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Ian Buchanan has always felt the unknown - the deep, impenetrable darkness that lives within him. Yet he is determined to lead a "normal" life, ignoring the unsettling dreams in which he succumbs to his wildest desires... Until psychic Molly Stratton tracks him down, claiming to share his sensual nightmares.
The petite Molly even has the bite marks to prove it. And she's also received a message from Ian's deceased mother: an enemy is near. And it's time for the creature inside Ian to finally awaken. A creature with an insatiable hunger that must be controlled before it overtakes them both...
Rhyannon Byrd is a new to me author but her covers were just so captivating that I couldn't resist buying the first of her three back to back releases. Her Primal Instinct series features a different twist on paranormal myths that was quite refreshing to read in a genre gluttoned by vampires. Byrd does include shapeshifters in 'Edge of Hunger' but not much is revealed about them. Rather, Byrd focuses on the hero who is known as the Merrick, a person who is not wholly human and who has the ability to shift into a being bent on the destruction of it's nemesis, the Casus.
Ian Buchanan is haunted by the darkness threatening to break through his formidable control. Nightmares plague him where fangs spring from his gums and blood cascades down his throat from the willing neck of a brunette gypsy. Terrified and soaked with sweat, Ian fears the dreams where he ceases to be human. But one little brown-eyed woman is about to make him face the darkness, whether he wants to or not.
Molly Stratton has finally given in to the demands of Ian's deceased mother, Elaina. Molly has been able to communicate with ghosts since high school. Coming to her in her dreams, these determined spirits hound Molly into complying with their last wishes such as "Tell so and so this", or "Give so and so that". Generally trivial stuff, but Elaina wants Molly to pass information to her eldest son, Ian, that very well could save his life. Now, if only she can get him to believe her.
It's never been a secret to anyone whose ever been in contact with Ian, that he's quick to judge and generally just an all around belligerent jerk. From the moment Ian spots Molly, he knows she's trouble and trouble in any form is something that Ian wants to stay as far away from as possible. When the little blond starts talking ghosts and the whisperings of his deceased mother, Ian strives to keep himself from grabbing the woman and shoving her beautiful butt back into her car and back to where ever it is she hails from. But when Molly makes mention of the darkness within him, Ian is stupefied and even more determined to get away from her.
But Molly follows Ian right into his nightmares except this time instead of the brunette gypsy, it's Molly he's thrusting into and indulging in his primal craving - sinking his fangs into her neck and drinking the sweetest nectar he's ever tasted. Amazingly enough, his dream Molly isn't afraid of his beastly nature but in fact smiles coyly at him. When the darkness begins to boil beneath his skin, Ian panics in fear that he'll hurt her and rips himself from the nightmare. Heaving and soaked in sweat, Ian is relieved to be awake but his relief is short lived. When pounding on his door reveals Molly, Ian can't dispel the denial churning in his gut when Molly sweeps aside her blond curls to reveal two throbbing puncture wounds in her neck, the same exact place that he sank his fangs into in his nightmare.
Molly hopes that with the proof on her neck Ian will heed Elaina's initial warnings that the darkness is awakening and that someone close to him is in danger. One part has already proven true but now Molly must help Ian protect those he cares about. Unfortunately she's too late. Ian's recent lover is found torn to shreds in a nearby field. Something dangerous is prowling the streets of Henning, Colorado and Ian soon makes the monster's acquaintance.
Malcolm DeKreznick is a Casus, an immortal and evil race of beings that were imprisoned centuries ago in the Meridian, a metaphysical holding cell by the ancient rival tribe of Merricks. Malcolm knows that Ian's Merrick is awakening and he plans on killing him. The power Malcolm would gain from killing the Merrick would allow him to bring another Casus across the gate and into the modern world. While he waits for Ian's Merrick to fully awaken, he'll take pleasure in raping and murdering Ian's old lovers.
Ian and Molly soon get help from the Consortium, an ancient organization charged with the task of watching the supernatural happenings around the world. They've kept track of the Buchanan bloodline for centuries, awaiting the day when the Merrick genes would awaken. They figure that with the centuries long absence of the Casus, the Merrick has not been needed and thus has remained dormant in the bloodline.
Meanwhile, the Consortium informs Ian that his Merrick needs to feed in order to be strong enough to defeat the immortal Casus and send it's soul back to the Meridian. Ian is still terrified of the beast trying to crawl it's way to the surface and he can't help but think that he'll tear Molly apart while draining her dry. Molly knows that the Merrick won't hurt her. Ian would never let any harm come to her and the desire burring between them is becoming nearly unbearable. Although they've come together twice in their shared dreams, nothing compares to reality and Molly hopes that she'll succeed in seducing Ian but all she gets is heartache.
Ian's best form of defense is attack. Being verbally hurtful to Molly seems his best course of fending Molly off from her determination that he feed from her. The very thought of her blood arouses and sickens him at the same time. All Ian can think is that he'll kill her.
He turned away from her, ready to escape and slam the door behind him, when she said, "Then you're the biggest coward I've ever known."
"Is that really what you think?" he asked without facing her, his hands fisting and flexing at his sides, while his pulse echoed through his skull like a deafening primal roar.
Softly, she said, "What else am I supposed to think, Ian?"
"Dammit, I know you're not stupid," he growled. "You know I'm trying to protect you."
"Is it me you're trying to protect? Or is it you?"
As the murdered women begin to pile up and Ian still refuses to drink blood from Molly, the Consortium tries to interfere. Ian must feed and strengthen the Merrick if he has any hope of walking away from the Casus alive. But the plan backfires horribly. Still determined not to feed and to protect Molly at all costs, Ian decides to draw the Casus onto his own ground and vacates Henning, Colorado for South Carolina and his childhood home. Leaving instructions with the Consortium members to inform Molly that she's to go home, her job is done and Ian basically no longer has use for her. It was the coward's way out but Ian fears that being within any visible proximity of Molly will bring the Merrick forth with the unsatisfied desire for her blood.
Enraged, Molly takes off after Ian. She knows that he needs her help and this time she's not going to back down.
Ian's a difficult hero to like and certainly doesn't make it easy for the reader to understand his emotions. I found that I had to step out of the picture a few times and think about why Ian is behaving so stubborn and so hateful toward Molly. He's a man terrified by the realities of his dark nature. He fights admirably to keep the Merrick deep down and locked inside of him, hating the terror that it may overcome him and he'll be no better than the Casus. Ian does feel guilty at times for shutting Molly out and sending out hurtful barbs to drive her away. He thinks that this will protect her, not only from him but the Casus as well. In truth, he responded like a man - stubborn til the very end. It also takes Ian a long time to realize his love for Molly. His lust, he gets, but this driving need to protect her is something wholly unfamiliar to him.
I thought Ian was very lucky that Molly understood not only the secret to his defenses, but also that she loved him. She recognized his caring soul beneath the harsh facade when she witnessed Ian's remorse over his past lovers' and their horrific deaths. She understands his need to protect her. Molly's decision to wear her heart on her sleeve in hopes of getting through to Ian was crazy as it was perfect. The girl sucks up her pride more times than I could ever hope to count. It took a lot of bravery on Molly's end to expose herself so intimately to Ian knowing that he'll attack her verbally and break her heart time and again in an effort to force her away. Knowing myself, I could never hand my heart over to man like Ian. I'm too prideful but Molly certainly is fearless and she's definitely earned my respect.
Interested in 'Edge of Hunger'? Visit Rhyannon Byrd for More Details!
Look for Book 2 and Book 3 in the Primal Instinct Series Coming May and June 2009!


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Like most photographers, I like to travel. I tend mostly to record the beauty I've seen, both in nature and in the things we human's have constructed, be it a window, a staircase or a whole facade. I like to use my photographs grouped together in order to tell their story. With that in mind, putting them together in book form gives me great satisfaction.
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Spring in the West 2014 Daily Planner Published November 03, 2013
In search of old England Published October 30, 2013
A slice of France 2013 Daily Planner Published December 01, 2012
Our voyage with Caroline Published November 04, 2012
A path well trod Published November 18, 2011
Cobblestoned streets and Historic cities Barb Butler Published April 26, 2011
Treasures of Eastern Europe 2010 (with a touch of UK) Published December 11, 2010
Dear Brooster ........... Your Henny Published November 01, 2009

subset: commoncrawl


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Dean of Students
The Dean of Students' Office assists in both the in- and out-of-class development of Saint Xavier University as an advocate for students, ensuring that student services programs are designed and carried out to support and complement the academic mission of the University. The Dean of Students' Office is part of the Student Affairs division at Saint Xavier University.
The dean of students' area includes Campus Life, Student Activities, Orientation and New Student Programs, Residence Life, WXAV Radio, The Xavierite student newspaper, and the student conduct system, and is available to assist students.
Contact Information
Warde Academic Center, L-103
Phone: 773-341-5060
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
- Eileen P. Doherty, Ph.D, Dean of Students
- Katy Thompson, Associate Dean of Students and Director of Residence Life
- Samantha Maher Sheahan, Assistant Dean of Students for Campus Life


