text: Jun 21, 2014 15:44 Community column for June 13, 2014 Community column for June 13, 2014 Photo provided by MARGARET TYLER -- Daughters of the Confederacy -- Louisiana Division United Daughters of the Confederacy District II chapters met May 31 at Drusilla Seafood Restaurant. Shown are officers, from left, Ruth Andrus, Rezzie Meyer, Margaret Tyler and Gerry Ryder. Photo provided by Col. CLAY LE GRANDE -- Military Order of the World Wars -- - Lt. Col. Paul McKeough, Lt. Col. Reginald Brown, Maj. Rod Breland, Lt. Col. Patrick Widner and Col. Shelby Hargrove, from left, were installed as the new LTG Troy H. Middleton Chapter officers on June 3. Photo provided by MIDGE BENSON -- Community Gardeners -- Gathering at the Community Gardeners meeting on June 5 are, from left, Kathy Mullins, Peggy Hatch, Rita Salman, Connie Buck and Hazel Hagan. Photo provided by SANCERIE O'ROURK-ALLEN -- Mentorship program -- Gathering at the May 29 culminating ceremony for the Emerging Young Leaders Academy, sponsored by Gamma Eta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, are, from left, Kyra Wilmer, Kayln Hughes, Dailynn Thomas, JonBria Brock, Kenlen Smith, Faith Bienemy and Chairwoman Ayanna Penn. Photo provided by SEAN BEAUVAIS -- Warrior Sword Awards Banquet -- St. Michael High School held its Warrior Sword Awards Banquet on May 29. Shown are honorees, from left, Troy Matthews, Grace Ann Nathanson-Ourso, Myra Patureau and Fred Crifasi. Photo provided by TOMMIE O'DONOGHUE -- Peo Chapter E presented State President Carol Evans with a cake decorated with her logo and theme, 'On the Go with PEO,' at its May 8 meeting at Sharon Leachman's home. Photo provided by PAT ROBINSON -- Capital City Rotary -- Volunteers gathered at Boutin's Restaurant on May 27 to celebrate the success of the May 4 Global Community Day: from left, back row, Tom Varnado, Henry Turner, Jr., Melinda Solomon, Monika Olivier, James Olalekan, Emily Stich, Anselmo Rodriguez; front row, Pat Robinson, Sandua Shah, Ana Boone and Diane Zhang. Photo provided by FRED J. SIBLEY -- 100 Black Men -- From left, 100 Black Men of Metro Baton Rouge President Michael W. Victorian presents newest members to the organization at the May 19 meeting: Graysen Walls, Kenneth O. Miles and Brandon M. Smith. Photo provided by BABS BABIN -- West Side Womens Club -- The West Side Women's Club elected 2014-15 officers at its May 15 spring brunch at the Kingfish Grill in Baton Rouge: from left, Lauren Davis, president; Kim Callegan, second vice president; Kay Sager, treasurer; Joy Hobbins, secretary; and Lorry Trotter, first vice president. Photo provided by MISSY GARY -- PEO -- Cottey College Student Erica Pezant, left, of Sorrento, and PEO Chapter BD member Susan Jones, right, of Baton Rouge, welcome Cottey College President Judy Rogers of Nevada, Mo., to the annual PEO Louisiana Chapter State Convention held May 30-31 in Covington. Rogers announced that PEO International has raised more than $35 million dollars to benefit Cottey College. Will Greer Navya Murugesan Advocate story June 12, 2014; 3:59 p.m. Comments St. Michael High honors five at awards banquet St. Michael High School honored five people for their contributions to the school at the Warrior Sword Awards Banquet on May 29 at Ashley Manor. Troy Matthews, Class of 1990, received the Alumni of the Year Award, which is given to an alum who is a respected community member, has an evident pride for SMHS, gives to the school and gives time to SMHS events, fundraisers and other organizations. Former St. Michael Principal Myra Patureau and St. Michael parent Fred Crifasi received the Warrior Sword Award for exemplifying basic Christian values through deeds and in the spirit of good will and serving as a role model for students, serving the local community and supporting the school's ideals. Former athletes Matt Nathanson ('02) and Grace Ann Nathanson-Ourso ('03) were inducted to the Wall of Honor. Cross Country Coach Neil Borel spoke about their high school accomplishments. AKA holds ceremony for mentoring program Gamma Eta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority held the culminating ceremony for the 2013-20 Emerging Young Leaders Academy mentoring program May 29 at the sorority house. Chairwoman Ayanna Penn and Co-chairwoman Arlisha Harris were in charge of the program, which provides leadership development, civic engagement, academic enhancement and character building for 17 girls in sixth through eighth grade. The class participated in several activities including National Lemonade Day, Earth Day and other cultural and leadership development activities. Each participant received an award and a jacket with the program crest at the ceremony. UDC District II elects officers for 2014-15 Louisiana Division United Daughters of the Confederacy District II chapters met May 31 at Drusilla Seafood Restaurant. District Chairwoman Marilyn Nassar welcomed members from four chapters: Feliciana, of Jackson; Calcasieu, of Lake Charles; Teche, of Morgan City; and Joanna Waddill, of Baton Rouge. Members discussed the 2015 State Convention that will be in Baton Rouge. Members elected 2014-15 officers: Chairman Margaret Tyler, Vice Chairman Rezzie Meyer, Secretary Ruth Andrus and Treasurer Gerry Ryder. UDC membership is open to women age 16 or older who are blood descendants of men and women who served honorably in the Army, Navy or Civil Service of the Confederate States of America, or gave material aid to the cause, or are blood descendants of UDC members or former members. Contact Jan Grace at firstname.lastname@example.com. MOWW installs officers, hears USS Kidd director Alejandra "Alex" Juan, executive director of the USS Kidd Museum and Veterans Memorial, spoke to the LTG Troy H. Middleton Chapter of the Military Order of the World Wars on June 3 at the City Club. Juan spoke on initiatives to better connect the museum and memorial to the community through an emphasis on youth education. Col. Clay Le Grande, MOWW national vice commander-in-chief, installed new chapter officers: Lt. Col. Patrick L. Widner, commander; Lt. Col. Reginald Brown, Lt. Col. Paul K. McKeough Jr., Lt. Col. Shaun B. McGarry and Maj. Rodney L. Breland. vice commanders; and Col. Shelby Hargrove, adjutant and treasurer. Hargrove, outgoing commander, presented an outstanding service award to McKeough for his five years service managing the annual ROTC-JROTC Award of Merit program the chapter conducts for cadets in Louisiana universities and high schools. Mary McKeough received a certificate of appreciation for preparing award certificates for the chapter. Last year, the chapter was first runner up for the MOWW national ROTC service award in the large chapter category. Community Gardeners learn about La. herbs Rita Salman and Kathy Mullins, members of the Baton Rouge Herbal Society, spoke on herbal gardening to Community Gardeners on June 5 at Connie Buck's home. The program included a quiz on common Louisiana herbs, with the speakers showing the plants and sharing their uses in the home. They had many herb handouts and 3-year-old olive trees for sale. Money from the sale goes toward developing a herb garden at Burden Center. A business meeting and a pot luck lunch followed the program. Dutchtown grad gets West Point appointment John "Will" Greer, son of Meredith and Michael Greer, of Prairieville, has received an appointment to the Class of 2018 at the United States Military Academy at West Point. Greer graduated on May 16 from Dutchtown High School, where he was a captain of the varsity soccer team, captain of the cross country team, member of the Dutchtown 2012 state championship track and field team. He was a member of the National Honor Society, Student Council, Beta Club and Mu Alpha Theta, and is a member of First United Methodist Church in Baton Rouge. Prospective members of the Class of 2018 will report to West Point for the first time on July 2. Glasgow student places 47th at spelling bee Navya Murugesan, a student at Glasgow Middle School, finished tied for 47th place out of 281 spellers at the Scripps National Spelling Bee on May 28. It was her first time to participate in the contest. Bonnabel reunion Bonnabel High School will hold a multi-class reunion from 7-10 p.m. on Oct. 10 at The Rose Garden in Harahan. The cost for the semi-formal fully catered event is $69 per person. Mail & make out check to: A.J. Reyes, 17474 La. 631, Des Allemands, LA 70030. Or through PayPal, send $72 ($3 PayPal handling fee) to: firstname.lastname@example.com. Or go to alumniclass.com to pay with a credit card, $73 (includes service fee). Payments are due by Aug. 4. Email email@example.com for more information. Follow this link to the photos. Compiled by Advocate staff writer George Morris. The "Community" column runs Tuesday and Friday. Items should be submitted to "Community," Advocate EatPlayLive section, P.O. Box 588, Baton Rouge, LA 70821, or emailed to firstname.lastname@example.com. Get The Advocate in your inbox Subscribe


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Nearly one in five young U.S. adults may have high blood pressure, researchers say in a study, suggesting the problem of hypertension is more widespread than previously thought.
Hypertension is easy to prevent and inexpensive to treat through diet, exercise and drugs, yet it is the second-leading cause of death in the United States. The Institute of Medicine, part of the National Academy of Sciences that often conducts studies for the government, last year declared high blood pressure a "neglected disease" that costs the U.S. health system $73 billion a year.
The latest findings by a team at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill are in sharp contrast to a federal government study by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey that suggested only four percent of young adults might have high blood pressure, a condition that raises the risk of strokes and heart attacks.
Both studies used the same definition of hypertension: a blood pressure reading of 140 over 90 millimeters of mercury or more. Normal blood pressure is considered to be 120 over 80 or lower.
"The findings are significant because they indicate that many young adults are at risk of developing heart disease, but are unaware that they have hypertension," said Quynh Nguyen, a doctoral student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, whose study appears online in the journal Epidemiology.
The researchers did not study why the numbers may be rising or relate the findings to U.S. intake of sodium, a major contributor to high blood pressure.
U.S. health officials say the study is a worrisome signal, but are cautious to embrace the new findings until they have been confirmed in other studies.
For the study, the team analyzed data on more than 14,000 men and women between 24 and 32 years old in 2008 from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health, known as Add Health, funded by the National Institutes of Health. They found 19 percent had elevated blood pressure, and only about half of these individuals had ever been told by their doctor that they had the condition.

