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Sofa came freight nearly fully assembled (just legs to add) it's a firm seat but not uncomfortable and looks great! Really surprised at how good the quality is for something affordable. Also NO odd smells (like i've experience from "low cost" furniture).. out of the box and right into the livingroom!
When I first purchased this couch I was overjoyed with looks and style. I had been searching for a Chesterfield couch that was fabric, and I had seen some places that use this as an everyday couch. That it is not, if you are looking for a pretty couch no one is allowed to sit on this fits the bill. However, after having the couch for 5 months, mind you it's only my boyfriend and myself who sit on this couch; no heavy traffic, the couch creaks and is cushions seem to be going flat. I'm almost afraid of sitting on this couch and try to avoid it if we can. Hopefully the warranty plan will get me a replacement that will just sit there and look pretty, but for $ bucks, I regret the purchase of just a pretty couch.
Read the title - although it said linen I just assumed that this material was more velvety. It is linen like grey jeans but softer material than denim. It is still very beautiful. I look at it everytime I walk by. Not as soft where you can sink into it which may be good to avoid overuse.
We do love the new sofa, but the fabric in real life is sort of like a denim that has been stone washed, just as the title suggests. I would have preferred it to be a softer fabric instead of a flat "denim" feel. I suppose it is nice to have the formal lines of the couch with a more casual fabric if that look suits you. Overall, it's a beautiful sofa for the price.
So so so cute! Very stylish and firm! Love the tufts and the way the the sides and back wrap around :) the nail head detailing is beautiful too! When I was reading the reviews before I ordered one said the fabric looks a lot like grey denim. I would totally agree, it's not as thick as denim, but grey denim is the look it resembles.
I have two words...Love It! I'd been looking for a Chesterfield style sofa for months. I wanted a velvet gray one with very deep tufting and nailhead trim (my two favorite design elements). After looking at dozens of websites and pictures I had almost given up on the posibiility of finding one that was under $2000.00. I couldn't believe it when I saw it on overstock. I shop this site weekly and had checked here several times beforewith no success. As for the comfort level, I can't really speak to that. I have the couch in my formal living room that no one ever sits in. It's definitely not the type of piece that you sit and watch tv in every day. The look is very tailored and I think they couldn't make it soft in order to achieve that. But then again I never sit on it so maybe over time it might loosen up. I do think this is more looks than comfort however.
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Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs
"be for ever a sovereign democratic and independent State founded upon the principles of liberty and justice and ever seeking the welfare and happiness of its people and the maintenance of a just peace among all nations"
IDEAS is Malaysia's first think-tank dedicated to promoting market-based solutions to public policy challenges. We are an independent not-for-profit organisation. As a cross-partisan think tank, we work across the political spectrum. Our purpose is to advance market-based principles, and we are not bound by party politics, race or religion.
Our mission is to improve the level of understanding and acceptance of public policies based on the principles of rule of law, limited government, free markets and free individuals.
We achieve this mission through:
- Research
- Publication of reports and books
- Seminars, discussions and short courses
- Briefings for federal and state politicians and policy-makers from across the political divide
- Media engagements
IDEAS was officially launched on 8 February 2010, in conjunction with Almarhum Tunku Abdul Rahman's 107th birthday, by YBM Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah at Memorial Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra, Kuala Lumpur, in an event graced by three generations of Almarhum Tunku's family members. (selected press coverage: The Star, The Edge and The Malaysian Insider)
Our commitment to quality has received international recognition. On 21 January 2013, IDEAS was ranked as the 5th best new think tank globally and the best new think tank in Asia in a survey of more than 6500 think tanks in 169 countries by the University of Pennsylvania's Think Tanks and Civil Societies Program.
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subset: commoncrawl


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Alunmi Spotlight: Randy Paris, 2011
What are you doing today (professionally) and how did studying Religion prepare you for this?
I'm a Confidential Assistant at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, where I help a team focused on leveraging science, technology, and innovation for the public good. This includes work on everything from enhancing education delivery, to helping small business grow, to expanding human capacity in space.
Studying religion at Wake helped me succeed because it showed me the value of expanding my intellectual horizons – exploring tough questions, stretching my brain, and building empathy.
In your opinion, what are the benefits of studying Religion?
The Religion Department at Wake is an environment where students are freed from a lot of the strings that make other departments feel more like work than play. In the Religion Department, there's much more space to dive into your passion – to grow how you'd like to grow.
What advice do you have for current Religion students?
Take Ritual studies. Explore Dr. Boyd's Religion & Public Engagement program and be sure to read "Making Justice Our Business."
How have other areas of your life been shaped by studying Religion?
The word religion utterly fails to encapsulate the full value of the intellectual experience offered by the department. I use what I learned in religion every day to help be a smarter individual, stronger professional, and better person.
Congratulations to Dr. Lucas Johnston. He was awarded The Ollen R. Nalley Family Faculty Fellowship.
Congratulations to Dr. Lynn Neal for receiving a Teaching Innovation Award through the Teaching and Learning Center.
Alumni Spotlight: Sarah Reimers, 2009
UPDATE: Sarah has received the Shaffer Fellowship from Notre Dame Law School to work for the Colorado Legal Services Department in their anti-human trafficking and U-Visa projects for the two years following her graduation in May, 2014.
What are you doing today (professionally) and how did studying Religion prepare you for this?
I am currently in my third year at the University of Notre Dame Law School. I plan to practice immigration law upon graduation in the spring. Though I have always had an interest in studying the law, my degree in Religion, in part, led me to study immigration law at Notre Dame Law.
In your opinion, what are the benefits of studying Religion?
Studying religion prepared me for law school by teaching me necessary analytical research and writing skills. Law school requires careful attention to detail and reasoning, also required in a major in Religion.
What advice do you have for current Religion students?
I have two pieces of advice. The first is to take as many courses as possible; even in areas you may not think you are interested. The professors in the religion departments are all experts in their field and they are truly able to provide valuable unique insights into their areas. Though I went into the religion major thinking I wanted to focus on East Asian religions, I ended up with a fascination of religion in America and focused the majority of my time on classes in that area.
The second is to write as much as possible. If you plan to return to academia in any discipline, the benefit of having carefully honed research and writing skills are invaluable. Writing an honors thesis my senior year was one of the most valuable lessons I learned at Wake Forest. It taught me the necessity of hard work, diligence, and attention to detail in order to get results. The professors I worked with both guided and mentored me, but also encouraged me to do the majority of the work independently. Take advantage of the opportunity to write a thesis.
How have other areas of your life been shaped by studying Religion?
Studying religion has given me a desire to travel and learn about new places, while also making me more self-aware about the religious traditions in which I was brought up. It was eye opening to learn about the Protestant religion from a removed, academic standpoint.
Studying religion both helped to open my worldview by studying different religious traditions, but also gave me a greater insight into various cultures. I studied abroad in Siem Reap, Cambodia after my sophomore year at Wake Forest. While there, I learned about the Buddhist religion, which I continued to learn about in various classes at Wake. After graduation in 2009, I moved to Cambodia and lived there while working for a human rights organization before coming back to law school. I found that I was better able to acclimate to the culture because of my previous studies. Religion is an integral part of many societies, and having a greater understanding and appreciation of these religious traditions helped me be a more respectful guest in the country.


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25 Afghan Patterns from Red Heart Yarn
Bonus: Get our newsletter & special offers for free. We will not share or sell your email address. View our Privacy Policy
Shells and Double Crochets Baby Afghan
By: Roseanna Beck
The Shells and Double Crochets Baby Afghan from Roseanna Beck is another free crochet afghan pattern to make for a special new baby.
- 330 yds. White Red Heart 4-ply yarn (A)
- 290 yds. Maize (Yellow) Red Heart 4-ply yarn (B)
- 290 yds. Light Peach Red Hearat 4-ply yarn (C)
- H and I crochet hooks or size needed for guage
SIZE: 37" x 37"
GUAGE: With H hook – 4 rows = 3"
Sh, dc, Sh = 3"
Chain (ch), Single Crochet (sc), Double Crochet (dc)
Special Stitch: Shell (Sh) – 2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc
Row 1 – With A and H hook ch 129, Sh in 6th ch from hook, *skip 2 ch, dc in next ch, skip 2 ch,
Sh in next ch, rep from * across ending skip 2 ch, dc in last ch, ch 3 and turn.
Row 2 - *Sh in ch 1 sp of Sh, dc in dc, rep from * across, dc in last dc, fasten off and turn.
Rep Row 2 in a 2-row color pattern:
A, B, C 8 times (48 rows)
With A and I hook starting at top edge right corner (3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc) in first dc, *sc in ch 1 sp of
Sh, skip 2 dc, Sh in next dc, skip 2 dc, rep from * across ending (3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc) in last dc, work along side edge *sc in dc, Sh in next dc, rep from * across ending (3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc) in l st ch st of bottom edge, work along bottom edge *sc in ch below Sh, Sh in ch below dc, rep from * across ending (3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc) in last ch, work along side edge as for opposite side edge, join to beg dc and fasten off.
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For The Golden Cabinet, the town mansion of the former Antwerp mayor and arts patron Nicolaas Rockox (1560-1640) has been transformed into an opulent art cabinet containing showpieces from the collection of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp as well as the core collection of the Rockox House Museum. The exhibition offers visitors an impression of a private art collection in Antwerp's Golden Age.
Stroll through the rooms of The Golden Cabinet with your smartphone or tablet, and gain quick and easy access to information about all the items on show. Zoom in for close-up views of paintings and sculptures. Select your favourite pieces before, during or after your visit and compile your own private collection, just like Nicolaas Rockox did throughout his life.
If you launch the webapp from a pc or laptop at home, you can arrange your favourite paintings and objects in your personal art cabinet using a picture of your own living room, dining room or even bathroom. There are attractive monthly prizes to be won for the best cabinets.
Shared art rooms


