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Press release from PR Newswire
Avon Reports Third-Quarter 2012 Results and Provides Goals for Future Performance
Thursday, November 01, 2012
Avon Reports Third-Quarter 2012 Results and Provides Goals for Future Performance07:01 EDT Thursday, November 01, 2012Third-Quarter Revenue Down 8% (Up 1% in Constant Dollars) Operating Profit was $106 Million; Adjusted(1) Non-GAAP $152 Million Management Provides Goals for Mid Single-Digit Revenue Growth and Low Double-Digit Operating Margin over the Next Three Years Announced Reduction in Quarterly DividendNEW YORK, Nov. 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Avon Products, Inc. (NYSE: AVP) today reported third-quarter 2012 results and provided goals for future performance. "Avon's third-quarter results remain disappointing. The challenges that Avon faces developed over time, not overnight, and it will take time to implement the solutions as well," said Sheri McCoy, Chief Executive Officer. "However, we have identified the first critical actions to return Avon to a position of financial health and improve our competitive position. With a clear focus on growing the top-line, managing costs, and improving our working capital, I am confident that we are moving Avon toward a steady recovery."Third-Quarter 2012 (compared with third-quarter 2011)For the third quarter, total revenue of $2.6 billion decreased 8%, or increased 1% in constant dollars. Total units grew 1% and price/mix was flat during the quarter. Active Representatives were down 1%. Avon Beauty sales declined 9%, or flat in constant dollars. On a reported basis, fragrance was down 7%, color and skincare both declined 11%, and personal care was down 9%. On a constant-dollar basis, fragrance increased 2% while color and skincare declined 1% and 3%, respectively. Personal care was flat.Third-quarter 2012 gross margin was 61.2%, 270 basis points lower than the prior-year quarter, due to the net unfavorable impact of product mix and pricing, higher supply chain costs primarily due to costs associated with obsolescence as well as the negative impact from foreign exchange. Operating profit was $106 million in the quarter and operating margin was 4.2%. Adjusted Non-GAAP operating profit was $152 million and adjusted Non-GAAP operating margin was 5.9%, down 440 basis points from the third quarter of 2011. The decline was due to lower gross margin and increases in overhead costs, primarily due to higher employee compensation costs. The negative impact of foreign exchange was also a factor. This was offset by an $18 million decline in advertising, down 24% to $58 million.Based on the continued decline in revenue performance in China and corresponding lowering of our long-term growth estimates, we completed an interim impairment assessment of the fair value of goodwill related to the business, which resulted in a Q3 non-cash impairment charge of $44 million, or $0.10 per share.Third-quarter 2012's effective tax rate was 58.2%, versus 31.5% in the third quarter of 2011. The tax rate was unfavorably impacted by 21.0 points from the goodwill impairment charge related to our operations in China, for which no tax benefit was recorded. On an adjusted Non-GAAP basis, the effective tax rate was 37.2%, versus 31.5% in the third-quarter 2011, due primarily to lower benefits from audit settlements and statute expirations. Income from continuing operations in the third quarter of 2012 was $33 million, or $0.07 per diluted share. Adjusted Non-GAAP income from continuing operations was $78 million, or $0.17 per diluted share. Net cash provided by operating activities was $220 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012, compared with $247 million in the same period of 2011, as lower net income was partially offset by improvements in working capital, lower contributions to the U.S. pension plan, and a payment in 2011 associated with a long-term incentive compensation plan of $36 million. The overall net cash used in the nine months ended September 30, 2012 was $148 million, compared with a use of $192 million for the same period in 2011, primarily due to lower capital expenditures.Avon's net debt (total debt less cash) for the third quarter of 2012 was $2.2 billion, up $152 million from the year-end level.Goals for Future PerformanceManagement is focused on stabilizing the business and returning Avon to sustainable growth and has set financial goals of mid single-digit constant-dollar revenue growth and a low double-digit operating margin over the next three years. Management has the team fully aligned around actions that will accelerate top-line growth, reduce costs and improve working capital. Management is also targeting cost savings of at least $400 million by the end of the three years to be largely driven by a reduction in Selling, General and Administrative expenses (SG&A). It also expects that there will be charges associated with the achievement of these goals. Earlier today, the company announced a reduction in its quarterly dividend from $.23 per share to $.06 per share. This is part of an overall review of the capital structure and is consistent with prior communication that the company would assess the dividend in light of current operating performance as well as Avon's peer group. This dividend reduction, in conjunction with continued efforts to improve working capital, should help provide financial flexibility. Third-Quarter 2012 Regional Highlights (compared with third-quarter 2011)Latin America$ in millionsThird-Quarter 2012YTD 2012% var. vs 3Q11% var. vs 9M11Total revenue$1,270.9(6)%$3,663.2(5)%C$6%4%Active Representatives2%1%Units sold5%-%Operating profit142.2(16)%307.9(39)%Adjusted Non-GAAP operating profit142.3(14)%319.8(36)%Operating margin11.2%(130) bps8.4%(470) bpsAdjusted Non-GAAP operating margin11.2%(110) bps8.7%(430) bpsNote: Effective in the second quarter of 2012, the Dominican Republic was included in Latin America, whereas in prior periods it had been included in North America. The impact was not material to either segment. Accordingly, Latin America amounts include the results of the Dominican Republic for all periods presented. Third-quarter constant-dollar revenue was driven by growth in average order as well as an increase in Active Representatives. Brazil was down 19%, or up 2% in constant dollars, driven by increases in both Active Representatives and average order. Mexico was up 1%, or 10% in constant dollars, driven primarily by an increase in Active Representatives as well as higher average order. Venezuela grew 6% in both reported and constant dollars, as average order benefited from the year-over-year inflationary impact on pricing, but was partially offset by a decline in Active Representatives. The decline in adjusted Non-GAAP operating margin was due to lower gross margin, primarily impacted by the net unfavorable impact of pricing and mix, including planned initiatives to flow excess inventory and the negative impact of foreign exchange. This gross margin decline was partially offset by lower advertising spend and lower investments in Representative Value Proposition(2) ("RVP"), both primarily in Brazil. Lower bad debt and lower variable compensation were also factors. Europe, Middle East & Africa$ in millionsThird-Quarter 2012YTD 2012% var. vs 3Q11% var. vs 9M11Total revenue$ 620.7(11)%$2,008.4(10)%C$(2)%(2)%Active Representatives2%(1)%Units sold5%(2)%Operating profit53.6(49)%181.4(47)%Adjusted Non-GAAP operating profit52.6(52)%193.1(44)%Operating margin8.6%(660) bps9.0%(630) bpsAdjusted Non-GAAP operating margin8.5%(710) bps9.6%(590) bpsNote: Effective in the second quarter of 2012, the results of Central and Eastern Europe and Western Europe, Middle East & Africa were managed as a single operating segment. Accordingly, Europe, Middle East & Africa amounts include the results of Central and Eastern Europe and Western Europe, Middle East & Africa for all periods presented. Third-quarter constant-dollar revenue declined due to lower average order, partially offset by an increase in Active Representatives. The revenue decline was impacted by approximately 2 points due to a benefit from a Value Added Tax ("VAT") settlement in the U.K. in the prior-year period. Russia was down 9%, or up 1% in constant dollars, due to higher average order partially offset by a decline in Active Representatives. U.K. was down 25%, or down 23% in constant dollars. Revenue in the U.K. was negatively impacted by approximately 12 points due to the benefit of the VAT settlement in the prior-year period that did not recur in 2012. The decline was also due to lower average order and a decrease in Active Representatives. Turkey was up 9%, or up 14% in constant dollars, primarily due to growth in Active Representatives. South Africa was down 14%, or up 2% in constant dollars, primarily due to growth in Active Representatives. The decline in adjusted Non-GAAP operating margin was partly due to the non-recurring benefit of 2 points from the VAT settlement that occurred in 2011. In addition, lower gross margin was caused by the net unfavorable impact of pricing and mix and negative overhead leverage. Operating margin was also negatively impacted by increased overhead expenses, primarily due to higher employee compensation costs. Also, higher investments in RVP, mainly in Turkey, and higher advertising expenses, primarily in Russia, had an impact. Higher bad debt expense was also a factor.North America$ in millionsThird-Quarter 2012YTD 2012% var. vs 3Q11% var. vs 9M11Total revenue$443.6(8)%$1,390.6(6)%C$(8)%(6)%Active Representatives(12)%(12)%Units sold(10)%(4)%Operating loss(13.4)(419)%(13.5)(125)%Adjusted Non-GAAP operating loss(12.1)(232)%(2.0)(103)%Operating margin(3.0)%(390) bps(1.0)%(460) bpsAdjusted Non-GAAP operating margin(2.7)%(460) bps(0.1)%(540) bpsNote: Effective in the second quarter of 2012, the Dominican Republic was included in Latin America, whereas in prior periods it had been included in North America. The impact was not material to either segment. Accordingly, North America amounts exclude the results of the Dominican Republic for all periods presented. The North America Avon business (which excludes Silpada) was down 6%, due to a decline in Active Representatives, partially offset by higher average order due to stronger performance in Fashion and Home and Representative mix. Silpada sales declined 25% due to a decline in average order as well as a decline in Active Representatives. The decline in adjusted Non-GAAP operating margin was due to increased investments in RVP primarily related to the One Simple Sales Model implementation as well as higher brochure costs. Gross margin also declined largely due to higher obsolescence and the net unfavorable impact of pricing and mix, partially offset by savings related to the closing of a manufacturing facility in the U.S. Asia Pacific$ in millionsThird-Quarter 2012YTD 2012% var. vs 3Q11% var. vs 9M11Total revenue$ 215.7(8)%$655.8(5)%C$(7)%(4)%Active Representatives(12)%(9)%Units sold(7)%(6)%Operating loss(30.2)(245)%(3.7)(106)%Adjusted Non-GAAP operating profit14.2(31)%45.5(20)%Operating margin(14.0)%(2290) bps(0.6)%(890) bpsAdjusted Non-GAAP operating margin6.6%(230) bps6.9%(130) bpsThird-quarter constant-dollar revenue decreased due to a decline in Active Representatives, partially offset by higher average order. The decline in the region's Active Representatives was primarily due to China, where it has become apparent that our business is predominantly retail. We no longer include as Representatives those individuals who place their orders through retail locations. Revenue in China declined 31% on both a reported and constant-dollar basis due to ongoing business challenges in that market. The Philippines grew 6%, or 4% in constant dollars, primarily due to growth in Active Representatives. The region's adjusted Non-GAAP operating margin decline was largely driven by lower gross margin, which was caused primarily by the net unfavorable impact of mix and pricing as well as foreign exchange. Higher bad debt expense and field incentives were also factors. Partially offsetting these items was lower overhead, primarily due to headcount reduction. Global Expenses$ in millionsThird-Quarter 2012YTD 2012% var. vs 3Q11% var. vs 9M11Total global expenses$ 161.614%$ 515.27%Allocated to segments(115.4)(5)%(347.2)(5)%Net global expenses46.2124%168.044%Adjusted Non-GAAP net global expenses45.4110%141.228%Avon will conduct a conference call at 8:30 A.M. today to discuss the quarterly results. The dial-in number for the call is (800) 843-2086 in the U.S. or (706) 643-1815 from non-U.S. locations (conference ID number: 38905905). The call will be webcast live at www.avoninvestor.com and can be accessed or downloaded from that site for a period of one year. Please refer to the Form 10-Q for additional information on Avon's results for the quarter.Avon, the company for women, is a leading global beauty company, with over $11 billion in annual revenue. As the world's largest direct seller, Avon markets to women in more than 100 countries through over 6 million active independent Avon Sales Representatives. Avon's product line includes beauty products, as well as fashion and home products, and features such well-recognized brand names as Avon Color, ANEW, Skin-So-Soft, Advance Techniques, Avon Naturals, and mark. Learn more about Avon and its products at www.avoncompany.com. Footnotes(1) "Adjusted" items refer to financial results presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP that have been adjusted to exclude certain costs as described below, under "Non-GAAP Financial Measures." (2) "RVP" - In the first quarter of 2012 we revised the definition of Representative Value Proposition to represent the expenses of activities directly associated with Representatives and sales leaders including the cost of incentives and sales aids (net of any fees charged). RVP no longer includes strategic investments such as the Service Model Transformation and Web enablement, and it no longer adjusts for the impact of volume.Non-GAAP Financial MeasuresTo supplement our financial results presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP"), we disclose operating results that have been adjusted to exclude the impact of changes due to the translation of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars, including revenue growth, operating profit, adjusted Non-GAAP operating profit, operating margin, and adjusted Non-GAAP operating margin. We refer to these adjusted financial measures as Constant $ items, which are Non-GAAP financial measures. We believe these measures provide investors an additional perspective on trends. To exclude the impact of changes due to the translation of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars, we calculate current year results and prior year results at a constant exchange rate. Currency impact is determined as the difference between actual growth rates and constant currency growth rates.We also present gross margin, selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue, net global expenses, operating profit, operating margin, income from continuing operations, earnings per share from continuing operations and effective tax rate on a Non-GAAP basis. The discussion of our segments presents operating profit and operating margin on a Non-GAAP basis. We have provided a quantitative reconciliation of the difference between the Non-GAAP financial measure and the financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP. The Company uses the Non-GAAP financial measures to evaluate its operating performance and believes that it is meaningful for investors to be made aware of, on a period-to-period basis, the impacts of costs to implement ("CTI") restructuring initiatives, and the goodwill impairment and intangible asset charge related to China ("Impairment charge"). The Company believes investors find the Non-GAAP information helpful in understanding the ongoing performance of operations separate from items that may have a disproportionate positive or negative impact on the Company's financial results in any particular period. The Impairment charge includes the impact on the Statement of Income caused by the goodwill impairment and intangible asset charge related to China in 2012. These Non-GAAP measures should not be considered in isolation, or as a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT FOR PURPOSES OF THE "SAFE HARBOR" STATEMENT UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995 Statements in this release that are not historical facts or information are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "estimate," "project," "forecast," "plan," "believe," "may," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "planned," "potential," "can," "expectation" and similar expressions, or the negative of those expressions, may identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on management's reasonable current assumptions and expectations. Such forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievement of Avon to be materially different from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, and there can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from management's expectations. Such factors include, among others, the following: our ability to implement the key initiatives of, and realize the gross and operating margins and projected benefits (in the amounts and time schedules we expect) from, our stabilization strategies, multi-year restructuring programs and other initiatives, product mix and pricing strategies, Enterprise Resource Planning, customer service initiatives, sales and operation planning process, outsourcing strategies, Internet platform and technology strategies, information technology and related system enhancements and cash management, tax, foreign currency hedging and risk management strategies; our ability to realize the anticipated benefits (including any financial projections concerning, for example, future revenue, profit, cash flow and operating margin increases) from our stabilization strategies, and multi-year restructuring programs or other initiatives on the time schedules or in the amounts that we expect, and our plans to invest these anticipated benefits ahead of future growth; the possibility of business disruption in connection with our stabilization strategies, multi-year restructuring programs or other initiatives; our ability to realize sustainable growth from our investments in our brand and the direct-selling channel; our ability to transition our business in North America, including enhancing our Sales Leadership model and optimizing our product portfolio; a general economic downturn, a recession globally or in one or more of our geographic regions, or sudden disruption in business conditions, and the ability of our broad-based geographic portfolio to withstand an economic downturn, recession, cost inflation, commodity cost pressures, economic or political instability, competitive or other market pressures or conditions; the effect of political, legal, tax and regulatory risks imposed on us in the United States and abroad, our operations or our Representatives, including foreign exchange or other restrictions, adoption, interpretation and enforcement of foreign laws, including in non-U.S. jurisdictions such as Brazil, Russia, Venezuela and Argentina, and any changes thereto, as well as reviews and investigations by government regulators that have occurred or may occur from time to time, including, for example, local regulatory scrutiny in China; our ability to effectively manage inventory and implement initiatives