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Packing list for Albania
|Packing List for [[{{#explode:Packing list for Albania| |3}} {{#explode:Packing list for Albania| |4}} {{#explode:Packing list for Albania| |5}}]]
|These lists has been compiled by Volunteers serving in [[{{#explode:Packing list for Albania| |3}} {{#explode:Packing list for Albania| |4}} {{#explode:Packing list for Albania| |5}}]] based on their experience. Use it as an informal guide in making your own list, bearing in mind that experience is individual. There is no perfect list!
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See also:
For information see Welcomebooks
This list is based on the experience of Peace Corps Volunteers generally. You will need an assortment of clothing for work, play, and socializing. Keep in mind that Albanians dress stylishly, even if their clothes are worn. Don't expect to replace clothing at the same rate that you might in the United States. You also will need your own money for your purchases. Many Peace Corps Volunteers throughout the world end their service with the same clothing (albeit well-worn) that they started with.
Use the list as an informal guide in making your own list, bearing in mind that experience is individual. There is no perfect list! You obviously cannot bring everything we mention, so consider those items that make the most sense to you personally and professionally. You can always have things sent to you later. Do not bring anything that is so valuable or precious that you would be traumatized if you lost it. Although dry cleaners exist, it is best to avoid bringing clothes that need dry cleaning. As you decide what to bring, keep in mind that you have a 100-pound weight limit on checked baggage. Though clothing and shoes can be expensive, you can get most things you need in Albania if you look hard enough. If you choose to buy clothing, you will probably need to use your own money as your living allowance provides only a very modest amount for clothing.
General Clothing
- Slacks and jeans
- Shirts for summer and fall
- Warm shirts, turtlenecks, and sweaters for winter
- Shorts and T-shirts for relaxing in hot weather
- Long underwear
- Light socks for summer and heavy socks for winter
- Warm hats and gloves
- Sweats or heavy pajamas
- Heavy winter coat
- All-weather coat
- Bathing suit
For Women
Any type of clothing is generally available in-country, but you won't have much to spend on it. If you want to buy clothing in-country on a Peace Corps budget, keep in mind that it will be used. For special purposes, almost anything can be found in the capital, but maybe at European prices.
Everyday basics
- 2 pair stylish yet durable jeans
- A few stylish tops and tees you can mix and match; avoid anything too lowcut
- Semiformal party dress
- Dress or outfit that you could wear to a club
- 2 nice business casual outfits for meetings
- A few extra pairs stockings or pantyhose (even if you don't normally use them)
- Hiking gear you can layer (better off weatherproof)
- Plenty of accessories that you can reconfigure with different outfits, such as inexpensive jewelry and scarves
- Stylish American or Italian handbag
- Backpack
- Reusable shopping bag
- High-quality bras and underwear (hard to find)
- Sports bras (very hard to find)
- Sunglasses
- Bathing suit
- Long underwear
- Warm winter coat (thinner and warmer is better)
- Warm sweater
- Warm winter socks
- Gloves
- One warm winter hat
SCARVES (the locals like to tell you ALL the time that you will get sick if you don't wear one)
For Men
- Collared shirts for work (it is better to dress up than to dress down)
- Underwear
- A few ties
- At least one jacket or suit for special occasions
- Sturdy, thick-soled walking shoes
- Warm, insulated, and sturdy winter boots OR
- Hiking boots that can double as winter boots (very hard to find)
- Running shoes / crosstrainers (very hard to find)
- One good pair of comfortable and durable walking shoes you can also wear in a business casual context (hard to find)
- Pair dressy flats (for women), if you don't care for heels (heels are plentiful in country, even up to size 41)
Personal Hygiene and Toiletry Items
- Any favorite nonprescription medical supplies (those provided by the Peace Corps may not be your favorite brands)
- A three-month supply of any prescription drugs you use, to last until the Peace Corps can order more
- Two pairs of eyeglasses (if you wear them), along with your current prescription
- Contact lens solution (not supplied by the Peace Corps and not readily available in Albania)
- Supply of cosmetics (the quality in Albania is low)
- Tampons
- Wetwipes
- Sturdy travel water bottle (e.g., Nalgene)
- One sharp cooking knife
- A few favorite cooking tools or utensils
- Basic cookbook
- Packaged mixes for your favorite sauces, salad dressings, and soups
- Your favorite spices (Mexican, Chinese, or Indian can be hard to find)
- Tough but flexible luggage (the roller/backpack combos work especially well)
- Large backpacker's backpack
- Money pouch
- Digital camera
- Sunglasses
- A pocketknife (e.g., Swiss Army or Leatherman type) and toolkit
- Duct tape
- Good flashlight with rechargeable batteries and charger
- Miniflashlight (keychain sized)
- Alarm clock (battery powered only)
- Watch
- Compact and warm sleeping bag
- Travel pillow
- Light laptop computer with external battery
- Small MP3 player with extra chargers
- Tablet (better off with Android than apple) with extra chargers
- External battery to charge devices
- Small US - European converter with surge protector
- Journal
- Small gifts
- Tampons
- Wetwipes

subset: commoncrawl


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Behind the Green Door: Meet the Ohisos
June 19, 2013 —
As new media continues to evolve into the digital age, Akira and Ellie Ohiso, publishers of Green Door: A Journal of Responsible Living in the Catskills & Hudson Valley, made a decision to strike out in a new direction with their careers. Transitioning from weekends in the country to making the Catskills their home, the Ohisos took a gamble and began a glossy magazine venture that has led them on a surprising and spiritual journey of discovery. Reconnecting with family and community is just the tip of the iceberg for what this entrepreneurial couple has accomplished along the way. In celebration of Green Door magazine's second anniversary, The River Reporter sat down with Akira and Ellie to find out more about their story.
TRR: Your magazine is gorgeous! How did it come into being? Whose idea was it?
Ellie: It was a joint concept, really. Akira had been (professionally) blogging for several years and I was working in graphic design. We were working hard, had two children, and still having a hard time making ends meet in New York. Soul-searching became an everyday pastime, so we put our heads together and decided to make some life-altering changes.
Akira: As a social worker, I was constantly fighting for a "vulnerable population" in different sectors of the city. We had been visiting Ellie's parents at their weekend home near here since 2004 and not only fell in love with the region, but also recognized that there are similar issues here in the Catskills, and wanted to be a part of the change that people expressed a desire for here in the country. That, combined with our own personal desire for change, drove us to seek a different way of life and be an active part of the community.
TRR: Not only have you set up shop in Liberty, NY, but you also live in the village itself, which has been fighting a difficult reputation for a number of years. Why Liberty?
Ellie: When we decided to create the magazine, we laid out a mission statement which includes our desire for Green Door to be an instrument of change. This town has a rich history and great bones. We both believe that there is a renaissance afoot in and around Liberty, and wanted to show the community that there are many ways that the town can "come back" and we want to be a part of that. Neither of us felt that we could accomplish that goal without being at the heart of it all.


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By Eric Fleming, Contributing Writer
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Major League Baseball fans became depressed at the rash of "cookie cutter" stadiums being built.
The Cincinnati Reds, St. Louis Cardinals, Pittsburgh Pirates and Philadelphia Phillies all played in vast, multipurpose ballparks, designed to host both baseball and football games. The same could be said of college basketball arenas, with many of them built with fan capacity a prime concern, rather than the aesthetics, design or atmosphere.
But never fear, for all of the old-time "barns" -- arenas with real atmosphere -- aren't gone just yet. There are still a handful left, and they are still among the best in the country. All either place fans close to the court, feature interesting architecture, or have funny quirks. Some of these courts host traditional powers, while others don't. Regardless, each is special in its own way and well worth a trip, if not to see the game, then at least to see the arena and to soak up its history.
Here are five of the greatest arenas in which to watch a college basketball game.
Phog Allen Fieldhouse -- University of Kansas
Allen Fieldhouse is a great arena for watching basketball partly because Kansas is almost always a top-tier team. Whether winning Big 8, Big 12 or NCAA titles, the Jayhawks always seem to contend. But Allen Fieldhouse also has some student traditions, which add to the pageantry and atmosphere. When the opposing team's lineup is introduced, Jayhawk fans often pull out copies of the student newspaper in a show of disdain. Throw in the old-style bleachers, the chants of "Rock Chalk Jayhawk" slowly building until tip-off, and you have a home-court advantage that can definitely be intimidating for visiting teams.
The Palestra -- University of Pennsylvania
The Palestra is home of the University of Pennsylvania basketball team. Unlike Kansas, which plays in the powerful Big 12, the Pennsylvania Quakers play in the less-illustrious Ivy League. In spite of this, the Palestra is a shrine when it comes to college basketball. Being in the heart of Philadelphia, it for many years hosted all games played by the Philadelphia 5 (Penn, St. Joseph's, Temple, LaSalle and Villanova), and has hosted more NCAA basketball games than any other American arena. The largest arena in the country when it was built, the Palestra is seen as the birthplace of basketball, a sentiment that doesn't seem too off the wall when one looks at the history made in this small building.
Williams Arena -- University of Minnesota
Another arena for a team that's had its share of ups and downs, Williams Arena is host to the University of Minnesota basketball team. One of the most jarring aspects of the arena is the floor, which is raised almost 2 feet above ground level. This puts the fans at knee level of the players, and also can rattle a first-time visitor to the building known as "The Barn," which is descriptive of this cavernous arena. Williams Arena, from 1950 until 1971, was the largest in the country, with a capacity of more than 18,000. That was lowered when the arena was split into the current configuration of Williams Arena for basketball and Mariucci Arena for hockey. For home Gopher games, almost 15,000 fans can pack into The Barn, giving the Gophers a strong home court advantage, even during the lean years.
McArthur Court -- University of Oregon
McArthur Court -- named after the first University of Oregon student body president, although often called Mac Court or The Pit -- is considered one of the loudest of all the Pac 10 arenas. One of the distinguishing characteristics of McArthur Court is the balcony, which hangs very near the floor, and the seating itself, which places all 9,000 rabid Ducks fans only feet from the action. Unfortunately, NCAA regulations may require a new building for the University of Oregon, as the small capacity threatens the Division I status. If and when McArthur Court hosts its last game, the country will have lost what Sporting News called "the best gym in America."
Cameron Indoor Stadium -- Duke University
Finally, there is Cameron Indoor Stadium. Seen more often than most other arenas across the country, Cameron Indoor Stadium is host to the Duke University Blue Devils, one of the top basketball programs in the country for the past 20 years. The Cameron Crazies, as the student section is known, contribute to the frenzy in the arena with choreographed cheers for the Duke players, chants, and taunts aimed at visiting players. One of the unique characteristics of Cameron Indoor Stadium actually is seen outside the stadium, on a section of ground known as Krzyzewskiville, where students line up in tents, often weeks before big games, in hopes of getting prime seating inside the arena. Cameron Indoor Stadium is truly one of the great arenas in the country.
Other top arenas include Indiana University's Assembly Hall, Oklahoma State's Gallager-Iba Arena, and the Dean Smith Dome at the University of North Carolina. All are great arenas in their own right, and well worth a visit if you find yourself in the neighborhoods.


