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The following commentary does not necessarily reflect the views of AgWeb or Farm Journal Media. The opinions expressed below are the author's own.
The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation is an independent, nonprofit institute headquartered in Ardmore, Okla. Founded in 1945, the Noble Foundation conducts direct operations, including assisting farmers and ranchers, and conducting plant science research and agricultural programs, to enhance agricultural productivity regionally, nationally and internationally. www.noble.org
Written by Ryan Reuter / firstname.lastname@example.com
Rules of thumb can be dangerous because they are simplified, generalized algorithms that we use instead of a more detailed, accurate calculation. Many times, however, rules of thumb are very useful when you need a quick estimate of a quantity or relationship. Rules of thumb in the cattle business can be developed from cumulative years of experience from many producers and are often verified when they are evaluated with replicated research studies.
Some of my favorite cattle nutrition rules of thumb (in no particular order) are:
Before relying on any of these rules of thumb, it is important to consider all of the factors involved and the natural variation that is expected in animals. Consult your professional advisor for more details. No guarantee is made on any of these rules of thumb.
Written by Bryan Nichols, email@example.com
Since 1988, the Noble Foundation has sponsored a contest called the Junior Beef Excellence Program. This program recognizes the carcass merit of steers exhibited at junior livestock shows by 4-H and FFA members in eight south-central Oklahoma counties—Carter, Garvin, Jefferson, Johnston, Love, Marshall, Murray and Stephens. After their respective county livestock shows, steers are harvested at a commercial packing facility. Carcass measurements are taken and used to rank steers. The top 10 entries are then awarded prize money for their respective placing.
For the 2014 contest, a recordkeeping and interview contest was incorporated with the intent of enhancing the educational value of the program. Participants submitted their information in paper format; then an interview was conducted where participants were judged based on their thoroughness, detail and overall knowledge of what it took to raise their animal and how it performed.
To keep up in a technological world, the Noble Foundation recently released a mobile recordkeeping app as part of the program. The app will provide 4-H and FFA students with the ability to capture key pieces of information from the field as they raise steers for competition. While the app was originally designed for students participating in the program, it can be used by any student or producer to maintain individual records.
The app is called Noble Jr. Beef Journal and is available for free download on iTunes for the iPhone and on Google Play for Android devices. The app can also be used on a computer, not just a smartphone.
With this app, users will be able to:
To download the app, please visit www.noble.org/ag/jrbeef. For more information about the app or the Junior Beef Excellence Program, contact Bryan Nichols at 580.224.6523.
Written by Robert Wells, firstname.lastname@example.com
Most ranchers in the Southwest will have already turned their bulls out to the cow herd for the breeding season or will be preparing to do so. With this in mind, we should be looking ahead to managing the bulls once the breeding season is over.
It is not uncommon for a bull to lose one to one-and-a-half body condition points during a tightly controlled breeding season. As long as the mature bull goes into the season with adequate condition, he should easily recover with very little supplemental feed for next year. However, if this is a young bull's first breeding season, he will most likely need additional supplemental feed to continue to grow and develop to his full genetic potential. These two situations can have opposing management scenarios since most people want to keep all bulls together after the breeding season. Mature bulls would be eating more than they need if they are fed to meet the needs of the younger bulls. In this situation, it is better to separate the younger and thinner bulls from the rest to most efficiently manage all the bulls. By doing so, the bulls that need more supplemental feed can receive what is necessary to continue their growth or regain condition.
A 2-year-old bull is still growing and developing into a mature animal; thus, he will need a higher plane of nutrition to meet his requirements. You should determine the total amount of weight that the bull needs to gain and how long you have before the first frost of the year. It is much easier to put weight on cattle in the growing season than it is during winter. In general, a bull that is on a quality pasture and high quality supplemental feed during the growing season should gain enough weight to stay on track for proper growth and development. Once frost occurs and colder weather sets in, intake will have to be increased accordingly. Remember that the goal is to have the bull in a body condition score of 6.5 at turn-out time in the spring. It is much easier and more efficient to get the bull to this condition while he is grazing on green forages and then to maintain that condition during the winter than it is to try to put on additional condition during the winter.
Don't forget about an effective herd health program for your bulls. All bulls should receive viral respiratory complex vaccine booster (four- or five-way vaccination; IBR, BVDV, PI3, BRSV). Vaccination against the Leptospirosis and Vibriosis diseases is also recommended. Additionally, guarding against internal and external parasites will increase the health status of the bull. Use a quality anthelmentic to control internal parasites. Flies, ticks and lice can be easily controlled with a combination of ear tags, sprays and back rubs. Be sure to rotate classes of active ingredients which will reduce resistance issues.
Finally, as a part of your post- season breeding management program, you should determine the number of bulls necessary for next season and identify a source for replacements. Quality bulls are typically sold in the fall before the breeding season to ranchers who are proactive. This leaves the rest of the bull selection for those who wait.
A successful bull program doesn't happen by accident and requires planning all year long rather than only thinking about your bulls just before and during the breeding season. Remember, your bulls are the most important employees on the ranch. Make sure you pay attention to their needs year-round.
by Chad Ellis, firstname.lastname@example.com
"It's hard to know where you are going if you don't know where you've been." This old saying has many applications and is easily applied to pasture and range management. One area of management in which it can be applied is with prescribed grazing. To properly manage pastures, variables must be monitored and some measured. In this article, we will discuss what prescribed grazing is and identify the variables critical to managing pastures.
Prescribed grazing is a managed balance between animal numbers, nutrition, economics, wildlife, weather, forage supply and many other factors. Prescribed grazing can be applied to one or many pastures as well as to one or many herds. The key is planning for a desired outcome. Success is more than just providing forage with appropriate levels of nutrition to grazing animals. Success is recognizing and managing adjustments that accompany management changes. Good managers recognize these changes and then take action. This process begins with monitoring and keeping good records.
Monitoring improves the manager's ability to make proper and timely decisions. Grazing lands are very complex. Any given pasture may be composed of several different soils, each with different potential plant communities. Each plant community supports its own mixture of grasses, forbs and woody species. The proportion and abundance of species change over time because of weather, seasons and how we manage these resources. The mix of species and their abundance within each plant community affect present and future production for livestock or wildlife, and the health of your ranch.
So what should you monitor and what records should you keep?
Precipitation records should be collected year-round to determine if changes in landscape cover are caused by weather patterns rather than management (e.g., stocking rate). Also, knowing whether or not you are short of rainfall will aid in making decisions that will benefit the land, such as reducing or removing livestock during drought.
Keeping grazing records to make management and forage unit decisions can be very useful. Grazing records track grazing period and recovery days, grazing cycles, and seasons of use. Records, including pasture identification, grazeable acres in each pasture, number of days grazed during each grazing event, number of head or animal units grazing, average weight per head or animal unit, and recovery period, should be captured.
Record forage heights before and after a grazing event. More accurate estimates can be made by using caged grazing exclosures. This method excludes grazing animals from a small representative area so that vegetation changes outside the exclosure can be compared to changes inside the cage.
A good way to capture vegetation shift and trends is with photographs. Take pictures at permanent key grazing sites for comparison over time to determine trends. The number of areas selected depends on the ranch size and number of unique sites. Photos should consist of close-ups of specific plots as well as a landscape photo that includes landmarks so the photo angle can be repeated. Photographs should be taken at least once a year at the same time of year; preferably in the fall. Shoot more often if you want to monitor changes more closely. Using the photos in combination with other monitoring methods can help the manager better understand landscape changes.
Managers must monitor and document changes to ensure that management is not causing damage to soil and plant communities, and to evaluate whether or not past actions are producing desired results. Land stewards who are dedicated to improving the quality of their pastures will ultimately see results in profitability, with economic and environmental changes that benefit the sustainability of their business.
Writtenby Clay Wright, firstname.lastname@example.com
Over the years, there have been many articles in this publication regarding hay – its true cost of production, storage and feeding techniques, and stockpiling to reduce the need for hay, among other topics. Hay and the feed often required to supplement its quality make up a large percentage of annual cow costs. Until we can produce consistent grazeable forage year-round in the quantity and quality necessary to meet animals' nutrition requirements, hay will remain a part of most livestock enterprises in the Southern Great Plains.
Producers in this area have begun to bale excess small grain and ryegrass pastures. Warm-season perennials and annuals will also be "rolled up" as the growing season progresses. As you are looking for next winter's hay, you should take a sample of each lot before committing to purchase. There are many places to get samples analyzed with the cost being around $10 to $15 each. Is that cost justified? A hay analysis prior to purchase offers one of the greatest returns on investment in the ranching business.
To illustrate how important this is, assume you have the option of purchasing hay from three different lots. Without an analysis, you have no idea of their quality. So how do you know which is the better buy? You have to sample it for analysis. Once you know the nutritive value, there are several ways to determine hay value.
One is to calculate the amount of supplemental feed that will be needed, if any, to meet the nutritional needs of the class of animal to which you will be feeding the hay. Let's say you will be feeding it to a 1,200-lb., spring-calving cow through a 135-day winter period. She will be non-lactating, and in her second trimester for 45 days and last trimester for 90 days. Table 1 shows three hays and their nutritional values for total digestible nutrients (TDN) and crude protein (CP).
For comparison, what would the total winter feed costs per cow be using 20% cubes costing $364 per ton to supplement each of the three hays?
The range in hay quality used in this simple example is fairly common and often even greater. Knowing quality before buying made an incremental difference in winter feed costs of roughly $20 per cow between each of these hays and over $40 from best to worst as illustrated in Table 2. The cost of an analysis for CP and TDN is trivial compared to the value of knowing what you are feeding. For details on taking hay samples, see Sampling Hay and Standing Forage by Hugh Aljoe.
Written by Josh Gaskamp, email@example.com
Coyotes (Canis latrans) have long been considered a nuisance for livestock producers and white-tailed deer managers in Texas and Oklahoma. Shooting, trapping, snaring, poisoning and everything in between have been used to reduce coyote populations to comfortable levels. What is a comfortable level? Are historical management practices dictating what level of predator control we conduct on our property?
Coyotes are extremely intelligent animals with keen senses of hearing, sight and smell. They weigh an average of 25 lb. to 40 lb., and their coat color can include greys, reds and browns. They are primarily nocturnal and very opportunistic, feeding on rabbits, rodents, ground-nesting birds and insects. Coyotes also eat carrion, lizards, snakes, fruits, white-tailed deer and feral hogs. Coyotes breed from January through March, with a gestation period of about 63 days and an average litter size of six pups. The coyote's adaptability allows them to change diets throughout the year to match availability of different prey species as well as utilize a variety of different habitats.The coyote's range is extensive across the U.S. They can be found throughout Oklahoma and Texas.