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More reviews by xzombiecourtneyx
I was really excited to get this cute lip gloss for the longest time and it totally held up to my expectations. I wanted a lip gloss that would be clear but would also taste good since I hate bad tasting lip gloss. It tasted fruity and I love wearing it every now and then. It's also, like I said, SUPER cute. While each color in the tube doesn't show up differently on your lips, I didn't really care. I just wanted something that looked cute to be honest. It is a great clear lip gloss if you don't like colors like me. I don't wear a ton of colors because they sometimes show up too intense on me. I think this lip gloss would especially be cute for little girls as well since little girls like lip gloss like this. But anyway, I highly recommend this because it tastes great and it's cool looking!
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
Bought this gloss in Sugar Pie. The formula is great and it has a pretty gold shimmer. Unfortunately, i'm taking two lippies off because the smell and taste was pretty bad, like plastic or medicine.
I saw this at Walgreens today, and what caught my eye immediately was the fact that it was rainbow colored. Literally! It's in a squeeze tube, about the size of Victoria's Secret lip glosses. Actually, I would have confused the two if I hadn't have been in Walgreens. The cap is bright silver and it's kind of the nice heavier duty plastic squeeze tube with shiny silver writing. I got this in rainbow sherbet flavored. The gloss is multi-colored, it starts out light pink, and then goes to peach, then yellow, then lime green, then turquoise, and then finally purple. It goes on fairly clear with just a hint of tint, and the consistency is very nice, jelly-like with just a little bit of stickiness (not overwhelmingly sticky, just enough to keep it on for a while.) It's very moisturizing as well. This gloss comes in three flavors, Rainbow Sherbet, Strawberry something, and creamsicle. All are rainbow colored, but the rainbow sherbet had the nicest colors mixed in. I've posted a pic for you to see. For $2.49 you can't beat this gloss!!
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No


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Congressmen push for fishing industry disaster relief
Written by Staff Reports Monday, December 24, 2012 12:00 pm
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In the wake of Superstorm Sandy, the fishing resources of New Jersey and New York were declared to be disaster areas, but three New Jersey congressmen say that doesn't go far enough to help local fishing businesses which were severely damaged or destroyed.
Congressman Frank LoBiondo (NJ-02), Congressman Jon Runyan (NJ-03), and Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-04) recently sent a letter to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies to request funding specifically for fisheries to be included in the Hurricane Sandy supplemental appropriations bill. If these areas are not included, they would not be eligible for disaster relief.
"New Jersey's fishing industry is one of the drivers of our regional economy and a staple in coastal communities," the congressmen wrote. "The fishing industry impacts a wide swath of New Jersey's economy and includes not only fishermen, but processors, boat builders, bait and tackle shops, marinas, distributors, and tourism thanks to New Jersey's vast charter boat operations."
In November, LoBiondo, Runyan and Smith sent a letter to President Barack Obama requesting the New Jersey fishing industry be declared a disaster area.
"We would also like to make you aware that the President did not include funding in his disaster supplemental request to Congress for fisheries disaster relief," the congressmen wrote. "While this funding would be in addition to the President's request, it is no less important to New Jersey's recovery."
The congressmen described a scene familiar to many along the Jersey shore, and especially in Brigantine: "…dozens of large boats piled up in what was left of mangled recreational marinas, causing tremendous damage to infrastructure."
According to the letter, the state's fishing industry included more than 40,000 jobs in 2011, brought in 175 million pounds of seafood, and generated more than $1.3 billion in revenue.
The letter requested relief funding for both the commercial and recreational fishing sectors.


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(BaseballStL) -- Max Scherzer has become the first St. Louis area product to win a Cy Young Award. Scherzer had a 21-3 record with the Detroit Tigers this year, and received 28 of the 30 first place votes for the American League award. Scherzer also led the AL in WHIP (walks and hits per inning) at 0.970. He was second in the league in strikeouts with 240.
After learning he had won the award, Scherzer tweeted: Ahhhhh!!! What a feeling!! Can't wait to get my hands on this trophy!!
Scherzer played at Parkway Central high school at the University of Missouri. The Cardinals drafted Scherzer in the 43rd round after his senior year at Parkway Central. He declined to sign, opting instead to accept a scholarship to Mizzou.
The Cardinals may have another chance to add Scherzer to their roster. He's due to become a free agent after the 2014 season, and his name has come up in trade rumors this week. It would appear highly unlikely though that the Cardinals, with their depth in pitching, would be a serious contender in the Scherzer sweepstakes.


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2014 Annual Meeting of The Society of Mathematical Biology
The Society for Mathematical Biology recognizes the importance of mentoring in the development of a successful career in mathematical biology. Following the successful mentoring program at previous annual meetings, we are again offering a mentoring program for the benefit of junior scientists attending the 2014 Annual SMB / Joint JSMB conference, to be held in Osaka, July 28 - August 1, 2014. The goal of this program is two-fold:
- to optimize the educational and professional experience of mentees attending the conference;
- to assist the mentees' socialization into the field of mathematical biology.
Turning a random walk into a focussed mission
This is the title of an article highlighting the mentoring program of the SMB
that recently was published in the weekly online magazine Science Next Wave.
The article features comments from three very satisfied mentees at one
of our recent annual meetings.
How does it work?
Anyone attending the annual meeting can sign up, either as a mentee, a mentor, or both. Note that we do not offer the mentoring program outside of the annual meetings.
Junior scientists can request to be matched with a senior scientist. Junior scientists include students (both undergraduate and graduate), postdoctoral fellows, research assistants, newly appointed faculty members, etc. Senior scientists include postdoctoral fellows, research assistants, faculty members, etc. Because of the overlap in our definitions of junior and senior scientists, some individuals may sign up both as a mentee and a mentor.
If you would like to participate, contact the coordinator of the mentoring program (see below). The coordinator will find suitable matches between mentees and mentors, based on research interests and/or special requests.
It is expected that the bulk of the interaction between the mentor and mentee will occur during the conference, although initial contact may be made before the conference. Of course we hope that the relationship is mutually satisfying to the mentor and mentee, and will continue after the conference!
At the conference, we envision the following types of interactions, as the mentor and mentee see fit:
- mentors introduce mentees to their colleagues to help the mentee establish a professional network;
- mentors and mentees spend a lunch or dinner together discussing the mentees' educational and/or career objectives;
- mentors share their career experience with their mentees;
- mentors attend the (poster or lecture) presentation of the mentee and provide constructive feedback;
- mentors spend some time explaining how conference presentations relate to each other, or how they fit into 'the bigger picture'.
While these activities are likely to be initiated by the mentor,
it is essential for mentees to give some thought to their participation
ahead of time. In the past, the most successful interactions have been
where a mentee has specific goals they would like to achieve at the
conference, or specific questions they would like to discuss with their
We ask that mentors and mentees keep their discussions confidential
to protect the privacy of everyone involved.
How do I sign up?
Please email the coordinator of the mentoring program by July 9, 2014:
Caroline BampfyldeAlberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development
Government of Alberta
email address: email@example.com
Please include the following information in the main text of your email message:
- Name, career stage, and affiliation (department and institution);
- A brief description of your research interests (one paragraph will suffice);
- Mentees: What are your personal goals for participation in the mentoring program?
- Which of the conference keywords does your research falls under (may be more than one): Agriculture, Behavior, Bioengineering, Biofluid dynamics, Bioimaging, Bioinformatics, Biophysics, Cancer, Cancer therapy, Cardiac physiology, Cell biology, Computational biology, Developmental biology, Ecology, Ecosystems, Education, Epidemiology, Evolutionary biology, Genetics, Genomics, Immunology, Molecular biology, Morphology, Neurobiology, Physiology, Population biology, Population genetics, Regulatory networks, Spatial ecology, Systems biology, Tumor modeling
- Mentees: Do you have any special requests? For example, perhaps you would like a mentor who speaks a certain language, lives in a certain geographical region, has a dual-career family, etc. Or perhaps you know of a senior scientist coming to the conference whom you would like to have as a mentor (if that person were available).
- Mentors: Do you have any special expertise that may be of benefit to mentees? Please include with your information whether you are willing to interact with mentees in a language other than English, whether you can advise on dual-career issues, etc.
We cannot guarantee perfect matches, but we will try our best!
Thank you, Caroline Bampfylde & Carrie A. Manore (SMB mentoring committee).
Where can I find more information about mentoring?
The National Acadamy of Press has published an excellent guide with advice on how to become a better mentor:
Adviser, Teacher, Role Model, Friend: On Being a Mentor to Students in Science and Engineering,
National Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Engineering, Institute of Medicine,
National Academy Press, Washington DC, 1997.
You can also check out the following page with tips on mentoring provided by SMB members:
Mentoring tipsReturn to Meetings


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The First Rule: Make No Fun?
Nicole Griffin of Potomac Ponderings has decided to try not to make fun of John Kerry in this post. UNfortunately, she tried to analyze John Kerry's most famous incoherency on Iraq where he said he voted for the 87 billion dollar funding bill before he voted against it.
Bad choice, Nicole. That's like walking into a tigers' cage weaing porterhouse underwear. It's just not going to go well.
But she does make a very good point and you ought to read it.
I want to cover another point.
The money graf she quoted from the story is:
Kerry ultimately voted against providing $87 billion for military operations and aid in Iraq and Afghanistan. Although he initially supported the appropriation when it was to be funded at least in part by rolling back tax cuts for those with the highest incomes, Kerry said he ended up voting against the final version of the bill in the Senate as a protest over its funding, which included no-bid contracts.
"It was just a very inarticulate way of saying something and I had one of those inarticulate moments," Kerry said in an interview broadcast Wednesday on "Good Morning America" on ABC. "But it reflects the truth of the position … I thought that the wealthiest people of America should share in that burden. It was a protest."
Okay, so if I understand this correctly [Are you sure you want to do this? – ed Quiet You!], John Kerry's opposition was not to the bill itself. It was fine with him for us to spend the money. His problem with is was how we paid for it. He wanted the spending partially offset by raising taxes on the rich.
Now he calls this "shar[ing] in the burden" but that's smoke and mirrors. The rich already share the burden. In fact they share disproportionally more of the burden than anyone else since they pay more of the taxes than anyone and get less of a break. So what is he really saying?
He's saying that he would only support funding our troops if he could force the rich to pay for it themselves. No tax hike, no funding. Period.
Is that really the sort of precedent we want to be setting here? Do we really want a President who feels that we can't fund our troops in active combat unless that cash comes only from the wealthy?
And what happens if we have to respond to an attack, as Kerry's said he would? Will he then try to raise taxes on the rich again? How would that affect our ability to respond quickly, if we have to wait for the bill to get through Congress and for the money to finally make its way into the Federal coffers? Would he try to speed up the progress in some way?
Those would be questions suitable for Thursday's debate, I think.
Category: Uncategorized


