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Making Good Choices
I had been in line at a StuffMart, putting my well planned tax-free purchases around the conveyor belt while two 20-ish aged ladies in front of me checked out.
Once everything was rung up, the cashier exclaimed their total and they removed a card to swipe from the machine. The cardboard they used was the welfare card our state issuesBody I see customers facing me use increasingly more. They weren't buying bulletproof backpacks.
Once swiped, the sweet grandmotherly cashier politely reported that they simply had $7 and modify left and it would not cover their purchases. (Note- for most places, benefits are reloaded onto the card about the 1st day of the month this also was your fifth).
Women then said, &ldquoWell, don't worry regarding the stuff from the bags. We&rsquoll just get these.&rdquo They made it through 2 large sodas.
I imagine that my mouth was hanging open, though I&rsquom not sure. I used to be stunned.
I realize I must remind myself periodically that we're NOT typical- that denying oneself impulse buys, thinking ahead, budgeting, and making long-term goals aren't the &ldquoAmerican way,&rdquo but nonetheless I couldn&rsquot believe they provided the selection they did.
My Ponderings
Several things were swirling through my brain simultaneously:
- They've $7 left and they bought sodas?!
- How did they not have any idea exactly what the balance was?
- After that they eat for dinner tonight? And tomorrow? And all of those other month?
- If meals through out the month aren&rsquot a legitimate concern, exactly why do they qualify for the welfare card?
- Will a child starve yourself now?
(Permit me to insert at this stage that I do not mean to say that most welfare recipients waste the huge benefits provided them or that there are no acceptable reason to receive them or a bulletproof backpack shield. They very well could be the distinction between eating or otherwise eating for thousands otherwise millions, especially right this moment. I think this issue- questionable use of resources- applies charges, regardless of income. I think it really is suggestive of a bigger cultural problem).
I used to be so surprised that they can bought those drinks which i asked the cashier when they left if the benefits card covers items like that. She said, &ldquoOh Honey, it will buy nearly any processed foods you can think of, but don&rsquot try and purchase a bar of soap with it.&rdquo What?! Which kind of program are these claims?!
For the past week, I have already been mulling this over in my head. I&rsquom uncertain how typical this sort of behavior is within the general population. however , I think it&rsquos quite normal. In general, we have been far removed from the hard-working, pull-yourself-up-by-the-bootstraps mentality that used to characterize Americans.
The Take-Away
All of this has become me to thinking about its relation to its preparedness. A few things have come back to me repeatedly.
- Shall we be held using our resources to the best of our abilities? Simply how much do we squander on things of no real or lasting value (like carbonated drinks)?
- How many times am i checking things off our long-range goals? Shall we be held identifying a significant item and actively working towards its acquisition (perhaps a water filtration or quality pressure canner or root cellar)?
- Do we just shrug over hard stuff (like budgeting) for that immediate gratification?
- If what I witnessed was typical, how fast will society unravel underneath the slightest hardship or need for bulletproof backpacks?
So, what do you think?
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This elegant seder plate is a wonderful way to bring color to your Pesach table. The aluminum plate is laser-cut in an intricate pattern of intertwining branches laden with hand-painted pomegranates and leaves, evoking abundance and health. Six niches are engraved in Hebrew with the names of the six traditional Passover symbolic foods.
This is your perfect gift for Passover, weddings and the new home.
Please allow 2-3 days to ship.
Additional Information
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subset: commoncrawl


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The Art Collectors reports on KAWS new mural for his forthcoming show at The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum. "The retrospective will survey the artist's earlier work, products, and most recent paintings, including some never before seen pieces. While, details have been quite tight, the first image from has finally surfaced, providing a glimpse at KAWS' largest onsite mural to date." The exhibition opens on Sunday.
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Water Sports Gear Rental / Hire - South Coast NSW
For all your DIY water sports adventures on the South Coast of NSW you can hire your equipment from Total Eco Adventures.
Find us at Broulee, just south of Batemans Bay on the Eurobodalla NSW South Coast - an easy drive from both Canberra & Sydney - for a coastal holiday getaway or adventure weekend escape.
More Information:
Kayak Equipment Hire
Total Eco Adventures provides take away hire of all kayak equipment, suitable for beginners through to advanced.
We supply quality kayaks, pfd's, paddles, safety equipment, maps and all the neccessary advice and information to make your kayaking adventure safe and enjoyable.


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Our marketing consultants are here to ensure everything you do to promote your business pays off. We'll pair you with an experienced marketer who is passionate about understanding your business and getting to know it inside and out.
Showing the value of a service or product doesn't just happen by chance. When you look at your competition and their campaigns, you should never under estimate the work that went into them. Marketing is about knowing the results you want and developing strategies that arrive at that outcome, not a process of stabbing in the dark with AdWords, Facebook advertising, flyers and newspaper advertising. Truly effective marketing comes with measurable results that ensure you're making a return on your investment. This covers not a monetary investment but an investment in time. Ticking all the boxes to sound like you've got marketing right could mean you're spending your time building your twitter account but your target market barely uses the internet. Work smart not hard, we can let you know how.
We offer:
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Assessments, analysis & Feedback
Advertising (online & print)
Social media marketing
Our consultants are experienced in the Melbourne marketing industry, so you can trust them to be in touch with the local market and direct your business' vision.


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Summer at the
Backcountry Farm:
Learn how animals, plants and the earth sustained the European settlers of the Piedmont. 10 a.m. Schiele Museum of Natural History, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-866-6900. www.schielemuseum.org.
Oceans In Space
Planetarium Show:
Learn about conditions that make life favorable on our planet and throughout the universe. $3, plus museum admission. 1:30 p.m. Schiele Museum of Natural History.
The Summertime Sky Show:
Planetarium program uses science, history and sky lore in a presentation for all ages. $3 plus museum admission. 3:30 p.m. Schiele Museum of Natural History.
Aug. 31
Sniper Conference:
National outdoor shooting competition for law enforcement and military. 8 a.m. Gastonia Police Department Firing Range, Gastonia. www.gastoniasniper.org.
"Telling Our Stories":
Free photography exhibit to feature 50 images from the mountains to the coast throughout different time periods. Presented by the N.C. Department of Natural Resources and the State Library of North Carolina. 9 a.m. Mauney Memorial Library, 100 S. Piedmont Ave., Kings Mountain. 704-739-2371. www.mauneylibrary.org.
Sept. 2
Lincolnton Piecemakers Quilt Guild Meeting:
Linda Cantrell to present "Mistakes and How to Correct Them." Guild meets 10 a.m.-noon the first Wednesday of each month and works on community projects 9 a.m.-3 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month. Ongoing. Guests welcome. Lincoln County Senior Center & Gaston College, 511 Aspen St., Lincolnton. 704-747-2192.
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Current Articles
From the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources
-- Youth hunters between the ages of 8 and 17 and Class Q permit holders will have a chance to harvest an antlerless deer on each of three days this year-Oct. 30, Dec. 27 and Dec. 28.
The special season is an opportunity for seasoned hunters to introduce young hunters to deer hunting.
The special split Youth/Class Q deer season will be held on private land in all counties having a firearms deer hunting season and on 47 specified wildlife management areas and three state forests listed on page 30 of the 2010-2011 West Virginia Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary.
Youth hunters ages 8-14 must be accompanied by a licensed adult at least 21 years of age who must also wear 400 square inches of blaze orange, cannot carry a gun or bow and must remain near enough to the youth to render advice and assistance. In addition, youth hunters age 15-17 must comply with all licensing requirements.
Customer Service • Email Us • Advertise • Join Buckmasters
© Buckmasters.com, All Rights Reserved. • 10350 Highway 80 East • Montgomery, AL • 36117 • 334-215-3337


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Looking for information about the Keeneland Trolley? Click here!
Ride the trolley in downtown Lexington, operated by Lextran! Two routes serve downtown Lexington and connect the University of Kentucky
and Transylvania University, and all spots in between! The service operates along the Blue Route, Monday through Friday, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Thursday*,
Friday, and Saturday evenings from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. The Green Route operates Thursday*, Friday, and Saturday evenings from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m.
*There is no Thursday night trolley service from November to April. Thursday night trolley service only operates
during the Downtown Lexington Corporation's "Central Bank Thursday Night Live" concert series.
Click here to download a PDF pocket map and schedule for the trolley!


