text:
Prosecutors and defense lawyers will finish their closing arguments this morning. U.S. District Judge Myron Thompson told jurors that they should be able to begin deliberating after lunch.
Defense attorneys for two current and two former state senators gave their closing arguments Thursday and accused prosecutors of trying to distort innocent conversations and fundraising calls. The attorneys told jurors that the legislators never tied their votes to requests they made, or offers they received, for campaign contributions.
Jim Parkman, a lawyer representing Sen. Harri Anne Smith, I-Slocomb, lampooned the prosecution's evidence in the two-month-long trial. Repeating a line he used in closing arguments in HealthSouth founder Richard Scrushy's corporate fraud trial, Parkman called the case a "Wisconsin prosecution."
"You know what a Wisconsin prosecution is. It's got more holes in it than Swiss cheese. It's got hole after hole after hole," Parkman said.
Parkman disparaged the prosecution's witnesses, saying the case is based on testimony from admitted felons, liars and people who have no respect for African-Americans and women.
Smith, VictoryLand owner Milton McGregor and seven others are on trial accused of taking or offering bribes in connection with gambling legislation before the Legislature last year. The bill at the center of the case would have set a statewide referendum aimed at letting McGregor and others offer electronic bingo machines in their casinos.
Parkman said Smith did initially oppose the building of Country Crossing casino in her district, but changed her position in April 2008. Smith changed her mind because polls showed that the project was incredibly popular, and not because of campaign contributions from Country Crossing developer Ronnie Gilley, as prosecutors have alleged, Parkman told jurors.
Parkman's flamboyant closing was filled with one-liners and pop culture references to "Scooby-Doo," "American Idol," "The Beverly Hillbillies" and Jerry Seinfeld.
Parkman said Gilley and other witnesses had repeated "Scooby-Doo moments" on the witness stand, when they were caught in mistakes and inconsistencies. For example, Gilley gave a date of a meeting with Smith, but the meeting couldn't have occurred then.
"Ruh-Roh," Parkman said.
A lawyer for Sen. Quinton Ross, D-Montgomery, told jurors that prosecutors were trying to take Ross' innocent fundraising calls out of context and distort them into something "sinister and evil."
Ross is accused of trying to extort donations from casino owners as a vote neared on the gambling bill.
Attorney H. Lewis Gillis said Ross did call McGregor and lobbyists for Country Crossing to request a donation. But there was never any discussion of how Ross would vote on the bill, Gillis said.
Gillis said Ross, who had sponsored a similar bill in the past, did not threaten to vote against the bill or promise to vote for it. Aggressive fundraising is legal, Gillis told jurors, as long as the politician isn't linking the money to an official action.
"He stands before you innocent of these charges," Gillis said.
Defense lawyers for two former state senators told jurors that their clients were the victims of misunderstandings and lies.
Attorney Bill Clark told jurors that former Sen. Larry Means, D-Attalla, did tell casino interests he needed help in his campaign, but he never tied those requests to his vote.
"He never asked for a campaign contribution in exchange for a vote. He never agreed to accept a campaign contribution in exchange for a vote," Clark said.
Clark said Means' words were misinterpreted by prosecutors and two corrupt lobbyists.
Gilley and two of his lobbyists -- Jarrod Massey and Jennifer Pouncy -- pleaded guilty to bribery and testified for prosecutors in the case.
Pouncy testified that Means asked her for $100,000 shortly before the Senate vote on the bill, and she believed he wanted the money for his vote. In a call caught on FBI wiretap, Means told McGregor he needed help in his election campaign and would like to help McGregor on the bill, if he could.
"There's nothing on that recording that even comes close to a bribe," Clark said. "If you listen closely, Larry Means doesn't tie any request to any vote."
Means did not vote on a March 3, 2010, procedural vote on the bill. But he did vote for the bill on March 30 of that year. Clark said Means voted for the bill because it had been revised to give Etowah County a better shot at landing a casino.
Ron Wise, a lawyer representing former Sen. Jim Preuitt, R-Talladega, also hammered at the credibility of prosecution witnesses during his closing argument. Gilley has testified that he called Preuitt at home to offer him help for his campaign if he would vote for the bill. Massey testified that he also authorized Pouncy to offer Preuitt up to $2 million in campaign help. And Pouncy testified that Preuitt at one point wanted to know whether the commitment would stand even if the bill did not win final passage from the Legislature.
But Wise contended Gilley, "learned at an early age how to swindle, how to con," and he said Pouncy was caught in inconsistencies in her testimony, including the date of her meeting with Preuitt.
"When she got caught in a lie, she started to cry," Wise said.
Wise said Preuitt, who had voted against casino owners on a March 3 procedural vote, ultimately voted for a revised bill on March 30 because he thought it was fairer to counties that did not already have casinos.
"Not one witness said that Jim Preuitt demanded anything," Wise said.
A lawyer for former legislative employee Ray Crosby in his closing argument did not provide an explanation for the $3,000 a month that McGregor paid to Crosby for approximately two years. Crosby was in charge of writing the gambling bill.
Attorney Tommy Goggans said it's up to prosecutors to prove their allegation that the money was to draft legislation as McGregor wanted. Prosecutors failed in that task, he said.
Goggans said the evidence showed Crosby was not drafting legislation in McGregor's favor.
McGregor and Crosby did talk about the bill, but Goggans said that was because the bill's sponsor gave him permission to talk to McGregor about it.
Susan James, a defense lawyer for Country Crossing spokesman Jay Walker will make her closing argument this morning. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Feaga will make a rebuttal argument for prosecutors before the jury begins deliberating in the case.
Brendan Kirby from the Mobile Press Register co-wrote this story.
Join the conversation by clicking to comment or email Chandler at firstname.lastname@example.com.


text:
Steve Carell is headed back to television. Sort of.
The former star of The Office will lend his voice to an episode of The Simpsons in the fall of 2012, coming on board the iconic sitcom as Dan Gillick, an accountant for Fat Tony who is actually placed in charge of the mob when his boss is stuck on jury duty.
"He's nervous, and then Fat Tony says that he's got to kill some people and then he's really nervous because he actually wants to do it," producer Al Jean tells EW of Carell's character. "The line between Ivy League MBA and ruthless murderer is a very thin one."
The actor won't be heard until the show's 24th season. In the meantime, of course, visit TV Fanatic each week for the latest Simpsons quotes.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
J & M Coolroom Constructions began in 1987 and has provided Perth and regional Western Australia with twenty nine years of professional and friendly service.
J & M Coolroom Constructions specialises in designing and installing coolrooms, freezers and other insulated panel constructions for the commercial and industrial sectors.
To ask us a question or to receive a quotation for a coolroom, freezer or other insulated panel construction please fill out the following form with your contact details and a detailed description of your requirements.


text:
Find tickets for sports, concerts and theatre events on FanXchange's secondary ticket marketplace and get the best seats for live events.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical Tickets
Neil deGrasse Tyson Tickets
Motown - The Musical Tickets
Discover new restaurants, spas, things to do & more great deals added daily!
You can change your email preferences at any time
By clicking Continue, I agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Statement
No Thanks
*Valid on 1 unit per transaction; max 1 Local deal or Getaways flash deal per customer. New customers only. Exclusive and non-transferable. Max discount $30. Ends 12/31/16. Limited quantities available.
Exclusions apply. Full details: gr.pn/promofaq.


text:
A new state record for freshwater drum was set recently by a Rochester area angler in Lake Ontario, the state Department of Environmental Conservation has announced.
James VanArsdall of West Henrietta caught the fish in Irondequoit Bay in Monroe County on June 14. It measured 33.5 inches and weighed 26 pounds 9 ounces and breaks the previous state record by more than 2 pounds.
He caught the fish while trolling, using a Reef Runner stickbait (silver and blue with a red belly), according to the Niagara Gazette.
Freshwater drum are also referred to as "sheepshead" and primarily dwell in large rivers and lakes. Their pronounced blunt head allow them to be easily identified. With numerous small round teeth made for crushing, drum feed mostly on freshwater snails, clams and crayfish.
For more information on this unique fish species visit DEC's website.
VanArsdall submitted details of his winning catch as part of DEC's Angler Achievement Awards Program, which tracks state record fish. Through this program, anglers can enter freshwater fish that meet specific qualifying criteria and receive official recognition of their catch and a distinctive lapel pin commemorating their achievement.
The three categories that make up the program are: Catch & Release, Annual Award and State Record.
For more information about the Angler Achievement Awards Program, including a downloadable application form, go to DEC's website.
Program details and an official entry form can also be found in DEC's current Freshwater Fishing Regulations Guide.
For additional information on the Angler Achievement Awards Program call (518) 402-8891 or email email@example.com.


text:
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- The Coast Guard will close waters of the north end of the Bayou Casotte Harbor on Saturday morning to allow VT Halter Marine to side-launch car carrier ship Marjorie C.
Port of Pascagoula Harbormaster Randy Joplin said the ship will launch from VT Halter's Pascagoula yard, causing a wave of up to 3 feet when it hits the water.
The launch is planned for 9:30 a.m. The water closure will begin at 8:30 a.m. and last until 10:30 a.m.
Two Coast Guard vessels will be enforcing the closure zone for waters north of the Chevron refinery, Joplin said. The Pascagoula Police Department will be closing the boat ramp adjacent to CC's Bait Shop, which is immediately north of VT-Halter Pascagoula.
Coast Guard Sector Mobile will be broadcasting a safety message to mariners beginning Friday.
The message will say the side-launch process poses a danger to small vessels, and it will request that all vessels refrain from transiting the area.
Marjorie C is the second vessel built by VT Halter Marine for Pasha Hawaii. The first was Jean Anne, which was put into service in 2005.
The 692-foot-long Marjorie C is a combination container and roll-on/roll-off vehicle carrier with the ability to carry 2,750 vehicles.