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Originally, a collection of living plants designed to illustrate relationships within plant groups. Most modern botanical gardens are concerned primarily with exhibiting ornamental plants in a scheme that emphasizes natural relationships. A display garden of mostly woody plants (shrubs and trees) is often called an arboretum. The botanical garden as an institution can be traced to ancient China and many Mediterranean countries, where such gardens were often centers for raising plants used for food and medicines. Botanical gardens are also reservoirs of valuable heritable characteristics, potentially important in the breeding of new varieties of plants. Still another function is the training of gardeners. The world's most famous botanical garden is Kew Gardens.
Learn more about botanical garden with a free trial on Britannica.com.
A tightening of laws on electoral registration resulted in the ward losing over 41% of its electorate (possibly due to new laws making it more difficult for students to register in two constituencies) As a result the review of Local Government in Northern Ireland originally recommended that the ward be renamed University ward but after public enquiries the ward is to be expanded and in future will include much of the current Windsor ward.


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Home > Personalized Address Labels & Waterproof Labels > Address And Waterproof Labels > Girls-First-Birthday-Label
Girl's First Birthday Address Labels
Address and Waterproof LabelsThis label features a little girl celebrating her first birthday the way all one year olds do...by stuffing cake in her mouth and making a big ol' mess! Sold by the sheet. 30 round edged sticky labels on each sheet.
Get free shipping on orders over $50. Your satisfaction is guaranteed.
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Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center
Glacier, Yellowstone, and Rocky Mountain National Parks are recognized as UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. They serve as benchmark locations for biodiversity and global change monitoring in the Northern Plains region. In addition, more than 70 agricultural research stations and farms, representative of most agricultural MLRAs, are located across the Northern Plains.
Research and collaboration from these sites will provide valuable insights on natural resource conditions and trends into the next century.


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Plus, which singers does she expect to see in the finals? Read on for all of her big confessions!
Nicki Minaj may have millions of fans worldwide, but her biggest fan will always be… herself. "I don't have a 'worst' Idol moment; I've been spectacular," the new American Idol judge told HollywoodLife.com and other reporters March 25. "Yes, I'm going to toot my own horn. And then, my 'best' moment is every single moment. I'll toot it again!"
(We have a feeling Mariah Carey would disagree, but that's OK.)
Nicki Minaj Picks Her Season 12 Favorites
With only eight singers left in the competition, it's starting to become clear with people will likely make it to the final rounds — and Nicki's not afraid to play favorites.
"I would say Kree and Angie [and Candice] are our front runners," she said. "Outside of their voices, they've just sort of won people over already, which I think is evident in just what I see on Twitter with my fans. … Those three singers have really, really made an impact, not only with just a great voice that sounds like it should already be making albums, but for some reason their personality seems to [click with] a lot of fans."
Will Nicki Minaj Return For Season 13?
Given American Idol's rocky history of losing judges quickly — Ellen DeGeneres and Jennifer Lopez, among others, bailed after only one season — Nicki was also asked whether or not she's thought about returning next year.
"I think people would rather be surprised," she said — which is not true. "I like to save the mystery and the drama. I never give that away, but you know what? I always say this, and I mean this from the bottom of my heart, that just the people behind the scenes at Idol have been just like a dream to work with and I really, really honestly mean that."
In other words, she has no idea.
What do YOU think, HollywoodLifers? Are you enjoying Nicki as an Idol judge? Should she return next season? Drop us a comment with your review of Nicki on Idol below!
— Andy Swift, reporting by Russ Weakland
More Nicki Minaj-on-Idol news:
- Nicki Minaj Is 'Always Late' & Rude To Contestants On 'Idol' — Report
- Nicki Minaj: 'American Idol' Execs Not Mad At Her For Lateness & Swearing
- Nicki Minaj Dissed Paul Jolley After 'Idol' Elimination
View Comment
Posted at 8:20 PM on March 30, 2013
nicki has been late twice for judging. most employers would drop her and rightfully so. the best judge is keith urban. its getting old when she keeps talking about female singers lipstick. nicki tries to upstage the contestants just like when she did that to madonna at superbowl.
Posted at 4:39 PM on March 29, 2013
Posted at 11:08 AM on March 29, 2013
I really think that Nicki is entertaining and she is exhibiting the same personality you see in every interview and music video she does. People don't like her because she has her own way of expressing herself and she can be pretty harsh at times. I think she is just telling the contestants the truth about their performance which is her job as an American Idol judge. I was telling my co-worker that I would want someone to be honest with me because it would make me better as an artist; sugar coating in the industry won't get you anywhere. I think that she is really bringing some realism to the show.
Bonnie Zimmer
Posted at 10:47 PM on March 28, 2013
Nicki is ruining the show for everyone. This year the talent is superb, but it is hard to focus on what is important with that Bimbo trying to steal the show. I was in tears tonight and they wouldn't do the save. She makes me physically feel ill, can't stand her look, her mouth and her attitude. Get her off the show before it is totally ruined.
Posted at 11:47 AM on March 28, 2013
Posted at 11:07 AM on March 28, 2013
i wish she would leave during this season !!! i am sick of watching her with the hair, sick of her voice and after last nite sick of her comments—-i mean jimmy iovine, who she has a HUGE issue with gives honest comments to everyone because he KNOWS what he is talking about !!!! but for her to be that cruel there was no excuse for it at all——————–
Posted at 9:42 AM on March 28, 2013
Nicki need to be out cause all I could say is she has to remember she was like them . It toke her a long time for her to get where she at to become a singer n famous or popular whatever it is . These people is less then a yr to become a idol n it alot of pressure for them to reach there dream n going against people to become a singer. It more hard for them then be a singer n just trying to get someone to listen to ur music n sign a record deal. It no pressure just keep trying again until u find someone. Nicki could be herself but be professional not being nasty or give attitude to people. I know she wont like that is they talk to her like that is she was on that stage n judges give attitude or whatever her perform is. Give opinion of course but in a professional way.
walter a parker
Posted at 9:20 AM on March 28, 2013
Posted at 11:08 PM on April 7, 2013
Posted at 8:34 AM on March 28, 2013
Nicki – in comparison to Mariah Carey- comes across very unprofessional! She gives feedback in a way- that it often seems disrespectful to the contestants. (she is a performer, yes- but she can't even sing herself, she's a rapper- that's all!)
I don't know why she was put on American idol in the first place- no way she deserved that spot. I hope to not see her again next year.
It was a BAD, BAD move for American Idol to choose her…
But I guess we all make mistakes.:)
Posted at 12:51 AM on March 28, 2013
Chipotle Whopper
Posted at 12:49 AM on March 28, 2013
Posted at 9:53 PM on March 27, 2013
Nicki needs to tone down on American idol…she's not being a very good role model for America and for the contestants on the show…there's a huge difference between constructive criticism and insulting and she's just down right insulting the people on American idol. She's not really being a positive influence…
That is all!
Posted at 9:38 PM on March 27, 2013
And actually.. to those of u who think she has brought more people to watch american idol.. look at the reviews.. it is a proven fact that this season of idol is the least watched season ever. Maria randy and Keith are amazinggggly talented. This girl is a joke. Ruined the show. Periodddd. Get the heck rid of herpleaseeee so this show can be tolerable again!!
Posted at 11:12 PM on April 7, 2013
Posted at 9:32 PM on March 27, 2013
Umm Nicki Mina is probably the worst just on american idol ever. First of all she is a rapper. Not a singer which definitely shows when she is making her comments on these singers. She has no idea what she is talking about. The onlyyy thing she is good at on this show is being totally rude and inappropriate with everyone. Until this show I liked Nicki Minaj. Now she is a total b*tch!!
Posted at 9:17 PM on March 27, 2013
Posted at 11:14 PM on April 7, 2013
Trudy Kaffanke
Posted at 9:16 PM on March 27, 2013
Janet Brown
Posted at 9:03 AM on March 28, 2013
If this girl is a judge again on American Idol I will notr watch the next season. She has no business making comments on how they look in the way she states it. You can tell before the person performs if she even likes them or they will get a change with her. She needs to go now. What were they thinking??????
Posted at 11:17 PM on April 7, 2013
Posted at 9:02 PM on March 27, 2013
Posted at 8:45 PM on March 27, 2013
Posted at 11:22 PM on April 7, 2013
Posted at 6:00 PM on March 27, 2013
that is the best news i have heard regarding idol—–she is the worst judge idol has had—-to have such a non-talent sitting with the likes of true talent like mariah carey is an insult to the show —–why scrape the bottom of the barrel for judges when they are many TALENTED artists that would benefit the show and possibly keep it on the air——i do not enoy idol anymore especially having to listen to that nasal voice of nicki's and the CONSTANT fixing of the hair—-she is a big joke————————–WATCH "THE VOICE"—-idol has lost its edge in so many ways!!!
Posted at 5:53 PM on March 27, 2013
Posted at 4:59 PM on March 27, 2013
I think that she should stay on the show because had brought more people attention too watch american idol
For one befor nicki minaj was onit. I didn't watch it because it was boring now nicki is on it I watch it
She's got millions too watch it and even her BARBZ
The rest of the pannel are boring her and keith bring fun ness too da panel without her I'm not watching it american idol is boring with nicki minaj
Posted at 5:49 PM on March 27, 2013
It really is amazing how people use forums like these to trash someone whom they have never met. It really says something of the individual's personality. Personally, I believe that Nicki is one of the most candid judges on the panel. You may think she is talentless; However, Nicki if she wanted to, could sing as she did intend to try out for singing in her school days, but lost her voice at the time of auditions. She goofs around when it comes to singing at times; but this does not mean she is inept of judging. Additionally many of her deep raps are very metaphorical and allegorical and full of motifs and symbols. Note I said her deep raps not the ones where she seems to be goofing around and just having fun. Finally, she is as stupid as some of you try to make her seem; she is quite intelligent… Besides she graduated with honors. Who are you all to judge? Which of you is perfect? I thought so.
Posted at 5:51 PM on March 27, 2013


