaborators. 1999's Come Pick Me Up could be considered Superchunk's "headphones album", a collection of relaxed, textured indie pop recorded with experimental musician/producer Jim O'Rourke and featuring a host of string and jazz musicians. "So Convinced", the album's short-but-sweet lead track, sets the tone early with a lighter touch and playful studio quirks. After the opening bubbles of distorted percussion, new elements join the mix piece by piece, with the heavy guitars finally taking over and accelerating through the finish. ~ Mike Noren
(No Pocky for Kitty)
Even for a band as adrenalized and impatient as early Superchunk was, "Skip Steps 1 and 3" sounds fast and hyped up, its thrashy guitar riffs noticeably quicker and the rapid-fire drums going at double time—when McCaughan calls out, "Get to the point," that's exactly what he's doing. However many steps are involved, Superchunk is definitely skipping a few on this prototypical punch-up, mashing the velocity and aggression of hardcore punk up with the beefy melodies of grunge-era indie rock. A fan favorite from 1991's No Pocky for Kitty, "Skip Steps 1 and 3" comes off even better live, guaranteed to trigger more frenzied pogoing than just about any other entry on a Superchunk setlist. ~ Arnold Pan
(Majesty Shredding)
For 2010's Majesty Shredding, Superchunk's first studio album after nearly a decade away, the group opted not to pick up where they left off and instead went back to the basics. Packed with fast tempos and loud guitars, the album set the studio fuss aside and focused on the rawer thrills of music making. Final track "Everything at Once" summed up the group's universal appeal while also closing out the comeback with a victory lap: "Here's a song about nothing, and everything at once…The feedback and the drums / Oh, the feeling noise becomes." ~ Mike Noren
9. "For Tension" (1993)
(On the Mouth)
Superchunk never sounded so pent up and ready to explode—or implode?—as it did on 1992's On the Mouth, something that's as apparent as ever on "For Tension". Aptly titled, "For Tension" is the most representative track on an album that's buzzing and crackling with nervous energy, especially in the interplay between the snapping guitars, pulsing bass, and pounding beats. When McCaughan gets to the chorus and almost sneeringly asks, "For tension, guess what I use?," the answer is open-ended, since what makes the number work so well is that you're not sure whether "For Tension" only builds up that tension further or finds a release. ~ Arnold Pan
(Here's Where the Strings Come In)
If there ever were a theme song for Superchunk, "Hyper Enough" is it. After all, is there a title to a song that more aptly describes the band that made it than "Hyper Enough" does for Superchunk? "Hyper Enough" certainly lives up to its name, a caffeinated blast of churning riffs, each jittery and antsy waiting its turn, only to jump the gun. And when McCaughan yelps out the chorus of "I think I'm hyper enough as it is!," it's at once a perfectly apt description of his musical persona as well as a profound understatement of what the song accomplishes. ~ Arnold Pan
(Indoor Living)
By 1997's Indoor Living, Superchunk had broadened its approach, balancing full-speed rockers with gentler ballads and intricately crafted pop songs. "Martinis on the Roof", the album's closing track, finds Superchunk branching into new territory both sonically, with its ringing guitar tones and touch of xylophone, and lyrically. The lyrics describe offerings from a rooftop party—"Blue Ribbons and red wine", "Cheetos and 100 proof"—but take a somber turn as more details unfold. McCaughan has said that the song deals with someone who was killed in a car accident, and the verses about friends returning to their daily lives and "trying to work it out" are some of his most affecting songwriting. ~ Mike Noren
Late Night Episode "Golden Age (Acoustic)" (video) (premiere) // Music
Dan Miraldi 'Love Under Fire' (audio) (premiere) // Music
Gabrielle Papillon "Keep the Fire" (audio) (premiere) // Music
Wanderwild "Dreams" (audio) (premiere) // Music
Sci-Fi Author Ursula LeGuin's Stories of Class War, Religious Dissension, Identity Politics and More
TIFF 2017: 'The Royal Hibiscus Hotel'
// Notes from the Road
"Though a typical rom-com, Ishaya Bako's film is never boring.READ the article


text:
Flair, Scott Hall, JR's BBQ In France, RAW in Tulsa, New Tex-Mex Jerky Coming, Cowboy & the Russian, SAUCE IT!
Here's hoping everyone had a great weekend. Nice road trip to Tulsa for Monday Night Raw at the BOK Center. Tickets are still available for which should be a fun night. Let's start the grill....
I started my career in Tulsa in 1974 working for local promoters Lee Roy McGuirk and Cowboy Bill Watts so it's always good to be a part of an event in Tulsa. Let's hope the live crowd is loud and rowdy during WWE's flagship broadcast as the countdown to Night of Champions on PPV continues.
The only other WWE event in the state of Oklahoma this year is October 10 when MNR plays Oklahoma City. For those keeping score at home this is the Monday after the OU-Texas football weekend in Dallas.
Get well wishes to Rey Mysterio who had knee surgery in San Diego this past Friday. Rey had ACL and MCL issues addressed and will be out of action for several months. This is the same knee that Rey has had multiple surgeries so his rehabilitation work will be even more magnified and important.
Many have asked me via Twitter @JRsBBQ and in the Q&A Section of this site to comment on the ESPN/Grantland article regarding Ric Flair's personal finances and other personal issues. Ric has been a friend for well over three decades and I was uncomfortable reading the piece. Ric has always enjoyed life to its fullest, and beyond, which, last I looked, wasn't a crime.
Lots of famous athletes and entertainers have had financial hurdles to overcome. If Ric has the issues that Grantland outlined, I wish Naitch well and he has my support.
That's what friends do.
Several people have asked me about Samoa Joe. I personally like Joe's work and feel that his best days lie ahead. I do not know Joe. I've never conversed with him that I can recall. Bottom line is 1. he has a contract where he now works and 2. I am not involved in talent acquisition for WWE.
Could Scott Hall fit in the announce booth as a color commentator? It's not an easy transition for many former wrestlers to make the move from the ring to the announce table so it wouldn't be automatic. However, Scott is a bright guy who is glib and he knows the genre well. If he put in the work that it would take to be an asset who's to say that Scott Hall wouldn't be a good broadcaster? I do know that it takes great focus, commitment and study to be as good as one needs to be in today's world. I don't know if Scott has an interest in this matter but it was a question from a Twitter follower.
Thanks to the fans in Paris, France for the kind words regarding JR's products. We appreciate your business at http://www.wweshop.com/Category/JimRoss.
What did I think of fellow Oklahoman Brent Albright? I thought he was a solid wrestler. Not sure where he is today but he was fundamentally sound. I never saw Brent compete that many times in person but it seemed like he had potential.
Twitter....Do I cheer for Oklahoma State in football? Yes, every week but one....Bedlam.
Emailer...Do I like the 'escape the cage' rule or stipulation for cage matches? Personally, no.
We're getting several cool names from Twitter followers for our new Tex Mex beef jerky that we will be distributing via WWEShop in about 30 days or so. We expect to add 3-4 new flavors of jerky.. Our Jerky business has really exploded in a good way.
If you're in Tulsa on Monday morning, be listening to local radio as the Miz is doing media there to promote Raw.
Congrats to the USA for winning the Little League World Series 2-1 over a talented Japanese team. Volunteering at the Little League World Series in some capacity is on my 'Bucket List.'
Got an email from @steveaustin that a fan send him of a You Tube match from Kuwait in the mid 90's where @BretHart wrestled Austin in the prestigious Kuwait tournament. O.K., perhaps it wasn't so prestigious but the match was great and what really worked for me was that I did play by play with the legendary Gorilla Monsoon who was one helluva superb analyst.
WWE's Raw team sold out Jackson, Mississippi Friday night. When I think of Jackson, I think of Cowboy Bill Watts beating up a 'Russian' one night there before a huge crowd and the 'Russian' hitting the exit and never coming back. I forgot the guys name and don't know if he even stayed in the wrestling business. This was the match that followed the incident where Eddie Gilbert and company 'buried' Watts in the Russian flag on Mid South TV. That's probably on You Tube as well.
A twitter follower asked me who was the better offensive lineman, Vader aka Leon White or Steve 'Dr. Death' Williams. Doc played in 4 bowl games at Oklahoma but Leon, who was a Colorado Bufalo, had more individual success and was drafted in the NFL (LA Rams) while Doc played in the USFL (New Jersey). Slight nod to Vader. However, the best lineman I ever worked with in wrestling was Ron Simmons who finished in the top ten in the Heisman Trophy voting and was a three time all America nose tackle at Florida State.
The scheduler couldn't have made it any tougher than having OU @ FSU in Tallahassee the night before WWE's Night of Champions in Buffalo, New York on September 18. I'm going to both if I'm needed in Buffalo. There's another travel challenge in November where OU hosts Texas A&M on Saturday night and Raw that Monday is in Liverpool, England.
Check out this link @ http://www.wweshop.com/Category/JimRoss and browse our page of JR's products on WWEShop.com.
Boomer Sooner!

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Artist description:
No description entered.
Flash Draw Created Apr 01, 2007 470 x 338px Unless noted Copyright 2007 sweetiegrl95.
We encourage you to submit a comment and let the artist know what you think of this drawing. Please log in or join to post a comment.
Post a comment
Pom Pom Apr 01, 2007
not bad.
Page 1


text:
There are no items in your cart at this time.
Whether you live in the warmth all year round or only see a few months of it, a comfortable pair of sandals is essential for supreme comfort when the sun is high. Footwear etc. has gathered an extraordinary array of supportive thong, slip-on, wedge, high heel and designer sandals fit for the most luxurious spring or summer day! If you struggle to find warm weather shoes that look as elegant as they feel, try one of the orthopedic sandals for women from Vionic sandals, Alegria sandals, Birkenstock, Taos sandals and more.
Sign up to receive new arrival, sale & special event info from us.
Note: we do not share your personal information with anyone. Period.
"I have an ankle fusion and hate shopping for shoes, however, Footwear etc. carries the MBT Shoes - the only shoes I can wear, in many styles and I receive them quickly with no extra fees. I love the free socks they sent with my last order!"
©2017 Footwear etc.. All Rights Reserved. For any questions or assistance call 1-800-720-0572.


