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Sunday, January 31, 2010
Little brother is watching
I shot a video clip at a local school fair that showed police cars careening around a field. It happened a year ago. I have kept the footage all this time because initially I didn't know how to get the material off the phone and onto my computer. Bluetooth connection between the two devices just wasn't happening. I solved the problem with a little memory card, downloaded it, then forgot all about it. I have been shooting and editing video recently so I was reminded that I had it on file and decided to post it.
The clips show two police patrol cars driving at speed on the school field. Aboard are children who have paid for the joy ride.
During the incident the cars drive at speed in a confined space between an ice cream truck and a inflatable bouncy castle. Children line up for ice cream and play without concern.
I have no malicious intention or axe to grind. Some commenters imply I am biased for some reason (I have since disabled comments because of vitriolic and threatening remarks). I have no bias and only the highest general regard for Police who perform their duties, which are often appalling (and, no, I wouldn't change places with them). That doesn't mean they always get things right though, they are humans, like the rest of us.
Some comments on YouTube implied that, because police are trained drivers my observation is fatuous. Who knows, they might be right, but without information about who was driving and their level of skill at the time it is impossible to make an informed comment about that. In principle one could reasonably argue that an experienced, skilled and trained driver would be circumspect about engaging in such a demonstration. Things go wrong, even for the most skilled people. Just recently a New Zealand Air Force pilot, a senior member of the aerobatics squad, was killed during a routine manoeuvre in training.
Yesterday a journalist from the Dominion Post called to ask about the clip. It is in the paper this morning.
The article said the police would be requesting the original footage to determine whether it had been tampered with. "…Police National Headquarters spokeswoman Debbie Corney said police in Waitemata district would be requesting the original footage to establish its authenticity and "speaking to staff to determine exactly what happened" The comment is telling - the initial reaction is to lash out - is it authentic? It is just as you see it. Crudely shot, in low resolution but all the footage is complete and joined together simply from it's raw form. Nothing has been sped up or altered. As for speaking to staff to determine what 'exactly' happened? Well, once again the, the video speaks for itself. Staff will only be able to subjectively interpret events like anyone else, myself included.
In part I regret posting the clip, I am not interested in bagging the Police generally and I accept that some people feel that I have been unfair. I simply recorded and commented on the event.
But it has been instructive in a sense. People in the public eye need to be aware that cameras are everywhere. I often have three cameras with me (while my old Samsung phone - that I shot this footage with is pretty rough, I also have point and shoot HD). I never know when something interesting will become material to be shared. Most times the material I do share is mundane and barely warrants a notice. Who knows, footage you or I capture might solve a crime one day?
This is the era of social media. You and I have access to our own private channels - this blog, Posterous, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook… did I say channels - I meant networks. It is a fact of life.
Sometimes the mainstream media will pick up the story. I have had photos of other observations picked up in the past - such as candyfloss in the fruit and veges section of the supermarket - media voraciously consume 'content'.
Curiously enough even mundane material is deemed more 'important' when it is in the newspaper or on TV then buried amongst the millions of clips and images on YouTube. My clip would have been ignored if the journalist hadn't been listening out on Twitter and it would only have been part of the conversation in my limited networks. I'm not interested in leading a crusade (unless it is to improve men's health)
This morning other media outlets have been contacting me through Twitter and Facebook. Interestingly the clip isn't news. It is an artifact, a year old, something to discuss and think about. I am not interested in being drawn into an antagonistic conversation about the police generally.
17 comments:
You were awfully quiet for a man who was concerned. Why was there no audio from you commenting on exactly why you were filming? When I film something that I disagree with, I always state that and include some facts so that it is recorded appropriately.ReplyDelete
Also, I didn't hear any other parents or teachers, or anyone, complaining, or showing concern.
I don't honestly think your headline on youtube for that clip was fair, and I believe you have made a mountain out of a molehill as the whole thing seemed very tame, and very controlled.
I really would be interested to know your TRUE motivation behind this clip becoming a news headliner NOW, at this point in time? If it was that much of an issue and you hoped to bring about some sort of resolution then why was this not brought to the medias attention back when you shot it? I'm sure someone at the tv3 news room could have taught you how to upload your clip.
I think you have over reacted, and you should remove the clip to save yourself from further embarrassment - or at least maybe change the heading and admit that you did over react. I don't know...just a suggestion.
I'm not here to attack you, just to share my thoughts, and maybe find out exactly what the story is here. You clearly have an issue, but is it actually with this particular footage, or something else?
By the way... you are very right. You, or any one of us, could well help to solve a crime with our footage someday. We could save someones life even. And let's face it, if it weren't for people out there filming all sorts of random things, where would a lot of our footage come from for news, reality shows and funniest home video shows?
Keep filming, get some great stuff, but on this occasion with the police driving...keep it in context and maybe post it with the view to finding out what other people think? Some things are going to rile us up more than others, and sometimes emotions kick in when judging a situation. We're not always right when we are worked up about something. So if you post it and say "I have my own thoughts on this, but what do you think?"..... then it leaves it open for discussion and conclusions.
Good luck with your future clips. I reckon you will get something pretty major someday.
p.s...nope, I'm not a cop! lol! I'd love to be a detective, but not so fussed on the 2 years probation..... lol
- Anonymous3:19 p.m.
Regarding your comment:
"I am not interested in being drawn into an antagonistic conversation about the police generally"
However, your video clip starts with:
"New Zealand Police show the public how to drift, donut, endanger children and make a mockery of the governments safety message".
This remark appears to direct criticism towards the "New Zealand Police" as a collective. Is this not what was intended ?
- Anonymous3:20 p.m.
The big issue is of course, if you were so concerned by the actions you recorded, why did you not complain to the police on the day it happened?ReplyDelete
Surely their "astonishingly bad judgement" would have had you running to the nearest police station to report it. In fact, why haven't you done that even now? Perhaps it is you that has shown the bad judgement in releasing this in the way you have so long after the event. You're not interested in being drawn into antagonistic conversation. What did you think would happen? Perhaps even the most skille bloggers get it wrong huh!!
- Anonymous4:57 p.m.
what is your problem? they wernt doing doughnuts, the wernt powersliding and they didnt look like at any point they were out of control they weren "at speed" and they certanly wernt "careening around" and the only kids i saw in the video were buying icecreams from mr whippy (a big vehicle that could stop most things if it was hit), i couldnt see any on the bouncy castle and the angle you were filming them on (near the bouncy castle) is an angle that makes it look closer than they actualy were getting, also it looked like the area was cordend off anyway, from what i saw in the video they werent doing anything dangerious i doubt they were going faster than 20ks, the police cars are modified holden commodores with better suspention, breaks and general handling and responce i would have no problem with my kid being near them driving like that so i want to know what your issue is? or are you just sensationalising this whole thing, put down the bubble wrap for all of our sakes and use a little bit of interlectual discression when posting things like this, because now my tax payer money is being used to fund an investigation, i have a young family and would rather my tax payer money be spent on more important things. im not attacking you and i do not intend to offend im just offering a differnt point of view and wondering why they were conciderd to be driving dangeriously?ReplyDelete
I conceded some of the points being made are valid. I did think the incident was 'off' at the time. My sister, whose kids attended the school pleaded with me not to make a fuss. That, combined with the fact I had no idea how to move it from the phone to the computer meant I just put it aside and let it go.ReplyDelete
When I reviewed the material recently I felt it made for a thought provoking item. This blog is called ThoughtSpurs, after all.
I did not approach any media to promote the clip, the Dominion Post picked it up from a remark I made on Twitter. Other media have picked up on the story.
As it happens, having had a conversation with the commander of the North Shore police on the phone I am satisfied that they take the matter seriously. My opinion is that there is a positive benefit arising from the matter is procedures are tightened to protect not only the public but also cops who might make a 'judgment' call that proves to be a bad one.
Many commenters have suggested that I am overly PC. I hope not. I agree that kids are over protected in society and need to feel safe an confident out and about in the world. I encourage it in my own kids. I hope they have the good sense to avoid stupid situations though. There are degrees of risk.
There is an element of vitriol running through the remarks of some. Others question my motivation. As I have said, it became an interesting artifact and topic of discussion. It was not my intention for it to be picked up by a news outlet and I approached none. It was intended for my own web networks, people with whom I have regular and useful conversations and connections.
It is interesting to see the ugly side of the web too. My personal belief is that anonymous commenters are generally to be ignored. You own you own words on the web.
This morning I was tempted to remove the video from YouTube. But that would mean that people would not be able to view the material and make up their own minds.
Please feel free to add your thoughts, but if they are simply hates speech I'm not going to give you a forum. It they are reasonable - even in opposition to my thoughts then I am genuinely interested.
- Anonymous5:04 p.m.
the police safe driving campaign is a mochery of its self. its not about safe driving its all the ignorant people out there who cant drive and have no concept of vehicle control that are the problem. 3 weeks ago i drove down to tauranga and i swear no one person was driving at the speed limit of 100kph they were doing 70-80 kph oh and this wasnt driving to conditions either, it was a stunning and perfect day for drivingReplyDelete
dont make the roads worse than they allready are
