text:
[Up to 66% Off] Hua Hin / Cha Am, Thailand: Stay for 2 at Veranda Resort & Spa + Daily Buffet Breakfast. Choose 3D2N (RM699) / 4D3N (RM949) / 5D4N (RM1,199). From RM149.90 per person per night. Limited Groupons
- Located on Cha Am beach.
- Swimming pool, spa, gym, and more.
- Visit places like Klai Kangwon Palace, Sam Roi Yot National Park, various night markets, and more.
- Valid until Oct 31, 2012. Combine Groupons for longer stay.
- AirAsia flies to Bangkok 8 times daily (LCCT), once daily from Penang, while Malaysia Airlines flies 6 times daily (tickets to be purchased separately).
- Stay period: May 26, 2012 – Oct 31, 2012.
- Bookings must be made between May 14, 2012 – Aug 31, 2012.
- Min. 14 days prior booking required. Bookings subject to availability.
- Amendments must be made at least 7 days prior to confirmed booking date.
- May buy and use many. Combine Groupons for longer stay.
- Max. 3 adults OR 2 adults and 1 child aged 12 and below per room. 3rd guest subject to additional charges.
- Rate is inclusive of applicable taxes and service charges.
- Printed Groupon voucher required at check-in.
- See the rules that apply to all deals.
- Daily buffet breakfast for 2 people.
- 15-min head and shoulder massage for 2 people.
- Welcome drinks upon arrival for 2 people.
- 15% discount on food items.
- 20% discount at Veranda Spa.
- Two times daily shuttle service to Hua Hin (as per hotel schedule).
- Late check-out till 3pm.
- Airport transfer.
- Transportation to Hua Hin / Cha Am, Thailand.
ADD-ONS (payable to hotel)
- Extra bed with breakfast for guests of all ages: THB1,500 per person per night.
- Stay extension with breakfast: THB3,500 per room per night.
- Airport transfer (from Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok to hotel): THB4,500 per car per way (max. 6 people per car).
HOW TO BOOK (book early to avoid disappointment)
Call +66-3270-9000-099 or email firstname.lastname@example.com with your:
- Name
- Contact number
- Email address
- Preferred date(s) of stay
- Groupon voucher code
- Groupon security code
- Attached Groupon
Customers are advised to call +66-3270-9000-099 or email Veranda Resort & Spa at firstname.lastname@example.com to check on availability of preferred travel dates before purchasing this Groupon and travel tickets to Hua Hin / Cha Am, Thailand. All bookings must be made by Aug 31, 2012.
Popular ways to travel include driving, flying, and imagining. Today's Groupon travels for real with a stay for two in a Jacuzzi Sea View Room, inclusive of daily buffet breakfast at Veranda Resort & Spa in Hua Hin / Cha Am, Thailand. Choose from the following options:
- 3D2N stay for 2 for RM699 (RM1,763 published rack rate) (only RM174.75 per person per night)
- 4D3N stay for 2 for RM949 (RM2,645 published rack rate) (only RM158.20 per person per night)
- 5D4N stay for 2 for RM1,199 (RM3,527 published rack rate) (only RM149.90 per person per night)
Jacuzzi Sea View Room
- 60 sqm room
- Hollywood twin beds
- Open style bathroom
- Separate rain shower room
- Outdoor Jacuzzi
- 2 sun beds
- Air-conditioning
- Day bed (can be used as child bed)
- Working/dressing table
- Mini bar
- Personal safe
- Wi-Fi
- LCD television with satellite channels
- DVD player
- International direct dial telephone
- Tea and coffee making facilities
Situated on the sultry sands of Cha Am beach, the hotel warmly embraces temporary residents seeking to tame oppressive stress forces. Apart from frivolously prancing on pristine shores, patrons may childishly challenge waves to duels involving stamina, swim strokes, and skilful sand shovelling. Travelling delegates may visit Klai Kangwon Palace to study its intricate architecture or soak up the sights and sounds of energetic markets and bars. When not engaging in touristy adventures, tired wanderers may recharge drained reserves by outdoor swimming pools, veranda spa, water slide, and more:
Hotel facilities
- Bar and restaurant
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Water slide
- Veranda Spa
- Fitness centre
- Poolside bar
- Kids club
- Water sports
- Tennis courts
- Bicycle rental
- Wi-Fi
- Conference room
- Safety deposit boxes
- Laundry and dry cleaning services
- Babysitting service
- Shuttle bus service to Hua Hin town
Nearby places of interest
- Hua Hin Beach
- Cha Am Beach
- Khao Hin Lek Fai
- Namtok Pa La-u
- Hua Hin Arts and Crafts Centre
- Klai Kangwon Palace
- Sam Roi Yot National Park
- Snorkelling & scuba diving
- Water sports
- Kite-boarding
- Pony rides
- Elephant camps and trekking
- Night markets
- Restaurants and bars
Check out more things to do and places to visit around Hua Hin at WikiTravel and Cha Am at Virtual Tourist.
Phone: +66-3270-9000-099
Facebook: Veranda Resort and Spa
Veranda Resort & Spa is ranked 5th out of 48 hotels in Cha Am on TripAdvisor and received a score of 8.2 out of 10 based on 316 reviews on Agoda.
The room was huge with plenty of space - a HUGE balcony with a fantastic view of the sea. This hotel is spotlessly clean whilst not making you feel that you can't walk around with sand on your feet etc. The staff seem to take great pride in looking after this hotel. All are extremely friendly and nothing is too much trouble. – Jan 5, 2010.
Nice room, beautiful decoration, relaxing atmosphere, full breakfast buffet, large infinity pool, all contributed to an enjoyable holiday. Most importantly, it is situated at the side if the beach. – Mar 21, 2012.
– pikpik526
This time we booked a room with seaview. Amazing view. The staff is very helpfull and the Spa is excelent. You have to visit the Spa! Also the roomservice en the restaurants are very good. The breakfast you don't want to miss. – Feb 2, 2012.
– InekeBuren


