text:
Metal Garden Sculptures
Plow Handmade Recycled Metal Giant Praying Mantis Garden Art Sculpture Garden Statuary
Show your fascination for this magnificent creature with our Recycled Metal Giant Praying Mantis Garden Art Sculpture. Handmade from upcycled metal, our Praying Mantis is worthy of a triple-take! Whether perfectly posed as the star of your yard or making himself useful as an accent table, our Handmade Recycled Metal Praying Mantis is a guaranteed attention getter. Watch him turn heads and make for great conversation. Our Recycled Metal Giant Praying Mantis has a large flat back that's the perfect place to showcase a potted plant or to rest drinks. Get creative with our Handmade Recycled Metal Praying Mantis – he's an amazing piece for indoors or out, functional or decorative, serious or whimsical. Part of our exclusive recycled metal art collection, our Giant Praying Mantis is handmade from recycled oil drums by local artisans in Bali. Each one is unique – a great piece of art with a great story! • Oversized giant metal praying mantis metal art sculpture• Makes a can't-miss statement, indoors or out• Conversation piece, artistic sculpture, unique accent table• Handmade, so each one is unique and special• Crafted from recycled oil drums by local artisans in Bali • Vibrant, eye-catching color block designSize79"L X 16"W X 38-1/2"H
Plow Handmade Metal Giant Saxophone Frog Garden Art Sculpture Garden Statuary
Whether you love the sax, frogs or garden art with a whimsical flair, our Handmade Metal Giant Saxophone Frog Garden Art Sculpture. Sure to be a crowd-pleaser, our Giant Saxophone Frog Garden Art commands the stage wherever you place him. He'll steal the show as the star of your yard, garden, patio, porch – or anywhere inside your home. Watch him turn heads and make for great conversation. Our Giant Saxophone Frog Garden Art is a whimsical, fun-loving piece of metal art for indoors or out. Handmade by local artisans in Bali. Each one is unique – a great piece of art with a great story! • Giant metal saxophone-playing frog sculpture• A can't-miss piece of sculpture for indoors or out• Conversation piece, artistic sculpture, uncommon metal art• Handmade, so each one is unique and special• Crafted by local artisans in Bali Size27-1/2"L x 28"W x 68"H
Plow Handmade Hammered Metal Frog Archway Arbor Decorative Structures
Our 7'H Two Frogs Arbor makes an unexpected garden entrance. Each hand-hammered copper-finished frog holds a leafy arched verdigris grape vine. They look as if they're waiting for another frog to join them in jumping rope! Handmade of recycled metal by artisans in Bali.• Frog and vine arbor• Our exclusive design• Whimsical garden entry• Copper frog statues with verdigris vines• Handmade by local artisans in BaliSize59-3/4"W x 17-3/4"D x 85-1/4"H
Plow Handmade Recycled Metal Giant Leaping Frog Garden Art Sculpture Garden Statuary
If your looking for an eye-catching accent for your yard and garden, our Recycled Metal Giant Leaping Frog is just for you. Handmade from recycled metal, our Giant Leaping Frog is large on size, personality and style! Whether sunning himself in your yard or making himself useful as an accent table, our Handmade Recycled Metal Giant Leaping Frog is a sure-fire attention getter. He really turns heads and is a great conversation piece. Our Recycled Metal Giant Leaping Frog has a flat back that's the perfect place to showcase a potted plant or to rest your drink. Get creative with our Handmade Recycled Metal Giant Leaping Frog Garden Art Sculpture – he's a great piece for indoors or out, functional or decorative. Part of our exclusive recycled metal art collection, our Giant Leaping Frog is handmade from recycled oil drums by local artisans in Bali. Each one is unique – a great piece of garden art with a great story! • Oversized giant frog metal art sculpture for home and garden• Makes a great statement indoors or out• Conversation piece, artistic sculpture, unique accent table• Handmade, so each one is unique and special• Crafted from recycled oil drums by local artisans in Bali • A truly unique gift idea Size52"L x 14"W x 17-3/4"H
Plow Extra Large Recycled Metal Frog Planter Gifts for Gardeners
Plow & Hearth ExclusivePut a potted plant in this whimsical Frog Planter, and he's sure to steal the show. Our exclusive oversized fanciful frog is hand crafted of recycled metal for a one-of-a-kind design. Our extra large Frog Planter sports an extra-long, bouncy tongue with a dragonfly as his catch of the day. He's suitable indoors or out, and he'll get noticed anywhere he goes. Handmade in Bali.• Handmade metal frog planter• Indoor or outdoor use• Recycled metal sculpture holds a potted plant• Cute frog has a dragonfly on its tongue• Handcrafted in Bali by local artisansSize32"L x 34"W x 37"H
Plow Recycled Metal Jr. Reading Frog Deck & Patio Accents
Our Reading Frog will look great sitting on a step or bench anywhere in your home or garden. Handmade of recycled metal, our frog statue is as eco-friendly as he is cute, with his spectacles and little metal book. A verdigris finish gives him the perfect look. Made in Bali.• Handmade metal reading frog• Frog statue for yard or garden• Reading frog wears glasses and holds a bookSize23"L x 18-1/2"W x 36"H
Plow Crouching Dragon With Solar Pearl Solar Accents
Our colorful, weather durable Crouching Dragon Solar Garden Sculpture is an impressive sight as he protects his pearl. Let this mighty metal garden sculpture guard your yard or entryway with his courageous face and mystical solar globe. Our dragon statue's pearl, symbolizing spiritual perfection, will absorb the sun's energy during the day to emit a soft, color-changing glow at night. An enchanting gift for dragon lovers or anyone who wants to add magic to their garden spaces! For brightest glow, place in full sun.• Crouching dragon solar garden sculpture• Dragon's pearl glows softly at night• Pearl symbolizes spiritual perfection• Adds magic to any outdoor space• Beautifully detailed metal with painted finishSize19-3/4"L x 15-1/2"W x 18-1/2"H
Plow Iron Dragon Garden Statue With Solar Light Garden Statuary
Add some magic to your landscape with our Dragon Solar Statue. In some cultures, Dragons represent nature, spirituality and the universe. A dragon is sometimes depicted holding a "flaming pearl." Our Iron Dragon Sculpture is ready to keep watch over your home while lighting your path with his solar powered pearl. Place this colorfully painted metal Dragon Sculpture at your driveway, deck or patio and collect compliments on this unusual piece of outdoor artwork. Iron.• Iron dragon sculpture with flaming pearl• Stands over two feet tall• Beautiful outdoor art for yard or garden• Flaming pearl is solar poweredSize19"L x 24-1/2"H x 13-3/4"W
Kinetic Wind Spinner Metal Garden Spinweel 19Diamx64H Boomerang - Regal Art #05238
This Kinetic Wind Spinner Metal Garden Spinweel 19Diamx64H Boomerang - Regal Art #05238 is a stunning wind sculpture that spins with the slightest breeze, much like a child's spin wheel. The spinning motion is mesmerizing to watch, and just viewing the gentle motion helps to de-stress a busy day. Special painting techniques create a 'patina' effect, and the use of richly colored automobile paint sets the finish apart from the competition. Get a variety of heights and shapes to make a really beautiful display in your outdoor garden spaceAvailable Selection Includes: Boomerang - 19in W x 64in H InchesCircle Sun - 19in W x 64in H InchesDbl Pinwheel - 19in W x 64in H InchesFlower Wheel - 19in W x 64in H InchesOpen Flower - 19in W x 64in H InchesRuffled Flower - 19in W x 64in H InchesRegal Art & Gift is the leading manufacturer in the Gift & Garden Industry. Owners Bill and Audrey Costello started the company in 1992 by introducing unique decorative Home & Garden products. Over the past 17 years their exclusive quality product offerings and always-fresh designs have helped the company become the leader in this industry.Size: 19in W x 64in H -- Color: MultiColor
