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SAN JOSE, CA -- (Marketwire) -- 11/01/12 -- OCZ Technology Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: OCZ), a leading provider of high-performance solid-state drives (SSDs) for computing devices and systems, today announced that Ralph Schmitt, Chief Executive Officer, will present at the Piper Jaffray Technology, Media and Telecommunications Conference, to be held at the Le Parker Meridien Hotel in New York on Wednesday, November 7, 2012 at 12:30pm eastern time. A live webcast, as well as a replay, will be available on the investor relations events section of OCZ website at www.ocztechnology.com.
About OCZ Technology Group, Inc.
Founded in 2002, San Jose, CA-based OCZ Technology Group, Inc. (OCZ) is a global leader in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of high-performance solid-state storage solutions and premium computer components. Offering high performance solid-state drives (SSDs), OCZ provides SSDs in a variety of form factors and interfaces (i.e. PCIe, SAS and SATA) to address both client and enterprise applications. Having developed firmware and controller platforms, to virtualization and endurance extending technologies, the company delivers vertically integrated solutions enabling transformational approaches to how digital data is captured, stored, accessed, analyzed and leveraged by customers. For more information, please visit: www.ocztechnology.com.
Investor Contact:
Bonnie Mott
Senior Manager of Investor Relations
Email Contact
Press Contact:
Scott Harlin
Director of Marketing Communications - Enterprise
(408) 733-8400
Email Contact


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What is RM Cash
"Customer service is priority #1 at Rocky Mountain ATV/MC. We value our customers and strive to be the best shopping experience- when you buy from us, you are buying lifetime service."
-Dan Thomas, CEO and Founder
We take pride in offering no hassle returns. In the event of a return, please call, email or chat with us to receive a solution to the problem. For apparel that doesn't fit quite right, Click here to see our Fit Guaranteed Program.
We will stand behind all products we sell with regards to manufacturing defects in workmanship and material. Most products are limited to the manufacturer's warranty. However, we will do everything in our power to take care of the problem.
Each review submitted enters you into a $100 gift card monthly drawing, and a $500 gift card quarterly drawing!
Comments On Jun 06, 2015:I was surprised at how sticky the filter oil is. The cleaner mixed with warm water seemed to work well for cleaning filter.
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Comments On Nov 29, 2014:Went on easy Let it dry put it in few mouth Later open the Air box oil on the bottom of the air box the filter was dry And not protected.
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Comments On Jun 15, 2014:Same as no toil evolution. Water cleanup is nice.
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Comments On Jan 30, 2014:Awesome stuff been using this for the last 4 or so years with no problem I highly recommend it
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Comments On Feb 21, 2013:This product it so awsone and cleans very good and easily... definately has a great price that anyone can afford and iis a major part in keeping you atv or dirt bike running good and helps you bike run strong for years to come.. this product works and is cheep enough to clean you bike after every weekend ride and buy another bottle mabey in a month or so... good product after you try it youll love the price and most importantly the product
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subset: commoncrawl


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2012 Filmmaker Workshop Tour featuring Philip Bloom - Auckland
- Sun 18 Mar 2012, 10:00am — 5:00pm
- Auckland, Academy Cinema, Central Library Bdng, 44 Lorne Street
Following the success of Philip Bloom's sold out 2011 DSLR Workshop Tour, RØDE Microphones is very excited to be bringing Philip back in 2012 for six exclusive filmmaking workshops across Australia and New Zealand.
The day-long workshops will focus on both DSLR and the latest large-chip camcorders, and include a dedicated audio segment with Australian sound icon Ric Creaser.
There will be prize packs and give aways at each session, as well as the opportunity to meet with and learn from the experiences of two highly respected creatives. For a limited time, early bird tickets will be AU$120, increasing to AU$170 after December 31st.
Philip Bloom
Cinematographer, DOP, DSLR Guru
Arguably the world's foremost authority on Digital SLR video, Philip Bloom is truly a multi-skilled filmmaker having over twenty years experience as a cinematographer, director, editor and sound engineer.
His short films have garnered international acclaim, and commercially he has worked for Lucasfilm, Discovery, Sky News, Fox, BBC, Apple and Microsoft amongst many more.
As a pioneer in the DSLR video revolution Philip has been responsible for guiding hundreds of thousands of filmmakers through the pitfalls of DSLR video, helping them obtain previously unimaginable results from such compact and affordable cameras and accessories.
Visit Philip's blog at www.philipbloom.net.
Ric Creaser
Broadcast Sound Engineer, Audio Guru
With a resume that includes such iconic and successful television programs as Willessee at 7, Beyond 2000, Water Rats, The Great Outdoors, 60 Minutes, The 7:30 Report and Top Gear Australia, Ric Creaser is truly one of the country's most succesful and respected broadcast audio engineers.
Ric has spent over 25 years specialising in documentary and reality style recording that requires a "run & gun" approach, without the luxury of second takes or a large sound team.
His audio talents don't stop there however; Ric is also a microphone inventor, having designed the innovative RØDE PinMic microphone, now used in professional film and television production.
At the 2012 DSLR Workshop Tour Ric will be complementing Philip with a dedicated 90 minute audio curriculum, guiding the audience through the basics of audio, different approaches to recording sound, and practical demonstrations of common audio scenarios from pre to post production.
Click here to register...
View all RØDE Microphones here...
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text: The BIG FISH Jul 5, 2010 20:31:38 GMT -5 Quote Select PostDeselect PostLink to PostMemberGive GiftBack to Top Post by jrstrines on Jul 5, 2010 20:31:38 GMT -5 I was curious to see what was Homelites biggest monsters. I am seeing a 114 cc in a unibody style (such as the 2100s), was there any bigger? What size did Homelite get up to in geardrives?


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Tool News
MM (Maskfile Converter)
Please take note of the following problem in using mask file converter MM for Mitsubishi microcomputers:
- Mask files may not correctly be generated using IAR Systems' cross-tool
- Versions Concerned
- Descriptions
IAR Systems' cross-tool may generate hexadecimal data files in Intel HEX format with more than one end record being output. Then, these data files cannot be converted to mask files by MM without errors.
- 2.1 Example
- In Intel HEX format, any end record is represented by a pattern of
- If a hexadecimal data file is as shown below, it cannot correctly be converted to a mask file by MM.
----------------------------------------------------------------------- :02000002D0002C : : :04FFFC0074050D007B :00000001FF <-- The first end record :00000001FF <-- The second end record -----------------------------------------------------------------------
- Workaround
- This problem will be circumvented in either of the following ways:
- (1) Place your order of masked ROM by using EPROM, not a mask file generated by MM, if the Mask ROM Confirmation Form for the ordered MCU allows EPROM to be used as one of pattern media.
- (2) Modify the hexadecimal data file such a way that only one end record exists in the file, as shown below. The sales agent of your IAR Systems' cross-tool should be consulted for the verification and validation of the modification.
---------------------------------------------------------------------- :02000002D0002C : : :04FFFC0074050D007B :00000001FF <-- The valid end record :00000001FF <-- The end record to be deleted ----------------------------------------------------------------------
- Schedule of Fixing Problem
In our next release we plan to give you a warning if any records exist after the first (valid) end record in a hexadecimal data file and to make MM generate a correct mask file by automatically neglecting the above records provided you check that the data file has been successfully generated.


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This time, we got the following crossword puzzle clue: "What Cesar awards honor". Next we will look for a few extra hints for What César awards honor, 4 letters entry". Finally, using all gathered information, we will solve What Cesar awards honor crossword definition and get the final answer.
Similar crossword puzzle definitions:
Film in Cannes;
Art movie theater;
Film, in France;
Try this 4 letters answer: CINE
Please note! There may be multiple solutions to a specific crossword puzzle definition. We apologize in advance, if there is another solution. Please send it to us and we will add it too, ASAP!


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For my 1 year Anniverseary post – raw chocolate superfood protein bar – giveaway entries, I asked for comments on what you thought of the blog, what drew you to it and anything else. I no idea that of some of the heartfelt words would be so beautiful. I had the sweetest and most loving comments from some of you that just moved me to tears and made my heart swell.
I love doing giveaways, but wish that everyone could win. It's tough picking only one name from the pot. YOU are ALL winners in my eyes though.
I am honored to announce the winner:
Congratulations! I will be in touch with you shortly.
Thank you so much, EVERYONE, for all your support and encouragement and I, in turn, will continue to provide YOU with fantastic, healthy, healing recipes along with fun, inspirational and educational posts. Feel free to be more open and communicative with me here.
Anyone else who is interested in trying these wonderful superfood protein bars, feel free to check out the testimonials so far. Let me know if you would like to purchase some of these little beauties by dropping me an email. You will find more information and details on how to purchase here.
So, CHEERS to YOU! Here's to many more years together!
♥ For more healthy living and organic gardening tips, quick recipes, what I'm eating and inspirational quotes, LOVE me on Facebook and Subscribe to my YouTube Channel. Lots of fun stuff!


