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Wal-Mart seeks U.S. suppliers' pitches
Posted: May 6, 2014 at 3 a.m.
Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is summoning current and would-be suppliers to the first-ever "Open Call Summit" at its home office in Bentonville, asking them to show up with their best ideas for manufacturing more goods in the United States.
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We have all heard the phrase A picture is worth a thousand words before. When we are presented with unfamiliar, large or otherwise cumbersome data it can be beneficial to construct a graph a diagram of the data to help us visualize patterns and trends in numbers. By making a picture of the data we are able to use our visual senses to help our analytical mind interpret data. Making graphs by hand is also a good kinesthetic exercise, allowing us to become more familiar with the information that we have collected.
When we collect data the easiest way for us to collect it is to use a data table, columns are for the kind of data we are recording, rows are for each individual observation. For example, I watched the cars going by my house one morning, I counted the number of cars that went by every ten minutes and built the following table.
If I look at this table closely, I can see that early (7:00 7:20 AM) there is almost no traffic and as I get closer to 9:00 (when many people start work) traffic gets very heavy, but once work has started traffic tends to slow down. This is a small table and we can see the patterns fairly clearly. What if this was a much larger table, what if the numbers were not as easy to understand, they might be very big or very small. Perhaps the relationship between them is not so clear as in this example. By constructing a diagram that visually represents the relationship between the variables, the time and the number of cars in our example, we can gain a better understanding of our data.
Typically we use special paper, graph paper, that has a grid of lines that are usually regularly spaced at right angles to each other to draw graphs by hand. The spacing of the lines is not as important as our ability to define an appropriate scale for our graph. We also want to use a rule or other straight edge when we draw lines on our graph paper, not just for neatness but because our measurements later on will be made from the lines that we draw.
It is important to learn some terms when working with graphs. Here is a sample graph plotting the following data. (In this example it is not important where the data came from or what it means, it is just being used to help us describe the graph format.)
A graph is defined by two (or more) axes. The x-axis or more correctly abscissa is the axis where we plot our independent variable, the variable that we choose and control. The y-axis or ordinate is the axis on which we plot our dependent variable (the one that DEPENDS on our independent variable). The point where the two axes cross is called the origin of the graph.
The scale is probably the most important part of the graph next to our data. The scale determines what values we have assigned to the grid lines on the paper. In this case I used four grid lines for every unit of value on both axes. This means that every line has a value of 0.25. With some practice you should be able to estimate between your finest markings on your scale down to about 2/10ths of the division or in this case about 0.03 units. In this example that is about 1% of the full scale of this graph! This is part of what makes a graph such a powerful tool, not only can it help us visualize data, but we can accurately read values from a properly constructed graph. When making your first few graphs it may take several tries to get the scale quite right.
Mark a data point on your graph with a thin but easy to distinguish mark. Use your scale and count over first on the abscissa then up (or down) on the ordinate. To help you keep track of where you should put the point use your straight edge to mark the abscissa and then move along it to the correct place on the ordinate. Some people like to make simple dots when making their graphs, I think that they can be too easily confused as errant pen marks. The coordinates are the values (X and Y) from our table. We often will not include these on a graph but were included here in illustration.
Here is an example of a graph constructed from our sample data. When I chose the scale for this graph I chose to make each grid line on the abscissa worth five minutes and each grid line on the ordinate to be worth one car. I used red to mark the values because it is a contrasting color. My data is well spaced and uses the full page, making my graph easy to read. (Click on the graph above for a larger image.)
Graphs are an important way to represent scientific data. They allow students to both visually and kinesthetically interact with the data they have collected. Soon we will discuss using your computer to make graphs. In case you have trouble finding graph paper (ask in your local office supply store) here is a link to an image of graph paper you can print at http://www.printfree.com .
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News & Public Affairs
Tampa Tiger Bay Club - Sen. Justice, Rep. Holman, Rep. Reed listen06/29/07 Seán Kinane
WMNF Drive-Time News Friday Listen to this entire show:
Three state lawmakers who represent the Tampa Bay region were the featured speakers at todayâs Tiger Bay Club in downtown Tampa. Senator Charlie Justice, Representatives Ed Holman and Betty Reed spoke about the subject on everyoneâs mind ⦠the recent property tax cut passed by the state legislature. WMNFâs Sean Kinane has this report.
In a special session earlier this month, the Florida Legislature passed two measures to reduce property taxes. The first mandated that all cities and...Be the first to comment
Andrew Keen Part II - The Internet Emperor has no clothes listen06/29/07 Mitch E. Perry
WMNF Drive-Time News Friday Listen to this entire show:
Andrew Keen is the author of the provocative new book, "The Cult of the Amateur:How Today's Internet is Killing Our Culture". Here's the 2nd part of our interview.Be the first to comment
Cato Institute Author on health care06/29/07 Arielle Stevenson
WMNF Drive-Time News Friday Listen to this entire show:
As Michael Mooreâs film on Health care in America, âSickoâ opens tonight in Tampa and across the country, health care has never been a bigger issue.
Earlier this week we heard from Jonathan Cohn, who has written the book ,âSickâ- about how U.S.â health care system has failed American citizens.
Now, a different perspectiveâ¦Michael Cannon is the director of Health Care Studies at the Cato Instituteâ¦He co wrote the book, âHealthy Competitionâ with Michael Tanner.
T...Be the first to comment
Michael Cannon Interview listen06/29/07 by Arielle Stevenson
WMNF Drive-Time News Friday Listen to this entire show:
Michael Cannon, Director of Health Care Studies at The Cato Institute, co-wrote a book with Michael Tanner entitled Healthy Competition. The book argues that a healthy medical marketplace, grown from less government regulation, would open up the choices Americans have in health care options. And by paying less taxes to the government, Americans would be able to afford those choices. WMNF's Arielle Stevenson spoke with author Michael Cannon about his book, Health Competition.Be the first to comment
DCF says no mental patients waiting to get into hospitals now listen06/29/07 Mitch E. Perry
WMNF Drive-Time News Friday Listen to this entire show:
Last fall, the then head of the Department of Children and Families, Lucy Hadi, was threatened with jail, by a Pinellas County Judge for allowing mentally ill inmates to stay in the Pinellas County jail longer than 15 days.
Judges in other Florida counties also weighed motions to do the same. But with few hospital beds available, the state was threatened also with stiff fines for breaking the law.
Governor Charlie Crist and his DCF Secretary, Bob Butterworth, promised when they ...Be the first to comment
Nahla Al-Arian says goodbye to Tampa06/29/07 Mitch E. Perry
WMNF Drive-Time News Friday Listen to this entire show:
Nahla Al-Arian
Another chapter in the decade plus long Sami Al-Arian saga ends tomorrow.
Thatâs when the former USF Professorâs wife and their 2 youngest children will be leaving Tampa , and moving to Egypt.
Speaking this morning on the WMNF public affairs show True Talk, Nahla Al-Arian says she is moving mainly because of her children (roll tape#1 o.q.âand goâ)
Sami Al-Arian continues to be detained at a Virginia jail. Recently, a judge ordered him held until at least...Be the first to comment
Bill Heller says Florida GOP is lame in attacking him listen06/29/07 Mitch E. Perry
WMNF Drive-Time News Friday Listen to this entire show:
As Sean Kinane just reported, Florida Democrats are fuming over fliers being sent to their constituents accusing them of voting against tax relief.
The Flier was sent to the districts of several freshman house Democrats, including Keith Fitzgerald in Sarasota, and Janet Long and Bill Heller in St. Petersburg.
Heller told WMNF this afternoon that he was surprised about the attacks, considering the next election isnât for well over a year from now. And he said he and his fellow Demo...Be the first to comment
INTERVIEW WITH IRAQ COMBAT VETERAN PART TWO06/28/07 Robert Lorei
Radioactivity: Live Call-In (Thursday) Listen to this entire show:
NEXT WEâLL HEAR THE SECOND PART OF AN INTERVIEW WITH A 22 YEAR OLD COMBAT VETERAN, CLIFTON HICKS. WE HEARD THE FIRST PART OF THIS INTERVIEW ON TUESDAY. IN THAT INTERVIEW HICKS TALKED ABOUT THE LIMITED BASIC TRAINING HE RECEIVED, ABOUT THE LACK OF SANITATION FOR THE PEOPLE OF IRAQ, THE KILLING OF CIVILIANS BY U.S. SOLDIERS, DRUG USE BY MILITARY CONTRACTORS, HIS...Be the first to comment
TAMPA INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES PLAN TO CELEBRATE INDEPENDENT'S WEEK06/28/07 Robert Lorei
Radioactivity: Live Call-In (Thursday) Listen to this entire show:
NEXT WEEK IS THE SIXTH ANNUAL INDEPENDENTS WEEK, A WEEKLONG, NATIONWIDE CELEBRATION OF LOCALLY OWNED BUSINESSES. WEâRE JOINED NOW BY THREE MEMBERS OF THE TAMPA INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ALLIANCE: TIBA (www.tibatampa.org) IS AN AFFILIATE OF THE AMERICAN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ALLIANCE (AMIBA: WWW.AMIBA.NET), PART OF THE NATIONAL MOVEMENT TO REVERSE THE TREND OF NATIONAL CHAINS DISPLACING LOCALLY OWNED BUSINESSES.
