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Satisfied customer
Joined: Apr 2007
Location: Rooster Poot Tennessee
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wow! Awesome report \m/
Having a Nice Time
Joined: Jul 2005
Location: SE Wisconsin
Oddometer: 20,742
A Visit to a Civilian Conservation Corps Camp
Camp Gibbs is a CCC camp that was established in the mid 1930s. The CCC was a work relief program that gave single men a chance to work during the depression.
As I turned down this entrance road, I wondered how those young men felt when they first arrived here in the back of some trucks. There were no buildings then, only tents.
The Army administered these camps. Made perfect sense as they were trained and accustomed to managing the logistics and administration of facilities like this. They didn't screw around either. If someone showed up that didn't know how to behave properly, they sent him home quickly. They had too good of a program going to put up with any BS from someone that would spoil it. From reading the stories of participants, the other workers didn't want any knuckleheads around either. For most of the life of this program, there were more applicants than opportunities so it was easy to keep a positive and motivated force.
People that applied for this program were largely destitute, sometimes only having the worn out clothes on their backs. When they got into the CCC they got several sets of clothes and boots, medical/dental, training/education, recreation, and all the good food they could eat. The basic level paid $30 per month. The worker was allowed to keep $5 and $25 had to be alloted to their families (parents/siblings) to help them survive. It cost about $1,000 per man per year (including the wages paid to them) to sustain him in the CCC. The government got some excellent value for the relief they provided these people.
One thing the CCC did was plant trees over the logged and burned off UP. It would not be what it is today without these folks. They also did a variety of other conservation work that ranged from fighting fires to building airstrips for fire spotter planes, to helping to reintroduce moose, and a wide range other other work.
Camp Gibbs chow line before the buildings were in. They washed dishes in a creek using sand to remove grease. Obviously this improved as the camp developed.
Eventually a local contractor put in 19 inexpensive buildings. These included barracks, vehicle sheds, showers, storage, admin, and a bakery.
The Forest Service was going to tear these buildings down. Some local sportsman clubs managed to preserve them. I think they lease them and this is now a recreation area.
One club was there cooking out. In addition to giving me a tour, they offered to feed me as well. Nice folks. This is the inside of what was a barracks. They converted it to a clubhouse and archery range.
I've read several books about the CCC. The top book is an overview and the one beneath is specific to CCC operations in the UP. The more local books are great as they talk a lot about day to day life. Both are available at the Ottawa NF Visitor's Center in Watersmeet.
Once the CCC wrapped up here, the State of Michigan kept indigents from around the state here. These writings are from back in the day, but I don't know if they are CCC or welfare people. Both were glad to be here I'm sure.
By the way, by 1934 45% of the UP was on welfare. If the UP was a separate state, they would have been the worst in the nation. Welfare at that time paid a family $22.34 a month. One could see how another $25 a month from a member in the CCC could make a big difference.
Storage sheds for the vehicles and equipment used on jobs.
Did I mention that this side of the UP can be a little rocky with glacial till?
Cannonshot screwed with this post 05-20-2010 at 04:31 PM
Having a Nice Time
Joined: Jul 2005
Location: SE Wisconsin
Oddometer: 20,742
Someone wanted to know what the CCC book local to the UP was.
Beastly Adventurer
Joined: Jan 2004
Location: FLint Hills
Oddometer: 1,443
Great RR!! I love the historical component of it !
French vacation house for rent! Great riding area!!!
Having a Nice Time
Joined: Jul 2005
Location: SE Wisconsin
Oddometer: 20,742
National Forest and Border Wars
There are some excellent recreation areas in the Ottawa National Forest.
There are some archeological remnants of prehistoric indians at this recreation area (Lake Ottawa).
And that day was the opening of walleye fishing so there were a lot of folks on the water.
The forest roads are beautiful and nice to ride.
Seems like there is always something nice to see.
Mile Post Zero is where they started marking the Wisconsin-Michigan border.
This was part of the settlement for the Toledo War. "Toledo War you say? Never heard of it!" The Toledo War was a dispute between Ohio and Michigan. Michigan became a territory in 1805. Per the usual routine it sometimes included parts of Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, and Indiana. In the 1830s, Michigan was preparing for statehood. Obviously they had to shrink down to pull this off. In fact, one proposal did not even include the upper peninsula.
Due to some "misunderstandings" Michigan and Ohio got into a dispute over a strip of land near Toledo. Both laid claim to it. The conflict, called the "Toledo War", took place in 1835-1836.
To make a short story long, let me explain further. Both sides raised militias and enacted laws that penalized anyone in the disputed territory from submitting to the opposite state. (Trivia: The governor of Michigan at the time was 25 years old.) The militias lined up on opposite sides of the Maumee River but never really fought each other.
The Ohio congressional delegation was messing with Michigan by keeping them from getting statehood until this was resolved. Finally President Andy Jackson stepped in and worked a deal. Ohio got the disputed strip and Michigan got the UP. At the time, the UP was described as a "sterile region on the shores of Lake Superior destined by soil and climate to remain forever a wilderness". Michigan finally got statehood in 1837. They also got the last laugh when the UP hit it big with iron, copper, and timber.
A nice trail to the spot.
A scenic spot, but it still amazes me how they managed survey in these thick forests.
US 2 was once part of the King's International Highway. This was a Canadian transcontinental route from Vancouver to Halifax. Around 1960, Canadian road builders were finally able to blast a road around the north side of Lake Superior.
It was also called the Cloverland Trail for a while. Cloverland was kind of a scam to attract people to the UP after it was largely ruined by logging and fires. Promoters and developers made it out to be a dreamland. Journalists that were involved in this scam didn't let facts get in the way of what they were trying to promote. For a while they actually got people to come in from western states to raise sheep and the like. After a few years they checked out and went back west. There is more to the Cloverland chapter, but lets just say it failed and they moved on to Hiawathaland and went for tourism instead.
Even the major highways are scenic.
Cannonshot screwed with this post 05-20-2010 at 12:03 PM
Having a Nice Time
Joined: Jul 2005
Location: SE Wisconsin
Oddometer: 20,742
Ottawa National Forest
On the way to Watersmeet, I rolled past was used to be a government fish hatchery. Now it is a private trout pond.
This is very close to the Central ADV Rally site. Someone could ride up, catch a few trout that they pay for by the inch (this place provides tackle, etc), and bring back some ice packed cleaned trout for a nice meal.
On the way into town from the hatchery, a fisher (like this one) crossed the road in front of me. By the way, if fishers were the size of bears, no one would live in the north woods. They are pretty ferocious predators.
And let us not forget the Nimrods who made that ESPN top ten list along with the Flivvers.
Watersmeet might be a place to get a big honkin' sandwich I guess.
Watersmeet is also the place where the Ottawa National Forest Visitor Center is. Worth a stop. Nice exhibits and bookstore.
Just outside the door is a 1.5 ton 75% pure copper rock that was pulled out of the Victoria Mine (where we will visit later on). The drill marks are from the mine. We are getting close to copper country.
Overview of the forest.
There would be no National Forest here if it wasn't for the government getting hold of these ruined lands and with the help of the CCC. The CCC planted 485 million seedlings in the UP, stocked streams, and laid out roads.
Having a Nice Time
Joined: Jul 2005
Location: SE Wisconsin
Oddometer: 20,742
Some Wildlife
There are also big cats, mountain lions, in the UP. In both Wisconsin and the UP there have been stories about lions for a long time. Now the governments are finally acknowledging them. Kind of hard not to since the picture below was taken by the Wisconsin DNR. Just last weekend a turkey hunter in west central Wisconsin heard a lion attacking a heifer. He ran over there and scared the lion off with shots from his gun. The heifer was so badly mauled it had to be put down.
A peer reviewed scientific paper relying on DNA has verified a population of lions in the four UP counties with an "X" on the map. These are known populations. Those that know the habitat of the neighboring counties would agree that the cats are probably throughout the western UP.
Wolves in the UP number around 500 or so I think. There are about 750 in Wisconsin. These populations reintroduced themselves from other areas.
This guy got hit by a car in the Ottawa. I think it was last year that we ran into a biologist who was out checking her trapline. She was trying to snag some wolves to collar them. From time to time we come across some tracks on the trails.
There are between 13 and 17 thousand black bears in the UP. Last season I ran across eight of them (most were in the UP) while riding the DRZ around the boonies.
Beavers were part of the early trade when europeans first showed up.
Beaver housing.
Cannonshot screwed with this post 05-20-2010 at 01:30 PM
Having a Nice Time
Joined: Jul 2005
Location: SE Wisconsin
Oddometer: 20,742
Paulding Light, Bond Falls, Trout Creek
A stop at the famous Paulding Light.
This thing has been on TV, has a web site dedicated to it, and is the subject of some You Tube videos showing strange lights. In fact, some show offered a big reward to anyone that could "explain" it.
If you look to the north from this spot, you'll see strange lights start to appear at dusk.
Here are a couple of web photos.
I don't claim to be no genie-ass, but it would seem obvious by looking at the geometry and terrain that this has something to do with headlights on the highway to the north. Or maybe it is a ghost brakeman's light.
The UP probably has more than 100 notable waterfalls. One nice one that is easy to get to is Bond Falls. Worth the stop.
Mom had a hard time riding herd on her brood.
These may be duck-nuggets right now, but they'll be eatin' size by fall.
A UP power company keeps this impoundment to provide for hydro power. Kind of dry right now.
They were working on it.
This steam engine was manufactured by Allis-Chalmers in Milwaukee back in 1912. It was first used to power a flour mill in Minneapolis. It ran the sawmill here from 1921 to 1968.
This pond was used to wash the logs before sawing them.
The old rail line is now an ORV trail.
Back when this country was having hard times, the communists staged some rallies to win support. In September 1933, the communists came to Trout Creek to try to swing some hard pressed people to their point of view. They were elated to hear that a few hundred CCC workers (they invited) were marching into town because they thought they would be ripe for the picking. When the CCC boys got to town, the officers with them suggested to the commies that they might want to move on. Some female commie swore at the Captain and slapped his face. The CCC boys and local men broke out fire hoses and hosed down the commies. When a commie tried to get on a platform to speak, someone pulled him back down. The crowd then went after the commies' vehicles by rocking them as if to tip them over. The communists took their cause elsewhere. Hard to imagine all this happened in this sleepy little town. I guess the KKK came through with their cross burning antics back in the 20s. Who would have thought . . .