text:
I am 6'2" tall. I really hate shower doors. You know they are there. You duck to miss them on purpose, yet your cranial cap draws to them like a damn magnet. You try to act rational and show restraint knowing young ears are only 1/2" of sheet rock away. Everyone listens when dad yells. You know this too. It always leads to a weird tropical dance routine. Trying to hold it back through gritted teeth and rapid panting while bobbing up and down naked around the bathroom. Rocking from side to side while applying pressure hoping brain matter survived and offering a redneck prayer. ( this is the heavy mix if rather prayerful terms mixed with shoot cussing and a few ranch explainitives )
I have also figured out shower door frames are related to the door frames of Robinson R-22 helicopters. 6'2" guys are amusing to watch try to enter the cockpit. Folding up like a weblewobble with legs imitating a smurf. Then somehow still cram your head right into the dang door you set yourself up to try and miss.
Maybe my heads gotten too big.
End random rant for the night.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Athenaeum Location
recently resigned from his post as president and
chief executive officer of the Federal Asset Disposition
Association (FADA). FADA was chartered by the
Federal Home Loan Bank Board to manage distressed
assets of failed savings and loans and realize gain for the
Federal Savings and Loan Insurance Corporation
(FSLIC) insurance fund from their disposition.
During his ten-month tenure at FADA, Ambassador
Carmen turned the money-losing organization into one
that returned more than $6.5 million to the FSLIC.
Ambassador Carmen, appointed by President
Reagan, served as the U.S. permanent representative to
the United Nations office and other international organizations in Geneva from May 1, 1984, until August 31,
1986. Following this assignment, Mr. Carmen served as
senior adviser to the Bush administration transition
Presently Ambassador Carmen is on the board of
directors of Northeast Savings Bank. He was formerly
on the board of directors of the Federal Home Loan
Bank of Boston.
Mr. Carmen's address will focus on the savings and
loan failures that have cost the taxpayers billions of
dollars. He will discuss what the government is doing to
clean up this unfortunate chapter in banking history.
If you would like to attend the reception and dinner
prior to Mr. Carmen's 7:00 address, please fill out the
reservation coupon.
CMC and chairman of the board of governors of
Gould Center, gives the second lecture in the series,
"Public Figures and the Humanities." This series is
devoted to "chats" by public figures, who will show the
relevancy of the humanities to their careers and
development. Under the title "My Prince," Mr. Gould
discusses Machiavelli's The Prince (1513) and the pertinence of
Machiavelli's arguments in the modern world.
Mr. Gould, a private investor, graduated from CMC
with a degree in political science in 1965 and from
Northwestern University with an MBA in 1967. He
became vice president at First National Bank of Chicago
in 1977, and has also been in charge of Citicorp
Securities in Los Angeles. Mr. Gould has been active in
the CMC Alumni Association and became a member of
the College's board of trustees in 1988.
At the Gould Center for Humanistic Studies, Mr.
Gould has encouraged the growth of its curricular
interests, in particular the new Gould seminar, which
this semester is titled "Diversity in America."
Please join us in welcoming a Renaissance gentleman-Ed Gould-alumnus, trustee, educator, and businessman. If you wish to join us for dinner, please fill out the
reservation form.
Suzanne Landolphi for an evening of comedy,
honesty, and straightforward discussion about the
AIDS epidemic. Last October Ms. Landolphi brought to
Claremont her zany, yet educational approach to the
subject of AIDS and safer sex. We are happy to welcome
her again for a night of humor, frankness, veracity, and
facts-facts about the AIDS crisis and other sexually
transmitted diseases.
It is now estimated that one in every 300 college
students is infected with the AIDS virus. We need to get
the facts and know the truth about AIDS, and begin to
seriously think about how to educate ourselves and
others about how not to spread the AIDS virus.
Suzanne Landolphi, of Hot, Sexy, and Safer Productions, brings a fresh, new approach to the discussion of
safer sex. Ms. Landolphi has educated high school and
college students across the country with her humorous,
entertaining, and candid approach. Her extensive experience in theater and television allows her to capture
her audience in a very creative and innovative way.
Suzanne Landolphi feels that before we can begin to
practice safer sex, we need to talk about it. She does just
that-and more. Come join Suzanne Landolphi at the
Marian Miner Cook Athenaeum for a truly stimulating
and informative evening, beginning with a 5:30 reception and 6:00 dinner. "Hot, Sexy, and Safer-Again: Sex in the 90s"
begins at 7:00 p.m.
just returned from a summer in Europe. He is
eminently qualified to tell us his first-hand impressions
on what is happening in Europe today: the new
German structure, the effects of the Middle Eastern
crisis, and Austria's place in this new Europe of the
Franz Cede was born in Austria in 1945, attended
school in Innsbruck, and graduated from the University
of Innsbruck Law School. He followed his law degree by
studying for two years at the Johns Hopkins School for
Advanced International Studies (one year in Bologna,
Italy, the second year in Washington, D.C.). In 1972 Mr.
Cede joined the Austrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
He has been assigned in Paris and Rabat and has been
the Austrian ambassador to Zaire. He is currently the
Austrian consul general in Los Angeles.
Ambassador Cede is the first in a series of speakers
sponsored in conjunction with the Keck Center, "The
United States and Europe in the 1990s." He will be
followed by Peter Gourevitch (also noted in this
Fortnightly) and Ladislav Venys from Czechoslovakia on
November 8. If you would like to join us for the
reception and dinner preceding Dr. Code's address,
please use the coupon in this Fortnightly.
the Democratic National Committee, Lynn Cutler.
Ms. Cutler will speak on the upcoming 1990 elections
and give her thoughts about how the results might
affect the Democratic party.
As vice chair. Cutler acts as the DNC liaison to
statewide and county-elected officials. In her nine years
in office, she has worked with these officials to build
what she terms a strong "intergovernmental partnership" within the Democratic party. As a former county
supervisor in Iowa, Cutler has special insights about the
difficulties facing her party's local officials.
In 1977 President Carter appointed Cutler to the U.S.
Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations,
and in 1978 she became vice chair. Since the beginning
of her career. Cutler has been particularly active in
national party fundraising, as well as in promoting
political activism among students and women.
Vice Chair Cutler's honors are numerous. They
include recognition as one of the "Outstanding Women
in America," and recently Washingtonian Magazine cited
Cutler as one of "Washington's 100 Most Powerful
Ms. Cutler's speech will be preceded by a 5:30
reception and 6:00 dinner. To join us for this event,
please fill out the enclosed reservation form and return
it to the Athenaeum.
Studies and the Marian Miner Cook Athenaeum are
pleased to present the second speaker in the lecture
series "The United States and Europe in the 1990s." Dr.
Peter Gourevitch discusses "International Relations in
the 1990s: A New System?" on Tuesday, October 9.
Dr. Gourevitch is the dean of the Graduate School of
International Relations and Pacific Studies at the University of California, San Diego, where he is also a
professor of political science. He received his PhD from
Harvard University and served as acting director of the
Center for European Studies at Harvard. He also taught
at McGill University.
He has published a large number of books and articles
on Europe and international relations, including France
and the Troubled World Economy (1982), Politics in Hard Times: Comparative Responses to International Crisis (1986),
Unions and Economic Crises: Britain, West Germany and
Sweden, Paris and the Provinces (1984), and International Industrial Relations Perspectives (1981).
The lecture begins at 7:00 p.m. and is preceded by a
5:30 reception and 6:00 dinner. If you wish to attend the
reception and dinner, please fill out and return the
reservation form.
National Committee co-chairman Jeanie Austin. In
response to Lynn Cutler's DNC perspective, Austin
presents the GOP perspective on the upcoming November elections. Austin offers us her views on the key
issues that will help determine the election's outcome
and the future of the Republican party.
As the nation's number two GOP leader under Lee
Atwater, Austin will be working toward the party's
ultimate goal: majority status by the year 2000. She has
actively promoted grassroots participation through
direct candidate recruitment, voter registration, and
party fundraising, in both her home state of Florida and
with the RNC. Previous to her RNC co-chairmanship,
Austin served for four years as chairman to the
Republican party of Florida. During her tenure in office,
fundraising rose from $1 million to $6 million and
Republican registration increased by 53 percent.
As a major spokesperson for increasing women's
participation in politics, Austin has developed training
seminars, including "Women Who Win: How to Speak
Out As a Republican Woman Leader."
Known for her tough-talking spunk, Jeanie Austin
promises to give us a no-frills view on party politics
from the inside. Please fill out the enclosed reservation
form, if you would like to join us for the 5:30 reception
and 6:00 dinner.
we treat Mother Nature. Greenpeace, however,
has been internationally dedicated to the protection of
the "fragile web of life on our planet" for 19 years.
Greenpeace developed in 1971, when a group of
Americans and Canadians attempted to stop nuclear
testing on Amchitka Island in Alaska. Although unsuccessful in their efforts, the group rallied support from
other activists interested in the fight for the environment. As a result, Greenpeace has evolved into a
worldwide volunteer organization that uses nonviolent
direct action to protest, protect, and defend the environment.
The Marian Miner Cook Athenaeum welcomes Christopher Childs, who shares with us his experiences as an
environmental activist with Greenpeace, as well as the
concerns and activities of this international organization. He joined Greenpeace in 1987, while employed as
a technician with a commercial environmental testing
laboratory. Mr. Childs has had previous experience
with the Massachusetts Acid Rain Monitoring Project.
On this night of consciousness raising, the history and
activities of Greenpeace will come alive with a colorful
photographic slide presentation. Mr. Childs, the first in
a series of speakers on "Saving Our Environment," will
take us on a journey through Greenpeace's past,
present, and future. If you would like to attend the
reception and dinner prior to Mr. Child's presentation,
please return the enclosed form.
Gena Morgan '91
LaTanya Wright '91
Marian Miner Cook Athenaeum! Once again a
semester of exciting and informative Athenaeum events
will have you running to return your reservation slips.
As Athenaeum fellows, we want to encourage you to
take advantage of the many stimulating speakers that
the Ath has to offer.
The Athenaeum is proud to host returning guests Jean
Kilbourne and Suzi Landolphi as part of the "Women in
the l990s" series. Other familiar faces include our own
Jack Stark and the notable Donald McKenna, who will
share how their favorite novels affected their lives.
Other series ahead at the Athenaum are "Saving Our
Environment," "The United States and Europe in the
1990s," and "Diversity: The History of an Idea in
America." These, however, are only a sampling of the
fantastic personalities and programs in store for you.
The Athenaeum is a great place to meet people and to
learn outside the classroom. Feel free to sign up for as
many events as you like, and if you would like to sit at
the speaker's table, please notify one of us in advance.
And don't forget: no jeans, shorts, tennis shoes, or
swimsuits are allowed at Ath dinners. If you have any
ideas for the Athenaeum or about possible speakers,
don't hesitate to contact us. See you at the Ath!
There are three dates still open: Thursday, November 28, 1990; Tuesday, December 4, 1990; and Wednesday, December 5, 1990. Due to the popularity of the Madrigal you are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible. Seating is on a first-come basis.
Use the reservation coupon to sign up, and be sure to include your payment and meal card number when turning in your reservation at the Athenaeum office. If you wish to sit with a group, please turn in a list of all names and meal card numbers with your payment. We have a limited number of tables that can seat 8 or 10 people.
CMC students with meal card $10.00 per person
CMC students without meal card $13.00 per person
CMC faculty and staff (limit two tickets per person) $$17.00 per person
Claremont Colleges students with meal card $12.00 per person
Claremont Colleges students without meal card $17.00 per person
Claremont Colleges faculty and staff (limit two tickets per person) $23.00 per person
Community persons $30.00 per person
Seating for each Madrigal Feast will begin at 6:00 p.m. with dinner beginning at 6:30 p.m. and concluding around 9:30 p.m. after the concert following the meal. All guests to the feast are expected to remain for the concert.
Where you sit at the Madrigal is entirely dependent upon when your reservation is received. Get a group of friends to sign up to sit together so that you may all have an unforgettable time at the Eighth Annual Madrigal Feast at the Marian Miner Cook Athenaeum.