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Spinach and Olive Pesto
Recipe Summary
Recipe Servings: Makes 1 1/2 cups
Recipe Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Recipe Cook Time: 0 minutes
1 5-ounce bag baby spinach
1/2 cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic, peeled
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
10 black olives, preferably Nicoise pitted
1/3 cup Lucini® Organic Limited Reserve™ Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/4 tsp Kosher salt
Process all the ingredients and half of the olive oil in a food processor. Slowly pour in the remaining oil as the pesto is processing. Blend until the mixture forms a coarse paste; add more oil if you desire a thinner paste. Toss with the pasta of your choice, use as a bruschetta topping or as a crust for roasted sea bass.
Recipe by:
Lucini's work with small regional farmers, celebrated chefs, health and wellness experts continues to provide us with an unmatched selection of ingredients and gourmet recipes to share.


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More Mayors Add Voices For Gun Control
New York City's Michael Bloomberg may have been the most outspoken mayor on gun control since the Friday shooting in Newtown, Conn., left than two dozen people dead, his company is growing as the official association of the nation's mayors has joined the chorus for stronger regulation of the nation's firearms. Bloomberg, U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) President Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter and several others have sent an open letter to President Obama and the Congress calling for stronger gun laws, a reversal of the culture of violence in this country, a commission to examine violence in the nation, and more adequate funding for the mental health system. "Again and again and again, Americans are stunned by senseless acts of violence involving … Continue reading


