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Job creation in Phoenix is a critical issue that threatens our hope for a sustained economic recovery. While we have heard many suggestions for creating Phoenix jobs, we have yet to hear of the positive role that resuscitating the initial public offering (IPO) market can play on job creation. By taking a look back at successes of the past, perhaps it can help to resuscitate IPOs as we move forward to economic recovery.
IPOs in the 1990s inspired confidence and created a source of capital that led to equity investment in private companies, giving rise to a "virtuous circle" of capital formation, job growth, innovation and increases in tax revenues.
From 2000 to 2009, we saw an average of only 126 corporate IPOs per year – down more than 76 percent from the prior decade, nowhere near enough to replace the 360 public companies that are lost annually to delistings.
Common sense dictates that when the number of IPOs declines, the availability of capital for job creation shrinks; when the number of companies de-listed from stock markets exceeds the number listed, jobs are shed. This "circle of destruction" undermines investment in private companies — considered the "foundation of job formation" — leaving behind a "foundation for unemployment."
Consider that by 2000, unemployment had fallen to a mere four percent after an eight-year decline that coincided with the robust IPO market. Unemployment began to rise in the next few years amid the bursting of the dot-com bubble and the dissolution of thousands of businesses, but then ebbed once again from 2004-2007 as IPOs modestly reemerged. As we have seen, the credit crisis and the concurrent disappearance of IPOs in the past couple of years has been the backdrop for a sharp rise in unemployment.
The antidote is simple: restore the ecosystem that supported the allocation of capital to small Phoenix companies.
To do this we need to create a new stock market structure — subject to the same regulatory oversight and disclosure requirements that govern the NYSE and NASDAQ — that provides specifically for adequate economic incentives for Wall Street to return to the business of supporting small companies with research, capital and sales support. This new market would have minimum spreads of $0.10 for stocks below $5 per share and $0.20 for stocks trading at or above $5 per share, thus restoring incentives for brokerages to pursue profitability, while providing sufficient economics to support small cap liquidity.
The U.S. stock market once was the envy of the world — in large part because it fueled economic growth. Access to capital is the life blood of growing companies.
Resuscitating the IPO market for small cap businesses may not be the sole answer to Phoenix job creation, but it certainly should be part of every conversation.


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Results 1 to 13 of 13
19th November 2013 05:27 PM #1
- Join Date
- Feb 2012
- Location
- Marrickville, Sydney, Australia
- Posts
- 170
Astonishing picture of baby born inside amniotic sac in ultra rare phenomenon
Hi all
How about this for an amazing photo? [click on it to see a larger image] It was published in a number of newspapers in June 2013. The Greek doctor present at the birth snapped this picture.
Newborn Baby Delivered Floating in Intact Amniotic Sac, En Caul, by Greek Doctor
20th November 2013 08:06 AM #2
This is an amazing photo!
I've heard if a few cases of the baby being born in its sac recently which have been during a gentle birth where the woman breathed out her baby (i.e. mother-directed pushing rather than coached pushing). I wonder if this is more likely to leave the waters intact?
With my second baby, my waters did not break until I was 10cm. I think my waters being intact up to this point really helped to cushion the intensity of the contractions. I note that Dr. Sears writes 'mothers hold onto your waters, they are there for a reason'. I wish I'd known this for my first birth where I allowed the midwife to break my waters with the aim to speed along the labour when actually I just found it more difficult to cope with after this had happened. Another reason, in my opinion, to let birth happen at its own speed and timing.
I'd be interested to hear at what point in labour other forum members' waters broke.
Warm wishes,
20th November 2013 08:48 AM #3
- Join Date
- Nov 2013
- Location
- Sydney
- Posts
- 35
Hmm, first bub, can't remember at what point my waters broke. Sometime during active labour though.
Second, it was the 3rd last push before she was born. Next push I felt her head come down and go back up, the one after that she came slithering out. Neither of those last two pushes were conscious efforts from me, my body did it all on its own :P
21st November 2013 06:36 AM #4
Women's bodies are amazing aren't they Asrathiel?!
In my second pregnancy and labour I learnt to trust my body again and simply follow my body and baby's lead in labour. It was when I 'switched off' the interacting/ thinking side of my brain and 'went within' myself that labour came quickly and easily.
Thank you for sharing your story Asrathiel.