to reduce inventory levels, including the potential impact on cash flows and obsolescence; our ability to achieve growth objectives, particularly in our largest markets, such as the U.S., and developing and emerging markets, such as Brazil or Russia; our ability to successfully identify new business opportunities and identify and analyze acquisition candidates, secure financing on favorable terms and negotiate and consummate acquisitions as well as to successfully integrate or manage any acquired business; the challenges to our businesses, such as Silpada and China, including the effects of rising costs, macro-economic pressures, competition, any potential strategic decisions, and the impact of declines in expected future cash flows and growth rates, and a change in the discount rate used to determine the fair value of expected future cash flows, which have impacted, and may continue to impact, the estimated fair value of the recorded goodwill and intangible assets; the effect of economic factors, including inflation and fluctuations in interest rates and currency exchange rates, as well as the designation of Venezuela as a highly inflationary economy, foreign exchange restrictions and the potential effect of such factors on our business, results of operations and financial condition; general economic and business conditions in our markets, including social, economic and political uncertainties in the international markets in our portfolio; any developments in or consequences of investigations and compliance reviews, and any litigation related thereto, including the ongoing investigations and compliance reviews of Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and related U.S. and foreign law matters in China and additional countries, as well as any disruption or adverse consequences resulting from such investigations, reviews, related actions or litigation; key information technology systems, process or site outages and disruptions; disruption in our supply chain or manufacturing and distribution operations; other sudden disruption in business operations beyond our control as a result of events such as acts of terrorism or war, natural disasters, pandemic situations, large-scale power outages and similar events; the risk of product or ingredient shortages resulting from our concentration of sourcing in fewer suppliers; the quality, safety and efficacy of our products; the success of our research and development activities; our ability to attract and retain key personnel; competitive uncertainties in our markets, including competition from companies in the cosmetics, fragrances, skincare and toiletries industry, some of which are larger than we are and have greater resources; our ability to implement our Sales Leadership program globally, to generate Representative activity, to increase the number of consumers served per Representative and their engagement online, to enhance the Representative and consumer experience and increase Representative productivity through field activation programs, execution of Service Model Transformation and other investments in the direct-selling channel, and to compete with other direct-selling organizations to recruit, retain and service Representatives and to continue to innovate the direct-selling model; the impact of the typically seasonal nature of our business, adverse effect of rising energy, commodity and raw material prices, changes in market trends, purchasing habits of our consumers and changes in consumer preferences, particularly given the global nature of our business and the conduct of our business in primarily one channel; our ability to protect our intellectual property rights; the risk of an adverse outcome in any material pending and future litigations or with respect to the legal status of Representatives; our ratings, our access to cash and short and long-term financing and ability to secure financing, or financing at attractive rates; our ability to comply with certain covenants in our debt instruments, including the impact of any significant non-cash impairments, significant currency devaluations, significant legal or regulatory settlements, or obtain necessary waivers from compliance with, or necessary amendments to, such covenants, and the impact any non-compliance may have on our ability to secure financing; the impact of possible pension funding obligations, increased pension expense and any changes in pension regulations or interpretations thereof on our cash flow and results of operations; and the impact of changes in tax rates on the value of our deferred tax assets and our ability to realize foreign tax credits in the U.S.Additional information identifying such factors is contained in Item 1A of our 2011 Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011. We undertake no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. AVON PRODUCTS, INC.CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME(Unaudited)(In millions, except per share data)Three Months EndedPercentNine Months EndedPercentSeptember 30ChangeSeptember 30Change2012201120122011Net sales$2,509.4$2,706.7(7)%$7,590.4$8,114.1(6)%Other revenue41.555.7127.6133.8Total revenue2,550.92,762.4(8)%7,718.08,247.9(6)%Cost of sales990.5998.32,964.82,966.1Selling, general and administrative expenses1,410.41,485.54,405.14,440.1Impairment of goodwill and intangible asset44.0-44.0-Operating profit106.0278.6(62)%304.1841.7(64)%Interest expense27.322.976.869.5Interest income(3.8)(4.6)(10.5)(13.3)Other expense, net4.619.028.425.6Total other expenses28.137.394.781.8Income from continuing operations, before tax77.9241.3(68)%209.4759.9(72)%Income taxes(45.3)(76.1)(86.5)(233.8)Income from continuing operations, net of tax32.6165.2(80)%122.9526.1(77)%Discontinued operations, net of tax---(8.6)Net income32.6165.2122.9517.5Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(1.0)(1.0)(3.2)(3.5)Net income attributable to Avon$31.6$164.2(81)%$119.7$514.0(77)%Earnings per share:(1)Basic Basic EPS from continuing operations$.07$.38(82)%$.27$1.20(78)% Basic EPS from discontinued operations$-$-$-$(.02) Basic EPS attributable to Avon$.07$.38(82)%$.27$1.18(77)%Diluted Diluted EPS from continuing operations$.07$.38(82)%$.27$1.20(78)% Diluted EPS from discontinued operations$-$-$-$(.02) Diluted EPS attributable to Avon$.07$.38(82)%$.27$1.18(77)%Weighted-average shares outstanding: Basic432.1430.7431.8430.3 Diluted432.5432.2432.5432.1(1) Under the two-class method, earnings per share is calculated using net earnings allocable to common shares, which is derived by reducing net earnings by the earnings allocable to participating securities. Net earnings allocable to common shares used in the basic and diluted earnings per share calculation were $30.8 and $162.8 for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Net earnings allocable to common shares used in the basic and diluted earnings per share calculation were $117.0 and $518.2 for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. AVON PRODUCTS, INC.CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS(Unaudited)(In millions)September 30December 3120122011AssetsCurrent AssetsCash and cash equivalents$1,097.5$1,245.1Accounts receivable, net758.8761.5Inventories1,302.71,161.3Prepaid expenses and other856.6930.9Total current assets4,015.64,098.8Property, plant and equipment, at cost2,646.42,708.8Less accumulated depreciation(1,142.0)(1,137.3)Property, plant and equipment, net1,504.41,571.5Goodwill443.8473.1Other intangible assets, net263.3279.9Other assets1,424.91,311.7Total assets$7,652.0$7,735.0Liabilities and Shareholders' EquityCurrent LiabilitiesDebt maturing within one year$684.5$849.3Accounts payable946.4850.2Accrued compensation245.6217.1Other accrued liabilities633.2663.6Sales and taxes other than income227.2212.4Income taxes41.398.4Total current liabilities2,778.22,891.0Long-term debt2,628.32,459.1Employee benefit plans592.3603.0Long-term income taxes60.567.0Other liabilities126.1129.7Total liabilities$6,185.4$6,149.8Shareholders' EquityCommon stock$188.3$187.3Additional paid-in-capital2,111.52,077.7Retained earnings4,544.34,726.1Accumulated other comprehensive loss(821.3)(854.4)Treasury stock, at cost(4,571.5)(4,566.3)Total Avon shareholders' equity1,451.31,570.4Noncontrolling interests15.314.8Total shareholders' equity$1,466.6$1,585.2Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $7,652.0$7,735.0 AVON PRODUCTS, INC.CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS(Unaudited)(In millions)Nine Months EndedSeptember 3020122011Cash Flows from Operating ActivitiesIncome from continuing operations, net of tax$122.9$526.1Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:Depreciation and amortization172.2173.7Provision for doubtful accounts191.3187.0Provision for obsolescence83.879.0Share-based compensation34.733.8Deferred income taxes(102.0)(94.4)Impairment of goodwill and intangible asset44.0-Other44.437.4Changes in assets and liabilities:Accounts receivable(186.8)(178.8)Inventories(222.5)(338.1)Prepaid expenses and other68.24.3Accounts payable and accrued liabilities73.0(55.7)Income and other taxes(39.0)(30.0)Noncurrent assets and liabilities(64.6)(97.1)Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations219.6247.2Cash Flows from Investing ActivitiesCapital expenditures(134.9)(197.4)Disposal of assets13.211.7Purchases of investments(1.9)(28.6)Proceeds from sale of investments2.033.6Acquisitions and other investing activities-(13.0)Net cash used by investing activities of continuing operations(121.6)(193.7)Cash Flows from Financing ActivitiesCash dividends(300.6)(302.2)Debt, net (maturities of three months or less)(624.5)566.1Proceeds from debt713.762.8Repayment of debt(90.0)(580.6)Interest rate swap termination43.6-Proceeds from exercise of stock options7.915.9Excess tax benefit realized from share-based compensation(3.4)1.7Repurchase of common stock(8.5)(6.8)Net cash used by financing activities of continuing operations(261.8)(243.1)Net cash used by investing activities of discontinued operations-(1.2)Net cash used by discontinued operations-(1.2)Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents16.2(0.9)Net change in cash and equivalents(147.6)(191.7)Cash and equivalents at beginning of year$1,245.1$1,179.9Cash and equivalents at end of period$1,097.5$988.2 AVON PRODUCTS, INC.SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE(Unaudited)(In millions)THREE MONTHS ENDED 09/30/12REGIONAL RESULTS$ in MillionsTotal Revenue US$C$Units SoldPrice/Mix C$Active RepsAverage Order C$% var. vs3Q11% var. vs 3Q11% var. vs 3Q11% var. vs 3Q11% var. vs 3Q11% var. vs 3Q11Latin America$1,270.9(6)%6%5%1%2%4%Europe, Middle East & Africa620.7(11)(2)5(7)2(4)North America443.6(8)(8)(10)2(12)4Asia Pacific 215.7(8)(7)(7)-(12)5Total from operations2,550.9(8)11-(1)2Global and other-------Total$2,550.9(8)%1%1%-%(1)%2%2012 GAAP Operating Profit (Loss) US$% var. vs 3Q112012 GAAP OperatingMargin US$2012Non-GAAP Operating Profit US$ (1)2011Non-GAAP Operating Profit US$ (1)2012Non-GAAP Operating Margin (1)2011Non-GAAPOperating Margin (1)Latin America$142.2(16)%11.2%$142.3$166.311.2%12.3%Europe, Middle East & Africa53.6(49)8.652.6108.68.515.6North America(13.4)(419)(3.0)(12.1)9.2(2.7)1.9Asia Pacific (30.2)(245)(14.0)188.8.131.52.9Total from operations152.2(49)6.0197.0304.87.711.0Global and other(46.2)(124)-(45.4)(21.6)--Total$106.0(62)%4.2%$151.6$283.25.9%10.3%CATEGORY SALES (US$)ConsolidatedUS$C$% var. vs 3Q11% var. vs 3Q11Beauty (color cosmetics/fragrances/skincare/personal care)$1,820.4(9)%-%Fashion (jewelry/watches/apparel/footwear/accessories/children's) 443.7(2)3Home (gift & decorative products/housewares/entertainment & leisure/children's/nutrition)245.3-8Net sales$2,509.4(7)%1%Other revenue41.5(25)(24)Total revenue$2,550.9(8)%1%Beauty Category:Fragrance(7)%2%Color(11)(1)Skincare(11)(3)Personal care(9)-(1) For a further discussion on our Non-GAAP financial measures, please refer to our discussion of Non-GAAP financial measures in this release and reconciliations of our Non-GAAP financial measures to the related GAAP financial measure in the following supplemental schedules. AVON PRODUCTS, INC.SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE(Unaudited)(In millions)NINE MONTHS ENDED 09/30/12REGIONAL RESULTS$ in MillionsTotal Revenue US$C$Units SoldPrice/Mix C$Active RepsAverage Order C$% var. vs 9M11% var. vs 9M11% var. vs 9M11% var. vs 9M11% var. vs 9M11% var. vs 9M11Latin America$3,663.2(5)%4%-%4%1%3%Europe, Middle East & Africa2,008.4(10)(2)(2)-(1)(1)North America1,390.6(6)(6)(4)(2)(12)6Asia Pacific655.8(5)(4)(6)2(9)5Total from operations7,718.0(6)-(1)1(2)2Global and other-------Total$7,718.0(6)%-%(1)%1%(2)%2%2012 GAAP Operating Profit (Loss) US$% var. vs 9M112012 GAAP Operating Margin US$2012Non-GAAP Operating Profit US$ (1)2011Non-GAAP Operating Profit US$ (1)2012Non-GAAP Operating Margin (1)2011Non-GAAP Operating Margin (1)Latin America$307.9(39)%8.4%$319.8$502.38.7%13.0%Europe, Middle East & Africa181.4(47)9.0193.1345.59.615.5North America(13.5)(125)(1.0)(2.0)78.4(0.1)5.3Asia Pacific (3.7)(106)(0.6)45.5188.8.131.52Total from operations472.1(51)6.1556.49184.108.40.206Global and other(168.0)(44)-(141.2)(109.9)--Total$304.1(64)%3.9%$415.2$873.05.4%10.6%CATEGORY SALES (US$)ConsolidatedUS$C$% var. vs 9M11% var. vs 9M11Beauty (color cosmetics/fragrances/skincare/personal care)$5,533.5(7)%1%Fashion (jewelry/watches/apparel/footwear/accessories/children's) 1,353.4(7)(3)Home (gift & decorative products/housewares/entertainment & leisure/children's/nutrition) 703.5(5)2Net sales$7,590.4(6)%-%Other revenue127.6(5)(3)Total revenue$7,718.0(6)%-%Beauty Category:Fragrance(5)%2%Color(7)1Skincare(7)-Personal care(7)-(1) For a further discussion on our Non-GAAP financial measures, please refer to our discussion of Non-GAAP financial measures in this release and reconciliations of our Non-GAAP financial measures to the related GAAP financial measure in the following supplemental schedules. AVON PRODUCTS, INC.SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULENON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES(Unaudited)This supplemental schedule provides adjusted Non-GAAP financial information and a quantitative reconciliationof the difference between the Non-GAAP financial measure and the financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP. $ in Millions (except per share data)THREE MONTHS ENDED 09/30/12CTIReportedrestructuringImpairmentAdjusted (GAAP)initiativescharge(Non-GAAP)Cost of sales$990.5$(0.2)$-$990.7Selling, general and administrative expenses1,410.41.8-1,408.6Operating profit106.01.644.0151.6Income from continuing operations before taxes77.91.644.0123.5Income taxes(45.3)(0.7)-(46.0)Income from continuing operations$32.6$0.9$44.0$77.5Diluted EPS from continuing operations0.07-0.100.17Gross margin61.2%--61.2%SG&A as a % of revenues 55.3%(0.1)-55.2%Operating margin4.2%0.11.75.9%Effective tax rate58.2%0.1(21.0)37.2%SEGMENT OPERATING PROFIT (LOSS)Latin America$142.2$0.1$-$142.3Europe, Middle East & Africa53.6(1.0)-52.6North America(13.4)1.3-(12.1)Asia Pacific (30.2)0.444.014.2Global and other(46.2)0.8-(45.4)Total$106.0$1.6$44.0$151.6SEGMENT OPERATING MARGINLatin America11.2%--11.2%Europe, Middle East & Africa8.6%(0.2)-8.5%North America(3.0)%0.3-(2.7)%Asia Pacific (14.0)%0.220.46.6%Global and other----Total4.2%0.11.75.9%Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding. AVON PRODUCTS, INC.SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULENON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES(Unaudited)This supplemental schedule provides adjusted Non-GAAP financial information and a quantitative reconciliationof the difference between the Non-GAAP financial measure and the financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP. $ in Millions (except per share data)NINE MONTHS ENDED 09/30/12CTIReportedrestructuringImpairmentAdjusted (GAAP)initiativescharge(Non-GAAP)Cost of sales$2,964.8$3.2$-$2,961.6Selling, general and administrative expenses4,405.163.9-4,341.2Operating profit304.167.144.0415.2Income from continuing operations before taxes209.467.144.0320.5Income taxes(86.5)(22.1)-(108.6)Income from continuing operations$122.9$45.0$44.0$211.9Diluted EPS from continuing operations0.2220.127.116.11Gross margin61.6%--61.6%SG&A as a % of revenues 57.1%(0.8)-56.2%Operating margin3.9%0.90.65.4%Effective tax rate41.3%(0.3)(7.2)33.9%SEGMENT OPERATING PROFIT (LOSS)Latin America$307.9$11.9$-$319.8Europe, Middle East & Africa181.411.7-193.1North America(13.5)11.5-(2.0)Asia Pacific (3.7)5.244.045.5Global and other(168.0)26.8-(141.2)Total$304.1$67.1$44.0$415.2SEGMENT OPERATING MARGINLatin America8.4%0.3-8.7%Europe, Middle East & Africa9.0%0.6-9.6%North America(1.0)%0.8-(0.1)%Asia Pacific (0.6)%0.86.76.9%Global and other----Total3.9%0.90.65.4%Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding. AVON PRODUCTS, INC.SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULENON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES(Unaudited)This supplemental schedule provides adjusted Non-GAAP financial information and a quantitative reconciliationof the difference between the Non-GAAP financial measure and the financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP. $ in Millions (except per share data)THREE MONTHS ENDED 09/30/11CTIReportedrestructuringAdjusted(GAAP)initiatives(Non-GAAP)Cost of sales$998.3$3.5$994.8Selling, general and administrative expenses1,485.51.11,484.4Operating profit278.64.6283.2Income from continuing operations before taxes241.34.6245.9Income taxes(76.1)(1.4)(77.5)Income from continuing operations$165.2$3.2$168.4Diluted EPS from continuing operations0.380.010.38Gross margin63.9%0.164.0%SG&A as a % of revenues 53.8%-53.7%Operating margin10.1%0.210.3%Effective tax rate31.5%-31.5%SEGMENT OPERATING PROFITLatin America$168.4$(2.1)$166.3Europe, Middle East & Africa105.82.8108.6North America4.25.09.2Asia Pacific 20.8(0.1)20.7Global and other(20.6)(1.0)(21.6)Total$278.6$4.6$283.2SEGMENT OPERATING MARGINLatin America12.5%(0.2)12.3%Europe, Middle East & Africa15.2%0.415.6%North America0.9%1.01.9%Asia Pacific 8.9%-8.9%Global and other---Total10.1%0.210.3%Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding.AVON PRODUCTS, INC.SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULENON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES(Unaudited)This supplemental schedule provides adjusted Non-GAAP financial information and a quantitative reconciliationof the difference between the Non-GAAP financial measure and the financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP. $ in Millions (except per share data)NINE MONTHS ENDED 09/30/11CTIReportedrestructuringAdjusted(GAAP)initiatives(Non-GAAP)Cost of sales$2,966.1$8.2$2,957.9Selling, general and administrative expenses4,440.123.14,417.0Operating profit841.731.3873.0Income from continuing operations before taxes759.931.3791.2Income taxes(233.8)(11.1)(244.9)Income from continuing operations$526.1$20.2$546.3Diluted EPS from continuing operations1.200.051.25Gross margin64.0%0.164.1%SG&A as a % of revenues 53.8%(0.3)53.6%Operating margin10.2%0.410.6%Effective tax rate30.8%0.231.0%SEGMENT OPERATING PROFITLatin America$505.6$(3.3)$502.3Europe, Middle East & Africa341.83.7345.5North America53.724.778.4Asia Pacific 57.3(0.6)56.7Global and other(116.7)6.8(109.9)Total$841.7$31.3$873.0SEGMENT OPERATING MARGINLatin America13.1%(0.1)13.0%Europe, Middle East & Africa15.3%0.215.5%North America3.6%1.75.3%Asia Pacific 8.3%(0.1)8.2%Global and other---Total10.2%0.410.6%Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding. SOURCE Avon Products, Inc.For further information: INVESTORS: Amy Low Chasen or Natalija Jovasevic, +1-212-282-5320; MEDIA: Jennifer Vargas, +1-212-282-5404