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OxyContin use down in Vt. but heroin use increasesBy DAVE GRAM
The Associated Press | November 24,2012Staff file photo
Detective Sgt. Kevin Stevens inspects bags of heroin seized by Rutland police during a drug bust earlier this year.WATERBURY Efforts to make OxyContin harder to abuse have succeeded in Vermont, the top state police drug investigator says, but one notable result has been addicts switching to an older scourge: heroin.
Lt. Matt Birmingham, head of the Vermont Drug Task Force, likened the situation to Whac-a-Mole. Once one problem is addressed, another surfaces.
Statistics provide another glimpse of Vermonts growing heroin problems. Deaths attributed in whole or in part to heroin overdose averaged less than 2.5 per year from 2004 to 2010. There were nine in 2011 and six so far this year, according to figures provided by the state Health Department from the state medical examiners office.
Investigators, drug counselors and others combating drug abuse were elated two years ago when OxyContins manufacturer, Purdue Pharma, reformulated the drug, Birmingham said in an interview. Thank God, he said.
OxyContin was designed for use in cancer patients and others suffering serious pain. It was to be taken every 12 hours, with the pill designed to release oxycodone into the body gradually. Addicts were chewing the pills or grinding and snorting them for an instant high. The new formula turns the pills into a gummy mass when theyre ground up, making them much less appealing to addicts.
But in the past two years, heroin has come to the fore in Vermont, with use spreading into some high schools.
Unfortunately, the younger kids think they can start by snorting heroin, a method that avoids the stigma and fear surrounding possibly dirty needles, Birmingham said. You can get addicted all the same, he said adding that young people generally end up injecting once they get a full-blown addiction.
In addition to spreading to a younger group of users, heroin is circulating more widely in Vermonts rural areas. In the rural southeastern Vermont town of Chester, police raided an apartment in early October and arrested nine people. They also seized $18,000 in cash, heroin with a street value of $20,000, crack cocaine worth $6,200 and OxyContin pills valued at $4,000.
Birmingham said drug distribution networks in the state appeared to have become better organized than they were a decade ago. In the past, people would come into Vermont with a shipment of drugs and set up shop in an addicts house to sell them until the supply ran out.
Now were seeing kind of organized networks within the state that some of the dealers can stay in New York City or Albany and wherever the source areas are and just sort of keep the flow going to the established networks in Vermont. So that concerns us greatly, he said.
The response must combine law enforcement, education and treatment for addicts, Birmingham said.
Law enforcement realized very quickly that we cannot solve this problem at all by arresting our way out of it. Its just not going to happen, he said. As long as there is a demand here for heroin and opiate products, the supply will just keep coming. And youre just not going to stop it unless you build a 20-foot fence around the state.MORE IN Vermont NewsMONTPELIER Needy families with disabled adults will not see a reduction in the financial... Full StoryMONTPELIER Needy families with disabled adults will not see a reduction in the financial... Full StoryMONTPELIER Officials from the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources are going to be holding a... Full Story
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text: My mule deer hunting hole in Nv has now been foun out! I saw 6 different archery hunters in the same spot I took my 175" buck last year. And while Antalope hunting for my wife's buck this year I saw 4 rigs roll up the same drainage we go to and didn't come out. I've heard that to get the rif raff out I should tell everyone I know about the area and let it get hunted out then nobody will hunt there anymore then u can go back in 5 years or so and get good bucks again. I'm not to sure about this "strategy". I've been so pretective of the area I have a hard time telling folks about it. I know one of my hunting partners have told a few guys and I feel this has been the demise of the area but I won't blame it all on him. (I want to though). What do you guys think I should do? I have decided to start hunting a new area so at least I and my buddies won't be taking more deer from the area to help with my cause but I'm really bummed about this area we have been taking great bucks for the past 6 years or so.


