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Donations made through Annual Giving are used to fill the gap between the cost of educating a child and paid tuition. Each contribution is a gift of confidence in our children and in the strength of our mission. EVERY DOLLAR MAKES A DIFFERENCE!
Annual Giving enables the trustees, current parents, faculty and staff, past parents, former trustees, grandparents and friends to partner in making a difference in the lives of our students. Join our constituents who have expressed their devotion to preserving a Sacred Heart education by making a commitment to its future in the form of Annual Giving.
We ask all of our constituents to give to the best of their abilities and hope that the Academy of the Sacred Heart is a philanthropic priority. Our goal is participation. Strong participation is a reflection of our belief in the school, its mission and the Goals and Criteria.
The gap between the cost of educating each student and paid tuition is approximately $2,600. A gift of $5, $50, $500 or $15,000 will help us reach our goal. Each year, we also ask our constituents to consider increasing their Annual Giving to help subsidize the rising costs of an independent school education.
Yes, all donations made through Annual Giving are 100 percent tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. (Please consult your tax advisor for clarification.) All donors will be listed in the Annual Report unless the donor wishes to contribute anonymously.
Annual Giving donations are accepted in many ways. We are pleased to accept gifts online via MasterCard, VISA, American Express and Discover. We also accept cash, checks, matching gifts and gifts of stock.
Support and participation in all of our fundraisers at the Academy of the Sacred Heart are very important. We ask all of our constituents to help in whichever way best fits their circumstances. Annual Giving and special events (such as the Benefit) both support operations and help pay for expenses that are not covered by tuition.
Yes, tribute gifts are a way to recognize an individual publicly. For example, if a donor wants to give in honor of a faculty member, the teacher will receive notification of the donor's generosity via a letter and the gift will then be listed in the appropriate category of the Annual Report.
Annual Giving 2014-2015 begins July 1, 2014 and concludes June 30, 2015. All of our constituencies are solicited initially in the fall. Contributions, however, will be accepted throughout the fiscal year. Please keep in mind that we accept gifts in the form of pledges throughout the year and they can be paid off in installments at the donor's convenience.
We ask with confidence that all of our constituents participate in Annual Giving so that we can make a difference in the lives of our students by creating new opportunities and preserving an education rooted in the Goals and Criteria of the Network of the Sacred Heart Schools.
You may contribute online here, or send your gift to:
Advancement Office Academy of the Sacred Heart 1250 Kensington Road Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304
Advancement Office
Academy of the Sacred Heart
1250 Kensington Road
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304
Or contact Liz Wiltsie Cooley at 248-646-8900 x 191 or via e-mail at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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subset: commoncrawl


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Here's another fun blog you may not have seen. She created a Witch's Lair with lots of neat stuff. Have fun.
Luvs |
Here is a link that might be useful: Halloween witch's lair
Follow-Up Postings:
- Posted by janet1_2007 (My Page) on Mon, Oct 18, 10 at 23:10
Luvs, that is a neat blog. I enjoyed looking at it a lot. the witch that landed in the urn reminded me of a couple of different things that I have seen done here. The first is a witch es cape, hat ,boots and broom arranged on a tree to look like she had flown into a tree. The other was done with one of those large round bales of hay, with a stuffed pair of men's jeans and a pair of boots sticking out of the end of hay, to look like a man hd been baled in the roll of hay. I don't have pics so I hope you can visulize what I am describing. janet |
- Posted by purplemoon (My Page) on Tue, Oct 19, 10 at 0:04
Luvs, you really found a fantastic blog. I think her decor is absolutely TOPS! I love every single thing she did. Spooky without being too creepy (for me), and she managed to infuse elegance into this, somehow, I think! The black hand holding the mouse...really loved that. And the witch legs sticking out of the urn is a hoot. I've seen that in quite a few photos this year and think it is one of my favorite decorations. Gosh, I'm going to have look at her decorations quite a few times to take them all in properly. But thank you for finding her to share. hugs, Karen |
Luvs, this gal decorates so much it is unreal. I enjoyed looking at all of her decorations and thanks for sharing with us. Janet, I know exactly what you are talking about. We have this bale of hay at The Pumpkin Patch right now. The witch is also a neat idea and I've seen them too. Punk |
Thanks for the tour!! Jan |
Loved the tour. She really went all out on her decorations. Everything is so creative too. I love the Witch Silhouette Pictures on the wall and the hand holding the mouse. The Skeleton head in the jar is clever too. Also the Witch legs sticking out of the urn caught my eye. I've got those stockings from my costume..and will keep that idea in mind. Janet...several ago DH did that with his old jeans and work boots and stuck them in a pile of wood chips. We told my DGS who was 4 at the time to come see what happened to PaPa! Well he got so upset thinking his PaPa actually got stuck upside down, he started yelling 'PaPa...PaPa...We have to get him out - Quick'! We felt so bad that he reacted so strongly and felt even worse from the expression on his face, when we told him it was just a joke. (our lesson on - don't do this to children) He's 13 now, and still remembers it clearly and we still feel bad too. jane |
- Posted by luvstocraft (My Page) on Tue, Oct 19, 10 at 12:33
Janet, I've seen pictures of those bales of hay that look like someone got baled right in it. Very funny! I've always loved the witch's that look like they smashed into a door or tree--I could see that happening if they were flying around in the dark! LOL I just think it is so fun that people do all of this and are so creative! And of course, the ever present question--where do they store it all???? Luvs |
- Posted by jeannespines (My Page) on Tue, Oct 19, 10 at 23:29
thanks for the blog, luvs! I enjoyed the black hand with the mouse...I got a brass mouse this summer but don't have a hand (will watch for that!) ... & ewwwwww on the "buzzard" on the shelf...icky! Witch in urn ...very cute! This gal goes all out! Was fun lookin'! Jeanne S. |
- Posted by lynnencfan (My Page) on Thu, Oct 21, 10 at 11:58
cute cute ideas in there thats for sure - thanks for the link :) ...... Lynne |
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31 January 2015
Book Reviews
CW Games
Fantasy Cricket
Games & Downloads
Stats Spider
World Cup 2011 HQ - Blog Introduction
James Nixon | 12:48am gmt 21 Jan 2011
Once every four years, the cricket world gathers together and the fifty-over game takes centre stage. Yes people, it is time for the Cricket World Cup, coming to you from Asia.
Here at Cricket Web, we'll be following the action closely, so we decided to share our thoughts with you. The last tournament may have been a disappointment, and there may have been 47 World Twenty20 tournaments since, but still, we have high hopes for this one. The teams seem evenly balanced; you might favour one or another, but there is no hugely overriding favourite. There should be some cracking games and we'll be hoping to provide you with some interesting opinions.
So keep an eye on things here. We'll be updating up to and throughout the tournament. Enjoy.
World Cup 2011 HQ Blog
A collaborative World Cup blog covering the tournament from start to finish with CW Staff Member Ganesh Venkat being on the ground for some of the matches.
Blog Homepage
World Cup HQ Homepage
Recent World Cup 2011 Forum Posts
*Official* - Final - India v Sri Lanka
Absolute disgrace
Our time will come - Chak De Indiaaaaa
Misbah didn't really play that bad
My Top 5 Magical World Cup Moments
Dhoni is a superstar. Haters can suck it
Have South Africa taken a big step in removing the CHOKERS tag
Aleem Dar WAG!
Recent World Cup 2011 HQ
India v Pakistan - Semi Final
The Battle of Mohali
England v Sri Lanka - Live Blogging from RPIC, Colombo
Australia v India - Live Blogging from Motera, Ahmedabad
India-Australia Pre match conference.
Time for the Main Course
World Cup Fantasy Cricket: Part 2 - The Update of Shame
West Indies v India - Live Blogging
January 2011
February 2011
March 2011
Cricket Web Forum
CW Games
Cricket Web on Twitter
Cricket Web on Facebook
Fantasy Cricket
About & Contact Us
Copyright © Cricket Web 2001-2012


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Clippings by kathleen_li |
Sort by: Last Updated Post Date Post Title Forum Name | |
RE: Ann T's 'scone' recipe wanted!!! (Follow-Up #1)
posted by: ann_t on 01.10.2007 at 04:27 pm in Cooking Forum Here it is"
Home Cookin Chapter: Recipes From Thibeault's Table Raspberry Scones 2 1/4 cups flour Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and Roll into 7-inch round and cut into 6 or 8 wedges. Place 1 inch apart Note: When adding fruit to the scone mixture, make sure the raspberries
NOTES: <none>
clipped on: 03.18.2007 at 09:14 pm last updated on: 03.18.2007 at 09:14 pm