I should note that communism had a slightly different flavor around that time. I think the Mayor of Milwaukee was a communist for a while (and he did a lot of good).
Cannonshot screwed with this post 05-20-2010 at 07:38 PM
Joined: Sep 2006
Location: Santa Cruz, Ca
Oddometer: 4,516
Good stuff CS, I look forward to running through that area one day.
On the bike cockpit pic....is that a meat thermometer on the right?
Baja Blitz (The original)
Having a Nice Time
Joined: Jul 2005
Location: SE Wisconsin
Oddometer: 20,742
Larger dial is better - easier to read the ambient air temp when you are shivering.
Having a Nice Time
Joined: Jul 2005
Location: SE Wisconsin
Oddometer: 20,742
Agate Falls, Bergland, Lake Gogebic
To get to Agate Falls, you stop at a wayside and then walk under this engineering marvel.
I was really more interested in seeing the railroad bridge than I was the falls. It was a nice path to the overlook.
The rail bridge is part of an ORV trail now.
This river and falls were really a river of logs back in the logging days. In fact, they touched up the falls a bit with dynamite to remove any snags that would hold up the flow of timber.
An old post card of the falls.
This ranger station in Bergland was built by the CCC in 1937 and was the first Ottawa National Forest HQs. Much of the land for the forest became available when the depression hit. The government got hold of the logged off and burn scarred land for back taxes. Some soil was burned sterile preventing regrowth.
As I mentioned, the CCC brought much of it back.
A lot of company owned towns just evaporated when the principal industry went under. I think the Diamond Match folks had a lumber town called Matchwood that went away when the company pulled out. There was no reason to go on as the houses and stores were company owned. The town of Bergland was different. The founder was wise. He stayed away from the company owned concept. Others owned their stores and houses. When something went bad, people had a reason to stay and go on to something else. There is a lot more to the Bergland story, mostly having to do with the wisdom of the founder. The town is still going strong today while surrounding communities went under.
Nice scenery.
At first glance I thought this was an eagle's nest. After looking more closely I am inclined to think it belongs to an Osprey. It is along 12 mile long and shallow Lake Gogebic (go-GIBbick).
Time zones were the product of the railroads' need to keep time. They are kind of irregular in shape. In the UP perhaps more so. When you look at the mining/railroad operations maybe they make sense. Anyway, the county line that cuts the lake is also the Central-Eastern Time Zone demarcation. People around here like it because they can hop between two nearby taverns to celebrate New Year's twice.
The ride around Lake Gogebic is pretty nice. On the west shore you can hike to a high spot that resembles an alligator's eye from a distance. At this spot, some ancients quarried to make tools thousands of years ago. Since the blackflies were in bloom, I skipped the hike.
I think Gogebic is the fourth largest inland lake in Michigan and the largest in the UP. (No big deal I guess as the UP has 1700 miles of coastline - some of which is fantastic riding. ) The lake is a great walleye and perch fishery. It used to be a great bass lake before they introduced the walleye and perch. Years ago they used to run excursion boats on the lake.
Cannonshot screwed with this post 05-20-2010 at 07:52 PM
Having a Nice Time
Joined: Jul 2005
Location: SE Wisconsin
Oddometer: 20,742
Wakefiled, Bessemer, Ironwood
This was the Plymouth Open Pit Mine in Wakefield. It was 7,600 feet long, 900 feet wide, and 360 feet deep. The water depth is about 325 feet. It operated from 1913 until 1952. It was the only open pit mine on the Gogebic Range.
This whole thing is within the Wakefield City limits. I drove around the company homes and looked around.
The mine as it looked in 1940.
We are in the Gogebic Range for iron mining. In 1890, mines on the Marquette, Menominee, and Gogebic Ranges produced 80% of US iron ore. By 1900, the Minnesota Vermilion amd Mesabi Ranges surpassed Michigan. A century later, two remaining mines on the Marquette Range still produced about one quarter of US iron ore.
The stone for the Ramsey Keystone (railroad) Bridge was brought from Kaukauna (in WI at the top of Lake Winnebago) by the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad. The bridge was built in 1891 and rises 57 feet above the Black River.
This is the Gogebic County Courthouse. It was constructed in 1888 just four years after they started mining here. It is constructed of Lake Superior Red Sandstone.
This grand old building is still in use.
Whenever I was near old mining towns, I often found fruit trees. I may not have been able to pick out much else, but the fruit trees the miners planted carried on.
This is the Memorial Building where you come to do city business. It is a memorial to veterans of wars. It has marble walls, terrazo floors, and hand painted murals. Inside the lobby is a doughboy statue.
The cornerstone was laid in 1922. The American Legion and the Women's Club raised $500K in bonds to in 1922 to build it. This feat gained national attention because the population here was only 17,000. Even Chicago couldn't match that effort for their memorial.
They have 47 windows like this one that are worth a total of about $500K.
The Ironwood Theater was built in 1928 and at the time it was considered to be the finest showhouse in the northwest. It has solid bronze entrance doors and is of Italian Renaissance decor.
The Depot is now a museum. It was built in 1892 and at one time had a block long platform. Passenger travel continued as late as 1970. Freight traffic died off in 1981.
The view from atop a hill in Ironwood.
Looking toward a bay on Lake Superior.
A ski flying hill to the northeast that we will visit tomorrow.
I know you need to be comfortable riding sand if you off-road in Michigan, but this may be carrying things a bit too far.
The Pabst Mine was named because a beer baron had money in it. In 1926 it had a disaster. Some claim that an 11 inch rainfall contributed to the collapse of a 64 degree 10' X 18' incline shaft. Others say the problem was pre-existing.
Anyway, three electricians headed down the shaft and it caved in and killed them. It also trapped 43 miners down below for five days.
The miners rationed their lunches and after they ran through that they started to make tea from the birch bark of some mine timbers. After five days, rescuers busted them out. It is said that 5,000 people were at the mine opening when they came out. While trapped some of the miners sang songs, talked politics, and discussed religion. As they were rescued someone asked what they needed most. Someone answered "tobacco" and was immediately given a cigar.
The local inspector was relieved that the 43 came out alive because everyone had been on his ass during the time they were trapped.
End of day 1.
Cannonshot screwed with this post 05-20-2010 at 09:51 PM
Having a Nice Time
Joined: Jul 2005
Location: SE Wisconsin
Oddometer: 20,742
Catching up again on some comments and PMs.
Thanks again for the encouraging replies. It is nice to know that some are entertained by a report that combines entertaining riding with interesting history.
It is also good to hear from some folks that have ridden with me before on some dirt rides in the UP. Some of them have seen a few of these things on those rides.
This is a timely report for some because starting next week I'll be taking two consecutive groups on an 1100 mile dual sport loop around the UP on dirt bikes. We'll be visiting some of these spots (briefly) as we make our way. Hope some of this history enriches their trip a bit too.
Cannonshot screwed with this post 05-20-2010 at 10:03 PM
dreaming adventurer
Joined: Nov 2005
Location: right here on my thermarest
Oddometer: 103,034
These ride reports that you do with the history included are golden. Thanks!
Having a Nice Time
Joined: Jul 2005
Location: SE Wisconsin
Oddometer: 20,742
Day 2
A few comments about the Wisconsin portion of the Gogebic Range.
This is what the Gogebic Range looks like. Iron was discovered here in 1872. By 1886 there were 54 mines operating. They described the area as having inexhaustible stocks of high grade ore. Stocks rose 1200 percent. The rich speculation crashed in 1887.
In the mid-1600s, 400 Fox Indians raided Madeline Island (part of the Apostle Islands) and kidnapped four Ojibwa women. The Objiwa warriors silently pursued the Fox in the fog.
When they got to this cliff site, the Ojibwa engaged the Fox in a naval battle and wiped them out.
I wonder if this fisherman, who is enjoying an exceptionally calm day, knows what happened here.
Lake Superior water is clear and cold. The water temp is probably still in the 40s. More on the lake later.
This is Little Girl Point. Ojibwa lore says that a maiden got lost in the woods on her wedding day. She was later seen here with her lover. This point was a regular rest stop for people traveling from the Apostle Islands to the Porcupine Mountain area.
The power of water and ice keeps filling in this outlet at a boat launch site.
Today is one of those days where the horizon often becomes indistinguishable from the water.
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Xvideo is displayed incorerctly on FX5200 PCI
I am using a FX5200 PCI card in an old I810 based system to drive an RBG scart TV directly from the VGA connector (couldn't use the integrated I810 graphics card as it didn't support interlacing).
Running X and Myth TV generally behaves fine and even watching TV is fine provided the vertical scaling is set such that the whole of the video stream is displayed on the whole of the display. However if I use the 'letterbox' modes to remove the horizontal bars from the top and bottom (I'm using a 16:9 TV), then the displayed image is offset vertically (off the top of the screen) and the bottom of the image is dispalyed once and then doesn't change. The magnitude of both of these effects depends on scaling factor.
Looking at the Myth TV code, it appears to do scaling by drawing onto a larger display area (starting at -ve y coordinates). This works fine on one of my PCs (with a Radeon chipset), but not with this system.
I have modiied the MythTV code to produce more debugging and all the src and dest co-ordinates look fine. I have even modified it to apply the letterboxing by reducing the area of the video to copy rather than expanding the display area and the results are the same.
Any thoughts?
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Mold won't be the Grinch that steals Christmas in Cotuit.
If anyone knows the complexities involved in substance abuse and addiction, it's Ray Tomasi, president of Gosnold on Cape Cod, who this week offered insight into the issue to members of the Barnstable Human Services Committee.
Town Council President Fred Chirigotis and Vice President Jan Barton want to stay on in their roles for the next council session.
If Tom McDonald has it his way, this will be the last newspaper article people ever read about him.
There were no gourmet meals in Korea 1952. The standard fare for the machine gunners attached to Dog Company was a ration can that served as heating utensil, serving plate, and food all in one.
Kevin Houston's family, friends, coaches, commanding officer, chaplain and fellow Navy SEALS paid tribute to the 26-year-old Navy SEAL and 1994 Barnstable High School graduate, at a Nov. 12 service held at BHS.
