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BJ'S BLOG 06/19/13 "Jailbird Dad on 'Sesame Street'"
by BJ Shea
posted Jun 19 2013 8:50AM
Yesterday on the show, I read a story about "Sesame Street" that really bothered me.
The children's show has introduced an occasional character named Alex who is dealing with his father being in jail!
Alex is an orange muppet with blue hair who is embarrassed and upset that his dad being behind bars.
You can check out the video here:
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The reason this really got under my skin is because "Sesame Street" is always trying to be reflective of who is watching their show, but they chose to make fathers look bad.
What I want to know is why they didn't use a jailbird mother instead when there are so many women in prison.
As a man, I feel attacked by the media biased tainting of the image of men, but god forbid they ever show women in a negative light! I am so tired of PC society because they seem to be politically correct on everything except the fair portrayal of men.
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BJ'S BLOG 06/19/13 "Jailbird Dad on 'Sesame Street'"
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Incompetent Dads
I find it offensive how in commercials and movies men are always portrayed as incompetent when it comes to taking care of children (feeding, changing diapers etc.). Then there are the ones where the wife stands there and looks on while the husband attempts a simple home repair but can't seem to manage it until she steps in.
mr tha
it says right here in the video that 'alex' will not be introduced into the show that he is only being used in this specific tool kit, which is fathers being incarcerated. who's to say they wont be visiting a lady prison next?
Pick your poison.
If it had been a mother in jail there would be women complaining for the same reason. But when women blow the sexism whistle people actually listen. Sesame Street's just cutting their losses with this one.
You are absolutely right BJ. How did we ever let this happen in divorce court to where a woman can do no wrong unless blatant. All a lady has to do is twist things and he's a bad father.
On the other hand....
I empathize with your feelings on fathers in a bad light. I see single mother sites, blogs, etc all over but few to none for the single father. I have been a single father since my little girl tested positive for meth at age 2. She is now with me and hasno contact with mom. On the other hand, I think that it being "dad" was not a vindictive choice, but just is what it is. Just them trying to help children.
Could be worse?
The only thing that could irritate you MORE about this is if "Alex" was a little girl... and on THAT note in another 10 years they could introduce a NEW Character "Alexis" (the stripper Mom)
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The Day of Broken Promises - Who's that Shadow?Hi everyone, this is my first fanfic so please review! Hope you will like it! This will be an AAML but I promise I will give an original and enjoyable ending.Chapter OneAfter a long day of chores and facing the latest challengers, Misty Waterflower – the proud Gym Leader of Cerulean City – sat dejectedly on the edge of her vast pool. Her adorable baby, Azurill, nudged her dangling legs with its head desperate to cheer up his mother from what seemed to be an endless state of depression.Misty thought back of the events of that day: the typical arrogant rookie, who was adamant he would be the first trainer to beat her in seven years, sent packing in tears. At first, the battling in honour of her city's reputation was enjoyable, exciting even, which helped hide her desire to travel and explore again. However as months became years whilst receiving no visit from her secret school-girl crush, that delight of freedom gave way to frustration to
The Day of Broken Promises - Friends ForeverI'm really sorry that I haven't updated for so long! In short, I had a downturn in my love life so was really depressed for ages, I had an interview with my first choice university so had focus on that and finally I had another seizure -_- But here it is! This will be my last chapter for this story. I will write future fanfics but got my exams coming up and my parents will be buying me a new laptop so will start fanart again so you guys won't be hearing from me until possibly July!Warning! This has a lot of speech in it. I needed to tie up loose ends...Anyway, on with the story. I need to put in a disclaimer, don't I? ... Disclaimer: I don't own Pokémon but if Nintendo still exists once I'm mega-rich, I'm buying it and I'll make sure Misty returns unless she has already."Mr Ketchum, we were expecting you over an hour ago. In case if you have forgotten, we have a tight schedule. I would rather if you co-operated because I simp
The Day of Broken Promises - Broken PromisesSorry it's been so long! Had a seizure which took me several weeks to recover from and then had loads of work to catch up followed by replying to universities saying I will be going to their interviews for a place and then I finally got Pokemon X! Friend code is 0232-9285-5551 if you want to add me.Hopefully this chapter will satisfy! Please read and review!THWUMP!The muffled sound of a fist hitting bone at high velocity could be heard throughout the relatively silent room.Ash stood there cradling his bruised jaw and gawked at his positively furious looking attacker."Misty," Ash whined, "that's not the nice way to treat an old –""Nice? I'll give you nice, Mr Wannabe Pokémon Master! Where the hell were you the past seven years, huh?"Did you really mean it when you said we would be best of friends for life yet never bothering to visit me or even phone me? Not to mention blocking my number or something so I can never call you and see i
The Day of Broken Promises - Chapter TwoSecond chapter! Personally I don't really like this chapter but it's really just to prolong the story a bit. Misty wakes up in the same place but it doesn't seem right; what happened and where is she actually?Chapter Two: Welcome to my Humble HomeUpon opening her eyes, Misty immediately scrambled backwards in shock at what had appeared before her.Where there had been previously nothing, a colossal apparition hovered above the lake. Looking more carefully through the night mist, she realised that it was, very strangely, a house floating in the midnight air. But what a house indeed! By her estimations, it had to be at least twice the size of her famously large gym: a mansion, or palace as she discovered later on, fit for a god.Recovering from her shock, Misty became intrigued about what happened and why a very real looking building had seemly come out of nowhere defying the laws of gravity. She began to explore her
The Day of Broken Promises - An Unexpected VisitorHello! Pokéshipping Day today! I wanted to upload this earlier but was waiting for it to be beta read but she hasn't been online for ages! (WAAA PokestarTheZylar!) So here it is! This chapter is perfect for today as you'll see! Sorry I put seven years, I know it's actually been 11, but for the sake of this story, it's 7. Pokémon world time is slower than ours anyway!An Unexpected VisitorA few weeks into arriving at Kalos…"All right, Pangoro, buddy! Sucker punch!" Ash commanded with false enthusiasm and watched as his huge Fighting Panda bear gave out a fierce punch to a little red hamster before it could charge up its Thundershock attack.At that moment Ash felt something snap in his head. A red mist descended upon his vision. He had finally grasped what this day was and signified which had been nagging in the back of his mind all day long. Ash looked up at his opponent with an intimidating fiery rage burning in his normally wa
The Day of Broken Promises - A Good Day to CryHi! Chapter Four is out! I'm really pleased with this chapter. I think it's my best one. I'm slowly getting the hang of writing! I'll be editing the earlier chapters for grammar/spelling. Thanks for all the support and carry on reviewing!A Good Day to CryA few weeks ago…Sitting on a lone smooth stone, a lone boy in his late teens sat looking out to the sparkling sea. In his hand he held a little object hidden from prying eyes. Such eyes would be from the people following him around and his so called 'travelling companions'.The bastards, he thought bitterly. He was tired of his life. He didn't want to travel the world anymore. There wasn't a single real human friend he had left with him. He only had two: a certain beautiful girl and a wise older man he saw as a brother. The former taken cruelly away and the latter had decided he had enough.He sighed wistfully and studied the figurine in his hand again. He missed them. Especial

subset: commoncrawl


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CW12 Directory ResourceListing Details
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Click above to watch the video of our students demonstrating kindness!
Saturday March 7th, 2015-Click above for details and registration form
Please take a moment to read the updated parking lot rules for the 2014-2015 School Year!
Students recently grabbed their video cameras, put pen to paper and tested their creativity for programs that challenged them to speak out against tobacco, drugs and alcohol in their school communities.
Students at Riverview STEM Academy this year have had the opportunity to dig into new hands-on robotics activities and physics lessons thanks to a $1,000 contribution from the GenCorp Foundation. The funds were used to bring VEX robotics kits to fourth and fifth grade students at the Rancho Cordova magnet school
Dozens of Folsom High juniors learned from the city's business and community leaders the skills and traits necessary for effective leadership during a daylong workshop co-sponsored by the Rotary Club of Folsom.
We're excited to announce a big change to our annual student registration process in the hopes of saving our families time.
Families sat side-by-side in the classroom with their students and dug into Common Core math lessons together during a special evening at Peter J. Shields Elementary.
