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Playtime~Your favorite April Fools Joke
I love life....filled with giggles, and JOY.
I thought it would be fun to share some April Fools Jokes we have had played on us, or we have played on others. We might get an idea for today to play with, and share moments of silliness.
For myself...it was one I played on my daughter when she was 10 years old. I advised her that I had made an eye appointment, and would pick her up from school, instead of taking the bus home. I drove her to the local ice cream parlor. She replied-Mom-this isn't the eye doctors office. I responded with...can you see the menu on the wall? She said...Yes. I then told her...well then, your eyesight is perfect. Order an ice cream and let's celebrate!


text: The Cornerstone Credit Union Foundation hosted a Pilot Biz Kid$ Entrepreneur Contest and awarded Hamshire-Fannett Middle School as the winner for their "Pencil Pouch" project. Cornerstone Credit Union Foundation received a Biz Kid$ Financial Education Grant from the National Credit Union Foundation (the Foundation) to help fund this initiative. "We were so happy to fund Cornerstone Credit Union Foundation's pilot project," said Danielle Brown, Director of Development & Donor Relations for the Foundation. "Their Entrepreneur Contest is...Click to Continue Reading

subset: commoncrawl


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WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans seized control of the Senate and strengthened their hold on the House in a wave of Election Day victories Tuesday that served as a repudiation of President Barack Obama's second-term policies and put a series of Democratic-leaning states — including Obama's home, Illinois — under control of new Republican governors.Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell defeated Democrat Alison Lundergan Grimes in Kentucky, putting him in position to become the new Senate majority leader and confront Obama over his signature health care law.
SAVANNAH, Ga. (AP) — Democratic Rep. John Barrow is trailing a Republican challenger in an eastern Georgia congressional district drawn to favor the GOP.Early election returns Tuesday showed Republican Rick Allen ahead of Barrow with roughly half the vote counted. Barrow is seeking a sixth term in the 12th District, which had the only truly competitive U.S. House race in Georgia this year.
The city of Danielsville passed a referendum Tuesday night providing for the sale of alcohol by the drink at restaurants and for the Sunday sales of beer and wine at convenience stores, a spokeswoman for the city said.
The alcohol referendum was separated into three questions and all three received approval.
Residents cast a vote of 41 to 32 to allow the sale of distilled spirits, beer and wine for consumption only on the premises of licensed establishments.
ATLANTA (AP) — State and national civil rights groups say issues some voters faced when they went to the polls Tuesday reinforced their skepticism toward Georgia elections officials and voter registration efforts.Diamond Walton, an 18-year-old college student in Columbus, said she called the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights and the New Georgia Project after being told to cast a provisional ballot because she wasn't on a list of eligible voters. Walton said she presented her registration confirmation and officials found her name on an alternate registration list.
ATLANTA (AP) — Voters in Georgia appeared troubled by the economy and considered how their ballots might affect control of the U.S. Senate as they decided a close race between Republican David Perdue and Democrat Michelle Nunn. Those were some of the preliminary findings from exit polling conducted for The Associated Press and television networks:
ATLANTA (AP) — Officials in the Georgia Secretary of State's office say problems with a voter information website were resolved within roughly three hours.Jared Thomas, spokesman for Secretary of State Brian Kemp, said a glitch in the state's voter information website Tuesday morning led some voters to an error message. The website contains information on voters' assigned polling places and more.
Simple complications like parking a car can become a burden when trying to cast a ballot.
With an early morning turnout heavy on people headed for work and parents taking kids to school, voters who cast ballots at Gaines Elementary School struggle with parking every election.
"Parking is always an issue. We've already had two complaints and it's only 8 o'clock," said Cory DeLamater, poll manager for 1B and 8A precincts that were recently combined.
ATLANTA ‑ Gov. Nathan Deal's early lead over Democratic challenger Jason Carter and Libertarian Andrew Hunt in election returns Tuesday held steady hours later.
With two-thirds of the precincts reporting statewide, Deal had 57 percent, Carter 40, and Hunt 2. The rest of the GOP statewide candidates held similar leads, apparently avoiding runoffs for any of them.
ATLANTA | David Perdue captured a majority to win Georgia's Senate seat Tuesday, keeping it in Republican hands and helping his party gain control of the U.S. Senate.
"I think Georgia's made it loud and clear tonight that we want to stop the failed policies of (President) Barack Obama and (Senate Democratic Leader) Harry Reid," Perdue said on Tuesday.
Athens, GA • Athens Banner-Herald ©2015. All Rights Reserved.


text:
Page 1
Maternal Regulation of Embryonic Growth: The Role of
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide*
Section on Developmental and Molecular Pharmacology (C.Y.S., S.J.L., G.G., D.T.A., R.A., D.E.B.,
J.M.H.), Laboratory of Developmental Neurobiology, National Institute of Child Health and Human
Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892; and Division of Neonatology
(S.K.M.), Children's National Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, George Washington
University, Washington, D.C. 20010
Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is an important growth regu-
lator of the embryonic day (E)9–E11 mouse. In comparably aged rat
embryos, VIP messenger RNA (mRNA) is not detectable; however,
peak concentrations of VIP in maternal rat serum indicate a nonem-
bryonic source. In the current study, mouse maternal and embryonic
mRNA in E6–E7 conceptuses, by E8 (when extraembryonic tissues
could be separated from the embryo), VIP mRNA was detected only
in the decidua/trophoblast. Decidual/trophoblastic VIP mRNA de-
creased until E10, after which it was not detectable. VIP mRNA was
not apparent in the embryo until E11–E12. At E9, VIP immunore-
which were also immunoreactive for T cell markers. VIP binding sites
were dense in the decidua/trophoblast at E6, but gradually decreased
until E10, after which they were not apparent. VIP binding sites were
of VIP binding sites and mRNA in the decidua/trophoblast correlate
with the critical period of VIP growth regulation, when VIP mRNA is
absent in the embryo. These findings suggest that maternal lympho-
cytes are the source of VIP's regulating early postimplantation em-
bryonic growth. (Endocrinology 140: 917–924, 1999)
during the early postimplantation period, embryonic days
(E)9–E11 in the mouse. VIP treatment of whole mouse em-
bryo cultures at E9.5 significantly augmented embryonic
growth and development. A 4-h treatment with VIP resulted
in significant increases in somite number, DNA, protein, and
cross-sectional area (1). In addition, treatment of pregnant
mice with a VIP antagonist from E9.5–E11.5 produced
growth restriction and microcephaly in the pups. However,
treatment with the VIP antagonist after E11.5 did not result
ulation of growth is limited to a specific time period post
implantation (2). Critical developmental events occur at this
time of embryogenesis, including neural tube closure, orga-
nogenesis, and the conversion from yolk sac to placental
nutrition. In the embryo, VIP seems to act through binding
sites that are primarily, if not exclusively, restricted to the
floor plate and adjacent neuroepithelium of the developing
nervous system (3, 4). VIP treatment down-regulated em-
HE NEUROTROPHIC vasoactive intestinal peptide
(VIP) is an important regulator of embryonic growth
bryonic VIP binding sites of cultured embryos (1), and treat-
ment with a VIP antagonist up-regulated embryonic binding
sites (2).
During this critical time period post implantation, there is
a maternal response to the developing embryo, resulting in
an infiltration of lymphocytes into the decidua (5). The de-
cidual cellular milieu at this time period is mixed and in-
cludes lymphocytes, natural killer cells, and macrophages
(6). However, one specific subtype of lymphocyte, with a ??
pared with circulating levels (7). These ?? lymphocytes are
thought to have a specific role in the maternal-fetal interac-
tion (7). Lymphocytes are known to express VIP messenger
RNA (mRNA) (8) and have VIP receptors (9, 10).
The purpose of the current study was to characterize VIP
mRNA, VIP peptide, and VIP binding sites in E6–E12 mouse
embryos and extraembryonic tissues, identifying potential
sources of VIP for growth regulation at this critical time.
Materials and Methods
Gestational days
Because VIP is an important regulator of embryonic growth between
E9–E11 of the mouse, we studied VIP mRNA, maternal plasma VIP, and
VIP binding sites between days E6–E12. Mice at E9 and E17 were used
to evaluate maternal organ and embryonic VIP levels. E17 was chosen
as a time point beyond the known effects of VIP on embryonic growth.
NIH-Swiss female mice (Harlan Sprague Dawley, Inc., Indianapolis,
available at all times. The mice received humane animal care in com-
Received August 7, 1998.
Address all correspondence and requests for reprints to: J. M. Hill,
Ph.D., Section on Developmental and Molecular Pharmacology, Labo-
ratory of Developmental Neurobiology, National Institute of Child
Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Build-
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com.
* The content of this publication does not necessarily reflect the views
or policies of the Department of Health and Human Services, nor does
mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply
endorsement by the U.S. Government.
Copyright © 1999 by The Endocrine Society
Vol. 140, No. 2
Printed in U.S.A.
Page 2
pliance with the Guideline for Care and Use of Experimental Animals.
Six-week-old females (21–24 g) were mated with NIH Swiss males for
4 h. The presence of a vaginal plug was considered day zero of
On days 6–12 of pregnancy, conceptuses (embryo and membranes)
and decidua were explanted from the uterus and placed in PBS. At E6
and E7, when structures were too small to clearly dissect apart micro-
the embryo proper, membranes, trophoblast, and surrounding decidua.
From E8–E12, when the embryo could be dissected away from the
decidua/trophoblast), these three issues were analyzed separately. At
E11–E12, the placentas were easily identified as separate structures and
were analyzed separately. Quantitative RT-PCR was performed on the
decidua, and samples were taken from that portion of the decidua
immediately adjacent to the uterine wall, for each gestational day from
E6–E17. All tissues were thoroughly rinsed in PBS and placed in 0.5 ml
RNA STAT-60 (Tel-Test, Inc., Friendswood, TX), with tissues from a
minimum of three different conceptuses pooled in each sample and a
minimum of three samples studied per developmental age. The tissues
were homogenized in RNA STAT-60, using disposable micropestles to
avoid cross-contamination, and were stored at ?80 C. In addition, fetal
brains from gestational day 17 mice were removed, homogenized in
RNA STAT-60, and stored at ?80 C.
For RNA extraction, samples were thawed on ice, 0.1 ml chloroform
was added, and they were vortexed and allowed to sit on ice for 5 min.
The samples were centrifuged in a microcentrifuge for 15 min at 4 C.
Supernatants were transferred to clean tubes, and 0.3 ml isopropanol
was added to each; samples were vortexed and frozen on dry ice for 30
min. After thawing on ice, samples were centrifuged, as before, at 4 C.
Pellets were washed three times with 75% ethanol, air-dried, and re-
suspended in 50 ?l DEPC-treated water. A 5-?l aliquot was taken for
spectrophotometric determination of RNA content. The remaining sam-
ple was stored at ?80 C.
