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Social Security
Retirement Planning
Related Links
Discussion Boards
"Social security? Fahgeddaboutit! There'll be no Social Security by the time we need it. The system is broke, and it ain't gonna be fixed. It'll be all used up before you and I ever get there."
Do you really believe that? Many of those under the age of 50 do, and the younger the age, the more prevalent that belief. We Fools don't think so -- we know who votes and that our fearless leaders can count. We accept the fact that Social Security is here to stay, but we also recognize that the system will almost assuredly give future recipients less than it does today. Therefore, because it will continue to play an important part in how we plan for retirement, we seek to understand today's system and will closely watch how it evolves in the future. By doing so, we know we can plan for retirement with more precision than we could by ignoring it.
With few exceptions, wage earners today see a payroll deduction for FICA (Federal Insurance Contributions Act) that reduces each paycheck by 7.65%. Those who are self-employed see twice that shrinkage from their gross pay. These involuntary "contributions" are really taxes that go toward Social Security (6.2%) and Medicare (1.45%). We'll look at Medicare in Step 12. For now, let's concentrate on that part of your earnings that goes to Social Security. What does this "contribution" get you?
Basically, the taxes you pay for Social Security buy you three things: income in retirement, income for survivors, and income in case you become disabled before you are eligible to retire. You must work and pay into the system to be eligible to receive these benefits. Generally, to qualify for full benefits you need to work at least ten years. The size of the benefit is based on your earnings and the number of years you have paid into the system. You may receive retirement benefits on or after age 62, and the longer you wait to do so, the higher that income will be. Your spouse and, in some cases, your dependent children may also receive a benefit when you retire. If you die before or after retirement, a survivor's benefit may provide income to your spouse and dependent children depending on their age and work status. Become disabled and you, your spouse, and your dependent children may receive disability income based on your work record up to the point of disability.
In and of themselves, each of these benefits is a valuable asset to us all. They provide income protection to the family during and after our working careers. But do you know how much protection? Not unless you ask. And you should do so at least every three years. If you do, you will receive something called a Social Security Statement (SSS), which is a great tool in helping you determine how much you need to set aside today to supplement Social Security in retirement. Remember, the system was designed to provide for minimum income needs in retirement, not all. Your own savings must add to that income so you can retire with the living standard you desire.
If you don't know how much you can expect from Social Security, you may devote more than you need to retirement savings, thus needlessly decreasing amounts available for other areas of your life today. The SSS will show you how much you can expect to receive if you elect to retire at age 62, your normal retirement age (65 or older depending on birth date), or 70. Additionally, it will show you the earnings credited to your Social Security account for each year you have paid into the system; how much you would receive if you became disabled; and how much survivors would receive if you died. All that information is very Foolish data indeed on which to base your plans.
How do you get this data? Call the Social Security Administration at (800) 772-1213 and ask for Form SSA-7004, Request for Social Security Statement. When you get it in the mail, fill it out and return it. In about four weeks, you will have your SSS for review. In a hurry, you say? Then visit The Social Security Administration and make your request online. Either way, just do it. Then, when it arrives, look at the statement closely. See an error in your reported earnings? It happens, and it could affect your benefit. If there is an error, contact the SSA immediately to see how it can be corrected. Often, all that's required is for you to send in a copy of the Form W-2 you received for the year in question to get the error fixed. Sometimes it takes more effort to fix the mistake. Regardless, you want to ensure all data is correct, and the only way to do so is to take action now.
So remember: Smart Fools request SSS. Why not you, too? Now head to our Seventh Step of Foolish retirement planning.


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Bearing the Brunt
Published: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at 12:11 a.m.
Last Modified: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at 12:11 a.m.
The front-page article on Jan. 15 ["Obama: Debt Limit Fight End Imperils Benefits"] made my blood boil.
Barack Obama warned that Social Security checks and veterans' benefits will be delayed if the government borrowing authority is not raised.
Why doesn't he hold back the fat cats' checks in Congress and Washington? They can afford it. This is, in part, why we are in the shape we are in. All the money spent to pay all their salaries would surely put a dent in the economy.
Instead he picks on the poor people who depend on these checks to pay their bills. Social Security running out of money is a joke. Where did all the money go that we hard-working Americans put in? My husband worked hard all his life and put in to the system. He died a month after his 62nd birthday, never collecting the first check. There are thousands of people like that. All that money should be accounted for.
Obama says he is going to help the middle class, yet he is threatening to hold up money we need to survive.
Winter Haven
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subset: commoncrawl


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Shoe mogul Vince Camuto is perhaps most famous for co-founding famous women's designer footwear brand, Nine West, back in 1978. After selling Nine West in 1999, Camuto founded his namesake fashion label in 2005, a brand that goes far beyond shoes to include apparel, jewelry, fragrances and handbags. Aside from his eponymous label, Camuto is also the invisible man behind two of the world's biggest billion-dollar brands – Tory Burch and Jessica Simpson. Commonly known as "The Billion Dollar Fashion Man", this native New Yorker's signature remains footwear. From boots to pumps, wedges and sandals, Vince Camuto designs shoes that are both trendy and chic, utilizing the newest styles to create eye-catching, contemporary footwear. Completely flexible with dappled, gripped soles, Vince Camuto offers a higher standard than your regular high street brands. His use of butter-soft and rich grained leather, real suede and other luxurious fabrics has garnered Vince Camuto more than a few A-list fans, including Jessica Alba, Katie Holmes, Anne Hathaway and Adriana Lima.
Breathable fabrics to keep you dapper in the heat
Suiting, dress shirts, and more from heritage U.S. brands
Suits that any guy can wear—and every guy should
Mix and match for a look that's all your own—and won't break the bank


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Successor for Chairman
03.04.2013 - Swiss Basilea Ltd has proposed Martin Nicklasson as the successor to Chairman Werner Henrich, whose term will end in June.
Dr Nicklasson is a high-profile pharmaceutical business professional with longstanding operational and board experience. Born in 1955, the Swedish pharmacist is Associate Professor at the Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Uppsala. Dr Nicklasson has held numerous leadership and executive positions in commercial operations and drug development at AstraZeneca Plc. He was the President and CEO of Biovitrum AB and Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB and serves as a Board Member in a number of biotech companies in Europe and the US.http://www.european-biotechnology-news.com/people/bio-people/2013-01/martin-nicklasson.html


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It's nice to hear the new piano open up with a good Cup. Mike slips in a random note signal before going into an ok Foam. There are some rough parts in there. Guelah also has signals and was pretty dynamic. Reba had an ok start, a rough middle and a good jam. Hey, the first Sloth of the year! That explains the sloppiness and loose timing. Divided Sky also had strange spots. The first Tela of the year is nice to hear, but again not the tightest. Llama rocks as usual. IDK has a funny part where Trey and Fish explain their bet of $800 that Fish will not be late for the bus this tour. I wonder how long that lasted? IDK was unfinished for a bust-out of Catapult! Nicely done. Good solid Antelope to close really helps this set get up to average status. Definitely an off Mike night.
Jim is a promising opener for second set, very well played. Ice was good with a little added noise from Mike and Trey in the middle section. Coil was also well played. Tweezer was pretty standard. They must have felt Mike's pain as Trey brings them into I Walk the Line. Sparkle was a little off. YEM was ok, but there may have been equipment problems because Mike disappears for quite a while throwing the whole climax off. The jam at the end was ok segueing nicely into the Horse, which of course brings out the acoustic. The timing on Silent is still off. HYHU brings out Fish for the first Rosie of the year. They also need to relearn this one as Page and Mike have problems, even though it's a joke. Possum was a little off and rushed as the back end of this set is not as good as the front.
Adeline was unfinished due to Fish's poor singing. An average Grace tries to make up for it. Hell, even Tweeprise sounds a little off tonight. Not the greatest of encores.
This one is three stars to me; even though experimentation is a necessary part of this band, they just didn't quite pull it off on this really weak Mike night.


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Clifton Karhu Woodblock Print, Exhibition Invitation
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|Karhu printed these invitations for his shows at the Tolman Collection, the Tokyo gallery which has long represented him and his work. These were done in large numbers, about 800, in the late 1970's and early 1980's. This particular print reads "warau kado ni fuku kitaru," Happiness Sits on Laughter, a very Zen-like saying. This image is finely framed and is in good condition. Inside Mat Image Size: H.6.5 x W.24", Frame Size: H.9.5 x W.27.375". Clifton Karhu was born in Duluth, Minnesota in 1927. His early experience in Japan was as an American soldier, stationed at Sasebo from 1946 to 1948; then later as a missionary for the Lutheran Church from 1952 to 1958. In between, back home in the U.S., he attended the Minneapolis School of Art from 1950 to 1952. His home has long been Japan, specifically Kyoto, where he lived since 1963. After leaving missionary work and returning to the arts in 1958, he painted and sketched while living in Gifu Prefecture and had his first exhibition there in 1961. Woodblock printing has been his mainstay since moving to Kyoto, where he has built a strong reputation in the Japanese art community. He has also exhibited widely throughout Japan, the U.S. and Europe. He enjoys somewhat of a celebrity status in Kyoto, where he often described as more Japanese than a Japanese, often seen wearing kimono and living the life of a traditional Japanese artist. Inspiration for his works often come from his immediate surroundings, showing local architecture and landscapes; old houses, streets, temples, and the like. Considerable biographical and exhibit information is available on the web and a recent retrospective of his work, Karhu @ 77: A Tribute" was published by Norman Tolman of the Tolman Collection in Tokyo, who has long been a leading representative of Karhus work in Japan. His recent passing on March 24, 2007 was a great loss to the Japanese print world. A link to an obituary in the Minneapolis-St. Paul Star Tribune in his birth state of Minnesota can be found here: http://www.startribune.com/466/story/1083623.html