LEE WOLFSON OF V...Be the first to comment
Progress Energy listen06/28/07 Kate Bradshaw
WMNF Drive-Time News Thursday Listen to this entire show:
This morning, Progress Energy celebrated the kickoff of its âSave The Wattsâ campaign. St. Petersburg mayor Rick Baker was among the speakers at the event, which was held on the front lawn of a South St. Petersburg Progress customer. Beneath a gazebo that could barely fend off the heat of the summer sun, Progress energy employees demonstrated various ways in which consumers can cut back their energy uses. And their energy costs.
Senior energy delivery analyst Tom Artau stood nea...Be the first to comment
Iorio announces elimination of 369 City of Tampa jobs listen06/28/07 Seán Kinane
WMNF Drive-Time News Thursday Listen to this entire show:
One hundred twenty City of Tampa full-time employees were notified today that they would be out of a job in three months. Mayor Pam Iorio said this afternoon that an additional 99 vacant positions and 133 part-time and seasonal positions would be eliminated. As WMNFâs Seán Kinane reports, these lay-offs will save the city $14 million dollars from the property-tax-funded General Fund.
Be the first to comment
Iorio: âWe are announcing today that we are laying of 219 positions from ⦠120 ...
Tampa residents will soon see their water rates increase â but reclaimed rates might drop listen06/28/07 Mitch E. Perry
WMNF Drive-Time News Thursday Listen to this entire show:
A proposal that will nearly double water rates for Tampa citizens over the next 5 years will go before the City Council in August. But today, Steve Dagnault, the Cityâs administrator for public works and utility services, said the city is considering lowering the price of reclaimed water, to encourage more residents and businesses to use it .(roll tape#1 o.q.âby using reclaimedâ) Tampa's reclaimed water project , known as STAR 1, ,has seen far fewer participants than city officials ha...Be the first to comment
Tampa City Council holds off on Ordinance dealing with neighborhood groups listen06/28/07 Mitch E. Perry
WMNF Drive-Time News Thursday Listen to this entire show:
Last week Tampa City Councilman Charlie Miranda questioned the appropriateness of a developer giving money to a neighborhood association. Saying he was uneasy about such side deals, he introduced a resolution that added a provision to the City Ethics Code, prohibiting requests for "money, service or other thing of value" in exchange for support or opposition to a matter pending before the council. Miranda also directed the city legal staff to change the city code so that rezoning petitions...Be the first to comment
Tampa City Council weighs in on Wetlands controversy listen06/28/07 Mitch E. Perry
WMNF Drive-Time News Thursday Listen to this entire show:
A week after the Hillsborough County Commission voted to eliminate their responsibility in regulating wetlands, the Tampa City Council intervened, because, as City Councilwoman Mary Mulhern said, âitâs our water tooâ.
Mulhern proposed having the Council send a letter to Governor Charlie Crist and the local legislative delegation expressing concern over the Countyâs vote. (roll tape#1 o.q.ââ¦.fairâ)
The Board of County Commissioners voted 4-3 to eliminate the $2 million do...Be the first to comment
Author Jonathan Cohn talks about his book Sick06/27/07 Dawn Morgan
WMNF Drive-Time News Wednesday Listen to this entire show:
Jonathan Cohn's book Sick looks at the American health care system through the stories of a few people who could not access the medical care that they needed. Each of its eight chapters reflects a different part of the health care system, from Medicaid and Medicare to the self insured. WMNF's Dawn Morgan spoke with author Jonathan Cohn. http://sickthebook.com/ http://www.tnr.com/Be the first to comment
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Sanyo SCP-3100
Info Photos Reviews 39 News Forum
Could it be any less visually appealing? Maybe when they start working with Nokia they will be even uglier. I like the quality of Sanyo and Nokia, but they do not have the corner on the looks market.
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Lays out the nuts and bolts of budgeting for video projects and shows how to create estimates, quotes, and invoices.
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The impact of military spending on economic growth: the case of North Cyprus
Feridun, Mete, Sawhney, Bansi and Shahbaz, Muhammad (2011) The impact of military spending on economic growth: the case of North Cyprus. Defence and Peace Economics, 22 (5). pp. 555-562. ISSN 1024-2694 (print), 1476-8267 (online) (doi:10.1080/10242694.2011.562370)Full text not available from this repository.
The present study aims at investigating the causal relationship between defence expenditures and economic growth in the case of North Cyprus using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bounds testing approach to cointegration and Granger causality tests for the period from 1977 to 2007. The results suggest that the variables in question are in a long-run equilibrium relationship and that there exists a strong, positive unidirectional causality running from defence expenditures to economic growth.
|Item Type:
|Uncontrolled Keywords:
|defence expenditures, military spending, economic growth, Cyprus
|H Social Sciences > HB Economic Theory
H Social Sciences > HG Finance
|School / Department / Research Groups:
|School of Business
School of Business > Department of International Business & Economics
School of Business > Centre for Economic Performance, Governance & Regulation (CEPGR)
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|Last Modified:
|17 Sep 2013 10:14
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Whatever your pleasure, enjoy it this Winter in Virginia. Toast to friends and fun at your choice of 230+ wineries. Hit the slopes at a powdery mountain resort. Slip into spa mode and relish relaxation bliss. Witness whales and other sea life as they migrate off the Virginia coast.
Come, enjoy a Virginia winter with the ones you love most and make a new memory or two. Whether it's a day away or four, your time spent together is right where LOVE lives.
Yes, you can get away from it all, and you can take your family or friends with you!
Virginia's resorts are fantastic four-season destinations, but winter is when they really shine.
Each week, four Virginia bands will battle it out for a chance to play the Lockn' Music Festival in September. Rockn' to Lockn' is a . . .
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"I was so amazed at how quick the turn around time was. The quality, picture and information on the card was beautifully made."
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Annyui na Kanojo Mangaアンニュイな彼女, 女孩別烦恼, Ennui na Kanojo
From Chibi Manga: After being broken-hearted 3 times, in Kozue's mind, she no longer needed men anymore. But she unconsciously started to care about this mature and considerate Asano-sensei. After knowing Asano-sensei cherished and loved his girlfriend so much, she then discovered that she fell deeply in love with Asano-sensei... Even though being rejected by the teacher, But Kozue still couldn't forget her love and the romance for the teacher......!?
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Food safety authority asks states to consider prohibition
CARBONATED drinks and junk food may soon be off the shelves of school and college canteens. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) said this in a counter-affidavit filed in the Delhi High Court on July 18.
The counter-affidavit was in reply to a public interest petition seeking ban on junk food by Uday Foundation, a non-profit working for children's health in Delhi.
FSSAI said the health ministry has written to chief ministers and health ministers of states to "consider issuing instructions for withdrawal of carbonated beverages and junk food from school and college canteens". Medical colleges and agricultural institutes may also be asked to ban them.
There have been no rules on junk food till now because the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954, does not define it. Foods that are high on fat, sodium and sugar. and low on vitamins, minerals, amino acids and fibre are generally called junk food. FSSAI's counter-affidavit cites scientific studies that show a correlation between junk food and chronic degenerative diseases besides hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular diseases and glucose intolerance.
"This is a positive step," says Rahul Verma, co-founder of Uday Foundation. "We will now request the court to form a committee comprising nutritionists, civil society members and schools to draw a comprehensive policy on nutrition and guidelines for schools and educational institutions," he says.
Though this is a welcome thing, it is quite tricky to define what is junk food in the Indian situation. Do we include Samosas, Paav Vada or other favourite Indian snacks also under the junk food label? Anyhow one should definitely ban the use of the packed fries which use high quantities of salt and other preservatives and which actually tastes quite bad, but the children cling to them because of the image created by heavy advertisements. May be we have to revive many of the traditional snacks that we used to have but bulldozed by the wave of the "branded" snacks. We should also admit that not all our traditional snacks are healthy too! Nutritionists should speak out !!