STANDING TALL – Pete Gouger of South Yarmouth, 92, an Air Force navigator and POW in World War II
As the new president-elect of the American Dental Association, Dr. Robert A. Faiella of Cotuit hopes to increase access to dental care for people in need.
A new West Main Street gas station and paperwork details moving on a new Route 132 store has Stop & Shop busy with projects on different sides of Hyannis.
At the same time Dr. Richard Salluzzo was restoring Cape Cod Healthcare's financial wellbeing, he was prescribing Valium and Zoloft inappropriately for his own use and for family members. He also failed to keep appropriate medical records.
Barnstable was the first town on Cape Cod to ban smoking in restaurants, and it is poised to be the first to consider the ban of tobacco products at pharmacies and stores with pharmacies in them.
CORRECTEDA tide of reform hit Cape governments more than 20 years ago, sweeping tull-time boards of selectmen away in favor of part-time selectmen working with a strong appointed executive.
Just days before 11/11/11, voters turned over the town council's odometer.
It was always possible that it could come to this. With an unresolved court case, Barnstable Municipal Airport's $20 million terminal is effectively finished, but cannot be used.


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Still from Dil se Di Dua........Saubhagyavati Bhava
Still from Dil se Di Dua........Saubhagyavati Bhava
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Article: Polymorphisms in Tumor Necrosis Factor- a Increase Susceptibility to Intra- Abdominal Candida Infection in High-Risk Surgical ICU Patients*[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the influence of genetic polymorphisms on the susceptibility to Candida colonization and intra-abdominal candidiasis, a blood culture-negative life-threatening infection in high-risk surgical ICU patients. DESIGN: Prospective observational cohort study. SETTING: Surgical ICUs from two University hospitals of the Fungal Infection Network of Switzerland. PATIENTS: Eighty-nine patients at high risk for intra-abdominal candidiasis (68 with recurrent gastrointestinal perforation and 21 with acute necrotizing pancreatitis). MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Eighteen single-nucleotide polymorphisms in 16 genes previously associated with development of fungal infections were analyzed from patient's DNA by using an Illumina Veracode genotyping platform. Candida colonization was defined by recovery of Candida species from at least one nonsterile site by twice weekly monitoring of cultures from oropharynx, stools, urine, skin, and/or respiratory tract. A corrected colonization index greater than or equal to 0.4 defined "heavy" colonization. Intra-abdominal candidiasis was defined by the presence of clinical symptoms and signs of peritonitis or intra-abdominal abscess and isolation of Candida species either in pure or mixed culture from intraoperatively collected abdominal samples. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in three innate immune genes were associated with development of a Candida corrected colonization index greater than or equal to 0.4 (Toll-like receptor rs4986790, hazard ratio = 3.39; 95% CI, 1.45-7.93; p = 0.005) or occurrence of intra-abdominal candidiasis (tumor necrosis factor-α rs1800629, hazard ratio = 4.31; 95% CI, 1.85-10.1; p= 0.0007; β-defensin 1 rs1800972, hazard ratio = 3.21; 95% CI, 1.36-7.59; p = 0.008). CONCLUSION: We report a strong association between the promoter rs1800629 single-nucleotide polymorphism in tumor necrosis factor-α and an increased susceptibility to intra-abdominal candidiasis in a homogenous prospective cohort of high-risk surgical ICU patients. This finding highlights the relevance of the tumor necrosis factor-α functional polymorphism in immune response to fungal pathogens. Immunogenetic profiling in patients at clinical high risk followed by targeted antifungal interventions may improve the prevention or preemptive management of this life-threatening infection.Critical Care Medicine 04/2014; 42(4). DOI:10.1097/CCM.0000000000000208. · 6.15 Impact Factor
Article: Candida Species Distribution and Antifungal Susceptibility Testing According to EUCAST and New vs. Old CLSI Clinical Breakpoints: a Six-Year Prospective Candidemia Survey from the Fungal Infection Network of Switzerland (FUNGINOS).[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: We analyzed the species distribution of Candida blood isolates (CBI), prospectively collected between 2004 and 2009 within FUNGINOS, and compared their antifungal susceptibility according to clinical breakpoints defined by: EUCAST in 2013, CLSI in 2008 (old CLSI breakpoints) and 2012 (new CLSI breakpoints). CBI were tested for susceptiblity to fluconazole, voriconazole and caspofungin by microtitre broth dilution (Sensititre® YeastOneTM test panel). Of 1090 CBI, 675 (61.9%) were C. albicans, 191 (17.5%) C. glabrata, 64 (5.9%) C. tropicalis, 59 (5.4%) C. parapsilosis, 33 (3%) C. dubliniensis, 22 (2%) C. krusei and 46 (4.2%) rare Candida species. Independently of the breakpoints applied, C. albicans was almost uniformely (>98%) susceptible to all 3 antifungal agents. In contrast, the proportions of fluconazole- and voriconazole- susceptible C. tropicalis and F-susceptible C. parapsilosis were lower according to EUCAST/new CLSI breakpoints than to the old CLSI breakpoints. For caspofungin, non-susceptibility occurred mainly in C. krusei (63.3%) and C. glabrata (9.4%). Nine isolates (5 C. tropicalis, 3 C. albicans, 1 C. parapsilosis) were cross-resistant to azoles according to EUCAST breakpoints compared to 3 isolates (2 C. albicans, 1 C. tropicalis) according to new and 2 (2 C. albicans) to old CLSI breakpoints. Four species (C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis) represented >90% of all CBI. In vitro resistance to fluconazole, voriconazole and caspofungin was rare among C. albicans, but an increase of non-susceptibile isolates was observed among C. tropicalis/C. parapsilosis for the azoles and C. glabrata/C. krusei for caspofungin according to EUCAST and new CLSI breakpoints compared to old CLSI breakpoints. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.Clinical Microbiology and Infection 11/2013; DOI:10.1111/1469-0691.12440 · 5.20 Impact Factor
Article: Beta-Glucan Antigenemia Anticipates Diagnosis of Blood Culture-Negative Intra-Abdominal Candidiasis.[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Rationale: Life-threatening intra-abdominal candidiasis (IAC) occurs in 30-40% of high-risk surgical ICU patients. While early IAC diagnosis is crucial, blood cultures are negative and role of Candida score/colonization indexes is not established. Objectives: Aim of this prospective FUNGINOS cohort study was to assess accuracy of 1,3-beta-D-glucan antigenemia for diagnosis of IAC. Methods: Four-hundred-thirty-four consecutive adults with abdominal surgery or acute pancreatitis and ICU stay ≥72h were screened: 89 (20.5%) at high-risk for IAC were studied (68 recurrent GI tract perforation, 21 acute necrotizing pancreatitis). Diagnostic accuracy of serum beta-glucan (Fungitell®), Candida score and colonization indexes was compared. Measurements and Main Results: 58/89 (65%) patients were colonized by Candida, 29/89 (33%) presented IAC (27/29 with negative blood cultures). Nine-hundred-twenty-one sera were analyzed (9/patient): median beta-glucan was 253pg/ml (46-9557) in IAC vs. 99pg/ml (8-440) in colonization (p<0.01). Sensitivity/specificity of 2 consecutive BG ≥80pg/ml was 65%/78%. In recurrent GI tract perforation it was 75%/77% vs. 90%/38% (Candida score ≥3), 79%/34% (colonization index ≥0.5), and 54%/63% (corrected colonization index ≥0.4). Beta-glucan positivity anticipated IAC diagnosis (5 days) and antifungal therapy (6 days). Severe sepsis/septic shock and death occurred in 10/11 (91%) and 4/11 (36%) patients with beta-glucan ≥400pg/ml vs. 5/18 (28%, p=0.002) and 1/18 (6%, p=0.05) with beta-glucan <400pg/ml. Beta-glucan decreased in IAC responding to therapy and increased in non-response. Conclusions: 1,3-beta-D-glucan antigenemia is superior to Candida score and colonization indexes and anticipates diagnosis of blood culture-negative intra-abdominal candidiasis. This proof-of-concept in strictly selected high-risk surgical ICU patients deserves investigation of beta-glucan-driven pre-emptive therapy.American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine 06/2013; 188(9). DOI:10.1164/rccm.201211-2069OC · 11.99 Impact Factor
Article: Complete Genome Sequence of Listeria monocytogenes LL195, a Serotype 4b Strain from the 1983–1987 Listeriosis Epidemic in Switzerland[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: The complete genome sequence of Listeria monocytogenes LL195, a serotype 4b clinical strain isolated during the 1983-1987 listeriosis epidemic in Switzerland, is presented.Genome Announcements 01/2013; 1(1). DOI:10.1128/genomeA.00152-12
Article: ESCMID guideline for the diagnosis and management of Candida diseases 2012: patients with HIV infection or AIDS[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Clin Microbiol Infect 2012; 18 (Suppl. 7): 68–77 AbstractMucosal candidiasis is frequent in immunocompromised HIV-infected highly active antiretroviral (HAART) naive patients or those who have failed therapy. Mucosal candidiasis is a marker of progressive immune deficiency. Because of the frequently marked and prompt immune reconstitution induced by HAART, there is no recommendation for primary antifungal prophylaxis of mucosal candidiasis in the HIV setting in Europe, although it has been evidenced as effective in the pre-HAART era. Fluconazole remains the first line of therapy for both oropharyngeal candidiasis and oesophageal candidiasis and should be preferred to itraconazole oral solution (or capsules when not available) due to fewer side effects. For patients who still present with fluconazole-refractory mucosal candidiasis, oral treatment with any other azole should be preferred based on precise Candida species identification and susceptibility testing results in addition to the optimization of HAART when feasible. For vaginal candidiasis, topical therapy is preferred.Clinical Microbiology and Infection 12/2012; 18(s7). DOI:10.1111/1469-0691.12042 · 5.20 Impact Factor
Article: ESCMID guideline for the diagnosis and management of Candida diseases 2012: diagnostic procedures[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Clin Microbiol Infect 2012; 18 (Suppl. 7): 9–18 AbstractAs the mortality associated with invasive Candida infections remains high, it is important to make optimal use of available diagnostic tools to initiate antifungal therapy as early as possible and to select the most appropriate antifungal drug. A panel of experts of the European Fungal Infection Study Group (EFISG) of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID) undertook a data review and compiled guidelines for the clinical utility and accuracy of different diagnostic tests and procedures for detection of Candida infections. Recommendations about the microbiological investigation and detection of candidaemia, invasive candidiasis, chronic disseminated candidiasis, and oropharyngeal, oesophageal, and vaginal candidiasis were included. In addition, remarks about antifungal susceptibility testing and therapeutic drug monitoring were made.Clinical Microbiology and Infection 12/2012; 18(s7). DOI:10.1111/1469-0691.12038 · 5.20 Impact Factor
