text:
BALTIMORE — The Yankees fell to seven games behind the Orioles in the American League East and three games behind the Mariners for the second Wild Card spot after Monday's brutal loss to Baltimore.
We know. It's hard to keep watching a team that's struggling with so little time left.
But there are still reasons to stay intrigued by the 2014 Yankees as their season heads into its final weeks.
Many things that happen will have consequences for 2015 and beyond. And you might even see something you'll never see again — cough, the captain, cough, cough.
Here are eight reasons to keep watching the fading Yankees. Mobile app users: Click each photo for information.


text:
Digital Challenge Helps Young People Solve Social Challenges in BrazilCorporate Social Responsibility
What better place to incorporate a Hackathon than at World Skills, an event already bursting with energy andRead More
Empowering Global Problem Solvers at Cisco Live US 2015Corporate Social Responsibility
Right now, nearly 16 billion people, processes, data, and things are connected to the Internet. By the time thisRead More
Two Ways Broadband Internet Is Improving Health Care and EducationThe Platform
This blog was originally published on the Huffington Post ImpactX. In many parts of the world, being able toRead More
Cisco IT Managers Break Record for Largest Group Volunteering EventCorporate Social Responsibility
Yesterday, 500 Cisco employees assembled kits for two of our nonprofit partners, making the World Wide IT Manager's OffsiteRead More
Two CSR Nonprofit Partners Win Tech Innovation AwardsCorporate Social Responsibility
Two of Cisco's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) nonprofit grantees, Gooru and Worldreader, have wonRead More
Student Entrepreneurs Develop Smart Device for the Visually ImpairedCorporate Social Responsibility
The city of Nancy was once the Art Nouveau capital of France. Today it is a smart city, incorporatingRead More

subset: commoncrawl


text:
I wanted to title this "Fair & Balanced" but I did not want to incur the wrath of a major network who might take offense to me borrowing that phrase.
But in reporting the letter to the editor by Damone Jones (at least we assume that's who wrote the letter since his name is on it) I want to be fair and--dare I say--balanced in the presentation by bringing note of the rebuttal.
Apparently, Randy Conley is not the "half wit geoscience major" who wrote the initial letter, to which Jones responded.
That's right, folks. I am not the coward that wrote that letter ("PSU athletes receive preferential treatment," March 15) and then signed a different name.
But he further proves he is not a coward by confronting Jones head on:
Finally, I know that Jones was ill informed about the origin of the letter, but how dare you attack my major and credibility by calling me a "half-wit geoscience major?" You have no idea what the major requires and would no doubt hardly last a semester. I'm certain a geoscientist would have no troubles with classes in your major of "recreation and park management," which you so conveniently left out of your rebuttal.
Game. Set. Match.
The next thing you know we'll have "Jay Paterno" and "Sue Paterno" writing into the messageboards. And, if it's on the Internet, it must be true. I also have some swampland for sale, if you are interested.
Your less than fair and definitely unbalanced blogger, signing off.


text:
Mother and Child. Study for the Painting 'Master Baby' About 1886
Not on display
- Scottish Art
Master Baby' became one of Orchardson's most popular and well known paintings. Writing about the life of her father, his daughter Hilda told how Orchardson was struck by the grace of his wife's figure as she entertained their young son Gordon with a fan. He began to sketch the figures from life, but according to Hilda 'the baby would only play with the fan for five or ten minutes at a time, and then howled, so a Japanese doll was used as a lay figure.' Orchardson also made separate studies of the wicker sofa and a drawing of the baby's head. This drawing is an excellent example of his preparatory work, and demonstrates his subtle drawing style. He paid careful attention to the outline of his subject, and once explained to a student that this led 'to a true understanding of the form.'


text:
Home | Advertise | About | Contact
Sign In
Reader Comments (0)
By Greg Knight
March 28, 2013 | Vol. 39, No. 13
Verizon is on its way to Southeast Alaska – just not for the foreseeable future in Wrangell or Petersburg.
According to company spokesman Scott Charlston, the move to bring cell and data service to rural Alaska is in its first phase and that net...
For access to this article please sign in or subscribe.
Petersburg Pilot | P.O. Box 930, Petersburg, AK 99833
Ph: (907) 772-9393 | email@example.com | www.petersburgpilot.com Content and information copyright 2015 Pilot Publishing, Inc.
Powered by ROAR Online Publication Software
© Copyright 2015 Lions Light Corp.
— Software for newspapers & magazines


text:
Comfortable apart pool & garden
מספר אנשים מקסימלי4
חדרי שינה1
גודל45 מטר רבוע
Floor No.0
- מטבח
- טלויזיה
- בריכה
- מגבות
- אינטרנט/ אינטרנט אלחוטי
- מתאים גם למשפחות/ ילדים
- חניה זמינה
- גישה לנכים
|Av. Tirajana, 35100 Maspalomas, ספרד
|סוג נכס
|פרטי הזיהוי של מקום הלינה
|Acceptance rate
|Response time
|A few hours
|Calendar updated
|4 days ago
Ground floor, interior facing the garden, so you don't have to worry about the noisy street.
> Two separate beds and a big closet in a separate bedroom.
> Sofa-bed in the living room.
> American kitchen, well equipped with 2 ceramic hobs, microwave, fridge, toaster, coffee machine, kettle, etc.
> Full bathroom with shower and tube.
> Hairdryer
> FREE WiFi 300mb Optic Fiber
> International TV channels
Can sleep four adults. Recommended for three. Optimum for two.
At the outdoor pool available the whole year you'll find sun beds and parasols. And kids can use the small pool exclusively for them. Tennis court is also available (ask at Reception).
Located on the main street. Right downstairs there are very good restaurants and bars (local and german) and a supermarket right next door. The neighbourhood offers plenty of bars to have a couple of beers, different kind of restaurants, stores, pharmacies and supermarkets.
The closest mall is Cita Shopping Center. Yumbo Centrum Shopping is 10 minutes walking.
10 minutes walking to Paseo Costa Canaria. 20 minutes walking to the beach, Anexo II Shopping center. Walking 200 mts on the same street you'll find the Maspalomas dunes.
The bus stop is right at the corner, either if you're coming or going to the airport or to go to other beaches around.
If you come by car, you can park it easily around the complex.
+ We expect people behave like they were at their own house.
+ Smoke inside the appartment is not permited.
+ And, saddly, pets are not allowed.
|Weekly rate for up to 3 guests
|Monthly rate for up to 3 guests
|מחיר ליותר מ-3 אורחים
|Check-in before
|עזיבה לפני
|מדיניות ביטולים
We have had a really nice time at Gran canaria. The Apartment Aloe has been super clean and tidy, we didnt miss a thing. The kitchen had everything we needed to cook our meals (: and It has been really quiet around the House (: Nadia was extremly helpful and kind, not only when we met her to get the keys and instructions on how to get to the Apartment, even before she always made sure that we have all the Information we woud need for our stay. We would have loved to stay longer. (: its been amazing (:
We had a lovely stay in Gran Canaria, at the Aloe apartment on San bartolome De Tirajana in Playa del Ingles in Gran Canaria. The apartment was tidy and clean, when we got there=) Our host Nadia was extremely kind, generous and helpful. She was there at the arranged time to meet us at the airport, and gave us all the directions we would need, along with the keys. We can definatly recommend her service to others.
So we were back again, and everything was just
as good as last time. Very satisfied so
we have booked a third time February 2015.
A big thank you to a very nice stay and
a very nice host.
Me and my friend Tommy rented two apartments of Nadia.
We are very satisfied, very nice apartments, good location, plenty of
shops in the immediate vicinity, all things are in walking distance.
Nadia is a very nice and helpful host and it was a
pleasure to meet her. Everything worked as contracted.
I would recommend both Nadia and her apartments.
Perfect!! We look forward to coming back.
Bello vicino al mare,la sera poco casino,pulito e tranquillo. Tornerò sicuramente!!!
Nadia e' davvero disponibile e gentile!!!
Fui con un amigo y estuvimos 4 noches en el apartamento. La estancia fue muy agradable. Cuenta con lo necesario al lado del edificio: supermercado, restaurante, cafetería, prensa, alquiler de coches. Ello facilita enormemente todo y se ahorra mucho tiempo. La situación si te gusta la playa al lado de las dunas es excelente. También está al lado de un centro comercial. Solo citaré algo que podría mejorarse muy fácilmente: la iluminación por la noche. Un punto en el apartamento con buena luz. Es recomendable para unos días de playa sin mayor complicación. Nadia es profesional y te ayudará en lo que necesites-
We loved staying in Casa Langostero. Being out of the way from the touristy places and the closeness to the sea was fantastic. The kitchen unit was simple but it worked ok.
Hi Nadia,
Thanks again for a great stay in your appartement!
Everything is as promised. Your welcome at the airport was great and very kind!
So were the cold beers in the fridge. Thank you :-)
We can think of a lot of great things to say about the appartement: It's perfectly situated in the heart of Playa del Ingles. Shops, restaurants, bars, beach, dunes, supermarket, bakery, etc...all reachable on foot within minutes. A great swimmingpool, a place to hang your clothes to dry. And in the vicinity enough space to park your car for free (just around the corner). Everything inside the appartement works just fine!! There was only one slight surprise: the hot water for showering runs out pretty fast... But off course that all depends on how fast/slow you are used to taking a shower. :-) All in all we had a great time and we are glad that we chose your appartement for our stay on Gran Canaria. We will be back and we will definately contact you as soon as we know when!!
Thanks again and 'till next time!!! Katia and Mischa
Absolutley lovely appartment only a stones throw from the beach. Clean and well presented for a great stay. Very helpful hostess we 100% recommend.
We spent wonderful holidays in casa Salinero. Nadja is a nice hostess.The house is very easy -equipped but
the location is very nice, we never had a house so near by the sea. I like feeding the lizards and sitting near the sea
at the sound of the mills we had to get used to, after a few days it was ok.
I think for all poeple who don`t need luxury is the house perfect
- הבטחת איכות מקומות הלינה
- כל מארח מאושר טלפונית
- תשלום מאובטח


text:
The organizers of an annual Mardi Gras costume sale say New Orleans police shut down their event at a Frenchmen Street bar Sunday afternoon.
A police officer in plainclothes approached the Blue Nile bar about 2 p.m. and nixed the bazaar, Cree McCree said. She said the sale apparently was shut down because the bar lacked a license to sell clothes.
A police spokesman said the NOPD had not yet generated a report on the incident, but confirmed there was a summons issued at the bar's address around 2 p.m.
"They were driving around looking for suspicious activity, and they decided we qualified," McCree said of the police.
Blue Nile bar owner Jesse Paige was issued a summons, and will have to appear in court tomorrow, McCree said.
The event, known as the NOLA Designer Costume Bazaar, features about 20 local designers selling colorful handmade masks, hats and other costume pieces. Earlier today, shoppers modeled sequined shorts and tried on hats depicting various woodland creatures.
The sale is in its 20th year, and migrated across the street to the Blue Nile five years ago after the adjacent Cafe Brasil closed, McCree said.
McCree planned to keep the sale, which started at noon, open until 5 p.m. She said after the shutdown, people showed up wondering what happened to the event.
"It was a real drag, because it was all going so beautifully," she said.


