text:
Did You Know…
Google has a 85% share of the UK search market, the rest divided between Yahoo! & MSN
25 million people search on Google each month in the UK alone
91% of internet users have used search engines to find the information they are looking for
That's a huge market for your products & services that can't be ignored.
So what is online marketing & why do it?
Online marketing is the marketing of products & services on the internet. It covers many different activities, which include search engine optimisation (SEO), pay per click advertising (or 'sponsored links' such as Google Adwords), email marketing, blogging & social media.
Online marketing ensures your website is found in online searches, across a wide variety of search media and it increases the traffic to your website. However, one of the most important things about online marketing is that it generates pre-qualified traffic. People have already made the decision to search for your products or services before they arrive at your website, since they are already actively searching on keywords relating to your products and services.
A highly visible website will enhance your company image online and raise the profile of your organisation, and last but not least, all of your online marketing activities will generate leads, enquiries & sales.
What should I include in my online marketing activities?
i. Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)
SEO will ensure your website is found in an online search on sites such as Google & Yahoo, for keywords relevant to the products and services that you sell. It's a long term strategy for your website, ensuring your web pages are 'optimised' for success in the search engines. The optimisation process looks at several factors which include keyword research, the design & structure of a website, internal & external links and meta tags. It takes time for a website to rank in the search engines and search engines are now very fussy about giving sites high rankings unless they deserve it! Gaining high rankings is not easy and search is becoming more and more competitive.
ii. Pay per Click Advertising (PPC)
PPC is a great way to kick start your online marketing activities, particularly if you want quick results from the search engines and can't wait the months it can take to gain high rankings. Businesses pay for text ads to appear alongside search results on sites such as Google, Yahoo & MSN and every time someone clicks on one of the text ads, a fee is paid. How much you pay depends on how competitive the keywords are that you sponsor. The most popular PPC providers are Google Adwords, Yahoo Search Marketing & Microsoft AdCenter. You can set your budget so that you don't overspend on clicks.
iii. Email Marketing
Email is a great way of keeping in touch with your customers and prospects, and much, much cheaper than sending out printed newsletters. Emails can be used in all sorts of ways – to give tips and useful information, special offers & promotions and to keep your customers loyal to you. Make sure you build your list in house rather than buy in lists as most people view emails they haven't subscribed to as spam. A well-crafted email, sent on a regular basis ensures your prospects don't forget about you and makes it easier to cross sell and up sell products & services.
iv. Blogs
A blog (or web log) is a website that is updated regularly with news and articles, a bit like an online diary but much more than that. Blogs are a very popular way for businesses and organisations to add regular content to their website and also interact with visitors to their website as people can actually comment on the 'blog posts'. Comments can be moderated so you don't have to worry about unsuitable comments being put up.
There are lots of good reasons to start a blog:
o Search engine friendly – posts can be indexed and be found in searches quickly (a few days)
o Allow organisations to interact with their audience
o A very easy way of keeping a website up to date – posts can be put up quickly and easily without needing any technical expertise
o Visitors can subscribe to blog posts by email or by a 'feed'
o Responsibility of the blog can be split between a few members of staff, so one person doesn't have the worry of keeping it up to date themselves.
o Gives you the opportunity to put your view on something, particularly if your organization is in the news – good for PR
o Some blog platforms are free – so low cost to experiment with
o Like SEO will raise profile of your organization online, allows your organisation to have a 'voice', good for publicity & PR.
Common blogging platforms include Blogger.com, Wordpress & Typepad.
v. Social Media
Social media is becoming increasingly popular and a great way for businesses to interact with their target market. As social sites explode in popularity, many businesses are seeing the benefits of finding the resource to be on them, gain fans, use social media for PR and find out what people really want from their products & services.
The most popular social media site is Facebook and My Space & Bebo are more popular with younger audiences. Twitter has really taken off in recent months too, & LinkedIn is popular with business professionals. All of these sites are free and allow businesses to further raise their profile online. But beware – social networking can be addictive!
For further information & advice on any of the above activities, please contact Sam McArthur, Forty First – www.forty-first.co.uk, or email email@example.com. You can also find me blogging at Savvy Marketers, www.savvymarketers.co.uk


text:
A collection of news and information related to Greek (tv program) published by this site and its partners.
Top Greek (tv program) Articles
Displaying items 1-4
'Frozen' characters cast for 'Once Upon A Time'
Jeremy Renner, Kristoffer Winters' Hollywood Hills area home sells for more than $4 million
Omarr's Daily Astrological Forecast February 28, 2012Story | Feb 17, 2010 | 3:19 PMBIRTHDAY GUY: Actor Geoffrey Arend was born in New York City today in 1978. This birthday guy currently stars as Dr. Ethan Gross on the medical drama "Body of Proof." He previously appeared on TV shows such as "Trust Me," "Greek" and voiced the...
'Greek': ABC Family renews for a fourth seasonStory | Feb 19, 2010Good news, "Greek" fans......

subset: commoncrawl


text:
The Day of Surgery / Getting Ready For Surgery / The Operating Room
Intraoperative Care
During your procedure, special care is taken by all members of the surgical team to ensure that no complications arise. Below are some of the considerations that need to be made immediately prior to or during your procedure.
If you cannot find the information for which you are interested, please visit the Surgical Care Online Resources page in this Web site for an Internet/World Wide Web address that may contain additional information on that topic.
Disclaimer - This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional. © 2009 Staywell Custom Communications.


text:
The Saudi Arabian man arrested in Texas for under suspicion of building a "weapon of mass destruction" is released after DHS learns he was just trying to build an IED, not watch Fox News.
Army finds Rolling Stone expose about employment of psy-ops on Senators to be "laughably manufactured," reminding the public senators don't have minds to manipulate.
New poll finds 67% disapprove of the Wisconsin Democratic Senators that fled the state to avoid a vote on the states budget. This rate drops significantly under a scenario where they never return.


text:
The University of Delaware Library will present a workshop on Genealogy for Beginners and a workshop on Using Church and Cemetery Records during the 2010 Spring Semester.
Genealogy for Beginners: This workshop covers the basics for researchers who are just starting to work on their family histories. It presents an overview of the types of records that contain genealogical information as well as research strategies for finding and recording this data. Participants will also learn how to search the online database Ancestry Library Edition for U.S. census records.
Time: Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Location: Library Instruction Room (116A), Morris Library, First Floor
Presenters: Rebecca Knight, Associate Librarian, and Linda Stein, Librarian
Using Church and Cemetery Records in Genealogical Research: Genealogy researchers can find valuable information in church and cemetery records. Some churches keep records of baptisms, burials, and marriages, which provide dates and family relationships. Tombstones and cemetery records often identify the names of family members and may reveal more than just the year and cause of death. This workshop covers the types of information included in these family documents and introduces Internet sites and resources in the University of Delaware collections that can help researchers locate them.
Time: Wednesday, May 5, 2010, 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Location: Library Instruction Room (116A), Morris Library, First Floor
Presenters: Rebecca Knight, Associate Librarian, and Linda Stein, Librarian
The workshops are available at no charge and are open to the University of Delaware students, faculty, and staff, as well as the general public. Seating is limited and registration is required. To register online, go to [www.lib.udel.edu/usered/workshops/current.htm]. Questions about the workshops may be sent to the Library via email to [email@example.com] or answered by calling 302-831-2432.
- End -
For Library hours call 302-831-BOOK or check the Library Web at:


text:
Stila Cosmetics 24kt Luxe Lip Gloss Set Review, Photos, Swatches
Stila 24kt Lip Gloss: Golden Charm, Precious Coral, Radiant Sunset, Vintage Merlot
Stila Cosmetics 24kt Luxe Lip Gloss Set ($30.00) is an excellent value set with four of the five 24kt Lip Glosses. Funny enough, Stila has since dramatically dropped the prices on their 24kt Lip Glosses to a measly $8 a pop, so you can actually go ahead and get all five of them for $40 instead of four for $30.
The shades included in this holiday set are: Golden Charm (a sheer warm-toned yellow gold with copper and gold shimmer), Precious Coral (a sheer, soft orange-coral with pale orange-gold shimmer), Radiant Sunset (a semi-sheer, fiery orange-red with golden and copper shimmer throughout), and Vintage Merlot (a semi-sheer berry-wine with gold and plum shimmer). The other 24kt Lip Gloss shade available is Brilliant Pink, which is a semi-sheer bright pink.
The 24kt Lip Glosses are non-sticky to slightly tacky, they're not too thick, and they tend to be sheerer rather than opaque shades. They're ultra shimmery and have a nice high gloss sheen to them as well. They can be a little gritty after they've faded away as some of the glitter hangs on, but it's something I've experienced the majority of glittery glosses. These also come with a brush-type applicator that requires you to twist the bottom to dispense the product–kind of an ew factor for me, personally.
Bottom Line: They're fun glosses, and while at $22 a pop (the original price), I hesitated, at $8 each, there's not much to think about!
If you want to know more about how products are evaluated, read out Rating System FAQ!
- Product: 26/30
- Value: 10/10
- Ease of Use: 4/5
- Packaging: 3/5
Recommendation: For super shimmery lips that are as affordable as they are bling-bling, Stila's 24kt Lip Glosses are a steal!
Availability: Stila Cosmetics
See swatches…
Stila 24kt Lip Gloss: Golden Charm, Precious Coral, Radiant Sunset, Vintage Merlot
Discussion and debate are highly encouraged, and we expect community members to participate respectfully. When asking a question, please check the FAQ section (above) for information about purchasing, price, dupes, and the like. If you have general feedback or need technical support, please contact us.
Comments that include advertisements, self-promotion, insults, etc. may be in violation of our comment policy and subject to deletion. Please see our comment policy for more information.