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While preparing your taxes you may have a number of questions. Delaware Investments provides answers to some frequently asked questions regarding distributions, including dividends and capital gains distributions.
In most states, income from U.S. Treasury securities and other U.S. government obligations is exempt from state income taxes. Please contact your tax advisor for details. For a list of Optimum Funds and the percentage of ordinary dividends they derived from U.S. government obligations, please see the following table.
For the 2013 tax year, there were no reportable foreign tax credits to pass through to the shareholders of the Optimum Funds.
The information contained in this section is not intended to be legal or tax advice. If you need assistance preparing your tax return, please consult a tax advisor.
Information may be abridged and therefore incomplete. Any discussion pertaining to taxes in this communication (including attachments) may be part of the promotion or marketing of a product. As provided for in government regulations, advice (if any) related to federal taxes that is contained in this communication (including attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code. Individuals should seek advice based on their own particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor.
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France - $2,485
Paris and Loire Valley, June 5–15
From the Pére LaChaise cemetery and the Palace of Versailles to the enchanting chateaux of the Loire Valley, spend 10 days exploring the city and countryside in France this summer!
Spain - $2,535
Barcelona and Madrid, June 5–15
Spend 10 days taking in all that Madrid and Barcelona have to offer! With cool activities planned every day, and just as much free time to explore on your own, this trip is the perfect opportunity to experience the Spanish culture!
What to expect on your trip.
We have tons of cool activities and spots to visit planned for each day of your trip, as well as group language lessons in the mornings and early afternoons. On most days you will have afternoons and evenings free to explore on your own, though students generally form smaller groups and stick together. On past trips, many of these groups have elected to do additional tours and excursions. Our teachers can help with transit directions and helpful information for travelers who want to use their free time to see a show, take a Segway tour, participate in a cooking class, etc.
Fluent City's trips abroad are lead by our same awesome teachers who know the best spots in town and who can't wait to bring you to them and get you speaking the language. Fluent City handles all logistics of flights, hotels and day-to-day itineraries including almost daily language lessons planned at the most scenic and/or culturally awesome locations in town. We give you plenty of opportunities to also tack on your own cultural and social activities or just relax at cafes and take in the city!
We welcome all interested travelers on our Fluent City language immersion trips, even those who have never taken a class before. No prior experience in the language is required.


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Spring Night Auction Party: May 10, 6 - 11 pm
High School Pre-Party Reception at 5:30 pm
Online Auction: May 2 - May 15
Closes at 10:00 pm
Click here to veiw the Online Auction
- The Event
Where, when, and what - Auction Benefit
All about the Online, Silent, and Live Auctions - Donations of Items and Services
Ideas for unique things (Soup/dessert of the month, visit to see your business, etc...) - Class Projects
What are they and how do they support the auction? - Underwriting the event
Angel tickets, corporate sponsorships, etc... - How Can I Help?
All about volunteering, donating, and bidding.
The Event
The Spring Night Benefit will be held Saturday, May 10 from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM at The Generals Residence in Upper Fort Mason. The entrance is on Bay Street at Franklin Street. Click here for driving directions. Parking: we have reserved a parking lot in Fort Mason. Click here for a a map to the lot.
High School Pre-Party Reception
Last year we continued the tradition of a pre-party for high school parents, as there are fewer opportunities for this group to gather during the year. Since it was such a great success, we will continue this again starting at 5:30pm in the Funston Room at the Generals Residence. Come mingle with other high school parents, partake in light food and drinks, and chat with faculty and administration.
Auction Benefit
Online Auction
The Online Auction will open Friday, May 2 at 10am and will close Thursday, May 15 at 10:00pm. The items on the Online Auction are generally gift certificates, vacation stays, and a variety of services that have been offered by the community. Because many of the items in the online auction are from stores where you already shop, the online auction is a great way to support the school. Click here to view items, update your address, or make a donation! You do not need to attend Spring Night to participate in the online auction.
Silent Auction
The Silent Auction takes place from 6:30 – 7:30 pm on May 10 at the Generals Residence. The items at the Silent Auction are often beautiful pieces of art, homemade crafts, clothing, jewelry, and extra special items from our community. The Silent Auction is a great opportunity to mingle with the community, partake in delicious food and drink, and support the school at the same time. Can't come to the Auction but want to bid? Pre-bidding is available on the online website. Download an Absentee Bid Sheet here.
Live Auction
The Live Auction is the second half of the Spring Night Auction Party. It is a fun-filled and entertaining auction with a professional auctioneer. It features all of the Class Projects that everyone has been working on, special items from the community (last year a Catered Class Party was auctioned), and Fund-A-Need. Fund-A-Need is a particularly important part of Spring Night, where the community generously donates to particular needs determined by the school. Last year, this effort supported new drapes in Dakin Hall at the grade school and a variety of classroom features in Herbst Hall at the high school. Can't come to the Auction but want to bid? Download an Absentee Bid Sheet here.
Donations of Items and Services
To make Spring Night a successful fund-raising event, we rely on parents and extended community to make donations of services and items to auction. Many in our extended community of grandparents, alumni and alumni parents participate in the bidding, so it is a great way to demonstrate your generosity (and raise awareness of your business!). We will display a full color image and description of the donated item, as well as a link to your website if provided.
We are also interested in some of the more unique opportunities that our community can offer. Such donations could include a visit for a high school student to your business, a special meal, homemade canned goods, or special outings to places that you love. If you are interested in donating a unique item, the Advancement Office is happy to brainstorm ideas with you.
To make a donation, please go to www.sfwaldorf.org/donations. Donations should be received no later than April 28 to be included in the auction. SFWS is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization, so your donation is fully tax deductible. We also ask merchants in the wider Bay Area community to make donations, so if you have a relationship with a store, restaurant, or service provider, we are happy to help you ask for a donation! Contact Seraph White, our Advancement Associate, at (415) 875-7212 or firstname.lastname@example.com for questions and donation leads.
Class Projects
Class projects are an integral part of Spring Night Benefit Auction. Every year, a few months before the auction, classes decide on a project. These projects usually involve both parent and student creativity and a lot of much appreciated hard work. In the high school, projects are usually spearheaded by a smaller group of parents in collaboration with faculty and students, often highlighting student art. These projects are the cornerstone of the Live Auction and generate a large portion of revenues during Spring Night.
If you are a parent in the grade school, you have a class project coordinator who is organizing your class project. Please contact your class parent to get involved. Class projects are a great way to become engaged in your class community. Click here to view Class Projects for the 2014 Spring Night Benefit Auction.
Underwriting the event
At San Francisco Waldorf School inclusiveness is a core value and so we structure our Spring Night tickets to be accessible for everyone. This means that in addition to our base ticket price of $75, we have a pay-what-what-you-can ticket option, allowing you to pay the amount that is comfortable in your budget ($0 and up). We also offer a number of sponsorship levels that allow us to cover the costs of the event without infringing on the financial success of the auction itself. You can choose the ticket level that is best for you when you RSVP.
Individual and Corporate Sponsorship
If you are unable to attend Spring Night, but would still like to support the event, we strongly encourage event sponsorship. Please contact Mitch Mitchell, Advancement Director, at (415) 875-7211 or firstname.lastname@example.com, if you have any questions.
We also welcome corporate sponsorships. These sponsorships can be for complimentary tickets or for more comprehensive event support. We will display corporate logos for sponsorships at $1000 and above on our auction material, and will recognize all sponsorships in our Annual Report. If you think that your company would be interested in sponsoring our event, please contact Mitch at (415) 875-7211 or firstname.lastname@example.com for any supporting material that you require.
How Can I Help?
Volunteer Jobs
Putting on an event like the Spring Night Benefit Auction is truly a community effort. In addition to the countless hours spent by the Spring Night volunteer team led by Auction Chair Juliana Beach, we need help with a number of jobs at or near the event itself. These include:
- Class Project support
- Set-Up and Clean-up
- Check-In/Check-Out Support
To volunteer, please contact Mitch at (415) 875-7211 or email@example.com.
Donation Solicitation
As mentioned above, soliciting donations or donating your own goods or services helps make Spring Night a successful fundraiser. Click here to donate to the auction.


