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Trip to England
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Okay, you just jogged my memory a little, Astor. Now that I think about it, it was the Godiva festival that I was at. Not sure why I thought it was a County fair, unless somebody at one time tried to make a slight camparison for me. But it was definitely better than any County fair from my experience. And that probably explains were I first heard about or maybe even seen Lady Godiva. Because I could of swore I saw a woman, back then, dressed in a tight spandex suit, flesh colored, riding around on a white horse at that festival. Or maybe that was just my six year old mine hallucinating, from a caffeine high I got from all the tea I drank that day.
Hey! The public nudity of Lady Godgifu is a matter of no small insignificance to the folk of England. We don't take too kindly to that sort of mockery.
On a similar note, I'd like to visit Tadcaster as well.
It grieves me to say it, coming from the other side of the
as I do, but the East Midlands and Yorkshire have some of the best beer on tap. Of the breweries that are (probably) large enough to export, but whose beer you may not have tried, Castle Rock springs to mind. Especially their 'Screech Owl' IPA:
I'm no great shakes when it comes to London, although I'm actually going down there myself for a few weeks in September, but if you can you may want to set aside some time to visit the 'provinces', Oxford and Cambridge have already been mentioned, but York and Durham on the east coast and Liverpool on the west are all well worth a visit, and Edinburgh too (you may catch some of the festival there, as well). There should be relatively fast rail links to all of those (though Durham may require a change at York). Then again, I suppose you're unlikely to exhaust London in the space of a month, so exploring other parts of the country may be spreading yourself too thinly.
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I 'gin to be a-weary of the sun,
And wish the estate o' the world were now undone.
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Now here's a great idea … Grannies, Inc., a company where you can order knitwear knit by none other than real British grannies. Brilliant!
I almost couldn't believe Grannies, Inc. existed, but it's totally legit. If you don't have a British granny of your own who can knit, just hire one! It doesn't matter where you are in the world, or what you want knitted — the site has some standard items like hats, scarfs, and mitts, but if you want your hired granny to knit you a pink jumper with purple sheep, she can most likely do it for you. The standard items are all knit in 100% merino wool spun in Devon, but if you're allergic to wool? They'll happily make substitutions. You can let your granny know how you'd like your hat knit, and the prices are reasonable given the labor (and love!) that will go into each hat — for example, a medium purple beanie with white stripes will cost £34 (roughly U.S. $54.75). They don't even charge extra for moss stitch!
What I really loved about the service is that you can choose the granny you want knitting for you. I wondered if all the knitters had to be grandmothers, but it looks like some of the knitters aren't technically grannies … just women who love to knit. What a great concept on so many levels. The concept supports the local economy, it keeps women working and producing a product that's highly valued, and it's preserving a handcraft. Love it!
Were I not a rabid knitter myself, I'd put in an order. Hey, maybe I will considering I have six pairs of mittens to knit by Christmas! Has anyone here tried them or would be tempted to try? Let me know in the comments!

subset: commoncrawl


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Playground safety usually focuses on equipment that is potentially dangerous, inadequate play surfacing, or general design issues.
But what about germs and viruses on the playground? Kids, of course, are notorious for such sanitary practices as putting their fingers in their mouths, wiping their noses with the back of their hands and smearing those secretions on a nearby surface.
According to a pamphlet on infection control from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation,
germs (bacteria and viruses) are spread three ways: by contact, by droplet transmission and/or airborne transmission. Droplets, think sneezes, can spread three feet through the air and can land in another person's eyes, nose
or mouth.
University of Arizona professor Chuck Gerba, notes that viruses that cause diarrhea can survive up to a month on surfaces, and MRSA bacteria can also be transmitted this way.
The Centers for Disease Control advises that keeping one's hands clean is one of the best ways to keep from getting sick and spreading illnesses. Scrubbing surfaces with soap and water removes most germs, but it takes a disinfectant cleaner to kills germs.
Now picture the multitude of playgrounds at various fast food establishments. Now picture kids sliding and playing on equipment, some still eating, and you have quite a good breeding ground for bacteria and germs.
Enter Erin Carr-Jordan, a crusading 36-year-old mom and developmental psychologist from Chandler, Ariz. The local media, and now the broader media, reports she's been visiting and videotaping more than 50 fast food-type playgrounds in Arizona, California, New Mexico and Colorado. She has been swabbing the various playground equipment and sending the samples to labs for microbial testing. The swabs reportedly have contained 13 types of potentially harmful bacteria.
Public health departments inspect restaurants, including fast food establishments, but do now inspect their playgrounds for food safety. In fact, a restaurant inspector cannot cite a restaurant for a dirty playground. Erin Carr-Jordan would like to see that law changed, making play areas at fast food restaurants undergo the same rigorous health inspections as their kitchens.
It's reported that Chick-fil-A has a regular cleaning schedule for their play areas, that Chuck E. Cheese's has eliminated ball pits and requires all play equipment be cleaned with sanitizers. Also, both companies have hand sanitizers available at the play areas.
McDonald's released a statement that they "have stringent daily and weekly Playplace sanitation procedures in place… (and) pay special attention to handrails, stair treads, the slide entrance and exit, the inside of domes, entry portholes, and other areas that are touched frequently and become soiled quickly."
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Copyright © 2016 Landscape Communications Inc.


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Other SEM Tools and How WordStream Compares
With reporting, bid management, finding new keywords, analysis, tracking and more, search engine marketing can seem overwhelmingly complicated. The good news is that with technology and smart software, there are numerous products that can aid with your SEM management. This page explains tools in some detail to help you to better understand your options.
Keyword generating tools
Examples: Efficient PPC, Keyword Discovery, Google's Keyword Suggestion Tool, Speed PPC
Keyword generating tools are programs that examine your current keyword list or business category and suggest keywords for your campaigns. Instead of brainstorming all the keywords you should be bidding on, the idea here is that you give them a few keywords and these tools generate keywords for you. They grow your keyword list very quickly and without much effort from you, the marketer.
These tools can be divided into two categories based on where they find their data. Some, such as Efficient PPC and Speed PPC, rely on dictionaries, synonyms and reordering techniques. Others, such as Google's free Keyword Suggestion Tool and Keyword Discovery, examine your current keyword list and overall search popularity, and return the most popular searches that relate to the keywords you gave them. Though the latter category is a step ahead of the first because they give you actual searches instead of simulated, computer-generated keywords, the fact remains that these keywords are not necessarily relevant to your business. Though a word may be a synonym of a keyword, it doesn't always follow that the synonym is relevant to your website and should be added to your search campaign. Since relevance plays a large role in Quality Score evaluation, having a keyword campaign full of irrelevant keywords can be quite detrimental. Also, you probably have a general keyword list that looks similar to that of your competitor, so these tools return the same list to both of you, increasing competition for the already popular same words and phrases.
WordStream's Keyword Discovery Tool, on the other hand, returns actual keywords that brought people to your specific website, so they're much more likely to be relevant, and this information belongs only to you, bringing you a step ahead of your competitors. Instead of filling your campaigns with the most popular searches, WordStream allows you to evaluate the long tail of search, continuously adding specific, less common keywords that landed people on your website. The long tail is where the majority of searches happen, and because they're more specific, they tend to have higher conversion rates.
bid management tools
Examples: Atlas Search, DART, Mediaplex, PPC Max Bid, SearchRev
Bid Management is easy from inside WordStream, but some products go into deeper detail; you may find it helpful to use information gained from a bid tool while managing your campaigns with WordStream. If your Google AdWords account is active enough (at least 200 conversions in days), you can enable Google's free Conversion Optimizer. In general, bid management tools are considered a compliment to our software. With suggested keyword segmentation for the best optimization, workflow prioritization, keyword relevance ranking, keyword discovery, all of which and more are part of the WordStream software, a bid management tool will most likely only help improve Quality Score.
By using WordStream to increase your Quality Score and optimize your campaign organization, obtaining good position with low bid amounts will follow. As a result, you may not feel the need for complex bid manipulation. For the best results, WordStream suggests managing bids on the keyword group level.
PPC reporting tools
Examples: SEO Count, KeywordMax, PivotLink
Reporting is a crucial aspect of search engine marketing. It's important to say on top of keyword relevance and popularity, bid results, overall performance and more. However, the question remains--after learning from reports and analysis, what comes next? WordStream takes it a step further by not only evaluating different aspects of your campaign, but also suggesting the next courses of action. This ensures your time is spent as efficiently as possible.
The Workflow Tab serves to direct your priorities, constantly evaluating keyword and keyword groups by popularity so you can start with the most important ones. You have the ability to set your own rules for group size, so you'll be alerted when the group size is larger than your preference and when you don't yet have a Google AdWords Ad Group associated with it. Different views are available so you decide how you want to evaluate priorities: by popularity, number of keywords, or number of visits. Select the keyword group, WordStream will analyze your keyword and then suggest how to organize the group for the highest relevance and best performance.
SEM analytics tools
Examples: HBX, Marin Software, SearchForce, Omniture's SearchCenter
With analytics tools, you may find yourself in the same situation as outlined above with reporting tools--once you have your results, what do you do with them? WordStream not only tells you what's wrong, such as a keyword group is too large, but it tells you how to fix it, in this case by suggesting the best keyword segments within that group. Once a group gets too large and holds lots of keywords, it's less likely for the group to be relevant, one of the factors in ranking Quality Score, so WordStream evaluates the group and indicates how it should be divided.
Though it's suggested, of course you don't always have to take WordStream's advice on how to segment your keywords. If you don't agree with one of the suggestions, simply hit "Reject" and WordStream will evaluate the ten best ways to optimize keywords aside from the one rejected.
Likewise, if you find it doesn't work after all, or you "Reject" by accident, simply 'Reset Suggested Segmentations" to return to the original proposals.
wordstream: all you really need
WordStream continuously updates your account with new, relevant keywords, ranks your keywords and keyword groups by popularity, suggests ad creative based on your keyword group, has an API with Google AdWords so changes, be they bid amounts or group segmentations, flow into your AdWords account, analyzes your reports and suggests workflow prioritization and organization, and more. What else do you need for your PPC campaign? Take the Free Trial and see all that WordStream has to offer.


