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Coaches & ConsultantsOverview
Business Coaches and Consultants advising small and medium sized businesses need to be able to quickly assess their clients' business and effectively assist them with sound strategies and solutions. They also need to present their clients with reliable comparisons and benchmarks to support their analysis and to justify their recommendations. With our FINTEL Industry Metrics reports (FIM) or our interactive FINTEL Business Analyzer tool, Coaches and Consultants will be able to achieve their goals.
If you would like to have your logo on the FINTEL outputs provided to your clients, please contact us and we will be happy to discuss all licensing and private labeling options with you.
- Acquire new clients by being able to provide unique benchmarks and valuable tools that other coaches and consultants will not offer
- Feel confident and set yourself apart from others when talking about financials with your client. Being data and number driven will give Consultants using Fintel an advantage even if they have no particular experience in financial analysis and financial benchmarking.
- Present reliable benchmarks from privately held companies operating in over 2,500 industry groups that are not available anywhere else and that will demonstrate the current performance of their client's business
- Help clients understand their company's financial performance and generate "eye-openers"
- Convince clients by presenting them with performance benchmarks that are difficult to dispute
- Convince bankers and insurance agents with arguments using a language that they can understand – numbers
- Use a very effective system to help evaluate a client's business
- Validate analysis results and support arguments with financial intelligence from the client's specific industry
- Present results in a very professional manner without additional effort
- Propose recommendations based on the analytical expertise derived from years of experience and proven successful in many similar cases
FINTEL's products are ideal for evaluating the financial performance of a business and recommending options for improvement.
Select a particular product to view more detailed information.
- FINTEL Industry Metrics reports (FIM)
- Industry financial intelligence covering over 2.500 industry groups and 900,000 privately held businesses
- Industry size breakdown into small, medium-sized and large segments specific to each industry, rather than using fixed size thresholds
- 17 commonly used key financial ratios for each industry
- FINTEL Business Scorecard (FBS)
- Concise and easy to understand snapshot of financial health of a business
- Industry financial benchmarks comparable to the business under analysis (9 ratios)
- Practical suggestions for improving financial performance
- FINTEL Business Analyzer (FBA) Pro
- Easy to understand insights about the financial performance of a business. Analysis of:
- Revenues, gross margin and operating expenses
- Earnings power and profitability
- Cash liquidity position and working capital
- Ability to grow
- Fair market value
- Ability to meet loan payment obligations
- Comprehensive industry financial benchmarks comparable to the business under analysis
- Practical suggestions for improving financial performance
FINTEL also provides different training options for Coaches and Consultants with steep learning curves to enable them to use our tools quickly and efficiently in their business.
Steve Blaney, President
Performance Associates International, LLC
Financial Peer Assessment Benchmark – Competitive Advantage Realized
Performance Associates International, LLC utilizes FINTEL's Business Analyzer to benchmark our firm's current and potential clients' performance. The firm has used the services over the past few years and has been very satisfied with the results and support from FINTEL.
In one particular client engagement, the tool has been instrumental in moving the firm forward. The owner of a 20 employee law firm with annual revenue of about $2 million was frustrated over his firm's financial performance. This included top line growth, profitability, and productivity.
The FINTEL benchmarking analysis put the situation into perspective. Five hundred nine peers averaged a net profit of 6.77%, while our client generated only 5.04% and the top tenth percentile produced 10%. The firm is leaving $34,000 to $150,000 on the table on an annual basis.
Just as importantly, the owner entertained the notion that he could take his book of business to another law firm and make the same amount of money without the headaches and stress. However, FINTEL's valuation of the business and its current performance level predicted the firm was worth $279,000. The owner reflected and stated he would never sell the business for that amount of money; the business was worth much more to him. This renewed his focus and commitment to improving the practice.
Profit centers were implemented, management was decentralized and a pay for performance system is being implemented. Minimal pay increases occurred and the ground rules were set on how to generate and earn more. Productivity and profitability is now measured on a monthly basis for the firm, the profit centers and all employees. Changes towards more entrepreneurial behavior are being noticed.
The FINTEL analysis also pointed out that his collections process were out of alignment with the legal industry. Their Accounts Receivables were $130,000 more than that of their average peer.
The FINTEL analysis provided very valuable insights into the legal industry and helped transition the owner and his employees into moving towards improving the firm's financial performance with the support of Performance Associates International and the FINTEL tools.
"Would like to say I believe your product is outstanding."Larry Heller (Business Coach)
"These are the most effective tools in the market to help my clients evaluate their business."Tom Noteboom (Business Coach)
"Using FINTEL gives me a unique position as a consultant and coach."Bill Foley (Consultant, CPA)
"The Fintel analyses and reports have been instrumental in getting our last three clients to come on board and have brought a level of credibility to our own JumpStart Business Development Business Plan that has astonished us and the people of influence that we have shared it with."Paul L. Cole (President, JumpStart Business Development)
"I was working with a new client who is preparing to launch an auto repair business. It was only our second visit together and I have been helping him draft a business plan and putting together a pro forma budget model for him. I decided to plug the pro forma budget model into FINTEL to see how our assumptions compared to existing auto repair businesses of the same size, and we were both pleased to see that our assumptions were right on as compared to existing businesses of the same size. This made my client feel much more confident that he could indeed move forward with the launch as scheduled and I believe that the FINTEL tool was the "proof in the pudding" that he needed to start feeling like his dream was going to become a reality. Thanks, FINTEL!"Randy Nowell (President, Success Coaching & Business Development)
"I continue to be amazed at the capability of these tools."Paul Cole (Business Coach)
"As a Texas based Small Business Development Center (SBDC) agent I have tried multiple financial tools to help me help my clients in good times and bad. I have used financial benchmarks from RMA, Financial Studies in Small Business, and BizMiner but have come back to the Fintel system for valuation, benchmarking, and for assisting clients to understand the changes needed in their business. The information is easy to read and readily available on the Internet when I need it. With its more complete and accurate database and the prediction tools it makes my work all that more effective!"SBDC Agent, TX
"I sell my clients on the conviction that I can discover and unlock unused potential in their business. FINTEL points me to the "gold mines" and even lets me put a $ number behind it."Bill Stewart (Consultant, CPA)
"FINTEL is a leading provider of quality benchmarking data, which, based on our research, is unrivaled in the breadth and integrity. Combined with innovative and powerful analyses covering the full range of financial performance measures including profitability, liquidity and growth, FINTEL makes an ideal partner for PBCA. Our members are proud to offer this amazing benefit to their coaching clients."John Deagan (President, Professional Business Coaches Alliance)
"I use the scorecard to get my foot in the door with new clients. I can show them where they are at in 10 minutes. And it always gets us talking about the first things needed for improvement."Daniel Lemon (Management Consultant)


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A meet and greet is the first step. Then boarding is at my home for $35.00 a night per dog. For the safety of my pets and guests, all potential boarders must be
. To maintain a home environment I will host a maximum of 4 guests per night. All dogs must be up to date with shots, and be on a flea treatment. I also ask that your dog be house broken and not destroy, chew or dig. Your dog will receive one/two walks a day, socialize with other dogs and be cared for in a loving environment. I will also send you updates by phone. If your dog is a puppy, please call to discuss possible care and fees.
This service requires me to come to your home feed, walk and sleepover to keep your pet company while you are away. This is usually from 5-6pm until 6-8am the next day. Feeding and a walk will be given before I leave. My fees for this service is $60.00 a night.
Dog Walks
: A Private 30 minute walk for one dog =$25.00. A Social 30 minute walk = $20.00. If you desire three or more walks within the same week you will receive a discount rate for each additional walk. A Private 60 minute walk for one dog=$35.00. A Social 60 min. walk = $30.00. If you desire three or more walks within the same week you will receive a discount rate for each additional walk. A social walk includes my chocolate lab!
Dog Play dates
: Are you interested in a play group for your dog? On Thursdays I would like to start a play group of about 3-4 good-natured/dog-friendly, doggies to take to a nearby park or beach. If you live in Huntington beach and are interested, please let me know. I would pickup all dogs, go to play date location, play, water, snack and then return home. Approximate time of play date 1:00 - 3:00, includes travel time. Fee $25.00 per dog/per play date. I ask for at least a months commitment so that dogs have time to get acclimated.
