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KINGS BEACH, Calif. - In a soft tone, Amy Kelley talks about how she grew up in Newtown, Conn. She says it is a quaint, rural town with cobblestone streets. She says she doesn't know any of the city's families whose loved ones died in the tragic shooting on Dec. 14, 2012, at Sandy Hook Elementary School.One senses if she were living there now, she would be dedicating her life to helping them.Young and energetic, Kelley - who became executive director of the North Tahoe Family Resource Center in November 2012 - often displays a kind, compassionate smile. Her life has been about helping people help themselves. As a young adult, she traveled extensively in Europe, living in Budapest for two years. There she met Jim, her future husband. Together they traveled through Russia and through Eastern and Western Europe. One salient memory of Kelley's was her adventure of driving from Budapest to Istanbul in a truck with three male travel companions (one of whom was Jim).She said she saw much poverty on her travels but also saw the strength of people who in other ways had a wonderful quality of life many Americans don't know."I saw families able to sit down to dinner and share time together," said Kelley, admitting, however, that she also saw needs not being met.Through her adult life, Kelley has been heavily involved with social work with nonprofit organizations before taking a break to become a stay-at-home mom to her three children. But as her children became self-reliant, she was drawn back to empowering people, something she wanted to add to her family life."Sometimes, we can't deny what really calls us," she said.Kelley spoke with a quiet passion this week when discussing the family resource center."I feel like this is my home and my community, and that's my responsibility to shepherd this organization," she said.Aside from Kelley, the center has a talented staff of seven, all with unique roles to connect with the community, she said."We connect folks with resources where they would like to strengthen that part of their lives," she said.A common misconception within the North Tahoe community is that the center simply gives to those in need. To the contrary, she said its real purpose is to empower people so they do not need assistance.The center is connected with a network of programs and services that many community members could use, but are not aware of, Kelley said, such as programs for low-cost health insurance and others directing families who cannot access health insurance to alternative health care. Another program, the MAMA Club, helps parents deal with family challenges, and the center also offers English as a second language classes, among other services.As if heading the center is not enough to keep her busy, Kelley also is board chair for the Sacramento Regional Children's Health Initiative, "Healthy Kids, Healthy Futures," is an executive board member of "California Coverage & Health Initiatives" and is a board member of the Boys and Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe.So how does she do it all and still have time for her family?"I have a great husband. He has supported me in everything I've ever done," she said.Kelley replaces former North Tahoe Family Resource Center Director Emilio Vaca, who left in September. The center is located at 8321 Steelhead Ave. in Kings Beach. Learn more by calling 530-546-0952 or visiting www.northtahoefrc.org.- Frank Fisher is a freelance reporter for the Sierra Sun and North Lake Tahoe Bonanza. He can be reached for comment at firstname.lastname@example.com.
February 8, 2013 | Back to: News


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Create Great UX in an Agile World by Conducting Lean UX Research
The agile software development process has gained tremendous popularity recently, adopted by many companies to deliver high-quality products through iterative launches and testing.
In contrast to the traditional water fall model, in an agile environment design and development teams collaborate very closely and there is little step-by-step procedure or upfront planning—decisions are made and solutions are implemented on the fly, in a highly iterative and flexible manner.
However, the lack of planning and lead-time in the process poses a major challenge to user experience research. Remember, UX research is supposed to bring a strategic perspective into software development, helping the product team figure out priorities and focus on the right things to work on based on user insight. But the making-decisions-on-the-fly mindset underlying the agile process seems to make conducting UX research improbable and unnecessary.
This leads to the questions, is UX research even needed any more in an agile environment? And, if so, how do we conduct effective UX research in this context?
The answer: lean UX research—conducting research in a quick, but not dirty, way.
Garbage in, Garbage out
A common objection to conducting UX research in the agile model is that we can simply launch, conduct A/B testing, and learn from the testing results. Using real market data to validate products, there's no more need for UX research.
A fatal flaw exists in this premise. Test-and-learn—choosing winners among variations through A/B testing—can tell you which version is better but fails to answer the question of why it's better. More importantly, it cannot tell you if there's another, untested version, that's better than all the variations you A/B tested, due to the lack of insight into "why."
Furthermore, test-and-learn doesn't come free. It takes time and effort, not to mention great skills, to do it right. To begin with, you need to form good hypotheses, create variations that can effectively test the hypotheses, and then spend a lot of time analyzing the results. Most A/B tests don't even give you clear data because the variations are not that different in terms impact on user behavior.
It's what I call "garbage in, garbage out." Good consumer insight, the output of testing, depends on high-quality input, things like valid hypotheses and well-constructed design alternatives. If you don't know what matters to users, your A/B tests will have low-quality input that will only get you misinformed output.
To know what really matter to users, you have to rely on UX research that generates an in-depth, qualitative understanding of users and products.
More Effective UX Research
Looking closer, you'll find that the agile process not only makes sense in supporting a faster, more effective software development process, it's also a great opportunity for UX research to truly influence the final output!
Under the old water fall model, the product team moves through strategy, research, design, and development in clearly defined steps. In this environment, we can plan research far in advance and we have the luxury of conducting very comprehensive and thorough studies. However, because research and development are separated in the process, researchers have limited influence over the team in terms of actually implementing the research findings.
In an agile world, there's no wrong time for conducting UX research
In an agile environment, however, due to the fact that teams interact more frequently and more closely, UX researchers are able to conduct research to support the ever-changing team needs and turn insights into actions quickly. That's what lean UX research is all about.
A Quick Guide to Conducting Lean UX Research
So how do we conduct effective research under tight timeline to improve business results? It requires researchers to apply a few different approaches, and I'll go through them one by one.
Conduct UX research throughout the product development cycle
Traditionally UX research is conducted before the development stage. Given the rapid iterations of product development in any setting (agile or traditional), that leaves little room for conducting research extra. Due to the iterative nature of the agile process, you can conduct research during the development phase or after a product is launched, when insight turns into action for the next release, which could be just weeks away.
Another benefit is, testing QA versions or live products saves us lots of time when creating prototypes for testing and can yield better insight because the product is fully functional and users can explore it in natural ways and give context-relevant feedback.
In an agile world, there's no wrong time for conducting UX research.
Conduct UX research to complement A/B tests
Given that a big part of the Agile process is test-and-learn (typically meaning A/B testing) we need to conduct UX research to complement A/B testing. A typical way to do this is to conduct a usability study on the different variations currently being A/B tested. Given that the product is already live with the different variations, it's very easy for us to test the product, as there's no need to do prototyping or wireframing in preparing for the usability study.
Conducted in conjunction with A/B testing, the usability study can tell us "why" one variation is better than the other, and if a better solution outside of the variations tested exists. During one project I was asked to conduct a usability study to evaluate the variations of a live-site A/B test in order to encourage users' shopping behavior. Combining insight from the UX research with data from the A/B test, I helped the client create an experience in which users were much more likely to go through the shopping flow, and we saw a truly dramatic lift in revenue as a result.
Develop ongoing user research program
You can put in place an ongoing research program with a pre-determined testing schedule and an ongoing recruiting effort. For example, your company can conduct user interviews on a monthly basis with different topics for each month. Because the schedule is fixed in advance, the team is able to plan and recruit participants with a lot of lead-time. In an agile environment, due to the speediness of development and design changes, you will always find something worth testing every month (see the graph below).
I've conducted this kind of ongoing UX research for a client, and each month, we received requests from various product teams in terms of topics to test and were able to plan accordingly. This approach informed the company of up-to-date usability issues and user concerns on an ongoing basis, leading to quick solutions and many new product ideas to fill the gaps.
Be creative and flexible about process
In an agile environment, we need to drastically shorten the cycle by doing more things at once, taking out unnecessary steps, and applying alternative research approaches. For instance, you can use friends and colleagues as participants, assuming they fit your target user's profile. You can also create a high-level discussion guide that addresses key research questions but that doesn't contain detailed verbiage used for the interview, and you can write a quick findings report rather than a fully-developed, polished report.
I conducted an informal usability study in the form of diary-style short surveys to influence the design requirements and improve usability of the first launch of an iPhone app for a major financial company. The app, which greatly benefitted from the informal user research, later won a Silver award from w3c and received a five-star average rating in the app store.
Agile ≠ Poor Quality
UX and market researchers often fear that conducting research the lean way means sacrificing quality for speediness. Speaking from personal experience, I find the fear unfounded. If anything, this fear reveals a deeply rooted misconception of quality.