text:
Article ID: 324761 - View products that this article applies to.
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After you upgrade from Microsoft Windows 98 to Windows XP, you may not be able to save images from a Web site through America Online (AOL).
When you try to save an image, the .jpg file type does not appear in the Save As dialog box.
This behavior may occur when AOL's graphic compression option is turned on. When this option is on, the images are saved as the .art file type.
To resolve this issue, turn off graphic compression. To do this, follow these steps:
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Article ID: 324761 - Last Review: January 12, 2015 - Revision: 3.0


text:
GRETHEL — Brenda Akers knew the house in which up until recently she had been living was old, but it wasn't until she began preparing to have it torn down over the weekend that she had any idea of how old it was.
As Akers and family members began stripping the walls over the weekend in preparation for demolition, they began to find newspaper and catalog pages lining the bare walls underneath, some dating back nearly a century.
In years past, when wallpaper was both expensive and difficult to come by, many Appalachian families would line their walls with whatever was handy. Often, that meant pages from a newspaper or farming catalog.
Though most of the pages were falling apart, several revealed that the papers were from a 1919 issue of the Cincinnati Enquirer. Akers said she had no idea the pages were there, but she was not surprised to learn how far back the house dates. Before she lived in it, her mother-in-law did, and her grandparents before that.
"I'd say this is the oldest house left on Mud Creek, and it's going down," Akers said, as she looked at the walls with wistful eyes. "I hate that that it's going down."


text:
Seared Short Rib Wraps from 'Family Table'
Today I'd like to present an argument in favor of lettuce wraps. Sure, they have a reputation for being a vehicle for ho-hum, low-carb and bland diet food, but there's no reason they need to stay in such a category. Once filled with rich and spicy short ribs, soft and sticky white rice, and potent kimchi as they are in Michael Romano and Karen Stabiner's Family Table, the humble Bibb lettuce leaf transforms into the best sort of wrap. They're strong enough to contain its filling, yet supple and mild enough to not overpower their contents. It's the best excuse to eat with your hands. These particular short rib wraps are super easy to throw together: blend up a potent marinade and let the boneless rib meat drink up its flavor for a couple of hours (or more if need be), heat a heavy pan, and sear away. More


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Reading Lists for Grades 6-12
If teachers will inform the teen librarians of upcoming reading lists for their classes, extra copies of the required or suggested books will (if possible within budgetary constraints) be ordered to accommodate students' needs. All libraries have within their teen sections an area called "Young Adult Paperback Classics," in which multiple paperback copies of the classics plus required reading list books can be found.
Project Notification for Grades 6-12
Teachers can save time and frustration by notifying the Burbank Public Library in advance of upcoming projects and assignments. Please email the teen librarian at firstname.lastname@example.com with the following details: Teacher's name, school, grade, telephone number, and a brief description of the project with any specific research requirements, plus start and end dates of the assignment.
Class Visits and Book-talking
Class visits by the teen librarians to the schools (information literacy or book-talking sessions) may be arranged by appointment. Likewise, teachers who bring their classes to the library for a work-study session will benefit by notifying teen librarians ahead of time so that they can be available to work with students. Please call (818) 238-5589 or email firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Wind: 0 mph
To The Editor:
Waitsfield citizens are about to vote on a very comprehensive set of regulations that is one of the largest land control grabs in town.
Landowners with two or more acres can be impacted at some time in
the future if they want to subdivide their land; consequently, these
regulations give the town total control over their land.
The town can require a donation of land for future roads, paths, walkways and recreation without offering the landowner any compensation for the land.
A landowner with open land will not be allowed to build on it but will be required to maintain the land.
Landowners with woodland would very likely be designated deer yards; therefore, no building would be allowed on the land but taxes will still be assessed.
Landowners that did a good job maintaining the land all their lives expecting to use it for retirement will be penalized and the town does not receive any benefits from citizen's stocks, bonds, and retirement funds; therefore, why should the land as a source of retirement be expected from the citizen who has been a good steward of the land for a lifetime?
The planning commission and select board have endorsed the regulations as a great document but they have nothing to lose by them. I urge all landowners to go to the Waitsfield Town Office and get a copy of the regulations the planning commission and select board is having you vote on. Read them thoroughly before going to the vote next week, Tuesday, October 23, 2007. If these regulations pass, total control of land will be in the town's hands, not the landowners, with the landowner still being required to maintain and pay taxes even though the landowner will have no control over their own land.
Paul Hartshorn


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Stacy Teet
Military Mom turned Super Mom, this nature loving, wannabe crafter has a positive outlook and fresh perspective on everyday life. She's on a mission to raise three happy, healthy, well-balanced kids and best of all, she wants to share her secrets!
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Eat for Luck, Literally
As far back as I can remember, Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens have been THE meal that ushered my family into the New Year. This deeply southern tradition claims Good Fortune and Prosperity will follow anyone who consumes large quantities of these foods on this particular day. And Hey, who am I to doubt […] [Read More]


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The Bucket Buddy® works with any bucket and can hold up to 40 pounds. Mounting screws included.
Get rid of unsightly baling twine that may break too soon or too late! Attach Equi-Ping instead to your cross tie ring or trailer tie ring, then tie as normal. If the horse panics, this device 'pings' open at approximately 175 pounds of pressure to help avoid injury.
Designed to help minimize injuries to tied horses or other animals, the Safe-T-Tie releases when enough pressure is applied. The Safe-T-Tie is portable, reusable and so much more elegant than a loop of baling twine. Five settings let you choose the level of resistance for every situation and every individual. 2-Pack.
The Tie Ring Screw Eye is easy to install. This chrome tie ring measures 4 1/2" in length with a 2 1/2" tie ring diameter.