text:
With more than 10,000 responses, this year's Compensation Guide reports that CFEs earn 23 percent more than their non-certified counterparts. Learn more.
Leading anti-fraud professionals from across Canada will gather to share insights and learn best practices, August 30-September 2.
Prepare yourself to pass the CFE Exam in 2015 with the new 2015 CFE Exam Prep Course, International Edition.
Nominations are now open for three positions on the ACFE's 2016-2017 Board of Regents. The Nominations Committee will select three applicants to vie for each available position in this year's election.
We are the world's largest anti-fraud organization and premier provider of anti-fraud training and education.
Find CPE Courses & Self-Studies
CPE Requirements
CPE 101: What You Need to Know
Earn CPE with Fraud Magazine
Frequently Asked Questions
An Interview with James Holzrichter, Recipient of the ACFE's 2015 Sentinel Award
Interviewing: The Only Element You Can Control is You
Fraud Fighter Goes Beyond His 9-5 to Fight Fraud and Inform the Public
Education: Your First Line of Defense Against Cybercrime
Gift Card Fraud Will Be A Major Threat Post-EMV Payment Source
Card Faud In Mumbai More Than Triple This Year Times of India
Current Accounts Overtake Mortgages As Fraud Of Choice Guardian
Occupancy Fraud Poses Threat To Mortgage Lenders, Real Estate Agents And Buyers Alike Inman
Presentation Skills for Fraud ExaminersNashville, TN
Interviewing Techniques for AuditorsNashville, TN
CFE Exam Review CourseLos Angeles, CA
Financial Institution FraudPhiladelphia, PA
View Training Calendar
To ensure a better experience on ACFE.com, we strongly recommend you upgrade your browser to one that supports current standards. We recommend Internet Explorer 9 or newer, Chrome or Safari.
If you are using Internet Explorer 9 or newer, we recommend turning off compatibility mode.


text:
Place an advert
Buy a photo
Local Projects
"Link to LCC cabinet meeting minutes re parking in one Mosque area.
"I for one think there is nothing wrong with the tickets being issued. If they have done the crime etc etc
People should take responsibilit..."
"I thought it was rubbish and a very amateur performance!
I also went to see the Little Theatre panto, and thought that was much better and..."
Related Links
Copyright © 2015 Local World. All Rights Reserved.


text:
Narrow your search
This handy site catalogs some 35,000 free e-books for your Kindle app or e-reader.
Maker Ivan Owen built a fully functional flamethrower out of a blowtorch, leaf blower and flour sifter that uses common kitchen goods goods as fuel.
Crave's Michael Franco talks with Assistant Director Dennis Hotston about the new digs and the new actor, called by some fans "a better Captain Kirk than Captain Kirk."
It's a shame early visual-effects pioneers aren't alive today to see what they started, but you can. Take three minutes out for one dizzying ride through the evolution of VFX.
Following yesterday's rumblings about media deals to be announced at Facebook's F8 confab this week, The New York Times says Spotify and Rhapsody have signed on, and that movies and TV shows will also be part of the mix.
Add just a dusting of powdered sugar--or anything else--with the Powdered Sugar Sifter Spoon.
A new blight for blogs


text:
Request More Information
Please complete the form below to have a Cintas representative contact you promptly about our products and services.
* denotes a required field
** We will populate your city and state from your ZIP code
Let us know what you're interested in.
Please check all that apply:
How did you hear about us?
Notify me of important news about Cintas products and special offers.
View the Cintas Privacy Policy
Contact Us
For assistance, choose a category below:
Cintas Sales
Ordering Help
Customer Service
Cintas Careers
Supplier Registration
Don't see what you need? Click here to submit your question.
Send all mail correspondence to:
Cintas Corporation PO Box 625737 Cincinnati, Ohio 45262
More than five million people go to work every day in a Cintas uniform including employees from McDonald's, W Hotels, Royal Caribbean and many more.
Boost your profits, productivity and brand image with Cintas commercial cleaning services — and improve the comfort and well-being of your customers and employees.
Cintas can service all your first aid and safety needs and keep you informed of changes in compliance issues.
Cintas partners with our customers to provide complete Fire Protection Solutions. Our comprehensive service and innovative technologies ensure code compliance, simplify tracking and provide financial value.
Each year improper document management costs businesses like yours millions of dollars in liability and lost productivity. Let Cintas help you choose the proper document shredding, imaging, and storage program.
Cintas is a national supplier of cleanroom supplies, with an extensive network of regional distribution centers and local warehouses.
Every year 9,600 workers — just like yours — suffer electrical shock and burn injuries. Prevent your workers from becoming part of those statistics with flame resistant clothing and workwear from Cintas.
Believe it or not, one very effective way to promote your brand is to put it on someone else's product. A recent survey found that 76% of people could recall a company's name after seeing it on a promotional product.
A heavy-duty floor cleaner/degreaser specifically designed to remove heavy petroleum and solvent-based soils.
Application Method: Spray Bottle | Mop Bucket | Auto Scrubber
Soil Type: Petroleum, Solvents, Oils, Greases
Industrial Floor Cleaner/Degreaser can also be used through a spray bottle to clean petroleum based soils on industrial machinery and equipment.


text: Can any horse do the slow jog that horses trained in western riding do? How do you train a horse to do this? And actually, the same question goes for lope/canter. Also, if horses are just free in the field and they are running around with their friends, are they moving in a "collected" way or not? Thanks if anyone knows.


text:
Webster Central School District Board of Education adopted Wellness Policy 5170 on September 21, 2006.
The Webster Central School District is committed to providing a school environment that promotes children's health, well-being, and their ability to learn by fostering healthy eating and physical activity.
This school board policy focuses on three areas under the schools' purview:
Keeping in mind that our students spend one third of their time for 180 days per year in the schools, it is incumbent upon parents and the community to provide opportunities for a variety of healthy activities.
Please see Related Files, Related Links and Related Pages listed below for further information in these policy focus areas.
Specific questions should be referred to your student's building principal.
Visit the Nutrition Nuggets Newsletter (School years 2007/8-2011/12) for suggestions on healthy nutrition and physical activity. Click on Nutrition Nuggets Newsletter above, or see Nutrition Nuggets in the sidebar under WHEN.
Substance Abuse Information
Pamphlets for students and parents are available in all the secondary school health offices on a variety of alcohol and substance abuse topics. Drop in & browse
This webpage is not an exhaustive list of resources for teachers and parents, but rather highlights what is available already through the websterschools.org website and other Internet sources.
Please refer webpage comments to: email@example.com


text:
(1) The issuing tribunal lacked personal jurisdiction over the contesting party;
(2) The order was obtained by fraud;
(3) The order has been vacated, suspended or modified by a later order;
(4) The issuing tribunal has stayed the order pending appeal;
(5) There is a defense under the law of this state to the remedy sought;
(6) Full or partial payment has been made;
(7) The statute of limitation under section 16-604 precludes enforcement of some or all of the alleged arrearages; or
(8) The alleged controlling order is not the controlling order.
(b) If a party presents evidence establishing a full or partial defense under subsection (a), a tribunal may stay enforcement of the registered order, continue the proceeding to permit production of additional relevant evidence, and issue other appropriate orders. An uncontested portion of the registered order may be enforced by all remedies available under the law of this state.
(c) If the contesting party does not establish a defense under subsection (a) to the validity or enforcement of the order, the registering tribunal shall issue an order confirming the order.
Note: WV Code updated with legislation passed through the 2014 1st Special Session
The WV Code Online is an unofficial copy of the annotated WV Code, provided as a convenience. It has NOT been edited for publication, and is not in any way official or authoritative.


text:
I knew 2011 was a great year for games, but it became most obvious when ordering the top half of this list became a difficult task. There's quite a few great-sounding games I haven't gotten to yet and couldn't include on the list, such as Batman: Arkham City and Zelda: Skyward Sword. I probably wrote too much for this silly thing, but it was fun to reflect on the year.
Honorable Mentions: 2010 Games I Should Have Played Sooner
- Assassin's Creed Brotherhood
- Red Dead Redemption (the Undead Nightmare DLC deserves a mention, as well)


text:
Christmas Light Show Michigan 2012
Wayne County, Michigan
Coach Keller shares his experiences with the Wayne County, Michigan Light Show 2012
Hey there! How are you! The Christmas Light Show Michigan 2012 was spectacular. I must say we went to the Wayne County, Michigan Light Show and had a blast. I hadn't been in 4 years and this year was a spectacular show. The Light Show was awesome and it was truly a great one. The lights, the lights, and oh yes the lights!
Well, I will show you in this post some of the video we took and some of the pictures, I hope you enjoy the experience.
Schamel Jones, my sidekick, videographer, etc. wanted to go to the Wayne County, Michigan Light Show, so I decided to take her and while I take the pictures she took the videos. I think they turned out nice. Anyway, we had a blast.
The one thing I liked the most was seeing all the many cars come to the Light Show. We have this Light Show every year from November 15 till December 31, of every year. The admission price is only $5.00 and for what you get to see and the expense, the experience is priceless. Next year, plan on going, you will not be disappointed. Well let me upload some of the videos so that you can see what I'm talking about. Check this out below:
As you can see the lights were beautiful. See, I wasn't pulling your leg. So if you enjoyed that video check out this one below:
Well, as you can see, a lot of lights, a lot of action and I just gave you a taste of the festivities at the Wayne County Light Show. If you are in the Wayne County, Michigan area, why don't you make a plan to come down before the end of 2012 and see all the wonderful lights.
P.S. I have now added the part #2 Video
As always Make a plan & make it happen.


