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Do you want to make 2013 one of your most profitable years yet? According to MS International (MSI), the largest distributor of natural stone in the United States, more flooring retailers should be considering natural stone as an area for retail expansion.
Natural stone tile is a $1.1 billion dollar market, according to the 2011 Catalina Research report. This means that one out of every $8 of hard surface flooring purchased is natural stone tile.
"Flooring retailers should want to capture this business and not send their customers somewhere else to purchase their natural stone tiles," said Manny Llerena, director of sales and marketing for MSI. "Not only are they losing the natural stone tile business, but worse yet, they may lose their customers all together to someone that is meeting all of their needs."
There are many reasons why retailers shy away from selling natural stone. First, there are an overwhelming number of options, and for those dealers who are already selling ceramic and porcelain, it can be crushing to take on a new display system or incorporate another product category into an already jam packed store floor.
Another hurdle is product education. Natural stone comes with a lot of shade variation, so "perfection" may be difficult to achieve for some consumers. The most successful retailers sell the variation in stone just as they would natural wood: the variation is what makes it beautiful and unique to a customer's home.
Lastly, selling stones also means selling maintenance. But instead of seeing this as a hurdle, dealers can see it as a profit center. Natural stone should be sealed yearly, but this is something the homeowner can do.
Despite the challenges, natural stone offers a good opportunity for retailers to boost traffic, sales and their bottom line. It also opens up business for walls and countertops.
A recent survey of American homeowners shows they overwhelmingly recognize the value of granite countertops. The survey of 1,588 homeowners, conducted online by Harris Interactive on behalf of The Marble Institute of America, found that 75 percent of homeowners who intend to remodel their kitchens in the next two years indicated they want granite countertops and 76 percent of homeowners agreed with the statement "nothing beats the beauty and value of granite countertops."
The survey also shows that no matter what the economy looks like, homeowners recognize that granite countertops enhance the value of their homes, according to Marble Institute member, G.K. Naquin, of Stone Interiors in Loxley, Ala., whose company sells granite and other countertops. "Consumers who are remodeling their kitchens see granite countertops as a safe investment in their homes. They prefer this natural stone to other materials because they understand it pays for itself in terms of higher resale value."
In a time when granite countertops are becoming the norm for many homes, natural stone is being demanded for backsplashes and for walls due to the decorative nature of the assortment, said Raj Shah, co-president of MSI. "A dealer not offering and selling natural stone is missing a big portion of this ever-growing wall category," he said.
According to the December 2012 Catalina Research report, 74 percent of total ceramic tile sold is used on the floor and the other 26 percent is used on the wall. That means that today, one out of every four jobs sold are wall projects.
Selling stone can also be considered a natural evolution for the hard surfaces market.
"A few years back, ceramic tile was what retailers sold to their consumers and would have porcelain tiles as an upgrade for consumers wanting a better look," Llerena said. "Today, porcelain tile is what retailers primarily sell and natural stone tiles is taking that upgrade option position."
Indicators show that luxury business is bouncing back. According to the NAHB Research Center, the new luxury home segment increased to 18 percent of the market in 2011 — the same as during the housing boom years of 2004 and 2005.
"Census data revealed in 2012 that home size for the first two quarters was higher than it had ever recorded, which means that an increase in luxury homes after 2011 is probable," said Ed Hudson, director of research for the NAHB Research Center.
Compared to starter homes, the NAHB Annual Builder Practices Survey showed that luxury homes are twice as likely to have granite countertops and four times as likely to have a natural stone or brick patio pavers.
"This category will not only provides great added business, but it is also a high-margin opportunity which retailers so need to counter lower margins when having to compete with home center business," Llerena said.


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This family will hopefully bring you some Christmas cheer, as they have recently started an organization called Child Restoration where 20 % of the proceeds go to help build an orphanage for kids in India! They carry the most beautiful jewelry, scarves and purses! You can find out more here on FB and can even host your own party! The Lewis family has 3 handsome boys that are full of joy and energy. Thanks for allowing me to document your family! Complete styling brought to you by the AMAZING Jill Carter of Common Couture. Jill outdid her self on this shoot! Thank you Jill!
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Online Community Vendor Matrix
September 1, 2015
Use this matrix to obtain information about key vendors that can help you build your online community.
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The decision to base Survivor teams on race and ethnicity drags the issue out of the shadows
By ERIC DEGGANS
Published August 25, 2006
The first call came late Wednesday, from a friend at USA Today who wanted my opinion about reality TV's latest excess: the decision by producers of CBS's Survivor series to separate its competing "tribes" of contestants by race and ethnicity.
That's right. In addition to the insanity of sticking 20 people on the Cook Islands, Survivor creator Mark Burnett has decided to add the friction of race and ethnic differences to the mix, splitting the teams into exclusively black, Asian, Hispanic and white competitors.
On Thursday, CNN's Headline News and CBS Radio also came calling. Intrigued by an analysis I'd posted on my blog Wednesday, they all wanted this critic of color to weigh in on the question of the moment: Is CBS now prepared to exploit racial strife for ratings gain?
Well, duh - of course. But I had a different take than many commentators who have quite rightly, observed that this is hardly what the Kerner Commission had in mind when it urged TV executives back in 1968 to fully integrate black people "into all aspects of televised programming."
I say, it's about time.
I've written before on how Burnett has used race as a subtext in his reality shows, particularly Survivor and the Apprentice.
On these shows, race difference plays out as a parable on assimilation - the people of color who understand white culture and can fit in survive, often by being as bland and undistinguished as possible.
Those who don't, wind up fulfilling the worst stereotypes. Their exclusion makes them racially paranoid, their inability to bond with their teammates makes them look lazy and their defensiveness looks like an empty excuse. Yes, Omarosa Manigault Stallworth, I'm talking about you.
Given that history, I don't blame those who are concerned about the image of minorities in modern media for feeling apprehensive about the latest Survivor. But at least Burnett is going to make race a front-and-center discussion, after years of shrugging off the implications of his portrayals.
This scheme follows Burnett's gimmicks of stirring up friction - and viewer interest - by dividing teams according to gender or education. Race and ethnicity seem the next frontiers for a reality TV showman determined to keep his powerhouse alive for another season.
You've got what you wanted, Mark. The world is watching. Here's hoping you show us something worth all the hoopla.
Eric Deggans can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com or 727 893-8521. See his blog at www.sptimes.com/blogs/media.
[Last modified August 25, 2006, 05:54:39]
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Skip to comments.Scientists Receive Death Threats For Questioning Mans Role in Global Warming
Posted on 03/11/2007 2:05:26 PM PDT by SandRat
Think those advancing anthropogenic global warming theories are serious about their views? Well, an article from Sundays Telegraph should scare every person around the world about the zealotry and danger surrounding this issue (emphasis mine throughout):
Scientists who questioned mankind's impact on climate change have received death threats and claim to have been shunned by the scientific community.
They say the debate on global warming has been "hijacked" by a powerful alliance of politicians, scientists and environmentalists who have stifled all questioning about the true environmental impact of carbon dioxide emissions.
Shocked? Astounded? Thats only the beginning:
Timothy Ball, a former climatology professor at the University of Winnipeg in Canada, has received five deaths threats by email since raising concerns about the degree to which man was affecting climate change.
One of the emails warned that, if he continued to speak out, he would not live to see further global warming.
Why is this happening in Balls view:
"Western governments have pumped billions of dollars into careers and institutes and they feel threatened," said the professor.
"I can tolerate being called a sceptic because all scientists should be sceptics, but then they started calling us deniers, with all the connotations of the Holocaust. That is an obscenity. It has got really nasty and personal."
Other well-known skeptics agreed with Ball:
Richard Lindzen, the professor of Atmospheric Science at Massachusetts Institute of Technology - who also appeared on the documentary - recently claimed: "Scientists who dissent from the alarmism have seen their funds disappear, their work derided, and themselves labelled as industry stooges."
"Consequently, lies about climate change gain credence even when they fly in the face of the science."
Dr Myles Allen, from Oxford University, agreed. He said: "The Green movement has hijacked the issue of climate change. It is ludicrous to suggest the only way to deal with the problem is to start micro managing everyone, which is what environmentalists seem to want to do."
Nigel Calder, a former editor of New Scientist, said: "Governments are trying to achieve unanimity by stifling any scientist who disagrees. Einstein could not have got funding under the present system."
Its getting scary out there, folks.
I wonder if there was a survey done, what percentage of people on the left believe in the "global Warming" hype?and vice versa.
Is this any different from what happened when some questioned if DDT was truly the harmful and evil chemical that was claimed just a few decades back?
The fact of the matter is, the TRUTH gets in the way of the CONTROL that some would like to exercise over society and the world. Questioning power can be awfully dangerous...
This new Religion has already become more fanatical than many in the Muslim persuasion.
just not as violent......yet
Why do I get the felling that Tom Clancey's fictional book "Rainbow-Six" is beginning to play out before our very eyes in real life.
There is big $$$ to be made in carbon indulgences and reducing the carbon footprints of the rich. I wonder where the Mafia stands on this issue.
There is no need for this anymore than questioning whether the sun will rise in the east. GW is orthodox doctrine in the religion of the left,
This is the sentence that took my eye. There should be no threat for these freeloaders sucking off government money. It is their obligation to retrain for a new job. We are expected to do it--even some after years in a particular field. Global Economy.
Just ask them if their glass overflows when the ice in their drink melts.
It's the Old Catholic Church all over again...but the former victims are now the victimizers. You would have thought they would have learned.
Enviromentalism and Global Warming: The New Religion-Believe or Die. (darn, that sounds familiar)
"Is this any different from what happened when some questioned if DDT was truly the harmful and evil chemical that was claimed just a few decades back?"
J. Gordon Edwards used to eat DDT to prove it's harmlessness. He did it for years before finally dying of a heart attack at the age of 84, while mountain climbing.
"Rainbow Six" was great! Have you read Michael Crichton's "State of Fear"? Similar premise, but more humorous in spots.
Well then, see! He DID die, after all! /sarc
Haven't read that. When I discovered FR, and with all the reading that I have for Scouts my pleasure reading time has been next to zilch save for about 30 minutes in the morning waiting for the doors at work to open. Even then it's work, FR, or Scouts related. ---sigh-- someday
When I was a kid they use to announce the day before that the truck spraying DDT would be coming through town. As I recall at least a dozen boys on bicycles would follow behind the truck, and the plumes of spray coming out of the pipes.
Click pn POGW graphic for full GW rundown
Ping me if you find one I've missed.
Bump for later
This is a serious issue and you shouldn't make light of it. Man has done so much damage, it is starting to impact the entire solar system Mars is Melting (NASA). WE'RE ALL GONNA DIE!!!
They start on us next....BRING IT ON!!!
However, the human impact IS a big hoax.
Send the DUmmies over the edge by responding that you told your grand kids to only rent apartments above the 5th floor! Liberals, having a poorly developed sense of humor and an overdeveloped sense of self-righteousness, will likely blow a fuse at this point. Lots of fun!
Read and get information for your friends and neighbors --
There are a few for starters....
Star Traveler
If heretics are to be burned at the stake they must have purchased enough carbon credits to offset their carbon footprint.
Leftism can't survive without lies.
Also, people might check out this radio program --
Jan Markel, KKMS in Minnesota -- http://www.olivetreeviews.org/
The radio programs (for several years) are here at --
There is a program that she just did --
Christian scientist Dr. Michael Coffman analyzes the politics and "religion" of the environmental movement. Parts are rooted in pantheism. He categorically denies man-made global warming and gives easy-to-understand scientific reasons as to why the sky is not falling with regards to this issue. Global warming is natural and cyclical. In the 1970s people were concerned about a coming "ice age." Al Gore is partly responsible for the present-day hype.
This guy's web site is -- http://www.discerningtoday.org/
Star Traveler
". . .they mean to rule well - but they mean to rule." - Daniel Webster
Lots of charts here --
Star Traveler
You should have told them that, unlike their grandchildren, yours would be smart enough to start wading towards the new shoreline when the water reached their knees.
Good link. Thanks.
The Brave New "Science" will be ruled by the mob.
This is probably mainly true and only beginning. I was comparing the True Believers to the moslemist extremists a few days ago and it was disquieting for sure.
The Mafia, if there is such a thing, has a superior moral basis than do these scammers.
"We have to offer up scary scenarios, make simplified, dramatic statements, and make little mention of any doubts we may have. Each of us has to decide what the right balance is between being effective and being honest."
Stephen Schneider (leading advocate of the global warming theory)
(in interview for Discover magazine, Oct 1989)
All this is part of the guerrilla warfare that is going on between proponents and skeptics of global warming. Dennis Deming, a climate scientist at the University of Oklahoma, recently told the Senate about his experience in the field:
In 1995, I published a short paper in the academic journal Science. In that study, I reviewed how borehole temperature data recorded a warming of about one degree Celsius in North America over the last 100 to 150 years. The week the article appeared, I was contacted by a reporter for National Public Radio. He offered to interview me, but only if I would state that the warming was due to human activity. When I refused to do so, he hung up on me.
With the publication of the article in Science, I gained significant credibility in the community of scientists working on climate change. They thought I was one of them.... One of them let his guard down. A major person working in the area of climate change and global warming sent me an astonishing email that said: "We have to get rid of the Medieval Warm Period.">-- Nir J Shaviv
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.