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Police probe shooting, stabbing in DanbyJune 17,2013By Josh O'Gorman
Staff Writer
Vermont State Police responded Sunday night to a reported shooting and stabbing in Danby.
The incident was first reported around 7:30 p.m. on John Corey Road. According to scanner reports, a man had been shot in the leg and a woman had been stabbed.
Police at the scene declined to comment on the incident, but a police report released early this morning said that a man found at the scene was suffering from "gunshot wounds" and a woman was suffering from "stabbing wounds". Both of them were transported to Rutland Regional Medical Center for treatment.
Scanner reports indicated that police tried to get a medical helicopter to fly to the scene from Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, N.H., or Albany (N.Y.) Medical Center. However, due to weather conditions a helicopter could not fly to the scene.
At least one person injured was taken to Rutland Regional Medical Center by ambulance with a police escort.
John Corey Road is about one mile from Danby Four Corners. Police had yellow crime scene tape across a driveway leading up to the home.
The home is set back about 100 yards from the road.
Officers could be seen investigating and snapping photographs as the sun set.
A constable from Pawlet also responded to the scene as well as firefighting personnel from Danby and emergency responders from Wallingford and Manchester.
A gathering of bystanders watched at the end of the driveway as police investigated.MORE IN This Just InMONTPELIER A new report from a commission that studied the cost, availability and quality of... Full StoryVermont fish hatchery changes focus, looks inland
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All-in-One Maintenance Midlands LtdCertificate of Excellence 2015
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M3 RenovationsCertificate of Excellence 2015
We offer painting and decerting service and a handyman service for all those little jobs you never get round to doing
ATM Heating and Plumbing
From a dripping tap to a full bathroom project ATM Heating and Plumbing is trustworthy and reliable, our main objective is happy and returning customers. Servicing Coventry and Warwickshire we cover all aspects of Plumbing and Heating. Our bathroom renovation services are finished to the highest standards, concealing pipework and working with the customers ideas, we offer Professional advice and no obligation consultations and quotes.
cleanrite cleaning services
Cleanrite is a professional cleaning service provider that offers all your commercial and domestic cleaning, at affordable prices, with sparkling results. We take care of all your office cleaning and supplies, restaurant, clubs, deep cleaning, steam cleaning, kitchen degreasing, house cleaning, carpets and upholstery, oven cleaning, gardening services, joinery, kitchen and bathroom installation, we have been proven to be cost effective, reliable and first class for quality and service.
Atlas building
All general building Internal and external
Crown Build
We are a small building company that is family run, and believe in quality at affordable prices
Rayan Build Ltd
We're committed to architectural and interior design remodeling and to serving you with quality and value. Our team is highly skilled and has years of experience. Most of all: they love planning, designing, and building and care about your project. We bring value to every interaction, and our customers love us. We are providing a comprehensive building and refurbishment services to private and commercial property landlords, shop owners, churches and schools, pub, restaurants. Our Services: Design Interior Design New Build Property Refurbishment Extensions Maintenance Loft Conversions Painting Outside Renovation
Gateway Architectural Design Ltd
We offer a complete package from initial design, preparing all the necessary planning application drawings, building control drawings, structural calculations and design, for planning and building control approvals. We treat each project on an individual merit giving a personal touch as though it is our own project, thereby giving a one to one solution for all. As we look over the project from the start we can iron out any potential build problems in the planning and building control stage, their by minimising the time on site and a smooth operation on site can be pursued. Meeting the project on time, on dead line and on budget. Our team of highly qualified craftsmen, provide a very skilled workmanship and will go the extra mile to satisfy our clients. We go out of our way to make sure the project is completed and all work carried out is met with building control approval. Working alongside the clients providing a fictional design that works well for the end user in every way is our goal.
J.A.G. Property Maintenance
Here at J.A.G. property maintenance we pride ourselves on offering outstanding service to all clients whether it is in your home, office, or investment property. You can rest assured that you are well taken care of. We are specialists in kitchens, bathrooms, decorating, joinery, plumbing and gardening. No job is to small or to large. We are always here to help.
KRM Contractors
KRM Contractors carry out works for various local councils, housing trusts and private clients. We also carry out works on listed buildings, which we have won awards for, large & small office refurbishment projects, propery refurbishments, new build properties and general mainenance contracts. We operate with a three point client contact system, this being the site manager/foreman, our contracts manager and finally one of our directors. The type of works that we carry out can be from as small as a £50.00 job upto a £1.5 million pound contract.
Acclaimed Builders
Shropshire Bathrooms
John Poole Limited.
MJS installations
The company has been trading for over 10 years and we concentrate mainly on bathroom refits, from full or part refits. We also specialise in wet room installations and alterations to bathrooms. We take a pride in our work and strive to make the experience of having your bathroom modernised as pleasant as possible with the least amount of stress. We consider ourselves to be honest, trustworthy and respectful of your home; which we will treat like our own. We provide all the services you will need for the complete project, from plasterers, plumbers, electricians & tilers. Our work is fully guaranteed. We source fittings and materials from local suppliers who we have thoroughly vetted and you can be assured of a top quality product at a reasonable price, we also make sure that our suppliers offer a no-quibble like for like replacement should anything be defective and that they guarantee their products for your peace of mind
Open Interiors LtdCertificate of Excellence 2015
All types of building and construction, extensions, kitchens and bathrooms. Extensive portfolio . Family run business with word of mouth work. We have been building and renovating since 2002. Paul is architect trained and having moved into property development he went onto develop his own portfolio. With his extensive knowledge of buildings from the ground up including working with building control you will be in good hands. Open Interiors Ltd is registered with the Federation of Master Builders, a member of Federation of small Business and registered with MyBuilder website. Jacquie has a Masters degree in Interior design which can be added (at an additional cost) at the end of any potential works. One stop shop for all design and build, usually you have to have separate architect, builder, kitchen supplier etc. Not with us we deal with everything under one roof. If you are interested and have a building project, please do not hesitate to contact us, we have an extensive list of previous clients who will be happy for you to speak to them and you are welcome to view any current projects we have on. Paul Smith on 07815 126 657 OR Jacquie Smith on 0121 354 1089 or 07815 126 493
Paul Ireland
bathrooms, kitchens ,plastering ,plumbing, doors windows
DerbyHandyman offers many local services & Other various UK Wide Services.. Local as per our website: Driving, Painting, decorating, plumbing. gardening, pond cleaning, pond building and so many other services UK wide Services Include but are NOT limited to: Driving, Painting, Pond work, gardening, Regular Contracts ring Jason on 0785 489 7387, whatever you need, we'll do our best to help
Ray Murray
hi i do all types of plumbing from emergancy to arranged jobs, from tap washers to emersion heaters radiaters new bathroom suits new showers etc
Charles Edwards
Kieren Bentley
Zahid Aziz
I thrive on taking direct responsibilty in order to deliver exceptional results,and feel a sense of inherent satisfaction in driving forward an energetic and growing business. I am consistently a good timekeeper, computer literate, hardworking and reliable I have all the skills to perform outstandingly in such a role. I enjoy communicating and interacting, as well as being lively and motivated, willing to go the extra mile. My communication skills have enabled me to work closely with colleagues and members of the public by understanding their needs and requirments.
Michael Cohen
I am 58 years young and have a can do attitude. I have been in the plumbing & heating industry for 42 years. I have had my own business for over 28 years, employing between three and ten staff along with various trade sub contractors. My business is based in a village near the M1 motorway network. We cover all aspects of plumbing, gas, oil, heating, small building works, wet rooms and luxury bathrooms to name a few as the list is not exhaustive. Free quotations and technical advise.
R G T Plumbing & Heating Services
All Plumbing & Heating Services. Gas and water. Lpg mobile homes and natural gas work undertaken
Raffaelo Celella
1st Call Property Maintenance & Refurbishment is a family run company based in Tamworth Staffordshire we offer a complete one stop maintenance and refurbishment service from replacement UPVC windows and doors to bathrooms, kitchens, painting and decorating and much more. We have recently opened a new showroom which is opened to the trade and public offering a wide range of products at very competitive prices. This ranges from taps, sinks, bathroom suits, shower cubicles or just give us a call to see what savings you can make.
Maurice Kiff
Property maintenance service
Oddcolours Ltd
We supply a vast array of bathroom suites, cloakroom suites and bespoke products for customers throughout the UK. Specialising in colours and decorated items, the choices are practically limitless. We offer products by major manufacturers such as Coram, Adamsez, Pegler, Ideal Standard, Pressalit and Armitage Shanks. Whatever your requirements, we're sure we'll be able to quote on your new dream bathroom / makeover. Within 50 miles of Rugby, we offer a £50 on-site consultation, which is fully refundable against ANY purchase over £50 from Oddcolours Ltd. Come and discuss your requirements today and let us turn your dreams into a reality.
M and N Heating and Plumbing LTD
Handitec Home and Garden CareCertificate of Excellence 2015
At Handitec, our handyman service not only finishes off those jobs that just get left but can also cope with the more complex project, so whether a shelf or blind needs hanging or a tap washer replacing I will be only too happy to help. Hanging blinds/pictures/curtains/shelves - Finishing off kitchens & bathrooms - Clearing guttering - Pointing - Brickwork - BBQ's Erecting flatpacks - Gardening - Replacing locks/handles Painting & Decorating - Small plumbing jobs- Joinery - Skirting Boards, Wall & Floor Tiling - Grouting - Laminate & Wood Flooring - Replacment doors/windows/locks/handles hinges/letter plates/glass units, extensions - Guttering Renewal or Clearance - Roofing - Pointing - Brickwork Block Paving - Patios - Painting & Decorating - Stud Work - Plastering - Plumbing - Joinery - Electrical Works - Wall & Floor Tiling - Grouting - Laminate & Wooden Flooring - And Much More All aspects of landscape gardening work is under taken all year round. Including:- Patios, decking, slabbing, block paving, turfing, wooden/concrete fencing, planting, driveways, water features, trellis work, pegolas, gravelling, shed erection, paint spraying and much more.
Wingfield landscapesCertificate of Excellence 2015
SjhCertificate of Excellence 2015
Kitchen door-refurb
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Down to Earth offer their Clients a 100% guarantee, that if we take on your project we commit solely to you. We do not double book or start other projects until yours has been completed. We work on a first come first served basis. This service is rarely offered by other Builders, but we will guarantee our commitment to you. We take care of all the odd jobs around the house that you don't have the time, skills or tools to do. We pride ourselves on being reliable, trustworthy and reasonable. There will be no hard sell or quoting for unnecessary work, Down to Earth is a family run company and we pride ourselves for providing quality work at a reasonable price.
M Francois InstallationsCertificate of Excellence 2015
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Birmingham Bathroom Centre is an established company combining the skills, expertise and experience of qualified trade professionals. We offer both domestic and commercial services. With offices based in Birmingham we are ideally situated to cover work all over the West Midlands. We supply and fit: •wet rooms •walk-in-showers •walk-in-baths •bath replacement shower enclosures •complete luxury bathrooms
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The Schneller sisters' generosity will leave a lasting legacy at North Central College. Their philanthropy, announced following the death of Mary Schneller '33 Rosar in January, when combined with earlier contributions, will provide direct benefits to students for generations to come and create a total endowment of nearly $10 million, among the largest in North Central College's nearly 150-year history.
The three Schneller sisters—Cecelia Schneller '27 Mueller, Adlynn Schneller Balfanz and Mary Schneller '33 Rosar—all lived to be 97 years old in their home town of Sauk City, Wisconsin. Cecelia, the oldest, died in 2003. Adlynn, the middle sister, died in 2006. Mary, the youngest, died January 21, 2009.
The Schneller sisters' legacy will be felt in several areas, all carefully spelled out by the sisters before their deaths. The first is through a newly endowed faculty chair, the College's 10th, the Schneller Sisters Professorship of Leadership, Ethics and Values, honoring a program about which the sisters felt "a particular passion," according to President Harold Wilde, who first met the sisters shortly after becoming president in 1991. "They were remarkable women. I feel privileged to have gotten to know them over the past 18 years."
Thomas D. Cavenagh, JD (right), was named the first holder of the new Schneller Sisters Professorship. He is North Central's director of leadership, ethics and values; professor of business law and conflict resolution; and coordinator of the master of leadership studies program.
"It is fitting that Tom is the first to receive this endowed chair. He's an outstanding teacher with passion and a deep commitment to the program," says Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty R. Devadoss Pandian.
Cavenagh, an attorney and member of North Central's faculty since 1990, says he considers his teaching role an opportunity to positively affect the practice of law by training students in negotiation, mediation and other nonadversarial ways of resolving conflict.
Another portion of the Schneller gift will be used to maintain the Townhomes Residence Hall, which opened in 2000 at 147 S. Loomis St.
The student housing complex will be renamed Schneller Residence Hall in their honor.
A component of their endowment will support the Schneller Sisters Scholarship for needy students at North Central, with preference given to students from Wisconsin. The gift will also provide direct endowment support for the College's departments of economics and religion.
The sisters' extraordinary gifts belie their humble roots. They were born to George and Clara Schneller in the early 1900s and were raised on the family farm near Sauk City, where the Wisconsin River carves a beautiful landscape through gently rolling hills of central Wisconsin. Their maternal grandfather, August Hasheider, was a freshman when North-Western College, later named North Central College, opened its doors in Naperville in 1870.
Mary pursued many interests over her 97 years, but education was always a high priority in her life. She received her bachelor's degree in education from North Central in 1933.
She went on to earn a master's degree at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and taught in Wisconsin elementary and high schools for 38 years until her retirement in 1971. She believed strongly in education and in supporting educational institutions.
"It probably was something of a surprise that Mary received a college education in that era," says Bruce Nortell, North Central's director of planned giving, who got to know the sisters during visits over the past 20 years. "If you came from a farming community and you had a successful farm, you could earn a good living doing that."
Along with her husband, Lt. Colonel Earl Rosar '31, Mary in 1989 funded the bells for Old Main tower. The couple had met at North Central as students but went their separate ways until 1982, when they married and moved to Austin, TX. They returned to Wisconsin in 1993.
Cecelia, or "Ceil," was a homemaker who attended North Central in the 1920s. Adlynn, or "Addy," was also a homemaker and during World War II worked at the Badger Ordnance Plant near the family farm. All three sisters outlived their husbands, and none had any children. "They were three unassuming people who were able to do great things for North Central College," Nortell says.
"The sisters through their philanthropy and their love of North Central College are a great example for alumni to follow," says Rick Spencer, vice president for institutional advancement. "The impact they will have on students here forever is a great inspiration to everyone on campus and for other alumni who care about the College.
North Central NOW Spring 2009


text:
Obama trying to force power bills higher
Tens of millions of Americans are getting what President Barack Obama no doubt hopes is only a reprieve from his drive to force electricity prices skyward. Unless they recognize what is happening, however, Obama will succeed.
During his first four years in office, Obama used the Environmental Protection Agency to launch a plan to shut down coal-fired power plants.
At first, it appeared his timing was good. Utility companies already had closed or announced plans to shutter scores of coal-fired power plants.
Enormous domestic supplies of natural gas – the only viable alternative to coal for power generation – fueled the utilities' decisions. Many announced they would replace coal-fired generating stations with gas units.
During Obama's first term, use of coal to generate power plummeted. When he took office, more than half the power generated in the U.S. came from coal. By mid-2012 the percentage had fallen to 35.4 percent.
That occurred even as thoughtful critics of the president's plan warned coal is, by far, the most economical way of generating electricity. In the 30 states where substantial percentages of power come from coal, the average price of electricity is 8.7 cents per kilowatt hour.
Evidence of coal's role came this week, when it was revealed Wheeling Power customers' bills will decrease by an average of $3 a month. Much of the electricity used here comes from coal-fired generation.
It is different in some places, however. In the 20 states which obtain little of their power from coal, the average price is 12.7 cents per kilowatt hour.
Gas is seen by some as a cheap alternative to coal. In May 2012, the average price of gas for power station use was 3.03 cents per 1,000 cubic feet.
But by this past May, the price had exploded to 4.79 cents. Utilities, attempting to hold customers' bills down, used more coal. In May, the percentage of power generated from that fuel had climbed back to 39.5 percent.
No doubt Obama was aware of those numbers in June, when he revealed a new campaign against coal-fired power plants.
Congress could stop Obama. But with notable exceptions, including Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., nearly all Democrats in both the Senate and House of Representatives back him.
Many of the very Democrats who support Obama serve states where electric bills will soar if the president gets his way.
For now, with many coal-fired generating units set for closure still in operation, utilities can blunt the impact of gas price increases on customers' electric bills. But if Obama is not checked, those units will close – and there will be no option but to produce power at higher-cost gas-fired plants.
Time is short for Obama to be stopped. At some point, lawmakers whose constituents are crying out about higher electric bills will find they have supported their party's president for too long.


