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Limited Quantities Remain!More than thirty-six (36) homes have already sold in the Condominiums at Rivergate. Rivergate offers beauty and quiet comfort on the River. Each home offers its own personality when combining upgrades, privacy, and convenience. All of the homes are two bedroom, one bath, one full car garage, and washer/dryer hookup. The enitre community is cared for by a healthy home owners association which takes care of all of your lawn care, landscaping, refuse collection, snow removal, and more. All remaining Townhomes are priced from $74,900 through $89,900. With all new interiors, new appliances, and new roofs, you will be hard pressed to find a more cost economical home in Central Ohio!
Condominiums at RiverGate, Delaware's Newest Townhouse Condominium community is located on the beautiful Olentangy River, minutes from downtown Delaware, Ohio Wesleyan and Rt. 23. Rivergate is located off Stratford Road approximately 1.2 miles off US Rt. 23.
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SAN DIEGO, October 8, 2012 – It is a shockingly familiar story.
A week ago, Mary Shojai was bludgeoned to death after she tried to break off a romantic relationship with her boyfriend. Paul Carl Tomasini was arrested and pled not guilty to murder for Shojai's death.
Tomasini is alleged to have bludgeoned Shojai to death with a mallet and some heavy candlesticks.
If you have an image of two young people with hormones running wild, you'd be wrong. Shojai was a respected university administrator, 62 years old. Tomasini ran a handyman business, and is 64.
According to the San Diego County deputy district attorney prosecuting the case, Shojai and Tomasini had been dating three years. Shojai apparently tried to break off the relationship. She was scheduled to pick up a friend at the airport, but she failed to show up. When Shojai's friend went to her home to find out where she was, she saw Tomasini inside Shojai's home pacing up and down.
Both the friend and Tomasini called police, who found Shojai in a pool of blood on the floor, with the weapons Tomasini used nearby. An autopsy found Shojai had been struck 17 times.
This is much more common than people realize. Domestic violence murders are up 25 percent in Dallas and also in New York City this year. They are also up in many Florida counties, and in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Starting divorce proceedings or initiating the breakup of a romantic relationship is a significant trigger for domestic violence. The statistics speak for themselves:
- Violence is the reason stated for one in five divorces.
- Battered women seek medical attention for domestic violence injuries significantly more often after separation than during cohabitation.
- About 75% of the visits to emergency rooms by battered women occur after separation.
- Women who leave their batterers are at 75% greater risk of severe injury or death than those who stay. (Source: National Coalition Against Domestic Violence).
The two weeks after a woman files for divorce or initiates a breakup, cohabiting or not, is the time she is at greatest risk.
What should you do to protect yourself from being a victim BEFORE you file for divorce or initiates a breakup? You need to create an exit strategy. If there are children involved, it is even more critical to take precautions.
First, be sure you have a safe place to stay for a few weeks after you deliver the news about breaking up. Consider getting out ahead of time so you don't have to return to the home you share. It may be wise to stay with a relative or a friend, out of town or somewhere your husband or boyfriend doesn't know about. At the least, consider changing all of the locks on your residence if you don't live together.
Deliver the news in a public place. You don't want to humiliate someone, but with witnesses around the individual is far less likely to fly into a rage and harm you. If you've made sure you have a safe place for you and your children to go, you're putting time and distance on your side until the other person can cool down.
Be especially careful going to and from your place of work. If you aren't able to be located any other way, someone who wants to threaten you or do you bodily harm likely knows where you work and what times you arrive and leave. Take extra precautions. Ask security to escort you in and out of the building. Choose a different way to get to work or a different form of transportation. If you have time off available, consider using it.
I'm often asked whether women should get a restraining order first. Restraining orders are just pieces of paper; they will not magically protect you from someone so angry he or she would consider seriously harming you. Don't count on one to keep you safe.
However, once you have initiated the breakup, a restraining order may provide law enforcement an additional tool to help you. Most states offer different types of restraining orders. In California, there are four types to protect victims and their families.
If you believe the situation has the potential to become extremely threatening or violent, consider putting yourself and your children into a shelter. If at anytime you feel unsafe call 911, stop a police officer in the street, or go to the nearest police station.
Maybe this drastic advice seems a little over the top to you. Perhaps you think it will seem foolish to take these kind of serious steps when nothing really bad has ever happened before. You should not hesitate. If there was ever a "better safe than sorry" moment, this is it. Crime statistics tells us that women need to be especially cautious when breaking up with someone or initiating a divorce. The risk to you and your children is too great to ignore.
Tomasini faces 25 years to life in prison if convicted, and an additional year for each of three weapons allegations lodged against him. But this is small comfort to Tomasini's family, her children, her friends and colleagues who have lost her to a violent act of rage.
Myra Chack Fleischer founded Fleischer & Associates in 2001 and serves as Lead Counsel with a focus on divorce, property, custody and support, settlement agreements, mediation, asset division and family law appeals. Read more Legally Speaking in the Communities at The Washington Times. Follow Fleischer & Associates on Facebook and on Twitter @LawyerMyra
Fleischer can be reached via Google+
Copyright © 2012 by Fleischer & Associates, Attorneys at Law
This article is the copyrighted property of the writer and Communities @ WashingtonTimes.com. Written permission must be obtained before reprint in online or print media. REPRINTING TWTC CONTENT WITHOUT PERMISSION AND/OR PAYMENT IS THEFT AND PUNISHABLE BY LAW.

subset: commoncrawl


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Created: 02/10/2014 12:12 PM WHEC.com
Syracuse is a unanimous No. 1 in The Associated Press college basketball poll for the second straight week while SMU moved into the Top 25 for the first time in almost three decades.
The Orange (23-0) received all 65 first-place votes from the national media panel Monday. Arizona, Florida, Wichita State, San Diego State and Villanova remained second through sixth. Wichita State (25-0) is the only other unbeaten team in Division I.
Kansas moved up one spot to seventh and Duke jumped three spots to eighth. Michigan State and Cincinnati round out the Top Ten.
Wisconsin and Ohio State, Nos. 21 and 22, both returned to the rankings after a one-week absence. SMU, which beat then-No. 7 Cincinnati last week, moved in at No. 23, the Mustangs' first ranking since the next-to-last poll of 1984-85, a season they were ranked as high as No. 2.
Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Gonzaga fell out of the Top 25.
News10NBC/WHEC-TV welcomes your opinion and interaction on our website, but please remember to keep it clean. If you're advertising for another business, being profane, vulgar or slanderous your post will be deleted. By commenting on this website, you agree that anything you post may be used, along with your name and profile picture, in accordance with our Privacy Policy and the license you have granted pursuant to our Terms of Use. Comments are not pre-screened before they posted.


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The most impressive large black leaves with lots of golden tip. Although this tea retains that special 'China Tea sweetness', it has a smooth rich malty character, almost like Assam, but without the heavy tannin taste.
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New Revised Standard (NRS) | New International Version (NIV) |
28 The children of your servants shall live secure; their offspring shall be established in your presence. | 28 The children of your servants will live in your presence; their descendants will be established before you." |
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. (New Revised Standard Bible Version Online) | Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. (New International Version Bible Online) |


