text:
Devices, systems and methods for providing energy to treat large areas of tissue. Several embodiments of the devices control resistance or other parameters to provide substantially uniform current density along a length of tissue with reduced edge effects.
1. An energy delivery device for use in a body conduit or cavity, the device comprising:
an elongated body having a proximal portion and a distal portion; and
an energy applicator at the distal portion of the elongated body, wherein the energy applicator has a proximal area, a distal area, and a medial area between the proximal and distal areas, and wherein the energy applicator is configured to deliver a first voltage at the proximal and distal areas and a second voltage greater than the first voltage at the medial area.
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15. An energy delivery device for use in a body conduit or cavity, the device comprising:
an elongated body having a proximal portion and a distal portion;
an expandable member at the distal portion of the elongated body; and
an energy conductor at the expandable member, wherein the expandable member and the energy conductor are configured to vary an electrical conductivity along an axial length of the energy conductor so as to achieve a substantially uniform current density along a length of tissue.
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22. A method for treating an internal airway in a lung of a patient, the method comprising:
positioning an elongated body of a treatment device in a lung airway of a patient;
expanding an energy applicator at a distal portion of the elongated body to contact a wall of the lung airway; and
delivering energy to the wall of the airway by varying an electrical conductivity along an axial length of the energy applicator so as to reduce edge effects along a length of target tissue.
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The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/954,901, filed Aug. 9, 2007, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
The present application relates generally to medical treatment devices, such as monopolar devices that treat lung diseases by applying a controlled current density in tissue of airways to reduce the resistance to airflow.
Asthma is a disease that makes it difficult to breathe and in many cases can be debilitating. Asthma is generally manifested by (i) bronchoconstriction, (ii) excessive mucus production, and/or (iii) inflammation and swelling of airways that cause widespread but variable airflow obstructions. Asthma can be a chronic disorder often characterized by persistent airway inflammation, but asthma can be further characterized by acute episodes of additional airway narrowing via contraction of hyper-responsive airway smooth muscle tissue.
Conventional pharmacological approaches for managing asthma include: (i) administering anti-inflammatories and long-acting bronchodilators for long-term control, and/or (ii) administering short-acting bronchodilators for management of acute episodes. Both of these pharmacological approaches generally require repeated use of the prescribed drugs at regular intervals throughout long periods of time. However, high doses of corticosteroid anti-inflammatory drugs can have serious side effects that require careful management, and some patients are resistant to steroid treatment even at high doses. As such, effective patient compliance with pharmacologic management and avoiding stimuli that triggers asthma are common barriers to successfully managing asthma.
Asthmatx, Inc. has developed new asthma treatments that involve applying energy to alter properties of the smooth muscle tissue or other tissue (e.g., nerves, mucus glands, epithelium, blood vessels, etc.) of airways in a lung of a patient. Several embodiments of methods and apparatus related to such treatments are disclosed in commonly-assigned U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,411,852, 6,634,363, and 7,027,869; and U.S. Published Application No. US2005/0010270, all of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
Many embodiments of the foregoing asthma treatments that apply energy to tissue of the airways use catheters that can be passed (e.g., navigated) through the tortuous passageways defined by the lung airways.
One challenge of delivering energy to the airways in the lung is that it may take three sessions of 30-60 minutes each to treat a substantial portion of the lungs of a patient (e.g., upper and lower lobes). The three treatment sessions are usually performed on separate days, so it is also desirable to reduce the time necessary for such treatments. One factor affecting the treatment time is the length or width of the electrodes that contact the airway tissue. Typical monopolar energy delivery devices have small, short electrodes that limit the size of the contact area to reduce or mitigate non-uniformities of the current density in the tissue at the electrode. More specifically, the difference between the current density in the tissue at an edge of an electrode and the center of the electrode increases with increasing electrode dimensions (e.g., electrode length) due in part to tissue resistivity characteristics. As shown in
Current monopolar electrode configurations are accordingly limited to relatively small electrodes (e.g., 3-5 mm long) that exhibit acceptable edge effect non-uniformities. Small electrodes, however, treat corresponding small regions of tissue. Accordingly, small electrodes are advanced axially along airways in a large number of short increments to treat long segments of airways throughout the lung of a patient. As a result, small electrodes require longer and/or more treatment sessions to treat a patient and may result in over/under treatment of long segments due to repeated re-positioning.
The following drawings should be read with reference to the detailed description. Like numbers in different drawings refer to like elements. The drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, illustratively depict embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.
Many examples of monopolar devices, systems, and methods for controlling the delivery of energy to tissue within a body cavity are described in this section. Several examples of such systems have an energy delivery device configured to control the current density in tissue along an extended length. Thus, several embodiments of systems in accordance with the technology have relatively larger or longer conductive areas that can treat large cross-sectional areas of tissue within a given time period to reduce the number of treatment sites and cycles compared to shorter or otherwise smaller electrodes. Accordingly, shorter and/or fewer treatment sessions are needed to treat a patient and improved treatment consistency is achieved with longer conductive areas.
Specific examples of the system include an energy delivery device having an elongate member and an energy applicator at a distal portion of the elongate member. The energy applicator, for example, can include an expandable member and an energy conductor associated with the expandable member that are configured to vary the amount of energy (e.g., voltage) delivered along the length of the energy applicator in a manner that controls the current density in tissue to avoid edge effects. In certain embodiments, the expandable member is a non-conductive balloon and the energy conductor is an electrically conductive fluid. The balloon, for example, may be made from a micro-porous material through which the conductive fluid can seep or otherwise pass to contact a passageway wall. The pores can have varying sizes (e.g., diameters), shapes, number, thickness, spacing, densities, or physical properties from the center to the end (e.g., edge) of the balloon to provide a more uniform current density in tissue along an axial length of the balloon.
In other embodiments, the expandable member is a self-expanding foam element and the energy conductor is a conductive fluid that can pass through the foam element. The foam element can be configured to contact a passageway with varying surface area, porosity (e.g., cell size), thickness, or physical properties to provide a more uniform current density in tissue along an axial length of the foam element. In still other examples, the expandable member can be a balloon, foam element, basket, array, mechanical scaffold or other item that expands, and the energy conductor can include a plurality of separate electrodes carried by the expandable member and different resistors coupled to the electrodes to control the current density in tissue proximate to the electrodes. In further embodiments, the expandable member may additionally comprise the energy conductor (e.g., metallic basket, electrode array, conductive foam, etc.) with different resistors coupled thereto to provide a more uniform current density in proximate tissue along a length thereof. For instance, foam may be coated or impregnated with carbon, silver, or other conductive filler, wherein a conductive filler concentration may be varied so as to achieve a uniform current density in the tissue.
Specific details of several embodiments of treatment devices, systems and methods for delivering energy to passageways in a patient are described below with respect to delivering radio frequency energy to airways in a lung of a patient to treat asthma. Other embodiments of the technology, however, can deliver other energy modalities to lung airways or other tissues (e.g., body cavities, skin, etc.) or passageways (e.g., blood vessel) for treating other indications. For example, the system can be configured to deliver thermal (resistive and/or infrared), microwave, ultrasonic (e.g., HIFU), cryo-ablation, or other types of energy modalities to tissue. Moreover, several other embodiments of the invention can have different configurations, components, or procedures than those described in this section. As such, several of the details set forth below are provided to describe the following examples in a manner sufficient to enable a person skilled in the relevant art to practice, make and use the described examples without undue experimentation. Several of the details and advantages described below, however, may not be necessary to practice certain embodiments of the technology. Additionally, the technology may include other embodiments and methods that are within the scope of the claims but are not described in detail. Moreover, the particular features, structures, routines, steps, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments of the technology.
The energy delivery device 120 is an example of a treatment device for treating asthma or other indications associated with passageways in a human. The embodiment of the energy delivery device 120 illustrated in
Several embodiments of the elongated body 130 are flexible catheters configured to slide through an incision or working lumen of an access device (e.g., bronchoscope, endoscope, etc.) while the energy applicator 140 is in a low-profile configuration. The elongated body 130 can also include a plurality of markers 136 at the distal section 132 to position the energy applicator 140 relative to an access device or an anatomical location (not shown in
The energy applicator 140 can have an expandable member and at least one energy conductor configured to deliver energy to the tissue of an airway, passageway, or other body cavity in the patient. The expandable member, for example, can be configured to contact the passageway and present the energy conductor to the passageway. For example, the expandable member may comprise a balloon, foam element, basket, scaffold, array, or another type of member that is inflatable, self-expandable, and/or mechanically actuatable. The energy conductor can be a conductive fluid, a metal band, a metallic array, electrode segment, or other electrically conductive medium or element that can conduct a current in applications that deliver RF energy or other electrical energy. In other embodiments, the energy conductor can be an optic element for conducting an ultrasonic transmitter or other type of conductor suitable for the particular energy modality. Further details describing several embodiments of suitable energy applicators are described below with reference to
Referring back to
In several embodiments of the system, the controller 112 includes a processor that is generally configured to accept information from the system 100 and components associated with the system. The processor can process the information according to various algorithms to produce control signals for controlling the energy generator and/or produce information signals. The information signals produced by the processor may be directed to visual indicators, a digital display, or an audio tone generator of the user interface to inform the user of the system status, component status, procedure status, or any other useful information monitored by the system. The processor of the controller 112 may be a digital IC processor, analog processor, or any other suitable logic or control system that carries out the control algorithms.
Specific embodiments of systems that control power output to the energy delivery device are described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,104,987, U.S. Published Application No. US2006/0247746, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/951,655, which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. The system 100 may deliver energy to target sites via the energy delivery device 120 in a variety of treatment patterns. Further details with respect to other designs and types of treatment devices, examples of energy, and/or examples of treatment patterns may be found in commonly-assigned U.S. Pat. No. 6,411,852.
Several embodiments of the energy applicator 140 have a balloon, foam element, a basket, a scaffold, an array, or another type of expandable member and one or more energy conductors configured to contact target sites of a treatment area within a passageway. Several embodiments of the energy applicator have different resistances or other electrical properties (e.g., capacitance, inductance, impedance, etc.) to vary the amount of energy delivered to the tissue along the length of the applicator. In certain embodiments, the greatest resistances are at proximal and/or distal areas of the expandable member to compensate for edge effects.
In operation, the power/control unit 110 (
Another feature of several examples of the energy applicator 300 is that the ring electrodes 320 a-c can also deliver energy around the circumference of the airway wall 342. The ring electrodes 320 a-c can be continuous conductive bands as shown in
