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The Giants waived/failed physical TE Jake Ballard and re-signed DT Rocky Bernard, the team announced on Monday.
Ballard played in 14 games with 13 starts last season, catching 38 passes for 604 yards and three touchdowns. He had two catches for 10 yards in the Super Bowl before tearing his ACL in the third quarter.
Ballard also underwent microfracture surgery to repair cartilage, as reported in April by the Bergen Record. Giants TE Travis Beckum also tore his ACL in the Super Bowl. The team signed ex-Cowboy Martellus Bennett and drafted TE Adrien Robinson.
Bernard played in all 16 games last season with one start. He recorded 30 tackles, three passes defensed and one forced fumble. The 33-year-old has been with the Giants since 2009 after playing for the Seahawks from 2002-09.
The way we see it
Ballard shredded his knee and has a long road back, and clearly the Giants think he's at least a year away. It's a tough break for a player who was a crucial figure, especially in the first half of last season after the loss of TE Kevin Boss. The Giants remain fairly thin at tight end and have no long-term fixtures proven at the position.


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Dim Chris
Dj Center superstar Dim Chris is back with "You Found Me", a new single with the UK icon Amanda Wilson! The worldwide biggest Djs like David Guetta, Tiesto or the Swedish House Mafia are already supporting him, remixing his tracks (Afrojack and Avicii for the anthems 'Love Can't Get You Wrong' and 'Sometimes I Feel) or playing them during their shows (Pete Tong or Judge Jules for BBC Radio 1).
Discovered in 2005 by Joachim Garraud through the competition "Young talents producers" which he emerged victorious, Dim Chris has experienced increasing success multiplying the productions and remixes on labels both French and foreign. Now playing in the best clubs around the world, he earned his world-traveller status imposing his style during successful live performances, sharing emotion with clubbers and mixing his set in his productions and remixes as well as its favorite music.
The Singles
His numerous tracks released on known labels such as PoolEmusic (Antoine Clamaran's Label), Cyper Prod, Unlove Records (Greece), Blowmedia (Hatiras' label, Canada) or Stoneyboy Music (Stonebridge's Label, Sweden) or remixes he did for different artists of the Parisian club scene are always getting excellent feedbacks.
In April 2007, Dim Chris signs "French Kiss" on the famous French Independent Label DJ Center Records (more especially on the sub-division Paradise Recordings), getting his name alongside very famous artists such as David Vendetta, Kurd Maverick, Roger Sanchez, John Dahlback, Chris Lake…
The following track "Sucker" did get top charted on FG Dj Radio. No more clue was needed for FG DJ Radio to decide to take Dim Chris in its resident dj pool that have the privilege to be broadcasted once a week on the main club and house music French radio station. The single becomes better charted than the big French "traditional" high sellers (Bob Sinclar, David Guetta, David Vendetta…), and reached the Top 15 CD Sales for 15 weeks, with the best position N°5.
In collaboration with Sebastien Drums, Dim Chris released the track "Sometimes I Feel" on Joia/Nero Records, well played by Albin Myers, Avicii, Eddy Cabrera… His single "Self Control" (co-produced by Thomas Gold) was instantly airplayed on Fun Radio in the TOP 40, and is largely supported by other radios around, as well as by Djs such as Laurent Wolf who prepared a remix of the track. Then, Dim released "Change the World" with Kaysee as a singer. Moving on a more sweet production, Dim shows another side of his talent.
The success of "Love Can't Get You Wrong" gave him the opportunity to work with Amanda Wilson for the first time on the release called "Sometimes". Amanda delivered an amazing vocal part on Dim's production and the Poppy/Electro/housy and very emotional track was signed in 15 countries around the world, before its official release!
The Remixes
Dim had lots of remixes proposals. He recently did one for Joachim Garraud ("The Answer"), one for Micah and Schmitz ("Rush", on Robbie Rivera's Label), one for Ron Carroll & Superfunk (Lucky Star 2009).
In October 2010, his remix of "Back To Zero" from Robbie Rivera was instantly played by Tiesto in his Radio show, even before its release date.
Dim Chris has also been chosen among many Djs to be one of the only 5 officially remixing the worldwide hit "Hey-Hey" by Dennis Ferrer (longest N°1 on Beatport ever, released by Defected Records) besides Riva Starr, Tom De Neef, Crookers and Vandalism. His remix has been instantly playlisted by David Guetta, Chris Lake, Dons, Roger Sanchez in their respective Radio Shows (which basically, added, makes a around 200 different radios in the world…).
Live Performance
Getting more and more famous, Dim goes to play all around abroad: Moscow, Riga, Miami Winter conference (Dream Club), Tijuana-Mexico, Odessa…
During summers 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, Dim was part of the Party Fun Tour (tour organized by Fun Radio, N°2 national radio for young listeners), and was touring at the same time in France and abroad (Belgium, Ukraine, Czech Republic, Reunion Island, Luxembourg, Russia…).
Mixing besides KC Taylor (Pacha Resident) the famous compilation "PACHA IBIZA HITS 2010" (and then 2011 with John Dahlback), distributed all around the world and touring intensively in France and abroad during summer 2010, Dim Chris has been seen a lot in the best Clubs (Amnesia - Ibiza / Kadoc - Portugal / White - Liban / High Club - Nice / Sheraton - Alger / 7 - Toulouse / Bloc - Lyon / Villa Bivona - Toulon…).
To Be Continued...
Resident Dj on Fun Radio in 2009, he entered the new Dj Team of NRJ Radio since August 2010, and then came back to Fun Radio in 2011. Resident of Clubbing TV, the club music channel, Dim is releasing in March 2011 a remix for David Vendetta "I've Been Thinking About You"…

subset: commoncrawl


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Featured Resources
Wesleyan students and alumni have full access to Vault.com's online library through the Liberal Arts Career Network. In addition, you can download some of the Vault guides free of charge and get more in-depth job search information.
- STUDENTS: Click here to access WesVAULT through your student portfolio on the "Online Resources & Passwords" page (in the Beyond Campus section).
- ALUMNI: Click here to access WesVAULT through WesNet, the online alumni community, on the "CRC Resources & Passwords" page (in the Resources section).
CareerSearch is a highly searchable database of more than 2 million domestic organizations. Find companies/institutions in the social science industries and in your geographic region of interest, then read a little about them and get connected to their web sites.
Spotlight on Careers is directory of career topics of interest to those interested in the social science industries. Each topic contains background information about a specific career field, internship and job listings, alumni profiles, and more. Off-campus users, get password in advance from your portfolio [students], WesNet [alumni], or via firstname.lastname@example.com.
General Resources
- American Counseling Association
- American Sociological Association Resources for Students
- Careers in Sociology
- Counselors from the Occupational Outlook Handbook
- Environmental Careers Resource Guide from the EPA
- Federal Agencies that Collect Demographic Statistics
- National Board for Certified Counselors
- Social and Human Service Assistants from the Occupational Outlook Handbook
- Social Scientists, Other from the Occupational Outlook Handbook
- Teacher-Postsecondary from the Occupational Outlook Handbook
Criminal Justice
- 911 Hot Jobs (Law Enforcement Jobs)
- Copnet for Criminal Justice Careers
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Federal Law Enforcement Career Resources
- Law Enforcement Jobs
- Police and Detectives from the Occupational Outlook Handbook
- Private Detectives and Investigators from the Occupational Outlook Handbook


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By Doug Ireland
---- — NEWTON — Voters have decided they don't want to spend an additional $4,500 on the town's fire wells, dry hydrants and cisterns this year.
Residents amended few of the 23 proposed warrant articles during the three-hour deliberative session Saturday, according to Selectman Raymond Thayer.
But they did approve an amendment that would have provided $4,500 for the maintenance, repair or installation of the wells, hydrants and cisterns, deciding to only spend $1, Thayer said.
A resident asked what would happen if the money was not allocated, Thayer said. He was told selectmen would take the $4,500 from the town's operating budget, the selectman said.
There were no major modifications to other articles before voters approved them for placement on the March 12, Thayer said.
Among the articles are a proposed $2.9 million budget and a request, through a citizen petition, to increase the Board of Selectmen from three members to five.
The article was proposed by former selectman Lawrence Foote, Thayer said. Foote failed to win re-election to the board in March 2012 and is not running this year.
Selectmen have pushed for a larger board in the past few years, saying more members were needed to handle an increasing number of tasks. Two years ago, an article put forth by selectmen was determined to be invalid because it had to be proposed through a citizen petition, according to Selectmen's Chairman Trisha McCarthy.
Other articles on this year's warrant include proposals to make the highway foreman's job full time, spend $35,000 for a hazardous waste day, build a $52,500 fence at the transfer station, and contribute to community service organizations.
Only 30 of the town's 3,180 voters attended the deliberative session, less than 1 percent.
"We have to find a way to get the residents out," Thayer said.


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Ladies plaid print backpack.Colour: Red. Polyseter. Wipe clean only.
Mi Pac Star Print Duffel Bag
This star print duffel bag by Mi Pac is a cool and casual solution to your autumn winter storage needs.
In playful star print with classic faux suede detailing, this duffel bag is a fun-filled piece to stow away your gym kit, Saturday shopping or gear for an impulsive weekend getaway. An inner zip pocket lets you stay organised, while a padded shoulder strap is perfect for when you're on the move.
Fill this bag with all you need for a weekend away and match the navy canvas with cool denims.
Useful info:
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- All-over star print
- Faux suede bottom panel
- Adjustable padded shoulder strap
- Double carry handles to top
- Inner zip pocket feature
Colour: Black. Polyester.
Colour: Multi. Polyester.