text:
I am very pleased to announce the next mapping competition series.
As I am sure you have guessed it's called the 3×24.
This is just the series announcement. A proper site and full details, hopefully including the intro video, will be available in the New Year.
A mapping competition series of 3 events, each lasting 24 days – that's 4 complete weekends.
Each competition will have a detailed theme and have the possibility of each entrant continuing on from their previous entry or just submitting a stand alone entry.
There will be an 8 week's break between each competition. The exact dates and times are below:
Competition 1: 11:00pm GMT Fri 11th January – 11:00pm GMT Sunday 3rd February
Competition 2: 11:00pm GMT Fri 5th April – 11:00pm GMT Sunday 28th April
Competition 3: 11:00pm GMT Fri 28th June – 11:00pm GMT Sunday 21st July
If a mapper enters all 3 competitions then they will have the opportunity to polish all three entries and release as an updated mod.
The objective is to provide mappers with a global framework for a proper mod, with a beginning, a middle and an end.
Once the second competition has been announced, mappers will be allowed to make small modifications to the end of their last entry, but nothing too significant. Larger changes will be allowed if they enter all 3 competitions.
As with the 6×10 Series, I won't be announcing the themes until the start day of each competition so mappers won't be able to continue working on their maps.
To ensure that entrants don't simple continue working on their mod, there will be some thematic elements that will provide additional design decisions. Hopefully this will make it difficult for them to simply create something and then try to "fit" it to the announced theme.
I will also require entrants to include (NOT make) at least 2 new models per entry. I will encourage them to PakRat them, just in case others try to use a different model for the same item (the barrel, for example) causing me issues with creating a mod. The use of freely available textures is also encouraged.
Both of the above points are to ensure each entry can have its own atmosphere and design, but still have the overall feel of being in the Half-Life universe.
General rules will apply to all competitions for example a maximum of 2 maps per entry, and also competition specific rules.
There will be a small prize for each competition and and overall prize for mappers who enter all three competitions.
That prize will be awarded after a period of "polish". I will then be judging the final, finish mod not the 3 individual entries. Significant changes will NOT be allowed at this stage.
I hope to make this prize by far the biggest, making it worthwhile for mappers to seriously consider entering all three comps.
So, for now, just ponder and wait for the first competition's proper announcement.
28th December 2012
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Interesting competition, it seems well thought out. I like how the final result generates a full singleplayer mod. If some mappers only compete in 1 of the 3 competitions, should they treat their entries as maps? I see a huge difference between entering 1 or 3 times when it comes to building a start-mid-end to the map/mod.
I don't understand the 2-new-models and pakrat thing. Will you provide the models and how can there be a conflict?
The length of each competition is better than the recent 10 day competition, which for me was too stressful. Nice to add a break between the competitions.
A great way to kick of a promising Half-Life 2 singleplayer year!
I like the details of this contest, but I also wonder about the 2 models requirement. It seems like an odd prerequisite, given the lack of explanation over how they are expected to be used and judged. At face value, it feels like the intent is to encourage an entrant to make custom models that extend the Half-Life universe and feel, but the "barrel" example leaves me wondering how such a model accomplishes that.
It's not very clear so i'm going to ask, does it HAVE to be a source engine game? No other games allowed? Suppose a unreal mod or doom 3 mod, wouldnt be accepted in the competition?
Thanks for organising another mapping competition! The idea of coming up with a complete mod at the end does sound really cool. I have had my own Source mod in the works for a little while now but I keep having to put it on hold due to school work.
I really hope to take part, although I will have to start the first one late due to my exams. I don't really like the idea of adding custom models, could you possibly substitute it for custom textures or sounds, because they are simpler and quicker to make and import, but they could have big effect on the mod.
I'm a fan of the more generous timespan, and I love how all three competitions can link together into a sole mod. It's certainly going to be fun and interesting competition, I hope I'll be able to participate!
Though like most of the others who have commented here, I'm a bit confused by the two-model requirement. They might not be hard to import, but I don't really see their point. If a map needs models outside of default HL2, I'm all for the creator being allowed to bring them in, but if not, why require it?
Anyway, either way the models issue goes, I'm just happy to see that the competitions are going on, and based on such a good concept too! Sort of a "tutorial" to transition mappers to modders, an excellent idea. Definitely looking forward to this.
Quick question: do our entries necessarily have to take place in the standard HL2 universe? Seeing as its slightly more mod-like, could we bring the player to some sort of "Mistake of Pythagoras"-style alternative twist on HL2, or an entirely new setting beyond HL2?
Hey Phillip I want to know one thing. In this competition can I use models from sites like this one: http://thefree3dmodels.com/ ?
If you have a problem with the ideas, I have a couple of
@Tobeas: where can I get the book: "How to use Blender for Source Moddings for Dummyes" by Tobeas 86 ?
@Phillip: – great contest! PP – still is Cake!
@all: how I envy you – I have an idea, but the maximum that I can write a scenario and make a models in 3D max
(btw this idea intersects with depot – it's inspired by http://www.planetphillip.com/posts/maunsell-sea-forts-real-theme/ and will look ~like depot environment, but concentrated on puzzles with making|repairing bridges with hoisting cranes(derricks), car jumping and force fields swithcing, plus some battles with zombies in caves and ant lions in the shallows (shelf) ) -
Man… I really want to participate again, but this one in particular has come at an inconvenient time (though… the same can be said for the last few times for me).
I'll see what I can do, but I'll be lucky if I can even get my PC back in time from the movers.
Still want to try regardless!
I'd like to enter, but do Propper models count? In case you don't know, Propper is a tool which allows you to create an object in Hammer, like you would create a map, and then convert it to a model, so that it can be used with "prop" entities (used to place models in a map).
If propper models do count, then the model problem will be sorted for me (and probably other mappers).
Propper info: https://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/Propper


text:
Pontiac, Michigan -- Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson applauds the Board of Commissioners' unanimous vote today in favor of his three-year budget recommendation for Fiscal Years 2012, 2013 and 2014.
The General Fund budget is balanced at $412,035,974 for Fiscal Year 2012; $413,950,138 for Fiscal Year 2013; and $421,212,381 for Fiscal Year 2014. Total budget for all funds amounts to $796,178,345 for Fiscal Year 2012; $783,509,204 for Fiscal Year 2013; and $790,936,792 for Fiscal Year 2014.
"In the design and execution of an effective long term budget, it is essential to have the commitment and cooperation of all elected officials," said Patterson "Oakland County enjoys that commitment and cooperation."
Under the new budget, which begins October 1, Oakland County employees will see no changes to their salaries in Fiscal Years 2012 and 2013. Employees are projected to receive a 1% pay increase in 2014. Employees will continue to contribute to the funding of their health care benefits, as they have since 1997.
"I want to take this opportunity to thank Oakland County employees for their dedication and hard work," Patterson said. "An overwhelming majority of them understand the financial challenges imposed by the economy, and they have accepted bearing some of the burden to reduce costs."
In addition, there are two programmatic changes: the reduction of one judge and subsequent staff in 52-4 District Court mandated by the State Court Administrative Office (a county savings of $155,000) and the potential for the Oakland County Sheriff to house short-term medium security prisoners for the Michigan Department of Corrections with an estimated net financial benefit of $1 million.
Oakland County is now addressing fiscal issues that will emerge in 2015 so that they do not become a crisis.
"Oakland County has and will continue to operate within its limited resources," Patterson said. "This is accomplished through our financial planning practices which include long-term financial forecasting, monitoring of the economic conditions and their impact on the budget, identifying opportunities for increased efficiencies, and continuous efforts toward reducing expenditures."
To view Patterson's July budget message, go to www.oakgov.com/exec. To view current and past budget documents, go to http://www.oakgov.com/mgtbud/fiscal/Pages/default.aspx.
For media inquiries only, please contact Bill Mullan, Media and Communications Officer, at (248) 858-1048.