Best wishes,
2nd December 2013 10:14 AM #5
- Join Date
- Jan 2012
- Posts
- 1,936
I had two different midwives for the births of my 5 children.
Baby #1 - midwife turned the baby with bag in tact (she was posterior) and bag broke spontaneously while I laboured in the bathtub.
Baby #2 - midwife let me labour all night (while she slept) and when she awoke she noticed the bag was still in tact and said, "I'd have been begging to have my bag broken hours ago." She broke the bag and baby was born 2 hours later. That was the point where I realized that when the bag breaks, contactions intensify.
Baby #3 - midwife broke the bag and turned baby (once again posterior, giving me back labour) and there was light mec in the water meaning that baby was under stress a little bit. That baby was born with a congenital heart defect. I wonder if baby's heart defect had anything to do with him being under stress.
Baby #4 (2nd midwife) water birth and bag broke spontaneously in the water just before pushing began.
Baby #5 - (2nd midwife) water birth and bag broke during pushing. In fact I remember asking if it would be okay for baby to be born without the sac breaking. That's when I learned that the midwife had delivered a number of babies in the caul.
5th December 2013 08:17 AM #6
Very interesting Kate, thank you.
My second baby boy had thick meconium in the waters (when my water broke at 10cm). I have wondered whether it was caused by stress to him because I didn't believe I could possibly be fully dilated (I was concerned that I may only be about 5cm at that point) so perhaps I had been resisting the pushing feelings and this had caused my baby stress.
7th December 2013 05:43 AM #7
- Join Date
- Dec 2013
- Posts
- 26
I have had two hospital births and had my waters broken both times. With my first baby, I had been in labour 5 hours when my husband had stepped out for a few minutes to get some lunch.
The doctor came in to the room, took out what looked like a knitting needle and just broke my waters without explaining what was happening. I was terrified and upset and thought it could have been handled so much better. My husband was upset that it had been done while he was out of the room and that it had frightened me. I had gone into the birth feeling extremely anxious so that didn't help!!
My second was a high risk pregnancy so I was induced at 39 weeks and the same doctor broke my waters with the same implement. This time I knew what to expect so it wasn't as scary. It didn't speed up my labour on either occasion but the contractions hit me like a tonne of bricks!
7th December 2013 07:56 AM #8
I'm very sorry to hear that you were not treated with the proper care and respect when your waters were broken with your first baby twolittleboys. It is such a shame that the doctor didn't communicate properly why he/she wanted to break your water and what that would involve. You should also have been given private time to discuss whether you wanted this intervention with your husband.
Being scared in labour unfortunately changes the way a woman's brain and body deal with the labour and makes the woman more likely to tense up and 'resist' contractions (rather then breathing through/ with them) and so can make the contractions less efficient and the labour more painful and longer.
7th December 2013 08:06 AM #9
- Join Date
- Dec 2013
- Posts
- 26
You are your own best advocate and I should have stood up for myself at the time! It was a strange situation where I had been induced and had been in labour five hours but the doctor was impatient that I wasn't moving along faster. I really didn't need those kind of emotions in the room at the time!
Child birth is my own personal Everest and I have always been very scared about it. I am so proud of myself for having done it twice now!
I love reading stories about people having peaceful births in the comfort of their own homes. It sounds so much more relaxed! I definitely resisted my contractions and although I had read about it on my own, none of my health care practitioners ever discussed how to get through the birth. I'm sure I was very underprepared!
8th December 2013 06:26 AM #10
I agree you can be your own advocate but in labour many women feel unable to do this. Partly, this is because in labour our brain tries to stop us interacting with what is going on around us so that we can focus all our attention on relaxing and letting the uterine muscles open. This is why many women choose to have a doula with them and their partner in labour. As one doula puts it:
'Our job is to listen to the needs and requirements of women and create a positive labour atmosphere that allows parents to feel empowered and positive so that they move into the postnatal period with a newborn well, happy and empowered.'
Sometimes, in labour, a woman needs someone else who fully understands her birth hopes to be her advocate.
A doctor's impatience and unnecessary interventions should have no place in a modern hospital.
