text:
I'd like to put shoes in perspective for the masses. In particular, the universal obsession women have with shoes. As one of those women, I feel that I have the expertise to remove some of the mystery from the subject.
Shoes make or break an outfit. A little black dress might as well be a potato sack if worn with an ugly pair of sandals or worn out tennis shoes. Shoes can make legs look infinitely longer and more shapely, can give a flirtatious air to an otherwise conservative outfit, and the click-clack of heels striding down a hall is a symphonic announcement of "I'm here. Now stare in awe, shut up and listen to what I have to say."
Shoes are a status symbol. Whether recognizable as a certain brand or not, the elegance and make of a shoe is obvious at a glance. Cheap shoes are like a cheap car. Roll up in a 90's Kia and everyone suddenly assumes you live in a trailer park.
But these are only words. To illustrate my point, I give you an example in film of the power of shoes. A classic story and film that shows just how important shoes really are.
Town Square
What shoes mean to women
Original post made by Sierra Rhodes, another community, on Aug 19, 2013
Like this commentPosted by Citizen Paine
a resident of Danville
on Aug 19, 2013 at 2:00 pm
One of my favorite scenes from Lackawanna Blues, narrated during the 'Caledonia' dance party sequence:
"It didn't matter how you were dressed from the ankle up, because it was the SHOOOOez that made you sharp!"
Heartwarming film -- the world could do with a few more Rachel Crosbys!


text:
Excerpt: "Offensive linemen, offensive linemen, offensive linemen. That's all you seem to want for the Giants in the NFL Draft.
Can't blame you. The Giants only have one lineman that can be penciled in as a starter for next season.
So, not surprisingly, you sent me back for more. Over 71 percent of your votes were for me to watch the two offensive lineman choices closely during Wednesdays Senior Bowl practice.
But the winner in the voting and with his play on the field was Notre Dame offensive tackle Zack Martin. He had his third straight strong day of work in Mobile.
Calling Martin an offensive tackle may be a misrepresentation when all is said and done. The 6-foot-4, 305-pound lineman rotated between left tackle and left guard on Wednesday. He looked fluid at both positions.
Here's what I saw:
Pros: Excellent technique and good footwork. Always seems to be balanced and with a strong base. Not a mauler but has sufficient power. Light on his feet and able to handle some speed around the edge. Plays low and uses his hands well to fight off pass rushers both on the outside and inside.
Cons: Not a premium athlete for a left tackle. Could struggle with top athletes on the professional level. Sufficient but not excellent strength. Could be susceptible to bull rushes. Short arms." Read more...