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Dear Old Golden Rule Days
By Rebecca Teti
Fridays: Education
(Join each day's Coffee Talk discussion: Mon: Parenting; Tues: Open Forum; Wed: NFP; Thu: Marriage; Fri: Education; Sat/Sun: Changing Roles)
Whether your children attend school or are homeschooled, this is the spot to ask questions about curricula, religious education, parent-teacher relationships, or academic concerns of any kind.
Please join us!
Looking for advice from moms who have been through middle school here. My oldest of 4 is a very good student. She works hard, and always has A grades or better. I will admit that I don't monitor her work very closely, she is very independent and does the work on her own. This quarter ends today, and I looked up her grades and discovered she will receive an 81 in Algebra. The rest of her grades are all 95+ in all subjects, and Algebra is an advanced class for her in 7th grade. Now, I don't want to be a Tiger Mom or anything, but on closer inspection, she received 95-100 on all tests and quizzes, but 60-70s on homework and notebook checks, bringing the average down. I asked her why she didn't ask for help on the homework if she needed it, and she shut down. She says we expect too much, it isn't fair to question her about an 81, the rest of her grades are great, etc. I want to tell her that we will be going over her math homework with her from now on each night, but when I mentioned it, she broke down again and told me I thought she was stupid and only focused on the bad not the good (not true, we give her a lot of praise). OK, I know 12 almost 13 year old girls are emotional, and I know an 81 isn't a bad grade, but given how she got the grade, I want to monitor homework a little more closely. What do you all think? Is this worth her feeling that we aren't proud of her and don't trust her, or should I let her work it out next quarter. I do know that she is devastated that she won't be on the Honor Roll this quarter for the first time because of this grade. Should I continue to talk about it with her, or should I reach out to the teacher for homework guidelines? I don't want this to be something that drives us apart just when I know she needs us most - teen years and all. Thanks for any advice and prayers.
Hello Danielle, Could you possibly just have a talk with her and tell her you are very proud that she has been tackling this very difficult class and has done really well. Let her know that 81 is not terrible, but it can be improved upon. Also, let her know that your job is to ensure that she does well and to help her out when things get a bit tough. Then tell her that you will monitor every day for 2 weeks, then once a week for 2 more weeks. If she is doing well, then she is on her own until the end of the quarter. So praise but also make her know that you are there to help get through the tough stuff. Prayers and I hope this works.
possibility, thank you for the suggestion. I will try to have the conversation you suggested, it sounds like a great plan.
Danielle M, about how much time does your daughter spend doing homework daily? It seems to me that the majority of schools seem to be piling it on these days. My niece, for example, does 1-2 hours of homework every day in first grade, which I think is ridiculous! I'm asking because I believe that balance is important. If your daughter, who is obviously very bright, is spending most of her time making those 95-100s and spending little time relaxing/being creative/spending time with friends, I'd let the 81 slide. It's still a respectable grade, especially for a 7th grader in Algebra!
Danielle M- I certainly think that it is OK to push your dtr to do her best when you know she isn't right now! I think if she shuts you down during the conversation you plan to have you have some other options. You could tell her that you know she can do better and let her be the one to solve the problem - Ask her how she plans to do it. Treat her like an adult (but expect her to act like a kid). Empower her to solve this problem! It sounds like she wants to. Alternatively, you could just back off for another quarter. Just tell her quickly that you know she can do better, you are there for her always if she wants help and if she's not doing better at the end of the semester, you can try stepping in again. One slightly low grade at this stage is no big deal in the long run, but allowing her to solve the problem on her own, may make a big difference in her ability to solve future problems. Good luck!
Thank you for the additional comments. I guess my big problem with the grade is it came on things she has control over, rather than tests/quizzes. But DW, you are right, she spends hours on homework every night, we hardly get to see her except when she comes out to do her chores, so there is probably too much. I appreciate all the advice, we'll work on a calmer conversation in a day or so.


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More wet weather ahead
Published: Tuesday, April 30, 2013 at 12:30 a.m.
Last Modified: Monday, April 29, 2013 at 10:16 p.m.
Today: Overcast with thunderstorms and a chance of rain. High of 72F. Winds from the NE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%. Tonight: Mostly cloudy. Low of 59F. Winds from the ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
For more local weather and live radar information, go to www.StarNewsOnline.com/weather.
Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.


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Courtesy: Spencer Farrin (Moscow, Idaho)
|Soccer earns team academic honor
MOSCOW, Idaho – The University of Idaho women's soccer team was honored with the Women's Team Academic Award from the National Soccer Coaches Association of America this week.
"It's testament to the hard work the girls put in off the pitch and it complements what they do on the pitch," Idaho head coach Pete Showler said. "Their studious habits are the reason that they get recognized at the national level as a team, but it's also down to support from our athletic director, Rob Spear, and his administrative staff, and also our academic support staff, Ana, Tom, Dana and Nikita."
The Vandal women posted a 3.46 combined team grade-point average in 2010-11 to earn recognition among the 571 women's teams selected from all NCAA divisions. Idaho's team GPA was the highest among the six Western Athletic Conference schools honored with the award.
Idaho went 8-11-3 this season and finished the year with its first-ever WAC Tournament victory and an appearance in the semifinal round of the conference tournament.
"They're a very supportive group as a team on the academic side," Showler said. "You're always proud as a coach when they match their endeavors off the pitch with those on, giving full testament to the term, 'student-athlete.' As a coaching staff, we're very proud of their achievement."


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Paul Donald Justin
Position: QB
Height: 6-4 Weight: 211 lbs.
Born: May 19, 1968 in Schaumburg, IL
High School: Schaumburg
College: Arizona St. (school history) (Justin college stats)
Drafted by the Chicago Bears in the 7th round (190th overall) of the 1991 NFL Draft.
Weighted Career AV (100-95-...): 8 (7842nd overall since 1950)
Other SR Links: College Football at Sports-Reference.com


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Posted January 25, 2013 by Rich Johnston
From Amazing Spider-Man #14. No one coughs blood on panel without reason. Unless of course, Aunt May is a mutant and this is a terrigenesis cloud… Of course, if she does die (again), there's always the Jackal… Send in the clone Mays.
While the new trailer for Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children gives more background on why the children our peculiar, why they hide and who is searching for them, Miss Peregrine warns that not everything has been discovered. Is that true or does this trailer give up a little too much? Miss Peregrine's Home for… Read more »
While chatting with Chris Strompolos and Eric Zala, the subjects of the new documentary Raiders! The Story of the Greatest Fan Film Ever Made, Bleeding Cool learned that most important opinion of an Indiana Jones fan: their views on Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. "My ranking of the movies coincides chronologically so far…. Read more »
Archie Comics has teased a partnership with famed designer Rachel Antonoff to launch Betty & Veronica fashion line. Antonoff is a fashion designer based out of New York City. She creative ways to debut her designs, including as a murder mystery, as a sock hop, and in a dollhouse. She also worked with Lena Dunham to promote… Read more »
Dark Horse's upcoming hit has been described as "Rat Queens meets Firefly," and with a description like that, it's easy to go in feeling charged. The comic is called Bounty, and it's written by Rat Queens creator Kurtis Wiebe, with art by Mindy Lee. Wiebe has expressed how thankful he is for his Rat Queens following, but the content of that comic is far from all-ages. … Read more »
There are no dragons, but there are spoilers in the following review. Fantasy films are tough. Really, really tough. If you think about the last decent fantasy flick — of the swords, dark lords and medieval societies type — you're probably looking at The Fellowship of the Ring or The Two Towers. And prior to… Read more »


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The Citizen Corps in Fairfax County
Watch The Citizen Corps in Fairfax County
Preparedness is important when emergencies arise. The Fairfax County Citizen Corps promotes emergency preparedness with the help of Fairfax County's Fire, Police, and Health Departments. This program gives an in-depth look at how each agency uses their volunteer base, and offers resources on how residents can become involved in volunteering in the Citizen Corps. (CC)
Channel 16 Schedule
- Monday at 12 p.m.
- Friday at 1:30 p.m.
The Citizen Corps in Fairfax County can also be seen
on your computer at the above days and times
with Live Video Streaming or anytime with


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Students at Delmarva Christian High School in Georgetown participated in several volunteer activities last month that benefitted local and global communities.
Those efforts included a shoe donation drive with the Newark-based Shoes 2 Share organization and a Christmas gift collection drive that benefitted residents of the Delaware Veterans Home in Milford.
In early December, the students donated five large bins of new and used footwear to Shoes 2 Share in response to challenge from Tim Wampler, the president and co-founder of the charitable ministry, which provides shoes to people in need around the world.
Students also donated more than 200 gift items for local veterans to give to their family and friends on Christmas as part of a school campaign called "Veterans Need Love." The donated items included candles, lotions, clothing, blankets, ornaments, jewelry, toys, books, and gift cards.
Located on Airport Road, Delmarva Christian High School is a non-denominational, faith-based school that serves more than 180 students in ninth through twelfth grades.
Location, ST | website.com