Using 5 ?g of total RNA, the RT reaction was performed with reverse
the manufacturer, in a final vol of 150 ?l. Each RNA sample, which was
a pooled sample of at least three conceptuses, was run in duplicate.
Negative controls included RT reactions performed, omitting RNA or
different samples of the RT reaction product. Primer pairs and their
mimics were designed using Oligo software (National Biosources Inc.,
Plymouth, MN) and were synthesized (Bio-Synthesis, Inc., Louisville,
The VIP primer pair used were 5?-CAG GAA CCG GGA ACA GAC
T (sense) and 5?-TAT CAG GAA TGC CAG GAA CT (antisense). Neg-
ative controls included omission of the template in the PCR reaction. A
positive control was derived from tissue samples of mouse cortex that
exhibited a VIP mRNA band at 20–25 PCR cycles. The negative control
was E17 mouse tail RNA. Tail RNA exhibited an amplification product
at 35–40 PCR cycles. Cycle tests for cortex and E17 tail were run in each
PCR experiment to determine when VIP became positive.
Specifically, replicate cortex samples were removed at cycles 20, 25,
28, and 30; replicate tail samples were removed at cycles 28, 30, 35, and
40. In each experiment, there was at least a ten-cycle difference between
controls. Thirty cycles was designated as the negative cutoff for detec-
tion of VIP mRNA in the unknown samples. Negative controls were run
at 30 and 40 cycles. Interexperiment controls included aliquots from the
same sample of adult cortex and E17 tail in each series of RT reactions.
Samples were also run with cyclophilin primers as an internal control
for each reaction and for use for qualitative comparisons between the
samples. The amplification reactions were run on 4–20% acrylamide
TBE gels (Novex, San Diego, CA). Gels were stained with 0.01%
ethidium bromide for 10 min and photographed.
Quantitation of mRNA
cDNA mimics with the desired sequence and an internal deletion
were constructed using PCR amplification of mouse cortex cDNA, iso-
lated as described, using a 5? primer homologous to two regions of the
desired gene sequences along with the appropriate 3? sequence. The 5?
deletion primers for cyclophilin were 5?-ATG GCA CAG GAG GAA
AGA GCA ATG CAG GCA AAG ACA CC; and for VIP, 5?-CAG GAA
CCG GGA ACA GAC TAG CCG GAA AGG CAG CCC TG. Products
obtained from the synthesis were run on a 2% agarose gel (3 g Nusieve,
1 g agarose, 200 ml of 1 ? TBE with 10 ?l ethidium bromide) in 1 ? TBE
were collected into prepared Na 45 diethylaminoethyl membranes from
Schleicher & Schuell, Inc. The membranes were treated with 100 ?l
high-salt NET buffer (1 m NaCl, 0.1 mm EDTA, 20 mm Tris, pH 8) and
incubated at 55 C for 10 min. The buffer was removed and saved; this
step was repeated for a total of three times (300 ?l total). This was
For quantitation of mRNA, the PCR reaction was run with dilutions
of mimic primers (2 ?l), with incorporation of32P-deoxy-ATP. Each
sample was also run with dilutions of a cyclophilin mimic, for internal
normalization. To prevent evaporation, each sample was overlaid with
2 drops of mineral oil. The amplification reactions were separated
for determination of band size. Gels were stained with 0.01% ethidium
bromide for 10 min and photographed, dried (Bio-Rad Laboratories,
Inc., Richmond, CA), and placed on 3 m Whatman paper (Whatman
International Ltd., Maidstone, UK). The gels were exposed to a Molec-
ular Dynamics, Inc. (Sunnyvale, CA) storage phosphor screen for 18–24
h. Using ImageQuant software (Molecular Dynamics, Inc.), band inten-
mimic product to message product, was calculated after phosphoimage
cross-over values from each gestational day were compared with ges-
tational day 17 and were expressed as the percentage of gestational day
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)
At gestational days 9 and 17, conceptuses were explanted from the
uterus, within decidua (embryo, membranes, trophoblast, decidua, and
fluid), and maternal organs were removed (ovary, uterus, cervix/para-
cervix, intestine, cortex, hypothalamus, spinal cord, and placenta) from
at least five different pregnant mice. These were quick-frozen on dry ice
and stored at ?80 C. The tissue was weighted and homogenized in 3 ml
of 0.1 N HCl. Samples were vortexed, placed in boiling water for 10 min,
cooled on ice, vortexed, and centrifuged at 10,000 ? g for 30 min.
One-milliliter aliquots were evaporated to dryness in vacuo. Dried sam-
ples were stored at ?80 C.
For the E6–E12 plasma samples, blood was collected by cardiac
puncture into a syringe containing 15% EDTA and aprotinin (ICN Bio-
medicals, Inc., Aurora, OH). The samples were centrifuged at 1,600 ? g
for 10 min. The plasma from at least three mice was pooled, frozen on
dry ice, and kept at ?80 C until used. Using 0.5 ml of plasma for each
gestational day, plasma extraction was performed using Sep-Pack col-
umns, according to the manufacturer's protocol, with 1.0% trifluoro-
acetic acid (HPLC grade), and eluted with 3 ml of a 60% acetonitrile
(HPLC grade), 1% trifluoroacetic acid. The eluate was collected in a
polypropylene tube, triturated, and divided into two polypropylene
tubes. The samples were evaporated to dryness, under vacuum, and
stored at ?80 C until the ELISA was performed. Protein determination
(Bio-Rad protein assay; Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., Hercules, CA) was
performed on each sample before the ELISA. For the ELISA (Peninsula
Laboratories, Inc., Belmont, CA), 10 mg/well of protein was added from
each sample. The specificity of the ELISA is 100% for VIP (human,
porcine, rat, and guinea pig) and for VIP 10–28 (human, porcine, and
rat). The ELISA specificity for VIP from chicken is less than 1%; and for
ovine, and rat), it is less than 0.02%. The ELISA has no cross-reactivity
with substance P, endothelin-1, secretin, glucagon, galanin, somatosta-
tin, or PACAP-38 (human, ovine, and rat). The linear range of the ELISA
for VIP is 0.04–2.0 ng/ml. Concentrations of VIP were calculated per mg
protein for maternal organs or per ml for maternal plasma samples. The
interassay and intraassay coefficients of variation for the VIP ELISA
were 4% and 8%, respectively.
Endo • 1999
Vol 140 • No 2
Page 3
Collection of human serum
Women in early gestation, at a maximum of 5 weeks from their last
menstrual period, were identified in the Obstetrics clinic at William
Beaumont Army Medical Center. Gestational dating was confirmed in
the 25 women who met this criteria (using transvaginal sonography, at
the initial visit and weekly thereafter, until 6 weeks post conception).
Seven milliliters of blood was collected in a tube containing EDTA and
aprotinin. The sample was immediately centrifuged, and the obtained
of 5.5 samples were obtained from each patient, with a range of 2–7.
RIA for VIP in maternal (human) serum samples was performed by
Covance Laboratories, Inc. (Vienna, VA) with the use of a125I-RIA kit
(INCSTAR Corp., Stillwater, MN). Sensitivity of the RIA was 5 pg/ml.
For specificity, cross-reactivity was found to be less than 0.1%, with
secretin and 15 other peptides.
Immunocytochemistry (ICC)
Uteri from E9 gestations were fixed in situ with 4% paraformalde-
hyde, removed, and quick-frozen on dry ice. Twenty-micron sections
were cut on a cryostat and mounted on slides. For fluorescent ICC,
sections were fixed in cold acetone for 10 min, at 4 C, on a shaker. After
rinsing, the slides were incubated in 5% donkey serum (Jackson Im-
munoResearch Laboratories, Inc., West Grove, PA) in PBS, at room
temperature for 45 min, to suppress nonspecific binding of IgG. The
slides were incubated with the primary antibody overnight [anti-VIP,
Santa Cruz, CA)]. Anti-VIP is a rabbit antisera; anti-CD3-? is an affinity-
purified goat polyclonal antibody to CD3-?, which is present on T lym-
phocytes. The slides were then incubated in 5% donkey serum/PBS for
45 min. To permit identification of colocalized antigens, the sections
were then incubated, in the dark, in the fluorescein-conjugated second-
ary antibody [lissamine rhodamine-conjugated AffiniPure donkey an-
tirabbit IgG for VIP, 1:200; and CY2-conjugated AffiniPure donkey an-
tigoat IgG for CD3, 1:100 (both from Jackson ImmunoResearch
Laboratories, Inc.)] for 45 min.
After incubation, the sections were washed, mounted in 90% glyc-
erol/PBS, and examined with a fluorescence microscope. For standard
ICC, the sections were pretreated with 3% H2O2to deactivate any en-
dogenous peroxidase activity, blocked in 1% BSA for 1 h, and then
incubated with goat polyclonal IgG anti-T cell receptor ?, 1:50 (Santa
Cruz Biotechnology, Inc.), at 4 C, overnight. After washing, slides were
incubated with rabbit antigoat IgG, 1:2000 (Vectastain, Vector Labora-
tories, Inc., Burlingham, CA), for 1 h. The sections were reacted by using
the ABC method and visualized by 3,3?-diaminobenzidine (Sigma
were blocked in 1% BSA for 30 min and incubated with the second
primary antibody, rabbit anti-VIP, 1:500 (INCSTAR Corp.), at 4 C, over-
night. After washing, slides were incubated with goat antirabbit, 1:2000
(Vectastain, Vector Laboratories, Inc.), for 1 h. The sections were reacted
by using the conventional ABC method and visualized with Vector VIP,
a peroxidase substrate kit (Vectastain, Vector Laboratories, Inc.), which
stained the immunoreactive areas purple. The slides were then dehy-
by soluble preadsorption with the peptides in question, at a final con-
centration of 10?5m (INCSTAR Corp.). VIP immunolabeling was com-
pletely abolished by preadsorption with VIP. Preadsorption with the
following peptides resulted in no reduction of immunostaining:
(PACAP-38), secretin, gastric inhibitory polypeptide, somatostatin, glu-
cagon, insulin, ACTH, gastrin 34, FMFR-amide, rat GHRF, human
GHRF, peptide histidine isoleucine 27, rat pancreatic polypeptide, mo-
tilin, peptide YY, substance P, neuropeptide Y, and CGRP.