text:
|Re: [TowerTalk] SteppIR problem
|K4SAV <firstname.lastname@example.com>
|Sun, 10 Jun 2007 21:53:10 -0500
Don't take that antenna down just yet. It is much more likely that the problem is on the ground. First some basic operational details that may help you understand possible causes. Maybe if I give you enough information you will think of something that you didn't describe and didn't think about as being the problem. This is kinda long, but maybe it will be useful. You probably don't need to know all this, but I don't know which part you do need. It is true that the motors are current driven, and this current regulation will work correctly provided there are no shorts on any of the control wires. (It may work correctly if the short is only across a motor winding.) There is no current limiting or any other control mechanism to save a driver IC should there be a short of one of the control lines to ground or to any other line. Without the controller to radio serial cable there is no direct connection between power supply DC ground and the case, however excessive current can be pulled going thru the capacitance inside the power supply (about 15 nf between AC ground and DC ground) should an output line be shorted to ground. With this serial cable there is a direct connection between DC ground and earth ground so blowing the driver is much easier. A faulty surge suppressor can also be a problem. Usually what happens when there is a short of any kind, the driver IC will blow, and the control box will go off. If the box was on when this happened, the box will go off and may then come back on. If the short occurred while the box was off, when turning the box on, the LEDs will blink one time and the box will shut down. The control box can be made to come back on, but there will no longer be any control of the element that has the problem. Other elements may continue to function. A DC voltage applied by a ground loop in the system should have no effect on the controller if there are no improper loads on the control lines out to the antenna. However if you have a transient suppressor in the system and that loop voltage becomes high enough to break down the transient suppressor, then it may damage the driver because then the driver can dump excessive current thru the transient suppressor (kinda unlikely). The box shutting down is usually the result of power supply overload, causing the voltage to drop to a level which makes the control box electronics malfunction. You should have a 33 volt power supply. If that overload is a result of an improper load on one of the output lines, you can bet that the box now has a dead driver IC. This load on the supply is usually removed when the driver IC blows (so it shouldn't shut down again), however I wouldn't rule this out entirely. It is possible that the driver IC failed in a shorted state and did not burn up traces inside the IC which is more common. The shut down could also be the result of a bad power supply in which case the driver IC may still be good. A cable that is too long or has a too high resistance should not cause the controller to shut down. If the cable is long enough to drop enough voltage such that the driver IC that does the current regulation has no headroom left, and therefore cannot produce current regulation, the element may not move to the proper position. If the length is marginal, it might be intermittent, sometimes moving to the right position, or maybe close. Settings may not be repeatable. This can cause some real head scratching. This should not cause the control box to shut down. A similar condition can result if there is too much capacitance on the control lines, such as may happen when someone uses a surge suppressor that also contains a bypass cap. The current is regulated dynamically by the IC. It pulses the lines by shorting them to the supply, measures the differential current being drawn, and then opens the connection when a preset current limit is exceeded. This is done a relatively fast rate (I forget the frequency). The IC is expecting this current to gradually ramp up as it should do when driving an inductor. If there is a cap on the line, the current will rise very quickly causing the driver to turn off, leaving the motor winding with not enough drive current. This will cause the element not to go to the correct position, or it may only go part way to the correct position. An MOV that has too low of a rating or is shorted (even temporarily) will blow the driver IC. Now that you know a little more about how it works, maybe this will help in diagnosing the problem. Now a few suggestions. 1. When you say that the addition of the fourth element "killed" the antenna, do you mean it didn't work properly, or the controller box shut down? If the control box is shutting down, then the problem can be either the power supply or the controller. Since you have replaced the power supply that leaves the controller. A one-time shut down of the controller usually indicates a controller driver IC failure due to a control line short, but a repeated shut down can indicate some other problem inside the controller. The reason for this may become more obvious after you read the other info below. 2. Disconnect the control box and do an ohmmeter test of all the control lines to make sure there is an open circuit between all control lines and ground, and check for an open between each line and ALL OTHER lines except for the mate for that line. 3. Remove any surge suppressors or other devices you have attached to the control lines. 4. You can check to see if elements are moving by going to the Create/Modify menu and moving only one element at a time and observing that the SWR changes when each element moves. The second director should only cause a small movement in SWR, but any change at all indicates that the element is moving. 5. If you have an oscilloscope, you can verify that the control box is still working. Disconnect the control cable. Each motor is driven with only two wires. Locate the pair used for the element you suspect may have a problem. Put a load on the back of the control box on the lines to be tested. Don't use the full load like the resistance of a motor (it will get hot), all you need is something like 1K ohm between the two lines. With the scope, measure the differential voltage on these lines. You will see some funny looking waveforms with a peak amplitude of twice the supply voltage. (The driver IC automatically switches the polarity on the two lines, so the voltage measured differentially will be twice the supply. ) If you don't have a scope, you can do a primitive test with an AC voltmeter and measure the AC voltage on these lines and compare what you get to other line pairs. If it is significantly different, then it is likely that the driver IC is bad. It will be hard to measure with a voltmeter because the average value changes a lot when you switch bands (peak values are constant). If it doesn't change then you know the driver is definitely bad. CAUTION: DO NOT LET THESE LINES SHORT TO THE CASE. It will blow a driver IC! And don't connect the scope ground lead to either of these lines, connect the scope ground to the controller case. You need two probes. If you sent the original control box back to SteppIR, maybe you could call them and ask if the returned box was good or had a bad driver IC. If it had a bad driver IC, chances are that the one you have now also has a bad IC due to a condition that has not been corrected. Oops, I see you didn't indicate that you changed it or that one was sent one back. Maybe it is time (after you check other stuff). 6. Now let me take a best guess at the problem. Since you have already eliminated the power supply, if you do the tests to make sure you don't have any shorts on the control lines, remove surge suppressors and other devices, and it still shuts down, then it has to be the controller box. Reason: The voltage to the control electronics is dropping too low or it will not operate without a higher than normal input voltage. With no shorts, there should not be an excessive load. So something inside the controller is malfunctioning. Jerry, K4SAV Bill Carnett wrote: >Greetings to all Tower Talkers, > >A very wise man and fellow TT (K7LXC) suggested I post >my challenge here to the group...maybe somebody will >have a new idea that I've not explored. > >Last week we put up a new 4L SteppIR with a 40/30 >dipole. The antenna is approximately 500 feet from >the shack. SteppIR control line is used, continously >without any accessories inserted, running through 3 >inch conduit (not that that makes any difference). >Prior to lifting it in the air I found that a problem >existed. When attempts were made to change bands or >even frequency on the same band, the control box went >dead. Simultaneously, as the box died, the "on" >indicator light on the pwr supply went out. A second >later the pwr light came back on; the led "lights" on >the control box flashed once but the box remained off. > The box could be turned back on, but the same >sequence occurred if a band/freq change was attempted. > > >Immediately all of the wiring and continuity was >checked with the antenna...all ok. Spoke with Jerry >at SteppIR and we proceeded to change first control >box....before I realized the pwr supply was >faltering....no change. > >The next step was to attempt to run each motor >individually and in groups. Each motor ran >individually without problem. Adding the 2nd and 3rd >motor caused no problems....the yagi functioned fine. >The addition of the 4th motor (didn't matter which >sequence), consistently killed the antenna. On >occassion it would all seem to work for a couple of >band changes but never more than 1 or 2 minutes - with >all 4 motors running. So, with up to 3 motors >running...all ok, with all 4, no go. However, this is >a 4 element yagi. After speaking again with Jerry, I >was reassured that the problem was simply a power >supply and all will work fine....thus the long >scheduled antenna raising event went forward as >scheduled. Needless-to-say, the replacement power >supply did not correct the problem. > >Prior to erecting the yagi I extended the elements to >14150 so it can be used as a monobander...but that >will only bring temporary happiness. A power supply >(3rd) was "hand picked" by the SteppIR engineers, >sent, and tested this morning. Basically the same >problem. It did seem to work briefly then shut >down....exactly the same as before. > >So, I'm looking for ideas that have been overlooked. >Yes, I should have listened to my gut, rather than the >"experts" and canceled the raising until all problems >were fixed, but that can't be undone. If this beast >must be lowered, I'm a bit reluctant to put it back up >after this experience. Yes, all antennas have >problems but it would be less $$ to replace it at the >time of lowering rather then taking down, bring the >crane back and forth, etc. > >Sorry for the long-windedness of this but any and all >thoughts are appreciated! > > > >73, Bill > > > > >____________________________________________________________________________________ >Moody friends. Drama queens. Your life? Nope! - their life, your story. Play >Sims Stories at Yahoo! Games. >http://sims.yahoo.com/ >_______________________________________________ > > > >_______________________________________________ >TowerTalk mailing list >email@example.com >http://lists.contesting.com/mailman/listinfo/towertalk > > > _______________________________________________ _______________________________________________ TowerTalk mailing list firstname.lastname@example.com http://lists.contesting.com/mailman/listinfo/towertalk
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text:
A 53-year-old western Iowa man facing a second trial on dozens of sex abuse counts has made a plea deal and been given a suspended prison sentence.
Atlantic radio station KJAN reports that Roger Ericksen, of Lewis, pleaded guilty to one felony count of sexual abuse in the third degree on Tuesday. Prosecutors dropped the 45 other counts of sexual abuse and four other related counts.
Ericksen was immediately sentenced to 10 years in prison, suspended, two years of probation and was ordered to register as a sex offender.
In August a Cass County judge declared a mistrial in the first case against Ericksen, who is accused of assaulting a 14-year-old girl from March 2011 through July 2011.
Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