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Car Hits Pole In City
A car struck a pole on Beechview Avenue around 4:30 p.m. Sunday. A medical condition caused the driver of the pictured car to pass out, according to first responders at the scene. The driver was transported to WCA Hospital by Alstar Ambulance. Jamestown police and fire departments also responded to the scene. No additional information was available at press time.
P-J photo by Scott Shelters


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Can Brand Awareness Generate Measureable ROI?
May 14, 2012
According to this article by the Lenskold Group, awareness is an important metric to measure as it can be a major barrier when trying to influence purchase decisions.
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During its inaugural year in 1969, Appalachia Service Project, a national ministry for home repair, established its first work camp center at Union College, which housed 50 volunteers who repaired four Knox County homes.
This summer, ASP again moved to campus for several weeks, repairing 14 homes—including 11 in the Stinking Creek area—with the help of 501 volunteers.
Annie White, center director for the Knox County team, said the four-person leadership group was able to complete $40 thousand in repairs to roofs, floors and drainage systems. They also remodeled homes and built one new-room addition.
White said that working in Knox County was a rewarding, enriching experience, not only because of the help she and her team could provide to the area, but also because of the natural beauty.
"Compared to other places I have worked, I absolutely loved being in Knox County," White said. "It is a beautiful area with beautiful scenery, and the people are so friendly."
She added that it was also nice to work the area where ASP got its start. Since the program began in Barbourville 44 years ago, it has expanded to serve 32 counties in five central Appalachian states.
White was joined this summer by three other permanent staff: Anthony Reyna, volunteer coordinator; Katie Glowicki, finance coordinator; and Virginia Debbink, operations coordinator. The staff and volunteers were housed on Union's campus, free of charge.
The history of ASP is long and rich and begins in Knox County. Under the leadership of ASP's founder the late Rev. Glenn "Tex" Evans, a small group of volunteers succeeded in making just a few Barbourville homes warmer, safer and drier. This team had $800 to buy materials and maintain "Pinky," their first donated vehicle, which was a pink station wagon. Evans had served as director at Henderson Settlement in Frakes, Ky., where he saw the region's housing needs. He is often quoted as saying, "We accept people right where they are, just the way they are."
Today, the number of volunteers has grown to over 300,000, who have repaired more than 15,000 homes in 31 impoverished Appalachian communities. The Christian approach fosters transformational experiences for everyone involved and builds relationships that break down cultural, social and economic barriers. The particular focus to recruit young volunteers encourages the development of service-minded communities.
Union hosts Appalachia Service Project, which completes $40 thousand in home repairs
During its inaugural year in 1969, Appalachia Service Project, a national ministry for home repair, established its first work camp center at Union College, which housed 50 volunteers who repaired four Knox County homes.


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About the Author: Kira Vuille-Kowing serves in the Office of Policy and Public Outreach in the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs.
Earlier this week, Daniel A. Clune, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS) of State for the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES), visited a family-run water service provider and several homes benefiting from this service in Cambodia's Khsach Kandal District. PDAS Clune's personal conversations with several of the households made an indelible impression that the United States is dedicated to a water-secure future; a future in which everyone has the water they need for health, economic growth, and security.
Located less than 30 miles from Phnom Penh, these projects are supported by the USAID Cambodia Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Project, an initiative that facilitates technical and business assistance to thousands of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in rural Cambodia. A component of MSME encourages Cambodian water service providers to expand their supplies of piped clean drinking water to rural households by building or upgrading their infrastructure. PDAS Clune said, "Most importantly, this approach strengthens -- rather than undermines -- local small businesses and entrepreneurs and therefore builds in an element of sustainability and innovation often missing in other development projects."
During his visit, he observed how Cambodian water providers go from informally pumping untreated water to becoming licensed providers who distribute safe drinking water to families. The project he visited will eventually serve over 50,000 Cambodian citizens. At the end of the visits, PDAS Clune praised the project for rising to meet the water challenges in Cambodia, saying "I commend you for making a difference in the daily lives of your families, friends, and neighbors who will benefit from improved access to clean water."