subset: commoncrawl


text:
|Aliana Do'Erren
|Dementia Walker
Two options for your perusal:
Race: Human
Class/Archetype: Paladin (no archetype) of Abadar (Given the option, he'd use the Code of Conduct below)
Age: 18
At just over 6 feet, Kalen has a strong and sturdy frame. Blond-haired and blue-eyed, with a pleasant (although intent) face, he keeps himself clean shaven, with his hair cut short. When in a civilized place, he dresses well and takes care of his appearance, but is not fanatic about it. On campaign, he is much more relaxed about keeping shaved, but still keeps his equipment meticulously clean and in good repair.
Kalenir is deeply religous, having undergone a full on conversion to the worship of Abadar. He does not, however, proselytize; he believes in conversion by example. Kalenir believes solidly that bringing civilization to the wilds is the best of all possible goals.
In general, Kalenir is fairly easygoing, with the possible exception of his feelings regarding banditry. He believes in process, that when possible criminals should have a trial (even if the outcome is a foregone conclusion), and when it is not, they should be dispatched or shown mercy quickly and without rancor. (Kalenir would not suggest a trial held in the wolderness, though he'd be inclined to give a survivor to speak his piece before rather then just slaying them, and he is not adverse to killing people or creatures in combat if it is the sensible way to do things).
TL;DR: Yes, a paladin, but not a prig incapable of dealing with the idea that other people have other ways of doing things.
Coming from a branch of House Orlovsky (albeit a minor one), Kalenir spent much of his young life under the care of tutors, both martial and intellectual. (Trait: Noble Born-Orlovsky, Feat:Cosmopolitan). A gifted negotiator, he embodied much of the Orlovsky ideals, but always felt a bit out of touch with the rather disorganized state of Brevoys political landscape (Based on the most influential deities of the area, Brevoy seems pretty Chaotic in nature). Were he of lower standing, and less 'city-bred', he may have gravitated towards Erastil, but as it was he spent much of his early life directionless and disaffected.
That all changed during a trip to Restov with his father to perform some court function (he honestly cannot remember what it was...part of some byzantine negotiation for trade rights or some such). While walking through the city, lost in his own thoughts, he became separated from his party, and ended up down a side street, standing in front of a tiny, untenanted and unmaintained shrine to Abadar. Then and there he was struck by an understanding that this was what he lacked...order, and in his heart, he converted at once.
Over the past six months, Kalenir has been embroiled in multiple arguments with his family as they have gently tried to coax him from his foolishness, but he has held fast, absorbing everything he could from what few books were available on Abadar, and seeking out his clerics in the larger cities for instruction. His goal...his calling...has become to bring civilization and order to the untamed wilds of the Stolen Lands.
Code of Conduct:
The code below combines both the Core Paladin code, and that of Ababdar's paladins (from Faiths of Balance):
• I am an agent of civilization, and shall do my utmost to see it spread.
• I shall respect legitimate authority, doing my best to work within the laws of the land. Those laws I disagree with I shall attempt to change in a legitimate fashion.
• I shall act with honor; I shall not lie, nor cheat, nor use poison in the pursuit of my goals
• I shall help those in need, and punish those who harm or threaten innocents.
• I am a protector of the roadways and keep travelers from harm. No matter their destinations or goals, if they are peaceable and legitimate travelers who harm no others on the road, I will ensure that they pass safely.
• Bandits are a plague. Under my will they come to justice. If they will not come willingly before the law, where they can protest for justice in the courts, they will come under the power of my sword.
• Corruption in the courts is the greatest corruption of civilization. Without confidence in justice, citizens cannot believe in their countries, and civilization begins to disappear. I will root out corruption wherever I find it, and if a system is fundamentally flawed, I will work to aid citizens by reforming or replacing it.
• I am an aid to the markets. I ensure equitable trade between merchants and citizens. Theft on either side is intolerable.
• I make opportunities, and teach others to recognize them. When I aid others, I open the way for them, but will not carry them—they must take responsibility for their own advancement.
Race: Human
Class/Archetype: Wizard (Transmuter) with Bonded Staff. Likely to dabble in construct creation as time progresses.
Age: 24
Appearance: Dark-haired, with a military brush cut. Kern is less frail that most wizards, having spent time as a Lastwall Rider.
Personality: (Lawful Neutral). Controlled, rather cold. He has a chip on his shoulder about the Brevoy nobility in general, and the Surtovas in particular. Kern is not a 'people person'. While he is not a bad person per se, he is not particularly compassionate. He'd regret sacrificing one person to save ten, but that probably wouldn't stop him from doing so if it made sense.
History: Kern's mother, Roma Therensgart, was Captain of Horse for House Surtova until approximately 25 years ago, when she suddenly resigned and left Brevoy to travel to Lastwall. Her son, Kern, grew up formally educated with a generous stipend from House Surtova, a stipend that ended the moment he returned to the area. He has spent the last several years as a member of the Lastwall Riders, a border patrol that serves as a first defense and warning from orcish invaders. Kern makes no secret of his implied heritage, nor his anger at having been left unrecognized when he approached the Surtovas in Brevoy. He is in the Stolen Lands now so that he can make a name for himself, and then go back to the Surtovas and metaphorically poke a stick in their eye.
|Warren Kingeagle
|DM - Tareth
Thanks to everyone for your character ideas and submissions, it was very difficult to narrow it down, but in the end I went with the following seven characters.
Tityanna Medvyed – Female, Human, Sorceress
Thad Tanner – Male, Elf, Paladin
Kams Redcloak – Male, Human, Ranger
Zevac the Scarred – Male, Half Orc, Oracle
Stephanus Dominova – Male, Human, Bard
Alaina Do'Erren – Female, Half Elf, Monk
Warren Kingeagle – Male, Human, Druid
I'm stretching the limits with seven PC's, but hopefully it will work out okay. Those selected please confirm your final characters and feel free to post any questions in the Discussion Thread.
For those who didn't make it, I'm very sorry. If I end up needing additional or new characters I'll keep you in mind for future recruitment. In addition, because there was so much interest and so many good characters I may open a second game in a month or so, depending on how much time I have and how this first campaign goes.
|Tomas Reynolds
|DM - Tareth
Recruiting one or two new party members to join our modified Kingmaker campaign.
Character Guidelines
- Core races ONLY
- Pathfinder Core Book and Advanced Players Guide ONLY
- 25 point build (No stat below 8)
- No evil characters
- 2 Traits (Traits from Kingmaker Players Guide and/or APG are accepted)
- 2nd Level. Starting gold is First Level Max+20gp. Starting HP is First Level max plus roll for second level.
- Ability to post at least once per day
- RP is encouraged and rewarded
New characters will be selected based on character background and existing party need or potential RP opportunities.
Please note that while the basic premise is the same, many encounters and the overall story line will vary a little (or a lot depending on what happens) from what is presented in the Adventure Path. Kingdom building and running rules will remain the same as those presented in the AP.
|Black Thom
|DM - Tareth
|Black Thom
|Black Thom
The afore mentioned Half-Orc is NG.
The Sorceress/Oracle is prbably stacked on Charisma. Unless she has other plans, we could run the network together.
She provides the PR, he handles the leg/grunt work and they both collaborate on strategy.
Collaboration could also lead to the crafting of divine items as well, if she's not already crafting herself.
Stats look something like this: 13, 18, 9, 17, 12, 8.
Three odd numbers helps the bumps at 4, 8 & 12. With the rogue mix, and high INT, not quite a skill monkey. But, maybe a knowledge hound - local, nobility, arcana, engineering, architect... we need a base of operations.
Could do the trap thing with a Trapsmith Rogue, if needed.
Just ideas.
Level 2 HP, Wizard: 1d6 ⇒ 4
I don't know how many people are going to apply for this but I was definitely considering Half-Orc for my bard. If you want we could be related or connected. I'm down with an inteligence network, perhaps I could flavor it in to my soundstriking. He speaks words of truth that hold great power? I don't know whatever.
If lots of people apply then I can understand not wanting to tie our stories together as it means we both need to be chosen. However if interest is low at this time and it looks like we both might play, it could be a good idea (and easier to introduce us together) if we were already a team.
|Black Thom
|Alezzandro Batros
|Black Thom
Bard works... people like Bards.
You can gather the information, Human might be best, most of the population will be Human... get the Extra Feat & Skill Points.
Not sure what archetype/personality you were going for (besides intimidating).
I suppose I could go Human, myself if you were stuck on the Half-Orc Bard shtick. What's good for the goose...
|Alezzandro Batros
|DM - Tareth
|Alezzandro Batros
|Alezzandro Batros
|Black Thom
|DM - Tareth
Here's what I have:
Race: Human
Class: Bard
Gender: male
Size: 6'1" 180lbs
Age: 25
Alignment: Neutral Good
Diety: Abadar
Location: Brevoy
Occupation: Lawman
Languages: Common, Hallit
Str 14 +2
Dex 16 +3
Con 13 +1
Int 12 +1
Wis 10 +0
Cha 16 +3
Imon Talas was born and raised in Restov, and whatever is going on with the future of his country, he cares for little more than Brevoy. His parents had a background in the theater, his mother was a writer, and his father acted, so everyone, including Imon, expected him to follow his parents into that profession. Imon enrolled at a local bard's college and was learning the trade, when his life changed. It was at the opening of a play his mother wrote, and he was helping set up the stage. Imon noticed a pair in the audience acting suspicious. On a lark, he decided to tail the pair as they left. It turned out that the pair were traitors plotting assassinations, bombings and all sorts of horrible things. He reported them to the authorities, and they were arrested.
Imon was shaken by the experience. He'd heard stories that Restov was a hoted of sedition, but it was one thing to hear it, and another to know firsthand. He immediately decided to become a law enforcement agent, adapting the skills he'd developed as an actor to his new job. He was good at it too.
One of his big issues that Imon has always had is the Stolen Lands. He has always hated that nothing could be done to retake them. When he heard that an expedition was being launched to retake the Stolen Lands, he was eager and glad to volunteer.
Perception +7
Initiative +5
-Fortitude +2
-Reflex +6
-Will +3
AC/Flatfoot AC 17/14
Touch AC 13
Hit Points: 18
Attack +4
Speed 30ft
7 ranks per level
Diplomacy +8 (2 ranks)
Knowledge (local) +7 (2 ranks)
Perform (oratory) +7 (1 rank)
Perception +6 (2 ranks)
Sense Motive +6 (2 ranks)
Spellcraft +6 (2 ranks)
Use Magic Device +7 (1 rank)
Disable Device +5 (2 ranks)
Rostlander: +1 Fortitude
Reactionary: +2 Initiative
Racial Abilities:
Bonus Feat
Class Abilities:
Eye for detail: gains bonus of half his level to Knowledge (local), Perception, Sense motive, and diplomacy attempts to gather information.
Bardic Performance: Careful Teamwork, Countersong, Distraction
Arcane Insight
Point Blank Shot: +1 to hit and damage within 30'
Rapid Shot: -2 to hit for one extra arrow on a full attack
Level 0 Spells: Read Magic, Detect Magic, Message, Sift, Light
Level 1 (3 per day): Charm Person, Grease, Detect Secret Doors
Longbow 75 gp 1d8 X3 100ft 3lbs P
Dagger 2gp 1d4 19-20/X2 10ft 1lb P or S
Chain Shirt 100 gp +4 AC +5 Dex -2 Penalty 20% spell failure 30ft 25lbs
Current carry weight is 44lbs
Gold 23
100 arrows 5gp 15lbs
|Black Thom
|DM - Tareth
|DM - Tareth
Now recruiting for two new PC's to join this ongoing Kingmaker campaign. Current party is level 3 and we are still working through "Stolen Land". Please note that this campaign is heavily modified from the published material.
Point buy and restrictions are still as listed at the beginning of this thread except characters can be raised to 3rd level. Check the Discussion thread for current party needs, although final selection will be based on background as well as class and crunch.
|Zain Ashvale
Ooooh Kingmaker
I'm hoping to apply as a Half-Orc Ranger
|Andrei Avotrus
Can you confirm if the book limitation is still in place?
I read the discussion threads of your AP, and there seem to be a number of suggestions that your group seemed interested in such as a Magus or a Crypt Breaker Alchemist but these would not be allowed under your current build rules.
Anyway, I think I will submit a "Mr Hyde" Alchemist regardless, with an intent to move into the Master Chymist PrC, naturally roleplaying the two different personalities which I think would be rather fun.
I'll work up a backstory and crunch shortly.
Vasily Forrest, Human Ranger (archery combat style).
Lady Manderly, Lady of White Harbor, Warden of White Knife, Defender of the Dispossessed, Dame Commander of the Green Hand, is the widow of Lord Medvyed's closest friends, Lord Wyman Manderly. Lord Wyman was a frequent companion on Lord Medvyed's long circuits of the Gronzi, hunting bandits and game with equal aplomb. He died an untimely death almost two decades ago, victim of a strange wasting disease that neither clerics nor alchemists could cure.
Lord Medvyed grew close to Vasily's mother as they comforted each other in their grief and he continued to make White Knife a frequent stop on his circuits of his forest realm. Over the course of years, their friendship grew into something more, resulting in Vasily- a fifth child for Lady Manderly and a sixth for Lord Medvyed. Though it took considerable effort, Lady Manderly's pregnancy was kept secret and after a trip east to give birth she returned to White Knife with an infant.
Vasily was raised in a castle alongside his legitimate siblings, and he learned sword work and governance at their side. His ultimate goal was to become an armsman of House Manderly, though, and recently started riding out with House soldiers on bandit suppression missions, where he has learned woodcraft and bandit tactics as well as what a professional soldiery looks like on the march.
Lord Medvyed is known to be a doting parent, and while he cannot acknowledge Vasily he visits White Knife often during the course of his circuit riding throughout his holdings. Vasily was raised as a member of Lady Manderly's household alongside her trueborn children, never knowing he is the son of the great lord or his lady.
He sees the Swordlords expedition into the wilds south of Brevoy as an opportunity to carve out something for himself. In Brevoy he knows he can never be anything more than an armsman, while the siblings he was raised with are lords and ladies. In a new barony- or even a new country altogether- he can be whatever he wants, so long as he works hard enough.
He'll either have the Bastard or Noble Born trait, I'm not sure which yet. I'm leaning toward Noble Born with the fey bonuses, which would reflect an ancient pact the Medvyed have with the forest fey. The fey wouldn't care that he's a bastard, just that he has Medvyed blood in his veins.
While he's not a noble himself, Vasily absorbed many of the lessons his noble half-siblings were given and has an ear for political rumor. He's a ranger by training but has the heart of a political operator.
This is part of his motivation to join this expedition, in fact. While Lady Manderly never treated him differently from her other sons, he could never escape the fact that his name was his greatest stumbling block. In Brevoy Vasily Forrest could never be anything but a soldier. Outside Brevoy, though, he can be anything the strength of his arm and the quickness of his wit can bring him.
|DM - Tareth
Can you confirm if the book limitation is still in place?
I read the discussion threads of your AP, and there seem to be a number of suggestions that your group seemed interested in such as a Magus or a Crypt Breaker Alchemist but these would not be allowed under your current build rules.
Anyway, I think I will submit a "Mr Hyde" Alchemist regardless, with an intent to move into the Master Chymist PrC, naturally roleplaying the two different personalities which I think would be rather fun.
I'll work up a backstory and crunch shortly.
I'm willing to lift the book restrictions at this point. (With the PRD I'm much more comfortable allowing books I'm not as familiar with.) However, I'm not a fan of the Ultimate Combat classes, so steer clear of those. Archetypes are fine.
|DM - Tareth
|The Little King
|The Little King
ginganinja wrote:I'm willing to lift the book restrictions at this point. (With the PRD I'm much more comfortable allowing books I'm not as familiar with.) However, I'm not a fan of the Ultimate Combat classes, so steer clear of those. Archetypes are fine.
Can you confirm if the book limitation is still in place?
I read the discussion threads of your AP, and there seem to be a number of suggestions that your group seemed interested in such as a Magus or a Crypt Breaker Alchemist but these would not be allowed under your current build rules.
Anyway, I think I will submit a "Mr Hyde" Alchemist regardless, with an intent to move into the Master Chymist PrC, naturally roleplaying the two different personalities which I think would be rather fun.
I'll work up a backstory and crunch shortly.
I'm sure it doesn't, but I have to ask, does the book restriction lift apply also to races? The Samsaran fits perfectly with my chirurgeon build, but I'll understand if you don't want to mess with it.
HP: 8 + 2d8 ⇒ 8 + (7, 7) = 22
|Tamina Rugatonn
Vasily's in-progress sheet is on Myth Weavers here.
Most of the numbers are put together, just need to buy gear and settle on traits.
|Ford C. Benett
Sounds like you guys could use a ranger type. This is more a PFS character, I'll work on making him lvl 3 and fitting his backstory to the campaign.
Short version: he's a cleric who believes he's destined to become a god and replace Aroden, who focuses on negative energy channeling countered by healing spells. A lovely little paradox, and let's be honest, the best way to secure a future divine following is having some hand in rearing a new nation, right?
|Doc Watson
|Ford the Destined
|Andrei Avotrus
Ford something you might want to be aware of is that the party has encounted the Daughter of Erastil who is living in the area. You might have troubles convincing people away from the worship of Erastil. That said if you woe and convince her to marry you that might give you some support in your 'destined' godhood. A background would help.
|Ford the Destined
|Zain Ashvale