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM Internet Safety and Social Media - Special Presentation
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Board Meeting
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM Flyer Family Fun Run 5K
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Board Meeting
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM Math Bowl


text: STYLE Fashion Trends Men's Jeans - Under $50 Cool Tattoos Cool Tattoos Motorcycle Gear Motorcycle Gear Blazers Under $100 Blazers Under $100 Best- And Worst-Dressed: February 2013 Best- And Worst-Dressed: February 2013 Coming Next OR 0 50 Back to Top ▲ Men's Jeans - Under $50 Men's Jeans - Under $50 Old Navy Slim-Fit Jeans AskMen Editors Share on Facebook Share on Twitter 0 Shares Click here to follow AskMen Fashion on Twitter.We're going to let you in on a secret that's not so secret, because we've said it here before as often as we've bookmarked photos of Kate Upton: You don't need to spend a lot to look good. Much of what constitutes good style is clothes that fit. You could spend $2,500 on a designer suit, but if the fit isn't right, you're not impressing anyone, even with the brag-worthy label stitched inside. So we've compiled a list of men's jeans that all come in under $50. Pictured here: Old Navy Slim-Fit JeansPrice: $30Buy it here. Next Page Jeans Denim Pants Comments Show Comments More Like This Promoted Around the Web Special Features


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Nanoscale Research Letters
Nanoscale Research Letters (NRL) is a peer-reviewed open access journal published under the brand SpringerOpen. It is providing an interdisciplinary forum for communication of scientific and technological advances in the creation and use of objects at the nanometer scale. The journal spans disciplines, emphasizing research that seeks to uncover the underlying science and behavior of nanostructures and further the goal of unifying nanoscale research in physics, materials science, biology, chemistry, engineering, and their expanding interfaces. Original research papers which appear rapidly following submission are published as Nano Express. Nano Ideas is a new format that focuses on well-founded and conceptually substantiated ideas which need neither elaborate theoretical verification nor experimental realization. NRL also publishes invited personal perspectives as Nano Commentaries, addressing general concerns of the nano community and highlighting new areas of science.
NRL is the first nanotechnology journal from a major publisher to be published wih Open Access. Open Access provides worldwide access to your research free of charge to anyone with an internet connection, ensuring maximum visibility.
- 10 Volumes
- 55 Issues
- 3,254 Articles
- 3,252 Open Access
- 2006 - 2015 Available between
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Nano Express
Composites of silica with immobilized cholinesterase incorporated into polymeric shell
Victoriya Payentko, Alexander Matkovsky, Yulia Matrunchik (February 2015)
Nano Express
Study of parasitic resistance effects in nanowire and nanoribbon biosensors
Ioannis Zeimpekis, Kai Sun, Chunxiao Hu, Owain Thomas… (February 2015)
Nano Express
Local structure and paramagnetic properties of the nanostructured carbonaceous material shungite
Serhii Volodymyrovich Krasnovyd, Andriy Andriyovich Konchits… (February 2015)
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- Nanoscale Research Letters
- Open Access
- Available under Open Access This content is freely available online to anyone, anywhere at any time.
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- Volume 1 / 2006 - Volume 10 / 2015
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- 1931-7573
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Morning Edition
NPR's Morning Edition prepares you for the day ahead with two hours of up-to-the-minute news, background analysis, commentary, and coverage of arts and sports |
Detroit Today
Detroit Today brings you fresh and perceptive views and brings you into the conversation each day. |
John W Stroh III joins Craig to talk Detroit beer and brewing history. Stroh is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The Stroh Companies, Inc. He will speak at Detroit Drunken Historical Society and WSU Press's event featuring brewing history. on Jan. 30.
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Hi! I've been using Acnelyse, a brand of retin A 0.1% (available for about 3$ in pharmacies in Turkey) on and off for a while. I always flaked and peeled and didn't have the motivation to get my skincare regime right.
Now, for the past 3 weeks, since I've bought two new amazing moisturizers, it's working for me! I started off using it 3x a week the first 2 weeks, this week I've been using it nightly. Of course my skin has tightened and flaked insanely, but I credit my moisturizers with the improved state of my skin at the moment.
This is what I do: at night I wash my face with Murad Essential-C cleanser and wait for about half an hour. Then I apply a small amount of Retin A over my entire face (You can use it on your body, on ingrown hairs and bumps on your arms (keratosis pillaris I think) as well).
*If my skin is feeling dry, I apply La-Roche Posay's Rosaliac XL about 1 hour after the retinol. It softens and calms my skin like no other.
** If my skin is feeling really dry, I area treat with Bioderma Sensibio Forte cream (it's very powerful so I don't use a lot, otherwise I get pimples).
In the mornings I use Rosaliac XL again because it's an excellent make-up base, has SPF 15 and smells amazing :)
I noticed that my blackheads actually get cleaned out whenever I use a facial treatment/scrub the day after I use retin-A. I tend to use Clinique's 15-minute turnaround 2X a week and i can literaly see the junk coming out of my congested skin!
My skin is very very sensitive so I consider this a miracle. I'm going to continue with this regime for as long as it works; for it's anti-acne, anti-blackhead, pore-refining and anti-aging (preventative) effects. Just remember that when you are using such a product, you have to start off slow and build tolerance and have an amazing moisturizer (or two!) at hand.
6 out of 8 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
I have tried using Retin-A twice with minimal results. The irritation it causes is sometimes unbearable and after realizing that it wasn't making much of a difference, I just thought using Retin-A was not worth it. I went back to ProActiv and the results were much better than what I achieved with Retin-A. Also, Retin-A caused pits to form on both of my cheeks. They were not there before I started using it and then all of a sudden, I got about 4 or 5 of them. At first I thought I was crazy for assuming that Retin-A caused it. But I did a search on it and found some blogs where people were complaining about the pits caused by Retin-A. I will not attempt using this again...and now I do not know how to get rid of the pits on my face :(
2 out of 3 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
My derm just put me on Retin A 0.5% to help with hormonal breakouts along my jawline and chin. I am apprehensive about using this (I tried it once in my teens and had DISASTROUS results). But, now that I am a little older I am willing to give it a shot, especially for the added anti-aging benefits... I look great for my age (most guess that I am in my 20's and I'd love to keep that going as long as possible!)
Here is my current routine:
AM - Clairsonic every other day w/ Burt's Bees Sal. Acid acne wash. MediCalia mattifying lotion.
PM - MediCalia exfoliating wash (using hands, not brush), jojoba oil, Retin A every other night (applied ~one hour after washing; just before bed)
Weekly - aspirin mask
Week 3: No major flakies or redness, all but 1 pimple are GONE and the red marks from where I picked at the other pimples are getting much lighter. There is a little peeling on the tip of my nose, but that's it! I feel 'tightness' like it WANTS to peel, but nothing yet. So far, so good!
Week 4: hello peeling! I upped my usage to every night and got hit with major peelies. i backed off to every other night, and on nights i don't use it, i'm slathering my face in jojoba. in the morning, i exfoliate with a warm washcloth (clairsonic wasn't working to get all of the peeling skin off...)
I will update this over the next couple of months with my results.
I asked my PCP to write me a script for this to combat wrinkles about a year and a half ago and I'm so glad I did! I use 0.1% cream. The first few months were a little rough with the dry skin. The skin around my mouth and chin flaked the worst. You have to tough it out because it will get better! So many people comment about how clear and smooth my skin looks now. It was a gradual process, as far as I'm concerned, because I really didn't notice until I was hearing the comments. I'm often told I look more than 5 years younger than I am, but I think that has alot to do with my sunscreen obsession. And you do need to wear sunscreen and be very careful out in the sun. My face is definitely sensitive to too much sun or wind - but it's worth it!
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
THE BEST investment you can make for your skin. I've been using .1% retinol for years & I strongly recommend starting out by using it every other night because it is STRONG! Now you may not be as crazy as I am to start off with the highest strength but I figure if I'm gonna do something, I'm gonna do it right! Ok, I've used the generic version (Tretinoin) & I will never try to save money by using the generic again! Here's why: It is normal to experience skin problems, such as dryness, redness, itching, breaking out and blistering for the first 2 weeks of use but after the initial 2 weeks of use of the generic Retin-A .1% those side-effects did not go away! In fact, I used the whole tube every night which lasted me almost a year & it was as if I just started using it =( I've been using the Retin-A Micro .1% (brand name is OrthoNeutrogena) every night for the last 6 months & my skin is in the best shape ever!!! =) For the first 2 weeks that you have to suffer for your skin to adjust, my doctor recommended: Cortizone-10 Intensive Healing Formula Cream 1% Hydrocortisone which can be found @ your local drug store (Ultra creamy formula helps heal problem skin.
* Clinically proven to moisturize 24 hours
* #1 doctors recommended itch medicine
* Calms, nourishes, hydrates
* Safe for sensitive skin
* With antioxidants & chamomile.)
I initially used Retin-A in my teens for acne purposes which I am no longer suffering from but now my dermatologist kept me on it for anti-wrinkle purposes. It is the best anti-aging treatment you will ever find but you have to be careful to use only a pea sized amount or your face will get SO DRY!!! Also do not go in the sun for prolonged periods of time even with high SPF - you will get a sun burn even if you don't normally burn easily! The key ingredient is Vitamin A which gets de-activated by sunlight so only use it at night before you go to sleep or else you will waste your product. Also very important, you have to wait 30 minutes after you wash your face to apply retinol because your face has to be completely dry. Just a lil secret of mine: Vitamin A works way better when combined with vitamin E & C. But there are different types of vitamin E so you have to find the DL Alpha Tocopherol version. It's more effective than Tocopherol acetate (for reference: info found in Dr. Oz's book "YOU: Staying Young" or "YOU: Staying Beautiful" - I own both books so I'll update once I look up which book it is. =) I prefer Nature's Bounty Vitamin E Oil (3,0000 IU Topical & Oral) & I use Vitamin C serum from Mario Badescu. The only moisturizer that's helped me during the day has been Jurlique Moisturizing Day Cream! And I do not use other exfoliating products daily such as the Clarisonic or any scrubs; however, when I plan to do a TCA or Glycolic acid or Lactic acid peel, I dis-continue use of the Retin-A for 7-10 days before performing the peel, then again wait 7-10 days after peel to resume use of the Retin-A! =)
11 out of 13 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
I have been using the 0.05 Tretinoin for approximately 4 weeks. I initially had purging which resulted in peeling and minor breakouts. After a week or so that was resolved. I now get some occasional peeling, but overall its too early to tell final results. However, even with the initial use my face is beginning to look better than before. Tretinoin is a product where you have to stick with it. Most people have had the best success after at least 24 months of use. After the initial outbreak most people quit using it. You really do have to stick with it!
