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Before Kenya Attack, a Warning on Terrorism
Intelligence Report Cautioned Over Assault on Mall, Where Signals of Impending Event Were Missed
NAIROBI, Kenya— Raheem Biviji was inside Diamond Trust bank, waiting for a clerk to deposit his check, when the gunfire started.
He darted inside the bank's vault, and huddled there with 30 other people. Through the cracked door they saw the legs of Islamic militants scurrying past. It was 12:20 p.m. on Sept. 21, and shots and explosions would go on for hours at the popular shopping complex. "It just looked like there was a war inside the mall," Mr. Biviji said.
That al-Shabaab fighters moved so quickly and deeply into Westgate mall, carrying grenades and belt-fed machine guns, speaks to apparent intelligence failures, security breaches and a brave but confused initial response on the part of soldiers and police.
At least 67 people were killed in the four-day siege that ended Tuesday night. Hundreds were saved in moments of heroism. Now, part of the nation's trauma is untangling how the brutal attack happened in the first place.
It wasn't exactly a surprise.
A year before the assault, a Kenyan government intelligence report warned of a potential attack at Westgate, according to a copy reviewed by The Wall Street Journal. The briefing, dated Sept. 21, 2012, said Somali militants from the group al-Shabaab were planning to target the part-Israeli-owned mall. It didn't provide evidence to back that claim.
"The following suspected al-Shabaab operatives are in Nairobi and are planning to mount suicide attacks on undisclosed date, targeting Westgate mall," the brief stated.
Another intelligence briefing from February warned of attacks like those that struck Mumbai in late 2008, "where the operatives storm into a building with guns and grenades and probably hold hostages."
Presidential spokesman Manoah Esipisu declined to speak about the Kenyan intelligence report, and declined to say whether officials adjusted security precautions based on the briefings.
In the Mumbai attacks, Pakistani militants attacked luxury hotels, a train station and a Jewish center, killing more than 160 people. The assault on Nairobi's Westgate mall by al-Shabaab militants was similar in style, but the assailants' nationalities seemed more diverse, officials and witnesses said.
One orthodontist trapped inside his clinic said he saw two tall and skinny men in their early 20s, who, he said, looked like they were from Somalia. Others said they saw men who had lighter skin and spoke Arabic. Some heard English; several witnesses said they saw a pale-looking woman who shouted "Allah!" as she shot people.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Ole Lenku said a ninth suspect was arrested on Sunday, but he refused to answer questions about the identities or nationalities of any of the alleged attackers. "It is premature to release these details now," he said.
Some of the survivors said the attackers asked people to identify themselves if they were Muslim, and let those people go. They also heard militants blaming Kenyans for shedding blood as peacekeeper troops in Somalia, hinting at the attackers' motivation.
As the siege unfolded, the militant group praised its fighters inside the mall and promised more attacks. "The mesmeric performance by the #Westgate Warriors was undoubtedly gripping, but despair not folks, that was just the premiere of Act 1," according to a message on the group's official Twitter account.
Two days after the siege ended, on Thursday, Interpol issued an international arrest notice for Samantha Lewthwaite, a British woman who is the widow of one of four London suicide bombers who killed 56 people in 2005. The Kenyan government is investigating the 29-year-old Ms. Lewthwaite in relation to the Nairobi shopping-mall attacks; she is also wanted in relation to explosives-related charges connected to a 2011 terror plot.
In the month leading up to the Westgate attack, signals appeared to have been missed in the mall itself.
Kenyan authorities said after the attack they discovered an explosives-laden vehicle that was parked in the basement parking lot for more than a month before the Sept. 21 attack, according to a Western security officer. The officials believe that was part of an effort to stockpile ammunition, the officer said.
Even before the siege was over, the Kenyan government asked owners of cars parked at the mall to come with their registrations to pick them up—an apparent effort to counter any further explosives risks in the parking lot.
One member of an elite police unit who responded to the attack, and who worked previously at the Westgate, suspected a shop had been rented before the attack so militants could move firepower through a freight entrance. Officials haven't responded to questions about that possibility.
Tony Sahni, who oversaw private security guards at Westgate for the security company Securex, confirmed that goods going through the tenants' freight elevator aren't checked by security, although he argued that doing so would be too time-consuming a task, especially for the mall's big Wal-Mart-like store, called Nakumatt.
"Are you going to check everything that goes into that store?" he asked.
The mall—a gathering place for Nairobi's elite—wasn't unprotected. About 40 unarmed guards were on duty Saturday at various entrances to the mall and patrolling common areas, Mr. Sahni said. About 12:15 p.m., Mr. Sahni said, three cars drove up to Westgate and at least three people got out of each vehicle and ran toward different entrances.
Businessman Ben Mulwa, at the wheel of his Mercedes sedan, had just pulled into the mall's parking garage when he heard the gunfire roar. Mr. Mulwa, 31, ducked behind a flower bed with a guard. The two looked at each other, he said, realizing they had picked a poor hiding place.
Moments later, four gunmen fired into the flowers. Mr. Mulwa saw the flash of blood fly from the guard's head, a shot that killed him. Then one of the gunmen turned to him. "What I remember is I saw his face," said Mr. Mulwa. "It was a very cold face."
The first shot grazed his forehead; another ricocheted into his knee. The gunman moved on. Police arrived and Mr. Mulwa limped away.
Those who initially responded were members of the Flying Squad, a paramilitary arm of the police that deals with organized crime, said a police officer from another unit. Flying Squad members were already on the scene when he got to Westgate two hours into the attack, he said. So were off-duty police and members of a civilian neighborhood defense group. Everybody was shooting.
The policeman ran over to a colleague who had arrived before him. "Who are the enemies?" he asked. "Shoot anyone with a hijab," or head scarf, the second policemen said, according to his colleague.
Dharmesh Vaya had just dropped off his wife and children at a cooking competition on the roof. Before his daughter, 16-year-old Midal, had a chance to compete, the 44-year-old banker was sorting out a problem with his iPad when his wife Jyotibala called to ask him get the kids something to eat. A few minutes after Mr. Vaya entered the supermarket with his two children and a nephew, they heard shooting.
"Ta-ta-ta—I thought it was a bank robbery," Mr. Vaya said.
A bank robbery it wasn't. The shooters never even entered the second-floor bank where Mr. Biviji was hiding in the vault with others.
Mr. Biviji and the others were rescued by Kenyan soldiers and members of a community response team at about 5:30 p.m. and walked out of the bank, past the day's carnage. As gunfire intensified, the military moved in to the mall and the Kenyan police withdrew.
The policeman with the elite police squad took four civilians hiding with him down the escalator and out the front entrance. But he said their retreat cost them ground against the militants. Once it got dark, the Kenyan soldiers also withdrew.
Militants began to roam the mall freely, hunting for those still alive. Peter Ouma, a 25-year-old construction worker, survived until morning hiding under the stairs. "They were knocking on the doors, and saying 'Police, open!' And then if you opened the door, they killed you," he said.
Sunday and Monday mornings brought more gunfire and blasts, despite government assurances the situation had been brought under control. On Tuesday afternoon, the Kenyan government said that part of three floors had collapsed. Kenyan soldiers at the scene said the collapse resulted from firing rocket-propelled grenades in a part of the building that soldiers said militants had rigged with explosives.
In an address to the nation later that night, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said the militants had been defeated. But victory came at a cost.
Mr. Vaya, the banker, survived gunfire in the supermarket with his children, but his wife had been killed at the Nakumatt entrance when she came to look for her family. On Sunday, he returned to the mall to collect his black Toyota Land Cruiser. Security guards escorted him out through the devastated mall.
The Indian-born banker, wearing flip-flops and a short-sleeved plaid shirt, was reluctant to describe what he saw inside. "This is a beautiful country. I would not want to leave this place," he said. "It's so sad."
—Nicholas Bariyo and Idil Abshir in Nairobi, Drew Hinshaw in Accra, Ghana, and Devon Maylie in Johannesburg contributed to this article.
Write to Heidi Vogt at firstname.lastname@example.com and Patrick McGroarty at email@example.com
Corrections & Amplifications
Ben Mulwa, who narrowly survived a gun attack at a mall in Kenya, is a businessman. An earlier version of this article incorrectly identified him as a security guard.


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SHERIDAN BRONC FOOTBALL - The Sheridan Broncs have done it again and will travel to Laramie this week for their third consecutive year to play for the 4-A state football championship.
They will play Cheyenne East who upset Natrona county in Casper 24-19. The 4-A championship game is scheduled to kickoff Saturday at 4:00 in War Memorial stadium.
The broncs got back to Laramie by winning their ninth straight game Friday at home beating Gillette 45-29.
Both the Buffalo and Kaycee football teams' seasons came to an end in their semifinal games this past weekend.
Buffalo travelled to take on rival Douglas Friday night and stayed close throughout the game, but in the end they fell to the Bearcats.
Douglas opened scoring in the first quarter on a 48-yard run for a touchdown and the two-point conversion was good for an 8-0 lead.
In the second quarter Buffalo scored on a fake punt as Collin Rodriguez scampered 66 yards for the touchdown. The PAT was good and the Bison pulled within 8-7.
2.Ranchester Liquors 3-0
3.Busch Boys 2-1
4.Michelob 2-1
5.CR Best 2-1
6.Frostos/Elks 2-1
7.Misfitz 2-1
8.Catering by R/P 2-1
9.Silver Spur 1-2
10.JS machine 1-2
11.Beaver Creek 1-2
12.Budweiser 1-2
14.Pepsi 1-2
15.Rainbow 0-3
16.Rainbow Girls 0–3
League Play November 2, 2011
A Plus/186 3 Rainbow 0
Ranchester Liquors 3 Rainbow Girls 0
Busch Boys 2 Silver Spur 1
Sunday's Games
Dallas 23, Seattle 13
Miami 31, Kansas City 3
New Orleans 27, Tampa Bay 16
Houston 30, Cleveland 12
San Francisco 19, Washington 11
N.Y. Jets 27, Buffalo 11
Atlanta 31, Indianapolis 7
Denver 38, Oakland 24
Cincinnati 24, Tennessee 17
Green Bay 45, San Diego 38
Arizona 19, St. Louis 13, OT
N.Y. Giants 24, New England 20
Baltimore 23, Pittsburgh 20
Open: Carolina, Detroit, Jacksonville, Minnesota
Chicago at Philadelphia, 8:30 p.m.
This Week:
Thursday, Nov. 10
Wyoming defeats CSU Pueblo 85 to 77.
TCU defeats the Wyoming Cowboys 31 to 20.
Sheridan 45 Gillette 29
Cheyenne East 24 Natrona County 19
Douglas 20 Buffalo 14
Powell 23 Green River 21
Lovell 23 Newcastle 20
Lyman 22 Glenrock 14
Southeast 35 Riverside 7
Cokeville 28 Lusk 7
Little Snake River 66 Kaycee 15
Dubois 75 Midwest 47
The Broncs got 260 yards rushing from Jordan Roberts and five Touchdowns in the Broncs victory.
BRONCS / 4-A FOOTBALL PLAYOFFS - The Broncs host Gillette in one of the 4-A football semi final games tonight at Homer Scott stadium. kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 we will broadcast it live for you on 14-10 KWYO and 95.9 FM.
We'll get started with the First Federal savings bank pregame show at 5:30 with Head coach Don Julian.
As the Broncs prepare to take on Gillette Julian talks about facing a very good Gillette team for the second time.
Our goal in allowing public comment on our web site is to provide an arena for open discussion on the issues. Following these simple guidlines will ensure that your comments remain posted.
The moderators of sheridanmedia.com reserve the right to monitor and screen all content submitted to the site and may delete content, and block or ban users at our discretion. For a full description see our User Agreement.