text:
|Recent | Best | Popular
|43.80285, -71.83444 View Map Incorrect?
|Page Views:
|Jay Knower, M Sprague, lee hansche, Jeffrey.LeCours, Robert Hall, Kristine Hoffman (sitewide)
|Submitted By:
|Kayte Knower on Nov 26, 2006
|Note: New route moratorium area MORE INFO >>>
|Comments on New Wave
|Add Comment
|Show which comments —
By Ladd
May 9, 2007
|Many of the climbs on the left side of this cliff have a belay bolt, use it if your leader isn't solid at the grade(just remember to not keep you leash too tight).
By lee hansche
From: goffstown, nh
Sep 3, 2009
|Does anyone know what the routes are to the right of 10 of Spades? you know the ones right by the trail to Kennel Wall.... i've climbed them but i don't know names, grades and order of the ones that aren't in the book...
By Jeffrey.LeCours
From: New Hampshire
Sep 4, 2009
The internetz have told me that they might be:
Night Crawler - 5.9 (Balancey slab moves)
Schist Another Crack - 5.7 (trad gear to tree)
... but maybe someone who knows what they're talking about can confirm :)
By lee hansche
From: goffstown, nh
Sep 4, 2009
|thanks jeff but i think those are the ones in the old book.... there are now 3 bolted routes here im not sure if one is the 5.7 trad route thats been retroed... but i dont think so... anyway, thanks for your help and i guess we will keep researching, then i can finish my New Wave map :)
By Hannah W
Aug 15, 2010
|I found an extendo draw with blue/black webbing, a purple petzl spirit carabiner on one end and a yellow black diamond carabiner on the other end at new wave yesterday. Please let me know if it's yours and I will try to get it back to you.
By Jay Knower
From: Campton, NH
Aug 29, 2014
|Does anyone know what's up with those anchors between Sally's Alley and Black Dog Crack? They're up and right of the Sally's Alley anchors on a steep face right below the top. Thanks!


text:
- Artist: Jayden Frost
- Format: CD
- Release Date:7/19/2005
|your cart is empty
JAYDEN FROST Songwriter/Vocalist/Musician In 2006, Jayden Frost took the temporary position as the voice and face of a well known pop band called WHEN IN ROME on their year long extensive US tour bringing his positive energy to stage performance, radio interviews and television. Some of the acts that Jayden has shared the stage with include: Devo (Whip It!), A Flock Of Seagulls (I Ran), Bow Wow Wow (I Want Candy), The Psychedlic Furs (Pretty In Pink), Animotion (Obsession), Deborah Gibson (Only In My Dreams/Foolish Beat), and Tommy Tutone (867-5309). Jayden felt right at home on some of the best stages in the country. Some of the venues Jayden has recently performed at include: The Greek Theatre (Los Angeles),The Bill Graham Civic Auditorium (San Francisco), City Lights Pavilion (Denver, CO), Reliant Center (Houston), Fair Park (Dallas). Under a pen name, Jayden also co-wrote "Country Girl by DF DUB that reached Rick Dee's weekly top 40 in 2004, and was the most requested song from that year on Dallas' 106.1 KISS FM. Jayden is now pursuing his dream of being a CCM artist, and will release a new album in the Summer of 2007. Check back here for more details!


text:
Dr. Austin Flint married Elizabeth Henshaw, 1785, he was an eminent physician; lived in Petersham, afterwards in Northampton, and, for several years before his death, in Springfield MA; died at Leicester MA, Dec. 11, 1846. Dr. Flint is noticed in the body of this work. Issue:
Discover your
family's story.
Enter a grandparent's name to get started.
choose a state:
Start Now
- Joseph H. Flint, b. April 20, 1786
- Sally Flint, b. June 5, 1787; m. Calvin Spear of Boston. Edward, b. Nov. 7, 1789.
- Elizabeth C. Flint, b. May 3, 1792; m. John Clapp.
- Waldo Flint, b. Sept. 4, 1794; is noticed in this work; President of the Eagle Bank, Boston.
- Laura Flint, b. Nov. 1, 1796.


text:
Happy Winter Veil!
There have been 8 Femtaur Mondays so far now and I thank you all for your continued support of this site. I absolutely ♥ writing for Femtaur.com and look forward to many more posts!
Today is normally when a Femtaur Monday has shown up but, in light of the holidays (and the fact that I will be spending tonight and most of tomorrow with family), I would like to give you:
A Femtaur Winter Veil Adventure!
First things first, one needs to look proper to go see Great-father Winter.
Annabee is now dressed for the occasion with her:
Red Winter Hat
Red Winter Clothes
Winter Boots
Miniature Winter Veil Tree
Red Rose
Annabee equipped her:
Gaudy Winter Veil Sweater
and (wonderfully matchy)
Stormrage Legguards
And headed off to the lovely home of Garrosh!
Baine Bloodhoof was much happier to oblige and him and his guards listened to some Femtaur caroling:
I hope you all have a wonderful Winter Veil in and out of Azeroth!
Happy Holidays from Femtaur.com!
♥ Aune


text:
Barbara Campbell (Dalton/Koonts)
ETOILE, TX: Barbara Ann Campbell of Etoile, Texas, formerly of Zanesville, Ohio was promoted to heaven on Monday, March 25, 2013 at 4:44 pm. After a 5 year battle with leukemia, Mrs. Campbell spent her last few days at The MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas.
She was born on April 23, 1947 in Zanesville, and was the daughter of the late Wendell and Ann Dalton. Barbara was a 1965 graduate of West Muskingum High School. She was a member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church until she and her family moved to Nacogdoches, Texas in 1985.
Surviving are her husband Jaimie Campbell of Etoile, TX; her daughter Deidre Hinze of Conroe, TX; her son Derek Koonts (Carol) of Tomball, TX; grandchildren Jasmine Koonts, Katie Koonts, Reagan Hinze, and Sydney Hinze; sister Diane Graham (Roger) of Zanesville; brother Wendell "Punkie†Dalton (Andi) of Westerville; and her pets Kallie, Buddy, and Misty.
A celebration of life service will be held at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Nacogdoches, TX on Saturday, March 30. There will be a graveside service on Monday, April 1 at 11:00 am at Memorial Park Cemetery in Zanesville with Pastor Larry Kudart officiating.
Bryan & Snider Funeral Home 2318 Maple Ave. is assisting the Campbell family.
To share memories and messages with the family, visit Barbara's memorial page at www.BryanSniderFuneralHome.com
Barbara Ann Campbell
04/23/1947 – 03/25/2013
Barbara Campbell (Dalton/Koonts)


text:
How I know Chris Brown didn't do it
The comedian Paul Mooney has this theory that you know Michael Jackson has never actually raped any kids, because all he ever ends up having to do is pay their families millions of dollars. He's been busted for it on a number of occasions, but he's never been convicted.
Yeah, maybe he slept in the same bed with little boys, and fed them wine, and showed them pr0n… but he never fucked any of them in the ass. Word to the Iron Sheik. In the early '90s, they even took pictures of his junk, and none of those lying sacks of shit could pick it out of a lineup. Which makes you wonder how Michael Jackson's johnson varies from any other black guy's unit. Did he have some sort of procedure to make it tiny? Nah, right? That was probably the one black feature of his he decided to hold on to. No Boutros.
Think about it: How in the fuck could a 40 year-old black man fuck several different white kids in the ass over the course 20 years and somehow manage to evade incarceration? The reason he was cutting those people checks is that a) he's got like a billion dollars (according to some guy on Facebook, he secretly owns most people's publishing), and b) he's mentally retarded. If he was really guilty of anything, they would have gotten his money and he would have gone to jail. If he had the sense god gave geese, he wouldn't have given those people shit.
Similarly, I'm convinced that Chris Brown isn't really guilty of any crime stemming from the incident with Rihanna at the Grammys this year. The Rumble in the Lambo, if you will. I'm not saying he didn't put his shoe on her – we've all seen the picture of her with the black eye and the various other scrapes, as if he hung her out the window and dragged her for a few blocks. I'm just saying. The fact that he got away with just a slap on the wrist suggests to me that he was more or less justified in what he did.
I know there's been some confusion as to whether or not all Chris Brown got was a slap on the wrist. Some are saying that the punishment he got was actually pretty severe. They gave him 180 days of community service, plus five years probation. Supposedly, they gave him the choice of spending time in the joint or spending 180 hours picking up trash along the highway, like the Klan, and he chose the latter. Also, since he's technically still a citizen of Virginia, they're gonna let him clean up the highway there.
The five years probation struck a lot of people as particularly harsh, but I'm not sure how bad it really is. Snoop Dogg has been on probation since 1993 and it doesn't seem to have cramped his style very much, despite the fact that he stays getting busted for weed. His rap sheet is longer than Michael Jackson's gerkin, but if you notice, he never actually spends the night in the pokey. Of course, Suge Knight claims it's because he's down with 5-0, like Q from World Star, but it's probably just because the law out there in California understands that weed is a victimless crime.
Some douche in the comments section of my own site was trying to claim that Chris Brown's handlers never would have accepted such a deal, unless they thought there was a possibility that he'd have to do some serious time behind bars. To which my response is this: If Rihanna's people thought there was a real possibility that Chris Brown might be going away for a while, why would they have offered him a deal in the first place? Wouldn't it have been better for her image, if he actually spent some time in jail. With him getting off easy, it lends credence to the theory that he acted in self defense.
Then I've heard some people claim that Chris Brown and Rihanna's people actually worked together to get the best deal for Chris Brown. Which actually wouldn't surprise me, since Chris Brown and Rihanna somehow probably ultimately work for the same guy, even if they aren't on the same label. But if I was Rihanna (nullus), I would have been like, "Hold on a sec. This douche all but took me on top of a building and dropped me off. Why should I be offering him a deal?" Unless she just didn't understand what was going on, because she never learned how to read, I doubt her ego would have allowed her to agree to some shit like that.
Nah, the judge probably listened to both sides' arguments, realized that Chris had to get a little rough with her to keep her from crashing the Lambo and killing both of them, and let Chris off with a slap on the wrist. The slap on the wrist was because he didn't have to go as hard on her as he did. More often than not, if you just raise your voice at a woman, she'll back down. And shaking her wouldn't have left any visible marks. Indeed I'm not cosigning what Chris Brown did. I'm just saying. If Chris Brown was so unjustified in what he did, he should have been punished accordingly. The fact that he wasn't lets me know he isn't the monster people would have you think he is. Belie' dat.


