text:
Well, I've really blown the momentum of my reportage on the second part of our Women Who Rock visit. Life intercedes as it usually does.
Solar flares, computer troubles, pending deadlines and a wallop of impending Mercury retrograde messing with transportation and internet connections ... I'm starting to wonder. Add in an overwhelming desire to sleep until Spring is officially here and I'm dreadfully late. Again.
Interest has surely waned in our little adventure and I haven't even shared our experience at the Cleveland bus station. Sorry, Margaret!
Being a woman of my word, and in the interest of expediency, I offer a poetic diatribe as an alternative. It's not the best poetry but I haven't much time for swift rhythm and rhyme. Enjoy the videos if nothing else, in the spirit of International Women's Day, I give you this:
You see the blues had a baby
and named it rock 'n' roll
but rock 'n' roll had a mama
and she sang the Blues
Mamie Smith, Ma Rainey,
Bessie Smith, Billie Holiday
and lesser known Black Pearls too:
Sippie Wallace, Edith Wilson,
Ida Cox, Alberta Hunter to name
just a few.
spirituals, country ballads
and rhythm and blues
Willie Mae Thornton
Mother Maybelle
Loretta Lynn
or rock-a-billy Queen
Wanda Jackson;
they knew
Girl Groups
like the Shangri-Las,
the Ronettes, Little Eva
or the Supremes
And all those songs going
through my brain
while Janis channeled Big Mama
when she sang Ball and Chain.
Bonnie Raitt, Tina Turner,
Grace Slick, and yes, in her black
leather jacket, Joan Jett
She wore a button that said
"Pro Fucking Choice"
with no apology; you bet.
own Chrissie Hynde
with her contralto
so fine.
Deboray Harry
Patti Smith
Kim Deal
Marianne Faithfull
Kim Gordon
and more.
You gave me a chance to experience
with my woman child all the
wonderful women who came before
But still I had a nagging feeling
when I walked out your door
we looked at the Rock Hall
inductee list
we scrolled down
and saw THIS
I might be remiss
but I think
there's something
you've got some balls
Women and Song ...
regarding the
Women Who Rock ...
© Scarlett Sumac 2012
And maybe I'm just old-fashioned enough to say Britney and those of her ilk should not be in the same room as Chrissie Hynde, Grace Slick or Patti Smith. I'm the first to admit I'm a rock 'n' roll snob. Of the highest degree.
Perhaps I should be more open like my daughter who was born in the 1990's. To her credit while at the RnRHofF she dragged me into a seminar where I learned about the role of women in Hip-Hop. As a result my mind is more open to understanding the context of the form and its messaging.
As we neared the end of the exhibit some text at the RnRHall expressed the 1990's, "was the era of the riot grrrl, the rapper and the Lilith Fair, reshaping traditional ideas of feminism and traditionally male-dominated areas of the music industry. Women have arguably become the leading voices of the industry, standing -- army-booted, bare-footed, or high-heeled stiletto -- toe to toe with any artist of today."
Maybe things are coming full circle. I have faith that out there the next big thing is percolating.
And hopefully they won't be typecast in the Women Who Rock's current exhibit called "Ladies First." In 2012? Really?
And, I dare say, you know who they are in a number of cases ... over primped and preened pop star models.
It's my own personal opinion but they might have something to learn from the women that came before them. I know I did.
Thanks for this excellent post,
I have slowpoke rusty rural hookup.
My neighbor has fast-speed hooker-up.
I visit with a few 'Fat Tire' cold brews.
I have to wait sometimes to view photos.
Maybe I catch up with the times someday.
I never heard of some of these Musicians.
I ask my Granddaughter to fill me in `news.
She always lends me books that She Loves.
I returned a P.U. `CD called `Doodle Bugs.
She's about my Primary Source `Inspiration.
I promise to Listen attentively `Lard Willing.
If I go out this late I may get two`Fat Tires.
DH: I agree ... wonderful performers to explore.
jmac: Enjoy.
Art: May your grand daughter teach you well. :)
Faboo post, you are my musical sister. Can I add Memphis Minnie? And Jessie Mae Hemphill, six inch long fingernails that never hindered her fretwork, growling She-Wolf. Woooohooo!
Thanks for the vids, too. I don't think I've ever seen footage of Big Mama Thornton before so I particularly appreciated that.
"Life intercedes" indeed. I know all about that one these days.
Nothing but musical history we should every forget..
Magically, musically done my friend.
Empty me
Like a dustman rids a rubbish bin
Fill me up with glimpses of you
And let the music begin
Oh oh oh
Take me to the altar
Let's make a pact
One we'll never take back
Let me prove that I'm true
Let's make a pact
Alter me
The change could only do me good
Other have tried to and failed
I wish that somebody could
Oh oh oh
Do what no one can do
Let's make a pact
One we'll never take back
Let me prove that I'm true
Let's make a pact
Take me to the world and let me wonder at the view
Set me off in motion and let me dance
After 20 years of doubt and then a week with you
I'm ready baby - follow thorugh!
Cover me in dirt
And leave me to the wind and the rain
If I should ever hurt
The one who made me human again
Oh oh oh
Take me to the altar
Let's make a pact
One we'll never take back
Let me prove that I'm true
Let's make a pact
Admittedly some of the songstresses are arcane to me. Others mainstream. Wonderful musician-lady-writer you are!
☼(ˆ◡ˆ) ⋱ ⋮ ⋰
(ˆ◡ˆ) ♥⋯ ❤ ⋯ ★
☼(ˆ◡ˆ) ⋰ ⋮ ⋱(¯`•´¯)¸.(¯`•´¯).¸.(¯`•´¯)¸.Have a Memorable WeekEnd NOW! ☼
•¸.•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨` *•.•¸.•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨` *• Hugs ☼
Can I also say how much I love that Big Mama's video begins with her striding in with her giant pocketbook, setting it carefully on a chair before she begins to sing? She is the very definition of cool.
Do you know Sue Foley? Amazing guitarist - good singer, but got this tiny voice. She was going around interviewing and recording all sorts of obscure female blues guitarists - women guitarists in the field (or any field) not getting much recognition.
green heron: Yes, you hear Big Mama Thornton before you see her and then she comes on carrying that big purse. What agency and what talent! In an earlier comment you mentioned guitars. Let me tell you I sliced and diced this post. I had a whole paragraph on the absence of guitars in the women's exhibit; there were a few but more emphasis on fashion. I say show me the body, show me the neck, show me the fretboard with the DNA of sweat and blood and tears. But that is for another forum. Thanks for sharing in this with me. If you follow the "Black Pearls" link there is path to amazing books (one of the same name) about the first blues singers. Angela Davis's book Blues Legacies and Black Feminism is a great one too.
Serenita: Nice to snare you in this trap:) I got caught here too watching these videos over and over. Of course this post only touches the tip of the iceberg and there are many names off my list. While I'm here let me add Odetta. Hope your garden is coming along well. I'm envious, it's snowing here.
Algis: Gonna try and make the most of it!
l'Heure Bleue: Yes and yes! Serious strength ... When we share it; it grows exponentially.
JP Hart: I've got excellent material to work with and I defer to the masters on this one. Not too many words, let the music speak for itself.
Margaret: See you and Hynde both have the Ohio rocker bangs. I told you! Ah, my bus station story ... my kid suggested I tell it a different way and when it comes to certain matters, she's always
right. So I'm reworking it ...learning from youngsters ...who'da thunk it. :)
femme: Thank You! You know if you click on the "THIS" link (maybe you have) and you scroll that list you think: Holy F**ck. I mean, where are the women? Certainly they weren't all in the back room with the cock-rockers now were they? Geez, let's rethink this, so I did. And then did some more. In a way, it's rather old news. But the Women Who Rock exhibit was [ supposedly] a contemporary statement. There was lots of good stuff there but I can't over look some things. I also seriously edited my rather scathing first draft on it. Don't worry darlin', I'll find another use for it. :)
Jeff J: I'm careful about my fanaticism on some things but I make an exception when it comes to Chrissie Hynde. I saw her do that Middle of the Road tour in the video. I LOVE her. So I get it. Let's make a pact, indeed. Nice to meet you.
Luminous: It's our party and we'll cry if we want to, shall we?:) Yes and Dusty Springfield, though I suspect she's already on your iPod.
Zanelle: Happy to provide inspiration.
catch: back atcha. you had quite a nice musical poem there yourself, bella.
Fusun: Thanks. I've got to get over to your post, was out last night. Hey, thanks for letting me know about "Girl's Day" ...
green: Absolutely, Memphis Minnie. I think I'll be cruising some more on YouTube today. Dolly Parton has such long finger nails too ... I'm like , "Is she really playing that thing?"
Con: I really appreciate your comment. Yes, the hair does stand up ... and that growly voice ... well you know. You're OS's popular culture king. :)
Maureen: Yes! backatcha too.
Various: You should definitely go to the Hall. I would never suggest not going. I've been 3 x. Yes, RS/Jann Wenner's bastion ...know all about it and deliberately left it out here. Did see many of the RS covers there. They ain't what they used to be, that's for sure!
Linda: Hope you're feeling better. It's been so mild (until today) that tons of people are sick around here. Hope you get over yours quickly. We're on the same page abut remembering where all this came from.
Abra: Tina's up there. There is an essay by a writer named bell hooks that just may (or may not) change your mind about Madonna.
I was struggling at one point with my contradictory feelings about Madonna. After reading the essay, I put my conflicts to rest. You may have noticed she's not in my poem.
Sheila: Now I bet you acknowledged/celebrated International Women's Day. Cheers!
And, at the risk of being one of those annoying people who say, "Oh, but have you ever seen this one?", I'm going to say, "Oh, but have you ever seen ? She may have been gospel, but she really rocked. (With your vast knowledge, you probably already know about her.)
Oooh, looks like I'm going to have to spend some time in here today. Great poem! Chicks with guitars rule!
And, at the risk of being one of those annoying people who say, "Oh, but have you ever seen this one?", I'm going to say, "Oh, but have you ever seen this one? She may have been gospel, but she really rocked. (With your vast knowledge, you probably already know about her.)
Maybe Pink for the hip-hoppers -
"So what I'm still a rock star
I got my rock moves
And I don't need you"
the beat goes on...
Okay, since we're sharing, my all time guitar heroine Libba, who I don't know how to blue link, but here she is playing her signature tune, Freight Train. Note that she is playing her little parlor git box left handed and upside down, like Jimi did.
Scarlett.....the guitars are so important. Bonnie Raitt had that program to give red Strats to little guitar playing girls, replicas of hers.
to come full circle, for
this is what things do!
self aggrandizing girly pop stars are ephemeral.
whitney is our lesson for that.
it is currently an oversexed culture,
because of fundamentalism's goofy reprise
in the Republican Party.
The next big thing? My big brain tells me : duets.
those great collaboration songs between
male & female artists?
is it ok to call them chix? is rok grrlz better? rok womenz? i never know these days what's acceptable. :(
Jeanette: Thanks so much for Sister Rosetta playing her electric guitar and all singing gospel. (I'll put the video up after I finish commenting). I don't know that I have "vast" knowledge but thanks. I read and researched quite a bit regarding the first women of Blues, the rock stuff well, like Lou Reed says, I think I was "saved" by R'n' R.
Damon: I know I really gotta get with the times. Musically, I seem to be going backwards there days to the roots. Yes, Pink and so many others. My daughter gets me back on track when she's home.
ASH: TY. Normally I would've worked more on that poem before putting it up. But it was IWD and I just threw it out there like a kind of rap conversation. Maybe I'll rework it and send it to The Hall. :)
AKA: Time to get out your National and play along. :)
Belinda: Thanks for sharing in this.
Asian Rein: Very professional new avvy. Glad you're enjoying it @ work ... I can't watch videos at my job. Good for you. Can you believe Janis Joplin was not inducted into the Hall of Fame until 1995???
Owl Says Who: So this is what we have to do to pull you from the nest. :)
Green: Nice to see you thrice. "Freight train, freight"... What a beautiful video. Bowing before Elizabeth Cotton here.
James: The duet? Like Sonny & Cher ... The Beat Goes On. :)
Nana: Your comment made me laugh. When my daughter and I were in Ohio she said she wanted to reclaim the term "chicks." I said "Go for it and so will I!"
"I met a girl who sang the blues/And I asked her for some happy news...."
Love it.
Bo: Yes, Etta! and those she paved the way for. I know I didn't include everyone but it is good to see the names appearing in this thread. Though I throw a good party in 'real life' I haven't been around to tend the fires here. Mea culpa. Hope you the TPR are well.
Good women all. YAY US!!
This was excellent. :)
"You see the blues had a baby
and named it rock 'n' roll
and she sang the Blues"
Don't dump too much on your poetry--that's pretty good!!