Quality of UX research is not about research deliverables like polished reports and pretty PowerPoint presentation graphics, it's all about the quality of the product and the kind of user experienced it offers. Defined as such, the lean UX research approach leads to higher quality because we can more effectively influence product teams in producing great products this way.
This is, of course, requires that we're thoughtful about research methodology: interviewing users with the right kind of profile, asking relevant questions, taking great care in extracting user insight, and making actionable recommendations.
At first glance, the agile process poses challenges to conducting UX research. Some might even think UX research is no longer relevant under this new development model. But looking closer, you'll see that the agile process can actually present more opportunities for leveraging UX research to actually achieve visible business results. As long as product teams commit themselves to listening to user feedback, having open communication within the team, staying responsive in leveraging user insight, and adopting some of the techniques mentioned above, they will be able to conduct and benefit UX research in this new environment.
Image of agile orangutan courtesy Shutterstock
Add new comment
Team members moving in and out of projects can be a challenge as we know there is little to no documentation in agile. How do you seamlessly transfer knowledge between UX research/insights/designs?
I'd add that for UX Research to truly be incorporated into the agile process buy in from stakeholders is important. Stakeholders can become the champions of UX work once they see the influence, and can help involve/partner up with UX research/teams to drive success as project moves along.
Hi Len, these are great questions! For the first question, I've been using the so called lean UX research report, which is typically in the format of Word document, with all the findings, recommendations, and screen shots, to document the findings. That won't take too long to put together and that can help knowledge transfer. That said, when there're new team members joining, we should walk the new members through the lean research reports to get them up to speed about past findings.
Yes I completely agree that stakeholder buy-in is crucial, otherwise the findings will not be leveraged to improve the UX. Lean UX research is quite effective in getting stakeholders' buy-in, because of its quick turnaround time and immediate results. Also, lean means the UXers work very closely with the stakeholders, which should also help with buy-in.
Interesting article Frank. We've been trying some more lean research techniques in my team and they do work. Taking designers along to sessions with users while research is going on cuts out the need for lengthy reporting.
However, clients and designers still want the detail. So for us it's a juggling act between having to constantly provide the context and providing enough information that an ever-evolving product can leverage the same insight as it moves from one channel to another.

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WebMD Symptom Checker helps you find the most common medical conditions indicated by the symptoms bloating or fullness, diarrhea, tenderness to touch and weight gain including Irritable bowel syndrome, Gastroenteritis, and Food poisoning.
There are 58 conditions associated with bloating or fullness, diarrhea, tenderness to touch and weight gain. The links below will provide you with more detailed information on these medical conditions from the WebMD Symptom Checker and help provide a better understanding of causes and treatment of these related conditions.
Irritable bowel syndrome is a common condition that causes painful spasms and cramping in the large intestine.
Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the stomach and intestine that causes diarrhea and vomiting.
Food poisoning can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, and weakness.
Traveler's diarrhea causes watery diarrhea and cramps, sometimes with a low-grade fever.
Gastroenteritis (stomach flu) is a viral condition that causes diarrhea and vomiting.
Medication side effects include nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, weakness, dizziness, seizures, and more.
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Metabolic syndrome is a group of risk factors that together increase the risk of developing health problems.
Night-eating syndrome (NES) is compulsive eating during the night.
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Sickle cell disease symptoms include repeated infections, yellow skin, fatigue, dizziness, pain, and more.
A skin abscess, or boil, is a swollen, painful, red and warm lump of skin that may rupture and drain pus.
Cushing's syndrome is a condition caused by exposure to high levels of a hormone called cortisol over time
Excessive weight lifting can lead to include muscle aches, strains, sprains, cramps, and injuries.
Amebiasis is an intestinal parasitic infection causing diarrhea, cramps, gas, fever, and fatigue.
Iron poisoning causes abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and dehydration.
Helicobacter, bacteria in the digestive tract, causes peptic ulcers and their associated pain and burning.
Hyperparathyroidism can cause fatigue and weakness, increased thirst, impaired thinking, and bone fractures.
Ulcerative colitis causes swelling in the large intestine and can lead to cramping, diarrhea, and more.
Depression is a painful sadness that interferes with a child's schoolwork, family life, and social activities.
Diverticulosis is a condition of the colon and causes pain, cramping, infection, bleeding, and other symptoms.
Cellulitis, a bacterial infection of the skin, causes red, tender skin that is usually swollen and warm.
Rotavirus is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines leading to diarrhea and vomiting.
Salmonella are a type of bacteria that can infect the body and cause diarrhea, cramps, and fever.
Shigellosis is irritation of the stomach and intestine and causes bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.
Young children with encopresis soil their underwear or clothing with unintentional bowel movements.
A gallstone attack occurs when a stone blocks the bile duct, causes right upper abdominal pain and cramping.
Antibiotic-associated diarrhea is frequent, watery bowel movements that happen after taking antibiotics.
Celiac disease, which is an intestinal reaction to gluten, can cause gas, diarrhea, bloating, and weight loss.
Colon cancer is often asymptomatic, but it can cause constipation, bowel obstruction, bloody stool and more.
Crohn's disease is a digestive condition that causes swelling, cramping, diarrhea, and nutritional problems.
Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disease that causes the body to produce abnormally thick and sticky mucus.
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Typhoid fever is a life-threatening illness and causes fever, general aches and pains, headache, and weakness.
Small intestine cancer is rare and often has no symptoms, but can cause symptoms in its advanced stages.
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Top Definition
a bff who always does stuff with you, for example, poops (or smashes), collects baseball cards, etc. also enjoys a light snack every now and again( preferably a chocolate rice krispie treat). favorite number is 33
yo, you see number 33? hes my best friend, hes a schlitzer.
door jkitty13
6 december 2010


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Orioles hope for another terrific outing from Tillman
After a handful of rough outings, Mendoza aims for quality start
Chris Tillman is coming off his best start of the season, eight shutout innings against his hometown Angels on Thursday night, the 25-year-old right-hander's third straight quality start.
He'll get a chance to continue his hot stretch -- and extend the Orioles' winning streak to four games-- against the Royals on Wednesday night at Oriole Park at Camden Yards.
Tillman was at his best Thursday, allowing only three hits and two walks as he mowed down the Angels on 114 pitches over eight innings. He didn't issue a walk after the first inning, struck out three and retired 20 of the final 21 batters he faced.
"It was a tough lineup, so we knew we'd have to mix a lot of pitches to keep them off balance," Orioles catcher Matt Wieters said Thursday. "The biggest thing was that Tillman was able to control the ball in tonight. He was able to back them off the plate a little bit and throw some strikes in where you couldn't just lean out there. That made his offspeed stuff even better."
While Tillman was on top of his game in his hometown of Anaheim, he's actually struggled at home this season. He's 0-1 with a 5.87 ERA in his three home starts compared to 2-0 with a 1.86 ERA in three road outings. On top of all that, he's 0-1 with a 7.84 ERA in two starts against the Royals at Oriole Park. But as well as he's pitched lately, he should head into Wednesday's start with plenty of confidence no matter what the numbers say.
Meanwhile, Royals starter Luis Mendoza returned to the rotation last Wednesday after not starting for 18 days and gave up six runs on seven hits -- including three homers -- against the Rays. In between starts, he pitched 2 1/3 innings of scoreless relief.
While Kansas City's starters have been mostly effective at going deep into games -- they've gone at least six innings in 22 of 29 contests -- Mendoza has failed to do so in each of his last two starts. Compounding the problem, of course, is the amount of time Mendoza has had to wait between outings as the Royals' No. 5 starter.
He threw six strong innings in his 2013 debut against the Phillies, but he's given up 13 earned runs over his last two starts.
Royals: Tejada excited to face old club
Miguel Tejada started at third base Tuesday night for three reasons, according to manager Ned Yost. First, he's hit well lately. Second, the Royals were facing a left-handed pitcher with -- here's the third reason -- one of Tejada's former teams, the Orioles. Tejada was a star in Baltimore from 2004-07 and played there again in 2010.
"It's not just because I'm in the lineup against my old team, it's because I'm playing," said a smiling Tejada, who went 2-for-3 with two runs.
Orioles: Davis returns to lineup
First baseman Chris Davis went 0-for-3 with two strikeouts in the Orioles' series opener against the Royals on Tuesday, but of greater concern, he said beforehand that his injured right knee is feeling fine. Davis hurt his knee running out a ball against the Angels on Friday but felt well enough to play Tuesday.
