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Saturday's letters: Right for the job
Published: Saturday, October 26, 2013 at 4:30 a.m.
Last Modified: Friday, October 25, 2013 at 3:32 p.m.
To the editor: The city elections will be soon. Who can do the best job? We have several choices.
I had personal experiences regarding eight breaking and enterings in our condo community. I called Hendersonville City Council member Jeff Collis and asked for assistance. He not only came to a board meeting in the Wolfpen community concerning the breaking and entering, he brought Mayor Barbara Volk and Police Chief Herbert Blake.
They addressed our concerns and offered solutions to us. Police officers increased patrols, and in a short time, the criminal was arrested, convicted and is doing prison time. Jeff and the police department went above and beyond the call of duty to assure our residents that they are safe. The contact with our community did not end. They still patrol and come to meetings concerning the security of our community.
Jeff Collis can do the job and does it very well. He is always available to serve the city of Hendersonville.
Tom Starling
Playing with fire
To the editor: I attended U.S. Rep. Mark Meadows town hall meeting and heard his willingness to shut down our government to get rid of the Affordable Health Care law. That was a bad idea, and Meadows made it worse. He was willing to let our government do something that it hadnt done during the entire history of our nation. He was willing to risk us defaulting on our debts!
I do not know what his background is in economics or if he knows that certain nations would just love to abolish the dollar as the worlds base currency. Hes playing with fire!
We are a nation among all nations. We are no better or worse than any of them, even if we think otherwise. We happen to be top dog right now. Certain nations want to nail us economically. If Mr. Meadows would get his way and the dollar would no longer be No. 1, the American economy would be deeply hurt for a generation or maybe more. Look how Great Britain was hurt when the world went off the pound sterling.
I hope Meadows steps back, as a rookie should, and learns and earns his way as our congressman.
Dennis P. Berman
Its about control
To the editor: I take exception to the letter of Oct. 20 titled Looking glass concerning the Affordable Care Act. Barack Obama has gone in and changed the ACA numerous times since it was passed. You need congressional approval to do that!
The government shutdown was because Congress asked that this bill be extended for one year for individuals as Obama had extended it for businesses without penalty. Obama refused to listen.
Thankfully, Mark Meadows is our congressman and he listens to his constituents. The vast majority do not want the ACA. Scary thought it is being implemented by the IRS. The IRS a part of our government that persecutes any group that politically disagrees with our imperial president.
The ACA is not a health care bill. It is about control. When you enroll, be prepared to lose your privacy. Obama and Eric Holder are fighting voter ID laws, yet you need a valid picture ID to enroll in the ACA.
Lets see. The ACA. Something the government says you must have and the majority of Americans dont want and you have to get it on a website that doesnt work or pay a penalty.
Doris Beall
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MEMPHIS, Tenn. – March 22, 2012 – Ducks Unlimited Chief Conservation Officer Paul Schmidt received the North American Waterfowl Management Plan's (NAWMP) International Canvasback Award last week for his significant long-term contributions to the implementation of NAWMP's conservation activities throughout North America. Schmidt was presented the award during a March 16 breakfast ceremony at the North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference in Atlanta.
Schmidt began his current position as DU's chief conservation officer in 2011, following his retirement from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) after more than 20 years shaping NAWMP's future and cutting a path for the success of waterfowl population management across the continent.
"After so many years working for the future of waterfowl through the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, I am honored to receive this award from my respected friends and colleagues in conservation," Schmidt said. "My experience with NAWMP has given me the opportunity to collaborate with some of the greatest minds in waterfowl and wetlands conservation, and I look forward to the continued success of this program and all the people who have contributed to it."
Schmidt began his career in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 1978 at the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. After serving in a number of positions in the refuge program (including seven years in Alaska) he assumed the position of chief of migratory bird management with FWS in 1993, overseeing the science program, hunting regulation and other matters pertaining to migratory birds. In that role, he demonstrated the value of collaboration in the conservation community.
"Paul showed a commitment to the partnership processes that define cooperative waterfowl management, and the determination to do the right things for the long-term stewardship of the resources under his purview," Dr. Mike Anderson of Ducks Unlimited Canada wrote in Schmidt's award nomination letter. "Tough-minded but fair with contentious issues, Paul could be counted on to broker the best possible outcomes for wildlife and people."
As chief of migratory bird management, Schmidt oversaw the creation of special measures to deal with burgeoning numbers of mid-continent white geese and their destructive impacts on Arctic ecosystems. He also helped launch the Adaptive Harvest Management program, designed to help FWS, the states and the Flyway Council use the best available science to factor in uncertainties and improve learning when setting waterfowl-hunting regulations for the year.
Schmidt co-chaired the Arctic Goose Joint Venture, as well as the NAWMP Committee for six years. Schmidt helped lead the committee through the broadening of the plan's vision to include conservation of whole landscapes, larger partnerships and stronger science.
Before his retirement from FWS as the assistant director, migratory bird program—a position he'd held since 2003—and transition to Ducks Unlimited, Schmidt led the NAWMP Plan Committee and FWS into a fundamental effort to rejuvenate the plan, 25 years after its inception.
"Paul has either been engaged personally, or has provided essential support at a senior level in the USFWS, for every progressive initiative under NAWMP in the past 20 years," Dr. Anderson said. "It is precisely for this kind of long-term, high-level leadership of NAWMP that the International Canvasback Award was created. There is no one on this continent more deserving of this honor than Paul Schmidt."
Ducks Unlimited is the world's largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America's continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, DU is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, with special events, projects and promotions across the continent. Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.ducks.org. Connect with us on our Facebook page at facebook.com/ducksunlimited, follow our tweets at twitter.com/ducksunlimited and watch DU videos at youtube.com/ducksunlimitedinc.
Emily Havens
(901) 758-3851
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President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs the Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp Act into law.
First duck stamp, designed by Pulitzer-prize winning editorial cartoonist, Jay N. "Ding" Darling, issued.
Prairie drought peaks.

subset: commoncrawl


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Sat 26th Oct at 2:30pm / 7:30pm
The Imperial Ice Stars
@ London Palladium, London
Featuring: The Imperial Ice Stars
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See all dates for The Nutcracker On Ice
The Nutcracker On Ice: The Imperial Ice Stars
A spectacular theatrical experience to thrill and enchant audiences of all ages.
The Imperial Ice Stars, the world's leading performers of theatrical ice dance, return to The Lowry with their stunning production.
Set to the magnificent music of Tchaikovsky, Sleeping Beauty On Ice tells the classic fairytale love story through sublime world-class skating, breathtaking high speed lifts and throws, awe-inspiring aerial gymnastics, stilt skating and fire effects.
'The hottest act on ice.' Sunday Express
The Imperial Ice Stars
The company features 26 Olympic, World, European and National Championship skaters with flawless dancing, brilliant costumes, perform magical ice dance shows.
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Venue: London Palladium
Website: london-palladium.co.uk
Bookings: 0844 412 4655
Disabled Bookings: 0844 412 4648
Seating Plan: View the Seating Plan
→ Charing Cross 17 min walk
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Federal workers rally against furloughs
Union for 20,000 SD workers wants Congress to cut elsewhere
Federal employees rallied outside of San Diego Naval Base on Wednesday to protest an at least 20 percent pay cut scheduled to start late next month.
About 50 people from the American Federation of Government Employees waved signs and shouted their displeasure at the prospect of being furloughed one day a week starting April 25. Furlough notices are expected to start arriving Thursday.
The union represents 15,000 to 20,000 San Diego workers at federal agencies, such as the Defense Department, Border Patrol and Immigrations and Customs Enforcement. Organizers said roughly 100 protests of this kind were held in cities around the nation Wednesday.
Melissa Tovar, 32, is a federal day-care worker at the Navy base childcare center. She makes less than $30,000 a year, at full pay. To weather a 20 percent pay cut, she said she is searching for a second job. She has placed applications at companies such as CVS and Staples.
"No luck yet," Tovar said. "No call backs."
The furloughs are the result of sweeping federal budget cuts known as sequestration, which were triggered March 1 when Congress failed to pass a deficit reduction plan. Facing a $1.2 trillion decrease in spending over the next decade, federal agencies have decided to cut worker salaries through furloughs.
In San Diego, the Defense Department alone employs about 24,000 civilians.
Border Patrol agents could take a pay cut of up to 40 percent, according to Terence Shigg, a longtime San Diego agent who represents National Border Patrol Council Local 1613. In addition to 14 furlough days this year, their overtime will be cut, he said.
Shigg said that adds up to an at least 20 percent reduction in man hours along the border.
Athena Stephenson of Chula Vista is the wife of a Border Patrol agent. She said her family is already living paycheck to paycheck, in part because of health insurance costs for her two young children, one of whom is autistic.
Stephenson is also thinking of taking a part-time job to bridge the financial gap. "We are actually talking about living on ramen" noodles, she said.
At the noontime rally on Main Street in Barrio Logan, workers and union representatives waved signs saying "Don't Cut the Middle Class" and "Jobs Not Cuts." One young child held a sign that said "I Value My Dad as a Hero. The Government Doesn't."
George McCubbin, a national vice president of the Government Employees union, said that federal employees have already had their pay frozen for three years.
He called on Congress to pass a budget that ends the sequestration.
"They have to look at tax increases instead of going after people's salaries," McCubbin said. "They need to realize there are other ways to achieve what they want."