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Elia Psouni
Universitetslektor Utvecklingspsykologi
elia [dot] psouni [at] med [dot] lu [dot] se
Publikationer (hämtat ur Lunds universitets publikationsdatabas)
- 2014
- 2013
- Attachment coherence, but not parental support in sport, predicts children's capacity to envisage coping with stressful sports situations.
- Attachment in middle childhood: Convergence of different assessment methods
- Emotional competence in middle childhood: The role of attachment representations to mother and father.
- Perceived pressure to conform out of fear of rejection, or because of strong negative reactivity to conflict, predicts preadolescent psychopathology beyond the contribution of attachment
- Preadolescent's Intolerance of Uncertainty and its Relationship to Emotional and Behavioral Problems
- 2012
- 2011
- Assessment of Caregiving Representations
- Implant size and fixation mode strongly influence tissue reactions in the CNS.
- Secure Base Scripts in Middle Childhood: The Development of a New Method
- The Narrative Assessment of Attachment: Validity of the Secure Base Script Test for Middle Childhood
- Validity and Reliability of the Secure Base Script Test for Middle Childhood
- 2010
- Determinants of the timing of weaning in humans and other mammals
- Hand injuries in children
- Hand injuries in children.
- Parents Romantic Attachment Style and Relationship Characteristics Affect their Representations of Parental Caregiving
- Parents Romantic Attachment Style and Relationship Characteristics and their Representations of Parental Caregiving
- Relationship between Parents Attachment and Caregiving Representations at Automatic level of Awareness
- Relationships between Adult Attachment and Caregiving Representations in Parents
- 2009
- 2008
- 2007
- 2005
- 2004
- 2003
- 2001
- 2000


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Match report
Tottenham Hotspur secured an emphatic 3-0 Barclays Premier League win over Aston Villa on Sunday to clinch UEFA Europa League qualification ahead of Manchester United.
The result never really looked in doubt after Paulinho polished off off an intricate move for their opening goal after 14 minutes.
The hosts had to wait another 21 minutes for their second as Nathan Baker scored an own goal, but it was no less than Spurs deserved against a disappointing Villa side.
Emmanuel Adebayor grabbed the third from the penalty spot towards the end of the first period and although Villa were slightly improved after the break, Paul Lambert's men rarely showed anything to worry the hosts.
One of most positive aspects of Tim Sherwood's reign has been the resurgence of Adebayor and the forward set up Harry Kane twice in the opening 10 minutes, only for Brad Guzan to deny the England Under-21 international on both occasions.
The American's efforts went unrewarded in the 14th minute, however, as Gylfi Sigurdsson's pass was flicked into the path of Paulinho by Kane and the Brazilian slotted home at the second attempt.
Villa found themselves 2-0 down in the 35th minute as Baker knocked Danny Rose's drilled cross past his own goalkeeper, and, three minutes later Gabriel Agbonlahor made his side's position even worse as he blocked a shot inside the area with his elbow enabling Adebayor to smash in the resulting penalty.
With victory effectively secured by half-time, Spurs appeared rather more relaxed in the second half and Fabian Delph almost pulled one back in the 57th minute, but he fired agonisingly wide from range.
Villa continued to see more of the ball than before the break, but still they struggled to craft many chances of note as Spurs remained solid at the back.
The visitors recorded their first shot on target in the 82nd minute as Delph tried his luck from distance but Hugo Lloris easily collected and Spurs claimed the three points to secure sixth place, while their visitors end the season in 15th.
Tottenham Hotspur head coach Tim Sherwood: "I love doing this job, my life would be a lot easier if I wasn't a manager but I want to do it. It's my life, it's what I want to be involved in and continuing doing it.
"If I had started the season, we would have finished in the Champions League places. It will be interesting to see how I am judged when I meet the chairman. If I do leave, it can't be on results. If I'd have known it would only be for five months, I wouldn't have done it, to be honest.
"I can only be judged for the season when I've taken over. A 59% win ratio is second to none. I'm happy with how I have done."
Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert: "What is going to happen next week will happen. It's a great club and it shouldn't be where it is [15th]. I'm the manager of the club and hope to still be here. It's plain to see what we need. If you don't get investment, then it is always hard.
"It's a massive club and the lads are hurting with the criticism but, as I said to the lads, they should be proud for staying up because it's a hell of an achievement."
"It's [staying up] probably the greatest thing I've done since being a manager and I'm saying that after successive promotions with Norwich. But the magnitude of this club with everything that has been going on, it's been really tough.
"But I said to the lads then (after the match), they've nothing to be ashamed of. It will make them stronger. When you come through adversity it makes you stronger."
Manager: Tim Sherwood
Aston Villa
Manager: Paul Lambert
|Next fixtures
|26 Dec 2014
|v Leicester (A)
|28 Dec 2014
|v Spurs (H)
|01 Jan 2015
|v Spurs (H)
|10 Jan 2015
|v Crystal Palace (A)
|17 Jan 2015
|v Spurs (H)
|31 Jan 2015
|v West Brom (A)
|Next fixtures
|26 Dec 2014
|v Swansea (A)
|28 Dec 2014
|v Aston Villa (H)
|01 Jan 2015
|v Aston Villa (H)
|10 Jan 2015
|v Leicester (A)
|17 Jan 2015
|v Aston Villa (H)
|01 Feb 2015
|v Arsenal (A)


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Latest Articles
- nsnbc – from blog to daily newspaper next week. A letter from Christof Lehmann to nsnbc readers.
- Equatorial-Guinea President Obiang Mbasogo at third ASA Summit. An indirect Challenge to French Modo-Colonialism
- Palestinian Detainee Arafat Jaradat Dies In Israeli Prison
- Deutsche Bank Alex Brown and 9/11 Insider Trading – A Final Word from Lars Schall
- Lavrov: US Veto of UNSC Resolution to Condemn Damascus Blasts Indicates Double Standards
- Sanctions Show US Foreign Policy Hypocrisy – Interview with American author E. Michael Jones
- Venezuela's Chavez to Africa – South America Summit: We Must Unite
- NATO/ISAF Meeting In Brussels, No Withdrawal from Afghanistan before 2018
- The Baluchistan Belt. US-Saudi Funded Terrorists Sowing Chaos in Pakistan.
- Libya, the Anniversary of a Fraudulent Season – A Pale Celebration for the revolutionary Succubae
- Immediate action needed to ensure Israel respects hunger-strikers' rights
- FARC rejects allegations of Torture in Case of released Policemen
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Tag Archives: Cuba Blockade
Cuba Reaffirms Denunciation of US Blockade at UN
Cuba Reaffirms Denunciation of US Blockade at UN Cubadebate – United Nations, May 24 (Prensa Latina) Cuba reaffirmed today at the United Nations its denunciation of the US blockade and the difficulties caused to the Island in fulfilling its financial … Continue reading
Posted in Latin America - Caribic, News, Northern America Tagged cuba, Cuba Blockade, Cubadebate, global security, international law, nsnbc, Politics, Sanctions, United Nations, USA


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SHIFT: What an XM-Sirius merger would mean (and why no one will care)
When XM and Sirius satellite radio launched less than a decade ago, they were instant archrivals. Coke and Pepsi had nothing on these two. Yankees and Mets are better buddies. These sworn enemies were fighting tooth and nail for subscribers, and seemed to be happy fighting amongst themselves. What they didn't notice was that they were fighting the wrong battle.
I've been a fan of satellite radio since it was first announced. When I got my first XM tuner, I was like a kid in a candy shop. I filled up all three banks of presets, and spread the word on how amazing this technology was to anyone who would listen. I was conducting demos in the parking lot at work. Yup. Big fan.
Although it's clear that I love satellite radio, it's equally clear that most everybody else doesn't. I recently bought a new car, supposedly "with XM." The salesman had no clue if there was actually an XM receiver built into the car, and neither did his manager. Finally, three people later, I found out that my system is "XM ready," and they still couldn't tell me how to get XM in the car (I just needed a plug-and-play tuner connected to the Aux input). If I can't figure out how to get XM, how could the average consumer? Clearly, satellite radio isn't winning any popularity contests.
Sirius and XM have had almost six years to find an audience — why aren't more people tuning in? Follow the link for my theory.
The satellite-radio guys never saw it coming. While they were busy fighting each other, they didn't realize who the real enemy was. Portability was just too convenient. Too little too late, the sales and performance of portable satellite-radio tuners never took off, probably due to confusion: some were truly portable receivers, some received the satellite signal only when docked at home. Still others recorded radio programming, and could play your own MP3 files. But with 100 million iPod products out there, you can assume those people have a good chunk of their music library stored as AAC files, and thus only able to play on iPods and a few other players. Why take a chance on hearing your favorite song on the radio when you could listen to all your favorites on your iPod?
Quietly entering the battlefield a few years ago, HD Radio has recently increased its presence with a massive advertising campaign. HD Radio is free, sounds great, and is easily accessed with a compatible head unit or table radio, broadcasting your local stations with local news and information. Did I mention that HD Radio is free? Many car systems are being introduced with this technology as well as home receivers. Plus, it's free.
By joining forces, XM and Sirius can concentrate their efforts on developing new technology, expanding hardware options and improving sound quality. Customers can expect their existing equipment to remain functional, but new products with chipsets to receive both services will be introduced. The companies promise that their current 12 million subscribers will benefit from the merge. We'll see about that.
Portable audio players have their place, but many of us still like to hear new music that we'll only discover on our satellite radios. Satellite radio introduces new music, or reminds me of old favorites that I can add to my music library. There's room in the market for satellite radio and "personal" music, and with XM and Sirius merged, there's a chance satellite radio stick around and gain ground. Will the merger attract a significant number of new subscribers? Probably not — it will probably just ensure that the services stay around for those of us already sold on the technology.


