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Thyroid disorders
Scientists call for full investigation into the safety of a household chemical after it was linked to thyroid disease
Leyla Ozmenekse, who lives in the United Arab Emirates, travelled to Turley for medical care
Clare Balding intends to present the BBC's coverage of next week's Derby meeting, despite having had surgery to remove her thyroid gland
Bitter scientific squabble over true identity of fossil hobbit takes another acrimonious turn
I'm stuck in a vicious circle. My medication for mood instability keeps me overweight, despite eating healthily, but I'm too insecure to go to the gym. What can I do?
"One of those birds who've fallen out of their nest that you find lying on the pavement ... cadaver-like ... a seagull with thyroid problems ... a meerkat gone 10 rounds with John Prescott." Former Office star Mackenzie Crook says he doesn't mind the way some people describe him, reports the Daily Express. "If I put on weight or become a little healthier looking, the roles would dry up ..."
Her hair fell out, her skin hung off her face and then, when she began radiation therapy for a thyroid disease, the American sprinter was told she might lose her feet. Within two years she was back and winning Olympic gold.
Survivors of the two atomic bombs dropped on Japan at the end of the second world war are now at greater risk of developing certain thyroid diseases, including tumours and cysts, according to a study.
Bad enough for men, hair loss can be traumatic for women. Dr John Briffa says sometimes all a healthy scalp needs is seeds, steak and seaweed.
Having had two major operations this year (one an emergency appendicectomy, the other for thyroid cancer), I support Jenni Russell's excellent piece (Comment, June 26) - as far as it goes.
When Amanda Craig lost her voice after an operation for thyroid cancer, she found she really started to hear what her children had to say.
January 22: Janica Kostelic underwent an operation to remove her thyroid gland, but her injury problems may still not be over.
Dr Ann Robinson on a hormonal problem, ways of checking your heart, and itchy feet.
Dear doctorDr Ann Robinson
Dr Ann Robinson on a tennis twang and a new mother's trouble with her thyroid.
I take regular exercise, but get cramp in my legs, usually at night. Why?
An alternative look at health issues. This week: hitting a high note, kicking the valium habit, and exercises for your thyroid gland.
Peter Silverton knew something was up when his wife ate 10 meals a day. But they discovered she had Graves' disease.
The Chernobyl disaster will cause 50,000 new cases of thyroid cancer among young people living in the worst-affected region, World Health Organisation researchers say.
No one knows how old Lal is - though he is probably in his eighties. All that the villagers know for certain is that throughout his life he has been bent double by the weight of a huge goitre - a grotesque swelling of the thyroid gland caused by iodine deficiency - which hangs from his neck.


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Creating a church culture that reaches African-American men
We must create a new culture within the church. This culture must attract black men without compromising God's standards and must provide a "safe haven" where these men can express themselves as they learn about God's plan for them and their families.
Jesus did not become like the world to save it, but He did speak in terms the world could understand. Here are some practical ways the church can begin to do that for African-American men.
I also recognize the value of wearing your "Sunday best" to show honor to God. But we must make sure that our effort to honor God does not discourage others from getting to know Him. If you don't have time to build a relationship with someone to lovingly help him with his attire, you certainly don't have time to criticize
MICHAEL A. STEVENS is the founder of University City Church in Charlotte, N.C., and a superintendant of the Church of God in Christ.
Leaders are readers! Subscribe now and get 3 magazines for the price of 1. Get Ministry Today, Charisma and SpiritLed Woman all for $24. YES - I'm a leader!
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Owner of secret pot bakery wants to stay under cover
SEATTLE - A secret pot bakery operating on Capitol Hill is legal, but the owner wants to keep his business under cover, KIRO 7 Eyewitness News reported.
The medical marijuana kitchen is called Manja Ganja. It produces pot-laced brownies, cookies and peanut butter cups.
Dante Jones, who runs the bakery, said that he is keeping the location of the business secret because of security concerns.
Jones is hoping to cash in on the "green boom" once marijuana sales are regulated by the state.
"Once they have licensed retail stores it's definitely going to be a place where anybody over the age of 21 can come and get a marijuana brownie," Jones said.
Jones said that he does not sell to the public. He only distributes to medical marijuana dispensaries.
Washington state is expected to regulate public marijuana sales by next December.


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What do I need to know about trailer towing before I select a towing hitch?
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What type of trailer towing hitch do I need?
Hitches are classified based on the maximum weight they can tow. The more weight a towing hitch can handle, the higher its class. Check the next page for a listing of class to weight breakdown.
What is a ball mount?
This is the unit that slides directly into the hitch receiver on one end and holds the ball on the other end. Using a ball mount with the correct amount of drop or rise will ensure the trailer is level behind the tow vehicle.
Need help selecting a ball for trailer towing?
When buying a ball for your trailer hitch, there are five key considerations in getting the right one.
How do I measure how much drop or rise is needed for towing hitches?
Start by measuring the distance from the top of the hitch receiver to the ground. Then measure the distance from the top of the inside of the trailer coupler to the ground with the trailer level. Subtract the height of the trailer from the height of the hitch; this is the amount of drop needed in your ball mount. If your trailer is higher than your hitch, subtract the hitch height from the trailer height to find the amount of rise needed in your ball mount.
Need some towing accessories?
Once you've got the towing hitch, ball mount and ball selected, you may still need a few more items to finish the job:
Questions about trailer towing safety?
Here are some important things to remember:
The right towing products and towing accessories make all the difference. Get the right towing components for your vehicle!
For more information on how to use the trailer products and trailer accessories you've selected, be sure to stop by the Consumer Education display in the front of your Advance Auto Parts store.
Here are some articles you may find helpful:
Trust Advance Auto Parts for the towing products and towing accessories you need to travel safely -- along with a full array of quality auto parts.


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The Big 5
The term the BIG 5 refers to the following animals:
1. Leopard
2. Lion
3. Black Rhino
4. Buffalo
5. Elephant
Many people think that the term describes the five most difficult animals to see when on safari. In fact the term relates back to hunting days when these animals were considered the most dangerous animals to hunt on foot. This is why the leopard is on the list and the enormous hippopotamus (noted for lazing around in pools and rivers all day) is absent. The Big 5 are among the most dangerous animals in the world.
Due to the decline in Black Rhino populations and the fact that they favour thicker bush over open planes, it has become very rare for people to spot these magnificent animals in the wild. Many lodges will advertise that they have the "Big 5" on their reserve when actually they have the white Rhinoceros and not the black, so if you want to see the true Big 5 make sure the reserve you are visiting includes the Black Rhino!
Here are a few facts about the Big 5:
• Family Felidae
• Mass ± 200 kg / ± 440 lbs
• Height ± 100 cm / ± 39 inches
• Walking speed 4 km/h / 2.4 mph
• Charging speed 80 km/h / 50 mph
• Potential longevity 20 years
• Gestation period 3.5 months
The Lion is a large carnivorous feline mammal (Panthera leo) having a short tawny coat, a tufted tail, and, in the male, a heavy mane around the neck and shoulders. A lion pride consists of related females and cubs residing in a home range or territory, numbering from 2 to 30 individuals. The males are nomads that have gained custody of a pride through competition with other males. The opportunity to monopolise reproduction of a whole group of females will result in a new male to a territory killing the cubs of his predecessor.
Hunting is done communally, often using driving and ambushing techniques. They will eat up to 25% of their own body weight. Their principal diet comprises the Impala, the most prolific of the region's antelope.
• Family - Elephantidae
• Mass 6000 - 7000 kg / 13000 - 15000 lbs
• Height 300 - 340 cm / 118 - 134 inches
• Walking speed 10 km/h / 6.2 mph
• Charging speed 40 km/h / 24.8 mph
• Potential longevity 65 - 70 years
• Gestation period 22 months
• Record length of tusks 3,5 m / 137 inches
The African elephant is the largest land mammal. An adult bull elephant can weigh between 5000 and 6300 kg's, standing 3,2 - 4,0 metres at the shoulder. A cow being slightly smaller, weighing 2800 - 3500 kg and standing 2,5 - 3,4 metres at the shoulder. Bulls usually have larger tusks than cows and a more rounded forehead; the cow is more angled. . Elephant herds are matriarchal with an older cow leading the herd. The herds are usually family groups of up to 16. However, a number of family groups may join together when at watering sites forming large herds numbering several hundred.
The elephant's tusks are just modified incisor teeth, used as weapons and as an aid in procuring certain foodstuffs, like the bark of trees for example. The elephant also has a long trunk which it uses to drink and feed. An elephant's trunk can hold up to 15 litres of water. It uses its trunk to locate food by touch and smell, as an elephant cannot see down its trunk. If an elephant loses the use of its trunk it will die.
• Family Rhinocerotidae
• Mass 3500 kg / 7717 lbs
• Height 160 cm / 63 inches
• Speed 45 km/h / 28 mph
• Potential longevity 45 years
• Gestation period 18 months
• Record length of front horn 158 cm / 62 inches
• Record length of rear horn 56 cm / 22 inches
The herbivorous white rhino has a wide mouth perfectly adapted to a life of grazing. Its thick set body is covered by a tough leathery skin. The most distinctive feature of the rhino is the presence of 2 horns on the snout. These horns are composed of a protein which is similar to that of our own hair. Family groups of 2 - 5 individuals are protected by a dominant bull who defends his cows against other intruding bulls. A number of fixed latrine sites known as rhino middens demarcate a bull's territory. The smaller black rhino has a hooked lip.