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UPDATE: "The Flash" Hasn't Cast Savitar, Says Berlanti
TV, Comic Books
Showing results 156-195 of 371
This week, Brigid looks at Marvel's newly-launched Infinite Comics format, Mark Waid's foray into the numbers involved in publishing a printed comic, Graphicly's dramatic shift in publishing strategy and more.
The "Avengers Vs. X-Men" tie-in that launched Marvel's Infinite Comics digital platform goes under the spotlight as Joe Quesada, Mark Waid and Nick Lowe unpack the storytelling techniques of Nova's crash landing.
Kelly Thompson gives "Avengers Vs. X-Men" #1 4 stars saying the issue by Brian Michael Bendis and John Romita Jr. is "a good example of the creative talent managing to rise above the concept."
In our final WHEN TWO TRIBES GO TO WAR, CBR's in-depth look at "AvX," editors Tom Brevoort & Nick Lowe weigh in on several powerful unaffiliated Marvel U characters and their possible roles.
"Uncanny X-Men" writer Kieron Gillen answers fan questions about everything from "AvX" to Scottish culture, and shares details concerning the triumphant return of UNIT! All this, plus exclusive art!
Tim winds up with an unexpected sneak peek at Marvel's new Augmented Reality thanks to the premature release of "AvX" #1. Is Marvel AR a great bonus feature for readers or a failed attempt at enhancing comic books?
Two of the writers behind this year's biggest event, Matt Fraction and Ed Brubaker spent an hour answering fan questions about "Avengers Vs. X-Men," discussing character appearances and behind the scenes anecdotes.
Marvel Comics has provided CBR with an exclusive preview of the first three pages from both "AvX: Versus" #1 stories in their final, lettered form featuring Iron Man and the Thing throwing down with Magneto and Namor!
Writer Rick Remender announced an upcoming "Fear Agent" omnibus at Emerald City Comicon, and also dished with fans on his early career, the ethical repercussions of death, and the future of "Uncanny X-Force" and "Venom."
Marvel Comics Editor-in-Chief Axel Alonso digs into "Avengers Vs. X-Men" #0, explaining how Brian Bendis and Jason Aaron explored the pasts and futures of Scarlet Witch and Hope Summers with an exclusive first look at "AVX VS" #1.
Marvel has revealed Stuart Immonen's variant cover for "AVX VS" #1 modeled after a boxing marquee poster featuring the conflicts of Iron Man vs. Magneto and Thing vs. Namor. The battles begin April 25.
Courtesy of Marvel, CBR brings you advance looks at new titles on sale next Wednesday including "Avengers Vs. X-Men" #1, "Hulk" #50, "Ultimate Comics Spider-Man" #9, "Venom" #15 and more.
CBR News spoke with writer Rick Remender about his "Secret Avengers" plans including a battle with the robotic "Descendants" an "AvX" tie-in, and the return of Captain Marvel.
James Hunt gives "Avengers Vs. X-Men" #0 by Brian Michael Bendis, Jason Aaron 4.5 stars, calling the pages by artist Frank Cho "beautiful with refined and straightforward storytelling."
Marvel Comics Executive Editor & SVP of Publishing Tom Brevoort visited the CBR Tiki Lounge at WonderCon 2012 to weigh in on digital comics, "AvX," events and his tumblr blog.
The great bearded one, Jason Aaron, swings by to answer your emails about "Wolverine & the X-Men" and "AvX," and shares some exclusive art for your pleasure!
In an exclusive in-depth interview, Marvel Comics SVP David Gabriel notes over 250,000 pre-orders for "AvX" #1, explains the publisher's practice of overshipping, gauges the impact of new digital strategies and more.
Marvel has released a first look at "AVX: VS" #1 written by Jason Aaron and Kathryn Immonen with art by Adam Kubert and Stuart Immonen. Magneto and Iron Man battle it out on land, while Namor and Thing take to the seas April 25.
Marvel Comics has released an early preview of Jason Aaron and John Romita Jr.'s "Avengers Vs. X-Men" #2. The issue, with a cover by Jim Cheung, explodes into stores April 18!
Courtesy of Marvel, CBR brings you advance looks at new titles on sale next Wednesday including "Astonishing X-Men" #48, "AvX" #0, "FF" #16, "New Avengers" #23 and many more.
Marvel has released a preview of "AvX" tie-in issue "Wolverine & the X-Men" #9 by Jason Aaron with art by Chris Bachalo. Discover which side Wolverine chooses on April 18.
Marvel has released a first look at Walt Simonson's interior pages for "Avengers" #25 written by Brian Michael Bendis. Simonson's return to Marvel begins with the "AvX" tie-in April 18.
Jeph Loeb stopped by CBR TV to discuss the "Ultimate Spider-Man" cartoon, tease future Marvel Animation projects, explain the challenge of dovetailing "Avengers: X-Sanction" directly into "AvX" and more.
In today's WHEN TWO TRIBES GO TO WAR, "AvX" editors Tom Brevoort & Nick Lowe examine a seeming advantage for the X-Men, the power to read and manipulate minds.
In order to ensure retailers have "Avengers Vs. X-Men" #1 in time for launch parties, Marvel Comics is shipping the issue one week early with the caveat that stores hold the issue until the official release date.
Marvel Comics has released its full solicitation information and cover art for titles shipping in June, 2012, including "Avengers Vs. X-Men," "Hit-Girl" and more.
Writer Christos Gage speaks to CBR News about June's "Avengers Vs. X-Men" tie-in arc of his ongoing "Avengers Academy" series, guest starring the Lights of "Generation Hope."
Tom Brevoort, Jeph Loeb and Mark Waid anchor a round up of news and announcements surrounding the incoming "Avengers Vs. X-Men" event, including the secrets of the "Avengers Academy" tie-ins and where the Hulk(s) will pop up.
Fresh off his trip to South By Southwest to announce Marvel's ReEvolution digital products, Marvel Editor-in-Chief Axel Alonso takes fan questions on everything from Ultimate FF to rumors of a reboot.
Iron Man buckles before Emma Frost's diamond form in today's John Romita Jr.-illustrated teaser for April's Jason Aaron-scripted "Avengers Vs. X-Men" #2
It's a showdown of generals in "Avengers Vs. X-Men" #2 as Marvel's new teaser for the series features an exhausted Cyclops and Captain America engaged in an epic staredown.
Marvel has released a first look at Mike Deodato's interior art for "New Avengers" #24 written by Brian Michael Bendis. Discover which side the New Avengers membership falls in "AvX" on April 11.
The ruler of Atlantis takes on Power Man in "Avengers Vs. X-Men" #2 as Marvel releases a new teaser for the series featuring Namor and Luke Cage battling it out on the Sub-Mariner's home field.
"Deadpool" writer Daniel Way answers your questions about "Dead," battling the Avengers, and the problem with having a pretty face. Plus, exclusive art!
Marvel has released a new image by John Romita Jr. featuring Colossus on the losing side of a fight with Red Hulk in "Avengers vs. X-Men" #2 written by Jason Aaron. The battle continues April 18.
Marvel has provided CBR with an exclusive first look at Steve McNiven's interior pages for "AvX Vs." #2, featuring Captain America and Gambit locked in battle.
Marvel Digital SVP Peter Phillips and EIC Axel Alonso outline the new products debuting at SXSW including an Augmented Reality app adding content to "Avengers Vs. X-Men" and the new Infinite Comics platform.
The writer whose passion for digital comics has been well known brings his tablet-first findings to Marvel as Mark Waid explains how his Nova "AvX" tie-in story for Marvel Infinite Comics is just a first step.
Archives: All | Comic Books | TV/Film | Video Games | Web Comics


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At 2 a.m. Monday, firefighters responded to a large house fire at 113 North Lincoln in Moundridge.
The fire caused significant structural and interior damage to the building, but the structure still stands. There were no injuries.
Estimated damages are placed at $100,000. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Location, ST | website.com


