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Chelmsford Twitter troll harassed Coldplay and Countdown stars (From Basildon Recorder)
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Chelmsford Twitter troll harassed Coldplay star Chris Martin and Countdown's Rachel Riley
Updated 10:47am Monday 2nd June 2014 in News
A TWITTER troll who bombarded Countdown star Rachel Riley with abusive tweets has been slapped with a restraining order.
Anthony Wells, 31, left the 28-year-old former Southend High School for Girls pupil from Thorpe Bay "distressed" after targeting her with hundreds of abusive and threatening messages during a seven-month period.
Wells from Chelmsford was handed a five-year restraining order at Basildon Crown Court after admitting one charge of harassment against Miss Riley.
The charge stated that tweets sent from Wells' Twitter account had "caused Rachel Riley to fear that violence would be used against her".
The court was told a similar charge relating to the alleged harassment of Coldplay singer Chris Martin on Twitter and YouTube, which Wells had pleaded not guilty to, would lie on file.
One bizarre tweet posted by the paranoid schizophrenic read: "Helping them might be Rachel and Chris Martin yet again trying to steal the rest of my songs for EMI and Sony.
"Kill them now."
Jamie Sawyer, prosecuting, told the court: "Ultimately this case revolves around harassment causing fear of violence by Mr Wells between October 2012 and May 2013.
"Effectively what he did was send a persistent series of abusive Twitter messages.
"Rachel Riley is something of a celebrity, a TV presenter on Countdown, who is married with children and uses her Twitter account to communicate with fans and advertise where she will be attending.
"Around 500 tweets were sent during the time of the indictment. The nature of these messages was always abusive.
"The messages sent to Rachel Riley of course caused her distress. Her personal statement gives a graphic description of her reaction to the tweets.
"In our observation these two complainants deserve protection and reassurance."
Wells appeared in court alongside a mental health nurse and wore a grey suit jacket, jeans and white trainers.
Judge Owen Davies QC told the court the case was a "delicate matter" as Wells had clearly been suffering from mental health issues at the time.
Miss Eleanor Scott, mitigating, told the court her client has been suffering from paranoid schizophrenia and his abusive tweets had been influenced by "psychotic thinking".
She said: "At the time Mr Wells was significantly influenced by psychotic thinking.
"He is still a very mentally fragile individual but has pleaded guilty to the charge and understands what he did was wrong.
"He is happy to abide by a restraining order."
Judge Davies QC imposed a restraining order banning Wells from contacting both Rachel Riley and Chris Martin either directly or indirectly.
He also sectioned Wells under the Mental Health Act.
Addressing Wells, he said: "You're currently in hospital and for the moment that is the right place for you to be.
"I am going to make a Section 37 hospital order under the Mental Health Act. That is an order requiring you to remain in hospital until authorities require otherwise."
Last September Miss Riley wowed BBC viewers with her dancing moves during a six-week stint on Strictly Come Dancing, alongside dance partner Pasha Kovalev, before eventually being voted off.
Riley fans were left stunned in November after it was revealed the TV starlet had broken up with her millionaire husband, Jamie Gilbert, after just 16 months of marriage.
Comments (7)
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11:14am Mon 2 Jun 14
Howard Cháse says...
11:42am Mon 2 Jun 14
LinfordsLunchbox says...
1:30pm Mon 2 Jun 14
Nowthatsworthknowing says...
LinfordsLunchbox wrote:WRONG it's Profondo Asbo.....
Yeah, i think he uses the name "ThisYear"
6:56pm Mon 2 Jun 14
ekcoanarak says...
Nowthatsworthknowing wrote:No ,Its
LinfordsLunchbox wrote:WRONG it's Profondo Asbo.....
Yeah, i think he uses the name "ThisYear"
Police Hater
I Love Making Money Illegally
Fuuuuuuck the Police
Adrenaline Junkie
Etc etc etc
Tedious attention seeking garbage.
7:49am Tue 3 Jun 14
John Right says...
10:16am Tue 3 Jun 14
ShipShape says...
5:56pm Tue 3 Jun 14
Howard Cháse says...
ShipShape wrote:He has to have something to do in the evenings noe his mummy won't let him play out as the streetlights are turned off and he might skin his knee falling over while playing runouts
I suppose it helps that he has a hobby when the nights draw in.
Comments are closed on this article.


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Kate just got the news. She would be reassigned to the corporate office back in Denver. She had been working on an out of state project for the last six months. Now that the loose ends were wrapped up she was looking forward to returning home. Kate called her friend Judy. She couldn't wait to share the news with her best friend. There was no answer so Kate left a message. That evening Kate's mom called and told her that Judy killed herself by slashing her wrists in a warm bath. There was no note. Kate was devastated. She booked a flight back to Denver the next afternoon. When Kate got the mail the next morning there was a letter from Judy. A cold chill ran through Kate's body as she tore the envelope open.
Dear Kate,
I can't face living anymore. I didn't want you to try to stop me from ending my life so I am going to write and mail this first. By the time you receive this letter, I will be dead. I have been having sex with my boss Barry Jacobs. I kept this hidden from everyone. He said his divorce would be final any day and we wouldn't have to hide our love for each other. He just dumped me and called me a worthless whore. He told me it would be stupid for him to leave his successful wife for a loser like me. Oh, did I mention, he fired me too! I feel so cheap and worthless. I love you Kate, sorry I let you down.
Kate stood there in shock. Her hand was shaking as tears splattered on the letter she still clutched. Kate felt helpless and empty inside. Sorrow and anger took command of all her thoughts. Judy's death was a reality. The event lived on the indelible backside of history and could not be changed. Kate decided she would not share this letter with anyone. She didn't want to tarnish Judy's reputation any more than the damage already done by the suicide. Kate did not even know who this Barry Jacobs was, but she vowed to ruin him.
After Judy's funeral Kate did some research on Barry Jacobs. He managed a nationwide building supply chain store. His wife owned and operated a successful hair salon and beauty supply store in the Lincoln Park area of Denver. Kate went to the building supply store and checked out Barry. He was about 40 years old and fit. He had short brown hair and blue eyes and was not bad looking. Kate stood close enough to observe Barry as he talked to two of his employees. She noticed right away that he seemed arrogant and dominant. Kate then drove to the hair salon and bought some shampoo so she could check out his wife. Her name was Helen and she was a little younger than Barry. She had shoulder length brown hair and brown eyes. She had a pretty face and was about 40 pounds overweight. She seemed very friendly and happy. Kate noted what time the salon closed and came back a little before and waited. When Helen came out she followed her home. She lived in an upscale neighborhood north of Denver in a large ranch style home. Kate didn't want to draw attention to herself or her car so she went around the circle and back out of the neighborhood.
Kate took the next few weeks to move back to Denver and get an apartment. She constantly thought about what she could do to Barry to make his life miserable. One day an idea came to her and the more she thought about it, the better she liked it. She would seduce Barry and film him having sex with her. Once that was done she could send it to his wife and post it on the internet. She would wear a wig and make sure she could not be recognized in the video. Kate was pretty and shapely. She knew Barry would be interested if she planned it right. She worked on idea after idea in her head while she was eating, driving, and even working at her job. She drove by the store and noted what time Barry usually left and which days he worked and where he parked. Kate followed him to see where he went. Most of the time he went home after work and got there about 7:30 pm. Finally Kate devised her plan. She purchased a blonde wig to cover brown hair. Kate also bought a video camera for her laptop computer and set up the software to record and save the video. She set up the laptop to play a music cd and put up the screen saver but the video camera would run at the same time and record everything to the hard drive.
Kate rented a car and a motel room at the Hampton Inn about a mile from Barry's store. She left her laptop there with a few music CD's and a suitcase with some clothes and toiletries. She wore black lace bikini panties and a black lace push up bra that allowed her to show plenty of cleavage. Black slacks and a low cut white blouse. She put the blonde wig on and her best perfume. Kate checked herself in the mirror. She looked good. She drove over to Barry's store and waited for him to come out and head for his car. Kate started walking toward him. She was looking at the ground as she walked. However, she looked up when Barry was about ten yards away. He was looking at her and she caught his eye. She gave a small smile and nod of acknowledgement. Barry smiled back and seemed pleased to get a smile and nod from such an attractive woman. Just after they passed each other Kate dropped her purse and collapsed. Barry turned around and said, "Are you alright? Hello."
Kate kept her eyes closed and pretended not to hear but she was aware Barry had walked up and was kneeling next to her.
"Hello there, can you hear me?" Barry said as he touched her shoulder.
Kate lifted her head and looked confused.
"I'm sorry, I must have fainted. My doctor changed my pain medication yesterday and I picked the new pills up just before I left Los Angeles. I am staying at the Hampton and took my new pills about an hour ago and they hit me like a ton of bricks." Kate said sitting up on the ground next to Barry.
"Can you help me stand up, I still feel a little woozy," Kate said reaching a hand out for Barry to take.
Barry stood up and held Kate's hand while she stood. Kate closed her eyes briefly and swayed while Barry still held her hand, then she opened them again.
"You are such a nice man to help me." Kate said looking up into his eyes then she made herself wobble just a little.
"Do you want me to call an ambulance or a friend?" Barry offered.
"I don't have any friends here, I have a business meeting tomorrow then I am leaving for L.A. again. I just won't take any more pills till I get home. I am afraid to drive my rental car while I feel like this. I can pick it up in the morning. I just need to get back to my room and wait for these pills to wear off. Can you help me get a cab or do you know someone that could take me back to my room?"
"I can drop you off at the Hampton, I go right by there," Barry offered.
"I feel so lucky you were there to help me, you are so kind, and awfully good looking. I hope that does not embarrass you but these pain pills have me feeling pretty loose, and you are good looking so there. I would really appreciate it if you could help me to my room. My name is Anne by the way."