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I call the police idiot's for having to use the robot and a hundred police cars just to arrest a man that DIDN'T have a gun. It really...
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Andre Dida is no longer the head coach for Mauricio 'Shogun' Rua.
The former Chute Boxe team mates had been working together since 2009 and the partnership was sucessful in 2010, when Mauricio won the UFC light-heavyweight title against Lyoto Machida.
Dida announced today that he won't be training Shogun for the upcoming rematch with Rogerio Nogueira at UFC 161 in Canada.
"I would like to communicate to everybody that I am not Mauricio Shogun's coach anymore. Our contract had expired in his last fight and we didn't get to an agreement for his fight versus Minotouro," he wrote on Facebook.
"I wish Shogun good luck and my work continues strong at Evolucao Thai. Thank you everybody."
Dida's coaching of Shogun had been a controversial topic in recent years. One of the most vocal critics was Murilo 'Ninja', brother of Shogun, who actually left the Rua-founded UDL team because of the fall-out.
How much influence Ninja has had on his brother in terms of getting new coaching staff we don't know, but he certainly won't be sad to see Dida out of the picture. Ninja said that Dida used to run a poor training camp and used to allow Shogun to be lazy when he wanted, which was quite often.
Shogun and Andre Dida part ways
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I'm missing a 3rd key of the realm..
My idea is to make a 'generals' file.
It will mostly compose of lv 4 + monk + lapierre, and once you have 3/4 units on the field (how long can you stall?) you play 3 key of realms and start killing stuff.
Key of the realm, the OP Raise shield.


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Do you need to record the time you work on a project, or even a series of tasks you work on? There are many good, free tools available with varying degrees of functionality to suit just about any of your needs.
While the ability to have time recording to multiple tasks simultaneously is available in many of the programs reviewed, the true benefit of this is debatable.
Some people claim they have the ability to multi-task. The reality is, we may be task switching, but we are not truly multi-tasking, or working on more than one thing at any time. It is impossible for a programmer, for example, to be editing code in one window and debugging in another simultaneously. You could be running a long compile on a large application in a different window, but that is the computer doing the compile in another window without your intervention.
Is it reasonable to be charging time to a customer for compiling when you are not actually doing any work, while working on something entirely different, possibly even for the same customer? I don't believe so, that seems a lot like "double dipping" to me. However, not everyone will agree, and that is why multi-time recording may be a feature to you.
Go straight to the Quick Selection Guide
Task Coach is my personal top choice for features alone. It is an excellent task management and time recording application, and the most complete and fully featured application reviewed here. Task Coach goes much further than simple time-keeping. It is a fully featured task management package with the ability to create many levels of sub-tasks within tasks, and customizable color coded categories for different tasks. Tasks can have priorities, due dates and alarms set, and you can very easily track the time spent working on any task by simply right clicking it and then selecting either Start or Stop Tracking Effort. Time tracked in sub tasks is totaled in the highest level task, and logged in individual sub tasks. Entire trees of tasks and sub tasks can be marked as completed or uncompleted. Detailed descriptions, notes, budget and revenue tracking, file attachments and even date based reminders are all supported.
While the authors list Task Coach as "Alpha state software", with cautions to back data up frequently, I have found Task Coach to be stable and reliable, as well as very easy to use. Data is stored in XML format so it can be easily backed up and extracted, if necessary. Like TimeTool, Task Coach will continue to log time even if you shut the program down, so if you need to conserve the memory it uses while working, you can start the application, start tracking time, and shut it down. Start the application again later and stop tracking time and you will have all the detail you need. Two things that other applications do that would make good enhancements to Task Coach are the ability to export to CSV or other text files for easy import into a spreadsheet, and the ability to create reports and graphs of time spent on various projects without drilling into the Task Coach detail.
ToDoList developed by AbstractSpoon is a serious contender for the top pick as it offers many interesting and unique options. A few of them in particular stand out, such as the ability to import from and export to multiple file formats including an Excel spreadsheet, Free Mind (mind mapping) and other similar software. Something else I particularly like with AbstractSpoon's ToDoList is that it comes as a single zip file containing everything it needs, with no formal installation procedure required, and when first run, it asks if you want to use the registry or a .ini file for portability which is an important feature to me. This is a serious contender for my top pick recommendation. More details will be coming as I test it further and report back.
Project Timer is worth a look if all you need is a simple utility to record time against different projects. It's truly basic, not much more than a series of glorified stopwatches, but it's simple to use and does exactly the job required. Whether you want to record the time you spend on just one task or multiple projects, you will probably find this little program very handy for it's simplicity alone. You can view the time spent on the project for the current day, week, month, or total effort. There is even a nice graphical view of time logged, customizable to display the current, or three previous weeks of time periods with different graph styles—histogram, line, or both.
Cratchit.org TimeTool is a good simple alternative. It's very lightweight, has an extremely easy to use interface and can save to CSV files for import into Excel. It easily handles multiple projects, and only needs to be running when you clock on or off. Only one task can be accumulating time at any time while running. Starting a time collection on a task is as easy as clicking on it, and stopping is equally easy, click the stop button, or click another task to start it accumulating time.
TimeTracker is an interesting alternative that has a lot of merit. It may appeal to many people for the simple and customizable automation aspect alone. It takes a different approach and tracks time spent in all open windows, with time accumulating for each individual running application, based on which window is currently active. It even records system idle and system locked times. You can create your own tasks, just like all the other applications, and though, the behavior is a little quirky, you can start and stop the custom task timers independently of the actual window time tracking.
Rules allow you to create custom tasks and define rules so that for example, you designate all email, calendar and instant messaging window activity as administration, and all putty terminal emulation as Unix support. All time from those windows is then automatically accumulated into those tasks. You can double click the custom administration category to start the timer running, then switch to a putty terminal window, and it will accumulate time to both custom Administration and Unix Support tasks. When you then open a window that is in another custom task, such as email or calendar, the Unix task stops accumulating time, and when you switch back to a putty terminal session, the Administration task also stops accumulating time.
I think this is simply a bug in allowing the user to start a custom task then switch to a window in another custom task, but this could be a useful bug for some people wanting to double book time.
The real beauty of this application's automation system is that if you define tasks and rules carefully, you can simply switch tasks and never have to do any clock starting and stopping. In addition to the full process list display, there is also a collapsible/expandable tree view where you can drill into the major tasks, e.g. WINWORD.EXE and see a list of all processes related to that process, or drill into the Administration custom task and see what all your admin activity consisted of. The third tab titled Chart shows a nice colored pie graph with a percentage breakdown of all time spent on each task. Each time you exit, the application offers to save its data to CSV format, and appends to the existing data so all historical data can be manipulated in Excel or Open Office Calc, but only current data since start is show on the current application display.
Zanami Time Tracker is another simple time recording utility, with multiple tasks able to be timed in a single instance of the program, which reduces the memory foot-print for those who want to track multiple times simultaneously.
The program is very simple, and can even be completely terminated, and when started again, elapsed time is recorded as though the program had never shut down at all, enabling saving that extra little bit of memory when needed. The program is very easy to use, but what totally killed it for me was that there is no export to CSV, text or any other capability, and while you can view the history of all dates and times recorded against a task, you can't even copy and paste that information into another application. The data file is in a proprietary binary format, so that you can't access data that way either, and to top it off, if you mistype when creating a new task, there is no way to rename the task. I did try hacking the binary file with a hex editor and successfully changed a single mistyped character, but adding or removing characters corrupts the data file so all your recorded time is unusable.
While this might be a nice simple utility for basic time recording, its usefulness is extremely limited by having no practical way to extract or use the data short of writing it down, or typing it by hand into something else like Excel or Open Office Calc.
Still under consideration and subject to review:
- Another alternative suggested is an online service, Freshbooks which by the nature of the way it works does not completely meet my criteria for a 'best free application' as it requires a constant Internet connection. This may, however, be adequate for some people, though the free access components are limited, and of course users are encouraged to use the for-a-fee access components for additional functionality. A number of separate download are available at a cost, at least one of which allows offline time-keeping that can later feed back to the Freshbooks online application. One feature of this service that may appeal to some people is that Freshbooks also provides abilities to generate, and mail invoices directly from their site, all for a fee of course, though a limited trial is available. More details will be coming as I test it further and report back (update August 25, 2008).
- RescueTime - is a new suggestion. What I have managed to look at so far, it seems to be similar to Freshbooks in its web interface with an agent reporting back what applications have been used and for how long. More details will be coming as I test it further and report back. (update August 25, 2008).
- ManicTime - is another new suggestion. I have taken a look, but I have not yet been able to install Manic Time as my sandbox (test) PC is running Windows 2000 Pro, and Manic time requires the .NET 3.5 framework and Windows XP with Service pack 2. This makes it somewhat limited for many people however, I will try it on an XP and Vista computer as soon as I am able to. (update August 25, 2008).
These will be covered as soon as possible. Please remember, these categories are all maintained by volunteers and many of us cover multiple categories so we can only promise to get to them as soon as time allows.
You might want to check out these articles too:
Task Coach
Portability is determined with an option to save config in .ini file upon first running of the program. A range of plugins is freely available, including a PocketPC viewer and an MS Project 2002 converter.
Project Timer
Cratchit.org TimeTool
Zanami Time Tracker
This software category is in need of an editor. If you are interested in taking it over then check out this page for more details. You can then contact us from that page or by clicking here.
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I just discovered the freeware time tracker software Grindstone.
It looks very basic, but it has more features then you would expect.
In my opinion it certainly deserves to be mentioned in this list.
I just discovered the freeware time tracker software Grindstone.