text:
Author: Bobjj123
Published: 23-Mar-10 Revised/Updated 26-Aug-17
Print: Print This Story
At that moment Anne stood before him, tall and beautiful and he had to touch her, to possess her, to feel her flesh close. He grabbed her and embraced her and kissed her and fondled her butt and let out an animal-like groan...
* * * * * * *
Hank Strauk sat quietly nursing his beer at the end of the bar in the Blue Bell Bar and grill. Several men and two women occupied places at the tables in the room; otherwise, save for the bartender, the room was empty. The two women Hank recognized as regulars at the bar and probably just 'hooked up' with the two men who were seated with them.
One more beer and Hank would go to the grill and order his dinner. Two beers after work; then dinner, and back to the bar for some stronger libations before going home to bed. The routine hadn't varied in the three weeks since he'd arrived in this city,
Hank had once been gregarious and the life of every party but his last tour in Iraq had changed all that. He had gone to war to fight. . .and fight they did! He saw his fellow soldiers killed by terrorists who looked like any civilian. He had been ordered not to shoot civilians! The fighting had been fierce and when it was over, he had been charged with shooting innocent civilians. . . a charge never proven but one that ended his army career.
As he returned home, he found his wife changed. . .no longer a kindred spirit and helpmate. She had a life with their kids and there was no longer any room in that life for Hank. He sent family support money each month but no longer saw his wife or kids.
Hank had grown morose and kept to himself after that! His job paid exceptionally well and he had a six figure income along with generous perks as he performed it well. Fact was that he was close to a millionaire due to some wise investments. He was not a happy man.
So it was on the night of August 6th when Hank had finished his dinner and was starting his second G. & T. In the bar. From his usual spot at the end of the bar he was surprised to see a beautiful, tall, dark haired woman walk in. Such women, of obvious class, seldom entered the Blue Bell Bar and Grill. His interest was piqued!
He observed the woman step in to the room, survey the half-dozen patrons carefully and walk to a table near the back corner where she seated herself as the bartender moved from behind the bar to take her order.
With covert looks he managed to ascertain that she was tall, with a creamy complexion, perhaps thirty years old. She was drinking a G.&T. Then, something else attracted his attention and the woman was forgotten.
It was as he arose to leave the bar that the woman motioned for him to join her and mostly out of curiosity, he moved towards her table. Their eyes met as he approached and something in the woman's eyes told him she was trouble. On the other hand, she was attractive and Hank was a man!
As he reached the table, the woman arose and said, "Hi! I'm Anne. Come and have a drink with me. . .Gin and Tonic, isn't it" Hank sat with her as he noted that she'd been observing him as he'd been watching her. This might prove to be more interesting!
"Well Anne, What brings you to the Blue Bell Bar tonight" Hank asked.
"I guess you could say that I'm looking for some company," Anne responded.
"Not much in the way of company in here."
"Why! You're here and drinking G. & T. with me. Are you married"
"Was once but it didn't work out. How about you"
"Was once but it didn't work out!"
A Hank continued to talk to her, small talk mostly, he assured himself that see didn't belong in the Blue Bell. She was much too refined and intelligent to be comfortable around the clientele of the Blue Bell; yet, she was sitting there, obviously uncomfortable and tense. Finally, he put his thoughts into words, "You obviously don't belong her. This is not your type of place; yet, you are here and obviously uncomfortable. Why"
The woman known to him as Anne responded slowly, "I want you with me tonight. I want to take you home with me."
Hearing this Hank was not only puzzled but now he felt the gnawing ache of concern in his stomach. He replied, "Look Anne, you're a beautiful and intelligent woman and you could have most any man you wanted from men of your own ilk! Why are you here propositioning me Believe me when I say that I'd follow you anywhere if there was a promise of having you but, why me"
"Come home with me and you shall have me. I promise you!" Anne replied and her demeanor had changed to fearful and trembling. Her eyes spoke of fear. "Please," she said quietly.
Half an hour later, Hank accompanied Anne into her small apartment as he sensed Anne's mounting fear and concern. He hesitated before taking off his sweater as though he might turn and go only to have Anne grasp him and kiss him on the lips. "Don't go,"she said as she turned to go make coffee and dessert!
Then, with food and drink to calm them, Anne seemed to relax. She worked at making Hank comfortable and catering to him. As they talked and grew familiar, Hank found that he really liked this woman known as Anne. For the first time in years he began to take an interest in something. His hormones were evident as he felt a tinge of lust.
It was when Anne arose to refresh their coffee cups and bent over to retrieve the cups that two shots rang out and the sound of the bullets passing through the window and into the wall sounded. Had she remained standing, she'd have been killed!
Instinctively, both Anne and Hank had dived for the floor to escape more shots. Then, after a time, Hank stood and placed the sofa on end across the window to stop any further bullets. He turned and angrily face her as he said, "Now, What the hell was that all about"
Anne spoke firmly as she said, "It's better you don't know. Please get out of here as fast as you can and don't look back."
"What and leave you here for who ever's out there to kill. No. You're coming with me!" He had just picked a hell of a time to be chivalrous! Then Hank said, "You can tell me what's going on as we travel." Having made the split second decision, he felt his own recrimination. . .this matter, whatever it was, was really none of his business. Too late! He was committed.
So it was that five minutes later, the two were in Hank's truck traveling north on the interstate. Anne began explaining the situation to him.
Anne had been married to a lawyer for the mob! At first it was great as he brought home huge paychecks and they'd lived well. Her husband had gradually taken up the mob's ways and lost all sense of morals or ethics as he also had taken a couple of mistresses which Anne wouldn't tolerate. She'd left him and hurt his pride as he swore vengeance on her. He'd placed an offer of $100,000 for her death.
She had gone to the Federal Authorities for protection in exchange for what she knew about her husband's business. Those authorities had gladly taken her information before sending away to fend for herself. They had frozen all her accounts save two small credit cards and she was left with only a few dollars.
It was then that she'd hit on the idea of going to the Blue Bell and offering herself to induce Hank to stay with her as a sort of unwitting bodyguard. It had worked and she felt safe until the shots into the apartment. The rest, he knew.
An hour later, Hank steered the truck off the freeway, into a commercial center where he bought groceries and supplies before continuing on to a local road and several miles later he turned again into a small lane leading into a box canyon. A mile further brought him to a small log cabin of recent vintage. There, he parked the truck and produced a key to open the locks on the cabin door.
The cabin had been built before he'd deployed to Iraq, during better times, as he and his army buddies erected this kit-built cabin on it's concrete foundation and floor. He had intended it to be a family cabin but his wife hadn't much cared for it so it had been seldom used.
It was near morning when the two were comfortable in the cabin and a fire had taken the chill off the mountain air. They slept, fully clothed on top of the master bed. When Hank awoke, he found Anne gone from the bed and smelled the odor of food cooking.
Then, as Anne continued her work, Hank pulled the rug back and went to the floor cabinet where he unlocked the dual locking system and opened the hermetically sealed container. From there he produced two high powered rifles and ammunition. This time the target might well be men and not deer!
As the cabin was slowly made more livable, Hank and Anne began to think of themselves and their personal needs. Anne washed her panties and bra. There was only one toothbrush which they decided to share. Near the end of that day, Hank began to feel like his old self again as the mountain air and the company seemed to elevate his spirits. . .
During the late afternoon, Hank made a tour around the cabin, checking for any possible item that might add to his defense if the matter arose. He noted that a car could be heard approaching from miles away. There was no ground cover under the heavy forest canopy for at least a hundred yards in all directions. The mood would be full during the coming nights.
Shortly before supper, as he went into the cabin from outside, Hank saw Anne installing sheets on the master bed. He said something about there being sheets for the other bed in the closet and Anne flashed him a shy smile as she said, "I don't think we'll need two beds."
"You know, you don't have to do this now that I know the story."
"Well, what if I sorta' want to do it anyway"
"You'd make me the happiest man in this universe." Hank said as he made a broad grin. It was at that moment that he felt an urge - an urge so strong that it simply overwhelmed all other reason or thought. At that moment Anne stood before him, tall and beautiful and he had to touch her, to possess her, to feel her flesh close. He grabbed her and embraced her and kissed her and fondled her butt and let out an animal-like groan. . .
Of course, Anne, feeling trapped in his embrace, tried to resist only to be overcome by Hank's superior strength. Strangely, though she was being possessed by Hank, she didn't feel like he was raping her; rather, different somehow! Then, she realized that it had been her intention to seduce him just minutes before and with the realization she quit her struggle and returned the kisses as she embraced him and caressed his bare arms.
Then, when Hank felt her resistance fade, he began to release his grip on her. Instead, he concentrated on his love making; something he hadn't done in a very long time. Suddenly he was glad that he'd foolishly involved himself with this woman even if it got him killed. He felt more alive than he could ever remember. . .even before Iraq!
When their eyes met, Hank saw real lust for the first time. She was lusting after him!
Shortly, their surge of lust and passion had abated sufficiently to allow them to complete making the bed and commencing their dinner even as they touched and bumped and caressed and made love with their eyes.
It was a good feeling, being close to Anne, and Hank was enjoying it to the fullest when he heard the noise. . . a car was approaching. He reached for his rifle and listened as the car approached; then, passed the entrance to the cabin and disappeared.
The intrusion of the passing car into Anne and Hanks foreplay had a calming effect. . .some of the lust was gone! Instead, they ate dinner as close friends, talking intimately from time to time.
Then, as they were cleaning up dinner, Anne became serious. "They'll find us, you know. Then, they'll probably kill us. I want you to know how much I appreciate what you've done but, in the morning, I want you to go and forget me."
"Forget it Babe! I haven't had this much fun since Iraq. Besides, there's some benefits!" he said as his adoring eyes told her what those benefits were!
"Look! You're a nice guy and I like what you're feeling but you're putting your life in danger."
"Come to bed with me."
"I thought you'd never ask!"
"You first in the bathroom"
"I thought we might shower together. . . you know! Sort of get acquainted."
A minute later, they walked, hand in hand, to the small bathroom and, without words, began undressing each other. At first it was a simple task; then, as more and more flesh was exposed to view, it became more exotic. Hank's eyes were constantly adoring Anne's perfect body - her well toned muscles and perfectly shaped bone structure. A bit heavier that a runway model, she had all the other tributes. Her breasts were small and perfectly formed - possibly a C-cup! Her normally creamy flesh was beginning to glow red with excitement!
Anne, on the other hand, was admiring Hank's lean and lanky body. It was firm and muscular and rather hairy - the sign of a real masculine man to her! Mostly, she was concerned with Hanks appraisal of her. Here she was, past thirty and lacking that youthful blush, baring herself before him. This was not the first time she'd ever undressed in front of a man but this time she wanted, more than ever before, to please him!
It was when they moved at the same time to remove Hank's boxers and Anne's panties that an awkward situation developed and they lost their balance. They fell to the cold bathroom floor in a tangle of bodies. Laughing as they began to untangle themselves, their eyes met. A powerful message passed between them. The message was unquestionable! It was time!
"Do it to me now," Anne spoke as she lay back on the bathroom and bedroom floor and drew Hank out of their tangle and over her, between her splayed knees.
"Are you ready," Hank asked as he felt Anne's fingers guiding his rigid cock into her vestibule. A look into her eyes told Hank all he needed to know.
With a few minor adjustments, Hank's cock slipped easily into her love tunnel to commence it's way deep inside her. Anne was prepared with generous lubrication . . . Her heart and mind were prepared as well as she welcomed Hank into her.
With his member came the realization that this was not a one night stand but a commitment of her heart and mind as well. A few hours ago this was of no matter as she was simply fucking to repay a debt. Now, things had changed and she wanted to bring his heart and mind o her as well. She wanted all of him as he apparently wanted her. It wasn't part of her plan!
It was simple biology that prevailed as the two lovers were caught up in the pleasures of simple coitus. They were good together. They belonged together!
When Hank exploded his load into her depths it had been totally anticipated and unexpected as he had no time to give warning. Anne, feeling the effects of his orgasm, received his load at the very moment that she was about to peak herself.
A minute later, they lay together, still joined by Hank's now flaccid cock and a bond stronger than any physical restraints. In their lover's embrace, they felt the peace and serenity that comes with the afterglow.
"Was it good for you" Anne asked.
"Is the pope a catholic . . .of course it was the best!"
Then, they lay in silence, each basking in the attention of the other.
It was near morning when Hank awakened Anne. He'd heard noises. Two cars had approached and stopped a half mile down the road. A third was approaching their lane. "Get dressed," he said and stood, himself fully dressed and with rifle in hand. "Go out the back door and run uphill, not towards the road." Hank ordered and Anne was gone. Then, Hank moved outdoors to the woodshed.
When the car puled up in front of the cabin, voices conveyed orders and communications to the apparent leader in the big limousine. Then came word, "CABIN'S EMPTY. THEY MUST HAVE HEARD US COMING." Followed by some profanity from within the limousine. Then, the order came from the limousine, "They can't have gone far. Find them."from his vantage point in the woodshed, Hank was able to determine that all but the chauffeur and the boss remained in the area. . .inside the big bulletproof machine. He devised a plan.
As the chauffeur slept in his drivers seat, the boss sat quietly in the rear. Hank left his hiding and approached the car from behind where he reached the door and slipped inside to face the boss. He'd said simply, "Don't make a sound or I'll kill you" Then, he turned to the sleeping driver and delivered a head blow that assured the driver would never move again.
They waited.
An hour passed and eventually the thuds in the employ of her husband returned her bruised and cut to face the boss in the limousine. "Put her in here," a voice said from within." She was passed into the limo and the door shut and locked. She turned to face her husband ans seeing Hank she exploded. "Bastards!," she said as Hank said simply, "Is this your husband" and she replied that it was.
Then, Hank instructed the husband, "Tell your goons to go home. That they're no longer needed tonight. Then insist that they do it because your life depends on it." The order was given and soon, only Anne, her husband and Hank remained in the forest - and goon number one who suspicion that something might be amiss, had remained covertly to observe.
It was the goon's mistake as Hanks army training served him well. . . As he moved towards the limousine in an attempt to rescue his boss he felt the bullet pierce both legs. The goon fell.
Then, with he distraction, Anne's husband bolted from his car in an attempt to win his freedom. Three steps into his flight, a bullet struck him directly in the groin and he fell.
It took most of the day to get the authorities fully informed on what had happened. The sheriff's office, ecstatic at having nabbed the biggest crook ever, handled the details. . . even filling in their own details when the story seemed incomplete. The members of the press, who handled the story seemed content with their talks with the Sheriff, and Hank and Anne were left in obscurity.
Back up in their cabin, Hank and Anne relaxed from their ordeal and decided to spend a day or three just relaxing and exploring their new relationship. They laid in supplies for an extended stay hoping to replenish the supplies they'd exhausted during their stay, Then, it was October and they made plans for the winter's four months of winter isolation.
With spring, the couple emerged from their hibernation rather bored with animosity between them - animosity born of too much togetherness, i.e., cabin fever! Had there been a desire to do so they might have worked to heal the breech between them but there simply wasn't.
Hank saw a bright future in his profession in the city where he could renew old friendships and live comfortably. He'd wanted to resume his life as it once had been many years ago - before Iraq and his family breakdown!. Anne had a different plan as she wanted to move far away to start over where old acquaintances and connections to her past were far away. It'd been a few months of mutual love and healing in the cabin together. Then, it was over.
EDITOR: Why not try your hand at writing erotica? It's 100% free to have your story published by us - Details Here.
Comment on, discuss, or provide feedback to the author by starting or joining a discussion. Story authors appreciate your feedback and encouragement, please take a moment to let them know that you read their story, and what you think of it - Discussion Guidelines
Submit a story - Writers of adult fiction who want to share with our readers are welcome to send us their stories.
Finding What I Hadn't Known I Was Looking For - Kimiko Komatsu
My Buddy's Mom and Her Daughter - Kelsey Wayne
One Summer Holiday - Owlman
My Wife's Future Maid of Honor Has No Honor - Van Kleve
I Made My Cousin a Sissy Bitch - Kelsey Wayne
My Wife's Future Maid of Honor Has No Honor - Van Kleve
Summer with Sister - Kelsey Wayne
What the Neighbour Saw - Kirk Deighton
The Kilt is Her Delight - Kirk Deighton
Revenge at the Red Bull - Melody
How to Locate the Female Clitoris


