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Archive for Saturday, December 1, 2012
BLHS boys' junior guards shine in 80-52 season-opening win against Bishop Ward
December 1, 2012
The Bobcats' quest in defending their Class 4A state title seemed like an easy one in an 80-52 victory against Bishop Ward.
Juniors Chase Younger, Tim Sanders and Zach McNabb led the way with 19, 15 and 10 points, respectively.
BLHS coach Mike McBride was very pleased with their performance.
"We knew we had four good junior guards," McBride said. "They understand the game so well. They rebound, they know where they're at on the floor. We have a long way to go, but J.P. (Downing) can fill it up too."
He said his team played well for 16 to 18 minutes, but for the rest of the night they had lulls.
He also doesn't think his team is prepared for Tuesday's matchup with Shawnee Mission South.
"We're going to go figure out what we need to do for the next 18 games after that," McBride said.
He did say his team defended well for it being the first game of the year and wanted to give the Cyclones credit because they do have a talented group of players.
"They hurt us when they were open," McBride said. "Every time we made a mistake, it seemed like they capitalized."
More like this story
- 'Everybody's gunning for us': BLHS title defense begins without Johnson
- Bobcats boys basketball team seeks return to full strength, victory against Bishop Ward
- Can't miss 'em: BLHS boys down Piper in 68-63 thriller
- Younger, McNabb lead clutch BLHS 72-65 win against Piper
- BLHS boys gunning for return to state
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Tue, Apr 26, 11 at 19:08
I'm wondering if anyone knows of a reason why you can't wire the Intelliflo VS 3050 to the pump relay rather than wiring it directly and using the com port. |
Follow-Up Postings:
1) The pump is designed to have power 24/7/ 2)The relay has no way of telling the pump what speed you want. Scott |
I see says the blind man!! Thanks poolguy, Devils country or Flyers country?? |
Rangers are my 1st team for hockey, then the Devils. I grew up with the Rangers before the Devils came. Not a Flyers fan at all. Scott |
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
noun \ˈtär-pən\ plural tarpon or tarpons
Definition of TARPON
: a large silvery elongate bony fish (Megalops atlanticus of the family Elopidae) that occurs especially in the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, and warm coastal waters of the Atlantic, reaches a length of about six feet (two meters), and is often caught for sport
Origin of TARPON
origin unknown
First Known Use: 1685
Rhymes with TARPON
noun (Concise Encyclopedia)Any of certain marine fish (family Megalopidae) having an elongated last dorsal fin ray and a bony throat plate between the sides of the protruding lower jaw. The scales are large, thick, and silvery. The Atlantic tarpon (Tarpon atlanticus or Megalops atlanticus) is found inshore in warm parts of the Atlantic Ocean, on the Pacific Ocean side of Central America, and sometimes in rivers. It habitually breaks the water's surface and gulps air. It grows to 6 ft (1.8 m) and 100 lb (45 kg) or larger and is a favourite game fish. The Pacific tarpon (M. cyprinoides) is similar.
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Receiver RF and Wireless Chips Datasheets
RF Receivers -- 1127-1812-ND [HMC6001LP711E from Hittite Microwave Corporation]
from Digi-Key Corporation
from Digi-Key Corporation
IC MILLIMETERWAVE RECEIVER 60QFN [See More]
- Device Type: Receiver
- Package Type: 60-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Operating Temperature: -40 to 85
- Pins: 60
RF Receiver -- rfRXD0420
from Microchip Technology, Inc.
from Microchip Technology, Inc.
The rfRXD0420/0920 are low cost, compact single frequency short-range radio receivers requiring only a minimum number of external components for a complete receiver system. The rfRXD0420 covers the receive frequency range of 300 MHz to 450 MHz and the rfRXD0920 covers 800 MHz to 930 MHz. The... [See More]
- Device Type: Receiver
- Interface: Bi-CMOS
- Technology: ZigBee
- Supply Voltage: 2.7V; 2.5V; 3V; 3.3V; 3.6V; 5V; Other; 2.5-5.5 V
Dual-Band Receiver for CDMA and PCS Femtocell Applications -- SKY74100-21
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
from Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
The SKY74100-21 receiver is a highly integrated device for dualband Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) femtocells. The SKY74100-21 supports femtocells in the cellular CDMA and Personal Communications System (PCS) modes. The device requires a minimum number of external components to complete a CDMA... [See More]
- Device Type: Receiver
- Package Type: LGA
- Technology: CDMA


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Scranton Office: (570) 961-5300
Olyphant Office: (570) 489-2492
Loan Office: (570) 961-1100
When you open an account at NET Federal Credit Union, you own a share in the credit union. To become a member of NET FCU, simply open a share savings account with $1.00 one-time membership fee and $5.00 to keep the account open. This $5.00 deposit entitles you to all of our products and services available.
When you become a member of the credit union, your family members are also eligible for membership.
Click here to see a list of our member groups. If the company that you work for is on this list or if you have a family member who is a current NET FCU member, then you can join the credit union, too!
Don't see your company name on the list? There is no cost and no obligations! Your company can contact Erin Kynett at 570-489-2492 or email@example.com with any questions.
You will need valid ID, such as a driver's license or state issued ID with your current address in order to open your account.


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Lc-Wide - Xpro Winter Ice Storm
We had a crazy ice storm blow through. It wiped out the power in our area for about a week. The ice snapped trees and limbs and took out power lines left and right. It was crazy...and beautiful.
This photo was shot on film. Taken by tracyvmoore with a Lomo LC-Wide (available in our Online Shop) loaded with Kodak Elitechrome 400 film in Issaquah, WA, United States. These tags describe this photo: winter, cold, xpro, trees, and nature. Date: 2012-01-10. Time: Afternoon. This photo can also be found in the album Lc-Wide - Winter Ice Storm.Please login to get more out of this site
You are currently not logged in, do so now to add comments, like articles as well as photos, submit to competitions, translate articles and gain access to unlimited photo upload! If you are not registered yet, go here to find out more about Lomography and join now! If you just want a limited account for now you can use Twitter or Facebook. We would love to have you as a member here!
15 people like this photo
Liking photos helps us to present the best ones to you and others. 15 people like this photo. 15 people like this photo: untitled812, endorphin, clickiemcpete, mingkie, grazie, meryl, fascinatingirl, robter, elvis, k_melancholy, lilithmoon, andrejrusskovskij, ohpleasedontgo, kimo, and deepfried_goodness.


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Young's Literal Translation (YLT) | New International Version (NIV) |
16 And the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mount where Jesus appointed them, | 16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. |
Young's Literal Translation is in the public domain. (Young's Literal Translation - The Bible Online) | Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. (New International Version Bible Online) |


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Get the Best Priced Volvo 242 Air Mass Sensor
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Volvo 242 Replacement Air Mass Sensor Information
Search our online air mass sensor catalog and find the lowest priced discount auto parts on the web. We sell wholesale to the public. We offer high quality new, OEM, aftermarket and remanufactured Volvo 242 Air Mass Sensor parts. We specialize in a wide-variety of high-quality car parts and accessories for your car, truck or SUV. Call toll free to order or place your order online via our secure checkout system. Our online parts catalog uses real-time inventory, so you can be assured the parts you buy are in stock at the time of ordering. Most orders are shipped the same day. They are available for the following Volvo 242 years: 1984, 1983, 1982, 1981, 1980, 1979, 84, 83, 82, 81, 80, 79. This part is also sometimes called Volvo 242 Air Flow Meters. We stock air mass sensor parts for most Volvo models including S70, V70, 850, S40, XC90, S80, S60, 240, 960, 940, 244, XC70, 245, C70, 740, S90, V40, 760, V50, V90, C30, 780, XC60, 264 and 745.
We stock these Air Mass Sensor brands for the Volvo 242: A1 Cardone.
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84 1984 Volvo 242 Breather Hose 2.1L 4 Cyl MacKay
Speedy, accurate delivery of OEM looking distributor Thanks! Pricing is most acceptable, for the apparent quality. I've not installed said parts yet (included ordered replacement seal set), b...
Right Parts. Right Price. Ground Delivery only took one day to MD. Part of my order was unavailable, but they informed me immediately after placing the order (by email). I'm more than sat...


