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Jackson returned to consciousness with a yelping wail as thin wire wound tightly around his wrists, cutting into his skin. Blood drained down his forearms as his hands were hoisted up above his head and fastened to a metal hook hanging from a thick wooden beam.
He was still naked and his skin prickled with goose flesh as a deep chill settled in. He tried to look around, but the only light was a bare bulb screwed into a plain metal shade hanging a couple feet from the hook. The bulb was dim and flickered now and then, too weak to chase the shadows from what felt like a large open area.
The huge man moved around him. Jackson´s toes barely touched the cold concrete floor, causing the weight of his body to pull down on the wires cutting into his wrists. He ground his teeth as his jaw clenched in agony and his eyes watered. A wooden block was suddenly kicked under his feet. His legs shook as he stepped up on the block unsteadily, relieving some of the pressure on his wrists.
The storm raged outside, having risen to a crescendo once more. Strong winds beat at the walls of the structure. Wisps of the cold air reached Jackson's naked body, chilling him further. Whatever structure he was in wasn't insulated or air tight. With each tendril of wind that brushed against him, he caught the scent of hay and stale manure. He was in a large barn, or what had been a barn at one time.
Cold hands touched his back and he jerked reflexively, releasing a sharp gasp. A sudden torrent of rain hit the roof of the barn as powerfully as if the ocean had been dumped down on it in one shot. A strong gust of wind hurled through, swinging the metal shade and the light, wrapping around his body like the tongue of a demon licking him, tasting his skin.
Jackson shuddered as the cold hands moved over his body, exploring him. The man began to circle him closely, touching him all over. He paused in front of him and wrapped his hand around Jackson's cock, stroking him slowly. His other hand reached deeper and gripped his balls, fondling them, massaging his scrotum. Jackson squeezed his eyes shut and twisted his face away when the man pressed closer and brushed his lips against Jackson's cheek, breathing in his scent.
A groan rumbled deep inside the man and his stroking quickened, squeezing Jackson's cock more firmly in his fist. "You're gonna cum for me." The man's mouth was against Jackson's ear, his hot breath leaving a steamy film on his skin.
"Fuck...you." Jackson ground out between clenched teeth.
The wire was severing the nerves in his wrists. Jackson could no longer feel his hands but below the wrists, the pain was excruciating. The block beneath his feet helped take the weight off his arms and shoulder sockets, but it also put him at just the right level and angle for rear penetration.
The man was somewhere behind him. Not close. He could hear him moving around. Jackson knew his fate was inevitable, there was no getting away from his captor. Still, he couldn't wrap his mind around the impending sodomy. How does a hardcore, heterosexual man condition himself to being fucked by another man? He might be a rapist, but at least he raped women. He only fucked women. Jackson had never once felt curious about how it would be to fuck or be fucked by another man. He had planned on never finding out. Now that plan was in the shitter.
He could hear the man breathing, panting somewhat as he did whatever he was doing beyond Jackson's sight. There was a faint wet sound that seemed vaguely familiar but he couldn't focus his mind enough to pinpoint the source. Then the man began to pant harder and suddenly he was standing close behind Jackson. Jackson's body locked up, certain the next thing he was going to feel was the man's hard cock stabbing into his ass.
But the man just stood behind him, panting hard. The wet sound was louder and it hit Jackson what he was hearing; the man was jerking off. He'd coated his cock with a lubricant and was beating off only inches away from Jackson's naked body.
Jackson gasped suddenly when the head of the man's cock touched his ass cheeks, pressed between them and nudged his hole. Jackson drew away from him as much as he could, his jaw clenching and his eyes squeezed shut. The man moved with him, keeping the thick swollen head of his dick between Jackson's ass cheeks, but not penetrating him. He continued to jerk off, his breath harder, ragged, sketchy. Jackson knew that sound from personal experience. The man was about to blow his wad.
The man's massive arm suddenly wrapped around Jackson's waist and pulled him back against him. His other hand was still beating his cock fast and hard. His mouth touched the back of Jackson's neck, his breath as hot as lava on his skin. The man's body arched suddenly and his cockhead stabbed at Jackson's asshole just a little, squeezing him open just enough to make Jackson wince, then a sudden flow of fluid heat spread through the crack of Jackson's ass and drained down to his balls, dripping off his ball sack. Some of the man's cum slid down the inside of Jackson's thigh, slowly oozing down his leg.
The man's hot breath exploded against the back of Jackson's neck as his arm held him tightly. He rubbed his cockhead up and down through Jackson's ass crack, smearing the cum around.
"Let go of me, you sick fuck." Jackson croaked, nausea gripping him.
To his surprise, the man released him then moved around in front of him. Jackson tried not to look, but his eyes jumped to the man's cock. Having just cum, his dick wasn't hard and swollen, but it still hung heavily. Which told Jackson the man would be erect again in no time. The size of the man's cock, even without the erection, made Jackson want to puke. He was big. Huge. At least nine to ten inches, and surely at least three inches in circumference. Without an erection.
The man clutched Jackson's jaw and studied his face. "I had to do that." He murmured low, thick. "I couldn't take the chance of blowing my wad too soon and ending our play time before I was done playing."
His strong fingers pinched Jackson's face, making his jaw ache. He forced Jackson's mouth open by squeezing the crook of his jaw. Jackson resisted but couldn't stop the action. The man pressed up close. He was entirely nude and he rubbed his heavy cock against Jackson's dick. He jerked Jackson's face forward and covered his mouth with his own, thrusting his thick tongue deep inside. Jackson gagged and struggled, but the man's grip was like a vice, holding his head in place.
The man's hot breath swirled down Jackson's throat as his free hand reached behind Jackson, grabbed his ass and pulled him forward hard, grinding him against the man's thick, heavy cock. He could already feel the man's dick getting hard again.
All at once, Jackson could breathe again, the man's mouth removed from his. Jackson coughed and gagged and spit at the man. "You sick, twisted motherfucker!"
The corner of the man's mouth twitched with a smile. "You've got a nasty mouth on you, boy." He said. "But I know what to do with a nasty mouth."
Jackson swallowed tightly. Fear and severe nausea welled inside him. He would not suck the man's cock. Nothing this man threatened him with would make him open his mouth and willingly take his dick. He'd rather be dead.
As if reading his thoughts, the man moved away, back into the shadows and returned with something in his hand. Jackson strained to see what it was, but he kept it partially concealed behind his bare thigh.
"Now." The man spoke low, calm, deadly serious. "I'm gonna let your arms down. You're gonna get on your knees and you're going to suck my cock until it's hard again."
Jackson clenched his jaw and shook his head back and forth, tears burning his eyes. "No." He ground out sickly. "No."
"Yes, you will." The man stepped up close to him, his lips close to Jackson's. "And if you bite me...I will rip your teeth out one by one. And just so you know I'm serious..." The man raised his hand, revealing a heavy duty pair of wicked looking pliers. "I will demonstrate."
"No!" Jackson yelled and thrust himself back, kicking out at the man. But the man was already behind him, clutching his jaw with his strong hand, forcing his mouth open again, pinning Jackson's head into the crook of his shoulder. Strangled wails erupted from deep inside him. "I'll do it!" He cried, his words distorted from the man's fierce grip on his jaw. "I'll do it! I'll suck your cock!"
The man held him in place and lifted the pliers. Jackson's eyes bulged in his head as he stared at the tool. Tears drained down the sides of his face. "I wouldn't want you to change your mind right in the middle of it. I don't like it when a man bites my cock." The man spoke quietly, tightly. "As my momma used to say - an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."
"I won't change my mind!" Jackson wailed. "I won't! I won't bite you! I swear to God!""
"Don't swear to God." The man hissed against his ear. "That's irreverent."
He squeezed Jackson's jaw harder, forcing his mouth open wider. Jackson wailed and tried to thrash, but the man had his head locked in securely. He squeezed his eyes shut as the heavy metal pliers was inserted in his mouth. His chest heaved, his breath irregular and gasping as his heart raced dangerously. The pliers clamped onto a molar and tightened.
A strangled, muffled cry of protest exploded out of him seconds before his tooth was ripped from his gums. His head was instantly released and he screamed, dropping forward as much as his bound arms would allow. Blood drained from his mouth, down his chin and onto his chest. He cried out in agony and tried to spit the blood from his mouth, but the blinding pain stabbing through his jaw and up through his head made even the slightest movement of his mouth more excruciating.
Tears of pain streaked his face. He choked and coughed, gagging on the blood. His head hung down as the blood dripped onto the block, forming a small pool and trickling over the edge.
The man walked around in front of him, holding the pliers with Jackson's tooth still clamped in its grip. He held the tooth close to Jackson's bloodshot, teary eyes. "Remember." He spoke low, emphasizing each word. "No...biting."
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Jackson Pollock reading, 1943
Physical Details: Photographic print : 1 item : b&w ; 08 x 11 cm.
Creator: Reuben Kadish (1913-1992), photographer
Description: Shows Pollock, shirtless, seated in a wicker chair in his studio at 46 East 8th Street, with an early stage of his painting Guardians of the secret in the background.
Forms part of: Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner papers, circa 1905-1984
Rights Statement: Current copyright status is undetermined
Citation: Jackson Pollock reading, 1943
Digital ID: 13764
- Artists at or with their work
- Pollock, Jackson
View all Image Gallery items from the Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner papers

subset: commoncrawl


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Our Polar Journeys are dedicated to travel in the highest and lowest latitudes of the planet.
This collection of holidays includes both Arctic and Antarctic small-ship cruises as well as incredible land-based holidays such as polar bear watching in Churchill, Canada, once-in-a-lifetime adventures in the Antarctic Interior and ideas for extending your stay in Latin America.
Polar Journeys Special Offers
Through our collection of inspiring journeys and the expertise of our team, we can help you plan the ultimate polar adventure. As well as comprehensive itineraries, we also provide vessel information, deck plans and a complete list of departure dates.
Arctic Voyages »
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Antarctic Interior »
Our polar journeys are the largest collection of holidays in the marketplace. As we are not affiliated to one polar operator, we can offer a wide variety of experiences and types of holidays. With our many years of experience, first hand knowledge and the individual care and attention we pay to each of our clients, including arranging flights and stopovers on a tailor made basis, you are ensured quality service and most importantly, an excellent holiday.
Our polar specialists can talk you through your options and give advice on the holiday best suited to you. Call them on 01737 214 250 or send a quick enquiry »