text:
The St. Louis directory for 1848 /
Reit, Jacob, cabinet maker , 314ssouth Second
Reitermann, Andrew, cooper , Carr near Sixteenth
Remenscheider, Ernst, bucket maker , Carr near Sixteenth
Remington, William H., manf'r. rectifying coal , corcorner Biddle and
Remington, William T., moulder , corcorner Third and Poplar
Renard, Adolph, U. S.United States recorder of land titles , 89 Chesnut
Renard, Hyacinth, 55 Locust
Renderr, J. M., hatter , 72 First, resresidence 71ssouth Fourth
Rendoff, Edmond, clerk , 164ssouth Fifth
Renfrew, John, machinist , 272 nnorth Fifth
Renick, George, [L., R. & Co.] Chouteau avavenue
Renner, Daniel, laborer , Seventh betbetween Park avavenue and Barry
Renners, Christopher, cooper , 45ssouth Second
Renou, Isaac, carpenter shop , Franklin av b Sixth and Seventh,
resresidence Pine betbetween Seventh and Eighth
resresidence Pine betbetween Seventh and Eighth
Renshaw, William, secretary Citizens' Ins. Co. , 148ssouth Third
Rent, Adam, tavern , Morgan near Fifth
Rerer, Martin, butcher , Marion betbetween Jackson and Columbia
Resids, Hermann, steward , Ashley near First
Retgar, F., Virginia Hotel
Retter, Peter, painter , 98ssouth Second
Reuff, J., cordwainer , 6 Vine, resresidence corcorner Second and Locust
Reutermann, Philip, cabinet maker , cor Carr and Seventh
Reuth, W., ladies' furnishing store , 132 nnorth Third
Revell, Michael, tavern keeper , 15 Morgan
Rew, B. B., carpenter , 92 Biddle
Reyburn, Thomas, M. D. , 182 Olive
Reyburn, A. M., clerk , 118 nnorth First
Reyburn, Thomas G., com.commission merchant , 8 Olive, resresidence 182 Olive
Reyburn, John S., com.commission merchant , 8 Olive, resresidence 182 Olive
Reynolds, J. C., iron dealer , 24 Front, resresidence Glasgow's Row
Reynolds, William C., engineer , First near Florida
Reynolds, Henry, carpenter , Walton House
Reynolds, Jeremiah, 124 nnorth Fourth
Reynolds, Henry, laborer , corcorner Second and Cherry
Reynolds, Samuel, 71 St. Charles
Rhine, John, laborer , 104ssouth First
Rheinlander, Marinus, grocer , corcorner Almond and Second
Rhoda, Joseph, tailor , 298ssouth Fifth
Rhode, Michael, laborer , Easton betbetween Barton and Hickory
Rhode, William, stone mason , 102 nnorth Eighth
Rhodes, Christopher, com. merch. , corcorner Olive and Commercial
Rhuchan, Thomas, 125 nnorth Ninth


text:
Local balladeer Matthew Byrne brings his songs to the LSPU Hall stage Thursday evening
Matthew Byrne will headline his first show as a solo musician Thursday at the LSPU Hall in St. John's. — Submitted photo
He's played to festival-size crowds before, but this one's going to be big in another way.
Matthew Byrne's Thursday show at the LSPU Hall in St. John's will mark the balladeer's first formal headlining gig as a recorded solo artist.
In a sense, it should also help authenticate his standing as one of the island's powerful new voices in traditional song.
For a few years now, the 27-year-old St. John's native has been acclimatizing himself while gradually moving to the fore of those carrying the legacy of traditional Newfoundland music into a new generation.
And it's no fluke that he might indeed be among the best suited for the task.
Byrne was born into a musically rich family with deep roots in resettled Placentia Bay and was, he says, "bred into (singing) because I was around it so much."
His mother, Linda, is a longtime collector of old ballads and unaccompanied songs.
After moving to St. John's in the 1970s, she helped foster the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival and the St. John's Folk Music Club.
Joe, Matthew's father, rose to local musical prominence three decades ago after recording the seminal Newfoundland record "Towards The Sunset" in 1983 with his brother Pat and friend Baxter Wareham.
A lifelong exposure to a familial love for song naturally steered Byrne's trajectory toward a musical life.
"There's a huge repertoire out of Placentia Bay and out of rural Newfoundland alone, which I'm drawing from. I just happen to be drawing from the family stuff that came to me, product of place," Byrne tells me, his hand on a pint of Kilkenny in front of him.
It's mid-afternoon on a sunny spring day and we are seated just a few feet from the stage at The Ship Pub, where both he and members of his family have entertained enthusiastic crowds many times before.
"The singing tradition was already there for me," he explains. "I just had to decide whether I wanted to carry it on or not."
Byrne sang and played tunes his whole life, but it wasn't until about three or four years ago he started to think seriously about making a record.
"I was steadily getting to the point where I was kind of thinking, all right, I feel like my musicianship is up to snuff," he says.
"I started thinking about this collection of songs, and by the time I realized all of the definites were enough to make a solid record, I said, all right, I think it's time to go for it."
With the help of friend, producer and accomplished traditional musician Billy Sutton, Byrne whittled his choice down to a dozen songs or so and took them into the studio.
"Billy just basically rung me like a sponge to get every drop of good music out of me," Byrne recalls. "He pushed me to my limit and wouldn't let me settle for anything less than what he knew I could do."
The result was Byrne's 2010 debut album "Ballads," a collection of songs that showcase his fine-tuned vocal abilities, melodic guitar playing and keen aptness for breathing new life into old classics and rarer collected songs while respecting the tradition in which they came to him.
"Banks of Newfoundland," for example, Byrne learned from his mother, who collected it from Staverton Bridge when the British folk duo visited Newfoundland in the 1970s.
He learned "Young Riley" from his uncle Pat, who has been singing it for years, Byrne says.
"I learned it off him and started singing it myself, and when I asked him where he had got it, he told me he had learned it from my great Uncle Jack out of Southeast Bight," he explains.
"Jack is 98 and is now in a home in St. John's. I went up to visit him for his 96th birthday a couple years ago and I sang that one, and he sang every word."
"Barque in the Harbour" highlights Byrne's playing skills and, with its four-piece string arrangement, is one of the more unique versions of the song to be recorded.
"It ended up being very orchestral," he says. "I'd heard Dad sing that one unaccompanied from an early age … and I did a kind of slow, ballady guitar arrangement, and we ended up getting the quartet on it and making it really kind of sad and sweet."
On the whole, "there's no real nugget of anything that connects all of these songs other than the fact that they are, in my mind, a collection of songs that are great stories told through great melodies," says Byrne. "And some of them are sad, some are happy — most of them are sad, actually," he laughs, sipping his pint.
"Some of these songs were given a fair bit of instrumentation and intricacy for the purpose of the record, and for making them all that the studio could," he continues. "But I find lately I've gotten back to a mode of stripping them back to the way they originally were … because the dynamic of the song shows it has so many lives. Or I might add music to one that I didn't record with music just to … see if I can make it new again."
That summer, in 2010, he shouldered a trio of performances at the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival and was invited to join popular young trad band the Dardanelles as vocalist and bouzouki player.
His debut gig with the Dardanelles happened to be at the Winnipeg Folk Festival, one of Canada's most prestigious outdoor musical events.
"That was trial by fire," he laughs. "It was the biggest gig I've ever done."
On the coalescence of fortunate events into a momentous year, Byrne says it all makes sense looking back on 2010.
"I think the ("Ballads") album release was a good catalyst for joining the Dardanelles," he explains. "I was developing a musical relationship and a good friendship with all of them at the time anyway, and then they were seeing the songs and how (they) fitted with what they wanted to add to the Dardanelles, so it was just kind of a
natural progression.
The group never plays a show without incorporating at least one of Byrne's own songs into the set.
Together they recorded the band's sophomore album in 2011, a remarkable effort called "The Eastern Light" which they will tour around the island this August, says Byrne.
In the meantime, Byrne says he plans to record a new album sometime in the coming year, again with Sutton enlisted to produce.
"It won't be called 'Ballads II,'" he laughs, explaining how he plans to diversify the songs on the new record.
For now, though, there are still a lot of fresh ears to play for in town and across the island.
At the LSPU Hall he will be joined by Sutton and Dardanelles band mates Emilia Bartellas and Aaron Collis, plus a few special guests.
"Nobody will know who they are till the night of the show," he says with a smirk.
We'll undoubtedly be hearing from Byrne plenty more in the coming years, but this week's gig, being recorded by the CBC for regional and possibly national broadcast, will likely be one for the books.
Tickets are $20 at the LSPU Hall box office (753-4531) or online at www.rca.nf.ca. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and showtime is 8 p.m.


text:
Rubio committee assignments unchanged
U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio will serve again this Congress on the Committee on Foreign Relations, the Select Committee on Intelligence, the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation and the Small Business Committee.
"I'll be honored to continue my work on the Foreign Relations and Intelligence Committees, where I've already had many valuable experiences in my first two years in the Senate," Rubio said in a statement. "I've had the opportunity to travel around the world to Afghanistan, Pakistan, Libya, GITMO, Haiti, Colombia, Spain and Germany to represent our government and see first-hand the important work being done by American men and women overseas. In the coming Congress, I intend to remain closely involved in the duties of the Foreign Relations and Intelligence Committees, including the advancement of America's interests around the globe and the careful oversight of these vital government functions.
"I've also greatly valued my experiences on the Commerce Committee, including my continuing work on several issues of great interest to Floridians, such as policies affecting NASA and Florida's space coast, trade with our hemispheric neighbors, and oversight of our important fishing industry," Rubio continued. "Through my work on the Small Business Committee, I've been privileged to work side-by-side with many business leaders throughout Florida and across the nation. Small businesses play an integral role in the growth of our nation's economy, creating the majority of new middle-class jobs and representing the best of the American Dream. I am excited to carry on my work on this important committee so that we can continue to be the most inviting nation in the world for those wishing to start a business."


text:
|By Nadir (Nadir) on Tuesday, January 28, 2003 - 07:01 pm: Edit
hey. i am an international student and i would like to apply to the harvard summer school program. the thing is, i am a sophmore and even if i do get accepted, i am still not sure if i will be able to go(family issues). i know that if i get accepted for next summer i will certainly be able to go. if i dont get accepted this summer, that might decrease my chances the next year. do you guys think i should apply now to see what my chances are, or just wait until next year ?
|By yosef on Tuesday, January 28, 2003 - 09:34 pm: Edit
i would wait... by the way where are you from?
Report an offensive message on this page E-mail this page to a friend
|Posting is currently disabled in this topic. Contact your discussion moderator for more information.
|Administrator's Control Panel -- Board Moderators Only
Administer Page


text:
August 6, 2013
UCSB Postdoctoral Fellow Wins Baxter Young Investigator Award
Postdoctoral Fellow Seung Soo Oh is one of the 2013 recipients of the Baxter Young Investigator Award for his research on aptamer polymer hybrids. Oh is a researcher in the Soh Lab and in the Hawker Research Group at UCSB.
Baxter International Inc. is a global healthcare company specializing in medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. To further promote innovative research, Baxter sponsors an annual award program for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows.
Baxter's Young Investigator Awards are intended to stimulate and reward research applicable to the development of therapies and medical products that save and sustain patients' lives. First tier awards include a $2,000 cash prize and an onsite presentation of the award-winning research. Second tier awards will receive a $500 cash prize.
Related Links
Copyright © 2016 The Regents of the University of California, All Rights Reserved.