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"Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." Lord Acton
Anthony Bradley, Ph.D. is Associate Professor of Theology and Ethics in the Public Service Program at The King's College in New York City and serves as a Research Fellow at the Acton Institute.
Dr. Bradley lectures at colleges, universities, business organizations, conferences, and churches throughout the U.S. and abroad. His books include: Liberating Black Theology: The Bible and the Black Experience in America (2010), Black and Tired: Essays on Race, Politics, Culture, and International Development (2011), The Political Economy of Liberation: Thomas Sowell and James Cone of the Black Experience (2012), Keep Your Head Up: America's New Black Christian Leaders, Social Consciousness, and the Cosby Conversation (2012), Aliens in the Promised Land: Why Minority Leadership Is Overlooked in White Christian Churches and Institutions (forthcoming, 2013).
Dr. Bradley's writings on religious and cultural issues have been published in a variety of journals, including: the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Detroit News, and World Magazine. Dr. Bradley is called upon by members of the broadcast media for comment on current issues and has appeared C-SPAN, NPR, CNN/Headline News, and Fox News, among others. He studies and writes on issues of race in America, hip hop, youth culture, issues among African Americans, the American family, welfare, education, and modern slavery. From 2005-2009, Dr. Bradley was Assistant Professor of Systematic Theology and Ethics at Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis, MO where he also directed the Francis A. Schaeffer Institute.
Dr. Bradley holds Bachelor of Science in biological sciences from Clemson University, a Master of Divinity from Covenant Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Westminster Theological Seminary. Dr. Bradley also holds an M.A. in Ethics and Society at Fordham University.
The Acton Institute is funded through the generous contributions of individuals such as yourself. Learn more about how you can advance the cause of freedom and virtue.
© 2017 Acton Institute


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Lyon County has Truth In Taxation meeting
MARSHALL – There was a very small audience and no public comments Tuesday night at the Lyon County Truth In Taxation meeting. Although only one member of the public was present, and didn't stay for the entire meeting, Lyon County staff and commissioners reviewed the proposed 2014 budget and levy.
The county will adopt an official levy at a meeting on Dec. 17.
The preliminary levy for 2014 is about $12.73 million, said Lyon County Administrator Loren Stomberg. That's an increase of about 4.7 percent from the 2013 levy, at $12.1 million. However, the county has kept to a $12.1 million levy since 2008.
Stomberg went through the proposed 2014 budget, broken down by county departments. Employee salaries accounted for some budget increases in a few county departments. Stomberg said the county has added some positions in the past year, in the auditor/treasurer, county attorney, assessor, parks and maintenance departments. Stomberg said the county also "took a huge hit" in insurance premium costs, with the budget going from $45,000 in 2013 to $103,000 in 2014. Meanwhile, he said, the county was expecting to see less in insurance refunds and dividends.
Stomberg said one factor that would be affecting the 2014 budget was an exemption for some sales and use taxes from the state. Starting in 2014, county governments, and cities with a population higher than 500 will be exempt from paying sales taxes on some items, like office supplies or materials. Based on the amount of sales and use taxes paid by Lyon County in 2012, the exemption will save the county an estimated $135,000 in the coming year, Stomberg said.
Commissioners' discussion Tuesday night was focused less on specific budget numbers and more on questions of efficiency in hiring, especially in the highway maintenance department. The proposed 2014 budget for maintenance salaries was about $763,000, compared to about $586,000 in 2013. Commissioners debated whether the department needed more full-time maintenance workers, as opposed to making use of part-time workers. Commissioners Charlie Sanow and Rick Anderson said they would like to see a workforce plan for the county highway department.
Stomberg said commissioners would set a final 2014 budget and levy at later this month. The board will take action on the budget and levy at 1 p.m. on Dec. 17.


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The cake is perfect mixture of chocolate and fruits. The lovely combination of fruit and chocolate make the taste exclusive and unique. Try the unique flavor to surprise someone who loves to taste variety. Also availale in other shape and sizes. Very nice cake to order online for adoni.
* The photos are indicative only. Actual design and arrangement might differ based on chef seasonal elements and ingredient availability.
* All the cakes are recommended to be consumed within 4 hours of delivery. After that cake test might not be the best even if you keep cake in refrigerator/deep freezer.
* Any complain related to cake quality to be raised within 4 hours of the delivery. Post 4 hours of delivery no complain related to cake quality will be entertained.


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Mercury Drug STA. CRUZ – CENTRAL MARKET
Address: ZURBARAN COR FELIX HUERTAS Manila 1003 Metro Manila
Telephone Number: (02) 735-0489
Business Hours (Store opening and closing hours): 7:00AM – 10:00PM
Click this link to see the list of Mercury Drug stores in the Philippines
Please call the store first to confirm business operating hours.
Head Office Contact Information:
Mercury Drug Corporation
7 Mercury Ave., cor. E. Rodriguez Jr., Bagumbayan 1110 Quezon City
Telephone Number: (632) 911-5071 to 87
Fax Number: (632) 911-6673
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
For the complete and up to date list of Mercury Drug stores, online order, suki card, and promos, please visit the official Mercury Drug store website at http://www.mercurydrug.com


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Noah's ARC/ Salvation Army OC Student Challenge
Noah's ARC Design Challange is 4 school design challange in OC,CA for The Savaltion Army of OC. The goal is to design a 12x12 space with material found at the Salvation Army. This is Westwoods College final titled Neo Classical Rock.
Team Westwood (from Lt to RT) Michael Kramer, Amanda Puruggana , Lacretia Vrendenburgh, Alicia Ho, Nick Virus


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If the guy who made this had just not included the Miley parts, I would thoroughly enjoy it.
But they are just so goddamn grating. "Party in the USA" is one of the most grating hits of all time. "like yeaaaah" ugh, is that really where we are at as a culture?


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Best Views in the House
Quite possibly Palm Beach County's most recognizable landmark, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse is one of 31 Florida lighthouses. The first order Fresnel lens light atop the bright red beacon was first lit in 1860, guiding salty seafarers ever since. Standing a commanding 108 feet tall (156 feet above sea-level overall), guests are welcomed to climb the spiraling 105 metal stairs to catch one of the most spectacular views in the county—25 miles on a clear day.
Situated on the Jupiter Inlet Outstanding Natural Area—the Bureau of Land Management's only east coast Outstanding Natural Area—the lighthouse and its adjacent museum, housed in a restored WWII Naval housing quarters, is operated by the Loxahatchee River Historical Society. On top of their daily lighthouse operations—the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse is still an operating lighthouse, helping guide boaters through the rather difficult portion of the Jupiter Inlet and its surrounding shores—the crew at JILM operate weekly daily lighthouse tours, sunset and full moon tours (a great opportunity to catch the view atop the crows nest), story time for kids, yoga classes with Mary Veal of Kula Yoga Shala on Mondays, and historical hikes along the property, among much more.
The site of the lighthouse used to be the hub of South Florida, well before Flagler built his East Coast Railroad, when it was the sire of a steamboat port-o-call and station for the Celestial Railroad that ran to Lake Worth. Now, the site is a working historical landmark. One of the best ways to experience the lighthouse is during a sunset or moonrise tour.
On September 27, the moon will be going super-sized, and set to rise at 7:02 p.m. Take in earth's natural satellite in all its supermoon glory on the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse's Moonrise Tour. Set for September 27 at 6:15 p.m., guests can hike the 105 metal steps as the sun begins its fiery descent and the moon rises from the eastern horizon like a pale oceanic orb. Make your way out of the lantern room and along the widow's walk for some of the best views in PBC. Unfortunately, the tour will end before the Supermoon Lunar Eclipse begins, but it is the perfect primer for the super rare lunar event.
- Moonrise Tours run 75 minutes and cost $20 per person ($15 for members). Reservations are required; call 561-747-8380 ext. 101 to book a spot. The next Moonrise Tour will take place on October 27.
If the moonrise tour is booked, no worries, the lighthouse runs sunset tours every Wednesday. And before that dastardly daylights saving steals an hour of our afternoon, guests get a double whammy on the tour: sunset and moonrise. Admission is $20 per person, and times depend on sunset; call 561-747-8380 ext. 101 for the schedule.
- For more information, visit jupiterlighthouse.org.


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About the Author: Emma Kelsey serves as an intern in the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs.
Did you know that today over half the world's population lives in cities? With an estimated one billion people living in slums, innovative solutions are needed to provide sustainable urban housing for the poor. This problem is exacerbated in Latin America, where according to UN Habitat, over 80 percent of the region's population now live in urban areas. To that end, the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs is co-sponsoring an initiative with the Government of Brazil that focuses on sustainable development for the urban poor across the Americas.
Under the Energy and Climate Partnership of the Americas (ECPA), an international conference entitled "Sustainable Urban Planning and Energy Efficiency Construction for Low-income Areas of the Americas," will take place November 4-5 in Rio de Janeiro. This conference will bring together governments and urban planners to communicate best practices for sustainable, energy-efficient development, and provide technical assistance to Latin American and Caribbean communities.
Identifying new strategies to address the issues of sustainability and energy efficiency will not only unleash economic opportunities for the urban poor, but also create more resilient, livable communities for millions worldwide. Among these strategies, practitioners and urban planners will focus on green buildings, energy efficient housing for the poor, sustainable public transport, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from solid waste.
This has major implications not only for the region's energy security and climate, but also for persistent issues such as citizens' security and social and financial inclusion. Given the high rate of urbanization, support for this initiative offers the potential to spark a significant long term reduction of the carbon footprint of cities.
For more information visit ecpaplanning.org and ecpaamericas.org.
John N. in Canada writes:
Good summary, Emma! Strategies are tough, and some of the BIGGEST challenges are in United States itself, as so many cities were developing along with freeways, cheap energy and "limitless space" for suburbs. For sustainability, Curitiba will be a model for some, and for those of us who live in Cascadia region of North America (British Columbia south, Oregon, Washington State), our models tend to be local - parts of Vancouver, Portland, Seattle, Victoria. However so much to do! Very glad that Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs is hosting the conference.


