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Sweet dreams in Derby!
BEST WESTERN The Stuart Hotel, in delightful Derby, is a super city centre venue, with 100 bedrooms, a laid-back Liquid Bar and an exceptional XS Restaurant! All bedrooms are decorated in a modern design with flat screen TV's and a wide choice of free view channels, so when you're not being entertained by our wonderful staff you'll have plenty to watch in your room! As for location, location, location, we're near points of interest, family attractions and both road & rail links so getting here is easy even if leaving can be difficult!
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Dan McDoogle
Fill up on a full Continental buffet selection that includes fruit, meats and cheese, yoghurts, cereals, pastries and croissants, along with a full English breakfast cooked to order and served with toast and a choice of tea and coffee.And after a day of activities, modern British Cuisine will be here to welcome you home, with choices from our A La Carte Menu or Daily Specials!
Hotel bar open from 10am, serving a selection of bar meals
Getting there.
Sat nav users: type DE1 2QR
Send to Tom Tom
Nearest motorway: M1, J28, 8.00 miles
Nearest train station:
Derby, 0.20 miles
Nearest airport: East Midlands, 15.00 miles
Free parking on site (80 spaces)
On site disabled parking (6 spaces)
119 London Road
What's nearby?
Pride Park (I Pro Stadium) (1.5 miles)
Alton Towers (25 miles)
Chatsworth House (27 miles)
Royal Crown Derby (0.2 miles)
Calke Abbey (11 miles)
Westfield Shopping Centre (0.1 miles)
Westfield Shopping centre (0.1 miles)
East Midlands Designer Outlet (18 miles)
The superb suite at BEST WESTERN The Stuart Hotel is the perfect venue for you to hold a meeting, conference or function. We cater for all sizes of gatherings, from exhibitions, interviews, training courses and conferences for up to 180 delegates. With its own separate entrance, full bar and Wi-Fi access, the conference rooms are ideal for any networking need large or small.
Available room set ups
BanquetBoardroomClassroomTheatreU shape
The Suite
The Suite conference room can cater for all sizes of meetings, exhibitions, interviews, training courses and conferences for up to 180 delegates. It has it's own separate entrance, full bar and Wireless Broadband Internet Access, and can accommodate both small and large conferences and meetings.
01/01/0001 ,
At the last minute we decided to have a meal at The Stuart Hotel and what a lovely meal it was......We had the best Steak ever which was cooked by the lovely Suni. The staff were very friendly which made our meal even more enjoyable. would definitely go again. less
Me and my mom stayed here for a shopping weekend away. This hotel is perfect location to the City centre and the main shopping centre. The hotel is clean and very relaxed. We had no problems here and will have no problems with staying here again. less
What a dump ......
1) two room changes just to get working wifi,
2) water pressure in the shower less than that of an elderly deerhound,
3) "excellent soundproofing" what nonsense it would help if the windows actually closed,
4) is it beyond the wit of man to make the washbasin plug work ?
5) continually creaking pipes
And finally ......
6) you know the room wasn't hoovered when you get stabbed in the foot by someone else's toenail clipping !
Best Western - more like a spaghetti western The Bad And The Ugly ( because there was nothing good ) less
Stayed the night in this hotel as a treat from a friend, room itself ok, clean and tidy all you need for a nights cheap stay
went to the bar for a drink but after a long wait had to go to reception to be served only for them to get the barmaid from the cellar!
Breakfast was expensive for what it was the only good thing was the waitress on duty.
when I got home I realised I had left my phone charger there when I called to ask about it, I was told to call back the next day and speak to housekeeping! Obviously unable to take a message and call me back.
won't be coming back im sorry to say less
We booked a night at The Stuart as we were visiting friends. Very reasonably priced and after reading other reviews wasn't expecting to much.
On arrival we were welcomed by a very friendly receptionist, who was polite, helpful, checked us in quickly & gave us directions to our room.
Our room was on the first floor to the rear of the building. It was a large spacious room, with a lovely large bed. Clean & well presented. The bathroom was a good sized ensuite. Bath, shower toilet & sink. The drain on the sink was a little slow, but nothing drastic.
In the night my 10 yr old son was very sick, in the bed & bathroom. I phoned reception an a very helpful young man Aaron answered. I explained the problem & he explained the cupboards are all locked overnight, but he'd see what he could find to help us.
10-15 mins later he arrived at our door with new bedding and extra towels. He offered to help clear up, but I was happy to do that. I was just very grateful so we could clear up & return to bed to try and get some more sleep.
We didn't eat or drink but both areas looked very nice.
All in all a very nice stay, made better by the staffs helpfulness.
Thank you less


text:
We care about you and your needs and want to hear from you! Below you will find contact information for our church and corresponding staff members. If you have a comment or suggestion about the site, please contact Emily McBride.
For US mail or Walk-Ins:
First Presbyterian Church of Athens
185 East Hancock Avenue
Athens, GA 30601
For General Questions:
email the Front Desk.
Contact the Staff:
Senior Pastor, Glenn Doak
Associate Pastor, Carol Strickland
Parish Associate, John Kipp
Parish Associate, Bob Googe
Director of Music, Dr. John Coble
Director of Christian Education, Misse Mallino
Director of Youth Ministries, Kim Ness
Weekday School Director, Elaine Johnson
Church Administrator, Roger Burbage
Receptionist, Jessica Beaver
Communications Specialist, Emily McBride
Administrative Assistant, Lucy Bell
Accounting Assistant, Laura McHugh
Weekday School Admin Ass't, Marie Evans
For Prayer Requests:
email the Front Desk.
For Facility Requests:
download this form.
Office Phone: 706-543-4338
Office Fax: 706-548-8953
Weekday School: 706-549-8677 or 706-206-8180

subset: commoncrawl


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Renewable energy in Ethiopia
Ethiopia generates most of its electricity from renewable energy, mainly hydropower on the Blue Nile. In 2011, over 96% of Ethiopia's electricity was from hydropower.[1] The country began a large program to expand electricity supply in the 2010s from 2,000 MW to 10,000 MW. This was to be done mainly with renewable sources. Wind and geothermal were included to offset seasonal differences in water levels. Ethiopia plans to export electricity to neighboring countries but transmission lines will need to be upgraded and expanded.
Most of the energy needs of Ethiopia are filled by biofuels for cooking, heating, and off-grid lighting. Petroleum, including gasoline, diesel and kerosene supply less than 7% of the countries energy supply.[1] Solar photovoltaics is being promoted to replace fuel-based lighting and off-grid electrical supply with a solar panel assembly plant opening in Addis Ababa in early 2013. The majority of the Ethiopia's population live in rural areas and very few have access to electricity.
Ethiopia is planning for a carbon-neutral status by 2025.[2]
Dams built in Ethiopia provided over 1,500 MW of capacity by 2010. The four largest dams were built between 2004-2010.
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam will be the largest hydropower dam in Africa and among the largest in the world. When completed it will be able to generate 6,000 MW, almost triple Ethiopia's entire national capacity.
Egypt has expressed concerns that their water rights are being violated by these upstream dams but Ethiopia has no water treaty with Egypt.
Wind power[edit]
Ethiopia plans 800 MW of wind power. As the dry season is also the windy season, wind power is a good complement to hydropower. The first wind installation in the country was the 51 MW Adama I wind farm, built in 2011. The 120 MW Ashegoda Wind Farm opened in October 2013 and was the largest wind farm in Africa.[3]
Solar photovoltaics are being promoted to replace fuel-based lighting and off-grid electrical needs. Ethiopia is thought to have about 5 MW of off-grid solar. Almost all current solar power is used for telecommunications. Other uses include village well pumps, health care and school lighting. A current government initiative plans to bring solar power to 150,000 households by 2015. The first phase included 1 MW of panels.[4] The first large installation of solar was a village grid of 10 kW in 1985, expanded to 30 kW in 1989. A solar panel assembly plant opened in Addis Ababa in early 2013 capable of making 20 MW of panel per year.[5]
Ethiopia is planning to build geothermal plants to offset restraints on power production by hydroplants due to seasonal water variation. American-Icelandic company Reykjavik Geothermal has an agreement to develop a 1000 MW geothermal farm.[6] The first 500 MW would be completed by 2018.
The majority of Ethiopia's energy needs are met by biofuels (fuelwood) for cooking. The government plans to distribute 9 million more efficient stoves by 2015 to reduce wood use while improving air quality and lowering CO2 emissions.[2] Reduced use of firewood should also help the government's goal of reforestation.
- ^ a b Solar energy vision for Ethiopia Opportunities for creating a photovoltaic industry in Ethiopia, Ethio Resource Group, 2012
- ^ a b Ethiopia's Climate-Resilient Green Economy Strategy, Government of Ethiopia, 2011
- ^ Ethiopia opens Africa's largest wind farm to boost power production, Reuters, October 26, 2013
- ^ Ethiopia: Additional Units Ordered in Africa's Largest Solar Distribution Project, Addis Fortune, Elleni Araya, 4 August 2013
- ^ New PV panel plant commissioned in Ethiopia (www.pv-magazine.com/news/details/beitrag/new-pv-panel-plant-commissioned-in-ethiopia_100009953/#axzz2ixJ6EtlP), pv magazine, 28 January 2013
- ^ Ethiopia signs $4 billion geothermal deal, AFP, Oct 23, 2013


text:
- Musician's Friend Best Selection, Price & Service. Guaranteed.
Call our Gear Heads
at: 800-449-9128
Call our Gear Heads
at: 800-449-9128
Melodic Minor Guitar will help you learn fingerings for the melodic minor scale while discovering the magical Augmented Major 7th chord and arpeggio that is found within it. Scale and arpeggio fingering positions are coordinated in a way that will simplify things and have you making music in no time at all. Modes and chords of the melodic minor scale are explained along with written examples that demonstrate melodic ideas over common chord progressions. You will also find an entire solo written on the changes of a popular jazz standard, plus many colorful chord voicings derived from the melodic minor scale.
Melodic Minor Guitar
Our product catalog varies by country due to manufacturer restrictions. If you change the Ship-To country, some or all of the items in your cart may not ship to the new destination.