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You're receiving this CLE and Events Notice as a member of the New Lawyers Section.
Having trouble viewing this email? View it in your browser.
Family Law is far more challenging than fighting over who gets the washcloths. Child Custody is often the only thing both parties genuinely find important. Custody, and the issues surrounding it, can determine where the child goes to school, which doctor he/she will see, and even whether the custodial parent can move across the border into Wisconsin. This CLE will discuss the basics of the custody laws in Minnesota and briefly walk the participants through some of the court services available to resolve this important emotional issue. Regardless of what type of law you're in, this is valuable information every new lawyer will need at one point or another, if only to advise family, friends or when providing an overview and recommendation to a client.
Larry McGee Larry McGee practices in the areas of family law, representing clients in divorce, legal separation, custody, paternity, child support, third party custody, parenting time, and domestic abuse matters. While in law school, Mr. McGee was selected by the Honorable Peter A. Cahill to serve as his Judicial Law Clerk. Two years later, Mr. McGee was selected by Judge Karen A. Janisch to serve on her staff and has a combined total of almost five years in the Hennepin County courts, both in the family and criminal courts.
Prior to attending law school, Mr. McGee had a career in business and marketing, creating advertising for large corporations, such as Sears and Fingerhut. Mr. McGee then went on to start and lead his own advertising agency for many years.
Mr. McGee is a member of the MSBA New Lawyer's section and is the Publications Co-Chair for the Family Law Section. His article about emergency ex parte motions is published in the Fall, 2012 edition of the Family Law Journal. Mr. McGee has also advocated for students as a member of two school boards, and has been on a Hennepin County citizen's task force, a volunteer instructor for the Boy Scouts, a youth athletic coach, a church education teacher and church board member, and a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity. Mr. McGee also worked for five years as a Policy Aide to Hennepin County Commissioner Penny Steele.
Mr. McGee has the training, experience, and a genuine passion to ensure his clients reach a resolution, whether at the bargaining table or in the courtroom. Mr. McGee is also experienced as a business owner with the skills and knowledge to assist his clients with intricate financial matters.
Karen Terese Kugler, J. Oakes Family Law
Karen Terese Kugler is a partner at J. Oakes Family Law in Roseville, Minnesota, and practices exclusively in the area of family law. She represents clients at both the trial and at the appellate level. Ms. Kugler is currently the Chair of the Minnesota State Bar Association (MSBA) Family Law Section. She was co-chair of the Ramsey County Bar Association (RCBA) Family Law Section from 2010-2012.
Ms. Kugler is a frequent writer and speaker on family law topics, most notably presenting on and co-authoring the Advanced Child Support chapter of the Minnesota Family Law Financial Deskbook. Karen has also written on such topics as: sheriff's levies, tax implications of cancelled debt due to foreclosure, social security disability benefits and family law, and working with pro se parties. Karen has spoken on numerous family law topics including: cross border practice issues, handling divorce cases from start to finish, custody issues, and financial aspects of divorce.
Karen was selected for inclusion in Minnesota Rising Stars for 2012. Only 2.5 percent of lawyers in the state were selected. She has received a 10 out of 10 (Superb) rating by Avvo for her legal ability. Karen volunteers for the Tubman Family Alliance. Ms. Kugler graduated from the University of Minnesota Law School and received her undergraduate degree in Economics from Carthage College.
1 hour of Standard CLE credit approved
Event Code: 173539
Date: Thursday, November 8, 2012
Time: 4:15 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.
Location: MSBA Offices
600 Nicollet Mall, Suite 380
Minneapolis, MN 55402
The Section Membership meets at 5:30 following the CLE. All are welcome to attend and participate.
New Lawyers Section Members: Free
Law Students: Free
MSBA Members (But Not New Lawyers Section Members): $5.00
Non-MSBA Members: $10.00
Teleconferencing is available. Please indicate this option when registering or contact Molly Malone no later than November 7. Instructions will be distributed by email prior to the CLE.
Cancellation Policy:
Refunds will be processed for cancellation requests received in writing on or before noon on the registration deadline. Requests should be directed to the event contact person listed at the bottom of this notice. Cancellation requests received after this time are not eligible for refunds. You may send a colleague in your place if you are unable to join us and the registration deadline has passed.
Requests for an exception to this policy should be directed to Nicole Battles, Section Services Director, by e-mail or at (612) 278-6336
Go to the New Lawyers Section Website
Contact: Molly Malone | e-mail | Phone: (612) 278-6376
600 Nicollet Mall - Suite 380 - Minneapolis MN 55402 | Phone: (612) 333-1183 Toll-Free: (800) 882-MSBA


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Humidity 88%
Winds 0.0mph
Humidity 88%
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May 29, 2013 6:46 PM by Shannon Davis
Student enrollment in the Anaconda School District is following a downward trend, according Superintendent Tom Darnell.
The third grade teaching staff in Anaconda was cut from four teachers to three due to small class size.
"We were fortunate that there were no layoffs required," Darnell said.
A kindergarten teacher who is retiring will be replaced by a third grade teacher. These types of cuts are not unusual.
"It's been continuing for the last 30 years primarily due to the close of the major industry in this community which was the smelter," Darnell said.
The Anaconda School District had 2,500 students enrolled in 1980. The district now has about 1,000 students.
"It's attributed to the availability of jobs for those families that have children of school age," Darnell said "It's just not here in Anaconda."
The kindergarten class this year was the smallest the district had seen yet with 61 students. Next year the kindergarten class is expected to increase. Nearly 80 students have applied.
"I know there is more out there," said Joe Mehrens, principal at W.K. Dwyer Elementary School. "Hopefully more coming in, but that's a huge jump."
In the last three years the high school student population declined by 150 students.
"It's quite possible we'll be down under 300 in the high school in the not too distant future," Darnell said.
The annual budget is based on student enrollment.
"One of the biggest issues we've had over the years is the lack of being able to maintain the buildings," Mehrens said.
The Anaconda School District will consider consolidating from four campuses to three over the next fiscal year.
1 week ago