Article: ESCMID guideline for the diagnosis and management of Candida diseases 2012: prevention and management of invasive infections in neonates and children caused by Candida spp.[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Clin Microbiol Infect 2012; 18 (Suppl. 7): 38–52 AbstractInvasive candidiasis (IC) is a relatively common syndrome in neonates and children and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. These guidelines provide recommendations for the prevention and treatment of IC in neonates and children. Appropriate agents for the prevention of IC in neonates at high risk include fluconazole (A-I), nystatin (B-II) or lactoferrin ± Lactobacillus (B-II). The treatment of IC in neonates is complicated by the high likelihood of disseminated disease, including the possibility of infection within the central nervous system. Amphotericin B deoxycholate (B-II), liposomal amphotericin B (B-II), amphotericin B lipid complex (ABLC) (C-II), fluconazole (B-II), micafungin (B-II) and caspofungin (C-II) can all be potentially used. Recommendations for the prevention of IC in children are largely extrapolated from studies performed in adults with concomitant pharmacokinetic data and models in children. For allogeneic HSCT recipients, fluconazole (A-I), voriconazole (A-I), micafungin (A-I), itraconazole (B-II) and posaconazole (B-II) can all be used. Similar recommendations are made for the prevention of IC in children in other risk groups. With several exceptions, recommendations for the treatment of IC in children are extrapolated from adult studies, with concomitant pharmacokinetic studies. Amphotericin B deoxycholate (C-I), liposomal amphotericin B (A-I), ABLC (B-II), micafungin (A-I), caspofungin (A-I), anidulafungin (B-II), fluconazole (B-I) and voriconazole (B-I) can all be used.Clinical Microbiology and Infection 12/2012; 18(s7). DOI:10.1111/1469-0691.12040 · 5.20 Impact Factor
Article: ESCMID guideline for the diagnosis and management of Candida diseases 2012: non-neutropenic adult patients[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Clin Microbiol Infect 2012; 18 (Suppl. 7): 19–37 AbstractThis part of the EFISG guidelines focuses on non-neutropenic adult patients. Only a few of the numerous recommendations can be summarized in the abstract. Prophylactic usage of fluconazole is supported in patients with recent abdominal surgery and recurrent gastrointestinal perforations or anastomotic leakages. Candida isolation from respiratory secretions alone should never prompt treatment. For the targeted initial treatment of candidaemia, echinocandins are strongly recommended while liposomal amphotericin B and voriconazole are supported with moderate, and fluconazole with marginal strength. Treatment duration for candidaemia should be a minimum of 14 days after the end of candidaemia, which can be determined by one blood culture per day until negativity. Switching to oral treatment after 10 days of intravenous therapy has been safe in stable patients with susceptible Candida species. In candidaemia, removal of indwelling catheters is strongly recommended. If catheters cannot be removed, lipid-based amphotericin B or echinocandins should be preferred over azoles. Transoesophageal echocardiography and fundoscopy should be performed to detect organ involvement. Native valve endocarditis requires surgery within a week, while in prosthetic valve endocarditis, earlier surgery may be beneficial. The antifungal regimen of choice is liposomal amphotericin B +/− flucytosine. In ocular candidiasis, liposomal amphotericin B +/− flucytosine is recommended when the susceptibility of the isolate is unknown, and in susceptible isolates, fluconazole and voriconazole are alternatives. Amphotericin B deoxycholate is not recommended for any indication due to severe side effects.Clinical Microbiology and Infection 12/2012; 18(s7). DOI:10.1111/1469-0691.12039 · 5.20 Impact Factor
Article: ESCMID guideline for the diagnosis and management of Candida diseases 2012: developing European guidelines in clinical microbiology and infectious diseases[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Clin Microbiol Infect 2012; 18 (Suppl. 7): 1–8 AbstractThe process to develop a guideline in a European setting remains a challenge. The ESCMID Fungal Infection Study Group (EFISG) successfully achieved this endeavour. After two face-to-face meetings, numerous telephone conferences, and email correspondence, an ESCMID task force (basically composed of members of the Society's Fungal Infection Study Group, EFISG) finalized the ESCMID diagnostic and management/therapeutic guideline for Candida diseases. By appreciating various patient populations at risk for Candida diseases, four subgroups were predefined, mainly ICU patients, paediatric, HIV/AIDS and patients with malignancies including haematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Besides treatment recommendations, the ESCMID guidelines provide guidance for diagnostic procedures. For the guidelines, questions were formulated to phrase the intention of a given recommendation, for example, outcome. The recommendation was the clinical intervention, which was graded by a score of A–D for the 'Strength of a recommendation'. The 'level of evidence' received a score of I–III. The author panel was approved by ESCMID, European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer, European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation, European Society of Intensive Care Medicine and the European Confederation of Medical Mycology. The guidelines followed the framework of GRADE and Appraisal of Guidelines, Research, and Evaluation. The drafted guideline was presented at ECCMID 2011 and points of discussion occurring during that meeting were incorporated into the manuscripts. These ESCMID guidelines for the diagnosis and management of Candida diseases provide guidance for clinicians in their daily decision-making process.Clinical Microbiology and Infection 12/2012; 18(s7). DOI:10.1111/1469-0691.12037 · 5.20 Impact Factor
Article: ESCMID guideline for the diagnosis and management of Candida diseases 2012: adults with haematological malignancies and after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT)[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Clin Microbiol Infect 2012; 18 (Suppl. 7): 53–67 AbstractFungal diseases still play a major role in morbidity and mortality in patients with haematological malignancies, including those undergoing haematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Although Aspergillus and other filamentous fungal diseases remain a major concern, Candida infections are still a major cause of mortality. This part of the ESCMID guidelines focuses on this patient population and reviews pertaining to prophylaxis, empirical/pre-emptive and targeted therapy of Candida diseases. Anti-Candida prophylaxis is only recommended for patients receiving allogeneic stem cell transplantation. The authors recognize that the recommendations would have most likely been different if the purpose would have been prevention of all fungal infections (e.g. aspergillosis). In targeted treatment of candidaemia, recommendations for treatment are available for all echinocandins, that is anidulafungin (AI), caspofungin (AI) and micafungin (AI), although a warning for resistance is expressed. Liposomal amphotericin B received a BI recommendation due to higher number of reported adverse events in the trials. Amphotericin B deoxycholate should not be used (DII); and fluconazole was rated CI because of a change in epidemiology in some areas in Europe. Removal of central venous catheters is recommended during candidaemia but if catheter retention is a clinical necessity, treatment with an echinocandin is an option (CIIt). In chronic disseminated candidiasis therapy, recommendations are liposomal amphotericin B for 8 weeks (AIII), fluconazole for >3 months or other azoles (BIII). Granulocyte transfusions are only an option in desperate cases of patients with Candida disease and neutropenia (CIII).Clinical Microbiology and Infection 12/2012; 18(s7). DOI:10.1111/1469-0691.12041 · 5.20 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Meningitis due to Streptococcus pneumoniae is a rare complication of trans-sphenoidal surgery. We present the case of a patient who developed pneumococcal meningitis with associated bacteraemia after elective endoscopic trans-sphenoidal resection of a pituitary macro-adenoma. After initial treatment with ceftriaxone and dexamethasone, the patient made a good recovery and dexamethasone was discontinued. Two days later the patient's condition deteriorated rapidly, presenting focal and diffuse neurological deficits. Cerebral MRI revealed widespread punctate ischaemic-type lesions affecting both anterior and posterior vascular territories bilaterally and involving features consistent with cerebral vasculitis. Antibiotic treatment was broadened to include meropenem and dexamethasone was restarted, but the patient remained in a comatose state and died 14 days later. Steroid treatment may play a dual role in this poorly characterised infectious complication of trans-sphenoidal pituitary surgery. This possibility is discussed and the options for prophylaxis are reviewed.Schweizerische medizinische Wochenschrift 10/2012; 142. DOI:10.4414/smw.2012.13697 · 1.88 Impact Factor
Article: Challenging Recommended Oral and Intravenous Voriconazole Doses for Improved Efficacy and Safety: Population Pharmacokinetics-Based Analysis of Adult Patients With Invasive Fungal Infections[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Recommended oral voriconazole (VRC) doses are lower than intravenous doses. Because plasma concentrations impact efficacy and safety of therapy, optimizing individual drug exposure may improve these outcomes. A population pharmacokinetic analysis (NONMEM) was performed on 505 plasma concentration measurements involving 55 patients with invasive mycoses who received recommended VRC doses. A 1-compartment model with first-order absorption and elimination best fitted the data. VRC clearance was 5.2 L/h, the volume of distribution was 92 L, the absorption rate constant was 1.1 hour(-1), and oral bioavailability was 0.63. Severe cholestasis decreased VRC elimination by 52%. A large interpatient variability was observed on clearance (coefficient of variation [CV], 40%) and bioavailability (CV 84%), and an interoccasion variability was observed on bioavailability (CV, 93%). Lack of response to therapy occurred in 12 of 55 patients (22%), and grade 3 neurotoxicity occurred in 5 of 55 patients (9%). A logistic multivariate regression analysis revealed an independent association between VRC trough concentrations and probability of response or neurotoxicity by identifying a therapeutic range of 1.5 mg/L (>85% probability of response) to 4.5 mg/L (<15% probability of neurotoxicity). Population-based simulations with the recommended 200 mg oral or 300 mg intravenous twice-daily regimens predicted probabilities of 49% and 87%, respectively, for achievement of 1.5 mg/L and of 8% and 37%, respectively, for achievement of 4.5 mg/L. With 300-400 mg twice-daily oral doses and 200-300 mg twice-daily intravenous doses, the predicted probabilities of achieving the lower target concentration were 68%-78% for the oral regimen and 70%-87% for the intravenous regimen, and the predicted probabilities of achieving the upper target concentration were 19%-29% for the oral regimen and 18%-37% for the intravenous regimen. Higher oral than intravenous VRC doses, followed by individualized adjustments based on measured plasma concentrations, improve achievement of the therapeutic target that maximizes the probability of therapeutic response and minimizes the probability of neurotoxicity. These findings challenge dose recommendations for VRC.Clinical Infectious Diseases 05/2012; 55(3):381-90. DOI:10.1093/cid/cis437 · 9.42 Impact Factor