• Family Felidae
• Mass ± 60 kg / 132 lbs
• Height ± 60 cm / 23 inches
• Charging speed 80 km/h / 50mph
• Potential longevity 21 years
• Gestation period 3 1/2 months
The leopard is the least seen and least understood of Africa's "Big Five". It has been described as the perfect predator. It harbours enormous strength and supreme beauty and is perhaps the most powerful of the world's great cats. Leopards have a wide habitat tolerance; they are solitary and secretive animals except during mating season or when a female is accompanied by juveniles.
They are primarily nocturnal, however when undisturbed and protected they may be seen moving during daylight hours and are often seen lying up in trees. They usually hoist their kills up into trees to keep out of the reach of other predators and scavengers.
• Family Bovidae
• Mass 750 kg / 1653 lbs
• Height ± 160 cm / 63 inches
• Charging speed 55 km/h / 34 mph
• Potential longevity 20 - 25 years
• Gestation period 11 months
• Record span of horns 147 cm / 58 inches
Buffalo are large, cattle like animals. Once widely distributed in Southern Africa, the buffalo's numbers have been greatly reduced by large-scale hunting and sickness such as Rinderpest and foot and mouth disease. Now restricted to the eastern regions of South Africa, they are abundant in the Kruger Park and are frequently seen wallowing in muddy pools or grazing in the vicinity of dams in the reserve.
The buffalo is highly gregarious and usually occurs in large herds, with the largest herd estimated to be in the region of 400. Bachelor groups and single animals are also often encountered. A dominance hierarchy occurs within buffalo herds. Although a favourite prey item of the lions, the large horns and powerful muscles of the buffalo make it a formidable adversary and it is frequently the lions who come off second best in such encounters.
The Kruger National Park is part of the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere, an area designated by the United Nations Education and Scientific Organisation (UNESCO) as an International Man and Biosphere Reserve (the "Biosphere").
Flora and fauna
The Kruger Park is divided into 6 eco-systems: Baobab sandveld, Mopane scrub, Lebombo knobthorn-marula bushveld, mixed acacia thicket, Combretum-silver clusterleaf woodland on granite and riverine forest. Altogether it has 1,982 species of plants. Expert guides will show you fascinating things that you have probably never even stopped to think about before - by the end, you might well be finding the habits of the dung beetle as fascinating as the roar of a lion.
Out of the 517 species of birds found at Kruger, 253 are residents, 117 non-breeding migrants, and 147 nomads. There are also 120 species of reptile, including about 5,000 Nile Crocodiles, 52 species of fish, and 35 species of amphibians.
And of course the main attraction for visitors is often the 'Big 5' which are all found in the Kruger National Park. The park protects over 147 species of mammals including 9,000 Giraffes, 200 African Hunting Dogs, 200 Cheetahs, 3,000 Hippopotamus, over 170,000 Impalas, 1,000 Leopards and 2,000 Lions.
What Will We See?
So what is there to see on Safari? You've probably heard of the Big 5, but that's only scratching the surface. But what about the Little 5? Find out more about the Big 5 and some of the other magic that awaits here...
Kruger National Park Facts & Information
We pride ourselves on our expert knowledge and have compiled a selection of what we consider the most useful and interesting safari information. From a brief history of the Kruger to some tips about what to pack, when to visit and how much to tip your guide.
What Should I Pack?
The secret to successful safari packing is "less is more". Pack light and you'll save yourself many headaches. You really do not need to go mad buying camouflaged kit and pith helmets! Just take comfortable clothes and avoid bright colours.
History of the Kruger Park
Founded by Paul Kruger in 1898. In 2002 it became part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park that links Kruger with the Gonarezhou National Park in Zimbabwe to the north, and with the Limpopo National Park in Mozambique to the east.
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Home > Low Fat Recipes II > Florida Orange Melts
Florida Orange Melts
Low Fat Recipe
Delicious Florida orange melts are cookies with a tangy, very orange flavor! This recipe uses orange liqueur but you can substitute more orange juice concentrate if preferred, or a bit of orange extract.
1-2/3 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
2/3 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon grated orange peel
3 tablespoons orange juice, frozen concentrate -- do not dilute
2 tablespoons orange liqueur
2 teaspoons light corn syrup
To cut some extra calories out of this recipe, you could use low calorie powdered sugar in place of the regular.
Recipe Directions
In a food processor, process the vanilla wafers until finely ground. Add the powdered sugar and orange peel and process until evenly incorporated. With the motor running, add the orange juice concentrate, orange liqueur, and corn syrup through the feed tube and process just until well blended. If the mixture seems too soft to handle, let it stand for a few minutes until firm; if it seems dry and crumbly, sprinkle in a little water and process briefly to incorporate.
Shape portions of the mixture into scant 1-inch balls with lightly greased hands. Let the cookies mellow in an airtight container at least 4 hours and preferably overnight before serving.
Store Orange Melts in an airtight container for up to 4 days, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 1 month.
Recipe Note
If you are adverse to using alcohol products, substitute more orange juice concentrate for the liqueur.
Nutrition Information
Yield: 24 cookies
Serving size: 1 cookie
Calories: 91; Fat: 2g; Protein: 1g; Carbohdyrate: 9g; Fiber: 1g; Cholesterol: 1mg; Sodium: 18mg
Exchanges: 1 Fruit, 1 Fat, 1/2 Other Carbohydrates


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Global Youth Mission Services
Lenten Webinars
Lent is here! It is a wonderful time to engage in creative ways to "give up" or "make time for __________." (Fill in the blank!)
We wish to offer you the opportunity to "give some time for" ways of connecting with us and with each other through a series of webinars.
We are offering three such Webinars during Lent.
March 12th on the topic of Youth and Catholic/Muslim Dialogue. The moderator will be Fr. Carl Chudy, SX
March 26th will offer input to enhance both the preparation and follow up for Mission Service Trips that many parish youth programs offer. Fr. Rocco Puopolo will moderate that webinar.
April 9th (TBA) We are inviting you to suggest a topic which you would want us to facilitate that could aid you in better understanding Mission, Intercultural, and Inter-religious dialogue.
These are meant to offer youth, youth ministers and anyone interested in youth ministry some practical and time-tested way of engaging in Interreligious Dialogue and Youth Service Projects and more!!! If you would like to take part in these webinars, email Fr. Rocco Puopolo to receive more information (email@example.com) as well as indicate the topic you would like us to present for that third webinar.
Fr. Rocco keynotes at Pax Christi National Gathering
Fr. Rocco Puopolo SX gave the Sunday keynote speech at this year's annual National Gathering of Pax Christi USA in Linthicum Maryland, August 12-14, 2016. Here is the transcript pf his talk. August 14th talk final (1)
National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC)
The NCYC offered a unique experience to ever 23,000 teens from all over the USA came to share, live and celebrate their faith in Indianapolis. It was a moment of grace and hope, a moment of fraternity and acceptance, a moment when we were able to cherish our being Children of God without looking to the racial, economic, & cultural differences. See the slideshow of Fr. Alex's pics here.
Models of Service: 5 part Video Presentation of Fr. Rocco Puopolo
Fr. Rocco Puopolo, Xaverian Missionary and Director of our Global Young Adult Mission Office. As we continue to celebrate the Year of Consecrated Life, we look to how religious in the Church today answer some of the deepest human needs and longings through their purpose and mission. Listen to these short videos and if so moved, reflect on how you can be a part of this audacious project called the global mission of the Church.
Part II: Bring on the Troubles – Part III: Beyond Borders – Part IV: Part of the Global Village – Part V: Lens of an Architect
The Objectives of the GYM:
We wish to help the young adults and youth recognize the fact that they are not just members of our Church but that they themselves are the Church. Youth and young adults overseas are much more engaged and take responsibility in all aspects of church.
We assist youth and young adults in coming to the realization that the Church is not only local but global and that they are an important part of both, generating genuine links of solidarity across cultural and faith boundaries.
And lastly we hope to help youth and young adults reach out and draw in youth of the diaspora who are their classmates, team mates in sports, brothers and sisters in the faith, to an active and involving sense of community. The GYM will empower our young Catholic members to a peer ministry of welcome and incorporation of these recently arrived immigrants who are such a gift to our Church.
"The GYM" Global Youth Mission Team
Fr. Rocco Puopolo, SX
101 Summer Street
Holliston, Massachusetts 01746
Phone: 508-429-2144
Fr. Alex Rodriquez, SX
4500 Xavier Drive
Franklin, Wisconsin 53132
Phone: 414-421-0831


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Disclaimer: I do not own any characters from Band of Brothers nor do I own anything from that series. I have merely borrowed characters and the general setting for the story.
P/L: Perconte and Luz get into a fight that only can be conquered through a disaster Mother Nature sends out.
Band of Brothers 10.26.03
Currahee Means HELP!
I. Intro
How could things have gotten this bad? Why did I allow myself to hate the only friend I have had for the past three years. All this anger has lead to one thing; something so terrible my mind cannot even come to terms with what has happened. But I must live with the choices I made.
