text:
Philodendrons are sort of like aliens. You can clone them! Here's how you can get free house plants by snipping stems off the ones you already have.
Archives for June 2009
Drawing Leafy Branches With Chalk On The Dining Room Walls
We created some interesting wall art in our dining room with plain old chalk. Here's how to seal it so it sticks around…
Fab Freebie: Straight From The Art
Artful Home has thousands of art pieces made by professional artists. And there's four of 'em to choose from this week right here. Enter through Wed, July 1st.
Eight Ways To Stay Safer & Avoid Dangerous Chemicals At Home
Meet my über intelligent little brother* Dan. Growing up I was always referred to as "the creative one" which was the family's way of saying "not the prodigy" which was my brother's territory. It wasn't that I was dumb, I routinely made the honor roll and even got accepted early admission into a prestigious university art program in NYC (graduating with only 13 others in my major). But Dan was a bit hard to compete with in the brains department. In high school he took nine AP tests and got fives on all of them (I took one and got a 4). Then he got into Cornell and graduated with the highest GPA of his
The After Party: Year Two
One Project Closer's giving you a chance to win money AND support Habitat for Humanity, just by submitting before and after photos of your home project.
Using Freecycle To "Recycle" Old House Items
Learn about our first experience with Freecycle, a community-based system of exchanging items for free. We got rid of a mattress, helped a family in need and kept trash out of a landfill. We'd call that a win-win-win.
Reader Redesign: One Rockin' Family Room
Erin and Ben's family room was completely made over from the stone fireplace to the new solid oak built-ins. Here's how it all went down… along with some awesome before and after pictures!
Leena's Design Dilemma
Leena's basement mood board makeover will be full of fun punchy colors and casual layered textiles to create a warm and inviting hangout for the whole family.
Goodie Bag Freebie Winners!
Over 2500 of you begged for sax in our Envirosax reusable shopping bag giveaway, but now it's time to tell you the names of the three randomly selected winners.
Adventures In Buying An Organic Latex Mattress
We upgraded to an organic natural latex mattress as an anniversary gift to each other. Here's how we trolled the web to find the best one and assembled it when it arrived in three different boxes!
House Crashing: Shock And Eww Part II
Since Sherry gave you a sneak peek at her past design sense, it's only fitting you get a look into John's old college dorms. Brace yourselves people.
The Lay Of The Land
We're giving you the scoop on how our home's exterior really works. We even made a diagram- fancy!
Tracey's Design Dilemma
Tracey's bedroom is primed and ready for a major makeover so we whipped up a mood board full of tan on cream patterns and a few punches of vibrant sky blue for a stylish and serene "after" that's sure to please.
Fresh Fruit: Making Cute Decoupaged Vases & Planters
When Katie sent us home with some old botanical prints torn from a Goodwill book, we brainstormed two projects that would look right at home in our home.
Fab Freebie: Goodie Bags
We already told you we love Envirosax. You told us you love 'em right back. So now they're doing a giveaway for TYH readers. Enter here through Wednesday, June 24th, 2009.
Layout Changes: Adding A Dining Area To Your Living Room
We added a dining area to the corner of our living room to create an open living layout that's right off the kitchen. And in closing off our dining room we gained an extra bedroom plus more cabinetry and counter space in the kitchen. It was win-win-win!
Reader Redesign: A Mouthwatering Masterpiece
This kitchen makeover will leave your jaw on the floor. Here's how Rachel transformed a dated and dingy room from the checkered floor up.
How To Paint Trim Like A Pro
We're revealing one of our favorite painting secrets: this short handled angled brush is the key to cutting in, edging, and painting trim, baseboards and crown molding in a snap.
House Crashing: Shock And Eww
We're taking a look back at my cringeworthy grade school bedroom, college dorm and first apartment to see what (if anything) reflects my current aesthetic. I've come a long way baby.
Susie's Design Dilemma
We whipped up a layered and textured mood board full of cohesive style with slate blue and warm orange accents to take Susie's living and dining room from fair to fabulous.
The Wallflowers Freebie Winners!
Three people out of 1,705 will be getting a set of Wallflowers or Wallflutters for free. But the rest of you will be getting a 15% discount on them from LaDifférence!
18 Tips For Picking The Right Curtains & How To Hang Them
We're answering a flurry of window treatment questions in one fell swoop. If you've ever had a window treatment question, chances are the answer's here!
Aussie Delights
A special delivery arrived this week from Down Under – a magazine and a jar of Vegemite. Check out the little Australian taste test we held in our kitchen last night.
Using Safety Pins To Keep A Mattress Topper In Place
Here's how we pinned our featherbed into submission for free (thanks to one smart hubby!).


text:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Discover Paris!TM?
We created Discover Paris!TM out of our love for the city and our desire to share our knowledge with travelers who want to experience Paris as an remarkable and dynamic place, rather than simply as a city that one should include when planning a sightseeing excursion of Europe.
What services does Discover Paris!TM provide?
- Gourmet walking tours and cooking classes
- Private walking tours on historical and cultural themes
- Shopping tours
- Private, chauffeured tours of Paris and its environs
- Self-guided walking tours on gastronomic and historical topics
A 1 ½-hour presentation on African-American history in 20th-century Paris entitled Black Paris and the Myth of a Colorblind France.
How much advance notice does Discover Paris!TM require?
Please contact us with your request for services at least six weeks prior to your departure date.
What about travel risks?
Discover Paris! shall not be responsible for any injuries, losses, or damages in connection with terrorist activities; social or labor unrest; mechanical or structural integrity of air, sea, and ground transportation and accommodations; diseases; local laws; terrorist acts; bankruptcy or cessation of supplier or carrier services; climatic conditions; Acts of God; delays; changes or cancellation of travel due to weather conditions, hotel services, accidents; or health-related problems before or while in-transit (e.g., an accident on the way to a tour), during, and after a tour; or any other actions, omissions, or conditions outside of Discover Paris' control.
If travel plans are delayed or cancelled for any reason, there will be no refunds issued by Discover Paris! There will be no refunds due to fear of travel from actual or threatened terrorist events.
For information concerning possible dangers at foreign destinations, consult the State Department's on-line travel-advisory service at http://travel.state.gov/travel. For medical information, consult the U.S. Center for Disease Control's (CDC) Web site at http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel.
By embarking upon travel, the traveler voluntarily assumes all risks involved in such travel, whether expected or unexpected. The traveler is hereby warned of abovementioned risks, and the possibility that he/she may be unable to travel as scheduled because of personal emergency.
What about travel/medical insurance?
We advise travelers to obtain travel/medical insurance prior to embarking on their trip.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Find out all the pertinent info at this link: http://www.wclibrary.info/erma/index.asp
Author of "From Pigtails to Chin Hairs: A Memoir & More."
"SOMETIMES ON THE WAY TO YOUR DREAM, YOU GET LOST AND FIND A BETTER ONE." - Lisa Hammond
"IT IS POSSIBLE AT ANY AGE TO DISCOVER A LIFELONG DESIRE YOU NEVER KNEW YOU HAD." - Robert Brault
"IT'S NEVER TOO LATE TO BE WHO YOU MIGHT HAVE BEEN." - George Eliot
"WE DID NOT CHANGE AS WE GREW OLDER. WE JUST BECAME MORE CLEARLY OURSELVES." - Lynn Hall
"GO CONFIDENTLY IN THE DIRECTION OF YOUR DREAMS! LIVE THE LIFE YOU HAVE IMAGED." - Henry David Thoreau
Sunday, January 3, 2010
** Erma Bombeck Writing Contest **
Find out all the pertinent info at this link: http://www.wclibrary.info/erma/index.asp
11 comments:
Will check this siteout, thank you.ReplyDelete
What a gorgeous picture of the warm home from the outside!