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Handgun, badge, other gear stolen from Spartanburg officers' cars
Published: Tuesday, January 22, 2013 at 4:31 p.m.
Last Modified: Tuesday, January 22, 2013 at 4:31 p.m.
Two law enforcement officers found themselves victims of car break-ins this week, with the thief or thieves taking a handgun, badge and other gear, according to the Spartanburg County Sheriff's Office.
Incident reports state the break-ins occurred on Corie Fields Court and Shallowford Drive in Boiling Springs.
The first break-in was reported on Shallowford Drive, and happened between 5 p.m. Sunday and 10 a.m. Monday, a report states.
Someone entered a locked Dodge Ram pickup and took a county-issued Glock from the center console, a black leather wallet containing a sergeant's badge and a holster belonging to a Spartanburg County sheriff's deputy, according to the report.
The deputy found tennis rackets he recognized as belonging to his neighbors in his yard, the report states.
The second incident occurred between 1:30 and 8:30 a.m. Monday, according to a report.
In that incident on Corie Fields Court, a tactical vest, police walkie talkie, police binoculars and a weapon laser light belonging to a Spartanburg Public Safety officer were taken from an unlocked, unmarked Chevrolet Impala.
No other car break-ins were reported in the area during the same time frame, Spartanburg County Sheriff's Lt. Tony Ivey said.
The incidents remain under investigation, Ivey said. Anyone with information about the thefts may call CrimeStoppers at 1-888-CRIMESC.
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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The Truth About Bad Bosses
It's Boss's Day, but for many workers, there's little cause for celebration.
There's the boss who's never there, the boss who tries to be everyone's best friend (and forgets to give her new BFFs any structure or direction), the boss who is perhaps not as smart as her underlings and rarely has a clue what's going on.
There's also the boss who's eccentric and upbeat, a whirlwind of energy who somehow never seems to find more than two minutes to talk to her direct reports. And then there's the "hurry up and wait" boss who orders workers to go full speed on projects–but then nothing ever comes to fruition.
Most of these characters have been around for the last 15 or 20 years, says Tom Gimbel, the chief executive of LaSalle Network, a Chicago staffing firm that worked with 1,500 hiring managers last year. Technology has brought with it more ways to be a bad boss. As an example, he cites the email-loving boss, who refuses to engage in face-to-face conversations or brainstorming, instead always communicating from behind a computer screen.
Jack Zenger, CEO of leadership consultancy Zenger Folkman, says the image that pops into many people's minds when they think "bad boss" is of Michael Scott, the fictional paper company regional manager played by Steve Carell in the former NBC sitcom, The Office.
Scott is inappropriate, inept and bumbling, yet most real-life bad bosses aren't nearly as entertaining, they just lack vision and direction, Zenger says. He adds that most bad bosses sin by omission, failing to articulate clearly what they want or failing to confront others when things are amiss. They're not good at collaborating with other people in the organization and they're not transparent with their groups.
The classic demanding boss, who shouts and makes ugly comments until he gets his way, has grown more rare as "command and control" leadership styles fall out of vogue and yelling becomes less acceptable at work, Zenger says. (Though maybe it's time for the blowhard boss's comeback: A recent survey from workforce management company Kronos Inc. found that 75% of employees would choose a demanding, high-achieving manager over one who is pleasant but ineffective.)
Zenger has collected data on about 50,000 managers worldwide and found that 18% score in the 10th percentile or below on at least one trait – think "integrity and honesty" or "collaboration and teamwork" – covered in questionnaires he administers to their direct reports, peers and supervisors. Scoring in these bottom rungs is a "red flag" that the manager is a bad boss, he says. And it's the employees who suffer.
"There's almost a direct-line coordination between the effectiveness of the leader and the overall employee engagement and satisfaction scores," he says.
Any upsides to having a bad boss? Zenger and Gimbel could only come up with one.
"A bad boss can help you become a great manager," Gimbel says, "because you learn how you don't want to be."


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When the weather heats up in August, finding a heat-beating, thirst-quenching beer becomes a priority. May we suggest a blonde?
Blonde ales are essentially an American invention, an inoffensive beer with no extremes in flavor whatsoever. Many early breweries made one as a starter beer -- a brew to woo customers, who weren't familiar with the newfangled microbrews. Blonde ales helped people understand that beer could have flavor without being heavy, and that there was more to beer than the low-calorie light lagers made by the big breweries.
As the market has matured and beer lovers have become more sophisticated and knowledgeable, you see fewer blonde ales. That's a shame. In many ways, these ales are perfect summer beers. They're light-bodied, with simple, clean and unassuming flavors. The best exhibit a nice balance that is neither too hoppy nor overly malty sweet, just middle-of-the-road. If they lean in any direction, it's toward the malt. Hops should be present, but always in the background, never too aggressive or dominating. A touch of fruitiness can be acceptable, but it should never overshadow the flavors, just lightly complement them. Simply put, these are smooth ales that are dry on the palate, crisp and thirst quenching.
In a sense, they were session beers before that was a concept. They're generally of average strength, between 4 and 5 percent alcohol by volume, although the percentage can be lower. But they're light and refreshing, exactly what you want on a hot August day.
Fun with blondes
The name -- blonde or, sometimes, golden ale -- is, of course, a nod to the beer's color. They're sometimes labeled English Summer Ales, American interpretations of Kölsch beers, milder versions of pale ales or, less often Canadian ales. (Although the latter tend to use adjuncts -- typically corn or rice -- and are essentially an ale version of the macro-brewed light lagers produced by the large beer companies.)
There are fewer examples of this style today, but happily, a number of breweries make a blonde -- or blondelike -- ale. Here are just a few to put on your summer shopping list.
In Northern California, try Beautiful Blonde by Knee Deep Brewing; Brette Davis Eyes, from Drake's Brewing; California Blonde Ale, from Eel River Brewing; Celt's Golden Ale by Moylan's; Liquid Sunshine Blonde Ale from Hoppy Brewing; Isabella Blonde, by Kern River Brewing; Poor Man's Blonde Style Ale, from BarrelHouse Brewing; South Park Blonde from 21st Amendment; and Happy Hops or Aud Blonde from Russian River.
These ales are brewed outside the Bay Area, but available here: Big Sky's Summer Honey Ale; Deschutes River Ale or Twilight Summer Ale; Ommegang's Gnomegang Blonde Ale; New Belgium Brewing's Spring Blonde or Skinny Dip; Redhook Blonde; and Rogue's Oregon Golden Ale.
I'm not sure if blondes actually do have more fun, but when it comes to blonde ales, you can certainly have fun with blondes, a blonde ale, at least.
As you may recall, we recently lost a leading member of the beer community, Mark "Fraggle" Martine, who co-founded Oakland's Beer Revolution. On Aug. 24, Oakland's Linden Street Brewery will host Fragglefest, a charity event and beer festival. Try beers from 20 local craft breweries; enjoy food truck fare from Hella Vegan Eats, Fist of Flour Pizza Co. and Souley Vegan; and listen to music performed by Fracas, No Limbs, United Defiance, The Divvys and Kicker. Tickets are $10. Find details at fragglefest.com.
Contact Jay R. Brooks at email@example.com. Read more at blogs.mercurynews.com/eat-drink-play.


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The party has officially begun at Augusta restaurants and nightclubs, with golf fans swinging by for some food and fun.
News 12's Kate Tillotson was out following the crowd Monday night.
After hours of remaining quiet on the golf course, golf fans were out in full force Monday night with lots of predictions and lots of energy.
"We come in, hang out, party," said David Gresham of Carrollton, Georgia.
"Oh I'm just excited about going out seeing the course and seeing all the players. It's gonna be a great day tomorrow. We're excited about it," said Lou Patten of Cleveland, Tennessee.
The excitement is drawing fans from far and wide - including Al Graf from Ohio. Al had a rough day after being kicked off the course for having a cell phone.
"I'm guilty," Al told us.
"So, security was on you in a flash?" we asked.
"Security was outstanding. I barely got it up and the sun reflected off it," Al said.
"He swept down on him like a Navy Seal. It was a thing of beauty, I gotta tell ya," said.
Kent Hamilton was out Monday night as well. Kent is the father of Todd Hamilton, the British Open champ also playing this week.
"Todd has not played very well this year, but as far as golf is concerned you can turn around tomorrow...and it can just turn around in a day's time," Kent said.
We know who Kent's favorite is...but what about other predictions?
"Jose Maria Olazabal," said one fan emphatically.
"Phil Mickelson, because I'm from Atlanta and he dominated in Atlanta last week," said Paul Mulkey of Dallas, Texas.
Hooters was definitely rockin' Monday night, as was downtown Augusta.
The fun continues all week long, with the Drive for Show, Rock Fore Dough concert Tuesday night. It's hosted by First Tee.


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Beaver Creek is hosting "Halloween in July" Thursday.
"Halloween is just too much fun to do once a year," said Brian Hall with the Beaver Creek Children's Theatre.
Kids can break out their Halloween costumes and celebrate Halloween," Hall said.
A special mask-making workshop starts at 9:30 a.m. Thursday at the Beaver Creek Children's Museum. Or you can bring your own, Hall said.
A costume parade is scheduled for 10:30 a.m., followed by a special Halloween-themed show by the Beaver Creek Children's Theatre Company. It's part of the troupe's 26th year of performances, Hall said.
There will be a special Halloween cake created by the Rimini Gelato and Chocolate Shop in Beaver Creek for the first 100 costumed kids.
For more information go to www.beavercreekkids.com, or call Blue Creek Productions at 970-926-5855.