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Yesterday we went to visit our son Scottie Jordan in the cemetary and this still seams fake. our lil girl layla (3yrs old) has been asking for him its so hard she breaks my heart when i hear her mention him. i told layla sjc chose to be an angel and one day we will see him again maybe one day she will dream with him, she told me oct 25 "daddy im sad i didnt dream with him".... i lost it and for the first time layla saw me break down and told me daddy dont be sad im ok. she has such a big job and she doesnt even know it. when the clock struck 12am on the 26th my heart broke so more. im the bread winner of the house i fix everything but dammit i cant fix this. i love my wife so much and she was so proud of her little man Her "New Man" she called him. i had to bury my father and my son which makes no sense to me at all. i cant wait to help return my son to my wife and layla her little brother i hope i can make that happen. i got a huge tattoo yesterday for my son i sat for 3 hours i have about another 6 hours to go to complete...i just needed to vent
We Miss You Lil Man
Scottie Jordan Cartagena


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If you would like to receive Latest News via email, you can Subscribe to our Email Notifications by following these INSTRUCTIONS.
Doña Ana County Sheriff Juan Hernandez has graduated with perfect physical and academic scores from the National Academy of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Quantico, Va.
Recent reports in the Las Cruces Sun News, El Paso Times and Albuquerque Journal contain substantial factual errors related to the history of Doña Ana County's computer systems.
Continuing an 11-year tradition, the staff and volunteers of the Doña Ana County Juvenile Detention Center have begun planning a Friday, Dec. 14, Christmas party for the juvenile detainees in the facility.
A task force of county department directors recently recommended a number of changes related to security of county buildings.
A vacancy in Doña Ana County's Legal Department has been filled with the hiring of Assistant County Attorney William "Bill" Kirschner.
Each week, Doña Ana County residents call our main switchboard for information about some basic services. I thought it might be helpful to recap some of the most common questions and their answers.
Doña Ana County is accepting applications for open alternate seats on the County Valuation Protest Board.
Most Dona Ana County offices will be closed all day Thursday, Nov. 22, 2001, and all day Friday, Nov. 23, 2001, to allow employees to observe the Thanksgiving holiday and the subsequent weekend with their families.
The Doña Ana County Board of Commissioners will begin its regular meeting of Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2001, at 4 p.m. with a closed session.
Computer access to property and real estate records has been fully restored to the offices of the Doña Ana County Assessor, County Clerk and County Treasurer.


text: I'm enjoying Under The Dome, but I wish Stephen King would do a TV series based on The Stand!! That has always been my favorite book of his. I also enjoyed the movie that was done based on the book, but I think with current technology, something done now would be even better!!


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Promise Lattice Sandal
Style # 196749
A unique pattern and sky-high design are always timeless elements of glamour. This bebe sandal features a faux suede upper, cone heel, square platform and adjustable strap at ankle. We dare you to pair it with any cocktail dress.
As seen in our August mailer
As seen in our August mailer
- Textile upper, fused outsole
- Imported
Promise Lattice Sandal 1 1
Comfortable and cute shoe! I fell in love with these online! I am usually a size 8 in Bebe shoes but these are a little small so I would recommend ordering them a half size up. Otherwise they look great on and are really comfortable! September 15, 2012
1-1 of 1


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Interpretive Handbook
50038 :
GRHPR Gene, Known Mutation
Clinical Information Discusses physiology, pathophysiology, and general clinical aspects, as they relate to a laboratory test
Primary hyperoxaluria type 2 (PH2) is a hereditary disorder of glyoxylate metabolism caused by deficiency of the hepatic enzyme glyoxylate reductase/hydroxypyruvate reductase (GRHPR). Absence of GRHPR activity results in excess oxalate and usually L-glycerate excreted in the urine leading to nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) and sometimes renal failure.
Onset of PH2 is typically in childhood or adolescence with symptoms related to kidney stones. In some cases, kidney failure may be the initial presenting feature. Nephrocalcinosis, as seen by renal ultrasound, is observed less frequently in individuals with PH2 than primary hyperoxaluria type 1 (PH1). End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is also less common and of later onset than PH1; however, once ESRD develops, oxalate deposition in other organs such as bone, retina, and myocardium can occur.
While the exact prevalence and incidence of PH2 are not known, it is thought that PH2 is less common than PH1, which has an estimated prevalence rate of 1 to 3 per million population and an incidence of 0.1 per million/year.
Biochemical testing is indicated in patients with possible primary hyperoxaluria. Measurement of urinary oxalate in a timed, 24-hour urine collection is strongly preferred, with correction to adult body surface area in pediatric patients (HYOX / Hyperoxaluria Panel, Urine; OXU / Oxalate, 24 Hour, Urine). In very young children (incapable of performing a timed collection), random urine oxalate to creatinine ratios may be used for determination of oxalate excretion. In patients with reduced kidney function, POXA / Oxalate, Plasma is also recommended. Urinary excretion of oxalate of >1.0 mmol/1.73 m(2)/24 hours is strongly suggestive of, but not diagnostic for, primary hyperoxaluria as there are other forms of inherited (PH1 and non-PH1/PH2) hyperoxaluria and secondary hyperoxaluria that may result in similarly elevated urine oxalate excretion rates. An elevated urine glycerate in the presence of hyperoxaluria is suggestive of PH2. Caution is warranted in interpretation of urine oxalate excretion in patients with reduced kidney function as urine oxalate concentrations may be lower due to reduced glomerular filtration rate. Historically, the diagnosis of PH2 was confirmed by GRHPR enzyme analysis performed on liver biopsy; however, this has been replaced by molecular testing, which forms the basis of confirmatory or carrier testing in most cases.
PH2 is inherited as an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the GRHPR gene, which encodes the enzyme GRHPR. Two common GRHPR mutations have been identified: c.103delG and c.403_404+2delAAGT. These mutations account for about one third of the mutant alleles described in the Northern European Caucasian population and about 15% in the Asian population.
Useful For Suggests clinical disorders or settings where the test may be helpful
Carrier testing of individuals with a family history of primary hyperoxaluria type 2 (PH2)
Diagnostic confirmation of PH2 when familial mutations in the GRHPR gene have been previously identified
Prenatal testing when 2 familial mutations in the GRHPR gene have been previously identified in an affected family member
Interpretation Provides information to assist in interpretation of the test results
All detected alterations will be evaluated according to American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) recommendations.(1) Variants will be classified based on known, predicted, or possible pathogenicity, and reported with interpretive comments detailing their potential or known significance.
Cautions Discusses conditions that may cause diagnostic confusion, including improper specimen collection and handling, inappropriate test selection, and interfering substances
The identification of disease-causing mutations in an affected family member is necessary before predictive testing for other family members can be offered. If a familial mutation has not been previously identified, order GRHMS / GRHPR Gene, Full Gene Analysis.
Analysis is performed for the familial mutation provided only. This assay does not rule out the presence of other mutations within this gene or within other genes that may be associated with primary hyperoxaluria type 2.
Test results should be interpreted in the context of clinical findings, family history, and other laboratory data. Any error in the diagnosis or in the pedigree provided to us, including false-paternity, could lead to erroneous interpretation of results.
A previous bone marrow transplant from an allogenic donor will interfere with testing. Call Mayo Medical Laboratories for instructions for testing patients who have received a bone marrow transplant.
In addition to disease-related probes, this test utilizes probes localized to other chromosomal regions as internal controls. In certain circumstances, these control probes may detect other diseases or conditions for which this test was not specifically intended. Results of the control probes are not normally reported. However, in cases where clinically relevant information is identified, the ordering physician will be informed of the result and provided with recommendations for any appropriate follow-up testing.
Reference Values Describes reference intervals and additional information for interpretation of test results. May include intervals based on age and sex when appropriate. Intervals are Mayo-derived, unless otherwise designated. If an interpretive report is provided, the reference value field will state this.
An interpretive report will be provided.
Clinical References Provides recommendations for further in-depth reading of a clinical nature
1. Richards CS, Bale S, Bellissimo DB, et al: ACMG recommendations for standards of interpretation and reporting of sequence variations: revisions 2007. Genet Med 2008;10(4):294-300
2. Primary Hyperoxaluria Type 2-GeneReviews-NCBI Bookshelf. Available from URL: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK2692/, accessed 8-7-2012
3. Rumsby G, Williams E, Coulter-Mackie M: Evaluation of mutation screening as a first line test for the diagnosis of the primary hyperoxalurias. Kidney Int 2004;66(3):959-963
4. Cregeen DP, Williams EL, Hulton S, Rumsby G: Molecular analysis of the glyoxylate reductase (GRHPR) gene and description of mutations underlying primary hyperoxaluria type 2. Hum Mutat 2003;22(6):497
5. Laboratory and molecular diagnosis of primary hyperoxaluria and oxalosis. Mayo Medical Laboratories' Communique, April 2007