In vitro autoradiography
To identify VIP binding sites, in vitro autoradiography with125I-VIP
was performed as described previously (3, 11). In summary, a minimum
of eight uteri per E were sectioned, at 20 ?m, on a cryostat, and were
dried and frozen at ?80 C until use. The slides were brought to room
temperature and preincubated in binding buffer (10 mm HEPES, pH 7.4,
with 130 mm NaCl, 4.7 mm KCl, 5 mm MgCl2, 5 mm MnCl2, 1 mm EDTA,
1% BSA) for 30 min. Binding reactions were performed for 1 h at room
temperature in binding buffer with 1 mg/ml bacitracin and 50 pm
125I-labeled VIP (Amersham Corp., Arlington Heights, IL), with and
without 1 ?m VIP (Peninsula Laboratories, Inc.), to determine specific
binding, or with 10 ?m of the stable GTP analog guanylyl imidodiphos-
phate to differentiate GTP-sensitive from GTP-insensitive binding sites
(11). After incubation, the slides were transferred through three 1-min
rinses of cold PBS, pH 7.4, and rapidly dried under a stream of cool air.
Kodak Co., Rochester, NY). The specific binding was determined by
subtracting the light transmittance from brain sections (incubated with
1 ?m unlabeled VIP) from the total light transmittance.
Statistical analysis included ANOVA for continuous variables and
Mann-Whitney U for nonparametric data [Statview 4.5 (Abacus Con-
cepts, Inc., Berkeley, CA)], with P ? 0.05 considered significant.
VIP mRNA
In the E6 and E7 conceptions, which were evaluated intact
(with extraembryonic membranes, decidua, and tropho-
blast), RT-PCR detected VIP message (data not shown). In
E8–E10 embryonic tissues (which could be separated into
embryo proper, decidua/trophoblast, and extraembryonic
membranes), VIP mRNA was detected only in the decidua/
trophoblast (Fig. 1). By E11 or E12, VIP mRNA was no longer
evident in the decidua/trophoblast but was detected in the
embryo proper (Fig. 1). VIP mRNA was not detectable in the
extraembryonic membranes (E8–E12), E9 yolk sac, or in the
placenta (E11–E12) (data not shown). RT-PCR detected VIP
mRNA in E17 fetal brains (Fig. 1). All PCR reactions had
comparable cyclophilin products (data not shown).
Quantitative RT-PCR of the decidual samples revealed
increased VIP mRNA in the early postimplantation decidua,
compared with later in gestation, with a peak at E6–E8
(Fig. 2).
FIG. 1. RT-PCR of VIP mRNA in E8–
E12 of mouse embryo and decidua/tro-
phoblast, E6–E12 decidua, and E17 fe-
tal brain. VIP mRNA is present at E11–
E12 embryo and E6–E10 decidua/
trophoblast, and E17 brain, all at 30
cycles. Adult cortex (AC) and E17 tail
(Tail) were positive and negative con-
trols. Internal controls, RNA omitted in
RT reaction (-RNA) and RT product
omitted in the PCR reaction (-RTP),
were run at 40 cycles. EB, E17 brain
Page 4
VIP immunoreactivity was detected by ELISA in E9 con-
ceptuses (embryo proper, extraembryonic membranes, am-
niotic fluid, trophoblast, and decidua) and was significantly
1.7 ng/mg protein, P ? 0.01). There were no significant
differences in material organ concentrations of VIP between
gestational days 9 and 17 (Fig. 3). Maternal intestine and
cortex had the highest VIP levels among the organs tested.
the detection of the ELISA. For gestational day 9, 1/6 uteri
and 4/12 cervix/paracervix were below the limit of detec-
tion. For gestational day 17, 1/5 ovaries and 1/5 spinal cords
were below the detection of the ELISA. Maternal plasma
levels of VIP did not vary significantly throughout gesta-
tional days 6–12 (Fig. 4). All plasma samples were within the
detection limits of the ELISA.
Although women were assessed at a maximum of 21 days
in VIP serum levels during the 6 weeks the women were
because of the weekly interval that the women were studied,
these data are consistent with and complement those ob-
tained by Ottesen et al. (12), who collected plasma from 14
weeks' gestation.
VIP immunoreactivity was present in numerous scattered
small cells throughout the decidua. Fluorescent-ICC re-
vealed VIP immunoreactivity in decidual cells that colocal-
ized with cells immunoreactive for the CD3 T cell receptor
(Fig. 5). In addition, ICC demonstrated VIP immunoreactiv-
ity in cells of the decidua that colocalized with cells immu-
noreactive for the TCR ? receptor (Fig. 6).
Binding sites
Beginning at E6, VIP binding sites were abundant in the
and remained dense through E7 and E8 (Fig. 7). By E9,
decidual binding sites were much less apparent; and after
E10, they were not evident. In the embryo, VIP binding sites
were abundant in the floor plate and adjacent neuroepithe-
lium from E9, the earliest age at which the neural tube was
easily identified on autoradiograms (Fig. 7). In the mesome-
trial stroma, which was undergoing decidualization, most of
by GTP (Fig. 8); however, most binding in the interimplan-
tation uterus seemed to be insensitive to GTP (Fig. 8-middle).
A small region with nonspecific binding of
found in the region of the ectoplacental cone (Fig. 8, middle
and bottom). In E9 and older embryos, both GTP-sensitive
and GTP-insensitive binding sites were present.
125I-VIP was
Our results characterize VIP expression and localization
during early postimplantation mouse embryogenesis (E6–
E12). Previous work in the mouse showed that VIP regulates
FIG. 3. ELISA of gestational days 9 and 17 maternal organs. VIP
levels were not significantly different between E9 and E17 maternal
organs (ovary, uterus, cervix/paracervix, intestine, cortex, hypothal-
amus, and spinal cord). The placenta is not completely formed at E9,
thus placenta VIP levels were measured only at E17.
FIG. 4. ELISA was used to evaluate mouse maternal plasma VIP
levels. No significant differences were present in samples from E6–
E12 conceptuses. Each sample contained pooled plasma from at least
three mice (mean ? SE).
FIG. 2. Quantitative RT-PCR with a mimic primer revealed a sig-
nificant increase of VIP mRNA in the decidua at E6–E8. The location
of the cross-over from predominately mimic product to message prod-
uct was determined, and each sample was normalized to cyclophilin
mRNA [also determined for each gestational day (GD)]. Data are
presented as the percentage of VIP mRNA of GD 17.
Endo • 1999
Vol 140 • No 2
Page 5
early postimplantation embryonic growth, at least in part,
through action on binding sites localized to the primitive
neuroepithelium and floor plate (4, 12). This study shows
that, although VIP mRNA was not apparent in the mouse
embryo at this time, abundant VIP message was present in
the decidua/trophoblast during early post implantation.
This region was also found to contain abundant VIP-immu-
noreactive cells and dense VIP binding sites. VIP levels were
significantly higher in E9, compared with E17 conceptuses,
yet there were no significant differences in VIP levels in the
maternal plasma or organs at these gestational ages. At E6,
VIP binding sites were abundant in the mesometrial stroma
(the area undergoing decidualization); however, the binding
sites gradually decreased and reached low levels at the time
of placenta formation (E10–E11). By E11, after placenta for-
mation, VIP mRNA became apparent in the embryo. Thus,
during E9–E11, the time during which VIP is known to play
a role in growth regulation, both VIP binding sites and im-
in the embryo or yolk sac. However, in the decidua, VIP
binding sites, mRNA, and immunoreactivity were abundant
during this time period. The VIP immunoreactivity was lo-
calized to cells having T cell receptor markers CD3 and ?.
These findings suggest that the VIP, which is critical to em-
bryonic growth, originates from maternal ?? lymphocytes in
the decidua.
In the mouse, transfer of VIP from mother to embryo has
been demonstrated. Previous work from our laboratory
has shown that125I-VIP, injected into the uterine vascu-
lature, was found in the E10 mouse embryo (13). The
transfer apparently is rapid, because embryos were eval-
uated 15 min after injection. We have been unable to detect
VIP mRNA in the mouse embryo at this crucial time;
however, there are abundant binding sites in the floor
plate and adjacent neuroepithelium (4). Our findings sug-
gest that the source of VIP that acts during the postim-
plantation growth phase of the mouse embryo is maternal
in origin. After implantation, decidual invasion, and pla-
cental formation, both maternal and embryonic tissues at
the implantation site are undergoing rapid growth and
differentiation. This region contains maternal blood cells
coexisting with extraembryonic trophoblast cells. Whether
the VIP produced in these cells is released and available
to the embryo at this time would be difficult to determine.
However, we have shown that the peptide is present,
although not expressed by the embryo, during implanta-
tion. In addition, the time period between implantation
and placental development, embryonic-maternal ex-
FIG. 5. Fluorescent
chemistry revealed VIP immunoreac-
tivity in decidual cells, which colocal-
ized with immunoreactivity for the
CD3-? T cell receptor. A, Hematoxylin-
and eosin-stained E9 conceptus within
basalis, area of magnification in sister
sections C–F (?10). B, Higher magnifi-
cation of A, arrow points to area of
C–F within decidua basalis (?100). C,
stained section with CD3-?, 1:100 (San-
ta Cruz Biotechnology, Inc.), an affini-
ty-purified goat polyclonal antibody
and CY2-conjugated AffiniPure donkey
antigoat IgG, 1:400 (Jackson Immu-
noResearch Laboratories, Inc.) (?630).
D, Fluorescent immunohistochemistry-
stained section with anti-VIP (INCSTAR
Corp.) and lissamine rhodamine-conju-
gated AffiniPure donkey antirabbit IgG,
1:400 (Jackson ImmunoResearch Labo-
VIP and CD3-? (?630). F, Control sister
section, incubated without primary anti-
bodies, visualized as in E, under dual
lens, allowing visualization of rhoda-
mine, CY2, and their colocalization. YS,
Yolk sac; E, embryo; EPC, ectoplacental


text:
Asia Follows Wall St. Higher, Euro Probes Lows
Asia Follows Wall St. Higher, Euro Probes Lows
Is Rubio the New Favorite to Win GOP Nomination?
Unlock your personal NFL Now stream by signing in to NFL.com
Asian equities gained early on Thursday, lifted by another record-high close on Wall Street, while the euro probed recent lows against the dollar amid market speculation the U.S. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 0.15 percent. The Dow closed at a record high overnight, boosted by merger news and strong earnings from blue chips such as Intel Corp. The euro stood at $1.3527, not far from a one-month low of $1.3520 hit the previous day.
Missteps by other candidates and a series of strong performances on the campaign trail have helped improve Marco Rubio's presidential possibilities. Some top GOP operatives say the Florida senator is for now the favorite to win the Republican presidential nomination. The struggles and eventual withdrawal of Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker eliminated one of the Republicans who, like Rubio, had the potential to appeal to both the establishment and conservative wings of the party. Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush has not overcome reluctance from the GOP to elect a third president from the same family and instead has raised concerns that didn't exist about him at the beginning of the year.