Hi Becky,ReplyDelete
Thanks for submission reminder, especially at the beginning of the deadline's opening date.
I've always loved Erma Bombeck's writing.
Thanks, Bookie!ReplyDelete
Thanks for your comments, Donna, and of course, you are welcome for the reminder!!ReplyDelete
Thank you for this link, Becky. I'm not sure if I will enter, but maybe. I'll check it out. :)ReplyDelete
Hey, Becky; I got HM for this a few years back, and the following year, Patsy Z. did. I haven't tried again since...but I wish everyone who goes for it the best of luck! Thanks for the reminder!ReplyDelete
Thanks, Daisy! I knew you'd be interested in this! :)ReplyDelete
Hi Dianna! Thanks for your comments. I knew about you and Patsy getting honorable mention! That is really wonderful! Wow! I hope I can even come up with something to submit!ReplyDelete
Erma certainly set the bar high. Not sure I'm able to leap over it just yet!ReplyDelete
Thanks, Pat! I agree! But, hey....you can't win if you don't try, right?!ReplyDelete
Hi, I was hoping I would make it in time, but, shoot, I missed it again. It is two years now before the next one, right?? Looking forward to looking over your blog. Just started writing myself at 50+. DonnaReplyDelete
I love comments, especially because I know the time it takes to stop and type one, even a short one! Thanks very much!


text:
" Genre: Hard Rock & Metal - Heavy Metal / Artist: Kiss / Audio CD released at UNIVERSAL "
* Prices may differ from that shown
"Love Gun" is the 6th studio album by American hard rockers, Kiss. It was released in 1977 on Casablanca Records and produced by the band with Eddie Kramer. The line-up for the album was Paul Stanley (vocals/guitar), Ace Frehley (guitar/vocals), Gene Simmons (bass/vocals) and Peter Criss (drums/vocals).
The album is noted for a couple firsts for the band and a last for the band. It is the first album to feature all four members in lead vocals, and also marks the first lead vocal performance by Ace Frehley on an album. It is also the last studio album where all four of the original members played on every track.
"Shock Me" has a relaxed yet powerful feel with biting drums, steady guitar riffs and an amazing solo from Ace Frehley. The vocals are astounding. Although the lyrics are about something else entirely, it is said the song comes from Ace nearly being electrocuted while on the "Rock and Roll Over" tour.
With Paul Stanley on lead vocals, title track "Love Gun" is a mix of hard rock and a little touch of pop. Hard pounding drum beats can be likened to machine gun fire, adding to the heavy feel of the surging guitar riffs. The melody of the song, however, has a bit of a pop feel. The two blend together to make a brilliant song that is easily recognizable from the first few notes.
Quite easily one of my favourite Kiss albums, "Love Gun" is not only great musically, but proves just how amazing the band was in the original lineup. While it has been great since with other members, the original magic can be felt on this album. I can easily recommend this one to any rock fan.
1. I Stole Your Love
2. Christine Sixteen
3. Got Love For Sale
4. Shock Me
5. Tomorrow and Tonight
6. Love Gun
7. Hooligan
8. Almost Human
9. Plaster Caster
10. Then She Kissed Me
My rating: 9/10
Of the 27 albums KISS have thrown out, this is my personal favourite. It was released in the height of their 70s fame and includes not only some of their best [and well-known] songs, it also contains brilliant album tracks or the same style.
Including the massive "Love Gun", aswell as "Christine Sixteen", "I Stole Your Love", and Ace Frehley's classic "Shock Me". But as well as these big songs, there are also some amazing album tracks such as the slightly more famous "Plaster Caster", but what sticks out to me is the relatively un-heard-of "Got Love For Sale" which certainly sounds like it was from these period but is a great song.
If you've never listened to KISS, I think this is a brilliant start, this or KISS - KISS. But what I think stands out on this album as apposed to their others, the album tracks are of the same quality. Sometimes KISS's albums can have clear singles and weaker album tracks but not this one!
Brilliant album, sold millions, can't go wrong!


text:
PNC Bank Meets Sesame Street
The partnership aims to teach children about money with their "For me, for you, for Later" project.
To the bewilderment of many, PNC Bank and its 'Grow Up Great' campaign are the new sponsor of popular children's show Sesame Street. The bailed-out bank that accepted $5 billion of taxpayer money and used some of those funds to carry out an acquisition during the recession has launched a new project designed to support children's first steps in spending, sharing and saving money.
for me, for you, for later aims to guide children and build an understanding of money, hoping these early childhood education lessons will help them grow up to make good financial decisions in life. A multimedia kit is available from PNC branches, which includes an activity book, a guide for parents, labels for money jars and a Sesame Street DVD. The Sesame Street website also has a number of activities, games and videos for children.
However, critics like David Sarota, argue that the corporate bank-driven campaign ultimately promotes materialism and consumerism that have proven insidious for children's psychological and fiscal well-being:
Certainly, kids need to learn about money, but they don't have to be taught that money is meant primarily to buy stuff …Instead, Sesame Street could, say, amplify the research-supported notion that money spent on experiences with friends and family leads to more satisfaction than money spent on blingy gadgets…Alternately, the program could spend more time promoting the idea that you don't have to spend money at all to enjoy life — and that you should actively avoid trying to keep up with the Joneses.


text:
Windstream seeks to amend its revolving credit agreement
Apr 19, 2011
Windstream seeks to amend its revolving credit agreement
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Windstream Corp. (Nasdaq: WIN) announced today that it is seeking to amend its senior secured revolving credit facility to, among other things, extend the revolving maturity date to December 2015.
• further adverse changes in economic conditions in the markets served by Windstream;
In addition to these factors, actual future performance, outcomes and results may differ materially because of more general factors including, among others, general industry and market conditions and growth rates, economic conditions, and governmental and public policy changes.
Related Assets
Other Information:


text:
Contraceptive mandate
A contraceptive mandate is a state or federal regulation or law that requires health insurers, or employers that provide their employees with health insurance, to cover some contraceptive costs in their health insurance plans. In 1978, the U.S. Congress made it clear that discrimination on the basis of pregnancy was discrimination on the basis of sex.[1] In 2000, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ruled that companies that provided insurance for prescription drugs to their employees but excluded birth control were violating the Civil Rights Act of 1964.[2] President Obama signed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) on 23 March 2010. As of 1 August 2011, female contraception was added to a list of preventive services covered by the ACA that would be provided without patient co-payment. The federal mandate applies to all new health insurance plans in all states from 1 August 2012.[3][4] Grandfathered plans do not have to comply unless they change substantially.[5] To be grandfathered, a group plan must have existed or an individual plan must have been sold before President Obama signed the law; otherwise they must comply with the new law.[6] The Guttmacher Institute noted that even before the federal mandate was implemented, twenty-eight states had their own mandates that required health insurance to cover the prescription contraceptives, but the federal mandate innovated by forbidding insurance companies from charging part of the cost to the patient.[7]
- 1 Birth control and unintended pregnancy
- 2 Contraceptives in schools
- 3 Federal female contraception mandate before ACA
- 4 ACA mandatory coverage for contraceptives
- 5 See also
- 6 References
Birth control and unintended pregnancy[edit]
In the United States, contraceptive use saves about $19 billion in direct medical costs each year.[8]
About half of U.S. pregnancies are unintended.[8] Highly effective contraceptives, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs), are underused in the United States.[9] Increasing use of highly effective contraceptives could help meet the goal set forward in Healthy People 2020 to decrease unintended pregnancy by 10% before 2020.[9] Cost to the user is one factor preventing many US women from using more effective contraceptives.[9] Making contraceptives available without a copay increases use of highly effective methods, reduces unintended pregnancies, and may be instrumental in achieving the Healthy People 2020 goal.[9]
Contraceptives in schools[edit]
Some public school districts in the United States have mandated that programs providing contraception to students be offered. Some such schools include the New London High School[10][11] in New London, Connecticut, as well as some schools in New York City.[12] The theory behind offering contraceptives in schools is that by offering barrier-free methods of obtaining contraception, students are more likely to use them.[13] These programs also aim to reduce incidence of teen pregnancy,[13] as well as reduce transmission of STDs among teenagers. In practice, studies have found that providing contraception to students fails to increase the rate of sexual activity.[13] Mandates on contraceptives in school have faced opposition from special interest groups, who fear that providing contraceptives to students will increase sexual activity.