text:
Here at Urban Pie, we're all about deep-filled delicious savoury pies. But as Valentine's Day is coming up, we're feeling a bit sweet-toothed and thought we'd share the recipe for these amazing Valentine's Heart Pies with you…
- 1 batch single-crust pie dough
- Heaping 1/3 cup jam
- Milk or cream
- Coarse sanding sugar
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment.
Roll out the dough and cut an even number of circles using a cookie cutter or a large glass (around 3 inches across). Re-roll scraps if necessary.
Using a heart cookie cutter or a butter knife, cut out the hearts.
Arrange half of the dough circles onto the baking sheet, then place a tablespoon of jam into the center of each.
Using your finger, lightly wet the edges of the circle with milk (or cream), then top with another dough circle, lightly pressing to seal.
Curl up the edges of the sealed circles, then press down with the tines of a fork to crimp closed. This will keep the filling from leaking out.
Using a pastry brush, brush the tops of the crimped dough circles with more milk, then place a heart on the top.
Brush the hearts with a tiny bit more milk, then generously sprinkle with coarse sanding sugar.
Poke a few holes around the heart with a toothpick to let the steam out while they are baking.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Application Guidelines
The registration site for the 2015 Long-Term and Cross-Disciplinary Fellowships is closed.
2015 competition
The fellowship initiation deadline was 13 August 2014.
The fellowship submission deadline was 28 August 2014.
Applicants are advised to carefully read the following document before writing their proposal:
It lists the eligibility criteria and contains useful information about the 2015 fellowships.
2015 instructions for accessing and completing the online fellowship application form:
The link to the HFSP extranet page for registration is https://extranet.hfsp.org/


text:
Offer - Birds Eye 36 Chicken Nuggets Frozen 750g
Price per 100g: 26.7p
Product Description
We know that teatime isn't always easy, kids are hungry and time is short. But here at Birds Eye we know how to make the perfect Chicken Nugget to make those teatimes stress free with all the quality we know you expect from us. Our nuggets are made with succulent & juicy chicken breast in delicious golden breadcrumbs. The whole family are sure to love them. Yum.
Chicken breast responsibly sourced from carefully selected farms, the majority of which are family owned
We only use the finest quality ingredients which you would find at home
Recipes created with leading experts, to our strict nutritional standards
Forever Food Together
Our commitment to a sustainable future means responsibly sourcing and preparing your food, creating new products that contribute to a balanced diet, and helping everyone to reduce food waste.
Why not try our delicious Crispy Chicken Dippers?
Product Information
Half Price
/Meat & Poultry
/Breaded Chicken, Nuggets & Burgers
/Chicken Nuggets
This Week's Top Offers
- Brands: Birds Eye
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Birds Eye
Keep Frozen
Oven cook - From Frozen. Your Chicken Nuggets contain raw meat, please ensure that they are cooked thoroughly until piping hot throughout.
Tastiest when oven baked straight from the freezer.
210°C, Fan 190°C, Gas Mark 7, 15 mins.
Pre-heat oven.
Place on a baking tray.
Turn over once halfway through.
Cook until crisp and golden.
Please ensure food is cooked until piping hot.
These instructions are guidelines only.
Do Not refreeze after defrosting.
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Careline information...
Call us free on 0800 33 22 77
Mon - Fri 8am to 6pm
ROI: Callsave 1850 298 398
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Freepost ADM3939,
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Birds Eye Limited,
Freepost ADM3939,
Package Type
Heat Sealed
Recycling Information
Film - Plastic - Not Currently Recycled
Other Information
Full Product Name:
Prefried nuggets formed from chopped chicken breast coated in breadcrumbs.
Store in a freezer at -18°C or cooler
Safety Warning:
Although great care has been taken to remove all bones, some may remain.
7 Servings
Additional Information:
Nuggets (Average)
Allergen Information
Allergens can be found in the ingredients list
May Contain Eggs
Allergy Advice: For allergens see highlighted ingredients
Chicken Breast (41%), Breadcrumbs (Wheat Flour, Water, Yeast, Salt, Paprika, Turmeric), Water, Flour (Wheat, Maize), Rapeseed Oil, Chicken Fat, Salt, Natural Flavourings (contains Celery)
Nutritional Data
Typical Values | As Sold 100g Provides: | Per 5 Chicken Nuggets (99g) Oven Baked Provides: |
Energy - kJ | 1073kJ | 1070kJ |
- kcal | 256kcal | 255kcal |
Fat | 12.9g | 13.0g |
- of which Saturates | 1.6g | 1.6g |
Carbohydrate | 22.6g | 22.0g |
- of which Sugars | 0.6g | 0.6g |
Fibre | 0.9g | 0.9g |
Protein | 12.0g | 12.0g |
Salt | 0.78g | 0.78g |
Customer Reviews
23 June 2014
1 of 3 found this review helpful.
Not nice
I will be feeding these to the birds. My son couldn't bring himself to eat them...I've never had to insist on a child eating all their nuggets before, it's normally kind of a done deal. I tried one, it seemed more like a veggie nugget, & I wondered if it was chicken in it!
21 May 2014
4 of 5 found this review helpful.
40 per cent chicken breast
Son loves these... The ingredients are listed on the birds eye website if anyone is interested...
26 March 2014
2 of 4 found this review helpful.
Very telling that the list of ingredients is not displayed on the Ocado website
10 March 2014
2 of 4 found this review helpful.
interesting chicken nuggets
tasted ok ,I don't know if other ocoda shoppers have noticed on list of ingredents there is no mention of chicken so I do wonder what is in them
- Disclaimer
- These summary details have been prepared for information purposes only, and are designed to enhance your shopping experience on the Ocado website. While we have taken care in preparing this summary and believe it is accurate, it is not a substitute for your reading the product packaging and label prior to use. You should note that products and their ingredients are subject to change. If you do require precise ingredient information you should consult the manufacturer, whose contact details will appear on the packaging or label.
- Ocado is therefore unable to accept liability for any incorrect information. Where this description contains a link to another party's website for further information on the product, please note that Ocado has no control over and no liability for the contents of that website.
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text:
ASHLAND, Ore. – School has begun for college students at Southern Oregon University, Oregon Institute of Technology and Rogue Community College. Before those students start school, Beloit College releases a list about their political and cultural backgrounds.
On the first day of school, Southern Oregon University students are plugged in, taking calls, listening to music and hitting the web. The incoming freshman, the class of 2016, have never lived a day without Internet; that's part of the annual Beloit College Mindset List. It's meant to give professors an idea of the cultural touchstones that shape the lives of their students.
According to the mindset list, the incoming freshman are only familiar with outdated technology because of the icons on their smart phones and tablets. A telephone to make a call, an envelope for email and a floppy disc to save.
David West, Director of Native American Programs at SOU, has taught at the university since the year the incoming freshman were born.
"They are a lot more technologically sound, they have a broader perception of the world because of the world wide web," West said.
The Mindset List touches on politics, saying the freshman, most likely born in 1994, know more about Hillary Clinton, than her husband. It also talks about pop culture. For this year's freshman, TV is on the go, there have always been blue M&M's, and Twilight has more to do with vampires than Rod Serling.
Regardless of the mindset, these freshman, like college freshmen for years, are ready to find their place.


