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The Thrill and the Agony
Tour de 'Fans': Who's following Lance? If you haven't watched any of the Tour de France on the Outdoor Life Network, how can you call yourself a sports fan?
Film review roundup
Immigrants navigate London's dark side • 28 Days questions humanity • Pirates
Four new CDs are great world music
Music reviews Remi Bolduc/Kenny Werner, Tchat Coral Egan/Alex Cattaneo, The Path of Least Resistance Various Artists, Euro Lounge
A sons story of survival
If you're a regular reader of this newspaper you may think you know Robert Meeropol's story. Think again.
Sports shorts Sports shorts By Chas Walker
Red Sox and Yankees split series Baseball fans got a close look at the race for the American League East pennant over the past several days, as the Boston Red Sox squared off with the New York Yankees in a four-game series.
Harry Potter and the irresistable read
Review I admit it – I was lured in by the hype. I can be honest about that, that a woman with a college background in critical literary theory, who has done extensive critical writing on the works of Samuel Beckett, Shakespeare, William B. Yeats and Salman Rushdie, was drawn to the new Harry Potter book like a moth to a flame.
Sports shorts
Can LeBron James save Cleveland? / Spurred to victory
Whats a little grease?
Poetry What's a little grease? by Tony Pecinovsky
Hanns Eisler: composer as revolutionary
The cultural worker: "How necessary music is and how important it can be in the greatest struggles for a new world" – Hanns Eisler
Anne Feeney tours Texas
Every Spring, Texas is favored by a whirlwind tour by folk and labor singer Anne Feeney. She travels by car through the state, north to south, to the famous Kerrville Folk Festival. Coming and going, she hits the major cities for impromptu concerts. No venue is too large or small.


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Fixed PriceDelivery by April 15, 2014
I need a contract drawn up.
This contract is between our company and a large blue chip organisation.
The contract should identify timescales, liabilities, project scope, deliverables and any other relevant information.
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Please send examples of your work when applying.
About the Client
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Jobs Posted
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30 Hours

subset: commoncrawl


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MONT BELVIEU - Students and staff at Barbers Hill High School scrambled for cover Monday after dozens of bats invaded the school.
Sophomore Grayson Long said one almost hit him in the head, and junior Terron Hammond said one flew over his head and sent him scurrying for cover.
Workers quickly installed extruder devices that would allow the bats to leave but not enter the school.
- The Associated Press
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The Contour Pillow® This is the pillow that started it all - this is the first Contour Pillow® we made, back in 1991. It features an egg-crate shaped top layer with the "Contour" lobed support foam layer on the bottom. Comes with pillow cover, upgraded premium cover available.
Below are the available bulk discount rates for each individual item when you purchase a certain amount
The famous blue "support core" aligns your head and spine, while white egg-crate foam topper allows for optimum air circulation and comfort. Original contour design supports head and shoulders for all night comfort. Aligns your spine with ergonomic design.
The Contour Pillow® - Orthopedic pillow made of high quality foam that supports and aligns your head and neck in proper posture during the night. Comes with pillowcase and is available in standard, queen and king sizes.
Combine with our famous Original Contour Leg Pillow and save $5! - Add the comfort of the original design foam Contour leg Pillow and experience all over body comfort! The patented design on all of our leg pillows support and align your lower body, relieving pressure on your low back, hips and knees. The pillow fits the curves of your legs, so it comfortably stays with you throughout the night. No more wrestling with that big, bulky pillow!
Plus, this Original Leg Pillow now comes with a super soft velour cover, custom tailored to fit your pillow perfectly.
Showing reviews 1-20 of 28 | Next
Unknown (Submitted on 10th Jul 2016)
~20 years ago I purchased one of the early Contour pillows having the egg shell crate feature but with a yellow foam core, and have been delighted with it.
I bought this "original" pillow online in hopes I could have a "back-up" pillow that provides a similar experience. But I find this "original" pillow with the blue foam core a bit too firm and not as comfortable as my "original" pillow.
I am wondering if the pillow with the yellow foam core is still available. I telephoned the number given on two occasions but was only able to reach voice mail, so I went ahead and purchased online without any information about the difference between the yellow core and blue core "original" pillows.
Lisa (Submitted on 26th Jan 2016)
I ordered one of these years ago and it is my fave. But my old one is softer and narrower - maybe years of smashing? :) The new one i recently ordered is too firm and too tall for me as a back sleeper. Would be fine for a side sleeper.
Inaz (Submitted on 8th Jan 2016)
I've tried several pillows over the years but finally decided this is the best! I've repurchased this same pillow many times.
Unknown (Submitted on 8th Jan 2016)
I've been looking for a very firm contour pillow, but this one was actually too hard for me. I thought from the reviews that maybe I'd finally found one that was firm enough, but it was really too hard. I didn't feel like the contour part was deep enough either.
Sad (Submitted on 7th Jan 2016)
I have gotten 2 of these pillows lately, one standard, one queen. I love the neck support and they can be positioned for varying levels of support, from higher to lower, whatever you require. They are much firmer than most pillows and that is what I need.
Unknown (Submitted on 23rd Jul 2015)
I need solid neck support & this pillow delivers! I get a better night's sleep now. Thanks!
irene cavanagh (Submitted on 22nd Jun 2015)
I purchased a contour pillow a few years ago. I loved it. I bought this new one to replace it. the new one is more like an egg crate, where my old one was smooth and much more comfortable. I am having trouble getting used to this one.
Contour Living Customer (Submitted on 17th Apr 2015)
This pillow provides support and eases the strain on my neck and shoulders while I sleep. I awaken more refreshed and less stiff than with other pillows.
Contour Living Customer (Submitted on 9th Apr 2015)
i have been having trouble with waking up headaches and a stiff neck ever since i got my contour pillow i have not had a headache or stiff neck its the best pillow ever.
Zeron (Submitted on 24th Feb 2015)
I did not use the item because when I got it, I saw how thin it was & when I squeezed it, it was so hard it would probably hurt if you slept on it. I would not use it. In 2004, I bought 2 pillows from this company & I still have them. They are great. I am trying to return this one but I have received no reply from the company. Not happy at all.
Customer Service Response:
I am sorry the product did not work out for you as expected. You can contact us directly at 800-950-0230 and we would be happy to assist you further.
Donna (Submitted on 29th Jan 2015)
I was looking for a pillow with good head/neck support which this pillow provides, but it is a little too hard. I can't sleep on my back with it because it is so hard. Am considering returning it.
Patti (Submitted on 28th Jan 2015)
My previous contour pillow wore out so I had to replace it with a new one. Since the new one arrived I slept wonderfully and comfortably. I love my pillow!
Contour Living Customer (Submitted on 17th Jan 2015)
It took me a couple of nights to get used to the pillow, because it feels very firm. However, my neck and back feel great!
Contour Living Customer (Submitted on 18th Sep 2014)
Have been using contour cloud pillows for many years. However, the one I recently ordered is a much firmer pillow .
I prefer a little give to my pillow
This pillow is like sleeping on a brick. Very unhappy with it
Contour Living Customer (Submitted on 16th Jul 2014)
After purchasing several different pillows I finally found THE one that is best for me! I like the support it gives whether I'm sleeping on my side or back!
Becky Torres (Submitted on 8th Jul 2014)
I super excited to find this original contour pillow online. I have tried numerous contour memory foam pillows and found they just were too soft. So when I found this original egg crate pillow, I thought wow! Now I can have the support I want. HMM, not likely. This is the hardest most uncomfortable pillow out there. Come on guys, I just want a good supportive pillow that allows me to wake up without aches and pains.
Wayne (Submitted on 6th Jul 2014)
I tried memory foam pillows, but they're too hard and hot. This is the only pillow that is soft, cool, and gets rid of my neck and back pain.
Dianne (Submitted on 3rd Jun 2014)
I am looking for a pillow that is NOT memory foam, they are too heavy and compress too much, but this one is too hard. I like the egg crate top but the foam underneath is little too dense and unforgiving
Contour Living Customer (Submitted on 29th May 2014)
I love this pillow! I had been without it for a year and realize that it is the only one for me!
William D. Mason Sr (Submitted on 27th May 2014)
My wife needed a new pillow and since I first bought one in 1993 and still sleep on it, we decided to order one for her and one for a spare. Love my contour pillow.
Showing reviews 1-20 of 28 | Next