"My name is Bill and it is nice to meet you," Barry said lying just in case.
Kate walked with Barry to his car and Barry opened the passenger door for her to get in. Kate kissed Barry on the cheek before getting in.
"You are so sweet to do this for me when you don't even know me and will never even see me again after today. I just love you for that!" Kate got in the car and waited for Barry to get in. Kate could see Barry was buying into the whole scenario.
"Do you have a steady boyfriend?" Barry asked as he was pulling out of the parking lot.
"I have lots of boy toys," Kate said with a huge grin while giving Barry's thigh a couple of pats.
"You're pretty cute yourself, I can see why they guys go for you Anne," Barry said taking a look at Kate's chest and smiling.
"Are you going to come up and help me get ready for bed handsome?" Kate said bluntly and with a cute smile looking like it would be such a treat.
"Of course I will see you to your room. I wouldn't want you passing out in the halls."
"You are so nice Bill. I can't tell you how much this means to me. Will you let me give you a real kiss to thank you, when we get to my room? It will be my way of saying thanks and make me feel better for causing you to go out of your way."
"Sure, if it will make you feel better," Barry said parking next to the Inn.
They went in the side entrance and took the elevator to the third floor. Kate got the card to unlock the door from her purse as they walked.
"Here it is," Kate said stopping in front of room 213. She slid the card and pushed the door when the green light came on. Kate walked in first and Barry followed her closing the door. Kate set her purse on the table and turned facing Barry. She held her arms up beckoning him to embrace her.
"Come and get your reward Bill," she said with a sexy voice and smile.
Barry pulled her tightly against him rubbing his chest against her boobs and pressing his crotch against her thigh. Kate could feel his erection and realized his cock was on the large side. Kate gave Barry a long and passionate kiss but did not open her mouth to invite his tongue. Kate lowered her hands and grabbed the cheeks of Barry's ass. She pulled him harder against her thigh and wiggled her leg against his erection letting him know that she was fully aware of it and liked it. When she broke the kiss she said softly in his ear, "It seems like your lips are not the only thing you have worth kissing. Feeling your cock against my leg has made me very horny. If you can stay a few minutes I would like to taste that big boy. I have been told I give a hell of a good blow job."
Barry ground his erection against Kate's thigh in small circles like he was dry fucking her leg.
"I can certainly spare a few minutes for the joy of sticking my cock in your mouth." Barry said somewhat arrogantly but with a polite smile.
"Let me drop some classical music in my laptop while you take your pants off. I love sucking dick to classical music, letting my tongue dance to the rhythm along a man's cock."
"Sure Anne, whatever turns you on!" Barry said as he was taking he shoes off.
Kate turned on the laptop and started the video capture program and then put in a Johann Strauss CD and turned the sound down so Barry would be heard over the music. When Kate turned around Barry stood there wearing only his tee shirt and holding his large thick cock by the base with his left hand like it was a prize any girl would beg for. Kate let her eyes get big and flashed a big smile while looking at it. She unbuttoned her blouse at slipped it off. Barry was admiring her tits bulging out of the sexy lace bra. She kicked her shoes off and stepped out of her slacks. Barry's eyes were roving all over her and his cock was twitching with anticipation. Kate knew the camera was covering most of the room being six feet from the action. She knelt in front of Barry's cock.
Kate slipped her mouth over the head. She knew she could not take his whole cock in her mouth without gagging. She worked the top half following the music. She concentrated on the rim and the underneath of the head. Gary started moaning as she sucked on his head and hungrily lashed him with her tongue. Kate stopped and looked up at Barry.
"I saw your wedding ring and I don't care. Do I suck cock better than your wife?" She didn't wait for an answer but went back to working his cock again just using her lips to working on his head sucking and licking it all around in circles.
"Oh yeah baby, you suck my cock like a woman should. My wife is a lousy cock sucker. Oh yeah, keep doing that, my god that feels good."
Kate was thinking that some women don't consider their husbands getting a blow job as offensive as actually fucking another woman. Kate changed her rhythm and intensity so Barry would not cum yet. His moaning quieted down a little.
"I know you like this blow job, but I have to have your large gorgeous cock in me. My pussy is wet and aching for you. If you want I can finish sucking you off after I get some of this."
Before Barry could respond Kate sat on the edge of the bed and slipped her panties off. She spread her legs showing her neatly trimmed pussy. Barry walked up and parted her lips with his throbbing cock. He stood alongside the bed and rubbed his head up and down inside her folds. Kate scooted back on the bed so Barry would have to climb up on it to put his cock in her. That way his ass wouldn't block so much of the picture that was recording. Barry's cock followed her pussy onto the bed and he slipped it in her moist hole forcefully right to the hilt. Kate gasped for a minute at having her hole stuffed so suddenly. Barry grinned.
"Yeah, he is a big boy. The girls really like him."
Barry got a rhythm building and was actually going along with the music being played on the laptop. Kate knew that the piece playing was picking up speed and she got very excited as Barry's cock rammed her faster and faster. Kate's orgasm was eminent. She forgot who was fucking her and why, all that mattered was finishing what was starting. She locked her legs around Barry and her pussy went into glorious convulsions. His thick cock was rubbing every part of her insides. She yelled "Oh god, I'm coming!" Just as her orgasm peaked her fingernails dug into Barry's back. Her excitement caused Barry's cock to explode in her. He groaned loudly as he came. She felt him slow down but continue to bury his wad all the way in her as he milked all his juices out. She felt his cum dripping between the cheeks of her ass as their combined juices flowed back out her hole. His body went limp as most of his weight fell on her she could hardly breathe. Realizing this he lifted his weight with his arms.
"I could feel your pussy spasm when you came. I was going to pull out and cum in your mouth but your pussy was sucking my cock and I didn't want it to stop. That was the best fuck I have had in a long time. You are amazing Anne."
"I think you know how much I enjoyed it. I have never had a man fill me like you did Bill. I wish I was being sent to Denver more often but I rarely come here."
Barry stood up and grabbed some Kleenex off the night stand and cleaned his dick. Kate went in the bathroom and used toilet paper to wipe off some of the mess. When she came out Barry had his pants on and was tying his shoes.
"I have to go, but let me leave you my cell phone number. If you're ever back in town call me. I would be happy to hook up with you again. Barry wrote the number on the pad by the phone. Kate kissed him on the cheek and put the number in her purse.
"Don't be surprised if you hear from me someday, you were awesome. Goodbye and thanks again." Kate said as Barry walked down the hall. Kate called a cab to take her to the rental car showered and changed clothes before checking out. After she got in the rental car she threw the wig and the clothes she had worn in a dumpster. She didn't want to be reminded of this day by wearing them again. That night she checked the video, did some minor editing and burned a DVD. She mailed a copy to Helen at the store with the words "Personal to be opened by the addressee only" on the envelope. Kate enclosed a small typewritten note.
Do not let your husband see this video until after you have watched it. She signed it, a friend.
Kate decided since she enjoyed the sex with Barry and since Judy's suicide was not all his fault, she would destroy the video and not post it on the internet. Ruining his marriage was appropriate enough!
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
Season 2 of the Terence Winter ("The Sopranos") created, Martin Scorsese-exec-produced "Boardwalk Empire" ended in a spectacularly bloody and vengeful fashion that left many viewers in mourning (spoilers will follow for those who have not seen the show).
For those who haven't been playing along -- and we admittedly caught up after the fact -- HBO's "Boardwalk Empire" centers on the gangsters and corrupt politicians and bureaucrats who ran Atlantic City during Prohibition in the early 1920s (one of the clever elements of the show is how it almost acts as a prequel to the celebrity American Gangster era of the late '20s and '30s which included folks like Al Capone, Bugsy Siegel, "Lucky" Luciano, Meyer Lansky; all of whom appear on the show as budding mobsters before they were kingpins).
In Season 1 we were introduced to Enoch "Nucky" Thompson (Steve Buscemi in an unlikely leading role that many thought he was miscast in, but has since grown into), the Atlantic City treasurer who's pulling most of the city's purse strings. More conniving and smart than violent and reckless like most of his contemporaries, Nucky's got control of the booze still flowing into the city, the cops under his thumb, led by his brother Eli Thompson (Shea Whigham), the negroes (as led by Chalky White played by Michael Kenneth Williams) and various politicians on the local, state and federal level (Christopher McDonald, Robert Clohessy, and William Hill). His main adversary was the cunning, Jewish mobster/businessman/gambler Arnold Rothstein (played with wonderfully coiled menace by Michael Stuhlbarg).
But shady businessman are always (and constantly) making deals with the devils, so by Season 2, Nucky and Rothstein had come to a mutually benefitting and understanding truce. Yet, frustrated by Nucky's scheming ways, getting too big for their britches and craving a bigger piece of the pie, the true conflicts of season 2 were all the ambitious underlings. As Nucky said in the key line of season 2, episode 8 to Rothstein and Johnny Torrio (Greg Antonacci), Chicago's mob boss, "the pups have grown fangs, gentleman."
Thanks to the colluding influence of his manipulative mother (Gretchen Mol) and estranged father (Dabney Coleman, also Nucky's mentor and predecessor), Nucky's own ward James "Jimmy" Darmody (a brooding Michael Pitt in probably his finest role to date) and his pals organized their own coup d'etat that included Eli Thompson, Rothstein's low-level foot soldiers ("Lucky" Luciano and Meyer Lansky) and low-level wannabe gangster Chicago's Al Capone (Stephen Graham). And as the Bureau of Prohibition and the Assistant U.S. Attorney hovered (represented by Michael Shannon and Julianne Nicholson), investigating Nucky for various criminal charges (election fraud and murder, culminating in very public indictments and trials), the underlings struck when he was on the ropes politically, putting a stranglehold on the booze and convincing the local politicians that Nucky was now a liability and they should jump ship. They posited the young Darmody, the heir of the Commodore (Coleman), should run the city in Nucky's place. As this coalition grew stronger in power, it looked like Nucky would not only lose it all, but potentially face the electric chair.