subset: commoncrawl


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by Rob Moseley
Editor, GoDucks.com
With Dominic Artis and Ben Carter back from suspension, the Oregon men's basketball team certainly didn't get any flashier. But with the sublime presence of the two sophomores back on the court, the Ducks, now up to 10-0 this season, look even better.
The latest victim of coach Dana Altman's 13th-ranked juggernaut was UC Irvine, which left Matthew Knight Arena on Tuesday with a 91-63 defeat. It was the first appearance for Artis and Carter after a nine-game NCAA suspension, their presence only enhancing what has been one of the nation's best teams this season.
"Having a lot of talent never seemed to be a problem on any teams I've ever played on," UO senior Mike Moser said with a smile.
Artis and Carter didn't return with a bang. Joseph Young was still the Ducks' leading scorer Tuesday, with 18 points, and Moser remained his principle sidekick with 15.
Carter had just two field goals, but one was a baseline jumper and the other a banked hook shot, scoring savvy Oregon's posts haven't flashed often this season. Artis finished with five points and three assists, in 26 minutes. But Oregon's 12-of-17 three-point shooting spoke to the efficiency of the Ducks' ball movement, and the number of open shots created with Artis on the floor.
"It's a whole new squad when they came in," Young said.
Artis also added a career-high eight rebounds, welcome productivity from a guard in that area; it prompted Altman to joke that "I guess he's heard me complain about it all these weeks." Seven of those came on the defensive end, as the Ducks limited UC Irvine to 40.7 shooting and few second chances.
Altman surprised the Ducks a little postgame by praising their defensive effort, rare kudos from a coach who sets the bar in that area exceedingly high. Moser said Oregon's communication on switches has improved over the last two weeks, most notably in the wake of a win on the road in overtime nine days earlier.
"Mississippi was really when we finally got that together," Moser said. "We were in the thick of it — you're on the road, close game, you have no choice but to communicate if you want to win. I think that's when we learned how important it is."
Among the defensive highlights Tuesday was a three-second call on 7-foot-6 Mamadou Ndiaye, when the 6-8 Carter denied the Anteaters' attempts to feed the ball into the post. Moser said Carter "really gets it" on defense, and "definitely makes my job easier."
The Ducks also recorded a season-best 13 steals, an aggressive mentality made possible by the enhanced numbers due to the return of Artis and Carter.
"When we've got guys, we want to be in those passing lanes," Altman said. "We need to expend some energy, extend the defense. I want to get as many hands on balls (as possible) now.
"Our depth doesn't do us much good unless we're able to get more possessions, speed the game up and try to utilize that depth as much as we can."
As much as the presence of Artis and Carter helped, the Ducks still lack a true post presence. They matched up Waverly Austin and Moser on Ndiaye, and Moser joked afterward that you couldn't really call what he provided on Ndiaye "defense."
The Ducks seemed reluctant to attack the post with Ndiaye on the court — "you don't want to go into the paint, that's for sure," Moser said — but players said that wasn't a directive from coaches. Rather, it was more a function of their success hitting open jumpers.
Oregon opened the game with 54.3 percent shooting, taking a 48-29 halftime lead. Consecutive three-pointers by Jason Calliste, Moser and Damyean Doston broke it open early, giving the Ducks a 21-10 edge, and they led by as much as 21 in the half.
After halftime the game grew sloppy, but Oregon was never threatened, easily negotiating the need to work Artis and Carter back into the rotation. Foul trouble for starting point guard Johnathan Loyd eliminated some of Altman's decision-making and contributed to Artis' total of 26 minutes. But overall the Ducks rotated extensively, at one point putting five fresh players on the court together, despite no obvious miscues by the quintet they replaced.
That's just the level of depth Oregon has at this point, with Artis and Carter back in the fold.
"It's a great problem to have," Altman said. "And it's not really a problem; it's a long season and you're going to have all kinds of adversity. Guys might have to be patient, but I think our guys are mature enough to deal with that."
NOTES: Oregon improves to 10-0 for the first time since the 2006-07 season, when the Ducks opened the season with a 13-game win streak. Oregon is one of 13 unbeaten teams remaining in the country. … Young (18), Moser (15), Dotson (14) and Calliste (10) led the Ducks on offense. The Ducks have had at least four players with 10-plus points in each of the last seven games. … The Ducks held a 38-3 advantage in bench scoring. … The Ducks posted a season-high in three-pointers made, going 12-of-19 from deep. Moser (3-4), Young (2-4), Calliste (2-2) and Jalil Abdul-Bassit (2-2) led Oregon from behind the arc...Oregon's 13 steals were a season high and one shy of the Matthew Knight Arena record.


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Maple Mustard Lentils with Sausage
Maple Mustard Lentils with Sausage
If youтАЩre looking for complex flavors, youтАЩll find them in this warm salad: smoky sausage, tangy mustard, sweet maple syrup, and tart vinegar. The beans and veggies give the texture plenty of interest too. Reheated briefly in the microwave, leftovers are great the next day. Serve with Broiled Salmon with Grainy Mustard Glaze or simply prepared poultry or pork. Tip: French green lentils can replace the more humble brown ones, but the cooking time may be different. (Red and golden lentils won't work.) For best results, the lentils should be slightly "al dente." Don't let them become mushy.
Per serving: 176 calories, 4 g total fat, 1 g saturated fat, 19 mg cholesterol, 24 g total carbohydrate, 11 g dietary fiber, 13 g protein, 258 mg sodium.
Estimated Cook Time: 30 - 60 minutes.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Servings: 6


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Apple Looks Set to Launch Cheaper iPhone by the Third Quarter
Sterling Wong
Alibaba and China National Petroleum also make the news.
China Watch: Top Business News From the World's Second Largest Economy
(NASDAQ:AAPL) preparing to launch a lower-end iPhone this year? Speculation is rife after Apple supplier Pegatron said that it plans to increase its workforce in China as much as 40% in the second half of the year.
Pegatron chief financial officer Charles Lin also added that he expects 60% of his firm's 2013 revenue will come from the second half.
report notes that suppliers have told the agency Apple is planning to introduce a cheaper iPhone by the third quarter to target emerging markets like China and India.
According to a recent note by Morgan Stanley analyst Katy Huberty, a lower-priced iPhone could help Apple triple its current market share in China.
"Even in a scenario of low 40% gross margin and one-third iPhone cannibalization rate (flattening legacy iPhone shipment growth, which we view as conservative, the iPhone Mini adds incremental revenue and gross profit dollars," said Huberty.
Meanwhile, Apple has jumped right back into the top five of China's smartphone market in the first quarter of 2013. According to
a report
from Canalys, Apple moved up a spot to fifth, with an 8% share, thanks to strong iPhone 5 sales and reduced prices of older iPhone models.
(OTCMKTS:SSNLF) continues to lead the market with a 20% share, while
Yulong Computer
(HKG:2369), Huawei and
(SHE:000063) followed behind.
Beijing Business Daily
also reported this week that the next China Apple store might be under construction right now in the capital city. According to sources quoted by the publication, the store will open towards the end of the year in conjunction with the release of the next iteration of the iPhone.
Currently, Apple has 11 stores in China, including three each in Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, and one each in Chengdu and Shenzhen.
Alibaba Buys Stake in AutoNavi
E-commerce giant Alibaba Group will splash out $294 million for a 28% stake in
(NASDAQ:AMAP), an Internet mapping company.
The purchase is in line with Alibaba's strategy of expanding its smartphone services offerings. Last month, the company bought an 18% stake in
(NASDAQ:SINA) Weibo, China's microblogging Twitter equivalent.
"This new alliance reflects our vision for the future of the mobile Internet," Jack Ma, executive chairman of Alibaba and the company's figurehead, said in a statement. "We're pleased to work with partners such as AutoNavi to develop terrific applications and services that bring more convenience, fun, and joy to our users. We'll continue to work toward this goal with tireless enthusiasm."
Forrester analyst Bryan Wang explained to the
Wall Street Journal
how Alibaba could take advantage of AutoNavi and Weibo to sell advertising.
"If I know you're at the
(NYSE:GPS) store, I can push a Uniqlo advertisement to you [on your smartphone] and you can compare that… Then with Sina Weibo you can share the experience…there are many ways you can leverage this ability," he said.
April Auto Sales Rise in China
Despite a lackluster economic recovery, China auto sales rose 13% in April to 1.8 million vehicles, compared with 1.62 million a year ago.
"The result reflected strong consumer demand as well as a good inventory management by dealers," said UBS Securities in a research note. Sales of passenger cars improved 13% to 1.44 million vehicles.
Sales improved even though China's economic growth has slowed to 7.7% in the first quarter from 7.9% in the last quarter of 2012.
Japanese carmakers reported better April results overall compared with the last month.
(OTCMKTS:NSANY) posted a 2.7% year-over-year increase in April sales after a 17% plunge in March.
(NYSE:TM) saw sales fall 6.5% last month, though that was still better than the 17% slide in March. Similarly,
Honda Motor's
(NYSE:HMC) 2.4% April sales dip was an improvement over March's 6.6% drop.
American auto companies reported stronger results than their Japanese counterparts.
General Motors
(NYSE:GM) said sales of GM-branded cars and those of its Chinese partners jumped 15.3% last month to 251,870 vehicles, while
(NYSE:F) reported a sharp 37% increase to 75,337 vehicles.
CNPC Makes Move to Buy Brazil's Barra
China National Petroleum Corporation is in negotiations to buy Brazilian oil company Barra Energia Petroleo e Gas for $2 billion,
reported, adding that a deal could be reached by the end of the month.
Backed by government funding, Chinese energy firms have been on an aggressive
foreign acquisition spree
in the past few years in order to secure domestic energy needs.
"It looks like the state-owned CNPC can gain access to one of the largest offshore reserves in the world through the deal, and build a foundation for long-term development in
South America
," Shi Yan, an analyst at UOB-Kay Hian in Shanghai, told Bloomberg. "Buying up assets from South America has long been part of CNPC's global strategy to build up exploration and refining portfolios in different continents."
No positions in stocks mentioned.
The information on this website solely reflects the analysis of or opinion about the performance of securities and financial markets by the writers whose articles appear on the site. The views expressed by the writers are not necessarily the views of Minyanville Media, Inc. or members of its management. Nothing contained on the website is intended to constitute a recommendation or advice addressed to an individual investor or category of investors to purchase, sell or hold any security, or to take any action with respect to the prospective movement of the securities markets or to solicit the purchase or sale of any security. Any investment decisions must be made by the reader either individually or in consultation with his or her investment professional. Minyanville writers and staff may trade or hold positions in securities that are discussed in articles appearing on the website. Writers of articles are required to disclose whether they have a position in any stock or fund discussed in an article, but are not permitted to disclose the size or direction of the position. Nothing on this website is intended to solicit business of any kind for a writer's business or fund. Minyanville management and staff as well as contributing writers will not respond to emails or other communications requesting investment advice.
Copyright 2011 Minyanville Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.