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|calendar>>November 12. 2008 Juche 97
Greetings to Hungarian FM
Pyongyang, November 11 (KCNA) -- DPRK Foreign Minister Pak Ui Chun sent a message of greetings to Goncz Kinga, his Hungarian counterpart, on Nov. 11 on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the DPRK and Hungary.
The message noted that the two countries have made endeavors to develop the bilateral relations on the principle of mutual respect for sovereignty, non-interference in the internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit over the last six decades since the establishment of diplomatic ties.
In the belief that the long-standing friendly and cooperative ties between the two countries would steadily grow strong in various fields, the message wished the Hungarian foreign minister success in his work.
Copyright (C) KOREA NEWS SERVICE(KNS) All Rights Reserved.


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Posts Tagged 'Yoann Gourcuff'
Golden boy Gourcuff limps towards Lyon exit
Lyon are 1-0 up at home to Metz and labouring when a lofted pass from Nabil Fekir finds Yoann Gourcuff in space on the left-hand edge of the penalty area. He deftly brings the ball down and throws a step-over to unbalance Metz defender Jonathan Rivierez, only for a posse of four opponents to force him towards the corner flag. The opening appears to have closed up, but Gourcuff holds off Rivierez and manages to drill a low pass to Corentin Tolisso, who steadies himself before shooting into the bottom-left corner from 25 yards.
At first glance, the goal seems all Tolisso's own work, but it is the pace of Gourcuff's pass that creates the opportunity. Tolisso is too far from goal to shoot first-time, but Gourcuff knows that by fizzing the ball into his feet at speed, Metz's defence will be caught off-guard and the young midfielder, an accomplished striker of the ball, will have time to pick his spot.
Though incidental, the assist bore all Gourcuff's hallmarks, showcasing as it did his sensitivity to the precise technical requirements of each on-pitch situation. Every action he performs seems delicately calibrated, from the deliberate way he paces backwards before taking set-pieces to his habit of bobbing on his toes at the start of his run-up and the exaggerated follow-through when he strikes the ball. Sadly for Gourcuff, and for Lyon, he is also uniquely sensitive to the condition of his own body.
Tactics: Ligue 1's leading lights find diamonds in the rough
Paris Saint-Germain and Monaco may have stockpiled all the money in Ligue 1, but the playing fields of the French top flight have been awash with diamonds this season.
Over the past few months, a 4-4-2 formation with a midfield diamond – known as a milieu en losange in France – has become the must-have tactical system for the league's leading teams, with Lille, Monaco and Lyon successively enjoying improved fortunes after adopting the tactic and Marseille potentially poised to follow suit.
Lille were the pioneers, with coach René Girard installing the system within weeks of his arrival from Montpellier during the summer. Having initially declared an intention to persist with the 4-3-3 formation favoured by his predecessor, Rudi Garcia, he jettisoned the tactic after only 45 minutes of the club's first friendly match, a 3-2 win over Dijon in July.
The system he introduced was designed to get the best out of Marvin Martin, who operates in the number 10 role ahead of a three-man midfield. Once seen as France's answer to Xavi, he endured a disappointing debut season after signing from Sochaux but has spoken positively of the "freedom" afforded him in the new system. It is a set-up with which the 26-year-old is familiar, having come to prominence at Sochaux by supplying the bullets for Brown Ideye and Modibo Maiga as the club from eastern France recorded a surprise fifth-place finish under Francis Gillot in 2011.
Floundering Gourcuff handed unlikely France reprieve
From the outside, the striking thing was the fact that it was headline news at all. Gourcuff named in France squad. Yoann Gourcuff, heir apparent to Zinedine Zidane, darling of Bordeaux's 2009 title-winning side, was this week selected in Laurent Blanc's preliminary squad for Euro 2012. And it was the biggest story in town.
Anticipation of the squad announcement had centred on whether or not Gourcuff would get the call, at the end of a season in which injuries and poor form have restricted him to just 13 league appearances for Lyon, culminating in a sending-off for violent conduct against Ajaccio on Sunday. "It's not anecdotal," said Blanc of the red card, which Gourcuff received for an off-the-ball altercation with Ajaccio's Jean-Baptiste Pierazzi. "It proves that the boy isn't in top form, both physically and mentally."
Gourcuff's inclusion in the 26-man squad therefore came as something of a surprise, but how has a player for whom such a bright future was predicted fallen so far?
Blanc's France still searching for an identity
For a team protecting an unbeaten record that now stretches to 543 days, France will approach Wednesday night's friendly against Germany in Bremen with a surprising degree of uncertainty.
Since going down 1-0 at home to Belarus in Laurent Blanc's first competitive game in charge in September 2010, France have qualified for Euro 2012 – without recourse to the play-offs – and enjoyed friendly wins over England, Brazil and the United States (as well as some forgettable draws against Croatia, Chile and Belgium).
Viewed from the outside, and against a backdrop of the self-inflicted humiliation of the 2010 World Cup, Les Bleus are turning things around. Bubbling beneath the statistics, however, are a multitude of concerns about the team's style of play and a lack of both experience and leadership within the squad, while an ongoing contract dispute between Blanc and French Football Federation president Noël Le Graët suggests Blanc's employers remain to be convinced by the direction the team is taking.
Blanc pledged to introduced panache and risk-taking to France's football following his appointment in the aftermath of the infamous Knysna training ground mutiny, but although France have become solid and difficult to beat, their play has not captured the imagination since the first game of their current 17-match unbeaten run – a 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in Sarajevo that came four days after the setback against Belarus.
Then, a team anchored by a midfield pairing of Yann M'Vila and Alou Diarra, driven forward by the lolloping raids of Abou Diaby and centred around the new-found efficacy of Karim Benzema had hinted at a glorious future for Blanc's France. Now, although Benzema has gone from strength to strength at Real Madrid, the team has lost its way.
Top ten Ligue 1 transfer targets
Ligue 1 has proved a fertile hunting ground for Premier League sides in recent years – not least for Newcastle United – and as the January transfer window opens, several names from the French top flight find themselves linked with clubs from the English elite. Football Further runs the rule over the players making the headlines and identifies which of them are likely to be on the move.
1. Eden Hazard (Lille)
Unless unforeseen misfortune befalls him, Hazard will leave Lille this year and, when he does so, he will join one of Europe's most famous clubs, but he is unlikely to depart this month. Rudi Garcia's side may have gone into the winter break four points behind leaders Paris Saint-Germain, but their performance in the 0-0 draw at Parc des Princes on December 18 proved that they are PSG's equal and they remain the most cohesive outfit in the division. With their title defence on track and no European distractions to contend with in the second half of the campaign, Lille will not yield Hazard in January unless they receive an astronomical bid. The player himself is in no hurry.
2. Yoann Gourcuff (Lyon)
Mention of Gourcuff's name in the United Kingdom tends to conjure up memories of the match-winning performances and magisterial goals that characterised his performances in Bordeaux's 2008-09 title-winning campaign, but Ligue 1 observers will attest that that player has not been seen for the best part of two years. An exhausted bystander as Bordeaux's title defence crumbled in the second half of the 2009-10 season, Gourcuff endured a wretched World Cup and has failed to settle since joining Lyon in a €22 million deal in August 2010. Lyon are looking to recoup as much of his original transfer fee as possible but, despite rumours of a €12 million offer from Zenit Saint-Petersburg, a loan switch looks more probable. Arsène Wenger is a known admirer but, as he admitted recently, even with Jack Wilshere and Abou Diaby injured, Arsenal are well stocked in the centre of the pitch.
Report: Cole on target as Lille fightback floors Lyon
"PARIS — Joe Cole capped a Lille fightback with the third goal in a 3-1 defeat of Lyon on Sunday that allowed the defending champions to steal a march on their rivals in the nascent Ligue 1 title race."
To read my AFP round-up of the weekend's Ligue 1 action, click here.
La semaine en France: Week 32
A bite-size round-up of the week's events in French football, for anyone who wants to keep up with what's happening in Ligue 1 but hasn't got the time (or the French) to do so.
Ligue 1
With an inevitably that feels like it has been building for about two months, Marseille returned to the Ligue 1 summit after a 4-2 win at Mediterranean neighbours Nice on Wednesday night.
Lille's 1-1 draw at Lorient last Sunday – a magnificent game of football – had given the champions an opportunity to sneak to the top of the pile that they duly took, thanks to a hat-trick from André Ayew and a first league goal of the season for his younger sibling, Jordan. Four days on from their victory over Montpellier in the Coupe de la Ligue final, Marseille are exactly where they were at this stage last season – top of the table with a trophy in the bag and the finishing line in sight. Lille's hopes of overhauling the leaders may well depend on Lyon's ability to do them a favour when they host OM on May 8.