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Talk:Pokey Minch
this wiki
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[show]Pokey or Porky?Edit
uhhhhh his real name is porky-188.8.131.52 17:10, 19 May 2008 (UTC)
- No. The literal translation of his Japanese name is Porky. This is an English wiki, and as such everything is referred to by its English title, unless there is none which is the case for some characters and the PSI abilities of Mother 3. Vixen Windstorm 18:11, 19 May 2008 (UTC)
Actually im right his name is Pokey in U.S. because of mistranslation becuase the japanesse could'nt spell Porky in japanesse letters so it sounded like "Po-ki".Nintedo of america changed it when the brot SSBB to the U.S. name.-18.104.22.168 16:57, 21 May 2008 (UTC)
- Yeah that's true, but in virtually every aspect of the English version of Mother universe, the character's name has always been mentioned as "Pokey," with the only exception being his appearance in Brawl. One appearance as a boss in a series that compiles numerous characters from other gaming universes, while remaining canon to those series' only half the time is not notable enough to refer to him as "Porky," even if the name he has come to be known as was was the result of a mistransliteration. Vixen Windstorm 19:48, 21 May 2008 (UTC)
How do you think in brawl he got out of the absolutely safe capsule? in the subspace emissary he is in his bed-mecha did master hand got him out with some hocous pokess?-126.96.36.199 16:43, 23 May 2008 (UTC)
Pokey is an especially devious sort. It wouldn't be a stretch for him to be aware of Andonuts' intended treachery and while the good doctor wasn't looking, taken out the failsafes in the Capsule. He then faked being trapped so as not to arouse suspicion. Or built a duplicate of himself to fight Lucas and co.Doug Exeter (talk) 22:22, August 28, 2014 (UTC)
- I don't know, but like I said the Super Smash Bros. series remains canon to the featured characters' original series' only half the time. There's at least a dozen examples of inconsistencies between the characters' official selves and their Smash versions. Vixen Windstorm 16:59, 23 May 2008 (UTC)
I think Pokey was jelous of ness cuase he had a loving family and pokey had an abusive one and he ran away travled through time and ruled an empire and brainwashing pepole that he was great mabe all he wanted was atenttion-22.214.171.124 16:23, 20 June 2008 (UTC)
- Hold on a second...doesn't all the pig-related stuff make a LOT more sense if his name is Porky? Though I guess since the wordplay didn't exist in the Japanese language, that's probably a coincidence or something...but what a coincidence o_O. Unless I've missed something; I suspect I have. Someone enlighten me? :P A.K.A : Evil Overlord of Randomness. 11:19, 12 December 2008 (UTC)
- The wordplay would make more sense if he were referred to as 'Porky', but this is a wiki directed towards an English audience. Because of that, English sources take precedence over Japanese ones, regardless of whatever meaning was attempted to be conveyed in the original material. The only Mother game Pokey appears in that has been localized by Nintendo is EarthBound, however this adaption loses in translation the character's truly intended name. Super Smash Bros. Brawl uses the Japanese transliterations of Mother 3 material (Porky, Tazumili Village), and the English version of Mother 3 is an unofficial attempt to capture the most precise vision of an English Mother 3 (Tomato actually discusses in the project's production notes his inner conflict when making the decision which name to use for the translation). So again, because this is an English wiki, the name used in official English source material is used. The order of what takes precedence over what should go something like:
- EarthBound (the only officially translated and marketed game in the series) → Earth Bound (or what most people call EarthBound Zero, officially translated into English but never marketed) → Mother 3 translation (unofficial, but developed by professionals and true to its foreign source) → Japanese games. Vixen Windstorm 03:26, 13 December 2008 (UTC)
- And presumably EarthBound also beats out Super Smash Bros. Brawl...so basically, EarthBound being the only officially translated Mother game, gets precedence over everything, and he was Pokey in that. Righty, thanks! That clears quite a bit up ^_^ A.K.A : Evil Overlord of Randomness. 10:27, 13 December 2008 (UTC)
The Idea StealerEdit
I personally think Pokey stole too many ideas from Giygas. Play through Chapter 8 of Mother 3 and you'll see why.
Giygas, if he was included in the game, would have been so proud of him. Beta Knight 21:54, 3 February 2009 (UTC)
Well the gamemakers like referencing past games,so I can see why it's like that.
did you guys know that in a restaurant in new pork city called "beauty and tasty" all the robots in there are designed after pokey's mother, i think you guys should add that to the article.
Judging from how his own parents treated him, Pokey's envy of Ness probably extended to him having nicer parents as well. So he likely appropriated the image of Ness' mom for these robots.Doug Exeter (talk) 22:37, August 28, 2014 (UTC)
Pokey does resemble the esper children of Akira--EsperPokey 11:31, September 12, 2009 (UTC)
Sad For Pokey Edit
When I saw that Pokey got stuck in a capsule for all eternity, I felt sad. If you seriously went "YAY!" when Pokey got locked in the capsule forever, you must be crazy. How would YOU like it if you had eternal life and got locked in a capsule until Year Infinity? 18.104.22.168 01:09, April 26, 2010 (UTC)
When i saw the capsule, i was like "O_o" and then i thought to myself "Hah, PSI Love Omega can break anything, along with Starstorm", but my plan backfired. D:
[[1]] 13:45, June 20, 2010 (UTC)
I can understand how mirable it is that Pokey will be living for eternity inside that capsule. I would rather kill him.
126.96.36.199 13:53, March 31, 2012 (UTC)eveezelda13
Honestly, it's not just the fact that he trapped himself in the Absolutely Safe Capsule; EVERYTHING about this kid makes me sad. How? I'll count the ways:
- Almost no friends.
- Neglectful and possibly abusive parents.
- Still wanted to be Ness' friend, even after he had become the Pig King.
- Seemed kinda misunderstood.
There. This is why I would not classify Porky as "evil" and why I'm sorry for him. YoungOtakuNerd (talk) 07:04, July 23, 2013 (UTC)
Name of Article Edit
Rekindling what appears to be an old debate, I wish to ask the members of EB wiki their opinion, though I'm already pretty sure about this. Now, in most cases I take the Mother 3 translations (see the PK Freeze page, for example) but the problem I have is, Pokey is never officially, canonically called Porky. Though Tomato's translation is brilliant, I simply cannot take it as official when an official translation has previously said Pokey. Brawl is non canon, however, so it referring to Pokey as Porky can also not be taken as official. I have made the tentative decision to keep the name as Pokey, and just use Porky in Mother 3 sections. If there is ever an official nintendo translation of Mother 3 which calls him Porky, then by all means we will move the article to this name. Opinions? -Stars talk 19:43, April 6, 2011 (UTC)
To be honest, I was actually wondering if there was a debate on this topic so I wandered here. Despite my bias in favor of 'Porky' (it makes more sense than New Poke City), I agree with what you said about the name not being canonically official. The way I see it now, someone (I might be able to, if the majority reading this see this as a good idea and I work up the nerve) has to check with the sources who can state that the names are official to settle the debate. My 1st guess for places to send the inquiry would be Itoi's offce (on this part of the Starmen.net site, it shows that someone in Itoi's office knows a bit of English) and then Nintendo of {Insert country here}. They could probably give the definitive answer, so I'm putting this out as a half response to From Beyond the Stars and half question to everyone reading this: Would this idea work? Ant1pr0t0n 05:56, May 1, 2011 (UTC)
Clay Model Edit
Does anyone know what exactly his clay model is holding? I think adding that would be beneficial to the page. (My best guess would be a white bag in one hand and the tail from a Tanooki Suit in the other, which makes no sense.) Ant1pr0t0n 05:58, May 24, 2011 (UTC)
I think it's a bottle of Chocolate Milk that he has in his right hand and a bag of candy in his left hand. I hope that helped!:D User:Pkstarstorm1up 10:52, June 18, 2011 (UTC)
I agree with the bag of candy, but I'm not sure about the chocolate milk...maybe this shouldn't go in the article, and let people think for themselves on this one. Ant1pr0t0n (Talk) 03:02, June 19, 2011 (UTC)
- I'm thinking now that it's a bag in one hand and binoculars in the other, considering they saw the meteor and all. Ant1pr0t0n (Talk) 01:31, September 3, 2011 (UTC)
- I think the thing in his right hand is a slingshot. YoungOtakuNerd (talk) 01:48, July 24, 2013 (UTC)
References Edit
For some reason, the reference template wasn't working for me, so I had to cobble together something that would work in a similar manner (but viewing the page in code view makes it look terrible). Is anyone good at implementing Wikia's notes on the matter? Ant1pr0t0n (Talk) 15:29, June 18, 2011 (UTC)
Porky's age was changed from "unverifiably old" to "1,000 to 10,000 years old" during Mother 3. Does anyone know where this number comes from? It sounds familiar, but I can't figure out where it comes from. Ant1pr0t0n (Talk) 01:31, September 3, 2011 (UTC)
Kill or let him live? Edit
Would you rather kill Porky or would you let him live for eternity inside that capsule? I would rather kill him.188.8.131.52 13:57, March 31, 2012 (UTC)Athenstheowl
Honestly, I can't say either way seems fair; ya either take his life or you make it WORSE! Honestly, I'm a pround member of the Sonic Fanon; and my main FC Erica Sakura has a continuity not only for the Sonic series, but for video games in general. This includes EarthBound; in Erica's continuity, after Mother 3, Ness and Lucas ended up opening the capsule and restoring Porky, giving him a second chance. And don't question that continuity; if Lucas and Ness can both appear in Brawl at the same time, then they can appear in Game World. And don't call me a dumb fangirl either; I genuinely feel sad for little Porky, and if I could give him an official second chance, I would. Sorry if this was too long. YoungOtakuNerd (talk) 01:56, July 24, 2013 (UTC)
Id be inclined to cut Pokey some slack due to being raised by abusive parents. Time Travel is a crucial element to Earthbounds history. And it seems clear Ness and Lucas are there due to being snatched from time and even might not be the avrual Ness, Lucas and Pokey from the games and just counterparts. So with time travel, tons of ways can be made to save Pokey and correct his life.Doug Exeter (talk) 08:00, October 24, 2013 (UTC)
These pages are only for discussion of the article itself, not the article's subject. Please take such discussions like this to the forums. Thank you. -Stars talk 11:20, October 25, 2013 (UTC)
From the Legends of Localization page:
In MOTHER 2, Pokey's dad says they might've lent Ness' family hundreds of trillions of dollars. In EarthBound, he says it was maybe a hundred thousand dollars or so.
The phrasing of the Japanese number, though, is equivalent to saying something like "a hundred million jillion dollars" in English. Why they edited it to be 100,000, which is a very realistic amount of money isn't clear. It might've been a localization goof.
The part about the specific amount that Pokey's family lending a specific amount of money to Ness's family should be removed because it was something just added in by English localization.