text:
Hi All, I'm looking for a mower-type tractor without the mow deck.
Anyone know where I could find such an animal? I have a tractor with a loader, so don't want that type. Regards, Jim |
Follow-Up Postings:
Should be able to chk around wth your local tractor boneyards to find such... lots of decks wear out first. |
Methinks you misunderstood :). I'm looking for a new tractor without the mower deck. Thanks, Jim |
In that case, I suggest you jump to a higher tier of tractor in your search (if you want NEW). Generally, Riding Mowers, Lawn Tractors, Yard Tractors, and Garden tractors are a package aimed at the task of "mowing", and as such, simply are not marketed as a tractor chassis. You want to buy just a basic tractor with no accompanying mow deck, you need to move on to the higher tier of marketing that is called "Compact Utility Tractor" (aka CUT) or the somewhat smaller "Sub-CUT" line. But if price is an obstacle, you will not find joy in buying a new Sub-CUT or CUT expecting a break because of "no deck". Mass marketing being what it is, Sub-CUT and CUT class just does not enjoy enough sales to partake of the feeding frenzy that you find with YTs, LTs, GTs and the like. If this has not shed some light for you, perhaps you could tell us just what the heck you have goin' on with this search :^) |
- Posted by windcatcher (My Page) on Fri, Aug 13, 10 at 9:53
Simplicity higher end Garden tractors come base without the mower. It may be possible some of those green tractors on the higher end do also. |
Here is a link that might be useful: Simplicity Prestige
Sears told me that their larger ones can be shipped with the deck separately (not attached). Thanks, Jim |
- Posted by popcornhill (My Page) on Fri, Aug 13, 10 at 15:27
Is that kind of like going in and ordering a hamburger for say $3.00. Instead of ordering the happy meal for $2.00 and giving the fries and cokes away. |
I don't think so. It's like going in and NOT buying the value meal for $3.99 when I only want a hamburger and get one for $1.00 |
Sounds like you're getting the deck (unmounted) with the mower anyway. Decks are not that difficult to remove from any lawn/garden tractor....they're made to be removed. So, I don't get it? |
I'm no stranger to wrenches and I have a shop full of'em, BUT if it came without one, I'd be a couple skinned knuckles less. Also, I don't really LOVE wrenching. Now you get it, doncha? Anywho, I have given up on that unless I can tell someone to leave it off. My old one was never removed and it did what I wanted it to do. Regards, Jim |
If you get skinned knuckles every time you get near wrenches, you are not doing something right. All this time I wondered what sort of special or devious project you had in store for a mowerless tractor. But now............I still don't get it. Listen, you can tell us. We know how to keep a secret. I swear on a stack of service manuals I won't tell a soul. |
You're a nut, Mownie 1/2 acre yard, which has desert landscaping. Just how devious can a fellow get? BTW, my knuckles are skinned from them dragging through the gravel :). Now, as toy swore, don't tell a soul. BTW, I posted a question about "which mower" on here a little while ago. Which one do you consider more devious (smile)? Regards, Jim |
Yes, I have seen lawn mower races, and lawn tractor-pulls. I have yet to see a "GT" at Le Mans, but you never know. Get the Craftsman..........you might get a chance to meet Bob Vila that way. Whatever you buy,if you need to sell the deck, put it on e-Bay or craigslist. :^) |
Hmmmm, garlicjim's sense of humor about "racing them" really through me off course. I thought he was serious at first. The I saw his "disclaimer" of "Only kidding". So now I see the true intended uses for the tractor. Towing and pushing. Now I can give a real opinion on type of tractor. Since anything to do with a deck is not to be a consideration, and some of the task involve "ground engaging accessory equipment", I think you should be looking at Garden Tractors instead of Lawn Tractors (after all, "you ain't got no lawn mister". The scraper or any kind of "drag" you may pull is going to impose the greatest loads on the power train, and therefore, you need a Garden Tractor. Garden Tractors usually have a "down and dirty" lower gear range than Lawn Tractors for a very good reasons. I would personally prefer a Garden Tractor that had a gear type transmission instead of a hydrostatic drive or a 2 belt vari-drive. The 2 belt vari-drive system is a pretty good "compromise" between a standard gear type transmission and the all hydraulic hydrostatic drive. I think a Garden Tractor is needed here, not a lawn mower. |
Mownie! You got serious Regards, Jim |
Well ifin you want a cheap Tractor Sears is the way to Go . I was going to advise Cub Cadet , but for your needs the Sears Product will suffice. I probably would have preferred a Small 250-300 cc Quad 4x4 (used) , which would be much more versatile but more $$$ since you already have a dedicated A/T ford 4x4 for grass cutting needs. Have to admit I was with Mownie , had me scratching my head lol :). |
garlicjim, please note that the primary distinction I made was "Garden Tractor" versus "Lawn Mower" or "Lawn Tractor". The other differences of power train type would be somewhat up to the user's preference as to whether a gear type, a vari-drive, or a hydrostat tranny was in the machine. But a hydrostatic drive GARDEN TRACTOR will out perform a hydrostatic drive LAWN MOWER or a LAWN TRACTOR in regard to the punishment it will take before it rebels, or dies. Do you know the sears model number on the Craftsman you are considering? |
One of these.....probably the 6-Speed. http://tinyurl.com/296rbr8 Regards, Jim |
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Our International Services Center provides a comprehensive array of high-level services and exceptional medical care to the international community. Each year, the Center welcomes patients from around the world who arrive for initial diagnosis, treatment for a diagnosed disease or disorder, a valued second opinion or an annual checkup.
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Wall Street Pay Rises (WSJ)
Wall Street pay will bounce in 2012 from last year's sharply reduced levels, but bonuses will be lower and have more strings attached than before the financial crisis, the latest tally of finance-industry compensation shows. So-called incentive-based pay, which includes cash and stock awards, is set to be flat to up 5% to 10% from a year earlier, according to a forecast set to be released Monday by consulting firm Johnson Associates. At the same time, financial firms are keeping a lid on cash outlays by deferring more pay and trimming their workforces…Many securities-industry employees still rake in far more in pay than most other professions. But gone are the days when scores of star traders would get million-dollar, year-end windfalls. The average managing director is set to take home about $930,000 in total pay for 2012, up 3.3% from $900,000 a year ago but down about 23% from $1.2 million in 2010…Reflecting a big rebound from last year's plunge, the survey said bond traders—among the hardest hit in terms of pay in 2011—could see their bonuses rise 10% to 20%, even though several firms are scaling back fixed-income trading operations. Investment bankers and equity traders may receive as much as 10% less in bonuses than last year. Equity volumes remain weak, while global merger and acquisition volume is down 16% to $1.7 trillion through the first nine months of the year, according to Thomson Reuters.
Goldman Sachs Partner List Drops 31 Since February, Filing Shows (Bloomberg)
Some of the names missing from the latest filing had already been reported, such as former Securities Division Co- Head David B. Heller and Lucas van Praag, the former head of corporate communications. Others hadn't been announced.
Economy Set for Better Times Whether Obama or Romney Wins (Bloomberg)
Mitt Romney says Barack Obama's policies will consign the U.S. to an extended period of sluggish economic growth, at best. The president says his Republican challenger's plans will sow the seeds of another mammoth recession. Both are wrong. No matter who wins the election tomorrow, the economy is on course to enjoy faster growth in the next four years as the headwinds that have held it back turn into tailwinds. Consumers are spending more and saving less after reducing household debt to the lowest since 2003. Home prices are rebounding after falling more than 30 percent from their 2006 highs. And banks are increasing lending after boosting equity capital by more than $300 billion since 2009. "The die is cast for a much stronger recovery," said Mark Zandi, chief economist in West Chester, Pennsylvania, for Moody's Analytics Inc. He sees growth this year and next at about 2 percent before doubling to around 4 percent in both 2014 and 2015 as consumption, construction and hiring all pick up.
Chanos Unmoved by Chinese Banks' Biggest Rally Since Jan. (Bloomberg)
The biggest monthly surge in Chinese banks since January isn't enough to stop Jim Chanos from shorting the financial shares as the portfolio manager wagers the country faces a credit crisis as bad loans increase. "You can't look at a month and say that's the trend, or something's changed," Chanos, who oversees $6 billion as the founder and president at Kynikos Associates Ltd., said in a Bloomberg television interview. Bad loans peaking at 3 percent, "seems awfully Pollyannic," he said.
Merkel: Euro Debt Crisis Will Last 5 Years Or More (Reuters)
Merkel says the continent is on the right path to overcome the crisis but "whoever thinks this can be fixed in one or two years is wrong."
Europe's Bank Reviews Collateral (WSJ)
The issue involves about €80 billion in Spanish Treasury bills the ECB accepted as collateral for its loans. The ECB applies different discounts, or haircuts, to collateral based on the quality of the asset being posted. The Treasury bills under question were given the highest collateral rating, but Welt am Sonntag's research suggests many of the securities should have been given a lower rating, meaning more bills would have needed to be posted to obtain the same amount of ECB credit. If the ECB eventually were to downgrade the securities, banks would have to provide additional collateral to cover the nearly €17 billion in ECB loans they have received. The issue could prove to be embarrassing to the ECB if it is forced to admit it wasn't strict enough in enforcing its rules.