"I think it was one of those things where you kind of realize you're not invincible," Davis said. "I've never had any injuries in my career where they've caused me to miss any time."
Worth noting
• Entering this series, the five members of the Orioles' rotation owned a combined 12-18 record and 5.88 ERA in 43 career games against the Royals.
• Prior to Tuesday's game, the Royals led the Majors in two-out offense, hitting .293 (93-for-317) as a club with 52 RBIs -- or 43 percent of the club's 122 runs -- entering the game. Perhaps fittingly, Kansas City's three runs Tuesday night came with two outs.
• Orioles second baseman Brian Roberts (right hamstring) will travel to Dallas on Wednesday to meet with Dr. Daniel Cooper in an attempt to speed up his recovery. Roberts ruptured a tendon behind his right knee on April 4 against Tampa Bay while sliding, but his rehab has not progressed as quickly as he'd like.
Adam Berry is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter at @adamdberry. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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- Studio: FilmDistrict
- Release Date: Mar 22, 2013
User Score
Mixed or average reviews- based on 318 Ratings
User score distribution:
Positive: 197 out of 318
Mixed: 49 out of 318
Negative: 72 out of 318
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Jun 29, 2013
Apr 9, 2013A competent action flick, perfectly slotted for pre-summer release. Various plot devices are hardly believable, but you just go with it in this type of movie. Predictable, but fun.
Nov 5, 2013
Jul 2, 2013it could be worse and i guess if you can stand another "oh my god we are all victims" super patriotic US movie you can live with it as popcorn movie i guess.
for the others its 2003ish jack bauer 10 years too late. we have seen everything here better. i left after having watched 70% of the movie.. not worth the lifetime. -
Jul 18, 2013
Aug 10, 2013
Oct 18, 2013
Jun 1, 2013
Apr 8, 2013
Oct 25, 2013Like alot have already said, it's quite Die Hard-esque, the attack sequences were pretty decent, but there's an element called "plausibility" that they punted and that makes this a one-time watch instead of a classic to view repeatedly. I do wonder, though, if Obama requested a Secret Service briefing to ensure such elements of attack couldn't be exploited.
Jun 29, 2013The movie is so ludicrous and unrealistic on how it unfolds, that its hard to take anything seriously. Some thrills and action sequences can't make up for the slightly better Sci-Fi channel visual effects.
Apr 29, 2013A B movie with an A-list cast of actors, they put in a yeomen-like effort but can't salvage the overly generic dialogue and plot. I love action, and that was done reasonably well without being anything special. As some have noted it's kinda like an old-school 80's action film with Gerald Butler standing in for Chuck Norris.
Apr 23, 2013
May 29, 2014This review contains spoilers, click expand to view.
Jun 30, 2013VERY PREDICTABLE! It only takes one main character to save the world.... Crap. There's nothing new that I have watched. The president will be saved no matter what lol if you want to feel good watch this cos it's like fairytale to me
Jun 28, 2014This review contains spoilers, click expand to view.
Nov 10, 2013
Dec 31, 2013A ridiculous rah rah American political movie that is a joke from start to finish. The anti terrorist sentiment rules every aspect with the righteousness of running rampant over every scene. Infantile and terribly predictable.
Apr 7, 2013
Mar 22, 2013It's essentially the first Die Hard meets Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2... (and actually, it was way better than that most recent stinky entry in the Die Hard franchise).
Apr 14, 2013Laughable plot, careless CGI, anticlimactic ending, and uninteresting characters. I wanted to enjoy myself, but I just couldn't get past all the mindlessness. Watch at your own rate.
Mar 31, 2013Simply awful, acting is very poor and topic has been done to death. Needed more to be orginal but it fell short shame really, I felt rather disapointed I was expecting more.
Apr 9, 2013A movie that bring the audience right back to 80's action movies. Crappy effects, unbelievable plot and over the top action sequences. This is the recipe to a good old action movie, simple yet many other movies have failed at it like the last stand. Great movie for good old mindless fun.
I dot think this movie is gonna wipe the oscars but is certainly worth a matinee price. -
Mar 25, 2013
Apr 5, 2013Not good. Not good at all. This was the single most over hyped movie I have seen since The Dark Knight Rises. The cgi sucks, the acting is mediocre at best, and it's incredibly boring and tedious.
Mar 23, 2013Truly a horrible movie. Not the actors' fault--they did well enough. Just a dumb plot with completely implausible elements. Don't watch this. You'd be better off staying home and watching re-runs of West Wing.
Mar 24, 2013I can't believe I paid money to watch this movie. Absolutely terrible. The only reason I didn't give it a zero is because there were a few decent parts. If you are a remotely intelligent person you will find this movie's plot repulsive. It makes no sense at all, characters die for no reason, the CGI is awful, just a very poor movie.
Mar 23, 2013This is a GREAT action movie. I'm judging it based on an action movie not a movie up for an oscar. It has a lot of cool action scenes, good plot, well acted and was intense. I think it is the perfect action movie.
Mar 22, 2013This review contains spoilers, click expand to view.
Mar 22, 2013This is a great action movie. Reminiscent of the original Die Hard and Under Siege. Well acted, high body count and well paced, the film never gets preachy or off topic. Not believable, but still a great experience and still better than the other action movies that have come out this year.
Mar 31, 2013This script is corny and the acting is very uneven. Gerard Butler is fine as the main badass. There is a tremendous 20-25 minute action sequence. Very uneven film. Didn't anyone day anything to these people about how stupid this is? Think Die hard crossed with in the line of fire and ask why?
May 18, 2013Terribly under developed characters that made no sense. Overall plot holes made the action scenes hard to watch. Something that is "impossible" is terribly easy in the next scene... in more than one instance. Probably best to avoid this one.
May 3, 2013
Apr 15, 2013
Mar 23, 2013
Mar 22, 2013
Mar 22, 2013This is one wild ride! It will be too much for some people (too much noise, too much blood, etc etc) but that's okay. If you're able to suspend your disbelief, Fuqua's pacing zips along so fast that you bounce over the plot holes. It's like a roller coaster you'll want to get back on as soon as it's over. Butler, Freeman, Basset, Eckhart, et al are terrific! Do not be swayed see it for yourself
Mar 22, 2013
Mar 22, 2013
Jun 4, 2013"Olympus Has Fallen" is a taunt, exciting, edgy and just a flat out terrific action movie. More along the lines of a Die Hard for this generation, Antoine Fuqua has created one truly kick ass film, Olympus does not fall, in fact its quite the opposite.".. A-
Apr 4, 2013
Aug 24, 2013An absolute piece of that shows our Secret Service guys as naive idiots has are running into bullets instead of taking cover, arranging defense perimeter and calling for enforcements. Only certified idiots can believe that something like that can indeed happen especially after 9/11. Watching this junk insults my intelligence.
Apr 28, 2013If you have seen Die Hard, the original, then you've seen this. So-so remake in which you know how this is ending. Lot of destruction and people dying. And our hero? LOL
Mar 22, 2013
Mar 22, 2013
Mar 26, 2013i guest this movie goal for give up nationalisme the people americ aof attack by other country,,because this few month there issues attack from north korea and others countryt,,,this punish for people america for support to israel.
Jun 28, 2013Plenty of great action but a bit formulaic. I also get sick of these scenarios where the President has to decide between the lives of people close to him and the lives of billions of people. Shouldn't this be a no-brainer?
Mar 25, 2013
Mar 28, 2013
Mar 25, 2013
Apr 24, 2013
Apr 1, 2013Quick sum up: Salt meets Rambo meets Mars attacks (Only the stuff blowing up).
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Apr 10, 2013
Apr 17, 2013This review contains spoilers, click expand to view.
Mar 23, 2013this film is much better than I expected. Its extremely action-packed and has very interesting characters. America FTW guys! The most patriotic movie i've seen in a while.
May 3, 2013
Jun 27, 2013The Navy Admiral SHOULD have died before giving his code. The "Madaam" Secretary would have died before giving her code. "Send in the Seals"? They should have sent the Army Rangers... Ah well. Hollywood is seldom right. Still, a good action flick with a capable protagonist.
Apr 12, 2013Very good film. I quite enjoyed it for an action movie and thought the actors did a great job. A couple things could have been touched up on or more utilized, but nothing major and the ending could have been a little more extended but not much... Those are minor grips. Otherwise, check it out. Definately worth the price of admission (I went to an afternoon viewing of it)
Apr 22, 2013It's cliche-ridden in almost every corner, but enjoyable for what it is. Just turn off your brain. Starts off high-octane, but ultimately could have used more action. Not because it is utterly lacking, but because it has little other substance to offer. Oh, and if you are Korean, you are going to LOVE the ultra-bad "Korean" accents.
