text:
Teachers Left Behind
Kathleen Knauth has had a rough school year. The principal of Hillview Elementary, near Buffalo, New York, has spent so much time typing teacher evaluations, entering data, and preparing for standardized testing, she barely had a minute to do what she used to do in her first 12 years of being a principal—drop in on classes, address parents' concerns, or get to know students. When a school social worker stopped by her office a few months back to get Knauth's take on which children might need her help, she realized she had hit a new low.
"Normally I'd say, 'This one's grandma is seriously ill. This child is going through a huge custody battle. This one has clothes that are too small. I could reel off six to eight things," says Knauth. "But this year, I had nothing."
Two weeks ago, after she was asked to raise the standards her students would be expected to meet for a fifth time this year, Knauth decided to resign and sent a public letter explaining that the educational reforms she's been asked to implement are at odds with what's important for kids.
Knauth is not the only one finding it tough to work in a public school these days—or, for that matter, detonating explosive public-resignation letters that only people with no hope of working in the public-school system again would send. (See, among others, the beautiful and heartbreaking retirement announcement sent by Syracuse social studies teacher Gerald Conti and the angrier but equally heartbreaking farewell sent by North Carolina math teacher Kris L. Nielson.)
Underscoring the frustrations of these disillusioned, vocal few is this year's Met Life survey of the American teacher, which documents a broader dissatisfaction among educators. The report, which is based on surveys of 1,000 K-12 teachers and 500 K-12 principals, shows a precipitous decline in morale. The percentage of teachers who rated themselves "very satisfied" has dipped 23 percentage points since 2008, from 62 percent to 39 percent—putting it at the lowest point in 25 years.
Job satisfaction among principals decreased 9 percent in the same period, with 59 percent of principals now rating themselves "very satisfied." Met Life, which conducted the survey in 2012 and released it in February, also found that more than half of teachers report feeling greatly stressed several days a week, an increase of 15 percent since 1985.
Perhaps it's not surprising, then, that the number of people entering teaching programs has been declining, too. While overall enrollment in graduate and undergraduate schools swelled 8 percent between 2006 and 2011, as people took refuge from the tough job market, the number of students enrolled in graduate- and undergraduate-teaching programs during that same period dropped 7 percent, according to the most recent data available from the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education.
There are likely many factors contributing to the retreat—and there are already a variety of proposed solutions. In California, where the number of people getting teaching credentials dropped 30 percent over the last five years and 12 percent in the last year alone, the legislature is now considering a bill that would make it easier for people to become teachers by changing the course requirements.
At Illinois State University, where applications to the teaching program have dropped 20 percent since 2008, the College of Education has decided to make a concerted effort to counter rhetoric around teaching that's "laden with antagonism," as Associate Dean Amee Adkins puts it. The school is planning to invite teachers to the campus to talk about the uplifting aspects of their jobs, and to screen documentaries that show the profession in a positive light.
Adkins says caps to teacher salaries and threats to their pensions—both of which have been on the table in Illinois—are likely playing a role in the drop in applications. The parents of potential students, she thinks, may be particularly concerned about these financial aspects of teaching and discouraging their children from applying. "Parents watch the news, see the newspapers and get very nervous when they think about their precious little ones' long-term future," she says.
Others insist that financial concerns are only the tip of the iceberg. Philip Kovacs, an associate professor of education at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, surveyed 600 local K-8 teachers to gage their morale. While half of his respondents said they wouldn't encourage others to become teachers, "Maybe only ten of them talked about pay," says Kovacs. In contrast, "most of the individuals who said not to head into the field felt very strongly about the negative impacts of high stakes testing."
Kovacs points to research that shows that mastery, autonomy, and sense of purpose—all threatened by recent reforms—are also central to human motivation. "A lot of people come into my teacher ed program with these wide eyed dreams of being a change agent for kids. But that's not what they're going to do. They're finding it's much more of a grind." As a result, he himself has taken to actively discouraging his students from teaching.
"My best and brightest students, I generally try to get them out of education," says Kovacs. "It is so miserable at this point in time that I think their efforts can be better spent elsewhere."
Recent policy shifts affecting teachers, including the increased accountability that's come with No Child Left Behind and the performance-based rewards set by Race to the Top likely have a role in the professional mood swing. Indeed, teacher morale has cycled along with educational reforms over the past few decades, according to Gary Dworkin, a professor at the University of Houston who has studied teacher morale and burnout since the 1980s.
Morale tends to plummet when the pendulum swings toward stricter accountability, says Dworkin. "And then it picks up as teachers discover they're not being fired, and then a new reform comes in and morale dips again." What's different this time, he says, is that teacher burnout, which he defines as "a feeling of isolation that produces a sense among educators that their work does not matter," has escalated to significantly higher levels than he has found before and is particularly affecting veteran teachers, who had grown accustomed to being able to control what and how they taught.
Those who work in low-income areas or who have come up against budget constraints appear to be disproportionately down about the profession. Teachers at schools where the budget went down in the last year were less likely to be satisfied and more likely to experience stress on the job, according to the Met Life report. Similarly, Dworkin has found higher levels of burnout in high-poverty, low-performing schools.
No doubt these findings can in part be explained by the challenges of dealing with the effects of poverty on children and the need for supplies and support. But they may also reflect the ways educational reforms are playing out in different communities. While attainment standards and standardized tests are just that—standard, and being set by state and federal government—the decision to tailor curriculum accordingly, or "teach to the test," is a highly local decision.
"Some of the schools where parents are themselves highly educated, where schools are well-funded, there is enough resistance to these movements," says Arthur E. Wise, president emeritus of the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) in Washington, D.C. In poorer districts, he says, that's not the case.
As for the future, Wise, who has worked in education since the 1970s, says he could see it going either of two ways. One possibility is that "teaching will become less attractive and therefore the micromanagers will continue to create new policies to micromanage." This, in turn, will make the economic divide even more pronounced, creating "a two-class system, one half focused on drill and kill, and the other that's trying to hold onto the more effective ways to serve students."
Or, speculates Wise, "people will come to realize the futility of the current practice, and turn back."
Wed, 2013-05-15 12:00
Thu, 2013-05-16 19:32
I'm a highly skilled, well trained, articulate and organized public high school teachers. I've been in the classroom for a combined number of 15 years with a stint as a stay at home Mom and a graphic designer in between terms. I am the department head of a school in a district that has a new superintendent. So eager are these upper level educrats to increase their own power and wealth that they will fall for just about anything in order to improve "data". Data drives them. They dream of data.
In the meantime while they buy into more programs, systems and hardware, our class sizes are growing. And in public schools more kids means more issues. We have far more troubled kids than we did in the past. And the ADA Least Restrictive Environment measures do us no favors as now seriously emotionally disturbed or mentally disabled students are mainstreamed willy-nilly with the idea that teachers can somehow personalize the education experience for every single child in their class. In one class of 30 students there may be as many as ten students who have copious IEP mandates that must be served first. Most teachers are scrambling to serve those kids first, then trying to get enriching material and projects for the GT kids and if they are lucky, the regular kids will get a few seconds of face time.
This is no way to run an educational system. Like it or not, tracking kids and having students in groups according to their abilities is a far more successful and productive system than dropping kids in and assuming that proximity to GT kids somehow makes them better. This type of mindless "everyone gets a trophy" non competitive nonsense is creating a generation of students who not only do not know how to compete, but they do not know how to fail or how to succeed after failure. They are creating a nation of emotional cripples.
In a similar fashion the Feds have burdened local districts with mandated feelgood policies that have nothing to do with education and everything to do with social engineering. I don't care what the ratio of students to computers may be, because to simply turn kids loose on the Internet and assume they will magically learn is like throwing a toddler in the deep end of the pool. Sure, they might swim, but probably not. Right now I have high school seniors who can't look up sources in a book index. I have students who cannot sign their name because they cannot write or read cursive. I have students who will write down the first thing that comes up in Google for a research assignment even if it doesn't make sense.
Fri, 2013-05-17 10:17
Trublutopaz wrote: "This type of mindless "everyone gets a trophy" non competitive nonsense is creating a generation of students who not only do not know how to compete, but they do not know how to fail or how to succeed after failure. They are creating a nation of emotional cripples."
I agree with this comment. I teach college courses and deal with the results of this cycle in ways I never dreamed I would when I started teaching 16 years ago. Far too many students - even from the "good" districts - don't understand how to think, how to learn, or how to seek. They have fully absorbed the hollow "everyone gets a trophy" approach to school. Too many seem to think if they complete course work in a difficult class, they deserve an A. They seem to think that effort trumps knowledge. It is my hope that they will come to understand that the development of knowledge takes time, engagement, growth from mistakes, and patience. I sympathize with those of you teaching K-12. I don't know how we fix the mess we are in. I wonder if part of the impatience I see in college students is partly shaped by the continuous cycle shifts of new programs and mandates. Perhaps we are "teaching" them impatience and lack of engagement by our actions.
Thu, 2013-05-16 19:39
Looking at the failing performance of high schools over the last quarter century despite tripling money spent on secondary education it seems like teachers became disenchanted a long time ago.
How long before we return to a curriculum based education that works? Whenever the teacher's unions decide the schools are for the students instead of the staff.
You need to be logged in to comment.
(If there's one thing we know about comment trolls, it's that they're lazy)