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The Georgia Department of Administrative Services, Human Resources Administration (formerly State Personnel Administration) website will serve as the main source of information for all enterprise HR initiatives and activities.
The domain name for SPA.GA.GOV changed to
on July 1, 2012. We suggest that you bookmark this page or add it to your "Favorites" for easy access during frequent and future visits, and to stay abreast of the exciting things taking place at HRA.
You will be redirected in approximately 10 seconds to our new website at


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Overview of Available Services
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Visit our TESTIMONIALS page to hear from more of our athletes!


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Arnold Schwarzenegger & Danny Devito: 'Twins' Co-Stars Reunite – Pic
The 'Twins' got together again! Nearly 30 years after starring together in the film, Danny Devito and Arnold Schwarzenegger reunited and it will warm your heart!
Aw! Danny DeVito, 70, was on hand to present his Twins costar, Arnold Schwarzenegger, 67, with a lifetime achievement award at the Golden Camera awards on Feb. 27. Not only did the two pose for a nostalgia-inducing pic, Danny also presented the award to Arnold, causing both to get super emotional!
Click here to read more
Leonardo DiCaprio & Rihanna: First Pics Of Them Together Revealed
This rumored couple couldn't stay secret forever! The first ever pics of Leo and Rihanna together have been released, and they're from her birthday party. Click to see the PICS!
Leonardo DiCaprio, 40, and Rihanna's secret rumored romance has kept us on our toes for months. Until now. The first photos of Leo and Rihanna together show them getting cozy at Rihanna's 27th birthday party on Feb. 20! We've been waiting a long time for these two to step out together, and we finally got our wish!
Click here to read more
Rihanna & Leonardo DiCaprio: Would He Care If She Hooks Up With Other Guys?
Is the passion still burning between RiRi and Leo? The 'Wolf of Wall Street' actor has been getting cozy with other women, so would he care if Rihanna hooked up with other guys? HollywoodLife.com has the EXCLUSIVE scoop on where they stand.
Are we seeing the end of the road for Rihanna and Leonardo DiCaprio, or a bright new future? Leo, 40, is flirting with other women and reportedly not ready to commit to the "Stay" singer, but how would he feel if the tables were turned and Rihanna, 27, was the one with other men? Here's what we EXCLUSIVELY know on the future of the rumored Hollywood hot couple.
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Chris Brown & Karrueche Tran: Why She's Better For Him Than Rihanna
Chris Brown knows Karrueche Tran is the one for him — a source close to Chris told HollywoodLife.com EXCLUSIVELY that he considers Karrueche a WAY better fit for him than Rihanna ever was. Find out why!
Karrueche Tran "is like superwoman" to Chris Brown, our source spilled. Wow — it sounds like Chris knows this is the real deal! He thinks the world of her and it's SO adorable! See which iconic women Chris compares Karrueche to in terms of her sex game, class and elegance.
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Chris Brown Admits He Was Sleeping With Rihanna & Karrueche Tran At Same Time
It's just as we've always suspected! Chris just shockingly confessed in a new interview with Power 105.1's 'The Breakfast Club' that at one point, he was having sex with Rihanna and Karrueche at the same time! Click to watch his jaw-dropping interview!
We can't believe our ears! Right before tweeting that he didn't want to be asked about Drake or Rihanna ever again, Chris Brown spilled some very intimate, never-before-heard details about his past sex life with ex RiRi and current girlfriend Karrueche Tran. If this was his last hurrah, he certainly went out with a bang — or as he would say, a "wam wam!"
Click here to read more
Chris Brown Admits He Wanted Kids With Rihanna — Watch
Have you ever wondered what Chris Brown's 'ultimate boom' would be? Yes, us either. But the singer revealed in an interview with Power 105.1's 'The Breakfast Club' just what that would be. Click to watch!
Chris Brown stopped by the New York radio station, Power 105.1's morning show on Feb. 23 to discuss a laundry list of topics. But the one that stood out most was when he discussed his relationship with ex, Rihanna. Especially because he admitted he wanted to get her pregnant!
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Rihanna Sings About Moving On In 'Towards The Sun' — About Chris Brown?
It's always a good day when Rihanna's new music hits the web. The sexy singer has treated us to her new song, 'Towards The Sun,' and we already love it! But we can't help but notice the lyrics. Is this song about ex, Chris Brown? Click to listen!
Rihanna, 27, is heating up the airwaves again. The hitmaker's new song, "Towards The Sun," surfaced online on Feb. 24 and it's phenomenal! Her lyrics state that she's been "burned" and is not "looking back" — could this be referring to her past relationship with Chris Brown?
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Rihanna & Leonardo DiCaprio Hooking Up: Why He Won't Commit To Her
Rihanna and Leo were super close for a hot second there but now it looks like their romance may be dying down, and it's all because Leo can't commit! HollywoodLife.com has the EXCLUSIVE scoop on why Leo isn't ready to settle down with RiRi!
Leonardo DiCaprio may have helped throw his rumored fling Rihanna an unforgettable 27th birthday party on Feb. 20, but that doesn't mean he'll be by her side when she turns 28! Here are the two key reasons why Leonardo doesn't want to make Rihanna his girlfriend.
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Chris Brown & Rihanna Texting: He Speaks Out About It
One of the worst things a guy in a relationship can do is text his ex, right?! Well, Chris Brown finally set the record straight and revealed if he and Rihanna are still communicating via text — find out the truth!
The talk on the town is that Chris Brown, 25, is not over Rihanna, 27, and still texts her constantly! He completely denied that he ever messages her during his Interview with Hot 97 on Feb. 20 — Chris even spilled the reason why he would NEVER text her!
Click here to read more
Chris Brown Supports Rihanna & Leonardo DiCaprio Romance — Watch
Believe it or not, Chris Brown is totally cool with Rihanna hooking up with Leonardo DiCaprio. Click inside to WATCH his new interview!
Chris Brown, 25, isn't upset to hear the rumors that his ex-girlfriend, Rihanna, 27, is romancing a major A-Lister. In fact, in a brand new interview that he did on her birthday, the rapper openly gives his ex props for hooking up with Leonardo DiCaprio, 40. Yes, really!
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Rihanna & Leonardo DiCaprio: The Sweet Way He Helped Celebrate Her Birthday
Riri is one lucky lady! Leo spoiled the singer on her birthday by helping throw a huge 27th birthday bash in her honor, according to a new report. Find out the sweet details here!
Rihanna rang in her 27th birthday on Feb. 20 with a ton of A-listers for a huge celebration — and she has Leonardo DiCaprio, 40, to thank! Riri's rumored hot fling reportedly helped throw her an unforgettable birthday bash which lasted until the wee hours in the morning.
Click here to read more
Chris Brown & Rihanna: Their Texts That Drive Karrueche Tran Wild
Chris and Rihanna just can't seem to quit each other completely. HollywoodLife.com has learned EXCLUSIVELY that they still text each other, much to Karrueche Tran's dismay. Here's the scoop.
They're living their own lives now, but Chris Brown, 25, and Rihanna, 27, still have a fondness for each other. After his reported sweet call to Rihanna on her birthday, HollywoodLife.com found out EXCLUSIVELY from a source that they still reach out to each other from time to time, and it leaves Karrueche Tran, 26, seething.
Click here to read more


