text:
Days Of Our Lives Poll: Alternative Reality.
Nicole keeps fantasizing about having a future with Daniel. It comes complete with their own purple apartment, well behaved little boy and a doctor who is tanned and topless all year round. Is this the kind of future you'd find entertaining to watch?
Vote in our poll and let Soap Opera Fan Blog know what you think. Don't see the option you would have chosen? Tell us what you think should have been included in the comments section.
If you missed what happened on Daytime last week, you can get the highlights fast by reading our Soap Opera Fan Soap Summaries. And to fantasize about what might have been, take a look at our Days Of Our Lives Fan Fiction.
Join us on Twitter @soapoperafan and Facebook.
Photo Credit: Soap Opera Fan Blog
Fun fact! Matthew Purvis wrote this story just for you on September 10th, 2012 |


text:
The Executive Leadership Development Program (ELDP) provides
Department of Defense (DOD) and interagency personnel the
opportunity to participate in an exceptional joint and
enterprise-wide Civilian leadership training and development
experience. The objective is to promote greater understanding of the
overall Department of Defense mission and culture, provide hands-on
leadership training that parallels selected military training and
ensure cross-Component exposure. The program is offered annually,
and provides a series of learning and training experiences that
blend experiential and academic learning, with hands-on exercises
focused on the role of the war fighter. Program activities are
conducted both in the United States and overseas.
ELDP is intended to stretch participants' experiences and comfort
zones and to help them develop the knowledge, skills and behaviors
expected of future Enterprise leaders. Given the rigor of these
requirements, the ELDP program demands a significant commitment by
participants and their commands.
See ELDP Overview for additional details. During the course of a typical 10-month training cycle an ELDP
participant can expect to travel and participate in training
deployments for at least a week to 12 days out of each month.
Applying for a physically demanding leadership development
program, such as ELDP, is an important step. It is not intended for
everyone. Events during the program require participants to work
long hours when deployed, travel on weekends, adjust to rapidly
changing conditions and situations, climb three-story nautical
ladders, jump from airborne training towers, fly in tactically
configured military aircraft, and participate in rigorous physical
fitness activities that include but are not limited to running or
walking a mile in 12 minutes or less, doing push-ups, sit-ups,
pull-ups and participating in an organized physical fitness regimen.
Extraordinary dietary requirements or unique/specialized medical
care may not be available while traveling overseas or working at
training sites. These conditions should be considered when applying
for ELDP.
All eligibility criteria must be met at time of nomination.
ELDP is not for everyone. It is both mentally and
physically challenging. All applicants must submit a medical release
form/letter from a licensed physician. The ideal ELDP candidate:
Applicants must apply through and be nominated by their respective commands.
HQDA will not accept applications directly from candidates.
Applications must be submitted to HQDA by command training points of contact.
The nomination suspense date above is the HQDA suspense date. Please check with your local training coordinator for local command
suspense date. Application packets received from individuals who do not meet ALL eligibility requirements at the time of nomination
will not be processed and will be returned through command channels.
Training points of contact must scan applications in a PDF format and send in an encrypted e-mail to:
NOTE: Incomplete nomination packets, packets received after the suspense date or without command endorsement will not be considered. No extensions will be granted.
The application checklist is
Applicants are selected through a competitive process.
Nomination packages will be vetted by a selection panel.
Applicants will be evaluated on experience and readiness for the
program as evidenced by the documentation provided in the
application package. Alternates will be selected in the event
primary candidates are unable to attend or additional class
seats become available.
Sponsoring organizations and those selected for the Executive
Leadership Development Program will be notified via email.
ELDP is centrally funded. All costs (travel, per diem & tuition)
associated with this program will be funded by the Civilian
Leader & Training Development Division (CTLD) for all Civilian
Courses and Programs »
Privacy / Security |
Accessibility/Section 508 |
iSALUTE |
Sitemap |
Contact the Webmaster

subset: commoncrawl


text:
On a brilliantly sunny Gold Coast morning, Alessa Quizon calmly paddled out into the opening round of the Quik Pro and took down the contest's eventual finalists: five-time World Champion Stephanie Gilmore and 2013 Rookie of the Year Bianca Buitendag. It was Quizon's first ever heat as a World Tour competitor, and the even-keeled 19 year old surfed with poise, even baiting Gilmore—competitive surfing's radiant, unflappable queen, and top-of-the-food-chain Goldie local—into a mid-heat interference.
Though she eventually lost out in her Round 4 heat, Alessa's opening salvo showed the rest of the Tour that the rookie was more than ready for the big leagues. Quizon, of course, had known that all along, and was chomping at the bit for a chance to prove it.
"Being my first year on Tour, I really want to show what I can do," says Alessa. "Especially in bigger waves. I like surfing bigger waves because you can set up much bigger turns. And now every girl on Tour needs to have experience in big waves to do well because we're going to get them at Margaret River, Fiji, and Honolua."
Growing up in Makaha, Alessa had plenty of experience in waves of consequence. But coming from Oahu's gritty West Side also meant that her path in the surf world wouldn't be as easy as some.
"I always felt like I was on the outside," says Alessa. "I was never that close with many of the surf girls. When I was 16, I went through a phase where I didn't even know if I wanted to keep surfing."
Lucky for Quizon, she came from a supportive family, including older sister Kristen who had a brief pro career herself before becoming a police officer. Alessa's support network allowed her to develop the confidence to succeed at the sport's highest level. And in the coming years, the West Side ripper is eager to push the boundaries of not only her own surfing, but women's surfing as a whole.
"All the girls on Tour are doing crazy stuff," says Alessa. "But I want to do the kind of maneuvers that some girls wouldn't even go for. I want to do all the throwtails and laybacks that the guys do."


text:
Transitioning Youth
What is Transition?
Transition is the period of time when a student prepares to move from life as a student to life in the adult world. For students with developmental disabilities this means planning not only training and careers, but also identifying adult service providers. Maryland students are entitled to a free, appropriate and public education. Students with disabilities receive this entitlement until they complete the school year in which they turn 21; after this—eligibility and availability of funds determine services. Finding adult service providers is the responsibility of the student and the student's family.
What Services does The Arc provide?
The Arc wants to make sure that the transition from childhood to adulthood is smooth. Here are a few of the services we offer:
Who do I contact?
If you have questions about the Transitioning Youth Process, contact Melonee Clark at 301-925-7050 ext 307. For more information about Transition, click here and download a copy of the Transition Planning Guide. Click here to download an informative booklet entitled After the School Bus Stops Coming...
What is the next step in services?
The Arc would love to meet you and discuss our different programs for adults. The Arc offers four Adult Day Programs and an Employment Services Program.
What are some areas of transition that
I need to consider?
Applying for Metro Access, getting a Non-Driver's
Maryland Identification Card, applying for Supplemental Security
Income (SSI), applying for Medicaid, and attending the College
for Living at PGCC.
here to visit the Maryland Transitioning Youth website.
here to view additional resources.
Click The Following Links to Read About Child Programs That The Arc Offer:


text:
Laboratory Services
Pathology physicians at North Shore Medical Center provide comprehensive clinical and anatomic pathology services to NSMC Salem Hospital, NSMC Union Hospital and to the Mass General/North Shore Center for Outpatient Care in Danvers. Clinical and anatomic pathology outreach services are provided to medical facilities, physicians and health clinics, as well as long-term nursing facilities and visiting nurses associations. Our fully-accredited facility is equipped with a fully robotic system for preparing blood specimens for testing. Learn more