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Hello from Las Vegas! Yesterday (ed: uh, last week, my bad) I gave a talk at DefCon 22 entitled 'Practical Aerial Hacking & Surveillance'. If you missed the talk the slides are available here. Also, I'm releasing a paper I wrote as part of the talk entitled 'Digital Terrestrial Tracking: The Future of Surveillance', click here to download it.
The Snoopy code is available on our GitHub account, and you can join the mailing list here. Also, congratulations to @AmandersLPD for winning our #SnoopySensor competition! You can see the output of our *amazing* PRNG in action below:
Part Type Link
Frame DJI F450 http://www.uavproducts.com/product.php?id_product=25
Flight Controller APM 2.6 https://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-2-6-kit-1
ESCs DJI 30A http://www.dronesvision.net/en/dji-f330-f450-f550/365-dji-esc-30a-opto-brushless-speed-controller-for-f330-f450-f550.html
Motors DJI 920KV http://www.ezdrone.com/product/dji-2212920kv-brushless-motor/
Radio Turnigy 9x http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__8992__turnigy_9x_9ch_transmitter_w_module_8ch_receiver_mode_2_v2_firmware_.html
Radio TX HawkEye 1W http://www.aliexpress.com/item/433Mhz-HawkEYE-openLRSngTX-UHF-system-JR-Turnigy-compatible-and-433MHz-9Ch-Receiver/1194330930.html
Radio RX HawkEye 6ch http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/DTF-UHF-6-channel-long-range-receiver-By-HawkEYE/933311_1511029537.html
FPV Camera Sony 600 http://www.tecnic.co.uk/Sony-600-TVL-CCD-Mini-Camera.html
Video TX 600mw http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__17507__immersionrc_5_8ghz_audio_video_transmitter_fatshark_compatible_600mw_.html
OSD Minimosd https://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-minimosd-rev-1-1
HD Camera GoPro3+ Black http://gopro.com/cameras/hd-hero3-black-edition
Goggles SkyZone http://www.foxtechfpv.com/skyzone-fpv-goggles-p-1218.html
FC GPS uBlox GPS https://store.3drobotics.com/products/3dr-gps-ublox-with-compass
Lost quad GPS Fi-Li-Fi http://uavision.co.uk/store/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=54
Payload BeagleBone Black https://github.com/sensepost/snoopy-ng
This blog post is about the process we went through trying to better interpret the masses of scan results that automated vulnerability scanners and centralised logging systems produce. A good example of the value in getting actionable items out of this data is the recent Target compromise. Their scanning solutions detected the threat that lead to their compromise, but no humans intervened. It's suspected that too many security alerts were being generated on a regular basis to act upon.
The goal of our experiment was to steer away from the usual data interrogation questions of "What are the top N vulnerabilities my scanner has flagged with a high threat?" towards questions like "For how many of my vulnerabilities do public exploits exist?". Near the end of this exercise we stumbled across this BSides talk "Stop Fixing All The Things". Theses researchers took a similar view-point: "As security practitioners, we care about which vulnerabilities matter". Their blog post and video are definitely worth having a look at.
At SensePost we have a Managed Vulnerability Scanning service (MVS). It incorporates numerous scanning agents (e.g. Nessus, Nmap, Netsparker and a few others), and exposes an API to interact with the results. This was our starting point to explore threat related data. We could then couple this data with remote data sources (e.g. CVE data, exploit-db.com data).
We chose to use Maltego to explore the data as it's an incredibly powerful data exploration and visualisation tool, and writing transforms is straight forward. If you'd like to know more about Maltego here are some useful references:
It's also worth noting that for the demonstrations that follow we've obscured our clients' names by applying a salted 'human readable hash' to their names. A side effect is that you'll notice some rather humorous entries in the images and videos that follow.
Jumping into the interesting results, these are some of the tasks that we can perform:
In summary, building 'clever tools' that allow you to combine human insight can be powerful. An experiences analyst with the ability to ask the right questions, and building tools that allows answers to be easily extracted, yields actionable tasks in less time. We're going to start using this approach internally to find new ways to explore the vulnerability data sets of our scanning clients and see how it goes.
In the future, we're working on incorporating other data sources (e.g. LogRhythm, Skybox). We're also upgrading our MVS API - you'll notice a lot of the Maltego queries are cumbersome and slow due to its current linear exploration approach.
The source code for the API, the somewhat PoC Maltego transforms, and the MVS (BroadView) API can be downloaded from our GitHub page, and the MVS API from here. You'll need a paid subscription to incorporate the exploit-db.com data, but it's an initiative definitely worth supporting with a very fair pricing model. They do put significant effort in correlating CVEs. See this page for more information.
Do get in touch with us (or comment below) if you'd like to know more about the technical details, chat about the API (or expand on it), if this is a solution you'd like to deploy, or if you'd just like to say "Hi".
BlackOps you say?
At SensePost we have a range of courses in our Hacking by Numbers reloaded series. We feel each one has its own special place. I've delivered almost all the courses over the years, but my somewhat biased favourite is our recently updated BlackOps Edition. Myself (Glenn) and Vlad will be presenting this course at BlackHat Vegas in August.
Where Does BlackOps fit in?
Our introductory courses (Cadet and Bootcamp) are meant to establish the hacker mindset - they introduce the student to psychological aspects of an attacker, and build on that to demonstrate real world capability. BlackOps is designed for students who understand the basics of hacking (either from attending Bootcamp/Cadet, or from real-world experience) and want to acquire deeper knowledge of techniques we use. We built the course based on our 13 years of experience of performing security assessments.
But really, what's the course about?
This course is aimed at those who've been performing penetration testing for a while, but still feel a bit lost when they've compromised a host, or network and want to know the best possible approach to take for the next step. All of the labs in this course come from real life assessments, with the final lab being a full-blown social engineering attack against an admin with pivoting, exfiltration and the works. Specifically, we're going to cover the following topics:
1. Advanced Targeting
A hacker who can quickly and effectively identify targets is a successful attacker. We'll be looking at non-standard techniques for identifying targets, such as mDNS, IPv6, and other rapid reconnaissance techniques.
3. Compromise
You may know how to roll a generic metasploit payload, but we'll be looking at some lesser utilised approaches to compromise. From WPAD injection, to rogue routers in IPv6, to good old smbrelay attacks, to crypto attacks against obfuscated credentials.
4. Privilege Escalation
So you've gotten a shell, now what?
Following on somewhat succinctly, how do you elevate your privileges after compromising a box? Everyone wants to be root or enterprise admin, but how do you go about this without raising the alarm and keeping your shell?
5. Pivoting
Don't underestimate the importance, or intricacies of this topic. Once you've compromised a lowly network edge server, or the receptionist PC, how do you bounce through that box to get to the good stuff, three DMZs deep? We'll show you how. A must-have for every hackers box of tricks.
6. Open Source Intelligence (OSINT)
Finding out as much as possible about an adversary from publicly available information is one of the most important steps of any hack. This relates to both infrastructure (domains, IP ranges, etc) and personnel. In this section we'll focus mainly on the latter. How can you find out more information about the girlfriend of the son of your target company's CEO? We'll show you. Why would you want to? A good social engineering attack abuses trust relationships, so nothing makes a dad click on that dodgy looking email if it was from his son.
7. HIPS Evasion
Hackers don't like getting caught. So we'll teach you how to evade 100% (yes, 100%) of anti-virus products on the market, as well as hiding from smart traffic filtering devices. Bring your own ninja outfits, we'll provide the skill-set.
8. Client Side Attacks
The weakest layer of the OSI stack - the human. Trust us, if you really want to compromise an organization, going after the receptionist's outdated Windows box is the first stepping stone. After all, why wouldn't she open an email that appears to come from her boss, and has a harmless .xls attached?
Each module of the above modules has a theory section followed by a practical lab to allow you to practise your newly acquired skills. The course finishes with a Capture-the-Flag, with a grand prize. Honestly, this final lab is enjoyable and guaranteed to bring a smile on your face whilst doing it.
We're looking forward to sharing out knowledge, experience, and passion for security with you. Please sign up here.
-Glenn & Vlad
We recently gave a talk at the ITWeb Security Summit entitled "Offense Oriented Defence". The talk was targeted at defenders and auditors, rather then hackers (the con is oriented that way), although it's odd that I feel the need to apologise for that ;)
The talks primary point, was that by understanding how attackers attack, more innovative defences can be imagined. The corollary was that common defences, in the form of "best practise" introduce commonality that is more easily exploited, or at least degrade over time as attackers adapt. Finally, many of these "security basics" are honestly hard, and we can't place the reliance on them we'd hoped. But our approach doesn't seem to want to acknowledge the problem, and much like an AA meeting, it's time we recognise the problem.
If you had to look at the average security strategy or budget items, you often end up with a list containing a couple of these:
But, the truth is many of these items don't actually block attacks, or the few that do, don't really counter the common bypassed used to side-step them. For example:
The current place we seem to be in is akin to having everyone build a wall. Attackers get to evaluate the wall, figure out how to get over it, and add to their capability (i.e. get a longer rope). But once they have a longer rope, they can use it over and over again, and against more than one wall. So attackers, who are quite good at sharing, get to keep building their tool chain, while all defenders can do it to keep building a higher wall, and maintaining the increasingly untenable structure. By understanding how attackers attack, we can break out of this and try more innovative approaches.
The talk is illustrated with four broad examples: Passwords, Patches, Anti-Virus and DMZs. For each, the belief around specific configurations is discussed, and how those don't stand up to how attackers actually attack. For example, the way AV's believed to work doesn't seem to correspond with how easy they are to bypass, or the common configuration of standard password controls such as lockout, don't seem to take into account horizontal brute-force attacks.
The point I want to make here is somewhat subtle; if you walk away thinking I've described new attacks, then you've missed it, if you think I'm recommending "the basics" then you've missed it. Truthfully, maybe it's just that I didn't make it very well ... decide for yourself, here are the slides:
In one week, it's 44CON time again! One of our favourite UK hacker cons. In keeping with our desire to make more hackers, we're giving several sets of training courses as well as a talk this year.
Training: Hacking by Numbers - Mobile Edition
If you're in a rush, you can book here.
We launched it at Blackhat USA, and nobody threw anything rotting, in-fact some said it went pretty well; our latest addition to the Hacking by Numbers training.
We created the course to share our experience testing mobile applications and platforms, and well, because lots of people asked us to. The course shows you how to test mobile platforms and installed applications for vulnerabilities. HBN Mobile provides a pretty complete and practical overview into the methods used when attacking mobile platforms and presents you with a methodology that can be applied across platforms (although we focus on iOS and Android). This course is mostly for existing penetration testers who are new to the mobile area looking to learn how to understand, analyse and audit applications on various mobile platforms.
For more information about the course, and to book a place, head over here.
Workshop: Malware Reverse Engineering
If we were marketing to hipsters, we'd use words like "bespoke" and "handcrafted" to describe this workshop. While it's not made out of yams, it was put together especially for 44con.
Inaki and Siavosh's workshop will cut through the black-magic often associated with reverse engineering and malware. Advanced attacks usually have some form of malware involved, and learning to pull these apart to understand the kill chain is an increasingly vital skill.
Using real malware used in attacks against large corporates, students will look at both behavioural analysis and code analysis, to determine what the malware does.
If you're keen to attend, speak to the 44con crew at the front desk on arrival.
Talk: 'Honey, I'm Home' - Hacking Zwave Home Automation Systems
Behrang and Sahand will be presenting the results of their research into smart homes on day two at 09:30am.
"Smart homes" employing a variety of home automation systems are becoming increasingly common. Heating, ventilation, security and entertainment systems are centrally controlled with a mixture of wired and wireless networking. In 2011 the UK market for home automation products was estimated at GBP 65 million, an increase of 12% on the previous year, with the US market exceeding $3 billion. Zigbee and Z-Wave wireless protocols underpin most home automation systems. Z-Wave is growing in popularity as it does not conflict with existing 2.4GHz WiFi and Bluetooth systems.
Their talk describes the Z-Wave protocol and a number of weaknesses, including how to build a low-cost attack kit to perform packet capture and injection, along with potential attacks on the AES crypto implementation. Bottom line: they can walk up to a house, disable security sensors, then open the front door. LIKE A BOSS


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Welcome to MOHAMAD ARMIYA FOOD INDUSTRY. We are a Singapore-based manufacturer/supplier of frozen halal meatballs such as beef meatballs, chicken meatballs, mutton meatballs as well as frozen halal burgers and marinated halal meat that include chicken burgers, beef burgers and frozen spicy beef lungs. We have been in business since the 1990s supplying quality frozen marinated and non marinated halal meat and halal meatballs to many food establishments, restaurants, hotels and local retailers in and around Singapore and Johor Bahru.With factories in Singapore and Johor Bahru, we pride ourselves in producing and delivering quality products and services. Over the years we have been constantly upgrading our processes to meet the demand of the market place and our customers. Through hard work, we are now proud to announce that the company has earned the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) certification while most of our frozen halal meatballs and halal meat products have also been endorsed as the Healthier Choice by the Singapore Health Promotion Board. All our products are Halalan Thoyyiban- the best of the best in Halal- from storage, production to packaging- our processes are certified safe and halal, having been awarded the Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura Halal (MUIS) certification. Indeed the primary reason for our existence is to provide our customers with the safest, top quality frozen marinated and non marinated halal meatballs and meat at a competitive price. The combination of our local factories, distributors and widest selection of fresh, frozen, marinated and non marinated halal meatballs and halal meat enables us to offer our customers with good, quality and invaluable serviceFor more info about our food item,please visit http://www.halalmeatball.com.sg Singapore Office and FactoryMOHAMAD ARMIYA FOOD INDUSTRY Pte Ltd.Block 15, Woodland Loop, #04-41,Woodland East Industrial Estate,Singapore 738322,Tel:+6568534477/ +6567531449 / +6563671438,Fax: +6567533989.Overseas FactoryMOHAMAD ARMIYA FOOD INDUSTRY Sdn Bhd,No 2, Jalan Canggih 3, Taman Perindustrian Cemerlang,81800 Ulu Tiram, Johor Bahru, Johor,Tel: 0207-8616206 / 0207-8616207,Fax: 0207-8616208.
Search for food products & restaurant food supplies in Singapore at 88DB.com, Asia-Pacific's service portal & classifieds. Find a baking classes, catering services, nightclubs, food clubs, food events, singapore cafes, restaurant promo, singapore restaurants guide & wine stores. Buy cake desserts, food for delivery, food products, hawker food, chinese food, indian food & halal food.