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1895 Cajun Cuisine and Pub recently opened in the shopping center near Party Time & Counter Culture. We were originally planning to have lunch at Counter Culture this particular day, but one of my friends Tammy saw this restaurant and asked if we had ever tried this restaurant. Well we decided to give this restaurant a try.
Honestly, as a food blogger, you would have think that I knew about this new place. But, I am shame to say that I had never heard of this place. This past few months have been super busy for me, but I am picking up blogging again. Looking forward to some great places that have opened lately.
Upon entrance into 1895, I must say that I was very impressed with the setup. Nice and clean restaurant with an elegant look. There was a good crowd of people there at lunch time. We were greeted by a friendly young lady who seated us immediately.
She went over the special for the day and left us to look over the menu. The menu was very impressive there was such a variety of options to choose from. Because we had work to do afterwards, I decided to do something light so I wouldn't be stuffed. Lol
I decided on the sausage and chicken gumbo with rice, potato salad and a roll. If a restaurant can cook a good gumbo in my eyes, there other food will be delicious as well. Boy was I correct. The gumbo was superb. The gumbo was prepared with chicken breast that was shredded and andouille sausage. The roux was a beautiful brown. The taste of the roux was not heavy but amazing. The andouille sausage had a little kick. Great spice level.
The rice, potato salad and bread were served on a plate. The potato salad was delicious as well. The bread was a french bread. I am not a fan of french bread but the bread wasn't bad at all.
Daphne tried the special which consisted of pork tender loin or the pork roast with the green beans, yams and bread. Her plate looked amazing. Good ole' creole looking plate. Looking at the picture right now makes me want to go and cook some creole food. Lol.
She said that her food was delicious. It definitely looked awesome! I did taste her yams and the yams were very good. I'm picky about my yams, but it was pretty good. The green beans looked awesome. I think that they were prepared with bacon and a little butter and seasoning. The meat had a beautiful brown color to it and appeared to be juicy and not dry on the inside. This plate was both colorful and presented well.
My friend Tammy had the gumbo as well. She enjoyed her food as well. She decided on the cup of gumbo but even with the cup along with the rice, bread and potato salad wasn't a bad idea. Because it was a nice portion size as well.
Overall 1895 was a nice place. My only complaint was that the chicken and sausage gumbo needed a little more shredded chicken. The food was fantastic. The restaurant is nice and clean. Great set up and friendly employees. I would definitely eat there again. I highly recommend it.
The menu items range from fish tacos, sandwiches to po-boys, burgers. As well as Fish Acadiana, Pork Tenderloin, Tiliapa Lafayette, Appetizers. The list goes on and on.
If you are looking for a quick meal for lunch this is a great place or even if you want a nice restaurant to enjoy with your loved ones or friends. This restaurant offers this versatility.
The food was bought to the table fairly quickly and there are lunch specials to keep you on a budget. I guarantee you won't be disappointed.
The hours of operation for 1895 are Mondays 11am-2pm, Tuesdays- Thursdays 11am-9pm and Fridays-Saturdays 11:00 am-10pm & Sundays 11am-2pm. 1895 is located at 1895 West Pinhook Road, in Lafayette, 534-8955.


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H&M Accessories Fall 2012
Love! Are these on sale now?
This is so chic! I can't believe they're not designer…
The Lovelorn
wow need me those clutches!
Great collection! Love it!
Loving their new collection…a little bit copycat in places but so well done. Love that they are refining their work so much!
I love all of this.
when will these things be available in stores?
So in love!
I can not find a bag of emerald color with gray sides anywhere and black handles as on the first photo ((((


text:
There were only three games on last night's Major League Baseball schedule, which means that there isn't exactly a whole ton of options as far as large new stories go. So, instead of one feature story and a smattering of links, let's go around the league, and check out what's happening to each team with a top post from one of my favourite team blogs.
Does that sound like fun? Are you into it?
Alright. Let's go.
AL East
Baltimore Orioles: The Orioles are on a five game losing streak, but still in first place in the division. Their pitching has let them down during this rough patch, while their offense has produced at a slightly better rate than earlier in the year. [Camden Crazies]
Tampa Bay Rays: How do Rays pitchers perform with two strikes? Do they finish off their batters or continue to give them a sign of life? [DRaysBay]
New York Yankees: Russell Martin's widdle feewings got hurt when home plate umpire Laz Diaz wouldn't let him throw new baseballs to his pitchers. Seriously. [It's About The Money Stupid]
Toronto Blue Jays: First baseman Adam Lind, who including all of this season, is owed $12 million for the next two years, has passed through waivers and is no longer on the 40 man roster. [DJF]
Boston Red Sox: Scott Podsednik led off last night for the Red Sox. That's not even a joke. Well, actually it is, but what I mean to say is that I'm not making that up. [Over The Monster]
AL Central
Chicago White Sox: Plumbing the depth of the Chicago White Sox outfielders. Hint: You don't have to plumb very deep. [South Side Sox]
Cleveland Indians: Being an Indians fan is full of ups (like sweeping the Detroit Tigers) and downs (like getting swept by the Chicago White Sox) as the team searches for some solid ground. [The DiaTribe]
Detroit Tigers: There's little to celebrate for Tigers fans right now, but they did take one away from their series with the Boston Red Sox, avoiding the sweep and further embarrassment. [Bless You Boys]
Kansas City Royals: The Royals' month of May in a nutshell. Figuratively. It's literally in a blog post. [Kings Of Kauffman]
Minnesota Twins: The Twins might not be superstitious, but they definitely are stitious. [Twinkie Town]
AL West
Texas Rangers: The Rangers made the right decision in signing Roy Oswalt. [Baseball Time In Arlington]
Los Angeles Angels Of Anaheim: Why do Angels hitters get thrown so many fastballs? [Monkey With A Halo]
Oakland Athletics: Why do the A's seem so lousy at developing hitters? [Athletics Nation]
Seattle Mariners: Desperate times call for desperate measures as the Mariners should reconsider Carlos Peguero. [Lookout Landing]
NL East
Washington Nationals: The Nationals appear to have found themselves a more legitimate rival in the Miami Marlins than they have with the Philadelphia Phillies. [District On Deck]
Miami Marlins: Are declining ticket prices in the secondary market something for the Marlins to be concerned about? [Marlins Diehards]
New York Mets: The Mets rotation goes under the microscope. [Amazin Avenue]
Atlanta Braves: The Braves defense is now an asset for the team. [Capitol Avenue Club]
Philadelphia Phillies: Is Jonathan Paplebon being used in the most appropriate spots? [Crashburn Alley]
NL Central
Cincinnati Reds: Is it possible for the Reds to win the division while continuing to make outs as often as they've had so far this season? [Red Reporter]
St. Louis Cardinals: Reorganizing the Cardinals' bullpen maybe wouldn't be an exercise in futility. [Viva El Birdos]
Pittsburgh Pirates: A.J. Burnett is pitching very well for the Pirates right now. [Raise The Jolly Roger]
Houston Astros: The series against the Colorado Rockies is best forgotten by the Astros. [Crawfish Boxes]
Chicago Cubs: I love the title of this post: The blind vengeance of a jilted fan base. [View From The Bleachers]
NL West
Los Angeles Dodgers: With Matt Kemp expected to be out for at least four more weeks, the Dodgers face an extended Kemp free existence. [Mike Scioscia's Tragic Illness]
San Francisco Giants: With all the talk about his declining velocity, perhaps we're missing the fact that Tim Lincecum isn't hitting the strike zone nearly as often. [McCovey Chronicles]
Arizona Diamondbacks: Where oh where have the D'Backs' power numbers gone? [AZ Snake Pit]
Colorado Rockies: With four home runs in four straight plate appearances, Carlos Gonzalez is on an incredible roll right now. [Rockies Review]
San Diego Padres: Even Jim Cramer is dissing the Padres right now. [Gaslamp Ball]