text:
This article reviews the role of psychological factors in the development of persistent pain and disability, with a focus on how basic psychological processes have been incorporated into theoretical models that have implications for physical therapy. To this end, the key psychological factors associated with the experience of pain are summarized, and an overview of how they have been integrated into the major models of pain and disability in the scientific literature is presented. Pain has clear emotional and behavioral consequences that influence the development of persistent problems and the outcome of treatment. Yet, these psychological factors are not routinely assessed in physical therapy clinics, nor are they sufficiently utilized to enhance treatment. Based on a review of the scientific evidence, a set of 10 principles that have likely implications for clinical practice is offered. Because psychological processes have an influence on both the experience of pain and the treatment outcome, the integration of psychological principles into physical therapy treatment would seem to have potential to enhance outcomes.
The experience of pain is shaped by a host of psychological factors. Choosing to attend to a noxious stimulus and interpreting it as painful are examples of 2 factors involving normal psychological processes. To be sure, pain is a subjective experience, and although it is certainly related to physiological processes, how individuals react to a new episode of pain is shaped and influenced by previous experience. Indeed, without learning from experience, it would be difficult to cope with pain and maintain good health. Thus, these psychological processes have tremendous value for survival.1 Yet, psychological factors are not completely understood, and the translation of their use to the clinic remains a challenge. Therefore, in this article, we focus on the most important psychological factors that have been incorporated into theoretical models of pain that may explain pain perception and treatment benefits. In our view, awareness of these factors is crucial for understanding patients in pain and is a prerequisite for integrating them into clinical practice.
Applying psychological knowledge in the clinical practice of physical therapy, however, has been quite a challenge. A majority of physical therapists are aware of the importance of psychological factors and attempt to utilize this awareness in their practice.2,3 The application of psychological knowledge in physical therapy might range from providing reassurance to setting goals or inquiring about the functional consequences of pain. However, there is an apparent lack of knowledge and tools to adequately apply this knowledge. For example, although 63% of physical therapists in a primary care setting were aware of the importance of psychological factors, only 47% reported knowledge of utilizing them clinically.3 Furthermore, when asked to specify which psychological factors are of importance, most therapists listed some evidence-based factors but also a host of non–evidence-based factors.2 Indeed, many of the factors listed by clinicians were difficult for them to address (eg, economic, drug abuse, or marital issues) in the clinic and did not match the evidence-based factors included in that article.2 Thus, a key to the problem appears to be a lack of clear guidelines for applying the knowledge. We acknowledge that there is currently a lack of clear information as to how psychological factors should be utilized by physical therapists and other clinicians.
One area that is particularly relevant is how early physical therapy treatments might prevent the development of chronic musculoskeletal pain. Although many acute low back pain (LBP) problems resolve, a minority of people (∼10%) directly develop a persistent problem that disables them for a long period of time.4,5 The transition from acute to chronic pain problems is known to be catalyzed by psychological processes (see article by Nicholas et al6 in this issue). As a review of psychological interventions designed to prevent chronicity has shown positive effects when the psychological techniques are appropriately administered,6 competent application appears to be vital. In our view, an understanding of the basic psychological processes is, therefore, an essential base for competent application of psychological principles in the clinic.
To date, there has been broad recognition of the importance of a biopsychosocial view of pain, but a lack of clarity in how the psychological factors actually fit in, not least in clinical situations. How might psychology be utilized to improve care? To this end, we will focus on the central psychological factors and highlight the psychological processes that affect the pain experience over time. Indeed, we emphasize how psychological factors may contribute not only to the experience of acute pain but also to the development of chronic pain and disability over time. What might be quite a normal and appropriate response in the acute phase paradoxically may be a poor method of coping with persistent pain. Accordingly, we will highlight how psychological factors affect the development of persistent disability and illustrate the processes by describing pertinent theoretical models.
Psychological Processes
In this section, we provide an overview of fundamental psychological processes that are involved in most types of pain problems and highlight how these processes may contribute to the development of a persistent pain problem. A basic theme is that the psychological processes are highly intertwined and function together as a system. We consider them individually as a means of presentation. Note that these processes also form the basis of the models presented in the next section.
There are different ways in which we might group psychological factors. In our presentation, we attempt to portray the influence of psychological factors, as illustrated in Figure 1, as a sequence of processes, starting with initial awareness of the noxious stimulus, then cognitive processing, appraisal, and interpretation that leads people to act on their pain (ie, their pain behavior).7 These processes are influenced by their consequences and are limited by the environment (eg, cultural and social values). Although we present this as a sequence for understanding, we are aware that this is a model, and much more work is needed to fully describe these processes. In addition to the model, Table 1 provides an overview of the main factors and their possible consequences for the experience of pain.
An obvious prerequisite for pain perception is that our attention is directed toward the noxious stimulus. In fact, one function of pain is to demand attention.8 Viewed as a warning signal, pain is helpful because this attention should lead to appropriate responses in dealing with the injury. This view also underscores why it is difficult to simply ignore pain, particularly if it has alarming characteristics (eg, being very intense, sharp, or unusual).
The dilemma is that we sometimes pay attention to pain when there is little we can do to alleviate it (eg, having chronic musculoskeletal pain), but do not attend to it when it may be a useful warning signal (eg, during an accident). Although attention is under the control of some basic brain processes, its psychological function is to motivate behavior. If pain is considered a "threat," then the threat value of the (noxious) stimulus helps to steer awareness: the greater the threat, the more attention given. Attention to pain then may be linked to fear and anxiety and the need to take action (eg, escaping or avoiding it). Vigilance refers to an abnormal focus on possible signals of pain or injury9 that might help explain why a seemingly small injury results in intense pain. This mechanism also underscores the close link between emotional and cognitive processes and attention.7,10 Attentional factors are quite pertinent in the clinic because there are techniques that address them. Distraction techniques teach patients to shift their attention to stimuli other than the pain (eg, by imagining the sounds of waves hitting the shore), whereas interceptive exposure shifts attention toward the pain so that the signal will habituate.11
Once the noxious stimulus has been attended to, cognitive processes are used to interpret what they mean. This process is highly intertwined with emotional processes, and it sets the stage for behaving.7 How we think about a noxious stimulus is shaped by our previous experiences, which explains why the simple directive "think about something else" often is impossible to accomplish. Indeed, the paradox is that attempting to suppress thoughts about pain actually increases the pain experience.12 Cognitive processes are central in explaining why we sometimes may experience an insignificant stimulus, such as light pressure, as severe pain, or a serious injury as little or no pain. Several basic cognitive and emotional aspects are involved in the interpretation of pain.
Beliefs and attitudes.
We all hold certain assumptions about how pain works and what it probably means to feel a given stimulus.13 Beliefs serve the useful purpose of aiding in rapid interpretation of stimuli, and they seem to provide a shortcut that helps our brain process the enormous amount of incoming stimuli in a more efficient manner. They provide a sort of automatic interpretation of the stimuli; thus, these stimuli do not need lengthy processing in the brain. Yet, this very propensity can lead to responses that may be detrimental. Beliefs and attitudes also are influenced by the social setting we live in so that our views about what might be causing the pain (eg, work demands) and what should be done (eg, get a radiograph) reflect a broader social representation. Several attitudes and beliefs have been found to be related to the development of persistent pain and disability.14,15 For example, certain beliefs that set the stage for activity restrictions are tied to the development of long-term pain and disability. These beliefs include the idea that "hurt is harm" (ie, if it hurts, something serious must be broken), that "pain is a signal to stop what you are doing" (ie, if an activity results in pain, you should stop before you injure yourself), and that "rest is the best medicine" (ie, pain is a signal you should rest to recuperate your body).
The ideas or perceptions we have about our pain also are mirrored in our expectations and may have considerable impact on our experience of the pain.14 Normally, we have ideas about the cause of the pain, its management, and how long it should take for recovery.16,17 These expectations appear to drive coping behavior, even in the seeming absence of actual feedback. Furthermore, such expectations or health perceptions are a good predictor of outcome in a host of medical conditions.16,17 One significant determinant of our experience of pain is whether our expectations are fulfilled. We may expect, for instance, that we will fully recover from a bout of neck pain in 3 or 4 days. Epidemiology tells us that this is a very optimistic expectation, and when the expectation is not fulfilled, it may generate further negative cognitions and motivate behaviors that may not be particularly helpful.18,19
Cognitive sets.
In the process of making sense out of incoming signals, we use various "ways of thinking" to help provide a framework. This is a normal and helpful process, but for a variety of reasons, some patients may use cognitive patterns that misrepresent actual events or probable future events. The patient may fall into a cognitive trap where the interpretation is tantalizing and well connected with the emotional state, but where a consistent "error" in interpreting reality is made.7 This pattern of interpretation is like a lens that distorts one's view of the world and appears to function as a part of our response to stress.20 An example of such a thought process is pain catastrophizing, which can be defined as an exaggerated, negative orientation toward pain where a relatively neutral event is irrationally made into a catastrophe.21 In essence, the person imagines the worst possible result that could happen, but accepts it as the given result. Catastrophic thoughts usually are stated as assumptions (eg, "If the pain does not get better, I will end up in a wheelchair" or "The pain will never stop, it will only get worse and worse"). Not surprisingly, pain catastrophizing is associated with a variety of problems that hinder recovery, making treatment more difficult and increasing the risk of developing persistent pain and disability.6,9,22 In short, because catastrophizing is a marker of the development of long-term problems, it may be an important target for treatment.
Emotions and their regulation.
One of the most disruptive features of pain is the emotional distress. The typical emotional reaction to pain includes anxiety, fear, anger, guilt, frustration, and depression. How these emotions are regulated by the patient has implications for their impact on pain. Indeed, emotions are powerful drivers of behavior and shape our experience of the pain via direct neural connections. Negative affect is a key reason we associate pain with suffering. Thus, pain activates negative emotions that vary from tolerable to miserable.23 It is interesting, therefore, that clinicians often focus more on the sensory aspects of pain (eg, intensity) than on the emotional aspects. Indeed, negative affect is strongly associated with poor treatment outcome, as well as the development of disability from LBP.12,24
Anxiety and worry are prevalent emotions, as pain represents an imminent threat to our welfare.25 People with persistent pain typically have significantly higher rates of anxiety disorders than do those without persistent pain.25 Fear, which is characterized by an extreme reaction that prepares us for "fight or flight," is one form of anxiety that has powerful consequences (eg, for our cognitions, attention, and behavior). Fear, however, is time limited. More common is worry, which is distinguished by frequent cognitive intrusions where the person considers "what if" possibilities 20 that are quite negative and aversive.26 Because of this nature, worry drives behavior, attention, and cognitions.
Depressed mood is a common and powerful emotional state that affects the pain experience. Depression is defined as a psychological problem characterized by negative mood, hopelessness, and despair, and an average of 52% of patients with pain fulfill the criteria for depression.27 Even more people have a depressed mood but do not fulfill the diagnostic criteria for major depression.28 The presence of depression in a pain condition is associated with higher levels of pain intensity and is a potent risk factor for disability.27,29 Furthermore, people who have musculoskeletal pain and are depressed have been found to have twice the sick leave duration as those who have pain but are not depressed.30,31 Future risk of long-term disability also is affected negatively, as is treatment outcome.22,27,32 Studies have shown that high levels of pretreatment depression are associated with poor rehabilitation outcomes.33–35
Coping Strategies
When a painful stimulus has been attended to and interpreted as being a threat, strategies for dealing with this threat are activated.7 As illustrated in Figure 1, these strategies first may be activated cognitively and involve a host of cognitive techniques (eg, ignoring, visualizing) and overt behavioral techniques (eg, relaxation, self-statements) believed to reduce the threat of the pain. Coping strategies are learned and involve an integration of emotional, cognitive, and behavioral systems. The learning experiences help to fine-tune these strategies by providing feedback as to whether they work or not. Although some situations offer the opportunity to ponder which strategy might be best, such as a relapse or flare-up, the choice of coping strategy may occur quickly without conscious thinking in acute situations, such as an acute injury (eg, cut yourself with a knife, smashed finger with a hammer). Once the strategy is activated, it is likely that this process will be reflected in actual behavioral attempts to cope with the pain.
Pain Behavior
An important step forward in understanding the psychology of pain was taken in the 1970s when Fordyce put forth the idea that pain should be analyzed as behavior.36 Pain is a private event, but it can be viewed as a set of behaviors such as taking analgesics, seeking care, or resting. Furthermore, internal events such as thoughts and emotions also are considered to be forms of behavior. Although pain is a complex experience that is difficult to understand, it basically is no more so than other psychological problems such as depression or generalized anxiety that also are conceptualized in this way. Viewing pain as a set of behaviors renders analyses using learning paradigms. Most pain behaviors are learned and are influenced by emotions and cognitions, but in particular via direct environmental consequences. Thus, one learns to cope with pain by taking various actions or thinking in a certain way. When these behaviors result in less pain, this outcome may reinforce the action and make the behavior more likely with future pain episodes, as illustrated in Figure 1.
Learning factors help explain why persistent problems sometimes develop. First, a basic tenet is that behaviors providing short-term benefits (ie, pain relief) sometimes can be detrimental in the long run. For example, Fordyce36 suggested that although resting or taking analgesics may be a good coping strategy in the acute phase, these behaviors might actually facilitate the development of long-term problems. Consequently, treatment programs for people with chronic musculoskeletal pain problems have been built on gradually changing these behaviors, such as by decreasing analgesics and increasing activity levels. A second basic tenet is that learning involves the whole organism and environment; therefore, pain behaviors may be reinforced by social and environmental consequences. Learning then can be quite important in the development of chronic disability. For example, changes in life routines necessitated by the pain (eg, can no longer do the vacuuming) might be maintained by other consequences (eg, partner gladly does it instead).
Learning paradigms provide a tremendous opportunity for helping patients change (ie, to learn skills that allow them to cope better with the pain). If part of the suffering and disability are related to learned changes, it is possible to make further changes toward a more preferable goal by utilizing the principles of learning. This is why most multidimensional rehabilitation programs use some type of learning paradigm, usually in the form of cognitive-behavioral therapy.12 It also is why early interventions designed to prevent the development of persistent disability tend to focus on changing cognitions and behavior.4
Taken together, these processes provide insight into how psychological factors affect the experience of pain. Nevertheless, it still may be difficult to appreciate how these processes work in reality and how we might utilize them in specific ways in the clinic. To facilitate understanding and application, various models have been put forward. In the next section, we examine pertinent theoretical models of pain that have applied psychological processes to explain how pain problems develop over time and how these models might guide clinical interventions.
Models of the Development of Persistent Pain Problems
A number of theoretical models have been proposed to explain more-specific ways in which psychological factors might have a bearing on pain and disability over time. Most researchers in pain psychology subscribe to a broad, biopsychosocial formulation, but more-specific conceptual models provide a pathway whereby psychological factors affect the transition from acute to persistent pain problems. Although there are many theoretical perspectives of pain and disability, we will present the 5 theories commonly referred to in current studies of pain psychology. Three of these models (fear-avoidance, acceptance and commitment, and misdirected problem solving) are specific to the experience of chronic pain, and 2 of these models (stress-diathesis and self-efficacy) represent broader theories of health behavior that can be applied to pain.
Table 2 provides a summary of the models and examples of the basic components, the processes involved, and some implications for treatment. The 5 models provide ways of understanding how the specific interactions and mechanisms that exist between psychological factors are interrelated. Thus, they help us to understand the development of persistent pain and disability. Moreover, each of these models highlights different mechanisms, which may help us select the most effective ways to address psychological factors in the clinical management of LBP.
Psychological Models of Chronic Pain
Fear-avoidance model.
One of the most influential models to explain psychological factors in the experience of pain has been the fear-avoidance model, which was advanced to explain how patients with an acute or subacute pain condition might transition over time to a chronic state of depression, disability, and inactivity.37–39 The essential elements of the fear-avoidance model are shown in Figure 2. A specific emotion regulation factor in the model is fear. Fear of pain develops as a result of a cognitive interpretation of pain as threatening (pain catastrophizing), and this fear affects attention processes (hypervigilance) and leads to avoidance behaviors, followed by disability, disuse, and depression. Both negative affectivity (a tendency to see the cup as "half empty" rather than "half full") and threatening types of illness information can help to fuel catastrophic thoughts about pain. The fear-avoidance model suggests that in the absence of fear-avoidance beliefs about pain, individuals are more likely to confront pain problems head-on and become more engaged in active coping to improve daily function. This model is supported by the evidence that high levels of pain-related fear are associated with distraction from normal cognitive functions, hypervigilance of pain-related sensations, and unwillingness to engage in physical activities.40 Essentially, the fear-avoidance model purports that fear of pain and of injury or reinjury sometimes is more disabling than the pain itself.41 Over time, fear of pain results in musculoskeletal deconditioning, reduced pain tolerance, and fewer attempts to overcome functional limitations.
One practical implication of this model is that patients expressing catastrophic thoughts about pain (eg, "I can't stand it anymore") are at greater risk of delayed recovery.21 These individuals may require a higher level of support and encouragement, as well as a very gradual exposure to increasing levels of physical activity. Graded exposure to physical activity has been considered a critical aspect of treatment in order to overcome a fear of pain.40,42
Acceptance and commitment model.
One relatively new model for understanding psychological factors in chronic pain is that of acceptance and commitment. This model was borrowed from a more general psychotherapeutic approach (acceptance and commitment therapy43) that has been offered as a complement to cognitive-behavioral therapy. At the heart of this model is a cognitive interpretation process, namely the concept of psychological inflexibility, or the inability to persist in or change behavior patterns that might service long-term goals or values.44 The implication of this model for chronic pain is that individuals should reduce futile attempts to avoid or control pain and focus instead on living life to the fullest, participating in valued activities, and pursuing personally relevant goals.45 Recent studies of patients with chronic pain have suggested that pain-related acceptance leads to less emotional distress and higher physical functioning.46–48 The clinical implication is that once LBP has persisted beyond several weeks, provider advice and treatment should communicate realistic expectations and focus more on functional adaptation and daily coping than on experimenting with new curative or palliative measures.
Misdirected problem-solving model.
As shown in Figure 3, this model suggests that emotional processes in the form of worries about pain and cognitive evaluations (eg, pain catastrophizing) are the product of a human predisposition (and probably an evolutionary advantage) to solve problems (a behavioral process) by verbally ruminating on possible negative outcomes and plotting methods of avoidance or escape.49 Thus, worrying about pain and its implications is part of a natural-born problem-solving strategy, but one that, at least in the case of chronic pain, can have negative long-term consequences. This model explains why persistent pain repeatedly interrupts attention, fuels worries about negative consequences, produces hypervigilance to pain, and produces repeated efforts to alleviate pain, even when there is no belief that a solution exists.8,50,51 If pain is framed as solely a biomedical problem, problem-solving efforts inevitably will be based on strategies to remove or reduce pain. When multiple attempts to get rid of pain fail, worries are further reinforced, and patients are stuck in an endless loop of increasing worries and failed problem-solving attempts to alleviate pain. The practical implication of this model is that repeated efforts to manage LBP through pharmacological, physical, and surgical (and even psychological) treatments that are focused on pain relief may inadvertently reinforce this misdirected problem-solving strategy. Instead, a reframing of the problem toward more-functional goals and away from pain relief (or biomedical explanations of pain) may help to redirect problem-solving efforts that are more likely to be successful.49
Psychological Models of Health and Pain
Self-efficacy model.
Like people with other medical conditions, individuals with chronic or recurring LBP may need to adjust their habits and lifestyles while still trying to maintain basic physical, social, and vocational activities. This model requires that patients make efforts to understand the nature of their pain problem, plan self-care strategies for dealing with pain flare-ups, learn to overcome functional problems effectively, and utilize available supports and resources wisely. Thus, this model underscores behavioral processes (coping) as well as cognitive processes (interpretation of the problem and degree of control). A tenet of this model is that active coping promotes a sense of confidence, or "self-efficacy," for dealing with pain that is associated with improved function and well-being.52,53
Self-efficacy has been defined as "the belief in one's capabilities to organize and execute the courses of action required to produce given attainments."54(p3) It has been an important theoretical construct underlying research in arthritis and other sources of chronic pain.55,56 This way of thinking has contributed to the development of self-management interventions for chronic pain that focus on teaching pain coping skills, educating patients about pain, and providing social support.57,58 Low pain self-efficacy is characterized by a feeling that pain is uncontrollable and unmanageable, given the physical demands of daily life. In terms of clinical management of LBP, this model suggests that provider advice and treatment should be delivered in a way that takes into account individual patient preferences, involves patients in decision making, and provides useful self-management strategies for coping with pain flare-ups and functional difficulties.
Stress-diathesis model.
This model suggests that when LBP befalls an individual who is already under significant psychological stress or whose coping resources are already stretched thin, pain may result in more significant functional limitations and generate higher levels of emotional distress. Thus, this model highlights the role of emotional processes focusing on stress, depression, and anxiety (distress). Although this model is probably the least formally construed, there is considerable evidence that individuals with a psychiatric history, with depressed mood, with major life adversity, or reporting high levels of stress are at greater risk of transitioning to chronic and disabling LBP.24,32,59,60 Although the burden of persistent LBP obviously can contribute to emotional distress, it also is possible that pre-existing emotional distress (or perhaps the immediate emotional response to pain onset) might predispose some individuals to cope poorly with an episode of acute LBP. This model has been at the core of efforts to refocus LBP management on secondary prevention of distress and disability and away from the more-orthodox biomedical approach of uncovering physical abnormalities.61 This model also has supported the recommendation that providers interview or screen patients for possible "yellow flags" if there is no immediate resolution of LBP in the first 2 weeks after pain onset.62 The practical implication of this model is that more-extensive screening or history taking may be necessary to understand lifestyle, contextual, and coping factors that are important in the recovery process.
Conclusions and Implications: Guiding Principles
Psychological theories and models about pain have provided a better understanding of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral manifestations of pain, but what is their implication for the clinical management of LBP? To summarize the most significant clinical implications, we provide 10 guiding principles in Table 3 that can be synthesized from our review above of the psychological processes and models of the pain experience. Effective strategies for coping with persistent, recurrent, or chronic pain are very different from those for managing acute pain, and pain that persists beyond a few weeks can lead to emotional and behavioral consequences that are deleterious to pain recovery and functional rehabilitation.
One theme that emerges from psychological theories of pain is the need for a patient-centered approach to clinical care that takes into account individual differences in lifestyle, occupational demands, social support, health habits, personal coping skills, and other contextual factors that may dramatically affect goals and expectations for treatment. Recognizing that a patient is depressed, frustrated by persisting pain, or beginning to severely limit movements and activity are reasons to adopt a more psychological or multidisciplinary approach that might offset some of the negative functional and social consequences of a developing chronic pain problem. Among patients with persistent pain, even good problem solvers can become frustrated by repeated (futile) attempts to discover and eliminate the anatomical source of pain. Thus, once medical "red flags" have been ruled out, conducting additional diagnostic tests or searching for a specific biomechanical explanation of LBP may actually cause harm, as it can reinforce a patient's misdirected problem-solving efforts to find a cure for pain, rather than to begin solving the functional problems associated with pain.
Another theme that emerges from psychological theories of pain is the importance of emotional responses and pain beliefs. Individuals show tremendous differences in their ability to regulate emotions as well as their attributions about pain, their judgments about the seriousness of pain, their expectations of assistance and emotional support from others, and their sense of control and mastery over pain. Three pain beliefs that have been shown to put patients at greatest risk of a poor prognosis are pain catastrophizing (an exaggerated, negative interpretation of pain), fear avoidance (a belief that all activity should be avoided to reduce pain), and poor expectations for recovery.6 Assessing these patient beliefs about pain may be even more important than reaching a definitive diagnosis or explaining what set of factors actually contributed to pain onset.
Providing psychologically oriented treatment techniques or simply utilizing psychological principles involves the application of the basic processes and models presented in this article. There is a growing need to translate these ideas into useful clinical tools and interventions for widespread dissemination. Psychological interventions range from simple techniques involving communication skills to advanced methods requiring considerable training and practice under supervision. Thus, although we encourage application, we also believe that professional competency is warranted. Assessing psychological factors in patients with LBP is a critical first step, and successfully utilizing them in treatment may be a key to improving outcomes and preventing the development of chronic disability.
Both authors provided concept/idea/project design and writing. Dr Linton provided project management. Dr Shaw provided consultation (including review of manuscript before submission).
- Received October 3, 2010.
- Accepted January 28, 2011.
- © 2011 American Physical Therapy Association