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BELPRE - Bonny and Malcolm Barber became licensed as foster parents in 1987 only to help them care for a friend of their daughter's who needed a place to stay.
But soon after they received the license, Washington County Children Services contacted Bonny to see if they could keep a 4-year-old girl whose mother was going into the hospital and had no one to take care of her.
"I didn't even call (Malcolm) at work and tell him," Bonny Barber, 60, recalled Wednesday. "He came home, and we just had a kid."
Article Photos
Photo by Evan Bevins
Malcolm, left, and Bonny Barber, center, smile at their daughter Natashia while family dog Grace sits on her bed at their Belpre home. Natashia, 17, is one of three children who came to the Barbers' home as a foster child and was adopted by the family.
The girl's young brother joined her at the Barber home a few days later, becoming the second child the family would foster, along with their four biological children ranging in age from 9 to 15.
Now, 26 years and more than 200 placements later, the Barbers have retired from foster care. They were honored over the weekend at the second annual Child Abuse Awareness Walk, sponsored by Children Services. The agency has a few other long-serving families, but none have overtaken the Barbers.
"It's amazing that they've been with us for 26 years," said Teri Wright, interim foster care and adoption services supervisor for the agency. "I've been here for 25 years and I don't remember anybody else serving that long."
Fact Box
Becoming a Foster Parent
* A single adult, age 21 or older, or a married couple may become foster parents.
* Foster parents may work out of the home, but childcare must be maintained out of the foster parents' per diem.
* The first step is to register and attend the 36-hour pre-service training class provided twice a year.
* After an application is completed, an adoption assessor completes the home assessment, which requires several meetings and interviews.
* Federal, state and local background checks are completed on all adults in the home.
* An income statement must reflect the foster parent's income is sufficient to meet the basic needs of the household.
* Physical exams must be conducted on all members of the household.
* A safety audit, fire inspection and water test are completed.
* Four references will be contacted by the adoption assessor.
* Applicants may be required in certain situations, at the discretion of WCCS, to participate in additional medical assessments, psychological assessments or drug/alcohol assessments.
* An applicant must be a legal resident of the United States and a resident of Ohio.
Source: Washington County Children Services.
Bonny Barber wouldn't mind seeing the record broken. At the walk Sunday, she met a young family in the midst of their second placement with a foster child and encouraged them to stick with it.
"I said, 'Now remember, 26 years from today, we're going to meet in this park,'" she said.
Being a foster family comes with challenges and the $20-a-day per diem isn't a moneymaker. But the Barbers say their reward was knowing they'd helped children and families who needed it.
"There are people out there that need help - kids need help, parents need help," said Malcolm, 62. "That's what we're supposed to be doing in life, is helping each other out."
Children are placed in foster care for a variety of reasons, including cases of neglect or abuse, parents' substance abuse problems and unruly or delinquent behavior, if a judge determines that the home environment is not the place for them. Cases like the Barbers' first placement are less common, but still happen, Wright said.
There are 31 families registered to provide foster care through Washington County Children Services, with 35 children now placed. May is Foster Care Awareness Month, and the agency is always on the lookout for more prospective families.
"What we most need are families that will take the older children," Wright said. "I think most people feel more comfortable with younger children."
The Barbers have taken children of all ages into their home over the years. Bonny said her approach was shaped by her own experience in the foster system. In some cases, she and other foster children were so segregated from the rest of the family, they had to eat different food. When the family went on vacation, the foster children did not.
"I just wanted to be fair," Bonny said. "The rules that applied ... they apply to them all."
Malcolm recalled one boy who once asked the couple's biological son where his parents were. When he answered that they were just in the next room, the other youth didn't believe him at first.
"He says, 'We're all treated the same,'" Malcolm said.
What children in foster care often need is structure, something they may have lacked in their home lives, Malcolm said.
"It's white or black. You've got to walk the line with them," he said.
Being a foster family doesn't just affect the parents. Taking in children that were younger was easier on their biological children, Bonny said.
"They wanted to mother, dress up, paint nails," she said. "I think the closer to their own age though, it was harder for our kids.
"I think they did a great job in sharing their parents," Bonny said, adding she and her husband made a point of spending one-on-one time with their children.
And while the Barbers have added to their family through adoption, they believe in the top priority of Children Services, which is reunification of a family whenever possible.
"It's ... not a perfect world," Malcolm said. "We're just giving them a place to stay until their parents can get their stuff together."
Sometimes that happens, and the Barbers have even been thanked by parents of children they've fostered after the fact. Other times, the foster parents are seen as "the bad guys," Malcolm said. The family moved once after what was seen as a potential danger from a birth parent, although that perceived threat never materialized.
The children themselves can be a handful in some cases. The couple has a scanner in their house for Malcolm's service as a volunteer firefighter, and Bonny once heard a voice come across it saying, "One of Bonny's kids ran from the high school."
Laughing about it now, Malcolm recalled finding items that had been missing from the family's home being offered at nearby garage sales.
"We've bought our stuff back more than once," he said.
In some cases, a placement doesn't work out, either due to safety concerns or simply an unworkable clash of personalities.
"That was the hardest thing for me because I felt like I kind of failed the kid," Malcolm said.
In situations where reunification is not possible, sometimes a foster family will adopt a child they've cared for. That happened for the Barbers in the early '90s.
"I just knew that if somebody didn't show this child how worthy she was, she would take the other road," Bonny said.
The next child they adopted was Natashia, who was sent to them in 1997 at 18 months old. Believed to have suffered injuries at birth due to lack of oxygen, Tashia's life expectancy at birth was just 90 days.
Tashia was only slated to stay with the Barbers for three days prior to being placed at a care facility in Columbus. But when the nurse who brought her expressed doubts about the girl's prospects for survival in the facility, Bonny knew she would be there longer.
"I called her caseworker and said she could stay with us as long as we didn't put her at risk," she said.
The family received "110 percent support" from Children Services, who helped them get training to care for Tashia and was judicious when it came to the other children they sent to them.
"I didn't take any kids I had to chase anymore, because I can't," Bonny said.
Six months after she came to live with them, the Barbers learned Tashia's condition was much different than they'd thought. Fifteen-and-a-half years later though, Tashia continues to bring joy to her family.
The third child the Barbers adopted was Holee in 2000. Malcolm eventually gave her away, along with her biological father, at her wedding. Bonny recalls Holee disliking the rules of the house at times, but said she now has rules for her own children.
At the walk Sunday, Holee presented her adoptive parents with a poem, entitled "Thank You."
"For changing me as I changed/for accepting all my flaws/for not loving me 'cause you had to/but loving me just because," it reads.
Bonny was in tears when she read it.
"You never know," she said. "I did the best that I could do."
Age and Tashia's increasing needs - not to mention the presence of 16 grandchildren - led the Barbers to not renew their foster license this month. They have provided respite care for other foster families since their last regular placement, about two years ago. That experience went well, and when the time came to make a decision, Bonny figured, "what a good way to go out."
The Barbers agree the challenges in fostering are outweighed by the benefits. Asked what they would say to someone thinking about becoming a foster parent, they agreed: "Go for it."
"You have to be very open-minded. You (have) to have a lot of tolerance," Malcolm said. "What is normal for you and I is not going to be normal for these kids."


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Chamber Trivia Challenge returns March 13
Published: Wednesday, February 5, 2014 at 4:06 p.m.
Last Modified: Wednesday, February 5, 2014 at 4:06 p.m.
The eighth annual Chamber Trivia Challenge "March Madness Edition" sponsored by Park Ridge Health will be held Thursday, March 13 at the Blue Ridge Community College Conference Hall on the Flat Rock campus.
Registration and networking will be available from 5:30-6 p.m. The challenge will begin at 6 p.m. Teams consisting of four people will compete in three rounds of question-and-answer sessions with categories including pop trivia, local trivia, educational trivia, sports trivia and more. Prizes will be awarded to the winning teams, and food from The Dugout will be served.
The cost to participate is $150 per team of four, or $250 for a sponsorship with a team of four.
A registration form can be downloaded from the Chamber of Commerce website, www.hendersoncountychamber.org, or picked up at the Chamber office, 204 Kanuga Road (corner of Kanuga and Church streets). Proceeds from the Chamber Trivia Challenge support the Workforce Development Division and education efforts of the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce. For more information, call the Chamber at 828-692-1413.
Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.


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Q&A: With Mental Health Bill, Lawmaker Tries to Stem Gun Violence
New gun controls are a no-go in Congress, but one lawmaker says there's support for a plan that would slow the pace of gun violence.
Rep. Tim Murphy (R., Pa.), the only clinical psychologist in Congress, has found 88 House colleagues to back a bill that would change laws regarding the mentally ill. (Read our story on the bill here.)
Among other provisions, the bill would force certain individuals with severe mental illness into treatment against their will. It also would clarify privacy laws so that doctors can communicate with parents and care-givers of adult patients.
The Wall Street Journal sat down with Mr. Murphy to discuss his bill and whether it could have prevented recent tragedies, such as the May shooting and stabbing of college students in Isla Vista, Calif.
Mr. Murphy's bill would require states to adopt new criteria, known as a "need for treatment" standard, that would allow for certain individuals to be involuntarily committed to hospitals when they cannot recognize they are mentally ill. Mr. Murphy said each state should move beyond the current standard of committing people who "pose an imminent danger to themselves or others" – language that, he says, often marks too high a threshold for doctors and families to gain treatment for patients who are debilitated by their illnesses.
In recent weeks, the bill has stalled as privacy advocates lobby lawmakers to drop their support. The advocates say Mr. Murphy's plan would strip individuals with mental health problems of their personal liberty.
"We're concerned. . . that it provides incentives to get states to rely more on hospitalization," said John Head of the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, a vocal opponent of Mr. Murphy's effort. "We're concerned that the bill targets people with mental illnesses and takes away their privacy rights specifically."
An edited transcript of our conversation with Mr. Murphy follows:
Q: How far does this bill go in not giving people a choice in getting treatment?
A: The people who have severe mental illness, who have hallucinations, delusions, paranoia—40% to 50% of the time, these people don't even realize that their symptoms are a problem. They don't just think they might have a hallucination, they don't just think they are the angel Gabriel, they don't just think that the FBI has put a listening device in their brain. They believe it. They know. You can't talk them out of it.
When you look at people like Jared Loughner, and like Eliot Roger, and like Adam Lanza [perpetrators of mass shootings in Tucson, Ariz.; Isla Vista, Calif.; and Newtown, Conn., respectively] one of the commonalities among them was people knew they were severely ill. Family members and other people were trying to get them treatment, but they wouldn't do it. And so I raise this question for anybody who says, `Well, are you going to do something about someone's rights?' I would say, in those cases, do you think, that those young men should have been compelled to go on treatment? I think the answer is, yes.
Q: How confident are you that the mechanisms we're talking about would have caught the names we're now familiar with: the Adam Lanzas . . . the Jared Loughners.
A: One of the things we now have from those who remained alive is, for example, I think it was Loughner who had said if he had been on medication, in treatment, he probably wouldn't have done this. So, I think in those cases, it's far more likely that perhaps this could have been stopped.
Treatment does make a difference – in fact, the statistic we saw was that someone who was severely mentally ill and was in treatment is 15 times less likely to be involved in violence. [The statistic comes from the director of the National Institute of Mental Health in testimony to Congress.]
Q: I think a lot of people have framed this bill as an alternative to tightening gun control measures. How do you see those two things in relation to one another?
A: I'm talking about an illness. I'm talking about a medical problem, I'm talking about a brain disease. . . . I think we need to focus on what's in people's heads, not what's in their hands.
Q: Let's talk about the politics of this bill. What step in the process would you say it's currently in?
A: We're in the process of gathering members and talking to them and saying, "What do you think we can come to some agreements on?" You find your common ground, and then you say, "What do you think could get there but needs major work?" I want to find some agreements here, because I want to start moving bills to the floor, where we can establish that Congress is moving forward and not just sitting and listening.
Q: The last time you spoke with the Wall Street Journal, you said you were working "in cooperation with leadership" on this bill.
A: Yes, [House Majority Leader] Eric Cantor and I were frequently talking. [Majority Whip] Kevin McCarthy and I were talking about this, and there's very much support there But they're saying they want me, as the lead person on this, to continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to find some areas of agreement.
Q: When do you think pieces of this bill will be ready to move?
A: I'd love to see some things in July, quite frankly. I've told my colleagues, we ought to be able to move something before the school year starts. But even so, what we put forth is going to take some time to float into the communities.
This post has been updated to clarify Mr. Murphy's position on when an individual can be involuntarily committed to hospitals.


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I finally got pms fully setup. On my ps3 I could watch video's in both there default format and transcoded. But on the other hand when it came to streaming to my computers I could only watch if it wasn't transcoded. If I tried watching anything transcoded my media player wouldn't play it, though pms transcoding buffer was active. I was using media monkey as my media player btw.
Can anyone tell me what is causing this and if there's anything that can fix it?