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Preventative Botox: Here's a Strong Case For It
Preventive Botox - should more of us be doing this? I've heard a lot of compelling stories about using Botox as a preventative measure instead of just for treating active wrinkles. There's an older post on this forum that talked about two twins taking place in a study - one received it regularly and one didn't. At the end of the study which took place over several years, allegedly the girl who was not treated developed wrinkles which her sister didn't have.
I have heard similar stories over the past couple years and it makes me tempted to start on Botox right now even without wrinkles. Any experiences to share in using it for prevention? If it truly does work I wonder why Allergan hasn't gotten it FDA approved for that - it would give them an even bigger market.
I am interested in checking these stories out. Makes me wanna do it too lol!
Any links? Thanks! :)
Here's that link about the twins :)
Thanks for the link. Very interesting study. Makes you think ... ;)
You will do better with the prevention of wrinkles by getting a good night's rest, plenty of water and by taking your vitamins on a regular basis. Injecting toxin into your skin is not the answer.
Your advice sounds great, but sometimes we need some extra help from someone other than GNC (health supply/vitamin store) and self care. It depends on how people have treated themselves through their lives, life experiences, as well as genetics. Even if you take super care of yourself, if you have bad genetics it is what it is. You will have to contend with your genes superceding your vitamin regimen, water intake, healthy eating, exercise, adequate sleep, and the like.
Out of curiosity, why would someone with the name "the natural beauty" choose to visit a plastic surgery board? I welcome you and look forward to your response! :)
It it were as simple as drinking plenty of water then plastic surgeons wouldn't be in business. But I am against Botox because I am afraid of it. I think more studies need to be done long term to find if it does anything to us. Everything in our body is connected and common sense just says that if you add poison there is a possibility it could hurt you. I don't care if other people want to take that risk but it is one I don't feel comfortable taking right now.
Openminded post Mr. Z. I like how you stated your opinion, but are not dictating your personal views as rules for others.
I'm not crazy about the idea of Botox either but nothing is a sure bet for safety, so I think we have to draw the line somewhere. To me it appears to probably be safe but I also agree with what you said Mr Z that there could be long term dangers, especially considering that it's a toxin like you said.
I despise when you see the formerly attractive celebs who have either gotten an excessive amount of injectables or had them done too soon, and they look frozen, a la Nicole Kidman. Check out this link: Perez Hilton: Nicole Kidman Is Frozen!
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Want to make your pet's trip to the veterinarian easier on you, your pet and the entire staff of the veterinary hospital? My advice for you is simple: Relax.
Though there are a lot of other things you can do, I find that a change of attitude can have the most dramatic effect. If that surprises you, it shouldn't. Our pets are incredibly attuned to our moods, and if you're acting as if a veterinary visit is a bad thing, your dog or cat is more likely to feel that way, too. A cheerful, optimistic outlook is contagious, not only by animals but also by the folks at the veterinary hospital. Of all the things that can be spread at a medical facility, a positive outlook is the one I hope goes viral. It just makes things so much easier for everyone.
Adopting a more relaxed attitude may be the easiest thing you can do, but it's not the only strategy to help get your pet through a veterinary visit with minimal anxiety. Here are more techniques.
For many pets, especially cats, car trips seem to end poorly (in the pet's opinion). If the only time you got in a car you were going to get a shot or have a stranger poke a thermometer somewhere you'd rather he didn't, you'd have a bad attitude about travel, too. Mix it up. Take your pet for rides he'll enjoy. For dogs, head for a place to hike or to a store where pets are welcome. Though your cat likely won't enjoy visiting, just getting out for a ride with treats and praise can help make him less nervous about future journeys.
Like the car, for many animals a carrier means a trip to the veterinarian because that's the only time they're in one. That's why many pets make themselves scarce the moment the carrier comes up from the basement or down from the garage rafters. Change the script: Make the carrier part of the household furnishings. Though you may not want it as part of your formal living room, make space for it in an area your pet sees daily, such as the laundry room. Pets who are familiar with their carriers are more comfortable in them when it comes time to get on the road.
Synthetic pheromones mimic scents animals create to calm themselves and others. They're available for both dogs and cats, and in many cases they can help calm an anxious pet. Spritz some on the cushion or towel inside the carrier, and spray even more on a towel to put over the carrier. This will turn the carrier into the cat equivalent of a cozy den with the smell of cookies coming from the kitchen.
And speaking of cookies, take treats but make sure your pet is hungry enough to want them. It won't kill your pet to skip the meal before a veterinary visit, but it will make the treats you'll have at the hospital seem even more delicious. Bring on the really yummy, juicy, meaty treats, such as baby-food meat sticks, deli turkey or bonita flakes for cats.
My longtime friend and fellow Vetstreet pet expert Arden Moore gave me this tip, and I love it! If you have more than one pet, take them all in when you visit the vet. Let them all get treats and praise. It will teach them that the vet's office is a fun place to be. Only one gets the "real" veterinary visit, but they all get a good experience. Or if you're a single-pet person, arrange to take your pet into the vet's office for a visit and treats when there's nothing wrong. The results will be the same.
Some pets really need a little more help than a loving owner can provide. If your pet is one of these, ask your veterinarian to prescribe a mild antianxiety medication for your next visit.
Obviously, you'll need to work out the details with your veterinarian before you put some of these strategies into place, but I doubt you'll have any problem doing so. We veterinarians love animals, and we don't like seeing them scared of us. Anything that can change a scaredy cat into a happy pet is something we can get behind — so much so that you shouldn't be at all surprised to see your veterinarian also working to make visits more pleasant for all.
Like this article? Have a point of view to share? Let us know!
Thank you for subscribing to Petwire. Look for the latest newsletter each Wednesday.
Firefighters saved Ashley the Lab from a
fire in her home and resuscitated her
using a pet oxygen mask.
We asked trainer Bill Berloni how he
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debut role as Sandy in the Annie…
Think big dogs are more aggressive? Or
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While it's likely to unleash a feline frenzy,
giving your cat too much of the 'nip is not
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From the water-loving Portuguese Water
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Retriever, these breeds love to have fun.
In his home country of Thailand, the intelligent and attention-loving Korat is a living symbol of luck and prosperity.
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Are you wondering what the file .msstyles in your recently downloaded Windows 7 theme is or do you want to know how to use custom msstyles themes on Windows 7? Get all the information you need after the break.
.Msstyles Themes Content
The .msstyles file is the most important part of a custom theme, it includes most of the elements of the Windows 7 shell. If you want to make custom Windows 7 themes (as we explained recently) you need to get very familiar with msstyles themes files.
Open ResourceHacker and open the msstyles themes file. Right-click on image and say "Extract all resources". You can now see what images are stored in the Msstyles file and you can start making Windows 7 themes.
How to use Msstyles themes on Windows 7?
1. Step Download the UXTheme Patcher
2. Step Extract the Universal Theme Patcher
3. Step Run the patcher and patch your files uxtheme.dll, themeui.dll and themeservice.dll (no worries, you can always restore
IMPORTANT: If you run sfc.exe or a system restore you will have to patch your Windows 7 system files again.
Copy Theme Folder (Including .Msstyles) And .Theme File
4. StepCopy your entire custom Windows 7 theme (this includes more files than just a msstyles file) to C:\Windows\Resources\Themes
Normally you need to copy everything, the theme folder and the .theme file to the Themes folder (C:\Windows\Resources\Themes\)
Tip: If you only have a msstyles file you can try to replace the default aero.msstyles which you can find in C:\Windows\Resources\Themes\Aero – this may or may not work.
Make sure that you do not create a subfolder while extracting the theme. The .theme file needs to be in C:\Windows\Resources\Themes\ and a folder with the same name as the .theme file needs to exist as well. Example:
The msstyles file is typically inside the theme folder, in this example Midnight.
Oliver is the founder and lead editor of this site. He is interested in finding new ways to break Windows, find common errors and help others to fix them. Aside from that, he loves to fully customize systems with Rainmeter and Dreamscene, find out more about ancient civilizations like the Chachapoya, sharpen his digital photography skills and create software with a small group of selected developers. If you would like to connect with him to discuss anything, send him a mail!