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Drop-In Times
Beginning September 22, 2014, the Counseling & Career Services Department will be offering drop in hours for you! Drop in will be available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10am to 11am in Edison Hall 100. You can drop in and see a counselor for 15 minutes for quick questions about
Depending on the nature of your issue, it may be determined during drop in, that you need more time with a counselor and you will be encouraged to schedule a follow up appointment so that you can STAY CONNECTED! If you need to see a counselor for personal issues, please make an appointment by calling 732.906.2546.


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Friends and family are holding a remembrance service in Greenbrier to mark the 10-year anniversary of the death of a 13-year-old girl who was abducted and killed by a man she met online.
Kacie Woody was kidnapped Dec. 4, 2002, and was found dead a day later. Authorities say 47-year-old David Fuller killed Kacie and then himself inside a storage unit in Conway.
The Log Cabin Democrat reports (http://is.gd/WDI8DY ) a memorial service is planned for 6:30 p.m. Monday at Greenbrier High School.
Authorities say Fuller posed as a teenage boy in a Christian chat room.
Kacie's father, Rick Woody, is a police officer in Greenbrier. Since his daughter's death he's been working to increase public awareness of Internet predators. In 2004, Woody received a community leadership award for his efforts.
Information from: Log Cabin Democrat, http://www.thecabin.net
Location, ST | website.com


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PTOKHEIA (or Ptocheia) was the spirit (daimona) of beggary.
She was a companion of Penia (Poverty) and Amekhania (Want of Resource). Her opposite numbers were Ploutos (Wealth) and Euthenia (Prosperity).
Nowhere stated (she is called the sister of Penia)
Aristophanes, Plutus 549 ff (trans. O'Neill) (Greek comedy C5th to 4th B.C.) :
"Penia: It's not my life that you describe; you are attacking the existence beggars lead.
Khremylos: Is Ptokheia (Beggary) not Penia's (Poverty's) sister?
Penia: Thrasyboulos and Dionysios are one and the same according to you. No, my life is not like that and never will be. The beggar, whom you have depicted to us, never possesses anything."


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Monday, March 18
For access to this article please sign in or subscribe.
A woman reported a man hit her parked vehicle near 1 Mile Lutak Road. Police responded and initiated a case.
A man requested extra patrols on Deishu Drive after reporting possible theft of fuel from a tank.
An anonymous caller...


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We have been examining the benefits of allowing children to assist with the preparation of the family meals. Another reason is it is extremely easy to transform the kitchen into a learning laboratory while spending quality time with your children as you cook together.
As you teach your children how to crack eggs, stir sauce and/or measure ingredients, you are also teaching/reinforcing language, mathematics and science skills. Basic math skills (more or less), sequencing skills (what goes first, second, next, … last?), and fractions (1/4 teaspoon of salt, 2/3 cup of milk) are just a few examples of how math skills can be reinforced.
Reading comprehension can improve as children read recipes, especially if they have to do one thing while another is happening (preheat oven while mixing batter) or something has to be thawed or chilled for a while before the next step of the recipe can be completed. What kind of utensil must be used for cooking and whether or not it needs to be greased are both essential pieces of information which need to be gleaned from the recipe in order to guarantee a successful venture.
Science principles can be explored in many ways: liquids giving off gases as they are boiling; change in the consistency of butter when it is melted; melding of ingredients while fudge is being made; how flavors come together when soup is made even as the individual items remain separate, etc. Ask your children if this reminds them of anything they have studied in school (rock formation, for example).
Why not give these lab ideas a try as you and your kids experiment on this recipe for mini s'mores pies?
- 6 mini graham cracker pie crusts
- ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips, divided
- ¾ cup mini marshmallows
- Preheat oven to 325ᵒ F.
- Place pie crusts on baking sheet.
- Divide ¼ cup chocolate chips between pie crusts,
- Sprinkle marshmallows over chocolate chips.
- Top with remaining chocolate chips.
- Bake 3 – 5 minutes or until marshmallows are light golden brown. (Makes 6 servings)