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Canoeing on the Wye12 August 2010
In the interests of researching all good days out, I decided to take Alexandra, Olivia, my Mum and some of our French family canoeing on the Wye yesterday. I wonder Continue Reading >
Picking Wimberries9 August 2010
It is around the first couple of weeks in August that wimberries or bilberries (Empetraceae) are ready for picking. These are wild berries found on moorland and mountains across a Continue Reading >
Discover More of Wales18 July 2010
We have been going to the north Pembrokshire coast for about ten years now. Every time I make our annual trip I am blown away by the rugged beauty and Continue Reading >


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No issues
Clean, great look and feel, staff was very cheerful.
Free breakfast was average.
Room smelled like old cigarettes; pillow, bedding. TV only had one channel, faucet in sink only has hot water, heater is an old wall mount. Basically a dark and dingy place.
The location
The lobby smelled of cigarette smoke. The room heater was not plugged in and the room was very cold. The room was clean, but the maintenance was done poorly. Paint on fixtures, toilet caulking messy etc.
Yes!! Too much noise on the upper floor above our room. A lot of noise from the stairway too!!The location was too far from I-79 exit which we didn't expect to travel nine miles to get there. No Pa.road maps available at the hotel or in the area.
Staff was friendly and helpful. Breakfast was good.
The room smelled musty. Found a piece of what looked like the end of an old dried up burrito on the floor near the night stand when we checked in.
Our room was very clean, rooms looked updated and the staff was friendly.
We had no problem of any kind, we where very content with our stay.
When looking outside there was trash.. Plus pool was being remodeled
clean, free breakfast (with hot meal options), fast internet connections, free parking, staff were quite friendly and helpful.
location was far from where we wanted to go; hotel key did not work well twice and had to go down to get it reactivated.
Great breakfast selections. Nice beds. Very clean. Supper staff----friendly & helpful.Coffee all the time & cookies in afternoon is always nice!
Pool water was a little cooler than we'd like, but the hot tub was also cooler than some so our granddaughter could enjoy it. She thought that was great!Some difficulty using the remote to find channels.
The staff were very friendly and helpful.
The hotel is overpriced. The rooms would have been reasonable at about -- dollars less a night.
the staff was excellent and very attentive.
It's location was convenient and the price was right.
There was no coffee in-room (a staff member delivered coffee to our door, which was nice). It was not cleaned during the day, so no coffee restocked for the second morning and no tissues in the bathroom.
The swimming pool and swimming area was really nice.
There was a band playing when we checked in and the desk clerk said they'd be on until 2am. Luckily, she put us in a room on the other side of the hotel so we couldn't hear them, but a really loud band in a place where road weary travelers come to sleep?
The room was so nice to relax in.
Here's why:
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text:
Saban keeps Alabama, Texas in limbo with Brown on the way out
Reports that Mack Brown had stepped down as the football coach at Texas proved to be premature, but ultimately appear to be true. In the meantime, Texas and Alabama will...
or email firstname.lastname@example.com
Published: December 11, 2013 | 10:35am
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We've heard your feedback and are continuing to build a better Slickdeals. Click here to check out the updated site.
Welcome, Unregistered.
You last visited: Today at 07:32 PM
I also have over 150.00 on erewards and have had it sitting for over a year, the only thing I like is magazines and now the only magazines I like they don't have anymore so now I have no clue what I will use it for. This is another survey company that I now send to spam.
When the World Ends I'll Be Burn' 1
I just signed up to e-rewards a few weeks ago and have completed only a couple of surveys. So far they did sent me free samples of a product to actually try and review. I'm just hoping to get up to the $75 dollar level and cash out on a $25 giftcard to Starbucks.
Just noticed, like others, that my Gamestop gift cards have went up from $50 to $75 for the $25 gift card. Only good side is that it is now a gift code that they immediately e-mail instead of waiting for them to mail an actual card.
The rise in redemption price is the nail in the coffin for me. I would rather spend my time on a survey site where I earn less money per survey, but where the money can actual be used for something I want and where the price is not constantly changing.
Wow I cannot believe they changed a $25 Macy's Gift card that used to be $45 and now increased it to $70. At least I can redeem for my People magazine.
MSPA Gold Certified
Check out my blog:
I liked erewards in the past, i always got the gamestop giftcards,and they dont always make you wait 6 months to redeem, I had 3 cards last year.I just looked, and my gamestop has went up to $75 level also,that really sux. Other than mags, there is not much else on my rewards that i would use.
ot i know i just did an 1 1/2 survey with them for $30 and 10 before the end i got a fatal error so i am trying to figure out if they will pay me or not i have already contacted them and the support system who ran the survye.
Mine changed too. I have been a member for a few years and my only "good" option to chose from was the game stop gift card, which has always been $25 at the $50 level. I logged in to redeem it for another since it is the start of the new quarter just to see that it went up to $75 level - not worth the time and effort anymore.
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Crossing The Line: Celebrities Who Have Thrown Shade On Other Celebrities' Spouses- By Bossip Staff Categories: Hip-Hop Beef, matrimony-dom, Multi
Celebrities Insulting Celebrities' Spouses
You know what fighting words are? They're insults that deserve a true a$$whooping. Celebrities cross this line too often. But the worst offense is when celebrities go so far as to insult someone's wife. A couple of nights ago, Kevin Garnet allegedly told Carmelo Anthony that LaLa tasted like "Honey Nut Cheerios." Melo wanted to swing off! And can you blame him?
But KG isn't the only guy to cross the line and Melo isn't the only guy to get upset about it. Take a look at a few more habitual line-steppers who went in on celebrities' spouses.


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- Shopping Bag ( 0 items )
The New YorkerIn 1998, just as the battle over genetically modified food was heating up, the Monsanto C.E.O. Robert Shapiro—one of the men who represented O. J. Simpson—was struck in the face by a tofu cream pie hurled by enraged eco-protesters in San Francisco. Shapiro has moved on from Monsanto, the chemical giant that created Agent Orange and that, since the nineteen-eighties, has become a powerhouse in transgenic crop technology—the practice of inserting foreign genes (from, say, fireflies or chicken) into corn, potatoes, and rice. In Food, Inc., the veteran reporter Peter Pringle offers a refreshingly measured look at this brave new world of "gene guns," Flavr Savr tomatoes, contaminated taco shells, lax regulatory oversight, dwindling crop diversity, rapacious "biopirates," and geneticists toiling in grenade-proof greenhouses (opponents have been known to resort to tougher tactics than tofu pies). It's possible that the pie that hit Shapiro was created from modified soybeans, which are eaten by millions of people every day.
The potential upside of genetically modified foods is huge: making pesticides obsolete, creating huge yields, and ending world hunger. But the opposition from environmentalists and creationists—fuelled by superstition as much as science—has focussed on the potential for disaster, such as new human allergies. Kathleen Hart's Eating in the Dark is a concerned-citizen approach to the ongoing controversy that cites such respected scientific journals as Lancet for support. Whether these so-called "Frankenfoods" lead to a well-fed Utopia or to an ecological Armageddon, the G.M. revolution is, at least, helping to boost sales of organic food. (Mark Rozzo)


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The Truth About Summer Jobs
Lexy Funk
Co-founder and CEO of Brooklyn Industries
Co-founder and CEO of Brooklyn Industries
The summer following my freshman year in college, a good friend and I drove across the country, from New York City to California. She was the more organized person and had a job in Berkeley waiting for her when we arrived. I never really had a plan. I proceeded to spend about a month looking for work. I finally found a job delivering pizza at Domino's. I was just so happy to get a job, because I was getting very hungry, and I didn't want to call my parents and ask them to send me money. I actually ended up loving delivering pizzas. I even got the Employee of the Month award. That was the summer I realized that, even though I was pretty good at winging it, you have to have a plan. That's what happens with entrepreneurs. You don't have too much of a plan, but you know what you don't want. So you start something because you don't want the alternative. That leads to more things, and then you finally realize that you really do need a plan.