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Here's the conundrum: "We all want to keep living; we just don't want to age," says Michael Rafael Moreno, MD, author of The 17 Day Plan to Stop Aging. But while we can't help growing older, he notes, "by taking the right steps, we can mitigate some of the inevitable changes that occur as time passes."
To help you gauge whether you're at risk for aging faster than necessary, More developed a quiz with the help of some of the country's top medical experts. You'll answer questions relating to four major body systems: those connected with circulation, bones, immunity and breathing. Your results may differ from system to system, because you can age slowly in some areas, such as your heart, but not in others, such as your bones. After each section, we provide strategies for turning back the clock—or at least lessening the marks of time. When putting together your age-more-slowly plan, you should, of course, discuss any possible lifestyle and medication changes with your physician.
Quiz 1: Your Heart and Arteries
1. Take your pulse after sitting quietly for five minutes. (If you can't find yours, use a heart-rate monitor.)
Your heart rate is:
A) 80 or fewer beats per minute (bpm)
B) More than 80 bpm
Your resting heart rate is a well-known indicator of the efficiency of your circulatory system. A number below 60 bpm means you're in great shape, 60 to 80 is about average, and consistently more than 80 (and especially above 100) is cause for concern. Heart rates can get higher as you age, and research in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that these jumps really boost the odds of dying from heart disease. For instance, study participants who moved from the 70-to-85 bpm category to the over-85 bpm group were 80 percent more likely to experience fatal heart problems over the almost 10-year research period than those who remained in the initial group.
2. Try this test: Exercise hard on a stationary bike or walking surface until you're totally exhausted. Stop and immediately check your pulse, then wait 60 seconds and check your pulse again. The difference between the first postexercise heart rate and the second one is:
A) 18 or more bpm
B) Fewer than 18 bpm
If your heart rate takes a long time to return to normal, there may be a potentially unhealthy imbalance between your sympathetic nervous system (which revs you up) and the parasympathetic one (which slows you down), says Bohdan Pichurko, MD, a pulmonologist at the Cleveland Clinic. People with slow recovery rates are more likely than others to experience heart problems.
3 Pull out a measuring tape. How big is your waist?
A) 35 inches or less
B) More than 35 inches
Carrying body fat around your middle rather than your hips and thighs increases your odds of developing heart disease and other problems. A recently developed risk-assessment tool (called A Body Shape Index, or ABSI) shows the health impact of fat distribution by combining your waist measurement with the height-and-weight numbers required for calculating the widely used body mass index (BMI). Consider a 45-year-old woman who is five foot six, weighs 140 pounds and has a 35-inch waist. Her BMI is 24, which is in the normal range and suggests she has an average life expectancy. But the more accurate ABSI catapults her risk for early death to 60 percent higher than average—a definite wake-up call. To find your numbers, go to more.com/absi.
4. What is your family history of early heart disease?
A) None
B) Your father or brother had a heart attack before age 55, or your mother or sister had one before age 65
If you have one parent or sibling who suffered from heart disease, you are twice as likely as women without that history to experience a heart attack; your risk quadruples if two close relatives had heart disease. The good news: Inherited risk factors for heart disease, such as a propensity for hypertension or high LDL (bad) cholesterol, can often be significantly ameliorated with medication.
TOTAL B's: _____
If you checked one or more B's, keep reading for slow-down-the-clock strategies.
Your Action Plan
Because your heart is a muscle, you can strengthen it through aerobic workouts: The American Heart Association suggests doing, each week, at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise (such as brisk walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise (such as running). "If you exercise regularly and don't have any underlying heart disease, your heart can actually become more efficient with age," notes Moreno. "An older person can have the heart of a very young person." Aerobic workouts will lower your heart rate and improve your heart-recovery rate.
In addition, a study in the September issue of the American Journal of Medicine confirmed the wisdom of eating a diet packed with plant-based foods. Over a 10-year period, women with the highest intake of heart-healthy antioxidants—they averaged seven servings of fruits and vegetables a day—experienced 20 percent fewer heart attacks than those who ate just 2.4 daily servings.
Here are other good ways to improve your circulatory system:
Eat more low-fat yogurt
In research presented at an American Heart Association meeting this fall, adults who consumed six ounces of low-fat yogurt at least every three days over a 15-year period were significantly less likely than others in the study to develop high blood pressure. The finding is important because hypertension, defined as a reading of 140/90 mm Hg and above, tends to increase with age and is dangerous if not treated: It boosts your risk of heart attack and stroke threefold. Why would yogurt benefit your arteries? "It could be because dairy products are high in potassium, and we know that potassium has a blood-pressure-lowering effect," says Rachel Johnson, PhD, RD, professor of medicine and nutrition at the University of Vermont in Burlington. "Potassium lessens the effects of sodium on blood pressure," she explains.
Up your C
In trials lasting eight weeks on average, taking about 500 milligrams (mg) of vitamin C was associated with a reduction in blood pressure of 3.84 mm Hg for healthy subjects and 4.85 mm Hg for hypertensive ones—much less than the typical 10 mm Hg dip that comes from taking blood pressure drugs such as ACE inhibitors and diuretics but still clinically significant. Cautioning that the results are preliminary, the Johns Hopkins researchers speculate that vitamin C acts like a diuretic, helping the kidneys remove more water and sodium so blood vessel walls relax and lower blood pressure.
Change your oil
If you're up for cooking every day with a fairly exotic blend of oils—a mix that's 20 percent sesame oil and 80 percent rice-bran oil—then you might dramatically lower some of your risk factors for heart disease, according to a just-published study. After two months of frying or otherwise cooking with an ounce a day of this blend, hypertensive adults saw a 26 percent drop in LDL cholesterol and a 9.5 percent increase in HDL, the good kind. Their blood pressure also fell 14 points. The high antioxidant content of these two oils is probably responsible for the health benefits, says lead author Devarajan Sankar, MD, a research scientist in the department of cardiovascular disease at Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital in Chikushino, Japan. If you can't find these oils at your local supermarket, go to Amazon.com.
Quiz 2: Your Bones
1. How much alcohol do you drink?
A) On average, one to two drinks a day
B) Either no alcohol or three or more drinks a day
Your bones seem solid, but they are actually in a constant state of flux during which old minerals are removed and new ones added. If your bones lose more matter than they gain, they can become brittle and fracture easily—a situation that accelerates after menopause, when your body's production of estrogen drastically declines. Experts estimate that about half of non-Hispanic Caucasian and Asian women over 50 have low bone density; a fifth suffer from the serious bone thinning called osteoporosis. According to a small study published this year in Menopause, moderate drinking improves your bones' ability to rebuild. On the other hand, too much alcohol—three or more drinks a day—seems to damage the remodeling process.
2. How much height have you lost since you were 25?
A) None, or less than two inches
B) Two or more inches
A study in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that older women who reported shrinking two or more inches in stature were nearly 50 percent more likely than others to fracture their hips as they aged. One possible reason for this association is that height loss can result from undiagnosed, silent fractures in the spine, indicating that skeletal bones are weak, says lead author Teresa A. Hillier, MD, an endocrinologist and senior investigator at Kaiser Permanente Northwest in Portland, Oregon.
3. How does the flab in your abdomen feel?
A) Soft and squishy; I can easily pinch it with my fingers
B) Hard to the touch, buried deep below the skin
For years, doctors assumed that obese women had extra protection from osteoporosis, because the added pounds might make bones stronger. However, a Harvard Medical School study of overweight women found that those with high levels of deep abdominal (or visceral) fat had less dense bones than those whose fat was just below the skin (the pinchable, subcutaneous fat). This is likely because visceral fat affects the body's hormones, and hormones influence bone breakdown and rebuilding, says study author Miriam A. Bredella, MD, associate professor of radiology.
4. As an adult, have you broken your wrist, ankle or other bones after tripping?
A) No
B) Yes
Along with your T-score (a measure of bone density provided by a bone scan), a previous history of broken bones is a common predictor of hip and other fractures later in life. Your experience factors into an algorithm developed by the World Health Organization that estimates your odds of breaking a bone within the next 10 years. While this formula, called FRAX, is most accurate if you have taken a bone-density test and know your T-score, you can still estimate your risk level (at shef.ac.uk/FRAX) without that number.
TOTAL B's: _____
If you checked one or more B's, keep reading for slow-down-the-clock strategies.
Your Action Plan
First, boost your intake of calcium so there's more available for your bones to use. The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends 1,000 mg per day of total calcium for women under 50 and 1,200 for those 50 and older. Second, stimulate your bones' uptake of that calcium by doing at least two 30- to 45-minute sessions of strength training each week. In the classic 1994 study proving the benefits of this regimen, postmenopausal women who worked out for a year gained 1 percent of bone mass, while nonexercisers lost 2 percent, notes Wayne Westcott, PhD, director of exercise science at Quincy College in Massachusetts.