Jun 29, 2013its a good action movie with advanced gun fights and well written script.they were some loop holes such as even after Bulter resigned from secret service his access were not removed.Fight scenes and acting is quite professional.Certainly worth the money and time i spend.End is bit an american propaganda but its an Hollywood movie so deal with it.
Mar 23, 2013
Mar 24, 2013the first part of the movie was.......boring.but after 15 minutes the movie was very good actually,and it was very interasting and thrilling so it succeed to help this movie get a 9 out of me.
Mar 27, 2013
Mar 25, 2013It may be wholly unoriginal and occasionally outrageous, but those factors don't change the truth "Olympus Has Fallen" is a suspenseful, thrilling, well-acted, and (Most importantly) fun action flick.
Apr 3, 2013
Mar 29, 2013
Mar 24, 2013
Jun 29, 2013Is this a Die Hard movie, yes. Is there cheesy dialogue, yes. Is there some sub par CGI, yes. Is this a fun time, absolutely. When people talk about brainless action movies this is what they mean. Unlike movies like the Expendables or Die Hard 5 this film had a story that was at least interesting.
Apr 30, 2013This film was great for me it was the die hard film we didn't get in February really good acting and action it was everything I wish for in a action movie. I would definitely see it again. See I have no idea why people are moaning about this film I think people are really angry recently every film what has been out recently getting awful reviews everybody must be on their periods or summit
Mar 22, 2013Putting into mind that its fiction based on could be reality, than you can consider it as the first valid action flick this summer and could be one of the best this year. Gerard butler makes his comeback in his favorite genre as a serious warrior type image. all the rest played around him but played well.
Mar 22, 2013The film was a lot of fun. If you really don't over-think the movie, you're going to enjoy it. Much better than "Red Dawn". I would say if you enjoyed the movie "Salt", you'll enjoy this one.
Mar 27, 2013
Mar 30, 2013The movie could have been a little bit happier and switched scenes more often. the movie wasn't too great but did have a lot of action and a good sense of humor in it
Apr 7, 2013I can't believe Hollywood became this pathetic weak story over done what a waste of 2 hours of the weekend this crew should be ashamed of them selves
May 21, 2013This movie brings up memories from the past(Die Hard 1...), it's an ok action picture with decent acting, but it doesn't have single original thing, plot little bit generic! Overall good time.
Apr 25, 2013Although it suffers from a slow buildup, I found the action quite good and overall it had a nice Die Hard feel to it. The story suffers from some clichés, however, and I felt it difficult to believe such an attack would be so easy but after a while I was hooked.
Apr 27, 2013A good action movie full of Gerard Butler's role is good I liked it and as always Starring Morgan Freeman doing another excellent Aaron Eckhart is not far behind as U.S. president
May 10, 2013Great acting. Great effects. Great story. Quality film. The story kept me watching, and i nevere got tired of it. Very exciting. Cant wait til it comes out on dvd!
Jun 9, 2013Very intense and very violent. Its a pretty good movie but it needs more story to it and a better plot. The action was very successful and the actors played good parts to the characters. Overall it was a good movie.
Nov 13, 2014
May 23, 2014
Dec 27, 2013This review contains spoilers, click expand to view.
Aug 22, 2013
Dec 2, 2013
Apr 4, 2014
Jan 8, 2014
Aug 1, 2013
Dec 28, 2014I'm looking at the 41 metacritic on this movie and I'm not seeing why the score is that low. This is basically the darker and grittier version of Whitehouse Down. It's a solid action movie, and because it's R they shout **** a lot and there's a ton of headshots. It's grand if you're just wanting an action feature.
Aug 25, 2013Action movies can be good when there is also a plot going on, but this movie completely fails at this. The flimsy story is a secondary attraction to the non sop gun shooting and explosions. It is incredibly boring to watch.
Aug 5, 2013
Jul 10, 2013Olympus Has Fallen is an effective action movie. It's humorous, the lead character is immensely likeable, and the action delivers. Lower your standards a little for this and you'll have a good time.
Aug 12, 2013
Oct 6, 2013Decent action and effects. Acting is okay. Plot is ludicrous and the way the Secret Service and the Capitol Police were portrayed were... unbelievable and ridiculously stupid. Some of the effects were very obviously fake but thankfully only some since most were done fairly well.
Sep 25, 2013A straightforward predictable action movie. Think of all the action cliches known to man, now throw them all together and restore Aaron Eckharts' face. You have Olympus Has Fallen. Not boring, but not exciting. Morgan Freeman and Aaron Eckhart do provide some relief from all the explosions and gunfights by giving good performances. But it's not enough to save the whole 2 hour movie
Jan 17, 2014Olympus Has Fallen is a perfect blend of annoying and violent. To even prompt basic enjoyment out of this flick you will need to suspend disbelief by a crane, forget anything you know about technology, and sit casually by as practically all good sense gets trampled. If you are ready to balance a whole lot of mediocre on the head of a pin without expecting a collapse, this movie is for you.
Aug 14, 2013
Oct 10, 2013Butler is a good actor but the plot makes suspension of disbelief impossible, the action has nothing special and the ending is very predictable. Prefer to watch the Die Hard trilogy again.
argonautis.eu -
Jul 5, 2013Good cast, really one of those action movies thats a "one man army" deal but then again it has good action scenes, pretty good concept idea, I didn't mind it all, the average action movie junkie would be enticed, and wet their whistle with pro America, pro government clichés. Americans would most likely dig this movie, I'm not American but i did enjoy it. definitely worth a watch.
Jul 5, 2013
Jul 5, 2013If your a action buff your enjoy it but if you want a serious movie don't waste your time watching it because your wont enjoy it. Cheesy plot decent action and typical over the top bs type action scenes.
The thrills and the effects are cheap, but this is in hard-driving, good-humoured command of its own silliness.
Part of the weirdness of this film lies in the fact that the tense North Korean situation in the real world gives it no realism or satirical edge, or prophetic authority of any kind.
Olympus Has Fallen is a disgusting piece of work, but it certainly hits its marks — it makes you sick with suspense.


text:
Board chooses firms to manage hospital trust fund
by Associated Press Published: September 5,2013
Tags: bank, banking, board of supervisors, Board of Trustees, county, county government, finance, financial institution, Harry Sanders, health, health care, hospital, Lowndes County, Lowndes County Reserve and Trust Fund, medical, medicine, Renasant Wealth Management, Stephens Capital Management, supervisor, trust fund, trustee, Wells Fargo Advisors
COLUMBUS — Two financial firms have been selected to manage Lowndes County's $30-million hospital trust fund. The Lowndes County Reserve and Trust Fund board of trustees voted unanimously Tuesday to select Stephens Capital Management and Renasant Wealth Management to manage and invest the money from the county's hospital sale. Twelve firms had initially offered proposals. […] [...]


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While you may only know them for their mountain bikes, Diamondback has been making huge strides in developing their road offering as well. The result of this push is the Podium series carbon fiber frame. The Podium frame is hand made using Diamondback's Advanced Monocoque Molding Process that ensures that each piece of carbon ply is laid precisely where it needs to be to provide exceptional stiffness and durability, without using excess material that will weigh the bike down. Diamondback makes their own carbon sheets in house from the latest MR60 and HR40 fibers produced by carbon fiber leader Mitsubishi Rayon Co. Ltd. and also the industry workhorse T700 fibers by Toray Industries Inc. due to their high tensile and modulus strength. This allows the engineers at Diamondback to have complete control of the quality of their materials and allows them to use less material in the frame, to keep weight low, without sacrificing stiffness or durability. The Podium frame uses the latest in cycling technology including a 1.5" tapered headtube that creates a stronger and stiffer front end and the Press-Fit BB30 bottom bracket standard that minimizes the overall weight of the bike while increasing the stiffness of the bottom bracket region. The Podium also features carbon fiber drop outs and internal cable routing for a clean, uncluttered finish that also improves aerodynamics.
Built up with Shimano's revolutionary Ultegra Di2 electronic group, the Podium 6 would be right at home amongst the pro peloton. With the flick of a button Ultegra Di2 lets you make perfect shifts every time, even under extreme load, something no mechanical drivetrain can boast. Battery life is estimated at minimum 1,250 miles per charge so you aren't limited and a handy LED power indicator near the handlebars lets you see your battery status so you know when to charge.