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Serving up all the latest food news, cool foodie products, gossip, and good deals that are fit to print!
The 10 Foods You're Eating That Make Your Coworkers Hate You
Working in an office is challenging. You're cramped in a small space with people who you don't always love, and you spend a lot of time with them. While you're focused on your neighbor's annoying personal phone calls or his incessant pen clicking, you might be making enemies in the office just by eating. Here are 10 food choices that might make your coworkers silently curse you at their computers.
1. Baby Carrots: Crunch, crunch, CRUNCH! Even if you keep your mouth closed, it takes a lot of noisy crunching to get through a serving of those healthy baby carrots. Sure, you just got a healthy dose of beta-carotene. And your neighbor now has a splitting headache.
2. Whole Apples: Apples are healthy and delicious but also loud and obnoxious. Your jaw works hard to take that bite, and your coworkers are well aware of the exertion. And then, of course, there's the dribble. That nice, juicy apple forces you to slurp up escaping juices aggressively so that they dont run down your hand. Awesome.
3. Hard-Boiled Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs DO NOT win friends. Nobody likes the smell of eggs, and you just brought it into the tiny shared office space.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Your kids don't want to eat it. Your coworkers don't want to smell it.
5. Rice Cakes: Here's another snack that gets the stink eye for its incredibly loud crunch. Plus, when you take a bite, bits and pieces inevitably fall to your desk. No biggie, you can just brush them away right onto your neighbor's keyboard.
6. Tuna: We're not talking about a nice plate of quickly seared sesame-crusted tuna. It's the ever-affordable canned tuna that brings those evil glares. Even if you bury it in mayo or salad dressing, the stench still lingers.
7. Bacon: We love bacon. We love bacon so much that we can eat it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A lot of people really like bacon...which is why it's a problem. When you bring that alluring smell around your coworkers, all they can think about is bacon. Next time, bring enough for the whole office.
8. Kimchi: There are die-hard kimchi fans and there are die-hard kimchi haters, but they can all agree on one thing: kimchi smells really smells.
9. Burned Popcorn: Popcorn is a great mid-afternoon snack. But if you leave it in the microwave too long, you become that person who made the ENTIRE office smell like burned popcorn. For hours. Or even days. Seriously, the microwave still smells.
10. Microwaved Fish: Just don't do it. Ever.
Are you guilty of any of these office food faux pas? Which foods do you wish your coworkers would never eat at the office?
Find more great food content on Delish:
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Eco-Wise Fitness is the only manufacturer that offers a full range of commercially grade Eco friendly, Yoga, Pilates, and Fitness products. Our products are made to compliment both the Mind and Body.
There are several ecological benefits of using Eco-Wise products. We respect the environment by manufacturing all our products free of both PVC and Chlorides. We use a patented TPE (Thermo plastic Elastomer) close-cell foam material, as well as a EVA close-cell foam material to help achieve this goal.
On the health side, Eco-Wise respects the body by having all our products manufactured free of Latex and Phthalates. Latex is an allergen as well as a material that negatively effects and intensifies over 25 major conditions and illnesses. It is banned in many Medical and Public Health care facilities. Phthalates are linked to many illness and is legally prohibited in many Child Day care and school facilities that have young children and toddlers that sit, sleep, and exercise on mats.
Core Training Exercise Tips Slams - Begin by standing with your feet slightly wider than shoulder width apart and your knees slightly bent. Hold the medicine ball above your head. Throw the ball forcefully down on the ground, making sure to pull down with your abdominals on the downward throwing motion. Catch the ball and return to the starting position. Advanced Technique: For an added challenge, you can perform this exercise with one arm at a time. Catch the ball on the bounce and repeat with the other arm.
Shipping Included Shipping cost included within the lower 48 states only Ships via UPS


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[Video-stitching software] Autopano Video 1.1 (final)
Thursday, October 10th, 2013
Software update: the new version 1.1 of Autopano Video and Autopano Video Pro is available for download!
This video stitcher is available for Windows and Mac: automatically assemble multiple video streams to create wide-angle videos or 360-degree videos. Autopano Video and Autopano Video Pro are part of Kolor 360-degree Video Solutions. |


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Gateway Harley-Davidson® Vendor Application
Lot Parties:
Bike Nights:
Tee Off for the Troops Golf Scramble:
Motorcycle Boot Camps:
Women's Only Garage Parties:
H.O.G. ® Events and Rides:
Hotdog and Pancake Saturdays:
We strive to make our dealership the place to hang out on Saturday afternoons. We also strive to help local organizations with their fundraising campaigns. This is why we started our Hot Dog Saturday program. We provide the basic supplies, and ask that a local organization bring some volunteers to grill and serve hot dogs each Saturday during the riding season. During the off season we look for groups to flip and serve pancakes. During the holidays we look for groups to do gift wrapping. Full details can be found on our website. We have many events, lot parties, bike washes, bike nights, bike shows, VIP nights, women's nights, and rides here at Gateway Harley-Davidson®. And that's not half of it! We're looking for corporatations, organizations, charities, not-for-profits, bands, food vendors, liquor vendors, craft vendors, retail vendors, etc. that would like to participate in some of our events. See all upcoming event dates.
We have many events which require specific things (food, live music, retail, etc). We would like to keep your contact information on file so we can call you directly when there is a specific need. If you are interested, please download our Band Application or Vendor/Sponsorship Application and submit to:
Chuck Dalba
Director of Marketing
Fax: 314-845-9904


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Meetings, Conference & Banqueting
The Kreutzwald Hotel Tallinn with its brand new conference centre is an ideal venue for conferences, seminars and workshops for up to 65 delegates.
Our three conference rooms on the ground floor of the hotel seat 35, 55 and 65 delegates and feature natural daylight and state-of-the-art conference equipment. We provide all standard equipment plus full audio & visual facilities including data projectors, graphoprojectors and translation cabins. An exciting selection of coffee and tea breaks, buffet lunches and set menus are available at your request.
The hotel has two smaller meeting rooms – Linda and Kalev. They seat 35-55 delegates and are perfect for smaller meetings, seminars and training sessions.
The biggest conference and banqueting venue is the Kreutzwald room, which seats up to 80 delegates in a very stylish, yet cozy and friendly environment.
Also ask about our fabulous range of services for children's birthdays, company anniversaries, wedding arrangements, Christmas parties and other special events.
Additional information and reservations:
- Phone: +372 666 4810
- E-mail: email@example.com


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4G marches on – LTE soon to reach majority of world's population
Fourth generation or 4G mobile networks promise faster connections enabling users to do more while on the go. There's quite some confusion about what 4G actually is and what technologies can be called 4G or not. 3GPP Long Term Evolution, or LTE for short, seems to be the technology that currently shows the most promise to be able to cut the Ethernet umbilical cord and set us free. Other than the promise of speeds in excess of 100 Mbps, why should you be excited about LTE coming to where you live?
Fresh numbers [PDF] from Informa Telecoms & Media show a majority of the world's population will have the the option of LTE for mobile broadband soon, with around ten percent already living where LTE is running. We crunched the numbers and here are the key facts.


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The next original DC universe animated movie, Justice League: War, will be available for purchase February 4. This is the first animated version of the new 52 DCU, and the movie tells the story of how the Justice League formed in the wake of Darkseid's attack on Earth.
The extras on this release will be
To promote the upcoming release, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has released the following video clips.
Jason O'Mara, who plays Batman, on the early days of the Justice League.
Justin Kirk, who plays Green Lantern, on the same topic, with a bit weirder comparison.
From the film, here's the first meeting of Batman and Green Lantern as they fight a parademon.
Christopher Gorham, who plays Flash, on why that's his favorite character.
And which character he wishes was in this film but isn't.
And finally, a short clip of Wonder Woman demonstrating some impressive fighting skills.
[…] Jason O'Mara as Batman (the same role he played in Justice League: War) […]
I got to see it, and the movie is okay. The by play between the heroes, especially Hal, Batman and Flash are pretty fun. The action is there, but it just doesn't seem that clever.
I always like it when you see the heroes join together and combining their skills and powers helps them overcome the bigger obstacle. This movie's actions are pretty much "We didn't defeat it the first time we attacked it? Let's do it again, and just try harder this time!"
Those missing a key JL founding member, stay tuned until after the credits when another story from the comics is setup for the next New 52 movie.
[…] Justice League: War is the first "new 52″ DC original animated movie, and although I don't care for […]


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Today I am grateful for…
…this restful and uneventful day.
…Facebook. Despite a lazy day I could still socialize and chat away with friends.
…the realization that I can choose to feel whole. It is bliss to be whole without needing a partner or alcohol, to just be me and do what I do.
…being sober. This time last year I was unemployed and sat at home drinking alcohol obsessively every day. And I thought – this is not right, I left my job so that I would get the opportunity to turn my life around. Most of all, I left that hellhole so that I would stop drinking. Yet there I was, drinking away and that scared me profoundly. Still it would take another three weeks or so of drinking before I would have built up the strenght to seek help.
…having made the right decisions, several times over.
30 Days of Gratitude… Are You In?