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Faculty Highlights - Jessica Miller
Final Decisions
UMaine bioethicist works with those on the front lines grappling with end-of-life issues
When 41 year-old Terri Schiavo died this past March, 13 days after her feeding tube was removed and 15 years after brain damage left her in a persistent vegetative state, the nation was watching. Millions of people, whether proponents of right to life or death with dignity, will never look at end-of-life issues the same way again.
That's good, according to medical ethicist Jessica Miller. "There is a sense of being able to overcome anything that sort of permeates American culture," says Miller, a University of Maine assistant professor of philosophy and the clinical bioethicist for Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor.
"It's difficult for people to allow the end of life to occur, either for themselves or their loved ones. Some of the doctors I work with say that until we have a national conversation about death and our mortality, we are never going to resolve these problems."
In her experience, people who believe in an afterlife aren't necessarily more willing to let go of this life than those who believe this is all there is. And the end-of-life decisions are often more difficult than they used to be.
"Death has become much more complicated in many ways," says Miller, who studies the moral and ethical issues in medicine and medical research. "For one thing, we now have two different criteria for death. One is the traditional cardiopulmonary standard: If your heart stops and you stop breathing, you're dead. The other standard is brain death. This became possible because people could be maintained on ventilators after all brain function has ceased, and it facilitated organ procurement and donation."
The medical community accepts both definitions of death. But for the family of someone who is breathing–even if the breathing is being done by a machine and there is virtually no chance of recovery–it can be excruciatingly difficult to "pull the plug." It can be just as hard to withhold nutrition and water from someone who is in a persistent vegetative state or to refrain from performing CPR on a terminally ill cancer patient who has a heart attack.
Families often look to physicians or chaplains for guidance in making end-of-life decisions. Some of those decisions, such as whether to withhold treatment or remove a feeding tube, are fraught with ethical dilemmas. Miller's role as a bioethicist isn't to tell hospital physicians and staff what is right and wrong. Rather, she says, "I try to help them identify ethical issues and educate them about different ways of reflecting on ethical problems."
Her point is that no one has a lock on moral or ethical truths.
Miller teaches ethics and bioethics at UMaine, and that makes her an especially valuable resource for hospital physicians and staff, says Rex Garrett, director of Chaplaincy Services at Eastern Maine Medical Center. "It is important to have someone from the academic arena, where both the old discussions and the current discussions are active and alive," he says. "Having that body of knowledge behind her, she can bring in the conceptual reality to help us understand the practical realities."
Every other month, Miller participates in the hospital's Bioethics Grand Rounds, an educational session in which clinicians present an actual case for a panel to discuss. In alternate months, Miller leads an ethics reading group that often includes physicians, nurses, social workers and chaplains.
"Sometimes we don't even get to the literature we had planned to discuss because a physician will come in and start talking about a case that is bothering him (or her)," Miller says. "Or something is troubling a nurse, but she (or he) isn't sure it should be a real concern. I facilitate the discussion and try to help them figure out what their uneasy feelings reflect and what ethical values are at stake."
Having someone to help clinicians grapple with complex ethical issues is much more important than it was even a generation ago, says Dr. Erik Steele, chair of EMMC's Code Committee and chief medical officer for Eastern Maine Healthcare Systems, which includes the medical center. "One reason is that our ability to keep people alive has outstripped our ability to make them well," he says.
"Also, for the past 20 or 30 years, people have had more interest in being able to make decisions about their care, including end-of-life care. So, there is an increasing role for somebody who can help guide us through the ethical, legal and clinical minefields of end-of-life decision making. If I could have an ethicist and a lawyer in my pocket when I make rounds, that would be great. That's how often things come up."
Steele estimates that at least 80 percent of the ethical dilemmas that arise at Eastern Maine Medical Center involve end-of-life issues. Part of the reason is simply that the population is aging, and more people than ever are approaching the end of their lives.
"But it's also because death is so final," Steele says. "You know that if you make the wrong decision, it can have tremendous repercussions, so you work extra hard to get it right."
Steele says that anyone who would like to die in a way that doesn't require the involvement of a bioethicist should have a living will or other type of advance directive.
"When it comes to end-of-life decision making, I think Dr. Miller would like to be like the Maytag repairman," he says. "The day when no one needs her help with that would be a good day."
More and more people are seeking to avoid being kept alive by artificial means against their will and, at the same time, to relieve their families of the burden of making end-of-life decisions for them. By filling out an "advance health care directive," a person can, Miller says, "project their autonomy into an incapacitated future."
The most common type of advance directive is a living will. It enables people to detail which treatment measures, if any, should be taken to keep them alive if they become debilitated and unable to make decisions or communicate their wishes. Living wills are adequate in most cases, but they do have shortcomings, Miller says. They don't always eliminate uncertainty or guarantee that one's wishes will be followed.
"Primary care physicians are being encouraged to have young, healthy patients get living wills, but it's very hard for young people to know exactly which treatments they might want under certain conditions when they are older," she says. "Also, some living wills offer sort of an a la carte menu, so you can specify, 'Yes, I want CPR. No, I don't want antibiotics.' However, a choice like that could put a hospital medical staff in a bind because it might not make sense to resuscitate a person if they can't administer antibiotics to prevent infection."
Doctors and hospital administrators can find themselves caught between the wishes of a patient, as expressed in a living will, and a relative who, as Miller puts it, "advocates forcefully in the moment" for doing everything possible to keep the patient alive.
A better type of advance directive, she says, is the durable health care power of attorney, a legal document that names a proxy to make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. It invests one person with the authority to give physicians and hospitals clear direction. However, if you want that direction to reflect your wishes, Miller says, you need to make sure your proxy knows what your wishes are.
"Whether you have a living will, a health care proxy or just an order about whether to perform certain life-sustaining measures, nothing really takes the place of thinking for yourself and meditating on what life means to you and under what conditions you would want to receive treatment," she says. "Then communicate that to your loved ones and physician."
Nothing that a person does in this life–drawing up a living will or giving someone power of attorney–can guarantee that family members or close friends won't argue about end-of-life decisions. Miller recalls a case in which two sisters had been taking care of their elderly mother for years before her condition dramatically worsened. They decided it was not in their mother's best interest to have more aggressive life-sustaining treatment and that she would not have wanted it.
"Then their brother flew in from another part of the country and said they were just being blinded by their exhaustion and motivated by a desire to be relieved of care-giving," Miller says.
Even if the mother had not designated a health care power of attorney, a living will could have been helpful. "A living will at least gives people a starting point," Miller says. "They can see what your wishes were when you were of sound mind and not incapacitated. Then, more often than not, a discussion in which everybody has a chance to have their say produces consensus if not unanimous agreement."
Since April, EMMC and the other hospitals of EMHS have offered advance directive forms on the Web (www.emmc.org). At last count, more than 10,000 had been downloaded. Maine residents also can find forms on the attorney general's site (www.state.me.us/ag/).
Originally published in UMaine Today magazine, September/October 2005


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The Journalism emphasis at BHSU provides students complete knowledge and skill preparation for careers in the field of print media in the United States, internationally and online. Students will become solidly competent and competitive in today's exciting and diversifying job market in this rapidly paced profession playing a vital role in today's society.
The journalism program focuses on the development of writing, reporting, editing, research, and media management skills, as well as analysis of the press and related emerging communication technologies. Students will also gain knowledge of media law and ethics.
Students will have access to valuable, practical experiences through hands-on participation in the award-winning, student-run newspaper, The Jacket Journal, a member of the Associated Scholastic Press. Student work is also published via the newspaper's online component at BHSUmedia.com, which also features links to the campus radio and television stations. Journalism students work with the most updated technologies and software in a converged media newsroom.
The BHSU journalism program has excellent relationships with media professionals in
the Black Hills region and beyond. Many local to national publishers work with students as interns and employees while they attend the university and as they graduate.
BHSU offers a journalism major, minor, and certificate program.
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Nathan Delfouneso has put Aston Villa back in the lead over Blackpool at Villa Park.
Just minutes before, Delfouneso put away an Ashley Young cross-but referee Anthony Taylor decided that Delfouneso had climbed up Dekel Keinan, and so gave a foul rather than the goal. Rather than complaining, the 19 year old elected to score again, making sure the team knew he was worth keeping around. While Gabriel Agbonlahor warmed up on the sidelines, Delfouneso collected an Ashley Young through-pass and sped past the Blackpool defense. The young striker went one-on-one with Richard Kingson and put the ball in the corner.
After the joyous celebrations of Delfouneso , Agbonlahor was forced to sit back down for a few minutes, but now the speedy Villa striker is on the pitch. Agbonlahor has missed the last five Premier League games with a groin injury, and was warmly welcomed back at Villa Park.


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The University of West Georgia's Richards College of Business was endowed with a gift from the Richards family to support continued excellence in education. This support has been instrumental in our ability to provide students with an educational setting where positive learning experiences prepare them for future positions of responsibility . . .Read More...
Join us at our FREE WEBINAR to learn more about the top-ranked Georgia WebMBA® program. During the Webinar you will find out about admission requirements, how the team-based cohort program works, and information about all of the consortium schools. You will also have an opportunity to ask MBA directors questions about the program.
Register for the September 10, 2014 Webinar (12 noon EST)
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Richards College of Business WebMBA ranked #4 in the Nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Written by current and former Faculty, Staff, Current Students, Alumni and Corporate Partners
In this issue of Business Sense, Richards College alumnus John Horton allowed us to reprint his blog posting about what is really important in business and in life.
"Anything you can do I can do better; I can do anything better than you." is one of the most memorable lines from the song Anything You Can Do which was composed by Irving Berlin for the 1946 Broadway musical, Annie Get Your Gun. The song is a spirited duet, with one male singer and one female singer attempting to out-do each other in increasingly complex tasks. Read More. . .


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As part of the Center's Presidential Fellows Program, each Fellow is required to research, write, and present an original paper on an issue of the modern Presidency. The best of these papers are published in the Center's original anthology, The Fellows Review. Based on the models of two other Center publications, Presidential Studies Quarterly and Triumphs and Tragedies of the Modern Presidency: Seventy-Six Case Studies in Presidential Leadership, these volumes seek to be a transitional aid to incoming Administrations.
You can see the Table of Contents of this publication and download selected sections here. To order, please call 202-872-9800.
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Splashes of conversations in Russian, Armenian and Polish float and disappear into the on-shore breeze, curling around the trill of a flute by the park's rose garden in full bloom. The flutist is a young woman with long chestnut hair. She sits on the same park bench every evening in her summer sweater, answering the colors of the petals with her music.
Quinoa Salad Recipe with Yellow Grape Tomatoes, Kalamata Olives, Basil and Mint
Rub the clove of raw garlic inside a glass or ceramic salad bowl.