subset: commoncrawl


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LISBON - The Miller Place clustered housing development had a waterline run to it this summer, ending a 15-year saga to get municipal water service for residents.
The 26-unit Miller Place is located just north of town on Hunters Camp Road. The developer, Dean Rose, had tried for years to obtain village water service for the development and adjoining property he owns but was prevented by a Lisbon law that required annexation in exchange for municipal water services. Rose tried that but was unable to get all of the owners of the property between village limits and Miller Place to agree to be annexed.
All of that changed in 2009, when Lisbon Village Council repealed the law requiring annexation in exchange for water service. Rose applied for permission to tap into the closest village waterline about 750 feet away.
Rose was required to get the engineering work approved and pay the costs for running a line to the existing waterline, but for some reason or another the project bogged down until Miller Place residents approached the village Board of Public Affairs in 2011 and asked what they could to do to see the project through.
Residents were told plans needed to be drafted and submitted to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, with line installation subject to the approval of the village BPA as well.
All of this was done, and Rose's son installed the connector line, which is now the village's responsibility to maintain.
"Miller Place residents, the EPA and BPA worked together to get them water," he said.


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Source: Reuters
quote: The publishers, not Apple, had 100% control over pricing and availability. How is any of that anti-competitive on Apple's side?
quote: Unfortunately there isno law that says "You must only conduct business practices that benefit all of your competition as well."
quote: Apple created a system whereby publishers could not charge less for an ebook at any of Apple's competitors thus ensuring Apple always had the lowest possible price per product. This eliminated any price competition between Apple and Amazon. That elimination of competition was, since it was due to a collusion between publishers and Apple, illegal.


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Mystery writer Jessica Fletcher takes a three-night train trip with her friend and his railroad association through scenic British Columbia. But when a member of the entourage takes a sip of a Bloody Mary and dies, police begin investigating.
The suspects gather in the Starlight Express dinner car, and it's up to Jessica to do some unplanned sleuthing before everyone's plans are derailed by death.


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Shopbop Coupon and Coupon Code
Shop through Amazon at Shopbop! Shopbop.com is a leading online retailer for ready-to-wear women's designer apparel. The list of designers is endless: Couture, Vince, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Ya-Ya, Theory, Velvet, True Religion, UGG Australia, Dolce Vita, L.A.M.B., adam+eve, and more. Use a Shopbop coupon, and also check out the sale section for designer clothing (up to 70%!!). Shopbop launched in 2000, and joined Amazon's team in 2006. Shopbop is also known to have "the best customer service" according to the Wall Street Journal. You will never have a bad experience with them. They offer free shipping within the U.S., and can also ship internationally.


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1 can light, unsalted tuna packed in water (or white chicken)
2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup pineapple, fresh, chunks
2 cups mixed greens
2 Tbs balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup grated carrots
1 tsp ground ginger
2 fresh garlic cloves
1. Place mixed greens on two plates
2. Put half of tuna on each bed of greens.
3. Arrange pineapple chunks and grated carrots around tuna on top of lettuce.
4. In a small cup, whisk balsamic vinegar, ginger, crushed garlic and oil.
5. Drizzle dressing on top of entire salad.


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The "Love Boat" promised something for everyone and a course set for adventure. Indeed, the show's line producer, Henry Colman, led an adventurous life, with a career spanning more than half a century and TV credits that included the hit shows "Green Acres" and "Hawaii Five-O."
Colman, an Altoona native who died earlier this month, began working in commercial television when the medium was just coming into its own. He began as production coordinator on the musical show "Easy Does It," before going on to series like "Robert Montgomery Presents" and "Colgate Comedy Hour."
And while "Love Boat" made many runs, both as made-for-TV movies and a long-running TV series, the veteran producer ended his run last week, dying Nov. 7 in Los Angeles at age 89.
Article Photos
Henry Colman
Hollywood knew him for his work, but to friends back home, he was known as Henry Cohen, a handsome, lively man who never missed a class reunion.
After graduating from Altoona High School in 1941 as president of his senior class, he served in the Air Force during World War II, then went on to earn a theater arts degree from Columbia University. Next came TV.
Colman's cousin, Fay Schmitt of Altoona, said she remembers him most for his handsome features and generous spirit. Her favorite memory of Colman was when she visited him in New York in the early 1950s, and he asked her to accompany him on a photo shoot. Its subject? Charlton Heston.
Schmitt said she was immediately smitten and gladly followed the actor and crew around the city all day.
After the shoot was over, Heston shook her hand - a hand she didn't wash for a month afterward. Soon after, Heston was a star.
Schmitt may have been starstruck, but another childhood friend, Brooks Kaufman, 89, of New Hope, said Colman wasn't affected by celebrity life.
"He was a great guy," Kaufman said. "Friendly and interested in everything, as I'm sure you can see from his career. He worked in TV, radio, movies."
And despite a busy career and life on the West Coast, Kaufman said Colman visited frequently to see friends and attend his high school reunion.
In 2002, Altoona Area High School gave something back to Colman in the form of a distinguished alumni award. The award is given out every other year to as many as five living and one deceased alumni.
It began in 2000 and is based on an individual's accomplishments after high school.
Tom Bradley, the district's retired community relations director, said he met Colman when the producer visited for the awards banquet dinner. He said Colman was a "wonderfully kind person, and he had great stories to tell about his career."
In one, Colman described a phone call he received one night from Elizabeth Taylor. The actress was desperately in need of a date for an awards ceremony and asked him - even knowing he was married.
"His wife was gracious and let him go," Bradley said, adding that of all the stories he'd heard, that one stuck with him most.
Bradley also said Colman was impressed with the high school, and that its students were equally impressed with Colman.
"Students are always impressed that somebody of his background got his start in Altoona," Bradley said.
Colman's career spanned well into the '90s, but he dedicated time in his later years granting interviews to the Archive of American Television for its oral history collection. He completed more than 33 interviews, and even conducted a number of interviews himself on behalf of the Archive, talking with such stars as Aaron Spelling, Ernest Borgnine and George Carlin.
He is survived by his wife, Donna Brainard, and two children, Cathy and Richard.


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If you are interested in aligning yourself with a high-calibre successful CEO or managing director, contact us today and speak with one of the Managers & Directors team.