New Volkswagen Chief Executive Matthias Mueller warned staff on Tuesday to brace for "massive cutbacks" in response to the diesel emissions scandal that has hammered the company's stock and reputation. Speaking to employees at VW headquarters, Mueller, who replaced longtime CEO Martin Winterkorn late last month, said all the company's investment plans would be put under review and an existing cost-cutting program accelerated, cautioning, "this will not be painless". It was the first admission that the emissions crisis, which has sent tremors through the broader auto industry, could lead to significant job cuts at the company, which employs close to 60,000 at its main factory, roughly 10 percent of its global workforce.
27 different women who have accused comedian and actor Bill Cosby of sexual assault have agreed to a joint interview with NBC's "Dateline" on Friday. This is a feat the network is marketing as the first time nearly half of the people who have accused Cosby of the crime have gathered together in the same place to discuss the issue. Kate Snow, the NBC News correspondent who was recently named to host the Sunday edition of "NBC Nightly News," will conduct the discussion.
Volkswagen said 8 million diesel vehicles in the European Union were fitted with software capable of cheating vehicle emissions tests, according to a copy of the letter sent to German lawmakers and seen by Reuters. In the letter dated Oct. 2 and co-signed by the former government spokesman and current VW chief lobbyist Thomas Steg, says that vehicles with 1.2, 1.6 and 2.0 liter variants of the engine type EA 189 are affected. German newspaper Handelsblatt originally reported the contents of the letter, which was sent to members of the transport committee in the German lower house of parliament as well as lawmakers in constituencies where Volkswagen has factories.
Lawyers for former New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez will ask a judge to dismiss murder charges against Hernandez in a 2012 double slaying. A hearing is scheduled Tuesday in Suffolk Superior Court on a motion from Hernandez's lawyers to drop the charges. Prosecutors say Hernandez killed Daniel de Abreu and Safiro Furtado after de Abreu accidentally bumped into Hernandez at a Boston nightclub, spilling his drink.
Community Episode 1: Ladders
Community Episode 2: Lawnmower Maintenance and Postnatal Care
Community Episode 3: Basic Crisis Room Decorum
Community Episode 4: Queer Studies and Advanced Waxing
Community Episode 5: Laws of Robotics and Party Rights
Community Episode 6: Basic Email Security
Sin City Saints Episode 1: The Fool Monty
Sin City Saints Episode 2: Smoke and Mirrors
Sin City Saints Episode 3: Gone Catfishing
Sin City Saints Episode 4: Mrs. Wu's Tang
Sin City Saints Episode 5: A Basket Full of Rainbows
Sin City Saints Episode 6: You Booze, You Lose


text:
Settler's Ranch
11144 Fuqua Houston Texas 77089
Are you the property manager?
This is Settler's Ranch, the definition of true ranch and resort-style living. Envision a home exquisitely designed with more room to stretch out and relax. Spacious interior features custom details like gourmet kitchens, lush carpet, ceramic tile-entry, oversized closets and bath areas with walk-in showers and garden tubs. Workout in our expansive fitness studio or unwind at the resort-style pool, basketball court, putting green or jogging trail. Area shopping is spectacular. The finest choice is Settlers Ranch.
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Whether frilly or fabulous, sweet or sophisticated, our flower girl baskets are always eye-catching! Choose classic white baskets for flower girls or unique flower girl baskets in dramatic colors and themed designs. And don't forget to fill your flower girl baskets with plenty of rose petals�fresh, freeze-dried or silk�for your flowergirl to toss as she skips down the aisle. Browse through our selection of flower girl baskets to find one that's right for your little flower girl!
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Add some romance to your rustic wedding with this adorable flower basket. This cute flower basket is covered in burlap ...
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Add some old world charm to your wedding ceremony with this adorable flower girl basket. The perfect complement to a ...
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2011 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab PreRunner V6 4dr Double Cab 5.0 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
lots of power, rides nice, corners great, gets 18.8mpg city/hwy so far.
truck sits as high as full-sized.
very roomy.
lots of leg-room for tall drivers.
v6 provides top-notch performance.
move the glasses holder to a different location.
if left open, i will bump it with my head as i enter the truck which is very painful.
offer leather seats.
offer electric seats.
get michelin tires instead of dunlops.
driver's seat sits too high for me.
also the hood scoop...get rid of it since it is not functional.
Previously owned a Ford F150 with V-8.
After 7 years, I made the decision to 'down size' to the Tacoma.
The Ford was more comfortable and much easier to get in/out of.
Additionally, (and somewhat incredibly) the Tacoma only delivers about 1.5 better MPG.
However, the Tacoma is much easier to park in tight spaces and rides on a par with the larger F150.
Brakes on the Tacoma are adequate in spite of feeling as though there is air in the brake line ('mushy').
Also, be aware, the brakes squeak/squeal & you will be told by Tacoma that this is "NORMAL"
If you are down sizing, be willing to accept less vehicle in interior/exterior space, ride, and hauling capability with little MPG improvement.
Good size for today's tight parking lots.
Brakes, ingress/egress, seating position for easier entry/exit.
Actually did not want to look at Toyota when looking to buy. Glad I did. I've owned all types. Needed to tow,haul passengers,and equip. I got all. Back seat has more room then any competitor. Tow's my boat and trailers with no problems. Ride is excellent with no short-bed bouncing. More than enough power with smooth shifts. MPG could be a little more in city driving. Getting 22+ mpg (not to bad though). Tie down rails in bed work great. Plenty of drink holders but center ones need to be bigger. Actually is very quiet ride.
Engine power. Tow capacity Rear seat
Make a 6 speed Auto/ Higher overdrive Larger center cup holders Put a light for the bed
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You are a fan of help l33t ? Come to discover the best forums help l33t on the internet and share your experience with a community fan of help l33t . You can also build a forum help l33t and create your online discussion.
L33t Gaming: A gaming community.
Free forum : We R L33t
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About / News
ketamine powder - pictures
Results for: ketamine powder. Choose any of the images below.
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Ketamine Powder
Ketamine Prices, Ketamine Statistics, Ketamine Use - USA
Ketamine | Healing in the Hurting Places
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Large exhibit bag full of Ketamine powder
Ketamine Powder is a Chemicals product with full features as Ketamine ...
Photo: Ketamine powder seen spread out in lines
There is growing evidence that Ketamine can severe bladder damage ...
Powder ... ketamine is sold on the street for £20 per gram


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5 Players the Denver Nuggets Should Sign in NBA Free Agency 2013
NBA Free Agency 2013: 5 players the Nuggets should sign
The Denver Nuggets have a tough free agency ahead of them. They currently have 11 roster spots filled by contracts. Free agents Andre Iguodala, Corey Brewer, Julyan Stone and Timofey Mozgov can sign with any other team.
Rookies Erick Green and Joffrey Lauvergne are still without contracts. However, Lauvernge is expected to stay outside the country for at least another season to develop. If Green goes under contract, the Nuggets will have a maximum of three roster spots available to fill.
Iguodala, perhaps the most sought after free agent besides Dwight Howard, would be tough for the Nuggets to replace. The 29-year-old opted-out of his last year with the Nuggets that would have guaranteed him $16 million. Head coach Brian Shaw and General Manager Tim Connelly met with Iguodala in Los Angeles on Monday , but the two parties haven't reached a deal, yet. Iguodala has seen interest from the Detroit Pistons, New Orleans Pelicans, Sacramento Kings, Golden State Warriors and Atlanta Hawks. Since Iguodala played with the Nuggets last season, they can offer him a five-year contract. Yesterday, the Kings offered him a four-year, $56 million contract. After Iguodala declined to make a decision, the Kings pulled their offer. Iguodala obviously doesn't want to be a part of a rebuilding franchise. He wants a championship. Now.
The Nuggets would ideally re-sign all three player, but they still need to consider their options if they lose them.
According to ESPN's Marc Stein, the salary cap will only rise to $58.5 mil next season. Right now the team has a total of $51.9 million in contracts, leaving them with little room to spare. They can only re-sign Iguodala because of the "Early Bird rule," which allows teams to spend up to the league's average salary in the first season of a new contract. The Nuggets will need to act aggressively in free agency if they lose Iguodala. If the Nuggets can't get the three to re-sign, these are the players they should consider picking up.
Jarrett Jack
Jarrett Jack smoked the Denver Nuggets in the 2013 NBA Playoffs averaging 18.8 points and seven assists in six playoff games for his Golden State Warriors. Jack's ability to score would immensely help a team that has struggled shooting from the perimeter. During regular season, Jack shot at .506% from the field. While the Nuggets were the highest scoring team last year, averaging 106 ppg, a majority of those points (57) came from inside the paint. If the Nuggets were to acquire Jack, they would most likely need to get rid of 37-year-old Andre Miller, who has one year left on his contract. Jack has the ability create a real spark off the bench and could immediately make an impact on the Nuggets.
Monta Ellis
Monta Ellis has proven his elite talent in the NBA. He's a natural scorer who can also dish-out the ball. He averaged 19 points and six assists last season. Before leaving the Golden State Warriors and joining the Milwaukee Bucks last season, he averaged 25 ppg for the Warriors. Like Jarrett Jack, Ellis would provide an offensive spark from the perimeter that the Denver Nuggets lack. Ellis is consistent from the free throw line, shooting .773% in his past seven NBA seasons. This would tremendously help the Nuggets, who shot a dismal .701%, the 28th best free throw percentage in the NBA last season. Right now Ellis would be a long shot for the Nuggets because of his price tag, but rumor has it he has met with the team this past week.
Kyle Korver
Kyle Korver is by far the best shooter in the 2013 NBA free agency pool. Last season, Korver shot .457% from downtown, scored 2.6 threes per game and .859 from the free throw line in 30 minutes for the Atlanta Hawks. The Denver Nuggets could really use a player like Korver to open up the offense. Korver would get plenty of open shots kick-out passes from PF Kenneth Faried and Javale McGee. This pick would also make total financial sense for the Nuggets. The 32-year-old made $5 million last year, and expects to make the same, or less, this upcoming season. The Brooklyn Nets aggressively pursued Korver but were unable to land him due monetary restrictions.
O.J. Mayo
25-year-old O.J. Mayo is still trying to find a team that will take his game to the next level. While Mayo is best known for his streaky shooting, he just had his best season with the Dallas Mavericks. Mayo averaged 15.3 points on .407% shooting from three point land and added 4.4 assists per game. Mayo asked for a raise from the Mavericks from his $4.2 million deal for the 2013-14 season, but the Mavericks declined. The Denver Nuggets couldn't offer Mayo much more money. If Mayo is looking to join a championship-caliber team, the Nuggets should be a contender to sign him.