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With temperatures reaching 39°C, Chinese Special Forces equipped with search dogs and rifles marched through the flush and humid wilderness of Gele Mountain on the outskirts of Chongqing, China's southwestern hub.
The local police called in the military to join efforts to catch a serial killer who is rumored to have acquired his lethal skills in Burma. Early Tuesday morning, the manhunt ended in his death by gunshot.
Zhou Kehua, a 42-year-old native of Chongqing, was one of China's most wanted men, accused of at least nine murders in three Chinese provinces since 2004. In January, police in vain set up roadblocks around the eastern city of Nanjing in an attempt to capture Zhou after a fatal robbery. Local media reports at the time said that the robber's weapon, a Type 54 pistol, was of Burmese origin.
Last Friday, he was filmed by security cameras shooting dead a woman and wounding two men in a robbery in his home district of Shapingba in Chongqing. Zhou also killed a 29-year old policeman who stopped him for questioning on Saturday.
The ensuing search led to the discovery of his hideout cave in Gele Mountain on the city's outskirts. The area was cordoned off as the nation's largest manhunt this year diverted public attention from China's Olympic performance and raised questions on how a man with little school education could evade the nation's security apparatus for almost a decade.
On Tuesday morning, the state-run Xinhua news agency reported that "Zhou was killed at the scene by police at Wosungou in Tongjiaqiao Village in Qinjiagang Township of Chongqing's Shapingba District at 6:50 am."
The Chongqing Times reported that eight policemen found Zhou's body indicating suicide, sparking rumors that the state-run agency misreported the end of the high-profile manhunt. The local daily has since deleted this post on its microblog.
"Without efficiency from the police, China's public security could not be guaranteed and the country would be in chaos," wrote the Beijing-based Chinese Communist Party mouthpiece The Global Times in an editorial on Tuesday.
"Without the reform of the police system, China's progress will be affected."
The Ministry of Public Security had placed Zhou on its "A" wanted list, the highest level, and asked for assistance by the military to catch the serial killer. The bounty for Zhou's capture offered by several local governments amounted to 5.4 million yuan (US $850,000) according to Xinhua.
The question of how Zhou evaded the authorities for so long and several hints in news reports including the gun of alleged Burmese origin led to speculation about training received when he lived in Burma.
Xinhua indicated that Zhou had spent time in Burma by citing unidentified sources in Chongqing. In a separate report, the news agency reported on Monday that Zhou had been jailed in 2005 in Yunnan, the Chinese province bordering Burma, for trafficking firearms, citing a local police officer.
The serial killer spent three years in Burma as a mercenary, Pu Yongjian, a Chongqing-based economics scholar, wrote in a post on his Weibo microblog, the Chinese equivalent to Twitter, on Saturday. "He has real battle experience and is able to survive in the wild." Pu also lives in Shapingba District, although his assertion could not be independently verified.
"Zhou may have had a military background, giving him skills that have proved useful in evading capture," The Global Times speculated on Monday. Yet Police denied that Zhou has ever received training in the Chinese security apparatus in a statement carried by the Xinhua news agency on the same day.
Cross-border crime—especially the trafficking of firearms, drugs and humans—continues to flourish at the porous boundary between China's Yunnan Province and Burma's Kachin and northern Shan states.
Armed police roadblocks are a daily sight along the Chinese side of the frontier. "The level of violence has increased," the deputy head of the Yunnan's security department Yan Shangzhi said during a press conference in March.
Chinese Rambo or Burmese Rambo?
We burmese never do the bad things. Please don't insult to us this way.
We need apology for what what you have mentioned 'Burma-trained".
Thats great, Burma now Myanmar can train people like Zhou to protect from enemies of the ordinary people. Maybe he is a hero to all Burmese living in the border areas of Myanmar– to kill either for ones survival or for freedom and rights .
How can a highly sophisticated Chinese criminal get trained in a low tech Buddhist Myanmar? He should have been trained with al-Qaeda in Afghanstan. Please leave Myanmar alone.
So, send two thousand Tibetans to Burma to train to take care of Chinese who invaded Tibet for neo-colonialism.
Albert said Burmese never do bad things. Ha ha ha shame on you. Your trouser is loose and your butt is out everyone can see it. You still said that your are not naked. You want to be with your notorous military leader and suck the poor peolple blood like a mosquito all the time. You can never hide your bad things even your face still smile to the world. Shame on you…
Sorry my friend. Don't mix up with the other issue. I just want to discuss this matter. I know what you mean. We are not talking about notorious military leaders in this topic. Just saying about "burma-trained"chinese serial killer. Burma low-tech than other countries. How can that be happened? Please zip up my trouser so that no can see my butt.
Isn't he a Chinese born in China?
Living in Burma – while on the run and only for three years as well – couldn't make him a Rambo of course.
This is one among many HARD EVIDENCES in VIEW that Communist China's SECURITY SYSTEM is as CORRUPT as the Chinese cadres and that Chinese woman – wife of a high ranking Chinese Communist as well – who just killed a British businessman for his money.
Don't worry we will get back to the ethnic Chinese FENCE JUMPERS after we deal with the guys from Bangladesh trust me.


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Having over 33 years experience in accounting and finance, I've heald the Chief Financial Officer position in a variety of companies.
Currently I am a "leased" Chief Financial Officer for The Barber Shop Studios Cutting Edge in Sound Design, a state-of-the-art recording studio in Hopatcong NJ; Waffle Makers Productions, a full-service music production company serving producers, professional songwriters, artists, and publishers worldwide; Dream Makers Music LLC, an owner of artist recording contracts, publishing companies, and joint venture development deals; Dream Makers MP3, an internet based music distribution and talent showcase for the up and coming musician in all genre of music; Dream Makers Music, a recording company; Riverstyx Properties LLC, a real estate holding and property management company. I am also the principal of Farrell and Associates LLC, a management and financial consulting firm that provides professional services to several high tech and entrepreneurial companies in Northern New Jersey.
My early business involvement was primarily in Fortune 500 companies. After a 10 year stint with E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company , I became interested in a more entrepreneurial environment with assignments ranging from biomedical research to computerized testing equipment for the military and other companies.
I holdsa BS degree in accounting and management science from Kean University and a MBA in finance from the Rand Graduate School of Business-Lincoln University Currently, Steve is working on an MS degree at Thomas Edison State College in the field of International Finance. I am also a Certified Business Manager and a member of the Institute of Management Accountants. I am a published author in the field of personal computers and accounting.
An Eagle Scout and Scoutmaster, I have been involved in the Boy Scouts of America for over 48.5 years. I am an Executive Officer and Treasurer and sit on the Board of Directors for the Northern NJ Council. Active in my community,I am also a member of the Rotary International.