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CLAYTON -- Talented young artists received recognition for their hard work at the annual Student Art Festival sponsored by the Woman's Club and Clayton Visual Arts at the Clayton Center last week.
Students from Corinth Holders High, Clayton High School, West Johnston High School, Clayton Middle School, and Archer Lodge Middle School, as well as home-schooled students, entered their art into the competition. Several students went home with ribbons, money, and big smiles Thursday night.
Just as her name was announced, eighth-grader Marcy Creech's jaw dropped, and her proud mother looked on as Creech went to receive her first place award. Creech won three awards for photography, including nods for a black and white photo, a digitally enhanced photo, and a color photo, the three photos she entered in the competition.


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Article brought to you by: Catholic Online (www.catholic.org)Condoms to be distributed freely at all Boston high schools
By Catholic Online (NEWS CONSORTIUM)
June 20th, 2013 Catholic Online (www.catholic.org) With little opposition, the Boston School Committee approved measure to provide prophylactics at all Boston high schools. A key feature in a new comprehensive health and wellness policy, the approval of condom distribution marks a highly dramatic shift in practice for the city's public schools system. LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - Only a limited number of high schools previously, which had health centers, could hand out condoms. Students will now be able to receive them at any of the approximately three dozen high schools either from a community health service partner, the Boston Public Health Commission or from appropriate staff.Students will also receive counseling about safe sex practices before obtaining the contraceptives. Parents will still have the right to exempt their children. City Councilor Ayanna applauded the decision. "I'm elated," Pressley said. Testifying during the meeting, she has long pushed for comprehensive sexual health education in all high schools and making condoms available to high school students. "It's a long time coming." None of the School Committee members addressed condom availability before the vote. The policy change had wide support from students, public health advocates, and educators, and generated little, if any, public opposition. "I've been working on this for 15 years," Barbara Huscher, a retired Boston public school health education director said. Donning a hat that looked like the tip of a condom after the vote and posing for pictures, Huscher noted that "They have the option to be safe now." The new policy replaces one adopted in the early 1990s, as the AIDS crisis gripped the nation. The decision appeared to be a compromise after repeated attempts through the years to make the contraceptives available in all high schools failed to win school board support. The issue at that time was highly volatile with the Archdiocese of Boston, and Mayor Raymond L. Flynn strongly opposed the measure. Newly elected Mayor Thomas M. Menino helped to get the compromise approved. In another decision, no opposition emerged on the issue of tightening background checks on employees, which the School Committee passed unanimously. The issue of condoms in schools has long been a flashpoint in the nation's ongoing battle over sexual morality. One voice in particular, Dr. Robert L. Simonds, founder of Citizens for Excellence in Education, is steadfastly opposed to the idea. "Sexologists and psycho-heresy mind manipulators (so-called experts) are not experts at all.They promote immorality instead of what could otherwise be good sex-education programs . Not only would they like to destroy families, but the entire human race, with such ideas - irrational, sick ideas that our schools often go along with.Remember, it strongly appears we are dealing with hard-line atheists, incapable of reason or morality," Simonds says. Article brought to you by: Catholic Online (www.catholic.org) |


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In epithelial cells, the tight junction (TJ) functions as a permeability barrier and is involved in cellular differentiation and proliferation. Although many TJ proteins have been characterized, little is known about the sequence of events and temporal regulation of TJ assembly in response to adhesion cues. We report here that the deubiquitinating enzyme USP9x has a critical function in TJ biogenesis by controlling the levels of the exchange factor for Arf6 (EFA6), a protein shown to facilitate TJ formation, during a narrow temporal window preceding the establishment of cell polarity. At steady state, EFA6 is constitutively ubiquitinated and turned over by the proteasome. However, at newly forming contacts, USP9x-mediated deubiquitination protects EFA6 from proteasomal degradation, leading to a transient increase in EFA6 levels. Consistent with this model, USP9x and EFA6 transiently co-localize at primordial epithelial junctions. Furthermore, knockdown of either EFA6 or USP9x impairs TJ biogenesis and EFA6 overexpression rescues TJ biogenesis in USP9x-knockdown cells. As the loss of cell polarity is a critical event in the metastatic spread of cancer, these findings may help to understand the pathology of human carcinomas.
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Robbie wrote:Propercharlie wrote:My Dad chose West Ham for me 40 years ago and he made a great choice. The proper way to play football is to attack with skill and intelligence and to show proper respect to your opponents, to yourself and to the game and its laws. That was Ron Greenwood's way and it should always be the West Ham way.
Rest in peace Mr West Ham.
Very well said that man!
Like he said! Ron Greenwood a real gentleman and football man. Proper respect surely a must. RIP Ron.