In the spring, coyotes can shift their diets to be more venison-heavy in response to fawning. Removing predators can reduce fawn mortality and should be done in areas of declining deer population. However, many deer managers implement control techniques to reduce coyote populations at this time without considering overall deer herd health. The knee-jerk reaction is to control predators when they are eating what you're managing. However, other techniques can be used to cope with predators without undertaking an intensive predator removal campaign.
First, consider managing habitat. This is often the easiest and most effective practice to implement. Ensuring there is adequate fawning cover will protect many of the fawns. Fawning cover is typically moderate to tall grasses but can occasionally be low-growing brush. Good fawning cover reduces the impact predators can have on a fawn crop. Second, consider the deer herd. Many deer hunters and managers across Texas and Oklahoma are applying for management permits through their state wildlife departments to harvest more deer. If we truly have an increasing number of deer, maybe we should allow the coyotes to help us manage the population.
If the deer herd has a balanced age structure and sex ratio, then predator swamping occurs. Predator swamping is when all of the fawns are born at the same time, providing only a short period of time for the predators to consume them. Coyotes can only consume so many fawns at once, allowing other deer to reach the age and strength that makes them more capable of escape.
Are coyotes friend or foe? I'd say that depends on your situation. Outline the goals for your property, and take steps to help you best reach them. You may find that coyotes can be an asset on your property.
Written by Russell Stevens, email@example.com and Chad Ellis, email@example.com
With the increased publicity regarding controlled burning and wildlife management associations, some people have expressed interest in forming an association but do not quite know where or how to begin. There are many ways to form an association, but there are some important steps to consider.
To be successful, an association should be a locally led, grassroots effort. Governmental and non-governmental agencies can assist by serving as advisors, providing technical assistance and removing bureaucratic roadblocks; but without local leaders and local involvement, an association will fail – period. Creating and maintaining a locally led association is absolutely the single most important aspect to consider.
There are two basic ways to organize an association and either will work. The first way is to organize loosely with or without officers, and the second is to formally elect officers and develop bylaws and other pertinent information. If the association wants to become a nonprofit corporation such as a 501(c)(3), formal organization or qualifying to become affiliated with an existing nonprofit with the same goals and objectives is required. A 501(c)(3) status makes an association eligible to apply for grants and receive tax-deductible charitable donations.
Many people are uncertain about how to begin, but there are many ways to start forming an association. The following actions may help:
There are many benefits of forming an association. Major ones include sharing of equipment and labor, management of natural resources such as wildlife habitat and populations over a larger area, and accomplishing or influencing other activities as a result of a group of people working together. It is not easy and requires time, but these benefits are worth it.
Written by Steve Swigert, email@example.com
Since recent droughts have caused a lack of available forage in many areas, the incentive to retain heifers and purchase cows has been very low. This situation is coupled with the high value of heifer calves after weaning, preconditioning or the stocker phase. It makes the decision to retain or purchase females extremely difficult. As a result, the cattle inventory has declined to levels not seen since the 1930s and 1940s, and the value of heifer calves has risen to all-time record highs.
With low cow numbers, historic high prices for weaned calves and the cost of cows at record highs for the foreseeable future, this means good, young, producing cows are going to be hard to find. Prices will consistently exceed $2,000 per cow.
How much could cows be worth? Based on $550 annual cow cost, 88 percent calf crop and $180 per hundredweight average price for a 525-pound calf over seven production years, a $2,150 cow/calf pair purchased in the spring of 2014 would have a 10 percent return on investment.
In determining if this investment should be made, producers should ask themselves a few questions. Are more cows needed? Is there enough grass for more cows? Is there a better alternative use for the grass than cows (e.g., retained ownership of owned calves or purchased stockers)? Are the estimates in the previous example higher or lower than your operation? Can financing be secured for cows at the higher price?
If it is determined that cows are the best option, then the decision has to be made when to buy the cows, and what type and age of female. Because of the cow cost and the value of the calves, the timing of the purchase can make a significant difference in the value of the cow (a cow is typically more valuable the closer it is to the sale of a calf). Also the age of the cow will make a difference because younger females will typically have more economic value because they will have more calves.
For example, using the previous assumptions, let us compare the value of an open heifer, bred heifer and first-calf heifer pair. If a first-calf heifer pair is worth $2,150, then a bred heifer would be worth approximately $2,050 and an open heifer (that will be bred in May for spring calving) would be worth approximately $1,450.
All of these factors should be considered when making the decision to buy cows at a time when cow and calf prices are at a premium. It is extremely important to know and understand the ranch's annual cost to maintain a cow, the percent weaned calf crop and the weaning weight per calf. All these factors will weigh into how much can be invested in a cow and have a reasonable return.
Written by Ryan Reuter, firstname.lastname@example.com
Sorting cattle is one of the real arts of animal husbandry. Sorting can be done for many reasons and by many methods.
Often the goal of sorting a group of cattle is to put like kinds together. For instance, one might sort cows from calves, steers from heifers, etc. Sale barns typically sort the load of calves that you bring them so that they will bring the most money. If they can sort your calves into groups of 10 or more head that all match in terms of sex, size and type, then those calves will get a premium. If nothing matches anything else, they have to sort them into singles so that each calf can be presented to the buyer who wants that type.
If you intend to sell a group of feeder calves "in the country," you will likely want to sort that group so that the calves you sell fit your description, and you can keep the calves that are too light for the sale group. In another scenario, you may want to sort thin cows from fatter cows so that you can feed the two groups differently. While rarely needed in a commercial enterprise, cattle in research projects are often sorted randomly into groups so that each group is as much like the other groups as possible. This helps to avoid any bias in the results. In any case, you can see that sorting is a skill that allows for good management decisions to be implemented.
Sorting cattle can be accomplished successfully in many ways. The key is controlling the animals so the behavior of individuals can be managed at will. This is a little different concept than moving herds of cattle around, which is sort of controlling the behavior of the herd as a group. One of the best ways to sort cattle is to put them in an alley about 12 feet wide and sort as they go past the sorter down the alley. The sorter can use a sorting stick (my favorite), a "rattle paddle," an empty sack, a hat or nothing at all to help sort the cattle. If the cattle are gentle, the facilities are in good shape and the sorter is skilled (admittedly, a rare combination), sometimes very subtle movements by the sorter are all that is needed to achieve the desired effect.
Sorting can also be done on horseback (the origin of the sport of cutting) either in pens or out in the open. Dogs can help sort cattle as well, although some dogs I have seen were not very accurate in the way they sorted.
Facility design can be a big help in sorting cattle. Dr. Joseph Stookey at the University of Saskatchewan published an interesting video on YouTube (http://youtu.be/ P4FUE-OrXRw) about a novel way to sort pairs.
If you are going to be sorting a lot of cattle, you need a helper. It is efficient to have a sorter who makes the sorting decision and calls to the helper on how to swing the gate. My dad is a second-generation order buyer, and he sorts a lot of cattle. My grandfather was also an order buyer and invented (as far as we know) a swinging gate for sorting cattle that is about the best I have ever seen. Here is a video to show how it works: http://youtu.be/6Ea5Ntgbol8.
Modern technology is also helping us sort cattle. MicroBeef's ACCU-TRAC system is in use by a few commercial feedyards. At the processing barn, their system uses lasers and video cameras to send data to a computer which automatically operates hydraulic sort gates. It is very effective for large operations.
Work to develop your skills at sorting cattle, and consider how you might modify your facilities to make sorting easier and less stressful. When it is easy to sort, you will sort more; then you can manage better. And as my grandpa said, "Son, if you would slow down, this wouldn't take so long."
Written by James Rogers
If you use a dual-purpose wheat system of grazing and grain production, detection of the development of wheat's first hollow stem is critical to gauge when to remove cattle from grazing. If you remove cattle too soon, prior to first hollow stem development, you will lose cattle gain. If you wait too long past first hollow stem, you will reduce grain yield potential.
Typically, first hollow stem will occur from February to early March. The timing of first hollow stem can vary as much as three weeks from year to year. This makes scouting fields for determination of first hollow stem important. Increasing day length and temperature are the big signals for wheat to switch from vegetative production to reproduction, but these are influenced by variety, planting date, soil fertility, soil moisture and grazing.
Wheat has reached first hollow stem when there is 5/8 inch or about the diameter of a dime of hollow stem below the developing wheat head (Figure 1). Detection of first hollow stem is easy, but it is important to look at wheat that has not been grazed to make the determination. Grazing delays first hollow stem occurrence, meaning that by the time you detect first hollow stem in grazed areas, you may be well past the time when cattle should have been pulled off.
Pull up several plants or select the largest tillers from several plants and cut them off slightly below the level of the soil at the very top of the roots. Collect the largest tillers, take a sharp knife or blade, and split the stem lengthwise a few inches up, starting at the base of the tiller. Look for the developing wheat head in the stem of the tiller. It is the somewhat bullet-shaped structure pushing up through the stem. The stem below the seed head will be hollow, which is then measured for length.
The effect of grazing past first hollow stem on grain yield will vary based on environmental conditions for recovery after grazing and the intensity of grazing. Data from Oklahoma State University (OSU), based on the combined results of two research studies, show that grazing five days past first hollow stem can reduce grain yield by 13 percent (OSU Fact Sheet AGEC-265).
For operations that have had the opportunity to produce both stocker gain and grazing, it has seldom paid to graze past first hollow stem, due to reduction in grain yield. In years when cattle prices are high and wheat prices low, additional returns can be made from cattle by continuing to graze past first hollow stem. For 2014, that decision may be tougher to make with both high grain prices and record-setting feeder cattle prices.
To help make the decision to either pull cattle off of wheat at first hollow stem or to graze past it for additional weight gain, OSU has developed a Grazeout Decision Maker program. This Excel spreadsheet can be downloaded at http://agecon.okstate.edu/faculty/publications/3443.xlsm. It consists of four parts: producer information, cattle information, wheat information and results. This spreadsheet is easy to use, customizable to your inputs and can generate financial results to help you make the decision of grazing termination or continuation.
by Job Springer
The Southern Great Plains has seen better forage growing conditions in 2013 than in many recent years. This has been, in part, due to less wind, cooler temperatures and more rainfall. Many ranchers are beginning to chomp at the bit to use these additional forages and are thus looking to rebuild their cow herds. For ranchers looking to rebuild their herds from within the ranch, the question arises as to how much it will cost to raise their own replacement heifers. While every ranch has its own set of unique resources, this article addresses the question of how much it will cost an average-sized ranch in the Southern Great Plains to raise replacement heifers in 2013 and 2014.