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Coupon Database
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
- September 29, 2014 at 1:12 pm
I cannot view the coupons in the coupon database. It does this to me alot. when I get to about the 3rd page, it brings up nothing and all I see is this leave a comment section. I cant even make it through the A's.
Leave a Comment


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So, that is what you said to convince me, although you didn't really have to, you just made me realize that tightly hanging on to a relatively small amount of money just out of principal was ridiculous.
Thanks for the added insight to what you were thinking.
As far as the layout of Lou's homepage, I'm not sure what the package he's using, but I bet my bottom dollar he's using what is commonly referred to as a CMS (Content Management System).
They are beautiful website development tools because you build your look and feel with templates and the more coding skills you have (or at your disposal) the fancier you can make it look.
But the biggest selling point is the ease of deployment of new content. In the old days, you had to code everything from scratch. Now, you can add content with a few clicks and typing into WYSIWYG (What You See is What You Get) editors much like you do to add a post to this forum.
The thing is most web developers know of these tools and embrace them. The downside is that it gets harder to have a unique look. The graphics may be the same, but the layouts start all looking the same with minor variances. This became the norm real quick when web-based blogging sites became popular a few years ago and everyone's blog layouts started looking the same.
I'm sure if you start looking at the sites you frequent most (even outside the World of Disney), you'll start to notice a similiarity to how websites are presented to you.
As far as AllEars.Net goes, they seem to have decided to stay with what has always worked for them. I'm sure there are web developers who view Deb's site that just grind their teeth because her layout is still so early 2000's....haha Or to use another anoying buzzword...AllEars is Web 1.0 while site's like Lou's is more Web 2.0
When it comes to the world of Disney information, there is a lot of competition. Up until now, it has been all about who in the Disney Corporation your favorite podcaster, webmaster, blogger knew. Now, with the advent of D23 (the website) and Disney Twenty-Three (the publication), the source is the publisher.
But the one thing a Disney produced content may never have is the lack of bias. You never know, they may blaze a new trail in company marketing and allow their bloggers and authors speak frankly about stuff, but it hasn't happened to date with very many companies. So, if they do it, it'll be a shocker.
So, as long as the fan sites are allowed to operate, they may not have the easiest access to breaking news and rumors, BUT they will have the benefit of an increased lack of bias to be able to speak more frankly on that which they don't like
I personally like the presence of the fan sites. I once heard a podcaster say they don't accept ad revenue because the people who would be writing the checks worked for companies who makes the products he reviews. So, if he accepts money from them for advertising it creates a perceived bias and the people listening to his review may not trust it beause he may be perceived as being "in their pocket". It also created the expectation that you must speak highly of the product even if you don't like it.
Conversely, another podcaster in the same genre (technology) said he did accept ad revenue but made it very clear to the sponser that even though he's taking their money, if he doesn't like the product he WILL blast it. He reported on one of his podcasts that many advertisers pulled their desire to advertise when told that it wouldn't buy bias.
We the fans who run blogs, podcasts, and website, have the luxery of saying we don't like something. The only price may be availability of access to Disney insiders if someone is constantly too critical
Head Grump
Grumpy's Hollow
So, that is what you said to convince me, although you didn't really have to, you just made me realize that tightly hanging on to a relatively small amount of money just out of principal was ridiculous.
Dreams Really Do Come True
Dreams Really Do Come True
Oh, never mind! No need to answer that Ray, I just read your blog!
Dreams Really Do Come True
We will all differ here. Having a family, with children my mind always lends itself to their well being. I just never do things like spend $16 on a magazine (or spend $75 in a few days at Starbucks ) I'm just not wired that way. For those who want too, no judgement here. Disney I credit.
They, world wide will get people to invest into this, that is for certain.
Funny how much we are all the same in our love of Disney and yet all so different. It makes an entertaining place to spend some time.
Head Grump
Grumpy's Hollow
My wife and I paid off our mortgage in the summer of 2006 due to our frugality. We paid off our 30 year mortgage in 10 years. It can be done if you are responsible with your money.
I would encourage everyone to check out show # 190 of Mouse Guest Weekly to be released Sunday, March 15th. On the show we will talk with Disney Legend Dave Smith, Archives Manager Becky Cline and Head of D23 Steven Clark. I think many concerns and questions Disney fans have will be answered in the interview.
MOUSEGUEST.COM: Mouse Guest Weekly
co-host, Mouse Guest Weekly podcast
One of the biggest unknown factors about D23 is starting to become known -- the "surprise gift" is starting to arrive for first-day members.
If you want to know what it is... check out this post:
"When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you are.
Anything your heart desires will come to you ..."
Author of the DisneyDaddy blog | Writer for Celebrations Magazine
D23 Charter Member | Annual Passholder | Named Disney's Biggest Fan (by Disney and United Vacations)
Mickey Mouse painting a bloody red line on the globe?
That's quite a surprise, alright.
Last edited by elvistelth; 03-26-2009 at 07:27 PM.
I opted out of this magazine, I do admire Disney, it gets five stars for this one and I honestly believe the board will be promoting the mastermind of this endeavor.
I feed off of data. I wish Disney released more of theirs. Wonder how many have joined so far.
Wonder what the actual production cost of the lithograph is per picture, guessing less than a pin would have been.
Wonder how many subscribers purchased that expensive frame to place that lithograph in.
Caching! With the economy taking a nose dive this is the shot in the arm the board will notice.
What is Mickey painting anyways?


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January 9-10-11, 2015
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Exchanging a life of sleeping on peoples floors and malnutrition, for sitting behind a small table peddling his self-published comics, kurt Dinse (pronounced dinz) finally has found his calling. Comics and nerddom have always been a major pat of kurts upbringing, but it was only five short years ago that his creative processor was resurrected in the form of a Mildly Autobiographical mini comic called One Year in Indiana.
A tale of loss, confusion, and a new life on a college campus in the Hoosier State. The stories became so easy to write, draw and publish that he has been continuing to tell his bizarre tales ever since then. His stories of his wacky misadventures the 19th state have been featured by Young American Comics and Fan-Atic Press.
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The Ballard Truck Center Difference
Yes, we have the legendary "Mack Truck" line that trucking companies have relied on for over a century. In addition to Mack Trucks, we also carry the world-class UD Diesel, Hino and Fuso truck lines. In our West Springfield Mass location, we are a Hino and Fuso Dealer and in our newest location, Avon, MA, we are a Volvo dealer as well. What makes Ballard Truck Centers a breed apart is our employees. All our employees share the company philosophy of "fair and reasonable". We will not stop until our customers are completely satisfied. As a matter of fact, our award as 2007 Mack Trucks U.S. Dealer of the Year can largely be attributed to our employees and their belief in this philosophy.
With a combined 60 service bays, 40 factory trained technicians, more than $4 million in parts inventory and 28 factory trained parts experts, Ballard Truck Center can handle any parts or service request that you may have. Not only are we experts at servicing your Mack or smaller trucks, but we are also more than capable of servicing any make or model that you may own.
From our ownership and management, to our sales staff, parts and service departments, we are all committed to making your experience different than what you're used to. With four convenient locations in Worcester, MA, Johnston, RI, Avon, MA and West Springfield, MA, we service all of Rhode Island, eastern Connecticut and central, eastern, & western Massachusetts. We invite you to come experience the Ballard Truck Center difference.
Not all brands are available at all locations
Job OpeningsHelp Wanted! We're looking for experienced sales people, mechanics, and parts staff at many of our locations.
Click here for the full listings
Truck PartsBallard Truck Center has over $4 million in parts inventory and 40 factory trained parts experts to handle all of your parts needs. We deliver legendary service, with years of experience.
Parts Department
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- Green Powerlink Wi-Fi Smart Solution
- The Green PowerLink Wi-Fi Smart Solution provides a system approach to monitoring,
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- With Green PowerLink Energy Saving Solution, you can relax and enjoy the wireless freedom of tracking the electricity cost and consumption at home...
- Green Powerlink Essential
- The first thing you can do to save energy at home is to start understanding and measuring how much energy each home appliance uses.