Additional bone boosters:
Take more than 800 IU of D a day
Getting 800 IU or more of vitamin D a day lowered the risk for hip fractures by 30 percent and non-spine-related fractures by 14 percent in a large study that appeared in the New England Journal of Medicine. Most of the participants were over 65, and more than 90 percent were women. A dose of 800 IU is generally considered safe; 4,000 IU is the upper limit.
Switch to a Mediterranean diet loaded with olive oil
You already know that a Mediterranean diet—one filled with grains, vegetables, legumes, fruits, nuts, olive oil and fish but low in meat—reduces the risk of heart disease. Now a Spanish study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology shows that including a specific minimum amount of olive oil (almost 3½tablespoons) a day for two years also boosts blood levels of a marker for bone formation. In other words, the olive oil helps preserve your bones.
Go easy on the cola (diet or otherwise)
Women who drink cola everyday have 3.7 to 5.4 percent less bone density in their hips than those who consume less than one daily serving, says a study led by Katherine L. Tucker, PhD, now professor of nutritional epidemiology at Northeastern University in Boston. Drinking other carbonated soft drinks has no effect. Cola's impact may stem partly from its caffeine content (caffeine has a negative impact on bone density) but probably also from its phosphorus level. "When you take in regular doses of phosphorus without consuming other nutrients at the same time, calcium in your body may bind to the phosphorus and thus become unavailable for bone remodeling. Over time this could lead to bone loss," says Tucker.
Quiz 3: Your Defense System
1. You used to get one or two colds a year; in the past few years, you've gotten:
A) None, one or two a year
B) Three or more a year; it seems as if anytime someone sneezes near you, you catch a respiratory infection
"The immune system has many germ-stopping safeguards, such as your skin, which blocks invaders from entering, and antibodies, which disable them," says Roxanne Sukol, MD, medical director of the Cleveland Clinic's Wellness Enterprise. "If you're getting sick a lot, some part of that system may not be working as it should."
2. Your stress level is . . .
A) Manageable
B) More than you can handle
A large body of research says that long-term stress lowers the effectiveness of your immune system, making you more likely to develop diseases and increasing the time it takes to recover from them.
3. How much sleep do you typically get?
A) Less than seven hours a night
B) Seven or more hours a night
Sleep deprivation suppresses your immune system by, for example, lowering the activity level of natural killer cells. In a 2009 Archives of Internal Medicine article, researchers demonstrated that this reduced resistance affects your ability to fend off infections. Sleep quality matters, too, reports a study in the online Journal of Aging Research. Compared with women who said they sleep well, those who reported troubled slumber had immune cells with shorter telomeres, or chromosome endings. This means women who slept poorly had immune cells that were biologically older than other women's.
4. In general, how do you feel?
A) Pretty good
B) Not as good as you think you should
"If you don't feel quite healthy, if you feel tired or rundown, these are clues that your immune system is flagging," says Moreno.
TOTAL B's: _____
If you checked one or more B's, keep reading for slow-down-the-clock strategies.
Your Action Plan
It's a fact of aging: The immune system tends to become less effective at fending off disease, says Moreno. Your arsenal, in effect, becomes smaller: You produce fewer antibodies, natural killer cells and white blood cells, especially a type known as T cells that protect you from bacteria, viruses and cancer cells. But, says Moreno, you can bolster your system by following a healthy diet, one packed with nutrientrich fruits, vegetables and lean protein; getting enough sleep; and trying to reduce stress.
More suggestions:
A regular mindfulness-meditation routine may help you sail through cold and flu season without much—or even any—sniffling, according to a study in the Annals of Family Medicine that tracked upper respiratory infections among a group of healthy middle-aged adults for eight months after they had undergone training in the technique. Compared with a control group, those who meditated caught fewer respiratory-tract infections, and when they did get ill, their symptoms were 60 percent milder and lasted for 43 percent less time. Plus, they had fewer sick days.
You can find a training program in mindfulness meditation near you at more.com/mindful. Or read Real Happiness: The Power of Meditation—A 28-Day Program, by Sharon Salzberg.
Eat less
A small study done at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University found that cutting calories by either 10 percent or 30 percent over a six-month period helped a group of overweight adults drop pounds and improve the functioning of their T cells. The improvements were greatest for those who reduced their eating the most.
Take up laughter yoga
Laughing has been shown to boost your immune functions. Moreno recommends getting your healthy quota of chuckles by taking up laughter yoga, a combination of movement and laughter developed in 1995 by a Mumbai physician named Madan Kataria. At social clubs (find one at laughteryoga.org) led by volunteers, participants clap, dance and do improv-like exercises, which generally lead to laughter. If this sounds too weird, you can also seek out guffaws by watching YouTube, Moreno suggests.
Quiz 4: Your Lungs
1. When you climb stairs or run for a bus, do you feel more winded than you might have a few years ago?
A) No
B) Yes
The concern isn't so much what you can do now as how much you have slipped from your previous perch, says the Cleveland Clinic's Bohdan Pichurko. The good news: Everyone has plenty of spare capacity, so lung function has to drop pretty far before you're in trouble.
2. Which phrase better describes where you live?
A) A quiet, hardly traveled street
B) A road with heavy traffic
Swedish researchers discovered that people whose homes are closer than 300 feet to a road where an average of 10 or more cars pass each minute are more likely to develop allergic asthma. While they can't be absolutely certain that car exhaust brings on the asthma, other studies have found similar correlations, notes study coauthor Anna Lindgren, MD.
3. In the past 15 years, you have smoked cigarettes:
A) Never or almost never
B) Anywhere from a single cigarette a day to several packs a day
The more you smoke, the greater the chance you have of dying from lung cancer. But even light puffing, which is on the rise in this country, poses serious risks. According to one review, women ages 35 to 49 who smoke one to four cigarettes a day have quintuple the risk of developing lung cancer that nonsmokers have.
4. Think back to your last cold. your accompanying cough:
A) Stopped completely within a month
B) Remained after a month
A lingering cough could be a sign of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Other symptoms of this serious condition include shortness of breath, wheezing and lots of phlegm. While smokers and ex-smokers are especially prone, people exposed to lung irritants like air pollution are also vulnerable, says Donald Rollins, MD, associate professor in the pulmonary division at National Jewish Health in Denver. "You could be in the early stages and not have a clue," he says. Make sure to get checked out by a doctor.
TOTAL B's: _____
If you checked one or more B's, keep reading for slow-down-the-clock strategies.
Your Action Plan
"By the time we hit our forties, we often become breathless after racing up stairs, running to the gate to catch a flight or having sex," says Moreno. "But aging doesn't cause breathlessness. If you walk, jog, swim or bike regularly—and do not smoke—you have enough respiratory capacity to breathe easy throughout your life." For further protection, do as much as you can to prevent colds or flu, which could lead to lung infections (e.g., wash your hands frequently). And try to maintain a healthy weight. "Carrying extra pounds in your torsoand abs makes it harder for your diaphragm to expand. It's as if someone were sitting on your stomach," says Moreno.
More advice:
Exercise your chest muscles
Strengthening the muscles that stretch from your neck to your collarbone and out to the ends of your shoulders—the ones that lift when you inhale deeply—can make breathing more efficient, says Marie Budev, MD, medical director of the lung and heart-lung transplant program at the Cleveland Clinic. She recommends 20 minutes of hand pedaling a day with a $50-to-$70 mini cycling machine you can pick up at a sporting goods store. Any arm-strengthening exercise will also work.
Avoid outdoor and indoor pollution
Steer clear of any place filled with smoke, air pollution or chemicals, Moreno counsels, and don't exercise outdoors on bad air-quality days (the faster you inhale, the more pollutants you breathe in). And if you cook on a gas stove, protect yourself from the high pollution levels it produces by cooking on the back burner and turning on an over-the-range hood.
Practice deep breathing
Several studies suggest that doing yoga regularly can improve your lung capacity, and the benefit seems to stem mainly from its breathing exercises, according to a recent review in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. Moreno recommends doing a simple exercise called straw breathing a few times a week. Start by putting a straw in your mouth. Then "pinch your nose and keep your lips sealed around the straw. Breathe for one minute. If you feel dizzy, stop," he says.
Additional reporting by Norine Dworkin-McDaniel.
Next: Is Your Digestive System Aging Too Fast?
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Ashlee and Scott Cammack wedding
All photos by Eric Baillies
I am a freelance photographer that shoots a wide variety of subjects & events. I encourage you to check out my photo art here - http://flickr.com/photos/ebaillies/sets/72157607763902889/ And my wedding website here - www.elitevideophoto.com Thanks, Eric Baillies
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Christine and Joey Wedding Published November 25, 2013
Aaron and Kelli Hughes Wedding Published September 16, 2013
Lance and Sara Smith Published December 03, 2012
AJ and Christian Wedding Published November 20, 2012
Matt and DJ Published November 05, 2012
Paul & Terry Wedding Published August 03, 2012
Jennifer Johnson and David Keokanya wedding Published June 21, 2012
Maggie and Kiley wedding Published January 23, 2012