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Town Square
Stanford officials look to solve Searsville dilemma
Original post made on Jan 17, 2013
Read the full story here Web Link posted Thursday, January 17, 2013, 9:51 AM
on Jan 17, 2013 at 10:46 am
Any word on whether Acterra or Mid-Pennisula OpenSpace has any input or expertise to lend?
on Jan 17, 2013 at 11:30 am
I did spend many a summer at Searsville Lake, earned my Girl Scout swimming badges there and lived within hiking distance on Family Farm Rd. for a few years. A beautiful place.
Oregon is removing dams to let fish spawn again. No one ever talks about the town of Searsville that stood pretty much where the lake is. So, a town was moved and the normal flow of a creek was stopped so that San Francisco could have water, and now other species rely on the man-made result. What to do? I say remove the dam and let things go back to "normal".
on Jan 17, 2013 at 11:39 am
Re "Remove the Dam" -- not a decision to be entered into lightly. Possible increased risk of flooding downstream. Also, removing the silt is a huge issue. I understand we are talking about a steady stream of big trucks carting away the silt, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for at least a year -- and where will they dump it?


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After an offseason of ups (Robinson Cano) and downs (Franklin Gutierrez, Hisashi Iwakuma), the Seattle Mariners continue to tear the Cactus League a new one while looking to upgrade. The Mariners...
Through 10 games, Brandon Dixon leads the Arizona Wildcats offense in almost all major categories, including batting average, on-base percentage, and stolen bases. Some major off season work has...
"He didn't win a Gold Glove. He didn't win a Fielding Bible Award. But Pablo Sandoval may be the best defensive third baseman in the National League, if not the majors." I am not familiar with the significance of the stats [rPM (runs plus minus saved), DRS (defensive runs saved), and RZR (revised zone rating)] used here. But at least there is evidence that Pablo is among the best defensive third basemen in baseball.
Mark Teahen is bad at third base, yet he keeps getting starts there. This time it costs the White Sox big in a loss to the Tigers
Joe Crede was a fan favorite among White Sox fans for 6 1/2 seasons. Now he will be playing for one of the Sox's biggest enemies. Crede, 30, agreed to terms Friday night with the Minnesota Twins, according to a major-league source. edit by larry 2/21 at 11:15am: The Twins will sign Crede to one-year deal with a base salary of $2.5 million with the chance to earn $7 million in appearance bonuses. The bonuses begin once Crede reaches 250 plate appearances and tops out at $7 million when he makes his 525th plate appearance. Star Trib
Josh Fields was once considered the White Sox 3B of the future. Can he restore his position now that they've brought in significant competition.
[Alexei] Ramirez has taken Viciedo under his wing in the Miami area by working out with him and showing him how to acclimate to a new country and language in the manner similar to that of Sox pitcher and fellow Cuban Jose Contreras. According to those who have seen him lately, the forecast is encouraging. "He's very good," Ramirez said. "He's very strong." [...] "He has more hitting ability than Alexei," the AL scout said. "But he has to make adjustments. I see some ways to get him out. Alexei is a great athlete who is very smart and can adjust. The Sox were right on with Alexei, but I want to see if Viciedo can do more than hit over an extended period."
Camp Cora has been up and running throughout the winter, and the early progress reports have Josh Fields emerging as a leading candidate to "shock" the organization when he reports to spring camp in just over three weeks. The third baseman was criticized by Ozzie Guillen last season for what the White Sox manager felt were diminishing skills as the year went on, so after a clean-up surgery on his knee in the fall, Fields opted to make a trip to Florida recently and work with Guillen and bench coach Joey Cora in preparation for taking over for free agent Joe Crede. His goal? To make sure Guillen can't criticize him — specifically his defense — any longer. "I talked to Joey [on Monday] and he said [Fields is] moving better by far than he's ever moved," hitting coach Greg Walker said. "[Cora] said we'll be shocked.
Beyond the Box Score takes a look at the practical results of using defensive positional adjustments versus offensive positional adjustments for the 2008 season.
Who were the best third basemen in 2008? Beyond the Boxscore answers that question, considering both offensive and defensive contributions.
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FY14 Institute Fee-Based Course Descriptions
Register for a course here or contact the Institute at GPO at 202.512.1283 or firstname.lastname@example.com
InDesign 6.0 Basics for Federal Publishers (New!)
This basic hands on introduction to InDesign teaches you how to create desktop publishing projects from start to finish: making master pages, creating style sheets for formatting text, importing text and graphics, setting up printing ink colors, preflighting, exporting press-quality and web-quality PDFs, and packaging files for the service bureau, along with graphic design concepts and guidelines.
Mar 18 – 19, 2014, July 8 – 9, 2014
Intermediate InDesign (Long Documents) for Federal Publishers (New!)
This course focuses on critical advanced features for long documents, including multi-chapter books, pagination, tables, indexes, tables of contents, and templates. By the end of the class, you will have completed a multi-chapter book with the above features.
Prerequisites: Adobe InDesign Basics or similar course or work experience.
This is an intermediate-level class only for experienced InDesign users who are able to create a basic document — including master pages, paragraph styles, and character styles — from scratch.
Jan 7-8, 2014, April 22–23, 2014
Do's, Don'ts and Tips for Desktop Publishers: Creating and Preflighting Files for Trouble-Free Printing more details
This "best practices" class provides the foundation for desktop publishing and fills in the missing information government publishers need to create trouble-free files for GPO and internal print shops. Not only does it cover the technical do's and don'ts for files that will be printed, but it also includes hands-on exercises in preflighting the main types of desktop publishing files — page layout files, photos, graphics, and PDFs.
Jan 13-15, 2014, Mar 11 – 13, 2014, June 24 – 26, 2014
508 Compliance using Adobe Acrobat with MS Word more details
Learn the federal guidelines for Section 508 compliant documents and fillable forms; how to test fillable PDF forms for accessibility; how to remediate an existing PDF form and make it accessible; and best practices for creating source documents in MS Word and Adobe InDesign.
Feb 11 - 13, 2014, June 9-11, 2014
508 Compliant Fillable Forms more details
This hands-on introductory course will provide concepts to properly create and edit Adobe PDF documents for access by users with disabilities. Students will learn:
April 8 – 9, 2014 July 15-16, 2014
Creating 508 Compliant PDF's using InDesign for Federal Publishers (New!) more details
This course offers shortcuts, tips, strategies, techniques, and best practices for Federal publishers who must create not only press-quality files, but also accessible Section 508-compliant PDFs from their InDesign layout files. Plus, these accessibility techniques also prepare InDesign files for XML publishing, web publishing, and content management systems (CMS), and also improve search engine optimization (SEO). (This course is recommended for experienced publishers seeking to master 508 compliance regulations, specifically
July 29 - 31, 2014
Creating ePubs using InDesign 6.0 (New!) more details
This new full-day, hands-on, how-to lab course is ideal for those looking to become proficient in creating ePubs. Students must possess intermediate level skills in InDesign 4.0. Specific areas covered in this class include:
Aug 19, 2014
Creating Appealing ePub Pages (New!) more details
This class is designed to help you take your ePub files to the next level. The class content focuses on building an understanding of how InDesign layouts translate into ePub format and how to avoid the most common pitfalls. Topics include typography, text alignment, formatting tables, adding metadata, and much more.
August 21, 2014
Superior Customer Service more details
This fast-paced two-day course for government printing specialists will deal with customer service as it specifically applies to providing government publication and printing services. Through lecture, video, role playing, and class interaction, attendees will gain insight and knowledge into providing effective, proactive customer service.
March 18 - 19, 2014
Proofs and Press Sheet Inspections
This course, taught by staff from the GPO Quality Control for Procured Printing section, includes a discussion of proofs and proofing systems and the relationship between proofs and press sheet inspections (PSIs). It covers what a PSI is and is NOT, scheduling of PSIs, PSI procedures, current proofs standards and examples, and advice for agency representatives.
July 8, 2014
Color Correction in Photoshop for Federal Publishers (New!)
In this two-day concentrated Photoshop course, you'll learn many ways to correct, and improve photos. This is an intermediate-level class that focuses ONLY on color correction and editing techniques. This class is right on target for Federal web developers, print designers, and photographers.
Prerequisites: Must be familiar with the Photoshop basic tools (selections, mask, layers and channels).
August 26-27, 2014
Printing Workflow: Process, Terminology, and Ordering Printing in the Federal Sector more details
This course covers basic printing processes and terminology; digital and traditional prepress and printing processes; ink on paper and other substrates; paper, envelopes and the Government paper system; post-press finishing operations, binding and GPO print procurement.
Dec. 10 – 13, 2013,
Photoshop Web Graphics for Federal Publishers (New!) more details
Photoshop's sophisticated tools can make quick work of many web site projects. This class shows you how to prepare photographs and drawn images for the web and to draw web page elements such as buttons, menu bars, typographic headlines, and tiled backgrounds. You will learn the pros and cons of the various graphics formats and compression methods. Achieve the best quality web images without sacrificing efficiency.
May 6, 2014
Additional Training Opportunities
About the Institute