- Energy Management System
- Residential Power Management


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Drainfield Company
Need a Drainfield Contractor? Free estimates! (954) 763-4999
A-Alligator has been installing drainfields for over 20 years. We are a state licensed septic tank contractor. We have installed thousands of drainfields over the last 20 years. We will be able to diagnose and solve any septic system issue or drainfield issue you are having. We offer free drainfield estimates.
A-Alligator has been doing drainfields for 20 years. The same drainfield crew has been with us since 1990. We do not use sub-contractors. A-Alligator is capable of installing any system that is required.
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Optics InfoBase
> Virtual Journal for Biomedical Optics
Generation of multiple sheets of light using spatial-filtering technique
Handheld photoacoustic microscopy to detect melanoma depth in vivo
Spectral x-ray phase contrast imaging for single-shot retrieval of absorption, phase, and differential-phase imagery
All-fiber wavelength swept ring laser based on Fabry-Perot filter for optical frequency domain imaging
Autofocus using adaptive prediction approximation combined search for the fluorescence microscope in second-generation DNA sequencing system
Emulated laser-acupuncture system
Design and analysis of wearable pupillometer for autonomic neuropathy of diabetic patients
System for the optical diagnosis of tumors, and using it to identify pituitary adenoma
Determination of reference values for optical properties of liquid phantoms based on Intralipid and India ink
Integrated photoacoustic, ultrasound and fluorescence platform for diagnostic medical imaging-proof of concept study with a tissue mimicking phantom
Bone tissue phantoms for optical flowmeters at large interoptode spacing generated by 3D-stereolithography
Single camera imaging system for color and near-infrared fluorescence image guided surgery
Spatial sensitivity and penetration depth of three cerebral oxygenation monitors
A high-efficiency fiber-based imaging system for co-registered autofluorescence and optical coherence tomography
Time-resolved fluorescence lifetime for cutaneous melanoma detection
Raman difference spectroscopy: a non-invasive method for identification of oral squamous cell carcinoma
A new broadband near-infrared spectroscopy system for in-vivo measurements of cerebral cytochrome-c-oxidase changes in neonatal brain injury
Generating and measuring photochemical changes inside the brain using optical fibers: exploring stroke
Miniature objective lens with variable focus for confocal endomicroscopy
Deep brain light stimulation effects on glutamate and dopamine concentration
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text:
Hear the Call
Hearing the Call Show Live June 4 at 7:30pm
Thursday, May 29 at 4:46 PM
Curtis and Melissa will discuss his trip to Africa in a live show on Wednesday, June 4 at 7:30pm
Rewatch Curtis Smith's Journey To Zambia For Hearing The Call (VIDEO)
Finding it in your heart to help?
Find out how you can help with the Fountain of Life initiative founded by Princess Zulu or Hearcare Connections founded by Nora Stewart.
Defining The Trip
HearCare Connection founder, Nora Stewart, was introduced to Princess Zulu by a local pastor and through that clandestine meeting partnered with Chief Meteorologist Curtis Smith to bring you Hearing The Call.
Pictures From Africa
See stunning images and photos from Curtis Smith's mission trip to Africa.
MBN Properties Gives Back
MBN helping Hearcare Connections and Zambia
We are more alike than you think.
The bright-burning sun, foreign spices and sprawling landscapes all tell you that you are a world away from home. But mingled in the culture, interwoven in traditions, beats the heart of humanity.
Wednesday, May 14
Running water and working bathrooms for a maternity ward as well as meeting Chief Liteta.
Tuesday, May 13
From medical help to education, the people in Zambia overcome many circumstances to better themselves.
Monday May 12 in Zambia
The Fort Wayne team serves dozens in makeshift clinics.


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Famke Janssen
How about an active and modern Siren this time around? First of all, let's ask ourselves if there is some brave souls working today that can claim to do honor to many of our older guests that were at the top in past decades. Of course, we could name some silicone puppet or any starlet in lousy teen horror flicks, but I'm talking about someone who could become the next Barbara Steele. Ah! The list of nominees is pretty scarce, needless to say, but if I name here Famke Janssen, I don't think it's much of an exaggeration. She can easily play the victim or the aggressor (with an apparent taste for the latter), with an always welcome bitchy side.
Famke was born on November 5, 1964, in Amsterdam, Holland. Her surname means "little girl", which is curious for an 5'11" person! She has two sisters, Natalya and Lucy. She began a modeling career while still fairly young, with instant success, for the Elite agency. After coming to her legal age, she moved to New York in 1984 to enroll in Columbia University, where she studied literature and took a writing course. Dramatic arts were also on the menu. It's in California that she would get her start as an actress.
In 1992, she made her movie debut for Fathers and Sons, a family drama with emphasis on (surprise) father and son relationships, starring Jeff Goldblum. Famke could soon be seen in an episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation entitled The Perfect Mate where she sparked a twinkle in Picard's eye, as she played a shape shifter. She would also be part in the television series The Untouchables and Melrose Place.
Soon after, Famke was cast as a female super hero for the TV movie Model By Day, directed by Christian Duguay and shot in Toronto. This could be considered a modest beginning for our future Cult Siren, as the film is not that successful (but remains prophetic as Famke would play a more established right-doer in the future for X-Men), which nixed its chance of becoming a regular series. She played Lady X, acrobatic vigilante by night and... model by day. If Famke displays the required physical attributes (even with a weird costume and unattractive head wear), the script remains juvenile. A potential future Siren, Shannon Tweed, co-starred as Shannon (who comes up with these original names?).
In 1994, Famke was part of the cast in the fourth chapter of the Relentless series, Relentless IV: Ashes to Ashes. The script is basically always the same for any of its chapters: a detective runs around trying to catch a serial killer. And that's it. But it's in 1995 that Famke enjoyed an important year which resulted in increased public popularity. First, she could be seen in Lord of Illusions directed by Clive Barker, an horror picture that got mixed reviews but that still tried to propose a more mature story than the soon to be (re)popular teens-in-peril formula. Of course, a more complex script doesn't always means box office success... bah! Famke played a passive but pivotal role, that of Dorothea Swann, the widow (?) of a mysterious magician who died during an elaborate stage show. The film's lack of support resulted in Barker's reluctance of pursuing a series starring Harry D'Amour, occult detective and the hero of this picture, which is a shame. On a more personal and useless note, my first article for the web was a review of this production! Look where I am today... and beware when I'll finally create my race of mindless supermen... instant world domination... beware!
But it's with GoldenEye, a James Bond adventure, that Famke finally got recognized as a major player with the public and with just cause: she portrayed a murderous femme fatale (employed by the Russian Mafia) deliciously named Zenia Zaragevna Onatopp, assassin with the specialty to choke anyone between her silky super thighs! And she likes to kill, reaching a quasi-orgasmic state each time she wipes out some (un?)fortunate soul. Famke can easily be considered one of the best modern Bond Girl, as she was one hell of a challenge for Pierce Brosnan in his first Bond film. She also seemed like she was having the time of her life. The MTV Movie Awards nominated them both for Best Fight Scene! Famke's presence resulted in sweet nostalgia towards classic Bond Girls, often larger than life and full of surprises. So, that was a series' high point, and we can relish in the fact that Famke's was not victim of the "Bond curse" where too often an actress is forgotten or doomed to work in mediocre projects after participating in a 007 movie.
An unglamorous role was next for City of Industry, alongside the fabulous Harvey Keitel, a quite interesting little thriller. In 1998, a total a seven movies featuring Famke got to theaters, weren't we lucky souls? Deep Rising united Famke (as a charming pickpocket) and some kind of giant and cranky computer octopus running havoc on a luxury liner. Diverting in a B-movie kind of way, but no classic. Equally disappointing was The Faculty, again with mildly diverting results, as we expected more from director Robert Rodriguez. Amusingly, two great screen beauties, Famke and Salma Hayek, both played mousy roles. On the whole, the movie looks too much like a dumb Scooby-Doo episode. Another small but memorable part was for Rounders where, at some point, Famke's character offers Matt Damon to stay the night... and the jackass refuses! She was also in the cast for Woody Allen's Celebrity, among many known and high profile players.