text:
To the Shepard Smiths of the world, STFU!
Smith has essentially jumped the shark by lecturing the audience to remain calm and not to believe most of the media hype surrounding the Ebola scare. And Smith should know about media hype being one of the main purveyors of it during the Hurricane Katrina coverage. Anyone remember that? Yeah, me too.
But here's the point. I'm remaining calm. I'm not panicking. However I am more than a little bit angry about the fiasco, the circus, that surrounds the US case of Ebola.
Here's a hint about why the CDC has been so blastedly inept in its handling of a single freaking case:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a public-health agency, and public health is an uneasy combination of two very different things: emergency disease containment and nannyist do-goodism. It is a field that exists to save us from the plague and to tell us to drink less soda. To expect the same agency, and many of the same people, to be very good at both of these missions is a lot to ask, and the CDC is much better at the second than the first. Since (thank God) we don't experience many plague outbreaks, public health spends most of its time on that second mission: preaching the virtues of green vegetables and contraception. So the CDC is for the most part an agency engaged in a kind of low-grade, often silly social activism much of the time. When we confront a disease outbreak or similar public-health emergency, the CDC turns to the other part of its mission, and has an impressive core of experts and resources to call upon in doing so. But the turn is no simple matter, and the fact is we (thankfully) just haven't had much experience with public-health emergencies on American soil, so the people charged with handling them haven't had much practice here. It is not hard to imagine how all of this could lead to failures of the sort we have seen.
And who is the head of the CDC? The same guy who helped NYC's mayor Bloomberg impose tobacco bans, try to ban Big Gulps and chase your salt use. That's right, a "nannyist do-gooder" who hasn't the faintest idea, or so it seems, on how to address the core mission of the CDC (i.e. the mission for which it was originally formed). Shouldn't we be angry and upset about that? After the initial whining by the bureaucrats about how "funding" was a problem we learned about how they prioritized the funding they got (which, by the way, was more than adequate). It certainly wasn't primarily spent on the core mission as is now very obvious.
Ever hear of Dr. Nichole Lurie? Yeah, me neither. But she is the defacto "Ebola Czar".
…Dr. Nicole Lurie, explains that the responsibilities of her office are "to help our country prepare for, respond to and recover from public health threats." She says her major priority is to help the country prepare for emergencies and to "have the countermeasures—the medicines or vaccines that people might need to use in a public health emergency. So a large part of my office also is responsible for developing those countermeasures."
Or, as National Journal rather glowingly puts it, "Lurie's job is to plan for the unthinkable. A global flu pandemic? She has a plan. A bioterror attack? She's on it. Massive earthquake? Yep. Her responsibilities as assistant secretary span public health, global health, and homeland security." A profile of Lurie quoted her as saying, "I have responsibility for getting the nation prepared for public health emergencies—whether naturally occurring disasters or man-made, as well as for helping it respond and recover. It's a pretty significant undertaking." Still another refers to her as "the highest-ranking federal official in charge of preparing the nation to face such health crises as earthquakes, hurricanes, terrorist attacks, and pandemic influenza."
Lurie is the Asst. Secretary of HHS for "preparedness and response, whose job it is to "lead the nation in preventing, responding to and recovering from the adverse health effects of public health emergencies and disasters, ranging from hurricanes to bioterrorism.""
Really? Where IS she?! Instead, CNN reports, we're getting a different Ebola Czar:
President Barack Obama is expected to name Ron Klain, a former chief of staff to two Democratic vice presidents, as the country's Ebola czar, knowledgeable sources told CNN's Jake Tapper today.
Klain is a former chief of staff to Vice President Joe Biden and also to former Vice President Al Gore. Klain is currently president of Case Holdings and General Counsel of Revolution, an investment group. He has clerked for the U.S. Supreme Court and headed up Gore's effort during the 2000 Florida recount.
Yes, that's right friends, we're getting a lawyer and political hack inserted into the mess.
Meanwhile, off the coast of Belize, a Carnival cruiseliner is being barred entry to a port because one of the healthcare workers who treated our Patient Zero is on board (so far no symptoms, thank goodness). I guess it was too forward thinking to sequester all those workers to ensure they weren't infected and didn't pose a threat to others. I mean, you know, Epidemic Prevention 101 is so 20th Century … or something.
So Shep, STFU. You're an overpaid news reader. Confine yourself to doing that. Talking about panicking because of media hype is about as hypocritical as anything you can do, given your history.
As for me, I'll remain outspoken about how poorly this particular event has been handled and continues to be handled. It is all about ineptness and lack of leadership at many levels and in many bureaucratic agencies. It is the poison fruit of big government. The only silver lining in all of this is the media coverage is keeping that front and center for the public to see.
I'm fine with that.
Sometimes … most of the time … you just have to raise the "BS" flag
The latest reason for hoisting said banner is this apparent decision by political operatives on the left to blame Republicans for the ebola epidemic. Because of them, so the meme goes, we've had a lack of funding. And that lack of funding is blamed for the failure to have a viable ebola vaccine. Per the NIH chief, they'd have likely succeeded in creating an ebola vaccine if only they'd had the money:
Dr. Francis Collins, the head of the National Institutes of Health, said that a decade of stagnant spending has "slowed down" research on all items, including vaccinations for infectious diseases. As a result, he said, the international community has been left playing catch-up on a potentially avoidable humanitarian catastrophe.
"NIH has been working on Ebola vaccines since 2001. It's not like we suddenly woke up and thought, 'Oh my gosh, we should have something ready here,'" Collins told The Huffington Post on Friday. "Frankly, if we had not gone through our 10-year slide in research support, we probably would have had a vaccine in time for this that would've gone through clinical trials and would have been ready."
As the following chart shows, the problem wasn't money at all:
Since 2001, tons of money have gone toward global health programs. Tons. And the upward move was made during Republican control. So to say his point is BS is to be kind.
In fact, it is likely to have been all about priorities instead, and ebola wasn't a priority. Secondly, as Glenn Reynolds points out, it had to do with mission creep.
As The Federalist's David Harsanyi writes: "The CDC, an agency whose primary mission was to prevent malaria and then other dangerous communicable diseases, is now spending a lot of time, energy and money worrying about how much salt you put on your steaks, how close you stand to second-hand smoke and how often you do calisthenics."
These other tasks may or may not be important, but they're certainly a distraction from what's supposed to be the CDC's "one job" — protecting America from a deadly epidemic. And to the extent that the CDC's leadership has allowed itself to be distracted, it has paid less attention to the core mission.
So money which could have been and should have been dedicated to the core mission was instead spent on ideologically supported nonsense. Any wonder why "money" wasn't available? Because it was wastefully spent elsewhere in the structure of the CDC and NIH.
Gov. Bobby Jindal gives us more facts on the problem:
In recent years, the CDC has received significant amounts of funding. Unfortunately, however, many of those funds have been diverted away from programs that can fight infectious diseases, and toward programs far afield from the CDC's original purpose.
Consider the Prevention and Public Health Fund, a new series of annual mandatory appropriations created by Obamacare. Over the past five years, the CDC has received just under $3 billion in transfers from the fund. Yet only 6 percent—$180 million—of that $3 billion went toward building epidemiology and laboratory capacity. Especially given the agency's postwar roots as the Communicable Disease Center, one would think that "detecting and responding to infectious diseases and other public health threats" warrants a larger funding commitment.
Instead, the Obama administration has focused the CDC on other priorities. While protecting Americans from infectious diseases received only $180 million from the Prevention Fund, the community transformation grant program received nearly three times as much money—$517.3 million over the same five-year period.
There are the numbers of funds available to the CDC for its core mission. $3 billion dollars. Spent on its core mission from that fund? $180 million. So how again is that the GOP's fault?
Instead the truth of the matter is we have a bureaucracy with a supposedly single mission (for heaven sake, its even in their name – "Centers for Disease Control") which has instead done what bureaucracies always do … creep their authority out into areas where they don't belong (with the approval of the administration, of course), doing things that mostly fulfill an ideological agenda instead of an agenda of real worth to the citizens it supposedly serves. The money that should have gone toward heavy research into communicable disease threats such as ebola instead went to "fund neighborhood interventions like "increasing access to healthy foods by supporting local farmers and developing neighborhood grocery stores," or "promoting improvements in sidewalks and street lighting to make it safe and easy for people to walk and ride bikes."
So while we sit here and watch the left attempt this bit of BS (and watch a certain segment of the citizenry lap it up), let's remember the reality of why there's no ebola vaccine. It has absolutely nothing to do with money and everything to do with political priorities.
In this case the priority chosen has put us in a position to be essentially defenseless in the face of a disease for which we should have developed a vaccine by now. But I bet we have some great bike paths out there.
And that failure, friends, is clearly attributable to the administration in power which is responsible for that shift in priorities.
Utter failure.
What Is Happening To Choice?
Freedom's fundamental principles are choice and the lack of coercion. When you are free you make the choices in your life and you're responsible for the consequences of your choice. In an authoritarian regime, someone else makes the choice for you and you're left to obey or be punished. In some cases, you don't even have the choice to obey – you are forced to comply.
And it is the latter of which this reminds me:
Public health officials are considering promoting routine circumcision for all baby boys born in the United States to reduce the spread of H.I.V., the virus that causes AIDS.
No. Huh uh. No way.
"Public health officials" don't get to make those decisions if a free country. There they'd be limited to offering the surgery as an option for the reasons stated, but no more. But "routine circumcision" doesn't mean it will be offered as an option – routine means it will be done as a part of the birth procedure with or without the parent's permission.
But Dr. Peter Kilmarx, chief of epidemiology for the division of H.I.V./AIDS prevention at the C.D.C., said that any step that could thwart the spread of H.I.V. must be given serious consideration.
"We have a significant H.I.V. epidemic in this country, and we really need to look carefully at any potential intervention that could be another tool in the toolbox we use to address the epidemic," Dr. Kilmarx said. "What we've heard from our consultants is that there would be a benefit for infants from infant circumcision, and that the benefits outweigh the risks."
Now, let's take a broader view of what is being said here by Dr. Kimarx in relation to the health care insurance reform now being considered.
Remember, we're told, almost daily by proponents of this reform that decisions on care will be left to you and your doctor – correct?
So whose advice is Dr. Kilmarx basing his treatment recommendation on? That's right his "consultants". Where are you and your doctor in this decision making process?
Left out. Despite all the rhetoric to the contrary, Kilmarx is talking about keeping both you and your doctor completely out of the loop.
What Dr. Kilmarx is saying is the recommendations of the "consultants" outweighs your concerns and puts you out of that decision making cycle. Or, said more succinctly – they don't care what you or your doctor want, they're going to direct that "routine circumcisions" be a part of the birth procedure and they invoke an "epidemic" as the reason for this "intervention".
So, given this is just the CDC, imagine what those government officials charged with providing "evidence-based medicine" for everyone will be putting out as directives that get between you and your doctor. And don't forget, Obama is a great fan of "evidence-based care" as he noted at one of his pep-rallies townhalls on health care insurance reform.
What you're seeing from the CDC is only the very tiniest of tips of the iceberg if government is put in charge of health care. Allowing the government to dictate forced circumcision would only set the precedent for what we all fear government run health care would bring. It may not seem to be that important of an issue, but it is.
This isn't the government's choice to make or direct. And it never should be.