text:
F1 Fanatic - F1
This topic contains 30 replies, has 26 voices, and was last updated by Girts 5 years, 8 months ago.
This is a really difficult question.
I don't read tabloids but I also don't ignore the news on drivers' private lifes completely. For instance, I am interested to know whether my favourite driver has a girlfriend (or a boyfriend – now that would be something :D), when he is getting married or when his wife is expecting their first child. So I like to get to know something not only about Heikki Kovalainen but also about Kate Hyde and their relationship but normally I get this information from their own tweets or interviews.
If a driver that I like and respect was caught cheating his wife / partner… well, I admit that I would be disappointed. I certainly don't think that 'family' is just an empty word and it's terrible when a family falls apart like that. On the other hand, I would also be careful when judging him as it is simply impossible to know all the circumstances and make a judgement based just on the information from media.
You must be logged in to reply to this topic.


text:
Don't miss out on a lower price on this hotel
Get an overview of this hotelFamily-friendly hotel with full-service spa and restaurant
Popular property highlights
This family-friendly Aviemore hotel is within 1 mi (2 km) of Rothiemurchus Estate Visitor Centre, Speyside Wildlife, and Cairngorm Brewery. Craigellachie National Nature Reserve and Loch an Eilein are also within 3 mi (5 km).
Hotel Features
Along with a full-service spa, this hotel has a restaurant and an indoor pool. Free WiFi in public areas and free self parking are also provided. Additionally, a health club, a bar/lounge, and a sauna are onsite.
Room Amenities
All 108 rooms offer free WiFi, coffee makers, and TVs with satellite channels. Hair dryers, phones, and ironing boards are among the other amenities that guests will find.
Guest Highlights
- Good location
- Breakfast
- Pool
- Helpful staff
- Clean guestrooms
Macdonald Aviemore Hotel
Hotel Amenities
Hotel Amenities
In addition to a full-service spa, Macdonald Aviemore Hotel features an indoor pool and a health club. The hotel offers a restaurant. A bar/lounge is on site where guests can unwind with a drink. Wireless Internet access is complimentary.
A business center is on site at this 4-star property. 10 meeting rooms are available. This family-friendly hotel also offers a sauna, a children's club, and tour/ticket assistance. Complimentary self parking is available on site.
- Ski passes available
- Conference center
- Wedding services
- Express check-in
- Tours/ticket assistance
- Spa treatment room(s)
- Conference space
- Luggage storage
- Number of meeting rooms - 10
- Business center
- Express check-out
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Children's club (surcharge)
- Supervised childcare/activities (surcharge)
- Total number of rooms - 108
- Number of floors - 3
- Bar/lounge
- Breakfast available (surcharge)
- Front desk (limited hours)
- Full-service spa
- Health club
- Free WiFi
- Children's club
- Laundry facilities
- Elevator/lift
- Gift shops or newsstand
- Garden
- Restaurant
- Year Built 2000
- Free self parking
- Sauna
- Shopping on site
- Ski storage
- Steam room
- Indoor pool
Family Friendly Amenities
- Family Hotel
- Indoor pool
- Free Wi-Fi
- Laundry facilities
- Playground on site
Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi
Free self parking
Room Amenities
- Pay movies
- Shower/tub combination
- Phone
- Free toiletries
- Coffee/tea maker
- Daily housekeeping
- Private bathroom
- Hair dryer
- Iron/ironing board
- Television
- Satellite TV service
- Free WiFi
- In-room climate control (air conditioning)
- Connecting/adjoining rooms available
Where to Eat
Full breakfasts are available for a surcharge and are served each morning between 7 AM and 10:30 AM.
Macdonald Aviemore Hotel has a restaurant on site.
Nearby Things to Do
Recreational amenities at the hotel include an indoor pool, a health club, and a sauna.
Children under 16 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool, health club, or fitness facility without adult supervision.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.
- Rafting nearby
- Sledding nearby
- Mountain biking nearby
- Windsurfing nearby
- Snowboarding nearby
- Ski lessons available nearby
- Ski equipment rental shops nearby
- Golf lessons available nearby
- Surfing/boogie boarding nearby
- Downhill skiing nearby
- Cross-country skiing nearby
- Water skiing nearby
- Sailing nearby
- Fishing on site
- Golfing nearby
- Hiking/biking trails nearby
- Bicycle rentals on site
- Playground on site
Spa Services
Vital Spa has 4 treatment rooms. Services include massages, facials, body wraps, and body scrubs. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including aromatherapy and Ayurvedic.
Children under 16 years old are not allowed in the spa without adult supervision.
- Massages
- Body treatments
- Facial treatments
- Number of treatment rooms 4
- Manicures and pedicures
- Body wraps
- Body scrubs
- Aromatherapy treatments
- Ayurvedic treatments
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please note them at check-out when you book your room.
Hotel Policies
Check-in time starts at 4 PM
Check-in time ends at 9 PM
Minimum check-in age is 18
Check-out time is 11 AM
Payment types
Children and extra beds
- Children are welcome.
- Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
- Cribs (infant beds) are not available.
- Pets not allowed
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy.
Optional extras
- Fee for full breakfast: GBP 19.50 for adults and GBP 12.50 for children (approximately)
Hotel Name
- Macdonald Academy Aviemore
- Macdonald Academy Hotel
- Macdonald Academy Hotel Aviemore
- Academy Hotel At Macdonald Aviemore Resort Scotland
- Macdonald Aviemore Hotel
- Macdonald Aviemore
- Macdonald Aviemore Hotel At Macdonald Aviemore Resort Scotland
- Macdonald Aviemore Highland Hotel Aviemore
We should mention
Reservations are required for massage services and spa treatments. Reservations can be made by contacting the hotel prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation. The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation.
National Rating
This establishment has received its official star rating from VisitScotland, the National Tourist Board for Scotland.


