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From The SF Bay Guardian
January 10, 2007
By Robert Avila
The world has rushed headlong and with questionable taste into 2007. Whatever else that implies, it wouldn't be funny if not for SF Sketchfest. The annual comedy showcase, which sails in buoyantly every January, grows fresher by the year, despite being nearly as old as this increasingly passé century.
Admittedly, the Bay Area has several admirable places to go for comedy — evergreen locales like Cobb's, newer nooks like the Dark Room, and a couple yearly improv festivals, for example.
But since its inception in 2002, SF Sketchfest has not only made room for more, it's featured unique programming that only gets savvier.
"Each year we like to add new elements," cofounder David Owen says, "new acts, new venues, new styles of comedy, new workshops and interactive events." Audiences, meanwhile, have responded with enthusiasm. Houses are packed, and the lineup is almost always impressive. To run down the roster of SF Sketchfest 2007 is to press nose to glass and ogle the comedy candy on display: Upright Citizens Brigade's Matt Besser, Ian Roberts, and Matt Walsh; MadTV 's Andrew Daly; Mr. Show 's David Cross and Bob Odenkirk (albeit in separate acts); Naked Babies (with Rob Corddry of Daily Show fame); a tribute to Paul Reubens (that's Paul "Pee-wee Herman" Reubens, of course); and much more.
Although Owen says the plan was always to grow SF Sketchfest into something bigger and better, he and colleagues Janet Varney and Cole Stratton originally conceived of the project in narrower, rather pragmatic terms — namely, as a means of getting their own act, the comedy troupe Totally False People, an extended run on a downtown stage.
"We frankly couldn't afford to rent a theater on our own," he says. "So we teamed up with five other Bay Area groups — and we called it SF Sketchfest." Six years later, Owen looks back on this modest scheme with some justifiable awe. "When we were first putting it together, I don't think we ever dreamed it would be where it is today."
There was plenty of magic even in that more low-key first year. But SF Sketchfest almost immediately reached out to national acts, which have seemed only too willing to oblige. The program has since blossomed into a sweet-smelling potpourri of wit from around the country while staying true to its original impetus by giving ample room to local groups such as Kasper Hauser, Killing My Lobster, and deeply strange soloist extraordinaire Will Franken.
If casting their net nationally while maintaining the fest's original commitment to local acts takes considerable work ("Every year it's a bit of a jigsaw puzzle," Stratton says, "only we don't have a picture to work off of"), Sketchfest's directors have, to their credit, repeatedly struck a fine balance, producing a formidable mix of major headliners and more up-and-coming comedians. "It gives audiences a chance to see groups they love with potentially the next big thing, and it gives the performers enthusiastic, packed houses," Stratton says, explaining the strategy. "We probably put together 50 calendars before we can put a lock on things, but it always comes together beautifully."
"We're so particular about what we program every year," Varney says.
"There isn't a show in the calendar that we're not incredibly excited about." Still, Varney cites among the festival's particular strengths this year its "more interactive side," including workshops in comedy screenwriting (with The Baxter 's writer-director-star Michael Showalter), sketch writing (with San Francisco's Kasper Hauser), and an improv master class (with Upright Citizens Brigade's Matt Walsh). "These are seriously respected people offering their expertise," she says. Moreover, she promises with understandable confidence, "The workshops are going to be tremendously fun."
Then there's TV-style audience participation. "Some of the performers from the 'Comedy Death-Ray' show [David Cross, Maria Bamford, and Paul F. Tompkins] will be doing their version of the old '70s game show Match Game. Jimmy Pardo hosts the show, and it's a really fun, relaxed environment where the audience gets to both participate and to see the comedians think on their feet," Varney says.
"And of course," she adds, "we're really excited to honor Paul Reubens at this year's SF Sketchfest Tribute." The event — which in years past has saluted the likes of Amy Sedaris (2004), Dana Carvey (2005), and Cross and Odenkirk (2006) — includes an audience Q&A with Reubens after he has a sit-down conversation with journalist Ben Fong-Torres.
Closing night builds to a crescendo of sorts with a program of music and comedy, featuring Kids in the Hall veteran Bruce McCulloch (2005's hilarious opener, back for more with accompanist Craig Northey) and two returning Los Angeles acts, the fine duo Hard 'N Phirm and comedy rapper Dragon Boy Suede.
"Sketch is very strong right now," Stratton notes. "I think sites like YouTube are ushering in a new wave of sketch groups. High-quality cameras and editing equipment are readily available, so a lot of funny things are being produced and immediately snatched up online." It's had a feedback effect on the comedy circuit. "A lot of groups mix their filmed stuff with live performance and tour festivals with it, a trend we've noticed increasing in the last few years. With festivals popping up in Chicago, Portland, Seattle, New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, and Vancouver, sketch is in high demand."


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Lately, Ive been thinking that now that Im in the Primal groove, its time to budget which doesnt necessarily mean cutting back as much as it means being smart about how I spend my food dollar. My ultimate goal will be to see if one person can eat Primal-ly on $200/month without going over 75 gms of carbs per day. I arbitrarily chose $200/month because thats how much in foodstamps the Fedl govt gives a household of one, if they qualify by income.
First step: learning the cost of protein based on whats available to me without having to drive 50 miles to the nearest farm (which does have its impact on the planet). Your costs will be different based on where you live, whether or not you have the space for a large freezer, access to cow sharing, etc., so this is only a generalization. Ive used an arbitrary need of 85 grams of protein per day.
Notes: Anything that isnt labeled CAFO is either grass-fed, organic, pastured, or wild. The sardines are wild, caught off the CA shore, and in bpa-free cans, so you can surely find them less expensive. The salmon, on the other hand, may be artificially low because I had to buy 20 pounds to get the price I got. For CAFO products, Ive factored in for not eating the visible fat/skin.
I used protein because based on my experience, its the most expensive macro. Carbs and fats are relatively inexpensive.
[U]So, heres what Ive found to be the cost of 85 grams of protein:[/U]
CAFO lean pork/loin: $1.42
Whey Protein Powder: $2.41
CAFO chicken breast, skin removed: $2.66
Eggs: $3.39
Beef Shanks: $3.69
Chicken livers: $5.05
95/5 Ground Beef: $5.75
Salmon: $7.95
Sardines: $9.01
Squid: $10.72
Shrimp: $11.00
Oysters: $23.90
Some of these were an eye-opener (I love my oysters). Also, it floored me that CAFO pork and chicken were lower than eggs (nothing should be cheaper than eggs! Were all so getting screwed by subsidies.). But doing the calculations did show me that in a pinch, I could eat pretty inexpensively however, I wouldnt relish the idea of eating CAFO all the time.
Hopefully, this might give those of us living on a tight budget a jumping off place on bang-for-the-protein-buck.
Next step: planning thirty days of meals that are healthy and seeing if I can actually do that on what the govt thinks I can.

subset: commoncrawl


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Dietrich, Alexander and Wimböck, Thomas and Albu-Schäffer, Alin and Hirzinger, Gerd (2001) Singularity Avoidance for Nonholonomic, Omnidirectional Wheeled Mobile Platforms with Variable Footprint. In: Proc. of the 2011 IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation. International Conference on Robotics and Automation, Shanghai.
- Requires a PDF viewer such as GSview, Xpdf or Adobe Acrobat Reader
One characteristic attribute of mobile platforms equipped with a set of independent steering wheels is their omnidirectionality and the ability to realize complex translational and rotational trajectories. An accurate coordination of steering angle and spinning rate of each wheel is necessary for a consistent motion. Since the orientations of the wheels must align to the Instantaneous Center of Rotation (ICR), the current location and velocity of this specific point is essential for describing the state of the platform. However, singular configurations of the controlled system exist depending on the ICR, leading to unfeasible control inputs, i.e., infinite steering rates. Within this work we address and analyze this problem in general. Furthermore, we propose a solution for mobile platforms with variable footprint. An existing controller based on dynamic feedback linearization is augmented by a new potential field-based algorithm for singularity avoidance which uses the tunable leg lengths as an additional control input to minimize deviations from the nominal motion trajectory. Simulations and experimental results on the mobile platform of DLR's humanoid manipulator Justin support our approach.
|Document Type:
|Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
|Singularity Avoidance for Nonholonomic, Omnidirectional Wheeled Mobile Platforms with Variable Footprint
|May 2001
|Journal or Publication Title:
|Proc. of the 2011 IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation
|nonholonomic, omnidirectional, mobile platform
|Event Title:
|International Conference on Robotics and Automation
|Event Location:
|Event Type:
|international Conference
|HGF - Research field:
|Aeronautics, Space and Transport (old)
|HGF - Program:
|Space (old)
|HGF - Program Themes:
|W SY - Technik für Raumfahrtsysteme
|DLR - Research area:
|DLR - Program:
|W SY - Technik für Raumfahrtsysteme
|DLR - Research theme (Project):
|W - Leistungszentrum Robotik - Mechatronik und Telerobotik (old)
|Institutes and Institutions:
|Institute of Robotics and Mechatronics > Robotic Systems
|Deposited By:
|Alexander Dietrich
|Deposited On:
|14 Jun 2011 09:30
|Last Modified:
|12 Dec 2013 21:18
Repository Staff Only: item control page