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Dear parents,
Happy New Year! I know that 2015 will bring great learning opportunities for our students. Please know that our teachers and staff are committed to helping each child succeed and reach their highest potential in the Kent City Schools.
Last month, I updated our Board of Education on the results of my Entry Plan Survey, which over 170 people completed. Here are quick summaries of the five questions, as well as some of the suggested changes.
- Please describe the culture of your school and the District. What aspects are positive and should be kept, and which components could benefit from change?
Summary: Overall, comments were positive and showed a real awareness that we care about our students. A number of respondents complimented our positive school culture and expressed pride in the District. Change: We can benefit from better communications at all levels.
- What are your hopes and dreams for your school and the District?
Summary: It's clear that everyone supports the positive learning environment at our schools and wants to make sure that our students feel safe, have fun and enjoy learning. Change: Continue to focus on improving graduation rates and maintaining the financial security of the District.
- What is going well at your school and in the District?
Summary: Results included positive comments about each of our schools, which focused on the way each staff works as a team to serve the best interests of students. Change: Continue the commitment to address the ever-growing needs of our students.
- What aspects of your school or the District might benefit from change?
Summary: We received a number of very specific comments and suggestions, which will be reviewed and considered. Change: Review programs, improve communications and promote fresh ideas.
- What expectations do you have of me as your new superintendent?
Summary: Respondents challenged me to evaluate the Kent City Schools program and guide them to the next level by being well informed and proactive. Change: Respondents made their feelings clear—"We need a leader who believes in us and appreciates us—and puts kids first."
Thank you to those who participated for your time and thoughtful responses. If you have further thoughts, please e-mail me at firstname.lastname@example.com or call me at 330-676-7610.
Thank you again for your continued support of the Kent City Schools,
George J. Joseph


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Lifelong friends and Father Judge graduates Dan Brightcliffe and Pat Durison have opened a vegan restaurant in Jenkintown.
In a letter to the editor in last week's Times, a woman named "Jenn Michaelson" claimed that a campaign sign for Dee Adcock, the Republican candidate in the 13th Congressional District, fell onto Woodhaven Road and caused a four-inch-long scratch on her car.
Thursday, October 16
Golf outing set for Oct. 11
Members of the Take Back Your Neighborhood civic association last week heard from a local attorney and the head of Pennsylvania Working Families.
Perhaps the late Frank Zappa best described the relationship between international football and beer: "You can't be a real country unless you have a beer and an airline. It helps if you have some kind of a football team, or some nuclear weapons, but at the very least you need a beer."
Soccer players wanted
Hailed as the world's greatest sporting event, the quadrennial World Cup of men's soccer will be over by the time July 27 rolls along. But for a group of girls soccer players from the Northeast, the international adventure will be just starting.
At an appearance earlier this month at the Rydal Park Continuing Care Retirement Community in Jenkintown, Dr. Valerie Arkoosh gave her insight and analysis of the Affordable Care Act, often referred to as "Obamacare."


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We have found some free mean streets videos and pictures.
What a week for fans of crime dramas that try to raise the bar. Two winners premiering this week are set in USA's midsection — one rural, one urban (which I'm thinking you might have heard about on Super Bowl Sunday) — and they're so good it makes you ... Source: Seattle Post Intelligencer
One of the basic tensions in the premiere episode of The Chicago Code , airing tonight on Fox at 9:00 p.m. Eastern, is embodied in the fact that since I saw the first version of the pilot (then called Ride-Along ) last summer, they've made a few changes ... Source: NPR News
Chicago does not have a "CSI." It's never been granted its own "Law & Order," either, despite the way those two series seem to spin off in a TV version of perpetual regeneration. But there's no reason to feel slighted. The wait for a contemporary police ... Source: Chicago Tribune
After a several-month layoff, the Double L Bar in downtown Rehoboth Beach is set to reprise its "Live At the L" punk rock concert series. The first show of 2011 will also be the club's first freebie event. There will be no cover charge for the 21-and-over ... Source: Delaware Online
We didn't have a lot of resources in the past (couple of days)." Overall, the mayor's appraisal was that conditions on the main arteries were good today -- but that doesn't mean streets off the main roads and most sidewalks are anything approaching pleasant. Source: Indianapolis Star
The revolt that appears to have fatally undermined President Hosni Mubarak's prospects for remaining in power is a domestic affair - Egyptians have taken to the streets to demand change because of economic despair and political tyranny, not the regime's ... Source: YAHOO!
Fluctuating winter weather is taking its toll on Salt Lake Valley's streets. The thaw and freeze cycle means potholes are popping up and public works crews are scrambling to fix them, whether for the short- or long-term. Potholes are caused by moisture ... Source: Salt Lake Tribune
One of them says, "We'll hear her walking!" I think they mean they'll hear her talking - like a baby. And she didn't disappoint. Goo goo ga ga, here she is! Then they all climb on her and go back to the hotel. We learn that Kim has done a fashion shoot. Source: Huffingtonpost.com
That would be 8,000 or 9,000 people out on the streets without jobs," he said. "You think that's not going to affect the economy? What's going to happen if you put that many people out of work?" Source: San Antonio Current
Global warming doesn't necessarily mean warmer weathers," she said ... You can't see around the corner at the end of the streets," said Nicole Reynolds, a junior communications major referring to the large snow banks. "It's a hazard." Source: Daily Collegian


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LLWS Montana Louisiana Baseball
Billings, Mont.'s Ben Askelson (15) hits a double, driving in two runs, off Lafayette, La., pitcher Haden Erbe in the third inning of a baseball game during pool play at the Little League World Series in South Williamsport, Pa., Sunday, Aug. 21, 2011. Catching is Cain Castille. Montana won 3-1. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
August 21, 2011 3:30 pm • Gene J. Puskar


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Benjamin Wu
Born in 1961, Benjamin Wu studied art at the Guangzhou Fine Art Institute in China from 1978 to 1985. Upon completion of the oil painting program in the institute, he became a teacher at the Guangzhou Fine Art Institute. Although he's honored to receive many compliments for his work, he realized one must learn from the best to be the best. That's when he decided to further his studies in the United States.
Benjamin Wu pursued his studies in painting and received his MFA degree from Academy of Art College in San Francisco in 1991. Since then, he worked as a freelance illustrator and continued to pursue fine art. Benjamin Wu's exquisite paintings have garnered many awards in exhibitions and competitions.
Benjamin Wu is represented by:
Biltmore Galleries, Scottsdale, AZ
Greenhouse Gallery, San Antonio, TX
Hayden Hays Gallery, Colorado Springs, CO
Jones and Terwilliger Galleries, Carmel, CA
Waterhouse Gallery, Santa Barbara, CA


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Another week, another confusing episode of everyone's favorite "socially-conscious" cartoon. Just a couple of minor questions on this one:
- We know that Gloria is LeBron's mom's name in real life, and that these four characters are supposed to represent different parts of LeBron's persona. So does Wise LeBron being attracted to cartoon Gloria mean that some part of LeBron has an Oedipus complex?
- LeBron voices the Business character and that character comes to a realization that life isn't all about global domination and making as much money as you can. Is this real LeBron's confession that he's cared to much about becoming a global icon?
- They really kept the lion?
- The moral of the story is ostensibly that staying tight as a family is important. But is the secondary moral that adding women to the mix is a bad idea? Because it kinda seems like that, since Gloria shows herself out while saying "I've upset the balance."
Like I said, confusing. No big deal though. This show isn't aimed at adults, it's for kids. I'm sure they'll get it.


text: Please explain to me the selection of wire diameter, feed rate and gas flow rate. Which is most suitable for welding two different thicknesses of the same material? Example: A 4 mm thick plate to be welded with a 15 mm thick plate. Please let me know the process parameters to be fixed?