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Bruce K. Rubin, MEngr, MD, MBA, FRCPC
Jessie Ball duPont Distinguished
Professor and Chair
Department of Pediatrics
Physician-in-Chief, CHoR
Cystic Fibrosis Center
Pulmonary Medicine
Nelson Clinic, 1st floor
Appointments: (804) 828-CHOR (2467)
Fax: Clinic: (804) 828-2983 Office: (804) 828-2062
E-mail: email@example.com
Board Certifications
Medical School
Tulane University School of Medicine
Tulane University and The Hospital for Sick Children, Canada
The Hospital for Sick Children
BS: Tulane University (math and physics)
MS: Tulane University (biomedical engineering)
MBA: Wake Forest University, Babcock School of Business
Rhodes Scholar, Oxford University, England
Areas of Interest
Mucus clearance disorders
The technology dependent child
Aerosol therapy
Cystic fibrosis
Severe asthma
Chronic cough
Plastic bronchitis
Research Interests
View Rubin Lab website.
Airway inflammation. We study relationships among inflammatory cells and mediators, infection, mucus secretion, and quality of life; and the mechanisms causing squamous metaplasia and goblet cell hyperplasia. We develop and test new therapies from cell and tissue culture, to animal studies, to clinical trials.
Secretory hyperesponsiveness. Excessive mucus secretion is characteristic of diseases like asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, middle lobe syndrome and plastic bronchitis. We study the mechanisms of secretory hyperesponsiveness, characterize the biophysical and transport properties of mucus, and evaluate new therapies with collaborators from around the world. We maintain the International Registry for Plastic Bronchitis.
Nasal and sinus disease. We have studied the physical and transport properties of mucus and sputum for three decades. We have formed a sino-nasal research group with investigators from the Rubin lab and the departments of Ear, Nose and Throat, Allergy, Radiology, Nursing, Emergency Medicine and the School of Engineering to develop new ways to measure the impact of sinus disease and test new therapies including novel aerosol delivery systems.
Dr. Rubin was named chair of the Department of Pediatrics in 2009 and holds a professorship in the VCU School of Engineering. Dr. Rubin came to VCU after 12 years at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, N.C., where he was professor and vice chair for research in the pediatrics department, professor of physiology and pharmacology and professor of biomedical engineering with the Virginia Tech-Wake Forest University School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences.
Dr. Rubin is a pediatric pulmonary expert and was the recipient of a number of honors, including the 2008 Forrest M. Bird Lifetime Scientific Achievement Award, a top research honor given by the American Respiratory Care Foundation and the American Association of Respiratory Care. He is on the editorial board of 12 pulmonary journals, has published more than 200 research papers and chapters and holds five patents. He is listed in Who?s Who in Science and Engineering and Best Doctors in America.
Dr. Rubin?s specific clinical and research interests include cystic fibrosis, childhood asthma and other chronic lung diseases. Dr. Rubin and his research team study aerosol therapy for lung diseases, airway inflammation and excessive mucus that contributes to lung disease.
Prior to joining the Wake Forest University faculty, Dr. Rubin was a professor and clinician at St. Louis University School of Medicine; at the University of Alberta, Canada, department of pediatrics; and at Queen?s University at Kingston, Ontario?s department of pediatrics.
Dr. Rubin received his undergraduate Bachelor of Science in math and physics, Master of Engineering and medical degrees from Tulane University in New Orleans. He was a Rhodes Scholar, conducting postdoctoral work in biomedical engineering at Oxford University. He also earned an MBA at Wake Forest University.
In addition, Dr. Rubin is an enthusiastic magician, with membership in the International Brotherhood of Magicians. Rubin said that, as he has done in the past, he intends to teach magic to medical school interns and residents.
Research Projects
The goblet cell as an immune effector cell in the airway
Aerosol dapsone for therapy of inflammatory airway diseases
CF nasal microbiome and effect of antibiotics delivered as nasal aerosols
Difference in inflammatory and immune response comparing nasal and bronchial epithelia in culture
Longitudinal changes in CF sputum properties, inflammation, and pulmonary function
Airway squamous metaplasia and transforming growth factor beta
Airway disease in persons with ichthyosis and potential therapies
The International plastic bronchitis registry to investigate the natural history and potential therapies for plastic bronchitis
Anticholinergic medications as potential airway immunomodulators
Aerosol therapy and the patient-device interface
Effect of nocturnal nasal humidification and flow on recovery from an exacerbation of CF airway disease
Airway Tissue Factor expression in inflammatory airway diseases
Periostin, interleukin 13, and severe asthma
Recent Publications
Rubin BK, Priftis KN, Schmidt HJ, Henke MO. Secretory hyperresponsiveness and pulmonary mucus hypersecretion. Chest 2014;146:496-507.
Rubin BK, Williams RW. Emerging aerosol drug delivery strategies: From bench to clinic. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2014 doi: 10.1016/j.addr.2014.06.008.
Strickland SL, Rubin BK, Drescher GS, Haas CF, O'Malley CA, Volsko TA, et al. AARC clinical practice guideline: effectiveness of nonpharmacologic airway clearance therapies in hospitalized patients. Respir Care 2013;58:2187-93.
Tanabe T, Kanoh S, Moskowitz WB, Rubin BK. Cardiac asthma: transforming growth factor-beta from the failing heart leads to squamous metaplasia in human airway cells and in the murine lung. Chest 2012;142:1274-83.
Tanabe T, Rozycki HJ, Kanoh S, Rubin BK. Cardiac asthma: new insights into an old disease. Expert Rev Respir Med 2012;6:705-14.
Tanabe T, Shimokawaji T, Kanoh S, Rubin BK. IL-33 stimulates CXCL8/IL-8 secretion in goblet cells but not normally differentiated airway cells. Clin Exp Allergy 2014;44:540-52.
Teves ME, Zhang Z, Costanzo RM, Henderson SC, Corwin FD, Zweit J, Sundaresan G, Subler M, Salloum FN, Rubin BK, Strauss JF 3rd. Sperm-associated antigen-17 gene is essential for motile cilia function and neonatal survival. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2013;48:765-72.
Tokita E, Tanabe T, Asano K, Suzaki H, Rubin BK. Club cell 10-kDa protein attenuates airway mucus hypersecretion and inflammation. Eur Respir J 2014 pii: erj00809-2013.
Nicola ML, Carvalho HB, Yoshida CT, Anjos FM, Nakao M, Santos Ude P, Cardozo KH, Carvalho VM, Pinto E, Farsky SH, Saldiva PH, Rubin BK, Nakagawa NK. Young "healthy" smokers have functional and inflammatory changes in the nasal and the lower airways. Chest. 2014;145:998-1005.
McNamara DG, Asher MI, Rubin BK, Stewart A, Byrnes CA. Heated humidification improves clinical outcomes, compared to a heat and moisture exchanger in children with tracheostomies. Respir Care. 2014;59:46-53.
Dodson KM, Cohen RS, Rubin BK . Middle ear fluid characteristics in pediatric otitis media with effusion. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 2012;76:1806-09.


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Is it easy to get tickets to go and watch a rugby union match? When does the season run and where are the best places to watch live matches?
Rugby union is the national sport of Wales, and Wales is certainly not short of rugby clubs. According to the International Rugby Board, Wales has 314 clubs and 79,800 registered and unregistered players, including 10,800 female players.
The four main clubs in Wales, known as 'regions', are all based in south Wales:
Blues (Cardiff)
Dragons (Newport)
Ospreys (Swansea)
Scarlets (Llanelli)
These clubs play in the Rabo Direct PRO12 league, which comprises clubs from Wales, Ireland, Scotland and Italy. It kicks off this year on 31 August and ends with the play-off final on 25 May 2013. It is usually easy to get hold of tickets through the clubs' websites, and you can often buy tickets at the stadiums on the night.
The Wales national team plays its home games at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, which has a capacity of around 74,500. Tickets can be bought through the Welsh Rugby Union website but tickets for matches against the most popular sides, such as New Zealand, sell out quickly. Here are the home fixtures for the 2012-2013 season:
Wales vs Argentina (10 November 2012)
Wales vs Samoa (16 November 2012)
Wales vs New Zealand (24 November 2012)
Wales vs Australia (1 December 2012)
Wales vs Ireland (2 February 2013)
Wales vs England (16 March 2013)
If you can't get hold of a ticket and want to sample the match day atmosphere, why not join the thousands of ticket-less Welsh fans who stream into the pubs near the stadium to watch the matches on a big screen and join in the singing?
Did Dylan Thomas base the fictional village of Llareggub in Under Milk Wood on a real village in Wales, and if so where is it?
Dylan Thomas completed his radio play Under Milk Wood in 1953. It is said that the play evolved from pieces of writing that he wrote as far back as when he was 17 years old. The name 'Llareggub' was also used in the early stories The Orchards, The Holy Six and The Burning Baby, and it's therefore unlikely that the village was based on a real village.
However, during the writing of the play Dylan Thomas spent a lot of time in the west Wales seaside town of New Quay (Cei Newydd in Welsh), and had lived intermittently in the south west Wales town of Laugharne (Talacharn in Welsh). Both of these places could be said to have influenced his writing of the play.
New Quay is a small seaside town in the county of Ceredigion, west Wales. With a harbour and sandy beaches, it is a popular seaside resort and traditional fishing town. The people of New Quay are very proud of this literary connection to Dylan Thomas, and actively promote it through the Dylan Thomas Trail, which takes in places that inspired or were connected to the poet.
A short drive north-west of Swansea is the seaside town of Laugharne which was the poet's home for the last years of his life. The Dylan Thomas Boathouse is the house museum where Dylan, wife Caitlin and his children lived in the four years before Dylan's death. The simple, cozy rooms and the adjacent writer's shed are preserved as they were in Dylan's day. Dylan and Caitlin had lived in Laugharne in several locations. Dylan had come to the town "one day, for the day and never left; got off the bus and forgot to get on again." Today, one of the poet's homes in town, Seaview, has been restored to its original state and re-opened as a five-star restaurant with rooms so that travelers enraptured by Laugharne can do the same thing and stay for a night or two, or more.
For more information on Dylan Thomas, visit the Visit Wales website.