Federal female contraception mandate before ACA[edit]
Certain aspects of the contraception mandate did not start with the ACA. In December 2000, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ruled that companies that provided prescription drugs to their employees but didn't provide birth control were in violation of Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which prevents discrimination on the basis of sex. That opinion, which the George W. Bush administration did nothing to alter or withdraw when it took office the next month, is still in effect today[when?] – and because it relies on Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, it applies to all employers with 15 or more employees.[2] Currently,[when?] employers that do not offer prescription coverage or do not offer insurance at all are exempt, because they treat men and women equally, but the new mandate will require prescription coverage.[citation needed]
After the EEOC opinion was approved in 2000, reproductive rights groups and employees who wanted birth control access sued employers that refused to comply. The next year, in Erickson v. Bartell Drug Co., a federal court[specify] agreed with the EEOC's reasoning. Reproductive rights groups and others used that decision as leverage to force other companies to settle lawsuits and agree to change their insurance plans to include birth control. Some subsequent court decisions echoed Erickson, and some went the other way, but the rule (absent a Supreme Court decision) remained, and over the following decade, the percentage of employer-based plans offering contraceptive coverage tripled to 90%.[14]
In 1978, the U.S. Congress made it clear that discrimination on the basis of pregnancy was discrimination on the basis of sex.[1] In 2000, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ruled that companies that provided insurance for prescription drugs to their employees but excluded birth control were violating the Civil Rights Act of 1964.[2] President Obama signed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) on 23 March 2010. As of 1 August 2011, contraception was added to a list of preventive services covered by the ACA that would be provided without patient co-payment. The federal mandate applies to all new health insurance plans in all states from 1 August 2012.[3][4] Grandfathered plans do not have to comply unless they change substantially.[5] To be grandfathered, a group plan must have existed or an individual plan must have been sold before President Obama signed the law; otherwise they must comply with the new law.[6] The Guttmacher Institute noted that even before the federal mandate was implemented, twenty-eight states had their own mandates that required health insurance to cover the prescription contraceptives, but the federal mandate innovated by forbidding insurance companies from charging part of the cost to the patient.[7]
ACA mandatory coverage for contraceptives[edit]
With the exception of churches and houses of worship, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act mandates female contraceptive coverage for all employers and educational institutions, even though the mandate itself is not included in the wording of the law(s)[15] passed by Congress. The mandate applies to all new health insurance plans effective August 2012. It controversially includes Christian hospitals, Christian charities, Catholic universities, and other enterprises owned or controlled by religious organizations that oppose contraception on doctrinal grounds.
On January 20, 2012, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced a (then) final rule of an August 1, 2011 interim final rule on health insurance coverage with no cost sharing for FDA-approved contraceptives and contraceptive services (including female sterilization) for women of reproductive age if prescribed by health care providers, as part of women's preventive health services guidelines adopted by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) for the Affordable Care Act. Male contraception is not eligible.[16][17][18][19]
Regulations[20] made under the act rely on the recommendations of the independent Institute of Medicine (IOM) in its July 19, 2011 report Clinical Preventive Services for Women: Closing the Gaps, which concluded that birth control is medically necessary "to ensure women's health and well-being".
The administration allowed a religious exemption. The exemption initially applied to church organizations themselves, but not to affiliated nonprofit corporations, like hospitals, that do not rely primarily on members of the faith as employees.[21] An amendment, the Blunt Amendment, was proposed that "would have allowed employers to refuse to include contraception in health care coverage if it violated their religious or moral beliefs",[22] but it was voted down 51-48 by the U.S. Senate on March 1, 2012.[23]
In May 2015 the Obama administration stated that under the ACA, at least one form of all 18 FDA-approved methods of birth control for women must be covered without cost-sharing.[24] These 18 methods include: sterilization surgery, surgical sterilization implant, implantable rod, copper intrauterine device, IUDs with progestin (a hormone), shot/injection, oral contraceptives (the pill), with estrogen and progestin, oral contraceptives with progestin only, oral contraceptives, known as extended or continuous use that delay menstruation, the patch, vaginal contraceptive ring, diaphragm, sponge, cervical cap, female condom, spermicide, emergency contraception (Plan B/morning-after pill), and emergency contraception (a different pill called Ella).[25] All forms of male birth control are exempt from mandatory coverage under the ACA and the "ObamaCare Facts" page explicitly states that "Plans aren't required to cover services related to a man's reproductive capacity, like vasectomies."[26]
Opposition to contraceptive mandate[edit]
In February 2012, a major political controversy erupted with candidates for the Republican nomination for President viewing the regulations as a "direct attack on religious liberty".[27] The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has since taken the lead in opposition to the regulations.[28] Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan, the archbishop of New York and president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, stated that the provision "represents a challenge and a compromise of our religious liberty".[29] The regulations issued under the act are also opposed by active Christian Evangelicals.[30] Other organizations, such as Planned Parenthood, supported the provision.[31]
Obama administration opt-out proposal[edit]
In response to the criticism, the Obama administration proposed changes under which birth control medication would be provided by the insurers without direct involvement by the religious organization. Regulations were issued on March 16, 2012 for employees of enterprises controlled by religious institutions which self insure. Further regulations were issued on March 16, 2012 which require coverage for students at institutions controlled by religious organizations which purchase insurance. It is believed by the federal government that it is not possible under current law to require contraceptive coverage for students at institutions controlled by religious organizations which self insure.[32][33]
Response to opt-out regulations[edit]
The Catholic Health Association (CHA) accepted this compromise. Although initially more supportive, Sister Carol Keehan, CEO of the CHA, registered opposition in a five-page letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.[34] The vice president of Catholic identity and mission at Mount St. Mary's University, Stuart Swetland, said, "It shows [Obama] and the administration are listening to our concerns", but reserved the right to "examine the details". However, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops continued to oppose the regulation, saying that the regulation still requires Catholics in the insurance industry to violate their consciences.[31] Catholic opinion is split with a The New York Times/CBS News poll showing 57% support of the regulations among Catholic voters and about the same by non-Catholics.[35][36]
In June 2013, the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals allowed a lawsuit against the mandate by arts and crafts retailer, Hobby Lobby to proceed. The Green family objected to contraceptives which they believe may prevent implantation of a fertilized egg, which according to the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons, American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians & Gynecologists, Christian Medical Association, Catholic Medical Association, National Catholic Bioethics Center, Physicians for Life, and National Association of Pro Life Nurses include the emergency contraceptives Plan B (levonorgestrel), ella (ulipristal acetate), and copper IUDs.[37][38] In July 2013, the Third Circuit denied a preliminary injunction requested by Conestoga Wood Specialties Corporation, a cabinet manufacturing company owned by a Menonite family, requesting an exemption from the mandate on religious grounds.[39] Both of these rulings were appealed to the Supreme Court, which granted certiorari on the consolidated cases to resolve the split.[40][41] Another decision by the Sixth Circuit in a similar case has been appealed to the Supreme Court, and is being held pending the court's decision in the other two cases.[42]
As of January 2014, at least 28 states in the US have contraceptive mandates; however, 20 of them allow some exceptions; four of those attempt to bridge the gap by letting employees buy coverage at the group rate.[43]
Supreme Court review[edit]
A number of challenges to the contraceptive mandate have been brought to the Supreme Court by different types of organizations.