Plow Handmade Wood And Metal Green Frog Statue With Dragonfly Gifts for Gardeners
Our whimsical Handmade Wood And Metal Green Frog Statue With Dragonfly is a fun addition to a deck, patio or garden. Handmade frog statue is crafted of wood with metal hat and eyes; his dragonfly has metal wings. He makes a big impact with his hand painted shades of green and other colors. Hand-crafted so each one is truly unique!• Green frog garden statue• Handmade garden art décor• Wood and metal outdoor statue • Each one is uniqueSize24-3/4"L x 10-1/2"W x 30-3/4"H
Plow Vintage Metal Truck Cab Planter Gifts for Gardeners
Plow & Hearth ExclusiveAdd a truckload of charm to your garden with this vintage Truck Cab Planter. Positioned against a wall and filled with small plants, this truck looks like it's been part of the landscape for years. Crafted of metal with a classic distressed red paint. • Metal truck planter• Vintage style truck cab and hood with distressed finish• Unique outdoor garden container• Yard sculpture in truck motif• Has the look of a found treasureSize24"L x 12-1/2"W x 14-3/4"
Candle Holder, Friends Candle Holders
Friends Candle Holder Welcome these friends to your home and light up your spirit. These friends hold three standard taper candles. Made of recycled steel, and copper tubes for the candles, it is intended to develop a natural patina over time. To delay this process, a clear coat of lacquer or polyurethane may be applied periodically, but we think the aging process adds to the charm of these happy devas! Holder measures 11.75"W x 12"H on a 11.75"W x 4"D base. "I am a self taught artist and business woman. Since the beginning, I have kept my mission clear -- to create positive artwork, following the belief that a joyful spirit leads to a healthier life. And that is how I chose the name of my sculpture company, "Garden Deva"; 'deva' means 'happy spirit' in Sanskrit. I enjoy enlivening heavy, industrial metal with whimsical, positive themes. Lisa uses a plasma torch to design and hand-cut her sculptures, made from recycled steel. She doesn't use any templates or duplicating tools, so each piece is unique. All of her sculptures are hand-made in the US. One of Lisa's favorite quotes is Be possessed of the patience and stability to keep on moving in the directions of your dreams. Lisa Regan was commissioned by the U.S. Postal Service to design and fabricate the menorah used on the 2009 Hanukkah stamp.
Corinthian Butterfly Metal Wall Art Decor Sculpture
Corinthian Butterfly Metal Wall Art Decor Sculpture. Classic metal art piece for any home decor. Catch the new trend in home furnishing. Dimensiom: 39" H x 10" W.
Baby Cocka Doodle Doo Small Rooster : Recycled Metal Animal Garden Art Sculpture
Add more personality to your garden with Baby Cocka Doodle Doo the tiny Rooster. These colorful characters are sure to be a point of interest and conversation among friends and neighbors. You must see the rest of the farm including Roosters, Pigs, Ponies, Goats, Cranes, Swans, Bunnies, and even Old Timey Trucks, Tractors, and Biplanes. Plus much more. Because they are hand-made from 100% reclaimed metals, no two are alike. Each is hand-picked on our buying trips for good colors, posture and form. The colors represented in the photos are a good example of the variation and selection. Yours will be different, but that's what makes them so charming. Adding to their character, you can also expect rustic metals, burnt edges, some rust patina and possibly rough edges. Use caution when handling. Protect from frost.
Plow Metal Sun Spinner Kinetic Garden Sculpture Housewarming Gifts
Let the sunshine spin! Now you can put a bright new spin on your garden décor with this Metal Sun Spinner Kinetic Garden Sculpture standing more than five feet tall. Finished in cheerful orange and yellow outdoor paint, this iron kinetic sculpture is designed with balanced ball bearings for an exceptionally smooth spin. Two wheels of "rays" spin in opposite directions for a mesmerizing effect. Self-stakes in the ground for stability. • Sun-shaped iron wind spinner for lawn, yard or garden • Plow & Hearth Original Design• Double spinning rays• Wonderful focal point for yard and gardenSize20-1/2" dia. x 7"D x 65"H
Plow Ralphie The Dog Metal Garden Statue Garden Statuary
Ralphie the dog is a wonderful companion for decorating your home or garden. This jaunty metal dog statue features a bobbing head and tail that will move in the breeze. He's well dressed too, with his mod textured metal painted sweater in a festive red. This dog sculpture can watch over things with his glass eyes indoors or out.• Metal dog in sweater statue• Ralphie dog sculpture for indoors or out• Glass eyes, head and tail on springs• Sweater is textured metal painted red• Indoor or outdoor useSize20-1/2"W x 17-1/4"H x 6-1/4"L
Plow Recycled Metal Frog Garden Sculpture And Decorative Seasonal Accents Deck & Patio Accents
Plow & Hearth ExclusiveOur exclusive, colorful Metal Frog Garden Sculpture comes with four interchangeable accents depending on his mood: American flag, lily pad, dragonfly or rose. For even more fun, add our optional Set of 4 Accents, which includes a flowers bouquet, balloons, fishing pole with fish and magic wand. Handmade from recycled metal and painted in multi-hued, outdoor-safe paint by artisans in Bali, each fun frog statue is unique, weather resistant, and sure to be treasured. Just give our happy frog a seat, indoors or outdoors, and he'll delight you for years to come.• Colorful seated metal frog with 4 interchangeable accents• Frog comes with American flag, lily pad, dragonfly and rose• Optional set/4: flowers, balloons, fishing pole and wand• Weather-resistant garden art• Each frog statue is unique• Handmade from recycled metal by artisans in BaliDimensionsFrog approx. 8"L x 9-1/4"W x 15-3/4"H
Plow Recycled Metal Laptop Rabbit Yard And Garden Sculpture Garden Statuary
Plow & Hearth ExclusiveFrom his "carrot-brand" laptop to his classic spectacles to his bright red bow tie, our hard-working Laptop Rabbit is guaranteed to make you laugh. Place him indoors or out for a amusing, unexpected accent that will make folks do a double-take. He sits nicely on stairs, garden wall, porch, deck and more. Our Laptop Rabbit is handmade from recycled oil drums in Bali by local artisans. Each one is unique! A great gift for your favorite gardener. • Handmade recycled metal rabbit garden accent• Whimsical accents include "carrot-brand" laptop, round specs and a bright red bow tie• Use him indoors or out• Perfect for porch, patio, garden, tree stump and more• Made in Bali from recycled metal oil drums by local artisans Size15"L x 8"W x 26"H


text:
The MXO2 LE (Desktop) from Matrox is a device designed to provide all the features of an I/O card in a sturdy, portable breakout box. It features both professional audio and video connectivity, and is designed for use with both PC and Intel-based Mac Pro and Apple Xserve desktop systems.
This solution offers broadcast-quality audio and video input & output. Calibration controls include blue-only. You also benefit from a wide variety of HD and SD workflows with Final Cut Studio thanks to Matrox MXO2 LE's 10-bit hardware up/down/cross scaling engine and support for a wide variety of file-based formats and industry-standard codecs.