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Gifts for boys
From classic building toys to video games, superheroes and more, here's a round-up of the best toys for the little dudes on your list.
To see more holiday gift guides, visit newsday.com/giftguides.
'Star Wars' model kits(Credit: REVELL)
Model kits of "Star Wars" spaceships (for kids 6 and older) light up and require no glue, paint or tools; $19.99, More information: http://bit.ly/1MPdKHx; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1MxsZAi.
Yo-Kai Watch(Credit: Nintendo)
Yo-Kai Watch (Nintendo) was made in Japan, where it's been a big hit. Now the Japanese phenomenon is making its way to the States. Similar in spirit to Pokemon, this role-playing game lets players use a magic watch to uncover hidden creatures. E 10+ for Everyone 10 and older; $39.99 for Nintendo 3DS. More information: http://bit.ly/1gcHJLI; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1knhKUp
Lego Dimensions(Credit: Warner Bros. Interactive)
Batman meets "Back to the Future" in LEGO Dimensions (Warner Home Video), a game that mixes and matches characters from many worlds of pop culture. Create your own super team from the worlds of "The Dark Knight," "The Lord of the Rings," "The Simpsons" and more. E 10+ for Everyone 10 and older; $99.99 starter pack or $14.99 separate fun packs for PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Wii U, Xbox 360, Xbox One. More information: http://bit.ly/1GuSORl; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1Go5UDh
Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash(Credit: Nintendo)
Tennis, anyone? Mario will be showing off his backhand as Nintendo serves up Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash, the latest game in the venerable franchise. Characters have the ability to grow and make lots of racket on the court. E for Everyone; $59.99 for Wii U (out Nov. 20). More information: http://bit.ly/1RmrbxP; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1NmhcYs
The Chosen One lightsaber(Credit: Ultrasabers)
The Chosen One, high-tech custom lightsaber; $199. More information: http://bit.ly/1GnLRou; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1QP4ZMV
BB-8 App-Controlled Droid(Credit: Brookstone)
Explore the "Star Wars" galaxies with the BB-8 App-Controlled Droid; $149.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1jRU6it; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1OUxzx2
Forza Motorsport 6(Credit: Microsoft)
Gentlemen, start your engines and get ready for Forza Motorsport 6 (Microsoft), the latest entry in the video game series that makes games feel like they're at the speedway, with more revved-up engine sounds, smoother tracks and improved cockpit camera positioning for better views of the action. E for Everyone; $59.99 for Xbox One. More information: http://bit.ly/1LmxKit; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1LJ8Qeg
Disney Imagicademy Mickey's Rocket Builder(Credit: KidDesign)
Kids ages 3 and older can build and customize their own rockets in the physical and digital worlds using the corresponding Disney Imagicademy app as Mickey guides each mission. Action buttons on the rocket trigger sound effects associated with various rocket combinations; $39.99 at disneystore.com. More information: http://bit.ly/1OaC74a
Chrono Bomb(Credit: Patch Products)
Chrono Bomb from Patch Products lets kids create a "laser" field to crawl through. At the end of the maze is a bomb counting down. Bump the wire and it ticks faster, goal is to make it to the end and defuse the bomb; $24.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1WkoZ0B; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1XCARIu
Lego Elves The Elves' Treetop Hideaway(Credit: The Lego Group)
This buildable play set for kids ages 9 and older includes three mini-doll figures, plus Enki the panther cub, accessories, a magical portal, a secret compartment and more. More information: http://bit.ly/1M3JiZm. Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1kWkNn4
Star Wars: The Force Awakens Battle Action Millennium Falcon(Credit: Hasbro)
This iconic ship opens up into a play set featuring a pop-up blaster that fires Nerf Elite darts, a turbolaser turret, light-up LED cannons, hyperdrive sound effects and more, for ages 6 and older. The set includes exclusive Chewbacca, Finn and BB-8 3.75-inch figures; More information: http://hasb.ro/1RCTTKS; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1HeD9UM
Miposaur(Credit: WowWee)
This robotic dinosaur interacts with an included trackball so kids ages 8 and older can take it for a walk, play chase, fetch or beg. Enhance play with a free app; More information: http://bit.ly/1Gzd6wV; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1incT4b
Giant Leonardo Playset(Credit: Playmates Toys)
This giant 24-inch Leonardo Ninja Turtle action figure transforms into a sewer lair play set. It features spring-activated surprises, false floors, a skate park and more. Includes an 18-inch Katana sword. Compatible with most basic TMNT action figures; More information: http://bit.ly/1M3N4lG; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1WkmcEz
UNICEF Kid Power Band(Credit: Target)
UNICEF Kid Power Bands encourage kids to stay active--the fitness band comes with a free app with programmed "missions" to keep them moving and racking up points--and based on points scored UNICEF then delivers therapeutic food packets to malnourished children around the world; in blue, orange, and two special "Star Wars: Force for Change" editions in black and white, $39.99 at Target.com.
Meccanoid G15 KS(Credit: Spin Master)
The Meccanoid G15 KS from Spin Master is a build-it-yourself, 4-foot tall, walking, talking humanoid robot; $399.99 at toysrus.com.
Skylanders Superchargers(Credit: Activision)
The popular toys-to-life video game franchise now includes vehicles. With 20 new characters, kids can speed across Skylands in vehicular combat, race down roaring rapids, and engage in aerial battles. Story-driven gameplay also includes on-foot adventures; More information: http://bit.ly/1Sccleh; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1MXrfk3
Anki Overdrive Starter Kit(Credit: Anki)
FlexTracks easily snap together, allowing players to quickly create customized battlefields. Face off against friends or AI cars using high-tech, intelligent vehicles. Built-in computers combined with visual sensors ensure players stay on track even during the most legendary battle moments; More information: http://go.anki.com/1P0Anup; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1keVls0.
Kurio Smart Windows Tablet(Credit: KD Interactive)
This two-in-one tablet computer takes kids ages 9 and older from homework to play, with more than 40 preloaded apps. This Windows device has a 9-inch touch screen and includes a detachable keyboard, parental controls, and 32 GB of built-in storage; More information: http://bit.ly/1NDHKVi; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1LEXl6n
Vex Robotics Robotic Arm(Credit: Hexbug)
This completely functional STEM-based construction kit is inspired by real industrial robot arms. Kids ages 8 and older can utilize four points of motion to control the arm and pick up surrounding objects with the claw; More information: http://bit.ly/1HeRel0; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1OaWPkn
New Nintendo 3DS XL(Credit: Nintendo)
This portable video game system for kids ages 9 and older features super-stable 3-D via face-tracking technology and built-in NFC functionality that allows for communication with amiibo figures. Kids can play games solo or connect with other players; More information: http://bit.ly/1NbzOMJ; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1KIMpAB
Sky Rover Voice Command(Credit: Auldey Toys)
Kids ages 8 and older can control the Sky Rover Voice Command helicopter using 12 verbal commands ? no hands required. Simply wear the headset and control your helicopter with your voice. Voice Command also features Smart Hover and Auto Pilot modes for easy maneuvering; $44.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1kWot8i; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1PXbpuU
Disney Infinity 3.0(Credit: Disney Infinity )
Kids ages 10 and older can play as "Star Wars" characters, battle with lightsabers and fly Star Wars vehicles. Kids can also play as characters from Disney, Disney?Pixar and Marvel franchises; $114.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1XCuNjn; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1kWpoWj
Remote Control Machines: Animals(Credit: Thames and Kosmos)
Kits ages 8 and older can build eight different R/C animals with mechanical insides covered by colorful plastic skins. Each animal moves using a different mechanism, mimicking the movement of the real animal it represents. Control movement with a two-button remote; $49.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1XCvaue; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1XCvppb
Vex Robotics Hexcalator Ball Machine(Credit: Hexbug)
Kids ages 8 and older can build this entire machine with snap-together pieces. Use the hand crank to power three hexagonal indexing wheels, which transport balls uphill where they are released onto the return ramp and continue to move in a loop; $43. More information: http://bit.ly/1Sc95Q7; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1MwKab4
Star Wars BladeBuilders Jedi Master Lightsaber(Credit: Hasbro)
Kids ages 6 and older can build their own lightsaber. This set comes with components to create more than 100 combinations with lights and sounds, two independently lit lightdaggers, an expansion hilt, two elbow connectors and more; $54.99. More information: http://hasb.ro/1XCy8yX; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1P8jOv2
Guitar Hero Live(Credit: Activision)
For Sony PS4 and PS3, XBox 360 and XBox One, and Nintendo Wii U, be the center of action as crowds respond to whether or not you're playing well. Rock out in a variety of venues, play along with famous and new music videos, choose from different broadcast channels and more; $99.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1HqGRQB; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1NZBOpK
Star Wars: Episode V11 The Force Awakens R2-D2 Interactive Robotic Droid(Credit: Thinkway)
The remote control sends instant and pre-programmed commands to the droid. The robot also features 10 buttons that program more than 1,000 action combinations, voice-activated responses, sound effects with coordinating head movements and he also projects image of Princess Leia on the wall; $159.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1PxSeHN; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1WMpOtU
Lego Dimensions Starter Pack(Credit: Lego)
Kids ages 10 and older can merge physical Lego brick-building with interactive console gameplay. Includes a Toy Pad to transport special Lego mini-figures and vehicles into the game, bricks to build the Lego Gateway and three Lego Mini-figures: Lego Batman, Lego Gandalf and Wyldstyle, plus the Lego Batmobile; $99.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1GuSORl; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1WISauy
Pie Face(Credit: Hasbro)
Simply put a little whipped cream from home (or a wet sponge) on the "hand" of the game and start turning the handles. It can go off at any time, which means you could get splatted. You score points every time you turn the handle without getting pie-faced; $18.99. More information: http://hasb.ro/1HqLavl; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1MHeWYA
Nerf N-Strike Mega Series RotoFury Blaster(Credit: Hasbro)
The Nerf RotoFury blaster fires darts up to 90 feet. The rotating drum fires 10 darts at a time without reloading; $34.99. More information: http://hasb.ro/1MkpihO; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1L6EZYi
Blip HoverTech Battle FX(Credit: Blip Toys)
Challenge your friends with the HoverTech Battle FX with the electronic flying target. The auto-hover targets use sensors to dart, bob and spin until you blast them out of the air. The set comes with the HoverTech BattleFX Flying Target, two blasters and one charging station; $39.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1HqMkqE; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1Qe4jDs
Hot Wheels RC Terrain Twister(Credit: Mattel)
Rather than wheels, this vehicle comes with pontoons. A simple press of a button and you can direct the vehicle forward, backward and even side-to-side. This all-terrain vehicle can ride through snow, water, dirt and grass; $99.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1PxRAK9; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1iObrI9
Hot Wheels Ultimate Garage(Credit: Mattel)
This huge playset features multiple zones including a shark pier, car wash and a movie theater. It holds up to 50 cars; $109.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1SE3jH5; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1MSs1EP
Marvel RC Hulk Smash(Credit: Marvel)
Control the Hulk's vehicle with smashes, flips, spins and wheelies. You can go through obstacles or knock them over with Hulk's swinging arms; $68. Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1Py98WA
Voice-Command Auldey Sky Rover IR Helicopter(Credit: Sky Rover)
Control the helicopter through voice commands or the included battery-powered remote. It can fly for more than six minutes and can be controlled from more than 10 meters away. The hands-free voice control features 12 commands; $38.86. More information: http://bit.ly/1MkHGXS; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1OzXJXP
1:10 Full-Function 12.8V Pro Reaper R/C Car(Credit: New Bright)
This 1:10 scale Pro Reaper car is equipped to take on rugged terrain. It comes with a one-hour quick charger and all batteries; $59.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1PkVJTo; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1PlpoMa
Thomas Shipwreck Rails Playset(Credit: Fisher-Price)
Inspired by the Thomas & Friends movie "Sodor's Legend of the Lost Treasure," this playset comes with a full track layout with a pirate ship, motorized Thomas train with cargo car and a treasure cargo piece; $59.99. More information: http://bit.ly/20MLiMb; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1OES1Ur
Jakks Max Tow Truck(Credit: Jakks Pacific)
One of the most powerful toy trucks, Max Tow Truck can pull and push up to 200 pounds and climb over just about anything. He also includes 50-plus phrases and sound effects; $59.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1LaBos5; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1GXbmxA
Battle Ballerz(Credit: Yomega Corp.)
Battle Ballerz by Yomega Corp. for ages 5 and older, are collectible characters whose heads are removable balls; $10. More information: http://bit.ly/1GQSRVU; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1jRJb8h.
Equilibrius Stacking Game(Credit: Lilliputiens)
The Equilibrius Stacking Game from Lilliputiens lets kids ages 3 and older sculpt crazy creatures from the critter cards; $17.99 at habausa.com.
Tracer Racers Remote Control Sets(Credit: Skullduggery)
Tracer Racers Remote Control Sets from Skullduggery for ages 6 and up offer a glow-in-the-dark dual loop and more than 36 feet of track as well as two remote control tracer racers; $99.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1keG7mQ; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1P8dZxx
Sky Viper Video Drone V950HD(Credit: Skyrocket Toys)
Kids ages 12 and older can check out the Sky Viper Video Drone V950HD from Skyrocket Toys. The full-sized performance drone records video and pictures in full 720p High Definition Flying at speeds up to 14 mph; $89.99 at target.com.
Marvel's Ultimate Spider-Man: Web Warriors Color Shock Slinger(Credit: Hasbro)
With the Marvel's Ultimate Spider-Man: Web Warriors Color Shock Slinger from Hasbro, kids ages 5 and older will be able to fire web fluid when they pull on the glove and attach the gauntlet. Run out of Spidey Shot? No worries, the set comes with a special water canister that kids can load with water to soak the bad guys; $24.99. More information: http://hasb.ro/1kN6CQI; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1SjgFrI
Spy Gear Ultimate Night Vision(Credit: Spin Master)
Spin Master's Spy Gear Ultimate Night Vision allows kids ages 6 and older to navigate in pitch-black conditions and see up to 50 feet away. The infrared technology creates an invisible stealth beam, allowing kids to see objects in the dark; $40.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1PX9irg; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1HezQNt
Remote Control Machines: Space Explorers(Credit: Thamses and Kosmos)
The Remote Control Machines: Space Explorers set from Thames and Kosmos is a 237-piece construction set that includes instructions to build not only a robot rover, but nine additional space-themed models, including a lunar rover, rocket launcher car, space shuttle and more. The 64-page step-by-step illustrated manual helps kids assemble all of the models and teaches them about real-world examples of outer space; $99.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1P0xBFk; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1kePPWy
Jurassic World Chomping Dino Head Hand Puppet(Credit: Hasbro)
Kids ages 4 and older can pretend they are a Tyrannosaurus Rex with the Jurassic World Chomping Dino Head Hand Puppet from Hasbro. Simply slip it on and chomp down on other Jurassic World figures and vehicles. Pair with the Velociraptor claws (sold separately); $14.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1NEZNfA; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1iOh752
Despicable Me -- Supervillian Jet(Credit: MEGA Brands)
The Mega Bloks Despicable Me -- Supervillian Jet from MEGA Brands lets minions take the helm of the plane; if things go haywire, open the trap door and use a line to rappel to safety; $44.99 at toysrus.com.
Pet to Ninja Turtles(Credit: Playmates Toys)
Kids can recreate the mutation over and over again with the Pet to Ninja Turtles action figures from Playmates Toys. Kids ages 4 and older can mutate the four Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles from pet turtles to fully articulated figures, each coming with its weapon accessories; $12.99 at toysrus.com.
Compose Yourself(Credit: Think Fun)
With the Compose Yourself game from Think Fun, kids ages 6 and older can create, play and share a world-class composition. Simply play with the cards and create interesting visual patterns by flipping, rotating and reordering them. Then, they can enter card codes on a special website to hear their composition played by virtuoso percussionist Evelyn Glennie and members of a full symphony orchestra; $14.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1fD3K6C; Find the best price: http://bit.ly/1kWv0Qc
Moff Band(Credit: Moff Inc.)
The Moff Band is a wearable tech toy from Moff Inc. Put it on and connect with the app and your hand movements make a variety of noises. You can pick up sticks and pretend to play the drums, and you'll hear drum music. Choose a sword and you'll hear swashbuckling sounds. A wand can give off a magical sound; $54.99. More information: http://bit.ly/1foMNfk