Jeep Driven By Suspected Smugglers Gets Stuck Atop U.S.-Mexico Border Fence (TSG)
A harebrained attempt by suspected smugglers to drive a Jeep Cherokee up and over a U.S.-Mexico border fence failed early Tuesday when the vehicle got stuck atop the 14-foot tall barrier. As seen above, the teetering SUV was spotted by U.S. Border Patrol agents after it had been driven up a makeshift ramp, but could not complete the trip's final leg into Arizona. When agents approached the vehicle, two individuals on the fence's Mexican side fled. Investigators suspect that the Jeep likely contained narcotics, which were offloaded when the vehicle became stuck.
Rochdale Says Bad Apple Trade Led to Rescue Bid (WSJ)
"Rochdale had an unauthorized trade that left us with a negative capital position. We are in talks that would result in a healthy balance sheet, and we expect to be trading maybe as early as Monday," said Rochdale President Daniel Crowley. He said the unauthorized trading was in shares of Apple, and that, as of Saturday evening, the company was in talks with two firms for a possible injection of capital. He declined to offer more details on the unauthorized trading.
S&P Found Liable by Australia Court for Misleading Rating (Bloomberg)
Standard & Poor's misled investors by giving its highest rating to securities whose value plunged during the global credit freeze, a judge ruled in an Australian case that may be cited in lawsuits around the world. S&P was "misleading and deceptive" in its rating of two structured debt issues in 2006, Federal Court Justice Jayne Jagot said in a summary of her ruling released today in Sydney. The Australian municipalities that brought the case are entitled to damages from the credit ratings company and two other defendants, ABN Amro Bank NV and Local Government Financial Services Pty., according to the ruling.
Banks Going Low-Tech In Aftermath Of Sandy (WSJ)
Sandy's devastating force has led many of the banks lying in its path to resort to old-fashioned, low-tech ways of serving their customers—including stocking up on cash and recording transactions by hand with ink and paper.
Hulk Hogan: Bubba the Love Sponge and I 'are NOT friends and never will be friends' after sex tape leak (NYDN)
They may have settled their sex tape brawl, but Hulk Hogan and Bubba the Love Sponge Clem aren't rekindling their former friendship, the wrestling star claimed Friday. "Just for the record, Bubba and I are NOT friends and never will be friends, we are NOT friends," Hulk Hogan said of the Florida shock jock in a Twitter message. Hogan sued Bubba Oct. 15 for invasion of privacy after grainy footage of the mustachioed muscleman having sex with Bubba's wife surfaced on Gawker.com…Hogan, 59, maintained he was unaware of any camera and that the leak of the 6-year-old recording, made with Bubba's consent while the wrestler's ill-fated marriage to ex-wife Linda Hogan was on the rocks, was a devastating blow.
Comments (61)
Why isn't that fence electrified and mined? I left strict instructions.
Isn't that vehicle a Jeep "Patriot"?
What is this, amateur hour? I could have had that Jeep airborne for at least another 20-30 feet.
We should have used Mini Coopers…
– M. Wahlberg, Project Manager "The Mexican Job"
I'm on the fence, too.
You should have consulted with us before you tried to imitate us.
Speaking of amateur hour.. I got SO played on Friday. Hit up this gal to see if she was out. She says yes, come join her. She even told me to hurry because her phone was dying! Me and my mates get to the pub.. and she's obviously with some other bloke! Um is this Elimidate? So not chill. That night I vaguely recall her and I having some aggressive drunken phone calls back and forth around 2 a.m. The last one ended with her saying stop contacting me and me laughing and telling her she hit her peak 4 years ago and to get over herself. But it gets worse..
I call a friend the next morning at like 8 a.m. to go for a run and then biddie from last nights vmail greeting starts playing! (I don't really save girls' numbers in my phone and fat fingered her # from the recent call list.) Unreal. She calls back a couple of times so I have to answer and explaining the error to her bloated ego was futile, she immediately interrupts and starts lecturing me that I need to take a hint and stop calling her, she understands that I'm upset but she really likes this new guy, her and me just aren't going to happen. I wonder how long she kept talking before she realized I hung up.
The lesson: if the first time you hang with a chick she tells you stories about guys being "obsessed" with her.. you're gonna have a bad time. Never justify obvious red flags because the girl is cute.
How else am I suppose to get reelected?
I can't see your sponsers being happy about comments like this
soooooo long story short she smelled the douchebag on you from a mile away and played you before you played her?
How long did you work on this, N'08/LaxBro? All night? All weekend?
1. This never happened. 2. You are not funny.
So was this just a slow week on the wedding front or have people finally stopped inviting you?
Long story short, this never happened and please don't encourage N'08/LaxBro's attempts at comedy writing.
"I trust everyone. It's the narcotics inside them I don't trust."
-Charlize Theron
Um, what's so unbelievable about the me getting played by some chick? It sucks and (when it happens) I prefer it to be more subtle than this but gotta take some knocks here and there.
Now it's a Nova.
-UBS Mexico Desk
Gidday Dylebrykers
How ya goin? I haven't seen ya in yonks. I bunged up my knee last week, chasin' after a mob of roos in the back paddock, so it wasn't easy to fix the leak in the dunny. But, no worries – she'll be right, mate! I don't notice the ryne on my noggin when I've bean on the grog. I haven't the time to yabber because I need to eat my sanger before the cockies get it.
We dont mind.
Mandy Drury's dad?
Is that a graphical depiction of bond duration?
UBS Fixed Income Quant.
Why are you chasing some attention whore early on a weekend night? You go out with bros to pull new talent, if you don't you call the reserves at 1:30 when they're shit faced. Rookie mistake, bro.
Something tells me the author of the above post suffers from a serious lack of friends of any sort, let alone bros that he could roll deep with to the bar on a Friday or Saturday night.
That car needs more kicking in the front seat.
– Rebecca Black Quant
I really hope this was like that 1/100 times that this scheme didn't work…..
Hahaha! Went for a run!? Poor people in Kenya run, she totally knew you didnt have any money that is why she blew you off. You want to get chicks you tell them you get exercise from a Bow-Flex or that $14k ROM machine.
Probably closer to 1/1000, but other than that, no concerns.
dont get me started
The delta between Laxbro and N'08 is like Richard Pryor to Eddie Murphy. Rich is original and doesn't give a fuck, Eddie's funny but he tries too hard, grossly exaggerates and he skipped school the day they taught subtlety. But this rejectedbro character is like George Lopez: no timing, all of this shit is made up and I'm pretty sure he's retarded.
What else was I supposed to do? My pass to the parking garage didn't work this morning.
-UBS trader
Dude just stop
Mates, Elimidate, so not chill, biddies, guys who go for runs with other guys, fat fingered, obvious red flags, I got SO played
I just accidentally down-voted you when I meant to hit thumbs up, apologies on that and eager to hear about your weekend.
This was exactly my primary grievance with the above post as well.
You have officialy reached your target destination "taco bell".
-Apple Maps
This is going to be horrible for Chipotle.
Roll deep?? All you need is one good wingman
– Goose
I don't run with dudes, because too many guys my age are obnoxious marathon man dbags. I'm sure whatever building you work in is full of them and their boasts about their raw diet and training regimen. I was attempting to call a former D1 runner chick that was in town for the marathon. Super mellow, but not attracted to her or anything, hence the use of "friend."
Stop that Jeep! It has my maid and lawn crew in it.
Now that you mention it, preforming unnecessary oral surgery on you sans anesthetic would probably be quite enjoyable.
Judging by the choice of words, he needs to change his handle from Rejectedbro to RugbyBro.
You misspelled 'dude'.
What I remember of High School Geometry tells me they'd need a 94 foot ramp to get a Grand Cherokee over that wall. So by the looks of it, this was a first attempt.
Great to see pay rebound to $1 million bucks for MD's! Congrats everyone. Bull market is back, no matter how much Matt and Bess think things are bad. :)
no worries LAXbro. sometimes when you take in the good, you take in the bad too.
George Lopez? I got more of a Dane Cook channeling his inner Russell Brand vibe.
We encourage you to dress super conservative and make a late-night stop at the Penn Station Taco Bell.
-Beckett Waldorf
Director of Marketing
Vineyard Vines -
Don't you talk about a national treasure like that! Also, consider amputating your fingers so you can't type any more of your screeds, thanks.
Thanks for that, it really brought the quality level up a bit.
I gave you a thumbs up but only because of my contempt for runner dickheads in the office.
Well-cut and brightly colored pants may also be helpful.
Wow, A+ for the reference, even though everybody on this site is too young to get it. (Wasn't it just "is it safe", though?)
So you're telling me there's a chance…
Keeping it safe from Storm Surge
Damn, I was hoping you died over the weekend.
I think it was, I'm also in the category of people "far too young to get it," but ended up watching it during the storm since it was one of three DVDs in my parents country house.