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DULUTH, Minn. - Bernice I. Korach, surrounded by family, passed away peacefully on Oct. 6, 2012, at the Benedictine Health Center, in Duluth, Minn.
She was born Aug. 12, 1931, in Duluth, to Alice and John Engman. Raised on the family farm in Twig, Minn., she formed her fondness of simple life, good food, and a love of animals, a trait carried on throughout her life, with her beloved pets.
In high school, Bernice won a trip to compete in bread making at the Minnesota State Fair because she had won first place in bread making at the St. Louis County Fair, in Proctor, Minn.
Hard work and home-canned goodness for her family, caring well for animals and respecting nature were important aspects of her being. Bernice was extremely proud of her Swedish heritage. It was fun to hear her play the accordion that she had learned to play as a young girl.
After graduating from Proctor High school in 1949, Bernice went on to obtain her nursing license from Miller Dwan Hospital.
She was united in marriage to Peter Korach on June 25, 1952, at the Covenant Church in Twig, then moving to Peters' home town of Crosby, Minn., where they started raising their family and she started her career.
Bernice was a school nurse at the Riverton School and worked at the Cuyuna Range Clinic until the family transferred, with Peters occupation, to Iron River in 1969.
She continued to work as a nurse at Central School in Iron River, finishing her career at the Ice Lake Clinic. Bernice was a familiar face to many as the result of being the nurse there until her retirement in 1997.
There is no denying, Bernice was a natural caregiver/family peacekeeper in the truest sense of the words, compassion and respect for every living creature.
Bernice was preceded in death by her father, John D. Engman; brother, John D. (Jack) Engman; and her in-laws, Violet and Marion Korach.
She is survived by her husband, Peter; her mother, Alice I. Engman; a sister, Lois "Tootie" LeBlanc; children, Reen (Jill), Dean (Al), Becky (Jean), Judy (Clarence) Tryba; grandchildren, Reen and Kim; and a great-granddaughter, Kalli.
A celebration of Bernice's life will begin with a gathering of family and friends from 10 a.m. until the 11 a.m. memorial service Saturday, Nov. 10, at Jacobs Funeral Home in Iron River.
Graveside services will be held at the cemetery in Crosby, Minn. at a date yet to be determined. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Northwoods Animal Shelter in Iron River.
Sincerest gratitude from her family to all those involved in her care at Keystone Bluffs, St. Luke's Hospital and Benedictine Health center.


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BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 CALSCALE:GREGORIAN PRODID:iCalendar-Ruby VERSION:2.0 BEGIN:VEVENT DESCRIPTION:
Franç\;ois Ghebaly is pleased to present Robert Russell&rsquo\ ;s second exhibition with the gallery\, \;Men Who are Named Robert Russell.\n
For the past few years\, the artist has obsessively begun the project of painting all images of other Robert Ru ssells that one can find on a Google search. The only criterion of inclusio n in this ongoing project is that the subject bears the artist&rsquo\;s ful l name\, Robert Russell\, dismissing any additional information.\n
Present ed in an unfinished grid-like installation\, reminiscent of Gerhard Richter &rsquo\;s infamous &ldquo\;48 Portraits&rdquo\;\, this body of work functio ns as a single piece\, which the artist will continue to contribute to\, th roughout his life\, as long as he can paint\, or at the very least chooses to. Reproductions of each painting will be be uploaded to the Internet\, th rough the gallery website and other means\, and will ultimately diminish th e source images. With this gesture\, in the end\, Robert Russell\, the arti st\, may achieve full ownership of his own name through the means of painti ng.\n
Part of this body of work was first introduced in New York at OSMOS Address curated by Cay Sophie Rabinowitz.\n
Robert Russell is an artist ba sed in Los Angeles\, who received his BFA from RISD\, and his MFA from Cal Arts.DTEND:20130810 DTSTAMP:20161024T153502 DTSTART:20130713 GEO:34.0190877;-118.2317065 LOCATION:François Ghebaly Gallery\,2245 E Washington Blvd. \nLos Angeles\, CA 90021 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Paintings of Men Named Robert Russell\, Robert Russell UID:284589 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTEND:20130713T210000 DTSTAMP:20161024T153502 DTSTART:20130713T180000 GEO:34.0190877;-118.2317065 LOCATION:François Ghebaly Gallery\,2245 E Washington Blvd. \nLos Angeles\, CA 90021 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Paintings of Men Named Robert Russell\, Robert Russell UID:284590 END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR


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From the beginning it was known that low voltage would not stop Asian carp under 6 inches from crossing the electric barriers in the Chicago waterway. In the original tests it was also noted that both sliver and bighead carp could cross the barrier when frightened.
But not to worry, as luck would have it, the closest small Asian carp are 116 miles away from the barrier. Whew! Dodged a bullet there.
I see a lot of fancy titles, millions of dollars in studies with more to come. It's only government money and we've got lots of that. What I don't see is any impact on Asian carp numbers. Despite commercial fishing, the carp are still doubling. And we have created a group that now will fight to keep them; some commercial guys are making big money off of Asian carp, a very dangerous thing. The best thing to do is not let the carp get big enough, or in numbers high enough to have any value.
What can we do? All the experts say lack of predators allows invasive species to take over, so we add predators. All baby fish have predators, that's how nature works, how it balances the system.
We now have 185 invasive species in the Great Lakes that continue to increase in numbers, and we have native predators for them, but the predators lack enough numbers to control the invasives. This can be changed real easily, however any increase in native fish populations would threaten the alewives, so helping native fish is not allowed.
Oh, they can do studies, that doesn't threaten the alewives. There are hundreds of studies (already paid for by the way) even Michigan Department of Natural Resources studies that tell us what we need to do, many examples. But the best plan the MDNR has is to increase the alewives, an invasive species.
It seems the only science based or real fish biology is being applied to the alewives, and native fish are thrown under the bus! I don't care if the MDNR calls the alewives, prey or naturalized, or blue-tailed monkeys for that matter. Alewives are an invasive species, they will always be an invasive species, they will continue to eat zooplankton and native larval fish no matter what you call them.
Regardless of how many titles or Ph.D.s these people have, increasing an invasive species is not helping fight invasive species. The law says we have to protect our natural resources, not the fish from out of town!
We have native predators for Asian carp and other invasive species, use them or lose them.
Tom Matych
Twin Lake


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Step By Step Wire Jewelry Subscription
Step-by-Step Wire Jewelry is going to be published 5 times in 2007.Step by Step Wire Jewelry Magazine is from the editors of Jewelry Artist. Packed with detailed and illustrated how-to projects, this magazine is for wire jewelry makers of all levels. Inside each issue are articles by expert and well-known authors showing readers how to make attractive, inexpensive and creative wire jewelry using tools, wire, stones, findings, beads, gems, jigs, pearls and more.
More about Step By Step Wire Jewelry
More About Step By Step Wire Jewelry
More about Step By Step Wire Jewelry magazine: Get wired with a subscription to Step by Step Wire Jewelry magazine, your complete source for making all types of wire jewelry. Inside, you'll get your bling on as expert tips guide you to getting bejeweled! Learn how to make earrings that look like they came from the trendiest boutique or piece together a cuff bracelet for that perfect gift. Plus, link into exclusive ideas for chain projects that hang tall. That's just the beginning. Check out easy techniques for soldering or find ways to make your own designer clasps. The best thing about Step By Step Wire Jewelry is that it's for all levels, so you can get your hooks into jump rings, charm bracelets, beaded bangles or your own dynamic designs today!


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154 members
21 members
842 members
54 members
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Started Sep 16, 2009
Started this discussion. Last reply by TwiѼGirl21 Sep 30, 2009.
Started this discussion. Last reply by liz c Nov 13, 2009.
My partner threw me a surprise birthday party with a Twilight theme. I was amazed at the detail she remembered...from the exact replica of Bella's cake (with the same font cake topper!!), stand-up Edward, chess piece bookmarks, Eclipse birthday plates/napkins/cups/tablecloth, Sweetheart's Twilight candy heart, red apples in a vase, red licorice (because, if you recall, in Twilight there were several scenes where the cast was eating licorice), little cut-outs of quotes from the book…Continue
Posted on February 3, 2011 at 9:58pm — 16 Comments
Posted on January 18, 2010 at 4:46pm — 12 Comments
Posted on December 9, 2009 at 12:39pm — 18 Comments
Posted on November 3, 2009 at 11:30am — 1 Comment
Posted on October 29, 2009 at 1:42pm


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HUNTSVILLE, Alabama -- The Huntsville school board's first meeting of the New Year will be held next week instead of tonight, the first Thursday of the month.
The board's work session is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 8. The board typically meets on the first and third Thursdays of the month.
Board meetings are held at the district's central office, located at 200 White St.
For more information about the board and its meetings, visit huntsvillecityschools.net.


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The Effects of Caffeine on Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials in Healthy Subjects
The recruitment status of this study is unknown because the information has not been verified recently.
Verified September 2012 by Hospital do Servidor Publico Estadual.
Recruitment status was Active, not recruiting
Recruitment status was Active, not recruiting
Hospital do Servidor Publico Estadual
Information provided by (Responsible Party):
Ana Maria Almeida de Sousa, Hospital do Servidor Publico Estadual
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
First received: September 20, 2012
Last updated: September 29, 2012
Last verified: September 2012
- Full Text View
- Tabular View
- No Study Results Posted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
The principal aim of this study is to evaluate the presence of changes in cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPc) after acute intake of caffeine in healthy subjects.
Secondarily, it wants to standardize normal values exam VEMPc in otorhinolaryngology service of the hospital.
Healthy Subjects
Drug: Caffeine
Phase 4
|Study Type:
|Study Design:
|Endpoint Classification: Pharmacodynamics Study
Intervention Model: Single Group Assignment
Masking: Single Blind (Investigator)
Primary Purpose: Screening
|Official Title:
|The Effects of Caffeine on Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials in Healthy
Resource links provided by NLM:
MedlinePlus related topics: Caffeine Dizziness and VertigoU.S. FDA Resources
Further study details as provided by Hospital do Servidor Publico Estadual:
Primary Outcome Measures:
- Alteration of p13 and n23 latency and p13-n23 amplitude before and after caffeine intake. [ Time Frame: 60 minutes ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]
|Estimated Enrollment:
|Study Start Date:
|January 2012
|Estimated Study Completion Date:
|January 2013
|Estimated Primary Completion Date:
|October 2012 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)
|Assigned Interventions
Experimental: Caffeine
Caffeine 420mg, one time
|Drug: Caffeine
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|20 Years to 40 Years (Adult)
|Genders Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
Inclusion Criteria:
- healthy subjects
Exclusion Criteria:
- hearing impairment
- caffeine abuse 24 hours before the test
- medication remains
- hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus or sleep disorders.
Contacts and Locations
Choosing to participate in a study is an important personal decision. Talk with your doctor and family members or friends about deciding to join a study. To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the Contacts provided below. For general information, see Learn About Clinical Studies.
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01693809
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01693809
|Hospital do Servidor Publico Estadual
|São Paulo, Brazil
Sponsors and Collaborators
Hospital do Servidor Publico Estadual
|Study Chair:
|Fabio Akira Suzuki, PhD
|Hospital do Servidor Publico Estadual
|Principal Investigator:
|Ana Maria Almeida Sousa, MD
|Hospital do Servidor Publico Estadual
More Information
Keywords provided by Hospital do Servidor Publico Estadual:
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
ClinicalTrials.gov processed this record on October 27, 2016
|Responsible Party:
|Ana Maria Almeida de Sousa, MD, Hospital do Servidor Publico Estadual
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|NCT01693809 History of Changes
|Other Study ID Numbers:
|Study First Received:
|September 20, 2012
|Last Updated:
|September 29, 2012
|Health Authority:
|Brazil: Ethics Committee
Keywords provided by Hospital do Servidor Publico Estadual:
Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
Central Nervous System Stimulants
Physiological Effects of Drugs
Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors
Enzyme Inhibitors
Molecular Mechanisms of Pharmacological Action
Purinergic P1 Receptor Antagonists
Purinergic Antagonists
Purinergic Agents
Neurotransmitter Agents
ClinicalTrials.gov processed this record on October 27, 2016