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POSITION: Right Wing
SHOOTS: Right
BIRTHPLACE: Toronto, ON, CAN
DRAFTED: DET: 1991-76 overall
|CCHA Second All-Star Team (1994, 1995) NCAA West Second All-American Team (1995) Traded to NY Rangers by Detroit for NY Rangers' 2nd round pick (Tomas Kopecky) in 2000 NHL Draft, October 1, 1998. Traded to Boston by NY Rangers for Rob DiMaio, March 10, 2000. Signed as a free agent by Philadelphia, July 3, 2004. Signed as a free agent by Linkopings (Sweden), August 2, 2004. Signed as a free agent by Washington, July 1, 2009. Signed to a PTO (professional try-out) contract by Grand Rapids (AHL), January 18, 2013. Signed as a free agent by Philadelphia, January 25, 2013.
One of only three players to play all 82 games for PHI and finished fifth on the team in goals (27), tied for eighth in assists (20) and sixth in points (47) … Reached the 20-goal mark for the sixth time in his career and for the sixth consecutive season …Tied with Teemu Selanne for the most goals by any player 35 and older … The PHI nominee for the Masterton Trophy for perseverance and dedication to hockey … Had 34 points (17g-17a) against non-divisional opponents … Registered 10 points (5g-5a) against Washington's Southeast Division opponents last year … Second on the club in GWGs (6) and third in PPGs (11) … Led the team in shooting percentage (15.6%) for players who took 85 or more shots … Scored 19 goals at home and eight
on the road … Averaged 18:10 TOI per game and 2:54 of power-play TOI per game… Had two assists 10/18 at SJ … Did not score his first goal of the season until the seventh game of the season, 10/24 at NJ, but then scored in five straight games (6g) from 10/24—11/2 … Streak included two goals at ATL (10/28) … Scored twice vs. DAL (11/24) … Had two goals vs. PIT (12/13) and scored at PIT (1/13) … Potted two goals vs. ATL (1/21) … Recorded goals in three straight games (at NYR, vs. BUF, vs. PIT) from 2/15—2/21 … His 11 multiple-point games were highlighted by a three-point outing (1g-2a) at BOS (3/3); game was also his 800th career NHL game … Played in all six ECQF Stanley Cup playoff games against PIT and had three points (2g-1a) …Scored goals in Games 5 and 6.
2007-08: Surpassed the 20-goal mark for the fifth time in his career … Was one of only two PHI players to play all 82 games … First on the team and tied for eighth in the NHL in PPGs (15) … Third on the team in power-play points (30) … Had a goal and an assist in the season opener at CGY (10/4) … Tallied three points (1g-2a) on both 11/21 and 11/28 at CAR … Had two goals at WSH (1/13) … Played in 700th career NHL
game and had an assist vs. FLA (1/16) … Posted first career NHL hat trick in a 3-0 victory against ANH (2/2) … Named NHL's Third Star of the Week for the week ending 3/2 after posting eight points (3g-5a) in four games … Recorded a goal and an assist 3/28 at NJ … Ended regular season with goal and assist against PIT (4/6) … Played in Games 1-5 against WSH in the ECQF and had five points (2g-3a) … Scored in Game 3
and also scored the 2OT GWG in Game 4 … Injured his hamstring in Game 5 against WSH and did not play again until Game 4 of the ECSF against MTL, where he had an assist … Scored in Game 5 as PHI eliminated MTL … Played in all five games against PIT in the ECF. 2006-07: Flyers' nominee for the King Clancy Memorial Trophy … Scored at least 20 goals in a season for the fourth time in his NHL career … Was second on the team in goals (24), assists (30), points (54) and PPGs (10) … First on the team in shooting percentage at 15.0% … Missed a total of 18 games because of injury … Missed six games from 10/30—11/11 due to a broken middle finger on his left hand sustained against PIT (10/28) … Missed 12 games from 2/19—3/13 after sustaining a fractured right cheekbone and orbital bone 2/17 at NYR … Had two goals 10/14 at NJ … Scored a goal in four straight games from 11/25—12/2 and had a point (5g-1a) in six straight games from 11/22—12/2 … Notched his 300th career point, an assist on a GWG, at NYI (1/2) … Recorded two goals and an assist 2/1 vs. NJ and 2/8 vs. PIT … Registered at least a point (3g-5a) in five straight games from 2/8—2/17 … Had three points (1g-2a) vs. CAR (3/28) … Ended season with three points (1g-2a) vs. BUF (4/8). 2005-06: Only player to play all 82 games for PHI …Led club in PPGs (13) and shooting percentage (15.7%) … Second on the team in goals (34) and plus/minus rating (+25); third in points (65) … Set career highs in goals, assists (31) and points … Reached 30-goal mark for the second time in his NHL career … Scored a goal in the first game of the season 10/5 vs. NYR … Had a five-game point streak (5g-4a) from 10/28—11/8 that was highlighted by two goals at OTT (10/30) … Scored twice 11/12 vs. FLA and 12/17 at STL … Had at least a goal (6g) in five straight games from 12/15—12/23 … Was +8 without a minus rating in
14 straight games, from 12/22—1/17 … Tallied three points (1g-2a) vs. COL (1/13) … Scored twice 2/4 vs. NYR and 3/22 at NYR … Had two points in three straight games (at ATL, vs. NJ and at NYR) from 3/18—3/22 … Played in all six ECQF games against BUF and had one goal and three assists. 2004-05: Had 39 points (26g-13a) and 40 PIM in 49 games for Linkopings HC (Sweden), where he was a teammate of Brendan Morrison … Was first on the team in goals (tied for first in the league) and was third on the team in points (tied for eighth in the league). 2003-04: Recorded 46 points (21g-25a) in 82 games for BOS … Led Bruins in plus/minus at +19 and wasthird on the team in goals (21) … Recorded a plus or even rating through the first 14 games of the season (+9) … Notched the GWG with 1:48 left in the game at LA (10/18) as Boston rallied from a three-goal deficit to win 4-3 … Scored twice 10/19 at ANA… Had nine multiple-point games during the season and recorded a season-high three points (1g-2a) vs. SJ (11/6) … Had points (2g-4a) in five straight games from 1/3—1/12 … Scored goals in four straight games (4g-2a and +6 in that span) from 3/6—3/13 and scored OT GWGs at BUF (3/11) and vs. BUF (3/13) … Goal on 3/11 was his 20th of the season and his 100th of his career … Goal on 3/13 came in his 500th NHL game … Played in all seven ECQF Stanley Cup playoff games vs. MTL … Scored in Game 1 and delivered a game-tying goal with 30.7 seconds remaining in Game 4 (BOS won in OT). 2002-03: Played in 75 games for BOS and had a breakout year … Third on Bruins in goals (30) and tied for third in points (59) … Second on the team in plus/minus (+18) … Scored in the first game of the year 10/11 at MIN … Registered at least a point (3g-8a) and was +13 in the team's eight straight wins from 11/9—11/30 … His four multiple-goal games came after 2/13 … Tallied four points (2g-2a) at FLA
(2/14); goals were scored at 0:10 and 0:27 of the first period making him the fastest player in NHL history to score two goals from the start of a game … Potted two goals at CHI (3/9) and also scored on his first career penalty shot (goalie: Jocelyn Thibault)… Had two goals at LA (3/22) and vs. BUF (4/5) … Played in all five ECQF Stanley Cup playoff games against NJ and recorded two assists. 2001-02: Played in 54 games
for BOS … Missed 13 games because of injury and did not dress for 15 games …Had 14 points (8g-6a) and 42 PIM … Ended the season with a plus/minus rating of +9 … Dished out two assists 11/15 vs. NJ … Registered three points (2g-1a) and was +4 at FLA (12/28) … Scored the GWG at FLA (3/23) … Played in two Stanley Cup playoff games against MTL. 2000-01: Played in all 82 games with BOS … Had 20 points
(7g-13a) … Had a goal and an assist vs. FLA (10/9), vs. PHI (12/19) and vs. OTT (3/8)… Scored the GWG vs. SJ (3/3). 1999-00: Split the season between the NYR (59 games) and BOS (14 games) … Registered 20 points (12g-8a) in 73 total games …Had 14 points (9g-5a) for NYR and six points (3g-3a) for BOS … Tallied a goal and an assist for NYR at TB (11/24) … Had two goals (including the GWG), one assist and was +3 for NYR at PIT (1/25) … Registered two points (1g-1a) for BOS at MTL (3/29). 1998-99: Played in all 82 games for the first time in his career for NYR … Had 35 points (15g-20a) … Had three points (1g-2a) vs. TOR (12/7) … Scored the GWG and added an assist 12/14 vs. CGY … Registered three points (2g-1a) vs. MTL (2/17) …
Had three points (2g-1a) and was +3 at WSH (3/4). 1997-98: Played in 53 games for DET as the Red Wings won their second straight Stanley Cup … Had 13 points (7g-6a) … Recorded his first career NHL assist on 10/3 at EDM … Registered his first NHL two-goal game on 10/22 at ANA … Played in three Stanley Cup playoff games for DET and had one assist. 1996-97: Played in nine games for DET, making his NHL debut on 3/26 vs. COL … Recorded his first NHL point/goal on 4/5 vs. TOR … Skated in 68 games for Adirondack (AHL) … Was second on the team in goals (28) and was third in assists (35) and points (63). 1995-96: Registered 45 points (22g-23a) and 59 PIM in 80 games for Adirondack in his first full professional season … Ranked fourth on the team in goals and fifth in points … Had one goal in three Calder Cup playoff games. 1994-95: Made his professional debut with Adirondack in the Calder Cup playoffs and was scoreless in three games.
International Career
Has represented the United States at five international events, including the 2006 Winter Olympics. 2006: Tallied one goal and one assist in six games for Team USA at the Winter Olympics in Torino, Italy. 2005: Recorded six points (4g-2a) in seven games at the World Championship … Tied for first on the team in points (six). 2001: Had two goals in nine games at the World Championship. 1999: Registered 10 PIM in six games at the World Championship. 1995: Had three points (1g-2a) in six games for Team USA at the World Championship.
College Career
Played four years at the University of Michigan (CCHA) and finished his career with 175 points (103g-72a) and 238 PIM in 157 games … Tied for eighth in school history with 103 goals … Fourth in school history with 48 PPGs … Ranks tied for seventh in school history with 14 GWGs … Played in three NCAA Frozen Fours. 1991-92: Voted most colorful rookie by the team's booster club … Had 15 points (7g-8a) and 48 PIM in 43 games as team advanced to the NCAA Frozen Four. 1992-93: Voted Most Improved Player by his teammates … Registered 42 points (26g-16a) and 57 PIM in 39 games, as team advanced to the NCAA Frozen Four. 1993-94: Had 58 points (32g-26a) and 71 PIM in 41 games … Tied a school record with 21 PPGs in a
season … Named to the CCHA Second All-Star Team. 1994-95: Voted team MVP by his teammates … Recorded 60 points (38g-22a) and 62 PIM, as team advanced to NCAA Frozen Four … Led the NCAA in goals (38) … Tied the eighth-best mark in school history for goals in a season … Tied the fourth-best mark in school history for goals in a season by a senior … Tied a school record with eight GWGs … Named to the CCHA Second All-Star Team … Named to the NCAA West Second All-American Team.
NHL Transactions
Selected by Detroit in the fourth round, 76th overall, in the 1991 Entry Draft … Traded to the New York Rangers by Detroit in exchange for New York's second-round draft choice in the 2000 Entry Draft (Tomas Kopecky), Oct. 1, 1998 … Traded to Boston by the New York Rangers in exchange for Rob DiMaio, March 10, 2000 … Signed with Philadelphia as a free agent, July 3, 2004 … Signed with Washington as a free agent, July 1, 2009.
Created the Mike Knuble Family Foundation … Supports a variety of children's causes … Foundation raises money for the Van Andel Institute in Grand Rapids, Mich. (an independent research organization focusing on cancer, Parkinson and cardio-vascular disease research) … Enjoys playing golf … Calls playing in the 2006
Olympics his top hockey memory … Favorite spots in Washington, D.C., are the National Air and Space Museum and Old Town Alexandria.