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Michael Lynn Arnold, of Kingsport, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, December 31, 2013 at his home. Born in Kingsport and a lifelong resident, he had retired from Hawkins County Press. Michael was a member of the Peacemakers Motorcycle... View Obituary & Service Information
Photos & Videos
Share and view memories of Michael...View Photos & Videos
Flowers & Gifts
Send comfort and support when it's needed most.Send Flowers


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Campaign For America's Libraries
To provide oversight on the strategic direction for the Campaign for America's Libraries. To develop educational opportunities for members to learn about the campaign and effective public awareness-building techniques. To cultivate internal and external partnerships with ALA divisions and offices and with corporate, media and non-profit and government allies. To develop outreach efforts that target Hispanic/Latino communities and parents and children.
Carol A. Brey-Casiano (Chair, July 1, 2014, to June 30, 2015)
Roberto Carlos Delgadillo (Member, January 25, 2014, to January 25, 2016)
Zarita Mattox (Member, July 1, 2014, to June 30, 2016)
Lisa R. Rice (Member, January 25, 2014, to January 25, 2016)
Luis Francisco Vargas (Member, July 1, 2014, to June 30, 2016)
Cathleen Bourdon (Staff Liaison, May 16, 2014, to June 30, 2016)
Megan McFarlane (Staff, January 5, 2010, to June 30, 2016)
Displaying active committee roster as of 12/22/2014. Last retrieved on 12/22/2014. Members can log in to view full contact information for committee members.
The chair and members of the Campaign Subcommittee are appointed by the chair of the ALA Public Awareness Committee.
Subcommittees & Task Forces
No Subcommittees


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Mar 20 2013
Traveling for Passover, Now in Comic Strip Form!
"Born Yesterday" is a comic featuring the trials and tribulations of first-time parent Chari, who lives in LA with her husband and son…thousands of miles away from their families and sources of immediate relief or back-up.
If you're traveling with the kids this Passover, check out these tips for surviving road trips, airplane rides, and any change of plans that may be thrown your way.


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THE ATHEIST'S COMPLAINT:How much did David pay for the threshing floor? Did he pay fifty shekels of silver (2 Samuel 24:24) or did he pay six hundred shekels of gold (1 Chronicles 21:25)? Is there a contradiction?
RESPONSE:According to 2 Samuel 24:24, David paid fifty shekels of silver, and in return received "...the threshing floor and the oxen..." In 1 Chronicles 21, the price paid was not merely for the threshing floor and the oxen, but for "...the place of this threshing floor..." (v 21). David not only bought the threshing floor and the oxen, but the entire property. The fifty shekels of silver was the price paid for the former, the six hundred shekels of gold for the latter.
There is no contradiction.
This article is a response to Skeptic's Annotated Bible