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Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Totality is seen during the solar eclipse at Vlassof Cay on November 14, 2012 in Palm Cove, Australia on November 14, 2012 in Cairns, Australia. Thousands of eclipse-watchers have gathered in part of North Queensland to enjoy the solar eclipse, the first in Australia in a decade.
© The Seattle Times Company


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[1586] Use of S100P, IMP3 and pVHL Immunopanel To Aid in the Interpretation of Bile Duct Biopsies with Atypical Histology or Suspicious for Malignancy.
Michael T Schmidt, Fai Chung, Fan Lin, Haodong Xu, Hanlin L Wang. Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA; Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA; University of Rochester, NY
Background: Histological evaluation of small bile duct biopsies is a known challenge. Our prior studies have shown that S100P, the insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA binding protein 3 (IMP3) and the von Hippel-Lindau gene product (pVHL) are a useful immunopanel for the distinction between adenocarcinoma and benign biliary epithelium (Levy et al. Hum Pathol 41:1210-9, 2010). The current study aimed to determine if this panel could be useful in making a more confident diagnosis for challenging bile duct biopsies with atypical histology or suspicious for malignancy.
Design: A total of 14 histologically challenging bile duct biopsies were immunohistochemically stained for S100P, IMP3 and pVHL. Nuclear staining for S100P, cytoplasmic staining for IMP3 and membranous staining for pVHL were considered positive. The staining intensity for pVHL was also evaluated to determine if it was reduced in the cells of interest in comparison with histologically unremarkable biliary epithelium present in the same biopsies. Clinical, surgical, radiologic and pathologic follow up data were obtained for all 14 cases.
Results: Follow up data showed 9 cases to be adenocarcinomas and 5 cases to be benign. In the malignant group, the following staining patterns in atypical or suspicious cells in the initial bile duct biopsies were observed: S100P-positive/IMP3-positive/pVHL-negative or reduced (n=5), S100P-positive/IMP3-negative/pVHL-negative or reduced (n=3), and S100P-positive/IMP3-positive/pVHL-positive (n=1). In the benign group, 2 biopsies showed a S100P-positive/IMP3-negative/pVHL-positive pattern. In the remaining 3 biopsies that showed a S100P-positive/IMP3-positive/pVHL-negative or reduced pattern, the atypical cells were histologically dysplastic.
Conclusions: Bile duct adenocarcinoma frequently shows positive IMP3 staining and negative or reduced pVHL staining. This staining pattern can also be seen in dysplastic epithelium in the absence of invasive carcinoma. When IMP3 is negative, positive S100P with reciprocal loss or reduction of pVHL staining is also indicative of malignancy. On the contrary, benign biliary epithelium typically lacks IMP3 staining and retains normal pVHL expression. These results indicate that an immunopanel consisting of S100P, IMP3 and pVHL can be helpful in aiding in the interpretation of bile duct biopsies with atypical histology or suspicious for malignancy.
Category: Liver & Pancreas
Wednesday, March 2, 2011 9:30 AM
Poster Session V # 200, Wednesday Morning


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How many tests are offered?
There are 34 separate CLEP examinations. The Master's College offers them all. Since they are on computer, each test is available at every test session.
Tell me about each test. What are the subjects?
Answers to these questions can be found on the CLEP website at www.collegeboard.com/clep. View descriptions of each test. You can purchase a copy of the CLEP Study Guide, with sample questions for all tests, or purchase for download sample questions for selected tests.
Who may take the tests?
The Master's College is an "open" testing location. Anyone can apply to take a test with us.
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Each college or university sets its own CLEP policy regarding how much credit will be granted and for which courses. Contact the Admissions Office of the concerned college for information on which tests they accept and the score they require for credit. Also ask if there are other additional requirements before credit is granted.
How is the test conducted?
All CLEP examinations are offered only via a computer workstation. Tests consist of multiple-choice questions (some fill in) and are 90 minutes long, with the exception of College Composition which requires two online essays for a total of 120 minutes.
When can I take a test?
Tests are offered at 1 pm and 3 pm Monday through Thursday (schedule subject to change). Testing is by appointment only. It is advisable to call for an appointment at least one week before your desired test date.
What does it cost?
CLEP charges a fee of $80 payable when you take the test (American Express, Visa, MasterCard, Discover credit card or personal check/money order).This test fee is waived for active duty members of the US military. The Master's College charges a non-refundable and non-transferable $30 administrative fee to non-students (TMC students $15), payable when you reserve your appointment.
Can I take more than one test?
You may take more than one examination the same day if the testing schedule permits. Charges apply separately to each test. Inform the Administrator when you schedule your tests that you desire to take more than one test.
When do I get my scores?
You receive your score immediately upon completion of your test. The exception is tests with an essay. Essays are read and graded twice a month. The official transcript of your score will be sent to your institution by CLEP, usually within one week. You may "hold" your score report if you desire by selecting "Do Not Send" on the list of colleges. One transcript recipient may be selected at no cost on the day of testing; transcripts may be sent later at a nominal cost.
Can I repeat a test if I desire to obtain a higher score?
CLEP policy requires a candidate to wait six months before repeating a test. Consult your college for their policy.
How do I prepare for the test? What do I study?
CLEP tests are challenging and preparation is strongly recommended. The Master's College does not endorse any particular study methods or material, but see here for an overview on CLEP preparation.
How do I get to The Master's College?
Get directions to TMC. The college cannot be accessed via Placerita Canyon from the east due to a key-card gate near Sierra Highway. Note that San Fernando Road is renamed Newhall Avenue and changes to Railroad Avenue at the railroad tracks. The tests are administered in the Career Services office (Building 6 on the Campus Map), which is located behind the main administration building--Rutherford Hall--easily identified by the three flag poles in front. Free parking is available in lots on either side of Placerita Canyon Road.
More information is available on the CLEP website at www.collegeboard.com/clep.


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Translate this page Amber Alert called off after 12-year-old boy found in OceansideMonday, March 10th, 2014 Issue 11, Volume 18.
Yesterday, a mass text message to all phones throughout Southern California was sent out, issuing an Amber Alert for a missing child. At 2:40 p.m., the CHP sent out a tweet saying that officers had found the boy and taken his mother into custody, according to a report from the LA Times. No other details were released. LONG BEACH - An Amber Alert was just sent via text message from the Advertisement Nicholas Johnston, 12, was last seen on March 6 in Long Beach, CA. The suspect is Sri Johnston. Johnston is possibly driving a tan, 1998 Saturn 4-door sedan. License plate number: 4AUU679. If seen or located, please contact the Long Beach Police Department at (562) 570-9650. Nicholas Johnston Age now: 12-years-old Sex: Male Skin: White Hair: Blonde Eyes: Blue Height: 4 feet 8 inches Weight: 80 pounds Suspect: Sri Johnston Age now: 49-years-old Sex: Female Skin: White Hair: Brown Eyes: Brown Height: 5 feet 1 inch Weight: 125 pounds 3 comments
Thank goodness this ended, as it appears, in a good way.
Would it not be nice to have a mass text announcing the boy was found?
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Exaggerated pride in masculinity, perceived as power, often coupled with a minimal sense of responsibility and disregard of consequences. In machismo there is supreme valuation of characteristics culturally associated with the masculine and a denigration of characteristics associated with the feminine. It has for centuries been a strong current in Latin American politics and society. Caudillos (military dictators), prominent in the history of Latin America, have typified machismo with their bold and authoritarian approach to government and their willingness to employ violence to achieve their ends.
This entry comes from Encyclopædia Britannica Concise.
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Set Office 2007 to save automatically to the older 2000/XP/2003 format
The attached zip sets Word, Excel and Powerpoint to save in the previous Office format by default by modifying the registry.
The Free IT Support Engineers Toolkit
(If you are looking for first-class IT support in London, please feel free to contact us)
We carry around a lot of software on our USB keys these days in order to assist in doing our job. Here is the main selection of the software we keep on it.
Installations for New PC's
Standard to all
- PDF Viewer - Adobe Reader - Standard PDF Reader (or the faster Foxit PDF Reader)
- PDF Writer - PDFCreator - easily creates PDFs from any Windows program. Use it like a printer.
- Zip - built in since XP (or 7-Zip - Supports ZIP,RAR and many others and it's own 7z format is hard to beat.)
- Antivirus -NOD32 - The only antivirus we recommend. (there is also the FOSS ClamWin Antivirus - doesn't provide on access realtime scanning)
- Internet search - Google Desktop - easy access to information on your computer and from the web.
- Diagnosis/Support - RunPCRun Total Support - Handy to have our support package!
- In place for repair work
- Malware - HijackThis and Ad-aware
- Drive imager - DriveImage XML or Acronis True Image
- Background
- .NET Framework - allows end-users to run .NET applications.
- Java Runtime Environment - allows end-users to run Java applications.
- De-crap "Home" PC's - PC Decrapifier
MSN and Hotmail no longer working with AOL
Sometime in the last two weeks my father had overnight been unable to access MSN, Hotmail and Windows Updates. The problem also extended to him not being able to connect to me using the NTR remote connection software that we use, however he did still have VNC installed.
Once he connected to me via reverse VNC and I'd confirmed that he had made no changes to system, been hijjacked or infected. We left it overnight to see if it was a transient problem.
It wasn't. He is with AOL broadband and apparently they have have made some changes.
The MTU settings in the Netgear router they supplied are the source of the problem.
This is how to fix it:
- Locate the control panel for your Netgear router, standard address ** is http://192.168.0.1
- Open a web browser and log in to the control panel, standard username and password are admin and password
- Scroll down the left hand side and find the menu option called Advanced Setup and then click on WAN Setup
- Scroll down that page and find the option MTU and change the value in the box to 1400 (it was set to 1458)
- Apply the settings - this also reboots the router - and you're all done.
** if it is not at the standard address you can find it out by determining your default gateway.
On a Windows machine:
- Go to Start, then Run (or use the search box in Vista) and type in cmd then press enter.
- In the black window that pops up type in ipconfigand press enter.
- In the results that follow the Default Gateway is clearly listed, make a note of this and return to the steps above.
On a Apple machine see this article: How to find your router on an Apple Mac
UK Internet Service Provider (ISP) Status
Very useful set of pages where there is an up to date status page for the important UK Internet Service Providers.
How to set up your first office with little money and no technical expertise
I get a few people ask me (usually in social situations where I'm trying to think about anything other than work!), "What is the cheapest office set-up I can do?" for their new small business. runPCrun are many things, and while we believe we are the best solution considering time,cost and quality, we happily admit we're not necessarily the cheapest solution and this can be important when starting a cash-starved first business. After all, engineer time costs money, and custom solutions can take plenty of time and work, especially when having to consider existing infrastructure, user ability, the budget for the coming year and so forth.
However, if you don't have an existing solution, you have the opportunity to start afresh without having to worry about legacy issues or other issues about moving and migrating your data. This is the viewpoint I will be addressing this article from. (as migrations are a whole different ball game). That, or you just do it yourself and get your hands dirty!
The solutions I am presenting are cheap, and they can all be set up with little or no technical expertise.
There are many cheap broadband solutions these days. Just remember that a lot of these cheap or free broadband offers are great when they work, but can cause grief when they don't. If price is your main criteria then great, but don't expect A1 service if/when there is a problem. We believe since broadband is important these days it's worth going with a quality supplier,and you can find them here at ISPreview.co.uk. (We personally recommend Andrews and Arnold* for a good service and reliability and BeThere* for fast, unmetered and cheap)
Broadband is very easy to install these days, a supplier will simply send you a pre-configured router which you just plug in. If you need to migrate suppliers remember to ask for a "MAC code" (a migration code that helps the move become quicker and easier)
Services like Skype and Gizmo give you the ability to send and receive calls from your PC, including extra features such as voicemail. VoIP providers like VoIPTalk or A&A will do the same service, and will allow you to use VoIP phones which sit like regular phones on your desks. Lastly there is the Voxhub service which can give even more options in line with expensive PBX systems when you have more than one employee or multiple phones and wish to have IVR menus and much, much more.
Something else we've found useful about all of these services is that small businesses often move several times in their early stages (they start in their house, then get a small office, then move to a bigger office etc). VoIP technologies prevent your phone number being tied to your physical location, thereby making such office moves much simpler.
Lastly, there are the normal phone suppliers and the dial-through comparison service - the International Call Checker for those using existing technology and trying keeping costs down.
There are plenty of Fax to Email services for that odd occasion you may need to send or receive one of these "pre-email era messages". Don't buy a fax machine, buy a scanner! If you just want fax to email, you can request a FREE UK fax number courtesy of Andrews and Arnold.
Email, calendar, website
Buy your domain name through Google via Google Apps for Your Domain, and you can instantly have a domain name, calendar and simple website creator. This solution will fit most non-IT based small businesses extremely well. Also included is Google Docs and Spreadsheets, with which you can keep your documents with Google, negating the need for your own infrastructure for storing, backing up and accessing your documents on-site or remotely. All you need is a web browser and a broadband connection! (Recently I've also noticed Zoho appear on the scene, and seems well worth a look.)
- Google Mail - Fast, searchable email with less spam.
- Google Calendar - Organise your schedule and share events.
- Zoho
Office and other software
Using Open Office instead of Microsoft Office can literally save you hundreds of pounds/dollars per PC. Just make sure you save in the Word Document format (or PDF) if you are sending documents to other people. Here are some training videos if you want to see how easy it is to use, and it's pretty similar to Microsoft Office in my opinion. Or use the aforementioned Google Docs and Spreadsheets which will ask which format you'd like when you send the document. For everything else there's usually an open source or free alternative.
- Google Docs - Create and share documents on-line and access them from anywhere
- Basecamp - Project management and collaboration. Collaborate with your team and clients. Schedules, tasks, files, messages, and more.
- Highrise - On-line contact manager and simple CRM. Keep track of who your business talks to, what was said, and what to do next.
- Backpack - Information organizer and calendar. Gather your ideas, to-dos, notes, photos & files on-line. Set email and mobile reminders.
- Google Maps - View maps and directions
You must not forget to backup - period. If you can't trust yourself to backup your vital data to CD or USB Flash, then subscribe to one of the many data backup services. Mozy/MozyPro seem to be a good company, as well as BackupDirect* and Data Deposit Box.
Get into the wise computing mindset as well as setting up your office well at the start (with guidelines such as these) and you will be enjoying productive computing for many years to come. Good luck!
* means there is some referral or partnership with these suppliers via the links given. Check out our stance on reviews and recommendations.
WalkPCWalk - results
RunPCRun participated in Crusaid's Walk for Life on Sunday 10th June. We raised a total of £748 ($1,470).
So a big "Well Done and Thank You" to everyone that sponsored us.
If you still have some money burning a hole in your pocket, feel free to donate to our favourite charity - The International Community of Women with HIV/AIDS