But for Darmody --who was essentially like a son to Nucky, the father figure putting him through college and taking care of him since he was a child -- the crown weighed heavy. With a disatisfied wife, Angela (Aleksa Palladino), trying to escape his cold and distant manner, the still emotionally shellshocked WWI veteran turned unlikely Atlantic City figurehead soon realized he didn't possess Nucky's keen finesse and art of dealmaking. After his wife was murdered by a Philadelphian butcher/gangster (William Forsythe) that Darmody had double crossed trying to maintain his loosening grip on power, he returned to Atlantic City in a remorseful mood attempting to broker peace with Nucky, his former ally, boss and defacto progenitor.
But Darmody had made his bed with his grand betrayal (something it seems that he knew in his final moments) and Nucky used him to help turn the tide of his conviction (by having Darmody kill key witnesses) and then murdered him as payback. Like "Game Of Thrones," this killing of a major character was a deep shock to audiences whose sympathies lay with the conflicted and handsome young lead. And like Walter White in "Breaking Bad," the scheming Nucky Thompson, who usually would rather extort or barter with a man before killing him, became even more ruthless, corrupt and soulless. Having narrowly escaped jail or death and betrayed by almost everyone around him, Nucky was in no mood for forgiveness or compassion and had to convey that those who double crossed him would do so at their own peril; even family.
JimmyMackey | September 22, 2012 2:46 PM
I think with a show like âBoardwalk Empire,â the more evil the characters are, the more shining any charactersâ benevolent act becomes. Sometimes when things seem the darkest, we appreciate the blessings more, and I think even in a life of crime, avoiding jail is still a blessing. This season looks to be just as good as the first two. I started watching from the beginning because of the fanfare that preceded it, so I guess advertising CAN be effective. I use my Hopper to record it now and I will be saving all of this seasonâs episodes, so my Dish coworker can come over and we can watch them again later; the thousand hour capacity make it easy to keep a library of my favorite shows.
Greg | September 19, 2012 12:14 PM
This is not a review!!! You simply recapped what happened. Don't you have an opinion on what things mean in the show? Allusions? Conclusions? Things to come? Don't just say, "we'll have to keep an eye on that plot line." THAT'S NOT A REVIEW! "Another great acting performance." NOT A REVIEW!
If you could, please be more specific. At what point in time did you feel that the actress displayed her great acting talents? Be specific.
Please be more specific with your 'insights' or take out the word 'review' from your headline...you can leave in 'recap'...that's what you did.
Good luck in future writings,
Barron Network | September 18, 2012 10:12 AM
I loved every moment of this episode and Gyp Rosetti has to be hands down my favorite new character. He is outright gangster and he is going to cause so much trouble for Nucky. Gillian trying to erase angela is just downright creepy...I mean she creeped me out when she slept with Jimmy...is she going to do that with Tommy...somethings off with her , Nucky has completely changed and like the saying goes you can't be half a gangster. I thought when he said "untie him but before you do put a F**ckin bullet in his head" was epic!
Rosie | September 17, 2012 1:53 PM
["After his wife was murdered by a Chicago butcher/gangster (William Forsythe) that Darmody had double crossed trying to maintain his loosening grip on power, he returned to Atlantic City in a remorseful mood attempting to broker peace with Nucky, his former ally, boss and defacto progenitor."]
Forsythe's character was from Philadelphia, not Chicago.


text:
PEORIA, Ill. -- The Sierra Club has filed an appeal of the Illinois Polution Control Board's decision to give Dynergy Corporation a variance on pollution requirements.
The Pollution control board gave Dynergy five additional years, until 2020, to meet state pollution control standards.
Dynergy, a Texas-based energy company, bought five coal-fired power plants from Ameren early last month.
That sale included the Edwards power plant in Bartonville and the Duck Creek plant in Canton.
Ameren and Dynergy had argued that the cost of plant upgrades would lead it to shut down.


text:
Quality Matters at LCCC
Lorain County Community College is committed to implement the Quality Matters standards for the design of online and hybrid courses, and we are systematically building and evaluating our courses based on these rigorous, research-supported standards. The Quality Matters standards assure that the online components of these courses promote learner engagement and provide students with all the tools and information they need to be successful learners. More information regarding Quality Matters may be found at http://www.qmprogram.org/.
Bass Library, Room 237(440) 366-7582
Online Classes
LCCC offers more than 500 sections of online and web-blended classes every semester. If you are motivated and self-directed these "Distance Learning" classes can be a convenient way to receive your education on your own time.
LCCC is one of Ohio's leading colleges delivering quality online classes. Many online students are adults who have full-time jobs and families. Distance learning is often most beneficial to students who are motivated, goal oriented, disciplined and are able to work alone. However, anyone can be a successful distance learner if they have the drive and desire to succeed. LCCC is committed to advancing creative learning opportunities: any time, any place.
LCCC's associate of arts degree may be completed entirely via the Internet. Students can also complete an associate of arts degree by taking a combination of online, web-blended and on-campus classes. All modes of distance learning delivery have certain access requirements, and each instructor may have special requirements for his/her course section. If you are registering through MyCampus you can find these requirements in the notes field for that section.
LCCC offers approximately 300 fully online courses in many exciting fields. To enroll, all you need is access to a computer with a full-service connection to an Internet provider. You should also have strong computer skills, including word processing, the Internet, and e-mail. You can identify LCCC's fully online courses by a "W" in the section number (e.g. W100, W660). At the start of your first online course you will have the opportunity to assess your computer skills to help determine if an online course is right for you.
LCCC also offers a growing number of web-blended courses for which students spend less time on campus. A portion of the course (e.g., the lab) is on campus with the rest (e.g., the lecture) delivered online. In such classes, the time spent on-campus is at least 50% shorter than a typical on-campus class. These courses are distinguished by a "B" in the section number (e.g. B100, B101).
How to Use ANGEL for Your Course
Login to ANGEL
Pop-up Blockers - How to Disable
Report a Problem With ANGEL
Out-of-State Students
Podcast Lectures
If you have questions concerning distance learning, e-mail: email@example.com.


text:
I added a couple of new images to the Liberia section of my website. Check em out.
New Liberia Images
Posted by John Keatley / Filed under Personal Work
2011 PDN Faces
Posted by John Keatley / Filed under Awards, Editorial Work, Personal Work
The 2011 PDN Faces issue is out, and Plants Vs. Zombies is a winner in the Celebrity/Editorial Portraits category. My Liberia series also won, under the Environmental Portraiture category. Last year, my portrait of Annie Leibovitz was the feature image in PDN Faces. It's a thrill to have my work included in the contest again. Last July through April of this year felt like I was going at 200 mph non stop, and it's nice to be able to slow down a little bit in the summer and reflect back on the work I have done this past year. It is even more satisfying to have that work recognized by the various contests I have won recently. Now it's time to get busy again. Lots to do and look forward to. The new Keatley office project, the 2011 Christmas photo, some new video projects, and hopefully more fun work as well. I just finished a short video about my experience in Liberia this past January, and I will post it shortly (tonight). I think you will like it.
Side note: Co-founder of PopCap Games, John Vechey (pictured above) trumped my award just a little when PopCap was acquired by Electronic Arts for $1.3 billion, just days after the PDN award became public. Congrats John. Dolla dolla bills, y'all. I like to think the awards for this picture is what pushed EA to pull the trigger. Not that I am surprised, because just days after I photographed TechCrunch founder and CEO Michael Arrington in his home, TechCrunch was purchased by AOL for $30 million. You seeing a pattern here? I can't legally promise companies will throw millions of dollars at you after I take your picture, but… Hey, that could make a great promo.
The list of this years Faces winners is on the official contest website. I haven't had a chance to see the issue in person yet, but I am looking forward to sitting down with it.
John Keatley The Woodsman
Posted by John Keatley / Filed under Personal Work, Videos
I was asked to create a bio video several weeks back, and I immediately knew I didn't want to do another interview-type video. Don't get me wrong, interviews are great and have their place, but this felt like a great opportunity to do something creative and show people a side of me often only expressed through my images of other people. I think this short film is a good glimpse into my personality and how I think about life and work. Sometimes words just aren't enough, at least for us visual types. So think of this as a creative bio/promo, rather than a literal account of my work and life. I hope you enjoy it.
I posted several of production stills if you want a behind the scenes look at this video also.
John Keatley and Oliver
John Keatley // Writer, Producer keatleyphoto.com
Eric Becker // Director weareshouting.com
Brandon and Les Hilliard // Director, Editor, Writer, Producer braindancers.com
Rodrigo Valenzuela // Director of Photography weareshouting.com
Ian Goode // Graphics giganticsquid.com
Ryan Dunleavey // Motion
Michelle Chappron // Hair and Makeup michellechappron.com
Music by Björn Olsson bjornolssonmusic.com
Now For Something Completely Different
Posted by John Keatley / Filed under Blog, Personal Work
Surprised to see something other than stylized portraits? From the beginning, the goal with this ongoing personal series was to create something completely different from my portrait work. Last fall, I decided I wanted to push myself to create something outside of my comfort zone. I would prefer to let these images stand on their own without adding a story or context to them, but I also realize it is important to talk about one's work. If not the meaning, at least the process. I have attempted to explain these to a few close friends, and the best explanation I have come up with so far is that this good idea evolved from several really bad ideas. What this means is I began with an idea and talked about it for a little while and really wrestled with the concept and how it would read. The first few concepts never really sat right with me, but thinking and talking about them with others eventually led to what you see here. Even after I began shooting, the concept continued to evolve. I worked with a great post production studio called Gigantic Squid, and collaborated with Ian Goode on the final look and feel of everything. This really has been an experiment and exploration of a different type of photography. As much as I pulled away from my portrait work in this process, I came to realize just how important the human element is to me in my work. I learned how to respond to what I was shooting and adapted my approach as the images came to life. That is not something I get to experience when working on an ad campaign which has to be planned out completely before shooting. So far, this project has taken me across Washington and Northern California, and I am planning a couple more out of state trips in the months to come. I have learned so much from this experience and I am excited to see how this continues to evolve and shape me as an artist.