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Gautam Dutta: Rather than engage in discussion and debate, many politicians find it easier to demonize their opponents, rather than debate the issues.
Marcy Winograd Cares About Me
Howard Zinn And J. D. Salinger: Two Heroes
Wendy Block: Both Zinn and Salinger remained true to themselves. Zinn maintained his radical stance when many of his contemporaries softened. Salinger rejected what he considered the phoniness of fame, and even stopped publishing (but maybe now, secreted works will go public). Though some of his rumored actions, if true, were eccentric, there's nothing reclusive about wanting to live a life free from an obsessively attentive outside world.
The Israel/Gaza Face-Off In Los Angeles
Linda Milazzo: Monday night, in remembrance of the one-year anniversary of Israel's Operation Cast Lead that killed 1,400 Gazans, and in solidarity with the 1,400 international peace pilgrims converging in Egypt from 42 countries for the planned Gaza Freedom March, Los Angelenos gathered in front of the Israeli Consulate for a solemn candlelight vigil.


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The Women and Spirituality Conference was born in 1981 and the purpose was to provide a supportive and nurturing setting for a dialogue of caring and mutual respect between and among women and men from many spiritual and religious traditions. The conference does not advocate or exclude any view and continues to foster an understanding and celebration of similarities and differences. May we continue to aid one another on our individual and communal spiritual journeys.
Minnesota State University, Mankato
109 Morris Hall
Mankato, MN 56001
507-389-2077 / Fax - 507-389-6377
email Go to Website then go to Women & Spirituality Program.


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Lion Air - Mechanic Lion Air, Recruitment SMA, SMK
Posted by lokercenter Update Thursday, June 13, 2013
PT Lion Mentari Airlines ( Lion Air ) was established in 1999 and started flying in 2000. The company operates Lion Air and Wings Air aviations for his brand. Currently, the Lion Air fleet consists of 92, including 67 Boeing 737-900ERs, 15 Boeing 737-800 NG, 5 Boeing 737-400, two Boeing 737-300, two Boeing 747-400, and 1 unit McDonnell Douglas MD-90. In 2004, Lion Air assessed by SWA Magazine as Best Brand Award 2004.
For those of you young professional candidates are energetic, intelligent, willing to work hard and be responsible, current Lion Air gives you the opportunity to develop a career filling vacancies, the following positions :
Mekanik Pesawat Udara
General Requirements
- Male
- Indonesian citizen (WNI)
- Max age 23 years old
- Min SMA IPA and SMK (Aviation, Mechanical, Automotive, Informatics Engineering)
- Min diploma score of 7 for Mathematics, Physics, and English
- Min height 162 cm
Documents required
- Hand written application letter
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Legalized copy of latest academic certifiate
- Copy of ID Card (applicants and their parents)
- Copy of Family Card (KK)
- Copy of birth certificate
- Copy of parents' marriage certificate
- SKCK (original)
- Color Photograph 4x6 cm (2 pieces)
If you are interested, please forward your complete applications above to Loket Ticketing Lion Air (Technic) Bandar Udara Internasional Juanda Surabaya - Jawa Timur. Selection process will held at Yogyakarta (1 July 2013), Denpasar and Malang (8 July 2013), Solo (9 September 2013), Surabaya (16 September 2013). Only short-listed candidates will be notified. Source of info : Lowongan Kerja Lion Air.
For those of you who are looking for job Lion Air - Mechanic Lion Air, Recruitment SMA, SMK and if it is expired, we are sorry. To get Lowongan Kerja Terbaru, Please you go to the following link : LOWONGAN KERJA TERBARU 2015. Hopefully Helpful !!
LOWONGAN KERJA TERBARU Juli 2015 >> LOKER Airline ~ LOKER automotive ~ LOKER Engineering ~ LOKER Fresh graduate ~ LOKER Lion Air ~ LOKER Mechanical ~ LOKER Seluruh indonesia ~ LOKER SLTA ~ LOKER SMA ~ LOKER SMK ~ LOKER TECHNICIAN


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Hours after we heard Rob Pattinson had temporarily moved out of the house he shares with Kristen Stewart in Los Feliz, following her apology for cheating with director Rupert Sanders, X17 snapped some shots of what could potentially be a moving van outside their home. Okay, maybe they just…decided to get…a big creepy van? Ugh, we know. It doesn't look good. You know what else doesn't look good? The photo of KStew sharing an intimate meal with Sanders in Berlin back in May. RadarOnline snagged the pic of Rupert and Kristen dining out at Monsieur Vuong without their respective partners; while it's not salacious, seeing them dining out and getting close doesn't exactly jibe with Kristen's assertion their cheating was something "momentary" and unplanned. We apologize for that ball of dread in your stomach right now, Robsten fan. We feel your pain.
Given the emotional fallout they're both dealing with, it's no wonder Rob has made like a love-sick Carmen Sandiego and dropped out of sight. He's allegedly been spotted at a variety of locales, including Montreal's Peire Eliot Trudaeu Airport flying into Canada. Hopefully he'll be able to lay low for as long as he likes; it's times like these when it's best for everyone involved to protect each other's privacy. With that in mind, here's some crazy talk from Rupert Sanders' dad! "From what I gather nothing really happened and it is all a lot of fuss about nothing. I should imagine it was something very brief," Michael Sanders told People. "She is a very pretty girl and when you work that closely with someone for so long, sometimes things happen." Papa Sanders! Do you want your daughter-in-law to dump your son? Because you are not helping. "Of course their relationship will survive this. This is nothing – they will definitely survive all of this. It is all a lot of fuss about nothing," he says about his son's marriage. We hope so, and that goes double for Robsten.
[Photo: Getty Images]


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As a full service production company, Twolight Films brings the art of design to life for projects big and small. Combining the aesthetics of experienced, award-winning graphic design with the latest in video and film technology, Twolight Films can bring a Hollywood sheen to your music videos, corporate videos, commercials, film projects, or life's special moments you want captured forever. And we do it all with a collaborative spirit and personalized attention.
Diego Gagliardi, founder of Twolight Films, began his career as an recording engineer, recording latin jazz, hip hop, rock 'n' roll and other popular music, as well as audio for children's books and sound effects for films. He then turned his creative eye to graphic and web site design where he worked for advertising agencies and corporate creative departments. Along the way, he never lost his love for the art of making movies and everything that makes movies magical. Naturally this drew him to the moving side of design where he developed a mastery of video editing, motion graphics and filmmaking. It is this combination of skills that sets Twolight Films apart. From short films to animated shorts and corporate videos, Twolight Films specializes in helping individuals and companies realize their creative vision. Let Twolight Films bring the art of design to life for your next project.


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If you're going to be in Miami for the art fairs this week, Robert Henry Contemporary will have my works available in Room 121 at Aqua Art Miami.
Address is 1530 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach FL (map).
Thanks, and Happy Holidays!
Pingback: News post – Napoleon fundraiser, congratulations to Andrea, Douglas Witmer in Europe, opportunities and more! | theartblog


