text:
Caution urged when decking the halls
Published: Sunday, December 5, 2010 at 6:01 a.m.
Last Modified: Saturday, December 4, 2010 at 11:06 p.m.
HOUMA — The holiday season approaches, and so does the potential hazards that come with decorations.
Tips from the South Louisiana Electric Cooperative Association
- Only buy lights and other electronic decorations inspected by a testing facility. Look for the label on the package.
- Inspect cords and lights closely prior to installation. Repair or replace any frayed or bare wires, loose connections and cracked or broken sockets.
- Make sure every socket as a bulb in it, whether it lights up or not.
- Don't string lights while they are plugged in.
- Do not overload outlets.
- Use flame-retardant decorations and keep paper decorations and tinsel away from hot lights.
- Limit outdoor decorations to those created for that purpose.
- Don't attach lights with staple guns. Use insulated staples instead and hammer them into place.
- Always use a dry wooden ladder when installing outdoor decorations. Dry wood won't conduct an electric current.
- Avoid overhead electrical lines when decorating outdoors.
- Unplug all decorative lights, both inside and out, when leaving home or going to bed.
Thibodaux Volunteer Fire Chief Mike Naquin said one of the most prevalent hazards during December is the improper installation and inspection of outdoor holiday lights.
"A lot of people tend to have an older house," Naquin said. "If they put up Christmas decorations, and something has started to fail, it's a big drain on the system. They may have deteriorated and can't handle the load. The next thing you know, you have a fire."
To make sure the lights don't end up overloading a breaker, do not plug all cords into one outlet.
"If you have a socket where the insulation is worn, the wires get hot and can start a small fire, leading to a big fire," Naquin said.
Houma Fire Chief Todd Dufrene said it is best to shut off lights while away from home, especially decorative outdoor ones.
Naquin and Dufrene also stressed the importance of having a properly watered Christmas tree.
"The live trees are really flammable, especially toward the end of Christmas," Dufrene said. "They dry out, and they are almost like gasoline. They go up so fast."
If you must have a real tree, Dufrene said it is important to keep the stand basin filled with water.
Bayou Cane Fire Inspector Ken Himel said he has seen people put their tree in the fireplace after the presents are unwrapped. Himel said fireplaces are not built to withstand the intense heat and large flames that will result.
Artificial trees are your best bet, the fire officials agreed, since they don't run the danger of drying out and becoming a fire hazard.
"Artificial trees are always safer," Himel said. "Some people will take a Christmas tree, decorate it and later turn it into a Mardi Gras tree. If you are going to do something that long, it's better to go with an artificial tree."
Staff Writer Eric Heisig can be reached at 857-2202 or email@example.com. Follow him on Twitter @TerrebonneCrime.
Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.


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subset: commoncrawl


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Grapeseed Oil
145 reviews
83% would repurchase
Package Quality: 3.6
Price: $$
Package Quality: 3.6
Price: $$
INGREDIENTSgrapeseed oil!
on 11/25/2011 4:56:00 PM
Age: 19-24
Skin: Normal, Olive, Not Sure
Hair: Brunette, Other, Other
Eyes: Green
First of all, I'd like to say that the reason I rated it 3 for price is because I bought organic cold pressed from Amazon, I read that it is more effective in helping to produce collagen. I bought this for my under eye area, and so far I have noticed subtle difference, but I have only been using it for over 2 weeks. I have never had issues with acne, but its normal for me to get a zit here or there or break out on my period. I have not had one zit since I have started using this, my skin has been completely clear. My skin also gets a little dry and flaky during the winter time, this is really moisturizing without being oily at all. You only need a couple drops for your face and it absorbs into your skin within minutes. I'm really happy I bought it.
on 10/26/2011 9:10:00 PM
Age: 25-29
Skin: Sensitive, Fair, Neutral
Hair: Black, Wavy, Fine
Eyes: Brown
'Now' brand: Great eye makeup remover and I use this alone for the oil cleansing method. I also use it after shower as a body moisturizer--it's light and easy to spread.
on 10/10/2011 4:19:00 AM
Age: 25-29
Skin: Combination, Tan, Not Sure
Hair: Black, Straight, Other
Eyes: Other
Bought a 20oz bottle @ Big Lots for $3.50 and I love this stuff. I use it after the shower & it absorbs quickly. Put it on my face before bed, leave it on for a while, then wet a washcloth with hot water & place on my face. My skin looks so healthy has even helped with acne/acne scars. Went back and bought more bottles since it was so cheap. Great product! It's cheaper if you buy it in the cooking oil section than the beauty section & it's the same thing. A pure all natural product without chemicals & other harmful things in it. Will continue to buy grapeseed oil!
on 9/18/2011 5:44:00 AM
Age: 19-24
Skin: Oily, Fair, Neutral
Hair: Brunette, Curly, Fine
Eyes: Green
Grapeseed oil in a nutshell is a wonder oil! :)
I use it in my own serum (1 tbsp grapeseed/ 2 tbsp jojoba oil/ 4-5 drops of lavender and tea tree). I have found that this combination for my skin has worked wonders! I have oily but fairly sensitive skin and it has cleared up some unwanted spots and redness, plus I haven't had any reactions which is something I always worry about when I put products on my skin :) (p.s. did I mention that in a couple of days people had complimented me on how fresh my skin looked.. even my boyfriend!)
I purchased grapeseed oil from a shop where I work - Holland and Barrett. It cost me a few £'s so very cheap and you do not need to use a lot. (I also got the rest of my serum ingredients from here too!) It comes in a brown 100ml plastic bottle with a screw cap lid. NOW... when it comes to oils you do not want to be messing around with bottles like this. So I purchased a glass dropper/ tincture bottle online (only a few £'s) so I could make my serum and use a few drops and prevent wasting any precious oil :)
I also use grapeseed for an eye serum too. I used a couple of tbsp of grapeseed and aloe vera. Mix it and it forms into a white paste. Put this on every night and the skin around the eyes is moistorised. Plus the aloe is really refreshing and soothing.
All in all, grapeseed is great if you have oily/ acne skin. From my expereince with it, alongside other oils, it has helped to clear up redness from spots and made my skin smoother. I would definately recommend this cheap and cheerful oil :) Hope this helps!!!!
on 9/8/2011 1:59:00 PM
Age: 19-24
Skin: Acne-prone, Fair-Medium, Warm
Hair: Black, Straight, Medium
Eyes: Black
My face is acne-prone and also does not lack sebum at all, so I do not use this as a moisturizer. I do, however, use this every night to remove my eye makeup. Bi-phase silicone removers annoy me, so I prefer just to use straight oil (now if the silicone removers didn't require shaking I would probably use them, they are less messy than oils). I massage lightly onto my lids every night and follow with cleanser.
If, however, I used a hard-to-remove sunscreen or foundation, I prefer to use a cleansing oil all over, including eyes. Grapeseed oil straight works fine too, but as a matter of personal preference I prefer how cleansing oil rinses off. (I follow with regular cleanser) But when I travel and need to pack light, I will bring a travel sized cleanser and then a little bottle of grapeseed oil
on 8/30/2011 8:15:00 AM
Age: 44-55
Skin: Acne-prone, Dark, Warm
Hair: Black, Other, Other
Eyes: Brown
I rarely use foundation because I have struggled so much with my acne prone skin. No matter the brand, it always leaves me with breakouts, probably acne and some allergies, anyway...
I use 3/4 grape seed oil with 1/4 tea tree oil mixed to remove makeup on my face and pure grape seed to remove eye makeup (the tea tree BURNS like fire if too close to the eye area!)
It does not clog my pores, and leaves not a trace of that pore clogging, skin irritating makeup. I massage it in thoroughly, then let it sit for a few minutes and wipe it away with a cotton pad. Then I reapply just to make sure that I have gotten all the traces away from my hairline, near my ears and along the jaw line/neck area. Honestly if I have done a good job the first time there is not a trace left. My pores purged a good deal of sebum over the first few days of using this, especially over my nose and around my mouth. It was like tiny white worms pushing through as I massaged. I was freaked out because I thought I had messed up all the hard work I had put in with my Obagi and VI peels (see my other reviews). But...no pimple showed up thank goodness. I follow this by using my cleanser with the Clarisonic Mia and I can tell you I have never had my skin so smooth and soft. It really bumped up my skin care regimen to a great level, and it is so much cheaper and better for me than chemical filled makeup removers for the eyes and face. It is full of antioxidants and is very soothing. I do the same thing in the morning, even using the pure grapes seed oil around the eye, because it is so nourishing.
It feels very tingly and if you have sensitive skin, the tea tree probably should be greatly reduced or even eliminated from the mix, but I have been getting peels and facials for so long that my skin is accustomed to it. I have noticed that my skin's excessive oiliness has decreased greatly, and I read somewhere that many acne prone people had worse breakouts because so many acne products are so drying the skin goes crazy trying to produce sebum to protect itself. This makes sense, because I have noticed since starting this my face is barely oily in the middle of the day. I am now one of those women who can actually use those little rice paper blotters on the nose and only use ONE and the package actually lasts more than a couple of weeks. I love this stuff!
on 8/29/2011 11:27:00 PM
Age: 44-55
Skin: Very Oily, Fair, Neutral
Hair: Brunette, Curly, Coarse
Eyes: Green
Grapeseed oil is the best! I use it as a makeup remover, a leave in hair conditioner, an overall body moisturizer - it's the most amazing stuff. It's incredibly light, nothing like olive oil - and very little goes a looong way - so only a drop or two at a time will do - remember it's oil after all!
on 8/17/2011 10:30:00 AM
Age: 30-35
Skin: Other, Fair, Not Sure
Hair: Black, Other, Other
Eyes: Green
I bought the Merlot brand at Walgreens on sale. Wasn't sure what to expect since I have oily/combo skin. I have resently started using a Clarisonic (life-changing, but another topic) so I wanted to include a weekly oil to put back into the skin some of the natural oils that were stripped from the exfoliation. Well, I use this in my at-home facial routine after steaming and extracting. I use it as a facial massage oil once a week. Love it. No frangrance. Lightweight. Let it soak in and cotton pad the extra off if its there after about 10 min. Does not cause breakouts on my breakout-proned skin.
on 8/13/2011 2:17:00 AM
Age: 19-24
Skin: Combination, Fair-Medium, Not Sure
Hair: Brunette, Other, Other
Eyes: Brown
I got a large container of la Tourangelle expeller-pressed grapeseed oil in the cooking aisle at Safeway for $10. (The ideal product to use would likely be organic, expeller or cold-pressed to avoid any harmful chemicals acquired between pesticide use and processing.) I used this as an all-over moisturizer. For my face, I rubbed a little onto my hands and patted a thin layer onto my face after washing. I agree with many people in that it gives your skin a healthy glow that you can rave about. I didn't look oily, and the fine lines at the inner corner of my eyes did slightly fade. At first, I loved it and used it as often as I could as a moisturizer.
Unfortunately, oil has a couple of drawbacks. I wear glasses and ended up with greasy lenses and glasses sliding down my nose all the time. Also, I often had at least a light trace of thin oil still on my face hours later, even with only a few drops. I like it better when I apply it to wet skin and rinse it off a bit. But my glasses still got oily. And when I started to break out with painful acne where I usually don't get acne at all, I stopped using it. I used it for about a month. I didn't like the feeling the oil gave my skin, like it couldn't breathe. I'm not sure if it wasn't the oil that made me break out. I should mention that I don't have particularly sensitive skin when it comes to products though I do get occasional acne.
Eventually, this just became too messy for me to deal with daily. I felt as though it got onto everything (clothes, glasses, sheets) because my skin didn't absorb it much.
I do think it's great as an eye makeup remover. But I prefer Pond's cold cream because the cream lets me get in between my lashes with a tissue better than the oil without getting remover in my eye.
And I definitely like this as a shaving oil. It beats shaving cream, without a doubt. Gives your legs soft, supple skin. The only bad thing about it is it makes your tub greasy. But it goes away with a couple hot showers.
I don't know about grapeseed oil's proposed benefits for the skin, like its anti-aging properties with antioxidants polyphenol and pycnogenol and astringent properties that nourish skin, lightens age spots, clears up acne, and so on. Many sites said many things, and they only mention studies rather than reference them. I'm not saying it doesn't work at all, just that we don't know how or how well it does. I get the impression eating it may be even more beneficial than putting it on your skin. It does a great job as a direct skin-moisture protectant though. :D
I give it a 3.5!
on 8/7/2011 10:12:00 AM
Age: 30-35
Skin: Combination, Fair, Not Sure
Hair: Red, Other, Other
Eyes: Blue
I bought an enormous bottle of grapeseed oil at Whole Foods and have been using it on my face and body since then. I use it to moisturize my skin, remove makeup, and cleanse my face. I haven't tried it on my hair because my hair is fine and long, so I think the oil may weigh it down.
To clean my face, I dampen a cotton round, then apply the oil and exfoliate my face with it. This works well for me because If I wash my skin too often, even though it's oily, the surface becomes dry, so this oil is great for keeping my skin balanced if I need to wash my skin more than once or twice a day.
And I night, I pat this oil on my skin and around my eyes, and it doesn't burn or cause blemishes, no matter the condition of my skin. Very versatile product.
Popular Face Skincare Products


