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Should everything be Open?
I am lucky to be involved with the steering committee for ETUG - it's a fantastic team of 15 diverse, dedicated, fun ed tech professionals who volunteer loads of time to do great work to advance, share and celebrate ed tech in BC and the people who do it. We all work at different post-sec institutions across the province (i.e., that's a key/intentional feature of the group, and it means we're not on a common institutional system of any kind). So, we organize our stuff (lots of projects and plans and meetings and dates and stuff to keep track of) in a wiki.
Right now, we are deciding if our steering committee wiki should be open or closed.
- If open, we are practicing what many of us preach enthusiastically (open = good), and maybe (?) someone in the broader community of ed tech folks in BC (e.g., the people who attend our events, read our news, etc) would be interested in seeing all the stuff that goes on behind the scenes to plan and deliver the stuff we do. Maybe seeing how we work would make them want to get involved with ETUG. Or maybe just seeing how we use a wiki would be of interest or use to someone.
- If closed, we protect our privacy in ways that seem to matter (e.g., we write notes to each other like, "hey guys I am staying at X hotel during the upcoming conference, my cel number is ######, call me when you get into town and we can meet up at Y location at Z time to plan the bla bla"). Yes we could do this by email, but the point is to avoid that and do it all in the wiki: one stop shop. Another thing a colleague raised was the "reveal factor" – if it's all open and we've planned this neato activity or experience for people at an event, we may diminish that by having it all out there (kind of like posting the punchline to a joke you're going to tell later).
I guess if we go open, some questions are, do we leave it open but employ "security by obscurity"? Or do we PROMOTE it? and how/in what way? and will this change how we do things in a negative way? (there is a big part of me that can't believe anyone cares to paw through our stuff, frankly)
I am all for open philosophically, but I guess I'm unsure there is value for it in this case. If it doesn't matter, maybe keeping it closed makes more sense for the privacy reasons/to allow free sharing among our 15. But I feel like I'm betraying my commitment to openness somehow. And maybe missing an opportunity to explore this more, to experience unexpected benefits, and to walk the talk (lots of people thought MIT was mad, if you recall)
I find this question interesting because it's not obvious to me that it's good, and it hasn't come up before. It's not like the usual suspects of sharing completed things that someone might want to use (courses, code, texts, training materials, presentations, research, lesson plans, etc). It's being open about planning and process. Messy stuff. I don't have anything to hide (except my cel number), I just don't know if there's more value in sharing in this case than not.
We'll see what the group decides.
moving to tracyroberts.ca
a friend decided it was time I had my own domain, and bought it for me as a present. cool!
But…. I have to move there. I'm no WP whizkid (or web whizkid of any kind – this is why 2.0 is so great!), but I'm motivated and keen to learn. And hey, everybody's doing it and raving about it. How hard can it be? So far so good, actually, I exported all the stuff from here and imported it to the new home, and it worked like a charm – just a bunch of tinkering to do on the other side now.
anywho, this is where I am now: http://tracyroberts.ca
cck09 begins!
I'm ridiculously excited about this. I've been sort of lusting after the ETL Certificate program for some time. But, gah….I haven't been able to reconcile questions such as:
- Do I *want* to go back to school again? (um…er…well….not really)
- Do I want to/can I justify the money? (um, i dunno…?)
- Do I *need* the credential? (no). I do a lot of pro-d and learning by just being in the field, having great colleagues, and frankly, Twitter.
- but, but….I want to learn the stuff, see how they do it, spend some time as a learner (god knows I should – I spend my life subjecting others to learning environments I design!)
So because we live in interesting OPEN times, i have an opportunity to do a course in the program! How freekin' cool is that?? so freekin' cool!
and maybe, no….likely….it will help me become the blogger I aspire to be (instead of the fits-and-spurts inconsistent lamewad blogger I have been to date). At least for a 12 week stretch. Rock on.
Net Gen Students, eh?
I recently attended a session called, "Net Gen? Not so much" at the CeLC 2009 conference in Vancouver. This "Net Gen" issue is coming up a lot in my day to day work. It's a classic extreme-position thing that gives people a lot to discuss and disagree about, and eventually land in a more informed middle position. so it's good, I guess. In a nutshell:
- Yes position: Net Gen learners are/think differently, they have different learning styles than "we" (their teachers, etc) – they are always wired, digital natives, they need technology because it's how they think/process info, it's how they've been raised, etc. This idea seems to have been popularized by people like Mark Prensky . Educause put together an e-book on Educating the Net Generation Learner
- No position: Net Gen is a broad and unhelpful concept that doesn't describe everyone – or even most people – born 1982 or later. For an ongoing critique of the hype/research, the Net Gen Skeptic does a great job.
- My position: I'm with the No's, ultimately. Net Gen is a construct that implies an argument for using technology to support teaching and learning for kids these days. I think this demographic may actually have a lot of cel phone users, which doesn't translate to all technologies, and certainly not most of the tech used in "formal" teaching and learning. And i think we have better, stronger reasons for using technology in teaching than this (provides access to education, time/place independence, we can do high quality teaching/learning in tech supported environments, huge access to information, access to most current information , etc). And, ultimately, it comes down to HOW you use the technology to effectively support learning… as it always does…as it always should…
hey everybody, let's BLOG!
Group blogging and trying to get people on a team to commit to regular contributions to a shared blog came up TWICE yesterday in BOTH of my main working/professional groups. s'up with that?
This concept of group blogging makes some sense: if you want an organization/company/group blog to be part of your arsenal of public-facing materials, why not share the task of content creation, ensure a steady stream of new content, make it richer by including many voices, etc.
But…I do notice that none of the blogs i follow (granted: very few, I'm picky and time-poor) use this format – it's all one author. And I also think that some people are "bloggers" (you know, good at it, do it with ease and skill), and others aren't. same could be said of Tweeters. Or writing in whatever genre, I guess. we'll see what happens. I don't like creating stuff for creating stuff's sake.
Not my first attempt at a blog (LiveJournal, Blogger, probably others), but hopefully it will stick this time. Because WordPress is cool, and because I have a purpose?
Plan is to join my ed tech colleagues and heroes (see blogroll) and use a blog to attempt to make sense of my professional world. May digress into gardening, coffee, or other "personal" rants from time to time.
So, context: I'm an instructional designer, I do a lot of Moodling, and I was lured away from my cozy office at beautiful Royal Roads University (for love, what else?), and I now work at a distance. I am lucky to still work for RRU, still with the amazing Centre for Teaching & Educational Technology (CTET) team there. I just do it at a distance (I live in the sticks – at the north end of Okanagan Lake, about 20 min outside of Vernon). This *is* living the dream, and it creates opportunities and challenges that I plan to explore.
IDWAD = Instructional Designer Working Atta Distance
So, this (above), and this (below) is where I'm coming from


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HoopsHype HoopsHype
Manu Ginobili had hair, Boris Diaw was thin and Matt Bonner was pretty chiseled.
Aron Baynes, Boris Diaw, Cory Joseph, Danny Green, Jeff Ayres, Kawhi Leonard, Manu Ginobili, Marco Belinelli, Matt Bonner, Patty Mills, San Antonio Spurs, Tiago Splitter, Tim Duncan, Tony Parker
The big stars from the Gregg Popovich years crowd the top of the list.
The San Antonio Spurs have to reload a little, but no drastic measure is needed to be back in contention for the championship next season.