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Ewing and Rocafort's "Ultimates" Stand Guard Against Alien Empires & Cosmic Entities
Comic Books
Showing results 72-111 of 151
Looking over Image Expo's announcements, Brett found himself wondering why more mainstream series don't go for the funny.
January has been filled with enough big comic book news to last a whole year, leaving writer Brett White no choice but to examine them all at once.
After a 2013, Brett believes that Superman's back in a big way for 2014, thanks to the work of creators Greg Pak and Aaron Kuder.
After briefly checking in with last year's inductees, writer Brett White inducts five more artists into his Colorist Hall of Fame.
Writer Brett White bids farewell to 2013 by counting down his top ten favorite comic book issues of the year.
Brett gets in on the list fun with a countdown of his own top ten favorite comic book series of 2013.
Brett spent the last few months trying to turn into Comic Book Writer Brett White, and now he looks at the medium in a totally new way.
Following his Thanksgiving with the X-Men, Brett rediscovers one of his favorite holiday issues and explores why tropes aren't so bad this time of year.
Following the shocking events of "Uncanny Avengers," Brett examines whether or not the issue really uses one of comics' most harmful tropes.
Brett White revisits a classic Thanksgiving issue of "Uncanny X-Men" and explains what modern comics could learn from the story.
With the announcement of the series' final issue (for now), Brett wonders why other superhero comics don't follow "Young Avengers'" example.
Marvel Studios is on a victory lap following "The Avengers," and writer Brett White has realized what they've done right.
Brett White explores the new storytelling opportunities created by the new Muslim Ms. Marvel, and challenges nay-sayers to check their privilege.
Lifelong X-Men devotee Brett White tries to pinpoint exactly what about the film's new trailer doesn't sit right with him.
In the wake of Marvel's "Fearless Defenders" cancellation, Brett White offers some words of advice for the book's dedicated readers.
Faced with one of the more uncertain times of his professional career, Brett White recounts just how New York Comic Con reaffirmed his faith in the industry.
With a new ongoing series coming our way as part of the next wave of Marvel NOW! titles, Brett White explains why She-Hulk is one of the most important heroes in comics today.
In an incredibly spoiler-free piece, Brett White examines how superhero comics' never-ending nature separates the genre from other serialized fiction, highlighted by the recent finale of "Breaking Bad."
Before placing any judgment on "Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.," writer Brett White wonders just how this niche show from a fan-favorite creator made its way onto network TV.
After moving apartments, Brett White wonders why he feels the need to show off his passion for comic books by hanging onto thousands of single issues.
Brett White really wants to like DC Comics, but the company's recent spate of decisions, talent departures and statements continue to result in a less and less DC-heavy pull list.
When it comes to making snarky comments and insulting creators under cover of the anonymity provided by the Internet, Brett White urges fans to consider the ramifications of their remarks.
Brett White has reached his breaking point with his hefty monthly pull list on its way towards four dozen titles - and he doesn't know what to do about it.
Writer Brett White has discovered a new favorite comic -- "X-Men: Vignettes" -- one that's actually over 25 years old.
After reading "Kick-Ass 2" for the first time, Brett White has come to realize that the old saying "with great power comes great responsibility" applies to writers as well.
With shelf space hard to come by in his NYC apartment, Brett weighs the benefits and drawbacks of leaving the back issue bins behind in favor of digital storefronts.
Brett managed to survive his first ever Comic-Con International - okay, seriously, he met Joss Whedon while in San Diego, and his life has been changed forever.
Just before boarding the flight to his first ever Comic-Con International, Brett White takes a wild guess at what he'll encounter when he arrives in San Diego. He is unprepared.
After decades of searching, Brett White is ready to declare one comic book shop as his favorite, even if it does exist well beyond his immediate vicinity, taunting him with its fancy Comics U courses.
Marvel Studios has three unannounced films scheduled to arrive theaters over the next several years. Brett White has determined that one of them has to be female-led, so why not make it Captain Marvel?
After hearing Superman fans' opinions about "Man of Steel," Brett reflects upon the film career of his beloved mutants while opining on which four-color era of X-Men adventures would make for a solid film.
Upon returning from this year's HeroesCon in Charlotte, North Carolina, Brett reflects on how Captain Marvel's fans, members of the growing Carol Corps, reflect the future of comic books.
Brett braces for the online freakout surely set to accompany the latest death-filled issue of Dennis Hopeless' "Avengers Arena" as thousands of voices cry out as one on Twitter and Tumblr.
Brett has recently come to the realization that Rogue is his favorite X-Man, just in time for the debut of Brian Wood and Olivier Coipel's "X-Men" #1.
After having previously declared his lack of interest in comic books' most iconic character, Brett confesses he's had a change of heart when it comes to Superman.
Upon reflecting on his two decades of being an X-Men fan, Brett realizes the lessons he's learned from Marvel's ever-evolving group of mutant outcasts.
Brett has a bit of a problem with DC Comics covering up He-Man with the character's new costume, and the general trend towards the ever-growing fabric imprisonment of male heroes' legs.
Brett returns from a trip to Oregon for the Stumptown Comics Festival and is ready to unpack both his suitcase and his thoughts about Portland, the comic book capital of the United States.
Brett shares five things that hyper-critical comic book fans need to accept before seeing this year's slate of movies adapting or otherwise based on comic books.
This week, Brett White finally writes a column explaining that every character, even the much-maligned, one-time X-Man Maggott, has potential.
Archives: All | Comic Books | TV/Film | Video Games | Web Comics


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Arizona Sanitarians' Council
Welcome to the Arizona Sanitarians' Council home page. The Council was created to establish standards for persons employed as sanitarians in Arizona and to provide for the examination of applicants for registration as sanitarians. The Council is located within the Bureau of Epidemiology and Disease Control Services. To learn more about the Council and how to register as a sanitarian in Arizona, please explore our web page.
Stay Informed
The Arizona Sanitarians' Council values your partnership and your time. In an effort to be more efficient, we are changing the system we use to communicate health related information to you. This list will be used for announcements and updates; it will not replace but will enhance the person to person contact you have come to expect. Registering for this email communication will allow us to keep you up to date on information that supports your efforts to improve the health of all Arizonans.
To add yourself to this list please do the following:
- Visit the ADHS Communications sign up page
- Enter your email address and click "Continue"
- Click the box next to "Arizona Sanitarians Council"
- Feel free to choose additional topics you would like to receive info on from ADHS


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Bus-Bike Shelters provide long-term, secure and weather-protected bicycle storage for commuters making connections to and from local or regional transit routes. Combine a bus trip and bike ride by using the shelter to complete the first or final mile of your commute! Your bike will be secure and sheltered from the weather and you'll no longer have to load your bike on and off the bus everyday!
Started in 2013, the Bike Count Program aims to understand cyclists' usage of Boulder County roadways, so that improvements can be made in order to facilitate more biking throughout the area.


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Shows how to turn a daytime summer scene into a nighttime winter scene using Photoshop and After Effects, with illustrator David Mattingly's production-proven matte painting techniques.
"Your presenters are superb. They work well with the camera, they are eloquent, speak well, and establish a collegial rapport with the learner." —Brian C.
more from our members »


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Now Playing
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The Thistle and Shamrock
5:13 pm
Wed April 18, 2012
Thistle And Shamrock: Ferintosh
By Staff
We explore a distinctive blend of Celtic and Baroque music this week, largely sourced from 18th century collections of Scottish airs and dance tunes. It comes to us from Ferintosh (cellist Abby Newton, harper Kim Robertson, fiddler David Greenberg) who join host Fiona Ritchie to chat about their musical inspirations and journeys.
Copyright 2012 National Public Radio. To see more, visit http://www.npr.org/.


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It began with Ron Artest telling Phil Jackson to shut his yapper. It ended with Ron Artest completely unable to shut his own yapper.
It began with Kobe Bryant wearing what appeared to be women's clothing. It ended with him being fitted for a man-sized ring.
In 61 draining days of spring, the Lakers postseason covered a gamut of events and emotions as wildly diverse as the tears that eventually fell from their exhausted eyes, the only constant being the plays that created their second consecutive, and 16th overall, NBA title.
In the end, the 2009-10 Lakers' playoff legacy will be written not with glitz and glib, but with these plays, not all pretty, not all dramatic, but all of them championship.


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Blue Notes & Upcoming Shows
From pop to blues, funk to bop, Tyson Lynn measures the familiar, the unusual, and the up and comers in the Seattle music scene.
Monthly Archive for February, 2012
Go Psycho!
The Psychotronics, The Coloffs, and The Do Wrongs play the Jewelbox at the Rendezvous tonight at 9pm. Come out! [Read More]
Your Weekend Events
HONK! Around the World hits landfall on Saturday, The Aurora Roarers Spy Device Earl Brooks, and your last chance at Cocktails. [Read More]
Fat Tubaluba
It's Mamba Gras! [Read More]
The Weekly has seen Cocktails. Have you?
Well, why not? It's a wondrous production, that is both funny and sly. And I say that from the unbiased perspective of someone involved! [Read More]
Receive a Happy Ending on St. Valentine's Day
Only at the Blue Moon! [Read More]


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pokemon Heat Ruby and Pokemon Cool Sapphire
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May 28th, 2011 (01:07 AM).
Teh Blazer
Divider of Zero
Join Date: Feb 2009
Location: 'MERICA
Age: 19
Gender: Male
Nature: Relaxed
Posts: 693
I like the screens although a few of them seem too empty. Some of the Gym Leaders need obvious work (Roxanne's eyes are out of place, Wattson's head seems a big funky, and Norman is wearing freakishly long stilts with his pants) owever the other ones look quite decent.
I hope the remake exceeds!
Coming soon...
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Kicking off the weekend with a bang on Friday will be the 18th Annual Fireworks Show at Richard B. Russell State Park in Elberton, Georgia.
The show is a presentation by the Elbert County Chamber of Commerce.
Chamber President Phyllis Brooks offers some pointers to help make the experience a good one.
"Everybody coming out needs to remember to bring their lawn chairs and flashlights", said Brooks. "One other tip we try to give people is to turn around when they come in so they are facing out of the park, so that when the fireworks show is over it will be easier for them to get out."
She also says to keep in mind that no alcoholic beverages are allowed in the park.
"One other reminder, is that people need to remember we don't have alcoholic beverages at the park, so if they will leave those at home, we will have a great evening", said Brooks.
Admission into the fireworks show will be ten dollars per vehicles starting at 5:00pm on Friday, June 28th.
The fireworks are set to go off promptly at 9:20pm.
For more information about the upcoming fireworks show, contact the Elbert County Chamber of Commerce at (706) 283-5651.


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Retail therapy cures all
I'm not exactly suffering from any malady that I can think of, apart from a general case of apathy regarding most things, but my spirit is somewhat lifted after receiving a care package from Buywell Just Classical in Western Australia. It has been quite some time since I last purchased some classical CDs so I decided to fill in a few gaps in my collection…
My ten most favourite composers
I've often thought about this particular question, and usually give up because it's not a very easy one to answer! Well, lately I've given it some more thought, and if I don't at least get it written down, then I'll have no way of seeing how my interests change over time.