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Keep an eye out for trolls folks. We've had 2 in the last 12 hours and I expect more what with the recent news events.
Please don't respond to them just use the report post link at the top right corner of the post.
like this in the blue skin:
like this in the green skin:
FYI:Kind of a form of internet fishing. They post argumentative remarks and see who takes the bait.An Internet troll, or simply troll in Internet slang, is someone who posts controversial, inflammatory, irrelevant or off-topic messages in an online community, such as an online discussion forum or chat room, with the primary intent of provoking other users into an emotional response or to generally disrupt normal on-topic discussion.
Bruce, Life Member: NRA, NCRPA, GRNC, GOA
Naval Air Museum Barbers Point
"I personally think we developed language because of our deep inner need to complain."--Jane Wagner
"The saddest aspect of life right now is that science gathers knowledge faster than society gathers wisdom."
-Isaac Asimov


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For a gender bending glam/punk rock musical born in downtown New York City, forever referencing Cold War Berlin, "Hedwig and the Angry Inch" felt right at home in Park City's Egyptian Theatre during the Friday night performance. Would it be a little jarring for longtime "HedHeads" (as the musical's devoted fans are known) to see the titular superstar in a brunette wig instead of her trademark platinum? It really doesn't matter, as Aaron Swenson (who starred in the prior 2003 and 2005 Plan-B Theatre Company runs, which were also directed by Producing Director Jerry Rapier) excelled in the role with his strong vocals and stage presence. He manifested both pieces of the Platonic puzzle of Hedwig and Tommy Gnosis in a powerful version of the finale. And what of the poor, put upon husband and bandmate Yitzhak? Latoya Rhodes lent good tragicomedic timing and a beautiful voice to the only other active part in the play.
Latoya Rhodes (left) and Aaron Swenson (Photo: planbtheatre.org)
There may have been missed opportunities in lighting and set designs, not to mention the backdrop slide illustrations of "The Origin of Love" which were nondescript and didn't convey the touching power of the song. However, the costume design was particularly refreshing. Hedwig starts as a brunette, amps up the glam in an inevitable Lady Gaga look (unless you choose to believe it was Dale Bozzio of Missing Persons), and then sports a righteous punk mohawk until the end. Here's to you Mrs. Robinson.
It's not too late to catch the show at The Egyptian Theater, 328 Main St., Park City; Saturday, June 16 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, June 17 at 6 p.m. Tickets are available through The Egyptian Theatre's website or at the theater box office.


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I call Dibs!!!!!!!!! Everyone back the **** off!!!!!!!!
I call Dibs!!!!!!!!! Everyone back the **** off!!!!!!!!
I guess Parker's re-upping with exciting San Antonio was the last straw.
Says she found a bunch of text between Tony and another woman on his jack.
a teammates wife? holy **** thats crossing the line loll
John terry the soccer player did that and got booed everywhere he went.
I really don't find Eva hot at all. I mean I wouldn't kick her out of bed, but I just don't see it.
gotta love celebrity gossip
I still can't get over how stupid people are. I'd never cheat on my woman, I'd have the balls to end it first if that's where it was going.


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Going into this past weekend the men's basketball team knew how important both games were. On Friday the Yellow Jackets took on Mayville State University. Mayville beat the Yellow Jackets in their last meeting 79-84 at Mayville. The Comets got off to a fast start taking a 2-8 lead. BHSU would then fight back and eventually go on a run to close the first half 46-39. In the second half the Yellow Jackets came out on fire and they stretched their lead to double figures and never looked back. The Yellow Jacket won the game 119-65. Black Hills State was led by sophomore Parker Emerson with 31 points. Freshman Cain Atkinson had 22 points. Freshmen Luke Enos and Will John Johnson combined for 27 points and 12 rebounds. Freshman Travis Haney added 10 points.
On Saturday Dakota State entered the game fresh of a last second win against South Dakota School of Mines the night before. The Yellow Jackets got off to a fast start in this one taking a 10 point lead early and stretching that to 15 points going into halftime 41-26. In the second half the lead grew to 20 points as the Yellow Jackets took the game 69-49. Black Hills State was led by freshman Cain Atkinson with 21 points. Sophomore Parker Emerson added 11 points.
The 13-12 Yellow Jackets will travel this weekend to Valley City State University and Jamestown College. They will return home the following week as they play host to rival South Dakota School of Mines on Wednesday, February 20th.
BHSU vs Mayville State University Article - by Rapid City Journal
BHSU vs Dakota State University Article - by Rapid City Journal
Atkinson Honored by DAC


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Easter in Old Constantinople 2009
Easter is one of the major holidays of the Christian World and exploring Istanbul during the Easter Break is a great idea.
Byzantium, Constantinople, Istanbul… no other city in the world is set on two continents… no other city in the world used to be the capital of two mighty empires (Byzantine and Ottoman)… and, no other city in the world is as irresistible as irresistanbul... more »
Saint Antoine Church Istanbul
Sant'Antonio di Padova, alternatively known as S. Antonio di Padova, St. Antoine or St. Antuan, is the largest cathedral of the Roman Catholic Church in Istanbul. It is located on Istiklal Avenue in the Beyoglu district.
Along with the St. Esprit Cathedral (1846) in the Harbiye district, St. Louis of the French (1581) and Santa Maria Draperis in Beyoglu, Sts. Peter and Paul (1841) in Galata, Assumption Church in the Moda quarter of Kadikoy, St. Stephen in Yesilkoy and Bakirkoy Church in Bakirkoy, it is one of the most important Catholic churches in Istanbul, and among them has the largest community following its masses. more »
IDEF 2009 – 9TH International Defence Industry Fair
IDEF-2009, 9th International Defence Industry Fair, which will be held between 27-30 April 2009, has become the biggest event in the Eurasian region, thanks to its established structure and sustained success since 1993. IDEF is also an important promotion and marketing centre in the field of defence industry among the leading fairs around the world. more »
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Airborne Molecular Contamination Monitoring – Efficient Troubleshooting Techniques
July 28, 2016 at 10 AM MT / Sponsored by Particle Measuring Systems, Inc.
Decreasing the time to detect, contain and mitigate very low levels of Airborne Molecular Contamination (AMC) is critical for high tech manufacturers. Costs associated with AMC-related quality issues and yield losses are well understood, and adequate reduction of AMC is critical for clean manufacturers to stay competitive. Technical personnel need the flexibility to efficiently collect AMC data with good temporal-spatial resolution anywhere in the clean environment for both sustaining sample plans, as well as to collect site-specific data to converge on AMC sources during troubleshooting events. A brief overview of AMC will be presented along with the latest technology for efficiently identifying AMC sources in the cleanroom.
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Interconnection Technologies
June 2016 (Date and time TBD)/ Sponsored by Air ProductsThis webcast will examine the state-of-the-art in conductors and dielectrics, -- including contacts and Metal1 through global level -- pre-metal dielectrics, associated planarization, necessary etch, strip and cleans, embedded passives, global and intermediate TSVs for 3D, as well as reliability, system, and performance issues.
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Is the Semiconductor Industry Ready for Industry 4.0 and the IIoT?More Webcasts
June 2016 (Date and time TBD)/ Sponsored by Epicor and SiemensAn industrial revolution is in the making, equivalent some say to the introduction of steam power at the tail end of the 18th century. Known as smart manufacturing, Industry 4.0 (after the German initiative Industrie 4.0), the industrial internet of things (IIoT), or simply the fourth industrial revolution, the movement will radically change how manufacturing is done. Greater connectivity and information sharing -- enabled by new capabilities in data analytics, remote monitoring and mobility -- will lead to increased efficiency and reduced costs. There will be a paradigm shift from "centralized" to "decentralized" production. Semiconductor manufacturing has long been thought of as the most advanced manufacturing process in the world, but it's not clear if long-held beliefs about how proprietary data, such as process recipes, are managed. Industry experts will examine the potential for the semiconductor factory of the future, and discuss potential roadblocks.
Sponsored By:
Specialized Materials Meet Critical Packaging Needs in MEMS Devices
Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) present both unique market opportunities and significant manufacturing challenges for product designers in nearly every application segment. Used as accelerometers, pressure sensors, optical devices, microfluidic devices, and more, these microfabricated sensors and actuators often need to be exposed to the environment, but also need to be protected from environmental factors. Although standard semiconductor manufacturing methods provide a baseline capability in meeting these challenges, the unique requirements of MEMS devices drive a need for specialized epoxies and adhesives able to satisfy often-conflicting demands.May 12, 2016
Protecting Electronics with Parylene
This whitepaper provides a comprehensive overview of parylene conformal
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NMT: A Novel Technology for In-Line Ultra-Thin Film MeasurementsMore Technology Papers
XwinSys identified the semiconductors recent market trends and developed a novel XRF technology, named NMT: Noise-reduced Multilayer Thin-film measurement. This innovative approach can be used for in-line inspection and metrology features, to accurately and precisely analyze single and multi-layered elements in ultra-thin films. NMT novel technology can be utilized for in-line applications ranging from localized ultra-thin film stacks to the inspection of 3D localized features to the analysis of defects involving geometries, voids and material elements. February 23, 2016