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Judge Me: It's Trashy Pop Banger Time
With it being CMJ week here in NYC, there's an overabundance of extremely awesome music to see and hear over the next few days. So what better way to celebrate that, er well...step away from all the cool, than by letting you know which songs I have been losing myself in. And by losing myself, I mean "hey back off me, I'm so overwhelmed and just need some ridiculously awfully awesome trashy pop bangers to cleanse my mind". Yep, we're going there. This is the point in which I relinquish all credibility. Not that I ever had any, eh?
Go for it. Laugh at me for these selections, but here within, I give my reasoning as to why I'mm'a repeat these over and over and over again. So hushies, and pay attention to why these ladies bring out my inner bad (taste) grrrrrll.
Stop what you're doing and think back to a time when Mya was really relevant. Oh right. She wasn't. Some are saying this song is a tragedy and she should fade back into obscurity. I say turn this heat up to 11 and shout out the zodiac signs over this dark thumping beat that sounds like it's a lost cut stolen from Xtina's Bionic recordings. In others words...it's not love...oh baby, it's LUST.
mp3: Nicole Scherzinger - Poison
What sort of suckery is this? Well, it's not. That's what. Thanks to the "oh him again?" production panderings of RedOne, this is the penultimate trashy banger, and I love every second of it. I mean, these lyrics "that bad girl power I got // I'll abuse it tonight // cause tonight // got poison on my mind" is enough to send me in a frenzied fit each and every time. I have never wanted to be a gogo dancer harder than in every moment whilst this plays.
mp3: Kelly Rowland - We Can Do It
It was either this or Cascada's Night Nurse...so there you have it.