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We've seen numerous Greatest Hits packages over the years by our man Macca. What about a collection of the videos to his singles? A "Greatest Flix", if you will? Me, I haven't seen any of the vids for his singles - except a little bit of Ebony & Ivory, and Mull Of Kintyre. I'd like to know what I'm missing here!
The difference between genius and insanity is merely the difference between success and failure.


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About the Author: Beau Miller serves in the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam.
At the first-ever "Beauty Plus" pageant for women living with HIV, there was hardly a dry eye in the audience as U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Michael W. Michalak crowned the winner, and parents, siblings, children and friends rushed the stage with flowers for all of the 15 finalists.
The event was hosted by the Bright Futures Network of people living with HIV in Hanoi, with financial and technical support from the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), and in collaboration with the Center for Supporting Community Development Initiative and Vietnam Television's youth-focused channel VTV6.
After two preliminary rounds in October, the finale was held November 14 at the Vietnam Youth Theater, with live footage beamed around the country on channel VTV6. Top honors of the night went to Ms. Tran Thi Hue, a 27-year-old outreach worker with the Hanoi Reproductive Health Center and member of the Bright Futures Network self-help group of Ha Nam province. Ms. Nghiem Thi Lan, 30, and Ms. To Thi Tuyet, 32, were first and second runners-up.
Among the many factors considered by the star-studded jury was each contestant's HIV/AIDS-related social work. Jury members include fashion designer Xuan Thu, TV journalist Ta Bich Loan, artist Le Khanh, and Miss Sports Vietnam 2007 Tran Thi Quynh.
"What these women have suffered from reminds us of the need to strengthen our efforts to stop the spread of HIV," noted Mr. Ong Van Tung, Coordinator of the Bright Futures Network. "However, the fact that they are all beautiful, happy and full of energy after years of living with HIV is evidence that HIV treatment programs work. There are drugs to lengthen the life of people with AIDS, but these people can only have a happy and productive life by overcoming stigma and discrimination, and can exercise their rights to education, employment, health care and social support."


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Jay Leno has made amusing, mistaken, and otherwise notable newspaper headlines a staple of his show. Recently, his rivals got into the media mistake act. This could either be a disconcerting example of kicking newspapers when they're down, or perhaps it's late night comedy's way of reminding people that newspapers are still relevant. Either way, it's been an amusing few weeks.
Last week comic Andy Kindler appeared on Late Show with David Letterman. Kindler, an occasional correspondent for the show, makes a habit of calling out other comedians and the industry as a whole during his annual "State of the Industry" address at the Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal.
I interviewed him a couple of years ago and listened to him launch bombs at Larry the Cable Guy, Wayne Brady, and Will Ferrell for his role in Blades of Glory. "I love Will Ferrell, but I don't want to see Will Ferrell holding up the guy from Napoleon Dynamite while on skates," he said.
Of particular note is the fact that Kindler had nothing but nice words for Letterman when we spoke. But that didn't appear to be the case when he was interviewed by a fellow Montreal journalist just a couple of months ago. The Gazette of Montreal quoted Kindler as saying, "Bottom line is that Letterman is unwatchable now."
As soon as he took his seat next to Letterman, Kindler began explaining that he had been misquoted. Letterman even pitched in by holding up a copy of the article in question. Here's the full bit, which starts at about the 1:30 mark:
For his part, the writer that misquoted Kindler (disclosure: he's a friend of mine) had published a correction in a subsequent column before Kindler went on the show:
Because of an unfortunate static disruption while recording an interview with comic Andy Kindler for my column of Jan. 21—about the death of political comedy with the departure of Dubya—a key word, "not," went missing. The Kindler quote should have read: "Bottom line is that only Letterman is not unwatchable now." And not: "Letterman is unwatchable now."
Kindler's concern over this omission is not unwarranted: he is an occasional correspondent for Letterman's Late Show. "The ironic part of this mix-up is that David Letterman is one of the few people whose comedy I have unconditional love for," Kindler says. "I think that's the proper context for the word 'irony.' If it's not, that would be ironic."
However, and not surprisingly, Kindler still stands by his statement that with little to mock about Barack Obama for the time being, he will start focusing more on Jay Leno, "the next big threat facing our country."
But Kindler's frustration was tame compared to Conan O'Brien's reaction to the New York Times. In early February, O'Brien lost it over a correction he spotted in the paper:
An article on Tuesday about a newly discovered form of boron misstated the number of pure forms of the element. It is four, including the new one, not three.
As noted by CJR's Curtis Brainard, O'Brien proceeded to reprimand the paper for its careless error. O'Brien brought out a visual aid to explain the four forms of boron and concluded that the Times should "Stick to wine reviews and profiles of Liev Schreiber because when it comes to science, you're nothing but a bunch of boron morons!"
Here's the full performance:
Kenneth Chang, the Times writer responsible for the error later proudly declared that, "in 2009, 100 percent of the corrections generated by my articles have showed up on late-night television. (Okay, I'm one-for-one, but I can aim for Letterman or Colbert next.)"
Judging from recent events, he's got a decent shot of making it happen.
Correction of the Week
A photo caption on Tuesday's Page A8 said a student was performing the Heimlich maneuver on a dummy. The student was actually playing around and pretending to choke the dummy.— The News Tribune (Washington State)
Fuzzy Numbers etc.
Kanaan Marcelino, 19, was arrested by the Tulare County Sheriff's Department on suspicion of having unlawful sex with a minor more than three years younger than he is. A news brief in Tuesday's Local section incorrectly said Marcelino was arrested for engaging in sexual acts with a minor 3 years old or younger.—Fresno Bee
Parting Shot
A reliable source: Research for our feature article about Kalgoorlie's 1934 race riots led us to write that British miner Charles Stokes was shot in the stomach (The race riots that split a town, West Weekend Magazine, March 14). A reader has told us that Mr Stokes, whose dying words were "a ding got me", was in fact Australian-born of an English mother and he was stabbed, not shot. The reader should know. She is his daughter.—The West Australian


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Brazil's Badwater: The Brazil 135
A journey through jungles, villages and hailstorms, fueled by determination and camaraderie
At 10 a.m. on Wednesday, January 15, I land at Rio de Janeiro International Airport and call my wife of 21 years, Monica, who is Brazilian, to let her know we've arrived safely. Two days later, I'll be running the Brazil 135 Ultramarathon—my second time doing so—along with two friends, Kellie and Kevin. It will be both of their first 135-mile races. Kevin's girlfriend, Liana, has also come along to crew for us.
"Why didn't you come to Brazil?" Liana asks my wife over the phone.
"Oh, you'll understand why soon," she tells her.
Kevin asks me where and what time we are supposed to meet my Brazilian brother-in-law, Alex, a former pro surfer, who plans to help crew for us. I have to be honest and admit I have absolutely no idea, and that Alex doesn't have a phone … unpredictable; welcome to Brazil.


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A Fast Day On The Ridge
Mike Wolfe and Daniel Kraft both break the course record at Montana's Bridger Ridge Run; two veterans go down to the wire in the women's race
Photo by John Morris
Although Mike Wolfe (pictured above) had doubts about his racing form going into the Bridger Ridge Run Saturday, he certainly didn't show it.
"Since Western, I've felt flat, like my recovery has taken longer than normal," says Wolfe. "Maybe I did too much too soon right after Western."
Feeling "flat," in his case, translated to winning the rugged 20-mile race outside Bozeman, Montana, in 3:00:24—over six minutes under Scott Creel's 2007 course record of 3:06:30. Daniel Kraft of Grand Junction, Colorado, also finished under Creel's record, crossing the line in 3:05:27. Missoula, Montana's Mike Foote finished third in 3:22:28.
Wolfe, who also lives in Missoula, says he cut his training volume significantly in the three weeks leading up to Bridger, and that he knew his fitness was much improved compared to the last time he ran the race six years ago. So, he went into race day with the goal of not only breaking Creel's course record but breaking the three-hour mark, too. "In my mind, I've had a disappointing race season this year," he says. "I was keen to have a good race last weekend."
Though the women's field was missing the top-end talent it usually draws—Bozeman's own perennial favorite and course record-holder, Nikki Kimball (she ran a 3:43:49 in 2009), was not competing, and Boulder, Colorado's Krissy Moehl pulled out just before the race with an injury—it was still a dramatic and close-fought affair. Bozeman's Minde Erickson finished barely two minutes ahead of Jackson, Wyoming's Alyssa Larsen, and the two Bridger Ridge veterans were never more than a few minutes apart throughout the race. Erickson took a wrong turn partway through the race, allowing Larsen to lead, but with less than a mile remaining, Larsen chose a difficult route down a steep descent. Erickson took an easier route and pulled ahead, holding the lead to the finish in 4:13:17. Larsen crossed the line in 4:15:22.
Race Director David Summerfield noted that the course was in good condition thanks to last-minute luck. "After a whole summer of no rain, the conditions up in the Bridger Range were bleak. The dirt had turned to dust and the steep portions were covered in loose pebbles," he says. "I requested rain, and it came in a torrent Friday night. … The trail conditions could not have been better."
Not that the course was particularly easy.


