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G3/B3/GV* - RUSSIA/CHINA/ENERGY/GV - Russia. China agree on oil price,
Released on 2012-10-16 17:00 GMT
Email-ID | 3825270 |
Date | 2011-10-12 06:18:16 |
From | firstname.lastname@example.com |
To | email@example.com |
List-Name | firstname.lastname@example.com |
Energy links with Russia strengthened
Updated: 2011-10-12 06:55
By Li Xiaokun and Ma Liyao (China Daily)
BEIJING - China and Russia made giant strides in energy cooperation on
Tuesday by first agreeing a price for Russian oil exported through a
cross-border pipeline and then announcing the approaching "final stage" of
work on Russian gas exports to China.
Premier Wen Jiabao and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin announced
the breakthroughs after co-chairing discussions at the Great Hall of the
"The two countries agreed on crude oil prices and decided to actively push
forward cooperation on oil and gas," Wen said at a news conference after
the talks which lasted for nearly three hours.
On Jan 1 Russia started to supply China with 300,000 barrels of oil daily
via the first stage of the East Siberia-Pacific Ocean pipeline. But Russia
said China had underpaid it tens of million of dollars due to a tariff
The agreement on oil prices was matched by progress on gas.
"As for gas supplies, we are nearing the final stage of work," Putin told
A deal to supply the world's second-biggest economy with up to 68 billion
cubic meters of Russian gas annually over 30 years has been subject to
delay due to pricing disagreements.
Russian gas giant Gazprom and China National Petroleum Corporation signed
a framework agreement in 2009. However, Russia seeks around $300 per cubic
meter, similar to what European customers pay.
But China wants a price under $200 per cubic meter, similar to what it
pays for supplies from Central Asia.
Vice-Premier Wang Qishan and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Igor Sechin
discussed energy issues in detail earlier on Tuesday as they co-chaired
energy talks.
Yu Sui, a professor of Russian studies with the Beijing-based China Center
for Contemporary World Studies, said that before China and Russia strike a
balance they should refer to the international price, which has been
falling recently.
The gap has been narrowed to $50 per cubic meter, as China raised its bid
to $250.
Putin, on his first trip abroad since he announced his plan to run for the
presidency, called for compromise.
"Those who sell always want to sell at a higher price, while those who
buy, want to buy at a lower price. We need to reach a compromise which
will satisfy both sides."
Wen said that the Chinese government is willing to strive, together with
the Russians, to build a strategic partnership between the two countries.
Wen and Putin on Tuesday also witnessed the signing of nine documents,
including a deal between Russian state bank VEB and the China Development
Bank for the Chinese bank to invest $1.5 billion in building the first
stage of a 750,000-ton aluminum smelter in Taishet in Russia's Irkutsk
Oblast region. The China Investment Corp also agreed to invest $1 billion
in a joint Russia-China investment fund set up in partnership with a
Russian state-backed vehicle to promote direct investment.
China is now Russia's top trading partner, with trade volume this year
expected to exceed $80 billion, according to Putin.
Aside from the huge economic interests, many commentators and observers
also see the visit by Putin, accompanied by a 160-member delegation, as
politically significant.
Bloomberg said that the trip indicates Putin is likely to lean more on
Asia in his foreign policy and develop stronger ties with China if he
returns to the presidency in 2012.
Indian newspaper The Hindu said on Tuesday that "Russia's new emphasis on
technological cooperation with China creates both a challenge and
opportunity for India.
"The modernization pact Putin is to sign in Beijing should give India a
cue to follow in its relations with Russia," it said.
But Yu, from the research center, noted that other nations do not need to
worry about closer cooperation between Beijing and Moscow as relations
"benefit regional and world peace".
Guan Guihai, associate dean of the School of International Studies at
Peking University, said Putin's visit "should be treated as nothing
unusual under the mechanism of regular premier meetings".
Putin arrived in Beijing a day after Russia and China signed 16 economic
and trade deals worth $7.1 billion, mainly in the new energy and mining
Zhang Yunbi, Xinhua, Reuters and AFP contributed to this story.
William Hobart
Australia Mobile +61 402 506 853
On 12/10/2011 8:48 AM, Jose Mora wrote:
Putin Says Russia Near China Deal on Supplying Natural Gas
October 11, 2011, 12:12 PM EDT
Oct. 11 (Bloomberg) -- Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said Russia is
nearing an agreement with China to supply natural gas to the world's
biggest energy consumer.
"Those who sell always want to sell at a higher price, while those who
buy want to buy at a lower price," Putin said today at the start of a
meeting with Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao in Beijing. "We need to
reach a compromise that will satisfy both sides."
The Russian premier, who is making his first foreign trip since
announcing plans to return to the presidency next year, is seeking to
overcome a stalemate in talks on natural gas deliveries to China.
Russia, the world's largest energy exporter, has delayed plans to build
gas pipelines to the Asian country for more than a decade because of
wrangling over how much China will pay for the fuel.
Russian gas export monopoly OAO Gazprom plans to ship Siberian gas from
as early as 2015, with total annual deliveries to reach 68 billion cubic
meters, more than 60 percent of China's 2010 consumption, according to
BP Plc's Statistical Review of World Energy.
China bypassed Germany as Russia's biggest trade partner last year and
annual turnover may exceed $70 billion in 2011 and reach $200 billion in
2020, from $59 billion in 2010, Putin said today.
`Unprecedented Levels'
The Russian prime minister, who will also meet Chinese President Hu
Jintao during his two-day trip to Beijing, said the nations have reached
"unprecedented levels of cooperation" in the political sphere.
Russia shares a determination with its neighbor to counter U.S. global
influence, signaled by them teaming up on Oct. 4 to veto a
Western-backed United Nations resolution targeted at the crackdown on
protests in Syria, a Soviet-era ally of Russia.
Putin, who will take full control of foreign policy again next May after
four years marked by improving ties with the U.S. under outgoing
President Dmitry Medvedev, may give Asia more weight in Russian foreign
policy when he returns to the presidency.
"In the 1990s, Russia focused on the West while leaving Asia behind,
which was a mistake," said Dmitry Mosyakov, head of the Southeast Asia,
Australia and Oceania Center of the Moscow-based Institute of Far East
Studies. "Now we see Russia turning to the East for new markets, new
partners and capital."
Gas Deal
The gas deal has been held up because China has pushed for lower rates
similar to those charged on its domestic energy market while Russia
wants to get a price closer to that paid by European customers.
The countries made "progress" in their talks on gas shipments, Deputy
Prime Minister Igor Sechin told reporters in Beijing today, declining to
elaborate. China is a "very important partner" and potentially "one of
the biggest consumers" of gas, he said.
China will approach negotiations with "utmost sincerity" and cooperation
in the gas industry is "one of the most important aspects" of bilateral
energy ties, the official Xinhua News Agency cited Chinese Vice Premier
Wang Qishan as saying in Beijing today.
Xinhua said Wang expressed "strong confidence" about the success of the
talks. Gazprom Deputy Chief Executive Officer Alexander Medvedev said
last month that negotiations may be concluded by year-end.
`Price Issue'
"It's a price issue. It's just negotiations, I believe in the end we
will see an agreement reached, since both parties are interested in a
deal," Alexander Morozov, chief economist for Russia at HSBC Holdings
Plc, said in an interview with Bloomberg Television today.
Russia, which supplies 25 percent of the European Union's gas, is under
pressure to cut its European pricing formulas. Gazprom's contracts are
the focus of a European antitrust investigator's raids across central
and eastern Europe.
"If the China contract is soon agreed, then the Kremlin's negotiating
position in Europe will be improved, that is if you don't want more of
our gas, then we have a customer with a big appetite in the east," said
Chris Weafer, chief strategist at Troika Dialog, Russia's oldest
investment bank.
Russia, which is also seeking to diversify trade with China away from
natural resources and weapons, reached an agreement today that the two
countries will each invest $1 billion into a Russian private equity
`Investment Potential'
"Only four months after we were set up, we have shown that investors
want to put money in Russia, and believe in Russia's investment
potential," Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund,
said by phone from Beijing.
Russia set up the fund in June to lure foreign capital by co-financing
international investment amid efforts to deepen capital markets and wean
the economy off its dependence on oil and gas exports. Energy accounts
for more than half of its exports to China, Yury Ushakov, Putin's deputy
chief of staff, told reporters in Moscow yesterday.