subset: commoncrawl


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Several times recently I have squeezed a large number of oranges, enjoyed some of the delicious fresh-squeezed juice, and then been disappointed by the rest the next day. It tastes bitter, and becomes worse rapidly. This turns out to be the result of naturally occurring limonoate A-ring lactone (aka "LARL," a tasteless substance) breaking down into limonin, which is very bitter tasting. The amount of LARL varies between oranges and throughout the growing season. If there's any way to arrest the conversion of LARL to limonin in the home-squeezing process, I don't know about it. →
Tag Archives: food
That "fresh squeezed" orange juice is anything but.
I'm more interested in orange juice than is probably healthy for somebody who doesn't work in the industry and, as such, I'm excited to see Bloomberg Businessweek shining a spotlight on the horseshit that is "fresh squeezed," "not from concentrate," and "all-natural." These are all lies. It was squeezed months ago. It was concentrated to a point a hair's breadth from the legal definition of "concentrated." It's not natural, it's created in a lab in a process more complicated than Coca-Cola. If you drank the stuff as its stored in giant vats, you'd spit it out—it's flavorless at best, disgusting at worst. It's only through adding a cocktail of lab-created flavorings that it takes like something that came out of an orange. Because those lab-created flavorings are based on molecules that are found somewhere—anywhere—in nature, they can be labelled "natural flavors," instead of "artificial flavors." →
Sweet land of liberty.
I just discovered NPR's "Americandy: Sweet Land of Liberty," a series of stories about regional candies from around the U.S. Some obvious ones make the cut—GooGoo Clusters, Valomilk, Idaho Spud, Cherry Mash, Nut Goodie, Rocky Road—but I'm excited to learn about a bunch of others that I'd never heard of. Chukar Cherries, Chewie Pecan Praline, Melty Bar, Chocolate Charlies, Red Coconut Balls, Needhams, Modjeskas, sponge candy…these are all news to me. Every time I travel someplace new, I scour corner stores for regional candies. Now I've got a bunch of new candies to be on the lookout for. →
The USDA has mapped out food deserts.
Using public records of grocery store locations and vehicle ownership, the USDA has mapped the locations of "food deserts," regions where people lack access to decent food. Such areas have been popular to talk about and speculate about, but this is the first effort that I'm aware of to actually locate and measure them. →
Scientific American: The Impracticality of a Cheeseburger
Remember that blog entry I wrote last month about trying to make a cheeseburger from scratch? Scientific American has a short article based on it in their February issue. Page 24. I haven't picked up a copy yet, but I'm sure going to. →
Links for December 5th
- Planet Money: Why Burn Doctors Hate Instant Soup
Styrofoam "Cup Noodle" style containers turn out to be wildly dangerous. They spill easily, and hospitals throughout the country get a never-ending series of little kids who have been burned as a result of these things falling over. Companies that make short, squat containers don't have any problem—it's the tall, thin containers that are really hazardous.
- Marc Newlin: You should probably start burning your mail—What I learned from the DARPA Shredder Challenge
Last month DARPA sponsored the Shredder Challenge, an open competition to develop software that can take crosscut shredder scraps and reassemble them. Marc Newlin, who came in third place, wrote up this helpful description of how his program worked. It functions just as I had sketched out my own idea for it, proving yet again that any dope can come up with ideas, but real developers ship.
- The New York Review of Books: Defending an Anthology by Rita Dove
Some pretty great spats have been played out in the pages of the New York Review of Books, and Rita Dove's rebuttal to Helen Vendler's review of her her poetry anthology for Penguin should certainly be categorized as such. Rita is an acquaintance, and I'm inclined towards siding with her in the first place, but I really think she lands some pretty good punches on Vendler.
On the impracticality of a cheeseburger.
A few years ago, I decided that it would be interesting to make a cheeseburger from scratch. Not just regular "from scratch," but really from scratch. Like, I'd make the buns, I'd make the mustard, I'd grow the tomatoes, I'd grow the lettuce, I'd grow the onion, I'd grind the beef, make the cheese, etc.
It didn't happen that summer, by the following summer, my wife and I had built a new house, started raising chickens, and established a pretty good-sized garden. I realized that my prior plan hadn't been ambitious enough—that wasn't really from scratch. In fact, to make the buns, I'd need to grind my own wheat, collect my own eggs, and make my own butter. And I'd really need to raise the cow myself (or sheep, and make lamb burgers), mine or extract from seawater my own salt, grow my own mustard plant, etc. This past summer, revisiting the idea, I realized yet again that I was insufficiently ambitious. I'd really need to plant and harvest the wheat, raise a cow to produce the milk for the butter, raise another cow to slaughter for its rennet to make the cheese, and personally slaughter and process the cow or sheep. At this point I was thinking that this might all add up to an interesting book, and started to consider seriously the undertaking.
Further reflection revealed that it's quite impractical—nearly impossible—to make a cheeseburger from scratch. Tomatoes are in season in the late summer. Lettuce is in season in spring and fall. Large mammals are slaughtered in early winter. The process of making such a burger would take nearly a year, and would inherently involve omitting some core cheeseburger ingredients. It would be wildly expensive—requiring a trio of cows—and demand many acres of land. There's just no sense in it.
A cheeseburger cannot exist outside of a highly developed, post-agrarian society. It requires a complex interaction between a handful of vendors—in all likelihood, a couple of dozen—and the ability to ship ingredients vast distances while keeping them fresh. The cheeseburger couldn't have existed until nearly a century ago as, indeed, it did not.
* * *
The weekend before Thanksgiving, my wife and I had some friends and family members over to the house to slaughter turkeys. We'd raised eight of them from poults, letting them free range around our land for most of their lives, and their time had come. It took the bulk of the day to slit their throats, bleed them out, pluck them, gut them, and put them on ice. Everybody got to take home a turkey that, by all accounts, was delicious. (Nearly everybody has already asked us to do this again next year.) Accompanied by cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and apple pie, it was a meal that could have been produced almost entirely at our home (and very nearly was). There was no mining of salt, of course, but it proved to be a meal that made sense for the place and the time. It's really the only such ritual meal in the U.S. for which that's true.
The Pilgrims established this standard, although in their case they probably had their meal in early October. The Thanksgiving menu at Plymouth Plantation was described by William Bradford:
They began now to gather in the small harvest they had, and to fit up their houses and dwellings against winter, being all well recovered in health and strength and had all things in good plenty. For as some were thus employed in affairs abroad, others were exercising in fishing, about cod and bass and other fish, of which they took good store, of which every family had their portion. All the summer there was no want; and now began to come in store of fowl, as winter approached, of which this place did abound when they came first (but afterward decreased by degrees). And besides waterfowl there was great store of wild turkeys, of which they took many, besides venison, etc. Besides they had about a peck of meal a week to a person, or now since harvest, Indian corn to that proportion.
There's some fundamental good in eating honestly, I think. Of knowing where your food comes from—raising it yourself, when you can—and trying to eat foods that could theoretically have existed a century ago. But you can't take that but so far, or else the whole thing breaks down. As Carl Sagan wrote in Cosmos, "If you wish to make an apple pie from scratch, you must first invent the universe."
Links for November 30th
- Christian Science Monitor: Way cleared for horse slaughter to resume in US after 5-year ban
Congress has passed a bill, and the president has signed it into law, that re-legalizes the slaughter of horses for human consumption. Banning that practice was a huge mistake, for reasons that were obvious at the time, but it took a five-year ban to show that to be so. Even PETA supports the change. The problem was that horses were either being abandoned to starve to death or shipped in crowded trailers to Canada or Mexico, where they were slaughtered (under terrible conditions in Mexico) and their meat sent back to the U.S. It actually increased animal suffering. Good for Congress for making a necessary—sure to be unpopular—change in the law.
- ACLU of Virginia: Norfolk Man Who Refused to Stop Videotaping Police at Demonstration Is Not Guilty of Disorderly Conduct
A Norfolk man was charged with disorderly conduct for videotaping an on-duty police officer back in April. I'm glad to see that he's been found not guilty by a Norfolk General District Court judge. There's been a strange rash of arrests, all around the country, for the non-existent crime of videotaping police officers. Decisions like this will help bring this to an end.
- Print Free Graph Paper
Just what it says on the tin.
- Wikipedia: Point Roberts, Washington
A tiny exclave of the United States is found off the coast of Washington State. "Point Bob," as it's known, is the southernmost tip of a Canadian peninsula, which extends just barely south of the 49th parallel that defines the U.S./Canadian border. To get there by land, one must go through two international border crossings. There are just over 600 households there, and one elementary school. After third grade, kids have to take a bus through Canada and back to the U.S. to get to school.
Links for November 10th
- Nieman Reports: A Local Newspaper Endures a Stormy Backlash
This is the story of how the tiny Idaho Falls Post Register bravely uncovered a series of cases of pedophiles acting as leaders in area Boy Scout troops, as told by the managing editor of the paper. In the face of an angry public very much in denial and personal embarrassment heaped on the reporter (a closeted gay man, he was outed), they pushed on, eventually getting state law changed to help the victims and and winning the Scripps Howard First Amendment prize.
- Bret Victor: A Brief Rant on the Future of Interaction Design
Whether or not you care about the phrase "interaction design," you'll probably be interested in these thoughts about the poverty of our methods of interfacing with gizmos when compared with the rest of our interactions with the world.
- Food Safety News: Tests Show Most Store Honey Isn't Honey
Anything related to honey is filtered out of most honey, leaving a sugar solution. Why? In part because it allows Chinese businesses to dump their antibiotics-laced honey on the U.S. market without any pollen left that would allow the honey to be IDd as Chinese. If you want real honey, just buy it from a local producer or from a health food store.
Links for October 5th
- Chattanooga Times-Free Press: 96-year-old Chattanooga resident denied voting ID
Dorothy Cooper even managed to vote under Jim Crow, but the Tennessee Republican Party has proved to be one obstacle she can't overcome. She's never driven, so she has no driver's license. She tried to get a photo ID, but she has to present her marriage certificate, and she got married a long, long time ago, and doesn't know where to find that. I guess the new photo ID laws are working just as intended.
- Flickr: Fed Up with Lunch
A Flickr stream of nothing but photos of what passes for school lunch in the Chicago Public Schools. Parents never see what the kids get for lunch, but this teacher did. I'd love to see somebody do this in area schools. Heck, the schools should be willing to do it themselves.
- New York Times: After Ruling, Hispanics Flee an Alabama Town
Alabama's new immigration law has left crops rotting in their fields, farmers unable to find workers. Business at grocery stores and restaurants has evaporated. Hundreds (thousands?) of people working perfectly legal have gotten the message loud and clear: Latinos are not welcome in Alabama. So they're packing up and moving.
Links for August 10th
- Cult of Mac: How the Editor of Windows Magazine Became an Apple Fanboy
A lot of us Mac users started off as hardcore DOS/Windows fans.
- Wikipedia: Full moon names
There are special names to refer to the full moon in every month. August's is the "grain moon," April's 's the "egg moon," February's is the "snow moon," etc. Different cultures have different names. Then there's a "blue moon," which once referred to a fourth full moon in a given season, but has come to refer to a second full moon in a given month; either occurs every 2.7 years.
- The Guardian: Paris gets its first 24-hour baguette dispenser
The machine stores partially cooked baguettes and, upon the insertion of €1, it spits out a hot, fresh(ish) baguette.
Links for July 28th
- New York Times: Nutrition Label Gets a Design Overhaul
Some of the ideas to overhaul food nutrition labels are pretty clever.
- New York Times: After Aiding Republicans, Business Groups Press Them on Debt Ceiling
The Chamber of Commerce threw the full weight of their support behind getting Democrats replaced by Republicans in last year's congressional election. Now those very Republican Congressmen are refusing to raise the debt ceiling—or support anything that Democrats or the president would agree to—and that's making the chamber crazy. (Businesses know it's essential to raise the debt ceiling.) The chamber has nobody to blame but themselves.
- The Brads: This is Why Your Newspaper is Dying
Nine examples of obvious mistakes that nearly every newspaper is making online. And, no, "paywalls" are not on the list.
Links for May 18th
- New York Times: At Preakness, Not Everybody's Idea of Fun
It sounds like the Preakness has gone to shit. Their new mascot is "Kegasus," half horse, half beer-bellied man. His slogan is "a ten-hour party to celebrate a two-minute race." That's an event you won't be catching me at.
- Milwaukee-Wisconsin Journal Sentinel: Walker seeks to stop defense of state's domestic partner registry
Gov. Scott Walker wants to eliminate hospital visitation rights for gay couples. What a horrible human being. What was that about "family values" that Republicans used to prattle on about?
- The Globe and Mail: Why you should eat horsemeat—It's delicious
There are very few logical arguments against eating horse meat, and a great many in favor of it. Though I personally don't care to do so (I own chickens, ducks, and a horse—my experience with each leaves me happy to eat the former two), it seems terrible that so much horse meat goes to waste every year, especially in the U.S., where a patchwork of laws and court decisions make it difficult to turn into food for humans.
Links for April 15th
- Jacques Mattheij: Living in the zone
This is an instructive account of what it's like to be a programmer, for those who don't understand why we're working at 2 AM, or why a quick interruption can be so frustrating. I do my best skiing at the very edge of my abilities—it's trance-like, and a distraction would probably send me crashing down. The same goes for programming.
- New York Times: Is Sugar Toxic?
Answer: Quite possibly. This is an important article. It seems probable that what's dangerous about corn syrup isn't anything intrinsically corn-syrupy, but that it is so cheap that it's enabled Americans to consume stunning quantities of added sugar. Ninety pounds per year, in fact. A standard single-serving bottle of cola has over eleven teaspoons of sugar.
- Engadget: Comcast Extreme 105 serves up 105Mbps internet speeds for home users with deep pockets
A 105Mbps connection from Comcast? That's great! Too bad it's still limited to their 250GB cap, a monthly limit that you'd hit on their new service in…uh…five hours and twenty minutes. No thank you.
Links for April 7th
- Public Policy Polling: Barbour, Bryant lead in Mississippi
Forget the point of this poll—the real news is that half of Mississippi Republicans think that interracial marriage should be illegal. Oh, and Sarah Palin is leading that bunch by a wide margin. Small government what now?
- New York Times: Rush to Use Crops as Fuel Raises Food Prices and Hunger Fears
Don't use food as fuel for cars. This isn't a hard concept.
- Entertainment Weekly: Glenn Beck's Fox departure—Where will his audience go?
The New York Times reported a month ago that Fox was giving Glenn Beck the boot. Now it's official. Beck's audience has collapsed, a peril of the sky's continuous failure to fall, and he's got to find a new home.
Links for March 29th
- BBC News: Jordan battles to regain 'priceless' Christian relics
Seventy ancient books, made out of lead, have been found in a Jordanian cave. The text is in encoded Hebrew, little of which has been translated. Scholars are debating whether they are of Jewish origin or—far more tantalizingly—very early Christian origin.
- Village Voice: Women's Funding Network Sex Trafficking Study Is Junk Science
I'd read about the exploding rates of forced juvenile prostitution, and like most people, was shocked. It turns out that those numbers are a total fiction, ginned up by an advocacy group in an effort to get more funding. Good for the Village Voice for asking the questions that dozens of other reporters failed to ask.
- New York Times: A Stealth Downsizing, as Shoppers Pay More for Less Food
The U.S. isn't immune from global food price increases. Manufacturers of packaged foods are shrinking quantities while changing the packaging to disguise the increased per-unit cost.
- Wikipedia: Cessna 172
The record for longest manned flight was set in 1959, when two guys flew a Cessna 172 for 64 consecutive days without landing, to raise money for a cancer fund. They'd fly close to the ground to hoist up food and water in a bucket, matching their speed with a car driving below. The same method worked to refuel, only using a hose instead of a bucket. They only stopped because the engine simply couldn't run for that many hours without an overhaul, and it lost power.
Links for March 21st
- Stack Overflow: Regular expression to search for Gadaffi
How do you identify "Gadaffi" (and its many, many variants) in an block of text? With this regular expression. \b(Kh?|Gh?|Qu?)[aeu](d['dt]?|t|zz|dhd)h?aff?[iy]\b looks like the winner. Bonus points go to the guy who figured out that it can be matched with Soundex, which is probably a better way to deal with this problem.
- xkcd: Radiation Chart
I have frequently linked to xkcd because it's funny. But this time it's straight-up interesting. Randy Munroe has put together a chart that contextualizes the doses of ionizing radiation received from various activities. This provides a perspective that's timely—in light of the Japanese nuclear reactor situation—and also full of comparative values that might make you rethink your notion of what is and isn't safe. Note that what doesn't appear on this chart is radiation from a cell phone. That's because it doesn't produce ionizing radiation.
- Mathematically Correct Breakfast
A möbius sliced bagel. Mmmm…math.
Links for March 19th
- Wolfram MathWorld: Pi Digits
The first thirty million digits of pi are almost uniformly distributed. That is, 1 occurs with the same frequency as 2, 3, 4, etc. That's consistent with randomness, but hardly evidence of it.
- Ludolph Van Ceulen's Headstone
This Dutch mathematician devoted his life to calculating pi. By the time of his death, in 1610, he had calculated the first 35 digits, a feat that by modern standards is a pathetic waste of a life, but for the time was an amazing accomplishment. He had the numbers inscribed on his headstone.
- Gernot Katzer's Spice Pages
If you ever want to know anything about spices, I see no reason to look any place other than here.
- New York Times: Palin's Popularity Declines Among Republicans
"[Sarah Palin's] ratings are now in the range of Al Sharpton and Pat Buchanan in the years before they ran for president, rather than those who were considered viable candidates."
Is the local food movement a passing fad for the wealthy?
I'm putting on an event for Left of Center on Tuesday night here in C'ville. It's about three topics that are important to me: food, local economies, and sustainability. Here's the description we're circulating:
Tuesday, June 2, 7:00pm at Rapture (Facebook RSVP)
Is the local food movement a passing fad for the wealthy, or is it possible that it can permanently alter how we all eat, work, and live? How do we expand it beyond weekly sales in parking lots to something accessible to—and affordable by—everybody? Kate Collier, an owner of Feast! and Founding Director of the Local Food Hub, and Melissa Wiley, Director of the Piedmont Environmental Council's Buy Fresh Buy Local program, will speak about the direction that the movement needs to take in order to overcome these hurdles. They'll address how local food initiatives can succeed in having a lasting impact on preserving open farmland, supporting endangered small family farm businesses, and promoting agricultural diversity and sustainable environmental practices.
Come on out, join some friends for a beer and join the discussion.
Many thanks to C'ville Market / Cavalier Produce, Horse & Buggy Produce and Integral Yoga Natural Foods for co-sponsoring this event.
I'm particularly glad to have Kate Collier and Melissa Wiley speaking. They were my first two choices for speakers, and I feel really lucky that they're both willing and able to participate. I really hope that y'all who are in the Charlottesville area will come out for this.
The new homesteaders movement.
All of a sudden, everybody's getting chickens.
It started before the recession, over the past couple of years, but it's really taken off in the past six months. Acquaintances talk of how many square feet their new garden plot is or how many varieties of tomatoes that they've planted. People under the age of 65 have taken to canning.
Three decades of increasing interest in farmers markets combined with a steady drumbeat of deaths from industrial foods combined with an awareness of one's carbon footprint and "food miles" combined with the fear of an unknown—could this recession slide into a depression?—have combined to give people a powerful urge to be self-reliant. Newspapers across the country have started interviewing the elderly, to talk about what tricks they learned in order to survive the Great Depression, and many of us are taking notes. I don't think it's motivated by fear. Maybe we all want to produce something tangible, to have the satisfaction of contributing to the world something more real than the mortgage-backed securities and the collateralized debt obligations, created by the bankers and the mortgage brokers, that evaporated overnight last summer. Maybe we just want to know that, if all else fails, we can rely on ourselves.
We tilled up another 250 feet of garden weekend before last. Our horse has produced a good batch of manure for us this year, and we're doctoring the soil with that as we haul it up in the pickup. We've got nearly 100 tomato plants, of five different varieties. Onions and potatoes are in the ground. Lettuce, broccoli, and cucumbers are all under grow lights, waiting for the soil to warm up. There will be squash, blackberries, radishes, basil, rosemary, and a dozen other different food crops. Apple trees, peach trees, and chickens are all in the not-so-distant future. We put up about eighty cans of food last year; we'll certainly do more this time around. We're learning to make pasta and different varieties of bread. I made tortilla chips this evening.
Last week I attended a local food roundtable held by Rep. Tom Perriello. A few dozen people were invited, all involved in the production, distribution, and promotion of food in the northern end of the Fifth District. Everybody agreed that folks want their food to be local and everybody agreed that's better for the economy, for our environment, and for our health. And it just doesn't get any more local than your backyard.
I have to wonder if this is a fad, if this is another round of Y2K preparation for another disaster averted. Or maybe how we've been eating for the past sixty years is the fad, a fad that's now fading.