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SAYREVILLE, N.J. -- If you were planning on taking the Garden State Parkway south to the Jersey shore this weekend, consider an alternate route.
As of 2:45 p.m., southbound delays spanned five miles from Exit 130 in Woodbridge Township to Exit 124 in Sayreville, due to Express E-Z Pass lane closures at the Raritan South Toll Plaza in Sayreville, according to the New Jersey Turnpike Authority website.
The lane closures, which are the result of repairs being made to the deck of a southbound bridge over an abandoned railroad crossing south of the toll plaza, are scheduled for 9 p.m. Friday until 5 a.m. Monday, according to a New Jersey Turnpike Authority advisory.


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President Barack Obama yesterday caved in to public criticism of US government programmes that covertly monitor the e-mails and phone calls of millions of American citizens and announced a four-step plan to increase transparency and accountability of national security surveillance operations.
In a rare end of term press conference before heading off for a week's holiday with his family in Martha's Vineyard, Mr Obama sought to restore public confidence in the activities of the National Security Agency, which have been revealed in a series of leaks by the fugitive whistleblower and former security services contractor Edward Snowden.
"I want to


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GOP healthcare alternative? It's pretty flawed, too
Ugh. So House GOPers have put out their alternative to ObamaCare. It's really more of a statement of principles with a few numbers. Yes, it is a good idea to level the playing field between those who get their insurance through their employers and those who buy it on their own. But this is the part that put me back on me heels:
Strengthens employer-provided health coverage by helping the 10 million uninsured Americans who are eligible, but not enrolled in, an employer-sponsored plan get health care coverage. The plan does this by encouraging employers to move to opt-out, rather than opt-in rules.
Employer-based covering should be scrapped, not strenghthened. (In fact, doing so really is key to reform.) The great Arnold Kling gives five good reasons why:
- The cost of health insurance is disguised from consumers, because firms do not report what they pay in premiums. Workers are under the illusion that their health coverage is inexpensive, and if they subsequently find themselves having to obtain their own health insurance, they are offended by the cost and instead choose to go uninsured.
- Workers who are concerned about the availability of health insurance may suffer from "job lock." They might wish to leave their job for self-employment, pursuit of formal education, an opportunity with a smaller firm, or early retirement, but the potential loss of health insurance is a deterrent.
- Workers may not enjoy the range of insurance choices that they would have if health insurance were not negotiated for them by employers. For example, if they could choose their own insurance, some workers might elect coverage with higher co-pays and deductibles but lower premiums, in order to have more cash income.
- Because employer-provided health insurance is subsidized through the tax system, the benefits accrue relatively more to high-income workers.
Workers who are fired or laid off can find themselves without health insurance at a point where they can least afford to be uninsured.
We welcome comments that advance the story through relevant opinion, anecdotes, links and data. If you see a comment that you believe is irrelevant or inappropriate, you can flag it to our editors by using the report abuse links. Views expressed in the comments do not represent those of Reuters. For more information on our comment policy, see http://blogs.reuters.com/fulldisclosure/2010/09/27/toward-a-more-thoughtful-conversation-on-stories/
A tax incentive to have some sort of medicial saving plan
could make the diffrence…Save more early for old age. 401k for medicial? I see it as a way to phase out social security and reduce our dependance on goverment and vica versa. Insurance could come down like car insurance. Parents would cover their kids at birth so no prexisting conditions, even better before conception. Still didn't see anything about tort reform..NO plan can work without that!


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NEW YORK — Brooke Astor's son Anthony Marshall and his co-defendant Francis Morrissey are "two reverse Robin Hoods who stole from charity in order to enrich themselves," a prosecutor said Monday as he finished his summation in the five-month-long trial over Astor's will.
"It has been said that a society is judged based upon how it treats its
elderly," Assistant District Attorney Joel Seidemann told the jury in
Manhattan state Supreme Court. "Through your verdict we ask you to hold
these two accountable for stealing from and defrauding a great
philanthropist, a great New Yorker and a great human being in the
sunset of her life."
Astor was 105 and suffering from Alzheimer's when she died in 2007.
Estate lawyer Morrissey, 66, and Marshall, 85, are accused of exploiting her declining mental condition to plunder millions of dollars from her estate.
Astor's last will, created Jan. 30, 2002, left millions of dollars to her favorite charities, but three later amendments gave Marshall a much larger share of her $185 million estate.
Marshall, charged with grand larceny, faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted. Morrissey is charged with forgery and faces up to seven years.
In closing arguments over three days, Seidemann hammered home the prosecution position that Astor was incompetent by the time she signed the amendments, giving millions more to Marshall.
He cited Minette Christie, a nurse attending Astor, whose notes from September 2003 and March 2004 mentioned "confusion" 68 times.
Defense lawyers contend that Astor was lucid when she signed the amendments.
Justice A. Kirke Bartley Jr. will instruct the jury as to the law on Tuesday, and then the jury will begin deliberating.


text:
White House Hotel Information and Photos
- Type And Size
- Independent Hotel
- 27 rooms
- Address
- 52 Church Road London Horley RH6 7EX
White House Hotel
White House Hotel is a family run London bed and breakfast that provides great value accommodation within easy reach of Gatwick Airport and only 35 mins from Victoria, Central London. The Airport is just minutes away, and you can catch a fast train from Horley Station into Central London, to visit famous landmarks such as Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace. An added advantage of this London airport hotel is that cheap parking (GBP 6.00 per day) is available for guests and it also runs cheap transport to Gatwick Airport (GBP 6.00 transfer) between 08:00 and 23:00.
There are plenty of facilities at White House Hotel, ensuring that you have a relaxing stay. All of the rooms come with the luxury of ensuite facilities, as well as a hospitality tray, hairdryer and a colour TV. You'll be able to use your telephone to tell friends and family what a great time you're having, and you will also find internet access available in the hotel. At the end of a day out you can enjoy a drink in the bar or food in the restaurant. Offering you a home away from home, with friendly service from the owners and great tips for your stay
- Attractions
White House Hotel is situated within two miles of Gatwick Airport. As well as having the convenience of being close to the airport for flights in and out, you can also use Horley Train Station for fast transport links into Central London. This means it's easy for you to visit famous attractions such as the London Eye and Oxford Street. Closer to the hotel you have the shops, bars and cafes of Horley town centre, or you could hop on a train for a day by the sea in Brighton.
White House Hotel Facilities
- Facilities
24 Hour Reception / Airport Transfers / Alarm Clock Radio / Bar / Central Heating / Coffee/Tea Maker / Colour Television / Conference Rooms / Cot / Family Friendly / Fax Machine / Fire Escape / Gardens / Ground Floor Access / Hairdryer / Hotel Safe / Interior Room Entrance / Iron & Board / Laundry / Microwave / Non-Smoking Rooms on Request / Parking / Pay-Phones / Phone / Shampoo / Shower / Smoke Detectors / Tea & Coffee / Television Lounge / Toilet / Tourist Information / Wake Up Service / Wash Basin / Wireless Internet Access / Wireless Internet Access in Rooms
- Food and Drink
White House Hotel has a restaurant serving Indian curries, English food and light snacks in the evenings.
- Internet
FREE Wifi in all public areas of the White House Hotel.
Wifi in the rooms costs £6.00 per day.
- Parking
Parking is available for only GBP 6.00 per day, or GBP 4.00 per day for stays of 7 nights or more (excluding July/August). White House Hotel is located outside of the London Congestion charge zone.
- Communal areas and activities
White House Hotel has a garden where guests can relax.
- Children
Guests under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult over 18 in the room.
FREE for one child under 3 years of age using existing beds.
FREE for one child under 2 years of age in a cot.
Such requests must be made in 'special requests' at the time of booking (there is a maximum of 1 cot per room).
- Latest News
TravelStay Exclusives:
If you are visiting or working at the Manor Royal Industrial Estate the White House Hotel is ideally located. Simply book with promotional code 'ManorHouse' for GBP 5.00 off your stay (min 3 nights, must be booked on TravelStay.com)
If you are visiting Aviation House in nearby Crawley, White House Hotel ideally located. Simply book with promotional code 'Aviation' for GBP 5.00 off your stay (min 3 nights, must be booked on TravelStay.com)
- Check in / Check out
Check in from: 11:00 GMT - 00:00 GMT
Check out by: 09:30 GMT - 10:00 GMT
Guests can also check in late, our reception is open 24 hours.
- Breakfast Info at White House Hotel
SPECIAL OFFER: A Continental or English breakfast is available. If you have booked the English breakfast option, you will enjoy a traditional breakfast including toast, butter and preserves, eggs, beans bacon and sausages with a choice of tea, coffee or juice.
TravelStay Prices and Discounts
|Our Prices
Book White House Hotel from £17.33 per person on only TravelStay.com
|Our Long Stay Discount
|TravelStay Exclusive: Stay 7 nights or more save 5%
|Our Student Discount
|TravelStay Exclusive: Students save 2.5%
|Sunday Saver
|10% off rates for stays on Friday and Saturday night (Travelstay Exclusive)
- By Train
The nearest train station to White House Hotel is Horley. Frequent trains run from here into Central London. For the Gatwick Express in Central London you can use the station at Gatwick Airport.
- By Car
From the M25 exit at Junction 7 and follow signs for Gatwick Airport M23. Come off the M23 at Junction 9 continuing to follow signs for Gatwick Airport. Head for the signs for the North Terminal at the roundabout take the fourth exit onto the A23, signed Redhill. At the next roundabout take the third exit, onto the A23 and heading into Horley. You'll soon come to Church Road on your right, where you will find White House Hotel.
- On Foot
White House Hotel is less than 13 minutes walk from Horley Train Station and 30 minutes from Gatwick Airport
White House Hotel ReviewsBased on 61 Hotel Reviews
Thank you for the nice stay at the White House Hotel. The staff was very friendly and helpful. We had the traditional English breakfast both mornings and it was very good. We also appreciated the very reasonable priced room and ride to the airport. Thank you again
I had a lovely time in the hotel. Everything was well organized. If I back to London and I need a hotel, I will book again :)
Room small but clean. Bedding good and bed comfy. Breakfast was fine. Shuttle service to Gatwick very quick. All in all great value for money. Would definitely book on TravelStay again
Stayed overnight before flight from Gatwick the next day. Comfortable, clean and adequate. Friendly helpful staff, great value for money. Would book again.
Convenient location. good rooms and facilities. Very good value for money.