text:
Educational Development
University Teaching Certificate (UTC) Information Session One
Sep 26/13
Date: Sep 26/13
Time: 13:30 - 14:30
Location: September 26, BA210
Cost: Free
|New this fall, the UTC program was developed for masters and doctoral students (including postdoctoral fellows) with the goal of developing instructional knowledge and skills. While not all Laurier graduates will enter academia, the career paths they choose to pursue will inevitably draw upon the very skills and core competencies UTC seeks to develop. Specifically, UTC aims to provide opportunities for graduate students to:
- develop and practice pedagogical skills and strategies,
- critically examine and reflect upon instructional issues and research on teaching in higher education,
- document learning and capture insights, reflections, and experiences associated with the program,
- develop transferable knowledge and skills in relation to the programs core competencies, and
- network and build community with peers within and across disciplines.
Join us for one of our information sessions to learn more about the University Teaching Certificate (UTC)
To learn more about the UTC program, or to register for the UTC Information Session click on the link below
Contact: Tara Herriot
Email: email@example.com
Phone: 519.884.1970 ext.3507
View all Educational Development events |


text:
{click the links below to purchase}
- Madewell Polka Dot Bra
- The Row Semi-sheer Jersey Top
- Topshop Baseball Cap
- Dannijo Silver-plated Crystal Necklace
- Converse Chuck Taylor's
- Ksubi Cut-off Denim Shorts
- Essie 'Tour de Finance'
- Topshop Triangle Stack Rings
- Cambridge Satchel Company Black Patent Leather
This is what I would wear to run errands, go to class, or work at the coffee shop. Comfy and casual with funky details - what do you think? :)


text:
Car Flags
Sort By:
Going to football games with football shaped car flags adorning your car expresses your team spirit and love of the sport to any pedestrians or drivers who pass you in the street. After all, items like these help people decorate their vehicles and show their loyalty to a team or brand, as well as make a statement. Additionally, these products can capture more attention than other advertising merchandise because the fluttering car flags are eye catching and serve to strengthen your brand identity and attract attention. Imagine the impact of a custom car flags for a traveling executive, proud parent, or new driver. By allowing the recipient to showcase their hobbies, interests, and more on their personal vehicles, the real impact of these powerful items lays far beyond the horizon.


text:
February 1, 2012 —
SUNY Sullivan's interim president, Dr. William Murabito, has announced the introduction of a new Presidential Scholars program aimed at making a college education more accessible for high-achieving students graduating from Sullivan County high schools.
"A combination of financial factors has made it more difficult for high school students to get the college education they both deserve and need," said Murabito. "Our new Presidential Scholars program, which will begin with this fall's incoming class, will cover full tuition and fees for two years at SUNY Sullivan for qualifying candidates."
SUNY Sullivan's Presidential Scholars funds will be awarded to the top 10% of graduates who are residents of Sullivan County who will attend the college full time. Recipients must be in the graduating class preceding the start of their first fall semester of study.
No stop outs in study are permitted, and qualifying students must apply for financial aid to be considered for the award. After the first year, continuation as a Presidential Scholar is based upon the achievement of an overall 3.25 GPA for the first year of study.
Visit www.sunysullivan.edu [2].


text:
« Back
Moment in Time: Stephen Walt (right), discusses U.S. foreign policy at the JFK Jr. Forum "Libya After the No-Fly Zone: Political Change or Civil War?"
"What Role Should the U.S. Play in Middle East?"
Newsletter Article, Belfer Center Newsletter
Summer 2011
Authors: Graham Allison, Director, Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, Harvard Kennedy School, Nicholas Burns, Roy and Barbara Goodman Family Professor of the Practice of Diplomacy and International Relations, Harvard Kennedy School, Ashraf Hegazy, Former Executive Director, The Dubai Initiative, Joseph S. Nye, Harvard University Distinguished Service Professor, Stephen M. Walt, Robert and Renée Belfer Professor of International Affairs; Faculty Chair, International Security Program
Graham Allison, Director of Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs
First, think carefully about American national interests. What do we care about more than something else that we care about? The United States has no vital interest in Libya but does have vital interests in preventing a substantial interruption in the flow of oil from the Persian Gulf. Second, know that the US cannot be, or appear to be, indifferent to an Awakening in which individuals are claiming rights our own revolutionary Constitution declares to be their endowment. Third, analyze comparative histories of analogous revolutions, beginning with Brintons Anatomy of a Revolution. Fourth, recognize that the transition from sclerotic, relatively-stable autocracies to more successful societies is certainly to be tumultuous and to risk many dangers. Fifth, differentiate: each case is different; one size policy does not fit all. Distinct histories, cultures, and societies will produce distinct dynamics. Finally, while attending to the downside, be alert to opportunities presented to advance American interests.
Nicholas Burns, Professor of the Practice of Diplomacy and International Politics
Three months after the start of the extraordinarily moving Arab peoples protests that have swept through North Africa and the Middle East, two initial conclusions are obvious. First, this is the most significant movement for reform in the modern history of the Arab world. Second, fifty years of American policy that assumed that backing authoritarian rule was the best way to achieve stability and American interests is now in question.
How should the U.S. react to these events? There are opportunities and dangers alike for the United States in what is still the most vital region of U.S. engagement worldwide. I believe President Obama has maneuvered in a largely skillful way to advance American policy since the demonstrations began in Tunisia in mid-January. My image of him is a leader carefully juggling two conflicting and competing interests up on a high wire, without a net beneath him, and in the full glare of the international spotlight.
But, the U.S. will also have to act to protect its central military, economic and counter-terrorist interests in the Gulf, especially in Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Bahrain. While we should support long-term reform in that region, we should be careful to also ensure that our friends in those countries survive the crisis and contintue to help us with the vital interests that we must protectblocking the advance of Iranian power in the region, countering radical terrorist groups, helping Iraq to survive as a nascent democracy itself and ensuring the survival of the Egypt-Israel peace treaty.
In short, as Americans watch these dramatic events unfold in the Middle East, we must continue to balance our many objectiveshope for real change but also for stability in this most important region of the world.
Ashraf Hegazy, Dubai Initiative Executive Director
U.S. policymakers are facing two main challenges in Arab countries: the perception of having propped up oppressive regimes, placing U.S. and Israeli priorities ahead of the needs of local populations; and the rise of unfriendly political parties, especially Islamist ones, through the democratic process.
However, Arabs admire U.S. democratic values and are attempting to adopt them as part of their nascent democracies. To address the challenges by building on that admiration, the U.S. should:
- Adopt a new paradigm for developing regional allies by prioritizing American interests that overlap with those of Arab publics, as opposed to those of autocratic regimes. Using mutually beneficial policies would enhance the U.S.s value to the region, repair its image there, and improve prospects for future Arab-U.S. collaboration.
- Continue emphasizing strong support for the democratic aspirations and movements by Arab publics without supporting specific candidates or political parties. Anyone seen as an ally of the U.S. will be DOA on the electoral scene.
- Publicly commit to working with all peaceful, elected parties, including the Muslim Brotherhood. Their policies may not be aligned with those of the U.S., but including them in the political process is key to their moderation.
- Maintain a consistent policy of strongly criticizing crackdowns on demonstrators across the region, including those by ally regimes.
- Transfer some military aid (in Egypt, for example) to civil society programs.
Joseph S. Nye, Harvard University Distinguished Service Professor
While there is a wave of contagion sweeping the region, the so-called Arab Spring plays out differently in each country, and that has policy implications. In Egypt and Tunisia, for example, there is some hope that assistance can help create conditions for democratic change; in Saudi Arabia, those conditions are not present and we should avoid doing anything that destabilizes the country. We should beware of thinking that one size fits all.
Stephen Walt, Robert and Renée Belfer Professor of International Affairs
The upheavals that have swept the Arab world have not altered U.S. interests in the region. U.S. strategic interests include 1) reliable access to energy supplies, 2) counter-terrorism, and 3) preventing the spread of weapons of mass destruction. The United States also has a moral commitment to Israels security and favors the spread of democracy and human rights.
It is the policies used to advance these interests that need to be changed. In the past, the United States relied on Arab governments whose policies did not reflect their citizens opinions. In the future, most Arab governments will be more responsive to popular sentiment. If the United States wants the policies of Arab governments to be congenial to its interests, it will have to make its own policies more congenial to Arab peoples, not just Arab rulers.
This approach would be a major departure from past U.S. policy, but wise statecraft anticipates and exploits the tides of history, instead of engaging in a futile struggle to hold them back.
For more information about this publication please contact the Belfer Center Communications Office at 617-495-9858.
For Academic Citation:


text: Thomas Hurka is one of my favorite moral philosophers. His essay on Nietzsche found in the compilation Nietzsche and Morality is meaty and challenging both as a stark reading of Nietzsche and as a strong perfectionist view of ethics, developed on Nietzsche's behalf. I've also read most of his first book, Perfectionism, which was excellent. [Read More…]