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The Army Navy football game: United we stand, divided we play
By Jeremy Branham on Dec 03, 2012 with Comments 10
I was freezing as the wind and cold cut through my gloves and jacket. Snipers were all around me. However, it didn't matter. I had goose bumps and shared the same space as President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden. Welcome to the Army Navy football game.
Last year, I had the chance to experience this game in person. Sitting in the first row of FedEx Field just outside of Washington DC, I could see the sweat dripping (or maybe they were icicles) off the Army players as they warmed up before the game.
On the field, the Army Navy football rivalry is one of the most intense in all of college football. Before the game, after the game, and in life, you may not find two opponents who respect and help each other more.
Regardless of how you feel about military or war, there is a special respect and awe when it comes to the football players at West Point and the Naval Academy. The Army Navy football game, this rivalry, and these kids have a story you need to experience.
Army Navy football history
Going into the 2012 game, Navy leads Army in the series 56-49-7 in the all time series. However, this game is more than just a winning team. Along with Air Force, the teams play each other for the Commanders-in-Chief trophy.
The game began in 1890 as the two schools wanted to establish bragging rights. Today, it's become one of the most iconic, respected games in football history.
Army and Navy have enjoyed football success in the past. Both have won college football national championships. However, military service has limited most of the participants from going on to NFL careers. Navy's Roger Staubach and Napoleon McCallum saw success in the NFL as well as Navy basketball player David Robinson.
However, this game really isn't about a player or team as much as it is the institutions. Since 1963, the United States Military Academy (aka West Point or Army) and the United States Naval Academy have entered this match up with winning records twice (1996 and 2010).
However, the Army Navy football game is one where you can truly throw the records out the window.
Life at a military service academy
Last year, I had the chance to tour the US Naval Academy and was on hand for the annual game ball run leading up to the Army Navy football game. Annapolis felt like home as I watched a sea of black uniforms and white hats pumped up by the 13th company dressed in fatigues carrying a football.
However, life at both academies isn't easy. Students (or Cadets at Army, Midshipman at Navy) wake up at 5 or 6 am, make their beds, eat breakfast, and have every minute of their day structured. Every student participates in a sport, has a few hours of study hall, and goes to bed each night around midnight.
College students at these academies work harder, sacrifice, and give more than any college student in the country.
Army Navy football traditions
A few hours before the game, I stand in line for the metal detector at FedEx Field. With snipers on the roof, all precautions are taken with the President Barack Obama at the game.
Arriving three hours early, I spot the CBS crew a couple of sections over from me and walk over to listen to the pre-game conversation. I chatted with former Naval Academy and West Point graduates working in the highest levels of government (including the Pentagon).
Two hours before game time, the members of each academy march onto the field before taking their respective places in the stands. Watching every Cadet and Midshipman march onto the field, I stood with respect and awe. I loved college but couldn't do what they do. Nor did I serve our country overseas in the military.
While there isn't a lot of pageantry as each academy comes on the field, watching their faces and thinking of their sacrifices gave me time to reflect. This may only be a football game but to them, this is their chance to let their hair down (whatever hair they still have on their heads).
As black and gray dress coats fill the stands, the President and Vice President walk onto the field for the pre-game ceremonies. For the first time in history, the Army Navy football game is taking place in the nation's capital, Washington DC.
Throughout 60 minutes of football, they pound each other, run, tackle, and play for pride, academy, and bragging rights. After the football game, they stand side by side on the field and around the world supporting and fighting for the USA.
At the end of each game, both teams stand at the respective end zones as the band plays the alma mater for each school. While both schools want to win, there may not be a more respected rivalry on and off the field than the Army Navy football game.
Travel Tips for the Army Navy football game
If you want to check out an Army Navy football game, here are a few travel tips and game day information for this college football rivalry.
Where: Last year was the first time the game was ever played near the nation's capital. Now the game returns to its normal location, Philadelphia, through 2015.
When: This game gets a day all to itself – the second Saturday in December. It's the only regular season college football game played that day. Dress warmly as the games are often cold in the northeast.
Travel: In early and mid December, you can find some cheap flights to Philadelphia for the game as this is the offseason travel period. For flight, hotel, and car packages, find deals on Expedia.
Tickets: My seat on the first row cost me $240 two weeks prior to the game. Find tickets on StubHub or eBay a few weeks before the game up until game time for the best deals with prices as low as $50.
Game day Information: The Army Navy football game is played every year at 2:30 pm EST so arrive early, talk to fans, and watch the Cadets and Midshipman march onto the field. Before you go to the game, watch the Army Navy spirit videos or search for them on YouTube (search Army Navy spirit spots). These are entertaining, hilarious, and well done. Stick around after the game as Army and Navy pay respects to both schools.
For me, experiencing the Army Navy football game was one of the best college football experiences I've ever had. Divided they play but united we all stand for Army and Navy.
For more college football travel guides, check out Expedia's College Football page and get more stories on college football rivalries ((including Oregon/Oregon State, Oklahoma/Texas, South Carolina/Clemson, and more) and my experiences at college football games and campuses all over the country on the College Football Travel Tour page.
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Filed Under: College Football Travel Tour • Featured • US Naval Academy • West Point/Army
Comments (10)
I shall be sitting down to watch the 8pm UK time. Looking forward to it as I love these sporting traditions.
These pics are excellent!
Now this would be a fun game to attend! A friend from high school went to West Point and I remember his stories of the game
I'm not a big fan of American football, but yes after seeing your photos and reading this post I could spend a few hours there :):) and I would probably love it.