Merry Christmas From The Keatleys And A Yeti
Posted by John Keatley / Filed under Keatley Christmas, Personal Work
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. Finally, a normal holiday picture from the Keatley's, right? I'll admit last years holiday photo was a little strange, what with the accident and everything. But the show must go on. This year we have a couple of new introductions. Our daughter Isla, and our yeti who is holding her. We did look into more "traditional" forms of childcare, but everything is so expensive these days.
I had a lot of fun planning this shoot out. I have been thinking about it, and planning for about 5 months, so seeing it finally come to life like this is a mix of pure excitement and a little relief. Although, I am already starting to think about next year. I just can't help myself. It's a blessing and a curse. I just think it will be so awesome to look back 10, 15, or 20 years from now and see all of the different holiday photos we have taken. Not to mention, how many 6-month-olds get to say they had their picture taken with a yeti? Isla is either going to think we are the coolest parents ever, or she won't be able to get far enough away from us when she is older. I'm hoping for the first, but only time will tell.
This has been a wonderful year for me, and I am very grateful for all of your continued support and interest in my work. Thank you for reading my blog, and for coming out to hear me speak on occasion. That is definitely something I hope to do more of this next year. The next blog post you see from me will probably be me announcing my new website which I am very excited to share. As much as I like my current one, and it was selected in the 2010 PDN Annual, I feel like there is always room for improvement. Stay tuned.
On A Personal Note
Posted by John Keatley / Filed under Personal Work
Just finished up a nice two weeks off work with my wife and our new baby girl, Isla. She is our first child, and for those of you with kids, I think it goes without saying how incredible it is to be a part of new life. We are having a lot of fun, and from what I hear, it only gets better. Thought we would try to get her started early with costumes so she will be ready for her first annual Keatley Christmas picture this year. It's actually just a blue monster bath towel, but it's a start.
Merry Keatley Christmas
Posted by John Keatley / Filed under Keatley Christmas, Personal Work
Now before you go freaking out sending cards and flowers, you should know Oliver and I are doing much better after the sledding accident. It was unfortunate timing, one day before our 2009 Keatley office Christmas photo, but the show must go on! We were lucky to walk away with only a few broken bones, a concussion and some mild dizziness. The snowman however, did not fare so well.
Please allow me to introduce you to the Keatley team. On the left is our bookkeeper Nichelle. Now you have a face to put with the name next time you receive an invoice from her. I am in the wheelchair, and on the right is our intern Allison. Oh, and Oliver is on Allison's lap. He is the night janitor. No job goes unrecognized around here.
Every time I look at this picture, it makes me laugh. I like that, and it is a good reminder for me to continue making images that make me happy. I decided after this shoot to make it a goal to get hired to shoot a ridiculous holiday portrait like this. I know there may not be a big market for this kind of thing, but when someone wants it done right, I have full confidence my phone will ring. I just hope my arm will be fully healed by then. (Here) are the Christmas pictures I did last year. The plan at this point is to make this a yearly tradition.
Merry Christmas everyone! I hope this puts you in the holiday spirit, and gives you a good laugh.
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Lighting Technique: The Grid Reflector
Posted by John Keatley / Filed under Lighting Technique, Personal Work
My assignment was to create a portrait of writer/director Josh Hornbeck, and our meeting place was an old theater he worked in at the time. There were no constraints or specific requirements, so I was able to "do my thing" and respond to what inspired me. In the theater, I didn't see anything interesting to me, so I took a look at the lower level of the building. Once downstairs, I walked into a dark dingy room, and I knew right away I was in the the place I wanted to use for the location. The room felt like an interrogation room rather than a theater, but it was perfect. A lamp hung just slightly off to one side, and it seemed to hold a story on it's own. I was fascinated by it.
Right from the beginning I had an idea of how I would light this picture, and I was pretty sure it would involve two lights. For the sake of time, I set up both lights right away, but I didn't turn them on yet. I knew I wanted the lamp in the shot, and I also wanted the lamp to be on. For this to happen, the light bulb would dictate the exposure of the picture. If my exposure was not long enough, the lamp could appear to be off, or very dim. If the exposure was too long, the lamp would be blown out and there would be no detail. The image below is my exposure for the light bulb without any strobes. 1/40 at f/10.0 on ISO 100.
Key Light:
For the key light I used a 7" grid reflector with a 10 degree grid. This gives a focused beam of light with very little spread. The narrow grid also helps keep your key light from lighting up unwanted areas of the frame. I experimented with several different positions for the key light until I decided on the one in this image. I love the light falloff from grids. It is like dropping a pebble into a smooth pond. The greatest disturbance is at the point of impact on the water and as the ripples move out in a circle they gradually fade. It is the same with a grid reflector. The light is the brightest at the center, and it fades as it moves away from the center. If you position a grid reflector just right, you can use the light spread (dimmer light away from the center) to light closer objects without blowing them out. For example, the white lamp above Josh. If I were to use just a regular reflector on a strobe without a grid from the same position, the white lamp would be completely blown out on the right side because it is closer to the light source than the subject. The grid allowed me to direct the light at my subjects face so the exact center was on his face. This is the brightest spot of the light, and the light begins to decrease in power quickly as it spreads. Although the lamp is closer to the key light than the subject, they are both getting the same amount of light.
Once the key was set, I had some definition on the lamp, both on the inside from the light bulb, and on the outer right side from the key light. I also had my subject lit, but the shadows were still a little too deep.
Fill Light:
I already created the shadows I wanted with the key light, but I needed to use a fill light to add some detail to some of the shadows. What I did not want to do was add new shadows. The entire left side of the room (camera left, not pictured) was a white wall, just like the background. Because I wanted a soft and subtle fill, I decided to bounce the strobe with a 7 inch reflector off of the white wall. Think of the wall as a large softbox you don't have to set up or tear down. Depending on how close you place the strobe to the wall, you can increase or decrease the size of the light source. I experimented with the light and tried a few different angles to get the right look. The first few angles I tried caused the left side of the image to be too bright. Eventually I angled the head so it was pointing more behind me than toward the subject. I lost a lot of light by doing this, but it gave me just enough light to gently fill in some of the dark areas not touched by the key.
Here is a list of the equipment I used to create this shot along with links to the product pages:
Camera: Canon DSLR
Lights: Elinchrom Ranger Battery Pack and Head x2
Light Modifiers: Elinchrom 7" grid reflector
10 degree grid
Elinchrom 7" reflector
Thanks for reading! Feel free to start a discussion or ask questions in the comments.
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Follow Me On Twitter
Posted by John Keatley / Filed under News, Personal Work
Rubbing alcohol looks like mouth wash this early in the morning. Trying to get the taste out!
6:35 AM Sep 23rd from web
Trying to get out the door for a photo shoot. Phone won't stop ringing…
11:18 AM Sep 23rd from phone
Brushing Oliver in the backyard. 80 degrees in Seattle!
5:01 PM Sep 23rd from web
I have been a bit slow in joining the Twitter community. But with good reason. Reading is fine and all, but who wants to read about what I am doing when you could see what I am doing. You following me? So I thought, why just write about what I am doing at random moments throughout my day, when I could break out my lights and take a really cool picture of what I am doing several times a day. Sure there are some obvious obstacles to pulling this off smoothly, but it can be done. I really think this is going to catch on soon. Show the world what you are doing right now, in 140 dpi or less. Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best ones.
It is probably going to take me a couple of weeks to raise the capital and develop a website to support this new idea, but in the meantime I did join Twitter. My name is johnkeatley, and at the very least, I will be Tweeting each time a new blog post goes live.
So if Twitter is how you like to stay informed, you can now follow me at http://twitter.com/johnkeatley.
And (here) is the RSS Feed to my Tweets.
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Bus and Ida May
Posted by John Keatley / Filed under Personal Work
Bus and Ida May are good family friends of ours, and they live on a farm near Seattle. Their farm used to be even larger than it is now, but there is now a major highway, several off ramps, businesses and condos where the cows used to graze. Every summer for the past several years, my wife Nichelle and I have enjoyed homemade desserts with them on their back porch made from ingredients picked just several yards away. After spending time with them one evening, I felt compelled to photograph them. To make things as comfortable as possible, I set up in their back yard, while friends and family came over for dinner. A good amount of my studio work is actually done on location like this. Not necessarily on a farm, but in a place that my subject feels most comfortable. In this case, it was a farm. Not to mention, I would choose to work outside on a warm summer evening instead of in a studio any time given the choice.
I have a photography show opening in a few weeks, and the headshots of Bus and Ida May will be two of the 12 or so images on display. I will have more information about the show shortly, and after I wrap up a few large projects, I will be able to get back to a more regular blog schedule. Thanks for taking a look, and I hope you are enjoying what is left of summer.


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Agents with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) are looking for Herald Blue. Blues is accused of stealing thousands of dollars from timeshare holders. Investigators said he promised them he would list and sell their properties for a fee of $400 to $1,000."These were legitimate people trying to sell their properties," said FDLE Special Agent in Charge Danny Banks. "He got them to invest money with him, all the while, intending just to walk away with it."FDLE started investigating after getting dozens of complaints from property owners in Volusia, mostly along the coast. Investigators said Blue was well educated in the system. Blue used to work for a time share company. Investigators said he had real documents with the wrong intentions.