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Height: | 6-0 |
Weight: | 190 |
Year: | Jr. |
Hometown: | Compton, Ca. |
High School: | Dominguez HS |
Previous College: | University of Hawaii |
Position: | RB |
2012 (Freshman): Appeared in 11 games making four starts at running back…led the team with 691 yards rushing on 137 carries…averaged 5.0 yards per rush and scored three touchdowns…also had four receptions for eight yards…career-high 99 yards rushing on 13 carries against New Mexico (Oct. 13)…rushed for 92 yards on 16 carries and scored first career touchdown against Nevada (Sept. 22)… carried 22 times against San Diego State (Oct. 6), the most by a UH running back since 2000…also had 20 rushes for 68 yards at BYU (Sept. 28)…recorded five kickoff returns for 46 yards…selected to College Football Performance Award's National Freshman Performer of the Year Watch List.
2011: Redshirted.
Prep: A 2011 graduate of Dominguez High School in Compton, Calif...rated as the 46th-best running back in the country…also ranked 84th-best prospect in the state of California…rated as a top-10 running back in the West Region by ESPN.com...as a senior, rushed for more than 700 yards and 12 touchdowns in seven games…missed the team's first five games due to injury…despite injury, still selected as the San Gabriel Valley Offensive MVP...selected to the all-CIF Southern Section Western Division first team and all-area as a junior and senior…in 2009, led Dominguez to the second round of the CIF-SS playoffs and rushed for 1,657 yards and 23 TDs on 215 carries...also a four-year letterwinner in track...competed in the 300-meter hurdles.
Personal: Born in Los Angeles, Calif....major is undecided...related to former Warrior defensive back and long-time coach George Lumpkin...has two brothers and one sister...parents are Will Gregory and Rhonda Knox of Compton, Calif.


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The second installment of the US mergers and acquisitions took place from 1916 to 1929. One of the distinguishing features of this period was the sharp rise in the price of the shares. In this period the vertical mergers gained priority over the horizontal mergers due to the laws and statutes in place. This trend was stopped by the stock market crisis of 1929.
During the five year phase from 1965 to 1969 the conglomerates were the order of the day as far as the US mergers and acquisitions were concerned. This trend was prompted by the antitrust laws that were in operation at that point of time. In 1969 the trend came to a halt as a result of the changes in the antitrust laws.
In the years between 1981 and 1989 various types of US mergers and acquisitions found more acceptance. The causes that brought about this situation were decrease in the rates of interest and increase in the prices of the shares. As a result of the legal conditions, the leveraged buyouts gained in popularity. This period is also marked by hostile takeovers, greenmailing and corporate raid.
In the years between 1992 to 2001 the US mergers and acquisitions came back in action after the US recovered from the economic recession of the early 90s. The major business houses started taking over companies and paid for these acquisitions with their equity.
From 2003 the number of companies merging with others or acquiring other companies has increased. These companies are adopting such business strategies in order to be better equipped to adapt with the intense competition throughout the global market.
Sub-Surface Waste Management of Delaware Inc., which is primarily held by US Microbics Inc has acquired Restic Properties. Platina Energy Group has taken over Enhanced Oil Recovery Inc from UTEK Corp. Parker Hannifin Corp has taken over all the remaining shares of HTR Holding Corp.
Frontera Investment Inc has taken over CW Check Cashing. Carlisle Cos Inc has acquired Carlyle Inc. The deal was worth $200 million. It was subjected to regulatory approval. Key Energy Services has taken over Western Drilling Inc. The deal was worth almost $5 million and the entire amount was paid in cash.
Aurcana Corp has taken over the Shafter Silver Mine in Texas. It was bought from Silver Standard Resources Inc and the deal was worth $42.465 million. From this amount $23 million was to be paid in cash, $9.465 million was to be paid by issuing 15 million common shares and the rest was to be paid through convertible debentures.


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AHMEDABAD: Parents and students of the secondary section and higher secondary sections across the city are upset with the change in school timings as instructed by the commissioner of Schools. The timings have been changed to 11am to 5 pm.
Most of the parents feel that it is not a feasible option in a state with tropical climate with nearly nine months of summer. It has also been called big challenge by working parents who will have to pick their wards at odd hours.
Roopal Shah, a parent says, "I am concerned because my daughter will then be out in scorching heat the whole day. Besides late school will mean getting up late and whole schedule will go topsy turvy."
Another parent, Anjali Deshpande feels that it will be difficult to manage coaching and school with new timings. She says, "Students will keep on running between schools, coaching and home, which will only add on to their stress. I think the government should not make an attempt to disturb children."
Even the students are quiet perturbed with the suggested change of timing. Batul Merchant, class XI student at St Xavier's Mirzapur, says, "Attention would be zero when one will have to sit in scorching heat and attend classes. I feel lot many factors should be considered before this change of timing is implemented." Adds Niharika Deshpande, class XI student at Sakar English School, "I agree that government's intention behind this initiative is noble but with these timings we will not find time for self study and it will be very difficult to cope with studies. This will only add on to our stress for sure as I have studied at a school with such odd timings."
Stay updated on the go with Times of India News App. Click here to download it for your device.
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An all-new first-party Natal project has been outed by a US movie director. But don't get too excited, hardcore 360 fans - this sits very much in 'casual' territory.
River Rush was detailed on the blog of US movie exec James Gunn, who recounted his experiences at a Microsoft showcase.
In addition to the already-seen Ricochet, Gunn played River Rush alongside a friend from MS, called Dave. Dave sounds like fun.
Here's how Gunn described it:
It's a game where you stand side by side in a river raft, so it's two people playing at once. To move right, you have to step right; to move left, you have to step left. As you rush down right rapids, you have to jump up and slap floating stars in the air - the whole raft jumps up every time you do.
This game was even more exhilarating than the kicking one, and even more aerobically challenging. In fact, I'd say the ONLY drawback to the Natal some people may have is that you have to get up off your ass to play it. But, for me, a person who likes exercise and gaming, it's sort of a dream come true. An hour of playing Natal every night will definitely burn calories.
Dave's avatar was a girl during River Rush, probably because Dave feels like a little princess inside, and I suddenly realized how awesome it would be for my avatar to molest Dave's. As my avatar rubbed its crotch against Dave's avatar's ass the Microsoft folks started laughing and said that was the first time they had seen anyone do that. I was extremely proud of myself. I'm sure millions of little assholes will follow in the wake of my avatar-raping, but I want it to be noted in my Wikipedia page that I was the very first.
Warming him to the hearts of core gamers everywhere, Gunn added:
Whether I'm historically acknowledged or not, the Natal was an amazing piece of technology and I'll be the first one in line to buy one when they come out during the holidays. Bayman told me there were boxing and football and other Natal games coming out, but I really, really can't wait to shoot someone on that fucking thing.
Amen, sir. Amen.