3 out of 5 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
More reviews by tangledupinpink
This was the first prescription treatment I tried for my acne. For whatever reason, my insurance decided to be generous and cover the cost of a generic version of this medicine.
Prior to using it, the doctor and pharmacist both warned me that I would probably experience some burning, itching and redness. So I was prepared for the worst.
However this never did come to pass (I later paid for my luck here during my tazorac treatment!!).
During my Retin-A treatment I had only a slight red tint to my cheeks in the morning that did pass with time. There was no peeling to speak of and no itchiness at all.
Unlike many users, I was able to use a treated acne wash in addition to the Retin-A.
I used it for 14 weeks. Initially I saw no improvement. Then around week 4 I began to see clearing skin and fewer white heads and cystic acne. My black head count seemed to remain the same.
It never did give me amazing results. As I did continue to break out on a reduced, but still regularly basis. Somewhere around week 12 I began a gross explosion of acne. Worse than before the Retin-A. I gave it 2 weeks to clear up before calling the doctor's office and requesting something different.
I bought generic %.05 Retin-A cream via generic 4 all dot com, after trying several OTC retinol products and deciding I wanted the results that only come from Retin-A.
I use it every other night, waiting 30 minutes after I wash my face to apply. Sometimes I moisturize right after washing and I guess that buffers the effects of the Retin-A somewhat. I have dry/very dry skin and generally need to exfoliate a lot, but with Retin-A I use a washcloth very very gently when I wash my face and that's all the exfoliation I need.
Overall, this is an HG. The three tubes I got for $45 US including shipping will probably last a year (and won't expire before then) and I can already see, after using it for only two weeks, the improvement in my skin's clarity and texture. I'll use Retin-A forever.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
I have used this off and on for over 30 years and it has become a staple. I have used every % and delivery system (gel, micro, cream) offered and can't say I really prefer one over another. Although my facial skin shows little to no immediate reaction after each use, I am going to say it accumulatively works because I think my skin is in great condition for my age! Now for the bonus -- I buy the generic versions from ADC - it's soooo cheap and use it on my neck, chest and arms. At first it made my skin rough feeling and then voila it turned as slick and soft as satin. No kp! It is one of the only skin care products out there proven to work on wrinkles.
8 out of 9 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
I just recently got a sample of this product from my derm to use. I have been on proactive for years and years - definitely more than ten years. Recently I have started getting spots on my jawline and my chin, and they're not the monthly hormonal ones. I don't know what cleansers to use with the Retin-a-Micro. I'm not a big fan of cetaphil, and am looking for a gentle but effective cleanser. Any recommendations?


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What does VTT mean in French?
This page is about the meanings of the acronym/abbreviation/shorthand VTT in the International field in general and in the French terminology in particular.
Vélo Tout Terrain
Find a translation for VTT in other languages:
Select another language:
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Use the citation below to add this abbreviation to your bibliography:
"VTT." Abbreviations.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2015. Web. 6 Mar. 2015. <http://www.abbreviations.com/term/173939>.
VTT also stands for:
- Termination Voltage
- Vacuum Tower Telescope
- Video Target Tracking
- Video TeleTraining
- Virtual Tele Training
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In the what-have-you-done-for-me-lately world of the National Football League there's
Since stepping into the starting lineup early in his rookie season, the versatile and productive linebacker has started at all three spots in the Seahawks' defense and finished fifth, second and fourth in tackles. Wright's total of 237 tackles makes him one of only four Seattle defenders with 200-plus stops in the past three seasons – along with All-Pro strong safety
To appreciate Wright's effect on the Seahawks' already good, but still improving, defense, it helps to revisit just how immediate his impact has been since he was selected in the fourth round of the 2011 NFL Draft.
When a knee injury rendered then-middle linebacker David Hawthorne inactive for the 2011 season opener, the 6-foot-4, 246-pound Wright started and collected five tackles. That performance showed the coaches that Wright needed to play on a regular basis, which led to 2009 first-round draft choice Aaron Curry being traded to the Oakland Raiders. Stepping in on the strong side for Curry, Wright had three games with at least seven tackles, two sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.
"You've heard me say many times that he is unique," coach Pete Carroll has said of Wright, well, many times. "He's so long. His arm length is so special and he ran real fast also and he was really good behind the ball. He surprised us early on and he was so stout about the game. He just could learn quickly and handle a lot of information and utilize all of the stuff and he surprised us again with his coverage ability. He's a very, very good cover guy and he has great instincts about it.
"There have been a lot of surprises with K.J. and he's played great football for us."
And he has done it on a consistent, and productive, basis. So special birthday wishes go out to a player who has been truly special for the Seahawks.
Breakfast in bed to start off my morning :)
— KJ (@KJ_WRIGHT34) July 23, 2014


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Greeks in Armenia
Total population | |
900[1] | |
Regions with significant populations | |
Languages | |
Greek (mainly Pontic Greek), Russian, Armenian | |
Religion | |
Orthodox Christianity |
The Greeks of Armenia are mainly descendants of the Pontic Greeks, who originally lived in the Pontic Mountains, along the shores of the Black Sea, in the uplands of the Pontic Alps, and other parts of northeastern Anatolia. Seafaring Ionian Greeks settled around the southern shores of the Black Sea starting around 800 BC later expanding to coastal regions of modern Romania, Russia, Bulgaria and Ukraine. The Pontic Greeks lived for thousands of years almost isolated from the Greek peninsula, retaining elements of the Ancient Greek language and making Pontic Greek unintelligible to most other modern Hellenic languages. They were joined in the region by later waves of Greeks in the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine period, ranging from traders, scholars, churchmen, mercenaries, or refugees from elsewhere in Anatolia or the southern Balkans.
Several villages with a large proportion of ethnic Greek Armenians are found in areas along Armenia's northern border with Georgia, in the northern part of the Lori marz (province). The largest communities can be found in Alaverdi and Yerevan,[2] followed by Vanadzor, Gyumri, Stepanavan, Hankavan and Noyemberyan. Ethnic Greeks in Armenia numbered around 1,800 to over 4,000.[3] Their numbers have been greatly reduced since the end of the Soviet Union due to emigration for economic reasons to other former Soviet republics and to Greece. Greeks and Armenians also live together in mixed communities north of the Armenian border in Georgia - but there too numbers have been greatly reduced due to emigration. Yaghdan in Lori province has been described as the last remaining Greek village in Armenia.[4]
" | Armenia's Greeks, as in the whole of Transcaucasia, speak the Pontic dialect, an extension of the Ionic dialect of the ancient Greek language. A certain layer is occupied by the migrants from Trabzon and Kars region in the 19th – 20th century. (endoethnonym: ROMEYUS). All Armenia's Greeks are fluent in both Armenian and Russian. The Greek population in Armenia today is about 6,000.[5] | " |
See also[edit]
- ^ 2011 Armenian Census
- ^ Hellenic Republic Hellenic Republic, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- ^ Papoulias concludes state visit to Armenia
- ^ "Visiting Yaghdan: The last Greek village in Armenia". Retrieved 19 May 2012.
- ^ The Ethnic Minorities of Armenia, Garnik Asatryan, Victoria Arakelova.


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- 12-20-2012, 07:49 PM Thread Author #1
Why does mali 400mp get extremely poor triangle test scores?
You look at the galaxy s3 and galaxy s2 or any device running with the mali 400mp you will find benchmarks like glbenchmark always show these devices with shocking triangular test scores. The same with smartbench the mali comes out on bottom.
It has a high gpu clock speed, not forgetting the 4 cores and still manages lower than one of the poor power vr chips in the ipad 2. Is it down to architecture? Someone please tell me!
Also I know that benchmarks dont mean anything but come on? This is a matter that is quite bad!
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Android Central Forums -
Re: Why does mali 400mp get extremely poor triangle test scores?
Didn't we already discuss this in more than one thread? Anybody that's played games on the S3 or Note 2 haven't complained.
Kevin F.I.M.T.K. O'Quinn Esq. - 12-21-2012, 05:53 AM Thread Author #3
- 12-21-2012, 12:20 PM #4Kevin F.I.M.T.K. O'Quinn Esq.
- 12-21-2012, 01:07 PM Thread Author #6
- 12-21-2012, 01:19 PM #7Kevin F.I.M.T.K. O'Quinn Esq.
- 12-21-2012, 04:12 PM Thread Author #8
- 12-23-2012, 01:59 AM #10Kevin F.I.M.T.K. O'Quinn Esq.
- 12-23-2012, 03:48 AM Thread Author #11
- 12-23-2012, 05:38 PM #12Kevin F.I.M.T.K. O'Quinn Esq.