text:
Hello everybody,
I've just approved requests for new modules, unfortunately some requests as old as August 2011.
I'd like to apologise for our lack of commitment to approving new modules in the last months.
In our defence, there was a nasty bug stopping the approval, and it took me over two hours to track down.
Turns out its not a good idea to mark 25k forum members in your approver group and create a DataObjectSet from them...
So again, sorry it took so long - and please check out the new modules, there's some awesome work in there!
All the best


text:
Christoph Hilfiker, born 1970 in Basel/Switzerland, is serving as a senior fund manager with LLB Asset Management in Vaduz/Principality of Liechtenstein. He's responsible for the research and the equity management of the Pacific region. Prior to joining LLB Asset Management, he was responsible for the European equity management at Münchner Kapitalanlage AG/Munich. He's the author of articles in several magazines like fund research, The Smart-Investor and The European Value Investor. He studied business law in St. Gallen (HSG) and completed his education with a MBA at the European Business school (EBS). He earned his CFA qualification in 2006. From 1994 until 1998, he was serving as a captain in the Swiss Air Force.
On Mar 11, 2011, a massive earthquake hit Japan. The earthquake that hit Japan was far worse than the ones...
Investors panicked and Japanese stock market tanked.
Three myths about Japan:
It is impossible to make money in Japan/Japanese stocks are for trading not investing.
Bruce Berkowitz — Go to places that people are running away from or ignored.
Buy at the points of maximum Pessimism — John Templeton
Frequently, something out of the blue like this, an extraordinary event, really creates a buying opportunity. I have seen that happen in the United States, I have seen that happen around the world. I don't think Japan will be an exception. — Warren Buffett, Korea, 04/11
LLB has basically made money in the past 13 years in Japan.
In 2000, I was in Munich and a speaker made the bullish case to buy gold, everyone laughed.
Myth #2 Weak economy = weak stock market.
This is not true. There is no positive correlation between GDP growth and the real return from its stock market.
Over the long run, there is not a positive association between a country's real growth in per-capita GDP and the real returns from its stock market.
Looking at 83 countries over 110 years, there is no evidence that investing in growth economies produced superior returns.
Sources: "In Triumph of the Optimists," 2006, Dimson/Marsh/Staunton, London School of Economics.
Many companies have transformed themselves into supra-national entities whose fortunes are entirely independent of their domestic market; a significant number of Japanese equities are world leaders and lot of them are incredibly cheap.
Myth #3 Shareholders don't count.
In the last two years, dividends in Japan rose more than in any other developed country.
Cross holdings in Japan have decreased in Japan over the years.
Net debt of Japan is 114% of GDP, 4x tax revenue, which is not nothing but not too scary.
94% of public debt is domestically held, which is a good thing.
If economic growth is picking up, the revenues may well rise faster than any increase in debt services.
Now Japan is a playground for value investors.
Japanese market is trading below book value.
FCF yield is almost 10%
Dividend yield is 2.6%
Japan has a higher FCF yield than EM, US, Europe, etc.
Analysis over the 60 years shows that FCF yield has predicted returns the best for Japanese market.
Earnings revision — over last two months market was revising lower and lower, we think now that earnings will be revised upwards.
We start with a quant. model of 5,000 stocks, 85 data points P/S, P/E, corporate actions.
Afterwards we want to determine intrinsic value.
Project profit margins slightly forward (too far forward is not predictable).
We ask does the company have a moat?
Is there free market industry?
Is the industry economically viable? If no we look at liquidation, if yes we look for firms with moats so we look for earnings power value. Earnings Power Value (EPV) = adjusted book value x ROIC/R, such as Sumitomo Corp. If economically viable but no moat we look for free market entry, reproduction cost; an example would be Sony.
Nippon Paper Group 3893 JT
We look at liquidation value since business is decline.
It is very simple business to understand.
We value the assets and liabilities.
Look at restoration costs of the Ishinomaki Mill.
We look at current ratio, quick, coverage.
No. 1 in the Japanese paper market, rivalry with Oji.
The market is not dead, but shrinking, low growth.
It is a simple business and we understand it.
Assets and liabilities can be valued with great precision (tangible); we do not consider licenses, brand values, distribution networks, advertising, subsidiaries.
Restoration costs of the Ishinomaki Mill (after Tohoku) are known.
Current Ratio (1.2), Quick Ratio (0.7), Coverage Ratio (2.8), debt to equity ratio (1.3) do not signal any threat or inefficiency problems.
Free cash flow yield is over 20%; P/B 0.4.
ROIC FY 3/11 is 6.5%, coc FY 3/11 is 3.6% (not a value trap, not a cash burning machine).
No capital dilution in the last 10 years.
We see the cost of capital is very low.
Company is trading at 55% below liquidation value.
Sony 6758 JT
People are running away from it.
Tohoku and data leak will cost Sony about JPY 18 billion. Since March however Sony market cap went down 800 million.
You will not believe it, but it's true, Sony earns the cost of capital (ROIC FY 3/11 6.3% (JPY 362.2 billion in valuation reserves treated as one off), coc FY 3/11 2.9%).
Free cash flow yield is over 22.9%, cash to equity over 35%, P/B 0.6, no capital dilution since 2005.
Current Ratio (0.98), Quick Ratio (0.42), Coverage Ratio (4.3), debt to equity ratio (1.9) do not signal any threat or inefficiency problems;
It does not have a moat or franchise.
We look at marketable securities, and investments.
Add LIFO reserves.
Treat R&D as capital investment and depreciate over five years.
Intangibles only look at distribution networks.
Company is trading at 57% below intrinsic value.
Sumitomo 8053 JY.
Sumitomo has a big franchise and is the most attractive value stock in our universe.
Sumitomo is one of the leading general traders.
Has strengths in fields of steel pipes and nonferrous metals (copper, gold).
Has a large property rental income (after the land revaluation act, the big land holdings in Tokyo are valued at book).
Very strong financial holding and steady management.
High entry barriers (very old contracts and business ties).
Current Ratio (1.5), Quick Ratio (0.9), Coverage Ratio (5.2), debt to equity ratio (1.8) do not signal any threat or inefficiency problems.
One of the leading channel traders.
Sumitomo has a sustainable franchise.
Has strength in steel pipes and non-ferrous metals.
Cost of capital is below 5%, ROC is over 15%.
EPV indicates that the company 70% undervalued, using DCF the company is even cheaper.
One of my biggest mistakes is selling Nintendo in March 2007 when it reached IV and the stock climbed another 70,000 yen. Now you can buy it for 16,000 yen.
Patience and being rational is very important for investing.
Q&A: How is cost of capital so low (even with Japan's low interest rates)?
For us it is important that the company earns that cost of capital. The diff between cost of capital and ROC is the multiplier.
Do you look at future? To predict the future is very difficult, I do look at it though. But for me to see how strong the balance sheet is, is the most important thing.
Disclosure: None
Christoph Hilfiker, born 1970 in Basel/Switzerland, is serving as a senior fund manager with LLB Asset Management in Vaduz/Principality of Liechtenstein. He's responsible for the research and the equity management of the Pacific region. Prior to joining LLB Asset Management, he was responsible for the European equity management at Münchner Kapitalanlage AG/Munich. He's the author of articles in several magazines like fund research, The Smart-Investor and The European Value Investor. He studied business law in St. Gallen (HSG) and completed his education with a MBA at the European Business school (EBS). He earned his CFA qualification in 2006. From 1994 until 1998, he was serving as a captain in the Swiss Air Force.