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Robert Plant
Diplo Was Joking About That Robert Plant Collaboration—But Now He's Not
Diplo revealed the story behind his infamous selfie with Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant.
Robert Plant & Diplo May Be Collaborating
Over the weekend on Instagram, Diplo posted a selfie with the Led Zeppelin singer and the concise caption, "Collab coming soon," leaving a whole lot of questions.
JACK's Inside Track: Led Zeppelin
Who's up for a movie?
Jack White, Robert Plant Finally Duet on 'The Lemon Song': Watch
White and Plant did something that was probably inevitable: perform together.
Robert Plant Reveals 2015 Tour with Pixies, JD McPherson
The tour kicks off with a set at Sasquatch! in May.
Robert Plant, Alison Krauss to Reunite for Lead Belly Tribute
Robert Plant seems determined not to get back with Led Zeppelin ever again, and but he's left the door open on a reunion with his other massively successful collaborator, Alison Krauss.
Led Zeppelin Let Loose 'Brandy & Coke,' An Older Version of 'Trampled Under Foot': Listen
The track comes from their 1975 album "Physical Graffiti."
Radio.com Minimation: Robert Plant Recalls Recording a Led Zeppelin Classic from a Wheelchair
"Achilles Last Stand" is one of Led Zeppelin's many classics. But recording it wasn't easy, as Robert Plant recalls.
Sasquatch Music Festival 2015: Robert Plant, Modest Mouse, Kendrick Lamar Headlining
Lana Del Rey, Hot Chip, Ryan Adams, the Decemberists and Spoon will also perform, among many more. See the full lineup.
Robert Plant, Black Keys, Alabama Shakes to Play Mountain Jam
Yes, another festival announcement.


text: › Student Life » Housing and Residence Life » Types of Housing » Housing Rates Home About Housing Contact Us Organizational Chart RA Office Hours Residential Life Council Student Employment Opportunities Services Prevent Bed Bugs Prevent Mold New Students Types of Housing Housing Rates Residence Halls North Village The Vinings Greenbelt Community Fraternity & Sorority Housing Engaged Living (Learning Communities) Housing Assignments & Selection FAQs Parent Information Housing Renovation Updates Plan a Visit ›Apply Now ›Give to Furman › Main Content Column 1 2015-16 Academic Year Housing Rates Semester Rate Academic Year Residence Hall Triple Room $2,496 $4,992 Blackwell Double Room $2,911 $5,822 Residence Hall Double Room $3,101 $6,202 Upgraded Double Room $3,388 $6,776 Residence Hall Apartment $3,431 $6,862 Residence Hall Single Room $3,460 $6,920 NV Shared Bedroom Apt. $3,513 $7,026 Green Belt Cabins $3,528 $7,056 NV Private Bedroom Apt. $3,763 $7,526 The Vinings Three-Bedroom Apt. $2,611* $5,222* The Vinings Three-Bedroom Apt. (Master Bedroom) $2,961* $5,922* The Vinings Two-Bedroom Apt. $3,323* $6,646* The Vinings One-Bedroom Apt. $5,320* $10,640* *The Vinings rates do NOT include utilities or furniture. Student leases run from May to May (dates vary each year). Summer is optional with weekly rates in addition to the semester rates above.


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abrunner81 3/18/2010Follow
2001 Mitsubishi Galant DE 4 Cyl 2.4L - Engine
My car idles low when I am slowing and stopping, 65% of the time it will die. What could be causing this?
1 Answer
HouseCallAuto 3/18/2010You likely have a bad idle speed control. They are a common fault on this car. A little pricey too.
Kevin - HouseCall Auto Mechanics


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Mine just arrived...has anyone else tried this out? It takes a good long while to get 'em (just under six weeks in my case), but they are AMAZING quality. Frameable, really. I won't bring them on vacation because they'd probably be ruined by the end of the trip, but they'd make a fantastic scrapbooking addition.
The Disney website to order them (and they're free, woot! ) is here:


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Our Reviews
I bought a car radio from somewhere else with the intention of replacing the factory installed one. I contacted Halfords and they bluntly told me that they did not fit a radio that was not supplied by them. I then stumbled upon Source Sounds on internet and decided to give them a try.
What set wind to my sails was their warm customer relations and their confidence that it was "do-able!" Their charges are reasonable as well.
They changed the facia and in the process provided extra space for auxillary equipment (space that had been covered by ony two knobs on the previous radio). They kept me updated on the progress.
I now have a trim dashboard , and am over the moon!
Thanks to Paul and his team.You customer care is second to none.
These guys are amazing! THE best car audio in the UK never mind sheffield!!!! :D
Very useful for any vehicle wanting to go from and too location


text:
Hi everyone! So I was wondering if I could pick some brains or get advice in regards to different audio careers out there. I went to an audio engineering school but I am still unsure what field most interests me. What different fields could you go into? Any resources you recommend?
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You can now invite anyone to meet at your favorite Starbucks.
Limited-time feature
28 year old woman | Concord, OH, USA | Seeking men 26-30 within 50 miles of Mentor, OH
Everything happens for a reason. Peace and love. "One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain." Bob Marley
Love my family. Love my friends. Love music. Love to travel. Love sports. Love tattoos. Love sunflowers. Love motorcycles. Love dogs. Love children. Love helping. Love correct grammar. Big heart, outgoing, happy, always smiling! 2 most important things to me: Do not lie! Do not cheat! Trust means everything.
Camping , Coffee and conversation , Dining out , Movies/Videos , Museums and art , Music and concerts , Exploring new areas , Performing arts , Playing sports , Shopping/Antiques , Travel/Sightseeing , Volunteering , Watching sports , Wine tasting
Baseball, Basketball, Football, Running, VolleyBall, Walking / Hiking, Yoga
I exercise 3-4 times per week.
I like Dogs
I recently went to AZ in August, we hiked 20mi and saw amazing views! I've been to the Bahamas, Chicago, DC, Charleston, Minesotta, Maryland, Myrtle Beach, Wilmington, Nashville and to Fl so many times I can't even tell you. I love traveling!
I love music, watching movies, and sports. I love football, tailgating and going to the games! I am a girl but I do know everything about the game! And I absolutely love my nephew! He is 1.5yrs old and the most amazing thing in my life.
I love playing volleyball! I play 1-2 times a week and some tournaments on the weekends. I like going out on occasion, Downtown Willoughby, Downtown Cle, Ohio City, Tremont or I just like staying in with friends watching a movie and having some wine.
Biographys are the only things that interest me. I have read 'Guns and Roses. The most dangerous band in the world.' And recently reading 'The Beatles.' And anything that has to do with school.
Z{{Cta}} {{#if HasMoreInfo}} ?{{CtaSecondary}} {{/if}}
|What she is looking for
|5'5" (165cms)
|5'10" (177cms) to 8'11" (271cms)
|Body type:
|Athletic and toned
|Athletic and toned
|No preference
|Dark brown
|No preference
|No Way
|No preference
|Social Drinker
|No preference
|Other profession
|No preference
I am a Cosmetologist and have been for 5.5yrs. I like what I do but don't absolutely love it.
|I'll tell you later
|No preference
|Never Married
|No preference
|Have kids:
|No preference
|Wants kids:
|White / Caucasian
|White / Caucasian
|Christian / Catholic
|No preference
|Some college
|No preference
I am currently back in school taking classes to become a Nurse.


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Scott: GOP should get behind Romney
Gov. Rick Scott weighed in on the Republican presidential primary on Tuesday, still declining to fully endorse a candidate but calling on Republicans to support one — Mitt Romney.
When GOP candidate Rick Santorum suspended his campaign, Scott stated what most observers — with the exception of Newt Gingrich and Ron Paul followers — say is the obvious: Romney has the thing locked up.
"Mitt Romney will be our party's nominee," Scott said, "and it is critical that all Republicans coalesce behind Governor Romney and focus on electing him as president so he can put the policies in place to create jobs, turn our economy around and get federal spending under control."
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Consumption Taxes
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Police Procedure
Grace Notes
Read some of Ann Lamott's Salon.com column.
Grace (Eventually): Thoughts on Faith is available for ...
Consumption Taxes
Consumed is ...
Open Phones
List of urban legend websites
List of Urban Legend Websites
A listener sent us this list of websites dedicated to debunking urban legends and myths:
Is Capitalism Hurting America?
Is Capitalism Hurting America?
Originally uploaded by wnyc.
Benjamin Barber, University of Maryland professor and author of "Consumed: How Markets Corrupt Children, Infantilize Adults, and Swallow Citizens Whole", discusses ...
Anne Lamott: Christian and Liberal
Anne Lamott: Christian and Liberal
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Anne Lamott, author of "Grace (Eventually): Thoughts on Faith", poses with Eartha Kitt. She appeared on The Brian Lehrer Show ...