text:
A moose on the loose at a ski resort in Vermont took skiiers by surprise and became somewhat of a celebrity.
No email address was supplied by
To complete your registration on this site, please supply an address.
Please confirm or modify the email address to which you will have subscription offers sent.
For a more personalized experience, please supply the following optional information.


text:
WOODBURY – With snow pummeling the area and freezing temperatures coming in the near future, work to restore heat to the Woodbury Court Apartments continued Tuesday, although officials were unsure if the landlord's self-imposed Wednesday deadline would be met.
Woodbury administrator Michael Theokas on Tuesday said work to install the new boiler continues on pace. However, he could not say if residents, most of whom have been lodged at the Quality Inn motel in Gloucester City for the past two weeks, would be permitted to return home by Wednesday or sometime later in the week.
"They're progressing with the installation, but I know what is happening outside my window isn't helping matters," said Theokas, referring to Tuesday's snowfall. "Installation is imminent, though."
Residents were evacuated from Woodbury Court late on Wednesday, Jan. 8, when residents reported to the city and the Times that the heat at the complex had been busted for at least two weeks.
The owner of the complex, South Broad Street Associates, of Lakewood, had distributed electric space heaters while repairs were attempted, but many residents stated they were insufficient when local temperatures dipped into the single digits.
South Broad Street Associates is paying for the motel rooms at the Quality Inn.
A letter circulated among Woodbury Court residents by the landlord on Thursday, Jan. 9, indicated their stay could last up until Jan. 22.
"That's a date set by the landlord, but I'm not sure if (the residents) would be moving back in on the 22nd or the next day," said Theokas. "First thing, we need to make sure the property is safe, that the heat is working and that the electrical is also in proper order.
"With the cold weather coming again, that is very relevant at this point."


text:
Documents relating to: Infectious Mononucleosis in Teens and Young Adults
1 in 6 Female College Freshmen Raped While Incapacitated: Study
2 of 3 Parents Want Schools to Expand Health Education
3 Health Issues That Can Threaten Young Female Athletes
5 Tips to Help Teens Get Needed School-Year Zzzzzs
ADHD Medications Linked to Sleep Problems in Kids
ADHD Meds May Raise Risk for Psychotic Side Effects in Some Kids: Study
Adult Obesity Still Growing in U.S., Youth Rates Hold Steady: CDC
Alcohol Ads Should Be a No-See on TV for Kids
Average Age of First-Time Moms in U.S. Still Rising: CDC
Booze-Branded Merchandise May Spur Teen Drinking
Boys Victims of Dating Violence, Too
Brain Changes Seen in Kids After One Season of Football
Brief Return of Concussion Symptoms Normal Part of Recovery: Study
Bullies May Face Higher Odds of Eating Disorders: Study
Candy-Flavored E-Cigarette Ads Appeal to Young: Study
CDC: Too Few Schools Teach Prevention of HIV, STDs, Pregnancy
Chemical-Free Cosmetics May Be Safer for Teen Girls, Study Suggests
Child Obesity Rates Drop in Canada
Childhood Cancer Death Rates Continue to Fall: CDC
Close Bond Between Kids, Parents Has Long-Term Health Benefits
Concussion Rates Have Doubled Among U.S. Kids
Does TV Influence Which Alcohol Teens Favor?
Drug Overdose Rates Soaring Among U.S. Youth
Early Emotional Support May Help Kids Manage Feelings Later
Farm Kids Get Fewer Allergies, International Study Finds
Female Pelvis Widens, Then Shrinks Over a Lifetime, Study Finds
For Kids Playing Pokemon Go, Catch These Safety Tips
For Teens With Leukemia, Pregnancy Tests Often Neglected
Gardening May Give Kids' Diets a Boost
Healthy Diet as Teen, Less Weight Gain as Adult
High Blood Pressure Might Affect Some Kids' Thinking Ability
Homeless Youth More Likely to Visit Drop-In Center Than Shelter
Homemade 'Dewshine' Can Be Deadly
How One Clinic Got a Big Boost in HPV Vaccination Rates
How to Help Keep Your Kids Safe This Fall
Illegal Hits Play Big Role in Youth Ice Hockey Concussions: Study
Insulin Pumps Give Kids With Type 1 Diabetes Better Blood Sugar Control
Jello Shots While Underage, Bigger Booze Problems Later?
Keep Illicit Drugs, Booze Out of the Home to Lower Teens' Addiction Risk: Study
Kids With Bipolar Disorder More Likely to Abuse Drugs, Alcohol: Study
LGBT Immigrants Often Faced Persecution in Homeland: Study
Limit Kids' Exposure to Media Violence, Pediatricians Say
Many U.S. Adults Think Kids' Health Is Worse Today
Mental Illness May Make Teens Vulnerable to Drugs, Alcohol
More Kids and Teens Heading to ER With Headaches
New School Lunch Program Lets Kids Select More Nutritious Meals
No More Than 6 Teaspoons of Added Sugars a Day for Kids
Obesity Can Send Kids' Blood Pressure Soaring: Study
Online Video Games May Boost High School Students' Academic Skills
Others' Drug, Alcohol Use May Trigger Bad Behavior in Teens
Overweight Kids Often Shunned, Bullied
Play to Win When It Comes to Kids and Sports Pain
Put Vaccines on Kids' Back-to-School List
Rate of Youth Soccer Injuries More Than Doubled in 25 Years
Rates of Severe Obesity Among U.S. Kids Still Rising: Study
Rise in Kidney Stones in Teens a Cause for Concern: Study
Rule Changes Might Lead to More Lung Transplants for Kids
Scare Up Some Halloween Safety
Sending Kids Off to College Doesn't Have to Be Tearful
Simple Changes in Bad Neighborhoods Might Lower Teen Murder Rates
Skateboarding Mishaps Send 176 U.S. Kids to ERs Every Day
Sleep Loss May Be Tied to Raised Diabetes Risk in Teen Boys
Sleepy Teens Are Risk-Taking Teens
Some Teen Girls Coerced Into Pregnancy: Study
'Standing Desks' in Classrooms May Kickstart Kids' Activity
Stay Alert for Child Drowning Dangers This Summer
Study Questions Use of Antidepressants for Children, Teens
Study Ties Parents' Criticism to Persistent ADHD in Kids
Suicide Can Strike Children as Young as 5: Study
Summer Days Shouldn't Be Lazy for Kids
Teen Birth Rate at Record Low in U.S.
Teen Moms May Ignore Advice for Helping Babies Sleep Safely
Teenage Girls Now Try Alcohol Before Boys Do: Study
Teens' IQ Drop Can't Be Blamed Solely on Pot: Study
Teens Who Tan Indoors May Be More Likely to Smoke, Drink, Use Drugs: Study
The Safest Way to Get to School Is a Big Yellow Bus
The Younger the Mother, the Worse Her Health at Midlife: Study
Troubled Kids' Psychiatric Care Often Delayed by Insurance Rules
TV Booze Ads a Lubricant for Teen Drinking: Study
TV Ratings for Parents Let Violence, Drinking Slip Through
U.S. Births Up, Teen and Preterm Deliveries Down: CDC
Waning Whooping Cough Immunity Blamed in Outbreaks
Weight Gain a Challenge for Children With Autism: Study


text:
See on Scoop.it – BiltrixBoard
Many of the questions guiding scientific investigation on the origin of life seem to disregard alternate questions that ought to be obvious. Why are they overlooked?
See on www.facebook.com
See on Scoop.it – BiltrixBoard
Many of the questions guiding scientific investigation on the origin of life seem to disregard alternate questions that ought to be obvious. Why are they overlooked?
See on www.facebook.com
What is the latest in bioethics?
One of the buzzwords of bioethics in the next few decades will likely be "neuro". When I was in medical school, we were told that little is known about how the brain works. However, neuroscience has gained a lot of knowledge in these last 30 years because of the advances of imaging techniques coupled with powerful computer technology.
The tremendous progress on understanding how the human brain works can revolutionize our comprehension of ourselves and our society. Hence, there are important ethical implications on how to apply this new knowledge. More…
The problem with many passages of the Gospel is that they are very simple. We can so easily miss the point. That is why it is necessary to take into account the whole when reading a part, or, at least to take into account other passages of Scripture.
Jesus' appearances after the Resurrection have a pedagogical role. More…
Sebelius Grilled: More…
Last Sunday after Mass I was talking with a young family. One of the children said to me, "Did you know my daddy can lift me up on his shoulders?" As if on cue, her dad did just that. Then, with a big smile, the child said, "He is so strong he can even lift a house." To which I replied, "I know, I saw him do it once!" Her eyes got real big.
Every child feels safe in their parent's arms. Here they find love, care, and security. More…
Fish have always been a sign of Evangelization, so the same holds true for the New Evangelization — but why?
I've heard many reasons for this; recently came across one that really moved me. I'll save that one for last. For now, I will say that I learned it from this guy: More…
"Dangerously Prophetic!" says Fr Robert Barron. Here are two Christian interpretations of the Movie, based on the best selling novel series: More…
Since Thursday is the day when we contemplate the Luminous Mysteries, instituted by Blessed John Paul II, I decided to dedicate today's article to Our Lady of Light, depicted in the painting above by Russian artist, Natalia Tsarkova. (Click on the photo above for a larger image).
Before I explain the painting, here is a video explaining the artist's relationship with the late John Paul II. More…
Since the USCCB issued it's recent call to action, the controversy over the HHS Mandate is back in the news. Several public protests against the mandate by Catholic groups that will include priests and religious are expected throughout the nation for two weeks, from June 21 to July 4.
Meanwhile, the secular press keep will keep repeating the same old lines aimed at repudiating conscientious objectors. I would like to respond to some of their misleading allegations here. More…
Reporting on the joy of the Catholic faith
This WordPress.com site is the cat's pajamas
"Dios es luz" (1 Juan 1,5-7)
Domenic/havau22.com / IF YOU CAN'T BE THE POET, BE THE POEM (David Carradine) LIFE IS NOT A REHERSAL,SO LIVE IT.
Thanks be to God who does wondrous things.
how will you answer?
The Confluence of Poetry and Spiritual Direction
keeping my head in the clouds
Living life in the freedom of God's love
memoirs of aly (the way i see it).
My Journey to the Church
...there is no knowing where you might be swept off to.
Let not him that girdeth on his harness boast himself as he that putteth it off. I Kings 20:11
Lord, you know all things. You know that I love you.
See! I'm doing something new! Isaiah 43:18
Blog on A COURSE IN MIRACLES and A COURSE OF LOVE. . .with Celia Hales
Musings of a Reactionary Whippersnapper
Just another WordPress.com weblog
How many of us actually do?
Stimulating books for the discerning Christian
For I know that my Redeemer lives Job 19:25
A fine WordPress.com site
A topnotch WordPress.com site
With all the problems in the world its time to get back to the basics. This blog will center on a new perspective, one person at a time.
The Daily Knowledgeable Post
Arts Science and Religion for True Adults
Thoughts on Orthodox Christianity and Psychology
A worship leader's missus and her views from the pew
Nourishment for Body, Mind, & Soul while in pursuit of the Way, the Truth, & the Life
saints and novenas
...integrating Christian faith and knowledge in the public square
Opening DOORS to AMPLIFY and ENTERTAIN Social Good
Living the Hosea 2:14 Life
My journey to the priesthood and experiences along the way.
Inspired Software™
My Name is Yanira Vargas. I am a Senior at Washington State University. I love all things expression and creative. I was in a relationship with my childhood best friend of 4 years, who happens to have had passed away with stage 3 brain cancer. I still believe in God, and in the beauty of mircles. Join me and embark on this journey with me.
Theological musings of a committed Catholic
A blog reaching out to victims of abuse and others in need, providing insight about abuse, hope for the future, and guidance to see THE LIGHT that lead Secret Angel out of the darkness of her own abusive situation and helped her to not only survive but to overcome.
"We ought to make some progress, however little, every day, and show some increase of fervor. We ought to act as if we were at war as, indeed, we are and never relax until we have won the victory." St. Teresa of Ávila
Called to holiness, called to motherhood, called to love no matter what
DISPATCHES FROM THE CAMP OF THE SAINTS [DHS-Certified Rightwing Extremist / White House Certified 'Fishy' / Carter-Certified Raaaaacist! / Kafir]
Miscellaneous Utterings From Best Friends
Finding Hope in Christ
News and views from Catholic News Service and its client publications
There are many like it, but this one is mine.
...with stories, poetry, spirituality, motivation, breaking news, actuality, thoughts....