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Back to Document
(HealthDay News) -- Your doctor has told you that you have pre-diabetes; that your blood sugar is high, but not too high to be considered diabetic.
So what do you do to avoid developing the full-blown disease?
The American Council on Exercise recommends these lifestyle changes:
Commit to eating healthier, avoiding fad diets or products that guarantee quick and easy weight loss.
Set aside at least 150 minutes per week for exercise.
Set realistic, achievable weight-loss goals.
Eliminate barriers to your healthy lifestyle goals, and build a support system to help you stay on track.
Get regular medical checkups.
Stay positive!
Martin Health System 200 S.E. Hospital Ave., P.O. Box 9010, Stuart, FL 34995 772.287.5200
Copyright © 2014
Martin Health System
is a not-for-profit, community-based health care organization


text:
I hate when someone dies, and people immediately began asking the close friends and family of that person about the manner of death. None of your damn business, and it's so insensitive. I understand that people let their curiosity get the best of them, and when someone young dies unexpectedly, we're filled with questions. But damn, lay off the damn interrogation. Grief is enough of a pain in the ass--dealing with nosy people is ridiculous.
When my fiance died by suicide, a million freakin' people, including people I didn't know, were messaging me and asking why. I talk about it candidly now, but I didn't need all of that bullshit at the time. None of your damn business is what I wanted to tell them.
A guy I grew up with just died today. ALL OVER my newsfeed on Facebook people are just asking everyone what happened and stuff. Cool, I get it, it's confusing that he died so suddenly without explanation. But get a grip and show some respect. His close friends and family are trying to deal with the shock and hurt of his death, they don't need that. Especially not on a freakin' Facebook page!
Sometimes it's okay to ask. People ask me how my fiance died and I tell them. But it happened in 2011, I've had time to deal with stuff. But it has been less than 24 hours--and it just bothers me so much because I feel awful about it. Like shit, if you REALLY have to ask, at least have the decency to use a private message or a phone call.
I'm also really tired and emotional tonight. But still, I'm aggravated. I also wanted to post this on FB, but didn't want people to think I was specifically targeting them. People suck sometimes.
it's cos people want a story to tell.
and to feel more involved.
i mean, sometimes it's out of general concern,
and you can be concerned and still want a story to tell.
but i feel ya.
my brother passed away unexpectedly this month in 2009
and people came out of the damn woodworks wanting to know what happened,
people who didn't care about him at all when he was living.
it is annoying.
humans are curious.
sorry for your loss.
I think it's a natural reaction to wonder why someone you cared about is no longer on the earth.
I don't think they generally mean any harm when asking,or even understand that it might sound offensive to anyone.
I know that I'm guilty of this when someone is upset and they tell me it's because they lost someone close to them and my response has been "Oh no! What happened!?" to offer my condolences.
I find it disrespectful to be honest. I feel like people are only asking for gossip. Like you haven't talked to this person since when this amount of time & NOW that they've passed away you want to come in here all concern and wonder how he die. Yeah, hmm .. NO! If you were really as close you wouldn't have to go around asking what happened. You'd already know.