Several embodiments of energy applicators include a fluidic energy conductor and an expandable member through which the fluidic energy conductor can pass. The fluidic energy conductor may comprise a saline or water solution or other conductive liquid (e.g., other electrolytes). The expandable member, for example, can be a balloon or foam element permeable to water such that the conductive fluid can seep through the wall of the balloon or pass through the foam element to contact the wall of a treatment site within a passageway. In the case of a balloon, pores (e.g., micro-pores), holes, openings, apertures, orifices, and other conduits at the wall of the balloon may vary in size to vary the energy (e.g., voltage) delivered to the tissue along the length of the balloon. The conduits through the balloon can be configured to provide a uniform current density along a length of tissue. For example, the sizes (e.g., diameters), shapes, spacing and/or densities of pores can be greater at the medial area than the proximal and distal areas of the balloon to reduce or eliminate the edge effects and enable the energy delivery device to treat long treatment sites. Additionally, the fluid in the balloon can be cooled to protect a surface layer from thermal damage while still delivering the energy to deeper target tissue. For example, as the delivered energy heats or otherwise effects underlying smooth muscle tissue, the cooled liquid can control the temperature of an epithelial layer or other tissue layer to protect the surface of the airway wall or the passageway.
The entire balloon 410 can comprise a material through which the conductive fluid can seep or otherwise pass. In other embodiments, the main portion 413 of the balloon and/or the sidewalls of the conduits can be an impermeable material, and only the contact surfaces 421 a-c of the conduits 420 a-c can be permeable to the conductive solution or ions of the conductive solution (e.g., a semipermeable cation or anion membrane). In particular embodiments, the balloon 410 may be made from suitable compliant materials such as urethane, silicone rubber, and the like or suitable non-compliant materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE), expanded PTFE (ePTFE), polyether block amide (PEBAX), and the like.
The energy applicator 400 can also have an electrode 426 in the balloon 410. The electrode 426 is connected to the power/control unit to deliver RF energy to the saline solution 412. Thus, as the saline solution seeps through the surface contact areas of the conduits 420 a-c, the saline solution delivers RF energy to tissue of a passageway. The different sized conduits 420 a-c and/or holes of the contact surfaces 421 a-c can be configured to provide a uniform or near uniform current distribution in the tissue because of the different amount of energy delivered from the conduits 420 a-c.
and the current can be found by using Ohm's Law, V=IR. As a result, the proximal and distal areas 441 a-b with the smaller pores 451 has a higher resistance to the electrical current I than the medial area 442 with the larger pores 452. Similarly, increasing the thickness of the balloon wall H at the proximal areas 441 a-b results in a higher resistance to the electrical current I than the medial area 442 with a smaller balloon wall thickness H. Suitable pore or hole diameters may be in a range from about 50 microns to about 150 microns and suitable wall thickness may be in a range from about 10 microns to about 100 microns.
Alternate embodiments of expandable members of the energy applicators include a foam element through which a conductive liquid, such as a saline solution, can pass to the target tissue. The foam element may have different parameters that control the amount of energy delivered to the tissue at a target site.
In operation, an operator moves the distal portion 132 of the elongated body 130 to a target site and deploys the energy applicator 500 to treat the tissue wall of a passageway. The energy applicator 500 can be deployed by pushing the shaft 520 distally out of the elongated body 130 or withdrawing the elongated body 130 proximally while holding the shaft 520. The elongated body 130 and/or the foam element 510 may be chamfered or tapered at proximal or distal ends to help facilitate deployment or retraction. The foam element 510 self expands to contact the passageway, and the conductive fluid 512 flows through the outlets 524 into the foam element 510. The conductive fluid 512 fills the interstitial spaces in the foam element 510 such that conductive fluid at the surface of the foam element 510 contacts the wall of an airway. The power/control unit transmits RF energy to the conductive fluid 512 via lead 528 and emitter 526. The emitter 526 may have a large contact surface to avoid the build up of high current densities which might cause vaporization of the fluid 512 through which current is being passed. In an alternative embodiment, the energy applicator can have an electrode 529 (shown in broken line) extending into the foam element 510 instead of or in addition to the lead 528 and emitter 526. In addition to energy delivery, the self expanding foam applicator may also facilitate mucus clearing in the airway prior to energy delivery to ensure against mucus heating and/or from the access scope for improved visualization.
The foam element 510 may have a variable porosity along the axial length L. In one example, the porosity gradually decreases from the middle of the length L to the proximal and distal ends of the foam element 510. The variable porosity controls the amount of saline solution that contacts the tissue, and thus the current density, at different regions along the length L to provide a uniform or nearly uniform current density in tissue at the target site. In alternative embodiments, the foam element 510 may include discrete sections having different porosities. For example, the foam element 510 can have first foam segments 531 at proximal and distal areas 541 a-b and a second foam segment 532 at a medial area 542. The porosity of the second foam segment 532 can be greater than the first foam segments 531 to provide more energy to tissue at the medial area 542. The individual foam segments 531 and 532 may have different porosities based on the number, size and spacing of pores. The number of pores or other porosity parameters may accordingly be adjusted to control the current density in tissue along the length of the foam element 510.
In other embodiments, the thickness at different regions of a foam element may differ to control the current density along the foam element.
The energy applicators 500 and 600 can also have a different configuration of outlets to control the flow of conductive solution to different segments of the foam elements. Referring to
The energy applicators 140, 300, 400, 500 and 600 described above can provide monopolar "electrodes" with controlled electrical properties relative to the length and/or circumference of the applicators. Several embodiments of the systems and methods can accordingly have large electrically conductive contact areas to treat large areas of tissue during a single treatment cycle without extensive edge effects that would otherwise occur with such large electrical contact areas. As such, several embodiments of the system may reduce the time needed for treating tissue within bronchial airways or other body cavities. This enables a facility to treat more patients and enhances the experience and convenience for the patients. The energy applicators 300, 400, 500, 600 described herein may also be used in a manner that protects the epithelium of the tissue while controlling the tissue depth and/or penetration of the energy delivery of the device. For example, as described above, the inflation medium or conductive solution can be cooled to maintain the temperature of the tissue wall of the passageway in a manner that protects the epithelial layer. Cooling may be applied before, during, and/or after energy delivery.
The headings provided herein are for convenience only and are not intended to limit or interpret the scope or meaning of the claimed technology. Additionally, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words "comprise," "comprising," and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in a sense of "including, but not limited to." Words using the singular or plural number also include the plural or singular number, respectively. When the claims use the word "or" in reference to a list of two or more items, that word covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.
The foregoing specific embodiments of the invention have been described for the purposes of illustration, but various modifications may be made without deviating from the scope of the invention. For example, specific features or processes of the various examples described above can be combined to provide further examples. Aspects of the technology may accordingly be modified, if necessary, to employ treatment devices with a plurality of treatment units, thermally conductive devices with various configurations, and concepts of the various patents, applications, and publications incorporated by reference to provide yet further embodiments of the technology. These and other changes, therefore, can be made to the technology in light of the above-detailed description. In general, in the following claims, the terms used should not be construed to limit the technology to the specific examples disclosed in the specification and the claims, but should be construed to include all embodiments in accordance with the claims. Accordingly, the technology is not limited by the disclosure, but instead its scope is to be determined entirely by the following claims.
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Football is a way of life in the town of Damascus. This is nothing new to the basketball team or its coaches. It's the main reason the Swarmin' Hornets haven't won more than three games prior to the New Year's Day in any of coach Butch Marshall's four years at the helm.
While the football players — usually around four double as basketball players — are either extending their season deep into the playoffs, participating in the Crab Bowl and various other postseason games, taking college visits or all of the above, the basketball team is generally happy to scrounge up enough players to scrimmage at the end of practice.
But, such is the life of a Damascus basketball player, and it's one they've grown accustomed to at this juncture in their Swarmin' Hornets tenure.
"If you look at our record over the last four years, we have a losing record before Christmas and a pretty good record after Christmas," Marshall said. "But that's what you expect at Damascus. Of course it would be nice to have 10 basketball-only players but you got to appreciate the multi-sport athletes."
Thus far in 2014, Marshall's post-Christmas tournament record is 8-5, though in one of those games, Richmond-bound tight end Stephon Jacob — the team's tallest player at 6-foot-2 — was taking an official college visit.
"I feel like I'm still getting used to it," said Jacob, who is second on the team with 13.9 points per game and averages roughly 10 rebounds, according to classmate Connor Burke. "I mean, I haven't played basketball in so long. We play football in the summer and the fall and then we get into basketball."
Which is why it came as nothing short of a shock to the rest of the county when then-3-8 Damascus beat then-undefeated Gaithersburg, 61-55, on Jan. 10. The Swarmin' Hornets hadn't been at full strength nearly the entire year to that point. That game served as the launching pad to what Jacob and Burke labeled the beginning of the rest of the season.
"It seemed like after that it clicked and everybody was playing together," said Burke, the team's leading scorer at 16.1 points per game. "It just takes awhile for us to come together. At tryouts we had maybe 10 guys."
The only losses since that Gaithersburg game have come to Poolesville, Urbana, and Rockville, team's combining for a 40-12 record and all of who are legitimate contenders to make it to the state tournament.
"The playoffs are what matters," Marshall said. "You want to be playing your best basketball at the end of the year. You lose one game and your season is over; you can lose in the regular season, you don't win anything in the regular season. We just emphasize getting better and getting better."
Marshall has been particularly impressed with the way Burke has taken on a more authoritative role both in the locker room and on the court. He looks for his shots and pushes the ball more — one of the advantages of having a lineup with four players below six-feet is almost always being the faster team.
Burke, Joe Daniel, and Jhames Nghonda — all left-handed players, as is Jacob, which comprises a four-lefty starting lineup — are all "point guards" at heart, says Burke, meaning Jacob or whoever else grabs the rebound has three viable outlets to look for in starting the fast break. The key, of course, is grabbing a key rebound, not always an easy task given Damascus' relatively short squad across the board.
"If we can get the rebound — that's the big if," Marshall said. "We do like to run and if we can get the rebound, we try to get some numbers and run but we can't run until we get the rebound and that's the problem, really."
As the regular season wound down, the coach often found himself sifting through tapes from the beginning of the season and then comparing it to what he sees now.
What he sees, he said, "is night and day." It's the same observation he has made every year for the past four years, and one he'll likely make for many to come.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Oredia French Fries (they say gluten free on the bag), Amy's gluten free frozen dinners and some gluten free chicken nuggets are about all i eat for processed foods.
I am also inviting myself to dinner at your house! If I was you I would drop these three items for the next two weeks just to see if it helped. I find I can not eat Amy's Gluten free items. I do not eat Oredia's at all. Now I can't tell you exactly why but I'm sure I probably had a problem with them at one time. I just do not eat chicken nuggets. I make chicken schnitzel so I turn up my nose at nuggets.
Have you ever dropped dairy for a few weeks? Might be worth a try at some point. Just go slow about adding items back if you improve.
Another thing to consider. Depending on how much 5-HTP you are taking. It was making me jittery when I was taking 300mg. I was ok-ed to go up further by my doctor if needed. I was at a loss as to why I felt the way I did but then Dr. House cured me. They had a show on about a boy who was getting too much serotonin and his symptoms almost matched mine. I lowered my dose and felt better. I do love my 5-HTP.
You can find the cause and get better.