A different host bus adapter is required for use with a laptop unit and may be purchased separately or as a part of a different MXO2 laptop solution.
Adobe Premiere Pro CS5 support for Mac OSX to be available in early November 2010.
- Key Features
- Works with PCs and Intel-based Mac Pro and Apple Xserve desktop systems
- Lightweight
- Fits in your travel bag
- 4-pin XLR power connector for AC or field battery operation
- HD/SD SDI, HD/SD analog component, Y/C, and composite inputs and outputs
- Genlock - SD analog black burst (bi-level) or HD tri-level sync
- 10-bit HDMI input, output, and monitoring with calibration controls including blue-only
- 10-bit real-time hardware up/down/cross conversion on capture and output
- Up to five user selectable simultaneous video outputs: HD and/or SD on HDMI, SDI, and analog
- RS-422 machine control for frame-accurate capture and print-to-tape
- Captures to a variety of codecs: Apple ProRes 422 HQ, 10-bit uncompressed HD, and many more
- File-based workflow support - XDCAM, XDCAM HD, XDCAM EX, P2, P2HD
- RED workflow support
- HD-SDI closed captioning support
- Works with Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere Pro, Apple Color, Adobe After Effects and all QuickTime applications that support the V-out component
- Three-year hardware warranty and complimentary telephone support from Matrox
- Portable
- Matrox MXO2 LE is portable I/O device for PC and Mac platforms. It fits into your carry bag and connects directly to standard field batteries or the included AC power adapter.
- HD and SD Inputs & Outputs
- Matrox MXO2 LE features professional inputs and outputs. RS-422 machine control is provided for frame-accurate capture and print-to tape with Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere Pro. A 4-pin XLR power connection is provided for AC or field battery operation. Up to five user selectable simultaneous video outputs, HD and/or SD on HDMI, SDI, and analog are supported.
- Genlock
- Matrox MXO2 LE provides SD analog black burst (bi-level) or HD trilevel sync genlock. It can genlock to any type of video input or to house sync. Timing offset controls can be used to align your video output relative to your external genlock source to compensate for cable delays within your facility.
- Capture to a Variety of Codecs
- Matrox MXO2 LE lets you capture to HD and SD codecs supported by Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere Pro. On a Quad-Core MacPro, you can capture HD to ProRes 422 HQ, DVCPRO HD, DV, DVCPRO, and DVCPRO50. On systems equipped with proper storage you can capture uncompressed 8- and 10-bit HD.
- File-Based Formats
- Matrox MXO2 LE lets you work with file-based formats such as XDCAM, XDCAM HD, XDCAM EX, P2, and P2HD. You can play out these formats directly from Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere Pro. No intermediate codec is needed. Matrox MXO2 LE lets you play out these formats from a PC or MacBook Pro without dropping frames.
- RED Workflow
- RED users can benefit from Matrox MXO2 LE to capture, monitor, and playback on set. Back in the post suite, they can use Matrox MXO2 LE to work with 1K and 2K RED timelines and output to SD, 720, or 1080 via MXO2 LE's real-time 10-bit hardware scaling feature.
- HD-SDI Closed-Captioning Support
- You will no longer need to spend time and money recreating HD captioning data that is typically lost when editing projects in Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro. Matrox MXO2 LE offers a unique workflow to capture, playback, and preserve closed captioning data while editing. Nothing is destroyed even when trimming or color correcting video clips. In addition, Matrox has worked with CPC, the closed captioning software leader, to develop an innovative solution that allows the MacCaption software to encode, decode, edit, and create HD and SD closed captioning for use with Matrox MXO2 LE. Matrox MXO2 LE also provides a cost effective way to monitor HD timelines containing closed captioning data on SDI and component SD monitors, while also inserting closed captioning information into line 21 of active video for SD deliverables. You can deliver HD and SD masters containing closed captions simultaneously.
- HD & SD Video Monitoring
- Matrox MXO2 LE turns your HDMI monitor into a true-color video display you can trust, even for color grading. It's packed with features that make it the ideal monitoring solution for Final Cut Pro, Apple Color, Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe After Effects, and other QuickTime-based applications. You won't need to buy expensive HD monitoring equipment. In addition, MXO2 LE's real-time downscaling feature lets you view your HD projects on an SD monitor.
- HDMI Monitoring with 10-bit 4:2:2 Color Precision
- Matrox MXO2 LE lets you adjust and control your HDMI monitor exactly like you would a broadcast HD/SD monitor. Controls for hue, chroma, contrast, brightness, and blue-only are provided. This unique control gives you accurate color representation so that you can use your HDMI monitor even for color grading.
- Pixel-to-Pixel Mapping on HDMI Display
- Matrox MXO2 LE provides 1:1 pixel mapping on HDMI monitors that support this feature.
- Real-Time Conversion, Capture & Output
- Matrox MXO2 LE lets you deliver in any format your clients demand. The 10-bit hardware scaling provides high-quality mastering.
- HD to SD Downscaling
- Matrox MXO2 LE provides real-time HD to SD downscaling with proper conversion of the HD color space to the SD color space and proper aspect ratio conversion to anamorphic, letterbox, and center cut. You can monitor or record an SD master of your HD project in real-time.
- SD to HD Upscaling
- Matrox MXO2 LE provides real-time SD to HD upscaling with proper conversion of the SD color space to the HD color space. MXO2 LE will "pillarbox" 4:3 footage and scale 16:9 SD footage to full screen.
- Cross Conversion
- Matrox MXO2 LE offers real-time cross conversions from 720 to 1080 and 1080 to 720. Real-time frame rate conversion is also supported with 2:3:2:3 and 2:3:3:2 cadences. This feature is useful if, for example, your source material is recorded at a different frame rate or resolution than the delivery format your client requires. It also facilitates monitoring when, for example, you need to work with 23.98 fps footage but your monitor does not support that frame rate. You can use MXO2 LE's real-time frame rate conversion to view your project at 29.97 fps. Conversion from 23.98 fps to 25 fps is handled by your NLE and the host.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Skip Links | Access/General | Site Map | |||||
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Lancaster University |
You are here: Home > | |||||
EventsNewsSubscribe to News and Events |
Kevin Watson & Lynn Clark give paper at the 'Variation and Language Processing' ConferenceDate: 11 April 2011 Kevin Watson & Lynn Clark give a paper at the first 'Variation and Language Processing' conference (VaLP2011), being held at the University of Chester. See here for the programme:http://sites.google.com/site/valp2011/programme. The talk is entitled: 'Capturing listeners' real-time reactions to local and supra local linguistic features', and reports some early results from the ESRC funded project 'Phonological levelling, diffusion and divergence in Liverpool and its hinterland'. News website: http://www.lancs.ac.uk/fass/projects/phono_levelling/index.htm Further informationAssociated staff: Lynn Clark, Kevin Watson Associated projects: Phonological levelling, diffusion & divergence in Liverpool and its hinterland Associated departments and research centres: Language Variation and Linguistic Theory (LVLT), Linguistics and English Language |
| Home | Departments | People | Study Here | Research | Business and Enterprise | News and Events | - FASS Intranet - |
Save this page: Del.icio.us Reddit Facebook Stumble It! |


text:
here's some photos from earlier this morning:
here's some photos from earlier this morning:
Nathan, they are great !!! (just one question, did you crop the tail off, or were you that close? As I have a camera just like yours, I have it always extended to 300mm) ) No1 is very good, although the bird is behind the branche, the focus is on the bird. Well done !!!. Did you use AF, or manual? You will get to know your new camera in no time. I think all of us will follow your progress.