text:
DES MOINES, Iowa — Senior Jarod Trice secured his third All-America honor with a pair of victories Friday night during the fourth session of the NCAA Championships at Wells Fargo Arena.
While Trice battled back to the consolation semifinals with a pair of victories following his afternoon loss, fellow senior Ben Bennett saw his run at a national title come to and end with a semifinal loss to No. 3 Robert Hamlin (Lehigh), 3-2.
Bennett became the first four-time All-American in program history earlier in the day and was seeking to become just the second national champion in program history, but was unable to get a takedown in the third period for a come-from-behind win. Hamlin took a 2-0 advantage with a takedown in the first period, but an escape by Bennett and another escape after choosing bottom in the second tied things, 2-2.
Hamlin chose down to start the third period, quickly escaped and fought off Bennett's attacks to hold on for the win.
Bennett will now wrestle in the consolation semifinals versus Ethen Lofthouse (Iowa) Saturday and can still finish as high as third at 184 pounds.
Trice was able to bounce back after falling in the quarterfinals earlier in the day, earning a pair of decisions over Joe Stolfi (Bucknell), 7-3, and Matthew Gibson (Iowa State), 3-0.
The senior took Stolfi down and turned him for a two-point near fall in the first period and eventually extended his lead to 6-3 with a takedown in the third period. Trice's second match of the session was scoreless through a period, but a takedown by Trice and an escape in the third period moved the Highland Park, Mich., native into Saturday's consolation semifinal versus No. 1 Dom Bradley.
Senior Scotti Sentes saw his prestigious career come to an end just shy of his third All-American honor, dropping a high-scoring affair to No. 5 seed Chris Dardanes (Minnesota). Sentes had a 5-0 lead after the first period thanks to a takedown and three-point near fall, but Dardanes began his come back and took down Sentes four times over the final two periods to tie the match, 9-9.
Dardanes made quick work of Sentes in the sudden victory period, needing just eight seconds to earn a takedown and end Sentes' tournament.
Saturday's morning session will begin at 11 a.m. Eastern and will include wrestle back semifinals and third through eighth place matches.
125 pounds – Christian Cullinan
First Round: W, decision Joe DeAngelo (N.C. State), 7-2
Second Round: L, decision No. 4 Nicholas Megadulis (Penn State), 5-2
Consolation Second Round: L, decision Edward Kilmara (Okla. State), 6-3
133 pounds – No. 10 Scotti Sentes
First Round: W, major decision Jimmy Morris (Rider), 13-2
Second Round: L, decision No. 7 Jonathon Morrison (Okla. State), 3-1
Consolation Second Round: W, major decision Matt Bystol (Columbia), 11-1
Consolation Third Round: W, fall Jamie Franco (Hofstra), 2:25
Consolation Fourth Round: L, decision No. 5 Christopher Dardanes (Minnesota), SV 11-9
149 pounds – Donnie Corby
First Round: L, decision Dan Osterman (Michigan State), 3-1 SV
Consolation First Round: W, decision Alexander Richardson (ODU), 4-3
Consolation Second Round: L, decision Raymond Borja (Navy), 9-6
157 pounds – Lucas Smith
First Round: L, major decision, No. 7 Jesse Dong (Va. Tech), 8-0
Consolation First Round: L, fall No. 10 Roger Pena (Oregon State), 2:29
165 pounds – Mike Ottinger
Preliminary round: L, decision Ryan LeBlanc (Indiana), TB1 5-3
Consolation preliminary: L, decision Austin Wilson (Nebraska), 6-2
174 pounds – Craig Kelliher
First Round: L, decision No. 3 Michael Evans (Iowa), 2-0
Consolation First Round: W, decision Leroy Munster (Northwestern), TB1 3-2
Consolation Second Round: L, decision Cody Walters (Ohio), 2-1
184 pounds – No. 2 Ben Bennett
First Round: W, decision Tony Dallago (Illinois), 7-3
Second Round: W, major decision Alex Utley (UNC), 10-0
Quarterfinals: W, decision No 7 Jimmy Sheptock (Maryland), 1-0
Semfinals: L, decision No. 3 Robert Hamlin (Lehigh), 3-2
Consolation Semifinals: vs. No. 12 Ethen Lofthouse (Iowa)
Heavyweight – No. 10 Jarod Trice
First Round: W, decision Daniel Miller (Navy), 2-0
Second Round: W, decision No. 7 Connor Medbery (Wisconsin), 6-4
Quarterfinals: L, decision No. 2 Tony Nelson (Minnesota), 1-0
Consolation Fourth Round: W, decision Joe Stolfi (Bucknell), 7-3
Consolation Quarterfinals: W, decision Matthew Gibson (Iowa State), 3-0
Consolation Semfinals: vs. No. 1 Dom Bradley (Missouri)

subset: commoncrawl


text:
View large image
RRP: kr1807,89
In stock Usually dispatched within 24 hours
100% Italian: Immediately distinguishable. The entire manufacturing process is still carried out in Italy to maintain the highest quality.
The ultra-lightweight in-moulding technology used in its production allows obtaining total absorption of the energy transmitted by the impact in the case of falls.
Key Features:
Helmets that are sold on Probikekit.com are certified with a European CE EN1078 standard. This is a European standard and although the helmet is perfectly safe to use, specific countries may have their own certification which is legally required if you intend to wear the helmet recreationally or in a competitive racing environment. If you are unsure, please check your specific country requirements and check with the manufacturer to see if the helmet has received any additional certification.
If ordered before 8pm, delivered by courier next working day. Available on orders placed before 8pm (2pm weekends and Bank Holidays) for delivery next business day. Applies to most delivery addresses within mainland UK.
Please check the stock availability notice on your item when placing your order. This item is: In stock | Usually dispatched within 24 hours
Please remember to add postal time (2-3 working days) to obtain a complete estimate of delivery to your door.
You will receive an email to confirm when your item has been sent.
You can also check the status of your order and individual items by accessing your account details and following the prompts.
Please allow 10 working days from dispatch of your order before notifying us of any late deliveries.
It may be advisable to check with your neighbours to see if a parcel has been left with them, check any outhouses you might have where it may be left if it cannot fit through your letterbox and contact your local sorting office to see if the item has been returned to the depot as undelivered and awaiting collection.
Please see our returns policy.
No more then 1000 characters long please.
Salice Bolt Ita Helmet - Black
RRP kr1443,77
Save: 23%
Giro Aeon Cycling Helmet 2014
RRP kr2511,87
Save: 44%
Giro Atmos II Cycling Helmet
RRP kr1255,87
Save: 20%
Casco Daimor Helmet
RRP kr1130,27
Save: 28%
There are currently no reviews.
Salice Bolt Cycling Helmet
Select image


text:
BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//126.96.36.199//NONSGML kigkonsult.se iCalcreator 2.16.1// CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-FROM-URL:http://www.victorybeer.com X-WR-TIMEZONE:America/New_York BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York X-LIC-LOCATION:America/New_York BEGIN:STANDARD DTSTART:20151101T020000 TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT DTSTART:20160313T020000 TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT UID:firstname.lastname@example.com DTSTAMP:20150708T025606Z CATEGORIES;LANGUAGE=en-US:Beer Tasting\,Paradise Farm Camp\,Pennsylvania CONTACT:firstname.lastname@example.com DESCRIPTION:
Victory Brewing Company Presents:\n
Join us at Plantation Field on Saturday\, August 1 from noon to 4pm for the 7th Annual Victory BrewBQ competition. p>\n
The competition is a two-category BBQ cook-off! Each team will comp
ete to see who can make the best chicken and ribs according to our judges.
\nCome out to enjoy a day filled with live music\, beer\, and great food from the area's local restaurants!
A variety of vendors will also be participating\, come and grab some unique BBQ sauces\, rubs\, and maybe even some BBQ tips & techniques!\n
This year\, you also will b e able to taste and vote on the People's Pork award for our restaurant com petition.\n
General Admission is Free\n
Smoking is permitted in designated areas only.\n
This year we are accepting registration for 30 competitors and 30
judges for the competition.
\nCompetitors\, please read the 2015 BrewBQ Rules for Pit Master Contest bef ore applying to compete.
For more information and online applicati
ons\, visit our BrewBQ page.
\nBoth competitor and judge applications must be r eceived no later than July 6th.
For Pit Master Teams\, cash prizes and trophies will be awarded for first through fourth place in each category (chicken and ribs).\n
Prizes are first ($250)\, second ($125)\, third ($75) and fourth ($50).\n
strong>Restaurant Competitor Information:
In addi tion to the Pit Masters\, we are inviting local restaurants to compete for the chance to win our People's Pork award! The local community w ill be the judge as they taste and vote on the best pulled pork offered by the area's restaurants!\n
Applications can be found on our BrewBQ page!DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20150801T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20150801T160000 GEO:+39.909215;-75.764549 LOCATION:Plantation Field @ 387 Green Valley Road\, Unionville\, PA 19375\, USA SUMMARY:2015 BrewBQ URL:http://www.victorybeer.com/ai1ec_event/7663-2/?instance_id= X-COST:free! END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR


text:
15 things we can't wait to do at camp
Is he flirting with you or just a friendly dude?
Too cute: This orphaned tree kangaroo found an unexpected new mom
Naughty Boy dishes on Zayn Malik's new direction
Love is in the air, Aquarius!
The one thing you need to step up your accessory game
This fruit offers some *serious* skin benefits
The hidden reasons you should read more this summer
Have you ever been bullied? Share your story to help other girls!
GL + Disney take a look at the Teen Beach 2 premiere
More Friends = More Fun
GL Tweets !
4 HOURS AGO You asked, we answered: All of your period problems explained: http://t.co/m2z8rSRDk4 pic.twitter.com/uDc7ZhRphV
5 HOURS AGO Now we know our A-B-Cs...and AAs and Ds and DDs! : http://t.co/2x8U6KXZE0 pic.twitter.com/MUU78ifVQZ
6 HOURS AGO *Nail* your mani this summer with these swoon-worthy shades: http://t.co/9SZQnQpniY pic.twitter.com/U05xIS5hWD
sponsored links
Jaguar Stones
Win it: Visit all your favorite villains in The Isle of the Lost!
Ever wonder what happened to all of your excellently evil Disney faves? Enter for a chance to check out the new generation of bad guys (and girls) in The Isle of the Lost, a prequel to Disney Channel's Descendants!
CLICK HERE for your chance to win.


text:
For Immediate Release: March 23, 2011
Artwork concepts being considered for the Mark Center Transportation Center will be on display at the William Ramsay Recreation Center March 24, 2011 through March 31, 2011. In partnership with the City of Alexandria, the United States Army Corps of Engineers, Washington Headquarters Service, Duke Realty, and Wisnewski Blair & Associates welcomes the public to view and comment on the artwork concepts. The public's comments will be taken into consideration by the Mark Center Transportation Center Artwork Selection Committee.
Artists whose concepts will be on display:
Linda DePalma
Cheryl Foster
Heidi Lippman
Dierdre Saunder
Linda DePalma
Cheryl Foster
Heidi Lippman
Dierdre Saunder
The Mark Center Transportation Center Artwork Selection Committee will evaluate the artwork concepts and select the winning artist to provide artwork for the Transportation Center. The artwork is anticipated to be installed in the fall of 2011.
The William Ramsay Recreation Center is located at 5650 Sanger Avenue in Alexandria, VA. The artwork concepts will be open for display during the recreation center's normal operating hours. Monday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sunday: 1 - 5 p.m.
For more information, contact Alisa Carrel, Deputy Director, Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities/Office of the Arts, 703-746-5590 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
Find neighborhood parks?
Start a small business?
Learn about new development?
Pay my taxes or parking citation?
Report fraud, waste and abuse?
Speak at a City Council meeting?
Apply for a marriage license?
Find information for retired City employees?
Get information about permits?
Search property and sales data?
Find visitor information?
Find volunteer opportunities?
Obtain and review public documents and records?
Find information about parking?
Learn more about Verizon FiOS?
1108 Jefferson St.
Alexandria, VA 22314703.746.4343Fax: 703.838.6344Email: Information
Office Hours
8 am - 5 pm
James B. Spengler