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State Budget Director John Nixon stepping down
Snyder deputy chief of staff John Roberts to replace him
Gov. Rick Snyder announced today state Budget Director John Nixon plans to resign at the end of the month to take a job as the chief business officer at the University of Utah.
Replacing Nixon, 41, as budget director will be Snyder's deputy chief of staff John Roberts.
Nixon also served as the head of the Department of Management and Budget, and he will be replaced in that role by the state's chief information officer David Behen.
Roberts, 32, and Behen 44, will begin serving in their new roles March 1. Behen will receive an annual salary of $165,000 and Roberts will receive a salary of $149,350.
Behen will retain his role as CIO. Roberts will be replaced as Snyder's deputy chief of staff by Beth Clement, 36, who is the deputy legal counsel in the executive office. She also will begin her new role March 1.
Snyder said Nixon will be missed and wished he would have stayed because of how well he had done his job.
"John has done great work for us," Snyder said.
Fighting back tears, Nixon said the decision to leave was much more difficult than his decision, previous to joining the Snyder team, to leave his native Utah and become a part of the Snyder administration.
"I really loved my job here," he said.
But the chance to move back to Utah and be closer to family, and also to work at the university, was a once in a lifetime chance, he said.
Nixon said he received the offer from the university just before Thanksgiving and made final decision after Christmas. He said he wanted to stay on through the presentation of the governor's budget, which took place earlier this month.
Nixon has served as Snyder's budget director throughout his term in office after serving in a similar role for the state of Utah.
In 2012, Nixon was named public official of the year by Governing magazine, for his role in the state's turnaround.
Chris Gautz: 1-517-403-4403, firstname.lastname@example.com. Twitter: @chrisgautz


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[quote user="nycsportzfan"]I knew Jason pIerre paul's arm length combined with his athletic ability was gonna be a huge weapon for who ever drafted him! Dudes a beast and its not often i see guys who don't have a TON of expierence and think there gonna be good rather quickly in the NFL but JPP was one guy i did! Becasue of how quickly he produced from his what 1yr of high school ball to 1yr of Community college to one yr of Bigtime college ball? He didn't need any time to pick it up at those levels and i figured then that he was just one of those rare breeds of player that just has a calling card to play football and picks it up quickly and he has! most were downright fearful of picking him in RD 1 as they thought he had BUST written all over him but because of how quickly he seemed to pick things up at his prior levels he grew on me and became a guy i wanted and thought would produce quickly! Great pick!
[/quote]U have to remember JPP struggled for the first 10 games last year.He graded out last year as one of the worst pass rushers in the NFL.He got way more snaps then he was supposed to because of Kiwis injury.This allowed him to work out the kinks and by week 11 he started to figure it out.Kiwis injury I believe pushed his development a year up. That being said the growthnow to Year 2 has been staggering. To go from where he was at South Florida to the player that was on the field last night is insane


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I'm declaring a variable within
int main(), and then, in one line, altering its value by passing it by reference to a function, then outputting it via
cout <<. Only problem is,
cout <<is printing the original initialized value of the variable to the screen, rather than the newly altered version. I have come up with a solution, but I don't like it. Actually, the code is simple enough that I can post it (below). It's a simple Half Adder function. Take two binary inputs, output the result and the carry. I pass the carry by reference, and have the function return the result of the addition.
#include <iostream> using namespace std; bool HalfAdder(bool, bool, bool&); int main(int argc, char ** argv){ bool input[] = {true, true}; bool carry = false; cout << "Result is " << HalfAdder(input[0], input[1], carry) << " carry is " << carry << endl; system("PAUSE"); return 0; }//end of main bool HalfAdder(bool a, bool b, bool& carry){ if( a & b ){ //1 + 1 = 0, carry = 1 carry = true; return false; }//end of if else{ //1 + 0 = 1, no carry. No carry with 0 + 0 either carry = false; //1 + 0 = 1; 0 + 0 = 0 return (a || b) ? true : false; }//end of else }//end of HalfAdder()
If you run this, unfortunately, carry is always 0. False. Because it's initialized as false. This, of course, despite the fact that I pass it by reference in the call. While I'm sure the C/C++ veterans have probably already scrolled down to the reply box by now, for those of you still reading, I'd like to offer a theory for some feedback (I'll do the research later tonight). I believe that the problem is that I'm passing HalfAdder as a parameter to the << member function of cout on the same line that I pass carry to another instance of <<.
So while I expected this sort of thing to happen:
cout.operator<<("Result is"); cout.operator<<(HalfAdder()); cout.operator<<("carry is"); cout.operator<<(carry);
What really happened is something like...
cout.operator<<("Result is", HalfAdder(), "carry is", carry);
Not that exactly, but that basic concept. What I mean is, maybe all of the parameters I passed to << were copied immediately, and then HalfAdder() was executed, so that even though carry has been altered, it's too late; the original value of carry was copied already. I tested this out by running the same code but adding an extra line before
cout << "Result is " << HalfAdder(input[0], input[1], carry) << " carry is " << carry << endl; cout << "But the true carry is " << carry << endl; system("PAUSE");
And, hey, it says the true carry is 1, as expected. That's actually pretty amazing. I never even thought of that. Oddly enough, I compiled this in Dev-C++ before handing it in for class, and I assume it worked fine, otherwise I probably wouldn't have handed it in. Is it even remotely possible this is a compiler-specific thing? My most recent build of it where I noticed the error was in MSVC++2012.
Anyway, thanks for your time. Sorry if this was too much too read. I just think it's a pretty cool error to have made.