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"Same Day Music has been great to buy from. I have been suffering from a bad case of GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome) for the last couple of years and their SpeedPlay plan has been the treatment! I always get my equipment on time and returns are a snap!" - Customer on May 16, 2015
Garritan Abbey Road Piano Software
This Garritan virtual instrument library captures the awesome Yamaha CFX Concert Grand Piano in Abbey Road Studios' legendary Studio One. Award-winning engineers produced three discrete microphone perspectives to create a virtual piano of breathtaking power and beauty. >More
The Garritan Jazz & Big Band 3 is a high-quality Jazz and Big Band instrument collection. More than 75 instruments, including a comprehensive saxophone collection, brass instruments with various mutes, woodwinds, Steinway Piano, guitars, organs, acoustic and electric basses, an electric piano, drum kits, and other instruments. >More
Garritan Personal Orchestra 4 Library
The Garritan Personal Orchestra 4 is a complete orchestra at your fingertips. Garritan Personal Orchestra is state-of-the-art software that reproduces sounds of the musical instruments in a symphony orchestra directly from your computer. >More
Garritan Concert and Marching Bands 2
The Garritan Concert & Marching Band 2 provides high-quality band instruments at your fingertips. Garritan Concert & Marching Band is an extensive library of concert and marching band sounds. >More
The Garritan Classic Pipe Organs offers you a choice of six different historic pipe organs that span over four hundred years. Baroque, Classical, Renaissance, Romantic, and two Modern pipe organs are represented in this collection. >More
Garritan Harps features a variety of harps including Salvi Pedal, Venus Concert Grand and Lyon & Healy. >More
The Garritan World Instruments Collection -- a complete world instruments collection. The World Instruments library contains hundreds of high-quality instruments from all corners of the globe. >More
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subset: commoncrawl