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quote The5thAvacadoAt least 2 Legendary Loot Midgets, often 3, sometimes 4.I'm assuming that exploits the guaranteed Loot Midgets. How do you farm them and then reset them?
quote Shadow of DeathI'm assuming that exploits the guaranteed Loot Midgets. How do you farm them and then reset them?quote The5thAvacadoI have like 700 hours on the game, that might be a factor. I also play at least an hour per session usually.Shadow of Death, I don't know where you find the time or the luck to pick up what you pick up. I feel when I play I get one or two purples per session and maybe the occasional orange every 20 sessions. Yours are purrty...
When in UVHM, getting Purples are more likely, as are Legendary items. Using the Doctor's Orders method in UVHM is probably the easiest way to get Legendary gear.
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Click HERE to read an interview Travie McCoy of Gym Class Heroes did with the Omaha World Herald.
There's a lot of double entendres and a lot of slick tongue action. I like to do a lot of that with our records. I like to write stuff that when you scratch the surface and you go, "Oh. Oh! Oh!"


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Worcester, MA could be almost anywhere in America. But when a foreign invasive pest - the Asian longhorned beetle - was discovered to be killing Worcester's maple trees, the city took decisive action to halt the spread of the beetle, protecting trees across New England from certain death.
Read More » | Watch the Film » | About the Problem »
Do you want to share this film with your school, colleagues, or classmates? Fill out our DVD request form and we will send you one in the mail (USA, Mexico and Canada only).


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Dennis Bowsher (Dallas, Texas) and Marisa Berger won the men's and women's competition, respectively, at the Winter Open in Rancho Mirage, Calif. on Saturday.
Bowsher totaled 5,660 points to finish in first place ahead of Eli Bremer (Monument, Colo.) and Lucas Schrimsher (Roswell, N.M.). Bremer placed second with 5,436 points while Schrimsher finished third with 5,416 points.
Berger's total of 4,224 points gave her the win in the women's event. McKenzie West (Sedalia, Colo.) was second with 4,140 points and Caitlin Flathers came in third with a total of 3,732 points.
Men's Final Results
Women's Final Results


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Reports are circulating that the Federal Aviation Administration may allow travelers to use Amazon Kindle devices during takeoff.
The FAA's Portable and Electronic Device Advisory and Rulemaking Committee is reviewing current policies and will end those deliberations in July. The committee has more than two dozen members, who include representatives of the FAA, Amazon, airlines, pilot and flight attendant unions, aircraft manufacturers, the FCC and the Consumer Electronics Association.
The current guidance is that travelers have to turn off everything while below 10,000 feet, but that may all change.
Over the past few years, the FAA has been under mounting pressure to either allow passengers more electronic freedom onboard aircraft, or provide solid scientific evidence why they can't. Critics point out that pilots now employ iPads in the cockpit for navigation purposes.
So tell us what you think — should passengers be allowed to use electronic devices during a flight? Leave a comment below, post on our Facebook wall or Tweet us. We look forward to hearing from you!
Read also…
TravelSafe Vacation Plan Named Number One for Second Consecutive Year
Spa Travel on the Rise
Top Five Family Travel Tips


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The safety and effectiveness of vaccines are under constant study. Because vaccines are designed to be given routinely during well-child care visits, they must be extraordinarily safe. Safety testing begins as soon as a new vaccine is contemplated, continues until it is approved by the FDA, and is monitored indefinitely after licensure. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) works closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to make recommendations for vaccine use.
Over the past decade, questions have been raised regarding a relationship between autism and vaccines. Along with general safetyconcerns, parents have wondered about:
Research has been conducted on all of these topics, and the studies continue to find vaccines to be a safe and effective way to prevent serious disease. This document lists those studies and provides links to the publications to allow parents and all those who administer or recommend vaccines to read the evidence for themselves. These studies do not show any link between autism and MMR vaccine, thimerosal, multiple vaccines given at once, fevers or seizures. This is not an exhaustive list-vaccine safety studies are constantly being conducted and published and may not be reflected here.Please examine the evidence for yourself. If you have any questions, speak with your pediatrician
DeStefano F, Price CS, Weintraub ES. Journal of Pediatrics. 2013
This case-control study of more than 1,000 children compared the total exposure of antibody-stimulating proteins and polysaccharides in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), autistic disorder (AD), or ASD with regression to the total exposure in children who were not diagnosed with any form of autism. The children included in the study were aged 6-13 years, but authors studied their exposures from vaccines during the first 2 years of life. Results showed that the odds of developing any of the three forms of autism studied did not rise with increased exposure to antibody-stimulating proteins and polysaccharides.
AUTHOR CONCLUSION: The authors concluded that parents' concern that "too many vaccines too soon" could lead to autism is not supported. There was no indication that children with autism were more likely to have been exposed to more antigens through vaccines either in a single doctor's visit, in the first 3 months of life, the first 7 months of life, or the first 2 years of life than were children without any diagnosis of ASD, AD or ASD with regression. The authors also pointed out that while children today may receive more vaccines than the children in this study, some of the children in this study were exposed to far more antigens (by thousands) than children today. This is because whole-cell pertussis vaccine is no longer used.
Smith M and Woods C, Pediatrics. Vol. 125 No. 6 June 2010, pp. 1134-1141The study of data on more than 1,000 children born between 1993 and 1997 looked at their vaccination schedules up to 1 year of age, and studied their performance 7 to 10 years later on 42 different neuropsychological outcomes. Timely vaccination was associated with better performance on numerous outcomes. The less-vaccinated children did not do significantly better on any ofthe outcomes.AUTHOR CONCLUSION: This comparison of children vaccinated on time with children whose vaccinations were delayed or incomplete found no benefit in delaying immunizations during the first year of life. For parents who are concerned that children receive too many vaccines too soon, these data may provide reassurance that timely vaccination during infancy has no adverse effect on long-term neuropsychological outcomes.
Klein N, et al., Pediatrics. 2011; 127(5), e1139-46Researchers studied children in Northern California to determine whether 77 infants with inborn errors of metabolism who received vaccines were more likely to experience adverse events following vaccination, than 1540 matched controls (infants born without inborn errors of metabolism). Authors did not find any association between vaccination of children with inborn errors of metabolism and an increase in hospitalizations or emergency-department visits within 30 days of vaccination.
AUTHOR CONCLUSION: On-time receipt of vaccines is not associated with increased risk for serious adverse events in the 30 days after vaccination, even in children who have metabolism conditions. This should provide reassurance that children with inborn errors of metabolism who are vaccinated routinely do not experience adverse effects.
Klein N, et al., Pediatrics. 2011; 129(5): 809-14Researchers chose to perform cohort study and included 715,484 children aged 48-83 months of age who received a dose of MMRV, a dose of MMR on the same day as a dose of Varicella injected separately, orMMR alone or Varicella alone to determine the risk of post-vaccination seizure in these groups. Results showed that more fevers and seizures did occur in children who had received the MMRV vaccine, compared with children who had received MMR + Varicella, or MMR or Varicella separately, though this finding was not statistically significant. The study did not find any peak in seizure or fever activity in any of the study groups in the 7-10 post-vaccination period. Of the 4 febrile seizures observed in the 7-10 days in the post-vaccination period for children receiving MMRV, only one febrile seizure could be confirmed, resulting in authors claiming the rate of febrile seizure after MMRV to be 1 in 86,750 doses.AUTHOR CONCLUSION: Overall researchers found no increased risk of febrile seizures in any of the study groups within 6 weeks of vaccination.
Budzyn D, et al. The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal. Vol. 29, No. 5, May 2010
Researchers in Poland compared vaccination history and autism diagnosis in 96 children with autism, ages 2 to 15, as well as 192 children in a control group. For children diagnosed before a diagnosis of autism, the autism risk was lower in children who received MMR vaccine than in nonvaccinated children. A similar result was achieved for the single-antigen measles vaccine.AUTHOR CONCLUSION: The study provides evidence against the association of autism with either MMR or a single measles vaccine.
On Feb. 12, 2009, the "vaccine court" ruled in three test cases on the theory that MMR vaccine and the vaccine preservative thimerosal are linked to autism. The court found the scientific evidence is overwhelmingly contrary to this theory.
Price C et al., Pediatrics. Vol. 126 No. 4 October 2010, pp. 656-664Researchers reviewed managed care organization records and conducted interviews with the parents of 256 children who were verified to have ASD according to a standardized personal evaluation. Children with ASD were further categorized as having autistic disorder or ASD with regression. Another 752 children without autism, matched to the ASD children by birth year, gender and managed care organization, were also studied. For none of the autism outcomes was prenatal or early life receipt of thimerosal-containing vaccines and immunoglobulins significantly greater among children with ASD than among children without ASD.AUTHOR CONCLUSION: These results add to the evidence that thimerosalcontaining vaccines do not increase the risk of autism.
Deer B, British Medical Journal. 2011; 342: 77-84British journalist Brian Deer investigates Dr. Andrew Wakefield (the man who initially claimed a link between autism and the MMR vaccine), his practices during the study that was published on this alleged connection, and uncovers truths that lead to the revocation of Dr Wakefield's medical license and to the retraction of the article he published on the subject.