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- Mes Que Un Club!
- Currently Unavailable
Barcelona's Authentic Home Jersey 13/14 for the 13/14 season.
Barcelona's traditional red and blue stripes return with a unique, modern fade graphic on the sleeves. In theory this design represents the idea that Barca makes it look easy on the field, but the team's skill on the field is very complex. The yellow collar honors the Catalan flag, which can also be found at the back collar.
Ground-breaking Dri-FIT microfiber fabric for rapid moisture absorption in sweat-intensive zones.
Closed-hole mesh sleeves and side panels for increased ventilation.
Open-hole mesh lower waist for cooling and reduced bulk.
Lightweight breathable bonded Barcelona team badge and Nike Swoosh logo reduce bulk.
Flat-locked seams are bonded for maximum strength and chafe-free comfort.
Recycled polyester.
NOTE: Tight fit, which means any jersey classified as Authentic will run small. The authentic is the actual piece that is worn on field. The authentic uses a performance cut for a snug fit. It also has a bonded crest. The authentic also features upgraded materials. The upgraded materials on the authentic result in a lighter weight.
Ya están aquí los nuevos uniformes del Barcelona y los catalanes lucen mejor que nunca. La camiseta de local viene con las clásicas franjas verticales, pero estilizadas, y ha sido hecha con tela de micro fibra Dri-FIT que absorbe más rápidamente la humedad


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Marin: Wealthy in Wine
Post by Chuck Hayward | June 13th, 2011
Major wine tastings usually follow one of two basic formats. One focuses on a single variety, as with ZAP or the upcoming Pinot Days. The other centers on geography, like those hosted by the Wines of Spain or the Sonoma County Vintners Association tasting to be held in San Francisco in July. The problem with some of these bigger geography-based events (the Sonoma tasting will cover 12 different subregions) is that there is so much to take in, everything runs together and wines start blending into each other.
That was not the case with 7th Annual Marin County Wine Celebration—one of the more unique tastings I've had the fortune to attend. In order to raise funds for the Marin Agricultural Land Trust (MALT), an organization dedicated to preserving land for agricultural purposes in the county, an assortment of pinot noirs (and a rare white here and there) were poured by 14 wineries. Most were fairly new with a few pouring their first-ever efforts. To witness the gradual progress being made in this small growing region is truly exciting.
While Marin County wines are newcomers to the current wine scene, the area itself boasts a significant history, largely forgotten until the latest plantings began to take root. Though it was very likely that Spanish settlers planted grapes when they founded the mission in San Rafael in the early 1800s, grape growing really gained momentum in the late 1800s. Back then, Escalle Winery, where the tasting was held in Larkspur, was a frequent tourist destination for San Franciscans on weekend getaways of wine drinking and picnics in the estate's gardens. Other vineyards were located in San Rafael and Fairfax on hills along today's "Golden Mile." (more…)


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- Dec 23:
- With 'the Jungle' closed, San Jose is trying to keep other homeless camps from replacing it
- Dec 5:
- Cleanup of 'the Jungle' encampment continues after the eviction of the homeless
- Dec 4:
- Mercury News editorial: 'Jungle' residents still need city, county help
- The Jungle: San Jose shuts notorious homeless encampment
- Jul 18:
- San Jose: Cops make arrests during targeted patrol of 'The Jungle' homeless encampment
- Nov 22:
- San Jose-Santa Clara County homeless numbers among highest in nation
- Documents: Homeless in the U.S., 2013
- Jun 1:
- Inside San Jose's largest homeless encampment, the Jungle
SAN JOSE -- In a move that could cost San Jose thousands of dollars in fines and lead to punitive cleanup orders, state wildlife officials have filed an environmental complaint against the city, claiming it's violating pollution laws for failing to adequately clean up homeless encampments along Coyote Creek, one of Silicon Valley's most troubled waterways.
The action by the State Department of Fish and Wildlife not only escalates the homeless issue politically, it also means state water regulators will investigate whether trash, human waste and other refuse from homeless encampments -- already a recognized public nuisance -- causes ecological damage similar to a factory dumping chemicals into local water channels.
"Basically what it comes down to," said Fish and Wildlife Lt. Byron Jones, who filed the complaint Wednesday with the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board, "is they accept the encampments, they feel no sense of urgency to remove them, nor have they ever. It's always been about the next cleanup. It's never been about ending the practice of illegally camping and being in proximity to water."
Although the department previously has taken on government agencies like Caltrans, Jones said, this is the first time guardians of the state's wildlife have pursued a California city for essentially allowing the homeless to create a waterborne pollution threat to fish in the streams and, by implication, to humans who come into contact with the water.
Jones -- a retired 22-year veteran of the San Jose Police Department -- spent the past two years directing the efforts of local Fish and Wildlife wardens to remove homeless encampments from Coyote and Los Gatos creeks and the Guadalupe River. His complaint charges that city administrators and police "have refused to remove the encampments and protect the water."
San Jose City Attorney Rick Doyle said the problem is not new. He recalled encampment cleanups during the 1990s, when the city had more financial wherewithal to deal with the squalor, that didn't prevent the county's most dispossessed citizens from returning to the water's edge.
"I know people would like us to move faster, but given the finite resources, I think we're doing what we can at this point," Doyle said. "I wouldn't agree that we are allowing this. We do have a coordinated effort with the water district, so it's not as if we're not doing anything. But unfortunately, it's a larger problem than we have resources to meet immediately."
Environmentalists called the move significant.
"It's a long term intractable social justice issue that has not been brought to an environmental enforcement action in this way before," said Jason Flanders, program director at San Francisco Baykeeper, an environmental group that monitors the health of local waterways. "So it's an important gesture."
State water pollution regulators said they will examine the case carefully.
"It is a big deal," said Bruce Wolfe, executive director of the Regional Water Quality Control Board. "The Clean Water Act requires any type of discharge into the creek or bay needs a permit. We're the agency that issues the permits. When it's identified that there's an unpermitted discharge, that's considered a violation of the Clean Water Act."
In previous cases of industrial pollution, fines have reached as high as $10,000 a day, though Wolfe indicated that drawing a direct line between a city's lax oversight of homeless encampments and permitting illegal toxic discharges might be difficult.
"I welcome the opportunity to see if we can use this as a way to clarify that this is significant," he said, "and that you can't just say out of sight, out of mind. This may be a way to trigger looking at homeless encampments as a source of pollution that we need to better address."
In an interview, Jones also implicated the Santa Clara Valley Water District as responsible for failing to fulfill its obligation as custodian of the creeks and streams it owns.
In January, the water district released a report showing that it and the city spent $275,542 last year and removed 2,011 cubic yards of debris from homeless encampments along creeks and rivers in Santa Clara County.
The two agencies, who have a joint agreement to keep working on cleanups at least through 2018, have heard an increasing chorus of public complaints in recent years as San Jose -- which has the fifth-largest number of homeless people of any U.S. city -- has struggled with homelessness amid the recession and sky-high housing prices.
"It's a very complex issue. Our actions have been to collaborate with all the agencies involved in a way that's more than just a Band Aid," said Marty Grimes, a water district spokesman.
But Jones, the Fish and Wildlife warden, said not nearly enough has been done.
"You build a granny unit on the back of your house that doesn't meet city code, they'll red tag and make you tear it down," he said. "But they'll allow 50 or 100 people in encampments to sit right next to a river without any facilities and never lift a finger to do anything about it."
Some environmentalists who have worked years to restore the health of Silicon Valley creeks agreed the city, the water district and the regional water board need to do more.
"I feel very bad for the homeless people that they are stuck there," said Mondy Lariz, director of the Santa Clara County Creeks Coalition. "But they are damaging the creek and the ecosystem. Something needs to be done."
Contact Bruce Newman at 408-920-5004. Follow him at twitter.com/BruceNewmanTwit


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Game of Thrones is a site for the HBO-series based on George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire.
New to the series? Read our spoiler-free review of A Game of Thrones.
Read our Privacy Policy.
A young slave with the blonde hair and blue eyes common to those from the Free City of Lys, Doreah was picked out as a slave in a pleasure house to teach Daenerys the arts of love.
The actress for the role is 30 years old, certainly older than the character in question. She is not a natural blonde, but it seems possible her hair will be dyed (or a wig used in its stead).
The Westeros network consists of several different sites, including a forum and a wiki, for all your A Song of Ice and Fire needs.


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Location: Screwworm Research
Project Number: 3094-32000-040-02
Start Date: Oct 01, 2012
End Date: Sep 30, 2017
The project has advanced to the stage where evaluations of female conditionallethal vectors have been initiated in the Screwworm Eradication Program's facility at Pacora, Panama. This agreement will be used to develop a second vector system as a contingency in the event the current vectors do not meet the Program's needs. 1. Develop tetracycline-repressible female lethal conditional lethal cloning vector based on improved piggybac transposable element/helper system, C. hominivorax transformer sex-specific splicing intron, tTAV coding region, and tetO operon/promoter. (a) Using an available C. hominivorax expressed gene database, optimize codons in the tTAV to reflect C. hominivorax codon usage. (b) Provide the transformer and doublesex genes from Lucilia cuprina and isolate the transformer and doublesex genes from C. hominivorax. (c) Create new candidate female-lethal vector using the improved piggybac transposable element/helper system, optimized tTAV coding region and C. hominivorax or L. cuprina transformer intron. 2. Evaluate the new vector through transformation experiments in the secondary screwworm Cochliomyia macellaria.


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Game of Thrones is a site for the HBO-series based on George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire.
New to the series? Read our spoiler-free review of A Game of Thrones.
Read our Privacy Policy.
The only surviving son of the Mad King Aerys, as a little boy Viserys and his pregnant mother were spirited away from King's Landing before the fall of the Targaryen dynasty. His mother died giving birth to his sister, Daenerys. Since then, Viserys and his sister have lived in exile, and Viserys has become known as the Beggar King because of their poverty as they move from Free City to Free City, trying to find someone who will aid him in retaking the Iron Throne. A thin young man, Viserys has the unnatural looks of the Targaryens, but he has lived too long in dread and privation; he has a notorious temper, and often abuses his sister.
The Westeros network consists of several different sites, including a forum and a wiki, for all your A Song of Ice and Fire needs.