Frame | DBR AMMP Carbon Technology, Specific Modulous, Monocoque Competition Road Frame, internal cable routing, Carbon Drop outs, Taper headtube, Press-Fit 30 BB, Di2 Compatible |
Fork | DBR AMMP Competition Road Fork, CFT Continuous Fiber Technology, Carbon Drop outs, Taper Carbon steerer tube |
Headset | FSA No. 42, Sealed ACB |
Wheelset | Easton Aero, V1 hubs, Cartridge bearings, 20h front 24h rear |
Tires | Michelin Pro 3, 700x23c |
Brakes | Shimano Ultegra, Dual Pivot |
Shifters | Shimano Ultegra Di2, 10spd |
Front Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra Di2, Braze on |
Rear Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra Di2, 10spd |
Crankset | Shimano Ultegra, 53/39t |
Cassette | Shimano 105 5700, 11-25t, 10spd |
Chain | Shimano CN-5700, 10spd |
Handlebar | Easton EC70 Aero, 31.8mm |
Saddle | DBR Competition Road with NiCro Rails |
Seatpost | Diamondback 2014 AL, 3D forged, 27.2mm |
Stem | Diamondback 7075 AL, 3D forged, ±7°, 31.8mm |
Note: components are subject to change without notice.
Size | XS 50cm |
S 52cm |
M 54cm |
L 56cm |
XL 58cm |
XXL 60cm |
Top Tube Length | 515mm | 530mm | 545mm | 560mm | 575mm | 590mm |
Seat Tube Length | 470mm | 490mm | 510mm | 530mm | 550mm | 570mm |
Head Tube Length | 115mm | 135mm | 150mm | 165mm | 180mm | 205mm |
Head Angle | 72.0° | 72.3° | 72.8° | 73.0° | 73.0° | 73.0° |
Seat Angle | 75.2° | 74.0° | 73.3° | 73.0° | 73.0° | 72.5° |
Wheelbase | 967mm | 968mm | 975mm | 984mm | 998mm | 1009mm |
Chainstay Length | 405mm | |||||
BB Drop | 72.5mm | 72.5mm | 70.0mm | 70.0mm | 67.5mm | 67.5mm |
Fork Offset | 45mm | |||||
Stem Length | 80mm | 90mm | 100mm | 100mm | 110mm | 120mm |
Handlebar Width | 400mm | 400mm | 420mm | 420mm | 440mm | 440mm |
Crankarm Length | 165mm | 170mm | 172.5mm | 172.5mm | 175mm | 175mm |
Seatpost Length | 300mm | |||||
Stack | 518mm | 539mm | 552mm | 567mm | 579mm | 603mm |
Reach | 372mm | 376mm | 380mm | 387mm | 398mm | 402mm |
Standover Height | 729mm | 755mm | 766mm | 786mm | 802mm | 828mm |
by PowerReviewsPros
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Reviewed by 7 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-7
Best Uses
Comments about Diamondback Podium 6 Di2 Road Bike 2013:
Bought this as a secondary bike being such a good deal. Once you go Di2 you will never go back!
Best Uses
Comments about Diamondback Podium 6 Di2 Road Bike 2013:
Great bargain - seems like in past years the groupset itself almost cost as much as i paid for the full bike. I have absolutely no complaints - the ride is compliant and comfortable. tonight i'm going to try the inserts for the brakes to make the reach less. I'm hooked on the serfas seat i always use so don't fret the downgrade on the seat.
Best Uses
Comments about Diamondback Podium 6 Di2 Road Bike 2013:
Wanted the bike for the Di2 Shifter. I ride a geared bike in the summer months and this bike is fast. The Di2 is amazzzzzing! Stiff frame. I have the burka lounger setup now with the stem flipped for commuting almost 30 miles a day. Can't beat the price. I changed to tubeless tires and was ready to go.
Best Uses
Comments about Diamondback Podium 6 Di2 Road Bike 2013:
This is my 2nd bike purchase since I started cycling a 5 years ago, my previous bike was a Fuji, partial carbon with decent components; however it was too small for me and I needed to take the next step up. This bike was recommended to me by a friend who is quite knowledgeable about the sport. He was very confident that this would be a good fit for me and that the value of what I was going to get would be to my advantage. I did hesitate because I couldn't "try it" before buying it, yet I decided that I didn't want to pass this opportunity up. I am so glad that I bought the bike! Once It was together and I was able to ride it, I knew that it was the right bike for me. It was just what I was looking for, the Di2 is absolutely amazing! I had problems with my mechanical Shimano Ultegra shifting because my hands are small and it took way too much effort to shift. Now I barely have to tap to change gears AND I can do all of that while climbing or descending. The Di2 is smooth, reliable and just incredible! The frame looks really great, the colors are sleek and unique, I personally prefer to have a non-flashy color combo. I like it when people take that second look and say to themselves " what kind of bike IS that?" !
I have taken the bike out for a few rides and done some climbing, decided to change the cassette and will be changing the crankset because I prefer to have more climbing ability. The handlebars are not particularly my preferred shape and angle, I have a feeling that I will be changing that in the future as well. I put my previous seat on because I knew the one it came with was not going to work for me. Over the last few weeks I have just thoroughly enjoyed this bike and have noticed that it really was the best bike for the money spent, which makes me realize that a little trust can go a long way.
I can't wait to see where this bike takes me in the future, but I know it will all be worth every penny spent!!
Best Uses
Comments about Diamondback Podium 6 Di2 Road Bike 2013:
This is without a doubt one of the best and amazing bikes I have ever own I'm glad I have one the number 1 purchase of the year!!!
Best Uses
Comments about Diamondback Podium 6 Di2 Road Bike 2013:
Carbon frame holds it own against bikes costing twice as much. Di2 system is good enough for the pros. Generally worth the slight additional weight.
Best Uses
Comments about Diamondback Podium 6 Di2 Road Bike 2013:
This bike kicks much booty. You should totally but one now.
Displaying reviews 1-7
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Smart chicks, about 100 strong, commandeered the Southern Maryland Higher Education Center last weekend. Some were 4 feet tall, wearing braces, pink sneakers, ponytails or afro puffs. Others wore business suits, even a Navy uniform embroidered with an admiral's star.
The message of the day, from elders to youth — dream. Work hard. Stay confident and competitive.
The Society of Women Engineers hosted St. Mary's County's first Wow! That's Engineering! event Saturday. Some of the most innovative minds in the county — teachers, engineers who test aircraft and women who lead teams of hundreds to do the same — helped some of the region's brightest girls conduct experiments and consider careers in science, math, engineering and technology.
"It's extremely important to see there are successful women who have moved up through the ranks," said Rear Adm. CJ Jaynes, who serves as both commander of the Navy's Fleet Readiness Centers and as assistant commander of logistics at NAVAIR.
Jaynes, a former math teacher and basketball coach, watched with an expression somewhere between pride and happiness as dozens of girls solved problems and cheered each other on.
She also served as a real-life example of what's possible for young women. Jaynes made history when she was promoted from captain earlier this year, becoming NAVAIR's first female admiral.
"Paths have already been laid," Jaynes said. If young women know that, "that's one less barrier they have to break down."
Catherine Vanecko, 13, from Chesapeake Public Charter School, managed to build a watercraft that, powered by a rubber band, sputtered across an inflatable pool. She also worked on a team that made sense of a pile of black wires, red wires, foil, purple masking tape and a cardboard box. The team members examined each piece, confered and deliberated, then fashioned it all into a contraption that propelled a golf ball several feet.
"I'd like to be an engineer and make hovercraft," she said. Instead of worrying about rush-hour traffic, travelers could float above the congestion, zipping at various altitudes to their destinations. Think Jetsons incarnate.
Her schoolmate, Claire Stevens, 12, also participated in experiments and listened to inspirational speakers. Stevens said she likes science "sometimes." But, she's also into language arts and physical education. She can outwit and outshoot boys on the court, both girls agreed. "I feel like I have to be better than them," Stevens said. "Especially in basketball."
She's thinking of becoming an architect. Or, a clothing designer. Or a model. "There's a lot I'd like to do."
And, that's what Leslie Taylor, a member of the Senior Executive Service at NAVAIR, wants the girls to know. Not everyone is slated for, or interested in, careers in technology. But everyone can set lofty goals and reach them.
Taylor is among the government's top, and most respected leaders. "Young women can do whatever they want," Taylor said. "They do not have to be limited."