text:
I finished this one a while back but kept forgetting to snap a photo and post it. But here it is in all its completed glory. I'm doing another one with yet another color of this yarn, but this time, I'm twisting the cables every 6th row as opposed to every 8th.
My life is a Craft, not a blog.
Lovely Braid, great work buddy!
Dear Joshua
Looks great. I bought some great yarn in DC when I was working in Ameica and I'd like to do a similar kind of thing. What's the pattern? Would it be doable for a cable virgin?
All the best from the UK
The scarf looks great! I often use that wool/soy yarn. It knits up wonderfully and makes for good looking projects. It also felts well.
'nother excellent piece of work.
'love the cables.
I used 5.5mm needles on the scarf. The yarn has a gague of 17sts and 21rows = 10cm x 10cm It's Paton's brand Soy Wool Stripes with 70% wool, 30% soy.
That is beautiful! I like the way the cables stand out against the variegated colours. What size knitting wool and needles did you use?


text:
Nintendo DS handheld games console
4 out of 5
A unique rethinking of handheld control methods, with wireless gaming, twin cart format and surround sound.
The look of the unit is clunky and larger than the Advance SP. Using a stylus of finger to control isn't easy and that screen gets pretty greasy!
With the UK release of the Sony PSP delayed until September, Nintendo have the summer to assert their authority on the handheld market with the new DS console.
Reports from the Nintendo camp suggest they are well on the way to their target of 6 million units shipped by March 2006, but is the DS going to suffer at the hands of the competition as the Cube did against the more powerful Xbox and the more adult orientated PS2?
The construction of the DS looks a little suspect, but it's as robust as the Advance SP. In some ways, the PSP feels so precious to hold, and the open style leaves the screen more open to damage. It certainly feels heavier and the eject mechanism is more susceptible to breakage than the simple slots on the DS.
While it may not have the sleek feel of the PSP, it is very comfortable to use and more durable than one might think. We have had our sticky paws over both consoles and having witnessed a marketing assault at the new Star Wars movie, I gave six of the latest games a battering across 10 different DS units. Even with Joe public greedily clawing and dabbing at them, they were all functioning well, although the touch screens were a little greasy.
The retro feel of the DS is coupled by some forward thinking, both in the games, and in the console's design. The stylus, unusual to say the least, is more intuitive than one might think. The DS features two cartridge slots- one for the small DS games, the other for the larger Advance/Advance SP games. You choose which cart to read from at the start-up screen, which has a calendar, birthday recall, clock and access to the PictoChat and DS software download applications. The PSP pips the DS in the graphical stakes, partly due to the size of the screen, the power of the console, and the delivery, via Sony's proprietary disc. The DS does well in taking the games of the successful N64 (which gave the PS1 more of a run for its money than the Cube did the PS2) and adding the ability to display graphics in 3D via a new engine. Thus, the DS is the Advance SP, but with 3D elements. Nintendo bring all this, plus touch screen, local Wi-Fi multi-player gaming and sub-£30 games for just £120 more than the SP cost at launch- impressive.


text:
Oct. 31, 2012
BEAUMONT – If the Lamar women's volleyball team is to continue its tournament push, this weekend's matches will be pivotal as the Lady Cardinals will welcome both Oral Roberts and Central Arkansas to McDonald Gym.
The two teams entered the 2012 season as clear favorites for the Southland title, but things have changed in recent weeks as UCA has dropped two of its last three matches to fall to second in the SLC with an 11-3 record and a 23-4 mark overall. ORU is currently 8-6 in SLC play and 12-13 overall.
Lamar will be looking to build off of this past Saturday's sweep of McNeese State to grab one of the final spots in the conference tournament. The Lady Cards (10-18, 2-12 SLC) are ninth in the league standings and chasing seventh place Southeastern Louisiana and Nicholls. Both teams are entering this weekend with 5-10 marks.
Earlier this month, LU dropped both matches 3-0 on the UCA/ORU road swing, but this week's visitors will be playing a different team this time around as Cynthia McCollum made her much-awaited return to the Lady Cards last week. The senior was a clear star in Saturday's win over McNeese, hitting .345 with 11 kills and four aces, and she will be looking to keep it going through the last home weekend of the season.
Fellow seniors Christina Hobbs, Wendy Krell and Alex Morford will also be key in the hunt for the SLC Tournament. The group will be honored for their contributions to the Lamar volleyball program prior to Saturday's match with ORU.
First serve on Thursday is set for 7:00 p.m., and Saturday's tilt is scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m.


text:
Home / Store / Journals / Electronic Articles / Nuclear Science and Engineering / Volume 47 / Number 1
Floyd E. Dunn, Martin Becker
Nuclear Science and Engineering
Volume 47 / Number 1 / January 1972 / Pages 83-103
Format:electronic copy (download)
A model is developed for the study of fast reactor flux and importance spectra. The model is based on slowing down theories of the continuous slowing down type with suitable modifications introduced where such theories are deficient. The ability to obtain analytic solution for the flux and importance spectra depends on the ability to fit basic cross-section ratios (such as the moderating ratio) to simple analytic forms. The cross-section fits are used to obtain an expression for the slowing down density, which generally is a smooth function. Detailed cross sections, however, are used to relate flux and importance to slowing down density. The model yields good agreement with multigroup spectra on both broad group and ultrafine group bases and yields quite accurate values for integral parameters (e.g., criticality and reaction rates). In addition, it is found possible to obtain a good correlation of cross-section fit parameters with composition.
Your cart is empty.
Home|Invoice Payment|Nuclear Links
Privacy Policy|Terms of Use


text:
KamalColeman1935's soup
My stream
My TV
My friends
Newer posts are loading.
You are at the newest post.
Click here
to check if anything new just came in.
pennystocks4509.com The Best Day Trading Strat...
Traders are caught in-among the unstable markets and their want to boost their revenue. With the new buying and selling robot obtainable, the be concerned of locating wonderful penny stocks has ended for hundreds of traders. Now, you have to faucet into the complete-fledged accessibility of software program that pulls top penny stocks to the forefront for your advantage. If you've got never heard about the buying and selling robot, you are lacking out on a market advantage under no circumstances witnessed just before. The day trading robot handles all of the analysis you will need in buy
to transfer ahead in your investing profession.
Intro to Investing Robot
The investing robot was made in the early 2000s when an organization was in need of penny stock picks for profit. Day buying and selling has existed for hundreds of several years as people today designed a robust sense of the markets. Present day untimely demands of checking, studying, and shorts retain the possibilities flowing. Information of the investing robot started to arrive on-line as a way to make far more money devoid of risk. The robot compares the stock info and pricing from the
last seven days in buy to decide on the greatest picks for you. You basically sit back again, do almost nothing, and appreciate worthwhile added benefits of this software program.
How Does it Enable Your Portfolio?
The application ended the constant confusion of locating very good penny shares. The business has unleashed hundreds of penny stocks about the final two many years though the current market stays fragile. Traders have missing their curiosity and confidence in investing in new companies mainly because of this financial system. The trading robot eliminates this worry with advanced engineering traders with on the net
investing accounts will have an solution waiting around for them when they wake up in the early morning. This is far more than a profit for modern day traders it truly is an asset in creating their portfolio securely.
True Added benefits of the Software program
The benefits are over and above a money reward traders have peace of mind, confidence, and stability in the performing of the buying and selling robot. The fears of shedding hundreds on lousy buys have ended for day traders employing this computer software. If you stay unsure about the outcomes of this software,
stock trading software
it can be uncomplicated to try then return if you happen to be unhappy with the effects. You not only find out the essentials of great day investing with its data, you turn out to be a productive trader about time. The computer software has built it easy for day traders to work the markets to their advantage though developing solid portfolios worth shut overview.
Final Thoughts
The day investing robot is only a person addition to a wonderful studying experience. The day trading continues with or without having the application, but the rewards are not as promising. New
cedar finance
investors intrigued in taking an advantage of the markets will uncover the trading robot a ideal resolution to their woes. If you have actually lost a fantastic fortune in the market place, you can ease your strain as nicely. The very best factor about the investing robot is it is acquiring superior every single day. Much more folks are building much more cash, investors are acquiring the software program, and on the net buying and selling has turn into an incredible work practical experience for investors. No lengthier are they concerned about picks since the computer software handles the examination to save time.
← Front page


text:
WASHINGTON — — Let's take a break from the raging discord that has dominated Washington lately by remembering federal employees who died abroad in service to their country. With so much attention focused on what the government has done wrong, we'll end the week with words about government workers who died trying to do right.
Actually, four of them are central to one of the controversies — last year's attack on the American post in Benghazi, Libya. But this piece will focus on the individuals who lost their lives and not on the political messaging that still haunts their deaths.


text:
" border="0" alt="IronMax_Front_1, 9/12/11, 3:36 PM, 8C, 4200x2400 (824+2800), 100%, Bent 6 Adjuste, 1/20 s, R81.8, G69.0, B98.6
" align="left" src="http://blog.clove.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Motoluxe_XT615_thumb.jpg" width="179" height="314">We now have the Motorola MOTOLUXE available to pre-order on the Clove website. The first stock is due to be here late February/early March, priced at £215 (£258 including VAT). The MOTOLUXE was announced by Motorola last week alongside the DEFY Mini, which we also have available to pre-order here.
The design of the Motoluxe is somewhat unique in that it has a lanyard groove that illuminates in order to provide alerts. This is positioned at the bottom of the handset, beneath the 4", high-res display. It runs on Android 2.3.7 Gingerbread and comes with the new MotoSwitch UI, which is essentially the new version of MOTOBLUR.