According to the 2007 Census of Agriculture, the average herd size in the Southern Great Plains is approximately 43 head. A rancher trying to expand his herd will need to exceed the typical attrition rate of 17% (seven head). In this example, 14 heifers will be used as the initial selection number of potential replacement females.
Replacement heifers need to be approximately 65 percent of their mature weight at the time of breeding. Therefore, a typical herd in the Southern Great Plains would see heifers being bred around 750 pounds. This is a pivotal point when the rancher can either sell a feeder heifer or decide to keep the heifer on the farm as a replacement A spring-calving cow herd will see many heifers being covered as early as March or April. According to the futures market, these 750-pound heifers would be worth $151 per hundredweight or $1,132.50 per head.
During the next nine months, several operating costs will be incurred by the ranch, including use of owned or leased forage at $162 per heifer; supplemental feed when standing forage is limited or requires supplementation at $79.20 per heifer; free-choice mineral at $39.15 per heifer; pre-breeding vaccinations, fly control and dewormer at $8 per heifer; a 1 percent death loss at $14.24 per heifer; sickness at $1.25 per heifer; a pregnancy test at $6 per heifer; labor at $207.92 per heifer; breeding bull's annual depreciation at $36.79 per heifer; and the annual cash expenses associated with the bull at $42.86 per heifer. The accumulated expenses so far are $1,729.91 per heifer.
Other expenses are incurred to the ranch when replacement heifers are raised on the ranch. These expenses include a loss on replacement heifers that were not bred or abort at $48.34 per heifer; utilization of ranch resources during the year a replacement heifer is raised instead of running productive cows at $112.50 per heifer (raising replacement heifers, instead of purchasing, displaces productive cows or other livestock); and a forgone implant at weaning of heifer calves that would have added weight and value had the heifer been sold at $46.30 per heifer (replacement heifers should not be administered an implant).
When all expenses are considered, the average-sized ranch in the Southern Great Plains will have approximately $1,937 tied up in each productive replacement heifer produced on the ranch in the coming year. Many ranchers have experienced sticker shock when they have priced replacement heifers from other ranches. However, if a rancher is able to locate replacement heifers elsewhere at a lower price, it would be worth considering the outside purchase, depending on the goals of the operation.
A similar evaluation should be made on your respective operation to determine whether or not it makes economic sense to raise or purchase quality replacement heifers. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you might have at firstname.lastname@example.com. ?
by Bryan Nichols and Ryan Reuter
Excellent rainfall in most parts of southern Oklahoma and northern Texas during the 2013 growing season has prompted some producers to consider increasing their cow numbers. Selecting replacement females is no small decision. Their breed type, fertility, conformation, mature size, milking ability and color will all play a role in the future profitability of an operation.
One frequent topic in discussions of bull and female selection is choosing closely related animals, such as half-siblings, to increase uniformity of the offspring. Increasing uniformity of the calf crop is important to cow-calf producers because more uniform lots may receive higher sale prices at market. Lack of uniformity has also been cited as a primary quality concern for industry segments from packers to restaurateurs, according to the 2005 National Beef Quality Audit. It is logical that as offspring become more related, genetic variability decreases and, hence, the phenotypic variability of animals will decrease. However, it is very important to further explore the details in order to judge the magnitude of change that can be expected.
Since this is a quantitative genetics question, math can be used to estimate the phenotypic changes a producer could expect, given certain breeding situations. The two values that must be known to make these estimates are the coefficient of genetic relatedness (GR) and the heritability of a given trait. Genetic relatedness is the probability that two individuals share an allele due to recent common ancestry. As GR increases, the variation in a trait will decrease in proportion to the trait's heritability. In this article, the decrease in variation will be expressed as a percentage relative to a group of unrelated animals, where the unrelated animals equal 100 percent. Therefore, as the percentage gets smaller, the variation of the trait decreases, i.e., the animals are more uniform. This percentage is calculated as:
Table 1 shows that an unrelated bull battery bred to an unrelated cow herd has a genetic relatedness of 0 percent; therefore, the calf crop expresses all of the expected variation. As the genetic relatedness of the calf crop increases, the expected phenotypic variation decreases. A fairly common practice used is that of selecting all half-sibling bulls. Table 1 shows that if breeding half-sibling bulls to unrelated cows and evaluating a trait with high heritability (40%), variation in the calf crop for that trait is only expected to decrease by 1.3% (100% - 98.7% = 1.3%).
This value is likely much less than what most people would expect it to be. If taken one step further by selecting half-sibling females and breeding them to half-sibling bulls, variation is still only expected to decrease by 2.5 percent. Interestingly, if one went as far as producing a calf crop that is all full siblings, variation would still only be reduced by 10.6 percent compared to an unrelated calf crop.
These numbers indicate that substantial advances in calf crop uniformity will likely not be attained very quickly by using closely related breeding stock. Cattle producers who wish to increase uniformity of the calf crop through genetic selection should likely focus on selecting animals with optimal values for desired traits (i.e., similar expected progeny differences) regardless of their genetic relationships. Producers are encouraged to select commercial females that are accompanied by little or no genetic information based on phenotypic traits (e.g., frame size, conformation, docility) that match their goals and production environment. ?
—By Clay Wright / firstname.lastname@example.com
Typically, planning a winter feeding program has been fairly straightforward: estimate the number of cattle to be wintered, the amount of standing forage that will be available and how much hay is needed to get to spring grass. Then a least-cost supplement (if needed) to fill in nutritional gaps was easily identified. It's still timely in August to start the planning process, but it may be a little more complicated in 2013 than usual.
Many producers haven't restocked to pre-drought cow numbers, and the welcomed rains this spring and summer throughout most of the Southern Great Plains region have resulted in excess forage. When frost arrives this fall, there will be abundant standing forage in many areas, but the quality will be more extreme than we typically encounter. Several factors are involved.
To begin with, some pastures in Texas and Oklahoma were lightly grazed or completely deferred with large amounts of low-quality residue left from ryegrass and other cool-season annuals that proliferated into early summer. Some producers hayed the winter annuals to release the warm-season perennials underneath, and that hay quality usually ranges from poor to average. Due to reduced stocking rates and low grazing pressure this summer, many warm-season perennial pastures will go into the winter in a patch-grazed condition with variable qualities of standing forage within the same paddock. These conditions have been a challenge to grazing management this growing season. The results will also make it more difficult to figure out supplementation: when to begin, what kind and how much.
Historically, spring-calving cows are allowed to selectively graze standing forage after weaning and are able to meet their protein and energy requirements without any supplement. At some point, protein in the standing forage becomes limiting and we routinely supply a high-protein supplement that enables the cows to meet energy needs from the remaining excess forage before going to hay. Once hay feeding begins, any needed supplement is provided based on a nutritional analysis of the hay. Historically, when only protein is needed, supplements with the highest level of protein have usually been the most economical on a cost per pound of protein basis.
Here are a couple of differences I see between this fall and winter compared to the pre-drought years. First, as stated above, many producers will go into the fall and winter with more excess forage than ever before. With lower stocking rates, the cows could selectively graze a diet with adequate protein and energy to meet their needs longer into the winter. That's a good thing, but there may still be abundant quantity available when the forage quality drops below adequate and supplementation is needed. To estimate when supplementation is needed, see Here's A New Kind of 'B.S.' Degree.
Second, the cost per pound of protein in supplement choices may not favor the highest analysis this year.
Keep in mind that prices will change between now and fall – your prices may be different and no labor or storage factors were considered. In summary, now is the time to begin planning your winter feeding program, but historic assumptions may not apply in light of current conditions.
by Jagadeesh Mosali
Surface soil produces our food and is vital for life. This precious resource is often called "skin of the Earth" and, just like skin, it is important to protect and maintain its quality. Soil quality is the inherent capacity of a particular soil to support human health and habitation; maintain or enhance air and water quality; and, most importantly, sustain plant and animal productivity. From an agricultural standpoint, soil quality is vital for improving long-term agricultural productivity and maximizing profits through sustainable productivity.
It is important for soil to both function optimally for current needs and remain healthy for future use. Soil organic matter, tillage, soil compaction, soil structure, depth of soil, water-holding capacity, electrical conductivity, pH, ground cover, microbial biodiversity, carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (C:N ratio) and nutrient management are some of the important parameters of soil quality.
Improving and maintaining soil organic matter content is the most important quality parameter. Increasing organic matter improves soil structure as well as water- and nutrient-holding capacity, supports soil microbes, and protects soil from erosion and compaction. Organic matter can be improved by using no-till or minimum till methods, growing cover crops, leaving crop residues, and using rotations with crops that balance optimal water and nutrient management practices.
Using reduced tillage practices will protect the soil surface, which decreases soil erosion and soil compaction, and decreases the loss of organic matter. Reduction in tillage also decreases the potential for destroying soil structure. Soil compaction can be caused by using heavy equipment on the surface when the soil is wet. Compaction will reduce the amount of air, water and pore space for growth of both soil microbes and plant roots. Soil compaction can be reduced by minimizing equipment use when the ground is wet and combining multiple farm tasks, such as applying both herbicides and fertilizer in one trip.
Growing cover crops and leaving residue from previous crops is the best way to reduce soil erosion by wind and water. Ground cover can be increased by growing perennial crops like grasses in a pasture situation. Ground cover will improve water availability, but care should be taken to manage it properly to prevent disease outbreak.
Soil quality also relies on microbial organisms. Diversity in soil microbes may be helpful in controlling pest populations, diseases and weeds. Biodiversity can be achieved by increasing long-term crop rotations, since each plant in rotation contributes to unique soil structure and plant residue.
Understanding how to improve soil quality is aided by knowledge of the carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratio for managing cover crops and nutrient cycling. The C:N ratio is the amount of carbon to the amount of nitrogen in a residue or other organic material applied to soil. If material with a higher C:N ratio residue is applied, it takes longer to decompose and may immobilize inorganic fertilizers that are applied. This problem can be reduced by growing a low C:N ratio crop (e.g., vetch or other legumes) in rotation with a high C:N ratio crop (e.g., wheat straw).
Finally, efficient nutrient management is important in maintaining soil quality. Test your soils regularly and make sure that you store all your records. Examining records over time will tell whether the management practices that were followed increased or depleted soil nutrients. Too much fertilizer or manure may cause groundwater contamination or may run off and enter water bodies and degrade water quality. Application of nutrients based on a soil test will alleviate this problem.
What works on one farm may not work on another. Adjust your management plan by observing changes in soil quality on your farm. Wise management decisions will improve the overall quality of the soil. Being proactive, rather than reactive, will make you a better steward of this limited resource.