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The gallery has been updated with over 1200 HQ screen captures of Josh last film 'Battle of the Year', that can be find on USA in DVD/Blu-Ray/iTunes. The UK release is set for March 10.
Battle of the Year is an international dance crew tournament that attracts all the best teams from around the world, but the Americans havent won in fifteen years. Los Angeles Hip Hop mogul Dante (Alonso) wants to put the country that started the Sport back on top. He enlists his hard-luck friend Blake (Holloway), who was a championship basketball coach, to coach his team. Armed with the theory that the right coach can make any team champions, they assemble a Dream Team of all the best dancers across the country. With only three months until Battle of the Year, Blake has to use every tactic he knows to get twelve talented individuals to come together as a team if they're going to bring the Trophy back to America where it started. Inspired by the actual world championship held yearly in France.


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|- FLSA Overtime Security Advisor
Compensation Requirements
In addition to meeting certain duties tests, to qualify for exemption under the Regulations, Part 541, generally an employee must be paid at a rate of not less than $455 per week on a salary basis. As a general rule, if the exempt employee performs any work during the workweek, he or she must be paid the full salary amount. An employer may not make deductions from an exempt employee's pay for absences caused by the employer or by the operating requirements of the business. If the exempt employee is ready, willing and able to work, an employer cannot make deductions from the exempt employee's pay when no work is available.
To qualify for exemption, employees generally must meet certain tests regarding their job duties and meet certain compensation requirements. Job titles do not determine exempt status. You should also review the other sections of this Advisor for help in determining whether the employee meets the duties tests for exemption.
Deductions from pay are allowed:
In addition, deductions may be made from the pay of an exempt employee of a public agency for absences due to a budget-required furlough, and special rules apply when such employees take partial-day (or hourly) absences not covered by accrued leave.
Each of these allowable deductions is described elsewhere in the Compensation Requirements section.
What kinds of deductions are not allowed?
Deductions for partial day absences generally violate the salary basis rule, except those occurring in the first or final week of an exempt employee's employment or for unpaid leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act. If an exempt employee is absent for one and one-half days for personal reasons, the employer may only deduct for the one full-day absence. The exempt employee must receive a full day's pay for the partial day worked. Other examples of improper deductions include:
What is the effect of isolated or inadvertent improper deductions?
Improper deductions that are either isolated or inadvertent will not violate the salary basis rule for any employees whose pay had been subject to the improper deductions, provided that the employer reimburses the employees for the improper deductions.
What if the improper deductions are not isolated or inadvertent?
If an employer has an actual practice of making improper deductions from employees' pay (as opposed to isolated or inadvertent improper deductions), the salary basis rule will not be met during the time period in which the improper deductions were made for employees in the same job classification working for the same manager(s) responsible for the actual improper deductions. Therefore, the affected employees will not have been paid on a salary basis as required for exemption during that time period.
How do you distinguish between isolated or inadvertent improper deductions and an actual practice of making improper deductions?
An actual practice of making improper deductions demonstrates that the employer did not intend to pay employees on a salary basis. The factors to consider when determining whether an employer has an actual practice of making improper deductions include, but are not limited to:
If an employer has a clearly communicated policy that prohibits the improper pay deductions that includes a complaint mechanism, reimburses employees for any improper deductions and makes a good faith commitment to comply in the future, the salary basis of pay will not be violated unless the employer willfully violates the policy by continuing to make improper deductions after receiving employee complaints.
What if the employer does not reimburse the employee for the deductions?
If the facts show that the employer has an actual practice of making improper deductions and the employer fails to reimburse employees for any improper deductions or continues to make improper deductions after receiving employee complaints, the salary basis rule is not met and the exemption is lost during the time period in which the improper deductions were made for employees in the same job classification working for the same manager(s) responsible for the actual improper deductions.
FLSA Overtime Security Advisor Main Menu | Wage and Hour Division


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You can still get a list of all the latest posts across all boards, just like on the old format. Read this for more.
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Liverpool's players, legends, celebrities and pundits all flocked to Twitter to hail the Reds' 3-0 demolition of Manchester United on Sunday - and we've pulled in some of the best for you to enjoy by scrolling down the page.
What a win!! Get in there boys!! Striving to be second to none.... #redordead pic.twitter.com/YqaSMP7o1c
— Daniel Sturridge (@D_Sturridge) March 16, 2014
A convincing win at Manchester United. LFC is the most exciting team to watch in football.
— John W. Henry (@John_W_Henry) March 16, 2014
Big win for the Redz @LFC vs ManU!! S/O Suarez and Gerreard on leading the club to victory. #YoullNeverWalkAlone #StriveForGreatness
— LeBron James (@KingJames) March 16, 2014
What a result..... Great performance and another big 3 points!!!
— Glen Johnson (@glen_johnson) March 16, 2014
Happy to be back playing. Great result today. Well done everyone ! #LFC
— Lucas Leiva (@LucasLeiva87) March 16, 2014
The full 3 points again away from home! #rollon pic.twitter.com/1OGpvhzu4K
— Simon Mignolet (@SMignolet) March 16, 2014
I WISH I was that lens! Well done, lads. @LFC pic.twitter.com/dNjRtEW0dW
— Kim Cattrall (@KimCattrall) March 16, 2014
Great game, great atmosphere!! Hardcore keeper.. With friends like that, who needs enemies? :) pic.twitter.com/B5g8AaKFPV
— Daniel Agger (@DanielAgger) March 16, 2014
Well that was a very enjoyable 90 minutes of my life. Liverpool fantastic team performance, Gerrard immense as always #lfc
— Terry McDermott (@TerryMac777) March 16, 2014
Great result and performance from @LFC today.The title fight will be fierce.#YNWA
— Djimi Traore (@Djimi_Traore19) March 16, 2014
Divine approval. Maradona applauds Gerrard's second penalty. 2-0 to #lfc.
— Henry Winter (@henrywinter) March 16, 2014
Well done LFC, tremendous performance and even better result.The dream is still alive.
— Didi Hamann (@DietmarHamann) March 16, 2014
Tagged: manchester united , old trafford , tweets , twitter , united
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The views expressed here are not those of Liverpool Football Club (read more)


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Freeport still tallying cost of Aug. 13 rain storm
FREEPORT — All roads in town are open after last week's record-setting rain storm, but the cost to repair damage is climbing.
Earl Gibson, Public Works superintendent, said damage from the Aug. 13 storm is estimated at around $100,000. No power lines went down, but several roads were washed away. He said all of them have been reopened.
"At this time, all the roads in Freeport are open," Gibson said on Tuesday, "but we're still working on fixing shoulders."
Gibson said the road shoulders will be repaired by mid-week next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Gray, 6.43 inches of rain fell in Portland on Aug. 13, with 4.2 inches falling between 9 and 11 p.m. The storm set a city rainfall record for the date, and became the fifth wettest day in city history dating to 1871.
The storms ranked ahead of the Aug. 13 deluge were all related to tropical events, according to the NWS.
The day after the storm, Gibson had said four or five roads were closed and others were reduced to one lane. Damaged roads included Upper Mast Landing Road, Beech Hill Road, Murch Road, Prout Road, and Fernald Road.
Of the damaged roads, Upper Mast Landing Road received more serious damage and was one of the first to be worked on.
On Aug. 14, Jeff Goldrup of Public Works was working on Upper Mast Landing Road and filling in areas where the road washed away. At around 2 p.m., he said he had been working since midnight.
"We'll get all the worst ones taken care of and we'll take care of the little spots next week," Goldrup said.
Gibson said that many people called the Fire Department throughout the storm about having water in their basements.
"Firefighters were out doing several basement pumpings, but not as many as expected," Gibson said.
Between Aug. 13 at 11:30 p.m. and Aug. 14 at 6 a.m., the department reported seven calls about water problems.
According to Gibson there were no major accidents or rescues related to the storm. He said there was one incident where a car was driving along Route 1 and the water was too high for the car to pass. Gibson said the driver called for help and the car had to be towed.
As for any lasting damage, Gibson said the only things left to deal with are the washed out road shoulders and the cost.


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Around the Nation
It's The Time Of Year When Big Pumpkins Make News
Originally published on Mon October 10, 2011 12:22 pm
Good morning. I'm Steve Inskeep with pumpkin news. A certain six-year-old picked a Halloween pumpkin yesterday that weighed 19 pounds - a speck compared to the pumpkin that set a Minnesota State record. It weighed 1,630 pounds and didn't even win a contest. An out-of-state pumpkin was 27 pounds heavier. In Rhode Island, a man won a contest with a pumpkin four pounds heavier than that - 1,661. Still short of the world record. You are listening to MORNING EDITION. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR.