Agents said there are signs to look out for to avoid becoming a victim of a crime like this. Banks said, "When a person representing a sales agency comes to you with an ad that may be too good to be true, verify that they are licensed through the State of Florida, and in fact, employed by a reputable agency. This guy was not."
If you have information about Herald Blue's whereabouts, call Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS (8477).
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4739 NW 53rd Avenue, Sutie BGainesville, FL 32653
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Support Andre!!!
EAST SIDE HIGH SCHOOL IN NEWARK, N.J. A big flap over a yearbook photo at Newark's East Side High School. Staff used markers to black out a picture of a male student kissing his boyfriend from all copies of the school's yearbook before they were distributed to students this week. Marion Bolden, Newark's superintendent of schools, says the photograph of 18-year-old Andre Jackson kissing David Escobales in the yearbook was "illicit" and looked provocative. It was blacked out after Russell Garris, the district's assistant superintendent who oversees the city's high schools, told Bolden he was concerned that the photo could upset parents. Bolden says an investigation into who approved the final draft of the yearbook and the rules about what can be published in the future will be reviewed. Newark school officials blacked out a yearbook picture of Andre Jackson kissing his boyfriend David Escobales. School officials decided the photo was "inappropriate."
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The retired Park Service superintendent stands by her controversial decision not to allow a major bike race in the monument, and continues to be passionate about preserving landscapes.
Fire and flood, snowstorms and droughts, downburst winds and desert haboobs -- 2011 brought incredibly wacky weather to the West.
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Chicken Pineapple Stir-Fry Recipe
- 1 can (20 ounces) unsweetened pineapple tidbits
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1-1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 3 tablespoons canola oil, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 medium green pepper, julienned
- 1 medium tomato, cut into wedges
- Hot cooked rice
- Drain pineapple, reserving the juice; set pineapple aside. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and reserved juice until smooth. Stir in the vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce and ginger; set aside.
- In a wok or large skillet, stir-fry the chicken in 2 tablespoons oil for 5-6 minutes or until no longer pink; sprinkle with garlic salt. Remove and keep warm.
- Stir-fry the carrots in remaining oil for 4 minutes. Add green pepper; cook and stir until vegetables are crisp-tender. Add chicken and pineapple.
- Stir pineapple juice mixture; pour into pan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 1-2 minutes or until thickened. Add the tomato wedges. Serve with rice. Yield: 6 servings.
Light-Bodied White Wine
Enjoy this recipe with a light-bodied white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Reviews for Chicken Pineapple Stir-Fry
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Really tasty, kids loved it, agree adding broccoli or snap peas & julienne onions would add color & taste. Sauce was too thick but that might've been due to using 20 oz of a whole pineapple. Had no idea how much juice might be in a can for this substitution so poured pineapple juice into the cornstarch to the consistency I thought it should be. Next time I'll know to use more juice. I also crushed a garlic clove instead of garlic salt. As a result of my 'from scratch' ingredients, 25 min prep was way too short. Used an electric wok & cook time alone was 15 minutes. No way 1.5lbs cubed chicken (3 large breasts) can be done in 5-6 min.
My family really enjoys this stir fry.
A really good stir-fry with a really flavorful sauce. My family really loved it. Quick and easy to make as well. We served it over japanese sticky rice and it was super delicious!
We really enjoyed this recipe. I used a mixture of red & green peppers & added some julienned onion & sliced mushrooms. I think it would also be good if some brocolli florets, green beans, asparagus, or sugar snap peas were added.
I made this last night and it was wonderful! I eliminated the tomato and added an extra green pepper. I used two cloves of garlic in the sauce instead of garlic salt. I also added an extra tablespoon of brown sugar and cornstarch.
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The El Camino Homeless Organization is now Atascadero's official homeless shelter.
The nonprofit agency also will be allowed to continue serving free meals to those in need.
But on Tuesday, the Atascadero City Council didn't come to those decisions before first hearing from dozens of speakers, including some who complained about the shelter's meal program, which has been the subject of recent gripes from the neighborhood.
The council was tasked with balancing the wants of roughly 60 people at the meeting who supported ECHO — including some homeless individuals and others wearing yellow "ECHO" stickers — and a handful of residents who said they thought the shelter and its meal program would be better suited for another area.
Among the speakers was Penny Botha.
"I became homeless three months ago," she told the council. "I was ready to kill myself in the park right out front (of City Hall) until someone told me about ECHO. I went to ECHO and it saved my life."
After nearly three hours of public testimony, the council voted 3-1 with Councilman Bob Kelley dissenting, to allow the meal program to operate under a permitted agreement with the city. Kelley supported an option that would have let the meal program operate with less city oversight. Councilman Brian Sturtevant was absent.
The majority of the council opted to go with more oversight to protect residents and to preserve ECHO's operations into the future.
"We want to set something that is set and defined and predictable," Mayor Tom O'Malley said. "If a future council wants something different, then we say 'Well, that's too bad … we've got an agreement.' "
ECHO, the North County's only homeless shelter, is a nonprofit organization operating since 2001 with hundreds of volunteers to provide 60 to 70 hot meals each evening and warm beds for about 35 people each night.
The shelter is one that countless people who have lost jobs, escaped abuse or simply fallen on hard times have come to count on for more than a decade. While it's always operated as a shelter, state law recently required cities to declare one site as their official homeless shelter site.
For Atascadero, ECHO, which has recently taken steps to expand to 50 beds, sought to be the city's official spot for homeless to seek refuge. But while the organization worked with the city on regulations to set up the designation, residents in the shelter's west-side neighborhood off Atascadero Mall began voicing concerns.
"I support the meal program (but) what they're running is a hotel and a restaurant — neither of which is zoned for the area," said Jay DeCou, whose house backs up to part of the property.
Tuesday's decision also requires that ECHO build a wall to replace a chain-link fence between the shelter site and DeCou's neighborhood.
Susan Warren, an administrator at North County Connection, a local social service agency, praised ECHO's work. "I support ECHO in every way possible. It's one of the links in services we're trying to create in our county," she said.
ECHO leaders said after the meeting that although many of its supporters wanted the less restrictive option, they were happy that an official shelter ordinance is now in place.


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Official Rutgers University Seal
This university seal is the official imprimatur of Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. As such, it appears on official documents, such as contracts and deeds, and, most notably, on the diplomas issued to graduates of the university. The outer ring contains the name of the university. The inner ring includes the date of Rutgers' founding, 1766, as Queen's College, the eighth institution of higher learning established in the American colonies. The university's motto, "Sun of righteousness, shine upon the West also," appears in Latin in the inner ring, surrounding a stylized sunburst. The motto is an adaptation of the motto of the University of Utrecht in the Netherlands, connoting the original college's early affiliation with the Dutch Reformed Church. It is today interpreted as a request for the enlightenment of learning to shine equally upon the New World.
As mentioned above, the official seal has very limited use, primarily on official university documents. It may be used by university offices, with authorization, as a design element on important ceremonial communications, such as formal invitations. All such uses require the prior approval of the Office of the Vice President for University Communications and Marketing.


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As of Wednesday, February 1, 2012
© Copyright 2014 Gwinnett Daily Post
BUFORD -- A fourth shooting victim has emerged from what police described as a firefight over a soured drug deal in a Buford neighborhood Tuesday, and investigators have charged him with murder.
Gwinnett police charged Haile Lewis, 23, of Lawrenceville, with murder, aggravated assault and drug possession in what has been upgraded to a quadruple shooting at 2283 Ivy Crest Drive in Buford. The firefight left two people dead, including a man who lived at the residence, Daniel Turpin, 23, and another who traveled with the murder suspect to the home, Trenton Jones, 23, of Lawrenceville.
Like Lewis, a fourth man who was shot, Justin Kendall, 23, of Buford, is expected to fully recover.
Police on Wednesday said the shootings resulted from a drug deal at the home brokered by Turpin. Lewis and Jones came to Turpin's home about 2 p.m. to make a deal with him and Kendall but the transaction went south, said Gwinnett police spokesman Cpl. Edwin Ritter.
"The deal fell through, and Lewis began beating Turpin when gunfire erupted from both parties," Ritter said. "Once the gunfire ended, Turpin and Jones lay deceased at the residence."
Kendall ran to a nearby residence with multiple gunshot wounds seeking help, while Lewis left in a vehicle, also with multiple gunshot wounds. Lewis later showed up at Atlanta's Grady Memorial Hospital in a stolen car seeking medical treatment, Ritter said.
Gwinnett investigators soon developed probable cause to charge Lewis. The investigation continues.
Ritter said a 17-year-old girl was also inside the Buford house, but in another location.
"This female did not witness the incident and had no connection with the transaction," he said.
More like this story
- Tuesday shooting spate historic, bloodiest since 1980s ( February 1, 2012 )
- Survivor of Buford firefight indicted on murder charges ( May 2, 2012 )
- Details of drug gunbattle emerge in court ( February 8, 2012 )
- 2nd suspect booked in Lawrenceville triple homicide ( April 10, 2012 )
- 1 arrested in Lilburn double shooting ( February 1, 2012 )


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The gives you access to several online services including:
To access the Parent Information Center go to: http://www.katyisd.org/hac/Pages/HomeAccessCenter.aspx and follow the instructions for setting up an account.
Some people say they want to change the world but they don't know how.Katy ISD has the answer: become a KEYS mentor.Learn more about KEYS here<http://kisdwebs.katyisd.org/partners/pie/Pages/home.aspx>And by joining us at the KEYS Kick OffSeptember 21 from 8-9:30 AM in the Merrell CenterRSVP here<http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/WEB22GDZHWL3HP>Katy ISD Partners in Education . . . bringing the community into the classroom


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Assalamu Alaikum 17 years old .. currently a student of A levels I have an embarrassing problem... I used to masturbate and since 2 months im trying control it and succeeded... but its been a week or so im getting a lot lot of sexual urges and I couldn't finish them..... I masturbated please guide me if i can masturbate like SOMETIMES to get rid of these urges I cant get married yet as I have to complete studies
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.