And what did I do? Well, I was mad at my friend. This is what it all boils down to. There's little left to say now because all is lost. Nevermore; my friend lies dying next to me and there is nothing I can do to save him. And it is all my fault. It is all my fault.
II. Too Short Perconte
13 Hours Prior . . .
French woods along the Croix River
Spring of 1945
"You're too short," Second Lieutenant Rider told Perconte. The lieutenant gave Perconte a dissatisfied sniff, pushing past him.
A short silence prevailed as Perconte slowly turned to give the lieutenant a distasteful eye. Perconte sniffed under his breath, shifting his rifle across his shoulder, "That aint never stopped them before."
From there, Perconte made his way over to Sergeant Martin. Perconte had a good feeling that the sergeant wouldn't deny him of being able to take part in the patrol. After all, Sergeant Martin and he were good friends and both had a mutual understanding that they were each an important asset to the unit and mission.
Stopping just in front of the sergeant, Perconte greeted in a friendly manner, "Hey Martin, what say you let me join this little patrol today?"
"No," Martin was quick to answer.
Stunned, Perconte fell silent for a moment. Then he inquired slowly, "But why?"
Giving him a stern frown, Martin replied quickly, "You're tired, you haven't slept much, and you're too short."
"What?" Perconte scoffed. "Too short? Since when did height ever matter?"
"Just this one mission," Martin replied, patting him on the shoulder in a friendly manner, "You just can't come along."
Perconte couldn't believe what he was hearing. What could be so special about this mission that my height would be in question? "What are you going to be going on some mission where you need tall people to hit these tall Germans?"
Martin just stared at him.
"Please," Perconte begged. "You're the leader of this patrol. You gotta let me come! You know how valuable I am to this unit!"
"I know that," Martin nodded. He moved from Perconte, trying to hurry away from him as he muttered, "But I just can't let you come on this mission."
"I wish I knew why!" Perconte shouted after him. There is something deeper here than just my height. What makes them suddenly question my ability to produce well on a patrol? Have I done something so terribly wrong that they would do this to me? Surely I cannot be so valuable that they cannot risk losing me!
A zephyr blew by, easing not the hurt Perconte felt at being denied for taking part in the patrol. Perconte kicked up some snow as he turned away from Martin and wandered back to his foxhole, "But I know somebody who can tell me what's going on!"
III. Not So Good of a Friend
"Hey Luz!" Perconte called out to his friend as he jumped into the foxhole next to him.
"Hey Perconte!" Luz returned with a jovial smile.
"I've got a question for you," Perconte began.
"So have I."
"You go first," Perconte nodded.
Luz gave a small laugh, "Well, that is my question, what's on your mind?"
"Rat," Perconte chuckled shaking his head.
"No, seriously though, what's your question?" Luz inquired, trying to mask his playfulness with a grin of seriousness.
"Do you know anything about the patrol today?"
"Um, sort of," Luz replied, giving a forced smile.
"Sort of?" Perconte questioned. "Well, what do you know?"
"We have to go through the flooding creek," Luz related, giving a slow nod. "Something about scouting the eastern side of the Croix. There are some rumors spreading about Germans being over there or something of that sort. That's why we're going over there."
Silence fell over the two as Luz began checking his equipment.
Perconte studied his friend's actions closely. Something's up. And I have a feeling that I'm not going to like it. "You're going on the patrol aren't you?"
"Yeah," came Luz's quick and dry response.
Staring at his friend with concealed hurt, Perconte began slowly, "And you knew that they weren't letting me come along, didn't you?" There was a long, deep sigh from Luz. Perconte gave a slight scowl, "And you didn't even warn me."
"Hey, for what it's worth," Luz said, turning to his friend and giving him a frown of sympathy and sincerity, "I'm sorry."
"Yeah well," Perconte shook his head. "I had to find out from that jarhead of a lieutenant."
"Lieutenant Rider is a good man," Luz defended quietly.
"Yeah well you didn't hear his tone," Perconte insisted.
"He's still your superior."
"My superior?" Perconte laughed. What was he thinking? "I thought he was our superior Luz!"
"You still heard it through the Chain of Command," Luz responded lowly.
"I would have preferred to have heard it from you," Perconte responded in a hurt voice, shifting his angry glare from the dirt to Luz.
"Well I didn't know how to break it to you."
"You didn't even stand up for me! You didn't even fight my case!"
"You don't understand Perconte," Luz told him, setting down his ruck sack. "You just aren't capable of handling this patrol."
Perconte gave a scoff of disbelief. "Oh c'mon Luz you know me better than that! What can't I handle should be the determining factor here! Not whether or not I can handle what's being put in front of me."
"It's just too risky for someone of your height," Luz finished.
"What's wrong with my height?"
"Nothing," Luz smiled. "It's just that what we're facing today is extremely dangerous for short people."
"That's a load of nonsense Luz and you know it!" Perconte exclaimed. "I think it's just because you don't want me there! You'd rather have some replacement tailing your ass because he's had more sleep!"
"That's not it Perconte."
"A true friend would know to stick up for his buddies! A true friend would not leave the other one hanging! A real friend would know to help his buddy when he is in need of encouragement and support."
Perconte gave Luz a hard glare. Luz just stared at Perconte.
"I guess you're not as good of a friend as I thought you were," Perconte hissed, jumping to his feet.
"I guess not," Luz replied dryly. He did not like Perconte's tone. Maybe he had been right in asking Lieutenant Rider to not let Perconte join the mission so that he could get some much needed rest. If this was the result of sleep depravity, Luz was afraid to see Perconte mad.
Perconte crawled out of the foxhole and glared at Luz, remarking, "Never share a foxhole with someone braver than you."
"Sound words," Luz retorted smugly, giving Perconte a slight glare.
"Just do me a favor and never speak to me again you two-bit, back-stabbing liar," Perconte hissed.
"Consider it done!"
"Fine!" Perconte shouted. "Who needs you anyways!"
"Well I'm glad we both feel the same way about each other now," Luz replied smartly, giving a dark scowl at Perconte.
"Just, leave me alone!" Perconte exclaimed as he stormed away from Luz.
Luz watched Perconte disappear. He hoped that he would not have to see his former friend again.
Still curious about the opening scene? Just hold on and I'll get to that! You can see where this is all heading can't you?
IV. Le Croix
10 Hours Later . . .
For the next couple hours I tried to keep to myself. I found everything that I could possibly do to keep from thinking about the patrol; although, there wasn't much that I could do to keep from hearing about it. Most of all was the occasional visit from Luz. Those I hated most because each time he came to try and reason with me, I turned away from him or simply just pretended that he wasn't there.
Okay, so I admit that what I was doing wasn't nice. But neither was what he had done to me. Seriously, I thought he was my friend! Instead of helping me to take part on the patrol he just abandoned me! And to add on was the fact that he called me "short". What is with that anyways? I am NOT short! What could possibly be so important about this patrol that height was considered?
"Perconte! Perconte!" a voice shouted, distracting Perconte's thoughts.
"What?" Perconte asked in an annoyed voice.
It was Robinson, a new replacement. The kid was barely above the age of eighteen.
"There's been some trouble on the patrol!" the kid exclaimed, panting heavily.
"What?" Perconte gasped, surprised at the news.
Taking a deep breath of air, Robinson began again, "There's been some trouble on the patrol!"
"Yeah, yeah, yeah," Perconte waved his hand at Robinson in an annoyed manner, "I heard you the first time."
Robinson stared confusedly at Perconte, unsure of whether or not to ask why he had asked for a repeat.
"Are you going to tell me or am I going to have to guess?" Perconte demanded sternly.
"Well, we were crossing the river, you know," Robinson began relating the tale to Perconte. "And the river was really deep and scary."
"How deep?"
"Well," Robinson nodded, "When we got there it was about two feet deep."
"That's not that deep," Perconte frowned. "How am I too short for that?"
"Too short?" Robinson questioned. "Luz told me that you weren't too short for the patrol; he said that you just needed your rest and he had to make up something in order for you to not participate in the patrol."
"You mean he lied to protect me?" Perconte questioned, surprised at what he had just heard.
The private nodded, "Yes he did; from what he told me."
"So what happened next?"
"Well," Robinson continued, "By the time we actually got to crossing the river it had risen a foot. And when Luz got trapped against the wire fence, the water was about four feet. Who knows what it's at now."
"Four feet," Perconte nodded. Then part of the phrase sunk into him and he stopped cold; his heart suddenly pounding at the thought. He quickly demanded, "What did you just say about Luz?"
"He's trapped," Robinson told him simply. "We can't get to him because we are one man too short!"
Perconte gave Robinson and indignant sniff.
Robinson quickly apologized, "Pardon the pun."
"I'm going," Perconte stated as a matter-of-fact.
"But you shouldn't because you need your rest."
"Look," Perconte hissed, grabbing Robinson by the collar of his jacket, "My friend is out there and he's in trouble."
"I thought you guys weren't friends," Robinson responded. "Now I'm confused!"
"Are you going to take me there or not?" Perconte demanded, releasing the private.