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India grows nostalgic as Tendulkar calls it a day
India turned nostalgic with news of Sachin Tendulkar's looming retirement and the sentiment was reflected in the national media as it highlighted his glorious 24-year international cricket career.
Newspapers paid flowing tributes on their front pages, continuing the odes by news channels, which began running special features on Tendulkar immediately after his announcement on Thursday that he will retire next month.
''There will never be another you'' ran a banner headline on the front page of the Hindustan Times while The Indian Express carried a huge silhouetted picture of Tendulkar walking into the sunset, headlined ''The Void.''
The Times of India had a collage of pictures from Tendulkar's childhood and teenage days mingled with its masthead and its main story was headlined ''God Bye'' since he is often referred to as the ''God of Cricket'' in this part of the world.
All newspapers carried reactions and quotes from the cricket fraternity as well as lengthy articles listing the achievements of the ''Little Master'' since he became the youngest Indian test cricketer at the age of 16.
The 40-year-old Tendulkar, who will retire after a record 200th test during next month's home series against West Indies, is the most prolific scorer in international cricket with 15,837 runs in 198 tests and 18,426 runs in 463 one-day internationals.
Tendulkar, who has already retired from limited-overs internationals, is the only batsman to score 100 international centuries with 51 in tests and 49 in ODIs. He was also the first batsman to score a double-century in ODIs when he made 200 not out against South Africa at Gwalior in 2010.
News channels also ran reactions from the public both on camera and via Twitter while the morning radio shows poured in accolades on Tendulkar, whose retirement announcement had looked imminent but was a surprise as it came far ahead of the West Indies series.
''Congrats to my good friend Sachin on what can only be described as an amazing career!'' tweeted former Australia legspinner Shane Warne. ''I wish you & your family all the best in the future. Was a privilege & an honour to do battle with the little master on the field. But our friendship is something I cherish!''
Flamboyant India batsman Virender Sehwag said he had not come to terms with his idol's retirement.
''Sachin announcement hasn't sunk in yet,'' Sehwag tweeted. ''It feels as if an integral part of my life is in transition. Words aren't enough to thank u paaji (brother)!''
Rifle shooter Abhinav Bindra, India's only individual gold medal winner at any Olympics, tweeted: ''Don't really know what to say about sachin. Everything will fall short. Just wish him the very best for his next innings.''
Bollywood star Shahrukh Khan tweeted that Tendulkar would be missed on the cricket field: ''O no! Suddenly realised the meaning of addiction. Mine was the Master. I am going thru cold turkey. To see cricket without Sachin? Unbearable.''
Shahrukh is a co-owner of Indian Premier League franchise Kolkata Knight Riders.
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June 30, 2014 by Michael Briggs
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April 14, 2015 by brookshooley
Rutgers needs to tweak its offensive attack for 2015, and establishing the run is an important first step. Read More
December 26, 2014 by Julie Swartz
Rutgers won big in Detroit's Quick Lane Bowl against the UNC Tar Heels, proving they're worth of a spot in the Big Ten. Read More
December 26, 2014 by Sam Mattfolk
Rutgers continued its upward trajectory by thrashing a talented North Carolina team in Detroit. The Scarlet Knights are primed for a strong sophomore year in the Big Ten in 2015. Read More
December 15, 2014 by Matt Johnson
Both North Carolina and Rutgers hope to close out the 2014 campaign on a high note when they meet at the Quick Lane Bowl in Detroit. Read More
December 10, 2014 by Sam Mattfolk
North Carolina and Rutgers will travel to Detroit in a Big Ten-ACC battle of teams on different trajectories. Read More
December 9, 2014 by Connor Muldowney
North Carolina and Rutgers will meet up for the Quick Lane Bowl. Who will come out on top? Read More
November 20, 2014 by Connor Muldowney
Rutgers will travel to Michigan State this weekend. Let's take a look at five bold predictions for the matchup. Read More
November 19, 2014 by Taylor Sturm
Michigan State are out of the hunt for the College Football Playoff, but can finish the season strong for a chance at the Big Ten title. Read More
November 18, 2014 by Connor Muldowney
Rutgers will travel to Michigan State to take on the Spartans in week 13. Who will come out on top? Read More
October 23, 2014 by Mike Gibson
Chances are very strong there are no fans left who have ever seen Rutgers play Nebraska in football, so this Saturday's meeting will be a first for everyone. Read More
October 21, 2014 by Connor Muldowney
Rutgers will travel to Nebraska to take on the Cornhuskers in week nine. Who will come out on top? Read More
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Rutgers vs. Ohio State should be a fun game to watch. See what the final score will be for this Big Ten clash. Read More


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Tablet. Hotels for Global Nomads
Travel Better.
Tablet Plus
Bagni di Pisa Palace & Spa
IHC Italian Hospitality Collection Spa , Localita' Chia, Viale Belverde, San Giuliano Terme PI, Italy
Check availability as rates may vary for dates. Best rate guaranteed.
In the public imagination the city of Pisa has drawn a pretty short straw — thanks to that tower, it's relegated to the status of architectural footnote or physics-book illustration. Time was, however, it was known not for its shoddy foundation work, but for its thermal baths — hence the hotel in question, the Bagni di Pisa, an 18th-century nobleman's palace, just outside of town, recently restored and converted into a modern Tuscan spa getaway.
The period interiors remain intact, within reason, and modern necessities are as unobtrusive as possible — LCD televisions, for example, fold away when not in use. The Dei Lorena restaurant serves a health-conscious take on Tuscan cuisine, with a view of the Leaning Tower, and the bar serves aperitifs in the Lord Byron sitting room (this bit of Tuscany was clearly a hit with English literary types of a certain era, as you may already have inferred from the hotel's address on what is essentially Percy Shelley Street).
But what matters most is the spa. The famous waters, the famous muds (mud is taken very seriously here) — all manner of treatments are offered, from a simple soak to the most cutting-edge procedures. It's a splendid way to unwind — and of course the location, just outside Pisa, surrounded by the famous olive-strewn Tuscan countryside, is none too shabby either.
How to Get There
Bagni di Pisa is approximately a 30 minute drive from Galileo Galilei Airport (PSA). Please contact email@example.com to arrange airport transfers.
- Complimentary upgrade upon hotel check-in, based upon availability
- Complimentary basket of fresh fruit upon arrival (a value of about €18)
- 10% discount at 'dei Lorena' restaurant during stay
- Guaranteed 12:00 noon early check-in
- 40 Rooms
- Style: Traditional Elegance
- Atmosphere: Quiet
- 9 Guest Reviews
- Bagni di Pisa Palace & Spa
- IHC Italian Hospitality Collection Spa , Localita' Chia, Viale Belverde
- San Giuliano Terme PI, Italy
Hotel amenities and services
- 24 hour concierge
- 24 hour front desk
- 24 hour gym
- 24 hour room service
- Bar
- Bicycle rentals nearby
- Central air conditioning
- Free parking
- Garden
- Indoor swimming pool
- Jacuzzi
- Luggage storage
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Pet Friendly
- Restaurant
- Room service
- Sauna
- Spa
- Spa treatments (on request)
- Turkish bath
- Wi-fi (charges apply)
Other Pisa hotels
9 Guest Reviews
All reviews are from Tablet guests with verified stays.
- Thomas
- Stayed January 2015
- Rating: Good
What I liked:
The spa was great. The location between Pisa and Lucca is very nice.
What the hotel could do better:
Need wifi in the rooms even if you have to pay for it. It should be an option.
- robert
- Stayed June 2014
- Rating: Poor
What I liked:
spa was nice but that was it.
What the hotel could do better:
No wifi in rooms. Only place to get internet is in the bar area and that was bad. Hotel is in need of a facelift. Very musty smelling and needs a cleanup and replace old furniture throughout the hotel. Restaurant is like a large cafeteria. No atmosphere.!
- christa
- Stayed September 2013
- Rating: Poor
What I liked:
The hotel looks impressive from the outside, the ceiling of the bar is beautiful and it is in a convenient location.
What the hotel could do better:
The first room we were given had virtually no natural light. When asking whether we could change rooms, the receptionist begrudgingly showed us another one, which had marginally more light, but only marginally. However, the pillows were awful and prevented us from a good noght sleep. Further, the bathroom had no fan, a wobbly / ill-fitting WC seat, not enough light. The restaurant dishes were very variable, the light menu was fine but dessert seemed like a pre-packaged dish wthout any taste ( at 13 Euros we expected something really tasty and interesting- it was taken off the bill when I complained); similarly breakfast had a nice selection of ham and cheese but very poor bread and unripe fruit.