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FRIDAY, Aug. 10 (HealthDay News) -- A device that applies electrical stimulation to the brain in response to a seizure considerably reduces seizure length in a rat model of epilepsy, according to a study published in the Aug. 10 issue of Science.
Using a rat model of generalized ("petit mal") epilepsy, Antal Berényi, from Rutgers University in Newark, N.J., and colleagues implanted a device in the rat's brains that applied feedback control via a closed-loop transcranial electrical stimulation in response to spike-and-wave episodes.
The researchers found that the device significantly reduced both the duration and the fraction of time spent in spike-and-wave episodes by about 60 percent. The device did not induce arousal during sleep or affect behavior when awake and could potentially be implanted in a cosmetically acceptable way.
"These findings show that brain pattern-triggered feedback transcranial electrical stimulation of cortical neurons can interfere with thalamocortical reverberation during spike-and-wave episodes and effectively reduce their duration," Berényi and colleagues conclude.
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What part of the day
do you find that you get the most cleaning done? Morning, afternoon, or evening?
Add your quick reply below:
You must be a member to reply to this post.
Replies (1-10):
by Ticia on Jan. 21, 2014 at 11:35 PM
Usually in the morning after my dd goes to school.
by Queen24Princes on Jan. 21, 2014 at 11:39 PM
Usually at night when all the kids are in bed.
by Gold Member on Jan. 22, 2014 at 12:30 AM
morning while the kids are at school. They do help some in the afternoon though.
I usually am up by 4 am and that is when I do most of my cleaning.
I don't do much cleaning :) but if I do afternoons when I have the most energy. But they just tear it up.
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A recent move on New Jersey's education front to shore up the math and science skills of the state's students is a smart investment in the future.
New Jersey will partner with The Woodrow Wilson Teaching Fellowship Foundation to recruit top collegiate science and math students to become high school teachers in the state's neediest districts.
Teachers tapped by the Princeton-based foundation will fill vacancies in Trenton, Ewing, Lawrence, New Brunswick and eight other school districts, as The Times reported last week. In exchange for a $30,000 stipend, the recruits will be required to teach for three years in New Jersey's "high need urban or rural schools."
With its long and successful history of training educators, The College of New Jersey will be one of five schools to develop a program in line with fellowship guidelines to transform the preparation of teacher candidates.
When the program launches in two years, it will be a tangible way to help stem the brain drain taking graduates beyond New Jersey to start careers. Matching graduates with immediate opportunities in New Jersey's schools is the beginning of keeping those young, talented professionals here.
Students in poor-performing schools obviously will benefit from educators trained specifically in the subjects most students will need to go on to college or have hope of landing a well-paying job.
Only about 8 percent of children in low-income communities go on to complete college, according to the Teach for America program, a venture similar to the New Jersey fellowship.
And American students lag far behind their international peers in science, technology, engineering and math, the "STEM" fields. Currently, the United States ranks 25th in math and 17th in science among developed nations. Disparities are most profound in urban districts that lack equipment, textbooks and teachers.
"This state has thousands of open jobs in the STEM fields, for which there are not people prepared to fill them. We hope this will address some of that," says Arthur Levine, fellowship president.
It's essential that New Jersey continue focusing on that preparation at the high schools and community colleges. The evolving global economy and information technology make it easier and easier for employers to take their pick of workers from around the world who have the skills and academic standing those companies require.
A crop of committed, enthusiastic teachers able to inspire a passion for math and science, even a working knowledge, will help keep those jobs in New Jersey. It's a clear win for the state.


text:
This deal has ended.
Update: This deal is over. Now out of stock. Walmart has dropped the price of the Mainstays 5-Piece Wood Dining Set from $219 to $199, saving you $20. Even better, shipping is free! This set includes a dining table and 4 chairs in solid rubberwood with an acorn finish. Sales tax is charged in most states. You can pick this item up in-store for no charge also, which may be beneficial if you would like to see it before taking it home.No longer available


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Hunterdon County is spending another $109,302 for more upgrades of its communications equipment used by police, fire, rescue and other agencies.
At their meeting Tuesday, Jan. 17, the Freeholders agreed to award a contract for 18 very high frequency (VHF) base stations/repeaters to Holzberg Communications of Totowa. It was the lowest of three bidders for the equipment.
According to Harry J. Heller, supervising communications operator, the Federal Communications Commission has mandated "narrow-banding," that is, switching to radio technology that uses less bandwidth.
This is due to the UHF and VHF frequency bands being congested with limited spectrum available for system expansion or implementation of new systems. Using less bandwidth frees up radio channels for more users.
Heller said the mandate means that a lot of the county's older equipment needs to be replaced.
The county uses antennas on towers at its Communications Center in Cherryville and elsewhere around the region to reach the two-way radios of police, fire and rescue units as well as cars and trucks in the Parks, Roads and other departments.
Heller said that a base station is needed for each frequency, at each tower, and the county is also obtaining a couple of spare units.
In December the Freeholders agreed to buy around $135,000 worth of equipment, some of it paid for with grants, for the Communications Center.
The most expensive piece of new equipment approved then is a logging recorder system, to be purchased from Kova Corp. for $102,483. Around $80,000 is being paid through the county's capital budget, with the remainder from what's called "enhanced 9-1-1 grants."
Heller said the county has been recording dispatch center phone calls and radio transmissions on a computer hard drive, but it's getting difficult to find parts for the eight-year-old unit.
The new system will "give a bit more redundancy," he said, and lessen the worries about getting repair parts for the old unit, or getting them quickly enough.
The county is also spending $17,905 with General Dynamics Satcom Technologies for a communications system analyzer. This replaces equipment at least 10 years old, and is used to let personnel check the radio signals being put out and make sure they are on the correct frequency and performing as desired.
And $13,360 is being paid to Convex Corp. for simulcast equipment. Heller said this gives the county the ability to transmit a radio signal from all its towers at the same time, allowing for better coverage than at present.
This upgrade has been under way in stages, he said, with some channels already simulcast. The installation lets the dispatcher push one button to activate all the towers, rather than the previous method of picking a tower to use based on which tower the police car, fire truck or ambulance seems closest to.
To read about earlier improvements in communications, follow this link:
Hunterdon 9-1-1 Center will start computer-aided dispatching


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Kitesurfing less demanding re physical strength?
View Single Post
16th August 2007, 11:03 PM
Ellen Faller
Dream Team - School
Join Date: Aug 2006
Posts: 75
I can't speak to kitesurfing, but getting started in windsurfing does not demand physical strength if you begin with good technique. Most beginners try to push and pull and work against the rig, and therefore make it a struggle. Using the legs, and keeping the sail balanced are the solution to the struggle. Unfortunately, it seems to be human instinct to do it the hard way. Another problem is that some people try to learn with heavy wave rigs, rather than light and easy trainer rigs. Just because the sail is small, does not mean that it is light by any means!
In observing kitesurfers learning their sport, I can see how the lift of the kite might make it feel that it involves less strength.
hope this helps,
Ellen Faller
View Public Profile
Find More Posts by Ellen Faller


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The mini-city inside Coast Guard Base Boston; family pressures in the Coast Guard
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But the robber didn't get away with any money, police said.
Police were called around 12:45 p.m. to the doctor's office on Flushing Road, west of Ballenger Highway.
The man pointed a gun at an employee and demanded money and fled the scene after not getting any. He was not arrested.
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Lobbying Tracker
Follow Washington influence using Sunlight's Lobbying Tracker tools for keeping up with K street. Keep checking this page as we add more resources and tools to LobbyTrack.
Lobbyist registrations
The lobbying registration tracker has a new home on Sunlight's Influence Explorer, and this version may not be up to date. Check out the new real-time lobbying registration tracker for the latest updates.
Alston & Bird for Urban America, LP
Date received: Oct. 17, 2012
Issues: Real Estate/Land Use/Conservation
Specific issue: GSA leasing of commercial real estate.
Dole, Bob (covered positions: U.S. Senator (Kansas) )
Sural, Jeffrey R (covered positions: Deputy Ass't Sec, Leg. Affairs, DHS; Deputy Assistant Secretary, Legislative Affairs, DHS; Assistant Administrator for Legislative Affairs, TSA; Legislative Counsel, Rep. Vernon Ehlers )
See original filing