Perconte's eyes watched the roaring river. Debris of leaves, branches, and even small trees were apparent. The water was a tawny color from all the mud that the flooding had swept away. It was a treacherous situation. And when Perconte saw the situation Luz was in, his heart skipped a beat and a cry of distress almost slipped past his lips.
To his horror, Perconte saw that Luz was pinned against the chicken wire fence and was being pushed backwards into the horrible current by the force of the swift moving river. If the chicken wire fence gave way, Luz would be swept down the river and wind up in more danger than he was already. At the moment though, Perconte couldn't think of anything worse than Luz's current position.
"What happened?" Perconte demanded, stepping next to Sergeant Martin.
"Glad you could make it," Martin nodded. "I hope there was no offense by my comment that you were too short. Seriously though, the way this river has picked up, I was beginning to wonder if we had done the right thing by having you stay back at camp."
"What happened?" Perconte insisted, stepping next to the river. He saw Luz's look of exhaustion and despair. He shouted through the roaring river, "Hang on buddy! Don't lose hope!"
Luz looked in Perconte's direction. His look of bewilderment turned to a small smile as he recognized his friend standing on the bank. The presence of his friend seemingly forgetful of their fight, made Luz feel stronger. A new will had replaced Luz's hopelessness feeling and now Luz was prepared to fight with all his strength to get back to shore.
Martin continued, grabbing Perconte's coat and pulling him away from the water, "That's what happened you fool."
"He was our point and while trying to cross the river (then only two feet deep), the current pushed his feet out from under him and took him down river to where we are at now. We've tried throwing rope out to him and pulling him back but it was no use. We also tried wading out there to him but the current was so strong we risked being trapped as well. So now it comes to this…team rescue."
Martin continued, "All of us are going to walk out there together, be a bigger block for the water. We're going to grab Luz and get him out of there. The water is about four feet or so now. I don't know how much longer Luz will be able to take the coldness or the water height."
"We've got to save him," Perconte stated urgently, staring fearfully at his friend trapped out in the river.
"We will Perconte," Martin nodded, patting Perconte on the shoulder, "We will."
A couple minutes later after regrouping, Martin, Malarkey, Robinson, Perconte, and two other soldiers stepped lightly into the river.
The current was strong at fifteen miles per hour. All the soldiers kept their toes pointed upriver to keep from having their feet pushed out from under them. Now Perconte realized the seriousness of the situation and how something that seemed so silly, could be so deadly.
Just then there came a loud bang.
Perconte stumbled. He felt a strange burning sensation on the left side of his head. A warm liquid was trickling down his face. Still, it didn't bother Perconte as he stumbled forward, bent on rescuing his distressed friend.
"My God!"
Perconte heard Martin exclaim. For a second, Perconte blacked out. Seconds later Perconte opened his eyes. He looked around him. He was halfway between reaching Luz and the shore. Martin and the others had scrambled on shore, fearful of the sniper shot. Perconte figured that they had already shot the sniper by now.
Looking back out at the water, Perconte saw something that made his blood run cold. A fallen tree, two feet in width was rushing down the flowing river and in a matter of seconds, Perconte knew, Luz would be in more danger than before. Perconte wondered why he had not seen the tree earlier. Then he shook his head, knowing what must be done.
Perconte staggered forward, hoping to reach his friend before the tree did. But alas, the tree struck first and slammed into Luz's chest, crushing him against the wire fence. Luz gave a cry of pain.
An amazing fence that one is Perconte thought as he continued forward. He reached the log and tried pulling it away from his friend but the tree wouldn't budge. Perconte saw Luz hanging limply on the log, his head on his shoulders and his eyes closed.
Reaching out, Perconte grabbed his friend's shoulder and shook him, telling him urgently, "Hey buddy, stay awake!"
At that, Luz awakened. He lifted his head slightly and gazed wearily at his friend. He coughed, "Perconte?"
"Hang on buddy!" Perconte exclaimed, grabbing his hand.
Luz, coughing again, informed Perconte, "This tree has pinned me against the post here."
No wonder the fence hasn't gone yet.
The fence lurched, shoving the tree forward and driving Luz into the water.
Thinking quickly, Perconte tried pushing the fence over with his feet. He could feel the water's suction trying to pull him underneath the log. And then it happened.
The fence gave way, expelling its burden.
For a second Perconte lost his grip on Luz. His friend disappeared beneath the log as it rolled over the fence and began its travel down the river. After a brief heart pounding second Luz resurfaced. Quickly, Perconte grabbed onto his friend's coat collar and pulled him near.
By now the swift current had swept them down river three hundred or so feet. The water was frigid and wild. White caps broke over every boulder and tree that lay scattered across the river. Above in the sky, a fearful storm was brewing. Lightning skittered across the sky and a harsh wind blew. But this was not felt by Perconte nor Luz, who only knew of the terrifying ride that nature giving them.
Perconte held Luz close to his side, fighting against the current to keep both of them alive. The water was powerful, too powerful. All of Perconte's attempts to swim to shore were met with little victory and his efforts only wore the soldier out even more. Finally, Perconte relented to the power of nature and decided to just let nature run her course and hope for a better opportunity later.
The water quickened. There came a roar. Perconte was unaccustomed to the sound but he recognized it immediately.
"Waterfalls," Perconte gasped in despair.
Sure enough, ahead was a twelve foot high water fall. The muddy water careened over the lip and plummeted to a deep pool below; the only relief in the river. This was Mother Nature's way of giving the two soldiers a break from the river's torment.
Perconte clutched Luz, telling him, "Stay with me buddy. Stay with me. We'll get through this, you'll see!"
They neared the brink and then took the plunge.
V. So long old friend
Perconte grabbed the piece of driftwood and pulled with all his might. With a couple of pulls, Perconte felt sand beneath his boots. In another few short pulls, Perconte was on shore. He gently pulled his shivering friend on shore next to him. For a couple of moments, Perconte lay, clutching the tall grass, as he gasped for air. Fighting the river had been exhausting.
Next to him, Luz gave a moan of agony.
Perconte resumed his efforts and soon enough, both were completely out of the water. From there, Perconte immediately began assessing the injuries that had been inflicted on Luz, completely ignoring his own injuries.
A small cough escaped Luz's lips. Blood trickled out of the corner of his lips.
Perconte knew that that meant only one thing, internal damage. There was nothing Perconte could do. For all he knew, they had been swept many miles south of Easy Company and could be in German territory. Expecting help was not a feasible notion to think about.
The plummet over the water falls had taken its toll on both of the soldiers. Both were exhausted, cold, and sore. The internal injuries that had fallen on Luz were so severe, if help didn't arrive soon, Perconte knew his friend's life would be in peril.
Luz weakly lifted his hand and gripped Perconte's hand. Giving his friend a weak smile, Luz closed his eyes and gave a long, deep sigh.
"So long old friend
We'll meet again somewhere.
Though that this is the end,
Wherever you go I will be there."
Perconte gave Luz a gentle shake, hoping to keep his friend awake. The gentle action had no affect. Again Perconte tried to wake Luz, shaking him even more so. Still, the soldier lay unmoving. Perconte stared helplessly at his friend. There was little he could do except pray.
"I wish that I hadn't been mean to you.
I regret that we couldn't have seen better days.
I want you to know that there isn't anything that I wouldn't do.
To keep to you safe so we can share in our funny ways."
"Luz?" Perconte called out softly, shaking his friend. Still nothing.
"Farewell old friend.
Somewhere in time we'll meet again.
Say it cannot be so,
That you really have to go.
You were always there when I was down.
Never a time would you let me frown.
Please dear friend think not bad of me.
You were always the best friend you could be."
Lowering his head and closing his eyes, Perconte tried to accept the reality of the situation. His best friend had perished before him without any last words or even a goodbye. The memory of their friendship stung like poison and Perconte knew, nothing in his life would ever be the same again. Luz had passed away; he had slipped silently into the fading daylight and had found a new home in heaven.
"So long old friend.
We'll meet again somewhere.
Though that this is the end,
Wherever you go I will be there."
So this is where you walked in. You can see what can happen when you allow yourself to stay mad at a person, especially your best friend, for a period of time, even if it is really short. Things change; time is unpredictable. Don't let grudges hold you back from a life time of fun. You never know when all of your play could be taken away at the drop of a hat and your whole world turned upside down. Be genuine to your friends, even if you just have one friend. And if you get into a quarrel, don't stay mad for long. Don't do what I did; you'll pay the ultimate price for pride.
Perconte gazed sadly at his friend. A sharp pain was throbbing from within Perconte's throat as he thought about the quarrel that they had had. It was such a silly thing to be mad about. Perconte touched the Screaming Eagle emblem on Luz's shoulder. All he wanted to do was protect me from sickness. A tear slipped down Perconte's cheek. Luz, I am so sorry!
In frustration, Perconte looked to the heavens and screamed, "No!"
He heard voices urgently calling his name.
"Perconte…! Perconte…! Perconte…!"
He awoke.
"Thank God you're alive!" a voice breathed in relief.
Perconte tried opening his right eye but felt it painful to do so. He gave a short cry of discomfort as he realized that the bullet that had grazed him earlier was still very fresh and tender. Perconte tried to sit up. All around him seemed chaos. All he heard was voices, strange voices; almost dreamlike.