actualy maby an add campaign on how to merge correctly should be created seeing as most people cant even "merge like a zip"
- Anonymous5:07 p.m.
Have you read the stuff.co.nz page on this topic? There's 183 nice shiny comments by people who think you're majorly overreacting.ReplyDelete
I see no issue with this. You've made a bit of a fool of yourself really. If this had actually been something you were concerned, you would have talked to the Police at the time, not gone and stuck it up on YouTube over a year later. To be quite honest, that seems like a gutless reaction and hints that the cops have gotten you a bit disgruntled - did you get a speeding ticket, perhaps?
Maybe you did, maybe you didn't, but that's how it looks to the rest of NZ. Maybe you should take the video down or at least change the title. You're already the laughingstock of everyone who has read the article, as the comments show.
The Police do some amazing work in this country. Have some more respect for what seems to be a harmless show but extremely skilled drivers.
- Anonymous6:26 p.m.
I'm sorry but this just seems like a big waste of time on your behalf and a waste of police time "investigating". I can't tell from the video that they drive "extremely" close and even if they were I'm sure the cars are more than capaple to stop if seomthing did go wrong. I think if you were so worried then 2 years ago you should have taken it to the police. To try and turn it into a big public issue is just silly. As of yet no other person, parent or child has come forward to complain about the matter publically as you have and it seems like no one has anyway. I honestly think this is just you getting your knickers in a bunch about nothing. I see nothing to discuss but the fact that you have wasted police time and resources. The fact that they even came and spent there own time raising money for the school is brilliant. It's a pity police can't even take a bunch of kids for a ride round a feild without some way too pc tosser kicking up a stink about it. Chill out, have a beer. Heck! Go jay walking! Live on the edge!ReplyDelete
- Anonymous7:26 p.m.
I get the feeling that someone got a speeding ticket recently and thinks this is a good way to get his own back. Either way there will be thousands of dollars spent investigating this, money we can ill afford to spend if we believe what the papers tell us. There are people out there who have nothing better to do than complain. I have looked carefully at this video and I challenge anyone to point out a specific dangerous pointReplyDelete
- Anonymous7:40 p.m.
Man boy are you having a go at the police . Do you have beef with them, have you had a traffic ticket and is this a way to get back at them I wonder.ReplyDelete
It looks pretty tame to me and it gave kids some joy and fun, did Santa not give you any toys this Christmas and are you being a bit Grinch like.
Or are you trying to get free publicity for your blog.
- Anonymous7:47 p.m.
I agree with David. To me this seems irresponsible. The amount of negative comments doesn't surprise me. Only a small fraction of population thinks rationally and is capable of displaying independent reasoning. All the rest are driven by mob mentality. Additionally, it's quite likely (judging by the content of most comments) that most people posting responses on websites like Stuff.co.nz and Yahoo are quite young with no real life experience and/or low level of erudition. I wouldn't take seriously anyone who uses words like "tosser", "dork", etc. That's not constructive criticism. Not all comments are like that, but most seem to have been made by people who just wanted to fit in with the masses (bandwagon effect).ReplyDelete
- Anonymous8:18 p.m.
It's an interesting issue, and I can appreciate the concern you might have upon seeing such a situation, however I do think your reaction is unwarranted.ReplyDelete
To the untrained or uninformed the event may look dangerous, and there's a good argument to make that on that grounds alone it was a poor decision by Police. However there's a host of factors to consider.
Firstly, I don't believe there was anything actually dangerous about what was happening. All police officers undergo rigorous driver training at the Police college, including high speed pursuit and how to handle vehicles that have loss of traction. More than likely the officers driving these cars would have been senior experienced staff, but even assuming they're not, they have more than sufficient skills to keep the car where they want it.
Secondly, the vehicles were not being driven in a reckless manner. I did not see a single incident, on your video, of any car losing traction. They were making a series of sharp turns, yes, but this in itself demonstrates the vehicles were maintaining traction, as it is impossible to perform such a turn without sliding the tail if there is loss of traction. The vehicles are not travelling fast. I doubt either of them ever exceeded 40km/h. Consider that smaller confined spaces, and spaces you do not expect to see a car, give the illusion that it is travelling faster than it is. We allow our children to play on footpaths with cars travelling past at 50km/h without safety barriers or marshalls, and the average driver is woeful compared to a police officer's driving skillset.
Finally, I did not see any vehicle travelling even at the modest top speed they achieved when anywhere near people. There was considerable separation.
Aside from the danger of the activity, there is the public image, and in this case I think there is an argument, but I can see why the police did what they did.
For police, connecting with children in a positive way is one of the most effective way of ensuring they have the public on their side. This is why police put so many resources into having officers visit classrooms and so forth. Children who have a positive view of officers are more likely to grow up to be adults who respect the police.
Children are not going to be worried by this event. If I know children, overwhelmingly they will think it was great, and their opinion of police will be greatly boosted. A few adults such as your self may understandably think less of the police, but frankly from their view making a firmer bond with a crowd of children easily offsets upsetting a handful of adults.
Since you were kind enough to divulge your own name David, I will divulge mine (Kevin Lewis).ReplyDelete
I've watched your clip and read the commentary on YouTube, I'm sorry but I have to agree with the multitude of nay sayers to your comments. Several of the comments that stuck to mind were
A) That the drivers are "doing donuts and showing poor judgement"
B) That had this been a sanctioned motorsport event there would have been marshals, and safety barriers protecting/seperating the public from the cars
C) That the police are showing poor judgement in charging money for this sort of thing.
and D) That the Police officers are on duty.
I reply:
A)At no time during your video did it appear that either of the police cars lost traction on the grass in a manner indicating and intentional act of irresonsiblity. The speed at which the vehicles are travelling does not appear to be great and at no time do the drivers appear to be "racing". There is a lot of dust being kicked up by the vehicles that is typical of a dry grass surface once the "wet" upper layers of grass are removed by the simple wear and tear of the vehicles passing over it, this can be misconstrued on camera making the vehicles speed appear higher than it actually is.
The proximity of the Police Cars to the Bouncy Castle and Ice Cream truck cannot accurately be judged from your video due to A) the camera angle and B) the video quality(no offense intended)
B) As an active member of a MANZ affiliated motorsport club, I can inform you that there are several forms of "sanctioned" events that do not require any forms of safety equipment other than a course laid out by road cones (which as you will be aware will do nothing to avert catastrophe should the worst happen) and a fire extinguisher. The subject of marshals IS a valid point however at those events a LOT of responsibility for children and the general public is put onto the individuals and parents supervising the children; and the dangers of such events are usually pointed out by the organisors at the commencement of the event. ALL forms of motorsport have unique hazards and any person attending, participating, organising or simply observing such events should recognise that fact, as indeed you have, however you should also be aware that all forms of motorsport are attended by the public at their own risk and all events I have been to or competed in have identified that fact in large signage around the venue. But lets be realistic, this is NOT a motorsport event nor does it bear any resemblence to one, it is a school gala. These vehicles once put on camera will always appear to be moving at an accelerated pace and I have footage that will back that comment up, which you are welcome to view at any time.
C) That these drivers show poor judgement in charging money for what they are doing. From what I understand the Police officers were raising money for the school and not themselves, Police Cars and Kids, you have to admit it is a guaranteed recipe for success and I know of no child that would not bug their mum or dad for $1 or $2 to go for a ride, heck some of the dads probably begged mum for a ride. At a time when we need more police officers, I believe that this is a moment that will stick in many of the childrens minds and influence their career paths in the future. This incident does not contest the road safety campaigns nor does it contradict the current "boy racer" laws, instead it hammers home a point that the police, car clubs, and other sanctioning organisations have been tryin to make for years. IT IS OK! BUT ONLY UNDER CONTROLLED CIRCUMSTANCES. With all the bad publicity surrounding the Police at the moment, they need the freedom to do something like this. In Hamilton many years ago, a Police officer was reprimanded for doing a burnout at a Police organised drag and burnout meeting, whilst emphisas was placed on the misuse of Police vehicles (which I do not condone) no mention was made that up until that act there was a tense standoff at the event between Police wanting these "hoons" to do something (believing they would leave and do burnouts elsewhere illegally) and the "hoons" being afraid that to do so would result in punishment from the Police and the impounding of their vehicles. Had that officer not broken the ice with his act, the night would have been a failure and the Police efforts rendered a waste of time. From what I understand the night was a success.
C) I have no doubts that the officers were on duty at the time, liasing with the public is just one of many duties that officers will perform. I also have no doubts that had an emergency occured requiring the officers attendance they would have complied without fail. This is not simply a case of two Police officers hooning around a paddock on company time with kids for passengers and abusing Police equipment, it is merely a public relations exercise that has been blown out of proportion by a concerned member of public.
I suggest you need to perhaps step back and look at the even bigger picture than the one you are seeing, as a father myself I can appreciate and understand your concerns and perhaps I too would have posted the video for public debate myself. However, I feel that your concerns are somewhat unfounded and I would have posted the video in a less condeming manner and left more judgement in the hands of the viewer. The officers' in question should be congratulated, not condemmed for their participation. The attention and publicity surrounding this video may not be what you had intended but it is in part because of your comments on YouTube and the video itself. I ask you a question, which I would hope you would think deeply about before answering is simple: Had the same act been performed with Rally Cars, Hot Rods or Exotic Cars instead of Police Cars would you still have the same views you have about this incident and posted such a condemming video?