text:
Top Searches:
Horoscopes |
Salaries |
Washam |
July 22, 2013
Links: Australian Glass and the Pacific Northwest at Museum of Glass
Wsu Master Gardeners of Pierce County at Master Gardener of Pierce County
The Shape of Things by Neil Labute at Dukesbay Theater
All events for today »
Submit an event | All events
Billy and Nick are salesmen whose careers have been torpedoed by the digital world. Trying to prove they are not obsolete, they defy the odds by talking their way into a coveted internship at Google, along with a battalion of brilliant college students. But, gaining entrance to this utopia is only half the battle. Now they must compete with a group of the nation's most elite, tech-savvy geniuses to prove that necessity really is the mother of re-invention.
Rated PG-13 for sexuality, some crude humor, partying and language.
Visit the official site
Cast: Owen Wilson, Vince Vaughn
Produced by:
Directed by: Shawn Levy
Written by:
Running time: 1hr 59min
Opens: Jun 07, 2013 Nationwide


text:
Husbands who do a lot of cooking, cleaning, laundry and other traditionally female forms of housework may do their marriages some good -- but, contrary to popular belief, they are not rewarded with more sex, a new study finds.
Instead, it's the guys who do the most lawn work, car repair, driving and bill-paying - traditional men's jobs - who have the most sex in marriage, the study suggests. The same is true for women who do the most traditional female housework, according to the study published in the February issue of American Sociological Review.
For better or worse, the authors say, heterosexual married couples may still be reading from traditional "sexual scripts" when it comes to both housework and sex.
In other words, the study concludes: "Men or women may, in essence, be turned on (however indirectly) when partners in a marriage do more gender-traditional work."
The study comes with one major caveat: It is based on data collected two decades ago. While the researchers say little has likely changed since then, some other experts disagree.
Couples in which women did all of the traditional female chores had sex 1.6 times more each month than couples in which men did all of those jobs. The more cooking and cleaning a husband did, the less sex the couple had; women's cooking and cleaning was linked with more sex. Couples in which men did more traditional male chores also had more sex; it did not seem to matter if women did more or less of those chores.


text: Interviews Whatever Became of Washington's Birthday? February 19, 2001 Jason Bezis, a law student at the University of California at Berkeley, has always harbored a special appreciation for our first president. He wants the nation to refer to our annual Februrary federal holiday by its given name: Washington's Birthday. Real Media


text:
works well with:
Camouflage Oil Free
$25.00 > Add to bag
Concealer Under Eye
$32.00 > Add to bag
Brush Cleaner
$0.00 > Add to bag
Customer Reviews
- I have two!! Review by Lucy
Quality Value Price
This is a fabulous brush - I use it every single day. I always apply Camouflage Oil Free Concealer with the precision camo brush and I get even, precise coverage just where I need it. I keep one with my brushes and makeup at home, and one ready to go with my other travel essentials!
(Posted on 11/4/10)
See More Reviews


text:
Details and Shopping
Customer Favorite
- FP Exclusive :
- Only sold thru Free People
Suede ankle bootie with faux wood heel and low platform. Colorful embroidered trimming. Lace up front. Leather trimming where body meets wood and has stud detailing all around. Inside is lined with real sheepskin.
*By Penelope Chilvers
*3 1/4" heel height, 1" platform height, 4" shaft height
*By Penelope Chilvers
*3 1/4" heel height, 1" platform height, 4" shaft height
Rated 3.5 out of 5Â by 2 reviewers.
Rated 4 out of 5Â by Mschmeck Cute! A lil big...? I usually wear a size 7.5, so I ordered a size 38 (US size 8) since there are no half sizes, figuring I'd just wear thick socks, and sometimes I end up wearing an 8 on occasion. But I was wrong and they were def way too big:/ So I'm exchanging them for the 37... Hopefully the 37 won't be too small, but I doubt it since the 38 was way too big! So I suggest sizing down if you're in between sizes. Leather usually gives a lot over time too. Other than that I loved them. 12.29.2012
Rated 3 out of 5Â by happylane cute style They were cute and comfy, just didn't think they looked as high quality in person as I would expect from the price. So I returned them. 11.19.2012
1-2 of 2
Product Reviews
There are no reviews for this product yet. Check back. or write a review yourself.


text:
Top Searches:
Horoscopes |
Salaries |
Washam |
July 22, 2013
Links: Australian Glass and the Pacific Northwest at Museum of Glass
Wsu Master Gardeners of Pierce County at Master Gardener of Pierce County
The Shape of Things by Neil Labute at Dukesbay Theater
All events for today »
Submit an event | All events
Chanda, 12 years old, learns of a rumor that spreads like wildfire through her small, dust-ridden village near Johannesburg. It destroys her family and forces her mother to flee. Sensing that the gossip stems from prejudice and superstition, Chanda leaves home and school in search of her mother and the truth.
Rated PG-13 for mature thematic material and some sexual content.
Visit the official site
Cast: Khomotso Manyaka
Produced by:
Directed by: Oliver Schmitz
Written by: Dennis Foon
Running time: 1hr 40min
Opens: Jul 15, 2011 NY/LA


text:
Cozy Colorado Victorian for sale
I found this vintage cottage in the mountain town of Georgetown, Colorado.
Georgetown is a historic landmark district that has been kept largely in its Victorian state. The town definitely has that Hallmark Christmas card feel about it.
In fact, our favorite singer here at House Crazy – John Denver – was so taken with the village that he actually filmed a movie in Georgetown back in 1986 called The Christmas Gift.
The price of this 1880 two-bedroom bungalow is $335,000. That may seem high for a small older home, but keep in mind that Georgetown is just a short drive from world class skiing. And look how perfect it is inside…
The house has southern exposure – which is a big selling point in these high mountain towns surrounded by towering mountain ranges.
Melissa's little sunburst house
Today I am featuring a very special house. Melissa's 500 square foot house in Denver, Colorado may be small in stature but it is loaded with family history and precious memories. You see, it has been in her family since the 1930's.
I first saw Melissa's house featured on the Tiny House Blog and was instantly smitten with the cute 1916 cottage and the fact that Melissa inherited it from her grandmother. I contacted Melissa and asked her for more information. She not only had an amazing story to share, she had old family photos of the home.
I'll let Melissa tell the house's story in her own words…
Located in Denver, CO my house has so much rich family history! My grandparents moved into the house in 1936. They came from Corsica, SD and picked Colorado because the doctor said the climate would be good for my grandfather's asthma. They moved with my grandma's two sisters, and my uncle, who was an infant at them time. My Grandmother was also pregnant with their second child.
Previous to them moving in, the house only had 2 owners that I know of – the original builder and a lady who bought the house for rental property. Even that must be an interesting story – a lady in the early 30's owning property all around the Denver area as rental income! As far as I could tell she did not live in the house. My grandmother would tell me stories about how dirty the house was when they moved in. I guess no one had lived in it for a while! They quickly made it a home and began farming all the land around it. At the time, the railroad owned the land to the south and up until the early 80's they ran trains.


text:
The listed carbon neutral convention centre with its eye-catching exposed concrete architecture has been reopened since May 2012 after being fully refurbished in terms of energy efficiency and technical updates.
Modern energy management enables the centre to save 70% of energy through a solar power system, a biogas CHP plant and the first hydrogen oxygen fuel cell in a German convention centre.
The award-winning LED light installation highlights the breathtaking 70s concrete architecture inside and outside the building, stylish lounge furniture and art exhibitions generate a comfortable atmosphere. The contrasts between cold, hard concrete and warm, soft wood combined with the park scenery, the fanciful light sculpture and designer furniture create a unique setting for congresses, business events, concerts or trade fairs.
Alongside the big hall for up to 2,000 guests, we also provide a smaller concert and congress room for 330 people, two bright lounges with direct access to the Wittelsbacher Park and a 1,300 sqm exhibition area. Seven fully equipped smaller meeting rooms are perfect for workshops or press conferences for up to 140 people.


text:
< < > >
Barbie Basics™ Collection 002
This season, denim is all the fashion rage! And who better to rock the denim look than the Barbie Basics™ dolls?
Dolls of the World® — Asia
Japan Barbie® doll and Japan Ken® doll are the first and most fashion-forward couple to grace the Dolls Of The World line!


text:
Sunday on the Beach
Maurice Prendergast was one of the first Americans to use watercolor in a modernist manner, allowing passages of unpainted paper to play a role in the description of summarily described forms. Prendergast's style and his subjects were largely inspired by the French Post-Impressionist art he had encountered as a student in Paris in the early 1890s. His best-known theme was the modern pursuit of leisure by the middle classes, in parks and at beaches like this one near Boston.
- Artist: Maurice Brazil Prendergast, American, 1858-1924
- Medium: Watercolor on cream, moderately thick, moderately textured wove paper
- Dates: ca. 1896-1898
- Dimensions: 17 3/4 x 13 5/16 in. (45.1 x 33.8 cm) Frame: 21 1/2 x 16 3/8 x 1 1/2 in. (54.6 x 41.6 x 3.8 cm) (show scale)
- Signature: Signed lower left in black ink: "Prendergast"
- Collections:American Art
- Museum Location: This item is not on view
- Exhibitions:
- Accession Number: 65.204.9
- Credit Line: Gift of Daniel and Rita Fraad, Jr.
- Rights Statement: No known copyright restrictions
- Caption: Maurice Brazil Prendergast (American, 1858-1924). Sunday on the Beach, ca. 1896-1898. Watercolor on cream, moderately thick, moderately textured wove paper, 17 3/4 x 13 5/16 in. (45.1 x 33.8 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Daniel and Rita Fraad, Jr., 65.204.9
- Image:
- Record Completeness: Best (85%)