Chris Copeland
Chris Copeland graduated from the University of Colorado in 2006 before entering the NBA D-League and then playing five seasons in Europe. Last year, the 29-year-old rookie turned heads after making the New York Knicks' roster. During his tenure in NY, he played in 56 games averaging 15.4 minutes, 8.7 points, and 42% shooting from three. While the Denver Nuggets are loaded at the forward positions with Kenneth Faried, Darrell Arthur, Danilo Gallinari and Wilson Chandler, they could still use another shooter. The Los Angeles Lakers, Indiana Pacers, Utah Jazz, and Dallas Mavericks have already contacted him.Jordan Morey is a Denver Nuggets writer for RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @Jordanamorey, "Like" him on Facebook, or add him to your network on Google.
5 Bold Predictions for Hawks' in 2015-16 Season
The Atlanta Hawks have their gaze set on the Larry O'Brien. Here's a list of some bold observations as we head into the beginning of what should be a successful season for the Hawks. Read More
Looney Has Great Future Ahead For Warriors
Kevon Looney was selected with the 30th pick in the 2015 NBA Draft. Looney might not get minutes this season, but his future is bright. Read More
Bradley's Improved Shooting Will Boost Celtics
If these two preseason games are any indication, Avery Bradley is going to light it up from downtown this year. Read More
5 Final Predictions for Washington Wizards' Season
Here are five final predictions for the Washington Wizards. Read More
Warriors Will Be Fine In Steve Kerr's Absence
The Golden State Warriors won't have Steve Kerr on the sidelines for quite some time, but Draymond Green believes his team will weather this storm. Read More
Miami Heat Must Upgrade Pitiful 3-Point Shooting
The Miami Heat are going to need more three-point shooting if they are expecting to compete for a title. Read More
Julius Randle Will Be the Lakers' Saving Grace
Julius Randle has the potential to be the new leading man for the Los Angeles Lakers starting this season. Read More
5 Final Bold Predictions For Rockets In 2015-16
The Houston Rockets have a chance to repeat the success of this past season and possibly do better. The addition of Ty Lawson brings a weapon to a pretty strong team, so the sky is the limit. Read More


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Memorial Day Salad Recipes
From traditional greens to coleslaw, fruit salads and more, try these must-make recipes for your celebration.
Recipe Spotlight
Tossing the cooked potatoes with stock and wine right after you drain them infuses them with flavor. The liquid absorbs like magic. —George Levinthal, Goleta, CaliforniaView Red, White & Blue Potato Salad Recipe


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Marvel Studios announced Thursday it will squeeze "Ant-Man and the Wasp" into its 2018 movie schedule.» Read More
For the third year since 2011, films by Meagan Ellison, daughter of Oracle founder Larry Ellison, are box office hits and contenders for major awards.
World Wrestling Entertainment announced details on the highly anticipated WWE Network, a 24/7 streaming and video on-demand service, at CES.
Gadget makers showcasing latest Internet-connected TVs and smartphones at The Consumer Electronics Show is enabling a surge in streaming content.
The CEO of Publicis Groupe revealed that the approval process for its proposed merger with Omnicom is progressing faster than expected.
Increasingly CES is the go-to destination for Madison Avenue to make deals and figure out how the latest technology will transform the advertising business.
U.S. cable and satellite Tv operators are now squaring off over the mobile apps that viewers are increasingly using to watch TV.
Disney CEO Bob Iger likes people like Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey on the media conglomerate's board because they get "in our face."
Liberty Media said it would offer to buy out minority shareholders in Sirius XM.
Apple has reportedly purchased the small company that makes a popular photography app.
Showtime's strategy in the high-stakes game of pay-per-view boxing worked once. Now it hopes the gameplan works again.
Tech veterans Kara Swisher and Walt Mossberg of Revere Digital discuss the launch of "Re/code," a reincarnation of "All Things D." Re/code also signed a content agreement with NBC News group to partner on technology coverage.
"The Wolf of Wall Street" was a pretty accurate depiction of Wall Street, said former trader Raj Mahal. He shares some real-life stories that will make your toes curl.
Discussing if internet advertising revenues will exceed traditional television ads in 2014, with Jon Steinberg, Buzzfeed president.
Like a hunky doctor killed pulling cute children from an orphanage fire, soap operas seemed to have died a grisly death. Until...
After a string of court cases and the advent of new technology, the music industry appears to be winning the battle against illegal downloads.
A hacker secretly took over a computer server at the BBC, Britain's public broadcaster, and tried to sell access to the server on Christmas Day.
Traders bail on Twitter, 3D Systems and Tesla. Will they continue to defy logic, or will the run on ridiculous stocks continue, with CNBC's Dominic Chu and the Options Action traders.
"Investors are starved for growth," explains BuzzFeed President and COO Jon Steinberg, in discussing investment action in new media-related stocks.
Companies are trying everything from deploying moderators to forcing people to use their real names in order to restore civil discourse.
CNBC's Julia Boorstin reports on the economics of the fantasy sports business and highlights new football leagues that allow you to draft a new team every week.
Get the best of CNBC in your inbox


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John Buck is a dynamic artist widely known for his carved wood and bronze sculptures and large woodblock prints that incorporate a variety of diverse imagery. Meet John at his 7 PM gallery talk.
Sample delicious wine, beer, and nonalcoholic beverages while listening to music by KBGA.
for seven engaging years of First Fridays at MAM.
October 3 // 1 PM // Free
John Buck has been creating large-scale, mechanical, kinetic sculptures. The scale of his sculptural work requires an installation in two of MAM's larger spaces, the Carnegie and the Aresty galleries. The exhibition includes a mix of sculptures and prints and will premier his most recently completed kinetic sculpture State of the Union.
Meet John after he talks about his work. Reception to follow the talk.
October 15 // 5 PM // $100
Valley of the Moon // James Turrell Skyspace
Members are invited to a very special excursion to the home of private collectors. At this luxurious residence nestled deep in the Valley of the Moon, members will have access to the privately commissioned installation, Skyspace, by American artist James Turrell.
Museum staff and guests will meet at MAM at 5 PM to car pool to this event. A delicious Fall dinner will be provided at Valley of the Moon. Space is limited for this exclusive event.
Ticket must be purchased in advance. Please call 406.728.0447 to purchase tickets.


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Fiber Dreams Patterns - Lalique is a similar pattern: adult cardigan garment, for women, and lace (33 sts or more/4 in) yarn gauge. You may also like Joji Locatelli Joji Knits Patterns - Make A Wish, which is another similar pattern: 20 (5 sts. / inch) finished gauge, adult cardigan garment, and for women.
You may enjoy taking a look at the , and Jade Sapphire Mongolian Cashmere 4-Ply Flower Petal Hat kits all using Jade Sapphire Patterns.
Hopefully our suggested yarn options for Flower Petal Hat can help you come up with your next exciting new project idea!


text:
John Masefield
1 portrait
© National Portrait Gallery, London
John Masefield
by William Strang
etching, 1912
20 3/4 in. x 14 7/8 in. (527 mm x 378 mm)
Given by Contemporary Portraits Fund, 1967
Primary Collection
Click on the links below to find out more:
Sitterback to top
- John Masefield (1878-1967), Poet Laureate. Sitter in 36 portraits.
Artistback to top
- William Strang (1859-1921), Painter and etcher. Artist associated with 65 portraits, Sitter in 11 portraits.
Linked publicationsback to top
- Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 418
Subject/Themeback to top
Tell us moreback to top
Can you tell us more about this portrait? Spotted an error, something missing, or do you know anything that we don't know? If you have any information to share please complete the form below
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Asylum Harbor by Isla Grey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
"Asylum Harbor" by Isla Grey
Entertaining and well-written. Those are the first two descriptions I can say for Isla's book, but not the only ones. Terrific comes to mind, as well.
Devon Brown is one strong protagonist. She still believes in relationships, even after some past ones filled with drama. Moving to Shell Island to escape her family, Devon finds herself bartending and staying with an old crotchety woman. The bartending was okay, but the old lady? Not so much.
If Devon thought her past relationships with family and friends were hard, little did she know that the ones in Shell Island would be just as challenging, especially her new-found romance with Kerr. Victoria is a dancer at the bar where Devon works. Let's just say Victoria doesn't particularly care for Devon and it only gets worse when Victoria finds out that Devon and Kerr are romantically involved.
It's one battle after another for Devon, but love wins out in the end. A great read and a must have!
Reviewed by Starr Gardinier, author of "The Other Side: Melinda's Story"
View all my reviews
QueenWriter News
Blog related to writing of all sorts.
Saturday, October 3, 2015
Friday, October 2, 2015
Join us for our Facebook Launch Party on October 3, 2015 between 10 am and 1 pm PST. Authors appearing will be:
- Starr Gardinier, author of "The Other Side: Melinda's Story"
- Debra Doggett, author of "Bone of my Bones"
- Susan Edwards, author of "Red and her big bad Dom"
- Abigail Owen, author of "Blue Violet"
- Peggy Jaeger, author of "First Impressions"
- Sharon Saracino, author of "Her Executive Protector"
- Lida Sideris, author of "Murder and Other Unnatural Disasters"
- Casi McLean, author of "Hearts Akilter"
- Devon McKay, author of "Cowboy on the Run"
- Kayden Claremont, author of "Timeless Passion"
- Maureen Bonatch, author "Grandma Must Die"
Simply go to:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1204016436282600/ and join. It's FREE and you could be a lucky winner of a prize or prizes! Each author will be giving away something.
I will be giving away a FREE DIGITAL copy of "The Other Side: Melinda's Story."
Can't wait to see everyone there!
Posted by Starr Smith at 12:01 AM No comments: Links to this post
Labels: abigail owen, book release, casi mclean, debra doggett, devon mckay, facebook, kayden claremont, launch party, lida sideris, maureen bonatch, peggy jaeger, sharon saracino, starr gardinier, susan edwards
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Review of "Beneath the Lake"
I couldn't put "Beneath the Lake" by Casi McLean down. Warning! If you don't have time to sit down and read, don't pick this book up. Seriously, it grabbed me from sentence one and you won't want to put this book down and go back to work.
Innocently, Piper invites her best friend Lacey to a party. At the party, Lacey finds her boyfriend Cole in the arms of another woman. Dashing from the party, she rushes out into a storm and ends up crashing her car.
It's when she wakes us her journey begins. It's a voyage beyond one's imagination. Lacey has always had issues with trust and love, stemming from the death of her mother. She seems to constantly pick the wrong man. Cole quickly becomes a bad memory when Lacey meets (again?) her true soulmate.
I really don't want to say much more about the story for fear of ruining it for the reader. Suffice it to say, Lacey goes on a fantastical trip, bringing the reader with her. I will say however, it's history in the making.
Can I give it ten stars? Most reviews are up to five stars, but it's not enough for this book. Casi has such amazing talent that I'm breaking the mold and giving her 10 STARS. I absolutely recommend this book!
Reviewed by Starr Gardiner, author of "The Other Side: Melinda's Story," part of the Other Side series
We have another winner!