Article: Isothermal microcalorimetry: a novel method for real-time determination of antifungal susceptibility of Aspergillus species[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: We evaluated microcalorimetry for real-time susceptibility testing of Aspergillus spp. based on growth-related heat production. The minimal heat inhibitory concentration (MHIC) for A. fumigatus ATCC 204305 was 1 mg/L for amphotericin B, 0.25 mg/L for voriconazole, 0.06 mg/L for posaconazole, 0.125 mg/L for caspofungin and 0.03 mg/L for anidulafungin. Agreement within two 2-fold dilutions between MHIC (determined by microcalorimetry) and MIC or MEC (determined by CLSI M38A) was 90% for amphotericin B, 100% for voriconazole, 90% for posaconazole and 70% for caspofungin. This proof-of-concept study demonstrated the potential of isothermal microcalorimetry for growth evaluation of Aspergillus spp. and real-time antifungal susceptibility testing.Clinical Microbiology and Infection 03/2012; 18(7):E241-5. DOI:10.1111/j.1469-0691.2012.03854.x · 5.20 Impact Factor
Article: ECIL-3 classical diagnostic procedures for the diagnosis of invasive fungal diseases in patients with leukaemia[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Invasive fungal diseases (IFDs) continue to cause considerable morbidity and mortality in patients with haematological malignancy. Diagnosis of IFD is difficult, with the sensitivity of the gold standard tests (culture and histopathology) often reported to be low, which may at least in part be due to sub-optimal sampling or subsequent handling in the routine microbiological laboratory. Therefore, a working group of the European Conference in Infections in Leukaemia was convened in 2009 with the task of reviewing the classical diagnostic procedures and providing recommendations for their optimal use. The recommendations were presented and approved at the ECIL-3 conference in September 2009. Although new serological and molecular tests are examined in separate papers, this review focuses on sample types, microscopy and culture procedures, antifungal susceptibility testing and imaging. The performance and limitations of these procedures are discussed and recommendations are provided on when and how to use them and how to interpret the results.Bone marrow transplantation 01/2012; 47(8):1030-45. DOI:10.1038/bmt.2011.246 · 3.47 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: This report discusses the present status of antifungal therapy and treatment options for candidaemia, considered by experts in the field in Europe. A conference of 26 experts from 13 European countries was held to discuss strategies for the treatment and prevention of invasive candidiasis, with the aim of providing a review on optimal management strategies. Published and unpublished comparative trials on antifungal therapy were analysed and discussed. Commonly asked questions about the management of candidaemia were selected, and possible responses to these questions were discussed. Panellists were then asked to respond to each question by using a touchpad answering system. After the initial conference, the viewpoint document has been reviewed and edited to include new insights and developments since the initial meeting. For many situations, consensus on treatment could not be reached, and the responses indicate that treatment is likely to be modified on a patient-to-patient basis, depending on factors such as degree of illness, prior exposure to azole antifungals, and the presence of potentially antifungal drug-resistant Candida species.Clinical Microbiology and Infection 09/2011; 17 Suppl 5:1-12. DOI:10.1111/j.1469-0691.2011.03615.x · 5.20 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: ABSTRACT: Invasive candidiasis ranges from 5 to 10 cases per 1,000 ICU admissions and represents 5% to 10% of all ICU-acquired infections, with an overall mortality comparable to that of severe sepsis/septic shock. A large majority of them are due to Candida albicans, but the proportion of strains with decreased sensitivity or resistance to fluconazole is increasingly reported. A high proportion of ICU patients become colonized, but only 5% to 30% of them develop an invasive infection. Progressive colonization and major abdominal surgery are common risk factors, but invasive candidiasis is difficult to predict and early diagnosis remains a major challenge. Indeed, blood cultures are positive in a minority of cases and often late in the course of infection. New nonculture-based laboratory techniques may contribute to early diagnosis and management of invasive candidiasis. Both serologic (mannan, antimannan, and betaglucan) and molecular (Candida-specific PCR in blood and serum) have been applied as serial screening procedures in high-risk patients. However, although reasonably sensitive and specific, these techniques are largely investigational and their clinical usefulness remains to be established. Identification of patients susceptible to benefit from empirical antifungal treatment remains challenging, but it is mandatory to avoid antifungal overuse in critically ill patients. Growing evidence suggests that monitoring the dynamic of Candida colonization in surgical patients and prediction rules based on combined risk factors may be used to identify ICU patients at high risk of invasive candidiasis susceptible to benefit from prophylaxis or preemptive antifungal treatment.09/2011; 1(1):37. DOI:10.1186/2110-5820-1-37
Article: Multicenter, prospective clinical evaluation of respiratory samples from subjects at risk for Pneumocystis jirovecii infection by use of a commercial real-time PCR assay.[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) is a common opportunistic infection. Microscopic diagnosis, including diagnosis using the Merifluor-Pneumocystis direct fluorescent antigen (MP-DFA) test, has limitations. Real-time PCR may assist in diagnosis, but no commercially validated real-time PCR assay has been available to date. MycAssay Pneumocystis is a commercial assay that targets the P. jirovecii mitochondrial large subunit (analytical detection limit, ≤ 3.5 copies/μl of sample). A multicenter trial recruited 110 subjects: 54 with transplants (40 with lung transplants), 32 with nonmalignant conditions, 13 with leukemia, and 11 with solid tumors; 9 were HIV positive. A total of 110 respiratory samples (92% of which were bronchoalveolar lavage [BAL] specimens) were analyzed by PCR. Performance was characterized relative to investigator-determined clinical diagnosis of PCP (including local diagnostic tests), and PCR results were compared with MP-DFA test results for 83 subjects. Thirteen of 14 subjects with PCP and 9/96 without PCP (including 5 undergoing BAL surveillance after lung transplantation) had positive PCR results; sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV, respectively) were 93%, 91%, 59%, and 99%, respectively. Fourteen of 83 subjects for whom PCR and MP-DFA test results were available had PCP; PCR sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 93%, 90%, 65%, and 98%, respectively, and MP-DFA test sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 93%, 100%, 100%, and 98%. Of the 9 PCR-positive subjects without PCP, 1 later developed PCP. The PCR diagnostic assay compares well with clinical diagnosis using nonmolecular methods. Additional positive results compared with the MP-DFA test may reflect low-level infection or colonization.Journal of clinical microbiology 03/2011; 49(5):1872-8. DOI:10.1128/JCM.02390-10 · 4.23 Impact Factor
Top Journals
University Hospital of Lausanne
Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland
- • Institute of Microbiology (IMUL)
- • Département de médecine
University of Lausanne
Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland
- • Institute of Microbiology
- • Faculté de biologie et de médecine (FBM)
Universitätsspital BaselBâle, Basel-City, Switzerland
University of Geneva
Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
- Division of Infectious Diseases
University of LyonLyons, Rhône-Alpes, France
Universität BernBerna, Bern, Switzerland
National Institutes of HealthMaryland, United States
European Organisation for Research and Treatment of CancerBruxelles, Brussels Capital, Belgium
Swedish University of Agricultural SciencesUppsala, Uppsala, Sweden
Ghent University
Gand, Flemish, Belgium
- Department of Clinical Biology, Microbiology and Immunology
The Rockefeller UniversityNew York City, New York, United States


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Archive: Current OperationsShowing 400-500 of 708 items, Subscribe to RSS Feed
Electricity powers economic development in southern Afghanistan
Mar 18, 2013
Modern economic development requires energy to fuel everything from factory floors filled with machinery to a single sewing machine at a tailor's modest shop. To that end, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers implemented a transitional solution that provides consistent, predictable electricity to businesses in Kandahar province: the Kandahar Bridging Solution.
Zabul Agribusiness Development Team vaccinates more than 1,500 animals in Shin Kay district
Mar 17, 2013
Soldiers of the Zabul Agribusiness Development Team completed a four-day mission March 7, 2013, to vaccinate and assess the livestock in Shin Kay district of Zabul Province, Afghanistan.
101st Airborne Division assumes command in Afghanistan
Mar 14, 2013
The 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) took charge of military operations from the 1st Infantry Division in eastern Afghanistan, March 14, 2013, in a ceremony on Bagram Airfield.
North Dakota Guardsmen complete exercise in Cameroon
Mar 14, 2013
Nearly 40 North Dakota National Guard members who took part in a U.S. Army Africa exercise in Cameroon are back home as their Central African military counterparts develop follow-on plans for using their newly learned skills.
Secretary of Defense visits Jalalabad Airfield, Afghanistan
Mar 10, 2013
Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel visited the Soldiers of 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), March 9, 2013, at Forward Operating Base Fenty, Afghanistan.
Afghan women honored for service to country
Mar 8, 2013
Afghan Air Force observed International Women's Day by honoring Afghan military women who seize the opportunity to serve in non-traditional roles in support of their country.
Improving Fuel Distribution Effectiveness in Afghanistan
Mar 6, 2013
Balancing fuel consumption, capacity, and distribution velocity was essential to meeting the fuel needs of units in Regional Command Capital in Afghanistan.
'Operation Slingshot' allows Soldiers to turn in equipment quicker prior to Afghan departure
Mar 6, 2013
Fort Campbell's "Rakkasans" are on a slingshot course that will lead them straight home to Fort Campbell, Ky., a bit quicker thanks to turn-in operations with the 401st Army Field Support Brigade in Bagram, Afghanistan.
Afghan investigators take lead
Mar 5, 2013
Afghan Uniform Police investigators will soon be leading the way in training other Afghan Criminal Investigation Teams to gather evidence used to prosecute criminals and insurgents in Uruzgan province, Afghanistan.
Peyton Manning's touchdown on Bagram
Mar 4, 2013
Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning, Major League Baseball hall of famer Curt Schilling, along with the National Football League's Austin Collie and Vincent Jackson, visited Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, March 1, 2013, as part of a USO tour.