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Knack, probably the PS4's most controversial launch title, has garnered it's fair share of dislike and praise. There's people who have been split on the title. It's far from perfect, but it's no 4/10. It's solid for what it is, despite being a bit simplistic. It's a title I really wish they would release a demo for to give people a better idea.
One aspect of the game that could make it better for many people is the inclusion of local co-op. Yes, local co-op, that rare feature that many games toss out the window anymore in favor of online multiplayer. Family Gamer TV has a couple of videos of two brothers venturing around in Knack in co-op, in which they seem to have a good time with it, which is all that matters in the end, right?
I can speak from experience, having played through the game with my sister, but we are both in our early 20's, with her not being much into games other than what's on the App Store, The Sims or Animal Crossing, so that might not really count. I will say that it's a decent co-op game that inexperienced players can do decent at on Easy difficulty.
I'd say that if you have siblings, a spouse or children, Knack is worth a look for it's co-op alone.
Co-op makes everything better.
via Family Gamer TV

subset: commoncrawl


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IOWA CITY, Iowa The only team that pushed No. 1 Iowa City Regina all season stayed close again. But this for only a half.
West Branch took an early lead, but the Regals scored 27 unanswered points, starting with a late rally in the second quarter, for a 27-9 victor last night in a Class 1A second-round playoff game.
"We had a really shaky start," Regina Coach Marv Cook said. "I thought our defense grew up today. They've been playing solid all year and this was just a huge moment for them."
Regina (11-0), winners of 39 straight games, will play No. 10 Maquoketa Valley (10-1) Friday in a quarterfinal matchup.
Regina's normally explosive offense turned the ball over on downs and lost two fumbles in the first two quarters to fall behind.
It didn't look much better the next drive, when the Regals faced a second-and-17 with 4 1/2 minutes left in the half. But quarterback Mark Ward connected with Matt Streb on a 75-yard touchdown bomb just past the reach of a leaping defensive back.
Then Regina forced a quick stop and Ward plunged in the end zone in for a 1-yard score in the final minute of the half for a 14-9 lead.
"We just had to get into the flow of the game," Ward said. "We started slow. We can't keep doing that."
For the Bears (8-3), the loss ends a four-year streak of reaching the state semifinals. West Branch controlled the line in the first quarter, but then managed only 55 yards of offense in the last three quarters.
All-state running back Cade Jones limped off the field midway through the first with a knee injury. Jones returned in the second quarter, but his mobility was clearly limited. The senior finished with 47 yards, including only one carry in the second half.
"That's a major, major loss," West Branch Coach Butch Pedersen said. "He couldn't run. He just couldn't run."
Regina running back Riley Dixon was in a walking boot and on crutches after the game after sustaining an unknown injury late in the fourth quarter. Cook didn't know the extent of the injury.
West Branch lost a 15-13 instant classic to Regina in Week 3, scoring a touchdown and then missing the tying two-point conversion in the final seconds.
The Bears had their chances again in the rematch.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa News, Sports, and Weather
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Women's Show - CONNIE MAY FOWLER, author
Connie May Fowler, author of BEFORE WOMEN HAD WINGS, REMEMBERING BLUE, and WHEN KATIE WAKES: A MEMOIR. She currently is the Irving Bachellor Chair in Creative Witing at Rollins College. She is a dramatic novelist, essayist, and screenwriter, who writes of the destructiveness and courae of the human spirit. In each of here novels, Fowler uses personal events and information: living in poverty, reading for comfort and escape, Florida, looking to God/spirit for help,and mixed racial culture. Readers' hearts ache from the dichotomies: abject abuse and neglect, poverty and squalor, and hatred and prejudice versus simplicity in character, the beauty of nature, and the kindness or magic of siritually inspired individuals. She is bing hoored as a Southern Writer by The Weekly Planet nd Inkwood Books. Her new book will be THE PROBLEM WITH MURMUR LEE, due out in a few months.comments powered by Disqus


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- About Hunger
- U.S. Hunger
- Global Hunger
- Hunger & Poverty Facts
- Maternal & Child Nutrition
- Foreign Assistance
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- Development Goals
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- The Bible and Hunger
Am I Spending Myself?
The kind of fasting God has chosen
By Lynne Hybels
November 2010
Nearly a decade ago a friend challenged me to read Isaiah 58 for 30 days in a row. She knew I had studied to become a social worker and that when I joined my husband in starting a church I dreamed of ministering holistically—addressing spiritual, physical, and social needs. She knew of my ministry involvement in poor communities in Latin America.
She also knew that 30 days of Isaiah 58 would push me even deeper into the battle against poverty and injustice. This well-known passage records God's response to the Israelites when they complain that despite their dutiful attention to their religion's rules and rituals, to days of worship and fasting, God did not seem to be responding to them—blessing them—the way they thought he should.
God responded to their whining complaint with words that reverberate through time and space (Isaiah 58:4-7):
On the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers. Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high .…
Is this not the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free .… Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter…when you see the naked, to clothe him .…
Elsewhere in the passage God calls us to "spend ourselves in behalf of the hungry." How can I claim to worship God if I am not giving sacrificially of my time, my energy, my money, and my voice—truly spending myself—on behalf of the hungry?
Shortly after my initial Isaiah 58 challenge, I made my first visit to Africa. In a rural Ugandan village I met eight orphans living with their elderly, frail grandfather. It was late afternoon. The children had not eaten that day and there was no meal awaiting them. The meeting was unexpected, so we had brought no food for the family. In that moment I hated who I was: a privileged American seeing a desperate need and doing nothing to meet it. Of course that wasn't my intent, but good intentions mean little. To those children, I was just one more person seeing their need and walking away.
I vowed that day I would never again be an abundantly blessed American turning my back. In subsequent trips to Africa, I have partnered relationally and financially with local churches fighting hunger and disease. In many cases it's the poor caring for the desperately poor, the sick caring for the dying—but these radical followers of Jesus have become my heroes, giants of faith whose example humbles me.
I have also become convinced that being a Christian citizen in America requires that I lift my voice on behalf of the hungry, that I challenge my friends, my church, and my government to wisely and generously respond to the needs of the poor.
Taped to my desk is this quote: "I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do." That quote—along with my Bible opened to Isaiah 58—challenges me every day to join in God's work on behalf of God's hungry children.
Lynne Hybels founded Willow Creek Community Church, near Chicago, with her husband, Bill. For more on her ministry, particularly in Latin America and Africa, visit www.lynnehybels.com.


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Leeds have accepted an undisclosed offer from npower Championship rivals Leicester for goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel.
The 24-year-old has spent only one season at Elland Road after arriving from Notts County last summer, making 40 appearances.
Leeds manager Simon Grayson said: "We feel this is the right deal for the club. We spoke to Kasper's agent at the end of the season about a contract extension and it was apparent that it was going to be difficult to agree a deal."
He added: "Given the fact he has one year remaining on his contract we feel this is in the best interests of Leeds United."
Copyright (c) PA Sport 2009, All Rights Reserved.


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DrugTest 5000 - Draeger Safety Diagnostics Inc
In the past, roadside drug screening has been difficult because it involved the...
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Join IBM industry expert Stephen Dalzell and members from the MDPD, IT and homeland security departments of the Miami Dade police department to hear more!
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At IACP 2011, Motorola Solutions announced the release of Motorola Public Safety LTE. The system is now available.
Motorola's Long Term Evolution (LTE) products were developed through alliances with Ericsson and Verizon Wireless. The Motorola Public Safety LTE suite spans planning, integration, support, and hosting.
The Motorola Public Safety LTE solution will support a host of public safety applications, including Motorola's PremierOne and other computer-aided dispatch, real-time video streaming, dynamic mapping and routing, in-field reporting, and tactical collaboration tools.
Motorola has announced three Public Safety LTE projects already under development: San Francisco Bay Area; Harris County, Texas; and the state of Mississippi.
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MARYVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- For three and a half quarters, Tennessee's two heavyweight football programs went toe-to-toe.
Even Alcoa head coach Gary Rankin used the heavyweight boxing analogy to describe the game, saying his Tornadoes lasted to the 13th round before the wheels came off.
In a game televised nationally on ESPN2, the Rebels outlasted Alcoa 42-24.
The game was much closer than the final score, but fourth quarter miscues by the Tornadoes helped the Rebels pull away.
"We closed it off there in the fourth quarter," quarterback Nick Myers said. "We ran the ball really good in the fourth quarter, tricked them a little bit. The (fumble on) that kickoff really sealed the deal. It was a good way to finish the game."
Rankin knows you can't beat a quality team like Maryville by committing turnovers.
"We made some bad mistakes the last few minutes. We had some kids going both ways, but mentally we lost our edge there. At the end we fought them for about thirteen rounds. We just couldn't finish the fourteenth and the fifteenth."
Maryville has now won 31 straight games.
With the two schools located just seven miles apart, each with a storied tradition, the rivalry is among the best in the nation.
Maryville and Alcoa have a combined 25 state championships.