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Strata gets MetaclassicalPosted by Christian Carey in Chamber Music, Contemporary Classical, File Under?, Interviews, New York, Video, viola, Violin, tags: Maggio, Merkin, Paulus, Strata
Strata – a trio consisting of pianist Audrey Andrist, clarinetist Nathan Williams, and violinist/violist James Stern – has just started a new commissioning project. Abetted by a grant from the Rauch Foundation, their Metaclassical Music Project seeks to bridge the gap between new music and the non-specialist audience through educational outreach and the commissioning of new works that seek to communicate with a range of listeners.
Phase one of Strata's "demystification" of contemporary fare involves presenting a new piece by Stephen Paulus on a concert this weekend at Merkin Hall (details below). Paulus is certainly a composer who fits their mission statement: an artist who doesn't water down his language (and can indeed sound quite 'modern' in places) but has managed to craft a body of work that speaks to many "mainstream" classical listeners.
Alongside Paulus' Trio Concertant, Strata will present works by Robert Maggio, Jonathan Leshnoff, and Béla Bartók's Contrasts. I recently caught up with Stern to discuss the concert, as well as Strata's future plans for the Metaclassical Music project.
Sequenza 21: Tell me a bit about the background and formation of Strata.
Stern: Strata is an ensemble that grew out of friendships formed at the Juilliard School. Audrey and I began dating while we were both graduate students there, and then Audrey met Nathan in a doctoral seminar they were both taking after I had moved away to take a job at the Cleveland Institute. So far we've never all three lived in the same city, but Audrey and I got married a few years later, while Nathan's career was taking him all over the world with a succession of teaching positions and performing. Despite the geographical obstacles, the three of us got serious about developing a repertoire and performing throughout the North American continent. I also got serious about playing viola so as to augment our repertoire possibilities. We chose the name "Strata" (layers) in recognition of a fondness that we all share for the intricacies of counterpoint (many-layered music), as well as a commitment to uncovering many layers of meaning in what we play.
Sequenza 21: What's the concept behind your new commissioning project?
Stern: The Metaclassical Music Project began with the idea that a composer might be able to facilitate the educational outreach presentations that we do. What if, for example, a single melody could be cast successively in monophonic, homophonic and then polyphonic textures of gradually increasing complexity? Then we would have an array of examples to explain these ideas to a young audience and this would, in turn, help to illuminate other standard repertoire we play for them. Next, what if such an array of musical demonstrations actually formed part of a large-scale concert piece; that is what if, in addition to their educational function, they created a coherent emotional trajectory that added up to an intense concert experience? This is where the idea started. But it evolved into something more general: what happens to an artist's self-expression when she or he takes on the commitment to instruct? I actually believe that composers like Shostakovich, and writers like Milan Kundera and Herman Melville have done this: they write in what I like to call the "didactic voice," and that this is part of the key to the immense power they achieve.
Sequenza 21: How did you decide to commission Stephen Paulus?
Stern: Nathan first encountered Paulus when he participated in a performance of one of Paulus's operas. He was deeply struck by the color and imagination of the writing. Somewhat later I performed Paulus's Partita Appassionata, at the Cosmos Club of Washington D.C., with my University of Maryland colleague, pianist Bradford Gowen. Paulus was being inducted into the Cosmos Club, which was described by the late Wallace Stegner as "the closest thing to a social headquarters for Washington's intellectual elite." Their website goes on to report: "Among its members, over the years, have been three Presidents, two Vice Presidents, a dozen Supreme Court justices, 32 Nobel Prize winners, 56 Pulitzer Prize winners and 45 recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom." Strata has also performed there. Two things struck me on this occasion. One was how easy Paulus's music made it for us, as performers, to connect with an audience. The energy in the room was wonderful. The other was hearing Paulus speak about his music. With regard to a song cycle that was being performed that evening he described, with evident enjoyment, how he had deliberately written one of the songs using the twelve-tone technique, just to prove that it could be done in a way that was attractive and not intimidating. This was the kind of creativity and exuberance we were looking for with the Metaclassical Music Project.


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Dear long-time XOMBIE fans,
This is it! Today is the launch of our Kickstarter campaign for the new season of XOMBIE.
So, if XOMBIE ever brought you any enjoyment whatsoever, by all means, help us spread the word. Tell your friends. Warn random strangers. Help us alert the world that Dirge is destined to rise, complain, and kick ass again!
Click on over to the Kickstarter page at
www.kickstarter.com/projects/epiclevel/xombie-death-warmed-over and consider funding our second season. That is, of course, unless you feel strongly that a sentient zombie with a shovel should NOT fight a leathery-winged, xenopod brood matron 30,000 feet in the air. I would clearly respect your position, though I would never understand it. :)
Thanks again for your support and enthusiasm!
Dear long-time XOMBIE fans,
Hey all, it's James Farr here; writer, animator and creator of the original XOMBIE series. After almost three years of eerie, unsettling silence, I'm reaching out to you today with a long-overdue Xombie update, but also with a request for help. (Do I sound like a Nigerian Prince yet?) Don't worry, it's a simple task, which you can do with a single click. Well, maybe two.
As some of you may remember, Dreamworks optioned XOMBIE wayyyy back in the Summer of 2009. Though several scripts were written, ultimately none were produced - leaving the XOMBIE rights tied up but (temporarily) unused. As we roll into the Summer of 2012, the rights have finally returned to us, meaning we finally have the freedom to produce more XOMBIE goodness on our own.
So that brings me conveniently to that "request for help" we talked about. As of March 29th, 2012 (one week from today), we are launching a massive Kickstarter campaign to bring XOMBIE'S long-lost SECOND SEASON (DEATH WARMED OVER) from page to screen. Written by me, animated by professionals, and with over ten times the action and ANSWERS that the Dreamworks feature would have contained, Xombie: Death Warmed Over is primed to become the biggest, baddest zombie series to ever hit the web.
How can you help, you ask? Great question! Next week, we'll be calling on you, our loyal fans, to help us spread the word about Dirge's long-awaited return. For now, we just need one simple thing. Please click on one, or both, of the links below and connect to us on Facebook or Myspace (yup, Myspace) so we can keep you updated on the campaign, as well as send you XOMBIE goodies along the way.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialxombie
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/officialxombie
And, if you've forgotten the joy of watching Dirge decapitate mindless undead hordes, then click on over to our YouTube page to watch the recently re-released episodes here:
Thanks so much for taking the time to read, listen and act. You guys have been the best fans ever. All of Xombie's past and future success is thanks to you.
More soon!


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Don't believe it!
The Columbus Dispatch - June 10, 2012 03:55 PM
Losing weight takes hard work, discipline and time. Don't let any magazine, commercial or internet ad convince you otherwise. There is no magic pill.
I saw a magazine cover recently at the grocery checkout (I try not to look, but you know how that goes). After my eyes returned from rolling through my head -- and after counting the number of exclamation points! -- I began stewing.
You cannot lose weight without regular exercise and changing your diet. Period. The numerous fad diets may work temporarily, but are nearly impossible to sustain, nevermind unhealthy. That's why I and so many others who have been successful call it a "lifestyle change". It's not temporary. It's for life.
When I was pregnant with my fourth child, I regularly chowed down on Wendy's. When I sat down to watch TV, my favorite snack was Betty Crocker vanilla frosting. Straight out of the can. With a spoon. I also stopped exercising. And guess what? I put on more than 50 pounds. So, I took a magic pill and all that fat went away! Not.
My blood pressure and cholesterol numbers put me at high risk for any number of bad things, so I started the change slowly. I began walking short distances slowly, then quicker and longer. Then I joined a gym and started working with a personal trainer. I used sparkpeople.com religiously, finding out how many calories, carbohydrates, protein and fat I should be taking in and doing my best to stay within the suggested ranges. It was difficult.
A little more than a year later, I was down about 15 pounds and my numbers were looking good. Then I hit the first of many plateaus. I got stuck and couldn't lose anymore weight, which was extremely frustrating.
I used the opportunity to re-evaluate my diet. In December 2010, I became a vegetarian. It was something I'd considered before for ethical reasons, so I knew I could do it. I researched the benefits and cautions of both vegetarianism and veganism, then dove in headfirst. I lost four pounds in the first week. I ate cottage cheese and greek yogurt every day, and I found some really good meat substitutes.
At the next plateau, I realized I was still taking in way too many carbs. I also discovered that plateaus were totally normal. While carbs are necessary and provide your body with energy, eating too many can turn the excess into stored fat. I learned that strength training was more important to fat loss than cardio, so I cut down a bit on the cardio, replacing it with more strength work. Another four pounds came off quickly.
In late 2011, at yet another plateau, I learned all I could about increasing my protein and decreasing my carbs. I began drinking protein shakes every day after my workouts. I limited my carbs to fruits and vegetables and one serving per day of whole grains. No more pasta and bread. I also learned about the fat-loss benefits of High Intensity Interval Training and Metabolic Physique Conditioning, so I added them into my routine. Another few pounds hit the road.
Recently, while studying for my certification, I delved even further into macronutrient ratios: the percentage of carbs to protein to fat in my daily caloric intake. I read an article about body types, figured out that I was an "endomorph", which essentially meant that I had a low tolerance for carbs and my ratios should be about 25 percent carbs:35 protein:40 fat (they were closer to 45:30:25). So I needed more fat (what?) and protein, and less carbs. Of course, we're talking healthy fat from nuts, olive oil, and eggs, to name a few.
I continue to experiment with my diet and find new, challenging workout routines to push myself. It's a constant process.
Guess what? More than three years later, I'm two pounds away from my pre-pregnancy weight.
There's your magic pill.