Fall 1999 offered us Famke in a remake of William Castle's House on Haunted Hill. William Malone was the director, filming a modern and colorful retelling of the 1958 classic starring Vincent Price, with the story focusing on strangers accepting a bet to stay a full night in a mysterious house for a large sum of money. Famke played the bitchy wife of the eccentric owner of this former insane asylum and mastermind of this diabolic pact, played by Geoffrey Rush. Once again, the MTV Movie Awards didn't forget her, this time for Best Supporting Actress. A low-budget movie named Love & Sex was presented at the Sundance Film Festival, starring Famke and Jon Favreau. She portrayed a journalist having thoughts on a former flame when she writes a magazine article on oral sex.
But 2000 remains important for a high-profile project that drove nuts millions of fans (especially on the web): Bryan Singer's cinematographic adaptation of the most popular comic book in the world, X-Men. I was one of the first surprised to learn that Famke was cast as the powerful telepath Jean Grey, as we could've more expected to see her playing a villain. But she proved to be up to the challenge, having the chance to display more character motivation than cast member Halle Berry for the character of Storm. The two were soon back for the sequel X2, which proved to be a Cult Sirens fan's paradise, as we could admire Famke, Halle, Kelly Hu, Anna Paquin and Rebecca Romjin-Stamos on the big screen... Then of course, the fate of Jean Grey was unveiled to the world in X-Men: The Last Stand in 2006.
Hey, I've got a most sacrilegious cinematic fantasy: a new version of Mario Bava's Black Sunday, with Famke in the dual roles that Barbara Steele so adequately portrayed in this classic horror film. No? Well, I just hope that she will pursue her career without any lags, continuing to be a presence in many fantasy and horror films. Truth be told, I would have no problem in keeping an eye on the subject, if you know what I mean...


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Just when it looked like Matt Kuchar might blow another Sunday lead, he finally closed one out in style, holing a bunker shot for birdie on the 18th hole to cap a 64 and what turned out to be a one-stroke victory at the RBC Heritage.
"I told my caddie before that last shot, 'I'm about due to make one of these,'" Kuchar said."I knew it was at least an easy par. Bunker game is good. No problem.
"I went up and took a good read, knew it would release and break right to left, played it just right of the hole, watched it roll. I heard the crowd go crazy when the thing disappeared. I went crazy myself. It was just an incredible feeling."
And an incredible ending, especially considering a few minutes earlier Kuchar inexplicably three-putted from four feet for bogey on the par-3 17th.
Instead of his extending his lead, Kuchar, who had started the day four back of Luke Donald but passed him with a front-nine 30, dropped into a tie with the Englishman.
"A little bit of shock," Kuchar said of his reaction to the bogey."But I think I do a really good job of shaking things off."
The 47th RBC Heritage will take place April 13-19, 2015 at the Harbour Town Golf Links on Hilton Head Island. Make plans now to "Get Your Plaid On!"
Keep informed with the latest news and events surrounding the RBC Heritage.
A charity beneficiary of the RBC Heritage, is the 2013 PGA TOUR Charity of the Year.


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The Response Card NXT clicker by Turning Technologies will be used in class this semester. It's the same clicker that you'll use in many other courses at UNCC. It's the standard for our campus.
You will need to have your own clicker. You may not share a clicker with someone in the same class or with someone in my other classes. Your points will be impossible to retrieve.
You will need the clicker on day one!
The clickers are available at both UNCC bookstore and Gray's. I've found the clicker on eBay and Amazon. If you decide to get one there, be sure you'll get it in time for the first day of class.
Gray's and the UNCC bookstore have these clickers as rentals. These might be great for visiting students, but regular 49ers might as well bite the bullet and get the right one now because you're going to get a lot of use out of it in future classes.
If you purchase a clicker somewhere besides the UNCC bookstore or Gray's, make sure you get the right one. Be sure you search for this exact product name: Response Card NXT clicker by Turning Technologies. There are a couple of older models. Make sure you don't get one of those. Yours should look exactly like the picture at the top of this page. The bookstores will give you the right one.
The ISBN that I've been given for the clicker is 9781934931455.


text:
Merck Announces Third-Quarter 2012 Financial Results
ISENTRESS, an HIV integrase inhibitor for use in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection, grew 16 percent to $399 million in the third quarter driven by strong growth in the United States and the emerging markets.
Global sales of Merck's antihypertensive medicines COZAAR and HYZAAR were down 27 percent to $295 million in the third quarter of 2012 due to the loss of market exclusivity in the United States and major European markets in 2010.
Sales of ZOSTAVAX, a vaccine for the prevention of herpes zoster, grew 87 percent to $202 million in the quarter. Growth this quarter was due to a positive response to supply availability and increased promotional efforts in the United States.
Sales of VICTRELIS, the company's oral hepatitis C virus NS3/4A protease inhibitor, grew to $149 million in the quarter versus $31 million last year as the product continues to launch. VICTRELIS is approved in 64 countries and has launched in 31 of those markets.Animal Health Revenue Performance Animal Health sales totaled $815 million for the third quarter of 2012, a 1 percent decrease compared with the third quarter of 2011, which includes an 8 percent negative impact due to foreign exchange. Excluding the negative impact of foreign exchange, performance was driven by the cattle, poultry and companion animal segments. The Animal Health division launched the ACTIVYL line of products in the United States, which is an important addition to the companion animal product line. Consumer Care Revenue Performance Third-quarter global sales of Consumer Care were $451 million, an increase of 7 percent compared to the third quarter of 2011, including a 3 percent negative impact due to foreign exchange. The increase was primarily driven by the DR. SCHOLL'S footcare line and COPPERTONE suncare line. Other Revenue Performance Other revenues – primarily comprised of alliance revenue, miscellaneous corporate revenues and third-party manufacturing sales – declined 17 percent to $347 million. The change was driven largely by lower revenue from AstraZeneca LP (AZLP) recorded by Merck, which declined 15 percent to $255 million, as well as by lower third-party manufacturing sales.
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text:
Thursday, 24 Oct 2013 09:48 AM
By Newsmax Wires
© 2014 Newsmax. All rights reserved.
Monday, 22 Dec 2014 16:21 PM
Oakland Raider Menelik Watson has donated his whole paycheck for one week to bring a 4-year-old girl with a heart proble . . .
Monday, 22 Dec 2014 15:40 PM
Prince George visited Santa's Magical Journey near his home, meeting Santa on a surprise visit that included both of his . . .
Monday, 22 Dec 2014 15:10 PM
Tara Palmer-Tompkinson, Prince Charles' goddaughter, was arrested Saturday at Heathrow Airport after she reportedly thre . . .
Newsmax, Moneynews, Newsmax Health, and Independent. American. are registered trademarks of Newsmax Media, Inc. Newsmax TV, and Newsmax World are trademarks of Newsmax Media, Inc.


text:
Who we are & what do we do?
Aboriginal Australia Online is a dream, a project started way back in 2001 by a young indigenous entrepreneur Kane nelson, many years of out of pocket attempts to pass his message and a long wait later aboriginal australia online was born into an "gold coin donation" supported project with a vision, vision to bring the future of online websites plus services to aboriginal australian people, community and businesses.
The problem the founder saw was indigenous australians had many fantastic ideas, yet everyone sought external development of their websites to outside service providers and web designers. Why do all of our people seek others to build their websites for them? Why can't i show them how to do it? and do it as well if not better than they are paying for?
Why are we different?
We at aboriginal australia online are different, we really want to give you the knowledge to build your own web services, websites. We are not here to simply take fortune from our people, we can and will provide you with services and training that will be invaluable to your business, community, organization and especially our youth!
By investing a simple $1 a day, you'll set the standard for those to come. Your investing in the future, the web is the future and we are going to help you engage it.
Can we help or support you?
I'm sure we can, if you own a business, community, organisation, land council or even a simple personal blog we have a revolutionary aboriginal people powered network that builds and manages your website all in the one place online, anytime, anywhere.
Its ready to go, updates your pages within the minute and available to you 24hrs a day 7 days a week!


text:
Pokemon Nightmare Jet
All Nippon Airways have announced one of their 747-400 passenger planes will be sporting custom Pokemon livery, featuring Pikachu and a number of other Pocket Monsters, in what qualifies as an exceedingly rare ita-jet.