text:
From the stately Acropolis in Athens to a 21st-century reproduction of Michelangelo's David, nothing evokes ancient Greece more than white marble. The ideal of Western art, in its highest form, as being austere and color-free has been around since the Renaissance. When explorers unearthed ancient Mediterranean statuary, time and moisture had stripped the marble of its original paint, leaving the stone translucent, almost otherworldly. In its apparent aesthetic restraint, white marble seemed to embody the "pure" ideals of classical Greece: democracy, moderation, rational philosophical inquiry.
But new research is challenging this centuries-old assumption. "We have a vision of Greece as antiseptic; that people moved around in pristine white garments," says Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones, a lecturer in classics at the University of Edinburgh. "But Greece was a riot of color."
Nowhere is this historical reality check more vivid than "Gods in Color," a traveling exhibit that has stunned museum-goers and scholars around the world with its reconstructions of what newly painted marble might have looked like circa 500 B.C. Its curator, German archaeologist Vinzenz Brinkmann, has spent more than 25 years recovering the ancients' vibrant hues and patterns by means of ultraviolet light and other techniques. Brinkmann applied pigments to replicas of sculptures and architectural elements – then stood them next to the originals. The result has surprised even the experts.
"Scholars have long known about the colors of ancient sculpture," says Susanne Ebbinghaus, curator of ancient art at Harvard's Sackler Museum. "But there's a big difference between knowing it was painted and seeing it painted."
Take the Peplos Kore, a graceful statue from 530 B.C., long thought to represent a high-born maiden. Brinkmann's painstaking research revealed that elaborately colored images of lions, ibexes and sphinxes had once decorated the statue's tube-shaped outer skirt. This style of sheath, originally worn by Eastern rulers, was borrowed by the Greeks to depict their female deities. Color solved the mystery of the statue's identity: She's the goddess Artemis, not just a rich Athenian teenager.
Brinkmann's work shows how the ancients responded to the limitations of technology and environment with a surprisingly rich sense of polychromy (the use of multiple colors). In some ways, the infinite palette available in the modern world has diminished our appreciation for just how meaningful color can be.
"Given the past insistence on imagining Greece in black and white, color has great potential to individualize ancient clothing and culture – to help us see it as human, rather than humanist," says Liza Cleland, author of The Clothed Body in the Ancient World.
The early spectrum
"The first thing to remember is that the Greeks had no real fixatives," says Llewellyn-Jones. "There were no products that could keep a color stable." The technical challenges of dyeing clothes gave the Greeks a fascination with color change (both natural and man-made) and a conception of color very different from ours.
"Greek language used color in a fluid way," he explains. "What might be classified as 'red' could be anything from a light pink to almost purple. 'Green' encompassed shades of gray, blue and bottle green."
Achieving (and maintaining) vivid color in ancient Greece demanded expert skill, notes Cleland, so wearing intense hues usually meant you had the money to pay for them. The costliest color was known as Tyrian purple, a rare dye harvested from snails found off the coast of Phoenicia. When applied to textiles, the clear fluid turned fabric permanently purple. The color quickly became a favorite of royalty. (Pliny the Elder deemed that the ideal shade of purple should resemble "clotted blood.")
Color in daily life
Duller, "mixed" colors were more common for everyday use. The average Athenian wore unbleached garments or used saffron to give robes a warm yellow tint; colorful patterns often were woven in at the hem.
As a culture, Greece "placed high value on complexity, both intellectual and visual," says Cleland, so interaction between colors, as well as the use of pattern, was a way to flaunt style – and a sense of the sacred. Detailed temple records show that women about to be married would dedicate favorite garments to Artemis for good luck. Llewellyn-Jones is struck by how color-specific the items are: "'A mantle, blue, with a purple border. A small summer dress, yellow, with red dots. A cloak, frog green.'"
The Greeks also prized color in living spaces. In her pioneering work on domestic spaces, Ruth Westgate , a lecturer in ancient history and archaeology at Britain's Cardiff University, notes that the Greeks used dark blue and green pigments for paintings and mosaics in the "best rooms" that visitors would see.
Art and culture
The Greeks were highly sensitive to the role of light in color. "Plato talked about vision and color as 'fire entering the eyes,'" says Cleland. "It's important to remember that the bright sunlight of the Mediterranean climate gives a high level of tonal contrast." Artists used strong tones to ensure maximum visual impact.
"Color in architecture enhanced simple visibility, and picked out sculptural details that might have otherwise been lost to distance," she says. The wildly decorated frieze of the Siphnian Treasury in Delphi, for example, would have been high on the building, so its strongly contrasting colors helped viewers at ground level see all the details.
No less an authority than Leonardo da Vinci declared that sculptors shouldn't concern themselves with color. But ancient sculptures were designed to captivate, to create an occasion.
"In ancient villas people would stroll around and stop at a statue of a philosopher or mythic hero and use the artwork as a jumping-off point for a debate or discussion," explains Kenneth Lapatin, associate curator of antiquities at the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles.
That experience was intensified in religious spaces. Lapatin cites the impact of the ivory and gold statue of Zeus in the temple at Olympus, known as one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
"This wasn't like seeing Michelangelo's David in a museum," says Lapatin. "You'd enter into a dark sanctuary. There was music, incense burning. In the half-light, the gold would reflect off surfaces. If you normally lived in a simple, slightly dirty place, this kind of experience would be an epiphany. The artist even played games with proportion. Zeus was too big – if the statue stood up, it would break through the roof. But that was, of course, intentional. Is there an equivalent today? Maybe the latest Star Wars. But even that experience is virtual."
Color represents what has been missing in our portrait of ancient Greece: a complex civilization with a deep appreciation of sensual beauty and festival. "In some ways we made the Greeks better than they were, but also less exciting," says Ebbinghaus. "I'm reminded of my parents' resistance to switching to color television. 'You can imagine so much more in black and white,' they'd say. The more fragmentary something is, the bigger the surface it offers for projection."
Lapatin agrees: "Classical art still carries such a charge. If we're going to successfully interrogate our own culture's values, it's important to examine their underpinnings."
The 'reel' Greece?
Hollywood has often turned to the ancient world for inspiration, with varying results. Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones, who served as a consultant to Oliver Stone's Alexander, admired the film's commitment to historical accuracy – with one exception: the costumes worn by Angelina Jolie, who played Alexander's mother.
"We had her in the appropriate clothes, loose linens fastened with pins and brooches. She deemed them too frumpy and had costume designer Jenny Beavan create something with more, shall we say, Christian Dior tailoring." He laughs. "History or no history, a star still has the power to dictate her look."
Color symbolism in ancient Greece
- Red:A transitional color, indicating a change in life status. Boys on the threshold of becoming men wore red cloaks. Brides wore red veils. Death shrouds were red.
- Black:Worn for mourning, but also to draw attention to the mourner's social status. "True blacks were hard to achieve," says Llewellyn-Jones. "You often see the term 'thrice-dyed' to describe deep black."
- Purple:Indicated royalty or high rank, due to the rarity of purple dye. Alexander the Great was fond of wearing purple from head to toe.
- White: As much a state of being as a color; the ancients used the word to designate youthful or feminine, pale skin.


text:
Main Content
This item ships within one business day.
$4.99 flat rate shipping. See other shipping options.
It's early Sunday morning in your man cave (aka Senators Central) and you're sitting in your vintage recliner pondering the next piece of memorabilia to add to your collection. You already have replica jerseys, tons of caps and even a piece of ice from Scotiabank Place safely tucked away in your freezer — your walls are strangely bare though. Eureka! Trim the bulwarks of your man cave with plenty of Ottawa flair with this 22" x 34" poster! This ready-to-hang poster features a team logo graphic printed on its surface, making it an easy way to add yet another piece of team spirit to your man cave.
- Made in the USA
- Officially licensed Senators poster
- Ready to hang
Special event items are produced by manufacturers only after the outcome of a game or event. These are advanced sale items and will ship immediately after they are received in our warehouse.
Manufacturer direct items are shipped directly from the manufacturer. These items are not available for international or expedited shipping.
Customized items can be personalized with options such as your name, your favorite number, and/or designs. Some options may be limited by league rules.


text:
Tuesday 10 June 2014
3i Group plc - portfolio company site visit
Presentation materials used for the site visit at Action.
Thursday 26 September 2013
BAML 18th Annual Banking and Insurance CEO Conference
3i presented on its restructuring and strategic plan
Tuesday 24 September 2013
3i Private Equity Capital Markets Seminar
The seminar included presentations on two of 3i's Private Equity portfolio investments, Element Materials Technology and Action.
Friday 29 June 2012
Investor meeting
The purpose of the meeting is for 3i's new Chief Executive, Simon Borrows, to set out his strategic agenda relating to the company's investment strategy, asset management capabilities, and its strategy for managing operating costs and the balance sheet.


text:
Recently Added Items
You have no items in your shopping cart.
Take your camera for a dive and capture amazing underwater pictures. Choose an underwater housing for your camera.
Items: 1-60 of 77
Currently Shopping by:
Shopping Options
© 2015 Olympus America Inc. | Jul 04, 2015 | Privacy Statement | Terms of Use
facebook tweeter YouTube InstaGrid PenReady Flickr Google Plus Pintrest