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Choosing a Lawyer
Buying or selling a home? Marital or family problems? Writing a will?
The South Carolina Bar knows it can be hard to find the right kind of lawyer to help you with your legal matters. That's why we have prepared this brief, but informative fact sheet to help you with your search.
A flip through the phone book will reveal a number of attorneys willing to assist you. The question is, which one will be right for you? Well, a good place to start is to ask yourself . . .
Do I need a lawyer who concentrates in a certain area of the law or a general practitioner?
How much am I willing to pay to resolve this matter?
Is it important that the lawyer I choose be located near my home or office?
Is it important that I like the lawyer I choose?
After you've asked yourself those questions, it's a good time to start looking for referrals. Ask your relatives and friends for the names of lawyers they recommend.
The South Carolina Bar Lawyer Referral Service can help you find the right kind of lawyer. The toll free lawyer referral service maintains a list of their members who are willing to consult and advise you at a discounted rate of $50 for the first 30 minute consultation. If additional legal service is needed, the fee is something for you and your lawyer to agree on. You may call the Lawyer Referral Service at 1-800-868-2284 (statewide) or (803) 799-7100 in Columbia and Lexington counties.
For criminal cases, each county in South Carolina has a Public Defenders Office that provides free legal services for those who are indigent and cannot afford a lawyer. For people who can't afford to pay in other matters, you may want to contact Legal Services. They can help with certain kinds of noncriminal cases.
Remember Lawyers and law firms are like hats they come in variety of shapes and sizes. Quality will come from the lawyer who best "fits" the needs of your particular case. You should feel confident about the lawyer's ability, before hiring him or her. Remember, you are looking for a lawyer, not a new friend, not Perry Mason, and no, not Ben Matlock.
Once you've picked a lawyer, there are a couple of things you should think about in preparation for your initial interview.
Think about your case or legal matter so that you will be prepared to answer the lawyer's questions.
Make note of the spelling of relevant names, dates, and other information that the lawyer may need.
Write down some basic questions for the lawyer. For example, "what is your experience in this area of the law?"
Gather any written materials that relate to your legal situation, such as traffic tickets, deeds and wills or letters from an opposing attorney.
Expect to discuss the entire legal matter, not just those parts that make you look good. Without the whole picture, your attorney cannot provide proper representation.
Some clients are too intimidated to ask their lawyers the following types of questions.
What result should I expect in this legal matter? Is there a good chance I can get what I want or am I wasting my money?
How long is it going to take to resolve this matter?
If I don't have enough money to pay your bill in full at the end of each month; could we set up a payment schedule?
Will I be billed for time we spend talking on the telephone? Does that rate include your staff and expenses? What exactly is billable time?
If there is something that you are wondering about, ask.
It is important for you and your lawyer to agree about what you will pay the lawyer and what services the lawyer will perform. This way, both of you will know what to expect from each other as you work together on your case.
Abraham Lincoln once emphasized the value of a lawyer's time when he said, "a lawyer's time and advice are his stock and trade." The basic ingredient in most fees charged by lawyers is the amount of time spent on a particular problem. In one important way, a lawyer's professional services differ from those of a doctor or a dentist: much of the work is accomplished when the client is not present.
Often clients are unaware that the document and the advice given in a few minutes are actually the products of many hours of work. When you engage the services of an attorney, you are really hiring an entire law office to work for you. The legal fee usually depends on the time involved in preparation of the matter, the difficulty of the matter, the documents or pleadings which must be drafted, the number of letters, phone calls and interviews, the research, and the number and length of court appearances.
In many cases your lawyer may require a payment before agreeing to undertake the work. Often a lawyer will agree to represent you on a contingency fee basis. A contingency fee means that the lawyer's fee is due only if a settlement or recovery is achieved; it is based on a percentage of the amount recovered, with the exception of certain expenses.
You should discuss the costs of legal services at your first interview with the lawyer and reach an agreement. Do not hesitate to discuss fees at any time during the handling of your legal matter. If you have questions regarding a bill, talk it over with your lawyer. You may not be aware of the extent of the lawyer's work on the case.
Although written fee agreements are not always required, it is helpful to have your fee agreement in writing. Ask your lawyer for a written statement of the fees and costs involved as well as any other costs you might incur as a result of this legal matter. When the legal matter is resolved, your lawyer should provide you with a written settlement sheet that shows the total amount you paid and what it covered, including the attorney's fee, other costs, any outstanding bills from physicians or hospitals, and any liens.
Here are a few suggestions from lawyers on how to keep your legal fees down.
When you go for your first interview, take any papers relating to the case. It's also a good idea to write down the names, addresses and phone numbers of all the persons involved as well as all the facts that you can recall which pertain to the case. Doing this yourself will cut down on the time your lawyer will have to spend in gathering information.
In your first meeting, it's important to make a full and honest disclosure to your lawyer of all the facts, good and bad. This is essential in making a determination about your case. Remember, your disclosures to your lawyer are confidential when not made in the presence of another person.
Don't allow your emotions to color the facts, try and be as accurate as you can. Brevity goes a long way in getting your money's worth, be as brief as possible with your phone calls. Actually, a good rule of thumb with phone calls is to avoid the unnecessary ones.
It's a good idea to decide in advance, as best you can, exactly what you want your lawyer to accomplish for you. Also take into consideration the financial advantages and disadvantages of a proposed legal action by discussing it with your lawyer. For example, would the court costs and legal fees be more than the amount of the bad debt you would like to recover?
The time for payment of legal fees depends on the type of legal service you wish rendered. Your lawyer may require you to pay a retainer before the lawyer begins work on the case. Many lawyers will bill you on a monthly basis.
If you want to put a legal fee or costs on a credit card, ask your lawyer whether he or she participates in a plan for one of the credit cards you hold and whether the particular charge qualifies. If you are not certain you will be able to pay promptly, talk it over with your lawyer. You should be able to reach an agreement.
Working closely with another can sometimes be difficult. Add to that the tension of being involved in a legal matter and you have the potential for any number of crossed signals and misunderstandings. In order to have a good working relationship with your lawyer, you'll want to remember to:
keep your lawyer informed of any new information that may be pertinent your legal matter; ask questions when there is something you don't understand; maintain a realistic view of the progress and outcome of your legal matter; and pay your bill.
Your lawyer is committed to treating you with respect and courtesy and to:
charge a reasonable fee and to explain in advance how that fee will be computed and billed;
return your telephone calls promptly;
and keep you informed and provide you with copies of important papers.
Most people who hire lawyers find that their lawyers are effective, honest and hardworking. By following some of these suggestions, and by communicating clearly and fully, you'll improve the possibility of having a positive experience with your lawyer.
This information was prepared to give you some general information on the law. It is not intended as legal advice about any particular problem. If you have questions about the law you should consult a lawyer. If you do not know a lawyer, you can call the South Carolina Bar Lawyer Referral Service weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. The number is 799-7100 in Richland or Lexington Counties, and 1-800-868-2284 from other parts of the state.