—by Dan Childs
In a free market economy, price is ultimately determined by the supply and demand for a product or commodity. Short-term price gyrations often occur and can be influenced by market reactions to news concerning such things as weather, government reports and/or policy.
Profitability in the cattle industry is heavily influenced by the price of corn. Corn, fed whole or further processed, is used as an energy supplement in growing rations and as a main ingredient in the diet of cattle being finished for slaughter. In addition, the byproducts produced from corn processed for food and fuel, such as corn germ, hominy feed, corn gluten feed and distillers grain, are used extensively in cattle rations. Having an understanding of corn market dynamics can be useful in helping cattle owners manage the price of feed, one of the major costs of production.
The price of corn is largely determined by supply and demand. On the supply side, there are basically three sources of U.S. corn. The first source comes from leftover stocks from the previous year. This usually provides between 1 and 2 billion bushels, although the 2013 number will likely be roughly 750 million bushels due to the reduced 2012 crop.
The second and largest contributor to supply is current domestic production. In the last 10 years, the nation's corn crop has varied from 10 to 14 billion bushels. Weather plays an important role in crop production. This is especially true in regard to planting and harvest dates, both of which impact the total size of the crop. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) publishes several crop reports each year: a late March report on acres expected to be planted; weekly crop progress reports from April through November; and estimated ending stock reports in January, March, June and September. These reports often cause wide price swings as the market interprets the numbers.
The third source comes from international imports – typically only a few million bushels. However, imports will be higher than average in 2013 because of high U.S. corn prices. Current estimates for 2013 are near 150 million bushels. All these sources added together have provided the U.S. corn market with an average of 13 to 14 billion bushels during the last 10 years.
There are also three major sources of demand for corn. The first category is feed and residual. On average during the last 10 years, roughly 4.5 billion to 5 billion bushels, or 35% of the corn, is used for feed. There has been a significant decline in the amount of corn used for feed during the last five years.
The second source of demand is exports. The U.S. is a major supplier of corn to many countries, including Japan. Over the last decade, the U.S. has, on average, exported just short of 2 billion bushels each year. This accounts for less than 15% of the total supply.
The final category, at roughly 40% of the supply, is food and industrial use. The largest component in this category is ethanol production. Year-end stocks can also be considered part of demand since the market prefers to have some cushion going into the next crop.
Supply and demand interact to determine price. The market does react to short-term events, but knowing the sources of supply and demand, and when estimates of these are released, will provide the opportunity to purchase corn and cattle feed at lower prices.
by Corey Moffet, Frank Motal, Josh Gaskamp, and Mike Proctor
Prescribed fire is a powerful tool that can be used to achieve management goals and manipulate vegetation. When conducting the burn, good communication between the burn crew members is critical for conducting it safely.
A common bit of information that needs to be communicated among crew members is where resources, such as a containment or ignition crew, are located. To facilitate this need, crew members are typically issued a map showing the burn unit and several labeled locations along the burn boundary prior to the burn. Radio communications reference these labeled locations. An example communication might involve an escaped spot fire. The location of the spot fire needs to be communicated to the burn boss. In turn, the burn boss will communicate which resources will respond and where the fire has escaped relative to the nearest labeled point.
A desire to improve on this system led us to ask, "Is there an app for that?" A search for an app specifically designed for aiding in conducting prescribed burns or managing wildfire responses was not successful. One app we found that looked promising, ActInNature, is designed as a hunting app. It is available for iPhone, Android phone or Android tablet, and it has several features we were seeking. The app supports basic (i.e., free) and advanced user (for a small annual subscription) types, the main difference being that advanced users can edit "areas" and share "tags." We used "areas" to define the burn unit and "tags" to mark points of interest, such as ignition sequence points. The app also polls weather data and provides current wind speed, direction, temperature and relative humidity. Advanced users also get three-hour and six-hour temperature and relative humidity forecasts.
Our experience with this app for conducting prescribed burns was generally good. We used the app with one advanced user and the rest as basic users. We set up a group, which allowed us to define areas and tags that only the group could see. This also required users to enter a password chosen by the advanced user. All users could see other group users regardless of the distance between them. Without groups, only users within a 5-mile radius are displayed. This feature is nice because a group member, anywhere in the world, can view progress being made on the burn.
The advanced user digitized the burn unit on the ActInNature website, used their mobile device to add tags at the ignition sequence locations and then shared the tags with the group. The ability of each crew member to see his position on the map was helpful. The ignition crew could quickly confirm where they were, relative to other crew members and the burn boundary. It was easy to adjust the pace for ignition sequences where it is desirable that one ignition crew be igniting at a more downwind position relative to the other crew. It is also reassuring to see where the containment crews are positioned and their progress on patrol. During mop-up, it was useful for the advanced user to add and share tags or spots that needed attention from the crew.
On the downside, the app requires a good network connection (i.e., 3G or better), which is still not available in many rural areas. In addition, the app does not play well with other software. For example, there is no ability to import maps created with other GIS software, and tracks created by GPS fixes of where a user has been can't be exported. The name of each tag is not displayed – only the symbol – so the user had to select the tag to get the name of a point. Finally, the app accesses GPS often, which means it uses a lot of power. This is not a problem if the device is in a vehicle or is plugged into an external power supply. For users that are on foot, it may be helpful to get an external battery pack to extend the battery life. Perhaps someday there will be an app specifically designed to conduct prescribed burns; in the meantime, the ActInNature app brings some abilities that we would not otherwise have.
Spring is the season when most begin thinking about controlling weeds and other pests. Producers who choose to control pests (weeds, insects or diseases) with chemicals are faced with deciding whether to hire a commercial custom applicator or to self-apply pesticides to their own property or crops (i.e., be a private applicator). The right choice depends on each producer's individual circumstances. This article will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each system.
First, determine if a reliable custom applicator is available for hire at a reasonable price. Custom applicators provide advantages of efficiency and convenience. Due to dedicated equipment and specialized personnel, they can treat more acres per day than most private applicators. A reliable custom applicator will apply the requested products, at the requested rate, to the requested pastures or fields in a timely manner. Their equipment should be calibrated and able to apply pesticides without streaking or excessive overspray. They should only spray under acceptable environmental conditions and do everything reasonable to avoid off-target spray drift. Many, if not most, custom applicators can supply the pesticides, thus eliminating the need for producers to maintain their own chemical inventories and dispose of empty pesticide containers. Custom application is not viable if there are no custom applicators available who meet these criteria.
A common disadvantage of relying on custom applicators is incorrect pesticide application timing. The efficacy of any pesticide depends on applying it at the correct time for the target pest; often, that time frame is very short. The same pest problems can develop for many clients at the same time since custom applicators typically serve a particular geographic region and producers in that region frequently grow the same crops. Having a large number of client requests at the same time, coupled with delays due to weather or equipment problems, can result in even the best custom applicators missing the optimum application timing.
Secondly, producers should evaluate their resources and management style prior to deciding to be a private applicator – especially if a reliable custom applicator is available. A major factor is whether or not a suitable sprayer is already owned or must be purchased. Another important and often overlooked factor is whether a producer is willing to commit to spraying in a timely manner. When investigating control failures, producers often say they did not have time to spray when application was needed. If other activities are going to preclude spraying at the right time, it is an easy decision to hire a reliable custom applicator.
There are many advantages to being a private applicator if a producer is willing to commit the necessary time. The greatest advantage is usually improved pest management due to timely application. Private applicators can closely monitor pests and treat at the optimum pest stage and under favorable weather conditions. Another benefit is the ability to treat only the areas of the field that have the target pest problem. This is often an option for post-emergence herbicide applications and can significantly save on pesticide costs. Private applicators can continue their financial savings by shopping around for the best pesticide prices.
If the decision to hire a custom applicator or be a private applicator is purely economic, other factors need to be considered. Economies of scale play a large role in determining if owning a sprayer is economically feasible. This means the more acres allocated to the sprayer decreases fixed costs per acre. However, remember to include all operating costs when comparing custom versus private application. These costs include fuel, oil and lube, maintenance and repairs, operating and tendering labor, and interest on operating expenses.
There are advantages and disadvantages to both custom and private application. Producers must make their own decisions about which system is the right choice for their operations. Custom pesticide application is often an easy decision for many small acreage or absentee landowners due to economies of scale or convenience. However, private application can provide advantages in flexibility of application timing, improved efficacy and reduced pesticide use. Producers should consider the advantages and disadvantages, including economic analyses, of each management system prior to making a decision.
Stocker cattle producers in the Southern Great Plains grow winter wheat for pasture grazing. However, most available wheat varieties being used in southern Oklahoma today are at least 30 years old. To provide producers with the newest cultivars, the Noble Foundation and Oklahoma State University (OSU) have created a five-year collaboration to expand grazing wheat cultivar research and development.
The ultimate goal of our collaboration is to create a new cultivar for producers to graze in the southern Oklahoma and northern Texas region. Ideally, the cultivar would be dual purpose, producing a high grain yield after grazing.
OSU has a rich legacy of producing quality wheat cultivars for grain production, especially for north and west Oklahoma. However, some of these cultivars would fit well in the southern Oklahoma and northern Texas region as a grazing cultivar, but there has not been an outlet for those lines until now.
Brett Carver, Ph.D., wheat breeding and genetics professor at OSU, explained: "We have access to the latest research and technology to dig deeper into other traits within genetic backgrounds that were previously underexplored. In the long run, we are able to develop and cultivate a better relationship and make better use of our complementary missions. We are better utilizing all of our resources for a better product."
The first set of genetic materials received from OSU consisted of 36 lines and was planted at the end of October 2012. These vary from lines that are primarily grain types and would not be available for release. Some are potential grazing types, and others are varieties that are currently being used by producers in the region. All of the cultivars are being evaluated under grazing conditions.
This first trial will end in late spring 2013, and a new trial year will begin with new experimental lines in the fall of 2013. However, some lines that have potential as grazing releases may be evaluated in further research, such as testing under heavier grazing conditions and experiments that explore animal daily gain.