text:
Jamaica look to remain on winning trail
Jermaine Lannaman, Gleaner Writer
Defending champions Jamaica will seek to maintain their unbeaten run in the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) four-day tournament when they go up against the Leeward Islands at Sabina Park today.
The match, which is slated to get under way at 10 a.m., will see Jamaica looking to record their third straight win, while for the Leewards, the aim will be to end a three- game losing streak.
Jamaica, who got the better of the Leewards by 57 runs in WICB Super50 action on Thursday at the same venue, are again expected to bank their hopes on the spin pair of Nikita Miller and Odean Brown.
The duo were outstanding against Barbados and the Windwards in the opening rounds, and with the Leewards possessing a less-vaunted batting line-up, are again expected to come up trumps.
Fast bowlers Andrew Richardson, who bowled best on Thursday, and Andre Russell are also expected to provide keen support.
much expected of hyatt
As for their batting, much will again be expected of the powerful Danza Hyatt, who hit 99 on Thursday, and Lambert, who chipped in with a stroke-filled 77.
Seasoned campaigners Carlton Baugh Jr and David Bernard Jr could also get among the runs, along with improving youngsters Nkrumah Bonner and André McCarthy.
"It was good to get the Super50 win under our belts, however, we now have to condition our minds for the longer version of the game," said Lambert.
The Leewards, meanwhile, will be hoping that the form of returning captain Sylvester Joseph continues.
Joseph, on Thursday, scored a fluent 83, inclusive of six sixes and four fours.
Wicketkeeper Devon Thomas and leg-spinner Anthony Martin are also expected to play lead roles in the visitors' quest.
"Jamaica got the better of us in the Super50, but come Saturday, it's totally a new game," said Joseph.
"We, therefore, plan to come out and work harder than we did, and hopefully in the end, it will enable us to leave with a positive result."