Lyon galvanised their grip on third place with a 3-2 defeat of Montpellier. Claude Puel reacted to Souleymane Camara's 84th-minute equaliser for Montpellier by sending on Yoann Gourcuff in place of Bafétimbi Gomis, much to the disgust of Lisandro López, but three minutes later the Argentine headed down a high ball for Gourcuff to slam home his most important goal to date in Lyon's colours.
OL are now three points above Paris Saint-Germain in the battle for the last Champions League place after a truly wretched performance from reserve goalkeeper Apoula Edel saw PSG held to a 2-2 draw at Brest. Rennes are without a win in six matches after going down 1-0 at Monaco, who leapt up to 15th place. Marseille's Coupe de la Ligue win means the team that finishes sixth will now qualify for next season's Europa League and Bordeaux moved into pole position with an impressive 2-0 victory over Saint-Etienne that suggests their season might not be over just yet.
Ligue 1 results
Sunday: Auxerre 1-1 Lens, Bordeaux 2-0 Saint-Etienne, Brest 2-2 PSG, Caen 1-1 Toulouse, Monaco 1-0 Rennes, Nancy 0-0 Arles-Avignon, Valenciennes 1-1 Sochaux, Lorient 1-1 Lille; Wednesday: Lyon 3-2 Montpellier, Marseille 4-2 Nice
La semaine en France: Week 28
A bite-size round-up of the week's events in French football, for anyone who wants to keep up with what's happening in Ligue 1 but hasn't got the time (or the French) to do so.
Ligue 1
And then there were four. After defeat at Auxerre and a draw at home to Montpellier, Paris Saint-Germain's 2-1 loss at Marseille in last Sunday's 'clasico' effectively ended their hopes of pipping Lille to this season's title.
A lively encounter at Stade Vélodrome saw OM prevail through a header from the irrepressible André Ayew, after Gabriel Heinze's 16th-minute free-kick had been cancelled out by Clément Chantôme. It left PSG 10 points behind Lille and five points below the Champions League places. PSG's fatigue was plain to see during a second half in which they never quite managed to put Marseille under pressure and Antoine Kombouaré was quick to point out that it had been their 11th game in five weeks. Worryingly for the Coupe de France semi-finalists, the last five of those have all ended in defeat.
With 10 games to go, Lille are four points clear of second-placed Marseille after coming from behind to win 2-1 at Brest. Their new-found ability to grind out results, as opposed to blasting teams off the pitch like they did in December and January, only strengthens the conviction that the leaders are not about to collapse with the finishing line in sight.
An 87th-minute header from Kévin Théophile-Catherine earned Rennes a 1-1 draw at Lyon that left the visitors third and the hosts fourth. Lyon are now six points off the pace and Théophile-Catherine's goal could have far-reaching ramifications for the 2002-2008 champions, with Monday's L'Équipe openly speculating that this season will be Claude Puel's last.
Lens stunned Montpellier 4-1 at Stade de la Mosson but remain second-bottom, four points from safety. Monaco, one place higher, are also in serious peril of sliding into Ligue 2 after a 1-0 defeat at home to Nancy left them three points beneath 17th-placed Auxerre.
Ligue 1 results
Saturday: Auxerre 2-0 Sochaux, Brest 1-2 Lille, Lorient 0-0 Saint-Etienne, Montpellier 1-4 Lens, Toulouse 1-1 Nice, Valenciennes 2-2 Bordeaux, Lyon 1-1 Rennes; Sunday: Caen 2-0 Arles-Avignon, Monaco 0-1 Nancy, Marseille 2-1 PSG
Tactics: French sides flock to worship at altar of 4-2-3-1
A peculiar tactical phenomenon has been witnessed in France in recent months. In a microcosm of global trends that have shaped the game over the course of the last decade or so, Ligue 1's top sides have all – without exception – begun to ditch their preferred formations in favour of a 4-2-3-1.
Marseille, whose title and Coupe de la Ligue successes last season were founded on a pragmatic 4-3-3 shape, were the first team to make the switch. For the crucial Champions League group game at Spartak Moscow in November, Mathieu Valbuena was moved infield from the right flank and allowed to adopt the central playmaking role that he covets. Didier Deschamps wanted to capitalise on the fact that Valbuena "is very accurate with his shooting" and the France international proved as much in the 18th minute when he put OM ahead with a precise, curling effort into the top-right corner. Marseille went on to win 3-0, in what was their most coherent performance of the season to date, and their 4-2-3-1 continues to emerge for high-pressure encounters, such as Sunday's 2-1 defeat of Paris Saint-Germain.
Another team synonymous with the 4-3-3 in recent years has been Lyon. Towards the end of the first half in their 4-1 win at Saint-Etienne last month, however, Yoann Gourcuff was allowed to advance a little further forwards and occupy the role of the classic number 10 that was his at Bordeaux. With Jérémy Toulalan and Kim Källström retreating into deep, central positions, it meant Lyon were playing a 4-2-3-1 and Claude Puel reflected that it gave the team "a certain balance".
The switch brought the best out of Lisandro López, moved to the left flank in support of central striker Bafétimbi Gomis, in much the same way that André-Pierre Gignac's best form for Marseille has coincided with the times when he has played from the left in support of Brandão. Occasionally isolated when used as lone strikers, both López and Gignac appear to relish seeing more of the ball and both men are particularly adept at cutting inside and shooting at goal with their stronger right feet.
French football quotes of the year 2010
The World Cup
"As I'm an optimistic person, I'm going to say that I have a 100 per cent chance [of going to the World Cup]."
– Pride comes before a fall for Patrick Vieira
"I read the letter. I don't think the players wrote it. It was typed out on a computer and there were no spelling mistakes."
– French Football Federation general secretary Henri Monteil lets the world know exactly what he thinks about the intellect of the average footballer after reading the statement released by the France squad explaining their training boycott
"Go on Yoann, you'll be alone on the pitch. Everyone will see you and you'll be a media star."
– What Franck Ribéry allegedly (emphasis on the allegedly) told Yoann Gourcuff on the France team bus after he threatened to break the training strike
"He sullied my name without trying to find out what happened. Lilian thinks he's the new coach, the president of the federation and the president of the [French] Republic… Walking around with books on slavery in glasses and a hat does not turn you into Malcolm X."
– Patrice Evra on Lilian Thuram, after the France 1998 stalwart called for him to be banned from the national side for life
"They're real clowns, these people. I'm dying with laughter!"
– Nicolas Anelka pours scorn on the unprecedented 18-match international ban handed to him by the FFF
"You should see him in the changing room: he sings French rap. He's even learnt the song the Bordeaux fans chant to wind me up: 'Oh, Diawara, go fuck yourself/You have got no loyalty!'"
– Souleymane Diawara on Lucho González's successful integration in the Marseille changing room
"The baguette. It's amazing how good it is, the baguette."
– Lyon's Argentine attacking midfielder César Delgado, when asked what he would remember most fondly from his time in France
"Steve makes me laugh with his fake Marseille accent. A black guy from Normandy with a Marseille accent – it sounds wrong to be honest!"
– Guillaume Hoarau upbraids former Le Havre team-mate Steve Mandanda for his efforts to blend in at Marseille
"We don't talk. We played one year at Arsenal without talking. There were other people who didn't talk to him either. The collective cause was more important, though, and we got on with things."
– Samir Nasri lifts the lid on his (non-)relationship with former Arsenal team-mate William Gallas
Tactics: What should England expect from France?
The press pack accompanying the France squad to England may have been slightly miffed at the lack of attention given to Les Bleus in Fabio Capello's pre-match press conference, but Laurent Blanc's side will have plenty of opportunities to make themselves headline news when tonight's match at Wembley kicks off.
France lost 2-1 to Norway in Blanc's first game in charge and were then stunned 1-0 by Belarus in their opening Euro 2012 qualifier at the Stade de France, but have since recorded consecutive 2-0 victories against Bosnia-Herzegovina, Romania and Luxembourg. Upon taking the reins following the World Cup debacle, Blanc spoke of his desire to create a France team "that opposes its style upon its opponents", and although we are still in the early days of his tenure, his vision for the national team is beginning to emerge.
In France's last game, a rather laboured 2-0 defeat of Luxembourg in Metz, Blanc set France out in a 4-4-2 formation with a diamond midfield supporting Karim Benzema and Guillaume Hoarau in attack. He occasionally used a similar system during his time at Bordeaux, but against strong opposition his preference is for a midfield configuration that makes sure France cannot be outnumbered in the centre of the pitch.