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Our View: Falling incomes
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Image courtesy of Amber Funk

These cute dogs from around the world have found homes in Canada through rescues such as Save Our Scruff. Check out their adorable faces and read what their adopters have to say about their pasts, personalities and adorable quirks.
"From the streets of Cancun Mexico to the Beaches of Toronto—meet Nalha! We fostered this pretty girl and right away she stole our hearts, so we went through with the adoption. In the matter of days she was house trained, plus she sits, lies down, shakes both paws, spins, plays fetch and loves to play with all the other dogs down at the beach. She is the best thing that has ever happened to us." –Megan Evans
Follow Save Our Scruff on Instagram.
"This first year with Frankie has been an amazing, crazy rollercoaster of emotions. I've never felt purer love or had more meltdowns. I feel so lucky to have been on the journey with him. His favourite thing is to go on off-leash walks and the second he hits grass or fresh snow he gets crazy zoomies and bounces like a little bunny. It's adorable." –Lauriana Mandody
Follow @feralfrankie
"Sofia is chill. She sleeps most of the day and is pretty calm (except for her nightly bout of energy that lasts about 10 minutes before bedtime). She also sleeps in! I can't imagine my life without Sofia and I guess that's the bittersweet part about adopting a senior dog. We won't have as much time with her as we would with a younger pup, and so we cherish every single day." –Justine Iaboni
Follow at @schnoodlesofia
"A small puppy was recently delivered to my door after a long journey from Texas. Malnourished, weary-eyed and incredibly cautious, the little Belgian Malinois had no idea how lucky she was to be alive. With a reserved yet endearing disposition, her big pointy ears and kangaroo-like bounce, she got a lot of attention. In fact, when I said I was "just fostering" people responded, "You're in trouble." It was after several of these encounters that I realized my naiveté. In less than one week I had pulled a classic "foster fail" move and signed the adoption papers. Best fail ever." –Anon.
"We've had Abl in our family for 14 years now and he is the sweetest old man. Even though he's getting up there in years, he still loves to go on long walks on the outskirts of Winnipeg. He's always had a strong hunting instinct and is very loyal. I love visiting home because I get to see him." –Andrea Karr
"We went to the shelter to visit with a dog we'd seen online, but were encouraged to look at Reggie, a five-year-old black Lab-border collie mix who'd been with them for more than four months. Having two young kids, we worried and wondered what was wrong with him; why had no one adopted Reggie after so much time? It's a fact that black dogs and cats are often overlooked, and that had been the case with Reggie as well. He is the gentlest soul. We tried everything we could that day to rile him up—covering his eyes, holding his muzzle—and nothing did. In the five years he's been with us, he's been the perfect protector (code for: he barks loudly when people he deems "suspicious" walk by the house, but we don't mind) and our constant companion." –Sandra Martin
"After having such a great time with Reggie, the mature dog we adopted three years before, I started to feel familiar pangs, not unlike the tickle in my insides when I thought I might be having second thoughts about my own personal one-child-only policy. In the end, I had a second baby—and adopted a second dog. Bailey is the most universally beloved pooch I've ever met, absolutely thrilled to meet every dog and human we come within 100 metres of on our twice-daily walks. Bonus: he's brought out Reggie's playful side. Now, just as I couldn't imagine not having two kids, I can't imagine not having two dogs." –Sandra Martin
"Cash and Cannon are two loyal brothers from Alabama that currently live north of Toronto and are learning to track and retrieve ducks. They always have their noses to the ground—I believe that's the coonhound in them. At only 10 weeks old, they are teaching me more about loving and caring for something than I've learned in the last 30 years of my life. Cannon is the perfect sidekick. He's the fastest puppy I have ever seen. Cash is the definition of dominant and sets the pace so Cannon doesn't get too carried away." –Joshua James
"Mu has brought so much joy and love into our home. My daughters are learning about responsibility, patience and, best of all, about giving and receiving unconditional love. Mu's calm and gentle demeanour suits us well and she has settled in easily and gently. She is my first ever dog and I was unprepared for how heartwarming, how joyful and how beautiful this would be. What an incredible surprise and such a wonderful gift to our family." –Susan Dawson
"Rookie and Rolland are the perfect black-and-tan duo. Rookie has been with me since a young pup and has had many foster dogs come and go over the years, but we all knew Rolland wasn't going anywhere once he came into our home. These two have quickly become the best of friends. They enjoy long walks, stopping to sniff anything and everything. They are super low maintenance, very easygoing and cuddle the perfect amount." –Allison Wills
"It always brings us such joy to see Riley make small milestones. In this case, walking on metal surfaces like the grate in the photo. It terrified her a few months ago." –Kate Duncan
"Our first few months with Rowdy were tough. Over the year, we've done obedience classes, socialization and private lessons. With lots of persistence and even more love, he's slowly become more comfortable and confident. We've also learned that Rowdy loves to do tricks. He gets so excited seeing us cheer him on after he's mastered a new move. Adoption turned out to be a lot more work than we ever expected, but it's also been so much more rewarding and we can't imagine our life without him." –Anon.
"We offered to escort two pups home to Toronto from our honeymoon in Mexico, never expecting anything other than a good deed well done. Then we met Jello at the Cancun airport covered in ticks but so happy and full of nothing but love. She came home stowed safely under the seat in front of us and has been a dream since then. She loves all the littles in our family, is completely head over teakettle for her tennis ball, and is learning to stay home by herself. We love her!" –Courtney Roytberg
"We got Rocky just a few days from NYE as foster parents and knew within that week that he was too special and adopted him right away. He came to us with a ton of awful hot spots, half a chewed-off tail and major anxiety issues. Lots of training, love and attention and Rocky is doing great and is part of the family like he has always been here. He has the most gentle, sweet personality." –Henna Chaudry
"We welcomed Kona into our family after she was rescued from Northern Quebec. She enjoys playing in the creek, nibbling toys, meeting new friends and going for long walks in the park. She is so smart." –Brianne Gardner
"From day one, Mouse claimed this chair as her throne!" –Sardé Lynn
"When I get home, Cleo twerks for me. She gets really amped up and does this amazing butt dance. She'd be great in an R. Kelly music video. Honestly, she's the best decision I've ever made. When I get home, we battle each other. How excited would you be knowing that when you get home from work there's a dog hiding somewhere in your house waiting to battle you?" –Tristan Tarr
"Poncho and Fido are the best because we simply could not imagine life without them. They enrich every aspect of our lives and we are so grateful that they have made themselves a part of the family. They are incredibly quirky and can be challenging at times, as is the case with all relationships, but their unconditional love and funny personalities make them who they are. To us, they are perfect." –Devon Gerby
"Godzilla was our doggie in an instant. She's a snuggly little pooch with a big heart, and a lover of stinky socks. People ask if she's as ferocious as her name suggests. Well, she'd like to think so!" –Emily Milling
"Cairo is the perfect addition to our little family. We started by fostering him as a three-month-old pup when he was rescued off the streets of Egypt after his mom was fed poison. He arrived on December 23 and it was our first time fostering, but after having him for just a few days we knew that he was meant to stay with us. Our other dog, Cole, instantly became his comfort blanket. We have had a bumpy road with Cairo and our work is not yet done, but he has shown us that even the smallest improvement can bring so much joy. He is loving and protective of our family and will do anything for human attention. He has such a quirky personality and constantly makes us laugh." –Kate Rigby
"Silas is awesome because he is the epitome of a loyal companion. He comes to work with me everyday—earning three milk bones a day—and is my constant shadow." –Amber Funk
Photography by Kevin Wong Credits: Photography by Kevin Wong
|This story was originally part of "Feels Like Tween Spirit" in the June 2015 issue.
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Crunchy-Top Blueberry Muffins
 Photography by Mark Burstyn Credits: Crunchy-Top Blueberry Muffins
 Photography by Mark Burstyn
Photography by Michael Dyrland
"Being indebted to a bank for the majority of my life was never my plan."
Stevie Quinney was tired of her Vancouver lifestyle. Only 22 at the time, she was paying $700 a month for a bedroom in a shared basement suite and struggling with student loans. Then, she started reading The Big Tiny: A Built-It-Myself Memoir by Dee Williams, a tiny house guru of sorts, and something clicked. "It sparked the idea that I could move to a small house, that it was doable," she says.
So doable, in fact, that she contacted her mother in Winkler, Man., about 90 minutes southwest of Winnipeg, and told her that she wanted to move back home and create her own little house—out of shipping containers. Her mom and her stepfather were immediately on board, but the real seal of approval came in March 2015, when, for Stevie's birthday, they bought her two shipping containers to get her journey started.
Steve Quinney in the kitchen of her small house in Wrinkler, Man.
More and more people are embarking on a similar path. Covering everything up to 1,400 square feet (see Small Talk, page 54), the tiny house movement has been gaining momentum. But what's the big attraction?
It's a few things, explains John Infranca, assistant professor of law at Suffolk University's law school in Boston and research affiliate at the Furman Center for Real Estate and Urban Policy at New York University. "We've got a demographic trend of people living in smaller households," he says. "People live as singles for longer periods of time, married couples delay having children or aren't having children at all, seniors are living longer after being widowed and people are divorcing at higher rates. These smaller households are drawn to smaller homes."
At the same time, he says, there's a movement toward owning less "stuff," which has been made easier by technology, as we don't need as much space to store books, music and movies as we once did. Finally, there's the environmental aspect. "The idea of a smaller footprint and less energy-intensive usage is attractive to a lot of people."
That was certainly the case for Stevie. "I've always been conscious of being eco-friendly," she says. "I really like the idea of not having more than you need."
She also liked the idea of owning her home—no mortgage—and designing it to suit her lifestyle. With the shipping containers already purchased, Stevie started researching floor plans online. She'd never done one before, but after looking at some container-house layouts, she drew her own and sent it to her stepfather, who refined the drawings even more.
Stevie built her small house out of two shipping containers given to her by her mom and her stepfather.
He helped with construction as well, along with his brothers, all of whom had experience building sheds, workshops and barns. "They knew a lot about how to do the plumbing and electrical work, so we didn't have to hire anybody," says Stevie. Six months and about $50,000 later, she moved into her 600-square-foot home.
At first, it was rough going. Unlike tiny homesteaders in California or Oregon, Stevie had the Canadian climate to contend with. "The first week, the pipes froze, so I was hauling water from my mom's home," she says. And because there wasn't time to install the wood stove she bought, she had to use a small electric shop heater through the winter. But eventually, warmer weather arrived, and now, Stevie says the place is looking good. "It's really nice. I've got all of my furniture, and my living room is set up."
Beyond the physical comfort of her own home, though, she feels a great sense of accomplishment. "I'm at a stage now where many people my age are getting married, buying houses and having children. It's wonderful, but it's also very expensive," she says. "Being indebted to a bank for the majority of my life was never part of my plan." She values flexibility and life experience over a big house and a mortgage, and she believes that even more tiny houses are on the horizon for those in her age group and younger. "This small house movement is turning into a very big thing."
The home looks out over the Manitoba Prairies.
The pros and cons of tiny living
The upsides
Affordability: You can build your home for much less than the cost of a regular-size home—think anywhere from $5,000 to $70,000, as opposed to more than $1 million in Vancouver or Toronto—and live mortgage-free. Low utility bills: Your heating, cooling, electricity and water usage will cost less than in a regular house.
Planet-friendly: Little homes use fewer resources and take up less space. In addition, many owners use solar power, compost toilets and other environmentally conscious options.
More social time: A tiny interior space may send you out into the world more often. The local coffee shop, for example, could become your home office, or you may be more inclined to go out with friends.
The downsides
Land costs: Your house may seem like a steal at first glance, but land costs could bring the overall expense of your home to much more than you imagined.
Little to no storage: A tiny home is not for those who like to collect books, shoes, clothes or knickknacks. There's just no room for nonessentials.
Less personal space: Though some families do live—and thrive—in small homes, many people would struggle with sharing less than 500 square feet of space with more than one person.
Read more:
How to make a tiny house into your dream home
A budget-friendly camper revamp
8 pieces of small furniture that will maximize your small living space