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That looks great. Good Job.
So this is my first map using GIMP. I used this tutorial NewbieDM Tutorial: The Battlemap, a guest post by Jonathan Roberts « www. Newbie DM .com and I'm quite pleased with the result so far. I'll probably add a border and some more shading and an exit to level two (I'm a GIMP-noob)
That looks great. Good Job.
Good work! That looks like a pretty successful first map.
Yes, very nice. You managed to get that GW look to it as well. Welcome to the Guild, and have some rep for such a great first map!
Ravandil you deserve a little rep for that first post!! nice work, keep postin!!! We look forward to seeing the progress on this and future maps, good journeys
Excellent map, nice textures.
My Battlemaps Gallery http://www.cartographersguild.com/al...p?albumid=3407
Looks great, and welcome to the Guild!
Great work friends...
"Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."-Confucius
Old map and Historic map


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As difficult as recent years have been for the Neepawa Natives, this weekend is all about optimism.
With encouraging signs coming off the ice — the team's season-ticket drive has hit 220 sold, already topping last season's total — the Natives hope to add some key pieces for their on-ice future in tomorrow's Manitoba Junior Hockey League bantam draft.
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June 14, 2014
The Roar of Europe's Protest Vote
George Will, Washington Post
The Associated Press
Opposition to the E.U. is a worthy cause that unfortunately has been embraced by, and might become the property of, political parties tainted by disreputable motives and members. That xenophobia, anti-Semitism and other acrid aromas of Europe's past are today present in corners of the continent is an indictment of the E.U.'s — and of Europe's major parties' — disregard of the legitimate concerns of decent people dismayed by the damage the E.U. is doing to democracy and freedom.
TAGGED: Europe


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Topic: Serious Discussion / Does this judge have the right to do this?
Originally posted by vikaTae:Originally posted by Horizans:
We're not talking about people choosing to be out just for the sake of it, we're talking about people being able to be honest about basic parts of their lives that everyone else frequently talks about.
I don't know about you, but I don't tend to discuss in the cafeteria, what my partner and I got up to in 'bedroom gymnastics' the previous night. Perhaps you do, but most people allude to it, they don't 'frequently talk about it', nor talk in any real level of detail.
Who said anything about what you do in the bedroom? There's a lot more than being married/in a long term relationship than that. I find it interesting that your mind automatically goes to sex.
Have you ever asked someone if they were married? Ever heard someone mention that they have a husband or wife? Or mention that they're planning on going on vacation for their anniversary? A gay person could lose their entire military career over something like that.


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City could top its all-time mark of 51 straight days with no rain
SEATTLE Not too many people are complaining in typically soggy Seattle, but the city is on a surprising run of dry weather.
The gauge at Sea-Tac Airport — where Seattle's official weather statistics are gathered — has gone through August without a drop of rain. The current dry spell could challenge the 51-day record set in 1951. The last rain at the airport was 0.04 inches on July 22.
In one way, Seattle has already reached a milestone, according to the National Weather Service. By staying dry through Friday, the city broke the record of 0.01 inches of precipitation, which has happened just three times since 1891.
There's no more reason for the dry August than there was for the wet June, said weather service meteorologist Allen Kam.
It's just the way things go, he said, "Streaks happen."
The dry stretch is just fine for people heading outdoors for Labor Day weekend. The 200,000 people expected to gather by the Space Needle for the annual Bumbershoot Festival, a three-day music and arts fair named after an old-timey word for "umbrella," can expect sunny skies and highs around 70.
"You can't always count on good weather — this is Seattle," said Seattle Center spokeswoman Deborah Daoust.
Gathering clouds could lower temperatures and bring a chance of showers in some other parts of the state for the last holiday of the summer, but forecasters don't see any Seattle rain storms on the horizon.
"It has a decent chance of lasting a bunch into September," said Kam, who is based in Seattle. "We could certainly be sneaking up on the 51."
Though the summer has been dry, for the calendar year, precipitation in the city is about 5 inches above normal, Kam said. He added that rain watchers follow the "water year," which starts in October, and on that calendar, Seattle is just about 1 inch above average for this time in the year.
"That brings it whole heck of a lot closer to normal," Kam said.
The city's dry summers are often overlooked because of its rainy reputation, said University of Washington atmospheric sciences professor Cliff Mass. Seattle can attribute its damp status to the persistent drizzle and overcast skies that shroud the city much of the rest of the year.
"We are one of the driest places in the country in midsummer," Mass said. "People don't hear about that, but it's true."


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April 30, 2016
The Pitt County Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees has slated $42 million for expansion of the Children's Hospital.
"This is a great news for every parent, grandparent or loved one of a child in our community and region," said Dave McRae, chief executive officer of University Health Systems of Eastern Carolina. "These families need and deserve a healing environment that is especially focused on the specific treatment of children?s illnesses."
The Kids Immunosuppressed Special Unit, or KISSU, is a critical part of the expansion. The unit helps kids with cancer, blood disorders, sickle-cell disease and kidney disorders.
Expanded pediatric services are also included in the expansion, including special-care nursery beds for infants, a separate area for sedation procedures, and a Ronald McDonald suite for families.
Officials hope to break ground in 2011. Funding for the expansion will come primarily from community and regional donations.
"Our Children's Hospital serves the entire eastern third of the state,"
said Dr. Ronald Perkin, medical director, UHS Children's Hospital and chairman, Department of Pediatrics, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. "We have a huge role to play in being able to treat all of the children of eastern North Carolina. This is the place where miracles happen."
Click Here to access the online Public Inspection File
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Join us in IC Square on Thursday, April 6, at 3:00 p.m. to celebrate the generosity of spirit of Ithaca College students, faculty, and staff.
At this year's Celebration of Service you can:
*Pick up your service pin and tell us about your good works this year.
*Watch the annual Service Slide show.
*See a presentation on the Alternative Spring Break trip to New Orleans.
*Hear the announcement of the William Scoones Community Service Award winners.
Special celebrity scoopers will serve up ice cream to all participants as we gather to celebrate our community efforts. We hope to see you there.
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Areas of practice include but are not limited to:
633 1st Street
P.O. Box 533
Sergeant Bluff, IA 51054 712.823.1024 (office) 712.823.1025 (fax) firstname.lastname@example.com
Buchheit Law, PLC improves lives through strategic planning and a straightforward approach to solving significant legal issues. The firm creates wills and trusts which are results-driven depending upon the client's situation and values (e.g. asset protection; maintaining control of affairs; distribution of wealth; probate avoidance; child guardianship; special needs beneficiaries; etc). In family law cases, Buchheit Law guides clients through premarital agreements, divorce, child support, custody, and modification issues. The firm also has experience in and regularly helps clients form businesses, draft contracts, negotiate business transactions, collect and secure debt for business creditors.
Serving: Iowa, Nebraska & South Dakota -Sergeant Bluff; Sioux City; Salix; Sloan; Onawa; Le Mars; Moville; Mapleton; Hinton; Orange City; Sioux Center; Council Bluffs; Spencer; South Sioux City; Dakota City; Jefferson; Ponca; Norfolk; O'Neill; Omaha; Dakota Dunes; Elk Point; Jefferson; North Sioux City; Vermillion; Sioux Falls; & surrounding areas.
Our goal in every case is to provide value for your values, whether that means helping you obtain a divorce, modify child support payments, create a Will, Trust, or Power of Attorney, probate and administer an estate of a loved one, or establish a new business. Like any other professional service, clients want to know how much the service will cost. Buchheit Law answers that question up front so clients spend less time worrying about monthly statements, and invest their energy in working with the attorney to accomplish case goals.


