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License Terms and Conditions
for MAGIX Products (EULA)
The subsequent licensing terms/EULA are derived from the current versions of our products. For previous versions, different terms may apply. Access is intended solely for the purpose of user-friendliness. Only the terms affixed to the respective products are authoritative.
1. Contract purpose:
MAGIX grants you (the customer) a non-exclusive license for the respective MAGIX product for the contractual period of the agreement. You are granted the right to use the purchased software as well as the music and video files on a computer (with one CPU or on a multi-processor computer) or in a network under the condition that access is provided on only one network computer. If several network computers have access to the server, then a separate license is needed for each network computer (workstation). MAGIX retains ownership, copyright and other proprietary rights related to the software. You (the customer) acknowledge the licensor's ownership as well as all proprietary rights to the software, music and video files, backup copies, and documentation. The buyer of the program is solely responsible for the proper contractual use of the licensed programs.
The following applies concerning upgrades: Upgrades are more current or supplementary versions of a MAGIX product (basic product). Only owners of the basic product are authorized to receive each upgrade. You have to be the owner and user of the basic product to use the upgrades. An isolated circulation of an upgrade to third parties is not permitted.
2. Installation:
a) You will receive a unique serial number along with the software that you must enter during installation. An online activation modified for your CPU, i.e. your desktop, is also required. With the serial number you can activate the software up to three times if this is necessary due to hardware/CPU exchange. After this, MAGIX will make new activation codes available for your new CPU/hardware upon request. In both cases it is a prerequisite that the software is removed from your old hardware/CPU.
b) If a function requires a free or fee-based activation (e.g. codec activation), then it can be activated up to three times, should this become necessary due to replacement of hardware / CPU. If needed, MAGIX will provide you with additional activation codes upon request. You are not entitled to additional free activation codes. Activation can be done by fax, by post, or online.
3. License verification:
Individual software product licenses have to be validated periodically. This ensures that it is the original software and that it is being used according to the license terms and conditions. This requires an Internet connection. Should you not be online for an extended period, you will receive a corresponding message in the software prompting you to connect to the Internet.
4. Prohibition to copy and rent / other commercial use:
You are prohibited from copying the licensed program and the written documentation either partially or in its entirety. Creation of a software copy for back-up purposes is excluded from this provision.
The licensed program as well as the written documentation cannot be commercially rented out or commercially lent in any other form to a third party in exchange for payment. This also applies to lending of the software in a pre-installed form on a computer that is commercially offered to third parties in exchange for payment.
The product "Web Designer" may only be used strictly for non-commercial purposes. The use of other products including "Web Designer Premium" for commercial purposes shall be allowed insofar as their use it not contrary to point 1 to 7 of this agreement.
5. Transfer and subsidiary agreements:
The transfer of rights and obligations under this license contract to third parties is only permitted on authorization from MAGIX with the exception of personal transfer of the legally acquired MAGIX product by the rightful owner. In the case of the ownership of the rightfully acquired MAGIX product being transferred in this fashion, the original owner is obliged to destroy all back-up copies and to delete the installation. Keep in mind the general limitation to three activations as described in 2.b. during the transfer. If you require further activations, please contact MAGIX. A transfer of a MAGIX product not delivered on a physical data carrier (download version) is not permitted; an isolated transfer of the serial number is specifically prohibited. No verbal or written statements made by MAGIX or any MAGIX employee can alter or question the validity of this license agreement.
6. Amendment prohibition:
In accordance with §§ 69d & e UrhG (German Copyright Act), you may not make any changes to the licensed software, personally or by third parties. You may not disassemble the software into its components, nor modify the object code, decode, copy or use it in any way other than that foreseen in the contract.
7. Use of music, video and photo files:
The music, video and photo files as well as templates and their contained files which are included with MAGIX products may only be used within the scope of producing personally created works to be used for non-commercial purposes. This also applies to music, video or photo data as well as the corresponding templates acquired through or by means of MAGIX products. Commercial use constitutes receipt of financial benefits through direct or indirect use of the files (through sale, licensing, ad banners, etc.). This applies to the music, video and photo files as well as corresponding templates included with the product "Web Designer Premium" and "Photo & Graphic Designer" with the stipulation that these files may be used in the scope of the purchaser's own commercial website or to create and edit his or her own photos and graphics. A transfer to third parties for commercial purposes is not permitted. Exploitation outside the scope of personally created works of these music, video and photo files as well as the templates, is illegal. In particular, the photos contained in the templates may not be extracted and used separately for commercial or non-commercial purposes.
8. Compensation for damages:
MAGIX is entitled to proprietary and copyright protection for the licensed software as well as the music and video files. Anyone responsible for any violations against such rights may be sued by MAGIX.
9. Guarantee and liability:
a) You are aware that state of the art software programs and associated documentation may contain errors, and that it is not possible to develop data processing programs in such a way that they are error-free for all application conditions and all customer requirements, or error-free in conjunction with all third-party programs and hardware. MAGIX provides no assurances of particular features and usability related to planned Customer-specific applications.
b) If the programs are offered to the customer free of charge, the guarantee against deficiency in material and defects in title is limited to fraudulent concealment of defects by MAGIX in consideration of free licensing of the product.
Otherwise, liability of MAGIX is limited to instances of premeditation and gross negligence in consideration of the free licensing.
c) In the case of services provided in return for payment, MAGIX is liable for financial losses incurred from contractual and non-contractual claims including the incurrence of debt during contractual proceedings (on any legal grounds) solely to the following extent:
- Contractual and non-contractual obligation to compensate for damages on the part of MAGIX and its agents is given only in cases of violation of cardinal duties, where the customer is particularly entitled to expect fulfillment. Exclusion of liability does not apply to cases of bodily harm, intent and gross negligence.
- MAGIX's liability does not extend to contract-untypical and other unpredictable damages. Liability for impairment/loss of saved data, lost profits and direct and indirect consequential damage is expressly excluded, unless it can be proven that MAGIX acted with intent or gross negligence. The user understands, that to avoid damage and loss of your personal data it is strongly recommended to create regular back-ups. MAGIX, therefore, is only liable for damage arising from data loss which would have occurred even in the presence of an appropriate backup.
- In any event, MAGIX's liability is limited to four times the amount paid for the license fee by the customer. This exclusion does not apply to damage caused through intent or gross negligence on the part of MAGIX.
The Product Liability Law (ProdHaftG) applies as usual.
Deficiencies must be reported immediately on recognition and at the latest within 30 days. If within this period the customer establishes deviations between the program and the program description, he/she is entitled to send the deficient software back to the supplier and to demand appropriate corrective action. The deficiency must be redressed within a reasonable period, which may also be effected – at the discretion of MAGIX – through an appropriate replacement of the product or program version with a comparable performance scope. If such redress (incl. replacement) is not possible within a reasonable period or if the redress action fails, the Customer is then entitled to contract cancellation, conditional upon destruction of all copies made, or a reduction in price as appropriate.
d) In relation to functions that operate using an Online Server, MAGIX guarantees average server availability of 98% a year. This does not include times in which the server is not available over the Internet due to technical or other problems not under the sphere of influence of MAGIX (force majeure, third party defaults, etc.). MAGIX explicitly does not vouch that the conditions outside the software are available at all times and are indelible. MAGIX will nevertheless endeavor to provide the connection service for the agreed period, or, for the duration of the software lifecycle if no period was agreed upon, i.e. at least four years after the license was purchased.
MAGIX can temporarily limit or block access to the services, as long as this is to provide public safety, network safety, maintenance of network integrity and improved interoperability of the service, data protection, to counter spam or computer viruses or to render operationally or technically necessary services. The aforementioned limitations are exempt when calculating the stated service availability.
10. Licence conditions of other manufacturers:
If the licensed product contains additional software, or should additional software be integrated, then compliance with the use and license conditions of the manufacturer of said delivered additional software is also compulsory. If the licensed product contains additional software, you can view the appropriate use and licensing terms in the corresponding file.
11. Support:
Registered users receive electronic Internet support during the warranty period. The free support encompasses clarification of installation questions and installation problems by Internet or email.
12. Validity of contractual conditions:
Should one or more of the conditions in this contract be or become invalid, this will not affect the validity of the remaining contract. A substitute provision will replace the invalid condition, such as comes closest to the intended purpose. The contract is subject to the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany.