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Style Map
Daily Dispatches From The Global Scene
Yves Henri Donat Mathieu-Saint-Laurent, who died in June 2008 at the age of 71, was not only the most influential designer of the second half of the twentieth century, he was also the most mythic: a dreamy, fragile creature with huge eyeglass frames (he wore nothing else in one iconic portrait) and a private life in frequent disarray. As his onetime companion (and later strictly business partner) Pierre Bergé put it, Saint Laurent was born with a nervous breakdown. Hailing from French-ruled Algeria, the designer started his business in Paris in 1961 with Bergé's financial backing. Saint Laurent was already a compelling figure, having been lionized as the savior of the house of Dior at the age of 21, and before long he was turning out couture collections—and then ready-to-wear, under the Rive Gauche label—that drew alternately aghast and enraptured headlines. The images from these vividly themed collections flash through the fashion history books like stills from a movie: the androgynous Weimar tuxedos of 1966, the midiskirts of 1971's reviled World War II show, the Cossack chic of 1976's sublime Ballets Russes collection. From the safari jacket and the peacoat to the famous Le Smoking, Saint Laurent's successes were so potent, they became absorbed into the common vernacular of late-century fashion. When it revived retro ideas, the house was in the vanguard of a trend that eventually became so mainstream that by the nineties it was almost the only way to do fashion.
By then Saint Laurent had largely retreated from the stage. Alber Elbaz and then Tom Ford tried their respective hands at a few ready-to-wear collections, while the couture operation was shuttered, to a sigh of Parisian nostalgia, in 2002. Stefano Pilati, who served under Ford at YSL, held the reins from 2004 until 2012. His tenure produced a thriving accessories business and some acclaimed collections. Early on, especially, his designs had a strong trickle-down effect on other top talents, but later collections were deemed too tricky by critics. Hedi Slimane began making changes soon after he was named creative director, renaming the label Saint Laurent and, perhaps even more surprisingly, moving its design atelier to his home base in Los Angeles.
Runway, backstage, and front-row footage from the Paris show.
Daily Dispatches From The Global Scene


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Le Méridien Barcelona
- La Rambla 111
- Barcelona,
- 08002
- Spain
- Map
- Phone: (34)(93) 318 6200
- Contact Us
- Announcements
- visit our site
Rated 4.3 out of 5 by 488 reviewers.
Rated 5 out of 5 by KBOB123 Great Hotel in a Great Area Once again, SPG hotels has delivered what is promised: a great hotel in a great location. We liked this place so much we will return for a longer stay next time. June 24, 2014
Rated 5 out of 5 by Care7400 Barcelona Exellent hotel with a Wonderful Staff. Perfect Location! Would not stay anwywere else. July 15, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by Minyaacob Great room and breakfast ! Room: comfortable beds and clean. breakfast : lovely breakfast Great location! September 19, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by asnani49 president best hotel best location very clean nice rooms good security September 1, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by colin12 great location excellant hotel lovely staff cant wait to go back October 11, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by tennis Great location and service Hotel staff are superb !! May 24, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by frizzo12 Great location and great staff with Bruno going beyond what is required of an employee I normally do not write in reviews ,but given the circumstances felt I needed to share this and hope employess are given opportunity to review. We recently stayed at this Hotel in Barcelona on May 31st for 2 nights. Its a great hotel with a great location but its the staff I felt were great. This stop to Barcelona was a 25th anniversary for my wife and I and was part of a 3 week vacation in Europe. When we arrived to Barcelona our luggage was lost and it was a poor and anxious start to our vacation. The staff at the hotel was great, helping us call airlines and following up. Needless to say our luggage did not arrive during our stay and we had to check out of hotel and head to the airport for a flight to Nice. We had no idea if our luggage would make it before that flight and one staff memeber (his 1st name Bruno-not sure what his last name was) knew we were anxious about that. He was going to be off the next 2 days but gave us his personal cell. number to contact him if luggage didnt come in and we needed assistance tracking it down etc. In the end the luggage came in 2 hours before our flight so all was good, but I would like to thank Bruno for all his hard work. The Hotel is lucky to have staff like Bruno that go out of their way at work but even take the time to offer their personal time to help. Special guy and he deserves to be commended. I hope that Hotel management take the time to acknolwdge this act. Thanks again : Frank and Margo June 24, 2013
Rated 3 out of 5 by Harrison123 Good Location, Average Service Having stayed at Le Meridien Barcelona for approximately 5 weeks on business during 2012 my feedback to colleagues was always very positive. Location wise it's great and the rooms are comfortable and a good size. However my visits during 2013 and in particular this visit have left me disillusioned to the point I may look to use other hotels in Barcelona going forward. Once again, and for the 3rd consecutive time at this hotel, I've been failed to be recognised as an SPG Gold member at check in by the what seems an endless stream of trainee reception staff. This leads to awkward conversations about check out time and even after I reminded them I was a gold member and therefore check out should be 16:00 I still returned to my room on the day of check out at 12:00 to find the card had been blocked. No complimentary gift offered either as a result of not being recognised. Internet access is luckily included in my corporate rate, although this also had to be debated at check out, if it wasn't and I'd paid the 19.00eur for 24 hours I would immediately demand a refund as for the most part in the rooms it's so slow at peak times to the point of being unusable. This has always been the case since I started using the hotel at the beginning of 2012. All in all a frustrating hotel as it has the potential to be superb, the bar and restaurant are excellent, as is the location and the rooms. Let down by the service and the WIFI which for a business traveller is really all your asking for. July 23, 2013
Rated 2 out of 5 by Westley Not the experience I expected! I will most likely not stay at Le Meridien Barcelona again; nor will I recommend it. I did not receive the service I expect from the "Luxury Collection Hotels." When we arrived, my colleague's room was not ready. The time was at 3:30pm. Even though my room was ready, it was troublesome for both of us. I waited with my colleague to ensure they got a room. We received nothing for the inconvenience and waited a half an hour without any notice of the room's readiness. Not until our inquiry about the room, did someone assist us. The Hotel restaurant was lacking in service and accuracy. For breakfast, several items on the menu that I requested were not available. The meal I did receive was not as I ordered. The server was not attentive to our needs at all. That evening, we decided to have dinner at the hotel due to convenience. After being seated, we were never served, not even water or a beverage. Several tables that were seated after us, were attended to before us. We waited 30 minutes with no acknowledgement or service at all. The Host neglected to recognize our concerns. He shrugged his shoulders and stated "We're Busy" when we told him of our situation. I thought his response was rather inappropriate. I expected a "Sorry" or "Someone will be with you in a moment." We ended up leaving the restaurant after that. Thankfully there are several great restaurants across the street. We ate elsewhere the rest of our stay. The location of the hotel is not ideal. It was difficult to fall asleep at night due to all the noise from the street. The area is very crowded and noisy. May 14, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by flodeck perfect location excellent location in the center of barcelona, comfortable room, good breakfast... June 21, 2014
Rated 2 out of 5 by SPCinCA Disappointed - IMMENSELY From the time I entered, not one of the many staff members standing around in the lobby greeted me. I found my way to check-in which went smoothly. Looking at the front desk area was an omen of what was to come (needing repair and repainting, cleaned up, employees groceries should be placed out of sight). I went up to the room I was assigned (419) and could not believe my senses. I walked into an interior room which overlooked a woman hanging laundry from her balcony. The room was hot and stale, obviously the air was not on and the room was, quiet, harsh and uninviting. It look as though the room was an extra that they were not expected anyone for. I went down to check-in and asked for a different room and explained that what I was given was nothing like any other Starwood experience I have had (they didn't really seem to care or inquire, they referred to it as a "patio view". Really?). They gave me a new room (420) and even though it was still FAR below my expectations of a Starwood property, at least the lights were on, the air was on and the tv was playing the hotel channel. Even though the finishing of the tile and painting were amateurish and the floors and walls were all scuffed and marked up, it was more welcoming, as if they were expecting a guest. Nothing about this stay, or this hotel, stood out as being anything but average. Not once did I feel like a valued guest. I was there as a preferred member using points which should translate to being treated better than someone off the street. I really appreciated having the security guard giving me the evil eye and watching me like a hawk every time I walked through the lobby, I almost lost it. I would not recommend this hotel to anyone using Starwood points or paying their rates. In my option this hotel was on par with a Run of the mill hotel chains. Nothing luxurious or stand out about it. At best, "average". I am not likely to stay a Starwood Member and will re-consider Starwood when doing my meeting planning events. June 9, 2013
Rated 3 out of 5 by GregE Too much for too little To spend over $1,200 U.S. for two nights, one would at least expect cotton sheets on the beds maybe even Egyptian 100% Cotton. It was one of the worst nights I have ever had--I was perspiring all night long with their polyester sheets. The 2nd night I had to wear the all cotton bathrobe to enjoy a rest. Never again. Yes location is # 1. However no place in front of the hotel to park opon arrival. went into the parking garage--could not continue since another car was coming out-Traffic jam in one lane garage. No elevator from garage to room. Concierge was Fantastic-( 5 stars) .Dining room staff not the friendliest. Would consider someplace else next time. November 27, 2012
Rated 4 out of 5 by fvbump82 Enjoyed our stay Front desk people were wonderful. On-site Princess staff were very helpful. Room was very clean and comfortable. Beautiful lobby and excellent location. Very modern. Great bathroom. TV stations very limited. Meal in hotel restaurant was poor and overpriced and service very poor (only real complaint about the hotel was this problem - we noticed oters have complained about the restaurant as well.). We returned the porr tasting iced tea for replacement and the waiter ignored us the rest of the evning. Had to ask another waitress for help for remainder of our meal and check delivery. Would stay there again, but would eat elsewhere. October 2, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by Raffster This hotel ticks all the boxes On any measure this hotel rates very highly. Fitness centre, excellent. Breakfast excellent. Location excellent. Staff excellent. SPG recognition excellent. I wouldn't hesitate in staying here again in the future. June 17, 2014
Rated 5 out of 5 by aviatorpepe Fantastic My wife and I stayed at Le Meridien Barcelona after a 12 day Mediterranean cruise. Little did we know that our time there was going to be the highlight of our trip. Le Meridien is located at the heart of Las Ramblas, making it ideal to access the best of what Barcelona has to offer. From the moment we stepped-in we experienced superb customer service and recognition as loyal SPG members. Our room was nicely decorated, well appointed and had a modern vibe as did the entire hotel. In fact, this property exudes modernism and class. Above all, however, what made our stay so remarkable was the attentiveness of the staff, which made our time there unforgettable. November 13, 2012
Rated 4 out of 5 by TMillerOH1 Superb location boasting super staff. Within an easy walk of numerous sites and tourist buses, the gracious staff offer superior service, and the rooms are of an ample size. From checkin to checkout the staff proved up to a variety of service issues from cashing travelers checks to fixing a faulty TV in the early morning. Special thanks to Salvador Batlle, Asst. Front Office Manager, and his staff for a wonderful room upgrade, numerous directions and help with timing our activities. The bar and dining room were such bargains we enjoyed two fantastic dinners in a row featuring delectable regional cuisine. We cannot wait to return sometime soon. April 2, 2014
Rated 4 out of 5 by measy Great with some considerations Location was great. Hotel staff was excellent. I really, REALLY, did not like the bathrooms because of the glass walls....totally bazaar. We also hated the night light. We could never get the room totally dark. Otherwise all was good. June 11, 2014
Rated 5 out of 5 by Dean52 Great Hotel !!!!! This was my first trip to Barcelona and my first stay at a Le Meridian despite being an SPG gold member since 1999. I was very impressed with the hotel and their staff, especially the front office manager Walter Rijkers. I was recognized as a gold member and given an amazing room with a great view. The front office staff and concierge were all very helpful. The location proved to be ideal and I was very happy in my choice of this hotel. I would absolutely recommend this hotel and if my travels bring me back to Spain this is where I will be staying. Thank you for making my recent visit even more memorable. March 1, 2014
Rated 3 out of 5 by SPCinCA Not impressed Maybe I have been spoiled by other SPG properties and or other hotels on my European trip but this hotel does not come close to what I expected. It is decent, but had nicer room in Paris and Venice. When I used my Starwood points last year in Rome the suite they gave me exceeded any expectation. It is a shame this trip did not live up to what I perceived as a Starwood Difference. The hotel feels generic. The walls and floors in the room are scuffed up. The first room I was given overlooked a "patio" (no view unless you like looking at neighbors laundry hanging out to dry). I would recommend the hotel as long your expectation are not high (definately not my idea of luxury). June 5, 2013
Rated 4 out of 5 by Nosie Barcelona 5 minters walk to Gothic Quarter & restaurants The location was superb. Breakfast good. Only complaint was that the bed was too soft so I did not sleep well. June 11, 2014
Rated 3 out of 5 by PamnJ2 Little value for the price Considering we paid what we consider "top price" for our room, we did not receive value. Upon arriving & finally settling into our room, the toilet & sink were non-functional. After several visits, the plumber was able to fix the problem (over 3 hrs). We were there for several days & after the 1st couple, we had to call & ask for missing items (face cloths, water bottles, etc.) regularly. The lobby is very limited space-wise & often the wait for the concierge service was 20-30 minutes. May 21, 2014
Rated 3 out of 5 by HaNi Excellent location, excellent concierge For the second time this year we stayed at the Meridien. Rooms are either small and we missed a bath but the bed is very convenient . Two years ago we received a large room with view on the street. Despite our Gold status we didn't receive any recognition, no extra drink, no Wifi or extra points. Even for the whole stay we only received 615 SPG points for a bill over the 2000 euro. In february the room wasn't clean, in june the fitting was O.K. The concierge is really excellent, all the time: very efficient and compliant. We really enjoy to stay in the Meridien but we miss some details for the price we have to pay. The location is the top but we miss a feeling of hospitality. June 9, 2013
Rated 4 out of 5 by MEP63 Quiet, comfortable rooms We enjoyed our weeklong stay at Le Meridien. Our rooms were in a very good location but could use updated furniture, new wallpaper and new rugs. Other rooms in the hotel have been updated more recently. The beds were comfortable and the rooms were very quiet, even the one facing La Rambla. Concierge service was great most days but occasionally inconsistent. Front desk staff was helpful and responded quickly to any requests. The hotel is in a very central location. The shape and layout of the rooms are unusual due to the shape of the hotel, but we had great views. April 20, 2014
Rated 5 out of 5 by Name4567 Very comfortable hotel Everything was fine. The restaurant the concierge recommended was not good. Every staff member was happy and more than willing to help you. June 9, 2014
Rated 5 out of 5 by docalex One of the best in the world This hotel offers the perfect blend of old world charm and modern comforts and decor. We have been fortunate in life to have stayed in the best hotels all over the world and Le Meridien is one of our top 5 at any price. The service and comfort are hard to beat. June 4, 2014
Rated 5 out of 5 by Cade This is an all around top hotel because of location and staff. Enjoyed this hotel for its location, helpful professional staff, comfort. Would definately stay here again. Used the consierge service for tickets to historical attractions and thought their restaurant was a plus. June 5, 2014
Rated 5 out of 5 by DIM1 GREAT HOTEL AND EXCELLENT PEOPLE A very pleasant hotel, great personnel, fantastic food at reasonable prices. The hotel offers great services in the most popular place of Barcelona. Worth a stay when in Barcelona. June 5, 2014
Rated 4 out of 5 by LightSleeper Very nice staff but room a little noisy Well located hotel (on Las Ramblas pedestrianised area) with comfortable, spacious rooms. Figuring out how to turn on/off various lights was a bit bewildering but I got the hang of it. The one negative was that my room was situated on a side street (Carrer del Pintor Fortuny) which seemed to be a staging area for taxis and sanitation vehicles. It was thus a little noisy in the late evenings and early mornings. However, the staff was particularly helpful, with Tonke taking time away from her other responsibilities to search for my Starwood Preferred Guest number when I couldn't place mine. Thank you! May 16, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by alohio Excellent stay Excellent service and location. The staff is extremely friendly, and the location for Barcelona could not be better centrally located for a Hotel. The street noise is well insulated by the room glass. The only thing I would to suggest to improve on is the bed comfort, as the pillows and mattresses are worn out, so the beds are not comfortable after all in the morning!.. Perhaps consider using other SPG beds known for bed comfort would fit best.. Also no room upgrade for gold members, only for platinum, based on availability! Otherwise Excellent stay! Will go back again.. March 31, 2014
Rated 4 out of 5 by Hello123456 is nice I had problems with the air conditioning, it was cooling down although it was not needed, in fact made it too cold. The Wifi for Smartphones did not work. What is SPG? June 4, 2014