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American Girl is looking at many upset parents who found out that four of the American Dolls that are expected to be retired are all minorities. According to ABC News on Wednesday, out of the four dolls to be discontinued the decision included two dolls that were racially diverse dolls. Ivy of Asian descent and Cecile of African descent where listed. When people found out that all the dolls were going to be cut, there was a strong response of customer outrage.
Parents were upset about the loss of the racially diverse dolls and a change to the historical character collection. Leaving no indication that the dolls would be changed up or new American Girl dolls would be released, there was a massive amount of confusion why these four particular dolls would be discontinued.
After all the customer concerns addressed to American Girl, the company has addressed the issue with their fan base and there is a logical reason for the retirement of the dolls. Apparently the four dolls were chosen because they are each are part of the three doll pairs in the collection. The move allows the collection to be changed up and new dolls can be introduced for purchase.
American Girl has been under fire before with the dolls that are being discontinued being side-kicks to other dolls instead of character in their own right. Parents have been concerned for some time about having better representation of the vast diversity that makes up America. It seems the company has listened to the concerns and have decided to move away from the character-friend strategy within the line.
This new line of American Girl dolls appears to offer up a doll for every type of girl and address the concerns of diversity. American Girl not only sells the dolls, but also is a big part of pop culture with movies, books and other merchandise that young ladies love to purchase and enjoy.


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I wore this dress for only a few hours for my wedding in August and had it dry cleaned immediately. It is like brand new! Ready for the next lucky bride. I paid $1950 for the dress/alterations, so this is an amazing deal! I wore the dress part of the day with the strap attached as shown in the pictures. I also tucked it in for a different look (strapless).
San Patrick Enfasis is a mermaid style bridal gown, made of dupion. Features include a one shoulder strap design, horizontal ruched sweetheard neckline, asymmetrical ruching on the wasit, pleating on the skirt. Train on back.
- Label Size: 4
- Street Size: 2
- Bust: 33
- Waist: 26
- Hips: 37
- Height with Shoes: 5.75
- Alterations: For alterations, I had cups put in, the bust taken in very slightly, and a 3 point bustle. I bought it in size 4. I'm 5'5 and wore 2.5 inch heels. The dress measurements are 33-26-37.
- Color: Ivory
- Silhouette: Mermaid
- Material:
- Neckline: One Shoulder
- Style: Modern
- Condition: Used
- Original Owner:
- Has Original Receipt:
- Preservation Method: Dry cleaned
- Terms of Sale: All Sales Final
- Location: Bellevue,
- Will Ship to: Anywhere at Owner Expense
- Payment Methods Accepted: Other
Please read our BUYER'S GUIDE before purchasing a dress online.


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Jewel Bait Old Skool AJ Finesse Jigs
Old Skool AJ Finesse Jigs come with something extra: a slip-on rubber skirt with rattle holding bands for flare and action. This long-time tournament favorite features an ultra-tough powder-coat finish. Whether you're fishing riprap or blowdowns, this chip-resistant finish remains intact. Equipped with a sturdy fiber weedguard.
- A long-time tournament favorite
- Old Skool rubber skirt with rattle band
- Well balanced
- Sturdy fiber weedguard
- Ultra-tough powder-coat finish
Need Help? 7 days a week: 7am to 10pm CT or call 1.800.227.7776 anytime


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Marilyn Manson once tried to pick up Lady Gaga on the set of a Rolling Stone shoot. Although that didn't quite work out for the '90s shock rocker, the pair did end up collaborating on a remix of Gaga's hit, "Love Game." Flash forward to today, and they're fronting dual covers for Candy magazine.
The mag usually has its cover stars dress in drag, so Manson's looking sullen in a dress on his cover, while Lady Gaga's wearing a Dali-esque moustach, a fur coat, and nothing else. Mother Monster pulls a Janet Jackson with a single exposed breast hidden behind a nipple ornament, but her, uh, venus, is on full display.
As you can see, Gaga's gone au naturel downstairs, which is actually rather refreshing. After all, this is the same woman who sang the line, "I'm as free as my hair," so it's good to see her practising what she preaches!


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Nov 8, 2011 11:10 AM
With so many people opting to go the pet route rather than the kid route, it was only a matter of time before they made dog fruit snacks. We're pretty sure we won't be seeing Annie's Homegrown cranberry-pumpkin flavored gummies hitting the grocery store anytime soon, but we can pick up some Fruitables Dog Treats ($5) for the pup. At least we won't have to hear him whining about wanting fruit snacks every 30 minutes. He would if he could.
Can I just say, I was super disappointed when I saw these were actually dog treats? They sound so tasty...
Same here. I thought "mmm. those look good" then I saw the doggy symbol. :(
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It now seems to be the same scenario in Miami as was in Cleveland four years ago when Lebron James left the Cavaliers to join the Heat in Miami. At that time, Cleveland fans felt betrayed by James and showed their frustration by burning his jersey and booing him when he returned to Quicken Loans Arena to play against the Cavaliers. Even Dan Gilbert, the Cleveland Cavaliers owner, displayed his disappointment in James by writing a letter criticizing him for leaving Cleveland in the first place.
Now the Miami Heat fans are showing their anger about James leaving their city and heading back to Cleveland. One fan has apparently blackened the face of James with spray paint on a mural located in downtown Miami. James has undoubtedly cause some serious heartbreaks in Miami fans as he did with the Cleveland fans. But now Cleveland is once again rejoicing, because King James is headed back their way. Apparently the meeting between James and Dan Gilbert went very well, in which both apologized for the things said and done. This seemed to be the first step in getting James back home to Cleveland. News of James returning has the city of Cleveland feeling very jubilant.
It appears that James has been forgiven and has been given a second chance to come back to the place where he started his NBA career. Even though he's returning as a two-time NBA champion, James will need lots of help to bring Cleveland to winning a championship. That means that the Cavaliers will need to sign on some great shooters, rebounders and defensive minded players.
There are plenty of free agents that could land in Cleveland with James. If the right ones do end up with James, the Cavaliers may become a very competitive team in James return.


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Published: May 9, 2012
Courtney Puskas says despite having a busy career, she always makes time to plan a weekly dinner with her mother, Cheryl Puskas, a single mother who raised four children. Cheryl's commitment to family and faith inspire Courtney. Both are from Austintown.
Use the comment form below to begin a discussion about this content.


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This week's very special Opening our Hearts represents a collaboration between Judy Vasos and Aurora Wells. All material is part of the Rosi Mosbacher-Baczewski private collection — which she had saved for nearly 70 years before passing on to her son and daughter-in-law, Tony and Judy, at the time of her death in 2009. Thank you so much, Judy, for sharing these treasured documents with SevenPonds!
When the war first broke, the beautiful city of Nuremberg trembled like a crystal glass, warning that the earth could unravel at any moment. In 1939, Hugo and Clemy Mosbacher sent their daughter Rosi to England, where she had located work as a domestic. As the tremors of Nazi persecution escalated, Hugo and Clemy fled from Germany to Holland in February of 1940. Finally securing visas to enter the United States, Rosi's parents were to arrive in New York on the steamship the S.S. Veendam, May 11 1940.
That spring, Rosi came to New York and waited to be reunited with her parents at last.
However, a single day before Hugo and Clemy's scheduled departure, the Germans invaded the Netherlands in a surprise attack.
The Mosbacher's exit visas were blocked, and despite the exhaustive efforts of Rosi and other family members, Hugo and Clemy would remain trapped in German-occupied Amsterdam for three years.
Rosi Mosbacher-Baczewski saved 100 letters and postcards her parents wrote her during this time…
"We are so preoccupied with you, dear Rosi, we think about you so often, we share your cares… and as a consequence, we converse with you in writing as often as possible… I believe this has become an obligation for which we must be grateful. People are so quick to forget obstacles that have been overcome, and to take for granted what is new and good as easily as if it had always been there."
– October 2, 1940 (when Hugo and Clemy still expect to be on their way to the United States in May)
After the German invasion of Amsterdam locks them in limbo, Hugo and Clemy's early letters are beautifully written, delicately worded plots of escape. Documenting their trials and failures, the letters speak of great frustration, filled with love and longing for freedom and family — but repeatedly find solace and hope in the safety of their daughter. They wrote every week, and Hugo carried Rosi's letters around with him wherever he went. They were a lifeline.
This is a letter from Hugo to "my dear, good Rosi," written with a fountain pen. Note the German censor marks in pencil at the top of the page; every letter was opened, censored and marked before being sent to its destination. This delayed delivery significantly, as often discussed in their correspondence. It was always a relief and joy to receive another letter.
"Our pains are shared by many others. We have to keep telling ourselves we're not the exception and must continue to find the patience… and we're going to do it if we like it or not."
"Still, we don't want to complain and must thank God when we hear good things from you — and everyone remains in good health."
– January, 1941
"There isn't any point in talking about past mistakes, since our trip had already been so beautifully and perfectly planned and it would have been carried out if nothing had intervened. We're not the only ones to be affected in this way."
– February, 1941
Rosi fell in love with a man named Alexander, but wanted to postpone their wedding until her parents could be present. Reflecting increased resignation to an uncertain fate, Hugo and Clemy tell Rosi to go ahead with her wedding plans — and in July of 1942, Rosi married her sweetheart. Rosi's parents wrote of Alexander endearingly, and he corresponded with them as well.
In January 1943, Hugo and Clemy Mosbacher were sent to Westerbork, a transit camp in northern Holland. Two weeks later, they were put on a transport to Auschwitz, where, according to records kept by the Netherlands Institute for War Documentation, "they were killed immediately upon arrival."
Rosi was 27 when she learned that she would never again receive a letter from her parents, let alone receive them in person.
That year, Rosi and Alexander had their first son, Tony — named after the little boy Rosi nannied in England. A second son, Steve, was born two years later. Tony and Steve only knew their grandparents through their mother's memory… until the discovery of these letters and documents, many years later, brought Hugo and Clemy to life.
And may their legacy live on.
…Read about Judy's experience at Rosi's funeral here.