text:
Pressure sensors SDE and vacuum switches for controlling all pressure values: programmable or as a modular product
Efficient and reliable pressure and vacuum monitoring and control combined with flow monitoring are of the utmost importance when pneumatic systems are used for automation.
These sensors broaden the range for which systems can be used, offer more safety and also provide the option of remote maintenance and monitoring. Quick and simple to operate thanks to the uniform control and display concept utilized with all of Festo's pressure sensors.


text:
Student Lunches
Well, I am from Canada and school just started. I am an university student, but have been very lazy making lunches. I have been going out to eat and I do not want to waste any more money. Sometimes when I make my lunches, they are boring (e.g. pb and j) and/or unhealthy. Are there any ideas or recipes to create a good lunch that is both delicious and easy? I would like a different lunch every day if possible.
Also first post and late night. Thank you.
Talk is closed, but that doesn't mean the conversations have to stop!
Check out this post for a more thorough explanation, and jump onto our Facebook page or our Twitter feed to keep the conversations going!


text:
Sign up for our newsletter
Civil War HolstersMedieval Collectibles has a wide selection of quality Civil War leather gun holsters, Confederate holsters and Union holsters. Our Civil War gun holsters are great for re-enactments, stage props, and role-playing. The Civil War holsters come in a variety of styles and colors. We have left draw holster, and right draw holsters, and hip holsters. Our Civil War holsters are available in brown or black leather. We have Confederate holsters and Union holsters that have, "CS" and "US" imprinted on them. These military holsters are great for finishing your Civil War union or costume.
Powered by Medieval Collectibles
Copyright © 2015 Medieval Collectibles. All rights reserved.


text:
Wedding decoration doll, Peru, 1939
Contributed by Maine Historical Society
The doll, dressed as a bride, decorated the reception table when Elaine Robinson (1912-1987) and M. Wilder Mitchell (1899-1970) married on June 26, 1939 in Peru.
Mitchell, who ran a sawmill in Mexico, married Robinson, of Canton, at the summer home of Robinson's aunt and uncle in Peru.
Because the home was small, only immediate family and a few friends attended. The ceremony was held at the archway between the dining area and living room.
After the tea-type reception, the couple drove off for their honeymoon. They settled in Mexico.
Other Information
- Title: Wedding decoration doll, Peru, 1939
- Creation Date: 1939
- Subject Date: 1939
- Town: Peru
- County: Oxford
- State: ME
- Media: Fabric
- Local Code: 2008.328.014
- Object Type: Physical Object
For more information about this item, contact:
Maine Historical Society
489 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101
(207) 774-1822
Cross Reference Searches
LC Subject Headings
Marriage customs and rites
Weddings--Equipment and supplies
Wedding clothing & dress--1930-1940
Mitchell, Elaine Robinson, 1912-1987--Marriage
Fashion dolls
Wedding costume--Maine
Mitchell, Merton Wilder, 1899-1970--Marriage
Mitchell, Elaine Robinson
Mitchel, Merton Wilder
Share what you know about this item
We do NOT offer appraisals on like items. Check our Note on Appraisals.


text:
Why do heavy thunderstorms and fireworks set off car alarms?
• The alarm systems of modern cars have a variety of sensors, but the ones that are most likely to react to thunder or fireworks are shock and pressure detectors. A shock detector senses if something bumps your car in some way. A pressure sensor detects a change in air pressure inside the car if a door is opened or a window is knocked in.
The speakers for a car stereo can act as pressure detectors. A speaker normally works by vibrating, according to the input of electrical signals, to produce sound. When used as a detector, the opposite happens. A loud sound or change in air pressure moves the speaker, producing an electrical signal that can trigger the alarm.
Lightning, or an explosion from a firework, produces a shock wave that propagates radially outwards from its source. A shock ...
To continue reading this article, subscribe to receive access to all of newscientist.com, including 20 years of archive content.


text:
Book Search
Everyday Arab Identity
The Daily Reproduction of the Arab World
Series: Routledge Studies in Middle Eastern Politics
Whether through government propaganda or popular transnational satellite television channels, Arab citizens encounter a discourse that reinforces a sense of belonging to their own state and a broader Arab world on a daily basis. Looking through the lens of nationalism theory, this book examines how...
Published September 10th 2012 by Routledge
New Regionalism in the Global Political Economy
Theories and Cases
Series: Warwick Studies in Globalisation
Following the financial crisis at the end of the twentieth century, regionalisms in the global political economy have evolved in a number of ways. This informative book brings together the leading scholars in the field to provide cutting edge analyses of contemporary regions and regionalist...
Published August 22nd 2002 by Routledge


text:
The New Zealand All Blacks are seeking their 17th Test win in a row when they play Australia Wallabies in Brisbane on Saturday Oct 20.
The All Blacks have prepared without coach Steve Hansen, who spent time with his seriously-ill father in Christchurch, before he died on Tuesday Oct 16.
Assistant coach Ian Foster said Hansen was still involved, adding that the team had well-established structures and routines that enabled seamless progress despite the disruption.
He said the team would show their support for Hansen by preparing thoroughly, while allowing him to have time with his family.
The All Blacks won the first two Bledisloe Cup Tests, which were played as a part of the Rugby Championship, won by New Zealand.
Australia claimed the final Tri Nations title in Brisbane last year by beating the All Blacks.
Rugby is thriving in Brisbane, due to the rising fortunes of the Queensland Reds Super 15 side. The Reds won the title last year and were the only Australian side to make the final series this year.
But the injury-hit Australians go into the Test without star winger Digby Ioane who has a knee injury.
More than 20 Wallabies are injured, including three successive captains. Consequently, lock Nathan Sharpe will captain the side in his final match on home soil – it will be his 112th Test.
All Black hooker Keven Mealamu will play his 100th Test.
Though this is a home game for Australia, they are unlikely to win. This All Blacks team seem destined for greatness.
They are seeking a record-equalling, 18 straight Test wins – the record is held by Lithuania, who have never played a top rugby country. Both New Zealand and South Africa have scored 17 concurrent Test wins.
While the Wallabies are ranked second in the world, there is widespread dissatisfaction with the team, the coach and the Australian rugby establishment.
ARU boss John O'Neill has just resigned, to run a gambling business. Many believe this will quicken the demise of coach Deans, who is unpopular with Australian fans.
Deans was a highly successful coach of the NZ Super 15 side, the Crusaders, but his reign with the Wallabies has been troubled.
He is currently embroiled in a public feud with star flyhalf Quade Cooper, who said there was a "toxic" environment within the Wallaby camp.
Last week, All Black captain Richie McCaw released his book, in which he says why he favoured Graham Henry over Deans as the All Black coach.
Though McCaw won five Super titles with Deans, he said Deans was under-prepared when he challenged Sir Graham Henry for the All Black job.
He also said Deans was unable to work with strong assistants: "… look at the record of Robbie's assistant coaches, there's quite a lot of turnover and fallout."
Enforcer Wycliff Palu returns to the Wallabies, replacing Radike Samo at No.8. The tough Scott Higginbotham is back at blindside flanker, which means the Wallabies will be more abrasive in the forwards, which should work in their favour.
With Cooper injured—and at odds with the Wallabies—Kurtley Beale is retained at flyhalf, where he has looked promising.
The All Blacks have a family environment and have rallied behind the popular Hansen.
"We'll be supportive," said flyhalf Dan Carter, "as we always are when one of us goes through something like this."
Peter Lalanabaravi has over 30 years experience as a rugby writer.
The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.


text:
Bryan Hughes is training with Walsall with a view to a possible move, manager Chris Hutchings has confirmed.
The experienced midfielder enjoyed seven successful years at local neighbours Birmingham before completing a switch to Charlton in 2004 and then Hull three years later, before parting ways with the Tigers at the start of this year.
And Hutchings is now exploring the possibility of bringing Hughes back to the midlands.
"We're having a look at him for a couple of weeks," the Saddlers boss told the club's official website. "It's a two-way thing and we'll see where it takes us."
He added: "He is a player of vast experience who is a very good footballer and likes to get forward. His knowledge will help the younger lads around him, so it's a situation that we're looking at closely."
Copyright (c) PA Sport 2009, All Rights Reserved.


text:
Mar 12, 2013
Pet Sweep
Posted by Honey
Filed in Advertising, All entries
Filed in Advertising, All entries
Introducing Todd Lawson's latest invention, the Pet Sweep, which will your pets cleaning the house independently. Lawson's animal-powered debris removal system will keep your home tidy & your pets busy. Here's your chance to have some fun with the pet lover in your life by giving them a Pet Sweep Prank Pack!