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Frustrated by VA's slow progress on application
December 29, 2012
Editor: I am writing today concerning my frustrations with the Veterans Administration. My 88-year-old father is a World War II veteran....
It took me 2 years to get my disability claim processed and I got all the back pay at once. I'm not sure how VA Aid and Attendance benefits work but with a disability claim, you get back pay from the date that the claim was filed. It is a terrible shame that the VA is such a waste of tax payers' dollars. I ended up finding the Huntington Regional office's phone number and actually got to talk to someone down there and it wasn't long at all and it was processed. I hope you get it fixed soon. With Obama taking more and more of our $$ there will be more and more people filing for help of every kind that they can think of which will jam up the system even more. Good luck!
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A pair of Stetson baseball players were named to the 2013 Louisville Slugger Freshman All-America team, which is selected annually by Collegiate Baseball newspaper.
The Hatters, first baseman Patrick Mazeika and utility player Kevin Fagan, were among 109 total players named to the team, including eight from the Atlantic Sun Conference.
Mazeika, who was named the A-Sun Freshman of the Year in addition to being the first team All-Conference selection at first base, was one of just three first basemen named to the team. He finished his first season at Stetson with a .382 average to go with three homers, 11 doubles and 33 RBI.
The other first basemen on the team were Justin Montemayor of Houston, who was the Conference USA Freshman of the Year, and Eric Gutierrez of Texas Tech.
Fagan was one of just four players selected as multiple-position players. During his freshman season at Stetson he made starts at second base, in the outfield and as designated hitter while also making multiple appearances, including a start, on the mound.
Fagan finished the year with a .275 average with 25 RBI. As a pitcher he was 2-2 with two saves and a 2.28 ERA.
The other multiple position players on the team were Corbin Olmstead of North Florida, Jacob Cronenworth of Michigan and Matt Rose of Georgia State.
Since 1988 Stetson has had 23 players recognized as Freshman All-Americans. This is the seventh time the Hatters have had more than one player named to the list in the same season.
Past Stetson players named to the Freshman All-America team are:
Tom Hickox, 1988
James Hufstetler, 1992
Kevin Nicholson, 1995
Ned French, 1996
Sammy Serrano, 1996
Frank Corr, 1998
Lenny DiNardo, 1999
Vinnie Rinaldi, 1999
Andy Wilson, 2000
Jack Collins, 2001
Brian Snyder, 2001
Bryan Zenchyk, 2001
Chris Ingoglia, 2004
Shane Jordan, 2004
Chris Johnson, 2005
David Golliner, 2005
Casey Frawley, 2007
Robert Crews, 2008
Nick Rickles, 2008
Mark Jones, 2009
Ryan Lashley, 2010


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Last week, Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Healthcare Workers West organizers in Orange County, California were booted out of a hospital for the second time this year.
SEIU officials have been trying to unionize workers at Chapman Medical Center through a backroom deal known as a "neutrality agreement" designed to grease the skids for workers to be forced into union ranks.
The agreement was anything but "neutral": Company officials granted union operatives access to company facilities to conduct a coercive "card check" organizing campaign in which union organizers pressure workers to fill out cards that count as votes for union control of the workplace. Meanwhile, Chapman waived the right to have a federally-supervised secret ballot election to determine whether employees really wish to be unionized.
SEIU organizers resorted to harassing late night phone calls, blocking workers' driveways while they were heading to work, bribing workers with food to sign "cards" that would later count as "votes," and stalking workers. One time, workers even had to resort to calling the police to remove the unwanted SEIU militants from their workplace.
Even though Chapman workers won a settlement from the SEIU over the summer which forced the union to renounce the "recognition" it received from Chapman and forego the use of card check, union organizers managed to force a unionization election. The SEIU hierarchy lost again, 90 to 48.
Meanwhile, across the nation, the California-based National Nurses Organizing Committee (NNOC) union hierarchy is on a crusade to unionize "every nurse in the nation." As a result, NNOC union bosses have entered into "neutrality agreements" with nationwide healthcare providers Tenet Healthcare Corporation (NYSE: THC) and HCA Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: HCA), among others.
Nurses from across the country, from Texas to Pennsylvania and Florida are speaking out against the forced unionization of their workplaces.
One major flashpoint in this nationwide battle over nurses' workplaces recently occurred in multiple Tenet-own hospitals in El Paso, Texas. In just 10 days, three nurses from two El Paso hospitals filed federal charges against the NNOC union and Tenet for denying nurses who oppose unionization equal access to discuss the effects of unionization in their workplaces. The NLRB Regional Office in Phoenix has already found merit to some of the charges.
Moreover, in July, nurses in McAllen, Texas successfully voted the NNOC union hierarchy out of their HCA-owned hospital. And Tenet is facing federal charges in Boca Raton, Florida for enforcing a discriminatory neutrality agreement between its facility there and SEIU organizers.
In El Paso, the NLRB held a unionization election in Sierra Medical Center. And despite all the odds, a tenacious group of nurses managed to hold off the forced unionization of their workplace by 10 votes.
Despite union bosses' crusade to unionize every nurse in the nation, nurses everywhere are fighting back against the forced unionization of their workplaces.


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When UFC 130: Ramage vs. Hamill was first announced, neither Quinton "Rampage" Jackson nor Mark "The Hammer" Hamill figured in the spotlight. Back then, the card was being billed as a trilogy-maker between UFC Lightweight Champion Frankie "The Answer" Edgar and Gray "The Bully" Maynard.
The pair of 155 pounders were coming off a brutal war of attrition at UFC 125 that saw the champ escape a savage assault in the first round by the skin of his consciousness. Then Edgar used his biggest asset—an unrelenting heart—to storm back and score enough points to force a draw that enabled him to retain his strap.
Previously, the Bully earned a unanimous decision over the sans-hardware Edgar at UFC Fight Night: Florian vs. Lauzon.
Needless to say, the third bout (and second rematch) was highly anticipated.
With Edgar-Maynard III as the crowning jewel, the UFC 130 slate was off the chain. The MGM Grand Garden Arena would've warmed up with Frank Mir vs. Roy "Big Country" Nelson, Rampage vs. Thiago Silva, Stefan "Skyscraper" Struve vs. Travis "Hapa" Browne, Rick "The Horror" Story vs. Thiago "Pitbull" Alves, Brian "All-American" Stann vs. Jorge "Sandman" Santiago, Miguel Torres and Kendall "Da Spyder" Grove.
Then, we would've been treated to a title bout in the main event.
Of course, we all know what happened twixt the noose and the neck—Frankie went down with a broken rib, then Gray suffered a knee injury and the main event had to be scrapped.
Making matters worse, that was just the start of the hiccups that would eventually derail Rampage's original opponent Thiago Silva (failed drug test), Norifumi "KID" Yamamoto (injury) and Cody "AK Kid" McKenzie amongst others.
So, no, UFC 130 isn't quite what it was meant to be.
Nevertheless, as my Bleacher Report colleague and roommate-for-the-weekend Joshua Carey pointed out, the card is still packed from top to bottom with gladiators who know the definition of the word "quit," but refuse to subscribe to the notion.
Put another way—the sizzle may be gone, but there's still plenty of steak to go around.
As always, B/R will be cageside bringing you live results and reactions from all the carnage. Check back at 6:45 PM ET/3:45 PM PT as the fur starts to fly.
UFC 130 Rampage vs. Hamill: Fight Card, News, Predictions, Results, and More!


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Digital Horse Thermometer
This easy-to-read digital horse thermometer requires only 60 seconds to measure temperature. Read more...
The Digital Thermometer takes only 60 seconds to register a temperature and is very easy to read. It's a must-have item for any barn or medical kit.
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Smith Brothers is proud to offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our products. We stand behind the quality of our products, and should you not be satisfied with your purchase, simply return it and we will refund, replace or exchange it for you.