Closely held for-profit corporations[edit]
On June 30, 2014, the Supreme Court ruled 5 to 4 in Burwell v. Hobby Lobby that under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA), closely held for-profit corporations are exempt from the contraceptive mandate, if they object on religious grounds, because the accommodation offered to objecting non-profits would be a less restrictive way to achieve the ACA's interest. Justice Anthony Kennedy, one of the majority justices, wrote in a concurring opinion that the government "makes the case that the mandate serves the Government's compelling interest in providing insurance coverage that is necessary to protect the health of female employees", but that the RFRA's least-restrictive way requirement was not met because "there is an existing, recognized, workable, and already-implemented framework to provide coverage", the non-profit accommodation.[44]
Religious institutions[edit]
On February 15, 2012, Priests for Life v. HHS was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York challenging the constitutionality of the contraceptive mandate on behalf of Priests for Life, a national, Catholic, pro-life organization based in New York City. The case was dismissed by U.S. District Court Judge Frederic Block for lack of ripeness because the new compromise regulations were not yet finalized.[45][46][47] On November 6, 2015 the Supreme Court of the United States decided it will review the case combined with 6 other similar challenges to the contraceptive mandate.[48][49] The case is titled Zubik v. Burwell and the six other challenges include Priests for Life v. Burwell, Southern Nazarene University v. Burwell, Geneva College v. Burwell, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Washington v. Burwell, East Texas Baptist University v. Burwell and Little Sisters of the Poor Home for the Aged v. Burwell.[48][50][51][52][53][54][55][56][57][58][59]
More Democratic politicians favor these mandates than Republican politicians.[60] Barbara Boxer, Democratic Party Senator for California, and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi favor the Obama policy.[61]
Darrell Issa, a Republican congressman from California, said that Americans are divided on this issue: "While some Americans may not feel that forcing them to pay for contraception are an infringement on their religious beliefs, others consider it to be an assault against their freedom of conscience."[62] Issa's February 2012 hearing on the matter was criticized for including only men from conservative religious institutions, and no women.[63]
Framing the issue[edit]
Some people see the matter as primarily one of women's health, such as the National Women's Law Center.[64] Others see it as a matter of religious freedom.
Certain consumers of mandatory health insurance, such as students matriculated at colleges of further education, have criticized what they perceive to be discrimination in provision or in practice: employer-provided plans that cover University faculty and staff may be subject to legal mandates whereas plans that cover the student body may not. Sandra Fluke was invited to present oral arguments on behalf of certain female student consumers dissatisfied with restrictions attached to registration for undergraduate and graduate attendance at Georgetown University School of Law.[65] No contraceptive mandate applies to private parties entering into an association for commercial gain.[citation needed] Students are required to purchase the University's plan if they are not covered elsewhere, for example under a family members' (parents, spouse) plan, or are able to demonstrate their ability to self-insure at equivalent policy limits for certain levels of medical care.[citation needed]
See also[edit]
- United States House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform (section Hearing on February 16, 2012)
- Rush Limbaugh–Sandra Fluke controversy
- Title X
- Healthy People program
- Legal challenges to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
- Sandra Fluke on Wikiquote
- ^ a b "The Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978". The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. 1978-10-31. Retrieved 2014-01-25.
- ^ a b c "Commission Decision on Coverage of Contraception". The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. 2000-12-14. Retrieved 2014-01-25.
- ^ a b "Contraceptive Coverage in the New Health Care Law: Frequently Asked Questions" (PDF). 2011-11-01. Retrieved 2014-01-25. "The official start date is August 1, 2012, but since most plan changes take effect at the beginning of a new plan year, the requirements will be in effect for most plans on January 1, 2013. School health plans, which often begin their health plan years around the beginning of the school year, will see the benefits of the August 1st start date."
- ^ a b "Prescription Drug Costs and Health Reform: FAQ". 2013-05-04. Retrieved 2014-01-25.
- ^ a b "Contraceptive Coverage in the New Health Care Law: Frequently Asked Questions" (PDF). 2011-11-01. Retrieved 2014-01-25. "These changes include cutting benefits significantly; increasing co-insurance, co-payments, or deductibles or out-of-pocket limits by certain amounts; decreasing premium contributions by more than 5%; or adding or lowering annual limits."
- ^ a b "Contraceptive Coverage in the New Health Care Law: Frequently Asked Questions" (PDF). 2011-11-01. Retrieved 2014-01-25. "Non-grandfathered plans are group health plans created after the health care reform law was signed by the President or individual health plans purchased after that date."
- ^ a b Sonfield, Adam (2013). "Implementing the Federal Contraceptive Coverage Guarantee: Progress and Prospects" (PDF). Guttmacher Policy Review. 16 (4). Retrieved 2014-01-25.
- ^ a b James Trussell; Anjana Lalla; Quan Doan; Eileen Reyes; Lionel Pinto; Joseph Gricar (2009). "Cost effectiveness of contraceptives in the United States". Contraception. 79 (1): 5–14. PMC 3638200 . PMID 19041435. doi:10.1016/j.contraception.2008.08.003.
- ^ a b c d Cleland K, Peipert JF, Westhoff C, Spear S, Trussell J (May 2011). "Family planning as a cost-saving preventive health service". N. Engl. J. Med. 364 (18): e37. PMID 21506736. doi:10.1056/NEJMp1104373.
- ^ Benson, Judy (January 12, 2012). "Clinic at New London High School to offer students contraceptives". The Day. New London, Connecticut. Retrieved May 2, 2014.
- ^ http://web.a.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?sid=c6b5d674-faa4-4c4f-a557-7e13de250a5a%40sessionmgr4001&vid=1&hid=4201&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=nfh&AN=2W6745197254
- ^ http://web.a.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?sid=a8fed20c-3345-43a1-92f0-c01a6d63d4ad%40sessionmgr4003&vid=1&hid=4201&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=nfh&AN=88972266
- ^ a b c http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=aph&AN=6773772&site=ehost-live
- ^ Nick Baumann (February 8, 2012). "Most of Obama's "Controversial" Birth Control Rule Was Law During Bush Years". Mother Jones. Retrieved May 26, 2012.
- ^ "Read the Law | HHS.gov/healthcare". Healthcare.gov. Retrieved 2015-03-11.
- ^ Committee on Preventive Services for Women; Institute of Medicine (July 19, 2011). Clinical Preventive Services for Women: Closing the Gaps. Washington, D.C.: The National Academies Press. ISBN 978-0-309-21538-1.
- ^ U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (August 1, 2011). "Affordable Care Act Ensures Women Receive Preventive Services at No Additional Cost (news release)". Washington, D.C.: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
- ^ U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (January 20, 2012). "A statement by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius (news release)". Washington, D.C.: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
In August 2011, the Department of Health and Human Services issued an interim final rule that will require most health insurance plans to cover preventive services for women including recommended contraceptive services without charging a co-pay, co-insurance or a deductible. The rule allows certain non-profit religious employers that offer insurance to their employees the choice of whether or not to cover contraceptive services. Today the department is announcing that the final rule on preventive health services will ensure that women with health insurance coverage will have access to the full range of the Institute of Medicine's recommended preventive services, including all FDA-approved forms of contraception.