- 12-24-2012, 06:04 AM Thread Author #13
Re: Why does mali 400mp get extremely poor triangle test scores?
True, but in a year when it comes to gaming, the s3 will be poor, I think the s2 will be better because the gpu hasnt got to push as many pixels as what the s3 has to
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Android Central Forums - 12-24-2012, 09:32 PM #14Kevin F.I.M.T.K. O'Quinn Esq.
- 12-25-2012, 04:17 AM Thread Author #15
- 12-25-2012, 02:09 PM #16Kevin F.I.M.T.K. O'Quinn Esq.
- 12-25-2012, 05:01 PM Thread Author #17
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Tiptoeing In Your Tweed
Written by Jon Moy
Tuesday, September 23rd, 2014 at 12:34pm
Diemme makes these tweed slip-ons for you to tiptoe in. I know you could probably just buy a pair of Vans and call it a day, but would they be tweed and would they be Italian? Sometimes you just gotta


text:
Reader comments are listed below. Comments are currently closed and new comments are no longer being accepted.
With the huge economic growth in China, the people who are benefiting the most from it start to care more about the quality of food as well. Therefore, the food quality/safety program becomes even more serious. Officials are trying to crack down and solve these problems, but were limited before. In present time they need to become even more strict, and tougher on food safety/quality. The government need to not allow restaurants/food companies back into the game unless severe measures are taken on their part to fix it. This is because it is part of humans health, which is vital to life.
It is amazing to me that a country that has industrialized so quickly would not expect and take measures against food supply problems. China and India both have been purchasing land in Africa for food production for their own countries because their factories and skyscrapers take up so much space. Most of eastern China is comprised of overcrowded cities with millions of hungry Chinese people. How did the government not know that preventative measures would have to be taken against food shortages and corruption within the food industry? It just does not make sense. Yeah, WalMart was wrong to make a packaging mistake, but as the article states, China has much worse problems than that to contend with. I hope to see China taking some steps forward in producing healthier and cleaner food for its citizens to eat in the future.
China's economy has gradually increased in the last decade or two. It's definitely one of the world's super powers now other than the United States. I can remember reading how awful China's economy used to be and how weak their country was; nope not anymore! They are wealthy now even the middle class is becoming rich and this is why they care a lot about their food and what goes into the process of making the food. China needs to tighten up a bit for safety reasons or many companies and people are going to suffer the job losses and health problems.
China is already the fastest growing economy in the world, and as people gain income and knowledge, they should question the food practices in their country. With their food industry already under scrutiny it is important that regulations are kept up for the safety of the people. If the government upholds strict regulations, then they should not worry about humiliation.
I remember that Taiwan had its own set of food safety scare in the 1980's and 1990's (is this a function of incomplete/immature public policy?). This was a long time ago but I remember reading that it was largely solved by enacting some sort of supply chain audit. Food manufacturers embraced the enforcement because people had started to avoid eating certain foods which completely cut into manufacturers' profits -- obviously.
The problem with Mainland China at the moment is that there are just so many mom and pop operations sprouting up that are also fly-by-night. Sometimes, it's just a couple of guys doing it. They do not care about their own long term economic viability. They often work like cons. It can be near impossible to catch many of them.
Established food manufacturers who are in it for the long haul should take the view that food safety is a core concern -- this is obvious but sometimes forgotten. They cannot muddle along. They should establish their own supply chain audits themselves and make it a marketing tool. Bigger market share is often better than bigger margins.
It's a shame that with such a huge country and growing still growing economy the food resources are not reliable. Super markets and restaurants not having a care in the world about the health of the food their consumers are eating the issue will never be resolved. People need to eat, period. If the only food being offered is not safe, the people of china will not have any other option. I hope that China can get out of this rut and truly crack down on food safety issues.
Food safety issues in China have been well known for many years. The fact that Walmart is being so hard it is surprising considering the Chinese government hid the milk scandal, when it occurred. Maybe they are trying to show how they have regained more power and control over their country and its food safety by strictly enforcing these laws on Walmart. If they continue this plan with all stores and restaurants, they could severely diminish or even eliminate their food safety problems in the next decade or two.
What else is wrong with China? Lets see other than the booming technology sector its living conditions are unreal. Starting a decade ago, China has had major problems with air pollution due to a large population. However, the government doesn't care at all about its constituents health. Its absolutely ridiculous. China needs to get on this new food safety problem as its population will decline affecting the nation more than it could realize.
Food safety has been a problem in China for quite some time now. They have made attempts to crackdown on the issue but not much progress has been made. In my opinion, a stricter policy on the issue should make things better. If a company is not following regulations when it comes to food, they should be taken out of the food industry altogether so the potential for it to happen again is eliminated. The Chinese citizens should not have to worry about what they are eating when some people have to fight each day just for one meal. China has been known to hide its food safety issues from the rest of the world but after word of the milk contamination got out in 2008, China has be spotlighted. The whole world is watching to see if China can take control of its food safety but as of now, they aren't doing a very good job.
The food safety issues in China are scary to me, because who's to say these same types of issues are not going on here in America. How would people know that they are false advertising or selling out of date food? Wal-Mart, being the well known store that it is, should have had better employees/safety administration regulating these types of issues. Regardless of whether or not they now have new workers, I'm sure that Wal-Mart in particular is going to experience a severe profit decrease
The food safety problem in China is very unnerving. I would be very concerned with my government if food like this was being allowed in our stores and restaurants. What kind of people can sell food like this and be okay with it. The Chinese government better severely crack down on this problem right now.
Hiding a severe widespread contamination of milk is wrong on so many levels. Thousands of babies lost their lives over the suppression of the news. How scary is that? That food businesses would sacrifice the death of thousands of innocent babies for the sake of their business. No amount of money or profit is worth those deaths. Any one involved in the scandal that took place over three years ago should be locked up for good. I don't care what their excuse is. Food is needed by all to survive, so it is a precious business that needs to be monitored frequently and intensely. I feel like it's hard to trust food companies nowadays due to all the findings and story headers about certain food contaminations that are affecting people worldwide. Supervision from trusting people that don't work for the particular food groups could make a huge difference. With China's population and economy rising, people tend to forget to focus on the food aspect, leaving the country with more and more spurts of epidemics. Food should be something you don't even have to think twice about being one-hundred percent sure it is harmless to everyone who consumes it.
China's ego is growing because their economy is growing at an exponential rate and the country as a whole is getting richer. Now that the threat of starvation has quelled a bit, China is focusing on the quality of the food. It's very hypocritical that China would punish Wal-Mart and not themselves, themselves being a more prevalent supplier of a Chinese citizen's everyday diet. Are they attacking Wal-Mart on purpose to drive their foreign influence out of China? That could be a little far-fetched, but I wouldn't put it past a nation that has usually had isolationist tendencies throughout history, especially when they're growing exponentially and coming into their own.
This is outrageous that a country can allow this to occur. A very popular super store in America should have the same standards no matter where it is located. Additionally, China needs to provide a more safe and secure feelings for their citizens in regards to the food they will eat. People rely on supermarkets and grocery stores providing clean and safe food. The Chinese government needs to step up the mark and watch out for their citizens and the cleanliness of the food they eat.
'nkab Nov 1st 2011 5:54 GMT
@BardamuOct 31st 2011 1:13 GMT
"nkab …… I'd wager most people in America don't even know where China is, and care less…."???
It would be a far safer wager for you to say such an awfully mordant thing above which insults the intelligence of American people, when and after the US wipes its slate clean of foreign debts of trillions of dollars.
So, haha Bardamu, don't you bet your life on it so soon.
BTW, "Reading your posts is like drinking a glass of toxic milk. Your world view is far more poisonous than any industrial chemical" you said?
Relax, it's not the end for you, yet.
@Bismarck888 Oct 29th 2011 7:13 GMT
"@nkab……..As a big poor developing country next to smaller more developed ones (Hong Kong and Taiwan)"?
Now you have "three countries" all of a sudden, nice work of you. But are you sure you have your head screwed on right?
Further, being obviously an ardent fan of Wikipedia yourself, you wana explain to me why per Wikipedia: "In 1999, an estimated 5,000 deaths, 325,000 hospitalizations and 76 million illnesses were caused by foodborne illnesses within the US", the supposedly most health conscious nation in the world?
You may not be American, but how come you don't have the ball to criticize such food safety crisis here, and yet got some nerve bashing about Chinese food?
@So Formosa Oct 31st 2011 7:28 GMT
If you think China is not so hot, you should come to help change it, after Formosa is returned to the fold of motherland China of course. In the mean time, you can keep sucking the milk and honey off China like so many of you do. Mama Mainland will always tuck you in.
But being Chinese, I mean you, yes you as someone from Formosa, Taiwan or Chinese Taipei, or whatever you call yourself, it's not nice to fool mother nature and motherland China all the time.'
points above are well presented. it takes some gutsy ones to tell it like it is.
I feel like anyone, no matter where or what country there from should have to rely on safe food. Imagine going out to eat and just not being able to trust the restaurants? Or going to the supermarkets? China, being the most population country in the world is having problems trying to supply that much food to begin with, so I think making sure that the food is in good shape is not their worries. Richer people can afford better food, and there are plenty of people in china that aren't rich so they would just rather eat unhealthy. Not to mention, the government is not worrying about food, they are worrying about making money.