text:
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Katrina L. Bell-Johnson, 32, of Orangeburg, S.C., died Feb. 16 in Ba'qubah, Iraq, when she was involved in a vehicle accident. Bell-Johnson was assigned to the Army's 418th Transportation Company, 180th Transportation Battalion, Fort Hood, Texas.
The incident is under investigation.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.


text:
Griffey heading into Mariners Hall of Fame Saturday
SEATTLE - This will be more difficult than hitting a 96 mph fastball on the inside corner from a left-handed pitcher. This will be much harder than sprinting backward, climbing the wall at the Kingdome and robbing someone of a home run.
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text:
Trick Of The Dark[Paperback]
(5 ratings)
- Format:
- Paperback
- Pages:
- 544
- Publisher:
- Little, Brown Book Group
- Publication Date:
- 17 February 2011
- Category:
- Crime, Thrillers and Mystery
- 9780751543223
Showing 1-4 out of 6 reviews. Previous | Next
I think it's only fair that I warn you to stand by for some slightly enthusiastic reviews. I've had one of those outstanding periods of reading where there have just been some fabulous books and TRICK OF THE DARK is one of them.In this book of masterful storytelling by Val McDermid, TRICK OF THE DARK is a character study with the tension of a really good thriller. It also does something that I suspect some readers could find confronting, in that most of the characters in this book, including the lead Charlie Flint, are extremely flawed individuals. It's also probably fair to say that the character aspects dominate the narrative, and the book is much more of a whydunit as opposed to a whodunit. Having said that, there's plenty of room for a reader to doubt their belief that they know the whodunit aspects regularly. But in terms of character, the emphasis is most definitely on temptation, loyalty, love and respect. The viewpoint moves around each of the main characters - Charlie, Magda and Jay. Charlie, recently professionally disgraced, struggling with the possibility of losing the long-term career as a profiler that she loves, is feeling lost and vulnerable. She's also in a long-term same-sex marriage with a partner that she loves, but she cannot seem to control the attraction she feels for another woman. Conflicted, but seemingly unable to stop herself, her struggle seems so pointless and self-destructive.Magda, recently newly-wed and widowed within the same day, has obviously been profoundly affected by the death of her husband, but equally by the chance meeting with Jay on her wedding day. She's hesitant, almost ineffectual, and she seems to be struggling to move on. It doesn't help that her new love is somebody that her mother has some profound doubts about. Jay is a successful and wealthy businesswoman in her own right, but there have been tragedies in her past that Magda's mother, Corinna is particularly concerned about. Writing a book about her life, Jay's internal voice is often self-serving, giving the reader a skewed view of who this person is. Or maybe not.Magda's mother Corinna is an Oxford Don, teacher, mentor and sometime employer of Charlie and Jay, who is very concerned about Jay and Magda's relationship. She also doesn't believe that her son-in-law's business partners murdered him, despite the verdict of the trial so recently completed.The past connections give the story something of a closed room feeling, as everything revolves around events, and relationships from university days through to the present. The emotional states of each of the characters builds on that even further as they are often inward looking. Mind you, the present aspects of TRICK OF THE DARK aren't just introspective, overly dark or slow as a result. The story moves forward quickly, the character's personalities balanced against each other avoiding an overdose of self-pity or self-justification. Which really just leaves the reader looking to the future and wondering if this really is the last we'll see of Charlie Flint.
Although not a lesbian myself, some of my best friends are. And this is what distinguishes us from most of the gay characters in Val McDermid's new book, Trick of the Dark, who appear to inhabit an inverted universe where same sex love is the norm, and hetero and homosexual seldom meet at more than a superficial level. Having said that, I admit I thoroughly enjoyed the book, sympathised with the lead character psychiatrist Charlie Flint who despite a wonderful relationship with her dentist wife Maria has fallen head over heels in lust with a younger and sexually ambiguous Oxford academic. Charlie is approached by her former Oxford tutor and role model Corinna who is concerned over her daughter Magda: Magda's dream wedding in the grounds of her mother's college had something of a pall cast over it when her husband was bludgeoned to death on the banks of the river. When her late husband's business partners are charged with his murder, Magda is supported throughout the trial by celebrity lesbian, millionaire business woman and famous misery memoirist Jay Stewart, another of Corinna's former students. Jay, an 'alpha lesbian', has had a hard but extremely lucky life in that people who stood in her way ended up dead. Corinna is convinced the wrong people have been found guilty and Jay is responsible for the murder of her son-in-law: Magda has discovered she is gay and moved in with Jay, at which stage Corinna approaches Charlie for help. Despite their history - Charlie feels Corinna [a Catholic] turned against her when she discoeverd she was a lesbian - she has been suspended from her job and with time on her hands and Maria's encouragement, she agrees to help. Excellent investigative detection is levened by the youthful and paranoid pangs of desire everyone has felt as Charlie combines her search into the truth behind Jay with a gentle pursuit of the young and ruthlessly manipulatrive don who has her gonads in thrall. In additon she has to cope with her guilt and concern over upsetting loyal Maria, whom she really does love.Interesting - enthralling even - Val has never disappointed and her lesbian characters are always engaging, although somewhat socially insular [they should try broadening their social circles because they'll discover straights are people too]. The woman's college in the book was based on Val's alma mater St Hilda and one suspects the places and institutions described here are some the author knows well.
A very enjoyable novel based around a pyschologist's quest to discover whether a famous lesbian businesswoman with a shady past is actually a serial killer, with a lengthy string of victims to her name already.As always with McDermid the plot is tightly drawn and the characters enturely plausible. Maybe not up to the standard of her best novels but definitely worth reading.
Good but not great. I've enjoyed her other books more. The premise was solid - but I had figured out the murderer halfway through the book. Not really enough twists to be satisfying. But still solid. McDermid's prose is enjoyable to read and her plotting is good. It was a good mixture of forward progression and flashbacks, although the continued use of a written memoir for the flashbacks seemed a bit contrived after the fourth or fifth use of it.
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Also by Val Mcdermid
The Skeleton Road