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August 5, 2015
NASA will honor the seven astronauts who perished when the space shuttle Columbia was destroyed 10 years ago.
The space agency will mark the anniversary Friday at a public memorial service at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Speakers include Evelyn Husband Thompson, who was married to the shuttle's commander.
The accident on Feb. 1, 2003, killed six Americans and Israel's first astronaut. They were returning home from a 16-day science mission when the shuttle disintegrated over Texas, just minutes from landing in Florida.
An investigation board later determined the cause was damage to the wing that occurred during liftoff. The shuttles were grounded for more than two years, and resumed flying with more safety features in place. The shuttles retired in 2011.
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
Kenneth Jay Lane
Black Resin & Crystal Earrings
- Color:
- black
Qty: 1
- 1
- 2
- 3
Please select an available size.
Please select a size.
Share This Item: Email
Description: Imitation rhodium plated base metal earrings with clear crystal and black resin details
- 1.18 inches long
- ¾ inches at widest point
- Clip-on closure
Material: Imitation rhodium plated base metal, glass, and resin
Brand: Kenneth Jay Lane
Origin: Imported


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I seem to be having an issue that either no one else ever had or no one knows how to fix. I've researched several different forums and can't find a definite answer. I've accepted the fact that i'm not an expert and could be doing something wrong that is painfully obvious to others. Here's what is happening.
I got Windows Home Server 2011 installed on a fairly new Dell desktop. It far exceeds the hardware requirements. I added user accounts to correspond to the accounts on the computers that i was going to install the connector software on. I installed the connector software on my desktop and my laptop. The WHS Dashboard works on both machines no problem. Most of the functions on the Launchpad work too, except for one. On neither my laptop or my desktop I can't get the Remote Web Access function to work. When I click it, it starts my default browser, attempts to connect to https://SERVERNAME.homeserver.com, but returns an "Internet Explorer cannot display the webpage" message.
The only way to get the page to load is to use the IP of the server in the address bar. When I do this I get a certificate error.
Researching this issue I was told that because the certificate is self signed I'll always get a certificate error. Anyways, I click "Continue to this website (not recommended)" and I am greeted with the login page. I log in using an admin user on the box and I am able to see content and browse shared folders. Now this all works as intended except for two functions. When I select browse pictures, I sometimes get a red X instead of a picture thumbnail. This issue is insignificant though. My second issue is I am unable to remote to the server (Dashboard) or my other PCs (If I'm on the desktop i can't remote to the laptop. If I'm on the laptop I can't remote to my desktop). The error I get is "Your computer can't connect to the remote computer because the Remote Desktop Gateway server address requested and the certificate subject name do not match. Contact your network administrator for assistance".
Its important to note that the Remote Web Access works outside my network. I'm able to use my laptop at work, school, coffee shop, etc to connect and browse, remote, upload/download all day long with no issues. I can also access it from other peoples computer with no issue. Every function works just as advertised. Now if I could only figure out what is going wrong when I'm on my home network...
I did some general troubleshooting ; disabled firewall, checked router settings, released the domain name and recreated it. A forum mentioned routers not supporting loopback. I don't know what that is. I use a Netgear WNR1000 v2. I'm not sure if that's the case here but I'm hoping someone much smarter than I has seen an issue similar to this. Please help.


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Women's Tennis Opens Big 12 Conference Play
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Riding the momentum of a three-match win streak, the West Virginia University women's tennis team opens Big 12 Conference play this weekend, as it hosts No. 27 TCU on Friday, at 1 p.m., and No. 36 Baylor on Sunday, at 11 a.m., at the Ridgeview Racquet Club.
"This is an exciting moment for our program, as we usher in a new era," says coach Tina Samara. "The Big 12 Conference is one of the premier tennis conferences in the country, so we will need to make sure that we are playing and competing to the best of our abilities for the rest of the season."
The Horned Frogs (9-1) feature three singles players ranked in the ITA top 125 (No. 65 Stefanie Tan, No. 79 Olivia Smith and No. 104 Simona Parajova) and one doubles combo ranked in the ITA top 80 (No. 42 Millie Nichols/Smith).
The Bears (5-10) also feature three ranked singles players (No. 12 Ema Burgic, No. 121 Victoria Kisialeva and No. 124 Megan Horter), and, they have two doubles combos (No. 25 Burgic/Kisialeva and No. 72 Jordaan Sanford/Burgic) that are ranked.
"Both of these teams are very talented squads, as you can tell by the number of ranked players that they feature," Samara says. "Despite what their record shows, Baylor is a solid team that has scheduled very aggressively in the first half of the year, as 13 of their 15 matches have come against opponents ranked in the top 47 of the ITA's rankings. Our match against TCU will be equally as challenging, as they feature a lineup that has great depth and seasoning."
The Mountaineers began their three-match win streak on March 3, when they defeated Marquette, 5-2. They then quickly followed that up this past weekend with a 7-0 drubbing of California (Pa.) on Friday and a 6-1 defeat of Rutgers on Saturday.
Friday's shutout victory over the Vulcans was WVU's first since March 13, 2011, when they blanked Providence. Furthermore, WVU's victory over the Scarlet Knights was its first since 2007.
"Even though we have won three straight, we haven't done it while playing our best tennis" Samara said. "That can be a good sign that we are winning despite not playing our best, but we can't expect that to give us a chance to win against these teams. We will need to be ready to play from the first serve of the doubles matches in order to give ourselves an opportunity to compete. We have to bring intensity and focus from the start of the match."
Heading into the weekend, Ikttesh Chahal and Hailey Barrett are tied for the team lead in singles victories, with six, while doubles partners Audrey Wooland and Emily Mathis lead the team in doubles wins with seven. Mathis also leads the team in combined victories, with 12.
Along with being the first Big 12 Conference matches in program history, this weekend's matchups against TCU and Baylor will also be the first time the teams have met in program history.
A full recap of each dual match will be available on WVUsports.com following the completion of competition.
WVU Women's Tennis, Big 12 Women's Tennis, NCAA Women's Tennis
Men's Basketball: Bahamas Preview
Womens Soccer: Kadeisha Buchanan Press Conference
Big 12 Media Days: Dana Holgorsen
Women's Soccer: Amanda Hill and Mocha
Big 12 Media Days: Nick Kwiatkoski
Football: Dana Holgorsen on ESPN


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User Tip: If you're unsure of your vehicle type, you may skip the machine type selection box.
Select type, make, model and year above
"Customer service is priority #1 at Rocky Mountain ATV/MC. We value our customers and strive to be the best shopping experience- when you buy from us, you are buying lifetime service."
-Dan Thomas, CEO and Founder
We take pride in offering no hassle returns. In the event of a return, please call, email or chat with us to receive a solution to the problem. For apparel that doesn't fit quite right, Click here to see our Fit Guaranteed Program.
We will stand behind all products we sell with regards to manufacturing defects in workmanship and material. Most products are limited to the manufacturer's warranty. However, we will do everything in our power to take care of the problem.
Live chat: Click here
(Leave email if after hours)
Call us: 1 800 336-5437
7am-7pm Mon-Fri 8am-4pm Sat (Mountain Standard Time)
Each review submitted enters you into a $100 gift card monthly drawing, and a $500 gift card quarterly drawing!
Comments On Mar 18, 2015:The fmf silencer woke the bike up with a lot more power
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Comments On Oct 12, 2014:better power thru-out bottom to top end. Just love the difference it has made.
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Comments On Oct 07, 2014:One thing I noticed is the quality has dropped or material used is of less quality. The power core II does the job, sounds great but after a few rides and washes I notice some rusting that should not have happened.
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Comments On Sep 08, 2014:Top notch quality, fit and finish!! Extremely satisfied!
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Comments On Aug 18, 2014:FMF quality and factory look and sound. I paired this with the Gold series Fatty pipe. Great power gain! Long live 2 strokes!!!
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Comments On May 24, 2014:Brand new, went on the bike with no problems and sounds amazing. it really did give the bike a little more life too. would buy again
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Comments On May 12, 2014:These are a bullet proof little can. You lose a small amount of top end but significantly gain bottom end.
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Comments On Apr 10, 2014:Put it on a CR500 with a gnarly pipe. Awesome set up. Great power and sound.
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Comments On Mar 23, 2014:great silencer
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Comments On Feb 19, 2014:silencer is short at the fitting to the head pipe of the Gnarly and has a tremendous amount of slop. I gooped a bunch of orange RTV and hope it dries enough to keep from leaking. Pretty disappointed and will move on to something else if the the ridiculous band aid fix of hi-temp sealant doesn't work..... Shame on FMF. I won't hassle RMATV with a refund request, they rule.
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text: Roasted Chestnut is a dark chocolate brown with bronzy sparkle and shimmer. This one needs to be pressed and "crushed," because it is one of the chunkier pigments of the four. It holds together nicely once it's been applied, though. It has opaque color when applied dry, though it is softer and less intense than when it is applied damp. The dry color is a bit like MAC Buckwheat, while Laura Mercier Cedar compares favorably to the color it is when applied damp.