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OEMC News Affairs 312.771.5592
The Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) cautions residents to be mindful when heading out into the cold weather over the weekend and into next week as temperatures are expected to hit single digits and drop below zero degrees for the first time this winter.
The City of Chicago works with the National Weather Service (NWS) to monitor the weather on an on-going basis to prepare for extreme weather as early as possible should it occur. According to NWS, the city is predicted to experience the following temperatures over the next five days:
Daytime: A 50 percent chance of snow, mainly after noon. Cloudy, with a high near 29. East southeast wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 15 mph.
Evening: Night Snow likely before midnight, then a chance of snow and freezing drizzle. Cloudy, with a low around 22. Chance of precipitation is 70%.
Daytime: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 26.
Evening: Partly cloudy, with a low around 11.
**For the Bears kick-off time, weather at Soldier Field is expected to be about 16-degrees; with northwest winds from 12 to 24 mph. Additionally, snow showers may develop late Monday night or early Tuesday.
Daytime: Mostly sunny, with a high near 24. Breezy.
Evening: Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 11. Breezy.
Daytime: Partly sunny, with a high near 19. Wednesday.
Evening: Partly cloudy, with a low around 11.
As always, the City urges residents to prepare for cold temperatures and snowy conditions throughout the winter by taking steps, such preparing emergency kits for residences and vehicles and stocking up on necessities. In addition, the City urges residents to be prepared for the blustery weather ahead by taking the following tips:
Additionally, residents who may be without heat can head to any of the six Community Service Centers operated by the Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS), which are located throughout the city that double as warming centers on weekdays during the winter months when temperatures fall below 32 degrees. Hours for Community Service Centers are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Garfield Community Service Center, located at 10 South Kedzie, is open on a 24-hour basis to connect residents to emergency shelters.
Those seeking a warm place to go on weekends, holidays, or after hours should call 3-1-1 to be directed to available City facilities. Seniors or individuals with limited mobility may call 3-1-1 to request a ride to any of the centers. And individuals requiring emergency overnight shelter should also call 3-1-1.
For more winter weather preparedness tips, visit www.AlertChicago.com and to receive Chicago emergency and non-emergency notifications, register at www.NotifyChicago.org.
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Farmers market: Dandelion greens from special seeds
It's a small market, but in East Ventura in front of the Moose Lodge discerning shoppers can still find fresh treats to perk up the dinner table.
At the booth of Arreola Farm of Oxnard, Jose Arreola was selling some spicy watercress, which is not only delicious in salads, but also in delicate tea sandwiches where they provide a nice spicy bite on crustless sandwich bread spread with butter.
He also had some lovely, large dandelion greens that he said are grown from special seeds. "These are not the kinds of dandelions you find in the ditches or in the yard," he said.
At the booth of All-Green Farm of San Bernardino and Riverside, Tae Park said they are between seasons — still putting out apples and pears from last season, as they wait for the summer crops of peaches, nectarines, plums and other stone fruit to start coming in.
Kelsey Barkan of Kelsey's Anytime Fudge is finding that her new gluten-free, sugar-free muffins, scones and cookies are proving big sellers in addition to her always-popular fudge. New fudge flavors include dark chocolate, almond and chocolate lemon.
Sundays: 8:30 a.m.-noon, College of the Canyons (parking lot 8 off Valencia Boulevard), Santa Clarita (529-6266). 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 300 E. Matilija St., Ojai (698-5555). 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Agoura Hills City Mall, Kanan Road (818-591-8286). 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Harbor and Channel Islands boulevards (includes a fish market), Oxnard (643-6458). 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Village Glen Plaza, between Agoura and Townsgate roads, Westlake Village (818-591-8286).
Wednesdays: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Pacific View mall parking lot facing Main Street, Ventura (529-6266).
Thursdays: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Plaza Park at Fifth and C streets, Oxnard (643-6458). 1:30-6 p.m., The Oaks shopping center, at Thousand Oaks Boulevard and Wilbur Road, Thousand Oaks (529-6266). 3-7 p.m., Loyal Order of Moose Lodge, 10269 Telephone Road, Ventura (263-2907).
Fridays: 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Regal Cinemas/Civic Center Plaza, 2750 Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley, (643-6458). 3-7 p.m., The Village at Moorpark Shopping Center, southwest corner of East Los Angeles Avenue and Miller Parkway, Moorpark (479-9699).
Saturdays: 8 a.m.-noon, 2220 Ventura Blvd., Camarillo (386-3584). 8-11 a.m., fish market behind Andria's Seafood Restaurant, 1449 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura (644-0169). 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., 2665 W. Hillcrest Drive, Newbury Park (323-272-9171). 8:30 a.m.-noon, Palm and Santa Clara streets, Ventura (529-6266).
Subscribe to the Ventura County Star
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Norway's West: Fjords, Mountains and Bergen
For Scandinavia's most thrilling sightseeing, we sail under towering fjord cliffs, hike on powerful glaciers, and find surviving traditions in remote farm hamlets. Then we delve into the Hanseatic heritage and enjoy the salty hospitality of Norway's historic capital, Bergen.
Travel Details
Nigard Glacier (Nigardsbreen)
The Nigard Glacier is the most accessible branch of mainland Europe's largest glacier (the Jostedalsbreen). Visiting a glacier is a quintessential Norwegian experience, bringing you face-to-face with the majesty of nature. The Breheimsenteret Glacier Information Center stands at the entrance to the Nigard Glacier valley and offers family-friendly walks on the ice (WCs, gift shop, cafeteria, museum, tel. 57 68 32 50, www.jostedal.com).
FjordSafari to Nærøyfjord
FjordSafari takes little groups out onto the fjord in small, open Zodiac-type boats with an English-speaking guide. Participants wear full-body weather suits, furry hats, and spacey goggles. The shorter Flåm–Gudvangen–Flåm tour focuses on the Nærøyfjord, and gets you all the fjord magnificence you can imagine. A longer version includes a stop in sleepy Undredal (tel. 99 09 08 60, www.fjordsafari.no).
Walaker Hotel in Solvorn
Walaker Hotel is set right on the Lustrafjord (with a garden perfect for relaxing and, if necessary, even convalescing). The 22 rooms are divided into two types: nicely appointed standard rooms in the modern annex, or recently renovated "historic" rooms with all the modern conveniences in two different old buildings: rooms with Old World elegance in the main house, and brightly painted rooms with countryside charm in the Tingstova house next door (tel. 57 68 20 80, fax 57 68 20 81, www.walaker.com, email@example.com).
Norway in a Nutshell
The most exciting single-day trip you could make from Oslo or Bergen is this circular train/boat/bus/train jaunt through fjord country. The basic idea is this: Take a train halfway across the mountainous spine of Norway, make your way down to the Sognefjord for a boat cruise, then climb back up out of the fjord and get back on the main train line. Fjord Tours sells the Nutshell package and other package trips at all Norwegian State Railways stations, including Oslo and Bergen, or through their customer-service line in Norway (tel. 81 56 82 22, www.fjordtours.no).
Borgund Stave Church
About 16 miles east of Lærdal, in the village of Borgund, is Norway's most-visited and one of its best-preserved stave churches. The church comes with one of Norway's best stave-church history museums, which beautifully explains these medieval icons (buy tickets in museum across street, museum has a shop and cafeteria, tel. 57 66 81 09).
Kviknes Hotel in Balestrand
Kviknes Hotel is a picturesque wooden hotel that has welcomed tourists to Balestrand since the late 19th century. The hotel has two parts: a new wing, and the historic wooden section, with 17 older, classic rooms, and no elevator. All rooms come with balconies. The elegant Old World public spaces in the old section make you want to just sit there and sip tea all afternoon (tel. 57 69 42 00, fax 57 69 42 01, www.kviknes.no, firstname.lastname@example.com).
Håkon's Hall in Bergen
Håkon's Hall, dating from the 13th century, is the largest secular medieval building in Norway. It's essentially a giant, grand reception hall (used today for banquets) under a ceiling that feels like an upturned Viking boat. While recently rebuilt, the ceiling's design is modeled after grand wooden roofs of that era (tel. 55 31 60 67).
Bergen's Hanseatic Museum
The Hanseatic Museum offers a time-tunnel experience back to Bryggen's glory days. It's located in an atmospheric old merchant house furnished with dried fish, antique ropes, an old oxtail (used for wringing spilled cod-liver oil back into the bucket), sagging steps, and cupboard beds from the early 1700s (tel. 55 54 46 96, www.museumvest.no).
Edvard Grieg's Home, Troldhaugen
Norway's greatest composer spent his last 22 summers here near Bergen, soaking up inspirational fjord beauty and composing many of his greatest works. The house and adjacent museum are full of memories, including his Steinway. The walls are festooned with photos of the musical and literary superstars of his generation (tel. 55 92 29 92, www.troldhaugen.com).
[1] Hi, I'm Rick Steves back with more of the best of Europe. This time we're sailing the fjords into some stunning scenery — venturing to the far west of Norway. Thanks for joining us. [or if we use the Bergen safety version: This time we're traveling in northern Europe where the mountains meet the sea — it's the best of Western Norway. Thanks for joining us.]
[2 open]
[3] Rugged is putting it mildly when it comes to 80 percent of Norway. Historically, it was a challenge to live here. That's why Vikings ventured south and that's why so many people chose to leave and settle in America. But today, if you explore the west of Norway — with its majestic mountains and fjords — you'll find plenty of reason not to leave...but to visit.
[4] We start in what's called Giant's Country — Jotunheimen. High in the mountains, we'll hike on Europe's biggest glacier, then descend into fjord beauty. We'll take scenic cruises, see how medieval peasants lived...and where they worshipped, before enjoying Norway's historic capital Bergen, Hanseatic heritage, a little high Norwegian culture, and rugged love of life.
[5 map] Norway is long and skinny. Oslo is as far from Rome as it is from Norway's northern tip. We'll zero in on the scenic west — along the biggest of the fjords, Sognefjord, with stops in Jotunheimem, the Jostedal Glacier, Solvorn, Balestrand, Flam, and Bergen.
[6] This is Jotunheim or home of the giants — a high plateau that feels like the top of the world. These are northern Europe's highest mountains. They're steeped in Norse legends and folk lore.
[7] This is the land of Thor and Odin whose spirits still inhabit the misty peaks.
[8] For centuries villagers trekked across this pass to reach the coast. It was an arduous journey. But, today crossing it's a pleasure. At 4,600 feet, the Sognefjell road is Norway's highest pass. At this latitude, even these modest altitudes take us high above the tree line with snow through the summer.
[9] Norway's lunar-like mountain-scapes and deep fjords were shaped by glaciers that covered most of the Continent 10,000 years ago. Europe's biggest surviving glacier, Jostedal is still hard at work. It covers 180 square miles and — though shrinking — is still mighty.
[10] Of the many tongues of the glacier, this one — called Nigardsbreen — offers the best visit. The valley comes with a quintessential glacier view. The approach includes a cruise across the glacial lake. The scale is enormous and blue cliffs of ancient ice dwarf awestruck visitors. Park guides lash on crampons and rope up adventurous travelers in preparation for an icy hike.
[11] While there are more demanding Nigardsbreen routes, I'm joining a family hike — just an hour, but offering a unforgettable experience and bringing you face to face with the power and majesty of nature.
[12] While tentative at first, hikers soon gain confidence in their crampons as they climb high onto the glacier.
[13] 75 years ago, this glacier stretched all the way to the parking lot. Guides teach a respect for nature and any visit heightens one's awareness of the impact of climate change.
[15] Rivers of ice like this carved huge valleys creating the defining feature of Norway's landscape — fjords.
[16] Those glaciers — as much as a mile thick — spent eons carving up western Norway as they worked their way to the sea. Slowly, they gouged u-shaped valleys that later filled with water. The distance from seabed to mountaintop around here is as much as 9000 feet — nearly two vertical miles. Dramatic waterfalls continue to cut into the mountains.
[17] This viewpoint makes sure car hikers get out and appreciate the view. Sognefjord is Norway's biggest and that's the one we're exploring. Of its many arms, the the most scenic is called Nærøyfjord.
[18] Rain or shine, traditional ferries offer a relaxing yet thrilling fjord experience. These ferries, while popular with tourists, are the lifeline of many fjord-side communities. Some remote farms are connected to the outside world only by ferry. Mail is dropped and visitors come and go by request.
[19] And the visual highlight of this ride, Nærøyfjord is ten miles long and breath-takingly narrow — as little as 800 feet wide. [go back to towering black wall]
[20] For an exhilarating alternative, we're suiting up for a much speedier tour with the Fjord Safari company.
[21] Survival suits keep everyone cozy and comfortable at thrillingly high speeds. Our guide, Rune, knows all the interesting stops.