text:
Howdy All,
So I am using LXDM with an Enlightenment desktop and I am having one small issue! For some reason when I have LXDM set to auto login my E17 startup applications do not run. However when I manually login to an Enlightenment desktop from LXDM my E17 applications launch just fine.
I was wondering what LXDM might be doing on a manual login that it ISN'T doing on an autologin? Also a quick (hackish) fix to my problem would be to be able to launch my network manager on LXDM login - is there a way I can have LXDM fire a command after a user logs in?


text:
Just for the summer, there's a place nearby dedicated to telling the tales of turtles.
And you might be surprised to learn that even the slowest of journeys can be exciting.
There's a life-sized board game at the Delaware Museum of Natural History in Wilmington, Delaware.
"People are really fascinated by turtles," said Teresa Messmore. "They sort of capture their imagination."
Thrusted into the spotlight, the live turtles are year-round residents at the museum.
A new exhibit for the summer, called "Turtle Travels," put the red-eared sliders, eastern-painted and Mississippi mud turtles center stage.
A critter cam gives you a turtle's eye view.
As you learn more about the turtles, you begin to see the challenges they face and what you can do to protect them.
A moveable housing development shows you some of the impact we have on turtles' homes.
You can experience life in the slow lane and realize that no matter how long it takes to get there, turtles have some pretty amazing journeys along the way.
If you go: The Delaware Museum of Natural History is located 4840 Kennett Pike in Wilmington. Call 302-658-9111 for more information.


text:
When it comes to supporting veterans in need, talk is cheap and plentiful, but action is scarce.
That wasn't the case in Agawam Tuesday, when the state turned over the former Western Massachusetts Regional Police Academy to Northampton-based veterans agency Soldier On for the magnificent sum of $1.
Soldier On plans to convert the academy on Westfield Street into studio apartments for 40 to 42 homeless veterans.
Lt. Gov. Timothy P. Murray, who presided at Tuesday's ceremonies, underscored the importance of the project when he said we have "a generational responsibility" to help veterans.
That responsibility will grow in the years to come as the Iraq war winds down and the war in Afghanistan rages on. More and more veterans, including tens of thousands who have received serious wounds, will be returning home from those wars.
Most will pick up their lives where they left off, but some won't. And that's where organizations like Soldier On step in.
, helping veterans to rebuild their lives by providing veterans with shelter and other services.
A key effort in rebuilding those lives should be to find veterans secure and stable places to live. State Rep. Rosemary Sandlin, D-Agawam, who spearheaded the project, called it "a hand up, not a handout."
Soldier On has said the veterans will be able to buy into a cooperative for the apartments, which means they will be paying property taxes on their apartments.
For most of its life, the red-brick building on Westfield Street served as a reform school for delinquent boys. From 1984 to 2005 it served as police academy.
Come spring, when construction should begin on the apartments, we think the building will see its finest hours. That's when it will become a home for the soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen who put their lives on the line to keep America secure.
They took an oath to serve us. The new facility should help honor our responsibility to them.
Editorial: Bay State honors pledge to veterans
The Republican Editorials By
on August 26, 2010 at 12:00 AM
on August 26, 2010 at 12:00 AM


text:
Currently residing in Hattiesburg, Miss., apparently out of the picture in Green Bay, Wis. and almost certainly not heading down the road to New Orleans, Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre is officially searching for a new place to call home.
According to the Associated Press, the recently retired quarterback has requested a release from the Packers so that he can join another team and make his return to the NFL.
While the New Orleans Saints don't figure in his immediate plans, you've got to figure a Favre return impacts the entire National Football League, in particular any teams ... Saints included ... trying to make an '08 playoff push.
So with that in mind, I thought I'd add another bit 'o speculation to the current overanalysis of the Favre situation and offer my five best fits for Favre's services. Yeah, it's not ground-breaking, but at least it's something to talk about in the cold, dark days of the NFL offseason.
5.) Chicago Bears: Some people will have you believe the Ravens or Jets are one player away from contention.
Those people are idiots.
The Bears are one of the few teams you can say that about, given their killer defense and special teams ... and what they've suffered through at the quarterback position over the years
Rex Grossman? Me no likey Sexy Rexy, and neither does anyone else on the planet not named Jerry Angelo. Can he wise up and upgrade the position? Probably not, so I'll just list the Bears at No. 5.
4.) Arizona Cardinals: It's no cinch Favre can still bring it, and provided he's completely washed up and a shell of his former self, I can think of no more perfect location for him than the dry desert heat of Arizona, where wilting quarterbacks go to die.
You thought you'd seen enough with Boomer Esiason and Kurt Warner? I say, bah to that! Let's watch Favre overthrow wide open receivers to the tune of 40 interceptions and marvel at what a mistake it was for him to come back (just like every other washed up player before him ... I'm looking at you Emmitt Smith!).
Of course, if Favre has anything left in the tank at all this is an awful place for him, but this should be his No. 1 choice if, as is very possible, he's running on "E" this summer.
3.) San Francisco 49ers: If I had to guess, I'd say the 49ers could be somewhat competitive if they had anyone other than Alex Smith quarterbacking their team (okay, anyone NOT named Rex Grossman, David Carr or Kyle Boller).
They've got the running game. They've got a young and talented defense. They've got a couple of crazy coaches willing to overlook Favre's inevitable avalanche of interceptions. In other words, they've got the perfect situation for him.
Everything other than a realistic shot at a Super Bowl, that is.
Darn, I knew I was missing something.
2.) Wal-Mart: Perhaps the preeminent employer for the retired in the entire country, Wal-Mart would take a relatively spry Favre in a heartbeat, and what's more, Favre has to be completely qualified to do it (something we can't necessarily say about him playing quarterback in the NFL in 2008).
It's really ideal if you think about it. Wal-Mart, not normally lauded for its employee benefits (though they've gotten better recently), wouldn't have to worry about the "Ironman" ever taking a sick day. Likewise, the super retailing giant would certainly look the other way when Favre's errant throwing motion puts customers' items in the wrong bags. He's a Hall of Famer for Pete's sake!
He'll also already be retired, so it's not like he can keep retiring and unretiring from the store after taking the job ... or can he? Hmmm.
Look, I'm not knocking it. I know when I'm 70-plus and out of money I'll be working there too.
1.) Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings upgraded their defense in the offseason and already had the best running game in the NFL. Add Favre to the picture and you've got yourself an instant Super Bowl contender.
In reality, this is just too perfect a scenario. Favre would come back to Green Bay on opening night (the night his jersey was to be retired) and instead of being honored by the home team, defeats his former squad as a member of the hated Vikings.
Does it get any better than that? Only if he mooned the fans while he did it, but it's still pretty darn close to being perfect.
That's why it will probably never happen, as the Packers will do everything in their power (including not granting Favre a release) to prevent it.
It's still fun to dream though.


text:
During the school year, The News highlights the accomplishments of area high school students. This week, the spotlight shines on students from Belleville High School.
Sierra Westcott
Grade: 9.
Parents: Tracy and Jeremy Westcott.
Favorite subjects: Math, English.
Best lesson learned from a teacher: "Don't wait for things to happen, make them happen. I think this is important because many people don't live their life to the fullest."
School activities: Softball, volleyball, Science Olympiad.
Community activities: Volunteer with church group at Wayne County Homeless Shelter.
Post-high school plans: Attend college to receive teaching certificate.
Staff comment: "Sierra is one of those students who only comes along once every few years. She has transcended all levels of expectations and will continue to be a dynamic character." - Nekole Smith
Saybin Roberson
Parents: Jerome and Lisa Roberson.
Favorite subject: Band.
Best lesson learned from a teacher: "Live for yourself, always try to satisfy yourself. It's important because if you try to satisfy someone else you won't be happy with what you did or miss a good opportunity."
School activities: Basketball, marching band.
Community activities: Soup kitchen volunteer.
Post-high school plans: Attend college to study business.
Staff comment: "Saybin is a hard-working, intelligent young lady. She is a pleasure to have in class. I am expecting great things from Saybin in the future." - Falisadoll Green
Kyle Bauser
Parents: Robert Bauser and Kimberly Bauser.
Favorite subjects: History, art, welding.
Best lesson learned from a teacher: "If you want someone to learn something, you have to be patient with them."
School activities: German club.
Community activities: Volunteer work through church group, motorcycle charity rides.
Post-high school plans: Attend Schoolcraft College and major in biomedical engineering.
Staff comment: "Kyle is a pleasure to have in class. He works hard and always has a positive attitude. He challenges himself with his projects and is very talented." - Abby Chatelain
Gabrielle Boyer
Grade: 11.
Parents: Kevin Boyer Sr. and Cynthia Harris-Boyer.
Favorite subjects: Social studies, history, English.
Best lesson learned from a teacher: "Be who you are and love it. This is important because if you miss out on the best of yourself, you'll be miserable. So love what you love, be who you are and don't try to fit into a box you can't fit in."
School activities: Track, cross country, National Honor Society, technical crew, running club, choir.
Community activities: Church choir, volunteer at veterans hospital in Detroit.
Post-high school plans: Attend the U.S. Air Force Academy and major in history and political science.
Staff comment: "Gabby is an amazing young lady with an incredible sense of self awareness. She is articulate, pleasant and insightful. I have enjoyed teaching such a winsome young lady!" - Melissa Lloyd