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Orange You Spiky RecipeRead Reviews Be the first to add a review
- 6 chocolate or vanilla cupcakes baked in black foil liners
- 1 can (16 ounces) plus 1 cup vanilla frosting
- 1 cup chow mein noodles
- Red and yellow food coloring
- 12 honey wheat sticks or pretzel sticks
- 12 mini marshmallows
- 12 brown M&M's
- Chocolate jimmies
- 1. Spread the tops of the cupcakes with a small mound of vanilla frosting. Insert chow mein noodles into cupcakes to look like spikes. Place in the freezer for about 15 minutes to firm up.
- 2. Spoon 3 tablespoons of the vanilla frosting into a small resealable bag and set aside.
- 3. Tint the remaining frosting bright orange with the food coloring and spoon into a glass microwave-safe bowl. Microwave the frosting, stirring frequently, until it is the texture of slightly whipped cream.
- 4. Holding the foil liner of the slightly frozen cupcake, dip the top of the cupcake up to the liner in the melted frosting to coat. Use a spoon to add more frosting if necessary. Allow the excess frosting to drip off. Invert and transfer to a cookie sheet. Repeat with the remaining cupcakes.
- 5. Insert one end of a wheat stick into the side of a mini marshmallow. Repeat with the remaining marshmallows and wheat sticks. Snip a small corner from the bag with the vanilla frosting. Pipe a dot of frosting on one flat side of a marshmallow. Add a brown candy as the pupil. Add a few chocolate jimmies on the top as eyelashes. Pipe a dot of vanilla frosting on the brown candy as the sparkle in the eyes.
- 6. Insert two marshmallow eyes on top of a frosted cupcake about 1 in. apart. Repeat with the remaining cupcakes. Yield: 6 cupcakes.
Reviews for Orange You Spiky
"Very cute and easy, but time consuming. My niece made several Halloween desserts for a family dinner. The only change here was using the Halloween Confetti cake mix and all pretzels instead of the chow mein noodles."
"I haven't made these yet, but they are soo cute! However, it has been my experience that you should refrigerate cupcakes like this until serving time so the noodles won't be soggy. I've done that when I've put cookies on cupcakes to decorate them and it helped a lot."
"Very easy to create"
"Fun to look at but difficult to make and takes up lots of time. I tripled my recipe and could have used the same amount of frosting for one batch - way too much frosting suggested to buy. The noodles get soggy so you won't enjoy them, they're just for looks."
"I made these for our big family get together. With 13 kids I thought these would be perfect. I like to make my own frosting, and it didn't seem to cover as nicely as the picture. Very gloppy runny and messy. I also had a hard time getting the eyes to stay on. I don't know if that was a frosting issue as well. If I ever make these again, I think I will have to buy store bought frosting."


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When I see a cute girl in the grocery store I open her milk carton and spit in it when she's not looking so it's like we kissed
When I see a cute girl in the grocery store I open her milk carton and spit in it when she's not looking so it's like we kissed
im thinking about voting for hillary clinton
What is the piont of that. She just throws it away or complain to the manager.
Who would vote for her beside liberal women/gay rights people?
I really hate feminists who will vote for a female candidate solely because she's a WOMAN
= my mum.
eww, your mom is a horrible person then. feminists like that need to die
I don't have any strong feelings for the canidates yet. But I still have over a year to start caring.
Error does not become Truth because it is widely accepted;
Truth does not become error, even when it stands alone.
Paired with: Mex - Eve
I can't vote anyway so it doesn't matter to me.
I'm going to get a fake id and vote.
dogar are you religious in any fashion, or do you just hold the conservative views without the religious part?
I don't think I have any religion... dogar?
God danmit god.
I agree
When the Devil is too busy
And Death's a bit too much
They call on me by name you see,
For my special touch.
man do people get anything here
thread GAYED
Aborting this thread.
ITT is a Smogon invention. Never use it again or I really will bone you.
Smogon. Hmm...