text:
|[Home Page] [This Week] [Classifieds] [Legals] [Obituaries] [Newsstands] [Subscriptions] [Advertising] [Deadlines] [About Us] [FAQ] [Archives] [Community Links] [Contact Us]
Guilderland Archives The Altamont Enterprise, April 28, 2011
Expert to help GCSD improve scheduling
By Melissa Hale-Spencer
GUILDERLAND This summer, Elliot Merenbloom, an expert on school schedules, will work with district administrators "to improve the way that we utilize time at all three levels of our schools," Superintendent Marie Wiles told the school board at its April meeting.
When Wiles, who started as Guilderland's superintendent in October, presented her $89 million budget proposal in March, she said she was committed to reviewing, before the next budget cycle, the district's administrative structure, its use of time in scheduling, and building use.
"Will we always need five elementary schools?" she asked, noting that graduating classes number over 400 students while incoming classes are below 300.
"I am pledging to you a commitment to do some real study soon," Wiles told the crowd at the March budget presentation. After the meeting, she told The Enterprise she hoped to have the studies underway this spring. On scheduling, she said, "Our structure is very expensive; it requires us to be staff rich."
"Form follows function is the idea," she said, using a phrase coined by American architect Louis Sullivan and popularized by his apprentice Frank Lloyd Wright. "We need to start with what we want to accomplish and design backwards," said Wiles.
Merenbloom, an educational consultant, will be in Guilderland on July 13 and 14 to work with administrators and then return in the fall, Wiles said, to work with "stakeholders."
The first focus will be on goals for students, and then on rethinking the time available, she said.
She referred to Merenbloom as "one of the best in the nation."
He has co-authored with Barbara A. Kalina a book called Making Creative Schedules Work in Middle and High Schools, published in 2006. The workbook focuses on reorganizing around smaller schools or "houses" and structuring longer blocks of learning time.
Farnsworth Middle School currently uses a house system and Guilderland High School has a block schedule with long periods for classes.
In 1991, Merebloom's book, The Team Process in the Middle School: A Handbook for Teachers, was published.
Other business
In other business at its April 12 meeting, the board:
Heard from German students who are staying in Guilderland homes for several weeks as part of an exchange program started six years ago by high school teacher Hanna Hickey. "Coming to America was one of my biggest wishes," said a 17-year-old girl from Germany;
Heard congratulations from Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Demian Singleton for Albert Cartegenes who won the Lori Tansky Award for his large three-dimensional sculpture called "Bird," made from recycled soda cans;
Learned that the Farnsworth Middle School team came in third in the state in the Math Counts contest. Bill Dong scored fourth in the state and will compete nationally in May. Out of 224 students, William Wang came in 19th, Alicia Chen came in 37th, and Jeremy Collison came in 94th. Team alternate Michelle Yu also did well;
Learned that middle- and high-school students won awards at the Regional History Day with first- and second-place winners competing April 29 in the state finals at Cooperstown.
For Junior Individual Website, Sarah Jones (whose topic was the Yalta Conference) took first place; Jeremy Brislin, second (Civil War Diplomacy); Jeremy Collison, third (Treaty of Nanking).
For Junior Group Website, Abigail Bemis and Lindsay Garrant won first place (Home Rule in Ireland).
For Junior Individual Documentary, Sean Quinn won first (Candy Bomber); Ashley Visker, second (Child Labor); and Noah Douglas, third (War Refugee Board).
For Junior Group documentary, Shannon Gerety, Kerry Gerety, and Hayley Kmack won first place (Elvis and Opposition to Rock and Roll).
For Junior Paper, Bill Dong took first (Cuban Missile Crisis); Benjamin Goes, second (Civil War Diplomacy); and Michael Zhu, third (Nixon's visit to China).
For Junior Individual Exhibit, Sindhu Mateti took first (Bayard Rustin/March on Washington); and Zoe Elwell, second (Presidential Order 9066).
For Senior Paper, Michelle Kang won first (Cuban Missile Crisis); and Zubin Mukerjee, second (Atlantic Charter).
For Senior Group Exhibit, Abigail Schnoor and Joy Jing won first (Chinese Exclusion Act).
For Senior Individual Performance, Cody Ingraham took first (Ben Franklin Diplomacy).
Also, Michael Zhu and Ashley Visker won the Best Use of Primary Sources Award for their research, donated by the New York State Archives Partnership Trust; each will receive a savings bond;
Heard from Wiles that Farnsworth was designated a "Rising School to Watch" by the State Education Department, which she said meant it was on the way to being a top-level school. After a March visit by a Schools to Watch team, recommendations were made "to be even better," said Wiles;
Received policies to review on board, school, and budget committees; on attendance; and on purchasing;
Approved agreements for emergencies under which Guilderland would provide shelter for Schoharie, Voorheesville, and Mohonasen students as well as for residents of Fountain View in Guilderland. In turn, Voorheesville and Mohonasen would provide emergency shelter for Guilderland students;
Approved Benetech, Inc. to act as the third party administrator for tax sheltered annuities for the 2011-12 school year for an estimated fee of $11,000. Assistant superintendent for business Neil Sanders said Benetech was "very responsive and up on regulations"; and
Met in executive session to discuss negotiations with these units Guilderland Employees' Association, Non-Instructional Supervisors/Other Management Personnel, Guilderland District Office Confidential Personnel, Guilderland Teachers' Association, and Guilderland Principals' Association.


text:
The 4.7-litre 426hp V8 and six-speed manual stay, but the six-speed Sportshift automated manual is now replaced by the seven-speed Sportshift II from the Vantage S. The Vantage's chassis also gets quicker steering (15:1 compared to 17:1), bigger brakes (380mm two-piece ventilated cast-iron front discs and six piston calipers as well as hill-start assist) and wider tyres.
There are visual tweaks too, including a lower bumper - complete with an aerodynamic splitter - that houses a larger air intake. At the rear there's a new (working) diffuser and what Aston calls 'race-derived' side sills.
Both the Vantage coupe and roadster get these tweaks, and the car now starts from £84,995. The Vantage S continues largely unchanged, meanwhile, at £99,995.


text:
Other SureCare product(s)
- Description
SureCare Fluff and Polymer Underpads provide heavy absorbency for incontinence protection for bed mattresses and furniture. Manufactured by Medtronics, formerly known as Covidien, Sure Care Fluff and Polymer Disposable Underpads are made with a spunbond non-woven top sheet and a fluff core for heavy absorbency. A polypropylene backsheet protects against leaks. The topsheet of these underpads allows fluid to pass through to an absorbent core. The Sure Care Fluff and Polymer Underpads come in a light blue color backsheet.
Sure Care Fluff and Polymer Underpads Features & Benefits
- Heavy absorbency.
- Fluff core material.
- Moderate odor control.
- Waterproof backsheet.
- Spunbond non-woven top sheet allows fluid to pass quickly into the absorbent core.
- Polypropylene backsheet protects against leakage and resists melting.
Sure Care Fluff and Polymer Underpads Speicifications
- Sure Care Fluff Underpad Product Numbers: 1552MD.
- Sizes: 30 x 36 Inch.
- Backsheet Color: Light Blue.
- Backsheet Material: Polypropylene.
- Topsheet Material: Spunbond Non-woven.
- Absorbent Core Material: Fluff.
- Application: Underpad.
- Disposable.
- Manufacturer: Covidien (Medtronic).
- Brand: Sure Care.
- UNSPSC Code: 53131639.
- HCPCS Code: T4541.
- This product is required to be reported under California Proposition 65.
- Additional Information
Additional Information
Manufacturer Covidien Sub Brand SureCare Absorption Heavy Backsheet Material Plastic, Waterproof Odor Control Moderate
- Reviews
- Community Q&A
Product QuestionsNo questions yet. Be the first to ask the question!


text:
Remember Fags? They were the white sticks of candy with red tips in a small packet which looked kind of like cigarette lollies for kids. They are now known as Fads and no longer have the red tip which made them look like a lit cigarette.
The old version of these sweet treats would be illegal in Western Australia today because of a section under the state's Tobacco Products Control Act that prohibits the sale of any food, toy or other product that is not a tobacco product but is designed to resemble one.
It was this law that saw Perth father Vincent van Heerend's home raided in 2011, which kept him in and out of courts for almost three years and eventually brought before WA's Supreme Court.
He was not selling lolly cigarettes but electronic cigarettes, a product also known as 'vapes'.
Mr van Heerend was found guilty of breaching the act in April and fined on Tuesday.
The 33-year-old, who works in IT, started an online business to sell the product after he said he struggled for years to quit smoking and then found an answer in vapes.
He said the product helped him quit smoking and thought by selling them through a website he would be able to help others and make a bit of extra cash.
But without the Therapeutic Goods Administration approving the product as a nicotine cessation product, it would be illegal for it to be marketed in that way.
His lawyer Michael Parella denied this approach to the judge in Tuesday's case. Rather, Mr van Heerden had simply "pointed out the benefits of the product" and he was unaware it may have been illegal to sell the product.
While Justice Janine Pritchard accepted that Mr van Heerend was not aware he was doing something illegal, "ignorance of the law is no excuse".
The case centred around 58 e-cigarettes Mr van Heerend had in his possession for sale online.
The version of vapes he was selling did not use nicotine, although the health effects were still discussed in the appeal case.
Mr van Heerend told journalists outside court on Tuesday that the ingredients in the e-juice used in the vapes, such as glycerine, were available in supermarkets and were the same four ingredients used in Nicorette Quick Mist, a nicotine cessation product that is approved by the TGA.
He also said he did not think the product he was selling resembled a cigarette... it was not white with a red end or anything that looked like a filter.
Despite this Justice Pritchard, in her sentencing remarks, said the products Mr van Heerend had been selling gave the idea that smoking was "desirous".
An image of an attractive woman holding an e-cigarette (but not the kind that Mr van Heerend was selling) was referred to in final submissions regarding this point.
While van Heerend's guilty verdict does not make it illegal for individuals to use such products, it does set a precedent in WA and will surely act as a warning for others considering selling the item.
The matter is not as clear in other states, where the issue has not been tested in court but could have ramifications in New South Wales for example, where the Health Department has been closely monitoring the WA case.
Australian Council on Smoking and Health president Mike Daube has previsouly told Fairfax Media that people could face serious risks if e-cigarettes bypassed standard safety processes.
"Marketing of e-cigarettes is taking us back to the worst days of tobacco promotion," he said.
"These products and claims made for them should... not distract us from getting on with the action we know works in reducing smoking."
Justice Pritchard took into account that Mr van Heerend did not continue to sell the items after the raid during sentencing.
She acknowledged that he was unlikely to commit another offence, which would breach the act.
The offence carries a maximum fine of $10,000.
Mr van Heerend was fined $1750 and ordered to pay more than $14,000 worth of costs.
Despite his lawyer's plea to give his client a spent conviction on the basis that it could affect his future job prospects, this was rejected.