"Playing with two strikers does not allow us to have numerical superiority in midfield," Blanc explained in September. "You can use it against weaker teams. Against strong teams it's vital to win the midfield battle. You have more options with two strikers but you can only play with one holding midfielder. That can weaken your team."
La semaine en France: Week 9
A bite-size round-up of the week's events in French football, for anyone who wants to keep up with what's happening in Ligue 1 but hasn't got the time (or the French) to do so.
Ligue 1
The Ligue 1 table has a slightly more familiar look to it ahead of the 10th round of matches, after victories for all the big teams last weekend.
Paris Saint-Germain climbed to third with an impressive 2-0 win at Toulouse on Saturday. Mevlüt Erding claimed only his second goal of the season to seal the win, finishing a neat move involving a typically ornate flick from Nenê and an astute through-ball by Ludovic Giuly. Paris are above Marseille on goal difference after the champions edged Nancy 1-0, with Loïc Rémy claiming his first OM goal – and taking a swipe at Damien Gregorini's face in the process – to cover up an unconvincing display from Didier Deschamps's side.
Bordeaux are now seventh thanks to a 1-0 win at Auxerre. Anthony Modeste claimed the game's only goal, but the major talking point of the weekend was the dismissal of new France captain Alou Diarra for reacting to a yellow card from referee Wilfried Bien by shoving him in the chest. He has been provisionally suspended until November 10, when the Professional Football League (LFP) will announce their decision on his punishment.
The game of the round was unquestionably Lyon's 3-1 win at home to Lille on Sunday night. Lisandro López claimed a brace for the hosts, with Yoann Gourcuff netting his first goal in Lyon's colours and Moussa Sow replying with a spectacular overhead kick. OL are up to 14th, four points short of third place, and Claude Puel's crunch meeting with Jean-Michel Aulas on October 28 suddenly looks a much less daunting prospect.
Rennes held onto top spot despite drawing 0-0 at second-bottom Lens, while second-placed Saint-Etienne fell to a 2-1 defeat at Nice after losing Gonzalo Bergessio to a harsh red card in the 22nd minute. Arles-Avignon claimed their first point of the season in a 0-0 draw at Brest, but they're still bottom (and still going down).
Report: Rémy, Gourcuff see France past Romania
"PARIS — Substitutes Loic Remy and Yoann Gourcuff struck late goals to give France a 2-0 win at home to Romania on Saturday that sent them top of their Euro 2012 qualifying group."
Read my AFP match report here.
La semaine en France: Week 8
A bite-size round-up of the week's events in French football, for anyone who wants to keep up with what's happening in Ligue 1 but hasn't got the time (or the French) to do so.
Ligue 1
Visitors to Stade Geoffroy-Guichard on Saturday would have been forgiven for wondering if they'd somehow stumbled back into the 1970s, as Saint-Etienne's famous ground played host to a sold-out clash between champions Marseille and the table-topping home side. OM took the lead in fortuitous circumstances after the ball struck referee Stéphane Bré and landed kindly for Lucho González, who dinked the ball into the penalty area for André-Pierre Gignac to volley in his first goal for the club. Dmitri Payet and Blaise Matuidi combined to set up Laurent Batlles for a 59th-minute leveller, but results on Sunday saw ASSE concede top spot.
Rennes led Ligue 1 going into the international break, topping the standings for the first time since 1970 after a 3-1 win at home to Toulouse. A sweet, rising shot from full-back Romain Danzé set the hosts on their way shortly before the interval before Kader Mangane and Sylvain Marveaux made the points safe, but coach Frédéric Antonetti (pictured) chastised his team for their sloppiness and said they would need three seasons of stability to mount a serious title challenge.
Lille moved into third place with a 3-1 win at home to Montpellier. Paris Saint-Germain could have finished the weekend on the podium but were frustrated by David Ospina (see below) in a 0-0 draw at home to Nice. Lyon clambered out of the relegation zone by winning 3-2 at Nancy, but only secured victory when an error from Gennaro Bracigliano allowed Jimmy Briand to volley in his second goal of the game in the 75th minute.
The week's biggest story, however, occurred off the pitch. France's Professional Football League (LFP) announced on Thursday night that away fans would be banned from both the matches between Marseille and PSG this season over security fears, drawing condemnation from fan groups and club officials.
Tactics: Can France play without a playmaker?
The team that Laurent Blanc aligns against Romania on Saturday may herald a significant change of direction in the tactical evolution of the French national side. Teams representing the country have long been built around a single, richly talented creative player, from Raymond Kopa in the 1950s through Michel Platini in the 1980s to Zinedine Zidane at the turn of the last century. But that could be about to change.
France's 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Hercegovina in Sarajevo last month was probably their most impressive performance in a competitive match for four years and they achieved it without a playmaker in sight. Instead, Alou Diarra anchored a muscular midfield with Yann M'Vila alongside him and Abou Diaby operating slightly further forward. Florent Malouda and Mathieu Valbuena were deployed on the flanks, in support of lone striker Karim Benzema.
Diaby has long been typecast as a defensive midfielder, presumably because of his height, his build and his physical resemblance to Patrick Vieira, but against Bosnia he was given the freedom to express his attacking gifts, embarking on lolloping runs into opposition territory and making a number of incisive passes. A playmaker, however, he is not.
Yoann Gourcuff, the heir apparent to Zidane, and Samir Nasri missed the game in Sarajevo, through suspension and injury respectively. Both are now back in the fold, but Blanc has promised that the players who starred against Bosnia will be given an opportunity to stake a claim to a first-team place.
"Nothing forces us to play with a number 10," said Blanc this week. "In Bosnia, because we couldn't do anything else, there wasn't one. The train had passed, the team was put in place and it did a pleasing job."
Blanc has admitted, however, that "players who are capable of making the team play better [i.e. playmakers] are always useful" and he has also expressed a conviction that Gourcuff and Nasri can be fitted into the same starting XI, most probably with Nasri playing wide on the right and Gourcuff in the centre.
The prototype 4-3-3 that breathed new life into the French national team's play in Sarajevo was a world away from the stodgy, unimaginative football associated with the 4-2-3-1 of the Raymond Domenech era, but Blanc's stated mission to create a side that "imposes its style upon its opponents" would perhaps be best served by a team containing at least one playmaker. In any case, Diaby's ankle injury suggests at least one of Gourcuff and Nasri will make the starting XI against Romania.
Nevertheless, the performances of Diaby, M'Vila and co against Bosnia proved that France can function perfectly well without a number 10. The team-sheet at the Stade de France on Saturday could give the clearest indication yet that France's love affair with the playmaker is about to be put on indefinite hold.


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"Dr. Nicholas Romanov, my father and the
founder of the Pose Method®, has been coaching athletes of all
levels since 1974. Whether he is working with
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their technique.
The Pose Method® teaches athletes a key Pose or several key
Poses that are repeated throughout the movement. In essence, it's a
way to develop the proper form or technique to optimize movement
and avoid injury. Elastic bands are at the core of many exercises
in his books, and over the past 15 years, StrechCordz® have been
Dr. Romanov's resistance training tool of
I have been working alongside my father for many years now,
and I know he prefers to use StrechCordz for a few different
reasons. He likes the resistance they provide and their quality.
Both of these factors need to be considered as Dr. Romanov often
trains Olympic athletes. The tubing needs to provide adequate
resistance to be effective for that level of client, and it also
needs to offer consistent resistance over a period of extended
An important indication of quality is the durability of the
product. I can't remember one ever breaking on us. We've found that
other products made from cheaper materials tend to fall apart. It
becomes a very dangerous matter when an athlete is doing resistance
exercises and a tube snaps, so durability is a key
Dr. Romanov most commonly uses the StrechCordz with Leg Straps
because of the product's versatility. When teaching athletes the
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and has them stand in the Running Pose. This requires them to stand
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body, both very common technique errors in running.
He also uses the product during technique coaching for
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resistance while they're practicing their strokes. This subtle
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motor patterns as well as building their sport-specific
StrechCordz with Leg Straps provide athletes with just the
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Editor's Note: Severin Romanov is the Chief Executive Officer of
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If you're running the Boston Marathon on April 16,
congratulations! It's quite an achievement to be participating in
the oldest city marathon in the world. In fact, this historic race
began in 1897 with just 18 runners. Now the elite international
road race annually attracts more than 20,000 registered
participants (26,895 people in 2011), including top athletes from
around the world. Not to mention more than 500,000 spectators
lining the streets between Hopkinton and the finish line in
downtown Boston.