text:
The Boston Celtics for the third time in as many games come up short. This time the loss came courtesy of the Philadelphia 76ers, 97-85 and it would have been more embarrassing if it weren't for a late "surge" in the 4th quarter. Brad Stevens once again went with a new starting lineup, this time starting Bradley, Crawford, Green, Humphries and Olynyk. Boston was outplayed by any and every standard by Philadelphia and even though it is preseason, it's embarrassing. So without further adieu, here comes the pain.
The First Half-
The first quarter wasn't bad, like the first preseason game points were few and far between for both teams in the early going. While the 76ers also struggled out of the gate, their offense clicked before the Celtics' offense did, which really speaks (Hopefully yells at Stevens) that this starting lineup did not work. The flow of the Celtics' offense really began moving when Bass and Sullinger entered the game, immediately kicking off a 8-0 run to retake the lead midway through the second quarter. Sullinger, as it's being expected of him now, scored in the post with a baby hook, made intelligent passes that may not have led to baskets but showcased his wonderful ability to see plays as a forward.
The Celtics led 21-20 after the 1st quarter but that lead was short lived as Philadelphia began to push the pace off of turnovers and absolutely demolished Boston in the 2nd quarter. A big reason why Philadelphia outscored Boston 34-17 in the 2nd quarter was
Rasheed Wallace, Charles Barkley,I mean Spencer Hawes. Hawes was repeatedly encouraged by the Celtics' defense to shoot and he happily obliged, hitting three 3-pointers with no one within 5 feet of him. Hawes and the Sixers repeatedly and I do mean repeatedly beat the Celtics up the floor for shots at the basket. No chemistry, no happy Faverani moments and far too often, seemed like no effort for the Celtics in the second quarter. The Celtics trailed 54-38 at halftime.
The Second Half-
The third quarter began with a slight glimmer of hope, Crawford connected on a 3-pointer to cut into the lead but that slight glimpse of hope was crushed as Boston failed to get into any offensive groove and Philadelphia eagerly stepped on the gas pedal to maintain its lead. Once again, the lack of an interior presence hurt the Celtics as the Sixers repeatedly scored inside, but shockingly outscored Philadelphia 19-18 in the 3rd quarter. The 3rd quarter was littered with seven Celtic turnovers and kept the Celtics from having any flow on offense. After the 3rd quarter, Boston continued to trail Philadelphia, 72-57.
The fourth and final quarter, Phil Pressey ignited a small fire under the Celtics and got the other four players to play as team rather than individuals. Pressey impressed with effort on defense despite his lack of, well, height, he got the ball moving with the purpose to create scoring opportunies (MUCH different than simply moving the ball) and simply put, Phil Pressey just played solid basketball. Boston cut into the Sixers' lead and trailed only by six points at one point but once again (get used to this Celtic fans), the lack of an interior presence and turnovers ultimately decided the game in favor of Philadelphia, 97-85.
Not a good game by any standards, even for a rebuilding team, the effort shown tonight was poor and I don't say that simply because the Celtics lost to the Sixers, I say that because I didn't see guys playing with the purpose to win. I saw players that coasted, players that were doing a chore of playing basketball rather than playing the game they love. I didn't see the team that these players said they'd be every night on Media Day. The Celtics were beaten, not only in the final score but on the glass, on the assist column and most likely would have lost the turnover battle if not for silly mistakes made by the Sixers. Tommy Heinsohn noted that many Celtic players passed up their type of shots to simply move the ball for the sake of falling in line with Stevens' offensive system rather than making plays that they are capable of. A few minor things to note, Keith Bogans injured his thumb in the first quarter and did not return, MarShon Brooks received a DNP-CD, which puzzled me because if you are in a game where you are struggling to score, shouldn't you put a scorer like Brooks out on the floor? Jeff Green once again put up lackluster statistics but watching him closely, I feel as he's holding back rather than playing freely. Whether that's to stay within Stevens' system or to make sure he's healthy for the regular season, I do not know but to me it's clear that he's holding back. Another note on Green, he has been missing his type of shots, so if this is a slump for Green, there's a good chance he'll bounce back. The Celtics look to put an end to their losing ways against the New York Knicks tomorrow night at 7:00PM EST.


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ASHEBORO, N.C. — The North Carolina Zoo is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.
And with that comes a change in leadership.
Pat Simmons has been named the zoo's new deputy director.
She'll be in charge of helping shape the zoo's future.
Rod Hackney introduces us to her in this edition of Zoo Filez.


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Eagle Trailer Co. was founded in 1983 and began manufacturing operations. The company was incorporated in 1987. We are pleased to have manufactured quality trailers for over 25 years.
Eagle Trailer Co. is a leader in innovative design and manufacture of bumper pull, gooseneck and fifth wheel trailers with capacities ranging from 2000# to 20,000#.
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Eagle Trailers Company manufactures:
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A gorgeous cajon drum that's as adjustable as it is beautiful.
This Makah-Burl String Cajon is constructed from a rubberwood resonating body and black Makah-burl frontplate. It features strings that span the frontplate from top to bottom. The top corners and sizzle effect are adjustable, controlling the amount of low-end and the sensitivity of the rattle, respectively. The cajon's string-mute system allows for even wider sound options by giving you control of the string tension, ensuring a dry and crisp sizzle effect. The Meinl Makah-Burl Cajon is outfitted with a comfortable, padded sitting surface and includes an Allen wrench.


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Dave Spence Watch Party: At Least the Spread Was Top-Notch
Categories: Election 2012, Politics
|Spence: "It is what it is. Now let's celebrate."
Around 10:30 p.m. the Republican candidate for Missouri governor finally appeared to tell his supporters gathered at the Frontenac Hilton what they already knew from watching television coverage of the election.
"Even though we will win the majority of counties in the state, we just can't overcome the [losses in the] metro areas," said Spence, flanked on stage by his family. "We are going to come up short. It's the reality, and I'm a realist."
After thanking the 300 campaign volunteers and voters assembled in the room, Spence concluded: "It is what it is. Now let's celebrate."
But just what kind of celebration can Spence's camp throw?
|Say "cheese"!
Mood: Music could have helped energize the room, but there was none to be had last night. A din of chatter provided the evening's soundtrack. Still, as we said, it wasn't the gloomiest of affairs as the outcome was evident early in the night.
Attire: We observed one man dressed in a sweatsuit. Most every other male attendee wore a business suit. Cocktail dresses and pant suits were the outfits of choice among female supporters.
Celebrity sightings: Remember former KSDK sports reporter Malcolm Briggs? He introduced Spence to the crowd.
Overheard: "This is the beginning of the end." (Heard during Todd Akin's concession speech that aired around 9:30 p.m. on monitors inside the Spence watch party. Spence's concession speech would follow an hour later.)
Party score on scale of 1-10: Six. Spence's watch party won't be recreated in any upcoming Todd Phillips' film (Old School, The Hangover), but, hey, you won't go thirsty (or hungry) at a Spence shindig. That's worth something.
Sponsor Content


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VENICE, La. Two tours in Afghanistan took a toll on Joshua Ploetz.
The former Marine was injured in a roadside bomb. He lost friends in combat, and later, to suicide.
When the Winona, Minnesota, resident returned from the war eight years ago, he was coping with post-traumatic stress disorder, known as PTSD, the fallout from a minor stroke and other injuries. Adapting to civilian life proved difficult. Relationships failed, employment was hard to come by and, Ploetz said, he had an overwhelming feeling of being lost.
This summer, Ploetz, 30, found direction and became an inspiration paddling a canoe the length of the Mississippi River. He launched on May 19 in Lake Itasca, Minnesota, where the river begins as a narrow creek lined with tall trees and bald eagle nests.
The trip to the Gulf of Mexico would take him 71 days, about 49 of them spent paddling and the remainder resting. Ploetz said he needed every inch of the rivers more than 2,300 miles to paddle away the demons of war, or at least calm them a bit.
It slows life down so you can appreciate things in life, he said. All you have to do is think about things that you may not want to think about, things that just appear or things that you should think about, and you kind of work things out in your head.
The idea of the river journey was set in motion years ago by a chance encounter in a bar with Matthew Mohlke, author of Floating Down the Country, who told Ploetz about his book describing his solo canoe journey paddling the Mississippi in 1999.
The seed was planted, Ploetz said, for his own river experience.
Ploetz created a Facebook page, called Paddle Off The War, to mark his trip and raise awareness of PTSD.
One of the most memorable moments was a riverside greeting by about 100 uniformed Marines and a live band when Ploetz rounded a bend in New Orleans.
He made friends along the way, including Aleks Nelson, a kayaker from Duluth, Minnesota, who joined Ploetz about 10 days into the trip and paddled alongside him to the end. Ploetz brought a baton made from the handle of a stretcher that carried wounded troops in Afghanistan, which Ploetz called a symbol of hope for struggling veterans.
He said he knows his own battle with post-traumatic stress isnt over, and may never be, but the river taught him how to cope.
Youre going to have your troubles on the river, but just keep paddling, he said. Youll make it through it.
His last morning on the river, he read scripture beneath a rainbow that peeked through puffy white clouds overhead. As he paddled his way into the Gulf of Mexico on July 28, he lifted his baton in triumph. The finish, he said, was bittersweet: I want to be done, but I want more river to paddle.
AP Photo/Gerald Herbert Joshua Ploetz retrieves gear from his canoe as he sets up camp along the Mississippi River, in Donaldsonville, Louisiana.×
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One Planet MBA - University of Exeter, UK
Developing a new generation of business leaders
WWF and Exeter driving change in business educationBusiness education is central to the emergence of the new business models and the new generation of business leaders we need. Yet, as a sector, it is not moving fast enough. The One Planet MBA was initiated in 2010 by WWF and the University of Exeter – a UK Top 10 university – with the ambition to lead the way and inspire change.
The ambition to create value for the worldThis cutting-edge unique MBA embeds sustainability across the curriculum. It does not aim at training Sustainability or CSR specialists, but developing 'One Planet' minded business leaders who can run organisations in today's highly challenging context from any of the core business functions. Global in its outlook, this program is also made unique by the diversity of cultural and professional background as well as the gender balance of the cohorts.
The One Planet MBA is for experienced managers who want to gain the best business knowledge and skills, and use them to create value for the world. It is available Full-Time (12 months) and Executive (part time over 2 years).
For more information, visit the One Planet MBA website.
An outstanding and leading edge programme.
In particular the quality of the module design and assessment is impressive, especially the integration of social and environmental aspects into accounting and finance modules.
A very high standard of MBA education.
Jean Paul Jeanrenaud, Director, Business Education, explains how the One Planet MBA will change the face of higher education.