Warm wishes,
9th December 2013 01:39 PM #11
- Join Date
- Dec 2013
- Posts
- 26
I have a friend who has had two 'happy and empowered' births and I always envied her
I must say that in spite of a few external things that I couldn't control (like my doctor's strange attitude) I look back at both births as mostly positive experiences, because I didn't think I could do it and I DID, and because I got my two wonderful sons out of the experience. Our bodies can do amazing things
25th March 2014 06:36 PM #12
- Join Date
- Mar 2014
- Location
- Toowoomba, Australia
- Posts
- 29
I have seen quite a few pictures of babies born in the caul lately. With both of mine, my waters broke shortly before I started pushing.
Patti Ramos, birth photographer, has a few gorgeous pictures.
This is a lot more common in natural and homebirths. Midwifethinking has a really good post on how important the amniotic sac is in protecting baby during labour and why it should not be broken without a good reason!
28th July 2015 07:07 AM #13
My third baby - our daughter who is 10 months old now - was born 'in the caul'. It was a wonderful homebirth in the birthing pool. When I wrote my earlier posts above I had no idea I would personally experience this!

subset: commoncrawl


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Multnomah University prepares students for meaningful careers that serve Jesus whether they're called to traditional ministry or the marketplace.
Stay connected to our community and help the next generation of Christian leaders become agents of positive change, whether they're serving across the street or across an ocean.
An application of the principles of homiletics to the development and delivery of sermons with emphasis on relevant biblical exposition. Prerequisite: BIB104 and COM205, or instructor's permission.


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Hi Guys,
I have two station connected on the same LAN network:
- Box - 192.168.1.1
- Win 7 - 192.168.1.3
I'm looking forward how to prevent the Win 7 station to request on website (I have the IP for this website). The thing is I want this station to be able to request everything, except this IP. For this exemple, let say that the IP we want to block is Facebook.com (188.8.131.52).
A MITM with arpspoof and dnsnif is OK to block any connexion (and for exemple redirect them to my local apache server), but I don't know how to block only a specific connexion.
I hope all is clear enough and thanks in advance !


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Learn more about your UNLV police department, campus crime prevention, and personal safety issues, as well as register personal property during the Rebel Roundtable Meet & Greet Table and Property Registration Event.
Officer Paul Velez will be on hand to answer any law enforcement and safety questions from curious students, faculty, administrative and support staff personnel. He will also be available to register personal property such as laptops, cell phones, and other valuables.
By registering your personal property, UNLV Police Services will be able to quickly return it if it's recovered.
Property registration is completely free of charge!


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As Steve Luhm reported earlier Monday, the Jazz have sent rookie guard Kevin Murphy to the D-League for an assignment with the Reno BigHorns.
Following the Jazz's shoot around in advance of Monday's game versus Denver, Utah General Manager Dennis Lindsey said the team wants Murphy to get opportunities to play and learn to be a professional. The assignment is open-ended, but Murphy will be with the D-League affiliate for a minimum of five games.
Lindsey said, "We don't want him to be a 'pig' scorer," meaning that despite Murphy being the player with the most recent NBA experience he still is a team player.
"Our evaluation of him," Lindsey said, "is not going to be, 'You go score 40 points, we're bringing you back to the Jazz.'"
In addition to Lindsey, Jazz scouts Richard Smith and David Fredman will be in Reno to monitor Murphy's progress.
"We have skill and physical development goals that we sent along with him," Lindsey said. "We'll keep those more close to the vest. Ty and my approach wth Kevin was to give him the right mindset on the assignment."
Lindsey pointed to San Antonio's Danny Green and Sacramento's Chuck Hayes, who Lindsey worked with in Houston, as players who spent time in the D-League and returned to key roles with their teams.
"There's a lot of good examples that you can point to," Lindsey said. "Playing time, development, conditioning, rhythm, all supercede being the 13th, 14th option on an NBA bench. "
Bill Oram


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It's all about the power of choice-and discovering that power through education.
That was the resounding theme Saturday night as members of the community came together to celebrate and participate in the 10th annual Black History Month banquet .
Monica Scott, a 2000 graduate of Chiefland High School and a recipient of a Black History Committee Scholarship, was keynote speaker for the evening.
If you currently subscribe or have subscribed in the past to the Chiefland Citizen, then simply find your account number on your mailing label and enter it below.
Click the question mark below to see where your account ID appears on your mailing label.
If you are new to the award winning Chiefland Citizen and wish to get a subscription or simply gain access to our online content then please enter your ZIP code below and continue to setup your account.