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Today and Wednesday the U.S. Supreme Court hears two cases concerning gay marriage that could prove to be a major turning point in a debate that pits defenders of "traditional marriage" against civil rights proponents.
The cases
The challenge to California's Proposition 8 (Hollingsworth v. Perry): Prop 8 was a ballot measure approved by California voters in 2008 that amended the state's constitution to ban same-sex marriage. The case could provide an opportunity for the court to address the core question of whether the U.S. Constitution guarantees same-sex couples the right to marry because it involves a decision by California to prohibit gays and lesbians from doing so. But the court could strike down California's ban on same-sex marriage without ruling on the broader constitutional question.The challenge to the federal Defense of Marriage Act (U.S. v. Windsor): DOMA is the 1996 law that bars the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriage. The Windsor case does not directly address the question of whether the U.S. Constitution protects the right of same-sex couples to wed. The case involves a different constitutional question: Does the federal government's treatment of gays and lesbians under DOMA discriminate against them in such a way as to violate their constitutional rights?The Supreme Court's decision to take these cases shifts the judicial focus from state to federal courts. It also raises the stakes since federal cases involving constitutional principles could apply nationwide.Source: The Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life
The big question before the court is: What is marriage? Is it only a legal union between a man and a woman, and can a law such as California's Proposition 8 limit it in this way? Or can legal marriage be extended to same-sex couples?
The two sides
Civil rightsThose in the civil rights camp argue that marriage is a fundamental right, and that to deny that right to gays and lesbians on the grounds of their sexual orientation amounts to illegal discrimination, according to constitutional law scholar John Simpkins.Furthermore, granting gays and lesbians the same rights and opportunities as heterosexual couples does not infringe on religious freedom, according to the Rev. Jeremy Rutledge of Circular Congregational Church."Every church is free to practice what it wants; that's always been protected in America," he said. "It seems very clear to me what we're talking about is civil rights here."Religious valuesThose who uphold conservative religious values say the long-accepted definition of marriage, as it is presented in the Bible, is under attack and, by extension, so is the definition of sin. The result is the erosion of traditional family values and the imperilment of children.The Rev. Kevin Baird of Legacy Church said religious tenets have always been part of the framework for civil society and he rejected the assertion that religion should not influence public policy."There are many religious concepts that are codified," he said. "So to say, 'You can't jam your religion down my throat' is nonsensical to me."Adam Parker
There are peripheral questions of consequence: Can differing religious views influence public policy? Is it discriminatory to exclude gay and lesbian couples from the benefits, rights and privileges afforded opposite-sex married couples?
Timeline of gay rights movement
However the Supreme Court rules on the two cases before it this week, many observers are calling this a historic moment for a modern gay rights movement that began with the Stonewall riots of 1969 and the radical "liberation movement" it triggered.That awakening morphed by the mid-1970s into a moderated and inclusive movement focused on civil rights. The effort gained steam in the 1980s during the AIDS crisis. By the 1990s, LGBT youth organizations were forming, and people in that community were becoming more comfortable expressing their identities publicly.The first decade of the 21st century saw significant social and legal change. Sodomy laws in 14 states were struck down in 2003; anti-discrimination policies were adopted by an increasing number of public and private organizations; and gay marriage issues came to the fore.Adam Parker
Constitutional law expert John Simpkins, a Charleston School of Law fellow, said the court is justified in stepping in if democracy yields an unconstitutional result.
He said the justices could decide it's not for them to rule on these issues and return the cases to the lower courts, or they could dismiss them on technical grounds, or claim these are political and not constitutional concerns. Whatever they do, some risk is involved, Simpkins said.
"The risk for the court is whether the court as a body, or individuals on the court, want to be seen as the justices who rolled back the clock on civil rights," he said. "That can be a compelling force."
Lowcountry residents are keeping a close eye on the proceedings and wondering how their own lives will be affected. A rally Monday at the U.S. Customhouse on East Bay Street downtown is one of many coordinated gatherings of gay marriage supporters.
Heather Friedrichs Lyman, a gay woman in a committed relationship with two young children to care for, said she never imagined she'd "see the day that the Supreme Court took a stand for equality for LGBT people."
"This is a dream I've spent the better part of 25 years not allowing myself to imagine because it seemed so impossible," Lyman said.
Science and polling
Last week, the American Academy of Pediatrics for the first time endorsed gay marriage, citing a review of 60 scientific studies that appear to support the claim that children are better off growing up with married parents, gay or straight, than being raised by a single parent.
"Extensive data available from more than 30 years of research reveal that children raised by gay and lesbian parents have demonstrated resilience with regard to social, psychological, and sexual health despite economic and legal disparities and social stigma," the report states. "Because marriage strengthens families and, in so doing, benefits children's development, children should not be deprived of the opportunity for their parents to be married."
Brian Brown, president of the National Organization for Marriage, disparaged the AAP report, calling its "preposterous conclusion" a "transparently political" attempt to influence the Supreme Court.
"They have done a grave disservice to America's children by endorsing a policy that intentionally deprives children of either a mother or a father," Brown said in a statement. "Their position seems to be that the unique contributions of both mothers and fathers do not matter."
Polls show that a majority of Americans now support gay marriage.
A recent Washington Post-ABC News poll showed that as Americans increasingly view homosexuality as a question of identity and orientation, and not as a choice, their support for gay marriage has grown.
Of those polled, 58 percent believe it should be legal for gay and lesbian couples to marry; 36 percent say it should be illegal. Just 10 years ago, public opinion was almost exactly the other way around, with 55 percent opposed to gay marriage and 37 percent in support of it.
But scientific evidence and social trends have not assuaged everyone.
Religious perspectives
For many conservative Christians, gay marriage is considered unbiblical and homosexuality a sin.
The Rev. Kevin Baird of Legacy Church in West Ashley, said there are legitimate reasons the government should be involved in encouraging traditional marriage: It provides stability for couples and their children, and it "settles men down" and forces them to assume responsibility for their families, he said.
People are born male and female, not heterosexual and homosexual, he said. "They don't have to act on every proclivity."
In an interview last week, Baird spoke somewhat reluctantly, noting that it has become increasingly difficult to have a good-faith, open debate about these issues without encountering the charge of bigotry.
He said he adheres to traditional definitions even as others succumb to trends and political correctness.
"My world view is around scriptural precepts — precepts that have endured the test of time, that are valid for every generation and every time period."
Other religious people say gay marriage is a justice issue.
The Rev. Jeremy Rutledge, pastor of the liberal Circular Congregational Church, said the Bible doesn't present a single concept of marriage, and some of its definitions of marriage are considered abhorrent today.
That definition has changed radically since biblical days, and it can change more without sacrificing core social values, he said.
When he has presided over a same-sex wedding, the couple is engaged in a deeply human expression of love and communal blessing, Rutledge said. "They say yes to one another, and the whole community says yes to them. It's really a traditional kind of thing."
Rutledge distinguishes between the sacrament of marriage, which is religious, and the legality of marriage, which is civil.
"I'm not advocating a law that mandates gay marriage and requires all pastors to do it," he said.
Public interest
Simpkins said the cases before the court this week ask whether marriage is a fundamental right that should be extended to all Americans regardless of sexual orientation.
"In order to limit that right, there is a very high burden," he said. "The government must demonstrate that its actions are necessary to achieve a compelling (public) interest and are narrowly tailored to achieve that interest."
Lyman said whatever the Supreme Court decides will impact her two young boys most.
"Because South Carolina offers no legal protection for children born or adopted into families with gay parents, we had to spend thousands of dollars and jump through all sorts of legal hoops just to try to 'buy' some of the legal protections automatically bestowed upon children born to legally married parents," Lyman wrote. If she should die or become unable to care for her children, the legality of her partner's parenthood could be called into question.
If the court decided to extend marriage rights to gays and lesbians, she wrote, "it would mean we'd have tangible proof that the American promise of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness includes us."