Dear brother/Sister in Islam, we would like to thank you for showing keenness on learning the teachings of Islam, and we appreciate the great confidence you have in us. We hope our efforts meet your expectations, yet we apologize for the late reply.
With regard to your question, it is very important as it touches a problem most of Muslim youth, who are yet to get married, are facing due to the great deal of temptations surrounding them. As you know, masturbation is perfectly acceptable in non-Muslim societies and is practiced by large number of people: young, single, old, and even married. However, the situation is different in Islam. The ruling on masturbation is governed by some considerations that might change the ruling from one person to another.
The late prominent scholar Sheikh Mustafa Az-Zarqa, may Allah bless his soul, has analyzed the issue of masturbation in detail and, after discussing the different views of scholars and jurists regarding it, issued the following fatwa:
"The only legal text used as evidence for the prohibition of masturbation is Allah's saying describing the believers: "Those who guard their sexual organs except with their spouses or those whom their right hands possess, for (with regard to them) they are without blame. But those who crave something beyond that are transgressors." (Al-Mu'mun: 5-7)
Commenting on this verse, some scholars hold the view that this habit (masturbation) falls under the category of those who seek fulfillment of their sexual desires outside the framework of marriage, and as such they are deemed transgressors. Those scholars put masturbation under the list of the forbidden categories of sexual fulfillment since it constitutes transgression of boundaries. This view is held by the Shafi
However, some other scholars believe that the transgression meant in the aforementioned verse refers to extra-marital relations and what falls under the category of Zina (adultery). According to this view, masturbation does not fall under the meaning of this verse. This view is very close to the opinion held by the Hanafites (followers of the Hanafi school), who maintain that masturbation is basically forbidden, but it may be permissible under the following conditions:
I conclude that the general principles of Shari
That means going to the extreme in masturbating is not permissible in all cases, for the following two reasons:
In addition to the two conditions stipulated by the Hanafites, I would add two more conditions based on the general rules of Shari`ah:
As we know, the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, has advised those who cannot afford marriage to fast, saying: "O youth, whoever of you is able to marry, let him marry, for it prevents forbidden stares or lapsing in adultery. And if he cannot marry, let him observe fasting, for it is a shield against evil." (Sahih Al-Bukhari, English Translation, Vol. 7, Book 62, Hadith no. 4; Sahih Muslim, Book 008, Hadith no. 3231)
This is the view I believe to be the most correct concerning this issue."
Do keep in touch. If you have any other question, don't hesitate to write to us.
answered Sep 08 '13 at 21:12 UnknownUser 0●4●35●114
Pray allah ask him for help also try to control your self
Don't worry allah is forgiver ,ask him for forgiveness
Prophet mohmmed peace upon him advice men who can't marry " fasting " this will concerns you and your body
Never too late to ask forgiveness
answered Jul 23 '13 at 09:00 UnknownUser 0●4●35●114
Masturbation in all cases is Haraam. The person who masturbates will have his hand impregnated on the day of resurrection... whenever you feel the urge just ask Allah for refuge from shaitan and divert your attention to some other things like the best one is doing dhikr....
answered Jul 22 '13 at 14:39 UnknownUser 0●4●35●114


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In the News
J. K. Rowling: More Cormoran Strike Books Than Harry Potter Series Planned
At the recent Theakstons Old Peculiar Crime Writing Festival, J. K. Rowling revealed that there will probably be more Cormoran Strike books than there were books in the Harry Potter series:
The author, who recently released her second novel featuring detective Cormoran Strike,Continued...
Trailer: Tom Felt in "Ghosts of the Pacific"
A teaser trailer of the upcoming film, "Ghosts of the Pacific," which stars Tom Felton, has been released. You can watch it here or below.
The film does not yet have a release date.
Teaser Poster for "Horns"
"Horns," which stars Daniel Radcliffe, has its first teaser poster, which you can see here:
Radcliffe plays Ig Perrish, the never-convicted prime suspect for the violent rape and murder of his girlfriend Merrin (Juno Temple). Hungover from a night of hard drinking, Ig awakens one morning to find horns growing from his headContinued...
Quidditch World Cup '14: Final Match, Bulgaria versus Brazil
The results of the final match of the Quidditch World Cup are here! Go to the Daily Prophet offices to read through Ginny Potter and Rita Skeeter's comments from throughout the match, and see which team claimed the first place spot.
Dave Legeno, Fenrir Greyback Actor, Dies at 50
Dave Legeno, who played Fenrir Greyback, died while hiking in Death Valley. He was fifty years old. TMZ reports that his body was found in "an area so remote a CHP helicopter had to be called in to remove it."
Quidditch World Cup '14: Final Will Be Reported Live Tomorrow
A reminder to all you Quidditch fans out there - the final of this year's world cup will have live commentary. Reporters Ginny Weasley and Rita Skeeter will be reporting on the match between Bulgaria and Brazil as it happens, and their comments will appear on Pottermore Insider and theContinued...
Quidditch World Cup '14: USA and Japan Play for Third Place
The results of the match between the USA and Japan, which decides third place, are in. Go to the Daily Prophet section of Pottermore to see which team won.
Universal Studios Diagon Alley Expansion Open Today
The Diagon Alley expansion at Universal Studios Florida opened to the public today and, as expected, Harry Potter fans flocked to the park to see it:
Parkgoers stood in a snaking queue for at least two hours to get into the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Diagon Alley. Many then joinedContinued...
Emma Watson Announced as Goodwill Ambassador
UN Women has announced that Emma Watson will be appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador to promote gender equality:
"We are thrilled and honoured to work with Emma, whom we believe embodies the values of UN Women," stated Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director, UN Women.Continued...
New Harry Potter short story from JKR
As she promised at the beginning of Pottermore's Quidditch World Cup coverage, J.K. Rowling has published a Harry Potter short story. Like most new material from the Potter Universe, this short story has been posted on Pottermore as extra content. However, this time the new content is a short story of HarryContinued...
Ginny Potter Will Comment Live on the Quidditch World Cup Final
Ginny Potter will be reporting live from the Patagonian desert for the Quidditch World Cup final match: Brazil versus Bulgaria. The match will take place on July 11th and Ginny will be joined by a "familiar face" in the journalist's enclosure:
It's Brazil versus Bulgaria for the 2014Continued...
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The results of the last semi-final match, Bulgaria versus Japan, can now be read on Pottermore. Go to the Daily Prophet section to see which team will be advancing and which team will be playing the USA for third place.
Quidditch World Cup '14 Semi-finals: Brazil vs. USA
The results of the first semi-final match, Brazil versus USA, are in! Go to the Daily Prophet section of Pottermore to see which team will be advancing to the final round.
"Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them" Will be Shot at Leavesden Studios
Though we know that the first film will open in New York, the "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them" trilogy will be shot at Leavesden Studios in the UK, where all of the "Harry Potter" films were made:
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"• First Sunscreen to pass Whole Foods Premium Care Requirements
• Top Rated by EWG with a �1� rating in 2010, 2011, and 2012 for Baby, Beach and Sport
• Free of biologically harmful chemicals (No Avobenzone, Oxybenzone or UV Chemical absorbers)
• Highest SPF 50+ per FDA 2012 Rules
• Highest level of Broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection per FDA 2012 Rules
• Highest level of water resistance (80 minutes) per FDA 2012 Rules
• Non-nano formulation – Average particle size >100micron
• Non-aerosol formulation (High concern of both ineffectiveness and particulates being inhaled)
• Paraben, phthalate, PABA and 1,4 dioxane free
• Applies and absorbs easily. Non-oily feel
• Sunscreen produced in the USA
• Does not have an obtrusive smell that many organic sunscreens have.
• A member of the Safe Cosmetics Campaign Compact
• Official LIVESTRONG Partner: Purchase of this product helps guaranty a minimum of $50,000 will go to improve the lives of people affected by cancer.
• Featured in: Tennis, Bicycling, Natural Child, Daily Candy (top pick), Men's Health (top pick), Competitor, Standard, Pharmacy Times, Men's Journal (top pick), Chicago Tribune, Times Square, The Daily Green, YNN News, Denver News, Triathlete, and 100s of online review sites. Cribsie and Red Hat Product Finalist.
• Travel safe tube size – TSA Compliant - 3 fl oz
Please folllow us on facebook for the latest science and news (http://www.facebook.com/thinkbaby.thinksport)
Why sunscreen?
At THINKBABY and THINKSPORT, we are continually expanding our mission to provide safe products by identifying consumer product categories with known human health issues. Specifically, we target products that contain high levels of hormone disruptors and carcinogens. We then work with leading scientists worldwide to create safe alternatives.
The majority of sunscreens currently on the market are full of questionable ingredients and known carcinogens. Simply looking at the ingredients you'll quickly realize you don't recognize any of them. Many existing sunscreens have been brought to market with little concern for their safety. Not only do ingredients in sunscreen interact with skin, but data shows after application of lotions, some of the same chemicals can be detected in the bloodstream. Most people wear sunscreen to reduce the chance of developing cancer, so why apply something that could potentially increase this risk? This question has unfortunately left many people moving away from using sunscreen at all.
How is the THINKBABY and THINKSPORT LIVESTRONG different?
The new sunscreen developed by THINKBABY and THINKSPORT LIVESTRONG sunscreen is highly effective, falls into the highest category for water resistance and has a sensible SPF 50+ rating. A quick look on your local drugstore shelf will show an increasing number of chemical sunscreens boasting ultra-high SPFs of 70 and greater. An SPF higher than SPF 30 offers only minimal improvement in sun protection and does not provide insight into its ability to protect for both UVA and UVB. Instead, these ultra-high SPFs are inflated through the use of chemical UV absorbers. The FDA has recently ruled that SPF numbers above 50 are not allowed. They have also ruled the terms Sweatproof and Waterproof as false claims.