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1 man injured in accident, Corpus Christi police say
CORPUS CHRISTI - One man was injured after a one-vehicle accident in the 1300 block of Navigation Boulevard Monday.
Officers were called to the scene at 11:27 p.m. and found a black 2002 Dodge Ram truck in an empty field. Police believe the 44-year-old driver of the truck was traveling at an unsafe speed before he lost control and ended up in the field.
Officers said the driver was taken to Christus Spohn Hospital Memorial with nonlife threatening injuries. Police said the man had blood taken to test for driving while intoxicated. A passenger in the truck was uninjured, police said.
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Need Help? Call us at 1-800-566-8098.
Monday-Friday: 6am-3pm / Saturday: 7am-11am / Sunday: 7am-11am


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Hailing from North Hollywood, Danish Modern NoHo translates its obsession with function-focused design into a splendid, ever-expanding reserve of interior furniture. Each of the well-preserved pieces it obtains is routinely refurbished and carefully polished—ready for many more decades of loving use to come. This teak Coffee Table was crafted by Grete Jalk for Poul Jeppesen. Use it in your living room for a dash of Scandinavian style.
This vintage product has been refurbished and enhanced for everyday use.
This product has no reviews yet. Be the first to review this product. Write a review
Enjoy 10% off your first order*


text: That's the thing. They're recently drafted. If they're good, they'll be making more money when they renegotiate. Anywho, unless there's a big change in Wingert's or Beltran's performances, I don't think the team tries to replace them with a similar player to save $30k. In fact, maybe RSL should upgrade at outside back by paying more for someone who has real offensive skills without sacrificing defense.


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Well it was a busy day at the house after work. We had to prepare the pool for winter, cut the grass and go for a walk. I didn't have anytime to cook so I thought it was a good excuse for one of my favorite take out joints.
Even though I tend to call myself somewhat of a healthy eater and try to eat form all the food groups daily, every now and again you just have to break away and indulge.
This double cheese burger is amazingly juicy and very flavorful. With my favorite toppings ketchup , mustard, relish and sauteed onions…. What a gem! Not too mention killer fries with a little crunch and some hearty coleslaw and fresh cracked pepper.
After devouring this meal…. the best you can do is lie down on the couch and let your stomach stretch. It does it too me everytime even though I keep coming back for more. While I don't want to promote eating this food as a good thing – it is definitely not a bad thing in moderation.
What I would like to hear from everybody is what are their favorite burger toppings. The toppings that are a must have for you!


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For casual or recreational learning, classes such as "The Curry Course" and "The 30 Minute Dinner Party" are available at Mosimann Academy. Leiths School of Food and Wine also has classes for amateurs, but awards professional certificates and diplomas as well. If you'd like college credit, Schiller International University awards associate and bachelor degrees and American MBAs in international hotel & tourism management. For the widest selection of for-credit options, Thames Valley University's London School of Tourism, Hospitality, and Leisure grants everything from basic certificates and NVQs to bachelor's and master's degrees, in subjects ranging from cake decorating to Japanese cooking to resort and event management.
The London area has an unenviable "food rep": it's often thought of in Britain as being overrun with Indian restaurants, vaguely conceived in Middle America as the world headquarters of dimly lit fish & chips pubs, and implicated by writers Douglas Adams and Terry Pratchett as being the home of some of the universe's worst sausage. But the truth is that London is one of the most gastronomically diverse cities on earth, and also boasts a disproportionate number of the world's great hotels. If you want to study culinary arts or hospitality, London is an exceptionally good place to do it.


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|Natural Toys and Products
|Crafting, Handwork &
Children's Activities
|Rhythms & Routines
|Cooking, Baking and Recipes
|Celebrating Seasons
& Festivals
|Stories for Children
|Little Acorn Learning
Nature-Based Curriculum
for Childcare and Home
October 2007 Curriculum & Daily Guide
Now Available!
(November to be released 10/15)
FIVE Weeks of Blessings, Verses, Nature Walks, Crafts, Recipes,
Stories, Fingerplays and More!
This Months Curriculum is 40 Pages Long!!!
7 Page Daily Guide Included FREE with Your Purchase
Booklets are Sent Via Email as a PDF File
Only $19.95
Week One, October
Animals, Generosity
Week Two, October
Vegetables, Discovery
Week Three, October
Plants, Looking Within
Week Four, October
Candles, Enlightenment
Week Five, October
Pumpkins, Remembering Loved Ones
This Curriculum must be used in conjunction with the Daily Guide which guides
caregivers through each step of Our Daily Rhythm:
Morning Blessing
Daily Activity
Nature Walk
Children's Meditation
Outdoor Play
Rest Time
Caregiver Meditation
Evening Routines
Bedtime Story and Blessing
This program was designed for parents or childcare providers who wish
to share the joy of nature with the children in their care and create a
healthy rhythm to their day. It is ideal for mixed-aged situations with
ideas for both young and older children included.
Religious Orientation
While our curriculum is not religiously oriented, Little Acorn Learning
does honor a Creator in many of the verses, songs and blessings that we
use. We celebrate many seasons and festivals, with an emphasis on
Christian saints and holidays. We encourage you to weave your own
traditions and customs into the program to make it work best for your
Questions? Email Eileen!
|Little Acorn Learning
~ Mighty Oaks from Little Acorns Grow
Nature Based Caregiving for Young Children


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DALLAS (December 21, 2011) -- Super Bowl ticket-holders displaced during the February seating fiasco at Cowboys Stadium have filed court documents renewing fraud claims against the NFL and the Dallas Cowboys.
The documents filed Wednesday in Dallas federal court accuse the league and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones of recklessness in efforts to set a new Super Bowl attendance record at the Cowboys' new stadium in Arlington and doing nothing to discourage attendance.
That's despite no league and Cowboys responses to Arlington building inspectors' warnings that permits hadn't been sought for temporary seating being installed for the game. Eventually, 1,250 temporary seats were declared unsafe just hours before the game.
A federal judge threw out previous fraud allegations and dismissed the Cowboys as defendants in the suit but allowed the plaintiffs to amend their claims.


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Pomona College Museum Curator Rebecca McGrew Interviewed on KUSC's "Arts Alive" Program
Pomona College Museum of Art Senior Curator Rebecca McGrew was interviewed on KUSC's "Arts Alive" program on Saturday, August 27, with Glenn Phillips, principle project specialist and consulting curator in the Department of Architecture and Contemporary Art of the Getty Research Institute, who co-curated "It Happened at Pomona: Art at the Edge of Los Angeles, 1969-1973" with McGrew. This seminal three-part exhibition takes a look at the radical art projects that took place at Pomona College during those years, and is part of Pacific Standard Time: Art in L.A. 1945-1980, a six-month collaboration of more than 60 Southern California cultural institutions who are telling the story of the birth of the Los Angeles art scene.
View original source:


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For Prospective Students
Reasons to consider CS @ GW
The Computer Science (CS) department presents a unique opportunity to study an exciting and rewarding discipline in a highly-diverse, urban engineering school that combines the best features of a private university in an urban environment. The department has focused, excellent programs at all three levels (Bachelor's, Master's and PhD) and strives to balance research and teaching in its offerings to students.
For International Students
Our CS department is composed of a diverse student population, including students from nations all over the world. This page contains a few resources that International students (already here or those considering our Department) might find useful.
Click here to view International Students Testimonials.
For Undergraduate Students
- Programs
- Admission Requirements
- GW Admissions
- Transfer Students
- Financial Assistance
- Summer Camp for High School Students
For Graduate Students
- Programs
- Areas of Focus
- Research Areas
- Admission Requirements
- GW Admissions
- SEAS Admissions
- Courses
- Doctoral Qualifying Exams
- Information Sessions
- Financial Assistance
Job Opportunities
Select what type of job you are looking for to view the current listings. If you would like to submit information about a job opportunity, please email it to email@example.com.


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TV personality Dick Clark died Wednesday morning after having a heart attack.
Clark is best remembered for his New Year's Eve events and youthful appearance.
Clark had an outpatient procedure on Tuesday night at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, Calif. Following the procedure he suffered a heart attack. Doctors were unable to resuscitate him.
He is survived by a wife and three children.