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Went to the Dr. yesterday and had a great visit.
B/P was good, 123/77. That always makes my day.
I didn't gain any weight either,which is good for me, because of the GD and the fact that I am pretty much 60 lbs overweight to begin with.( I watch my sugars and the baby is growing well.)
I asked them to go over my old files about my ACTUAL condition with the last pregnancy.
Apparently I don't remember everything, ...imagine that;)
She said I had the PIH , and was entering HELLP syndrome when they got serious with the induction. Pretty much what I knew.
It was good to get that confirmation. I asked if that could have contributed to the hemmorhage, and she said yes,(the hellp,platelet count etc.)
We both said that things look good for now. I am going back in two weeks for my next visit instead of a month. I was happy about that. then it will be once per week after 28 weeks. HOLY CO-PAYS!
24 weeks and hanging in there!
Love, Jennifer
Mama to Bella, born 33 and 5/7 weeks at 3lbs,6oz.Pre-E and PIH,(borderline HELLP).
Babygirl #2,EDD 6/24/04


text: The perfect way for big sister to welcome a new baby into the family. Let your older child share in the new baby fun with this plush photo album from Baby Gund. The adorable cover features a picture of big sister and new baby, and the easy-carry handle lets her show it off. The album will help you share special moments with baby and teach them recognition skills. Holds 12 4 x 6" photos in plastic sleeves with color coordinating trim. Each one comes in a gift box with ribbon, perfect for sharing with that special someone.


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Please visit Tentmaker Resources Tentmaker on YouTube
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In this reply I am addressing the assertion that it is a real story that proves hell exists.Not only does the passage not mention hell it is a parable because Jesus started here speaking in a parable. Lk 15:3 And he spake this parable unto them, saying,There is no defining scripture that suggests it is anything but a parable.
Luke 16:19-31 Assertion: This is an actual story that proves hell exists, it is eternal, and sinners go there. Even if it's a parable, Jesus didn't talk about things that didn't/wouldn't really happen.


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Today it hit about 65, aka an awesome fall day.
98ºF right now. Looks like it will make it over one hundred degrees today. Enough already....
¡Que la fuerza te acompañe!
Lots of rain and somewhere in the 60's today. Wondering what winter has in store for us this year. After essentially no snow last year, I'm hoping we get a few decent storms this year.
Today's high will be in the low 50's and its quite windy. Fall isn't screwing around anymore.
Keeping fingers crossed! Three days ago, over 100º. Today, hasn't broken 80º at the time of this post. Overcast and cool by Wednesday's standards.
¡Que la fuerza te acompañe!
Cooling trend: we might even have RAIN next week. High only supposed to be low-80s today, some clouds.
"I went to Star Wars Celebration VII in Anaheim, and I didn't get even a lousy t-shirt."
High was in the low 50's, it was cloudy and windy all day. :crapweather:
75 today but it really didn't even feel like that. Tomorrow looks to be the same temp but with a bit of wind, I'm hoping to get a swim in. Then mid-week looks to rain.
Darth Vader is becoming the Mickey Mouse of Star Wars.
"In Brooklyn, a castle, is where dwell I"
The use of a lightsaber does not make one a Jedi, it is the ability to not use it.
A very brief, but very heavy storm yesterday. Clouds and cool temps today. Supposed to hit low-90s this weekend. Why?
"I went to Star Wars Celebration VII in Anaheim, and I didn't get even a lousy t-shirt."


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Since 1952, Honoring Courage in Journalism
Colby's Lovejoy Award, established in 1952, honors a member of the newspaper profession who continues Elijah Parish Lovejoy's heritage of fearlessness and freedom. The recipient may be an editor, reporter, or publisher who has contributed to the nation's journalistic achievement. Criteria include integrity, craftsmanship, character, intelligence, and courage.
Criteria | Selection Committee
James Risen, Reporter Facing Possible Jail, Urges Skepticism of Conventional Wisdom
James Risen, an investigative reporter who said he'd sooner go to jail than divulge confidential sources, praised Elijah Parish Lovejoy as a "disruptive force" and criticized the Obama administration for its crackdown on journalists and whistleblowers as he received the Lovejoy Award Oct. 5.
The Story of Lovejoy
Elijah Parish Lovejoy was born Nov. 9, 1802, in Albion, Maine, and graduated from Waterville College (now Colby) in 1826. On Nov. 7, 1837, in Alton, Ill., Lovejoy, a newspaper editor, became America's first martyr to the freedom of the press when a pro-slavery mob set fire to the building that housed his press. Killed as he attempted to extinguish the blaze, he was buried on Nov. 9, his 35th birthday
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Management of Peripheral Arterial Disease
TransAtlantic Inter-Society Consensus
Understanding PAD
Vascular Disease Foundation
Canadian Society for Vascular Surgery
Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada
American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association 2005 Practice Guidelines for the management of patients with peripheral arterial disease.
. 2006;113:e463-654.
Gey DC, Lesho EP, Manngold J. Management of Peripheral Arterial Disease.
Am Fam Physician
. 2004;69:525-532.
Lumsden AB, Rice TW. Medical management of peripheral arterial disease:a therapeutic algorithm.
J Endovasc Ther
. 2006;13(suppl 2)II19-29.
Mahmud E, Cavendish JJ, Salami A. Current treatment of peripheral arterial disease: role of percutaneous interventional therapies.
J Am Coll Cardiol
Peripheral arterial disease. American Family Physician website. Available at:
. Published February 2004. Accessed August 9, 2005.
Peripheral Arterial Disease and Claudication. Family Doctor.org website. Available at:
. Updated December 2009. Accessed October 18, 2010.
Peripheral vascular disease. American Heart Association website. Available at:
. Accessed August 9, 2005.
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Mayo Clinic website. Available at:
. Updated June 2009. Accessed July 24, 2009.
Peripheral arterial disease: what is it?. Vascular Disease Foundation website. Available at:
. Updated July 2009. Accessed July 24, 2009.
Regensteiner JG, Stewart KJ. Established and evolving medical therapies for claudication in patients with peripheral arterial disease.
Nat Clin Pract Cardiovasc Med
. 2006;3: 604-610.
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
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"I'd like to model my acting career on Dwayne Johnson, the way he came out of [WWE] and started off tough guy roles and then moved over to doing 'Tooth Fairy,'" the 24-year-old Jones told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) during an appearance at the UFC's "World Tour" in Los Angeles. "That's when you really saw that he could act, and he's the one I admire and respect a lot, so I know I'd love to model my acting career after (him)."
A scarce few have been able to transition as successfully from the ring to the screen as the former pro wrestler, but several MMA athletes are giving it their best. Randy Couture, Gina Carano, and most recently, UFC women's bantamweight champ Ronda Rousey are working in Hollywood in action movies.
As the youngest-ever UFC champ in history, Jones (18-1 MMA, 12-1 UFC) is no stranger to breaking down barriers. If he beats Gustafsson, he will become the most successful light-heavyweight in the promotion's history. That goal, and securing he and his family's financial future, keeps him focused on fighting. His bout next month against Alexander Gustafsson (14-1 MMA, 6-1 UFC) at UFC 165 is one more step on his current road.
The champ, however, is also looking life beyond fighting. At the start of this summer, he made the rounds of Hollywood studios and received some positive feedback about a potential acting career.
"Those meetings went great," Jones said. "I realize that they see that I have a little bit of character on me, and with the right training, I could possibly be in some movies in the future.
"As an entertainer, I think acting is one of the highest levels you can get, and right now, I'm doing pretty well in my field, which is the martial arts world. To branch out a little bit and get my feet wet there and maybe prepare myself for a career after this career, I think it's all part of the plan."
The ability to morph from a tough guy to dramatic actor might be the toughest skill Jones has to learn if he decides to jump into a new field, but he said he'll take it as seriously as fight camp.
"I'll definitely take a lot of classes," he said.