And we have another WINNER! Maureen Bonatch just won an ebook of "The Other Side: Melinda's Story". Yay, Maureen!
Other opportunities will arise for others to win. Just keep watching my posts of where I'll be for my BLOG HOP. I post on Twitter and Facebook. Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorStarr and Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/StarrGardinier.
Author Peggy Jaeger has a new Release TODAY!
Peggy Jaeger holds a master's degree in Nursing Administration and first found publication with several articles she authored on Alzheimer's Disease during her time running an Alzheimer's in-patient care unit during the 1990s.
In 2013, she placed first in two categories in the Dixie Kane Memorial Contest: Single Title Contemporary Romance and Short/Long Contemporary Romance.Peggy is a contemporary romance author who writes about strong women, the families who support them, and the men who can't live without them.
Her current titles, available now, include "Skater's Waltz" and "There's no Place Like Home," books one and two in her six-book The MacQuire Women Series, published by The Wild Rose Press.
Tying into her love of families, her children's book, " The Kindness Tales," was illustrated by her artist mother-in-law.
A lifelong and avid romance reader and writer, she is a member of RWA and her local New Hampshire RWA Chapter.
But today, we're here to talk about her latest release, "First Impressions." This is RELEASED TODAY! Here's a little about the book:
Family Practice Doctor Clarissa Rogers's first impression of Padric Cleary is biased and based on gossip. The handsome, charming veterinarian is considered a serial dater and commitment-phobic by his family and most of the town. Relationship shy, Clarissa refuses to lose her heart to a man who can't pledge himself to her forever.
Pat Cleary, despite his reputation, is actually looking for The One. When he does give his heart away, he wants it to be for life. With his parent's marriage as his guidebook, he wants a woman who will be his equal and soul mate in every way. Can Pat convince everyone – including Clarissa – she's the only woman for him?
Get your copy now!
Available on September 23, 2015, but you can pre-order:
amazon.com: http://amzn.to/1Kvp1qY
Wild Rose Press: http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=195&products_id=6373
You can read more about Peggy and her work:
- on her website/Blog: http://peggyjaeger.com/,
- at twitter: https://twitter.com/peggy_jaeger,
- on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Peggy-Jaeger-Author/825914814095072?ref=bookmarks,
- at Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/peggyjaeger/
- or on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13478796.Peggy_Jaeger
Disclaimer: Unless specifically stated on any feature posted, QueenWriter News has not read or reviewed a feature book.
If you're an author and would like to be featured on QueenWriter News, email firstname.lastname@example.com.
Happy Reading!
Sunday, September 20, 2015
Review: Area 51: An Uncensored History of America's Top Secret Military Base
Area 51: An Uncensored History of America's Top Secret Military Base by Annie Jacobsen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Very informative. It has a lot of information I hadn't heard about. I recommend this to anyone who's interested in the goings-on at Area 51.
View all my reviews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Very informative. It has a lot of information I hadn't heard about. I recommend this to anyone who's interested in the goings-on at Area 51.
View all my reviews
Winner Selected!
LUCKY WINNER HAS BEEN SELECTED! I appeared on Peggy Yaeger's blog yesterday giving away a free ebook of "The Other Side: Melinda's Story." A winner was selected. Help me congratulate Hebby Roman! There are more opportunities coming up for you to win. Just keep checking out my posts on Facebook and/or Twitter. [Hint: Monday the 21st is the next giveaway!]
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Who is Melinda James? A Character Interview
First, I have to say that you will want to read this entire posting. There's an unveiling below. And don't skip to the end just to see it!
I've been posting and tweeting and facebooking about Melinda James. I'm getting emails from people--some I know, others I don't--asking who is Melinda James? To answer that question, I've brought Melinda James here today. She will answer the question and give you some enlightening information about why you should get to know her. In my opinion--I am her creator--she's an enigma. Yes, even to me.
So, without further ado, let me introduce you to Melinda James:
QueenWriter (QW): Melinda, I've been asked by several people who you are. Can you please tell everyone?
Melinda James (MJ): I was created by Starr Gardinier. I'm simply a fictional character.
QW: There must be more you can tell your readers.
MJ: There's a lot I can tell you. Okay, I'll give you a glimpse into my life. That should more than explain why I've been breathed into existence.
As you know, my name is Melinda James. My childhood growing up was pretty typical. That is, until I reach my teenage years. That's when everything started going downhill. I know some of the first things you're thinking are typical teenage problems: zits, too fat, other kids making fun, bullies. God, how I wish that's all it was.
My problems started and ended with death. Not mine, mind you, but some people very close to me. It's a wonder I didn't end up in an insane asylum. Oh wait...I did. Well, to put it simply, death made me crazy. At least, that's what everyone thought. Was I crazy? Am I still crazy?
QW: Are you?
MJ: Crazy? No. At least, my best friends Beth ad Trent say I'm not. Even Felicity sees how normal I am. Then again, Dr. Leever might argue with those assumptions.
Anyway, to tell you who I really am, we have to go back in time to when I was thirteen....
I tried to tell them it was going to happen, but nobody would listen. They all said I was just having bad dreams, or that I was crazy.
It started at my father's funeral. It's been so long since it first began, about eight years ago. Sometimes though, it seems like yesterday. My father was there. No, I don't mean just in the casket. He was there. He talked to me, begged me to tell Mom that we all needed to run and hide. He said we were all in danger.
I asked him why he didn't tell Mom himself. He said he tried, but she wasn't listening. I heard him fine. But I didn't believe him. Why would we be in danger? We can't just up and leave. My friends are all here in Beaumont. When I told him that, he said it was important, that it was a matter of life and death. He seemed so worried, but I was so confused, I blew him off.
I guess when it first happened I didn't pay any heed to his warning. We went on with our lives. Mom was grief stricken, my brother Kyle was in his own world playing videos and I was trying to shut my father out of my mind. Was I going crazy? What was wrong with me? Dad was dead, but I could still see and hear him.
If I tell you the story, will you believe me?
QW: Wait. So you're saying your father was dead and he talked to you from the grave?
MJ: From the grave, from wherever. He called it the "Other Side."
QW: Have you been to this "Other Side?"
MJ: Now, you're jumping the gun. I'll answer and say yes, but it's Trent who will tell you that story later on. Starr created him, too and you'll read about him in "The Other Side: Trent's Story." It would be an injustice to Trent to try and explain him to you. Talk about an enigma. I'm like an open book, pun intended, whereas Trent...well, let's just say, Starr really crossed to the "Other Side" to create him.
QW; Is there anything else you can tell us?
MJ: I would love to, but I can't. Starr would be very upset if I told you everything. Just read "The Other Side: Melinda's Story" and you'll have your answers.
QW: Thank you for joining us today, Melinda. It was nice speaking with you.
If you want to know even more about Melinda James, click on any of the links below:
Starting tomorrow, September 18, 2015, you'll be so engrossed in Melinda's Story, you'll be begging to read Trent's, which is due out soon.
Now for the unveiling
Drum roll please...
That cover even scares me! The artist at Wild Rose Press did a fantastic job!
And by the way, you guys are the very first to see "The Other Side: Trent's Story" cover art unveiled!
Please comment and answer these simple questions:
1. Are you ready to read Melinda James's story? Did you pre-order?
2. Are you curious yet about what Trent might have to say? Would you like to be put on a list where I can email you when I get Trent's release date?
You can send me your email privately at firstname.lastname@example.com, but please do comment here.
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Today, QueenWriter is Bringing Author Isla Grey to You
Please help me welcome author Isla Grey
Isla Grey is from Central Virginia and still lives in the same small town she grew up in. She developed a love of writing at an early age and over the years has tried her hand at penning poetry (some good, some not so good), screenwriting, newspaper articles, and historical stories. She's "old school" when it comes to writing and is a hoarder of more pens, post-it notes and writing journals than she'll ever need. Isla likes to write different types of stories from romance to mystery and anything in between and loves a "happy for now but there could be some bad things coming" feel.
When Isla's not writing, she spends her time being called "Mom, Mama, Mommy" (well, you get the picture) by her daughter who is forever active, even in her sleep. She considers herself an unofficial "cat whisperer" and is a pet human to a plethora of cats that have taken up residence at her home over the years. Isla also enjoys reading a good biography or ghost story, traveling even though "there's no place like home", good music played loud, and walking. Isla loves movies and is the movie mistakes editor at Bellaonline.com where she talks about…well…movies.
Her novella, "A Voice in the Dark", is available now and her book, "Asylum Harbor", will be released September 16th, 2015 through Wild Rose Press. "Asylum Harbor" is book one in her Salty Dog series.
But don't let me tell you about her latest work. Just watch this:
"Still Waters Run Deep"
Trouble is the last thing Devon Brown needs when she leaves the painful memories of her past behind and heads to Shell Island. As the Salty Dog's new bartender, she finds herself drawn to Kerr, the Shell Island harbormaster. But finding her happily-ever-after is difficult when dealing with an obnoxious bootlegger who supplies the bar with illegal liquor and a jealous coworker.
A standoffish loner with damaged emotions, Kerr avoids relationships like the plague. Things change when Devon catches his eye. As a simple flirtation grows serious, the coworker and bootlegger quickly become obstacles to any future Kerr and Devon may have together. As the situation worsens, Devon realizes that even the still waters of Asylum Harbor are no refuge during a storm.
Here's an Excerpt
"You already got dibs on this one Kerr?"
Porter shot an evil glare at the opposite end of the bar and looked back toward her. "I'll see you tonight." He flicked his tongue. "After work." He raised his glass in a mock toast and chugged it in one gulp.
The lights dimmed for Victoria's dance of the night. Devon watched Kerr, who was usually headed for the exit by now, and breathed a sigh of relief when he remained glued to his seat with his back to the stage. He wasn't staying for Victoria's peep show. There must have been something about this Porter character that got under his skin in a bad way.
Devon was eager for the quick break. She hustled to the back as the chords to "Simply Irresistible" began to pelt over the speakers and ran some cold water over her forearm. A red welt was beginning to show where Porter had held onto it. She hoped he would be gone by the time she got back.
Making it out before mid-song, Devon rounded the bar when someone snagged her wrist and thrust her hard against the bar, knocking the wind out of her. She could smell Porter's alcohol-laced breath as his weight pinned her under him. One of his grubby hands shot under her shirt while the other wrestled with the button on her pants. "Let's give them a real show."
She struggled to reach the Equalizer, but it remained hidden, out of her grasp. Devon hoisted her knee toward his crotch, but Porter lost his balance and fell backward before she could make contact.
Kerr towered over him. "Get your hands off her."
You can purchase "Asylum Harbor" at:
Amazon UK:
Barnes & Noble:
You can connect with Isla at:
Website: http://www.islagrey.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorIslaGrey
Twitter: https://twitter.com/IslaGrey1
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/islagrey
Thanks so much, Isla, for your time!