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I've always been fascinated by English medieval history and Richard III (the last Plantagenet King of England) although King of England for barely two years (July 6, 1483 – August 22, 1485) has always been a monarch of great interest. William Shakespeare who was working for a Tudor (and later a Stuart) monarch introduced Richard as the ultimate villain, the murderer of his two nephews (one of which was King Edward V, the other Edward V's younger brother also named Richard) and a man whose deformed morality matched his deformed body. Of course the real story is far more nuanced. Richard no doubt was as ruthless as your typical Renaissance monarch but as I pointed out in one of the headlines, he was no more ruthless (and in many ways less) then many of his predecessors (including his brother King Edward IV who was responsible for the murder of King Henry VI) and less ruthless then his great-nephew King Henry VIII would turn out to be. As they say, the history books are written by the victors, and Richard was defeated and killed by the forces of Henry Tudor , the Earl of Richmond (who was aided by the treacherous betrayal of Richard by Lord William Stanley) at the Battle of Bosworth Field, on August 22, 1485 (which was the last battle of the Wars of the Roses).
by Andrew Roberts
The news that the skeleton of King Richard III has been found under a parking lot in Leicester, a city 100 miles north of London, should finally end half a millennium of winters of discontent for the most maligned monarch in English history. It proves that it is never too late to save one's reputation.
In William Shakespeare's "Richard III," the king is shown facilitating the deaths of King Henry VI and his son Prince Edward; of Richard's brother George, Duke of Clarence (drowned in a butt of malmsey wine); of the Second Duke of Buckingham; of Richard's own wife, Anne Neville; and especially of the Princes in the Tower of London, the 12-year-old King Edward V and his 9-year-old brother Richard, Duke of York. It is the greatest example of theatrical overkill since the Tarantino-like closing scenes of "Hamlet" and "Macbeth," yet there is absolutely no evidence that Richard was guilty of any of it. Shakespeare even has Richard killing the Duke of Somerset at the battle of St. Albans, which took place when Richard was 2 years old.
It is hoped by Ricardians (yes, the small but vocal band of Richard III's supporters have a sobriquet) that the world-wide interest in his disinterment by Leicester University archaeologists will focus attention on his reputation. Just because his last stand at the Battle of Bosworth Field took place 528 years ago, it doesn't mean that a good man's name should continue to be sullied. [……]
Richard should be admired even today. After all, here is a monarch who abolished press censorship, invented the right to bail for people awaiting trial, reformed the country's finances, and led bravely in battle despite a crippling disability.
It was Richard's tragedy that after being betrayed by the turncoat Stanley family at Bosworth, he then had to contend with the greatest poet-playwright in the English language spin-doctoring against him on behalf of the incoming regime. When the Tudors defeated and succeeded the last of the Plantagenets, they constantly briefed against the previous administration, blaming it for all the country's ills. Shakespeare even has Richard say: "I am determined to prove a villain." […….]
Assuming that the skeleton really is that of the king—as the DNA experts at Leicester contend, having connected him to a Canadian carpenter named Michael Ibsen, who is directly descended from King Richard's mother—its curvature of the spine implies that Shakespeare only slightly exaggerated by making him hunchbacked. A contemporary, the historian John Rous, described Richard as "slight in body and weak in strength," yet the king led his men into many battles and at Bosworth "to his last breath he held himself nobly in a defending manner." […….]
As Josephine Tey so elegantly demonstrated in her 1951 crime novel "The Daughter of Time," no modern court would convict Richard III of the murder of the princes in the Tower, whose possible skeletons—discovered in 1674 under the staircase leading to the chapel—ought now to be disinterred from Westminster Abbey and subjected to DNA tests and modern pathology examinations. "Shall I be plain? I wish the bastards dead," says Richard in the play. Yet the evidence for their murders is at best circumstantial, and at worst pure Tudor invention.
Not merely Richard III, but also his killer and successor Henry VII needed the princes out of the way. It is known that Henry became highly perturbed throughout his reign whenever (as happened regularly) pretenders appeared, claiming to be the princes. This implies that he suspected that they might still have been alive at the time of Bosworth.
Rumors abounded, for example, that they may have escaped the country into the care of their aunt, the Dowager Duchess of Burgundy. A DNA test on the bones supposed to be those of the Princes might establish whether they are the royal children, but it wouldn't tell us how they died.[…….]Certainly Richard's July 6, 1483, coronation was very well attended, which might not have been the case had his contemporaries believed that he had murdered his brother's children.
There is something uplifting in the thought that even five centuries years after his death, a wronged monarch might at last find posthumous justice.
Read the rest -Shakespeare has a (Parking) Lot to answer for
Often overlooked by the dynasty that overthrew them, namely the Tudors, the Plantagenet dynasty in England which began with the reign of Henry II in 1154 is a fascinating one. The Plantagenets include several of the monarchs who figure prominently in the history of our Western Civilization such as – Henry II, Richard I (the Lionhearted), the evil John (of the Magna Carta), Edward I (Longshanks), Edward III (a great warrior King and patron of Geoffrey Chaucer), Henry V (the victor of Agincourt), and ending with the death of Richard III in 1485. The Plantagenets traced their dynasty to Geoffrey of Anjou who wore a sprig of a yellow flower in his helmet called a Planta Genesta.
by Andrew Roberts
King Richard III, whose severely wounded body disinterred from under a parking lot in the British Midlands was confirmed by DNA testing this week, was the last of the 14 Plantagenet monarchs who ruled England from 1154 until Richard's death at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485. The Plantagenets are only usually in the news when an ambitious theater director with a big budget chooses to stage all eight of Shakespeare's "Plantagenet plays," from Richard II to Richard III via two parts of Henry IV, Henry V, and three parts of Henry VI.
Sometimes written off by historians as mere medieval military oafs with nothing much more interesting to contribute than smiting, in fact the Plantagenet monarchs who ruled from Henry II to Richard III were a fairly accomplished lot. It was hardly their fault that the real literary and artistic renaissance of Britain took place after they lost power, although writers such as Geoffrey Chaucer, John Gower, and William Langland did flourish in their era.
The clue to the Plantagenets' success is to be found in King Edward I's nickname, "The Hammer of the Scots," because once the Scottish incursions in the north had been defeated it was a relatively simple matter to dominate the rest of the British Isles (with the exception of southern Ireland, always a law unto itself). With the control of mainland Britain and Northern Ireland, and the re-adoption of English as the official language in 1362, came a genuine sense of national identity.
In the realm of law it was the Plantagenet King John, who—albeit extremely reluctantly—gave the English-speaking peoples the right of habeas corpus, perhaps the very cornerstone of all our common law liberties to this day, nearly nine centuries after the signing of the Magna Carta. […….]John was an appallingly bad king, yet no less an authority on the English-speaking peoples as Winston Churchill believed that "We owe far more to the vices of John than to the labours of virtuous sovereigns."
An area where the Plantagenets labored virtuously, in a way that still can be admired today, was in building those great structures of medieval Britain that have retained the capacity to impress. The great Gothic cathedrals that were centuries later to inspire Romantic painters such as Gainsborough, the border castles in Wales that still attract millions of visitors every year, the architectural glories of Westminster Abbey, York Minster, and King's College, Cambridge were all built by Plantagenets. [……]
Another great achievement of the Plantagenets was that they simply lasted on the throne for 331 years, albeit with the last three decades scarred by the Wars of the Roses, which only came to an end with Richard's death at Bosworth. For a family to occupy something as lethally dangerous as a medieval throne for over three centuries was remarkable, and certainly thrashes their hated rivals, the Tudors (at 118 years), but also the Normans (123 years), Stuarts (85 years), Hanoverians (187 years), and the present House of Windsor (112 years).
The Black Death, Hundred Years' War, and Peasants' Revolt all took place during the Plantagenets' watch, along with endless barons' wars, great plagues, and the burning of Joan of Arc. Yet there was also Henry V's victory at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, perhaps the dynasty's high spot. One Plantagenet king had a red-hot poker inserted into his anus to kill him in such a way that his body could be displayed to the populace (Edward II), another was captured on his return from the Crusades and ransomed at vast expense (Richard the Lionheart), but unlike some of the Hanoverian kings, they were never boring. They weren't a particularly artistic family—except for Henry VI who, possibly not coincidentally, was one of the weakest of them all—but they certainly provided Shakespeare with a good deal of great material. And Richard III died with a sword in his hand, like a true Plantagenet.
Read the rest – The mighty – and overlooked – Reign of the Plantagenets
Tags: Andrew Roberts, Plantagenets, Richard III, Wars of the Roses