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Campus Activities Board
The Campus Activities Board (CAB) is responsible for programming a wide variety of social and educational events. CAB's goal is to provide fun-filled, free activities for the enjoyment of TAMUK students. We entertain our campus with music, physical challenges, and educational lectures. As if that is not enough, we are also in charge of Fall Carnival, Spring Fling and play a huge role in all the Homecoming activities. For more information on any event, program, or to join CAB, contact us via email at firstname.lastname@example.com or visit the CAB office located in MSUB room 301.
Events for Fall 2014
Human V. Zombies Game- November 3-7
Wednesday, 12th- Step Afrika; 7pm (Collaboration with PPVAS/Lectureship)
Monday 17th- Wednesday 19th- Toy Swap
Thursday, 20th- Battle of the Artist; 7pm
Monday, December 1st- Wednesday, December 3rd- Toy Swap
Check the TAMUK CAB page on Facebook for updates and event information. Click here to go to our Facebook page!
This page was last updated on: November 06, 2014


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Holman Christian Standard (CSB) | New International Version (NIV) |
5 All this will happen because of Jacob's rebellion and the sins of the house of Israel. What is the rebellion of Jacob? Isn't it Samaria? And what is the high place of Judah? Isn't it Jerusalem? | 5 All this is because of Jacob's transgression, because of the sins of the house of Israel. What is Jacob's transgression? Is it not Samaria? What is Judah's high place? Is it not Jerusalem? |
Holman Christian Standard Bible ® Copyright © 2003, 2002, 2000, 1999 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. (Holman Christian Standard Bible Online) | Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. (New International Version Bible Online) |