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Missouri looks ahead to Alabama after disappointing home loss
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
COLUMBIA, Mo. — Saturday's loss to Vanderbilt was tough enough for Missouri to swallow. On paper it was Missouri's best chance to date for a Southeastern Conference victory.
But with No. 1 Alabama coming to Columbia on Saturday, the Tigers must forget and turn their attention quickly as an 0-4 conference record stares them in the face.
"Everyone went home and our coach talked to us and said learn from it and move on, and that's kind of what we did," left tackle Elvis Fisher said.
Immediately following the game, yelling could be heard from the Missouri locker room, the sign of a frustrated team struggling to figure out how to win games.
"I was frustrated, it was a tough loss," Missouri defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson said.
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Part 1 of the Oracle "Mastering J2EE Application Development" series
An article I wrote for Oracle's OTN, describing five different types of applications that enterprise developers work on, and how J2EE and related enterprise Java technologies address each one.
Learn to love the OODBMS all over again
It has been said that the database wars are over and the relational database won. However, anyone who believes this state of affairs has led to peace and prosperity among programmers hasn't tried using a relational database to back Java objects lately. Part 1 of an in-depth, multipart series introducing db4o, an object-oriented alternative to today's relational databases.
Links to the complete series.
Whereas the RDBMS uses SQL as its principal mechanism for finding and retrieving data, an OODBMS can use one of several different mechanisms. In this second installment of his series, I introduce a few of the options, including Query by Example and custom mechanisms unique to the OODBMS. As I explains, some of the alternatives can be easier to use than SQL itself.
Refactoring Java code is far simpler than refactoring a relational database, but fortunately that isn't so much the case with object databases. In this installment of The busy Java developer's guide to db4o, Ted Neward introduces you to yet another advantage of his favorite object database: db4o simplifies refactoring to the point where it's almost trivial.
Object-oriented applications make considerable use of inheritance, and they frequently want to use that inheritance (or "is-a") relationship to categorize and organize objects within a given system. This can prove difficult in a relational storage scheme, which has no intrinsic concept of inheritance, but in an OODBMS, it's a core feature. In this installment of The busy Java developer's guide to db4o, discover the surprising ease (and power) of using inheritance as a core feature when creating queries in db4o.
Collections and arrays introduce new levels of complexity to the structured objects first discussed in The busy Java developer's guide to db4o: Beyond simple objects. Fortunately, db4o isn't the least bit fazed by handling multiplicity relationships -- and neither should you be.
So far, creating objects and manipulating them in db4o looks pretty easy -- maybe a little too easy, in fact. In this article, db4o enthusiast Ted Neward shows you what happens when simple objects become structured ones (that is, objects that reference objects) and issues like infinite recursion, cascading behavior, and referential integrity come into play.
Tweaking the Java Runtime API
Many Java programmers don't realize it, but the Java Runtime Environment is an amazingly configurable environment-so much about the Java execution environment can be controlled via options either on the command-line or through the JNI Invocation interface. One such option is the ability to define the location of the Java "bootstrap" classes-java.lang.Object, java.lang.Exception, and so forth-to come from someplace other than the ubiquitous "rt.jar" file in the "jre/lib" directory. In fact, we can use this non-standard JVM option to subvert the Java environment in many powerful ways, giving Java programmers a tremendous amount of power over their environment. But with power comes complexity, and this is no exception: it's powerful, but only if you're willing to accept the risks that go along with it.
Know What Code You're Executing
Understanding what version of your code is executing in production can be the difference between a solved bug and an embarrassing admission of ignorance. Too many times developers are caught up defending code that isn't properly migrated out to Production or a customer's machine. In some extreme cases, developers (and/or tech support staff) are expected to support code on client machines with no idea of precisely what version of the code is running there. Add to this mess the usual variety of patches, minor version releases and daily builds, and you have a recipe for complete disaster, both from a personal and professional standpoint. One of the common means to address this problem, coming to us from the C/C++ world, is to embed a string in a compiled object file, which then gets loaded into the compiled executable. "In the field", developers and/or tech support staff can run a utility (usually the Unix "strings" command or some variant thereof) to see the exact versions of each .C/.CPP file used to build the code the customer is currently running. Unfortunately, because Java doesn't support static linking, the same approach doesn't work for us; however, we can adapt it (through one of two ways) to provide much the same level of support.
When "java.policy" Just Isn't Good Enough
Java 2's security system is a complex, pluggable architecture that allows for Java programmers to participate in the default process, or to replace the java.policy-based implementation altogether in favor of something else. In fact, Sun favors this latter approach, urging developers to implement a customized Policy implementation more suitable to their business' needs. In this paper, we will examine the details of how a new Policy implementation is built, and provide readers with the knowledge necessary to "roll your own" Java Security Policy implementations. This paper assumes you are familiar, at least in concept, with some of the Java2 Security architecture.
When is a static not static?
Java programmers, like C++ programmers, expect that static instances (namely, static fields) are unique within the JVM. While true for most Java code, the real story behind the "static" keyword is more complex than that. What's worse, it can rear its head to bite Java programmers in very sensitive areas in complex environments like a servlet container or EJB server.
Giving Java Apps Their Own JRE
With the exponential growth of Java as a server-side development language has come an equivablent exponential growth in Java development tools, environments, frameworks, and extensions. Unfortunately, not all of these tools play nicely together under the same Java VM installation. Some require a Servlet 2.1-compliant environment, some require 2.2. Some only run under JDK 1.2 or above, some under JDK 1.1 (and no higher). Some require the "com.sun.swing" packages from pre-Swing 1.0 days, others require the "javax.swing" package names. Worse yet, this problem can be found even within the corporate enterprise, as systems developed using Java from just six months ago may suddenly "not work" due to the installation of some Java Extension required by a new (seemingly unrelated) application release. This can complicate deployment of Java applications across the corporation, and lead customers to wonder precisely why, five years after the start of the infamous "Installing-this-app-breaks-my-system" woes began with Microsoft's DLL schemes, we still haven't progressed much beyond that. (In fact, the new .NET initiative actually seeks to solve the infamous "DLL-Hell" problem just described.) This paper describes how to configure a Java installation such that a given application receives its own, private, JRE, allowing multiple Java environments to coexist without driving customers (or system administrators) insane.
Project LINQ addresses object-relational mismatch problems by elevating relations and queries to first-class concepts within language semantics and library-based extensions. Project LINQ offers a degree of type safety and static type checking lacking in most, if not all, forms of object-to-relation persistence found in use today in managed runtime environments such as .NET, Java, or J2EE containers.
Running ASP.NET code in an all-managed HTTP Server
Despite the wide popularity of ASP.NET (also known as the HTTP Pipeline), not well known is the fact that the HTTP Pipeline can be hosted in any .NET application, through the under-documented System.Web.Hosting namespace, part of the System.Web assembly. This paper discusses the API of the System.Web.Hosting classes, and how to host the HTTP Pipeline in your own code.
The quagmire that is Object/Relational Mapping
A follow-up paper to "The Vietnam of Computer Science" commissioned by ODMG.org on how an OODBMS can avoid some of the pitfalls of the Object/Relational mapping quagmire.
An article I co-authored for DevX (with Rogue Wave's Cory Isaacson) describing the myths of multi-core CPUs and Java app servers. Even though the article targeted Java app servers, the concepts are pretty universal and applicable to any application server (.NET, Java, or otherwise). And, for those who are curious, yes, the reference to the "trying the Diet Coke and Mentos trick in your kitchen" is a true story... but not in my kitchen, it was a friend of mine, I swear....
Java and .NET are both great platforms on their own, but together, they are a practical necessity in the modern enterprise. With enterprise development market share of 35-40% each, it's fairly obvious that neither of these two platforms is "going away" any time soon. It's clear to even the most zealous Java or .NET devotee that working with both platforms is going to become the norm. This article looks at various interoperability issues between the Java and .NET platforms.
Introduction to the "Pragmatic Architecture" series; contains links to the rest of the series
Rethinking n-tier, and why that's a good thing
What, exactly, does "secure" mean, from an architectural perspective?
Ajax, RIAs, "fat" clients, oy! It's enough to drive an architect mad....
Use XML to write papers
Having authored a number of papers, I've begun to run into the pain and agony of having to write while fighting with my chosen composition environment (that is, MSWord) and how to format things. For example, getting fonts and paragraph settings configured just the way I like them, standardizing on heading titles, and so on. I realize that I probably don't use the tool (again, MSWord) to a fraction of its complete capability, but I face a difficult choice: learn the tool in order to master it, and consume valuable time I could be writing, or simply live with the shortcomings of my ignorance and keep focused on the technologies I care about. Fortunately, another solution presented itself in the form of a tool written by DevelopMentor for use in its internal projects. Conceptually, it's a simple idea- -capture all content in XML, then render it into the medium desired (Word, PowerPoint, LaTEX, and so on) via tools. I was fortunate enough to be one of the early adopters, and was so enamored of the system that I immediately set out to see if I could replicate success by adopting something similar for my own use in writing papers.
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The Power of Independent Thinking
Anthony Gregory at P.A.U.L. Festival 2012
Recorded: Saturday, August 25, 2012
Independent Institute Research Fellow and Student Programs Director Anthony Gregory addresses P.A.U.L. Festival 2012 on Government Power and the Road to Liberty.
Experts: Anthony GregoryType: Other EventIssues: Civil Liberties/ Human Rights, Constitutional Law, Culture/ Society, Free Market Economics, Freedom, Nationalism, Political Ideology and Philosophy, Property Rights
Student Perspectives
2012 Summer Seminar for College Students
Recorded: Friday, August 3, 2012
These Student Perspectives are from our 2012 Challenge of Liberty Summer Seminar for college students, which was held from July 30 to August 3, 2012, at Notre Dame de Namurs University, Belmont, California.
View more videos and information about the Summer Seminars.
Type: Challenge of Liberty SeminarsIssues: Bureaucracy and Government, Business, Culture/ Society, Economic History and Development (International), Economic History and Development (U.S.), Economic Policy, Fiscal Policy/Debt, Free Market Economics, Freedom, Political Ideology and Philosophy, Property Rights
Benjamin Powell on Federal Youth Summer Jobs Funding & Consumer Banking Problems
Recorded: Thursday, January 5, 2012
Senior Fellow Benjamin Powell on Freedom Watch discusses Federal youth summer jobs funding and consumer banking problems.
Experts: Benjamin W. PowellType: TelevisionIssues: Banking and Finance, Fiscal Policy/Debt, Public Health/ Consumer Protection, Urban Issues


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Newsletter January 04
Building confidence, part 2: Action
The more you prepare presentations and speak to groups, the more your confidence will increase.
It's like learning to swim – you can listen to someone talk about it, read the books, listen to tapes and watch videos – but at some point you need to jump in the water! And the more often you do it, the more confident you become.
When I first started speaking to groups I was so nervous that I had to half-sit against a table, as my legs would have given way if I'd had to 'free-stand'. Realising that this wasn't the best way to spend my working life, I knew I needed to do something about it. I took some action.
This meant agreeing to, and even offering to speak at any opportunity, no matter how small – or large! Scary though it was, it was an extremely useful learning experience as I came to understand that audiences are actually made up of human beings, who are not expecting perfection, just a message they can understand and make use of.
As you get used to standing in front of a group you can put the situation into perspective.
It's similar to building your confidence through increasing your knowledge (see the last newsletter), as nervousness often arises from the fear of the unknown. The more we can make it a 'known' situation the more this allows our confidence to increase.
The more we stand in front of groups, then the more we know how it feels, how audiences are likely to react, and how we are likely to be! We get to understand that audiences do want you to do well, are interested in what you say, and that if you trip up over a few words, it's OK.
Take some action:
Set yourself goals, even simple ones initially, eg "I will speak at every staff meeting"
Accept - and make - opportunities to speak
Practice your talks many times before you give them
So please, 'Feel The Fear And Do It Anyway!' It's better to get up and say something even if it's not perfect in the beginning, than to not speak up at all. Don't aim to be perfect, just aim to improve.
Happy speaking!


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To celebrate the release of his new album, 'Let Them Talk', Hugh Laurie performed some of his new tracks in New Orleans last night and we're giving you the chance to watch his set here.
Hugh Laurie's debut album 'Let Them Talk' is released on Friday 6 May.
The album was recorded by Hugh Laurie after signing to Warner Bros Records in 2010 and was produced by Joe Henry and recorded in Los Angeles and New Orleans. It's a celebration of New Orleans blues.