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An epic, nice, funny, handsome boy who is epic
girl: " im so excited i met a harvey last night"
other girl:" LUCKYYYYYYYYYYY"
other girl:" LUCKYYYYYYYYYYY"
by urbanDICtionary November 24, 2012
Trending Now
Can you define these popular missing words?
Top Definition
To have a visible and quite noticeable semi-erection when in public.
My boyfriend was walking around my house infront of my family with a Harvey.
by Carl Watt April 19, 2006
Harvey'are gorgeous boys, loved by all, great company and support for their mummies. lots fo friends. boistrious, strong and independant.
Harvey Moon and Harvey wallbanger!
by littlepeach February 04, 2010
1. The ultimate thing a person can be e.g. sick cool peng. 2. Better in every way than someone else.
1. e.g. You are bare Harvey
2. You are so much more Harvey than him/her
2. You are so much more Harvey than him/her
by James Teabro October 02, 2006
a cool motherfucker, 100% real nigga, fucks shit up.
yo dude, you see that guy at the party last night? he was going harvey!
by HRVAY November 18, 2012
The coolest guy alive, looks gorgeous and is so much better than everyone else, good at Motorsport, and can build cars, not the best academically but will find it easier approaching College, get brilliant grades and succeed in life
Harvey is amazing
by Lillith-h152 January 17, 2013
Harvey's is a fast food restaurant chain that operates in Canada, with locations concentrated in southern and eastern Ontario, southern Quebec, the Maritimes, and urban Alberta. It serves hamburgers, hot dogs, french fries, onion rings, and other traditional fast food fare. The chain is owned by Cara Operations.
Harvey's logo resembles a hamburger with the word "Harvey's" in between.
by Caitlin13579 March 20, 2008


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WASHINGTON (December 10, 2012)--The Republican National Committee is launching an independent inquiry into what worked in the 2012 election and what didn't.
On Monday RNC chairman Reince Priebus rolled out his effort, called the Growth and Opportunity Project, to look at how GOP nominee Mitt Romney came up short against President Barack Obama and what steps the party can take going forward.
Priebus is asking five party leaders to talk with RNC members, activists and donors about how to solve the GOP's problems.
Republicans had the biggest midterm gain in 2010's elections since 1938 but two years later fell short in claiming the White House.
In addition to fundraising, the outside effort will look at demographic shifts and campaign tactics with an eye on upcoming elections.


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DETROIT --Gregor Blanco had said his World Series goal was to make a contribution "with my glove or with my bat."
Saturday, he did both.
Blanco delivered a run-scoring triple, scored the Giants' other run and made yet another sensational catch in the Game 3 victory.
"A game like this can go either way, and we got it done,'' Manager Bruce Bochy said. "Blanco had that huge hit and he played well defensively."
No home runs were hit for the second game in a row -- that hadn't happened since the 1996 Series -- but Blanco came closest when he blastied a ball to deep right-center field off Anibal Sanchez with one out and Hunter Pence at third base in the second inning.
Blanco's second triple of the postseason provided a 1-0 lead, which has looked insurmountable lately: The Giants are 9-1 in the postseason when scoring first.
After starting things, Blanco also helped finish them with a stellar catch to start the bottom of the ninth. Jhonny Peralta led off by hitting a deep fly ball down the left-field line. The ball tailed toward foul-territory before Blanco snared it just before running into the wall.
"I knew it was big to be able to get the first out. That's huge,'' Blanco said. "I think the Tigers have a great offense and they can change the game just like that."
"I'm humbled that Hank Aaron knows who I am," Posey said while sharing a stage with Aaron during a pregame ceremony. "Growing up in Georgia, he's a legend everywhere -- but even more so there."
Established in 1999, the Hank Aaron Award goes annually to the most outstanding offensive performer in each league. Detroit's Miguel Cabrera was the American League winner.
Posey led the majors with a .336 average and hit 24 home runs with 103 RBIs.
"You know how last year when you got hurt and everybody said, 'Is he going to come back?' " Aaron said. "You not only came back, but you won the batting crown and led your team to the World Series. "
The Hank Aaron Award is determined by a combination of a fan vote on MLB.com and a panel of Hall of Famers.
Sandoval is just two shy of the major league postseason record of 25 hits shared by Marquis Grissom (1995 Braves), Darin Erstad (2002 Angels) and David Freese (2011 Cardinals).
In 15 games this postseason, Sandoval is 23 for 61 with five doubles, six homers and 13 RBI.
With that caveat out of the way, he promptly heaped praise on Giants manager Bruce Bochy. Leyland's ode served as an anniversary toast of sorts: The Giants hired Bochy six years earlier, on Oct. 27, 2006.
"He's everything that's good about baseball managers," Leyland said before the game. "He does it the right way. You never hear Bruce Bochy boasting about himself or anything like that. He's terrific."
Bochy got just one at-bat, when manager Dick Williams summoned him to pinch hit for Bobby Brown with one out in the ninth inning of Game 5.
Bochy delivered a single to left off Willie Hernandez.
"What a thrill for any player when you get into the World Series for the first time," Bochy recalled Saturday.
Also, LaVelle E. Neal III of the Minneapolis Star Tribune was elected vice president, putting him in line to become the association's first black president.
Staff writer Alex Pavlovic contributed to this report.


text: Feeling the cold this winter? So is your plumbing, and it, along with your water heater, has to work harder to compensate. But it doesn't have to be that way if you give it a helping hand with some insulation, so if you haven't insulated your plumbing yet, get to it: wrapping your plumbing and hot water heater isn't expensive, doesn't take long, and will save you big money on energy costs this winter. See full article.


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A trusted, familiar face has returned to Epic Games.
We are pleased to share that Paul Meegan is Epic's new vice president of product development.
Paul's name should ring a bell for those working in the games business. Back in 1997, he founded Sinister Games just down the street from Epic. Ubisoft's purchase of Sinister in 2000 led Paul to Ubisoft Montreal, where he oversaw the inception of Splinter Cell, Rainbow Six 3: Raven Shield, Prince of Persia: Sands of Time and Myst III: Exile, among other games.
After two years building Jaleco's publishing business, Paul worked on the Rayman, Splinter Cell, Ghost Recon and Rainbow Six franchises at Ubisoft Shanghai. In 2006, he moved on to establish Epic Games China.
Over the course of the next four years, Paul helped Epic Games China – which now operates as Yingpei Games – establish a successful on-the-ground Unreal Engine licensing business and develop the Atlas MMO backend technology framework for licensees. In addition, the company quickly became a leading, high-quality content outsourcing provider and also created original IP for the Chinese games market.
Paul comes to Epic headquarters in Cary, NC after spending two years as president of LucasArts, where he refined corporate, publishing and technological strategy across the company's award-winning franchises. One of Paul's proudest moments was LucasArts' E3 2012 unveiling of the Unreal Engine 3-powered Star Wars: 1313, which won 31 nominations and 10 awards, including the Game Critics Award for Special Commendation in Graphics in addition to four Best of Show awards.
Paul is now working with Epic's executive team and talented developers on all of our latest projects.
"I'm really happy to be back in the Epic family and working with some of the best developers in the industry," said Paul. "Epic has demonstrated success in AAA PC and console games, mobile entertainment and the engine technology business. Epic is well-positioned to grow and thrive in the years ahead. The company is stepping up its game across the board, and I'm honored to be a part of that process."
"Epic's business has evolved incredibly over the past two decades, and throughout that time, our hiring philosophy has remained constant: 'hire the best and the brightest,'" said Mike Capps, president of Epic. "Paul's been a friend of the Epic family for years, and we're delighted to have him join the team. His experience and leadership will have a huge impact on our mission to deliver great games and great technology."
We are thrilled to have Paul here. Please feel free to welcome him in the comments!