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Police gear up for round two on Tasers
On February 4, the San Francisco Police Commission will hold the second of three planned community meetings to gauge support for a pilot program to arm 100 SFPD officers with Tasers. The controversial proposal pits police Chief Greg Suhr, a proponent, against civil liberties organizations and homeless advocates who are mobilizing public opposition to the Taser initiative.
Shortly after being appointed police chief in 2011, Suhr said arming the SFPD with Tasers would not be a top priority. But following the police shooting of a mentally ill man last July, Suhr has pushed the Police Commission to allow members of the cities Crisis Intervention Team (CIT)—who receive special training to deal with the mentally ill—to carry Tasers.
Since the shooting, Suhr has repeatedly argued that Tasers would help save lives and reduce instances of gun use. "You do have to have as many tools in the tool box before you go to guns," he said at the first community forum.
The ACLU and local homeless advocates disagree.
"Every time there is an officer-involved shooting, the department uses it as an excuse to outfit officers with Tasers," ACLU attorney Micaela Davis told the Guardian. "We continue to believe that Tasers are not a good alternative to firearms and we fear that officers run the risk of going to Tasers too early in a confrontation instead of using de-escalation techniques."
Equipping CIT officers with Tasers would inject the controversial stun guns into already tense confrontations between the mentally ill and the SFPD.
Lisa Marie Alatorre, an organizer with the San Francisco Homelessness Coalition, argues Tasers could have a devastating effect on the city's homeless population. "The CIT typically deals with people in crisis, people who are mentally ill, and people who are currently destitute and have nowhere to live," she told the Guardian. "The use of Tasers in the midst of a crisis will cause severe trauma and could inflict significant psychological damage."
Both the Coalition on Homelessness and the ACLU charge that the SFPD has dragged its feet in implementing the nonviolent components of the CIT program. Less than 75 officers have been trained in nonviolent confrontational strategies since the program's adoption last summer, and Alatorre charges SFPD has yet to implement protocols that would bring the program to fruition.
Police Commissioner Angela Chan, a longtime proponent of the CIT program, echoed these concerns. "We need to improve our de-escalation tactics with regards to crisis intervention. Many of the steps to train and implement CIT have not yet been implemented and that's where we need to focus our energies," she told the Guardian.
Despite strong local opposition to Tasers, they are becoming standard equipment for police departments across the nation. SFPD officers are hopeful that public opposition does not kill this pilot program, like similar attempts before it.
Sgt. Michael Andraychak, a spokesperson with the SFPD, argued that equipping CIT officers with Tasers would give police more flexibility to use force without engaging their firearms.
"On the street, not every situation can be managed in a nonviolent fashion," he told the Guardian. "CIT is a great program, and the implementation of Tasers would give those officers an additional tool to use before they have to escalate to deadly force."
Police commissioners will make a final decision about Tasers after the third community meeting, which is scheduled for Feb. 11 at the Bayview Opera House.
The next community forum on the SFPD Taser pilot program will be held on Feb. 4 from 6-8pm at the Scottish Rite Center, 2850 19th Ave, in SF.
shoot to kill.
Can someone please tell me how a 120 LB. female officer can stop a 200 LB. man who is either high, mentally unstable, or just plain pissed off and has a weapon (knife, bat, pipe, etc.) without a taser or shooting him? No one who is against tasers has ever been able to REASONABLY answer that. I have heard the following though:
Use pepper spray. - Pepper spray doesn't work on all individuals. People who have been sprayed before (like ex-convicts) aren't affected as much. Even if a person is sprayed, they can still flail around and grab you. Pepper spray HURTS, but doesn't always stop you. Police officers are taught to be able to keep fighting through pepper spray.
Baton - Do you know how much force is needed on a wrist or hand in order to make someone drop a weapon? Enough to break bone. And I'd take a 200 LB. man with a bat against a 120 LB. woman with a baton nearly every day of the week.
Don't police have martial arts training? Can't they use wrist locks or throws or something? - You've been watching too many movies dude.
Talk them down - That should always be the first option. But as much as you don't think so, some people won't (or can't) listen. This includes some mentally ill people. If they were sane, they wouldn't be attacking people in the first place, would they?
Wait for backup and swarm the person - You've never been in a fight have you? If someone has a knife, that person can do a lot of damage to the guy who gets closest first. And that is assuming that backup arrives before the guy decides to attack someone else. What then? Wait while he attacks someone else?
Do tasers have the possibility of misuse? Of course. So do their cars, guns, batons, pepper spray, and fists. There is a reason why every single major police department in the country (except Memphis) is equipped with tasers. Stopping a violent suspect isn't pretty but using a gun stops them permanently.
NO to tasers. No matter how many times they try to ram it through here for their agenda.
International Troll Society Member #12360969212
What a progressive slogan that is.
The same guys who beat people up over fajitas now want tasers to help them do it?
Let's have some common sense here. When SFPD starts behaving in a professional manner, then we can talk.
Do you think that we're getting our half a billion dollars worth of annual policing from the SFPD and their $300K+ chief? Really?
We have a spending problem with the SFPD, not a revenue problem.
The rest comes way down the list.
Even so, we spend much less in relative terms that Oakland, where 75% of their budget goes on OPD and OFD.
Jobs are the #1 priority.
The America Cup is the #1 priority.
The Central Subway is the #1 priority.
Building new housing is the #1 priority.
Enforcing Ethics laws is the #1 priority.
Getting the Superbowl and Olympics are the #1 priority.
represents a failure on their part to address "more important issues."
Not surprisingly, the same false notion that two things cannot occupy the concern of government at one time is never brought up when numerous "moderate" programs are in the offing -- in fact, they can all be *number* *one* *priorities!*
law by saying it would distract the police from enforcing more important laws elsewhere.
"blah blah blah big lie blah blah something I overheard at the coffee shop"
considering the source.
So you think Campos had a point? As usual you make no sense.
In context you are saying that it's a poor argument to say that government can't do multiple things, some important some not, including legislating around happy meals because a supervisor can't parent.
Campos said that the police force is too stupid to prioritize. Weiner's law was bad according to progressive leader Campos because cops might be ticketing nakid while occupy types are smashing windows down Valencia.
Campos was making the exact argument you bemoan in others.
I actually wanted a reason to belabor the point -- and you -- a little bit more.
The fact is that supervisors set the budget for the police department and when considering each piece of legislation they have the *responsibility* to assess how its enforcement will affect the balance of other laws; Campos and his fellow supervisors are *supposed* to prioritize the police force.
By objecting to the nudity ban based on its potential added demands on police services. Campos was acting on the unremarkably obvious. (Similar, in a way to me responding to your drivel.)
Are there unsolved robberies? Rapes? Murders? We've heard a recent story here of an assault that went uninvestigated, even though there were plenty of leads and opportunity to catch the culprit.
Campos did not say we shouldn't prohibit nudity because it would interfere with an airport expansion or an attempt to get a basketball team for the city -- *that* would be a truly equivalent bit of nonsense; the kind of crap so-called "moderates" are always trying to pull.
You should not get away with robbery just because murder is a worse crime.
modern policing methods understand the broken window theory and that zero tolerance for any cimes, reduces all crimes.
running around naked *and* throwing bricks through your windows.
Good point. The human body disgusts me anyhow.
then they become enboldened and double down. Slippery slope and all - best to nip it in the bud with zero tolerance.
There are plenty of laws that don't go enforced, enforcing nudity is not zero tolerance. Zero tolerance would put too many people in jail, those sometimes-y "crimes" are used for discretionary enforcement purposes only.
the stirring of coffee in a counter-clockwise direction and it was not enforced, we'd have a crime wave. (That goes without saying, doesn't it?)
Tell it to HSBC--to big to jail. Tip of the iceberg.
all day writing inane comments - most of which claim other commenters have "cooties?"
and crazy rationalization.
you complained that people make weird arguments around government priorities, then you say that people you agree with do it too, but it is OK because the people you agree with, agree with you.
So it's bad not to agree with you, but it is OK to agree with you, because agreeing with you and your priorities is OK.????
This must be that nuance thing.
A "weird argument around government priorities" is to claim that an initiative to rename the airport after a much-celebrated local hero and martyr will inhibit the maintenance of the streets and other public infrastructure; or the fight against crime; or any other problem that there is a government agency set up to deal with on an ongoing basis.
But that's not all.
It is *also* a weird argument to suppose that adding public nudity to the list of acts which qualify for police attention will not affect police work load and the level of enforcement of other acts which have a greater basis for being made illegal.
There's absolutely *NO* nuance about it.
It is a "moderate" thing.
"Moderates," for the most part, are not moderate at all, but are actually reactionary twits trying to be clever.
Based on your apparent level of ability, matlock, you really ought to try some other tack -- or maybe another forum altogether.
How about Freep?
Rhetoric is often so comical.
"Don't blame me, I voted for Kodos " H Simpson.
Who wouldn't want to build a ray gun to aim at a planet they've never even heard of?
Kodos would have made abortions for all the #1 priority.
Abortions for some, miniature American flags for others.
So your justification for not giving SFPD tasers is an incident involving 3 off-duty cops (who, btw, are no longer with the department) from a decade ago?
Some white liberals really hate the police. It's a fashion statement in some leftist circles.
How's that for justification? Cops with multiple weapons are clearly not mature enough to know which one they're reaching for. Better that they understand that when they reach for a weapon, it's lethal.
In any case, tasers *are* lethal, even when used correctly. And that's another thing that troubles me -that the cops keep insisting that they're not, when in fact multiple deaths have now been attributed to them.
"Cops with multiple weapons are clearly not mature enough to know which one they're reaching for." Careful greg, your hatred of cops is showing.
In rare instances, yes, tasers can kill. But you know what's almost always lethal? A .40 round to the chest.
And yet you still can't say what a 120 LB. woman is supposed to do against a 200 LB. man with a knife without a taser short of turning to her gun.
The problem with tasers is that when cops have them, they become a first resort rather than a last resort. Time and time again, they're used unnecessarily when mere talking could've diffused the situation. Often with lethal results.
otherwise escape, without killing him.
Bloodthirsty troll.
right from the start I don't want cops able to zap me like some ranchers zapping their cows.
Cops have to use force sometimes, but it leaves a mark (generally speaking, since there are some nasty tricks some cops use) and has to be justified.
Tasers will be far too apealing to cops who may be lazy or overly interested in taking the course of least personal hazard to themselves despite serious deleterious effects on the civil rights of others.
I think the lethal aspect may be the best angle to oppose tasers on a political level. Cops will (and already do) resort to tasers when putting in a little more effort into talking down the situation could've worked. Because why put in the effort when you can just zap? Using guns is much more serious -cop is going to have to go fill out paperwork and justify use of a gun. And even though it's true that the courts virtually always side with the cop, it's still a hassle... and a cop who shoots someone every other day is probably going to get a stern talking-to. But a taser carries no such weight. The justification for using a taser can be... well, anything. So in the end, tasers become overused, and more people get injured or killed than otherwise would have.
However... there is another aspect of this. This isn't provable -just a hunch -but I think a lot of cops want an extra tool in order to cause pain, because they enjoy inflicting pain, in the same way that they enjoy using their authority to bully. The minds of many of the cops I've met seem to work not much differently than the thugs they're supposed to be protecting us from. I think similar personalities are drawn to cop life as thug life. Perhaps not *all* cops, but certainly more than the proverbial "few bad apples." There's no denying a certain sadistic streak among a segment of the cop population. And I'm not comfortable giving them another outlet for their sadistic tendencies.
reasons -- and I will stipulate that it is a majority -- have within themselves a capacity to do wrong. There have been famous studies.
It all relates to Lord Acton's admonition.
When previously I made a remark about how one of the important dangers cops faced in their daily work was the tendency to become jaded towards their fellow men over time, I was only being half-heartedly facetious.
I've personally seen how some older cops even long after retirement have a bizarre tendency to impute all sorts of criminal intentions and backgrounds to people based soley on a momentary visual evaluation.
But then there are indeed the "bad apples"; and just as in many other fields of authority and responsibility over others -- i.e. potential victims -- police work *attracts* them.
Sad truth which should not detract substantially from cops who are basically good men and women and perform their duties honorably and sometimes heroically.
I met Mehserle's dad, a sailor who was criticized by some for using a large sailboat to hold banners in counter-protest in favor of his son in Mission Creek during Giants games, and I was impressed by his humility and the pathos on his side of the murder; though I supposed at the time it might also have been the well-acted performance by someone who's been schooled by top-flight PR experts which I was taken by.
If you want a poster child for police brutality, try and find one who wasn't drugged up and who didn't have 12 convictions.
offenses carried the death penalty, and he complied with whatever penalties the state gave him. How do his previous problems have any bearing on what happened to him on that BART platform?
His murder by the BART police is a good example of why police shouldn't carry tasers. Mesherle's excuse was that he thought his pistol was his taser. If those cops didn't carry both types of weapons, he couldn't have made that mistake.
BART train, he'd still be alive.
Oh wait, he would have been.
I'll put it another way.
If you weren't posting comments here, you would still be stupid.
Good one. Damn.
oscar grant got what he deserved and Officer Mesherle is a hero. I personally sent his family a check for $5,000 and a letter signed by 63 LAW-ABIDING, TAXPAYING, AMERICAN CITIZENS thanking the BRAVE Officer for ridding the world of another piece of garbage.
Mesherle is a criminal.
There's a reason he got a light sentence. If he had shot a nun or choirboy, the result would have been very different. Justice isn't blind.
The fact that a cop got prosecuted at all speaks to the gravity of the offense.
And did he ever serve any jail time?
Plus however many he got away with.
Thug and felon.
Don't you understand that Grant was a "budding rapper?" Def Jam was on the verge of signing a huge deal with him. Barring that he was definitely going to become an academic - he was at community college you know.
the above Guest is a lowlife fascist swine. There is nothing "brave" about executing a defenseless person in handcuffs lying on the ground.
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Why Firefighters Call 'Mayday'
Most veteran firefighters will admit that one of the most significant transmissions that one can hear on the fireground is a "Mayday" call. The time parameters associated with locating and removing a lost, injured or otherwise incapacitated...
4. Ventilation: Fire growth/HRR and ventilation go hand in hand. For example, consider the wood burning stove; if you want the fire to get bigger, open the damper (i.e., front door of a dwelling). Close the damper/door, and the flames dissipate. As long as there is fuel and heat, there will be significant growth by air supply. Open the flue (roof) to the stove, and smoke is allowed to exit, being replaced with fresh air. So the bottom line is simple: control strategic ventilation and you control the fire.
5. Water Supply and Suppression: Insufficient flow rate, whether through limited pump capabilities or lack of adequate personnel to position ample handlines, will compound fire conditions and heat release rates. Bringing the right amount of water for BTU consumption and steam conversion is what tackles HRR in its tracks. Moving these lines (note plural here) requires an adequate number of firefighters.
6. Rapid Intervention: State codes, national fire and labor standards and case studies have all identified the mandatory need for a qualified Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC) on-scene during emergency incidents that require entry into an Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) Atmosphere (see Photo 4). A compartment fire (structure) is such an event.
Think about it; which one of the above mentioned tasks would you accept not being completed within the first critical minutes upon arrival? Each of them plays an integral part in the overall success of the operation, causing the strategy of the IC to fall short and possibly result in a "Mayday" situation. The bottom line is this: Fire growth is not magic; it does not get swayed by popular opinion, elevated tone or political gain. It is chemistry and physics, period. In over two decades of firefighting, I have only seen two true methods to influence the combustion process: adequate, timely ventilation and copious amounts of strategically placed water. To complete these tactics, multiple supporting operations have to be in place as well. Without them, the potential for the Mayday on scene will dramatically increase.
Situations may arise from time to time that may result in a crew activating a Mayday transmission due to an unforeseen event in the structure (collapse, partial failure of a compartment, flashover, backdraft, etc…). However, statistics show that many times the reason for the Mayday is a direct result of a failure from within the management of the scene. It is imperative that all of the members operating at the emergency know the plan, and understand the anticipated outcome. Keeping communications open and performing the assigned tasks in a synchronized fashion will limit the potential of hearing the Mayday over the radio at your next scene.
Until next time, stay focused and stay safe.
MICHAEL P. DALEY is a lieutenant and training officer with the Monroe Township, NJ, Fire District No. 3, and is an instructor with the Middlesex County Fire Academy where he is responsible for rescue training curriculum development. Mike has an extensive background in fire service operations and holds degrees in business management and public safety administration. Mike serves as a rescue officer with the New Jersey Urban Search and Rescue Task Force 1 and is a managing member for Fire Service Performance Concepts, a consultant group that provides assistance and support to fire departments with their training programs and course development. Mike was recently awards the ISFSI's Master Fire Instructor title. Mike has been guest on several Firehouse.com podcasts including: Successful Rescue Operations in Today's Fire Service, Preparing for Tomorrow's RIT Deployment Today andBasement Fire Tactics Roundtable podcasts. You can reach Michael by e-mail at:email@example.com.
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Happy first day of autumn! OK, so it's tomorrow, but I can hardly contain my joy at the change of seasons.
It's cooling off, the grass isn't growing so darn fast, and the community seems to be coming back to life after the long, hot doldrums of summer.
So it's time to update those to-do lists and calendars, which will soon be filling up with social events and fundraisers.
As far as to-do lists go, here's one I couldn't resist passing along. Somebody sent it to me in an e-mail, so I don't know who wrote it, but they deserve big paws up for their humor.
Dear God: Here is a list of just some of the things I must remember to be a good dog:
n I will not eat the cat's food before he eats it.
n I will not roll on dead seagulls, fish, crabs, etc., just because I like the way
they smell.
n The litter box is not a cookie jar.
n The sofa is not a "face towel."
n. The garbage collector is not stealing our stuff.
n I will not play tug-of-war with Dad's underwear when he's on the toilet.
n I don't need to suddenly stand straight up when I'm under the coffee table.
n I must shake the rainwater out of my fur before entering the house -- not after.
n The cat is not a squeaky toy, so when I play with him and he makes that noise, it's usually not a good thing.
As they say on Facebook, BOL (translation: bark out loud).
Cat Depot needs your help
Cat Depot in Sarasota has been selected to receive 5,000 cans of cat food and is in the running to get more in a contest sponsored by Friskies.
Here's how it works:
"The Friskies" is the contest, honoring Internet cat videos, and will award $25,000 in cash prizes to the creators of the best original cat videos of 2012.
But the cats and their "directors" aren't the only winners: Friskies will donate 250,000 cans of cat food to 25 charity partners (up to 10,000 for each organization).
Each time someone enters the contest, votes, or likes or shares a video, five more cans of Friskies are added to the number of cans to be donated to the charities.
Cat Depot executive director Shelley Thayer issued a statement encouraging everyone to "pull out the stops and video their cute and mischievous cat's antics for a great cause."
The entry period runs through Oct. 12; the voting period runs Oct. 22-Nov. 5.
For more information on the contest, go to www.TheFriskies.com.
For more information on Cat Depot, go to www.catdepot.org.
Mark your calendars
n Bark for Life, a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, is set for 2-5 p.m. Sept. 30 at Bennett Park, 400 Cypress Creek Blvd., Bradenton.
There will be doggie games, an award for the top fundraising dog, a dress-up contest for the dogs, special guest dog demonstrations, music and food.
Entry fees are $10 per dog (limit two per person), $5 a person without a dog, and $25 the day of the event.
You can register in person at On A Shoestring, 3633 Cortez Road, Bradenton, or online at www.signmeup.com/site/online-event-registration/85539.
Information: Sharon at 941-737-1594.
n Autumn Dog Days is a benefit festival set for 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 3 at Greenbrook Adventure Park in Lakewood Ranch.
Dog Days is a benefit for the Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch and features fun, food and adoptable animals from area rescue groups.
A highlight of the festival is the Hot Dog Culinary Cook-off, where area teams from local agencies and businesses vie for bragging rights of "Best Hot Dog in Lakewood Ranch."
New this year is the March of the Furry Paws, a fun walk for humans and pets. Donations can be given online at www.firstgiving.com/marchofthefurrypaws.
Information: HSLWR at 941-361-1071 or www.hslwr,org.
These events are also in the works, with details to come:
n Coast to Coast Bully Walk, 10 a.m. Oct. 27 at Rossi Park in downtown Bradenton.
Sponsored by Manatee County Animal Services, walkers will be joining thousands of pit bull families across the United States to celebrate Pit Bull Awareness Day, giving families a chance to show off their sociable pit bulls and pit mixes.
Animal Services volunteers will also be bringing dogs from the new Adopt-a-bull program to show their skills.
n Canine Christmas, the annual fundraiser for Animal Network of Manatee County, is set for 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 17 at Bishop Animal Shelter, 5718 21st Ave. W., Bradenton. Be sure to visit "rescue row" to see wonderful dogs for adoption. Information: www.caninechristmas.com.
If you have an event coming up, be sure to email it to me so we can get it in the paper.
M.K. Means, Herald copy editor, can be reached at 941-745-7054.