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|Property type
|Minimum Stay
|7 nights
An absolutely fabulous beachfront villa, Villa Mara is one of the finest villas on the island. It offers its guests the quintessential tropical luxurious lifestyle. All of the rooms in this fully air-conditioned two-story home are beautifully decorated in soft woods with bright tropical-colored fabrics. The main living and entertainment areas feature striking pink marbled floors with well appointed furniture, while the seven bedrooms are large, all with en suite bathrooms. Three of the bedrooms have king beds, two offer twin beds, one has two queen sized beds and the seventh is for children and offers six twin beds. Villa Mara has a large private swimming pool surrounded by a spectacular private terrace. A private tennis court is on the large beautifully landscaped property. The superb white sands of Mammee Bay Beach are just adjacent to the pool terrace. The trained staff at Villa Mara is comprised of a Concierge/Manager, cook, three maids and two gardeners. They will provide for your every need and our cook will prepare wonderful meals including local island specialties. There is also full security provided for the property. Villa Mara is situated in the gated community of Mammee Bay Estate and will provide you with an unforgettable vacation.
Our family of 19 (10 adults & 9 Children the youngest being 10 months and the oldest being 14) had a wonderful two week vacation at Villa Mara in Mammee Bay near Ocho Rios located on the North Coast of Jamaica. Villa Mara is exquisite and absolutely beautiful. It is well laid out and ideal for large families. All the bedrooms were extremely comfortable and located so that there is plenty of privacy. The bathrooms were modern and well equipped. Having one room available that sleeps six was ideal for our six grand daughters. The outdoor layout of the Villa made for a very relaxing two weeks, a very nice tennis court and basket ball hoop was well utilized by the younger adults. The covered lanai and extensive enclosed patio surrounding the pool suited our large group and we also enjoyed having our delicious meals in this covered area. Having the bar and refreshment also located in this area made it very convenient. The cushioned lounge chairs on the lawn between the beach and Villa set up under a large natural umbrella almond shade tree together with a cool ocean breeze provided a very relaxing atmosphere for reading or sometimes taking a "snooze". The private white sand beach provided great snorkeling and swimming. Before dinner we enjoyed cocktails on the second floor verandah overlooking the pool and beach, enhanced by a nice ocean breeze. Mammee Bay is a gated community with 24 hour per day security. We went for walks in the evenings, some went jogging during the day and at no time was there ever the slightest concern for our safety. We have mentioned the physical property with all its charm and beauty. However with the contributions of a very dedicated, friendly and talented staff under the fine leadership of Miss Hazel our vacation was exceptional and "truly a dream come true" resulting in many "tears" on the morning of departure. On arrival we were greeted, introduced and welcomed by Miss Hazel and her entire staff. The meals and service for our two week stay were outstanding, with the presentation of each dish equivalent to or better than most highly rated restaurants in the Monterey/ Carmel area where we reside. Being Jamaican by birth most of our menu comprised of local dishes gracefully presented and very delicious. The Villa was always spotless; laundry was done daily and returned to the respective rooms. We highly recommend Villa Mara for a family vacation it will live up to or exceed all your expectations of a get away in "A Jamaican Paradise"
This was the second week that I have spent at Villa Mara. It was like coming home!
We were met at the front door with welcomes and hugs.
Last year I thought that the stay was amazing - this year - it was even better. I don't know how the staff did it but they remembered little details about our likes and were right on top of everything. The beautiful house has the atmosphere of real Jamaica and I must say that I got the back to boarding school feeling when we had to leave.
My husband, daughter, son-in-law and two grand daughters accompanied me on this trip. Every one had a blast and felt most pampered. My grand daughters both cried when they left.
Many very, very happy memories have been made at Villa Mara. For that week we were made to feel that it was our home.
My family of 15 persons (ages 6 months - 66) thoroughly enjoyed our week at Villa Mara. The photos on VRBO don't do justice to this absolutely beautiful villa. The bedrooms are situated so that there is plenty of privacy; the bedding is very clean and comfortable; bathrooms are modern. The outdoor living layout of the villa made for a very relaxing week, and the covered lanai and extensive patio surrounding the pool suited our large group very nicely. The kids loved the pool's slide, and many also enjoyed snorkeling in the ocean. Oh, did I mention the picnic tables and cushioned lounge chairs under huge, shady trees on the soft grass alongside the beach? Again.....just fantastic.
Even better than the villa's amenities, though, was the extremely friendly and talented staff. Our every need was tended to. The food and service was fantastic (we have actually asked for recipes), and the villa was always spotless. Our two young mothers loved the daily laundry service. Hazel, the house manager, made sure our vacation was a success.
Saying good-bye was made easier just knowing that we would return in the future. We, obviously, highly recommend Villa Mara (just don't try to book it when we want to go!).
Besides Villa Mara being an exquisite property, the staff made us feel welcome and at home every minute! Our large family will be dreaming of this vacation for many years!
Hazel manages a large household beautifully and with utmost professionalism and calm. We know it's not an easy job with a house full of guests such as our family was to Villa Mara. She graciously took care of any requests we put forward. Her hospitality is a 10+.
Collette managed our mealtimes (3 per day, all 7 days!), with patience and always a lovely smile. I should retract the 3 meals per day, as it was really 6, the children ate separately!
Deborah's skills in the kitchen are amazing. Every meal was better than the last! She delightfully honored our many menu requests and surprised us with awesome local flavor as well. No one has stopped commenting on her family's recipe for Date Cake!
Kemar tended to our many outdoor needs with such friendliness and professionalism. Plus he will mix a magnificent cocktail!
Junior's groundskeeping, constantly, keeps Villa Mara SO spectacular (even with the couple days of rain we experienced!). His skills on the grill were much appreciated too!
Nellie and Claudette kept the lovely bedrooms and living areas sparkling and organized which was no easy task with all of us around, at all times (especially with the little ones afoot!). They did so quietly and with much pride in their work.
Paulette has probably never done as much laundry until our clan showed up at Villa Mara! It was so nice to have our clothing laundered daily and sent home clean too.
They are all a reflection of the goodness of the Jamaican people and we are and will continue to tell family and friends of our fantastic time at Villa Mara.
Myself and my family, a group of 17 people of all different ages, spent the most marvelous, relaxing holiday together where we were treated like royalty and pampered by the warm, friendly and efficient staff.
We had to be careful we didn´t put on too much weight - delicious gourmet food. It will definitely be a must for us next year for although we were 17 there is so much space we were able to be together yet not on top of each other, we highly recomend it!!
Villa Mara is located within the Mammee Bay Estate, just 10 minutes from the famous town of Ocho Rios. There are a number of attractions just minutes away from this fabulous villa including Duns River Falls – a 600-foot high waterfall cascading over smooth boulder where you can climb the most spectacular waterfalls on the island, Dolphin Cove – where you can swim amongst Dolphins and other marine animals and Mystic Mountain – experience a thrilling Zip line canopy tour, ride a 1900's replica bobsled or explore the surroundings above the canopy on the amazing Sky lift. Sufice to say, there are loads of things to do.
Villa Mara is approximately 90 minutes drive from Montego Bay and approximately 120 minutes drive from Kingston. Both cities are home to international airports however, we suggest flying into Montego Bay where a chauffer can pick you up and safely bring you to the property.
|Rate Period
|Weekend Night
|Monthly *
High season
Dec 16 - Dec 22
7 night minimum stay
X-Mass / New Year
Dec 24 - Jan 2
7 night minimum stay
High season 2013
Jan 4 2016 - Apr 11 2016
7 night minimum stay
My Standard Rate
7 night minimum stay
* Approximate monthly rate. Actual rate will depend on the days of the month you stay.
Payment is usually accepted in the quoted currency (USD) unless the currency and the amount is specifically agreed in advance with the owner / advertiser.


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The Program Animal Intern will assist ASDM Keepers with projects related to the daily care of the animals in the Interpretive Animal Collection. The IAC is dedicated to the husbandry and training of a diverse collection of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates.
This is an unpaid position and there is no housing provided. For school credit, check with your adviser regarding the requirements of your college.
Interns must be flexible with their schedules and be able to work 16 - 24 hours per week; some weekends and holidays may be required during the following 12 week terms:
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Internship duties include (but are not limited to): daily observation, cleaning exhibits/enclosures, preparing animal diets, implementing animal enrichment, observing vet care, training animals (operant conditioning), and preparing/presenting an approved project (of interns choice).
Applicants must currently be enrolled in, or have recently graduated from a college or university; they must also have completed at least one year of course work in a related field of study. Applicants should be physically capable of performing the job tasks mandatory for working with animals.
Interns will benefit from this internship by broadening their education and developing professional experience while working in an AZA accredited, non-profit museum setting. Interns will learn valuable skills related to animal training, veterinary care, and diet preparation. Interns will also be trained in operant conditioning techniques, raptor handling, and other skills relating to animal husbandry.
To apply for this internship, please visit ASDM's website:
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Martin O'Malley (D) @GovernorOMalley
Politwoops no longer follows this account.The majority of executions now take place in 5 countries: Iran, North Korea, Yemen, China & the USA. #MDRepeal
An archive of the public statements deleted by U.S. politicians. Explore the tweets they would prefer you couldn't see.
To meet the Twitter API Terms of Service, all deleted tweets shown here since June 22, 2012 have been reviewed and approved by the Sunlight Foundation.


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Dennis and Barbara Penick of Russellville celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary June 10, 2014.
They were married June 10th, 1964 in Columbus, MS, Barbara's hometown, and returned to Dennis's hometown of Russellville after the wedding. They have two children, Sharon McLevain and husband JW of Madisonville; Tim Penick and wife Kathy of Scottsville; and six grandchildren: Ariel, Caleb, Abi, Dylan, Trace, Jeremiah, and Daniel. The children plan to celebrate their parents' anniversary with a private dinner in Clarksville, Tenn.


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Does it even matter what's being said here, because if the title is any indication you should just skip down to the video and witness the thing that makes the angels cry and the devils swoon. But if you feel you need an introduction to what is evidence for Pacific Rim being the best movie to come of Summer 2013, here it is. A dimensional rift opens up in the Pacific Ocean, leading to giant monsters coming through and wrecking everything. Seeing an opportunity to make giant robots, the governments of the countries lying on the Pacific Rim make giant robots so they can combat the giant monsters decimating the population. Awesomeness ensues. And it is glorious!
It's difficult to put into words just what this actually means to me. I've already talked about how thankful I am that somebody managed to make a movie about giant robots that looks, feels, and seriously looks amazing, but there's so much more here. This could very well be an Avatar moment. When studio executives see the success of a movie and go, "Look at this pile of money! We need to make it bigger, and give them more of what they want!" Smaller dramas and character studies may have the depth and intensity that make moviemaking an art, but something this big potentially being a massive success could be paradigm changing. Like The Avengers last year (Wow that was last year already?), a movie with smart interesting characters doing amazing things with the full potential that a near bottomless special effects budget allows. I've only seen this clip and the official trailer and all of that is more memorable than some of the bigger budgeted blockbusters of past summers. Maybe this could inspire the right kind of change. Or at least one can hope it will. But that may be setting expectations a little too high, but not quite as high as a 300 foot tall giant robot designed to fight giant monsters with a rocket punch.