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I'm doing a video show series on how the Lakers can will the NBA title this coming year. My two most recent shows address the Lakers biggest strength. Their big men. The show on Pau is here. Dwight is here. It's actually been their biggest strength for a while now. Back in the day it was the combination of Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom and an occasional Andrew Bynum. Pau and Lamar played great together and helped define Laker basketball during the 2008-2011 run even more than Kobe. Laker fans liked the idea of a healthy Bynum, but in reality the Lakers were better with him on the bench, at least when it mattered. Last season, which was doomed from the start, featured Pau and Bynum together at last for a full season. Bynum and Pau were very effective but the Lakers team was their worst in years. Bynum became an all-star and cemented his status as the second best center in basketball. Pau was moved to Power forward full time where he settled more and more for jumpers but still managed to do everything very well to great (Pau was worthy of an all-star selection last year but was snubbed in favor of his brother Marc). The Laker's problems last year steamed from their terrible supporting cast. They relied on their three stars for everything and couldn't get past the mighty Thunder in the playoffs. Bynum was shipped out for Dwight Howard after a career year. Dwight Howard is still a major upgrade though. Bynum can match Dwight when it comes to offensive production or at least come close. He can score and rebound well and has better post moves. But Dwight destroys Bynum in defense and athleticism. Dwight is the best defensive player in the NBA while Bynum is just pretty good. Bynum is younger but moves much, much older. Dwight can run the floor as well as any big man. Bynum may have a better traditional back to the basket skillet, but Dwight is significantly better scoring off the pick and roll. Dwight is one of the best pick and roll finishers in the game and has one of the best operators in Steve Nash on his team. Dwight's post moves are awkward looking but they work for the most part. The gap between Dwight and Bynum is the same as between Lebron and the rest of the league. Bigger than you'd think. Dwight may be the second best player in the league (Kevin Durant, Chris Paul, and even Dwayne wade also have good cases). Nash is a nice pick up for LA but Dwight is the main reason they will be title contenders. Yes, Dwight is the Lakers best player. Kobe is the Man in name only. For the Lakers to beat the Thunder and the Heat Dwight has to play like the Man. The biggest question mark for Dwight will be his health. His back injury was no joke. Dwight wants to play opening day but may be better off waiting a little longer. Opening day doesn't really matter to the Lakers; they need him down the stretch and completely healthy.
Dwight will play alongside the man who outplayed him in his only Finals appearance in 2009, Pau Gasol. Gasol again will play a bit out of position at Power Forward. Pau played well last year and had good chemistry with Bynum. I expect Pau to develop the same kind of chemistry with Dwight. Pau will hit Dwight with alley-opps for sure. Bynum wasn't too good at getting Pau back, though hopefully Dwight will be an improvement. Pau played a lot out of the high post where he's good but not great. I feel like he may be more effective there this season because the Lakers have more offensive weapons and Pau will have more open looks from there. Pau is money is open from there but struggles when he has to put the ball on the floor. Pau has more three-point shooters to hit in Steve Nash and Jodie Meeks as well. Mike Brown promised Pau more looks in the low post as well. That was before the Lakers got Dwight. To take full advantage of Pau's skills the Lakers have to get him the ball in the low post more often. Obviously there is some overlap with Dwight much as there was with Bynum but the hope is the at Dwight is more versatile than Bynum and Pau can get more low post love. Another hope is that Pau can play center with the second unit to get touches down low. That is a strategy that failed last season because the Lakers reserves were so bad that Pau (or Drew) were doubled teamed hard every time they got the ball and were forced to pass to subpar three point shooters time and time again. The Laker reserves have bigger names and are better overall than last year and there is potential for Pau to be on the floor with at least one other star player at all times. Out of the Laker's best four players I expect Pau to get the most minutes due to his versatility and unselfishness. If the Lakers get the most out of their star big men The Heat and Thunder may have no answer for them and the small ball reign will end after one season.


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What your up to is called dragging the shutter. Once you have the main flash worked out, you drag the shutter with a longer shutter speed for the background exposure. This is a pretty basic studio thing to do, depending. It's also possible to second curtain the flash synch with subjects in very dark conditions. A low ISO film would be prudent here as it will build foreground exposure slowly causing less subject movement exposure. Most standard photo books cover this.
To understand what you want to do, figure a reflected meter reading will give you a zone 5 exposure for the background. If your aperture is set at say F8 and at 15ft for the flash exposure according to a guide number, you'll find the amount of difference between foreground and background in the shutter speed settings when using a manual flash; Think studio flash here as it's easier to understand. A ttl flash model will just increase the flash output compared to a nuts and bolts, this is what your getting out of me manual flash. Hypothetically, if the flash synch for this picture is 1/60 at F8 according to your meter for the group exposure and the medium zone 5 back ground exposure is 1/15 at F8 , your going to be 2 stops down in exposure on the background at 1/60th. So where does that put you with your film latitude and what your trying to record? Probably pretty good if you have brightspots in the sky. Sometimes as I mentioned above what you want to do is second curtain the flash, expose for the background placing it where you need it and then flashing the main subjects in TTL. The best way to figure it all out is to test. Since it's a wedding, a half black, and half detailed white test board would be great to use. If you can stick it in the ground use a 5ft tall stake and a peice of painted cardboard. Try using NPZ. For all accounts most rate it at a 1/3 to a 1/2 stop down in speed. Say ISO 640 or even 520, and it will boost contrast a little too.


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Inclusivity In Your Community Can't Wait
Society is changing. The US Supreme Court ruled on June 26th that states cannot ban same-sex marriage. This is just the latest example. As a society, we're becoming more inclusive, and less tolerant of bigotry. The internet has brought people together in new ways and exposed us all to new and diverse points of view. Over the coming years, businesses will be divided into those that were able to adapt to this changing culture and those that fell behind. It's crucial to the long term health of your brand and business that your community strategy keeps inclusivity in mind.