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C6472 EVM EEPROM boot utility
Log of /6472evm_eeprom/trunk/EEPROM_flash_image_gen/I2Cboot/input/i2cconfig.txt
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Kit-Cat Clock
Kooky Kit-Cat, the Clock With the Moving Eyes
Kit-Cat Clock
Kooky Kit-Cat, the Clock With the Moving Eyes
As time ticks and tocks, Kit-Cat's googly eyes roll and his black tail swishes. Designed in the 1930s to bring a zany smile to the Depression era, this dapper cat—note bow tie—knows how to cheer up tough times. Updated to include 21st-century plastic materials. Felix, as he's also known, runs on two C batteries (not included). Measures a compact 4" wide, 2½" deep, and 8½" long, with a 6½" tail.
- Kit-Cat Clock looks just like he did in the Depression era
- Runs on 2 C batteries (not included)
- Kit-Cat is also known as Felix
Kit-Cat brings a smile to everyone's face as he ticks the seconds away with a roll of his eyes and a swish of his tail.
Kit-Cat Clock
PVC Plastic
Wipe with damp cloth. Requires 2 C batteries (not included).
Assembly Required: Y
Cord Polarized: N
Manufactured In: USA
Material - Country Of Origin: USA


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Members visit free all year! Purchase and visit today.
Avoid the line! Print your tickets at home.
"It was so much fun to watch the students' reactions when completing their scavenger hunt and having an opportunity to observe the animals in person and make different connections of why they're endangered based from their research. Thanks again for your efforts, and I look forward again to reconnecting in the future about ways to collaborate together." - Bill Fikioris, Erdenheim Elementary
"Thank you for our amazing trip yesterday! Your staff was extremely helpful and great with our kids. We really appreciate all of the work that you do and the fact that our students can have these experiences due to your program. Many of them had never been to a zoo before and were elated to be there and learn about the animals and conservation programs." - Jessica Donahue, Harrison-Morton Middle School
"I teach a course in informal science learning at the College of New Jersey for preservice teachers. For the past two years, we have visited the zoo as part of our course, and each time, the students have raved about the excellent educators at the zoo. Each staff member we came across was knowledgeable, friendly, and approachable. They engaged me, my students, and many visitors (children and adults) that we observed on our trip in meaningful science learning in a fun, informal environment." - Lauren Madden, Ph.D., The College of New Jersey
The Philadelphia Zoo offers a rich variety of formal PreK-12 programming to meet your curriculum needs. From onsite classes and tours to our Unless Contest, these curriculum-focused programs provide numerous possibilities for 21st Century learning including science, technology, math, social studies and specifically address the common core as well as Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware academic standards.
Rethink Recycling in this cross-curricular project-based learning opportunity.


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Hit-making machines that inspire nostalgia invade Les Schwab Amphitheater this weekend, with the Steve Miller Band playing Friday night and Barenaked Ladies on Saturday. I didn't interview either, but instead used Daniel Levitin's best-selling book "This Is Your Brain On Music" as a basis for a piece on how music affects our memories and emotions. An excerpt:
Both bands evoke immediate and distinct reactions from people, not necessarily because of the way those songs are built — though a catchy melody or well-played guitar lick never hurt anyone — but because, as Levitin describes, our experiences and emotions are closely tied to the music that we hear.
That close tie can be found deep in the brain, where the hippocampus — a structure crucial to memory retrieval — sits right next to the amygdala, which Levitin describes as "the seat of emotions" in mammals. The amygdala is activated by an experience or memory with strong emotional components, and Levitin's studies show that music activates not only that part, but the nearby hippocampus as well.
Under a relatively new group of theories known as multiple-trace memory models, "each experience we have is preserved in high fidelity in our long-term memory system" and is waiting to be unlocked by groups of neurons configured in a particular way, according to Levitin. Think of those neurons as cues for your memories.
"A song playing comprises a very specific and vivid set of memory cues," Levitin writes. And then: "The music that you have listened to at various times in your life is cross-coded with the events of those times. That is, the music is linked to events of the time, and those events are linked to the music."
I was pretty happy with how this turned out, and I really do hope you'll read the whole thing by clicking here.
Bend's own Ritchie Young and Dave Depper will bring their high-flying indie-folk band Loch Lomond to their home town Thursday to play the Tower Theatre as part of the PDXchange Program. I chatted with Young about the band, its beginnings, and its future:
Now, though, that new album is done, and Young hopes to have it out early next year. He calls it "not as folky" as Loch Lomond's most recent full-length, "Paper The Walls," but also "definitely not straightforward."
It is, in Young's words, "maybe a cross between what we were doing before and early Genesis."
Whatever it is, the new album will come on the heels of the band's recent tours supporting Portland mega-indie acts The Decemberists and Blitzen Trapper. Which means more people know about the band, and more people will be paying attention when it's released.
Not that Young and his mates are going to let that kind of attention or pressure affect the way they do things.
"We don't think of it that way. We tour a lot, and we try at every show wherever we're at to play our best and represent the band in the best way possible," he said. "If we wanted to explode overnight or had that expectation, it would've destroyed the band long ago. We really love touring, we really love each other and we just have a blast playing.
"When good things happen, we're very excited," Young continued, "but I think it'll kill a band faster than anything to say, 'This is our chance. This is the record that's going to break.' We're not the biggest band in the world, but when we go out, people show up and people like the band."
Please click here to read the whole thing.
Elsewhere in this week's music section: "Southern raconteur" Paul Thorn plays the Summer Sunday show, guitar wizard Ottmar Liebert returns to the Tower, Afro Classics fill the Domino Room with quality hip-hop, Prayers for Atheists mix rap, punk and politics and The Substitutes founder Don Hoxie holds a listening party for his new CD, plus Paula Cole, Halestorm, Blvd Park, and a big weekend at Angeline's Bakery. And if that doesn't quench your thirst, check out all the options in The Bulletin's complete music listing.