text:
Decision a 'great relief'
Learning that Interior Secretary Ken Salazar ruled in favor of closing Drakes Bay Oyster Co. was a great relief to me. This divisive battle has been waged far too long and has wasted too much taxpayer time and money. Despite all the backroom politics, the public was finally granted the promise made 36 years ago to revert Drakes Estero to wilderness status under the oversight of the National Park Service.
Thank you, Mr. Salazar.
Cindy Jordan, San Anselmo
Bagley: Fight goes on
It is understandable but unfortunate that all the media, electronic and print, state that the oyster farm has an upland use permit "allowing it to grow and harvest oysters in Drakes Estero" (IJ, Nov. 30). I am sorry but this is wrong and misleading.
Oysters grow and are harvested in the water, in the Estero, pursuant only to a state lease and allotment that exists and would continue until 2029. This is expressly stated (July 11, 2012) by the independent and constitutionally constituted state Fish and Game Commission, which controls the state's ongoing tidelands jurisdiction. Oysters grow and are harvested in the water, not on dry land.
The effort to save the oysters goes on. A group of national and statewide law firms will continue the legal cause to prevent this wrongful federal takeover, my national law firm included. Not at all incidental, the California Constitution (Art. X, Sec. 4) prohibits any entity "claiming or owning" frontage on any bay or estuary from excluding "right of way to such water whenever it is required for a public purpose." The state's estero lease yearly revenues obviously involve a public purpose.
Bill Bagley, San Rafael
'Feeling of big brother'
I hope Interior Secretary Ken Salazar has had a chance to read our local papers to understand the anger and disappointment his decision has caused the majority of the people here.
I am an easygoing 74-year-old lady and I don't even like oysters but find for the first time I don't like this feeling of big brother deciding what affects the locals. You could have at least given Lunny's operation a five-year extension to get the oysters harvested. It brings to mind "Don't Tread On Me."
Janice A. Baker, Mill Valley
'What horse manure'
The IJ headline on Nov. 30 was "Oyster Farm Must Go."
What horse manure, I say. The Interior Secretary "must go."
What most people don't realize is that the existing ranches were allowed to operate in the Point Reyes National Seashore as a compromise to get the rest of Congress to pass the funding legislation to purchase the lands for a park. Our local congressional representatives fought hard to get this passed because many of the Eastern legislators were opposed to the funding. But through the compromise, the funding for purchasing the property was approved.
What has changed? Our Interior Secretary says the ranches can stay, but not the oyster farm. Our leaders in Washington say, "We need to support small business in the U.S. as they are the backbone of our economy." So the secretary gets rid of one. I for one, don't believe what our leaders say anymore. There is a dreadful smell coming from Washington.
J. Dietrich Stroeh, Novato
A student's perspective
As a young college student and a sixth-generation resident of Marin, I have witnessed outrage over the actions of Interior Secretary Ken Salazar regarding the Drake's Bay Oyster Co. Many of my friends have used social networks to express their disdain for this intrusive and authoritative act by the federal government.
As we all know, Marin County is well known for its liberal politics and fondness of large government programs. This taking represents just that, big government. The actions of Salazar are a devastating blow to the economy of western Marin County and very little can be done to stop it. The government is the "gun in the room," so to speak. The business owners cannot defend themselves.
There is a distinct level of hypocrisy in regard to the amount of outrage that I have witnessed. The policies of the elected officials in Marin, the state of California, as well as the Executive Branch of the federal government, put forth these intrusive actions. The people of Marin are happy to go along with it until it comes to their front door. If the people of Marin want their businesses to thrive without being stripped to the bone by the federal government, then smaller, privatized and more community oriented politicians must represent us. This is not a case for Republicanism or even Libertarianism for that matter, but a case for self-reliance and accountability.
Joseph Perticone, Nicasio, 22, studying political science at Arizona State University
'Lunnys made a deal'
Has anyone ever thought that Kevin Lunny should have told his crew that they might be out of work when the lease was up? And don't the Lunnys have a very successful, not to mention delicious, organic grass-fed beef farm operation in the park where he could house or hire these people? Isn't there Lunny Paving to help? My husband also needs a job and so do some of my neighbors. None are looking to the wilderness to be responsible for hiring them.
And couldn't Mr. Lunny share some of that $1.5 million he makes yearly with his employees?
This was never about jobs, science, food source, what have you. The Lunnys made a deal. It is time to shut down the business like they agreed to, and shake hands over the fence and get back to healing the bad relations in the community and go on with our lives. And won't the taxpayers of this country be relieved not to pay anymore for this battle.
Kate Carolan, Inverness
Farm deserved more time
I was disheartened to read about Interior Secretary Salazar's decision to not renew the Drakes Bay Oyster Co. operating permit. His statement: "We've undertaken a robust public process to review the matter from all sides, and I have personally visited the park to meet with the company and members of the community" rings hollow. Evidently he was totally unbiased right up to the "11th hour" and then made a heartfelt decision after his visit to the oyster farm. It was showmanship at best.
A truly win/win decision would have been to extend the permit a final 10 years. No evidence of harm from the oyster farm was ever presented. It was also a historic establishment serving many local generations. But no. False accusations touted by the National Park Service and "environmentalist" organizations to thousands upon thousands of unwitting members ruled the day; politically, and most, important, ignorantly. Would 10 years matter environmentally when no harm was ever shown? But perhaps 10 years would matter politically, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar.
But beyond this incident I can only hope we, and the thousands of unwitting members, take a closer and scrutinized look at what is in store for us in the future from the oversight and political influence of certain environmental organizations parading "necessary environmental decisions."
Everything we need to know on a subject does not come from a newsletter from our favorite organization(s) — look further. You might actually discover some truth.
Jim Ellis, Stinson Beach
'The American Way'
Let's see. Clean up an existing environmental nuisance, invest hard-earned capital to create a clean, healthy, "green" business, hire 30 plus employees to help stimulate the economy, pay taxes and then get booted by the federal government. That's the American Way.
Bob Crottogini, Kentfield
Decision 'no surprise'
I guess that it comes as no surprise that Interior Secretary Ken Salazar ruled against the family-run Lunny oyster farm. After all, would the White House truly listen to the needs of a small business that provides a quality product and good jobs to citizens while having a negligible, if any, impact on the environment?
Or would the Interior Department side with overzealous environmentalists and dogmatic government bureaucrats that do not contribute anything to our GNP?
The important question that remains unanswered is how our country will support itself once small businesses disappear, leaving behind only the environmental activists and a bunch of government employees supported by taxpayer financed pensions.
Michael Sillman, Larkspur
Disconnected voters
As I read the whining letters about the closure of the local oyster farm I thought, "How blind are these people." Many angry writers were acknowledged liberals, dismayed by the loss of this small business and the associated jobs.
What troubles me terribly is that not a single commentator recognized that they are at fault for voting for the Democrats responsible for this action. There seems to be a total disconnect wherein these voters don't understand that the politicians they elect are solely responsible for the closure of this business and the consequent loss of jobs and a valuable local resource. Until voters wise up we are doomed to more travesties like this.
William Ward, Kentfield
Appalled environmentalist
I am appalled at the decision to close Drakes Bay Oyster Co. What on earth was Ken Salazar thinking? He clearly wasn't paying attention. And what's up with his weak blood money exchange to extend ranching leases from 10 to 20 years? Is that supposed to make us feel better?
If the Lunny family is up for it, I commit to helping organize a "stay in place" protest. Anyone else angry enough to commit to camping out on that land, risking arrest, etc., in order to make our support of the business known to the National Park Service, the Sierra Club and the Environmental Action Committee of West Marin?
I consider myself a hardcore environmentalist, but this decision is abysmal.
At the very least, I urge a boycott of the Sierra Club, a massive letter writing campaign to the NPS and shunning of the Environmental Action Committee of West Marin.
And, finally — really? Amy Trainer, executive director of Environmental Action Committee of West Marin, is "ecstatic" and Michael Brune, Sierra Club director, is "thrilled."
You two should be ashamed. Your comments are out of line, insensitive and smack of highhanded elitist conceit.
To the Lunny family — if there is anything I can do, sign me up.
Liz Froneberger, Fairfax


text:
Coal Valley (GNIS FID: 116306) is a populated place located in Walker County at latitude 33.74 and longitude -87.418.
The elevation of Coal Valley is 367 feet. Coal Valley appears on the Oakman U.S. Geological Survey Map. Walker County is in the Central Time Zone (UTC -6 hours).
Walker County: Cities & Towns | ZIP Codes | Features (airports, churches, hospitals, etc.)
BIG Map |
Driving Directions |
Data Source - USGS GNIS FID: 116306
BOUNDARY MAPS: Oakman Division | Walker County
Oakman, AL
(2.4 miles SE)
Parrish, AL (7.7 miles E)
Jasper, AL (10.2 miles NE)
Berry, AL (11.8 miles WSW)
Carbon Hill, AL
(12.2 miles NNW)
Kansas, AL (13.5 miles NW)
Cordova, AL (13.5 miles E)
Key Hill, AL
(1.4 miles S)
Stephenson Crossing, AL (2.7 miles S)
Hayes Crossing, AL (3.1 miles SSW)
Marietta, AL (3.1 miles SSE)
Kings Mill, AL
(3.4 miles E)
Dixie Springs, AL (3.4 miles SE)
Patton, AL (3.4 miles SW)


text:
And, of course, the fine print:
Get free shipping on your next order when you spend over $100. The discount will be automatically applied to your purchase; no promo code required. The subtotal of your purchase must be $100.01 or greater after any promotional discounts have been applied. Additional fees such as tax or shipping and handling do not apply toward your minimum subtotal requirement of $100.01. Offer applies to standard shipping only. Certain items that require additional shipping and handling are excluded from this promotion and do not apply towards your $100.01 subtotal minimum. Offer subject to change.
Finish setting the table with these vintage-inspired salt and pepper shakers, featuring two pig heads. Each pig is slip-cast in porcelain clay and fired to a velvety matte finish. They're also food and dishwasher safe, to use often rather than displaying on a shelf.
- Set of 2 shakers
- Cast porcelain
- Food and dishwasher safe
- Pigs measure about 2" x 2" x 2" each
This product ships from the maker within 7 days, via USPS
If you're not happy with this item for any reason, you may return it for a full refund within 14 days.


text: The ENC History Department will present a free lecture Oct. 15 on the role of religion in the American Revolution. The public is invited to attend.To be held at 3 p.m. Friday Oct. 15 in Shrader Hall, the lecture by historian Thomas S. Kidd will be based on his new book, God of Liberty: A Religious History of the American Revolution. The lecture will be the inaugural presentation of ENC's Donald S. Metz Lecture in American Christian History. Named for noted scholar and ENC alumnus Dr. Donald S. Metz, the program will present a free, annual public lecture on the ENC campus by a noted religious historian.Kidd, an associate professor of history at Baylor University, is a premier scholar and author of a number of books on religion in colonial America. His books include The Great Awakening: The Roots of Evangelical Christianity in Colonial America as well as American Christians and Islam: Evangelical Culture and Muslims from the Colonial Period to the Age of Terrorism. The co-director of Baylor's Program on Historical Studies of Religion, Kidd won a 2004 summer stipend from the National Endowment for the Humanities and was selected for the 2004-2005 Young Scholars in American Religion program.