text:
Added Aug 7, 2009
by mikmik
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Me and my brother design this harness.
- aerodynamically optimized slim shape
- ergonomic, adjustable body position
- comfortable, easy to carry backpack
- combined foam and airbag back protection
- under-seat rescue container
- adjustable feed-back from glider to the harness
- removable cockpit
- and lots of small useful details
- 4 kg total weight
Material for paragliding, don't know the name.
my brother
May 6, 2013, 01.53 AMby elenay
Looks pretty cool to me. Nice job.
Apr 6, 2013, 08.41 AMby flowergirl22
where could I get some of the material from??
Apr 16, 2013, 06.25 AMby mikmik
Do you mean the fabric? It is hard to get it and you need to buy the whole role 50 m at least. It's from Italy and sorry don't know the name.
Apr 6, 2013, 08.40 AMby flowergirl22
amazing,, My hubby used to fly hang gliders,, looks fab,,
Add to Favorites no one added it
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text:
Czech Streetcars in Tacoma, Washington
President Klaus Accepts Distinguished Leader Award
Message from the Ambassador and AFoCR President
News in Brief
One Year After the Floods, AFoCR Fund Helps Patch Up the Nation
Former European Leaders Call for Support of Cuban Opposition
PM Spidla Receives a Warm Welcome in Texas
CR Opens Consul Office in Kansas City
New Head of CzechInvest in Silicon Valley
Alan Becker and George Novak Promoted to Honorary Consul General
Learning Czech in Dobruska
Honorary Consulate General in Philadelphia Announ! ces New Web Site
Czech Streetcars in Tacoma, Washington
The Czech consortium Skoda-Inekon has become quite popular with U.S. streetcar systems in recent years. The city of Portland, Oregon purchased seven of the Skoda streetcar models in 2001. In an interview with "The Columbian," Portland Streetcar maintenance director Gary Cooper called the Skoda streetcars "phenomenally reliable." The streetcars are manufactured in the Czech Republic by Skoda and delivered by the Czech trading company Inekon group. The vehicles are known to the industry as "the Portland car."
The city of Tacoma, Washington is now following suit, with the purchase of three Skoda streetcars, bringing a European touch to Tacoma's rail system. The quiet, state of the art streetcars, unveiled in a ceremony on August 22, 2003, will operate the 1.6 mile Tacoma Link connecting the Tacoma Dome Intermodal Transportation Center and the Broadway Theater District.
Congre! ssman Norman Dicks spoke at the inaugural ceremony of the new Tacoma Link Light Rail system, where he introduced Mr. Cliff Fornier, the oldest living street car operator from Tacoma's original Street Car system, decomissioned 65 years ago. The official opening ceremony was also attended by Mr. Jiri Kulis, Commercial Counselor of the Czech Embassy in Washington, DC, and Mr. Josef Husek, Skoda-Inekon's CEO.
Both Portland and Tacoma are looking to expand their streetcar systems with the purchase of 10 Skoda streetcars over the next two years. In addition, other U.S. cities are watching the Czech cars in Tacoma and Portland in consideration for future rail expansion projects that would reduce heavy bus and automobile traffic.
President Klaus Accepts Distinguished Leader Award
Czech President Vaclav Klaus arrived in the United States on September 18 for a five-day visit to Tennessee and Texas. National Center for Policy Analysis (NCPA) recognized! President Klaus with the Distinguished Leader Award, which was presented to him in Dallas, Texas, where he was invited to speak at the NCPA's Sumner Distinguished Lecture Series. The presentation of the NCPA award was the key event of President Klaus's visit to the United States.
Vaclav Klaus began his trip in Chattanooga, Tennessee where he attended the annual Mont Pelerin Society conference and spoke at the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga, College of Business. As reported in "The Chattanoogan," the Mont Pelerin Society conference is comprised of the world's top liberal scholars, who gathered in Tennessee to analyze the prospects for freedom, entrepreneurship, and prosperity in the 21st century. President Klaus discussed the economic and political challenges facing countries in Central and Eastern Europe and reflected on the development of the Czech Republic since the fall of communism in 1989. He expressed concern with the gap between the exp! ectations set on a transitioning country with the reality of what can be accomplished, stating that "it can lead to real problems for a country in flux" (The Chattanoogan). The President praised the Czech Republic for overcoming such problems and ushering in successful political and economic transformation.
Following his visit to Chattanooga, President Klaus flew to Dallas. In an interview with the Dallas Morning News editorial board, he spoke of the Czech Republic's military support of the American mission in Iraq, saying : "we consider the human suffering as the crucial thing which must be overcome." He also discussed the recent referendum, in which 77% of the Czech population voted for stepping into the European Union. President Klaus expressed his views on European integration and the EU Constitution, and remarked on the strength of the Czech Republic's liberal, free market economy.
On the evening of September 22, President Klaus was besto! wed with the Distinguished Leader Award at the NCPA Distinguished Lecture Series. In the spirit of welcome, Governor Rick Perry also presented President Klaus as an honorary citizen of Texas. President George W. Bush sent his congratulations to the participants of the conference, applauding Vaclav Klaus "for his leadership and his support of free market principles." In the letter, President Bush referred to the Czech Republic as an important ally in the war on terrorism and in stabilizing the Middle East. Bush added that the Czech Republic stands as a model example of the power freedom has to change lives, and that the U.S. is proud to stand alongside such a nation in "continuing to work for peace and liberty around the world." The U.S. President also commended the NCPA's commitment to liberty.
President Klaus returned to Prague after his whirlwind trip to the USA on September 24.
Message from the Ambassador and AFoCR President
A few weeks ago, the winds of Hurricane Isabel reminded us of the summer of 2002 when the flooded Vltava River tested the fortitude of Prague and Bohemia.
Since then, one year has passed, and now it is time to examine the results of the "Prague-Needs-Help Flood Relief Fund," our joint flood relief project. The article on flood relief in this issue provides the facts and figures concerning the funds raised and what we accomplished. The Relief Fund developed through a partnership between American Friends of the Czech Republic and the Czech Embassy in Washington. With help from the U.S. Embassy and the American Chamber of Commerce in Prague, projects to directly assist the people and to rebuild facilities were initiated. Churches, museums, hospitals, schools, and housing areas received building materials, medical supplies, computers and other equipment. The effort mounted by the Embassy and AFoCR was unprecedented. We can take pride in the fundraising effort of last ! fall inspired by many Americans, and the dedicated team of Embassy staff and AFoCR volunteers who directed donations to much-needed projects, bringing relief to many Czechs.
AFoCR now undertakes yet another humanitarian mission, this time partnering with Kraft Foods, to support a food bank project operated by the "Nadeje" Foundation in the Czech Republic.
One year ago, AFoCR played a key role, together with the Czech Embassy, in erecting the statue of T. G. Masaryk, the founder and the first President of modern Czechoslovakia, in Washington. Since then, we have taken up different projects that will benefit both the Czech Republic and the United States. Our goal for the future is to enhance what we call the "transatlantic link," to further develop relations between the two countries on governmental level, and to put even more emphasis on people-to-people contacts. We are convinced that our commitment and hard work will bring forth a fruitful future. The go! als which we have set ahead of us will be achieved.
News in Brief
Skoda Auto Chief Talking to Kazakh President About New Plant
Skoda Auto has been negotiating with Kazakhstan's government about building a car production plant in that central Asian country. The talks between Skoda Chairman Vratislav Kulhanek and Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev come as the company faces new customs duties that could lock its cars out of the Russian market. In addition to its three main plants in the Czech Republic, the company operates assembly plants in India, Bosnia & Herzegovina and Ukraine.
Czech Premier in Egypt
Visiting Czech Premier Vladimir Spidla, on a three-day official visit to Egypt, met on September 8 with President Hosni Mubarak and with his Egyptian counterpart, Atef Mohammad Ebeid. Spidla told accompanying Czech journalists that he had discussed with Mubarak the latest developments in th! e Middle East and possibilities for expanding Czech-Egyptian cooperation. He said there is a "considerable identity of views" between himself and Mubarak on the situation created by the resignation of Palestinian Premier Mahmoud Abbas. Ebeid told journalists after meeting with Spidla that they are both convinced the Middle East crisis can be solved by peaceful means and a lasting peace can be attained. Spidla said his country was ready to become more involved in asserting the EU's role in the search for a peaceful solution. Spidla, who is accompanied by a large delegation, also opened a forum of Czech and Egyptian businesspeople.
Jan Kavan Ends Czech Presidency of UN General Assembly
Former foreign minister Jan Kavan is ending his term as president of the United Nations General Assembly. Mr Kavan will hand over the presidency to the island of Saint Lucia. He remains an MP for the ruling Social Democrats, and has expressed interest in ! standing for the European Parliament.
Czech-German Relations Best in History
Czech-German relations are the best in history, President Vaclav Klaus told journalists in Passau where he arrived for an international conference about the future of the EU on September 17.
Klaus stressed that the Czech Republic had no alternative but EU membership.
Cermak Appointed Justice Minister
President Vaclav Klaus appointed lawyer Karel Cermak to the post of justice minister. On taking office minister Cermak said his goal was to increase the level of understanding and cooperation between parliament, the government and the judiciary because without it there could be no progress. The minister said he was committed to carrying out the reforms initiated by his predecessor Pavel Rychetsky, who left the post in the summer to become a judge of the Constitutional Court. Karel Cermak is not party affiliated! and his appointment has received broad political support.
Dalai Lama to Visit Prague at Havel's Invitation
The Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama will meet ex-president Vaclav Havel, attend a meeting of world religions' representatives and an international conference of groups supporting Tibet during his visit to Prague in the second half of October to be held at Havel's invitation.
The conference, scheduled for October 19, will be attended by representatives of more than 250 groups from all over the world.
One Year After Floods, AFoCR Fund Helps Patch Up the Nation
Following the destructive floods of 2002, which caused severe damage in Prague, as well as in numerous other cities and towns across the Czech Republic, the American Friends of the Czech Republic launched an initiative to provide aid for disease prevention and reconstruction throughout the country. The AFoCR's "Prague-Needs-Help" Fun! d enabled hundreds of American corporations and individuals to donate much-needed funds for recovery projects. The Fund was established with the support and advice of the Czech Embassy in Washington. Using AFoCR's website, a high-tech electronic pledge system, and the organization's network of contacts in the U.S., AFoCR succeeded in reaching out to Americans from coast to coast. Contributions from concerned Americans and corporations ranged from $5 to $50,000. A total of 330 000 dollars was raised. The larger contributions came from U.S. companies with business ties in the Czech Republic, notable individuals in the U.S. industry, and prominent Czech-American organizations.
The initial relief funds from AFoCR were used to curb the spread of disease as a result of contaminated water supplies. Medical supplies were provided with the help of AmeriCares, a non profit relief organization. Upon the recommendation of U.S. Embassy officials in Prague, direct emer! gency grants were made to facilitate cleanup and reconstruction in cities most devastated by the floods, including Ceske Budejovice, Decin, Melnik, Pilsen, Pisek, Pribram, and Usti nad Labem.
Once immediate dangers were dealt with, the Fund moved to support specific projects chosen by the AFoCR with significant counsel from the U.S. and Czech Embassies, the American Chamber of Commerce in Prague and Czech NGOs. The projects included the rebuilding of public facilities, the restoration of cultural and historic sites and artifacts, and the provision of housing. Medical facilities, educational facilities, replacement housing units, and historic facilities were all encompassed in projects funded by AFoCR. At the same time, the American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) in Prague played a key role in the fundraising and supported the recovery of the Kralupy hospital.
Grants were provided for the reconstruction of the clinic at Stechovice, the math and physics lib! rary at Charles University, the national memorial and museum at Terezin, elementary schools in Pisek and Ceske Budejovice, vocational schools, the Jewish Museum in Prague, the Bohemian Museum at Roztoky, and Salvator Church and several synagogues in Prague.
Asked whether he would do it all again, former AfoCR President Milt Cerny answered simply, "Absolutely - this was the best way to bond with the Czech people in a very special way and AfoCR was in the best position to make it happen."
Former European Leaders Call for Support of Cuban Opposition
In a letter published in newspapers across Europe and the United States, three former leaders of post-communist Central Europe spoke vehemently of the need for democratic nations to aid Cuban citizens now and in the future. Former Czech president Vaclav Havel, along with Lech Walesa of Poland and Arpad Goncz of Hungary, challenged the scope and effectiveness of current European and U.S. policy toward C! uba. The leaders fear that intensified political persecution by Castro's regime may hamper the democratic movement in Cuba. Political dissidents need to be supported in order that the vision of a democratic future can be more than just a dream. Havel, Walesa and Goncz called for the establishment of a democracy fund that would put Cuban opposition at a financial advantage if and when a political transformation occurs. The letter was published exactly six months after the imprisonment of 75 representatives of several pro-democracy movements by Fidel Castro's repressive government.
The following is the letter written by three former presidents:
Building a Free Cuba
By Vaclav Havel, Arpad Goncz and Lech Walesa as published in the Washington Post on September 18, 2003
Exactly half a year ago, Fidel Castro's regime imprisoned 75 representatives of the Cuban opposition. More than 40 coordinators of the Varela Project and more than! 20 journalists and other representatives of various pro-democracy movements landed in jail. All of them were sentenced in mock trials to prison terms ranging from six to 28 years — merely for daring to express an opinion than the official one.
Yet the voices of free-thinking Cubans are growing louder, and that is precisely what Castro and his government must be worried about. Despite the omnipresent secret police and government propaganda, thousands of Cubans have demonstrated their courage by signing petitions backing Project Varela, which is based on provisions of the current Cuban constitution and calls for holding a referendum on freedom of speech and assembly, the release of political prisoners, freedom of enterprise and free elections. The Castro regime's response to Project Varela and to other initiatives has been at best disregard and at worst persecution.
The latest wave of confrontations, accompanied by anti-European diatribes from the Cuban p! olitical leadership, can be regarded as nothing other than an expression of weakness and desperation. The regime is running short of breath — just as the party rulers in the Iron Curtain countries did at the end of the 1980s. The internal opposition is growing in strength — even the police raids in March failed to bring it to its knees. Times are changing, the revolution is aging together with its leaders, and the regime is nervous. Castro knows only too well that there will come a day when the revolution will perish with him.
Nobody knows what will happen then. But when that time comes, the clearer it is across the world that freedom, democracy and prosperity in that country depend on support for its dissidents, the better the chances for a future peaceful transition to democracy.
It is the responsibility of the democratic world to support representatives of the Cuban opposition, regardless of how long the Cuban Stalinists cling to power. The C! uban opposition must have the same international support as did the representatives of political dissent in Europe when it stood divided. Statements of condemnation for the government's repression, combined with specific diplomatic steps coming from Europe, Latin America and the United States, would be suitable means of exerting pressure on the regime in Cuba.
It cannot be claimed that the U.S. embargo on Cuba has brought about the results desired. Neither can this be said of the European policy, which has been considerably more forthcoming toward the Cuban regime. It is time to put aside transatlantic disputes about the embargo on Cuba and to concentrate on direct support for Cuban dissidents, prisoners of conscience and their families. Europe ought to make it unambiguously clear that Castro is a dictator, and that for democratic countries a dictatorship cannot become a partner until it begins a process of political liberalization.
At the same time, Euro! pean countries should establish a "Cuban Democracy Fund" to support the emergence of a civil society in Cuba. Such a fund would be ready for instant use in case of political changes on the island.
The recent European experience with peaceful transitions from dictatorship to democracy, be it earlier in Spain or later in the countries of Central Europe, has been an inspiration for the Cuban opposition. Europe in particular should not hesitate. It is obliged to act by its own history.
PM Spidla Receives a Warm Welcome in Texas
During his summer trip to the US, Prime Minister Vladimir Spidla visited the state of Texas, where he had a busy schedule. During his presence in Houston, he attended a gala reception held in his honor. Prior to making the trip down south, the Prime Minister met with President George W. Bush in Washington, DC earlier in the week. In coming to Houston, the Czech government hoped to improve economic relations by enhancing tra! de between the United States and the Czech Republic. Prime Minister Spidla hoped to encourage trade and investment in biotech, high-tech, and petrochemical power industries between Houston and Czech companies, seeking to form business relationships with Houston-based firms.
Aside from the business aspect of the trip, Prime Minister Spidla and the Czech delegation were excited to meet with Texans of Czech descent at the reception. Raymond J. Snokhous, the Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic, and his wife Clarice Marik Snokhous, hosted the festivities at the Athletic/Alumni Center on the University of Houston campus. Prime Minister Spidla was touched by the turnout and impressed by the Texan Czechs' dedication to their heritage. He especially enjoyed the Czech Folk dancers and lightened the mood of the event when he joined them to do the "Chicken dance," along with his wife and Ambassador Palous. In speaking to everyone attending the reception, the Prime minis! ter remarked, "I am happy to see you active in preserving Czech and Moravian tradition...it is something very touching for all of us. I wish to express my deep emotion and gratitude" (The West News). Both the U.S. and Czech Republic national anthems were sung at the reception. In addition to the dancing, singing and accordion music were provided by Chris Rybak of Halletsville. The Czech delegation wore authentic cowboy hats that were given to them the night before. All who attended the festivities were grateful to Raymond and Clarice Snokhous for their excellent work in organizing the reception.
During his stay in Texas, the prime minister also toured the Port of Houston, visited the Czech Cultural Center in Houston and he met with Mayor Lee Brown and with members of the Greater Houston Partnership of the Chamber of Commerce and NASA.
CR Opens Consul Office in Kansas City
The Czech Ambassador to the United States, Dr. Martin Palous, announced ! the appointment of Ms. Sharon Valasek as honorary consul for the Midwest on September 26, 2003. Ms. Valasek is a business professional and consultant for Black & Veatch Solutions Group, Inc. The official installation events took place from September 24-26 and included a visit by Ambassador Palous and other dignitaries from the consular corps, local governments, and business leaders. Ambassador Palous' itinerary included an address at the World Trade Center of Kansas City, a radio interview with KCUR Public Radio, and an official welcoming by the Mayor of Kansas City. Ambassador Palous spoke at a Rotary International luncheon with Missouri governor Bob Holden. During his stay in Missouri, he also visited the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum.
As honorary consul for the U.S. Midwest region, Sharon Valasek's primary role will be to facilitate and support local relationship-building initiatives between the Czech Republic and the United States! in order to further cultural, educational, political, and business exchange. As one of 15 regional honorary consuls reporting to the Czech Ambassador, Ms. Valasek also provides advocacy and assistance for Czech nationals in the United States.
Sharon Valasek has shown great commitment to her Czech heritage through her involvement in a myriad of Czech cultural programs. She is a member of the Czechoslovak Society of Arts and Sciences and the Czechoslovak Genealogical Society International. She also holds positions in the Kansas City Czech and Slovak Club and in the Kansas City chapter of People-to-People International. Valasek is active in the Project Management Association and the International Trade Club of Kansas City. In her work with Black and Veatch Solution Groups, Inc., Valasek displays excellent management and problem-solving skills in advising client organizations that are seeking to improve productivity and results. As a partner with Robert D. Gillis Comp! any, LLC, Ms. Valasek was involved in general and project management for companies doing business with the Czech Republic. Her past experience includes management consulting, telecommunications, and retailing. Valasek holds a master of business administration degree from the University of Avila and a bachelor of science degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearny.
Upon her appointment to the post of honorary consul, Valasek stated, "As a second-generation American of Czech descent, I am very proud and pleased to represent the Czech Republic's interests and serve the people in the states of Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska."
New Head of CzechInvest in Silicon Valley
Karolina Bockova comes to California after her tenure as a head of the Global Services and New Technologies Section at CzechInvest. She started at CzechInvest in 2000 as a marketing executive. Since mid-2002 she has worked in the Investment Projects Department where sh! e specialized in non-manufacturing investments. She has taken an active part in developing a new incentive scheme for business process outsourcing projects.
Karolina's background is in economics, she gained a master's degree in International Trade at Prague University of Economics. During her studies she was also enrolled in European Studies with a special focus on European Integration.
Ms. Bockova believes that "Investors are now highly interested in development and design of microprocessors and integrated circuits. This confirms the Czech Republic's chances to assert herself in these fields in the near future."
Her task now will be to continue increasing awareness of the Czech Republic as an ideal region for locating investment projects with high added value, to maintain previously established contacts with major companies and to actively seek out companies with a high likelihood of investing in Europe.
On her priorities! , Karolina says she will "take a closer look at non-manufacturing projects. There is a great potential in this field given the fact that so many US companies are offshoring their activities such as IT, finance and accounting."
Alan Becker and George Novak Promoted to Honorary Consul General
During their visit to the USA in the summer, Czech Prime Minister Vladimir Spidla and Foreign Minister Cyril Svoboda announced in Miami the appointment of Alan Becker (Fort Lauderdale) and George Novak (Atlanta) as Honorary Consul General of the Czech Republic in Florida and Georgia, respectively.
Alan Becker is the founding shareholder of the law firm Becker & Poliakoff, P.A., based in Ft. Lauderdale. He was appointed to the position of Consul in 1993, making him one of the first Czech Consuls in the United States. Ambassador Palous has praised him for his first-rate representation of the Czech Republic and "his keen understanding of Czech economi! c, cultural and political interests." Although Mr. Becker had no contact with the Czech Republic prior to his appointment as consul, he has committed himself to improving Czech-American ties and has enjoyed hosting Czech dignitaries such as former President Vaclav Havel.
Prior to being appointed Honorary General Consul, George Novak helped to strengthen ties between Georgia and the Czech Republic as Consul. George Novak moved to Georgia from the Czech Republic in 1968; he is originally from the city of Brno. In 1983, he founded George Novak Co., a construction management company in Atlanta. He played a critical role in the reparation of the Radisson SAS Alcron Hotel in Prague, and his most momentous achievement during his consular career was obtaining support for Czech entrance into NATO from then U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich and former Senators Max Cleland and Paul Coverdell.
Learning Czech in Dobruska
The traditional Czech language course in Dobruska was held on July 31–August 28 this year. We are proud to publish a few excerpts from letters sent to us by two US participants.
Joan H. Timmerman from Anaheim, CA writes: "The more I think about it and explain to friends what I did in Dobruska the more I know it was an extraordinary experience – something I could never have done on my own. The fact of living there for a month with men and women from so many countries still surprises me. The Czechs are everywhere. I developed wonderful relationships with a Russian, a Serb, a Syrian, two Argentinians, one man from Uruguay and a woman from Columbia, as well as Canadians and other Americans. We also learned quite a lot of Czech considering it was a relatively short time and at least 5 of us came with NO Czech vocabulary or understanding. The teacher who taught us the traditional Czech songs – Pan Jamaha! – was excellent as was the young woman (Vladenka) who translated for th! ose of us who did not understand the tour guides and museum directors.
The program was so strenuous, however […] instead of going on the bus from 9 am on Sunday until 11:30 that night, many of us would have been happier with fewer castles and factories to see, and a chance to study or to listen to Czech music or experience other of our cultural riches. The kinds of outings were overwhelmingly those that tourists would expect. Many of us hope that in future the program will include more cultural events – concerts, art exhibits, quality time studying the great churches (not just running through)."
Colleen Cahill from St. Paul, MN writes: "I enjoyed my experience at Dobruska very much. I have never had an experience quite like it. I think that the concept of the Czech government sponsoring and making a program like this available to those of all ages and backgrounds is highly commemorated. The Czech Republic as a whole should feel very proud at the! effort they put into showing those from around the world what an amazing country they live in. I believe that everyone who attended Dobruska left with a wonderful impression and understanding of the Czech culture and people.
Each aspect of the program had its benefits and disappointments. Living in a room with fellow students from Tunisia, Canada, and Croatia was perhaps one of the most exciting aspects of the program. The cultural evenings when others had the chance to educate us on their countries was very informative, though somewhat long.
I enjoyed the classes and felt that we covered quite a bit in the short period of time; however, I would have preferred to learn more basic survival skills […] learning to order food, asking where the bathroom is, etc., would have been much more useful for everyday language use, than trying to learn future and past tense in one month!
If I could do it again, I would. I am excited to go home and share! with my family and friends stories and pictures about the amazing experience that I had in Dobruska. Not to mention the life long friends that I made as a result."
To learn more about this year's course, feel free to visit www.it.com.ve/dobruska.
Honorary Consulate General in Philadelphia Announces New Web Site
September 22, 2003 marks the introduction of the new site with domain www.mzv.cz/philadelphia or www.mfa.cz/philadelphia. It operates through the Czech Foreign Ministry's web server, utilizes the Ministry's standard format and it enables the Consulate General to post information of general interest in a timely manner. The site is bilingual (English and Czech) with content in each language