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How to Be a Frugal Gardener
Gardening can be a very relaxing hobby, but not if you're maxing out your credit card every time you visit the store for supplies. From tools to fertilizer, there are many things on a gardener's checklist. However, you don't have to spend a fortune on lawn and garden maintenance if you consider the following advice. Below, we have compiled 33 tips on how to become a frugal gardener.
- Harvest Rain Water – Using containers to collect rainwater is a great way to quench a lawn's thirst without driving up your water bill. Rainwater is also chemical-free, which is an added bonus.
- Water at Night – Watering your lawn and garden during the coolest hours will ensure that the soil absorbs most of the water before it evaporates. Essentially, that will stretch your water further and reduce your monthly water bill.
- Grow Plants From Cuttings – Many plants can be spliced and multiplied. Conduct some research to see if any of your plants can produce cuttings for new plants rather than spending money on new plants.
- Invest in Perennials – Perennials may cost more than annuals, but they will reappear the following year. Think of it as a good investment.
- Collect Seeds From Your Garden – Rather than purchasing seeds, you can harvest them from the plants already growing in your garden.
- Research Before Planting – Research can save you a lot of money. For example, planting something during the wrong time of year or in the wrong area can result in quickly dying plants. Prepare correctly and you will avoid these mistakes.
- Join a "Plant Swap" – If you know other gardening enthusiasts, you should begin trading plants, seeds and cuttings. It is a cheap way to experiment with new plants.
- Use Free, Unorthodox Planters – Look around you, as almost any container can be a planter. Some people use old tires and boots, but you may have something a little more glamorous in mind. The possibilities are endless.
- Buy Off-Season – Just like clothes, plants are easier on your credit card account at the end of the season. If you purchase perennials, don't worry about the season ending, as you will just get a head start on the next season that the plant returns.
- Invest in Good Tools – When you are in a frugal state of mind, it may be hard to spend a lot of money on anything. However, you shouldn't skimp on the gardening tools, as a good set of tools will last you a lifetime. In the long run, you will have saved an exorbitant amount of money.
- Reuse Your Grass Clippings – Don't be tempted to bag up those grass clippings, as leaving them on the lawn is good fertilizer. Not only does it contain vital nutrients that reabsorb into the soil, grass is 70% water.
- Utilize Vinegar – Vinegar is a cheap solution for many household dilemmas and the garden is no exception. From killing weeds to keeping cats away, vinegar is a natural alternative with multiple uses.
- Grow From Seeds – Rather than purchasing plants that are ready to be put in the ground, start with a seed. It is much cheaper and will give you more satisfaction when you see that first sprout.
- Grow Useful Plants – Try growing plants that "give back". For example, fruits and vegetables can be eaten, which reduces your grocery bill. Also, certain plants and flowers can attract the right kind of insects to your garden.
- Start a Compost Pile – By recycling your yard's waste, you will have a free, endless source of nutrients for your soil.
- Seek Free Manure For Fertilizing – Many farmers would be happy to let you take some manure off their hands. Should you live near the country, ask around for places to obtain this fertilizer at no cost.
- Utilize Your Leftovers – Yard waste isn't the only material you should be putting in your compost heap. Leftover scraps from the table, such as vegetables, are great for fertilizing. Avoid using meat, however, as that will attract stray animals that may dig up your garden.
- Use Natural Pest Control – There are many natural, free alternatives to commercial pesticides. Vinegar, dishwashing soap, and ground eggshells are just a few options.
- Save Rocks For Later Use – Rocks and concrete can always be used for landscaping purposes, so keep any that you come across.
- Ask Friends For Root Cuttings – If you find yourself admiring a friend's plant, politely ask if you can have a cutting. Most gardeners will be flattered by the request.
- Seek an Expert's Advice – Don't hesitate in asking someone questions if they are an experienced gardener. Most hobbyists love the chance to talk about their passion and it's a free source of information for you.
- Plant Marigolds – Marigolds are not only beautiful, they attract predators which kill aphids. Aphids, also known as plant lice, are deadly for your garden.
- Grow Vertically to Save Space – The use of fences and trellises to grow plants vertically will make more room for your garden. Maximizing your garden space is a frugal endeavor.
- Do Everything Yourself – Mowing your yard and trimming your hedges may be a pain, but you should avoid paying anyone else to do it.
- Kill Weeds With Boiling Water – If you have weeds growing up through the cracks of your sidewalk and driveway, forget about buying weed killer. Boiling water poured over those cracks will do the trick for free. Also, it is better for the environment than chemicals.
- Buy Used Tools at Auctions – It is essential that you purchase quality tools for your gardening. However, you avoid retail prices on eBay or at local auctions.
- Peruse Garage Sales in Established Communities – Established communities often have older residents who enjoy gardening. Look to these neighborhoods for garage sales that offer gardening equipment.
- Rent, Don't Buy, Large Equipment – Unless you are living on a farm, you won't need large equipment to maintain a garden. Renting a power tool is much cheaper than buying one, particularly if you only use said item once a season.
- Be Patient – You won't grow the landscape of your dreams overnight, so don't get ahead of yourself. Ready-to-plant flowers and trees are tempting, but far from frugal.
- Utilize Salt For Landscaping – Like vinegar and boiling water, salt is a natural weed killer. In fact, salting the ground will ensure that nothing grows in that place, so use it wisely!
- Grow Native Plants – Plants that are native to your area will be able to handle your soil and climate. The longevity of your plants is important, as replacing them will cost more money and time.
- Recycle Coffee Grounds – Never throw your coffee grounds in the trash, as they can be sprinkled onto your lawn as fertilizer. Also, you can put the grinds in your compost heap to increase its nitrogen levels.
- Plant Fake Flowers – Purists may scoff at this idea, but there are many fake flowers that appear quite genuine. They never have to be replaced and don't require sunshine and water.
Gardening is one of the most popular American hobbies, but it doesn't have to be an expensive one. If you look at the pastime in a simplistic way, you merely need tools, seeds and water. Any other supplies, such as fertilizer and weed killer, can be obtained naturally for free. Also, you should conduct research online and at the local library so you know what to plant and when. With a little knowledge and a conservative attitude, gardening can be a relaxing, inexpensive way to spend an afternoon, rather than an expensive way to spend your money.
Posted:October 17th, 2007 in Gardening No Comments
The Ten Best "Green Cars" for the Price
If you actually heed John Edwards' suggestion to give up your SUV, you probably won't look for the least expensive green car on the market. SUV prices range anywhere from $16,005 for the 2007 Chevrolet HHR to $107,500 for the 2007 Mercedes-Benz G-Class. If you have the budget to afford any car in that range, then you won't flinch when faced with the $19,692 – $23,220 price tag for the world's number one selling hybrid car, the Toyota Prius. Nor will you hesitate to dig until you find the price of the fastest green car to date, the Dodge Viper SRT10 Roadster that runs on E85, a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline.
Unfortunately, prices remain high across the board for any environmentally friendly car. The least expensive green car currently on the American market is the 2007 Hyundai Accent GLS 4-Door with a price tag that carries a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $12,925. But, according to Yahoo's "Top 100 Cars by Green Rating," the Hyundai comes in at number 22 with a green rating of 75. This car is gasoline-powered, as are all the cars listed below (which means your gas reward cards will still earn points). This screening shows that a frugalist may have to bite the bullet and spend more than $18,000 for a hybrid.
Until you're ready for that financial trauma, you can assuage your environmental guilt with the following ten gasoline-powered yet "green" vehicles that are all priced under $19,000. The following list is offered in order from least to most expensive based upon Yahoo's MSRP. Information about engines, horsepower, torque, mph in city and on the highway, and fuel tank capacity and range are all included with each vehicle.
1. 2007 Kia Rio SX (MSRP $13,495)
Although the Rio shares its platform with the Hyundai Accent, it feels sportier, thanks to subtle chassis tweaks. Other additions include a new alloy wheels design, new shift knobs for the manual and automatic transmissions, and an illuminated ignition surround. The Kia Rio SX (Manual) was last redesigned in 2006; no information is currently available on upcoming changes. For a bare-bones car with a low price, it's surprisingly roomy, refined, and good-looking front-engine, front-drive, 4-door, 5-passenger sedan. The Kia Rio SX ranks at twenty-one on the Yahoo 100 list, with a green rating of 75.
- Engine: Standard 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve inline-4
- Horsepower: 110 @ 6000 RPM
- Torque (lb-ft): 107 @ 4500 RPM
- City (mpg): 32
- Hwy (mgp): 35
- Fuel-Tank Capacity/Range: 11.9 gal/381 mi
2. 2007 Toyota Yaris S (MSRP $13,525)
All new to the U.S. in 2007, the front-engine, front-drive; 4-door, 5-passenger sedan Yaris is Toyota's cheapest machine in Toyota's green lineup. The gasoline-powered Yaris S sedan, unlike the three-door Yaris hatchback and the four-door Yaris sedan, gets extra body cladding, bigger 15-inch wheels and a CD stereo with an auxiliary input jack. The 5-speed manual overdrive is standard, with an optional 4-speed automatic overdrive. This car ranks at seven out of 100 at Yahoo with a green rating of 77.
- Engine: Standard 1.5-liter DOHC 16-valve inline-4 (Toyota's latest VVT-i technology)
- Horsepower: 106 @ 6000 RPM
- Torque (lb-ft): 103 @ 4200 RPM
- City (mpg): 27
- Hwy (mgp): 34 – 37
- Fuel-Tank Capacity/Range: 11.1 gal/377 mi
3. 2007 Kia Rio5 SX (MSRP $13,750)
This Hyundai Accent clone is the smallest of Kias offered on the market this year. You'll find hatchback utility in this front-engine, front-drive, 5-door, 5-passenger sedan. The Rio5
is among the lowest priced vehicles sold in the U.S., but Kia strives to offer a full-feature vehicle with a stylish appearance. The Kia Rio5 SX ranks fifteenth out of 100 on the Yahoo list, with a green rating of 75.
- Engine: Standard 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve inline-4
- Horsepower: 110 @ 6000 RPM
- Torque (lb-ft): 107 @ 4500 RPM
- City (mpg): 32
- Hwy (mgp): 35
- Fuel-Tank Capacity/Range: 11.9 gal/381 mi
4. 2007 Honda Fit Sport 5-Spd MT (MSRP $15,170)
New to the U.S. market, the front-engine, front-drive; 5-door, 5-passenger Fit wagon leads a growing platoon of new subcompacts intended to keep soaring fuel prices at bay. The gasoline-powered Fit blends agility with a roomy, upscale interior and clever cargo versatility. The Fit is a popular model in Japan and Europe, where it is sold as the Honda Jazz. The 5-speed manual overdrive is standard, with the 5-speed automatic overdrive as an option. The Honda Fit Sport 5-Spd MT ranks fourteenth out of 100 on the Yahoo list, with a green rating of 76.
- Engine: Standard 1.5-liter SOHC 16-valve inline-4
- Horsepower: 109 @ 5800 RPM
- Torque (lb-ft): 105 @ 4800 RPM
- City (mpg): 33
- Hwy (mgp): 38
- Fuel-Tank Capacity/Range: 10.8 gal/356 mi
5. 2007 Toyota Corolla LE (MSRP $15,515)
Toyota has successfully and consistently sold the Corolla in the U.S. since 1969, and this car remains one of the most popular Toyota vehicles. Although not fast or extremely exciting to drive, it is very predictable. Expect a redesign for 2008. This 2007 front-engine, front-drive, 4-door, 5-passenger sedan comes with a 5-speed manual overdrive with optional 4-speed automatic overdrive. The gasoline-powered Toyota Corolla LE ranks thirteenth on the Yahoo 100 list, with a green rating of 76.
- Engine: Standard 1.8-liter DOHC 16-valve inline-4
- Horsepower: 126 @ 6000 RPM
- Torque (lb-ft): 122 @ 4200 RPM
- City (mpg): 32
- Hwy (mgp): 41
- Fuel-Tank Capacity/Range: 13.2 gal/422 mi
6. 2007 Honda Civic Sedan DX 5-Spd AT (MSRP $15,810)
The eighth generation of this perennial bestseller was introduced last year, but the cost-cutting that was apparent in the most recent Civics is nowhere to be seen in the new offerings. The Honda Civic DX AT is a gasoline-powered, front-engine, front-drive; 4-door, 5-passenger sedan. The 5-speed automatic overdrive is standard in the AT sedan, but no manual overdrive is available. The Honda Civic Sedan DX 5-Spd AT rates sixteenth out of 100 on the Yahoo list, with a green rating of 75.
- Engine: Standard 1.8-liter SOHC 16-valve inline-4
- Horsepower: 140 @ 6300 RPM
- Torque (lb-ft): 128 @ 4300 RPM
- City (mpg): 30
- Hwy (mgp): 40
- Fuel-Tank Capacity/Range: 13.2 gal/396 mi
7. 2007 Kia Spectra SX (MSRP $15,995)
Loaded with features, the gasoline-powered Kia Spectra SX received new front fascia styling with integrated front spoiler this year, including a revised grille, headlights, bumper and new standard 16-inch alloy wheels. Additionally, the Spectra doesn't feel like a compact economy car. The SX comes with 5-speed manual overdrive, but now has a new 4-speed automatic transmission available as an option. The SX is roomy with great road manners for a front-engine, front-drive, 4-door, 5-passenger sedan. The Kia Spectra SX ranks twentieth out of 100 on the Yahoo 100 list, with a green rating of 75.
- Engine: Standard 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline-4
- Horsepower: 138 @ 6000 RPM
- Torque (lb-ft): 136 @ 4500 RPM
- City (mpg): 25
- Hwy (mgp): 33
- Fuel-Tank Capacity/Range: 14.0 gal/350 mi
8. 2007 Ford Focus 5-Door Hatchback SES (MSRP $16,775)
Ford offers a combination of a formal station wagon and a five-door hatchback with this front-engine, front-drive, 5-passenger sedan. The 2007 gasoline-powered Ford Focus 5-door hatchback is a carryover from 2006. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. This car ranks five out of 100 at Yahoo with a green rating of 77.
- Engine: Standard 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline-4
- Horsepower: 136 @ 6000 RPM
- Torque (lb-ft): 136 @ 4250 RPM
- City (mpg): 27
- Hwy (mgp): 37
- Fuel-Tank Capacity/Range: 14.0 gal/378 mi
9. 2007 Hyundai Elantra Limited (MSRP $16,895)
The fourth-generation gasoline-powered Elantra follows Hyundai's success formula in its all-new 2007 version. Even base models come with standard ABS, power mirrors, power windows, and six airbags. The latest front-engine, front-drive; 4-door, 5-passenger sedan Elantra Limited is bigger than the previous edition, and it seats four adults comfortably. The Hyundai Elantra Limited ranks eleventh on the Yahoo 100 list, with a green rating of 76.
- Engine: Standard 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline-4
- Horsepower: 138 @ 6000 RPM
- Torque (lb-ft): 136 @ 4600 RPM
- City (mpg): 28
- Hwy (mgp): 36
- Fuel-Tank Capacity/Range: 14.0 gal/392 mi
10. 2007 MINI Cooper HT (MSRP $18,050)
The new gasoline-powered MINI for 2007 is remarkably similar to the previous model. The major differences in the 2007 model are the new 2.36" longer body that was changed to meet European Union pedestrian impact standards, a steering system that is now electrically assisted, and a sports suspension with up-rated springs, dampers and anti-roll bars available for any model. You'll also see new sheet metal, chassis, and safety equipment. Interior space is increased everywhere except for rear seat passengers. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The MINI Cooper HT ranks tenth out of 100 on the Yahoo list, with a green rating of 76.
- Engine: Standard 1.6L 118 hp I4 (utilizes technology from parent BMW)
- Horsepower: 118 @ 6000 RPM
- Torque (lb-ft): 114 @ 4250 RPM
- City (mpg): 32
- Hwy (mgp): 40
- Fuel-Tank Capacity/Range: 13.2 gal/356 mi
Yahoo doesn't carry the last word on green vehicles, as other ratings exist that will show that the Prius is, by far, the best environmentally-friendly car for the price. This vehicle combines an electric motor with a powerful engine to create a car that runs like any other conventional vehicle. Yet, you can see returns down the road with its exceptional fuel efficiency.
Other vehicles, like the Volkswagen Touran, provide green efficiency to European countries, but not to U.S. citizens. Many Volkswagen Tourans have a fuel cell drive system that do not create exhaust emissions. While a bit pricier than the cars shown in the list above, the price tag for this car may be just a bit more than the Prius if it were sold in America. As with any supply-demand economic situation, the best green cars cost more because there are fewer in existence. As demand rises, the price may come down, but don't expect that situation to occur within the next year or two.
Posted:October 10th, 2007 in Green Transportation No Comments
57 Creative Ideas to Save Money As a Pet Owner
Whether you are an extravagant pet owner or not, responsibly raising an animal involves years of expenses. Granted, your child's goldfish may only involve weeks of expenses, but you have to cough up some dough to care for any kind of animal. Many people don't consider these costs before they commit to pet ownership. From food to regular veterinarian visits, most domestic animals require constant maintenance. Rather than put you off owning a pet altogether, we would like to offer you 57 creative ways to save money as a pet owner.
Acquiring a Pet
- Avoid "Puppy Mills" – Unless you want a show dog, buying a dog based on its exclusive pedigree is needlessly expensive. Animal activists even argue that breeding dogs is unethical. Besides, mutts often are the most lovable dogs.
- "Free To Good Home" – Many people find themselves with too many puppies or kittens after their pet has a litter. Ask friends or family in this situation for an animal and they will often give it to you for free. Also, you may happen upon a "free to good home" sign or classified ad in your travels.
- Take In a Stray – This is a good way to acquire a free animal, provided you are sure he/she is a stray and not someone's lost pet.
- Contact a Rescue Group – There are many animal rescue groups that are looking for good homes to place animals with. If you are keen on having a specific breed, this is the more humane way of acquiring a pedigreed cat or dog.
- Work at a Pet Store – Working at a pet store will not only get you a company discount on pet products, you may be able to get a free or inexpensive pet through your connections.
- Limit Yourself – Can you really afford a pack of dogs or aquarium full of fish? Limit yourself on how many animals you acquire, as the costs will mount very quickly.
- Check the Local Paper – Free and inexpensive pets are often listed in the classified section of your local paper.
- Use Craigslist – Craigslist.org is a classified Web site that is free to the public. You can find almost anything on Craigslist, including pet advertisements. Also, you could post your own ad, expressing your desire for a free or inexpensive pet.
- Go to the Shelter – There are many animals at your local animal shelter who need good homes. The prices are fair and, if you are going to a shelter that euthanizes animals, you will be saving a life.
- Call Dibs On an Unborn Animal – If you know someone who has a pregnant animal or an animal that may become pregnant in the future, call dibs on one of its offspring. This may not yield you immediate results, but may secure you a free or inexpensive pet in the future.
- Don't Tempt Thieves – Like cars, there are certain types of animals that are popular among thieves. Certain dog breeds, in particular, can fetch a high price for dognappers. Try not to obtain animals that people are looking to steal. If you already have one that is highly coveted, keep it out of public view.
- Buy a Low-Maintenance Pet – You don't always have to get a dog or a cat for companionship. Rodents, for example, are easy pets to care for and relatively inexpensive in the long run.
- Get a Pet That Will Work For You – Whether it's a backyard guard dog or a grass-munching goat, you can save money by acquiring a pet that offers something in addition to companionship.
- Avoid Rare Animals – Not only are exotic pets expensive to purchase and sometimes illegal to own, they are often very costly to care for. From birds to dogs, it is always cheaper to own a common, domestic animal.
- Use a Rewards Card – There are credit cards and grocery store cards that will help you save money when buying food for your pets. When applying for a credit card, make sure it is one with a low interest rate.
- Compare Store Prices – You may find that a pet superstore offers better prices than your supermarket, or vice versa. Don't assume you are getting the best deal on food prices. Call around for price comparisons and keep your eye open for sales.
- Skip the Trendy, Expensive Foods – While you want to give your pet healthy foods and the occasional treat, he/she probably doesn't need anything from the frozen section of your local pet store.
- Don't Feed Your Pet Junk – On the flip side, the cheapest brand of food in the store could be the least healthy, leading to higher health care costs. Consult your veterinarian on what kind of frugal food is safe to purchase.
- Feed Your Pet Less – Is your pet eating more than the recommended amount? Only distribute as much as the packaging suggests. You will be saving in food costs and health care costs if your animal maintains a healthy weight.
- Use Coupons – Manufacturer and store coupons can save you a lot of money in the long run, particularly if you use them during double or triple coupon events.
- Buy In Bulk – You will always need food for your pet, so buying in bulk will not be a wasted investment. This could be a way to save a considerable amount of money. Check your local price club, such as Sam's Club or Costco.
- Don't Let Wet Food Spoil – If you are feeding your animal canned, wet food, feed them a little at a time and store the rest where it won't spoil.
- Don't Share Your Pet's Food – With other critters and insects, that is. Leaving your animal's food bowl where it can be picked at by strays or swarmed by ants is a surefire way to waste money.
- Keep Food Out Of the Rain – If your pet's food bowl is always outside, be sure to protect it from the rain.
- Grow Your Own Pet Food – While this will only work for certain animals, a vegetable garden can be cost-effective for the whole family (including your pet rabbit).
- Brush Your Pet's Teeth – This is a service provided by your veterinarian and/or groomer that you can do on your own for a fraction of the price. A toothbrush can be found at your local pet store.
- Clean Your Pet's Ears – Doing this on your own will save in grooming fees and in health care costs, as your animal will get fewer earaches.
- Trim Your Pet's Hair – If you have a long-haired pet that requires frequent haircuts, you can do this at home with a grooming kit that costs less than $100. Usually, this kit will pay for itself with one haircut. However, take your time and be careful, as you don't want to nick your pet's skin.
- Trim Your Pet's Nails – Rather than paying someone to do this, trim your animal's nails with a special tool from your local pet store. This may also save money in reducing household destruction by your pet's unruly claws.
- Wash Your Own Pet – Sure, it's a pain to do sometimes, but why would you pay someone else to do it? If you are the owner of a large dog, even investing in an outside dog bath will save money.
- Regularly Brush Your Pet's Coat – This is especially important for long-haired dogs. Regular brushing will help to maintain your animal's appearance without sending him/her to a groomer. This also cuts back on loose hair on your clothes and furniture, reducing the need for dry cleaning.
- Trim the Hair Short – Just like your lawn, you will have to trim your animal's hair less if it is cut short.
- Dilute Your Pet's Shampoo – To make your pet shampoo stretch further, pour half of one bottle into an empty bottle and top both of them off with water.
- Attend All Well Visits – Don't postpone your animal's regular visits to the veterinarian. Even if he/she is healthy and thriving, their check-ups will keep them that way.
- Don't Get Unnecessary Shots – Ask your veterinarian what your animal absolutely has to have shots for this year. Recommendations change all the time, so stay on top of it and make sure you aren't spending needless money.
- Make Sure Your Pet Exercises – You're not the only one who needs to get more cardio. A sedentary animal will experience more health problems, costing you more money (and heartbreak).
- Think About Medical Insurance – While your hermit crab won't benefit from it, some animals will be cheaper to maintain if they have an insurance policy. Some affordable plans will cover all routine visits and shots.
- Spay/Neuter Your Pet – Doing this will reduce your animal's chances of developing certain reproductive cancers. Also, he/she will be less likely to stray from home and get hurt.
- Find an Affordable Veterinarian – Some animal clinics will see your pet on a sliding scale, should you be under financial strain. Also, local universities with a veterinarian program may see patients for less money than a regular office.
- Find Inexpensive Shot Clinics – When it the time comes for your pet to get his/her shots, look for low-cost clinics to save money. Your veterinarian's office may host shot clinics a few times a year. Also, you can check with the Humane Society for information on shot clinics.
- Ask Your Veterinarian For Samples – Like any other doctor, your veterinarian receives samples from drug companies. Request free samples if your animal needs any kind of medication.
- Compare Pharmacy Prices – Don't assume that your pet's medication is going to be the same price at every pharmacy. If you are about to buy something expensive or if your pet is put on chronic medication, call around town and get the best deal.
- Don't Use Over-the-Counter Flea Products – Many inexpensive flea treatments for dogs and cats are actually quite toxic. Consult your veterinarian about your pet's flea problem, not your groomer or your local pet store. Though you may think you are saving money with such products, you are actually risking high medical bills or even your pet's life.
- Research Common Household Dangers – Do you know which household plants are toxic to your pet or which foods you should absolutely not feed your dog from the table? A little online research on a credible animal care site can save you a bundle in medical bills.
- Keep Your Pet Indoors – Outdoor animals tend to get into more accidents and contract more illnesses.
- Mail Order Medications – Monthly prescriptions, such as your dog's heartworm medication, can be purchased with a credit card through various mail order services. Research this service beforehand, however, and make sure the company you use is reputable.
Toys & Supplies
- Give Your Cat Something to Scratch – Doing this is cheaper than reupholstering your furniture. A few scratching posts will suffice, which you should place near the cat's food and next to the cat's bed.
- Recycle Your Children's Toys – Did your baby grow out of his/her teething rings (great for a puppy who is teething) or stuffed animals? There may be something in the collection that can be passed down to your playful pet.
- Use Household Items as Toys – Not just a cliche image, a ball of yarn is something that cats really do enjoy. That is one of many inexpensive things around the house that your pet can play with.
- Skip the Wardrobe – Does your pet really need to wear little sweaters and costumes? You may think the outfits look cute, but they are really a waste of money.
- Use Alternative Cat Litter – Refilling your cat's litter box can really add up, so try an alternative. From sand to wood pellets, some people have made the switch without kitty ever noticing. Do make sure that whatever you use is safe for your cat, however. If you're really ambitious, you could always toilet train your cat.
- Buy a Durable Leash – A leash endures a lot of wear and tear, so buy a heavy-duty one that is appropriate to your animal's size.
- Choose a Practical Collar – Your pet doesn't need a designer collar, rather one that is safe and long-lasting.
- Forgo the Fancy Tags – You will be issued a tag for your dog or cat when you get him/her licensed, so don't waste your money with some fancy, personalized tag service that is often advertised at the pet store.
- Make a Dog Bed – Buying a dog bed is unnecessary, as most indoor dogs are easily trained to sleep on the floor. However, a dog that prefers something soft can be given an old quilt or folded sheet to sleep on.
- Assemble Your Own Doghouse – If you are handy with wood projects, then assembling a pet shelter from scrap should be no problem and is much less expensive than commercial doghouses.
- Attend Garage Sales – You can find many pet accessories, particularly children's toys that your pet will love, at garage sales for cheap.
Owning a pet can be costly, though animals offer many emotional benefits. While we aren't suggesting that you deprive your pet of any comfort, there are many expenses you can forgo as a pet owner. By following some of the above advice, you can save money in areas you never knew possible.
Posted:October 2nd, 2007 in Family No Comments