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Mar 4, 2011 8:05 AM
Quick! You're on the train when you pull a compact mirror out of your purse to check for lipstick on your teeth, and realize (egad!) it looks as though you applied your foundation with your elbows. Not to fear, you have Lancome 'Teint Miracle' Instant Retouch Pen ($30) in that purse as well. In a matter of moments you've applied micro-fluorescent particles of a lightweight shade that brightens your skin and leaves you looking rather flawless. Crisis averted.
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Posted by Vee | June 2, 2011, 16:57 (MST) | 101 Comments
Category: The Vampire Diaries TV
THIS POST IS A STICKY. KEEP SCROLLING FOR MORE NEWS. Alright, Vampire Diaries fans, the time has come to put our votes in for our favorite episodes of Season 2. We ran one of these mid-season, prior to The Descent, with Masquerade, Rose, and Katerina handily winning the top three spots. Well, a lot happened following that mid-season break and this time we're allowing you THREE votes for THREE episodes.
Let us know why they're your favorites in the comments!
Posted by Red | March 24, 2011, 6:25 (MST) | No Comments
Category: The Vampire Diaries TV
Only two weeks left of this dreadful hiatus. Everyone hanging in there? Tonight we get to re-live Damon hosting a dinner party, Elijah being sinister (with perfectly-coiffed hair), and a return of Badass Alaric (seriously, never underestimate a history teacher). Meanwhile, Elena and Stefan discover a secret room up at the cabin suggesting her parents were either serial killers, or that she has an epic history of Vampire Slayers in the family.
Need a refresher on The Dinner Party?
- Read the snyopsis
- Check out episode stills
- Watch the extended promo
- Read Crissy Calhoun's recap
- See the complete songlist
- Discuss the episode & vote in the poll
Catch up on this week's posts:
- Episode stills for The Last Dance (EP218)
- Official synopsis for The Last Dance (EP218)
- Ask the Vampire Diaries writers questions about the epic moments of season two
- More C2E2 goodness from Julie Plec & Candice Accola (video)
- Vampire-Diaries.net & Vampire Support at EyeCon Vampire Diaries Convention this weekend!
- Show Patrol & Geek Girls C2E2 press room interviews with Michael & Candice (videos)
- Lauren Cohan pulls out of EyeCon (but for a good reason!)
- New promo video interviews with Nina Dobrev, Paul Wesley & Ian Somerhalder
- Michael, Candice & Julie at Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo (video & photos)
- Zap2It confirms new guest star + a full moon in Mystic Falls?
- L.A. Times: Julie Plec teases a character's return, Klaus & flashbacks
- Candice Accola on Tyler, betrayal & Caroline standing up for herself
- Episode stills for Know Thy Enemy (EP217)
- Another episode still from Know Thy Enemy (EP217)
Posted by Vee | February 23, 2011, 13:49 (MST) | 6 Comments
Category: The Vampire Diaries TV
Recovered yet, Vampire Diaries fans? The Dinner Party seems to be ranking right up there with The Return and Masquerade in the hearts of recappers and fans alike. Coincidence that each of those episodes had our "villains" being particularly villain-y? Reading through this week's recaps was a blast, particularly when nearly EVERYONE had a "ZOMG ALARIC WTF?!" moment. So much happened in this episode, but that moment was the epicenter of awesome, for sure.
CHECK OUT THE BITE-SIZED RECAP OF THE DINNER PARTY AT CW's VAMPIRE DIARIES LAIR.
Featured in this installment: The A.V. Club, Heroine TV, L.A. Times, Thomas Galvin, Zap2It, Entertainment Weekly, Off-Color TV, Think Hero, TV.com, iphignia939 on Dreamwidth, Monsters of Television, The TV Watchtower, AOL TV Squad, TV Surveillance, IGN, Billie Doux, Pink Raygun, and our own Crissy Calhoun.
Posted by Red | February 22, 2011, 14:15 (MST) | 1 Comment
Category: The Vampire Diaries TV
With the wolves out of the picture (for now, anyway), Damon has to find some other kind of trouble to get into. What could possibly go wrong with a simple dinner party? Given Elijah's invited and that Damon is teaming up with Alaric… a lot. And that's not the only party going on in town. Flashback to 1864, and we're treated to Stefan's darker side as he attends his own little party.
There's plenty of time to still join in with the buzz following the episode after it aired in the US:
Tune in to ITV2 (and be sure to follow @itv2 on Twitter for some entertaining live-tweeting) at 9pm tonight to catch The Dinner Party, or catch it again at 10pm on ITV2+1. Still need to catch up on the previous episode? You can watch it on ITV Player, or download it in HQ from iTunes UK.
Posted by Crissy Calhoun | February 21, 2011, 9:35 (MST) | 166 Comments
Category: In Review, The Vampire Diaries TV
Did you see that coming? I did not see that coming. The Dinner Party left me happily stunned and shocked. With the werewolf chapter over, it's time for Damon to plot a murder. And if you, like me, were so charmed by Elijah that you forgot why on earth he would even consider killing such a charming, well-mannered, dashing, badass, smoking-hot Original — it's because of his whole "lure Klaus to town and sacrifice Elena" plan. So I guess I see the point in taking him out.
Posted by Vee | February 18, 2011, 12:17 (MST) | No Comments
Category: The Vampire Diaries TV
Courtesy of CW Network, some new flashback stills have been added to The Dinner Party (EP215) gallery. They are, however, HIGHLY SPOILERY, so if you haven't watched last night's episode yet, it might be best to wait before clicking!
Posted by Vee | February 18, 2011, 11:02 (MST) | 7 Comments
Category: The Vampire Diaries TV
Still recovering, fandom? All of those twists, turns, and psych-outs were exhausting. The overnight ratings are in for last night's Vampire Diaries and according to TV By the Numbers, The Dinner Party pulled in 3.01 million viewers. And here's CW's statement:
THE Vampire Diaries ranked #2 to American Idol among W18-34 (2.0/6) last night and jumped 7% in total viewers (3M) and 7% in A18-49 (1.4/4) versus last week, while remaining steady in A18-34 (1.5/5).
Canadian fans: watch the episode the CTV website or MuchMusic.
Some quick links to the usual:
- Reaction post & poll – The Dinner Party (EP215)
- Complete songlist for The Dinner Party (EP215)
- Extended promo for The House Guest (EP216)
Posted by Vee | February 18, 2011, 0:40 (MST) | 9 Comments
Category: The Vampire Diaries TV
Courtesy of Chris Mollere, Vampire Diaries' music supervisor – follow him on Twitter!:
Songs listed in order of appearance.
|Foster The People "Pumped Up Kicks"
|Pet Lions "When I Grow Old"
|The XX "Islands"
|The National "Lemonworld"
|The Airborne Toxic Event "Happiness Is Overrated"
Order the Official Vampire Diaries Soundtrack
Track Listing
Official Soundtrack Site
Download from iTunes USA
Order from Amazon USA
Order from Amazon UK
Posted by Red | February 17, 2011, 18:30 (MST) | 250 Comments
Category: The Vampire Diaries TV
This post is a sticky. Keep scrolling for more news.
We all know that Stefan is a pretty good cook, but what about Damon? Is the elder Salvatore a whizz in the kitchen, or has he enlisted the help of the cook at the Mystic Grill to make something delectable? Will there be more Peach Cobbler? And is there Chunky Monkey to go with it? Is Damon's silverware as good as Jenna's? Sorry, there's other stuff going on in this episode besides Damon's Dinner Party of Doom? Oh! That's right! Flashback time, and it looks like we're getting treated to some evil!Stefan. We all love it when Stefan goes bad, right?
Watch and then swing by here to rate the new episode of The Vampire Diaries. Spoilers are welcome in the comments, though if you want some more in-depth discussion then head on over to the forums! (You'll need to register, but it takes two seconds.)
You can also participate in the chatroom, and we have a channel specifically for discussing the episode live – just click on the tab when you're in the main chatroom. You will need to be a member of the forums to join in.
Quick guide to the poll options: What dinner party is complete without the decent china? 5 Place Settings = LOVE. 1 Place Setting = MEH.
Posted by Vee | February 17, 2011, 16:21 (MST) | 1 Comment
Category: The Vampire Diaries TV
The lovely Ms. Sara Canning has been rolling through the interviews today, so we're rounding them up in one post for your sanity.
Entertainment Weekly: 'The Vampire Diaries' – Sara Canning teases big moment in tonight's episode
In a chat with EW, Sara Canning teases a huge event in that will happen at the end of tonight's episode, which finds us delving into Stefan's past and at a dinner party at Salvatore HQ.
"Something shakes her up a lot," she said.
She was mum on details, but my vampy senses say it could be something with Elijah, with whom Canning said her character has "developed a working friendship."
E!Online: The Vampire Diaries: If You Ask Us, Aunt Jenna Is Totally Screwed
How are things with Jenna and Alaric, and Jenna and the kids?
I think the major thing right now is that Jeremy and Elena have a very different relationship right now with Alaric (Matt Davis) than Jenna does. They have a really nice family dynamic, the four of them, I think Jeremy and Elena really like him and that Jenna is so happy, but it's like a threesome of secrets against her. We've seen Jenna and Alaric in the cozy, romantic phase, but things can only go so far from them not without them being honest with their significant others—and maybe it's time for a little trouble in paradise.
TVLine: Will Vampire Diaries' Jenna Ever Discover Mystic Falls' Deep, Dark Secrets?
"I'm really excited to see what's going to happen with Jenna by the end of the season," Canning shares with a laugh. "I can relate to her in-the-dark thing because as an actor, I don't know what going to happen. It's always a nice little surprise."
HollywoodLife: 'Vampire Diaries' Scoop: Will Jenna Dump Alaric… For Elijah? Exclusive Interview!
"She's really intrigued by Elijah, and we see that develop nicely in this episode," Sara teases. "When she hears about a dinner party, she says, 'Oh, this is great. This Elijah guy is cool. I think I'll pick his brain some more. I'm not sure what to think about my boyfriend right now…"


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Stock Market Now On Pace for Best Month Since 1974. Yes, 1974.
The stock market's ridiculous month is now even ridiculous-er.
The S&P 500 is up 13.6% so far this month, putting it on pace for its biggest monthly gain since October 1974, notes Bespoke Investment Group.
This would be the ninth-best month in the whole history of the S&P 500 — aside from October 1974, all the other biggest one-month gains came in the 1930s, which is kind of ominous, if you think about it. Also kind of ominous: The S&P 500 fell 5% in the month following October 1974.
As Bespoke points out, a lot of people who are old hands in this market were not even alive the last time stocks had such a good month.
A refresher course on October 1974:
- The Oval Office was still echoing with Richard Nixon's rantings; he'd only resigned two months before.
- Elvis Presley, Bob Marley and John Lennon were all still alive and all released albums that month.
- The month ended with the Rumble in the Jungle, between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman. Ali knocked out Foreman to regain the world heavyweight title.


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Things are starting to look a bit brighter for Venus Williams as she has just grabbed the Dubai Championship title. According to ESPN on Feb. 22, the tennis star came through to win over Alize Cornet of France in a 6-3, 6-0 victory. This is her third Dubai title, winning in 2009 and 2010.
The seven-time Grand Slam champion breezed right through this past week as she won over Elena Vesnina, Ana Ivanovic, Flavia Pennetta, and Caroline Wozniacki. It was looking towards a final match up with her sister, Serena Williams, for the title. However, it was not to be as Cornet upset Serena in the semi-final on Friday. Serena has been battling a back injury since the Australian Open and ended up looking quite sluggish on the court.
Playing as a wild card, Venus Williams commanded the court, not letting her opponent win even one game in the second set. What was the her reaction after the win?
"Wow. It's wonderful to be back after a four-year absence," Venus said. "I really was expecting to play Serena in the final, but [Cornet] really played a massive game in the semifinal so congratulations for that."
The 33-year-old champ has been battling Sjogren's Syndrome, which means that fatigue sets in easily. However, the 44th ranked tennis star certainly hasn't let that stop her in this particular tournament. It seems that she has taken very good care of herself being able to manage the disease and it shows. She did say that her health seems to be improving a bit and that she was able to go out and practice more. Whatever she is doing , it sure is working for her.
This is Venus' first title since 2012 when she won the Luxembourg tournament. She is expected to move up to number 29 in the ATP ranking next week.


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Self-service is more than just scheduling work online and letting employees review positions following the rules which you define — Months from now, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it.
What our customers have said about self-service with Shiftboard:
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—Josh Welborn
Welborn Relief Agency
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—Stephanie White
University of California-Berkeley
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—Mike Moraski
Delivery Express
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—Trish Marquis
Associated Order Processors
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—Gloria Campbell
Los Angeles Film Festival
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—Michael Recupito
Security Dynamics Corp.
"What's really nice is that the onus is now on the students to sign up and attend. They have the tools, whether they choose to use them or not. If they choose not to, then so be it."
—Justin Longsworth Jaeger
Michigan State University
"It's a paradigm shift. We've gone from a system where we assigned everyone their service times, to one where our deacons sign up when and where they are available. That was something I did not even conceive of before Shiftboard."
—Jeremy Watkins
Johnson Ferry Baptist Church
10. You actually gain more control over your scheduling, not lose it (a common fear).
Your organization can move to "managing by exception" rather than a fire-drill assigning, changing, and re-assigning every shift.
9. The favorite game of "play pinata with the scheduler" will abruptly end.
With self-service, if an employee does not get desired shifts there's only one person to blame... and it's not the scheduler!
8. Self service is not all or nothing (another common fear).
You can assign critical shifts to your best folks for quality control, but let some other shifts be picked up to save time. And of course those open shifts will only be seen by a hand-picked list that you select. So dip your toe in at first.
7. You can re-subscribe to the morning paper.
Why? Because the system was working for you all night. More than 30% of the millions of shifts in Shiftboard are picked up between 7pm and 7am, when you are not at your desk. Come morning, you can quickly glance at how much of your schedule filled overnight while doing the daily crossword. Or would you rather still be returning those 20+ voicemails?
6. Workers only see shifts they are qualified to pick up, and you decide what shifts they are qualified for.
Remember that "losing control" fear? We're slaying that dragon here, so hop aboard.
5. Your best performers rise quickly to the top.
The most organized, diligent members of your team will inevitably pick up the most shifts (within your overtime restrictions of course). A system that encourages motivated behavior — can it be?
4. You get to be Kevin Costner for a day.
To paraphrase — "If you post it, they will come." Your folks want to work, so they will pick up shifts. Trust us on that one. You may be worried that your employees won't pick up the shifts you post — instead, you should worry about all the extra time you will have to grow your business.
3. "You want SPEED?? You can't handle speed!!"
Why do we keep quoting early 90's movies? (remember Jack Nicholson in "A Few Good Men"?) You'll be amazed how fast things happen in the self-service scheduling world. We routinely hear about 1,000 shifts picked up in an hour. We've seen 50,000 go in a day. Buckle up.
2. Your company might become more competitive without needing to pay higher rates.
More employees today need flexibility in their schedule to work a second job, care for an aging parent, go back to school, or raise a family. Having some control over their schedule is worth more to many than an extra few dollars per shift. Plus, you can be faster and more responsive to your clients. Wow.
1. The Rolling Stones and The Who can retire.
With both bands touring in their 60's, something must replace them as a counter-culture icon soon! Could it be employees scheduling some of their time for you?