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Acure Organics • 100% USDA Moroccan Argan Oil • Treatments (Face)
(36 reviews)
|Average Rating.
|Would buy this product again.
*TOP REVIEWER* antolin1 on 7/10/2014 3:08:00 AM more reviews by antolin1
Age: 36-43 Skin: Dry, Fair-Medium Hair: Black, Curly, Coarse Eyes: Brown
Woo hoo! This stuff is great!It costs like 12 bucks and lasts forever. It soaks into the skin quickly and leaves no residue or strange smell (a major plus). Also, its amazing in the hair - I like to use it after showering at night, throw my hair in a tight braid, then the next day I have great waves that shine like a diamonds. It really moisturizes my thick course hair like nobody's business. Another plus? The fact that its nothing more than one ingredient: 100% pure and organic Argan Oil.
If you want to get an affordable and pure Argan Oil to be your major workhorse, this is the one to get.
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*TOP REVIEWER* MichikoFliz on 7/5/2014 12:13:00 AM more reviews by MichikoFliz
Age: 19-24 Skin: Acne-prone, Medium, Warm Hair: Black, Straight, Coarse Eyes: Brown
I am seriously late to the argan oil bandwagon. It is so so good! Albeit the farm scent, it is so great at keeping my skin soft, healthy and balanced. This is one of those less is more products. I take the smallest amount possible and rub into my rosewater misted face and neck. Heaven! I have not seen my skin this glowy, hydrated and balanced this year so this is the bomb. My face isn't shiny or matte, just healthy.
I am forever in love with this. I just hope that the trees don't become extinct so I will only carefully ration this.
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Theasylph on 6/14/2014 4:28:00 PM more reviews by Theasylph
Age: 30-35 Skin: Combination, Olive Hair: Brown, Straight, Medium Eyes: Hazel
My skin is combo/oily/acne prone and this is the only Argan oil I have used. At first I was just using it as a cleanser alone and it left my skin a little too greasy. Now, I mix this with liquid dr.bronners sensitive formula and it is really effective as both a cleanser and moisturizer. Sometimes I'll use it as a night treatment. I really like the effect and it leaves my skin looking healthy and glowy. I will definitely repurchase.
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HGL on 6/13/2014 2:11:00 AM more reviews by HGL
Age: 44-55 Skin: Sensitive, Fair-Medium, Neutral Hair: Brunette, Straight, Fine Eyes: Hazel
I think this is a quality product, but it doesn't work for me for 2 of the 3 purposes I bought it for, so it depends on the use. I will share my experience in case it applies to anyone reading. I didn't see any of this online before I tried argan and wish I had. I have used it for 3 purposes so far: Hair, face, and cuticles. My primary reason for buying it was to heal a horrid undereye dryness/roughness problem caused by a serum I tried. For that purpose it worked very well.
Packaging. nice pump, glass bottle, but should be dark, so I kept it in the box it came in to shield from light. Not that big a deal but company could put it in a darker bottle. They probably do the lighter glass so you can see the color/quality of the oil.
Results varied by use:
Cuticles and nails - GREAT at moisturizing nails and cuticles. Will continue to use for this purpose. Better by far than anything else I have ever used.
Hair - I did not know that argan oil dramatically brings out red/brassy tones in hair. Had I known this, I would NEVER have tried it. It changed my hair noticeably after first use. I used it a second time because I could not believe the hair color change was caused by the argan oil, and it did it even more so. I then googled brassiness and argan and voila, turns out this is apparently a known problem. So if you want gold/red highlights, it is great, but if you are trying to keep your hair ash, not so much. Also, a huge con for me - It seemed to really make my grays MUCH more obvious, I am not sure if this is because the surrounding hair was brassier or if it in fact stripped grays and made them whiter. Whatever the case, I will not use this again on my hair. Too bad, as the texture of my hair was wonderful after using it. Moving on to marula oil, which I bought at the same time.
Face - I loved how it made my skin feel, helped the under-eye problem greatly. HOWEVER, seemed to really bring out redness which persisted past what I would have expected. No idea why. Did not feel irritating or anything like that. Might want to patch test if you have redness.
I bought 2 bottles of this stuff on sale at WFM, will probably return the large unopened one and keep the small one for cuticles. It will last a long time for that use. It's not super cheap ($26 I think for the bigger one) but fairly reasonable over the long term since you need so little to get results. I think this is a good brand to buy. I did choose to buy it locally at a brand new Whole foods so it would be fresh. I would be skeptical of online purchases unless I knew the seller had non-counterfeit product and high product turnover. Mine did not smell rancid or weird in any way.
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GirlyRunnerGirl on 4/15/2014 7:59:00 AM more reviews by GirlyRunnerGirl
Age: 19-24 Skin: Dry, Fair Hair: Brunette Eyes: Blue
I love this oil!!! I have dry skin and use this as a serum which really helps keep my skin moisturized. I also use it for cuticle oil, hair oil, add richness to my conditioner and a scar cream. It significantly lightened a deep purple scar in a short time!
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*TOP REVIEWER* swtlilqtk on 4/5/2014 12:12:00 PM more reviews by swtlilqtk
Age: 25-29 Skin: Combination, Olive, Cool Hair: Black, Wavy, Medium Eyes: Green
First let me state, pure, organic argan oil is going to smell weird. Nutty almost. This is a good sign. It means its not cut with a bunch of other BS. That is the reason this smells. Argan actually contains a nut like pit inside, and that is where the oil is extracted from. Anyways, onto the product. lol Its a very nice thick consistency, not at all runny, in a beautiful glass bottle with a dropper attached to the cap. With this product, a little goes a long way for sure. I don't personally use this in my hair (I use Its a 10 hair oil which I LOVE) but I use this on my face and sometimes mix it into body cream as well. I use this mostly around my eyes and I love it. It makes you skin so soft and smooth and it also helps to strengthen and grow your eyelashes (any good organic oil, Olive included will help with this!). It doesn't break me out, which is important. I use it either first under my moisturizer, or if Im not feeling as dry, I will mix it in with my moisturizer. You can find this on soap.com (not affiliated) for $15, plus free shipping over $45 so not bad. A bottle of this last me about 9 months plus with daily use. Its a great multitasker and a decent price. Definitely worth a try!
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Ikvira on 3/9/2014 11:38:00 PM more reviews by Ikvira
Age: 18 & Under Skin: Normal, Fair-Medium Hair: Brunette Eyes: Brown
This product works very well under my eyes, although i shouldn' t be worrying about that yet. I mainly use it to condition my lashes & my brows, and moisturize my elbows & heels. Overall it's a good product and i would recommend it, unless you're sensitive to smells because it does give off a somewhat rancid scent or a burnt rubbery smell.
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pezbot on 2/15/2014 12:58:00 AM more reviews by pezbot
Age: 44-55 Skin: Normal, Medium Hair: Black Eyes: Green
I love this oil. Absorbs well and makes my skin feel soft and plumper. One point off for weird smell which may just be inherent to Argan oil but I'm not sure. Will definitely get it again.
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ambiebambiiX3 on 2/7/2014 11:52:00 AM more reviews by ambiebambiiX3
Age: 19-24 Skin: Combination, Fair, Cool Hair: Blond, Curly, Medium Eyes: Hazel
I picked this up at Whole Foods after a week of searching for a reasonably priced argan oil to use on my face. I had been using Atralin on my face for about a month to help clear up some acne, and that dried out my skin horribly. After reading about using oil to help moisturize dry skin, I decided to give this a try. I love this stuff! After about a week of using (day and night mixed with my moisturizer) my dry skin has visibly improved. Long gone are the flaky cheeks and tightness around my mouth. This oil has not broken me out, and seems to have improved the acne scars I have on my cheeks. I will continue to use this on my face day and night, and will definitely be picking up another bottle (if I ever run out)!
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cp326 on 2/6/2014 5:03:00 PM more reviews by cp326
Age: 19-24 Skin: Combination, Fair-Medium Hair: Brown Eyes: Brown
Forget the overpriced and overly referenced Josie Maran argan oil! I went to Sephora and actually tried some of her "argan oil" to see if it really was that amazing - it wasn't. I love making my own products, and I have an arsenal of different oils at home, so I know what a real, high grade oil feels like - and it wasn't hers. Her argan oil (the regular one, I can't even imagine how watered down the light one must be) felt like putting some 50% water 50% oil mixture on my face. It did nothing for my flaky, dry patches.
Now THIS ONE by Acure is just amazing. The price is awesome, the oil is awesome!! It does have a slight smell - but this is a GOOD THING. It means the oil is real - oils with zero smell mean they are either fake, refined, or not of a high quality. This oil is also a beautiful golden yellow color and has a thick consistency. These things I just mentioned, if you google what characteristics argan oil contains, are exactly what you should find listed.
I put this on my face mostly at night before bed - I apply it with my fingers about an hour before bedtime so it has some time to absorb into my skin. Now and then I may lightly blot off any excess with a tissue; I do this more so when I apply the oil in the morning. I have no complaints about this product! I have combination skin (I'm 23 years old) with some very dry patches around my nose/chin. This oil hydrates my skin extremely well and doesn't cause any breakouts. I actually notice that when I forget to use it my skin suffers the consequences. Using this daily is definitely key, I think - using it once every two months won't provide benefits.
I purchased mine through Amazon Prime, so I lucked out and actually got it slightly cheaper than it already is! A little goes a long way, so this is definitely worth the price - it will last you a long time!! I will definitely repurchase this when I eventually run out.
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Top Rated Treatments (Face)
- 202 reviews
Artistry Skin refinishing lotion39 reviews
Calamine Lotion54 reviews
Aloe Vera plant56 reviews
Lavender Essential Oil80 reviews


text:
Yeah, this one again.
For me, it's not even a question. Jack Ham is the greatest outside linebacker in NFL history. Jack Ham is the greatest outside linebacker in Penn State history. Jack Ham is awesome, and a fantastic radio announcer. Jack Ham said Paul Posluszny is the greatest linebacker in Penn State history. Hence, without any question or doubt at all, Paul Posluszny is the greatest linebacker in Penn State history and is thus better than LaVar Arrington, who was a pretty darned good linebacker himself.
A more interesting question is James Joyce. Is he overrated, or, more specifically, is his most celebrated work, Ulysses, overrated? I say yes. Even though I've never read the book aside from a chapter or two. Can you blame me? He writing flows less easily than the writing of Joshua Chamberlain.
Anyway, is a chapter or two enough to judge a book? Sure, why not?!
He stole the title from the name of the greatest general ever (I guess there was some Ulysses before that, but whatever) and the last chapter - the only chapter we men are truly interested in - with Molly Bloom's, um, activities is so completely unbearable to read (I've seen it called "revolutionary" or whatever, but, while there are no rules of grammar or punctuation in my head, my thoughts flow easily, naturally, like most humans. If Joyce wanted to represent human thoughts, is that really the best he could do?) that I'm inclined to think the man was just like a Michigan man: pretending to be awesome, but really somewhat pedantic.