text:
This deal has ended.
Originally $499.95, Hammacher Schlemmer still has their USMC Combat Jacket for only $249.95. This three-ply Gore-Tex jacket is the same worn by the US Marine Corps and is tested against the Earth's harshest conditions. It's designed to protect soldiers from temperatures ranging from 20 F - 120 F. Shipping (normally $22.95) is free on orders over $100 via coupon code VISAWON08.No longer available


text:
MONTGOMERY -- The state Legislature this afternoon passed a $12.6 billion state education budget.
The Senate passed the budget 33-0. It was little different from the version passed by the state House of Representatives on May 3, and the House later in the afternoon concurred with the changes. The budget now goes to the governor for his signature.
The budget and related spending bills would spend a record $6.7 billion from the Education Trust Fund, an increase of $461 million over this year. It also would spend $5.9 billion in federal grants, state property taxes and other funds reserved for specific schools, universities or other areas.
The budget pays for 7 percent raises starting Oct. 1 to the roughly 100,000 teachers and other employees of public schools and two-year colleges, at a cost to taxpayers of $269.4 million a year.
David White
For more details, read Wednesday's Birmingham News.


text:
TANGO Dress
CENTROPELLE Shoes
From LANDMARK Earrings
Weddings are always fun. You get to wear pretty dresses and accessories, and get all dolled up with your girl friends. It's been a while since I last attended a wedding, so I was excited to prepare for this one. When I found out that the event required us to wear formal attire, I thought I'd look for a new dress so I would be able to wear something else than the usual blue and lace gown I've been wearing for the past few occasions. I didn't want to get anything too expensive or extravagant, so I was looking for something that wasn't an all-out formal gown. And tadah! Here's what's I found!
This dress was on sale in Tango. It was the first dress that caught my eye when I was looking around TriNoma. After hours of searching elsewhere, I came back to the first store I entered. I'm really fond of Tango dresses. They're a reliable shop if you want elegance with a great fit. My graduation dress was also from Tango, and they've yet to disappoint me :)
I was going for a grecian look with this dress. It's draping fit and asymmetrical cut was the reason behind that. So I went for a loose and messy bun with accent earrings and my trusty gold bangle. I am particularly proud of my makeup for this event hahaha. I opted for smokey and shiny eyes, which I really liked. Sorry for my lack of proper makeup terminology :P
Martha and I wearing matching colors, with a more colorful and fun gown from Abby :) Love love love her floral and draping skirt!
Some of my favorite girls in the world. I love how our colors all blend together! :)
Hurray for weddings! Congratulations to the newly weds! And thank you Abby for inviting us to sing for your brother's special day.
What's your dream wedding dress? Any ideas yet? I'd love to hear 'em ;)
That's all I have for today guys! Hope you enjoyed this post!
You can hype this on lookbook.nu
Photo credits to Irvinne Redor
Ciao readers :)


text:
The University of Michigan will start investing in startups. The University of Michigan
The University of Michigan has gotten praise for its graduate program in entrepreneurship, and now it's putting $25 million of its money to work backing startups spun out of Michigan research.
University president Mary Sue Coleman said today the investment wasn't based on softheartedness toward homegrown researchers, but a cold-eyed assessment of return on investment for a small piece of the university's $7.8 billion endowment.
"Simply put, University of Michigan startups are a good financial opportunity," Coleman said in a statement. She explained the university's financial experts had analyzed investments made in venture capital and found the University of Michigan could have had an equal or better return by putting money into startups that had their genesis at the university.
Rafael Castilla, Michigan's director of investment risk management, told Portfolio.com his office had examined 20 years' worth of data and found "the returns were comparable to historical venture capital returns" for startups connected to the university.
AnnArbor.com's Nathan Borney reports that several companies that came out of the university's labs have been sold to larger corporations for prices ranging into the hundreds of millions of dollars. This year alone, medical-device company Acccuri Cytometers was sold to Becton, Dickinson and Co. for $205 million.
Castilla said the direct investment from the university into homegrown startups is rare for an institution of higher learning. "It is the exception rather than the rule," he said. "It's probably on the leading edge of what's happening in technology commercialization at universities."
Sign up to receive Upstart Business Journal's free daily email newsletter, weekend edition and breaking news alerts.


text:
|Energy / Sustainable Design
Responsible design is an important influence at Advanced Engineering Consultants. We are fortunate to have clients that desire to have high performance buildings in their real estate portfolio.
AEC is a Columbus Green Spot Business and a member of the US Green Building Council. AEC has a high percentage of LEED Accredited Professionals on staff. A significant percentage of our projects are either pursuing LEED certification or must meet the strict requirements of the Federal Government's Energy Policy Act (EPACT) of 2005.
Working in this environment has made us proficient in the process of designing sustainable facilities for our clients. Advanced Engineering Consultants' interests and efforts involve the following concepts:
Advanced Engineering Consultants believes that the cost of fossil fuels is on the verge of an historic ascent and that our clients will increasingly recognize the importance of managing and reducing their energy costs. We have staff with Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Certified Energy Auditor (CEA) and Certified Commissioning Authority (CxA) credentials and provide the following energy related services:


text:
Thankful for Freedom Riders
I would personally like to thank each and every one of the Freedom Riders. You made a difference in a lot of people's lives. You took a stand for what was right. To fight all the oppression, that also needs to be commended. That is something we all need to think about in our everyday life. You can make either a good or a bad decision but for a person to take a stand for what is right against all odds, there is not a word that I can find to express my appreciation.
Barbour showed his heart
Governor Haley Barbour, we don't agree on a lot of things, but I do want to thank you for acknowledging the Freedom Riders. It takes a big person to fill those big shoes. You may have more heart than some may think you have. Thank you, governor.
Policeman cordial, helpful
I want to thank the Moss Point Police Department, especially Officer Johnson, for helping me out with the problems I had in Moss Point. He was very nice and cordial and really helped me out during the whole process. Thank you.
Use drug money to fuel cars
If Mike Byrd has confiscated drug money to put fuel in the helicopter, why doesn't he use the money to put gas in his patrol cars and not keep coming back to the supervisors for more money? A concerned taxpayer.
Give sheriff more to fight drugs
To the person complaining about the sheriff's helicopter, I would be willing to help him buy another helicopter and a fighter plane if it would stop the drugs in this county. He is doing a great job. The person complaining about the helicopter should go along with him and see some of this stuff.
Outsiders can have fresh ideas
I wonder why the people in Jackson County and Moss Point and Pascagoula are so down on Superintendent Kim Staley? Is it because he is from another state? I have known of other people from another state and they are not down on them as much. Let the man do his job and stop trying to run everybody off that is not a Jackson Countian? I am sick of the good old boy stuff. Get somebody from out of state or the county.
Safety may be an issue
We all know there is a need for children that need money for sports. The problem is not whether they need the money or not. The problem is the children walking out in traffic at intersections asking for the money. That is the problem.
Need more community gardens
To all educators, I challenge everyone in Jackson County, since we have background of farmers maybe it would be good to implement a community garden. Teach our kids gardening skills.


text:
Mundelein, ILUSA
August 13, 2013
Love to bike and run in good company!
Help support your Meetup
The Lake County Bicycle Group (LCBG) was established to connect cyclists in the Lake County, IL area with other like-minded folks for camaraderie and fun! Rides are offered for all ability and experience levels - both road and trail - for round-trip distances of 20 miles plus in a non-competitive, friendly atmosphere. We host regularly scheduled rides in and around Lake County as well as participate in events open to the general public, such as Bike the Drive and the Four Star Bike Tour. Jaunts to local hangouts - breakfast, pizza, or brews, anyone? - in addition to destination day trips and overnight treks are also part of our itinerary. Spandex optional :-)
LCBG Social Networks Facebook LCBG Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/LakeCountyBicycleGroup Facebook LCBG Member Group Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/932605886796297/ Facebook LCBG RAGBRAI Riders Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/915070898525667/ Garmin Connect LCBG Page: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/group/1505821 Ride With GPS LCBG Group Page: https://ridewithgps.com/groups/Lake-County-...
10% discount on parts and accessories (bikes excluded).
684 Members
1,571 Fun Friends and Singles
1,211 Members
453 Dream Catchers
757 Beautiful Women
1,258 Ultimate Frisbee Players
Meetup members, Log in
By clicking "Sign up" or "Sign up using Facebook", you confirm that you accept our Terms of Service & Privacy Policy


text:
SYDNEY — Jamey Jewells of Donkin will compete for Canada's national women's wheelchair basketball team during a pair of international tournaments this year.
© Submitted by Jamey Jewells
Jamey Jewells of Donkin will compete for Canada during a pair of international events this year.
Wheelchair Basketball Canada announced her name among the 12 athletes who will represent Canada at the 2011 Parapan American Games, Nov. 12-20 in Guadalajara, Mexico.
She'll also wear Canadian colours during the first-ever Women's Under-25 World Championships, July 15-23 at Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario.
Previously, she had been named to the national team that's heading to the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, England.
"There were a lot of sacrifices," she said in recent interview with the Cape Breton Post.
"I had to move, leave my friends and family, do a lot of travelling and had to sacrifice school. But it's all totally worth it."
Jewells' selection to the national team follows her recent play for Team Nova Scotia during the 2011 Canada Winter Games in Halifax.
Jewells has also competed in the United States, every province in Canada, and will visit Manchester, England, in May before moving to Germany in late September to play pro.
"We are very pleased to welcome Jamey and Maude (Jacques) onto the team," said Team Canada head coach Bill Johnson in a press release.
"We feel that their skill and youthful energy, combined with the experience we have gained at past events including the 2010 world championships, and our talented group of veterans will be the precise mix to put us back on top of the world as we look forward to the 2012 London Paralympics."
Johnson added that he was confident Team Canada is "precisely" where they want it to be as a program and as a team at this point.
The Parapan American Games double as Canada's opportunity to qualify for the 2012 London Paralympics, where the team is looking for its fifth podium finish in the last six competitions.
Besides Jewells, the 2011 Canadian lineup includes seven returning paralympians and 10 players that were part of last year's team that won a bronze at the 2010 world championships.
That bronze was the team's sixth consecutive podium finish dating back to 1990. It is a run that includes four straight gold medals in 1994, 1998, 2002, and 2006.
At the last Paralympic Games in 2008, the national team finished fifth after four consecutive podium finishes including three straight Paralympic gold medals in 1992, 1996 and 2000 and a bronze medal in 2004.