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Bob and Lauren Bullock are chasing their dream, a family-owned, dirt to bottle, artisanal-quality winery called Haystack Needle. One of their wines, The Eye, is my go-to beverage when I want a good stout red. It's a blend of Red Mountain and Columbia Valley Merlot, Cabernet, Malbec and Syrah. The nose is black-fruited, deep and carries menthol notes I find in more expensive Cabernet. The mouth is medium-bodied with penetrating fruit and a lovely tannic grip. Great length and finish. Costs about $15.
-- Mike McVittie reviews wines available locally
Mike McVittie


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The high school graduation season is underway, and numerous area high schools are holding their commencement ceremonies over the next few days. School districts with graduation ceremonies today (FRI) include: New Ulm and Wabasso. High schools holding their graduation on Sunday include: Minnesota Valley Lutheran, Martin Luther in Northrop, Red Rock Central, Redwood Valley, and Sleepy Eye St. Mary's. The Riverbend Education District in New Ulm held their graduation earlier this week as well. New Ulm Public's graduation will be live on the internet over the SAM 107-3 stream on knuj.net beginning at 7pm today, and will then be broadcast on 860AM-KNUJ at 7pm Sunday. The MVL graduation will be streamed live on the SAM stream on knuj.net at 2pm Sunday, and will then be aired on KNUJ at 7pm Monday.
Local Area Graduations This Week


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Checking in at Drug Court
Some move on while others suffer missteps
BOONVILLE, Ind. - The 26-year-old Newburgh man faced three years in prison for three DUIs if he didn't enroll in Drug Court. He must wear an electronic ankle bracelet that registers when he drinks alcohol.
His father, Hilario, owns Los Bravos restaurants in Evansville, Boonville, Jasper and Loogootee, Ind. Ayala-Bravo works at the Warrick County location.
In high school, it wasn't unusual for him to drink a 12-pack in a day. After dropping out of Castle High School during his junior year, he became addicted to cocaine and pain pills.
The man who has led police on several high-speed chases has been clean for 11 months.
"Every morning I pray to God to relieve me of my obsessions," he said. "At night, I get on my knees and thank him for another good day."
He recently celebrated a birthday.
"That used to be the signal for me to go on a two-day drunk," he said. "My family would say to be home at 6 p.m. for the party, and I wouldn't get there until 4 in the morning. I was so drunk the balloons were blurry."
Ayala-Bravo and his girlfriend recently moved into an apartment.
"What can I say?" he said. "Life is getting better."
The native of Perry County, Ind., used methamphetamine on a regular basis for almost 10 years. In 2008, the mother of two was caught with a .25 gram of meth within 1,000 feet of a school. She faced 20 years in jail unless she enrolled in an anti-drug program.
Her father, David, grew marijuana for resale and served two years in prison. Her mother, Donna, had problems with alcohol.
Meredith shares a house in Boonville with Adam Stewart, a friend who once used drugs with her and has quit.
She said she rarely paid more than $50 a week for drugs.
"I probably had a circle of 40 people I thought were my friends who were using," she said. "Sometimes I'd get some Sudafed and exchange that precursor for meth."
She's on food stamps and doesn't have a bank account.
"I weigh 155, and that's 45 more than when I was on the drug," she said. "I'm healthier now."
Participation in Warrick County Drug Court often is the last chance for people with alcohol- and drug-related offenses to avoid prison.
Janet Meredith has been off methamphetamine since enrolling in Drug Court in December. The 31-year-old woman was so hooked on the drug that she sometimes went six days without food.
Jose Ayala-Bravo has three DUI convictions. Not even the overdose death of his brother, Francisco, could make him stop abusing drugs and alcohol.
But since joining the Drug Court program in June, he has been one of the project's success stories and has appeared before several school groups.
The Warrick County Drug Court was started in 2005 by Superior Court Judge Keith Meier. The three-phase project monitors offenders for a minimum of 18 months and a maximum of three years. People with alcohol-related offenses also are included in the program, which convenes every other Thursday afternoon at the Judicial Center.
The first phase is the most rigorous. Offenders must report to the court every day for testing and must attend daily Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous meetings.
Typically, about 50 men and women are enrolled at any given time.
In an occasional series, the Courier & Press will follow the paths of Meredith and Ayala-Bravo through Drug Court as they attempt to put their lives back together.
This session of Drug Court begins ominously when Meier informs the group that three people have been dismissed for violating the rules.
"They put your freedom in jeopardy," he said, scowling. "Somebody who doesn't like this program and has some power can have this project terminated, and you go to prison. They definitely didn't do you any favors by their actions."
In a process that sometimes takes more than three hours, Meier calls each person to the front of the courtroom for an informal progress check while he reviews caseworker reports.
The judge tells the first young man he's in trouble.
"We sent you a 911 page today, and you didn't answer," Meier said. Drug Court enrollees are subject to such random calls. They have an hour to respond.
The participant claims his pager wasn't working, but Meier isn't buying it. A deputy is called, and the young man is taken to jail.
The judge introduces Susan, the newest member of Drug Court. She tells the group she's been an addict "for a very, very long time."
A middle-aged man is called front and center. He tells Meier he landed a job at a turkey-processing plant that pays $10.05 an hour.
"The only bad thing is that my hands are hurting from lifting the same tools over and over," he said.
Meier asks one enrollee when his family's baby is due. He asks another if he's still having trouble at home.
One enrollee's mother has a history of mental illness. The judge wants to know how she's doing.
"The point is not how much jail time you are missing by being in this program," the judge explains. "Being scared of prison won't do it in the long run. You must internalize the messages we're sending."
At the end of almost every chat, Meier asks the enrollee if there's anything he can do to help. "Give us a million dollars," somebody calls out from the back. Laughter all around.
"The check's in the mail," Meier replies.
One man wants to know if it's all right to take Sudafed for his allergies.
"Not all right," the judge answers. "That's what is used to make meth, and it will show up on the meter. Find something else to take."
Several of the participants are asked to share advice for Susan.
"Get into a set routine," one suggests.
"The staff is cool," another says. "But always be honest with them."
When it's Ayala-Bravo's turn, he shows Meier the chip he was given on the date of his 11th month of sobriety.
"We're really proud of you, Jose," Meier said.
When Meredith comes up, the judge wants to know if she's found a job.
"I had an interview with Goodwill, but the lady said they don't usually hire people with convictions," she said. "She said she would talk with her supervisor, but I never got a call back. I'm still trying, though."
One class Meredith takes is about how to prevent relapses.
"Tell me something you've learned," Meier said.
"That I have to know my triggers," she said. "Mine are boredom and wanting to connect with old friends."
"And do you connect with those old friends who used drugs?"
Meredith shakes her head no.
"Good for you," Meier said. "Keep it up. We believe in you."
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So would anyone be interested in doing a gaming podcast?
By kishinfoulux 66 Comments
Wasn't sure whether to ask this in the forums or not so decided to just make a blog about it. But yeah the title says it all. I don't really have any ideas in terms of structure, how many people, a name, when to record, etc. I guess that's something that can be figured out as a group. I'd prefer something not super serious. I just wanna talk games and have a good time. So yeah not sure what else needs to be mentioned. I guess just ask if you wanna know anything or whatever.


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United States
Show all reviews
Bois Farine by L'Artisan Parfumeur
A bit of a different style from L'Artisan, a change of pace from all the spicy and incensy stuff. Bois Farine opens with an extremely pleasant and different aroma. It's powdery, sweet in a slightly gourmand way. Kind of reminds me of some sort of cracker. It has a nutiness too, and somewhat of a creamy vanilla smell. I wanna say there's citrus there too, but I'm not so sure. After researching the 'fennel seed' note, one that I'm not familiar with, it turns out that this is what I'm smelling.
14th April, 2011


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Chris Evans And Chris Pratt Visit Seattle Children's Hospital
Posted by staff in Mar 09,2015 with No Comments
You might have thought that Chris Evans and Chris Pratt just played superheroes in the movies, but you would have been wrong. These guys really are superheroes.
After making the best Super Bowl bet ever, Captain America and Star-Lord decided that there would be no losers. In the original bet, Evans was supposed to visit Seattle Children's Hospital if the Seattle Seahawks won, and Pratt was supposed to visit Christopher's Haven in New England if the New England Patriots won.
After the Patriots won, Pratt quickly honored his portion of the bet and made a trip to Christopher's Haven as Star-Lord with Chris Evans. And Evans announced that the duo would be visiting Seattle Children's Hospital as well. [Source]