A hand gently pushed Perconte back against the ground.
Next to Perconte, to his right, was Doc Roe, the Easy Company medic.
Doc Roe smiled at Perconte, "You were out for a long time Perconte. Nine hours almost."
"I knew you'd survive."
Perconte turned his head to the left, trying to see the other person next to him. Perconte let out a gasp, "Luz?"
"Yeah, it's me old buddy," Luz smiled softly.
"How can this be?" Perconte questioned, completely astonished at seeing his friend sitting next to him. "I thought you were…" Perconte shook his head, thinking better of it.
Perconte gave Luz an apologetic frown, saying, "Listen, I didn't mean what I said back there, that you weren't a good friend and that I didn't want you to talk to me anymore. For what it's worth, I'm sorry." Perconte offered his hand to Luz, "Friends?"
Luz stared at Perconte for a second, as if debating what his friend had said. Then a knowing grin spread across Luz's face as he accepted Perconte's hand, replying, "Never stopped being friends Perconte." He laughed, "They say that you're not really good friends until you've had at least one good fight."
Now it was Perconte's turn to laugh.
"You had us worried back there," Luz smiled. "You took that bullet but you still came. And it wasn't until after we were all on shore that you collapsed and passed out."
"Really?" Perconte asked, surprised. "I don't even remember that. All I remember is getting winged and trying to get you out of the water."
"You were so still," Luz recalled quietly. "I thought maybe the bullet hadn't just grazed you and actually had struck you. I was scared because I thought that I had lost you."
Perconte gave a sigh. He told him, "I know why you didn't want me to go on the patrol. It wasn't because of my height; that was never really an issue to begin with. You were just trying to keep me off the patrol so that I could get some rest."
Luz gave a slow nod. He asked, "So did you get any rest?"
"Not while you were out on patrol," Perconte replied. He laughed, "I was so worried about you I didn't have time to take a nap."
"You can't get rid of me now can you?" Luz smiled.
"Nope," Perconte laughed. "Friends?"
"Forever and forever," Luz smiled.


text:
Reach Incorporated
Reach Incorporated develops confident, grade-level readers and capable leaders by training teens to teach younger students, creating academic benefit for all involved. By trusting teens with real responsibility for real outcomes, Reach's unique programs build foundational skills in an engaging and empowering way.
As elementary school reading tutors, the teens of Reach noticed that few children's books reflected their reality. They decided to do something about that: they wrote their own. Now these teens are diversifying children's literature, one smart-fun-real-brave-bold story at a time.
Winners of the National Book Foundation's Innovations in Reading Prize.
The Project That Launched Shout Mouse Press
In the summer of 2013 the teens of Reach Incorporated defined an important mission: to create stories the students they tutored could relate to. They knew that there is a troubling shortage of characters and authors of color in the children's book market, and they set out to change that, as well as to produce stories that would foster a love of reading.
Within fifteen hours of intensive workshops with SMP founder Kathy Crutcher, fifteen Reach teens brainstormed, drafted, workshopped, and revised. They worked with talented emerging artists Mira Ko and Lucia Liu to design illustrations for their stories. Ultimately, their hard work paid off, and they produced four emotionally resonant and totally engaging original children's books.
As is true with all authors, these teens weren't finished when the books were published. They had to promote! So they gave public readings and book signings throughout DC, they garnered media attention, and through a successful fundraising campaign by Reach, they donated 1,000 of their books to children who needed them most.
These first books were the inspiration for Shout Mouse Press. These teens showed us the power and potential of supporting unexpected authors, and of providing platforms for leadership through publication. We are grateful to Reach for giving us this great start, and we're thrilled to continue our work with these talented teens as they add to the exciting and inspiring series, Books by TEENS.
Next series launch: November 2016!
Check out all 17 current Reach titles:
Buy Books in Sets
Reader Responses
This is a thoughtful, illustrated book about children who can see the good in others and help them change. Max starts the story by saying "Being bad never felt so good. Evil runs in my family." His counterpart Ronnie believes "Goodness is in all of us. My family stands for justice." After wonderfully illustrated interactions between the two, Max is able to see the goodness in himself.
"We read One Lonely Camel today, and the kids really loved it. They gasped with shock (Larry's story really touched them), they giggled (at Tunechi's antics), and they roared their approval (the popular culture references). In short, it was a huge hit! When I asked who would give it 4 stars (our highest rating) all 20 hands shot up. I asked them why they liked it so much, and Akera said it best: "Those big kids wrote about things that all kids like, whether they're big or little."...Kam appreciated how the animals hid their sadness and seemed happy on the outside but were sad sometimes on the inside. Many of the kids thought that aspect of the book was really touching."
After reading this book to my 20-month-old daughter last night, she looked at me and said "read it again!" An excellent pictorial representation of DC from A to Z, educational, fun, and kid approved. Great work Reach tutors/authors!
--Scott, amazon reviewer
I've read many A to Z picture books in my days, but what makes this one special is not only its photographs of D.C. landmarks, but also the creativity of the photographs. My favorite is "F" is for Frederick Douglas. Not only do the pages show pictures of the Frederick Douglas Historic Site, but a photo of what I presume is one of the book's authors "shaking hands" with the statue of Frederick Douglas. It's these sorts of shots that delight children and adults alike. The book's illustrations and verses also call out for the reader to discover D.C. destinations that have yet to be explored and to start planning on re-visiting more familiar ones. On some of the pages I can almost taste the food, hear the sounds of traffic, and smell the scents of animals and plants. The fact that this book was created by D.C. teens is just icing on the cake.
--Bookfan, amazon reviewer
Combining reality with fantasy (loved the purple broccoli trees!), this book takes on a tough real-life situation that many children find themselves in --- upset by parents arguing. It acknowledges a child's feelings while encouraging a child to talk to parents about those feelings. The story also acknowledges that many adults find themselves under stress, such as unemployment, which can contribute to parental figures having arguments over simple things. Most importantly though, the book offers hope that a child may have the power to enact change in the family dynamic. Written by 3 high-school age teens, I got the sense that at least one of the authors has witnessed the positive impact he/she has had in their own family relationships when he/she encouraged the family to do more things together as a family group.
--Bookfan, amazon reviewer
This is an inspiring story, especially for any child who is coping with an illness. This book should be in the children's ward of every hospital. A great read!!
--Gwendolyn Harris, amazon reviewer
This book was an awesome read, from front to back!!!! My kids absolutely loved it, and have read it several times since I purchased it. This is definitely a must have for all ages.
--Vikki Sheppard, amazon reviewer
When Ernie the Llama was abducted by green, slimy aliens, his best friend, Sal the frog, set out on a "ribbiting" journey to rescue his companion. Risking his life, Sal wouldn't rest until he got Ernie home to his frightened family.
This story teaches children about friendship, one of the most important things in their lives. In this book, they will discover how true friends will always be there for you in your happiest and darkest times. Kids will also learn the life lesson of how, if you want something a lot, you can get it if you try hard enough. Sal's quest around the world proves to kids that anything is possible.
The Gloomy Light is a fun and exciting thriller that all kids should have on their bookshelves. Reading this wild and crazy adventure was a pleasure. I highly recommend it to anyone who believes in true friends that will do anything for you, even through thick and thin.
--Dallas, amazon reviewer
Jordan Campbell, Rico McCard and Brandon Smith left me thinking deeply about two common struggles in middle school--identity and friendship. The voice and storyline drew me into the book and I found myself connecting to each of the characters as the story unfolded. This is an impressive first book for these authors and a book that I will have readily available for students at my school, where I am principal. I know my students will find the story enjoyable, and I expect the message of the story will remain with them. Buy this book!
--Heidi L Cook, amazon reviewer
Trio + One is a great story about a middle schooler, Bobby, who is jealous of three popular best friends at school. Bobby feels like they get all the attention and exclude him, so he decides to split up the group with a schoolwide "Coolest Kid Contest" featuring the 3 kids. They soon turn on each other, coming to Bobby for friendship. However, once they realize his scheme, they ask him why he did this to them and tell him how he was never really excluded from the group. Bobby came to know that sometimes it was he who kept away from the other boys.
This book teaches kids how it feels to be excluded and how they should prevent anyone from feeling that way. In addition, kids will learn not to jump to conclusions. I highly recommend this book for anyone. It can be understood on different levels, but it would be best for kids 7 and up. I hope you enjoy this book. Its magnificent story line, along with all of the lessons that can be learned from it, is definitely worth your time reading. Enjoy!
--Dallas, amazon reviewer
This story conveys so well the feelings of jealousy we are so capable of having when we envy other groups of friends. I was particularly struck by the authors insight when they have the main character, Big Bobby, wonder if it was the 3 friends that stopped hanging out with him or whether it was Bobby that stopped hanging out with them. Loved the illustrations as well! Looking forward to reading the other 3 books published by Reach, Inc.
--Bookfan, amazon reviewer
The Airplane Affect is an emotional book written by Marc, Sasha, Angela, and Sean, all young upcoming authors. It is an inspiring book about a young boy who is fighting leukemia in a drab hospital. He misses the outside world and just being a kid. Vincent writes his problems down on a piece of paper which he throws through the window as a paper airplane. A girl finds the plane and is inspired to help him. This book made us think about people who don't have it all and how we should be thankful that we are not stuck in a dull hospital. The book was very well written. Reach Inc. is a remarkable organization that is moving kids to write these books that inspire others. The storyline grasps both people that have experienced a severe illness and others who have not. This was an amazing book worth reading no matter what age you are.