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Hi my name Is Ken Beatrice and I'm commenting on mine own posting!!! goood job ken!!! thoguhtful and incsiznveive!!!
By Anonymous, at 3:16 PM
Now you can write Kwame Brown in green! cuz hes still green you know...
By Anonymous, at 11:21 AM
Nice colors. Here is a link:
By Rob, at 2:48 AM
Post a Comment


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|lighted space dresses (or vests)
These outfits were made for the serving staff to wear at an event with a futurstic theme. A "space dress" look was achieved with these silver metallic vests with flared collars, shoulder pads, and matching wrist cuffs. Strings of blue and white LEDs were used to illuminate the lightly padded edges of the garments.
We offer all kinds of flashy clothes that will enhance your stage presence. Please see our custom orders page for pricing guidelines, or contact us for more information.
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We found a TicketWeb account that might belong to you.
Log in to link your TicketWeb account with Facebook
Sunday, Apr 29, 2012 8:00 PM EDT (7:30 PM Doors)
Sullivan Hall, New York, NY
18 years and over
IGOR & RED ELVISES have been conquering the hearts of
screaming fans all over the world for over fifteen years with
diverse, upbeat music and amusing lyrics that demand (quite
literally at times) that you "shake your ass". With multiple tours
every year all over America, Europe, Russia and other countries,
this traveling rock and roll party is constantly in motion. They are
consistently evolving, and known to be extremely talented, overthe-
top showmen, complete with outrageous costumes and
personalities to match. Igor & Red Elvises have maintained their
independent status by declining several major record deals,
instead producing all their own work.
Tickets: $25 at advance, $35 at the door
Info and tickets : http://www.russianrock.net/newsite/future.shtml#RE
*Any person entering the venue that is under 21 years old will have to pay an additional $5 " under age fee " on top of the ticket price. The under aged fan that is paying this fee will get 1 free soft drink ticket so they can get 1 free soft drink at the bar.


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Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Preventing teen substance abuse is why Youth On Up was started.
The Fulton group addresses the need for area youth to get involved in safe activities rather than abusing alcohol or drugs. To try and incorporate more teens into Youth On Up (YOU), the group is hosting a community picnic from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, at Veterans Park. Along with two guest speakers, the picnic will also include free food, drinks, music, games and other activities.
Yolanda Smith, executive chair of the YOU committee, said the picnic is just one way the organization hopes to show youth they can have fun without using drugs or alcohol.
YOU members meet at 5:15 p.m. every third Thursday of the month at the John C. Harris Community Center in Fulton.
"We need more parents or anybody who wants to get involved to help," Smith said.
Use the comment form below to begin a discussion about this content.
Please review our Policies and Procedures before registering or commenting.


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Apply the face scrub across the whole face, and work it into the skin with circular motions remove with warm water or a damp flannel. For maximum effect moisturise after use with one of our Rose Otto Creams.
Aloe barbadensis leaf extract, Aqua, Caprylic/Capric triglyceride, Glycerin, Isopropyl palmitate, Pumice, Cetearyl alcohol, Glyceryl stearate, Glyceryl stearate SE, Cera alba (Beeswax), Cetearyl glucoside, Prunus armeniaca (Apricot) kernel oil, Rosa canina (Rose) fruit oil, Rosa canina (Rose) flower water, Prunus persica (Peach) seed powder, Xanthan gum, Sodium stearoyl glutamate, Rosa damascena (Rose) flower extract, Passiflora incarnata extract, Tilia europaea flower extract, Calendula officinalis flower extract, Chamomilla recutita flower extract, Ascorbic acid, Parfum, Pelargonium graveolens (Geranium) oil, Eugenia caryophyllata (Clove) flower oil, Rosa damascena (Rose) flower oil, Citric acid, Sodium benzoate, Potassium sorbate, Citronellol, Geraniol.
Advisory information:
Advisory information:
Avoid direct contact with the eye. If contact occurs rinse with plenty of warm water. Due to the ingredients natural origin, colour and consistency may vary from batch to batch. This does not affect the quality of the product.


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The sponsor of legislation to allow the concealed carry of firearms in Illinois says Governor Pat Quinn's efforts to make the measure more restrictive could backfire and lead to "mayhem."
State Representative Brandon Phelps is a Democrat from Harrisburg. He said Quinn is trying to appeal to voters in Cook County and is ignoring the rest of the state.
Phelps said if the Legislature doesn't override Quinn's amendatory veto on Tuesday, there could be statewide confusion about what the law is. That's because a federal court set Tuesday as the deadline for Illinois to end its last-in-the-nation ban on the public possession of guns.
Quinn has said the measure is flawed and jeopardizes public safety. He's holding weekend events on Chicago's South Side to press lawmakers to accept his changes.


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Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment
Votre Excellence Monsieur le Ministre Bettaieb, mes collegues confereciers, Mesdame et Messieurs, je vouce remercie pour votre chaleureux accueil. Je suis tres content d'etre pami vous ce soir.
I would like to thank our hosts, the Government of Tunisia and the Foreign Investment Promotion Agency of Tunisia, who have all worked very hard to put this event together.
I also want to acknowledge Ambassador Gordon Gray, who is with us here tonight. We have one of our finest Ambassadors in the world stationed in Tunis. This demonstrates the importance we place on this relationship. And I am delighted, Gordon, to join you here in Tunisia.
We are lucky to have a number of other impressive speakers here tonight, who know Tunisia and Tunisia's investment environment very well.
I believe I have some special qualifications to speak with you tonight.
When I was a young graduate student, I traveled to Tunisia. I went to Djerba and then to El Djem. And on the way back to Tunis, I traveled by Louage. It was a meaningful experience. One gets to know Tunisia very well by traveling throughout towns and cities by Louage.
I'd like to thank Ambassador Gray for providing a very different kind of transportation during this return trip.
As we all know, Tunisia was the birthplace of the enormous change that has swept the region over the past year. At the heart of the Tunisian revolution was the desire for sustainable and inclusive economic development and, especially, jobs, particularly for young people.
Indeed, the Tunisia Investment Forum one year ago was the first major international economic event in the post-revolution era.
The past year has been challenging for Tunisia. And there is still much work to do. Tunisia faces significant economic challenges, made worse by the state of the global economy. And it is still rolling back decades of prior corruption and other obstacles to private sector growth.
Nonetheless, the United States has great confidence that Tunisia can fulfill its potential as a dynamic economy and a hub for direct foreign investment.
Tunisia has a great history as an international commercial center. The people of Carthage established the dominant civilization in the Mediterranean for several centuries.
Even under Roman rule, this area became known as the Granary of the Empire and, by some estimates, produced one million tons of cereals each year.
So despite being the smallest country in North Africa, the people of Tunisia, from Punic times on, have proven time and again that they are can and will create an international commercial center that is ripe for investment.
The people of Tunisia can, and I believe they will, do it again. Tunisia's continued progress toward this goal can be energized by a young and vibrant youth, a dynamic business sector, and the reforms being made by the Government to strengthen the economy and energize investment.
Tunisia is fortunate to have two highly precious resources: a population of highly-educated young people and many vibrant businesses.
President Obama said last year, "the greatest untapped resource in the Middle East and North Africa is the talent of its people."
Over forty percent of Tunisia's population is under twenty-five. This well-educated population is eager for the opportunities promised by the revolution and ready to make their contribution.
Tunisia also is home to a large population of small and medium-sized businesses, or SMEs. Eighty-three percent of businesses in Tunisia are SMEs. SMEs are key drivers to create jobs and generate local revenue and taxes, here as in the United States.
I want to emphasize particularly the importance of the participation of women in SMEs. Ensuring they have significant opportunity to utilize their talents and energy in this sector, and throughout the economy, will boost overall economic growth in the country.
With these essential ingredients for economic growth, the Government of Tunisia has taken and is planning to take a number of steps to ensure Tunisia is a prime destination for foreign direct investment. And we are delighted that Tunisia is doing so in partnership with the United States.
I had the great honor this morning to meet with the every dynamic and wise leader of Tunisia, His Excellency the Head of Government Hamadi Jebali, who described the important and very positive reforms his government is undertaking. These reforms should boost investment in Tunisia and help create jobs.
In November 2011, we hosted a Tunisia Partnerships Forum in Washington, DC to connect Tunisian entrepreneurs and investors
And just a month ago, I participated in a similar event at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and witnessed a constructive discussion among the Tunisian diaspora business communities in the United States, Tunisia companies, and American companies.
The Government of Tunisia, under the leadership of Head of Government Jebali, has laid out an ambitious plan to attract foreign investment. I'd like to highlight just a few of these key steps:
First, the government has budgeted a significant sum for public investment into infrastructure projects.
This is a wise decision for many reasons, in part because of the benefits of upgrading Tunisia's infrastructure and fulfilling Tunisia's enormous potential as a true trading hub for the Mediterranean. Many American companies have great experience in this area and should be able to help with these projects.
Second, the government is undertaking a program to reform Tunisia's investment and tax code with the help of the United States' Commercial Law Development Program.
U.S. companies in the region have expressed concern about a lack of predictability and transparency in regulatory decision-making. The Tunisian government's efforts will ensure greater transparency and access for both U.S. and other foreign companies.
Third, Tunisia is on the path toward open governance. Tunisia plans to join the Open Government Partnership next year after qualifying for membership.
Tunisia should be commended for taking the necessary steps for eligibility, including an open budget process, providing access to information, providing disclosures by senior government officials, and promoting citizen participation and engagement in policymaking.
Fourth, Tunisia is adopting many best practices for the treatment of foreign direct investment. The OECD Investment Committee approved Tunisia's application in March to adhere to the OECD Declaration on International Investment and Multilateral Enterprises.
Adherence will help to ensure favorable treatment of foreign investors, minimizing conflicting requirements, and improving cooperation with other countries on promoting international direct investment.
I've been fortunate to experience first-hand the results of these reforms, and believe it is important that they continue. Yesterday, I traveled to Bizerte. I met with a number of business people and entrepreneurs.
They have had a difficult year. However, like many business people in Tunisia, they are benefitting from reforms and several are flourishing. As a result, they are growing their businesses. They are creating new jobs.
In other words they now have the opportunities that Mohamed Bouazizi was denied.
I also have met with American companies that have invested in Tunisia and have very positive stories to tell about their experiences. We encourage other American companies to talk to them and to learn from them.
Because of the Tunisian Government's demonstrated commitment to these efforts, the United States is a strong champion of Tunisia as a country with the potential to grow and succeed as a dynamic, job-creating economy, and as an important destination for foreign direct investment.
And we have demonstrated our belief in Tunisia's potential. I will give you a few recent examples.
The United States is helping stabilize the Tunisian economy by extending a guarantee that will enable the central bank to issue bonds worth several hundred million dollars to international investors. Our two governments signed a bilateral agreement on this guarantee operation just last week in Washington.
The United States provided a $100 million cash transfer to the Government of Tunisia for near-term debt relief. This allowed the Government of Tunisia to use money otherwise intended for debt payments abroad for its priority domestic programs, accelerating economic growth and job creation.
The U.S. government is also keen on promoting small and medium-sized enterprise development through the use of Enterprise Funds.
As chair of the Group of Eight this year, we are working with our partners, regional countries, and international financial institutions to promote better economic governance.
We have done this because of our friendship and partnership with Tunisia, but also because we hope others who share this view will invest in Tunisia's future.
The date of this forum is auspicious for us. For the U.S. State Department, today is Global Economic Statecraft Day. Today the Secretary and each of our Embassies are holding events to highlight America's commitment to putting economics at the center of our foreign policy.
The transitions in Tunisia and the rest of the Middle East and North Africa region, are shaping our world. Increasingly, political transitions hinge on global economic progress, just as economic progress depends on good political reform. Sound economic policies and programs in Washington, Tunis, and other capitals must play a central role in shaping our choices and responses.
Our partnership with Tunisia is an excellent example of our commitment to this approach. We are using our available economic and diplomatic tools to help Tunisia's challenges and unlock the flow of investment to and trade with Tunisia. We look to other governments and companies throughout the world to make similar connections, not just because it is good for Tunisia, but also because in an interdependent world it is good for them as well
Our support includes the bilateral and multilateral support I mentioned earlier. But it also means looking for ways that the U.S. private sector can play a key role in Tunisia's transition and economic development.
And this is why so many of our companies have come here to talk to Tunisian companies and government officials. I am confident that they will see great opportunities and that they also can provide ideas and suggestions that will help Tunisian companies to identify and develop partnerships with American companies and close trade relations as well.
I look forward to hearing from the rest of the speakers as we discuss the opportunities and challenges facing Tunisia. For our part, Tunisia can count on a continued partnership with our Embassy, President Obama, Secretary Clinton, myself and other leaders and officials in Washington. We share a deep friendship with the Tunisian people, great respect for its leaders, confidence in its reform process, and an optimism about its future.
Thank you.
Short URL: http://m.state.gov/md193224.htm