text:
... last night Jenny and I went out for a bit of a boogie and today we're both pretty much broken...
... so today an easy, but exceptionally tasty meal was called for and I could think of nothing better than fish pie. We've slightly cheated with the mash potato topping... courtesy of Jenny's inspiration, via Delia and some frozen Aunt Bessie's mash... but all the other ingredients were freshly prepared... I mean for goodness sake, who can be bothered with mashing potatoes..? and like I say, we are broken!
recipe for a very large pie for 3 broken people
300g salmon
300g smoked haddock
300g black bream (although you could use any other plain white fish... we just found a good deal)
280g organic, raw tiger prawns
3 medium leeks
1 small fennel
a handful of frozen peas
1 tablespoon capers
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons English mustard
a glass of white wine
1 pint milk
1/2 pint Marigold Bouillon
2 tablespoons plain flour
some strong cheddar - grated
3 bay leaves
a handful of chopped chives
a handful of chopped parsley
s and p
- place all the fish, except for the prawns, into an oven-proof dish, add the bay leaves, cover with the milk and bake in a hot oven for 6-10 minutes - the fish should be just undercooked and you'll have wonderful stock for your sauce
- saute the leeks and fennel in butter until tender and then place in your pie dish
- once the fish is done, drain the milk (but keep it for the sauce) and place it into the pie dish with the leeks and fennel... add the un-cooked prawns, peas, the chopped capers, the chives and parsley
- poor the poaching milk into the made up veg-stock and add a glass of white wine. Slowly add this to the butter and flour paste, stirring all the time until you have a glossy, runny, sauce... at this stage it should be the consistency of single cream, but it will thicken
- you can turn the heat up now slightly but continue to stir and cook until it thickens to your desired consistency.. add the grated cheese and the mustards until it tastes how you want it to taste... we went slightly mustard-tastic because we need the punch to wake us up a bit!
- poor the sauce onto the fish pie and very gently mix it up... you want keep big chunks of fish
- place the frozen slabs of potato onto the top and bake in a hot oven for about 30 mins... don't forget to to fork the potato half way through cooking and grate some more cheese on top for extra cheesy crispy-ness.
totally perfect, intensely rich, easy peasy, fish pie loveliness... slightly less broken...
eat and of course, enjoy!


text:
You are currently browsing the tag archive for the 'trailer' tag.
Let's face it, the Dragonball: Evolution trailer is exactly what we thought it would look like when he saw the words "Dragonball" and "Hollywood" together. That darkish color scheme, that voiceover, that trying-hard-to-be-cool-and-relevant feeling, it's all there just as it was there in our minds. No one should be surprised. Disappointed yes, but not surprised.
When I first watched the trailer I wasn't paying full attention and there was a scene where a vehicle transforms. Originally I heard Goku say, "Boom," and I thought, "Hey that's a pretty clever reference to those comical clouds of smoke that said "BOMB" in big block letters whenever anyone used a Capsule Corp. Capsule in the original material." Maybe there was an inkling of hope after all.
But no, he actually said, "Cool."
I'm still gonna go see the movie anyway.
And then hope that James Marsters manages to pull a good performance out of it, like Raul Julia as M. Bison.
Finally got around to watching the trailer for Xamdou. It's very short, so there's not too much to say. Check my previous post for information on how to view it.
The video focuses on a boy and his transformation into what I assume is the titular Xamdou. An object appears out of his forehead and causes him to transform into a white humanoid creature vaguely resembling the final form of the Nirvash in Eureka Seven.
And speaking of Eureka Seven, I got tired of people making FLCL references to it back when it first aired, so I'm sure I'll be enjoying the comments about the vague similarities between Xamdou emerging from his forehead as compared to Naota and Canti.
The music is electric guitar-heavy (as in, that's all there is to the music in the trailer), and from what little I can see of the environment, the world of Xamdou seems to resemble Eureka Seven in that parts of it are somewhat ravaged and there's some kind of significant military presence.
I think there's some hope that this might somehow relate to the Eureka Seven universe, based on just the look and feel of the show, but it's really anybody's guess and can probably just be chalked up to having the same team working on both shows.
…But man, Xamdou and Nirvash really do look similar.
Bounen no Xamdou has gotten a proper trailer at its official site
Unfortunately it can only be viewed in Internet Explorer, but it's a small price to pay for a delicious taste of what's to come from Bones and the Eureka Seven team.
I haven't had the chance to really watch it, but expect an opinion and some screen caps (for those of you not wanting to deal with the hassle of IE) soon.


text:
Begin Your Search
WineAccess Travel Log
Read stories from the world's greatest wine trails.
More About This Wine
Related Products
Additional Vintages
Other Wines from this Producer and Vintage
85 Points | Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine
90 Points | Stephen Tanzer's IWC - May/June 2009
($49-$55) Deep red. Expressive nose offers black fruits, espresso and musky dark chocolate lifted by an exotic floral component. Juicy, sweet and pliant, with a generosity of texture in the context of the vintage. Has the mid-palate flavor intensity to buffer its tannins and finishes with noteworthy persistence.
90 Points | Wine Spectator
Your Rating & Review
1 Member RatingAverage Member Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars
|5 stars
|4 stars
|3 stars
|2 stars
|1 stars


text:
CHARLOTTETOWN - A call of nature turned out to be a life saver for three boaters off Nova Scotia last weekend.
Ray Loxdale, 49, of St. Catherines, P.E.I., had just stopped his pleasure boat off Pugwash, N.S., on Sunday so he could relieve himself when he heard panicked cries for help.
Loxdale and his friend, Jason Smith, 20, of Shag Harbour, N.S., brought their boat alongside two people who had been floating in fear for more than four hours since their own boat was capsized by a large wave.
Darren Robinson, 22, and his girlfriend, Lacey Angevine, 20, both of Pugwash River, N.S., were hauled out of the water.
They told their rescuers that a third person - Robinson's cousin, also named Darrin Robinson - was trying to swim to shore. He was soon brought aboard as well.
Loxdale said the three persons would most likely have been left to fend for themselves had he not needed to take a bathroom break. He considers the call to nature divine intervention.
"I think I'm kind of humbled that God used us to answer those guys' prayers. And they were definitely praying a lot, I was told," he said Wednesday.
"They needed a lot of assistance. ... They were pretty fearful, and rightfully so.
"They were in shock. They were quite scared. The first signs of hypothermia was starting to set in."
Darrin Robinson, 24, of Pugwash River said he, his cousin and his cousin's girlfriend had been on the water for about 30 minutes heading to a fishing spot when a wave swamped their boat. The three were thrown in the water as the boat flipped upside down and began to sink.
All three were able to retrieve life-jackets from the water and put them on.
Angevine said she wouldn't have survived long without a life-jacket.
"It was really scary," she said. "I can't swim very well. I just thought I was going to die.
"It was just pure luck that he had to use the washroom then and there."
Three boaters rescued from Northumberland Strait after capsizing
CHARLOTTETOWN - A call of nature turned out to be a life saver for three boaters off Nova Scotia last weekend.
Organizations: Robinson's
Geographic location: Pugwash River, CHARLOTTETOWN, Nova Scotia Pugwash Shag HarbourTop of page


text:
The University of South Alabama 25th Annual OOzeball Tournament will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday, April 13, at the mud courts between the JagTran service station and the Grove. This year's theme is "Just Ooze It." The event is free and open to the public.
The mud volleyball tournament is the largest campus-involvement activity at USA. The teams consisting of more than 500 students, faculty, staff and alumni will play regulation volleyball in eight inches of mud. Oozeball is the annual fundraiser for the Southerners, USA's student ambassador group. A percentage of this year's proceeds will benefit USA Children's and Women's Hospital.
The Southerners assist with recruitment, fundraising and alumni functions. The members also serve as role models encouraging fellow students to become involved in the National Alumni Association after graduation.
For more information regarding the event and media interviews at the event, please contact Joel Ponce at (251) 656-8450 or firstname.lastname@example.com.


text:
We report on the integration of monodisperse semiconductor nanocrystal (NC) color converters onto gallium nitride ultraviolet micro-pixelated light-emitting diodes ('micro-LEDs'). Integration is achieved in a 'self-aligned' process by forming a nanocomposite of the respective NCs in a photocurable epoxy polymer. Blue, green, yellow and red NC/epoxy blend microstructures have been successfully integrated onto micro-pixelated LEDs by this technique and utilised for color conversion, resulting in a five color emission single chip. Optical output power density of up to about 166mW/cm2 is measured; spectral emission at 609nm gives an estimated optical-to-optical conversion as high as 18.2% at 30mA driving current.
© 2008 Optical Society of AmericaFull Article | PDF Article


text:
The Watchung Board of Education will meet tonight in public session.
Among the items on the evening's agenda are updates on the board's search to replace retiring Superintendent Dr. Mary Louise Malyska and on the search for a new school board member.
Other items on the agenda include approval of field trips, a roof alteration at Bayberry School, enrollment reports and updates on negotiations.
The Board of Education meets at 7:30 p.m. at Valley View School, One Dr. Parenty Way.