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Fun Facts About Boring Fruits
Lunchbox staples like bananas are more interesting – and nutritious – than you might think. Even the apples have a special side. Wow your friends tonight with these scintillating factoids, friends:
Nugget 1: Apples
An apple a day keeps the doctor away. You've all heard it before, but here's an interesting…slice…of knowledge that gives it further credence. A flavonoid called quercetin may protect the brain from damage that triggers neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. It turns out that apples (specifically the apple's skin) contain higher levels of quercetin than almost every other fruit and veggie. Research continues to show that there is something to the age old adage after all.


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The Goldtouch Go! Travel Notebook Stand supports your laptop while you work, giving you the freedom to sit back and get to work without straining your back, neck or arms. This unique design pops up quickly whenever you need it or stores away in a small case for traveling light.
Check out the video review of how these Goldtouch products are best used!
Amanda Halperin
United States
5 Stars
I would recommend this item to a friend.
Fantastic Product, Light-Weight, Compact, and Effective!
January 24, 2015
I work at a coffeeshop on my laptop a lot, and about once or twice every week, someone walks by asking me about my laptop stand. It's the only way I can use my laptop and not strain my neck. Plus, it folds up flatter than a book, so it's easy to transport. (Other laptop stands are kind of clunky in comparison). Setting it up is a little fussy, and the rubber pad doesn't always stay in, but this is a fantastic product. Highly recommend.
Minneapolis, MN
5 Stars
I would recommend this item to a friend.
Must Have for Travelers
January 6, 2015
Durable, folds compact for travel, makes working in hotel rooms and alternative workspaces more ergonomic.
George Koletsos
5 Stars
Goldtouch Go! GTLS-0055 Travel Laptop Stand Rating
February 10, 2012
Excellent product design and manufacturing. Met 100% my expectations!
Laptop stands are designed to be used with a separate keyboard. You should not type on a keyboard placed at upward angle.
List Price: $49.00
Our Price: $29.00
List Price: $39.00
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List Price: $150.00
Our Price: $140.00