"China has become our first trade partner, bypassing Germany, and this
is quite symbolic," Ushakov said. "The task for the visit is not only to
expand trade and economic contacts but also to diversify the structure
of our relations as the structure itself does not satisfy us."
Agriculture, Communications
In China, Putin was joined by Agriculture Minister Elena Skrynnik and
Communications Minister Igor Shchegolev. Also attending are Sergei
Kiriyenko, head of Russia's state-owned nuclear energy holding company
Rosatom Corp., and Vladimir Dmitriev, chairman of VEB, Russia's state
development bank.
A total of 17 agreements may be reached during Putin's visit including a
cooperation accord between ZAO Sibur Holding, eastern Europe's biggest
petrochemical producer, and China Petrochemical Corp., the nation's
biggest refiner, according to Ushakov.
Following the "reset" in relations with America spearheaded by President
Barack Obama and Medvedev, Putin is now seeking to re-balance foreign
policy, said Alexander Rahr, a Russia expert at the German Council on
Foreign Relations.
"There is a huge neighbor and everyone is talking about China's might,"
Rahr said. "For Russia it is more important than for Europeans to
understand where China is heading and how you can build relations."
--Ilya Arkhipov, Henry Meyer and Lyubov Pronina, with assistance from
Michael Forsythe in Beijing and Denis Maternovsky in Moscow. Editors:
Paul Abelsky, Balazs Penz, Eddie Buckle.
To contact the reporters on this story: Ilya Arkhipov in Beijing at
firstname.lastname@example.com Michael Forsythe in Beijing at
To contact the editors responsible for this story: Balazs Penz at
firstname.lastname@example.com. Peter Hirschberg at email@example.com


text:
Revealing disparities, advancing children's rights.
UNICEF has learned through experience that problems that go unmeasured often go unsolved. We believe that consistent, credible data about children's situations are critical to the improvement of their lives – and indispensable to realizing the rights of every child.
Data continue to support advocacy and action on behalf of the world's 2.2 billion children, providing governments with facts on which to base decisions and actions to improve children's lives. And new ways of collecting and using data will help target investments and interventions to reach the most vulnerable children.
Data do not, of themselves, change the world. They make change possible – by identifying needs, supporting advocacy, and gauging progress.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
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text:
Cars > Bandit81's Garage
About Bandit81's Garage
About me and my passion for cars
I'm a 3rd generation "Grease Monkey" notice I used this term instead of "Auto Technician". I don't diagnose codes and replace parts on an automobile, I work on cars. American, rear wheel drive, full frame, V8 powered cars. My passion for cars runs deep, it's what I was brought up on, it's what I love. I bleed anti-freeze and to me nothing sounds better than a V8 singing the tune my right foot tells it to.
My first car
My first car was a 1984 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. Black with a Maroon interior with factory wheels that I replace with an old set of Ansen mags. It was the base model Monte with a V6.
Car I wish I still had
Back in High School I owned a solid black '85 Chevrolet El Camino, all stripped down "Plain Jane" style, no moldings etc. Came with the 305 H.O. engine, wicked looking mag wheels. It was just so cool cuz most people at my school had never laid eyes on an "ELK" before. I even took it to prom and got more looks than people driving new (at that time 2001) cars.
My dream car
I have 2:
No. 1: 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS with the LS6 454 engine. Red with black racing stripes, 4 speed, tinted windows and the loudest set of pipes you can find.
No. 2: 1973 Super Duty 455 Trans Am.
- Type of racing: Drag Racing, Late Model Dirt, Nascar
- Driver: Dale Earnhardt Sr.
- Driving song: "Fuel" by Metallica
- Car movie: Smokey and the Bandit
- Car magazine: High Performance Pontiac
- Car game: Need For Speed: Pro Street
— Profile last updated: Nov 14, 2008
Bandit81's Groups 1 – 2 of 2
Enthusiast Groups
G-Body Nuts Enthusiast
Just a close group of friends with the same passion for the 1978-1988 A/G Bodies of General Motors. The Monte Carlo, Malibu, El Camino, Cutlass, Grand Prix, and all variations of the Regal supply ample Luxury, Performance, and Style. Come join us.
IN, United States
The Bandit Run Enthusiast
Save this URL into your Favorites: " www.TheBanditRun.com " Call or email anytime 402.465.5756 or email@example.com For 2014 Event details please go to www.TheBanditRun.com for regular updates. Full route details are posted during the registration process. Also all the Hotel...
Nebraska, United States
Club Groups
Monte Millennium... Club
We cater to all generations of Chevrolet Monte Carlo's, from 1970's to present. All Monte Carlo's are welcome! We are here to bring Monte Carlo owners and enthusiasts together worldwide. If you own a Monte Carlo, we want to see you and allow you to show others your car. Regardless if your Monte...
Michigan, United States
Bandit81's Garage Comments 1 – 3 of 4
Log in to post comments.
Read comments on Bandit81's garage (4)
- Jan 8, 2009 at 11:00 pm
- Your dream car 1973 455 SD
mine too! check it out at www.firebirdconcept.com
- Jul 16, 2007 at 3:54 pm
- Nice rides man love the Trans am
- May 1, 2007 at 3:02 am
- You have some smoking rides!!
Cars > Bandit81's Garage


text:
Visitation will be from noon-1 p.m. Saturday, February 2, 2013, at Ray Funeral Home.
Graveside Services will begin at 2 p.m. Saturday, February 2, 2013, at Greenlawn Cemetery with Danny Holman officiating.
Mrs. Wilson was born March 5, 1929, in Melbourne, Fla. In 1949, she married Charles Jackson Wilson. She loved her family and was greatly family oriented. She always made sure she was there for anyone who needed her and enjoyed art and music.
Mrs. Wilson is preceded in death by her parents, Leon Sims and Flossie Adelia Reid Sims; and husband, Charles Jackson Wilson.
She is survived by sons, Charles Rhodes Wilson (Cynthia) of Plumerville, Ark., Malcolm Wesley Wilson (Allison) of Oxford, and Patrick Andrew Wilson (Kimberely) of Plumerville, Ark.; daughter, Adelia Reid Wilson Baker (John David) of Conway, Ark.; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and brother, Bobby Leon Sims (Jaqualine) of Murfreesboro, Tenn.
Memorials may be made to Southern Christian Home.
To view and sign the online guestbook, go to www.rayfuneralhome.net


text:
Call Us: 1-800-280-0307 Chat
American College of Education delivers affordable online degree programs for working teachers, educators and professionals who desire to expand their knowledge.
At American College of Education, we provide an exceptional online learning experience for graduate students, offering numerous programs specifically tailored to education.
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American College of Education has collaborated with mathematics expert John Woodward, Ph.D., to develop a graduate-level mathematics teaching concentration. The research-based coursework provides educators with the knowledge and skills to adapt teaching and curriculum to the Common Core State Standards in mathematics for grades K-6.
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The Capstone Experience is designed for candidates to demonstrate and document the impact of their knowledge and competencies gained throughout and as a result of the Curriculum and Instruction program.
This course prepares students to implement a school-wide leadership initiative to improve a comprehensive range of literacy skills. Specific principles and theories of reading instruction are evaluated in relation to currently employed practice so teachers can immediately strengthen instruction. Students examine the scientific research base underlying different models of reading instruction. Special attention is given to curriculum mapping, alignment, and the development of an implementation plan to strengthen literacy.
During this course, educators will investigate the philosophy guiding the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics for grades K-6 and learn how to balance instruction about problem-solving procedures with instruction targeting core math understanding. Educators will investigate and implement strategies to improve student performance in generalizing analogous problems, representing problems coherently, justifying conclusions, applying math to practical situations, using technology mindfully, explaining their steps accurately to other students, and synthesizing patterns or finding shortcuts. Educators will focus on standards related to numbers and number systems, operations, algebraic thinking, and fractions. Tasks will include analysis of current teaching practices, crosswalks of standards, and development of original instructional units aligned with the standards and utilizing evidence-based practices.
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Tiffany Hamlett has a background in early childhood development and education with an emphasis on developmentally appropriate practice. She has served as a mentor to student teachers and supervised field experience in lab and classroom settings. Her publications include the subjects of analyzing aggression in television programs for preschoolers, caregivers' roles in the development of babies' brains, and cross-gendered play in preschool. Dr. Hamlett holds a Ph.D. from Texas Woman's University.