Disclaimer: Unless specifically stated on any feature posted, QueenWriter News has not read or reviewed a feature book.
If you're an author and would like to be featured on QueenWriter News, email firstname.lastname@example.com.
Happy Reading!
Saturday, September 12, 2015
Review: The Incidental Spy
The Incidental Spy by Libby Fischer Hellmann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
"The Incidental Spy" by Libby Fischer Hellmann
This is not your typical spy novel but one that engages and engrosses the reader from beginning to end.
Even though bound by love for a man she'll never have, Lena is sent to Chicago to live with her aunt to escape 1935 Nazi Germany. After some time, she falls in love with another, but never forgets her first love. Unfortunately, soon after having a baby, her husband is killed and Lena is left alone to raise their child. She's financially strapped and needs to do what she has to in order to provide for and protect her son.
This is a look into Lena's life when she's forced to become a spy. This book will have you spellbound and Lena is anything but an 'incidental spy.' When the truth is revealed, it will leave you speechless.
I commend Hellmann on a well-written, intriguing novel. I highly recommend it.
Reviewed by Starr Gardinier, author of the Other Side Series
View all my reviews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
"The Incidental Spy" by Libby Fischer Hellmann
This is not your typical spy novel but one that engages and engrosses the reader from beginning to end.
Even though bound by love for a man she'll never have, Lena is sent to Chicago to live with her aunt to escape 1935 Nazi Germany. After some time, she falls in love with another, but never forgets her first love. Unfortunately, soon after having a baby, her husband is killed and Lena is left alone to raise their child. She's financially strapped and needs to do what she has to in order to provide for and protect her son.
This is a look into Lena's life when she's forced to become a spy. This book will have you spellbound and Lena is anything but an 'incidental spy.' When the truth is revealed, it will leave you speechless.
I commend Hellmann on a well-written, intriguing novel. I highly recommend it.
Reviewed by Starr Gardinier, author of the Other Side Series
View all my reviews
Thursday, September 10, 2015
Come Meet Author Andrea Downing
I am pleased to bring to you author Andrea Downing and her latest work: "Loveland," a western historical romance.
When Lady Alexandra Calthorpe returns to the Loveland, Colorado, ranch owned by her father, the Duke, she has little idea of how the experience will alter her future. Headstrong and willful, Alex tries to overcome a disastrous marriage in England and be free of the strictures of Victorian society -- and become independent of men. That is, until Jesse Makepeace saunters back into her life...
Hot-tempered and hot-blooded cowpuncher Jesse Makepeace can't seem to accept that the child he once knew is now the ravishing yet determined woman before him. Fighting rustlers proves a whole lot easier than fighting Alex when he's got to keep more than his temper under control.
Arguments abound as Alex pursues her career as an artist and Jesse faces the prejudice of the English social order. The question is, will Loveland live up to its name?
The light was failing and the birds were settling with their evening calls. Somewhere in the pasture a horse nickered. She sensed Jesse was there, watching, but she never turned as he stood at the fence. She heard him climb over and ease up behind her. He took the coiled rope from her in his left hand and slid his right hand over hers on the swing end, almost forcing her backward into his arms.
She thought of paintings and statues she had seen, imagining his naked arms now, how the muscles would form them into long oblique curves, how he probably had soft downy fair hair on his forearms, how his muscle would slightly bulge as he bent his arm. His voice was soft in her ear, and she could feel his breath on her neck like a whispered secret.
"Gentle-like, right to left, right to left to widen the noose, keep your eye on the post—are you watchin' where we're goin'?"
He made the throw and pulled in the rope to tighten the noose. Alex stood there, his hand still entwined with hers and, for a moment, she wished they could stand like that forever. Then she took her hand away and faced him. For a second he rested his chin on the top of her head, then straightened again and went to get the noose off the post while coiling in the rope. She looked up at him in the fading light and saw nothing but kindness in his face, simplicity and gentleness that was most inviting. A smile spread across her face as he handed her the coiled rope and sauntered away, turning once to look back at her before he opened the gate. Emptiness filled her like a poisoned vapor seeking every corner of her being, and she stood with the rope in her hand listening to the ring of his spurs as his footsteps retreated.
Born in New York, Andrea Downing returned in 2008 from the UK where she lived for most of her life. Having traveled extensively throughout Europe, Africa and Latin America, she now divides her time between NYC and the east end of Long Is., punctuated by frequent journeys out west---the area of the USA she loves best. Her first book, "Loveland," was a finalist for the 2012 RONE Award for Best American Historical and is soon to be re-released by Amazon Encore. Her 2013 short story, "Lawless Love," was also a finalist for the RONE Award as well as the International Digital Awards. "Dearest Darling," a novella, part of The Wild Rose Press Love Letters series, won 'Favorite Hero' along with Honorable Mentions for Favorite Heroine, Short Story and Novel in the Maple Leaf Awards. It has also won The Golden Quill Award for Best Novella. "Dances of the Heart," another full length novel, came out February, 2015.
You can find more about her at:
Website: http://andreadowning.com
Twitter: @andidowning https://twitter.com/AndiDowning
Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=124888740&trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile_pic
AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE: http://www.amazon.com/Andrea-Downing/e/B008MQ0NXS/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0
You can purchase "Loveland" at:
For the eBook, Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Loveland-Andrea-Downing-ebook/dp/B014RUQ746/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1441679216&sr=1-1&keywords=loveland
For the print book, The Wild Rose Press http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=991&zenid=8056610c65a9d0f13b6883882eb494a6
Here are some review snippets:
"Andrea Downing has crafted a masterpiece with Loveland. Her fast-paced romantic western keep readers wondering how the story can ever be resolved...Downing is a strong writer who has written a worthy premiere novel. She handles romantic scenes with flair while showing the nitty-gritty of ranch life in the 1880s. Loveland is packed with action and emotion, leaving the reader wanting more. Loveland is one of those books I hated to have end. A hands-down five-star novel." Mary E. Trimble, Captivating Stories from the American West to West Africa
"…Great storytelling! Even though the happy ending is a given, the journey was much more satisfying because of the snappy dialogue, the pivotal plotting, and the realistic progression of Alex and Jesse's emotional connection. I'm happy to give this book Five Stars!
Lynda Coker, Between the Pages
"Andrea Downing does a very good job of depicting the hard life on a ranch in the late 1800´s as well as the struggles of a high-society woman to gain independence. I like the authors descriptive style and the pace throughout the book is very high, with one dramatic event after the other unfolding...The author does a good job in adding a lot of interesting historical detail and a fun group of supporting characters to give this classic romantic story more depth. I would recommend Loveland for lovers of romance and historical fiction enthusiasts." --Daniella, The TBR Pile
Thank you, Andrea, for allowing QueenWriter to portray such a wonderful author.
Disclaimer: Unless specifically stated on any feature posted, QueenWriter News has not read or reviewed a feature book.
If you're an author and would like to be featured on QueenWriter News, email firstname.lastname@example.com.
Happy Reading!
Thursday, September 3, 2015
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Author Maria Imbalzano is with us today!
I'm pleased to bring to you Maria Imbalzano, author of "Dancing in the Sand."
An accomplished dance major in New York City, Ava Woodward is pursuing her dream of becoming a professional in a national dance company. But a celebratory weekend in Newport, where she meets the man of her fantasies, has devastating consequences that change her life forever.
Brian Stanhope, a Harvard graduate, poised to join his father's company, suffers a brain injury in a horseback riding accident, which affects his memory. He has no recollection of his graduation party weekend or the beautiful dancer who turned his head and stole his heart.
When they reunite eight years later, the magic of their powerful attraction binds them together, but the past holds a secret that even love may not be able to overcome.
You can purchase Maria's newest release at:
For the Kindle:
For the Barnes and Noble Nook:
From All Romance:
From Bookstrand:
From Kobo:
For the Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
About Maria
Maria Imbalzano is a matrimonial lawyer in central New Jersey where she not only uses herlaw degree to navigate her clients through the court system, but her psychology degree to guide them through their personal struggles. While writing motions, legal memoranda, and briefs is fascinating, it pales in comparison to creating memorable characters and taking them on their emotional journeys.
In addition to practicing law and writing fiction, Maria enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters either at home or at the Jersey Shore.
Visit Maria at www.mariaimbalzano.com.
Disclaimer: Unless specifically stated on any feature posted, QueenWriter News has not read or reviewed a feature book.
If you're an author and would like to be featured on QueenWriter News, email email@example.com.
Happy Reading!
Friday, August 28, 2015
Say Hello to Linda Bennett Pennell
Featuring Linda Bennett Pennell...
Who's Linda?
"I have been in love with the past for as long as I can remember," Pennell tells us. "Anything with a history, whether shabby or majestic, recent or ancient, instantly draws me in. I suppose it comes from being part of a large extended family that spanned several generations. Long summer afternoons on my grandmother's porch or winter evenings gathered around her fireplace were filled with stories both entertaining and poignant. Of course being set in the American South, those stories were also peopled by some very interesting characters, some of whom have found their way into my work.
"As for my venture in writing, it has allowed me to reinvent myself. We humans are truly multifaceted creatures, but unfortunately, we tend to sort and categorize each other into neat, easily understood packages that rarely reveal the whole person. Perhaps you, too, want to step out of the box in which you find yourself. I encourage you to look at the possibilities and imagine. Be filled with childlike wonder in your mental wanderings. Envision what might be, not simply what is. Let us never forget, all good fiction begins when someone says to her or himself, "Let's pretend." "
Pennell resides in the Houston area with one sweet husband and one adorable German Shorthaired Pointer, who is quite certain she's a little girl. Her favorite quote regarding her professional passion: "History is filled with the sound of silken slippers going downstairs and wooden shoes coming up." Voltaire
That said, Linda shows that she is very multifaceted. "Casablanca: Appointment at Dawn" is one example of her multidimensional persona. Other than her love of the past, she obviously loves the written word, but she can sure pen it. Here's a little about "Casablanca: Appointment at Dawn":
Casablanca, 1943: a viper's nest of double agents and spies where OSS Officer Kurt Heinz finds his skill in covert operations pushed to the limit. Allied success in North Africa and the fate of the First Allied Conference—perhaps the outcome of the war—hang on Kurt's next mission. The nature of his work makes relationships impossible. Nonetheless, he is increasingly torn between duty and the beautiful girl who desperately needs his protection and help.
Sarah Barrett, U.S. Army R.N., is finished with wartime romance. Determined to protect her recently broken heart, she throws all of her time and energy into caring for her patients, but when she is given a coded message by a mysterious dying civilian, she is sucked into a vortex of danger and intrigue that threatens her very survival. The one person who can help Sarah is Kurt Heinz, a man with too many secrets to be trusted.