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Dawn is now and I'm fighting for reality
tensions growing ever grander.
Is it right to fight?
That's the question isn't it?
Is it right to hold on
when something is failing,
falling apart so rapidly?
This advancing time
is playing havoc with my life
and I can't explain
what it's doing to humanity.
I want to be the hero
and save the day,
but you see me only as you're enemy,
the nemesis of life's normality.
Let's ride this changing tide together
and conquer our own existence equally,
and in so doing,
find the truth that's hiding.
Make me your champion
against this rising hate
so one day we'll know peace
and this moments tempered grace.


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Red Ruby Rose Clutches
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We have a gorgeous wedding that we'll be sharing today, but first I'd like to introduce you to Red Ruby Rose clutches. If you haven't heard of them yet, you must be living under a rock! Their sleek designs are comprised of their own patterns and top of the line materials, not to mention that each of them is made by hand. Rowena also accepts custom orders, so you can use your own pattern or swap lining/exterior.
Below are some of my favorites…I am loving particularly the second one. It can be used either for a 1930's Art Deco wedding or for a modern fête. Plus, it doesn't scream bridal, so you can continue to use after the wedding day. The print on the last one is a vintage telegram, you know I couldn't resist sharing!
From Rowena:
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So happy to see Rowena getting some well-deserved props on Ruffled. The woman is a purse genius! I've been a huge fan of hers for awhile now. I like that you mentioned how many of her designs don't "scream" bridal — I couldn't agree more. What better way to rock serious personal style at your wedding AND be able to use your hot new clutch after your special day?!
Love it!
Leigh Pearce
I WILL be ordering one of these very soon. The peacock clutch is going to be perfect with my bridesmaid dress in an upcoming wedding.. and I'm thinking one will be a perfect wedding gift to my best friend AKA the bride! Thanks Ruffled for featuring such a great Etsy find.
Kirsten A.
I LOVE these. The last one is especially fun. These would be perfect for a bridal that doesn't want the traditional white satin or as a super fun bridesmaid gift. I would have loved to have passed out personal custom designed clutches to my bridesmaids. How fun.


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Security Services offers a Security Escort Program 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Escorts are available to locations on and off campus. For safety reasons we cannot provide escorts to or from medical facilities.
Off campus escorts are available by vehicle, with the following boundaries:
Note: Dependant on staff availability, escorts to and from off campus locations may be provided by a local taxi company at the request and expense of the university.
To request an escort please call the Security Services office at x3311 (253.879.3311 from off campus).


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Suppose we only have the material conditional C and logical negation N for a system of propositional calculus, with only variables and no constants in any formula. Suppose that formulas like Cpq aren't considered distinct from Cxy or Crs or Cab, though Cpp does get considered distinct from Cpq (I don't know how to define this exactly). With that in mind, there don't exist any theorems of one letter, or two letters, and the only theorem of three letters is Cpp. There are no theorems of four letters since none of {NCpq, NCpp, CpNq, CNpq, CpNp, CNpp} are theorems (unless I've missed a possibility). How many theorems exist of 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 letters? Since "combinatorial explosion" seems to happen here, what sort of methods can one use to attack such a problem?
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The 290 tautologies in at most 8 symbols, up to $\alpha$-equivalence, are:
There are 1113 more with exactly 9 letters.
I generated the above list with the following Mathematica code:
Using this code, one computes in a couple of minutes that the sequence counting tautologies starts with $$0, 0, 1, 0, 7, 11, 73, 198, 1113, 3755, 18957, 75723, \dots $$ This is not in the EOIS.
To solve for the general case, solve a system of generating functions. One function in the system will represent the number of ways of computing one boolean function $f$ as a sequence of $d$ characters from C, N, p, q, the number for length $d$ being the coefficient of $z^d$ in $f$.
The system of gfs is one definition of a generating function for every logical function on two variables. And each definition will have terms to correspond to how you can compute the boolean function using the two connectives and two variables.
For convenience, let the label of a function be spelled out as the truth table of that function, and the result of an operation is pairwise.
For example, since TFTT (the boolean function corresponding to 'p implies q', can be gotten only by C TTFF TFTF or N FTFF, the gf for the function TFTT is
$$TFTT(z) = z TTFF(z) TFTF(z) + z FTFF(z)$$
because $z$ increments the exponent for the character C and also for the character N. So you'll have a system of sixteen equations, one for each boolean function on 2 variables, with only the base cases being for TTFF(z) and TFTF(z) for p and q respectively. The grammar of constructions for the entire set is context free, because the syntax of C and N is context free and the semantics of boolean functions is compositional.
I have feeling this system won't simplify very practically because it won't be particularly sparse. For example, TTTT(z), representing all theorems, is from N FFFF or C TTTT TTTT or C TTTF TTTT or C TTFT TTTT or ...
There might be a pattern to exploit to eliminate some variables systematically, or one could use Groebner Bases to do it to solve blindly (with a computer algebra package).
To see how bad it is with 2 variables start with just 1 variable.
TT = N FF or C TT TT or C TF TT or C TF TF or C FT TT or C FF FT or C FF TT or C FF TF or C FF FT or C FF FF
To really solve the system will get you a generating function from which one might have some computational difficulty extracting coefficients. Instead, to get values manageably one can simply substitute polynomials of degree $n$, and compute, resubstituting in the new polynomials (truncating any degree generated over $n$), until it stops changing (similar to Gauss Jordan style solution of a matrix equation).


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US athletes competing in this year's Winter Olympics in Sochi have been advised by the State Department not to wear their uniforms outside of the games, according to Yahoo! today.
The State Department memo, which was reviewed by the Wall Street Journal, says, ""The U.S. Department of State has advised that wearing conspicuous Team USA clothing in non-accredited areas may put your personal safety at greater risk."
The creator of the uniforms, "Ralph Lauren," which is synonymous with fashion and patriotism, couldn't have been a better fit for Team USA Gear, or a bigger headache for security as it turns out. The uniforms are apparently bold, bright, and scream "USA". With a distinct uniform such as this, traveling outside the secured area, also known as the "Ring of Steel," could mean risky business for some US Olympians.
This comes on the heels from earlier this month, when the State Department issued a warning to Americans regarding traveling to Sochi and how it may pose a target for terrorists. As these incidents keep adding up, so do the cancelations and forgoing of trips to Sochi by the athletes' families and would-be patrons.


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Sep 26, 2012 10:25 AM
Your cool aunt probably wore something like this MM Couture Longsleeve Print Top ($68) at her engagement party. And by "engagement party", we mean the day she brought that guy she picked up at Woodstock home to meet the parents. Even without the psychedelic substances, we think it's still a pretty sharp look.
If you've got a product or service that you'd like to promote on Outblush, click here to find out about our advertising opportunities.
Outblush is a blog for girls who love to shop. Our staff digs up the best clothes, home stuff, beauty items, and more. New items are posted every day — bookmark us and check out:


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Want more FUN CAT GAMES?
On TheCatSite.com Cat Forums we don't only discuss cats, but also play fun cat games at the arcade! Join the cat forums to play and compete with other cat lovers in cool gaming tournaments!
Connect the calico kitties so they line up. Watch the moves of your opponent, the grey kitty, or you may lose the match...
This is a three-level game - have fun!


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Dell's predecessor to the Streak pseudo-tablet was initially leaked way back in April, but all had been quiet on that front until today. Michael Dell, the CEO of Dell Inc., gave a big tease to the audience at a conference by pulling a 7 inch Android tablet from his pocket and showing it off for the crowd.
He was pretty tight lipped on specs or a release date, but the tablet resembles the "Looking Glass" tablet that was leaked with a Tegra 2 processor, 800x480 display, and 1.3 mp camera running Android 2.1. Dell also announced that the Streak would be heading to Best Buy stores next month, but gave nothing up on whether the Streak (or the new tablet) would be getting Froyo anytime soon.