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Google I/O wraps up today, and now it's opportune to highlight the coincidences of trends and announcements that Google is trumpeting in their Google gloryfest. My approach is to examine each of the highlights from their 3-hour keynote (!) and point out, from a business and web user perspective, what's missing. Google has had their I/O… now, I get my Google I/O/U.
With assets such as annual revenues larger than that of all states except New York and California and Google Chrome's 750M active users, Google is becoming the steward of your future. ("Good morning to the Senator from the great state of Google!")
Google leverages their wealth of data and huge ad revenues to provide web users worldwide with free services. Americans are quite familiar with this revenue model. News comes in a free form, but you will be force-fed ads to earn the right to consume it.
In an effort to keep a clean balance sheet, it's time to consider, "What does Google owe me?" and "What do I owe Google"?
Unification of Google Services
Microsoft Office Suite. Adobe Creative Suite. User Experience has vaulted thanks to some of the most-visible integrations of programs and cloud support. Uniting apps and functionality common to a vertical is old news. (We won't even go into the controversy of 'subscription-based software' in the cloud). But it's easy to see the wisdom behind merging Google+ and other Google services. User interfaces have undergone cosmetic changes that make them much more consistent across services. The integrations must go well beyond superficial, and that behind-the-scenes sharing of data has begun. Sharing of data within Google is well within their Terms of Service, so there is no protest. But has their integration efforts gone far enough? Most think not, if you read the forums and comments.
Google I/O/U: More effective options to combine accounts for improved cross-functionality and User Experience. Merge Google+ Local (formerly Places), Gmail, YouTube, etc. Put users in control of how the merging works.
Google I/O/U: While I am at it, let me state that Google services require better interfaces. Across the board. Most users I consult with on a daily basis have the same disregard (and sometimes, disrespect) for Google User Interfaces and User Experience. They suck. The level of simplicity and cosmetic appearance has improved, but have they become more intuitive? Many think not.
Big Data is a Big Deal
Google has earned their seat at the Big data table (Hadoop, anyone?), as advertisers push the edge of peta-scale data accumulation and synthesis. Some appreciate the targeted advertising that results. Some are horrified by the creepiness of so much 'personal' data being shared and sold and acted on.
The lack of debate about whether this is creepy or cool, the technology industry has been ranked the world's most-trusted for the seventh consecutive year, according to the 2013 Edelman Trust Barometer.
At the same time, Android developer Dan Nolan of Australia found that Google provides programmer access to personal identity of app buyers, reviewers and trials.
Google I/O/U: There is nothing more valuable than User Trust. Earn it. Don't burn it.
Google+ has a lovely, new layout on the desktop that has been described as being more like Pinterest. More columns. Wow. More data visible at once on the screens of a dying race of desktop machines. Zzz.
Google I/O/U: Mobile experience of Google+ on iOS is only fair at best. It needs better profile edibility, for one thing. Make it so.
Cards are a visual nicety, that 'flip' over to reveal more data on the reverse (shades of MacOS 'Widgets'). This plays on a visual metaphor that is familiar to consumers, and provides a framework for greater use of that convention. Cards come in six 'flavors' and mix your habits, searches, commuting routes and more into an ever-tightening web of useful information.
Google I/O/U: Droid Voice Search and Cards have invaded iOS. How long before advertisers have the option to use the reverse of these cross-platform cards to flip to reveal Ads? Better still, ads that use all of the Circles, Search and other data to be tightly targeted, at massive scale?
Related Hashtags emerged from Google I/O as Pinterest, Facebook, Tumblr and other Social Networks ride Twitter's coattails to parlay content keywords into an ecosystem that enables better-informed Search, brand messaging and tracking of trends. google's version will likely leverage their hoary old content analysis algorithm to discern keywords, and then their AI backend of search queries and subsequent search queries and personal preferences to add Related Keywords in the form of #hashtags. Excellent integration of a maturing user convention is on the horizon. Whether this becomes reflexive or intrusive depends on implementation, thus, it's a crapshoot, but worth the gamble.
Google I/O/U: Bottle that Related Hashtag ability. Make it a form of metadata (similar to Facebook's pervasive OGP) to reside in the Social Media, or, as an App that can be added. Open Graph Protocol affords Facebook an eye into one's off-network web activities, provides authentication services, and records Likes and other forms of interaction. Could Google drive in the harpoon to leverage a similar inside job on Facebook and other Social Media? If so, Google's own ability to provide incisive hashtagging could also feed those instances into search for general consumption. The mind reels at the possibilities. Better perception of social mentions for Google. Better and more immediate social monitoring for users, right there in their Search. For free, the Google way.
Auto-Enhance. OK, welcome to the club. Auto-Awesome. Better. Auto-Animations. All bets are off. The claim is that image processing and AI can store and examine all of your photos (those that you don't hide from Google) and integrate portions to arrive at a better result (described as gathering all smiling faces from a series of group portraits to amalgamate one image where every subject is smiling. Other features include Collages (which any graphic software can do), Animations (AniMoto and other web services have done this for years), Panoramas (heck, my daughter's Fuji digicam does that during shooting), Collections (from masses of uploaded photos). The good news and the bad news are simply two sides of the same coin. Yes, it's automated. And, yes, it happens without you.
Google I/O/U: Control, Privacy — ask first. Give users an editing environment so they can have the fun. They will endorse the result better when they have put their fingerprint on it. Sharing will likely increase as a result. Oh, and please retrain all of those artists and photographers.
Google Talk Voice Search
Better than Siri? This could be the case, as Google sells the public back Google's accumulated knowledge of themselves (G+, Google Search, Gmail, etc.).
Google I/O/U: Conversing with a personal digital assistant (RIP, Steve Jobs) is fun and all. Give me the rest of the robot.
Music to My Ears
All Access, Google's newly-announced $9.99 monthly streaming music service provides interest-based 'radio station' playlist suggestions (patent issues, anyone?). It also enables local 'storage' of songs. Great. Rdio and Spotify must be quaking in their boots. Owing to the service's ubiquity, iTunes may develop a small tremor.
Google I/O/U: Wired magazine described the Netflix contest to inspire a better algorithm to surface "content suggestions" for movie-watchers. This is a huge challenge. Will it be any easier for All Access to stimulate users to more listening based on recorded interests?
Google Play
A Google developer advocate announces that they, "want the whole world to play together". Development APIs come and go, morph and change, but their own Play developer API is now open and platform-agnostic. This goes beyond the "Open Garden" concept of moving one's gameplay fluidly from a tablet to a laptop. Games developed on this platform can be platform agnostic. Droid devices can play games against iOS devices and other platforms.
Google I/O/U: Riveting games.
Google Maps
On the desktop, more usable screen area will be devoted to map. Then, Google will now scatter data all over the Map. Connections. Nearby. Search data.
Google I/O/U: Be graceful in the visual interface. Some users will not appreciate clutter on the maps they are trying to see.
What's Missing
Google Fiber did not make it to the list of Keynote highlights. As their noble experiment proceeds, to provide connection speeds 100 times faster than most of today's broadband internet access, are consumers excited over the prospect of instant downloads and high-def communications? The tech industry, media execs and others in industry have been following the progress as it rolls out to more cities (experiment, or slow roll-out?). Yet, as disruptive as this could become, where is the hoopla? I recall a time recently, when networks ran to keep up with CPU speed. Now, CPU speeds offered by mobile devices and a faltering desktop PC industry will race to chase new throughput speeds. Whoa. Paradigm shift.
Google I/O/U: Testimonials. Consumers need to tell America whether Google Fiber has been a life-changing experience, or not.
Google Unity
Google's efforts to entwine 'products', combine knowledge bases, share user profiles, and cross-pollinate are well-received. This is a welcome attempt to make strategic sense of how, "Google's own services have been fragmented or confused at times", according to Google Android Leader Sundar Pichai.
After-the-fact, ad hoc hybridization is a sloppy, inefficient process. In addition to opportunity, it creates development dead-ends and evolutionary cul-de-sacs (anyone recall the duck-billed Platypus?). But that process is organic and evolutionary. God would have a plan. Google has a process. It burgeons, however inefficiently, into the future. Skynet, anyone?
Google I/O/U: Continue innovating, but for goodness' sake, don't be evil. Have a plan, and share it.
In the early days of the Internet, text was the predominant medium through which information was shared with the masses. In a time before broadband connections, HD videos and even Facebook, the Web was more about functionality than style. While these technical limitations made for a lackluster user experience, they did create a solid blueprint for today's Internet.
When the Web was ruled by text and rudimentary HTML code, pages had to be coded very efficiently in order to load quickly and images and videos were simply out of the question. Although text still plays a crucial role in the modern Internet, technological advancements have placed multimedia and rich content front-and-center.
A Tale of Two Browsers: From Mosaic to Chrome – The Evolution of Digital Content
A Changing of the Guard
As YouTube, Pinterest and other popular sites geared toward images and videos continue to grow, the focus has begun to shift away from text as the primary form of content on the Internet. Today, virtually every website utilizes extensive imagery or video content to engage audiences. Social networks are certainly no exception.
In fact, social media posts or tweets containing images or videos are more likely to be shared or "liked" than those exclusively comprised of text. The bottom line is – rich content is the key to a more effective Social Media marketing strategy.
How to Engage Your Audience with Photos & Videos
Though I specifically cited YouTube and Pinterest as "media-focused" networks, other social profiles can equally benefit from rich content. Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and LinkedIn have all recently added enhanced video and photo integration capabilities for user and business profiles. This functionality allows users to more easily display rich and engaging content.
However, it is always important to consider your audience. When creating new rich content, first ask yourself if your consumers would find it helpful or intriguing. Originality, creativity and even humor are all elements of successful content. Keep it relevant, fun and informative. Developing infographics, instructional videos, customer testimonials and new or upcoming product photos are all engaging ways to reach your social following.
Every successful Social Media Optimization and Marketing campaign begins with delivering quality content to your followers. By offering up unique, captivating videos and images as part of your content strategy, you're well on your way to Social Media success!
Want to learn how to get even more from your Social Media marketing campaign? Ask our Experts or share your thoughts in the comments below!
A common concern (or more accurately, misconception) amongst business owners is that Internet marketing is an unquantifiable or even abstract enterprise. Although any SEO would vehemently disagree and offer up a plethora of resources which serve to disprove such claims; there are still doubters.
So, how exactly does one measure the ROI of search engine optimization, social media marketing, public relations or any other aspect of online marketing? It all comes back to where SEO began – Google.
Thinking Analytically
Before Google Analytics was first unveiled in 2005, there were only a handful of third-party traffic and conversion statistics reporting tools available on the Web. While some of these proved to be fairly effective, none have quite lived up to Google's proprietary service. In fact, Google Analytics remains the most widely-used application of its kind to this day.
An SEO's Best Friend: The Google Analytics Dashboard
Not only does Analytics provide advanced functionality for experts, but it delivers viable real-time data that business owners can understand and use to get more from their site and improve their bottom line. By tracking traffic sources, gathering visitor data and learning which pages on your site are receiving the most views, you're able to not only improve conversion rates, but easily re-strategize your entire online marketing plan with relative ease, as well.
The Winds of Change
Traditional marketing and advertising initiatives are still effective for many businesses; however, determining the cost-benefit of these efforts is still a difficult process. Today, even some of the world's largest and most recognized companies have turned to the Internet to increase their sales and utilize Analytics to boost their lead generation and conversion optimization efforts.
As more brands begin to hop on the digital marketing bandwagon, traffic and conversion reporting has become an even more valuable asset. With Google firmly maintaining its position at the forefront of the analytics game, the search engine that started it all is bringing it all back home by offering one of the single most useful tools for businesses.
Thanks to resources such as Google Analytics, much of the skepticism surrounding Search Engine Optimization is beginning to dwindle. With statistics reporting and tracking tools providing solid facts and definitive data to back the claims of marketers, one thing is evident – a strong online marketing plan is a necessity for virtually every business.
Over the years, link building has changed. Anonymity, once a tool of the trade, will no longer take you far. If you truly want a link building campaign to succeed, you need to stay two steps ahead of your competition and three steps ahead of Google.
No longer can you afford to do the bare minimum when building high quality backlinks. You need to make sure that your competitors cannot duplicate them. By building a relationship with a fellow website in your related industry niche, you will be able to reach out to an audience you were unable to before and receive a high quality backlink that will make Google give you goo-goo eyes. You'll also leave your competitor wondering how you got that perfect link.
Outreach emails are one method of building relationships, but they can be tricky. So, for this Manager Monday, I thought I'd go over a few simple tips and tricks to make the job easier.
Simple Outreach
Let's pretend you've done your research and have compiled the perfect list of websites you would like to reach out to in order for them to share your spectacular content.
First, let me start off by saying outreach isn't easy. But it isn't hard either. Below you can find a few tips that will hopefully improve your email-to-link ratio.
- First and foremost, make sure your email is free of spelling and grammatical errors. There is nothing worse than receiving an email that sounds like it was put together by a third grader–or worse. Also, if the language you use isn't your native tongue, own up to it. There should be no shame in being multilingual.
- What's in it for them? Let's be honest here; no one does anything for free. So why should the recipient link to you? If you can't answer that question then they won't be able to either. Don't assume that they will be able to connect the dots. Do it for them. Perfectly lay out what they will get in return.
- Personalize. Make each and every email as unique as possible. Does this take a little extra time? Definitely. But the results speak for themselves. There is no point in sending out 1,000 cookie-cutter emails if you don't receive a single link in return. In this day and age, spam is everywhere. Make your email stand out by talking about previous posts the recipient has done or by mentioning something they said on one of their social media profiles. Show them that you did your research and it will greatly increase your chances in either a link back or the beginning of a relationship.
Outreach Tools to Make the Job Easier
Buzzstream manages all of your link building needs. If you are unorganized, like me, this will be extremely useful.
Rapportive via Gmail
Rapporative is a Gmail plugin to help you manage your contact information.
Boomerang via Gmail
Boomerang is an easy-to-use Gmail plugin that will help you schedule emails and reminders–nothing like reaching out for a linking opportunity and missing out on it because you forgot to follow up.
Raven Tools
Since they discontinued their rank tracker, Ravel Tools has been updating older tools and offering new ones. For outreach, I use their CRM and Link Manager.
And That's It
To wrap it up: do your homework, make sure you don't sound like a third grader and tell them how they benefit. That's it. Like I said earlier, outreach isn't easy but it isn't hard either. Let me know if you have any questions about the above tools in the comments!
Think of the world of content marketing like an aisle in a grocery store. Google is in charge of stocking the shelves, and they place the best products right where the shopper can see them. In the world of supermarkets, companies pay for that prime space. In the world of organic SEO, Google chooses the products that offer their "shoppers" the best value.
So, the question is, how do you offer the most value in a competitive environment? You present your products in a unique and engaging way. By being unique, your website can enjoy the equivalent of a showcase display at the front of the aisle.
Help visitors find what they need quickly with great content.
Our marketing experts need the answer to two simple questions to get the ball rolling on an exciting and unique content marketing strategy:
1. Who is your target consumer base?
2. What do you offer your customers?
After these questions are answered, your onsite content needs to be reviewed to ensure you are at least providing the essential message your visitors are looking for. Your pages should be set up to offer the maximum convenience to your guest. Keywords and links will naturally find their way into the copy when written with this strategy in mind.
When users are unable to scan your website and determine if you have the information they are looking for within seconds, they are gone. And, if it is clear what you offer, your content better keep their attention with a great hook.
Hook 'em with Humor
In organic SEO, there is no better bait than engaging content.
While there are several ways to hook your audience, one of the most overlooked avenues is humor. The Internet is about connectivity–people love to share something interesting or humorous with their friends and family. When your content has your customers saying, "You have to read this!" Google will recognize the value you offer searchers.
Of course, before you ever add humor to your webpages or daily blogs, you need to realize that humor is the seasoning to the informational steak. It's okay to be funny when your core message is clear. When the two merge, your website can start turning readers into buyers.
Sometimes standing out from the crowd takes courage. Many businesses shy away from humor at the risk of being offensive. This is certainly understandable, but not all humor has to be so blue. For instance, think of Google. They once debuted Gmail Motion on April Fool's Day. In fact, it doesn't have to be a special occasion for Google to bring the funny. Think of all the different Google Doodles on their homepage that always provide sharable, buzz-worthy content. As long as humor is geared toward your user base and is sprinkled in with plenty of high-quality and informative copy, it can be a great way to separate your company from your competitors.
Utilizing humor through infographics or instructrographics is another great way to provide fun, sharable content for your social media campaigns. When you create something funny, promote it through your Facebook, Twitter and other social outlets. It will humanize your business and help potential customers build up some trust in your brand.
If humor isn't an outlet your business can work with, don't worry. When you inform, instruct, or relate to your audience in creative and valuable ways, it produces a relationship with your customers, and that's the hook you need. Then, when SEO techniques bring in more traffic, your content can help reel in the sales.
The folks at Nielsen are pretty good at media market research and providing extensive (and more importantly accurate) data within various verticals including entertainment, advertising and recently, a growing industry which combines both: Social Media.
In this year's Social Media Report which Nielsen released earlier today, a staggering statistic was revealed regarding social media usage – Americans collectively spent 121.1 billion minutes on social networks in July of 2012 alone!
Image Courtesy of Nielsen
According to the infographic published by Nielsen, 5.7 billion of those minutes were logged via mobile devices, 40.8 billion were through apps and somewhat surprisingly, 74 billion minutes were attributed to desktop/laptop users. Even more surprisingly, apps and PCs experienced significantly more growth in this sector than smartphones and tablets.
What's less shocking is Facebook's continued dominance in the social media industry. The world's largest social network accumulated an average of over 300 million visitors per month this year. Facebook also proved to be the most engaging network in terms of audience retention, as users spent more time on the site than any networks such as Google+, Twitter or Pinterest.
Speaking of Pinterest, the up-and-coming, visually-appealing social startup has earned the title of Fastest Growing Network of 2012, having grown by over 1,000% since 2011. Blogger, Twitter, WordPress and LinkedIn were amongst the other top networks this year.
What do these stats mean for business owners? Most importantly, they're an undeniable indicator of social media's staying power and usefulness as a marketing tool. Every minute that a user spends on a networking site sharing, following and liking is another opportunity for businesses to achieve greater consumer awareness and gain new customers. With literally billions of minutes a month being spent on social media, those opportunities are virtually limitless.
Furthermore, these statistics show that while Facebook is the most obvious target for Social Media Optimization & Social Media Marketing campaigns, rapidly emerging networks like Pinterest are truly capable of gaining market share and getting noticed in the social media landscape and shouldn't be overlooked as potential marketing platforms. The data speaks for itself: Social Media is a valuable resource for businesses and those not utilizing it are undoubtedly missing out on one of the world's largest and most effective promotional outlets.
What are your thoughts on Nielsen's 2012 Social Media Report? I'd like to know your thoughts on how social media marketing will change in the year ahead. Leave a comment below, send an email or a tweet with your opinions and insights on the future of Social Media!