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Style #: Allegra-BR, Allegra-B, Allegra-BPM
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Pick up the pace in the up-to-the-minute Spring Step Allegra boot. This women's casual ankle bootie features a distinctive look to go with its supple, contrast-texture leather upper. A Z-strap hook-and-loop closure lets you easily adjust for a custom fit. Inside, a breathable textile lining and removable, washable cushioned insole keep feet comfortable. The Spring Step Allegra ankle boot is finished with a just-right wedge heel and traction polyurethane sole that won't slow you down.
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Results 1 to 5 of 6
Thread: Names similar to these...
May 19th, 2013 12:56 PM #1Senior Member
- Join Date
- Mar 2013
- Location
- Midwest U.S.
- Posts
- 494
Names similar to these...
Hi! So my boys list has gotten pretty confusing lately. I'm just not really sure what I like anymore! I have always liked pretty popular names, but now I'm not sure I will want my son to be the fifth William in his class! Can you help me out? I would like alternatives to these names that are less popular (Or if you don't think theyre too popular, let me know that too!). All suggestions are appreciated!!
Alexander (nn Xander, not Alex)
Thanks!Current Favorites:
{ Adelyn :: Elisabeth "Elise" Kate :: Cassandra "Cassie" Vivienne :: Charlotte "Charlie" Lorraine :: Adelina :: Josephine "Josie" }
{ Everett Cole :: Adam Carson :: Camden Bennett :: Alexander "Xander" Mason :: Aidan Blake :: William "Liam" Anthony }
May 19th, 2013 01:02 PM #3Senior Member
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Posts
- 163
William - George, Charles, Henry
Anthony - Andrew, Anton
Camden - Cameron, Chelsea
Cade - Wade, Brady
Adam - Luke, Jake, Scott
Bennett - Benjamin, Reuben, Benson, Benedict
Carson - Carter, Carl
Alexander (nn Xander, not Alex) - Xavier
Aidan - Adrian, Hayden
Mason - Jason
I've never met a Camden, but it reminds me of Camden Market which I wouldn't want a son to be named after. I've never met a Cade either, though I've met a Caden/Kayden (I don't know the spelling).My two bundles of love, Dominic Joseph and Tabitha Faye
May 19th, 2013 01:28 PM #5Senior Member
- Join Date
- Apr 2012
- Posts
- 1,707
William - Oh, but it's so lovely! Hmmm... James, Joseph, Arthur, Oscar, Jude, Thomas, Peter, David
Anthony - Michael, Andrew, Matthew, Mark, Timothy, Richard, George
Camden - Landon, Logan, Cameron, Lachlan, Angus
Cade - Cole, Corey, Troy, Rhett, Zack, Joel, Jay
Adam - Owen, Rhys, Ryan, Toby, Luca, Jack, Seth, Evan, Lewis
Bennett - Theodore, Oliver, Vaughn, Elliott, Forrest
Carson - Morgan, Jackson, Rowan, Riley, Bailey, Harrison, Jenson
Alexander - Zane, Xavier, Christopher, Frederick, Dominic, Patrick
Aidan - Cormac, Rory, Finlay, Connor, Callum, Liam
Mason - Archer, Sawyer, Noah, Hunter, Dylan, Kai
May 20th, 2013 02:25 AM #7
William- Thomas, Frederick, Franklin, Theodore, Marshall, Mitchell, Marcus, Philip, Patrick, Christian, Calvin, Lewis, Lawrence, Wallace, Walter, Edward, Hugh, Heath, Simon
Anthony- Anders, Anderson, Anton, Malachy, Micah, Garrett, Graham, Grant, Allen
Camden- Devin, Declan, Keegan, Keaton, Killian, Kenyon, Soren, Sterling, Truman, Caspian, Easton
Cade- Kai, Keane, Kian, Keegan, Cole, Clark, Kirk, Kent, Clay, Clint, Corbin, Callum, Cavan, Rhys, Reid, Ross, Tate, Dean,
Adam- Judah, Jericho, Jasper, Caspar, Mark, Samuel, Peter, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Samson, Elias,
Bennett- Eben, Benson, Benton, Sebastian, Wilder, Whitman, Emerson, Edison,
Carson- Macsen
Alexander (nn Xander, not Alex)- Alec, Aeron, Arran, Ezra, Cyrus, Darius, Silas
Aidan- Malcolm, Tierney, Conall, Cormac, Tiernan, Rory, Rowan, Brady, Brody,
Mason- Spencer, Cooper, Tanner, Tucker, Archer, Bridger, Hudson, Roman, Nolan, Jensen, Judson, Damien, Quentin, Talon, StantonINTP Anthropologist Living in the centre of China, married to a Persian, and just enjoying a completely unpredictable life
Emiliana Pari 郑煜曈 '14
Raphael Kaveh
Currently stuck on girls
Names I love, but cannot use:
Soren Pasha, Caspian Bardia, Caspar Siavash, Elias Rostam, Simon Kasra
Valentina Parvaneh, Rosalind Tala, Viola Katayoun
May 20th, 2013 04:25 PM #9Senior Member
- Join Date
- Mar 2013
- Location
- Midwest U.S.
- Posts
- 494
Thanks! I am seeing lots of names that are already on my list that I'm now reconsidering their placement below the top 10 (Ezra, Hudson, Mark, Edison, Landon, Cole, Ryan, Elliott, Sawyer, Micah, Luke, and Andrew). Also some of my guilty pleasure names (Forrest, Hudson, Caspar, Caspian).
Names that I like, but wont work:
Garrett - teacher I had (yes, it is a conflict)
Hudson - teacher I had (same)
Jasper - LOVE this, but it's a town not far from where I live
Zack - ex boyfriend...
oh, and I LOVE Toby! thanks for that one!Current Favorites:
{ Adelyn :: Elisabeth "Elise" Kate :: Cassandra "Cassie" Vivienne :: Charlotte "Charlie" Lorraine :: Adelina :: Josephine "Josie" }
{ Everett Cole :: Adam Carson :: Camden Bennett :: Alexander "Xander" Mason :: Aidan Blake :: William "Liam" Anthony }


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M.c.AlabamaGood, But Some ProblemsThis had given good initial coverage and seems to have more in the can than higher-priced competitors. It does, however, rub off on pillowcases, hands, etc. Also had a problem with the nozzle clogging, and parts of my scalp I cant get the stuff off!posted Jan 7, 2005Link to this post
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No matter the season, food safety should always be on the menu. And that means using a thermometer to judge when meat and poultry are fully cooked. But remembering the appropriate meat cooking temperature can be challenging. Well, that just got a bit easier.
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Attica Locke is a producer of the hit TV series Empire. That's her day job. She's also a crime novelist.
KJZZ News
Phoenix land company Vermaland bought 4000 acres near Casa Grande this
This map graphic highlights in yellow the land proposed for the La Osa Ranch project in Pinal County. (Map courtesy of Land Advisors Organization)
A sign of continued growth in the housing market, their master plan calls
for residential lots, parks and commercial space.
August 15, 2013
Some Arizona community groups are getting $2 million to sign up people for health care expansion next year. The grants will be used to hire staff to add patients to the state's Medicaid system and help others purchase insurance under the new federal health care act.
August 15, 2013
Arizona is no longer among the top ten states with the highest number of foreclosure starts, according to housing data firm RealtyTrac -- for the first time since February 2007. The state saw 3,300 new foreclosure filings in July, a slight increase from the previous month but a 60 percent decrease since last year.
August 15, 2013
The United States has formally requested the rearrest of Mexican drug lord Raphael Caro Quintero. He was unexpectedly freed from a Mexican prison last week. He had served 28 years for the 1985 kidnapping, torture and murder of Drug Enforcement Administration agent Enrique Camarena.
August 15, 2013
Hill Top Motel is getting a renovation. It was recently awarded Arizona's only
National Park Service Route 66 grant. Hill Top Motel has been around since the 1950s and is now undergoing a renovation.
August 15, 2013
Northern Arizona University will offer its students
a new type of transcript for the upcoming fall semester.
Northern Arizona University's campus at South Mountain Community College. (Photo by Julie Levin-KJZZ)
NAU wants to make its students more competitive in
the job market, and its new competency report may do that.
August 14, 2013
There is more proof the region's stubborn drought is affecting water supplies in Arizona and other western states. A new federal report predicts water levels in Colorado River reservoirs will drop significantly over the next few years.
August 14, 2013
Tuesday's announcement that the U.S. Department of Justice and several attorneys general including Arizona's Tom Horne were suing to block the proposed merger between American Airlines and Tempe-based US Airways was a huge surprise to most observers.