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Havertown, PA (PRWEB) July 31, 2012
National Energy Control Corporation, a leading authorized distributor of control systems and components for commercial HVAC and lighting systems, announces the launch of a new website at http://necc-controls.com. The new site provides a "Quick Part Number Search" feature for those who know the part number they are looking for. Partial part number searches may also be performed. This new feature helps customers find the part they need quickly and easily, with fast ordering and speedy delivery. NECC carries the most complete assortment of control valves for commercial and industrial applications.
Also on the website are new product category pages to assist visitors who are unsure of what they need to find the exact part they are looking for. The category pages enable access to hundreds of easy-to-use selection charts that are designed to help the user find exactly what is needed. By clicking on the part number in the selection chart, the customer can view additional product information and easily order the part.
"The new NECC website with its quick part number search is a blend of technological change and our customer suggestions, gathered over NECC's twelve year internet B-to-B experience," says NECC CEO Kerk Farrell. "We've combined what's cool with what our customers have asked us for. Our registered users still earn free UPS ground shipping for web site orders of $300 or more, and can still access customized pricing.
In addition to the primary product information, the site serves up cross reference and accessory information for many of the listed products, as well as obsolete parts. The cross-reference and accessory information is added to, each day. Farrell says, "Work on the web site will be a continual improvement process, insuring that it contains everything our customers want and need. We can never assume that we've presented enough information for our customers." With links to more than fifty manufacturers' websites, http://necc-controls.com is sure to have a positive impact on customer experience and ease of use.
About National Energy Control Corporation
National Energy Control Corporation (NECC) is an authorized wholesale distributor of over 200,000 parts and controls for commercial HVAC and lighting systems. NECC carries the most complete assortment of control valves for commercial and industrial applications. By stocking components such as valve bodies, actuators and linkages, NECC is able to assemble more than 15,000 different valve assemblies from stock.
For more information on the new NECC web site or the company, visit http://necc-controls.com or call 800-227-9800.


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Arizmendi Bakery - Panaderia and Pizzeria
1268 Valenica Street
San Francisco, CA 94110
(415) 826-9218
Our distinctive and delicious pizza, pastries, and breads have made us repeat winners for best bakery and pizzeria in the Bay Area in local media. We roll and bake our food right in front of you, bringing fresh bread out of the ovens all day long. Our straightforward recipes use the highest quality ingredients that are organic whenever possible.
Our pizzas feature fresh vegetables, flavorful cheeses, infused oils and a variety of herbs on an organic, thin crust made from our signature sourdough. One distinct variety of pizza is offered each day. Our morning pastries are delicious and healthy, including both vegan treats and hearty scones and breads. Our sourdough loaves are crusty with a shiny luster and a delicious complex flavor.


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Sarah Palin's unwed mother-daughter Bristol Palin guaranteed InTouch magazine that she would never have sex again before marriage.
But Oprah Winfrey wonders if such a vow is realistic for a young girl.
"It may be 10 years before you get married. Why set yourself up so that everybody you go out with, you date -- the media is going to be looking at that person, trying to get that person to sell you out, to say, 'Did you have sex or not,'" asked Winfrey.


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|MicrobiologyBytes: Virology: Plant viruses
|Updated: April 8, 2009
MicrobiologyBytes: Latest Updates
This document is in no way intended to be a complete or even thorough discussion of plant viruses. More detailed information is available elsewhere!
|Plant viruses face special problems initiating an infection. The outer surfaces of plants are composed of protective layers of waxes and pectin, but more significantly, each cell is surrounded by a thick wall of cellulose overlying the cytoplasmic membrane.
To date, no plant virus is known to use a specific cellular receptor of the type that animal and bacterial viruses use to attach to cells. Rather, plant viruses rely on a mechanical breach of the integrity of a cell wall to directly introduce a virus particle into a cell. This is achieved either by the vector associated with transmission of the virus or simply by mechanical damage to cells. After replication in an initial cell, the lack of receptors poses special problems for plant viruses in recruiting new cells to the infection.
|Transmission of plant viruses by insects is of particular agricultural importance. Extensive areas of monoculture and the inappropriate use of pesticides which kill natural predators can result in massive population booms of insects such as aphids.
Plant viruses rely on a mechanical breach of the integrity of a cell wall to directly introduce a virus particle into a cell. This is achieved either by the vector associated with transmission of the virus or simply by mechanical damage to cells.
Transfer by insect vectors is a particularly efficient means of virus transmission. In some instances, viruses are transmitted mechanically from one plant to the next by the vector and the insect is merely a means of distribution, flying or being carried on the wind for long distances (sometimes hundreds of miles). Insects which bite or suck plant tissues are, of course, the ideal means of transmitting viruses to new hosts. This is known as non-propagative transmission. However, in other cases (e.g. many plant rhabdoviruses) the virus may also infect and multiply in the tissues of the insect (propagative transmission) as well as those of host plants. In these cases, the vector serves as a means not only of distributing the virus, but also of amplifying the infection:
Begomoviruses (Geminiviridae) are transmitted by whiteflies. Most Begomovirus genomes consist of two circular, single-stranded DNA molecules. These viruses cause a great deal of crop damage in plants such as tomatoes, beans, squash, cassava and cotton and their spread may be directly linked to the inadvertent world-wide dissemination of the "B" or silverleaf biotype of the whitefly Bemisia tabaci. This vector is an indiscriminate feeder, encouraging rapid and efficient spread of viruses from indigenous plant species to neighbouring crops.
|Begomovirus (Geminiviridae) (single-stranded DNA)
|Comovirus (single-stranded RNA)
|Furovirus (single-stranded RNA)
|Tobravirus (single-stranded RNA)
|Partitiviridae (double-stranded RNA)
|Bromoviridae (single-stranded RNA)
|Hordeivirus (single-stranded RNA)
These discrete particles are structurally similar and may contain the same component proteins, but often differ in size depending on the length of the genome segment packaged. In one sense, multipartite genomes are, of course, segmented, but this is not the strict meaning of these terms as they are used here.
Genome segmentation reduces the probability of breakages due to shearing, thus increasing the total potential coding capacity of the genome. However, the disadvantage of this strategy is that all the individual genome segments must be packaged into each virus particle, or the virus will be defective as a result of loss of genetic information. Separating the genome segments into different particles (the multipartite strategy) removes the requirement for accurate sorting, but introduces a new problem in that all the discrete virus particles must be taken up by a single host cell to establish a productive infection. This is perhaps the reason multipartite viruses are only found in plants. Many of the sources of infection by plant viruses, such as inoculation by sap-sucking insects or after physical damage to tissues, result in a large inoculum of infectious virus particles, providing opportunities for infection of an initial cell by more than one particle.
|Plant cell walls necessarily contain channels called plasmodesmata
which allow plant cells to communicate with each other and to pass metabolites
between them.
However, these channels are too small to allow the passage of virus particles or genomic nucleic acids.
Many (if not most) plant viruses have evolved specialized movement proteins which modify the plasmodesmata. One of the best known examples of this is the 30k protein of tobacco mosaic virus (TMV). This protein is expressed from a sub-genomic mRNA and its function is to modify plasmodesmata causing genomic RNA coated with 30k protein to be transported from the infected cell to neighbouring cells. Other viruses, such as cowpea mosaic virus (CPMV - Comovirus family) have a similar strategy but employ a different molecular mechanism. In CPMV, the 58/48k proteins form tubular structures allowing the passage of intact virus particles to pass from one cell to another.
Typically, virus infections of plants might result in effects such as growth retardation, distortion, mosaic patterning on the leaves, yellowing, wilting, etc. These macroscopic symptoms result from:
Plants might be seen as sitting targets for virus infection - unlike animals, they cannot run away. However, plants exhibit a range of responses to virus infections designed to minimize their effects. Initially, infection results in a 'hypersensitive response', manifested as:
Plants might be seen as sitting targets for virus infection - unlike animals, they cannot run away. However, plants exhibit a range of responses to virus infections designed to minimize their effects. Initially, infection results in a 'hypersensitive response', manifested as:
Although this system is poorly understood, at least some of these proteins have been characterized and have been shown to be proteases, which presumably destroy virus proteins, limiting the spread of the infection. There is some similarity here between this response and the production of interferons by animals. In addition, systemic resistance to virus infection is a naturally occurring phenomenon in some strains of plant, e.g. the tobacco N gene encodes a cytoplasmic protein with a nucleotide binding site which interferes with the TMV replicase. This is clearly a highly desirable characteristic and is highly prized by plant breeders, who try to spread this attribute to economically valuable crop strains. There are probably many different mechanisms involved in systemic resistance, but in general terms there is a tendency towards increased local necrosis as substances such as proteases and peroxidases are produced by the plant to destroy the virus and to prevent its spread and subsequent systemic disease. An example of this is the N gene, which when present in plants causes TMV to produce a localized, necrotic infection rather than the systemic mosaic symptoms normally seen (Marathe R. et al. The tobacco mosaic virus resistance gene, N. Molecular Plant Pathology 3:167-172, 2002). Other examples include:
Virus-resistant plants have been created by the production of transgenic plants expressing recombinant virus proteins or nucleic acids which interfere with virus replication without producing the pathogenic consequences of infection, e.g:
Another developing aspect of plant biotechnology is the construction of CVPs - Chimaeric Virus Particles - recompinant viruses such as:
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© MicrobiologyBytes 2009.


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Welcome to the new ccli.org website! If you have followed an old link, please use our search to find the new location of the information.
You may also like to view our Site Map. Please bookmark the new page. Thank you.
Type a word or words into the search field to search our site.