The more money people have, the more their standards increase. China has a booming economy and needs to increase their food standards. China is different than the rest of the world, and no one has really ever checked in on their standards. They have been able to just do what they want with their country. China is in control of their own country and haven't needed other interferences. However, just because of this doesn't mean they shouldn't have high standards for their country. The can afford to increase standards, and therefore they should.
These kinds of things are happened everywhere, every moment in my country, as a Chinese, i don't feel strange about this. i don't like to speak ill of my motherland, i love my country, but the main problems lie on the goverment side.
""@nkab……..As a big poor developing country next to smaller more developed ones (Hong Kong and Taiwan)"?
Now you have "three countries" all of a sudden, nice work of you. But are you sure you have your head screwed on right?
Further, being obviously an ardent fan of Wikipedia yourself, you wana explain to me why per Wikipedia: "In 1999, an estimated 5,000 deaths, 325,000 hospitalizations and 76 million illnesses were caused by foodborne illnesses within the US", the supposedly most health conscious nation in the world?
You may not be American, but how come you don't have the ball to criticize such food safety crisis here, and yet got some nerve bashing about Chinese food?"
Have I used wikipedia much lately. What do Chinese statistics look like. Unless you can offer a valid comparison its not much of a comparison.
I am not criticizing China's food safety practices so much, but your gut reaction in criticizing the Western press. Why can't the Western press comment on this? You don't bash the Chinese press for saying the same thing. Most Westerners are more concerned about 1) Tibet 2) China's Trade Practices 3) Chinese Military Expansion etc. They take their que from the Chinese press.
Why should the Economist try to balance it by criticizing food safety in the West, when its not their style of journalism. More importantly, the Chinese state owned media does not balance their coverage with reports of food scandals in the West. The reason why they don't do it is, because what difference does that make to the average reader in China. You might feel better, but most people in China won't feel any better. The Economist only released the news 6 weeks after the Chinese press released the story, and long after the other Western press. If the Economist only talked about stuff that matters to Westerners like Tibet you would still complain. You always want everything your way.
The reports about Chinese mothers buying milk powder directly from Australia and New Zealand is from the Chinese / Hong Komg media.
I frankly don't read about food scandals in China from the Western press first, but hear about it from people in Hong Kong. They complain about it, because of the mainland Chinese mothers swooping into Hong Kong and buying all the milk powder.
Lastly, I frankly find your post a fabrication and intellectually dishonest with its attempt to frame the Western press. I suspect its for those gullible non-Chinese who share your antipathy toward the Western press (like Syrians, Pakistani, Iranians etc), most mainland Chinese who read the Chinese official media know the gutter oil is a serious problem in China, and its not a place to score cheap political points.
people in some parts of asia, they already have an idea that 'foods made in china' is poison. I'm an asian and I also hesitate when I pick some stuffs which is labelled 'product of China'. China should change people' mind. as they have strong economy and they believe china is the core of the world, they must prove they have a mature awareness. what I mean is they have to show they effort to make safe foods and have a strong responsibility. I think China is just proving that Growing the economy of country isn't the only way to become a world leader.
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In this segment of Chuck Trautman Interviews The Experts, Chuck's guest is DJ Pritchard, one of the foremost experts on the science of neuro linguistic programming or NLP.
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text: Best falafel in Dubai -- and the woman who found itDavid Whitley, for CNNUpdated 11:21 PM ET, Tue February 10, 2015The woman who found the best falafel in Dubai 10 photosIn search of delicious Dubai – Arva Ahmed's culinary tours scour the less glamorous parts of Dubai in search of the most delicious and authentic dishes. Here, on her Arabian tour, cheese and spinach fatayer are being crisped up in a brick oven at a Lebanese bakery. (Ahmed keeps most restaurant names secret until the tours.) Hide Caption 1 of 10The woman who found the best falafel in Dubai 10 photosLebanese 'pizza' – Lebanese manousheh -- a pizza-like dish -- is stretched out thin so toppings such as Armenian sausage (sujuk) and cheese shine.Hide Caption 2 of 10The woman who found the best falafel in Dubai 10 photosPebble bread – Crunchy Iranian sangak bread is fired on pebbles. It's eaten with feta cheese, lettuce and walnuts.Hide Caption 3 of 10The woman who found the best falafel in Dubai 10 photosBird's nest baklava – "Bird's nest" baklava at an Old Dubai baklava shop that brims with syrupy sweets and cheese or cream-filled pastries.Hide Caption 4 of 10The woman who found the best falafel in Dubai 10 photosSmoky tikka – From the Indian tour (Ahmed's own background): Succulent, smoky cubes of Punjabi chicken tikka.Hide Caption 5 of 10The woman who found the best falafel in Dubai 10 photosDaily bread – Punjabi stuffed kulchas (breads) are cooked in a traditional tandoor oven.Hide Caption 6 of 10The woman who found the best falafel in Dubai 10 photosIndian street snacks – A favorite Indian street snack found in Dubai is pani puri. Hollow balls of fried dough are filled to the brim with potatoes, sprouts, spicy tamarind water and a sweet chutney.Hide Caption 7 of 10The woman who found the best falafel in Dubai 10 photosEgyptian comfort food – On the North African tour menu is koshari, the quintessential Egyptian comfort food -- a carb-heavy bowl of rice, pasta and macaroni, tossed with lentils, chickpeas, fried onions and a rich tomato sauce.Hide Caption 8 of 10The woman who found the best falafel in Dubai 10 photosFava bean falafel – Egyptian ta'ameya -- fava bean falafels -- are dunked into ground sesame paste (tahini).Hide Caption 9 of 10The woman who found the best falafel in Dubai 10 photosMoroccan treats – Meatball tagine from an Old Dubai neighborhood rich with Moroccan treats. Hide Caption 10 of 10Story highlightsArva Ahmed's food tours seek out the most authentic dishes in DubaiLocations are sometimes unglamorous -- in a city renowned for glitz -- but recipes are delicious Lebanese pizza, chili felafel and fesenjoon chicken stew are among tour highlightsAhmed is helping to pioneer a different kind of Dubai tourism (CNN)Qwaider Al Nabulsi is an unremarkable place, at first glance. The clue is in the glamorous Indian woman standing out front waxing lyrical to a group of hungry looking tourists.The setting is a Palestinian-Jordanian restaurant in Dubai (Qwaider Al Nabulsi, Al Muraqabat Street; +971 4227 5559), the tourists are refugees from the city's culinary mainstream, and the woman is Arva Ahmed -- underground food guide extraordinaire.Ahmed is talking about the history and variety of Middle Eastern cooking. She rat-a-tat-tats to the assembled crowd about the spartan dishes of the Yemeni Bedouin and moves on to the love of vegetables in the fertile crescent through Turkey, Lebanon and Syria. Then she pauses as waiters appear from the restaurant to satisfy the food cravings Ahmed has stirred up.Onion and chili paste-stuffed falafel is the reward: like the restaurant it looks ordinary, but the dish is phenomenally tasty.The gooey, cheesy, sweet kunafa pastry served up afterward is likewise delicious.More: CNNGo in Dubai: The extravagant editionFalafel so tasty it's almost become something else.Food-tourism pioneer Frying Pan Adventures, Ahmed's walking tours around a series of unheralded Dubai restaurants, are partly an opportunity for her to share her love and knowledge of favorite Middle Eastern dishes, but she is also something of a pioneer for a different kind of tourism in the city. From a culinary point of view, Dubai's known for its outpost restaurants for celebrity chef empires.They tend to be stuck in an ostentatious tower along with strange spa treatments and a rooftop pool. Ahmed aims to show off an older, far less extrovert part of Dubai.Her beat is the Deira area on the north-eastern side of Dubai Creek, where her family has lived since 1989.Breakfast stopBreakfast to Breakfast (Al Rigga Road, +971 4222 3566) is the second stop on the tour. Ahmed admits she avoided going here for a long time. It looked like a fast food joint -- and Dubai has no shortage of those. And so it was, but not of the chain variety."It does the best manousheh -- a Lebanese take on pizza," Ahmed says (and why not have pizza for breakfast?). It's fired briefly in front of us in the oven, then stretched out ultra-thin so it won't dominate the toppings -- which include sujuk, an Armenian sausage. More: Six things you shouldn't find in the desertFood market forcesGetting Frying Pan Adventures off the ground wasn't just a case of showcasing neglected, but delicious, food from everyday, working Dubai.It was also about fighting the corner -- make that establishing a corner -- for small, entrepreneurial tour companies among the big, mass market operators."In Dubai, you tend to have to be recognized and to throw a lot of money at something, to make it happen," Ahmed says."But that's changing -- small ideas are beginning to take off.""I Live in a Frying Plan" was born when Ahmed returned to Dubai as an adult.Birth of a food blogThirty-year-old Ahmed was born to an Indian family living in the neighboring Emirate Sharjah, who moved to Dubai when she was six. After living in the United States for a while as an adult, she returned to Dubai in 2010 to help with her father's non-food-related business and began writing a food blog -- "I Live in a Frying Pan." She soon found her ideal subject: Dubai's unsung culinary centers.She took pride in locating homely looking joints that excelled in one particular dish.That quest led to finds such as Al Tawasol (Al Rigga Road, +971 4295 9797), a Yemeni restaurant with what resemble private indoor tents complete with Bedouin carpets, at the back. The key dish here is mandi -- buttery chicken designed to be eaten, thoroughly messily, with the fingers. Apparently, the practice stems from traditional water-saving techniques: no plates equals less washing up.More: Best Dubai brunches: The good, the very good and the 'drunch'A culinary conversationIt took a conversation with a friend to spark the idea of using Ahmed's knowledge of the Dubai food scene to set up walking tours. She thought she would only have to do a two-week tour-guiding course before she got started but she hadn't reckoned on Dubai bureaucracy -- resembling some ancient desert defensive system."There are a lot of checks and balances, which is good for keeping out rogue operators, but it stifles creative ideas," she