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Lancashire charity crook scam warning (From Burnley and Pendle Citizen)
When news happens, text LT and your photos and videos to 80360. Or contact us by email or phone.
Lancashire charity crook scam warning
1:00pm Wednesday 28th May 2014 in News
LANCASHIRE residents are being warned not to hand over clothing to people or organisations claiming to recycle them on behalf of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.
Crooks are using bags to collect clothing from people using outdated bags, and the money raised is not being passed onto the charity.
It has been reported that organisations have been distributing clothing recycling bags with Cystic Fibrosis Trust's old red, white and blue logo, without the charity's agreement.
The trust warns that these clothing collection requests are not real and anyone carrying them out is doing so illegally.
Lancashire police are now making inquiries into the illegal activities.
Other charities in the county have been hit by similar scams in the past.
The Air Ambulance Service complained to police when a hoax charity, simply calling itself 'Air Ambulance Service', sent out collection leaflets encouraging people to donate items such as clothing.
Iain Mcandrew, director of income generation at the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, said: "We are very grateful to all those who support the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and help raise vital funds for research.
"Unfortunately charities sometimes fall victim to criminal activity which is extremely damaging to the public's confidence and could affect their willingness to continue with their generous support.
"We have reason to believe our old charity sacks carrying the old red, white and blue Cystic Fibrosis Trust logo are in circulation.
"These are no longer our official bags and should be disposed of immediately.
"Anyone who is in any doubt about the recycling bags they receive should contact the charities concerned to ensure they are genuine."
The trust is calling on residents to provide them with any information they have about the disused sacks.
Anyone with any information about the charity sacks can let the Cystic Fibrosis Trust know by emailing them at recycling@cystic fibrosis.org.uk or by contacting the local police.
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In addition to our mainstage productions, the Opera is dedicated to offering diverse
and enriching programs throughout the Southwest.
A special program series created just for children (ages 3 to 5) to explore the world of opera's many art forms through a variety of activities and games. Special care is taken to address the different developmental levels of toddlers, allowing them to experience as much or as little as they like.
This year's sessions will focus around the general theme of Adventures, visiting different destinations like Spain (Carmen) and China (Le Rossignol). Several activities illustrate the selected topic as participants move from one station to another based upon their personal interest level. Opera's various art forms are introduced through poetry and song, music and dance, along with costumes and art activities related to scenery and props—all translated through the five senses.
For more information, contact Alvaro Quintanar or call 505-946-2404.
Opera Makes Sense 2013-14
Saturday, April 5, 2014, Stieren Hall at The Santa Fe Opera, 9:30 to 11:30am
Saturday, June 7, 2014, at the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum Education Annex, 123 Grant Ave, 9:30 to 11:30amInterested in supporting outreach programs? Learn more