Mamzelle V. S. Adolphine has worked as a teacher and a trainer at the elementary school level. She joined the faculty of American College of Education in 2010 as a professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction. She received her Ph.D. from Capella University and is a New York University Honors Scholar and a returned Peace Corps Volunteer who served in Mauritania, West Africa. She is very involved in her community and facilitates an ASTDEdge Restructuring Schools group. She enjoys hiking and cycling.
George Ash holds an Ed.D. from Walden University and has taught in the prison system to adult learners, traditional K-12 students, and graduate students. He has served as an administrator for over eight years in various roles including superintendent. His research interests include rural education, opportunity analysis, and mathematics. As a speaker and writer, his areas of expertise include leadership in educational administration and school finance.
Karen E. Austin currently serves as an assistant principal with Chicago Public Schools and faculty member of American College of Education. Dr. Austin's research interests include the effects of positive behavioral support and teacher and leadership effectiveness on student achievement. Dr. Austin is most proud of her work focusing on appropriate practices for students with disabilities. She enjoys serving the community through her sorority and traveling the world. She received her Ed.D. from Argosy-Chicago, her M.A. from National-Louis University and her B.A. from Chicago State University.
Sarah Becerra received her Ph.D. from Texas Woman's University and published her dissertation, entitled "Death of a Parent in Childhood and Resilience in Adulthood." She also earned her M.A. in Family Therapy from TWU and holds a B.A. in Psychology from University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. An advocate of online teaching, Dr. Becerra is also a licensed marriage and family therapist who provides mental health and substance abuse assessments for hospitals. She enjoys playing the guitar.
Ellen Brewer holds an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction/Curriculum Development from Nova Southeastern University, an M.A. in Secondary English Education, and a B.S. in Secondary Education from the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. She is certified in educational leadership and library information services from Jacksonville State University. Dr. Brewer has taught English, college composition and literature courses in grades 5-12, and secondary education courses in ELA teaching methodologies. She works as a literacy coach in grades 9-12, was twice selected as a teacher-fellow with the National Writing Project and currently serves on the JSU Writing Project Advisory Board.
Bridgette Davis earned a Ph.D. in Secondary Education with an emphasis in literacy and science from Southern Mississippi University. As a former 7th and 8th grade science teacher, Dr. Davis developed a passion for preparing teachers to reach middle and high school students. She is committed to high expectations with purposeful literacy integration to meet the needs of culturally diverse students while making meaningful instructional connections to real-life applications. Her research interests include adolescent literacy and STEM integration into content areas across the secondary school curriculum, developing low-cost tools to teach science, e-learning, authentic assessments, and classroom climate. Dr. Davis is a world traveler.
Rita Deyoe-Chiullán earned her bachelor's degree from Kansas State University where she was the first exchange ESL instructor to a university in Colombia. She later taught ESL/linguistics in universities and a bi-national British/Colombian school. Returning to KSU for both her M.A. and her Ph.D., she taught English for International Students, returning to Colombia to teach ESL and prepare ESL teachers. She was KSU's first Title VII USOE Bilingual/Multicultural doctoral fellow, earning a degree in Curriculum & Instruction (Bilingual/Multicultural). Dr. Deyoe-Chiullán taught bilingual/ESL teachers and administrators and was an alternative certification bilingual specialist at Dallas ISD. Currently, she teaches bilingual/ESL education courses at American College of Education.
Deborah Gilbert was a South Carolina State Department of Education Curriculum Specialist for many years. She is a National Board Certified Teacher in ELA and has developed many workshops and seminars involving professional learning communities, curriculum mapping and unwrapping standards, teacher as leader, program evaluation, and using data to drive school decisions. Dr. Gilbert has taught middle school and high school English and Spanish, college business communications, online leadership, curriculum, and doctoral education courses for several schools. She holds an Ed.D. in Education Leadership from Nova Southeastern, an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Technology from the University of Phoenix, and a bachelor's degree in Spanish literature from SUNY Oswego. In addition to serving on the faculty at American College of Education, she is exploring the use of virtual schools for K-12.
Rebecca Good has been a teacher, campus administrator, central office administrator, school superintendent, and graduate-level university professor in both Educational Administration and Bilingual/ESL courses. She has published journal articles and books on current educational topics and has expertise in helping assistant principals become stronger instructional leaders before becoming principals. She began presenting at national, state, and local conferences in 1994 and has made more than a thousand presentations on a variety of educational topics. Dr. Good's current interest is in early childhood, since she now has a toddler granddaughter who can easily operate an iPad.
Therese Kanai has been involved in the field of education for more than 20 years. After graduating from the University of Hawaii, she moved to Kailua-Kona and worked as a substitute teacher. After discovering her passion for teaching and children, she attended UH Hilo and earned her secondary teaching certification in mathematics. Subsequently, she received her M.A. in Education from Heritage College and earned a Ph.D. in Education from Walden University.
Katrina Landa has been in education for more than a decade, teaching elementary and high school and supervising adult education programs. She received her master's degree in Early Childhood Education and ESOL from the University of Miami and her Doctorate in Special Education (with a minor in Educational Leadership) from Florida International University. Dr. Landa loves to travel and spend time with her family.
David Mapp, Jr., is a social studies instructor in Pinellas County, Florida. Dr. Mapp, colloquially called "Dr. M," was a 2008 Teacher of the Year Award recipient in the category of Creativity and Innovation. He frequently makes presentations at conferences on technology and PowerPoint use in the classroom. With roots in the Caribbean island of St. Croix, he is an advocate for ESOL students. He holds an Ed.D. from Argosy University in Instructional Leadership and is certified in Educational Leadership and K-12 Social Science.
Marsha Moore has been an educator for 20 years. She earned an undergraduate degree from Georgia State University in Early Childhood Education, a master's degree in Child Development, and a doctorate degree in Child Development and Education from Texas Woman's University. Her research interests include constructivist teacher training/staff development, child guidance, play and diversity. Dr. Moore has four young children who influence her growth as a teacher and as a person. She enjoys running and reading Mental Floss magazine.
Joyce Myers, a graduate of the University of North Texas with an Ed.D. in Early Childhood Education, also studied at Mercer University, Dallas Baptist University, and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Currently she teaches university courses in early childhood and elementary education. She is a former elementary school principal and classroom teacher, and she is also the author of an instructor's manual for a textbook on early childhood education. She and her family lived in countries outside the U.S. for more than 10 years.
Jose Arturo Puga is currently a vice principal at Stillman Middle School in Brownsville, Texas, and a retired U.S. Army officer. His career in education, which spans nearly two decades, includes experience as a bilingual elementary teacher, guidance counselor and administrator at the elementary, middle school, and high school levels. Dr. Puga was awarded the Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Bilingual Education at Texas A&M - Kingsville. He has earned a bachelor's degree in Spanish Literature, master's degree in Guidance and Counseling from the University of Texas System and most recently a master's degree in Sociology from Texas Tech University.
Denita B. Scott, Ed.D. has served as an educator for 24 years. Her current role is Assistant Superintendent of Student Learning and Programs for Dolton School District 149. Previously, she was a Director of Student Learning and Assistant Principal for an elementary and middle school, a reading coach, a Title I teacher, a Reading Recovery teacher, and a classroom teacher. Throughout her tenure in Dolton School District 149, Dr. Scott has displayed a strong passion for improvement of student achievement and has advocated for children's success. During the summer of 2011, she chaired a committee to update the reading and math curriculum and established the district's Curriculum Planning Council.
Dr. Scott has earned a bachelor's degree and a master's degree with a concentration in reading from Governors State University in University Park, Illinois, and a doctorate in educational leadership from Roosevelt University in Chicago. Dr. Scott has served as an adjunct professor at Chicago State University in Chicago for three years and taught Foundations of Reading and Content Area Reading for Middle School. She was a presenter for the Illinois Principals Association and the Superintendents Commission for the Study of Demographics and Diversity Conference. In addition, she is a member of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, the Illinois Principals Association, International Reading Association, Illinois Reading Council, South Suburban Reading Council, and the Data for School Innovation Advisory Board (DSI).