text:
What is enough? Can more be less? These are questions you may want to ask about new rules in the works for Great Lakes salmon anglers.
The DNR is proposing to raise salmon catch limits to five fish from three. It is also proposing to allow anglers to use three lines rather than two for any kind of fishing, anywhere.
Anglers are being asked to share their thoughts and concerns about the proposals, which, if adopted, would go into effect in 2009. Neither is expected to have a negative biological impact on the fishery.
A DNR analysis of the new catch limit shows that perhaps 20,000 more salmon would be caught, out of a total catch of 800,000 to 900,000 fish.
"The difference is a pittance," said Jim Dexter, the Lake Michigan basin fishery chief. "What this really is, is a social issue. What is enough fish for people?"
Dexter has a unique perspective on the topic, born of years working closely with Great Lakes anglers and charter captains. He knows anglers love to catch their "limit." When the limit is three they more often go home satisfied.
When it is five, that isn't always so. Those focused on "limit" catches can go home unfulfilled with four. Legal limits, he said, have a way of establishing angler expectations.
"We know a lot of anglers can't get three fish," Dexter said. "There are going to be a lot more that can't get five."
Great Lakes anglers can currently catch five fish total, but no more than three of any one species (other than pink salmon). That means three coho or Chinook salmon or steelhead or a mixture of five.
That policy started in 1989 after the Lake Michigan salmon fishery collapsed due to Bacterial Kidney Disease. Limiting the take to three conserved what was left.
That limit has grown on some in the fishing trade. I've heard charter captains say they like the rule. Three salmon sometimes means they can go home quicker. With rising gas prices, that means less out-of-pocket costs for the captain and the customers.
Other captains have expressed concerns about what they perceive as waste; clients who hold out for a limit of five (50-100 pounds), but start whining at the cleaning station about what they will do with "all that fish."
You don't have to be Einstein to recognize that fish matter changes shape only to the extent that there is freezer space. The rest goes to friends or into the trash.
Gas prices also impact recreational anglers, those who fish from the piers or troll offshore in their own boats. Anglers who drive to Lake Michigan from Pontiac, Ann Arbor, Flint or Jackson fish less frequently these days because of gas prices and economic conditions. If they do go, some want the option of taking a five salmon.
"Three is plenty for some while five is not enough for others," Dexter said. "There is no right or wrong here."
The decision to return to a five salmon limit is something that anglers have been asking for, according to Dexter. It was also recommended in a 1990 DNR report on trout and salmon management in Lake Michigan.
Dexter maintains that there is no biological reason not to do it. Natural mortality for coho and Chinook is much greater than fishing mortality.
"There are, say 10 million Chinook swimming out in Lake Michigan," Dexter said. "We harvest just under one million of them, 10 percent. We get 20 to 30 percent dying naturally.
"Taking fewer might give us a small percentage savings in forage fish not eaten, but what that means is unknown and no matter how many we take, it may not help."
Part two of the proposal, to allow anglers to use three rods anywhere, in part, comes from anglers, who have said, 'We can use two lines, why not three?"
It is a long lament, according to Dexter, backed up by the argument that legal limits still prevail. Anglers argue it should not matter whether they use two or four rods. Either way they are only allowed 35 perch, for example. The only difference is they may catch them quicker.
Michigan anglers have been restricted to two rods for almost 100 years," said Dexter. That changed in 2001 for anglers fishing the Great Lakes.
Those who troll for salmon were allowed three rods per licensed angler. Everyone else is still required to use two. The proposed change to three is expected to simplify otherwise complicated regulations.
Anglers on Lake Huron also troll for walleye. But they are allowed only to use two lines per angler. Law enforcement becomes a challenge under those circumstances.
"The only issue we see may be space issues at the piers," Dexter said. "People may take up more space with more rods. Hopefully, etiquette will drive the day."
More space, more rods, less time spent fishing. It is an axiom only Albert Einstein could love.
What do you think?
Will anglers be more or less satisfied with a five-salmon limit?
Write us and tell us your thoughts. We'll publish some of your comments. Send your comments by e-mail to email@example.com or by mail to Howard Meyerson at 155 Michigan Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49506


text:
The current struggles between religion and science in areas such as evolution and "intelligent design" are thrown into sharp relief in a new book on the great Italian astronomer Galileo and his trial by the Roman Inquisition.
Ex-nun urges Indian Catholic Church reform in tell-all book
A Roman Catholic nun who left her convent in India after 33 years of service has penned an unflattering picture of life within the cloistered walls in a book that may further embarrass the Church.
Do animals have moral codes? Well, up to a point…
"We believe that there isn't a moral gap between humans and other animals, and that saying things like 'the behavior patterns that wolves or chimpanzees display are merely building blocks for human morality' doesn't really get us anywhere. At some point, differences in degree aren't meaningful differences at all and each species is capable of 'the real thing.' Good biology leads to this conclusion. Morality is an evolved trait and 'they' (other animals) have it just like we have it."
A pope arrives bearing gifts
What kind of gift does a pope give when he visits the Holy Land? This morning, the Holy See Press Office distributed a few pictures of presents Pope Benedict has brought along. Take a look:
Did climate change stoke past religious persecution?
A thought-provoking new book on Christianity's "lost history" holds that one of the central causes of 14th century religious persecution may well have been climate change. You can read my interview with author Philip Jenkins about "The Lost History of Christianity: The Thousand-Year Golden Age of the Church in the Middle East, Africa and Asia — and How It Died" on the Reuters website here.


text:
"We have now sunk to a depth at which re-statement of the obvious is the first duty of intelligent men." Orwell
"Men are so simple of mind and so dominated by immediate needs that the deceitful man can easily find those ready to be deceived." Machiavelli
The fact that a believer is happier than a skeptic is no more to the point than the fact that a drunken man is happier than a sober one... credulity is a cheap and dangerous quality. - Shaw
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Granny Get Your Gun
Just the teensiest bit NSFW.
No comments:
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
Peter Kerry Powers is associate professor and chair of the English department at Messiah College in Grantham, Pennsylvania.
Riot and Remembrance: The Tulsa Race War and Its Legacy.By James S. Hirsch. HoughtonMifflin, 358 pp., $25.00.
Carry Me Home: Birmingham, Alabama--The Climatic Battle of the Civil Rights Revolution. By Diane McWhorter. Simon & Schuster, 706 pp., $35.00.
One Drop of Blood: The American Misadventure of Race by Scott L. Malcomson
The Century's work relies primarily on subscriptions and donations. Thank you for supporting nonprofit journalism.
Support us by buying books:


text:
DETROIT -- Dan Cloutier has had hip surgery twice in the past two years and was out of hockey last season.
But the veteran goaltender isn't prepared to retire before seeing if he still can play in the NHL. If he can't, he likely will pursue opportunities in Europe.For now, Cloutier is trying to maximize his tryout with the Detroit Red Wings. He is scheduled to play in one of the next two preseason games, Monday at the New York Rangers or Tuesday in Philadelphia.
"Physically, I feel pretty good, but missing over a year at my position, which I think is probably the toughest position in all of sports, it is hard to come back,'' said Cloutier, 33. "There's lots of things I need to work on, it doesn't come overnight.
"Every time I go out here, I pick up on some little things I remember. It's the tight-in stuff and reading the play that (requires) repetition that I haven't done for a long time. Those are the hard things to do. I have improved every day, but I'm still not close to where I want to be.''
Cloutier won more than 30 games in three consecutive seasons for the Vancouver Canucks (2001-02 to '03-04) but probably is best remembered by Red Wings fans for allowing Nicklas Lidstrom to score a pivotal goal on a shot from center ice during Game 3 of the 2002 first-round playoff series between the clubs.
Cloutier was besieged with injuries (concussion, knee, shoulder, hip) the next three seasons. He appeared in only nine games for the Los Angeles Kings in 2007-08. He spent last season helping his brother, Sylvain, coach the Corpus Christi IceRays of the Central Hockey League.
While skating near his Toronto home two months ago, he finally felt healthy enough to launch a comeback.
"I told my agent I'd be interested in going to Europe,'' Cloutier said. "We were working on that and we realized, before you move your family to Europe, it would be nice to see if you can get a tryout in the NHL.''
Cloutier said a few teams showed interest. He chose Detroit because it was close to home, not because he felt he had a better chance of landing a contract with the Red Wings.
Detroit is set with Jimmy Howard as Chris Osgood's backup. Daniel Larsson and Thomas McCollum will man the nets in Grand Rapids (AHL). Jordan Pearce will play in Toledo (ECHL).
"If you look at every NHL team, especially late in the summer, everybody's got their guys and their prospects, and I understand that,'' Cloutier said. "Detroit is full of prospects. Just from watching these guys, they got a good future in net.
"I'm trying to get back to where I was. I don't know how long that will take or what it will take, but I'm just happy to be out here practicing again.''
Red Wings general manager Ken Holland didn't rule out the possibility of offering Cloutier a two-way contract but said he would need to find a minor-league club for him.
"If it doesn't work out, there's a few teams in Europe waiting to see what my decision is going to be,'' Cloutier said. "We'll see what else is out there. I just want to make sure I can still go out and compete with these guys.''


text:
DeWitt, NY -- A state trooper had just pulled over a speeding motorist on Interstate 690 when another driver drifted onto the shoulder of the highway and struck the trooper's patrol car Monday morning, state police said.
Trooper Todd Madley was working a traffic safety detail to crack down on speeding and to enforce the Move Over Law when the accident happened on I-690 at the I-481 southbound on-ramp in DeWitt, troopers said in a news release.
Madley was sitting in a marked 2010 Ford Crown Victoria patrol car, writing a traffic ticket when his patrol car was side-swiped, state police said. Both Madley's patrol car and the vehicle he had stopped were on the shoulder, "well to the right of the fog line," the release said. The trooper's car also had its emergency lights activated.
Jeremiah T. Roebig, 34, of East Syracuse, told state police he was "looking to move to the passing lane when he drifted to the right" and his 2004 Toyota Corolla struck the side of the trooper's patrol car, the news release said.
Trooper Madley was transported to North Medical Center Urgent Care, where he was treated and released.
Roebig was issued tickets charging him with failure to yield the right of way to an emergency vehicle and driving on the shoulder of a controlled-access highway, both violations.
State police reminded drivers to pay attention to all emergency vehicles and tow trucks with its lights flashing on the side of the road.
"Under these circumstances, motorists are required to move from the lane closest to the emergency vehicle to the next lane over -- if it can safely be done given the flow of traffic," the state police news release said. "If drivers are unable to move over, they must slow their cars to a responsible speed and exercise considerable caution to make sure that emergency responders are as safe as possible."


text:
(LeBron is such a tease)
Puck Daddy: How long can the Red Wings stomach Chris Osgood's struggles?
Blog Maverick: Mark Cuban proves he really cares about the game and explains how the Detroit Pistons used math to win the 2004 championship.
USA Today: One hundred baseball prospects that we all need to know. 98. Dusty Ryan, C, Tigers.
The Hoop Doctors: NBA players are mis-timing the "Big Balls Dance."
Michigan Sports Center: Ladies and gentlemen, your 2009 Michigan recruiting class. Hail! Hail! Nah forget it.