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Why I like Donald Trump
What is your take on Trump for president?
Labels: politics
Commentary on popular culture and society, from a (mostly) psychological perspective
Labels: politics
So far I like him. He doesn't tip-toe around anything or anyone. I'm very curious what you saw last night specifically that made you react so positively.
I have a deep loathing for the dramatics in which he engages, but then he is a TV personality to a large degree.
On the other hand, you cannot call Donald Trump a shrinking violet. Nobody gets to be a Donald Trump by being...
possessed of a trivial mind
timid and easily dominated
vicious or malicious
readily moved by rhetoric
ill-informed, or (and this is the BIG one)...
Trump is a lot of things, but he ain't stupid. Not by half.
I've no doubt, were The Donald elected POTUS, he would quickly (and possibly with good reason) be branded the Prima Donna Prez. Better men have been called worse.
But barring another candidate of better background and character, I can easily see myself voting for Trump. I don't believe for a second he would be wetnursed by a Teleprompter, nor is he likely to bow to Muslim regents. Frankly, I don't think he'd bow to a British royal if US/UK relations hung in the balance. Just not a bower, from my view.
I have a lot of time for Donald Trump.
If he is serious about restoring fiscal sanity and limited Federal government, I can support the abrasive fellow.
Otherwise, I wouldn't vote for him as President of Hair Club for Men.
I would vote for him in the general election, but likely not in the primary.
But then, I would vote for Hillary Clinton in the general if it were against President Obama.
I like Trump better than Huckabee, who reminds me too much of Bush. I think I would vote for Romney over Trump, but Trump and Newt would be a toss up.
I suspect Trump, though clearly a prima donna, would be rather a decent domestic president.
My biggest concerns are that he's too entrenched in the 'crony capitalism' world to do anything about it and that he is not particularly knowledgeable about, or interested in, foreign policy.
That said, because of his celebrity credentials, Trump can get away with saying things about Obama (and by extension the regime) that ordinary politicians cannot. Go, The Donald!
I think Trump's toupee is better qualified than the current president.
People hate amateur-politicians. Trump would say somethng stupid during the election and never be able to recover.
In addition, The U.S. saw with GW Bush what it is like to have a president who is disinterested in policy. Trump would be totally disinterested in policy or administration.
Why not find a candidate who has a long term history of success in government instead of someone who uses his own name to con the gullible.
Trump is not my first choice, but I I think he is better than Huckabee, better than Gingrich, better than Cain.... and of course better than Obama.
Trump is a phony but that didn't seem to be a bar for Kerry.
I have trouble understanding how someone would think Bush "uninterested in policy" but I suspect that is another way of saying he didn't like the policy. The more we see Obama adopt Bush policies, the harder it is to dismiss Bush's role in those policies.
"I'm very curious what you saw last night specifically that made you react so positively."
Actually, it was an interview I saw on CNBC and I liked some (not all) of what he said, in particular this:
"The United States--look, I'm all for golf. I'm a good golfer, I play a lot of golf, I win plum championships, I know a lot about the game. I own 12 courses that are top of the line. I don't want to see Obama--and I'm speaking against myself--I don't want to see Obama playing golf when Japan is in this kind of trouble."
I do want to hear more about his views, particularly on foreign policy. I think what I responded positively to was his being willing to criticize Obama openly when so many will not.
I'm very reluctant to vote for anybody for President who hasn't had executive-branch experience. Unfortunately, the majority of those who voted in the 2008 Presidential election don't have that reluctance. Donald Trump has no governmental experience whatsoever, and I suspect that his style, which, whatever its merits, is not based on anything except position power, would be a disaster.
Trump isn't stupid but running the government is far different than a business.
We can talk all we want about how it should be done, but the facts are that it is more complicated than saying you'll install an immediate tariff on China.
The soft money and special interest groups on all sides of the political spectrum have too much influence.
Candidates work for half a term before having to start campaigning for re-election.
I don't think that Trump is going to be willing to undergo the scrutiny and the nonsense involved in politics.
I don't really like Trump, but you gotta respect his skills. We do need a real citizen politician in the Oval and with each passing day of the Obama Presidency, Trump is looking better and better.
What's my take on Trump for POTUS? He's a hell of a lot BETTER than what's in there now!
Two words, Ross Perot.
The combination of business and government experience is so rare that it's a real shame that Rumsfeld is too old. I would vote for him at 81 but if only he was ten years younger!
I think the GOP has to nominate a governor. Romney has the money but I am uneasy about him. Daniels or Kasich seem to be the best bet so far.
Trump is a slimeball. His father was the brilliant businessman. Trump simply understands the law, especially bankruptcy law, well enough to exploit the loopholes.
I don't know too much about him except that he has left a trail of bankruptcies in his wake. Exactly what is he so good at except taking his investors to the cleaners that you would admire so much?
Michael K,
Yes, Rumsfeld at 81. When the world is smelling blood, Donald R's the man.
I think Trump's toupee is better qualified than the current president.
I've ignored Trump as much as it's possible to ignore him. He definitely has some of the qualities it takes to be a successful president. I'd give him serious consideration.
Trump knows how to get things done in the corporate world. Do what he says or get fired and he'll hire someone else who will. Doesn't work that way in politics. That being said, the proverbial potted plant would be more effective than the guy we've got now.
Thank God for Donald Trump.
He's the only candidate telling the truth about China. He's the only candidate afraid to touch the 'Birther' issue. (I hope that last one doesn't blow up in his face).
But right now - he's the only candidate who has shown A LOT of courage. God bless him. He's got my vote.
Locomotive Breath said...
Trump knows how to get things done in the corporate world. Do what he says or get fired and he'll hire someone else who will. Doesn't work that way in politics.
Excellent point. We're seeing this dynamic in states like Florida where a long-time businessman is now in a position of government executive leadership. Having business sense is a great asset, and a lot of it should be brought to bear in government - but the management skills and style don't necessarily translate directly into public office.
By the by, from your screen name I take it you're a Jethro Tull fan?
He has personal wealth, but: has Donald Trump ever run a business that didn't end up in bankruptcy? Mostly, Donald Trump is good at transferring wealth from shareholders to himself. Doesn't exactly sound like the man we need right now to me...actually, he sounds like a typical Democrat.
I'm generally skeptical of anybody who thinks they can just jump into the running for the top job, especially a businessman. Too many top business execs are all about working the system. We need somebody focused on changing the system they way Scott Walker is in WI, for example.
Trump is Romney without the religious baggage.
Or the moral scruples.
Vader said...
Trump is Romney without the religious baggage.
Or the moral scruples.
1:35 PM, March 28, 2011
Or the hair. Don't forget the hair.
Instead of comparing Trump to Obama, we should be comparing him to people like Rick Perry or Mitch Daniels -- i.e., people with proven track records in elected executive government.
I'm not saying that state governorship should be a sine qua non for the Presidency. But it sure as hell beats a pure politician like Obama, and a simple businessman like Trump (or Perot).
Kim, the problem with people with proven track records in elected executive government is that they think government works and should be continued.
I disagree. I think the government is toxic to America and needs to be drastically and radically downsized. Mitch Daniels does not think that way at all.
I don't want some big governemnt hack like Huckabee or Daniels.
TMink said...
Kim, the problem with people with proven track records in elected executive government is that they think government works and should be continued.
I disagree. I think the government is toxic to America and needs to be drastically and radically downsized. Mitch Daniels does not think that way at all.
I don't want some big governemnt hack like Huckabee or Daniels.
Trey, I like the way you think. I would look at it as they think government is the answer, and keep thinking government is the answer. Except for a few clearly-defined and narrowly delimited Constitutionally-prescribed functions, it ain't.
I agree with you about Huckabee. I don't know much about Daniels, but Huckabee's track record shows a prediliction toward big, intrusive government. It also shows very poor judgment, e.g. his grants of clemency/pardons to some very bad characters such as Maurice Clemmons. I can't imagine ever voting for the guy.
Forget Huckabee. He's an old-school Southern Democrat, not a Republican. Just remember, lots of Republican state governors resent the hell out of the Fed, and are unlikely to get too comfortable with the idea of growing it. Perry is a good example; the guy from one of the Dakotas (can't remember his name) is another. Someone to remember for later would be Ohio's guy Kasich, once he's figured out the job.
State governorships are excellent training wheels for the Presidency.
Oh... and you can't have Perry. We like him just fine right where he is.
Kim, good points all. To be honest, we had a pretty good Democratic governer here in Tennessee, Phil Bredesen. He was a businessman who made his bucks through HCA. He reformed our version of Medicaid and did a pretty good job of it against tons of socialist screaming.
I voted for him twice. He balanced the budget too. Sadly, he recently published a book in which he endorses a single payor health care system, so I could never vote for him in a position where he could implement that mess!
Kim said...
Oh... and you can't have Perry. We like him just fine right where he is.
Why are you so selfish? ;-)
I don't like Donald Trump because of ugly obnoxious buildings he put up in NYC. The guy just has a terrible taste, and he comes off too much like a clown. When I hear "Donald Trump for President", my reaction is "what's next, Paris Hilton?"
Trey - Good point about Bredesen. I happen to be acquainted with the state treasurer, a Republican, and he speaks highly of Bredesen.
Trey and dunkel, I think it's actually more of the opposite if you are talking about somebody from the GOP. There is a degree skeptisism about government in the GOP. Even though it's reviled, compare how W structured Medicare Part D vs Obamacare's mandates and exchanges.
I'd contrast that with a guy like Trump who has probably been working hand in glove with local, state, and federal governments for decades on his development projects. He's going to see direct government involvment in all sorts of projects as a good thing since it made him money.
Herman Cain posseses all Trumps good qualities w/o his bad ones.
Donald Trump appears to be a political neophyte who, though well-versed in media relations, hasn't given politics much thought. I think he would likely be an horrible president, perhaps nearly as bad as Barry.
I'd much prefer Wayne Allyn Root to Trump. Like Trump, Root is a self-promoter who is managing to get on national TV every other day, it seems. However, he has much better-developed political ideas; Trump seems to be doing politics on the fly.
Root, by the way, was in the same Columbia class as BHO. Curiously, he never heard of BHO while in college.
I want a president who will slap big tariffs on imports and bring manufacturing jobs back to America. I find it unrealistic to believe we'll ever have full employment without lots of skilled labor positions.
I know this will be a tough transition and good will cost more, maybe a lot more, be Trump seems to be the one guy who isn't afraid to say the rest of the world is taking America to the bank.
No thanks.
Trump has his points, but he's not POTUS material. And, I believe that will become obvious, even to the right, if he decides to run. (See multiple comments above about bankruptcies, etc.)
That said, I'd also have to agree that "I think Trump's toupee is better qualified than the current president."
On the gripping hand,, I'd love it if he would volunteer to take on Soros, one way or another. He's about the only American who could.
"He may be a media savvy pimp but what's wrong with that?"
Yeah. Obama is a media savvy pimp and look how great electing him has turned out so far!
An over exposed, theatrical, comb-over twit, and that's the good part. I'm a staunch Right wing boy - Attilla you wimp!- but good grief!
Trump would likely be as good a president as Schwartzeneger and Ventura were governors, i.e. not very good. Being able to poke the right buttons on TV doesn't equate to being able to work with Congress on getting legislation passed. The U.S. Presidency is not an entry level position.
As much as people like to think it is, the Federal Government isn't a business. Some business sense would be helpful, but a President can't give orders to Congress. He can barely give orders to people in the Executive Branch. When working with Congress, he has to convince a majority of 535 monomaniacal prima donnas to do what he wants. In business, everyone at the table is trying to make a buck. In government, you can't be sure what anyone at the table really wants. It's a totally different world.
I'd love to have someone who had been a CEO of a successful business, along with being successful in high-level politics. But, someone who has no proven government experience would get rolled as badly as Obama has, even if he did have a better set of goals.
monomaniacal = megalomaniacal
..curses, burned by the spell checker.
"Apparently, being media savvy is what it takes to get elected President these days."
Actually, since the Kennedy-Nixon debates, at least.
Re Trump: As always, you are an independent thinker. One of your many admirable qualities. Personally, I'd vote for him, and count on him to kick some ass. I remember the Wollman Rink fiasco in NYC years ago. City just could not get its act together in rehabbing the rink. This went on for years, and anyone who asked questions (like 'Where did all the money go?' or 'Why is there never anyone actually WORKING on the site?') was told to 'mind your own business'. (Guess how I know this?)
Finally, NYC's incompetent, inbred Democrats got embarrassed enough by all the mocking headlines that they let Trump take over. Boom. Done in a few months.
I'm not saying Trump could ever get ELECTED, mind you. You really have to swim in the political waters to get elected POTUS, and Trump is an eternal outsider. (Probably why I like him for the job.) But if he was on the ballot, yeah, he'd have my vote.
Had he been put in charge of WTC rebuild, we'd have celebrated the twin towers' rebirth by now.
If what you want is a super-successful businessman who also DOES know how to get elected - Mike Bloomberg. I realize that 'Mister Helen' does not like him, but he is a guy who actually could turn the country around.
I may be mistaken, but I believe in the last election cycle Trump floated an idea for a one-time tax on accumulated wealth. It is a very interesting idea that I had given serious thought to before hearing him discuss it. I had never heard any majorfigure discuss this idea before. I wonder if he'll resurrect this one.
What is also good about Trump is that he is completely known and defined by the MSM.
If he runs against Obama the media cannot tell everyone he is just a dumb racist Republican. We know he isn't.
That is why he is getting away with the birther stuff. The media can't say, "listen to the dumb conspiracy nut," The public knows he is a Wharton educated brilliant businessman, no amount of media spin can change that image.
I love and respect the entire Insta-family but please seek help if you really believe this, Insta- Doctor. The first step is the hardest and we're only as sick as our secrets.
It would give me an excuse to buy a bumper sticker I saw online.
Trump 2012
Obama, You're fired!
Ah, who needs an excuse, I'm going get one for the pickup right now. It'll look good next to my "Friends of Coal" Kentucky license plate. :-)
As a friend of mine is fond of saying, every toolbox needs sandpaper.
I have always liked him as a TV personalty, but have had the same "crony capitalist" concerns that are mentioned above. After watching the interview linked below however, it seems like we could (and certainly have) done worse. I never thought I would say this, but I am actually softening up to him as a truly legitimate option in the primaries...
i have a slogan for trump's campaign
Listen, I'm a birther and the truth of the matter is that birthers are becoming a menace to our own constitution. Most birthers believe the issue involves the question of where he was born, thinking that is an end state. Well, hate to break it to you folks, if the guy produces a document that says he is native born most will consider the question closed. Hence, the idea that birthers are a menace. Native born does not equate to natural born. Natural born equates to born without foreign allegiance, pure and simple. Native born citizens are often born with foreign citizenship, ask the guy pruning your shrubs about his kids.
Americans love drama and conspiracy theories, believing the President is hiding something they have concocted a need for a smoking gun with ideas that there is criminal mischief afoot. Well, kids, guess what...no need, so stop it. The President was born a dual citizen, he's said as much. Folks born with allegiance to foreign power were specifically identified as ineleligble to hold the office of the presidency (per John Jay). Simple as that. Sorry to mess up your "black panther party" but that's all you need to petition the courts and the congress to act. Honest. Trump and everyone else that distracts the electorate from the obvious are doing a disservice to our nation and the constitution. If you can't see that, then you are part of the problem and should at the very least "shut up". Please.
Dan said...
I want a president who will slap big tariffs on imports and bring manufacturing jobs back to America. I find it unrealistic to believe we'll ever have full employment without lots of skilled labor positions.
Smoot-Hawley didn't really work out that well. I'm not so sure Smoot-Hawley II is such a good idea.
Dr. Helen, I'm disappointed. Donald Trump is a louse. We're talking about a guy whose famed business career amounts to leveraging his father's real estate business, political connections and the bankruptcy laws. I not just bankruptcy as in failure, but bankruptcy as in "renegotiate my loan contract or I'll declare bankruptcy and leave you holding the bag". If you look at the guy's proposed policies, they aren't free enterprise and capitalism. They're mercantilism and crony capitalism.
Now, if there were a movement to draft John Allison or David Koch, I'd be asking where I should donate the maximum contribution.
Cain is impressive, so is West.
Whoever the "birther" is, you do not talk like any birther I have ever talked to.
I'd prefer an old yellow dog to Obama, but in the case of Trump, I can't tell much difference.
"I want a president who will slap big tariffs on imports and bring manufacturing jobs back to America."
Smoot-Hawley, anyone?
Did not work out well at all.
"We're talking about a guy whose famed business career amounts to leveraging his father's real estate business, political connections and the bankruptcy laws. I not just bankruptcy as in failure, but bankruptcy as in "renegotiate my loan contract or I'll declare bankruptcy and leave you holding the bag". If you look at the guy's proposed policies, they aren't free enterprise and capitalism."
I agree, but reality is not the issue.
A guy has to appear rich, and has to appear to have overwhelming confidence, and that's all that many or most Americans need to kick in their Hero archetype. I guess especially among women.
And that's why America is really, truly fucked and is probably going to find out that it is not the Superpower anymore in 20-30 years.
What certain people here don't get is that EVERYONE fabricates a "story" about himself if he happens to get rich. That applies to lotto winners as well. Trump has written about his past in a self-serving way, and some people here buy it hook, line and sinker.
He's got the overwhelming appearance of confidence. That's why the bad-haircut-dude is with a constant string of super-models.
Vader said...
"I want a president who will slap big tariffs on imports and bring manufacturing jobs back to America."
Smoot-Hawley, anyone?
Did not work out well at all.
2:28 PM, March 30, 2011
Must be an echo in here. ;-)
Last evening Trump outdid himself by suggesting that not only was Obama not an American but he was probably a Muslim..the guy is an out and out showman.
If you want a possible conservative candidate, Scott Brown's numbers are soaring beyond Obama's or any other democrat at this point.
"Trump would likely be as good a president as Schwartzeneger and Ventura were governors, i.e. not very good."
I disagree, those two were actors. Trump has made money. He has had a job. A real job. A job that made payrole. Something that the President and 93% of his cabinet have never done. Really, only 7% of the President's cabinet have had a real job. The rest have strong jaw muscles from sucking the government teat. Or something.
Don't remember the commentor's name, maybe "Ed", but he proposed a bumper sticker, "Donald Trump, He Has A Pair". Bravo! Totally agree. Someone needs to get in there and kick some Congressional Asses. And several non-Congressional. Trump is a businessman familiar with processes that make money and cut waste, a prime factor in successful private businesses. Dearly needed in our bloated guvmint. How many millionaires have lost it and gained it back and then some? You learn from mistakes. America hasn't but is about to, I dearly pray. Mistake=Obama's election. No candidate will be faultless. But will have "less faults" that will get him/her elected. We need someone "with a pair". Donald Trump, Michelle Bachmann or Sarah Palin. Trump is the more experienced, but obviously not as gorgeous as the other two. My 2 cents.