text:
false pdp {"scheme":"product1_cr"}
false pdp {"scheme":"product2_cr"}
Rated 4.3 out of 5 by 22 reviewers.
Rated 5 out of 5 by Bookworm3880 VERY SATISFIED OVERALL My purchase was easy. I received my order promptly. Set up was easy.. OH MY GOSH IT'S BEAUTIFUL.. Pros: IMPROVEMENTS made the purchase process simple. : Makes Christmas decorating a snap. : LED's put on a traffic stopping show of Christmas colors. Cons: IMPROVEMENTS sent me a 20% off coupon with my order. That would have saved big $ on this purchase? MOTIVE? :( : Remote control came with no directions. OVERALL I AM VERY PLEASED WITH MY FIRST PURCHASE November 21, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by LoveInflatables Very large and beautiful!! Love the color wave lighting! This tree is really large and is true to product specifications. I bought it to display next Christmas, so can't say how well it will stay up when it's windy, but it seems to be very well made and has places to tether it with a well weighted stand. It will definitely be worth the effort if I have to add weight to the stand or more tethering. Love the color changing!! I only turned it on to test it during the day and haven't seen it at night. It is white in color and I'm hoping the color of the lights will light the whole thing up at night. I ordered several other things and they were packaged well, I received them quickly, and I will definitely order from Improvements again! January 9, 2014
Rated 5 out of 5 by JJschristmas Looks GREAT!!! Haven't opened yet, but looking forward to putting it out next year for Christmas January 24, 2014
Rated 5 out of 5 by RickDean They are wonderful We got 4 of them for a 13 year old birthday theme Candy Land and they work great! We are really happy with them! November 13, 2014
2 Questions : 2 Answers
Get help about this item from fellow customers. Ask your questions. Share your answers.
Helpful hint: you'll find product measurements, dimensions and related information under the Specifications and Instructions tabs above.
« Back
Has staff answer
1 answer
tree ?
can this tree be plugged into an outdoor timer and will it turn on with the timer or will i have to turn in on with the remote everyday?
1 year, 6 months ago
Additional information about kerryaa could not be loaded.
0out of 0found this question helpful.
Was this helpful?helpful0unhelpful0https://answers.improvementscatalog.com/answers/0048-en_us/product/418442/question/1688904/undohelpfulness.djs?format=embeddedhtml&sessionparams=__BVSESSIONPARAMS__&return=__RETURN__&innerreturn=https%3A%2F%2Fanswers.improvementscatalog.com%2Fanswers%2F0048-en_us%2Fproduct%2F418442%2Fquestions.djs%3Fformat%3Dembeddedhtml%26scrolltotop%3Dtrue%26expandquestion%3D1688904&user=__USERID__&authsourcetype=__AUTHTYPE__&submissionparams=__BVSUBMISSIONPARAMETERS__&submissionurl=__BVSUBMISSIONURL__
1 Person needs an answerI have this question too
Answer:Thank you for your question. The Giant Inflatable Color Changing Christmas Tree will turn on and will blow up each day with the timer, but the customer will have to use the remote to change the colors. When it blows up it will be on the color changing mode and the customer will have to use the remote to change to the other color functions.
1 year, 6 months ago
Cleveland, OH
Additional information about BuyingStaff could not be loaded.
0out of 0found this answer helpful.
Was this helpful?helpful0unhelpful0https://answers.improvementscatalog.com/answers/0048-en_us/product/418442/answer/1578553/undohelpfulness.djs?format=embeddedhtml&sessionparams=__BVSESSIONPARAMS__&return=__RETURN__&innerreturn=https%3A%2F%2Fanswers.improvementscatalog.com%2Fanswers%2F0048-en_us%2Fproduct%2F418442%2Fquestions.djs%3Fformat%3Dembeddedhtml%26scrolltotop%3Dtrue%26expandquestion%3D1688904%26expandanswer%3D1578553&user=__USERID__&authsourcetype=__AUTHTYPE__&submissionparams=__BVSUBMISSIONPARAMETERS__&submissionurl=__BVSUBMISSIONURL__
Has staff answer
1 answer
What type of lights are used on the tree
1 year, 6 months ago
Additional information about vlgreen could not be loaded.
0out of 0found this question helpful.
Was this helpful?helpful0unhelpful0https://answers.improvementscatalog.com/answers/0048-en_us/product/418442/question/1706920/undohelpfulness.djs?format=embeddedhtml&sessionparams=__BVSESSIONPARAMS__&return=__RETURN__&innerreturn=https%3A%2F%2Fanswers.improvementscatalog.com%2Fanswers%2F0048-en_us%2Fproduct%2F418442%2Fquestions.djs%3Fformat%3Dembeddedhtml%26scrolltotop%3Dtrue%26expandquestion%3D1706920&user=__USERID__&authsourcetype=__AUTHTYPE__&submissionparams=__BVSUBMISSIONPARAMETERS__&submissionurl=__BVSUBMISSIONURL__
1 Person needs an answerI have this question too
Answer:Thank you for your question, The lights used on the Giant Inflatable Color Changing Christmas Trees are LED.
1 year, 3 months ago
Cleveland, OH
Additional information about BuyingStaff could not be loaded.
0out of 0found this answer helpful.
Was this helpful?helpful0unhelpful0https://answers.improvementscatalog.com/answers/0048-en_us/product/418442/answer/1706887/undohelpfulness.djs?format=embeddedhtml&sessionparams=__BVSESSIONPARAMS__&return=__RETURN__&innerreturn=https%3A%2F%2Fanswers.improvementscatalog.com%2Fanswers%2F0048-en_us%2Fproduct%2F418442%2Fquestions.djs%3Fformat%3Dembeddedhtml%26scrolltotop%3Dtrue%26expandquestion%3D1706920%26expandanswer%3D1706887&user=__USERID__&authsourcetype=__AUTHTYPE__&submissionparams=__BVSUBMISSIONPARAMETERS__&submissionurl=__BVSUBMISSIONURL__
1 of 1
1 of 1
Product:418442-Giant Inflatable Color Changing Christmas Tree