I was very close to the kookaburra in the first and last photo M-L,i probably should of zoomed out a little bit
as for AF,i always use it - i simply cannot get the hang of handling the focus ring + the lense
NathanY - Perth,W.A.
Term and Conditions | Privacy Statement | Web Support by Gaia Resources Hosted by Serversaurus |


text:
3 people found this review helpful
GIRLS ONLY MINISTRY Reviews
Invite reviews
Invite friends and colleagues to share their experiences with this nonprofit
September 7, 2012
3 people found this review helpful
I an honored to contribute to Girls Only . They way that is organization reaches out to young women in the surrounding community and makes a difference in their lives goes above and beyond what I ever expected. Lives are changed, hearts are mended, strength is found, new beginnings are created. I could go on and on, but it would be better for you to see it first hand, to experience the Vision and the difference that is being created here. God bless!
More feedback...
Was your donation impactful?
How likely is it that you would recommend that a friend donate to this group?
How likely are you to donate to this group again?
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
Previous |
Filter by reviewer role:
Support This Nonprofit
Help this nonprofit get more reviews
5 tips for getting reviews


text:
Staten Island Vipers
Ayanna A. Phillip Owner, Executive Vice President & COO email@example.com facebook.com/kabp32 Twitter.com/kabp32 Instagram.com/kabp32 |
Ayanna is an Executive Assistant & Graphic Design Specialist at AIG. She is a mother of a beautiful 11 year old daughter, Kiana Brereton. A graduate of Seton Hall University, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Advertising Art and Graphic Design, achieved a Web Design Certificate and made the Dean's List. Ayanna is very versatile and has experience in many fields.
Ayanna was Assistant Coach at Georgian Court University, an all-girl's college in Lakewood, NJ. As a Pirate she finished in 7th-place on the Seton Hall all-time list with 98 career blocks, Captain of her team, Big East Academic All-Stars 2003-2005 and received the Pirates Female Hustle Award in 2005. In high school, Ayanna led St. Peter's to four straight Staten Island championships and Archdiocesan championships. A three-time Staten Island Advance All-Star. Named MVP of the Jacques Game (Staten Island All-Stars). Also ran track for two years, a member of the 4x100 meter relay team and was borough champion in the long jump. |
Kyle A. Brereton |
Jonee Billy Marketing Director email@example.com |
My Life's journey has been one of joy, sadness, laughter and tears. One of the aspects of my life that has proven to be the most rewarding has been my involvement in sports. I have always been an active young woman and parleyed my skills on the basketball court for my academic, social and professional advancement. From a student-athlete at Mount Holyoke College, to a professional athlete in Szombathely, Hungary, to proudly representing Trinidad & Tobago in international competitions, I have proven to be a tenacious and dynamic team player with an innate sense of determination and dedication to excel.
My ultimate goal is to take the knowledge and skills sets that I have honed over the years and transfer it toward the business end of the sports industry. I know that once my playing days come to a halt, I would love to continue a career managing athletes' careers. Having an up close and personal understanding of the things that professional athletes endure on a daily level, especially women in sports, I feel duty bound to at the very least attempt to enact some change. The Sports and Entertainment industry continues to expand and people all around the world are engrossed in this manifestation. A lot has been done but there are many more hurdles to cross and I would love nothing more than to help these athletes achieve their goals as well.
Michael Pallas |


text:
State Reports On MTBE
These resources provide state-specific information about methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE). In addition, links to organizations with MTBE-related resources are provided. For more MTBE topics, return to the MTBE main page.
- UST Program Interim Policy for Methyl Tertiary-Butyl Ether (MTBE) in Groundwater (PDF) (3 pp, 15K, About PDF) 2002.
Prepared by Arizona's Department of Environmental Quality, this report provides policy guidance related to MTBE ground water contamination.
- California Leaking Underground Fuel Tank (LUFT) Historical Case Analyses (PDF) (63 pp, 726K, About PDF) 1995.
Prepared by the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB), the goal of this study is to support the revision of California's leaking underground fuel tank (LUFT) corrective action process. Analysis of case historical data, including information on fate and transport and impacts of releases, is presented. - California MTBE Research Partnership Reports 2008.
This Web page presents a bibliography of downloadable reports related to treatment technologies for MTBE, prepared by the California MTBE Research Partnership. - Executive Summary of the Supply and Cost of Alternatives to MTBE in Gasoline Undated.
Prepared by California's Energy Commission, this report explores a number of issues related to MTBE alternatives, including relevant legislation, incentive programs, consumer demand, and biomass resources. - Fueling and Refueling Practices at California Marinas (PDF) (34 pp, 86K, About PDF) 1999.
The purpose of this Advisory Panel report is to determine if any additional upgrades to fueling practices at marinas should be made in order to eliminate releases of MTBE. - Geotracker--Geographic Environmental Information Management System 2008.
Maintained by California's State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB), GeoTracker is a geographic information system that provides online access to environmental data, including well, tank, and pipeline data from across of California. - Leak History of New and Upgraded UST Systems (PDF) (8 pp, 20K, About PDF) 1999.
This Advisory Panel report presents the results of a review of existing data on UST contamination sites to determine if there is a leak history associated with UST systems meeting the 1998 federal and state standards. - Leak Source and Leak Detection Data Collection and Analysis (PDF) (27 pp, 90K, About PDF) 1999.
This UST Team 3 report examines whether the standards for new and upgraded UST systems are adequate to protect water resources from MTBE contamination. - MTBE in California Drinking Water 2008.
Prepared by California's Department of Public Health, this Web page includes drinking water standards, maximum contaminant levels, and comprehensive evaluation of health and environmental effects of MTBE and other oxygenates. - MTBE In Drinking Water 2005.
Prepared by the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA), this Web page provides MTBE-related legislation and cleanup information for California stakeholders. - State Water Resources Control Board's Panel On the Leak History of New and Upgraded UST Systems - Oxygenate Compability and Permeability Report (PDF) (18 pp, 61K, About PDF) 1999.
This UST Team 1 report presents the results of a literature review and industry survey to explore the compatibility of oxygenates, including methanol, ethanol, MTBE, ETBE, TAME, and DIPE, with materials used in underground storage tank systems. - State Water Resources Control Board's Panel On the Leak History of New and Upgraded UST Systems - Upgrade UST Release Site Evaluation Case Studies (PDF) (44 pp, 143K, About PDF) 1999.
This UST Team 2 report presents the results of an evaluation of upgraded UST sites where MTBE was present in the subsurface, in order to determine site-specific factors resulting in a release of MTBE. - Upgraded UST Release Site Evaluation Case Studies (PDF) (44 pp, 143K, About PDF) 1999.
This UST Team 2 report presents the results of an evaluation of upgraded UST sites where MTBE was present in the subsurface, in order to determine site-specific factors resulting in a release of MTBE.- Appendix II (Site Information) (PDF) (10 pp, 20K, About PDF)
- Appendix II (Site Information) (PDF) (10 pp, 20K, About PDF)
- Evidence for Contamination of Heating Oil and Diesel Fuel with MTBE (PDF) (2 pp, 171K, About PDF) Undated.
Published in L.U.S.T. Line, a technical newsletter for underground storage tank stakeholders, this article discusses research conducted by the University of Connecticut Hydrogeology Program which provides evidence for widespread contamination of heating oil and diesel fuel with MTBE. - Robbins, G.A. and P. Zack. Connecticut Survey Finds MTBE-Contaminated Heating Oil and Diesel Fuel Statewide. June 2000. L.U.S.T. Line, Bulletin 35, pg 24-25.