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Hey everyone,
I thought it would be fun (and maybe even a good way to inspire the devs!) to create a thread where people could propose different ideas that they think could make A Game of Dwarves awesome. They can be big complicated systems (like my trade caravan idea below) or just specific buildings (like my second idea below). Have at it!
I'll go first:
1) It would be cool if our dwarven settlement had some sort of contact with other settlements (dwarven or other); i.e. the trade caravans in Dwarf Fortress that can help you target high profit commodities to help you focus your industry while developing.
2) Dwarven breweries!
3) I saw a post in another thread that made me think of: the option to have military dwarves train against dummies or other military dwarves. Training against dummies could be slower but you'd have all of your military dwarves in top form for an unexpected crisis; Training against other dwarves is faster but could result in injuries. A sort of low risk/low reward vs. high risk/high reward decision.


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Israel News - Stay Informed, Pray Informed
We are literally watching the Bible unfold before our eyes with the ongoing ingathering of the Exiles to Israel. Jews are returning from the 4 corners of the earth where they blessed the communities where they were living despite centuries of persecution.
Because of the cultural and ethnic differences that new immigrants bring with them when they immigrate, it is more challenging for many of them to adjust to the mix of Western and Middle Eastern life in Israel.
New immigrants often have a difficult time adjusting to life in Israel, finding meaningful employment, provide for their families and fully integrate into Israeli society.
With a gift of love of only $15 you could help Israel Today make them feel welcome, loved and at home in the Land of Israel!
Ester Rada's family history reads like a novel. Driven out of Ethiopia, their country of birth, by famine, Ester's parents escaped on foot to Sudan. They found themselves confined to a refugee camp in life-threatening conditions, and desperation set in until the God of their ancestors intervened. The Radas were Ethiopian Jews, and qualified to be airlifted out of Sudan in 1984 by the Israeli government, during Operation Moses.
Accepted for Aliyah, the Radas were granted Israeli citizenship and settled into a new life in Kiryat Arba, where Ester was born a year later. Kiryat Arba is situated near the outskirts of the West Bank, so life was politically volatile for young Ester but the family were surrounded by many other Ethiopian immigrants, and culturally she was stable and secure in the early years. Later on, at school, Ester no longer wanted to feel different, and so she learned to speak in Hebrew, and compensated for looking East-African by drawing attention with her lovely singing voice.
The rest, as they say, is history. A compulsory stint in the Israeli Defense Force led Ester straight into a professional career, after two years as a singer in a military band. Her unique, cross-cultural sound is a deep reflection of her Ethiopian heritage, with the added dimension of an Israeli birthright.
"It was confusing to have one thing at home, and something totally different outside, and I wanted to be like everyone else," Rada says. Only now does she feel that all the pieces are in the right place.
Ester has a voice - there are so many Ethiopian-Israelis who do not. The common thread for all immigrants to Israel is wanting to 'absorb' or fit in - for Ethiopian-Israelis, with a different culture and different looks, and the added financial handicap of being a disadvantaged minority before Aliyah, fitting in is particularly difficult.
Consider giving a gift of love to help Ethiopian immigrants feel at home in the Land of Israel. Click here For only $15 you can purchase a nourishing food hamper today for a struggling Ethiopian family! * AND all summer, Israel Today will match your donation, providing a 'double blessing' to those who need it most.


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In a couple of hours, I'll be heading out to Chupacabracon for a weekend gaming and fun.
Yes, I'll probably spend most of my time volunteering and attending panels rather than gaming but I've got my slate clean for a Savage Saturday night and am ready for possibly an Old School pick up game. It's been a while since I've been to a con and this one really has me excited. Austin needs a good gaming con.
Hope to meet a lot of cool folks, learn some stuff and have a great time. So maybe I'll finally get to meet some of you Internet people there. Let's have some fun folks.
One of the things that's really been bounding around my head is managing what little time I feel like I have. Crap. Between day job, writing, gaming, game design, squeezing out a little fun time and making time for all those mundane have-to-do tasks, it seems like there isn't really time to do any of it. Heaven forbid that something should go wrong and the shit hits the fan. It's frustrating and I know damned well that things are going to be getting even more hectic and frantic. Throw in the fact that I'm a glutton for punishment, I'm even throwing more things to do in the mix. I've read lots of little helpful how-to's and that sort of thing but none of that has ever worked for little old me. I know I've got to get things going so here's my nifty little schedule.
The two things to schedule first are Must-Do's and fun. Let's face it. There's stuff that you just have to do. Most of us have day jobs. Then you have to eat, sleep, pay bills, laundry, yard work, house cleaning, and appointments. Don't fight it. Just schedule it and get it over with. And yes, I schedule may fun time too. Because if I didn't I wouldn't take a break until I fell face first on the floor or worse just staring at a computer screen wondering what the hell should I write. Better to have fun and unwind than sit there and beat yourself up for not "getting it done". That also means making realistic goals. Emphasis on the REALISTIC!
Between all that comes the creative work. Writing, brainstorming, proofreading and so on. Of course, the key to schedule this one is when I'm at most creative. Oddly enough that's usually Wednesday evenings. I'm not a morning or Monday person. So that day goes to Mundane To-Do/housekeeping stuff. But then's there's always those "Oh, shit" moments. Unplanned and unscheduled stuff that just well happens. Biggest failure is just not dealing with it and then beating myself for getting "behind". Time spent beating yourself up is wasted. Learn. Correct. And move on.
Don't forget those precious moments. That time when you just exhale and tons of stuff tumbles into your brain. WRITE it down.
Now on to the juicy bits of why even bothered to do this post. Dammit, I gotta to get more stuff done. Get that writing and game design projects out the door. Get that Swords & Wizardry game off the ground and have some laid back fun. And have some time to do some of the simple things in life like a normal person.
Heck, maybe I'll even take the time proofread my blogs posts. Yeah, I know this was one of my crazy stream of conscience type posts. Hey, I do that now and then. Gimme a break. So don't tell me to get a life. This is my life.
Yeah, I know. I usually post earlier in the day but yesterday was more work on the fence and by the time I was done, I could hardly type. So I'm a little late getting things going this week.
Like I said, I've really been thinking about running a game on Google+. First, don't get too excited. I got a couple projects to get done first before some free time opens up. I'm really thinking about some sort Swords & Wizardry or Tunnels & Trolls. I just haven't decided yet. I'd love to mess around with T&T and I think the basic mechanics would be good for Google+ play but right now I'm waiting on the Deluxe Edition to hit the presses. Which should be in a couple more months.
But Swords & Wizardry has mechanics that much more familiar to many players. So it's a debate. Maybe do some T&T one shots or something.
Like I said at the beginning of this post, thinking about it and juggling a few projects. So my thoughts are muddled and the brain is a little fuzzy. So just stay tuned and let me wake up before say too much.
Kingmaker: Meet Hanarg Venom Tusk
We're starting Paizo's Kingmaker adventure path tonight. The GM is going to use Aspects from FATE in the game and I haven't finished those yet. But then again neither have any of the other players. We should have a pretty interesting group for this game. And keep the blogosphere fairly up to date as things progress.
Hanarg Venom Tusk Half Orc Oracale (Nature) 1/Sorcerer (Serpentine) 0 Alignment: N
Str 14 (+2)
Dex 12 (+1)
Con 15 (+2)
Int 10
Wis 10
Cha 18 (+4)
AC 18 (+3 Std Leather, +1 Natural Armor, +4 Cha)
Saves: Fot +2, Reflex +1, Will +2
Lng: Common, Orc
Racial Abilities: Orc Ferocity, Darkvision 60 FT
Feats: Iron Hide (+1 Nat Armor)
Skills: Intimidate +6, Knowledge (Nature) +4, Spellcraft +4, Survival +4
Class Abilities: Curse: Haunted, Revalation: Echoes of Nature (use Cha for AC)
Traits: Brigand (Campaign), Brute
Spells: 0 Level: Mage Hand, Ghost Sound, Read Magic, Detect Magic, Resistance, Guidance. 1st Level (4/day) Cure Light Wounds, Divine Favor, Shield of Faith
Gear: Studded Leather Armor, Cold Iron Great Axe, Dagger, Light Crossbow, 20 Bolts, Backpack, Bedroll, 4 days Travel Rations, 50 ft Silk Rope, Tanglefoot Bag, Alchemist's Fire
Well if you've been paying the least bit of attention to the RPG scene, you've probably heard that Ryan Dancey has made another gloomy prediction for the RPG industry. Basically, the chances for D&D remaining a table top game are pretty much dead in the water. Despite the chant of "So goes WOTC so goes the hobby" I really don't think that WOTC is all that important any more. Yes, WOTC is the 800 pound gorilla but Paizo is like a 600 pound gorilla. Pathfinder has pretty much tied or surpassed 4th Edition D&D depending on what stats you happen to believe. I find it really amazing that a company the size of Hasbro could have missed so badly so many times on marketing the world's most popular role playing game. Remember the brouhaha with GSL and the Edition Wars? The mixed reception of D&D Insider and the virtual tools? And even more recently the whole "Is Essentials 4.5?" debate. What all this says to this little guy is that the people holding the purse strings just didn't understand their market. I don't blame the talented crew of designers. I blame the suits and the bean counters at Hasbro who marketed D&D like it was Clue or Risk.
But if WOTC fell flat on its face would it really be that bad? Sure they would probably sit on the license and milk it for all it is worth through electronic games, board games, films and whatever other merchandise they could sell. What would it mean for the RPG hobby? I think there would be some dark and difficult days. But in the end the hobby would endure by going back to its roots. The exact thing that grew the hobby in the first place. Small groups of friends huddled over a table having fun. Remember this hobby actually started pre-Internet. Yes, youngsters there was a time when there was no email, no facebook, no twitter nada. I think the hobby has a much better chance of surviving and thriving now than if TSR had totally crashed and burned and Wizards had not stepped in and taken over.
But this is my blog and its OK for me to dream. What in my crazy dreams would be the prefect outcome for everybody? WOTC/Hasbro wants to make money. I have no problem with that. Let them. They can have the D&D license and make as many board games, video games, comic books, movies and whatever that they want. Let another publisher take of the RPG license. I wouldn't want it to be Paizo. Yes, I do like Pathfinder but I don't consider myself a Paizo cultist. Paizo has a solid game and market with Pathfinder. If they got the D&D license too, it would just muddle the waters. At the very best in my dream world, they'd merge the two and take the best things from Pathfinder/3.5 and the best ideas from 4th Edition and merge them. And resurrect the OGL. But that's just crazy talk isn't it?
There's one other path that WOTC still might take. Look at the time between the release of various editions. I'll dare to say it. It's about time for the announcement of 5th Edition and a chance to undo many of the crazy things they did with the launch of 4th Edition. Mark my words. Late this year or next year, there will be at the very least a major announcement from WOTC that will change the game in a major way again.