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UPDATE: "The Flash" Hasn't Cast Savitar, Says Berlanti
TV, Comic Books
Comic Books
Comic Books
TV, Comic Books
The Buy Pile
The Buy Pile
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The Buy Pile
Comics Should be Good
Comics Should be Good
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Robot 6
Comics Should be Good
Aug 24, 05:01am
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Laval, QC CA
Early on my mom came up with the plan to introduce me to reading via comics. Her plan worked and gave me both a lifelong love of reading and comics. The earliest comics I remember were some Spider-Man stories where he fought the Kingpin and an issue of Marvel's "Star Wars" where Darth Vader battled a cyborg. My early comic habit got a regular fix whenever we'd take the Ohio Turnpike to visit my grandparents in Pennsylvania. We'd stop at a rest stop and I'd get a three pack of mostly Gold Key books like "Grimm's Ghost Stories" or reprints of "Turk: Son of Stone."
In the '80s I started collecting super hero books on a regular basis with "Thing" #24, where he battled the Rhino. From there I picked up a ton of Marvel books. Several years later I was introduced to the DC Universe via books like "Batman: The Killing Joke" and "Suicide Squad." Later my tastes branched out as I discovered companies like Dark Horse and DC's Vertigo imprint. Currently I'm a huge fan of all forms of genre comics: super hero, crime, action, horror, science fiction and fantasy
When I'm not writing for CBR I'm usually toiling away at the public library I work at or working on book reviews or other pop culture related ramblings at my blog.
FIRST COMIC: "Amazing Spider-Man" & "Star Wars"
FAVORITE CHARACTER: Spider-Man, Captain America, The Thing and Luke Cage
Showing results 1357-1376 of 1986
With "Dark Avengers" #1 in stores now, CBR News speaks with writer Brian Michael Bendis about the key Dark Reign title and what readers can expect from the series as it goes forward.
"Captain Britain & MI13" kicks off the new storyline "Vampire State" in next month's issue #10, and CBR News speaks with series wrtier Paul Cornell about Count Dracula's attempt to conquer the United Kingdom.
CBR chats with "Uncanny X-Men Annual" #2 writer Matt Fraction about what Norman Osborn's Dark Reign and Emma Frost's past interactions with the Cabal mean for Marvel's mutant population.
Doctor Doom is more dangerous when he takes charge of Marvel's vilest villains in "Doctor Doom and the Masters of Evil." We spoke with writer Paul Tobin about the new miniseries.
In this month's "Punisher: Frank Castle" #66, the titular vigilante heads to Philadelphia, where he's forced into a lethal race against time. CBR News spoke with writer Duane Swierczynski about "Six Hours to Kill."
Darkhawk begins in February a journey that will lead to a larger cosmic destiny and a major role in the upcoming War of Kings event. CBR News spoke with writer C.B. Cebulski about "War of Kings: Darkhawk."
He meets Barack Obama in this week's "Amazing Spider-Man" #583, and in the coming weeks Spider-Man will tangle with Wolverine, the Fantastic Four and Anti-Venom. We spoke with writer Dan Slott about all things Spidey.
In our latest look at Marvel's ongoing Dark Reign saga, CBR speaks with "Agents of Atlas" writer Jeff Parker to find out what the villainous Norman Osborn wants from the fan-fave heroes in their new ongoing series begins.
CBR talks with "Thunderbolts" writer Andy Diggle about what readers can expect now that the team has become Norman Osborn's clandestine kill-squad, and we also preview exclusive artwork by Roberto De la Torre!
In our latest installment of THE OSBORN SUPREMACY, CBR News asks "Black Panther" writer Reginald Hudlin for some hints about what Norman Osborn's Dark Reign means for his title character and the nation of Wakanda.
"Avengers: The Initiative #20, co-writer Dan Slott's final issue on the series, shipped to comic shops January 2nd. CBR News spoke with him about the issue and his experiences working on the series.
In March's "New Avengers: The Reunion," Ronin reconnects with his wife Mockingbird, who was until recently dead. We spoke with writer Jim McCann and editor Jeanine Schaefer about the four-issue miniseries.
Marvel's "Punisher War Journal" series comes to a close with January's issue #26, and CBR News speaks with artist Andy MacDonald about his work on the book's final issue.
In this first part of a new feature on Marvel's Dark Reign saga, CBR speaks with "Invincible Iron Man" writer Matt Fraction about how his series will be affected by Norman Osborn's power grab in the Marvel Universe.
In this week's "Wolverine: Origins" #31, Logan and his estranged son, Daken, join forces to hunt for their mutual arch-enemy, Romulus. CBR News spoke with writer Daniel Way about that and future "Origins" storylines.
In this week's new one-shot, "Captain America Theater of War: America First!", writer/artist Howard Chaykin takes readers back in time with a tale that stars the Communist hunting Cap of the 1950s.
Beware the full moon in January, because Marvel's most famous werewolf is back courtesy of MAX Comics and Duane Swierczynski. We spoke with the writer about the character that introduced him to comics.
In stores now is "Uncanny X-Men" #505, the second issue of Terry Dodson's first arc of the popular Marvel title. We spoke with the artist about his work on the book, his collaboration with Matt Fraction, and his artistic process.
The Merc with a Mouth tangles with Norman Osborn's new team of operatives in "Magnum Opus," a crossover between "Deadpool" and "Thunderbolts." We spoke with Daniel Way about the story. Also, Bob.
What happens when a supervillain is forced to do good? Ed Brubaker & Sean Phillips answer that question in "Incognito," a five-issue miniseries from Icon. CBR News spoke with Brubaker about the project.
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Holiday Types
Holiday TypesKE Adventure Travel offer holidays with a difference, with packages to suit everyone from family groups to seasoned explorers. Whether you want to climb Kilimanjaro, trek the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or cycle across the Tibetan plateau, we can make it happen.
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Our School Expeditions programme presents a worldwide collection of adventurous and educational itineraries, each of which has been devised with school groups and students in mind.
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Discover the unique wildlife of the Arctic and Antarctica, perhaps the last pristine and true wilderness left on our planet
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DestinationsA holiday with KE Adventure Travel will expose you to the world's most amazing landscapes and cultures and allow you to get under the skin of your chosen destination! With over 400 adventure holidays to more than 80 countries on offer, where will you choose next?
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About UsWith more than three decades of worldwide experience, KE Adventure Travel is one of the world's most respected adventure tour operators. Proudly independent and with a team of some of the most travelled staff in the industry you can always find someone to talk to who has actually been on your chosen trip.
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Holiday Overview
Holiday Overview
- A community project day at a local school in Darjeeling
- Visit Darjeeling, Pelling and Kalimpong
- Spectacular views of Kangchenjunga, Makalu, Everest and Lhotse
- Visit the tea plantations in Darjeeling
A varied and challenging School Adventure to the Indian region of Sikkim and its famous Singalila Ridge. In common with the neighbouring countries of Nepal and Bhutan, the landscape of this northerly projection of India is extremely varied: ranging from intensively farmed valleys in the south, through a higher alpine environment, to the high Himalayan peaks in the north of the territory. This part of India is one of the least-visited of all the Himalayan lands and remains pristine and unspoiled. It receives a great deal of rainfall during the summer monsoon and boasts particularly lush and varied vegetation, especially at lower altitudes. Sikkim is also culturally diverse, with Tibetan, Mongolian (Lepcha) and Indian peoples intermixed with immigrant Nepalese. Buddhism is one of the most important religions and there is the opportunity to visit several important Buddhist monasteries during the course of the trip. The jewel in Sikkim's crown is surely Kangchenjunga (8586m.), the world's third highest peak, which lies on the western edge of the state. The trekking element of this trip is the splendid 7-day walk along the famous Singalila Ridge, a prominent spur of high ground that forms the border between India and Nepal. The trek along this ridge is renowned as being one of the most scenically rewarding in the entire Himalaya, with views of Kangchenjunga, Makalu, Everest, Lhotse and a host of other peaks in the eastern Himalaya. With visits to the fascinating Indian towns of Darjeeling and Kalimpong and with the opportunity to take part in a community project, this is an excellent adventure fopr any school. This tried and tested KE Schools itinerary can be adjusted to better fit the needs of your group - please call and speak to a KE School Groups Coordinator or email firstname.lastname@example.com
Is this holiday for you?
This is a popular short trek, combined with a tour of some of the area's important towns, including Darjeeling, Pelling and Kalimpong. The trekking conditions are relatively easy, following good trails at all times. A jeep road runs beside our route for the first two days of the walk on the Singalila Ridge, and we will be following this, with numerous stepped sections which cut off the largest of the zig-zags taken by the jeep track. The altitudes attained on this trip are not extreme and, having spent a couple of days in Darjeeling, the group will already be reasonably well acclimatised prior to setting off on trek. We recommended a minimum age of 14 yrs for this trip.
Brief ItineraryView in full
- Meet at the group hotel in Delhi. Transfers from Delhi Airport are provided.
- Fly to Bagdogra and drive to the former British Raj hillstation of Darjeeling (2500m).
- A free day for sightseeing or to take part in a Community project. Overnight in Darjeeling.
- Drive to Dhodray and trek towards the crest of the Singalila Ridge. Overnight at Tonglu (2900m).
- Trek via a tea stop at the Nepalese village of Jaubari to Kalpokhari (3024m).
- Follow the ridge-top trail to Sandakphu (3636m). Afternoon free to relax and enjoy the view.
- Up early for the sunrise on Kangchenjunga. Then, trek on the broad ridge to Sabargram (3425m).
- Trek to Singalila Peak (3695m). Return to Phalut and descend to Samadeen Village.
- Downhill through farmland to the Siri Khola. Then continue via Maneydhara to Rimbik.
- Drive to Kalimpong. Afternoon free to explore the streets of this thriving bazaar town.
- A free day in Kalimpong with a guided visit to Durpin Monastery. Afternoon at leisure.
- Drive to Bagdogra Airport, fly to Delhi and transfer to the group hotel.
- Departure day. A transfer to Delhi Airport is provided.
Tour dates and prices
Tour dates and prices
Land Only
The price of our trips does not include international air travel to the start location in the destination city and country. The start location for joining the trip is identified for each trip. It's usually a centrally located hotel. KE can easily arrange all airport transfers for you.
International Air Travel
Please contact us at KE for air travel advice. We will be happy to discuss the flight arrangement which best suits your group.
2 teachers FREE
The Guide Price assumes that 2 teachers will accompany the group. Their Land Only costs are covered by the group's payment.
|Guide Price
|Park Fees/permits
|Other Charges
* We give a price estimate for all of our school trips. This is based on 12-16 pupils and includes two free teacher places. If you are interested in a specific trip, we will send you a quote letter. You may wish to take extra teachers or add on additional days and this can all be included into your quote, on request.
Map & Itinerary
Map & Itinerary
The Route
- airport
- point
- trip direction
- transfer
- trek
Holiday Itinerary
Meet at the group hotel in Delhi. Transfers from Delhi Airport are provided.
Meet at the group hotel in Delhi. Airport transfers are provided for all clients arriving on Day 1. KE Land Only package services begin with lunch. In the afternoon, a city sightseeing tour is provided. Alternatively, you may choose to take it easy at the hotel.
Accommodation Hotel with swimming pool
Meals ld
Fly to Bagdogra and drive to the former British Raj hillstation of Darjeeling (2500m).
After breakfast, we drive to the domestic terminal of Delhi Airport. The flight to Bagdogra runs parallel to the Himalayas and if the weather is clear, we have views of all of the Himalayan giants; including Nanda Devi and Panch Chuli and all of the Nepalese 8000 metre peaks; Dhaulagiri, the Annapurnas and Manaslu, Cho Oyu, Everest, Makalu and the massive bulk of Kangchenjunga, just as we come in to land. We meet our trek leader as we leave the airport in Bagdogra and from here it is a four-hour drive to Darjeeling (2500m). At first, we drive through flat rice fields and Assam tea plantations, before the road starts to climb into the foothills of the Himalaya. Darjeeling, built on top of a ridge, faces the Himalaya and is a popular tourist destination for Westerners and Bengalis alike. The richly forested land was originally acquired by the British in 1833, who introduced tea growing and promoted the settlement as a health resort. Arriving in the town, we check in at a comfortable hotel with views of the Himalayan peaks.