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Domestic & General
Domestic & General is the UK's leading warranty specialist and provides warranty services for more than 7 million UK customers. Through its Fido knowledge management project, powered by Eptica, it has transformed customer service by centralising knowledge.
Download Domestic & General Case Study
Eptica Results:
"Fido has helped us achieve our overall business objectives. By introducing Eptica we're not only keeping our customers satisfied but we've also been able to reduce costs."
Chris Briggs, Head of Customer Service, Domestic & General
Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA)
The RSPCA is the world's oldest and largest animal welfare charity and has been looking out for animals since 1824. In its 170 branches, staff and countless volunteers work with endless energy and dedication to look after the tens of thousands of animals that come into its care every year
Download RSPCA Case Study
Eptica Results:
"Over the last few years we've seen a massive growth in the number of people contacting us online. Eptica's technology allows us to investigate and process all the cases reported on our website, quickly and efficiently. Being able to better manage the thousands of enquiries we receive every year helps us to save more animals. It's as simple as that!"
Veronica Morrison, Information and Advice Manager, RSPCA
Ageas selected Eptica's self-learning Email Management technology to improve online service and the efficiency of its customer and partner communication
Eptica results:
Customer enquiry handling time cut by 50% - enquiries which previously took Ageas up to 7 minutes to resolve by phone now take half this time by email
Improved management of customer contact and staff workload has significantly reduced service costs
The Eptica system uses agents' email responses to create a Web Self-service system to enable customers to answer their own questions on your website
Britannia Hotels
Britannia Hotels Group, the largest privately owned hotel chain in the UK, has streamlined its reservation process using Eptica Email and Fax processing technology to cut hotel reservation and customer service costs.
Download Britannia Hotels Case Study
Eptica results:
Eptica, which was rolled out across 33 hotels, resulted in a 16% increase in productivity within 3 months and enabled Britannia Hotels to cut the cost of operating its reservation administration.
La Redoute
Part of the Redcats Group, number 3 worldwide in home shopping
Dealing with thousands of online contacts every day
Eptica results:
Eptica built online self–service customer portal
Increased agent productivity by 40%
Reduced post sales contacts by 30%
Requirement to manage online communication through contact centres and a network of 217 branches
Difficulties with tracking and reporting on email interactions and maintaining service levels
Eptica results:
Customer service agent productivity increased 50%
90% of email enquiries now resolved same day
Detailed insight gained into customer behaviour
Online channel proving to be the fastest growth area for contact centre
Email volumes exceeding 8,000 per day
Existing system not able to cope or provide management and reporting to the level required
Eptica results:
Eptica deployed into live environment within 12 weeks
Multiple brands handled through a single system
Routing, email reply content and branded email templates selected automatically
Significant benefits to customer service and productivity within 3 months


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Laurie Edwards-Tate, MS, will guide readers through the process of aging with the goal of enhancing life quality and independence as we age.
If arteriosclerosis can dramatically affect the life of a former president, none of us are immune from its life-threatening impact. Published 10:21 a.m. August 13, 2013 - Comments
Over the next three decades, the epidemic of childhood obesity will severely take its toll on this country. Published 11:05 a.m. August 6, 2013 - Comments
The World Health Organization predicts that being overweight and obesity may soon replace more traditional public health concerns. Published 11:53 a.m. July 30, 2013 - Comments
It is devastating when a beloved companion is injured or stricken with an illness, and this is certainly true for canine cancer. Published 12:42 p.m. July 23, 2013 - Comments
The recent death of Charlotte Bronson illustrates the critical need for research and awareness of ovarian cancer. Published 11:21 a.m. July 16, 2013 - Comments
The 2012 movie "The Sessions" so compelling because of Mark O'Brien's insistence on maintaining independence in the face of his disability. Published 9:57 a.m. July 10, 2013 - Comments
Special accommodations may be needed to ensure that no one is left out of the holiday fun because of their disability. Published 9:52 a.m. July 3, 2013 - Comments
The anticipation of fireworks stirs excitement as Independence Day celebrations approach. Published 9:21 a.m. July 1, 2013 - Comments
Lingonberries are small red berries which grow on wild lingonberry fruit trees. Published 2:34 p.m. June 11, 2013 - Comments
Angelina Jolie's courageous story has been featured just about everywhere lately. Published 2:39 p.m. May 24, 2013 - Comments
Laurie Edwards-Tate, MS, President and Founder of At Your Home Familycare in San Diego, California, was among the first to recognize the growing need for services allowing individuals to remain independent created by the aging of America including the Baby ...
Read MoreFind up-to-date information on the D.C. and Baltimore live music scenes and read interviews with artists and reviews of the latest releases and concerts.
Florida singer/songwriter duo's recent performance at DC's 9:30 Club reviewed.
Bluegrass trio, The Devil Makes Three: Updated down-home action at the 9:30 Club.
Juliana Hatfield and Matthew Caws appearance as Minor Alps in DC.
Classic hardcore punks H2O in action in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Find the latest news and happening that effect those in the Washington D.C., Northern Virginia and Maryland Metro region.
All of the world's problems, solved on your back porch
A politically conservative and morally liberal Hebrew alpha male hunts left-wing viper
Television commentary, reviews, news and nonstop DVR catch-up by Lisa King Dolloff and friends.
The world of professional wrestling as seen through the eyes of columnist James Ryan, including previews, recaps, interviews and all of the latest wrestling news.
Laurie Edwards-Tate, MS, President and Founder of At Your Home Familycare in San Diego, California, was among the first to recognize the growing need for services allowing individuals to remain independent created by the aging of America including the Baby Boomer generation, now being called the "Silver Tsunami." It is the Baby Boomers who are rapidly redefining what aging and growing older means and looks like in America today.
Now celebrating its 28th year in business, AYHF is among San Diego County's Top Women-Owned Businesses and Fastest Growing Businesses, and enjoys a reputation for upholding the highest possible standards among its employees and its emphasis on customer service. Edwards-Tate is a valued contributor to the public dialogue on current issues and challenges in the home care industry, and serves in leadership roles on the Home Care Aide Association of America Advisory Board and Private Duty Home Care Association Advisory Board, as well as the Home Care Aide Steering Committee of the California Association for Health Services at Home.
Edwards-Tate is frequently interviewed in the media on healthy aging, caregiving, and health care topics.
Follow Laurie and AYHF at www.atyourhomefamilycare.com; on Facebook at www.facebook.com/atyourhomefamilycare, and Twitter at @AYHFamilycare


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Hi guys,
Have read through all the threads about super numbers for wool, but I hope to get a deeper insight into the VBC super 140s in terms of construction, durability and sheen.
I have a pocket square question. How do most of you use pocket squares without causing too much puffing in the jacket on the breast pocket? Most of the time when I do a puff pocket square "fold" it puffs the whole pocket pretty considerably where the jacket fits a little funny afterwards, too big of a PS for the jacket maybe?
Hello everyone (first post for me!). I recently bought a pair of Salvatore Ferragamo Bramante loafers as a gift.
I was wondering what line of Ferragamo these shoes are part of (Studio, etc)?
I thought the toe part of the shoe was going to be a bit less boxy and I was wondering if anyone could provide some opinion on whether or not the toes are considered box-toe or not. I know that round/more pointy toed shoes probably look better / are more fashionable right now. How are these for a guy in his early 20s?
Could it be worn in a dressier sense and maybe with nice jeans as part of a more casual outfit?
Included some pictures from online sources below.


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Read what other Viator.com travelers think about the Sydney Airport Private Departure Transfer. What they loved, what they liked and what they think could be improved, it's all here to help you make the most of your next trip.
Click here for tour details, schedule and pricing
Excellent communication, with driver confirming pick up time and ensuring flight times were correct. Lovely driver and excellent service, will definitely be using again.
On time and very friendly
Easy contact, timely pickup and great driver. Car was spotless
Excellent service, driver was a few minutes early so no waiting around, and smooth ride to the airport. Highly recommend this service.
Professional, clean, newer car and ON TIME!!!
Ann W
Driver was very friendly and accommodating with mums request to drive over the harbor bridge and see the Oprah house lit up. Punctual and very helpful. The car was very comfortable.
very efficient
Arrived promptly, very courteous driver and a nice clean car. None of the worry with a taxi about whether it would turn up.
Driver was on time, pleasant, and helpful! I would recommend this service any time!
The service you provided was excellent, both drivers were very well presented and smart and when we arrived was waiting there for us in Sydney. It was very reassuring to know that we did not have to have the hassle of finding transport to our hotel. Both drivers were professional and courteous and the cars clean and comfortable.
we would without hesitation recommend this service to our friends and family.
waiting at the appointed time for us.....quick easy transfer...probably one of the best transfers I have had anywhere
Our driver (same gentleman who took care of us upon arriving in Sydney) was waiting for us in the hotel lobby 15 minutes before our appointed time. Again, an easy experience - car was great, smooth ride to the airport. Worked very well for us.
Very professional service. Would recommend this service, and certainly use again. Max and Jill. SA
This service was excellent kept us updated on our pickup time for departure
Perfect timing ,pick up at hotel was by a very courteous driver,would recommend this service to anyone.