- Use of Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE) As A Gasoline Additive 2004.
In this report to the Connecticut General Assembly on the use of MTBE, the Department of Environmental Protection outlines five recommendations for dealing with MTBE as a gasoline additive.
- MtBE (Methyl Tertiary-Butyl Ether) Occurrence in Florida Drinking Water Systems Undated.
This Web page, prepared by Florida's Department of Environmental Protection, provides information and links to resources related to MTBE in Florida.
- Requirements for Sampling and Analysis of Methyl tert-Butyl Ether on Soil and Groundwater at Underground Storage Tank Release Investigation Sites
(PDF) (17 pp, 1.4MB, About PDF) 1998.
Prepared by Hawaii's Department of Health, this report provides guidance related to MTBE contamination, sampling, and analysis at LUST sites.
- An Evaluation of Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE) in Groundwater at Leaking Underground Storage Tank Sites (PDF) (13 pp, 3.2MB, About PDF) 1999.
Prepared by the Idaho Division of Environmental Quality, this study evaluates the threat to ground water posed by MTBE from releases at leaking underground storage tank sites in Idaho.
- MTBE Occurrence in Iowa (PDF) (31 pp, 90K, About PDF) 2000.
Published by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, this report presents the results of research on the presence and concentration of MTBE in Iowa's soil and ground water and a determination on whether the occurrence and levels are significant to warrant regulatory action.
- The Presence of MTBE and Other Gasoline Compounds in Maine's Drinking Water - A Preliminary Report 1998.
Published by Maine's Bureau of Health, Bureau of Waste Management and Remediation, and Geological Survey, this report presents the preliminary findings from a study of statewide MTBE occurrence in Maine's drinking water.
- Maryland's MTBE Journey: As States Continue to Tackle the MTBE Problem on Their Own (PDF) (32 pp, 792K, About PDF) 2005.
Published in L.U.S.T. Line, a technical newsletter for underground storage tank stakeholders, this article presents information on MTBE in Maryland, including tracking, sources, and regulations. - Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE) and Clean Gasoline Alternatives Report to the
Senate Education, Health, and Environmental Affairs Committee and the
House Environmental Matters Committee, January 2006
(74 pp, 325K , About PDF) 2006.
Prepared by Maryland's Department of the Environment, this report provides information related to MTBE in the state, including water impacts, the governor's task force, and health and environmental impacts. - The Task Force on the Environmental Effects of Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE), Final Report, December 2001 (PDF) (33 pp, 347K , About PDF) 2001.
Prepared by a task force consisting of 16 members from government agencies, the petroleum and ethanol industries, and health-related professions, this report presents information on MTBE-related issues and recommendations to minimize and counteract MTBE's environmental and health risks.
- MTBE Report by Michigan Department of Agriculture (PDF) (4 pp, 30K, About PDF) 2000.
Prepared by Michigan's Department of Agriculture, this report provides background on MTBE in Michigan, including its use, presence in gasoline blends, and detection in the state's environment and drinking water.
Multi-State Reports
- Ramsden, D.K. and P. Hicks. The National Groundwater Quality Assessment and MTBE Trends. Soil Sediment & Groundwater. July/August 2002.
This article evaluates MTBE trends in the National Water Quality Assessment. - Report on Inter-Agency Meetings on MTBE, September 2000 (PDF) (17 pp, 62K , About PDF) 2000.
This report presents the outcome of inter-agency meetings regarding MTBE. - Summary Report on a Survey of State Experiences with MTBE and Other Oxygenate Contamination at LUST Sites (PDF) (30 pp, 105K, About PDF) 2003.
Published by the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission (NEIWPCC), this report presents the results of a survey of states and territories to determine how MTBE and other oxygenate contamination affects state LUST programs and the cleanup of contaminated sites. This is a follow up to the original 2000 survey. - Survey of State Experiences with MTBE Contamination at LUST Sites (PDF) (6 pp, 25K, About PDF) 2000.
Published by the NEIWPCC, this report presents the results of a survey of 50 states on the effect of MTBE contamination on state LUST programs and the cleanup of contaminated sites. - Thomson, J.A.M. and J.W. McKinley. MTBE Occurrence in Surface and Groundwater. Soil Sediment & Groundwater. July/August 2002.
This article summarizes state and regional studies of MTBE in surface and ground water.
- NDEP Oxygenated Fuel Corrective Action Guidance 2007.
Prepared by Nevada's Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP), this policy provides guidance on the cleanup of oxygenated fuel additives.
New Hampshire
- Gasoline in New Hampshire 2008.
Prepared by New Hampshire's Department of Environmental Services, this Web page provides links to a variety of publications on gasoline-related issues. - MtBE in Drinking Water (PDF) (3 pp, 61K, About PDF) 2009.
Prepared by New Hampshire's Department of Environmental Services, this fact sheet provides information related to MTBE contamination in New Hampshire's drinking water, including health effects, remediation, and DES assistance. - Moyer, E.E., J.A. Erickson, and F.J. McGarry. Correlation of MTBE Detections in New Hampshire Public Water Systems with Documented Potential Petroleum Sources. Soil Sediment & Groundwater. July/August 2002.
This article explores the correlation between MTBE contamination and petroleum sources in New Hampshire. - Tracking Troubling Vapor Releases in New Hampshire (PDF) (6 pp, 152K, About PDF) 2004.
Published in L.U.S.T. Line, a technical newsletter for underground storage tank stakeholders, this article explores issues surrounding increasing levels of MTBE found at New Hampshire gas station sites where other contaminants were stable or decreasing.
New Jersey
- MTBE In New Jersey's Environment (PDF) (48 pp, 534K, About PDF) Undated.
Prepared by New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection, this report summarizes and evaluates available information relevant to the use of MTBE in New Jersey and its occurrence in New Jersey's environment. Federal requirements, New Jersey regulatory standards, permit limits, monitoring requirements, data on occurrence, and background information are presented.
New York
- Analysis of the Gasoline Spill at East Patchoque, New York (PDF) (13 pp, 147K, About PDF) 1996.
Published in the 1996 Proceedings of Aqueous Phase Liquids NAPLS in Subsurface Environment: Assessment and Remediation, this paper presents the results of research on MTBE and other contaminant plumes at a release from a service station in East Patchogue, Long Island, New York. - Characteristics of Gasoline Releases in the Water Table Aquifer of Long Island (PDF) (11 pp, 42K, About PDF) 1999.
Prepared by the New York Department of Environmental Conservation with input from EPA, this paper summarizes observations from four gasoline release cases in Long Island. - USEPA MTBE Pilot Project Report: Objective 2 2008.
Prepared by New York's Department of Environmental Conservation, this report presents the results of a pilot study to better define the extent of MTBE contamination stemming from previously unidentified and/or unreported MTBE blended gasoline releases throughout the Long Island aquifer system.
- MTBE Concentrations in Ground Water in Pennsylvania (PDF) (50 pp, 5.8MB, About PDF) 2003.
This U.S. Geological Survey report examines MTBE occurrence in Pennsylvania aquifers and near release sites.
- Occurrence of Methyl Tertiary-Butyl Ether (MTBE) in Groundwater at Leaking Underground Storage Tank Sites in Washington (PDF) (23 pp, 106K, About PDF) 2000.
Prepared by Washington's Department of Ecology, this report presents the results of a study assessing the occurrence and concentrations of MTBE in Washington's ground water in order to determine the need for regulatory action to protect public health and the environment.