- ^ U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (July 2, 2013). "Coverage of Certain Preventive Services Under the Affordable Care Act; Final Rules". Federal Register. 28 (127): 39870–39899. p. 39870: On August 1, 2011, HRSA adopted and released guidelines for women's preventive health services (HRSA Guidelines) based on recommendations of the independent Institute of Medicine. As relevant here, the HRSA Guidelines include all Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved contraceptive methods, sterilization procedures, and patient education and counseling for women with reproductive capacity, as prescribed by a health care provider (collectively, contraceptive services). However, the HRSA Guidelines exclude services relating to a man's reproductive capacity, such as vasectomies and condoms.
- ^ Dept. Health and Human Services (February 10, 2012). "Group Health Plans and Health Insurance Issuers Relating to Coverage of Preventive Services Under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act – Final Rules" (77 FR 8725). Federal Register, GPO. Retrieved February 15, 2012.
Summary: These regulations finalize, without change, interim final regulations authorizing the exemption of group health plans and group health insurance coverage sponsored by certain religious employers from having to cover certain preventive health services under provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
- ^ Liptak, Adam. "Contraception and Insurance Coverage (Religious Exemption Debate)". The New York Times. Retrieved 16 July 2012.
- ^ "Women's Health vs. Religious Freedom: House Leaders Debate Birth Control Mandate - ABC News". Abcnews.go.com. 2012-03-01. Retrieved 2015-03-11.
- ^ "Senate Blocks Blunt's Repeal of Contraception Mandate - ABC News". Abcnews.go.com. 2012-03-01. Retrieved 2015-03-11.
- ^ "HHS: All Methods of Birth Control Must Be Covered". NationalJournal.com. Retrieved 2015-05-12.
- ^ "HHS: Insurers must cover all birth control". TheHill. Retrieved 2015-05-12.
- ^ "ObamaCare Facts". Retrieved 2015-05-17.
- ^ Denise Grady (January 29, 2012). "Ruling on Contraception Draws Battle Lines at Catholic Colleges". The New York Times. Retrieved February 12, 2012.
- ^ Laurie Goodstein (February 11, 2012). "Bishops Reject White House's New Plan on Contraception". The New York Times. Retrieved February 12, 2012.
- ^ "U.S. Bishops Vow To Fight HHS Edict". United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. January 20, 2012. Retrieved February 8, 2012.
- ^ Erik Eckholm (February 15, 2012). "Both Sides Eager to Take Birth Control Coverage Issue to Voters". The New York Times. Retrieved February 16, 2012.
Is it about religious liberty or women's health?
- ^ a b Parsons, Christi, Kathleen Hennessey and Noam Levey (February 10, 2012). "Obama's birth-control compromise wins some support". The Baltimore Sun. Retrieved February 12, 2012.
- ^ Robert Pear (March 16, 2012). "U.S. Clarifies Policy on Birth Control for Religious Groups". The New York Times. Retrieved March 17, 2012.
- ^ N.C. Aizenman (March 16, 2012). "Birth control rule won't apply to all student plans at colleges, White House says". The Washington Post. Retrieved March 17, 2012.
- ^ Joan Frawley Desmond (June 18, 2012). "Course Correction: Sister Carol Keehan Now Opposes Obama 'Accommodation' for HHS Mandate". National Catholic Register. Retrieved July 2, 2012.
- ^ Laurie Goodstein (February 14, 2012). "Obama Shift on Providing Contraception Splits Critics". The New York Times. Retrieved February 15, 2012.
- ^ Jonathan Cohn (February 8, 2012). "Religious Institutions Matter. So Do Their Employees.". The New Republic.
Jonathan Cohn (February 10, 2012). "Obama's Deal on Birth Control Coverage". The New Republic.
- ^ Wyatt, Kristen (Associated Press) (June 27, 2013). "Hobby Lobby won't have to pay millions in fines as it challenges Obamacare birth control mandate". Huffington Post. Retrieved January 2, 2014.
- ^ Smith, Mailee R. (February 19, 2013). "Amicus Curiae Brief of Association of American Physicians & Surgeons, American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians & Gynecologists, Christian Medical Association, Catholic Medical Association, National Catholic Bioethics Center, Physicians for Life, and National Association of Pro Life Nurses" (PDF). Washington, D.C.: Americans United for Life. Retrieved January 2, 2014.
- ^ "Document - Conestoga Wood Specialties Corp. v. Sec'y HHS, 724 F.3d 377, 121 FEP Cases 66 (3d Cir. 2013), Court Opinion". Bloomberg Law. Retrieved 2015-03-11.
- ^ "Conestoga Wood Specialties Corp. v. Burwell". SCOTUSblog. Retrieved 2015-03-11.
- ^ "Burwell v. Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc.". SCOTUSblog. Retrieved 2015-03-11.
- ^ "Autocam Corp. v. Burwell". SCOTUSblog. Retrieved 2015-03-11.
- ^ "State Policies in Brief: Insurance Coverage of Contraceptives" (PDF). 2014-01-01. Retrieved 2014-01-25. "28 states require insurers that cover prescription drugs to provide coverage of the full range of FDA-approved contraceptive drugs and devices; 17 of these states also cover require coverage of related outpatient services."
- ^ "Supreme Court of the United States : Syllabus : BURWELL, SECRETARY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, ET AL. v. HOBBY LOBBY STORES, INC., ET AL." (PDF). Supremecourt.gov. Retrieved 2015-03-11.
- ^ Jeffrey, Don (Apr 15, 2013). "Priests for Life's Contraceptive Mandate Suit Dismissed". Bloomberg.
- ^ http://www.americanfreedomlawcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Opening-Brief-Filed.pdf
- ^ http://www.christiantoday.com/article/supreme.court.to.hear.nuns.complaint.on.obamacare.contraceptive.mandate/69923.htm
- ^ a b http://www.scotusblog.com/2015/11/court-to-hear-birth-control-challenges/
- ^ http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/06/politics/supreme-court-obamacare-contraception-mandate/index.html
- ^ http://www.goodreads.com/author_blog_posts/9429815-court-grants-all-seven-nonprofit-petitions-in-contraceptive-coverage-cas
- ^ http://balkin.blogspot.com/2015/11/who-is-zubik-in-zubik-v-burwell-and-why.html
- ^ http://blogs.findlaw.com/supreme_court/2015/11/scotus-will-hear-all-the-obamacare-contraception-exemption-cases.html
- ^ http://www.scotusblog.com/case-files/cases/zubik-v-burwell/
- ^ https://www.supremecourt.gov/Search.aspx?FileName=/docketfiles/14-1418.htm/
- ^ https://www.supremecourt.gov/Search.aspx?FileName=/docketfiles/14-1453.htm
- ^ https://www.supremecourt.gov/Search.aspx?FileName=/docketfiles/15-110.htm
- ^ https://www.supremecourt.gov/Search.aspx?FileName=/docketfiles/14-1505.htm
- ^ https://www.supremecourt.gov/Search.aspx?FileName=/docketfiles/15-101.htm
- ^ https://www.supremecourt.gov/Search.aspx?FileName=/docketfiles/15-105.htm
- ^ Geiger, Kim. "Before now, GOP backed contraceptive mandates | The Seattle Times". Seattletimes.nwsource.com. Retrieved 2015-03-11.
- ^ "Obama Birth Control Mandate Divides Democrats". Huffingtonpost.com. Retrieved 2015-03-11.