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To say that I have a why child is an understatement. What is a why child? It is Sadie. She has the ability to ask "Why mommy?" about everything. She can even ask the question to things I did not even know were possible. I remember on our way to the airport to leave for Uganda she asked me why our car was black. I believe my response was something like that is they way they made it. But I don't remember if it was enough to satisfy her curiosity.
Sometimes I just don't know how to answer her questions. Often there are answers but not ones I think I can give to a four year old. She just would not understand. When she questions things that I don't understand or I don't know how to explain to her I frequently give her the answer "because Jesus made it that way." I do not like giving this answer because for the most part it does not help satisfy her curiosity but sometimes it is all I got.
I am constantly amazed by how much our earthly parent to child relationships copy our heavenly Father to child relationships. This "why child" aspect of my relationship with Sadie is a copy of my relationship with the Lord. I am slightly disappointed during this process to have discovered that I am also a "why child." I find it more during this journey but I am constantly asking my Father "Why?"
Why am I still here? Why am I away from my husband, Sadie, and Nolen? Why couldn't we be one of those families whose adoption went without a hitch? Why did you choose us for this journey? Why me, Why us, Why Uganda, Why now?
What I have learned as I am conjuring up these questions sometimes the answer is not some fancy worded theological response. It is simply "Because I am God." As a person of the world it is not possible for Him to explain the situation to me in a way that I can understand. I find that I might not be happy with His answer that sounds similar to the dreaded because I said so. But, it is all that I am capable of understanding. I know I will continue to ask these whys throughout my life. I hope to be able to remember that sometimes I don't need to know. All that I really need to do is be obedient and trust in Him to make the decisions for me.
In 2009 my family adopted a child from Russia. All of our friends wanted to know how a single income family was able to save for a debt-free adoption. We are now adopting twin girls from Uganda. This blog is how God has grown our family.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Posted by Holly S at Friday, December 09, 2011
3 comments:
- Shelley StedmanDecember 9, 2011 at 1:46 AM
I was asking God this very question on your behalf this morning. It's just baffling. Your faith inspires me, and so many others I'm sure. I am praying you'll be home very very soon.ReplyDelete
Your journey is an inspiration. Your example of obedience is awesome. God is using you to teach me and others I'm sure. Maybe that is part of the "why." I'm praying for you daily!ReplyDelete
Wow! Great post and reminder...ReplyDelete
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also a runner and am currently training to run another 1/2 marathon (my
first since giving birth to sweet baby number nine)."
I loved the "Toddler's Rules". My twins are 2…this pretty much describes my life at the moment!
My fave is definitely the bathroom rules. Need those here with three boys!
I just "like"d on Facebook
And I already follow A Turtle's Life!
I already follow a Turrle's Life and love the blog!
My favortie is the Subway art.
I follow A Turtle's Life for Me blog!
I liked on Facebook – and checked out the Etsy page – I like the "Our Love Story" and "Favorite Places" signs.
I love the "Do More" inspirational quote!
I already follow a Turtle's Life blog and absolutely love it!
I added VinylCrafts to my favorite shops on Etsy and I LOVE LOVE LOVE the You are My Sunshine Subway Art Wood Sign!
My favorite is the chandelier silhouette!
I follow your blog! :0)
I love the latitude & longitude sign. I've been loving it for quite some time now.
Congrats to you!
Added to favorites in Etsy!
VC has been a etsy fav for a while =)
I like the Bathroom Rules sign (sorry, forgot to include that in comment above). I am also a follower of your blog!
I follow you also!
I like the monogram signs she does and the chandelier silhouette but my favorite is the "You are my sunshine" one. I used to sing that to my kids when they were small. Love it!
I follow the blog too
OK I'm following your blog. Have had a quick squiz and it looks good. Can't wait to explore further.
I added them to my favorites. I love the toddlers rules and you are my happily ever after. They are both precious.
I liked their fb page of course. what great work. Excited to see more
And of course I follow you! You are great.
Love, love, love the "You're My Happily Ever After" sign. It would look great in our reading/music nook.
OK I'm following your blog. Have had a quick squiz and it looks good. Can't wait to explore further.
I added Vinyl Crafts to my Esty Fav's. I love the
Everybody is a Genius quote.
I liked Vinylcrafts on facebook.
I follow Turtles life on Google reader.
Thank you for introducing me to all these goodies!
Happy Monday!
Hearted on etsy! Thanks for the giveaway!
I follow. Love the together we can do great things!
I love the Happily Ever After sign! So perfect.
Liked their page on facebook!
Ohhh, what cute signs!! I added her to my favorites on Etsy. My favorite is "together we can do hard things." I really like the toddler rules too… my boys are REALLY good at dumping toys and standing on tables 😉
I liked her FB page!
And of course, I already like and follow you… oh wait, I should double check just to make sure, huh?!
My fav is the Inspirational Quote Board – Do More Than! I LOVE these and am such a GREAT jumper up and downer!
AND, I LIKED Them!
AND, I already follow your Blog….I LOVE IT!
I love the "You are my sunshine" art!
Also, I like'd on FB!
She is now a favorite on my Etsy– I LOVE the Bathroom rules!
She is now a new "like" on my FB! whoohoo
And yes oh yes do I follow you- I think your pretty darn amazing!
I liked her page on FB!!
I added Her shop to my favorites and I LOVE the "You are my Happily Ever After" sign!!
I liked her page on FB
I follow you via GFC
I'd love the family monogram on my wall! ( I promise to yell & jump in excitement if I win- unless I'm at work when I read the email- jumping & yelling there would scare my co-workers)
Just started following your blog and liked you on FB. Love the signs–especially the Family Rules one.
I added her to my favorites and I love the Bathroom Wall Vinyl decal
I follow A Turtle's Life
I like Vinyl Crafts on Facebook
I Like Vinyl Crafts on facebook
I am now a follower of Vinyl Crafts and I like the Playroom Subway Art. Everybody is a Genius has been a favorite of mine for a long time.
I now follow it's a Turtle's Life
I followed her facebook page!
I liked their page on FB!
I added them to my favorites on Etsy I LOOOOVE the "Words that inspired" Subway art!
Does it count that I've followed ya forever!? <3 LOL
I added to my etsy favourites and I love the subweay art and the herb art
Love them!!! I am sooo happy I found your blog. Would love to win them!
Liked Vinyl Crafts on Facebook
I follow a Turtles life for me
visited the etsy shop, I love the Einstien quote one!
I just signed up to follow u – I have been a closet reader for the last couple months and just love u [email protected]
visited the shop – would love ur my sunshine sign – i sang this to my baby (now 10) many many many sleepless nights [email protected]
Added her to my favorites. Love the Family Subway Art!
I am a follower of yours ~ thanks
I follow your blog.
I liked Vinyl Crafts on Facebook
added to my etsy favs (I'm LuvSophie)
I added the shop to my esty favorites (mssluna02) love their items…
I like the Vinylcrafts FB page! (Amanda Jasinski)
GFC follower (MssLuna02)
Vinyl Crafts is one of my favorites on Esty and i love so many of the signs but I love the bathroom rules most!
I like Viynlcrafts on Facebook!
I follow A Turtle's Life For Me!! and love it thank you!!
I favorited Vinyl Crafts on Etsy. My favorite is the "Everybody is a genius" quote…although I didn't see it right off skimming through her shop. That would be perfect for my husband's classroom…he's a high school physical science, chemistry, and physics teacher. I'm pinning that one…
And I'm a follower of A Turtle's Life for Me.
I love the meaningful places vinyl!
I follow you! Wow….just saw that you are over a million…awesome!!
I liked Vinyl Crafts' Facebook page.
I follow your blog.
I follow ATLFM!
I am a new fan of Vinyl Crafts' FB page.
shanna.u at gmail dot com
I hearted Vinyl Crafts' Etsy shop.
shanna.u at gmail dot com (ID shannau)
Following A Turtle's Life For Me.
shanna.u at gmail dot com
I already have them as favorites.
AAF on FB.
[email protected]
I follow your blog.
I added their shop to my favorites!
Thanks so much for the giveaway
I like them on FB
I follow your cute blog!
I added Vinyl Crafts to my Etsy favorites.
[email protected]
Forgot to say that I like the Family wall art and the inspirational words .
Since I already published 2 comments I combined this one to say I like Vinyl Crafts on FB and I follow A Turtle's Life for Me by email.
[email protected]
I like Vinyl Crafts on FB.
I follow your blog by email.
[email protected]
I favorited her on Etsy- love her My. Darcy qall art!
I like Vinyl Crafts on FB
I follow your blog
I've added her to my favorites and I absolutely love the "Things Moms Say" subway art!
I've liked her Facebook page!
I'm an avid follower of your blog!
She is now in my FAVS and I think my fav of her's is the ..You are my happily ever after !
Liked their facebook!
Already a follower of you & the reason I found out about this fun giveaway! Thanks for the opportunity
Added Vinyl Crafts shop to my favorites. I like the quilting & sewing subway art.
Liked and commented on Vinyl Craft's FB page.
following A Turtle's life blog.
I follow your blog (and I apologize, I have been calling your blog "A Turtle's Place) but now I have it right.
I liked Vinyl Crafts on FB and told them "hi"
I like Vinyl Craft on FB
Favourited on Etsy, and both liked on FB.
Gorgeous stuff!
I follow A Turtle's Life For Me
I added her to my favorites on Etsy
I also liked Vinyl Crafts on Facebook
I follow your blog (love it!).
ALso like Vinyl Crafts on FB.
Hi, I'm Natalie and I like to move slowly (like a turtle, if you will)! I daydream about minivans, painting walls and eating fudge with a spoon. Welcome to my little computer home where I share my family's adventures as we live life from the slow lane! Read More…
Copyright A Turtle's Life for Me © 2016 · Web Hosting By RFE Hosting


text:
Top Definition
When you jerk or suck someone off without explicitly touching them, or are jerked or sucked off without touching them, with the intentions of humiliating the jerker offer.
Jacob's mother gave me a hover job and then I gave her an angry dragon.
作者 Verrukt_Pajamas 2013年8月20日
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text:
Early Stage:
Merecoba Travel
Majority Owner and Westminster Alumni:
Baptiste Prevot ('10)
Launched in 2010
Approximate Yearly Revenue: 0-$25,000
Industry: Travel
Company Overview: Merecoba is unique. We specialize in France education tours, vacation tours, and France vacation planning and travel consulting. Unlike other travel companies offering years of travel experience, Merecoba's founders offer a lifetime of living in France and travel knowledge, including extensive, unique travel planning for the experienced as well as novice traveler. Merecoba offers the very best value for your travels in France. In addition to small-group vacation tours, Merecoba is the leader for MBA group travel in France. Each year, dozens of MBA candidates participate in Merecoba's MBA France tours and discover why France continues to be one the world's leading economic, trade, and diplomatic powers. Merecoba also provides outstanding undergraduate educational experiences.
Future Growth Plans: Expand to other Graduate Business Programs in the USA as well as expand to other European countries.
Major Accomplishments: Merecoba Travel has no debt and generated revenue its first year.
Utah Travel Connection
Majority Owners:
Chris Searle
Liliana Casale
Westminster Alumni:
Chris Searle (BS '93) (MBA '10)
Launched in 2000
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $100,001-$500,000
Industry: Travel
Company Overview: Bring international student groups to Utah for ski programs. Sell vacation packages to direct customers. Sell lift tickers on-line.
Future Growth Plans: Target new markets for student groups. Marketing efforts to attract more direct customers. Increase on-line lift ticket offerings.
Growth Stage:
Pure Life Expeditions
Majority Owner and Westminster Alumni:
Andrew Taylor ('10)
Launched in 2004
Approximate Yearly Revenue: 0- $25,000
Industry: Travel
Company Overview: Pure Life Expeditions runs unique adventure tours deep into the rainforest of Costa Rica. It's perfect for the traveler looking to get a real and authentic cultural experience with their adventures.
Future Growth Plans: Pure Life Expeditions is looking at expanding into the corporate training and therapeutic industries.


text:
Top Definition
A mode of fire found on various assault rifles in the world. Most popular of which is the M16A2 used by the US military. It acts as a fully automatic rate of fire until the third round after which the mechanism will not fire until the triger is pulled again. It is comonly misconcieved that one pull of the trigger always fires tree rounds, 1,2, or 3 rounds may be fired.
I switched my weapon to 3 round burst
de Edwin R 15 August 2006
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The Ramona Collection by Beverly Cleary
- Overview
Ramona's antics make her a memorable and familiar character. In this boxed set of four timeless books, children can follow the unpredictable and funny adventures of this lovable, if frustrating, younger sister.
- 5.5" wide x 2" deep x 7" high
- Set includes four books; volumes 1 thru 4.
- Ages 8 and up.
- Dimensions & Care
- Dust with a soft, dry cloth.
- Shipping & Return Info
This is a general shipping item.
View Our Shipping Information
Return Policy
At Pottery Barn Kids, we take great pride in the quality and craftsmanship of our products. Attention to design, materials, safety and construction is our priority. We carefully inspect your order prior to shipment; upon receipt, please inspect your purchase and notify us of any damage. We will arrange for a prompt replacement. If, within 7 days for Quick Ship upholstery and 30 days for all other products, you are dissatisfied for any reason, you may return your purchase for a refund of the merchandise value.
If your return for Merchandise Credit Cards is greater than $10,000, we will issue $10,000 in Merchandise Credit Cards to you that day, and then mail additional Merchandise Credit Card(s) for the amount in excess of $10,000 to you.
We cannot accept returns on monogrammed, personalized, special-order items, or on items damaged through normal wear and tear. We also cannot accept returns of final-sale items, which are identified by a price that ends in $0.99.
For returns of items purchased from your Pottery Barn Kids registry, we will gladly provide a refund or exchange for the merchandise within 90 days of your event or within 90 days of purchase, whichever date is later.
For assistance, please contact Customer Service at 800.993.4923, 7 days a week, 5:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. PST.
International Returns: Online returns are available only for items that were shipped to the United States. If you would like to return items that were shipped outside the US, please see International Returns and Exceptions.