text:
Tomorrow's Events and Sales: Loomstate Launches a Surf Shop in Bloomingdale's
Plus, check out the wares of jewelers, caterers, photographers, and more at the 'New York' Weddings event.
• Talk with wedding experts at the New York Weddings event. Enjoy cocktails and meet with jewelers, caterers, photographers, fashion designer, planners, and more. Tickets are available here : $35 for one, $50 for two. Metropolitan Pavilion; 125 W. 18th St., nr. Seventh Ave.; 5–8.
• Get ready for summer with Bloomingdale's new surf shop. Founders of menswear brand Loomstate will unveil their new Surf Lodge collection and showcase custom surfboards from artist Robb Havassy. Proceeds from the boards benefit the Surfrider Foundation. Surf-inspired cocktails will be served. Bloomingdale's, 1000 Third Ave., at 59th St., men's metro level (212-705-2000); 6–8.


text:
14993 Players currently online!
Man vs. Machine - good luck!
Turn-based games at any time!
Vote for the best move to win!
Do you have what it takes?
Backgammon, Yatzy, and more!
Sharpen your tactical vision!
Get advice and game insights!
Learn from top players & pros!
View millions of master games!
Your virtual chess coach!
Perfect your opening moves!
Test your skills vs. computer!
Find the right private coach!
Can you solve it each day?
Bring it all together!
Beginners, start here!
Make friends & play team games!
News from the world of chess!
Search all Chess.com members!
Find local clubs & events!
Who's the best of your friends?
Read what members are saying!
We've all seen it before...Someone is bored and wants to play a game of chess but there are no worthy opponents around. So he decides to play against himself. I've done it a few times, have you? Sometimes I subconsciously choose a side and constantly have to remind myself that I can't do that in order to practice pure strategy.
I'd also like to know how this might affect your game? Does it make you better since you are playing an opponent equally rated to yourself, or does it somehow worsen your game?
sometimes i *play* agaisnt myself to help remember openings or to play out possible moves my oppenent would make and counters for those moves but most pepole could not play agaisnt themselves without the starain of reminding themselves not to favor once certain side
I have tried it once or twice, but I always knew my own plan. (I won 100% of the time) : D
I would think you never would win. Just a bunch of draws.
I play myself all the time, but I allow takebacks. I call it analysis
Then you have this aspect of it...if you have a self-mutilating personality, you always lose! If you are an overconfident player, you fall into traps...
Here's the kicker. Play moves, and then always try to find a flaw in what you just played, and no take backs. Do it for both sides, and play both sides aggressively. Forsake your plans and play for blood, sweat and tears. You really will have a hard battle then - and a headache! :-)
I can remember playing at the board during nights when I couldn't get any rest. I would try out different styles of play, and play both sides with heart. Of course, considering that personal analysis is always flawed, I was always able to find something I missed when I switched colors, and it made the game very tough, to say the least. One side would finally become dominant. It was rare that I made any draws. I remember one time I played myself and I did manage to secure a draw, but it was a bloody battle. Both the White and Black side of me were beaten Black and Blue!
Cute story, by the way...it brought a smile to my face.
I play with myself ... ;) LOLZORZ question
Interesting, I wish I had that ability to concentrate on BOTH sides.
I always thought the trick would necessitate some ability to forget/distance yourself from the game at hand, and I never really figured out how I might do that and keep it interesting. Like, should you only make a move once a week, and set it entirely aside so that you remain impartial enough?
I bet grandmasters can lay in bed doing that (visualizing throwing the pieces out, seeing variations), which trips me right out.
Moreover, how embarrassing is it when/if you play yourself and you have it analysed afterwards and both sides are making mad blunders? Haha. I prefer to screw up only ONE side of the board at a time.
Well, it isn't really forgetting - try this - begin to purposefully create an imbalance on side of the board, and the other side play for a different purpose. Let's say, for instance, that you want to practice attack, and defense at the same time. So with White, let's play all moves as if we have an attacking purpose, but play Black with a more conservative approach. This will affect your opening choices, and how you handle them. It sounds hard, but really, don't invest extra effort into it. Here's another way to do it. Play out both sides full force for about 15 moves, and then purposefully make a lemon with one side, or better yet, play an unanalyzed move that is entirely speculative, like a pawn sac, or an exchange sacrifice... and then continue the game at full speed. When you think you understand the plan, then do something sporadic so that you have to re-evaluate the position.
I used to do this a lot...I haven't really done it anymore, I just to analysis if I do anything anymore. Right now I am in a fun stage - play chess and have fun, lose and learn, and celebrate my wins...At the moment, I don't even study my wins, as crazy as that sounds. I figure, the idea works - so I use it until someone else proves that it doesn't work, and then I try to modify it...
I just like to have fun. But if you are going to play against yourself, try new and creative things, like playing openings that you have no idea how to normally handle, like even something like 1. h4 with White, or 1. e4 h5...or something totally different. You might learn a few positional approaches this way as well.
I have played games against myself in the past. I had to stop because they kept ending up in j'adoube touch-move arguments or clock flag-drop disputes that ended in brutal fistfights.
I also had to stop. I kept offering myself a draw. This continual offering a draw each move kept irritating me.
Playing Chess against yourself ?! I think that's kind of weird ...
I play against myself all the time as it helps to boost my standard of playing and allow me to take the steps I want in order to have the game evolve into a specific position I want to experiment and explore. It's also good for openings as you can determine the routes that will be taken before an actual game. Then, when you apply that opening, you already know beforehand your opponent's likely reply and can cut down on time and plan further into the game.
The letdown is that 80% of the time the game will result in a draw (at least for me....) and that the best reply to you might be another to a different person. You are not another, and another isn't you.
WOOOT!!!! I have a good record againts myself 12-12-4. I'd say I'm evenly matched...lol
But seriously, I like to do this to see moves I could be played by other opponents. And the rest is analization.
Don't you guys know playing with yourself can make you blind ?
No, but once I had made a few seeks and one player accepted two seeks before I realized it. He was playing white on one of our boards and black on the other...and replicated my moves on both boards...so I was essentially being forced to play against myself or I'd lose on time...all of which was really irritating.
Whenever I analyze a certain game either mine or another's, I often lose myself in a position where I'm not sure who has the advantage (either tactical or postional) and play a game against myself utilizing the resources up until a point in the endgame (if it lasts that long) where it is a dead draw or it is sure one side can win. It actually proves useful sometimes as it improved my estimation of my opponent's resources.
Who won those games? :)
..Funny but why do all of my games against myself always end in draws? :D
Is this variant of play called Matrix Chess ?
10/25/2016 - Too Far Advanced
by Sun4Ray a few minutes ago
From Zero to Hero
by bunicula a few minutes ago
Computer analysis Disappear
by Martin_Stahl 3 minutes ago
Nakamura is Japanese not American
by Live-The-Moment 4 minutes ago
First Time accused of cheating!
by apotosaurus 5 minutes ago
Do I have the potential to be a GM one day??
by MeTheBoxLuhst 5 minutes ago
Cant play tournament
by Martin_Stahl 6 minutes ago
Chess Addiction the same ratio as to Heroin!
by MeTheBoxLuhst 7 minutes ago
Deleting Themes
by Martin_Stahl 8 minutes ago
Knights to Remember
by goodknightmike 12 minutes ago
Home |
Why Join | Chess Topics |
About |
FAQs |
Help & Support |
Site Map
Privacy Policy |
Legal |
© 2016 Chess.com
• Chess - English
Try the new Chess.com!
We are working hard to make Chess.com available in over 70 languages. Check back over the year as we develop the technology to add more, and we will try our best to notify you when your language is ready for translating!


text:
Here's a Flint Journal letter to the editor for March 27, 2009:
We are outraged after learning that American International Group Inc. is contractually obligated to pay bonuses. We do not understand why those contracts are being honored and the UAW is being forced to renegotiate its contracts. If we, the American people, now own 80 percent of AIG, then we say don't pay them for their bad behavior and ineptitude.
We cannot believe Congress is allowing this to go on. Fire them and let them sue if they feel their contracts have been violated. We cannot imagine they would win.
It is the middle class taking it on the chin. Good, hardworking people are losing their jobs, their benefits, their homes, their way of life and their sense of self-respect because of what went on at AIG and other financial institutions, and it makes us physically sick to see them rewarded.
If the Delphi Corp. bankruptcy judge can allow that company to take health and life insurance benefits away from its salaried retirees and not even allow them the right to bargain, how does it seem fair?
As taxpaying citizens, we feel it is our right to demand that our lawmakers do something, and do it now to end this foolishness. There should not be two sets of rules depending on where you fall on the financial scale.
William Trarop
Sharon Trarop
Mt. Morris
See more Flint Journal letters to the editor. | Give your view on this letter in the comments area below.