All Nippon Airways have announced one of their 747-400 passenger planes will be sporting custom Pokemon livery, featuring Pikachu and a number of other Pocket Monsters, in what qualifies as an exceedingly rare ita-jet.
A mangaka has been arrested after he groped a schoolgirl's breasts on a bus.
A lady teacher who instructed one of her pupils "numerous" times in the finer and more intimate points of love hotel usage has been sacked for her extra-curricular aid, we hear.
An elementary school teacher (31) who sought to make his elementary school students "understand death" by graphically illustrating "death" to them by cutting himself repeatedly with a blade, and ensuring they saw the whole bloody act, traumatising them severely in the process, has been subject to a temporary pay cut.
Losing sleep over the sight of a little blood? Pussy.... More
This is absolutely terrible. It's shocking and deranged. This woman updates here blog during working hours and she ONLY gets a four month suspension? No wonder society is going down the shitter.... More
In a ruling possibly of crucial importance to Japan's camera maniacs, a judge has ruled that taking lewd photos of ladies on the street is an offence whether it involves pointing a camera up their skirts or simply at their posterior, even when wearing tousers.
A man (38) who engaged in indecent acts with a 13-year-old middle-schooler in a department store toilet, for the bargain price of ¥3,000, has been arrested.
As part of an initiative to reinvigorate the local economy, the Hokkaido government is set to establish special areas where cannabis can be grown freely, so as to put fallow fields to work and reduce the need to import.
A 12-year-old girl camping in the Hokkaido countryside got a rude awakening when a bear attacked her tent, though she soon beat it off and put it to flight with a good kick.
When I first read the title, I thought it was something else... "Bear beaten off by 12-year-old girl." Sounds like some new furry stuff or something. Time to lay off the hooch.... More
No loli for pedobear that day.... More
A female teacher (28) who had sexual relations with a male pupil (14), has been subjected to disciplinary dismissal from the middle school where she taught. The unfortunate pair somehow managed to get exposed when they visited a hotel for some distinctly private tutelage.
The problem is that while we got more conservative on the edge of letting someone enter a relationship with another, we show them (through all this damn porn and perverted sh!t) that intercourse doesn't have... More
If it mutual why make all that ruckus?! As I see it, "child protection laws" are nothing but an instrument to control the sexuality of children. Of course you have to protect them from forced sex, but... More
A 75 year old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempting to coerce a housewife (21) into performing indecent acts – it seems he was her landlord, and her lent her hundreds of dollars to cover her living expenses, with the proviso, written into a contract, that she offer up her body in place of the money should she fail to make the repayment schedule.
When she failed to make the repayments (you can see where this is going) he apparently parked his car in a warehouse with him and the woman in it, leering at her "can you uphold the contract?". He then tried feeling the woman up, at which point she resisted vigorously.
These people have been watching too many TV dramas – I was surprised to hear that the wicked old landlord didn't try to strip her of her kimono by pulling on her obi, as they do in the old films; the whole situation strikes me as rather hackneyed, though at least amusingly so.
That doesn't matter. There are some things you're not allowed to add as clauses in a contract, so even if she signed the contract it would still be void.... More
I don't see how it should be void. If she signed the contract knowing what it contained then she more or less agreed on selling her body for a certain amount of money/items.... More


text:
- Ex-NFL's Benson Charged With Public Intoxication
- Joe Cocker Dies At 70
- Texas Theater Cancels Showing Of 'Team America'
- Bettie's Box Office-The Hobbit:The Battle Of The Five Armies
- Sony Cancels 'The Interview' Dec. 25 Release
- Sony Hackers Make Ominous Threats
- Armadillo Christmas Bazaar Starts Tuesday
- Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer Marks 50 Years
- Anything Goes Sails Into Austin!
- Austin Musician Ian McLagan, 69, Dies
- Woman Sues Bill Cosby, Claiming Underage Abuse
- Bill Cosby Interview Clips Released
- Hunger Games Director Talks to KEYE TV About Mockingjay Part 1
- Austin Festivalgoer Captures Video Of Meteor Falling
- Review: Interstellar
- AC/DC Drummer Accused Of Trying To Procure Murder
- Bettie's Box Office: Big Hero 6 Review
- Dirty Dancing Hits Broadway In Austin
- Review: Nightcrawler
- Bettie's Box Office: Nightcrawler Review
- Scalping Not Illegal in Austin, But Not Without Risks
- Stevie Ray Vaughan Among Rock Hall Nominees
- Bettie's Box Office: The Judge Review
- '7th Heaven' Actor Accused Of Child Molestation
- Bettie's Box Office: The Good Lie Review
- Fantastic Fest: The Guest
- Beauty and The Beast
- Clooney Marries Human Rights Lawyer In Venice
- Bettie's Box Office: The Equalizer Review
- Carrie Underwood Announces Pregnancy
- Bettie's Box Office: The November Man Review
- Joan Rivers Rushed To Hospital After Complications During Surgery
- UT's Gone to Texas Celebration is Tonight
- Stephen King Book Tour Hits Austin On Nov. 15
- Review: Sin City: A Dame To Kill For
- Bettie's Box Office: If I Stay Movie Review
- Film Community Has Been Challenged
- Local Artist Pays Homage To Robin Williams
- Review: The Expendables 3
- Sheriff: Robin Williams Found With Belt On Neck
- Comedian Robin Williams Dead In Apparent Suicide
- Bettie's Box Office: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Review
- Review: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
- Review: Guardians of the Galaxy
- RFK Jr., Actress Hines Wed at Kennedy Compound
- Bettie's Box Office: Get On Up Review
- Bettie's Box Office: Guardians of the Galaxy Review
- Contract Dispute Delays 'Big Bang' Production
- Comic Book Of Superman First Appearance Sells For $2M
- Review: Wish I Was Here
- Scare for a Cure Kick-Off Party on Sunday
- Police: Movie, TV Legend James Garner Dies
- Bettie's Box Office: Boyhood Review
- Review: Boyhood
- Natural Epicurean Spices Up Summer with Simple Veggie Recipes
- Bettie's Box Office: Dawn of the Planet of the Apes Review
- Oklahoma! Musical Starts Friday at Zilker Theatre
- Bettie's Box Office: Earth To Echo Review
- COTA To Host Austin July 4th Fireworks Show
- First 4D Theater Comes To US
- Police: Shia LaBeouf Removed From Broadway Theater
- Bettie's Box Office: Jersey Boys Review
- KEYE TV Announces New Lifestyle Show 'We Are Austin'
- IN Drive-In Theater Thriving In Digital Age
- Radio Legend Casey Kasem Dies Sunday Morning
- Bettie's Box Office: 22 Jump Street Review
- 911 Calls Released In Tracy Morgan Limo Crash
- Bettie's Box Office: Edge Of Tomorrow
- ATX Television Fest Honors Henry Winkler
- ATX Television Fest Has Single Ticketing
- Lady Bird Lake July 4th Celebrations Moving To COTA
- Blues On The Green Returns This Week
- Austin Street Closures Announced For X Games
- Happy Birthday: 87-Year-Old Ohio Man Finds His Calling
- Music Commission Floats Idea For Danzig Statue
- 'Brady Bunch' Actress Ann B. Davis Dies In Texas
- New Broadway Musical Inspired by Rapper Tupac Shakur
- Austin Prepares For X Games
- New Anti-Gay Remarks By 'Duck Dynasty' Star Emerge
- Filming Begins In Detroit For Superman-Batman Film
- Bettie's Box Office: Godzilla Review
- Alec Baldwin Arrested In NYC After Bike Flap
- Bettie's Box Office: War Horse On Stage Review
- War Horse Premieres At Bass Concert Hall
- Blues On The Green Lineup Announced
- Bettie's Box Office: The Amazing Spiderman 2 Review