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Doctor insights on:
How Fast Does Pink Eye Show Up
What if i was exposed to pink eye how many days will it take to show up?
Nope: It tastes nasty, but it is not harmful or poisonous. Your best option is to have it addressed by a dentist or endodontist. ...Read moreSee 1 more doctor answer
Conjunctivitis (Definition)
The conjunctiva is the outer layer of thye eye. Conjunctivitis means inflammation by any irritant. The normal pale clear tissue will look iritated and discolored from light pink to angry red and ...Read more
How long would it take until pink eye symptoms show up?
Conjunctivitis: A pink eye can be due to many things. Classically a "pink eye" is due to viral conjunctivitis and can be very contagious with severe itchiness. It can take 12h-3d for sx to appear. The most natural way to treat it is cold ice packs for itchiness; cold tears in refrigerator helps also. If severe an eyemd can rx stronger drops.Ttp://eyedoc2020.Blogspot.Com. ...Read more
How long after you've contacted pink eye do symptoms show?
4-7 days : Usually 4-7 days.Get a more detailed answer ›
Pink eye - what are the symptoms and how long does it take for the symptoms to show up?
Pink eye!: Lots of reasons for "pink" eye or "red" eye. Infections, both viral & bacterial, are common causes of conjunctivitis. Patients typically complain of an irritation, sometimes gritty, sometimes burning, often w/purulent discharge such that their lids are glued shut in the morning & crusted over. Visual acuity should not be affected. When exposed, one can develop symptoms in hours to days. ...Read more
If I was exposed to pink eye how many days will it take to show up if I really caught it?
Day or two: It will show up in 24-48 hours. ...Read more
How long would it take until symptoms of pink eye will show?
Usually days: "pink eye, " a.K.A. Viral conjunctivitis, like any virus tends to have an incubation period, which is usually on the order of days following exposure. If you develop symptoms, it's best to see an ophthalmologist to confirm the diagnosis, as there are many problems that can resemble pink eye. ...Read more
A child has been around someone that has pink eye, so how long before that child shows eye symptoms?
Depends: Assuming the pink eye is caused by a viral infection (most likely), the time from contracting the virus to showing symptoms can be anywhere from 4-10 days. If it was a bacterial infection, symptoms usually being sooner. ...Read moreSee 1 more doctor answer
How long until pink eye symptoms show up if you played with another kid with it?
Day or so: An eye infection can occur within a few days if you are going to get it. ...Read more
Can you tell me how I could clear up viral pink eye fast?
Not possible: There are a number of viruses which cause this and the length of infection can be from 5-10 days. There is no specific treatment; just drops for comfort. It will clear without treatment and there is no specific treatment to speed up healing.If you are ten days or more out and still have the problem, go b ack to your ophthalmologist for a second look. ...Read more
How would doctors recommend i treat pink eye really fast?
Viral conjunctivitis: Viral infection on the inner part of the eyelid and thin moist "skin"covering the eyeball-called the conjunctiva is called "conjunctivitis." you infect your eye when you touch a surface (or person) with the virus and rub your eye-transfering the virus. Frequent hand washing helps prevent this. Sharing towels or pillows can also cause infection. Antibiotics don't work. Just time 7-14 days. ...Read more
Pink Eye (Definition)
Pink eye is also known as Conjunctivitis. Inflammation of a layer called the conjunctiva is referred to as "pink ...Read more
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Gnarly Trombone: From the Mind of a 6-year-old…
April 1, 2014
The grandkids are here, all week, something we've been looking forward to for several weeks.
Two girls — Caitlyn, 11, and Darby, 9 — and one boy, a 6-year-old named Nathan. They call me "Pa," short for Grampa, and they call my wife "Emma," because a few years ago a granddaughter couldn't say "Grandma," so she used "Emma," and it stuck. My wife's real name, of course, is Linda.
So the kids come to visit Emma and Pa.
It's 6-year-old Nathan from whom we've been learning this week:
» We were out in the backyard with four dogs running around (we have two and our daughter's family has two, so we were watching them, also). My grandson and I were playing baseball. I pitched a ball to Nathan, who slammed it into the side of a house, missing the window by about 2 inches. Luckily, we were playing with a light, plastic ball. As I picked up the ball and turned to go back and pitch, I saw Nathan on his hands and knees, searching in the yellow, dirty, wintry grass for something. He found it: A wad of gum which he had dropped from his mouth to the ground. It took a while to find it, but he picked it up and popped it right back in his mouth. "Nathan!" I said. "Don't put the gum back in your mouth after it's been in that dirty grass." He answers, shaking his head, "Pa, it wasn't there in the grass for a year! I just dropped it!"
With logic like that, I had no answer.
» Snack time at the house: fruit, carrots, stuff that's good for them. They had their choice, of course. "I'll have Cheetos, Pa!" Nathan says with an exclamation point. "They're really good for you!"
"Cheetos?" says Pa. "How can they be good for you?"
Nathan, of course, just shook his head at Pa. "Pa," he says with 6-year-old wisdom, "it says so right on the box!"
» Nathan comes out of the bathroom, and his clothes aren't quite arranged. Emma helps him. "You're still unzipped," says Emma.
"What's unzipped?" Nathan asks innocently.
"Your zipper," Emma says, pointing in the general direction.
Nathan looked down. "You mean my fly?"
"That is your zipper, isn't it?" Emma asked. "No, Emma," Nathan said patiently. "That's my fly!"
Emma was speechless.
» Giving Nathan a bath. Playing with boats and little people and other stuff that floats. And suddenly, it happened: "Bloop!" A bubble came floating out of the bathwater, and Nathan started laughing, and so did Pa, because for guys, Bloopsies are funny. Then he said it: "When I do this at school it's really loud," said Nathan.
And wise ol' Pa said, "You shouldn't do that out loud at school."
"But Pa," Nathan answered, "everybody laughs except the girls."
I didn't have an answer to that.
The name Gnarly Trombone was taken from an 1871 Cincinnati newspaper that misread Horace Greeley's handwritten name of the Greeley Tribune. Mike Peters is a retired Tribune staff writer. He may be emailed at email@example.com.
Trending In: Opinion
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- Mongomery: Amendment 69 could have chilling effects on Colorado's growth
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- Tribune endorsements: Here's your one-stop shop of our endorsements in the upcoming election


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ESPN chief John Skipper is happy to talk to any of the so-called new over-the-top Web video players surfing around the fringes of the cable TV business. But he doesn't see any major deals happening soon — if ever.
NBC Universal creates new sports marketing agency
It's no secret that sports has been the brightest star of broadcast television lately. It pulls big audiences, and those viewers watch live — a combination that advertisers drool over. So NBC Universal figured it was high time to make the most of its sports assets — soon to be coupled with those of Comcast — and today announced the creation of "NBC Sports Agency."
Researchers use Intel chips to build better football helmets
Football players infamously take a serious amount of punishment. Now, Intel is offering up a way to measure the extent of that pootential physical damage.
Sports stadiums going green?
By Sarah McBride
Stadium owners dragging their heels on finding greener ways to power up their high-definition scoreboards and retractable roofs just got a kick in the pants from their league commissioners.
Time Warner Cable's unique ESPN Web deal
Many media business journalists let out a collective sigh of relief at the news that Time Warner Cable had finally inked its deal with Walt Disney to keep carrying its programming, including ABC, Disney channels and various ESPN networks. The programming fee negotiations had gone late into the night past their Wednesday midnight deadline and hacks, who had seen this movie before, were just starting to tire of waiting for another midnight watch.
No Super Bowl blues; expect big TV ratings
The U.S. economy might be weak, but the Super Bowl still scores with consumers.
The CBS broadcast of the National Football League's championship game on Feb. 7 between the Indianapolis Colts and New Orleans Saints should draw strong TV ratings, possibly challenging viewer levels not seen since the late 1990s.
from Summit Notebook:
ESPN: We all live in sports towns (And tell great jokes)
ESPN President George Bodenheimer has been at the business of TV sports, one way or another, for nearly three decades, starting in the mailroom and working his way up.
Tuesday media highlights
Here are some of the day's stories about the media industry:
Amazon Patents Detail Kindle Advertising Model (Mediapost)
Laurie Sullivan writes: "The patents clearly note that Amazon would insert advertisements throughout the ebooks, from the beginning to the end, between chapters or following every 10 pages, as well as in the margins."
Fans still buying tickets, startup CEO says
So how's the market for sports and concert tickets holding up, given the economic turmoil that has dominated the public imagination since last year? Better than you'd think, according to Mike Janes, the founder and CEO of FanSnap, a live-event ticket search engine that launched in March.
Football in 3D, coming to a theater near you
The first-ever 3D broadcast of an NFL game was rushed into movie theaters in three U.S. cities last night, kicking off what many hope could be a new way of generating revenue for theater operators.