text:
Connecticut College News
10/18/2010Nominate an alum to the Alumni Board
The Nominating Committee of the Connecticut College Alumni Association is accepting nominations for the Board of Directors for 2011-2012 and beyond.
Candidates should have a passion for fostering connections among alumni, and between alumni and the College. Members are confirmed by the alumni body. They serve three-year terms and meet on campus three times a year.
To submit a nomination, e-mail Bridget McShane, director of Alumni Relations or call her at 1-800-888-7549. The Nominating Committee will review nominations and recommend a slate to the Board of Directors.
International Directory
This winter the College will publish a directory of international alumni for alumni who live outside the United States. The directory will be available by e-mail.
Alumni who have indicated they are interested in being listed should have gotten an e-mail last month to confirm their contact information. If you didn't get the e-mail and want to be included, please contact the Office of Alumni Relations.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Deborah MacDonnell (860) 439-2504, firstname.lastname@example.com


text:
Home > Bathroom > Toilets, Seats & Bidets > Toilet Seats > Cadet 3 Slow Close Toilet Seat
This style-matched seat from our classic Cadet® collection also goes well with other timeless and transitional designs. The kid-safe design closes gently and never slams. And its EverClean® permanent finish inhibits the growth of stain and odor-causing bacteria, mold and mildew on the surface so the seat and cover stay cleaner, longer.
Estimated List Price: $68 - $89
Estimated List Price: $65 - $99
We're sorry, we are not offering any repair parts for this product through our online Repair Parts store at this time.


text:
Insurance in South Africa is a necessity these days and not a luxury anymore. Unfortunately the reality is that with the high crime rate, high road accident count and changing circumstances you should be prepared for any event that might cross your path unexpectedly.
GetInsurance is a website that guides you with information that will help you understand all the jargon that comes with short and long term insurance. Our goal is to provide you with free advice on how to get the best insurance deal at the best price, whether you are looking for car insurance, household insurance, motorcycle insurance or life insurance.
What you can expect on this website:
- Getting and Comparing Quotes
- How to get the most out of you insurance policy
- Taking a look at the different types of insurance
General Insurance Information
- Insurance South Africa
- Understanding Insurance Quotes
- Why should you get online insurance quotes?
- How to save money and get a cheap insurance policy
Life Insurance
Your family and loved ones are the most important people in your life. Make sure that you provide for them in case of unforseen circumstances.
Household Insurance
South Africa has a high crime rate, and insuring your valuable possessions are one of the first things you should think about.
Car Insurance
With the high road accident rate in South Africa you cannot afford to be without decent car insurance. We will make it easy for you.


text:
rabid try's some sweet seeds. With many thanks
Posted 11 January 2012 - 01:18 AM
So first off i would like to thank sweets seeds for the fantastic free seeds Hopefully they will be my wee bit of happiness in a few months time.
Unfortunately i have been unable to upgrade my lights, due to being a wee bit on the skint side So will only be able to grow 3 to 4 plants. Obviously i will be using one of each strain and doubt i will be able to do another one by the end of the comp deadline, but due to life being life was unable to get a diary done any earlier
Not sure what the rules say about only using 3or4 of the seeds given does that matter ? holly feck i should have read the rules a bit better
anyway it don't matter because as you will see i would not have had a hope in hell of being any where in the comp.
So hear we are then wow. just before i get into the old nity grity. I would like to say that although i have been lurking about this site for a wee while now. i am not a good grower ,yet! but will give it my best shot with what i have. Oh and wait till ye see ma pictures
jack 47,sweet tai, cream caramel.
westlands multi with added J.I
Grow area
90x60x150 i think? tent
1) blue enviro, 1)250 watt hps
what ever i can afford when the time comes.
Out take
4inch ruck and filter,mounted in my loft.
4inch fan active intake
That is as technical as it gets. Popped the seeds into there wee pots on Saturday
about a cm under the soil stuck them under the 125watt blue cfl. waited and bada bing they popped there bootyfull heads this morning 4 in total. 1sweet tai,1cream caramel,2jack47. light is on 24hours at the moment. Give it a couple more days and i will drop time to 18/6.
So that's my wee diary on the go then. Hope i do them justice and hope any one reading enjoys my journey into the world of sweet seeds.
Just before i go and try and upload pictures. Just a wee warning that im not very good with grammar and all that,nor am i any good with technology. Also i will be posting nonsense on a regular basis and don't take things to serious(apart from this glorious competition all hail sweet seeds) Thank you to anyone taking time to read this. Christ you must be bored
[attachment=530635:3.jpg][attachment=530636:sweet seeds 2.jpg][attachment=530638:sweet seeds.jpg][attachment=530638:sweet seeds.jpg]
who the feck is steve?
Posted 11 January 2012 - 07:26 AM
Posted 11 January 2012 - 10:31 AM
Posted 11 January 2012 - 01:58 PM
Posted 11 January 2012 - 02:06 PM
And on the streets of hometown now, we watch each other as if we're strangers. But say it loud, scream it loud: I am not at war
We're better than them
Posted 11 January 2012 - 03:59 PM
Thanks monkeymagic for dropping by. Starting the diary is the easy bit. its finishing the dam thing that's the hard part hopefully its ok to do the comp the way i am and if its not that's ok too. Would still like to continue the diary even if it is void.Alright rabid, nice start to your diary, i did one each of six strains last year so i think it's ok, goodest of luck with your grow
Cheers mate. wouldn't be to sure man.Good luck man, sure you'll do a fine job!
cheers billbudGreat start Atb
Just hope i can do them justice hiphip ma man. Nice of you to swing byGreat start Rabid. Tai and J47. Lovely, there's a lot of these strains about this year. All the best with the comp mucker.
Will post a few more pictures up later. All seems well with the little ones so far .
Posted 11 January 2012 - 04:17 PM
Cant wait to see what 'specials' you bring us!
Best of luck, Dodgee
ed spelling
Edited by dodgee5, 11 January 2012 - 04:58 PM.
plant a word and reap an action;
plant an action and reap a habit;
plant a habit and reap a character;
plant a character and reap a destiny.
Posted 11 January 2012 - 04:38 PM
Posted 11 January 2012 - 05:16 PM
Hope you enjoy your sweets, they're looking good so far and it seems that you have everything prepared to give them a good life
Good luck my friend. I'll keep passin by, sweet regards,
Posted 11 January 2012 - 05:33 PM
Have you considered the Plant Magic Grow and Bloom for the nutrients when you need it?, real good stuff in my opinion.
Posted 11 January 2012 - 10:31 PM
Thanks dodgee, i think the special moments have already fookin started this is the third fecking time i have typed out these bloody replies. First time i done them {there was some bloody witty stuff in it too } types it all out feeling rather proud of me self. Then presses the wrong fooking key and wipped the full lot. Feccking comedy genius it was too . So goes for it a second time and was unable to post, because "apparently" i had to many opening quotes and not enough closing quotes FFS WTF does that mean SPEACIAL INDEEDProper buzzin you started a diary rabid mate!!
Cant wait to see what 'specials' you bring us!
Best of luck, Dodgee
ed spelling
Cheers for that paulolxGood luck with them all rabid
Thanks Tommy what can i say apart from thanks for the opportunityNice one rabid Welcome to the 3rd Sweet Seeds Grow Diary Competition
Hope you enjoy your sweets, they're looking good so far and it seems that you have everything prepared to give them a good life
Good luck my friend. I'll keep passin by, sweet regards,
nice of you to drop by mate. It will all depend on the pennies being there but ifCongratulations on the babies coming through rabid and all the best with the grow.