Rosita Tormala-Nita began her career in higher education about 15 years ago in the interdisciplinary field of International Studies and Business Administration. Her international projects focused on improving language policies to expand access to higher learning and use technology to create world-wide classrooms. As Dr. Tormala-Nita studied the role of higher learning in creating access and the importance of scientific philanthropy, her career moved toward research administration. In 2003, she earned a Ph.D. in educational policy studies from Marquette University and served as an educational foundations faculty member at a public R1 university. As her interest in the work of educators grew, she spent time in schools as a substitute teacher and completed an additional master's degree in secondary education. In the last five years, she has fully transitioned into the field of education. In 2010, she joined the American College of Education faculty. In teaching for ACE, she realized her goal of working for a single-purpose institution within the concept of world-wide classrooms. Dr. Tormala-Nita is now a core faculty member. Her areas of research interest include helping educators worldwide find solutions to educational issues through action research. In her free time, she enjoys activities with her family as well as running 5K/10K and half-marathons.
Deborah VanOurkerk is a veteran educator with more than 35 years of K-8 teaching experience. Presently, she is the Science Department Chair at a middle school. She is a Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) certified teacher and her site's district representative. She is a member of a school site team that analyzes and determines the appropriateness of proposed curriculum. She holds an Ed.D. from Fielding Graduate University, Santa Barbara.
Gordon Vessels taught in public schools for several years in addition to being a teaching assistant for undergraduate education students at the University of Georgia. He completed degree programs in Education, Sociology, and School Psychology as well as a leadership-training program at Georgia State University. He worked 25 years as a school psychologist in urban, rural, and suburban schools. His doctoral dissertation was on nonbiased assessment. He authored and directed U.S. DOE grant projects in multiple schools and published a book in 1998, entitled Character and Community Development.
Rebecca Wiehe has been a Spanish teacher for 18 years and has taught at levels ranging from preschool to university. She currently teaches at the high school level. Her undergraduate degrees are in Spanish and Spanish Education from Miami University (Ohio). She holds a master's degree in Spanish from the University of Cincinnati, and a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Kent State University. Dr. Wiehe has worked extensively with both student teachers and veteran teachers as they continue their professional development.
2014 total program cost: $8,364. For more information, visit the tuition section.
(3 semester credits each unless noted otherwise)
These Course to be taken at the beginning of program
Classes to be taken during remaining terms (order based on availability)
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Full Featured Strollers
While Maclaren's lightweight strollers are made for children ages six months and up, our full-featured strollers are suitable from birth and deliver superior performance and sporty style to parents looking for a combination of both. They also come stocked with new and innovative features that put the strollers on the cutting-edge of comfort and safety. Maclaren offers three different designs to choose from.
There are also a number of designer, full-featured baby strollers with unique and fashion-forward designs, as well as a number of popular Exclusive StyleSets available with full-featured strollers. This ensures that Maclaren's strollers are excellent choices no matter what the parents' priorities are when they go looking. Remember, safety is most important to Maclaren and all of our strollers come equipped with the latest safety features and are innovatively designed to ensure the baby stays safe and comfortable while he or she enjoys the ride.


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stingray diamond studs
by COLLETTE ISHIYAMA
Collette Ishiyama is a jewelry designer based in NYC's East Village. After studying painting at Pratt, Ishiyama realized her aspirations spanned beyond the two dimensional. Her love of creating dioramas and miniatures propelled her to try her hand at creating jewelry. Soon she was apprenticing for leading jewelers in New York and had found her niche.
Collette Ishiyama's debut collection, "Emerald City," is influenced by Egyptian jewelery, samurai warriors and the omnipresent sliver of the Chrysler building. Each piece is an arcane world of its own, lined with shimmering black stingray leather. Each model is meticulously carved by Ishiyama and cast in Manhattan.
Men's Size Chart
Product Details
Gold tone brass studs with shimmering stingray leather detail.
• sterling silver posts and clutch backs
• approx. 11mm long by 9mm wide
• handmade in NYC


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Okay, what about the guy who hanged himself in the tree and walkers came along and ate his feet and legs turning him into a walker? Do we assume he botched his hanging and he was still alive? Possible but not likely.
This damn show. I have too many questions for them to take a hiatus until February!!!!


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We loved this deal too, but it's no longer available. Check out our other fresh deals here.
Pacific Pearl - Sydney to Auckland or Auckland to Sydney
Starting from $898 for a Four-Night Cruise incl. Meals, Entertainment & Activities Onboard Pacific Pearl from Sydney to Auckland - Upgrades Available (value up to $3,236)
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- Holidays don't get much more cruisy than this.
- Grab a four-night cruise for two people in an inside cabin onboard P&O Cruises Pacific Pearl from Sydney to Auckland including main meals, entertainment and activities from Mondo Travel for only $898.
- Get this deal for four people (sharing a cabin) for only $1,195.
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Grab up to 53% off a four-night cruise from Sydney to Auckland including main meals, entertainment and activities onboard P&O Cruises Pacific Pearl. Cruise departs Sydney Monday, 15 April 2013 (only one departure date available). Choose from these options:
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Get cruising on P&O Cruises Pacific Pearl from Sydney to Auckland and enjoy a few days at sea - it's good for the soul. No dishes, no stress, no traffic and no worries; just take advantage of each and every moment onboard and let your ship become your home away from home, only better.
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In the evening the Atrium transforms into a three-storey entertainment venue showcasing events like the ViZion Laser Light Show and The Orient pub is a great place to enjoy pre-dinner drinks. Here you'll find an impressive selection of cocktails and boutique beers on the menu, and the venue is beautifully furnished with chesterfield lounges, wingback chairs, and pub stools, recalling the historic Orient Line. For some pampering, head to Aqua HealthSpaFitness*, which offers a range of treatments including facials, body scrubs and acupuncture, as well as medi-spa treatments like teeth whitening.
On deck Pacific Cirque entertains with amazing acrobatic shows. On the big screen you can play outdoor bingo, watch recent release movies and TV shows or take part in Playstaion and Wii tournaments. For a totally different experience, wade over to the swim up bar on top deck. Cheers to that!
*Charges apply.
Note: Inside cabins are located in the interior of the ship and have no windows. Outside cabins have windows as pictured above (that do not open). They may have obstructed views.
Pacific Pearl - Sydney to Auckland or Auckland to Sydney
0800 955 655
Business in trade
Valid from Nov 15, 2012Expires Nov 16, 2012
BOOKINGS MUST BE MADE BY FRIDAY 16th NOVEMBER 2012. Bookings essential. Subject to availability. Refund from GrabOne available within 48 hours of purchase if cabins are no longer available at time of booking. Valid for new bookings only between 9-16 Nov 2012 or until sold out (whichever comes first). Prices are cruise only in New Zealand dollars and based on twin or quad share in an Inside or outside cabin as specified and inclusive of discounts, charges and taxes (which are subject to change). Prices are correct at the time of publication and can be withdrawn or varied without notice. Only valid on the 15 April 2013 Pacific Pearl four-night cruise from Sydney to Auckland – cruise number P313. Airfares and transfers are not included and are an additional cost. We reserve the right to correct any errors or omissions. Once this offer ends, fares may revert to a higher fare but also may be further discounted. Offers subject to availability. Supplements apply for other cabin categories. Outside cabins may have obstructed views. Deposit and full payment conditions, amendment and cancellation fees apply. To be read in conjunction with the booking and passage conditions which passengers will be bound by. These are available at www.pocruises.co.nz or your Mondo Travel Specialist.
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GrabOne FaceValue gives you another three months after your coupons expire, making it even easier to enjoy businesses all over New Zealand.
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- A coupon is valid up until and including the expiry date printed on the coupon.
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For example, if you spend $50 on a $100 dining voucher but don't use it before the expiry date, you will still be entitled to $50 worth of food and beverage services at that business for an additional three months.
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UK military healthcare worker admitted to Royal Free for ebola checks
A British military healthcare worker has been brought back to England for Ebola monitoring after suffering a needle-stick injury while treating a person in Sierra Leone.
I fear for my life, says ex-wife of property tycoon Scot Young, who died in fall from flat
The ex-wife of property tycoon Scot Young, who died falling from his fourth floor London flat, has said she fears for her life and that she believes her husband may have been murdered.
Man jailed for sex assault on boy in McDonald's bathroom
A pensioner who sexually assaulted a six-year-old boy in a branch of McDonald's has been jailed.