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Lisa102 Model
Lee LossingPhotographer Male Largo, Florida, US
My Website: Check me out on Facebook.My MM URL: http://www.modelmayhem.com/leelossing
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About Me
I've been shooting models for about 9 years now. I would like to thank all of the models and photogs that have helped me in the past, and look forward to great experiences in the future. You'll get an idea of my style from my photos, however, the female form has been my favorite subject for as long as I can remember. If there is anything more beautiful, I have never seen it.
I doubt I will ever stop doing TFP work completely, although it has become less frequent. I enjoy photography too much, and if that ever went away, why would you continue? If I contact you about a shoot, be assured I am not trying to sell you something. I get paid for modeling portfolio work outside of MM. On rare occasions I do get a client who will pay us all For me however, photography is more of a creative outlet and I don't want it ever to be my main source of income. It keeps me from having to shoot things I don't want to and keeps me interested.
Unobtrusive escorts are always welcome.
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Need new website design
Started Feb 27, 2010 | Discussions thread
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Timzee • Contributing Member • Posts: 895
Need new website design
An associate of mine who does portrait and wedding photography wants a complete redesign of her website. If you've worked successfully with a web developer who is proficient at CSS (non Flash) and has some experience at producing photo related websites I would appreciate a recommendation.
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Now that we have been hitched, let's tie one on. More to the point, let's tie one race car on the trailer properly. In Part 2 we covered race car tie-downs on the trailer. The car should be tied with four straps, at least two of them being ratchet types. Virgil Brown of M&R explained that with only two tie-downs, one front and one rear, a car can shift its weight during an emergency maneuver. This occurrence can be severe enough to cause lasting damage to the roof of the tow vehicle as well as to the race car. So, four tie-downs are the order of the day.
But if you are young and dumb--as I once was--and only use two tie-downs, never use a come-along as a tie-down. Use it to get the car in place on the trailer if necessary. Then use a ratchet tie-down and a chain. The come-along is designed to pull a load. It's not designed for impact strength of the type felt during road jarring. I have seen the center spool collapse on these things. When that happens, a lot of things get loose.
I'm older and some say smarter now. I do understand my race car might be worth the cost of four ratchet tie-downs. The original M&R tie-downs have seen a lot of sun and weather. These new tie-downs make me feel better. The old ones will be used to strap down tool boxes, tires, and so on.
Speaking of tie-downs, the question becomes where and how they should be attached to the trailer. Initially I had placed M&R's D-rings at the front and rear of the trailer. They were arranged to pull the car parallel to the trailer. At the rear, my folding ramps sit on top of the tie-downs. This is not desirable. So, additional D-rings have been welded to the side of the trailer. This splayed out the attachments from the car, which I think is preferable to a straight back pull. Atthe front, I also welded additional D-rings to the trailer to splay out the attachments.
Our Superwinch S3500 has performed quite well for us. It has pulled more than one bent race car up on the trailer. I used the Superwinch mounting plate to make a plug-in attachment to the trailer. Easy on easy off--making secure storage no-brainer.
I really like the high-mounted lights on the tire rack. They never get knocked off there. To satisfy legal requirements, I have added lights to the rear fenders. Also, there are now reflector strips at the rear of the trailer.
I really like this trailer. With at least 400 pounds of tongue weight, it tows well. Modifieds need to be forward, while Street Stocks with more forward weight can be shifted to the rear a bit. There is one change I wish I'd made but never have. The fold-over ramps could have been 4 feet long instead of 3. I was cheap and didn't want to buy another length of purling. At times this would have made loading a low race car easier. All things considered, though, if I needed another open trailer, I would build another just like it. Contact Sleepy at sleepy.gomez @primedia.com.
1/4 x 4 x 4-in steel angle:1 piece @ 78 in2 pieces @ 16 ft
1/4 x 2 x 4-in steel channel:1 piece @ 70 in2 pieces @ 85 in
10-gauge x 1 1/2-in x 1 1/2-in square steel tubing:6 pieces @ 77 1/2 in 2 pieces @ 72 in2 pieces @ 71 1/2 in4 pieces @ 78 in2 pieces @ 12 in
1/8 x 2 x 2-in steel angle:4 pieces @ 16 in
0.065 x 8 x 2 1/2-in purling:4 pieces @ 16 ft2 pieces @ 72 in4 pieces @ 44 in1 piece @ 78 in