Guardsmen celebrate Texas independence while deployed to Afghanistan
Mar 4, 2013
Texas National Guard and coalition forces celebrated 177th anniversary of Texas' independence from Mexico at Multinational Base Tarin Kowt, March 2, 2013.
New flight system deploys with 2-3 Aviation
Mar 2, 2013
A team from Foxtrot Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment, Task Force Viper, keeps the air traffic running at Forward Operating Base Wolverine in the Zabul province of southern Afghanistan, 24 hours a day with a little help from the latest equipment on the battlefield.
18th MEDCOM leads first U.S. Army Pacific Humanitarian De-mining Action Program with Sri Lanka
Feb 27, 2013
Medical specialists from the 18th Medical Command (Deployment Support) led a joint mobile training team of specialist to the Sri Lankan Army Humanitarian De-mining Unit's Camp Boo-Oya, to unfold the first phase of an Humanitarian Mining Action Program that will help the Sri Lankan Army enhance its medical efforts and ability with de-mining in that region of the country.
Afghan policewoman hosts women's radio show
Feb 26, 2013
The only female Afghan Uniformed Police member in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, guest hosted a women's call-in show to answer questions from local women and help recruit more women to the force, Feb. 21, 2013.
CSA visits Regional Command-South
Feb 25, 2013
Army Chief of Staff Gen. Raymond T. Odierno visited with leaders and Soldiers deployed to Regional Command -- South), Afghanistan, at Forward Operating Base Masum Ghar and at Forward Operating Base Frontenac, Feb. 21, 2013.
Utah Guard linguists contribute unique skills during African exercises
Feb 25, 2013
Staff Sgt. Ray Novak, with the 560th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade, Georgia Army National Guard, teaches in English, Parker listens, translates the message into French, and mimics the instructor's motions while varying his tone to maintain the audience's interest.
African, U.S. military forces join together to mark opening of Central Accord 13
Feb 24, 2013
Hundreds of Cameroon military personnel, alongside U.S. and other Central Africa service members, lined the 102 Air Force Base airfield in Douala, Cameroon, Feb. 20, 2013, as part of an opening ceremony for Central Accord 13.
Afghan farmers turn almonds into profit
Feb 21, 2013
In a country where farming is a means of survival, farmers in the province of Uruzgan, Afghanistan, have taken significant steps to commercialize agriculture.
Afghan Police medic steps up training in Deh Rawud
Feb 21, 2013
Afghan Police learn the basics of combat first aid from one of their own at Forward Operating Base Hadrian, Deh Rawud district, Uruzgan province, under watchful eyes of Texas Army National Guard Soldiers, Feb. 13, 2013. During the past two months, 21 policemen in Deh Rawud district have been trained in Combat Life Saver first aid by Soldiers with the 56th Infantry Brigade Combat Team Police Security Force Advisor Team and now one of the Afghan patrolmen has stepped up to train his fellow officers.
U.S., African partners ready for Central Accord 13
Feb 19, 2013
Months of long-distance planning and meetings evolved in recent weeks into an in-person partnership that will launch Central Accord 13. Activity peaked in Douala, Cameroon, during the past week as American and Cameroonian military partners completed final steps for welcoming about 750 U.S. and Cameroon service members, as well as neighboring country observers, for the Feb. 20 opening ceremony.
U.S. Army Africa sponsors deployment training for Malawi Defence Force
Feb 15, 2013
As part of African Deployment Partnership Training, four U.S. Army officers traveled to Salima, Malawi, to conduct convoy training with 32 Malawian Defence Force personnel, from Jan. 21 to Feb. 1, 2013.
Local leaders in Afghan district meet each other, their future
Feb 14, 2013
The district of Spin Boldak, Afghanistan, is moving forward after government, military and civilian leaders met at the district center Feb. 11, 2013, to discuss the future of the district and to help ensure stability.
Afghan EOD technician works toward qualification
Feb 12, 2013
Afghan Border Police explosive ordnance disposal technicians are one step closer to being qualified after a joint training validation event with U.S. Air Force EOD technicians, Feb. 5, 2013, at Forward Operating Base Spin Boldak, Afghanistan.
TEDD handler, dog go on first mission together
Feb 12, 2013
After hours of climbing over the rugged grape rows of Afghanistan in search of a weapons cache, Pfc. Franklin Sena and his platoon heard the familiar sound of small-arms fire coming at them.
DOD leaders see 401st retrograde operations while sustaining critical systems in theater
Feb 10, 2013
Department of Defense officials for acquisition, technology and logistics and program support visited the 401st Army Field Support Brigade to observe how the brigade leverages resources to retrograde equipment while sustaining critical systems.
Mississippi Guard Soldiers teach Afghan farmers water, soil management
Feb 8, 2013
Twenty-nine Afghans representing the Farmers Cooperative program traveled to Qalat, Feb. 4-5, 2013, for a two-day workshop on water and soil conservation management held by the Zabul Agribusiness Development Team.
Soldiers teach Afghans how to tell their story to public
Feb 2, 2013
Afghan National Army public affairs soldiers are partnering with U.S. Soldiers at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, to learn valuable skills to tell the story of their burgeoning independence.
'Providers' team with non-profit to bring Super Bowl pizzas to Afghanistan
Feb 1, 2013
Thousands of pizzas were delivered to Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, Jan. 21, 2013, thanks to Pizza 4 Patriots.
Afghan troops train on D-30 Howitzer
Jan 29, 2013
Soldiers from Security Forces Assistance and Advisory Team - 5, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), assisted in the training of the Afghan National Army on the D-30 Howitzers at Combat Outpost Monti, Afghanistan, Jan. 18, 2013.
An Excalibur's first flight over Kandahar
Jan 29, 2013
Gunners of Bravo Battery, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Field Artillery Regiment, shot an Excalibur round out of a M-777 howitzer cannon for the first time at Forward Operating Base Frontenac, Afghanistan, Jan. 20, 2013.
Hawaii Guard assistance team mentors, trains Afghan Uniformed Police
Jan 28, 2013
"Hippos" is the name the 11-man Security Forces Assistance Team goes by when rolling off Forward Operating Base Lagman, Afghanistan, for a mission.
411th Engineer Brigade leaves legacy in Afghanistan
Jan 28, 2013
As Joint Task Force Empire, the members of the 411th Engineer Brigade, headquartered at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, with technical representative staffs throughout Afghanistan, executed sustained, multifunctional engineer operations as the lead engineer force assigned to U.S. Forces-Afghanistan.
U.S. troops, Afghan police visit border observation post
Jan 28, 2013
Afghan Border Police officers and U.S. Soldiers from ABP Zone 1 recently visited Observation Point 12, a small post in Kunar Province along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, Jan. 21, 2013.
ISAF, NATO employ tactics against 'insider threats'
Jan 28, 2013
NATO military leaders addressed the "insider threat" challenge in Afghanistan during a conference, Jan. 24, 2013, at the Joint Multinational Training Command in Grafenwoehr, Germany.
Secretary of Defense rescinds 'Direct Ground Combat Definition and Assignment Rule'
Jan 24, 2013
Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Martin Dempsey signed a memo Jan. 24, 2013, paving the way for more women to serve in direct combat roles and in more military occupational specialties that are now open only to males.
'Building Strong' for the people in Uruzgan province
Jan 22, 2013
Since 2009, the South District has been building infrastructure to promote security and stability in Badghis, Daykundi, Farah, Ghor, Helmand, Herat, Kandahar, Nimroz, Uruzgan and Zabul Provinces in Afghanistan.
Medical training prepares Afghan police for sustainability
Jan 22, 2013
Afghan Uniformed Police members received training on field medical techniques from Soldiers with Security Force Assistance Team Tombstone at the Spin Boldak District Police Headquarters, Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, Jan. 19, 2013.
New Afghan Uniformed Police District HQ completed in Kushk
Jan 22, 2013
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers delivered a newly completed Afghan Uniformed Police District Headquarters to Afghan authorities, Jan. 20, 2013, in Kushk District, Herat Province.
Kandahar Air Wing gains new medevac trainers
Jan 17, 2013
The Kandahar Air Wing added two trainers to its team of flight medics after a culminating exercise and graduation ceremony, Jan. 16, 2013, at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, marking the completion of a four-week course administered by their partners in Task Force Knighthawk, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment.
Building Afghanistan: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at work
Jan 16, 2013
How does the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers oversee construction in Afghanistan? Who decides the scope, design, location or budget of the projects? The answers to those questions are not simple, neither are the steps involved in bringing projects to completion.
N.Y. Guard Soldiers find home, happiness in Afghanistan
Jan 16, 2013
Forward Operating Base Mescal has no Morale, Welfare and Recreation facility. It has no Post Exchange, no laundry drop off and no post office. Soldiers stationed here receive mail about once a month and the chow hall offers two choices at every meal: Take it or leave it.
A dog's life: Mine dogs train to save lives
Jan 15, 2013
Staff Sgt. Allen, a mine-detection dog, searches a muddy gravel road with his nose low to the ground.
New female recruits join Afghan police force
Jan 12, 2013
The Afghan Uniformed Police force relies quite a bit on fresh new recruits to ensure the safety of Afghan civilians, but what it needs more than anything are female recruits.
31 service members deployed to Afghanistan earn U.S. citizenship
Jan 9, 2013
Patriotism means many things to different people. In fact, it has even taken on a political connotation during the past few years. For service members deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, it means a long journey has finally come to fruition.
'Golden Gate' bridges strategic Afghan crossing
Jan 9, 2013
As NATO forces work toward bridging the gap from military operations to a self-sufficient Afghanistan, Army, Navy and Marine engineers of Joint Task Force Empire took the mission literally as they conducted Operation Golden Gate near Sangin, Helmand province, Afghanistan, through the months of November and December.
Afghan Army completes successful resupply mission
Jan 5, 2013
The Afghan National Army recently conducted a mission to resupply the Afghan Uniform Police at Chapah Darah, Afghanistan, by conducting a convoy operation from Nangalam Base, Dec. 26, 2012.
Fort Carson detachment opens first veterinary facility in Afghanistan
Jan 3, 2013
The 438th Medical Detachment (Veterinary Service) from Fort Carson, Colo., officially opened their doors to Afghanistan's first Veterinary Treatment Facility at Kandahar Airfield, Dec. 15, 2012.