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Well, it is all speculation at this point, but so far word on the street is that our starting linebackers next year are going to be:
OLB: Laurinaitis
MLB: Kerr/Homan
OLB: Freeman
The only lock in that group I would say is Laurinaitis based largely on the fact that he appeared to be the first option to replace Carpenter at the end of last year. I think Jon Kerr has started this year as the apparent leader for the MLB position, but I am not sure that it will stick. Ross Homan is really turning heads and frankly this is a chance for the Buckeyes to get a little younger in the LB corps.
Kerr is a 5th year senior, either the Buckeyes will look forward and play Homan extensively or rely on Jon Kerr to provide some leadership on the defense. Personally, I would prefer to see the Buckeyes go young at the LB position.
Laurinaitis and Homan are exceptionally young and talented and we would have each for at least 3 years (Laurinaitis is a sophomore next year, Homan is a frosh).
Don't count Larry Grant out either, he has received some pretty fair reports also.


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You are in our domestic store. If you live outside the United States, please view our store policies on this page, then visit our international store to place your order.
Encyclopedia of Islamic Herbal Medicine by John Andrew Morrow, 2011.
An authoritative reference work for anyone interested in herbal medicine, this book provides unprecedented insight into Prophetic phytotherapy, a branch of herbal medicine which relies exclusively on the herbal prescriptions of the prophet Muhammad and is little known outside of the Muslim world. Combining classical Arabic primary sources with an thorough survey of modern scientific studies, this encyclopedia features a multidisciplinary approach which should prove useful for both practitioners and followers of herbal medicine. Entries include each herb's botanical and alternate names, a summary of its "prophetic prescription," its properties and uses, and a guide to related contemporary scientific studies. Softcover, 235 pages. ON SALE
American Botanical Council, 6200 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78723 Phone: 512-926-4900 | Fax: 512-926-2345 | Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
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Broad back for Giles' 1st T20
Ashley Giles takes charge of his first England T20 match and will have Stuart Broad available again after injury.
Wed January 30 2013
More Cricket Videos
Tue January 24 2017
Mills hopes to give England energy
Bowler Tymal Mills is hoping to make his first international appearance outside of England in the T20 series against India, which gets underway on Thursday.
Sun January 22 2017
Bayliss proud of gutsy team
England head coach Trevor Bayliss was impressed with his side's character as they sealed a hard-fought five-run victory against India in the 3rd ODI in Kolkata.
Sun January 22 2017
Road to India
The England Visually Impaired cricket team are off to the Blind Cricket T20 World Cup in India and we caught up in with them at their final training session on home soil.
Fri January 20 2017
India v England 2nd ODI - The Review
Nasser Hussain and Nick Knight reflect on England's narrow defeat to India in the second ODI, but careful you don't miss your flight to Kolkata lads!
Thu January 19 2017
India v England 2nd ODI - The Presentation
Ravi Shastri joins captains Eoin Morgan and Virat Kohli for the presentation following the second ODI between India and England in Cuttack.
Tue January 17 2017
Hameed ready for England return
Haseeb Hameed reveals he's fit and ready to return to action after a hand injury ended his impressive England Test debut in India.
Tue January 17 2017
Stokes: Lessons to be learnt
Ben Stokes concedes England's bowlers need to be smarter after losing the first one-day international to India, despite setting a record target of 350 to win.
Sun January 15 2017
Morgan: Kohli ruined our plans
England captain Eoin Morgan has hailed India batsman Virat Kohli after the 28-year-old defied England to score an impressive 122 in the first ODI at Pune.
Sun January 15 2017
India v England 1st ODI - The Toss
Ravi Shastri is joined by Virat Kohli and Eoin Morgan for the toss before the start of the first ODI in Pune.
Sat January 14 2017
Who makes the England XI?
Nasser Hussain and Nick Knight pick their England team to play the first ODI against India.
Fri January 13 2017
Key hopeful Cook stays captain
Rob Key says he'd like Alastair Cook to remain as England captain, but stresses he must have the energy and desire to continue.
Tue January 3 2017
'WC a launchpad for women's cricket'
Ebony Rainford-Brent explains how the upcoming cricket World Cup will impact the women's game in England.
Fri December 23 2016
Sky Sports' 12 days of Christmas
The Sky choir sing the 12 days of Christmas with a sporting twist.
Wed December 21 2016
Abell: I'll lead by example
Somerset have announced their captains for the 2017 season. 22-year-old Tom Abell will lead them in 4 day cricket next year.
Tue December 20 2016
Farbrace: We hope Cook continues
England assistant coach Paul Farbrace spoke to Ian Ward after defeat in the fifth Test in Chennai and insists Alastair Cook remains the right man to captain the side.
Tue December 20 2016
Hussain: A diabolical performance
Nasser Hussain and Sir Ian Botham gave their reaction to Ian Ward after England's defeat to India in the fifth Test in Chennai.
Mon December 19 2016
Atherton: A brutal day for England
Sky Sports pundit Michael Atherton gives his assessment on a punishing day for England after stumps on day four of the 5th Test in Chennai.
Sun December 18 2016
Stokes rues England misses
All-rounder Ben Stokes admitted that England's fielding has let them down so far in India.
Sat December 17 2016
Dawson 'a tough cricketer'
Nasser Hussain and Sir Ian Botham join Ian Ward to assess Liam Dawson's debut Test innings for England.
Fri December 16 2016
Connor explains ECB women's contracts
ECB Director of Women's Cricket Clare Connor explains the reasoning behind the introduction of newly extended two-year contracts for England's women's team to Sky Sports News HQ presenter Jo Wilson.
Fri December 16 2016
Root: Not converting is frustrating
England's Joe Root speaks to Ian Ward after day one of the fifth Test against India in Chennai.
Fri December 16 2016
India v England 5th Test - The Toss
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Thu December 15 2016
Cork: Cook should be Ashes captain
Dominic Cork believes Alastair Cook should remain as England captain until at least the next Ashes series, and has a ready-made replacement in Joe Root.
Fri December 16 2016
Anderson ruled out of fifth test
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Wed December 14 2016
Chennai recovering from Cyclone Vardah
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Tue December 13 2016
Athers: Cook should remain captain
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Mon December 12 2016
Bayliss rues lack of concentration
England coach Trevor Bayliss feels the defeat against India in the fourth Test could have been prevented if his team had maintained concentration and taken their chances.
Mon December 12 2016
India v England 4th Test: The Presentation
We hear from captains Alastair Cook and Virat Kohli after England fell to an innings and 36-runs defeat against India in the fourth Test in Mumbai.
Sun December 11 2016
Botham: England let it get away
Sir Ian Botham believes missed opportunities and a lack of control from England cost them dearly on day four against India.
Sat December 10 2016
Is Kohli the best in the world?
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Sat December 10 2016
Nasser unhappy with England selection
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Sat December 10 2016
Root: We haven't given up
England batsman Joe Root hailed his team's tenacity after they struggled in the field on day three of the fourth Test with India racing into a 51-run lead.
Fri December 9 2016
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Fri December 9 2016
Buttler talks batting with the tail
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Fri December 16 2016
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Jennings on surreal 72 hours
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Wed December 7 2016
Red cards in cricket?
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Tue December 6 2016
Root: Batsmen must step up
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Mon December 5 2016
Johnny Dennis remembered
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Thu December 1 2016
Andrew on Sussex role
New Sussex chief executive Rob Andrew talks about his love of cricket and his aspirations in his role. See the full interview during the fourth India v England Test.
Wed November 30 2016
'Jennings deserves a go'
Mike Atherton says Keaton Jennings deserves his England call-up after a fantastic season for Durham.