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"A dusty road stretches into the distance like a pencil line across the arid landscape. Lions, rhino, and buffalo roam the plains on either side. But I haven't come to Kenya to spot wildlife. I've come to run."
Whether running is your recreation, your religion, or just a spectator sport, Adharanand Finn's incredible journey to the elite training camps of Kenya will captivate and inspire you. Part travelogue, part memoir, this mesmerizing quest to uncover the secrets of the world's greatest runners - and put them to the test - combines practical advice, a fresh look at barefoot running, and hard-won spiritual insights.
As a boy growing up in the English countryside, Adharanand Finn was a natural runner. While other kids struggled, he breezed through schoolyard races, imagining he was one of his heroes: the Kenyan long-distance runners exploding into prominence as Olympic and world champions. But as he grew up, pursued a career in journalism, married and had children, those childhood dreams slipped away - until suddenly, in his mid-thirties, Finn realized he might have only one chance left to see how far his talents could take him.
Uprooting his family of five, including three small children, Finn traveled to Iten, a small, chaotic town in the Rift Valley province of Kenya - a mecca for long-distance runners thanks to its high altitude, endless running paths, and some of the top training schools in the world. Finn would run side by side with Olympic champions, young hopefuls, and barefoot schoolchildren... not to mention the exotic - and sometimes dangerous - wildlife for which Kenya is famous.
Here, too, he would meet a cast of colorful characters, including his unflappable guide, Godfrey Kiprotich, a former half marathon champion; Christopher Cheboiboch, one of the fastest men ever to run the New York City Marathon; and Japhet, a poor, bucktoothed boy with unsuspected reservoirs of courage and raw speed. Amid the daily challenges of training and of raising a family abroad, Finn would learn invaluable lessons about running - and about life.
©2012 Adharanand Finn (P)2012 Random House Audio
"Equal parts cultural examination, cult-of-running treatise, and poignant memoir, Running with the Kenyans thrives on a variety of levels. Like the skilled distance runner he is, Finn paces this book marvelously and then saves the best for the final kick. This book packs all the pleasure and satisfaction - and none of the ancillary pain - of a long training run." (L. Jon Wertheim, senior editor, Sports Illustrated, and co-author of the New York Times best seller Scorecasting)
"Not everyone gets to heaven in their lifetime. Finn tried to run there, and succeeded. Running with the Kenyans is a great read." (Bernd Heinrich, author of Why We Run)
"If you want to know the secrets of Kenyan runners, and have a rollicking adventure along the way, join Finn in his fascinating tale of what it is to go stride for stride with the fastest people on Earth." (Neal Bascomb, author of The Perfect Mile)
"His Curiosity is Contagious"
My review might make you think Running With Kenyans was written for kids--if you don't have kids don't worry--the book is not a children's book. So please read on.
My son is a natural athlete loving all sports and in particular, he is an extraordinarily fast runner. He also is not a child who cares at all about Harry Potter. So mix those two things together and you have a mom trying to find a decent audio book on sports that is okay for an 8 year old, yet not poorly written (which many of the chapter books are--sorry but it's true). Somehow I got to Running With Kenyans in my search and I am very happy I did. Every night I read to the kids myself then put on an audio book for them to fall asleep. We also listen to audio books in the car sometimes. This book is read perfectly. The narration is top notch. The story unfolds slowly, and with an easy rhythm like that of the running he describes. I simply love his story and the way he told it and the way, in the end, John Lee narrrated it. I would end up lying down with kids and not leaving the room because I had to keep listening.
Usually when people say "a page turner" they mean intrigue and tension galore. With this book I wanted to hear what happened next but not in a stressful urgent way but because Adharanand's writing makes you feel like you are there with him. And that's a nice feeling. Like when you don't want to leave vacation. His curiosity is contagious and his self-reflection humorous and honest.
We have now listened to this book, frankly, if I say a number I am guessing. 5 times? When we've had a hard night, or life seems scary, my son picks this book over all others in our Audible for the soothing tale of learning how the Kenyans run, the people and this father, Adharanand Finn, on his own journey.
"A must for runners"
Well done...interesting research into why Kenyan runners are so dominant in the U.S. and olympics. Perhaps could have gone a bit deeper into the Kenyan youth and how they are groomed. A pretty cool tale of a whitey making his way around Kenya - an experience all to itself, and not in a bad way. I was there in 1977 and am white, we simply stick out. But, the Kenyan people are inquisitive and hold none of the prejudices we Americans seem to have. Note: This book is not about white and black, the author is clearly colorblind. He keeps almost entirely to his quest to race and train with the Kenyans and the stories of the running races is fascinating.
I focus mainly on History, Endurance Sports and Science/Speculative Fiction books.
"One of the Best Running Books!"
it was great. John Lee, who I have listened to many times in the Peter Hamilton series really brings Finn to life. the accents and attitudes of the African runners made me feel like I knew them. Amazing. In many ways this book is less of a running book and more of a travel book. It gets you close to another culture and does so in a non-judgmental way based on curiosity. I was sad to see it end.
Each part was interesting, I found the sections where Finn was just trying to figure out what was going on as he settled into the village of Etan fascinating. These are gentle, quiet giving, people and although Finn brought his Western sensibilities with him, he integrated into the Kenyan way of life and way of thinking in a remarkable way.
Honestly his running partners. Found these people to be very happy, without having or wanting many possessions. It came out in the characterizations and interpretation by Lee. But Finn is the most intriguing of all, his curiosity is infectious.
No I rarely do that...
Highly recommend to any runner especially if you like Born to Run. I would also recommend it to any emerging athlete, or traveler. Just a great, simple, heartwarming book.
Van Buren MI
"A must for runners"
I enjoyed all aspects of this book! The technical details around running form and gear, the social aspects of western versus African runners and Finn's journey make the entire book worth a second listen.
As a runner I cannot say any one thing hit me as the best thing about the book. I took different things away from it and even generated conversation with friend (runners and non-runners) based on the information.
John Lee is excellent at expressing what the author is trying to convey. I often found myself thinking of John Lee's voice as Finn's. I am sure the next book I listen to featuring John Lee will take some time re-adjust to him NOT being Finn.
"so that's how they keep winning"
Lively story about how a white guy moves to Africa to learn the ingredients of Kenyan running success. What makes this book especially interesting is that Finn actually lived and trained with the Kenyans. A terrific recap of his experiences as a vegetarian training for a marathon.
"Great read!"
I really enjoyed this book. It provides readers with a glimpse of how the greatest runners in the world live, eat and train.
"Worth the read"
Boring at times, but well worth it in the end. Only for runners, not running folks will find the book boring.
Life is a journey, enjoy it......because one day it will all end.
"A good book for a running story"
Maybe. I have listened to Born to Run 3 times. I like to listen to running book while I am out for my long runs. This one was a good story of running with Kenyan runners in their culture but not insperational. The tempo of the book was a bit slower and did not speak to me like a few other books. There was good vivid detail in the book which allowd me to see the book in my head while I ran.
"Educational first hand account"
Depends. If they want to delve directly into learning the Kenyan culture of running to "feel" what it is that makes them great then yes. If they are just looking for facts about what the Kenyans do right then no. The facts can be found elsewhere. This is a story of a guy visiting Kenya to run with the Kenyan's and understand what makes them great. But there really isn't a secret as to what that is. It's a combination of many things and I'm sure there are summaries online that explain everything revealed in this book in a simpler format. Since this is the authors experience in Kenya he tells side stories about his family and what life is like there. Often they aren't relevant to why I choose to read the book and in addition I found them boring. Frequently I found myself screaming in my head, "stop telling me all these meaningless details from your everyday life!". I didn't want to hear about him not getting offered tea when he visited someone. I did get some useful information from Finn's experience though. Since the information was surrounding a real story it may help me remember it in the proper context better. From that perspective the book was a success for me. Being able to see how facts connect to reality is the biggest value I got from this book.
No. He includes too many details of little importance to hold my attention. His story also starts too slow and strays from the central point of the book too much. I'd rather not go through that again.
Sort of. Too slow in my opinion with unnecessarily long pauses. Once he got talking about events it wasn't too bad. Most of all though the voice just didn't match how I imagined the character sounding. I know Finn is British but the narrator sounded like a grandfather too tired to walk rather than an above average marathoner in his 30's. And the English expressions in the tone of the narrator to me sounded awful sometimes. On several occasions at least I recall thinking that the author couldn't have actually used that tone matched to those expressions when he spoke to the Kenyans. I guess i could be wrong but that's what I thought of.
Yes. I'd like to have known more about his work with Runner's World magazine. Was he writing articles for them while he was in Kenya? What were his typical topics? Did he work much in Kenya? What kind of hours and schedules did he work? Did Runner's World pay for any of his travels and running stuff in Kenya? His occupation seems like such a useful piece of information yet Finn left out much of it's influence on his Kenya trip. Surely he was able to move to Kenya partly because Runner's World loved the idea. But he just leaves that whole piece rather empty.
Decent book overall. But it lacked many of the things that make a great book and great narration. I don't regret buying it but wish it were priced less considering it's quality.
"Well Done"
This book was a great listen for my long weekend runs. The author explores the topic thoroughly, humorously, and warmly, while avoiding the "look at me, I'm oh so special" vibe that plagues baby-boomer memoirs.
The narrator was pitch-perfect, too.
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I have a Mini-14. I like it really well. It is light, fairly easy to handle, shoots the current American military caliber, and, best of all, people dont freak out when they see it. It doesnt look so military.
I also have a Romanian AK47. It is a very dependable firearm. Although it shoots a foreign designed caliber, at one time there was plenty of it around for very good prices. I used to buy it by the case. I also like it very well. It is not too heavy, it always fires when you pull the trigger, the caliber is powerful enough to do the job, and, it is fun to shoot. However, some people DO freak out when they see this gun! It is better not to show it around too much.
So, I like both of them. I feel that I would be well served carrying either of them if TSHF. They are both dependable. They dont have extreme target accuracy, but they will both get the job done. I have ample ammo for both. So, I can get some practice. What I have to decide is: If I had to grab one and run, which would it be? I think either would do the job.
The AK47 has a reputation of ALWAYS firing! Thats a plus. The AK plus a certain amount of ammo would weigh more than the Mini with the same number of cartridges. And, I think that-within 200 yards-the AK probably hits a little harder. But, does the AK have a big edge over the MINI?
The Mini-14 also has the reputation of shooting every time you pull the trigger. Some people say that they have shot thousands of rounds without even cleaning it and it keeps going. I like handling this gun. It shoots a good caliber that should do the job. I think that its range is close to that of the AK.
The number one thing that would determine my choice is, probably, the availability of spare parts. The AK wins this one hands down. You can find all the spare parts all over the place. A good place to start is the Shotgun News. They almost always have advertisers selling AK parts. Some parts for Mini-14s are available, but, firing pins-which are vulnerable-are not. Except for after market parts. I plan to order 2 Glend made Mini-14 firing pins. Then I will have complete faith in my Mini.
However, I still believe that the AK is the best first choice tactical firearm.


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ZF-7802: Cannot pass an object to setClass()
Per the Interface definition and the documentation, setClass() allows an object to be supplied. Passing an object, however, gives the following error:
Zend_Soap_Server_Exception: Invalid class argument (object) in /usr/share/zend-framework/ZendFramework-1.9.2-minimal/library/Zend/Soap/Server.php on line 560
There is a function "setObject" just for this, it seems the docs are wrong on this issue then.
Fixed the docblock


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Fourme d'AmbertThis cheese is in rare Fourme. Time in our caves yields a sweet, super-creamy bite that will convert even the staunchest blue cheese hater. Read More
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Great Lakes Cheese
New York State CheddarIt's no secret- New Yorkers love cheese. Heck, we've even got a museum dedicated entirely to the cheese of New York State - and this hunk of sharp, grassy goodness, full of the same spunk and sass that defines a native New Yorker, serves as an edible monument to the centuries-long history of Empire State cheese. Read More
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LandaffInspiration, found Caer-fully. An American original which, like its Welsh counterpart, is exceptionally easy to eat enormous quantities of, whilst drinking beer. Read More
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Robiola BosinaThis luscious little slab of mild, creamy goodness is made from a blend of milks for the perfect balance of salty and milky sweet. Its tender rind is good eats - resist that uncivilized urge to bite it like a pastry. Read More