says. "The system is designed for veterans, and makes it extremely hard for an outsider to try anything."Or fry anything. The irony is that Frying Pan Adventures -- finally launched in January 2013 -- offers precisely the more unusual sorts of experiences Dubai tourism chiefs are trying to promote.Unadventurous types probably won't queue up for Ahmed's tours.Dubai goes counterculturalThat's right: Dubai is brushing out the hair gel, washing off the fake tan, putting the gold jewelry in a back drawer and going a little countercultural. In a bid to hit a target of 20 million tourists a year, the city-state's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing wants to pump a lot more money into what it calls cultural and heritage tourism.AKA: things you can do in Dubai that don't have "seven-star" tacked in front of them.So, Ahmed could soon be riding a wave. Already she's having to turn people away to keep the small group ethos.When tourists hate touristsShe seems to have discovered an important and potentially lucrative truth: tourists often don't like other tourists."They get wildly excited when they see a restaurant with no one like them in it," she says.Like at Abshar (Al Maktoum Road, +971 4233 0555) an Iranian restaurant on the first floor of a non-descript mini-mall. It's one of Ahmed's favorites -- for its freshly made eggplant dip, bread sliding out of a roaring oven on wooden paddles and its rich fesenjoon stew of chicken, pomegranate and walnut.Manousheh fans, get in touch.See Frying Pan Adventures for tour dates and to book. More from TravelThe coolest small towns in America are ...TSA finds dog in checked luggageChef Massimo Bottura: The alchemist who reinvented Italian cuisinePowered by Livefyre


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Tokyo, Japan
Going to a massive city where I always stood out as a foreigner and where I could not fluently speak the language was extremely intimidating but well worth it. I got to do things I never thought I would do and I now feel like I could successfully travel anywhere. My study abroad peers were incredibly open and friendly, and the people of Tokyo shared an inspiring and contagious level of trust amongst each other that other societies should envy. I can now truly appreciate just how much I have at home and how much I rely on communication with others for daily life.
Jackie DalkePark University
San José, Costa Rica
Costa Rica's language is Spanish; I didn't know very much Spanish at the time except the basic words. As my time went on in Costa Rica I learned more Spanish and met new people. Every weekend there was an excursion planned for us to go on. Some of the places I went were; Manuel Antonio and Puerto Viejo Costa Rica. I also went on little day trips with other study abroad students to the coffee plantation, national parks, the shopping mall and the movies. This experience opened my eyes to a whole new outlook on life and different cultures. This experience taught me about myself and it also made me adjust and adapt to new language and there values and morals.
Ashley FrazierLincoln University of Missouri
Quito, Ecuador
Studying abroad in Quito, Ecuador was one of the most extraordinary experiences in my life! USFQ has a gorgeous campus and great professors and students. It was a blessing to live with my wonderful host family. I absolutely fell in love with the Ecuadorian people so rich with spirit, love, and joy for life. The country is beautiful and amazing. I swam in a waterfall and relaxed in a volcano lagoon! The best moments were spending time with my family and local friends. My proficiency in Spanish improved tremendously. I plan to go back as well as explore other countries and cultures.
Angela GleanKansas State University
Seville, Spain
My summer in Seville was one of the best experiences of my life. I was able to immerse myself in a completely different culture. I experienced so many amazing things things from bullfights, Flamenco shows, seeing places that are hundreds if not thousands of years old, and eating a lot of helado! My favorite parts about the entire experience were going to the classes. My professors were amazing and I truly learned so much. My housemother, Carmen, was so kind and an unbelievable cook! My time in Spain not only taught me about Spanish people, culture, and history, it taught me a lot about myself and the world around me. I hope that this was the first of many chances I have to travel the world! My advice to other students who are thinking about studying abroad would be to just do it! In college studying abroad is one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to travel the world. If don't want to or are unable to spend a whole semester abroad, do as I did and spend part of your summer abroad. It will be one of the best decisions of your life!
DyNishia MillerUniversity of Indianapolis
Tuscania, Italy
I once dreamed of traveling around the world on a quest toward further life purpose, profound self-exploration, and self-fulfillment. In my study abroad I sought to become a more culturally diverse and understanding individual in regards to the minute differences within a country that brings about the pride in its inhabitants. I have learned that nothing is impossible and what we conceive of as being impossible is simply an act that has yet to be accomplished by the individual who seeks to do so. I can honestly say that studying abroad has given me more than just knowledge; it has provided me with the necessary tools to accomplish what I so eagerly desire in life. I have developed great skills that I will utilize to help others in accomplishing their life goals and dreams. Studying abroad has helped me become a more independent, culturally diverse, and understanding individual. My experiences have shaped me into a new and improved individual and for that I will be forever grateful. Farewell Italy! Until we see each other again in the cities of enlightenment, I thank you for your shared beauty and great experiences.
Gwen NievesSUNY Broome Community College
London, England
During my study abroad trip at Kingston University near London, England I was granted with the opportunity to explore a culture that is so historically rich in literature and architecture, along with a lifestyle that was vastly different from the small town environment I have always been a part of. I cherish the experiences I had with students and faculty from this program, as well as the complete independence that I encountered in my own fascination and exploration of a country that requires much more than a month's visit.
Kimberly WronkiewiczTruman State University
Moscow, Russia
Studying abroad in Russia is quite a unique experience. Russia is an exotic country, and my own experiences were characterized by similarly exotic people and places. From young students to the elderly, on trains and even at the market, many Russians were eager to communicate with American students who earnestly tried to use and learn the Russian language. Meanwhile, in my travels throughout the three capitals of Russia, Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Kazan, I saw the unique churches, museums, and sites of Russia's history. Today, Russia is the product of its many peoples, their culture, and rich history.
Ryan KohlerTruman State University
Christchurch, New Zealand
Needless to say I was on my own; starting from scratch in an unknown world. I still remember my first week, missing home, worrying about how I was going to fit in. Then I met Allie, my best friend while I was abroad. The fear washed away. Everyone has a best friend or two. But this was different. We both had no one else, stuck in this new place. It honestly was friendship at first sight as crazy as it sounds. We both were engineering majors who just wanted to get out of the classroom and explore. And that's what we did. I went to classes too, no worries, but nearly every weekend I traveled. Castle Hill, Queenstown, Picton, Abel Tasman, Arthur's Pass, Mount Cook, talk about adventures! Though New Zealand is absolutely gorgeous, it's not just the place that made it amazing, but the people I met along the way that made it unforgettable. The friends I made and traveled with got closer to me in a few months than people I've been friends with for years! It was our experiences, our adventures together that took our friendship to another level and sealed it for good.
Kim Laufenberg University of Wisconsin—Platteville
Venice, Italy
But not only was if full of many spectacular moments, it was also full of wonderful people. There was the local restaurant owner who helped me study my Italian vocab through pantomime and props. There was the fantastic staff who was always a phone call away and present to help us through any difficult moments. I befriended a monastery of nuns who lived down the road and who welcomed me into their home many a Sunday to attend mass, eat breakfast, share their free time and then sometimes even stay for lunch too. These same sisters offered me a place to stay at another location when I was later backpacking through Europe and who I am still in contact with today.
Samantha ZawistowskiAdelphi University
When I first arrived to Sevilla the only thing I wanted to do was return to the United States. I could not see pass my own fear and insecurities to see the beauty that Spain had to offer. I immediately began to do exactly what I was told not to do. I was comparing Spain to America. Mostly, I complained about the streets and the noise. However, upon returning home and having time to reflect on my experience, I have come to realize studying or even traveling abroad is well worth the journey. Spain was magical. There were Gothic cathedrals, Flamenco dancing, fresh pan everyday, siestas, and wonderful Señoras to make you feel right at home. Now I think every person should journey abroad at least once in life.
Diamond Munerlyn, Lincoln University
Lugano, Switzerland
Studying abroad in Lugano, Switzerland at Franklin College will go down as the best summer in my life--I'm sure of it. There was nothing quite like traveling around Europe for a weekend and having a place to come back to like Lugano. The Swiss are the cleanest, most adventurous, fit, wealthy, and pleasant people I've met in my life and you would not understand until you go to this beautiful country. From the breathtaking views from the Lake and downtown Lugano looking up into the Alps, and the breathtaking views looking down upon the small towns from the mountains is something no picture can capture, because trust me, I tried. When studying at Franklin College, the Resident's Assistants were always finding activities for the students to do together, none of which were inside because who would want to miss the weather and glorious views when sitting indoors? I am making it a priority to travel back to Switzerland within the next five years, and I would be fine only traveling within it's borders. No other country has as much diversity as Switzerland with the French, German, and Italian regions, so it's almost as if you're getting parts of Europe in one. As a result of this diversity, the French, German, and Italian cuisines are all authentic and words can't describe the taste of the delicious food. Go and get the real European experience all within one country, go to Switzerland!