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Kristen Bell in Yellow Bikini in Miami
Actress Kristen Bell sports a yellow bikini and denim shorts in Miami Beach, Florida on April 8, 2011.
Source: INFDaily
that girl is hot!!! the one laying on the chair who looks like she is looking at that guy that's sleeping hahaha
Thanks for the isnghit. It brings light into the dark!
Looks like she has a big muff.

subset: commoncrawl


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Gear Question
I heard this board was your "quiver killer,"...
I heard this board was your "quiver killer," making it decent for the backcountry to the groomers to the park. Every time I see a description, though, it is described as a "freestyle" board. I don't plan on doing many rails or jibs, but I expect to be able to land a 10-foot drop with this. Or am I asking for a broken board/leg/skull and maybe should stick to my DC HKD?
Christopher Shephard
Hey bro! I had a skunk ape from 2007/2008. I rode it a lot in the park especially on boxes because it was very smooth and extremely stable for a freestyle board. Don't get me wrong, it has a lot of pop but I think you'll be just fine hittin' 10 foot kickers. I wouldn't go bigger than that though.....then you'll feel some pain! LOL;-) Board safe homie!
It's hard not to nail a landing with a wide skunk ape 169. Hit some drops at Stowe with it and landing wasn't any issue. Just remember it's a really fast board and speed check if needed.
View More Details on Lib Technologies Skunk Ape BTX Snowboard - Wide


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Blunden, Edmund
Line breaks: Ed¦mund Blun|denPronunciation: /ˈblʌndən
Definition of Blunden, Edmund in English:
( 1896–1974), English poet and critic; full name Edmund Charles Blunden. His poetry reveals his love of the English countryside, while his prose work Undertones of War (1928) deals with his experiences in the First World War.
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8 Ways to Ruin a Relationship
While most of the time, those of us who offer couples counseling and/or write about relationships try to stay positive, every now and again reality sucker-punches us back to our senses.
The fact remains that despite all the wise advice doled out over the years, we haven't budged the divorce rate in the U.S. Most relationships fail — there's simply no way to argue with it.
So maybe it would help to offer ways to catch signs of a failing relationship before it's too late. Sure, we all would like to think that we could see the end of our relationship coming from a mile away. But truth is, many of us need a little help.
To that end, here are 8 ways you can bet you're ruining your relationship and heading to splitsville.
1. Take your partner for granted.
There's no better way to help hurry the end of the relationship than to just assume your partner is always there to make your life easier. Whether it's by going to work or staying at home, cooking dinner or doing the grocery shopping, the ins and outs of our every day existence can take an especially hard toll when it comes to taking that special someone in our lives for granted.
Acknowledge your significant other's efforts to nurture your relationship and life together (no matter who is doing what). Say "thank you" and "please" for being served something or for someone doing you a favor. After all, you wouldn't treat a stranger in your home in that manner, so why would you treat the one you love any worse?
2. Stop talking.
Remember the start of your relationship? You couldn't stop talking! You might've spent all night talking to one another, or countless hours on the phone or cuddled up on a couch somewhere.
Relationships die when the two people in it stop talking. And I don't mean actual, physical talking ("We talk all the time!"). I mean the kind of real, honest conversations that couples have all the time at the beginning of a relationship, but which fade over time. Here's help for improving your communication with your partner.
That fading is a natural progression in most relationships. The key is to not let that fading turn into never having those real conversations (which aren't about the kids, your jobs, or what you read on TMZ today).
3. Stop expressing your feelings.
As we go along in a relationship, it's also natural to stop saying, "I love you" as often. Or showing anger when you're angry at your partner, or showing adoration when you're feeling especially loving toward them. It's as if the extremes of our emotions are taken away, and all we have left is a lot of moderate, unsexy feelings.
As much as you might think those feelings are too boring to share, they remain just as important to share. Yes, the passionate feelings at the begining of any relationship tend to fade for most people. But that doesn't mean you stop feeling, or that you should stop telling your loved one how you feel.
4. Stop listening.


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With just the turn of a dial, you can automatically change your resistance on each dumbbell from 5 pounds all the way up to 52.5 pounds of weight. It adjusts in 2.5-pound increments (up to 25 pounds), enabling you to gradually increase your strength without bulking up.
Manufacturer Warranty
Two-year limited warranty on all parts; five-year warranty on weight plates; one-year warranty on labor


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Forums >Suggestions and Feature Requests>Coach's access
This still on the back burner?
And you can quote me as saying I was mis-quoted. Groucho Marx
Speaking of tangents, I think it would be great to
Sorry guys. I have to back burner this because of more pressing tasks. It's still on top of the pile though.
Thanks Eric -- just trying to keep it from falling out of the pile...
Just checking in again Eric. Going to be starting base building soon for my spring track runners...
Did this get re-prioritized again?


text: Was so excited to eat here! Read many reviews and had the tuk tuk driver driving in circles, only to find that it is closed down! Ate at Viva's instead as i was craving Mexican. Only ok. Good location. It may just be closed because New Year's is coming up but it looked closed down.