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As a committed fan, you deserve to sport the official look of the Chargers. This Nike Hot pullover jacket is the same one you'll see your San Diego coaching staff sporting on game days. The short sleeve pullover features a quarter-zip collar, an embroidered team logo on the left chest, toggle drawcords at the hem and Nike's Dri-FIT technology that will keep you cool no matter how intense the action gets on the field. If it's good enough for your favorite coaches to wear on game day, then you'll certainly be able to pull off this Bolts-spirited look on those glorious fall Sundays.
- Raised, satin-twill NFL team logo on left chest
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Everyone has their preferences with candy, and that's the beauty of it all. I have preferences just like everyone else, but I also enjoy trying everything because I'm a big foodie like that. One candy that's always in my stash are gummis. Both my boyfriend and I are big fans of gummi candies, so we're always looking for new kinds and well as keeping the classic favorites around. When I saw these VanSlooten Sun & Fun gummis, I was interested since I've never seen anything like these before.
The come in a convenient tube with a removable top. The package design is simple, yet eye-catching. The photos of the gummis are pretty spot on in representing the candies on the inside, so it's not a sad surprise when you do go about opening the package. The top was a little hard to remove at first, but once I practiced it a few times I had it down. The package smells fruity and sweet, but not of any particular fruit.
Green: Hard to lay my finger on this place. It isn't lime or watermelon, but it has juicy fruity notes and a pleasant flavor. My best guess is it's apple.
Beige/Brown (Cola): Sweet with spicy notes to it, like a good cola should. It reminds me more of Pepsi than Coke, as the spice flavor is more predominant.
Red: Sweet and floral, and surprisingly mild. Not really sure what this one is supposed to be. I get soapy notes every so often. Whatever it is I'm not quite sold on it.
Orange: Orange, but more like an orange cola flavor. It has some strange spicy/bitter notes to it that remind me of some orange candies I taste around Halloween.
Green/Maroon: This one is sweet and tasty. Has notes of "red" and berries. I think it's trying to be strawberry or cherry, but the taste is so nondescript that I cannot place my finger on it.
These proved to be interesting all right. The flavors seemed kinda benign and muddled, but that didn't stop me from eating them after the tasting. I shared them with my friends, like I do all my candies, and they liked these too. One especially with smitten with their dense, chewy texture. When I really sit down and think about it, I finally touched on what these remind me of: wine gums. Regardless, if you're a gummi fan, these are a fun variety to try!
Rating: Might Eat Again


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Cabra RomeroWhat happens when you take a young and springy Spanish goat cheese and add a thick layer of Rosemary to the rind? You end up with the herbaceous treat that is Cabra Romero! Read More
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Le Chevre NoirWe love this fromage. Pale and smooth with a bit of a crunch, this gently pasteurized goat milk cheddar will wow you with its fruity sharpness. Fabrique au Quebec, baby. Read More


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I work at the Humane Society of Missouri and the way they are treating us is pissing me off. Not looking forward to the calls and harassment we'll be getting this week.
I work at the Humane Society of Missouri and the way they are treating us is pissing me off. Not looking forward to the calls and harassment we'll be getting this week.
"There has to be evil so that good can prove its purity above it."
- Guatama Buddha
Yeah, PETA kills off over 90% of the animals they take in.
They can't just blame the shelters. Blame should also be placed on people who don't fix their pets, people who drop off animals at the shelter because they are too irresponsible to care for pets, and people who don't adopt to help ease the pressure. It is illogical for all shelters to keep all the animals alive; even for a STRICT no-kill shelter, they would have to just turn away new animals until the old ones are adopted or die of natural causes. It's still a lose situation.
Why is this even news? Everyone knows shelters have to euthanize animals, just because the rates may be higher than people expect doesn't mean that it should be news. And the reasons like "1 year old pit bulls" being put down is not as shocking as they make it out to be, pit bulls are harder to adopt out than say, labs or chihuahuas. It's making space, pit bulls are hard to adopt out being of the ignorant stigma surrounding them of them being more dangerous than other dogs when in reality pit bulls are only as dangerous as the owners let them be.
Well, and we don't have a time or space limit. Euthanasia sucks, but we accept every animal that comes into our doors and if it's aggressive what are we supposed to do? Adopt it out so it will bite some one?
And if BSL bans were lifted Pit Bulls would be adopted out a lot more. A lot of insurance agencies won't allow people to own them and 90 percent of the apartments and townhomes here in STL do not allow "aggressive breeds" i.e. Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Rotties. I mean hell.
"There has to be evil so that good can prove its purity above it."
- Guatama Buddha
Once again ladies and gentlemen I present to you... The media!!!!
i was going to say something witty but i forgot it
Imma horse, don't judge.
Yep I presented the media to myself
that's shitty. it sucks of course, but damn... those breeds aren't "aggressive"
dogs are similar to pokemon, if you don't train them well and make them do harmful things, of course they'll be "aggressive"
i used to breed and train dogs. i hate how people buy these "aggressive" animals and then come back to return the animal because insurance wont let them own the dogs and in some places, their shots are more expensive because of their breed. ;(
bull dogs are the most loving of dogs!
I want a doberman pincher
Leo 3DS friend Code: 0344 - 9299 - 0936


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A year ago 18 year old Danelle Devine couldn't imagine being able to walk without assistance, much less go to college.
The competitive ski racer was in so much pain, she could barely get out of bed.
"I talked with my physical therapist and we tried taping my neck, we tried injections, we went to a migraine specialist and neuro opthalmologist. Over that summer we tried to figure stuff out but nothing was really working" says Danelle.
The pain started when Danelle broke her back at the age of 12 during one particularly hard fall while skiing.
She didn't fall often, but when she did, she fell hard.
"Danelle says "after my concussion in 2010 things just never went back to normal. It was clear that something was really, really wrong."
During a summer ski camp her vision went black causing her to fall.
Danelle went in search of help....again.
She says "we went from doctor to doctor to doctor to Dr.
Each of them saying -- we can't help you, go see this guy....or we can't do anything for you, go see this guy. Sorry I don't know what's wrong - go see him."
Nothing helped ease the pain and Danelle found herself unable to do the most mundane every day tasks.
"I was pulled from school because it had worsened to the point where I couldn't read without throwing up. I couldn't really walk very well by myself."
Danelle ended up in the hospital in November of 2011.
"When we were there nothing was accomplished. It was just from Doctor to doctor, test to test.."
Danelle's physical therapist started doing some research and
came upon an article written by Bay Medical neurosurgeon Dr. Joel Franck.
A call, then visit, to his panama city office gave her hope that finally something might be able to help.
Dr. Franck says his expertise in neurosurgery coupled with a high tech machine at a local chiropractors office is what's making the difference.
Next Wednesday we'll take a look at the procedure, how it works and how it finally got Danelle back on her feet.


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Feb 07th 2011
Westminster's February Events
If you are looking for the event this coming month, Westminster College is offering everything you could ask for. From Westminster Theatre's production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee to Westminster Chamber Singers and Chinese Choir, we've got February covered. Read More


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In One Person
By John Irving
Simon & Schuster
It's the closeted 1950s, and Billy Abbott is troubled by the teenage crushes he's been having on all "the wrong people." His stepfather. His friend's mother. The curiously androgynous town librarian. The school's star wrestler. Not to mention his strange attachment to his not-quite-girlfriend's bra. A mix of comedy, tragedy and mystery (who is Billy's father, and why did he disappear?), Irving's latest novel tells two coming-of-age stories: Billy's, as he grows into a man who likes women, men, and women who used to be men; and our culture's, as it evolves from the buttoned-up era of Billy's youth into our more open times. Stonewall happens. AIDS happens. Lovers of all persuasions come and go. What remains at the end of this big bear hug of a book is a simple request: "My dear boy," says Billy to a young bully, "please don't put a label on me—don't make me a category before you get to know me!" —Amanda Lovell
By Toni Morrison
"They rose up like men . . ." begins Toni Morrison's 10th novel, set in rural 1950s Georgia, "their raised hooves crashing and striking, their manes tossing back from wild white eyes." Witnessed by two young children, brother and sister, the mating dance of horses is a scene of beauty and brutality. As the children watch from their hiding place in the long grass, a group of men arrives to dig a secret grave; they place a body inside, a "black foot with its creamy pink and mud streaked sole." This remembered horror presages all others—war crimes that haunt the brother, a Korean War veteran; violations the sister endures at the hands of the doctor she works for—until the two reunite at last and begin, incrementally, to heal the wounds inflicted by the world they were born into. In her characteristically breathtaking prose, rich in all the contradictions that make us human, Morrison transforms unthinkable suffering into incomplete but believable redemption. —Pam Houston
Bring Up the Bodies
By Hilary Mantel
Henry Holt and Company
To say that Bring Up the Bodies goes over well-traversed literary terrain would be an understatement. Yet Hilary Mantel gives us an electrifyingly fresh take on the story of Henry VIII and the fall of his second wife, Anne Boleyn, by telling the story from the perspective of Thomas Cromwell, the king's closest adviser. Cromwell tends not to fare well in historical accounts, coming off as a self-serving schemer. Yet Mantel gives us a nuanced portrait of the man as an intelligent and judicious courtier who, although responsible for engineering Boleyn's conviction, is melancholy, not triumphant, and who (largely) has the good of the English people at heart. Like its predecessor, Mantel's Booker Prize–winning Wolf Hall, this novel is deeply humanistic and insightful. Its author closes with a direct address to the reader: "There are no endings. If you think so you are deceived as to their nature. They are all beginnings. Here is one." —Alice LaPlante
Next: 'The Red Book' by Deborah Copaken Kogan
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