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SPRINGFIELD – Fire up the grill and cool down the drinks. Rising temperatures over the next few days in Western Massachusetts will likely deliver the second heat wave of the season.
CBS3 meteorologists forecast temperatures of 90 or better for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Meteorologist declare a heat wave whenever temperatures hit or exceed 90 degrees for three consecutive days.
The two latter days, meanwhile, will see increasing humidity which will make it feel even hotter.
The mercury is expected to hit hit 86 degrees both today and Monday, according to CBS3. The temperature, as of mid-afternoon in Springfield, was 84.
The National Weather Service, meanwhile, is forecasting a chance of showers and thunderstorms for Friday, mostly from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Last week, the first three days of summer ushered in the region's first heat wave of the season.
Pleasant weather is on tap for Independence Day celebrations Tuesday and Wednesday with sunny weather and a high of 84 on both days, according to CBS3.


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Windward volleyball won over Brentwood in three sets 25-11, 25-17, and 25-17 on Senior night last Friday Oct. 27 at Brentwood High School.
With the win, the Wildcats are guaranteed at least a share of the Alpha League Championship.
Windward is 10-3 in the Alpha League second to Sierra Canyon (17-5) who is 9-2 in league play with both losses attributed to the Wildcats.
According to Windward's Volleyball Head Coach Michelle McGuire, the game "couldn't have been scripted more perfectly for the Windward Girls Varsity Volleyball Team on Friday evening in the Jackson Center."
McGuire thought the game was a "great match," and was proud of her seniors.
Tae Butler led the Wildcats with 17 kills, four aces and two blocks while Christina Cornelius had 16 kills, two blocks and two aces.
Ashley Smith, Kelly Kirshner, and Hannah Holmes also contributed strongly for the Wildcats during their three set victory over Brentwood.
Brentwood's next game is away against Campbell Hall on Oct. 30 at 5:30 p.m.
Windward's next game will be determined in the playoff draw that will be released Saturday, November 3.
Copyright © 2011 by Santa Monica Mirror. All rights reserved.


text:
Elvis Costello urges fans not to buy his new album. (mirror.co.uk)
Paramount Pictures sued for fraud. (latimes.com)
Ricky Martin headed to 'Glee.' (tvline.com)
Justin Bieber most searched celebrity. (cinemablend.com)
Jaime Pressley of 'My Name is Earl' returning to TV. (contactmusic.com)
NOTE: Users of modern browsers can open each link in a new tab by holding 'control' ('command' on a Mac) and clicking each link.


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Gas | Wood | Coal | Pellet / Biomass | Electric
Northfield Gas Stove
The Northfield™ cast iron gas stove's classical Early American design and three-side fireview more resembles a piece of fine furniture then a gas stove.
Despite its size, the Northfield boasts an incredibly large fire-viewing – which highlights the realistic dancing-flame fire from any angle in the room.
From high to low, The Northfield has fantastic control over the amount of heat produced.
The Northfield can be installed as a top or rear vent stove and can have close clearances to adjoining walls - so you can literally install it anywhere within your home.
Lopi Berkshire GreenSmart Gas Stove
More information about Lopi Berkshire Stove >>>
Avalon Tree of Life
Inspired by a love of nature, the Tree of Life's delicate branch and leaf design is reminiscent of the natural arches of the trees and branches interlocking.
Many of us commune with trees and nature,spending time in the outdoors to feel connected, refreshed and inspired.
Now you can capture that same feeling in the warth of your home.
More information on Avalon Tree of Life > > >
Also availble with Green Smart Technology
More information about Avalon Tree of Life Green Smart >>>
Wood Stoves
Some of our most Popular Wood Stoves - Contact Us or visit our Showroom for More Stoves
Accessory: Draw Collars for Wood Stoves
America's Favorite Fire - Lopi wood have been America's favorite choice in fire for over thirty years. Their reputation for solid craftsmanship, reliable performance and unbeatable heating efficiency has been an appealing combination year after year, and the favorite fire of families throughout the nation. American made, Lopi heating appliances are designed and hand-assembled at the state-of-the-art plant in Mukilteo, Washington. Each stove comes with a seven year warranty.
Lopi stands behind every single product they make, so they put it in writing. The company has learned and grown with every stove they have built over the years but one thing that hasn't changed is the beauty of the stoves and inserts, performance you can trust and our commitment to your satisfaction. Whether you are new to the family of Lopi heating products or already a part of the family, we invite youto take a look at the newest line of wood stoves and inserts. We know you'll find your favorite fire.
Endeavor Stove With Cooktop Surface
More information about the Lopi Endeavor > > >
Liberty Stove with Cook Surface
The Liberty™ is the largest stove made by Lopi, as well as the cleanestburning large stove ever approved by the EPA. The Liberty has the largest firebox of any big stove, which accepts up to 24 inch logs. It has a single control to adjust air flow, making it easy to achieve burn times as long as 12 hours.
The Liberty's step-top design is charming yet functional, it can be used as cooking and warming surfaces as well as radiant and convective heat. The firebox window is extra-large, allowing you to fully appreciate the captivating fire inside. Installation of The Liberty is more cost efficient as it uses a 6" diameter flue, compared with the 8" flue required by other large wood stoves. The Liberty is approved for Hearth Stove, Alcove and Mobile Home installations.
Lopi Leyden Wood Stove
More information about the Lopi Leyden Wood Stove > > >
More Information about Avalon Rainier wood stove > > >
Lexington Forge Woods Stoves
The wood burning steel stove adds warmth and elegance to any decor. Designed with the latest wood burning technology, this stove proves to be an efficient heat source and is easily installed into almost any room. A high-tech combustion system provides a lively vibrant burn. Traditional styling combined with the warmth and ambiance of a fire make the Lexington Forge® wood burning stove a valued addition to your home. Our designers and craftsman have meticulously scrutinized every detail to ensure that you receive the finest stove built today.
The Savannah Steel Series
More information about Lexington Foge SSW20/SSW40 > > >
More information about Lexington Foge SSW30 > > >
Pellet / Multi Fuel Stoves
Some of our most Popular Pellet/ Multi Fuel Stoves - Contact Us for More Stoves
Cumberland is a multi fuel stove that burns corn or pellets.
A good alternative to burning wood.
"I have been very happy with my purchase. I spent some time comparing stoves and chose the Cumberland because it promised to do a better job of efficiently burning the fuel. As advertised, it produces much less ash compared to others I have looked at in its price range and that efficiency is going to save me more money the longer I use it."
- Scott, West Michigan
Some of our most Popular Coal Stoves - Contact Us for More Stoves
Non Electric for a dependable emegency heat source.
|Saey 92
Tired of being cold, thermostat set at 60, sweatshirt, sweatpants, just to be able to pay the heating bill. Get real!! I work to hard to give my paycheck to the multi-billion dollar utilities. It's time to look at a Leisure Line Coal Stoker. Making heat the affordable way. The people at Leisure Line use the products they sell. We have ten (10) different models to choose from, ranging from 40,000 BTUs to 180,000 BTUs--thermostat controlled or manual controlled, big or small.
Leisure Line Coal stokers make saving money on home heating easy. With our stokers, making heat with inexpensive anthracite coal is synonymous with Leisure Line. Nothing compares to the warmth you feel from our coal stoves. Coal burning is clean and easy with Leisure Line.
Our coal stokers are self-contained with no need to rake or shake down the stove because they are fully automatic. No dust or ash to contend with since it is all contained within the stove. Rice coal can be purchased dust free with an oil solution that is sprayed on at the coal breaker
Electric Stoves
Some of our most Popular Gas Stoves - Contact Us or visit our Showroom for More Stoves


text:
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Ontario premier voices support for racetracks
ETOBICOKE, Ontario – With the end of the racetracks slots program looming March 31, Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne had a positive message for the Ontario horse racing industry Friday.
Speaking at a press conference at Grand River Raceway in Elora, Wynne said that her government would integrate horse racing with the province's gaming strategy, working with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation.
"Racetracks will have access to revenues from new and different gaming opportunities," Wynne said, supporting a recommendation by a three-man panel appointed to study the future of horse racing in Ontario last fall.
The OLG had announced last winter that it would end its slots partnership with Ontario racetracks, which saw 10 percent of revenues go to the horsemen for purses and 10 percent to the racetrack.
The transitional panel recommended that all wagering commissions would go toward purses and that government funding would enable the racetracks to continue operating.
Woodbine and Mohawk signed two-year transition funding agreements Jan. 23. The Woodbine Entertainment Group has eliminated more than 110 positions, some 25 percent of its salaried work force, and is downscaling services in anticipation of a decreased revenue stream.
Wynne also announced that tentative two-year transitional funding agreements had been reached with four Standardbred racetracks – Grand River, Western Fair, Hanover, and Clinton.
Wynne reiterated that the amounts of the funding would not be made public until negotiations with the province's eight other racetracks had been concluded.
The OLG has reached agreements-in-principle to lease the existing slots facilities at all 14 racetracks.
Fixed horse racing should not get a penny of gov'ts money!
Talk about locking the barn door after the horse is gone, there are 109 former employees at Woodbine that lost their income. This decision reeks of political posturing for the Premier and nothing more than a band aid approach to the problem. Watch the pressure roll in over the next 18 months forcing Wynne's hand. The grand days of Woodbine seem to have reached a road block in their upward spiral and may be headed in the wrong direction.
she signed a "SECRET DEAL" with woodbine. it's the truth. can't make it up. welcome to minority politics.
stupid idiot premier trying to get votes when her party already killed the industry. Why didn't she voice her opinion and displeasure before hand.