Accommodation Hotel
Meals bld
A free day for sightseeing or to take part in a Community project. Overnight in Darjeeling.
This is a day set aside for participation in a Community Project arranged by KE. Other options for today include visits to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, a tea plantation or a ride on the narrow gauge railway.
Accommodation Hotel
Meals bld
Drive to Dhodray and trek towards the crest of the Singalila Ridge. Overnight at Tonglu (2900m).
After breakfast at the hotel, we set off on the 2-hour drive to the village of Dhodray, the starting place for our trek on the Singalila Ridge. We have chosen to begin the trek at Dhodray rather than the more usual start of Maneybanjang at the foot of the ridge, as this involves considerably less climbing. Setting off from Dhodray also avoids having to walk on the jeep road which climbs in zig zags from Maneybanjang up the ridge. Our first day of trekking follows a wide trail through rhododendron forests and meadows with great views all along the way of Kangchenjunga. We camp by a 'trekkers hut' at Tonglu in a spectacular setting, overlooking the Singalila Ridge and Kangchenjunga.
Accommodation Camping
Ascent 570m
Distance 2km
gps data View now
Meals bld
Descent 100m
Time 2 hrs trekking
Trek via a tea stop at the Nepalese village of Jaubari to Kalpokhari (3024m).
Today we follow a walking trail as well as sections of the jeep road which runs along the ridge. We begin the day with a leisurely descent to the picturesque Nepalese village of Jaubari, where we can take a break for tea. Then it's back to the ridge for the climb to our camp at Kalpokhari (Black Lake) at 3024 metres. At this stage of the holiday we are walking relatively short days, as we have to acclimatise before moving up to Sandakphu.
Accommodation Camping
Ascent 660m
Distance 15km
gps data View now
Meals bld
Descent 670m
Time 5 hrs trekking
Follow the ridge-top trail to Sandakphu (3636m). Afternoon free to relax and enjoy the view.
From Kalpokhari we start the long climb up on to the Singalila Ridge proper. After a pleasant hour's walk with good bird spotting potential, it is a further 2 hours and a steady pull up to Sandakphu (3636m). The reward (if the weather is clear) is a remarkable panoramic view of Kangchenjunga, Makalu, Everest, Lhotse and the other, lesser peaks of Sikkim and eastern Nepal. The afternoon is spent relaxing around camp, exploring the numerous viewpoints, and adjusting to the thinner air and cooler temperatures at this higher altitude. From our camp, there are remarkable sunset and sunrise views of Everest, Makalu, Chamlang and Kangchenjunga.
Accommodation Camping
Ascent 640m
Distance 6km
gps data View now
Meals bld
Descent 100m
Time 3 hrs trekking
Up early for the sunrise on Kangchenjunga. Then, trek on the broad ridge to Sabargram (3425m).
Weather permitting, we begin today with an early morning call and a short stroll to a prominent viewpoint for the magnificent sunrise, before returning to camp for breakfast. Today we have a short day on the most spectacular section of the Singalila Ridge. The trail undulates up and down but is never too demanding and rewards us with ever-changing views of the snow-capped Himalaya to the north and north-west. This is one of the finest day's ridge-walking to be found anywhere in the world. Tonight we camp at Sabargram at 3425 metres.
Accommodation Camping
Ascent 760m
Distance 17km
gps data View now
Meals bld
Descent 840m
Time 6 hrs trekking
Trek to Singalila Peak (3695m). Return to Phalut and descend to Samadeen Village.
Another good day of trekking, with an early start, as we hike along the ridge to Phalut and from there continue to trek northwards to a high point at the prayer-flagged summit known as 'Singalila Peak' (3695m). Ahead of us there are great views of Kangchenjunga and we can look down towards the Sikkim border which meets the ridge at Chiwabhanjang. Retracing our steps to Phalut, we have lunch and then begin our descent from the ridge towards the east. Dropping down, through thick forest of oak, chestnut and rhododendron (lots of exciting birdlife here), we reach the village of Gorkhey after a couple of hours and have a final, short ascent to the beautiful village of Samadeen.
Accommodation Camping
Ascent 200m
Distance 14km
gps data View now
Meals bld
Descent 1240m
Time 5 hrs trekking
Downhill through farmland to the Siri Khola. Then continue via Maneydhara to Rimbik.
This last day of trekking leads generally downhill on a pleasant trail through rich farmland to the village of Ramman and then onwards, to a bridge across the Siri Khola, where we stop for lunch. From here, we walk through pleasant forest on a good path to the village of Maneydhara, with views of Kabru Dome and Kabru South. Maneydhara is a large village with a monastery and overlooks a picturesque valley with Darjeeling beyond. Continuing through the village, we reach the nearby settlement of Rimbik, where we overnight at a lodge.
Accommodation Camping
Ascent 570m
Distance 16km
gps data View now
Meals bld
Descent 1060m
Time 5 hrs trekking
Drive to Kalimpong. Afternoon free to explore the streets of this thriving bazaar town.
After saying goodbye to most of our trek staff, we meet our vehicles and set off on the long drive to Kalimpong. This town was once an important trading centre, strategically located at a crossroads between Sikkim, Bhutan, Tibet and the plains of Bengal. One of the principal commercial enterprises of the town today is the growing of flowers in extensive nurseries. We stay at a comfortable hotel in the town and have time in the afternoon for a look around the bazaars.
Accommodation Hotel
Meals bld
A free day in Kalimpong with a guided visit to Durpin Monastery. Afternoon at leisure.
A free-day to explore Kalimpong, which begins with a sunrise view of Kangchenjunga (weather permitting). After breakfast, we have a short sightseeing trip, which can include visits to Durpin Monastery, to a paper factory, to flower/cactus nurseries and to an intriguing Catholic church built in the style of a Tibetan monastery. The afternoon is free for relaxing in the grounds of the hotel, with the option to take a walk around the bazaar in the evening.
Accommodation Hotel
Meals bld
Drive to Bagdogra Airport, fly to Delhi and transfer to the group hotel.
We have a reasonably early start for the drive back to Bagdogra Airport, where we check in for the flight to Delhi. Arriving in the Indian capital in the afternoon, we transfer to our airport accessible hotel. This evening we will have a 'farewell' dinner. Overnight at the group hotel.
Accommodation Hotel with swimming pool
Meals bld
Departure day. A transfer to Delhi Airport is provided.
KE Land Only package services end after breakfast at the hotel. Airport transfers are provided for all client departing on this day. There are lots of extensions that can easily be added to your holiday in india. Why not pre-book a 1-day excursion to the fabulous Taj Mahal, or a multi-day Rajathan experience, or a beach hotel break in Goa or Kerala. Contact our office for details.
Meals b
Holiday Information
Holiday Information
What's included
- A qualified UK KE Schools leader
- Experienced English-speaking local guide
- Delhi Airport transfers
- Internal flights and transfers
- All land transport involved in the itinerary
- All accommodation as described in the trip dossier
- All meals
- A full service trek including food and all equipment (excluding personal equipment)
What's not included
- Travel insurance
- Visas
- Tips for local staff
- Miscellaneous expenses - soft drinks and souvenirs etc.
Meal plan
Joining Arrangements & Transfers
View the gallery below for images of the style of accommodation used
A Typical Day
Group Leader & Support Staff
Spending Money
Guidance on Tipping
Baggage Allowance
KE Trek Bag
All KE clients will receive a FREE KE trek bag. These have been specially made to stand up to the rigours of adventure travel. Your KE bag will be posted to you when your trip is guaranteed to run or on receipt of your booking if the trip is already guaranteed. If you have travelled with us before and already have a KE trek bag you can select an alternative free gift in the booking process.
Equipment List
The following checklist should help you with your packing. As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum.
You must bring the following items:
- Hiking boots
- Trainers / sneakers or sandals for river crossings and camp use
- Walking socks (3 pairs)
- Spare laces
- Trekking trousers
- Waterproof overtrousers
- Underwear
- Long johns (thermal underwear)
- Baselayer shirts (short sleeve and 1 long sleeve)
- Shirts or T-shirts
- Fleece jacket or warm jumper
- Waterproof jacket
- Sunhat
- Warm hat or balaclava
- Eyewear - Sunglasses
- Gloves or mittens
- Daypack c. 30
- Headtorch with spare batteries
- Water bottles 1 litre (x2)
- Sun protection (including total bloc for lips, nose etc.)
- Sleeping bag rated comfortable to minus 10ºC (minus 15 ºC for late November and December trips)*
- Washbag and toiletries
- Antibacterial handwash
- Small towel
- Basic First Aid Kit including: A broad spectrum antibiotic, antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhoea treatment (Imodium), altitude (Diamox), painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite).
- Small padlock (to lock your KE trek bag)
The following items are optional:
- Warm jacket (e.g. down) mandatory for Nov/Dec trips
- Thermarest (note that foam mattresses are provided)
- Trekking poles (recommended)
- Insect repellant
- Scarf or buff
- Sleeping bag liner
- Travel clothes
- Pocket-knife (note: always pack sharp objects in hold baggage)
- Repair kit (eg. needle, thread, duct tape)
- Camera, film / memory cards, batteries
Equipment hire / rental
- Items marked * can be hired / rented through KE Adventure Travel. Please make requests at least 6 weeks prior to the trip departure.
- Note all hire / rental equipment will be issued in Delhi.
Group Size and Holiday Status
For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in 'Dates and Prices' table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status and so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.
Passport & Visas
A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required. The information that we provide is for UK passport holders. Please check the relevant embassy or consulate for other nationalities. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice. If you are travelling outside the EU you should have at least 2 blank pages in your passport for each country that you visit.
Electricity Supply & Plug
We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at:
Know before you go
As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign & Commonwealth Offices 'Know before you go' campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas, and we recommend that all KE travellers take a look at the FCO Travel Advice for their chosen destination on the official FCO website: www.fco.gov.uk. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.
KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe. Should the FCO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation. We receive regular updates direct from the FCO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground. If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.
Schweizerische Stiftung fr Alpine Forschung (Swiss Foundation For Alpine Research). Sikkim Himalaya 1: 150,000
Although a monochrome map (black and white detail with a sepia coloured relief shading), this map is much more detailed than some other more colourful maps. As well as the relief shading it has 100 metre contours, spot heights, peaks, passes, and glaciers, and graphics to show various types of terrain. Coverage extends south to Darjeeling, and within Nepal to the western edge of the Kanchenjunga Glacier.
Recent Reviews & Blog Posts
Recent Reviews & Blog Posts
Good or bad we publish ALL reviews so you can make an inspired and informed choice.
Educational SnapshotA number of Languages are spoken in Darjeeling and the surrounding area, including that of the original inhabitants, the Lepcha people. They speak a Tibeto-Burman language called Rongarin!
At A glance
- Max group size: 16
- 6 days trekking
- Max altitude - 3695 metres
- Best time to go: March / April
- October / November / December
- Minimum Age: 15
- Join in Delhi
Accommodation & Meals
- 2 nights Hotel with swimming pool
- 4 nights Hotel
- 6 nights Camping
- All meals included
KE Holiday Gallery
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The Princeton University Volleyball Camp will be an intense, weekend-long camp geared toward players with a serious interest in playing college volleyball. The camp will be coached by members of the Princeton University Volleyball Staff and will consist of five total sessions – one on Friday, three on Saturday and one on Sunday. The sessions will include technical work, small-group games and exercises, and full-team matches in a competitive setting. Players will be asked to take ownership of their responsibilities on and off the court, to compete in every session, and to participate in camp meetings and post-game discussions that focus on player development, team tactics and individual feedback.
Princeton University reserves the right to cancel, postpone or reschedule any camp or clinic because of low enrollment or other unforeseen circumstances. In the unfortunate case a camp or clinic is canceled, Princeton University will issue a full refund of the fees paid. Princeton University cannot be held responsible for any related costs, charges or expenses, including but not limited to; cancellation/change fees assessed by airlines, hotels, car services or travel agencies.