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Cottages Near Bourton On The Water
Just Show Me Bourton On The Water Cottages
Welcome to England's answer to 'Little Venice', an exceptionally pretty village straddling the River Windrush, featuring the region's distinctive architectural style - think mellow Cotswold stone, mullion windows and steeply pitched roofs. And our Bourton-on-the-Water holiday cottages are no exception, plus there's a great choice of things to see and do.
Attractions near Bourton-On-The-Water
Meet penguins, pelicans, parrots and more at Birdland. View vintage cars, motorcycles and caravans at the Cotswold Motor Museum. Create a personal fragrance at the Cotswold Perfumery. Splash out on a special keepsake at Cotswold Pottery. Pick up lifestyle tips at The Living Green Centre. Find the centre of the Dragonfly Maze. Tour the Cotswold Brewing Co. Step into the murky past on the Bloody Bourton Walking Tour. Step back to the 1930s at the Model Village, an amazing downsized version of Bourton-in-the-Water. Find out more and pick up local maps and guide books at the Visitor Information Centre.
Swap sightseeing for retail therapy and browse Bourton's fine collection of tempting shops, showcasing everything from antiques and sheepskin to toys, jewellery and home-ware.
Gardens galore! Just twenty minutes by car brings you to Hidcote Manor, Bourton House and Kiftsgate Court amongst others, all wonderful places to explore, experience and admire. Or you can soak up the many delights of the surrounding countryside walking, riding, cycling and fishing.
And when it comes to food and drink, Bourton caters for every
taste with traditional inns, riverside tearooms and stylish
Hugely popular throughout the year with visitors from both the UK and overseas, just remember to book your cottage in Bourton-on-the-Water early!
Please find below self catering accommodation and holiday homes
near Bourton on the Water in The Cotswolds.


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It is my personal belief, one I share with ... perhaps millions of others, that the time is quickly approaching for the maturation of the god-seed and global lightbody activation leading to a hypercommunication revolution with the ability to unite all of humanity as a differentiated, enlightened consciousness. "The age that has been written about, whispered about, and spoken about is upon you," writes Marciniak. "It is the age when humanity physically mutates … and literally turns into something … it was not a short time before … multidimensional beings." For the ancient Incas, our generation, which is fortunate enough to experience the "end of history" with the Galactic Alignment of 2012, is poised to become the true chakarunas, "the bridge people" tasked with creating Heaven on Earth.
Sol Luckman
Source: Conscious Healing: Book One on the Regenetics Method, Pages: 141
Contributed by: Reality
Copyright © 2016 Gaiam, Inc.


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Cars Coming Soon: BMW i8, as Seen in "Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol"
The new Mission Impossible movie isn't so much an espionage spy thriller as it is a 1-hour-and-50-minute-long car advertisement. No fewer than four models in the BMW stable make an appearance in the film, with the lead role going to the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car. Tom Cruise may get his name in the lights, but BMW is the star.
The product placement has its purpose, of course. Marketing folks at BMW hope movie watchers will want to be like Cruise's Ethan Hunt character and cruise around town in a Bimmer of their own.
And wouldn't you know it, the very car Cruise drives in the movie is coming soon to a dealer near you, as the BMW i8.
Car Industry News, Car Minded, Cars Coming Soon, Electric Vehicles, Exotic Cars, Foreign Cars, General Chat


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- May 9:
- Hicks: Set list for Rolling Stone May 8 concert
- May 6:
- Setlist: Rolling Stones in Oakland
- Review: Rolling Stones fall flat in Oakland
- May 1:
- Hicks: Former Rolling Stone Mick Taylor, drummer Alex Van Halen top my list of underrated musicians
- Apr 30:
- Rolling Stones: 10 reasons why they still matter
- Apr 28:
- Rolling Stones rock small L.A. club ahead of tour
- Apr 12:
- Hicks: The Rolling Stones not making a new record
- Apr 11:
- Rolling Stones tickets: High prices, big profits, disgruntled fans
- Apr 4:
- Hicks: The Rolling Stones, just one last time?
When Pete Townshend inducted the Rolling Stones into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989, he advised them not to grow old gracefully, because it wouldn't suit them.
Not only were they surprisingly graceful -- an incredibly strange word to describe the Stones -- they were downright powerful Wednesday night at HP Pavilion in San Jose, which may have been the last time (maybe the last time? I don't know) they play the Bay Area.
While many are predicting this tour is the last go-round for the Stones, they seemed to be unaware of any such idea. It's the "50 and Counting" tour, not the "We Just Looked at Our Birth Certificates and Realize We Shouldn't be Doing This" tour.
They've lasted longer than any other band in modern times (they're just about even with the Duke Ellington Orchestra), and they certainly look like it, but there's no reason for them to stop playing if they can perform to the level of Wednesday night. Blues players in their 70s and 80s are lauded for touring, even if they have to sit down while playing.
Despite any other bumps the band hit elsewhere on this tour, the Stones don't seem quite ready for rocking chairs.
The night had the feel of a giant party, with the guest list including Bonnie Raitt and her jagged slide guitar playing on "Let it Bleed," and John Fogerty nearly shredding his vocal chords on "It's all Over Now."
Mick Jagger hasn't lost anything. He was still the hyperactive, strutting rooster he's always been. But this band is still powered by guitar, and hearing Keith Richards and Ron Wood play guitar together was like hearing a happy old married couple finishing each other's sentences, only with guitar licks. Despite Richards occasionally seeming to drift on stage (he consistently recovered and got stronger as the night went on), the Stones were dialed in musically and enjoying each other the entire two hours and twenty minutes they were on stage.
But were they so good Wednesday because they know this is it? Is this tour a final surge of strength before the patient succumbs?
The show definitely had a different vibe than past tours. The guest stars, the high ticket prices and limited amount of dates, bringing back Mick Taylor, and playing a greatest hits set (outside of one new song, "One More Shot") all indicate this is a farewell tour. Which, normally, might be sad for die-hard fans. But Wednesday wasn't sad -- it was a big, joyous celebration.
If there was anything to be disappointed about, it's that guitarist Taylor -- the former Stone who is sitting in on the tour and played on two songs Wednesday -- didn't come out to deliver the nasty lead on "Bitch." Though having him play on finale "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction," for the first time since 1973 may have been a sentimental nod from the guys who reportedly helped push Taylor from the band over songwriting credits. The band also played with former bassist Bill Wyman on a few English dates at the end of last year and reportedly invited him to America, but Wyman declined, apparently frustrated that he would only play on a couple songs a night.
Bands -- especially those with long memories -- don't invite former members on tour unless it's a special something. Like a farewell tour.
So, instead of dwelling on what we might miss in the future, us fans not old enough to see the Stones in previous incarnations were treated to Taylor sandblasting the rust off Richards and a harp-blowing Jagger in "Midnight Rambler." We got to see Wood and longtime Stones sax player Bobby Keys build a wall of sound during "Brown Sugar." We got an epic "Sympathy for the Devil" (a great test of whether the Stones can still play), with Richards recovering from a lull to stomp around the stage during his solo, glaring at the crowd as if daring it to tell him he's too old.
We got one more rousing encore of "You Can't Always Get What You Want" (with the San Jose State University Choraliers). We got a tight "Jumpin' Jack Flash" and something most of us thought we'd never see: a grinning Richards lined up with Wood and Taylor to deliver arguably rock's greatest riff.
You know, maybe they should call it a day. Because I'm not sure how they could ever deliver a better farewell show.