Have you considered the Plant Magic Grow and Bloom for the nutrients when you need it?, real good stuff in my opinion.
the funds are there that's what im going for. It seems to be the choice of allot of good growers on here. cheers
Now for a few more pictures. I got shot of the blue cfl and put them under the hps.
[attachment=530872:IMAG0524.jpg] [attachment=530873:IMAG0528.jpg][attachment=530874:IMAG0529.jpg] [attachment=530875:IMAG0530.jpg]
first two are Jack 47. then cream caramel. And sweet tai.
I have been at this so long tonight my arse feels like it has fell off and my me left leg has went numb. cheers
#12 _Thicky_
Posted 11 January 2012 - 10:44 PM
Hope all is good with you health-wise. Cracking seeds you have chosen mate I am sure you will have plenty company in here - I expect Seasick Steve will be along soon
Best of luck sweetie-pie
Posted 11 January 2012 - 10:52 PM
Ah! thicky. not spoke to you in a wee while hope all is good whith you too Things are ok. Im just glad to be growing again.Woooohooo!!! and here you finally are rabid !!!
Hope all is good with you health-wise. Cracking seeds you have chosen mate I am sure you will have plenty company in here - I expect Seasick Steve will be along soon
Best of luck sweetie-pie
Posted 13 January 2012 - 01:03 AM
Aw the best man.
Sweet Seeds Autos - +Speed, Blackjack and S.A.D.
Cream Caramel Auto x3 - Sweet Seeds Comp Diary - Complete
G13 Labs Hypnotic - complete
Tangerine Dream, Kannabia Afrodite and Kandy Kush - Second Grow - complete
Posted 13 January 2012 - 12:51 PM
Cheers gland. Thanks for dropping in . mate I Fuckin love your avatar . Brilliant !Hey Rabid, good start to the diary, long may it continue
Aw the best man.
0 user(s) are reading this topic
0 members, 0 guests, 0 anonymous users


text:
Answers: Disadvantages:
Can be difficult to learn.
Requires multiple entries for like peas in a pod transaction.
More prone to mistakes.
Finding mistakes can take longer.
Compare to single-entry or pegboard accounting systems for citation. Single-entry is faster to learn, but offer less flexibility and mostly requires a smaller Chart of Accounts.
Basically, you are looking at a difference between using Quicken and Quickbooks (single-entry vs. double-entry).
Good luck!


text:
Who's on first? Hearing shows GSA's dysfunctionBy Tom Cohen, CNNUpdated 5:54 PM ET, Tue April 17, 2012Just WatchedBipartisan outrage over GSA scandalreplayMore Videos ...Bipartisan outrage over GSA scandal 02:58Story highlights The management structure of the GSA comes under scrutiny A House committee holds a second hearing on the GSA spending scandal The panel's Republican chairman says the problem may be systemic A GSA official declines to appear, based on his right against self-incriminationAfter a preliminary report last year that detailed spending and travel abuses, and even after a final report in February that showed Jeff Neely may have illegally wasted government funds, no one stopped him from taking more trips on the federal dime.The failure to prevent the General Services Administration official from squandering more government money before finally putting him on administrative leave in March was a central focus of a House committee hearing Tuesday on overspending at the federal procurement agency.Neely declined to show up for Tuesday's session of the House Transportation Committee, claiming his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination in the investigation of a 2010 conference he organized at a Las Vegas casino for the GSA's Western Region that cost more than $800,000, as well as other abuses.The controversy, which includes allegations by an inspector general of personal travel under the thin guise of government business and an employee award program that exceeded spending limits, so far has focused on one region of the massive GSA -- an agency with a multibillion-dollar budget and thousands of employees.Coming in an election year, the scandal has become a political focal point, with Republicans seeking to frame it as a reflection of big government abuse while Democrats say the problem involved a few bad players rather than a rotten system.Either way, the lasting image from Tuesday's hearing, which lasted more than five hours, was past and present GSA officials trying to explain a complex management structure that proved unable to respond quickly to misconduct cited by the inspector general's report.For example, the panel heard that the GSA's chief financial officer lacked direct oversight of spending by the agency's regional structures. It also learned that Neely reported to two supervisors at the time of his alleged misconduct -- one of them himself, as Neely was holding the post on an interim basis.Just WatchedGSA hearing chair: People will go to jailreplayMore Videos ...GSA hearing chair: People will go to jail 01:52PLAY VIDEOJust WatchedCummings: New GSA admin. has to clean upreplayMore Videos ...Cummings: New GSA admin. has to clean up 03:07PLAY VIDEOJust WatchedGOP lawmaker alleges GSA scandal coverupreplayMore Videos ...GOP lawmaker alleges GSA scandal coverup 02:05PLAY VIDEOJust Watched'Who the heck is the watchdog?'replayMore Videos ...'Who the heck is the watchdog?' 01:01PLAY VIDEO"This is an agency whose structure makes no sense," said the committee's ranking Democrat, Eleanor Holmes Norton, the delegate to Congress from the District of Columbia.Neely's other supervisor, Robert Peck, was fired April 2 after the inspector general's report came out. At Tuesday's hearing, Peck came under tough questioning over his stated lack of awareness of the spending excesses at the Las Vegas conference, which he attended, as well as his recommendation of a bonus for Neely after the conference.Later, the GSA administrator who resigned April 2 due to the controversy told how she held several meetings at the White House in the last two weeks of March to discuss the problem. Asked if she received guidance or orders at those meetings on how to proceed, Martha Johnson said she was explaining to White House officials how the GSA works."The meetings were about helping them understand what Mrs. Norton is so concerned about," Johnson said. "... They don't understand the internal workings of GSA."Committee Chairman Jeff Denham, a freshman Republican from California, opened Tuesday's hearing by asserting that the inappropriate actions cited by the inspector general's report may go well beyond the GSA."The purpose of this committee is to talk about the systemic problem: how deep it goes, the corruption, the fraud, the waste," Denham said. "It is not within the Western Region but within GSA as a whole and possibly within other agencies."However, the GSA inspector general whose report set off the controversy said the only serious wrongdoing uncovered so far was in the region that held the Las Vegas conference organized by Neely. At the same time, Inspector General Brian Miller said his team is looking at possible problems in other areas.The GSA official who first raised questions about overspending at the Las Vegas conference said she supported the findings of the government investigation and the steps taken in response to the controversy."I share your anger and disappointment in GSA's conduct," said Susan Brita, a GSA deputy administrator.Just WatchedIssa: GSA waste shows bureaucratic flawsreplayMore Videos ...Issa: GSA waste shows bureaucratic flaws 01:47PLAY VIDEOJust WatchedLawmakers rip into GSA officialsreplayMore Videos ...Lawmakers rip into GSA officials 03:30PLAY VIDEOJust WatchedGSA commissioner takes the FifthreplayMore Videos ...GSA commissioner takes the Fifth 01:57PLAY VIDEONorton said that as bad as the problem was, the system designed to uncover such wrongdoing worked as intended, as shown by the inspector general's report and the hearing."I am perhaps more shocked and saddened than most because I've sat on the subcommittee for more than 20 years and by and large have found GSA appointed officials and civil servants alike ... to be among the most dedicated federal employees," she said.Denham, however, described the matter as involving "the distrust of the American public and its government.""This is about the waste of taxpayer dollars, and if you can sense my anger and frustration, you should see it at home, where we have got double-digit unemployment, the highest foreclosure rate in the nation, people out of work -- twice the national average," Denham said, accusing the GSA of stonewalling congressional investigators in an effort to hide the issue from the public.At a similar hearing Monday before the House Oversight Committee, Neely claimed his Fifth Amendment rights in refusing to answer questions. He declined to appear at Tuesday's hearing on the same grounds, Denham said.The controversy involving a normally obscure