[22 use guide's sound bites or, if necessary, Rick can write VO to some or all: Farm house with tractor, Visit to water fall, Ladder farm, finish with high rock wall – milk this...so powerful]
[23] This western region is important to the people of Norway. After four centuries of Danish rule, the soul of the country was nearly lost. With independence and a constitution in the early 1800s, there was a national resurgence and people in the cities celebrated their Norwegian-ness by coming here to fjord country.
[24] Along with those first tourists came artists. Romantic painters and writers were inspired by the mountains plunging into the fjords and the dramatic light. Paintings romanticized both the nature and the traditional folk life it fostered.
[25] For a present day taste of this romanticism, I like the mellow town of Solvorn with its dramatic fjord-side setting. This sleepy village, with colorful boathouses lining its waterfront, seems contentedly trapped in the past.
[26] Solvorn's charming Walaker Hotel harkens back to the early days of tourism. Actually a former inn and coach station, it's been in the family since 1690. And nine generations later, Ole Henrik keeps the tradition alive. A charming ambiance pervades the place. Relaxing before dinner, guests feel right at home in the salon.
[27] Dinner, served in this genteel elegance, caps a beautiful day. The menu is modern Norwegian. It's based on local ingredients — many of them pulled right out of the fjord. We're starting with scallops from just off shore. On a summer evening the twilight lingers causing people to do the same. Our main course is arctic char from the north of Norway. To enjoy the full effect of this fjord-side setting, I take my coffee and dessert out to the porch. The berries, picked right out of their garden, go perfectly with the view. [fade to black]
[28] The most scenic train ride in all of northern Europe connects visitors from Oslo and Bergen to all the wonder by climbing over the mountainous spine of Norway.
[29] This line, an engineering marvel when completed in 1909, was important because it laced together the nation. Today tourists follow that same route with a series of efficient connections enjoying a quick and easy dose of Norway's best scenery.
[30] Along with a scenic boat ride up Narrow fjord, a highlight is this little train that takes travelers from the main line in the mountains steeply down to the fjords. This popular day trip is nicknamed "Norway in a Nutshell."
[31] Tourists savor every scenic moment. Scenes glide by like a movie. The train stops at a misty waterfall. The appearance of mythic Nordic water maidens adds to the scene. Descending into the fertile valley, farms appear. Finally, the train hits the fjord, where passengers catch a ferry for the next leg of Norway in a Nutshell.
[32] Travelers with their own wheels can dig deeper into fjord country — just like those glaciers did in the last Ice Age. For me, driving in Norway can be treacherous — not because of the speed or traffic — but because of the scenery...it's simply hard to keep your eyes on the road. In this rugged terrain, tunnels and fjord crossings provide valuable shortcuts. Little car ferries make strategic crossings, allowing even the driver to fully enjoy the views.
[33] And tunnels — this one's the world's longest for cars, at 15 miles — save lots of time. To help drivers stay awake, there are rest chambers with colored lights mid-tunnel. Norwegians are making massive infrastructure investments to lace their country together.
[34] While breath-taking scenery is everywhere you look, the history is harder to see. For most of its past, Norway was extremely humble. While wealthier parts of Europe were building grand churches and castles of stone, most of Norway's architecture was made of wood. Fires were almost routine, and little survives from centuries past.
[35] This is the wet and wild homeland of the Vikings — whose culture lasted about three centuries from roughly 800 to 1100. Setting sail from here, in their tough boats, they settled Iceland, Greenland, even made it to America. And Viking raiders terrorized much of Europe for generations.
[36] This mound marks the grave of one of those Viking rulers. Like the Egyptians, the Vikings believed in a life after death. And they believed you could take it with you. That's why when graves are excavated, archeologists find everything from jewelry and weapons to cooking pots and even boats.
[37] The end of the Viking age with its pagan Norse gods is marked by the coming of Christianity to Norway in the 12th century. Those medieval Norwegians, now tamed, took their boat-buildings skills and rather then sleek ships to raid in, they built fine wooden churches to pray in.
[38] These traditional Norwegian churches are called stave churches. While there were over a thousand such churches in Norway in the 1300s, today, only a couple dozen survive. The Borgund Stave Church is one of the best.
[39] Stave churches were supported by pine poles — or "staves" — and slathered with a protective coat of black tar. Wood was plentiful and cheap. While the basic design reflects the simple technology of the age, more elaborate examples like this one stand as proud testaments to the culture.
[40] Remarkable carvings survive — evoking the pagan roots of these early Norwegian Christians. Stylized dragons — reminiscent of those that once adorned Viking ships — probably functioned like gargoyles — to keep evil spirits at bay.
[41] This building has changed little since it was built in 1180. Interiors were stark and dark with tiny windows and simple X-shaped crosses of St. Andrew. The architecture guides your gaze upwards, toward heaven. The people who filled these churches often walked hours to worship.
[42] Many hiked from tiny hamlets formed by several farms joining together. Otternes is one such farm village perched high above a fjord.
[43] Today, Otternes welcomes visitors with a rare look at Norway of old. It's an evocative huddle of 27 weathered farm buildings — many of which date to the 1700s. The farmstead's population dwindled a century ago, when — like so many Norwegians — its residents emigrated to America in hopes of a better life. Still, a handful of farmers remained, eking out a living here until just a generation ago.
[44] Laila xxx works hard to make the story of Otternes a living history.
[45 bites from Laila responding to questions from Rick: Info on immigration, goats, etc. What was population at its peak? Fifty people. This was the main road from Flam to Aurland. There was no road along the fjord until 1916. So, explain the organization. It was a community of four family farms. The environment was tough for survival. They worked together to harvest the land from the fjord to the mountain. This key was the woman's power. Food was money. Grass and butter were gold. If you wanted to buy something in town...bring butter. So this was an active farm until the last generation. Yes. A man named Edglart lived here until 1981. His dying wish: that his home should remain the same. And it has. And this stick was to stir the porridge. Let's eat.]
[46] To appropriately cap our visit, Laila has prepared us a traditional fjord country meal. A hearty porridge called Romegrot, local dried meat, and crispy flat bread. [sound up as we eat?]
[47] Today's action is at sea level. Ferries are a lifeline of the local economy — helping both locals go about their lives and visitors efficiently explore these fjords. Just across Sognefjord lies Balestrand.
[48] Little Balestrand is dwarfed by the mountainous scenery. With its functional harbor front and inviting marina, it serves as a springboard for local adventures. It flourished in the 19th century, as a resort when Romantic "Grand Tour" visitors came to enjoy its dramatic setting.
[49] As a matter of fact, these simple steps were built for the German Emperor. Back before WWI brought the Romantic age to a halt, Germany's Kaiser Wilhelm spent five summers communing with nature right here.
[50] Those glory days of early tourism still echo in the venerable Kvikne's Hotel, which remains the grande dame of Balestrand.
[51] In its fine old dining room, the Kvikne's offers a classic Norwegian smorgasbord.
[52] For locals, this all-you-can-eat extravaganza is traditionally a feast enjoyed on holidays. But for travelers it's an any-day-of-the-week opportunity to over-indulge in Norwegian cuisine. Pace yourself with small plates through many courses. Begin with an enticing variety of seafood — mackerel, eel, smoked salmon, pickled herring and more. And the selection ranges from rutabagas to reindeer. It all culminates with a rich spread of local cheeses and berries.
[53] Guests enjoy their coffee in the same rustic elegance that kept those first aristocratic visitors coming back. Paintings by artists inspired by this very fjord add to the old world ambiance.
[54 Fast catamaran rocketing into fjord horizon] While the beauty of these fjords has changed little in the last century, today getting around is a different story. From the heart of fjord country, the fast boat has us in the biggest city in the West of Norway in just a few hours.
[55] Bergen is Norway's second city after Oslo. Situated just one sheltering island from the open sea, it's long provided ships a safe port of call. It's a busy working port. It's popular with cruise ships and an essential refuge when heavy winds drive in the boats that serve the North Sea oil rigs. Much of Norway's current affluence is fueled by the oil it drills just off shore.
[56] Visitors enjoy charming cobbled streets which surround the harbor and climb the encircling hills. Bergen's popular funicular rises high above the city offering commanding views. Surveying the surrounding islands and fjords, it's clear why this city is known as the Gateway to Fjord Country.
[57] Back down at the harbor, the bustling fish market has become a food circus of eateries selling fishy treats to tourists. Eager merchants provide tasty samples and will happily assemble a plate to order.
[58] This fine harbor has a long history. Seven hundred years ago, local kings established Bergen as Norway's first capital. The 13th-century Håkon's Hall was part of the royal residence. In a city built of wood, stone buildings represented power. As in many Norwegian sights, the included tour here brings meaning to an otherwise hard to appreciate attraction.
[59 bite from guide in the big hall — the biggest secular stone building in Scandinavia, roof is modern but built the same way the original would have been]
[60] The adjacent tower dates back to the same period. Its simple design favored security over comfort. It was basically four stout rooms stacked atop each other. This was the chapel.
[61] From the roof we enjoy a royal view. [soundbite: This was for centuries the tallest building in Bergen. The king was attempting to assert royal power, creating a centralized power and in a sense giving birth to the nation and notion of Norway.]
[62] Colorful wooden warehouses mark Bergen's touristy historic quarter. Since the 1300s, this was its old German trading center — called Bryggen, or "The Wharf." Along with being home of Norway's king, Bergen was a member of the mighty Hanseatic League and therefore a trading power.
[63] The Hanseatic League was an alliance of cities in Northern Europe that stretched from London to Russia. They worked together for freer, safer, and more profitable trade in an age before modern states could provide a reliable environment for business. German merchants basically ran Bergen's trade for 400 years. In the 1500s, Bergen was essentially a Germanic city — a community of 2,000 workaholic merchants — surrounded, and supported by about 5,000 Norwegians.
[64] The Hanseatic Museum stands on the edge of the wharf. With creaky wooden interiors and maritime hardware, it helps you envision the economy that made Bergen.
[65] It was all about this fish. Cod — a form of protein that could be dried, preserved, and shipped anywhere. Bergen was the point where cod from the north met traders from the rest of Europe. The Norwegians were the good fishermen. The Germans were the good merchants. They needed each other and Bergen is where they met.
[66] Rooms upstairs — with hundred year old cod hanging from the ceilings — take you back to the 1700s. It was an all male society with strict rules and a focus on business. Because of the ever-present danger of fire, it was generally dark and cold. People slept cozy-as-they-could in cramped cupboard beds. While there was hardly room for company, this bunk came with a pinup girl.
[67] Bryggen's wooden core is made of long rows of planky warehouses leaning haphazardly across narrow alleys. It's burned down and been rebuilt several times and it's now touristy and filled with shops and galleries. Still, strolling here, you can appreciate the heritage.
[68] For a modern contrast to all this history, head for the urban heart of Bergen — which has a thriving personality all its own. The main square, originally created as a fire break in this fire-plagued city, is lined by big department stores. And locals come to life when the sun peaks through, here in Norway's rainiest city.
[69] A park-like esplanade leads to the national theater. Fountains celebrating cultural icons provide popular meeting places. In the late 19th century, Norway's greatest artists and musicians called Bergen home. This fountain is dedicated to the beloved violinist, Olle Bull.
[70] And just outside of town, is Troldhaugen, the home of Norway's greatest composer, Edvard Grieg.
[71] Touring his home takes you back to the Romantic age when Grieg was a major player among European composers. Guides explain how Greig and his wife entertained cultural big shots who traveled from all corners to visit this Norwegian musical genius.
[72] And when the composer wanted to work, he had his escape — a peaceful cabin complete with fjord-side inspiration. Composing at the turn of the 20th century, Grieg fused simple Norwegian folk tunes with the flamboyance of Europe's Romantic style.
[73] Today, in the adjacent concert hall, visitors gather to enjoy performances by local musicians. With a setting like this, Grieg fans become tuned into nature and nature lovers become tuned in to Grieg.
[74 piano performance]
[75] And Grieg's music captures that rich and poignant mix of nature and culture that is so uniquely Norwegian. [beauty sequence]
[76] I hope you've enjoyed our journey through western Norway. In this rugged corner of Europe, the challenges presented by nature have met the tough and creative spirit of the Norwegian people. The result: a fascinating land well worth exploring. Thanks for joining us. I'm Rick Steves. Until next time...keep on travelin'.