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Sunday, December 16, 2012
I never talk about my political convictions on my blog although heaven knows they are strong enough, an integral part of my being. My blog, for the moment (and I stress this point), is about food and my life in France. Although I often write about difficult moments and personal tragedy, although I sometimes wax eloquent on the tough decisions my husband and I are forced to make when at a particularly stressful crossroad, I still keep my politics out of it. Little do my readers know or understand the role my political beliefs played in my leaving the States to search for another country, another culture, to see how the rest of the world handles such topics that have an impact on my life, that mean a lot to me.
But once in a while, my anger and outrage get the better of me. At a moment such as this, after what happened in Newtown, I cannot reign in my emotions nor can I contain my words. Columbine, Virginia Tech, Aurora, Portland, Newtown, the world watches the images roll across the television screen over and over and over again. And I stand and watch, stunned and enraged, and wonder when Americans will simply say Enough!
I have been reading articles and Facebook posts about this tragedy, another tragedy in a long line of tragedies, claiming forbearance, asking each of us to put aside our politics, not to allow the urge to blame this person or that entity get the better of us in this time of mourning. They say this is no time to start the debate or ask for legislation; this, they say, is a time to remember the dead, a time to pray, light candles, gather, hands held, united as a country and hug our loved ones close to us. Respect for the dead comes, for now, they say, in putting all of our thoughts and energy into thinking of a better, a Utopian world in which men and women and tiny children do not die at the hands of a gun-crazed lunatic on a shooting rampage, that shaking one's fist and crying for something to be done is an injustice and tarnishes their memory. And groups of food bloggers are asking for each of us to observe a "Silent Monday" in memory of the dead, a social media Day of Observance. But I cannot do this. My way of showing respect for those babies and all those whom have died of gun violence is to stand up and make my voice heard, to get angry and scream my outrage at the top of my lungs. My way of showing respect for these innocent victims whose own voices have now been silenced forever is to try and make sure that something this unfathomable, this horrific never happens again.
I cannot stay silent. We have been silent for much too long.
And so I post this here today on my food blog. The following piece was written in the heat of the moment as the television behind me was blaring the news of the shooting. These are words that have come straight from the heart. I am sad, heartbroken for the victims and for my country. I am angry and outraged that this has been allowed to happen, nurtured by a long-standing gun culture and the fear of our politicians to stand up to political bullies and just say Enough! Feel free to remain silent or shout your pain and anger from the rooftops; we each deal with this in our own private way, and this is mine.
There has been a spate of gun violence in France this past year: political assassinations in Corsica; gang-related shootings in Marseilles; bungled jewelry shop burglaries in Paris. And the most shocking of all was a seemingly random hit-and-run style rampage over a period of more than a week in Toulouse and Montauban this past March in which seven people were killed, three of whom were children and three of whom were military men. In a country with such strict gun laws and regulations, this all seems rather unimaginable and leaves the public not so much outraged as stunned and dazed. How can this happen here in France? Yet the slow infiltration of illegal guns into France is as real as those innocents who are dead.
But nothing comes even close to what is happening in the United States. A war zone without the war. Innocents by the dozens being razed down at such banal and public places as shopping malls, movie theaters, high schools, post offices, universities and now an elementary school with no rhyme or reason. From simple handguns to military-style automatic weapons, strapped to bodies, arsenals found in bedrooms, we watch in horror as we realize how our fellow citizens are able to arm themselves to the teeth with ease, stockpile to their hearts' content. Barely a week goes by, or so it now seems, that we aren't crying our eyes out and wringing our hands as the news floods in about yet another shooting. But what are we doing about it?
Very little. And why? Isn't it obvious by now? From the NRA to the Tea Party, too many Americans and their gun-clutching political lobbies are shouting about freedom and liberty. They shake the Constitution in front of our faces and recite the few words that make up the Second Amendment as if it is the only thing that holds are country together, the only thing, fragile and beautiful, that makes our country the "land of the free and the home of the brave". Some tenuous interpretation of "the right of the people to keep and bear arms", written and adopted in 1791 as the United States government was struggling to guarantee their citizens' freedom in the shadow of imperial rule, has become, for many, the cornerstone of their politics; the guarantee of everyone's right to walk into any gun shop and buy an arsenal equivalent to our collective and individual "pursuit of happiness". They have succeeded in making us believe that real patriots love guns and refuse all gun restrictions.
And then there is the religious contingency. Former governor and presidential candidate Mike Huckabee decries – and seems to put the blame on – the removal of God and religion from schools. Connecticut's own governor Dan Malloy stated immediately in the wake of the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School that "Evil visited this community today…" as if speaking of some hooded and cloaked creature straight out of a Harry Potter novel that can only be held off with magic spells and pure hearts. We hold vigils, light candles, organize prayer meetings, flood into churches. And skirt around the issue of guns. We hide behind Bibles and flags and avoid an actual adult debate about firearms. We avoid the responsibility of making choices, refrain from bringing politics into our struggle to accept yet another tragic mass shooting, loathe discussing the hard facts while soothing the weeping families.
And then, when we do get around to it, there is the debate itself. The idiots at Fox News try and reason – if reason is a word that can be used in this discussion – that with or without a gun, Jovan Belcher would have killed his girlfriend anyway. Someone that big and strong, they argued, would just have throttled her to death if that was what he really wanted to do. Maybe. But maybe not. How easy did having that loaded gun make it? How fast and impersonal? Do they realize how difficult it is to strangle someone to death? Do they realize how psychologically different it is having to physically touch someone, be body to body, feel them writhe under one's touch, struggle and gasp, have to look into their terror-filled eyes? Taking a gun, pointing and shooting is impulsive; one does not even have to look at the other person or be near that person. It is over in a second. Take that gun out of a violent partner or spouse's hand and how many women (or children or parents, for that matter) would still be living?
And the insensitivity, the outrageous arrogance and smugness of the NRA whose Executive Vice President said only this year that "anything less than 1,000 dead kids (in school shootings) would not be enough for the NRA to stop urging Congress to pass pro-gun legislation." Really? I wonder if he feels the same after Friday's senseless massacre in Newtown.
And how many children are killed by gunfire every year? According to IANSA, International Action Network on Small Arms, just over 3,000 a year. How many of these were accidents in the home, just a couple of kids finding a parent's firearm and seeing how it worked, or making it into a game? Yes, those same defenders of our supposed right to own guns claim, accidents do happen. But how many of those 3,000 innocent children would still be alive today if it was not for the availability of guns and ammunition?
Do not try and defend gun ownership to me as somehow safeguarding my every freedom. Do not throw the Second Amendment in my face as if A well-regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. is somehow a good enough reason for anyone to walk into a gun show and purchase a semi-automatic or two.
What kind of militia were they forming, what kind of imperialism were they fighting those two boys who killed 12 fellow students and teachers at Columbine? What kind of freedom allowed for them to have an arsenal of weapons, allowed them to purchase thousands of rounds of ammunition at a Walmart? How does allowing a mentally unstable student or a man with "some form of autism" or, for that matter, my own father who was sold a rifle while he was suffering from dementia, how does allowing these people to legally buy guns preserve our own freedoms, defend someone's own interpretation of the second amendment? Carry a gun to church, school, the supermarket… now we seem to be urging more Americans to carry more guns more places and for what? To protect themselves against somebody else who has a gun. Like some insane return to the Wild Wild West. What kind of freedom is this defending?
Isn't the freedom to go to school, go to a movie theater or a shopping mall or the office without the fear of being razed down by a lunatic wielding an arsenal of handguns and automatic weapons more important than the freedom to buy and stockpile guns? Isn't the freedom for those teens killed in Columbine, those young adults at Virginia Tech or those children in Newtown to celebrate Hanukkah or Christmas, to celebrate their next birthday, to grow up, graduate, marry and have children of their own, more important than any American's freedom to buy an assault weapon? Where is their freedom? What protects their liberty?
Enough is enough. When do we as Americans put aside our own selfishness, our own flag-waving, heart-crossing ideology and look at the reality of what is happening in our country? It takes courage for politicians to stand up to the political bullies and engage in serious debate and make serious, effective decisions. Some people say that we shouldn't be bringing this up now, just the day after Newtown. Some people say that this is the time for remembering, praying, drying tears and pulling together as a united country. I say now couldn't be a better time to take action, now as the wound is fresh and bleeding, now as we are crying for yet more of our fellow Americans, now as we are watching 20 children being carried to their graves rather than decorating Christmas trees and opening gifts. We must do more than simply hold hands and light candles. We need to say no to the NRA, we need to take drastic measures to get guns off the streets, make more types of weapons illegal and the rest absolutely more difficult to purchase. And we need a strong program re-educating and re-sensitizing our young people as to the horrors of guns and gun deaths.
Sixteen years ago, a lone gunman armed with four handguns, walked into a primary school in Dunblane, Scotland and shot and killed sixteen children and one adult, shocking not only the nation but the world as well. Immediate public outcry and media-driven public petitions created a real debate on gun ownership and the demand for immediate government action. The lives of children became more important, overrode the public's interest in any kind of freedom or liberty associated with firearm ownership, and within a year the British government enacted extremely tough gun laws, effectively making private ownership of handguns illegal in the United Kingdom. I remember two years later when a man (naked, but that's besides the point) stormed into a church in the UK wielding a sword indiscriminately attacking churchgoers. Not a gun, a sword. He injured eleven people. Killed? None.
56 comments:
- Ilva Beretta said...
I cannot but agree Jamie, well said-we mustn't be silent!
- December 16, 2012 at 11:48 PM
- Mairi @ Toast said...
I couldn't agree with you more, being from Dunblane & having gone to the primary school it always touches a cord. So I am more than not a fan of guns. Even here on the radio on the way home there were some cretins advocating that if the teachers had had guns in the classroom it may have been OK....I am not sure what planet they are on, I only know how angry it makes me. That & all those that seem to thinking that being able to enter shooting competitions is more important than peoples lives. Whereas in Dunblane we could all understand the outcry....it actually helped, as at least something was being done to stop such a tragedy happening again. We can only hope that something is done soon to try & stop any more senseless tragedies.
- December 16, 2012 at 11:55 PM
- Ivy said...
I totally agree with you Jamie. I tried to leave a comment earlier but could not. The law should change and not sell guns so easily. I am glad that I live in Greece and maybe we are facing a tragic economic situation but we feel safe and would not trade that with anything.
- December 16, 2012 at 11:56 PM
- Jamie said...
@Mairi @ Toast: Thank you and your comment brought tears to my eyes. xo
@Ilva: Thank you xo
- December 16, 2012 at 11:57 PM
- marjay said...
I also left America. 1972 was the year. Since then I have lived mainly in New Zealand where even the police normally do not carry guns,but also in Australia and France. There is another way to live but sadly Americans are blinded. Speak out and hope they at long last listen. Thank you.
- December 17, 2012 at 12:45 AM
- Denise said...
I couldn't agree more Jamie. Your perspective from being an American living in Europe is very insightful in this difficult issue. Enough is enhough.
- December 17, 2012 at 12:45 AM
- Finla said...
Well said Jamie, do we need a silent Monday,some might say yes some might say no, but what I personally think is how can one keep quiet after what one have seen these last days.
- December 17, 2012 at 12:52 AM
- Jamie said...
@Finla: Exactly! Thank you!
- December 17, 2012 at 12:54 AM
- Deeba PAB said...
Thank you! Words like this must be said. It's ironical to talk of being a developed world, let people arm themselves and see same thing happen time and gain. How many more incidents will it take to change the law. I live in the so called 'developing' part of the world, but am happy to say that I feel safer. It's time to draw a line ... let the state take charge, let them hold the gun. Enough is enough.
- December 17, 2012 at 1:03 AM
- Aparna said...
You've said everything that's been on my mind.
I don't live in the US and as an "outsider" I'm have no idea about a lot of policies behind various deciisions including gun (un)control laws there.
But as a citizen of the world, I cannot begin to understand the need for anyone to carry guns for personal use (even under a license) in a civilized society.
Yes, I understand how gun laws came into being in the good old days, and also that there's a strong lobby of gun manufacturers who wouldn't want to change things as they are for obviously selfish reasons.
But I don't understand how the general American public is unable to vote for a change in gun laws despite seeing so many horribly wrong deaths of innocent children and adults time and time again.
I'm seeing all sorts of explanations including mental ill health, but can't they see that anyone who picks up a gun to shoot someone can do so only because that gun is there to pick up, within easy reach.
- December 17, 2012 at 1:10 AM
- Sally - My Custard Pie said...
Well said. There is a very well reasoned article doing the rounds in response to this tragedy about the media glorification of the perpetrators by the media written my Morgan Friedman. However his last statement is unsettling: "You can help by donating to mental health research instead of pointing to gun control as the problem."
There are not more mad people in the US than other less violent societies. There are more guns...in people's hands.
Watch Bowling for Columbine to see what tragic nonsense the NRA and the other gun-touting political groups are spouting.
- December 17, 2012 at 1:23 AM
- Nanette said...
Damn it Jamie Schler you've managed to cut through all the political bullshit and address the key issue, that being that your beloved America needs to take back control from the NRA and become the land of the free once again!
- December 17, 2012 at 1:37 AM
- Nuts about food said...
Thank you for speaking out. This is exactly the time to discuss these issues, when we still feel raw about what happened. I, an American, watch in shock from a country where buying/owning a weapon is much more difficult. It doesn't solve the problem but it certainly helps.
- December 17, 2012 at 1:48 AM
- Maryam in Marrakesh said...
I agree with every single word (as another American not living in the US, and ashamed, so ashamed). I am a great admirer of President Obama and donated to his campaign repeatedly. But if he doesn't take this opportunity to do something, he will have lost me.
- December 17, 2012 at 2:11 AM
- WiseMóna said...
Jamie.... You are - for so many reasons - an inspiration. So well said and I am glad you did not stay quiet.
I can only hope that the law will change to protect the lives of the innocent and that is something we will all vote and campaign for.
Broken hearted here too x hugs to you from Iland.
- December 17, 2012 at 2:24 AM
- Jill said...
Jamie, you couldn't have put this better. Well said from the heart! I remember the Dunblane shooting and at least something was done about it. I was in NYC around the corner from the other crazy shooting this year. It wakes you up. You're so right to say stop the silence and do something. Let's pray Obama can really get through and people wake up to take positive action.
Well done on your piece. It should be not just in the Huffington Post!
- December 17, 2012 at 2:34 AM
- Not Quite Nigella said...
So beautifully and yet logically put Jamie. It has to change because as you say it's a war zone without a war. I love visiting America but the guns scare me senseless. And the religious aspect is also so strong! :o
P.S. Oops re twitter mention of Huff Po article. I thought I read that you were writing this for them but I must have been mistaken.
- December 17, 2012 at 2:44 AM
- Heather Schmitt-Gonzalez said...
Thank you, Jamie. For your conviction and the courage to voice it.
- December 17, 2012 at 3:09 AM
- Sarah said...
The repercussions of these shootings are not only felt by the family and friends of the victims. It changes America. Instead of freedom to live in peace, fear, suspicion and anger encroaches on everyday life. It becomes a constant part of it. Guns need to be regulated and out of the hands of children and the mentally ill (facilities to accommodate the latter is another pressing issue). It is sad that in Israel, considered one of the more turbulent areas of the world, I feel safe in my home and in public places. Contrary to what many believe, it is very difficult to obtain a license for a gun and entails a high level of responsibility. America needs to change their mentality about gun ownership. It is not a basic right, but a threat to society.
- December 17, 2012 at 3:28 AM
- Sam @ My Carolina Kitchen said...
I believe this current president will do something about it, or at least try. He doesn't have to worry about reelection, so he has nothing to lose politically. I can't believe the ban on assault weapons disappeared after its time was up. I hope at least it will be restored.
- December 17, 2012 at 3:33 AM
- Mardi @eatlivetravelwrite said...
Thank you Jamie for speaking out. I understand the need for respect through the day of silence but ultimately, speaking out and voicing opinions is needed too. Thank you for saying what so many of us cannot put as eloquently.
- December 17, 2012 at 3:55 AM
- Jenn said...
Thank you Jamie, for saying so much more than a silent form letter ever could. I still cannot comprehend such a tragedy, it brings me to tears every time I think about it.
- December 17, 2012 at 4:00 AM
- Barbara Bakes said...
It's a shame you actually get Fox News in France - hopefully it's just clips. I watched Mike Huckabee on Facebook and couldn't believe that was his take away from the tragedy.