text:
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- Colt Ford couldn't envision himself zooming around in a high-tech Batmobile, wearing pointed ears and a fluttering cape. Bouncing off skyscrapers, using spidery threads for a slingshot, really wasn't his style, either.
But when Ford was approached with the idea of being a redneck superhero, he responded with an immediate "Heck, yeah!"
Those might not have been his exact words, but we do know the sentiment was G-rated and enthusiastic, in keeping with a comic book designed for children.
Ford, a country artist with four albums to his credit, also is a devoted family man. He believes in truth, justice and the American way, but Southern hospitality and good manners are just as important to him.
"Obviously, being a dad, there's a lot of stuff I've seen, traveling all over the country," says Ford, 43, a Georgia native. "You see tons of fantasy things in the comic book world, but there's not much for a country kid."
To remedy that, he signed on to star in "The Average Joes," a comic book series created by his record label, Average Joes Entertainment, and published by 12-Gauge Comics.
12-Gauge, a Birmingham-area company, previously collaborated with country star Trace Adkins on a 2009 series called "Trace Adkins Is Luke McBain." That one was a tough-stuff actioner in the "Walking Tall" vein, but "The Average Joes" has a younger audience in mind.
"It's kind of like the Saturday morning cartoons," says Keven Gardner of Pelham, founder and president of 12-Gauge. "It's very lighthearted. Everything's over the top and everyone has these goofy powers. It's definitely aimed at kids."
Ford -- a "talking country" singer known for tunes such as "Chicken & Biscuits," "No Trash in My Trailer" and "She Likes to Ride in Trucks" -- collaborated on the comics with his professional partner, Shannon Houchins, and the artists and writers from 12-Gauge.
"He was definitely hands-on in making sure it sounded like him," Gardner says. "Once we figured out what we wanted to do, we really hit the ground running."
Houchins, CEO of the Average Joes company, actually came up with the idea of a Colt Ford comic, as an extra goodie for fans and a nifty marketing tool.
The first issue of "The Average Joes" comic will be packaged with Ford's next record, "Thanks for Listening," set for release July 1. (It'll be included in a special CD edition available at Walmart stores, and sold at the merchandise table at his concerts.) Other artists from the Average Joes label appear in the comic, backing up Ford as his superhero buddies.
"I never set out to be a superhero," Ford says, laughing during a phone interview. "I'm just a fat guy who likes to eat Slushies and play music for a living."
In "The Average Joes," he battles foes using backwoods wisdom and rural savvy, along with wristband projectiles and a power boot stomp. One of his comrades, Clay Sharpe of the Lacs, is a shapeshifter who can transform into anything redneck.
Other members of Average Joes rely on a guitar-shaped crossbow, laser sunglasses, superhuman strength, invisibility, a banshee yell and yes, the ability to change into mud. (It's messy, but effective.)
In the first comic, Ford and his friends must defeat the City Slicker, a villain who clogs a nearby dam with his development project. City Slicker also threatens to spoil the fun at an outdoor concert, but the Average Joes come to the rescue.
"It's about teamwork and working with friends and watching your friends' backs," Gardner says. "We think kids are really going to respond to it."
The comics series has benefits from a business standpoint, of course. Ford's fan base includes plenty of youngsters who attend shows with their parents and crave kid-themed merchandise.
"They're trying to do something truly forward-thinking, giving back to their fans and building fans for the future," Gardner says. "It's a neat project for us to be involved in."
Ford, who's working on a children's book, says he's doing his best to communicate valuable lessons to his youngest listeners, teaching them about friendship and family, hard work and sharing, loyalty and dedication.
"If I don't believe in it, I'm not going to do it," Ford says. "There's nothing more important to me than being authentic and real."
So look sharp, Metropolis and Gotham City! A new breed of superheroes is targeting Small Town, U.S.A.
"Maybe I could do a comic called Fatman," Ford says, laughing. "They made me a little thinner than I am in this one, and that was cool."
More from entertainment reporter Mary Colurso: Features, reviews, columns and news items, November 2006 - present.
More Birmingham entertainment: News and features on music, dining, movies, TV, visual arts, books, living and fashion.


text:
1/4" Wash-A-Way Wonder Tape
A must have item for those who love to sew!
This pressure sensitive tape is easy to stitch through and will not gum up your needle. It is transparent and a hassle-free alternative to basting and pinning. Easily washes away when the fabric is washed for the first time. Holds zippers, seams and hems in perfect alignment. Must be kept in a cool place.
1/4" x 10 yds.
1/4" x 10 yds.
Overall rating:
How do you like this product?
Share your thoughts with the Annie's community.
You must be logged in to leave a review. Please log in.
Customers Also Purchased
Heat Press Batting Together Tape
$4.49 - $47.99
Just Right E-Covers Sewing Pattern
(PDF download only)


text:
Tasting Notes
Delicate aromas of lilies, roses and freshly cut grass with intense flavors, crisp acidity and hints of vanilla. Refined and balanced with good depth and a long finish.
Technical Notes
Whole clusters were pressed, fermented in tank and aged on its fine lees for 12-15 months; 25% in French oak barrel (25% new) and 75% in stainless steel.


text:
Program Management Training
Adonia R. Simpson, Esq. is readying Catholic Charities of Baltimore, Maryland to serve a rapid increase in the number of immigrants. This is a result of President Obama's executive actions announced on November 20 offering administrative relief to an estimated four million immigrants.
An incredible story of perseverance, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Cleveland has recently reconstituted its immigration legal services (ILS) program, with two full time attorneys and a full time Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) accredited representative. Over 780 immigration consultations have been provided since 2011, and the program expects to generate 28% of its budget in fee income this year. The program's current success is no small feat and was achieved with considerable effort over the last three years. Cleveland's story is a case study for CLINIC's capacity building services


text:
Oporto "Trindade" Romantic Studio
Maximální počet hostů2
Počet místností1
Velikost38 m²
Floor No.3(with elevator)
- Kuchyně
- Televize
- Kouření povoleno
- Výtah v budově
- Balkón/terasa
- Internet/WiFi
- Ručníky
|João das Regras, 4000 Porto, Portugalsko
|Typ nemovitosti
|Ident. objektu
|Acceptance rate
|Response time
|A few hours
|Calendar updated
|2 days ago
The Studio "Trindade" welcomes you for a minimum stay of 3 days to 1 month touristic or professional. Perfectly situated 100 meters from the main metro station - Trindade and in the center of the city. Given its location, the area is quiet. Find aromantic space with all the serenity and comfort you need after a day filled withsightseeing, shopping or work. The need for a stay easy and enjoyable.
Its exceptional location allows you to move on foot starting to explore the surrounding area: from sights, shops / shopping of St. Catherine Street, the traditional trade, Ferreira Borges market, Avenue of the Allies, emblematic monuments, art galleries, river Douro, Port Wine Cellars and nightlife district.
Make yourself at home
No smoking inside the flat. Please use the terrace
Please Respect the neighbours
Please report any breakages
Check in: 14:00
Check out: 11:00 - This is depending on your arrival/departure times and other guests coming or going and also to allow us time to clean the flat.
Cleaning charge covers 3 hours of cleaning.
It would be much appreciated if you could keep the apartment clean and tidy. Many Thanks
|Cena za více než 2 ubytované(ých)
|16 € Cena za osobu/noc navíc
|Maximální délka pobytu
|2 weeks
|Příjezd po
|Check-in before
|Odjezd před
|Stornovací podmínky
|Středně přísné
très très bon accueil, studio charmant, près de tout à pieds..
Paula et Sergio donnent de très bonnes adresses et sont très serviables, un vrai bonheur..et la ville est magnifique.
Very lovely and helpful hosts! The House is modern and very tasteful, beautiful garden. Great location. I would come back any time!
The communication with Paula beforehand was very nice, helpful and prompt. The beautiful house is perfectly located in a quiet neighbourhood, within walking distance to many of the things you would want to do and see in Porto. It is also tidy, clean and well equipped. The bed is comfortable.
Sergio provided an awesome map with plenty of useful tips of things to do, see and taste while in Porto, and even suggested different routes to explore the city.
I highly recommend them and would stay with them again next time I'm in Porto!
we live for a few days in Paulas room. It was clean, nice and near to the center of Porto. Paula and Sergio are very friendly. They give us everything we needed. Especially a selfmade map of Porto with many things to see or routes to walk.
If we come back to Porto we will stay there again.
Thank you! I canl recommend the stay at Paulas rooms.
Best Regards
Our stay at Paula's was wonderful! She has a really nice and comfy home, where it's easy to connect with other travellers or just relax in the garden. It's a great location to explore the city and even catch a train to Granja Beach, Espinho, Aveiro or one of the other places she will recommend you to visit. Paula and her husband Sergio were very kind and helpful. If you have any questions, just ask them and they will explain everything to you. We will definitely stay there again when we'll come back to Porto. Thanx a lot! *Felicitas and Johannes*
Hi Paula,
I hope you are well.
I´m also sorry, that I coud´nt say goodbye to you personaly. I felt very well in your house. Thank you for your very friendly service and wonderful stay in your house. It´s my oasis in Porto. and I told it already to my friends. I´ll do the same to wimdu.
I wish you and your husband a good time.
Best wishes
Porto is a beauty of many faces we visited for 2 days.
I think it was the best choice to rent the accommodation of Paula and her husband Sergio. Both of them are excellent. They provided us with different routes through the map to explore the city and places for breakfast and dinner. They are a great couple and very nice hosts!
The room is clean and comfortable and simply tasty. It has also a chill out area in the wintergarden or the garden. The kitchen and the bath room have everything you need for a shorter or longer stay. A big plus is, that the accommodation is well placed in the center of porto. From the house to Mercado do Balhao it is a walk of 5 minutes (there you can get the best pasteis de nata)!!! By the way - for an excellent and cheap breakfast go to the Café Andaluza. It is on the way from the house to Bolhao.
We sadly missed the dog but maybe we can see him the next time! If we ever visit Porto again - and we will - we will definetly rent a room from Paula and Sergio again!! :)
Paula and her husband are charming and helpful hosts who provide a lot oft inside information about Porto, e.g. about cheap restaurants and worthwhile walks around town.
The house is beautifully renovated, everything is new and absolutely clean and the room looked even better than in the pictures.
All main sights are within walking distance.
A nice, clean place with kind and helpfull hosts. They are interested and gave us much information about Porto and its surrounding. Good beds too.
Conclusion: A very good place to stay!!
Paula and her husband Sergio made me feel at home. Upon arrival they provided me with a map with different routes to explore the city and places for lunch and dinner which proved to be a success. The room is very cozy and the house is very nice, clean, spacy and tasty, only 10-15 minutes walk from the main attractions and 10 minutes walk from Metro Bolhao or Trinidade. If you are going to drivewith car you'll have no problem to park next to the house. I love Porto anyway and I'll come definitely come back without hesitation to the home of Paula and Sergio. Definitely 100% recommended! Paula and Serge are best hosts ever!!
Greetz Georg from NL
- Ověřenou kvalitu ubytování
- Prověření každého hostitele
- Bezpečné platby prostřednictvím SSL šifrování