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Note to hubby: Happy wife really does equal happy life by Kristen Fischer Sep 19, 2014 Share Tweet Pin Share Save Happy wife, happy life. Right? Right. Read Full Story
Baby names that mean happy by Mary Fetzer Jul 18, 2014 Share Tweet Pin Share Save Babies bring happiness, so why not choose a baby name that describes that feeling? Like your baby-to-be, these happy names will definitely make you smile. Read Full Story
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Everyday inspiration: Do at least one thing that brings you joy by Elaina Verhoff Jun 28, 2014 Share Tweet Pin Share Save Follow your bliss. Sounds easy enough. But it's easy to get sidetracked and stumble off that path to inner happiness. Today, do just one thing that brings you joy. And if you like it, try one more thing tomorrow. (And so on.) Read Full Story
Get happy by finding focus with these 10 simple tips by Mary McCoy May 15, 2014 Share Tweet Pin Share Save Finding focus at work does more than boost productivity. The most focused workers also tend to be the happiest in their professional lives. Here are 10 ways that you can rein in your wandering mind for an extra dose of workplace contentment. Read Full Story
10 Fool-proof tips to becoming a happier person by Kendra Y. Mims Mar 28, 2014 Share Tweet Pin Share Save The pursuit of happiness is different for everyone. But do you really need to wait until you land your dream job, start a family or get out of debt to become a happier person? Here are 10 fool-proof tips to help you become a happier person today. Read Full Story
What complaining does for (and to) your health by Krissy Brady Mar 12, 2014 Share Tweet Pin Share Save OK, so you're having one of those days and desperately need to vent — but how much venting is too much? When does venting morph into complaining? Here's how to get things off your chest without being too Eeyore about it — and why it's important for your health. Read Full Story
5 Things happy women never do by Jessica Padykula Jan 10, 2014 Share Tweet Pin Share Save A lot has been said about the habits of happy people, but what about some of the things they never do? It's time to look at some of the behaviours you should avoid if you want to stay happy. Read Full Story
How to trigger your inner alpha woman by Kendra Y. Mims Jan 06, 2014 Share Tweet Pin Share Save Alpha women are known for being strong, bold and confident achievers who go after what they want in life and take charge of their careers. However, being an alpha woman is much more than your professional accomplishments. Read Full Story
The Reiki way: 5 Ways it can make you happier by Kristina Marquez Oct 11, 2013 Share Tweet Pin Share Save In Penelope Quest's book Living the Reiki Way, she outlines what Reiki is and how it is complementary therapy to physical ailments. Read Full Story