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I have some problems with Ps3 Media Server. It just don't want to connect, if i try so it will hang on the render logo or i get an error with a big cross.
So I really want to know if anyone could help me out whit this, i've read every thread on multiple forums about this problem but they just didn't help me out.
And I don't think it is a problem with the settings on my pc or on my playstation 3, because my ps3 does connect whit Windows Media Player 11. But WMP is not what I am looking for.
The strange part is that I used PMS like 8 months ago and it worked fine I ieven could play mkv files, but i don't know what went wrong now.
I just updated the software and it's still not working.
I anyone could help me out i would really appreciate it!
And i also tried Universal media streaming, but that also didn't work.
I get an error and this is what I see in the log.
- Code: Select all
07-12 01:35:25 Using forced address MY ip adress
07-12 01:35:25 Created socket: /MY IP ADRESS:5001
07-12 01:35:25 error during restart :Address already in use: bind
java.net.BindException: Address already in use: bind
at sun.nio.ch.Net.bind0(Native Method) ~[na:1.7.0_25]
at sun.nio.ch.Net.bind(Unknown Source) ~[na:1.7.0_25]
at sun.nio.ch.Net.bind(Unknown Source) ~[na:1.7.0_25]
at sun.nio.ch.ServerSocketChannelImpl.bind(Unknown Source) ~[na:1.7.0_25]
at sun.nio.ch.ServerSocketAdaptor.bind(Unknown Source) ~[na:1.7.0_25]
at sun.nio.ch.ServerSocketAdaptor.bind(Unknown Source) ~[na:1.7.0_25]
at net.pms.network.HTTPServer.start(HTTPServer.java:137) ~[ums.jar:2.5.0]
at net.pms.PMS$5.run(PMS.java:710) ~[ums.jar:2.5.0]
at net.pms.util.TaskRunner$2.run(TaskRunner.java:106) ~[ums.jar:2.5.0]
at java.util.concurrent.ThreadPoolExecutor.runWorker(Unknown Source) ~[na:1.7.0_25]
at java.util.concurrent.ThreadPoolExecutor$Worker.run(Unknown Source) ~[na:1.7.0_25]
at java.lang.Thread.run(Unknown Source) ~[na:1.7.0_25]


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First, let us present the plain facts: there is a new study out, based on statistics gleaned from "time use diaries" filled out by women chronicling their own activity. Researchers found that American women today are spending only about half as much time doing housework—vacuuming, laundry, etc.—as they were 45 years ago. During the same period of time, the amount of time that women spent sitting down and watching a screen doubled. The conclusion, based in simple biological fact, as stated in the NYT in a story headlined "What Housework Has to Do With Waistlines:"
According to the authors' calculations, American women not employed outside the home were burning about 360 fewer calories every day in 2010 than they had in 1965, with working women burning about 132 fewer calories at home each day in 2010 than in 1965.
The study's author, a doctor, recommends "finding ways to incorporate movement" into time spent at home, for health reasons. (He does not call for that movement to be housework. Nor does he decry the fact that women are doing less housework.) All very straightforward. Less physical activity and more sedentary time means fewer calories burned per day—in this case, among women, who happened to be the topic of this particular study.
Now, the real question: How angry will everyone get about these scientific findings, due to a failure to fully digest the facts of this story? Let's turn to the reaction on Twitter happening right now.
Only one person in the whole class gets a gold star:
Let's all take this as a gentle reminder that just because you don't like (or didn't take the time to read!) a scientific study doesn't mean it's wrong.
[Well. Photo: Shutterstock]


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Halliburton CFO Chasing Yield With Spare Cash
Halliburton Co. Chief Financial Officer Mark McCollum on Friday said the oil-field-services company has moved cash into longer-term bonds in hopes of earning higher returns than what's currently offered on money market mutual funds and Treasurys.
"During 2012, we started investing in some longer-term fixed-income securities that don't meet the accounting definition of cash equivalence," Mr. McCollum said on a Friday conference call to discuss its fourth-quarter results, according to an unedited transcript provided by FactSet. "We have…been trying to achieve higher investment yields on our excess cash."
In footnotes within financial statements accompanying its earnings press release, Halliburton disclosed that it held $270 million of fixed-income investments that were considered "current assets" – or those with a maturity of less than a year – at the end of December, compared with $150 million as of a year earlier. It also had $128 million in fixed income at year end with longer maturities; the footnote didn't mention any fixed income with maturities exceeding a year at the end of 2011.
Brian Uhlmer, who follows Halliburton equity for Global Hunter Securities, said that if the company has excess cash, the money should be returned to holders in the form of higher dividends and increased share repurchases. "We don't pay companies and management teams to make investment decisions outside their bailiwicks."
However, Mr. Uhlmer said he does not believe the company has increased its risk substantially by investing in longer-dated securities.
A Halliburton spokeswoman said in an e-mail that Mr. McCollum and other executives weren't available for interviews on Friday. She didn't respond to a follow-up request to provide further details on the new investments.
Halliburton has been conservative with its balance sheet in recent years as it continues to assess its liability, if any, for the Deepwater Horizon disaster in 2010, according to Stephen Gengaro, an analyst with Sterne Agee, adding that the company could raise its dividend in the near term. Halliburton served as a cementing contractor on the project; in a late October securities filing, Halliburton said the U.S. Department of Justice hadn't commenced any criminal proceedings against it as of that point.
In response to an analyst's question on the call, Mr. McCollum said that returning capital to holders remains a company priority, and its board will continue to meet in the coming weeks to discuss its capital-return policies. He said, "everything is on the table," including both dividend boosts and increased buyback activity.
Halliburton continues to monitor the fallout from the Deepwater Horizon incident closely, Mr. McCollum said, "but it's not an issue that will preclude us from consideration of some of those options," and he suggested the analyst "stay tuned" for developments.


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STROUDSBURG — Emily Schlogl called everyone off when she saw Ema Sabovic's cross come into the box. There was no way the Pleasant Valley senior was missing out on this chance.
Schlogl scored with 55 seconds to go to lift the third-seeded Bears to a 2-1 victory over No. 2 Pocono Mountain East in the semifinals of the Mountain Valley Conference girls soccer playoffs at Ross-Stulgaitis Stadium on Tuesday.
Pleasant Valley (13-5-1) will play the winner of tonight's No. 1 Stroudsburg/No. 4 Pocono Mountain West matchup, for the championship at a site to be determined Saturday at 5:30 p.m.
The Bears are there thanks to a persistent offense that controlled much of the match with the Cardinals (13-4-1), who saw their 10-match winning streak end. PV outshot Pocono East 18-3, put 15 shots on goal and had five corners, but with Cards goalie Loren Fish turning in another standout performance with 13 saves the score was tied 1-1 with under a minute to play.
That all changed when Sabovic gained control along the end line, beat a PM East defender and sent a pass into the box. Schlogl knocked it down and lifted a shot into the middle of the net for the game winner.
Pleasant Valley was also great on defense.
The Cards had scored 38 goals in their previous 10 matches and 65 for the season. Pocono East, the defending MVC champion, did get on the board first Tuesday, with Alyssa Simeone scoring her 29th goal of the season in the 13th minute, but the Cards finished with just three shots.
Pleasant Valley 1-1 — 2
PM East 1-0 — 1
Goals — PV, Maria Cimino, Emily Schlogl; PME, Alyssa Simeone. Assists — PV, Ema Sabovic; PME, Kim Walter. Saves — PV, Janelle Pastrana 2; PME, Loren Fish 13. Shots — PV 18; PME 3. Corners — PV 5; PME 1.
Records — Pleasant Valley 13-5-1; PM East 13-4-1.
Location, ST | website.com


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Mendota Wildlife Area
Mendota waterfowl numbers have been above average for the early season. The average through the third weekend in November is 2.34 waterfowl/hunter compared to 1.56 a year ago. Green-winged teal numbers appear to be down with only 15 percent of the harvest to date compared to 21 perecent at the same time last year.
Unfortunately, Mendota Pool, the wildlife area water supply, was drained Nov. 15, and is expected to be down until the end of January. By mid-December the majority of the wildlife area may be ideal green-wing teal habitat, but without rainfall a large amount of the area may be mudflat by January.
Tulare-Pixley and Kern NWR's
Everything is flooded ahead of schedule, and habitat conditions look great for foraging waterfowl across the Tulare Basin. 20,000 birds estimated with the majority of the species being gadwall, shoveler, green wing, and cinnamon teal.
San Joaquin Valley- Los Banos
Areas are 95 percent flooded with optimal habitat conditions, though forage fields are not flooded at this time. Bird use is stable to increasing, with more day time use during non-shoot days. Watergrass fields are getting high use earlier than usual. Harvest is up over last year with better average's from hunters, and mallards are the number one bird in the bag. Water availability will be key to maintaining optimal habitat conditions throughout the season for foraging waterfowl.
Sacramento Valley
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's early November surveys reported more than 1 million ducks and 319,000 geese on the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex alone. This includes more than 577,000 pintails and 269,000 white-fronted geese.
The mid-October survey reported more than 412,000 white-fronts in the same area but the geese are spreading out as more harvested rice fields become available throughout the valley. Rice harvest was 2-4 weeks behind schedule due to a late spring and cool summer and many harvested fields are just now being flooded.
Large numbers of white-fronts are also present in District 10 on the east side of the valley. Wigeon, green-winged teal, and white goose numbers are increasing but we are still waiting on the bulk of those birds to arrive.
Hunter success was good in October but has been relatively poor in most of November, particularly on the east side of the valley. Expect that to change as more migrants and stormy weather arrive and birds start dispersing from the west side refuges. If the weather gives us some help and brings wind, rain, and fog, this should be a great hunting season.
San Francisco Bay
There are lots of pintail and shovelers at Eden Landing near Hayward in the South Bay. Quite a few teal, scaup, mallards, and ruddy ducks in the North San Francisco Bay, though canvasbacks haven't come in high numbers yet.
Find migration reports in your area