text:
Allosaurus was a large bipedal predator with a large skull, equipped with dozens of large, sharp teeth. It averaged 8.5 meters (30 ft) in length, though fragmentary remains suggest it could have reached over 12 meters (39 ft). Relative to its large and powerful hind legs its three-fingered forearms were small but longer than that of the Tyrannosaurus Rex. They were also large enough to hold its prey while clamping down on the body with its massive jaws and pushing away with one foot in order to tear away chunks of flesh. The body was balanced by a long, heavy tail. It is classified as an allosaurid, a type of carnosaurian theropod dinosaur. The genus has a complicated taxonomy, and includes an uncertain number of valid species, the best known of which is A. fragilis. The bulk of Allosaurus remains have come from North America's Morrison Formation, with material also from Portugal and possibly Tanzania. It was known for over half of the 20th century as Antrodemus, but study of the copious remains from the Cleveland Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry brought the name Allosaurus back to prominence, and established it as one of the best-known dinosaurs.
As the prominent large predator in the Morrison Formation, Allosaurus was at the top of the food chain, probably preying on contemporaneous large herbivorous dinosaurs. Potential prey included ornithopods, stegosaurids, and sauropods. While it is often thought of as preying on sauropod dinosaurs in groups, there is little evidence for cooperative social behavior in this genus, and individuals may have been aggressive toward each other instead. It may have attacked large prey by ambush, using its upper jaws like a hatchet.
Allosaurus was a typical large theropod, having a massive skull on a short neck, a long tail and reduced forelimbs. Allosaurus fragilis, the best-known species, had an average length of 8.5 meters (28 ft), with the largest definitive Allosaurus specimen (AMNH 680) estimated at 9.7 meters long (32 ft), and an estimated weight of 2.3 metric tons (2.5 short tons). In his 1976 monograph on Allosaurus, James Madsen mentioned a range of bone sizes which he interpreted to show a maximum length of 12 to 13 meters (40 to 43 ft). As with dinosaurs in general, weight estimates are debatable, and since 1980 have ranged between 1500 kilograms (3300 lb), 1000 to 4000 kilograms (2200 to 8800 lb), and 1010 kilograms (2230 lb) for modal adult weight (not maximum). John Foster, a specialist on the Morrison Formation, suggests that 1000 kg (2200 lb) is reasonable for large adults of A. fragilis, but that 700 kg (1500 lb) is a closer estimate for individuals represented by the average-sized thigh bones he has measured.
Several gigantic specimens have been attributed to Allosaurus, but may in fact belong to other genera. The closely related genus Saurophaganax (OMNH 1708) reached perhaps 10.9 meters (36 ft) in length, and its single species has sometimes been included in the genus Allosaurus as Allosaurus maximus, though recent studies support it as a separate genus. Another potential specimen of Allosaurus, once assigned to the genus Epanterias (AMNH 5767), may have measured 12.1 meters in length (40 ft). A more recent discovery is a partial skeleton from the Peterson Quarry in Morrison rocks of New Mexico; this large allosaurid may be another individual of Saurophaganx.
The skull had a pair of horns above and in front of the eyes. These horns were composed of extensions of the lacrimal bones, and varied in shape and size. There were also lower paired ridges running along the top edges of the nasal bones that led into the horns. The horns were probably covered in a keratin sheath and may have had a variety of functions, including acting as sunshades for the eye, being used for display, and being used in combat against other members of the same species (although they were fragile). There was a ridge along the back of the skull roof for muscle attachment, as is also seen in tyrannosaurids.
Inside the lacrimal bones were depressions that may have held glands, such as salt glands. Within the maxillae were sinuses that were better developed than those of more basal theropods such as Ceratosaurus and Marshosaurus; they may have been related to the sense of smell, perhaps holding something like Jacobson's organ. The roof of the braincase was thin, perhaps to improve thermoregulation for the brain. The skull and lower jaws had joints that permitted motion within these units. In the lower jaws, the bones of the front and back halves loosely articulated, permitting the jaws to bow outward and increasing the animal's gape. The braincase and frontals may also have had a joint.
Allosaurus had nine vertebrae in the neck, fourteen in the back, and five in the sacrum supporting the hips. The number of tail vertebrae is unknown and varied with individual size; James Madsen estimated about 50, while Gregory S. Paul considered that to be too many and suggested 45 or less. There were hollow spaces in the neck and anterior back vertebrae. Such spaces, which are also found in modern theropods (that is, the birds), are interpreted as having held air sacs used in respiration. The rib cage was broad, giving it a barrel chest, especially in comparison to less derived theropods like Ceratosaurus. Allosaurus had gastralia (belly ribs), but these are not common findings, and they may have ossified poorly. In one published case, the gastralia show evidence of injury during life. A furcula (wishbone) was also present, but has only been recognized since 1996; in some cases furculae were confused with gastralia. The ilium, the main hip bone, was massive, and the pubic bone had a prominent foot that may have been used for both muscle attachment and as a prop for resting the body on the ground. Madsen noted that in about half of the individuals from the Cleveland Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry, independent of size, the pubes had not fused to each other at their foot ends. He suggested that this was a sexual characteristic, with females lacking fused bones to make egg-laying easier. This proposal has not attracted further attention, however.
The forelimbs of Allosaurus were short in comparison to the hindlimbs (only about 35% the length of the hindlimbs in adults) and had three fingers per hand, tipped with large, strongly curved and pointed claws. The arms were powerful, and the forearm was somewhat shorter than the upper arm (1:1.2 humerus/ulna ratio). The wrist had a version of the semilunate carpal also found in more derived theropods like maniraptorans. Of the three fingers, the innermost (or thumb) was the largest, and diverged from the others. The legs were not as long or suited for speed as those of tyrannosaurids, and the claws of the toes were less developed and more hoof-like than those of earlier theropods. Each foot had three weight-bearing toes and an inner dewclaw, which Madsen suggested could have been used for grasping in juveniles. There was also what is interpreted as the splint-like remnant of a fifth (outermost) metatarsal, perhaps used as a lever between the Achilles tendon and foot.
Allosaurus was an allosaurid, a member of a family of large theropods within the larger group Carnosauria. The family name Allosauridae was created for this genus in 1878 by Othniel Charles Marsh, but the term was largely unused until the 1970s in favor of Megalosauridae, another family of large theropods that eventually became a wastebasket taxon. This, along with the use of Antrodemus for Allosaurus during the same period, is a point that needs to be remembered when searching for information on Allosaurus in publications that predate James Madsen's 1976 monograph. Major publications using the name Megalosauridae instead of Allosauridae include Gilmore, 1920, von Huene, 1926, Romer, 1956 and 1966, Steel, 1970, and Walker, 1964.
Following the publication of Madsen's influential monograph, Allosauridae became the preferred family assignment, but it too was not strongly defined. Semi-technical works used Allosauridae for a variety of large theropods, usually those that were larger and better-known than megalosaurids. Typical theropods that were thought to be related to Allosaurus included Indosaurus, Piatnitzkysaurus, Piveteausaurus, Yangchuanosaurus, Acrocanthosaurus, Chilantaisaurus, Compsosuchus, Stokesosaurus, and Szechuanosaurus. Given modern knowledge of theropod diversity and the advent of cladistic study of evolutionary relationships, none of these theropods is now recognized as an allosaurid, although several, like Acrocanthosaurus and Yangchuanosaurus, are members of related families.
Allosauridae is one of three families in Carnosauria; the other two are Carcharodontosauridae and Sinraptoridae. Allosauridae has at times been proposed as ancestral to the Tyrannosauridae (which would make it paraphyletic), one recent example in Gregory S. Paul's Predatory Dinosaurs of the World, but this has been rejected, with tyrannosaurids identified as members of a separate branch of theropods, the Coelurosauria. Allosauridae is the smallest of the carnosaur families, with only Saurophaganax and a currently unnamed French allosauroid accepted as possible valid genera besides Allosaurus in the most recent review. Another genus, Epanterias, is a potential valid member, but it and Saurophaganax may turn out to be large examples of Allosaurus. Recent reviews have kept the genus Saurophaganax and included Epanterias with Allosaurus.
Allosaurus itself is based on YPM 1930, a small collection of fragmentary bones including parts of three vertebrae, a rib fragment, a tooth, a toe bone, and, most useful for later discussions, the shaft of the right humerus (upper arm). Othniel Charles Marsh gave these remains the formal name Allosaurus fragilis in 1877. Allosaurus comes from the Greek allos/αλλος, meaning "strange" or "different" and saurus/σαυρος, meaning "lizard" or "reptile". It was named 'different lizard' because its vertebrae were different from those of other dinosaurs known at the time of its discovery. The species epithet fragilis is Latin for "fragile", referring to lightening features in the vertebrae. The bones were collected from the Morrison Formation of Garden Park, north of Cañon City. Marsh and Edward Drinker Cope, who were in scientific competition, went on to coin several other genera based on similarly sparse material that would later figure in the taxonomy of Allosaurus. These include Marsh's Creosaurus and Labrosaurus, and Cope's Epanterias.
In their haste, Cope and Marsh did not always follow up on their discoveries (or, more commonly, those made by their subordinates). For example, after the discovery by Benjamin Mudge of the type specimen of Allosaurus in Colorado, Marsh elected to concentrate work in Wyoming; when work resumed at Garden Park in 1883, M. P. Felch found an almost complete Allosaurus and several partial skeletons. In addition, one of Cope's collectors, H. F. Hubbell, found a specimen in the Como Bluff area of Wyoming in 1879, but apparently did not mention its completeness, and Cope never unpacked it. Upon unpacking in 1903 (several years after Cope had died), it was found to be one of the most complete theropod specimens then known, and in 1908 the skeleton, now cataloged as AMNH 5753, was put on public view. This is the well-known mount poised over a partial Apatosaurus skeleton as if scavenging it, illustrated as such by Charles R. Knight. Although notable as the first free-standing mount of a theropod dinosaur, and often illustrated and photographed, it has never been scientifically described. The multiplicity of early names complicated later research, with the situation compounded by the terse descriptions provided by Marsh and Cope. Even at the time, authors such as Samuel Wendell Williston suggested that too many names had been coined. For example, Williston pointed out in 1901 that Marsh had never been able to adequately distinguish Allosaurus from Creosaurus. The most influential early attempt to sort out the convoluted situation was produced by Charles W. Gilmore in 1920. He came to the conclusion that the tail vertebra dubbed Antrodemus by Leidy was indistinguishable from those of Allosaurus, and Antrodemus thus should be the preferred name because as the older name it had priority. Antrodemus became the accepted name for this familiar genus for over fifty years, until James Madsen published on the Cleveland-Lloyd specimens and concluded that Allosaurus should be used because Antrodemus was based on material with poor, if any, diagnostic features and locality information (for example, the geological formation that the single bone of Antrodemus came from is unknown). "Antrodemus" has been used informally for convenience when distinguishing between the skull Gilmore restored and the composite skull restored by Madsen.
The period since Madsen's monograph has been marked by a great expansion in studies dealing with topics concerning Allosaurus in life (paleobiological and paleoecological topics). Such studies have covered topics including skeletal variation, growth, skull construction, hunting methods, the brain, and the possibility of gregarious living and parental care. Reanalysis of old material (particularly of large 'allosaur' specimens), new discoveries in Portugal, and several very complete new specimens have also contributed to the growing knowledge base.
The completeness, preservation, and scientific importance of this skeleton gave "Big Al" its name; the individual itself was below the average size for Allosaurus fragilis, and was a subadult estimated at only 87% grown. The specimen was described by Breithaupt in 1996. Nineteen of its bones were broken or showed signs of infection, which may have contributed to "Big Al"'s death. Pathologic bones included five ribs, five vertebrae, and four bones of the feet; several damaged bones showed osteomyelitis, a bone infection. A particular problem for the living animal was infection and trauma to the right foot that probably affected movement and may have also predisposed the other foot to injury because of a change in gait.
It is unclear how many species of Allosaurus there were. Seven species have been considered potentially valid since 1988 (A. amplexus, A. atrox, A. europaeus, the type species A. fragilis, the as-yet not formally described "A. jimmadseni", A. maximus, and A. tendagurensis), although only a fraction are usually considered valid at any given time. Additionally, there are at least ten dubious or undescribed species that have been assigned to Allosaurus over the years, along with the species belonging to genera now sunk into Allosaurus. In the most recent review of basal tetanuran theropods, only A. fragilis (including A. amplexus and A. atrox as synonyms), "A. jimmadseni" (as an unnamed species), and A. tendagurensis were accepted as potentially valid species, with A. europaeus not yet proposed and A. maximus assigned to Saurophaganax.
A. amplexus, A. atrox, A. fragilis, "A. jimmadseni", and A. maximus are all known from remains discovered in the Kimmeridgian–Tithonian Upper Jurassic-age Morrison Formation of the United States, spread across the states of Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. A. fragilis is regarded as the most common, known from the remains of at least sixty individuals. Debate has gone on since the 1980s regarding the possibility that there are two common Morrison Formation species of Allosaurus, with the second known as A. atrox; recent work has followed a "one species" interpretation, with the differences seen in the Morrison Formation material attributed to individual variation. A. europaeus was found in the Kimmeridgian-age Porto Novo Member of the Lourinhã Formation, but may be the same as A. fragilis. A. tendagurensis was found in Kimmeridgian-age rocks of Tendaguru, in Mtwara, Tanzania. Although the most recent review tentatively accepted it as a valid species of Allosaurus, it may be a more basal tetanuran, or simply a dubious theropod. Although obscure, it was a large theropod, possibly around 10 meters long (33 ft) and 2.5 metric tons (2.8 short tons) in weight.
Allosaurus is regarded as a probable synonym of the genera Antrodemus, Creosaurus, Epanterias, and Labrosaurus. Most of the species that are regarded as synonyms of A. fragilis, or that were misassigned to the genus, are obscure and were based on scrappy remains. One exception is Labrosaurus ferox, named in 1884 by Marsh for an oddly formed partial lower jaw, with a prominent gap in the tooth row at the tip of the jaw, and a rear section greatly expanded and turned down. Later researchers suggested that the bone was pathologic, showing an injury to the living animal, and that part of the unusual form of the rear of the bone was due to plaster reconstruction. It is now regarded as an example of A. fragilis. Other remains thought to pertain to Allosaurus have come from across the world, including Australia, Siberia, and Switzerland, but these fossils have been reassessed as belonging to other dinosaurs.
Allosaurus was the most common large theropod in the vast tract of Western American fossil-bearing rock known as the Morrison Formation, accounting for 70 to 75% of theropod specimens, and as such was at the top trophic level of the Morrison food web. The Morrison Formation is interpreted as a semiarid environment with distinct wet and dry seasons, and flat floodplains. Vegetation varied from river-lining forests of conifers, tree ferns, and ferns, to fern savannas with rare trees.
The Morrison Formation has been a rich fossil hunting ground, holding fossils of green alage, fungi, mosses, horsetails, ferns, cycads, ginkgoes, and several families of conifers. Other fossils discovered include bivalves, snails, ray-finned fishes, frogs, salamanders, turtles, sphenodonts, lizards, terrestrial and aquatic crocodylomorphans, several species of pterosaur, numerous dinosaur species, and early mammals such as docodonts, multituberculates, symmetrodonts, and triconodonts. Such dinosaurs as the theropods Ceratosaurus, Ornitholestes, and Torvosaurus, the sauropods Apatosaurus, Brachiosaurus, Camarasaurus, and Diplodocus, and the ornithischians Camptosaurus, Dryosaurus, and Stegosaurus are known from the Morrison. The Late Jurassic formations of Portugal where Allosaurus is present are interpreted as having been similar to the Morrison but with a stronger marine influence. Many of the dinosaurs of the Morrison Formation are the same genera as those seen in Portuguese rocks (mainly Allosaurus, Ceratosaurus, Torvosaurus, and Apatosaurus), or have a close counterpart (Brachiosaurus and Lusotitan, Camptosaurus and Draconyx).
Allosaurus coexisted with fellow large theropods Ceratosaurus and Torvosaurus in both the United States and Portugal, The three appear to have had different ecological niches, based on anatomy and the location of fossils. Ceratosaurs and torvosaurs may have preferred to be active around waterways, and had lower, thinner bodies that would have given them an advantage in forest and underbrush terrains, whereas allosaurs were more compact, with longer legs, faster but less maneuverable, and seem to have preferred dry floodplains. Ceratosaurus, better known than Torvosaurus, differed noticeably from Allosaurus in functional anatomy by having a taller, narrower skull with large, broad teeth. Allosaurus was itself a potential food item to other carnivores, as illustrated by an Allosaurus pubic foot marked by the teeth of another theropod, probably Ceratosaurus or Torvosaurus. The location of the bone in the body (along the bottom margin of the torso and partially shielded by the legs), and the fact that it was among the most massive in the skeleton, indicates that the Allosaurus was being scavenged.
Medullary bone tissue, also found in dinosaurs as diverse as Tyrannosaurus and Tenontosaurus, has been found in at least one Allosaurus specimen, a shin bone from the Cleveland-Lloyd Quarry. Today, this bone tissue is only formed in female birds that are laying eggs, as it is used to supply calcium to shells. Its presence in the Allosaurus individual establishes sex and shows she had reached reproductive age. By counting growth lines, it was shown that she was 10 years old at death, so sexual maturity in Allosaurus was attained well before maximum growth and size.
The discovery of a juvenile specimen with a nearly complete hindlimb shows that the legs were relatively longer in juveniles, and the lower segments of the leg (shin and foot) were relatively longer than the thigh. These differences suggest that younger Allosaurus were faster and had different hunting strategies than adults, perhaps chasing small prey as juveniles, then becoming ambush hunters of large prey upon adulthood. The thigh bone became thicker and wider during growth, and the cross-section less circular, as muscle attachments shifted, muscles became shorter, and the growth of the leg slowed. These changes imply that juvenile legs has less predictable stresses compared with adults, which would have moved with more regular forward progression.
Similar conclusions were drawn by another study using finite element analysis on an Allosaurus skull. According to their biomechanical analysis, the skull was very strong but had a relatively small bite force. By using jaw muscles only, it could produce a bite force of 805 to 2,148 N, less than the values for alligators (13,000 N), lions (4,167 N), and leopards (2,268 N), but the skull could withstand nearly 55,500 N of vertical force against the tooth row. The authors suggested that Allosaurus used its skull like a hatchet against prey, attacking open-mouthed, slashing flesh with its teeth, and tearing it away without splintering bones, unlike Tyrannosaurus, which is thought to have been capable of damaging bones. They also suggested that the architecture of the skull could have permitted the use of different strategies against different prey; the skull was light enough to allow attacks on smaller and more agile ornithopods, but strong enough for high-impact ambush attacks against larger prey like stegosaurids and sauropods. Their interpretations were challenged by other researchers, who found no modern analogues to a hatchet attack and considered it more likely that the skull was strong to compensate for its open construction when absorbing the stresses from struggling prey. The original authors noted that Allosaurus itself has no modern equivalent, that the tooth row is well-suited to such an attack, and that articulations in the skull cited by their detractors as problematic actually helped protect the palate and lessen stress. Another possibility for handling large prey is that theropods like Allosaurus were "flesh grazers" which could take bites of flesh out of living sauropods that were sufficient to sustain the predator so it would not have needed to expend the effort to kill the prey outright. This strategy would also potentially have allowed the prey to recover and be fed upon in a similar way later. An additional suggestion notes that ornithopods were the most common available dinosaurian prey, and that allosaurs may have subdued them by using an attack similar to that of modern big cats: grasping the prey with their forelimbs, and then making multiple bites on the throat to crush the trachea. This is compatible with other evidence that the forelimbs were strong and capable of restraining prey.
Other aspects of feeding include the eyes, arms, and legs. The shape of the skull of Allosaurus limited potential binocular vision to 20° of width, slightly less than that of modern crocodilians. As with crocodilians, this may have been enough to judge prey distance and time attacks. The arms, compared with those of other theropods, were suited for both grasping prey at a distance or clutching it close, and the articulation of the claws suggests that they could have been used to hook things. Finally, the top speed of Allosaurus has been estimated at 30 to 55 kilometers per hour (19 to 34 miles per hour).
Although Allosaurus may have hunted in packs, recent research suggests that Allosaurus and other theropods were like other diapsids and had largely aggressive instead of cooperative interactions with other members of their own species. One study noted cooperative hunting of prey much larger than an individual predator, as is commonly inferred for theropod dinosaurs, is rare among vertebrates in general, and modern diapsids (including lizards, crocodiles, and birds) very rarely cooperate to hunt in such a way. Many modern diapsid predators are territorial and will kill and cannibalize intruders of the same species, and will also do the same to smaller individuals that attempt to eat before them when aggregated at feeding sites. This suggests that, for example, the Cleveland-Lloyd quarry shows Allosaurus individuals were drawn together to feed on other disabled or dead allosaurs, and sometimes were killed in the process, thus accumulating. This could explain the high proportion of juvenile and subadult allosaurs present, as juveniles and subadults are disproportionally killed at modern group feeding sites of animals like crocodiles and komodo dragons. The same interpretation applies to Bakker's lair sites. There is some evidence for cannibalism in Allosaurus, including Allosaurus shed teeth found among rib fragments, possible tooth marks on a shoulder blade, and cannibalized allosaur skeletons among the bones at Bakker's lair sites.
Along with Tyrannosaurus, Allosaurus has come to represent the quintessential large, carnivorous dinosaur in popular culture. It is a common dinosaur in museums, due in particular to the excavations at the Cleveland Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry; by 1976, as a result of cooperative operations, 38 museums in eight countries on three continents had Cleveland-Lloyd allosaur material or casts. Allosaurus is the official state fossil of Utah.
Allosaurus has been depicted in popular culture since the early years of the 20th century. It is top predator in both Arthur Conan Doyle's 1912 novel, The Lost World, and the 1925 film adaptation, the first full-length motion picture to feature dinosaurs (it is not to be confused with Tyrannosaurus, which also appears in the film). It later became the starring dinosaur of the 1956 film The Beast of Hollow Mountain, and the 1969 film The Valley of Gwangi, two genre combinations of living dinosaurs with Westerns. In The Valley of Gwangi, Gwangi is billed as an Allosaurus, although Ray Harryhausen based his model for the creature on Charles R. Knight's depiction of a Tyrannosaurus. Harryhausen sometimes confuses the two, stating in a DVD interview "They're both meat eaters, they're both tyrants... one was just a bit larger than the other. In nonfictional presentations, Allosaurus appears in the second and fifth episodes of the BBC television series Walking with Dinosaurs, and the Walking with Dinosaurs special The Ballad of Big Al chronicles the life of the Allosaurus specimen nicknamed "Big Al".