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Created in this Craftsy class
Art Quilting 101: Design Basics taught by Wendy Butler Berns
Embrace the art quilter within and learn to see the world through the eyes of an artist, doodle with free-motion quilting and add texture.
Other projects made as part of this class:
QuiltingAbandoned Garden Wall Hanging
QuiltingQuilted Fabric Beaded Greeting Cards
QuiltingHello, Autumn!
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This just makes me happy! Thanks for sharing
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When we give our self's the task of a self portrait... it is so fun to see where it leads! thanks for sharing!
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On Thursday, Obama for American released a new television advertisement, titled "Son of Boss," that asks the same questions Americans are asking – questions that are especially relevant given voters' heightened attention in this election to the fate of their own tax rates, and the central role tax reform will play in the next administration.
Tag Archive for Taxes
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Daly and Martinez plan to fund education with an All Cuts State Budget
by Dan Chmielewski •
With the prospect of a $16 billion budget shortfall facing the state, we thought we'd review the positions of the top three candidates in the 69th Assembly contest on the Governor's proposed tax increases.
Santorum Pulls Out; Romney Hides Tax Returns
by Dan Chmielewski •
Two pieces of Republican news. Former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum has pulled out (insert your own joke here) of the GOP Presidential race and has "suspended" his campaign. One can surmise that Santorum mightnot be able to recover losing his home state to Republican front runner Mitt Romney. Read details of Santorum's pull out here.…
Kelly Thomas No Longer Focal Point of Fullerton Recall
by Dan Chmielewski •
The deadline for turning in more than 10,500+ valid signatures looms before the FullertonRecall group seeking to oust three conservative members of the Fullerton City Council, but the Voice of OC reported today that the Kelly Thomas beating death, which prompted the action, is no longer the focus of the recall effort. And while Kelly's…
LA Times: Myths and Facts about California Taxes, Spending and Government
by Dan Chmielewski •
LA Times columnist George Skleton lays it all out for us with his column in Monday's newspaper. There's a perception of runnaway government, massive overspending and sky-high taxes and then, there's reality. Things are about the same as they were when Ronald Reagan was government. Things are different, certainly, but in dollars and cents (not…
Don't Let Facts Get in the Way of Changing Your Mind
by Dan Chmielewski •
"I glanced through the stuff you gave me. While I did not fact check it…or even finish it, I do not believe that it contains all of the governmental fees, taxes on corporations, import, export, excise, permitting…etc, etc, etc…that all gets passed along to us. You may be right about state and federal income tax rates, but the statistics that I have seen indicate that 50% of the GDP goes to government ultimately in one form or another.
Tea Bagger Zombies Must Die: the web videogame causes a stir
by Dan Chmielewski •
If you liked the first person shooter videogame "Doom" circa 1994, and you're to the left of center, you will love this online videogame "TeaBagger Zombies Must Die." It's not a slick as some of today's video games, but it's bound to make you laugh. The Right Wing Media are losing their minds over this…


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Life is full of surprises. That's why we offer a short-term stay program for those in need of speedy recoveries.
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Victoria Defrancesco Soto: Ringing in the new year with mass deportation raids – what the heck are some of the folks in the Obama administration thinking? That is the question Democrats must be pondering as we go into 2016.In this climate there is really no danger of a Latino Republican vote surge. At the most, some Latinos close to the issue of immigration will stay home.
Liberals Need to Stop Making Excuses for Obama
Mary Dudziak: The more we explain away failures during Obama's presidency as the inevitable consequence of political structures, the more we put off an urgent analysis of the failures of the president himself.
2016: The Empire Strikes Back
Sikivu Hutchinson: If President Obama squanders the energy and direction of this newly galvanized constituency with more corporate toadyism and welfare for the super-rich 2012 will be the last gasp before 2016's full court GOP insurgency
Dreamers Sign Up: A Great Day for Activism – and for America
Randy Shaw: Obama implemented his "most ambitious immigration initiative" in response to both growing Latino political power and the courageous and inspiring grassroots pressure from young DREAM ACTivists.
Top 10 Most Read Led by "Blaming Schools and Teachers"
Topping this week's list is, once again, Mark Naison, the Fordham University professor and editor of With a Brooklyn Accent, who writes so passionately on issues of education and race..
"Self-Deportation" Devastates Families and Communities
Michele Waslin: Attrition through enforcement — "self-deportation" — has gone from being a catchy phrase coined by immigration restrictionists to a frightening reality in many parts of the U.S.
Ten Years After 9/11, Is the U.S. Deporting Those Who Threaten to Do Us Harm?
Michele Waslin: Confirming what advocates had reported, while the overall number of deportations has increased, the actual numbers of deportations of terrorists, national security threats, and criminals have declined.
Congressional Candidate's Husband May Face Deportation
Paul Hogarth: As the Administration now refuses to defend DOMA – again, thanks to activists giving him heat – the anti-gay legislation is still used as a basis for deporting immigrant spouses of U.S. citizens.
Elected on Hope, Obama Governs Through Fear
Randy Shaw: Obama ran for president preaching hope and rejecting appeals to fear, but now has become exactly what he railed against.
For Obama Defenders, Words Speak Louder Than Actions
Randy Shaw: Obama's history includes many great speeches advocating for "change we can believe in," but as even his most fervid admirers acknowledge, his governance has been quite different.
LA Progressive — July 25 to 31, 2010
Articles by Jules Siegel, Wendy Block, Robert Reich, Randy Shaw, Ivan Eland, Michele Waslin, Steve Hochstadt, Tina Dupuy, Norman Soloman, Gene Rothman, Andrea Nill, Randy Shaw, Will Coiley, Michael Sigman, Paul Hogarth, Shamus Cooke, Peter Dreier, Robert Reich, Diane Lefer, Sharon Kyle, Ivan Eland, Matthew Kavanagh, Jonathan David Farley,Rev. Irene Monroe, Georgianne Nienaber, Jerry Drucker, Anthony Samad, Sherwood Ross, Michael Sigman, and Tom Degan
Restrictionists Confounded by Increased Deportations and the Administration's Defense of the Constitution
Michele Waslin: ICE expects to deport about 400,000 people this fiscal year, which is nearly 10 percent more than the Bush administration's 2008 total and 25 percent more than were deported in 2007.
ICE Slip Up Casts Serious Doubt on Immigration Enforcement Strategy
Michele Waslin: Until we have comprehensive immigration reform, ICE is going to be saddled with an enormous list of targets, and many people watching to see how they're going to tackle it. If they want big numbers, they can achieve big numbers. But that won't make us any safer or make the system any better. In any case the Administration and ICE have to figure out what their enforcement strategy is, articulate it clearly and consistently, and resist the urge to change it on a dime to please "enforcement-only" types who will never support comprehensive reform.


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Noble Roman Coins is pleased to announce that we have published a new free cleaning guide
"The Art of Cleaning and the Restoration of Ancient Coins and Artifacts"
If you are having any loading or check out issues with our shop, we suggest that you use either FireFox or Google Chrome as your browser!
Our True Premium Uncleaned Coins are now SOLD OUT! Our Premium Uncleaned Coins from the Balkans are now SOLD OUT!
NRC does not expect any more of these coins until mid-late October.
Member Product Comments are always appreciated...Good Coins/Bad Coins, whatever - were you happy or not? Let Us Know!
All are invited to our new Facebook Page... Noble Roman Coins! Don't be shy to post your thoughts and photos!
Not sure about you, but we have problems remembering the exact locations of all the Roman mints.
Click Here to go to a map.
Now Available for Free Download - NRC's award-winning eBook, 'The Art of Cleaning Ancient Coins' is now translated into Spanish - 'El Arte de La Limpieza De Las Monedas Antiguas'. Click Here for English/Spanish.
Sheri, your 'Underwater Photo Goddess', now has an awesome video from our last diving vacation in the Philippines ready for viewing. Click Here for the HD YouTube Video.
Happy Hunting and Cleaning from Kevin and Sheri!
A Duo of Silver Brooch Fragments, c. 2nd-3rd Cent AD