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Hypochlorhydria - Possible Cause of Bad Breath
Contributed by: Jimi Stein
Views: 67,235
I just found out another possible cause of Bad Breath that is called hypochlorhydria, when the stomach doesn't produce enough acid. Somebody mentioned it and he had a bad breath for really long time, but when he started taking HCL with pepsine, his bad breath was gone. In the following sentences you can find out more about hypochlorhydria.
People with hypochlorhydria often say that they feel hungry all the time. Food isn't being properly digested, and absorption of nutrients is impaired, triggering hunger.
How common is hypochlorhydria?
More common than you might think. It's estimated that 10 to 15% of the population have hypochlohydria. Stomach acid production naturally declines with age beginning in the mid thirties. By the time people reach their fifties, some doctors who treat this condition say that the percentage of people with this condition is closer to 50%. While it's undisputed that production of stomach acid slows with age, most conventional doctors don't test for or know how to treat this condition.
What are the signs and symptoms of hypochlorhydria?
- gas, bloating, burping after meals
- sluggish digestion - food seems to sit in the stomach after meals.
- heartburn not due to excess acidity
- bad breath - undigested meat protein putrefies in the intestines, producing foul-smelling odor.
- upset stomach, diarrhea
- iron deficiency
- low energy
- weak, brittle, or peeling nails
- dilated capillaries in the cheeks and nose
- dry and thin hair and skin
- acne
Why is stomach acid important?
Stomach acid plays a vital role in maintaining good health. Let's take a look at some of the functions these gastric juices have:
- Stomach acid is needed to digest protein. The acid activates an enzyme, pepsin, which breaks down the protein we eat. If there is insufficient stomach acid, hair, skin, and nails become weak and deficiencies of vital hormones, enzymes, and neurotransmitters can result.
- Stomach acid stimulates the pancreas to produce digestive enzymes. Stomach acid mixes with the food we eat and it's this acidity that triggers the pancrease to release digestive enzymes lipase (to digest fat), amylase (to digest crabohydrates), and protease (to further digest protein). If there is hypochlorhydria, digestion of fat and carbohydrates are also impaired, resulting in bloating, indigestion, and deficiency of fat soluble vitamins A, D, E, K.
- Stomach acid helps keep the digestive tract free of unwanted bacteria and yeast. Hypochlorhydria can lead to bacterial overgrowth and candida yeast infection, resulting in poor digestion, bloating, IBS-like symptoms, fatigue, and chronic yeast infections.
- Stomach acid is needed to absorb minerals. One clue to doctors is low iron, even though the person gets enough in their diet. Other minerals that rely on stomach acid to be absorbed are calcium and zinc. Chronic malabsorption of these minerals can manifest as low bone density and increased susceptibility to colds and flu.
What causes hypochlorhydria?
bacterial infection (h pylori)
- aging
- adrenal fatigue
- chronic stress
- alcohol consumption
Related conditions
Because food isn't being properly digested and nutrients aren't absorbed, hypochlohydria is believed to contribute to the onset of many diseases, including: Chronic fatigue syndrome, autoimmune Diseases, rosacea, vitiligo, gallbladder disease, hypoglycemia, asthma, adrenal fatigue, chronic hepatitis, celiac Disease, chronic thyroiditis, diabetes, eczema, food allergies, gastritis, Graves disease, hepatitis, hives, lupus, osteoporosis, pernicious Anemia, psoriasis, thyrotoxicosis, ulcerative colitis, multiple sclerosis (MS), and rheumatoid arthritis.
How is hypochlorhydria diagnosed?
If you think you may have hypochlorhydria, it's important to receive a proper diagnosis, because hypochlorhydria can be confused with hyperacidity and gastric ulcers, conditions at the opposite end of the spectrum.
The Heidelberg Gastric Analysis test is considered one of the most accurate. It's also one of the most expensive tests. The Heidelberg test involves swallowing a vitamin-sized capsule containing a pH meter and radio transmitter. The patient then drinks a solution of water and bicarbonate of soda, which normally stimulates the release of stomach acid. The pH is transmitted to a receiver that is placed on the outside of a person's body near the stomach, and the fluctuations in pH are plotted on a graph, called a gastrogram. After the test, the capsule passes through the digestive tract and is excreted.
The gastro test is a simple, less expensive version of the Heidelberg. It's also less accurate. The gastro test involves swallowing a vitamin-sized capsule containing pH string. Holding the end of the string, the patient swallows the capsule, which dissolves as it makes its way down the esophagus until it the opposite end is in the stomach. After 10 to 15 minutes, the end of the string that the patient is holding is gently pulled until the entire length of the string is removed. The end that was in the stomach is compared to a color key to measure the pH. It should be in the acid range. Neutral pH is a sign of hypochlorhydria. This may also be combined with a baking soda challenge.
Natural treatments for hypochlorhydria
- Chew thoroughly - One of the most simple things you can do to lessen the job of your digestive juices is to chew your food thoroughly.
- Multivitamin - Because hypochlorhydria can cause malabsorption of many vitamins and minerals, it's important to take a good multivitamin/mineral supplement.
- B complex - An extra B complex supplement may be necessary for some. Vitamins B1 and B5 help to repair the stomach glands, vitamin B3 helps increase acid release, and folic acid and vitamin B12 are often deficient in someone with hypochlorhydria.
- Bitter herbs - Bitter herbs stimulate the secretion of stomach acid and digestive enzymes. Examples of bitter herbs are gentian and dandelion. To have the full effect, they must be taken in liquid form (vs. capsule), because it's the bitterness that triggers the release of the digestive juices. Add up to 3 ml of the herb tincture to room temperature or warm water and sip. Drink 15 to 30 minutes before eating. Another option is to buy a herbal tea containing bitter herbs and drink one cup before eating.
- Digestive Enzymes - Look for a blend that includes lipase to digest fat, protease to digest protein, and amylase to digest carbohydrates.
- Betaine Hydrochloride - Look for a capsule (not tablet) that contains both betaine hydrochloride and pepsin. It should be taken at the start of a meal, and the dose depends on the size of the meal. I only recommend taking this under the supervision of a health care practitioner, because too much can lead to stomach bleeding or ulcers even in the absence of symptoms. Betaine hydrochloride also should not be taken by people taking cortisone, NSAIDS, or aspirin. People who have peptic ulcer disease or abdominal pain also shouldn't take betaine hydrochloride. If abdominal pain, burning, discomfort, dark stools occur, it should be discontinued immediately.
- Herbal antimicrobial- If there is bacterial or yeast overgrowth (a typical symptom is bloating after eating carbohydrates) grapefruit seed extract, clove, peppermint may help eradicate unwanted bacteria and yeast.
- Ginger Tea - Ginger aids digestion and elimination, and reduces bloating. In Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine, ginger is a digestive tonic. Learn how to make ginger tea.


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Storyteller • Educator • Author • Musician
Storyteller • Educator • Author • Musician
The Evergreens
Gentle Tales of Nature
Gentle, beautiful nature tales for the very young.
Includes The Evergreens, a Danish Folktale,
The Name of the Tree, a Bantu Folktale,
The Woman Who Fell from the Sky, an Iroquois
Myth, The Lion Makers, a Fable from Bhutan,
and The Wind and the Sun, an Aesop's Fable
WINNER Family Channel Seal of Approval
WINNER Parents' Choice Seal of Approval
40 minutes
Perkins Panda
From the Perkins School web site:
The Perkins Panda Early Literacy Program® is the culmination of a multi-year effort of our staff in collaboration with Odds Bodkin and educational leaders across North America. Continuing Perkins School's commitment to early education and intervention, this program is a unique compilation of materials that teach fundamental early literacy skills to children and help parents be more involved in their child's development.
Included in the kit are three packets, each with an interrelated storybook, activity guide and cassette. In addition, there is a guide to additional resources, a story box and a Gund stuffed panda with a backpack that can hold a tape player. The storybooks all have uncontracted (beginning stage) braille, large print and high-contrast illustrations.
The Program has been designed for children with visual impairments, ages birth to eight years old, and the parents, families and professionals who care for them. It is equally valuable to older children with multiple disabilities, as well as to adults with visual impairments for use with sighted children.
Perkins Panda Endorsements from the Perkins Panda
web site:
"I am writing to offer an enthusiastic endorsement on behalf of the American Council of the Blind…. Hardly a day goes by at our national office when we don't receive a telephone call or an e-mail message from a parent or family member looking for help and reassurance about 'the best way to raise' a blind or visually impaired child. We look forward to telling these family members about this excellent project…."
– Penny Reeder, American Council of the Blind
"We usually have a difficult time getting [our daughter] to sit down and become interested in reading a book. The program was very successful in getting her engaged with the stories through the songs and activities that accompanied the stories…. It made reading time a fun time…."
– Barbara Smith, Parent
"I often review materials submitted by teachers and organizations for possible publication. I recommend few of these…[but] I would recommend the Perkins Panda Program for wider distribution to our field."
– Suzette Wright, formerly of American Printing House for the Blind and co-author of On the Way to Literacy.
"I'm so happy to say at last Shayne had a toy he found both joy and comfort with…. As a parent, I highly recommend Perkins Panda."
– Karin Luciano, Parent
"I am writing to enthusiastically support development of the Perkins Panda kit as a fun and functional learning toy for young children with vision impairments…. We are delighted that the Perkins Panda will be available to encourage literacy in such an active way for young children with visual impairments. The kit is an ideal gift and also a valuable learning tool for service organizations to provide for families and school programs."
– Julie Bernas-Pierce, Blind Babies Foundation
"As we prepare our blind and visually impaired children for enriched experiences in a widening world, the Perkins Panda materials have been an answer to the need for excellence in appropriate literacy programming."
– Terri Connolly, Visually Impaired Preschool Services
"We have introduced the book to one blind child at the infant level. We have observed a curiosity with the book, and the parent is excited to see her child responding positively to books…. We feel this helps the parent have expectations for their child that otherwise they often do not have."
– Mary Ellen McCann, Blind Children's Center
"I just wanted to say thank you for creating Perkins Panda."
– Judy Cooper, Parent
Dear parent,
I created PERKINS PANDA® for the Perkins School for the Blind, where Helen Keller went to school and makers of the Brailler. The Perkins Panda Early Literacy Kit includes special audio stories, music, picture books and toys, along with a plush Gund© Panda bear. You can read about Perkins Panda below. Both images to the left are links to the Perkins School online store.
PERKINS PANDA is fun for sighted babies, too! Your baby or toddler will hear gentle songs and a warm, comforting bear voice.
Afloat in Mom's Ocean:
How Babies Listen for Language
by Odds Bodkin
Here's a quick experiment. Say the word "tell." I know it sounds simple-minded but you're skimming the edge of my article anyway, so why not? It only takes a second.
Notice the little dance the tip of your tongue has just performed on the roof of your mouth?
Try it again.
When you made the "T" did your tongue hold back a little pocket of air, then let it
shoot down the back of your front teeth and out your mouth? Don't do this too many times or "tell" will become strange, as my son Jon calls repeating a word so many times it loses all meaning.
"Feral," I say to him. "The word becomes feral."
"What's 'feral'?"
"Reduced to its essential nature, without any mental meaning stuck to it."
When you repeat a word many times, the imagery it conveys bleaches out and you're left with your tongue, lips, teeth and breath creating funny noises––what this article is all about––phonemes.
Word atoms.
The essential building blocks of language. After all, that's what storytelling uses.
Phonemes. There are only about fifty of them, yet they number plenty for all human languages.
Try a variation on Mr. T. Try pronouncing the word "sit."
Now what's your tongue doing? A little different, eh? Pardon the pun, but does your tongue close like a pull-down attic door and, well, just sit there?
An entirely different T from the one that shoots out the air. But still the same phoneme. In fact, we seldom notice the difference. We hear the same "T" and filter out all those tip-of-the-tongue nuances nobody thinks about anyway.
Babies hear phonemes, too. In 1974 scientist William Condon discovered that beginning in the seventh month of pregnancy, floating in mom's ocean, babies start listening very hard (Science, Jan.11, 1974). He noticed babies in utero made fifty or
so distinct muscular movements––and did so instantly––whenever mom said something. Or dad.
Each movement, he discovered, matched a phoneme. Same phoneme, same movement. Every time.
Later, other scientists in Stockholm discovered that "babies in the womb were not only hearing, but apparently learning speech and 'practicing' the fine neuro-muscular movements of the vocal tract that are used in crying and vocalizing after birth." (Chamberlain, 1988).
So when you first held that wailing newborn of yours, baby had been practicing the big show for quite a while, you can count on it.
The point of all this is that your baby, child, or teen has been hardwired for language since fetal times, and how well your child ends up able to use language is something you can get to work on from the get go.
So talk to your baby. Sing to your baby. Play classical music for your baby. And once your baby is born, tell stories to her, or him. Read aloud. Converse.
Even if all you get in return is goo-goo gah-gah and some runny poop, don't fret.
There's a genius in there.
All content © 2012 Odds Bodkin/Rivertree Productions
Story Downloads
Story Recordings
Ages 2-3
mp3 Price: $8.95
CD Price: $14.95