text:
Wish me luck! Tomorrow I'm attempting my very first cutout. Bees in the ceiling of a room - should be simple enough - remove the drywall and remove the bees.
I know it's late in the year to do a cutout, but if I don't get these bees, they will be sprayed. Besides, I am getting paid for this job.
Just ended up setting up aother cutout this coming weekend. People nearby claim bees moved in over the weekend and they want rid of them. I've agreed to do it - again - if I don't they will get sprayed. I'm giving the homeowner a suit so he can do the "destruction" to get to the bees, my job is to cut them out once the colony is located. Being a new swarm - they shouldn't have very much comb to cut out.


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Deer ticks and Lyme disease
Jan. 21, 2012, the Star Tribune published an article entitled, "Warm winters bring invested springs — pesky ticks like warm winters too."
A key fact we learned from last year includes a quote from David Neitzel, Minnesota Department of Health epidemiologist: "If enough ticks are able to find suitable conditions, they will survive from year to year, and their populations expand. Just as warm weather can keep ticks alive, heavy snowfalls can protect them from harshly cold temperatures."
This is the contradiction. Unusually warm weather such as we experienced last winter, and so far this winter, will mean even moderate to heavy amounts of snowfall will melt quickly. Melting snow works to the benefit of tick proliferation because ticks require wet conditions to survive.
Perhaps the northern Minnesota climate in the 2013 winter season will regress back to that of past winters, with deep snow and bitterly cold temperatures.
As of Wednesday, Jan. 9, however, the sun shone all day. The temperature started out at 28 degrees, and by afternoon reached 39 degrees. Snow melted wherever the sun was shining.
The temperature Jan. 10 reached 43 degrees. Jan. 11, the temperature at 5 a.m. was 36 degrees with rain.
If these mild winters persist, we can be assured of another significant tick infestation starting in the next two to three months. Therefore, it is important that people be continually made aware of the eminent dangers of Lyme disease.
I highly recommend that anyone who is reading this letter obtain a copy of a DVD called "Under Our Skin." Order a copy for $35.95 by emailing email@example.com or contact Open Eye Pictures: Sausalito, Calif., at 415-332-3266.
It will help to make you and your family aware of the devastating consequences of Lyme disease, and the simple steps people can take to prevent incurrence or recurrence.
Bob Uppgaard,
Pequot Lakes


text:
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Internal Combustion
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|Remove the Pistons
|Level 8 - Demanding
|Puzzle Master
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|2 1/3 in x 2 1/3 in x 1 1/3 in / 6 cm x 6 cm x 3.4 cm
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Product Description
Made from solid brushed aluminum, Internal Combustion is an ingenious design where the object is to free the four interlocked pistons from the chamber. The pistons have notches and look just like ordinary Burr pieces, so you need to learn a correct sequence of movements if you want to put them back in the chamber. Designed by Tado Muroi in the early 1900's and produced by our PuzzleMaster shop in Canada.
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5 out of 5 stars
Disclaimer: These reviews are written by our customers. Puzzle Master makes every attempt to keep these posts informative and relevant. If you find a post objectionable or inappropriate, please let us know by sending an email to firstname.lastname@example.com
I got all of the blocks out pretty quickly...within minutes. But, I just can't get the blocks back in. I need to get directions to return the puzzle to it's original format.
This is one excellent puzzle. I found that it can be put back in different ways, thus the solution changes. In terms of difficulty, I would rate it no more than 7, but other than that it is just a cool one.
A good idea for a puzzle like this. Amazingly structured. Easy to disasemble once you figure what the inside structure is like, but hard to asemble once you disasemble it.
A relatively easy challenge to get it apart. My 7 year old son even got that. The real test is to try and get it back together, especially if you are not watching the order in which pieces came out, and from where. Good value for the money. Get's your guests interested in puzzles quickly.
Hard to put back together...Fun to watch other people struggle to get it apart..
I found it easy to take apart. As with most puzzle, it is harder to put back together. I'd rate it a skill level 7. It should baffle friends and beginner puzzlers just fine.


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If I have 2 deeps, come spring my bees are in the top deep. so I read that I should reverse the deeps and start with the brood in the bottom. then in another thread I read about needing to make a "hole" in the brood nest to make room for the queen to lay eggs because they back fill around the top and keep making the nest smaller.
so my ? is, why not just let them in the top and as they fill the top of the frames it will push the queen and brood nest down naturally


text: I enjoy driving with the windows down. All the time. Even opening the rear glass. I know on the K5s they roll down into the tailgate... awesomely jelous of that. But, the exhaust is pretty ripe when I do that... clearly the catt. has gone bad. but that's not the point point is I'm going to get new exhaust as my next "thing" for the truck and was wondering how you may have roughed it to avoid smelling it and possibly dyeing like the kid from "buck wild" did.... did you go duel or single? Where did it end? Etc. It's a big problem with our trucks because the ass end is so big, exhaust and dust is just drawn there and stays in an "eddy" in wind tunnel testing