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Leonetti Cabernet Sauvignon Washington 1989
Leonetti Cabernet Sauvignon Washington 1990
Leonetti Merlot Washington 1992
Leonetti Cabernet Sauvignon Washington 1991
News & Features : Features
From Wheat to Wine
Vintners flock to eastern Washington's Walla Walla
October 28, 2003
News & Features : Seasonal
On Harvest with …Chris Figgins
The winemaker at Washington's Leonetti Cellars sees yet another outstanding vintage of Merlot in the family winery's future
October 31, 2007
News & Features : Tasting Highlights
Tasting Highlights: Washington Reds
The state's Cabernets, Merlots and Syrahs are better than ever
July 9, 2007
News & Features : Tasting Reports
Classic Collectibles: Pacific Northwest
The wine path forks in the Pacific Northwest
March 13, 2002
News & Features : Wine Talk
Wine Talk: Drew Bledsoe
A former Super Bowl QB steps into the arena of fine wine as he begins a second career in his hometown of Walla Walla
September 25, 2008
Dec. 15, 1997 Issue : Auctions
Leonetti Cabernet Commands $7,000 a Case at Seattle Charity Auction
Dec. 31, 2013 Issue : Tasting Reports
The Prince of Walla Walla
Chris Figgins inherited a Washington icon with Leonetti Cellar, but he's not resting on his laurels
Nov. 15, 1994 Issue : Features
The Merlot Master
Dec. 15, 2010 Issue : Features
Blogs : Harvey Steiman At Large
Catching Up with Leonetti
March 10, 2008
Blogs : Harvey Steiman At Large
Where's the Beef?
In eastern Oregon, matching up with Walla Walla wine
May 6, 2010
Blogs : Harvey Steiman At Large
A Walla Walla Retrospective
March 30, 2009
Blogs : Harvey Steiman At Large
A Good Night for Washington Wine
February 11, 2008
Blogs : Harvey Steiman At Large
New Book Takes a Close Look at Washington
September 24, 2007
Sips & Tips | Wine & Healthy Living
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text:
Expired Property Listing
This property is disabled.
Grand Harbor Harmony Island in Vero Beach
- bedrooms 2
- baths 2
- sleeps 4
- pool yes
- hot tub yes
- pets allowed no
- type Condo
- community Grand Harbor
- rates (USD) $ 2,450 - $ 4,900 / month
vacation rental description
Gorgeous exclusive gated community with extraordinary amenities!
Beautiful top floor unit, recently remodeled and redecorated,
overlooks golf course and large water hole. Walking distance to
Main Clubhouse, which has golf, tennis, work out room and
restaurant. Oceanside beach club privileges just minutes away. Two
master bedrooms and pull out queen sized sleep sofa. Non-smoking
unit. Wireless internet. Recently re-modeled kitchen with granite. Tiled porch, fantastic! Sleeps 4-6.
condo rental amenities
The magnificent 32,000 square-foot Mediterranean-style Clubhouse at
Grand Harbor is the hub of the community�s social life. Home to an
elegant lobby, three dining rooms, a fitness center, a snack bar,
men�s and ladies� card and locker rooms, and a golf pro shop, the
Club offers the ultimate in traditional elegance and sophistication,
plus an experienced and conscientious support staff.
Tennis buffs enjoy the 10 Har-Tru courts and the professional
teaching staff at Grand Harbor�s tennis complex which plays host to
the annual USTA Grand Harbor Tennis Classic.
Members of the Grand Harbor Golf & Beach Club have a choice of two
championship courses designed by legendary course architects: The
River Course designed by Joe Lee and The Harbor Course designed by
Pete Dye.
Grand Harbor�s oceanfront Beach Club is a secluded sanctuary that
features a large, heated freshwater swimming pool surrounded by a
spacious sun-drenched deck and shaded cabanas, a pool bar and
barbecue grill.
activities and attractions in Vero Beach Atlantic Coast Central
Whatever your skill level, Grand Harbor's two championship courses
designed by the famous Pete Dye and Joe Lee will both challenge and
satisfy you.
Pete Dye designed the Harbor Course to reflect the character of
America�s grandest layouts. The classic sculpture of this Par 71,
6,538-yard (from the championship tees) course with a slope rating
of 128, creates a distinctive golfing experience.
The River Course at Grand Harbor is a testament to Joe Lee�s special
genius for uniting the game of golf with the wonders of nature. The
natural design of this Par 72, 6,729-yard (from the championship
tees) course, with a slope rating of 138, requires thoughtful shot-
making where every club can come into play. The 14th has become
Grand Harbor�s signature hole, winning both national and
international accolades.
vacation rental rates
January-April $4900 per month
April-May $3700 per month
June-August $2450 per month
September-December $3700 per month
Weekly rental unavailable
Golf/tennis membership available with transfer fees.


text:
Spartan Fans Make Their Homes "Glow Green" for Homecoming 2012
EAST LANSING, Mich. – Now in its second year, Michigan State University's tradition of "Glowing Green" will continue during the week of October 8–13 for Homecoming 2012. Across the globe, Spartans young and old will replace their porch lights from white to green to celebrate MSU's Homecoming week.
The MSU Homecoming committee selected "Spartans Will Make History" as this year's Homecoming theme, which will highlight the history of Michigan State University and those that have contributed to its legacy. MSU Athletics Director Mark Hollis has been named Homecoming Grand Marshal because of his many contributions to the university.
Don't have a green light bulb? The Homecoming committee has partnered with Consumer's Energy to provide Spartan fans with green light bulbs. Beginning Monday, October 1, alumni and fans will be able to pick up free green bulbs during normal business hours, while supplies last, at the MSU Alumni Association office, located in room 300 of the Spartan Stadium Tower. Also beginning Monday, October 1, while supplies last, students can pick up free green bulbs with a student I.D. during normal business hours at the Student Alumni Foundation, located in room 333 of the MSU Union.
Spartan fans are encouraged to share a photo of their house, apartment or residence hall room glowing green by submitting a photo in the "Glow Green" Photo Contest. Submitted photos will be added to the MSU Alumni Association website and will be entered into a contest to win one of three great prizes.
This year's Homecoming week precedes MSU's football game against the University of Iowa Hawkeyes. The week will consist of different activities hosted by University organizations, including the annual Homecoming Parade on Friday, October 12.
The Homecoming committee consists of representatives from the MSU Alumni Association, East Lansing business owners, campus organizations and student leaders.
For more information on Homecoming 2012, visit www.homecoming.msu.edu.
For more information on the "Glow Green" Photo Contest, including submission guidelines, visit www.alumni.msu.edu/programs/
- Latest


text:
LsFarm wrote:coalmeister wrote:"I'm gone typically 15-18 days per month, on the road, so I'd have a pretty narrow window for retail sales.."
Greg, What road would that be? The Jeppesen highway?
Yep, tonight from JFK was Radar vectors to DKK, FNT, BAE, ONL, DVV, ILC, then the Manteca arrival into Oakland Commiefornia Took 5:40 flight time, taxi time and flight added up to 6:25. 143 customers and two dogs..
Greg L
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text:
Hey, it's me again
Here to shill again
Please can I convince you to play?
I'm a shill again
I fell in love with Yahoo again
Please can I convince you to play?
Two weeks ago, I put out this flyer to get a Battle Red Blog fantasy league going. I was fortunate enough to garner 16 to do battle. I pledge to you all that I shall be Teh Shoob division champion and, ultimately, the league champion in this balanced league.
To my knowledge, this blog has the following fantasy leagues in play for 2012: Battle Red Blog MMXII, Battle Red Blog The Sequel, BRB The Sequel Part Deux, and whatever was concocted in the Open Threads. On the flip side of the jump? A shocking announcement...if you can't put two and two together from the headline.
League URL: http://football.fantasysports.yahoo.com/f1/372822
Password: wemissrondayne
There are 15 spots open in this mockery of fantasy, originated around these parts by our brilliant Mr. McCown. This is first come, first serve for those who will actually keep up with their teams from week-to-week. Please state which team is yours in the comments of the league. If you'd like to start/join a conventional league, please feel free to utilize the comments section to do so.
Yahoo! Fantasy Football supports SBNation.com and fantasy league families everywhere. In addition to the great drafting, trading, scoring and research that makes it the #1 free fantasy football game, this season also features a brand new mobile app and Pro Leagues, where you can compete for cash! Get ready for kickoff by signing up now!