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Also Kirarin Revolution 12, Rento 2, and the Between Two Hearts finale.
Edited because m&c! sed the Lovely Days volume 1-6 box set reissue DID make it in time for 23rd December.
Eden no Trill © Fujita Maki/Akita Shoten (Serialized in Princess)
Published in Indonesia as Song of Love by PT Gramedia/m&c!
This 23 December m&c! manga post constitutes the last Gramedia release sked for 2009; the next time you'll see new manga in stores will be on 6 January 2010.
The rain continues to fall as I write this, but Song of Love (Eden no Trill) volume 5 turns up the heat, so it's okay. Just as Ritsu finally gets a handle on Eiri's older brother Enji, she finds herself "abducted" by another Takamura sib (the eldest). How will Eiri react to his
possession getting snatched without his permission?
NG Boy x Paradise © Miyawaki Yukino/Shogakukan
Published in Indonesia by PT Gramedia/m&c!
This 2K9-closing release also brings us an NG Boy x Paradise trifecta (talk about voluble persistence paying off and how). Miyawaki Yukino's shoujo series, which has only been a mainstay of my Cherry babble, finally releases in tankoubon. NG Para tells of Kashiwabara Miu's love triangle romance with idol twins Kamishiro Manato and Mahiro. In volume 1, Miu discovers the twins' secret and ends up living with the boys. Volume 2 has Miu falling head over heels with Mahiro and discovering another secret (named Shiori). The finale volume 3 predictably sees Miu all confused after (the wrong twin?) Manato kisses her.
NG Boy x Paradise isn't the only Cherry serial to come out in book form this round; there's also Love Puzzle (Koi Puzzle) and Naze Nani Honey?, both from Satsuki Mikiko (1/6 Jump! manga-ka).
Love Puzzle stars three sisters in search of romance. The eldest, Aihara Tsukasa, only longs for Zen and is crushed when she finds out that Zen will be transferring to a high school in Tokyo. Middle sister Wakasa knows the pain of love gone wrong but apparently hasn't learned her lesson; she goes and falls for close friend Meguro. With all this rabu rabu in the air, is it any wonder that when third sis Mikasa falls in love, it's love at first sight?
Mioko, meanwhile, isn't looking for love initially. She has enough trouble already, what with her notoriety for not being able to speak English, despite her very Western looks. Japanese Rei, on the other hand, can only converse in English. Find out how the pair stumbles on to love when Rei comes to live with Mioko in Naze Nani Honey?.
The rest of the summaries—for the remaining debuting series Ohagi Number One, Rento 2, Petualangan Pingu 2, Kirarin Revolution 12, and Between Two Hearts 3—are after the manga list.
Mangazine: Cherry 38/2009
The latest edition of Cherry, m&c!'s monthly anthology of Shogakukan shoujo (and sometimes, josei) titles, features Takoyaki Princess by Mizuho Rino as the front cover. Uchi's quest to have everyone in a little town enjoying takoyaki was first serialized in Ciao. (And here I thought its original home had been ChuChu, just like NG Para, Naze Nani Honey?, and Love Puzzle.) The mangazine also has its regular features/columns:
Creative Land, and
m&c! is very proud to say that Issue 38 comes with a bonus Beauty Pop (one of the titles still in serialization) 2010 calendar poster — and you don't even have to join a quiz to snag one.
m&c! manga (2009.12.23)
Release links are hide/unhide. Click for more details and cover scans.
- Between Two Hearts (Hitohira no Koi ga Furu) 3 of 3 by Yabuuchi Yuu [Finale]
- Kirarin Revolution 12 of 14 by Nakahara An
- [New] Love Puzzle (Koi Puzzle) by Satsuki Mikiko
- [New] Naze Nani Honey? by Satsuki Mikiko
- [Premiere] NG Boy x Paradise 1 of 3 by Miyawaki Yukino
- [New] NG Boy x Paradise 2 of 3 by Miyawaki Yukino
- [New] NG Boy x Paradise 3 of 3 by Miyawaki Yukino [Finale]
- [Premiere] Ohagi Number One 1 of 4 by Komuro Eiko
- Petualangan Pingu 2 by HIT Entertainment
- Rento 2 of 3 by Karube Junko
- Song of Love (Eden no Trill) 5 of 7+ by Fujita Maki
Hitohira no Koi ga Furu 「 ひとひらの恋が降る 」
Kirarin Revolution 「 きらりん☆レボリューション 」 by Nakahara An
Koi Puzzle 「 コイパズル 」 by Satsuki Mikiko
Naze Nani Honey? 「 なぜなにHoney? 」
NG Boy x Paradise 「 NG BOY×パラダイス 」
Volume 2 first published in Japan 2007.02
Volume 3 first published in Japan 2007.06
Ohagi the Number One! by Komuro Eiko
Eden no Trill 「 楽園のトリル 」 by Fujita Maki
Box sets
- [REISSUE] Lovely Days (Sakura Zensen) 1 to 6 of 6 by Obayashi Miyuki [Box set @ IDR 99,000]
Sakura Zensen 「 さくら前線 」
by Obayashi Miyuki
Shogakukan ChuChu, shoujo
These volumes first published in Japan between 2006.07 to 2008.04
(1) Sources: Elex Media STO 23 December 2009 (release schedule) and m&c!
(2) All manga above priced IDR 15,000 each, except Buku Bergambar Anak: Pingu 2 (SRP: IDR 39,900).
(3) Links like this are Amazon.com (or other online merchants) search and/or product links (commercial), in case you're interested in another language version.
There's actually a bright side to being tardy with this schedule; I was so late, I caught the advisory that the Lovely Days 1-6 manga box set and the Death Note 7-9 (Paket Hijau) and 10-12 (Paket Biru) reissues had been postponed before I got around to posting this. « Edit: As stated at the top of this post, the Lovely Days manga box set is included in this release sked.
Synopses continued...
Between Two Hearts 3 of 3
Hitohira no Koi ga Furu 「 ひとひらの恋が降る 」 by Yabuuchi Yuu
Even though she finds it difficult to admit, Haruru now knows who owns her heart. So how come she still harbors doubts about her destined one?
Kirarin Revolution 12
「 きらりん☆レボリューション 」 by Nakahara An
Having promised Hayami, Kirari bows out of showbiz. But the decision is harder on her than she'd expected; she still pines for the days when she was an idol. Staging a comeback, however, is near impossible, since she announced her retirement on live TV.
Ohagi Number One volume 1
Ohagi the Number One! 「 おはぎザ・ナンバーわん! 」 by Komuro Eiko
Rika doesn't know what her parents are thinking, bringing home a big and fat dog, knowing that she's afraid of canines. To make things worse, Rika has to take care of the dog named Ohagi. Her pitiful situation turns 180 when Ohagi lets Rika get close to her crush, Yamamoto.
Petualangan Pingu 2
by HIT Entertainment
Pingu's playful adventures continue, with Pinga, Pingi, Robby, and Pingo in
Pingu yang Malang (Poor Pingu!),
Sahabat Pingu (Pingu's friend),
Sekolah Meluncur (Sliding School), and
Pingu Bau (Pingu stinks!).
Rento 2
「 れんと。 」 by Karube Junko
Everyone who passes through Genman bridge forgets about the experience. Everyone, that is, except orphaned Rento, who considers the bridge precious because that was where she met her mother. Albert parentless, Rento still manages to bring smiles to the faces of the people around her through her own sincere smile.
~niki DBA huamulan03 (花木蘭03) who wishes everyone,
A Very Blessed Christmas and a Peace-filled New Year!
P.S. This is probably NOT going to be my last post for December. Look for the 6 January 2010 manga releases next!
Cover images and source summaries used here for reference are © their respective intellectual rights holders. No infringement intended.
manga currently on sale (16 December 2009 street date)
- Elex Media: Black Butler 3 · Pandora Hearts 4 · The Ruler of Nabari 5 · Fruits Basket 22 · The Puppet Master Lin 1 by Wada Shinji · Shonen Star 60/2009 · The Comic Club by Emon & Radit (local comic)
- Level Comics: Under the Rose 1 by Funato Akari · Fight!! Ippo 72 · Yugo The Negotiator 19 · Ergo Proxy 2 of 2 · Glass Chair 3
- m&c!: A Badboy Drinks Tea 4 · The Scent of Love 6 · Sweet Sweet Darling by Morio Masami · Long Hu Men 162 · Narutoya Ramen Road 5 · Dive!! 3
Next available manga (23 December 2009 street date)
- Elex Media: Ouran High School Host Club 8 · La Corda D'Oro 6 · HanaLaLa 45/2009 · Yakitate!! Japan 15 · Innocent Love Story: Girls Who Pass Through Time by Kayama Yumi · Innocent World by Yamada Daisy
- Level Comics: First Kiss anthology by Miyasaka Kaho, Minami Kanan et al. · 21st Century Boys 2 of 2 · Death's Notice 4 · Lucky Luke - Jembatan Mississippi · Lucky Luke - Kid Lucky by Morris, Pearce, and J. Léturgie
other invaluable resources
7net Shopping · Baka-Updates Manga
Technorati tags
manga · m&c! · shoujo · Eden no Trill · Hitohira no Koi ga Furu · Kirarin Revolution · Koi Puzzle · Naze Nani Honey? · NG Boy x Paradise · Pingu · Rento · Miyawaki Yukino · Satsuki Mikiko
Tweaked: 2009.12.23


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NTT DoCoMo and Tata launch new GSM brand in India
NTT DoCoMo, Japan's largest mobile carrier, announced the unveiling of a new brand in India, established with the purpose of offering GSM services across the country.
Created in collaboration with Tata Teleservices Limited (TTSL), the new brand is called Tata DoCoMo.
It will launch its services sometime later this month, first in southern India. By the end of 2009, Tata DoCoMo intends to provide services nationwide.
Details about the phones and data plans that the new brand will offer are not known. However, since the phones are GSM, they'll surely be different than the devices currently offered by TTSL via its CDMA brand Tata Indicom.
As of 2008, NTT DoCoMo owns 26% of Tata Teleservices. The Japanese company said it would "bring to India the various products and services that we offer in Japan – such as i-mode, LBS and mobile payment."
Even more, DoCoMo will work with Tata "on future technologies like 3G and Long-Term Evolution (LTE)."
Via Press release and Press release (PDF link)


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