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Winter Jackets - Women'sSave on Women's Winter Jackets at Proboardshop.com! Great selection of street gear at unbelievably low prices. Proboardshop has been selling Winter Jackets and outdoor gear for over 30 years and we're proud of it.
Please refine here
- Price: => 350.00
Burton AK 2L Flare Down Gore-Tex Snowboard Jacket - Women'sReg: $599.95 On Sale: $449.95
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Size: X-LargeReg: $700.00 On Sale: $419.95
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Nobis Audrina Jacket - Women's
Size: Small, LargeReg: $623.95 On Sale: $467.95
Nobis Ursula Jacket - Women's
Size: Medium, LargeReg: $1299.95 On Sale: $974.95


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City Taxes
Receive email or text notification for updates related to city taxes.
Filelocal is currently being built to be your one-stop shop for Bellevue, Everett, Seattle and Tacoma general licensing and B&O tax filing needs. Filelocal offers insight and updates on the Partner Cities online registration and filing portal.
Tax Education Tip: If you rent out your home in Bellevue as a bed and breakfast or for short term home rentals for periods under thirty days you have a registration and reporting requirement with the City of Bellevue. In addition you might also have a reporting and registration requirement with the Washington State Department of Revenue (DOR). Please click on this Short-term Home Rentals link for State DOR reporting information.
Bellevue collects general taxes from businesses, primarily the business and occupation (B & O) tax. In addition, the city collects a number of special taxes on specific types of business activity, including the utility tax, gambling tax and admission tax.
Businesses can register with the city and state at the same time with a master license. The state processes business license applications for the city. Apply for a business license online with the State Business Licensing Service . The city offers additional information about business registration at Licenses and Permits.
King County, Washington State and other jurisdictions collect other taxes, including property taxes, sales taxes, lodging (hotel and motel stays), leasehold excise and real estate excise.
Businesses will receive a single property tax bill from King County, which collects the property tax for all governmental entities in the county. Property in Bellevue is taxed by a combination of some (but not all) of the following jurisdictions: City of Bellevue, Bellevue School District, Issaquah School District, King County, Port of Seattle, Regional Emergency Medical Services and State School Fund.
Personal property taxes administered by King County include business personal property assets used in conducting a business. The King County Department of Assessments offers additional information.
Send Tax Payments to:
City of Bellevue
P.O. Box 34372
Seattle, WA 98124-1372
Bellevue Tax Division
450 110th Ave. NE
P.O. Box 90012
Bellevue, WA 98009
Phone: 425-452-6851
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com


text:
Two Pittsburgh Pirates free agent rumors, after a few weeks of little to no news:
-Dejan Kovacevic reports that the Pirates have had discussions with Paul Maholm, although a return seems unlikely. Kovacevic mentions that the Pirates are looking to upgrade the rotation, but that those additions will probably come from non-roster invitees, rather than a high profile addition. We heard earlier that the Pirates agreed to sign Jo-Jo Reyes to a minor league deal.
-Phil Mackey of ESPN 1500 has an article on the Minnesota Twins' bullpen search. He mentions that one of the targets, Dan Wheeler, has drawn interest from the Pirates. However, he adds that one baseball person indicated that Neal Huntington isn't ready to offer a guaranteed contract. Wheeler turned 34 in December, and has a 3.65 ERA in 155.1 innings over the last three years, with a 7.5 K/9, a 1.9 BB/9, and a 1.4 HR/9 ratio.
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2 Pack Skinny Belt Set
Item# AS-000073_54-0016-2
$16.50 $12.37
Get two great belts for one great price. Choose from two different sets. The black set features a black faux leather belt with a rhinestone buckle and a silver belt with a polished silver buckle. The leopard set features a faux leopard belt with a rhinestone buckle and a gold belt with a polished gold buckle.
- Imported
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Diva Dash! Enjoy 25% Off *xoxo Ashley*Details
Take 25% Off Your Full Priced Purchase. Cannot be combined with any other promotions.