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Prevention Archives
Are You Fueling or Poisoning Your Body?
In today's culture of skinny jeans and pencil skirts, the choice of diet meals and drinks can appear to be an alluring solution to achieving body image expectation. Snacks, drinks, and meals line grocery store shelves labeled as "sugar-free" and "low calorie." Sounds like a simple choice, right? After all, processed sugar isn't recommended by… Read More →
Tips to stay safe while driving during holidays
With the holiday season upon us, safe and responsible driving is more important than ever. The increased traffic, seasonal parties and unpredictable weather conditions all pose a dangerous threat to Phoenix roads and contribute to an increase in traffic crashes and injuries. The Traffic Safety Coalition (TSC) urges citizens to drive responsibly during this busy… Read More →
Tips for parents to keep Halloween healthy
It's Halloween. You don't want to be the house that's known for giving out carrot sticks, but you'd also like to hand out sweet treats that's aren't so bad on kids' teeth. That's where Chandler Dentist J. Philipp's suggestions can help: The Good Candies • Sugar free lollipops stimulate saliva production, which flushes away bacteria.… Read More →
5 Brain-Health Tips from Bodybuilding Neurosurgeon
As a fitness expert and neurosurgeon, Dr. Brett Osborn says he appreciates the growing public interest in general health and fitness. Now, he says, that attention needs to extend to arguably our most essential organ – the brain. "There are several, multi-billion dollar industries out there dedicated to burning fat and building muscle; cognitive health,… Read More →
Arizona health official: Get your flu shot
Arizona's top health official says it's time to get vaccinated for the flu and to encourage others to do the same. The flu season usually starts in October, and state Health Services Director Will Humble says steps now underway include monitoring reported cases and distributing distribution of vaccines. He says officials also are testing flu… Read More →
Peripheral Artery Disease: Are you at risk?
September is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Awareness Month. PAD is a serious circulatory problem in which the blood vessels that carry blood to your arms, legs, brain, or kidneys, become narrowed or clogged. An estimated eight to 12 million people have peripheral artery disease, but because many people do not know the warning signs or… Read More →
Do your kids eat right?
Every parent wants good things for their children: a positive outlook on life, a healthy respect for authority, a strong sense of self, a disease-free body…a healthy body weight. Despite our best intentions, a recent report suggests that for the first time in two centuries, the current generation of children may have a shorter life… Read More →
Why Kids Shouldn't Be Guzzling 'Energy' Drinks
Anxiety, hypertension, elevated heart rates, interrupted sleep patterns and headaches are just some of the side effects commonly associated with energy drinks, and those problems are more pronounced in children, according to a recent University of Miami study. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. These drinks have also been linked to heart palpitations,… Read More →
Heat Increases Danger for Seniors Taking Prescriptions
A potentially deadly danger lurks in the medicine cabinets of local seniors this summer. Did you know that heat, when combined with certain medications, can seriously harm seniors? That's why SYNERGY HomeCare, one of the nation's largest non-medical in-home care franchises, with local offices in our area, recommends that families pay special attention to seniors… Read More →
Hormonal Happy Hours come to Valley
A Valley Internal Medicine doctor has a unique way of reaching out to women of all ages about their health. These quarterly free events are called Hormonal Happy Hours and they are educational, enlightening, approachable and fun. September is Menopause Awareness Month. Dr. Angela DeRosa, D.O., M.B.A., C. P. E. will answer your questions about… Read More →
Does that hurt? Tips to prevent exercise injuries
Can you relate to this scenario? After putting it off for too long, you commit to get fit—only to find yourself injured the minute you start working out. All of the sudden your fitness goals go back on the shelf and you are left to deal with the pain. Whether your injury occurs right off… Read More →
Expert offers tips on heat-related emergencies
Dr. Kevin Haselhorst, an emergency medicine physician at 's Arrowhead and West Valley hospitals, answered questions about how to prevent heat-related emergencies. Question: What can be done to prevent heat-related medical emergencies? Answer: The high temperatures we experience in Arizona make us vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, so it is important to know how we can… Read More →
How to Cope with Depression from Disease
Sometimes, not knowing the truth about something of immediate importance can create some of the most intense stress, says former chronic pain sufferer Janet Komanchuk. "The families of victims who've been missing for years or decades – identifying the body of their loved one, for example, can bring closure. For me, being diagnosed with fibromyalgia… Read More →
Fireworks safety tips from Abrazo Health
While fireworks are beautiful to watch, they are dangerous to play with, Abrazo Health medical professionals warn. If not handled properly, fireworks can cause severe injuries to eyes and skin. Even just watching a friend light fireworks can put you at risk. Play it safe, allowing for everyone to enjoy the holiday, said Kevin Haselhorst,… Read More →


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Buy house in Spain and get legal residency
By tovarichpeter Follow Sat, 24 Nov 2012, 9:01am 330 views 1 comment
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coriacci1 1 9:03am Sat 24 Nov 2012 Share Quote Permalink Like Dislike nah, too many drunken englismen crawling around.
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Larry Crawford, CIA Larry rejoined the Clemson University Office of Internal Auditing in 1998 as a Staff Auditor. Currently, Larry is a Senior Auditor. He has more than 20 years of audit experience, including Internal Auditing at Clemson from 1981 to 1985. Larry has held audit positions in public accounting and at the School District of Pickens County.
Larry received a Bachelor of Science in Financial Management and a Master of Career and Technology Education from Clemson University. He is a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and a member of the Certified Fraud Examiners Association.
Larry is active in his local church and enjoys spending time with his wife, Lynn, and three children, Aaron, Blake and Corie.
Open the original version of this page.
Usablenet Assistive is a UsableNet product. Usablenet Assistive Main Page.


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Larry Bowa
Larry Bowa Says Ryan Howard Is An American League Player Now
Phillies bench coach Larry Bowa admits Ryan Howard is an American League player now.
Larry Bowa: 'I'm Concerned About Our Offense'
Phillies bench coach Larry Bowa says that he's concerned about the team's offensive production.
Bowa: Phillies Are Practicing So Hard, They're Out Of Energy By Game Time
Spring Training is different for the Phillies this year. Not just because of the new faces like Larry Bowa, AJ Burnett, and Marlon Byrd, but because of what is expected of the players by manager Ryne Sandberg.
BLOG: This Week In Sports
The newspapers have carried a lot of baseball news lately which has been surprising, at least for me.
The Philly 40: Larry Bowa
Larry Bowa has filled just about every role possible with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Larry Bowa Returns To Phillies As Bench Coach
The Phillies have officially signed Larry Bowa to be the team's bench coach, and Pete Mackanin to be the team's third base coach, the team announced on Tuesday.
Terry Harmon, Longtime Phillies Infielder, Recalls Glory Days During S. Jersey Appearance
Terry Harmon was a popular member of the Philadelphia Phillies who served as a key utilityman for the squad from the lean years of the late '60s and early '70s to the division championships in 1976 and 1977.
Larry Bowa Weighs In On Phillies NLCS Woes
The Phillies misfortunes in their NLCS matchup with the Giants has fans wondering what's gone wrong, and one former Phillie believes that part of the problem is mental.


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Was the 2004 Election Stolen?
I live in Ohio and it's true... (1425 comments)
As a resident of Ohio and an active registered voter I can say that what this article suggests is more true than you would think. Just in my little city of about 25,000 people we had issues with Republicans "fixing the vote". Posting people outside of polling locations, harassing minorities, voting locations which previously had several machines being under staffed and not having as many machines as in the past. All of this stuff did happen, I was there, I witnessed it. It is pathetic to me that a man that lost the election in both 2000 and 2004 has persisted to be allowed to hold the presidency and screw up this country.


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Wycliffe (WYC) | New International Version (NIV) |
10 And when all the multitude cried (out), and would have oppressed them with stones, the glory of the Lord appeared upon the roof of the bond of peace, while all the sons of Israel saw. (But when all the multitude shouted, and would have killed them with stones, the glory of the Lord appeared over the Tabernacle of the Covenant, before all the Israelites.) | 10 But the whole assembly talked about stoning them. Then the glory of the LORD appeared at the Tent of Meeting to all the Israelites. |
Copyright © 2001 by Terence P. Noble. For personal use only. (Wycliffe Bible) | 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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Members & Testimonials
Why Join?
Contact Us
Northern California Association of Directors of Volunteer Services (NCADVS), established in 1957, is an organization of professional volunteer leaders from Northern California and Northern Nevada. These leaders are responsible for the administration of volunteer programs in their healthcare institutions.
NCADVS offers a forum for exchange of information and ideas, and provides a medium for the development of professional skills through educational meetings, conferences, workshops, and an interactive website. Programs and discussion topics are timely and address current issues in volunteer management.
The mission of NCADVS is to facilitate the development and advancement of effective Volunteer Services administration in health care facilities.
We encourage you to renew your membership for 2014. During this unique economic time that we are facing, it is more important than ever to maintain professional and personal support and development. NCADVS is a cost-effective way of providing the support that you need. If your hospital has budget limitations and you would still like to maintain your membership with NCADVS, we are more than happy to work with you.
In order to process your renewal effectively, make sure you include the renewal form with your check in the envelope. Please print your name on the check, and send to the Treasurer, Maryellen Hinderliter, at the address below:
Maryellen Hinderliter
Director, Volunteer Services
Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford
725 Welch Road, Palo Alto 94304
(650) 497-8549
Welcome to NCADVS
2014 Membership Renewal
Download Form
NCADVS Board 2015
Catherine Bildhauer, President
William Ball, Legislative Chair
Maryellen Brady, Treasurer
Sherry Luttrell, Webmaster/Communications
Colleen Powers, Recording Secretary
Michelle Morgan, Past President
Joan Cardellino, CAHHS Director of Volunteer Services
OPEN President-elect
OPEN Vice-President
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Overview of content related to 'document format'
This page provides an overview of 1 article related to 'document format'. Note that filters may be applied to display a sub-set of articles in this category (see FAQs on filtering for usage tips). Select this link to remove all filters.
A document file format is a text or binary file format for storing documents on a storage media, especially for use by computers. There currently exist a multitude of incompatible document file formats. A rough consensus has been established that XML is to be the basis for future document file formats. Examples of XML-based open standards are DocBook, XHTML, and, more recently, the ISO/IEC standards OpenDocument (ISO 26300:2006) and Office Open XML (ISO 29500:2008). (Excerpt from Wikipedia article: Document format)
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Title | Article summary | Date |
Paula Kingston outlines the ACORN project, which aims to develop a transferable model for the whole process of providing electronic access to short loan journal articles. |
November 1996, issue6, project update |