- War Horse Ends Broadway Season In Austin
- Fur And Film Fest In South Austin
- Bettie's Box Office: The Other Woman Review
- Off-Centered Film Festival with The Lonely Island
- Eminem, Outkast To Headline Austin City Limits
- De Niro Says He'll Donate Oscars To Austin's Ransom Center
- Bettie's Box Office:Draft Day Review
- Stephen Colbert To Host "The Late Show"
- Paramount Theatre Could Get New Sign
- Peaches Geldof Dies At Age 25
- Bettie's Box Office: Captain America:The Winter Soldier Review
- Little Girl Sings Pain Away
- Review: Divergent
- I Heart Radio Country Music Festival Debuts In Austin
- Character Actor James Rebhorn Dies At 65
- St. Patrick's Day Outdoor Festival
- SXSW Film Winners
- Bettie's Box Office: Divergent Review
- Austin's Best Rock Band Quiet Company on SXSW
- "Only Lovers Left Alive"
- Cesar Chavez Movie Premieres at SXSW
- "Jimi: All Is By My Side"
- Austin Band Driver Friendly Plays SXSW
- "Among The Living" at SXSW
- 3-Year Theory: Big Renewal Deal For 'Big Bang'
- "The Grand Budapest Hotel"
- Cesar Chavez
- "Obvious Child"
- "Supermensch: The Legend of Shep Gordon"
- Lena Dunham To Keynote SXSW Film Today
- SXSW Accelerator Awards
- Why You Should Care About SXSW
- "Neighbors"
- SXSW Turns Downtown into Art Project
- "13 Sins" Reals You In
- 'Bad Words' at SXSW
- "Chef" Cooks Up Something Great
- SXSW Without A Badge
- Texas Film Awards Kicks Off SXSW
- Edward Snowden To Speak At SXSW
- Hollywood Comes To Austin For SXSW
- Idle Cars Become Moneymakers For SXSW
- Cold Weather Won't Stop Mardi Gras Revelers
- Ken & Bettie Predict The Oscars
- Bettie's Box Office:Wicked Review
- "Wicked" Arrives In Austin
- SXSW Gaming Awards Voting Ends Friday
- AFS has The Big Shootout Screening
- Review: Endless Love
- TV Reporter Confused Samuel L. Jackson With Laurence Fishburne
- Shirley Temple Dies At 85
- WICKED Comes to Austin
- Bettie's Box Office:The Monuments Men Review
- AP Sources: Hoffman Found Dead With Syringe In Arm
- Bettie's Box Office:Jack Ryan Shadow Recruit Review
- Pop star Justin Bieber Arrested In Miami Area
- One-On-One With Anjelah Johnson
- Bettie's Box Office: Lone Survivor Review
- Austin Broadcasting Legend Larry Monroe Dies
- Russell Johnson, 'Gilligan' Professor, Has Died
- 'Hustle,' 'Gravity' Lead Oscars With 10 Nods Each
- Bettie's Box Office: American Idiot Musical Review
- WikiLeaks Founder To Speak At SXSW Interactive
- Caged: 30 Years of Nic!
- Carnaval Austin Celebrates 37 Years
- Bettie's Box Office: Her Movie Review
- American Idiot on Broadway in Austin
- Insane Clown Posse Sues Feds Over Gang Label
- A&E Reverses Decision On 'Duck Dynasty' Patriarch
- Review: American Hustle
- Bettie's Box Office: Saving Mr. Banks Review
- 'Duck Dynasty' patriarch hears from supporters
- Country Singer Ray Price Dead At 87
- Bettie's Box Office: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
- New Heights With Blue Lapis Light
- Memphis the Musical
- Review: Homefront
- Review: Disney's FROZEN
- Bettie's Box Office:Nebraska Movie Review
- 'Catching Fire' Ablaze With $135M At Box Office
- Brooklyn Man Finds Emmy In The Trash
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Austin Red Carpet Rolls Out For Texas Stars
Updated: Thursday, March 7 2013, 05:13 PM CST
The red carpet is being rolled out in Austin Thursday night. The Texas Film Hall of Fame Awards is a star-studded benefit honoring Texans who've made significant contributions in the movie business.
The Austin Film Society is celebrating its 13th annual Hall of Fame Awards at Austin Studios by honoring a legendary group of Texan artists in film and television. This year's honorees include Academy, Golden Globe, Gotham, Spirit and Emmy Award-nominated actors.
The 2013 inductees to the Hall of Fame include actors Annette O'Toole, Henry Thomas, Stephen Tobolowsky and Robin Wright, and the film DAZED AND CONFUSED.
Celebrities expected to walk the red carpet include Quentin Tarantino, Robin Wright, Henry Thomas, Rob Reiner, Sissy Spacek, Annette O'Toole, Stephen Tobolowsky, Richard Linklater, Jack Fisk, Michael McKean, Dana Wheeler-Nicholson, Julie Hagerty, and Robert Rodriguez.
The Texas Film Hall of Fame is the state's premier celebration of film and television. One hundred percent of the evening's proceeds benefit the Austin Film Society's filmmaking grants and educational programs, which discover and fund emerging talent throughout the state of Texas, often launching significant careers in the arts.
2013 Texas Film Hall of Fame honorees -
Dazed and Confused
The 1993 Austin-made film DAZED AND CONFUSED will be inducted into the Hall of Fame on the occasion of its 20th Anniversary. Parker Posey and director Richard Linklater will attend the celebration joined by other members of the original cast.
Annette O'Toole
Born in Houston, Annette O'Toole is best known for her lead role in "Smallville," the longest running sci-fi series ever on American television. Her career spans many television appearances as well as theater and film. She has been in a number of critically acclaimed plays, recently including "Southern Comfort," on Broadway and Playwright's Horizon work "Kindness." O'Toole has many memorable lead roles in beloved films, such as 48 HOURS with Nick Nolte and Eddie Murphy, Paul Schrader's CAT PEOPLE, Stephen King's IT and SUPERMAN III. Annette was nominated for an Emmy for her role in THE KENNEDYS OF MASSACHUSSETS, and an Academy Award for Best Song along with her husband Michael McKean. The song, "A Kiss At the End of the Rainbow" appeared in the Christopher Guest film, A MIGHTY WIND.
Henry Thomas
Born in San Antonio, Henry Thomas is often remembered for his outstanding performance as Elliott in Steven Spielberg's E.T. THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL, for which he earned a Golden Globe and BAFTA nomination in 1982. Thomas has an extensive and diverse list of film and television credits throughout his career and will next appear across Kate Bosworth, Stana Katic and Josh Lucas in BIG SUR, director Michael Polish's film adaptation of Jack Kerouac's book. BIG SUR will premiere at this month's Sundance Film Festival. Recently, Thomas starred in Lasse Hallstrom's feature film DEAR JOHN opposite Channing Tatum and Amanda Seyfried. Other starring roles include Martin Scorsese's GANGS OF NEW YORK, Billy Bob Thornton's ALL THE PRETTY HORSES, Ed Zwick's LEGENDS OF THE FALL and Milos Forman's VALMONT. He has also guest starred in television shows "Without A Trace," "CSI," and "The Mentalist." His film debut was opposite Sissy Spacek and Eric Roberts in 1981 in Universal's RAGGEDY MAN. In addition to acting, Thomas wrote songs, sang, and played guitar for the San Antonio, Texas, band The Blue Heelers from the mid to late '90s.
Stephen Tobolowsky
Stephen Tobolowsky is the quintessential character actor, has appeared in more than 100 movies and more than 200 television shows. USA Today recently noted that he was the ninth most frequently seen actor in film today. His roles span virtually the entire spectrum of a working actor's career, from the big-budget and Oscar-worthy (as head of the Ku Klux Klan in MISSISSIPPI BURNING), to the cult phenomenon (GROUNDHOG DAY), to the buzzworthy ("Heroes," "Deadwood," "Californication," and "Glee"). He wrote and performed in the film STEPHEN TOBOLOWSKY'S BIRTHDAY PARTY and wrote TRUE STORIES with David Byrne and Beth Henley. But despite a lifetime of devotion to the craft of acting that also includes classical theater training at SMU and the University of Illinois, as well as a Tony nomination for his work on Broadway, he insists you probably wouldn't recognize him if you saw him on the street. He currently performs his stories on "The Tobolowsky Files" at Slashfilm.com and on iTunes. They are also broadcast weekly on radio in Seattle, Louisville, and Austin. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and two sons, and was born and raised in Dallas.