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MaidPro Service Provider job in Cleveland, TN
|Job Title
|Service Provider
|Job Type
|Full-time, Part-time
|Not Specified
|Pay Type
|up to $14.00 an hour
|170 North Ocoee Street Suite 303
Cleveland, TN 37311
See all MaidPro jobs
Service Provider
We have a full-time/part-time opening for a Service Provider.
Must be able to work various shifts per week.
- Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Be authorized to work in the United States.
Wage: up to $14.00 an hour
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- Minimum Age
- 21+ years old
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Come join the MaidPro family! Take care of our customers and we'll take care of you!
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What information do I need to sign in to Online Banking?
You'll need your Online Banking login ID and password to sign in to Online Banking from www.firstmerchants.com. Both your Login ID and password are case-sensitive, so be sure to use capital letters if necessary. Note that Mobile Banking login requires a Mobile ID and PIN, which is not the same as your Online Banking information.


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The new spiritual leader of the Sephardic Orthodox Shas movement said women should not pursue academic studies.
Rabbi Shalom Cohen said in an official letter published Monday on the haredi Orthodox website Kikar HaShabbat that women's participation in academic pursuits, including in haredi colleges, is a violation of Jewish law. It was Cohen's first official ruling since assuming his position.
Cohen, the president of the Shas Council of Torah Sages, in April succeeded Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, who died in October. Yosef's daughter, Adina Bar-Shalom, in 2001 founded the Haredi College of Jerusalem, an institution supported by her late father.
"Our rabbis, the sages of Israel, unconditionally opposed academic study and even in the Haredi colleges, since a significant number of professors are university graduates and do not uphold the pure religious worldview on which the girls were raised," Cohen wrote.
"In addition, the material in the colleges is based on research and scientific methods that contravene the Torah. Therefore, students should not even consider going to learn academic studies in any framework, since this is not the way of the Torah."
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Gifts for car lovers (and their pets)
Column | Dec 14, 2011 | 6:34 AM
Gifts for car lovers (and their pets)
Column | Dec 14, 2011 | 6:34 AM
Nissan Leaf App Added for Android, BlackBerry devices
Story | Aug 31, 2011 | 9:42 AM
The Nissan Leaf launched with an iPhone mobile application that allowed users to check the battery's charge level, start and stop charging, and heat or cool the cabin, among other features. Now, Nissan says those features are now available for...
Pioneer Stereo to Battle High-Tech Options from Automakers
Column | Oct 12, 2011 | 1:21 PM
Do you want the latest in in-car entertainment, but don't want to fork out the dough at the dealership for a higher-level trim? Pioneer is hoping your answer is yes. Like Ford's Sync, Toyota's Entune, Chrysler's Uconnect and...
Motoring News
Column | May 17, 2012 | 7:15 AM
Here are some notes from the past week in the automotive world, courtesy of auto expert Jim MacPherson: -Tesla, a maker of electrically powered cars, has vowed to start repaying federal loans by the end of the year. Regulatory filings at the end of March...


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Reds' Votto Has A Quad Injury, Not Knee Injury
By Sports Talk Florida
News Desk
Follow @ SportsTalkFLA
News Desk
Follow @ SportsTalkFLA
According to reports, Joey Votto has a a quadriceps injury. This is good news as there was some fear that he had a knee injury. Votto has had a slow start this season with only six home runs in 39 games.
For more information on this story visit: Hardball Talk, Aaron Gleeman
Tags: Cincinnati Reds


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WoW Shaman Glyphs
In patch 3.0, the precursor to Wrath of the Lich King, Major and Minor glyphs were introduced to World of Warcraft via the Inscription profession. What exactly is a glyph? It's an enhancement to existing spells and abilities. Major glyphs affect overall performance in combat settings, usually increasing DPS or HPS output in various ways. Minor glyphs are more of a convenience, removing the reagent cost of an ability, or one of many other effects. Ultimately each character is able to use up to 3 major and 3 minor glyphs.
|Enhancement Glyphs
|Glyph of Storm Strike
Increases the Nature damage bonus from Stormstrike by 8%. This glyph has great synergy with the Static Shock talent, Earth Shock and Lightning Bolt increasing overall DPS.
|Glyph of Windfury Weapon
Increases the chance per swing for Windfury Weapon to trigger by 2%. Windfury now has a 22% base chance to proc on a swing. It's a minimal DPS upgrade but it's still in the top 3 glyphs of choice.
|Glyph of Feral Spirit
|Spirit Wolves gain an additional 30% of the Shaman's attack power. It is currently the third choice for most Enhancement Shamans. EnhSim is showing this to be better than any other option.
|Glyph of Lightning Shield
|Increases the damage of Lightning Shield by 20%. There's some testing going on at the EJ forums that's pretty interesting. Tests are being performed to determine how Windfury compares to Lightning Shield in a setting where Lightning Shield is proccing from environmental damage. No conclusions have been reached as of this time but it's definitely something to follow.
|Elemental Glyphs
|Glyph of Lightning Bolt
|Increases the damage dealt by Lightning Bolt by 4%. It's fairly obvious why this is a recommended glyph as Lightning Bolt is the most used spell in an Elemental Rotation.
|Glyph of Flame Shock
|Increases the duration of your Flame Shock ability by 6 seconds and it is not consumed by casting Lava Burst. Again pretty much a no brainer. This glyph makes Flame Shock last 18 seconds. Without the glyph one would need to refresh Flame Shock every 8-10 seconds (after a Lava Burst) eating up global cool downs you could be using for Lightning Bolt or Chain Lightning.
|Glyph of Totem of Wrath
|When you cast Totem of Wrath, you gain 30% of the totem's bonus spell power for 5 minutes. Many shamans opt to go with Glyph of Lava over Totem of Wrath but testing shows that the Shaman would need 4000 spell power for Glyph of Lava to surpass the gains from Totem of Wrath. The reason? The bonus from Totem of Wrath affects all spells and not just Lava Burst.
|Restoration Glyphs
|Glyph of Chain Heal
|Chain heals will bounce to an additional target. Personally I'm not a fan of this glyph primarily because I hate chain heal spam. I prefer to heal using primarily Riptide and Lesser Healing Wave. Even so, this is a solid choice for any Shaman raid healing with Chain heal.
|Glyph of Lesser Healing Wave
|Lesser Healing wave heals for 20% more if your target is affected by Earth Shield. This is an amazing glyph for the Shaman that prefers to heal the Main Tank. Lesser Healing Wave is the most efficient spell to trigger Ancestral Healing (25% armor buff on the target). It's also good for Ancestral Awakening.
|Glyph of Riptide
|Increases the duration of Riptide by 6 seconds, making it a 21 second heal over time. It can be useful in many situations if you opt to play with Lesser Healing Wave. Riptide is used to Tidal Waves decreasing the cast time of the next 2 Lesser Healing Waves. It's good practice to use both procs in the 6 seconds it takes to cast another Riptide.
|Glyph of Earth Shield
|The amount healed by Earth Shield is increased by 20%. As any type of healer, Earth Shield will always be on a tank, making this glyph a must.
|Minor Glyphs
|Glyph of Renewed Life
|Removes the reagent requirement from Reincarnation. It's a handy glyph to have. You'll never have to buy ankhs again! I can't begin to count the number of times I couldn't pop in TBC because I ran out of ankhs.
|Glyph of Water Shield
|A must have for Restoration Shamans. This glyph increases the number of Water Shield charges from 3 to 4 resulting in more global cool downs (more time spent healing).
|Glyph of Thunderstorm
|Removes the knockback from your Thunderstorm ability and increases the amount of mana returned by 2%. Raiding guilds will likely require this glyph for any raiding Elemental Shaman. Mobs flying all over the zone gets annoying really fast.
The rest are just minor conveniences and have no impact on group or raid content so I won't cover them here. Let us know which glyphs you prefer and why on the forums!


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Last Night's Leftovers: Soup Dumplings Edition
Three places to try soup dumplings [Zagat]
Update on Tadich Grill, coming to 1001 Pennsylvania Ave. NW [Washingtonian]
Broncos, Seahawks fans battle for viewing space at same D.C. bar. [Post]
Former Liberty Tavern chef Liam LaCivita looking to open his own restaurant. [Eater]
Former Cafe Japone space gutted in Dupont. [PoPville]
Judging the restrooms at The Pig [DCist]
Five brunches to try this weekend [BYT]
Photo by Jessica Sidman


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Rick Roe's dream
Shy pianist takes spotlight for tribute to Thelonious Monk
Pianist Rick Roe, right, was still a teenager when he began to appreciate legendary jazz giant Thelonious Monk, below. "He played certain things and I went, 'Ow, it's so damn good! You just cracked my back!'" Roe remembers.Read more Read it in print


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2011/12 Aussie ITF circuit
View Single Post
Jan 31st, 2012, 05:50 AM
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Victoria
Posts: 679
Re: 2011/12 Aussie ITF circuit
Rogowska won 6-1 6-4. she cruised through the first set but went down 3-0 in the second and started getting a bit annoyed, the wind was pretty bad at times. i was near her coach and he thought the other girl was playing pretty well. Olivia got it right back to 3-3 and then just played steady to finish it off.
Storm lost 6-1 7-6 (3), but she did pretty well really. she was down 6-1 and 5-1 by making a lot of errors, Putintseva just looked steady but i didn't see the first set. anyway i was watching Jones and Millman on the court near Storm, and i saw that some of their rallies were going as long as two points of Jones-Millman so i went to watch Storm when she was 4-1 down. there were lots of Sanders forehand to Putintseva backhand rallies, and Storm was starting to get on top of most of them. Putintseva was going off her face by 5-2 and even got a racket abuse warning at about 5-3. she was also pretty unhappy when she broke a string on break point for Storm to get it back on serve at 5-4. Storm held easily for 5-5 and they both held for 6-6, no match points or set points. Putintseva upped the ante in the tie-break and Storm started making errors again. it was 3-3 but Putintseva won four points in a row after they changed.
Bobusic d Hadzic 7-5 1-6 6-1. only saw the third set but it looked like it was just Bojana being more solid than Azra from the back of the court. Boj had a good consistent deep ball as well as the occasional shot a few metres out. Azra hit some good shots when she was set up for them but made too many errors. good effort from Azra to get a set though.
Starr d whoever she played, she won the first, lost the second and won the third 6-3. i didn't know who she was at first and i thought she looked like Larcher de Brito because of her hair and her backhand looked similar from where i was watching. i was half watching this as well as Lu and Frost because the courts were next to each other. Starr actually looked pretty solid, much better than the 800-something player who lost in 25k quallies last year, and they had some good rallies too. the chick she played had one of those grunts that sounds like she's saying "air" but really long and dragged out and it just went on forever! Starr was relying on her opponent's errors mostly, but was good at finishing off a short ball and even coming into the net. the match went for a long time and Starr looked quite relieved it was over at the end.
i saw Sally playing too from a distance but i don't know whether she won or lost, but she did have a skit near the end where she missed a shot near the net, then yelled out "Sallyyyyyyy!!!", bent down on her knees and smacked her racket on the ground. also Khromacheva was happy to let everyone in Burnie know when she won a point by screaming out "allez!!! c'mon!!!!" so many times i lost count!
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July 02, 2013 - July 04, 20139:00 pm
Come celebrate Fourth of July at Busch Gardens! Fireworks will be displayed July 2nd- July 4 beginning at 9:00P.M
Busch Gardens
1 Busch Gardens Blvd.
Williamsburg Virginia