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St. Louis Punts on Highway Teardown, for Now
For three years, grassroots advocates in St. Louis have been pressing for the removal of elevated portions of I-70 through downtown. This group of urbanists and architects, with little to no financial support, came together to make the case for highway removal.
Calling themselves City to River, the group built a website and a nonprofit organization and, over time, a pretty diverse coalition around the idea. They lined up support from residents and businesses along the corridor, as well as preservationists, park advocates, and local foundations.
A big victory came last year when the Partnership for Downtown St. Louis, a business group that is funding a comprehensive study of connections between downtown and the riverfront, insisted that the teardown concept be examined.
But advocates were dealt a blow this week when the planning firm Bernardin, Lochmueller and Associates, which conducting the study, announced it would not produce an in-depth analysis of the teardown that could lead to further action. Otis Williams of the St. Louis Development Corporation, which is overseeing the study, told the St. Louis Post Dispatch that consultants had not completed the overall access study by the deadline and would need some additional funding and another six months to complete it. Williams blamed the delay on the highway teardown concept. "We had to stop and have a discussion about that," he said. The budget for the study, $90,000, was insufficient to properly evaluate the highway teardown as well as the other concerns, he said.
City to River's Alex Ihnen said the move was shortsighted. "What they're doing is eliminating conversation about this for 20 years," he told the Post Dispatch. But Ihnen's group hasn't given up. They may seek funding to conduct their own study. Alternatively, he told Streetsblog, they may just work to keep the issue on a "slow boil" in the community's consciousness until a political opportunity presents itself. Ihnen said urban officials are very focused on the redesign of the Gateway Arch Grounds on the riverfront at the moment.


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What is the AAPA?
Leaders supporting leaders…
The American Association of Psychiatric Administrators (AAPA), established in 1961, is the premiere educational, networking, and support resource for psychiatrists interested in administration and management. The AAPA promotes medical leadership and medical excellence in behavioral healthcare systems, including services for mental illness, substance use disorders, and developmental disabilities. With the ultimate aim of enhancing the effectiveness, efficiency, and humanity in service delivery, the AAPA seeks to promote the professional development of psychiatrists:
- at all levels of expertise, from novice to experts
- who practice in sites of varying complexity, from solo practice to large healthcare systems; and
- who represent various sectors, including public, private, and academic.
The AAPA is dedicated to assisting leaders in the field of psychiatry and psychiatric administration…
- to enrich the therapeutic environment in which services are provided for mental, substance use, or developmental disorders.
- to apply administrative theories effectively within the full range of practice arenas and psychiatric subspecialities.
- to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, consumer satisfaction, and humanity in all facets of service delivery.
- to provide consultation, education, and support through the membership network and to serve as a resource for other psychia- trists and behavioral health administrators who strive for excellence in psychiatric administration and management.


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Read an Exclusive Sword Fight Excerpt from Neal Stephenson's The Mongoliad: Book Three
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- 2:31 pm |
- Permalink
The hammer swept down, and Lakshaman darted to his left, sweeping the bloody hatchet up to slam its handle against the shaft of the knight's hammer. Even before the shock of the contact rippled all the way up to his shoulder, he was already turning his wrist, letting the momentum of the hammer carry it past him. He was inside the knight's guard again.
The knight snapped his right hand out, and his metal-shod fist drove into Lakshaman's throat. He'd taken worse, but the blow made his throat close. Gagging, he felt his grip on the hatchet loosen. The knight hit him again, and he barely managed to tuck his chin down. The knight's fist scrapped across his jaw—once, twice.
Lakshaman stumbled back. The knight pressed his advantage, pounding Lakshaman with short jabs. They weren't terribly powerful hits, but the flurry of punches kept him off balance, forcing him to retreat.
He saw his opening: his opponent was covered from head to foot with the tightly linked maille, but it did not cover the entirety of the palms. At the base of the hand there was a patch of exposed skin. As long as the knight held a weapon, it wasn't vulnerable, but without one …
As the knight punched him again, Lakshaman jabbed upward with the knife in his left hand. He shoved the point into the base of the man's hand with all of his strength, and the knight's fist cocked at a strange angle. He felt the knife grind against bone, and he shoved and twisted the blade.
The knight screamed, and Lakshaman caught a flash of the whites of the man's eyes through the narrow slit of the helmet.
Letting go of both his knife and the nearly forgotten hatchet, Lakshaman grappled with his enemy. He looped his left arm around the knight's right, pinning the man's elbow against his side. The knight, moaning and spitting, threw his weight against Lakshaman in a desperate attempt to overwhelm the lesser-armored man and regain control of the grapple. Lakshaman dropped his hips — the one whose hips are lower is the one who wins — and twisted his body around as he swept his right leg back.
The knight tried to stop the throw, but he was too off balance, and his armor gave him too much mass. He flew off his feet, and Lakshaman, still holding onto his arm, came tumbling with him. They crashed to the ground, and there was a bone-snapping crunch as his elbow twisted too far in the wrong direction.
Lakshaman rolled off his opponent, the roar of the crowd filling his head. Crouching, he warily regarded his downed opponent while his right hand tried to explore the painful gash in his back. His hand came away red with blood, but he could still move. He could still fight.
Unlike his opponent.