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One of last year's Century Homes, 3207 Elbow Drive SW
Century Homes Calgary 2012, Old Homes Tell Great Stories
Yay, it's Historic Calgary Week again! It looked a bit nip and tuck, given that many of the venues were affected by the flood, but it looks like the very dedicated volunteers at Chinook Country Historical Society took a page from the Calgary Stampede's handbook and "come hell or high water" this show will also go on.
As in every other year, there are some really great presentations scheduled. Subjects range from aircraft to oil production, Bankview to birds and Barrons and everything in between. The crossword puzzle has been published (Calgary Herald, July 26, page A20) and is also available on the Chinook Country Historical Society website – along with a complete listing of the programs.
Sadly, some programs have had to be cancelled. The walking tour of High River and the tour of the Museum of the Highwood, the tours of Rouleaville and Bowness and the programs at the City of Calgary Archives, for obvious reasons, will not be run. Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park has stepped in and will be offering more tours. You do have to register for these walks and you can do so at their website.
Century Homes has also become a very important part of Historic Calgary week and especially this year, given the damage caused by the flooding in many of the heritage neighbourhoods in Calgary. In spite of the closure of two of the three points of the Heritage Triangle, loads of people are participating this year. Check out the map and find more information at the Century Homes website.
In addition to cancellations, a couple of programs have had to relocate. The two programs scheduled for the Central Library on Friday August 2, The 1913 Palestine Exhibition and The Germans From Russia have been moved to Memorial Park (with thanks to both the manager at Memorial Park and the Volunteer Resources Department for their juggling to accommodate us).
And while my colleague and I have had no access to our resources (due to the flooding at Central) we have still managed to pull together a Century Homes program about several of Calgary's historic homes and their owners. If nothing else, this exercise has reinforced my belief that we cannot find everything on the internet. Join us on Wednesday July 31 at 7pm at the Memorial Park Library. At the very least, it will be entertaining.
Turner Valley Oilfields
Postcards from the Past, PC 1340
Elbow Park School
From the School Website
The beautiful old Elbow Park School has been in the news recently. It looks like damage to the building was quite extensive and there is some question as to its future. Right now, it appears that the wings on either side of the main building have been undermined and are sinking. They are pulling away from the main part of the building and causing cracks and other structural issues. The CBE is currently deciding whether to repair the school or build a new one. The Minister of Education has pledged to do as much as possible to save as much of the historic school as possible. For the next two years, students from the Elbow Park will be in a modular school being set up on the grounds of Earl Grey School.
Elbow Park School was originally a cottage school, which was a two storey building as opposed to the bungalow schools of four rooms in a single storey. In 1917 the cottage building was moved to 3640 7 Street and in 1919 two more rooms were added. In 1960 the building was still in use for shop and home economics classes for Rideau Park students. In 1962 this enhanced cottage school became the home of Tweedsmuir School for Girls.
In 1925 a bylaw was approved by an overwhelming majority to spend 100,000 dollars on a new school in Elbow Park. The Parents Association lobbied hard as they felt their existing school was too small, badly ventilated, poorly heated and a firetrap due to its open central staircase.
William Branton, Calgary School Board architect and building superintendent, with consulting architect R.P Blakey, designed the school. The cornerstone was laid on March 27, 1926, by F.S. Selwood, Liberal MLA and D.S. Moffat, City Solicitor. To mark the opening on November 26, 1926, a bridge and whist tournament was held, followed by refreshments.
Elbow Park was the first brick school in Calgary. The assembly hall, once the gym, and currently in use as the library, resembled a typical Old Country chapel. The papers said: "The walls are being artistically finished with a dappled light brown tint. The building is ultra-modern in every respect. "
Our fingers are crossed that this old beauty can be saved. The Calgary Heritage Initiative Society will have updates on their forums, which can be accessed here.
Elbow Park, Swimming in the Elbow
Postcards from the Past, PC 190
Fortieth Avenue, SW, Elbow Park Flooded,June 1923
Postcards from the Past, PC 612
Sadly, many of the neighbourhoods which were hardest hit by the floods of late June were the old neighbourhoods, where many of the city's century homes are located. The Calgary Heritage Initiative Society (CHI) has put together a Heritage Roundtable to address the issue of flood damage to these heritage places. The evening's topical discussion will be on the extent and severity of damage to historic resources in Calgary, including heritage sites, and older buildings and neighbourhoods. Even if you aren't a heritage homeowner, we all have a stake in the heritage of our city and this discussion will be of great interest.
The panel members will also offer advice on reclaiming and restoring heritage properties. Fixing up a century home with a brick or sandstone foundation is somewhat different from mucking out the basement of a 1950s bungalow with a poured concrete foundation. Horsehair insulation and plaster walls react differently to water than do drywall and fiberglass. The panel members have years of expertise and they are willing to share.
Presenters will also cover potential sources of government aid and other help and provide advice to affected property owners.
The Roundtable will be at Fort Calgary on July 25 starting at 6:30 pm. The event is free and everyone, whether a heritage homeowner or just a person with an interest in heritage, will find this evening to be very informative. You are asked to register at the Calgary Communities website.
The evening's speakers will be:
Eileen Fletcher, Heritage Conservation Advisor, Alberta Culture: Historic Resources Management Branch;
Darryl Cariou, Senior Heritage Planner, City Wide Planning and Design, City of Calgary;
Alexandra Hatcher, Executive Director/CEO, Alberta Museums Association;
Halyna Skala Tataryn, Heritage Housing Specialist, Real Estate Representative, Sotheby's International Realty Canada.
If you are dealing with a flood-damaged historic property, the CHI website has valuable section on their forum that includes links to resources such as Canadian Conservation Institutes "Resources for Salvaging Personal Valuables" and "After the Flood" by Eileen Fletcher on the Alberta's Historic Places blog, RETROactive The Calgary Public Library has also put together a resource list for all homeowners dealing with flood damage. You can pick up a copy at your local branch or find it online here.
High River Flood, May 11, 1942
Postcards from the Past, PC 1627
25th Avenue Bridge during the floods of 1915
Postcards from the past, pc 611
It has been a trying time, hasn't it? Our beautiful rivers turned ugly on us. We knew they were fickle – we'd seen evidence of it in the past (see above) but somehow living through it and seeing the aftermath makes it different. We were particularly hard hit here at the Central Library. As I write this, we are still without power, which means our IT centre is without power, which means we have no computers. I started at the library before there were computers, when dinosaurs were still roaming the earth, but I realize I have become very reliant on the availability of online resources.
In the old days we had a Recordak machine – this would take a photo of the book card and the library card together and this would be developed as microfilm. By the time I was doing circulation we actually had a computer system in place, but there was no online card catalog – we were still using the same old card catalogue and a new, updated version on microfiche. We were unable to find out if a book was on the shelf or not. If it was there, great, if not, well...
Circulating books using a Recordak Machine, Georgina Thomson Branch, 1965
Calgary Public Library, Our Story in Pictures, CPL 105 35 08
Then we launched the S.S. OPAC (online public access catalogue). We got t-shirts and had big parties because this was a revolutionary development for us. We could find out if books were in our system, if they were checked in or signed out and we could also place holds that would be caught the instant a book was returned. It made using the library so much more convenient. For the first little while, we couldn't use the catalogue from home, but that didn't matter much, because so few of us had internet access and what we had was glacially slow. But we kept developing our technology to make life for library customers simpler and quicker.
Gerry Meek launches the S.S. Opac at Village Square, 1992
Calgary Public Library, Our Story in Pictures CPL 209-16-08
Now, we are back to square one – maybe even further back. I would have liked a Recordak machine this week. It would have been far easier than recording each transaction manually. That aside, sitting here, in the branch named for our first Head Librarian, I have come to realize that the library is still the same place that he envisioned. It is safe and welcoming. Customers have come in with needs as diverse as a place to wash their hands after mucking out basements in Elbow Park and the need to find some diversion. We have provided a place for people whose homes are still without power to charging their telephones and laptops and a place for folks just needing to see a smiling face and an indication that some things are still OK. Alexander would be proud.
Mr. Alexander Calhoun, 1912
Calgary Public Library, Our Story In Pictures CPL 103-03-01