President Obama spoke to the families last night and said he will work for change. I hope so, but wouldn't hold my breath. The NRA is powerful and determined to stay that way. They rake in so much money every year that it isn't about the guns any more for them. It's about money.
- December 17, 2012 at 4:01 AM
This has driven me over the edge with anger. I unfriended a couple of people on FB after my rant on Friday because I noticed that they didn't unfriend me and still posted beyond cretinous updates or comments of the "what if one of those teachers had been armed?" variety. One of them has four grown kids. Oh ok, so apparently because you're a psycho whose kids are already grown and out of school, it's fine for people whose children are small to have teachers and administrators carry lethal arms around "their" kids.
There's a point where I give up on the notion of *let's agree to disagree/I respectfully disagree with you* and I have to just say I'm sorry but I refuse to be associated with you because you are either a total moron or a total asshole or both.
On a more level-headed note, in a column on the Atlantic about this, someone made a very good point that "everybody packing" besides being the stupidest.suggestion.ever, does not create equal perception of everyone who is carrying a weapon, e.g. if you are african-american, hispanic or middle eastern or hispanic, carrying a gun, however legally, opens you up to being potentially viewed as respectively a criminal, a criminal, or a terrorist. That's obviously not something that people who cling to their semi-automatic weapons would ever consider since many of the same people who advocate for their beloved semi-automatics are white.
I was reminded yesterday about how growing up in LA in the late 80s and early 90s, there was that spate of freeway shootings where people just started shooting at each other because someone cut them off or whatever stupid reason. It is inconceivable to me that anyone would think more people having more guns makes any sense at all.
I have so many thoughts, mostly profane, about this whole issue, that I'm glad that you were able to put it succinctly and eloquently this way, because I wouldn't be able to manage it any time soon. We are moving to the US (to SF) very soon, it just happened in the last month or so, and I told A yesterday that if more people start to carry guns, we are out of there and not going back.
- December 17, 2012 at 4:36 AM
- Cuisine de Provence said...
I am with you all the way.
- December 17, 2012 at 5:12 AM
- Kristen - Dine & Dish said...
Very very well said.
Don't assume that those of us who are choosing the day of social media silence are being silent though. I'm choosing to spend my day writing to politicians about this urgent need to do something, now.
- December 17, 2012 at 5:27 AM
- Jamie said...
@Kristen: I admire you for that and wish you (all of us) courage. I can only imagine your thoughts with small children. xo
- December 17, 2012 at 5:29 AM
- Patti Clark-Wunder said...
This is so well stated. Thank you for putting your heart into this subject and post. I will be sharing on twitter and fb. If we continue to be silent, change will not happen. I will not be silent.
- December 17, 2012 at 5:31 AM
- Terri said...
So very well stated. Thank you for your voice
- December 17, 2012 at 5:48 AM
- Winnie said...
Thank you, Jamie, for not staying silent. I too am outraged and want to see change.
- December 17, 2012 at 5:57 AM
- Bunkycooks said...
Thank you for speaking out on this topic today. As you know, I believe there are several reasons we continue to have these tragic massacres in our country. It's not just the guns. Mental illness and our violent culture are just as much at fault along with the breakdown of families and social norms. We have far too many young people with serious problems that are left untreated and families left with nowhere to turn to help them. Liza Long's story is the story of many mothers. We need to assist parents and families when they have a child (or an adult) who is mentally ill and are a potential threat to society and take on this culture of ours that glorifies violence. We will continue to have these horrific massacres unless we change the laws on not just guns, but on these other issues as well.
- December 17, 2012 at 6:10 AM
- Fresh Local and Best said...
I am grateful that you posted this and more so that it has fostered smart conversation about the events and issues. My initial reaction to this event was "Again?" How many more tragedies before real change happens? You echo our outrage.
- December 17, 2012 at 6:21 AM
- Matt said...
Very well said.
- December 17, 2012 at 7:24 AM
- El said...
Amen sister. Big hugs from New England.
- December 17, 2012 at 7:33 AM
- Barbara | Creative Culinary said...
I have the dubious distinction of living in Denver where we have seen this happen too often.
Even before Columbine, a lone gunman walked into a nearby Chuckie Cheese and shot 4 of his co-workers. My children attended birthday parties there and it was too close for comfort. At the time only 4 people were killed; it's a measure of how much worse it's become that I would even use the world 'only.'
My daughter attended a high school only 20 minutes from Columbine. We know people who lost a child and that event affected her childhood and our lives forever. Like you I simply can not imagine how two young men were able to amass an arsenal but they did but even worse...how that ability continues unabated today.
I sat in nervous anxiety for days after the shooting in Aurora at a theater not far from me, not knowing if someone I knew would be listed as a victim. Again, a young man with enough weaponry to start his own war...unchecked.
The 2nd constitution was written during a period when people lived on the frontier; when they were personally responsible for their family's safety in ways we can not imagine. To use it as the reason for allowing people to build personal arsenals which include automatic weapons is beyond comprehension.
I live in America and let me state right now, for the record that the proliferation of guns does not in any way increase my sense of safety, just the opposite. It's been suggested that I fight fire with fire and get a gun. There are simply no words to argue that lunacy. What's next? Shootouts over parking spaces?
No where in the world are people more exasperated than those in America who find our voices drowned out by the voices of people WHO DO NOT REPRESENT US!!!
We are told that now is not the time to start discussing the issue of firearms, that it is too soon. Well when then? Columbine was 13 years ago...isn't that quite enough time? I'll tell you when the NRA will get behind something being done. When something happens to one of their own...and not before.
If we don't make the deaths of innocents a cause, a reason, then what will it take? I say it starts now.
I will not be silent today either. We have been silent too long. We need outrage and conviction; we need our voices heard. America is not a land as portrayed on reality (?)TV. It is filled with good, decent people who care about their families and others and somehow, some way we need to rally those good people to stand up and really be counted.
I made a commitment to my daughter for my post today but you have brought my outrage to the table most eloquently. Something has got to change.
- December 17, 2012 at 7:48 AM
- Jamie said...
@Barbara I am weeping...
- December 17, 2012 at 7:51 AM
- Monica Bhide said...
I am with you all the way. Well said.
- December 17, 2012 at 8:03 AM
- Nancie McDermott said...
Thank you, Jamie. You have written a brilliant, detailed, powerful essay and I nodded and whispered "YES!" over and over as I read it from beginning to end. I live in North Carolina, USA, and I am filled with hope. This underlines and italicizes and boldfaces what has been clear and true for so many years. The other side has held the power for so long, and their deathgrip on the conversation has been unbreakable. They have big 'weapons' in the form of $$$ and political influence and fear-mongering influence on many people. But as we have seen in our recent presidential election, all that money and all that power and all that screaming-right-wing talk-show screed melted into the dirt in the face of people determined to go stand in long lines to cast their votes for a leader who said 'we are all in this together' and 'there is enough'. It won't be simple and it won't be easy, but my sense is that a huge dam has broken and that the waters are flowing toward the changes we must make to become a safe place for everyone. I learned the phrase "Silence Means Consent" during the 1980's when ACT Up activists used it during the AIDS epidemic. The bullies with the bullhorns and the politicians in their pockets can no longer hold on to The Last Word. We are ready to have this fight, and to win it. Your words here mean so much and give strength, clarity and enlightenment to the discussion. Thank you.
- December 17, 2012 at 8:57 AM
- Manu said...
I couldn't agree more. Now it's the time to act... in a few weeks, all this will be forgotten and nothing will be done. Praying and remembering cannot and should not be made an excuse for not fixing this or it could happen again and again. :-(
- December 17, 2012 at 11:22 AM
- Maureen | Orgasmic Chef said...
Every one of us should stumble this post. I've already done it. This is a well researched and honest opinion of a thoughtful American. I agree with everything you've written. It's time that America wasn't known as one of the most violent countries in the world.
- December 17, 2012 at 3:51 PM
- Jennifer @ Delicieux said...
I couldn't agree with your sentiments more Jamie. This is not a time to be silent, it's a time to act.
In Australia gun control laws came about through a similarly and needlessly tragic event, a terrible massacre in Tasmania, where 35 people were killed and 21 injured at a major tourist attraction. This event brought about major changes in gun laws, we implemented strict gun control laws, made the use of semi-automatic weapons illegal, and the government bought back guns (our constitution forbids taking property from citizens without compensating them) from the gun owners and destroyed them.
While it hasn't stopped gun related offences, people bent on getting a gun will find a way, it has certainly lessened gun related crimes.
I understand the culture in America is vastly different, but something has to change, and hopefully that change will come soon for the good and safety of the community. Now is the time to act while the horror of this act reminds everyone what they are fighting for.
- December 17, 2012 at 4:13 PM
- Lora CakeDuchess said...
As a mom of a child the same age as those tragically killed the other day, I've found myself breathless with sadness many times these days. Why kill the most innocent? Our children are clean slates and our hope for a better future. I think it is fine that people chose one day of silence as a matter of respect. I think we should be thinking of these poor lost souls every day and wonder why does it keep happening again and again. We live in a country that has become desensitized to all this violence. When another act of violence occurs we become more and more scared here in America. I dropped my daughter to school today and saw the very serious police officer put there today on duty to protect the kids at the front of the school. I drove away feeling my heart sink in my chest. I heard on CNN this weekend a former NYPD police officer who now runs a security business saying the only way to protect our kids is to make the classrooms completely locked down and secure. So our kids will feel like they are in prison instead of at a place of learning. I do agree that gun control is an issue to be addressed but I also feel the gun culture is just as pertinent an issue to discuss. Did you know Americans own 270 million firearms, almost one for every citizen. So we implement gun control laws and what about these existing guns floating around here in our country? Could we regulate them and the owners the way we regulate our cars? Canada now has a 28-day waiting period to buy a handgun and the buyer has to have two people vouching for them. Our very violent culture, the state of mental health, guns...It is a multifaceted issue that we face.
- December 17, 2012 at 7:35 PM
- Claudine said...
Hi Jamie, Nanette [my sister] told me about your post telling me I must read it. I am ever so glad I did. You have passionately articulated exactly what Americans [actually the world] needs to hear. I truly hope Huffington Post publish it as it needs to be widely read. Why? Because it will make many people very, very angry. You have flown in the face of all the rhetoric our there that seems to be disguising the raw truth of what has happened. Twenty babies have had their lives torn away by gun laws that need a radical overhaul. I agree with every point you make and felt your anger. I am very glad you put your thoughts down for us to read. I pray many more feel as I did and that hopefully, you change some minds out there...
- December 17, 2012 at 7:45 PM
- Amanda said...
Thanks for having the courage of your convictions to speak out past all of the political correctness. It is becoming increasingly alarming to see the astonishing level of control the NRA enjoys in the US - their agenda seems to over-ride everything in it's path and that is really scary.
- December 18, 2012 at 12:10 AM
- Meeta K. Wolff said...
Enough is enough ... yes you are so right here. The Second Amendment is a fossil in our 21st Century and the laws need to changed from it's core It's a herculean act but there has to be a start towards this.
However, I still believe there is another level to these issues and it is not an America problem but a problem we as humans need to review. It is the issue of being a stronger society, of not shunning people out for being different or having issues. We tend to be superficial with our behavior, pushing our kids because they have to stand their ground in an ever-competing society. They have to be better than their classmates, friends and neighbors kids. Not everyone can take that pressure ... this is absolutely NO EXCUSE or even trying to find a reason for what happened .... please do not see it as such ... but just as the guns have to disappear from the homes, shooting ranges, basements etc. in the same way we need to banish hostility, malignity or the extreme superficial world we have created around us. Fighting this from both levels is, in my opinion vital.
I hope I do not sound like I am preaching - it is not my intention.
Thank you Jamie for writing this!
- December 18, 2012 at 12:29 AM
- Jamie said...
@Meeta: no, you are not preaching! This is what must happen, this heartfelt discussion. We can't wait until the raw, open wounds are healed and we are back to our ho-hum, level-headed, rational selves. That is how nothing happens. That is how we stand by while our politicians are bullied by the NRA and their ilk? We need to channel our passions about this and bring it all to the table. Guns; mental health; nurturing the American gun culture; the glorification of violence all in the name of earning bucks; how we push our kids today; how we immediately put our kids on medicine to treat behavior a harried teacher or parent cannot deal with... it is a bucketful of issues and each must need to be faced. One at a time. Which is why I advocate starting with gun ownership and gun control because it is, in my opinion, the most straightforward.
I truly and gratefully appreciate each and every thought and comment here, on Twitter and Facebook. We need this discussion now. And we need to take action now.
- December 18, 2012 at 12:36 AM
- Minna Hong said...
Very well said, my friend. As we end day three after the shooting, it's imperative that we don't let this case fade in memory as the others have done.
Yes, it's time to grieve and to mourn, but it's past time to do something to stop the insanity. We as a country need to be better than we are on the subject of guns, or else, we must resign ourselves to reading/hearing about cases like this more and more frequently.
With rights come responsibilities. Someone's right to pack heat ends at the right for others to not get murdered as they go to a mall, the movie theatre, or school. If we must live our lives in constant fear, we are not free at all.
Yes, there are many things that kill people, but guns make it very easy to kill a large number of people from a distance in a short amount of time. You never hear of a drive-by stabbing, do you? No.
I keep hearing that this is the tipping point, that things will be different after this shooting. I am not as sanguine about it, but I really hope it's true.
- December 18, 2012 at 1:40 AM
- Jamie said...
@Minna Hong: Thank you. Yes, when was the last "drive by knifing"? Or the last 8-year-old who accidently killed a sibling with a knife? Or ran through the halls of a school with a knife, leaving 20 children dead in their wake?
- December 18, 2012 at 1:45 AM
- Karin@yumandmore said...
Yes Jamie it is heart-breaking, anger-filling and frustrating that nothing seems to move forward on this issue! How senseless to kill small children in a school or the adults giving their all to educate and nurture them.
It is a hard time to be an American expat - people expect you to explain the unexplainable, you are too far away to get politically involved except with your voice, you are far away from those you love and fear for who remain in a country that focusses on economic issues and later a desire to divide - in politics, economics, religions, in sickness and in health benefits.
I am saddened and disgusted for my country and I am glad that you are speaking out.
I no longer shake my head when my sister who lives in Philly speaks to parents about their guns and where they are kept when she takes her small daughters to other peoples houses for a play date.
No child or loved one is worth losing to other people's stupidity and stubborness of being right.
Hugs to you my dear American friend and thanks for your courageous words.
- December 18, 2012 at 6:04 AM
- Coco Cooks said...
Well written. I live in the very violent Chicago where it's normal to wake on a Monday and here about a rash of weekend shootings over night. One weekend last summer it was over 20.. And these dont always make the mational news for obvious reasons.
- December 18, 2012 at 6:57 AM
- Valerie Lugonja said...
A heart felt and literate rant is the best kind. I see we are completely politically aligned. Not such a big surprise, but a comfort. Yet, you did not include exactly why you left the US... more of the same - or something that hit home? I am sad for you, Jamie, that you felt you had to leave your homeland. I agree with you completely about the NRA and the bullying mentality of that right wing group. I am so sad that this keeps happening - and as a teacher, know that none of those children will ever be the same again.
Standing Ovation for taking such a strong stand. I stand beside you.
- December 18, 2012 at 7:01 AM
- Sarah, Maison Cupcake said...
I read this on my phone first thing but today but unable to comment until now.
I suspect the genii is out of the bottle where guns are concerned in the US, those that have enjoyed access to them will go out their way to find weapons on black market if they can't still go to Walmart. But that's not an excuse to keep things as they are, I don't understand why anyone needs to own a gun.
Quite how doing so equates to 'freedom' I will never understand.
- December 18, 2012 at 8:56 AM
- Lora said...
AMEN sister. You've expressed every sentiment and more I've felt since this senseless tragedy happened.
- December 18, 2012 at 7:33 PM
- Rosa's Yummy Yums said...
Well-written. One cannot stay silent in front of such inhumanity. Society's really sick...
- December 19, 2012 at 4:43 AM
- David @ Frenchie and the Yankee said...
- December 19, 2012 at 12:24 PM
- Lisa said...
Jamie..this is such a powerful piece. so much so..your 'voice' is still buzzing in my head as I type this. Me and D were just talking about how dangerous it is to keep a gun in your home. People have moments of insanity where one fight, one outburst of rage, can have dire consequences, and I'm speaking of people who are sane and don't usually rage. These shootings will not end as long as anyone is allowed to purchase a license for a gun. 20 little angels and 6 adults trying to protect them were killed because of this law. I don't know what else to say until it happens again, and then, and only then, will they possibly do something about it. How many people have to die first? I'm still hoping they do now. In't this enough of a reason?
- December 19, 2012 at 8:17 PM