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Published on Brock University (http://www.brocku.ca)
English Language & Literature
PhD Alberta
Areas of Specialization
Mathew R. Martin is Full Professor in the Department of English Language and Literature at Brock University. His primary research area is Elizabethan and Jacobean drama, especially Christopher Marlowe and Ben Jonson. His early work focused on early modern constructions of truth in Jacobean city comedy, specifically Ben Jonson and Thomas Middleton. His recent work has focused on the relationship between tragedy and trauma in Marlowe and other early modern English dramatists such as William Shakespeare and John Ford. He has just completed an edition of Marlowe's Doctor Faustus: The B Text (Broadview Press) and is currently editing The Famous Victories of Henry the Fifth for Queen's Men Editions and Marlowe's Tamburlaine the Great Parts One and Two for Broadview Press. His next project is an exploration of Christopher Marlowe and the modern editorial tradition. Martin has also published poetry in Contemporary Verse 2, Jones Av., The Prairie Journal, Arc Poetry Magazine, Other Voices, The Fiddlehead, and other literary journals.
Selected recent publications
Martin, Mathew R. ed. and intro. Tamburlaine the Great Part One and Part Two. By Christopher Marlowe. Peterborough, ON: Broadview Press, 2014.
Martin, Mathew R."Inferior Readings: The Transmigration of 'Material' in Tamburlaine the Great." Early Theatre 17.2 (December 2014): 57-75.
Martin, Mathew R. ed. and intro. Doctor Faustus: the B Text. By Christopher Marlowe. Peterborough, ON: Broadview Press, 2013.
Martin, Mathew R. "The Traumatic Realism of Christopher Marlowe's The Massacre at Paris." English Studies in Canada 37.3-4 (September/December 2011): 25-39.
Martin, Mathew R. "Accidents Happen: Roger Barnes's 1612 Edition of Marlowe's Edward the Second." Early Theatre 16.1 (June 2013): 97-118.
Martin, Mathew R. "Space, Plague, and Satire in Ben Jonson's The Alchemist." The Alchemist: A Critical Guide. Ed. Erin Julian and Helen Ostovich. In the Continuum Renaissance Drama Series. London: Continuum, 2013. 104-126.
Martin, Mathew R. "The Raw and the Cooked in John Ford's 'Tis Pity She's a Whore." Early Theatre 15.2 (December 2012): 131-146.
Martin, Mathew R. "Ben Jonson's Plays 1604-1614." A Handbook of Jonson Studies. Ed. Eugene Giddens. In the Oxford Handbooks of Literature series. Oxford: Oxford University Press, forthcoming 2013.
Martin, Mathew R. "Pious Aeneas, False Aeneas: Marlowe's Dido, Queen of Carthage and the Gift of Death." Early Modern Literary Studies 16.1 (2012).
Martin, Mathew R. ed. and intro. The Jew of Malta. By Christopher Marlowe. Peterborough, ON: Broadview Press, 2012.
Martin, Mathew R. ed. and intro. Edward the Second. By Christopher Marlowe. Peterborough, ON: Broadview Press, 2010.
Martin, Mathew. "'This tragic glass': Tragedy and Trauma in Tamburlaine Part One ." Staging Pain, 1500-1800: Violence and Trauma in British Theatre . Ed. and intro. James Allard and Mathew Martin. Aldershot: Ashgate, 2009.
Allard, James and Mathew R. Martin ed. and intro. Staging Pain, 1500-1800: Violence and Trauma in British Theatre. Aldershot: Ashgate, 2009.
Martin, Mathew. "Maltese Psycho: Tragedy and Psychopathology in The Jew of Malta ." LIT: Literature Interpretation Theory 19.4 (October 2008): 367-387.
Martin, Mathew. "The Name of the Father in 'On My First Sonne': Ben Jonson and the Work of Mourning." Ben Jonson Journal 15.2 (November 2008): 159-174.
Martin, Mathew. "Wasting Time in Ben Jonson's Epicoene ." Studies in Philology 105.1 (Winter 2008): 83-102.
Martin, Mathew. "Plays of Passion: Pain, History, and Theatre in Marlowe's Edward II ." The Sacred and Profane in English Renaissance Literature . Ed. Mary Papazian. London: Associated University Presses; Newark: University of Delaware Press, 2008. 84-107.
Martin, Mathew. "Jack Wilton and the Jews: The Ambivalence of Anti-Semitism in Thomas Nashe's The Unfortunate Traveller ." The Mysterious and the Foreign in Early Modern England . Ed. Helen Ostovich, Graham Roebuck and Mary Silcox. London: Associated University Presses; Newark: University of Delaware Press, 2008. 89-102.
Hopkins, Lisa and Mathew R. Martin ed. and intro. Middleton. Early Modern Literary Studies Special Issue 11 (January 2003).
Dyck, Paul and Mathew R. Martin ed. and intro. Constructions of the Early Modern Subject. Early Modern Literary Studies Special Issue 9 (January 2002).
Martin, Mathew R. Between Theater and Philosophy: Skepticism in the Major City Comedies of Ben Jonson and Thomas Middleton . London: Associated University Presses; Newark: University of Delaware Press, 2001.
Martin, Mathew. "Play and Plague in Ben Jonson's The Alchemist." English Studies in Canada 26.4 (December 2000): 393-408.