text:
|"Rich Gelber,K2WR" <firstname.lastname@example.com>,Contest Reflector <firstname.lastname@example.com>
|Re: [CQ-Contest] 10 Questions
|Dennis McAlpine <firstname.lastname@example.com>
|Dennis McAlpine <firstname.lastname@example.com>
|Fri, 14 Dec 2007 14:19:37 -0500 (GMT-05:00)
-----Original Message----- >From: "Rich Gelber, K2WR" <email@example.com> >Sent: Dec 13, 2007 5:44 PM >To: Contest Reflector <firstname.lastname@example.com> >Subject: [CQ-Contest] 10 Questions > >1. I'm confused about sunspots and packet spots. What is the difference? You better find out before you put a packet of sun in your iced tea. >2. Which ones have an 11-year cycle? Sun spots work in 28 day cycles, I'm told. On the other hand, packet spots never die; they are always out there someplace. That is, unless it is for a new country and then its life time is half the time necessary for you to read the spot. >3. Why is it cheating if you use packet spots, but not if you use sunspots? It's only cheating if you don't tell someone you are using packet spots. It is understood (by someone) that everyone uses sunspots so there is no need to tell anyone you are using them...unless you don't and then that is cheating. >4. Do packet spots represent a slightly cooler area on the surface of >the ionosphere? Not necessarily. Some times packet spots are very hot, particularly if they are for a double mult. It is all in the eye of the beholder. >5. Is it possible to access sunspots via Telnet as well as radio? Yes, but don't look directly at them or you may damage your eyes. >6. If I notice a packet spot with the opposite polarity to all the spots >during the previous 11 years, what is the significance? You may have to wait only 28 days for it to come around again. >7. Can K1TTT determine the origin of sunspots? Yes, unless it is cloudy out. >8. For that matter, do sunspots originate from any particular IP address? Yes, they come from the center of the Galaxy. That is why we are always Scouting for them like a Globe King. >9. Did AK1A also invent sunspots? No, that was "IKEA." >10. What do I do if I have packet spots, sunspots, a dog named Spot, and >also a pet leopard? > Pray that there are a lot of sunspots because they may never change their spots. >Rich Sri, Rich, I cudn't resist. Dennis, K2SX > > >_______________________________________________ >CQ-Contest mailing list >firstname.lastname@example.com >http://lists.contesting.com/mailman/listinfo/cq-contest _______________________________________________ CQ-Contest mailing list firstname.lastname@example.com http://lists.contesting.com/mailman/listinfo/cq-contest
|<Prev in Thread]
|Current Thread
|[Next in Thread>
|Previous by Date:
|Re: [CQ-Contest] Public Logs, Zack Widup
|Next by Date:
|Re: [CQ-Contest] Recording your CQ WW CW contest, Barry
|Previous by Thread:
|Re: [CQ-Contest] 10 Questions, Bill Turner
|Next by Thread:
|[CQ-Contest] 3B7C Equipment Stolen - PLEASE FORWARD, Dennis Vernacchia
|[Date] [Thread] [Top] [All Lists]