- ^ "Home | Committee on Oversight & Government Reform". Oversight.house.gov. Retrieved 2015-03-11.
- ^ "House Democrats Walk Out Of One-Sided Hearing On Contraception, Calling It An 'Autocratic Regime'". Huffingtonpost.com. 2012-02-16. Retrieved 2015-03-11.
- ^ https://web.archive.org/web/20120314132256/http://www.nwlc.org/resource/denying-coverage-contraceptives-harms-women. Archived from the original on March 14, 2012. Retrieved March 10, 2012. Missing or empty
- ^ Fluke, Sandra Kay (2012-02-23). "Sandra Fluke testimony to US Congress (2012 February 23)". Retrieved 2014-01-25.


text:
LISTEN: Armin Van Buuren Discusses Life As A World Famous DJ
From Afrojack falling off stage face first at Steve Aoki's pool party, to Avicii having to have his gallbladder & appendix operated on and canceling his appearance at his own Avicii Hotel, as well as his set at Ultra...this year was definitely the weirdest year of Miami Music Week and Ultra.
We got a chance to sit down with one of the biggest dj/producers in the world, Grammy nominated Armin Van Buuren, and asked him about all the artists that got sick. "I've really been worried about all these stories..." he said, "this is one of the negative things of the growth of EDM right now. I'm worried about it."
Listen to what Armin thinks is causing it, as well as what he thinks is the one thing missing from his life.
(photo: Getty Images)


text:
Cadillac ATS General Discussion Forum Discussion, Scratch on Interior Trim in Cadillac ATS Discussion Forums; I just noticed this scratch (or might not be a scratch, feels smooth/flush when I touch it) on my trim ...
- 09-29-13 11:25 AM #1Cadillac Owners Member
- Automobile(s): ATS 2.0L AWD
- Join Date
- Sep 2013
- Posts
- 4
Scratch on Interior Trim
I just noticed this scratch (or might not be a scratch, feels smooth/flush when I touch it) on my trim above the glovebox. Has anyone had any issues with something like this? I didn't know the trim was this sensitive.. I've only had the car for three weeks. Such a bummer since it's dead in the center.
- 09-29-13 11:53 AM #2Cadillac Owners Fanatic
- Automobile(s): 2015 SRX Luxury
- Join Date
- Sep 2012
- Posts
- 481
Re: Scratch on Interior Trim
Talk to your dealer and see what he has to say about it. I'm sure it can be fixed and maybe he could help you with it. The trims are pretty durable and I wouldn't think it would scratch that easily.
Re: Scratch on Interior Trim
i had a loaner ATS with that same trim and man it looked good. i was tempted to trade my carbon fiber trim for that one.
Re: Scratch on Interior Trim
Good call! I'll have to ask my dealer next time I go in. It does seem super durable, so that mark is really odd.
Yep, the trim is very slick. Love it!
- 10-01-13 12:19 PM #5Cadillac Owners Fanatic
- Automobile(s): 2013 ATS 2.0T base
- Join Date
- Jun 2013
- Location
- Zellwood, FL
- Posts
- 158


text:
Trip Tips: Soaking up wine in California's Napa Valley
By Mary Milliken
ST. HELENA, California (Reuters) - When a pair of wines - a Cabernet Sauvignon and a Chardonnay - from California's Napa Valley won the 1976 Paris Tasting over some of France's most famous wines, the area was home to just a few dozen wineries.
Today, there are some 500, owned by multigenerational families, big corporations, Silicon Valley millionaires, celebrities and everyday people, drawn by the allure of winemaking and the beauty of a valley located just 45 miles north of San Francisco.
It may be a booming business, but Napa is still a relaxing destination for those seeking both the luxurious and the laid-back. The small towns that dot Highway 29 are charming, the people are kind, the food is outstanding, and the wine, well, the wine is as good as they say.
Here are tips for getting the most out of a trip to Napa Valley from Reuters, whose 2,600 journalists in all parts of the world offer visitors the best local insights.
Napa Valley really is all about the wine. But don't let that intimidate you.
No one really wants to go to school while on vacation, but a wine course can go a long way to helping you get the most out of this destination. You can also impress your friends and one-up your boss back home.
The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in St. Helena offers a variety of classes, from a two-hour "Tasting Wine Like a Pro" for $95 to a five-day "Wine Lovers Boot Camp" for $2,100. You will taste dozens of very good wines each day, studying color, bouquet and body over and over. The spit bucket will be your best friend. (here) Continued...


text:
Oscar Pistorius 'numb with shock and grief'
Relevant offers
Oscar Pistorius is "numb with shock as well as grief" after the shooting death of his model girlfriend at his home in South Africa, the runner's uncle said as his family "strongly refutes" prosecutors' claims that he murdered her.
Arnold Pistorius spoke with journalists about his nephew's arrest in the killing of Reeva Steenkamp, who was shot four times on the morning of Valentine's Day. Arnold Pistorius spoke to reporters from the garden of his three-story home in the eastern suburbs of South Africa's capital, Pretoria.
The statement, the first on camera and directly made in person by Pistorius' family, also came out strongly against prosecutors seeking to upgrade the charge against Pistorius to one of premeditated murder, which carries a sentence of life in prison.
"After consulting with legal representatives, we deeply regret the allegation of premeditated murder," Arnold Pistorius said. "We have no doubt there is no substance to the allegation and that the state's own case, including its own forensic evidence, strongly refutes any possibility of a premeditated murder or murder as such."
He said the family was "battling to come to terms with Oscar being charged with murder."
The track star's arrest in the killing of 29-year-old Steenkamp shocked South Africa, where Pistorius was a national hero and icon dubbed the Blade Runner for his high-tech carbon fiber running blades and revered for overcoming his disability to compete at the London Olympics.
Steenkamp was discovered in a pool of blood before dawn Thursday (local time) by police called to Pistorius' upscale home in a gated community. Authorities said she had been shot four times, and a 9 mm pistol was recovered at the home.
Pistorius remains held at a police station pending a bail hearing Tuesday. Police have already said they'll oppose Pistorius being released before trial. A premeditated murder charge also makes it more difficult for his defence team to get bail.
On Saturday afternoon, Pistorius' lawyers visited the Brooklyn police station in Pretoria, where the athlete is being held. His younger sister Aimee, who stood alongside Arnold Pistorius when he made his statement, also was at the police station later.
There will be a variety of hearings before Pistorius, 26, could go on trial. In South Africa, there are no juries, so a judge ultimately would decide Pistorius' guilt or innocence, sometimes with the help of two advisers. At an initial hearing Friday, Pistorius sobbed and held his head in his hands at times. He has yet to enter a plea in the case.
The family denial that Pistorius committed murder doesn't necessarily mean that they say he didn't shoot her, as murder is a legal term. Initial speculation immediately after the shooting suggested that it could have been accidental, though police say they are not currently considering that.
Arnold Pistorius did not discuss the circumstances of the shooting, but said that his nephew and Steenkamp had become very close since they started dating in November.
"They had plans together and Oscar was happier in his private life than he had been for a long time," the uncle said.
As Arnold Pistorius read his statement, Pistorius' sister Aimee stood nearby and broke down in tears at one point. Her uncle stopped reading for a moment to put his right arm around her. Pistorius remains very close with his uncle, a man he once lived with as a teenager.
"Words cannot adequately describe our feelings," his uncle said. "The lives of our entire family have been turned upside down forever by this unimaginable human tragedy and Reeva's family have suffered a terrible loss. As a family we are trying to be strong and supportive to Oscar as any close family would be in these dreadful circumstances."
The entire family was "devastated," Pistorius' uncle said, and was "grieving for Reeva, her family and her friends."