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Select () or exclude () categories to narrow your recipe search.
As you select categories, the number of matching recipes will update.
Find exactly what you're looking for with the web's most powerful recipe filtering tool.
I live in the country near a small town. My husband is the love of my life. He's a good sport with my recipe experiments. Most of the time he likes what I make. I can always tell 'cause if he doesn't like it he won't go for seconds which he almost always does.
I have 2 stepsons that are all grown up. One is in college & the other is in the Army. I'm very proud of both of them. I love to bake but don't do it much anymore since there's only 2 of us.
I'm trying to cook a little more healthy. That can really be a challenge. I love the recipes on this site. So many ideas! The one thing I really don't like to do though is use low or no fat stuff. Most of it is just yucky!!
I don't have a favorite I like lots of different kinds of food. My husband is part Lebonese so his mom likes to bring some Middle Eastern food. I liked the stuffed grape leaves and absolutely love baklava ( good thing I only get that once or twice a year.


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When the University of Reading reviewed its personal development planning for students, the recommended use of e-portfolios led to the development of a VLE-based e-portfolio tool. When students struggled with some of the tool's features, the JISC-funded DEVELOP project helped to improve its uptake and ease of use. A successful pilot with academic staff and students showed a lower failure rate and considerable time savings as a result.
The University of Reading is ranked as one of the UK's 20 most research-intensive universities and is in the top 1% of universities in the world. It currently has 16,724 students from 125 different nationalities and over 4,000 members of staff. The University has a track record of excellent work in relation to technology enhanced learning starting with the introduction of its Blackboard VLE in 2000. Its focus on student-centred learning led to a review of personal development planning which recommended the use of e-portfolios. In response the university developed a VLE-
"The existing templates provided make it very difficult to edit information". Student
based e-portfolio tool, iLearn. Academic Schools were encouraged to populate their bespoke iLearn area with useful and timely information such as placement opportunities or forthcoming events. Students were able to create portfolios and share these with tutors, careers advisors and study advisors.
"Make it more interactive because presently it feels like I'm typing a word document which no-one else will ever read and so it feels pointless". Student
e-Portfolios generally offer students a way to keep track of their development, and can serve as a body of evidence about skills and abilities when it comes to career opportunities. However, feedback from Reading students showed that Blackboard's built-in e-portfolio system confused many of them, in terms of creating pages, formatting the content and embedding pictures and other media. This meant that introductions to modules had too much of a technical bent and students were not spending enough time thinking about the work they had to do over the year or learning about the purpose and good practices associated with keeping an e-portfolio. Although an e-learning team member was present for some introductory workshops, the focus on these technical aspects of the tool frustrated its purpose – namely, to ease the tracking of development, the collection of evidence, and the recording of reflection. Furthermore, the feedback mechanism, which allows a reviewer to leave comments at the end of the portfolio, was only really suited to providing generic feedback, and not well suited for use in either formative or summative assessment scenarios.
A previous attempt to roll out personal development planning across the entire University had run into problems.
Within the JISC DEVELOP project the team at Reading looked at improving the portfolio experience for staff and students, enabling the tool to be better used as a teaching and learning resource. Using an agile development approach (as illustrated in figure 1) the team developed software according to the requirements set out by academic staff. The resulting e-portfolio templates and e-portfolio feedback tools were subsequently piloted by academic staff and students to evaluate their use and get feedback.
"Engagement with academic and support stakeholders was critical to the project." Maria Papaefthimiou, DEVELOP project manager
Figure 1, e-portfolio process diagram
The e-portfolio templates widget includes just-in-time help and bespoke questionnaires and provides students with a clear framework within which to work in their portfolios. It automatically creates the pages and templates required. The structure of these frameworks is determined by the course instructors.
Although the tool was designed for use with the institution's Blackboard VLE, the scripts could, with some modification, work with other environments. The script itself creates a frameset within which the VLE interface can be seen. Much of the script then detects what the user is doing with the interface, extracts relevant information about the e-portfolios and, where relevant, adds useful elements such as buttons and drop-down menus for access to extra features. The new widget acts as a layer that sits on top of Blackboard's existing built-in e-portfolio tool which can still be accessed without these additional features.
Overall, the project used two different system architectures; a traditional server based plugin and a client side script. The e-portfolio tools were constructed with the latter approach to allow for potential re-use in other VLEs and further development in a rapidly changing technological environment.
The e-Portfolio feedback widget builds on this approach by building a layer on top of the student's actual portfolio, as opposed to the interface. As with the templates widget, the portfolio itself remains unaffected, so students can chose to access, view and use their portfolios without the widget. The widget allows tutors to attach notes and comments to particular parts of the student's portfolio.
The e-portfolio templates and feedback widgets enable students to take ownership of their learning by providing "just in time" help and a tutor-initiated structure or scaffold to get them started. The feedback widget is designed to enable tutor and peer support.
The "just in time" help wizard has reduced the support time required by students - down from approximately an hour to about ten minutes at most. This means they can engage much more with the purpose and practice of maintaining an e-portfolio. Additionally, the tool provides students with a simpler experience, and removes many of the frustrations they were previously reporting
"The e-portfolio template widget works even under the pressure of the first weeks at university. We ran seven workshops for 200 students, got them to launch the widget and it worked. What used to take an hour to set up now takes minutes." Guy Pursey, project officer
The e-portfolio templates and feedback widgets enable integration and alignment of teaching and learning with assessment by providing tutor-initiated structure or scaffold to get students started in thinking about the assessment requirements. There is evidence to suggest that by having this structure ready-made and in place, students are clearer about assessment requirements and more free to consider and reflect on their implications. The feedback widget enables tutors to provide more targeted feedback. While evaluation of this aspect is still underway the team has already completed a successful trial with the department of legal skills (see sidebar). Louise Hague, a teaching fellow of the University's School of Law, comments on the effects of the improved portfolio tool on the marks for the careers portfolio: "There has been a much lower failure rate this time round which I can attribute to the increased focus on teaching of the content during the session rather than building the portfolios. In terms of the structure of the portfolios there have been far fewer issues with regard to missing items. The number of queries received in the run up to the deadline were also significantly reduced in number compared to other years. Out of a 185 there was only 1 student whose portfolio I could not access – usually it is around 10%. So from my perspective it has been very successful so far!"
"The main benefit for both the students and me has been the reduced amount of time spent building the portfolio and thus the increased amount of time spent teaching the students about the content required" Louise Hague, Teaching Fellow, School of Law
"The DEVELOP widget would not only have enhanced my efficiency, but would also have allowed to me spend more time producing the actual content of my Legal Skills Portfolio – undoubtedly improving my engagement with the aims of the module." Edward Bates, DEVELOP student participant
The code for both widgets is available here: http://code.google.com/p/developreading/downloads/list
The project blog: http://blogs.reading.ac.uk/develop/


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Kristen Corbosiero
Assistant Professor
College of Arts and Sciences
Department: Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences
Tropical cyclones; hurricanes; cloud formation; monsoons
Campus phone: 442-5852
Campus email: email@example.com
Corbosiero studies the structure and intensity change of tropical cyclones using both observational data sets, such as aircraft reconnaissance, and lightning, and high-resolution numerical models. She is interested in understanding the physical processes responsible for the formation of hurricane rainbands and secondary eyewalls, and how tropical cyclones respond to, and evolve in, vertical wind shear.
In addition, Corbosiero is leading an ongoing research collaboration between the National Weather Service and UAlbany's Department of Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences, which is providing valuable insights into extreme weather as it trains the next generation of forecasters. The project focuses on the occurrence and prediction of high-impact weather events in the Northeastern United States. Such events, which include damaging winds and hail, widespread and localized flooding, and heavy snow and ice accumulations, have the potential to cause substantial societal and economic disruption.
The research has shed light on such subjects as hurricane-related heavy rainfall, the distribution of small-scale heavy snow bands, and the processes that govern the occurrence and location of severe weather. Research findings are transferred directly into daily NWS forecasts and operations.
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