text:
This is hands down my favorite quilt yet. FAVORITE. I love this fabric. I knew I wanted to make a modern looking quilt with this Joel Dewberry line, but I couldn't make up my mind on the design until I started cutting the fat quarters into strips and going for it....which is scary. I used 8 fat quarters total, not counting the white fabric. I used EVERY last piece of the fabric down to the last tiny strip!
I had the picture of this in my head, and I was nervous once I started cutting up all my fabric that it would be a total wreck….lucky for me it turned out or I would have been one grumpy momma! The finished blocks are all 9 inches square, and I think that its 60 in. by 77 in.
P.S. I just want to say Thank You for all your sweet comments and encouragement. I wish I could reply and chat with you ALL....but that would require neglecting my children and well...I like my kids (for now). :)


text:
Spaces @ OCLS
Need a convenient space to create, collaborate, or converse with a client? The library offers a variety of spaces you can utilize to plan and run your business.
- Meeting RoomsMeeting Rooms are available for booking at all OCLS locations at $10 per hour or portion thereof.
- The Dorothy Lumley Melrose CenterThe Dorothy Lumley Melrose Center has been designed with collaboration and sharing in mind.
- Co-Working RoomAt the Orlando Public Library in downtown Orlando and is equipped with two tables, 12 chairs, a white board, an LCD TV, and telephone for out-going local and toll-free phone calls.
- Study Rooms @ the Orlando Public LibraryAll library study rooms require a reservation.
This guide is not intended to give legal or binding advice on creating your own business. It is intended to be a helpful starting point highlighting resources the library has that can help you to start and grow your business. Find additional information/sources for advice by visiting our "Community Resources" page.
Getting Started
The Small Business Start-Up Kit
Call Number: 346.0652 PAK
The Small Business Start-Up Kit shows you how to set up a small business in your state, quickly and efficiently clearing bureaucratic hurdles along the way.
These resources can help you get started, all with your library card!
- Treehouse Start your business with Treehouse! Course tracks for starting your own business and developing your own website are available with your library card.
- Business Plans Online - Real Plans that WORK Starting a business and need a plan? Here is a collection of successful business plans compiled by entrepreneurs seeking funds for small businesses throughout North America.
- Small Business Resource Center Offers resources and information about starting and operating a business. Topics include business plans, accounting, taxation, human resources, management and more.
Reference Librarian
Contact Info
Send Email
Profile & Guides


text:
as the great Bob the Builder once said, "Yes We Can!"
- Article | 8 hours ago BlackBerry Beta Zone app updated once again to fix jumpy surveys
- Article | 9 hours ago Bug fixes, improvements, and a new floating button arrive in PushPlane - 150 copies up for grabs
- Article | 16 hours ago BlackBerry Z30 Transform Hardshell Cases are 58% off today!
- Article | 1 day ago BlackBerry 'Dallas' and 'Venice' appear on India import records
- Article | 1 day ago Zeus Browser brings Adobe Flash support back to your BlackBerry 10 smartphone


text:
Forget Password or Username?
sign in sign up
Point For Gold Login Out
Buy Now
Yesterday, I got three Kite Fortunes in the game. I think I am a lucky boy. What makes me unexpected is that it is empty when I open it. Therefore, I think that I must come across a Karma bug. I feel a bit of depression. What is wrong with GW2 developers?
The feeling is really awesome to jump on my gold storage. I think I do need to buy gold within a week. And I receive some free coupons in your website. I just want to say you are really great people. I am very pleasant with my order here.
Last time, I came across a champion in the game. I must admit that I really want to get crafting materials, unique skins, lodestones and more from it. I had tried many times to kill him. But I failed again and again. So I sign that solo playing to a champion is really quite depressing. Is the only way to kill him group battle? Can you give me some advice?
In the following second half of 2013, some new skills and traits will be added to each profession on condition that a series of contents and options can be unlocked. I think I can expand my characters and builds. So I hope that I can find some new guides in your store. For me, your guides are quite useful.
At first, I can not remember the correct account password, which makes me depressed. Then I turn to Live Chat for help. They are really good girls. They help me patiently. After a long time, I succeeded in finding out my password. Although it is a pretty thing, it really touched me. Thanks!
Your store can always give us the latest guides about GW2. In fact, I appreciate that you strive to make the website perfect. At the same time, I can benefit a lot from your guides. I hope that you can do better in the future. I will often come to patronize your store.
With the popularity of Guild Wars 2, more and more online stores begin to sell GW2 gold. But not every of them are legit. After several times buying gold in yours store, I find that you have a reliable source and the price is relatively cheaper. I think I find a high-reputation store.
s a loyal Guild Wars 2 fan, I need GW2 gold to buy powerful items and weapons. Only have enough GW2 gold, I can reach a high level and become strong enough in a short time. I think your store can provide me with the cheapest gold. So I have a try. You do not let me down.
Hey, are you exploring the Bazaar of the Four Wind? The living story is quite interesting. Belcher's Bluff. In the game, I just like a ranger. I can learn skills and make friends from them. What's more, the traveling is full of magic and fun, which really impresses me a lot. The living story which ArenaNet designed is quite attractive. I found of it.
FromMat Maslem
Yesterday I bought a large amount of gold in your store. Today I exchanged gold into gems to buy key to Black Lion Chest. I am really a lucky boy. Do you know what? I got a Tome of Knowledge unexpectedly. This one-use item grants my character one level. Wow, it is really a bargain.
FromNick Noble
Find Password HomeFindpassword
Please enter your email when registering, we will send the new password to your email!
A message has been sent to your mailbox, please check!