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Summary | Opening (114 comments) | Rebuttal (76 comments) | Closing (28 comments) | Post-debate (4 comments) | ||
20Tuesday July | 23Friday July | 27Tuesday July | 28Wednesday July | 30Friday July | ||
Latest updates | Statements | Statements | Guest | Guest | Statements | Decision |
Closing statements
If all parties directly affected by an activity are of age, consent to the activity knowing its likely effects, and haven't been misled by fraud or false claims, the activity ought to be legal.
The choice before us is not whether government "permits" social gambling … the choice is should our government actively own and promote predatory gambling.
With apologies to Raymond Carver, what do we talk about when we talk about gambling? What is it, fundamentally: the friendly game of poker around the kitchen table? The bartender who makes book for his regulars and runs a Super Bowl pool? Or a roomful of retirees, sallow in the neon light, feeding their pensions into slot machines, coin by sad little coin? And what do we talk about when we talk about legalising it: preventing ordinary people who want to take a flutter on a match from becoming criminals, or—as Spencer Bachus, one of the American Congress's staunchest opponents of online gambling, puts it—turning every computer terminal into a 24-7 casino.
Natasha Dow Schüll, one of our experts, takes a run at these questions by pointing out that "relatively harmless" forms of gambling are criminal, while slot machines, which are "designed to make sure that any player" bets until his money runs out, are legal and regulated in America. She charges, though, that such regulation serves the gambling industry more than players. Other countries' regulations offer the player a little more help: in Canada machines have to show the cash value of bets, rather than just abstract credits, and in Norway players can pre-commit the amount they will spend before they take their first spin. All laudable, to be sure, but they merely propose tweaks to an extant regime; the harms of prohibition examined by Radley Balko and his supporters remain unmentioned.
Peter Reynolds, another featured guest, claims that gambling websites offer far more scope for such player-friendly regulation. The problem, at least in America, is that online gambling remains illegal. A bill to change that is moving swiftly through Congress this week, but what its ultimate impact will be remains unclear. Meanwhile, polls still show that most Americans oppose making online gambling fully legal.
So again, what is the true face of gambling? The truth is it is all of the things mentioned above, which makes this debate so thorny. Which side you choose depends on which set of undesirable consequences turns your stomach least. But that's politics, and also policy—a game not of perfect, but of least worst. Side with Les Bernal, and you may keep people from spending money on lotteries and slots that they cannot afford to lose, but you would also criminalise the kitchen-table poker players. Side with Mr Balko, and you make it safe for kitchen-table poker players and bartenders taking friendly bets from their customers, but you would also shrug at social-security payments going into slot machines by the nickel. But this is the real world, not an ideal one, and those are the choices. Time to vote.
It is one thing for gambling opponents to argue that negative external effects caused by addiction are so harmful that giving government the power to limit the individual freedom to wager is justified. I do not agree, but it is at least a reasonable argument. In his rebuttal, Les Bernal stakes a much more absurd, downright Orwellian position: banning commercial gambling would expand our freedom.
"But the business model for casinos and lotteries only works if our government takes away the freedom of millions of Americans," Bernal writes. "By definition, someone who is an addict or someone who is in deep financial debt is not free."
Well, no. Someone who has become an addict or is in deep financial debt due to gambling is suffering the consequences his decisions. No one forced him to make those decisions. He is no different from people in debt from living a lifestyle beyond their means or speculating in high-risk real estate. You are free to walk out of a casino at any time. Scores of people do it every day, shirts still on their backs and savings intact.
Mr Bernal knows it would be unpopular to argue against personal freedom. So he is trying to change its definition. In Mr Bernal's world, freedom means having the government take bad decisions away from you. To borrow from (and slightly bastardise) a song by the great Kris Kristofferson, for Mr Bernal, freedom's just another word for nothing left to choose.
Our moderator asked if there was a role for government to shape the national character. I would submit that there is not. Public service announcements and publicly funded health research are harmless enough, but in this case "shaping the national character" means prohibitions on consensual behaviour that are backed by the use of force. That is far too invasive. Though we can all probably agree on a broad outline of what makes for "good character" I would imagine we would start to disagree pretty quickly as the conversation became more specific. I know Mr Bernal and I would certainly disagree. And while it may sound promising to give government the power to enforce good character while your favoured political party is in charge, you are likely to rethink the proposition once an election hands the government over to someone whose concept of good character is quite a bit different from yours.
Some of the commenters in this debate have argued that gambling is not a "victimless" crime, citing the effect a gambling addict's losses can have on his family, his employer and society at large. Mr Bernal goes the same route in opening his rebuttal with an anecdote about a woman who turned to robbing banks to support her gambling habit.
But of course millions of people patronise casinos each year without resorting to armed robbery to replenish their chips. Banning gambling because a seventh-grade teacher knocked over banks to feed her addiction makes about as much as sense as banning Jodie Foster from appearing in movies because John Hinckley Jr shot Ronald Reagan in an effort to impress her. We should not be passing laws in response to anecdotes.
But more broadly, any number of our day-to-day decisions can have indirect repercussions for lots of other people. If you are going to argue that we should prohibit gambling because problem gamblers might go into debt, causing hardship for their families, or requiring them to seek publicly funded social services or welfare, you could make similar arguments for banning everything from unprotected sex, to laying on the beach, to rock climbing, to investment banking, to pie. There are people who enjoy all of these things to excess, or with an insufficient appreciation of their risk. Some indirectly harm others or require publicly funded medical care or assistance as a result. But we do not talk about banning them. (At least not yet!)
Generally, if all parties directly affected by an activity are of age, consent to the activity knowing its likely effects, and have not been misled by fraud or false claims, the activity ought to be legal. Banning vices like gambling does not make them go away. It only makes them more difficult to monitor and regulate, and enforcing such prohibitions requires the particularly intrusive government powers I mentioned in my opening statement.
I play online poker (even though my government has banned it—imagine that!). I am not particularly good. But I continue to play and wager, well within my means, because I enjoy the game. It's entertainment. I am going to guess that Mr Bernal does not enjoy poker. Here is a good way for him to express his dislike of poker: don't play it. He is even free to educate people about what he believes to be the dangers and addictive properties of online gambling. Good on him for it. But merely refraining from activities he finds distasteful is not enough for Mr Bernal. He wants to impose his preferences on me, as well. I would not dream of advocating that Mr Bernal be jailed for refusing to play poker. I just ask that he extend the same courtesy to my enjoyment of the game.
Mr Bernal's peculiar attempt at lexicography aside, any notion of freedom in which the government has removed all of our "bad" choices is not freedom at all. Let us let people find happiness and entertainment where they please, so long as they are causing no direct, non-consensual harm to anyone else.
Watch video: Bury the Chains
In his recent book "False Economy" Alan Beattie shatters the common perception that the present state of countries and societies and economies was somehow predetermined. "Countries have choices," Mr Beattie writes, "and those choices have substantially determined whether they have succeeded or failed."
Today, one of the critical choices we face as a people is whether we will confront America's emerging national ethic of phony prosperity, living beyond our means, cutting corners and distrust. This Las Vegas ethic has come to permeate our society in large part because the same ethic, through its promotion of lotteries and casinos, has been the daily voice of government to most Americans for the past 30 years. "Give people a big incentive and they will generally react to it," Mr Beattie says.
The choice before us is not whether government "permits" social gambling like playing cards at the neighbours' house or buying a square in the Super Bowl office pool. The choice is should our government actively own and promote predatory gambling.
Predatory is the word that best portrays our government's practice of using gambling to prey on human weakness for profit in partnership with commercial gambling interests. "Harrah's has quietly conducted thousands of clinical-style trials to determine what gets people to gamble more," reported the Wall Street Journal about America's biggest casino operator in 2000. "Based on its findings, Harrah's has developed closely guarded marketing strategies tailored individually to the millions of low-rollers who make up its bread-and-butter business."
Harrah's makes 90% of its gambling profits from 10% of its visitors, most of whom come from these low rollers. No one describes "the new VIPs" better than Harrah's emulator Dave Jonas, CEO of Parx Casino, located just outside Philadelphia, who proudly says his profits come almost exclusively from local low-rollers using slot machines:
"When I was in Atlantic City, to have 12 to 15 trips (per year) out of customers, they were VIPs," Mr Jonas says. At Parx, "it's not uncommon for us to have 150 to 200 trips … That's three to four times a week, essentially".
"We have customers," Mr Jonas boasts, "who give us $25, $30 five times a week." It did not take much to lure them, beyond proximity, free valet parking and $50 comps.
The American government's current partnership with gambling interests is justified by some for at least three reasons.
First, if the government was not partnering with billion-dollar gambling interests like Harrah's all this would be happening illegally anyway, or so the reasoning goes. Virtually no one would disagree that some forms of predatory gambling would occur underground. Yet only the uninformed and the ignorant can argue that organised crime would be running almost 900 casinos across America, overseeing 800,000 electronic gambling machines and pushing instant lottery scratch tickets up to $50 in tens of thousands of locations in cities and towns across the country, all backed by billions of dollars of advertising on TV, radio and billboards alongside state-of-the-art marketing technology.
Second, they argue, the prohibition of alcohol was a failure. Yet most will agree that drinking a glass of wine or a can of beer is far different from buying a $20 lottery scratch ticket or playing a slot machine. No sip of a Bass ale has ever offered the false promise of life-changing jackpots. One out of five Americans does not think the best way to achieve long-term economic security is to drink Budweiser. Most telling of all, the vineyard owner drinks his own wine—predatory gambling is the only product or service where most of the people who own it do not use it themselves.
Third, some claim that casinos and lotteries are no different from the stockmarket. While there may be risk associated with buying shares in the traditional stockmarket, that is where the analogy ends. When an individual buys a stock, he is buying a piece of a company. An applicant for a bank loan can put down $10,000 worth of stock certificates as collateral, but try putting $10,000 worth of lottery tickets on the table instead and see if the bank makes the loan.
Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Samuelson best summarised why predatory gambling milks existing wealth rather than creates new wealth: "(Gambling) involves simply sterile transfers of money or goods between individuals, creating no new money or goods. Although it creates no output, gambling does nevertheless absorb time and resources. When pursued beyond the limits of recreation, where the main purpose after all is to kill time, gambling subtracts from the national income."
Mr Beattie concludes his book with an exhortation: "The experience of history should lead us to hope and strive to make the world better, not to despair and resign ourselves to fate."
The experience of human history has taught us one more thing: to love your neighbour like yourself. The business of predatory gambling is all about loving yourself more than your neighbour.
Comments from the floor
Pyrodoug wrote:
Dear Sir,
No legal restrictions is too broad. Even the advocate defending the motion begins his closing statement with the word "if" and then lists restrictions that he believes are important. That alone is enough evidence to vote against no restrictions at all.
What restrictions there should be on gambling is a better question. None is clearly the wrong answer.
Dr. Douglas Rice
RoloGalick wrote:
Dear Sir, in an affluent society like ours, coexist 2 categories of people. Those who can afford to lose some bugs without negative consequences to the well being of their families and those who cannot. In the first group, gambling may be considered as good an entertainment as sports, cinema, theatre, just for naming a few amusing activities. For the rest of the society, betting is, in a very ample sense, tremendously dangerous. So I think governments should have an active regulating role, with a strong accent put on restricting new forms of betting, and avoiding to be part of a dubious business. Rologal
VMMolotov wrote:
Dear Sir,
I'd also like to add to commenters that the moderator's opening statement cleared up what is meant by the proposition. The moderator explicitly said that proposition is defending legalising and regulating gambling, while the opposition is defending prohibiting gambling.
VMMolotov wrote:
Dear Sir,
Mr. Bernal has consistently and adamantly failed to actually address the motion. When he talks about how status quo with state supported lotteries is terrible, everyone agrees. The question is not whether state supported lotteries are terrible, but what to do about all gambling, most of which is criminal right now in the US. And when Mr. Bernal singles out one argument, one type of gambling amidst the entirety of what needs to be addressed, and then fails to address Mr. Balko's opening remarks at all, Mr. Bernal must lose.
Tornar wrote:
Dear Sir,
The proposition has a more eloquent, rhetoric touch than its opposition. I did not quite get the point Mr. Bernal trying to make: are we talking about gambling or predatory gambling?
Gamble creates value as much as a free willed market place. For example, people hold different expectations about the future oil price; subsequently, they buy or sell. In a gamble, one expect a spade A, the other expect a heart Q, they wager. The consequence creates a winner and loser. Gamble may not facilitate best usage of goods like market does; But transferring cash in a casino does no more evil than transferring in a market.
I certainly don't like a Casino in my neighborhood with or without regulation; I don't like drinking beer, but I shouldn't stop other drinking it, do I?
And plus, I still like to see the losers protected by police from loan sharks.
So reluctantly, I vote yes.
Nom Deplume wrote:
I must disagree with the base precept. Like many other 'adult only' activities I strongly feel that a certain distance from a school should be legally mandated. Gambling via the Internet also requires at a minimum strong regulation around 'age of player' features. I also think there needs to be at least some restrictions around the amount of money people are allowed to gamble on a 'single throw of the dice'.
onsakia wrote:
Dear Sir,
I disagree with the proposition since any legitimate business including gambling should be regulated. That's the precise reason of using the word 'legitimate business' - made 'legal' through legislation. Requirements like age limit cannot be ignored in risky businesses like gambling. My honest take is that we can reduce the number of regulations but NOT entirely eliminate any legislation on any business including gambling.
Amir Dewani wrote:
Dear Sir,ethically speaking somewhere some people name the doing of certain things like gambling, usury and alcoholism as vices or even sins. And psychologically speaking, the inclusion of that act in such category makes it more attractive. Our young generation would be served better if we just take a pause to think about the possible harm that could be caused by making online gambling free-for-all.Law makers have also the responsibility to put the proposal at severe scrutiny before they vote on such a proposal. This is not only a religious or ethical matter about the seven sins,it is our moral duty to look before we leap in this direction.
jsmog wrote:
Dear Sir,
While I gamble myself, I cannot agree with a proposition that removes ALL restrictions on gambling; indeed, I can think of few things that people do that can be left totally uncontrolled. There should be some attempt not to control gambling in general, but the perpetuation of it as a business model, whether that be regulating casinos, racetracks, sports books, stock brokers, futures exchanges, insurance companies etc. They are all doing the same thing -- attempting to profit from other people's collective needs, fears or feeling -- rather than providing any service, and they need to be regulated as such. This need not be onerous, such as banning it completely, or as the proposer rather dramatically argued, accidentally killing a participant.
peridox wrote:
Dear Sir,
To borrow from another reader, the motion is very poorly worded. As it is, I am dissatisfied with both sides of the argument, especially Bernal's "government should do everything for you." I am also very much against the libertarian ethic that Balko is presenting.
I think Bernal is doing liberals an injustice in his puritanical insistence that gambling is so baddd for you (though it's understandable, as he has seen more cases of predatory gambling than the average person).
In the end, I still voted NO, but only because I consider regulation a restriction.
Moderator, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE address this issue at the conclusion of this debate.
I do believe MOST READERS want LEGAL BUT (HEAVILY?) REGULATED gambling. The wording of "no restrictions" is an extreme, and since I want moderation, I am forced to choose NO, despite my disappointment in Bernal's argument.
CalNativeTruth wrote:
Dear Sir,
No legal restrictions on gambling? Be careful what you wish for. Even Las Vegas has problems with illegal gambling and loan sharks. We have to be our brother's keeper. If we aren't the whole fabric of society will tear apart, especially if we don't watch out for the weakest and most vulnerable amongst us.
Gambling is taking it's toll on senior citizens now. When they lose their life's savings, they have no way of regaining it. For those of you who are so glib about gambling and how enjoyable it is, maybe when mom or dad or granma loses everything they have, you'll get the message.
Stop Predatory Gambling isn't about stopping gambling all together. It's about stopping our governmental bodies from using gambling to replace lost tax revenue, getting them out of the gambling business. It's the moral thing to do, for those of you who still care about such things. I include my own tribal government, because our casino has torn our tribe apart, with whole families being kicked out of our tribe so that a few families can get all the casino money. It's killing our culture. Drug use is up on the Rez, parents too hung over to frive their kids to school so they call a limo. That's right. We get over $20,000 per adult per month. Most people are just partying with it, and very few are thinking about where the kids are going to go for college. It's sad and sick.
Some of you who have written here sound like you're whistling in the dark. I think a safe bet would be that more than a few of you who write to defend your gambling habits know you are circling the drain. It's called denial. It's what addicts do.
Snookums2 wrote:
Dear Sir,
The government should not promote gambling in any shape or form. Our government needs to promote family values not gambling....
Zerj wrote:
I'd agree the question is poorly worded but I would also argue that there is actually at least a difference in connotation between restriction and regulation. At the very least the majority does seem to prefer less restrictions.
You say that both experts expressed there should be fewer restrictions on gambling. I haven't heard that from Les at all. In fact his conclusion was the first time I saw him mention "social gambling".
As it is he has been coming off as a moral purist who wants to ban all gambling. The current system of law has all social/casual gambling as illegal for most of the country and not once has Mr. Bernal mentioned this as something he would change. Had he made this distinction clearly, I wouldn't be surprised to see the result of this motion differ.
gregors wrote:
Dear Sir,
Having voted yes, my only doubt is whether the ensuing wave of legal casinos will make it even easier to launder illegal money. The question may be a bit naive, since other financial institutions already seem to be quite good at it.
sensiblesam wrote:
Dear Sir,
This debate has been ill-framed from the start, to the detriment of the nuances than have been consistently expressed by debators, experts, and audience participants. If you read their comments, the overwhelming majority believes that gambling should be LEGALIZED AND REGULATED. The two expert commentators both voice this majority opinion. However, the opposite position is coming out ahead in the polls, which falsely indicate that the majority believes there should be "no legal restrictions" on gambling.
Why? Partly because Reason magazine (edited by debator Balko) has put out a call for its readership to vote "yes" on the motion. But more importantly, because the motion itself is vague and confusing, leaving many voters to interpret "legal restrictions" to mean "prohibition" rather than "regulation of some sort." Some have explicitly said: "I vote yes on the motion because I think gambling should legalized AND REGULATED rather than BANNED." Actually, if they feel that way, they should have voted "no," because regulation IS a form of "legal restriction"!
The confusion between restriction and prohibition is a bad flaw in the framing of the motion at stake in this debate, and the moderator should address this flaw in his final determination and comments. As it now stands, the results of this debate will not tell us anything about what participating debators, experts, and commentators really believe.
( Note that even Les Bernal, from the "con" side, does not claim that ALL gambling should be prohibited, as he quite clearly states: "The choice before us is not whether government "permits" social gambling like playing cards over the neighbors' house or buying a square in the Super Bowl office pool. The choice is should our government actively own and promote predatory gambling." The moderator overrides all these nuances and mischaracterizes Bernal's position when he writes: "Side with Les Bernal, and you may keep people from spending money on lotteries and slots that they can't afford to lose, but you would also criminalise the kitchen-table poker players.")
Sean L. wrote:
Dear Mr. Bernal,
Re your paragraph 26: Considering how trivially easy it is to obtain illegal drugs, despite the $billions spent on enforcing prohibition, I would suggest that in an illegal gambling market, organized crime would run 9,000 casinos across America, overseeing 8,000,000 electronic gambling machines and pushing instant lottery scratch tickets up to $500 in hundreds of thousands of locations in cities and towns across the country, all backed by tens of billions of dollars going to ruthless criminals.
Legalizing gambling has changed the penalty for not paying a gambling debt from a broken leg to a dinged credit score. Shall we go back to the way it was?
Zerj wrote:
Dear Sir,
"Broadly, a license to gamble should require proof of zero externalities. That is, the applicant (1) has no dependents and (2) credibly and permanently disclaims all charitable and public assistance. Good luck with number 2. To support the motion requires a naive libertarian mindset, a willful pretense that each man is an island.
I think you have the same narrow mindset of Mr Bernal here. In your view it seems ALL activities which may eventually have a societal cost should be either banned, or its users completely shunned.
I'm sure there are lots of people who lost thier jobs because they couldn't get away from their World of Warcraft character. Should video games be illegal as well? I've been known to play the occasional game on my PC should I have to sign a waiver that I will never take unemployment benefits? Is that fair even though I don't let this affect my job performance?
Would you sign the same waiver before Sunbathing (skin cancer)? Eating an extra slice of american apple pie (heart disease/obesity)?
I certainly don't like paying for other peoples mistakes but the 'against' position in this debate has completely failed to show the community costs are greater than any other activity. Certainly if there are costs they are due to a small subset of the population. Why is this activity be deemed more inappropriate than any other? Just because it costs money? Well so does most other hobbies. Personally I would lose more money in a night of drinking at a bar than I would gambling.
MatthewPetersen wrote:
Dear Sir,
Broadly, a license to gamble should require proof of zero externalities. That is, the applicant (1) has no dependents and (2) credibly and permanently disclaims all charitable and public assistance. Good luck with number 2. To support the motion requires a naive libertarian mindset, a willful pretense that each man is an island.
Wowbagger the Infinitely Prolonged wrote:
Dear Sir,
Has anyone noticed that Mr. Bernal didn't argue against legal gambling in his closing statement? He just argues against government promotion of gambling. Perhaps Mr. Bernal has forgotten that legalizing something is not the same thing as promoting or supporting it.
SovereignGFC wrote:
Dear Sir,
From the perspective of liberty alone (including the freedom to make stupid decisions), the only restriction on gambling should be age-based, as we have on driving, voting and drinking.
The solution to this problem isn't regulation--it's education! People need to learn to gamble responsibly. The poorest Americans also stereotypically consume more beer than wealthier people and often suffer for it just as they do when they gamble. Does this mean we impose social regulations on alcohol? No.