text:
Enter your Email address:
Wolters Kluwer Health may email you for journal alerts and information, but is committed
to maintaining your privacy and will not share your personal information without
your express consent. For more information, please refer to our Privacy Policy.
Roehl, Kendall R. M.D.; Mahabir, Raman C. M.D., M.Sc.
Learning Objectives: After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Evaluate a patient for a reconstructive microsurgery procedure. 2. Discuss the current literature with regard to perioperative patient care. 3. Describe the common microsurgical setup and operating room considerations and anastomotic techniques. 4. List postoperative monitoring, flap salvage, and complications.
Summary: The purpose of this article is to provide guidelines for maintenance of certification continuing medical education for microsurgical operations. It may be used as an aid in evaluation and management of the microsurgical patient. Interspersed with the maintenance of certification–oriented format is continuing medical education information regarding the current state of practice concerning multiple variables in specific procedures of reconstructive microsurgery.
©2013American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Colleague's E-mail is Invalid
Your Name: (optional)
Your Email:
Colleague's Email:
Separate multiple e-mails with a (;).
Thought you might appreciate this item(s) I saw at Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
Send a copy to your email
Your message has been successfully sent to your colleague.
Some error has occurred while processing your request. Please try after some time.
An Existing Folder
A New Folder
Folder Name:
The item(s) has been successfully added to "".
Login with your LWW Journals username and password.
Username or Email:
Forgot Password?
Enter and submit the email address you registered with. An email with instructions to reset your password will be sent to that address.
Link to reset your password has been sent to specified email address.
What does "Remember me" mean?
By checking this box, you'll stay logged in until you logout. You'll get easier access to your articles, collections,
media, and all your other content, even if you close your browser or shut down your
To protect your most sensitive data and activities (like changing your password),
we'll ask you to re-enter your password when you access these services.
What if I'm on a computer that I share with others?
If you're using a public computer or you share this computer with others, we recommend
that you uncheck the "Remember me" box.
David H. Song, M.D., M.B.A. is the President-elect of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). He is a consultant with BioMet, Emmi Solutions, LLC, a consortium-member providing senior debt for Brava, and consultant with and investor in HealthEngine.com. He receives author royalties from Elsevier. Scot Glasberg, M.D. is the President of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). He is a consultant with LifeCell Corp and Mentor Corp and an investor with Strathspey Crown. The authors have no sources of funding to report related to the writing or submission of this discussion.
The location and affiliation information should read as follows: Arlington Heights, Ill. From the American Society of Plastic Surgeons/Plastic Surgery Foundation.
David H. Song, M.D., M.B.A., 444 E. Algonquin Rd. Arlington Heights, IL 60005, firstname.lastname@example.com
CME Test
Save my selection
Article Level Metrics
View All
The Clinical Masters of PRS – Breast eBooks
4 Essential eBooks for Plastic Surgeons


text:
Party-friendly food with vintage flair, you'll love serving these up.
Our Favorite Deviled Egg Recipes
Any of our deviled egg recipes make for a delicious spring meal starter. We love the recipes featured in this collection, but feel free to make them your own by tailoring to your desired tastes.
Stuffed eggs are often served warm in France, and this recipe is similar to one from the Périgord region. These delightful eggs will be the perfect addition to any gathering.
View Recipe: French-Style Stuffed Eggs


text:
Promoting democracy in Utah one pint at a time.
Hey, Folks! · Might we suggest this as your apropos theme music 'til January 2009..?
[powered by WordPress.]
Welcome to Drinking Liberally Salt Lake City. We meet at 6:30 p.m. every Friday in the back room of Piper Down [Map] and go to 9:30. All are welcome.
Subscribe in a reader
43 queries. 0.485 seconds


text:
It's official. Google has acquired YouTube for $1.65 Billion in stock.
The Google YouTube deal will go down as the most important Internet acquisition of the decade. It's a brilliant move by Google that positions them as the dominant player in digital video distribution.
Shoemoney did a great writeup on why the Google YouTube deal makes sense before the deal was final. He got hosed from the front page of digg (had way more than enough digs but didn't pass the editors = lame).
Some people think this buyout is a sign we are in a bubble. While most VC money is foolishly invested in piss poor Internet businesses, YouTube is a bargin for Google at $1.65 billion. Plus Google bought the company in stock. As I write this, Google's Stock is up 4 points (or a market cap of $1.2 Billion). That means the deal is already almost a wash (it cost Google NOTHING) and they have become the undisputed leader in digital video distribution on the Internet.
"But Quads – How Are they Going to monetize it?" Please. It's not even about the fact that they could probably make the money back in 6 years with adsense alone. It's about paid content syndication and (more importantly) paid interactive product placement. We have not even scratched the surface of what digital video advertisement will look like in 10 years. Mark my words, it will be Bigger than Adsense and Google just made the purchase of the decade.