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Midwives vs. OBGYN?
I am 7 weeks prego and can't decide whether I want a Midwife or OBGYN. Does anybody have any thoughts on why one is better than the other? Does anybody know of any helpful sights to make an informed decision on a DR?
Posted: 05/11/2008 by jennaalyse
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Which documentary did you see? I am 4 weeks pregnant and when I called my OB, they schedule my first two with a midwife (their policy) and only after seeing a midwife twice can I make the decision to switch to OB.posted 10/02/2012 by a BabyCenter Member
I truely feel both Midwives and OBGYN's have a place in the birthing community. I delivered all 3 of my children with a Dr. My third was assisted by CNM at a hospital with my OBGYN. MY baby was too big for my midwife to delivery safely at home so she recommended that I go to the hospital. I did. She stayed with me the whole labor and delivery. I had no epidural and gave birth to 12lb baby boy,(3 weeks early), vaginally. I did tear enough for 2 small stitches thanks for her wonderful perineal messages through out labor. My Dr. didn't have a problem with her and she helped me stay true to my birth plan. If I had a 4th child I would definetly use a midwife, if it were safe for the baby and myself. The bottom line is my midwife had my baby's and my well being as her first interest. There are pros and cons to each side. Weigh your options and remember knowledge is power.posted 05/13/2008 by MomaMert
I recently saw this documentary, and I mean it really opened my eyes to the difference between the two. But I would have to agree that both are necessary depending on the circumstances. Here's the link, I hope it helps. http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?docId=8597620254789409121posted 05/15/2008 by bbybaby
Answer this question