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ACREX performance |
ACREX has performance score of 0 on a scale of 0 to 100. The company shows Beta (market volatility) of 0.0 which signifies that the returns on MARKET and ACREX are completely uncorrelated. Although it is extremely important to respect ACREX VENTURES LTD historical returns, it is beter to be realistic about what you can do with the information about equity current trading patterns. The approach towards foreseeing future performance of any stock is to evaluate the business as a whole together with its past performance including all available fundamental and technical indicators. By examining ACREX VENTURES LTD technical indicators you can right now evaluate if the expected return of 0.0% will be sustainable into the future. ACREX VENTURES LTD at this time shows risk of 0.0%. Please confirm ACREX VENTURES LTD Treynor Ratio as well as the relationship between Downside Variance and Kurtosis to decide if ACREX VENTURES LTD will be following its price patterns.
Relative Risk vs. Return Landscape
If you would invest 1.00 in ACREX VENTURES LTD on December 31, 2014 and sell it today you would earn a total of 0.00 from holding ACREX VENTURES LTD or generate 0.0% return on investment over 30 days. ACREX VENTURES LTD is generating negative expected returns and assumes 0.0% volatility on return distribution over the 30 days horizon. Simply put, 0% of equities are less volatile than ACREX VENTURES LTD and 99% of equity instruments are likely to generate higher returns than the company over the next 30 trading days.
Daily Expected Return (%) |
Over the last 30 days ACREX VENTURES LTD has generated negative risk-adjusted returns adding no value to investors with long positions.
Based on monthly moving average ACREX is performing at about 0% of its full potential. If added to a well diversified portfolio the total return can be enhanced and market risk can be reduced. You can increase risk-adjusted return of ACREX by adding it to a well-diversified portfolio.


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Amalgam (dentistry)
In dentistry, amalgam is an alloy of mercury with various metals used for dental fillings. It commonly consists of mercury (50%), silver (~22-32% ), tin (~14%), copper (~8%), and other trace metals.[1][2] Dental amalgams were first documented in a Tang Dynasty medical text written by Su Kung in 659, and appeared in Germany in 1528.[3][4] In the 1800s, amalgam became the dental restorative material of choice due to its low cost, ease of application, strength, and durability.[citation needed]
Recently however, its popularity has diminished somewhat.[citation needed] Concern for aesthetics, environmental pollution, health, and the availability of improved, reliable, composite materials have all contributed. In particular, concerns about the toxicity of mercury have made its use increasingly controversial.
History of use[edit]
There are, according to Geir Bjørklund, indications that dental amalgam was used in the first part of the T'ang Dynasty in China (618-907 A.D.), and in Germany by Strockerus in about 1528.[3] Evidence of a dental amalgam first appears in the Tang Dynasty medical text Hsin Hsiu Pen Tsao written by Su Kung in 659, manufactured from tin and silver.[4] Historical records hint that the use of amalgams may date even earlier in the Tang Dynasty.[4] It was during the Ming Dynasty that the composition of an early dental amalgam was first published, and a text written by Liu Wen Taiin 1505 states that it consists of "100 shares of mercury, 45 shares of silver and 900 shares of tin."[4] Ever since its introduction in the Western World in the 1830s, amalgam has been the subject of recurrent controversies because of its mercury content. Early amalgam was made by mixing mercury with the filings of silver coins.[3]
In 1833 two natives of England, Edward Crawcour and his nephew Moses Crawcour (incorrectly referred to as "the Crawcour brothers"), brought amalgam to the United States, and in 1844 it was reported that fifty percent of all dental restorations placed in upstate New York consisted of amalgam.[5] However, at that point the use of dental amalgam was declared to be malpractice, and the American Society of Dental Surgeons (ASDS), the only US dental association at the time, forced all of its members to sign a pledge to abstain from using the mercury fillings.[6] This was the beginning of what is known as the first dental amalgam war.[7]
The dispute ended in 1856 with the disbanding of the old association. The American Dental Association (ADA) was founded in its place in 1859, which has since then strongly defended dental amalgam from allegations of being too risky from the health standpoint.[8]
The ratio of the mercury to the remaining metallic mixture in dental amalgam has not always been 50:50. It was as high as 66:33 in 1930. Relative ratios between the other metals used in dental amalgams has also been highly variable. Conventional (or gamma 2)-amalgams have 32% silver and 14% tin, and they are most susceptible to corrosion due to their low copper content. Non-gamma-2 dental amalgams have been developed that were, however, found to release higher levels of mercury vapor compared with traditional amalgams. Amalgam is the dental material that has the strongest tendency to create galvanic currents and high electric potentials as it ages.[citation needed] The rate of mercury release with the corrosion is accelerated when the amalgam filling is in contact with old restorations or coupled with gold artifacts present in the mouth.
In 2008, Sweden, Norway and Denmark deliberated a ban of mercury dental amalgam in favor of composite fillings.[9] Since 1 April 2008, dentists in Denmark are forbidden to use mercury in fillings, except for molar masticating surface fillings in permanent (adult) teeth. The Swedish amalgam ban is for both environmental and health issues, according to the Swedish authorities.[9][10]
Amalgam vs. polymer resins[edit]
Amalgam is "tolerant to a wide range of clinical placement conditions and moderately tolerant to the presence of moisture during placement".[11] In contrast, the techniques for composite resin placement are more sensitive to many factors and require "extreme care".[12]
Mercury has properties of a bacteriostatic agent whereas certain methacrylate polymers (for example TEGMA, triethylene glycol methacrylate) composing the matrix of resin composites "encourages the growth of microorganisms". In the Casa Pia study in Portugal (1986–1989), 1,748 posterior restorations were placed and 177 (10.1%) of them failed during the course of the study. Recurrent marginal decay was the main reason for failure in both amalgam and composite restorations, accounting for 66% (32/48) and 88% (113/129), respectively.[13] Polymerization shrinkage, the shrinkage that occurs during the composite curing process, has been implicated as the primary reason for postoperative marginal leakage.[14][15]
These are some of the reasons why amalgam has remained a superior restorative material over resin-base composites. The New England Children's Amalgam Trial (NECAT), a randomized controlled trial, yielded results "consistent with previous reports suggesting that the longevity of amalgam is higher than that of resin-based compomer in primary teeth[11][16] and composites in permanent teeth.[11][17] Compomers were seven times as likely to require replacement and composites were seven times as likely to require repair.[11]
There are circumstances in which composite serves better than amalgam. For example, when a more conservative preparation would be beneficial, composite is the recommended restorative material. These situations would include small occlusal restorations, in which amalgam would require the removal of more sound tooth structure,[18] as well as in "enamel sites beyond the height of contour."[19] For cosmetic purposes, composite is preferred when a restoration is required on an immediately visible portion of a tooth.
Dental amalgam toxicity[edit]
The greatest toxicity concern with dental amalgam is the potential for mercury poisoning when used as the dental material in a dental filling. Major health and professional organizations say that amalgam is safe.[20][21] However, critics argue that it has toxic effects that make it unsafe, both for the patient and perhaps even more so for the dental professional manipulating it during a restoration. [22] A study by the Life Sciences Research Office found that studies on mercury vapor and dental amalgam "provided insufficient information to enable definitive conclusions."[23] They identified several "research gaps", including: "well-controlled studies using standardized measures that evaluate whether low level [mercury vapor exposures] produce neurotoxic and/or neuropsychological effect", studies on "co-exposure to Hg0 and methylmercury", studies on "in utero exposure to Hg0", "occupational studies on [pregnant workers] with well-defined Hg0 exposure", studies on the absorption of Hg2+ by the "human neonatal gut from breast milk", studies on "whether dental professionals have increased incidences of kidney disease, emotional instability, erethrism, pulmonary dysfunction, or other characteristics of occupational Hg0 exposure", studies on whether there exist "potential gender differences" or "genetic basis for sensitivity to mercury exposure."[23] Some dentists recommend removing amalgam fillings for health and cosmetic reasons, however removal also involves exposure to mercury vapor released during the removal process.[24] Amalgams also contribute to mercury toxicity in the environment.[25]
Metallurgy of amalgam[edit]
To fabricate an amalgam filling, the dentist triturates a silver-base alloy by mixing roughly equal parts (by mass) of shavings of the alloy with liquid mercury in a mortar and pestle or other grinding device until the shavings are thoroughly wetted. The silver alloy is typically 40-70% Ag, 0-30% Sn, 2-40% Cu and 0-2% Zn. The dentist packs the plastic amalgamation, before it ages, into the cavity. The amalgam expands ~0.1% over 6–8 hours by the slow aging reaction, γ-Ag3Sn + Hg → Ag2Hg3 + Sn7Hg. Non-metallic composite fillings are typically 1-5 μm silicate glass particles bonded by a UV-cured methacrylate resin.[26][27][28]
See also[edit]
- ^ Materials in Dentistry: Principles and Applications - Jack L. Ferracane - Google Boeken. Books.google.com. Retrieved 2012-09-19.
- ^ Ferracane, Jack L. (2001). Materials in Dentistry: Principles and Applications. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. p. 3. ISBN 0-7817-2733-2.
- ^ a b c Bjørklund G (1989). "The history of dental amalgam (in Norwegian)". Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen 109 (34-36): 3582–3585. PMID 2694433.
- ^ a b c d Czarnetzki, A.; Ehrhardt S. (1990). "Re-dating the Chinese amalgam-filling of teeth in Europe". International Journal of Anthropology 5 (4): 325–332.
- ^ Westcott A. Report to the Onondongia Medical Society on metal paste (amalgam). Am J Dent Sci IV, 1st Ser, 1844:175-201.
- ^ American Society of Dental Surgeons. (1845). American Journal of Dental Science. Harvard University. p. 170.
- ^ Molin C (February 1992). "Amalgam--fact and fiction". Scand J Dent Res 100 (1): 66–73. doi:10.1111/j.1600-0722.1992.tb01811.x. PMID 1557606.
- ^ Bremner MDF. (1939). The Story of Dentistry from the Dawn of Civilization to the Present Dental Items of Interest Pub. Co. p 86-87
- ^ a b "Dental Mercury Use Banned in Norway, Sweden and Denmark Because Composites Are Adequate...". Reuters. 2008-01-03. Retrieved 2012-09-19.
- ^ "News". Dentistry.co.uk. Retrieved 2012-09-19.
- ^ a b c d Soncini JA, Maserejian NN. The longevity of amalgam versus compomer/composites restorations in posterior primary and permanent teeth. The Journal of the American Dental Association 2007;138:763-772.
- ^ Christensen, GJ. Longevity of posterior tooth dental restorations. The Journal of the American Dental Association 2005;136:201-203.
- ^ Bernardo M, Martin MD, Lerouz BG. Survival and reasons for failure of amalgam versus resin-based composites posterior restorations placed in a randomized clinical trial. The Journal of the American Dental Association 2007;138:775-783.
- ^ Burgess JO, Walker R, Davidson JM. Posterior resin-based composite: review of the literature. Pediatr Dent 2002;24(5):465-479.
- ^ Estefan D, Agosta C. Eliminating microleakage from the composite resin system. Gen Dent 2003;51)6):506-509.
- ^ Forss H, Widstrom E. The post-amalgam era: a selection of materials and their longevity in the primary and young permanent dentition. Others express concern regarding the Children's Amalgam Trial's elevated serum and urine mercury content in the children with the amalgams. Int J Paediatr Dent 2003;13(3):158-164.
- ^ Qvist V, Thylstrup A. Restorative treatment patterns and longevity of amalgam restorations in Denmark. Acta Odontol Scand 1986;44(6):343-349.
- ^ Fuks AB. The use of amalgam in pediatric patients. Pediatr Dent 2002;24(5):448-455.
- ^ Newman SM. Amalgam alternatives: what can compete? The Journal of the American Dental Association 1991;122(8):67-71.
- ^ http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/DentalProducts/DentalAmalgam/ucm171094.htm
- ^ http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/DentalProducts/DentalAmalgam/ucm171094.htm#5
- ^ Mutter, J; Naumann, J; Walach, H; Daschner, F (2005). "Amalgam: Eine Risikobewertung unter Berücksichtigung der neuen Literatur bis 2005" [Amalgam risk assessment with coverage of references up to 2005]. Gesundheitswesen (Bundesverband der Arzte des Offentlichen Gesundheitsdienstes (Germany)) (in German) 67 (3): 204–16. doi:10.1055/s-2005-857962. PMID 15789284.
- ^ a b "Review and Analysis of the Literature on the Health Effects of Dental Amalgams". Life Sciences Research Office. Retrieved 29 July 2009.
- ^ http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/DentalProducts/DentalAmalgam/ucm171094.htm#5
- ^ WHO. (2005).Mercury in Health Care
- ^ Handbook of Materials for Medical Devices, ASM International, 2003, p 195-7 and 213-4.
- ^ J.N. Anderson, Applied Dental Materials, 2nd Ed., Blackwell Sci. Pub. Ltd., 1961, p 285-305.
- ^ E.W. Skinner & R.W Phillips, The Science of Dental Materials, 5th Ed., W.B. Saunders Co., 1954, p 352-383.
External links[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Amalgam Fillings. |