If you aren't participating this year, keep in mind that the 117th
Boston Marathon is scheduled for Monday, April 15, 2013. According
to the Boston
Athletic Association website, next year's applications
will be accepted beginning September 2012. And, remember, the
Boston event is one of the very few marathons that require you to
meet a qualifying time before you even can enter. "The Boston
Marathon is a huge, elite event," says Maureen
Petrasko, president of NZ Manufacturing. "It's for the
serious runner - very serious runner." So, if you're determined to
qualify, step up your game plan now!
Training for a marathon is a major undertaking that requires time
and motivation, as well as a certain level of fitness. You should
be able to run for at least 30 minutes without stopping before you
even consider such an enormous feat. During your actual training,
your mileage should gradually increase each week, with your longest
run being 18-20 miles. Here are our other "super-six tips" to
Only 1% of people around the world can say they've actually
finished a marathon. And you're about to be one of them! So good
luck with your training and remember to have fun!
For those of you who started off the New Year with high
expectations of setting some fitness goals, getting into fitness
routine and then have fallen short of those goals, I just want to
say it is never too late!
One of the easiest ways to begin is by just moving and putting one
step in front of the other. Sounds a bit corny doesn't it? Walking
and/or jogging are one of the most accessible forms of exercise as
you can accomplish a 20 minute workout virtually anywhere.
Regular aerobic activity helps improve cardiovascular health, helps
in aiding weight loss, reduces stress, and boosts your energy
level. All of this is positive. This will give you your own
personal satisfaction. You are doing this for you! Remember
that before beginning an aerobic training program, check with your
So, are you ready to start? You may just want to run or
you may want the challenge and excitement of signing up for a race
- maybe a 5k - which is 3.1 miles. The shared fear with all
runners, beginners to seasoned are concerns about being
last. You will soon realize all runners come in different
shapes, ages, and sizes. With this in mind, runners also have
different speeds. If you never ran before start walking and add
running in between. Gradually you will be running more than
walking. You can get running advice and support at numerous
outlets: local fitness facilities, running groups, running
specialty stores, and online.
I started running when I was 38. I was asked by a friend to
run a local 4 miler. So, training began - 15 years later and
all kinds of races I'm still running and enjoying it. If you have
read my posts in the past, you will know that I am advocate of
cross training. Make sure you mix-up your fitness routine so that
you do not get bored doing the same thing as well as minimizing
joint and muscle injury. Cross training alternatives may include:
swimming, yoga, weight training and/or biking to name a few.
So, it's time to refocus on your New Year's resolution and set a
goal - but be realistic. Sign up for a local 5K. Fill
out that race form and now you have motivation. Train
properly and always have fun! Get to the starting line with a
smile on your face! The race starts - you do what you trained for -
you run. When you cross that finish line, and people are
cheering you on - you will have the biggest smile - because you did
In good health,
Julie O'Connell
I began my 100 mile journey in by boarding a bus at 3:00am to
transport the runners up to the start line in Cleveland. I
was ready for this after 7 straight months of training. The
course was absolutely beautiful. The course took you through
some of Ohio's most scenic parks including the Cuyahoga
Valley National Park, Summit
County Metro Parks, Towpath Trail, Buckeye Trail, Hike and
Bike Trail and The
Bridal Valley Trail. The course consisted of 75% trail and 25%
street routes.
To complete this grueling course was
an amazing experience. Looking back now is as emotional as the day
I crossed the finish line. The experience was by far my greatest
challenge to date and definitely tested my limits both physically
and emotionally. My support crew was amazing! They were also tested
by having to be awake for 30 plus hours and available at each
support stop, being prepared to supply the necessary foods, drinks
and clothes. I want to say all of this was possible because
of all their support.
I walked/crawled away with blisters on
both feet but other than that, I feel great!
In between training, time was taken off due to bitter cold and of
course taking time to relax with family and friends.
You need to build miles safely. Three weeks hard and one week
recovery. Races in between are for time on your feet . You should
feeling stronger and recover quicker during that 4th week. As
pay attention and listen to your body.
I truly feel anyone can complete any challenge, you need to
safely and rest when your body tells you. Eat properly and
exercise both mind and body and, as always, have fun!
In good health,
Julie O'Connell
I wrote about a month ago the 'running' account of my journey
toward the 100 mile race that will take place on July 30. The
event is The Burning River
100 Mile Run that begins in Cleveland and takes you along a
route ending in Cuyahoga Falls Ohio, spanning a 30 hour period of
continuous running. At this point, I figure there is no
turning back. I have prepared for this event for the past 25
years through fitness teaching, running races, duathalons, tri's
and bike adventures. I am not a crazed fitness fanatic that
watches every carb and gram of protein I eat. I often meet up
with friends for a leisure bike ride that includes a break half-way
for lunch and a beer. What made me want to run 100
miles continuously? I am still asking myself that
This journey will take me over a wide array of terrain. Miles
will be covered on rugged trails, into creeks, on driven motorways,
bike and walking paths and steep steps in the metro parks (90 steps
at around mile 90). If that isn't cruel, I don't' know what
is. I will change running shoes approximately four times
during this event along with clothes changes to keep me dry.
Food breaks will consist of tea, broth soup, peanut butter
sandwiches, and plenty of sports drinks. A support crew will follow
me along the way with a trunk filled with all the necessary gels,
sprays, clothes, shoes, socks and miscellaneous first aid supplies
that I will need. This support group will stay with me during
my journey and will forgo a restful night sleep as I run through
parks and trails during the night time hours with headlamp in
tow. If it were not for the support of my fellow workers,
friends and family, I could not possibly have gotten to this point
in my life.
For those of you who have been following my journey, thank you for
your support and encouraging words. I will keep these well
wishes neatly tucked into my head during the approximately 30 hour
run on July 30.
Please feel free to contact me with any fitness questions or ideas
you may have. I would love to hear from you.
In good health,
Julie O'Connell
Why would anyone want to run 100 miles at once?
I am often asked this question, especially now that I am
less than 100 days away from the date of The Burning
River 100 mile event.
I began this journey over 25 years ago when I became a fitness
instructor. From then on, I have tried to push myself to improve my
performance and overall health. I believe in an overall approach to
fitness that includes aerobic activity (running, biking, swimming
and cardio classes), including core and overall strength training
(Pilates, yoga and resistance training). Backed by research too
numerous to site, the combination of aerobic and strength training,
along with proper diet and rest provide the building blocks for
achievement of fitness goals.
Fitness is more than being able to run your first 5k, biking
adventure, walk-a-thon, tri-event, or even a 100 mile run. Fitness
is a state of well being. Fitness is the forming of friendships.
Fitness is a time management skill. Fitness is a stress reliever.
Fitness is a time for planning and reflecting. Fitness is a breath
of fresh air. Fitness is a love/hate relationship. Fitness is an
event. Fitness is a lifestyle. Fitness is YOU.
Not everyone can run 100 miles at once; however, I find that by
setting goals, no matter how big or small they are, they keep me
focused on the event ahead and just maybe with the training behind
me and some miles to run yet ahead in the next 100 days, I will
cross the finish line of The Burning River 100 mile event.
Follow me on my journey. Why not set a fitness goal today? Perhaps
you have already accomplished a fitness achievement that you would
like to share. Please feel free to contact me with any fitness
questions or ideas you may have. I would love to hear from you.
Remember, fitness is YOU.
In good health,
Julie O'Connell
The rate of force development, commonly called power, is crucial
to many sport performances. Running athletes develop power by
generating the maximum amount of force over the shortest period of
time. The product of stride length (force applied) and stride
frequency (motion) will determine running speed. To optimize
performance in running it takes mobility and strength. One of the
best ways to increase mobility and strength to specifically carry
over to running is to use elastic resistance training.
The training principle of specificity requires that you use your
muscles in the same contraction mode and range of motion in
training that you are interested in improving for your skill. Using
elastic resistance like the TurfCordz series can help a runner
develop functional strength that will carry over to increasing
running performance. The properties of elasticity allow for
resistance patterns that are independent of gravity but dependent
upon rate and length of stretch of the cord. In addition, Cords
have the advantage of applying resistance in multiple planes of
unrestrained movement patterns. When athletes engage in varied
speed drills the resistance also accommodates so muscles can work
in the same movement pattern and joint angles specific to running.
This accommodative property occurs with both slow speed and high
speed training. The cord can be used for explosive start drills, or
even with performing isometric holds in positions when the band is
stretched; for example lunge positions) . Ultimately the resistance
can be tailored specifically to the area of strength weakness the
runner may need to improve.
Running uses a considerable amount of abdominal strength. To
strengthen the abdominals and rotator muscles of the trunk cord
resistance can be used to offset excessive twisting that can occur
due to muscle weakness and prevent the hips and shoulders from
rotating too much during the run. It is very difficult, if not
impossible; to duplicate the exact movements of the legs, hips, and
shoulders used in running with isotonic loads using dumbbells,
barbells, or machines.