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The audio source is spectrally shaped by filtering in the time domain to approximate or emulate a standardized or target microphone input channel. The background level is adjusted by adding noise to the time domain signal prior to the onset of speech to set a predetermined background noise level based on a predetermined target. The audio source is then monitored in real time and the signal-to-noise ratio is adjusted by adding noise to the time domain signal, in real time, to maintain a signal-to-noise ratio based on a predetermined target value. The normalized audio signal may be applied to both training speech and test speech. The resultant normalization minimizes the mismatch between training and testing and also improves other speech processing functions, such as speech endpoint detection.
1. A signal normalizer for processing an audio source comprising:
a speech signal detector receptive of said audio source for detecting when speech is present and is not present in said audio source;
a first compensation factor calculation module responsive to said speech signal detector for determining a first noise quantity and adding noise to said audio source when speech is not present in said audio source, to set the background noise level in accordance with predetermined target parameters;
a second compensation factor calculation module responsive to said speech signal detector for determining a second noise quantity for selectively adding noise to said audio source when speech is present in said audio source, to set a predetermined signal-to-noise ratio in accordance with said predetermined target parameters.
2. The signal normalizer of
3. The signal normalizer of
4. The signal normalizer of
5. The signal normalizer of
6. The signal normalizer of
7. The signal normalizer of
8. The signal normalizer of
9. The signal normalizer of
10. The signal normalizer of
11. A speech recognition system, the system comprising:
a speech recognizer of the type that is trained upon a predetermined corpus of training speech generated in a training environment and used by matching patterns in an utterance of test speech generated in a use environment; and
a normalizer for processing said training speech and said test speech by adding predetermined quantities of noise to said training speech and said test speech to minimize mismatch between said training and use environments.
12. The system of
13. The system of
a speech signal detector receptive of said audio for detecting when speech is present and is not present in said audio source;
a first compensation factor calculation module responsive to said speech signal detector for determining a first noise quantity for applying to said audio source when speech is not present in said audio source, to establish a predetermined background noise level in accordance with predetermined target parameters;
a second compensation factor calculation module responsive to said speech signal detector for determining a second noise quantity for selectively applying to said audio source when speech is present in said audio source, to establish a predetermined signal-to-noise ratio in accordance with said predetermined target parameters.
14. The system of
15. The system of
16. The system of
The present invention relates generally to speech signal processing and speech recognition. More particularly, the invention relates to signal equalization for normalizing a time domain source signal to a target environment, the environment being defined by channel characteristics, background and speaker loudness (SNR).
Many consumer and industrial applications of speech technology encounter adverse conditions that can reduce reliability. Background noise can easily degrade a weak signal, making automatic speech recognition very difficult. Other sources of signal variability also contribute to the problem. For example, variability in microphone response characteristics, room reverberation, speaker variability, distance from microphone, and the like, can easily confound a speech recognizer that has been trained under more favorable conditions. In designing speech-enabled consumer and industrial applications, it is often difficult to take all of these sources of variability into account.
To appreciate the difficulty, consider the significant difference in signal quality between the audio output of a telephone handset and the audio output of a speakerphone. Electro-acoustic differences in the microphone capsules of these respective devices account for some of the difference in quality. However, environmental factors and speaker variability can account for even more. The typical speakerphone will pick up a higher level of background noise as well as reverberation of sounds within the room. Speakerphone users rarely maintain a fixed distance to the microphone, and some users even vary their speaking patterns when using a speakerphone. A system designed to work with both handset and speakerphone will need to address this wide mismatch between these input sources.
While some of sources of variability can be mitigated by careful hardware design, many cannot. In many applications the environment simply cannot be controlled and users' speaking patterns cannot be fully anticipated. A good example is the cellular telephone. Consumers use cellular telephones in a wide range of different environments, including inside moving vehicles where road noise and wind noise is a significant problem. It is very difficult to implement robust speech technology features, such as telephone voice dialing features, in cellular telephone equipment. Other types of mobile systems, such as voice-assisted vehicle navigation systems experience similar problems.
The difficulty of implementing speech technology features in such consumer products is increased by the fact that these products have limited computational resources. Often, there is precious little memory available for storing the complex templates or models needed for robust speech recognition over a wide range of conditions.
To make matters worse, background noise, speaker variability, unstable channel effects and environmental variability degrade many other aspects of the speech system, not just the speech recognizer. For example, many systems employ some form of endpoint detection mechanism, to ascertain when the user has stopped speaking. End-of-speech serves as the "command" to begin processing the input speech. Endpoint detection is difficult; for example, a pause in mid-sentence, or even a weakly articulated word can be mistaken for the end of speech.
Prior attempts to address the problems attendant to background noise and other sources of variability have attempted to compensate for variability by manipulating the speech data in the frequency domain, or by developing large footprint speech models that are trained under a variety of adverse conditions or compensating model parameters at runtime. Such solutions have not proven effective for most consumer applications because they do not adequately address all aspects of speech processing (speech recognition, speech endpoint detection, and the like) and because they often require large amounts of memory or computation.
The present invention provides a preprocessing system and method that normalizes an audio source to one or more predetermined targets, resulting in a robust normalized audio signal in which background noise and other sources of variability are minimized. The system will minimize the mismatch that otherwise occurs between system training and system use. The system and method of the invention operates in the time domain, and in real time, while the system is being used. It may be deployed in the signal processing path upstream of speech recognition and speech detection (endpoint detection) mechanisms. Thus the normalizing effect of the invention can readily benefit all aspects of the speech processing problem.
According to one aspect of the invention, a three phase or three component normalization procedure is performed on the audio source. The audio source is filtered to spectrally shape the time domain signal to match a predefined target channel. This may be accomplished by configuring a filter based on channel parameters selected so that the spectral shape of the channel (including microphone and its attendant acoustic environment where applicable) matches a predefined standard or target channel. The effect of this filtering is to equalize the microphone and its acoustic environment to an appropriately selected standard microphone.
After equalization, the signal level of the audio source is adjusted prior to the onset of speech, to establish a background noise level or noise floor that matches or approaches a predetermined target background noise level. The target background noise level is selected with consideration given to the worst case scenario. In other words, the gain is adjusted so that the noise level prior to the onset of speech approaches the noise level of the worst case expected under noisy conditions.
Having established the background noise compensation value during the pre-speech interval, the system then calculates the noise level required to achieve a target signal-to-noise ratio. In the preferred embodiment this calculation is computed beginning from the onset of speech up to the current frame being processed, until endpoint detection is reached. The system mixes noise with the audio source to approach the target SNR by selecting the greater of the noise compensation value determined during pre-speech and the noise compensation value determined during speech. If the average signal-to-noise ratio is higher than the target value, additional noise is added or mixed with the audio source. If the average signal-to-noise ratio is below the target value no additional noise is added.
The foregoing processing steps may be performed in real time. The result is a normalized audio signal that has been manipulated to have a spectral shape, background noise level and signal-to-noise ratio that match or at least approach the predetermined target conditions. By performing the same normalization process on both training speech (for recognizer training) and on test speech (for recognizer use) the mismatch between training and testing is greatly minimized, resulting in a far more robust product.
For a more complete understanding of the invention, its objects and advantages, refer to the following specification and to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a preferred embodiment of the normalizer according to the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a signal normalization diagram illustrating the normalization concept with respect to a single target;
FIG. 3 is an exemplary speech waveform diagram useful in understanding the gain adjustment in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 4 is a normalization diagram illustrating the normalization concept where several different targets corresponding to different signal-to-noise ratios have been used for multi-style training;
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating how the normalizer of the invention can be used in a speech system to improve speech recognition and endpoint detection.
A preferred embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 1. The embodiment may be implemented in either hardware or software, using either analog or digital signal processing technology.
The audio source 10 is supplied as an input to filter 12. Filter 12 spectrally shapes the audio source, based on target channel parameters that have been represented diagrammatically at 14 in FIG. 1. These target channel parameters take into account the microphone, its associated acoustic environment, and other signal channel effects, producing a resultant audio signal that is equalized in the time domain. Filter 12 may be a digital filter that spectrally shapes the audio source based on the channel parameters 14 provided. Alternatively, filter 12 can be an analog filter having filter parameters that are selected to achieve the desired spectral shaping. In both cases, the filter is configured to manipulate the audio source to mimic or approximate the output of a preselected standardized microphone. Use of filter 12 for spectral shaping is not required in all implementations. For example, where only signal level equization is required, the filter may be omitted.
To illustrate this concept, refer to FIG. 2. In FIG. 2 two exemplary channels or microphones, designated A and B have been illustrated in proximate relation to a Target channel or microphone representing the standardized microphone in its standardized environment. In the illustration, microphone B is closer to the Target than is microphone A. The closer proximity of microphone B to the Target microphone is intended to illustrate diagrammatically that the Target microphone is selected so that its spectral properties are more similar to microphone B than they are to microphone A. In an exemplary application, microphone B may be the microphone within the speakerphone of a telephone device, whereas microphone A may be a microphone within the handset of a telephone device. Because the speakerphone represents the more variation-prone input device, the exemplary system is designed so that the Target channel or microphone more nearly resembles this more difficult or "worst case" input device.
The channels A and B do not necessarity have to represent two different types of input devices. They can be the same input device, used at different distances, for example. In an exemplary car phone or car navigation system, channels A and B could represent different types of input devices, such as handheld and hands free devices.
In most systems there is no one "best" Target channel or microphone. The system designer will thus select suitable target channel parameters so that a range of different microphones can be used with the system. This naturally results in selection of a Target microphone that does not out perform any of the microphones that will be encountered in the real world. In other words, if the "worst case" real world microphone has a 6 db per octave roll off at 6 KHz, then the Target microphone should not have a higher frequency response than this. Although the Target microphone may correspond to an actual, real world microphone, this is not a requirement. Rather, the Target microphone can be a virtual microphone defined by suitable frequency response characteristics.
Although the frequency response characteristics of the microphone will, in most cases, represent the primary factor in determining the Target channel parameters, the channel effects of other signal handling components may also need to be taken into account. For example, in a telephone system the bandwidth of the telephone network will also be a consideration in selecting the target channel parameters. The effects of acoustic phenomena, such as room reverberation, can also be minimized by suitable spectral shaping to reduce the resonances.
Returning to FIG. 1, the output of filter 12 is then processed by calculating a background noise compensation factor as at 16. The compensation factor is computed to achieve a pre-speech background noise that equals or at least approaches a predetermined target background noise level as indicated by the following equation:
where n′ is the noise floor, b is a noise source, such as noise source 23 and αn is the background noise compensation factor that determines the minimum noise that will be added to the audio source when speech is subsequently present.
Referring to FIG. 2, the pre-speech noise level of microphone A and of microphone B are indicated graphically at 110 and 112, respectively. Note that the noise floor or background noise level 110 of microphone S is lower than the noise floor or background noise level 112 of microphone B. The Target channel or microphone may thus be modeled by assigning it a background noise value that equals the worst case scenario expected in the real world.
With continued reference to FIG. 1, gain adjustment 16 applies a gain as needed to achieve a predetermined background noise as indicated diagrammatically at 18. The Target background noise value 18 corresponds to the value determined for the Target microphone operating in the expected worst case noise conditions. Background noise adjustment logic determines the required noise level adjustment in real time, based on before-speech signal levels.
The background noise adjustment logic 20 has a mechanism for monitoring the signal level at the gain adjustment point 16 and for distinguishing whether speech is present in the audio signal or not. Background noise adjustment logic 20 may, for example, receive a "speech present" logic signal from a suitable speech detector 22. Speech detector 22 may be the same system used to detect the beginning of speech or the ending of speech (endpoint detection) employed elsewhere in the speech processing system. The preferred embodiment monitors the noise signal level at background noise compensation point 16 and periodically computes an average signal level. The preferred embodiment defines a window comprising a predetermined number of digitally sampled frames (e.g. ten frames) and computes the average noise signal level with each window.
To illustrate, refer to FIG. 3 which shows an exemplary speech waveform at 114. The speech waveform 114 is preceded by a non-speech noise signal at 116. The speech detector 22 (FIG. 1) monitors the waveform and detects the onset of speech by the rising waveform illustrated in the speech detection window 118. For illustration purposes, assume that the target background noise value has been established at 45 dbA. In the illustrated waveform of FIG. 3, the pre-speech noise level 116 is below the Target background noise value. An additional noise 120 may be applied to the signal to raise the noise level 116 up to the 45 dbA target value. (In FIG. 3 a still higher noise at 48 dbA is also shown for comparative purposes, in which case no additional noise is added since it is greater than the target.)
Returning to FIG. 1, after the background noise adjustment logic 20 has set the gain adjustment 16 to the appropriate level, this noise amount setting is retained for the duration of the current speech signal. Once endpoint has been detected, the gain adjustment setting can be flushed, allowing the system to establish a new gain setting based on subsequently changing background noise conditions.
Having thus manipulated the audio source to achieve or at least approach the target channel parameters and the target background noise level, the system then further manipulates the audio source to achieve a target signal-to-noise ratio. This is accomplished by selectively mixing a noise source 23 as by noise mixer 24 using signal-to-noise ratio adjustment logic 26. Adjustment logic 26 attempts to achieve a target signal-to-noise ratio value illustrating diagrammatically at 28.
The signal-to-noise ratio adjustment logic 26 may also receive the "speech present" logic signal from speech detector 22. The logic adjustment system monitors the signal level after background noise compensation point 16 and computes a second noise level compensation factor over all frames of the audio source from the onset of speech detection to the current frame. This second noise level compensation factor is based on the following equation:
where s′ is the resulting signal after noise is added, b is the noise source 23 and αs is the second compensation factor. The adjustment logic causes noise to be selectively mixed with the source at point 24 to bring the signal-to-noise ratio of the audio source down to the target SNR value if applicable. The signal-to-noise ratio may be computed by taking the log of the ratio between the rms energy of the signal divided by the rms energy of the noise, where the signal energy is determined over all frames from the onset of speech to the current frame and where the noise energy is determined over an n-frame average. The system uses the maximum of the two compensation factors αand αs. The SNR is computed in real time from the beginning of speech to the current frame being processed.
If the signal-to-noise ratio calculated by the adjustment logic 26 is higher than the target value, then additional noise is mixed with the audio signal to bring the SNR down to the target value. If the calculated SNR is already equal to the target value, or if it is below the target value, then no additional noise is injected at the mixer.
The output 30 of noise mixer 24 thus carries a normalized audio signal that has been manipulated to correspond to the predetermined target values, namely, the target channel parameters, the target background noise value, and the target SNR value.
While good results may be achieved using a single target, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the invention can also be implemented using multiple targets to support a multi-style training of the speech recognizer on targets that are close to one another. This is illustrated in FIG. 4. In FIG. 4 three different target microphones have been illustrated. These correspond to different signal-to-noise ratios, in this case 16 db, 18 db and 20 db. The number of targets and their respective SNR values may vary depending on the specific application. Using multiple targets to generate multiple sets of training data and produce even more robust results. Perception of the speech content may differ at different signal-to-noise ratios: some consonants are masked in the presence of noise. By training the recognizer on data processed at different noise levels, the recognizer obtains some information on the variability resulting in useful statistics.
The exemplary normalization system illustrated in FIG. 1 minimizes the mismatch between training and testing. To better understand this, see FIG. 5 which illustrates training speech input at 130 and test speech input at 132. Training speech and test speech functionally differ in this respect. Training speech is used during development of the recognizer. Test speech corresponds to speech of the user of the recognizer after it is constructed. In practical application, training speech and test speech are rarely provided in the same environment. Background noise level, microphone acoustic and electrical properties, speech quality, signal path and other properties may vary widely. Thus, in FIG. 5 the training speech and test speech are diagrammatically represented having been produced in different environments, depicted at 134 and 136, respectively. Because of these many sources of variability, the training speech 130 and the test speech 132 may be slightly or highly mismatched. The normalizer technology of the invention minimizes this mismatch.
As illustrated, the training speech may be processed through the normalizer 138 of the invention and the resultant normalized speech is then used to train the recognizer as indicated at 140. The recognizer 142 can be based on a variety of different recognition technologies, including template-based technologies and model-based technologies, such as Hidden Markov Model (HMM) technology.
In a similar fashion, the test speech 132 can be processed through the normalizer technology of the invention, as illustrated at 144. The resultant normalized speech can then be used for endpoint detection as illustrated at 146 or by the recognizer 142 as illustrated at 148. Endpoint detection can be placed before the normalization process or within it (between channel filtering/background equalization and SNR equalization). When placed within, the results typically provide a more consistent input stream to the endpoint detector.
Whereas as the training speech 130 and test speech 132 are likely to be highly mismatched, due to their different environments and sources of variability, the normalized training speech and normalized test speech are far less mismatched. Thus the recognizer 142 has a far less difficult task than if the original training speech and test speech been used. Similarly, the endpoint detection system 146 will also operate more easily because normalization of the test speech tends to reduce fluctuations that might be mistaken as end-of-speech conditions.
While the invention has been illustrated in an exemplary preferred embodiment, it will be understood that the principles of the invention can be applied in a variety of different situations. Accordingly, the invention is capable of certain modification and change without departing from the spirit of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.
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text:
If there's one superhero who has the chops to invade Christmas movies and not make a fool of himself, it's Batman. He's smart, he's rich, he's smooth, and he's good with the ladies. At least, those are the characteristics of Bruce Wayne that sometimes don't show when he dons the suit, but he's as real as most superheroes get, and that's saying something.
At least, that's the premise Pistol Shrimp is going with, as they created this video showing the caped crusader invading well-known and well-loved holiday movies like Home Alone, Love Actually, It's a Wonderful Life, and A Christmas Story, among others.
Enjoy and happy holidays!