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Matt Peterson tracks the offseason needs of every team in the league. Today's franchise, the Miami Dolphins [full archive here].
Season Recap: The Miami Dolphins ended the season on a high note, finishing 6-3 after a 0-7 start. A new coach was brought in and star WR Brandon Marshall was sent away for two 3rd round picks. It will be interesting to see what Miami does to improve their roster come draft night.
Team Needs:
1. Quarterback: After missing out on Peyton Manning and the rights to draft Robert Griffin III, the Dolphins need to do whatever it takes to acquire their guy on April 26th. Offensive Coordinator, Mike Sherman coached Ryan Tannehill at Texas A&M and could be pressing hard for the Dolphins to either trade up or stay at #8 and draft him. If the Dolphins decide to pass on Tannehill, the next best option would be Brandon Weeden, but they may have to trade back into the late first round in order to be sure of getting him.
2. Wide Receiver: This wasn't as pressing a need until Owner Stephen Ross decided to ship away Pro-Bowl receiver Brandon Marshall. Now, the Dolphins are left with Brian Hartline and Davone Bess as the starters. Bess is best served in the slot; meaning Miami needs a new starter. Michael Floyd or Justin Blackmon would be the next options in round one, after Tannehill.
3. Right Tackle: Jake Long is one of the top left tackles in the league, but there is nothing across from him on the right side. Whichever quarterback is under center in 2012 is going to need protection. Mike Adams and Jonathon Martin are possible selections that may slip into the second round.


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Book Search
Supervision of Sandplay Therapy
Series: Supervision in the Arts Therapies
Supervision of Sandplay Therapy, the first book on this subject, is an internationally-based volume that describes the state of the art in supervision of sandplay therapy. Recognizing that practitioners are eager to incorporate sandplay therapy into their practice, Harriet Friedman and Rie...
Published July 20th 2007 by Routledge
Past, Present and Future
Sandplay is one of the fastest growing therapies. What are its origins, who were it pioneers, and how have they influenced the current practice of sandplay? What does the future hold? Rie Rogers Mitchell and Harriet S. Friedman have written a unique book that answers all these questions and many...
Published February 10th 1994 by Routledge


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N Wireless Mini USB Network Adapter - AU-4912
Learn more about N Wireless Mini USB Network Adapter:
Manufacturer: SAPIDO Mini Wireless Adapter
Mfg Part#: AU-4912
Sku: 219170653
See more in Adapters
|FROM THE MANUFACTURER: The small but powerful Sapido ultra-tiny AU-4912 Wireless N+ Mini USB Adapter is one of our best-sellers and is designed to take up little space and blends into your computer perfectly while streaming audio and video efficiently through its WMM technology. Though small, the AU-4912 complies with the latest 802.11n standard to enhance the quality of your wireless transfer rate up to 150Mbps. Inserting this USB adapter to your computer allows you to access the internet anywhere there is an open Wi-Fi signal. KEY FEATURES: (1) Superior Design and Wireless Speed: Created with Wireless-N (802.11n) technology and a 2dBi built-in antenna for speeds up to 150 Mbps. (2) Advanced Security: Connect to the internet by pressing the one-touch WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) Encryption button and keep unwanted users out of your wireless network. (3) Access Point Capabilities: Plug the AU-4912 into an Internet-enabled device to share the Internet connection with other devices (works with Windows XP, Vista, and 7 operating systems only). (4) Wireless Multi-Media: Prioritizes the streaming of video and audio files to ensure a smooth quality with minimal lag. (5) PSP Xlink Kai Support: With the software "Xlink Kai," play system-link games with your friends and family over the Internet. (6) Green WLAN technology: Consumes 50% less electricity with its power saving function. (7) Easy to Install: Comes with an installation disk to assist you to set up your wireless network quickly and easily. (8) Limited 1-year warranty. CUSTOMER SERVICE: The Sapido products are backed by superior customer support. If you need assistance, you can call us at 757-962-1485 from Monday to Friday 8am to 3:30pm EST or email us at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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RTOM Moongel Drum Muffle Gel (Pack of 4)
Roc N Soc NR Nitro Gas Lift Drum Throne
Pearl CH70 Boom Arm Cymbal Holder (with Gear Tilter)
Vic Firth 5A American Classic Hickory Wood Tip Drumsticks
Kaces 46" Hardware Bag w/Wheels
KickPort Sonic Bass Drum Enhancer in Black
Drum Dial Precision Drum Tuner
(9 reviews)
Vater 5A Los Angeles Hickory Drumsticks
Vic Firth Stereo Isolation Headphones
(11 reviews)
Wuhan Cymbals 8" Splash Cymbal
(5 reviews)
Wuhan Cymbals 12" Wuhan China Cymbal
Vic Firth Economy Wood Tip Drum Sticks
Evans 22" Clear EMAD2 Bass Drum Head
HQ Percussion Real Feel 12" Practice Pad
To automatically re-order this item before you run out, select the recurring order option during checkout.
An excellent all-purpose mallet. Wood core. L = 14 1/2" Head = 1 11/16".
This versatile line of timpani mallets is tonal in character and designed to create different colors and qualities of articulation. Persimmon shafts provide a darker sound. The balance and weight of each model make articulation effortless.
|Tim Genis Series
|Other Features
|Persimmon shafts


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Information on the transition from the insurance-based fire services levy to the Fire Services Property Levy.
Information for estate agents, conveyancers, owners corporation managers, builders and tradespeople, and retirement village operators.
Download our free app for information on your refund, warranty and lay-by rights - available for iPhone and Android.
Know how to use your consumer rights when purchases go wrong by playing our challenge - Party for your rights.
Find out more in our fair trading section.
Get information on selling your car privately, with a trade-in, or at auction. We also provide details on transfer of registration and roadworthy certificates.
When you hire a car, you are entitled to a number of 'consumer guarantees'. Find out how to protect yourself when you hire a car.
Information on how to apply to the Motor Car Traders Guarantee Fund for compensation for a loss suffered after purchasing a car.
The Victorian Supreme Court recently found that private car park operators cannot levy 'parking fines' or prosecute motorists who stay overtime or do not display a ticket. Find out what the decision means for consumers.
Information for motor car traders.
Information on popular consumer topics, including how to contact us, available in more than 20 community languages.
View a complete list of our forms and publications.
Information about legislation, public consultation and reviews administered by Consumer Affairs Victoria.
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Subscribe to our email updates or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
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Download copies of our research papers.
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Explains the role and responsibilities of the Business Licensing Authority in Victoria and provides contact details.
Useful links and contact details to help you run your business.
Resources and tips to help your business run smoothly.
Health and fitness centres generally use standard form consumer contracts - that is, contracts prepared by the business and offered on a 'take it or leave it' basis.
Under the Australian Consumer Law, a term in a standard form contract may be declared unfair if it:
All businesses, including health and fitness centres, should ensure their contracts comply with unfair contract terms laws. For more information, view our Unfair contract terms page.
We have worked with health and fitness centres to remove or modify unfair consumer contract terms, including terms that:
Contracts that include such terms are not automatically considered unfair, as only a court or tribunal can determine this.
We continue to engage with businesses to ensure their contracts comply with the law. If a business refuses to modify its contracts, we may take further action such as applying to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) for orders.
Consumers may also take their own action at VCAT or in a court if they believe a term to be unfair. If the contract terms are found to be unfair and void, those terms are treated as though they never existed. If the contract can operate without the unfair term, it will still be binding.
Recreational businesses, including health and fitness centres, can limit their liability under consumer law for death or personal injury as long as they notify consumers of any limitation before they agree to buy the services.
Businesses wishing to limit their liability for the first time must use the wording set out on our Recreational businesses - wording to limit liability for death or personal injury page.
Last updated: 05/05/2015
We are Victoria's consumer affairs regulator, helping create a competitive and fair marketplace for businesses and consumers.
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Need Help Choosing a Doctor?
Call 1-800-82-SHARP to speak to a physician referral nurse. Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm.
I always wanted to be a physician. From my earliest thought, I wanted to be a mother and a physician and I am lucky to have accomplished both. I enjoy empowering my patients on the path to healing. Healing doesn't come out of a prescription bottle alone. I believe in the miracle of the human body and its ability to heal itself. My job is to help you get there.
In my spare time, I love being outdoors. I love hiking and skiing and I love to travel.
Sharp accepts most health insurance. If your plan is not listed below, please call your insurance provider to verify coverage.
We have received your request. A physician referral nurse will contact you within one business day.OK


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Southern District of Iowa
April 17, 2012 – U.S. Marshals have joined the Des Moines Police Department in the search for accused sex offender James Julius Beaudrie, 37. Beaudrie is charged with 8 counts of third-degree sexual abuse. The allegations against Beaudrie include the sexual victimization of a child under the age of 16. U.S. Marshals are offering up to a $3500 reward for information leading to James Julius Beaudrie's arrest. Anyone with information on Beaudrie's whereabouts is asked to call U.S. Marshals in Des Moines at 515-284-6240; U.S. Marshals Headquarters at 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332); the Des Moines Police Department at 515-283-4832, Polk County Crime Stoppers at 515-223-1400, or local law enforcement. Callers may remain anonymous.November 10, 2010 - A team of law enforcement officers led by U.S. Marshals arrested a major fugitive wanted by Florida authorities today in Knoxville, Iowa. Jason Phillip Haikey was being sought on warrants issued in Orlando, Orange County, Florida charging him with attempted murder and armed robbery. The charges stemmed from Haikey and another man, Mark Ward, allegedly shooting a third man during a robbery attempt in Orlando in October. The victim survived, and Ward was arrested by local authorities in Florida shortly after the shooting. June 10, 2010 - U.S. Marshals are offering a $2500 reward for information leading to the arrest of Napoleon Mbonyunkiza (aka Mbonyunkiza Napoleon). The Polk County District Court issued an arrest warrant for Mbonyunkiza after he failed to appear for a preliminary hearing on charges of Third-degree Sexual Abuse, Dependant Adult Abuse with Serious Injury, and Neglect or Abandonment of a Dependant Person. Mbonyunkiza is accused of sexually abusing an adult patient with disabilities while she was in his care at a private care facility in Des Moines. March 01, 2010 - A major fugitive wanted on an outstanding federal arrest warrant has been arrested by a team of law enforcement officers led by U.S. Marshals in Aurora, Colorado. Antwan Cortez White was being sought on a federal arrest warrant issued in the Southern District of Iowa charging him with Failure to Appear for Trial.