Check out our Louis Vuitton shoot
Sunday 01 February
Ruffling feathers
Coat with belt, POA


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DIS Veteran
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Tennessee
Posts: 15,024
Taking notes with a Disney pen is one way to help get through a boring afternoon faculty meeting.
So Much to Celebrate http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=3066162
I Don't Know, I Don't Speak Wind http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2962147 All I want for Christmas http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2860915 Mingos in da Watah! http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2758143 Geen Yight: She's Out of Sight! http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2677011 My Name is NOT Broccoli www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2611094 From Pop to the Top www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2495977 Mother, May I? Yes, You May www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2448482 Ringing in 2010 www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2356794 Brooklynn Takes Bella to Meet Cinderella www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2209387 A Two Short, Too Different Spring Break Trip www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2122295 Over the river and through the FUN! http://www.disboards.com/showthread....1#post29060069 A Ten Day Ride on a Magic Camel www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1869591 Baby and the Tramp...and a Pop Half Century www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1470678 We've stayed at Pop Century, All Star Sports, All Star Movies, All Star Music, French Quarter, Wilderness Lodge, Animal Kingdom Lodge, Art of Animation, Beach Club, Vero Beach, Kidani Village and Saratoga Springs - many trips, and many wonderful, magical memories made. |
DIS Veteran
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: sunny Florida, again ;)
Posts: 1,253
Hey getting caught up on your report. I'm trying to jump back into the DIS full force.
You look gorgeous in your wedding pictures. You guys are such a cute couple and I look forward to reading your first experience to the World as a married couple. I don't mind hearing your background story, in fact I enjoy it. Thanks for sharing it with us. I love your invitations and the centerpieces look amazing! Great reception favors. I wish I was more crafty with DIY stuff. I may just have to ask you for advice or hire you when ever my time comes. Your vows are so sweet. The pictures from you wedding ceremony photo session are beautiful! You made me LOL when you said your "hand looked like a claw or something". Your reception looked like a lot of fun! I loved reading all your details of your wedding. I hope one day I get to share my details with you Stores close early in my area too. I'm use to everything being open really late. Yea I could imagine the anticipation of a delayed flight to Florida (Disney) would make me feel like I'll never get there. LOL about your tweet about the weather. I'm a fan of Diners, Drive-Ins and Drives too. I like your gate number, it's the year I was born I eat ketchup on eggs too. AH! Your first meal in Florida was Chick-fil-a, that's ALWAYS my first meal when I go back home. I'm excited that they'll be opening one up 20 minutes (on the freeway)from my house. The Art of Animation Sign is one of my favorites. I told my dad I wanted something with it on it. I'm the same way, I don't like when my arms touch the shower curtain either. Love the tour of the AKL room. I remember seeing pictures of your green curry shrimp. oh goodness, did that look good. WELL I TH INK I remember, because I thought i saw a picture of the actual dish but maybe I'm dreaming. S/N - seeing how long your hair was, made me want to stop and straighten my hair. I wish my hair was that long but it comes just below my shoulder blades when straight. Those ribs and onion rings look DELISH and your description made my mouth water. Thanks for posting the videos of Flights of Wonder, I've never seen the show before. When we ride Dinosaur, my DBF always laughs at me because I look extremely terrified of the dino when they take your picture. That part ALWAYS gets me. LOL. Sorry to hear you didn't enjoy your meal at Yak & Yeti more. I'd be willing to try the beet and goat cheese salad at least once. 10 updates left after this one, I'm so tired but I need to go to bed because I have work in the morning. Friday evening, I thought I could get all caught up tonight but that didn't happen :/ makes me sad I didn't care for the weather changes in the ride Living with the Land either. Sorry to hear that you may be allergic to pineapple. My sister found out recently she was allergic to peanut butter and supposedly chocolate - she said she wouldn't mind giving up pb but not the chocolate. It's been such a while since I rode figment. Loved the tour of vision House. Aww, Go the Distance has such a special meaning for you two. Now whenever I hear it, I'll think of you two. There's so many things I would love to purchase to Disney up our home, but I can't because I'm the only one that loves it that much. I would definitely purchase Disney pens though cause those would be just for me. And with that I am all caught up, it only took me a week or so.
http://dancinprincess.tumblr.com/ I'm in love
A few day trips as a child. A day trip in Jan 06 to meet my dad's (then) fiancee. Serveral day trips as a CM Aug 06-May 08.Most memorable. 1st date w/boyfriend (then co-worker/friend) on Oct 9, 2007 . Surprise breakfast at Ohana's, then day at Epcot w/friends on bday.April 11, 2008 for Aunt's bdayA few day trips with DIS MEETS when I moved back in 2010.1st time staying on property 12/24/10-01/01/11 at Coranado Springs |
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Sometimes I'd rather live in VMK than in real life!
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: New York
Posts: 3,473
Married life is definitely what we wanted it to be. I absolutely love that we get to see each other each morning and each night after work. No more waiting until Saturday and Sunday only to see each other! I would absolutely love to stay at AKL again for a future anniversary trip. So many wonderful memories of a quiet and peaceful resort with wonderful restaurants! Quote:
I'm guessing it was an autocorrect that made your comment say Gotham resort? Haha, I'm thinking about Batman now. It's not too bad of a walk, but if it was something we had to do often, we'd definitely a hop a shuttle if it was there as an option. The resorts are actually really close to each other. They both look at the same savanna, but the walking part has to go around the outside of the resorts at the front. Haha, don't know if that makes any sense! I didn't realize just how close they were until we were out and about in Jambo and looked out a window and saw exactly where Sanaa was! Too bad there's no walkway that goes THROUGH the savanna! Yup, it's Raglan Road! We didn't have the greatest experience there, so that's why I wasn't as eager to write about the meal. It's finally written now though, and I'll post it after comments. Quote:
MCO was awesome! It just feels so much more cheerful. Plus, they have so many food options to choose from, which we appreciated. Definitely a better choice than our local airports! Quote:
I definitely would love to do a field trip to a park! Even as a teacher, I would love to show them certain things and teach them certain things. But they looked like it was more of a fun trip, like the way we'd go to Six Flags at the end of the year without any educational reason. Quote:
Oh wow, I'm so glad you're okay after the accident where the vehicle rolled. I don't know how I'd feel about driving after that. God definitely helped me through this fear because I drove again just 3 days after this past accident. I thought I wouldn't be able to, and I spent a lot of that time in between crying to Howard wondering why I had to be in another accident when I already hate driving in the first place. But He was definitely with me throughout this craziness. Haha, I guess I do that too! I click and unclick the Expo marker caps or I swing my lesson plans by holding on to the part that has the holes punched in. My kids know when I'm in a good mood because I do those things when I'm happy! I wish I could teach for an online school now instead. I could definitely handle that better than teaching in a traditional school with my health issues. I will definitely do a TR for our Christmas trip AND for our April 2012 trip. I actually took notes for parts of those trips, so I'll be able to remember a lot more for those. I personally didn't enjoy going during Christmas, but a lot of that had to do with being exhausted with the school year to begin with and then going on a trip that would also require a lot of energy. Then I ended up getting sick for the last few days, so the memories of that trip are just not as good as every other trip we've gone on together. I know some people who LOVE the Christmas season though! I'm just not one of them. I like that we did go once though. Quote:
I think eating the food at the wedding in the bridal suite was one of my favorite moments. I just wanted to relax and be with friends and not have the stress of being "on-stage" in front of everyone. Quote:
I can't rave enough about Sanaa! I know that a few others have wanted to try it based on my recommendation too. I hope it lives up to the hype I've given it! It just really fits what Howard and I like ... adventurous but not TOO adventurous. Glad you enjoy the videos too! I like reliving those aspects a lot because it can transport you back to the moments more than the pictures can sometimes. I hope to one day have an actual video camera to use since my digital camera gets hot when it's left on too long and it only has a 10 minute limit for videos. Quote:
Yeah, our photographers were so patient even when we weren't! I'm so glad they were still able to get good shots despite everyone pushing in. I'm just super glad that it's over; I am not an in-the-spotlight kind of person unless it's performing for a play when all the lines are planned out and memorized already! The tea ceremony was definitely for them. I still don't quite understand the purpose except that I know it's a form of respect. They literally take the smallest sip of the tea just for the ritual. It was just bad because it was like, uh, who are all you people? Haha, I've never met these relatives before! Quote:
Haha, we run to the buses when we have to commute in NYC so it's only normal that we'd have to run to catch it in WDW too! Of course, the majority of the WDW bus drivers are a LOT nicer than those in NYC. We will definitely have to get more magnets. The few we have aren't enough to hold up the coupons and such that we have. Good reason to get more! Quote:
Always the Weird to my Ninja
Weird and Ninja Shout Out to You (Jan '15 TR in progress) // Mr. and Mrs. Weak Sauce Go the Distance (May '12 Disneymoon TR) // Delicious Indeed! (Feb '11 TR) // Saving Dole Whip Float Money (Feb '11 PTR) // Weird and Ninjas Pre-Disneymoon (April '10 TR) // It's Better Than Stuffed Mezzaluna with Sausage! (April '10 PTR) // A DISer's Trip of Firsts! (Feb '08 TR) // The Flat Adventures of Weird and Ninja! (Living the Life Outside of VMK) BLOG / INSTAGRAM / TWITTER - Msg me here if you want to follow |
Sometimes I'd rather live in VMK than in real life!