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Prayer Circles
Read Prayers. |
CMorrison64 8/13/2005 19:10 |
Sending Love and Prayers Your way that you are blessed with a healthy newborn mid April. |
roaming2736 3/30/2006 03:51 |
Dear Lord, I do not know Gail Walker's current situation but You do. Please bless her with a healthy baby/babies. Please protect Gail and her baby/babies from harm. Pour out Your blessings on this family. Bless her relationship with her husband, strengthen their bond. Thank you Lord. I pray this in Jesus' name, amen. |
roaming2736 3/30/2006 03:53 |
Wow, the baby is nearly due - I hope that everything is going well. All the best to Gail and her hubby. |
Has problems James J 02/12/2008
My Uncle Dennis Worthington 02/12/2008
My marriage Kat Mounce 02/12/2008
A good friends mother, who has cancer everyone who needs prayer universal 02/12/2008
Pray for Michelle and Carlos N. 07/08/2008
"This prayer is to help us sell our home."
Pray for Donald H. 07/07/2008
"The love of my life has cancer."
Pray for Amanda B. 07/06/2008
"Please pray for my daughter and her unborn child."
Pray for Janice A. 07/05/2008
"One of my most favorite people in the whole world needs your prayers today. Please spread this and include Janice in your daily prayer."
Sign up to receive a daily feed of the prayer circles that need your prayers the most, delivered directly to your Beliefnet community profile. Sign up now! Not a member yet? Register here.