text:
To create a building you need to have people who are able to talk about green, and talk about the different pieces of what makes a green building, and to get other people to be on that same wavelength and to understand how these things fit together.
Architects, builders, engineers, interior designers, even real estate agents — these professionals are all likely candidates for being involved with a green building accreditation program. But sociologists? Not so much.
Just don't tell Assistant Professor of Sociology Beth M. Duckles that. || Ask the Experts: Beth Duckles on green building
As an organizational sociologist, Duckles wanted to understand one green building program's rapid rise to national prominence. The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is an independent, nonprofit organization formed to promote sustainable building practices, such as energy and water efficiency, the use of recycled and locally produced materials, healthy indoor air quality, and more. The council developed a rigorous certification program called LEED, for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, that awards green status to buildings that meet its criteria. LEED is not the only certification program in the country, but it is probably the best known and most widely used.
LEED's swift rise to prominence after its inception in 1998 intrigued Duckles. "I wanted to understand how they were able to so quickly get this voluntary standard out, how they were able to get it disseminated fairly quickly and fairly widely," she says.
As part of her study, Duckles studied for and passed the examination to become a LEED Accredited Professional, which demonstrates that she understands green building practices in general and the LEED certification system specifically.
"My idea was to try to get a sense for how they went about socializing people to be able to build green buildings," she says. "To create a building you need to have people who are able to talk about green, and talk about the different pieces of what makes a green building, and to get other people to be on that same wavelength and to understand how these things fit together."
Duckles also is interested in how policy affects the growth of green building, and vice versa. "There are a number of reasons why green building is unique as a social movement," she says. Whereas the civil rights movement, for instance, tried to change laws, the USGBC targeted the marketplace. "What I looked at is the bottom-up approach to that, essentially a market-based approach to social change instead of a top-down, policy-based approach," Duckles says.
In interviews with people involved in the green building movement, Duckles heard a common thread: college campuses are an excellent place to have an impact, partly because the buildings are owner-occupied. "We own them and we occupy them and we have fantastic facility management people here who really pay attention," she says.
Students, of course, are the other vital factor. "Having students engaged in that process is really powerful," she says, "because when they graduate and go to other places, they bring that kind of information and knowledge with them - the ability to ask those sorts of questions, to know the supply chains, to know the materials, to try to understand the life cycle of the products we use in buildings."
Updated April 22, 2010
The following links are virtual breadcrumbs marking the 27 most recent pages you have visited in Bucknell.edu. If you want to remember a specific page forever click the pin in the top right corner and we will be sure not to replace it. Close this message.


text:
Measurements: 3" Heel, 7.5" Shaft, 12" Circumference
(based on 10 reviews)
Reviewed by 10 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-10
Back to top
By Sassy Sandy
from Colorado
Comments about Women's Larya Leather Boots:
Love these boots! Comfy! Great color! Fun height! You won't be disappointed!
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
Comment on this review
Favorite boots of all time
By Rockstar Bio
from San Francisco
I adore these boots! They are super stylish and pull in lots of compliments, but they are also very comfortable. Even though they have a significant heel on them, I can walk around town all day and not have any foot soreness. Amazing! I want more pairs in different colors.
obsessed with these boots!
By Robin
from Charlotte, NC
These are such fabulous looking and unique boots! They are very comfy and look great with jeans, leggings or a skirt. I have gotten tons of compliments on them.
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
Love my new boots.
By BH
from Columbia MO
My husband purchased these boots for me as a gift after seeing them in a store. The fit is true and very comfortable. They seem to be well made and I really love the color. I may just have to order the Grey pair as well. The only thing I would change is the packaging for shipping. The zipper scuffed the top of the other boot a little bit because there was not enough packaging in between the boots. Thank you for a well made and reasonably priced boot.
Great boots!
By Ben
from Fremont NE
See all my reviews
The boots fit perfect and are very warm and comfortable! Great quality leather! Would love to have a pair in every color! They look good with jeans, long skirts and dress pants. A very versatile boot! I would recommend these boots for every woman to have in their closet. A must have.
Look Good and Comfortable
By Elizabeth
from Indy
The shoes were incredibly comfortable and looked stylish at the same time.
Picky meets perfect
By JP
from St. Paul, MN
Have been looking for a pair of boots in a light camel color, so these caught my eye. The sheepskin lining sold me. To my delight, the boots arrived smelling of fresh leather and a fit so perfect! Although i can easily fit into a B width shoe, I tend to have narrow feet, a narrow heel, and for certain a small calf. The arch also feels just right. Simply amazing. There is a still a little room in the calf for jeans & thick socks. The rubber sole is secure and comfortable. It's so hard to find fashion and comfort in one type of footwear & this is a sure winner.
Great boot
By Scrunchy
from Denver, Co
A great boot. Very comfortable and goes with everything.;Dress it up or casual. Love Overland. Always quality merchandise and excellent service
By Savvy mom
from Charlottesville, VA
This was my first purchase from Overland. I have been very impressed with the value and quality of their products. I purchased two pairs of boots from the Denver store and both pairs are great. My only wish is that I also purchased the bone color pair!
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
Very nice boots
By Shoe-fan
from Omaha NE
About Me Comfort-oriented, Stylish
Best Uses
Great quality, very comfortable
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend


text:
Why Did Beyoncé Quit Clint Eastwood's A Star Is Born Remake?
Poor Clint Eastwood is left with an empty chair again!
The director is planning a remake of A Star Is Born, and singer/actress Beyoncé (Dreamgirls, Obsessed) was going to be the star. Why did she drop out?
Beyoncé explained in a statement to E! News that she was looking forward to the production and the opportunity to work with Clint. However, she added, "For months we tried to coordinate our schedules to bring this remake to life but it was just not possible. Hopefully in the future we will get a chance to work together."
Hmm. Why wouldn't she clear her schedule for a potentially major showcase like this? Is she really that busy? Moving forward, do you have any suggestions for stars to replace Queen Bee? They also need a male lead...
Fall in Like with us! For the latest from Wetpaint Entertainment, Like us on our Facebook page at Facebook.com/Wetpaint, or follow us on Twitter at Twitter.com/WetpaintTV.


text:
Dear Editor,
John Pickerill's recent column bemoans the lost opportunity to have an intelligent, adult conversation about how best to help the poor among us, yet sets up a question that is based on unwarranted assumptions. Pickerill asks the question, "Can we help the poor by making the rich even richer or should we whine about inequality?" This is an artificial either / or choice that demonstrates a lack of true desire to have the type on conversation he seeks. He then goes on to describe the benefits of washing machines. To be clear, I like and use a washing machine.
I don't think anyone is going to cheer for abortion, but ultimately it's a decision I'm thankful I'll never have to make. Does Alex Miller allude to the state intervening, perhaps forcing a child rape victim, maybe her uncle, who happens to impregnate his hypothetical victim, to carry zygote cells further? Maybe carry them to the point where I doubt anyone could debate that there is actually a human that can sustain him / herself? This is one of the strengths of our country, a wall of separation from the Church. There will be no sexually inspired tortures by the Catholics, in this country. If you have a strange mark, you don't have to be worried about being burned at the stake. You won't be getting your head cut off in our country, if you don't believe that any gods have to exist for existence to be. The Bible will call you a fool though. Although, another tragic child abuse scandal in the news is something you'll probably be seeing in regards to the Catholic Church.
The Flower Lovers Garden Club of Crawfordsville would like to say thank you to the many people who made our 13th bi-annual Garden / Art Tour a success.
We are grateful to home / garden owners: Steve and Martie Akers, Loyal and Diana Bell, Byron and Karen Thada, Russ and Anita Arnold, DJ and Kim Ruggles, Sharon Foster, Mandy Jones and Brandon Turner.
Montgomery County Girl Scout Troops 2917 and 50331 would like to say thank you to Indiana Zipline Tours for all their help Saturday. Our camping trip started off with some rough weather Friday evening, but girls survived the night in tents at Shades State Park and then were able to enjoy a morning of ziplining thanks to the staff at Indiana Zipline Tours. Girl Scouts of Montgomery County appreciate Indiana Zipline Tours staff working with us and helping make this event happen.
Montgomery County Girl Scout Troops 2917 and 50331
I have always been an optimist but I feel compelled to say that we are headed for very difficult times as a nation. Indeed, we are already experiencing difficult times which will only get worse.
Just consider the challenges currently facing us. A huge percentage of our population is struggling with such these things as unemployment, underemployment, drug addiction, homelessness, broken homes, and broken relationships, and all sorts of conditions which lead to poverty and helplessness.
The General Lew Wallace Study and Museum would like to thank everyone who made ArchiCamp a success. The eight elementary- and middle-school-aged children who attended had a wonderful time making new friends and experiencing learning in a new way, due to the support of our community.
Those who wish to change history have obviously not learned from it. The Confederate flag, per se, has no more to do with racism than hoodies and Skittles have to do with crime.
Ron Carmony
At the upcoming State Board of Education (SBOE) meeting on July 1, one item on the agenda will include the Indiana Department of Education's (IDOE) recommendations for school A-F accountability for 2014-2015. According to Scott Turney, Executive Director of the Indiana Small Rural Schools organization, "IDOE staff recently spoke about the anticipated results of the new Spring ISTEP+ test with a proactive look at how the test scores will be handled in regards to accountability requirements in law." Turney reported that, "It has been no secret that there is potential for a drop in test scores based on what has been seen in other states when implementing a new high stakes test. News accounts have noted that in most states the drop has been from 5 to 30% in student scores. There is a belief that some relief must be offered." However, there are some federal requirements which must be met:


text:
An interview with Tessa Shepperson where she talks about her Landlord Law service, Easy Law Training, the conferences and the Landlord Law blog Continue Reading
An interview with Tessa Shepperson where she talks about her Landlord Law service, Easy Law Training, the conferences and the Landlord Law blog Continue Reading
Sean Hooker, Head of Redress at the Property Redress Scheme talks about his background and the development of the Property Redress Scheme Continue Reading
Ben Reeve Lewis finishes our short series on Property Guardians by talking to a couple of actual guardians to get their experience Continue Reading
A great interview with Serena Thompson, HMO Landlady at the recent Landlord Law Conference from Property Tribes. Here is the link referred to in the video: Serena's book Continue Reading
The nice people from Simply Business came and filmed me answering a few questions towards the end of last year, giving general advice to landlords. Considering I had a cold at the time, its probably not too bad, although no-one is going to ask the name of my hairdresser … Continue Reading
Last week I did an interview with Alan Ward of the Residential Landlords Association and Ben Beadle of TDS on the new tenancy deposit scheme DepositGuard. It was quite a wide ranging discussion which you can listen to in the video below. Note that the discussion (which was recorded on 18 April) has a scoop… Continue Reading
Tom Derrett talks about tenancy deposits and the problems that landlords can experience. He also has some good suggestions to help landlords avoid problem situations Continue Reading
The Landlord Law Blog from Tessa Shepperson
Tessa is an English lawyer specialising in residential landlord and tenant law.
Legal services are provided via Tessa's online service Landlord Law. Some advice services are provided by Tessa, other legal services are provided by specialist housing firm Anthony Gold.
The purpose of this blog is to provide information, comment and discussion. Although Tessa, or guest bloggers, may from time to time, give helpful comments to readers' questions, these can only be based on the information given by the reader in his or her comment, which may not contain all material facts. Any comments or suggestions provided by Tessa or any guest bloggers should not therefore be relied upon as a substitute for legal advice from a qualified lawyer regarding any actual legal issue or dispute.
Nothing on this website should be construed as legal advice or perceived as creating a lawyer-client relationship (apart from the Fast Track block clinic service - so far as the questioners only are concerned).
Please note that any opinion expressed by a guest blogger is his or hers alone, and does not necessarily reflect the views of Tessa Shepperson, or the other writers on this blog.
Lodger Landlord | Google+ | Your Law Store | How to Evict Your Tenant website | the Which Tenancy Agreement Guide | Landlords Tips | Tenants Tips | Landlord Law Store


text:
- Home
- About
- Conference 2015
- Members
- Initiatives
- Awards
- Resources
- Join CSWA
May the Identity Be With You: How Nature vs. Nuture Plays Out In Star Wars
by Elizabeth Howell
"This is the prime minister's plane," my father said to me. I peered up the steep stairs into the empty Challenger business jet, calculating how I would get my short legs up the slope. "Go ahead inside."
Decades later, I look back on my childhood and wonder how much my father's profession – aviation – had to do with my decision to be a full-time space and science journalist today.
Much of our identity comes from the people we grow up with. We also have, however, innate talents that we cultivate and use as we get older. The debate rages among psychologists: Nature vs. nuture. Family vs. friends. Which influences us more?
Last summer, I explored these questions in Star Wars: Identities. It's a travelling exhibit (then in Montreal, now in Edmonton) that follows the paths of Luke Skywalker and his father, Anakin – better known to science fiction geeks as Darth Vader.
While reading more about the different families and friends these people encountered when they were growing up, visitors to the exhibit can create their own character, choose the influences upon them and see how their creations turn out.
The first stop asked me what I wanted to be. The choice was easy for a kid who grew up flying in Douglas DC-3 cockpits and the grownup who watched shuttle launches from the Kennedy Space Center: a Jedi Knight. I wanted the fast jets, the electrified lightsabers, the ability to move objects with my mind.
That was the easy part, but as I walked through the exhibit everything became harder. Which planet did I want to live on? Who should I hang out with? What skills did I want to develop? Did I want the Force to be strong with me, or weaker to allow other influences to play upon my development?
It was hard to design my own hero, or villain, as the case may be. And all the while, I knew I was going to have to face a strong foe at the end of the journey, using whatever skills and friends I picked up along the way.
The exhibit did a decent job at mixing in the current science concerning the influences people receive as they grow up, and portraying the stages of childhood. I would have preferred more uncertainty about the findings, however, as this field of psychology is always evolving.
Identities includes a large bonus for Star Wars aficionados: original sketches, costumes and models from all six movies. Seeing Yoda, I admit, gave me a lump in my throat.
The exhibit will surely drum up interest ahead of the new Star Wars movies announced after the recent Disney acquisition of the franchise.
Tagged with: aviation • Darth Vader • identity • Luke Skywalker • nature • nurture • psychology • Star Wars • Yoda
Members Login
CSWA Member Blogs
- Anne Steinø
- Barry Shell
- Bob McDonald
- Cadell Last
- Chris Atack
- Colin Schultz
- David Millar
- Diane Kwon
- Elizabeth Howell
- Georger Mercer
- Heather Maughan
- Juanita Bawagan
- Jude Isabella
- Justin Joschko
- Kasra Hassani
- Kimberly Moynahan
- Kristina Campbell
- Mark Green
- Mark Winston
- Meredith Hanel
- Michael Ross
- Naomi Stewart
- Nicola Temple
- Pam Lincez
- Robert Aboukhalil
- Robyn Braun
- Ron Miksha
- Ross Lockwood
- Sarah Boon
- Sarah Dowler
- Sci/Why
- Scott Unger
- Shelly Fan
- Stephen Strauss
- Susan Eaton
- Tyler Irving


text:
The LEMTOSH, up close and personal, in Portugal.
The LEMTOSH, hard at work at Italian retail shop, Ottica Tullino (who also stock MOSCOT)!
Spotted: The LEMTOSH, on vacation, in Austria!
Mid-conversation with The LEMTOSH…in Rome.
Our awesome Korean distribution partners, CED, re-created our hanging MOSCOT mannequin heads! LOVE!
The MILTZEN…beer goggles edition. Have a great weekend, everyone!
Special delivery…our NEW Spring 2013 MOSCOT Originals have arrived at the offices of our Korean distributors, CED, and will be in retail shops next week!
Spotted: The NEBB, stolen aka "borrowed" by Ihsahn's one and only Valentine, his wife and artist, Star of Ash aka Heidi S. Tveitan. Super sweet.


text:
North Carolina is the leading state when it comes to producing both sweet potatoes and tobacco, and a new N.C. State University research project is designed to build on both strengths to create new markets for farmers. The Sweet Potato Dehydration Project is exploring ways to use tobacco-curing barns to dry sweet potatoes for use in pet food and animal feed.
Can we in the United States benefit from observing and understanding successful economic strategies in other countries? Mike Walden discusses.
The latest research related to turfgrass will be the focus of an N.C. State University field day set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10, in Raleigh.
Four FFA members were elected state officers at the 2011-2012 State FFA Convention held at the Raleigh Convention Center June 21-23. New officers are State President John Stewart of Knightdale; State Vice President Caroline Tart of Goldsboro; State Vice President Beverly Hampton of Mount Ulla; State Vice President Katie Cauthen of Mount Pleasant; State Vice President Hannah Russell of Asheboro; and State Vice President Alyssa Ramsey of Marshall.


text:
Register now for free, or sign in with any of these services:
Want to set your local edition?
Select an edition for more focused local news coverage when you visit mlive.
Don't worry. You can change this setting at any time to another local edition.
I think it's clear that the 0 ints are in the second half and OT (also the 998 yds). Stop trying to give the man a hard time and check your own facts.
What does that mean? Situational capacity...
You can't argue with success.
I still can't believe it!
I'm lovin life right about now. GO AHEAD LIONS!
Big game in little d next week.
I feel that the Lions will not only start strong, but they will finish strong. Kinda like a Tiger's finish, but not as awesome.
Proud of the Lions...Really proud! GO LIONS!!!
Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy
© 2015 MLive Media Group All rights reserved (About Us).
The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of MLive Media Group
Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. Contact interactivity management.


text:
Mississippi State University mathematics instructor Kim Walters sums up her teaching ethos with a popular fable about a boy, a businessman, and untold numbers of starfish.
It begins when a businessman finds a boy throwing beached starfish into the ocean to ensure their survival, she said, and the businessman tells the boy he has a good heart but could probably find a better use for his time. He asks the boy if he really believes he is making a difference, with so many starfish on so many beaches. The boy simply picks up and throws another starfish into the ocean and says, "I made a difference for that one."
To subscribe to the E-edition, please click here [3].
[1] mailto:firstname.lastname@example.com
[2] http://starkvilledailynews.com/sites/default/files/SDN Logo_1007.jpg
[3] http://starkvilledailynews.com/eedition


text:
Maximumsafety Work Gloves
Protect your hands with a pair of durable, well-designed work gloves. Our selection includes gloves that are insulated, reflective, reinforced, coated, fingerless, padded and more, to accommodate virtually any working environment.
1 Item(s)
Grid List
Maximumsafety 39-C1375
Latex Crinkle Grip on Cotton/Polyester Gloves
Starting at: $2.73
1 Item(s)
Grid List


text:
DOD Issues Final Rule to Accommodate Updates to Contracting Activities
December 31, 2012
On December 31, 2012, the Department of Defense (DOD) issued a final rule amending the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to revise the definitions of contracting activity and departments and agencies found at DFARS 202.101. Pursuant to the final rule, contracting activity means elements designated by the director of a defense agency whom has been delegated contracting authority through the agency charter and has changed with the inclusion of DOD contracting activities listed under the DOD Procedures, Guidance, and Information subpart 202.101. The final rule defines departments and agencies to include the military departments and the defense agencies. The military departments include:
- The Department of the Army,
- The Department of the Navy (including the Marine Corps), and
- The Department of the Air Force.
The defense agencies include:
- The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency,
- The Defense Commissary Agency,
- The Defense Contract Management Agency,
- The Defense Finance and Accounting Service,
- The Defense Information Systems Agency,
- The Defense Intelligence Agency,
- The Defense Logistics Agency,
- The Defense Security Cooperation Agency,
- The Defense Security Service,
- The Defense Threat Reduction Agency,
- The Missile Defense Agency,
- The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, and
- The National Security Agency.
The rule adds the U.S. Special Operations Command and the U.S. Transportation Command. The rule became effective January 18, 2013. (77 Fed. Reg. 76,938, 12/31/12.)