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JOHN BOEHNER: Well, clearly, the -- the debt limit allow -- increasing the debt limit allows our government to meet its obligations. And I think that -- there are multiple options for how you deal with it. But -- for -- our team, I think we're gonna have to demonstrate -- that we've got to have reductions in spending. The government's spending more than what we bring in. We can't afford it.
DIANE SAWYER: But -- you would have to reduce by a trillion dollars to cover what the debt limit elevation would take care of?
JOHN BOEHNER: We're not quite sure when the -- when we're going to face -- this increase in the debt -- debt limit. But when we do -- we'll be ready to meet our obligations.
DIANE SAWYER: One more question about an issue which is health care, as we know. Our exit polling seemed to show that people were pretty divided, about 48 percent said they wanted repeal, about 47 percent said they either wanted it the way it is or even expanded. Is this a mandate to repeal?
JOHN BOEHNER: I don't know if I would call it a mandate -- but I believe -- that Obamacare will ruin the best health care system in the world. And I believe it'll bankrupt our country. And I believe many of my colleagues and new colleagues believe the same. As a result, we believe that it's important to repeal Obamacare and replace it with common sense --
DIANE SAWYER:How sure are you -- you'll get a repeal, a full out repeal of health care?
JOHN BOEHNER: I'm pretty confident -- that -- come next year, we will have the votes to repeal -- that bill. And to replace it with commonsense reforms to bring down the cost of health insurance and expand access.
DIANE SAWYER:I wanted to talk a little bit about your new members coming in. We've been hearing all the commentators say it's gonna be like herding unherdable -- unherdable stampede. It's going to be corralling people. It's really gonna be hard for you, they say, to get these new independent, many of them first time, many of them never worked in government before. To get these people on board.
JOHN BOEHNER: Listen, I heard my constituents -- during this election cycle. I know they heard their constituents. I was -- been in many of their districts. I've talked to their constituents. As long as we're listening to the American people, and abiding by the will of the American people and the Constitution -- I don't -- I think that brings people together, as opposed to dividing them.
DIANE SAWYER: But is it gonna be complicated? What -- what -- you -- you're a management expert. What's the managerial lesson for dealing with -- with what's going to arise?
JOHN BOEHNER: Growing up with 11 brothers and sisters. And working in my dad's bar. All the lessons I learned growing up are the lessons I need to do my job. He grew up in a big family. Have to learn to get along with each other. Learn to get things done together, get things done as a family. And you grow up around a bar like I did, mopping floors and doing dishes, waiting tables. Tendin' bar. You learn to deal with every character that walks in the door. Trust me, all the skills I learned growing up are the skills I need to do my job.
DIANE SAWYER: I have to ask you about Sarah Palin, because today she put out an ad which basically -- basically indicates that she, the party -- the people she endorsed are the ones to celebrate this victory. And I'm just gonna play short excerpts of it. In case you didn't see it.


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Results 1 to 5 of 5
Thread: Two little concept pieces
August 24th, 2004 #1
Two little concept pieces
I've been doing some work for one of my classes involving a video game concept. I posted on here before with a pic of a guy coming out of a ships hull. But for those who missed that one, the game takes place on a WWII destroyed used in The Philadelphia experiment. Should be enough info so you know where i'm coming from.
The first is a sketch i colored up in photoshop. I was trying to use a fast fall off and really focus on the position of the light source. I kept the edges real sharp so i could tweak the colors later. I'll need a few different renditions for the final project. (i think he looks like my grandfather)
The second is one i did entirelly in painter. Not many clean lines in this one, i'm hoping to go back and touch it up and add alot more content. That and the character's neck is breaking. But i kind of like the lighting.
Crits and comments welcome and appreciated as always.
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Hide this ad by registering as a memberAugust 24th, 2004 #2
Hey there!
Nice images and i can see they have an idea behind them.
I like the choice for the crisp shadow in the first image, and the idea to make this guy a fat guy, we see too many superheroes already!
What could be improved is the anatomy (the guy'sright arm most notably) and the way he 'stands' on the ground, he seems to float a little right now. I also would like to see some detail in the background, even if it's really dark there could be some color/value shapes in there or some reflections, just to hint the presence of them and make the pic less flat. The tubes to the right are an example, do more of that, even more vague maybe, in the background. Also with a bright lightsource, he should have a shadow on the ground since it's coming from above. So: dark background, lighter midground, and add some dark silhouette foreground shapes to have three layers in the picture.
Second picture: why did you not finish this picture? Now it is hard to crit... Unless this is a WIP. Come to think of it, the first one has this outline toolbox shape in the pic. Try to work on the entire detail level of the image at once, in stead of detailing one area and kepping another area unprocessed, that way it's easier to stop working on the image at a certain moment since everything has had an equal amount of attention.
Please post your progress!
Power is nothing without intelligence.
August 24th, 2004 #3
Cool idea, doing a game on the Philadelphia experiment. I'm wondering why these fellows don't have uniforms on, as the people involved were all navy personnel? Just curious about that. I'm assuming this is a wip, so won't crit on the ship or anything yet, as a lot would depend on what state the ship is in. Is it fading out? Coming back or nothing has happened yet? It will be really interesting watching this one come together.
Art gives me a life of extreme challenge, frustration, accomplishment and contentment. Nothing less will do!
August 24th, 2004 #4
Hey, thanks to both of you for the replys and crits. To Erik; yeah that right arm was a killer and i knew it didn't look right when i finished it up. I think i'm going to tweak the pencil lines in photoshop, maybe just cleaning it up will help it out. I also agree that the figure is floating, after i posted i realized i should have had some sort of affect; shadow, glow, etc. On the second piece i'm not quite advanced enough in paint to get the detail i would like but i'll try my best.
To Nikia; i'm glad you like the idea. I think it's a cool piece of conspiracy theory that is pretty foggy so you can pretty much fill in the holes you want and make a cool story. As far as the characters clothing i wanted the first guy, or both guys rather to be involved in the bowels in the ship. Down in the diry work. So they don't exactly go by the book. Also sailors don't really wear their dress unis while they're on duty.
August 24th, 2004 #5
ok as i'm a newb i always pick my crits polite ..(but i always end up sounding like a complete asshole )
i'll give you detailed crits on what looks wrong and what looks good as im a realy bad critter on overal look ...
pic 1 : the basic lightning is done good , N1 NO is a black bg ! even if you dont have any ideas just trow horizon and some walls in .. now anotomy : his right hand as mentioned before is kinda screwd up and it has no wrist , left hand got a wrist but it looks realy messy , his biceps looks like they are hanging on his arm ... his face i like alot , proportion are correct and i can see that he is actualy around 40-60 years old ...now that fire thingy he got in his arm .. it got some weird perspective ..
pic 2 : perspective is correct so is position of you character in the picture .. but its realy a wip so kinda hard to say more ...
plz dont kill me for being asshole .. its just if i do finished works thats kinda crits im looking for myself ...


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Ricki Herbert claims FIFA World Cup™ group opponents Slovakia, Italy and Paraguay will underestimate New Zealand at their peril in South Africa.
The All Whites departed for the tournament on Saturday ready for their first taste of the FIFA World Cup since 1982.
After a last-gasp defeat to Australia in Melbourne, a decent build-up in Europe where they beat Serbia 1-0 and battled hard in a 3-1 loss to Slovenia, coach Herbert is left feeling buoyant about their chances.
I think we're punching above our weight now and it's great. It's consistent. If anybody wants to take us lightly at the World Cup then good luck to them.
If we can keep the percentage of chances coming and increase the percentages of those hitting the back of the net then it will certainly stand us in good stead."
Friday's defeat in Maribor highlighted areas New Zealand still need to work on - their defensive work at set-pieces and their finishing skills. Slovenia's first two goals came from excellent free-kicks by Milivoje Novakovic, while a goalkeeping blunder by Mark Paston handed Andraz Kirm a simple third.
At the other end the New Zealanders created several opportunities but only had a 20th-minute goal by Rory Fallon to their credit when the final whistle went.
"Whether they were free-kicks or not, and we can argue that, the reality is people at this level are going to punish you. We can do better there," said Herbert.
"We also just need to be much more clinical. We probably had four or five goal-scoring opportunities and we took one of them. If we can keep the percentage of chances coming and increase the percentages of those hitting the back of the net then it will certainly stand us in good stead."
New Zealand have just one training match against Chile - a game that will be played over three 30-minute periods - ahead of their opener against Slovakia on 15 June.


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Kobe Bryant Reveals The Greatness Of Other NBA Legends
Kobe Bryant should be celebrated. It's a reminder how great Jordan and Chamberlain were, and how amazing LeBron and Durant have been so far.
Tuck: Active NBA Players Holding Scoring Records
LeBron James is one of nine active players who own a franchise scoring record. And LeBron is one of two players that own two franchise scoring records!
Sacramento Game To Be Tested By Guinness Tonight
The Sacramento Kings game will be tested tonight by Guinness for indoor sound record.
Tuck: Random NBA Records
Stephen Curry put on a show in NY last night, but he barely missed out on several records you may not know about.