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COLT Icons - Pete Kuzak
Scene Info
COLT Icons - Pete Kuzak
From the most trusted name in all-male erotica and continuing to set the standard in masculine appeal, COLT Studio Group and it's COLT Men are a cut above the rest. Standing at the apex of sexual expression, the Men of the COLT Icon Series are the cream of the crop. For most, COLT Man Pete Kuzak needs little introduction. His massive muscular frame, his warm and disarming smile, his muscled body covered in dark fur, his rock hard physique... There are not enough adjectives to describe him. COLT Man Pete Kuzak is known far and wide as the total package. Few men exude the masculinity and charisma that are evident in Pete's confident swagger. The images captured and presented here are the images that ICONS are made from. Enjoy these images taken out of the COLT Vault for your enjoyment!
- Updated : 2013.03.14 |
- Length : 02:41 min |
- Views : 5623
The first movie under John Rutherford's direction at COLT studio, after purchasing the studio in 2003, was
RELOAD. Making a hardcore COLT Movie of this quality certainly required some dexterity. The production
had its challenges due to the underwater sex sequence involving Marcus Iron and Rob Romoni. Rutherford
wanted to push the boundaries with the ways viewers got to look at COLT Men by staging innovative shots
of underwater penetration. Award-winning videographer, Todd Montgomery, used an underwater camera
to capture the scenes up close far before anyone else in the industry was doing it at the time. The scenes
were seen up close and the performers were very excited to try something new. The COLT Movie
RELOAD and its underwater scene will be one to remember.
The mood on the COLT Movie set was overall very positive, as each of the guys knew they were making
history and helping to take COLT Studio in a great new direction for the new owners. Of course, having
the opportunity to participate in so much man-on-man action, with a group of muscular men, was also an
incentive to do great work on the set.


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Review: Microsoft Windows 8
A Big, Beautiful, Slightly Shaky Step Forward
Rating: 7/10 Very good, but not quite great
- $40 download, $70 boxed upgrade pack
- · More info from Microsoft
- Reviewed by Alexandra Chang
- October 25, 2012 |
- 6:30 am |
- Categories: Reviews, Software & Apps
The new version of Windows, which is available Friday, sees Microsoft tucking the old, desktop-focused Windows skin into its back pocket, and instead donning a colorful, touch-friendly suit of tiles. It's such a grand departure from Redmond's legacy Windows software that most users won't recognize it as Windows at all. And that's a beautiful thing.
I've been testing Windows 8 over the last few months, and I've come to really enjoy using it. Yes, it took a lot of re-learning and adjustment. Yes, I felt lost and baffled at first. And sure, I was a bit sad to see the Start Menu vanish. (There are others who feel the same way and have solutions.) Several small annoyances remain for Microsoft to work out. But if you're willing to put in a little bit of initial effort to learn the ropes, Windows 8 is definitely worth the upgrade.
The learning curve isn't too steep. The operating system is fun to use right out of the box, and it doesn't skimp on the key functionality you expect from the Windows brand. If you're buying a new computer this fall, or upgrading a recently purchased PC by installing Windows 8, you should expect something equal parts drastically new and comfortingly familiar.
Microsoft has two key goals for Windows 8. First, the company wants to regain its cool. Windows has long been synonymous with a mundane experience centered on "productivity." While Apple offers a visually slick, intuitive, user-friendly experience on the desktop, Microsoft has stuck to the Windows Way. For over a decade, it's been serving scoops of vanilla to compete with Apple's waffle cones of mint chocolate chip with rainbow sprinkles. This strategy has helped Microsoft maintain its stronghold on the PC market, especially among business customers reliant on legacy apps and the host of OEM partners who crank out the devices for their consumption. But Apple simply has more mojo. Walk into any college dorm, tech startup, or big-city coffee shop, and you'll see an ocean of MacBooks, all running OS X. Younger users and creative types favor Apple's computing environment. It's undeniable.
The other thing Microsoft needs to do — desperately — is catch up in mobile computing. Its Windows Phone OS for smartphones is lagging, but it's expected to gain more traction as better devices and apps are released. The bigger worry here is tablets.
As we move further into the "post-PC era," the iPad is still held up as the gold standard for mobile computing, and Android is the scrappy alternative. Windows 7 was a total bust on tablets. It just didn't translate well to the touchscreen world. Redmond's plan for Windows 8, therefore, is to develop a fun and colorful OS that straddles the PC and the post-PC worlds. Windows 8 can run both on tablets and on traditional computers, it can be fully controlled with touches, swipes and gestures, and it still gives users full access to all the good old Microsoft stuff: docs, spreadsheets, and the myriad legacy apps they use every day. With Surface, it's even diving into tablet hardware to prove how well its dual-use approach can work.
My Windows 8 testing took place on both on a touch tablet and a non-touch notebook. I'll often connect a keyboard and mouse or touchpad to the tablet in order to mimic the "convertible" experience. While I definitely prefer Windows 8 in a touch environment, it's almost as easy and pleasant to use with a gesture-enabled trackpad. By far, my least favorite method of using Windows 8 is touchless, with only a standard mouse and keyboard. But even then, it's not a bad experience.
The main factor for such varying experiences lies in the new Start Screen. The gorgeous spread of colorful tiles makes total sense with touch, and will look familiar to anyone who has used a Windows Phone device, as Microsoft's new mobile OS sports the same interface. We've covered the new environment thoroughly in our hands-ons of the Consumer Preview, Release Review and Release to Manufacturer versions of Windows 8.
If you're a veteran Windows user, the new Start Screen will definitely take some getting used to. But the familiar Windows desktop of yore remains, and is easily accessible as a tile (just like any other app) on the Start Screen. Microsoft is taking a significant risk here, since users who have been loyal to Windows might get very confused or feel betrayed until they find that magic button to take them to the desktop. Whether these people can adjust to Windows 8 will depend heavily on Microsoft's messaging and instructions. If that goes wrong, Windows 8 could fail entirely.


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Hush, Hush
Becca Fitzpatrick,Hush, Hush
Publisher: Simon Schuster Children's Publishing | ISBN: 1416989412 | edition October 13, 2009 | File type: PDF | 400 pages | 18.5 mb
For Nora Grey, romance was not part of the plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how much her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her. Not until Patch came along.
With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Nora is drawn to him against her better judgment.
But after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure who to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is, and to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is way more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel.
For Nora is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those that have fallen - and, when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost her life.
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Oulu Wakeup Services Hotels, Lodging, and Places to StayHere are the top Oulu wakeup services listings so you can find the best in Oulu for your trip. Read these wakeup services reviews written by real travelers. You can narrow these results using the filters to the left.
CHECK RATES From 101 EUR (47 reviews) Oulu, Oulu Province, Finland Holiday Club Eden Oulu is located in a beautiful setting by the sea and enjoys immediate access to a fine bathing beach. The unspoilt nature of Nallikari and the.. CHECK RATES From 69 EUR (45 reviews) Oulu, Oulu Province, Finland The Sokos Hotel Arina is located in Oulu making it one of the best hotels to stay at while in town. All hotel's guestrooms have all the conveniences expected in a hotel.. CHECK RATES From 66 EUR (25 reviews) Oulu, Oulu Province, Finland The Cumulus Hotel is perfectly located for both business and leisure guests to Oulu. The hotel has 207 rooms which are all nicely decorated to provide a memorable stay...
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It's important to remember that we're all in the same boat and we need to reach out to each other during the good times and the not-so-good times. Let me share some thoughts on this topic relative to recent blog comments:
Edward T. Creagan, M.D.
Follow on Twitter: @EdwardCreagan
Join the discussion at #Stress.
Original article: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/stress-management/expert-blog/reach-out-for-help/bgp-20056087


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No spittin', no swearin', no instigatin'...
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by bigmck » Sun Jun 24, 2012 11:03 am
by Quackman » Sun Jun 24, 2012 1:34 pm
bigmck wrote:I know for a fact that a league does not have to have Vetos to be a successful league. I ran a single season NL only league from 1991 to 2010 before it disbanded. We had a veto rule, but in 20 seasons it was never used.
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If you are ever in The Black Forest of Germany you need to go to Alpirsbach. Not only is it a beautiful place to visit (the mountains and forests), but it has the best beer I have ever had. The rumor is true.....the Germans know their beer!
Community0 Countries 0 Friends 3 Reviews & Articles 1 Firsts Last Login: Member Since: Dec 4, 2008 ÅMªÑðaUpdates on ÅMªÑða's World! ÅMªÑða's Friends! ÅMªÑða currently has no friends, but you know what? You can be the FIRST one! |


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Your Pop Alternative Source
Time: September 22, 2009 all day
Location: USA
Website or Map: http://www.cherrytreerecords.…
Event Type: single release
Organized By: Tokio Hotel
Latest Activity: Sep 21, 2009
Export to Outlook or iCal (.ics)
Tokio Hotel's single 'AUTOMATIC' is out in the US from September 22nd. The single is taken from the forthcoming album HUMANOID.
© 2015 Created by Cherrytree.