text:
From the Manufacturer:In just one serving of this delicious Organic Omega Hemp & Flax Granola, you can enjoy the health benefits that comes along with making granola a part of your everyday breakfast.
New England Natural Bakers
Organic Omega Hemp & Flax Granola
12 oz Bag / Item #032937
Disclaimer: This scientific independent research is provided by Aisle7 and is for informational use only. Puritan provides this information as a service but does not endorse it. Likewise, Aisle7 does not recommend or endorse any specific products.


text:
Anemia (AmE) or anæmia/anaemia (BrE) (from the Ancient Greek Ἀναιμία anaîmia, meaning "without blood") is defined as a qualitative or quantitative deficiency of hemoglobin, a molecule found inside red blood cells (RBCs). Since hemoglobin normally carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues, anemia leads to hypoxia (lack of oxygen) in organs. Since all human cells depend on oxygen for survival, varying degrees of anemia can have a wide range of clinical consequences. Anaemia is caused by the lack of iron in the body as well.
The three main classes of anemia include excessive blood loss (acutely such as a hemorrhage or chronically through low-volume loss), excessive blood cell destruction (hemolysis) or deficient red blood cell production (ineffective hematopoiesis).
Anemia is the most common disorder of the blood. There are several kinds of anemia, produced by a variety of underlying causes. Anemia can be classified in a variety of ways, based on the morphology of RBCs, underlying etiologic mechanisms, and discernible clinical spectra, to mention a few.
There are two major approaches of classifying anemias, the "kinetic" approach which involves evaluating production, destruction and loss, and the "morphologic" approach which groups anemia by red blood cell size. The morphologic approach uses a quickly available and cheap lab test as its starting point (the MCV). On the other hand, focusing early on the question of production may allow the clinician more rapidly to expose cases where multiple causes of anemia coexist.
Pallor (pale skin, mucosal linings and nail beds) is often a useful diagnostic sign in moderate or severe anemia, but it is not always apparent. Other useful signs are cheilosis and koilonychia.
Pica, the consumption of non-food such as dirt, paper, wax, grass, ice, and hair, may be a symptom of iron deficiency, although it occurs often in those who have normal levels of hemoglobin.
Chronic anemia may result in behavioral disturbances in children as a direct result of impaired neurological development in infants, and reduced scholastic performance in children of school age.
In modern counters, four parameters (RBC count, hemoglobin concentration, MCV and RDW) are measured, allowing others (hematocrit, MCH and MCHC) to be calculated, and compared to values adjusted for age and sex. Some counters estimate hematocrit from direct measurements. For adult men, a hemoglobin level less than 13.0 g/dl (grams per deciliter) is diagnostic of anemia, and for adult women, the diagnostic threshold is below 12.0 g/dl.
Reticulocyte counts, and the "kinetic" approach to anemia, have become more common than in the past in the large medical centers of the United States and some other wealthy nations, in part because some automatic counters now have the capacity to include reticulocyte counts. A reticulocyte count is a quantitative measure of the bone marrow's production of new red blood cells. The reticulocyte production index is a calculation of the ratio between the level of anemia and the extent to which the reticulocyte count has risen in response. If the degree of anemia is significant, even a "normal" reticulocyte count actually may reflect an inadequate response.
If an automated count is not available, a reticulocyte count can be done manually following special staining of the blood film. In manual examination, activity of the bone marrow can also be gauged qualitatively by subtle changes in the numbers and the morphology of young RBCs by examination under a microscope. Newly formed RBCs are usually slightly larger than older RBCs and show polychromasia. Even where the source of blood loss is obvious, evaluation of erythropoiesis can help assess whether the bone marrow will be able to compensate for the loss, and at what rate.
When the cause is not obvious, clinicians use other tests: ESR, ferritin, serum iron, transferrin, RBC folate level, serum vitamin B12, hemoglobin electrophoresis, renal function tests (e.g. serum creatinine).
When the diagnosis remains difficult, a bone marrow examination allows direct examination of the precursors to red cells.
Here is a simplified schematic of this approach:
* For instance, sickle cell anemia with superimposed iron deficiency; chronic gastric bleeding with B12 and folate deficiency; and other instances of anemia with more than one cause. ** Confirm by repeating reticulocyte count: ongoing combination of low reticulocyte production index, normal MCV and hemolysis or loss may be seen in bone marrow failure or anemia of chronic disease, with superimposed or related hemolysis or blood loss.
Here is a schematic representation of how to consider anemia with MCV as the starting point:
Other characteristics visible on the peripheral smear may provide valuable clues about a more specific diagnosis; for example, abnormal white blood cells may point to a cause in the bone marrow.
Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia overall and it has many causes. RBCs often appear hypochromic (paler than usual) and microcytic (smaller than usual) when viewed with a microscope.
Macrocytic anemia can be further divided into "megaloblastic anemia" or "non-megaloblastic macrocytic anemia". The cause of megaloblastic anemia is primarily a failure of DNA synthesis with preserved RNA synthesis, which result in restricted cell division of the progenitor cells. The megaloblastic anemias often present with neutrophil hypersegmentation (6-10 lobes). The non-megaloblastic macrocytic anemias have different etiologies (i.e. there is unimpaired DNA globin synthesis,) which occur, for example in alcoholism.
In addition to the non-specific symptoms of anemia, specific features of vitamin B12 deficiency include peripheral neuropathy and subacute combined degeneration of the cord with resulting balance difficulties from posterior column spinal cord pathology. Other features may include a smooth, red tongue and glossitis.
The treatment for vitamin B12-deficient anemia was first devised by William Murphy who bled dogs to make them anemic and then fed them various substances to see what (if anything) would make them healthy again. He discovered that ingesting large amounts of liver seemed to cure the disease. George Minot and George Whipple then set about to chemically isolate the curative substance and ultimately were able to isolate the vitamin B12 from the liver. All three shared the 1934 Nobel Prize in Medicine.
During pregnancy, women should be especially aware of the symptoms of anemia, as an adult female loses an average of two milligrams of iron daily. Therefore, she must intake a similar quantity of iron in order to make up for this loss. Additionally, a woman loses approximately 500 milligrams of iron with each pregnancy, compared to a loss of 4-100 milligrams of iron with each period. Possible consequences for the mother include cardiovascular symptoms, reduced physical and mental performance, reduced immune function, fatigue, reduced peripartal blood reserves and increased need for blood transfusion in the postpartum period.
Iron deficiency from nutritional causes is rare in non-menstruating adults (men and post-menopausal women). The diagnosis of iron deficiency mandates a search for potential sources of loss such as gastrointestinal bleeding from ulcers or colon cancer. Mild to moderate iron deficiency anemia is treated by iron supplementation with ferrous sulfate or ferrous gluconate. Vitamin C may aid in the body's ability to absorb iron.
Vitamin supplements given orally (folic acid) or subcutaneously (vitamin B-12) will replace specific deficiencies.
In anemia of chronic disease, anemia associated with chemotherapy, or anemia associated with renal disease, some clinicians prescribe recombinant erythropoietin, epoetin alfa, to stimulate red cell production.
In severe cases of anemia, or with ongoing blood loss, a blood transfusion may be necessary.
In severe, acute bleeding, transfusions of donated blood are often lifesaving. Improvements in battlefield casualty survival is attributable, at least in part, to the recent improvements in blood banking and transfusion techniques.
Transfusion of the stable but anemic hospitalized patient has been the subject of numerous clinical trials, and transfusion is emerging as a deleterious intervention.
Four randomized controlled clinical trials have been conducted to evaluate aggressive versus conservative transfusion strategies in critically ill patients. All four of these studies failed to find a benefit with more aggressive transfusion strategies.
In addition, at least two retrospective studies have shown increases in adverse clinical outcomes with more aggressive transfusion strategies.
In 2002, Van Meter reviewed the publications surrounding the use of HBO in severe anemia and found that all publications report a positive result.


text:
Maxime Embroidered Chenille Rug
Expertly woven and hand loomed, this rug's plush chenille texture plays soft counterpoint to an embroidered geometric pattern rendered in pure silk for incredible luster. The pure cotton is naturally casual and long-wearing, and slightly uneven edges enhance its handcrafted look.
- Expertly hand knotted in fluffy cotton chenille
- Thin and low-maintenance with a soft weave
- Graphic motif is embroiderd of pure silk
- Pure cotton chenille is naturally soft, resilient and long-wearing
- Variations in shading and slightly uneven edges are part of the design and will be unique to each rug
- Imported
- Professionally clean
- All sizes are approximate
- In grey, dove, cloud or petal
- To extend the rug's life, we recommend using a rug pad (sold separately)
Shown in cloud.
Maxime Embroidered Chenille Rug
- Available in 4 sizes: 5' x 8', 6' x 9', 8' x 10' and 9' x 12'
Maxime Embroidered Chenille Rug
Premium Rug Pad
Low Profile Rug Pad


text:
Who is this team, and what have they done with the Columbus Blue Jackets?
In Pittsburgh, everybody showed up to play. The defense was solid – especially the play of frequent scapegoat Anton Stralman. Paired with Hejda, he was a +4 (note: actually +3, the NHL's statistics gave him credit for the first goal, which he was not on the ice for). Rick Nash got the scoring going early with a beautiful one-timer fed by Derick Brassard. Samuel Pahlsson scored on a delayed penalty, Voracek on a partial break, and Vermette tucked one through on a Pittsburgh giveaway to lead the Jackets to a 4-1 victory.
Cue the excuses. Pittsburgh has no Crosby. No Malkin. No Kunitz. Despite injury trouble, Pittsburgh is (including the L to the Jackets), 7-3-0 in their last ten. That is not a struggling team. The Jackets were simply a better team than the Penguins last night, and for that they prevailed on the scoreboard.
And then they came home to meet San Jose…
For the first twenty minutes, they were buzzing. With two big power play goals from Kristian Huselius and Grant Clitsome, it was suddenly 2-0 Jackets with a whole forty left to go. Unfortunately, the chances stopped coming, despite a massive 44 shots on goal. Niemi stood tall after the first, even when guys like Derek Dorsett and Jakub Voracek peppered him relentlessly with shots (8 and 7, respectively). Even with San Jose's three unanswered goals, the foot was never entirely off the gas pedal, perhaps just slowed in the middle frame. A heartbreaker. Can't win them all, but it would have been nice to take that one.Â
Where we are: 12th place, Western Conference, -6 points from eighth place Calgary
What's next: Friday vs. the Foote-less Colorado, 7pm