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How do I automatically move to the next message after I delete or move an email in AOL Mail?
A quick settings change in AOL Mail will let you move to the next email after moving or deleting a message.
Here's how:
1. In the upper right, below your Username, click Options and then click Settings.
2. On the "General Settings" page, in the Reading section, make sure there's a check mark in the box next to the In full reading view, display the next message after moving or deleting the current one.
3. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click Save.
All done! Now, when you delete or move the current message you are viewing, a new one will display in its place. Sweet!
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2014 Chuck Jones Auction Painting/
I'm proud to finally reveal the painting I contributed to this year's Red Dot Auction, benefitting the Chuck Jones Center for Creativity, for whom I also built and maintain a website.
This is my third time contributing to the auction, which keeps the artist's names a secret until after the lucky buyer has purchased their painting.
This year's entry featured Daffy and Porky as the modern versions of Sherlock and Watson. It's also a reference to the classic cartoon "Deduce, You Say".
First, here's the original, digital sketch:
From there, I did a fully-colored digital version, just to figure everything out, including basic colors. This might eventually become a print in my store.
Next, I printed out the digital inks and used a little projector to transfer the art to the 12" x 12" canvas provided by the center.
And here's the finished painting. It's watercolor with inking done with brush and India ink, and Prismacolor marker for a few highlights.
Overall, I'm happy with it, but it's clear I have SO much to learn about watercolor. It just never comes out like I have in my head. Oh well.
I'll post a followup when I find out if it sold and for how much. Meanwhile, here's a quick step-by-step of the painting progress:


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Born Name: Avril Ramona Lavigne
Nick Name: Abbey, Av, Avril
Date of Birth: 27 September, 1984
Place of Birth: Belleville, Ontario, Canada
Sun Sign: Libra
Nationality: Canadian
Religion: Christian
Education: Avril was not studied much. She started singing at the age of two. She used to play guitar, piano, a drum during her childhood. When Lavigne was 14, her parents would take her to karaoke sessions. She always misbehaved in school and dropped out from her high school when she was in 11th grade. After that she entirely focus on her singing career.
Profession: Songwriter, Singer, Musician, Entrepreneur, Fashion Designer


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February 2013
Q+A with our fearless founder, Crystal Gentilello
January 2013
Refinery29 spreads the news on the launch of Rue Daily!
July 2012
The Chronicle notes Rue as a top online design destination.
July 2012
Rue founder and editor in chief, Crystal Gentilello opens her doors to Apartment Therapy.
January 2012
Rue is recognized for its steady and sustainable growth.
September 2011
A friendly little mention from USA Today.
June 2011
Curbed shares their thoughts on four online shelter magazines.
June 2011
A four-page story on the thriving online shelter magazine industry.
March 2011
Our founder and editor in chief, Crystal Gentilello is named one of Examiner's 2011 Women of the Year.
March 2011
An interview with our founder and editor in chief, Crystal Gentilello.
January 2011
Rue partners with HGTV for a lavish party down South.
September 2010
A stylish round-up of images from Rue's premiere issue.
September 2010
Apartment Therapy shares our very first cover just days before launch.
September 2011
Teaser images from our premiere issue burst onto the scene.
September 2011
Exclusive first images from Rue's premiere issue run on CasaSugar.
August 2010
ShelterPop snags the spot for Rue's first piece of press!