text:
You may also like
Ratings for Dr. Jose A. Torres
Awesomeness great job thorough listens is respectful. God bless him.
Wonderful Dr. Knowledgable and ever so gracious. I have post polio syndrome along with adrenal insuffiency, and so many other issues, and I thank God for Dr. Torres, and his staff. GOD BLESS, Maryann Picarello
I have many issues . Disc replacement in my neck, fibromyalgia, arthritis . Dr. Torras is given me many injections and epidurals. He does everything he can to help me. So thankful I have him. He takes the time to explain everything to me . Everyone in the office is wonderful and I understand everything that they say. Wonderful doctor and staff.
Yes I was a patient of Dr courses for 4 years so paid I was very shocked when I got the letter in the mail stating he can no longer see me and its been 7 months now still trying to find a pain doctor said um I don't have to pay $500 for I wish you all the luck because to me is not a great also I get a letter after 4 years Sadie so if your self paid. in a prepared to be cut off from
Dr. Torres broke off our patient/doctor pain management contract after I was seen in the emergency room following a car accident where I was prescribed and received medication in the e.r. I found this extremely cold hearted, not to mention having a patient go "cold turkey" after being on medications for some time. Dr. Torres also does not have an on call physician after office hours in the even an emergency room doctor could consult with him. I would never recommend such an unprofessional and uncaring physician again. Also, the office staff is very hard to understand on the telephone, I've been disconnected several times, and the office manager, Marisol Gibbons treats the patients like children. I am over the age of 60 and I do not appreciate being treated like a school child.
the worst experience I ever had the stuff is rude and they will hang up the phone to you when you need something I called them back and they said bye do not call here.
I have used Dr Torres on several occasions to deal with pain and numbness from cervical spine issues. I was apprehensive for the first visit, but now I look forward to the almost instant relief. He is a great docter and a good person too!
I can not say enough about Dr. Torres. I have stenosis and was not able to walk. I did three epideral injections in 2009 over 4 weeks (1 every 2 weeks) and it worked. It wore off the following year, like he said it might, so I did three more in 2010. He had better technology so he did the guided injection (I watched on screen as he did it.) This time, he was able to vary the injection to help with my major problem in the right side and the new problem in my left side. Note that I am a PE teacher and I am basically back to normal. I lost feeling in 4 toes but that was due to the injury and prior to the injections. As a former football player, it's nice to be able to do things again. Should I have a reoccurence, which is possible, I am just going straight to Dr. Torres. He is awesome. He is highly recommended by Dr. Max Medary, who is an awesome neurosurgeon in Orlando.
I have the greatest appreciation and respect for Dr. Torres. He has enabled my spouse to resume normal activities after a failed lumbar fusion 8 yrs ago and has enabled me to return to jogging/exercise in less than 3 yrs after a collapsed disk. He has enabled both of us to keep our back pain under control so that I could continue to work, traveling back and forth to UK, and my spouse able to enjoy her great-nieces visits. He is attentive, knowledgeable, concerned and works with you to allow you to live your life without pain controlling you.
Dr. Jose A. Torres's Credentials
Facility Affiliations
Accepting New Patients
- Johns Hopkins Univ Sch Of Med, Baltimore Md 21205 (Grad. 1988)
Other Specialties
Areas of Expertise
Awards & Recognitions
Publications & Research
Insurance accepted by this Doctor
Top Hospitals in Kissimmee, FL
Top Urgent Care Centers in Kissimmee, FL
Find a Doctor by Specialty
Featured News
You may also like
Top Pain Management Specialists / Physical Therapists
#1 of 10
#2 of 10
#3 of 10
#4 of 10
#5 of 10


text:
TORONTO - The Yankees scored as many runs today as they did in their previous four games combined. Brett Gardner, Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez each drove in three runs, and Rodriguez and Jeter each hit milestone home runs in a 9-4 victory.
Darrell Rasner got the win but wasn't particularly sharp. He allowed four runs (three earned) on seven hits, holding the Jays 2-for-13 with men in scoring position and stranding seven runners.
Rodriguez's homer off the left-field foul screen in the fourth inning was his 19th of the season. It was the 537th homer of his career, breaking a tie with Mickey Mantle for 13th most all-time. It was also A-Rod's 192nd homer as a Yankee, tying him with Tino Martinez for 15th on the franchise career list.
The Yankees scored four runs in the second inning and three in the third to knock out Jesse Litsch (8-5). Just three of the eight runs off Litsch were earned.
Sloppy Yankees defense helped the Jays score four runs in the bottom of the first, wiping out the lead from Jeter's leadoff homer (his 200th career home run).
Right fielder Bobby Abreu played two balls into triples in the inning -- a fly ball on which he took a bad route and a grounder in the gap that he let roll under his glove. And Chad Moeller was guilty of catcher's interference.


text:
GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- You'll want to grab a light jacket today. And you may need an umbrella, too.
Forecasters are calling for mild temperatures Saturday, Nov. 10, with a high near 61. There's a 30 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms.
Sunday will be breezy with a high near 63, forecasters predict.
Today: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1pm. Cloudy, with a high near 61. South wind 9 to 11 mph.
Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low around 51. South wind around 11 mph.
Veterans Day: Partly sunny, with a high near 63. Breezy, with a south wind 13 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph.
Sunday Night: Showers, mainly after 1am. Low around 46. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New precipitation amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.
Hazardous Weather Outlook: A few non-severe thunderstorms are possible Saturday. Brief heavy rainfall, cloud-to-ground lightning and small hail will be the main threats.
Here's the forecast for Grand Rapids. Check the latest update.
Here's the forecast map from Accuweather.com:


text:
Shirley A. Felker was a cafeteria worker at Londonderry Elementary School.
She was a retired manager of McDonald's in Elizabethtown.
Felker, 78, of Londonderry Township died July 17.
She was the widow of Harry G. Felker.
Surviving are her daughter, Julie A. Felker, of Middletown; two sons, Jay A. and his wife, Betsy Felker, of Frankford, Del., Jeffrey A. and his wife, Betsy Felker, of Middletown; her sister, Nancy, and her husband, Merle Brenneman, of Mount Joy; two grandsons, Jacob A. and Benjamin J. Felker, of Middletown; and her granddaughter, Maddison A. Felker, of Frankford, Del.
From her guest book:
"I was one of the many lucky ones to have had Shirley as my manager at my first job at McDonald's in Highspire. I loved working with her and will always remember her wonderful smile."
-- Tracey Murray Otstot, San Tan Valley, Ariz.
"Shirley was such a delight to work with at Londonderry. Her infectious smile and laugh light up the room. She will be missed!"
-- Debra Brooks
"Shirley worked with us at McDonalds for many years. She was always positive and cheerful. I know she will be greatly missed by her family and all who knew her."
-- Dennis and Ginny Miller, Edmond, Okla.
To read more obituaries, click here.
Sign up to get 'Today's Front Page' in your inbox every morning
"Today's Front Page" is a new morning email newsletter that delivers the day's top headlines to your inbox seven days a week. This newsletter is sent every morning at 6 a.m. and includes the morning's top stories, a full list of obituaries, links to comics and puzzles and the most recent news, sports and entertainment headlines.
The newsletter is free and it's easy to sign up. Just visit pennlive.com/newsletters to sign up for "Today's Front Page" and other PennLive newsletters.


text:
Pocket Essentials is a dynamic series of books that are concise, lively, and easy to read. Packed with facts as well as expert opinions, each book has all the key information you need to know about such popular topics as film, television, cult fiction, history, and more. From the moment Mickey Mouse stepped aboard Steamboat Willie, animation has been a global phenomenon.
Whether its Bugs Bunny or Tom and Jerry, or newcomers like Wallace & Gromit and Toy Story's Woody & Buzz, animation continues to create characters that are loved by children of all ages. For the first time, Jeremy Clarke brings together the innovators of animation from around the world - Japan's legendary Hayao Miyazaki, Czech surrealist Jan Svankmajer, American CGI wizard John Lassiter, and Britain's own maestro Nick Park - in one volume covering everything from the classic to the cutting edge.
"These miniature guides are packed to the margins with important facts and enlightening commentary." --"Publishers Weekly"
|Introduction: The Child Receives a Lesson in a Twentyfourth of a Second
|p. 9
|Pioneers - Development of animation plus Emile Cohl and Winsor McCay
|p. 21
|Innovators - Reiniger, the Fleischers and Disney
|p. 31
|Broadening Horizons - From Warner Brothers to UPA
|p. 57
|Britain and Canada - Animators from Norman McLaren to Aardman
|p. 81
|Eastern Europe - Trnka, Norstein, Svankmajer and 'honorary' Europeans the Brothers Quay
|p. 107
|Anime - A Brief Introduction
|p. 123
|Computer Animation
|p. 131
|The Simpsons and Beyond - TV animation since 1989
|p. 141
|Animator's Dozen - 12 Animated Films to Discover
|p. 151
|Resources - Books and Websites
|p. 155
|Table of Contents provided by Ingram. All Rights Reserved.
Series: Pocket Essentials S.
Audience: General
Format: Paperback
Language: English
Number Of Pages: 157
Published: 1st February 2004
Country of Publication: GB
Dimensions (cm): 19.8 x 12.9 x 1.1
Weight (kg): 0.091


text:
Page content:
Defy users! It's the day you would want to celebrate — the famous MIUI ROM, that combines the best of iOS and Android, is now available for your dear phone, and that too with the latest and greatest Android OS version, 2.3.4.
MIUI ROM is one of the most sought after ROM on Android and almost every custom users wants one for his phone. The ROM is already available on almost all high-end devices from Samsung, Motorola and HTC, ad so, it's more delight to the users of Defy, who got lucky to get one.
But what matters now for the Defy users is the download link, right? Well, you can download the MIUI ROM using a direct link from the MIUI's website itself. Check out this page and locate your Defy at the bottom of the page. Click on the Download button to begin the download — which is around 83 MB.
Initial reports from the users suggest it's a Chinese language only version. We guess it would take some time — maybe a couple of days — when the English language is supported too, which is very much required.
Install Instructions:
Here is what I was able to get from this page:
for install the rom use the same process used for cm7:
(For all have cm7, jumping to second-last point)
– install nordic sbf
– root and install 2nd init
– reboot 2 times for apply 2init.
at third reboot when light sensor is blue press the down volume button and enter in android bootmenu:
– select recovery, wipe data and cache, install zip from sd card.
<will be updated later>
We'll update this post with the step-by-step guide when we are sure about the best and complete installation process, along with links to tools and everything. Till then, you can try flashing the ROM using recovery. Know that flashing a ROM (MIUI here) is risky and could brick your phone. You're at your own.
Via XDA


text:
FORT MEADE, Md. - Pfc. Bradley Manning put U.S. military secrets into the hands of Osama bin Laden himself, prosecutors said Monday as the Army intelligence analyst went on trial over leaking hundreds of thousands of classified documents.
Manning's lawyers countered by arguing that he was a "young, naive but good-intentioned" soldier whose struggle to fit in as a gay man in the military made him feel he "needed to do something to make a difference in this world."
Manning, 25, has admitted turning over the material to the anti-secrecy website WikiLeaks, pleading guilty earlier this year to charges that could bring 20 years behind bars. But the military pressed ahead with a court-martial on more serious charges, including aiding the enemy, which carries a potential life sentence.
Article Photos
In this courtroom sketch, Army Pfc. Bradley Manning watches at left as his defense attorney, David Coombs, right, speaks in front of military judge Army Col. Denise Lind on the opening day of Manning's court martial in Fort Meade, Md., Monday, June 3, 2013.
Prosecutors said they will present evidence that bin Laden requested and obtained from another al-Qaida member Afghanistan battlefield reports and State Department cables published by WikiLeaks.
"This is a case about a soldier who systematically harvested hundreds of thousands of documents from classified databases and then dumped that information onto the Internet into the hands of the enemy," prosecutor Capt. Joe Morrow said.
He said the case is "about what happens when arrogance meets access to sensitive information."
Wearing his dress blue uniform, the slightly built Manning peered through his small eyeglasses at a slide show of the prosecutor's hour-long opening statement, watching on a laptop computer at the defense table. The slide show also was projected on three larger screens in the courtroom, which had seats for only about 50 people.
Later, almost motionless, the soldier from Crescent, Okla., sat forward in his chair, looking toward his defense attorney, David Coombs, throughout his 25-minute opening statement.
Coombs said Manning struggled to do the right thing as "a humanist," a word engraved on his custom-made dog tags. As an analyst in Baghdad, Manning had access to hundreds of millions of documents but selectively leaked material, Coombs said. He mentioned an unclassified video of a 2007 U.S. Apache helicopter attack that mistakenly killed civilians, including a Reuters photographer.
"He believed this information showed how we value human life. He was troubled by that. He believed that if the American public saw it, they too would be troubled," Coombs said.
Coombs did not address whether bin Laden ever saw any of the material. The soldier has said he did not believe the information would harm the U.S.
Coombs said Manning struggled privately with gender identity early in his tour of duty, when gays couldn't openly serve in the military.