federal agency has become politically toxic after reports and video clips of the lavish 2010 conference in Las Vegas were released. The revelation has prompted taxpayer indignation, embarrassed the administration and put a spotlight on wasteful spending by the GSA, which handles government real estate and other non-military procurement.Much of the committee focus on Tuesday involved the management structure of the GSA, with panel members expressing frustration over a lack of clarity and accountability.One exchange between Denham and Miller highlighted the ways that Neely, and presumably others, avoided strictures against supplying food at government work conferences such as the Las Vegas event by creating joke awards in order to hold ceremonies at which food was allowed."To get around the administration's rule of not having food, they got around it by having an awards ceremony at every conference or every day of a conference?" Denham asked.Miller responded: "According to witnesses that we've interviewed, it was a running joke in Region 9 that in order to get food, you had to give out awards -- and many of these awards were silly awards.""One of our witnesses characterized them, I guess, as fake awards, jackass awards and things of that nature," Miller said. "Now, getting back to the Western Region's conference -- they gave out awards for theatrical performances. We do not consider that a proper award. The award has to be for contributions to the work of the agency. "Miller's report listed the multiple excesses -- more than $6,000 for commemorative coins for conference attendees, $75,000 for a team-building exercise to construct 24 bicycles for underprivileged children, the hiring of a mind reader as entertainment -- as well as bypassing a staff event planner to pay outsiders to prepare the conference and repeated "scouting visits" to Las Vegas by officials and family members.Denham repeatedly hammered Johnson, the former administrator who resigned earlier this month, over how Neely could have been allowed to continue to travel for his job after Miller first alerted her of potential problems in May 2011, and even after Miller's final report arrived in February."I think it's absurd," the chairman said at one point of Johnson's assertion that she took immediate action including putting Neely on administrative leave in March and then firing two top aides and resigning herself on April 2. Neely remains on administrative leave, drawing his salary, but could face criminal charges.Johnson responded that she had to follow due process concerning personnel matters, but her answers provided little satisfaction to Denham, who repeated his questions several times in an apparent effort to trip her up.Other questions involved a culture of intimidation allegedly created by Neely against underlings who complained. Peck said that he heard Neely was intolerant of being challenged and that the two discussed the issue more than once, but he was unaware of the intimidation alleged, such as poor performance reviews and threats of relocation.On Monday, House Oversight Committee Chairman Rep. Darrell Issa asked why a former congressional aide to President Barack Obama remained in his top job at the GSA when he probably knew of the wrongdoing -- or should have.In later tough questioning of that official, GSA Chief of Staff Mike Robertson, Issa determined that a lawyer in the White House counsel's office knew of the ongoing investigation of the GSA in the middle of 2011, nine months before the earliest time acknowledged by the administration.However, Robertson later issued a statement to clarify his testimony to the committee, saying: "I only mentioned in passing the existence of an (inspector general) investigation as I bumped into a White House staffer that I regularly worked with on GSA issues. This was in late May or June of 2011."On Tuesday, Johnson said she received no orders from the White House on how to respond to the controversy, and Miller said he had no contact with the White House on the issue.Johnson also repeated her opening statement from Monday, in which she said she found a badly managed GSA when she took over in 2010 after more than two years of interim leadership.She added that the Western Region conference at the heart of the problem had become a "raucous, extravagant, arrogant, self-congratulatory event that ultimately belittled federal workers."Among videos of the conference that have surfaced is one of David Foley, a deputy commissioner of the Public Buildings Service, an arm of the GSA, appearing to mock congressional oversight. In it, he gave a talent show award to an employee whose video featured a rap about spending too much and joking about avoiding investigation.Additional videos included one that seemed to make fun of President Barack Obama, as well as a fake red carpet ceremony with Neely boasting that his goal was to make the conference "over the top."Details also emerged of the employee incentive program, which violated limits on awards or gifts.Monday's hearing included several harsh exchanges, including when Issa questioned Robertson, a former staffer for Obama in the Senate, about when he first told anyone in the White House of the investigation of GSA.After a long back-and-forth, Robertson eventually said it was within a few weeks after GSA officials were first notified by the inspector general of a problem in May that he told a person in the White House counsel's office, whom he identified as Kim Harris.White House salary disclosures for 2011 list a Kimberley D. Harris as a deputy assistant to the president and deputy counsel to the president.Previously, a senior administration official told CNN that the White House was notified by GSA about the final inspector general's report shortly before it was released last month, more than nine months after Robertson said he told Harris about the ongoing investigation.Issa acknowledged that over-the-top GSA spending existed during the preceding Bush administration, though he disputes figures released by Obama officials that show a 102% increase from 2006 to 2008. However, information provided by his staff on Monday showed the increase from 2006 to 2008 approached that figure."Wasteful spending is a problem that transcends multiple administrations," he said, adding that it is up to the current administration to halt it now.More from politicsHillary Clinton asks State to release emails: What you need to knowSelma 50 years later: Memories from Bloody Sunday nurseState Dept. IG hammered ambassador for using private email account while Clinton was doing same thingPowered by Livefyre
State Dept. IG hammered ambassador for using private email account while Clinton was doing same thing


text:
Warning shots have long been prohibited by most American police departments. Massad Ayoob spells out 10 good reasons why.
Author Archives: Massad Ayoob
6 Bad Excuses to Not Carry Spare Ammo
Too many shooters who practice concealed carry overlook spare ammo — a critical aspect of effective personal protection. Here Massad Ayoob refutes 6 of the most common objections to carrying more rounds.
The Dangerous Myth of Hierarchy of Lethality
A myth has arisen that Massad Ayoob calls "hierarchy of lethality." It is the false belief that the firearm represents the nuclear level of hand-held weaponry, and is somehow more lethal than other deadly weapons.
10 Concealed Carry Articles by Massad Ayoob You MUST Read
If you practice concealed carry, put these 10 essential articles by Massad Ayoob on your 'Must Read' list!
Maximizing Semi-Auto Handgun Performance
There are reasons why autoloaders are more popular than revolvers today. However, many fail to maximize semi-auto handgun performance by overlooking firepower and shootability.
Hybrid Holsters for Concealed Carry
When it comes to holster material, combining leather with polymer gives the armed citizen the best of both worlds. No wonder hybrid holsters for concealed carry are so popular.
Massad Ayoob: A Look at the SIG P320
For years now, traditional double action police service pistols such as the SIG P-series have been pushed out of the spotlight by polymer-frame, striker fired pistols, a revolution begun by Glock. Now, SIG has met the striker-fired polymer pistols on their own turf with the new SIG P320.
Is Hollowpoint the Best Defensive Ammo for Concealed Carry?
Sterile lab testing in ballistic gelatin is great, but the ultimate laboratory is the street. Here are the loads that seem to be doing best there, input written in blood from gunfights police departments have experienced with defensive ammunition.
Kids and Guns: Mas Ayoob on Proven Safety Methods
Massad Ayoob argues that when it comes to gun safety in the home, you can't childproof your guns, so you have to gunproof your children.