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- Anomalous Backward alpha Scattering (1972)
- The elastic alpha scattering to backward angles has been studied for 40,42,44,48Ca between 40.7 and 72.3 MeV. The cross sections for 40Ca are larger than those for the higher isotopes up to the highest energies. They show backward increases that disappear above 50 MeV. The enhancement factor for 40Ca over 42,44Ca varies smoothly with energy. 48Ca does also show a backward cross-section enhancement over 42,44Ca. alpha -cluster rotational bands in the 44Ti compound state, four-nucleon correlations in 40Ca, and the l-dependent optical model are discussed as approaches to understand the anomaly. The rotator model appears to agree qualitatively with the experimental data. It involves rotational bands extending at least up to J=16 in 44Ti.


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I do have to say that is, in fact, hard to find a spouse. This is a specialized site for Catholics, so there may fewer members here than on the some of the other bigger name sites. Having more members doesn't necessarily ensure dating success either. A lot of people have restrictions on a long-distance relationship due to their personal obligations and there may not be many CM members in their area.
Being on a dating site for a while is not an indicator of lack of seriousness in the search for a spouse either. A group of my friends discussed this not too long ago (in person at a local gathering). A friend of a friend, who is not Catholic, was on a popular secular dating site for ten years. She is now engaged, but she did not meet her fiance online, as they were introduced by other mutual friends. It turns out that they were classmates in elementary school, they had some things in common and their relationship blossomed. A membership on a dating site is not an order form to purchase a boyfriend/girlfriend/spouse; it is just one tool that you can try to use to meet people.