text:
VISN 23 Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Case Management Using Home Telehealth Equipment
The recruitment status of this study is unknown because the information has not been verified recently.
Verified June 2009 by VA Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System.
Recruitment status was Recruiting
Recruitment status was Recruiting
Information provided by:
VA Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
First received: June 9, 2009
Last updated: June 10, 2009
Last verified: June 2009
- Full Text View
- Tabular View
- No Study Results Posted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
No Study Results Posted on ClinicalTrials.gov for this Study
|Study Status:
|This study is currently recruiting participants.
|Estimated Study Completion Date:
|May 2010
|Estimated Primary Completion Date:
|November 2009 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)
Hele C. Noel, Donna C. Vogel, JosephJ Erdos, David Cornwall, Forrest Levin. Telemedicine Journal and e-Health. June 1, 2004, 10(2): 170-183
Vontetsianos T, Giovas P, Katsaras T, Rigopoulou A, Mpirmpa G, Giaboudakis P, Koyrelea S, Kontopyrgias G, Tsoulkas B. Telemedicine-assisted home support for patients with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: preliminary results after nine-month follow-up. J Telemed Telecare. 2005;11 Suppl 1:86-8.


text:
A Loose or worn gas cap may cause Check Engine Light to illuminate.
2005 GMC Yukon Denali Problem Reports
RepairPal Verified 2005 GMC Yukon Denali Problem Reports
The keyless entry system may stop working. Our technicians tell us the key fobs and keyless entry receiver may need to be replaced to correct this fault.
The 4WD transfer case encoder motor position sensor or the selector switch may fail causing the service 4WD message to be displayed. Fault code(s) stored in the transfer case control module will be of assistance in determining the exact fault causing the message to be displayed.
Power brake systems using "hydro-boost" may leak power steering fluid from the hydro-boost unit located behind the brake master cylinder. Replacement of the hydro-boost unit is the common repair to correct this concern.
One or more heater & AC (HVAC) temperature and/or air delivery mode door actuator may fail, resulting in improper temperature or air delivery. If this occurs, fault code(s) should be stored in the HVAC control module which should assist in diagnoses.
One or more heater & AC (HVAC) temperature and/or air delivery mode door actuator may fail, resulting in improper temperature or air delivery. If this occurs, fault code(s) should be stored in the HVAC control module which should assist in diagnoses.
One or both secondary air injection check valves may become restricted causing poor air flow resulting in illumination of the Check Engine Light. It is often recommend to replace both check valves even if a fault code is set for only one bank of cylinders. Replacing only one valve may result in a return trip to the repair shop.
A clicking noise may be noted from the turn signal flasher after the turn signals are switched off. This is commonly cause by a faulty turn signal switch which will require replacement.
The quick-connect fittings for the heater hoses tend to leak engine coolant. This problem commonly occurs because the metal housing has become brittle, which can break and cause leaks.
The daytime running lights are prone to burning out. Our technicians tell us that the light sockets may show signs of heat damage but usually are OK. Always be sure to use the correct replacement bulb for the best life expectancy. The new bulb recommendation for 2001-2003 models is #4114K (trade number).
Units with 4 wheel disk brakes may develop at situation where the park brake does not hold as it should. Our technicians tell us this can be caused by worn park brake shoes located inside the drum section of the rear brake disks. The worn shoes should be replaced and properly adjusted to correct this issue.
The sunroof may stop working for various different reasons. Our technicians tell us it is often better to replace the complete sunroof assembly than to try and repair the old one.
A poor electrical ground under the battery tray may cause the ABS warning light to illuminate. Our technicians tell us that cleaning and properly securing this ground and also the main ABS ground on the frame rail below the drivers door may be necessary.
A dirty throttle body may cause a lower than normal idle and possible stalling condition. Performing a throttle body service will commonly correct this concern.
The fuel pump may fail causing the engine to stall and not restart.


text:
Call it a wrinkle in time
Somehow it all sounds quite familiar
Posted: March 29, 2014 at 2:37 a.m.
"NEW YORK — Researchers said they have spotted evidence that a split-second after the Big Bang, the newly formed universe ballooned out at a pace so astonishing that it left behind ripples in the fabric of the cosmos."—Associated Press, March 17, 2014.
This story is only available from our archives.
Editorial, Pages 16 on 03/29/2014
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text:
Memphis suburbs consider legal action to force vote on municipal schools
May file injunction against Election Commission
Shelby County's suburban mayors are deciding if they will take legal action to steer the municipal schools referendums back on schedule for May 10.
The boards of aldermen from the three largest suburbs -- Collierville, Germantown and Bartlett -- could consider measures addressing the matter as early as next week.
Among the options under consideration are retaining an attorney to facilitate legal action, filing an injunction against the Election Commission's denial to schedule the referendums or waiting to see if legislative action could address some of the hurdles.
The suburban mayors and city attorneys have discussed those options after actions in Nashville and at the Shelby County Election Commission stymied their timetable.
On Wednesday, state lawmakers postponed considering bills that would lift the state ban on new municipal school districts, and the Election Commission rejected the suburbs' requests to put the school referendums on the ballot.
"We're going to try and get our heads together over the next few days," Bartlett Mayor Keith McDonald said Thursday.
Asked if they could still hold the referendum on May 10, McDonald replied: "If we act fast enough we might," adding that would mean action in the next week.
The Collierville and Germantown legislative bodies meet Monday night; Bartlett meets Tuesday.
Grassroots, citizen-based groups supporting municipal schools in Bartlett and Germantown, meanwhile, have ratcheted up their promotion.
My Germantown Schools will hold a rally Sunday, complete with T-shirts and campaign signs, to get out the vote on the referendum even though no one is sure if it will occur on the date reflected in the campaign materials.
Earlier this week, Better Bartlett Schools filed paperwork as a single-measure committee in order to raise funds to promote the schools idea. The filing is necessary for groups raising money to support or oppose issues on the ballot.
The fast-track efforts by Bartlett, Germantown and three other suburbs -- Arlington, Collierville and Lakeland -- to hold the referendums in May stalled earlier this week when state Atty. Gen. Robert Cooper issued an opinion that the outlying cities could not take any steps on forming school districts until the unified school system opens in August 2013.
That led the Election Commission Wednesday to deny the suburbs' requests for referendums.
My Germantown Schools, which boasts about 1,400 Facebook members, will continue plans for a 3 p.m. rally Sunday in the Germantown Performing Arts Centre parking lot near Neshoba and Exeter.
"We had already planned it before all of this news," said Paige Michael, who is on the steering committee. "But our thought is that this is going to happen. The vote might not be in May, but eventually it's going to happen."
The rally includes a march down Germantown Road to the Municipal Center.
The paperwork for Better Bartlett Schools was filed with the Election Commission on Tuesday, a few hours before the attorney general issued his advisory opinion.
"We felt we were going to be behind, but that may not be true," Mick Wright, a member of the group's steering committee, said of establishing The Committee For Better Bartlett Schools to raise money for campaign literature and signs.
"I've said all along that this is a chess match," Clint Hardin of My Germantown Schools said of the recent setbacks. "We just lost a pawn."
-- Clay Bailey: (901) 529-2393
Reporter Sara Patterson contributed to this story.
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Interest Daily Cosplay Persona 3's Aegis
posted on 2011-09-21 23:00 EDT by Gia Manry
Taken at the 2008 Tokyo Game Show
In the above image, an unidentified cosplayer portrays Aegis, a character from the 2006 PlayStation 2 role-playing videogame Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3. In the game, Aegis (also romanized as Aigis) is a combat android who can also be made to fall in love with the player character, Arisato Minato, in the Persona 3: FES extended edition of the game. Aegis also stars in her own game, Aegis: The First Mission, which takes place prior to the events in Persona 3.
The photo was taken at the 2008 Tokyo Game Show.
Photo © SteFou
To submit a Daily Cosplay photo, e-mail interest (at animenewsnetwork.com). Please include the name of the copyright owner (typically the photographer) of the image.
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