You should know that the effective difference between SPF 30 and SPF 100 is approximately 2.5% difference. Don't be misled by ultra-high SPF numbers
Additionally, THINKBABY and THINKSPORT LIVESTRONG sunscreens utilize average zinc oxide particles greater than 110nm. Kevin Brodwick, founder of THINKBABY and THINKSPORT explains why: �We always use the precautionary principle and as we expect the debate on the safety of nano particles to continue, we asked a simple question: Does the product have to contain nano particles to be an effective sunscreen? The answer is, quite simply, `no.' �
We also do not and won't use aerosol dispensers, nor should you. Scientists have shown that parents apply 25% of the correct amount when using aerosol. As the SPF is actually a logarithmic function, if you are applying a SPF 100, you're actually only putting on SPF equivalent of 3. More importantly, there is significant concern that children and parents are inhaling the particulates. If you look at the ingredients in aerosol sunscreens, you'll quickly determine why you don't want to breathe it.
How do I use THINKBABY and THINKSPORT LIVESTRONG sunscreen?
Applying THINKBABY and THINKSPORT LIVESTRONG sunscreen
Children over the age of 6 months and anyone who will be exposed to sunlight should use sunscreen.
THINKBABY and THINKSPORT LIVESTRONG sunscreen is perfect for anyone spending time in the sun, including pregnant women, children over 6 months, and anyone with sensitive skin.
THINKBABY and THINKSPORT LIVESTRONG sunscreen is a physical sunscreen which means it works immediately upon application. It is not necessary to apply 30 minutes before you are exposed to sunlight as is the case with chemical sunscreens. THINKBABY and THINKSPORT sunscreen is classified as �water resistant - 80 minutes.� This is the FDA's highest possible rating. It will maintain its SPF after 80 minutes of water immersion. The Environmental Working Group recommends reapplying sunscreen every two hours.
THINKBABY and THINKSPORT LIVESTRONG sunscreen is perfect for sensitive skin. We recommend testing on a small area of the body to ensure that you don't have any sensitivities.
Sunscreens that claim to be hypo-allergenic are nothing more than marketing hype in our opinion. As the population's exposure to chemicals has risen, there has been a direct correlation to things that people become allergic to. Simply google environmental exposure and allergies to view some of this research.
Tips for Application
THINKBABY and THINKSPORT formula applies easily and absorbs quickly. Be sure to apply all areas that will be exposed to sunlight, including behind the ears, neck, hands, feet, and scalp. Reapply every two hours or more as needed. While the sunscreen applies very easily, we recommend not spreading it too thin. Otherwise you will decrease the effectiveness of the sunscreen. Keep in mind that physical sunscreens work by reflecting sunlight.
What else you might want to know....
The difference between physical and chemical sunscreens
Physical (or mineral) sunscreens work by protecting the skin with a physical barrier on top of the skin. Mineral sunscreens contain an active ingredient of either zinc or titanium oxide. Thinkbaby sunscreen has the active ingredient of zinc oxide. Chemical sunscreens penetrate the skin and are absorbed into the blood stream. Active ingredients such as oxybenzone are found in chemical sunscreens and can act as endocrine disruptors in the body.
The truth about SPF ratings
THINKBABY and THINKSPORT sunscreen is rated SPF 50+. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends children over 6 months and adults use a sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher. Some chemical sunscreens advertise SPF ratings as high as 100, however, the FDA revisited the system and set the upper limit to SPF 50 for 2012. The rating system as it stands causes more misperceptions than it solves. In short, sunscreens with very high SPF ratings do not provide better protection than a SPF 30 in relative terms. It's important to note that the current SPF rating system does not rate UVA; it only rates UVB. Dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB exposure. UVB is what commonly is associated with causing sunburn and free radical generation. Where UVA has been linked to skin damage and even more serious potential for free radical generation.
About nanoparticles
In sunscreen, nano particles refer to 0 micron to 1 microns or 1 to 100 nanometers. We acquire 100> nm size zno. There is concern within the scientific community that very small particle sizes may affect biological processes. Nanoparticles can easily pass through the epidermis and therefore could interact at the cellular level. To our knowledge there hasn't been any direct statements that have concluded what sizes are safe and which are not. But in the general category of nanoparticles there is concern not just for babies but their general use. They could have the potential for greater disruption for infants, whose bodies are going through significant development. This is the same concern that scientists have in relation to what harmful chemicals pose on infants. The challenge surrounds on how to do testing. It certainly wouldn't be advisable to conduct testing on babies or animal studies. So they will have to be done on cells to see their potential to interact and then we'll have to extrapolate whether there would be similar concern within our biological systems. We can only theorize at this point that very small particles could disrupt cellular mechanisms that are very sensitive. There is not significant enough research to conclude that nano particles are safe. You will not find a legitimate researcher to agree that there is enough knowledge at this point and the testing is complex. We specifically utilize larger particle zinc oxide.
THINKBABY and THINKSPORT LIVESTRONG sunscreen comes in 3oz tube made of environmentally friendly packaging that does not contain BPA, vinyl, or phthalates. The packaging and contents are environmentally safe.
Each tube is marked with an expiration date.
Note: The base formulations of our sunscreens are identical. We set out to make the most effective safe sunscreen possible. It didn't make sense to make one safe for babies, and a harmful version for adults. While this seems obvious, you should check out what the major brands are doing�.
Animal testing
We do not test on animals.
Helps prevent sunburns. If used as directed with other sun protection measures decreases the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun.
Sun protection measures: Spending time in the sun increases your risk of skin cancer and early skin aging. To decrease this risk, regularly use a sunscreen with a Broad Spectrum SPF value of 15 or higher and other sun protection measures including: limit time in the sun, especially from 10 am-2 pm; wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, hats and sunglasses. For external use only. Do not use on damaged or broken skin. Stop use and ask a doctor if rash occurs. When using this product keep out of eyes. Rinse with water to remove. Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away. Sun protection measures: Spending time in the sun increases your risk of skin cancer and early skin aging. To decrease this risk, regularly use a sunscreen with a Broad Spectrum SPF value of 15 or higher and other sun protection measures including: limit time in the sun, especially from 10 a.m. -2 p.m. and wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, hats and sunglasses. Children under 6 months: Ask a doctor. For use on skin only.
©thinkproducts, LLC
(based on 10 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
5 Stars
4 Stars
3 Stars
2 Stars
1 Stars
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
best physical sunblock I've found
Some people complain about physical sunblocks giving an ashy appearance, but that's just a caveat one needs to accept for using them. (Chemical sunblocks are believed to be hormone disruptors, and they damage...Read complete review
Some people complain about physical sunblocks giving an ashy appearance, but that's just a caveat one needs to accept for using them. (Chemical sunblocks are believed to be hormone disruptors, and they damage coral reefs and are therefore prohibited in some places.) thinksport LIVESTRONG sunblock is probably the best sunblock I've ever used. It's not thick & pasty but rather spreads well and is not greasy like sunscreens tend to be. I think the zinc oxide is more finely milled than in other formulations because it blends into my fair skin pretty well (while still not containing nanoparticles). I like how sweat and water resistant it is and that it has only a light, unobtrusive fragrance.Just be forewarned that any sunblock that claims to have an SPF of over 45 or so can't really be. Also, as with any sunblock, it can stain, though in this case, it will leave a powdery (and not so much oily) residue.I would buy this again and again if it weren't so expensive. I might just have to stick with Aubrey Organics Natural Sun Sunscreen, which is almost as good and a little cheaper. But if some of the proceeds go to funding cancer programs and services, I guess I can part with a little extra dough for the superior product.
Most Liked Negative Review
Not for brown people
got a refund because i put it on my skin and looked like a ghost. better for fair skin. also it was gross, was a nightmare to wash off.
Reviewed by 10 customers
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works well for people who burn
By Jen
from Ohio
Comments about thinksport LIVESTRONG SUNSCREEN SPF50, 3 oz:
I am very pale and burn easily. I bought this to take on vacation and everyone ended up using it because it protects so well. Most zinc sunscreens are very thick and hard to rub in and leave a thick white barrier on your skin. The consistency of this product was very similar to a 'normal' sunscreen and was easy to rub in. It does leave a slight white layer on your skin but is minimal when comparing it to other zinc sunscreens. Was long lasting while swimming in the pool as well. This is also an eco friendly sunscreen that can be worn at eco parks and will not damage coral reefs.
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
By Debbie
from Washington, D.C., metropolitan area
See all my reviews
(0 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
By abbs88
from new york, ny
describe yourself Brand Buyer
Bottom Line No, I would not recommend this to a friend
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
THE BEST for sensitive skin like mine :)
By JC16
from Springfield, VA
Oh my. I have used La Roche, Shiseido, all the " organic" products. You name it, I owned all of them. I have a very sensitive skin, so I have tried everything. Even products that did not cause rash on my skin when I put it on, after wearing it for few hours and trying to wash it off, I will get small stuff on my face and my face felt bumpy.I bought this because this is so much cheaper than the ones I normally use. I am so glad.. it goes on smooth, doesn't irritate my skin, doesn't dry my skin... it's the best product ever.
Excellent product
By Vincent Vega
from Winnepeg
I love everything about this sunscreen...the ingredients, effectiveness, scent (light citrus), texture, and staying power. I bought it for a trip to the Caribbean, since it complies with TSA regulations, and my family and I never got burned despite being quite pale Canadians. Since then, it has been my go-to sunscreen for daily use and outdoor activities.
My new Favorite, love this stuff
By Fall
from NM
describe yourself Budget Buyer
It's has a small white cast but I love this stuff. It is better than Burnout Waterproof and easier for me to get my hands on. It seems to be evening out my complection as well the more I use it.