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As I watched "The Voice" on Monday night, I couldn't help but notice coach after coach offer the same pieces of advice to team members. If contestants wanted to win and advance, they needed to truly connect with the audience. It has been a running theme throughout the show.
"It's not about giving you guys a task or just singing some random song," said CeeLo Green, award-winning artist and coach. "I would love for it to connect to you in a personal way to where you can truly sing it with that conviction."
How do you connect with an audience? Tell a story and try to get listeners to relate. Even if they can't relate, work to get the audience to empathize and believe what you're telling them.
Funny how marketing communications works in the same way as music; storytelling is essential. Now I am going to intertwine the two even more, by demonstrating how music is effectively used in TV advertisements, therefore telling fascinating stories and getting key messages across.
Admit it – this commercial wouldn't be as riveting if it weren't for this indie song coming out of the woodwork. Yes, the power of the World Wide Web is moving, but Alex Clare's "Too Close" is what captivated people's attention. Internet Explorer is seen as a somewhat outdated browser as it competes with newer browsers like Safari and Firefox. By using Clare's soulful song that includes an electronic dubstep twist, Internet Explorer becomes fresh and trendy.
It's a good thing Microsoft reached out to Clare, as the song has become increasingly popular after Clare had been dropped from his record label. This ad campaign definitely turned out to be a win-win for all involved parties.
When I saw this commercial for the first time, I had happy chills going down my spine. I still get excited when this ad comes on TV, even seven months later.
I can always turn to these hamsters if I need a good laugh. Despite Kia's great sense of humor, the song choice is phenomenal. Electronic dance music is on the rise, and consistently appearing on Top 40 music charts. I could picture myself on the dance floor in "La La Land" from this song – "In My Mind" by Ivan Gough & Feenixpawl feat. Georgi Kay (Axwell remix). From Blake Griffin to the hamsters, Kia has been doing excellent advertising over the past couple of years.
No exaggeration here – Tears welled up in my eyes when I saw this Super Bowl commercial, as it impacted me in such a profound way. I have no connection to Detroit, but I am proud to be an American, and I do love a good a cappella choir. Eminem, originally from Detroit, affected the tone of the advertisement with his rugged "Lose Yourself" beat. Both music choices are strong and empowering.
Thank you, Microsoft, Kia and Chrysler, for taking me somewhere with your ads, from goose bumps rising on my arms, to a goofy grin plastered on my face as my eyes are glued to the TV screen.
"I get asked all the time, 'What makes a really good song?' And the only answer is, 'If it takes you somewhere.'" –Rob Thomas, Matchbox Twenty front man, "The Voice"
Tagged advertising, Creativity, Hannah Babcock, iTunes, Marketing, marketing communications, Morningstar Communications, music, social media, Strategic Communications, WebIt only takes a few seconds to form an opinion about someone or something. That's why we're often told that we need to present ourselves in the best way we know how – we never know who we're going to run into. The same standard applies to social media usage. It's all about that first impression.
If we are going to be assessed based on an initial impression, then we need to work on grooming ourselves. I'm not talking about the physical attributes in a profile picture (although that's important too). I'm referring to the Twitter handle (@username). Here are a handful of suggestions on how to choose, or modify, your Twitter handle:
1. Be easy to find.
It is frustrating when you are trying to contact someone through Twitter and his or her Twitter handle doesn't appear right away. Then you have to scroll through numerous accounts until you're able to land on who you want to talk to. Use your first and last name when signing up for a Twitter account. If you're worried about privacy settings, make your account private, or simply keep things you wouldn't want the world to know to yourself.
2. Be unique.
I use the Twitter handle "@hannzbanans" because it is unique and easy to find. One night I responded to my university's opinion section of the newspaper via Twitter, and my tweet was featured in the paper the following day. There I was: "@hannzbanans thinks fall is the best season of the year, thanks to football." At first I was embarrassed that my Twitter handle was there for the student body to see. Then my dad told me he thought it was feminine and unique, and there was nothing I should be ashamed of. Why would I be? It's memorable, therefore I'm likely to receive more mentions. When friends and family members see me, they yell and joke, "Hannzbanans!" It has stuck for good.
3. Be professional.
This may seem exclusive in some ways from tip #2. It depends on what message you're trying to send. For example, when I graduated from college and started applying for jobs, I wondered if I should change my Twitter handle. I wondered if it didn't come across as clean and professional. Okay, so it isn't "@hbabcock" or something along those lines. "@hannzbanans" was the fun, creative twist to my name I came up with. "@hbabcock," though? Yawn. My last name doesn't particularly stand out.
"@hannzbanans" may not be the most clean-cut username in the Twittersphere, but at least potential partners know that I have an edge. I know how to cut up, yet I can be serious too, which is portrayed through the variety in my tweets.
And this should go without saying: No profanity. Hopefully you'll want to be taken seriously, even if you are trying to be a comedian.
4. Only use numbers if you have an attachment to one.
A lot of people tag numbers onto their Twitter handles when their desired username is already taken. Numbers take away from the unique aspect of a username, and can make it harder to find the exact account they're looking for.
I looked up several professional athletes to see whether or not they used their jersey numbers. Nope, not @kingjames, @drewbrees or @PujolsFive, just to name a few. If you insist on including a number in your username, then aim to have just two digits. Otherwise you could look like a spammer.
5. Keep it short.
Who doesn't enjoy getting retweeted? You could miss that aspect of Twitter if you have a long username. If other users can't retweet you without going over 140 characters, there's a good chance hash tags could get taken out. Or even worse, your username. Then you wouldn't get the credit you may deserve. A good rule of thumb is to keep your Twitter handle at 15 characters or less.
Pick one or two words that describe you in a nutshell. Hello, Twitter handle. Hello, new followers. First impressions are everything.
Tagged best practices, Creativity, first impressions, Hannah Babcock, Messaging, social media, Twitter, Twitter handles, unique, usernamesThis week is World Creativity and Innovation Week, and it's the perfect reminder to step out of your comfort zone, welcome new ideas and think creatively. Too often we are so consumed with our day-to-day we forget to challenge our thinking and embrace new possibilities. Here are a few ways you can channel your creativity this week, and all year round:
Get up and move. It's probably no surprise cubicles can stifle creativity. If you are looking to be inspired, get up and take a walk around the office.
Embrace a new perspective. Try assessing the problem from a different point of view – i.e. your customer's. Looking at the world through different lenses can help you gain clarity and consider new options.
Be ready for genius at any moment. Some of the best ideas come at unexpected times. Keep a notepad next to your bed. Use the voice-recording feature on your smartphone. Always be prepared to capture thoughts as they come to you.
Be passionate. Make time for hiking, painting, cooking, whatever it is that inspires you.
Accept some ideas will be better than others. Some concepts will be brilliant and others will fall short. The sooner you accept this, the more confident and successful you will be.
If you're interested in additional tips on how to be more creative and innovative at work, check out Hallmark Business Connections' blog.
Tagged Creativity, Michelle Boyd, Morningstar Communication, World Creativity and Innovation WeekDuring the last month or so, the subject of creativity loomed large on the radar screen of clients, colleagues and other businesspeople in my network. Conversations revolved around how to be more creative, infusing creativity into the development process, and pushing the creative envelope on campaigns. It got me thinking about what truly is creative. What does the label mean?
It turns out, creativity is in the eye of the beholder. Just check with these creative types, featured in a recent issue of Fast Company. You'll see how subjective the idea of creativity really is, and how often creative ideas get shoved aside for the tried and true.
To be honest, I've never considered myself a "Big Idea" person. When it comes to thinking outside the box, I really have to push through my personal self-doubt. Which is why I especially enjoyed this blogpost about NOT thinking outside the box. Like Pallotta, I find the best fresh ideas aren't necessarily pushing the envelope, but rather providing a new perspective while tying to the overall strategic goals we are focused on accomplishing.
Tagged best practices, Creativity, Executive Insights, Morningstar Communications, Sheri JohnsonI recently represented Morningstar Communications at Kansas City's PRSA Day, which included a career fair for college students interested in public relations. I loved how enthusiastic and driven the students were—asking question after question about what experience makes them the most attractive to employers in the PR field.
One student asked me something particularly interesting. She said, "I feel like one of my strengths is coming up with creative ideas in a group brainstorming session. Is that something that I should write on my resume or bring up in interviews?" Absolutely.
Divergent thinking, or coming up with multiple solutions to a problem or a question, is a skill that is so incredibly important today not only in the PR field, but in multiple industries.
Brainstorming sessions are where the best ideas happen. It's amazing how different people offer different perspectives and ideas have a snowball effect. I loved a quote I recently saw in Fast Company from designer Aza Raskin, who said, "I love to take a spark of curiosity and pour fuel on it." Brainstorming sessions are like pouring fuel on creative sparks.
At Morningstar Communications we frequently use group brainstorms to come up with new ideas for clients. Only one rule exists at our brainstorming sessions: no "fire hosing" other people's ideas. If you make fun of an idea, you have to wear a fireman's hat as a funny sort of punishment for "fire hosing." All ideas are welcome at the brainstorming table.
Below are links to a couple of interesting articles with advice for those interested in a career in PR. Both mention the importance of creativity and curiosity, among other important skills for new PR professionals to hone.
7 Essential Tips for PR Newbies- Petya N. Gergieva
The PR pro of today: What do employers really want? –Arik Hanson
What skills do you think are important for employees in the PR industry?
Tagged Brainstorming, Creativity, Holly Eckold, Morningstar Communications, New PR professionalsYou know the funny YouTube videos your coworkers circulate throughout the office every now and then? Did you know that those can actually help boost your creativity? According to Time, if you are in a happy mood you are more likely to think creatively, even if that happy mood springs simply from watching a funny YouTube video.
Creativity is incredibly important in the workplace, but it's not always easy to harness. We all have times when we feel on our game at work, and the creative juices are flowing. We also have times when it feels like our creativity wells have been sucked dry. Some of us are the most creative at the beginning of the work day. (I write best in the morning—post coffee of course). Others are stellar employees post-lunch. Is it possible to capture creativity on cue?
I was interested in finding out how to harness creativity. I researched a bunch of creativity tips and tricks, many of which suggested moving around, doodling, and listening to music. However, in the midst of all of these tips, I came across a very simple one: slow down.
Our jobs are fast paced, and it oftentimes feels like a race to the finish to keep up with all of the incoming e-mails and our massive to-do lists. However, Steve Prentice, author of Cool Down: Getting Further by Going Slower, argues that our "addiction to immediacy" leaves little room for creativity. He challenges us to (gasp!) not look at an e-mail right as it comes into our inbox. Instead, he encourages us to concentrate on our current task at hand with a mindset of quality and creativity. The "get it out the door as quick as I can" mentality does not give ourselves time to brainstorm creative ideas. Prentice advises scheduling in some free time at work to allow ourselves time for imagination and new ideas.
So slow it down, turn off the electronic distractions for just a little bit, and let your mind wander to new ideas. Also, to see how creativity and success coincide, check out Fast Company's list of the most innovative companies of 2011.
Tagged Corporate Culture, Creativity, Creativity tips, Holly Eckold, Interns, Morningstar CommunicationsThe flipping of the calendar from 2010 to 2011 fills me with hope and promise. It's nice to have that fresh start that comes with the beginning of a new year. While I like to focus on what's to come, the end of the year gives us reason to look back. I'm taking this opportunity to share some of my favorite 2010 blog posts from here at Morningstar Communications. It's pretty cool that I get to work with some really intelligent and thoughtful bloggers.
Early last year, Eric Morgenstern wrote about how Social media is here to stay. In a year when so much has happened in the social media space, it's really interesting to see what the social media sentiment was in early 2010.
My colleague, Tricia Jaworski, dedicated some of her blog space to talking about the backbone of PR – media relations. She takes it to 11 by talking about national media relations and how luck and strategy plays in to each opportunity.
This post about filler words by Tyler Dustin has stuck with me since I read it. I was guilty of adding a "just" when it wasn't necessary. Not so much anymore.
Morningstar Communications always has outstanding interns, who know their stuff. This post from Holly Eckold nailed how to tell your story to capture and connect audiences.
Employee communication has always been near and dear, so Matt Tidwell's post talking about employee engagement and communications really drove the message home.
And of course, it never hurts to give another nod to the boss. Eric's three-part series on macro-trends is worthy of another look. The first post is on transparency, the second is on privacy and the third is on connectivity.
There were so many other great posts in 2010 so look through our archives if you get a chance. You'll quickly see what I already knew – I get to work with smart people who will keep on blogging in 2011. Happy New Year!
Tagged 2010, blog review, communications, Creativity, Eric Morgenstern, Internal Communications, Leadership, Marketing, marketing, Morningstar Communications, public relations, Rachel Spear, Tricia Jaworski, Tyler Dustin, WebA recent article from the GALLUP Management Journal, titled Creating a Culture of Innovation shared the key ingredient to an innovative and creative culture: engaged employees.
I found this article interesting since this fall, Morningstar Communications hosted an Illumination Session about engaging employees. In this article the author, Jason Krieger, states that "Engaged employees share their ideas more often, generate more ideas, and generate better ideas."
To achieve a culture of innovations Jason recommends organizations:
Read Jason's full article for further insights.
Tagged Creativity, creativity, employee engagement, Morningstar Communications, Tricia JaworskiI recently had the opportunity to sit on a panel at "Wild On PRSSA Day" at the Kansas City Zoo. PRSSA is PRSA's student organization for aspiring PR professionals. "Wild On" was a daylong conference for students to receive insight on the industry, get resume feedback and tips on marketing themselves as they launch their careers.
This was a great opportunity presented to the students and I was happy to be a part of it. I was also proud to represent Morningstar Communications to talk about "A Day in the Life of a PR Pro" from an agency prospective.
We talked about everything from maintaining a healthy work-life balance to professional organizations to the increase of social media in integrated marketing programs.
One of the recurring themes of the discussion was adaptability. The group seemed surprised to learn about the different hats we must wear and how nimble we must be as PR professionals. After listening to the other two panelists' examples of the need to be adaptable and quick on your feet and comparing them to my own, I was a little surprised as well. Until that discussion, I never realized how much adapting I did in a given day. The more thoughtful questions they asked, the more I thought about the importance of adapting. The ability to adapt is important because it allows for excellent service. Being forced to adapt is important because it demands creativity.
It was a great group to interact with and we learned a lot from each other. I'm interested to hear how others find themselves adapting or switching direction on a daily basis. How do you react? Do you embrace it? Refuse it? What are some positive outcomes that have occurred as a result of your adaptability?
Tagged Adapting, Creativity, Professional Development, PRSA, PRSSA, quality service, Tyler DustinOne of the distinct pleasures of my job is working with great clients. This summer, we began working with Tension International Automation Solutions (TIAS), a subsidiary of Tension Envelope Corporation (they have a big sign on top of their building just south of downtown, kinda like the Western Auto sign). They design and build automation systems for central fill, mail order and specialty pharmacies.
One of the key things that makes them special as a company is the scalability and flexibility their systems offer. This is especially important for pharmacies that are waiting to see how changes in healthcare are going to affect their businesses. You can check out videos that show what they do — it's actually pretty fascinating.
One of the key things that makes them special as a client is they are simply great people to work with, and they're super-enthusiastic about their business. Last week, they hosted us for a working lunch. We were greeted with our lunches packaged and labeled — a specialty of the packaging side of their business. Though it was an extra effort they didn't have to do, it brightened our day and reminded us we are lucky to work with many fun people, including the folks at Tension.
Tagged Creativity