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: New York
Posts: 3,473
Raglan Road
(I finally switched over to Flickr since Photobucket was being annoying, so that's why the pictures have gone back to the "normal" size that I usually like using.) Arriving at DTD early gave us a little bit of time to peek into the shops, but soon we wanted to make our way to our restaurant for the night: Raglan Road! There were a few things that I really wanted to try after reading so many reviews on DIS and examining the menu on AllEars. It was a little crowded in that area with people that didn't necessarily look like they were on vacation. I guess if you're planning on doing late night shmoozing after work when you live in Florida, it'd make sense to head over to DTD. I wouldn't mind that. I can shmooze with the best of 'em at Wolfgang Puck Express or Earl of Sandwich! We got a pager to wait for our table and then decided to look around the gift shop. There really wasn't much to see because it was just a lot of Ireland stuff. Plus, they had many things imported from Ireland, so it was super expensive! These little sheep things were the only things I really liked. They decorated the shop really nicely though, I have to say. I am always intrigued by books used as decorations because I am curious to know what titles they pick. I took a picture of this for some reason. I know of George Bernard Shaw by name, but I don't remember reading anything by him. Makes me wonder if I heard the name on Gilmore Girls or something. I didn't take very long for us to be called to our seat. I wasn't quite sure what to make of the place. I loved the wood floors and paneling, but the loud atmosphere already seemed like a bit much and we hadn't even fully walked in yet. We were led into the center room, and it looked amazing. Of course, Howard took a few pictures of the ceiling with all the stained glass. I like how it didn't look old or worn out. From this picture, it seems as if the paint is really well-kept. I know that's an odd thing to be commenting on, but it does bug me when places look too worn out even if it's meant to be part of the restaurant's atmosphere. When Guy Fieri visits these dives that have like, tables and walls that are carved with people's names and such, I get kind of skeeved. I think about all the germs living in those crevices, and I can't help but lose my appetite. This restaurant did not have this feel thankfully! In another picture, you'll be able to see where we were sitting. We were part of that big circular booth that goes around the stage, but we were all the way at the end. We took a look at the menu to narrow down what we were going to have even though we had a general idea because we had discussed it when we were waiting for Captain EO. It was still bright when we arrived, so it was perfect for pictures! I had to get one of my HUSBAND. It's been almost 10 months of being married, and I STILL haven't gotten tired of saying he's my husband! I know many people say we're just in the honeymoon phase, but I think this is going to last for quite some time! Yes, we really are very happy being together! I think because we were only able to see each other on the weekends for so many years that we can't help but get super excited to see each other every day! Okay, here's a better idea as to where we were sitting. There were guys hanging out with drinks and leaning up against the other side of the booth where I was sitting. The constant movement was driving me nutso! I was like, getting motion sick just from sitting in a restaurant! At first I thought it was the people next to us, but their movements didn't line up with what I was feeling. I was getting so annoyed because it was making me feel so sick! Howard offered to change seats with me, but I thought that I'd be able to deal with it and that they'd leave after a while. You can see that Howard was not very happy that these guys drinking were making his wife feel so gross. A guy went up on stage to begin setting up, so I was eager for some sort of distraction in the form of music or dance! VIDEO: Raglan Road Music We placed our order with our server, and then we got the famous Irish soda bread with the dipping sauce. When Howard started dating me, he learned about the wonders of having bread at restaurants! He didn't really go out to eat often, so with me, he had bread from Carrabba's, Outback, and Cheesecake Factory. He also understands the lure of good Italian bread to dip into sauce. Needless to say, we were eager to taste this! Okay, I've had a lot of bread in my time, but this was not one of the options that I actually liked. I didn't enjoy the texture of the bread on its own. I've tried Irish soda bread in the past, but I didn't like it then either but was hoping that this was more genuine and something I'd really savor. The dipping sauce was also not something I enjoyed. It was too sweet for me, and it seemed not to go with the bread. That's just my opinion, of course, because I know a lot of people love this stuff! Howard did like it though. It just wasn't something for me. Don't worry though; we have amazingly good bread at another restaurant later during our trip. At that point, the guys hanging behind my seat finally left, so I was really starting to settle down a bit. Our appetizer arrived at this point. We ordered the Appetiser D'Lirrah for Two just so that we could try a bunch of their different appetizers. Of course, we had to have an entire photo shoot before we even started eating it yet. I love how they put the sausages and scallops on the forks. Makes all the difference in presentation, I think. I was looking forward to tasting everything! It made it even better that there were sauces and dips for everything because I am a dipper, of course. The description on AllEars says that the appetizer includes our Dalkey Duo, Scallop Forest, Heaven on Earth, and Drunk Chicken Skewers ($27). As you can see, the drunk chicken skewers were not on the plate. Instead, we had wings instead, which we liked. We haven't had the chicken skewers, but in pictures, they look pretty boring and standard. First up was the Dalkey Duo, which is Dalkey-battered cocktail sausages with a Dalkey mustard dipping sauce. They put some in a little dish on the plate too so it's actually a LOT for two people! I think this entire appetizer could be shared between a whole table of people unless you didn't want to order an entree as well. I really like sausage so having it battered and fried made it that much more decadent. IT's a good thing we both ordered ginger ales! There's no way that I can eat such bad-for-me food if I didn't have soda. It's like how you need to have soda when you eat pizza or fried chicken. But like I said before, it was a LOT, and after a while, there's only so much sausage one can eat. Plus, I had ordered an entree that also had sausage in it! Bit of overkill. Should have thought that through! I was super excited to have the Scallop Forest. The menu description says that they are George Bank scallops in a golden batter served with a citrus lime dipping sauce and sweet chili jam. This was definitely a scallop vacation because I had it two other times during this trip as well. This was probably the unhealthiest version though with that batter once again! We're so used to have scallops in Chinese dishes that just aren't cooked properly. They are sometimes a bit chewy, but these weren't chewy at all. It was very easy to cut into them. They were really good that night, but if I had to rank the scallops throughout the trip, these were my least favorite. In the back you can see the Heaven on Earth, which was baby back ribs in a Guinness and honey glaze. Howard liked those better than I did. It reminded me too much of the dip that came with the bread. I did like it more than the bread combo though. In the front, you can see what I think were the Nom Nom Wings. The menu description said that they were sweet 'n spicy wings tossed in a honey, chili flake, soy and ginger sauce. I liked these a lot more than the ribs, but they did have a kick to them! Again, it was a good thing that we had those ginger ales! I don't think there's any way to eat this appetizer with just water. I guess that's why they serve this at a pub where people typically order beer. We didn't finish everything on our appetizer plate, but we just moved the few sausages we had left in that little dish off the big plate so that we'd have room for our entrees. Like I said before, I really should have thought twice about what I was ordering as my entree because I got sausage again. (continued in next post)
Always the Weird to my Ninja
Weird and Ninja Shout Out to You (Jan '15 TR in progress) // Mr. and Mrs. Weak Sauce Go the Distance (May '12 Disneymoon TR) // Delicious Indeed! (Feb '11 TR) // Saving Dole Whip Float Money (Feb '11 PTR) // Weird and Ninjas Pre-Disneymoon (April '10 TR) // It's Better Than Stuffed Mezzaluna with Sausage! (April '10 PTR) // A DISer's Trip of Firsts! (Feb '08 TR) // The Flat Adventures of Weird and Ninja! (Living the Life Outside of VMK) BLOG / INSTAGRAM / TWITTER - Msg me here if you want to follow Last edited by RachelNinja; 03-14-2013 at 11:01 AM. Reason: Posted same picture twice |
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(continued from previous post)