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Everyone is invited...awesome Poetry & Spoken Word Circle....meeting for over 8 Years!!
Every 3rd Sunday of every month...come and see why!!
It's an awesome Eclectic group of Poets and Poet Supporters. Everyone is welcome!!! If you are a seasoned published poet come share and give back:) If you are a first timer or a closet poet come out and check it out. It's a cool vibe!
It's a place where you can express and grow as an artist.
Complete Freedom of Artistic Expression
Bring your books, cd's and anything else you want to share or sell.
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It's a FREE event but if you can bring a snack or beverage to share that would be real cool!
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text: Ruby Tuesday, Inc. Reports Third Quarter ResultsWednesday April 2, 4:15 pm ET MARYVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ruby Tuesday, Inc. today reported diluted earnings per share of $0.23 on net income of $11.7 million for the Company's third quarter of fiscal 2008, which ended on March 4, 2008. This compares to diluted earnings per share of $0.49 on net income of $28.7 million for the third quarter of the prior year. The diluted earnings per share impact of costs associated with the Company's remodel initiative in the third quarter of fiscal 2008 was $0.06. Quarterly HighlightsThird quarter fiscal 2008 same-restaurant sales at Company-owned Ruby Tuesday restaurants decreased 12.7%, while same-restaurant sales at domestic franchise Ruby Tuesday restaurants decreased 12.0%, as compared to a decrease of 1.0% and an increase of 1.8% at Company-owned and domestic franchise Ruby Tuesday restaurants, respectively, in the third quarter of the prior year. The Company estimates the third quarter of fiscal 2008 was negatively impacted by approximately 0.6% and 0.8% at Company-owned and domestic franchise Ruby Tuesday restaurants, respectively, due to heavier winter weather than in the same period of the prior year.Third quarter fiscal 2008 same-restaurant sales: December January February Third Quarter Company-Owned -12.5% -14.2% -11.5% -12.7% Domestic Franchise -12.7% -13.4% -9.8% -12.0% Other highlights for the 13-week third quarter:Total revenue decreased 7.1% from the same period of the prior year. The Company opened six new Ruby Tuesday restaurants while six were closed during the quarter. Domestic and international franchisees opened two new Ruby Tuesday restaurants during thehttp://biz.yahoo.com/bw/080402/20080402006376.html?.v=1


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Interstate 70 traffic was detoured through Meeker, Craig, Hayden, Steamboat and Oak Creek Wednesday as Glenwood Canyon was closed for helicopter operations associated with the ongoing rockfall mitigation project in the canyon. The Canyon was expected to also be closed Thursday, but that closure has been canceled as ideal Continue reading
Tag Archives: Oak Creek
UPDATE – I70 Traffic Detoured Through NW Colorado
Three Teens Arrested Near Yampa Following Armed Carjacking
Northwest Colorado law enforcement agencies received information Thursday regarding three male teens that were wanted for a series of crimes out of the Aurora, Colorado area including one incident of armed carjacking. The teens were reported to be armed and dangerous. Around 1 Friday afternoon, Routt County Communications received information that one of the teens cell phones had been pinged somewhere in the Oak Creek area. Continue reading
Posted in News
Tagged 3 teens, arrest, arrested, Aurora, carjacking, cell phone, cert, charged, county road 7, firearm, gun, House, Oak Creek, ping, Routt County, south routt, surrender, team, teens, three teens, Yampa
Friday Night State Wrestling Results
Friday's Semi Final and 2nd Round Consolation Results
Moffat County
132 – Issik Herod – won 2-0
170 – Mikinzie Klimper – won 17-5
182 – Hugo Hernandez – won 11-3
195 – Brett Loyd – lost 8-5 (out of tournament)
220 – Stelios Peroulis – won 4-1
Steamboat Springs
106 – Colton Pasternak – won 3-2
132 – Dakota Thvedt – lost 6-4 (out of tournament)
160 – Hayden Johnson – won (in championship final) Continue reading
Posted in News
Tagged championship, Craig, finals, friday, Hayden, high school, Meeker, Moffat County, Oak Creek, Rangely, results, SoRoCo, State, Steamboat Springs, wrestle, wrestling
Wrestlers Find Success In Day One Of State Tournament
Northwest Colorado wrestlers got off to a great start Thursday in the preliminary rounds of the state tournament, as over two thirds of area wrestlers advanced to the Championship Quarterfinals. Half of those wins were by pin. With a win in the Quarterfinals, wrestlers will advance to the semi-finals and are guaranteed to place at the state tournament. Eight wrestlers lost in the first round and will move into the first round of the consolation matches. Team Meeker ended the day in 2nd place just 2 and 1/2 points back from the leader, Rocky Ford. Moffat County is in 10th place. Action resumes Friday morning at 10 beginning Continue reading
Posted in News
Tagged championship, Craig, Hayden, Meeker, Moffat County, Oak Creek, Rangely, SoRoCo, State, Steamboat, tournament, west grand, wrestling
Detoured Traffic To Continue Through NW Colorado
I-70 through Glenwood Canyon will remain closed at least through midday tomorrow following a rock slide that damaged the roadway and left massive boulders on the highway. The Colorado Department of Transportation plans to begin moving traffic though the canyon sometime tomorrow by operating a single-lane alternating traffic pattern that could remain in place for several days while repairs and rock stabilization continues. Yesterday, crews began the process of evaluating the walls of the Continue reading
I-70 Traffic Detoured Through NW Colorado
Traffic though Craig, Steamboat, Oak Creek, Hayden and Meeker will be heavy today due to a Rock slide that closed I-70 in the Glenwood Canyon. Westbound I-70 traffic will be detoured to Highway 131 from Walcott to Highway 40 at Steamboat, through Craig, then South on Continue reading
Posted in News
Tagged CDOT, closure, Craig, detour, Hayden, Highway 131, Highway 40, I-70, Meeker, Oak Creek, rock slide, rockslide, Steamboat, traffic
Wintry Weather To Add To Snowpack This Weekend.
With another 4 to 8 inches of snow expected his weekend, speculation that we are getting a lot more snow than usual will continue. Another theory is that the ongoing cold temperatures have kept the existing snowpack from melting, causing the snow to pile high and resulting in narrowed streets and snow mountains all over town. The fact is that both have contributed to the amount of snow on Continue reading
Halloween is Tomorrow
Tomorrow is Halloween, and there are plenty of activities going on in Northwest Colorado. Organized trick or treating will take place in downtown Craig and the Centennial Mall from 4 to 6 tomorrow. The Steamboat Downtown Stroll is from 5 to 7. In Meeker, Pumpkins, Eats, and Treats takes place on the courthouse lawn. That Continue reading
Accident Takes Life of Steamboat Woman
A rollover accident about 5 miles northeast of Oak Creek on Routt County Road 16 took the life of a 23 year old woman Saturday evening. Troopers say Heidi Cordell of Steamboat was on a downhill curve when it went off the road and Continue reading
Posted in News
Tagged fatal injuries, Heidi Cordell, Oak Creek, rollover accident, Routt County Road 16, seatbelt, Steamboat
All Routes to Denver to Include Delays this Summer
Moffat County Commissioner Chuck Grobe, yesterday, announced that the Colorado Department of Transportation will be working on all routes to Denver over the next year. Grobe Continue reading
Partial Solar Eclipse This afternoon
A rare opportunity to view a partial solar eclipse will occur this afternoon across much of the country, including Colorado and Wyoming. A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes in front of the sun, with total eclipse leaving just the corona visible while a partial eclipse, which we will see today, will produce a crescent-shaped sun. For eye safety reasons do not directly look at the sun with the naked eye. In Colorado and Wyoming the Solar eclipse will start around 3:15 this afternoon, with the greatest eclipse expected around 4:30 and ending at 5:45. Almost 50% of the sun is expected to be obscured at maximum eclipse.
– Viewing safety information.
– Additional information about today's solar eclipse.
Posted in News
Tagged Baggs, Coloardo, Craig, Hayden, Meeker, Oak Creek, partial solar eclipse, Rangely, Solar Eclipse, Steamboat Springs, Wyoming
First National Bank of the Rockies Changes Hands
One of the oldest banks in northwest Colorado begins a new chapter this week when 10 First National Bank of the Rockies branches are renamed Bank of the San Juans following an acquisition by Montana-based Glacier Bancorp Inc. Bank officials say customers will notice few changes at the Grand Junction, Steamboat, Continue reading