text:
If you have a smartphone, and you love deals, this is for you.
Did you know you can get great deals sent right to your phone by telling people where you are?
In the social media world they call it "checking in." You'll be surprised how much you can save this holiday season through apps on your phone.
Apps like Google Shopper and Shop Savvy let you take a picture or scan an item and it gives you discounts or lets you know where to find it.
The Shop Kick app allows you to "check in" to a store and gives you points to be redeemed for free stuff or coupons.
FOX 10's Kristin Anderson gives you the 411.
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Phone: (407) 644-3535
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- Jul 28:
- Tails of Marin: A good day at the office for kittens
- Jun 9:
- Tails of Marin: Speak out for animals on Humane Lobby Day
- May 26:
- Tails of Marin: Planning for your animal companion's future
- May 19:
- Tails of Marin: What you can do to help dogs in peril in Asia
- May 12:
- Tails of Marin: Caution with dogs can be a safe approach
- May 5:
- Tails of Marin: The Marin Human Race is not just for humans
- Apr 28:
- Tails of Marin: A license is your dog's ticket home
- Apr 21:
- Tails of Marin: Does your cat need to go outside to be happy?
- Apr 14:
- Tails of Marin: The power of preventing cruelty to animals
- Apr 7:
- Tails of Marin: Volunteers put their hearts into their hours of help
- Mar 31:
- Tails of Marin: An open door and second chance for Stella
- Mar 24:
- Tails of Marin: Dogs and death caps a dangerous combination
- Mar 17:
- Tails of Marin: Luff marks milestone of helping animals healthy and happy
- Mar 10:
- Tails of Marin: Get to know the misunderstood dog in your family
- Mar 2:
- Tails of Marin: 10 reasons why guinea pigs make great pets
- Feb 21:
- Tails of Marin: Moving home is a time when pets can go missing
- Feb 14:
- Tails of Marin: World Spay Day shines light on saving animals' lives
- Jan 24:
- Tails of Marin: Why does my cat do that?
- Jan 17:
- Tails of Marin: It's Adopt a Rescued Bird Month
- Jan 3:
- Tails of Marin: Pet-related New Year's resolutions
- Dec 27:
- Tails of Marin: Recall, the Holy Grail of dog training
- Dec 20:
- Tails of Marin: Meaningful bonds form in Pen Pals program at San Quentin
- Dec 13:
- Tails of Marin: For dogs in need, Jessica's Haven to the rescue
- Dec 6:
- Tails of Marin: Tips to keep pets safe during the holidays
- Tails of Marin: Tips to keep pets safe during the holidays
- Nov 22:
- Tails of Marin: Help your dog follow its nose to success
- Nov 15:
- Tails of Marin: Reptiles can be rewarding pets
- Nov 8:
- Tails of Marin: Save a turkey this Thanksgiving
- Nov 1:
- Tails of Marin: Adopting cats with FIV
- Oct 25:
- Tails of Marin: Halloween can be spooky for pets
- Oct 18:
- Tails of Marin: Why it's worth teaching your dog to 'heel'
- Oct 11:
- Tails of Marin: Is it ever safe to take your bird outside?
- Oct 4:
- Tails of Marin: Happy ending for animals in hoarding situation
- Sep 13:
- Tails of Marin: In a dog's world, size really does matter
- Sep 6:
- Tails of Marin: A legacy of teaching kindness with humane education
- Aug 23:
- Tails of Marin: Important guidelines to know when enjoying water with your dog
- Aug 16:
- Tails of Marin: How pet personality profiles translate to home life
- Aug 2:
- Tails of Marin: Play can be useful training tool for dogs
- Jul 26:
- Tails of Marin: Steve Hill marks 40 years with Marin Humane Society
- Jul 20:
- Tails of Marin: Safeguard pets against warm weather dangers
- Jul 13:
- Tails of Marin: Designer dogs can be found at shelters
- Jul 6:
- Tails of Marin: Coexisting with our wild neighbors
- Jun 29:
- Tails of Marin: July 4th can be a blast, but not for skittish pets
- Jun 22:
- Tails of Marin: 10 good reasons to give adult cats a home
- Jun 15:
- Tails of Marin: Get off to races with canine flyball competitions
- Jun 8:
- Tails of Marin: Get to bottom of pet's bad acts with behavior therapy
- Jun 1:
- Tails of Marin: How to find your lost bird
- May 25:
- Tails of Marin: Dog training classes can be fun for pets and people
- May 18:
- Tails of Marin: Ins and outs of bringing along pets on trips
- May 11:
- Tails of Marin: Pets need protection in cars, too
- Apr 20:
- Tails of Marin: Helping hands of volunteers rarely go unnoticed
- Apr 13:
- Tails of Marin: Marin Humane Society's Pet Partnership program works hard to help animals
- Apr 6:
- Tails of Marin: Celebrating Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month
- Mar 30:
- Tails of Marin: Fun ways to get out and active with your dog
- Mar 16:
- Tails of Marin: Walking dogs doesn't need to be frustrating
- Mar 9:
- Tails of Marin: Don't be tempted by Easter marketing for rabbits
- Feb 23:
- Tails of Marin: San Rafael pet hospital improving care with cutting-edge upgrades
- Feb 16:
- Tails of Marin: World Spay Day aims to save more animals lives
- Feb 9:
- Tails of Marin: Knowing first aid can save your pet's life
IMAGINE YOU'RE riding along in your car with your best friend, and by that I mean your four-legged best friend, and — BOOM — you are broadsided in an intersection and your damaged car spins out before it comes to a stop. In the confusion to get you out of your car, your dog, unrestrained in the car, slips by all the concerned passers-by and gets lost in the big city. It's terrified and hightails it out of the intersection seeking safety.
After you're released from the emergency room you go back to the scene looking for your dog, but he is nowhere to be found. You walk a radius around the area calling and whistling, but no sign of your friend. Now what? What are the chances you're going to find it? Is Fido wearing a license? Not does the dog have a license, but is the animal wearing it?
Recently, a similar scenario occurred with a Marin County man who lost his dog as the result of a car accident in San Francisco. After the accident and the loss of his dog, the man came to the Humane Society seeking help. Fortunately, he had already done himself the favor of having his dog's license attached to the dog's collar. In an amazing twist of fate, a conscientious San Francisco resident found the dog, saw the license, called the Marin Humane Society and was given the owner's information. It was that simple. And it's rare.
It is surprising how many people, myself included, have their dogs licensed but don't actually put the license on the dog's collar. What's my own excuse? Well, my dog is microchipped and it wears an ID tag on its collar with its name and my phone number. So, that's fine if I get lucky.
But if my darling 10-year-old Chihuahua mix is lost because of an accident or a natural disaster, the people who find her may not be able to call me, my phone may be out of service, and it is extremely doubtful they will have a microchip scanner. Naturally, a helpful person will turn to authorities for assistance. A dog license is the quickest and easiest way for an agency such as the Humane Society, SPCA or even law enforcement to locate a pet's guardian.
What are some other reasons to license Fido? The first reason that leaps to mind (and on the MHS website) is it's the law. Here is what else the website has to say:
If your dog gets lost, a license tag on your dog's collar is the fastest way to reunite you and your dog. Even if your dog is microchipped, a license tag is immediately visible and doesn't require a scanning device to read.
A current license lets people know that your dog has received the required vaccination to protect your dog from rabies.
The fee you pay for your dog license and license renewal helps support the animal shelter.
Your dog's license shows that you are a responsible guardian.
A lot more information is available on the Marin Humane Society's website at http://bit.ly/XV45FC.
So, will I be putting my dog's license on my dog? Yes, I will. What's a little more bling when you're her age? And do I also think it's a good idea to restrain a dog riding in a car? Well, that's the first thing we should have asked ourselves and fodder for another day.
Kim Bromley is a volunteer for the The Marin Humane Society, which contributes Tails of Marin articles. Go to marinhumanesociety.org or Twitter.com/MarinHumane.