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News Corp. and The Wall Street Journal plan to introduce micro-payments for individual articles and premium subscriptions to WSJ.com this fall, according to The Financial Times, which calls the move "a milestone in the news industry's race to find better online business models."
True/Slant launches – a new journalism model?
True/Slant is a new site that launched in Alpha today, "an original content news network tailored to both the "New Journalist" and marketers who want a more effective way to engage with digital audiences. Contributors, consumers and marketers each have a voice on True/Slant."
WSJ.com set to relaunch site
WSJ.com is set to relaunch on Tuesday, paidContent.org reports.
WSJ tech journalist to write online only
Kara Swisher, the prominent technology columnist for the Wall Street Journal who co-runs the WSJ's All Things Digital site, says she's giving up print for good and expects to only be writing online in the future.


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Product Name: fast linear average temperature, humidity chamber
Description: This series products are widely applied to detect aviation, aerospace, information, electronics, electrical, instrumentation, plastics, auto parts and other products that do accelerated damp heat test, constant damp heat test, alternating damp heat test, high and low temperature can also be used series of test, cold test, low temperature storage, in order to test the performance of the formulation of environmental conditions, acts, analysis and evaluation. Is available to you to predict and improve product quality and reliability basis.
Mechanical structure:
1, a digital box with CNC forming machine tools, arc elegant design, and no reaction with planar handle, easy to operate.
2, inside the box using SUS # 304 stainless steel resistant to high temperature. External resistance, high temperature steel plate using SEEC plus powder coating, to increase the appearance of texture and cleanliness.
3, fill water tanks placed in the lower part of the front control box, pull-out water tank design, a more convenient operator to add water. And can be equipped with automatic water system, with water filtration devices, without manual replenishment, to facilitate the operator to pay water.
4, a large observational visits to keep the box with bright lighting and the use of heating element embedded glass, stay clear of the situation within the observation window.
5, box made of high strength and high density PU foam glass fiber cotton, the thickness of 10cm, to avoid unnecessary energy loss.
6, box on the left and the top of the test with two 50mm diameter holes for external test power line or signal line.
Programmable controllers:
1, the controller used by the U.S. WINCONTROL, Japan UNIQUE, OYO series of touch-screen TFT LCD touch micro controller, beautiful, beautiful.
2, the product uses precision resistive touch screen operation, directly using a USB mouse or stylus, or tap the screen to function selection parameter.
3, programmable function 160Patten × 1600 step × 999 cycle of capacity.
4, the screen display: LCD display that shows test conditions (including temperature ranges, cycles, run time and remaining time, etc.).
5, with process control and valuation control function to facilitate the use of a variety of production conditions.
6, the temperature slope of the set, the control can be free running time and heating rate.
7, booking start, set the system time reaches the time, the system will automatically run, you can freely control the running time of aging housing and work conditions.
8, power restart feature, you can choose from cold / hot start / interrupt the operation.
9, temperature control using PID + SSR systems are synchronized control, and interface control components can improve the stability and lifetime use.
10, real-time curve and the curve of the query history, user-friendly real-time observation of temperature changes.
11, the history of the dump function. Has two USB ports, user-friendly to save historical data.
12, file backup feature.
13, external connection interface with the computer, you can connect to remote computer operation. Curve and the experimental data with the preservation of printing.
14, running total function, easy for customers to view product usage in order to make the appropriate maintenance and repair.
15, screen savers, and better to extend the life of the LCD screen.
16, system failure, fault information can be displayed, failure causes and solution methods.
17, with permission level set function, to avoid user errors.
18, the switching function in English, to facilitate users to operate in different languages.
19, the control modes: PID (proportional - integral - derivative) automatic calculation, PID control simple and easy to understand, use, accurate system models without preconditions.
20, in the set, such as when an error occurs, will provide warning signals.
21, switch machine function (controlled by the controller chamber lighting), for the designers can save costs and increase ease of use.
22, temperature sensor: PT-100 sensor; or one Swiss Zhuo Nick temperature and humidity sensor
High-temperature refrigeration and dehumidification systems:
1, France imported Taikang high efficiency and low noise, low-power refrigeration compressors.
2, the use of desiccant dehumidification mode condensation.
3, the whole system uses environmentally friendly R134a refrigerant.
4, K-TYPE inner spiral copper tube refrigerant.
5, the whole pipeline system are made through the nitrogen pressure 24H leak test the system to eliminate the possibility of refrigerant leakage.
6, air-cooled condenser.
7, slope-style FIN-TUBE evaporator.
8, imported frozen components.
9, the system main components: the compressor, heat exchanger, evaporator, refrigerant expansion valve, filter drier, solenoid valve.
Low-temperature refrigeration system:
1, the compressor:
a, imported from Europe, France (Taikang) armored warriors low-power high efficiency and low noise closed refrigeration compressor.
b, cascade refrigeration system using binary combination of refrigeration and cooling at room temperature design, the dual-cascade refrigeration temperature in different domains using different compressors acting to increase the useful life of equipment.
2, the whole system, R404a, R23 environmentally friendly refrigerant.
3, K-TYPE inner spiral copper tube refrigerant.
4, the whole pipeline system are made through the nitrogen pressure 24H leak test the system to eliminate the possibility of refrigerant leakage.
5, wavy finned-type forced air condenser.
6, slope-style FIN-TUBE evaporator.
7, imported solenoid valve, filter drier, Japan Kawamura capillary frozen components.
8, heating, cooling system completely independent of all refrigeration systems action program, fully controlled by the microcomputer controller, up to maximum efficiency and power saving advantages.
9, the system main components: the compressor, heat exchanger, evaporator, refrigerant expansion valve, filter drier, solenoid valve.
Wind Road System:
1, the wind circulation road designed with side hair next time the wind, the wind speed, air pressure are in compliance with test standards, and in an instant the door switch fast temperature stabilization time.
2, the use of high-quality powerful centrifugal fan air circulation, to avoid any dead ends, make the test area temperature distribution.
3, heating, cooling, humidification, dehumidification system is fully independent and can improve efficiency and reduce testing costs, increase life expectancy, reduce the failure rate.
4, more energy, in line with current international and domestic environmental requirements.
5, quieter, and better ensure a good working environment and the operator's work environment.
6, installation, maintenance and repair easy.
7, high quality and reasonable design.
8, all the components with high reliability.
9, the system main components are: air duct, heating pipes, evaporators, fans, motors, wind fin and so on.
Fast linear temperature / humidity chamber:
Meet GB10590-89, GB11158-89, GB10592-89, GB2423.1-92, GB2423.2-89, GJB150.1-86
Model YTHK / YHLK-100P (S)-A (BCDE) YTHXK / YHLK-150P (S)-A (BC
Test area dimensions (W × H × D cm) 40 × 50 × 50 50 × 60 × 60 50 × 75 × 60 80 × 80 × 80 100 × 100 × 100
Dimensions (W × H × D cm) 100 × 135 × 85 110 × 145 × 95 110 × 160 × 95 140 × 165 × 115 160 × 185 × 135
Performance temperature range +150 ℃ ~ -70 ℃ (A: 0 ℃; B: -20 ℃; C: -40 ℃; D: -60 ℃; E: -70 ℃)
Humidity 10% ~ 98% RH
Analytical precision HTHX-P: temperature 0.01 ℃, humidity 0.1% RH;
HTHX-S: temperature of 0.1 ℃, humidity 0.1% RH
Temperature stability ± 0.5 ℃
Temperature and humidity bias temperature deviation: ± 2.0 ℃; humidity deviation: ± 3% RH
Heating and cooling rates average 5/10/15 ℃ / min
Material Material SECC steel + foundation external paint
Internal material SUS # 304 stainless steel
PU insulation materials and insulation cotton
Refrigerator temperature and humidity control system Imported closed compressor Europe
Refrigerant R134a/R404a/R23
Fan Axial Fan
High performance heater heater
Steam humidification humidification system
Dehumidification mode ADP critical dew point cooling dehumidification mode
Air or water cooled refrigeration mode
Programmable controller monitors: U.S. WINCONTROL, Japan UNIQUE, OYO touch screen series.
Run the program mode, setting mode
PID control method calculus
Platinum resistance input PT100, or one Swiss Zhuo Nick temperature and humidity sensor
Observation of multi-hollow electric window heated glass coating
Other accessories test hole (∮ 50mm two or designated by the customer), a light box, compartment frame (two or designated by the customer), a tank, four casters
Over-temperature protection safety devices; leakage protection; water protection; humidification system protection; compressor over voltage, overload,
Over-current protection; fan overload protection; phase sequence protection
Power 220/380V, 50HZ
Optional temperature and humidity recorder, which can record temperature, humidity signal
Other sizes upon request made to meet customer requirements.
HTHK of constant temperature and humidity; HHLK for the high and low temperature
P is programmable, S is the standard
A, B, C, D, E represents the temperature range (A: 0 ℃; B: -20 ℃; C: -40 ℃; D: -60 ℃; E: -70 ℃)
Links: laohuafang | |