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Alaska is a uniquely beautiful and captivating place. I'm proud to call it my place of birth - and I'm always pleased to return for a visit.ReplyDelete
With elderly parents to tend to and spoil while I'm there, I don't get out into the beauty of the wild places in these recent years. Thanks for sharing your visit, and for the beautiful photos.
*Also glad it wasn't your own hair that was burning!
All the best in the New Year -
Mary, my life plan used to include buying a small dry cabin in Fairbanks where I could live and work in the winter, and spending most of my summers mobile. Maintaining a place like that is definitely an endurance sport in itself. Would be fun, though, in its own way. Especially when I learn how to not burn my stuff on the wood stove. :-)ReplyDelete
- Anonymous8:07 PM
hey Jill its Chris D. Great post and pics. glad to hear you are back in Alaska for a bit. I'm housesitting at Geoff and Libby's. Skiing seems to be getting better and better here. We miss you here in Juneau. Sean's bday tonight at sandy beach. take care and would be great to see you sooner than later!ReplyDelete


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Prepared for the Higher Learning Commission of the NCA Accreditation 2004
Cover of Printed Version
Table of Contents for Printed Version
Unit 1: Introduction
Unit 2: Criterion IThe institution has clear and publicly stated purposes consistent with its mission and appropriate to an institution of higher education.
Unit 3: Criterion IIThe institution has effectively organized the human, financial, and physical resources necessary to accomplish its purposes.
Unit 4: Criterion IIIThe institution is accomplishing its educational and other purposes.
Unit 5: Criterion IVThe institution can continue to accomplish its purpose and strengthen its educational effectiveness.
Unit 6: Criterion VThe institution demonstrates integrity in its policies and relationships.
Unit 7: Summary
Unit 8: Request for Institutional Change
Unit 9: Appendices
Copyright © 2017 Ball State University 2000 W. University Ave. Muncie, IN 47306
800-382-8540 and 765-289-1241


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Be part of the Contra Costa County Fair by being a volunteer! Volunteering is a wonderful and fulfilling way to give back to the community. Teen and adult volunteers are encouraged to participate. Go to Web Link for an application.
Read the full story here Web Link posted Monday, April 29, 2013, 5:00 PM
Town Square
Volunteer at the County Fair
Original post made on Apr 30, 2013
Like this commentPosted by Bill
a resident of Danville
on Apr 30, 2013 at 7:13 am
Our family has never considered the Contra County County Fair our area fair. We, as well as most of our neighbors have always considered the Alameda County Fair in Pleasanton our County Fair. If you had the choice of Antioch or Pleasanton for your county fair which would you want to take your kids to?
Like this commentPosted by Student
a resident of another community
on May 20, 2013 at 9:13 am
Anyone hiring at the Fairgrounds to pay money.... for summer work?
Like this commentPosted by Linda
a resident of Diablo
on May 28, 2013 at 7:36 pm
Contra Costa Fairgrounds is ghetto--no thanks. San Mateo's is Mexico--dangerous if u wear red or blue.


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Re: CREST Information
There are some pentest jobs in certain countries, that does require a high clearance. Well, they require it at least in Denmark and Australia for doing special type of government work naturally.
But it wouldn't surprise me if a NATO clearance will be required soon, meaning it will be even harder for newbies to get into ethical hacking. I can understand that for certain projects (when you are already having the job), e.g. here, that you're getting an extensive background check.


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SSX is a snowboarding game for Next-Gen game consoles that continues the over-the-top Arcade style fun that the long-running SSX franchise is famous for. The game features racing and trick gameplay both in single player and multiplayer options, with runs set across the mountains of the world using real-world NASA topographical data. Additional features include: new and returning franchise favorite characters, global events and the ability to race against ghost images representing a friend's time on a run, real-world conditions like avalanches, rockslides and freezing temperatures, and more.
A modern-day reinvention of one of the most critically acclaimed franchises of the last generation, SSX returns packing adrenaline and reality-defying gameplay into every moment. In this over-the-top snowboarding extravaganza players jump into the boots of your favorite SSX character -- including those featured in previous releases in the franchise -- and race, trick, and survive the world's most iconic mountain ranges. Based on real-world NASA topographical data, each mountain range delivers an experience true to the franchise's rich history, allowing you to defy reality and own the planet.
Along with racing and trick performance gameplay in which you pull off runs and sick jumps to build point multipliers and earn in-game currency, SSX includes the ability to explore the gameworld with minimal barriers as to where you can go. Additionally the game contains multiplayer options including the ability to compete in live events against real people in real-time on every drop in the game or to race against the posted times of friends in which ghosts of your friends' runs are visible in your world showing you exactly how they performed. Improve on these runs and earn in-game cash and if your ghost beats opponents reap additional benefits the next time you sign in.
Defy gravity in Trick play.
View larger.
Chase the times of friends.
View larger.
Race in global events.
View larger.
Survive treacherous conditions.
View larger.
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puroresu.com. All rights reserved. Privacy


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Nice, congrats....
Just purchased another Baer. Purchased a UTC earlier this year and carry it daily. I thought I needed another full size just to put in the rotation, grin. This one is Hard Chromed, should be here late next week.
Outstanding! Nothing feels better in your hand than a 1911!
That's a beautiful slabside! I wan a Baer, but will have to save more to get there. Congrats!
Very nice, very, very nice.
That is nice! Use it in good health. Yiogo
Very nice indeed! Ya' gotta love a 1911 in your hands!!


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How about J. Clowney from South Carolina. He is a beast.
The worst team in the league next year will be able to draft Clowney, and probably have Tyrann Mathieu available to them with their 2nd pick. Imagine a defense adding those two.
Mathieu is perfect for a cover 2 team. Is his height a hindrance? Sure, especially against some bigger receivers. But when put in a proper system, it shouldn't negate what he has shown. Some team will take an early flyer on him.
They both had a drug issue. Hosley's failed test came at the combine and was for marijuana. Mathieu's was multiple failed drug tests and some reports say he failed the test for multiple drugs, though it cannot be confirmed.
The position Mathieu played last year was more similar to a safety, he was not asked to cover man as much and when he was asked to do it, it was vs the #3 wr. He had marginal success at best when asked to play in man.
Josley was the best cover corner on VT's defense and was always lined up man on the opponents #1 wr every week despite, in some cases, massive size differences. He excelled in man coverage.
Mathieu has had numberous other off the field issues as well as some issues with ignorant tweets, similar if not on the same scale as Will Hill did coming out.
Mathieu is VERY selfish and NOT a team player. People need to understand that the failed drug test and subsequent dismissal from the LSU program perhaps saved LSU's program from future NCAA sanctions. Reportedly Mathieu was paid, among other things, to promote a nightclub. The NCAA is looking into this now but reports are saying that LSU only recently was made aware of the story and doesnt think any rules were broken. However, had Mathieu played this year, there likely would have been problems for the LSU program since it appears the offense happened most recently during the summer. This kid has some serious maturing to do.
Lastly, he is sitting out the year and that in itself usually will lower a guy's value by a round or so.
So despite all these differences, Hosely fell to the end of the 3rd round. Mathieu, unless he changes his ways I could see this kid going 3rd -5th. Again, I just dont see how a 5' 9" guy can play in the NFL if he cannot cover. The only position he can likely play is nickle cb and that is assuming he finds a way to cover a NFL caliber WR.