August 14, 2013
The latest downsizing by the Gannett Corporation earlier
this month included 29 people being fired by The Arizona Republic. Several of those laid off were specifically
involved as editors of the newspaper's community opinion pages.
August 14, 2013
From statehood in 1912 until 2000, Arizona's Legislature was in charge of drawing legislative and congressional districts, but in the 2000 election, apparently in a bid to lessen the influence of politics on the process, voters passed Proposition 106, which created the five-member Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission.
August 14, 2013
Pat Mulroy, the head of the Southern Nevada Water Authority, kicked off a tidal wave of buzz when she told the Las Vegas Review-Journal that federal disaster aid may be needed to deal with the effect the western drought is having on the Colorado River.
August 14, 2013
Arizona could be the new home a large astronomy project. Cherenkov Telescope
Array 40 telescopes could generate more than $100 million for the area. Potential
sites for the array of 40 telescopes include Mexico and the Spanish Canary
Islands, but the big news in Arizona is that spots around Seligman and Meteor
Crater are also in the running.
August 14, 2013
The taco-- the ultimate Mexican comfort food has become a staple in American cuisine and reigns supreme as a popular meal in many different forms and flavors. In this delicious, sound-rich summer series, Fronteras: The Changing America Desk reporters investigate the transformation of the taco in the Southwest-- from cheap street eats to gourmet delights, from a Mexican mainstay to an All-American breakfast classic.
August 14, 2013
The top prosecutor in Apache County
is warning a newly-appointed legislator that he needs to prove his residency or
lose his seat.
When State Senator Jack Jackson, Jr. resigned to take a job in Washington, D.
August 14, 2013
The Maricopa County Attorney is criticizing United States
Attorney General Eric Holder's prison reform proposal. Bill Montgomery says he
agrees with flexibility in sentencing, but not outside of legislative channels.
August 14, 2013
State University
W.P. Carey
School Economics
Professor Robert Mittelstaedt is criticizing Arizona Attorney General Tom
Horne's decision to join the United States Department of Justice in stopping
the merger of Tempe-based US Airways and American Airlines.
August 14, 2013
While most of the nation experiences a cool down this week,
it's unusually hot and dry for central Arizona
and will remain that way through the weekend. But, Mark O'Malley with the National
Weather Service says the hot weather does not signal an end to the monsoon
August 14, 2013


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Excerpted from The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith. Copyright © 2002 by Alexander McCall Smith. Excerpted by permission of Anchor, a division of Random House LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
Alexander McCall Smith is the author of the beloved, bestselling No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, the Isabel Dalhousie series, the Portuguese Irregular Verbs series, the 44 Scotland Street series, and the Corduroy Mansions series. He is also the author of numerous children's books. He is professor emeritus of medical law at the University of Edinburgh and has served with many national and international organizations concerned with bioethics. He was born in what is now known as Zimbabwe and taught law at the University of Botswana. He lives in Scotland.
Visit his website at www.alexandermccallsmith.com.
Q: You have written more than fifty books (from specialist titles such as FORENSIC ASPECTS OF SLEEP to children's books, including THE PERFECT HAMBURGER). Was THE NO. 1 LADIES' DETECTIVE AGENCY your first attempt at writing a mystery?
A: The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency is my first foray into this territory, although I do not think of it as a mystery. I like to think of it as a novel about a woman who happens to be a private detective. Mind you, I suppose that makes it a mystery ... of a sort.
Q: Your detective, Precious Ramotswe, is a wonderfully unique character—a Botswana woman of traditional build who decides to become a professional private detective. Is Precious based on someone that you knew when you lived in Botswana or is she a creation of your imagination?
A: There is no particular person upon whom Precious Ramotswe is based, but there is an incident. Years ago I was in Botswana, staying with friends in a small town called Mochudi. A woman in the town wished to give my friends a chicken to celebrate Botswana National Day. I watched as this woman—traditionally built, like Mma Ramotswe—chased the chicken round the yard and eventually caught it. She made a clucking noise as she ran. The chicken looked miserable. She looked very cheerful. At that moment I thought that I might write a book about a cheerful woman of traditional build.
Q: Did you know immediately that the story of Mma Ramotswe would be the basis for an entire series of novels?
A: No, I did not. What happened is that I became so fond of the character that I could not let her go. To leave her where she was at the end of the first novel would have been rather like getting up and leaving the room in the middle of a conversation—rather rude.
Q: It is rare for an author to explore the evolution from amateur sleuth to professional detective, but one of the most appealing aspects of Precious's character is that she doesn't always know what she's doing. In TEARS OF THE GIRAFFE (the sequel to THE NO. 1 LADIES' DETECTIVE AGENCY), she even sends away for an instructional manual, Principles of Private Detection. What interests you about "education of the detective"?
A: Mma Ramotswe sets up her agency without any relevant experience. However, she does have intuition—in abundance—and that is very much more important than anything she could learn from a book. In fact, the passages she cites from The Principles of Private Detection are ultimately not particularly helpful to her, the point being that a person without any training can achieve great things if he or she has natural intelligence and ability. In many African countries, including Botswana, people have great respect for books and for the learning they contain. I would hope to point out that this should not obscure the importance of real, practical wisdom.
Q: Although Mma Ramotswe is confronted by greed, lust, dishonesty, and murderous intent, these novels are rather optimistic and often humorous in tone. How do you maintain this rather delicate balance?
A: I think that many people living in Africa—in circumstances which are sometimes quite difficult—maintain that balance themselves, and with great dignity. I think that I merely reflect what is there in those fine people.
Q: In the Precious Ramotswe novels, Botswana emerges as a vivid character and a wonderful place to live. What do you hope that American readers will discover about Africa while reading these novels?
A: I very much hope that American readers will get a glimpse of the remarkable qualities of Botswana. It is a very special country and I think that it particularly chimes with many of the values which Americans feel very strongly about—respect for the rule of law and for individual freedom. I hope that readers will also see in these portrayals of Botswana some of the great traditional virtues in Africa—in particular, courtesy and a striking natural dignity.
Q: How have these books been received in Botswana? What about other parts of Africa?
A: I was recently in Botswana and I was delighted to find that people there liked the books. I was worried that they might have reservations about an outsider writing about their society. No. They appear to like the way in which their world is portrayed. I believe that they recognize themselves in them.
Q: You were born in what is now known as Zimbabwe and you have also lived in Botswana, the United States, and Edinburgh. In what ways have your international travels informed your writing?
A: The fact that I have been all over the world means that I tend to use a variety of locations for my work. I think it is important for a writer to see other societies and attempt to understand them. Of course, you have to be careful. It is easy to get things wrong. One might put palm trees in the wrong place, for example in New York.
Q: Do you see the Precious Ramotswe books within the context of the tradition of the classic African novel of writers like Isak Dinesen and Chinua Achebe? Or do you see them as a revamping of the mystery genre?
A: I think that these books might be difficult to put into any particular tradition. They are obviously about Africa, but they are very different from the works you mention. Some people say that they remind them of the novels of that great Indian writer R.K. Narayan, which is very flattering, but I suppose I can see the similarities in the world which his and my books portray.
Q: Anthony Minghella, who has directed The English Patient and The Talented Mr. Ripley recently optioned THE NO. 1 LADIES' DETECTIVE AGENCY to be a major motion picture. Will you be involved in the production in any way?
A: I hope that this goes ahead as planned. They have shown me a script, which I read with interest. They said that I could come and see the shooting, one of these days. I shall stand well back and I suspect that I shall say nothing.
Q: The Precious Ramotswe books have a devoted following. Have you ever had the opportunity to meet with the Mma Ramotswe fan club that is based in New York? What question are you most frequently asked by your fans?
A: There seem to be many fans of the books in the U.S.A. I receive wonderfully warm letters from American readers, which I greatly enjoy. As far as New York is concerned, there is a splendid group of readers whom I met when I was last there. They love Mma Ramotswe and she would love them too. They, like many other readers, ask me when Mma Ramotswe and Mr J.L.B. Matekoni will eventually get married. I must think about that.
Q: Next spring, Pantheon Books will publish the fourth in the series of the Precious Ramotswe novels. Will there be other books in the series as well?
A: I hope so. I am writing the fifth at the moment and I am thinking of the sixth.
Q: In addition to writing novels, you are also a professor of medical law at Edinburgh University, and as if that wasn't enough to keep you busy, you also conduct a symphony. How do you find the time to do it all?