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Christine vs. The Car
Bang for the Buck - 18/20If you don't mind the complications of jealousy she'll harbor with any woman you date, you'll have a friend for life (though it may by cut short). Still, Arnie bought her for $250 in 1978 and she quickly began to help with her own restoration into a showpiece. There's hardly a better deal on the road.
Driving Experience - 20/20
Driving any car from the 1950s is a blast, but connecting this deeply on an emotional level is another matter. Freaky, sure. But respect what she's capable of and there won't be any problems. Plus once you trust each other, having her take over the driving can have its own rewards.
Overall Score - 82/100
If you mind your manners and don't cross her, Christine can be a great friend. She'll listen to you, make you feel great and defend you to the end. And in a more practical way, you won't have to bother carrying comprehensive or collision insurance on her since she mends all her blemishes. Even after being crushed into a cube, her spirit wouldn't die.
The CarMSRP: $8,813 (1971)
Engine: 460-ci, V8
MPG (city/highway): 10/12 (est)
Performance - 17/20
Big cars aren't usually great performers, but with a squirt of rage and adrenaline (or whatever was causing the chemical imbalance), it can outrun just about anything it's chasing and do even more amazing things. For example, you don't see many cars with the ability to leap into a house. As a female character learned the hard way, The Car can.
Exterior Design - 18/20
Thirty years ago, who knew high belt lines and low rooflines would be featured in some production cars? Despite its Lincoln origins, Barris' custom coincidentally resembles today's Chrysler 300 a little. And despite the lethality, it's a good-looking car. Too bad most folks never get a better look than when they're being run down by it.
Interior Design - 5/10
It's tough to really describe a place you're not allowed or only have a moment to relay what you see. Suffice it to say, inside The Car, it's dark and dreary. Unlike Christine, The Car doesn't give a damn whether you're thinking happy thoughts about it or not. It simply wants you extinguished. It's not the kind of cocoon you want to step inside, if you catch our drift.
Sound System/Goodies - 1/10
Amidst all the killing, there's really no way to hear the sound system over the big V8, the squealing tires, the screaming victims and the deafening horn blast that always announces impending death.
Bang for the Buck - 5/20
If you could trust The Car at all, it might be a better deal. Whereas you can ally with Christine, The Car is a single-player, single-purpose weapon of human destruction.
Driving Experience - 8/20
First, you'd have to wrangle it. Second, it would still refuse to drive into a cemetery or on any other hallowed ground. That could really make commuting difficult.
Overall Score - 54/100
The word "un-blow-upable" is thrown around a lot these days, but it doesn't apply to The Car. We've seen The Car take plenty of harsh abuse and come back for more, but total explosions have a way of sidelining it. Can it/did it/will it come back? Well, obviously. But being converted into confetti can't be good for its mood.
and the winner is…Controlling the kill power of either car is not easy, but at least Christine can be reasoned with and can even function as well as any other non-possessed vehicle. With her, it's more about you and her against the world. With The Car, it's simply against everybody, presumably including its keeper. If you're going through a divorce, take out a huge life insurance policy on your ex and make sure she gets The Car. Otherwise, the fury of Christine is all you'll ever need.
www.nadaguides.com - The Car
www.nadaguides.com - Christine
Have a question? Get it answered by AskMen's guyQ.


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You do not have to be a student to keep "sharp." Anyone of any age, of any path (student, professional, home maker, etc) can keep their mental gears grinding with an iPhone app like Brain Wars.
Created by the Japanese developer, Translimit, Brain Wars makes you think more seriously about your mental training by pitting you up against other real people from around the world. The challenges consists of puzzle, logic, memory and concentration games. Examples are, matching games, following the order of what bricks light up and math operations. Currently, the app offers 15 different games that may be chosen during the challenges. All the games use simple tap and swipe movements on your iPhone screen.
The game starts with you at Grade "Chicken" and a low rank. The more you play against people and win, both your Grade and rank will go up. Your Grade is similar to leveling in other games. As your Grade increases, the difficulty of the games and challengers will increase, as well. Your rank is placed on a leaderboard, where you can view everyone playing around you, and also the top players around the world.
When challenging a random person you are given a choice of three games. One of them will be selected, but you have the opportunity to choose it by spending five of your coins. It is unclear of what happens if your opponent also uses coins to choose a game. Does the app do a coin flip for which is chosen? Does it choose whichever one was paid for first? Between each game you and your opponent cannot talk to each other, but you can emote with options at the bottom of the screen. After each challenge completed, whether you win or lose, you lose a heart. Additional hearts can be purchased with coins, or you can watch the timer and wait; hearts do refill over time. Additional coins may be purchased with money.
As you progress in Brain Wars your profile shows a diagram of your strong suits. These are, speed, judgment, calculations, memory, observations and accuracy. When you view the profiles of others, you are able to view their diagrams, as well.
The game still needs some polishing. It was just recently released, and bug fixes are in the works. The biggest issue thus far is the syntax of some of the English text used in the app. The game did originate in Japan. It seems that better translations are in the works though.
The app is very fun all around. You get to challenge people around the world, "sharpen" your mind and you can invite friends to play against you via Facebook or Twitter. If you own an iPhone, it is free, so download it and give it a try.