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MAC Cremesheen - Crosswires
Average Rating 4.4/5 |
Review by JadeFatale
This is my absolute favourite HG everyday lipstick! My best friend was wearing it and looked great in it and I asked to try it and fell in love. She bought it for me as well! <3 It is good all year round for her lovely Malay skin and my Chinese sometimes-tanned-sometimes-pale skin. Lovely coral pink colour. More coral than Fan Fare. Moisturizing and lasting.
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JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa
Description provided by JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa
Vibrant and serene, bold and enchanting, the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa embraces the future and welcomes the next generation of guests into its harmonious blend of creature comforts with a storied history. Our luxury Scottsdale resort pulses with a spirit of adventure, whether you are playing one of our 2 championship Arizona golf courses; relaxing in our award-winning spa; or enjoying endless outdoor recreation, including swimming, hiking, and biking. Our dramatic 125-acre campus beneath Mummy Mountain features casita rooms brimming with luxurious amenities and an indulgence of fine cuisine at our 6 restaurants, including the famed BLT Steak. Our luxury resorts high-tech meeting and event rooms, outdoor venues and private dining provide cozy spaces for large groups or intimate soirees. Free high-speed Wi-Fi in public spaces, an outdoor heated pool and complimentary classes in our state-of-the-art fitness center will leave guests with the thinking In all the world, only one...
List of Amenities for JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa
· 24-hour room service · ATM/Cash machine · Accessible facilities · Accessible parking · Barber shop · Beauty shop/salon · Boarding pass print-out available · Buffet breakfast · Business center · Business services · Car rental desk · Check cashing policy · Cocktail lounge · Cocktail lounge with entertainment · Cocktail lounge with light fare · Coffee shop · Coin operated laundry · Complimentary in-room coffee or tea · Complimentary newspaper delivered to room · Complimentary newspaper in lobby · Concierge desk · Continental breakfast · Dinner delivery service from local restaurant · Drugstore/pharmacy · Dry cleaning · Efolio available to company · Exercise gym · Express check-out · Florist · Food and beverage outlets · Full service housekeeping · Gift/News stand · Golf · Hair dryer · Hairdresser/barber · Health club · High speed internet access · High speed wireless · High speed wireless · Housekeeping - daily · Ice machine · Individual Efolio available · Ironing board · Jogging track · Kitchenette · Laundry/Valet service · Lounges/bars · Meeting rooms · Motorcycle parking · Non-smoking rooms (generic) · On-Site parking · Onsite laundry · Outdoor pool · Parking · Pets allowed · Pool · Public area air conditioned · Restaurant · Room service · Room service - full menu · Safe deposit box · Sauna · Security · Spa · Steam bath · Tennis court · Valet cleaning · Valet parking · Valet same day dry cleaning · Video checkout · Video review billing · Wakeup service · Wedding services · Whirlpool · Wireless internet connection in public areas |
Restaurant Information
BLT Steak, ScottsdaleEnjoy contemporary fine dining in the best steakhouse in Scottsdale, AZ. Celebrity French Chef Laurent Tourondel brings his culinary wizardry to the desert, and the result is not to be missed. Open for dinner only. Reservations recommended.
Rita's KitchenWarm and inviting, with an ambience of casual, colorful charm, and the patterns and textures of the desert Southwest, elements exceeded only by the delicious dishes of home-style regional cuisine made with the freshest local foods and produce.
R BarThe trendy R Bar restaurant and lounge boasts a delectable menu of appetizers, small plates and entrees. Be sure to try our unique, hand-crafted cocktails with herbs from our own spice garden. Live entertainment is featured nightly.
Acacia at Camelback Golf ClubNow open! Acacia is serving American favorites with a twist, in a casual and relaxed atmosphere. Open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week.
Sprouts at the SpaLocated in the Spa and offering a great view to the outdoors, Sprouts features a light and healthy menu. Open to all guests, this peaceful cafe is perfect for a low-key, relaxing meal.
Hoppin' Jacks at the Jackrabbit PoolHandmade pizza, salads, hot and cold specialty sandwiches, burgers and an ice cream bar are among the delicious items available patio or poolside at this delightful caf at the Jackrabbit Pool.
StarbucksGet your espresso fix here! Enjoy refreshing hot and cold beverages made by our expert baristas.
Meeting Facility
Arizona Ballroom Salons A-E and N-J (each) Salons F-H (each) Salons G-I (each) Salons A-G and H-N Salons F-I Salons A,B,F,H,M,N Salons C,D,E,G,I,J,K,L Salons A,B,F or H,M,N Salons C,D,E,G or I,J,K,L Town Hall Peace Pipe Sunshine Cholla Mesquite & Palo Verde Saguaro Cottonwood BoardroomRecreation Information
Tennis court
Health club
Jogging trail
Bowling alley
Bike trail
Hiking trail
Horseback riding
Mountain biking trail
Nature preserve trail
Putt putt golf
Rock climbing
Outdoor pool
Children's program
Fitness center on-site
Area Attractions
ScottsdaleHerberger Theater
Scottsdale Desert Stages
Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin West
The Heard Museum
Phoenix Art Museum
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
MIM-The Musical Instrument Museum
US Airways Center - Home of the Phoenix Suns, Phoenix Mercury, and Arizona Rattlers
Sun Devil Stadium
Chase Field - Home of the MLB Arizona Diamondbacks
Grand Canyon University
Arizona State Univesity
Scottsdale Community College
Scottsdale Fashion Square
Biltmore Fashion Park
Borgata of Scottsdale
Kierland Commons
Arizona Cardinals
Phoenix Suns - NBA Basketball at US Airways Center
Arizona Diamondbacks - MLB at Chase Field
Phoenix Coyotes
Arizona Rattlers - Arena Football at US Airways Center
Phoenix Mercury - WNBA Basketball at US Airways Center
Sedona/Oak Creek Canyon
Phoenix Zoo
Rawhide Western Town & Steak House
Desert Botanical Gardens
American Express Travel
Wild West Jeep Tours
Multi Day and Single Day Hiking and Biking Tours
Arizona Horseback Riding Tours
Grand Canyon Tour
Platinum Grand Canyon & Sedona Tour with Helicopter
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
Scottsdale Municipal Airport
Room Information for this hotel
The amenities listed in this description represent a sample of amenities available in some or all guest rooms in this hotelCoffee/Tea maker, Instant hot water, Minibar, Wet bar, Alarm clock, Ceiling fan, Air conditioning, Air conditioning individually controlled in room, Outdoor space, Bottled water, Safe, Shower, Separate tub and shower, Oversized bathtub, Private bathroom, Weight scale, Phone in bathroom, Bathrobe, Hairdryer, Upgraded bathroom amenities, Double vanity, Lighted makeup mirror, Slippers, Separate closet, Closets in room, Iron, Bathroom amenities, Down/feather pillows, Foam pillows, Pillow top mattress, Duvet, Feather bed, Sofa bed, Cribs, Rollaway bed, Storage space, Local calls, Free toll free calls, Kitchenette, Full kitchen, Pantry, Tables and chairs, Mini-refrigerator, Refrigerator, Stove, Oven, Microwave, Dishwasher, Color television, Cable television, Plug & play panel, CNN availaible, HBO available, ESPN available, All news channel, Pay per view movies on TV, AM/FM radio, CD player, Stereo, Remote control television, Large desk, Chair provided with desk, Electrical current voltage, Separate modem line available, Telephone, Voice mail, Multi-line phone, Cordless phone, Connecting rooms
Miscellaneous Information provided by JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa
· American Dollars is the native currency.
· Check in time is 4:00 PM
· Check out time is 11:00 AM
· Opened in 1936
· Renovated in 01/01/2008
· 453 rooms.
· 26 suites.
· 2 floors.
This Hotel's Cancellation Policy
Cancel policy may be more restrictive based on rate / room booked, season, special events


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Posted: Sep 17, 2010 4:35 PM by Russell Jones
Updated: Sep 17, 2010 4:58 PM
Source: WBRZ
Authorities have arrested a Point Coupee man in suspicion of having child pornography.
36-year-old Robin Kimball, Glynn, was arrested Thursday after investigators with the Point Coupee Sheriff's Office and Louisiana State Police searched his home. Detectives said they found a computer with several images of child pornography on it.
Kimball also had a warrant out for issuing worthless checks in Lafayette Parish and was arrested in suspicion of having child pornography. He was booked into the Point Coupee Parish jail.