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Advocates for the decriminalization of marijuana could be on a real high in November if Nevada voters take the first step toward legalizing the drug in the state, but even supporters of the measure don't expect it to go through without a fight from Washington.
The initiative, which would have to be passed again by the state's voters in 2004, would not only legalize possession and private use of up to three ounces of marijuana for persons 21 and older, it would authorize the state to regulate the growth, distribution and sale of the drug, much the way it regulates tobacco and alcohol.
The initiative, an amendment to the state constitution, could result in pot being sold in smoke shops, pharmacies or coffee shops, and the state would be authorized to put a tax on marijuana sales, as it does on alcohol and tobacco. Public consumption would still be a ticketable offense, just as the public consumption of alcohol is.
It would still be a criminal offense to sell marijuana without a license, or for anyone to sell pot to anyone under 21 years of age.
Though Ohio has already decriminalized possession of up to 100 grams — a little more than three ounces of marijuana — the Nevada initiative represents a major step forward for advocates of change in the nation's drug laws, such as the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, because of the move to create state regulation.
Even laws legalizing medicinal marijuana passed by a dozen states have stopped short of creating state-regulated distribution systems, which has left people for whom pot has been prescribed and groups that have tried to provide them with marijuana open to confrontation with federal authorities that oppose the programs.
Confrontation With the Feds?
That is also the aspect of the measure that is likely to put the state at odds with the U.S. Justice Department, if it passes, just as the legalization of marijuana for chemotherapy patients and people suffering from glaucoma, and the authorization of doctors to prescribe it in several states has run afoul of federal authorities.
"If they were hostile to sick and dying patients getting it, it's not hard to guess what their position would be regarding healthy people 21 years old and up getting and using it for for non-medical purposes," NORML Executive Director Allen St. Pierre said.
Ethan Nadelmann, executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance, which supports decriminalizing marijuana, said the federal government has been sending mixed messages about whether it would take action against the state if Nevada voters approve the measure. He compared the current situation with marijuana to the early 1930s, when states made alcohol legal before Washington repealed prohibition.
"I think the biggest question is whether the federal government is going to prioritize challenging a law that state law enforcement is supporting," DPA Deputy Director of Legal Affairs Judy Appel said. "If this passes, it means the people of Nevada have supported it twice. The question has to be about priorities."
A spokesman for the DEA said there would be no waffling on the agency's part, and that if the measure passes federal agents would go after businesses in Nevada that sell marijuana regardless of whether they are in compliance with state laws, just as they have gone after groups that distribute medicinal marijuana to patients with prescriptions in California.


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Agreement Would Narrow Suit Over Kansas Abortion Law
Posted: 08/09/2013 - Lawyers filed an agreement Friday in U.S. District Court about how parts of a new state abortion law will be enforced.
Posted: 08/09/2013 - Lawyers filed an agreement Friday in U.S. District Court about how parts of a new state abortion law will be enforced.
Updated: 08/07/2013 - Crews installing new copper on the Statehouse dome should reach the top in the next ten days, with finishing work to follow. Scaffolding should start coming down in October.
Posted: 08/05/2013 - Gov. Sam Brownback isn't legally required to make his appointment to the Kansas Court of Appeals until Aug. 29.
Posted: 08/02/2013 - Senate Minority Leader Anthony Hensley said Friday that he wants Gov. Brownback to nominate his pick for the Kansas Court of Appeals by Aug. 9. The deadline set by state law is Aug. 29.
Posted: 07/31/2013 - A report Wednesday from the Department of Revenue says July's revenue figures were boosted by strong sales tax collections, which were $9.1 million higher than expected.
Posted: 07/31/2013 - Independence Republican Jeff King chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee. King said Wednesday he's planning a confirmation hearing for the yet-to-be-named Appeals Court judge when the special session opens Sept. 3.
Posted: 07/30/2013 - Anti-abortion groups are pushing for a vote during the special session on a measure that would prohibit abortions when doctors can detect a fetal heartbeat.
Updated: 07/29/2013 - Senate Minority Leader Anthony Hensley said Monday that Gov. Sam Brownback called a special session to gain quick approval of a coming appointment to the state Court of Appeals and avoid scrutiny of his nominee.
Updated: 07/26/2013 - In the interest of protecting public safety and in response to a request from Attorney General Derek Schmidt, Governor Sam Brownback will call the Legislature into special session at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 3.
Updated: 07/24/2013 - Attorney General Derek Schmidt says a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision raised questions about the constitutionality of the Kansas "Hard 50" law.
Posted: 07/23/2013 - House Republican Steven Becker had introduced legislation to repeal the death penalty statute and sought an audit of its costs.
Posted: 07/12/2013 - Chief Judge Kathryn Vratil set a July 29 date to reschedule a hearing in a lawsuit over the state's new abortion law.
Posted: 07/09/2013 - Gov. Sam Brownback's spokeswoman Eileen Hawley said Tuesday the Republican governor had not made a final decision on releasing the names of Court of Appeals applicants.
Updated: 07/08/2013 - A new law passed this year is a move to speed up cases in the Shawnee County court system.
Updated: 07/08/2013 - The Topeka and Shawnee Co. Public Library board must decide whether it wants to make required security upgrades or change policy to allow licensed concealed weapons on its property.
Updated: 07/02/2013 - Former Rep. Arlen Siegfreid began work Tuesday as the chief hearing officer for the Kansas Court of Tax Appeals, the same day the Olathe Republican's resignation from the Legislature was effective.
Updated: 06/30/2013 - A federal judge in Kansas has refused to temporarily block a new state law requiring that abortion provider websites link to a state site with information the providers dispute.
Posted: 06/27/2013 - Shawnee County District Judge Rebecca Crotty heard arguments Thursday in a lawsuit filed by Drs. Herbert Hodes and Dr. Traci Nauser over the state's new abortion law.
Posted: 06/26/2013 - Chief Judge Kathryn Vratil heard arguments Wednesday in a lawsuit by Planned Parenthood over the state's new abortion law. Vratil said she would decide soon whether to issue a temporary restraining order blocking enforcement of the disputed sections.
Updated: 06/26/2013 - A new Kansas law taking effect Monday allows people with concealed-carry permits to bring their guns into public buildings that don't have adequate security, such as screening.
Posted: 06/24/2013 - Chief Judge Kathryn Vratil has scheduled a hearing Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Kan. on a lawsuit over the state's new abortion law.
Posted: 06/24/2013 - Planned Parenthood wants a judge to block enforcement of the provisions of a new abortion law while the lawsuit challenging it is heard.
Posted: 06/21/2013 - Dr. Herbert Hodes and his daughter, Dr. Traci Nauser, filed their lawsuit over the state's new abortion law Friday in Shawnee County District Court.
Updated: 06/20/2013 - Sen. Forrest Knox, R-Altoona, held a news conference Thursday to clear up what he says are misconceptions about the new concealed carry law. Knox supports the measure.
Updated: 06/20/2013 - A Planned Parenthood clinic and its medical director are challenging parts of a new Kansas abortion law that takes effect next month.


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Whether you're dining in or just want to relive that crazy night in Tokyo, Miya's dishware will transport you to the Land of the Rising Sun without the pricey plane ticket. The interiors of these Sepia Bowls are covered in a different ornate, yet complementary motif. Made in Japan, the ceramic dishes are just the right size for a snack-sized serving of wasabi peas.
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Lake Street Emporium
121 W. Lake St.
Lake Mills Wisconsin 53551United States
(920) 648-5511
Editor's Review
Midwest Living Recommends
This pleasant downtown shop offers a variety of antiques and affordable gifts, plus beautiful handmade baptismal gowns.
The Lake Street Emporium in Lake Mills, Wisconsin, offers beautiful displays of antiques, collectibles and new gift items including French soaps ($5-$12), jewelry, china and greeting cards. Owner Mary Ellen makes beautiful baptismal gowns ($100) using old and new material, but you can find unique, special gifts for under $25 here. It is also the downtown outlet for James J. Chocolates, whose main shop and factory is actually in a business park outside town.