text:
School voucher expansion would not immediately affect La Crosse
It's a change that could have a huge impact on Wisconsin public schools.
Gov. Scott Walker has announced he wants to expand the state's school voucher program as part of the budget he's introducing to the legislature Wednesday.
School vouchers allow students in under-performing school districts to use state money to pay for a private school education.
"Public education, which is a responsibility of the state, is really being redefined right before our eyes," said La Crosse Schools Superintendent Randy Nelson.
The changes in Walker's proposed budget would expand the state's school voucher program from two school districts to nine.
La Crosse would not be one of them.
The expansion would extend to districts that have at least 4,000 students and have at least two schools that receive D or F grades on state report cards.
La Crosse doesn't have any Ds or Fs; it has mostly Cs. But with its 6,714 students, it would qualify if two of those C schools slipped down a grade.
That could have a big financial impact on public schools.
"If they were to take the voucher from the state of Wisconsin, the $6,500 voucher, they'll be able to take that to the private institution and then the state will charge us $1,800 for every student who does that," said Randy Nelson.
Private schools like Aquinas Catholic Schools would then have to decide whether they want to accept those vouchers.
Aquinas president Kurt Nelson, Ph.D. said while he still has questions about the details, vouchers could extend the privilege of school choice to families with more moderate incomes.
"Families who are well off already have school choice. They can either move to a district that has better schools or they can choose to pay tuition. What we're really talking about with these programs are, how do we provide families with more modest means those same level of choices in their child's education?" said Kurt Nelson.
A major concern for public schools is whether private schools would be held to the same standards of accountability.
Kurt Nelson said it's a big question for him as well. He said the Catholic schools would likely have to use the same assessment test as the public schools, and he doesn't like those tests as much as the assessments his schools currently use.
If Walker's proposed expansion of the school voucher program goes through, it will be capped at 500 students statewide for fiscal year 2014. The cap would double by the following year to 1,000 students.
Copyright 2013 by WKBT News8000. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


text:
"G'day to all the good folk at Catholic Answers. Words cannot express the invaluable service you provide to the world. Your faith tracts are fantastic and should be a must-read. Catholics need to be equipped with the history and the truth."
~ Douglas, Mittagong, Australia
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"Those who know me also know that born a Catholic, the son of Christian parents, I live and I mean to die a Catholic."
~ Michel Chevreul, chemist, physicist; member French Academy of Sciences; Legion of Honor, Grand Cross


text:
"I found Catholic Answers Live, and was engaged immediately. 'Hooked' is the right word. I was astounded at the things I had mis-learned. God bless you and I hope you never go off the air."
"Who does not see that knowledge precedes faith? Nobody believes unless he knows what to believe."


text:
Then, he saw his best friend talking to a recruiter from the Marine Corps.
"I had no clue what the Marine Corps was about," Bumper said. I really didn't know what I was going to do."
He saw the recruiter again, and in just three weeks, he knew where his next chapter would take place.
Bumper's mother, Lupita Cano, then got a knock on the door.
"(The recruiter) just came to the house, and that's when I knew that he was going to the Marines, that I can remember," Cano said. "That just surprised me, 'Where did this come from?' And that's when he signed up. It broke my heart."
What came as a shock to Bumper's entire family was a new challenge for him.
"I was scared of the unknown," Bumper said, "but I was just ready to try something new."
The unknown that Bumper spoke of was what worried his family the most.
"The first two weeks that he left, I used to sleep with his shirt under my pillow and cry," Cano said. "I would cry every night."
Leaving for the Marines
On Dec. 28, 1994, he entered Recruit Training in San Diego, and graduated on March 17, 1995.
He then began his ascension in the ranks. By Aug. 1, 1995, Bumper was assigned to HQBN 3rd Marine Division, Communication Company Okinawa, Japan.
"When I got stationed in Okinawa, it was a whole lot different," Bumper said. "Being away from the United States, and, on top of that, absorbing the new culture, was pretty cool. You're missing home, but it's cool starting something else."
From Okinawa, over the years, his travels took him to Korea, Jacksonville, N.C., and Tampa, Fla.
With his travels came his continued ascension in rank. But to Bumper, he wasn't doing anything different.
"I'm no crazy, gung-ho guy. All I ever did, to be honest with you, whatever the Marine Corps asked me to do, I always did it," Bumper said. "Whatever it was, I did everything that I could to the best of my ability; the way I would want somebody to do it for me if I was having somebody do whatever they needed me to do.
"That comes from Beeville and working."
Going to Iraq
In 2003, now a staff sergeant reporting to the 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, Bumper was set to face his toughest task yet: being deployed to Iraq for the initial push.
"Iraq, the first time, you really think about what's going on every day," Bumper said. "You think about your family and what you're missing and stuff and that kind of gives you the drive, like 'I gotta get through this day.'"
Bumper was there from January 2003 until September-October that same year.
Just like his announcement of joining the Marine Corps, his deployment once again put his mother into a state of shock and worry.
"Here we are at home and you cover your kids at nighttime," Cano said. "Those are things that I thought about when he was over there. One time he called, 'Mom, it's so cold.' How could I go over there and cover him? I couldn't.
"I couldn't."
By the time he got back, the time he could spend with his family was the greatest gift to him.
"My wife and kids, you get to hold them and tell them you love them face to face, not over the phone, not through a letter," Bumper said.
Brief stay home
While Bumper was able to stay at home for 10 months, he was still going through training as well. Certain prerequisites needed to be crossed off before he was deployed again.
While he may have been home, he was still training, seeing his house in the distance, for the next deployment.
"In the eight months, nine months you're home with your family, you're actually only physically home three months, four months," Bumper said. "That's the part that people don't see. They don't see us going to the field two or three weeks at a time just to go. 'Hey, we're not coming home for three weeks.' 'Why?' "Because we got to train.'
Back to Iraq
Following the 10-month stay home after the initial push, he found himself back in Iraq.
"I was back in Iraq again, in the heart of the fight," Bumper said. "That time, I would say, was probably the roughest eight months of my Marine Corps career. It was some serious fighting going on."
From July 2004 to March 2005, Bumper experienced the most grueling stage of his Marine Corps career.
"During the fighting in Ramadi, basically the capital city of the Al Anbar province, which holds Fallujah to Crete, all of the bad places, we did some heavy fighting there," Bumper said. "By the grace of God, I made it home to my family once again."
Making it home in one piece was all he and his family could ever ask for.
"He said he just couldn't wait to touch the ground," said his sister Marissa Gomez. "Six deployments and he came back in one piece."
Texas bound
Following completion of deployment, his ascension continued, and by December 2011, he was named operations chief for the detachment at the San Antonio Military Medical Center. He was able to experience working with Wounded Warriors.
It was the most rewarding experience of his whole career.
"You're looking at a 20- to 21-year-old kid staring at you in the face, telling you, 'Hey, man, can you take time out of your day to come watch me take my first steps?'" Bumper said. "'My last injury (was) in Afghanistan, where I lost both of my legs.' To see them put their prosthetics on and see their face, and see the joy, see the pain and all that, and to see them take their first steps...
"There's no feeling like it."
Motivating his fellow brothers and watching them strive to take their steps was an unbelievable feeling for him.
"He changed a lot of those guys' lives," Cano said.
Closing the chapter
On Aug. 8, after giving his life to the Marine Corps for more than 20 years, he officially announced his retirement, in a service held in San Antonio.
"I turned around to see all these people that were there," Cano said. "My son had touched their lives, over these 20 years. That was very touching to me."
The loving support of his family drove him each and every day, especially from his wife of 14 years, Maria, who will be seeing him much more often now.
"My wife has taken the brunt of all my deployments," Bumper said. "She held the fort down with six, sometimes seven kids at home and having a full-time job. That's the hard part. That's the part people don't see.
"I give my wife all the respect in the world."
The worrying has finally gone away.
"We're just glad to have him back and not worry about deployments," Marissa said. "With everything that's going on right now, it's just a scary thought. I'm glad that he's done his part; he's served our country and made sacrifices."
Now, he's looking for an oil field job in San Antonio, where he continues to live.
That chapter has officially closed. Bumper Gomez is now Master Sgt. Gomez.
"I still can't believe it's been 20 years," his mother said. "When we went to the retirement, I said, 'I remember as if it were yesterday me and my father dropping you off, and here I'm coming today to see you celebrate your 20 years of service.' It was just so fast.
"Well, now it's fast."
Mackey Torres is the regional editor at the Bee-Picayune and can be reached at 343-5219, or at email@example.com.