Pennell gives us a taste or two of this novel:
Excerpt I
Kurt watched in dismay as the man in gray picked up his fedora and rose from the table next to the one recently vacated by the two women. This had to be his contact. The man had watched Kurt on the sly since he arrived at the restaurant. Moreover, the guy matched the description right down to the red pocket square in his suit breast pocket and the thin, pale scar running along his left jawline. Making a quick decision, Kurt pushed his chair back and tossed some cash on the table.
"It's been interesting guys, but I'm calling it a night. Use this to cover my tab."
"What's the rush, Heinz? We haven't even ordered dinner."
"I guess my sins are catching up with me. It's return to quarters and bed for me."
"You headed back with us on the return flight tomorrow?"
"Nope, I'm here with the Old Man for the duration. You boys have a good trip."
The street was nearly deserted when Kurt stepped out onto its glistening concrete surface. Misty rain created halos around the sparse street lamps and obscured most objects more than a few feet distant. Only the two women, Sarah and Agnes, stood under an umbrella waiting for a taxi. Kurt watched them from the restaurant's portico. Focused on their conversation, they seemed oblivious to anyone behind them.
Glancing to his right, Kurt saw his man in gray scurrying toward the cross street. He stepped onto the sidewalk and crept along a good twenty paces behind. When his quarry slowed at the corner and looked back over his shoulder, Kurt stepped into the shadow of a doorway behind the taxi stand and waited. If this guy didn't want to make contact, he wouldn't appreciate being followed.
Excerpt II
"I'm Heinz. What do you want?"
"Oh. It's you."
"From the restaurant on New Year's Eve."
Kurt was silent for a moment, then it came back tohim. "I remember. Sarah, right? You're the girl who refused to dance with me."
A red flush crawled from her throat onto the apples of her cheeks. "Yes. I'm sorry if I was rude."
"I've been cut dead before. I got over it."
The girl's eyes glittered. "I'm sure you did. Are you going to keep me standing here on the doorstep for everyone to see?"
"Why? I'm not expecting company. Would it be a problem?"
"It certainly might if the people who tore my apartment apart followed me here."
Kurt looked into her eyes with complete attention for the first time since opening the door. Whatever had happened to this girl, she looked terrified and angry.
Not a particularly good combination for the covert activities he and Phelps were up to.
Kurt made a quick decision. He stepped back and pulled the door wide while raising his voice. "You better come inside and tell me why you think what happened to your apartment has anything to do with me."
When they stepped into the living area, Phelps had disappeared. Kurt gestured toward the sofa and the girl sat down.
Propping himself on the sofa's arm, he looked down into her frightened eyes.
"Now tell me how I can help you, Miss, uh…"
"Barrett, Sarah. US Army. RN."
"Well, Nurse Barrett, what can I do for you?"
The girl stuck her hand in her coat pocket and whipped out a scrap of paper that she waved in his face.
"By telling me what's on this paper and why it's so important that somebody took a knife to my furniture."
Books by Linda Bennett Pennell:
Al Capone at the Blanche Hotel from Soul Mate Publishing
Confederado do Norte from Soul Mate Publishing
When War Came Home from Real Cypress Press
Casablanca: Appointment at Dawn from The Wild Rose Press August 28
To learn more about Pennell and her works:
Website: http://www.lindapennell.com/
Twitter: @LindaPennell
Buy link for Al Capone at the Blanche Hotel: http://amzn.to/16qq3k5
Buy link for Confederado do Norte: http://amzn.com/B00LMN5OMI
Buy link for When War Came Home: http://amzn.com/B010RXNZRO
Disclaimer: Unless specifically stated on any feature posted, QueenWriter News has not read or reviewed a feature book.
If you're an author and would like to be featured on QueenWriter News, email email@example.com.
Posted by Starr Smith at 12:01 AM 9 comments: Links to this post
Labels: al capone, author, confederado norte, feature, historical, history, linda bennett, linda bennett pennell, linda pennell, queenwriter, starr gardinier, when war came home, wild rose press
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text:
Many hire full-time professional fundraisers to seek foundation and government grants or relationships with repeat donors, intangible benefits that can go beyond immediate fundraising goals.
As for telemarketing, Mike Smith, chief operating officer of New Jersey-based Charity Navigator, suggests that when donors receive a call, they can just hang up and cut a check directly to the nonprofit.
The debate over nonprofit fundraising costs is nothing new, but with information increasingly available on the Web, consumers are in a much stronger position to give wisely.
The San Francisco AIDS Foundation publicly and angrily parted ways with its commercial fundraiser, Pallatto Teamworks, in 2001 due in part to a dispute over how much the company charged to operate the California AIDS Ride. The charity has since created its own fundraising arm, steadily improving its rate of return from an average of 54 percent over the past seven years to 66.5 percent last year.
The foundation uses another company, MZA Events, to manage its annual AIDS Walkathon, which has averaged a healthy 63 percent return since 1999 with improved results over each of the last three years.
But officials with the SF AIDS Foundation believe telemarketing has enabled it to achieve greater public awareness. It also began moving the task in-house during the past six months and anticipates greater savings.
"Every dime we save in production is a dime that can go to our clients and our programs and our services," said Dave Ellison, spokesperson for the foundation. "We're always extremely aware of how important it is to keep the costs down because we see the benefits every day in the lives of our clients."
Also from this author
Newly available documents expose what happened to a man shot 16 times by SFPD officers two years ago
Nancy Pelosi is raising millions of dollars, but keeping very little for her own reelection campaign


text:
Air & Climate Companies in Iran
Micromaterials Pvt. Ltd.
based in BANGALORE, INDIA
Micromaterials (P) Ltd. is a Bangalore based company has partnered with Indian Institute Of Science - Bangalore. We focus on bringing innovative nano and micro technologies and materials catalysts. The new generation catalysts are the result of a radically new patented process. Micromaterials (P) Ltd. has the exclusive commercialization and marketing rights for this ...
Kingood Machinery Co., Ltd.
based in Tainan, TAIWAN
Kingood Machinery Co., Ltd. specializes in manufacturing of Roots Blower, including Re-circulated and cooling vertical type Roots Blower, Submersible type Roots Blower, and Traditional Belt type Roots Blower.Our patented invention of re-circulated design has made us the pioneer manufacturer of Roots Blower in Taiwan and a long-time partner of many waste water treatment ...
Desiccant Technologies Group
based in Vilnius, LITHUANIA
Desiccant Technologies Group – is a European high quality and technology desiccant dehumidifier manufacturer. Dehumidifiers are intended to meet industrial and commercial needs for dry air. The heart of the unit is the high moisture absorbing capacity rotor.Our desiccant dehumidifiers are well proven and used in the following areas:Food industry (confectionery, meat ...
Huadong Blower
based in CHINA
professional manufacturer of roots blower, also providing centrifugal fan, ring blower, rotary blower for several industries, such as sewage treatment blower, pneumatic conveying, cement industry, electric power, etc.we can provide you high quality products with competitive price.
POSPISIL & ILG Associated Engineers
based in Münchenstein, SWITZERLAND
Pospisil & Ilg - Associated Engineers is an independent company of engineers and consultants offering a broad range of professional services in the fields of tunnel ventilation, tunnel safety and aerodynamics. Offices in Switzerland provide services worldwide.
Waterco Limited
based in Rydalmere, Sydney, AUSTRALIA
Established in 1981, Waterco is an Australian Stock Exchange listed company involved in the development, manufacture and distribution of fibreglass sand filters and thermoplastic cartridge and bag filters as well as thermoplastic pumps and various water treatment equipment. Waterco currently distributes its products to over 40 countries via its branches in Australia, New ...
SPS 1999 GROUp
based in THAILAND
SPS services landfill 140 project regardless gascollection systems Thailand has increased in rates of consumption and production which eventually result in significant amounts of wastes that the country needs to deal with technical knowledge and ability landfill gas collection systems.
Bisan Pars Co. Ltd.
based in Tehran, IRAN
Provider of Environmental Analyzers and services. We do sales and after sales for HORIBA, BOREAL LASER, SYSTEA and other well known Environmental related companies.We also provide special petroleum products such as sulfur in oil analyzers or oil content (oil in water) analyzers.
Tuthill Corporation - Tuthill Vacuum & Blower Systems
based in Springfield, MISSOURI (USA)
Tuthill Vacuum & Blower Systems, manufacturer of Kinney vacuum pumps and M-D Pneumatics™ blowers & vacuum boosters, is a leader in the design and manufacture of high performance, reliable positive displacement blowers, mechanical vacuum pumps, vacuum boosters and engineered systems ready to install and run.Our vacuum pumps and pressure blowers can provide vacuum as low as ...
Combustion Tech Pvt Ltd.
based in Pune, INDIA
Engineering company based in India providing the following systems, spares and services* Gas flaring systems for Chemical plants.* Gas Flare for Steel plants.* Biogas flares & enclosed combustors * Burners for biogas and lean low calorific value gases * Knock out drums and water seals * Drip traps and condensate / moisture traps * Flame arresters and other related ...


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I do so AGREE with you about that front bumper/spoiler. ANY contact with a normal parking cement stop is a NIGHTMARE. DON't get NEAR them, as they are the right exact height to "catch" the front spoiler/bumper and ruin the front low bumper/spoiler.
WHAT were they thinking? In Germany are there no parking "stop" or dips in the road? I can't recall..when I went I was on a tour bus!!!!
I ONLY use mine for short trips "out" with the top down. ONLY love it because it's a convertible, sharp, flashy, sassy and grips the road...albeit a bit "too" much so the ride is tad bumpy-must be those LOW profile tires and chrome rims!!!!
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KwikTool® Ratcheting Cable Cutter
Item # WX2-193664
- Google+
- Details & Specs
Fast, powerful, easy KwikTool® Ratcheting Cable Cutter is PRICED LESS !
Here's a Cutter that treats cables like butter! It's a dynamic hard worker for electrical work, cutting copper and aluminum cable like nobody's business.
Its fast ratcheting mechanism does it for light and heavy cutting with simple one-handed operation. Great for tight spaces, too!A cut above:
- Cleanly cuts copper up to 600 MCM, aluminum up to 1,000 MCM
- 11" long for good leverage, with 2" jaw opening
- 1,000V insulated, comfort-cushioned handles (not meant for live circuits, but extra protection). Not suited for steel cable.
Rugged and ready! Grab yours ONLINE today!
- Reviews
KwikTool Ratcheting Cable Cutter is rated out of 5 by 1.Rated 5 out of 5 by HAROLD from A professional grade product that will perform just as advertised and more. Works like it will last me the rest of my career. I use it in URD cable splicing and termination on power kine that have been in ground for years and it hasn't failed me yet.Date published: 2011-01-30
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