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223 Reviews
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44 of 49 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars ...Like Clockwork - QOTSA
I have never written a review on Amazon (or anywhere else for that matter) but I feel compelled to write on for QOTSA's latest offering as I cannot believe it is not averaging 5 stars, nor do I find it a fair reflection reading other reviews comparing ...Like Clockwork to previous QOTSA efforts (or even TCV).
Before I start on ...Like Clockwork, an album review...
Published on 17 Jun. 2013 by Michael Munro
5 of 6 people found the following review helpful
3.0 out of 5 stars Solid effort from Homme & others
I don't buy too many CDs these days, but opted to give this a go as I heard many good things about it. I am also a big fan of early QOTSA stuff (as well as Kyuss), my favourites being the self-titled debut, Rated R and Songs for the Deaf. I heard this was a return to form, as some of the more recent stuff has been hit & miss.
I've listened to it several times...
Published on 24 Jun. 2013 by Man_5
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44 of 49 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars ...Like Clockwork - QOTSA,
Michael Munro (Scotland) - See all my reviews
I have never written a review on Amazon (or anywhere else for that matter) but I feel compelled to write on for QOTSA's latest offering as I cannot believe it is not averaging 5 stars, nor do I find it a fair reflection reading other reviews comparing ...Like Clockwork to previous QOTSA efforts (or even TCV).
Before I start on ...Like Clockwork, an album review should be judged on what is played out in front of you, not based on the band's previous albums. I whole heartedly agree that both Rated R and Songs for the Deaf were truly remarkable albums, deserving of 5 stars, yet I have rated other albums 5 stars that are only half as good as ...Like Clockwork. People are saying they are disappointed there is none of the 'in your face' songs that was more evident on the two aforementioned albums, but this was only provided when Oliveri was on board and had more influence on the output. QOTSA certainly have progressed, matured even, from their early albums and fans of those albums shouldn't expect a repeat of "Rated R" or "Songs For The Deaf", these days are gone now. "Rated R", "Songs for the Deaf" are immense albums and always will be held in high esteem as they should be, but if Josh & co were to merely repeat them, their strength as albums would be diluted (and those who accuse QOTSA of sounding the same would actually then have a vaild point).
I have been a QOTSA fan since the beginning and Kyuss before them. I find each of the QOTSA albums different, which for me is great. I admit LTP and EV had some below par stuff, but, to me, were still pretty decent albums. ...Like Clockwork is nothing short of a masterpiece, there is no filler on here. Once I streamed the album, I was instantly hooked. Each track is full of it's own brilliance and I'm finding myself not skipping any track. There are stand outs, but each to our own as to what they are, but for the record mine are "If I had a Tail", I can't stop my head bopping up and down in time with the beat and feeling the swagger I associate with QOTSA, "I Sat By the Ocean" and the magnificent, yet sombre, "I Appear Missing" - a pure odyssey. "Smooth Sailing" is also a great track that would not be out of place on TCV's album (which for me another good album despite the rumblings on some of the revies here. sure it's no brilliant but there are some great tracks). There may not be the aforementioned rough, in your face punching songs but what is on here is dark, gloomy and captivating songs that almost absorb you into their unique aura and at times, character. Some of these rock and have several layers that are all intricately pieced together while others are more stripped back to just Josh's supreme vocals with a piano. Each track takes me on a journey, with Josh telling a story - albeit not very happy ones but most definately emotional and intense. ...Like Clockwork is another piece of evidence of his strong song & lyric writing skills.
...Like Clockwork is a solid album full of beautifully crafted and instantly grabbing melodies & lyrics, almost individual stories, that stay established your head. I read somewhere that the key to a successful album is a coherent yet eclectic mix of songs and ...Like Clockwork is certainly that to me.
As I said at start, I have never written a review before, nor am I by any means a writer (was average at best in English- all those years ago) but I hope I got my point across to you.
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars Like Clockwork... yes I do!,
This is a brilliant album. I have listened to most of QOTSA albums and Josh Homme's other work (TCV)and never fail to be impressed by their work. Other reviewers have said that this one doesn't have the 'head-banger' appeal of older albums. I agree, but I think that they have moved on to a more mature product. I particularly like the title track and the falsetto singing which works well on that track. I listened to a live version of this track before I bought the album and really liked the intricate guitar work on the instrumental break. The album version, I felt, was slightly over-produced in comparison, but I still like it. Not a duff track and thoroughly recommended.
25 of 28 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Classic,
I fear to make such a bold statement, but I believe ...Like Clockwork reaches and indeed surpasses the lofty heights of Songs For The Deaf. The two albums seem fairly incomparable but I'm making the comparison anyway because ...Like Clockwork deserves the same kind of extravagant praise.
This is Queens as a fresh, matured and reflective outfit. Homme calls on some past musicians for aid (Grohl, Nick) and some new musicians for interesting collaborations (Elton John, Trent Reznor, Alex Turner) to hone this cohesive mix of grooves and lamentations.
Those looking for stomping riffs ripping through the album may not be wholly satisfied for ...Like Clockwork is an album not of subtleties, but certainly more intricately arranged and designed than say, some of the frantic jams on SFTD or Rated R. However, those people can be compensated by the heaviness (in mood as well as tone) of 'I Appear Missing' which is possibly the most emotive and breath-taking track here. 'My God Is The Sun' offers that immediate rocker need for solid riffs whilst 'Smooth Sailing' and 'If I Had A Tail' offer a groovier, funkier twist akin to the grooves on Era Vulgaris. There's plenty for everyone, and the key to a successful album is a coherent yet eclectic mix of songs and ...Like Clockwork is exactly that.
...Like Clockwork has a better fluidity to it than Lullabies To Paralyze or Era Vulgaris. It can almost be viewed as a concept album for its lyrical content alone, but the excellent final mix of the album flows so incredibly well that it feels blasphemous to dip in and out of the album (just as well I'm buying the vinyl).
Newcomers, veterans, and general music lovers, do yourself a favour and pick up this extraordinary album. Queens always manage to keep it interesting, and this time they've toned down the experimentation from EV, opened up a little more from the claustrophobic LTP and created a work of art which has made me respect Josh Homme and co more than ever before. Introspective, deep, melancholy, and a wonderful record for the summer, ...Like Clockwork will surely be my Album Of The Year and for many after that.
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars Stunning Art, Stunning Album,
This review is from: Like Clockwork [VINYL] (Vinyl)
Not only do you get quality music, you get quality artwork inside and out.
The case is made of quality card, as are the inner sleeves, each with their own pieces of art depicting scenes from the awesome music videos.
The vinyl discs themselves don't seem to have any blemishes upon close inspection, and upon listening you get what you paid for, a well rounded and brilliant album.
Not however for the impatient, you can't stray from your record player for long due to the small amount of tracks per side (3 on each side for the first disc, and 2 per side for the second).
Mine did however have a dent on the back of the cover, but I suspect this happened during the long trip it had to take to get to me.
Anyway, a must-have for fans and music lovers.
6 of 7 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Bruised and beautiful,
Leeroy Matthews (the northwest) - See all my reviews
Ah well, I've had varying amounts of love and/or admiration for everything QOTSA have done, down the years, but for some reason failed to get too excited about this release. Um, then life went a bit wrong, and this album was a bedrock, and it kind of pulled me through. Strange as it may seem, it inspired some kind of positive response that stopped me wallowing in self-pity. The coda to I Appear Missing, in particular, moves me beyond reason.I couldn't add anything more to the reviews that have, to me, already illustrated the vulnerability, and strength, of this release. So I'll shut me gob. This is a band to be treasured.
5.0 out of 5 stars QOTSA's best album yet and a bleak masterpiece,
After six years of unreleased material, Queens of the Stone Age returned to us with this masterful and trippy album that showed a new change in direction for the band yet again. QOTSA are renowned for pioneering the stoner rock movement which was heavily influenced by psychedelic music, blues rock as well as metal which they developed on their first three albums. After the firing of bassist Nick Oliveri, they delivered a less abrasive and more lush sounding album with their 2005 release Lullabies to Paralyze and then returned with Era Vulgaris, which sounded like a mix between Rated R (their second album) and Lullabies. Era Vulgaris was a solid album by the band though it suffered slightly for having some derivative tracks and many fans were left feeling disappointed and alienated as they waited six years for Queens to re-emerge with their sixth album ...Like Clockwork. ...Like Clockwork is the group's least heavy sounding album to date but is also their most haunting lyrically and instrumentally. It's their best album since Songs for the Deaf and may even be my all time favourite QOTSA record.
...Like Clockwork retains the traditional trippy stoner rock sound that Queens had become renowned for as the opening track 'Keep Your Eyes Peeled' recalls some of the slower ominous doom-inspired tracks off of Lullabies to Paralyze like 'Someone in the Wolf'. 'I Sat by the Ocean' has a more upbeat and catchy ring to it juxtaposed with melancholy lyrics and Josh Homme's emotional vocals. 'The Vampyre of Time and Memory' is the softest track on the album with more emphasis on piano melodies than guitars and 'If I Had a Tail' is more distorted with a very raw lo-fi metal sound. 'My God is the Sun' is another heavy track on the album with a very catchy chorus and slick instrumentation.