--Dallas, amazon reviewer
One Lonely Camel is a wonderful book for all ages about a camel who thinks he doesn't quite fit in at the zoo. A camel is taken from home and arrives at the zoo. A friendly hippo overhears Larry the camel's rap about his being captured. The hippo thinks Larry's raps are cool, so the hippo talks the camel into performing a rap at the zoo's talent show. Larry is nervous that the other animals at the zoo won't relate to his raps, but in the end, the animals like it, and Larry finds out that all of the other animals at the zoo have stories to tell, too. Even the hippo has a story to tell. This book shows that friends are always there to help you out, and it is filled with both humorous and sweet moments. While reading this great book, the amazing illustrations will please your eyes.
-- Dallas, amazon reviewer
Partner Updates
This winter has been a busy one! This is what we've been up to.
They're here! Last night we were thrilled to celebrate with 14 brand new teen authors of Reach Incorporated as they launched their 2016 series of children's books. We are so proud of these teens for serving as role models and leaders for the next generation, combatting messages of fear and division with stories of hope and connection.
When I founded a nonprofit to "amplify unheard voices" a little over two years ago, I never could have imagined the election of 2016. I believed deeply in the power of self-expression, and beyond that, in the power of engaged public expression.
We are days away from the launch of the 2016 series of Reach Incorporated Books by Teens. Over the summer, fourteen teen authors worked very hard to write four beautiful and insightful stories. Since then, four talented illustrators have worked to bring those stories to life.
We're thrilled to announce that thanks to a generous grant from the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, we will be able expand and innovate the Ballou Story Project this year through a cool new partnership with Young Playwrights' Theater. We're taking these stories to the stage! Stay tuned for updates about the performance this spring.
This month, Shout Mouse went on a book tour to Granville, Ohio. We were honored to be invited by Denison University to speak on campus as part of the Women's and Gender Studies Program's Laura C. Harris Symposium.
Carson McNamara is one of the newest members of our art team here at Shout Mouse Press. Her first Shout Mouse project is to illustrate the upcoming children's book Drip, Drip: The Story of the Angry Sherbet, by Reach Incorporated teen authors Marques, Ericka, Dartavius, and Dache.
Here at Shout Mouse, we're excited to celebrate September as National Literacy Month. Literacy is not only dear to our hearts, but central to our mission. To us, literacy is not only about ability to read, but also the capacity to love stories and to value one's own voice. Find out our authors are encouraging literacy.
The truth is, there's no time when we need these teens more to be leaders for the next generation of readers. It's been a turbulent summer in the world, with events all too often highlighting the destructive powers of hate, fear, and prejudice, and these writers have been creating both within this context and against this world view. We are proud of the mature ways that these teenagers have handled discussions of bias, authority, and protest, and of the ways they have channeled these lessons into both fun and meaningful stories for young readers.
We're going to Orlando, because that's where the important work of our authors is being celebrated. Their stories of dignity and empowerment and overcoming are the messages being touted, being shouted, from the stage. These are the values that drown out all the rest. We're going to hold up their books as refutations, books that change the story--about who can make a difference, who can be a hero, who can sow love and hope and change against all odds--because changing the story is the first step in changing the heart.
Guess what we just learned? 3 Shout Mouse Press books have been named as FINALISTS for 4 awards in 2 categories in a nation-wide book contest for independent presses!
You've heard about the incredible #1000blackgirlbooks campaign, right?
If not, here's the scoop:
Marley Dias, age 11, decided she was sick of always reading about "white boys and dogs." She asked, where are the characters who look like me? Those books about strong proud funny beautiful black girls were not showing up in her school curriculum, so she decided to do something about it: she started the #1000blackgirlbooks campaign.
Yesterday was the Book Launch for Reach's 2015 books, and we couldn't be more excited for our authors. So much celebration, so much pride, and so much support for these talented and important young voices. We had the chance to catch up with new author Daijha Cain, who co-wrote A Little Girl in a Big, Big World, during the launch at the Pepco Galley. Daijha dazzled us with her imagination and motivation when we worked with her this summer, and she's already looking to the future!
On November 19, 2015, Newbery Medalist Kwame Alexander will kick off the launch of the latest series of Reach Incorporated Books by Teens. We're especially excited about this because Kwame's work with his organization Book-in-a-Day is part of the inspiration for Shout Mouse Press! We can't wait for Kwame to meet his legacy authors and to celebrate the power of their words in the world.
On Wednesday, August 12th, we had the incredible opportunity to meet leaders working with at-risk youth from all over the world and to share with them our books! Through a program called the IVLP which is run by the State Department, we met with folks from: Armenia, Australia, Bangladesh, Belize, Congo, Egypt, Haiti, Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, Pakistan, Palestine, the Philippines, Portugal, Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, and Ukraine.
"I was held back in second grade," one of the writers said. "But it wasn't my fault--the teacher was evil." The rest of the group started to become engaged as they shared stories of all of their evil teachers and their cruel tactics: pinching them, hitting them with rulers, calling their parents. They decided they wanted to write a story about an evil second grade teacher. They talked about how they had told their parents about their evil teachers but nobody believed them. These writers wanted to create a story to empower kids to make a difference for themselves.
In one night this past weekend, two young men from the communities served by Shout Mouse were shot and killed in senseless acts of violence...
I cannot help thinking of our authors when I hear this news, and of the weight of growing up in such a world where life is taken so carelessly outside your front door. I'm thinking about the psychic pain of not feeling safe at home. It sticks with me.
Guess who was spotlighted recently in a Boston Globe article called, "The Summer Reading List We Really Need"?
Our fearless, peerless partners at Reach, Inc., for not only teaching literacy skills, but for "cultivating a love of reading." We're thrilled to be coaching their teens once again to write books that both educate and entertain, and that inspire young readers to ask, "Wait, can I be an author, too?" (Our answer: Yes, please.)
We're excited to be working on our THIRD annual series of teen-authored children's books with the writers of Reach Incorporated!
We're half-way through our second week of workshops, and our authors have narrowed down their massive list of story ideas to begin writing four creative, thoughtful, and engaging books.
Woohoo! Shout Mouse books on national radio and Kojo Nnamdi's 2015 Summer Reading List!
Mark Hecker of Reach, Inc. knocked it out of the soundbooth today on The Kojo Nnamdi Show's Kids and YA Summer Reading program. He was an incredible ambassador not only for Reach's teen authors but also for the authors of Ballou Senior High School, and Beacon House.
On Tuesday, May 12, 2015, I was given an incredible opportunity: to meet President Obama and put our authors' stories in his hands.
WHAT?!! That's how I felt. Here's how it happened:
Wow! Shout of the Day definitely goes to our inspiring partner Reach, Inc.for being honored with the Innovations in Reading Prize from the National Book Foundation! We are so proud to partner with Reach, and thrilled that our collaborative book projects help make the case that they are one of the most innovative programs in the country. Hurrah!
We're not just shouting today at Shout Mouse, we're doing a little jig. Why, you ask? Because in partnership with the good folks at Reach, Inc. we just delivered nearly 1,000 Shout Mouse and Reach teen-authored books to DCPS Libraries, who want every one of our titles in every one of their schools.
Every Shout Mouse book in every public school in DC. !!!
Shout Mouse Press was thrilled to be a community partner for this year's Gaithersburg Book Festival. The Reach, Inc. teen authors who inspired the founding of SMP manned our booth, sold and signed books, gave a public reading, and met with fellow believers in the #WeNeedDiverseBooks campaign. Check out the photo gallery. We're so proud of our authors and can't wait to read their next books, coming Fall 2014!


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Heritage's Perspective
18 hrs ago
HHS Study on ACA Premiums Step in Right Direction
Last night, HHS released a study on Obamacare premiums. Heritage expert Drew Gonshorowski says the study illustrates the obvious of the Affordable Care Act—that health insurance premiums have and continue to rise drastically. "Many comparisons such as this have been done in the past and all are imperfect representations. In this case however, HHS takes a step in the right direction."
May 23
Cutting Through the Media Rhetoric
"What's missing from the headlines is the economic growth that this budget could bring about," says Heritage's Romina Boccia about the President Trump's budget proposal on CNBC's "Closing Bell."
May 23
On Tragic Manchester Terror Attack
Following tonight's tragic and cowardly terror attack in Manchester, Heritage's Robin Simcox says this continues to be a major problem for British counterterrorism and law enforcement officials. "Even though the U.K. has world class security services, this is a numbers game—and the amount of terror suspects in the U.K. is so high that it is impossible for authorities to be able to keep track of everyone that is of concern," says Simcox.
May 22
This Week in Brussels
President Trump has an opportunity to lead on important issues facing NATO. The U.S. must renew its leadership role in NATO, including reinforcing and strengthening measures decided upon at the Warsaw Summit to bolster collective defense; press allies to commit to robust defense spending and proper investment in equipment; reaffirm commitment to NATO's open-door policy in Brussels; and renew NATO's commitment to support the ongoing Resolute Support mission.