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Plantation Barbados (Grande Reserve) 5 Year Old Rum
Review: Plantation Barbados (Grande Reserve) 5 Year Old Rum 88.5/100
a review by Chip Dykstra (Aka Arctic Wolf)
Posted on July 28, 2011
The Plantation Barbados Grande Reserve 5 Year Old Rum is a Bajan rum blend which has been aged for five years in bourbon casks. The rum was transported from Barbados to France by Cognac Ferrand to be placed in used Cognac casks to enhance the rum before it was bottled as part of Cognac Ferrand's growing line-up of Plantation Rum.
Cognac Ferrand has a special relationship with a variety of Caribbean rum producers. This relationship is based upon the rum producer's need for quality oak casks to age their rum. Based upon this relationship, Cognac Ferrand is able to acquire certain old and unique batches of rum from various Caribbean sources, which they bring back to France and finish in their own warehouses and of course their own Cognac Casks.
I was given eight sample bottles, each 200 ml in size, which represent a good portion of the Plantation Rum line-up. The Plantation Barbados Grande Reserve is the third of these sample bottles which I have chosen to review here on my blog.
In the Bottle 4.5/5
All of the Plantation Rums arrive in a highly attractive clear glass bottle with a simple uncluttered label. The larger 750 ml bottles are wrapped in netting; however, the small 200 ml sample bottle I was given lacked this frill (see photo below). The bottle closure is a high density cork which is sure to give the consumer that nice satisfying 'pop' when it is first opened. I also should note that the label identifies the spirit as being bottled at 40 per cent alcohol by volume.
In the Glass 9/10
I poured myself a nice glass of the Plantation Barbados 5 Year Old Rum and brought it up to my nose. My initial impression was of a musty leathery aroma accented orange peel and a sweet caramel molasses. I gave the glass the customary tilt and swirl. The spirit deposited light sheen of rum onto the side of my glass, and I watched as the legs formed. They were of an average size and seemed to move at an average pace down the sides of the glass.
As the glass decanted, the leathery mustiness I had noticed initially evaporated into the breezes, and was replaced by a light smell of tarnished blue-green pennies. Perhaps a bit of seaside brine and kelp was rising in the air as well. The caramel molasses I noted earlier began to release baking spices into the air, and some charred aromas of coconut were lifting from the glass along with some banana and vanilla. I like how the complexity continued to build as the glass sat.
In the Mouth 54/60
The rum is much sweeter in the mouth than my nosing of the glass would suggest, as sweet caramel/molasses leads out onto the palate chased by sharp orange peel. That leathery mustiness has reappeared on the palate and I taste a delicate touch of seaside brine as well. Light baking spices (cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and vanilla) seem to evolve from the caramel as the glass breathes.
This evolution continues as caramel and honey begin to play with flavours of banana and orange peel; toasted almonds and charred coconut begin to bring an accents of marzipan and treacle to the glass; and somewhere in the currents of the flavours a hint of fermenting fruit bubbles up and brings in yet another dimension to consider. All in all I am very impressed with the five year old rum.
In the Throat 12/15
It is in the finish that I find my only hint of disappointment, as the exit is almost cloyingly sweet. Not even the hot spices that heat up the mouth can counter this effect.
The Afterburn 9/10
I continue to be delighted with the Plantation Rums from Cognac Ferrand. The Plantation 5 year Old Barbados Rum appears to be a step up from the previously reviewed Plantation Barbados 2000 (Old Reserve Rum). It carries a few more subtleties and a firmer impression of seaside brine. I also like how I am not being clobbered over the head with the Cognac enhancement. I can taste whispers of fermented fruit and perhaps a ghost of the cognac barrel, but these flavours stay in the background allowing the fine Barbados rum to shine through.
If you are interested in comparing more scores, here is a link to my other published Rum Reviews.
My Final Score is out of 100 and you may (loosely) interpret the score as follows:
0-25 A spirit with a rating this low would actually kill you.
26-49 Depending upon your fortitude you might actually survive this.
50 -59 You are safe to drink this…but you shouldn't.
60-69 Substandard swill which you may offer to people you do not want to see again.
70-74 Now we have a fair mixing rum or whisky. Accept this but make sure it is mixed into a cocktail.
75-79 You may begin to serve this to friends, again probably still cocktail territory.
80-84 We begin to enjoy this spirit neat or on the rocks. (I will still primarily mix cocktails)
85-89 Excellent for sipping or for mixing!
90-94 Definitely a primary sipping spirit, in fact you may want to hoard this for yourself.
95-97.5 The Cream of the Crop
98+ I haven't met this bottle yet…but I want to.
Very loosely we may put my scores into terms that you may be familiar with on a Gold, Silver, and Bronze medal scale as follows:
70 – 79.5 Bronze Medal (Recommended only as a mixer)
80 – 89.5 Silver Medal (Recommended for sipping and or a high quality mixer)
90 – 95 Gold Medal (Highly recommended for sipping and for sublime cocktails.)
95.5+ Platinum Award (Highest Recommendation)
14 Responses to "Plantation Barbados (Grande Reserve) 5 Year Old Rum"
December 29, 2012 at 11:38 pm
I am actually pleasantly surprised at how good this rum actually is. A friend of mine purchased a bottle for me as a gift for Christmas and I wasn't expecting a whole lot as my tastes tend to lean more towards Zacapa and Diplomatico Reserva exclusiva these days. Color me impressed!!! What a fantastic mixer rum for Rum and Cola, even on the rocks this was very palatable…..A very good "go to" rum for cocktails that I will be very sure to keep on my shelf from now on.
November 7, 2012 at 9:56 pm
This just recently came into the Liquor Despot by my apartment building (along with the Masterson 10 yr Rye and a few other products aimed at a more quality market) and I gave it a try tonight. I think I found it a little bit sweeter overall than you did, Chip, but regardless a fine buy for under $40. I suspect this will join rums like the Havana Club 7 or the Mt. Gay XO as go to "affordable" rums.
July 23, 2012 at 5:24 pm
Just purchased a bottle (Specs cash price of $17.49 plus tax) and am currently enjoying a nice Plantation Rum & Coke. I needed it after just being rear-ended (and not in a good way🙂 on my way home from work today.
It is very close to Tommie Bahama Golden Sun rum (one of my all time favorites) that has been discontinued. A nice, quality but not too expensive rum that mixes well and gives you a nice even alcohol buzz unlike some cheaper rums (you know what they are and when you drank them).
A solid B to B+ and maybe after another one, A-
Good review bro, well said.
Ski in TX
January 27, 2012 at 5:37 am
My Friend and I enjoy sipping Rum and watching Uconn Womens Basketball. We have tried well over 25 different Rums and PLANTATION BARBADOS (5 Year) is a great sipping rum and the Price $16.99 is even better.Definetly a good rum for new tasters.
December 20, 2011 at 1:22 pm
Thanks, John! I happened to find a liquor store (there are a lot of them up here) that carried it in West St. Paul. But more options are better!
Happy Holidays!
December 22, 2011 at 8:45 pm
Hello again Kevin,
just a tip, Surdyk's sells several highly regarded rums, they have a very impressive selection.
Only drawback, I live in Buffalo, where finding top quality rum is difficult, so I have to drive 40 miles to Minneapolis to buy! Excellent rum is worth the drive, though!
John Hill
December 23, 2011 at 7:35 am
Thanks John,
I will have to make the drive there. If I were to pick up a rum, is there one I should get? I am looking for a white rum to try in place of Bacardi but will try anything.
December 26, 2011 at 10:27 pm
I am not a big fan of white rums. The best I have had, though, is Clement Premiere Canne, good enough to be considered a sipping rum, with a lime or lemon twist. Excellent in cocktails. Surdyk's had on sale for $24.00 12/26/11. Flor De Cana Xtra Dry 4 year old ($14.50) is good for mixing, also.
Rums to try: "Best bang for buck"–Plantation 5 year old ($18.00) & Abuelo 7 year old ($20.00). Best I have ever had–Plantation XO 20th Anniversary. Other excellent rums–El Dorado 12 year old, Cruzan Single Barrel, Flor De Cana 12 & 18 year old. John Hill
December 29, 2011 at 2:06 pm
Thanks again, John and to you Chip for the great reviews! I should have mentioned I am looking for a mixing rum so will be checking out the Clement Premier Canne, but will put the others on my list to add to the collection.
So much to drink, so little time!
March 29, 2012 at 3:51 pm
Do you know of any liquor store in St. Paul that sells Pampero Aniversio rum? It comes in a leather pouch.
John Hill
- March 29, 2012 at 3:51 pm
- December 29, 2011 at 2:06 pm
- December 26, 2011 at 10:27 pm
- December 23, 2011 at 7:35 am
- December 22, 2011 at 8:45 pm
November 3, 2011 at 8:13 am
I first enjoyed this excellent rum in a daquiri (the classic version) at a liquor tasting sponsored by Ferrand at Martin's Wine Cellar in New Orleans and I have yet to find it equal at this price, $14 for 750 ml in NOLA! We promptly bought a bottle and shortly after that another. I am so glad to see that your review found it as pleasing it as much as I did. I just hope it doesn't cause the price to go up too much but maybe extends its distribution as I cannot find it in Minneapolis yet!
December 20, 2011 at 1:26 am
Surdyk's, in Northeast Minneapolis (Hennepin Ave. East and SE University) sells Plantation Barbados 5 year Old. I bought a bottle 12/17/11. They had it on sale for $15.99!
John Hill
- December 20, 2011 at 1:26 am


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Last week, President Obama announced he'd reveal his plan for job creation before a joint session of Congress at the same time as tomorrow night's Republican presidential debate. John Boehner wasn't happy about this and asked the President to push his speech back a night; a few hours later, Obama acquiesced. No big deal, right? Or as Jon Stewart put it on tonight's Daily Show, "non-crisis averted!"
That's probably why Stewart looked so dumbfounded as he then played clip after clip of cable news personalities—and, worse, members of the White House Press Corps—attempting to manufacture a giant conflict over what he perceived to be a non-issue. Video of the segment is above.


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small but mighty. Six chrome cubes make a minimalist statement with maximal magnetism, clinging multiple notes, hefty mail, photos and holiday cards to the fridge.
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set of six mighty chrome magnets.
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If you are not satisfied with your Stock furniture, rug or rug pad purchase, you must contact us within 7 days of delivery or pickup to arrange a return. The item must be returned within 30 days of delivery or pickup. The item will be inspected upon return, and a refund amount will be determined based on its condition. For furniture orders placed online, please call us at 800.606.6252. For orders placed through a store, please contact the store where the sale originated.
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Hotel Corona is situated in the city centre, near to the commercial and touristic area of Granada.
It is located close to banks, restaurants, coffee shops, tapas bars, entertainment and shopping streets. Congress Center is only 5 min walking.
The Hotel has an outdoor swimming pool (seasonal), garage, buffet and a la carte restaurant and convention centre....