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PGECET Allotment Download 2013 | PGECET Allotment Orders
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The PGECET convener asked candidates to download their allotment letters from their website – http://pgecet.apsche.ac.in and asked them to report at the colleges on or before August 28. Candidates are required to pay the tuition fees mentioned in the challan form at any branch of Andhra Bank before reporting at the colleges.
He also instructed the managements of colleges to upload the data of candidates who are reporting at their respective colleges in the PGECET website – http://pgecetcolleges.apsche.ac.in to enable them to issue the notification of second phase with details of vacancies.
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subject to verification and Eligibility as per the orders of Government vide Memo No:6905-C/SW.Edn. 2/2010-
2,Dated:12/08/2011 of Social Welfare(EDN-2) Department.
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Andrew Stanton, a Yellowstone National Park Examiner, has written some informative online articles concerning bear safety. He's gathered his information from a number of websites and publications. He writes, "It is not my intention to be alarmist, but to give park visitors tips on avoiding confrontations with wildlife."
Stanton has actually published two articles, the first containing a few general guidelines about hiking and camping in the wilderness, specifically regarding wildlife. Here's a preview of some of the tips you'll find in his first article:
- Do not feed any wildlife.
- Do not hike alone in the back country.
- Do not store food in or near your tent.
- Carry bear spray in the back country.
Finally, he cautions to check with officials for the latest information on wildlife activity. In his second article, Stanton offers advice more specifically targeted toward storing food in order to prevent attracting bears. For example, if you're in back country, he recommends storing any food or cooking equipment off the ground, high out of reach. If you're using a car site, keeping all potential items for attracting wildlife in your car should do the trick.
Additionally, Stanton reminds us of the park regulation that states, "In all areas, food, garbage, and equipment used to cook or store food, when not in use or attended, must be sealed in a vehicle or camping unit made of solid, non-pliable material or suspended at least 10 feet above the ground and 4 feet horizontally from a post, tree trunk, or other object."
In addition to wildlife safety, make sure you're packing essential equipment like first aid kits, LED flashlights or lanterns, and a reliable knife or multi-tool. Bears and wildlife aren't the only dangers the outdoors pose.
[photo: Padraic]
Tags: bear safety, Camping, Hiking, wildlife safety