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Walter Hurls Complete Game Victory
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. - Junior right-hander Corey Walter hurled a complete game to lead the WVU baseball team to a 5-1 victory over New Orleans on Saturday afternoon at Hawley Field.
WVU improved to 14-13 overall, and recorded 12 hits to New Orleans' five. The Mountaineers committed two errors.
Walter (2-2) pitched the first complete game by a Mountaineer pitcher this season, striking out eight with one walk in 9.0 innings. He allowed one run and scattered five hits.
Senior catcher Alan Filauro batted 3-for-4 with two RBIs, while junior left fielder Jacob Rice hit two doubles, drove in one run and scored a run.
The win also gave coach Randy Mazey his 200th career victory as he previously made head coaching stops at Charleston Southern and East Carolina.
Junior first baseman Ryan McBroom hit his second homer in as many days with a solo shot to left field, giving WVU a 1-0 lead after two innings. The homer was his fifth of the season and ranks him second on the team behind junior designated hitter Matt Frazer (6).
A two-run single to center field by Filauro extended WVU's lead to 3-0 in the bottom of the fourth. Junior third baseman Ryan Tuntland and McBroom drew walks to start the frame and were sacrificed by sophomore second baseman Justin Fox prior to Filauro's single.
Reese Kanter scored New Orleans' lone run of the game in the sixth inning with a solo home run just clearing the right field fence.
Rice's second double of the day drove in sophomore center fielder Bobby Boyd in the seventh inning, while Rice later scored on a wild pitch to bring the WVU advantage to 5-1.
Lefty Stone Speer took the loss for the Privateers, allowing five runs on 11 hits in 7.0 innings with four strikeouts and four walks.
The teams conclude the four game series this afternoon with live stats available on WVUsports.com.
Football: KJ Dillon Preseason
Football: Tony Gibson Preseason
Football: Skyler Howard Preseason
Coach Dana Holgorsen
2015 Bob Huggins Fantasy Camp
Womens Soccer: Ashley Lawrence Goal vs. NL


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In the second hour, we previewed the AFC in anticipation of the Hall of Fame game kicking off the NFL preseason before talking to Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated about the NBA.
Red Coleman
Red started 3 Shades of Blue towards the end of the 2006-07 season, as the fans were hoping to get lucky in the lottery and select Greg Oden or Kevin Durant. (We all know how that played out.) He wanted Grizzlies' fans to have a source of information and commentary equal to what other teams' fans had with the various blogs out there. So began a wild ride that continues even now. From a fan in the cheap seats to an ESPN-sponsored journalist to the proud editor of the best Memphis Grizzlies blog out there.


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Back in the Swing of Things
3 Attachment(s)
Getting warmer outside, and things have settled down a bit, so I'm back in the WFO mode. Several firings for pizza so far, and starting to experiment with roasting more.
Yesterday Put in a Boston Butt and let it cook while I made some clams in one of my paella pans. Later on put a Turkey in and let both meats sit in overnight. Awoke this am and oven was 375 still, not bad without an insulated door (just a wooden door with sheetmetal on the inside).
The clams were a semi success, mainly because I used a pan that was too small and many of the clams just did not open the way I liked. I transferred to a larger pan and finished on the rangetop. Lesson Learned...
Boston Butt was amazing. Rubbed it down with a spice rub and let it roast wtih a good fire, sealed in foil for 3-4 hours, then before I put the door on for the night I poured some apple juice in the bottom. Amazing results.
The turkey I was not sure about. We got it super sale after Christmas, and just froze it. My wife thawed it, so I threw it in the oven. I put it in right before I put the door on last night, and it cooked over night. Surprisingly the meat was still very juicy in the breasts. The lower bird was amazing! It kind of cooked in it's own juices, and turned out basically like a turkey confit. Will definitely do it again.
At the moment have some veg roasting, Cauliflower, fingerlings, and onions. Also put in an asian rubbed pot roast, gonna let her go all day and take it out tonight. Did alot of cooking over the weekend to eat on over the week. Hope to do that alot this season.
Pics attached of what I got.
Re: Back in the Swing of Things
Can't wait to see the pics!
Re: Back in the Swing of Things
That looks pretty good ! wonder why the clams didn't come out looked good though can't wait to get started
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Opportunity for Comment: Transfer Guidance Bulletin
We are requesting comments on a draft of an upcoming NARA Bulletin that replaces all previous guidance on identifying file formats acceptable for use when transferring permanent records to NARA. There are two parts to the draft; the draft Bulletin (.pdf) and an accompanying table of formats (.pdf).
The Bulletin applies to all electronic records that have been scheduled as permanent. It includes a number of changes in the way agencies should select and use file formats while giving more flexibility to agencies. It will include a link to the attached tables with specific file formats that will be updated as needed.
Please make your comments about the draft Bulletin and any suggestions by November 18, 2013. We will review all the comments we receive.
Thank you for your input!
James Brown November 1, 2013 at 2:31 pm
Can you provide a list of vendors that are capable of conversion of one format to an acceptable format (example, .MTS to .AVI)
Mark Conrad November 1, 2013 at 3:20 pm
Where should we send the comments? Are copies of the two .pdf files with comments inserted acceptable?
Jeff Reed November 1, 2013 at 4:16 pm
Overall I'm impressed with the improvements in the guidance. There's one piece that I stumble on: what does "appropriate, professional quality, dedicated photographic equipment" mean? I work in an office that creates photographic images from scenes and subjects (not digitizing photos or text) for documenting and communicating NARA's business, much of which will be transfered to NARA as permanent records. We use a range of equipment, of which some probably falls in and some falls outside of this vague catagorization. "Appropriate" and "dedicated" seem unnecessary or unreasonable which leaves "professional quality" as the guiding phrase to elicit some desired result. Can you describe cut-offs that divide professional from unprofessional? Do you have examples of specific equipment that falls in or out of this catagory to guide people, especially closer to the dividing line rather than at he obvious extremes?
Arian Ravanbakhsh November 6, 2013 at 9:33 am
Mark and Jeff – I know that the format team is going to reach out directly to you to respond to your questions.
Mark Conrad November 12, 2013 at 4:18 pm
I am forwarding detailed comments to the format team. I have some general concerns about these two documents.
The last sentence of Section 11 of the Format Transfer Bulletin needs to be emphasized:
"Agencies that maintain records in formats that do not conform to this Bulletin should contact the appropriate NARA office (as listed in Section 11), before migrating, converting, or altering the permanent records to meet the NARA format requirements."
Given that the records to be transferred under this guidance are permanent records the over-arching rule should be, "First do no harm." It would be a very good idea to have a sentence preceding each table that says, "If you do not currently maintain the records in one of the formats listed below please contact the appropriate NARA office before migrating, converting, or altering the permanent records to meet the NARA format requirements." This would be especially important for Tables 2 through 4.3. The text accompanying these tables include instructions for converting records from analog to digital formats which would seem to contradict the sentence in Section 6 of the Format Transfer Bulletin.
These documents do not address the case when components needed to render a record or several records are stored in more than one file and those files are in different formats (e.g.,ESRI shape files). The documents should include explicit instructions not to change any of these files without first consulting the appropriate NARA office. Converting one or more of these files to a new format may render the record(s) unrecoverable.
Jason R. Baron November 17, 2013 at 9:19 pm
Section 8 of the draft Bulletin concerns "What other steps should I take before transferring permanent electronic records?" In addition to the guidance provided, I recommend NARA staff considering adding an additional bullet which would make clear that, to the extent feasible, agencies should attempt to tag or highlight personally identifiable information (PII) as contained in individual records, in order that NARA staff may perform appropriate redactions prior to opening permanent records up for access to the public. The entire topic of how best to deal with PII content in permanent electronic records transferred pursuant to the 2019 mandate is itself perhaps worthy of a standalone future bulletin.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
(Views expressed are my own and not necessarily those of any institution I am affiliated with.)