text:
MarineLab offers several opportunities for teachers and other adults to learn more about the marine ecology of the Florida Keys. All programs are held at our facility in Key Largo, Florida, and most meals are provided in our cafeteria. The accommodations are rustic, but the programs are a wonderful experience. Some workshops offer the opportunity for graduate credit or continuing service points. Space is available on a first come, first served basis; reserve it today!
Summer 2012 Workshops July 23 - 28, 2012
Pictures from the 2010 Coastal Marine Ecology workshop
Pictures from the 2010 Advanced Ecology workshop
Pictures from the 2010 Reef Check Workshop
ReefCheck Eco Diver Certification
Did you ever dream of becoming a marine biologist or do you just love diving? The Reef Check EcoDiver program allows anyone with an interest in the ocean -- from kids to adults -- to learn more about tropical coral reefs. Reef Check combines education with action to give volunteers a unique experience while taking an active role in conserving the world's reefs. Using the globally standardized scientific protocol, the Reef Check EcoDiver program collects valuable data to establish the status of coral reefs world wide. The data are analyzed and used locally by marine park managers, nationally by fisheries and environment managers and internationally by organizations including United Nations agencies to help better track and care for coral reefs.
Dates for 2012 have not yet been set, but if you are interested, please contact email@example.com.


text:
This concept teaches students the properties of kites and how to apply them.
In this fun talk, see some real-world applications of kites! Saul Griffith shows an invention his company has been working on: giant kite turbines that create surprising amounts of clean, renewable energy.
This video gives more detail about the mathematical principles presented in Kites.
This video shows how to work step-by-step through one or more of the examples in Kites.
A list of student-submitted discussion questions for Kites.
Learn about the many roles of kites throughout history and how you can build one of your own.
This study guide looks at properties and theorems about trapezoids and kites.


text:
Share the Inspiration!
$5.35 to $5.55 $3.74 to $3.88
Select Your Color:
Browse by Color Family
Let your imagination run wild with the beautiful Swarovski Crystal Teardrop Pendant. Many of the colors have a metallic finish on one side to create extra sparkle and reflective shine on the other side. Graduated or dual color effects are exquisite and add just a hint of opalescence or fade from deep, dark tones to lighter pigments. Learn all about Swarovski Crystal in our Swarovski Q and A.
Have a question about this item? Email us and we'd love to help!
Product Sku: MM1249
Brand: Swarovski
Beading Techniques
Inspiration Projects
Beading Q & A
Helpful Design Tips


text:
- News
- Calendar
- Blogs
- Sports
- Entertainment
- Business
- Lifestyles
- Community
- Opinion
- About Us
- Classifieds
- Coupons
- Local Savings
- Green Editions
- Legal Notices
- Contests
- Weekly Ads
- Connect2Classes
Connect with Us
Belfair boots bare baristas
While certain Gorst baristas have been serving coffee in pasties every Tuesday for about eight months, Belfair baristas who tried to do the same thing only lasted half a day, according to one Mason County official.
Commissioner Tim Sheldon said the owners of Espresso Gone Wild in Gorst — Jerry Wilson and Phillip Olson — opened a second location on the 23000 block of State-Route 3 in Belfair, but it was quickly shut down due to zoning laws.
"According to the county's erotic entertainment ordinance, it is not allowed in (Mason County's) Urban Growth Area," Sheldon said, explaining that Belfair, which is unincorporated, is contained in the UGA, and that "pasties and thongs" were considered erotic entertainment.
Sheldon said the zoning laws were explained to Wilson and Olson in a letter from Barbara Robinson, Mason County's Community Development Director, dated July 30.
"There does seem to be some question on the clothing/attire that employees of your proposed espresso stand will be wearing," Robinson wrote, quoting the definition of erotic entertainment as "any exhibition (that) involves a person (exposing) any portion of the female breast below the top of the areola."
Robinson goes on to explain that "erotic entertainment is not (listed) as an allowed use or a special use ... in the Belfair UGA, (therefore) it is the County's interpretation that the use in prohibited."
However, Robinson adds that the stand's owners do "have the right to appeal this interpretation to the Mason County Planning Advisory Commission."
While the stand is now shuttered, Sheldon said it was his understanding that the owners would be making adjustments to the amount of clothing their baristas wear in an attempt to re-open.
"That's what I heard, and we'd love to have them sell coffee," Sheldon said, explaining that while the espresso stand was not listed as an agenda item for a special meeting of the Mason County commissioners July 29, several community members did speak out against the stand during that meeting.
"There were two other community meetings, as well," Sheldon continued, describing them as organized by a citizens' group. He did not attend the first, which he said had about 80 attendees, but attended the second held earlier this week at Belfair Elementary School that attracted about two dozen people.
Latest news, top stories, and community events,
delivered to your inbox.
Trending Stories Oct 19 - Oct 26
Read the Oct 21
Green Edition
Browse the print edition page by page, including stories and ads.
Browse the archives.


text:
The Tatamy and Palmer Township fire companies are competing for a top prize of $700 in a statewide contest.
The fire departments are vying against 20 other departments in eight counties in Pennsylvania American Water Company's "Keystone Firefighting Challenge."
The contest is a Facebook "liking" competition that allows the two top vote-getters to earn $700 and $300, respectively, to offset the cost of equipment and training.
Facebook users can vote once a day through July 30 for their favorite fire department at www.facebook.com/pennsylvaniaamwater. Users can click "voting contest" to see a list of participating fire departments and short descriptions of what their grants will fund.
Tatamy firefighters want to use the prize money toward new pagers for station members while Palmer hopes to use it for fire prevention materials for a community open house.
Pennsylvania American Water President Kathy L. Pape said in a statement the organization is proud of those who serve the state's communities and wants to provide additional funding to help offset the cost of protective gear, communication equipment and training that can help improve fire protection.
"We encourage people to read about each of their important projects and to vote daily throughout the contest for their favorite fire departments," Pape said.
The winners will be announced in early August.
Pennsylvania American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest water utility in the state, providing water and/or wastewater services to approximately 2.1 million people.


text:
UPDATE: Woman dies after being struck by vehicle in Allentown, coroner says
A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle and seriously injured this morning at Alton Avenue and Oxford Drive in Allentown, an assistant police chief reports.
Emergency responders were performing CPR on the woman after the accident about 7:30, George Medero said. The woman was being transported to an area hospital, he said.
Further details were not immediately available.


text:
This deal has ended.
These Women's New Balance 470 Running Shoes drop from an original $64.99 to $24.99 today only at Joe's New Balance Outlet. Even with $5.95 shipping that's the best price we found by more than $5. This classic design features cushioning and support. Sales tax is charged in most states.No longer available


text:
GRAND RAPIDS -- Organist and choral conductor Martin Neary was involved with several of the most important ceremonies in modern English history.
As a 13-year-old boy, he sang in the choir for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.
As organist and master of choristers at Westminster Abbey, 45 years later, he presided over the music for the funeral of Diana, Princess of Wales, in 1997.
"I just happened to be around at a fascinating time," Neary said.
The English musician will be in West Michigan this week in connection with the exhibition "Diana -- A Celebration" opening Tuesday at the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
Neary is in Grand Rapids to lead the Grand Rapids Choir of Men and Boys in a concert titled "Music for Royal Occasions."
The free concert on Friday evening will include music performed at both Queen Elizabeth II's coronation and Princess Diana's funeral.
"They had over a year to prepare," he recalled about the coronation. "We had six days for the funeral. It just concentrates the mind."
Friday's public performance, which also will be given privately on Saturday for the museum's Centennial Gala, will include only portions of the original ceremonies. The June 1953 coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in Westminster Abby was the first British coronation televised.
"The service book ran to 200 pages. There was an incredible amount of music," said Neary, who has visited here twice previously, in May 2009 and again last May, to work with the Grand Rapids Choir of Men and Boys, which sings in the English cathedral tradition of music.
Grand Rapids Choir of Men and Boys
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Where: Cathedral of St. Andrew, 301 Sheldon Blvd. SE
Tickets: Freewill offering
More info: grcmb.com
"Music for Royal Occasions" also will include music from the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana in July 1981 in St. Paul's Cathedral in London, of which Neary wasn't a participant; and the Golden Wedding Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in November 1997, which Neary organized.
Grand Rapids soprano Diane Penning and organist Kenneth Bos will participate in the performance of the Grand Rapids Choir of Men and Boys, directed by Scott Bosscher.
Though Nearly had only met Princess Diana briefly on a couple of occasions following services at Westminster Abbey, as organist and master of the choristers, he was in charge of the music for her funeral, which included traditional music as well as Elton John's version of his song "Candle in the Wind" with new lyrics by his songwriting partner, Bernie Taupin.
"You could put part of the blame on me," Neary recalled. "If we hadn't had something like that, people wouldn't have felt that the service was inclusive enough."
E-mail Jeffrey Kaczmarczyk: email@example.com