On the second half of the album, 'Kalopsia' is a uniquely composited song that opens up with a quiet piano tune before bursting out with an explosive chorus. 'Fairweather Friends' features very misanthropic lyrics that I can identify with very well and closes off terrifically with Josh singing 'fair' before cutting off and bluntly stating 'I don't give a s**t about them anyhow'. 'Smooth Sailing' returns to the more heavy sound of 'My God is the Sun' and has a cool bluesy vibe to it that sounds like something off of Era Vulgaris. The last two tracks of the album, 'I Appear Missing' and the title track retain a very dark haunting feel to them that were apparently inspired by Josh Homme's near-death experience. 'I Appear Missing' is possibly my favourite track on the whole album. It has a very bluesy riff and an ominous desert rock melody with reflective lyrics and a very gothic guitar solo in the middle. The title track is a really effective closer as it begins with a mournful piano melody before getting louder with a psychedelic guitar riff bridging the song before the refrain.
I may be wrong in this assumption but I always felt that ...Like Clockwork was a concept album whilst listening to it and was split in two halves. The first half of the album sort of hints at something dark but also feels more on the catchy side of metal whilst the second half starts off with sheer bluntness before descending into melancholy and bleakness. On the whole, it's definitely the band's darkest and lyrically emotional album through this. The album is also filled with guest musicians with Scissor Sisters frontman Jake Shears providing additional vocals on 'Keep Your Eyes Peeled', Alex Turner of Arctic Monkeys singing some lyrics on 'If I Had a Tail', Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails singing co-lead vocals on 'Kalopsia' and Sir Elton John on piano and backing vocals on 'Fairweather Friends'.
Personal favourites from ...Like Clockwork: 'I Sat By the Ocean', 'If I Had a Tail', 'Kalopsia', 'Fairweather Friends', 'I Appear Missing' and '...Like Clockwork'.
...Like Clockwork is one of the best rock albums of the past few years and one of my favourite albums even if it's only a year old now. It's Queens' best album to date and a perfect blend of different genres from blues to psychedelia to doom metal. There's not one bad song on the album and it flows perfectly, feeling very caustic yet also lush and spellbinding.
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars STILL GOING WITH THE FLOW,
HAYLING BOOK & MUSIC VENUE (follow us on Face... (26 Rails Lane Hayling Island) - See all my reviews
I bought this album with a sense of apprehension - but need not have worried.
A lot of thought clearly went into the making of this album - the songs are intelligently written and there a few nice surprises - it all hangs together well.
It is fair to say that this is not their strongest album, but it is still very good nevertheless. It may take a few plays to get into it, but it is worth persevering.
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Possibly the best album released since OK Computer,
R. Lissimore (London) - See all my reviews
Firstly I'm a massive QOTSA fan and have pretty much everything including imports and rarities, and Like Clockwork is their finest work. I still love my stoner rock of the early years, but this is something quite special.
I'd go as far to say that this is possibly the best album released by any artist since Radiohead's OK Computer; its that good.
The layers, texture, at times simplicity, and at other times complexity leads you into an album that is the work of a collective of musicians who experiment, take risks, and channel a dark period for Josh Homme into an album that I think will end up being timeless.
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars QOTSA claim their place in rock royalty,
Andy Sweeney "music was my first love" (Brighton, East Sussex) - See all my reviews
It's finally happened, Queens Of The Stone Age have made a stone-clad classic, worthy of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with all of the rock greats. Like many great albums, it was born from extraordinary circumstances; this one being Josh Homme nearly dying and being bed-ridden in hospital for weeks on end after complications from a routine knee operation. "Like Clockwork" combines all of the best elements of QOTSA's music; the melodious nature of the more gentle songs with the power of their heavier albums to produce an album that screams quality the very first time you hear it. I can quite honestly say that this is Homme's most accomplished album to date and even my previous favourite of his, "Songs For The Deaf" just can't compare with an album filled with song after song of absolutely brilliance. Of course, what this album has in common with "Songs For The Deaf" is a return of Dave Grohl to the drums for half of the album and there are other guest appearances by rock heavyweights such as Trent Reznor, Nick Oliveri and, er, Jake Shears.
It's very difficult indeed to pick out favourites when the whole album is excellent, but I will give it a go. "I Sat By The Ocean" is the first stand-out track in this set; it's catchy, powerful and brilliant. "The Vampyre Of Time and Memory", an excellent composition, is specifically about the numbness of feeling nothing when ending a relationship, but Homme's hospital experience is surely referenced when the swelling music that accompanies the line, "I've survived, I speak, I breathe, I'm incomplete, I'm alive, hurray!" builds to a bitter climax and tears at your heart. "If I Had A Tail" (featuring Arctic Monkeys' Alex Turner on vocals) begins with some tongue-in-cheek nonsense lyrics, but really grabs you when the arresting guitar bursts in on the chorus. "My God Is The Sun" is probably the most typically like tracks from other QOTSA albums, with a spiralling guitar riff, pounding drums and ethereal harmonies, but it's still a winner. "Fairweather Friends", co-written with long-time friend Mark Lanegan and featuring Elton John on background vocals and piano, is one of the best tracks on "Like Clockwork", boasting a truly beautiful melody, superb delivery and some of the most gorgeous guitar work I've heard all year.
"Smooth Sailing" is a rather enjoyable groove of a song, although I'm not sure what Rossi and Parfitt would make of Josh's promise to "Blow his load all over the status quo". "I Appear Missing", a quiet/loud masterpiece, is amongst the best pieces of music on this release and, even at six minutes long, doesn't outstay its welcome for a second. The album finishes with an utterly sublime cut, as the melancholy title track is perhaps the most beautiful piece of music Homme has ever written. It is after the album has finished, when the silence is louder than usual, when you find yourself still reeling from what you've just listened to that you realise that this piece of work is something very special indeed, something that makes you reach for the play button to hear it all over again right after it has finished. Without any hyperbole, "Like Clockwork" is not only of the best albums to be released this year, it's one of the best heavy rock albums of all time.
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars QOTSA back to their best,
After the brilliant 'Songs For The Deaf' and 'Lullabies to Paralyze', I found 'Era Vulgaris' a bit disappointing, so was apprehensive when I heard about 'Like Clockwork' on QOTSA's Twitter feed, but the feed provided links to 3 (or was it 4?) animated videos of songs from 'Like Clockwork'. I was so impressed that I bought the album and wasn't disappointed.
The album contains great rock tracks along with some slower tracks with some great piano work and Josh's dreamy vocals.
Standout tracks include my favourite, 'Kalopsia' which also features the vocal talents of Trent Reznor, the brilliant 'Keep Your Eyes Peeled', 'My God is the Sun' and the slow 'The Vampyre of Time and Memory' which I think shows how QOTSA have grown. I don't think there are any weak tracks on the album.
A must buy for any QOTSA fan and a great introduction to QOTSA for others.
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...Like Clockwork by Queens Of The Stone Age
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Made in Mexico or making a mess? If you recognize this Hecho Desmadre shirt from SPƎNGLISH, you need to have one. Ya tu sabes.
Size Medium measurements: Length 27", Chest 20".
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New York, Nov. 30, 2009 – NYSE Euronext (NYX) today announced the completion of its acquisition, through NYSE Technologies, of NYFIX, Inc. (Nasdaq: NYFX), a leading provider of innovative solutions that optimize trading efficiency, in an all-cash deal for approximately $144 million, or $1.675 per common share without interest plus preferred stock consideration. This acquisition expands NYSE Euronext's pre-trade product offering and global buy-side and sell-side communities.
With the completion of the acquisition, the NYFIX FIX business, which incorporates the company's NYFIX Marketplace and the industry-leading FIX Software business, now becomes part of the offerings of NYSE Technologies. NYFIX Euro Millennium operations will cease immediately with a view to customers bringing their liquidity to SmartPool, the European dark liquidity venue created by NYSE Euronext in partnership with leading investment banks. The NYFIX Transaction Services U.S. electronic agency execution business comprised of its direct market access and algorithmic products and the Millennium Alternative Trading System, as previously announced, are being acquired by ConvergEX, subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.
"The natural synergies born of this combination should prove beneficial for our customers and shareholders," said Larry Leibowitz, Group Executive Vice President, Head of US Markets and Global Technology, NYSE Euronext. "This transaction complements our strategic corporate goals and expands our points of connectivity with customer trading communities. We would also like to recognize the efforts of NYFIX employees who helped to pioneer electronic trading and welcome the NYFIX community to NYSE Euronext."
NYSE Euronext's acquisition of NYFIX was announced on Aug. 27, 2009 and was approved by NYFIX stockholders on Nov. 3, 2009.
To view video of Mr. Young with Bob Moitoso, Senior Vice President, NYSE Technologies Marketplace, addressing the acquisition, go to: http://www.nyse.com/attachment/nyfix1.htm. To view video of Lee Hodgkinson, Chief Executive Officer of Smartpool, go to: http://www.nyse.com/attachment/nyfix2.htm.
Please visit http://www.nyse.com/nyfix for more info on NYSE Technologies and the NYFIX integration.
Citigroup acted as financial advisor and Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz as legal advisor to NYSE Euronext on this transaction. NYFIX was represented by Evercore Partners as financial advisor and WilmerHale as legal advisor. The NYFIX Special Committee was advised by Greenhill & Co., LLC as financial advisor and Covington & Burling LLP as legal counsel. Evercore Partners provided a fairness opinion to NYFIX's Board of Directors and Greenhill & Co. provided a fairness opinion to the NYFIX Special Committee and to NYFIX's Board of Directors.
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