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The Extreme Blue™ internship program consists of innovative project teams comprised of three technical team members and one business member per project. Each summer, we run more than 50 projects spread across labs in the US, Canada, Europe, China, and India.
IBM technical and business mentors participate on each team to serve as guides and are among the foremost experts in their field. While your work will focus primarily on a single project during this program, you will have access to the diverse body of expertise and experience of all project mentors—as well as the large staff of specialists and advisors.
With multiple projects per lab, part of the fun of Extreme Blue is the chance to meet and collaborate with interns and mentors from other project teams. The friendships that form may last a lifetime.
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Alan Pentz, Extreme Blue Alumnus, MBA McCombs School of Business, University of Texas at Austin
Read about their experience in Extreme Blue
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At Idealist, we want to connect people to the opportunities, community, and resources they need in order to take action and create a better world. To help spur a global network of doers, Idealist Careers will be a hub of informative and inspirational content that focuses on how people can find, land, and love their social-impact careers.
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There are plenty of ways you can get lucky in life, and these 5 celebrities all believe they've been blessed with some form of amazing luck which has enriched their lives and helped them become what they are. Some just feel lucky to have found love or friendship, while others feel their career was all down to luck and they are so grateful for how things have turned out for them. Other stars are just happy to be alive after putting themselves in danger stupidly when they were younger or overcoming cancer – they are just happy to have more time. From the simple things such as winning big while playing online at Jackpot Casino Games Capital, to being grateful for the cards you've been dealt in life, these 5 celebrities all believe they are incredibly lucky in one way or another.
Angelina Jolie
Angelina previously revealed that she did some very dangerous things when she was younger and she is lucky she didn't die young: "I went through heavy, darker times and I survived them. I didn't die young, so I'm very lucky. There are other artists and people who didn't survive certain things. People can imagine I did the most Dangerous and the worst. For many reasons, I shouldn't be here. You just think [about] those times when you came too close to too many dangerous things, too many chances taken, too far."
After surviving cancer, Jeremy felt lucky just to be alive so he could spend more time with his wife and children: "It's been a horrific time – a very sobering experience – but now I just feel lucky to be alive. I feel lucky that I'm here for my family and can see my kids grow up."
Keira believes she got incredibly lucky with her career because not everyone gets that important break and she thinks it's up to luck: "The thing with acting is it's not a job where, if you go to drama school, get the best grades and work the hardest, you're going to be successful. It has nothing to do with whether you're the best or the prettiest. It takes a lot of luck."
Paris knows she is lucky for being born in to such a wealthy family: "I'm not my fault that I was born with this. I thank God and I'm lucky, and I help people and I give money away, and I do a lot of things for people. I realise I'm lucky – and people shouldn't hate me for that. They should hate me if I'm a bad person and mean to people. But I'm so sweet. I'm too nice."
Simon believes he is lucky just to have family and friends who he can talk to and who support him, especially because his career can make it harder to form true friendships: "I'm lucky that I have a lot of good people around me. That's very important, especially when you do what I do. I'm happy but I would like a girlfriend."


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We all seem to have at least one "gadget nut" in the family. The question is what we get them for the holidays without seeming like we're completely out to lunch.
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This sheer liquid concealer is dispensed from a squeeze tube that has a synthetic brush affixed to the opening. Dispensing takes some getting used to; it is easy to squeeze out too much and waste product. It is sold as an eye-area brightener that claims to deflate puffy eyes. The first claim is realistic but the second is just standard cosmetic puffery. Each of the two shades provides a subtle brightening effect thanks to the soft shimmer finish they have, though they do end up with a matte-feeling finish. The silicone-enhanced formula contains several water-binding agents and antioxidant plant extracts, but none of these will reduce puffy eyes. Despite that letdown, artfully applied, a concealer with soft shine can make the eye area look better. As an eye base, the formula helps eyeshadows apply and adhere better versus application over bare skin—but any matte or powder finish foundation or concealer applied to the eyelid can do the same thing. This is best for those who want sheer coverage with a hint of shine.
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Shopping this drugstore line is now much easier because of the clearly defined product and color family groupings. Lamentably, testers and trial sizes of the makeup are still scarce regardless of where you shop. Almay has always been a reliable line for foundations, powder, and mascara. Within its current lineup you'll find that remains true. Their foundations are better than ever, and still offer full, broad-spectrum sun protection and a mostly neutral palette. We also found their concealers and mascaras have improved, as have the pencil options. When it comes to shopping for makeup staples with state-of-the-art formulas, Almay has many winners, and some innovative surprises that its competitors would be wise to learn from.
For more information about Almay, owned by Revlon, call (800) 992-5629 or visit www.almay.com.
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Published September 2, 2008
These days, good Smörrebröd can be an elusive delicacy. Lucky for us out in the colonies, it's alive and well at Jómfrúin with fresh eel imported specially from Denmark.
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- Phone: +354 551 0100
- Web: www.jomfruin.is
- Address: Laekjargata 4, 101 Reykjavík
- Show on map: click here