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Fri, Apr 28, 06 at 15:16
I am sorry this is late but I just thought to post here. The Garden Thyme Herb Society is having it's 4th annual SpringThyme in the Garden festival Saturday, April 29, 2006 from 10am to 3pm at the Rose Center backyard at 422 West 2nd Street, North, in Morristown, TN There will be craft vendors, herbs and plants for sale, a bake sale, white elephant sale and an herb luncheon. We would be pleased to have you there and I think you will enjoy it. |
Follow-Up Postings:
- Posted by katiedidcottage z7 TN / Memphis (Oli (My Page) on Thu, May 18, 06 at 10:53
It sounds like a lot of fun as well. Did anyone go? Keep it in mind for next year. Katie |
I'm just getting ready to go. |
Well i had fun! A big surprise wad seeing my pastor and his wife there playing music. I picked up several herbs as well. |
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Oscar is rated out of 5 by 14.
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Date published: 2013-10-02
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Travelling as part of a big group isn't my usual travel style, so I was a little nervous before I left on a recent trip to Spain's Costa del Sol with 10 other ladies for my cousin's hen party. I'm something of an introvert (read anti-social) and really enjoy my own space, especially when I'm travelling, so I worried that I'd find it tough travelling in a big group.
Well, I survived, and I had a great time in the process, so I've prepared a little mini guide on how you can survive group travel…
Don't be afraid to do your own thing
Just because everyone else in your group is going to visit X or Y doesn't mean you have to join them. Don't be afraid to say 'hey guys, I'm going to sit this one out', and go off and do your own thing. Most of the time people would rather have you do something you'd actually enjoy, rather than just staying with the group doing and seeing things you might not be interested in. Don't be scared to break from the group and go visit that UNESCO Heritage Site you've been dying to see or that boat trip you've wanted to take ever since you read about it, or anything else you really want to do. You shouldn't miss out on things you really want to do just because nobody wants to go with you.
I know this is kind of contradicting my above point, but you have to realise that when you're travelling as part of a big group things aren't always going to go your own way. People won't want to go to that restaurant, this bar or that attraction and you have to be OK with that. Part of the beauty of travelling with other people is getting to go to places they've picked out, that you wouldn't normally have gone to. Those can often end up being the best experiences!
Spend some time alone
If you're a little anti-social like me then you'll understand the importance of having some alone time, especially when travelling in a big group. For me, spending a little alone time each day means the difference between sanity and madness! Take a walk alone for half an hour, get lost in the streets, dip your toes in the sea or just sit with a good book and a great view – just take some time to do something you really enjoy. Being alone can be liberating and often makes returning to a group situation all the better.
Break into Smaller Groups
Just because there's lots of people travelling together doesn't mean smaller groups can't break off and do their own thing. 3 people want to go to the museum, 5 want to go to the beach and the rest want to go shopping? Great, go for it. Just because you travel together doesn't mean you all have to live in each others pockets.
Be flexible
If everyone has arranged to meet at a certain time then you can rest assured there will always be people who are late. This annoys me as I'm a stickler for being on time, but when travelling as part of a group I had to get used to people being late. Try not to let it bother you, and whatever you do, don't be that one person who is late for everything!
Play to your strengths…
…and let others use theirs. If you know you have a great sense of direction, don't be afraid to take charge and lead people to where you're supposed to be going. Similarly, you should let the others in your group do the same. If someone has fantastic organisational skills let them use their skills to plan things for your group. If everyone uses their individual strengths to help the group things will be easier for everyone.
Be sociable
As well as mixing with and getting to know everyone in your travel group I recommend talking to other people as well, whether they be locals or other travellers. Making friends with new people widens your social circle and can mean you learn about new places and experiences you weren't previously aware of.
Have FUN!
This is my biggest and most important piece of advice. Smile, laugh and have as much fun as possible. If you go into a group travel experience with a positive attitude and an open mind you'll most likely have a brilliant time.
Do you have any tips on how to survive group travel? I'd love to hear them!
15 Responses to How to Survive Group Travel
Can totally relate to this because I'm an only child, I have antisocial tendencies, love my own space and have zero tolerance for people who take AGES to get ready or move from A to B.
If I do have to travel in a big group again in future (excluding when I'm guiding) I will honestly try to follow your advice but not without moaning and stomping my feet a few times
Suzanne Fluhr (Just One Boomer)
If one or two people were chronically late and held up the group repeatedly, I would encourage the group to leave their sorry
a–es, after a due warning that that is how the group would deal with their next lateness transgression. That may or may not work, but at least it would keep me from being arrested for assault. (Is this too mean?) -
Great advice. I always struggle when traveling in a group and have a tendency to wonder off on my own. Hopefully your tips will help me become less anti-social on my future group trips
Great post, Emma! I can relate to the desire to do your own thing while traveling. While I tend to be an extrovert and enjoy talking to new people, there are times when I have a different preference for what to eat or see. I had a recent experience where I tried to assert myself and eat somewhere different than the group wanted. Some people didn't take it very well. I think it's important to be upfront with the people with whom you are traveling before you go. That way there are not hurt feelings or misunderstandings if some people opt to venture out on their own for a time.
Great article about something we all have to deal with eventually, the group. I tend to be an introvert as well and often need my own space. I also tend to wander off on my own taking photographs, yet try to hurry up and stay with the group. Thanks for your tips!
I don't like group because I don't like compromise. You always have to wait for the slowest one, stop because one is too lazy to go further. I prefer to go by my own.
I am not anti-social, I enjoy discussions but I don't like to have to spend time with people who don't have the same way of travelling.
Shanna Schultz
I planned a family trip for 7 of us to England and I learned a lot about the mechanics of traveling in a group. I didn't plan adequately for the fact that not everyone had the same walking ability and this made things difficult and awkward (and I didn't get to see some of the things that I had wanted to see in London.)
By the time we got to Paris, we had decided to split up into two groups, and sent the person who was holding the group up on one of those hop on, hop off buses, while we took a walking tour. Everybody got what they wanted out of Paris, and I learned a lesson!
Great tips! I'm a frequent solo traveler (AND introvert) and I've learned a lot of these things over time – sometimes the hard way. The introvert in me says: "It's your trip, too, make sure you enjoy it," and the traveler in me says, "It's also your responsibility to contribute to everyone's fun." Not always an easy balance, to be sure!
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Belisle proved once again tonight he can't come in mid-inning and be good. He is not a reliever.
Patience, young grasshopper. He's not going to make an impact at the big league level this year. Remember - coddle thy pitchers.Originally Posted by reds44
There's nothing wrong with allowing a pitcher to dominate at a level for a while.
What if this wasn't a rhetorical question?
All models are wrong. Some of them are useful.
I think he may need more time to warm up than the time you get as a reliever. His fastball seemed to gain MPH when he pitched those 2-3 innings the other day against the Cardinals.Originally Posted by reds44
Come on people. We all know how much better Rick White and Chris Hammond are than Ryan Wagner and Shackelford!
I'm getting sick of the mindset that verteran has-beens are better options than guys like Shack and Wagner in the pen. We've seen what they can do, and can't. Either way they're better options than Burns and Hammond.
They've had a chance to improve, Shack has shown he can pitch in the majors. Wagner is still a question mark, but he's worth another shot considering our options. What will it take to convince Krivsky that guys like Hammond and Burns are unworthy of pitching in the majors?
We have better options, take a chance. I'm sick of saying "Well, you don't score six every day... let's hope the bullpen doesn't blow it again"
I was one on the get rid of White and Burns. I saw White pitch tonight and while he wasn't spectacular, he definitely bought himself some more time. Burns gone Shackelford up. Next injury, hello Wagner. Thats the way it likely will be.
They get shelled like true ballplayers.Originally Posted by CrackerJack
Go Gators!
If I lived anywhere near Louisville, I'd be down there, chatting up the BP, trying to get a feel for how they feel about it...never know unless you tried...
Hammond has looked ok in his last couple of outings. White tends to look ok for a few batters, then gets hit. I guess I can live with him.Originally Posted by kheidg-
To me, Burns is the first to go to AAA, followed by Belisle who can work on starting down there.
There is no good reason Shack shouldn't be with the Reds. Four of the six relievers for the Reds flat out stink. It would not bother me who they cut between Hammond,White,Belisle or Burns. They are all terrible.
Reds Fan Since 1971
Shackelford has been called up per 1360.
I miss Adam Dunn.
Dear Brian, 7 innnings does not a career make.Originally Posted by reds44
Time to bring back Ben Weber.
How about Josias Manzanillo?
Yes, I'm kidding
What if this wasn't a rhetorical question?
All models are wrong. Some of them are useful.
Looks like they'll have three lefties in the bullpen now because I highly doubt they're going to do anything with Chris Hammond at this point due to the fact that the last few outings he's really settled down and got that wiffle-change going. He can still be a real asset to this team. Kent Mercker obviously isn't going anywhere, so Shackelford now makes three lefties.
My guess is Mike Burns gets the orders to drive south.
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So, I can read, big deal right. It was pointed out to me recently that with the death of J.D. Salinger all my favorite authors are dead. Just in case you wanted to know the others include Douglas Adams and a bunch of long gone philosophers. I don't make nearly enough time for my own reading pleasure anymore and no where has that been more…
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Explore Hotel
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Relax at our Cartagena beach hotel's stunning oceanfront location
At the Radisson Cartagena Ocean Pavillion, you can embrace the tropical resort vibe as you soak up some sun beside the sparkling outdoor pool, which also affords stunning ocean views. Stay connected using free wireless Internet access and a convenient business center, and enjoy delicious Caribbean cuisine at the hotel's on-site dining options. Heading to the famous Cartagena beach? The hotel's Sal Marina Beach Bar serves refreshing Caribbean cocktails.
Hotel services include:
- 233 hotel rooms and suites
- One restaurant and three bars
- 1,052 square meters (11,326 square feet) of flexible event space
- Outdoor pool with ocean view
- Whirlpool tubs on the terrace
- Pool chairs and towels (complimentary)
- Concierge service
- Self-parking (complimentary)
- High-speed, wireless Internet access (complimentary)
- Multilingual staff
- Taxi service available through the concierge desk
- Room service (full menu available 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; limited menu available 10 p.m.-6:30 a.m.)
- Dry cleaning and laundry service
- Children 12 and under stay free with two paying adults
- Express check-in and check-out


text: This is real hidden gem. Tucked away on the 6th floor of the Main Public Library is a treasure trove of random items, books and art of the City. Some random items included in the collection: Mayor [now senator] Diane Fienstein's Wedding dress A collection of menus from various restaurants that were on display earlier this year A greeting card... More