text:
Welcome to our weekly edition of what's hot in social media news. To help you stay up-to-date with social media, here are some of the news items that caught our attention.
What's New This Week?
Google Introduces Google+ Events: Google+ Events are "for all the moments that matter—before, during and after." Google+ Events will sync with Calendar integration. You can also share photos in real time with Party Mode, and after the event you can see everyone's pictures in one place in chronological order and with comments.


text:
Submit your photo and be added to our Community Outreach Wall of Honor.
UTB Biology Graduate Student, Liana Lerma, hosted an outreach event (Girl Scouts Bait the Hook 2012) as part of a service learning component of Dr. Kline's ichthyology class. The 'Girl Scouts Bait the Hook 2012' event took place on April 28th, 2012 at the South Padre Island Center and introduced the Girl Scouts of the Greater South Texas to local fish species, their habitat, and the importance of fish conservation. Activities included fish printing art, demonstrated by Tony Reisinger of Texas Sea Grant along with demonstrations of fishing skills and safety regulations given by the non-profit organization, Fishing's Future. Seventy local girl scouts, including troop leaders attended this event. Additional sponsors included KOA Campgrounds and H-E-B.
Students from Santa Rosa ISD aboard the UT Biology-sponsored M/V Karma trip on February 21.
Dr. Richard Kline (UTB Biological Sciences) talking to UTB and BECHS students about the lightning whelk (state shell of Texas), as the M/V Karma leaves from Sea Ranch Marina on an educational cruise.
The University of Texas at Brownsville website uses Javascript.
To access this page as it is meant to function please use a Javascript
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text:
Nokia's 2014 flagships claimed to be Lumia 1820 and Lumia 1525, great specs in tow
79 Comments
1. zuckerboy (banned) (Posts: 898; Member since: 22 Dec 2011)
very good specs but waiting for wp update and I will decide
14. Extradite (banned) (Posts: 316; Member since: 30 Dec 2013)
I,m waiting for Wp8.1, till then great specs, just like the Note3, but with a S805. This would be Nokias finest 5.2inch screen.
Wp8 is missing alot of feautres, that even the Lumia920,928,925, and 1020 all combined could not sell near a million, due to the Wp platform. Majority of users do not like Wp, aswell as me, if there was a notification then i don't mind giving it a go.
Nokia needs to get rid of Wp and try another platform, then there would be greatsales of Nokias highend phones..
19. alterecho (Posts: 1098; Member since: 23 Feb 2012)
Exactly. But the lack of notifications is just the tip of the iceberg.
29. dratomic (Posts: 483; Member since: 09 Oct 2013)
still waiting for rodney troll to reply...
31. papss (unregistered)
Rodneys a troll but you are not? Right...
38. Extradite (banned) (Posts: 316; Member since: 30 Dec 2013)
Lmfao... "Rodney troll"...
55. corporateJP (Posts: 2431; Member since: 28 Nov 2009)
Rodney's too busy right now to reply, he's cleaning Elop's pool.
57. rodneyej1 (Posts: 3576; Member since: 06 Jul 2013)
Here I am. That's RodnEflop... Get it right❕
58. rodneyej1 (Posts: 3576; Member since: 06 Jul 2013)
Wait no loger.. How can I help you❔
59. rodneyej1 (Posts: 3576; Member since: 06 Jul 2013)
Wait no longer. How can I help you❔
52. UrbanPhantom (Posts: 949; Member since: 30 Oct 2012)
alterecho@If you hate WP8 so much, then why do you spend all of your free time posting comments in response to the articles related to this platform? Maybe you're a shut-in with nothing better to do with your time than post the same old arguments. It's getting old...
25. hemedans (Posts: 511; Member since: 01 Jun 2013)
that is not true. lumia 920 alone hold 8.4% of 50 million wp device (according to adduplex data). this show 920 alone sold more than 4.2 million devices.
26. zuckerboy (banned) (Posts: 898; Member since: 22 Dec 2011)
thats exactly what I think thx :D
51. UrbanPhantom (Posts: 949; Member since: 30 Oct 2012)
Extradite: "Majority of users do not like Wp, aswell as me".
You are not a majority; WP8 OS is rapidly gaining market share, and is currently the fastest growing mobile platform on the planet.
61. zuckerboy (banned) (Posts: 898; Member since: 22 Dec 2011)
they said the same thing 1 year ago but still waiting damn uptade. I think its not that fast
27. akki20892 (Posts: 3901; Member since: 04 Feb 2013)
Phones are great but only one thing need update OS first. Then we can talk.
Go Nokia. This two phones looks like legendary. And will be great innovation if you put solar charging, but I'm sure Nokia always do innovation.
36. sharz7474 (Posts: 18; Member since: 27 Apr 2012)
Yes, they need to update the OS as quickly as possible, i still remember that you replied to my comment a few months ago and asked me to wait for 1820 instead of 1520....i am waiting...:)
48. akki20892 (Posts: 3901; Member since: 04 Feb 2013)
Yeah buddy. The time has arrive with 1820. This will be great warrior from Nokia. And u still remember my comment.lol thanks
65. c1c2c3c4c (Posts: 19; Member since: 01 Oct 2012)
yea but the similarity in specs is worrisome. it suggests that they will be carrier locked. I'm holding out on getting the icon pending an announcement on the 24th. if its not going to be released for a long time or if its carrier locked on at&t again ill just get a icon.
72. CyberAngel (Posts: 49; Member since: 31 Jul 2012)
I can buy any standard Windows phone in Finland without a carrier lock and that's the way we typically do here. Some buy with one, two or three year contract, but you may still put another SIM in.
We don't think the "price" of a top model is 199 or 299, but the full off-contract price. In the US people pay much more using the expensive contracts while any goods in the huge market place with low taxes is very affordable.
63. Liveitup (Posts: 1798; Member since: 07 Jan 2014)
I love Windows Phone more than Android or iOS.
2. pookiewood (Posts: 631; Member since: 05 Mar 2012)
Hope this pans out. 2k screen though?
3. tech2 (Posts: 3458; Member since: 26 Oct 2012)
Seems a bit too unreliable ! Seems like someone copied GS5's rumoured specs and pasted it against Lumia.
'The design is said to be similar to the Lumia 928 which is certainly slimmer than the current flagships Lumia 1020' - How is this possible with 3400 mah battery ?! Currently 928/1020 has 2000 mah and with increase of 1400mah there will be a seriously increase in thickness and weight, which is already quite high compared to other flagships !
Just sounds too good to be true, IMO
23. MojoDojo (Posts: 102; Member since: 11 Jul 2013)
Never tought about making a device bigger? The phones you mentioned all have 4,5 inch screens. A 5,2 inch device will obviously be bigger..
I think all flagship phones this year will have 3gb ram and a QSD805, Not only the GS5. Many of them will also have 2k displays.
4. sipha (Posts: 434; Member since: 12 May 2012)
Mmmh, how does microsoft make money on window phone??
7. Just.Saying (Posts: 132; Member since: 04 Apr 2013)
First time smart phone buyers who used Microsoft Office and Windows Desktop OS recognise the name microsoft and assume the phones will be good. They PAY for it........and regret later
9. papss (unregistered)
You mean you regret it? Not everyone has ADD and need to tweek every possible thing. I happen to love wp8 far more than MySpace.
13. AstronautJones (Posts: 303; Member since: 01 Aug 2012)
No ragrets.
you know what im sayin?
16. darkskoliro (Posts: 1076; Member since: 07 May 2012)
Not even a single letter.
24. MojoDojo (Posts: 102; Member since: 11 Jul 2013)
You must have been one of the smart kids in your class.. Knowing so much about all these people.. Be proud.
66. c1c2c3c4c (Posts: 19; Member since: 01 Oct 2012)
they make money off of app sales and sell the OEM the OS for basically free like all of the mobile OS except apple who makes a tun from overpriced hardware along with the app sales.
5. uchihakurtz (Posts: 371; Member since: 12 Nov 2012)
I thought spec didn't matter on Windows Phone. They should focus on software, especially the OS as Nokia are making great apps already for their phones. And 3gigs of ram is an overkill for WP, well, at least currently.
6. iguano (Posts: 101; Member since: 10 May 2012)
no dude, now matter, now we got the powa!
8. twens (Posts: 978; Member since: 25 Feb 2012)
The next OS I can't wait for to mature. When it does I am so on board.
15. Extradite (banned) (Posts: 316; Member since: 30 Dec 2013)
Everyone is waiting for Wp to mature, but i believe it will take sevral years for that to happen.... Then when it does, i will to.
21. QWIKSTRIKE (Posts: 1131; Member since: 09 Mar 2010)
WP is starting to get traction, and these are killer specs. No one has a complete ecosystem developed around a total operating platform like Microsoft period. You guys nickel and diming about what it can't do but look at what it can do.
It can run the most powerful desktop from your phone. Things that are relevant on the desktop can be carried over to the phone. It's always buttery smooth. Now it comes with high end specs for all the people that said look it has old last years technology as with the 1st WP's.
A Tsunami is coming with the new Windows Phones and when the notifications come there still will be excuses with some of you. If I recall Apple just copied the notification drop down to the iPhone only recently!
73. CyberAngel (Posts: 49; Member since: 31 Jul 2012)
several years?
Next summer WP 8.1 = equal in function
Next year WP 9 > Android/iOS
It will drive over the iOS unless Apple gets wise with OSX&iOS
10. itsdeepak4u2000 (Posts: 3718; Member since: 03 Nov 2012)
I want that 1820....
11. Teja171 (unregistered)
Where is android like interface in it ?
17. xperiaDROID (banned) (Posts: 5629; Member since: 08 Mar 2013)
That's the Nokia Normandy.
32. papss (unregistered)
Why ruin it with android?
39. Extradite (banned) (Posts: 316; Member since: 30 Dec 2013)
Why is it "failing with WP".....?
40. papss (unregistered)
It isn't failing with wp8
43. Extradite (banned) (Posts: 316; Member since: 30 Dec 2013)
Then why stuck at 4% for, not progressing... Look at all previous WM WP7 and know WP8?
67. c1c2c3c4c (Posts: 19; Member since: 01 Oct 2012)
its the fastest growing mobile platform in the world... I hardly consider it stuck at 10%
68. c1c2c3c4c (Posts: 19; Member since: 01 Oct 2012)
sorry, projected 11.2% at current growth rate for q4 2014 ;)
of course if the growth doesn't taper off as it likely will start to it would reach an amazing 62.7% market share by Q4 2015
in reality I expect a 8-9% market share
74. CyberAngel (Posts: 49; Member since: 31 Jul 2012)
I expect OVER 25% with WP 9
iOS under 25%
76. c1c2c3c4c (Posts: 19; Member since: 01 Oct 2012)
yea well wp9 will be early 2015 that could be right. apple will definitely be the one to fall, outside of a extreme change to there phones, which is unlikely. there current trend is to set up false fronts or imply outdated ideas still hold true for people who don't fact check aka "retina" branded displays which are the worst in there class for pixel density and color accuracy. they were good like 4 years ago but times have changed and they haven't.
of course to reach 25% MS will need to push 8. they had a good setup for enterprises and lost focus a bit. if they can get in the door though they offer the best in class security and a great suit to control the marketplace and setup for corporate phones, (the original blackberry's style of market garnering). 10-15% should be the threshold to were others see it as a more viable ecosystem then start flooding over.
33. papss (unregistered)
Why ruin it with android?
62. zuckerboy (banned) (Posts: 898; Member since: 22 Dec 2011)
for tens of millions sells. do you understand ?
12. aranauser (Posts: 58; Member since: 07 Jan 2014)
The next lineup will be lumia xx30 not lumia xx20
18. Difrab (Posts: 3; Member since: 11 Dec 2013)
Too bad that the 1820 has the same design as the 928, is very square for my taste and not at all elegant. At least he'd like Lumia 925 or 1520.
I'll have to keep waiting to update my HTC HD7, maybe a new HTC or Samsung phone.
20. fouadqr (Posts: 326; Member since: 21 Nov 2012)
everthing is amazing but i want lumia 930
22. Credo (Posts: 748; Member since: 19 Apr 2012)
Wauww if the 5.2" version has solar charging i would buy it in a heartbeat, and the ONLY thing Nokia needs is a good marketing team, like Apple and Samsung, otherwise they can't expect it to be a succes ;-)
28. papss (unregistered)
I just found in the Nokia collection of apps was app folder.. When did they add that? Greatly wanted
30. Credo (Posts: 748; Member since: 19 Apr 2012)
You should check WPCentral more often lol :p but i find it useless, it's still an app, i want it to be built in to the OS, otherwise useless ...
34. papss (unregistered)
I know.. I have the wpcentral app pinned to my start screen but don't go there as often as I should. I come here so this site isn't onesided android love all the time.
75. CyberAngel (Posts: 49; Member since: 31 Jul 2012)
I installed the Samsung version (using proxy+script)
and I use them both and I love them both
App or not I find it very useful
The new version allows 6 tile symbols on a medium tile
so it saves space - and the live tile flips through them all
(them= tiles "inside" a folder)
35. shyguy3763 (Posts: 52; Member since: 27 Oct 2013)
I've been waiting for the successor to the 1020,the 1525 will definitely be my next phone! :)