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Feel Porto Downtown City Break
Størrelse180 m²
Etasje2(med heis)
- Familie / Barne vennlig
- Internett/WiFi
- Kjøkken
- Vaskemaskin / tørketrommel
- Heis i bygningen
- Håndklær
- Oppvaskmaskin
Oversikt over eiendommen
|Rua Sá da Bandeira, 4000-435 Porto, Portugal
|Eiendoms ID
|< 50%
|Innen noen få timer
|Kalender oppdatert
|4 dager siden
Guests can also find all kind of transportation facilities within walking distance as well as a combo of local stores, restaurants, cafes and the farmer's market just across the street.
You are visiting Porto but would you like to explore the surroundings of the city? Just walk about 200 meters and you will find the main metro station – Trindade – which has metro/trains going to all other towns and beaches around Porto.
Are you looking to come on a holiday to celebrate a milestone on your life such as anniversary, birthday, graduation, retirement or even a marriage proposal? Let us know and we will assist you surprising your better half, family or friends with something special from flowers to Port wine, chocolates or champagne on your arrival.
But if you are traveling to Porto with your business partners, this apartment it's your best choice! You do have the space to work and to host your meetings without the hassle of having to book a meeting room well in advance at a hotel. And if you need stationary ready on your arrival just let us know and we can take care of that for you.
We are looking forward to welcome you in our place which will be your home away from home during your stay in Porto!
Video: http://youtu.be/w7O-ut3_ENU
HusreglerWhen you arrive to the apartment, our representative will be waiting to welcome you and to give you the keys. He will also explain to you the connection to the Wi-Fi internet.
Towels, linen and hairdryer are available for you to use during your stay.
We do have a tablet available with Wi Fi at a cost of EUR2.00 per day.
We offer pick-up and drop-off services from/to the airport and from/to Campanhã Train Station at an additional cost (please let us know of your request at the time of your booking and we will send you the prices).
EUR200.00 reimbursable key deposit.
Smoking is permitted at the window.
If you wish to bring your pet with you, please contact us in advance.
|Pris for >6 gjester
|208 NOK pr. gjest/natt ekstra
|Innsjekking etter
|Check-in før
|Utsjekking før
Vurdering av denne eiendommen
Das Apartment ist sehr zentral gelegen. Cafés! Restaurants sowie 2 Supermärkte in unmittelbarer Nähe. Das Apartment ist sauber und gut ausgestattet. Wir haben uns mit 7 Personen dort sehr wohl gefühlt. Ich und meine Freunde können dieses Apartment auf jedenfall weiter empfehlen. Danke für die vielen Tipps in und um Porto. Lieben Gruß Anja & friends
Vurderinger for denne vertens andre eiendommer
We were very satisfied of the choice we make. The comfort and accommodation of the apartment was super and the location was central to visit the city.
Had a great stay in Porto. The apartment is in the centre of town and close to all the fabulous activities that Porto has to offer. The apartment was well appointed and staff responded quickly to our needs when called upon to replace an electrical appliance and help us with the tv. Warning that the car parking on site is not open on Sundays and you must make alternative arrangements if needing your car on that day. Hired bikes one day and went on the day trip to Regua on another - both great
Very nice and well equipped apartment, but rather cold in the early spring. Nicely located and beautiful view over the river and the city.
The little village and harbour down by the river (south bank) is really charming (10 min. walk).
Hope to come back!
We had a wunderful Holiday week in Porto. Appartment is very clean and nice.
Thanks for all.
Family Weiss from Germany
Very good location Near center of Porto, with a really Nice huge balcony, but the 2 bathrooms cannot be used in order to previsions : there's no water in bath of one of them, and the shower turn the other into big swimming-pool.
Thanks Bruno and Rui,
We had a great stay in your appartement in Arcozelo!!
Especially the colors inside and space were very nice. Which made feeling at home abroad.
To be this close to the beach and fishermans landing spot was great, our son really enjoyed the boulevard and playing at the beach. The small bar on the corner (Ela's bar) was a perfect hangout with nice tapas and perfect Mojito's. Especially for us parents with young kid to enjoy the beach wit a drink while our kid was playing on the beach.
Bruno was very helpfull and even offered to pick us up at in Porto. Although there is a trainstop in the town (5 min walk from appartement) it is nice to rent a car to be free to explore the coast and drive into Porto again. (advise: reserve/ book the car online before you travail; when we arrived at the airport all cars were out and price was about 10 times higher...)
Thanks again and till next time,
Mtoto Keijzer
Gezellig en modern appartement. Met geweldig mooi uitzicht over Porto. Ruime slaapkamers. Twee nette badkamers. En complete keuken.
Vlakbij de haven, strandje, zee en rotsen. Lekker rustig, en toch met een kwartiertje in de oude stad Porto. Met name om het uitzicht zouden wij hier zeker terug komen.
Schönes und funktionalen Appartementhaus mit guter Ausstattung in ruhiger Lage. Parkmöglichkeit direkt vorm Haus. Bis ans Ufer des Douro benötigt man allerdings bei portugiesischen Normalverkehr gut 20 - 30 Minuten. Staus nach Porto hinein sind hier halt an der Tagesordnung. Trotzdem ein guter Ausgangspunkt für Ausflüge ins Umland. Pool wird nicht geheizt aber die Außenanlagen sind top gepflegt. Küche ist ebenfalls gut ausgestattet. Alles da was man so braucht. Lediglich die Außenrollos sind überholungsbedürftig und nicht so funktional wie man es sich wünschen würde. Alles in allem durchaus wieder eine Überlegung wert wenn man denn ein zweites Mal nach Porto kommt. Ach ja, Einkaufsmöglichkeiten wie Lidl oder Continente sind in 10 Minuten mit dem Pkw zu erreichen. Uns hat es jedenfalls gefallen.
- Kvalitetssikret innkvartering
- Hver vert er verifisert via telefon
- Sikker betaling med SSL-kryptering