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There are several important differences between the 2014 Farm Bill and Sections10201 and 10202 of the 2008 Farm Bill. Those who submit Farm Bill project suggestions should be aware of the following changes:
1. Sections 10201 and 10202 of the 2008 Farm Bill have been combined into Section 10007 of the 2014 Farm Bill and given additional funding.
The language of the new Farm Bill consolidates Sections 10201 (Plant Pest and Disease Management and Disaster Prevention Programs) and 10202 (National Clean Plant Network) of the 2008 Farm Bill under Section 10007. It also gives additional funding to these programs.
For fiscal year (FY) 2014 through FY 2017, Section 10007 will provide $62.5 million annually for Plant Pest and Disease Management and Disaster Prevention Programs, including the National Clean Plant Network (NCPN), with a minimum of $5 million allocated to the NCPN. For FY 2018 and thereafter, the funding will increase to $75 million annually.
Cooperators who will submit project suggestions to prevent the introduction or spread of plant pests and diseases that threaten U.S. agriculture and the environment or seek funding to implement NCPN activities in FY 2015 and beyond will do so under Section 10007.
2. Language within Section 10007 of the 2014 Farm Bill caps "indirect costs" charged against cooperative agreements to 15 percent of the value of the agreement.
The 2014 Farm Bill restricts, within Section 10007 only, indirect costs to a maximum of 15 percent of the total Federal funds provided under the cooperative agreement, or, at a negotiated or other indirect cost rate cap established by law, whichever is less. Under the 2014 Federal budget, nonprofit organizations have a 10 percent cap on indirect costs. That cap continues to apply to indirect costs related to Farm Bill-funded projects because it is lower than 15 percent.
Indirect costs are generally not specific to a project but are needed by the cooperator for the general operation of the organization and the conduct of its activities. Examples of such costs include the operation and maintenance of buildings, grounds, and equipment; depreciation; and administrative salaries.
The Farm Bill team stands ready to assist you as we implement these changes. If you have any questions about these changes or about any other issue related to the 2014 Farm Bill, please e-mail the APHIS Farm Bill team at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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He calls me a princess, accustomed only to the best, demanding the glitter and comfort of luxury, the subtle hint of privilege. This reputation trails after me, wraps its gilded arms around me, drawing me into her soft embrace, leaving her tarnished stain all over my innocent face. Yet one wonders how I fell headlong into this princess status, how it clings to me like mud and won't let me go. Nothing, absolutely nothing in my past can account for this, nothing at all. A humble childhood spent in cheap catalogue clothing running barefoot on hard, scorching cement and tip-toeing through sticker-laden yards, a box full of hand-me-down Barbies and one single bagful of Lego's, tossing hoops in the driveway or playing board games with my brothers for entertainment. No horseback riding lessons, expensive designer labels, no days spent hanging out at the Clubhouse or maids cleaning up after me. Just a simple childhood full of laughter and sun, fresh air and books.
He maligns me with his accusations. After all, it is he who has spoiled me. Yes, we have had our fair share of gîtes ruraux, country rentals, and not the top-of-the-line either. Ramshackle, run-down country cottages, rooms on farms closer to the cows than the family, apartments with sunken fold-out sofas and sandy floors that no amount of sweeping can rid, even an old Tuscan tower, cold and damp, fitted up with kitchenette and bathroom. But I went along for the ride, barely complaining, suffered along as if I was back at Girl Scout Camp, nary a sidelong recriminatory glance. We've roughed it far and wide, I've slept in a puddle on a too-small-for-four penichette (houseboat) on the Maine and the Oudon, we've slogged through knee-deep mud and waist-high reeds and brambles all in the name of adventure, we squish into economy seats on airplanes and, well, been there done that. But he has taken me to enough Michelin-starred restaurants, pampered me in Palace hotels, treated me to better and better vacations bordering on luxury that I now shake my head in scorn when he even suggests something that hints at thin walls or questionable quality. "Spoiled you are!" he wails. Well, maybe I am. Now. Thanks to him.
Snuggled up in our cozy mountain inn with the promise of yet another luxurious, gourmet meal that evening, he pokes me awake as the sun streams through the crack in the curtains and it looks like another beautiful day, sunny and warm, perfect for another hike. Much to his joy, I slide into my jeans and hop into my big shoes, I grab my camera and we decide to head in another direction, not up into the mountain towards the distant peaks of snow but rather circle around the farms into the trees then around through another village or two. A mere 2-hour trek. Okay, I'm game. After all, he gave me the beautiful country inn and gastronomic delights, I'll offer this to him in return.
While yesterday's walk was up mountain paths bordered on each side by open fields and pastures, the bright sun highlighting the shades of greens and browns of the flora and bouncing off the backs of beasties large and small, this morning we suddenly find ourselves in shaded forest lanes, cool and eerily quiet, the romantic rustle of leaves and the sun shimmering through the thick filter above. Up and down, weaving in and out of the trees, stepping over branches, it is calm and relaxing, pure forest tranquility. The greens are richer, the browns deeper, birds flit through the leaves and we can peak down over the path edge and see quiet streams and rustic wells in all of their picturesque beauty below. We eventually wend our way out of this lush haven and find ourselves once again on the road leading back to the hotel. But the tiny pamphlet we had picked up at the local Tourist Office before heading off for adventure instructed us to cross the road and pick up the trail on the other side. We glance across the street and se a farmhouse and cows contentedly ruminating, calm and gentle. Inviting. Off we go.
And then we began our ascent. Blacktop road now but still bordering green forest broken only by the occasional glare from a curious, insolent cow or two. And up and up. "Just remember," he cajoled, "if it goes up, it eventually comes back down so just keeping walking and be patient." And walk we did, chatting happily about this and that. And walking. Up. And up. Finally when I thought that I could go no further, feared that my lungs would burst, biting back the complaints that threatened to tumble from my lips and upset him, we stumbled upon an old buron, a cow shed, and I decided that it was time for a sit, a rest and a cookie or two.