text:
City of Fitzgerald
August 18, 2008
Where Politics are at their "Localest"
Cam Jordan, Community Development Director, City of Fitzgerald
Listen now [2 min, 48 sec]
On the approach of my sixth birthday my parents decided I would attend first grade in the city school system, though we lived outside of town. They were convinced the quality of education was worth a few dollars per week tuition and the aggravation of getting me there.
Rural city schools are mostly history now and I can't really claim to have amounted to more than my county school peers. But my folks' belief that cities can provide better economic opportunity and quality of life, for minimal costs, is alive and well in me today.
While cities allow us to herd up for protection and distribute survival tasks, that's not the primary reason why cities work. They work through the cooperative interaction of individuals, moving the whole lot of us forward.
You could question whether it's easier to be an individual outside a city, and you'd be right, to a degree. I grew up on a small farm and learned to be an individual mechanic, veterinarian, agronomist, laborer and construction worker; often all in the same day. This occurred despite the fact that I just wanted to be an individual who built things.
Cities, on the other hand, let us find a niche and become one individual, full time, in something we're cut out for. People prove to be more productive mechanics, veterinarians and construction workers as they develop that expertise.
Despite our expansive individuality on the farm, we still depended on a city for what we couldn't grow or wait on Sears & Roebuck to deliver. The city drove our little farm economy, just as cities drive our state and federal economies today. Cities provide the infrastructure businesses need and they foster environments conducive to entrepreneurship.
Similarly, cities add a little spice to life that isn't found elsewhere. I'm still partial to a lazy fishing trip or a frosty morning tree stand, but that doesn't beat watching your kid play Little League, a rollicking blues concert, or an afternoon in a good museum. Friday night football has given many a citizen of my town reason to live long after everything else petered out.
Finally, cities give common folks a voice.
Tip O'Neill said, "All politics is local." Well, they're at their "localest" in cities.
Unless you live in a really big one, you're going to know who you vote for or at least know somebody who does. City politicians live, work, shop, worship and play in the same places you do. If they don't pay attention, you and a double handful of buddies can likely run them out.
They can also amplify our voice at the state and federal level louder than most of us can alone. We represent one vote. They represent a lot of us and if we aren't satisfied they ought not to be there.
I believe most of us appreciate the economic opportunity and quality of life perks that can only be found in cities. Some folks, however, persist in thinking everything can be run better from the state capital or even Washington, D.C.
I believe everything that can be handled in a city ought to be handled there. Because I want somebody I can look in the eye over breakfast and say, "What were you thinking?" Or better yet, "Thanks."


text:
Divinely indulgent, packed with protein and other super duper nutrients, my "secret ingredient" Nutter Butter Butterscotch Pudding Smoothie is a delicious way to start the day! Disclosure: By posting this Nutter Butter Butterscotch Pudding Smoothie recipe, I am eligible to win a prize in the "Pure Encapsulations PureLean Blogger Smoothie Contest". Pure Encapsulations provided me with a free sample of PureLean Protein powder to create my smoothie recipe. As always, my opinions of this product, and all products mentioned on The Spicy RD, are … [Read more...]
Nutter Butter Butterscotch Pudding Smoothie
Chocolate Coconut Strawberry Smoothie + The Latest Scoop on Chocolate & Health
What would you say if I told you this super delicious and nourishing chocolate coconut strawberry smoothie may be just your ticket to a happy gut and a healthy heart? If you're saying "Cheers!", read on for the latest research findings on dark chocolate, gut microbes, and heart health, then get my super simple recipe for delicious health! … [Read more...]
Pour me a drink…a tall, frosty green one!
There are some days you just need a drink. Like today... The day I had planned to share the most delicious rosemary parmesan polenta fries with you, but then things happened and I got so busy I forgot to pick my son up from his sleepover {thank goodness said friend's mom is SUPER cool and understanding}, and I never had a chance to eat a decent meal {bad dietitian!}, or let alone have a drink of water or take a shower because {gulp!} my water got shut off because I forgot to pay my water bill. Yes. Today is a good day for a drink, … [Read more...]
Singing the Blues…Blueberry Lassi and a Blue Berry Basket Giveaway.
Blueberry Lassi~Best enjoyed poolside while listening to Billie Holiday singing the stormy blues. Update June 18, 2012: Congratulations to Sue {#46 chosen via random.org} for winning the Blue Berry Basket Giveaway! The giveaway is now closed, but please scroll down to find and enjoy my Blueberry Lassi recipe, and happy berry eating everyone! At least a couple of times a week, a bowl of berries {blueberries...strawberries...raspberries...blackberries...and boysenberries}, graces our dinner table come spring and summer, when these healthy … [Read more...]
{Not Rocket Science} PBJ Smoothie
I had a craving for PBJ today. Not the sandwich type, smooshed between two slices of bread, but, rather, the ice cold smoothie type, poured in to a glass and sipped with a straw, or spooned in to one's mouth depending upon the desired level of thickness. So I decided to make one, but I debated sharing it with you, because, really, making a PBJ smoothie isn't rocket science... One thing led to another, and this got me thinking about my father, a nuclear physicist, who wears a t-shirt that says "I really am a rocket scientist" Yes. He … [Read more...]
Banana Spice Milkshake
SUPER EASY, SUPER DELICIOUS...I just had to share this mornings "milkshake" that both my kids slurped up happily, then asked for more :-) BIG THANKS to Sage and Berries, a lovely blog I recently discovered, for the free downloadable yellow floral background pattern used here! If you have kids, do they tend to like the same things, or do they have different tastes??? I LOVE hearing from you! Please click here to leave a comment or ask a question, or leave a suggestion. And, if you enjoyed the post, please stumble, tweet, pin, or share … [Read more...]
Blueberry Orange Kale Smoothie: {Hate It?} or Love It!
It's probably not very smart of me to insert the works "Kale" and "Hate" in the title of my blog post... I mean, really, who's gonna want to drink a smoothie with a title like that??? But here's the thing... Big Tex and I really loved this smoothie {OK, maybe Big Tex really LIKED it}, and my husband and SiSi really didn't care for it at all. No way. No how. No thanks. At all! But, as Sam I Am might say, You do not like a kale smoothie? Try it! Try it! And you may see. You'll really like my kale smoothie! OK, … [Read more...]
Simple Strawberry Smoothie
My kids have been eating me out of house and home this summer. And, one of the first things we always run out of, is fresh fruit. Now, I'm definitely not complaining... As a certain well-know Martha would say, That's a good thing! It's just that I'm not too keen on running to the store EVERY day to buy more fruit... Thank goodness for frozen organic fruit! When I'm out doing my regular grocery shopping, I always peruse the freezer section to see what's on sale and then stock up. Each store I usually shop at typically has some … [Read more...]
Simply Mad for Millet!
Welcome to WEEK 2 of my "Ancient Grains for Modern Meals" cookoff and giveaway! Thanks so much to everyone who has commented and participated in my Facebook ancient grains surveys so far! I always love reading your comments, and your participation in my grains survey has inspired me to break out of my "grain rut" and try something different for a change. Seriously! Had I been the one to decide which "ancient grain" side dish to prepare this week, I probably would have picked the "Cumin Scented Qunioa with Red Beets". And, I have to … [Read more...]
Eating a rainbow: Power Smoothie and Popsicles.
ROYGBIV... Do you know what this stands for??? Think back to a science class you might have had... Or, try to picture Dorothy singing in the Wizard of OZ... Any idea yet??? It stands for the colors of the rainbow: Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, and Violet, and it's the theme {Eat Right with Color} for this year's National Nutrition Month which is taking place the entire month of March. I really like this year's theme, because it incorporates two of my favorite eating philosophies: Eat a wide variety of … [Read more...]
Ring in the New Year with More Fruits and Veggies: Part II
Here it is, as promised. The "whys" and "hows" of adding more fruits and veggies to your diet. Do you know that's it's REALLY pretty EASY to consume the optimal number of fruits and veggies when you put a TEENSY bit of effort in to it? Do you know how many fruits and veggies you should be consuming each day? Would you like to try a yummy, super easy fruit laced dessert tonight? {Hint: It's made with oranges.} If so, then read on... How many fruits and veggies should I aim for each day? Aim for a MINIMUM of 5 or more servings each … [Read more...]