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By BARBARA L. FREDRICKSEN
Published May 19, 2007
Oh, my. Has it really been nine years since the Pasco Times held its last "favorite restaurant" reader poll?
Each year, from 1994 through 1998, we asked readers to let us know their favorite dining spots in Pasco County.
The first year we asked about "Favorite Early Bird Special." The next year it was "Favorite Big Night Out, " then, in succeeding years, favorite breakfasts, pizzas and ethnic food.
Hundreds of ballots came in each year, with votes for the well-known establishments and the hidden treasures.
Since then, many restaurants have come and stayed, many have come and gone and a few old-timers have closed their doors.
With all these changes, it's time to do another dining poll. But instead of doing one restaurant type a year, we're doing six categories all at once.
Once we get all the ballots in the office, we'll visit the winners, take some photos, interview some of the people who sent in ballots, and then write stories about each of the winners over the rest of the summer.
As we wrote 10 years ago, "We do this for a variety of reasons: to let people have their say; to let readers share their ideas of what it takes to make a place a great dining experience; to spotlight some places that might have been overlooked before; and mostly, just for fun."
By the way, the winner of the first two contests in 1994 (Early Bird) and 1995 (Special Night Out), the modest but popular Lola's Steak and Seafood on U.S. 19, closed in July 2003, after 26 years in business, when majority owners Lola and Mike Milic decided to retire. Their lime- sherbet-colored building is now a beige office building.
Favorite Breakfast Places
Locally owned
Pasco Times official ballot
'Favorite Restaurant' Reader Poll
The guidelines are few:
1. The ballot must include your name, city and telephone number. That's so I can call you for further comment, if necessary. (No solicitors will call you and we won't share your information with anyone else.)
2. The ballot must be cut from the newspaper. No copies will be counted (this prevents ballot-stuffing - not that anyone would ever do that). We can't accept faxed ballots, as there would be no way to tell if they are originals. Feel free to add pages, however, if there's not enough room for your comments.
3. Only restaurants within Pasco County are eligible.
4. All ballots must be received at the Pasco Times office by 5 p.m. Friday, June 1. You can drop them off through the front slot at our Port Richey office or in the box on the front desk. Or you can mail them in.
Favorite Early Bird Special
Favorite Ethnic Restaurant
(Mexican, Thai, Italian, Chinese, German, Czech, Japanese, Pan Asian, Cuban, etc.)
Favorite All Around
Favorite Pizza Places
Favorite Big Night Out
Your contact information
Mail ballot to:
Food poll Barbara L. Fredricksen St. Petersburg Times 11321 U.S. 19 Port Richey, FL 34668
[Last modified May 18, 2007, 23:31:38]
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text:
Lakewood United Church of Christ agrees to be the repository for donations to a fund for the man who was wrongly imprisoned.
By JON WILSON
Published May 20, 2007
ST. PETERSBURG - The grass roots activist trying to raise money for a man who spent 24 years in prison for crimes he didn't commit has found a church to collect the donations.
Seminole resident Norm Bungard said donations for Alan Crotzer can be sent to Lakewood United Church of Christ, 2601 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712. Checks can be made out either to Crotzer or the church, Bungard said.
Bungard, a retired Social Security official and a longtime Habitat for Humanity leader, has offered to the highest bidder a tour of St. Petersburg's historic Midtown sites. He will conduct the tour in a Hummer, whose three-day use he won in a Free Clinic charity auction.
Bungard kicked off the donation drive with $250 of his own. He said he has received a $500 bid for the tour. Other donations, even notes of encouragement, are welcome, he said.
Crotzer, who recently moved to Tallahassee from St. Petersburg, was released from prison after DNA tests showed that he didn't commit rape. Legislators earlier this month denied him compensation for the time he spent in prison.
[Last modified May 19, 2007, 21:00:01]
© 2011 · All Rights Reserved · Tampa Bay Times
490 First Avenue South · St. Petersburg, FL 33701 · 727-893-8111
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text:
Los Alamos National Laboratory
Fellows' Nominations and Selections
Fellows' nomination and selection process
The Fellow appointment is an honor bestowed by the Director in recognition of unusual achievement by research and development (R&D) scientists and engineers. It can be awarded to full-time R&D scientists, R&D engineers, R&D managers, and Program Managers who have been at the Laboratory a minimum of two years immediately before the nomination deadline.
The rank of Fellow is recognition for at least one of the following:
- Sustained, high-level achievements in programs of importance to Laboratory
- Fundamental or important discovery that has led to widespread use
- Having become a recognized authority in the field, including outside recognition and an outstanding record of publications
A call for nominations of Fellow candidates is made annually. Any employee may sponsor a nomination; however, before a great deal of effort is devoted to the nomination package, it would be useful to propose the nomination to the candidate's division leader or program director and other appropriate colleagues and peers to obtain their input. The sponsor may find this helpful in the subsequent preparation of the nomination package.A complete nomination package consists of the following (to be submitted electronically):
- The completed Cover Sheet/ADC review form. If a classified nomination or reference letter is required for proper consideration of the nominee's package, please note in the table of contents that classified nomination materials are available and provide a contact for making arrangements to view this material. Do NOT send classified material as part of the nomination package.
- A table of contents in order of requested material.
- An unclassified letter of nomination from the sponsor, which includes a summary of the nominee's achievements and an explanation of their significance. See instructions above for submitting classified nomination materials.
- No more than 5 (internal and/or external) letters of endorsement.
- The nominee's current resume.
- A list of publications that support the nomination criterion or criteria, and, if available, citation index information.
Please do not submit classified nomination materials with the package, extra letters of endorsement or "bound" material, e.g., pre-prints, reprints, or publications. The deadline for submission of nominations has been extended to May 28, 2016. Please submit the ADC reviewed nomination package to firstname.lastname@example.com by the specified deadline.
The nominations are screened by a Fellows' Screening Committee, whose members are appointed by the SRO Program Director in consultation with the Principal Associate Director for Science, Technology, and Engineering. The Committee's ranking of the nominees and the supporting nomination packages are presented to the Director who makes the final decisions and appointments. The total number of Fellows in regular employment status at the Laboratory is limited to about 2 percent of the eligible positions.
To help fulfill the goal of achieving a diverse work force in all aspects, sponsors are especially encouraged to consider qualified women and members of underrepresented minority groups for nomination.
Additional information
Each year, many outstanding candidates are nominated for the rank of Laboratory Fellow, each of them meeting at least one of the stated criteria as required. However, many of these candidates not only meet one criterion but meet all three to a very high degree. To prepare the strongest package possible for a candidate, nominators should prepare a classified addendum if such will add substantially to the candidate's nomination. (Be sure to follow the submission requirements regarding classified materials.)
The Screening Committee has the difficult task of determining whom to recommend from an extremely talented field. Sponsors often want to know in what way their unsuccessful candidate was deficient. More often than not, the candidate was not deficient in any manner; instead, their competitors were extremely strong in all three criteria.
The Fellow rank is not intended to be a part of a formal parallel ladder to management. Fellows are expected to continue to play an important scientific or technical role in the Laboratory and the intention is for the appointment to enhance this role. A Fellow normally remains a member of a Laboratory technical division or program office, where the Fellow receives the financial and administrative support generally provided to R&D staff. Specific job assignments for the Fellow are determined with appropriate supervisors.
The Fellows meet and consider issues of importance to the Laboratory. Laboratory leadership from division leaders through the Director often request the opinion and advice of the Fellows individually and collectively on issues important to the Laboratory. Special colloquia and symposia are organized by the Fellows, and they sponsor annual prizes for outstanding research and leadership achievements by members of the Laboratory's scientific and engineering staff.


text:
Two-Phase DC-DC Buck Converter for Power Amplifier Modulation
Islam, Mohammad Moakhkhrul
Permanent address of the item is: http://URN.fi/URN:NBN:fi:tty-201205221153
Publication type: Diplomityö
Issue date: 2012-05-09
University: Tampereen teknillinen yliopisto - Tampere University of Technology
Faculty: Tieto- ja sähkötekniikan tiedekunta – Faculty of Computing and Electrical Engineering
Department: Tietoliikennetekniikan laitos – Department of Communications Engineering
This thesis presents the theory, design, layout and a proposal for measurement set up of a synchronous DC-DC buck converter. This converter will be used as the supply modulator of power amplifier of mobile phones. The design is done using 45nm CMOS technology. Pmos and nmos switches are synchronously turns on and off for DC voltage conversion. Second order LC type filter is used to filter out the ac component from output. Two phase interleaving is done to reduce the output ripple voltage. Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) method is used for generating the control signal. Several techniques like dead time control mechanism, reduced gate drive voltage for switches are applied for improving the efficiency of the converter. The operating voltage range of the converter is 3.3-4.2V and it can produce 0.5-3V output voltage with 2W of maximum output power. It has maximum load current of 700mA. The switching frequency of the converter can be varied from 10MHz to 100MHz. The ripple voltage is less than 10mV for 50MHz switching frequency. The converter shows good results in terms of power density and simulated efficiency which are 1.65W/mm2 and 88.5%.
Copyright: This publication is copyrighted. You may download, display and print it for Your own personal use. Commercial use is prohibited.