I ordered the Bangers and Booz, which was Guinness and onion bangers on mash, topped with caramelized onions and beef stew ($18). They really love that Guiness flavor, do they not? The stew part was pretty good with the mashed potatoes, but the flavors were still very strong. At that point, I was so full anyway so I couldn't really enjoy this. The music was loud and the shaking of the booth had already made me feel off. I have to say that Raglan Road was just not the restaurant for me at least not during dinner time. I'm sure that if I had a chance to have this during a more quieter time, I would have given this a better review. I should have ordered my other choice, which was the Pie in the Sky. The hubs ordered Mighty Mixed Grill, which incuded a lamb chop, Guinness banger, sirloin steak, black pudding, chicken drumstick and bacon ($28). The meats were on top of mashed potatoes, from what I remember and can see. The mashed potatoes were very thick. I know he liked some things better than others. I know for sure that he didn't end up liking the black pudding. If I was feeling better, I would have tried some too, but I didn't want to feel any worse than I already did by trying something new. This dish was not a homerun for him. Throughout dinner, the band played and the dancers came out. I did my best to let the entertainment distract me, but both things also created an even louder atmosphere. Plus, there were some songs that the crowds knew VERY well, and they all joined in with the singing! Clearly, this was a crowd that has been to Raglan Road rather often! The word that comes to mind to describe this time of night is raucous! The step dancers did their thing, which I thought I'd be able to enjoy more, but alas, it just added to the noise. Plus, their dancing was actually really short. It was fun to see how they would do their dance then get off stage and hang out with people they knew! VIDEO: Raglan Road Dancing I I liked the shade of blue that the dancers wore. VIDEO: Raglan Road Dancing II Here you can see more of the restaurant, specifically the bar area. Despite the noise, the dancers and the band were VERY skilled. I wonder what it must be like to do that as a career. It looks so simple when they do it because they are so talented, so it's like, "Hold that thought; I need to go dance for a few minutes" and then they return to continue their conversation! I know that people say that happens on Broadway! Actors and actresses will be on the phone off stage and then be like, "Hold up, that's my cue." That thought entertains me! Okay okay, great place ... I was done. It was definitely way too much for me. The loud music and dancing and the crazy crowds and the movement of the booth along with the fried food and strong flavors just did me in. I wanted to get out of there. Our server was away for a litle bit of time, and I needed to pack my food. But I was starting to get a little anxious, so I actually left Howard in the restaurant to pack my meal and pay the bill, and I Headed outside to get some fresh air. I ended up having to sit outside on a bench for a little bit until Howard came out. By then, the feelings of anxiety and thus nausea kind of dissipated. It was just a crowded area that just did not work for me. We slowly walked away from the one restaurant we would probably never visit again. It wasn't that it was horrible, but it just did not fit our tastes. We don't like super quiet restaurants and we clearly do not like super loud ones either! Take us back to Sanaa!
Always the Weird to my Ninja
Weird and Ninja Shout Out to You (Jan '15 TR in progress) // Mr. and Mrs. Weak Sauce Go the Distance (May '12 Disneymoon TR) // Delicious Indeed! (Feb '11 TR) // Saving Dole Whip Float Money (Feb '11 PTR) // Weird and Ninjas Pre-Disneymoon (April '10 TR) // It's Better Than Stuffed Mezzaluna with Sausage! (April '10 PTR) // A DISer's Trip of Firsts! (Feb '08 TR) // The Flat Adventures of Weird and Ninja! (Living the Life Outside of VMK) BLOG / INSTAGRAM / TWITTER - Msg me here if you want to follow |
Proud member of the WHO DAT NATION!!
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I really love this photo of you taking a photo!
Sorry Raglan Road was a disappointment for you. The atmosphere of a restaurant really can change the experience! Besides the dancing, I don't know if I'd ever really have the desire to eat there either, and your description sounds like it's not a place we would really enjoy. That would drive me CRAZY if someone kept bumping into my seat like that!! And like you, I am big on BREAD, so if the bread is not good, it sets a bad tone for the meal for me.
Me DH DS (4)
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Wow - sounds like Raglan Road was crazy that night. I have only eaten there once and we were not in the main dining room. My DH and I have an ADR there for June and I'm looking forward to eating in the main room. I guess once I have a couple beers the loudness won't bother me as much.
Your appetizer looks amazing and I enjoyed all your pictures - especially the ones of the ceiling!
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Join Date: Jun 2005
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Sorry you both didn't enjoy Raglan Road. At least you can say you've tried it!
I've always wondered how loud it is in there. Most people don't comment on that. I'm with you, I don't like it to be loud when I eat.
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First of all- LOVE the Gilmore Girls.
Second of all- Sorry you didn't enjoy Raglan Road. I have been there a few times now and I have to say I much prefer it for a late lunch after spending the morning shopping than a dinner. It is never full. You can appreciate the beauty of the room much more with the natural light. And it is MUCH MUCH MUCH quieter. Dinner is definitely an upbeat loud time. More of a "Grab a few pints with friends' type atmosphere in my opinion. Lunch is more tame. Though there isn't any dancing or live music. You might want to give it a second chance- just a thought! I understand if you don't though! At least you tried it! |
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Location: Virginia
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Ooh, how's Flickr? I really want to switch over from photobucket, too.
I know what you mean, I like places I eat at to look clean and well-kept. That's one of the reasons I'm not a big fan of Cracker Barrel, hahah. Those always seem really dusty to me... I'm weird. ANYWAYS. Oh darn, I'm sorry your meal wasn't all that. I totally get it though... super loud places like that make me really uncomfortable as well. I could NEVER go to a club. Ick! Hahaha. Your appetizer looks really yummy, at least! I want to try this place someday... but probably at lunch! EARLY lunch.
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DIS Veteran
Join Date: May 2009
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DD and I had a similar experience at Raglan Road. Our server was absolutely horrible - one of the worst I've had anywhere. The food was just meh and it was loud and crowded. It didn't make me anxious to go back! If I did I'd probably try it at lunchtime.
Pass me a margarita
Join Date: Nov 2009
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Haha, Gotham! Danananananana- Batman! I totally meant Animal Kingdom I think!
Sad about Raglan Road not bring great. I wanna try it sometime but I never get to DTD to eat anywhere but quick service... I hope your day gets better!
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Join Date: Jul 2010
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So I'm catching up, so this comment goes back to the Living with the Land post. It is funny, how compelling it is to photograph that ride, even if it's just plants. And the fish. And the alligators. I had alligator once, it was terrible. I'm not sure if it was just cooked badly or what, but it was gross. Or maybe it was crocodile. Either way... I also find Dr. Nigel in the moon quite creepy. It just looks so weird! But the butterfly optical illusion is cool. And Captain EO IS mind blowing! I agree, way better than Honey, I Shrunk the Audience. I think I went on that once or twice when I was a kid and vowed to never go on it again. I don't remember why. And what, there's like a house model in Innovations? So weird. I've never even heard of it.
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Ahh, I'm sorry you didn't like Raglan Road! I can definitely see how it's not for everyone-- it has a very specific atmosphere. The food does look delicious from the photos, though! We're going in August-- I can't wait to try the battered mini sausages. There's a place in the Bronx where my dad lives that does battered sausages-- they're a heart attack on a plate, but so yummy!!
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Oh, bummer on Raglan Road. I am just like you with the noise, movement, etc. I couldn't do it for long either. I like to be able to hear myself think. Well, now you can say you tried it and don't have to go back if you don't choose to. Onto better things!
Kelli, mom to four awesome kids! (14, 13, 10 & 7)
Nov '06: Pop Nov '08: POFQ Dec '09: OKW Sept '10: AsMo Oct '12: POR Just me and my girl a very special 13th Birthday trip! (updated 2/20/14) |
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text:
Leonard Cohen World Tour – Playing The Odds In Las Vegas
Everybody knows that the dice are loaded
Everybody rolls with their fingers crossed
Everybody knows that the war is over
Everybody knows the good guys lost
Everybody knows the fight was fixed
The poor stay poor, the rich get rich
That's how it goes
Everybody knows
From "Everybody Knows" by Leonard Cohen
Heck Of A Guy has obtained, from a mid-level manager at a regional advertising agency, whose child has now been returned to him, safe and sound, information about plans for positioning the Leonard Cohen Las Vegas concert to enhance its attraction to potential ticket-buyers in the local market.