14 seconds to impact: Training helps save pilots' lives
Jan 3, 2013
It was early on a summer morning in Afghanistan as Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mark Foschetti and Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mike McGann headed back toward Bagram Airfield, when their morning changed in a way they'd never forget.
Mass. detachment assumes Preventive Medicine duties in southern Afghanistan
Jan 2, 2013
A ceremony was held Dec. 3, 2012, at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, commemorating the transfer of authority from the 792nd Preventive Medicine Detachment based out of Lubbock, Texas, to the 794th Preventive Medicine Detachment, based out of Fort Devens, Mass.
'Sky Soldiers' hold pre-Ranger course while deployed to Afghanistan
Jan 2, 2013
Taking advantage of the decrease in enemy activity brought on by winter, the Soldiers of 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, took the opportunity to develop and conduct a pre-Ranger course.
Couple takes journey through life side-by-side
Jan 2, 2013
Once David and Lizeth Wakasa exchanged their vows they would set into motion an inseparable journey that would lead them to Afghanistan and eventually the Pentagon.
Afghan soldiers successfully graduate combat engineer course
Jan 2, 2013
Soldiers assigned to 2nd Platoon, 258th Mobile Combat Engineer Training Team, Task Force Prowler, partnered with Afghan soldiers from the 4th Kandak, Engineer Coy, Afghan National Army, conducted a live-fire exercise to conclude a two-week combat engineer course near Camp Clark, Afghanistan, Dec. 20, 2012.
Deployed couple relies on battlefield travel, luck to see each other
Jan 1, 2013
On Dec. 26, 2012, Spc. Brendon Brown stepped off his Stryker Combat Vehicle at Combat Outpost Talukan, Afghanistan, looking for a familiar face.
401st AFSB completes M1114 transfer to ANA
Dec 31, 2012
A historic mission for the 401st Army Field Support Brigade came to an end Nov. 12 when AFSBattalion-Bagram issued 49 M1114 vehicles to the Afghan National Army under a Foreign Military Sales case.
Soldiers in Afghanistan continue mission as 2013 arrives
Dec 31, 2012
As Americans ring in the new year, Soldiers, Afghan security forces and their coalition partners are engaged in combat, training and humanitarian operations.
U.S. to improve electric grid in Kandahar Province
Dec 29, 2012
Electricity is a scarce resource in Kandahar City, Afghanistan, but should become less so for Kandahar government district centers and businesses when four separate projects, designed to improve electricity distribution in key areas of the city, are completed by winter 2013.
Kandahar Air Wing holds media event, displays expertise
Dec 28, 2012
The Kandahar Air Wing held a media event Dec. 24, 2012, at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, to demonstrate its military proficiency and connect with outlets in Kandahar, province.
Father, son spend time together on Christmas Day in Afghanistan
Dec 28, 2012
First Sgt. Stephen Givens and his son Pfc. Zachary Givens spent time together on Christmas Day in Afghanistan. Both father and son are currently deployed with the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade.
'Rakkasan' chaplains bring Christmas hope in Afghanistan
Dec 28, 2012
This year the chaplains of 3rd Brigade Combat Team "Rakkasans," 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), sought to bring the Christmas spirit to the Soldiers of Forward Operating Base Salerno, Afghanistan.
'Rakkasans' receive support for Christmas
Dec 27, 2012
During this holiday season, Soldiers with the 3rd Brigade Combat Team "Rakkasans," 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), will be spending the holidays deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
Chaplains spread holiday spirit across Afghanistan
Dec 26, 2012
For Soldiers serving on forward operating bases and combat outposts across Afghanistan, receiving packages from home during the holiday season can turn a good day into the best day of the deployment.
Torkham Gate security forces protect Afghan people
Dec 26, 2012
Torkham Gate is one of Afghanistan's busiest gates along the country's border with Pakistan.
Deployment doesn't slow former National Guard marathon champ
Dec 23, 2012
A year-long deployment in Afghanistan hasn't slowed former National Guard Bureau marathon champion Capt. Varinka Barbini Ensminger at all. In fact, the 32-year old from the Kentucky Army Guard is living life at a faster tempo than ever.
USO tour visits remote post in Southern Afghanistan
Dec 21, 2012
Celebrities with the USO tour visited Soldiers with the 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Dec. 16, 2012, at Forward Operating Base Masum Ghar, Afghanistan.
Santa visits wounded warriors, staff members at hospital in Afghanistan
Dec 19, 2012
Santa came to town and brought joy with him as he gave Christmas stockings to staff members and patients at the Craig Joint Theater Hospital at Bagram Airield, Afghanistan, Dec. 18, 2012.
Eagle Express: A team of junior leaders making it happen
Dec 19, 2012
For the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, Task Force Destiny, supporting the aviation needs of ground forces is the core of the mission. In order to achieve success, the aircraft need to be at peak performance.
Australian, American Soldiers share Christmas spirit in Afghanistan
Dec 19, 2012
More than 11 years into the war in Afghanistan, care packages continue to be a pleasant reminder that Soldiers serving at Multinational Base Tarin Kot are remembered during the holiday season.
USO brings holiday cheer, laughter to troops in Southern Afghanistan
Dec 17, 2012
Members of the 2012 annual USO holiday tour, Craig Stammen, Kellie Pickler, Ross Detwiler, Matt Hendricks and Iliza Shlesinger, stopped at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, to entertain and raise morale of deployed service members, Dec. 16, 2012.
Afghan electrical engineers, linemen receive training, new equipment
Dec 16, 2012
Afghan engineers and linemen in Helmand province just got a major helping hand thanks to a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers program that taught Da Afghaninstan Breshna Sherkat (Afghanistan's electric utility company) employees how to safely operate the new electric utility trucks donated to them by the United States in early December.
Panetta talks future of force with troops in Afghanistan
Dec 15, 2012
Defense Secretary Leon Panetta visited Kandahar Airfield , Afghanistan, Dec. 13, 2012, to discuss progress in the war in Afghanistan, the challenges the Defense Department faces and what changes service members can expect for the future of their careers in the military.
Soldiers gather to strengthen resiliency, combat stress
Dec 14, 2012
Chaplains from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team "Rakkasans," 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), gathered in a briefing room at Forward Operating Base Salerno, Afghanistan, for an extensive two-day training event aimed at increasing individual resiliency, Dec. 5, 2012.
U.S., Romanian Soldier team up to rescue Afghan honey bees
Dec 12, 2012
When the Mescal Detachment of Agricultural Development Team 4 from Mississippi arrived in Afghanistan, they didn't know they were inheriting beehives from the outgoing Agricultural Development Team, but they found out pretty quickly and they were just in time.
Chief Army Nurse visits Afghanistan
Dec 11, 2012
Maj. Gen. Jimmie O. Keenan, the commanding general of U.S. Army Public Health Command, and chief of the Army Nurse Corps, met with medical providers at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, Dec. 8, 2012.
Guard wounded warrior, Afghanistan veteran advocates suicide prevention
Dec 11, 2012
Twin brothers Earl and Joseph Granville were brothers by blood as well as brothers in arms. They were bunkmates in basic training and deployed twice together overseas. But everything changed after retired Army Staff Sgt. Earl Granville's third deployment with the Pennsylvania National Guard.
'Building Strong' in Afghanistan also means building safe
Dec 10, 2012
Throughout the Afghanistan Engineer District-South area of operations, where dozens of Afghan National Security Forces installations are under construction, safety and occupational health specialists visit job sites daily to make sure laborers are protected from unnecessary risks.
The next surge in Afghanistan - holiday mail
Dec 10, 2012
The troop surge in Afghanistan officially ended in September, but Soldiers of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, are preparing for another surge that will arrive in country over the next three weeks: holiday mail.
USACE's military construction program in southern Afghanistan winds down
Dec 5, 2012
Since its beginning in 2009, the Afghanistan Engineer District-South has awarded 46 contracts for military construction and has completed 35 of them. Those 35 projects in south and west Afghanistan are valued at about $540 million. The South District has 11 more military construction projects which will be done by the spring of 2013, one slated for completion in the fall of 2013 and one slated for award in late December 2012.
Peace and reintegration future in Afghan's hands
Dec 3, 2012
Uruzgan provincial and district level leaders, along with members from Combined Team Uruzgan, Uruzgan Provincial Reconstruction Team and Special Operations Task Force Southeast, conducted a vital visit to support the Afghan Peace and Reintegration Program, Nov. 24, 2012.
Afghan Security Forces close out Kalak Hode
Nov 28, 2012
A major Afghan National Security Forces operation to clear insurgents from the southern Afghanistan province of Uruzgan during Nov. 4 to 20, once again demonstrated ANSF's ability to operate independently.
ISAF improves Afghanistan's judicial system
Nov 28, 2012
Coalition forces are working with Afghan forensic evidence collection teams to ensure criminal evidence stands up in court.
Building eco dome brings villagers, service members together
Nov 27, 2012
Roughly three years ago, a group of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa military members arrived at the small village of Karabti San several hours north of Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, in the Tadjourah region to build an eco dome.
CTF 4-2 takes over for sister brigade in Afghanistan
Nov 27, 2012
In front of local Afghan provincial government officials and the Regional Command-South command team, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division unfurled its unit colors and obtained command from its sister brigade, 3rd SBCT, 2nd Inf. Div., during a Transfer of Authority ceremony here, Nov. 24.
Mountain Blade: Partnership slices through historic Afghan pass
Nov 27, 2012
With a surface denoting the embodiment of Afghanistan's tumultuous history, the Salang Pass is more than a roadway; it's an economic and cultural symbol to Afghans. The battered roadway through the Parwan province is the primary transit route between northern and southern Afghanistan crossing the treacherous Hindu Kush mountain range and typically the only pass in the area to remain in use the entire year.
Troops prepare to keep steady peace in Sinai
Nov 27, 2012
Alongside current tensions and upheavals in the Middle East and northern Africa in the wake of the Arab Spring movements, the peacekeeping mission on the Sinai Peninsula continues after more than 30 years. Soldiers of the 5-113th Field Artillery are deploying to the Sinai for a year as Multinational Force Observers.
Fitness competition brings FOB together
Nov 26, 2012
Twenty competitors and twice as many spectators congregated for the Forward Operating Base Lightning Warrior Competition, Nov. 2, 2012, in Paktiya Province, Afghanistan, to take part in or observe a six-stage fitness contest.