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I took a look at the Perlybook integration for Algorithm::Kmeans on my Nook. At my age, I like to read at the middle size font, which leaves 50 chars on Helvetica and 35 chars fixed-width. The regular text is very easy on the eye, but the code is rendered for a wider screen and the line wrapping is ugly.
my $clusterer = Algorithm::KMeans->new( datafile => $datafile,
mask => $mask,
cluster_seeding => 'random',
terminal_output => 1,
write_clusters_to_files => 1,
You can see that this would be proper formatting on a regular screen.
It's got great potential. I see a day when some bright young spark, grabs the whole of CPAN, runs
perltidy over it to re-format the code and connects all the links so it jumps from POD to module tutorial and the whole thing fits in my pocket.
$libgd_package = $::operatingsystem ? { 'Ubunutu' => 'libgd2-xpm-dev', 'Debian' => 'libgd2-xpm-dev', 'FreeBSD' => 'graphics/gd', 'Mandriva' => 'libgd-devel', 'openSUSE' => 'gd-devel', 'CentsOS' => 'gd-devel', default => 'libgd', }
package { [ "$libgd_package" ]:
ensure => latest,
Underscoring the caveats above, dpkg -S was useless for this purpose, advising me only that no installed package provided the needed package. And apt-file requires the installation of an additional package. Guess I ought to add that to my utilities manifest, at least for my development machine.]]>
Otherwise, this puppet syntax seems to work fine.]]>
I can't offer you much help in what to do specifically to set up a successful indian community, but would strongly recommend talking to people and figuring out why they just never stick around.]]>
First, you must develop a critical mass. This will be difficult if you don't offer much of an incentive to join the group. The three incentives I can think of are (1) mutual support and help, (2) social connection, and (3) free advertising for freelancers. You might be able to think of others. How would your system incentivize folks to join?
The best idea I can think of is a email list. If you provide a mail list or discussion forum, you will have to fend off free-riders. These are folks who join the group simply to ask the community members to solve their problem for them. This happens (or used to happen) with inordinate regularity on the LinkedIn Perl group. I strongly recommend that you establish strict community standards about what is acceptable, and what will happen if you don't follow them.
FWIW, I like the idea of using an email list for this purpose. On IRC, if you stop participating, you stop hearing from the group. With email, messages keep coming unless you explicitly opt-out. This should help retain good folks even when they step away for a little bit.]]>
If so which wiki software should i use if not create one?
I will be back with the mailing email but what wiki should i use.
So Perl v Python arguments centered around syntax are somewhat irrelevant. You will find godawful things in both of them.
For me, the only things that matter are:
(i) lots of powerful libraries (ii) good documentation (iii) helpful communities (iv) speed [for some things]
My main toolkit is made up of Perl, Python, Go, and C.
Perl nails (i), (ii), and (iii). It is the super-glue that allows me to write small programs that do a lot simply because just about everythig has already been written on CPAN
Python is the ants-pants for (i) which has anything to do with math/science/ml
Go is the only choice for (iv) for anything to do with concurrency
C is the closest human-readable thing to the metal, and I use it for (iv) where speed and size is paramount.]]>


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Results 1 to 13 of 13
Thread: Custom Painter Brushes
March 10th, 2009 #1
Custom Painter Brushes
Hello, I had seen a tut online somewhere (quite awhile ago) about how to best create Painter brushes (similar to the look of custom-created brushes in Photoshop). Is anyone familiar with how to best do this in Painter?
In other words, I'm looking for a detailed tut on how to create custom Painter brushes that will act in similar fashion as the brush creation engine within Photoshop. (I realize I basically repeated myself. Sorry.)
Can anyone point me in the correct direction?
I appreciate the help.
Hide this ad by registering as a memberMarch 10th, 2009 #2
But Zhu Zhu made a nice round brush, http://zhuzhu.deviantart.com/art/My-...ushes-55223889
March 10th, 2009 #3
Thanks for the reply. I probably didn't clarify as much as I should've. I'm referring more to how to paint my own custom shapes then turn them into brushes (like grunge-style, texture styles, or from image sections, etc.). Hopefully that helps clarify what I'm looking for. So far, I've not been able to find the info online again.
March 10th, 2009 #4
March 10th, 2009 #5
This may be what I was looking for...or very similar at least. I appreciate your help!!
March 10th, 2009 #6
March 10th, 2009 #7
one thing that i do is create vector strokes via illustrator, rasterize them, and then turn them into patterns to be used with the pattern chalk but in such a way it feels more like a pen brush or something.
"I was born; six gun in my hand; behind the gun; I make my final stand"~Bad Company
March 11th, 2009 #8
Very cool. Thanks for sharing!
April 10th, 2009 #9
I had found this.
I could do something similar with patterns but I couldn't delete the background. But seeing that star brushes, i think it must be a way..
April 10th, 2009 #10
Okay...thanks for the link. The brushes look interesting though I'm more interested in how they're created rather than the brushes themselves. Dissecting this files may be helpful. Thank you.
April 12th, 2009 #11
I know this might sould like a jerk question, but have you tried Help within the program yet? That's how I first learned to make dab oriented brushes (brush shapes I created). BTW that CGSociety link Arshes Nei posted should more than get you started. Take care friend
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Wayne Parker
April 12th, 2009 #12Registered User
- Join Date
- Oct 2005
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- Lisbon, I think...
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April 12th, 2009 #13
Artmessiah, yes...already read the Help-info (and much, much more). I just like to read as much about something as I can, from many locations, because you don't learn from just one source. No offense taken, however. Thanks.


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Vice President Joe Biden offered returning federal workers handshakes, hugs, and kisses -- and muffins, too -- this morning at the EPA headquarters in Washington, D.C.
Via the pool report:
As pool awaited the VP, EPA administrator Gina McCarthy hopped – literally, hopped – as she entered the building and then headed to greet him at a back entrance far from pooler's view.
Pool first spotted VP at about 9:17 am, rounding the corner from the back entrance, finding a cluster of workers who caught wind of his visit. He carried a few containers of "Coffee Cake Bites" – apparently $5 each per the sticker, and "Baked from scratch" with no trans fats.
"I brought some muffins!" the VP said as he arrived at the security desk, placing the muffins down. And, seeing a sign on the desk that read that "All visitors must be escorted at all times," VP announced: "I'd like to be escorted!"
TV pooler quickly asked the VP, "Are you happy with how the deal played out?" He answered: "I'm happy it's ended. It was unnecessary to begin with. I'm happy it's ended."
He then immediately began shaking hands with employees, lined up out the entrance. The usual Biden stuff – some handshakes, some hugs, some kisses. Told some he was sorry they had to miss work and "had to go through all that." There were occasional bursts of applause as more people arrived and found the VP there.
Most of the VP's greetings were simple and straightforward. One mentioned it was her birthday, earning her a special birthday welcome. Another arrived wheeling a small suitcase. "Is that all the work that piled up?" VP asked the woman. "Yes it is. I was very tempted to do it," the woman said.
During a lapse in the line VP turned to the pool and made the remarks sent earlier. And then returned to glad-handing.
At first, the muffins VP brought remained on the counter behind him but eventually Administrator McCarthy held them to offer them to staff. "Would you like a muffin? The vice president brought some muffins," McCarthy said. VP, seeing how long the line of employees, worried: "I didn't bring enough muffins!"
But enough about the muffins, folks.
Around this point, something of a photo line developed as everyone with an iPhone asked to take a picture with him. VP enlisted his able body man to handle photo duty.
McCarthy was also warmly greeted by a number of employees. "Settle in, get busy," she said at one point.
At 9:33 am the pool was escorted out of the building back to our van, where we returned to the White House separate from the VP motorcade. We ended up being held at the southeast entrance by said motorcade.
While waiting for VP, pool spoke with Barbara Bruce, an EPA employee for 38 years who was waiting at the entrance to meet the VP. She had also experienced the last shutdowns of the mid-'90s.
"I think the last shutout [sic] I wasn't that concerned about being off for the two weeks. But this one I was a little worried because there was so much friction going on between the two parties. But I am happy that they resolved their problems and I am truly glad to be back."
She noted she has only a few more years to work before she's eligible to retire.
"I think the morale is much better today. I've seen a lot of my coworkers and everybody's upbeat and everybody's glad to be back."
She says the shutdown was not a hardship for her but she had friends and family for whom it was. "My husband is retired so I had a little cushion to fall back on," she said. "But I was concerned about my other fellow coworkers. I think after this duration I'm hoping and praying that they will come to a resolution beyond January the 15th, that we wouldn't have to go through this again.
She said she didn't learn that she was coming back to work until she woke up this morning. "I wasn't sure we were supposed to report back today or tomorrow. And so I immediately went on to the OPM website and they said, 'All federal workers report back today.' So I got dressed real fast and I ran and got to work."
Pooler also spoke briefly with McCarthy and asked her about the impact of the shutdown on her agency.
"We had about 94% of our staff out so that's a pretty big hardship for us," she said. "I think the most important thing for the staff was they actually want to work. I gave a call to a few folks while they were out and they were just dying to get back to the job. So their basic hardship they know they do such important work and they just wanted to get to it. That's why today's a real celebration for us."