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The New York State Tobacco Control Program (NY TCP) seeks to:
- promote cessation of tobacco use,
- reduce the social acceptability of tobacco use,
- prevent initiation of tobacco use,
- address disproportionately high rates of tobacco use by specific population groups, and
- eliminate exposure to secondhand smoke.
The NY TCP uses a multi-pronged strategic approach to reduce tobacco use in the population and seeks to impact the population as a whole through:
- Statewide and community action to change the community environment to support the tobacco-free norm, change community attitudes about tobacco, and de-normalize tobacco use. A key outcome of the NY TCP's community mobilization strategy is the adoption and effective implementation of local and statewide policies that permanently change society's acceptance of tobacco use.
- Health communication to increase awareness of the dangers of tobacco use and secondhand smoke and motivate tobacco users to stop; to expose tobacco industry propaganda and de-glamorize tobacco use; and educate community members and decision makers about tobacco control. A key outcome of the NY TCP's health communication strategy is better educated community members and decision makers who will support effective tobacco control policies and take personal action toward a tobacco-free New York.
- Cessation interventions to establish and maintain community, governmental and health care delivery systems that promote cessation, increase access to and delivery of evidence-based cessation services, and motivate individual tobacco users to quit successfully. Key outcomes of the NY TCP's cessation interventions are provision of guideline concordant tobacco dependence treatment by the health care sector and adoption of policies that motivate smokers and other tobacco users to quit.
The NY TCP is supported by surveillance and evaluation activities to monitor program progress and impact, and by program administration to build and maintain an effective tobacco control infrastructure, provide technical assistance and guidance, and manage the effective and efficient investment of state tobacco control funding. The NY TCP strives to contribute to the science of tobacco control through surveillance and evaluation of program initiatives and dissemination of program findings.
The NY TCP is implemented through statewide and community programs directed and managed by staff at the NYSDOH. The NY TCP's strategic plan constitutes the Program's road map and is developed, updated and revised with input from national, state, and local partners. As a state program established in statute and as a member of the National Tobacco Control Program, the NY TCP receives and incorporates programmatic advice and guidance from the statutorily mandated Tobacco Use Prevention and Control Program Advisory Board and from the CDC's Office on Smoking and Health.
The NY TCP is a recognized leader in the National Tobacco Control Program, with many of its interventions and management practices considered models for the nation. Contractors that receive funding from the NY TCP agree to advance the goals, objectives and strategies laid out in the NY TCP Strategic Plan and the guidance documents of the National Tobacco Control Program and agree to invest state funds efficiently to achieve the maximum prevention and reduction of tobacco use. The NY TCP is accountable for the wise investment of both state and federal dollars and must meet specified performance standards for each funder and in turn holds contractors accountable for meeting specific program goals and objectives.
NY TCP Community Action Areas
Community Partnerships for Tobacco Control
Advocacy in Action Programs
Youth Action Programs
Tobacco-Free School Policy Programs
Enforcement of tobacco control laws
All contractors working in the area of community action are expected to contribute to positive tobacco control policy implementation at the organizational, institutional, and municipal levels. Some NY TCP initiatives seek to effect state or national policy change and contractor activities supporting these state and national efforts will be required. Four foci of community action are:
- Government and policymaker education to educate government officials and policymakers to increase the visibility of tobacco control successes, build support for tobacco control action, and increase knowledge about evidence-based tobacco control strategies.
- Advocacy with organizational decision makers to advocate with organizations and institutions, including tobacco retailers, health care organizations, school boards, and parks and recreation officials to adopt policies and resolutions to prevent and reduce tobacco use and promote the tobacco-free norm.
- Community education to build support among community members for tobacco control action, stimulate community demand for tobacco control policies, and demonstrate support for tobacco control initiatives.
- Paid and earned media to advance tobacco control policies and practices by educating the community and key community members and keeping the tobacco problem on the public agenda.
Community Partnerships for Tobacco Control.
Community Partnerships work with local governments and decision makers, local businesses and employers (including tobacco retailers), community organizations, health care institutions and providers, and schools and community groups to address tobacco company advertising, sponsorship and promotion; implement effective tobacco-free policies in the outdoor environment; change public opinion about tobacco and tobacco use; and promote access to evidence-based cessation services. Community Partnerships engage local stakeholders and decision makers, educate community leaders and the public, and mobilize the community to strengthen tobacco-related policies to restrict the tobacco company presence in the community, reduce the use and availability of tobacco products in the community, and limit opportunities for exposure to secondhand smoke. Community Partnerships take a policy advocacy approach to creating communities that support and reinforce the tobacco-free norm and dismantling the community policies and practices that promote and support tobacco use.
Advocacy in Action College Programs.
College advocacy programs engage young adult leaders to work on and off college campuses to limit where and how tobacco products are promoted, advertised and sold, and to advance local and statewide policy action to prevent and reduce tobacco use. Like Community Partnerships, college advocacy programs take a policy advocacy approach to creating communities that support and reinforce the tobacco-free norm and dismantling the community policies and practices that promote and support tobacco use. Advocacy in Action programs focus efforts specifically on those aspects of the community and college environment that most influence tobacco use among young adults.
Youth Action Programs.
Youth Action Programs engage youth leaders to challenge and change community norms regarding tobacco use through civic action. These programs engage middle and high school aged youth in actions aimed at de-glamorizing and de-normalizing tobacco use in their communities and exposing the manipulative and deceptive marketing practices of the tobacco industry. Youth action programs use community education linked to social action, media advocacy, community events, and advocacy with decision makers to obtain pro-tobacco control policies and resolutions at the local, state and national levels.
Tobacco-free School Policy Programs.
These organizations provide resources and support to schools and school districts seeking to develop, implement, and enforce effective tobacco-free school policies. Schools play a key role in creating and supporting healthful attitudes and behaviors among students, their families and members of the community. By creating environments that support and promote tobacco-free values and behaviors, schools can be leaders in the fight for tobacco-free lifestyles for children and adults. Contractors funded to implement Tobacco-free School Policy Programs work to promote and facilitate the adoption and implementation of effective tobacco-free policies.
Enforcement of youth access restrictions.
Supported by the NYSDOH Center for Environmental Health, local activities to enforce the Adolescent Tobacco Use Prevention Act and the Clean Indoor Air Act further change community attitudes about tobacco use as a normative behavior. Educating retailers, businesses and employers about tobacco laws and citing those who violate them put the whole community on notice that youth smoking is something to be prevented and adult smoking is not a normative part of social interaction. These activities can help focus community attention on the issue of youth access to tobacco and exposure to secondhand smoke and provide a call to action to community members. When enforcement reaches a high level of compliance, it may contribute to the prevention and reduction of youth and adult tobacco use.
Public Health Communication
Paid media
Public relations
Media advocacy
Public health communications focused on tobacco include paid placement of advertising on television, radio, print, Internet and other venues, with the goals of educating New Yorkers about the health risks of tobacco use and the dangers of secondhand smoke, motivating tobacco users to stop, and promoting use of the New York State Smokers' Quitline; coverage and discussion of tobacco control issues and events in the news media; and strategic use of both paid and earned media to advocate for tobacco control policies and practices.
- Paid media The NY TCP conducts several media campaigns each year focusing on increasing awareness of the dangers of secondhand smoke and increasing smoke-free homes and cars; motivating smokers to quit by graphically demonstrating the health consequences of smoking and educating smokers how to quit successfully; exposing the manipulative and deceptive marketing practices of the tobacco industry; demanding the removal of smoking and tobacco imagery from youth rated movies; and promoting use of the New York State Smokers' Quitline. Campaigns include advertisements on television, radio, print, Internet, outdoor venues and other media.
- Public relations strategies augment and enhance paid media messages, capture the attention of state and community leaders and decision makers, build support for tobacco control by effectively framing tobacco control issues and keep tobacco control at the top of state and community public health agendas.
- Media advocacy is used to shape the public debate, encourage communities to rethink norms, and educate decision makers in an effort to build support for effective tobacco control action. These public health communication strategies are used at the state and local levels in support of tobacco control action by the NY TCP and community contractors. Community contracts that include a media component should coordinate all components of public health communication (paid media, public relations and media advocacy).
Cessation Interventions
Tobacco Cessation Centers
New York State Smokers Quitline
Safe Nicotine Distribution Program
Tobacco Dependence Treatment Training Program
The most effective interventions to support cessation are raising the price of tobacco products, banning smoking from the work place and public places, and running emotionally evocative paid media campaigns that make a compelling case for quitting.
In addition to these environmental interventions, the NY TCP
• Provides support to health care organizations and providers to establish the policies, practices and procedures to deliver effective tobacco dependence treatment through the work of 19 contracted Tobacco Cessation Centers;
• Offers telephonic and web-based information, resources, coaching and a "starter kit" of nicotine medication to help smokers quit through the New York State Smokers Quitline, operated under contract by the Roswell Park Cancer Institute;
• Maintains a nicotine medication distribution service, providing free overthe- counter nicotine products to smokers via the state Quitline, through local programs administered by local health departments and the cessation centers, and for patients and clients in substance abuse treatment programs; and
• Provides training to substance abuse treatment counselors and administrators on integrating tobacco dependence treatment and tobaccofree policies into substance abuse treatment settings. Training is offered by the Professional Development Program of the SUNY Research Foundation under contract with the NYS Department of Health. Finally, the NYS Department of Health administers the state's Medicaid Program, which offers full coverage of prescription and over-the-counter cessation medication, including bupropion, varenicline, nicotine nasal spray and nicotine patches and gum. Advice, counseling and assistance with quitting are billable through the clinic evaluation and assessment visits.
NY TCP Organizational Structure
Program leadership
Modality management
Contract management
Regional collaboration
New York's Tobacco Control Program is conceived and directed by the state Department of Health and implemented by NY TCP staff and contractors according to expectations established in statute, the NY TCP strategic plan, and oversight and accountability requirements. NY TCP leadership includes the program director and assistant director, and leaders of the community programs unit, the surveillance and evaluation unit, and the procurement and contract management unit.
The NYS Department of Health recognizes four regions within the state: the Metropolitan Region, Capital Region, Central Region and Western Region. The NY TCP convenes contractors regionally for one-day meetings two to three times each year to help keep contractors well informed of the tobacco control work being undertaken in their regions and across the state and to facilitate planning, collaboration and information sharing across modalities.
The NY TCP supports a full surveillance and evaluation team and a contract with an independent evaluator, as required by law. All NY TCP contractors are required to participate in or develop and implement program evaluation activities as directed by the Tobacco Surveillance, Evaluation and Research Team and to provide information as requested to the independent evaluation contractor. Program evaluation ensures that the NY TCP is investing resources wisely, is making progress toward specified goals, and is undertaking program improvements as necessary
Source: NYSDOH RFA #0802281157: Community Partnerships (released July 2008)