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Mother of 3 boys. Neal Shapiro's wife. Correspondent at ABC News. Star trek fan. Mediocre tennis player. Serial dieter. Not in that order.
Face Tags
Me, prepping for air on @Nightline Minutes away @BillWeirABC including intv w red hot @sofiavegara
Spent the day in DC for ABC'S Million Moms Challenge http://abcn.ws/pJIGPq w/ Chelsea Clinton 4 CGIU + Christy Turlington Burns 4 every mom count!
@Nightline My 10, 7 and 3 yr old boys are OBSESSED with @bigtimerush. #Tweens #CelebritySecrets
Tonight on ABC @Nightline at 10pm, I sit down with tween rock stars @bigtimerush
who are in the giddy first blush of fame (my 10, 7 and 3 yr old boys are OBSESSED)
You've never seen @DENISE_RICHARDS so candid. This single mom with a newly adopted baby opens up … tonight on Primetime @Nightline 10p on ABC
Is it my imagination? Or is @torianddean a normal hands on mom? See for yourself on Primetime @Nightline 10p on ABC
@torianddean @Nightline @DENISE_RICHARDS @rzrachelzoe Hi Tory, here is a photo of you and me.
"It's BANANAS!"@rzrachelzoe undergoes a major makeover courtesy of baby Skyler. Tonight Primetime @Nightline 10p ABC
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Local News
Appeals Court allows AT&T cell tower near BWCAWAssociated Press (AP)-
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Reversing a lower court, the Minnesota Court of Appeals says AT&T can build a 450-foot cellphone tower with flashing lights that would be visible within parts of the Bound
NWS forecast: Rain, rain -- then sunshine-
The week ahead holds a lot of rain, then it'll warm up and the weekend is looking good. WTIP' Jay Andersen spoke with National Weather Service meteorologist Mike Stewart.
Weekend News Roundup for June 16-
Each weekend WTIP news produces a round up of the news stories they've been following this week.
A glitch for the Fourth parade-
It looks like use of Wisconsin Street is going to require a county permit at $100.
Domestic violence can increase in tough economic times-
Domestic violence is prone to increase during tough economic times. WTIP's Jay Andersen spoke with Violence Prevention Center director Jodi Yuhasey about domestic violence in Cook County.
NRDC report: Poisoning the Great Lakes-
Poisoning the Great Lakes: 25 Coal-fired Power Plants Responsible for Half the Region's Mercury Pollution
Projections boosted for copper mine near ElyAssociated Press (AP)-
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The company planning a copper-nickel mine near Ely has boosted its estimates of how much metal it's sitting on.
Expect near normal precipitation and temperatures overall this summer-
Sunday night's thunderstorms didn't dump heavy rains or big winds on Cook County as they did elsewhere. However, they ushered in a cool front after a hot Sunday.
Community Center public input meeting Tuesday-
A Public Input Meeting on the new Cook County Community Center is scheduled for 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 5 at the ISD #166 campus in Grand Marais.
Weekend News Roundup for June 2-
Each weekend WTIP news produces a round up of the news stories they've been following this week.


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Top Definition
n. The conversation that happens after making out/sex. It's infinitely better than normal conversation because there's touching involved.
During pillow talk I asked him about his family.
by The Grammar Nazi June 11, 2002
Trending Now
Can you define these popular missing words?
Pillow Talk can be any variety of things. It can be before or after being intimate, or without that at all. The point of pillow talk, though, is for two people to enjoy each other's presence through conversation, in a somewhat spontaneous way, but in a way that will let both parties go to bed with clear heads.
After pillow talk, my heart rate dropped by half.
by THeel May 04, 2006
sweet and inviting talk that really has no point, but its so good. doesnt have to be sexual nor follow anything sexual, cute talk between those rested on pillows.
<something totally sweet> (not sharing my pillow talk on here.)
by celina February 14, 2004
intimate talk between lovers while lying in bed after copulating
She tiptoed out of the bedroom after the pillow talk was over.
by The Return of Light Joker May 21, 2008
The silly chats you have after having sex. generally a lot of nonsence but is a way of holding onto those amazing moment when you can be close to somebody!
i love having pillow talk, we can say anything and giggle
by spaner January 14, 2011
The phenomenon of a woman attempting to speak to a sleeping man after sex.
"Hey Hanna, what's your pillow talk like with Berend?"
"Oh it's great, it's the only time of day that he listens to me patiently"
"Oh it's great, it's the only time of day that he listens to me patiently"
by Erna January 22, 2014
Having a conversation with someone special after hours, sharing information that shouldn't have been shared or exchanging words that you don't necessarily mean, they were only shared because you were in the moment.
Him: I wanna marry you one day.
Her: Stop pillow talking me!
Her: Stop pillow talking me!
by Jassy5116 July 21, 2016


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Russian Bill on Holocaust Denial Prompts Anti-Jew Feedbacks
The Russian lower house is considering a new bill proposing to five years in prison for publicly denying the Holocaust or portraying Nazis as heroes, the Russian RT.com website reported, but Feedbacks revealed overwhelming anti-Jewish hate.
The current Russian law only outlaws Nazi movements and incitement of racial and ethnic hatred.
The sponsor of the bill is Boris Shpigel, who was and Upper House member who had to resign in order to be allowed to served as president of international rights group '"World without Nazism,."
The new bill would also allow for the imposition of a fine from $3,300-$10,000m in addition to jail, for portraying Nazis or their aides as heroes, for Holocaust denial and for humiliating the dignity of individuals or groups on the basis of gender, race, ethnicity, language, background, religion or belonging to a social group.
Judging by a random sample of 328 Feedbacks to the article on the Russian site, there is a lot of hatred of Jews out there.
Some choice comments, with unedited spellings, were:
— I thought Russia is safe from jews now but big surpise the cochraches are all over and moving again;
–as satan the father of lies is hiding from the dark so do the jews of being exposed from the treth;
–My grandfather fought in WW2, and freed a concentration camp, it's not a lie.
— USA converted jew to christianity Brother Nathaneal fights zionist in america..God bless him
— The Russian people suffered most at the hands of the jews. These laws are being pushed by the jews.
Tzvi Ben-Gedalyahu
About the Author: Tzvi Ben Gedalyahu is a graduate in journalism and economics from The George Washington University. He has worked as a cub reporter in rural Virginia and as senior copy editor for major Canadian metropolitan dailies. Tzvi wrote for Arutz Sheva for several years before joining the Jewish Press.
If you don't see your comment after publishing it, refresh the page.
Our comments section is intended for meaningful responses and debates in a civilized manner. We ask that you respect the fact that we are a religious Jewish website and avoid inappropriate language at all cost.
If you promote any foreign religions, gods or messiahs, lies about Israel, anti-Semitism, or advocate violence (except against terrorists), your permission to comment may be revoked.