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Add yourself to the most comprehensive Latino/Hispanic resource for the TriState area!
Participate in free give-aways, receive discounts for events!
LULAC Cincinnati and Mexican Consulate of Indianapolis organized on Friday, April 13th, an informational session about the Institute of Mexicans Abroad. This session, supported by Cincinnati Hispanic Ministry, Su Casa, and Centro de Amistad of Kentucky, was highly beneficial to anyone who serves the Hispanic community. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the services available with Mexican Consulate and the Institute of Mexicans Abroad which provides a wide array of services including scholarships, child and adult education, and health initiatives. In addition, participants will be able to learn about other general topics related to the Hispanic community and share info about their own services.
This event was sponsored by Cincinnati Central Credit Union, which recently opened a new branch in the Carthage (7000 Vine St.)
More pictures are in the Cincinnati section of our Photo Gallery (click here...)
On Thursday, April 12, FreedomYP hosted "Freedom of Dance" at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, with • Live Salsa Band: Son del Caribe! • Salsa lessons throughout the evening! • Ballet Tech Cincinnati Performing Arts Association • Hip-Hop demonstrations by award winning "Fully Loaded" Dance Group • Peruvian Folk dancing with "Danza Contigo Peru"• and more....
Second Sunday on Main (SSOM) is looking for vendors for the 2007 season of its successful event series. They're excited about the upcoming season which will be even bigger and better than last year! This year, their advertising budget has increased and more people than ever will be aware of Second Sunday on Main.
If you sell art, books, jewelry, food products, or home accessories, this might be an excellent opportunity to for you to present your products to a wide audience.
They are pleased to announce a trial membership for first time vendors. New vendors can try SSOM free for their first Sunday during the season and pay no fee for that particular Sunday. This is a great introductory opportunity to experience our community.
For more information, please visit: http://www.secondsundayonmain.org/vendor
The UBS Scholars program is an initiative of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, collaborating with SmartMoney Community Services, Joy Outdoor Education Center, Cincinnati Youth Collaborative, and University of Cincinnati. This collaborative and community-based initiative is designed to enhance pathways for increasing youth leadership and economic empowerment for 100 Cincinnati high school students (current 8th-11th graders), while reinforcing civic responsibility and volunteer efforts for the Greater Cincinnati youth in underserved communities.
Freedom Center is looking for 100 potential future leaders to participate in a yearlong leadership and mentoring program. Each student in the program will be assigned a mentor. This mentor will help them with college choices and financial decisions. Participants will meet monthly (1st Tuesday) with their mentors at the Freedom Center. We are seeking youth who can be potential leaders, those who are in the middle of the margins. Those who get lost in the "shuffle". This program would be beneficial to those students that need a little guidance and push to become productive citizens. We are seeking participants from low income families. The program GPA requirement is 2.0. GPA is not the deciding factor-potential of the student will be the deciding factor. Participants will realize substantive achievement and personal growth in the eight strategic areas listed below:
Last Wednesday we had the first ever Samba demonstration by Lorenzo and Kim!
This Wednesday well have Salsa Underground doing Salsa demonstration!
And thanks to everybody for making my Birthday so special! I finally had my first ever "Havana Birthday Dance" and I loved it!!!!
HOTTEST Wednesday nights in town - the "Havana Nights".
With FREE admission, FREE dance lessons, Cincinnati's BEST Salsa dancers, and the BEST Latino DJ in town, the legendary Rudy Alvarez, spinning the hottest Salsa, Merengue, and Bachata music, this is the place to be on Wednesday nights... See pictures from the previous Havana Nights...
The new Havana Martini Club is located on 5th Street, between Race and Vine Streets.
NKU is planning the 5th Annual Latino High School Science Camp at Northern Kentucky University from June 11-15, 2007 from 9am-4pm. Lunch will be provided. This year there is a $25 fee, however, there are scholarships.
This science camp will be limited to only 20 students. Please share this information with students and parents.
For more information, please click here. For an application, please click here.
Scholarships to cover all camp costs are available for those students needing financial assistance. For more information, contact Leo Calderon at (859) 572-5821 or e-mail email@example.com)
Another great Salsa night @ Mad Frog, with people enjoying the awesome dance floor and Non-Smoking room!
Sasha & Elier dancing Salsa
Pictures from this week's Salsa with Tropicoso @ Cincinnati's hottest Latino spot - "The Mad Frog", are on the Web in the Cincinnati section of our Photo Gallery (click here).
Each Monday, Mad Frog has its basement open - with the best in Reggaeton and Hip-hop. It's like having two clubs in one: live Salsa/Merenge upstairs with Tropicoso, and Reggaeton and Hip-hop downstairs!
Salsa Caliente had another great show this Saturday, April 7th, at Havana Martini Club.
Next show on May 5th will celebrate Cinco de Mayo!!! Save the date!!!
More pictures are in the Cincinnati section of our Photo Gallery (click here...)
Centro de Amistad/Toyota Latino Scholarship application now is available at NKU, Centro de Amistad office and Gateway.**Scholarships are only available to those of Hispanic Heritage**For more information contact to Sister Juana Mendez at 859-538-1177.
Deadline is May 1st
Please also visit LULAC Scholarships (cilck here...)
A bantamweight match-up between Victor Valenzuela (Passaic, N.J.) and Juan Pablo Vargas (Chicago, Ill.) will follow in the second bout of the evening session. Lightweight Miguel Gonzalez (Cleveland, Ohio) will compete for a spot in championship action in the fourth bout of the session when he faces off with Tony Walker (Cincinnati, Ohio). Middleweight Fernando Guerrero (Salisbury, Md.) will be the final Hispanic competitor taking the ring in the seventh bout of Friday's semifinal action. He will battle Paul Littleton (Urbana, Ill.) for a berth in the final round.
Featherweight Luis Ramos, Jr. (Santa Ana, Calif.) won a berth in final round action with a semifinal stoppage of Micah Branch (Columbus, Ohio) on Friday afternoon. Ramos will face off with Jesse Carradine (Cincinnati, Ohio) on Saturday night. Welterweight Ray Rivera, Jr. (Kansas City, Mo.) advanced to championship night as well with a 28-19 victory over Nathan Valenzuela (Chicago, Ill.) in semifinal competition.
Semifinal action will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Cincinnati Grand Ballroom.
Championship round action will be contested on Saturday at 6:00 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased at http://www.cintickets.com/">www.cintickets.com or at the door. The winners of the 2007 Midwestern Trials will advance to the 2007 U.S. Championships, the lone direct qualifier for the Olympic Team Trials – Boxing. The 2007 Midwestern Trials is the first-ever edition of the event and showcases future Olympians and World Champions.
This Wednesday we had an awesome Tango demonstration by JC and Linda!
Future planned performances:
April 11: Lorenzo & Kim doing Cha-Cha
Minority Health Month, created in April 1989, is a high visibility, health promotion and desease prevention campaign. This event is a collaboration of the Cincinnati based agencies and organizations.
It was presented by: Health Foundation of Greater Cincinnati, an independent social welfare organization dedicated to improving community health.
Cincinnati Health Commissioner Dr. Noble Maseru was the Keynot speaker, and Dr. Odell Owens received the "2007 Cincinnati Hero of Health Award."
Gladys Bell, from the Santa Maria Community Services was the Chair of the organizing committee.
The Cast
On Saturday, March 31, 2007 the Underground Railroad Freedom Center hosted a world premiere of "Mariel"
On the historic Mariel boatlift from Cuba in 1980, when Fidel Castro allowed 125,000 people to leave the country, two teenagers — Iatalina, an intelligent girl, and Jorge, a boy looking for a second chance — meet as strangers and form a fast friendship as they dream of a bright future in America. But once they arrive in Florida, both must accept not only what they've left behind, but also find a way to form their own identities independent of others' expectations. An exciting world premiere, Mariel explores a little-known story in the history of immigration, dives into the riches of Cuban and Afro-Cuban culture and pulsates with the island's vibrant musical forms, from mambo and bolero to rumba and rock. The production features music by Grammy-nominated composer John Forster and a book by internationally acclaimed storyteller and writer David Gonzalez, and the A.G. and Margaret Lafley Touring Company.
Ezra Escudero, Executive Director of OCHLA (Ohio Commission on Hispanic/Latino Affairs), Tony Simms-Howell, OCHLA Commissioner, Jason Riveiro, President of LULAC Cincinnati, and Michael Beck, Vice President of LULAC Cincinnati, visited recently AMIS (Academy of Multilingual Immersion Studies), where they met with and the school Principle, Sherwin Ealy, and Maria Lang, Program Ficilitator.
Immersion is a method of foreign language instruction in which the regular curriculum is taught in another language. The French and Spanish Language programs offer total immersion and partial immersion programs. In the total immersion program, instruction in the elementary school subjects, including the teaching of reading and writing, is given in French and Spanish in preschool through first grade. In later grades, students receive instruction in English, including reading and language arts. By the time students comlete sixth grade they are functionally proficient in both oral and written French or Spanish.
This year, LULAC Cincinnati will start a "Young Readers Program" at AMIS. The Young Readers program is a highly interactive and family oriented course designed to instill a love of reading in program participants, promote communication skills, writing ability and comprehension levels and build self-esteem.
Congratulations to Gema Bahns, who has been promoted to Officer at Fifth Third Bank. A native of Madrid, Spain, Gema leads the Hispanic Initiatives Program. She is responsible for setting priorities for market competition and leading financial services for the Hispanic market. She works to establish an organizational structure that promotes economic development for Latino clients & minority-owned businesses while increasing Fifth Third Bank's professional business network in the Hispanic community to enhance the bank's profit objectives. She also conducts organizational development workshops aimed at increasing understanding of the Hispanic culture in corporate banking.
In addition to serving in the Executive Board of the National Society of Hispanic MBAs since 2004, she also serves on the Board of Directors for the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Cincinnati USA, a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote the continued growth and development of the Hispanic/Latino business community in the area.


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If we beat the Patriots this weekend. We will win the rest of our games i will guarantee that.Because the rest of the teams are pretty easy, except the Jets all we have to do is put a little bit of pressure on Sanchez and he will do turrible.
The giants could easily lose the rest of their games except against the cowgirls. They will especially lose their next two games one at NO and the other against Green Bay.
The cowgirls could lose 5 of their last 6 games. The only team i see them beating are the Arizona Cardinals i think, hopefully Cardinals beat them but i don't know.
So Philadelphia Eagles will win the NFC East division with a record of 10-6.


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Juventus may be the only team in a top European division to have gone unbeaten so far this season, but that doesn't mean that they're not looking for reinforcements. The Turin club's interest in versatile Uruguay defender Martin Caceres has been an open secret for a long time despite his failure to stick in his first stint with the club, and now Sevilla and Juventus have come to an agreement in a loan-to-buy move for the 24-year-old.
Martin Caceres has travelled today to Turin to undergo a medical in the next few hours with Juventus. If the medical is successful, the player will then proceed to sign the documents to become a player of the Italian club.
The deal is believed to be a season-long loan followed by a €10M option to purchase in the summer. Caceres has made 39 appearances for Sevilla since his €3M buy from Barcelona, scoring twice in La Liga.


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AV Nightclub
1601 N Cahuenga Blvd.
Flavorpill is now a social platform, where you can find not only editor picks but also see what your friends are doing. This site, archive.flavorpill.com, will no longer be updated... Welcome to the future!
This event has passed.
AV Hospitality
Monday Dec 31, 2012 (10pm–7am)
AV Nightclub
1601 N Cahuenga Blvd.
$80 - 100
Still deciding on plans for New Years Eve? Consider spending your memorable night at Hollywood's premiere boutique nightclub. AV Nightclub's exclusive New Years Eve event "From Dusk till Dawn" will feature an open bar, multiple DJ line-up, and after hours! LA-based DJ DiJiTAL will provide the opening tunes for the night, while open-format heavy hitter DJ Sid Vicious will bring in the New Year with his signature club bangers and high-energy style. After hours for this event will feature a lineup of big-name surprise guest DJs providing tunes until sunrise. Tickets for this event can be purchased at nyepartyhollywood.com. For table reservations, please contact firstname.lastname@example.com


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Ohio State recruiting: Kyle Berger ACL tear confirmed
Unfortunate news. ESPN 300 OLB and #OhioState #Buckeyes pledge Kyle Berger just confirmed an ACL tear in his left knee.— Brad Bournival (@bbournival) August 27, 2013
Awful news for the 4-star LB pledge from Cleveland St. Ignatius. Here's wishing him the absolute best in his recovery.