text:
Lost Income, Lost Friends — and Loss of Self-Respect
A new Pew Research Center survey finds the long-term unemployed are more likely than the short-term unemployed not only to have lost income, but also to have lost contact with close friends, suffered strains in family relations and lost some self-respect and confidence in their long-term career prospects.
New Economics of Marriage: The Rise of Wives
A larger share of women today, compared with their 1970 counterparts, have more education and income than their spouses. As a result, in recent decades the economic gains associated with marriage have been greater for men than for women.
Between Two Worlds: How Young Latinos Come of Age in America
Never before in this country's history has a minority ethnic group made up so large a share of the youngest Americans.
The Harried Life of the Working Mother
A solid majority of Americans (75%) reject the idea that women should return to their traditional roles in society, but many women remain conflicted about the competing roles they play at work and at home.
Networked Families
Parents and spouses are using the internet and cell phones to create a "new connectedness" that builds on remote connections and shared internet experiences.
Quiz: Couples Quiz
Who calls the shots in your household? Nowadays in many American families, it's the woman who wears the pantsuit. Take our Couples Quiz to find out where you fit, then compare your results with the findings of a national survey.
Women Call the Shots at Home; Public Mixed on Gender Roles in Jobs
They say it's a man's world, but in the typical American family, it's the woman who wears the pantsuit. Still, Americans retain strong traditional gender preferences with respect to some job roles. To find out where you fit, take our Couples Quiz, then read the report on the findings of the national survey.
Revisiting the Mommy Wars After Palin: Politics, Gender and Parenthood
A new Pew survey, like others before it, found Republicans far more troubled than Democrats by the long term trend toward mothers of young children working outside the home. But these surveys were conducted before Sarah Palin entered the political scene. The especially enthusiatic initial reponse to her vice presidential candidacy contrasts sharply with these findings.
English Usage among Hispanics in the United States
A new analysis of six Pew Hispanic Center surveys finds a dramatic increase in English-language ability from one generation of Hispanics to the next.
Parents, Teens and Technology
Family members tend to use the same kinds of gadgets, but teenagers find them more useful.


text:
Happy Pynchon in Public Day!
Story | May 8, 2014 | 6:33 AM
Happy Pynchon in Public Day!
Story | May 8, 2014 | 6:33 AM
Super sad book trailers
Story | Jul 6, 2012 | 8:55 AM
Secret codes, the Trystero: A mysterious Thomas Pynchon hunt
Story | Jun 20, 2012
Stickers marked with the Trystero symbol from Thomas Pynchon's "The Crying of Lot 49" and a coded URL are hidden nationwide. But what do they mean?
Thomas Pynchon's novels will finally be released as e-books
Story | Jun 12, 2012
Thomas Pynchon's works will finally enter the e-book universe Wednesday. Will you have to rely on the Trystero for delivery?


text:
The Disney Films
Disney Editions, Sep 14, 1995 - Performing Arts - 400 pages
As Entertainment Tonight's resident expert and editor of the most authoritative Movie and Video Guide, Leonard Maltin is the favorite critic of anyone who loves movies. Now, he brings up to date one of his classic books. This is the only single-volume work that illuminates every feature film the studio has released. 150 illustrations.
From inside the book
16 pages matching Mickey's in this book
Page 376
Where's the rest of this book?
Results 1-3 of 16
What people are saying - Write a review
Review: The Disney FilmsUser Review - Goodreads
Excellent. A extremely thorough overview of the films that Walt Disney made himself. Although I hoped it would go into the films after he passed away a little more, this book is excellent! Read full review
Review: The Disney FilmsUser Review - Goodreads
A must have for those who have any interest in Disney films. Unfortunately, this book is long overdue for an update. The most recent edition was published in 2000. Read full review


text:
Daily Commentary – Thursday, July 2, 2015 – Recreational Marijuana is Now Allowed in the State of Oregon
- People 21 and older can now possess up to an ounce of pot when away from home and up to 8 ounces at home. They can also grow up to 4 plants.
Daily Commentary – Thursday, July 2, 2015 Download
Posted July 2, 2015 by Klaasend
Dana Pretzer, Drugs, Marijuana - Pot - Grass, Scared Monkeys Radio | no comments
Former President Jimmy Carter Says, Obama's Successes on World Stage "Have Been Minimal" … "US's Influence & Prestige & Respect in the World is probably Lower than it was 6 or 7 Years Ago." (VIDEO)
Former President Jimmy Carter ripped Barack Obama in a recent interview stating that Obama's successes on the world stage "have been minimal." WOW, that says a lot coming from this disaster of a president on the world stage. Not only did Carter say that Obama's accomplishments were minimal, he also stated that US influence and prestige in the world was lower than it was 6 or 7 years ago. But Carter doesn't want to be called a racist so he says' he doesn't blame Obama for his failures on the world stage. Of course Obama isn't to blame, why would anyone in the Democrat party hold him accountable for his failures? Um, then who is to blame, GWB? Or would it be Hillary Clinton's fault? After all, Carter proclaimed John Kerry was "one of the best secretaries of state we've ever had."
After proclaiming John Kerry "one of the best secretaries of state we've ever had," Carter dumped cold water on Obama's record abroad.
"On the world stage, I think [Obama's accomplishments] have been minimal," Carter said. "I think he has done some good things domestically, like health reform and so forth. But on the world stage, just to be objective about it, I can't think of many nations in the world where we have a better relationship now than when he took over."
"I would say the U.S.'s influence and prestige and respect in the world is probably lower than it was six or seven years ago," Carter said.
VIDEO – Washington Free Beacon
Posted July 1, 2015 by Scared Monkeys
Barack Obama, China, Epic Fail, Foreign Policy, Jimmy Carter, John Kerry, Misleader, World, You Tube - VIDEO | one comment
15 Year Old Katie Golden Missing Since 6/25/15 in Tampa, FL
15 year old Katie Golden has been missing since June 25, 2015 in Tampa, Florida. Katie was last seen at 11 PM on June 25 at her home. She was reported missing the following morning. The authorities believe she run away from home. Katie is described as 4'11″, 95-pounds with blond hair and blue eyes.
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: Case 1250584.
Katie Golden, age 15, was last seen at 11 p.m. on June 25 at her home in Tampa. Her parents reported her missing the next morning, according to Tampa Police Department Detective Christopher Smith, who says a case has been opened.
Smith said that it appears as though Golden intentionally left on her own sometime the evening of June 25. Smith did not know if she was with anyone when she left. "You never know with juveniles," Smith said. Golden's family has created a Facebook page with the hope it will help bring her home. They also passed out flyers on Monday evening.
Katie Golden is 4 ft, 11 inches tall, she weighs 90 lbs and has blue eyes and blonde hair.
Facebook: Help bring home Katie.
If you have information about her whereabouts call Tampa Police at (813) 231-6130 regarding case number 15-365946 or call private investigator Ed Busquet at 888-854-8936.
Posted July 1, 2015 by Scared Monkeys
Florida, Missing Persons, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, Run away | no comments
Daily Commentary – Wednesday, July 1, 2015 – University of Missouri Balks at Hillary Clinton's Celebrity Speaker Fee
- In 2014 when the University of Missouri was looking for a speaker to headline a gala for a Woman's Hall of Fame, they decided Hillary's $275k fees were a "bit" high. They settled for Chelsea who only charged $65k
Posted July 1, 2015 by Klaasend
Dana Pretzer, Hillary Clinton, Scared Monkeys Radio | one comment
29 Year Old Amanda Waller Missing Since 6/25/15 While Snorkeling Along Cas Abou Beach in Curacao
29 year old Amanda Waller has been missing since Thursday, June 25, 2015 while she was snorkeling with her husband and friends along Cas Abou Beach in the Caribbean island of Curacao. When the snorkeling group returned to shore about 20 minutes later, they realized that Waller was missing. Days of searching by the Coast Guard and volunteer divers have turned up no clues. There have been searches in the water and on the land as it is not known whether Amanda Waller from Katy, Texas made it to shore or not.
Amanda Waller
Anthony Waller told KHOU that his sister-in-law, Amanda Waller, 29, was snorkeling with her husband and friends along Cas Abou Beach around 3 p.m. Thursday, June 25, when she went missing.
Matt Myers, who was part of that snorkeling group, told KHOU that after snorkeling and taking pictures in the water, one of the women became tired and began swimming to shore.
He says a couple minutes later, Amanda Waller began swimming after her.
However, when the group returned to shore about 20 minutes later, they realized that Waller was missing.
After an unsuccessful search in the water, Myers says they called the Coast Guard, who arrived within 30 minutes to begin the search.
VIDEO below of snorkeling not related to this case but to provide context of what it looks like. The water appears to be calm and extremely clear. It is hard to imagine one could not find a person in such water.
A missing-person alert on the GoFundMe page urges people to call police or the U.S. Embassy if they see Waller.
Posted June 30, 2015 by Scared Monkeys
Caribbean, Missing Persons | no comments
Daily Commentary – Tuesday, June 30, 2015 – Feds Predicted a Surge in Illegal Immigrants Last Year
- Even though they claimed to have been caught off guard, they had already predicted an increase and expect there to be 127,000 this year many of which are juveniles
Posted June 30, 2015 by Klaasend
Amnesty, Anchor Babies, Dana Pretzer, Deportation, DREAM Act, ICE, Illegal Immigration, Open Borders - Border Security, Scared Monkeys Radio | one comment
NBC Fires Donald Trump for Un-PC Comments on Illegal Immigration But Keeps News Anchor Lying Brian Williams
Look what happens when you dare take a position that goes against the liberal MSM. NBC has cut ties with Donald Trump following the comments the Donald made over a week ago when he announced his candidacy for the president of the United States. NBC stated that the network will no longer air the annual Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants that were part of a joint venture with Trump. NBC stated in a press release that, "At NBC, respect and dignity for all people are cornerstones of our values. Due to the recent derogatory statements by Donald Trump regarding immigrants, NBCUniversal is ending its business relationship with Mr. Trump." Hmm, really? NBC has respect and dignity for all people, who knew? Unless you are a Conservative, member of the Tea Party, or anyone who dare disagree with the liberal agenda.
NBC is ending its business relationship with Donald Trump over his recent comments about Mexican immigrants.
"At NBC, respect and dignity for all people are cornerstones of our values," NBC said in a statement. "Due to the recent derogatory statements by Donald Trump regarding immigrants, NBCUniversal is ending its business relationship with Mr. Trump."
The network will no longer air the annual Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants that were part of a joint venture with Trump, the statement added. Its relationship with "Celebrity Apprentice" will continue, as Trump ceased his involvement with the reality show during his presidential bid.
The real estate mogul and 2016 presidential candidate has faced criticism for comments he made during his announcement speech earlier this month.
Donald Trump: NBC will stand behind 'lying' Brian Williams, but it won't stand behind me
What about NBC's values regarding telling the truth? I guess that is not high on their list or a cornerstone of their values. Isn't it quite telling about NBC that they would fire Donald Trump for speaking his opinion, yet NBC kept news anchor, "lying" Brian William after it had been documented that he had lied too many times to keep track while reporting the news. But that is OK and keeping in line with NBC values. Because that showed dignity and respect. This is the same network that also employees Al Sharpton, who has made fabricated comments as well.
Posted June 30, 2015 by Scared Monkeys
Brian Williams, Donald Trump, Donald Trump, Double Standard, Gutter Politics, Layoff - Fired, Liberal Intolerance, Liberals, Media, Media Bias, NBC, Politics, Presidential Contenders, Progressives | 4 comments
17 Year Old Mikayla Allen-Collins Missing Since 6/14/5 in Loveland, CO
17 year old Mikayla Allen-Collins has been missing since June 14, 2015 in Loveland, Colorado.
Mikayla Allen-Collins, who is 5-foot-3 with blue eyes and blonde hair, has been missing since June 14. Loveland Police believe that she might still be in the area, but released no further information.
According to the Help Find Mikayla Allen-Collins Now page on Facebook, the teenager was "known to be in Windsor with Jennifer Gray and James Hanson near 1st and Main." It is unclear who those people are and what relation they have to Allen-Collins.
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.
If you have any information, you're asked to call Loveland Police at 970-667-2151.
Posted June 29, 2015 by Scared Monkeys
Missing Persons | no comments
WALMART Refuses to Make Confederate Flag Cake, But was OK in Making ISIS Flag Cake (VIDEO)
So the Confederate flag is worse than the ISIS one, really? It appears that is the case when Chuck Netzhammer, a resident of Slidell, LA, was able to get a cake made at Walmart featuring an ISIS battle flag but was rejected when he asked for a Confederate flag cake. In the wake of the death of 9 black church goers in Charleston, SC at the hands of a racist, Walmart removed all traces of the Confederate battle flag from its stores and websites and stated they did so because they don't want to "offend" anyone. I guess they meant everyone but ISIS. How can you not know what the ISIS flag looks like, it has been in the news over the past several years more than the Confederate flag.
Wal-Mart is apologizing for a store in Slidell, La., which refused to bake a cake designed as the Confederate battle flag but accepted a request to bake a cake that looked like the ISIS battle flag.
Chuck Netzhammer, a local resident, presented his story in a YouTube video Friday, saying, "Alright, Wal-Mart, you've got some explaining to do. I went to go buy a cake from you all the other day with this image on it and y'all wouldn't do it. I went back yesterday and managed to get the ISIS battle flag [cake instead]."
I wonder if WALMART will make a Nazi flag cake?
UPDATE I: Walmart aplogizes for cluless cake maker who had no idea what he was making.
How can you be that uninformed that you don't know the battle flag of the biggest, most vicious terrorist killers on the planet? What cave does this baker live in? Who finds this amazing in a post-911 world that a Confederate flad from the 1860′s is looked upon as worse than a radical Islamist battle flag whose followers are beheading and burning alive their victims? But that is what you get when the MSM has an agenda.
The Daily caller was contacted by Randy Hargrove, a spokesman for Wal-Mart, who said in an email, "Our local store made a mistake. The cake in the video should not have been made and we apologize."
Hargrove later explained to TheDC, "We made the decision to stop selling Confederate flag related items promoting the flag's image. For that reason we did not make the cake. [Netzhammer] brought in the other image of ISIS and really, what happened, was our associate didn't recognize what that image was and what it meant or it wouldn't have been made."
Posted June 29, 2015 by Scared Monkeys
America - United States, Discrimination, ISIS, Islam/Muslims, Islamofascist, Radical Islam, WALMART, War on Terror, WTF, You Tube - VIDEO | one comment
Daily Commentary – Monday, June 29, 2015 – As of Yesterday Afternoon, the Manhunt for the 2 Escaped Prisoners is Over!
- David Sweat was shot and captured alive about 5 miles from the Canadian border. Fellow escapee Richard Matt was shot and killed on June 26th.
Posted June 29, 2015 by Klaasend
Dana Pretzer, Law Enforcement, Prison Escape, Scared Monkeys Radio | no comments