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Lynda Reeves chats with Bonnie Brooks, president/CEO of The Bay, about her open-concept loft and approach to design. See Bonnie's gallery-inspired living room, dining room, bathroom, kitchen and enviable walk-in closet. Plus, get her tips for creating vignettes in a spacious loft, curating an expansive art collection, maximizing kitchen storage and concealing appliances.
See more photos of this home in our November 2011 issue, plus tour Bonnie's new kitchen for more ideas.
Living area: Chairs, Manks, visit Manks.com; coffee table, Garrison Rousseau, visit Garrisonrousseau.com; opium bed, Chine Gallery, visit Chinegallery.com; linen upholstery (on chairs and sofa), Andrew Martin, visit Andrewmartin.co.uk; sea-grass rug, Elte, Toronto (416) 785-7885, 1-888-276-3583 or visit Elte.com; artwork by Chen Yu (above cabinet), Schoeni Art Gallery International, visit Schoeniartgallery.com.
Dining room: B&B Italia Patricia Urquiola Lens table, visit Bebitalia.it for retailers across Canada; dining chairs, The Bay, call 1-800-521-2364 or visit Hbc.com for locations across Canada; Droog 85 Lamps by Rody Graumans pendant, Klaus, Toronto (416) 362- 3434 or visit Klausn.com; flooring, Floorworks & Relative Space, Toronto (416) 961-6891 or visit Floorworks.ca.
Bedroom: Bed, side table, Garrison Rousseau, visit Garrisonrousseau.com; photography by Reinhard Reitzenstein, Olga Korper Gallery, Toronto (416) 538-8220 or visit Olgakorpergallery.com; vases, Hollace Cluny, Toronto (416) 968-7894, 1-888-968-7660 or visit Hollacecluny.ca; white bedding, Au Lit Fine Linens, call 1-800-363-6080 or visit Aulitfinelinens.com; blanket, Lucca, Toronto (416) 485-4999.
Bathroom: Towels, accessories, Ginger's, Toronto (416) 787-1787, 1-888-444-3292 or visit Gingersbath.com; Agape bathtub, Inform Interiors, Vancouver (604) 682-3868 or visit Informinteriors.com, and Dekla Kitchens, Toronto (416) 961-2929 or visit Dekla.ca, or visit Agapedesign.it.
Den: Two Ways of Carrying a Bomb by Erwin Wurm, visit Erwinwurm.at; Charles Pachter moose sculpture, The Moose Factory, Toronto (416) 260-1600 or visit Cpachter.com; artwork by Barbara Astman, Corkin Gallery, Toronto (416) 979-1980 or visit Corkingallery.com.
Kitchen: Dishwashers, convection oven, built-in coffeemaker, Miele, visit Miele.ca for retailers across Canada; Sub-Zero appliances, Sub-Zero, call 1-800-222-7820 or visit Subzero.com; Liebherr appliances, visit Liebherr.us for suppliers across Canada; Artwork by Miao Xiaochun, Walsh Gallery, Chicago (312) 829-3312 or visit Walshgallery.com; Martha Sturdy bowls (on counter), Hollace Cluny, as above.


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Apple quietly updates its 12 Days of Christmas app for UK and parts of Europe
Apple has quietly updated its 12 Days of Christmas app for UK and European users. The app is always updated around this time of year but doesn't actually start to be of any use until December 26th. The app gives away apps, books and music content every day for 12 days and It is worth grabbing now just in-case you forget. You will then receive a push notification each day of the promotion to remind you to get your free content. If you download it now, you will get a countdown screen showing how many days left until the first free content will be made available.
You and your friends can download a fantastic selection of songs, music videos, apps, books and TV episodes for free. Each download will only be available for 24 hours. Get our 12 Days of Christmas app to make sure you don't miss out.
Free Download Now
The app is currently only available in the UK and some parts of Europe and we are not sure if it will be available yet in the US at all. The promotion starts on December 26th and runs for 12 days. It could be a welcome break for parents who are constantly harassed to part with money for apps this time of year. Even better, Apple is also offering gifts for your computer too via iTunes starting at the same time; we can only assume that this will be in the form of apps from the Mac App store.
Have something to say about this story? Leave a comment! Need help with something else? Ask in our forums!
Reader comments
Apple quietly updates its 12 Days of Christmas app for UK and parts of Europe
Speaking of Christmas shopping... I have been using some technology to get great deals :)
giflty, ubokia and couptivate are just a few of those i found in this article http://www.mevvy.com/articles/s-h-o-p-p-i-n-g-for-expert/
Also in Canada. Downloaded this app yesterday when I saw it in the App Store.
I quit working at shoprite and now I make $35h - $80h...how? I'm working online! My work didn't exactly make me happy so I decided to take a chance on something new… after 4 years it was so hard to quit my day job but now I couldn't be happier. Heres what I do, cloud68dotcom
Here's the version for U.S. customers:


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Phone: 503-823-5386
Phone: 503-823-5386
The RDPO maintains a calendar of training opportunities and planned exercises for members of the organization and other emergency preparedness professionals in the region. The Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency (CRESA) hosts this calendar on behalf of the region. You can find the calendar at: cresa911.org/training-calendar/
Disaster preparedness training for citizens and volunteers is provided by the many Citizen Corps programs in the region and the American Red Cross. To find a disaster preparedness volunteer program, see one of these sites:


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Inspired by New York and urban sophistication, Bugaboo Cameleon3(rd) Avenue special edition is elegant, classic and refined – a perfect match for modern and sophisticated parents.
Bugaboo Cameleon3(rd) Avenue features grey blended fabric on the outside and a darker, fishbone-stitched print on the inside. The sun canopy and bassinet lining are made of micro-fleece fabric in a midnight blue and mocha-brown colored print. Combined with a special style brand label, extra quilted seat cushion and a leather look handlebar and carry handle.
- outside base fabric – bassinet, seat & under seat bag:
- grey blended fabric
- outside tailored fabric – sun canopy & apron:
- grey blended fabric
- inside lining - bassinet, sun canopy & apron: micro fleece
- fabric with a midnight blue and mocha brown colored print
- mattress cover - micro fleece fabric with a midnight blue and
- mocha brown colored print
- quilted seat cushion: navy jersey fabric
Small Parts:
- logo: embroidered in fabric, (same color stitching)
- label: special style brand label
Handlebar and Rotating Carry Handle
- dark grey leather look handlebar & rotating carr y handle with
- embroidery stitching on the inside
- normal aluminum
Shipping Note: This item ships via FedEx Ground within contiguous United States only. Cannot be shipped to AK/HI, PO boxes, US territories, or APO/FPO addresses.