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The best bowlers in the world raced through the hallways of Brunswick Zone Carolier in North Brunswick throughout this week's U.S. Open, wheeling around bags like they're trying to catch a last-minute flight.
The bags contain up to eight bowling balls — often just one-third of a player's personal collection for the event — to be thrown on different lanes in various situations throughout the day.
"You need a different ball, a different layout, a different surface on the ball for every condition you bowl on, almost every game now," said Jackson native John Petraglia, a Hall of Fame bowler who won 14 PBA Tour titles. "A typical bowler will go through 80 to 100 balls a year now. Relate the bowling ball to NASCAR tires."
The relationship between a bowler and his ball is nuanced, with an attachment when a score is high and resentment when shots go astray.
In the last 20 years, bowling balls evolved from rubber to polyester to urethane to reactive resins, with current technology that can control the amount of chemical friction a ball creates on the lane. The oil patterns that make lanes difficult in the U.S. Open can be manipulated by certain balls.
"The key to the U.S. Open is to hit the one in the front, so you don't want a lot of change of direction — until you bowl second," said Chuck Gardner, a production specialist for Brunswick Bowling & Billiards. "There's actually math to it. I'm not a physics major, but I understand math, and the drilling angles based on a bowler's release have everything to do with what a ball does."
Gardner travels from tournament to tournament to oversee how the balls play for bowlers under contract by Brunswick. When the U.S. Open was last in New Jersey in 2009, Brunswick's popular ball was "Avalanche Solid." Some bowlers who played well on these lanes two years ago called Gardner to track down that ball for this year — even though the technology improved in two years.
When a given bowler plays poorly, it's up to Gardner to deliver a different ball for the next round. He already drilled 100 balls this week, and that's only for the players under contract from his company. His team needed to drill a ball yesterday morning because of a bowler's last-minute impulse.
At January's Tournament of Champions, Gardner drilled a ball for Tom Smallwood after a design devised in the early hours of a Las Vegas morning after Gardner had a few beers in his system.
"That drilling is what he's used almost all this week," Gardner said with a hint of pride in the ball's success.
The tournament's undeniable leader through the first two days was Fero Williams, a 30-year-old non-PBA member who makes his money in tournaments, leagues and at the pro shop he owns in his hometown of Fairfield, Ohio. Williams plans to open another one in Atlanta because there's a market for a "good driller" who succeeds in bowling as much as he does and understands the construction of the ball.
"That's the one thing about bowling: If you don't know your equipment, you're dead in the water," Williams said. "Sometimes it's a guessing game. You can say, 'I think this ball will work good' and come to find out it's hit-or-miss."
Williams, who was a computer major at USC with a keen interest in math, has known how to drill balls for seven or eight years but only commercialized the practice this past year. He wanted to master the craft before "messing" someone else's ball. Williams estimated only 5 percent of professional bowlers can drill their own equipment. Andres Gomez is among other notable bowlers who drills during their spare time.
The drilling and micromanaging of the balls all comes long before the vulnerable moment when the bowler releases the ball. That's when the relationship with the ball is at its most intimate. Walter Ray Williams Jr., one of the best bowlers in the sport's history, brings the ball close to his mouth and breathes into the finger holes for more moisture.
"It does look like I'm kissing the ball, but I don't kiss the ball," Williams Jr. said. "A lot of the pros do that."
And Bill O'Neill, the hottest bowler this season, always undertakes the routine of wiping his shoes and the ball, a methodology he compared to Tiger Woods' routine before a golf shot. Yet after three spares during one game in yesterday afternoon's round, O'Neill retreated to the bag he carried through the alley hours earlier. He exchanged balls, finding one that worked better on the lanes. O'Neill proceeded to shoot five consecutive strikes.
"You need to trust the ball that's going to do what it's assigned to do," Gomez said. "When you throw a good shot and you see the ball doesn't, you change it right away. That's why all of us have about 30 balls here."
Zach Berman: email@example.com


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Last week's storm, which took many of us by surprise, hit my town of West Orange particularly hard. As I write this the local streets are still strewn with tree limbs and downed power lines, giving the town a look of Mischief Night gone wild. Travel is circuitous and treacherous. Schools were closed for three days and the mayor took the unprecedented, but necessary step, of postponing trick or treating. My neighborhood lost power for over three days.
A few ideas resonated from my experience.
• Embrace ambiguity and uncertainty. At the storm's outset, my wife and I were unable to drive home since the only road was closed. We parked about a mile away and began our trudge in 5 inches of snow through South Mountain reservation. With large branches falling all around us, we nervously trekked home. People plan and the gods laugh.
• No amount of planning can protect you from the unforeseen. Many homeowners, businesses and governments found this out over the last several years. Thus, the ability to deal with unforeseen and ambiguous circumstances is what sets people and organizations apart. Inability to deal with uncertainty can be a career killer. Instead, when faced with ambiguity it is important to think differently. This can be accomplished by brainstorming ideas, seeking advice and watching what others in similar situations do.
• Keep lines of communication open. Devoid of power, we were cut off from the world. The uncertainty associated with being uninformed and powerless, both literally and figuratively, was not easy. Even more difficult are the rumors that fill the void and lead to heightened expectations that unmet create crestfallen spirits. For example, the power companies' vagueness in addressing power restoration resulted in rumors. In business, openly address issues because if you do not I guarantee it will be spun negatively by the organization's undercurrent.
• You are strong and resourceful. We are often more capable to face adversity than we believe. Absent power, my family, like many others, found small ways of coping and even enjoying the respite from modernity. My family packed snow into containers to preserve food, gathered candles and sleeping bags and placed chairs around the fireplace.
• Career setbacks or interruptions only turn into disasters if you let them. Stay focused on what is important. Do not let events out of your control become distractions or bring down your attitude. Changing circumstances must result in different behaviors.
• Build and maintain relationships. Relationships, the key to success in life and business, need constant cultivation, particularly before you need them. Relations with neighbors and friends were vital for moving branches together, watching children, 'borrowing' homes for showers and moral support.
In our business lives, relationships are our lifeblood, helping us achieve professional goals and as the networks we tap into when switching jobs. Adversity sheds light on the strength of your network and can serve as a wake-up call to improve it.
Find the silver lining. The power outage led to an abundance of family time. Disconnected from our countless electronic devices, my family connected with each other. Each day and night we worked in concert and communicated clearly. Huddled in front of the fireplace with a closeness that is difficult to achieve in today's world we had true family time.
In business, seize the opportunity to learn from your difficulties. Assess what caused the situation, and importantly, what can be done differently in the future. In business, when one door closes another one opens, you just need to know where to look!
Go back to basics. While I prefer to choose the time and venue for my camping expeditions, I learned a lot from the primitive milieu. Absent 21st century technology, we were left with books, newspapers, board games and each other's company. It was very nice.
Too much business is conducted via Blackberries, conference calls or email. There is no substitute for face-to-face, undistracted communications. This is something to prioritize.
Finally, while I enjoyed the respite, I missed the amenities of modern living. When power was restored my family was dancing around the house in joy. We are no longer going to take fundamentals like warmth and lights for granted.
Mark Schnurman may be reached at email@example.com or on the web at markschnurman.com.


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|[TowerTalk] Beverage Termination - POTS?
|firstname.lastname@example.com (Tom Rauch)
|Tue, 12 Feb 2002 08:27:50 -0500
> ....someone was mentioning using wirewound potentiometers for > terminating receiving antennas...not circuit board pots but > bigguns...oldies like you see in the flea markets at hamfests...are > these easier to obtain than honest to goodness carbon resistors...and, > can you actually see the performance peek as you sweep the pot...of > course I guess you need to get a buddy who is willing to stand in the > middle of a dark field late at night whilst you listen on the RX for > things to peak up...definitely NOT single op stuff! A few cautions: Be careful with inductive resistors, like wire wound pots, at radio frequencies. DC resistance can have little to do with RF resistance. If you have a MFJ antenna analyzer, you can sweep the analyzer frequency at feedpoint and watch SWR change with frequency. Properly terminated antennas have little SWR ripple over a wide frequency range. Note it does NOT matter what the actual absolute SWR value is, what you want is minimum SWR **change** with frequency. If we measure input Zo of the antenna, proper termination comes from sweeping frequency and finding the highest R and lowest R values at frequencies where the antenna is an odd-1/4 wl and even- 1/4 wl long. Multiply R highest times R lowest, and then find the square root of that. Say we find R highest at 2.5Mhz with a value of 800, and R lowest of 200 at 2 MHz. We know a lot from that! We know the antenna Zo is sqrt of 200*800, or 400 ohms. Termination would be 400 ohms against a perfect ground system. We know the antenna is 492/ 2* (Fhi-Flow) long in electrical feet, or 492 feet long electrically. We can measure through a transformer (if we keep leads short) if we know the transformer ratio. I can find the termination resistance of ALL my Beverages without help, using a standard MFJ-259B. I can not only tell what the antenna impedance is, I can tell how long the antenna is electrically. Because of the velocity factor, all Beverages are noticeably longer electrically than they are physically. It helps to know the electrical length of thee antenna you are actually using when making arrays of Beverages, or looking for a certain pattern. 73, Tom W8JI firstname.lastname@example.com ________________________________________________________________________ Where do you get ICE bandpass filters & beverage matching boxes? The same place that pays for the hosting of this list: The eHam Store. Order online at http://store.eham.net. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- ----- FAQ on WWW: http://www.contesting.com/FAQ/towertalk Submissions: firstname.lastname@example.com Administrative requests: firstname.lastname@example.com Problems: email@example.com
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