A: I struggle to find the time to do things. I have many commitments, but writing these books is such a pleasure for me that I shall always find the time, somehow. I don't conduct a symphony—I play in a distinctly amateur orchestra, of which I am the co-founder. I play the bassoon, but not the entire instrument, as I dislike the very high notes and stop at the high D, which I think is quite high enough. This orchestra is pretty awful, and that is why it bears the name The Really Terrible Orchestra. This brings it a wide and enthusiastic following. Recently we had a request from an American amateur orchestra to use our name. We said of course. So somewhere in the U.S. there is a bad amateur orchestra called The Really Terrible Orchestra. They will go far, perhaps.
What's What and Who's Who in THE NO. 1 LADIES' DETECTIVE AGENCY
Alexander McCall Smith's Guide to the World of The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency
First and foremost, Mma Ramotswe:
Mma is the term used to address a woman, and may be placed before her name. It is pronounced "ma" (with a long a)
Rra is the rough equivalent of "mister". It is pronounced "rar", but with a slight rolling of the second r.
Mma Ramotswe is the daughter of the late Obed Ramotswe. African English makes frequent use of the word late in this context. People say: "My father is late" rather than use more brutal expressions. At one point Mma Ramotswe refers to a "late dog" which had been run over by a steamroller. This shows great delicacy.
Mr J.L.B. Matekoni always uses his initials. Why this formality? People in Botswana can be fairly formal with one another. In Mr J.L.B. Matekoni's case, that is what he has always been called and nobody has ever found out what the initials stand for. The L is, in fact, Livingstone.
Sir Seretse Khama is referred to from time to time. Mma Ramotswe is a great admirer of his and feels proud of the first President of Botswana. Sir Seretse was a great man, who set the moral tone of the new republic.
Dr Moffat appears from time to time, together with his wife, Fiona. They are real people who currently live in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana. Howard Moffat, a doctor, is a direct descendant of Robert Moffat, the Scottish missionary who first rendered the Setswana language in written form. Robert Moffat's daughter married David Livingstone.
Setswana, the language spoken in most of Botswana. Most people speak English too and newspapers, for example, will be in both languages.
Bush tea is very important to Mma Ramotswe and her assistant, Mma Makutsi. It is a reddish tea, caffeine-free, which is also known as rooibos (red bush tea). It is an acquired taste, and may be drunk with honey, in which case it is called honeybush tea.
Masarwa. This term is commonly used to refer to the San people (previously called Bushmen) who inhabited the Kalahari and who have gradually moved away from their hunter-gatherer life.
The Kalahari is a semi-desert which occupies the central and western parts of Botswana. It supports light vegetation, but very few people.
The Orphan Farm exists, though not under that name. The orphans live in small houses presided over by a housemother. There is a matron (called, in the books, Mma Potokwani) and a man who is officially employed as a father figure, surely one of the more unusual job titles. In the past, the matron's husband occupied that job.
The Bishop. Mma Ramotswe admires the Bishop. He is in charge of the Anglican Cathedral, which is directly opposite the Princess Marina Hospital. The last occupant of this office was the Bishop Walter Makhulu, who has recently handed over to Bishop Theophilus.
Mafikeng (formerly Mafeking) lies to the south, outside the borders of Botswana. Mma Ramotswe previously shopped there, but now that Gaborone has better shops she is content to do all her shopping there.
Zebra Drive. This is where Mma Ramotswe has her house. There is a Zebra Way in Gaborone. Mma Ramotswe's house is the last house on the left before the Zebra Way turns the corner.
Tlokweng Road, the road on which Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors sits, goes to Tlokweng, some five or six miles outside Gaborone. The Francistown Road goes to Francistown, in the North, and the Lobatse Road goes to Lobatse. To get to Molepolole, one should take the Molepolole Road.
The Village is the old part of the Gaborone. Mr J.L.B. Matekoni lives on the edge of the Village, near the old Botswana Defence Force Club.
Acacia trees cover the land. They have light greyish-greenish leaves and harbour birds such as the Go-Away Bird with its famous cry, or doves.
Cattle are very important. They are everywhere. A person's prosperity will usually be measured by the number of cattle he or she has.
1. Unlike in most other mysteries, in The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency Mma Ramotswe solves a number of small crimes, rather than a single major one. How does this affect the narrative pacing of the novel? What other unique features distinguish The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency from the conventional mystery novel?
2. What makes Precious Ramotswe such a charming protagonist? What kind of woman is she? How is she different from the usual detective? Why does she feel "called" to help her fellow Africans "solve the mysteries of their lives" [p. 4]?
3. What is surprising about the nature of the cases Mma Ramotswe is hired to solve? By what means does Alexander McCall Smith sustain the reader's interest, in the absence of the kind of tension, violence, and suspense that drive most mysteries?
4. Mma Ramotswe's first client, Happy Bapetsi, is worried that the man who claims to be her father is a fraud taking advantage of her generosity. "All he does," she says, "is sit in his chair outside the front door and tell me what to do for him next." To which Mma Ramotswe replies, "Many men are like that" [p. 10]. What is Mma Ramotswe's view of men generally? How do men behave in the novel?
5. Why does Mma Ramotswe feel it is so important to include her father's life story in the novel? What does Obed Ramotswe's life reveal about the history of Africa and of South Africa? What does it reveal about the nature and cost of working in the mines in South Africa?
6. Mma Ramotswe purchases a manual on how to be a detective. It advises one to pay attention to hunches. "Hunches are another form of knowledge" [p. 79]. How does intuition help Mma Ramotswe solve her cases?
7. When Mma Ramotswe decides to start a detective agency, a lawyer tells her "It's easy to lose money in business, especially when you don't know anything about what you're doing. . . . And anyway, can women be detectives?" To which Mma Ramotswe answers, "Women are the ones who know what's going on. They are the ones with eyes. Have you not read Agatha Christie?" [p. 61]. Is she right in suggesting women are more perceptive than men? Where in the novel do we see Mma Ramotswe's own extraordinary powers of observation? How does she comically undercut the lawyer's arrogance in this scene?
8. As Mma Ramotswe wonders if Mma Malatsi was somehow involved in her husband's death and whether wanting someone dead made one a murderer in God's eyes, she thinks to herself: "It was time to take the pumpkin out of the pot and eat it. In the final analysis, that was what solved these big problems of life. You could think and think and get nowhere, but you still had to eat your pumpkin. That brought you down to earth. That gave you a reason for going on. Pumpkin" [p. 85]. What philosophy of life is Mma Ramotswe articulating here? Why do the ongoing daily events of life give her this sense of peace and stability?
9. Why does Mma Ramotswe marry Note? Why does this act seem so out of character for her? In what ways does her love for an attractive and physically abusive man make her a deeper and more complicated character? How does her marriage to Note change her?
10. Mma Ramotswe imagines retiring back in Mochudi, buying some land with her cousins, growing melons, and living life in such a way that "every morning she could sit in front of her house and sniff at the wood-smoke and look forward to spending the day talking with her friends. How sorry she felt for white people, who couldn't do any of this, and who were always dashing around and worrying themselves over things that were going to happen anyway. What use was it having all that money if you could never sit still or just watch your cattle eating grass? None, in her view; none at all" [p. 162]. Is Mma Ramotswe's critique of white people on the mark or is she stereotyping? What makes her sense of what is important, and what brings happiness, so refreshing? What other differences between black and white cultures does the novel make apparent?
11. Mma Ramotswe does not want Africa to change, to become thoroughly modern: "She did not want her people to become like everybody else, soulless, selfish, forgetful of what it means to be an African, or, worse still, ashamed of Africa" [p. 215]. But what aspects of traditional African culture trouble her? How does she regard the traditional African attitude toward women, marriage, family duty, and witchcraft? Is there a contradiction in her relationship to "old" Africa?
12. How surprising is Mme Ramotswe's response to Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni's marriage proposal? How appropriate is the ending of the novel?
13. Alexander McCall Smith has both taught and written about criminal law. In what ways does in The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency draw upon this knowledge? How are lawyers and the police characterized in the novel?
14. Is in The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency a feminist novel? Does the fact that its author is a man complicate such a reading? How well does Alexander McCall Smith represent a woman's character and consciousness in Mma Ramotswe?
15. Alexander McCall Smith's Precious Ramotswe books have been praised for their combination of apparent simplicity with a high degree of sophistication. In what ways does in The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency have the appeal of simple storytelling? In what ways is it sophisticated? What does it suggest about the larger issues of how to live one's life, how to behave in society, how to be happy?