text:
Share This Page:
by Karen Redlener, Executive Director, Children's Health Fund
Last night, Children's Health Fund (CHF)'s annual benefit celebrated beginnings. Our three honorees Joan Baez, Jane Pauley, and James L. Dolan, were each a part of an important beginning for Irwin and me and the Children's Health Fund.
Joan Baez received CHF's Humanitarian Award for a lifetime of inspiration and unerring dedication to the well-being and human rights of all people. Joan was with Irwin and me at the beginning of our careers in Lee County, Arkansas, when she helped save the Lee County Cooperative Clinic which Irwin was running. To be able to recognize our dear friend Joan and witness an entire audience give her a standing ovation, is a moment I will not soon forget. We were also graced with Joan's angelic voice when she performed with CHF Co-Founder, Paul Simon, bringing the entire audience to their feet once again.
CHF's Founders Award was given to Jane Pauley, another long-time, dear friend to both Irwin and me and to Children's Health Fund. Jane was with Irwin, Paul Simon, and me at the beginning of the start of CHF. She has guided us as a member of our Board of Directors and Chair of CHF's Advisory Council, encouraged others to become aware about our organization, and helped CHF raise much needed funds to expand our National Network of programs throughout the country. Since the beginning, Jane has been a true member of the CHF family.
CHF's prestigious Corporate Award was given to James L. Dolan for his support of CHF during the beginning of CHF's endeavor in the Gulf Coast region after Hurricane Katrina. Dolan was instrumental in the production of "From the Big Apple to the Big Easy"—the benefit concert that raised money to benefit long-term hurricane relief efforts and. Funds raised supported the expansion of CHF's fleet of mobile medical clinics in the Gulf region. Our fleet remains there today, ensuring quality care for underserved kids still affected by the aftermath of the Hurricane.
It was a night to celebrate these beginnings and the work CHF has done over the last 23 years to help children receive access to quality health care. But it was also a night to reflect on the long road ahead…and the new beginnings on the horizon. While the passing of health insurance reform back in March was a step in the right direction, we must not forget that health insurance doesn't equal health care. Work remains to address the many barriers to accessing care that affect many of CHF's families across the nation, preventing many kids from just getting to a regular well-child visit to treat a chronic illness before it results in a more serious ER visit or preventable hospitalization.
With support like we have seen from our honorees and from those who attended last evening, CHF will be able to address and try to eliminate these barriers and continue to provide quality and consistent care to the most underserved children across the US.


text:
People are asked to leave non-perishable foods in a sturdy bag next to their mailbox prior to their regular mail delivery time. Suggested food items include canned soup, canned vegetables, pasta, rice, and cereal.
Food collected in the Augusta-Aiken area will go to the Golden Harvest Food Bank. Last year, the food bank received 72,012 pounds of food from the drive, said Carrie Jones, events and food drive coordinator.
People may also drop off non-perishable items at any area post office Saturday, she said.
For more information, contact Golden Harvest Food Bank at (706) 736-1199 or visit www.helpstampouthunger.com.


text:
Like this study set? Create a free account to save it.
Create an account
Studying the positions of the stars and planets in the belief that they influence the course of human affairs and natural occurrences on earth.
the school of psychology, founded by John Watson, that defines psychology as the scientific study of observable behavior
specialist who tries to explain behavior in terms of biological factors, such as electrical and chemical activities in the nervous system, the effects of drugs and hormones, genetics, and evolutionary pressures
Clinical psychologist
a psychologist who specializes in the treatment of psychological and behavioral disturbances or who does research on such disturbances
Cognitive psychologist
Psychologists who study the mental processes underlying judgment, decision making, problem solving, imagining, and other aspects of human thought or cognition. Also called experimental psychologists
Comparative psychologist
Psychologist who study behavioral similarities and differences among animal species
The existence of a consistent, systematic relationship between two events, measures, or variables
Correlational study
a nonexperimental study designed to measure the degree of relationship (if any) between two or more events, measures, or variables
Counseling psychologist
a psychologist who specializes in the treatment of milder emotional and behavioral disturbances
a mental health professional who specializes in helping people with problems not involving serious mental disorder; for example, marriage counselors, career counselors, or school counselors
Courtesy bias
the tendency of those being surveyed to provide responses that will please and/or not offend the interviewer, moderator, or other participants
Cultural relativity
The idea that behavior must be judged relative to the values of the culture in which it occurs.
the idea that all behavior has prior causes that would completely explain one's choices and actions if all such causes were known
Evolutionary psychologist
Investigate how our behavior is guided by patterns that evolved during the long history of humankind.
a deliberate manipulation of a variable to see if corresponding changes in behavior result, allowing the determination of cause-and-effect relationships
Experimental group
in a controlled experiment, the group subjected to a change in the independent variable
The school of psychology concerned with how behavior and mental abilities help people adapt to their environments.
Gestalt psychology
a school of psychology emphasizing the study of thinking, learning, and perception in whole units, not by analysis into parts
An approach to psychology that focuses on human experience, problems, potentials, and ideals.
Independent variable
the variable in a controlled experiment that the experimenter directly and purposefully manipulates to see how the other variables under study will be affected
Observer bias
the tendency of an observer to distort observations or perceptions to match his or her expectations
False system that claims that lines on hands reveal personality traits and predict the future.
an inert substance or condition that may be administered instead of a presumed active agent, such as a drug, to see if it triggers the effects believed to characterize the active agent
Placebo effect
Changes in behavior due to a participant's expectations that a drug (or other treatment) will have some effect.
any false and unscientific system of beliefs and practices that is offered as an explanation of behavior
Psychiatric social worker
a mental health professional trained to apply social science principles to help patients in clinics and hospitals
Freud's theory of personality that attributes thoughts and actions to unconscious motives and conflicts
a mental health professional (usually a medical doctor) trained to practice psychoanalysis
Psychodynamic theory
Freudian theory that unconscious forces, such as wishes and motives (often sexual) that influence behaviors
Random assignment
a procedure that uses a random event to assign people to the experimental or control group
Representative sample
a small, randomly selected part of a larger population that accurately reflects characteristics of the whole population
an unconscious process that excludes unacceptable thoughts and feelings from awareness and memory
Scientific observation
An empirical investigation structured to answer questions about the world in a systematic and intersubjective fashion (observations can be reliably confirmed by multiple observers)
Self image
Total subjective perception of one's body and personality (another term for self-concept).
Self fulfilling prophecy
an expectation that causes you to act in ways that make that expectation come true.
Social psychologist
focus on social rules and roles, how groups affect attitudes and behavior and how each of us is affected by other people
the school of thought concerned with analyzing sensations and personal experience into basic elements
contents of the mind that are beyond awareness, especially impulses and desires not directly known to a person
Uncritical acceptance
The tendency to believe generally positive or flattering descriptions of oneself.
Psychoanalytic approach
originated with Sigmund Freud, who emphasized unconscious motivations and conflicts, and the importance of early childhood experiences.
early perspective in psychology associated with Wilhelm Wundt and Edward Titchener, in which the focus of study is the structure or basic elements of the mind
William James's school of thought that stressed the adaptive and survival value of behaviors
Gestalt Psychology
Study of human conciens cant be broken down into element because study of the mind as a whole is different than the sum of the parts.
Creator: Max Wertheimer
Humanistic Approach
Focuses on positive human qualities, capacity for self-actualization, free will. Developed in responce to Behaviorists & Psychodynamic approaches (Carl Rogers, Abraham Maslow)
The view that psychology (1) should be an objective science and (2) emphasizes observabable behavior that can be objectively measured. Emerged from the pioneering work of Ivan Pavlov, John B. Watson, and B.F. Skinner.
Wilhelm Wundt's method of having trained observers report on their conscious, moment-to-moment reactions
The unconscious
According to Sigmund Freud, the unconscious contains thoughts, memories, and desires that are well below the surface of conscious awareness but nonetheless exert great influence on behavior.
according to Abraham Maslow, the ultimate psychological need that arises after basic physical and psychological needs are met and self-esteem is achieved; the motivation to fulfill one's potential
Please allow access to your computer's microphone to use Voice Recording.
Having trouble? Click here for help.
We can't access your microphone!
Click the icon above to update your browser permissions and try again
Reload the page to try again!Reload
Press Cmd-0 to reset your zoom
Press Ctrl-0 to reset your zoom
It looks like your browser might be zoomed in or out. Your browser needs to be zoomed to a normal size to record audio.
Please upgrade Flash or install Chrome
to use Voice Recording.
For more help, see our troubleshooting page.
Your microphone is muted
For help fixing this issue, see this FAQ.
Star this term
You can study starred terms together


text:
State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli today called on the State Department of Health (DOH) to ensure that the proposed procurement process for replacing the state's current computer Medicaid payment system guarantees the best price and product for taxpayers. DiNapoli released an analysis that found the implementation of the current system, known as eMedNY, had been plagued by cost overruns, delays and inefficiencies that have cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars, not only in the cost of the system, but in the inability of the system to consistently track fraud, waste and abuse.
"eMedNY was implemented 33 months late and $166 million over budget," DiNapoli said. "And it still isn't working right. Our audits have uncovered hundreds of millions of dollars in Medicaid payments that should have been stopped by eMedNY. The system is supposed to save taxpayer dollars, not flush them down the drain.
"DOH has to do a better job on this procurement. The state spends more than $38 billion on Medicaid. Its the largest state expenditure, and opportunities abound for abuse. New York needs a payment system that efficiently tracks Medicaid payments. Were in the middle of a fiscal crisis. New Yorkers cant afford an ineffective eMedNY retread."
DiNapoli noted that despite the cost, the eMedNY system, which was implemented in March 2005, did not employ the most advanced technology available at the time. He urged DOH to make sure that the new system employs the most up-to-date technology and employs a fully competitive process. He recommended that DOH review the flaws in the prior procurement to avoid repeating the same errors. He also urged that DOH include penalties for delay and non-performance in the contract and strictly enforce these penalties.
Click here for a copy of DiNapolis analysis.