text:
Skip to comments.Oakland 2nd Graders Reportedly Engage In Sex Acts, Teacher Suspended
Posted on 01/21/2011 5:36:31 AM PST by markomalley
A teacher at Oaklands Markham Elementary School has been suspended indefinitely after school officials said a pair of second-graders performed sex acts on each other in class with the teacher present.
I think everyone is taken aback over this shocking incident, Troy Flint, the spokesman for the Oakland Unified School District, told CBS 5 on Thursday. Of course, it is hard to understand how that could have occurred.
Flint said the sex acts incident was one of two separate cases under investigation involving the teacher; both incidents occurred last week in the same classroom but he said they didnt come to the attention of school officials until Wednesday.
In one case, several students apparently took off their clothes and were naked in the classroom. In the second incident, a boy and girl reportedly engaged in oral sex in front of their classmates.
Flint indicated that the suspended teacher, whose name was not released by the school district, was present for both of the incidents.
(Excerpt) Read more at sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com ...
If it was allowed to continue, the third "lesson" probably would've been about what gay couples do.
The Age of Clinton.
What's the problem, they're just doing what they're taught.
So...finally I know what is a "firable" offense for teachers. Disgusting.
Not Fired.............
Monkey see monkey do.
"a boy and girl reportedly engaged in oral sex in front of their classmates."
That is why everyone is so upset. Had it been a boy and a boy this would have been fine. This is Oakland, right across the Bay from San Francisco. This is the California Bay Area, perv central for the U.S.
Waiting for the NEA to file a lawsuit on behalf of the "teacher."
If this doesn't influence parents to homeschool, I don't know what would.
Fixed it.
Ah public schools! Government warehousing at it's best! /s
teacher will get a Dumbo position in the Dept of Education under Ayers
I thought oral copulation wasn't sex?!?!?! /sarc
All of those children are changed forever.
Freepmail wagglebee to subscribe or unsubscribe from the moral absolutes ping list.
FreeRepublic moral absolutes keyword search
The main Homeschool Ping List handles the homeschool-specific articles. I hold both the Homeschool Ping List and the Another Reason to Homeschool Ping list. Please freepmail me to let me know if you would like to be added to or removed from either list, or both.
At the risk of sounding crass.....
God may need to apologize to Sodom and Gomorrah if He doesn't act soon here.
Only *suspended indefinitely*.
Not fired.
Not charged with child abuse.
Not tarred and feathered and hung from the highest tree in the city.
I wonder if it's suspended with pay or not?
And you know they had to have had an audience.
Publik skools are reely good!
Was the teacher taking pictures?
This is so beyond the pale that ordinary people must have difficulty comprehending it. I know I cannot imagine such a thing happening.
2nd graders do not have the physical capacity to perform sex acts. They can only mimic them. Whoever taught them is either guilty of child abuse or of a sexual crime..
A second grade child would only perform these acts if they had personally witnessed them or been coerced into doing them.
This is far from "playing doctor".
Child social services should investigate their homes.
>> Not Fired.............
Fired and incarcerated.
I have never taught school but have taught Sunday School around this age level (30 kids). There is no way this "teacher" didn't know what was happening.
No. The teacher. What has s/he been showing them? And this is the 2nd offense.
Agreed. Whoever he/she is, jail time should be in his/her future.
I bet those parents are extatic at the thought of paying a beefy pension to this pedophile. Did this happen in Pelosi's district? Just curious.
I can't understand why no arrest has been mentioned since the article said this is the 2nd investigation on this teacher.
I don't understand it either. I know the teachers' union is powerful, but I can't believe that they would protect a teacher who was involved in this kind of abomination.
They don't even have the capacity to THINK of something like sex. The idea that people do something like that never occurs to them.
They do have to see it to know. Any child who displays knowledge of sex like that has been exposed to it.
"... if He doesn't act soon here...."
like take away our Godly gift of free choice??
The teacher's FIRST action when the kids started disrobing should have been to stop it and contact the principal.
Schools have social workers assigned to them and often *resource* officers (police). And my understanding is that BY LAW teachers are required to report any evidence of suspected abuse to the authorities.
It also does not give their ages. Long, long ago before we became civilized, one could assume that their ages would be in the 7-8 year range with a good degree of accuracy. Now,that we are civilized, they could be in their 20s.
I have also read stories on this forum of teachers receiving lessons, instructions, and guidance in the fine art of fisting and other divant sexual practices.
Perhaps the were giving a show and tell demonstration.
In conclusion, judging by what knowledge they demonestrate outside school, they damn sure don't learn anything worthwhile in schoolk, so they may as well learn how to screw and perform oral sex acts on each other.
Unless the teacher fostered/taught it. I'd like to know what other offense they are investigating that was mentioned in the article.
There is NO shortage of teachers to fill that slot when she went to jail.
Amen to all that . . . sad to say.
Children do learn by example, especially when told: do what I say, NOT what I do...
What an idiotic comment.
We live in a very SICK culture that can only be cured with Divine assistance.
Why is anyone in "let it all hang out" Berkeley surprised by this? Much less appalled? It is a town whose inhabitants don't believe in limits, or constraining anyone's personal choice of behavior. How is a teacher to know where a line is drawn, IF it is drawn?
It's not an idiotic comment in San Francisco country.
If the Oakland school board would only let it teachers marry. /s
The teacher is obviously an adult (based on age and presumed education) - Can someone explain why her name is being withheld?
Good question. We have more "conservatives" than one would think who will defend their government education welfare entitlement to their dying breath. Of course, as they will tell you, their schools are "different". The check is in the mail, too....
Take that M&*^%((r F*&^*&R out back and knee cap him.
Then drag his sorry azz up two stories of stairs and drop him into a pile of razor wire 5 rolls wide and 5 rolls high.
Leave him there for a day and then release Scarabs, rats and crows from about 3 feet away.
This teacher will be back in the system at another school next fall.
The cover up of abuse in public schools is something that needs to be brought to light.
Lock him/her up for child abuse and tag them a sexual predator.
If this is civilization, I will be a barbarian.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.


text:
Coyotes trapped by U.S. Department of Agriculture's Wildlife Services outside Tucumcari have tested positive for contagious-strain mange.
During a meeting of the Quay County Commission Monday, Ron Jones, USDA wildlife specialist, said two of 12 coyotes trapped in the past three weeks have tested positive for red mange.
Jones said the coyotes have moved closer to Tucumcari and residents have reported them killing cats and trying to get into yards after small dogs. He said because of the drought, the coyotes are moving closer to town in search of food.
"This drought has affected all of the wildlife in the county," Jones said.
Jones said residents still have grass, which attracts rabbits, prime prey for coyotes. He said this also exposes family pets as a potential food source.
Jones said coyotes carry mites, which can transmit the disease to a family's pet it encounters while searching for food. He said the coyotes testing positive were trapped south of the city near the New Mexico State Police headquarters on State Highway 209 and along Interstate 40 near Flying J.
Veterinarian Jean Corey told the commissioners she has diagnosed two cases of red mange in pets so far this year in Quay County.
Corey said this is the first year in her 30 years of practice in Quay County that she has seen this type of mange. She said mange is a highly contagious disease that is passed by contact with the infected animal and can potentially be passed to humans.
Corey said mange usually starts around the elbow area on the animals and looks crusty and then starts spreading to the legs, chest, stomach and possibly the ears. She said mange is very itchy so the animals are always scratching and making the sores worse.
Jones said in the advanced stages of red mange, coyotes have been seen with no hair on the bodies except for a few tufts of hair on the tails. He said their skin will turn a dark blue or black and will they will have sores all over their bodies from scratching.
Also on Monday:
- Commissioners approved the amended 2012-2013 Resolution No. 21 and Proclamation of Special Quay County election for Twelve Shores.
- Assessor Janie Hoffman recommended commissioners not to pass Resolution No. 22, property tax equity because of the language changes that were made.
- Extension Agent Tom Dominguez drafted a letter to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife services concerning the Lesser Prairie Chicken, opposing attempts to list it as a threatened species.
- Undersheriff Larry Cooksey said during the month of February the sheriff's office had four arrests, 385 service calls and two sex offender registrations.
- Road Superintendent Larry Moore said signs for Quay Road 64 has been installed, they will be adding stripes to the road and engineers have approved the project. Commissioners approved the 2013-2014 New Mexico Department of Transportation road projects funding application.
- The county extension office will be moving back in the Terry Turner building Monday.


text:
John Goldsby
© John Goldsby. All Rights Reserved.
About this image
About John Goldsby
CD/LP/Track Review
- Viewpoint by Dave Nathan
All About Jazz needs your help and we have a deal. Pay $20 and we'll hide those six pesky Google ads that appear on every page, plus this box and the slideout box on the right for a full year! You'll also fund website expansion.
© John Goldsby. All Rights Reserved.