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Are Drake and Zoe Kravitz an item?
Listen to Drake on iHeartRadio
Seriously — this could be the most perfect couple EVER.
Drake — he posted this photo below of his washboard abs … HELLO — and Zoe Kravitz? Yes, we could be here for this one.
So where are these romance rumors coming from? This photo of the two of them was posted on one of the 27-year-old rapper's fan sites, and we have to admit, the two look pretty good together.
Plus, this past weekend, the duo was caught dining at a Venice Beach restaurant, and he posted a photo of himself wearing a hat that reads "Lolawolf," the name of Zoe's new band.
And if that's not enough? ET Canada tweeted on Oct. 31, "Could Drake have a new lady in his life? The rapper was spotted packing on the
#PDA with Zoe Kravitz while the two were in Toronto."
Even Drake himself has gushed about the daughter of Lisa Bonet and Lenny Kravitz, telling Fader TV in 2011 that "Zoe Kravitz is like one of my favorite people in the world."


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What kind of school is Andrews University?
Andrews is a small, private Christian university, offering everything from one-year certificates to doctoral degrees
What makes Andrews unique?
Andrews is unique because it's a small Christian school that can provide both quality education and warm community. It is the most cosmopolitan school in Adventism and one of the most diverse campuses in the United States.
Where is Andrews?
Andrews is located in Berrien Springs, Michigan, about a 30-minute drive from South Bend, Indiana, and two-hour drive from Chicago
I am looking to work on an undergraduate, graduate or PhD program—how can I find out more about Andrews?
Just follow the links on this website to the department or departments that you are interested in. There you will find a lot of information. Feel free to contact any of the professors listed by the email address provided. They are more than happy to help you with anything that you need. Also, you can give us a call on our free hotline,
1-800-253-2874 or drop us an email for any specific information you need or to arrange a visit. We are waiting to hear from you!
What academic programs are on offer at Andrews?
Almost 200 different educational programs are offered at Andrews. Options for study range from one-year certificates to doctoral degrees.
If I want to get in touch with someone in particular at AU, how do I do so?
You can look them up on our website. Just go to "Search" on the homepage, choose "For People" and type in the name of whoever you are looking for. We list names and various contact details to make getting in touch simple.
I want to come see the school, how do I go about arranging that?
Just give us a call or email email@example.com and we'll provide free food and lodging during your visit. We'll give you a guided tour of the college and we can arrange for you to talk to professors in the departments you are interested in.
I've heard that Andrews is very international, how many different countries are represented at Andrews?
We represent over 90 countries, and almost all 50 states. Andrews is one of the most diverse campuses in the United States. According to U.S. News & World Report's 2015 edition of "America's Best Colleges," we are tied for 2nd in campus ethnic diversity and 7th for most international students.
How long has Andrews University been around?
Andrews University started in 1874. We've been located in Berrien Springs for over 100 years.
What sort of campus security does Andrews provide?
We take campus safety very seriously at Andrews. The Office of Campus Safety patrols the campus at night and provides a free escort anywhere on campus for those who may desire one. Access to the university after 11 p.m. is very closely monitored. The campus is also well-lit at night to provide added security.
I don't really know what I want to major in yet, is that a problem?
Not at all. In fact, we respect the fact that you want to wait until you are sure before declaring your major(s). Explore Andrews is a new initiative to help you discover your calling!
What can I do for fun around Andrews?
Join one of our intramural sports teams, dive into our pool, bike the trails behind Burman Hall (one of our residences for men), join any of the many cultural clubs that are always planning activities or join forces with your fellow classmen and compete in the annual campus-wide competition, Almost Anything Goes. Andrews offers unlimited options to keep you occupied.
How many Adventist churches are there in the area?
There are approximately 30 churches in the area in and around Andrews. Pioneer Memorial Church is the main college church located on the campus mall. Several churches including the African-American style New Life Church, meet on campus and several more in Berrien and the surrounding area.


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Fred H. Gage Elected to the European Molecular Biology Organization
Fred H. Gage, a professor in the Laboratory for Genetics at the Salk Institute and the Vi and John Adler Chair for Research on Age-Related Neurodegenerative Diseases, is one of only three Americans elected an Associate Member to the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) in 2009.