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Md. Gun Law Found Unconstitutional
Maryland's requirement that residents show a "good and substantial reason" to get a handgun permit is unconstitutional, according to a federal judge's opinion filed Monday.
States can channel the way their residents exercise their Second Amendment right to bear arms, but because Maryland's goal was to minimize the number of firearms carried outside homes by limiting the privilege to those who could demonstrate "good reason," it had turned into a rationing system, infringing upon residents' rights, U.S. District Judge Benson Everett Legg wrote.


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Italy Hit By Credibility Crisis, More Than Debt?
A lack of government credibility on international markets risks weighing on Italy more than its €1.9 trillion debt–larger than the combined debt of Greece, Spain, Portugal and Ireland–and the rising costs of funding it.
In his comments Tuesday on Moody's decision to slash the Italian credit rating by three notches to A2, the rating agency's lead Italy analyst said mounting political uncertainty was one of three key factors contributing to the downgrade–together with increasingly tenuous market sentiment and weak Italian and global growth prospects.
Moody's recognizes the fact that the Italian government, headed by Silvio Berlusconi, is working toward more sustainable fiscal targets, thanks to the €54 billion austerity packaged hammered out this summer, which aims at balancing the budget by 2013.
But with economic uncertainties at home and external risks as well, it also notes implementation risks remain high.
Moody's comments partially echoed those of S&P, which in September cut Italy's sovereign-debt rating by a notch to A, citing weakening economic growth prospects, government divisions and a lack of a bipartisan approach as factors that will likely limit Italy's ability to respond to global challenges.
Critics of Mr. Berlusconi, who has to deal with an increasingly fractious coalition and a string of judicial troubles, jumped on Moody's comments, reiterating calls for the Italian premier to deliver a strong growth-boosting response to the crisis, or quit.
Economics professor and left-leaning commentator Tito Boeri noted in a recent analysis that the observed increase in Italian debt insurance costs compared to Spain's is due "not only to policy and communication failures but also to Mr. Berlusconi's lack of personal credibility. The costs of such bad handling of the crisis could be of the order of €20 billion."
Mr. Boeri added: "The deterioration of the relative position of Italy vis-à-vis Spain can therefore be attributed to differences in the reaction of the two governments to the credibility crisis."
Asked Tuesday about a similar topic–why Spain is doing better in terms of spreads compared to Italy–Italian Finance Minister Giulio Tremonti told journalists in Luxembourg it was probably because 'Spain announced it will hold early elections.'
He later rushed to issue a written statement saying he wasn't referring at all to Italy's political situation. That comment, coming from a cautious and influential member of Mr. Berlusconi's cabinet, seemed, however, to point to a quick, possible solution to Italy's credibility crisis: early polls.


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Statistics – Oct. 31, 2011
( Monday )
The observance of Halloween, which dates back to Celtic rituals thousands of years ago, has long been associated with images of witches, ghosts, devils and hobgoblins. Over the years, Halloween customs and rituals have changed dramatically. Today, many of the young and young at heart take a more light-spirited approach. They don scary disguises or ones that may bring on smiles when they go door to door for treats, or attend or host a Halloween party.
Trick or Treat!
41 million
The estimated number of potential trick-or-treaters in 2010 — children 5 to 14 — across the United States. Of course, many other children — older than 14 and younger than 5 — also go trick-or-treating.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010 Census,
116.7 million
Number of occupied housing units across the nation in 2010 — all potential stops for trick-or-treaters.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010 Census,
Percentage of households with residents who consider their neighborhood safe. In addition, 78 percent said there was no place within a mile of their homes where they would be afraid to walk alone at night.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Extended Measures of Well-Being: Living Conditions in the United States, 2005, Table 4,
1.1 billion pounds
Pumpkin production by major pumpkin-producing states in 2010. Illinois produced an estimated 427 million pounds of the vined orange gourd. California, New York and Ohio were also major pumpkin-producing states, each with an estimate of more than 100 million pounds.
Source: USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service
Halloween costumes and props are becoming a big part of our favorite holiday. The number of specialty store seem to be increasing each year with the popularity of October 31. and our favorite event. Props are also becoming more elaborate as technology progresses.
Candy and Costumes
Number of U.S. manufacturing establishments that produced chocolate and cocoa products in 2009, employing 34,252 people. California led the nation in the number of chocolate and cocoa manufacturing establishments, with 135, followed by Pennsylvania, with 111.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns: 2009, NAICS codes (31132 & 31133),
Number of U.S. establishments that manufactured nonchocolate confectionary products in 2009. These establishments employed 16,974 people. California led the nation in this category, with 45 establishments.
24.7 pounds
Per capita consumption of candy by Americans in 2010.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Current Industrial Reports, Confectionery: 2010, Table 1,
Number of costume rental and formal wear establishments across the nation in 2009.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2009 County Business Patterns, NAICS code (53222)