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Campaign Finance Database
Updated: October 12, 2014
Welcome to Wisconsin's premier searchable computer database of campaign contributors to candidates for state office in Wisconsin. Regularly updated with financial support from MapLight, this database includes records of contributions of $100 or more from individuals to candidates for the Wisconsin Legislature as well as governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, state school superintendent and state Supreme Court justices.The contributor records in this database generally date back to 1993, although in limited cases contributions dating as far back as 1989 are included. State law only requires donors who give more than $100 to disclose their occupation and employer. Please note that, in general, contributions returned by the candidates are excluded from search results.
You have two options when searching for individual contributors. Use the simple search below to search by contributor, employer, city or candidate or use the advanced search to search by more varied criteria.
Contributions from political action committees (PACs) can be found elsewhere on our website.
Recent Updates
Updated through July 28, 2014 for the two Democratic legislative campaign committees and all but one constitutional office and five legislative candidates in the fall election. Independent candidates are not required to file the pre-primary report covering activity through July 28. Added November 3, 2014: Individual contributor data for David Bowen, Democratic candidate in the 10th Assemby District, is also missing from the searchable database. His original report showed no contributions between July 1 and July 28. An amendment filed after we collected his data for that period and which we only discovered while collecting the most recent campaign data, reported nearly $5,000 such contributions. Contributions of more than $100 from this period can be viewed here along with contributions from the complete election cycle. PAC contributions during that period can now be found in the PAC database.
Returned contributions have been removed.


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If you were reading the previous post about getting Ebay on your O2 phone, and were wondering which phone you should go for, perhaps we can tempt you with the O2 Ice, madam?
It's a 3G candybar phone, with a 1.3 megapixel camera, Bluetooth and 32MB of internal memory for the in-built MP3 player. And since it's 3G, you can make video calls – which as we've established, is not the killer app mobile folks might have hoped, but might amuse you for a few minutes on the bus.
It's available from September for £100 on pre-pay.
Product page: O2
By Susi Weaser | August 24th, 2006


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Home > Events
Sioux Falls, SD
Free national, regional, and local concerts. Pro Rodeo August 9 and 10. Explore unique food and commercial vendors. Livestock and horse shows for regional families to participate. Interact with magic and family shows. Static and live art, cooking, and baking contests for the novice, professional, and children. Thrilling carnival rides for the family. Special events to celebrate the diamond jubilee!
Event Dates Aug 01 - 10, 2014
Hoursnoon to midnight
Driving Instructions: Enter your address to get directions to Sioux Empire Fair:
Add to My Calendar
100 N Lyon Blvd.W.H. Lyon FairgroundsSioux Falls, SD
Jen DevineSioux Empire Fair Association
General: 7Adult: 7Children: 2
Art Show/ExhibitEducational/ScienceExposition/Tradeshow


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Survey: Last walled garden will wither by 2012
The walled garden's days are numbered. According to a new Deloitte survey of wireless industry executives, the closed business models for delivering mobile content and applications will fade away in the next three years and be replaced by open mobile content business models. In fact, most of those executives feel the future of their service provider businesses depends on completing that transition. more


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ATLANTA, Ga. (June 14, 2011)—Three Piedmont Healthcare hospitals ranked the top three in patient satisfaction results among hospitals within a 50-mile radius of Atlanta according to the most recently released, publicly-reported HCAHPS (Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems) survey. During the survey time period, July 2009 through July 2010, Piedmont Hospital once again ranked first in metro Atlanta, while Piedmont Fayette Hospital and Piedmont Mountainside Hospital placed second and third respectively.
When asked to rate the overall quality of care during their hospital stay on a scale of zero to 10, with 10 being the best, 81 percent of Piedmont Hospital patients responded with a nine or 10, which is 14 percent higher than both the national and state average of 67 percent. Piedmont Fayette Hospital had 80 percent, while Piedmont Mountainside Hospital had 78 percent of patients reporting favorable marks.
In addition, Piedmont Newnan Hospital is showing improvement. Piedmont Newnan moved from 41 percent in July 2007 to June 2008 (its first year as part of the Piedmont Healthcare system) to 57 percent in the most recent July 2009 to July 2010 data. And, not-yet-released data for September 2010 to December 2010 has PNH above 70 percent.
"We are gratified to know that patients are happy with the care they are receiving at our hospitals, especially knowing they have many choices for healthcare in greater Atlanta," said R. Timothy Stack, president and CEO of Piedmont Healthcare. "This snapshot of data validates that staff at our hospitals are not only providing world-class healthcare, but are doing so with respect and care for our patients."
HCAHPS is a standardized survey that reflects a patient's perspective of hospital care, and data is posted quarterly on the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare website at hospitalcompare.hhs.gov. For more information on Piedmont Healthcare, visit piedmont.org.


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New local Mandopop singer Nick Yeo wants his music to win father's approval
Published on Feb 15, 2013 6:30 PM
New local singer-songwriter Nick Yeo's profile was heightened after two of his songs were used in last year's Channel 8 drama Game Plan.
His label, Warner Music, had passed the songs, Able and Key Words, to the drama producers, who had felt that they were suitable for the show.
"That drama really helped me to start a local fanbase here in Singapore," he says.
Those songs are now found on his debut recording, the EP Actually Love, which has just been released.
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At six-foot-two, 228 pounds, Phoenix Coyotes captain Shane Doan would bring an intangible to the Toronto Maple Leafs' offense that is unheard of; his ability to play physically.
The Halkirk, Alberta native is known for his aggressive, physical, in your face type of hockey. He isn't afraid to drop the gloves, or even agitate. Along with that, he has offensive awareness on the ice and the ability to put up points. While also adding to the offensive game of the team, Doan also exemplifies strong defensive play with and without the puck. On a team coached by Randy Carlyle, this type of player would be extremely valuable.
Every unrestricted free agent comes at a cost. With such a dull crop of UFAs available come July 1, it isn't a stretch to believe that Doan will cash in. It also wouldn't be a stretch to believe Shane is looking to sign a deal with a potential Stanley Cup contender. While he still has the ability to play at a high level, Doan likely knows he only has a few seasons left to try to win a championship.
At the end of the day, these things should not stop the Toronto Maple Leafs from making an offer. Although many might say he doesn't fit into the core considering his age, I would disagree.
Every young team could use a veteran or two. Having a leader on and off the ice will only benefit young players' careers. Who better than Doan, a former King Clancy Memorial Trophy winner, awarded to the player who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice?
The addition of Doan into the lineup would likely also make a forward or two expendable. One of Clarke MacArthur or Nikolai Kulemin could likely be had by trade if Doan was signed. Both could be available depending on the Maple Leafs' view of how well Nazem Kadri and Matt Frattin are progressing.
Depending on how contract conversations with Kulemin go, the restricted free agent could be moved anyway. Scoring at least 50 points in his last nine seasons, the offensive output from Nikolai Kulemin or Clarke MacArthur would likely not be missed much. This would allow Brian Burke and company to look for a deal to acquire a top-four shut down defenceman, who is needed in order for this team to be successful in the short- and long-term.
The acquisition of Doan seems unlikely due to the number or suitors likely to offer on his services. However, there is no hurt in making an attempt to acquire a valuable asset. Burke has said many times before that he wants to add size into the forward group this off-season, and adding Shane Doan does that.