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Cleanliness is a very important aspect of human life, a clean environment is not only healthy but also a revitalizes and relaxes the human brain therefore improving on productivity, concentration and general alertness. Cleanliness should not only be ensured at home but also at work and here in California it should not be different. Maintenance of ducts is essentials for many residents. For those who require air duct cleaning Studio City professionals are highly qualified in this field.
Maintenance of ducts is one of the most neglected areas in most homes. This is because majority of the ducts are stacked away and therefore are not easily seen. Ducts are an important part of every household or a factory as they contribute to the overall comfort and efficiency in such environments and therefore their proper functionality and cleanliness cannot be overlooked.
Ducts have become a necessity for every modern building that is being put up. Essentially they are meant to assist in achieving certain goals by securing comfort and efficiency in any given premises. Maintenance is a major factor to proper functionality of any system. Neglected ducts accumulate a lot of dirt and animal wastes, resulting into rusting and leakages which can cause fatal fires. Bacteria breeds in a dirt and filthy environment.
There are many types of ducts that are present in a single premises be it a private or commercial. Among the most common maintenance services for a private residence include exhaust systems, air vents and condenser unit cleaning. The major services for commercial premises include checking air quality, heating & ventilating systems check up and removal of asbestos among others.
Many would agree that these services are indispensable and are seemingly do-able by anyone, however to get the best services a professional is the best option. Professional cleaning companies assure their clients of industry standard services, offer any advise necessary regarding the use, upgrades and maintenance. They will always have the right tools for the job therefore ensuring quality service.
Maintenance of ducts is a process that demands a professional touch and skills due to its complexity and importance. It involves dismantling of ducts for easier cleaning and this demands a proper knowledge of the working of air systems. It also requires disinfecting with antimicrobial agents so as to keep away termites and any other insects that might pose danger. The final stage is re-assembly and testing to ensure everything is in good working condition.
Services are available with many professional shops near your town. For any potential client it would not be hard to meet your need. Among the many advantages that comes with proper cleaning includes good health, comfort and overall efficiency. This is more important especially for industrial set ups whose environments can greatly influence the productivity of the workforce.
There are various maintenance service providers across towns offering quality and affordable services. To any potential client keen on comfort, good health and increased productivity well cleaned ducts are crucial. For those in need of air duct cleaning Studio City service providers are the best to contract.


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What is your favorite ice cream novelty?
Popsicles of any kind are usually what I reach for, but hubby brought home some Diana's Bananas 'banana babies' the other day and OMG! I'm hooked!! They're little bananas dipped in either milk or dark chocolate, with or without nuts. What's your favorite cold treat?
Talk is closed, but that doesn't mean the conversations have to stop!
Check out this post for a more thorough explanation, and jump onto our Facebook page or our Twitter feed to keep the conversations going!


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NCSY Searching For Volunteers To Aid Sandy Relief Efforts
We were just beginning to recover from Sandy and our region was hit very hard once again from this Nor'Easter they are calling Athena. There are so many people affected and we want to be able to respond to help with whatever they need. NCSY has been very busy working around the clock with disaster relief programs to help out those


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Nothing makes us want to push our glasses to the end of our noses and say "Girrrrrl" in a warning tone like news that Taylor Swift and Jake Gyllenhaal were spotted at dinner together. The pair were sighted in Nashville Wednesday night, dining at Bound'ry, a spot reportedly close to Swift's apartment. "They did eat. They were cordial to one another, but not affectionate," an eyewitness claims. "There was no holding hands, but they seemed happy together. They sat next to the fireplace just chatting away." Hopefully this is just Taylor's way of getting closure/extra song material, or else girl is going to end up with a death metal album by the end of this drama. Oh wait…do you think that's what happened to Taylor Momsen?
Gyllenhaal sure has a lot of 'splaining to do after not only taking his ex Jenny Lewis to the Golden Globes, but also making face time with Mila Kunis and Camilla Belle. All within a 48-hour time period! While Jake's reps have since declared the actor is "not dating" Belle, Swift's former rival for Joe Jonas, we suspect the damage might already be done. We personally are ready for the songstress to shut Gyllenhaal down and start plotting her next move. After all, there nothing that girl does better than revenge.
[Photos: Getty Images]


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Charles Parsons, 186-?
Physical Details: Photographic print : 1 item : sepia ; 25 x 20 cm.
Creator: unidentified photographer
Description: Head and shoulders portrait of Parsons.
Date based on Parsons' approximate age in photo.
Identification on verso (handwritten): Charles Parsons (courtesy of Miss Caroline C. Ives).
Forms part of: Harriet Endicott Waite research material concerning Currier & Ives, 1923-1956
Rights Statement: U.S. public domain
Citation: Charles Parsons, 186-?
Digital ID: 9289
- Parsons, Charles R.
View all Image Gallery items from the Harriet Endicott Waite research material concerning Currier & Ives


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Mary Lou Henry's Recipes of the Month: May
Recipes of the Month
The month of May is "Salad Month! I picked a few tantalizing salads from the Fruit & Vegetable Seminar to feature. These are great school salads that can be customized according to the amount of each fruit or vegetable you choose to use. Also, a food processor can be used in the production of all these recipes.
Rainbow Chopped SaladIngredients:
- bell peppers, chopped (red, green, yellow & orange)
- broccoli florets, chopped
- shredded carrots
- radishes, diced
- 1/2 cup Orange-Oregano Dressing
Place bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, radishes, dressing and onion in a medium bowl. Toss to coat.Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Orange-Oregano DressingDescription:
What this dressing lacks in calories and fat it makes up for in big, bold orange flavor and herbal oregano notes.Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest, freshly grated
- 1/2 cup orange juice, preferably freshly squeezed
- 1/4 cup cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh oregano, chopped, or 3/4 teaspoon dried
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Place all ingredients in a jar. Cover and shake to combine.
Fruit SalsaIngredients (A food processor can be used to dice all these or other fruits)
- Finely chopped or diced fresh strawberries
- Navel orange, peeled and finely chopped
- Kiwifruit, peeled and finely chopped
- Unsweetened crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1-1/2 Tablespoons sugar
In a small bowl, combine the six ingredients. Cover and refrigerate until serving.
Anyone building or renovating schools that involve kitchens, serving areas or dining areas; please contact me at firstname.lastname@example.com or 865-223-1150; or KaTom direct at (800-541-8683 or 423-586-5839). We would be grateful for the opportunity to provide quotes or respond to bids or RFP's on any and all items needed.
Thank You,
Mary Lou Henry


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[59% Off] Weekend IELTS Classes for 1 Person: 4 Sessions (3 hours per session) Covering Speaking, Listening, Writing, Reading, & Mock-up Tests for RM220 instead of RM540 Subscribe- 59%
[59% Off] Weekend IELTS Classes for 1 Person: 4 Sessions (3 hours per session) Covering Speaking, Listening, Writing, Reading, & Mock-up Tests for RM220 instead of RM540
- 4 x 3-hour International English Language Testing System (IELTS) weekend classes for 1 person.
- Covers reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
- Includes 8 mock-up tests and free consultation.
- Textbooks and learning materials provided.
- Teachers with over 14 years of experience.
- Groupons displayed on Android and iOS devices are accepted.
Fine Print
- Redemption period: May 11, 2013 – May 19, 2013.
- Bookings must be made between Apr 18, 2013 – May 4, 2013.
- Min. 7 days prior booking required. Bookings subject to availability.
- Rescheduling must be made at least 3 days prior to original booking or Groupon will be forfeited.
- For full list of class schedule, refer below write-up on the deal page.
- Limit 1 per person. May buy many as gifts.
- For first-time customers aged 15 and above only.
- Min. 5, max. 15 students per class.
- Missed classes will not be replaced.
- Classes that fall on public holidays will be replaced at another date.
- Students are not allowed to join in the middle of an on-going class.
- Students must attend classes for 2 consecutive weekends.
- Does not include IELTS exam. Customers are required to make their own arrangements if they would like to sit for the exam.
- Not valid with on-going promotions or discounts.
- Valid at Language Garden: 03-7732 7909 (Call Mon – Fri: 10am – 7pm, not including public holidays).
- See the rules that apply to all deals.
Classes are best delivered face-to-face; which is why schools have not migrated to online classes and your foreign friend still thinks he is living in your basement rent free. Capture knowledge with today's Groupon: for RM220, you get four weekend IELTS classes (RM540 value) at Language Garden in Damansara Perdana, Petaling Jaya.
Course outline
- 4 x 3-hour classes for 2 consecutive weekends (Saturday and Sunday)
- Covers speaking, listening, writing, and reading
- Includes 8 mock-up tests
- Free consultation
- Learning materials and textbook provided
Gain universal recognition with IELTS
- The International English Language Testing System is known as the world's number one English language test and is taken by more than 1.5 million people yearly.
- Passing the IELTS opens up doors to international education and employment all over the world; the higher your score, the higher the probability that you will be sought after by renowned universities and organisations within countries where English is their native language.
- English is also known for being a universal language. Having a grasp of the language gives you the upper hand when meeting new friends, potential business partners, and English aliens disguised as cricket players.
Class schedule
- May 11 (Sat) 9am – 12pm
- May 12 (Sun) 9am – 12pm
- May 18 (Sat) 9am – 12pm
- May 19 (Sun) 9am – 12pm
Students must attend classes for 2 consecutive weekends.
Phone: 03-7732 7909 (Call Mon – Fri: 10am – 7pm, not including public holidays)
Language Garden
Language Garden deal presented by Groupon Malaysia