May 19
Trump's Budget Cuts
President Trump's budget is expected to call for an end to the Community Development Block Grant program. The New York Times reports that the program has helped people, but Heritage expert Robert Rector says "The program is largely a slush fund for large urban cities."
May 18
FCC to Revisit Obama-Era Internet Rules
Today's vote by the FCC is welcome news. They voted to revisit the Obama-era rules which expanded government authority into the internet. Chairman Pai's leadership has been instrumental in beginning to rein in the overreaches of the Obama administration, restoring freedom and providing greater access to the internet. Government involvement in the internet almost universally slows innovation and performance. Rolling back these regulations permanently will not be easy, but if done right, it will ensure an open and free internet for years to come.
Heritage Foundation@Heritage
Manchester attack: Why the British terror threat will not improve soon. @RobinSimcox http://fxn.ws/2qh9QPd


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Author has written 8 stories for iCarly, Sonic the Hedgehog, Harry Potter, and Danny Phantom.
Wow... lots of room... So, where do I start...
In my spare time I write, sing, play VGs, and watch tv/podcasts.
As many of you can probably tell, I don't update extremely often. More intermittently than a majority of the other writers on FanFiction.net, but I'm slowly getting back into my groove as my junior year of high school comes to an end. Also, I refuse to allow any gay-bashing to go on in any comments or stories. As a member of the gay community, it saddens me that even in the 21st century we are forced to deal with that fact that people can't just grow up and leave each other alone. And not just with gays, but with other things like race and religion. At least be tolerant. I'm not asking you all to join us, I just want you to know that we all have feelings, and they get hurt from time to time when what we know or can't control about ourselves comes to be ridiculed. It's ridiculous, honestly, that people are still facing prejudices in this day and age.
Another thing I'd like to do is help other writers on the web site. I don't update often, but I read. A lot. And I want you all to know that I will Beta almost everything you read. Unless it's just a bunch of Mary-Sue and Gary-Stu, totally changing characters without proper reason, etc. bull. It needs to have a good idea. I merely ask that you ask me to beta because I hate how the English language and things like proper grammar are totally being thrown out the window in favor of l337 speak and text-ese. It's very discouraging, and I hope that you all will consider to promote proper, well-practiced use of our language.
Long-story short, feel free to ask me to Beta.
Nintendo 3DS Friend Code: 2707-1608-7576
Wii U Profile: AZ10er94
Formerly avid role-player, but like to participate now and again. PM for Kik.


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Makerere University Walter Reed Project
Makerere University Walter Reed Project (MUWRP) is a non-profit biomedical research organization, whose mission is to mitigate disease threats through quality research, health care and disease surveillance. MUWRP was established in 2002 by a Memorandum of Agreement between The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc. (HJF) and Makerere University (Mak) to undertake medical research to test HIV vaccines. Over the years, MUWRP's portfolio has progressively expanded to include vaccine research for Ebola and Marburg viruses, surveillance of influenza and influenza-like viruses and other emerging infections in humans and animals; also epidemiological, basic and implementation research in HIV treatment, care and prevention programs in the districts of Kayunga, Mukono, Buvuma and Buikwe
Our Vision
To be a leading biomedical research organization for better health
Our Mission
To mitigate disease threats through quality research, health care and disease surveillance
Core Values
- Excellence
- Integrity
- Teamwork


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Match Report
21:55 6th May 2014
This season's action at Selhurst Park came to a close in thrilling fashion as Palace rallied to score three late goals in nine minutes to claim an unlikely point and stun title-challenging Liverpool.
If a single game could sum up the Eagles' season this would be it, as the hosts looked down and out before dragging themselves back into game and finishing with a flourish to stun the league leaders.
When Damien Delaney's long-range effort flew into the top corner to make it 3-1 it seemed to be a mere consolation, until super-sub Dwight Gayle popped up with a second a couple of minutes later – and an incredible season at Selhurst came to a crescendo when the striker popped up with another two minutes from time to complete a stunning comeback.
Joe Allen gave the Reds an early advantage and despite managing to keep the goal-hungry visitors out until half-time, strikes by Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez in the opening 10 minutes of the second seemed to have ended Eagles hopes, but the unbelievable climax all but ends the Reds' title hopes for another year.
The pattern for an entertaining evening was set just eight minutes in when a Steven Gerrard corner found Mamadou Sakho unmarked in the area but his downward header spun wide of the post, and six minutes later a raking pass by Allen found Glen Johnson in behind the Eagles defence but his header looped over Julian Speroni but also the crossbar.
But after 18 minutes the Reds did find a way past Speroni as they opened the scoring from another set-piece. Gerrard swung over another fine delivery and found Allen who steered his header goalwards, and although the Palace shot-stopper got a hand to it he couldn't prevent it nestling in the back of the net.
It was all the visitors for the majority of the first half hour and Suarez saw an audacious free-kick from 35 yards whistle past the post, but Jason Puncheon forced Simon Mignolet into his first save with a low skidder that deflected off Sakho and the Belguim keeper did well to push it away.
He was back in action a couple of minutes later when Mile Jedinak took aim from 25 yards with a piledriver which Mignolet did well to tip over, and then Puncheon watched a header fly over the top as the Eagles began to get up a head of steam.
Suarez was reported to have felt ill during the warm-up and during the opening half he didn't look like the league's top scorer as he ballooned a cut-back by Raheem Sterling high over the bar, but did try a snapshot from the byline aiming to catch Speroni out at his near post but the Argentine was equal to it.
Five minutes into the second half and he made another fine save to add to his collection this season. Sterling drifted inside and found the England striker who aimed to curl the ball into the net but the fully-stretched Speroni managed to get the slightest of fingertips onto the ball to deflect it onto the post, with Suarez blazing over the rebound.
But Sturridge did get the better of the Eagles custodian a couple of minutes later to get his goal and double the lead. A brilliant 60 yard pass by Gerrard was matched by the striker's first touch, and he drove the ball low towards goal which deflected off a Palace defender before finding the net.
And the game was over after 55 minutes when Suarez added a third. Another long pass by Sakho found the Uruguayan who played a one-two with Sterling before tucking the ball between Speroni's legs to seal the victory with a fine move.
Despite Brendan Rodgers' men eager to improve their goal difference they failed to find a fourth and within the space of four minutes they were suddenly back in the game. Firstly Delaney received the ball 25 yards out and tried his luck, and it paid off when the ball struck Johnson and flew into the top corner.
That looked like a mere consolation but when Yannick Bolasie dribbled forward on a quick counter-attack he found Dwight Gayle in the area who tucked the ball past Mignolet to send the Selhurst crowd into a frenzy.
And unbelievably he completed his brace three minutes from time when Joel Ward's long ball was neatly chested into his path by Glenn Murray and the former Peterborough United man cooly poked the ball into the net to spark wild scenes.
Liverpool nearly nicked a stoppage time winner when Gerrard's corner caused havoc and former Palace academy graduate Victor Moses was denied by Speroni, but Palace held on to secure the most unlikely of points and end the season at Selhurst on a high.
Palace: Speroni, Mariappa, Dann, Delaney, Ward, Dikgacoi (Ince 84), Jedinak, Ledley, Bolasie, Puncheon (Gayle 64), Chamakh (Murray 71). Subs not used: Hennessey, Gabbidon, Parr, O'Keefe.
Liverpool: Mignolet, Johnson, Flanagan, Skrtel, Sakho, Gerrard, Allen, Lucas, Sterling (Coutinho 78), Sturridge (Moses 86), Suarez. Subs not used: Jones, Toure, Agger, Aspas, Cissokho.
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Linsey : Black Dragon and Cobra
I've got the same clothes on that I had last night, a tight red top and black jeans, it's now the afternoon. This is early for me to get back at this sort of time.
I jump up on the bins by the side of the club and jump up to the open window easily. I don't look down at the ground below but I climb through the window and into the little dark room. My room.
I put my bag down on my bed and get changed out of my clothes then waslk into the bathroom. I turn the shower on and it soon warms up.....
With my towel wrapped firmly around my body, I open the door and walk back into my room. As I get changed into fresh clothes I can hear people moving things about downstairs, getting ready for yet another night.
A light but strong knock on my door. I tie my hair up into a high ponytail as Cobra comes in looking flustered.
"We needed you last night." Many would say her voice as tonless, but they can't hear the way I can. With the ability to change into whatever animal I choose, I can hear, see and react better than most. Even if I haven't used my powers since I've had that dream.
Run. Run. Run. That's all you ever do Linsey. You run. But now you have to look. Look around you. See where you're running. See what you're running into.
Search. Search. Search. That's what you have to do. Find the things you need and find out what really happend. Find out about the dragon.
Stay away. Stay away. Stay away. That's from everyone you know. Don't make contact. Don't say anything to anyone. Don't get close.
You. You. You. That's all there is now. Just you. Don't endanger anyone else. Leave them be. Keep them safe by staying away.
When. When. When. You get away from this island leave the others. All of them. Find the reason for the dragon. Find the reason why there was a gunshot in your parents house. Find the blood with the message. Find the trapped soul and set it free. Find the lost soul and give the ring back to the sea.....