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Since 1999, Northwest Classic Auto Mall has offered cars from 1989 and older vehicles, both locally and worldwide. Whether you're looking for an older classic, hot rod, rat rod or a vehicle in the 80's, we invite you to browse our listings of vehicles.
1948 Ford Panel If you are interested in this vehicle or have any questions, please call Jim at 541-528-3320 Good cruising old panel, Late model running gear, Small block... More


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A magnetic coastal city of exotic beauty and world-class ambience. A major commercial crossroads pulsing with energy. A multicultural mecca reflecting an array of colorful influences. This is the unparalleled setting of the University of Miami School of Law.
Nestled into one of South Florida's loveliest locales – the lush, elegant enclave of Coral Gables – Miami Law vividly reflects the one-of-a-kind metro area it calls home.
Our student body is one of the nation's most diverse, coming to us from across the U.S. and six continents.
Our faculty combine impressive credentials and extraordinary expertise with an enthusiastic, supportive approach to teaching.
Our curriculum is carefully designed to allow our students to develop a deep intellectual foundation in the principles of law while honing high-caliber professional skills.
Our educational environment offers a broad variety of opportunities for clinics and clerkships in Miami's fascinating corridors of power and fast-paced corporate scene, as well as myriad opportunities for practical community-service experiences.
And our profoundly global perspective provides the perfect springboard for a successful career in a profession that becomes more international every day.
I invite you to discover the unique attributes of the University of Miami School of Law – where living, learning, working, and playing are experiences unlike those you'll find anywhere else. We think you'll agree it's an extraordinary place.
Patricia D. White
Dean & Professor of Law
Admissions & Student Recruitment
Admissions & Student Recruitment
University of Miami School of Law
Dean White, speaking at an alumni event in 2012 to the class of '52, talks about how the practice of law has changed since they graduated, and how Miami Law has responded to our current students' needs in terms of legal education and training. She specifically talks here about skills training, and our clinics, legal writing program and externships.


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Narrow your search
We've seen Android in smartphones and tablets, and now it's making the leap to computers with the Acer DA241HL all-in-one.
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Finally, an easy way to lower your monthly cable bill. Plus: free stuff!
Is Android the desktop operating system of your wildest fantasies? Probably not, but it's a cool idea -- take a look in our video.
The Acer DA241HL is a desktop all-in-one PC that runs entirely on Android, rather than Windows.
Make sure the Caped Crusader wears more than just gloomy black by voting in this collectibles poll from DC Comics.
A pair of images have emerged showing what purports to be a smaller take on the OnePlus smartphone. Are they real?
With Gmail auto-adding everyone you communicate with, pruning your address book is a must. However, you can now clean up with no worry of deleting the wrong information and not being able to get it back.
More than a billion Android handsets are expected to ship by year's end, easily outpacing the 178 million iPhones hitting store shelves, new data from IDC shows.
A special photographic technique turns a match strike into a dazzling 37 seconds of "who knew?"


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Does Google keep track of the pages I'm viewing or the books I read?
In order to protect copyrighted books, we only allow Google Books users to view a limited portion of the book. Enforcing these limits requires us to keep track of our users' page views. We don't associate your searches or the pages you view with any personally identifiable information about you, such as your name and address, unless you log in with your Google Account. However, to enforce limits on user page views, we do associate some non-personally identifiable information (IP address, cookies) with the books and pages that you've viewed regardless of login. We keep this data for a limited period of time to enforce viewing limits. As always, we encourage you to read our Privacy Policy to be fully informed about how your confidentiality is protected.


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Quick Links
Shop All Jewelry
NL10096 In Stock
As if sculpted out of a drop of pure silver by a master's hand, this designer inspired tenderness heart pendant creates an insatiable sense of allure. The smooth sterling silver lulls the eyes with its luster and exquisite design that creates the floating shadow of a heart. The necklace weighs an easy 4.9 grams to make this tenderness heart pendant a piece that is not to be forgotten quickly.
Eve's Addiction.com wants you to be a happy customer. We want you to be completely satisfied with the sterling silver jewelry that you receive from us, as we only sell high quality silver and cubic zirconia cz jewelry. We do understand that you may not like your purchase for some reason.
You may return or exchange your jewelry within 60 days of purchase if you are not satisfied with it. The jewelry must be returned in its original condition for a refund or exchange. Engraved, personalized, photo, monogram, name and initial, chocolate and clearance items are not returnable or exchangeable.


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Mr. Fredrick March Dudley, age 74, passed away Saturday, February 09, 2013 at his residence. Mr. Dudley was born August 15, 1938 in Surry County to Lee and Sarah Louise Bowers Dudley.
Mr. Dudley retired from Clark Construction and from the Army National Guard. He was a member of Jesus Life Ministries in Moravian Falls. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a step-son, Terry Plumley, two sisters, Nancy Bottoms, Lana Harrison, three brothers, Odell Dudley, Leroy Dudley and L.D. Dudley.
Survivors include, his wife, Betty B. Dudley of the home, three step-sons, Gary Plumley of Prosperity, WVA, Jeffery Plumley of Jonesville, Johnny Plumley and wife Linda of Mocksville, a brother, James Dudley and wife Pam of Jonesville, ten grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be conducted Monday, February 11, 2013 at 2:00 pm at Jesus Life Ministries with Rev. Kevin Brinegar officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 pm prior to the service. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to Jesus Life Ministries 2385 NC Hwy 18 S Moravian Falls, NC 28654.
Online condolences may be made www.elkinfuneralservice.com
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Elkin Funeral Service.


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Old 808 State reminds me of the R8 or R70 not so much the Roland 808 unless the very early material like Newbuild. British Acid House. Every time I hear an R8 drum machine I think of Excel. Pure 808 was used in a lot of old rap with a slower tempo. Some old house used a real 808. Miami bass was mostly sampling of the 808. Of course electro, electric boogaloo, break dancing music had a lot of 808 but also digital drum machines. In America it was just break dancing music that was considered a fad by the mid 1980s. I remember by 1989 when the Roland TR's became popular because of acid house and techno it was mostly 909. Artist would use a 909 or with 808 snare hits. Early warp, bleep techno is an example. Graham pointed out the 808 in pop records without mentioning Phil Collins. I know some Brits don't like him and consider him to be a wanker because of politics. 808 started to make its way in a lot of dirty south rap during the 90s and 2000s but a lot of that was sampling and not very good music.
When minimal and laptop music came around in EDM the 808 really isn't that prevalent in a lot of today's EDM, neither is the 909. EDM is just an off shoot of rave music that made it way into popular culture. So an EDM record you would hear today in a store while shopping for toothpaste may have little to do with older house or the underground dance music. Synthetic electronic beats and sample libraries from contemporary software. A pure 808 or 909 would sound very retro these days and be used in a retro context.


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|Assistant Coach
|Second season
|Previous College:
|Massachusetts '12
Jesse O'Donnell joined the University of New Hampshire women's lacrosse staff as an assistant coach in September 2012. O'Donnell received a B.A. in Sociology in May 2012 from the University of Massachusetts, where she was a four-year starter for the women's lacrosse team.
O'Donnell, a native of Chicago, Ill., was an IWLCA Northeast Region Second Team and Atlantic 10 All-Conference First Team honoree as a senior in 2012, when she ranked second on the team in goals (50) as well as third in assists (14) and points (64). Her other collegiate accolades included selection to the IWLCA North/South All-Star Game and being feted as the 2011 Atlantic 10 Tournament MVP.
In her career, O'Donnell recorded 126 goals and 34 assists for 160 points in 79 games; with those numbers, she ranks fifth on the leaderboard in goals and ninth in points. She led UMass to four consecutive Atlantic 10 championships, including undefeated conference seasons in 2011 and 2012, and three NCAA tournament appearances.
O'Donnell comes to UNH with coaching experience at various summer lacrosse camps since 2009 spanning the states of Illinois, Ohio, New York and Massachusetts.