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------Taking in is happier than letting out.
Central Coast of NSW, Australia
------My (overly complicated) blog: http://maggiedoll.com/
------I don't really make mistakes ... I create "learning opportunities"! Murphy says: The better you match the thread to the fabric, the more likely you will need to rip some stitches out! I spend more quality time with my seamripper than I like ...
Yes, I DO love fabric!!
Happy owner of a band of Brothers: LX-3125, CS-770, CE5500 PRW, a PE-770 emb ... and now Kenmore 158.18032 and 148.12190
Blogging my "learning opportunites" at http://sewingmissadventure.blogspot.com/
------my shield and my very great reward ~ Gen. 15:1
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Some people are so poor, the only thing they have is money." ~ Seen on a t-shirt worn by a young missionary in India
------Proud parent of a Dwight International School Honour Roll Student
"I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." Thomas Edison
"I not only use all the brains I have, but all I can borrow." Woodrow Wilson
2015 inventory:
Yards sewn: 15
Yards purchased: 0
"People....so much bigger on the inside." Doctor Who, "The Doctor's Wife," 6.04, by Neil Gaiman.
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Andrew hasn't shared anything with you.
People are more likely to share with you if you add them to your circles.
Bianca Linta
Romanian DJ/Singer based in NYC
FEATURES:- Enjoy magazine style layout in the tablet version - Automatically share photos to an Event with Party Mode - Turn on Auto Backup
Man of Steel 3D
Clark Kent, a young reporter, roams the world covering news stories, but returns home to face his destiny - to become Superman.
Top Gear
These commercial pages from BBC Worldwide help to fund new BBC programmes.
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PadMapper - Chrome Web Store
Search apartments on many different sites at once, with a Google Maps interface and powerful filters and overlays.
Magic Actions for YouTube™ - Chrome Web Store
The most convenient way to watch videos! Get extra features like Mouse Wheel Volume Control, AutoHD, Cinema Mode, OSD, and more!
Official eBay Android App
The Official eBay Android App Get the power of eBay in the palm of your hand. Easily browse, shop, sell and manage your eBay activity wherev
Bipedal Cycling Robot Can Balance, Steer and Correct Itself
Robot creator Masahiko Yamaguchi has demonstrated a robot which can balance, steer and correct itself while riding a fixed-gear bike."A feat
Europe to `Fall Apart' in 2012, Mauldin Says - Video
John Mauldin, president of Millennium Wave Investments LLC, and Thomas Brown, chief executive officer at Second Curve Capital and a Bloomber
Wilwood Dynapro 6-Piston Big Brake Front Kit - Honda/Acura - JDM Honda P...
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One Of The Greatest Speeches Ever Made | Break.com
In a 70 year old comedy, Charlie Chaplin plays the role of a poor Jewish barber mistaken for Adolph Hitler. This is a speech Charlie gives
Hottest Dance Battle Ever | Break.com
A dance battle erupts in this studio between two champion dancers. It was an epic moment that spectators will tell their kids about-- when t
ContourGPS HD Camera - JDM Honda Parts USA - JHPUSA
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The QR Code Generator - Chrome Web Store
Generates QR Codes from free text, URLs, phone numbers, SMS messages, or contacts (vcard).
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Top Gear mag calls Galloway's roads some of the best to drive in UK - Lo...
A FIVE-page article published in this month's Top Gear Magazine calls the roads of Galloway some of the best to be driven in the UK.