"The election once again puts a spotlight on the most outstanding representatives of the current generation of life scientists. We look forward to the fresh impulses this exceptional group will bring to our organization," said EMBO Director Hermann Bujard.
Gage's laboratory concentrates on the adult central nervous system and unexpected plasticity and adaptability to environmental stimulation that remains throughout the life of all mammals. He and his colleagues showed that, contrary to accepted dogma, human beings are capable of growing new nerve cells throughout life.
Small populations of immature nerve cells are found in the adult mammalian brain, which are generated in a process called neurogenesis. Gage is working to understand how these cells can be induced to become mature functioning nerve cells in the adult brain and spinal cord.
His lab also showed that environmental enrichment and physical exercise can enhance the growth of new brain cells and his team is studying the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms that may be harnessed to repair the aged and damaged brain and spinal cord.


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Surfer Beware
Welcome to the Homefront Reporter
We think you'll find the information contained in this newsletter to be a valuable tool for enhancing your Internet experience. If, however, you'd prefer not to receive these bulletins on a monthly basis, click HERE.
Surfer Beware - Protect Yourself From Internet Security Threats
Last month, Microsoft Corp. issued a software fix (called a "patch") to address a critical security hole in its Internet Explorer Web browser - a flaw cybercrooks had already discovered and begun to exploit. The flaw allows intruders to seize control of the PCs of anyone visiting their malicious websites, potentially giving them the ability to install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights.
If you're one of the many who use Internet Explorer, take note of this recent cybercrook scheme. To lure unsuspecting victims to these websites, spam e-mails are sent out asking you to click on links to news stories about the U.S. dollar vs. other currencies. After clicking on the link, your PC freezes up for approximately 30 seconds while the website installs a software program that captures online bank account log-ins and sends them back to cybercrooks.
To protect your computer from this and other serious threats, Microsoft Corp. offers a free security updates system that includes the posting of any new security bulletin updates on the second Tuesday of each month. A list of Microsoft security updates is available at www.microsoft.com/security/bulletins. If you use Microsoft products (such as Internet Explorer, Windows, Office, and MSN Messenger), we strongly recommend you visit this web page monthly to download the critical software fixes listed there. An even better idea is to have a "Microsoft Security Updates Alert" automatically sent to you each month by Microsoft Corp. Simply go to www.microsoft.com/security/bulletins/alerts.mspx. At this web page, you can sign up to receive e-mail, instant messaging, or RSS alerts each time a major security update is released.
The Microsoft Windows Update website, www.update.microsoft.com/windowsupdate, provides another easy way to quickly install software fixes for Microsoft products. When you visit this web page, your PC is automatically scanned for missing critical software updates, providing you with a list of updates that you can choose to install.
It is worth repeating that Microsoft will NEVER e-mail you software updates as e-mail attachments. Malicious hackers have been known to send spoof e-mail messages that appear to come from Microsoft, urging you to download the accompanying attachment to prevent infection by a virus or worm. These attachments are actually worms or viruses themselves. If you are not currently set up to automatically receive software updates from Microsoft, ALWAYS be sure to go to Microsoft web pages to download Microsoft-related patches and service packs rather than doing so via links e-mailed to you.
Of course, it is also vitally important to use and regularly update your computer's anti-virus software. Always scan file attachments of all incoming e-mail messages, even messages from people you trust. Many viruses and worms are spread over networks, through attachments, and by sharing storage media such as diskettes, Zip disks, and CDs. You have the ultimate responsibility for protecting your computer against these threats.
Tom Broksle of Sheridan was randomly selected from all those who completed last month's Internet survey to receive a $25 credit on his next 3 Rivers telephone bill. Thank you to all members who took the time to respond to our survey. We appreciate all the valuable input provided and will use it to better serve you in the future. Look for more surveys in this space in the future.
Is Montana Homefront Your Web Portal?
If you haven't made 3 Rivers Communications' Montana Homefront your Internet portal yet, it's time to check it out and see what you've been missing! If you're a 3 Rivers Internet subscriber you can get weather, national news, sports and entertainment headlines, email, stock quotes, games, e-greetings, Internet search features, and much more-all from one convenient location. All in a page customized by you!
More important, though, is the access the portal provides to local news and other information--local schools, churches, law enforcement and other community organizations currently post information on all kinds of neighborhood happenings, from church pancake breakfasts to local Boys & Girls club events. Check it out at www.montanahomefront.com.