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School Staff and Faculty
School of Natural and Behavioral Sciences
Nick Griffis, M.S.
Nick Griffis received his B.S. at the University of Southern Mississippi in 1990, then his M.S. at the University of Southern Mississippi in 1993. He teaches courses for the William Carey Biology Department including Anatomy and Physiology I and II, General Biology, and Microbiology. He teaches Clinical Anatomy I and II laboratory, and Maintains the Clinical Anatomy laboratory facility for the College of Osteopathic Medicine. His interest areas include Human Anatomy, Immunology, and Microbiology. He joined the WUCCOM team in 2010.
Danny Owens
Kelly Caffery
Diane Williams
Paul Cotten
Charlotte McShea
Susan Curry
Shelia Martin
Everett A. Roark, PhD
Dr. Roark earned his Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology from Jackson State. While attending Jackson State he participated in research projects at Jackson State University, the University of Georgia, the University of Missouri-Columbia, the University of Chicago and the Mississippi Medical Center. After graduation, Dr. Roark worked as a research technician at the University of Chicago where he investigated eukaryotic protein trafficking. He earned his Ph.D. in Microbiology and Genetics from Northwestern University.
Dr. Roark has been continuously funded throughout his research career as both a research technician and a graduate student. He has received several awards through his career and has been published in multiple peer reviewed journals. His research interests include protein trafficking, bacterial pathogenesis, cell physiology and genetics. Dr. Roark has taught many biology classes including Genetics, Microbiology, Cell physiology, Graduate Genomics, Bioethics, and Histology. He has developed and taught several courses including online and brick & mortar.
Dr. Roark has taught Medical Genetics and Medical Microbiology since joining the William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2010.
Jessica C. Taylor, PhD
Dr. Taylor earned her Bachelor's of Science degree from the University of Southern Mississippi in Exercise Science. She earned her PhD in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Missouri in 2008. She was continuously funded throughout her graduate studies through a Biomedical Sciences Departmental Fellowship and the University of Missouri Predoctoral Exercise Training Grant. She did postdoctoral training in Pharmacology and Neuroscience at the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth.
She has received several awards throughout her career and has been published in multiple peer reviewed journals. Dr. Taylor's research interests include neural control of the circulation, peripheral arterial disease and exercise physiology.
Danny Owens
Paul Cotten
Charlotte McShea
Susan Curry
Amanda Knesal
Kelsey Johnson
Marc Daniels
Marc C. Daniels, Professor of Biological Sciences
B.S. Florida State University, 1989
Ph.D. University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1996
Courses taught: A & P 1 and 2, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Evolution & Intelligent Design, Cell Physiology
Interest areas: Molecular Biology and gene expression


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Marissa Mayer, chief executive officer of Yahoo! Inc., speaks during a panel session on day four of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland in 2014. Jason Alden
Upstarts, newsmakers and influencers who caught our attention on Wednesday, May 14:
Yes, a television sitcom about selfies. See below. Would you watch?
Alex is a Brooklyn-based freelance journalist. He writes about media entrepreneurs and creatives for Upstart Business Journal.
If you are commenting using a Facebook account, your profile information may be displayed with your comment depending on your privacy settings. By leaving the 'Post to Facebook' box selected, your comment will be published to your Facebook profile in addition to the space below.
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Please check back at a later stage.
That AGA-T2 is an update to the AGA-T rebuildable atomizer.
What's different from the previous version (the AGA-T):
Showing reviews 1-10 of 17 | Next
Posted by CTB on 24th Mar 2014
Use all my genesis stuff as assisted drippers. Works great for that at a good price point. The chamber is a bit big for my taste.
Posted by wesley on 7th Oct 2013
This is by far the best deal for an AGA-T2 and they are so easy to build coils on!
Posted by David on 15th Sep 2013
Received my Aga T2. Did 8 wraps of 30 gauge Kanthal with 400 mesh SS wick. Up and runninng in 7 mins. No hot spots and works like a fog machine. Excellent!
Posted by Gently - on 12th Sep 2013
aga-t2 was what as expected. fiddly at first but a must have for provape superiority.
SideNote: Excellent service from KidneyPuncher. Arrived quickly and professionally packed. no product flaws whatsoever. Clean Experience. "I'll Be Back"
Posted by Tim on 9th Sep 2013
Best deal for the AGA-T2 glass and polycarb tanks included with the price.This is my first RBA tank had it up and running in no time with supplied mesh and wire (did not even have to use the wire I purchased along with the tank :-) )
Posted by Mike on 7th Sep 2013
This one is great. The only change I made was to open the air hole a little. Looks great, performs great. Perfect diameter for a Vamo v2. I'll probably be buying more of these for other set ups.
Posted by Unknown on 2nd Sep 2013
Nice atty dual coil set up glass tank only down side small post screws
Posted by Bradly Belko on 27th Aug 2013
this is by far my favorite atomizer. you dont have to use SS mesh or rope. I use a horizontal coil and wick similar to that of a dripper. tilt to saturate wick and an amazing!
sadlyI received this product with a blemished top cap. when I brought this to the attention to the owner with pictures attached to the email, he immediately rectified theproblem. great product, better customer service.
Posted by Tim on 3rd Jul 2013
After reading about genesis style atomizers I quickly found that a lot of them are quite pricey. I also found a lot of folks recommending and talking about the AGA-T series.
Being relatively new to vaping in general, I decided to try the genesis style rebuildables. After seeing tons of videos I had a hard time getting it to hit any better than my T3 clearos. I also had a hard time getting it to fire up on my evic - either too low a resistance or would show as "Atomizer Short" errors.
After monkeying and practicing with the wick and coils I finally got it up and running. This is quite possibly one of the best vaping experiences I've had to date. Pure flavor, awesome vapor, and in general a damned good vape!
Currently using SS cable wick with a piece of 500 mesh at the top. I'm finding that the SS mesh wicks are easier to get working reliably, however, the SS cable is a definite winner once it's working right.
Posted by cbrociuos on 26th Jun 2013
works very well. construction is great too. great price. what more can I say. :)
Showing reviews 1-10 of 17 | Next


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Jordan's trade deficit narrows by 24 percent
Jordan's trade deficit narrowed by 24 percent in the first five months of 2002. The Kingdom exported 53 million Jordanian dinars ($75 million) worth of merchandise in the first five months of 2002, a 17 percent increase compared to figures from the same period last year, official figures revealed.
The Kingdom's imports decreased by four percent from January to May from JD 1.4 million to JD 1.3 million. Re-exports increased to JD 173 million from JD 120 million during the same period. Iraq was Jordan's largest product market, importing JD 108 million worth of goods from the Kingdom, a 19 percent share. The United States came in second place with a JD 75 million total.
Jordan's main trading partners over the last decade were Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Some 74 percent of Jordan's total exports headed for Arab markets over the past 10 years, with imports from those markets representing 84 percent of the total. — (menareport.com)
© 2002 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)


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Dividends Do Lie Sometimes
With interest rates at historical lows there's lots written about how to increase the return on your investments and cash. One of the hottest topics is investing in dividend stocks for income. Now, don't get me wrong, I like dividends as much as the next person, but they are not without their flaws. The following is a guest post by Barbara Friedberg, editor-in-chief of Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance.com.
The Down Side of Dividends
I just checked the price on a long time holding of mine, Nokia (NOK). After dropping in price 7.62% yesterday, the price is $6.42. At this price, the dividend of $.57 yields a return of 8.78%.
Hold on, before you jump in for the 8.78% dividend, listen to my story.
Do Not Do What I Did
Here's the tale of the Nokia shares I purchased:
I spent a lot of time researching and evaluating the stock before each purchase and the prospects at the time of purchase were good. In fact, I was proven right as the stock price rose to $40.00 in 2007.
You're probably thinking (as I am), Barb, you should have sold in 2007 for $40.00. Of course, I should have, but that's the topic for another article.
Between 2005 and 2011, the dividend yield has bounced around from a low of 1.5% to a high of 8.1% as the payout went up and down.
The Takeaway
- Share prices bounce around.
- Dividends go up and down.
- Stock ownership is owning a piece of the company.
- Every company has its successes and failures.
- There is no such thing as a "sure thing."
Dividends are wonderful if they keep going up and the underlying share price remains stable or increases. Unfortunately, even after judicious research, stock prices fall and dividends are cut. Approach investing with the understanding that although over time, the direction of equity prices and dividends has been positive; there are bumps along the way.
Barb is a portfolio manager, MBA professor, and writes to educate, inspire, and motivate for wealth in money and life. Stop by her site to pick up a free copy of her eBook 20 Minute Guide to Investing.
Tags: dividends
11 Responses to "Dividends Do Lie Sometimes"
Have you looked at the payout ratio of Nokia? Can they continue to afford to pay?
I would certainly be wary of investing in Nokia now. I did the same with Worldcom and we all know how that turned out. That is what caused me to seriously look at using protective puts. To me, it is worth the protection to prevent watching a stock decline like this. I know that I lack the discipline to sell but the put options protect my capital and protect me from myself and hoping for a rebound.
I've been hearing a lot about dividend investing. Thanks for shining the light on the possible downside. Are you still holding on? Looking forward to your follow up article!
I know that many people fall into the trap of chasing yield, without every performing a proper analysis of the company. Your experience highlights the fact that a high dividend yield can be a sign of a stock that just experience a terrible, and often justified, fall.
@Options-I certainly agree, when a stock has unclear earnings, future, and growth prospects, any investment is quite risky. A protective put would have been a good idea….:)
@Buck-Dividend investing, like any other stock investing has it's risks. Dividends are nice, but when the stock price drops and you sell, you still loose money.
@Khaleef-If something looks too good to be true, you better do a lot of homework before investing.
Has any one bought shares in WaMu or city in 2007/early 2008? Well I did, I will write about the biggest monetary mistake of my life someday on my blog
Thanks for this article, Barb. I'm trying to learn all I can about dividend investing and this is one angle that hadn't occurred to me.
Good post Barb. It's easy to forget that every business, like the economy, goes through cycles. Nothing can go up forever, which is why we're supposed to diversify and hold on to investments for the long term. At least that's what I was taught. I realize after reading this that I have a lot to learn about dividend investing!
It's true that dividend paying stocks are constantly touted as the best way to generate a steady stream of income but they also come with a risk. Decreasing share value!
Sorry to hear about Nokia, but the recession really hit every company hard. The only problem is, with the smart phone trend do you see Nokia coming back as a true competitor? I don't think they'l ever be able to regain that market share they once had.