Linsey. Leave the others once you're home. Stay away and find the lost soul. Find the ring. Find the trapped soul. Find the answers that you need.......
Don't. Don't. Don't Use your abilities. Never again. Leave them be. People will be safe if you leave them be. Find the two souls and the ring without them. Set them free.
I remeber it as clearly as if I heard it just now. This is the reason why I'm here. This is the reason why I'm always out, not that I could ever tell Cobra this, she thinks I need spare and she gives it to me. No questions asked.
"Those men were back again, looking for you I think but I sent them packing, told them you weren't here. They shouldn't bother you tonight. You are still working tonight Linsey, you need to pay your part of the rent." Cobras voice invades my thoughts, making me look her straight in her dark eyes.
"Cobra, would I ever let you down? I'll work behind the bar, just like normal." I pull a fake smile. Cobra shakes her head, a small smile appearing on her face.
I can never pull of my fake smile when it comes to her but she has been though a lot over the years, and knows she shouldn't question.
She turns to go, her hand on the door knob.
"If those guys give you any more trouble..."
"I'll bet the living hell out of 'em! Don't worry Cobra, I can handle them."
Cobra turn to face me, sadness in her eyes. Its the same sadness that was there when I got taken away from her care many moons ago.
"I know you can. Come down soon, we need your help with the newbies." Cobra shakes her head and pull a fake smile herself, all signs of sadness perfectly hiden. I smile softly, for Cobra is the one who taught me that trick.
"See ya at ten latest." I say, turning my back to her, preteding I've got things to do.
"Not a moment later. I hope you find the thing you're looking for Tiger." And with that she's gone.
'Find the thing you're looking for...?' Does she know? Yes she does, that much is clear. But how?
I shrug it off and open my bag where a small cloth is wrapped around what I found last night. I carefully put it in the box under my bed, hidden.
I get to my feet again and put in some earrings, ready for work.
I look around my room. As soon as I knocked on the door Cobra has treated me like I never left. Here is where I live and work with her.
I don't just work here because I pay some of the bills but because I'm looking out for someone. Someone who I shouldn't. Someone who I told here is where I'd be. Does he know that Black Dragon is the name of this club?
I shake my head getting rid of thoughts of what happend on that dreadful island.
I bit my lip knowing that I can't forget it but I do wish I hadn't told him where to find me. It's not right. Not fair. Not for him.
I sigh deeply, clearing my mind. I'm going to work tonight and if those guys came near me again, well, I guess I'll have to take it outside.
A real smile touches my face as an image of me in the alleyway with two frightened men fills my mind. I can see what could happen so clearly. First, they'll think they can mess with me but then I'll use my abilities. I'll transform into a tiger! Then they'll be sorry.
But no... I can't do that. I won't use my abilities. I can still beat them without though.
Fighting tactics enter my mind as I walk out of my room, locking the door, then down to the club floor, ready for work. They won't know what hit them!


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Has anyone else here found EA double-dipping their account? I bought BF3 on August 7th for $61.73 and that is when they charged my credit card. Then, on October 25th, they charged me $61.73 again. Worth checking your records for.
(Yes, a mistake, oversite, accident, screw-up, fuck-up, cock-up but not really a scam. I was, no doubt, hyperbolic in my affixing the label "scam" to this in my frustration.)


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Io non ho molto da dire,è unaa ragazza bella,attraente e dolce,io la amerei così come è
is the sweetest, most youthful beauty on the web. She has small sexy tits, a smooth ass, and a need to get naked on camera for all the men in the audience. She shows off her goodies in hot pictures and videos where she loves to play with her body. She is a tasty tease and loves costumes, panties, and so much more to arouse you.
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The perfect choice for holidays on the English Riviera, Sandpiper holiday bungalow in Paignton sits in the bustling Preston area, just a short stroll from shops, restaurants and attractions. Recently refurbished to the highest standards, the bungalow boasts a charming outdoor deck area and spacious, level garden to the rear.
Ideal for couples sharing and families, Sandpiper is perfectly placed for beaches and attractions in both Paignton and Torquay. Leafy Cockington village with its choice of gentle strolls and fine inns is also within easy walking distance.
The ground floor rooms feature an entrance through a sunny porch area, into the dining hall with a dining table and chairs. The kitchen boasts modern appliances including a microwave, washer/ dryer, fridge/ freezer and an electric oven with a gas hob and extractor. Facilities in the lounge include Freeview TV, a DVD player and double doors leading out into the garden. Free Wi-Fi service is available.
Accommodating 5 guests, the detached bungalow has two bedrooms including a double bedroom and a twin bedroom, with an additional single futon bed provided. The bathroom is fully fitted with a bath, shower, wash basin and wc.
Outdoor areas include a beautiful decking area with furniture and a large rear lawned garden. Car parking for one car is situated on the front drive.
Two pets are accepted.


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This highly decorated law enforcement veteran effectively teaches how to connect, and make a positive and powerful first impression, that will build trust and confidence upon first meeting. Learn how to have an unfair advantage and communicate by using the same techniques as FBI Hostage Negotiators, and convert meetings into relationships for business and life.
Here are just a few of the skills you will take away:
- How To Create A Point Of Impact: Build confidence, trust and rapport in under 10 seconds by using this secret sequence used by expert interrogators.
- Secrets of Body Language: Learn how to see 80% more than you do now and use it to your advantage. This could be the difference between deal and no deal.
- How To Instantly Build And Maintain Rapport: with anyone… Think about it, Matt built rapport with criminals, who knew his goal was to put them in jail for what they did. Learn the secret so you can do it too.
Matt's energy will light up the room and keep your attendees on the edge of their seat hanging on his every word. The information that Matt shares is easy to learn, can be done by anybody, and is proven to work. Matt's presentations are fun, engaging and interactive so that the attendees experience a high retention rate.
What they're saying:
"Your presentation was one of the most practical and life changing lectures of the conference. The information about the handshake built a bond between the guys at the conference that was never there before. Everyone was walking around practicing the "one up" handshake all week, which allowed them to bond in a way I never saw before at any conference. I think that is why we are such a close group. Your class was a key to the family atmosphere".
- Kathy J
To protect and serve: The oath that Matt upheld through his professional career, now works hard for you. When you hire him, you're not just hiring a speaker. He is a highly decorated law enforcement Captain (including Medal of Honor), with a disciplined mindset. He is going to protect your client and protect your best interest with unmatched integrity.
Upon a follow up call to a recent client, the Administrative Assistant answered the phone. Following Matt's introduction she said, "Oh Matt! I've heard all about your training from my boss. He has even showed us some of the things he learned from you! Hold on, I'll get him on the phone."
He brings a unique level of customization to every program as well as a pre-conference consultation and post-conference debrief, backed by a money back guarantee so you can book with confidence.Years later past students seek him out and tell him how they used tactics they learned from Matt for important business. Your clients will experience these results- and will have you to thank.
Here is a very small snapshot of the high level training and experience Matt brings with him:
Madison County Sheriff's Office, NY
March 1990 – May 2011
Captain of Criminal and Civil Divisions. Responsible for running divisions including Criminal Investigations (CID), SOU (SWAT), K9, Court Security, Transport Unit, Civil, Road Patrol, Traffic Safety, Marine Patrol, Snowmobile Patrol and Public Relations.
- Certified Police Instructor
- DCJS-NCIC Division of Criminal Justice Services- National Crime Information Center
- Advanced State Narcotic K-9 Certification
- Obtained German Narcotics Title
- National Institute of Truth Verification Certified Examiner – Voice Stress Analyst
- Certified in Scientific Content Analysis (SCAN) - Statement Analysis
- Over 3,000 hours of police training, including:
- Supervisory Training
- Conducting employee performance appraisals
- Establishing meaningful performance measures
- Criminal Investigative Analysis
- Interview and Interrogations
- Criminal Investigations
- Death Investigations
- Sex Crime Investigations
- Major Crime Investigations
- Federal Bureau of Investigation Advanced Fingerprint Training
- Col. Henry F. Williams Homicide Seminar (by invitation-only)
- Attended Delaware County Law Enforcement Academy while employed full time
- (Appointed Class Captain.)
In addition, Matt offers:
- Keynote
- Half Day
- Full Day
- Immersion 2 Day Transformation Bootcamps
- Break Out Session Training
- Private Coaching and Consulting
- AWARDS: Medal of Honor, Meritorious Service, Gallantry Star, Honorable Service, Madison County Sheriff's Award, Numerous Citations 40 Under 40 Award in recognition of business accomplishments community leadership in Central New York, Outstanding Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award from Charles Miller Post #140 American Legion, Letter of Commendation from Division of Parole, Stop DWI Award for DWI Enforcement Excellence, Dedicated Service Award from the Town of Saugerties Police for Woodstock 1994 Festival. Walter E. Cummings Award, Don Connelly Humanitarian Award


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News Category: trespassing prevention
Railway safety and education, a number one priority for CN's Cst. Richard Di Biase
This is a first for us, a guest blog from a valued member of the Operation Lifesaver community, Cst. Richard Di Biase of the CN Police Service.
Along with the City of Markham, Ontario, Cst. Di Biase spearheaded a new "See Tracks?… Read More