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Marietta off the map for seismic testing
June 18, 2013
A company planning to do seismic mapping in the coming weeks will not set off any vibrations inside Marietta's city limits....
About jobs: in other areas of the country the high paying jobs are skilled workers brought in from out of state. Local workers get the lower paying low skilled jobs. You might be able to get a job in a supermarket, bar, restaurant with the influx of workers coming to town. That's where the jobs are. 2 oil and gas workers from LA and FL who were living at a local campground beat to death a Wheeling Jesuit Lacrosse player. You'll need to hire more cops to deal with drunken workers with nothing productive to do on their down time. Every town deals with it.
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Looks like Precision has a bad rep in NE Ohio. Google:seismic testing precision damages ***********ohio****/blogs/drilling/ohio-utica-shale-1.291290/geauga-county-residents-upset-with-seismic-tests-1.360814
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@Mariettaveteren I love how you point out about everything else causing cancer so it makes it okay if you have one more thing around that causes it. Just the normal oil/gas drilling propaganda to somehow fool the masses .Kind of like the Tobacco Companies as they slowly killed millions of Americans.
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@Mariettaveteren You didn't comment about all the oil/gas Jobs in the area could you please post a link so people could apply for them ? Thank You
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Funny seen where Darlene made a comment and she doesnt live near where they are doing the testing.Everyone is always ready to make someone pay.People who do not have land are jealous.And there are those who finally get what they deserve .
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yes, there is still these little companies that don't give a darn about the land, and I hope the EPA enforces them, but these companies doing horizontal drilling in this Utica, are very very big companies and safety is a big key.
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Fluoride in your drinking water also causes cancer, but I bet your still drinking it. The artificial sweetner such as splenda and others have been known to cause cancer. Baseline is, just about everything does. Water table around 100ft until solid rock, wells are almost 8k feet deep, water doesn't travel uphill nor through a mile and a half of rock. Just like the news, you are wrong Mr. Brown. You have a Bias opinion but you've never been on one of these sites and seen the millions of dollars spent, soil testing, and keeping the environment and the land owners happy.
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@Mariettaveteren I really like your commercials for the gas/oil drillers you have all the keywords and you do a great job at it.I really like the part about my cell phone causing cancer.But my cell phone doesn't have benzene in it like Fractal water does that has been proven to cause cancer.As for the jobs just more lies please post a link so people can apply for them in Washington County prove me wrong.This fall when the EPA takes over running oil/gas drilling I hope things will get better.
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@ Josh Brown, these jobs are not "Low Skilled" jobs, before you start commenting on things, make sure you got the facts. I cant believe you would say things that deprive americans of jobs even though you think it damages the environment. People like you are why the economy is failing. Toxic cancer you say? the odds of you getting cancer using the phone your posting on here with is much better. You sound like Oneall that posts on here, well Oneall doesn't even work, Obama takes care of him....Josh, if you were in control, then my family, and million other families would starve........
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There are jobs out there, you just got to know what to do to get them. These drilling companies contract numerous other companies. Everything from truck drivers, directional drillers, mud engineers, etc. A lot of the companies will bring in there own people, your right, it isn't really about the jobs, its about where the people that are working these jobs are eating, sleeping, buying supplies. Therefor things that they can get locally, they will. A lot of companies from the Marcellus shale are moving this way, such as chevron, chevron uses drilling companies such as Patterson UTI, Haliburton, and many others. Therefor apply to them, u might start working 2 hours away, but it is slowly moving this way.
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@ NasCarNut The only jobs I know about are the truck driving one hauling toxic waste water to the wells.From what I understand they only hired 10 people or less in the whole county.The only people making out on all of this are the oil/gas driller and city officials taking bribes.
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I'm curious to know just how many jobs have been filled locally?? I've heard most of these companies brought workers with them...anyone know??
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Sorry for the bad grammar posting from my cell phone
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I'm glad they made the right choice and stoped the mapping.I also really sick about hearing the oil/gas & city talking about bringing job to the area .When all the jobs are short term low skill ones that be be gone once the wells are in place.It's all about money the oil/gas drillers are raping Ohio for all it worth and will leave nothing behind but billions of gallons of toxic cancer causing fluid.
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While not doing these seismic testings in Marietta, brings a sigh of relief from the whiners. What happens in the future to these whiners if something happens that this testing could have prevented?
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Thank you....
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Nice if you live IN city limits. Not that it really matters, considering WHY they're doing this.
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text:
RyLoS wrote:And IF you want, you can install wine and put last tsmuxer.exe for windows on /pms/linux directory renaming it "tsMuxer" and making it executable with chmod +x tsMuxer.
I'm currently using tsMuxer 1.8.19 under my ubuntu server (64bit) with PS3MediaServer.
I've been trying this, but the problem is that it has a propensity for causing issues. Namely, I've seen threads crash in PMS, but leave mencoder running. New requests won't be processed until you restart PMS. What is really needed is an updated linux binary for tsMuxeR, but I wouldn't hold my breath.
With regards to the multithreading question, the default build of mencoder only supports multithreading decodes/encodes for some codecs (namely mpeg2 supports multithreaded encoding). x264 does not include multithreaded decoding support. There is a patch that you can use and compile a custom version to add multithreaded x264 decoding support, (perhaps there is a package for Ubuntu, but i doubt it).