Ask The Help Desk - What is an RSS Feed?
Question: I've heard about people getting Web content via RSS feeds? What is an RSS feed?
Answer: RSS, which stands for "really simple syndication" or "RDF site summary," is an Internet-based information delivery system to which you can subscribe to have news and other information delivered to your computer, much like a newspaper delivered to your front doorstep.
RSS allows news website developers to distribute their news and information to customers who gather it in software known as "RSS readers." This information usually includes the news website's headlines and article summaries that you click on for more information.
If a website offers RSS subscriptions, it's usually indicated with some descriptive copy and an orange button labeled "XML" or a blue button labeled "RSS." Just click this button, then copy and paste the appropriate web address URL into your reader to visit the site and retrieve headlines and article summaries you have requested.
Great Sites To Check Out This Month
Mission: Impossible: III Explodes Onto Screens
http://missionimpossible.com - Super-agent Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) returns this month for the third installment of the billion-dollar Mission: Impossible franchise. This time around, director J.J. Abrams (Lost, Alias) brings his unique blend of action and drama to the mix. Expect multiple international shoot locations, more stunts and action sequences, plus a storyline that includes a deeper look into the personal side of Ethan Hunt. If your mission is to find out more, head to this site to view video clips, get behind-the-scenes production notes, and meet the cast. You can even sign up to become an IMF agent and join the Mission: Impossible: III Scavenger Hunt. Rated PG13.
New Coaster Is Tops In Air-Time
http://holidayworld.com - The world's top wooden coaster in air-time, the Voyage, opens this month at Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana. Take the plunge and you'll experience a feeling of weightlessness for a total of 24.2 seconds. This exhilarating ride also features three drops of over 100 feet, five underground tunnels, 90-degree banking, and a top speed of 67.4 miles an hour. This site allows you to get a feel for the ups and downs with a virtual ride on the Voyage. (You can even throw your arms up in the air and scream if you want.) Holiday World, which is celebrating their 60th anniversary this year, just completed a $13.5 million expansion including several new attractions and a new restaurant.
Prepare For The Pump
http://fuelcostcalculator.com - Planning on hitting the road for a family vacation this summer? With gas prices rising, the cost of fuel may take a bigger bite out of your travel budget. Know what to expect before you leave home by taking a quick trip to this handy site. Simply enter your start city, destination, and the make, model, and year of your vehicle. The Fuel Cost Calculator instantly estimates your round-trip fuel cost based on the current average gas price in your region of the country.
Look Ma, No Hands!
http://www.niehs.nih.gov/kids/mindread/mindread.html - No kidding — you can make a symbol appear on your computer screen without touching a single key. The National Institute of Environmental Sciences includes this mysterious game, called the Flash Mind Reader, on their site. Simply pick any two-digit number, add the two numbers together, and then subtract the total from your original two-digit number. Find the corresponding symbol on the chart provided and stare at it awhile. Like magic, this symbol will appear on the page's crystal ball. You have to see it to believe it.
Country Music Awards In Spotlight
http://acmcountry.com/content/index.php - The 41st Academy of Country Music Awards takes place at the MGM Grand (Las Vegas) on May 23 and will be broadcast live on CBS Television at 8:00 ET/PT. If you're a country fan, this site will be music to your ears. Get awards show details, check out audio and photos from the spotlight artist, view backstage snapshots, and read the latest from Country Weekly magazine – all while listening to songs from a country superstar. Sign up to be an associate member of the ACM for free and enjoy access to special publications and sweepstakes.
Short Tutorial - How To Speed Up Slow E-Mail
Granted, e-mail is much faster than snail mail. But even e-mail software can slow down if you don't keep up with maintenance on your database. Have you noticed any of these symptoms?
If this sounds familiar, it may be time to do some maintenance on the database where your messages are stored. The best maintenance you can do is to delete old messages you no longer need and then "compact" your database. To do this, follow the steps below.
Cleaning Up and Compacting Outlook Express 6.0 When Using Windows XP Home Edition
Cleaning Up and Compacting Entourage 2004 When Using Macintosh OS X
If compacting your Entourage database does not improve its performance, repeat the process. However, this time select "Rebuild Database" from the choices.