text:
by Emily J. Weitz
Since Flying Point Surf & Sport opened its first store in Southampton in 1996, it has grown to become one of the largest family-owned businesses on the East End. The first Sag Harbor location opened in 2008, followed by their Bridgehampton space two summers ago, and their second Sag Harbor shop, devoted to women and kids, last year. And now, the company is preparing to move into a new building in the heart of Southampton Village
Flying Point recently purchased the 4,700 square-foot building previously owned by the Southampton Hospital Thrift Shop, and will turn the two-story space into the newest hub of the surf and sport community.
Somehow, all this growth has seemed to happen organically.
This week owner Mark Zucchero said he and his wife Shannon have grown their business since it first opened based on the growth of their market. It's the market – the adventurous, outdoor-inspired clientele – that has exploded.
"I keep outgrowing the spaces I'm in," he said. "I am trying to fulfill what people are looking for. This is a demand-driven business, and we grow to fit the demand."
Flying Point started with a focus on surfing, but other outdoor sports like skateboarding and stand up paddle boarding (SUP) have become major parts of their business.
"The SUP thing has exploded," says Zucchero, "and they [the boards] are not small. You need space for those monsters."
Longboarding, a form of skateboarding with a longer board, is a growing culture on the East End, he added, and Flying Point has been in the thick of it.
"The skate park itself dropped off," says Zucchero, "so we really embraced the longboard culture, which started in California. We have all the core brands, hand-shaped boards, slide gloves, wheels, and at every price point. The whole skate thing has taken on a lot of traction and we've really grown it as a team."
The Flying Point Surf & Sport name and logo has gained a lot of recognition and affection, and the company plans to capitalize on the fan base it has grown. Currently, they're working on a Flying Point longboard, which is being designed specifically for them by a board maker in Nevada. The private label has been successful in selling clothing and other fashion merchandize under its label.
"We sell our Flying Point clothes really well," says Zucchero. "I go through and do 20 or 30 designs on t-shirts and hoodies. We have one logo, the Buddha logo, done by my friend Brian Lucky, that's been a big hit. We've had to re-order them a couple of times."
Fashion has emerged as another key aspect of the Flying Point Surf & Sport business, expanding over the years to include a number of different clothing brands, shoes and accessories that are in line with the overall philosophy of the store – a store dedicated to life lived active, and outdoors.
"My wife Shannon has grown the women's store, and her sister Kelly has done a great job in the Sag Harbor women's store," says Zucchero. "We grew into more gifty things that you might not see in most hardcore surf shops. It's more boutiquey. We've evolved."
The store also features popular, but philanthropic, items like Tom Shoes, which gives a pair of shoes to a child in need every time a pair is sold.
Flying Point's newest Southampton space aligns the many faces of Flying Point. For those hardcore boarders who are looking to see the latest in gear, the upstairs will have everything on display. They hope to have a separate entrance, labeled the "Board Room," so people can go right upstairs to check out what Zucchero calls the "hard goods," including skateboards, longboards, surf boards, wake boards, and SUP boards.
"Downstairs I'll have all my soft goods," says Zucchero. "Sunglasses, sandals, clothing, beach stuff."
This means that the people just strolling by can pick up their accessories and other incidentals, and those who seek out a good surf shop can make the trek upstairs.
As they embark on another leg of the Flying Point journey, Zucchero takes just a moment to reflect on the successes they've had as a family business.
"The whole family is involved," Zucchero says, "and at times that can be challenging, but overall it's great. I love working with my wife. It takes a lot of attention to detail, and a lot of planning, but it's been really successful."
The Zuccheros plan to open their new Southampton space by Memorial Day.


text:
give away in a sentence
Example sentences for give away
There's a really long wait, but then a stranger shows up with a ticket he says he needs to give away because he's claustrophobic.
Which was a clue that measuring methylation might give away age.
Who will give away such a precious blue-green algae also known as green gold.
But everyone has something they can afford to give away.
We don't need enuf detail to give away any industrial secrets.
To say more would give away too many delightful surprises about this hour of well-crafted escapism.
Let's have them give away some more unfunded scholarships.
People are afraid they will give away too much information.
Venter also promised that he would give away the basic human code for free.
It does not, however, obviously make sense to give away in advance of a negotiation that you are likely to lie or cheat in it.
The logical conclusion is for artists to give away their music as a promotional tool.
If things go well, the stand might even give away the lemonade for free.
High taxes reduce people's incomes and wealth, leaving them with less money to give away.
We shouldn't give away powers without thinking but sometimes pooling sovereignty works.
Give away favorite toys, video games, music or pets.
We give away a lot of our product, and people embrace it.
He's determined to neither offend his inquisitor nor give away an iota of personal information.
Lucky for you, then, that we've got ten codes to give away.
Studies have shown that poor people give away a much higher percentage of their income than rich people.
Or maybe there is never a good time to give away a business.
It's not enough for philanthropists to give away money.
Groups regularly give away food on the library's steps, also attracting homeless people.
Never give away your only copy of a picture or video.
Famous quotes containing the word give away
If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if... more
It is normal to give away a little of one's life in order not to lose it all.... more
Man hoards himself when he has nothing to give away.... more
Explore Dictionary.com