text:
The University of Texas-Pan American will soon celebrate Homecoming 2006 with a week of tradition and school spirit, which includes adding a homecoming dance to this year's schedule.
The University Program Board, the Office of Student Development, the Student Union and UTPA Athletics are co-sponsoring the week's events which will run from Jan. 30-Feb. 4.
Beginning Monday, Jan. 30 Yard Art will be on display at the Quad all week. The art will consist of billboards that student organizations have created to encourage homecoming events and school spirit.
Also on display for the entire week will be a photo exhibit highlighting the University's history. The exhibit will be set up in the Student Union and display photos from old yearbooks, including some of the UTPA football team from years ago. Other events for Homecoming 2006 include a chance to meet the baseball team, a night of live music, a comedy night, a cheer contest, and an office decorating competition.
A Tailgate Party/Pep Rally, which will include the traditional burning of the UTPA letters, is set for Thursday, Feb. 2 at the Fieldhouse parking lot. The celebration will follow immediately after the men's basketball game against Texas A&M-International at 7:30 p.m. in the Fieldhouse.
New to this year's schedule is the forgotten tradition of holding a homecoming dance. The UTPA Homecoming Dance is a formal with a theme of "Touch of Class," set for Friday, Feb. 3 from 8 p.m.-midnight in the Fine Arts Courtyard. Guests are asked to wear strictly black and white attire.
The winners for Homecoming Queen and King will be announced at the dance and also be recognized at both the men's and women's basketball games Saturday, Feb. 4, as the week of homecoming events draws to a close. The UTPA Broncs will play St. Edward's College at 1:30 p.m., while the Lady Broncs will take on Indiana University Purdue University-Fort Wayne at 7 p.m. Both games will be played in the UTPA Fieldhouse.
For more information regarding the Homecoming 2006 schedule, call UPB at 956/316-7991. For more information on voting or homecoming candidates, contact the Office of Student Development at 956/381-2660.


text:
WASHINGTON - U.S. home prices rose 12.1 percent in June from a year earlier, nearly matching a seven-year high. But month-over-month price gains slowed in most markets, a sign that higher mortgage rates may weigh on the housing recovery.
The Standard &Poor's/Case-Shiller 20-city home price index slowed only marginally from May's year-over-year gain of 12.2 percent, the fastest since March 2006. And all 20 cities posted gains from the previous month and compared with a year ago, according to the report released Tuesday.
Home prices in Las Vegas soared 24.9 percent from a year earlier to lead all cities. Purchases by investors have helped drive that increase.
Article Photos
In this Aug. 22, 2011 file photo, an 'Open House' sign is displayed in front of a new home being readied for sale in Little Rock, Ark. U.S. home prices rose 12.1 percent in June 2013 from a year earlier, nearly matching a seven-year high.
Other cities hit hard by the housing bust also posted stunning gains in the past year. Prices have jumped 24.5 percent in San Francisco and nearly 20 percent in both Los Angeles and Phoenix.
Still, 14 of the 20 cities posted smaller gains in June compared with May. That's unusual considering June is the middle of the summer buying season.
And in cities less affected by the housing crisis, gains have been more modest. Prices in New York and Cleveland are about 3 percent higher than a year earlier. Prices rose 5.7 percent in Washington, D.C. and 6.7 percent in Boston.
Most economists expect the overall index to slow to single digits in the coming months, which they see as a more sustainable pace.
"The fundamentals of the housing market are solid," said Gus Faucher, senior economist at PNC Financial Services. "Despite higher prices and mortgage rates, affordability is still much better than it was prior to the housing crash....Many households that put off buying a home in recent years are now getting back into the market, boosting demand. Lending standards for mortgage loans are easing somewhat."
The index covers roughly half of U.S. homes. It measures prices compared with those in January 2000 and creates a three-month moving average. The June figures are the latest available. They are not adjusted for seasonal variations, so the monthly gains reflect more buying activity over the summer.
Steady job gains and low mortgage rates have encouraged more Americans to buy homes. And even as demand has risen, a limited number of homes have been available for sale. That combination has led to sharp prices gains.
But mortgage rates have climbed more than a full percentage point since May. The increase has already slowed sales of new homes in July. And economists expect it could drag re-sales lower in August.


text:
The Ann Arbor teachers union has reached a tentative agreement with Ann Arbor Public Schools, union President Linda Carter said Monday.
The agreement, reached Friday afternoon, was presented to members of the Ann Arbor Education Association Monday morning, Carter said.
The union's 1,109 members will vote on the agreement electronically beginning Tuesday morning.
Determined to achieve a pay freeze from its teachers union, the Board of Education had notified the union that unless it reached a Memorandum of Understanding with the district by 5 p.m. Monday, the union's contract would be terminated as of June 30. The AAEA's contract is set to expire in 2016.
Should the district have terminated its contract with the union, salaries would have automatically been frozen. Items in the union's contract that it has fought for in negotiations would also be eliminated—as well as provisions in the contract that granted teachers certain rights in the layoff process and in filing grievances.
In order to protect their contract, Carter said the union negotiated for a tentative agreement that includes the following items:
- MESSA ABC insurance plan would be offered with a Health Savings Alliance (HSA) paid by the district monthly beginning Jan. 1, 2015. The plan would co-exist with other health insurance plans offered by the district and will add no additional cost to the district, Carter said.
- A calendar committee would meet in July and will have a calendar developed by July 31. The committee would look at the preschool "Early-On" calendar, Carter said.
- Salary freeze and step freeze for all members.
- Teachers would receive 50 percent of the lane advancements they qualify for.
- A problem-solving meeting in March 2015 to discuss finances and the impact of the portion of the teacher's contract that allows the district to terminate it in cases of unforeseen financial crisis.
- Teachers that receive a final evaluation rating of "highly effective" would receive $150 in one-time merit pay before June 30, 2015 as a part of the district's Best Practice incentive grant.
- One sick day would be converted to one personal day.
For teachers in the union, a pay freeze means a continuation of a 3 percent base salary cut and no step increases.
The union had agreed to the salary cut in the district's last budget cycle under the assumption that it would end by July 1.
Carter said union members feel disrespected by the aggressive bargaining tactics taken by the district and school board.
"We feel quite bullied by the administration and the school board," Carter said. "I'm very concerned about the ability to collaborate with the board's team and the school board."
District officials have contended that as the largest portion of its operating budget—about 87 percent—is staff salaries and benefits, it is necessary to ask for freezes from employees as it works to eliminate a $11.47 million budget gap for 2014-15.
The 3 percent pay freeze the teachers union agreed to last year saved the district about $3 million. This year, the district is seeking a wage freeze of all employees for a total savings of $5.1 million.
The Board of Education is set to vote on its $182 million budget for the 2014-15 year 7 p.m. Wednesday at the downtown branch of the Ann Arbor District Library.
Amy Biolchini is the K-12 education reporter for The Ann Arbor News. Reach her at firstname.lastname@example.com, (734) 623-2552 or on Twitter. Find all Washtenaw County K-12 education stories on MLive.com.


text:
Teaching children about how to be successful is not easy, but the movie, Monsters University, teaches children how not to go to college and still achieve success through hard work. I'm not a fan of discouraging college education, but the movie's plot to not make college education the only path to success is a practical lesson. In today's economic climate, I find it refreshing to take the pressure off of children and their parents when it comes to higher education. The two main characters manage to achieve success without college degrees. We find out that their mistakes as young people were all redeemable with hard work. In other words, Monsters University has a big lesson for parents, too: teach your children that they can succeed with hard work, not just a degree.
Teaching children about college
As a former educator, I feel that I've been conditioned to teach children about the importance of a degree. In fact, I've explained to countless young people how mere hard work goes unnoticed without that piece of paper. This is true in the real world many times, but these monsters made me think that teaching children about other paths to success has to be better than brainwashing them about college. What if some children are like Mike and Sullivan (the monsters)?
Teaching children about failure
I saw the movie with my ten year old and she talked all the way home about how the little green ball monster had been an outcast in school. I noticed admiration in her voice about how that rejection in his childhood did not mean Mike failed in life. In fact, all of his struggles fueled his desire to develop other skills. He worked hard to become a successful grown-up monster. Hooray for the little green guy! There are so many children who will identify with Mike's childhood, and when his schoolmates repeatedly made fun of how he didn't "belong here," they were right. Mike wasn't meant to succeed in college, even though he was smart and studied his one eyeball out each night. He was meant to succeed by working hard. As parents, we know this also happens in our lives and careers. We meet that successful boss who never finished college or we admire the former class clown who now owns the pizza place in town after years of working there as a delivery boy. It's a fact that life is a great educator and Monsters University makes that point in a subtle and kid-friendly way.
Teaching children about breaking rules
Monsters University also makes a point about breaking rules with the character of Sullivan and his friendship with Mike. He's the typical lazy student who thinks his family name will coast him through college. From using a borrowed pencil to clean his teeth to stealing a rival school's mascot, Sullivan is not college material. He has raw talent and social skills, but he doesn't take school seriously since he's too busy trying to be a "cool" monster. However, after realizing his failures, Sullivan grows up to work hard and become an amazing "Scarer," too. Breaking rules is not the ideal in children, but lacking to conform has been the source of historical change throughout human history. It always amazes me how quickly parents and educators try to limit that behavior in children. Teaching children about breaking rules and balancing expectations is a great opportunity to talk to children about making good choices.
Teaching children about how to succeed
It's clear that Disney and Pixar want to teach about success after making mistakes. This teaches children to succeed in life with or without school. Today's parents spend time and money teaching children about the importance of education and teaching children about college. Of all the educational games and college courses I had throughout my own education, no one told me that it was okay to mess up in school. Messing up in school was supposed to be the one-way ticket to failure in life. Had I known this was not entirely true, I would have stopped crying in high school when I got a "B" in pre-calculus. Neurosis is certainly not an ingredient in the formula for success, but as a society we make failure a scary monster to fear. Teaching children about failure and how to recover from it is more beneficial and practical in today's economy, too. I like the idea of teaching children about working hard as a path to success even more. Monsters University may be onto something – working hard and not being afraid to fail may be the only way to succeed in the future of our children.


text:
Rendell said the money will help Boscov secure the funds to complete the purchase in bankruptcy court.
Without the money, the department store chain may not be able to survive, he said. It has 39 stores and 9,000 employees in the mid-Atlantic region. Rendell said there are 25 stores and 5,000 employees in the state. Boscov's is based in Reading.
"It would be devastating in the state of Pennsylvania to lose Boscov's," he said.
The family also is receiving $6 million in federal funding from the cities of Scranton and Wilkes-Barre. Rendell said Boscov and other family members are putting in $53 million of their own equity.
Still, the family needs more funds to complete the deal. Rendell said the $35 million, in the form of a Section 108 HUD loan, is contingent on Boscov arranging the bridge financing to consummate the purchase.
A hearing has been scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday on the sale of the Boscov's assets. Boscov's filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Aug. 4 in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware.
Boscov's has stores at the Colonial Park Mall, Camp Hill Shopping Center and the Lebanon Valley Mall. Its Harrisburg Mall store has closed.