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Yesterday was a feast of entertainment. With the grandkids to see Shrek 3 in the morning; and to the Los Angeles opera's Das Rheingold in the evening. The similarities between the movie and the opera were greater than the differences. Both tell tales of human emotion by way of gods, monsters, exaggerated villains, and improbably heros. Both are vastly extravagant visual delights of impossible color and texture. (more…)
Archive for May, 2010
Das Rheingold, Shrek 3, and Mining Opera
Posted in opera, tagged das reingold, das rheingold, LA opera, shrek on May 30, 2010 | Leave a Comment »
Sunday Mining Sermon: Perth, Gallowai Stanfield, and Bill C-300
Posted in Australia and New Zealand, Church, Investing & Finance, tagged Bill C-300, gallowai, perth, ross stanfield, sermon on May 29, 2010 | 2 Comments »
Hence from Perth on a gruelling flight to LAX. A flight designed to tire you out if you need more than four hours a night sleep, even though you theoretically get four from Perth to Sydney and twelve from Sydney to Los Angeles. At least you have plenty of time to contemplate the state of the world as long hours pass by in a small seat to the symphony of plane engines and iPad music. Still you must ask: why does anybody in their right mind willingly go to Australia from North America when they have not yet explored the Rockies or the four-corners of Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. (more…)
Aussie mining backflip to tax the mind
Posted in Australia and New Zealand, Investing & Finance, Jobs and Salaries, tagged Australia, mining, rudd, tax on May 27, 2010 | Leave a Comment »
Still in Perth and fascinated by the fights over taxation of the Australian mining industry. Many pages of the local newspapers continue to be devoted to the fight. Sadly there is little clarity or consensus building. The headline in the national newspaper is Rudd to backflip on mining rate. Rudd is the national prime minister who has been leading this debacle. (more…)
More Australian Upside-Down Mining Agony
Posted in Australia and New Zealand, consulting, Investing & Finance, Jobs and Salaries, tagged Australia, invest, mining, tax on May 26, 2010 | Leave a Comment »
Another day beating the bushes in Perth, mostly reading the newspapers and talking to consultants to the mining industry about the proposed new 40 % tax on mining. The arguments degenerate into the absurd with government ministers justifying their proposal to impose new taxes on the basis of outdated reports from obscure USA universities, and disputed figures from taxing authorities. All prompted by accusations of lies, damn lies, and statistics. (more…)
Australian mining tax: investor advice from the trenches
Posted in Australia and New Zealand, Investing & Finance, Jobs and Salaries, tagged Australia, invest, mining, tax on May 24, 2010 | Leave a Comment »
A good friend in the Australian mining industry says the proposed new tax on the mining industry will be a good thing. He says it will slow down the mining industry and that will be good, for things are still so hot and there is still such a skills shortage, that anything that gives the industry a breather is to be welcomed. (more…)
Tax mining, Australia upside down style
Posted in consulting, Investing & Finance, opera, tagged Australia, mining, opera house, sydney, tax on May 20, 2010 | 1 Comment »
Today I arrived in Sydney, Australia. You know this is a strange place immediately: it takes five minutes to get through immigration and one hour and five minutes to get through customs. Enter the USA or Canada and the time is spent getting through immigration and they wave you through customs. Australia seems not to care who comes in; but they are neurotic about what you bring in. Every other country I have visited cares who comes in; but they are oblivious about what you bring in. I stood in line for over an hour so that they could confiscate the sealed packet of raisins and nuts I usually carry to ward off sudden hunger. Obviously things are upside down here. (more…)
Irony or insight? Oil, gas, mining, poverty, and jails
Posted in About the news, First Nations, Jobs and Salaries, North America, Oil sands, tagged aboriginal, Fort McMurray, poverty, ripple effects on May 19, 2010 | Leave a Comment »
Every now and then, I get an e-mail from Ripple Effects Ltd in Fort McMurray. Here is a copy of the latest which is a collection of seemingly unrelated new items. I am not so sure about the unrelated part. As I read it, there is sadness and an insight into why there is poverty and why poor people disproportionately find themselves in jail. I leave you to decide. But seems to me these issues arise too often in aboriginal communities around the world to be mere coincidence. And they are problems that occur regardless of the presence or absence of mines. Must be something in the system? (more…)


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First UK Trek Bicycle Store opens in Milton Keynes
New store opens today
While other parts of the economy might be having a tough time, the cycle industry is booming if the number of new bike shops opening is anything to go by – the latest is the UK's first Trek Bicycle Store which opened this morning in Milton Keynes.
As you'd expect the new store, is big, 3700 square ft, and it's packed with all things Trek - from their full UK range of bikes plus all the Bontrager components, wheels, shoes, helmets accessories and clothing anyone cyclist could ever need. The new store also boasts state of the art workshop facilities and a dedicated Project One area where you can sit down in store and customise your new Project One Madone to your heart's content.
This is Trek's first foray in to stand alone stores in Britain, Giant and Specialized both already have chains of their own stores in this country.The Trek store follows a similar model being a partnership between Trek and and an established local cycle retailer - in this case East Street Cycles. In many ways it is a similar model to the one in the car industry where local dealers, and even chains, are tied in with one manufacturer.
The new store is right next to Milton Keynes Central train station, and is part of the even bigger 22,000 square ft Cotswolds Outdoor Explor More store which also includes a branch of Costa Coffee… handy for those cyclists that never like to be too far from possible refreshment. There's on-site parking too.
"Milton Keynes is an ideal location for a Trek store. With miles of redways, quiet
lanes for road riding, and local trails nearby for mountain bikes, there's a bit of
everything. The city has fantastic demographic diversity, great people, and a
promising future," said Bird. "Trek is a marquee brand that consistently produces
market-leading product. It was a perfect combination for a new store."
It probably doesn't do any harm that Trek UK are based in Milton Keynes too, so stocking shouldn't ever be an issue either.
In other retail news Cycle Surgery yesterday announced that they will be opening two new central London stores, one a 4000 square footer in Ropemaker Place on Chiswell St in Moorgate and the other a Spcialized Concept store in a new retail development in Covent Garden. Meanwhile onling retail giant Chain Reaction Cycles has announced it will be opening a bricks and mortar store in Belfast the company's second shop – it already has what must surely be the world's best stocked bike shop attached to the giant warehouse at its Northern Irish HQ.
Anyone outside the bike business and looking in might to tempted to think "Recession? What recession?".
posted by simonmb [360 posts]
1st April 2011 - 15:13
Not exactly the best place in MK, a long way to walk from the Centre or Xscape, or having to battle with the train station for parking, will stick to Phil Corley when going to MK
posted by jimc101 [62 posts]
1st April 2011 - 22:49
It's certainly a good industry to be in. With people looking for cheaper alternative forms of transport and cycling infrastructure undergoing constant improvement; the humble bicycle should make a resurgence.
posted by _foxie_ [9 posts]
2nd April 2011 - 11:56
Not exactly the best place in MK, a long way to walk from the Centre or Xscape, or having to battle with the train station for parking, will stick to Phil Corley when going to MK
There's loads of free parking down here (with a 3 hour time restriction to prevent station users clogging it up). Also, some sheffield bike stands out the front to lock your bikes to. I've also sent the saturday lad out to "time-trial" the ride to/from Xscape, I reckon it's only a 6-7 minute redway ride from CMK.
posted by _foxie_ [9 posts]
2nd April 2011 - 12:21
posted by Tony Farrelly [4196 posts]
2nd April 2011 - 12:21
-foxie_ has beaten me to it. I've added the bit about parking in to the story as well
posted by Tony Farrelly [4196 posts]
2nd April 2011 - 12:23
If parking is a problem, you could always catch a bus.
posted by handlebarcam [545 posts]
2nd April 2011 - 12:52


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The Berlin based studio have just updated their site including this identity for Ny Musikk. They are some of the nicest guys I've met this year and consistently produce great work.
'This year's festival was the last in the series and had the theme of 'sinne' (anger). For the posters, banners and the brochure, we worked with the 'beauty' of traditional calligraphy contrasted with swearwords like 'helvete' (hell) and 'faen' (goddamn).'