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Note: Remedy revised Aug. 6, 2013
1 of 3 photos
A Royal Prestige-brand 9-ply "Thermal Wall" pot
2 of 3 photos
A Royal Prestige-brand 9-ply "Thermal Wall" skillet
3 of 3 photos
Recalled pots and pans have "Thermal Wall" and "9-Ply" on the bottom.
Royal Prestige 9-Ply Thermal Wall Cookware
The cookware can collapse, crimp or severely deform when exposed to heat, posing a burn and fire hazard to the consumer and nearby property.
Hy Cite Enterprises at (800) 609-9577 from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. CT Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT on Fridays, and 8 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. CT on Saturdays or at www.royalprestige.com or www.hycite.com and go to the Recall Information link.
About 1.7 million
This recall involves stainless steel 9-ply "Thermal Wall" pans sold under the "Royal Prestige" brand name. The products were sold individually and in sets. The following cookware is included in this recall:
Recalled pots and pans have a seal including "Thermal Wall" and "9-Ply" imprinted on the bottom of the pot or pan.
The company is aware of 1,136 reports of cookware collapsing, crimping or deforming, including one report of consumers getting spattered with hot oil when the pan collapsed inward while cooking.
Consumers should stop using the cookware immediately and contact Hy Cite for instructions for the return of recalled pans and for receiving a free replacement pan with a supplemental credit voucher for additional products.
Independent distributors of Hy Cite Enterprises sold this product through door-to-door sales for between $250 to $800 for individual products and from $800 and $3,500 for sets.
Hy Cite Enterprises LLC, of Madison, Wis.
Meyer Europe, SRL, of Verdellino, Italy
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with the use of
thousands of types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the
nation more than $1 trillion annually. CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical or
mechanical hazard. CPSC's work to help ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters and household
chemicals -– contributed to a decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 40 years.
Federal law bars any person from selling products subject to a publicly-announced voluntary recall by a manufacturer or a mandatory recall ordered by the
To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury go online to www.SaferProducts.gov or call CPSC's Hotline at 800-638-2772 or teletypewriter at
301-595-7054 for the hearing impaired. Consumers can obtain news release and recall information at www.cpsc.gov, on Twitter @USCPSC or by subscribing
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Where there's smoke, there's dog foodDecember 10,2012
'Tis the season and Betsy's been bakin' up some real "storms" lately. The old stove's working pretty well, so says the apple pie I ended Thanksgiving day with!
There was a time, though, last summer when that same stove had us stumped. She was about to bake something good but when she ignited the oven, smoke poured out like a houseafire. Betsy, immaculate housekeeper that she is, immediately blamed herself for keeping a dirty oven. I, passionate eater that I am, got busy stripping the oven of shelves to get to the bottom of the problem.
Being a farmer, I'm used to simple mechanical puzzles so when the bottom panel presented one, I assured Betsy that I'd figure it out after a fashion. A half hour of prodding and prying, though, brought nothing but thorough frustration.
There were two screws in the oven's back recesses that had no screwdriver slots or wrench hexes, just round heads. They obviously held the panel in and had to be unscrewed, but how?
"I can't believe they'd build a stove this way" I kept saying, continuing to rack my brain. Betsy, quite used to her husband's "Mr. Fixit" style after 35 years of marriage, sensed that I was about to start throwing wrenches through windows. "I'm going to call Biff Moulton," she said.
Dean (Biff) Moulton spent a big part of his life as "The Appliance Guy" until a severe health issue threw a monkey wrench into the home fix-it business. His recovery brought two revelations: that life is too short to not "follow your bliss," and that he'd had enough of maimed Maytags and flawed Frigidaires. Biff parked the appliance van and walked back to the fresh air of his mini-farm, "Til Tomorrow," up on Moretown Mountain. There he would raise chickens and grow gardens the way he'd always dreamed of.
Betsy dialed his number, desperate enough to bother a busy man with a petty problem. "Sure, I'll talk to him...put him on" says Biff.
Says I, "Gosh darned #%*&! thing I can't b'lieve they'd build it this way, it all of sudden went up in smoke and we're really hurtin' without it!"
In a "now hold your horses, slow down" sort of way, he asked me what exactly was wrong.
Collecting myself, I told him about the smoke problem, the impossible screws, and how I doubted a legitimate company would build a stove this way.
"Oh yes they will," he shot back quicker'n spatterin' grease. "They want you to give up on the thing and buy a new one!"
Then he muttered something about "those damned mice" and asked me if I had a Dremel tool. I said yes to the Dremel tool but wondered what in the world mice had to do with it.
"Well, it's like this," Biff said. "What you got t'do is buy several grinding discs for the Dremel 'cause you'll use'em all. Stick your head in the oven like you're, y'know, tryin' to end it all, and grind the heads off those screws. That'll allow you t' lift off the panel and then what you'll find is a charred pile of dog food that the mice have brought in."
I thanked him and got right to work, totally accepting his "been through this before" attitude, but somehow doubting that he could pinpoint my problem right down to the "nearest dog food."
Three grinding discs and 10 minutes later, though, the screw heads were off and when I lifted the panel out of place there, right in the middle of the oven bottom was a pile of thoroughly charred dog food. "Guy's not only a genius, but he's a clairvoyant t' boot!" I hollered to Betsy!
Last summer, Betsy and I attended Biff's daughter's wedding over at Til Tomorrow Farm. It was a beautiful sunny day and, contrary to the breakdowns and snafus of his previous vocation, Biff's gardens were picture perfect. Nary a weed in sight, neat paths led past raised beds literally spilling with the "fruits" of his labors. It was easy to see that this guy's genius went well beyond the "technical." We found it wonderful that his life path had taken him from bread-winning to bread-growing and happiness.
Recently Biff has been helping us in our sugar woods, repairing plastic maple tubing. Out there, he's finding lots of breakdowns and, yes, results of another troublesome rodent, the squirrel. Squirrels and their incessant need to chew are wreaking havoc on those miles of plastic tubing, but Biff Moulton is the perfect guy to get behind it.
"I love it out in your woods," he recently said, and we're not surprised. As long as there are no washing machines or refrigerators out there, it's perfect. Whether it's Til Tomorrow Farm or Morse Farm, for Biff Moulton, "tomorrow" is here.MORE IN CommentarySure, you can buy your uncle a necktie that he wont wear, or your niece an Amazon certificate... Full StoryFor the past month, I have been watching close friends and family descending into a pit of... Full StoryAdjusting to snow, sleet and cold after spending over a month in an exponentially warmer climate ... Full Story
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Biden Time
It's official. Joe Biden will be Barack Obama's running mate for the 2008 presidential election. I'm okay with it. Really. I am.
I only hope that this duo will be reminiscent of the one-two punch of Schilling and Johnson who took it all the way in 2001.
I only hope that this duo will look more like Gehrig and Ruth on the field rather than Gehrig and Ruth off the field.
I only hope that this duo has enough to beat the critics and become the mighty force that Big Papi and Manny Ramirez became in Boston.
Will Biden being Biden become the hottest new catchphrase of 2008? While my hopes against that happening remain high, I would be a liar if I didn't admit my anxiety that Biden may demand a trade at the very last minute.
Hold on to your seats, folks, dear readers, my fellow US Americans…
We're just gettin' started.
Don't hate me 'cuz I'm right.
5 Comments
That's an *ahem* akward photo of Manny and Ortiz. Anyway, on the subject of the post, I can tolerate it, but I wouldn't go as far as to say I was okay with Barack taking Biden. A mistake to say the least in my opinion.
Is that quote from the Primary debate a case of him Biden the hand that feeds him?
Soon it will be all over and we will not have to debate it any longer. Lets see what happens then????
Neal — Yes, very awkward photo. Surprised I'd never seen it before. Ah, the Truth comes out…
Russell — It may very well be a case of 'biden the hand that feeds him'. We'll see.
Mr. Lung — Shouldn't you be watching the DNC Convention?


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Executive Chef Ryan Poli, Butter, Chicago Yield: 4 servings. 1 Tbsp. cumin seed 1 Tbsp. coriander 1 Tbsp. black pepper 1 Tbsp. paprika 1 tsp. cayenne pepper (all ground and mixed) 8 lamb chops as needed, olive oil to taste, salt and pepper Add spices to small sautè pan over medium heat and toast them, about 3 minutes or until spices have a stronger aroma and flavor. Place toasted spices into a mixing bowl and reserve until needed. Season lamb chops with salt, then dredge chops into spice ...
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20. Maroon 5 - Daylight
XXX performs during the 2012 F1 Singapore on September 22, 2012 in Singapore.
19. Drake - Started From The Bottom
LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 06: Drake poses in the press room during the 2012 MTV Video Music Awards at Staples Center on September 6, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)
18. Justin Timberlake - Mirrors
NEW YORK, NY - MARCH 11: Justin Timberlake visits "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon" at Rockefeller Center on March 11, 2013 in New York City. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images)
17. Swedish House Mafia - Don't You Worry Child
NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 16: (FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY) DJ's Axwell, Steve Angello and Sebastian Ingrosso of Swedish House Mafia perform at Madison Square Garden on December 16, 2011 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)
16. Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Can't Hold Us
CULVER CITY, CA - APRIL 14: Rapper Macklemore performs onstage during the 2013 MTV Movie Awards at Sony Pictures Studios on April 14, 2013 in Culver City, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
15. Icona Pop - I Love It
NEW YORK, NY - SEPTEMBER 06: Singers Caroline Hjelt (L) and Aino Jawo of the musical group Icona Pop attend the Nicholas K Spring 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at The Studio at Lincoln Center on September 6, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week)
14. Justin Bieber & Will.I.Am - #thatpower
at The Staples Center on October 2, 2012 in Los Angeles, California.
13. The Lumineers - Ho Hey
NASHVILLE, TN - DECEMBER 05: Wesley Schultz, Neyla Pekarek, and Jeremiah Fraites of The Lumineers speak onstage at The GRAMMY Nominations Concert Live!! held at Bridgestone Arena on December 5, 2012 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
12. Taylor Swift - 22
arrives at the 48th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on April 7, 2013 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
11. Rihanna - Pour It Up
LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 7: Recording artist Rihanna attends a game between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on April 7, 2013 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2013 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)
10. Will.I.Am & Britney Spears - Scream & Shout
at a taping of We Will Always Love You: A GRAMMY Salute To Whitney Houston on October 11, 2012 at the Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles, California. The show airs November 16, 2012.
9. Krewella - Alive
Festival goers enjoy a set by a dubstep DJ at the "Lounge on the Farm" festival near Canterbury in Kent, on July 8, 2011. Five years ago, dubstep was just another fresh but obscure strain of dance music, limited almost exclusively to a handful of nightclubs in south London. Today it is taking over dancefloors worldwide. Born out of drum'n'bass and the 2-step UK garage movement which propelled Craig David to fame, dubstep completed its journey from quirky curiosity to commercial success story earlier this month (eds: earlier in July) when DJ Fresh's "Louder" hit the top of the UK singles chart. AFP PHOTO/Leon Neal TO GO WITH AFP STORY BY JAMES PHEBY *BRITAIN-ENT-MUSIC-DUBSTEP* (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images)
8. Demi Lovato - Heart Attack
LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 14: Recording artist Demi Lovato attends the Topshop Topman LA Grand Opening at The Grove on February 14, 2013 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)
7. P!nk - Just Give Me A Reason
attends the St. John's Health Center's Power Of Pink benefiting The Margie Petersen Breast Center at Sony Studios on November 12, 2012 in Los Angeles, California.
6. Calvin Harris & Florence Welch - Sweet Nothing
LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 06: DJ Calvin Harris poses in the press room during the 2012 MTV Video Music Awards at Staples Center on September 6, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)
5. Pitbull & Christina Aguilera - Feel This Moment
<> on August 9, 2012 in Los Angeles, California.
4. Bruno Mars - When I Was Your Man
performs onstage at the 54th Annual GRAMMY Awards held at Staples Center on February 12, 2012 in Los Angeles, California.
3. Rihanna - Stay
Singer Rihanna performs live on stage as part of her 777 tour at The Forum on November 19, 2012 in London, England.
2. Justin Timberlake - Suit & Tie
AUSTIN, TX - MARCH 16: Justin Timberlake performs at Myspace Secret Show @ SXSW on March 16, 2013 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Myspace)
1. Macklemore - Thrift Shop
SEATTLE - APRIL 08: Seattle recording artist Macklemore performs a tribute to Mariners broadcaster Dave Niehaus, who passed away last November, prior to the Mariners' home opener against the Cleveland Indians at Safeco Field on April 8, 2011 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)
Categories: Features Music Top 20 JAMZ