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Thu, Apr 29, 10 at 7:53
Would like to order a couple of pink brugs potted up and ready to grow..have two CG'S. Please recommend source and name of cultivar. Thanks Steve S |
Follow-Up Postings:
- Posted by tommysmommy Colorado (My Page) on Thu, Apr 29, 10 at 9:49
Well at Country Gardens I've really enjoyed their Santa Rosa hybrid. It does grow quite tall, but has huge, dark pink flowers. |
I would buy from CG.. They have quite a few to choose from.. Santa Rosa is one of my Fav's.. Loves the heat..Jinny Lind is a heavy bloomer , sets seed easy and smells amazing.. Painted Lady..Cherub |
- Posted by karyn1 MD 7 (firstname.lastname@example.com) on Thu, Apr 29, 10 at 19:11
Country Garden is the best brug nursery IMO. I think my favorite single pinks are L'Amour and Butterfly but all that have been mentioned are beautiful. |
Being a newbie I would definetly agree with Karyn. I ordered brugs from two other companies besides Country Garden and theirs were the best. The cuttings were twice as big as the other places and the roots looked nice and healthy. I was also impressed with the way they were shipped, no loose dirt escaped the pot, leaves were not bent or broken. Being a newbie I can't make any suggestions on types, but I have taken note of the favorites mentioned and I will be looking!!! |
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I spent a weekend at Kuantan!
This photo was shot on film. Taken by eva_eva with a Lomo LC-A Refurbished loaded with kodak EL 400 film in Kuantan, Malaysia. These tags describe this photo: eva_eva, evaeva, kodak, el, kuantan, trip, unimates, chicks, sunshine, beach, town, color, ship, skies, kite, alone, wind, east, coast, lca, and lcadiary. Date: 2011-08. This photo can also be found in the album LCA94 - Kuantan.Please login to get more out of this site
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Police: Poultney teens pepper spray sheriff's deputyBy Darren Marcy
Staff Writer | June 18,2014POULTNEY Two teenagers picked the wrong victim Monday afternoon in Poultney.
The boys, who were not identified by authorities, allegedly pepper-sprayed an off-duty sheriffs deputy, a retired member of the Vermont State Police, as he jogged along Main Street about 4:15 p.m.
Deputy Edward H. Hunter, 53, turned and gave chase despite the effects of the pepper spray, catching and holding at least one of the boys, both of whom were on bicycles.
Three state troopers and Fair Haven police responded and questioned the boys, holding them until parents arrived.
Trooper Walter Ribeiro cited the boys to appear in juvenile court at a later date to answer to the charge of simple assault.
Police were investigating whether the pepper spray that was used had been stolen from a local hardware store.
Vermont State Police Lt. Charles Cacciatore said the two boys were apparently riding their bikes on the sidewalk toward Hunter just before they sprayed him.
Cacciatore said there was no indication the boys knew Hunter was a deputy or targeted him for any reason except that he was the next person to come along.
It was just a haphazard deal, Cacciatore said.
Hunter was treated at the scene by the Poultney Rescue Squad.
Cacciatore said Hunters face was sore after the assault.
Sheriff Stephen Benard said Tuesday Hunter returned to duty and appeared to be well on his way to recovering from the incident, although, he said, the effects of pepper spray can linger for days.
darren.marcy @rutlandherald.comMORE IN This Just InMONTPELIER — Vermont Health Department says eight children from the Charlotte Central... Full StoryGIRLS BASKETBALL Full StoryWHITE RIVER JCT. Full Story -
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Contents tagged with SOAWeb Services
K2 "BlackPearl" Beta 1 TR2
On Mach 26th, SourceCode Technology Holdings will release the Beta 1 Technical Refresh 2 of their upcoming K2 product code-named "BlackPearl". If you've never heard of SourceCode they are best known for their workflow product called K2.NET. The new product is currently branded K2 "blackpearl" but there is no word yet on what the final name will be. I will just call it K2 from here on. You can get a preview of K2 at this teaser site.
I spent some time at SourceCode's North American head quarters in Redmond last week for some in-depth demos, and I was really impressed with what I saw. While the old K2.Net product was pretty nifty and quite successful (I blogged about it here), this new product is going to make K2 a world-class player in the workflow and Business Process Management (BPM) arena. In fact, this new product is so rich in functionality it defies description, and I think it breaks new ground that no competitors are covering yet, on any platform. As I was going through a demo of the new functionality my mind was racing, thinking of all the new possibilities this technology brings to the table. I was also struggling to come up with a concise way of describing it. After much reflection I came up with "Business Process Oriented Development Platform". Here's why…
K2 is still a workflow product (now built on top of Microsoft's Workflow Foundation), but it also becomes a true BPM platform, something the old version was not. K2 is also strong as an Enterprise Application Integration platform (leveraging the new BizTalk/.NET Adapter Framework built on Windows Communication Framework). Last but not least, K2 is also an Application Server with strong support for rapid application development (leveraging SOA standards and principles, SQL Server, the .Net Framework, Visual Studio, and the Office Platform). So it is a complete application server and development platform with a strong workflow engine at its core, and a very flexible integration platform built-in.
There is way too much new functionality to do it justice in a single blog post so I will post a series of articles as I take the latest beta version through its paces. -
Jevdemon on The 4 Tenets of Workflow
I just ran into this interesting blog entry by Jevdemon entitled The 4 Tenets of Workflow. I think it is more of a description of workflow then a set of tenets, but nonetheless, it's an intersting read.
Microsoft Claims BizTalk Outpaces Enterprise Service Bus
Interesting article in eWeek today...
Visual Studio Hosted Experience!
Microsoft is offfering hosted servers with hands-on virtual labs. Check them out here you can sign-up for free.
Avanade Connected Architectures
Here's an interesting case study on some of our technology.
Many of my fellow RDs got together at TechEd and put together these "GrokTalks", which are 10 minutes long micro-presentations. Very cool, check it out at: http://www.groktalk.net/blog/
EI Challenge #2
EI Challenge #2
The second biggest challenge that we encounter on all EAI projects is testing. Testing something that is essentially a magic black box with messages coming in at one end and out the other is already something of a challenge. When you add to that the fact that you are likely interfacing with multiple other systems, on multiple platforms, and using multiple protocols, you now have a huge challenge on your hands. How can you test that something that came out of SAP, came through BizTalk, got transformed, validated and encrypted, had business rules applied to it, and then was routed to be consumed by an external system actually created the expected results? How do you find out if something wasn't quite right along the way? Where did it happen? How do you correlate the incorrect results in the target system with the actual transaction that came out of SAP and every other step in between?
Simply put, this requires a lot of planning. Right from the requirements gathering phase, you must identify what will need to be tested and how you will validate the end results. You must also plan your architecture and design to support testing. This usually involves using some kind of transaction ID that you can use to correlate messages from source to destination. This may sound trivial, but a lot of systems do not support such an externally generated ID, and you may not have the option of changing those systems. You may have to resort to the creative use of an unused data field, or some auditing mechanism that stores both your transaction ID and the system's corresponding ID.
For projects of any significant size you should also plan on developing some tools to help you with the task of correlating messages and validating what happens to them (their state) at each step of the process. You should be capable of injecting and inspecting messages at all stages of the process. You should also design the system so that tracing can be turned on or off at multiple levels of detail to support various levels of testing and troubleshooting. BizTalk already offers some tools like HAT to help you with this task, but HAT doesn't bring in data from the external processes nor does it provide a mechanism to correlate with that external data.
In summary, testing a complex BPI solution is a challenge, but one that is not insurmountable if you plan for it ahead of time. Just like a solution architect should always wear his/her "security hat", s/he should also wear a "testing hat" throughout the life of the project, from envisioning to deployment. Failure to properly plan, architect, and design the solution with testing in mind will result in serious difficulties and delays in the latter part of the project, and even throughout the system's useful life.
Scott Hanselman's 2005 Ultimate Developer and Power Users Tool List
My fellow RD Scott Hanselman's is know for discovering all the neatest little tools and utilities out there. He just updated his famous list:
DevTeach 2005
I will be speaking on the subject of BizTalk 2004 and SOA at DevTeach 2005 in June. If you've never heard of this conference, I encourage you to check it out. It's is not only affordable, but it offers an roster of speakers, and it is set in one of the world's best cities.


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King James Version (KJV) | New International Version (NIV) |
6 And the children of Israel stripped themselves of their ornaments by the mount Horeb. | 6 So the Israelites stripped off their ornaments at Mount Horeb. |
7 And Moses took the tabernacle, and pitched it without the camp, afar off from the camp, and called it the Tabernacle of the congregation. And it came to pass, that every one which sought the LORD went out unto the tabernacle of the congregation, which was without the camp. | 7 Now Moses used to take a tent and pitch it outside the camp some distance away, calling it the "tent of meeting." Anyone inquiring of the LORD would go to the tent of meeting outside the camp. |
8 And it came to pass, when Moses went out unto the tabernacle, that all the people rose up , and stood every man at his tent door, and looked after Moses, until he was gone into the tabernacle. | 8 And whenever Moses went out to the tent, all the people rose and stood at the entrances to their tents, watching Moses until he entered the tent. |
9 And it came to pass, as Moses entered into the tabernacle, the cloudy pillar descended , and stood at the door of the tabernacle, and the LORD talked with Moses. | 9 As Moses went into the tent, the pillar of cloud would come down and stay at the entrance, while the LORD spoke with Moses. |
10 And all the people saw the cloudy pillar stand at the tabernacle door: and all the people rose up and worshipped , every man in his tent door. | 10 Whenever the people saw the pillar of cloud standing at the entrance to the tent, they all stood and worshiped, each at the entrance to his tent. |
11 And the LORD spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend. And he turned again into the camp: but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the tabernacle. | 11 The LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks with his friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua son of Nun did not leave the tent. |
12 And Moses said unto the LORD, See , thou sayest unto me, Bring up this people: and thou hast not let me know whom thou wilt send with me. Yet thou hast said , I know thee by name, and thou hast also found grace in my sight. | 12 Moses said to the LORD, "You have been telling me, 'Lead these people,' but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, 'I know you by name and you have found favor with me.' |
13 Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, shew me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: and consider that this nation is thy people. | 13 If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people." |
14 And he said , My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest . | 14 The LORD replied, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest." |
15 And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence. | 15 Then Moses said to him, "If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. |
16 For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated , I and thy people, from all the people that are upon the face of the earth. | 16 How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?" |
The King James Version is in the public domain. (The King James Bible Version Online) | Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. (New International Version Bible Online) |