text:
This article introduces you to IBM Operational Decision Manager V8 on IBM PureApplication System. In it, you'll learn how to use graphical wizards to deploy ODM patterns and create different kinds of environments on PureApplication System. Once deployed, you can create the instances you want in a matter of hours. Then developers can access and use the ODM environment as usual, including using related tools like the Rule Execution Server console, Decision Center, and the Event Administration console. You can even integrate with IBM Business Process Manager (BPM) in the cloud.
The article covers how to:
- Deploy the ODM V8 cloud pattern
- Create different types of ODM topologies
- Work with ODM tools in the cloud
Note: As of this writing, IBM PureApplication System supports IBM Operational Decision Manager V8 only on 64-bit Red Hat Linux®.
PureApplication System basics
The following is provided for the benefit for those who have not read the related article Deploying a BPM pattern on IBM PureApplication System.
IBM PureApplication System provides a way to virtualize, dispense, optimize and monitor software applications in the cloud. PureApplication System ships as an integrated system, preloaded with virtual images and patterns that can be used as-is or as a template for your own custom virtual images and patterns. In the realm of Platform as a Service(PaaS), PureApplication System also takes over the responsibility of placement and management of your middleware environments such as WebSphere® Application Server or IBM Business Process Manager (IBM BPM) in the cloud.
In this article, you'll learn how to load the IBM ODM hypervisor image into PureApplication System, commonly referred to as the rack, and work with the pre-built patterns.
A pattern in this context is a logical description of both the physical and virtual assets that comprise a particular solution. PureApplication System has both virtual application patterns and virtual system patterns, commonly referred to as vApp and vSys patterns respectively.
- VSys patterns provide the most flexibility and customization options of the two types. A vSys pattern consists of an operating system and, potentially, additional IBM software solutions, such as WebSphere Application Server or IBM ODM.
- VApp patterns are highly optimized and are constructed solely for the purpose of supporting a singular workload. The features and functions of the integrated software are limited to only those that are required. This pattern requires the least amount of customization during deployment and it provides the most direct method for obtaining a rapid return on investment
Refer to the developerWorks article Manage the topology with virtual system patterns for more information on vSys and vApp patterns. For a description of the different types of patterns supported by PureApplication System and how to decide which pattern to use refer to the developerWorks article Preparing for IBM PureApplication System, Part 2: Is your application ready to become virtual?.
Currently the only type of pattern supported by IBM ODM is the virtual system pattern, so we'll focus on that pattern.
PureApplication System has a single graphical user interface containing two consoles: the System Console and Workload Console, as shown in Figure 1. The system administrators will typically use the System Console to configure cloud groups and IP groups and other system related activities. Administrators and other users will mostly use the Workload Console to work with patterns.
Figure 1. PureApplication System Workload Console
You can check the PureApplication system catalog in the Workload Console to see if the rack is pre-loaded with the ODM image, by selecting Workload Console => Catalog => Virtual Images. If you don't find the ODM image, it's quite simple to install it. You will need access to the corresponding OVA (Open Virtual Application) image file. After it is installed, you can use the patterns that are available in the image. One of the major benefits of patterns is that you can create your own patterns using a supplied pattern as a template, or even create a brand new pattern from scratch.
Following are the high-level steps to install a cloud image:
- In the PureApplication System console, go to the Welcome tab and select Download command line tool.
- After downloading the tool, unzip the executable to a folder, preferably C:\IBM\Deployer.
- Add the deployer path to the system path environment variable.
Install the executable on the system where you ahve the image file using the command line interface (CLI). Figure 2 shows the ODM Pattern folder. Notice that there are two CLI folders: deployer.cli and pure.cli, as well as installer commands for Windows and Unix operating systems. The installer command has a platform type (
-t) option that allows you to specify either the PureApplication System or IBM Workload Deployer (IWD). The default setting for platform type is PureApplication System.
For example, to install the ODM image on IBM Workload Deployer, the command syntax would be:
installer –h <ipas-host> –u <user> –p <password> -t IWD
Note: The ODM image file does not require you to download the CLI tool. It provides a installer command which installs the image on the PureApplication System rack. Even if the ODM-provided tool is out of date, the installer downloads the latest version of the CLI tool before actually installing the image.
Figure 2. ODM pattern folder
In Figure 2, note the use of IP address instead of the fully-qualified host name. Often, IP addresses seem to work better when using the installer command.
The ODM image takes some time to upload. When done, you should see the success messages shown in Figure 3.
Figure 3. Successful completion of the installation command
- After the virtual image is uploaded, make sure it shows up in the
cloud catalog. From the Workload Console, select Catalog =>
Virtual Images You should see an entry for IBM WebSphere
Operational Decision Management 22.214.171.124 RHEL 6 x64, as shown in Figure
Figure 4. ODM virtual image listed in PureApplication System image catalog
- When the pattern is first deployed, there is a little red x next to the name of the image in the left pane. This indicates that the image is not activated. You need to accept the license to activate the image. To do this, you would need to highlight the image and click accept on the canvas. However, in Figure 3, the license has already been accepted, hence you see a green check mark next to the ODM pattern.
Overview of the ODM patterns
Once all licenses are accepted and activated in the virtual image, you're ready to deploy the IBM ODM pattern. First, let's take a look at the available patterns.
The ODM hypervisor image actually contains two patterns: ODM Clustered Decision Server Pattern 184.108.40.206 and ODM Clustered Pattern 188.8.131.52. These patterns contain the ODM database, custom nodes, deployment manager and web server.
Table 1 shows the ODM virtual image contents.
Table 1. IBM ODM 188.8.131.52 RHEL 6 x64 (VMWare) image contents
|Includes patterns
|Contains parts
|ODM Clustered Pattern 22.214.171.124
|ODM Clustered Decision Server Pattern 220.127.116.11
In the PureApplication System Workload Console, under Patterns, choose Virtual Systems. You will see the two patterns that were listed in Table 1 with version suffixes: ODM Clustered Decision Server Pattern and ODM Clustered Pattern. Figure 5 shows the two virtual system patterns.
Figure 5. ODM virtual system patterns
If you highlight the ODM Clustered Pattern, the details of the pattern are displayed in the canvas. Note that the value of the field In the cloud now is none. This is because we have not yet deployed the pattern. The topology of the patterns is shown in the main canvas. Figure 6 shows the ODM Clustered Pattern topology. If you hover over any of those images the details about that software component are displayed.
Figure 6. ODM Clustered Pattern topology in Pure Application System
Note: The number in the top left of some of the boxes is the spinner. You can increase (or decrease) those components to achieve scaling.
As described earlier, there are two virtual system patterns in the ODM image:
- The ODM Clustered Pattern contains two Decision Center nodes, two Decision Server nodes, a Rule Execution Server and a database. These are fully-clustered production-ready topologies complete with Deployment Manager and fronted by a web server. The database is DB2® and the web server is IBM HTTP Server.
- The ODM Decision Server Pattern, shown in Figure 7, is similar, but without the Decision Center, and serves as the runtime environment. This is also a clustered pattern, which contains remote messaging and remote support environments spread over multiple virtual machines. It is typically used to run business rules applications in either a test or a production environment.
Figure 7. ODM Clustered Decision Server Pattern topology in Pure Application System
Deploying the ODM pattern
We're now ready to deploy the ODM pattern. In this case, we'll deploy the Clustered Decision Server pattern. To do this, highlight the ODM Clustered Decision Server Pattern 220.127.116.11 and from the menu at the top of the canvas, choose Deploy.
You'll need to provide a unique virtual system name, choose the environment or cloud group that includes the IP version and profile, and then configure the various components or parts as they are called. Figure 8 shows the unique virtual system name and the five virtual parts in the ODM Clustered Decision Server that need to be configured.
Figure 8. Virtual parts in ODM Decision Server pattern
When naming the virtual system, choose a name that makes it easy to identify the pattern and the environment. When choosing the environment, you have the option of selecting the IP version and the cloud group. In most cases, deployment is always scheduled as immediate unless there is another deployment already going on.
Finally, you need to configure the virtual parts. Table 2 shows the various parts related to the patterns.
Table 2. Virtual parts in ODM patterns
|Virtual parts
|ODM Clustered Pattern
|ODM Clustered Decision Server Pattern
|ODM database
|IBM HTTP server for ODM
|Decision Center custom node
|Decision Server custom node
|Rule Execution Server custom node
|ODM deployment manager
Each part has certain common properties that need to be configured, such as virtual CPUs and memory size. For starters, we recommend going with the default values. If necessary, you can increase these later.
Figure 9 shows an example of the properties and the values that were entered for the Decision Server node part. You will have similar properties for DB2, IBM HTTP Server, Rule Execution Server, Deployment Manager and, depending on the pattern, Decision Center.
Figure 9. Properties of Decision Server Node part in ODM pattern
In the ODM deployment manager properties, you can specify whether it is part of a production environment or not. That choice only affects internal Tivoli monitoring. After deploying the instance, in the Workload Console, under Instances =>Virtual System Instances, you can highlight the instance and see the details. For example, you'll see that the fully deployed ODM Decision Server Pattern uses six virtual machines (VMs), as shown in Table 3.
Table 3. Number of VMs in ODM patterns
|DS Custom Node
|RES Custom Node
|DC Custom Node
|Decision Server Pattern
|Clustered Pattern
Note: It's useful to know the number of VMs when architecting a deployment topology.
The total number of VMs is highlighted in the screenshot in Figure 10. Among other things it shows the current status. The arrow in a green box indicates a successful deployment. If there was a problem during deployment a red circle would be displayed along with an error message. You can click on the History option to see the entire deployment history. System administrators can use this feature to determine how much time it took to deploy and what resources are being consumed.
Figure 10. Details of the deployed and started instance
Working with the ODM pattern instance
Now that the ODM pattern instance is deployed and active, it's business as usual. You can bring up and use any of the consoles you are familiar with, including the Rule Execution Server console and the Event Administration console.
The following sections outline the ways to access these applications. We recommend you bookmark all the URLs. Remember you can either use IP addresses or the fully-qualified host names. You may have to add the fully-qualified host names to your local hosts file depending on how your PureApplication System rack is configured.
The consoles
The link to the WebSphere Application Server administrative console can be
found in the deployment manager VM. If you highlight the ODM Pattern
instance (Workload Console =>Instances =>Virtual
Systems) and look at the details, you'll find a VM entitled
<Cloud_Group_Name>-ODM_DMGR-<Instance Name>
Click the plus (+) sign in the canvas to expand the details page and scroll down. In the Consoles section, you'll see the link to the WebSphere administrative console next to VNC labeled as WebSphere.
Bring up the WebSphere administrative console, also known as the Integrated Systems Console, and check out all the software components that were configured: the deployment environment, WebSphere Application Server clusters, application servers, nodes, service integration buses, messaging engines, and the data sources.
Tip: In the details of the VM, the fully qualified host name and IP address are listed in the Network interface field. Make a note of these; you can get to the consoles directly using these rather than having to bring up the details page every time.
You can find the Rule Execution Server console in the VM named
<Cloud_Group>-RES_Console-<Instance Name>. The
Decision Center can be found in the VM entitled
Name>, as shown
in Figure 11.
Figure 11. Rule Execution Server console
When you log into the Rule Execution Server, use the PureApplication System defined user, virtuser. In a production environment, the pattern would be integrated with a security server, like Tivoli Directory Server, where the required users would be defined.
Changing the ODM pattern
The ODM system pattern comes pre-configured and tuned, and only exposed parameters can be modified. If you want to customize the pattern, you have two options:
- Create your own new pattern and pick the ODM parts.
- Clone the default ODM pattern and change things like the node cardinality.
The ODM pattern supports horizontal scaling by cloning the Decision Center or Decision Server custom nodes. The custom nodes are listed at the bottom of Figure 4. You can use the Manage/Clone action from the already created node. With cloning you get another node and cluster members. Reduction of nodes is possible as well.
The ODM Pattern uses IBM DB2 as the underlying repository. If a deployment scenario calls for using Oracle database, you would have to configure an Oracle data source and leverage it in WebSphere Application Server and in ODM artifacts, presumably in an on-premise use case.
In this article, you randomly chose to deploy the ODM Clustered Decision Server Pattern. In reality, you'll have to decide which ODM pattern to deploy based on the type of environment (development, test, or production) you want to set up.
If there is one thing that stands out with the ODM Advanced Pattern in the cloud, it is the deployment time. The time to configure and deploy a fully-clustered environment has been reduced to a matter of hours. What is phenomenal is the fact that you can delete an instance and create a new one at any time or create multiple instances in a few hours.
The author would like to thank Rajesh Rao and Pierre Berlandier for their technical review of this article.
- Deploying a BPM pattern on IBM PureApplication System (developerWorks 2012)
- Managing administrative access in IBM PureApplication System (developerWorks article series)
- Preparing for IBM PureApplication System, developerWorks article series
- IBM ODM V8 InfoCenter
- IBM PureApplication System V1 Information Center
- IBM BPM V8 InfoCenter
- developerWorks BPM zone: Get the latest technical resources on IBM BPM solutions, including downloads, demos, articles, tutorials, events, webcasts, and more.
- IBM BPM Journal: Get the latest articles and columns on BPM solutions in this quarterly journal, also available in both Kindle and PDF versions.
Dig deeper into Business process management on developerWorks
developerWorks Premium
Exclusive tools to build your next great app. Learn more.
dW Answers
Ask a technical question
Explore more technical topics
Tutorials & training to grow your development skills


text:
GRAND RAPIDS, MI – The West Michigan Labor Fest is returning to Ah-Nab-Awen Park (220 Front Ave NW) for its fifth year and offers a fun-filled day of activities for families looking to come downtown to wrap up their three-day weekend.
The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday and offers live music, kid's activities, a classic car and motorcycle show, and numerous food and beer tents. Admission is free.
The event will also include free admission to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. This year, the museum is celebrating President Ford's 100th birthday.
Labor Fest began in 2009,replacing the previous decades of Labor Day parades. Instead, the Labor Day committee offered a free festival downtown to entertain those enjoying the holiday from work.
Ah-Nab-Awen Park was chosen as an ideal location to hold the festival, as it is where the Spirit of Solidarity Monument is located. The Roberto Chenlo sculpture of three bronze statues depicts the events and emotions surrounding the 1911 Furniture Workers Strike.
Co-chair of the Labor Committee Tracey Roerig said, "On average we've had between three and four thousand people attend the event, depending on the weather. We're hoping for a great crowd this year to take the opportunity to come downtown for a free fun-filled day."
This year's live entertainment includes music from Mick Lane, Mustang Band, The Jimmie Stagger Band, Rochelle and the Spoilers, Krystal Kleer, and Cover Story. According to Roerig, each band will play 45-minute sets.
Kid's activities include penny throwing contests, a mini ferris wheel, bounce house, "berry-go-round", face painting, a fire safety demonstration, and ice cream. The activities, including the ice cream, are free except for the face painters,who are asking for donations to cover costs.
Local arts and crafts exhibits will offer caricatures by 2010 ArtPrize winner Chris LaPorte, mixed media jewelry by Ava Del Designs, Alphabet Photography, pottery, fiber art, and the chance to make your own Petoskey necklace pendant with Two Stoner Guys.
Food vendors include Twisted Rooster, Coney Girl, DC Express, Mallie's Concessions, Dallas Deli BBQ, and The Chez Olga, while the beer tent will have beer from Founders, Bells, Leinenkugel, and Miller.
Food vendors will work on a cash basis. Tickets can be purchased to buy beer.
More information and photo galleries from previous Labor Fest's can be found at www.westmichiganlaborfest.com.
Todd Chance is the West Michigan Entertainment Concierge for MLive/Grand Rapids Press. Email him at firstname.lastname@example.com or follow him on Facebook , Twitter, Google Plus


text:
It's the most wonderful time of the year for safety mom! It's Child Passenger Safety Week! I have a spring in my step! This year, I have a great checklist to share with you from Safe Kids USA. It's the … Continue reading
- Separator
- Separator
- Separator
- Jessica Saunders
Author: Jessica Saunders
The amazing world of child passenger safety technicians
Earlier this summer I had the pleasure of taking 15 new child passenger safety technicians through the 32-hour Child Passenger Safety Certification. This was an amazing group of people who are now going to be working in their communities to … Continue reading
I Called This One
I remember as a pre-teen in the 80's and early 90's there were these really cool things called "slap bracelets." I know I had quite the collection. They were made of metal covered with fabric. They came straight but then … Continue reading
Stepping up for safety
We all know that I'm a bit of a safety dork and probably notice more about safety than most. However, I'm beginning to see how some of this safety "dorkdum" is beginning to change things. Lately I've been happy to … Continue reading