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OAKDALE - A front porch swing catches a lift of breeze and gently sways beyond a white picket fence. A meandering sidewalk, 10 feet off the road, works through bright green grass. The sidewalk connects to a bike path, nature trail and a country river.
It's not old-timey nostalgia or a Hollywood ideal. It's a 320-home mass production subdivision called Burchell Hill.
It is smart growth.
Armed with a strong community vision and a few founding documents, Oakdale has thought "smart" since the mid-1990s. The philosophy helped the self-proclaimed "Cowboy Capital" take top honors in The Modesto Bee's survey of all 60 cities in the San Joaquin Valley.
Oakdale, known for its chocolate festival and annual rodeo, quietly embraced smart growth policies to produce vibrant, attractive neighborhoods with a mix of affordable homes while charging adequate development fees. Other policies protect Oakdale's beloved historic clock tower.
The city also scored highly in areas that may be less visible but still support smart growth concepts, with strong policies regarding jobs, streets, water and sewers. And Oakdale's west end is protected by an agricultural buffer, a rare greenbelt formally acknowledged by Riverbank.
Such forward thinking vaults Oakdale to the top of The Bee's survey of ideals. But the policies have been in place long enough to produce real results.
Drive through Oakdale and you'll see soulless markers of 1970s and '80s drab development common in the valley -- tall subdivision walls, garage-dominated houses, wide treeless streets. But keep moving into the city's newer neighborhoods and things seem to get older, with streets cast in shade trees, garages and alleys hidden behind homes, and walking paths and parks.
The change started in 1993.
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Regular people helped draw up a new general plan, identifying development spheres outside the city limit for possible expansion. Leaders vowed to annex only entire spheres to avoid disconnected, patchwork growth. Developers were told they had to ask permission to start a specific plan process, which entails mapping a big swath of land, sometimes hundreds of acres.
"The biggest challenge to smart growth is the production home builder," said city manager Steve Hallam, who spent seven years as the city's planning chief. "It's hard to get them to pause and realize we don't want our subdivision to look like their other subdivision in Modesto, Riverbank, Turlock or Patterson."
Community weighs in
In 1995, then-Mayor Pat Kuhn started calling town hall meetings. She showed photos from throughout the valley -- the Merced County Courthouse, open fields, huge big-box parking lots and the like. Residents were asked to grade elements from positive to negative 10.
"The very, very highest rated slides were historical buildings, so that made it very easy when we wanted to save the bank building, the First National Bank. We could say the community had voted on it," Kuhn said. "Walking trails and historical buildings were most popular. Sign blight, wide streets and neon signs over the road were simply hated."
The city drafted expectations for home builders. Not guidelines, Hallam quickly points out, but expectations. Building themes, setbacks, street designs and all other accoutrements of a modern urban area are mandatory. Builders essentially self-regulate with checklists.
Unanticipated positive consequences popped up when building slowed on the city's edges. Developers began to look inward, at vacant land within the city.
The average property assessment value in Stanislaus County decreased $122,000 this year. Assessments plunged 19.8 percent in Newman and 8.1 percent in Modesto, but only 5.5 percent in Turlock and 6.7 percent in Oakdale -- two of the valley's high- scoring cities in The Bee's survey.
Oakdale's Burchell Hill shows what smart growth can do for regular people, leaders say. Foreclosures are less common here. Neighbors have a Web site and newsletter and regularly track City Council meetings. Theres an annual neighborhood yard sale, and more home owners groups and associations than anywhere else in Oakdale.
The city once wanted to mark some no-parking curbs in red, but didn't move fast enough for neighbors' liking. So they organized work crews, got the paint from City Hall and did it themselves.
"The community is awesome," said Jennifer Dykes, 39, who walks or rides a bicycle to the grocery store with her husband and their 8-year-old son. They haul a raft to the Stanislaus River on the path's other end.
"We fell in love with the river, the lake, the parks," she continued. "The first time we saw this house, we were instantly in love."
When speeding irritated enough Burchell Hill people, the Police Department trained neighbors on using a radar gun and set them up to record speeds and license plates. The results: The offenders turned out to be primarily Burchell Hill residents. So the homeowners association started a neighborhood campaign to raise awareness and lighten lead feet.
Even as Burchell Hill unfolded, other developers pressed for free-for-all building. The Oakdale City Council was tested sorely when the market superheated about 2002, said Mayor Farrell Jackson, a council member at the time.
"Large developers started advertising and moving forward as if they had a large specific plan, but they didn't have city consent," Jackson said. "They thought they could come in and win over the community. But in Oakdale, the community trusts the city."
One developers Web site proclaimed a vision for 650 acres south of Highway 108 featuring 2,000 homes, man-made lakes and a college satellite campus. The city hadnt seen so much as a blueprint.
It was like getting beat up every day, Kuhn said. If it wasnt in a City Council meeting, it was in your office or on the phone. People would get in your face and scream, Youre costing me money! But these werent people from Oakdale. They thought they could ride out of town with saddle
The key to success, Jackson said, is not folding in hard times.
A subsequent stab at smart growth, on Oakdale's other end, hasn't turned out as well despite more wraparound porches and narrow streets. Bridle Ridge neighbors in recent months have complained that a developer got out of town when the economy soured, leaving behind debris and knee-high weeds instead of promised parkland.
But many remain hopeful that vestiges of Oakdale's smart growth glory days eventually will bring more Burchell Hills.
Policies are helping preserve Oakdale's claim to the best jobs-to-housing ratio and highest sales tax per capita in Stanislaus County, leaders say.
More important to Jennifer Dykes are friendly neighbors, the path to stores and the river, and a lush park just across the street where her husband coaches her son's soccer and Little League teams.
We have great neighbors, everyones friendly, she said. It almost makes me feel like it was as a child.
Bee staff writer Garth Stapley contributed to this report.


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David Letterman
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And the People's Choice for "Favorite Talk Show Host" is… Ellen DeGeneres!|
Wed, 7 Jan 2009|
8 Iconic NYC Landmarks From Movies And Television
next year when he takes over for David Letterman as host of The Late Show . While ..... theater that's been home to David Letterman since 1993 is just one of many classic ..... landmarks have you visited? Tagged: David Letterman , Ghostbusters , How I Met Your
5 Reasons Craig Ferguson Should Not Leave 'The Late Late Show'
you think should replace Craig Ferguson on The Late Late Show ? Tell us in the comments below! Read More: 5 REASONS DAVID LETTERMAN SHOULD NOT RETIRE FROM 'LATE SHOW' 'THE VOICE' CONTESTANTS PICK THEIR DREAM COACH: PHARRELL OR GWEN STEFANI
Neil Patrick Harris Defends The 'How I Met Your Mother' Finale
alternate ending !), but star Neil Patrick Harris is firmly pro-finale. Harris dropped by the Late Show With David Letterman last night to chat about his role in the Broadway show Hedwig and the Angry Inch, but of course the topic of conversation
5 Movies To Watch If You Loved 'Frozen'
Frozen ), then Aladdin is a sure bet. How many of these movies have you seen? Read More: Stephen Colbert To Replace David Letterman On 'Late Show!' 5 Reasons He'll Make The Perfect Host First Look: See Lupita Nyong'o, Kate Mara
Stephen Colbert To Replace David Letterman On 'Late Show!' 5 Reasons He'll Make The Perfect Host
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10 Perfect 'Game Of Thrones' Gifs To Get You Excited For Sunday's Premiere
Credit: http://thumbpress.com Are you excited for the season premiere of Game of Thrones ? Read More: 5 Reasons David Letterman Should NOT Retire From 'Late Show' Justin Bieber And Austin Mahone Might Be Collaborating, Miley Cyrus Mourns
5 Reasons David Letterman Should NOT Retire From 'Late Show'
It's curtain call for David Letterman . The often acerbic but always ..... and almost 6,000 episodes, David Letterman 's unique brand of humor will ..... rethink his retirement: 1. David Letterman Works The Drive-Thru Letterman
Britney Spears-Themed Wedding Speech Goes Viral, Joe Jonas Says He Had It Easier Than Justin Bieber, And More
911 and keeping the group calm until the firemen arrived. [ People ] 5. The studio audience of the Late Show with David Letterman got quite the surprise Wednesday night: a free Lady Gaga concert! The "Applause" singer invited the audience
10 Amazing Photos That Prove Bill Murray Continues To Be Awesome
grand entrance when appearing on The Late Show with David Letterman . Courtesy: Getty Images Alright, so here's the story (which basically ..... Reunion, And More Tagged: Bill Murray , Caddyshack , David Letterman , elvis , Ghostbusters , Golf , Groundhog Day , Jimmi
The Cast and Crew of 'How I Met Your Mother' Keep Fans Updated On the Series Finale
the cast performing the "Top Ten Surprises in the Final Episode of How I Met Your Mother " on The Late Show with David Letterman . How I Met Your Mother returns with an all new episode Monday, February 24th. Read More The Top 5 Musical Performances


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LAKE CHARLES – McNeese football fans can relive the Cowboys' 35-24 Homecoming victory over Stephen F. Austin from last Oct. 27 on Tuesday when Cox Sports Television will rebroadcast the game at 7 p.m.The victory started a string of three consecutive Southland Conference victories to close out the 2012 season.In that game, the Cowboys scored the final 14 points of the contest to pull out the 11-point victory, capped off by a 35-yard touchdown scamper by Marcus Wiltz with 3:00 to play in the fourth quarter.McNeese led 21-14 at the half but fell behind 24-21 late in the third quarter before Kenny Brown scored on a 15-yard touchdown pass from Cody Stroud with 3:05 to play in the quarter to put the Cowboys up for good at 28-24.The Southland Conference matchup is a string of rebroadcasts by Cox Sports Television that airs every Tuesday leading up to the beginning of the season.
320 Division Street
P.O. Box 1490
Lake Charles, LA 70601/70602
Phone: 337-439-9071
Fax: 337-437-7600
FCC Public File
Closed Captioning


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Is it possible that cavities can be contagious? Yes, according to recent research studies conducted by the University of Louisville school of Dentistry. Tooth decay or "dental caries" is the one, common most chronic disease to impact children, and now, new research indicates cavities may be infectious.
Research findings showed mothers with cavities can transmit caries-producing oral bacteria to their infants if they clean their pacifiers by sticking them in their own mouths first, or share utensils with their babies before feeding them.
Findings of the study were posted on Science Daily® in February.
As stated by Liliana Rozo D.D.S, an AAPD board certified pediatric dentist and assistant professor, University of Louisville School of Dentistry, "decay can have a detrimental effect on a child's quality of life, performance in school and success in life. According to Ruzo, it is a common mistake for parents to make because they do not make the connection between oral health and overall health, but they are related. "The mouth is an open door for many microbial infections to enter the bloodstream. Poor oral health may be a risk factor for systemic disease."
Parents are now encouraged to make appointments for their babies with a pediatric dentist as soon as their first teeth erupt through the gums by the The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). This helps parents establish a relationship with their children's dentist, and help familiarize and inform them about proper hygiene, teething, normal tooth development, and trauma prevention.


text: "I have just been hanging out this last couple of days. But I am going to stick to what I said about being as active as I can. So that is it, I am going to try to contact the UFC, get a fight as soon as possible. Luckily I did not get injured so I got no injuries. I can still build off what I built in the last camp. I did not go out, I did not party or anything so that is it."