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I'm no Joe Torre but everyone has a story
Wow how time flies, I was looking at the old blog entry count and noticed that this entry is number 199 for the Rockpile Rant.
Notice: It looks like one of my buddies who was going to Tucson with us has to cancel. If your interested in this trip contact me. As I've said before there would be an interview process (to guage your coolness), but we're not too picky.
The travel dates are from Feb 23-March 4.
Chapter 1: A Ranter is born.
I'm going to tell you how the Rockpile Ranter was born. My alter ego is a combination of several things. I'll start with the Ranter bit. For most of my life I have had to be subordinate to someone who at some point took their power to far or was just a complete jackass with their authority.
I always felt compelled to bottle up what I wanted to say or how I felt, either out of respect or position. It's not that I was afraid to say what was on my mind, I kept my mouth shut because it was usually the smart thing to do at the time.
Then when I reached the point when I was ready to "speak my mind", I didn't because I didn't want to hurt anyone. Truth be told, the one who was hurting was myself.
Every person and situation is unique and before I became a blogger, I would vent on friends and family. Not the full out explode in your face vents, but smaller more manageable vents. What I would call " a short little rant".
They would often start out like: "Does this piss you off too?". Then I'd go on from there, but only ranting on one topic and making it quick. Usually people would agree with me. Whether they did or didn't, a conversation of some sort would usually ensue.
This his how I viewed it, I was being friendly to another human by striking up a conversation, and at the same time I was able vent off something that had been bothering me.
I don't vent much on people directly anymore, I don't need to.
I have "The Rant" now and I have the ability to immediately write about something that bothers me or moves me, impresses me or depresses, stimulates my brain or leaves me writhing in pain, touches my soul or leaves me down in a hole.
I can release it in word format, then after I've heard a group opinion on the subject…Be done with it and "Keep on Truckin".
"You got to keep on rolling while you can, eventually we all run out of hill" Official Ranter Quote.
The Rockpile part of the blog name is simpler. I usually purchase Rockpile tickets, see that's pretty simple.
Here's how this all ties in together:
It was the third week in September 2007 and the Rockies were "HOT", and still not getting any National love or attention. This really frustrated me and some other fans that I know.
It was at that point I knew I had to do something. I didn't know exactly what or how, but I felt somehow I had to get The Rockies some National love.
Fast forward to Rockies Spring Training 2008.
When I was in Tucson for spring training last year I only had five days off. Two of those days were spent driving there and back. When I arrived in Tucson I managed to catch one practice, but it was only the AAA players. I saw two games in two days both of them at Hi Corbett Field. Rockies won one and lost one.
Remember now, this was the spring training after the Rockies had made it to the World Series.
I guess I thought that right after a World Series appearance spring training games would be sold out. This was not the case at all, both games had more empty seats than not.
I sat there in my nearly empty row and couldn't believe the Rockies had done so much, and went so far and still were getting minimal fan love and National exposure.
As I pondered what to do on that sunny afternoon in March wearing my newly purchased big green floppy hat (it was recommended to me by a local for sun block), and my previously purchased Todd Helton World Series jersey an idea popped into my head.
I had previously been interested in starting a blog about my own daily rants, so I thought to myself, why not write a blog about the Rockies and incorporate my "attitude" into it.
I needed a name. A name that represented me and my team. I tossed around blogs name for the entire drive back to Denver with no luck.
For a few years I had been a regular reader of Zack Hample's blog "The Baseball Collector" (still am). This dudes obsessed with snagging baseballs at batting practice and catching live game baseballs.
Anyways I was tired of reading about his success and I had decided after we lost the World Series that I would try to arrive early for batting practice. I snagged a baseball at my first batting practice and now I NEVER miss it. To me it's as much a part of the game as eating peanuts, the seventh inning stretch, or standing in line to take a whiz.
I experimented with a couple of blogging formats before I came across MLBlogs.com. I was sitting in front of my computer stuck at the point where I had to come up with a blog name for this blog. I started to think of the Rockies Rockpile and knew that word had to be part of it's name.
A few of the blog names I tossed around were:
Rockpile Style, Rockpile Ralph, D's Rockpile Report, DR-ockpile, Rock-n-Roll Pile, and A Rock-n-Pile. All of those names are winners in their own right, but didn't quite convey the message I was trying to get out there.
Then I thought,"The Rockpile Rambler", I dismissed that one because I'm more of a Ranter than a Rambler. Yeah, Rockpile Rant, I typed it in and have owned it and a few variations of it since.
Chapter 2: It's up to you.
So now you know where I came from and you already know where I'm heading. I'm going for number one spot. I don't want to "OWN" it, I just want to feel it up a little bit…D
5 Comments
D — You are well on your way to #1! I too was looking for a place to rant about my favorite sport – I live in a household of all males and NONE of them have a passion for the game like I do. MLBlogs is a great place for us all! We can rant, talk, compare and shed tears (of joy or sadness!) together. Others might not get us – but everyone here does! Happy Blogging & I hope you find another member for your MBU squad!
Hey D,
I'm glad you chose MLBlogs as your forum. I look forward to a daily dose of RPR. It's a different perspective on baseball compared to most of the others (and by different I mean off the beaten path different, not weird different).
(BTW, how cute were you?!)
D- Glad to know where the start of the Rockpile began. I never explored any other blogging site, just stumbled upon this one. I like this because it gives you the top visited blogs and gives you something to work for. I'm sure we'll see you at the number one spot before we know it, and then everyone will be like, "The Rockies? Who are they?" And then they'll know. And hopefully Tulowitzki will take that card you gave him and see what the Rockpile Rant is all about.
Very nice story about the background here. It's hard to choose good names, but yours is one of the most creative! Nice job on snagging all the balls!!
JULIA-I agree, it's nice to be among others who get us.
R-LUV-Looking forward to offering perspective on a game I just watched🙂
EMILY-This place rocks, I have saved all the screenshots of when the Rockpile Rant was the "Featured Blog" and when my picture made the front page next to Joe Torre.
ELIZABETH-Thanks, you should try it. Be careful though, it can be addictive. Props to your innovative blog name…D


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Turkey vultures: a feathered fascination
July 5, 2012 —
While few would contend that the turkey vulture is attractive, most would probably admit that in flight, it is indeed beautiful and that it most definitely has some unique—and somewhat offensive—characteristics.
In flight, the wings form the appearance of a "V," and the birds draft on thermals, rocking from side to side. With a wingspan of roughly six feet, the dark brown bird with silvery underside paints a surprisingly fluid image in the air. Flight is largely characterized by soaring, which can go on for hours as they ride pockets of rising warm air, called thermals. The large birds can reach drafting speeds of up to 60 miles per hour as they crest the top of a thermal, then gradually lose altitude until they locate another thermal and commence the sequence again.
Much to our benefit, given the frequency of road-killed animals in rural regions like the Upper Delaware, turkey vultures eat carrion, locating carcasses through an acute sense of smell. The lack of feathers on their heads helps to keep them cleaner as they enjoy their unsavory meals. The gentle and non-aggressive birds lack a vocal organ, instead emitting hissing and grunting sounds.
Other characteristics that may seem unsavory, but are actually purposeful, include the following:
Turkey vultures often vomit when approached by predators. This may be an attempt to lighten their load for escape by flight or to ward off a predator with the foul-smelling regurgitant. It may also be done in hopes that the predator will choose the free meal instead of the bird. Turkey vultures also practice urohydrosis, by directing urine onto their own legs. Since the birds can not sweat, the evaporating urine helps to cool them on warm days. Also, the urine contains strong acids which may help to kill bacteria present on the legs from the bird stepping on the carrion it eats.
Similar in size to the bald eagle, the turkey vulture's head is small and reddish when mature. Immature birds have gray heads.