(3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)
My Holy Grail
By parabenfreeplease
from Los Angeles, CA
I used to swear upon high-end sunblocks, but the more I used them, the more I realize how heavy in chemicals and how chemically they smelled. But I couldn't find a more natural physical-ingredient sunblock that promised at least SPF50 protection from the sun. I refuse to drop below SPF50.THIS IS MY MIRACLE. Thinksport. It actually blends into my face better than high-end sunblocks that try to use physical-ingredients. Don't freak out if your face is white-streaked for the first 3 minutes. It will definitely sink into absolutely nothing.I'm also sensitive to certain types of smells (ex: why I ended up giving up my high-end sunblocks - too perfumey + chemical smell). So if you're sensitive to smell, I think you'll do fine with this sunblock. It starts off smelling like a light orangey-sorbet, and ends smelling like a light vanilla-powder (like high-end perfumes notes). About 10 minutes in most of the smell goes away anyway so it's not a big deal.
Good Product
By Gutsy Gardener
from texas
This stuff stays on a LONG time. It does not come off in the pool and it holds up to sweating. You do have to rub it in for a while for the white to go away but it's not greasy but it is a bit heavy but that's fine. I have sensitive facial skin but it does not irritate or sting. I am trusting the label that it's safe. I will buy again even though it's more expensive because it's worth my health.
Great Sunscreen!!!
By Mom in NYC
from New York City
After extensive research on sunscreen this year, I decided on this one as it offers solid protection, easy to apply, and the white lotion gets absorbed. It does the job.
(3 of 4 customers found this review helpful)
Love it!
By Active mom with 4 kids.
from Tucson, Az
We bought this product based on its ranking from the Environmental Work Group that rates sunscreens on how safe they are. This sunscreen rates a 1 and means it has the highest recommendation from this group for chemical free sunscreen. It is highly water resistant and so far is sweat proof even when riding, running and working out in the desert heat. It boasts 20% zinc oxide and the great thing is that it actually absorbs into the skin without lots of rubbing and you won't be left sporting a white face like other zinc oxide sunscreens will do. It also doesn't leave a greasy feel. Everyone in my family loves it even those with sensitivity to fragrances and those with sensitive skin. I have to say this is the best sunscreen my family has tried and living in AZ, we have tried many.
Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply: After 80 minutes of swimming or sweating; immediately after towel drying; at least every 2 hours. For children under 6 months: Ask a doctor. Protect this product from excessive heat and direct sun.


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The Corn Crib (map it)
1000 W Raab Rd
Normal, IL 61761
Year Opened: 2010
Capacity: 7,000
There are no tickets available at this time.
Official Review by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Co-Founder
One component of a successful minor league experience is ensuring that the organization is tied into the local community, and that the stadium experience is a microcosm of that community.
In Central Illinois, an area known for its agriculture, and especially its corn production, a new team has emerged in the Frontier League. They are called the Normal CornBelters and they play their home games in The Corn Crib. Their mascot is an ear of corn, and his name is Corny. Well, they definitely have their theme down.
The FANFARE scale is our metric device for rating each stadium experience. It covers the following:
Each area is rated from 0 to 5 stars with 5 being the best. The overall composite score is the "FANFARE Score".
It was pretty much a no-brainer that I had to try the corn on the cob, and my expectations were high. Unfortunately, I found it to be ordinary, or slightly less than the average corn that I would find at the grocery store. At $3 it's probably worth trying as part of the experience, but lower your expectations going in.
I would recommend the pulled pork sandwich served on a pretzel roll for $4.50, it won't knock your socks off either, but it is tasty, and affordable.
Pepsi products are available with a souvenir cup size going for $4, pretty standard price at most minor league ballparks in the region. Beer selection includes Budweiser and Bud Light on draft. If you want an import you may go for the 12 ounce Corona, which will cost you $6.50.
There is something energetic about being in a park during its inaugural season. The fans are excited, and the staff is generally friendlier it seems. When I approached the stadium an hour or so before the game, the scoreboard was showing the White Sox & Twins game, and piping in the play-by-play. This really set the tone that the stadium and fans were serious about their baseball.
Some of that baseball zest is diminished when you look on to the field and see that they have chosen field turf for their surface. Especially in the middle of an agricultural community, you would expect them to be able to grow a field of grass. I know that it is more economical, and everything I have heard is that the players like playing on it, but for a fan, it just removes some of the natural beauty of the game. At least the warning track is made of dirt, which certainly makes more sense than the brown turf I have seen at other parks with a similar surface.
When you reach your seat you will find ample legroom, but no cup holder to place your drink. This should be re-considered, as a fan with a beverage in his hand has much less capacity to generate noise, and help the home team.
When choosing your seat, try to get a spot within the dugouts to ensure yourself a seat with a back. The outside sections (101-102 & 116-117) are metal bleachers, much less comfortable than a chair with a back.
Within a couple of miles of the Corn Crib you will find the main downtown area of Normal, Illinois. It's a college town, home to Illinois State University, and as such you can find plenty of bars and restaurants along the main drag of College Avenue.
I stopped in at The Pub II, a bar with a youthful crowd, and everything you would need to have a good time before or after a game. The bar has three giant tv's, with 10 or so additional televisions scattered throughout the place. There are 10 beers on tap with another 30 available by the bottle. The food available is pretty standard with reasonable prices- burgers, sandwiches, and plenty of fried foods. Pub II was named as one of Playboy magazine's Top 100 College Bars, and has darts, pool table, and video games available for entertainment. There's also a parking lot to make things easier, and they were blasting the A/C on this particular hot day, which was a nice relief.
For a slightly less amped up atmosphere you may try Maggie Miley's Irish Pub. No surprises here, think of an image of an Irish pub, and the food they offer, and you will likely get an accurate picture of this place. That doesn't mean it's bad, just predictable.
I was really impressed with the fans at this game. It was clear that in the team's first year, there were already some die-hards developing. This is a very promising sign for the new franchise.
Beyond this vocal minority, the remaining fans also were following the action, and I could hear several conversations centered around the game, or baseball in general. The stadium wasn't packed with fans, but even on this extremely hot day, they came out in decent numbers intent on watching their team.
The Corn Crib boasts that they have the "World's Greatest Restroom." While I can't personally give you a rating, as it happens to be the women's restroom, I can tell you that all accounts are that it may be the best restroom in baseball. Lines didn't seem to be an issue for this or the men's room (which by the way was ordinary, but clean). For a first hand account of the World's Greatest claim, you can visit this blog entry from CornBeltBaseball.com .
Parking will cost you $2, a reasonable sum compared to many other parks, and there aren't any really city street options, so it really is your only choice. It was easy to get in and out of the park without any trouble.
I thought that the entire experience was worth the price of admission. Food, parking and seats seem just about right price point.
One extra point for the enthusiasm and friendliness of all of the staff that I encountered, with a special mention going out to Garry Griffith, the play-by-play announcer for the CornBelters on 95.9 FM, WEZC, and WJBC online. Garry welcomed me into the broadcast booth for a unique look at the field, and I must say that the organization is fortunate to have a seasoned professional like Garry in their booth.
An additional extra point for the emphasis on the community, and a theme that stays true to the region that you're visiting. The Corn Crib is exactly what it should be, a tribute of sorts to the hard working farmers of the area.
The experience of attending a game at the Corn Crib was above average compared to my travels to minor league parks, but not exceptional. I would certainly recommend attending a game in Normal. You won't be disappointed.
Yes, the all turf field is quite a shock to the senses when you first see it. One of the primary rea
Yes, the all turf field is quite a shock to the senses when you first see it. One of the primary reasons for the turf is that both the Cornbelters and Heartland Community College (adjacent to the Corn Crib) will both be using the field. In addition to Heartland's baseball team, both the men's and women's soccer team will also use the facility, so I'm guessing that might have been a bit more than grass could handle.
by jackwarr | Aug 18, 2010 08:01 AM
I certainly understand that it may have been a necessity, but that does not change the disappointmen
I certainly understand that it may have been a necessity, but that does not change the disappointment of seeing baseball played on "monofilament polyethylene blend fibers tufted into a polypropylene backing" (yes, I got that from Wikipedia).
by paul | Aug 18, 2010 09:24 AM
Rocking chairs ?
I noticed rocking chairs in one of the photos (second level, behind home plate). That's only the second stadium where I've seen rocking chairs (Corpus Christi was the other one). Were those seats available to the common fan or were those in �??suite level' seats only?
by megminard | Dec 19, 2010 01:16 PM
RE: Rocking chairs ?
The rocking chair seats are available for fans to buy for individual games at just $16 per seat ($15 if purchased in advance). They do offer a great view of the action. I didn't sit in one so I can't attest to the comfort, but they looked pretty cozy...
by paul | Dec 20, 2010 06:25 AM
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102 N Linden St
Normal, IL 61761
(309) 452-0699
126 E Beaufort St
Normal, IL 61761
(309) 807-4301
107 E. Beaufort St
Normal, IL 61761
(309) 808-1597
1 Normal Plaza
Normal, IL 61702
(309) 452-8709
203 Susan Dr
Normal, IL 61704
(309) 862-4100
(309) 452-0699
(309) 807-4301
(309) 808-1597
Stadium Journey
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Panel: R-Urban Wick: Open Workshops
New workshop spaces are emerging across London which facilitate making by providing an affordable workspace and easy access to tools and equipment. Invited guest speakers will provide a behind the scenes look at how these initiatives function and sustain themselves. Together with Umi Baden-Powell and representatives of the London Hackspace, Black Horse workshop, Rara Clapton, Swan Wharf in Hackney Wick, Create Space London in Wembley.
As part of the Wick Sessions event series, on Friday 28 March 2014, at Swan Wharf in Hackney Wick. (Slides)