Since news of the killing, shock waves have rippled across South Africa, a nation of 50 million where nearly 50 people are killed each day, one of the world's highest murder rates. UN statistics say the nation has the second highest rate of shooting deaths in the world, behind only Colombia. Others have focused their attention on Pistorius and his fascination with fast cars, cage fighting and firearms.
Steenkamp, who graduated from law school, is known in South Africa for appearing in commercials and as a bikini-clad model in men's magazines. On Saturday, South Africa's state broadcaster SABC planned to air a reality TV show featuring the model.
The show's executive producer, Samantha Moon, said Steenkamp's family wanted the show to go ahead. Moon said that the family "wants it on".
"This is how they want to remember her."
Steenkamp's family said they had not been contacted by either the SABC - South Africa's national broadcaster - or the show's producers for permission to air it, but were not opposed to it because Reeva wanted everyone to see it.
''Her last words to us personally was that she wants us to watch it,'' Reeva's cousin Sharon Steenkamp said, hours before the programme was shown.
Another portion of the show released earlier Saturday included a clip of her swimming with two dolphins, which tap her on the cheek with their snouts.
"I think the way that you go out, not just your journey in life, but the way that you go out and the way you make your exit is so important," the blonde-haired Steenkamp says in the video. "You either made an impact in a positive or a negative way, but just maintain integrity and maintain class and just remain true to yourself.
"I'm going to miss you all so much and I love you very, very much."
A Steenkamp family spokesman said relatives still faced a long struggle to come to terms with her killing.
''I can't see the family getting over this shortly,'' Reeva's uncle, Mike Steenkamp said.
''It's going to be a long, long-term reconciliation with a lot of things and issues.''
Family members plan for a memorial service next week for the model in Port Elizabeth, her hometown on South Africa's southern coast.
Sponsored links
Rogue lumberjacks allegedly take wood earmarked for children's playground
Purple Andromeda 'spaceship' theatre could land in central Christchurch
Public come to aid of 'screaming', injured bus passengers in Central Otago fatal crash
Christchurch's new Crowne Plaza hotel to open this weekend after 'long haul'
Youth Custody Index aims to break cycle of youth incarceration
Christchurch Hospital staff get trial bus service as DHB tries to ease parking woes
Victim says sex offender Peter Lindsay Armitage 'took my innocence'
Child falls off cliff on walking track near Wanaka
Car overturned after crash on central Christchurch road
Reports of illegal hunting near Tuatapere after pet goat was killed
Christchurch City Council frowns on anti-loitering bylaw for Riccarton
Greenpeace water report calls for cow decrease
Waikuku petrol station ram-raid admitted by teenager
Victim says sex offender Peter Lindsay Armitage 'took my innocence'
Rogue lumberjacks allegedly take wood earmarked for children's playground
Christchurch's new Crowne Plaza hotel to open this weekend after 'long haul'
British mini-mart in Christchurch takes on food giant Sanitarium over cereal spat
Car overturned after crash on central Christchurch road
Why is your town the best in NZ?
'We cannot compete' for first home in Christchurch
Major changes proposed for Riccarton Rd
Undue stress for St Bede's rowers' team-mates
Easter set to start with sunshine
Botanic Gardens kiosk to get $110,000 upgrade
House of the week: Christchurch
Air New Zealand ends Christchurch Tokyo flights
Colonial homestead in North Canterbury abandoned by UK owners, looking for love
Rogue lumberjacks allegedly take wood earmarked for children's playground
Public come to aid of 'screaming', injured bus passengers in Central Otago fatal crash
The Queenstown home built for $26,500
British mini-mart in Christchurch takes on food giant Sanitarium over cereal spat
Victim says sex offender Peter Lindsay Armitage 'took my innocence'
Consumer NZ warns online daters of Private Event website
Christchurch's new Crowne Plaza hotel to open this weekend after 'long haul'
Lions Tour: Daniel Carter's greatest ever test match re-lived
Child falls off cliff on walking track near Wanaka
Car overturned after crash on central Christchurch road


text: If anyone here is interested, Warp9Racing will soon be producing sumo wheel/brake kits for the DR650. Their R&D department borrowed my enduro 2005 DR and have been engineering/reverse engineering for almost a week now. It'll be the complete deal with rear sprocket and oversized front brake rotor. They are close to having a production version prototyped. Keep your eyes out!


text:
History buffs, educators and appreciators of the region's crafts tradition will celebrate the official launch of the Craft Revival Project online collection Friday and Saturday, May 22-23, at the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
"Craft Revival: Shaping Western North Carolina Past and Present" is a Web site and digital archive housed at Western Carolina University's Hunter Library. Project partners aim to create a Web-based digital history of the historic effort to revive handicrafts in the western part of North Carolina.
The library receives artifacts from its partners – John C. Campbell Folk School, the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, Penland School of Crafts, Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, the Southern Highlands Craft Guild, WCU's Mountain Heritage Center and the library's own Special Collections. Items such as documents, letters, photographs, oral histories and other objects that tell the story of the craft revival from 1895 to 1945 are digitized and uploaded into the project database.
The celebration will begin at 6:30 p.m. May 22 at the Folk Art Center with a talk by Jeff Biggers, author of the popular history work "United States of Appalachia: How Southern Mountaineers Brought Independence, Culture and Enlightenment to America." Robert Morgan, author of "Boone" and "Gap Creek," says Biggers' book "opens a new window on the complex history of the region called Appalachia."
The book examines the region as a great contributor to the country's cultural wealth, from Nina Simone, who went on to become an international diva with her blend of folk, jazz and Bach-motif riffs, to Sequoyah, the legendary Cherokee who invented the first syllabary in modern times. Biggers and Craft Revival Director Anna Fariello will use the Web site to talk about the influence of the region's crafts on the development of the arts in America during the May 22 event.
From 9 a.m. until noon on May 23, the public will have an opportunity to learn more about what the Craft Revival Web site offers through an interactive workshop. Workstations will help K-12 teachers to facilitate their use of lesson plans, bibliographies and resources; a collections-based station will assist museum staffers in utilizing the Web site to identify objects in their collections; a digital station will outline basic scanning techniques; and a "scavenger hunt" station will allow participants to solve research questions using the site.
Teachers who wish to receive CEU credit should preregister by contacting HandMade in America's Norma Bradley at (828) 298-8555 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
Hunter Library is sponsoring the launch in partnership with HandMade in America and the Southern Highland Craft Guild. The State Library of North Carolina and the Institute of Museum and Library Services have provided funding for the project.
The Folk Art Center is located at milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Asheville. For more information about the May 22-23 events, contact Anna Fariello at (828) 227-2499 or email@example.com. Visit the Craft Revival Web site at http://craftrevival.wcu.edu.
By Sarah Kucharski


text:
Haydn Porter Model
SteffanieCruseDickersonPhotographer Female Edmond, Oklahoma, US
My MM URL: http://www.modelmayhem.com/thecruse
Mayhem # 717352
About Me
I'm a Photo major at the University of Central Oklahoma, a bit crazy and random as hell. As I like experiment, I don't have a specific style so much as I just get inspired by the people I photograph. Once I see a specific person or place I will work an idea around the subject. I'm always looking for new people and ideas!
Have you worked with SteffanieCruseDickerson? Add Credits for SteffanieCruseDickerson! >>
Haydn Porter Model
Jessi June Model
DakotaLee Model
Chelsea Christian Model
HollyLinn Model
LilyAvery Model
Loading Content


text:
!! Steeda CAI Results Only !!