"Onward and upward! It's not much further, but we must get back to the hotel if you want lunch." Now, as cruel fate would have it, the road only continued to climb, steeper and steeper with less and less trees offering us shade. How much time had passed? Am I really this out of shape? Slip off the coat. Soon followed by the sweater. Bare armed and chest pounding I trudge along too many steps behind him. He stops every now and then to wait for me to catch up, making a joke, pointing out anything even remotely interesting to take my mind off of my suffering, teasing and making me laugh when he can. We pass one sorry excuse for a village, merely a house or two, a tractor inches its way up the path and eventually overtakes us and continues on the farmer's merry way never thinking to stop and offer us bedraggled city folk a lift. Occasionally JP glances down at the map and stabs at the page. "See? We're just here. Not much further. Come on, you can do it! This is real exercise, not a DVD in the living room!"
Well, all's well that ends well and no need to drag it out any longer than it was. How we managed to only climb up, never down, like caught in some bizarre Escher drawing always winding up and up and up I'll never understand, but we finally were welcomed back into the cool darkness of the hotel lobby and, strangely enough, we decided to climb in the car and drive down to the nearest city and treat ourselves to a MacDonald's lunch. Yes, I am embarrassed to admit it, but once in a while, every far and between blue moon, one needs the comfort of a fattening, greasy fast food meal, popping fries in one's mouth and sucking soda through a bendy straw. Happy, sated and ready for more.
That evening, our last in Pailherols, we were treated to Le Menu Découverte, The Discovery Menu; foie gras and scallops, fish and lamb all perfectly cooked, all delightfully flavored.
Using your favorite mix of either fresh or frozen berries, this is the perfect pie for anytime of the year, sweet and tart, light and refreshing, bursting with flavor. I use my all-time favorite Sweet Pastry Pie Crust, but you can use whatever recipe you like. The pie is absolutely gorgeous, its deep, rich, jewel-like color of fruit filling oozing out between the flaky, pale golden lattice crust; the filling was perfectly set, no sticky, cloying texture and all of the fruit, the frozen and the fresh, were wonderfully cooked, each tender and juicy, without any being either too hard and undercooked or overcooked and mushy. This may be the best fruit tart to come out of my kitchen yet!
One Double-Crust Sweet Pastry Pie Crust
5 cups (I filled glass measuring cups) mixed berries, fresh or frozen *
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
1/3 cup (40 g) flour
¼ to ½ tsp ground cinnamon
Grated zest of 1 lemon (optional)
* Blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, currents or strawberries, for example. I used 2 cups fresh, seasonal strawberries, 2 cups frozen blueberries and 1 cup frozen raspberries
Toss the sugar, flour, cinnamon and zest together in a small bowl and stir to combine. Place all of the fruit in a large bowl and, using your hands, toss with the flour/sugar mixture until all of the fruit is coated with the dry ingredients.
Prepare the Sweet Pastry Pie Crust:
2 ½ cups (315 g) cake flour
½ cup (or slightly less) (100 g) granulated sugar
14 Tbs (200 g) unsalted butter slightly softened and cubed **
2 large eggs, beaten
** most pie crust recipes call for the butter to be chilled. I have found that butter at room temperature is easier and quicker to work into the flour and the dough seems to be fluffier. If the dough is too sticky to roll out right away, several minutes in the fridge should do the trick.
Combine flour and sugar in a mixing bowl or on a work surface. Using only your thumbs and fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the consistency of sand and there are no more large chunks of butter.
With a fork, vigorously stir in the lightly beaten eggs until all the dry ingredients are moistened and a dough starts to pull together and form a ball.
Gather the dough together into a ball and place on a lightly floured surface. Using the heel of one hand, smear the dough little by little away from you in quick, hard strokes in order to make sure that all of the butter is blended in well (see here for a picture of how this is done).
Scrape up the dough together, re-flour the surface lightly and work very briefly and quickly until you have a smooth, homogenous dough. If the dough is a bit too soft or sticky for you, refrigerate it for 10 or 15 minutes until it can be easily rolled out without sticking to your rolling pin.
Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 10-inch (25-cm) pie plate or dish (I use pyrex). Cut the dough in two pieces, one half slightly larger than the other (this larger part will be the bottom crust). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough for the bottom crust until you have a circle about an inch (2 cm) wider all around than the bottom of the pie plate. Carefully roll up the dough around the rolling pin and lift and transfer to your pie dish, unrolling into the dish. Gently lift up the dough all around, sliding and pressing the dough down into the dish so as avoid stretching or breaking the dough. If the dough splits, no worry, it can simply be stuck and pressed together again. Using a knife or your rolling pin lying flat on top of the pie dish, cut off all excess dough hanging over the edges. Repress the sides of the dough back into the (crimped) sides of the pie dish.
Pour the prepared fruit filling into the pie dish and push the fruit around until evenly distributed and filling any gaps.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
On your floured work surface, roll out the remaining dough into a circle the size of your pie plate or slightly larger. Cut into even strips of any width. Form a lattice over the fruit filling:
Using every other strip from the cut circle of dough, space them evenly across the top of the pie, leaving the edges hanging loosely over the edge of the pie.
Start the latticework in the center, working your way out. Pull back every other strip and, using the longest of the remaining cut strips (the center one) lay it across the center of the pie.
Lower the upturned strips over the perpendicular (cross) strip. Lift up the alternating strips that are now underneath the cross strip. Lay a second cross strip parallel to the first center cross strip and continue lifting alternating vertical strips and laying new horizontal cross strips and so on and so forth. When finished laying the lattice from the center down towards you, rotate the pie dish and complete the second half of the pie.
Trim the edges of the dough strips and press (flour your fingers if they stick to the dough) the strips into the dough of the bottom crust. If you like, use any leftover dough to make decorative shapes for the top (I made strawberries and raspberries). "Glue" these shapes of dough onto the crust with a bit of milk. Gently and lightly brush the crust lattice with milk.
For more detailed photos of lattice-making, look here.
Bake the Mixed Berry Pie in your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 40 – 50 minutes, until the crust is golden and cooked. The fruit will be bubbling. If any part of the crust begins to brown too fast – the edges of mine began browning well before the center, simply cover with strips of aluminum foil.
Carefully remove from the oven and allow to cool on a cooling rack. The filling will firm up perfectly when cooled to room temperature.
Serve plain, with unsweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.