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Are you trying to lose weight? Take a healthy lunch to work.
Here are reasons you should take a healthy lunch to work: save money, consume appropriate portion sizes, lose weight, follow daily menu plan and control the amount of sodium, fat and calories consumed.
Make a toasted turkey sandwich at home. Use 2 slices of 100% whole wheat bread, 2-3 ounces of sliced turkey, 1 slice of provolone cheese and 1 teaspoon of Mayo with Olive Oil or mustard. Omit the cheese if you are monitoring sodium, cholesterol and fat levels. If you like heat, add jalapeno slices to your sandwich. If you toast the bread, assemble the sandwich at work. Enjoy 1 cup (8 ounces) of 2% milk or green tea with your turkey sandwich. Also, include a delicious apple or juicy orange.
If you need help losing weight and planning your meals, contact a dietitian, personal trainer, fitness center or weight loss center in your area.
Healthy eating + daily exercise = Weight Loss. Get a physical from your doctor before starting a new exercise regimen. Also, surround yourself with positive people who will encourage you to lose weight.
Enjoy reading Happy Healthy News written by Yvette Collins, Pharm.D.
*Follow YvetteCollins,PharmD on twitter @yvettecollins1
If you would like to receive an email when a new article is written, click on the Subscribe button. The subscription is free.
©Yvette Collins, Pharm.D. All Rights Reserved. No part of this article may be reproduced without prior permission from the author. Partial reposting is permitted with a link back to the original article.


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Wit & Wisdom Series
Sat, Mar. 15, 2014 at 8pm
A whirlwind of passion, surprises, tricks, and disguises awaits you in Shakespeare's irresistible romantic comedy. A shipwrecked young woman falls in love with the local duke, who is in love with the local Countess, who is in love with the first woman she believes is a man, whose twin brother arrives to add even more chaos in this rollicking tale of mistaken identity and unrequited love!


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Thursday, February 7, 2008
I wouldn't let Henry get close to this new Prada bag because I am dithering about whether to keep it. What to do …. what to do ….
Previously, he was allowed to hang out with a Vuitton.
And he got to use a Gucci as a pillow.
34 Responses to "Post #400: A New Handbag Has Arrived"
ahaha, that is adorable. Such a life of luxury that dog lives!
I have to keep canine cousin it from seeing these. She will not be impressed with the fact that there's been no one-on-one between her and my marc jacobs.
wow wendy. big spender…
all those pics are adorable
^^I know, I know, I shouldn't have done the Prada. I have plenty of bags! It was just so beautiful. The nicest thing in the whole store. I lost my mind.
Hehe… ur dog is so cute!
Thank you Debbie. I would like to point out that while he likes to sit with handbags, he does not fit IN a handbag and has never been carried in a bag of any sort! Both my dogs are 16 lbs and are definitely not purse dogs. People always think Pekes are purse dogs for some reason.
that dog hangs out with better handbags than i do.
I agree with Jennine^^^ lol but aww Henry is so cute.
Having had a peke – I know how heavy those gals can get. My Lulu was about 10 kilos. I would need a shopping trolley. LOL
Love all the bags by the way !
I think you should keep it. Even if you don't need it, Henry looks too good with it.
google hates me. posted a comment here a while ago and it clearly showed… 'nyways…
Love the Prada bag, eventhough Henry is beautiful, the Prada stole my attention more… :-). Nice purchase, Wendy (or.. nice damage? hehe)
Must buy Prada bag immediately.
It's not for me…I just realized my dog deserves nicer handbags.
Well, he looks good with it. I agree with thea orange: maybe you should keep it. Why are you thinking you might not?
Love the bags. oh, and the dog is cute too.
Thea Orange, best rationale for a purchase ever.
ENC, I always get bad handbag guilt. They never fall apart/stop fitting like shoes/clothes so they tend to accumulate. And unlike jewelry, they're not that easy to switch around every day (not for me, anyway…I always end up leaving something urgent in yesterday's bag). So I always feel like I have too many bags that I'm not using enough. I don't know why that bothers me, when I'm fine with once-a-year dresses and shoes that I then own for a few decades. Those make perfect sense to me.
Henry is just like a husband. He has to hang around with the purse while decisions are being made.
Keep the purse.
When people behind me notice that I'm looking at pictures of dogs and handbags, I lose a fair amount of street cred.
I'm sorry, PAD. I know you were already in a very low percentile.
Love the redhead on the bag.
Oh God, I've photographed my cat with one of my bags. I'll have to tell my boyfriend it's actually a widespread thing.
Oh man…. I gotta love, love, LOVE the LV purse!
Now.. I must run home and take a picture of my cat with my lonely little Versace purse.. sniff..sniff.. I *SO* have purse envy right now! ha..ha.ha…
Haha, your dog is so cute! 🙂
Hang on, I completely failed to notice that this is post number 400 for you? Are you celebrating a milestone, or being facetious? Just wondering. Happy 400th!
I feel handbag guilt too: I just shove them in the closet when I get bored with them. After too many pile up, I tend to give them away or sell them. That makes me feel less guilty for about five seconds. As for switching, I'm far too lazy for that, so each handbag I buy must serve every possible purpose so as to prevent me having to switch. Except evening—then I dig out my mother's collection of vintage. In general, I have too many bags I'm not using, but I think bags create guilt scenarios by being far too wonderful and useful and expensive to just dispose of; we dare not, so into the closet they go.
I still think that new bag is worth keeping. It's got heirloom status written all over it.
Whether or not you choose to return the bag, keep those dogs, the cute little rascals.
I'll be quiet now, and let someone else speak.
Didn't you give one of the bags to the dogs to destroy? :))
Could you please go back to non-popup comments? Popups are jinxed. No matter what computer or browser I use they always crash the browser! I wish I could track down the person who invented popups and give him the Hugh Dispenser treatment :)))
your dog is sooooo precious and i want to raid your handbag closet!!!
gigi is awesome i have to say. you know that there's a very popular Spanish song that goes "Gigi el amoroso…" which means "The loving Gigi…" that is!
ENC, this is really #400, or so Blogger tells me. But Blogger is full of lies. I'm still suffering handbag guilt but I took the bag out tonight so I guess it is mine. I never give mine away or sell them! I just try to give them the occasional outing.
Olga, I'm sorry! I will do a post asking if other peeps are having that problem.
Kreative, you might want to raid ENC's closet as well.
BB, that's hilarious. I need to hear that song. Gigi needs a theme song.
aww, thanks Wendy!
I love the cherries speedy. LV is love!!!
You should send the pics to Cute Overload. Or to me :))). I'll back to blogging from today, with Marc Jacobs and Ralph Laurent show reports :))
At least your handbags and dogs know you love them!
i would love to see your bag collection wendy but i fear i might suffer from gorgeousiobagsenvyiso syndrome right after
That doggie is too cute! So are the bags 🙂 xoxoxo
omg you do have an obsession with photographing dogs with handbags! but its too cute not to do.
Luckily you took it out, because this prada handbag is too unique not to keep!
Ohhhhhhhh I want that Prada bag! I wasn't so much a fan of the fairy clothes, but the bag is LOVELY. Maybe when I'm not a poor student and the bag becomes vintage I can get one second-hand…
OH this is perfection!!! I love the pics!!!


text: Mar 6, 2013 06:14 Golfers tie for 4th in Florida Golfers tie for 4th in Florida Advocate news services Comments PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. — Heavy rain Tuesday at Sawgrass Country Club forced the cancelation of the final round of the John Hayt Invitational as the 12th-ranked LSU men's golf team finished in a tie for fourth place with its team score of 11-over 587 in 36 holes. Monday's scores provided the official results of this year's championship, as the Tigers tied for fourth with No. 7-ranked Florida, No. 14-ranked Arkansas and North Texas. The 25th-ranked North Florida Ospreys defended their home course by firing a winning 36-hole score of 17-under 559. No. 14-ranked Duke finished as the runner-up at 5-under par 571, followed by Central Florida in third place overall at 9-over par 585. Sophomore Curtis Thompson finished as the top LSU player by tying for 12th place with a two-round total of par 144. The Tigers will return to action next week with an appearance at the Louisiana Classics, hosted by Louisiana-Lafayette, at Oakbourne Country Club. Women's golf LADY TIGERS FINISH SIXTH IN SUGAR BOWL INTERCOLLEGIATE: In New Orleans, strong winds sent scores higher Tuesday at English Turn Golf and Country Club during the final round of the rain-shortened Allstate Sugar Bowl Intercollegiate, but the LSU women's golf team moved up two spots to finish in sixth place. Much as they did late in the fall semester, the Lady Tigers continued to show improvement. They posted a 36-hole score of 16-over 592 with a final-round total coming on a day in which the average score was more three strokes higher than the day before. UCLA won a one-hole playoff for the title over Southern California after the pair were tied after 36 holes at 4-over 580. Duke was third at 583, with Tulane (589) and Purdue (591) finishing in front of LSU. The Tigers were led on the final day by sophomore Madelene Sagstrom and freshman Elise Bradley. Sagstrom moved up 28 places on the final day to tie for 13th place after a par-72 round moved her to 2-over 146. Bradley also finished in the 13th-place tie with the same 36-hole total. Lindsay Gahm moved up six spots to tie for 35th at 6-over 150. LSU's other counting score on the day was Nadine Dreher with a 78. The LSU women's golf team returns to Baton Rouge for a week before going to the Darius Rucker Intercollegiate in Hilton Head, S.C., March 8-10. Track and field LADY TIGERS HOLD TOP SPOT, TIGERS MOVE UP IN RANKINGS: Emerging from the SEC Indoor Championships with three NCAA-leading performances this weekend, the LSU women earned a No. 1 national ranking for the third straight week, and the men's team moved up three spots to No. 13 nationally in the latest U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association Top 25 released Tuesday. Following the Lady Tigers in this week's power ranking is three-time defending NCAA Indoor champion and No. 2-ranked Oregon, No. 3-ranked Kansas, No. 4-ranked Arkansas and No. 5-ranked Clemson. The Tigers are up three spots to No. 13 in this week's USTFCCCA Top 25 men's power ranking as they are poised for a Top 10 finish at the 2013 NCAA Division I Indoor Track & Field Championships to run at the Randal Tyson Track Center in Fayetteville, Ark., on March 8-9. Get The Advocate in your inbox Subscribe


text:
Oh hi, I am Matt Barnett!
I am a graphic designer living in Roswell, Georgia. For the last 6 years, I have been working at Compass Collective, a trade show company in Atlanta. I serve as their Graphics Production Manager and IT Director. I have had the pleasure of working on trade show programs for companies such as AutoTrader.com, John Deere and Coca-Cola. I have helped manage graphics budgets in all ranges up to $40,000 per show. I also enjoy doing freelance design and photography. If you are interested in having a logo, website, or any printed material designed please feel free to contact me.
In our spare time, my wife and I enjoy hiking the mountains of northern Georgia and North Carolina with our Chihuahua, Pip. We recently adopted a black lab puppy, and I am sure he will enjoy the hikes too.
Email me - firstname.lastname@example.com