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The Independent Investor: Millennials & Money
Recent studies indicate our nation's youth are not investing in the stock markets. That's nothing new. It takes a rare individual under the age of 30 to have the wisdom to invest at a young age. For those who do, their future could be golden.
A recent survey by Banknote.com, a personal finance company, found that just 26 percent of individuals under the age of 30 are investing in stocks. That number hits home when we compare it to the 58 percent of people between the ages of 50 and 64, who do invest in the stock market.
Part of this lack of interest in stocks can be attributed to young people's attitude toward aging, retirement and death. When I was that age, I was invincible. Like me, at that age, the young believe they have all the time in the world to save. The younger you are the more difficult it is to identify with the concept of someday becoming too old to work.
But those attitudes account for only some of the reasons that under 30s shy away from investing, according to the survey. It appears that a lack of money and investment knowledge are also two important barriers to investing within this age group. Scarcity of funds in this day and age is understandable.
Between the financial crisis, income inequality, and the high cost of education, many young people cannot afford a place of their own, let alone the money to save and invest. Putting away even $100/month when you are unemployed or underemployed is a daunting challenge.
Their lack of investment knowledge simply underscores my contention that neither parents nor schools are teaching our children the importance of saving and investing (see my columns on "Kids and Money," Parts I & II). Millennials are simply not equipped with the practical knowledge they need to make investment decisions once they are earning a paycheck.
It is a shame, because the absolute best time to begin saving is in your 20s. The most valuable asset these potential investors own is time. Another powerful tool at their disposal is compounding growth. Just how powerful is it?
Consider this: it will usually require just 10 years (using a 7 percent nominal rate of return) for an investment account to double. Just imagine what one dollar invested at the age of 20 would be worth by the time retirement time rolls around 45 years later. Many young people make the mistake of thinking that when they are 40 and making the big bucks they will make up for lost time when it comes to retirement savings. Wrong! The $100 a month saved when you are 25 is worth much more than the same amount saved at 40 years of age because compounding rewards early contributions much more than later contributions.
Let's say your annual income is $30,000 a year and you decide to save 10 percent of your estimated after-tax income ($2,160). In 25 years those contributions will grow to $288,001 using a 12 percent annual return, which is the long-term return of the U.S. stock market. If you put that money into a pre-tax IRA, that amount would be exponentially larger.
Unfortunately, few Millennials will heed this advice and fewer still read my columns. So, do your kid a favor and pass this column on to him or her. They will thank you for it later.
Bill Schmick is registered as an investment adviser representative with Berkshire Money Management. Bill's forecasts and opinions are purely his own. None of the information presented here should be construed as an endorsement of BMM or a solicitation to become a client of BMM. Direct inquires to Bill at 1-888-232-6072 (toll free) or email him at firstname.lastname@example.com.
The Independent Investor: Avian Flu Scrambles the Egg Business
By now, most Americans are familiar with the avian flu but its impact on your pocketbook may not be as well known. Here is what we know so far.
Egg producers have been walloped. Nearly 6 percent of America's "layer" hens have been destroyed. That's a lot of chicken, given that last year there were 362 million of those birds in the U.S., which produced 100 billion eggs. What's that going to mean to supermarket shoppers?
Look for at least 15 cents increases in the cost per dozen eggs at the wholesale level, by the time they get to the retail consumer. We still do not know how bad the impact will be on turkey prices but we do know that, like eggs, the turkey population has also been pummeled. About 1.5 percent of the turkey population, which numbers 238 million birds, has been culled due to this flu. How much, if any, this devastation will impact your Thanksgiving dinner this year depends on how wide and deep this H5 strain of avian influenza will spread.
To date, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed 122 cases of the H5 strain that can kill a bird within 48 hours. Nearly 24 million chickens and turkeys from over 14 states have been affected since December. That's a lot more than the previous avian flu outbreak in the 1980s when 17 million birds died or were culled.
Scientists believe migratory waterfowl are spreading the disease as they trek northward in their seasonal migrations. So far no human cases of the strain have been discovered and the USDA does not believe that the flu has entered the food supply, or at least not yet. Unfortunately, the flu is still spreading. Iowa and Minnesota reported more cases this week, including two huge egg operations that combined produce an estimated 4 million hens.
The spreading disease is beginning to have an impact on industry. The first 233 layoffs occurred at Hormel Food's Jennie-O Turkey subsidiary, while some countries (China and Mexico) have already imposed bans on poultry imports. Those were "dark meat" markets where leg quarters are the predominant exports. With exports markets blocked, processors have been flooded with an excess of these poultry products and nowhere to sell them.
Broiler chickens, the largest slice of the $48 billion annual poultry market, have gone largely unscathed. These are chickens raised for meat. Given that this product is dedicated to human consumption, today's industrial bio-security systems are state-of-the-art. Farmers and corporations have learned their lessons and spent millions in construction in response to previous outbreaks of the flu and other diseases. Yet some scientists worry that the disease may be able to penetrate these defenses, if, say, a farm worker accidentally tracks in the disease on the bottom of his shoe or boot.
The USDA has been working on a vaccine that could protect our national poultry flocks from these bird flu strains while the Center for Disease control is working on a possible human vaccine at the same time, so far without success. In the meantime, this week the government approved an additional $330 million in emergency funding to help contain what has turned out to be the worst outbreak of avian flu in our history.
Bill Schmick is registered as an investment adviser representative with Berkshire Money Management. Bill's forecasts and opinions are purely his own. None of the information presented here should be construed as an endorsement of BMM or a solicitation to become a client of BMM. Direct inquires to Bill at 1-888-232-6072 (toll free) or email him at firstname.lastname@example.com.
The Independent Investor: Does Another Trade Pact Make Sense?
As Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to the United States winds down, politicians in both houses of Congress need to decide whether the proposed Trans-Pacific, 12-nation trade pact makes economic sense. It does and we should jump on it.
Through the years I have been in favor of more trade, rather than less. At the same time, I recognize that trade agreements, by their nature, means that in every country some sectors win and some lose. If you can produce something better than I and at a lower price, why shouldn't I take advantage of that?
Yet, there is always vocal opposition from those who perceive their position will be threatened. Those who stand to gain usually keep a low profile (while behind the scenes lobbying furiously for passage). This pact is shaping up to be no different.
Most economists and trade experts believe that Japan stands to gain the most from this Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). For them (and us), there are two controversial sticking points. We want Japan to dismantle its long history of protecting domestic auto dealers from U.S. imports. In exchange, Japan would like America to remove our barriers to car and auto parts imports from their country.
Japanese negotiators argue that American auto manufacturers have simply failed to design cars that appeal to Japanese consumers. Smaller, eco-friendly vehicles sell well in Japan. American autos, they claim, pollute more and are too large for Japan's narrow streets and highways. American manufacturers' claim those are simply excuses with no real merit.
That may be true, however, European automakers do not appear to have the same issues. Fourteen European manufacturers, led by Germany's Volkswagen, scored a record number of new car registrations over the last two years. The Japan Automobile Import Association found that 66 percent of these foreign imports qualified for a Japanese tax reduction for eco-friendly cars, while not one American auto import qualified for the same tax break. In addition, the Europeans are expanding the number of sale outlets they maintain in Japan, while U.S. importers have reduced their number.
That may be so, but if we look at the overall numbers, European autos account for less than 5 percent of total car sales in Japan, while we languish at a low 0.03 percent market share. In comparison, Toyota alone commands a 14.6 percent market share in the U.S. Honda holds an 8.2 percent share, while Nissan accounts for 9.4 percent. Clearly, this trade relationship is wildly lop-sided and has been for decades.
Agriculture is another area where Japan needs to let down the barriers for its own good. The Japanese only generate about 44 percent of their daily caloric intake from domestic farming production. This is largely due to an antiquated system that prevents corporate agricultural development. The Japanese farming lobby is hell-bent on preserving the individual farmer, no matter what the cost to the consumer or the country.
Prime Minister Abe understands this (as has many of his predecessors). The difference is that he is doing something about it. He has been chipping away at these barriers in order to spur economic growth. A TPP deal would allow more American beef and pork imports into the country. That works for him. Facing competition from abroad, domestic farmers would hopefully respond to the challenge by embracing economies of scale and opening up this closed community to corporate expertise.
The TPP could be a good deal for all involved. Protectionism is not the answer, in my opinion. That just allows inept and uneconomical practices to continue unimpeded. Predictably, some Democrats oppose the pact, fearing it will cost the country job losses in the auto sector. Republicans on the other hand, especially from rural farming states, are pushing the deal for obvious reasons. I find that trade deals like this are good for the consumer, whatever the country, even if, in the short-term, some workers could get hurt.
Bill Schmick is registered as an investment adviser representative with Berkshire Money Management. Bill's forecasts and opinions are purely his own. None of the information presented here should be construed as an endorsement of BMM or a solicitation to become a client of BMM. Direct inquires to Bill at 1-888-232-6072 (toll free) or email him at firstname.lastname@example.com.
The Independent Investor: Should You Manage That 401(k)?
When the Federal government, together with Corporate America, offered the American worker 401(k) and 403(b) tax-deferred savings plans, as an alternative to pension plans, they forgot one thing. The vast majority of employees have no idea how to manage these plans.
Back in my Dad's day, managing American's retirement savings was the job of professional pension plan managers. The money was invested conservatively, with a long-term view, regardless of market conditions. Clearly, it was the tortoise approach to investing, but by the time he retired his nest egg had grown considerably.
Today, less than 3 percent of all workers are enrolled in traditional pensions. The demise of pensions has many causes. At one time, workers spent a life-time working at only one or two companies. Today employees hop-scotch from job to job, since there is little loyalty left on either side of the desk or production line. Pensions under those circumstances make little sense. The practice of under-funding pension liabilities by corporations certainly did not help. The Pension Protection Act in 2006 ended that gimmick and with it signed the death warrant for most pension plans in America.
Instead, employees today are allowed to contribute a certain amount of their pay, tax-deferred, to these government/company-sponsored savings plans. Some companies will match your contribution up to a certain percentage level and most offer workers a menu of investment choices. From there, you are on your own.
Let's say you have been conscientious in contributing to your company's tax-deferred savings plan for 25 years and you are getting ready to retire. You call me and arrange a meeting to discuss your options. More often than not, the first thing I discover is that all of your money is invested in one or two bond funds or even worse, a money market fund.
"How long have you been invested in these funds," I ask.
"Since the beginning," the prospective client says, sheepishly.
"I didn't know what to do and I had no idea what any of the funds did, so I just stuck it into whatever came first on the list."
Don't laugh. I have encountered this situation in a variety of forms time and time again. It is not your fault. I have invested six years of education and 34 years of financial experience to get where I am. I suspect that you are every bit as good at your job as I am at mine. And you have probably spent a similar amount of time and effort remaining good at what you do. So why are you expected to also be good at investing your money - and in your spare time?
Let's face it, most workers do not have the time, education or inclination to acquire the knowledge necessary to make good investment choices over many years. What can you do?
You can read columns like this and hope enough sinks in to make the right choices. You can ask people like me, professional money managers, to take a look at your investment and suggest alternatives. I do this for many, many people at no charge. Another alternative to consider that could drastically increase your investment results would be to switch some or all of your money to a self-directed 401(k) or 403(b) plan.
There are two types of these plans. If you are self-employed, you can open a solo or one-participant 401(k) plan. This can be managed by a professional for a fee while you are still contributing to the plan. Normally, the expenses involved in managing the plan are cheaper than the costs and fees involved in a company 401(k), plus you will be receiving professional management advice.
The second type is a little-known investment option that some companies offer in their retirement plans called the self-directed brokerage account. These "Selfies" are part of your investment menu. They allow employees to take advantage of many more investment choices than are normally offered in a 401(k) menu. For individuals who have investment experience, the brokerage option offers a great opportunity to fine-tune an asset allocation strategy. But if you don't have that knowledge, you can hire an investment advisor to do it for you.
Better yet, you have the flexibility to farm out some of the money to a manager for a fee and keep some with your traditional 401(k) plan, if you so desire. This way you can get the professional financial advice you need now, while you are still contributing, rather than having to wait until you retire. As for fees, most company-sponsored, tax-deferred plans charge a yearly fee without providing advice. If you are going to pay a fee, you might as well pay it to someone who is going to manage it as well.
Not all companies offer this option. You should check with your human resources department and if they don't offer the option, suggest that maybe they should. Make sure you take the time to select the proper investment manager, one that has a "fiduciary responsibility" to his/her clients, unlike a broker, who simply is required to put you into a "suitable" investment. Make sure you understand the difference. If you don't, contact me and I'll explain it.
Bill Schmick is registered as an investment adviser representative with Berkshire Money Management. Bill's forecasts and opinions are purely his own. None of the information presented here should be construed as an endorsement of BMM or a solicitation to become a client of BMM. Direct inquires to Bill at 1-888-232-6072 (toll free) or email him at firstname.lastname@example.com.
The Independent Investor: Brazil � Not For the Faint of Heart
Beset by scandals that could reach as high as the presidential office, suffering from an epic drought, low oil prices, high inflation, a declining currency and a negative economic growth rate, the world's seventh largest economy could be an interesting long-term investment but not for the faint of heart.
No question about it, Brazil is a basket case right now. Dilma Rousseff, the two-term Brazilian president and former head of the state-owned energy behemoth, Petrobras, is embroiled in scandal. So far she has managed to elude prosecutors, who are pursuing 28 different investigations involving 54 politicians. Present and former Petrobras executives, including heads of both Chambers of Congress, former ministers, an ex-president, as well as the top members of President Rousseff's ruling Worker's Party are all involved.
The multibillion dollar kickback scandal involved funneling money through Petrobras and into the pockets of politicians and the election coffers of the Worker's Party from 2003-2010, (when Rousseff was president of the company). She maintains no knowledge of the scheme, however, three out of four Brazilians think she is lying and 44% of the population disapproves of her administration. Business and consumer confidence are touching historic lows while the Brazilian currency, called the Real, has depreciated 40 percent against the dollar.
Brazil is also suffering from a wide-spread and lingering drought that is hurting their vast agricultural export sector (3.5 percent of GDP and employs 15 percent of the labor force). It gets worse. The country's main source of energy is derived from hydroelectric plants, which depends solely upon water to drive their industrial sector (23 percent of GDP). As a commodity-rich country, the decline of that sector over the last few years has crippled growth. Yet, government spending continued to climb while much-needed and long-postponed structural reform of the country's rigid labor laws continued to be ignored.
As a result, economists forecast that debt as a percentage of GDP will end the year at 65.2%, while the economy will see a 1.5 percent decline in GDP growth. Inflation could reach as high as 7.5 percent. In the face of all this terrible news, why am I recommending buying?
Brazil's stock market has always had a boom or bust element to it. My first visit to Brazil was during the "Lost Decade" of the '80s when the condition of most Latin American countries resembled those of present-day Greece. Needless to say, Brazil's stock market was a total bust. The Bovespa, (Brazil's major index) reached a low in December of 1989.
By the early 1990s, however, thanks to a massive debt-for-equity swap by its bank creditors, the country's investment prospects greatly improved. During the 1990s, the market experienced sizable gains for investors, as well as major losses. Another market low was registered in 2002. At that time (unlike today) investors feared the country would default on their debt, which was far worse. Foreign reserves were also much lower, inflation was higher and the pressure on the Real was greater.
Worst of all, Lula de Silva, a radically liberal candidate of the Worker's Party, was elected president. That horrified the country's financial markets, who believed he would lead the country into a socialistic ruin. "Lula" did the opposite. He took severe measures, with the aid of the central bank, to control inflation, while imposing market-friendly policies and structural reforms. As a result, the Bovespa registered a 250 percent gain from 2003-2004. In the next eight years the stock market was up 1,705 percent versus a 57 percent increase in the S&P 500 Index. At that point the financial crisis drove the market down and it has never really recovered.
Today, I sense that investors' fear may be approaching the level that prevailed back in 2002. And yet, the economic conditions in Brazil are far better today. Some say the commodity cycle has bottomed and so have oil prices. If so, that would be a big shot in the arm for Brazil.
I do know that the U.S. is the country's second largest trading partner and the strong dollar benefits Brazil's exports. The political scandals may topple the president, in which case there is a distinct possibility that a new administration would implement "Lula"-like reforms to jump-start the economy and restore both business and consumer confidence. As for the drought, who knows when the weather will change?
Will all of this happen overnight? Not likely, but for those long-term investors that have the risk-tolerance and patience to wait, Brazil seems like an interesting place to nibble.
Bill Schmick is registered as an investment adviser representative with Berkshire Money Management. Bill's forecasts and opinions are purely his own. None of the information presented here should be construed as an endorsement of BMM or a solicitation to become a client of BMM. Direct inquires to Bill at 1-888-232-6072 (toll free) or email him at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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text: Review Content Great Product This product helps drivers pay closer attention to bike riders Safety First- Beats Riding in a Hearse I purchased this as a gift for my son who is an avid bike rider and doesnt hesitate to do foolish things. He frequently rides at night in the city where traffic is heavy. Since I worry about his safety and car drivers who may not be alert, I was elated when I saw this product. It was an answer to my greatest concern for his safety. Laser lane marker This item can make bicycling at night much safer. Even in daylight a virtual lane describing the safe space around the bike is a big plus. Innovative Safety Could be the difference between a car driver seeing you and colliding with you clever and useful in the city Love what it does (red lines) but with a rack in the rear, the light can be obscured. There is only one method of attachment, and the screws for changing the batteries are teeny tiny. I wouldnt want to have to replace the batteries in the dark. Wonderful addition for nighttime safety! Lots of night bicycling. Really lets cars drivers know you are there. We have had a few cycling deaths from cars over the past few years (more cyclists) and this gives a great sense of being able to be seen at night! Laser Bicycle Ligth I have used this light during early morning rides and it is bright and the lane markers show up well. I have used it for 8-12 hours and the light is still bright on the first set of batteries. It suits my purposes very well. Great for the Commute! This really helps in the spring and fall when the sun goes down early. Wish it was a little brighter for the daytime. Safe and Effective Bicylce Reflector Gives You Peace of Mind I really enjoy this product and bought one for a friend too! Excelen, i love this Excelente, i love this, is much what i expect