text:
On the Road to the Mountains: The Fruit Stand
I went to Rwanda with a very small group of specialty coffee people in June, 2003.
My role in Thanksgiving Coffee had never been one of blazing trails in countries of origin. In fact, none of us had traveled to Africa up to that time. I was quite nervous about not having the skills such an undertaking warranted. But it seemed like a given that I would accept the invitation, which came to me almost as throwaway after it's original invitee declined because of overwhelming commitments to works in progress. A rather amazing list of reasons I had to go forced me to ignore all the reasons I couldn't. The experience was unlike any in my life, the rewards and pleasure ongoing.
Of course, the thread here is coffee, and Rwanda's specialty coffee is fabulous. The coffee that we buy from our long time friends in the Dukunde Kawa Cooperative is part of the thread of this beautiful story that follows. I am so happy that the coffee we purchase from Rwanda's small-scale growers, and roast with great care has had a small part in the realization of the Akilah School. I wish every school in the world had a Leadership and Ethics Instructor.
-Joan Katzeff
Just back from a "buying trip" to Nicaragua. It has been four years since I was last there. The farmers reminded me of that, much to my surprise. I was surprised by many things this time. How so much has changed at the Coffee Cooperatives, and how so little has changed in the market places we visited in each city we entered. Our trip took us from Managua North, to the mountains. Matagalpa first , then Jinotega and Estili on nights three and four. Then back to Managua, the capitol city and the flight home.
We tasted and selected some really fine coffees. There were seven of us on the trip. We travelled in two Toyota pick ups (not on the recall list) so the musical chairs of deciding who to travel with got us all in sync.
The biggest change I noticed was the growth and progress of the coffee cooperatives themselves. In the four years since my last visit , their capacity to handle giant amounts of coffee grew exponentially. They all acquired more land to dry coffee and had built new warehouses, coffee receiving stations, and office space. I will get into that in tomorrows blog.
What did not change were the local peoples markets. That is what was fascinating to me. Where the local urban "Poor" spend their money , and how the merchants create their shops, and who they sell to and at what prices is worth taking a look at. First off, there are two economies, the dollar economy with it's imported electronics , cars, boom boxes and cameras that sell at the same prices as you would expect in the USA, and the Cordoba economy based on their local currency where a pound of rice is 8 cords, or .40 cents U.S. The tortillas these ladies were pounding out were 20 for 10 cords.(2.5 cents each).
It was 10 am when I took these pictures at the Managua Central Market, a 5 acre indoor open air market with a thousand seller stalls selling everything from locally made shoes, pottery, household wares and food. It was a market you could get lost in. The ultimate mall.
Feast your eyes on these three pictures. They are rich in culture, color and the human spirit. More tomorrow.
Paul Katzeff
2009 was a busy year for the Mirembe Project and 2010 is shaping up to be even busier. A feature in Smithsonian Folkways Magazine, new computers for the PK Cooperative management, and a showcase of Mirembe Kawomera "Delicious Peace" coffee at the Wild & Scenic Film Festival in Nevada City has gotten this year off to a rolling start. This project continues to grow, build, and change and you are an integral part of it. Thank you for your continued support.
PKC Gets New Computers
In December, I sent an appeal to some of our supporters asking that they consider donating money to the Cooperative to support the purchase of new computers for PKC's growing staff. This was a unique request from Thanksgiving Coffee. Ordinarily, we don't have channels to manage supporters' charitable donations. However, in this case there was a very specific need from the Cooperative and we were able to coordinate a community leader to spearhead this effort. Many thanks to Debbie in San Jose for being the central point of organization and for the final effort to make sure the money made it to Atlanta in time to be carried to Uganda. Six communities came together to support this fundraising effort. We were successful in raising $885, enough to purchase two new desktop systems for the Coop's seven person staff!
On January 31st, a friend to Thanksgiving Coffee Company as well as the PK Coop, carried $455 to Uganda and later this week $430 more will be wired from Evanston, IL.
We are so grateful to the folks that came forward to support this effort: the Jewish Reconstructionist Community of Evanston, the Unitarian Universalists Congregation in Santa Rosa, Congregation Hakafa in Winnetka, the Center for Spiritual Living in San Jose, Temple Beth Hatfiloh in Olympia, University of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, and a few individuals.
On behalf of the folks at the Cooperative, many many many thanks! These new computers will aid in significant improvements in operations and organization.
Mirembe Kawomera "Delicious Peace" featured at the Wild & Scenic Film Festival
The Wild & Scenic Film Festival is an annual event in Nevada City. Over the course of three days, hundreds of environmentally focused films are shown – from features like Food, Inc. to smaller independent work such as Tapped (a compelling film highlighting issues with the plastic water bottle industry and water rights). Thanksgiving Coffee Company was approached to be a sponsor and we realized this festival was a great fit and a great location to promote Mirembe Kawomera "Delicious Peace" coffee as well as the trailer for the upcoming documentary "Delicious Peace Grows in a Uganda Coffee Bean" by independent film makers Ellen Friedland and Curt Fissel.
Mirembe Kawomera Delicious Peace coffee was served all weekend at five concession venues around town and the trailer was shown three times with Jenais and Ben available to speak briefly at two of the showings. The audience was enthusiastic about the coffee, the project, and the trailer.
Learn more about the festival and view the four minute trailer that was edited specifically for Wild & Scenic 2010.
The Music of PKC Highlighted in Smithsonian Folkways Magazine
For the last few years, our friend, Rabbi Jeffrey Summit from Tufts University, has made three trips to visit the farmers at the Peace Kawomera Cooperative. One primary focus has been field recording the music of PKC's coffee farmers. Rabbi Summit recently wrote a piece for Smithsonian Folkways Magazine about his work. It's a great article about music as a means to communicate information, some of the challenges of trying to record in the field, as well as the tremendous labor required by the farmers. Below is an excerpt from his piece but please take a look at the full article:
"There is only one way for an excellent cup of Mirembe Kawomera coffee to get to my kitchen in Massachusetts, and it starts with a farmer in eastern Uganda walking into the field, looking carefully at a coffee tree, and picking the scattered coffee cherries that have ripened. Time is of the essence: cherries must be picked within a three–to–four–day window of ripeness. After picking, the cherries are sorted, washed, hand–pulped, dried, picked over, and bagged to be taken to the cooperative office. My fieldwork has made me acutely aware of this web of connection between us and coffee farmers in Uganda…"
– "Mirembe Kawomera (Delicious Peace) Coffee, Music and Interfaith Harmony in Uganda" Jeffrey Summit, Smithsonian Folkways Magazine, Winter 2010
profession d ducateur sp cialis Cialis No Prescription medical cialis
complaints regarding generic cialis Cheap Generic Cialis 36 hour cialis


text:
Heineken Slims Down
By Grocery Headquarters Staff
Heineken USA is introducing a slim can format in the premium price segment. Beginning March 1, 2014, Heineken will roll out 8.5-oz. Slim Can 12-packs at retail outlets across the country, just in time to capitalize on the spring/summer and on-the-go outdoor occasions. "The 8- to 8.9-oz. can size experienced explosive growth in 2012, growing 356% in case volume and 522% in dollar volume and now represents an 8.2 million case segment and growing," says Belen Pamukoff, brand director. "Forty-two of that growth is generated in the c-store channel where the 8-oz. can format is outpacing all other sizes and is a preferred pack size among ethnic consumers. We are excited to now offer shoppers Heineken 8.5oz. slim cans, the first premium 8.5-oz. format that caters to the growing Hispanic and African American demographic who prefer upscale beer and Heineken to mainstream counterparts." Pamukoff continues, "The 8.5-oz. can is the perfect size for outdoor and sports-viewing occasions. The smaller can size ensures a colder liquid per serving while Heineken's superior taste and contemporary upscale pack graphics provide consumers with a premium and memorable beer drinking experience."


text:
The Lost Girls of Rome (Hardcover)
Mulholland Books, 9780316246798, 432pp.
Publication Date: November 19, 2013
A grieving young widow, seeking answers to her husband's death, becomes entangled in an investigation steeped in the darkest mysteries of Rome.
Sandra Vega, a forensic analyst with the Roman police department, mourns deeply for a marriage that ended too soon. A few months ago, in the dead of night, her husband, an up-and-coming journalist, plunged to his death at the top of a high-rise construction site. The police ruled it an accident. Sanda is convinced it was anything but.
Launching her own inquiries, Sanda finds herself on a dangerous trail, working the same case that she is convinced led to her husband's murder. An investigation which is deeply entwined with a series of disappearances that has swept the city, and brings Sandra ever closer to a centuries-old secret society that will do anything to stay in the shadows.
About the Author
Praise For The Lost Girls of Rome…
"The crime novels imported from Europe in the last few years have been a mixed lot, too often favoring atmosphere over plot, but in his second book Donato Carrisi strikes the balance perfectly...Sandra and Marcus are both likeable and intelligent, and the book's multiple storylines find their resolution nicely."
-Charles Finch, USA Today (3/4 stars)
"Masterful. With each chapter, THE LOST GIRLS OF ROME jumps from one plotline to the next, back and forth between the present and one year ago. Carrisi uses this device to full advantage, building suspense to almost unbearable (and perhaps supernatural) levels, all the way to a truly surprising ending."
-Bruce Tierney, BookPage
"Very well written. Reminiscent of books like Carlos Ruiz Zafón's classic The Shadow of the Wind, Carrisi's work has a dreamy, other worldly feel about it; the prose is literate, lyrical, knowing, dense without being wordy, erudite without being pretentious."
-Hank Wagner, Mystery Scene
"With references to the Monster of Florence, a medieval serial murderer, and a secret Vatican sect, Carrisi's literary thriller draws readers into a labyrinth of evil. Carrisi writes beautifully [and] intimately appreciates Rome, its chapels, its narrow alleyways, its fountains and gardens. A powerful psychological drama."
-Kirkus Reviews (starred)
"With a lot of separate subplots, intricate details, and twists, this novel has plenty for readers to follow, but those who can keep up will be rewarded with a satisfying conclusion."
-Library Journal
"One hell of a ride. This story screams high tension, high stakes and high velocity. Superb."
-Michael Connelly
"Brilliant and very creepy. A great book."
-Ken Follett
"Donato Carrisi has a unique gift for blending fascinating forensic detail, mind-bending plot twists, and empathetic characters into a seamless, powerful narrative. THE WHISPERER intrigues, informs, and haunts simultaneously, a novel that will linger in the mind long after you've finished."
-Michael Koryta
"Brutally awesome--Thomas Harris by way of Ian Rankin."
-Will Lavender


text:
The Macauley Culkin Gay Mess
This just keeps getting weirder. Then of course Paris Hilton has to join in the fun, along with Simon Rex and Nick Carter. You must check out popbytes for all the salacious details.
A couple comments on the whole deal.
- If this is true, it's very creepy how much Jeffrey Brunner and Macauley Culkin look alike.
- While I completely believe Simon Rex swings both ways; Jeffrey Brunner"
- There's always been the Nick Carter gay rumor as well – which now seems more of a bisexual rumor, given the Paris/Nick sextraviganza tape.
- If there's a sex tape of Simon Rex and Jeffrey Brunner. Once again I question; Jeffrey Brunner?
- If there's a sex tape of Macauley Culkin and Jeffrey Brunner, my question is: "why have sex with a virtual twin?"
So I"m calling the whole bunch bisexual, sans the gay Brunner and the heterosexually whorish Hilton.


text:
Style: 40112948 Color Code:
Gently exfoliate and polish skin's surface with this facial scrub. Crafted from food-based Certified Vegan and organic ingredients, this formula clarifies and tightens pores while nourishing the skin to its restored radiance.
Pangea Organics
Pangea Organics believes that plants are powerful. By utilizing the latest scientific methods to extract plant-activated formulas, Pangea Organics delivers products that are both ecologically sound and full of natural integrity.