text:
Top Definition
Any form of tissue or napkin remains that have stuck onto skin by semen. Also can be used to describe, in a less precise manner, tissue or napkin remains stuck by the means of a sticky liquid or sauce.
"Reginald had semen stickers on his fingers after wiping his dick down with Kleenex."
HoneyMac가 작성 2012년 11월 26일 (월)
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By day, he's a student-athlete at Mount Aloysius College, a stand-out on the Mounties' golf team. But when classes are over, 19-year old Dylan Link puts on another hat, or whistle as the case may be, and runs the basketball floor as a PIAA official.
"Ever since I stopped playing, I wanted to keep in the game," he said.
Refereeing fifth and sixth graders and junior high teams keeps him close to basketball, where he feels the focus should be more on learning the fundamentals than on wins and losses. But at times he also finds himself in the proverbial crosshairs of eye-rolling, insult-wielding fans.
"A lot of them don't know the rules and they'll degrade you personally when you make a bad call," he says. "I don't mind general cheering, but when it gets personal, that's tough."
That's one reason Link believes more young people don't become officials, and why basketball needs more good ones.
The experience wearing the black and white stripes comes in handy when Link takes on yet another persona, an assistant coach for the Bishop Carroll boys basketball team.
"Officiating opens your eyes more about the game," said Link. "As a player you're looking at the big things, but as an official it's the little things, so it helps you to understand the game better."
The solitary, gentlemanly game of golf may seem like a far cry from the high-tempo realm of basketball; golf is governed by the honor system rather than referees.
Still, Link applies his officiating experience to his golf game, earning not only all-conference honors, but also the sportsmanship award.
"It's about being able to show emotion, but keeping it under control so you're not ruining the game things for other people," he said.
Still a month shy of his 20th birthday, Link is blessed with wisdom beyond his years; a product of experiences from high school and college athletic competition, combined with the leadership of a coach and the fair-mindedness of a referee.
"Dylan is one of the most driven people I've ever met," Bishop Carroll Assistant Athletic Director Joe Skura said. "He will not stop until he accomplishes his goals. We are so lucky to have him as a coach on our staff and to have him represent Bishop Carroll in all of his endeavors."
Link is studying secondary education, history and political science at Mt. Aloysius, with the goal to become a high school teacher, and continue to work with young people. When he's finished coaching on the varsity level, he'd also like to rise in the ranks of officiating to referee a state playoff game.
But for now, Link is getting his varsity playoff experience with the Bishop Carroll boys; the Huskies face Vincentian tonight. Link will fittingly take a lesson learned on the golf course with him: "It might all be over tomorrow, so enjoy the round today."
Kellie Goodman Shaffer can be reached at kellie@ bedfordcountychamber.org. Her column appears on Tuesdays.


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Facing harsh facts
December 18, 2012
This is supposed to be a column about politics, but as I wrote it on Friday afternoon, bickering among Republicans and Democrats didn't seem very important....
"None of them will do a bit of good." says the author. Try convincing the folks in England of that. Walker has it right - a multi-faceted approach which will still fail on occassion. For some problems, there just isn't a perfect solution. Live with that!
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Event Calendar
Throughout the year, Ojai hosts a steady stream of cultural events, culinary delights, concerts, and festivals. Check out what's happening in Ojai California, as well as at Ojai Valley Inn & Spa.
Events for Friday, Nov 8, 2013
Custom Blending | ApothecaryView Details
Mind & Body Studio | Fitness ClassesView Details
S'mores RoastingView Details
Acorn Hour at Camp OakView Details
Fall Family Scavenger HuntView Details
Guided Hiking & GeocachingView Details
Pumpkin PaintingView Details
Pumpkin Patch and PaintingView Details
Heritage Cocktails | Maravilla BarView Details
Maravilla Happy HourView Details
Kevin James O'Brien at Neff Lounge/Maravilla BarView Details
Ojai Film FestivalView Details
Winter Winemaker Dinner | Bianchi Winery
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From BBQ Wiki
Revision as of 17:24, 23 November 2013 by Julia Langer Warren (Talk | contribs)
A beef shoulder typically weighing 14 to 18 pounds. Popular in Texas, where it's seasoned with salt and pepper and smoked for the better part of a day. Clod is the house specialty of Texas Hill Country barbecue joints like the Kreuz Market in Lockhart. Outside of Texas, you're likely to find it at Latino markets.


text: Game room tables provide maximum gaming fun while taking up minimum space. Choose from air hockey, pool tables, multi-game tables, foosball, shuffleboard, dart boards, basketball, ping pong and skeeball. These professional gaming products come with professional delivery and are made of high quality material to last you and your family for years. Enjoy!


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Pilgrimages are an ancient tradition for Christians, and Catholics in the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown Diocese have two opportunities to honor those old ways in this Year of Faith.
The first is a pilgrimage to Rome in July with Bishop Mark L. Bartchak. Participants will have the chance to see Pope Benedict XVI at his summer residence about 15 miles from Rome, said diocesan spokesman Tony DeGol.
The pope isn't usually in residence at the Vatican in July and August so he made special arrangements for the pilgrims from the Altoona-Johnstown diocese to visit his summer residence, known as Castle Gandolfo, DeGol said.
The pope will bestow a special blessing on the group and lead them in the prayer, "The Angelus.''
Father John Slovikovski, who is in charge of Year of Faith activities for the diocese, said the pilgrims from the diocese will be very close to the pope. They will be able to see him from about the same distance as they would if they were halfway inside the interior of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament or from the middle of its center aisle to the altar.
Slovikovski said the pilgrimage to Rome is important because it helps Catholics get back to their roots.
Rome is the place where many of the saints the church is founded upon are buried and where early Christians were persecuted. It is the place where the early church was formed and where those first Christians practiced their faith in the catacombs.
"You are going to the place where the heart of our belief was born,'' he said.
A second pilgrimage is planned for Sept. 14 to the Basilica of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., which is the largest Catholic church in the Americas.
At the basilica, activities will begin with a prayer service followed by reconciliation offered by the bishop and parish priests. Pilgrims will have time to tour the side altars dedicated to Mary, the mother of Jesus. The bishop will preside at Mass at 3 p.m.
The basilica is one of several sites that is part of another feature of the Year of Faith that is also an ancient tradition in the Catholic Church - plenary indulgences.
An indulgence is "a remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven, which the faithful Christian who is duly disposed gains under certain prescribed conditions,'' according to "The Catechism of the Catholic Church.''
Those conditions for the Year of Faith include, for people in the local diocese, making a pilgrimage to the basilica in Washington, D.C., going on the pilgrimage to Rome, or pilgrimages to the Cathedral in Altoona, the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel in Loretto or St. John Gualbert Cathedral in Johnstown.
Those seeking the indulgence must also go to confession within a reasonable period after making the pilgrimage and receive Holy Communion while fully participating at Mass. They must also pray for the intentions of the pope, the Apostle's Creed, the "Our Father'' the "Hail Mary'' and the "Glory Be'' prayers. Prayer cards are available at all diocesan sites.
The pilgrimage to Rome is scheduled for July 8 to 16 and the cost is $3,499. For more information, call 695-5579 and ask for DeGol or visit www.ajdiocese.org and click the pilgrimage to Rome link.
For the pilgrimage to Washington, D.C., parishioners should watch their church bulletins for information on buses and cost.


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