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French President Francois Hollande, left, smiles as he welcomes head of the new Syrian National Coalition for Opposition and Revolutionary Forces Mouaz al-Khatib, right, prior to a meeting, at the Elysee Palace, in Paris, Saturday, Nov. 17, 2012. France has taken a leading role among Western countries in supporting Syria's rebels. On Tuesday, it became the first Western nation to formally recognize Syria's newly formed opposition coalition as the sole legitimate representative of the Syrian people. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)


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So as Justin started to explain, we took a trip to Arizona over Thanksgiving weekend. After our lovely roadside stops at the Desert Tower and such towns as Yuma, AZ (I cannot believe people live here, fyi), we finally found ourselves in Scottsdale.
Scottsdale is like a gigantic retirement home. Although beautiful, it is also one gigantic stripmall/Supermall after the next. It is also completely dead after 9pm. So, on our first night there, we ventured out to the "Town Center" which was an oversized partially outdoor Somerset. We ate at a place called Cowboy Chow and then moved on to find the most horrible thing I have ever seen:
Yes, that there is an Ohio State helmet, along with a Florida Gators helmet. Lest you forget--last year, these two teams played in the National Championship in the Fiesta Bowl IN Arizona. Which Michigan SHOULD have been in if they hadn't been sooo afraid of a rematch between OSU and UM. Anyway, I digress. How we stumbled across the Fiesta Bowl museum is beyond me, but needless to say, it was not a pleasant experience. And this year, we play the Gators in our new year's day bowl, which I'm sure will add up to yet another loss on Michigan's lovely 2007 resume.
The next day ,we headed off to Sedona, which is by far the most beautiful place I've ever seen. These pictures do it no justice. The colors were much more vibrant, deep reds and oranges that just aren't visible here. The map shows the "off-road" area around Sedona that we explored!
We took a PINK JEEP ride to get out to all these places (very masculine for Justin FYI). We climbed rocks and boulders and ventured to the backwoods. Ok, maybe not, since this is a giant tourist attraction....but still.
Please note that we are wearing boots, scarves, gloves, etc etc etc. It was NOT warm, contrary to popular belief. It was blistering cold and windy. And by cold I mean 50 degrees. So what if I'm from Michigan?
Overall, a glorious trip had by all. And, the firesky resort was beautiful. Here we are enjoying it.
--Guest writer Tara Adams because Justin is in Budapest Hungary and has no contact with the outside world, even to do his blog, so his lovely wife must take over all responsiblities for him
Justin (& his loving wife, Tara) roam the countryside recording their escapades using state-of-the-art photographic and geo-positioning equipment (thank you Sony). Destinations include but are not limited to: California, Chicago, Michigan and Arizona.
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Higher Ed ERP and Cloud
By User9147039-Oracle on Sep 17, 2013
The past couple of weeks have been a relative frenzy in the ordinarily mundane world of higher ed "administrative" IT or ERP. Most notable was the much-anticipated Workday announcement of an intention to build a SaaS Student Information System (Workday Student). This caught almost no one by surprise given that their partner institutions are talking and their recent hires into leadership roles telegraphed this rather overtly.
The topic of Cloud and SaaS in education IT is one that I've devoted considerable air time to, both on this blog as well as in our forum with a number of global education partners (our Industry Strategy Council, or ISC, that meets twice a year). Inevitably the conversation and discussion always seems to come back to a couple of key questions:
1) Will it lower costs?
2) Will anyone consume it if it's offered?
The attraction to SaaS applications in higher ed is almost always the allure of lowering costs associated with the acquisition, maintenance, upgrades, and management of an on-premise application. Further, many I talk to actually admit that they'd love to use the SaaS vendors upgrade schedule (which is the upgrade schedule all of its customers will be on, like it or not) as the justification for business process standardization and implementation of strict IT governance (i.e. thou shalt not customize). Meaning: We can't enforce the needed governance ourselves, so we need a SaaS solution to impose it on us, leveraging the justification of reduced costs.
There seems to be a perception that Oracle isn't part of the Cloud revolution in IT or has been "slow to adopt the cloud." I am astonished by this given the facts, but perception is often reality. But shouldn't we really be talking about, given the fundamental realities of higher ed institutions and their overall structure, SaaS is really workable in all cases? Brian Voss in his recent blog post "On the Future of Administrative Information Technology" comments that many administrative systems in higher ed are reaching their 10 or 20 year anniversaries and that commercial vendors of IT for higher ed are discontinuing support for older products, leading to a potential wave of replacements in the coming years. These same issues confront many commercial enterprises - what is different in my view is that higher ed has for the most part (and I am falling victim to something I generally despise - broad generalizations) been largely unable to contain costs and extract a great deal of value from admin IT because it lacks strong IT governance. SaaS WILL NOT solve this problem.
One of the many business transformation partners that my team and I have worked with over the years is a firm called the Hackett Group. For the winter meeting of the ISC I referenced earlier, representatives from Hackett in partnership with one of their clients (and ISC member) the University of Michigan, presented on the IT rationalization project they had embarked upon at Michigan and also generalized to the overall "world class" benchmark of higher ed vs. other commercial organizations that exhibited "world class" performance. What was clear in nearly every category was that while higher ed overall has done a reasonable job containing costs, it still spends a preponderance of its IT resources on largely "transactional" (vs. strategic) functions - even higher in fact that what is exhibited by public sector (government) IT organizations in the US.
There is no question that the Workday announcement for a SaaS SIS will garner a lot of attention, and in fact it will have a positive impact on us as strong competition always has on the industry. But I caution my colleagues, partners, customers, etc. not to get hung up on the shiny new object and lose sight of the real issue that has the greatest opportunity to enable higher ed organizations to realize value from strategic investments in IT: standardized infrastructure and systems simplification hold the key to IT truly becoming a strategic resource for the institution.


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New Fiscal Showdown Builds Over Debt Limit
By Michael R. Crittenden and Pedro Da costa
Republican lawmakers insisted Sunday that any increase in the nation's borrowing authority should have policy changes attached, a demand at odds with White House officials and Senate Democrats, who held firm in their position that Congress must pass a "clean" debt-limit increase.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R., Ky.), appearing on "Fox News Sunday," said it was "irresponsible" and "unreasonable" for President Barack Obama to call on Congress to raise the debt ceiling without being open to policy changes.
White House advisor Dan Pfeiffer countered that Republicans should "spare the country the drama" of another fiscal showdown like the one that led to a government shutdown in October.
"The American people should not have to pay the Republicans in Congress' ransom for doing their most basic function, which is paying the bills," Mr. Pfeiffer said on "Fox News Sunday."
Democrats and Republicans girding for another political fight over increasing the nation's debt limit do not have a lot of time to debate the issue. Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew, in a letter to Congress last week, said the U.S. government would exhaust its borrowing powers by late February without action by Congress.
The White House and Senate Democrats have repeatedly said they are not open to negotiating with Republicans on policy changes in return for increasing the debt ceiling. Mr. Pfeiffer confirmed that position Sunday and was echoed by top Democratic leaders.
"We don't want to risk the full faith and credit. We can debate all of these other issues at a different time and place," Sen. Charles Schumer (D., N.Y.) said on CBS's "Face the Nation."
Republicans lawmakers have already begun to consider what policy riders they could attach to a debt-ceiling increase to force negotiations. House Republicans leaders are mulling a number of discrete policy changes, including some to the 2010 health-care law, as their opening gambit in negotiations with Democrats. A decision on how to proceed is likely to come after a House GOP retreat in Maryland at the end of this week.
"It's worth noting, in the past the debt ceiling has been the most effective lever point for structural reform," Sen. Ted Cruz (R., Texas) said on "Face the Nation," insisting that "we shouldn't just write a blank check."
How far Republican leaders will push the issue remains an open question. Democrats are quick to point out that Republicans shouldered much of the blame for October's government shutdown, while GOP leaders are wary of distracting voters' attention away from the rocky rollout of the Affordable Care Act.
"We should not play Russian roulette with America's economy," Sen. Richard Durbin (D., Ill.) said on NBC's "Meet the Press" on Sunday.


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Phlebotomy Training Spartanburg SC
Phlebotomy is a relatively new field in the medical industry, in which one is supposed to collect blood from the vein by making an incision. This doesn't mean that it never existed; the only difference now is that earlier the job was done by the doctors themselves. But with the advancements in the medical field, doctors have more important jobs to perform, which requires a lot more time and experience.
This has led to the origin of phlebotomy and it is one of the fastest growing segments.
A phlebotomist supports nurses, medical assistants and doctors. His or her job is to collect blood from veins of a patient and on blood drives for testing, transfusion or research. They are also responsible for the verification of the patient's identity, labeling and storing the blood in appropriate manner. They can also take vital signs and conduct interviews with patients.
But one has to undergo proper training in order to be prepared for such a responsible job. During the training period students are taught various subjects which include human anatomy, various blood drawing techniques, taking care of patients during and after drawing of blood, their rights and confidentiality and first aid. They are taught to communicate with the patients and staff members effectively.
They are also taught about the proper needle technique, creating patient's report and keeping their record, explained about various medical equipments which also includes handling containers for collecting bio-hazardous waste and dermal puncture devices, syringes, bandages blood culture bottles etc.
At this point they have to show the right combination of their skill and sympathy. A phlebotomist must be able to work under pressure and be able to comfort the patients to collect blood samples more easily.
In Spartanburg SC, the training can last from 18 to 24 months depending on the program or the state. However, the longer programs are more valuable and can give a good start the reason behind it is that, it the trainee is more exposed to field and has more experience. Some institutes also provides online courses which means it can be attained from anywhere but the drawback is that only theory part is covered online. For the practical instructions one has be present physically in the institute. After the educational part is completed, one has to take an exam in order to receive the certification.
The salary can be anywhere between $28,000 to $35,000 per year depending on the experience.
Unlike other medical fields it has an advantage that one need not be called always in case of emergency, means one can say that it's a fixed time job.
The training is essential to gain a certificate to land a job in this field.


text:
South Terrebonne goes on lockdown after fight
Published: Thursday, October 11, 2012 at 2:47 p.m.
Last Modified: Thursday, October 11, 2012 at 2:47 p.m.
Several students got into a fight at South Terrebonne High School Thursday afternoon, and the school went on lockdown to keep things from escalating, officials said.
Three teens and two adult students were arrested, Sheriff Jerry Larpenter said. Two girls started the fight, and male students jumped in.
The girls, whose names are being withheld because of their ages, are charged with disturbing the peace by fighting. A boy is charged with battery on a school employee, Foret said.
Another student, Za'morion Robertson, 18, was shocked with a Taser when he struggled with a police officer assigned to patrol the school, authorities said. Robertson is charged with disturbing the peace, resisting an officer with violence and battery on a police officer.
Joshua Williams, 17, angered at learning of Robertson's arrest, smashed a window in the office, police said. He is charged with criminal damage to property.
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