text:
DomainToNSrecord DNS
From Paterva Wiki
This transform determines if an NS record exists for the given Domain. The NS record is the name server record and is returned as a NSrecord.This is normally used in the infrastructure footprinting of an organisation. A note of caution - it is not uncommon for organisations to unsource their name servers to their ISP or to the registrar of their domain. Thus - in terms of finding the network (e.g. resolving this to an IP address) of the target this has limited value - human inspection is advised.
Typical uses
Can be used in conjuction with the NSrecordToDomain_SharedNS transform as the first step to get the NS records for the domain.
Domain via transform DomainToDNSName_NS to
DNSName via transform DNSNameToDomain_SharedNS to Domain


text:
Browse by Title
|Title: : 1 of 1
From Cool Depths, 1928
Vasily KandinskyRussian, 1866-1944
Watercolor on wove paper, mounted on cardboard
sheet: 19 x 12-5/8 in. (48.3 x 32.1 cm); mount: 23-7/8 x 17-1/2 in. (60.6 x 44.5 cm)
Norton Simon Museum, The Blue Four Galka Scheyer Collection
© Norton Simon Museum
Not on view
The splatter technique, which Kandinsky used only in watercolor, lightens the mood and adds a fanciful warmth to the very pure, geometric composition.
View Provenance
|Title: : 1 of 1


text:
December 2006
Double Exposure
In the liner notes for this duo album recorded in 2000, drummer Brooks tells writer Bill Milkowski, "Every drummer can't play with an organ …because you have the organ player playing bass lines with his left hand but he's soloing with the right hand, so from time to time his ideas will either push him forward or push him backwards. He himself understands where the groove is at, so the organ drummer has to develop this thing to keep you locked in but stay flexible." Like Grady Tate, Joe Dukes and Donald Bailey—examples cited in the liner notes—Brooks has this ability, and so what we have here are enhanced, in-the-pocket organ grooves plus drum fills and solos expertly tailored to the genre.
Ludwig plays solid, old-school organ, beginning with the modal "On the Trail" and following with a tasteful, loungelike "Serenade in Blue." There is also "You've Changed," another good one in the ballad department. "I Can't Give You Anything But Love" is a bouncy block-chord performance—in the "Earl Gardner" style, according to Milkowski's notes. (Does he mean Earl Grant, or perhaps Billy Gardner? The only Earl Gardner I can find a reference to is the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra lead trumpeter.)
Brooks solos on the title tune (an original by the drummer) and Neal Hefti's "Cute," among others. Young drummers might listen closely and take a lesson in taste, compatibility and how to accompany as well as solo from this album. And there's Ludwig's experienced manner of swinging and building each performance, too.


text:
MSC transfer mode?
Hello -
I received a Insignia Sport for Mothers Day. Best Buy said my computer (Windows ME) would work with it. I can not get my computer to take the software, another gentleman sugguested maybe MSC transfer mode? Any ideas on how to do this?
Thanks so much for any help!
In my Insignia Sport 4GB, I got to the system settings, scroll down the botton to USB Mode, and choose Connection Type>>File and Folder
|All times are GMT -5. The time now is 07:28 PM.


text:
Hardware news tagged DirectX
Wednesday, December 25, 2013
A Look Into 2014: Microprocessors.
[1:54 pm]
Predictions and Expectations for 2014
Friday, November 22, 2013
AMD Mantle Adopted by Another Leading Game Developer.
[10:14 am]
Rebellion Entertainment Joins AMD Mantle Family
Monday, November 4, 2013
Several Leading Game Developers Adopt AMD's Proprietary Mantle API.
[1:20 pm]
Cloud Imperium, Eidos-Montréal and Oxide Adopt AMD Mantle
Monday, October 14, 2013
Microsoft: Xbox One Will Exclusively Rely on Direct3D 11 API.
[2:50 pm]
AMD's Mantle Not Supported by Xbox One
Thursday, October 3, 2013
AMD: Mantle Is Proprietary Now, But It Will Become Widely Available to Others.
[2:20 pm]
AMD Explains Why Mantle Is Not a New 3dfx Glide
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Vivante Unveils Vega GPU IP with OpenGL ES 3.0, OpenCL and DirectX Support.
[2:50 pm]
Vivante Promises New Level of GPU Performance at Low Power Levels
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Intel Introduces Two New DirectX Extensions to Speed Up Rendering in Video Games.
[2:55 pm]
Intel Extends DirectX 11.1 with Two New Performance-Boosting Extensions


text:
The Boston Bruins and Pittsburgh Penguins have cancelled their morning skates for Friday morning at TD Garden. The city of Boston, as well as several surrounding communities, are "locked down" by authorities as the search for one of the suspects involved in the Boston Marathon bombing on Monday continues. Government officials have ordered residents of the city to "shelter in place" until further notice.
Penguins, Bruins Cancel Morning Skates Amid Situation in Boston
From NHL.com
Use your ← → (arrow) keys to browse more stories
Photo Courtesy of Boston.com