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Crooked Little Vein: A NovelPaperback P.s.
List price $14.03
You save $2.00 14% off
Free delivery worldwide
Dispatched in 3 business days
When will my order arrive?
Additional formats available
- Format
- CD-Audio $29.99
- Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks
- Format: Paperback | 304 pages
- Dimensions: 128mm x 180mm x 24mm | 280g
- Publication date: 1 August 2008
- Publication City/Country: New York
- Edition statement: Reprint
- Sales rank: 38,164
Product description
A burned-out private detective is enlisted by an army of presidential goons to retrieve the U.S. Constitution...the real one.
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Author information
Warren Ellis is one of the most prolific, read, and admired graphic novelists in the world and the creator of Transmetropolitan and The Authority. He lives in southern England with his partner, Niki, and their daughter, Lilith. He never sleeps.
Review quote
"A heart-shredding work of scatological brilliance that gleefully annihilates private-eye tropes and pole-vaults over taste lines." -- Los Angeles Times Book Review "[A] brilliantly nasty and weird detective novel." -- Entertainment Weekly, EW 100 Pick "[C]ompletely compulsive, impossible to put down." -- Globe and Mail (Toronto) "CROOKED LITTLE VEIN...is a book readers will not soon forget." -- Chicago Tribune "Not for the faint of heart...surprisingly funny (with shades of Lamb author Christopher Moore)." -- Entertainment Weekly "[M]ay be destined to become one of the great underground classics of the 21st century." -- Lansing State Journal "A relentlessly fascinating page-turner...brilliantly and effervescently subversive." -- The Gazette (Montreal) "Ellis is a formidable talent whose wit and insight fit perfectly into the crime genre." -- Los Angeles Times "[A] much-needed kick in the butt for a genre that may be more stagnant than its enthusiasts realize." -- Philadelphia Inquirer "Packed with exciting, hilarious, and disturbing events...outrageously entertaining." -- Winnipeg Free Press "So funny you may just laugh out loud." -- Toronto Star "If you're looking for an antidote to the stifling formulae of genre fiction, this could be your book." -- New York magazine "Get ready for a wonderful kick in the teeth that'll make you lick your bloody lip with masochistic joy. " -- Brad Meltzer, New York Times bestselling author of THE BOOK OF FATE and writer of The Justice League series "Stop it. You're frightening me." -- William Gibson, author of Spook Country "[L]augh-out-loud funny...a deeply inventive look at the undercurrents beneath the mainstream popular culture." -- Charlotte Observer "Funny, inventive and blithely appalling, this book is Dante on paint fumes." -- Joss Whedon, creator, writer and director of the Buffy the Vampire Slayer series "[S]omewhere between the noir of Frank Miller and dark comedy of Chuck Palahniuk." -- Forbes.com "A high-energy joyride." -- Library Journal "CROOKED LITTLE VEIN is a gem of a book -- angry, hilarious, and just plain weird...compulsively so." -- Kevin J. Anderson, New York Times bestselling co-author of HUNTERS OF DUNE "Warren Ellis writes like a bi-polar Raymond Chandler." -- Kinky Friedman, author of Ten Little Indians "There's at least one surprise, laugh, and genius turn of phrase per page here. " -- Myspace Books "Think Kurt Vonnegut having tea with William Burroughs and a bipolar Raymond Chandler...Ellis takes your breath away." -- Madison County Herald (Mississippi) "[A] snappily paced homage to William Burroughs' Naked Lunch." -- Publishers Weekly "[A] fast-paced and funny read...unforgettable." -- Boise Weekly "CROOKED LITTLE VEIN is a wild, rambling, funny look at the dark alleys of the American sexual landscape." -- Neal Bohl for Crimespree "Rich, dark humor and biting look at the world." -- PopMatters.com


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01253 795 206
01253 795 202
We hire out an extensive range of skips for both domestic and commercial use.
FM waste management is an independent and family run business established over 18 years ago.
We provide waste management solutions throughout Blackpool and surrounding areas.
FM Waste management works closely with its parent company Woods Waste and prides itself on its recycling achievements, recycling over 85% of all the material it receives and responsibly disposes of any non-recyclable material, through its fully licensed waste transfer station.
FM Waste Management will accept large or small quantities of commercial, domestic and inert waste at our licensed waste transfer station
Following growth and an investment in plant and machinery, we are now able to offer a comprehensive range of recycled products.
Westby Landfill Site,
Anna's Road,
01253 795 202
01253 795 206
Email: email@example.com
Carriers Licence number: CB/YM3481KL


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Miss something? The Buzz is here to fill you in on eight essential news and sports stories that might have slipped past you.
• JCDA commits more money to Northeast State A new lease agreement between the Johnson City Development Authority and Northeast State Community College will provide the school with an additional $1.2 million to renovate the Downtown Centre.
• A NIGHT IN THE LIFE at the emergency pet clinic The staff at the Airport Pet Emergency Clinic see the good, the bad and the ugly at their Blountville location directly across from the Tri-Cities Regional Airport.
• Are joys of this world a taste of what is to come? In the past months, I've spent a fair amount of time puzzling over what comes next. And though I have no idea when I will make that transition — as my doctor said, "No one can tell you exactly when that will be" — understandably it's been on my mind.
• Fox News commentator discusses liberty vs. equality with local businesspeople There's an important national debate to be had. At the root of the discussion is a fork in the road: Do we, as Americans, need more liberty or more equality?
• UPDATE: Fire claims Boones Creek home, up to 17 animals' lives Despite spending approximately seven hours battling a blaze, firefighters were unable to save a Boones Creek home, or what could have been as many as 17 animals that were trapped inside.
• County planners to review campground regulations The Washington County Regional Planning Commission will begin a review of current campground zoning allowances and restrictions tonight, following a number of requests to the county's Zoning Administrators' Office for more inviting outdoor recreational opportunities.
• Local runners prepare for return to Boston Marathon after 2013 attack Three runners from the area are returning to the Boston Marathon after last year's terrorist attack near the race's finish line, and while their goal would normally be to set a personal-best time for the 26.2-mile distance, this year, things are different.
• Jonesborough BMA approves plan aimed at reducing employee, town health care costs Despite facing increases to insurance premiums, the town of Jonesborough elected to play the odds that helping its employees pay for medical care would be cheaper than paying for policies with low deductibles.comments powered by Disqus


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Palm Beach Atlantic will host Southeastern University for the first-ever men's soccer match held at the Rinker Athletic Campus. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 5:30 pm followed by a kickoff of 7 pm between the Sailfish and the Fire. Admission is free to this event. Buses for students will be running every 15 minutes from the Rinker Green to The RAC, beginning at 6 p.m.
|Christian Life
Life at PBA is about gaining perspective, and finding amazing opportunities to explore your faith, your potential and your world.


text: North East's Smathers Headed to West Point 07/05/2013 12:18 AM 07/05/2013 12:20 AM Running Star Mixes Sports and Country North East track and cross country star Ryan Smathers will further his career as a member of the United State Military Academy at West Point. Copyright 2013 Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. All rights reserved. Page: [[$index + 1]] sports sports connection top stories


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By Denise BrownAmerican Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, June 3, 2003 The Pentagon's latest military operation doesn't involve tanks, ships or aircraft. Operation Tribute to Freedom involves the American public.
Defense officials want people to be able to thank the men and women in uniform for waging war on terror.
On Memorial Day, traditionally a day to pay tribute to the nation's fallen service men and women, Defense Department officials launched Operation Tribute to Freedom. The initiative is "a way to thank the men and women in uniform who have done such an amazing job," said Chris Willcox, a deputy assistant secretary of defense for public affairs.
"There's an enormous number of spontaneous events going on around the country to thank troops," Willcox added. "Everything from Kiwanis events, Chamber of Commerce events, parades in small towns to declarations by cities and towns thanking the men and women in uniform."
Although most of these events have been focused on troops returning from Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Tribute to Freedom also salutes troops serving in other parts of the world. Troops serving in Afghanistan, the Philippines, the Horn of Africa and Georgia are all engaged in Operation Enduring Freedom's war against terrorism, Willcox said, "a war that continues, a war in which we are determined that we will prevail."
Willcox explained the Defense Department initiative encompasses three goals: first and foremost, to thank the troops. The second goal is to create a stronger bond between the military and citizens, and third, to underscore the fact that the global war on terrorism continues.
"It's not over yet," he stressed. "It's not even over in Iraq. It's still a dangerous place. We still have a lot of work to do in helping that country rebuild itself."
U.S. forces remain engaged in "ensuring stabilization activities in Afghanistan are successful and rooting out the terrorist groups and terrorist organizations that still operate globally and still represent a tremendous threat," he added.
As part of Operation Tribute to Freedom, defense officials are lining up military officers and enlisted troops, as well as civilian leaders, for speaking engagements in interested communities and organizations.
"We've got two major speakers programs," Willcox said. "In the coming months, veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom will be available to go communities and talk about their experiences. The second program, which we're calling our Hometown Heroes program, will send civilian and military leaders of all ranks back to their hometowns to talk to interested groups and organizations about ongoing efforts in the war against terrorism."
Holidays and special commemorations, such as the upcoming Flag Day on Saturday, June 14, will feature events to express support and appreciation for the troops.
For example, Major League Baseball will feature notable Flag Day troop tributes. Flagpoles at stadiums hosting more than a dozen games scheduled that day will sport a U.S. flag that has been flown over the Pentagon. Fans can focus on this special flag during the singing of the national anthem.
Also, Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch at the New York Yankees-St. Louis Cardinals game that day.
For more information about Operation Tribute to Freedom and upcoming events, go to DefendAmerica.mil, the Defense Department's Web site for news on the war on terrorism. The site features a way for the public to send welcome home messages to the troops and read a daily sampling submitted from across the country.
Site visitors can also search the online "Thank You Note" to pick out the names of people they know out of the nearly 11 million signers of the note since it was launched in May 2002.