Furthermore, the low inertia of the cord mass makes high speed
training a real plus with this type of equipment. Muscles store
energy when undergoing lengthening just like elastic cords. This
type of training is very portable and is not limited to a
gym/fitness setting which makes it ideal for runners who want to
take the cords to the track. Runners can also partner with other
runners and match resistances by alternating each other as the
anchor point on the other end of the cord.
Even though running is considered an aerobic activity runner need
strength to build what experts call a "speed reserve." This reserve
will help give you a burst of speed when you need it most --
something you'll find invaluable when you hit the inevitable "wall"
during a race or marathon.
This type of training also helps reduce the chance of injury. When
you run, your lower body and feet absorb a force up to five times
your body weight every time your heel hits the ground. The
cumulative impact of this constant stress can be devastating if
your body is not conditioned properly. Impact-related injuries are
usually associated with muscle weakness or imbalance. Because
resistance training results in stronger bones and muscle as well as
increased flexibility and stronger connective tissue, it can help
you avoid fatigue related injuries.
Working on specific strengthening exercises along with your
current running program should help you achieve faster race times.
Also you may want to include a variety of lower-back, and upper
body exercises that will improve your strength.


text:
OCD in 7 regions on alert as 'Soulik' nears PHL; Coast Guard warns fishermen
As Typhoon Soulik continued to approach the Philippines Wednesday morning, officials of the Office of Civil Defense in seven regions, including Metro Manila, were instructed to adopt the needed precautions.
Tropical Storm Soulik forecast track as of 8Jul2013. The Weather Central forecast track for Soulik as of 8am Monday shows that the tropical storm may enter the northeastern corner of the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Wednesday. GMA News
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council had the OCD prepare for the possibility of heavy rain from Soulik, which would be codenamed "Huaning" once it enters the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR).
OCD regional units placed under alert included Metro Manila, Cordillera, Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon and Mimaropa, radio dzBB reported.
PAGASA earlier said Soulik had intensified into a typhoon and continues to gain strength while approaching Northern Luzon, and may enhance the southwest monsoon.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard placed its units in Northern Luzon on alert, radio dzBB's Carlo Mateo reported.
Coast Guard spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Armand Balilo said the units in Northern Luzon are to go around coastal areas and dissuade fishermen from going out to sea at this time.
PAGASA said Soulik is expected to enter the Philippine area of responsibility as early as 10 a.m. Wednesday. — LBG, GMA News
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GITAM Institute of Technology (GIT) was established in the year 1980. Over the years the Institute made it's significance in Engineering education at all India level as certified by various statutory bodies. Some of the recognitions to quote are; Top most Engineering College in Andhra Pradesh with Creditable Performance Score in Academic Audit conducted by the State Council of Higher Education (APSCHE) in 2003, listed as top rated institute by many media agencies in their surveys during 2007 and 2009; included as one of the top 30 Engineering Colleges by IBM in their 'The Great Mind Challenge' Contest. The programs offered by GIT have been accredited by National Board of Accreditation (NBA) thrice. University Grants Commission (UGC) conferred Autonomous status to GIT as early as in 2003, the first Institute in Andhra Pradesh. In 2007, it has become a constituent Institute of GITAM Deemed-to-be University. Selected by the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), Govt. of India for "Technical Education Quality Improvement Program (TEQIP)" among a very few other Institutes of the Country in 2011.
At present, GIT offers 9 undergraduate and 15 Postgraduate Programmes in various Engineering disciplines and 2 Dual Degree (B.Tech + M.Tech) programmes in Electronics & Communication Engineering and Mechanical Engineering and 2 Evening M.Tech Programmes in Computer Science & Technology and VLSI Design. It also offers Ph.D., Programmes in all engineering disciplines. The admission into various Programmes is through a common online Entrance Test viz., GITAM Admission Test (GAT) conducted in various centers. The Institute provides scholarships and fellowships to the meritorious UG and PG students out of its own resources and endowments created by liberal donations from philanthropists. In addition, the Institute allows full/partial fee waiver to the top 100 students of GITAM Admission Test (GAT).
With over 475 highly qualified, dedicated and committed faculty who have made significant contributions both at the National and International levels, the Institute provides high quality educational experience to the students in a diverse learning environment. The learner-centered teaching methodology with need based curriculum designed by academic experts and industry personnel, prepare GIT students to successfully meet academic and corporate challenges. The State of the Art Laboratories, e-class rooms, open courseware etc. are special features of the Institute which endow its students with advanced technical knowledge to meet the challenges of global standards. The updated course structure also integrates value education, environmental awareness and communication skills into its curriculum to mould the students as responsible citizens.
Intensive institute-industry interface enables the students to have hands-on experience which strengthens their employment potential. This institute is often the first choice of many corporate majors in search of quality human resources and the students graduated from GIT are among the preferred employees by many top rated companies both in Software and Core sectors. The alumni occupy prominent positions in prestigious institutions and organizations all over the world and some of them are highly successful entrepreneurs. The Training and Placement cell provides the students with the necessary corporate skill set right from day one of their admission in to GIT and groom them on a regular basis throughout their stay. The 100% placement record of the institution to all the eligible candidates every year with a pay package ranging from Rs. 3.5 lakhs to Rs. 16 lakhs per annum is an ample testimony for the quality of technical education imparted at GIT.
GITAM University Science Activity Centre (GUSAC) & Cultural Club - Kalakrithi provide students excellent opportunities to unleash their creativity and innovation in technical and cultural arena. The professional societies in every Engineering Department supplement the overall personality development through their technical and non technical events regularly. Service clubs like NSS, Rotract Club, Vivann, Engineers Without Borders etc. are inculcating social responsibility among students. The Institute is most versatile in providing it's students with very exceptional Sports/Games facilities viz., 7 acres of playgrounds for all major games like Cricket, Football, Handball, Volleyball, Kho-Kho, Ball Badminton, Kabaddi and Athletics, a Modern gymnasium and an indoor stadium, Wooden flooring for Basketball, Volleyball and Badminton, Four international standard Tennis Courts – two Synthetic and two clay, flood-lit have been laid out. Students are encouraged to participate in inter-college, inter-university competitions conducted throughout the year on the campus.
The state of the art laboratories on campus provide excellent opportunities for ground breaking research and consultancy. The faculty is active in research and has published a good number of research papers in Journals of high impact factor and undertook several research projects funded by UGC, DST, DBT, FST, HPCL, DRDO, etc. The Institute has successfully completed a good number of consultancy assignments in government, public and private sector organizations, such as Visakhapatnam Port Trust, Steel Plant, HPCL, etc.
The Institute has a strong alumni base that who are occupying leadership positions in government, administration, industry and research organizations across the globe. The Institute has been giving top priority to establish and strengthen a network of alumni, associating them in the academic activities particularly in curriculum design and campus placements.
With best wishes.
Principal, GIT


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Oak Park Terrace Madisons Premier Manufactured Home Community
Welcome to Oak Park Terrace, your new home
Oak Park Terrace is a well-maintained and affordable Manufactured Housing Community. Our spacious home sites are situated within a peaceful wooded setting amidst mature oak trees on well lit, paved streets. At Oak Park Terrace you'll enjoy all the amenities you expect and the convenience you require making it the ideal residential community.


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George Zimmerman trial: Watch the not-guilty verdict in the murder case
The conclusion of George Zimmerman's trial for the shooting of Trayvon Martin in 2012 is coming to an end. Throughout Saturday (July 13), the jury deliberated on whether or not to find the defendant guilty of second-degree murder.
You can watch the verdict on a live-stream here.
After almost a full day of deliberations, the all-female jury determined that George Zimmerman was not guilty of second-degree murder in the case.
Photo/Video credit: Getty Images, FCN


text: Len and Terri Sanoski toured Trinidad and Havana By Tina Snell, Staff Writer Len and Terri Sanoski took a trip of a lifetime this summer. They toured the island of Cuba for nine days, seeing the sights and learning the culture. Needing special licensing from the Cuban Treasury, Terri said Collett...Read More


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Modified Mustangs & FordsFeatured Vehicles
2007 Roush Blackjack Mustang - Roush Rockets
These Two Roush Mustangs Are Ready To Rumble
The Details
Larry and Phyliss Hamm's '08 Roush P-51A Mustang
Number 23 of 151 built
To achieve the higher 510hp rating, Roush goes into the 4.6L 24-valve engine and upgrades the reciprocating assembly. The stout new equipment includes a forged steel eight-bolt crankshaft, forged aluminum pistons with increased dish to lower the compression from 9.8:1 to 8.6:1, and forged steel H-Beam connecting rods. The lower compression ratio allows for extra boost pressure. The extra strength components, Eaton TVS 2300 supercharger, and high-capacity air-to-water intercooler support the 510hp rating. Compared to the Blackjack, the P-51A also has bigger injectors and larger induction.