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On Fri, 2013-05-03 at 19:51 +0200, Hartmut Noack wrote:
+ 1 for touch, sed, echo, but also for Gedit and similar editors. Vi and
especially Emacs are hard to use and learning how to use them for many
users isn't worse the effort. I wonder that even new Linux users praise
Vi and Emacs, since those editors might have advantages for some usage,
but for most editing done by e.g. musicians, they are only hard to use,
without any advantage.
Linux-audio-user mailing list
LINUX® is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds in the USA and other countries.
Linuxaudio.org logo copyright Thorsten Wilms © 2006.
Hosting provided by the Virginia Tech Department of Music and DISIS.


text:
New American Standard (NAS) | New International Version (NIV) |
10 with a view to an administration suitable to the fullness of the times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth. In Him | 10 to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment--to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ. |
11 also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will, | 11 In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, |
12 to the end that we who were the first to hope in Christ would be to the praise of His glory. | 12 in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. |
13 In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation -having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, | 13 And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, |
14 who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God's own possession, to the praise of His glory. | 14 who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession--to the praise of his glory. |
15 For this reason I too, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which exists among you and your love for all the saints, | 15 For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, |
16 do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers; | 16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. |
17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. | 17 I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. |
18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, | 18 I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, |
19 and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might | 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, |
20 which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, | 20 which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, |
New American Standard Bible Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, California. All rights reserved. (New American Standard Version - Holy Bible) | 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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Sylvia Browne
Sylvia Browne is known the world over for her psychic talent, her counseling ability, and her research into parapsychology. Sylvia first noticed her psychic ability when she was three years old and for many years shared her gift with family and friends. After moving to California in 1964, she continued assisting people privately. Then in 1974, Sylvia incorporated a foundation for psychic research, now known as "The Sylvia Browne Corporation." To further her goals, in 1986 she formed the Society of Novus Spiritus, which is based upon a Christian Gnostic theology. She also donates many hours to help find missing children, and assists police in solving crimes.
Past Shows:
Art Bell: Somewhere in Time
Art Bell: Somewhere in Time returned to 8/1/01 when Sylvia Browne discussed her psychic abilities. First hour guest, Dr. Steven Greer talked about the Disclosure Project, and the increasing number of military people coming forward with their claims of ET contact. ... More »
Host: Art Bell - Somewhere In TimePsychic Forecast
Acclaimed psychic Sylvia Browne appeared for the 2nd and 3rd hours of the show, sharing her forecast for 2006. Among her predictions: The weather will be even worse this year than 2005, with hurricanes in the Northeast, and floods in the Southeast, and more tornadoes than ever before. ... More »
Host: George NooryIntuitions & Phenomena
Acclaimed psychic Sylvia Browne returned to offer her intuitions and discuss a compendium of paranormal topics. Her immediate concern was over trucks which she said should be checked by extra security. She does not however see a nuclear attack coming to America. Sylvia also noted that the missing Natalee Holloway is in "deep water" and no longer alive. ... More »
Host: George Noory2005 and Beyond
Psychic Sylvia Browne returned to the show to share her predictions for 2005 and beyond. "I think we're going to see more and more of these," she said of the recent quake and tsunami in Indonesia. "We're going to have these terrible eruptions everywhere—we're in a polar tilt." She believes we only have about "80 more years left" before life as we know it ends on this planet. Then another planet such as Mercury or Venus, "swings into place" and the whole cycle of life starts anew there, she declared.Yet she also predicted that 2005 will be a better year than 2004. The economy will rebound a bit in the beginning of the year and then pick up more steam by mid-year. Unemployment will go down, and in the stock market, the medical technology field will do particularly well, she said. Weather-wise she forecast that Florida and North Carolina will be hit hard in 2005. Among her other comments & predictions: North Korea is of major concern and they should be watched closely.The la ... More »
Host: George NooryPsychic Forecast
A professional psychic for nearly 50 years, Sylvia Browne returned to the show to share her predictions for the next 100 years. Beyond that time she runs into a black wall. "I don't have writer's block, I have a psychic block," she chuckled. ... More »
Host: George NoorySpirituality & Psychic Intuition
"I think Osama is dead and we'll find out before Spring," said legendary psychic, Sylvia Browne, who returned to the program to share her intuitions and discuss her new book. In the next two years she sees the economy taking a nosedive, but after that it will "resurrect" itself, she said. She also expressed concern that tsunamis could hit the East Coast, affecting an area as far up as New York and Connecticut. ... More »
Host: George NooryThe Other Side
Psychic Sylvia Browne returned to C2C to offer predictions and share tales from "the other side." Among her forecasts are the death of Saddam Hussein by the end of this year, a Democratic president elected in 2004, and the possible eruption of the volcano at Yellowstone within the next 3-4 months. "I think the whole thing is gonna blow," she said.Differentiating her encounters with ghosts and spirits, Browne said that spirits have crossed over, while ghosts don't realize they've passed on and are caught between worlds, wondering why other people are occupying their spaces. ... More »
Host: George NooryPsychic Talks
"I think all of us came with a cell phone from God," said psychic Sylvia Browne, who chatted with George for the first time on Thursday night. Browne experienced her psychic gifts at an early age, when she first began hearing the voice of her spirit guide. A spirit guide is someone who was once incarnate, whereas an angel doesn't take human form, she explained. ... More »
Host: George NoorySylvia Browne
Sylvia Browne, world renowned for her psychic talent, shares her predictions for 2003 and beyond. First Hour: Linda Moulton Howe presents a report about the Urandir Oliveira/Brazilian alien abduction case. ... More »
Host: Art BellSylvia Browne / Craig O'Thompson
An expert on the subject of terrorism and NBCW (Nuclear, Biologicaland Chemical Warfare), and a member of the InternationalAssociation of Counterterrorism and Security Professionals, authorCraig O. Thompson researched terrorism for over a decade. ... More »
Host: Art Bell