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By Doug Ireland
Staff Writer
---- — SALEM, N.H. — After 111 years, some things never change at Canobie Lake Park.
When the park opens for the season Saturday, there will be the usual excitement and smell of popcorn in the air.
After the attacks last week at the Boston Marathon, Canobie spokesman Chris Nicoli said park officials are taking a closer look at security procedures to protect the thousands of guests expected to visit the park this year.
"Safety and security is of foremost importance," he said. "We have numerous security (officers) at the park."
Park personnel typically review security procedures at the start of each season, he said. But Nicoli said there is heightened awareness after three people were killed and approximately 180 injured near the marathon finish line April 15.
Nicoli said the security review is still taking place. Regardless, he said, he could not release any security details.
"As far as security, it might be something people don't even notice," he said.
Deputy Chief Shawn Patten said the Salem, N.H., Police Department conducts regular security reviews at Canobie and provides police details at the park to keep the public safe.
Security at the park was reviewed over the winter and after the attacks last week, he said.
Canobie "will remain an exciting, safe place to bring your family," Patten said. "They have a good park security plan in place."
Nicoli did say the park may increase its searches of bags, backpacks and other personal belongings.
Otherwise, Nicoli said, customers shouldn't expect any major changes.
There is one change, the park's newest attraction — The Equinox.
Introduced in October, just five days before the season ended, most Canobie regulars haven't had the chance to test their nerves — or their stomachs — on the ride.
The attraction, which was purchased in London, features three large mechanical arms that lift riders 75 feet into the sky as they spin and swing. It's just one of the park's more than 85 rides and the newest since the arrival of the popular roller coaster, Untamed, two years ago.
The park is introducing The Canobie Institute, which provides approximately 15 educational programs for school groups. It features real-world projects, physics and science experiments, and live presentations to complement what they learn in the classroom.
Another addition to the park this year more parking — an extra 350 parking spaces, increasing the total to 2,577.
The additional parking reduces the park's reliance on shuttle buses to transport guests to and from a large off-site parking area, Nicoli said. Canobie also has been working to improve traffic flow outside the park.
As the park's website counts down the hours, days, minutes and seconds before Canobie opens, Nicoli said there is the usual last-minute scramble to make sure every thing is in working order.
Earlier this week, workers were making sure the Equinox was ready to go. Artist Sheryl Chatterton was busy painting a large beach mural.
The park's approximately 1,000 employees have been undergoing training over the past month to make sure they're ready to go Saturday, Nicoli said.
Canobie will offer its annual opening day special, offering one-day passes for $27.
The park is open on weekends only until May 23, when it begins daily operation.
Doug Ireland may be contacted at email@example.com.