Aubrey KettrickSt Bonaventure University
I would say that everyone should take the opportunity to study abroad as a blessing. The experiences you get are incredible and once in a lifetime. You will see yourself grow as a person over the course of just a few short months. You will learn about yourself, and be tested in every single way imaginable, and unimaginable. You will end the semester saying goodbyes to your best friends, to go home to your best friends. Get out of your room and explore! Talk to everyone, taste everything, and just live life to the fullest. The time goes by too quickly but you will always remember everything. Over time you will see the person you have become, and learn how to balance both of the worlds in one. That is the most incredible part of the journey.
Shimriya Richard, StudentBrookdale Community College
Sevilla, Spain
Sevilla has stolen my heart. Studying abroad in Sevilla has changed me in so many ways. I learned more than just another language. I became very independent and made a lot of new friends from all over the world. I would recommend studying in Sevilla because the lifestyle is amazing. The people are extremely friendly. Life is a little different there but its great. You can walk just about anywhere and the sun is always shining. It is also very accessible to other countries such as Italy, France, Morocco, Sweeden, Germany, Ireland and Belgium.
Sevilla is the best place to study abroad and I will definitely be returning soon.
Marianna Nercesia Hillsborough Community College
I spent my Spring of 2010 in Seville, Spain. I didn�t know too much about Seville but I figured anywhere in Spain had to be good. Seville is such a unique and gorgeous city. The people are generous, the weather is magnificent, and there is a relaxed atmosphere. I have absolutely fallen in love with this place.
Hayley Decker, St Bonaventure University
San Ignacio, Belize
This semester I was a guest in the district of San Ignacio, Belize. Belize as a whole was an amazing experience and I would definitely recommend visiting to other students.
While in Belize I had numerous exotic adventures from climbing Mayan temples to excavating through deep caves. One aspect of Belize that should not be missed is the cave Actun Tunichil Muknal and it�s more than worth the visit.
My stay at Log Cabins Inn was very nice and the staff was very understanding to any of my issues or concerns. While away I made amazing friends from not only Belize and the United States but also made friends from all over the world. While my studies had to end I do not regret choosing Belize for my study abroad destination. I feel it was the best decision I have ever made and even if you�re not an environmental science major you will still find lots of joy in being a visitor in this country.
Thomas Mills Westfield State University
Dundee, Scotland
In Summer 2011 I spent six weeks in Dundee, Scotland. My time there was absolutely fantastic! I learned a great deal about a different culture and I believe I had a truly enriching experience that I know will be beneficial to my career as a physician.
Scotland is a truly beautiful country. I had a chance to visit the Highlands and it was possibly the most beautiful place I have ever been to. The many hills, the green grass, the lochs, and the waterfalls all contributed to the Highland�s beauty. While in the Highlands, I also had a chance to experience Highland Hospitality. The locals of the Highlands are incredibly welcoming and polite.
I got engaged in the culture outside of the classroom simply by meeting and having conversations with locals, visiting other towns, and exploring the beautiful areas.
Brian Kim, Student Truman State University
Angers, France
I studied abroad in Angers, France during the 2010-2011 school year, and it was an incredible experience! So much so that I would love nothing more than to have the opportunity to return there one day! I fell in love with the city not long after arriving, and was sad to have to leave it at the end of my program! I would strongly recommend that any student studying French choose Angers. It is such a gorgeous city, and located only an hour and a half away from Paris by train! Not to mention it has many great spots to visit, such as the castle, which is only about a five minute walk away from the downtown area.
Looking back on my experience, I realize just how great this study abroad program was in terms of improving my French. There's nothing better you can do than becoming immersed in the language you are studying, experiencing every day situations in that foreign language and learning more and more about the host culture until finally starting to blend in a bit and become a part of it. I am so glad that I had this opportunity!
Annecy, France
My study abroad experience has been wonderful and while I am starting to miss my life in the U.S. more and more, I am incredibly lucky to have had these opportunities. I wish that this kind of experience was available to every student, as it was something that I learned a great deal from. This was the first real independent thing I have done in my life, and knowing that I succeeded on my own is an incredible feeling. I had to learn to survive without my parents and their advice, which forced me to make decisions for myself. I had to learn to cope with the differences of another culture, food that I wasn�t used to, living with a family I didn�t know, forcing myself to speak French when all the other students were speaking English. I will never forget my four months in Annecy and I am sure I wont forget my time as an au pair. I see my time studying abroad as a great accomplishment with memories that I will keep forever.
Angers, France I could write a book on the cultural and social richness of France. I can�t really even start to explain just how beautiful of a country it really is and how incredible the people and the places and the food are. You just really have to go there for yourself. But certainly, I am very glad and consider myself fortunate to have had this experience in France.
Andrew Hughes
Bond, Australia
Spending a semester at Bond was an unbelievably amazing experience for me, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. This experience really introduced me to the global community, at Bond the student population is so diverse that no one cares where you�re from. I feel like I made a lot of quality friendships with people from a variety of countries, and I even met my wife � who is German- as a result of studying abroad.
I have many memories from my time in Ireland. It is a beautiful country and I believe that I got to know the place both as a tourist and a local. I spent part of my time travelling to various tourist destinations and part of it staying in Limerick and just hanging out with people. I am entirely satisfied with my study abroad experience and I highly recommend studying abroad to anyone. I hope to return to Ireland in the future.
Angela Scheperle, Student Limerick, Ireland
New Castle Australia
My experience in Newcastle and Australia in general was amazing. I got all of my academics done while still having time to explore such a beautiful country. I definitely got the "travel bug" from my experience and cant wait till my next adventure. It was truly an eye-opening and growing experience. I would change very little to nothing about my experience in Australia- except maybe to stay another year! It was a once in a lifetime experience and I feel I am a much better person for doing it.
SPAIN During the fall semester of my senior year here at St. Bonaventure University I had the most wonderful opportunity to study abroad in Sevilla, Spain. The program lasted for three months and I took of plethora of Spanish courses both at the Universidad de Sevilla, and also at the International College of Seville. Through these classes I was able to deepen my knowledge about Spanish literature, grammar, and culture.
Every other weekend or so the ICS had planned weekend excursions for the entire program, and we were able to visit such cities as Jerez de la Frontera, C�diz, Granada, C�rdoba, and Ronda. We were also allowed to participate in weekly excursions to various historical places around or in Sevilla.
However, there are two moments that trump all of the above mentioned experiences: my host family, and my Spanish intercambio Ricky. While living in Sevilla I lived with the wonderful Garcia family in a small apartment not far from school. One weekend they took my roommate and I to their home pueblo of Segura de Le�n for a weekend, and we were able to participate in the festival of Capeas. Ricky, on the other hand, is a local "Sevillano" who studies English. We would meet a few times a week to help each other practice our langauges. Through him I was able to make friends with a bunch of local Spaniards, and he would take me around Sevilla showing me all the popular spots to visit. I still keep in touch with him today as he hopes to sometime visit the United States.
All in all, I had the experience of a lifetime and I thank my parents, my university, and CCIS for making this experience possible.
Michael Chiponis, Student Sevilla, Spain, St. Bonaventure University
When I first thought of going to Newcastle Australia, it was not something that I was fully committed to. I was having a good time studying my schoolwork where I was, but the thought of studying in a foreign land seemed like a fun idea. After being in Australia for a whole semester, it turned out to be more than just a �fun idea�, it turned out to be one of the best decisions I have ever made.
My first day in Australia, it was 111 degrees Fahrenheit. I was coming from Ellensburg where the temperature was hovering around 5 degrees Fahrenheit. After a week or so of brutal heat, I started to get used to it and was able to come outside and enjoy the weather. The first Australians I met were too friendly to be real. They wanted to know all about me, where I was from, and why the heck I wanted to come to Australia. My answer now; because Australians really are the most friendly people in the world.
I was living in the International House of my school so I was able to meet people from all over Africa, Europe, Asia, and America. My trip down to Australia was about studying in a new place. After my journey, I can easily say I learned more from the immersion of 50 different cultures than I did during the class time. Some of my best friends that I will be keeping frequent contact with live in Germany, France, South Korea, and Australia.
I cannot stress how many great times I had �down under�. I never once felt out of place there. It was as if the Australians whole goal was to make the exchange students feel at home. Late nights on the town, social gatherings at all hours of the day, awesome professors, intriguing discussions with other foreigners, and the creation of new lifelong friends are a small part of why going to Australia was one of the best choices I have made.
PERU This summer, I spent 40 days in Cusco, Peru, and every single day I learned something new! Cusco is a city filled with an extraordinary culture that everyone should have the opportunity of experiencing.
During my stay there, I visited Machu Picchu, an ancient city that attracts many tourists, and one of the reasons why visitors come to Peru. It was absolutely beautiful, and I enjoyed every minute of it!