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Moraine Park Technical College students Jennifer Abraham of Plymouth and Kelly Brumley of Randolph were national finalists in the business-to-business marketing competition at the Distributive Education Clubs of America's (DECA) 61st annual International Career Development Conference held in Orlando, Florida, in late April.
They received an award for being one of the top 10 teams in the Business-to-Business Marketing Case Study.
A third Moraine Park student, Stephanie Newby of Fond du Lac, was one of three student marketing club presidents honored at the awards ceremony for her work on starting the Moraine Park chapter of Delta Epsilon Chi – Wisconsin Marketing & Management Association (WMMA), the collegiate division of DECA.
The three Marketing – Business-to-Business students had taken part in the state competition of the WMMA, held March 7-11 in Madison.
Abraham was also honored for receiving a $1,000 academic scholarship from NAPA Auto Parts for her active participation in WMMA, excellence on the job and her high academic standing.
DECA is an international association of high school and college students studying marketing, management and entrepreneurship. It operates in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, Canada, Mexico and Germany.
For more information about Moraine Park's marketing programs, visit www.morainepark.edu.
Moraine Park Technical College is accredited by the HigherLearning Commission
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Moraine Park Technical College | 235 North National Avenue | Fond du Lac, WI 54936-1940 | An Equal Opportunity College | © 2013


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Three Ross's Geese, Blue Sky. San Joaquin Valley, California. January 21, 2013. © Copyright 2013 G Dan Mitchell – all rights reserved.
Three Ross's geese directly overhead against blue morning sky
These Ross's geese obligingly flew directly over head against a blue sky and in morning light… and, no, they did not drop any, uh, payload on me. (That has happened. It comes with the territory. Someone told me that somewhere in the world – Europe? – it is considered good luck to get "bombed" by a goose. I could write much more on this topic, but I'll restrain myself. You may thank me later! ;-)
In any case…a difficulty when shooting birds passing overhead is that the light source is often higher than the bird, thus putting the parts of the bird facing the camera into shadow. But in very early or very late light – near sunrise or sunset – the sun is so low that it can cast light on the undersides of the birds, as in this photograph. When shooting this critters as they pass overhead in flight, while I can and do think about their positions in the frame and relative to one another, in the end I have to take what the birds give me. There is a lot that I cannot control about this kind of photography. It comes down to being observant, being able to work quickly and intuitively, and a whole bunch of luck regarding the birds, the light, and the weather.
G Dan Mitchell is a California photographer and visual opportunist whose subjects include the Pacific coast, redwood forests, central California oak/grasslands, the Sierra Nevada, California deserts, urban landscapes, night photography, and more.
Blog | About | Flickr | Twitter | Facebook | Google+ | 500px.com | LinkedIn | Email
Text, photographs, and other media are © Copyright G Dan Mitchell (or others when indicated) and are not in the public domain and may not be used on websites, blogs, or in other media without advance permission from G Dan Mitchell.


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Julian Jenkins
Position: DE
Height: 6-4 Weight: 270 lbs.
Born: October 25, 1983 in Boston, MA
High School: Woodward Academy
College: Stanford (school history) (Jenkins college stats)
Drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 5th round (156th overall) of the 2006 NFL Draft.
Weighted Career AV (100-95-...): 1 (13070th overall since 1950)
Relatives: Son of Ed Jenkins


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Lynx forward Seimone Augustus showed tremendous grit while playing through a knee injury that left her out of the lineup against Phoenix on Wednesday. Her teammates seemed inspired by Augustus's toughness, and put up a strong defensive effort as the (10-4) Lynx completed the sweep against (5-8) Washington with a 75-65 victory at Target Center.
"I appreciate Seimone playing through significant pain and she has had it all week. One game she couldn't play, and the ones she did play, she was hurting. She took it for the team today and I appreciate her being out there."
Minnesota Lynx Head Coach Cheryl Reeve
The game started with both teams playing well. The Mystics were moving the ball well and doing a nice job of distributing shots. Washington saw good bench production from Tierra Ruffin-Pratt and Kara Lawson, but the starters struggled and missed on some open opportunities, which allowed the Lynx to push ahead 20-16 behind the play of Seimone Augustus, Lindsay Whalen, and Maya Moore.
"I gotta do what I gotta do. 50 percent of me is better than none of me as far as being on the court and helping my team. It's tough, but I'm just excited to be out there after not being able to play in Phoenix. I just want to help my team."
Minnesota Lynx guard Seimone Augustus
Minnesota opened the second quarter on a 17-6 run punctuated by great ball movement and strong defense. Rookie Tricia Liston showed signs of growing confidence within the system, finding her range from deep, and finishing plays set up by Lynx starters Augustus and Maya Moore.
Washington fought to stay in the contest as the halfway mark approached with some solid outside shooting from Kara Lawson. Mystics guard Bria Hartley did a good job of pushing the lane and setting up her teammates, while center Kia Vaughn worked hard on the glass as the game headed into halftime with Minnesota up 43-34.
The third quarter turned into an all-out defensive brawl. Both teams were picking up their assignments, and creating havoc for shooters. As the Mystics starters tried to regain control Lynx forward Maya Moore found her rhythm on both sides and held strong.
Maya Moore had help offensively from Seimone Augustus and Lindsay Whalen, as well as strong defense from reserves Tan White and Devereaux Peters, while Minnesota managed to hold the lead 58-48 going into the fourth.
"I think they respect us a little bit more. Game plan was just that they were a lot deeper, you have a situation where with Peters and Monica Wright back, it really makes a difference…They're not one-hundred percent but it gives the starters a little bit of rest. Obviously Lindsay, Maya, Seimone, and Janel are big time players, you talk about Olympians, we don't have any of those right now."
Washington Mystics Head Coach Mike Thibault
The final quarter was relatively even, Washington had issues with finishing shots and used aggressive inside play to get to the free throw stripe at a high rate. While the Lynx showed great shot distribution, and clutch shooting down the stretch from Janel McCarville, Lindsay Whalen, and Seimone Augustus to hold off the Mystics 75-65.
On the shots that went down late for Minnesota…
"Yeah, I was going to jump on McCarville when she hit that, it made me mad. I was trying to call her name so she would miss it, but they hit those shots."
Washington Mystics center Kia Vaughn
Reserve Kara Lawson scored a team high 14 for the Mystics, while starting center Kia Vaughn pulled down a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds. Starting guard Bria Hartley made a solid contribution by adding 10 points and 6 assists, while staring forwards Monique Currie and Emma Meesseman combined for 17 points.
Maya Moore had a spectacular night, putting up three assists shy of a triple-double, scoring 20 while adding 10 rebounds and 7 assists. Lindsay Whalen played an all-around great game putting up 12 points on 5-7 shooting and recording 7 assists. While starting center Janel McCarville finished with 8 points and 7 boards, and rookie Tricia Liston scored 7 points on 3-4 from the floor.
Player of the game honors go to Minnesota Lynx guard Seimone Augustus for her inspiring performance while playing through significant pain. Augustus ended the game with 19 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal as she led her team to a 75-65 win over Washington.
"She's (Seimone Augustus) a leader, she leads by example. She's had to do that several times throughout her career and she just sets the way, and leads the way of how you carry yourself when you play through pain. It fires me up and everybody else up. It's just amazing to see, with the pain she has, to have focus and go 9-14 from the floor. You can't help but to play hard when your captains are playing like that."
Minnesota Lynx forward Maya Moore
Suggested Links
- WNBA: Diana Taurasi and rising Mercury take one from the Lynx 80-72.
- WNBA: Minnesota Lynx unstoppable as they take down San Antonio Stars 88-72.
- Woman-Up: A conversation with WNBA Lynx Head Coach Cheryl Reeve. Part I
- Woman-Up: A conversation with WNBA Lynx Head Coach Cheryl Reeve. Part II
- Woman-Up: A conversation with WNBA Lynx Head Coach Cheryl Reeve, Part III


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A highway planner might easily have overlooked that closing the Lakeshore exit from I-794 eastbound would cause traffic to back up all the way to the edge of Marquette University. But during peak periods of the morning week-day commute, traffic displaced from the Lakeshore exit to Van Buren-Jackson can fill two lanes of traffic all the way back to the lane bringing traffic from I-43 southbound to I-794 eastbound.
Since the lane from I-43 southbound merges into the two lanes coming straight through from I-94, this has brought traffic to a standstill some mornings. Once a vehicle gets far enough east to ease to the right into the third lane coming off I-43 northbound (which is also I-94 westbound at that point), thru traffic to the Hoan Bridge can bypass the back-up of exiting commuters to downtown. But its a long slow wait to get that chance.
For traffic coming from I-94 eastbound, one alternative is to exit to 6th Street or St. Paul Avenue, a little before the most congested stretch of freeway. Drivers heading to destinations east of the Milwaukee River bridges will have a mile or more to drive on surface streets, but will have more options than waiting for the traffic lights at the foot of the Van Buren off ramp.
Commuters going on to Bayview, Cudahy, or South Milwaukee, would face a lot more delays using this option, although when back-ups are really long, one option is to take Michigan Street east to Broadway, turn right, and take the on ramp back onto I-794, east of the Van Buren exit.
Resurfacing of the Hoan Bridge over the next two years will leave only three lanes for traffic. Wisconsin Department of Transportation plans to use a moveable barrier to provide two lanes northbound during morning commute hours, and two lanes southbound during evening commutes.
Suggested Links
- 27th Street construction offers unwelcome surprise to northbound drivers
- Commuting around Milwaukee in a Nissan Leaf: real life performance at 9000 miles
- Three fourths of striking fast food workers report taking the bus to work
- Hank Aaron trail closures, improvements, accompany rebuild of Zoo Interchange
- Challenges to legislative leadership open door for dedicated transit funding