text:
Swipe for more images
Men's PFG Big Katuna™ Short
Detailshttp://www.columbia.com/mens-pfg-big-katuna-short-FM4545.html FM4545
Style# 1438031
Greater Rewards members earn 700 points with purchase
Uses: Fishing
Size & Fit Guide | Reviewers rated this product Fits Slightly Small | Fit Modern Classic
Product Actions
Style# 1438031
Uses Fishing
Built expressly for life on the boat, this quick-drying performance short is crafted from a lightweight, comfortable fabric that repels water and shields the sun.
- Omni-Shade UPF 50 provides maximum protection for long hours in the sun
- Omni-Shield advanced repellency seals out water and stains
- Exterior adjustable waistband
- Sunglass cleaning patch
- Reinforced pliers pocket
- Modern Classic fit
- Imported
- Omni-Shade, Omni-Shield 94% nylon/6% elastane
Water and Stain Repellent
Water and Stain Repellent
Sun Protection
Sun Protection
Technology Videos
Helps you stay clean and dry by resisting absorption of liquids.
Blocks UVA and UVB rays to help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage.
Rated 5 out of 5 by 30 reviewers.
Rated 5 out of 5 by djohn71 best fishing shorts I have ever worn Have fished in them for over a year, mostly coastal inshore redfish and trout, including on pro redfish tourneys. Shorts are lite, cool and comfortable. Pockets are great, including the side pocket for my pliers and the built in cleaning cloth for your sunglasses. May 19, 2014
Rated 5 out of 5 by FishingIllini Big KaTuna Shorts Great fishing shorts! They fit great, have all the right pockets for a day on the water and are lightweight to keep you cool on those hot days. I also like that they dry quickly when they get wet. My only wish is that they would come in more colors! December 9, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by SouthernCross Perfect Fit & Function I did not expect these to fit so well, but they do. Good function for outdoor fishing, sailing or hiking and very light and packable. October 2, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by shorts Love it! live in it and it is very comfortable! September 23, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by CaptT Love the material and design The fit, design, fabric and colors are great. Love the pockets and flaps. Please add more color selections.... September 21, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by Gyno89 Men's Big Katuna Short Excellent fit and comfort , played golf today using them in the humid Caribbean heat and felt great. August 25, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by Noahlw Great shorts These are excellent fishing shorts. The pockets are very useful. The size is slightly smaller than normal; however, the velcro straps on the waist are very functional. August 12, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by Kuby05 Couldn't ask for better These shorts are awesome for fishing and kayaking! They repel water really well, dry in no time, and I had no problem wearing them all day. Bought 2 pairs and I'm glad I did. August 9, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by CaptJuan21 Best shorts ! I'm a charter boat captain in the Florida Keys and since first got this shorts can't seem to wear anything else. They fit to perfection and the pockets are just perfect. Like always Columbia delivers the best quality and comfort on the water and beyond. July 29, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by Gordy comfortable, functional and quick drying The Big KaTuna™ Shorts are very comfortable, dry fast and are very functional. I've had many brands and styles of fishing shorts and these are my all time favorite. July 29, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by 3underpar great pair of shorts As advertised and reviewed, these are excellent fishing shorts. Flexible, quick dry and lots of functional pockets. July 28, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by Basserjim Fishing Short Thru my guide biz, I fish over 150 days a year, so my clothing is really put to the test. It must be comfortable, fit well, have plenty of pockets and perform in hot humid weather. This short is one of the best fishing shorts I have ever owned. Large Reinforced pockets for pliers and "stuff. Cool, light weight, wicks moisture away and has UV protection....cant go wrong on these! July 22, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by eronje Great shorts, but run really small These shorts are maybe the best quality shorts I've ever laid eyes on, at least for someone like myself that is frequently on the water getting blasted by salt spray and in hot/humid conditions. Only problem is they run very small. I normally wear a 36 and I will have to get a 38 in these. I let my friend try them on he says he normally wears a 34 and the 36 fit him. July 19, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by Truchas Great Shorts These are my go-to shorts for kayaking and all warm weather outdoor activities. Think I'll get another pair. June 24, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by BrushyHillGuide Great Shorts! These are some of the best shorts I've ever bought. They're extremely comfortable with lots of pockets that don't balloon out. The materials are very durable and the plier pocket (right leg) has a lining in it that makes sure you don't ruin your shorts, or scratch your leg, running a pair of pliers in and out of it. The glass cleaning cloth sewn into the left leg is a handy thing when you're sweating in the heat or get some salt spray on your Costa's after you finish a fast run to your favorite back bay! The BEST thing about these shorts is the velcro tab that lets you tighten them, if you need to. This is especially handy after a long day fishing and the material stretches a bit; AND if your diet plan starts working! These shorts have become my favorite (non-board) short. As a full time professional hunting guide, my summers are, largely, free; and I spend them fishing. I'm pretty hard on clothing and these shorts are really holding up to all the abuse I've thrown at them! Whether I'm taking care of some stuff at the ranch or fishing the salt, these shorts are incredible. If you're looking for a great pair of fishing, or general purpose, shorts - look no further! June 18, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by Buehrle13 Great Dry fast light great fishing shorts June 2, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by teamclark Great Summer Active Sort Got these to wear at the race circuit on the weekends, fit was perfect, liked the adjustable waist tabs. Hard wearing, lots of pockets for items - stayed cool when temps got warm. Worn them once will be interested to see how they wear over time...great short just a little expensive but worth it. April 11, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by ScottSr Great features Need more colors, These are the best fishing shorts yet. December 11, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by Glyn The shorts are very comfortable and functional Very nice shorts that fit to size, are very comfortable and functional. They are quick to dry and the pockets are a good size. October 12, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by NothinbutFish Awesome shorts! These are some of the best shorts I have found. They are durable, fit well, look great and get tons of compliments around the dock and at fishing shows. The only bad is 3 colors. Bring us some more colors including kaki;-) September 12, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by sandersen68 awesome comfortable shorts! Excellent shorts very comfortable I will be buying another pair soon! August 25, 2012
Rated 4 out of 5 by LowCountryCharters Good product, little heavier than i expected The shorts are a great fit. come clean in the wash after fishing. Only downside is that they are a little heavier weight than i had expected. August 16, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by timboc Nice! These shorts are very nice. They perform as described and are worth the money. I just spent 9 days at the gulf coast, fishing like crazy and these shorts work! June 13, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by JoshuaH Great outdoors pant for more than just fishing These are great. Extremely rugged, but much lighter than cotton pants. Breathe well and very comfortable. Tons of pockets too. Been wearing them for a solid week since I got them! June 9, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by gbcrockett Not just for fishing What I want in a pair of shorts is good length (I'm very tall), good anti-wrinkle performance, and cargo pockets that don't look like cargo pockets, so I don't have to sit on my wallet and the shorts don't look out of place on a golf course. These qualify except for the big "Performance Fishing Gear" patches that are there for who knows what reason. Fortunately the patches are fairly easy to remove. I haven't had the shorts long enough to know whether the black stays black through multiple washings, but my initial impression is that these are great shorts. I found that I needed to order one size smaller than my usual. The ones in my usual size could be made to fit in the waist with the velcro pull tabs, but that doesn't look as good as having them fit right in the first place. The fabric is great; it's 100% nylon but doesn't have the shiny look or plastic feel of other nylon shorts I've had. Finally, as is the case with many Columbia products, more color choices would be good (but not "Mud", "Tank", "Slime Mold", or the like; regular clothing colors). May 24, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by BB71 Awesome shorts Got a second pair only real complaint I have is the velcro isn't very strong for trying to use it to reduce the waist size I find it pops off all the time. May 17, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by 3spots Big Performance Purchased for casual and fishing wear, thought they would be just shorts. No way! Not the Big Katuna's. They have a very comfortable and relaxed fit. The pockets accomodate pliers, cell phone, and many other various items. One of the pockets even has a sunglass cleaning cloth, cool. May 15, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by tigger2 shorts are hot stuff can't say enough about these shorts durable and comfortable and a best buy May 13, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by Jonwit Awesome shorts These shorts are awesome because they are outdoors, quick drying shorts that don't make you look like a nerd. Most outdoor hiking type shorts are too tight and too short and you like you're a nerd or from the 70s. These shorts, however, fit like a board short and are stylish (at least to somebody like me who wears their casual clothing a little baggier and more relaxed). Please make more hiking shorts that fit like these, Columbia. Dont be dorks! May 10, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by pooncrazy Awesome Shorts! I just got these and I will be ordering more! I love the velcro adjusting straps on the side! The attached sunglass wipe in the pocket is great being on saltwater all day and wearing the columbia shirts it will not clean your glasses now no problem. I hope you come out with a couple more colors being in Florida I can't wear black so I only have 2 colors to choose from. They are also very comfy too! Great job on these!! March 6, 2012
- 2016-10-31
- bvseo-cps-pl-PRR
- bvseo_lps, prod_bvrr, vn_prr_5.6
- cp-1, bvpage1
- co_hasreviews, tv_30, tr_30
- loc_en_US, sid_FM4545, prod, sort_default
1-30 of 30
Size & Fit Guide
Size Chart
Size & Fit Guide
Men's Fit Guide
Body contouring fit conforms to movement.
Body skimming fit with end-use mobility in mind.
Modern Classic / Regular
Universal, easy fit for comfortable range of motion.
Modern Classic / Regular
Most generous fit for a full spectrum of movement.
Men's Body Measurement (Inches)
Pant Size
|Sleeve Length
|Varies by Item
Pant Size
|Sleeve Length
|Varies by Item
How to Measure
- 1. Neck: Measure at the base or thickest part of your neck.
- 2. Chest/Bust: Measure at the fullest part of the chest, under the armpits and over the shoulder blades, keeping the tape measure firm and level.
- 3. Waist: Measure around the natural waistline, allowing the tape measure to sit comfortably.
- 4. Sleeves: Start at the center back of your neck and measure across the shoulder and down to the wrist. Round up to the next even number.
- 5. Inseam: Measure from the top of the interior leg to the bottom of the ankle.
- 6. Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
How to Measure
How to Measure
- Fold up at dotted line.
Place against a wall or other 90 degree surface.
Place heel against fold/wall on flat level surface.
- Mark the end of the longest toe with a pen or pencil.
- Measure both feet and use the larger measurement.
- Read measurement and compare to size chart.
- When comparing on the size chart, determine the closest larger measurement and use that number to determine your shoe size for your country's shoe measurement standard.
Shipping & Returns
Shipping & Returns
Shipping Information
|Shipping Method
|Expected Delivery Time
|UPS Ground
3-7 Business Days
ORDER BY: 10:00 PM PST on December 15th to arrive by the 25th.
|UPS 2-Day Air
2-3 Business Days
ORDER BY: 10:00 PM PST on December 19th to arrive by the 25th.
|UPS Overnight
1-2 Business Days
ORDER BY: 10:00 PM PST on December 20th to arrive by the 25th.
|Free Standard Shipping
|Available for Greater Rewards members. Learn more
Return Policy
Returns are accepted within 60 days of the purchase date online or in-store. Your apparel must be in original and unworn condition, with tags still attached. Footwear returns must also include the original box.
Still Have Questions
See our Customer Service section for more details. Visit Customer Service


text: Adobe Inn & Suites is centrally located in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Our hotel offers the best comfort and value you can find. We offer full amenities and provide an excellent space for just about any traveler or local guest.Let us help make your stay in Santa Fe memorable, affordable and fun!Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are always glad to help make your time with us, enjoyable and relaxing.


text:
EFF in the News
"The cost of reading the New York Times for free is being tracked. The cost of being on Facebook is being data-mined," Peter Eckersley, a senior staff technologist for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, said Friday at a panel discussion on the intersection of technology and privacy.
Twitter is working with Chilling Effects, a joint project of the Electronic Frontier Foundation and numerous schools including Harvard, Stanford, Berkeley, University of San Francisco and Santa Clara University School of Law clinics. The project deals with issues like Copyright, Domain Names and Trademarks, Anonymous Speech and Defamation. In an effort to be as transparent as possible, Twitter submits all copyright removal notices to @chillingeffects and they are now Tweeting them from @ChillFirehose.
Advocates for free speech argue "anonymity is crucial to the free flow of information on the Internet and preservation of civil rights," according to Mike Cronin in the October 16, 2010 Pittsburgh Tribune Review article "Internet Anonymity at Risk as Real Costs of Free Speech Weighed." And some experts say eliminating anonymity on the Internet is technically impossible (Cronin).
Rebecca Jeschke, a spokeswoman for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, states in Cronin's article, anonymity is about free speech and privacy. Many people do not want the things they say online to affect their offline identities. They have concerns about political or economic retribution, harassment and even threats to their lives. "'Whistle-blowers need anonymity. So do human rights workers who struggle against repressive governments, and victims of domestic violence who want to hide from their abusers'" (qtd. in Cronin). Jeschke also states that parents may want anonymity for children so they can safely surf the Internet.
Newly available documents shed light on such questions. Digital rights advocates at the Electronic Frontier Foundation have been suing federal agencies for months under the Freedom of Information Act with help from the Samuelson Clinic at UC Berkeley's School of Law. The goal was to force open policies that explain when social networking sites can be used for government surveillance, data collection and investigations.
Results made public so far by EFF are available below for more than a dozen sites in a chart built by the Center for Investigative Reporting. Old and new policies alike are posted next to the document year, so you can compare possible changes over time. EFF argues that the variety among them shows how "social networking sites have struggled to develop consistent, straightforward policies."
If you want HTTPS everywhere, the Electronic Frontier Foundation's (EFF) aptly named HTTPS Everywhere is a Firefox extension to provide that functionality. They also recommend KB SSL Enforcer for Chrome users, but have found that it isn't implemented as securely (which could be a limitation of the Chrome extension framework).
The Justice Department hopes to force ISPs to archive personal user data usage for help facilitate future law enforcement investigations, which puts the fate of our Internet privacy up in the air. Kevin Pereira talks to EFF's Richard Esguerra about the upcoming hearing and the details.
One of those questioning is Kevin Bankston, the senior staff attorney at the Electronic Frontier Foundation—a group that was instrumental in persuading a New York court not to allow law enforcement to secretly trace cell phone user's activities. Bankston is bleak about the future of American's privacy rights.
"We don't know what's coming next," he told us. "Because of the extensive secrecy surrounding law enforcement and intelligence investigation practices, every new revelation is just that: a revelation, and often a shocking one. "
Not surprisingly, that doesn't convince the Electronic Frontier Foundation, which says "A legal obligation to log users' Internet use, paired with weak federal privacy laws that allow the government to easily obtain those records, would dangerously expand the government's ability to surveil its citizens, damage privacy, and chill freedom of expression."
People were systematically redirected to phishing sites, HTTPS connections were blocked, and password stealing code was injected into the login pages of major websites", he said.
Then, he added, after Tunisian bloggers began being arrested, the Electronic Frontier Foundation requested that Facebook, Google and Yahoo should help to keep Tunisian accounts secure.
Privacy advocates have complained for years about Web users having little control over being tracked and targeted. The largest ad networks are operated by Google, Adobe, Yahoo, Microsoft and AOL. "We have seen the industry try, and fail, to self-regulate in this arena," says Rainey Reitman, analyst at the Electronic Frontier Foundation