text:
Project Ideas for All Occasions From Paper to Fabric
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Stitch Package Ornament
By: Nuts about Needlepoint
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Make this wonderful needlepoint project from Nuts About Needlepoint, just in time for the holidays. You can string this pattern to turn it into an ornament that will look great hanging from your tree. Try creating the Stitch Package Ornament for a festive new craft.
- Wired Ribbon (Silk Lame)
- Diagonal Gobelin
- Jacquard in Very Velvet
- Jacquard in Shimmer Blend Ribbon Floss
- Combine a thread that can use two or more threads. Divide a square or rectangle into quadrants with bands of Diagonal Gobelin, and finish it up with a big bow using wired ribbon. What do you have? A charming ornament that looks like a present. Pick 13 or 14 mesh canvas for the most impact.
- The "ribbon" is white and stitched in Silk Lame. Just like a real package, the Diagonal Gobelin goes through in one direction, so it looks as if the ribbon overlaps.
- To finish it, find a wired ribbon about the width of the Diagonal Gobelin. It can be the same or a different color.
- Thread your needle and, from front to back on one corner of the crossing, bring it into the canvas, leaving a long tail.
- Go to the opposite corner of the crossing and bring it out of the canvas.
- Unthread the needle, even up the ends and tie it in a big bow.
- Cut the ribbon ends so they are even and decorative.
- Adjust the wire edges to make it big and pretty. This can also be done, using a curved needle once the ornament is finished.
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The town hall office hours in Baldwin Township are being extended, starting Monday this week, Sept. 4. The new hours are Monday-Wednesday 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., and Thursdays 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. The office is closed on Fridays.
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'Sarge, Leonides Square Off Again in Best Pal
Salute the Sarge and Leonides, separated by a nose in the Hollywood Juvenile Championship (gr. III) on July 4, clash once more in the $150,000 Best Pal Stakes (gr. II) for 2-year-olds at Del Mar Sunday.
Trainer Vladimir Cerin, whose Leonides came up on the short end of the Hollywood Park photo last month, thinks that maiden winner Slam Slew will also be formidable in the 6 1/2-furlong Best Pal.
"He looks like the horse to beat," Cerin said of the Richard Mandella trainee Slam Slew. "It looks like he's just a bit better than the rest of us. But you never know until you try."
Slam Slew broke his maiden in a sharp effort June 30 at Hollywood Park.
Cerin believes his colt, to be ridden once again by Joe Talamo, has room to move up on the Polytrack.
"He's trained quite well and he seems to be improving," Cerin said. "He was a little unlucky in the Hollywood race. He went behind horses at a critical time, but I think he's a little more mature now and will run a little straighter."
Leonides is named for the Spartan king who fought the invading Persian army of Xerxes at Thermopylae in one of history's greatest last stands.
He might need that kind of grit against Salute the Sarge and four other juvenile prospects. The Best Pal is Del Mar's top prep race for the $250,000 Del Mar Futurity (gr. I) Sept. 5, the final day of the 43-day meet.
Leonides angled wide on the course by Talamo for the stretch run, closed from sixth with a quarter-mile to run, and had the lead 100 yards from the finish line.
"I was very happy with our horse," Cerin said afterward. "We only had 18 days between races, and I couldn't really do enough with him to prepare him for the race. He was a little green out of the gate and during the race, but he almost got there. The winner ran super, and he just out-finished him."
Georgie Boy, who broke his maiden in style in the Graduation Stakes for California-breds July 25, will tackle open company in the Best Pal, as will third-place Graduation finisher Mix. Georgie Boy blew out three furlongs Wednesday in :35 3/5.
Sky Cape, a winner at first asking prior to finishing eighth in the Hollywood Juvenile, rounds out the field.--Jack Shinar
$150,000 Best Pal Stakes (gr. II, Race 8, 5:30 p.m.), 2-Year-Olds, 6 1/2 Furlongs (All Weather)
Copyright © 2015 The Blood-Horse, Inc. All Rights Reserved.


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Things to see and do - Peterhead
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Hotels Peterhead
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1 The Waterside
Fraserburgh Rd GB - Peterhead AB42 3BN
Prix from : 40 GBP
By the River Ugie, the Waterside Inn has a pool, a spa and a gym. Peterhead is just a few miles away and there is free parking. Waterside Inn has a leisure club, featuring a sauna, a steam room and a spa pool. With riverside views, Ogilvies Restaur..
2 The Seaview Hotel
Seaview Road, Boddam GB - Peterhead AB42 3NS
Prix from : 70 GBP
3 Buchan Braes Hotel
Buchan Braes, Boddam GB - Peterhead AB42 3AR
Prix from : 90 GBP
The Buchan Braes Hotel is located in Boddam on the outskirts of Peterhead and offers stylish, modern accommodation and free on-site parking. Dine on fresh local produce in the Rosette award winning Grill Room with its open kitchen. Each room has a ..
4 Kilmarnock Arms Hotel
Bridge Street GB - Port Erroll AB42 0HD
Prix from : 79 GBP
In the centre of the coastal village of Cruden Bay, Kilmarnock Arms Hotel offers en suite rooms with free Wi-Fi, and traditional Scottish cuisine. All of the rooms at Kilmarnock Arms have satellite TV, tea/coffee making facilities and hairdryers. T..


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Homeland Security grant spending questioned
Congress regularly complains about the lack of accountability of the grant programs but lawmakers are happy to have the federal dollars spent in their districts. And almost from the beginning the program has operated with political considerations.
In 2004, then-DHS Secretary Tom Ridge told a congressional panel asking about allotments to various cities that he was looking for a formula that get "218 votes in the House or 51 votes in the Senate, in order to get it done."
Coburn wasn't shy about shouldering some of the blame for the program's failings.
"Any blame for problems in the UASI program ... also falls on Congress, which is often more preoccupied with the amount of money sent to its cities than with how the money is spent, or whether it was ever needed in the first place," Coburn said.
Associated Press writer Eileen Sullivan contributed to this report.
The Associated Press