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HP CloudSystem Consulting Service is a highly customizable service that provides you with end-to-end cloud consulting and integration assistance for your HP CloudSystem deployment.
As an integrated system, HP CloudSystem arrives with much of the integration already complete, and HP Installation Services completes the work to deliver a standard running system. By combining these startup services with HP CloudSystem Consulting Service, you can ensure proper integration into your existing IT environment, facilitate the customization of your system, and accelerate integration with your security systems, datacenter operations, and identified use cases.
HP CloudSystem Consulting Service is offered in fixed- price increments for maximum flexibility in meeting your specific project needs and objectives.
Join HP experts Christian Verstraete, Paul Muller, Raf Los, E.G. Nadhan, and more every Thursday at 1 p.m. ET on Twitter to discuss relevant topics surrounding cloud solutions and enterprise security.
Use #ConvCloud or #HPProtect to join the conversation.
Connect with HP cloud experts like Ewald Comhaire to learn about efficient ways to build your hybrid delivery cloud solution on HP CloudSystem.
© Copyright 2017 HP Development Company, L.P.


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Viaduct Entrance
this wiki
The Viaduct Entrance is a large vestibule at Hogwarts Castle, located at one end of the Long Gallery. It is a large entrance room — although it is not the main entrance hall — and it has a very high ceiling and windows, a large stone staircase leading to the first floor via the Tapestry Corridor, students' lockers, and the Hogwarts' crest on the floor. Large wooden double doors open to the exterior, while an archway leads down a spiral staircase into the Dungeon Corridor. A list of students could also be found in this room, as could a portrait of Google Stump, in the 1995-1996 school year. The Terrace is found outside the building.
During the Battle of Hogwarts, on the morning of 2 May, 1998, there was fighting in this hall. Fire roared inside, and most of the windows were broken. By dawn, most of the ceiling had caved in.
Behind the scenes
- The interior shown in the video games seems to be based on the Chamber of Reception.
- It can be seen in the main menu of the DVD version of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. However, the layout seems to be similar to the Entrance Hall in the books, with a door leading to the Great Hall on the right. According to the films this is incorrect, as the Great Hall is located in a different part of the castle. It is also shown in most of the video games.
- This building has a tower on each of its four corners. These are (clockwise from Stone Bridge): Left Viaduct Tower, Myrtle's Bathroom Tower, Herbology Tower and the Right Viaduct Tower.
- Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (film) (First appearance)
- Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (film)
- Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (film)
- Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (film) (First interior shot on DVD 1 menu)
- Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (film)
- Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (video game) (First identified as Viaduct Entrance)
- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (film)
- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (video game)
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (video game)
- The Queen's Handbag
Notes and references


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Hello, I just came back from delivering some honey to a farmer friend, and we were talking about all the rain we have had here in VA this spring. It has made it hard for the bees and the farmers. I was asking him about white clover, and he showed me a part of his farm that the pastures were full of blooming white clover.
This is a two part question.
1) If the clover is still blooming, (which it is), is it still producing nector or can I expect it to over by now.
2) Should I move some of my hives to his farm, which is about 15 miles from here, since the only thing blooming around the house is thistle, and what we call paridise trees.
Thanks Charlie


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Good Neighbor: Devils Thumb Ranch
March 19, 2013
Shelley Madsen, special education professional at East Grand Middle School, nominated Devil's Thumb Ranch for the Good Neighbor award. She writes:
"The Devil's Thumb Ranch stables graciously hosted our class of special needs students from East Grand Middle School. Garth and Nikki at the Stables could not have given our students a more positive experience. They were helpful, patient, and showed everyone a great time. Garth and Nikki took us on a morning feed sleigh ride. Our students were able to interact, feed and pet with all the animals on the ranch. After we fed all the cows and horses we then continued with a scenic sleigh ride around the ranch. We finished our mornings warming up by the campfire with hot chocolate and s'mores. One of our students enjoyed his first s'more, exciting! Everyone loved their time at the ranch and we owe it all to our new friends Garth and Nikki. Truly a memorable experience. Thank you.


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In June, Maine became the 41st state to allow public charter schools; this was one of three top administration priorities described to the Phoenix this winter by LePage transition team member Tarren Bragdon, former CEO of the conservative Maine Heritage Policy Center think tank (the other two were health-insurance reform and the indefinitely postponed right-to-work bill). Governor Paul LePage and the Republican majority share the support of President Barack Obama, who championed charter schools in Illinois, and some Maine Democrats.
"The governor wants to change the way we look at education," says Carol Weston, former state legislator and current state director for Americans For Prosperity, a Washington, DC-based conservative advocacy organization that supports charter schools and reduced government regulation (and is backed by Tea Party billionaires David and Charles Koch). "Governor LePage wants the face of education to be the student," as opposed to the current model, which she says is "putting bureaucracy first."
Whether or not this reform achieves its goal remains to be seen. Here's what it does do: The charter-school bill (LD 1553, An Act to Create a Public Charter School Program in Maine) establishes a seven-member state-charter school commission that will oversee the authorization of 10 such schools within the next 10 years. Local school boards may authorize additional charter schools in that same time frame, but the commission allows for the establishment of a charter school even in a charter-unfriendly town.
In the bill, a public charter school is described as one that has "autonomy over key decisions, including [those]...concerning finance, personnel, scheduling, curriculum, and instruction." In other words, charter schools are free to innovate and experiment, while being bound by fewer bureaucratic encumbrances and strict government regulations, and hopefully sharing best practices with other schools. In Maine, an authorized charter school "may include a specific academic approach or theme," such as vocational training, farming, fishing, and forestry, visual and performing arts, or science, math, and technology. (The Maine School of Science and Mathematics, which may come to mind, is a competitive-entry magnet school.)
Charter schools are public in that there's no tuition, and enrollment is open to any student who wants to attend the school (if that number exceeds capacity, the school should employ a "random selection process"). But there are certain exceptions that give critics ammunition: enrollment "preferences" are outlined in the bill, including for siblings of charter school pupils and children of charter school founders and board members.
There are limitations to ensure that a charter school doesn't siphon off more than 5 to 10 percent of local public school students per grade level during the first two years of its operation.
That was a concession from pro-charter folks, aimed at placating opponents like the Maine Education Association (a/k/a the Maine teachers union, representing about 25,000 teachers in the state), the state associations of principals, superintendents, and school boards, and some Democratic lawmakers, including several who represent Portland. Those who oppose charter schools say that the new system will take money away from traditional public schools; state and local education dollars follow students to charter schools, if they choose to switch.
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