text:
State Treasurer Warns Of Port Project Delays Over Fiscal Crisis
April 28, 2011 Leave a comment
Bill Lockyer Addresses Pacific Merchant Shipping Association
by Sean Belk, Staff Writer
Before a room full of international trade executives and officials, California State Treasurer Bill Lockyer forewarned of major infrastructure projects – including the Gerald Desmond Bridge replacement project – either being delayed or halted if the state budget doesn't pass this year.
Lockyer referred to the $950 million bridge project during an industry luncheon in mid April presented by the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association. The event at the Hyatt Regency hotel was attended by roughly 250 people connected to the maritime trade industry.
By all accounts, local, federal and state grants have already been committed for the highly lauded bridge project. The infrastructure improvement is a joint effort between the Port of Long Beach and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), along with the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority. The project, according to port officials, is slated to begin construction either later this year or early 2012. However, Lockyer said the project is "on a list – a wish list." He added, "Maybe by 2016 it will be completed, but it's not on any Caltrans list at the moment."


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The University of North Dakota says it has suspended men's basketball play-by-play radio announcer Paul Ralston for two games due to comments he made after Saturday's game against Northern Arizona.
The Grand Forks Herald reports that Ralston used the words "choke job" in his interview session with UND coach Brian Jones after the team's 74-72 overtime loss at the Betty Engelstad Sioux Center.
North Dakota held a narrow lead in the final minute of regulation, but Northern Arizona rallied to force overtime and win.
Athletic director Brian Faison says Ralston will not call UND's Big Sky Conference game at Northern Colorado on Wednesday or the Bracketbuster game Saturday at Nebraska-Omaha.
Associate athletic director Kyle Doperalski will handle the play-by-play duties for those games.
Location, ST | website.com


text:
CCSF Fact Sheet
- City College of San Francisco is located in the City and County of San Francisco.
- Nearly 8% or 64,000 of San Francisco residents take classes at the college each year.
- In 2011-2012, approximately 47% of credit students enrolled in at least one Career and Technical Education (CTE) course.
- According to 2011-12 Student Headcount, the college had a total of 24,088 CTE Credit
- CCSF offers more than 50 academic programs and over 100 occupational disciplines.
Mission Statement
Consistent with our Vision, City College of San Francisco provides educational programs and services that promote successful learning and student achievement to meet the needs of our diverse community:
Our primary mission is to provide programs and services leading to
- Transfer to baccalaureate institutions;
- Achievement of Associate Degrees in Arts and Sciences;
- Acquisition of certificates and career skills needed for success in the workplace;
- Basic Skills, including learning English as a Second Language and Transitional Studies.
Student Population
Total unduplicated headcount enrollment
Fall 2012: 52, 801
Fall 2011: 60, 397
Fall 2010: 61, 532
Credit and Noncredit Student Headcount by Ethnicity 2011-2012
Credit and Noncredit Student Headcount by Age Group 2011-2012
Number of Certificate and Degree Programs 2011-2012
Outstanding Administrators, Staff, and Faculty
As of 2012 Approximately
Administrators: 42
Full-Time Faculty: 757
Part-Time Faculty: 896
Full-Time Classified Staff: 612
Part-Time Classified Staff: 157
Source: CCSF Office of Research and Planning


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Iberville Parish judge ready to upgrade gavel
Published: Saturday, October 13, 2012 at 6:01 a.m.
Last Modified: Saturday, October 13, 2012 at 11:23 p.m.
- Last in a four-day series.
William Dupont
Name: William DuPont.
Age: 60.
Party: Democrat.
Occupation: District judge, 18th Judicial District.
Office sought: 1st Circuit Court of Appeal, 1st District, Division B.
Religion: Catholic.
Hometown: Plaquemine.
Family: Married to Mary Ardoin Dupont; two daughters, Kristin and Lauren.
Website: www.Dupont
The following represents all campaign finance activity from July 30 through Sept. 27, according to William DuPont's latest report filed with the state Ethics Administration last week.
Total raised: $30,024.
In-kind contributions: $6,052.
Campaign loans: $100,000 from Plaquemine Bank and Trust Co. on Sept. 24.
Spent: $42,247.
Cash on hand: $113,326.
Lafourche Parish donors: None.
Terrebonne Parish donors: None.
Top donors: Pendley Law Firm of Plaquemine, $3,500; Steve Kent Trucking Inc. of Lottie, $1,500; Lippman & Mahfouz LLC of Morgan City, $1,500; Thomas Dale Lively of Plaquemine, $1,000; and El Mar Consulting LLC of White Castle, $1,000.
Largest disbursements: Fletcher Consultants of Baton Rouge, production and television ad buy, $26,590; Ann C. Rasmussen of Baton Rouge, consulting, $6,000; The Lamar Companies, billboards, $2,050; and Addis Athletics of Addis, beverage holders, $1,134.
BATON ROUGE — District Judge William Dupont of Plaquemine said voters who question his experience need only consider the more than 30,000 cases he has been involved with during his career in public service.
"Now I understand where all my gray hair came from," Dupont said, reflecting on his 22 years with the 18th Judicial District and Plaquemine's municipal government where he once served as city attorney.
He said he's running for the local seat on the 1st Circuit Court of Appeal "not for the salary or the retirement or the health insurance." Instead, Dupont said he still "owes something" to the people of south Louisiana."
"The public has invested a lot in educating me and giving me the experience that I now have," said Dupont, who turns 61 in about a week and a half. "As long as I'm healthy and able, I should put it all to good use."
Dupont is part of a four-person field vying to replace Judge Jimmy Gaidry of Bourg, who isn't eligible for another term because of an age restriction. Gaidry celebrated his 70th birthday earlier this year, which is a legal stopping point for judges in Louisiana.
The primary election is scheduled for Nov. 6, with a runoff prepared for Dec. 8 if one candidate fails to capture a majority of the vote.
The court's 1st District, Division B includes all of Ascension, Assumption, Iberville, Lafourche, Pointe Coupee, St. Mary, Terrebonne and West Baton Rouge parishes. The court examines decisions from lower courts and its proceedings typically involve civil, criminal and family matters.
The local seat is hotly contested, and three Republicans are poised to stand in Dupont's way, including Terrebonne Parish prosecutor Chris Erny of Houma; Mark Plaisance of Thibodaux, who served as city judge for Baker for six years; and former state Rep. Mitch Theriot of Raceland, who presides as municipal judge in Golden Meadow and Lockport.
Dupont is the only Democrat in the race and has been endorsed by the state party. In a prepared statement, party leaders said he has "built a solid reputation as a conservative, honest, independent and fair public servant," adding his "hard work, preparation and competency are widely recognized."
In an interview Friday, Dupont said he considers himself a "strong conservative" who cares about issues such as gun rights. But he added that he isn't very active in party politics.
"When you become a judge, party goes out the window," he said. "When people come into my courtroom, I don't ask if they're Republican or Democrat or Catholic or Baptist."
Dupont is also the only candidate who isn't a native of the Terrebonne-Lafourche area. It's for this reason that some pundits and columnists have partly couched this contest as a regional mashup.
In the areas where Dupont serves and is best known -- Ascension, Iberville, Pointe Coupee and West Baton Rouge parishes -- there are about 125,000 registered voters. In the coastal parishes, where the other candidates find their respective bases, there are nearly 170,000 registered voters.
Thanks to a $100,000 loan made by Plaquemine Bank and Trust Company two weeks ago, Dupont will be able to reach out the electorate more easily. With the $30,000 in individual contributions his campaign also raised from July 30 through Sept. 27, the latest reporting period, Dupont goes into the final stretch with $113,000 in the bank -- more than any other candidate.
Dupont's most recent campaign finance report likewise shows he'll be relying heavily on television. His campaign spent $26,590 in early August with Baton Rouge consultant Roy Fletcher on production costs and a TV buy.
It's not the first time Dupont has run for public office. He ran unsuccessfully for state representative in the 1970s.
"I'm glad I didn't win that seat," he said, "because I ended up doing something else that I now love."
For Dupont, it's in his blood. Growing up he had uncles that served as judges, and his brother and father were both parish tax assessors. Today, he has a private practice with his brothers, Dupont Dupont and Dupont.
"I actually went to college to be a veterinarian, but after my first chemistry course I decided to be a lawyer," he said. "And I really enjoy it. Once I started practicing law, I found out you can make a difference. Some things aren't so nice, like sitting on a murder trial or molestation case. But you can make a real difference in peoples' lives."
Dupont said he has tried several cases over the years in the 1st Circuit, "as well as on practically every other level in Louisiana." Coupled with his time on the bench, he said he has a broad perspective that other candidates can't match.
As a city attorney, he said he redrafted and prepared the entire City Code of Plaquemine, which is still in use. As a prosecutor with the Jefferson Parish District Attorney's Office, which was part of his clinical practice while attending law school at Loyola University, and later for West Baton Rouge Parish, he learned "there are truly two sides to every case."
He said he was part of the team that brought the first drug lab into the 18th Judicial District and he helped Plaquemine officials bring their juvenile cases up to date, saving the city $100,000 in detention costs.
"Every day that I sit in this office, I try to accomplish something," Dupont said. "I'm here to work on cases with fairness and to give both sides respect. That's something I'll keep doing."
Jeremy Alford can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com.
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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The Richmond County Sheriff's Office needs 60 new patrol cars...but because of a lack of funding, they're only getting a third of them.
News 12's Kate Tillotson is on your side with how saving now could cost taxpayers more down the road.
Do we pay for new cars now, or pay to maintain the old ones we have?
It's the million-dollar question plaguing traffic patrol.
Some of Augusta's patrol cars have hit rock bottom.
"You're looking at overheating problems, thermostat problems, alternators going out," says Ron Crowden, director of fleet management.
And for many, with more than 100,000 miles, it's time to be replaced...but there's a problem.
"The tax dollar is not what it used to be. It's not as available as it used to be," Crowden says.
Because of a tight budget, the sheriff's office will have to settle for just 24 new cars this year, versus what it really needs: 60.
According to a recent evaluation, out of 120 cars, nearly half have over 100,000 miles...and most of those are six years old.
"You get into the vehicle, it won't start, it gets hot... so it is frustrating," says Maj. Richard Weaver of the sheriff's department.
And by not buying now using capital funds, the county's allowing its current fleet to run as is...a move creating more maintenance costs paid for by taxpayers.
Maj. Weaver would prefer to buy now.
"I think that would be the smart thing to do. You got a vehicle that's reliable, newer vehicles," Weaver says.
"That's the constant question of all fleet managers and all government entities. Which is better, to buy or to maintain?" says Crowder.
And even when the smoke clears, it's a question that may never be answered.
Ideally, patrol cars would be replaced every four to five years, or once they go over 100,000 miles.
That mileage is very different from the mileage on an average car. Deputies accumulate 36 minutes' run time for every mile, which is twice what a normal driver would.