- 4.6L SOHC three-valve V-8
- 281 ci
- 3.55-inch bore
- 3.54-inch stroke
- Forged steel crank
- Forged H-beam rods
- Forged pistons
- 8.6:1 compression
- RoushCharger (Eaton TVS 2300 supercharger)
- Dual 60mm throttle body
- Special fuel rails
- 52 lb/hr injectors
- 510 hp
- 510 lb-ft torque
- Tremec five-speed manual
- Short-throw shifter
- 8.8-inch
- 3.55 gears
- Roush off-road exhaust system
- Front: Roush Stage III Suspension including front struts, replacement springs, antisway bar, strut tower brace
- Rear: Roush Stage III Suspension including shocks, springs, antisway bar, and pinion snubber
- Roush wheelhop reduction kit
- Front: 14-inch two-piece rotors, four-piston calipers
- Rear: OE disc with calipers painted to match the front
- Roush forged chrome, 18 by 10
- BFGoodrich g-Force T/A KDW, P275/40ZR18
- Custom Roush Leather Sport Bucket Seats with P-51A logo, aluminum accessory upgrade, Auto Meter three-gauge pod, custom 400-watt DVD Stereo with navigation
- Metallic Silver paint, Olive Drab hood stripe, Roush four-piece body kit, LED taillights and rear brake light, headlight splitters, Lambo Style Doors by LSD, painted Mirror Covers


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The Filigree Crystal Tiara w/ Pearl Accents is 1.5" high x 5.5" diameter. Plated in Sterling Silver with a comb on each end. Fits all size heads.
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DONATING YOUR CAR TO CHARITY? Don't get taken for a ride. Donating your car is rarely as simple as making phone call, having it towed, and taking a tax write-off.
Basic information you should know before donating your car.
Your tax deduction depends on how a charity uses your vehicle.


text:
Lagos — German airline Lufthansa yesterday said its flights have not been disrupted in Nigeria, contrary to a report that said termination of its agreement with the Federal Government forced it to stop operations
Hakeem Jimoh, Lufthansa's media consultant, however, confirmed the cancellation of the Memorandum of Understanding entered into with the Nigerian government.
"The Nigeria Aviation Ministry has cancelled the Memorandum of Understanding not the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA). However, there have been no cancellation or interruption of our flights.
"Lufthansa has no outstanding financial obligations towards Nigeria whatsoever. It honours the laws of any country it operates in and agreements/contracts we sign," he said.
He added: "German government is holding talks with the Nigerian government about the air traffic rights between the two countries."
Attempts to get the aviation minister's spokesman Mr. Joe obi to comment were not successful as he could not be reached by telephone.


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DSM-5: Why (and What) Parents Should Know About It
Tuesday, May 21st, 2013
As a parent, you may be wondering why such a fuss is being made about the release of the DSM-5 (the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of the American Psychiatric Association). Here is a brief overview of why it may be (0r become) relevant to you – and why it's important to learn about the issues that are being debated.
Many Kids Will Experience A Mental Disorder
The primary reason parents need to know about DSM-5 is that many psychiatric disorders that originate in childhood are not uncommon. Consider some rough numbers:
- Around 1 in 50 kids are being diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Around 1 in 10 kids are being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Around 1 in 10 kids are being diagnosed with Conduct Disorder
- Around 1 in 10 kids are being diagnosed with an Anxiety Disorder
- Around 1 in 10 kids are being diagnosed with a Mood Disorder
- Around 1 in 2 teens have reported meeting diagnostic criteria for at least 1 disorder in their lifetime
Having a good look at these numbers means that lots of parents will be faced at some point in time with the possibility of having their child evaluated for a disorder – and will need to consider treatment options. That's where the DSM-5 comes in.
DSM-5 Is The Primary Guide For Clinical Diagnosis
The DSM-5 is the handbook used by a broad range of health care professionals who evaluate individuals (youth and adults) for potential psychiatric disorders. It's an authoritative guide that reflects a consensus statement on the best way to categorize disorders along with the specific symptoms and rules to be used to make a diagnosis. The intention is to make it reflect current clinical thinking that is supported by research. It is not perfect, it reflects a particular point of view by those charged with generating the guidelines, and there is much debate (and criticism) of the diagnostic approach taken by the DSM-5.
All that said, the fact remains that the DSM-5 will be used if you bring your child to a health care professional for evaluation. The clinician will consider lots of information during this process – the DSM-5 does not dictate what information they use and how they get it. It's intended to serve as a guide to the endpoint of making (or not making) a diagnosis. And it serves as the template for a health care provider to request reimbursement from insurance companies to support treatment.
Why All The Controversy Now?
The DSM-5 is a revision of the prior version which was released in 2000. As such, it includes a number of changes – some of which are minor, some of which are major. Beyond the more general discussions about what's "normal" and what isn't, the key things that parents need to know are the practical implications of the changes. As a parent, you should be aware of the changes to disorders that are especially relevant for youth. Here's a brief overview:
Autism Spectrum Disorder: Major changes have occurred. In the prior version, a spectrum of disorders were available to clinicians, reflecting important variations in symptom profile. Four disorders were listed: Autistic Disorder, Asperger's Disorder, Childhood Disintegration Disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified. The key change is that there is now just one diagnosis made of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) – and the other diagnostic categories will no longer be used. Proponents of this change suggest that it is more accurate by defining the core features of ASD that were common to all of the disorders in the spectrum and allowing for differences in severity level under one diagnostic umbrella. Critics suggest that a number of youth who require diagnosis and treatment will not be diagnosed – and that the reliance on severity levels may make it harder for kids with more mild symptoms to receive treatments they need. There's no answer to these issues yet – they will unfold over time as data are collected. But if your child is evaluated for ASD, it's in your best interests to be up on the debates and have informed discussions with your clinician in order to make sure you are advocating for the best care for your child.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Minor changes have occurred. In the past, there had to be evidence that a child showed symptoms of ADHD before age 7. That has been extended to age 12 in the DSM-5. There is also more attention to making diagnoses in adults more manageable. All of these changes mean that if you have an older child who has never been diagnosed with ADHD, they might now be evaluated differently. It's also important to know what isn't in the DSM-5 – a lower limit on age. That is, there are no guidelines in terms of how young a child may be when making a diagnosis. This is relevant as there have been (controversial) suggestions that kids as young as 4 years of age could be diagnosed (and many in fact have). Know that DSM-5 does not offer guidance here and you will need to make up your own mind if this makes sense for your child – hopefully with the appropriate guidance of a well-trained clinician. Overall, the worry here is that kids of all ages may be overdiagnosed.
Conduct Disorder (CD): Minor changes have occurred. Conduct disorder represents a persistent pattern of rule breaking behavior and behavior that violates the rights of others. It can be diagnosed in young children as well as teens. The primary change has been to incorporate symptoms indicating a callous and unemotional interpersonal style. The thinking here is kids with this profile may be especially prone to experience problems in the future – and require more intensive management and treatment. Be aware that these symptoms will receive more attention now in the diagnostic process.
Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD): This diagnosis reflects a major change – it is a new diagnostic category. The idea was to provide a diagnostic option for kids who show persistent irritability and extreme emotional and behavioral outbursts. The rationale for developing the DMDD criteria was to make sure kids who show these symptoms do not get mislabeled as having pediatric bipolar disorder – but still may qualify for treatment. The controversy is that many feel that there is not sufficient evidence to support this new diagnosis – and in the worst case scenario kids who do not have psychiatric problems will be diagnosed with a disorder and get treatment that they don't need.
Over the next few days, I will publish blog posts that consider each of these four disorders in greater detail, and provide some guidance for parents to help sort through these complex issues. There are no straightforward answers to be found – rather parents need to know about DSM-5 so they can be prepared to navigate the best decisions for their child.
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Original recipe yields 15 servings
Amount per serving ({{servings}} total)
Based on a 2,000 calorie diet
these spread out loads so its probably best to stick to the 1/3 cup per cookie. these looked lovely in the flower pot, my daughter gave them to her childminder for her christmas present who love...
They kinda squished, and the stick idea didn't work too well.
These cookies taste good. I put different color food coloring in the dough to make them look yucky for halloween.