Robin Wright
Photo by Georges Biard
Robin Wright, born in Dallas, continues to make an indelible mark in Hollywood. She will next be seen in David Fincher's highly anticipated series HOUSE OF CARDS alongside Kevin Spacey. Most recently she completed filming A MOST WANTED MAN with Phillip Seymour Hoffman. TWO MOTHERS, in which she co-stars with Naomi Watts, will premiere at this month's Sundance Film Festival. She played journalist Erika Berger in David Fincher's highly acclaimed THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO, and will continue her role in the remaining two parts of the trilogy. Wright has received critical acclaim for a number of recent roles, including Robert Redford's THE CONSPIRATOR, Oren Moverman's RAMPART, and Rebecca Miller's THE PRIVATE LIVES OF PIPPA LEE. Award nominations include a Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild for her unforgettable role as 'Jenny' in Robert Zemeckis' Best Picture Oscar winner, FORREST GUMP, and additional SAG nominations for Nick Cassavetes' SHE'S SO LOVELY and Fred Schepisi's "Empire Falls." She has received three Independent Spirit nominations for her performances in Erin Dignam's LOVED, Rodrigo Garcia's NINE LIVES, and Jeff Stanzler's SORRY, HATERS. She was recently honored with a career tribute at the 35th Annual Deauville American Film Festival. A selection of Wright's film credits include: Bennett Miller's MONEYBALL, Princess Buttercup in Rob Reiner's cult classic THE PRINCESS BRIDE, Barry Levinson's WHAT JUST HAPPENED?; Kevin Macdonald's STATE OF PLAY; Anthony Minghella's BREAKING AND ENTERING; Robert Zemeckis' BEOWULF; Sean Penn's THE PLEDGE; Luis Mandoki's MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE; M. Night Shyamalan's UNBREAKABLE; and Deborah Kampmeier's VIRGIN and HOUNDDOG, for which she was also executive producer.
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Okemo to install heated six-pack bubble chairStaff Report | July 21,2014PROVIDED IMAGEs
Okemo Mountain Resort is installing a new, high-speed, six-pack bubble chairlift with heated seats.LUDLOW — Skiers and snowboarders visiting Okemo Mountain Resort this winter will be viewing the snowy landscape through the bright orange tint of a retractable, transparent dome when they ride in the comfort of a new, high-speed, six-pack bubble chairlift with heated seats — the first of its kind in North America.
The new detachable lift, with chairs that seat six people, will be outfitted with heated seating pads and retractable acrylic domes to protect passengers from wind and weather. The new lift, built by Leitner-Poma, will replace Okemo's Northstar Express lift and is scheduled to begin operation in December.
"There is excitement in the air on the mountain and a buzz around town and among our loyal Okemo skiers, as our Mountain Operation crew dives into the installation of this state-of-the-art lift," said Diane Mueller, executive vice president and co-owner of Okemo Mountain Resort. "Over the years Okemo has had many 'firsts,' beginning with construction of Vermont's largest snowmaking pond. This lift adds another 'first' to the list."
The length of the new lift will be 6,430 feet with a vertical rise of 1,670 feet. The new six-pack bubble chair will carry 113 chairs at a speed of 1,000 feet per minute and deliver skiers and riders to the summit of Okemo Mountain in 6.4 minutes. The cost of the lift, including installation, is $6.9 million.
Plans include the construction of a heated barn at the base of the new lift. Six-pack chairs will be removed from the cable at the end of each day and stored in the barn overnight; preventing a need for snow removal after an overnight snowstorm. In the event of unfavorable nighttime weather, it will also allow the lift cable to be de-iced more efficiently, minimizing lift-opening delays and potential inconvenience to skiing and riding guests.MORE IN This Just InThe Rutland High School varsity cheerleading team is taking their high energy, attention-grabbing... Full StoryPigs nearly managed to fly in Connecticut, terrorized hikers in Maine and drew a police response... Full StoryThe political ascendance of Peter Shumlin came thanks in part to support from the Progressive Party. Full Story
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Youth Organizations Become Involved With 2020 Vision Plan
In 2008, the Berkeley Unified School District (BUSD) created the 2020 Vision Plan in an attempt to close the achievement gap in the district. Over the past two years, city officials, Berkeley High School Principal Jim Slemp, and various teachers have participated on the All City Equity Task Force (ACET) to determine a course of action to close the biggest achievement gap in the state.
The 2020 Vision Plan aims to completely eliminate the achievement gap at BHS by the graduating class of 2020, this year's second graders. The plan is based on eight specific components, or "priorities." These include creating a Plan for Educational Success and Healthy Child Development, improving on parent/guardian and youth engagement, and addressing barriers to learning.
Many concerns have arisen about where funding will come from and a possible lack of diversity on the planning committees. These concerns have been discussed at the meetings and in the context of forums, but no final conclusions have been reached.
High school students began to get involved in the plan last summer, participating in the youth engagement sessions. Youth groups, including Youth Together (YT), Berkeley Youth Alternatives (BYA), Jewish Youth for Community Action (JYCA), and the YMCA–PG&E Teen Center joined together to start the Youth Initiative. Their goal is to learn how to present the information about the achievement gap to their peers as well as to adults.
"Students hadn't been that involved," explained YT leader Chinyere Tutashinda. "It was something I was really wanting to tackle this year."
Berkeley International High School senior Ari Koeppel has been involved in the process for over a year and a half as a member from both the YMCA–PG&E Teen Center and JYCA. "The way I see it, what we are doing now is coming up with a broad, encompassing plan for how to combat racial inequality in the Berkeley schools," explained Koeppel. He added, "By pointing out what the problems are and coming up with the stepping stones for solutions, we are beginning on a path to bring about equal achievement and equal lives among all ethnicities in Berkeley."
"[The] objectives are two–fold," said Tracy Hanna, Executive Director of the YMCA–PG&E Teen Center. "One, to ensure that the YMCA continues to offer services in line with the community's needs and two, to engage youth in their own and their community's educational and health outcomes."
"In our youth meetings, we have been working to turn dense paperwork into exciting ideas that will be accessible to teens," explained Koeppel. The youth partcipants involved have been able to translate the proposal presented by the ACET into a survey with youth–friendly vocabulary. It will be given out to high school students in Berkeley, the results from which will be tallied and presented to the School Board.
"Since the Planning Team is also going to the [City Council and School Board] with their recommendations for priorities, we wanted to be able to deliver our own set of priorities that doesn't contradict the Planning Team's, but complement it by adding in the critical youth voice that we have all desired," explained Sarah Jo, a representative from Berkeley Alliance and coordinator of the Youth Initiative for the 2020 Vision Plan.
Tutashinda also said that the youth engagement sessions are "less [similar to] focus group sessions, and more [like] actually deciding and being part of the decision," adding that an additional goal was to support youth "ownership of the document," and to give teenagers an opportunity to "be part of the process."
An overall goal for the Youth Initiative continues to be informing youth. "We are trying out ways to get the teen community interested and knowledgeable about the changes the are going to take place," commented Koeppel. "It is our goal to find out what teens think about the quality of the goals set out by the adult committee and refine them if necessary."
Tutashinda described this as "providing the youth voice." Youth Intiative will also give the results to the School Board to enable the youth voice to be heard.
However, the amount of weight and respect given to youth input has been questioned. While Jo explained that "there has been very real support and desire from the Planning Team to have youth participation in the 2020 Vision process," Koeppel said he has gotten a different reaction.
"I don't feel as if the youth voice is as prominent as the adult voice in the discussions that are taking place," he explained. "More often than not, in cases like this, the decisions are entirely adult made. In this case specifically, many of the changes being made will not affect teens directly, but for those that do, I think it is imperative that the recipients of aid and the group whose life will be affected voice their opinions on how to most effectively make a positive change."
Despite the miscommunications between the groups, the 2020 Vision Plan has been refined and redrafted consistently and has made a great deal of progress. Many youth and youth leaders remain hopeful about the 2020 Vision Plan. "My hope is that the entire community will rally around the 2020 Vision," explained Hanna. "Because with everyone's commitment and support, we can create positive change."
"It angers me that Berkeley has the highest achievement gap in the state when it is thought largely to be one of the most integrated and diverse places in the country," Koeppel said. "But if we pull this off, we could be a model for cities around the globe on how to coexist." The next community forum hosted by JYCA on Monday, March 22, will allow the youth and adult population alike to continue to come up with ways to close the achievement gap at Berkeley High School.


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