My home stay in Cusco was wonderful! My courses, taken at USIL were exciting. I�m glad I selected Cusco as my first study abroad experience. I made new friends, gained knowledge of the Inca culture and expanded my Spanish vocabulary. If I could do it all over again, I would! Sadly it has come to an end, but action-packed, culturally fulfilling Cusco will always be in my memories. I would recommend this program to anyone, and I look forward to sharing my Cusco pictures with everyone I meet.
Tyisha Massey, Student Cusco, Peru, Lincoln University
COSTA RICA Getting off the plane at the San Jose, airport in Costa Rica, I really did not know what to expect whether good or bad. I just knew that I would be spending five weeks of summer in one of the most beautiful places on earth. I have been to quite a few countries but my study abroad experience in Costa Rica is one that I will always remember. I can wholeheartedly say that I never had a "bad day" while studying abroad. My tica family welcomed me into their home with open arms. I was one of three students living with the family and we all bonded together as if we were all a part of their family. I attended Universidad Veritas, in San Jose, Costa Rica where I took an intercultural communication class and a Spanish class . The ticas and ticos of Costa Rica have a rich culture that draws in each and everyone who have visited their country. My program was not solely surrounded by school work but we were able to visit different parts of Costa Rica every weekend; from the sunny beach of Tamarindo, the reggae filled Puerto Viejo to canopying through the rainforest of Monteverde. It was the best two for one experience of my life. My greatest disappointment was that rainy Sunday morning when I had to board my flight back to my American home. Shanalee Gallimore, Graduate Student Florida A&M University
BELIZE The best place to learn is out of the classroom, and that's exactly what I did, and out of it I got the most incredible experience of meeting new people, learning a new culture as well as learning about myself.
Jessica Ness University of Indianapolis
ARGENTINA Study abroad is AMAAAAZING! But honestly, if you want to learn more about yourself and your home country, study outside the United States. It will change your life and your view on life... Hannah Snyder University of Indianapolis
SPAIN Sevilla, Spain is the largest city in, and, subsequently, the capital of, Spain's fabled autonomy of Andalusia. I studied and lived here for four months with a Spanish family. At first I was nervous with the idea of living with a family that does not speak English, but quickly learned that Spaniards are extremely warm people who are very, very welcoming. My senora was extremely kind, considerate and helpful. The school where I studied was equally as fun and helpful. Located next to Parque de Mar�a Luisa, I found my self going for walks after class and taking in beautiful Sevilla and all it has to offer. Thanks to ICS, I went on many excursions, provided by the school, throughout Andalusia. I also took advantage of Sevilla's location and made trips to Morocco, Portugal, Madrid, etc. In my short four months here I made friends and memories from all over the world that will last me a lifetime!
Kevin McGarr St. Bonaventure University
Chambery is a quaint little town that I very much enjoyed living in. Since I was born and raised in Miami, it was especially nice to live in a small city and get the feel for their way of life. As for the bad reputation of the French here in the states, I have made it my personal mission to correct it. Everywhere I went people were very kind, considerate, and incredibly helpful. School itself was a pleasure to attend. The chateau where schooling took place was located on a beautiful park, which consisted of several rose gardens. After class I loved sitting in the park and taking in the scenery. The school also offered a variety of excursions throughout the week that made assimilating much easier. In five weeks, I took approximately 800 pictures and have made friends around the world during this once in a lifetime experience!
Priscilla Carolyn Schmidt Miami-Dade College
I spent a month in Morocco as part of an intensive Arabic program, and it was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life. One weekend a small group of us went to explore the Old Medina of Fes, which is basically a gigantic, maze-like bazaar that seemingly never ends. Around lunch time, an Arab man offered to bring us to his restaurant and we gladly followed. Fifteen minutes later, and after walking into more and more desolate areas, we finally arrived at the restaurant equally terrified and relieved. The restaurant/home had the most beautiful tile work I have ever seen, the food was delicious, and the service was incomparable. After our meal we looked through the guest book and came upon one of the few English passages that read: "If you are an American and you were brought here the same route that we were, you are probably feeling very scared. Relax and don't worry. Sometimes you just have to trust people." This story summarizes what I learned while abroad. Even though you may be scared and very unfamiliar with a different culture, people are the same no matter where you go. And when people of two different places and cultures can both share an amazing day in the Medina, that is the beauty of travel and one of the joys of partaking on a journey abroad.
Ashia Wehbe Montana State University
This past summer, I studied abroad at the American University of Rome. It was truly an experience of a lifetime. While there, I studied Italian language, culture, and art, but also learned much more. This experience taught me so much about the world, others, and myself. I stepped out of the comfort zone I know and tried new things. From figuring out the Roman bus system, to interacting with the people of Italy, to exploring the glorious city of Rome, each day brought new excitement and new challenges. I am so glad I had the chance to study abroad. It is an experience I will never forget.
Genna Randazzo Central Michigan University
This past summer I was fortunate enough to study abroad in Florence, Italy; and it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life thus far. I loved walking around the city being immersed in the culture and eating all the amazing pasta and gelato I could get! I also thoroughly enjoyed the class I took while I was there. It was a history course focusing on the civilization and culture during the Italian Renaissance. Before I took this class, I knew of the painters and sculptors of the Italian Renaissance, but I had no idea about the politics going on at that time. I learned all about the Medici family, and their significance during the Italian Renaissance. Even though my class was three hours long Monday through Thursday, I enjoyed every second of it. I had a wonderful professor who kept my attention and always had funny stories to tell about his childhood in Florence or his world famous moped. I knew study abroad was a great opportunity, but I never knew it would be so life changing!
Angela Mendoza Saint Xavier University
My study abroad experience was by far the best experience of my life. Overall, it has enabled me to grow as an individual and has opened my eyes to the world. Studying abroad taught me how to adapt to the different cultures in aspects such as language, food, and body language as a way of life. Basically, I had to adjust certain things in my life to fit into their culture. For instance, Italy has a time called "siesta," where they close everything down to go home and take a nap, or eat lunch, and relax with family. Studying abroad also allows you to meet lots of new people. I met some of my best friends on this study abroad trip, and we still talk and see each other even though some of them live half way across the country. Everyday is a new learning adventure and what I have learned and experienced is knowledge that will last for a lifetime. For all of those students that are concerned about finances, I was in the same situation. But given what I know today, I wouldn't trade my experience for a million dollars.
Anthony Tisi College of Staten Island/CUNY
March 01, 2015
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California's college and university system has long served as a model for the rest of the country in producing capable, educated young people at a cost that was largely affordable for the middle class. However, the 50 year old "Master Plan for Higher Education" is sagging under the weight of budget cuts and rising tuition.
Under the plan, California created a three tiered system anchored by the University of California, a conglomerate of elite universities designed to provide an exceptional undergraduate and graduate level education for the top 12.5% of the state's students. Additionally, the California State University (CSU) complex was designed to educate the states top third of high school graduates. Everyone else wishing to continue their education could attend one of the many low cost community colleges throughout the state.
However, the recent economic downturn and resulting budget crisis has jeopardized the entire higher education system in California. While the state continues to spend significant resources on entitlements and social programs, many students are scrambling to find a way to attend college.
The UC Board of Regents recently raised tuition to more than $10,000, which is largely unaffordable for many California families. Higher fees have also been imposed on many professional schools, threatening their ability to produce the high income professionals many of California's businesses rely on to grow and prosper and the state needs for a robust tax base.
CSU recently reported that it will be forced to turn away an expected 45,000 eligible students next year due to funding issues. The community college system while still affordable, is struggling to accommodate the significant increase in enrollment. Students often find themselves unable to enroll in any classes due to extreme overcrowding and courses being eliminated.
The reasons for the dire situation are complex and multi faceted. Universities have raised tuition by an average of 5% after inflation throughout the last decade, endeavoring to build world class buildings and research facilities, develop premier academic staffs, fund competitive sports teams and expensive marketing campaigns. Additionally, both CSU and UC have provided extremely generous perks and unnecessary compensation packages for administrators.
The end result of a higher educational system that is unable to fill the needs of business and society are obvious. California companies that are unable to attract the talent they need to fill their available jobs will begin to look at relocation options, particularly considering the state's burdensome tax structure. As a result, the tax base will suffer further, potentially sending the budget into a perpetual downward spiral resulting in even further cuts in education.
While the Board of Regents for both universities scramble to implement a 30% tuition increase by 2010 to cover the estimated 1.4 billion deficit, the 7.7 billion spent annually to educate the children of California's illegal aliens continues to be ignored.
While American citizens see their own children unable to afford a college education, federal and state governments continue to hide behind the archaic 1982 Plyler Vs. Doe U.S. Supreme Court decision that upheld the right of every child to a public education regardless of immigration status. As college tuitions continue to rise, courses will be eliminated and students will be forced into vocations and lower paying jobs. Ultimately, it will be interesting to see how long this intolerable situation is allowed to continue.
A simple legislative initiative in Congress could rectify the educational inequity and immediately solve the budget crisis in numerous states. However, now that government mandated health care has been forced on the American public, Congress plans to turn its attention to amnesty for illegal aliens instead.