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Connie Hardy and Mary Holz-Clause, P&S Value Added Agriculture Program; Howard Shepherd, P&S and Charles Hurburgh, Faculty Iowa Grain Quality Initiative
Rapid growth of ethanol production continues to generate many questions related to future analysis, shifts in existing businesses and policy development. In Iowa, new dry-grind ethanol processing plant construction is announced frequently, financed by either local or remote investor groups. New dry-grind ethanol plants are also being added to existing wet milling operations. As of June 2007, there were 124 ethanol refineries operating in the USA with 29 of them located in Iowa. These plants are capable of producing nearly 2 billion gallons of ethanol per year. In addition, 20 new Iowa refineries were in the construction/expansion phase and 28 had been announced.
As these new local processing markets develop, there will be innovation in contracts, price discovery and market information. There will also be changes to supplier interaction and service aspects as well. One of the growing concerns is the balance of corn supplies between new ethanol demand and existing feed/export demand. The logistics of more or less uniform constant use over the year are also a departure from the shipping-based export chain. Access to approximately one billion bushels of mobile storage in trains, barges, export elevators and river elevators is essentially cut off by the need to retain the entire crop within the state, most often very near where it was produced. Processing uses require sufficient local storage to provide a steady flow through the year.
Distillers grains, co-products of dry-grind ethanol production, are rapidly increasing, putting strain on marketing infrastructure and transportation. Depending on the size of local markets for wet distillers grains, plant managers decide how much of the distillers grains to dry, an important decision in terms of operating costs. Expansion of dairy and beef production is encouraged to use a large portion of distillers grains, and inclusion of distillers dried grains (DDG) in swine, poultry feed, pet food and human foods is being studied. As production of DDG increases to rival soybean meal production, shifts in prices and substitutions will occur.
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From OncoLog, June 2013, Vol. 58, No. 6
Addressing Emerging Survivorship Issues in Glioblastoma Patients
By Joe MunchAn increasing number of glioblastoma patients are becoming "long-term" survivors—living 3 or more years after diagnosis.
But this small success is bittersweet: these patients' prolonged survival can be marred by the lasting effects of the tumor and its treatments. As the concept of survivorship in this population emerges, researchers are working to identify and address the issues facing glioblastoma patients during and after treatment.
By the numbers
Since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's approval of temozolomide for the treatment of adult patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma in 2005, the 2-year survival rate of glioblastoma patients has doubled, from 12% to about 25%.
"Ten years ago, people were not talking about brain tumor survivorship issues," said John de Groot, M.D., an associate professor in the Department of Neuro-Oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. "But this new standard of care seems to have shifted the bar."
Despite this progress, nearly 100% of glioblastomas recur, usually within 6–8 months. The median survival duration of glioblastoma patients is 16–19 months; their 5-year survival rate is around 10%.
"There's a sense of futility if you read the numbers. But statistics are just statistics; they mean nothing for the individual patient," Terri Armstrong, Ph.D., a professor and an advanced practice nurse in the Department of Neuro-Oncology, said. "Our approach to every glioblastoma patient is to control the tumor for as long as we can. It's something the person is going to be dealing with for the rest of his or her life, and our goal is to maximize the patient's treatment options and ability to function during that time."
Lasting tumor effects
Symptoms of glioblastoma, the most common type of brain cancer, include headaches, seizures, changes in personality, and focal weakness on one side of the body. Many glioblastoma patients also experience tumor-induced cognitive deficits—primarily memory loss and loss of executive function—that may persist or worsen through therapy. Glioblastoma patients also experience mood disorders and personality changes at rates that are substantially higher than those of the general population of cancer patients.
"This disease ravages the organ that supports our ability to think, our personality, and our ability to modulate our emotions and behavior—all of which define who we are and determine how we navigate our world," said Jeffrey Wefel, Ph.D., an associate professor in the Department of Neuro-Oncology.
As with any brain tumor, the symptoms of glioblastoma—especially cognitive deficits—depend largely on the location of the tumor. Problems with executive function, for example, are more common in patients with tumors in the frontal lobe. Cognitive processes that rely on widely distributed neural networks, such as learning and memory, are affected by tumors in various locations.
The deficits created by glioblastoma can sometimes be permanent because the tumor destroys a portion of the brain. The technology to rebuild portions of the brain is not yet available for clinical use, and researchers are still working to develop treatments that will harness the brain's neuroplasticity to rebuild function in neighboring areas. As a result, glioblastomas are often treated much like a neurodegenerative condition: cognitive interventions focus on the patient's residual strengths and use a variety of cognitive prosthetics—assistive technologies designed to help improve the patient's daily function—to minimize the impact of the cognitive deficit.
"Oftentimes, we do not expect to see a dramatic restoration of the impaired cognitive process, but we help patients compensate so they can maintain as much independence as possible for as long as possible to help them enhance or maintain their quality of life," Dr. Wefel said.
Dr. Wefel is the interim chief of MD Anderson's Neuropsychology Section, a team of neuropsychologists who provide care and recommendations alongside neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists. These neuropsychologists regularly assess glioblastoma patients before, during, and after treatment to identify and address changes in cognitive function, behavior, and mood.
"By monitoring patients over time, we can identify changes in cognitive function or behavior that may be early indicators of tumor growth. Based on those findings, physicians may consider changing therapy, monitoring the patient more closely, or offering intervention strategies and referrals for other supportive care needs," Dr. Wefel said.
According to Dr. Armstrong, experience is key in caring for this population. "One of the issues patients often say they have before they come here is that they feel very isolated. In their community, they may be seeing a doctor who has seen one other glioblastoma patient before. But here, that's all we do. Many of us see 20 or 30 patients with this disease each week," she said. "I think patients also feel comforted that there are other people here who are like them—connections are being made in their support groups or in the waiting room."
Effects of treatment
In addition to having to contend with the adverse effects of the tumor itself, glioblastoma patients receive a number of therapies that also place healthy brain tissue at risk. The standard treatment for glioblastoma patients is surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible followed by concurrent temozolomide and radiation therapy and adjuvant temozolomide.
"These therapies are all directed at the brain, but they have very little ability to target just cancer cells. They also will affect the healthy tissue," Dr. Wefel said.
Surgery, though it has not been shown definitively to improve survival outcomes over chemoradiation with temozolomide, benefits patients by relieving the mass effect of the tumor. However, surgery often requires the transection of normal brain tissue to obtain clear surgical margins, which can result in further cognitive or neurological deficits.
Radiation therapy, by far the most effective treatment against glioblastoma, can cause permanent hair loss and short-term fatigue; over time, it can increase patients' risk for secondary tumors and result in additional cognitive and neurological impairments.
Temozolomide, despite the survival benefit it has shown, nevertheless increases patients' risk of infection and can cause fatigue, nausea, or vomiting. In fact, temozolomide may increase the neurotoxicity of radiation.
"We think that temozolomide may work in part by being a radiation sensitizer—making the radiation more effective—and that's great in terms of destroying the tumor, but then you're left with the side effects of radiation to the brain," Dr. de Groot said.
Glioblastoma patients who receive bevacizumab for recurrent disease may experience high blood pressure, be at a higher risk for stroke, and have blood-related issues such as hemorrhaging, clotting, and wound-healing complications.
The effects of glioblastoma and its treatments can also give rise to a number of physical, functional, and social issues that affect patients' quality of life. For example, only 20%–30% of patients return to a competitive work environment, usually with accommodations or a reduced role.
A number of intervention approaches, many in their infancy, are aimed at helping glioblastoma patients cope with the fallout of the disease and its treatments. For example, Dr. Wefel is conducting a feasibility study of a computerized neuroplasticity-based cognitive exercise program for improving patients' cognition. "We're very excited about it," Dr. Wefel said. "Traditional neuropsychological rehabilitation frequently requires daily sessions for several weeks or months—and for many of our patients, coming to MD Anderson that often just isn't possible."
Other interventions aim to address the roots of specific issues. Many glioblastoma patients experience seizures even after the tumor has been removed; rather than addressing the aftermath of the seizures, Dr. Armstrong and her colleagues are investigating whether prophylactic anticonvulsants can prevent or delay the occurrence of seizures.
Dr. Armstrong's team also found that patients who received a high dose of radiation to the pineal gland had high levels of melatonin—a hormone that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle—during the day, resulting in fatigue. In response to these findings, the group plans to explore methods of regulating melatonin to prevent fatigue.
"We're trying to take a step back and look at the biology underlying the fatigue," Dr. Armstrong said. "Instead of just giving patients something to deal with the fatigue, we hope to prevent the fatigue from occurring in the first place."
Focusing on survival
Even as the concept of glioblastoma survivorship emerges, the focus remains on extending patients' lives by adjusting existing therapies and identifying new approaches to combat the disease. For example, radiation oncologists are developing methods to more effectively limit the amount of radiation to normal brain tissue. These methods include proton therapy, which theoretically can be more accurately delivered to the tumor and spare normal brain tissue.
Clinical trials in glioblastoma are investigating the use of agents that have shown promise against other cancers or other diseases. For example, the addition of vorinostat (used to treat cutaneous T-cell lymphoma) to bevacizumab is being tested in patients with glioblastoma, as is the addition of memantine, mefloquine, and metformin (used to treat Alzheimer disease, malaria, and type 2 diabetes, respectively) to adjuvant temozolomide. Other glioblastoma trials are investigating the potential of novel agents and nontraditional therapies such as replication-competent adenovirus (Delta-24-RGD).
Data from projects such as The Cancer Genome Atlas are driving additional avenues of glioblastoma research. With these data, researchers hope to identify biomarkers that can be used to determine which patients will benefit from specific treatments.
"I think that people who have been treating this disease for 30 years definitely see this time as the initial stage of a new era," Dr. de Groot said. "A lot of people are thinking that we're on the verge of a breakthrough that sets us in motion to really improve the survival of patients with glioblastoma."
For more information, call Dr. Terri Armstrong at 713-745-4621, Dr. John de Groot at 713-745-3072, or Dr. Jeffrey Wefel at 713-563-0514.
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