Before I order the Steeda intake would like to hear from ONLY those that have the intake. I know there is a thread about 3 miles long on the release of the intake but would like to hear from those that have it and what their findings are for real world. Do you like it? Notice better throttle response? Would you do it again?
I believe Duffman said that he was going to install his intake today.
Unfortunately Fedex kind of sucks so I don't think my package will come till about 6:30 tonight (I originally had planned to install it sunday but there was a minor snafu). I can let you know tonight how I like it though. I already have an exhasut so my gains are going to be a bit better than if I just had the intake. In terms of sound, again since I have a loud exhasut, I won't be able to tell you about the loudness of it, just the overall tone. Since I had the STeeda intake on my last two Foci, I can already tell you Id do it again.
Actually I spoke too soon, it is holding for me. Off to go shopping, pick up my package and play with my car. I will let you know later.
Hi, I know your looking for more feedback than what I have to share but thought I'd post...might find it helpful to you/ some.
My new Focus is on order, being built 5/7/12. But I have already bought the Steeda CAI...looks great and well made. Guess what...MADE IN USA!!! Best of luck on your search:thumbup:
While I found the amount of assembly required to be a bit over the top, it certainly looks good under the hood and there is DEFINITELY a noticeable difference in power. I'm aware the "butt-dyno" isn't the most reliable but I'm for sure feeling a difference.
Sound is a nice growl. As I've stated in another thread, it's like when you take the top off the stock airbox but at least a 1/3 less loud and definitely more refined. The only time mine sounds a little "off" is in second gear between 2500 and 3500 rpms if I'm not gunning it (sounds raspy).
I'm very much looking forward to hearing it in combination with my custom Borla exhaust this Thursday. Should be sick.
Ok as promised *cracks knuckles*:
Still comes in the same white Steeda box. Nice packaging as usual. Instructions were numerous but pretty simple and easy to follow. Parts were well made and all the holes lined up with the screws etc. The only thing I had to do was bore out one of the holes with my drill becasue I couldn't thread it by hand with my screw driver. It is a bit of a tight squeeze to get the completed unit inside but it not a huge deal. The hood does indeed seal with the top of the airbox as Steeda Brandon advertised (you could see a slight indentation in the soft foam of the hood from the airbox after it was closed and I drove it). Also the air filter is rather large. Install took me an hour, hour and a half. The only thing is; make sure you have one of those nice Craftsman 23 piece screwdriver with the magnetic insertable tips. You need various sized allen wrenches, a torx bit for the stock maf screws, a flat head and something else. Also don't mind the dirty steeda fuse box cover. I am still waiting on it to seal before I can give it a good wipedown.
Pic? Pic:
Also since I like Steeda, I am rocking their window decal (it came with the instructions). That has to be good for atleast 5 more horsepower.
So I suppose you want to know how it drives. As previously stated I already have the FS Werks race exhaust, so I was not expecting it to be any louder, just deeper in tone under throttle.
Startup: Sounded the same at idle. Revving it with the hood open gave some slight whooshing, which was not really as noticeable with the hood down due to loud exhasut.
Normal acceleration: Again sounds the same to me since I have my exhasut. No real difference in tone.
WOT: Sounds wicked! You really start to hear it at 3,000 rpms, and with the windows shut it almost sounded like secondary intake runners kicking in at 4,000. Windows down it is deep and throaty throughout the band. You can definitely hear it.
Performance? I definitely think it feels quicker throughout the rev band (remember the car isn't any louder really so I am not just thinking this becasue of more noise). Even at highway speeds in high gear it pulls harder.
So the much debated 20 pounds of torque gained down low?
I did launch it and only got minor wheel spin, but I don't think it really bogged or had that lag in acceleration as much. Note I am running 93 octane, so say what you will about that as well.
All in all, I think this car is quicker than the my old ST with the same mods. The gearing is a bit different but I still think this one is quicker. It does sound better too since the exhasut has only the one internal cat in the head that I still have on there, hence making it deeper and less raspy. I actually like the heat shield much better on this one as opposed to the old one. It is a better simpler design and I think this one is blocked off from the heat better too. I also like the fact that they retain the stock snorkel so it is pulling in colder air without the risk of hydrolock.
So the question to yourself is what to buy first intake or exhasut? Sound vs. power. While the exhaust does add power, the intake adds more and together they bring out the best in eachother. Personally I couldn't stand the lack of exhasut note (and Injen might had been the only intake out at the time) so I went with exhasut. The dual tip is sexy. Since I didn't post up a pic of my plastidipped stripes during the day here you go.
Duff i know this is off Topic but can I join the Official Mayo Hater club too?[offtopic] [headbang]
|All times are GMT -5. The time now is 04:33 PM.
Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.8
Copyright ©2000 - 2017, vBulletin Solutions, Inc.
Search Engine Optimization by vBSEO 3.6.1
vBulletin Security provided by vBSecurity v2.2.2 (Pro) - vBulletin Mods & Addons Copyright © 2017 DragonByte Technologies Ltd.


text:
This unit offers B&B accommodation in well appointed private rooms inside this turn of the century traditional French rural home.
Mas de Sudre is set in beautiful gently undulating countryside 3 km from the ancient wine producing centre of Gaillac. We are close to Albi (birthplace of Toulouse-Lautrec) and several stunning Bastide villages such as Cordes and Castelnau-de-Montmiral. Nearby are the Tarn & Aveyron rivers where you can enjoy canoeing, fishing (with permit) or a picnic. This is a marvellous area for walking and cycling.
About the Owner
Available Rentals
Please contact us by email or telephone beforehand to check availability.
Please vacate your room by 10am and not arrive before 4pm.
B&B - an extra bed/cot can be added for 25 euros per night.
0 Reviews
Activity and Interests
We are 60km from Toulouse airport. There is a very good national rail service as far as Gaillac, which is 4km away. We can arrange to collect you from Gaillac, but with no local public transport, you may wish to hire a car to explore the area, which has a great deal to offer by way of medieval villages, local markets and ancient forests.
We are 4km from Gaillac, 20km from the UNESCO World Heritage city of Albi - the ancient episcopal seat of the Tarn. Toulouse is 60km (1 hour by car).
Further Details:
Gaillac is the nearest access to shops, supermarkets, banks, medical centre and other expected facilities. There are many surrounding historic villages, and all have their own local markets - largely local produce, although some (such as Cordes sur Ciel and St Antonin Noble Val, also have crafts and artisanal goods).
Property Type
- cottage
Accommodation Type
- Guest House
- Internet
Pool / Spa
- Heated Pool
- Outdoor Pool
Location Type
- rural
- churches
- cinemas
- forests
- library
- museums
- playground
- pond
- restaurants
- winery tours
Leisure Activities
- bird watching
- horse riding
- scenic drives
- sight seeing
- walking
Local Services & Businesses
- ATM/bank
- groceries
- hospital
- massage therapist
- medical services
Sports & Adventure Activities
- cycling
- equestrian events
- fishing
- fly fishing
- freshwater fishing
- golf
- hiking
- hunting
- mountain biking
- tennis
- Bathroom 1 - Toilet, Bath (no shower), Shower Enclosure
- Shower room 1 - Shower Enclosure
- Shower room 2 - Shower Enclosure
- 3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 6
- Bedroom 1
- Bedroom 2
- Bedroom 3
- Golf ...
- Ski & Snowboard ...
House Rules
- Max. occupancy: 6
- pets considered
- Outside: All three properties enjoy the use of the extensive mature gardens and which include luxury swimming pool, a tennis court, boules pitch, two barbecue areas. There are table tennis and darts available as well as numerous seating areas throughout, giving a choice of shade throughout the long summers.