'Steppe Eagle' soars over Kazakhstan
Nov 26, 2012
More than 1,000 service members from six nations converged on the Republic of Kazakhstan, Sept. 6-18, 2012, for the 10th-annual, multinational, peacekeeping Exercise Steppe Eagle.
Afghan Border Police take lead in Operation Southern Strike IV
Nov 26, 2012
Members of the 3rd Zone Afghan Border Police and their respective Security Forces Assistance Team advisers made a deliberate effort to reach the remote areas in Spin Boldak and Tak-teh Pol districts, remove insurgent influence and address villagers economic and security concerns during Operation Southern Strike IV in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, Nov. 15-18, 2012.
Task Force Centurion helps Afghan training, real-world mission
Nov 26, 2012
Dozens of Afghan National Army soldiers stealthily entered the security gates of the coalition ammunition point after a simulated report of an insurgent attack on Camp Phoenix during a training exercise here, Nov. 3, 2012.
Westphal, Austin survey battlefield, present awards, thank troops for service
Nov 25, 2012
The Army's second highest ranking civilian and military leaders met with American and NATO leadership at regional commands, hospitals, forward operating bases, and support units throughout eastern and southern Afghanistan, and thanked service members, civilians, and contractors for their hard work and sacrifice during a three-day visit, Nov. 20-23, 2012.
Westphal, Austin visit, thank troops in southern Afghanistan Thanksgiving Day
Nov 22, 2012
Instead of spending the holidays with loved ones and enjoying time off, holidays for those serving in Afghanistan mean business as usual. The mission to bring peace and stability to Afghanistan doesn't take a holiday, and neither does the enemy.
USACE builds road in Helmand province, cuts travel time in half
Nov 19, 2012
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is constructing a road in Helmand province, from Nawa to Lashkar Gah, in Southern Afghanistan, that already has cut travel time in half.
Attitude gives Helicopter Landing Zone team what it needs
Nov 17, 2012
The Soldiers of Headquarters Company, 626th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team "Rakkasans," 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), show off their combat efficiency with sling load operations in Khowst Province, Afghanistan.
Soldiers using sunlight to improve combat capability
Nov 14, 2012
Soldiers are enlisting the sun's power in Afghanistan. Ten solar generators are now providing Special Forces Soldiers in distant outposts the energy they need to accomplish their mission. And, these generators are allowing them precious more time to train Afghan forces and win the friendship of local Afghans.
U.S., Bulgarian forces train together during Allied Force 12
Nov 14, 2012
Soldiers from U.S. Army Europe and their partners from the Bulgarian Land Forces are working together at Novo Selo, Bulgaria, from Oct. 29 to Nov. 10, 2012, to certify a Bulgarian battalion as part of exercise Allied Force 12.
2 border guard posts open in Tajikistan
Nov 14, 2012
Representatives from the U.S. and Tajikistan governments celebrated the opening of two border guard posts in Sayod and Ribhoz, Tajikistan, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Nov. 6, 2012.
Remembrance Day ceremony held at Bagram Airfield
Nov 12, 2012
Approximately 300 service members gathered at the 9/11 memorial at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, to honor those who have paid the ultimate price during a Remembrance Day ceremony, Nov. 11, 2012.
USACE set to begin electricity improvement project in Helmand province
Nov 12, 2012
Afghanistan's electric company will be able to deliver more reliable electricity with fewer interruptions at the end of a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers construction project set to begin this week in Helmand province.
Service members in Afghanistan pay tribute on Veterans Day
Nov 11, 2012
While many in the United States spend time with loved ones, barbeque with friends or take time off to commemorate Veterans Day, coalition forces remain hard at work in Afghanistan supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
25th CAB medevac crew receives Australian award
Nov 1, 2012
Australian Forces at Multinational Base Tarin Kot, Afghanistan, recognized the actions of a medical evacuation crew from Company C, 3rd Battalion, 25th Aviation Regiment, Task Force Gunfighters, 25th Combat Aviation Brigade, during an awards ceremony Oct. 18, 2012
Reserve MPs take on Bagram beat one day at a time
Oct 23, 2012
Cpl. Margie Jones and Spc. Judy Sanchez, both military police officers assigned to the Army Reserve's 539th Military Police Detachment, out of Buckeye, Ariz., currently patrol sector 4 on Bagram Airfield.


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Holton Merker Matic Series Double French Horn H176 Fixed BellProduct #467975 Holton 467975 IGBB Professional Double Horns https://www.esnapw.com/rses/ESnapServlet?MerchantNumberSent=63655
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Ethel Merker Series!
The Holton Merker-Matic Series Double French Horns were developed in cooperation with Horn legend Ether Merker. The Holton Merker Series Horns feature a variety of bell designs for a variety of tonal sound and response plus heavyweight valve caps for added mass and resonance.
Design features such as its newly designed 4th branch, dual bore, and mouthpipe tapers lead professionals to claim an ease of blowing in all registers as well as an exceptionally quick response and a smooth, precise legato. It is also available as a screw bell model.
- Key of F / Bb, Pitch: A445
- .468" bore (F Side); .460" bore (Bb Side)
- 12.25" large-throat bell
Merker Matic Series Double French Horn Specifications:
- Bore: .468"
- Pitch: A445 with independent Bb tuning
- Bell: 12.25" diameter
- Key: F-Bb
Reviewed by 1 customer
Comments about Holton Merker Matic Series Double French Horn:
This horn produces a fantastic, rich resonant sound in all registers. I have been playing it for over 5 years. I am especially happy with the mid to high notes on the Bb side. The smaller bore on the Bb side seems to provide me with more control and flexibility than on my former instrument, without sacrificing projection and sound quality in any way. The other hornists in my group all play Conn 8D. I can blend with them easily, but when I want to soar above the section, no problem. My only issue is that the valves tend to be a little bit noisier than the Conn's. This wasn't true at first, and may be a simple matter for the shop tech to address. Others in my section also use a Bach #3, so the mouthpiece is not a contributor to the differences.


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How to Get Music on the Kindle
Kindles. You have to love them! But, they aren't just for books! You can surf the internet,play games and? Listen to music. Here's how.
We could really use your help!
Downloading Music?
- To skip songs press ALT & F
- To play/stop music press ALT & space bar
- To adjust the volume there should be a volume adjuster on the bottom of the Kindle. Enjoy!
Things You'll Need
- Kindle
- USB Cord
- Computer/Laptop
- Music
Article Info
Categories: Downloading Music
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 15,246 times.


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Super Rugby: Cheetahs beat Stormers 35-22 in Bloemfontein
Last Updated: 26/04/14 7:48pm
The Cheetahs leapfrog the Stormers in the Super Rugby standings after winning 35-22, despite an excellent start from the Stromers.
Cheetahs moved off the foot of the Super Rugby standings with a 35-22 victory over the Stormers at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.
Hennie Daniller, Ryno Benjamin and Willie le Roux all crossed in the first half, before Cornal Hendricks and Trevor Nyakane made sure of the bonus-point during the second period as the Cheetahs left the Stormers at the bottom of the table.
Nizaam Carr had given the Stormers an early lead but his efforts were soon cancelled out, although the visitors refused to relent as Devon Williams and Jean de Villiers both crossed in a spirited second-half comeback.
After being held up on the line in the opening minute, the Stormers took the lead in the second as Carr crossed under the posts after the visitors recycled possession well from a five-metre scrum.
Peter Grant added the conversion before extending the Stormers advantage to 10 as he slotted home his first penalty of the evening.
The Cheetahs' response was brisk as they charged down a Stormers clearing ball to race home for the opening try.
After two phases of play Le Roux's cross-field kick was collected by Daniller, who caught well to touch down the hosts' first try of the match.
The hosts went on to double their try tally moments later as Heinrich Brussow released Benjamin to charge down the flank and claim a second try, which Elgar Watts was unable to convert.
After a somewhat frenetic start to proceedings, the Cheetahs seized control of possession and drew a penalty out of the Stormers, which Watts easily converted into three points.
The Cheetahs lead was extended ahead of the break as Le Roux spotted a gaping hole in the Stormers defence to dive over the line before Watts added the extras as the hosts scored 20 unanswered points.
Deon Fourie made a strong break for the Stormers but the Cheetahs scramble back to defend before Brussow put an end to the visitors' attack with a flattening tackle.
After missing his first attempt on goal in the second half, Watts bolstered the Cheetahs advantage with his second successful penalty kick.
Stormers refused to lie down as they won a scrum in Cheetahs territory before passing down the line to Williams, who raced over the whitewash.
However, with men committed to attack the Stormers were exposed defensively as Hendricks seized on a loose ball to add a bonus-point try for the hosts, which Watts duly converted.
Nyakane crashed over four minutes from time to add a gloss to only a second Cheetahs victory of the season.
Damian de Allende released De Villiers to score a third Stormers try late on but even with Kurt Coleman's conversion, the visitors still had a 13-point deficit as the klaxon sounded.
A second win of the campaign sees the Cheetahs usurps the Stormers and take 14th place in the Super Rugby standings, leaving Allister Coetzee's side rooted at the foot of the table.
Super Rugby 2014 Round 11
Try of the Week - Round 11
A collection of the top tries from round 11 of Super Rugby.
Cheetahs weather the storm
The Cheetahs leapfrog the Stormers in the Super Rugby standings after winning 35-22, despite an excellent start from the Stromers.
Brumbies thump champs Chiefs
Brumbies thumped defending Super Rugby champions Chiefs 41-23 at Canberra Stadium on Friday.


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This department store is most commonly known for it's amazing hardware selection...But the BHV has a few new tricks up its sleeve!
The star of the bazaar is decidedly the hardware shop. In the basement of this giant shop, you can forget all about perfumes and concentrate on cars, pipes, tools, knobs and circuits!
Home repairs, yes, but that's not all. A lighting space opened up in 2007 (4th floor), and features some of the best names in lighting design: Foscarini, Flos, and Artémide. There is something for everyone with prices for all purses.
« La Niche » caters to our furry friends and opened its door in 2008 ( 42 rue de la Verrerie). The 'very important pet' idea has already hit the USA and Japan with designer clothes and accessories for the four-legged friends. There's even a spa and a psychologist to help heal the travelling blues... so don't forget Fido!