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Mercury rising.
Mercury rising.
Air Tattoo 2010
Lots of interesting bumps and bits hanging off this aircraft.
Lucky to have this at a civil airport! This airborne command & control aircraft arrived from Christchurch, New Zealand as 'RAZZ087'. Assigned to Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron Three (VQ-3) of S... (more)
Departing RAF Mildenhall very low, in typically rubbish light!


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Whether you celebrate winter holidays or not, the underlying theme of the season is love, peace and joy. You can easily create handmade ornaments based on these words using a small branch and basic craft supplies. The branches can be hung directly on a wall or set on a shelf (which allows the words to hang over the edge). If you have a Christmas tree you can even place the branch directly in the tree at an angle that lets you view the words.
I created 2 branches, one with the word PEACE and one with the word JOY. PEACE was created in a more Victorian style to match the decorations we have in a corner hutch. JOY was created in more vibrant colors to match the holiday decor in the kitchen.
Materials for Handmade Peace Ornaments
- A small tree branch
- Silver and red paper
- Glue
- Fine silver glitter
- A paper hole punch
- Twine or string
- Wax paper
Directions to Make Handmade Peace Ornaments
- Trim the branch down to the size you need. You can make these branches as small or large as you want.
- Allow the branch to dry.
- Draw or trace the letters P,E,A,C,E onto your red and silver paper.
- Cut the letter shapes out.
- Use the paper hole punch to remove the hole in the letters P and A.
- Trim the letters with glue.
- Sprinkle glitter over the letters where the glue is and then tap any excess glitter from the letters into the trash.
- Allow the letters to dry on wax paper.
- Tie 5 small pieces of twine or string on to the branch (one piece for each letter).
- Next, lie the branch flat on the wax paper.
- Glue your letters onto the strings one at a time. The letters are placed on top of the string. Make sure you put your letters in the correct spelling order.
- Allow the letters to dry throughly.
- Hang your branch.
Materials for Handmade Joy Ornaments
- A small tree branch
- 3 wooden flat circles (sold at craft supply stores)
- 3 eye hook screws
- 3 different colored paints
- Small paintbrush and water
- Ribbon or twine
- Pencil
- A tack (optional)
Directions for Handmade Joy Ornaments
- Trim the branch down to the size you need. You can make these branches as small or large as you want.
- Allow the branch to dry.
- Draw the letters J, O, Y in pencil onto the wooden circles.
- Paint each letter a different color.
- When the letters are dry, attach an eye hook screw into each circle top. Sometimes it helps to poke a hole in the wood with a tack first.
- Tie a ribbon through the eye hook and then slide the letters onto the tree branch.
I wish all of you a season filled with love, joy and peace!