text:
The Bachelor
Chris Harrison on Why the Game Courtney Robertson Is Playing With Ben Flajnik Is Working
Rosemaster Chris Harrison was on the media conference call this week to talk about why he jumped into The Bachelor Season 16, Episode 6 to talk to Casey Shteamer about the guy she's supposedly in love with back home. He also talked a lot about Courtney Robertson and he's not just asking the "Is she just in it to win it?" question anymore — now he's arguing that she does have real feelings for Ben Flajnik, but maybe she's just going about things in the wrong way.
Chris said neither Casey S. nor Courtney are anything like "Bad News" Bentley Williams of The Bachelorette Season 7. Chris actually compares Courtney to Kasey Kahl, who apologized for how he behaved on Bachelor Pad Season 2. Chris expects an apology like that from Courtney — although it's not clear if he expects the same from any of the other women. It's not like the rest of the ladies in the house were angels while Courtney was the only one snarking to the cameras. Remember all the toxic tacky cougar hooker slut names Blakeley Shea was called? Or when Emily O'Brien reportedly called Courtney "autistic" and the show bleeped it out for her? And how about every diss that was hurled at Shawntel Newton during her brief surprise appearance? Is Courtney the official scapegoat for every insult this season?
Read on for highlights from Chris' interview, via RealityTVWorld.
Could you talk about your decision to pay a surprise visit to the bachelorettes and talk to Casey S. and how much of a role Bentley and his relationship with Ashley played in that?
Yes. I'd love to pounce on that a little bit because I've heard this week, "Why did you do it if you didn't do that for Bentley or Wes [Hayden]?" And that's really the reason why we did it and why I did, because of those situations. I thought with Bentley, and I've said this several times before, that I should have gone a little further and I regret not going a little bit further and telling her even more. Yes, I warned Ashley and yes, we talked to her, but I think I could have gone a little bit further in protecting her. The Casey S. situation was completely different than the Bentley. I don't think she came on [the show] to deceive. I don't think she had any ulterior motives. In fact, her motives were actually quite innocent. She was just trying to move on from this guy whom she didn't want to end up with. But at the same time, it was definitely worth going in and talking to her.
It seems like Courtney is manipulating Ben this season, so where do you draw the line? How do you determine which situations are appropriate to jump into?
That's another great point. Someone asked me about Courtney as well, and that is a completely and utterly different situation. That is Ben making his own decisions. I mean, Ben — say Bentley was there for the wrong reasons. Casey S., we had information as far as her background with a boyfriend or whatever. And Courtney, if I find out that Courtney has a boyfriend or she's married or whatever, then I would absolutely bring that to Ben's attention. But Ben is dating Courtney just like he's dating Lindzi [Cox] and Kacie [Boguskie] and everybody else. And so, yes I can give my opinion and I can say, "What do you see in this girl?" But as far as that goes, it's never been my position or job to go in and say, "Really? You like Kacie B. — that Tennessee accent?" What he's going through with Courtney is dating and if he chooses to date this girl, then that's up to him. I think it's a completely different situation and I know the way you phrased it is that she's "playing him," but you know, that's kind of in the eye of the beholder if she's playing him or not and we'll see. And again, that's one of the beauties of this show — is this guy has to choose, "Okay, this model is beautiful. Is she here for me or is she here just playing the game?" And is he going to get sucked in to just going for this beautiful model or is he going to try to go deeper and find if she's real? So again, that's part of the beauty of the show — is they have to figure that out, just like you do in real life.
Do you think Courtney has true feelings for Ben or is it just about winning in her eyes? Do you see good qualities in her?
I think it's because I've been doing this for 10 years — I think it's just so easy for people to look at something and making things black or white. Nothing is that simple when it comes to anything, especially relationships. And the fact that Courtney is playing this game — and the thing is, love is a game. What you do at a bar on a Friday night or at church on Sunday or wherever you go to find love or meet somebody, there's a certain game element to it. If you don't think so, then you're probably not in the right game. This is the way that Courtney plays. This is the way — and again, it's not just to win, and I don't think it's just to play a game to her. I think she does have feelings for Ben. I think she very, very much cares for him. But I also think that from her experience in her life, this is the way she goes about it. Does it rub us the wrong way? Apparently. It's not popular. But is it working? Yeah. And so apparently, she's had success with this type of actions — this type of game — her whole life and it's working. She's gotten Ben's attention. She is affectionate. I'm guessing she's gotten attention and affection from guys for quite some time using this method. And so, it's hard to falter in many ways because it's working like a charm, but man, it's unpopular and she's not exactly going out of her way to ingratiate herself to the other women.
Do you know how Ben is handling all the news about Courtney?
Ben's doing great. I mean, I've talked to him quite a bit and honestly, a lot of what we talk about is business. (Laughs) He's been so involved in launching this wine industry and he's done incredibly well. So, we really talk a lot about that more so than the show, because honestly, we lived the show and we know what's happened and what's going on, and I know what's going on in his life and vice versa. So [...] we really [don't] talk about what's in the magazines or in the tabloids and all that. I really don't get involved in that either because I know the truth.
Do you see any similarities between Courtney and Bentley Williams?
No. I don't, not at all. The whole Bentley deal — the funny thing about Bentley is I never, and I know this might sound weird to say because I don't want to stick up for the guy, but I don't really dislike the guy. I've never hated the guy. I wasn't real happy with the way he acted and I think if we ever get a chance to talk to him or if he ever comes up to one of these interview shows or whatever, I'm guessing he would apologize profusely for how he acted and regrets a lot of it. I think that Courtney's probably like Kasey on Bachelor Pad. I don't know if you remember this summer on Bachelor Pad when Kasey came back to the reunion show and he said, "Man, I've been watching and that's not me. I apologize for that." And I bet Courtney would be a little bit like Kasey in that I bet she regrets some of the things she's done or said. I think she's gotten caught up in the moment a few times and I think that the apology that Emily gave and the way she reacted to that is a great example. I mean last week, that was just uncalled for — the way she acted when Emily kind of extended the olive branch. I'm guessing that she's home and regrets a lot of this. I haven't talked to her, but I'm guessing that'll be the case.
Do you believe Courtney should apologize to Ben?
Yeah, yeah. I think she'll — again, I hope to see her at Women Tell All and hopefully she'll come back — or any of these reunion shows. I'd love to talk to her, because again, I don't know if it's because I'm older and wiser and I've been doing this for 10 years, but I'm very slow to judge these people just as black and white like, "Okay. You're the evil person and you're bad or you're good." This show does strange things. It puts you in a very, very strange atmosphere and situation and environment that it's hard for people to understand. I do very much understand it, and so, the things Courtney has done to get attention from Ben, some of it I actually respect. I think she's done a good job of fighting for this guy, but I also think that she would admit — and hopefully admit — that she went a little too far and some of the things she said weren't appropriate and were rude. So, I don't think she owes him an apology, but I hope she would come up with a little bit of an apology to several people on the show.
Critics will say the very framework of The Bachelor will make women act in ways that are sort of demeaning to them or encourage them to act in ways you have described. Don't you think the way the show is set up and how it expects a woman to hang out with a guy for a week or a month and then fall in love with him encourages that type of behavior?
I have a daughter and you bring up a great point. Here's the thing. What this show does, and it's why I love, love, love this show — I think it's just a great, phenomenal study of human behavior — because look at the women who have been on this show. Just take this season. Look at Kacie. Look at Lindzi and look at Emily. In no way do I feel like any of them have changed who they are. I feel they haven't compromised any of their virtues, any of their morals. I feel like, yes, Kacie B. went bikini skiing down a street in San Francisco, which was silly. But did that really compromise her morals? No. She had fun with it and it was funny and it was an experience of a lifetime. But this show will force you to question yourself and force you to really take a stand on what's really important to you. For Jamie, is it more important to try to win Ben by jumping on his lap and kissing him in a way that you would never do, or is it more important to not do that and leave with your morals and dignity and say, "You know what? This guy's not for me. It's not working," and move on? So, I like that this show forces you to make those decisions. I was trying to think of the guy that passed out on Night 1 with Ashley. Nobody told that guy, "Hey, come on the show and drink more than Seattle slew." That's up to you. Nobody tells you that you need to drink. Nobody tells you at a bar on Friday night or anywhere that you have to act like that, yet people do. I just think it forces great social issues and that it's up to you.
Did you expect that Courtney would get this far?
Yeah, I mean, he was infatuated with her from the moment she stepped out of the limo. You can tell that he was taken by her and she for one reason or another definitely has his number. She knows how to excite him and draw him in and kind of play hard to get at times and he loves it. He loves the way she — again, you have to understand the audience and who you're playing to. Would this work on Brad Womack or Jake Pavelka? Maybe not, but Ben is a different kind of animal. He has his own baggage and his own way of thinking, and this appeals to him.
What should viewers expect for the remainder of the season in terms of big surprises?
Wow. Well first and foremost, this week coming up is more of the fall out with Courtney. And after this week, we go to hometowns and so things are getting very, very serious. Ben is definitely starting to question — now that more people are speaking up about Courtney — and that definitely comes to a head. Really, from here on out, things are — it kind of goes to a different level. When you get to hometown dates and you start bringing the families into it, that changes everything. You will see frontrunners all of a sudden fall out of favor and then you'll see some of these dark horses start to emerge. This is the time when things really start to shake up, because at this point, those first impressions have gone a long way. But now, there has to be something else there and/or that relationship is going to fall by the wayside. So things definitely either start to heat up with these girls or you'll definitely see a drastic fall off.


text:
Price Match Policies
RevZilla.com Price Matching
If you find a lower advertised price from an authorized U.S. dealer on an in-stock product, follow the process found below and we'll do our best to match that price.
From time to time, we'll offer a RevZilla Coupon, though this is not the same as our Price Match Policy.
How to submit a price match request:
- Add the item(s) in question to your shopping cart and use the form at the bottom of this page to submit the price match request (if you have other items in your shopping cart as well, that is fine).
- After review of the request, customer service will contact you by phone or email with instructions on how to place your order.
- Only advertised prices on available merchandise are matched.
- Competitor must be an authorized U.S. dealer.
- eBay auctions are not eligible for price match requests.
- Product must be new and in stock in the same model, size, color and year (if applicable)
- Any applicable shipping and/or handling fees as well as taxes will be included when calculating the price difference.
- Items priced less than $50 are not eligible to be price matched.
- TeamZilla cash rewards will not be earned for price matched items. This will not affect regularly priced items on an order placed with price matched items.
- Price matched items cannot be combined with other promotions or discount codes.
- If you have already placed an order with us, we cannot price match it unless the order still has a status of "In Process."
- All price match requests are handled at the sole discretion of RevZilla.com


text:
OUTLaw, the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered student association at the University of Texas School of Law, will host its annual legal advocacy conference on Friday, April 4, 2008. The program, held at the Law School in Townes Hall, room 2.138, begins at 1:00 p.m. and concludes at 5:00 p.m. Three separate panel discussions will focus on legal and legislative strategies, transgender issues, and immigration and asylum issues as they relate to the GLBT community. A reception following the program will conclude the day's events.
The conference is free and open to the public. Attendance at the program qualifies participants for 3.5 hours of CLE credit at no cost.
For more information about OUTLaw and the 2008 conference, and to register for the conference, visit www.utexas.edu/law/orgs/outlaw.
Leonardo Olivares, OUTLaw, email@example.com
Tom Henninger, UT Law Communications, email@example.com


text:
By appointment only.
Garuda Screenprinting, Inc. is a custom print shop located in the beautiful city of Chattanooga, TN. At Garuda, it is our goal to create high quality printed merchandise for resale purposes, to help our clients succeed in merchandising and branding. A high quality business (you) deserves high quality printing (Garuda). All of our printing is done IN HOUSE. We are very proud of this! We always say, "If the printer you are dealing with doesn't have ink somewhere on their clothes, be very wary". Have a look around the website, and let us know if you have any questions. Thanks!


text:
to adopt or closely model is not new, a number of groups have recently advocated it. The discussion surrounding renewal of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) has focused new attention on the effects of the current model, in which states independently develop standards that vary widely in focus and content. As Judith Rizzo of the James B. Hunt, Jr. Institute for Educational Leadership and Policy noted in explaining the impetus for the workshop series, NCLB has shone a "spotlight on the incredible variability of state test scores, both within and among states." The variation in student performance has caused many to wonder whether the logical next step for a nation committed to improving achievement for all students is to move toward common standards.
The Commission on No Child Left Behind, the Education Trust, the Fordham Foundation, and the American Federation of Teachers are among those who have argued in favor of voluntary national, or common, standards as a means of improving both achievement and equity (Goertz, 2007; Massell, 2008). Others have argued against common standards on the grounds that states, school districts, and teachers need flexibility to serve their students' needs and that reaching consensus on the shape and content of common standards—and even on a workable process for establishing that consensus—would be a formidable challenge. Complicating the discussion is the fact that evaluations of existing state standards in core subjects by such groups as Editorial Projects in Education, the Fordham Foundation, and the American Federation of Teachers have found many of them wanting (American Federation of Teachers, 2003; Editorial Projects in Education, 2008; Gross et al., 2005). A further complication is the fact that the term "standards" is used in a somewhat imprecise way. In the context of the workshops it was generally used to refer to both content standards, which describe material that students should be expected to learn, and performance standards, which describe the level of proficiency or mastery expected of them. Most state standards specify both.
To support analysis of these conflicting points of view, the committee wished first to examine the ways in which standards are currently functioning in the states and then to consider possible approaches to implementing common standards that could apply in all the states. Four questions guided the examination of the status quo:
What are the major roles that standards play in state K-12 education policy and practice?
What are the major strengths and weaknesses of K-12 state standards-based reform efforts with respect to achieving efficiency, equity, and quality? What are states doing to achieve these goals?
How and to what degree are the strengths and weaknesses of reform efforts related to the standards themselves? How and to