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Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao can now lay claim to another title.
Pacquiao, whose recent victory against former WBC super featherweight king Juan Manuel Marquez of Mexico has catapulted him into the record books only a handful of boxers had achieved, has added another feather to his cap when he was conferred yesterday the rank of 'Datu' by the B'laan Tribe, the dominant indigenous group in Sarangani province, in southern Mindanao.
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Paying $1.1 million is a mere pittance compared to all the benefits Congel has received from government in support of the mall. The legal issues are complex and litigation would be costly to the City which is facing huge deficits. Perhaps what is needed is a coalition of local attorneys willing to work pro bono on behalf of Syracuse to right wrongs and untangle the mess created by Pyramid and local politicos or a class action suit on behalf of Syracuse taxpayers. Are there lawyers out there willing to join? This could be fun!
Good analysis Marat. This will be a nasty Congressional race with money from respective parties flowing to fund negative campaigning given that it will be close. The poor citizens of CNY will once again have to endure the onslaught of the zany rhetoric that undermines our intelligence and capability of participating in the political process. In terms of contemporary political leadership, the cream doesn't rise to the top. The electorate is left to vote on the least of the evils, not the best of the best.
The analogy Angonito uses is an observation of one who dwells in an ivory tower, undoubtedly professorial, pontificating about all that is wrong with the world in the interest of social justice. It fails to recognize those like Danny Wegman who believe that "good will is good business" and vice versa. She picked a poor case for her argument. From the perspective of the man on the street, her argument that "Republicans accept the business model and not the Constitution' s model" is pure hogwash.
This is one of the most inane letters I've ever read. I lived on the Northside for ten years and was a regular customer of the Wegman's store on Pond St. Rosemary Agonito does not know what she's talking about. Did she ever shop there or live in the area?
Wegman's was always a good neighbor in a very diverse neighborhood. The store hired people from the neighborhood, especially teens . Some of these young people lived in very adverse situations and the store would provide them with a mentor and scholarships to attend college. Once in college, these students could return to Wegman's for summer employment. It was great to watch these kids flourish.
The store faced many challenges. Some of the employees and customers would steal from Wegman's. Costs for shrinkage and loss were probably high in that establishment. Many customers received WIC and Foodstamp benefits. The store helped these people by keeping costs down for grocery staples. Wegman's pricing gave those on a limited or fixed income more value for their food dollar.
Other grocery stores left the area but Wegman's stayed. Wegman's was very competitive with Peter's and P&C stores and may have added to their demise but these grocers were facing the same problems and could not operate at a profit. "Profit" is not a bad word Ms. Agonito. Successful businesses create sustainable jobs, not Washington.
There is nothing "political" about Wegman's decision to pull out. In fact too much government regulation has forced many entrepreneurs out of business or has impeded the growth of business. I certainly would not base my vote on Wegman's decision to close the Pond St. store.
The residents of the Northside will miss Wegman's and the quality and value of goods they purchased there. Wegman's has arranged for a shuttle to take residents if Vinette Towers to it James St. store. Once again proving it's good will in the community.
The Wegman family has a philosophy of sharing their success with others. Danny Wegman is no Bob Congel. Prehaps Ms. Agonito should focus on addressing the public/private partnership of the Carousel Mall if she wants to talk about politics and its influence on business. Congel's hiring and firing 60 locals before they could find other work or qualify for unemployment benefits as a publicity stunt was cruel and unethical. Now that's a topic to ponder.
Yes Senator DeFrancisco, you were astute in your assessment of the deal and have been maligned by those who wanted the best for Central New York. What a "CONundrum" for this community. Reminds me of the children's tale "Stone Soup" where 3 enterprising individuals "make something out of nothing" by getting local people to donate items to "make the best soup ever tasted".
Congel was pitching ideas and seeking pubic support to minimize his risk. Where did he cross the line? Did the community gain something? Yes. Did the community lose something? Yes. Do the gains outweigh the loses? That remains to be seen.
Thank you for your letter to the editor.
Are we talking about a "Pyramid Scheme"? See Aiken's comments:
Destiny USA executive David Aitken, a spokesman for Congel, said the developer is reinvesting the state's money back into the project.
"Destiny USA will generate far more in the form of new jobs, new taxes and new government revenues that the state will get their investment back many times over," he said.
I'd like to see the numbers!
Marc Malfitano has confirmed what many of us observed over the years, that the Carousel Mall from it's inception has been a public-private partnership. While most Central New Yorkers yearn for economic development to replace industries that have exited our region, the price paid to Mr. Congel has been too high. He and his cronies have run rings around our local politicians and lined their own pockets, Malfitano included. In the process, those who attempted to speak out and demand accountability were maligned and discredited.
Ultimately, the Carousel Mall may become a "white elephant" that taxpayers will have to bear if tenants leave and retail sales dip. It may suffer the same fate as the Fayetteville Mall but the transition to another use or management firm, will not be as easy due the complexities of it's financing and obligations to public programs. It is not a bright spot in the community, it is an eyesore.
I don't think Bishop Cunningham etal are facing martyrdom over doctrine like St. Thomas More or St. John Fisher. Barack Obama is not Henry VIII. RE: Church and State...to paraphrase Jesus "Render onto Caesar that which is Caesar's. Render onto God that which is God's." Is this a debate that Christ would take on?
The Catholic Conundrum...spirituality or secularism?
Why is it so hard for the modern Church to re-focus it's mission around Christ's teachings? As a Catholic, I am dismayed at the leadership of our bishops. Christ's teachings remain relevant in a secular society yet the bishops fail to act as He would. Hypocrisy has been their downfall.
The Catholic Church has been at the forefront of social justice for centuries providing care for the poor and disenfranchised, building hospitals and schools, advocating for equality among races and embracing the lives of individuals from birth until death.
In the political arena, Bishop Cunningham is misleading his flock. Like Bishop Cunningham, I believe that Church and State should be separated. So why is he preaching from the pulpit about government matters? If he is concerned about the government forcing Catholic agencies to pay for abortion he should say so. "Thou Shall Not Kill" is a commandment. Addressing abortion from the pulpit is appropriate as is speaking to the problems of child sexual abuse, discrimination or hunger.
But the issue of contraception is one that resonates with Catholics because the majority of us have used birth control. There is no commandment that I know of that teaches birth control is a sin. If there was, I would have heard about it from the Sisters and priests who taught in my Catholic School.
The Catholic Conundrum...spirituality vs. secularism.
Why is it so hard for the modern Church to re-focus it's mission around Christ's teachings? . As a Catholic, I am dismayed at the leadership of our bishops. Christ's teachings remain relevant in a secular society yet the bishops fail to act as He would. Hypocrisy has been their down fall.
The Catholic Church has been at the forefront of social justice for centuries providing care for the poor and disenfranchised, building hospitals and schools, advocating for equality among races and embracing the lives of individuals from birth until death.
In the political arena, Bishop Cunningham is misleading his flock. Like Bishop Cunningham, I believe that Church and State should be separated. So why is he preaching from the pulpit about government matters? If he is concerned about the government forcing Catholic agencies to pay for abortion he should say so. "Thou Shall Not Kill" is a commandment. Addressing abortion from the pulpit is appropriate as is speaking to the problems of child sexual abuse, discrimination or hunger.
But the issue of contraception is one that resonates with Catholics because the majority of us have used birth control. There is no commandment that I know of that teaches birth control is a sin. If there was, I would have heard about it from the Sisters and priests who taught in my Catholic School.
Destiny the dream...Time to wake up! From the very beginning the development of the Carousel Center had us dreaming of what Syracuse could be. More jobs; a large commercial center; housing; a restored lakefront; visitors from all over New York, the US and Canada and a vital economy.
The scenario reminds me of the children's story "The Emperor's New Clothes". Syracuse is the Emperor, desiring to be regal who is aprroached by a man who calls himself a 'tailor' (Mr. Congel) and markets himself to the Emperor promising to make 'an outfit of gold'(the Carousel Mall). The tailor was treated kindly by the Emperor who addressed his every whim. He was given money to purchase expensive fabrics and threads of gold. When the outfit was finished the Emperor was told by the tailor that "it is so beautiful that it blinds all that see it". The Emperor believed the tailor and refuted his own judgment. He put on what he thinks are clothes and parades before his subjects. No one says a word until a young child cries out "That man has nothing on!"
So now Syracuse has a mall that can't be filled with retailers, a deficit that needs to be addressed and Mr. Congel is lining his pockets and averted taxes. Last time I checked his net worth is between $700-800 million. If I had that kind of wealth age 77, I'd have the best time giving away to where it could do the most good. I'd start with helping children in the Syracuse City Schools, restoring downtown and using my experience to assist small businesses. But that's my dream.
Health care policy has evolved from the ridiculous to the completely absurd. Everytime I visit my doctor or dentist, my chart is littered with so many HIPAA forms that it's a wonder that practitioners can clearly review a patient's medical history. Imagine the cost of the bureaucarcy that implements those regulations. Millions for forms.
Today's PS article compiled by Weiner and Reide helped to shed some light on the complexity of government regulation of health care. Those in the medical field have a tough time keeping up with all of the regulations, which are often interpreted by their professional associations. It is even more difficult for patients who are paying high out of pocket costs for coverage, medications and services.
After reading about the inconsistencies in Rep. Beurkle's comments and votes, it occured to me that she may be having some problems with her staff who read these bills and provide a synopsis to the elected official or she may be following the party line without doing due diligence.
Can a panel appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate find a cure for an ailing health care system of payors, providers and patients? Prehaps, if party politics are kept out of the process. But what about the competing interests of insurers, doctors, facilities and patients? Maybe they could start with finding some cost savings and rationale in HIPAA. Once having reached agreement they could move on to the bigger issues in health care reform.
McClurg worked on my home built prior to 1978 and did testing for lead paint. This is a local remodeling firm with 30 plus years of experience whose employees are certified in lead paint abatement. I was a volunteer. All volunteers were carefully screened and supervised for this project by licensed and insured contractors. The CNY Home Builders and Remodelers Assn. members assisted with the planning and oversight. It was a great experience!
This is why we love Central New York! Neighbors help neighbors. The sense of community is unsurpassed. We also read about the Masterpole project lead by St. Joseph's Hospital and LeMoyne College. I hope we can learn from these efforts to help those who "fall in between the cracks" when they need a helping hand or a few hundred helping hands.
Good luck Dion. Thank you for your passionate play for SU! You are a gifted athlete and will be missed. You made it through the year with great stats and without injury. Hope that you use your talent to help your Mom and family. Play with heart wherever you go kid!
What the media didn't report. The amount of money SJK provided in grants to PP was $650,000 which PP was able to raise in one day after scaring people about access to breast cancer screening. PP advocates stated that millions of poor women would be affected. The truth is the funds provided 170,000 screenings annually. Personally, I think SJK's executive director and Kate Flannery should be fired for steering the organization away from its primary mission by engaging in the polarizing national debate about abortion rights. The poor judgement of these individuals has hurt SJK's ability to raise money for research and services.
Defamation? SU don't cave under pressure. Take this to court. Don't settle. Lori Fine was not a agent for her husband nor was she an employee of SU. If the allegations are true, these are actions of consenting adults, though totally tawdry. Don't set a precedent for future extortion.
Now this is funny!
Love Hart Seely's coverage of news stories but was this article intended to compete with Tom Seeley's launch of "Upstate" the Syracuse based "sitcom?"? The article was mean-spirited and not particularly funny. Neither was "Upstate"-one of the worst offerings I've ever seen on television. Why ridicule Carol Baldwin who has so much for the community? Shame on you Hart, for not having a heart for Syracuse.
Keep it in the can. Awful show, so depressing for a "sit-com?". Terrible writing, directing and a waste of acting talent. They stole the "pop-in" neighbor raiding the refrigerator gimmick from Seinfeld. No storyline or characters anyone could relate to. There is a lot of material in Syracuse that could be very funny like a group of guys crazy about SU sports, college students at Newhouse seeking fame, the wait staff at Dinosaur Barbeque and all the snow we get i.e. Chevy Chase's "Snow Day". Back to the drawing board on this one. Siobhan Fallon was wasted, was the anger her character projected inspired by the script? Hated the way our community was portrayed, if life here was that bad there would be a mass exodus!