Webb Sisters Sublime In Latex
The theme, touted in the marketing memos as "classic, classy cabaret," is apparent in the alterations made in the portion of the show featuring the Sublime Webb Sisters" – who will be presented at the Las Vegas gig as the "Sublime Webb Mistresses." The tentative script for Cohen's introduction of them begins, "Confuse them with the Sisters Of Mercy at your own risk – they are the … "
Their customized for Vegas version of "If It Be Your Will" – renamed for the occasion, "That's 'If It Be Our Will,' Biatch" – will be the first performance of that song to feature handcuffs, a variety of leather implements, battery cables, and a volunteer from the audience.1
Leonard Cohen Las Vegas Concert TV Ad
Even more thematically indicative, however, is this rough cut of the TV ad being produced to to promote the World Tour Las Vegas concert.
Leonard Cohen – Las Vegas Concert Ad
- Hattie's harp is apparently still part of the act but, according to a stagehand who has witnessed one of the secret rehearsals, "It isn't the harp getting plucked, if you know what I mean." [↩]


text:
Postal Service plan to cut Saturday delivery catches some by surprise
BY STEFANO ESPOSITO Staff Reporter email@example.com February 6, 2013 7:09AM
Article Extras
Updated: March 8, 2013 7:32AM
Coupons for things you'd never dream of buying.
Dreaded bills.
Solicitations not so cleverly disguised as: "Important Information. Open immediately."
If that's what is stuffed in your mailbox most days, you probably won't care that the U.S. Postal Service plans to stop delivering mail — with the exception of packages — on Saturdays.
On the other hand, Jennifer Vu, who still enjoys sending and receiving mail the old-fashioned way, appeared stunned at the news.
"Oh my gosh — that's surprising," said Vu, 30, a River North physician dropping off her wedding invitations at the Fort Dearborn branch post office downtown Wednesday. "I'm not happy about it. It's one less day to get mail. I already feel it's difficult when you don't get mail on Sunday."
The Postal Service's new plan is intended to save about $2 billion, the financially struggling agency says.
The service announced Wednesday that the Saturday mail cutback would begin in August.
The move accentuates one of the agency's strong points — package delivery has increased by 14 percent since 2010, officials say, while the delivery of letters and other mail has declined with increasing use of email and other Internet use.
Under the new plan, mail would still be delivered to post office boxes on Saturdays. Post offices now open on Saturdays would remain open that day.
But some folks are so irritated with the current quality of service, they'd be happy to see the Postal Service abolished entirely.
"They're horrible. Burn it down," said a River North Postal Service customer who agreed to give only his first name, Scott. "You stand in line. There are 12 people in line, and no one reacts to the fact that you're there. The level of service — they should be embarrassed."
The elimination of Saturday mail carrier delivery service is of no concern to a few shoppers outside a Norridge grocery store Wednesday afternoon.
"I have no complaints," said German Corzo, as he laughed about the notion of having one less day to receive bills.
The thought of no Saturday letter service also didn't faze Dorothy and Tom Fahy.
"No, it's not going to affect us," Dorothy Fahy said.
"No, it won't matter," added Tom Fahy.
But Michael Maruszak, 53, who works downtown but lives in southwest suburban Justice said the Postal Service remains valuable — particularly for older, less tech-savvy people.
"The older people don't get out that much — they're not computer literate. Not having them deliver the mail [Saturdays] is going to cause a lot of problems," said Maruszak, then adding, "The post office is trying to keep themselves going but the more you take away, the more people are going to [say], 'Do we really need them?'"
Business was brisk Wednesday morning at the Tinley Park Post Office, where people had mixed reactions to the news.
Angie Watkins, 50, of Tinley Park, thinks it's good idea.
"Whatever they do to save money is great because we need the Postal Service," Watkins said. "I won't miss Saturday delivery. You get mail through the week. So it's OK with me."
Dr. Bob Marini, 49, of Tinley Park, also supported the cost-saving idea.
"That's a lot of money. It's only a step in the right direction. It's not a big deal to not get Saturday delivery," said Marini, an optometrist in Palos Heights.
Arnold Lorenzini, of Palos Heights, said he won't miss Saturday mail.
"Five days a week is enough, unless you send something critical," Lorenzini said. "They'll use special delivery or overnight for that. If this saves money, I'm for it."
Lorenzini, 72, is semi-retired. He works three days a week as the manager of Harbor Tool Manufacturing in Tinley Park.
"I don't think the company will suffer because now with all the computer communications, e-mails, all of that, we have 24/7 communications anyway. Obviously, that's why the post office is losing money. It's really hurting the post office," he said.
Damon Lucero, 47, of Tinley Park, was not surprised by the news.
"Well, they've been talking about it since I was in high school," Lucero said. "Even when the service was in effect, it was always kind of spotty. It would get there at 5 in the evening, super late. During the week it's around 10:30 in the morning. Usually, I'm all for the unions but I don't think this is a great loss. It's good and it's bad but it's no loss. You can still mail stuff [on Saturdays] at the post office, so it's no big deal."
Alea McNellis, 24, of Tinley Park, worries that the lack of Saturday delivery may hurt her fledgling at-home business.
"It kind of sucks," McNellis said. "I do eBay so it helps with my shipping and stuff. I won't get pickups at my house then."
In Joliet, several people doubted the changes would have much impact on their lives.
"To me, it doesn't really make a difference," said Nicole Bregar of Joliet. "I do all my bills online. It's the economy, so hopefully they'll change it back when the economy improves."
Said Frances Casillas, also of Joliet: "Sometimes a lot of it's just junk mail, anyways."
Residents in the north suburbs were divided.
"Actually, I don't like it," said Carolina Machint of Waukegan, as she exited the post office on O'Plaine Road in Gurnee.
Alice Perez, 61, of Park City, felt the same way.
"No, I like getting my mail every day if possible," she said, although she understands the need to save money.
Sean Smith, 40, of Gages Lake, was accepting of the fact because the Postal Service is losing money. "If they are doing it to save money it's a good idea. I feel [that] if it puts them in the green then it's a good idea," he said.
Cathy Kramer, 53, of Beach Park, whose ex-father-in-law is a retired postal worker living in Florida, said she didn't see it affecting her greatly. "It doesn't really upset me too much," she said. "It's not like I'm staring out my window [on Saturdays] waiting for the mail. I'd rather they be more efficient."
"I think this is a good move.... One step closer to privatization," said Jim Moran, a Libertyville resident and village trustee, in a Facebook posting.
Customers' opinions in northwest Indiana, such those at a Merrillville post office, ran the gamut.
Valparaiso resident Sue Poss said she didn't really care about truncated service since she pays most of her bills online and most of the items she receives are junk mail.
Hobart resident Betty Davis was saddened by the news.
"It indicates that service has gone out the window," Davis said. "A lot of people are dependent on receiving things in the mail. I work with senior citizens and even if they can afford a computer, the (Internet) service is too expensive for them."
Davis said the agency must work more efficiency but Congress also should fix the law that requires the Postal Service to collect 10 years of future retiree health care costs. No other federal agency is subject to such a requirement.
Merrillville resident Eric Cross said ending Saturday service is good "if it's going to save the money they say it is."
"I want the Postal Service to stay solvent, and I think people will accept the change for the money they say it's going to save," Cross said.
Over the past several years, the Postal Service has advocated shifting to a five-day delivery schedule for mail and packages — and it repeatedly but unsuccessfully appealed to Congress to approve the move. Though an independent agency, the service gets no tax dollars for its day-to-day operations but is subject to congressional control.
It was not immediately clear how the service could eliminate Saturday mail without congressional approval.
But the agency clearly thinks it has a majority of the American public on its side regarding the change.
Material prepared for the Wednesday news conference by Patrick R. Donahoe, postmaster general and CEO, says Postal Service market research and other research has indicated that nearly 7 in 10 Americans support the switch to five-day delivery as a way for the Postal Service to reduce costs.
Contributing: AP, Cathryn Gran and Steve Metsch