We hope you found this newsletter to be informative. It's our way of keeping you posted on the happenings here. If, however, you'd prefer not to receive these bulletins on a monthly basis, click HERE.
Thanks for your business!
Best regards,
The Homefront Reporter Team
3 Rivers Communications
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Surfer Beware - Prevent Your Computer From Being Turned Into A "Zombie"
According to recent Internet security reports, attacks by hackers on websites are getting more frequent and nasty. Many hackers looking to inflict serious harm to websites do so by remotely taking control of unsuspecting home computers and then instructing them to simultaneously send massive amounts of e-mail messages to targeted sites. This technique of attacking sites is termed "distributed denial of service" (DDOS). These controlled "zombie" computers (usually home computers like yours) flood the targeted sites with messages to the point of preventing legitimate customers from conducting transactions at the victimized sites. Often times, these attacks can even entirely disable the sites.
So how are hackers able to take control of unsuspecting home computers across the globe and turn them into "zombies" to do their dirty work? Hackers create viruses and embed them into e-mail attachments and downloadable software files. When computer users open the corrupt attachments or download these files from the Internet, their computers become infected. Once the computers are successfully infected, they are added to a network of zombie computers used to generate spam e-mail and launch attacks against targeted websites. Usually the owners of these infected computers are not even aware that their computers are a part of this clandestine activity.
As a computer user, you can do your part to help curb this criminal behavior. Be sure to install and utilize virus-scanning software, update this software on a regular basis, and scan all incoming attachments before opening them. Always resist the temptation of opening files sent as e-mail attachments from someone you don't know and only download software from reputable sites. In addition, many viruses and worms also spread through the sharing of files when using floppy disks, zip disks, and networks. Be sure to scan these files for infections as well. Remember, the ultimate responsibility of protecting your computer against worms and viruses lies with you.
HARRISON TOWN HALL MEETING - Take Our Survey
Just what does "cooperative" mean? What does 3 Rivers have planned for your telecommunication needs in the future? What are your options for high speed broadband internet? Come to the 3 Rivers Communications public meeting on April 11 in Harrison and find out the answers to these questions and any other concerns you may have.
The 3 Rivers marketing department is hitting the road with the 3 Rivers General Manager. First stop, Harrison, for a town hall-style meeting. We're looking forward to meeting cooperative members and discussing the issues that are important to you.
The meeting is Tuesday, April 11 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Harrison Public School. Every one who shows up will receive a special gift. There will also be drawings for door prizes and refreshments will be served.
3 Rivers' General Manager will be on hand to present an update on what's going on at your communications cooperative and will take any and all questions.
Mark your calendar and plan to attend the 3 Rivers Communications Town Hall meeting in Harrison.
Your Opinion Counts!
3 Rivers wants to learn about your broadband Internet experience in order to better serve your needs. Click on the link below to fill out a brief online survey. If you submit your response by April 24, you will be entered into a drawing for a $25 credit on your next 3 Rivers phone bill. The winner will be announced in this space next month.
Ask The Help Desk - When Will Microsoft Stop Supporting Windows 98?
Question: I've heard that Microsoft will soon stop supporting Windows 98. Is this true?
Answer: Yes. With the large majority of PCs now running Windows XP, the software giant has announced that it will end its extended support for all versions of the Windows 98, Windows 98 Second Edition, and Windows Millennium Edition operating systems (and their related components) effective July 11, 2006. This means no more technical support, no more incident support options, and no more security updates related to these operating systems.
If you still plan to use Windows 98 or Windows Me operating systems, existing web-based support documents will continue to be available at http://support.microsoft.com/ph/1139 for Windows 98 and http://support.microsoft.com/ph/6519 for Windows Me. However, please note that it will soon be more imperative than ever that you utilize virus-scanning software and update this software on a regular basis when using Windows 98 or Windows Me.
Great Sites To Check Out This Month
Go Fly A Kite This Month
http://nationalkitemonth.org - Go fly a kite! We mean that in a nice way. April is National Kite Month sponsored by the Kite Trade Association International and the American Kitefliers Association. Their site includes lots of links to sites that'll show you how to build your own kites. It also provides safety tips for new people to the sport, event schedules for kite-related events, a place to register your own kite event, and a detailed history of kite flying. Can you name five people who changed the course of history through kite flying? This site tells you.
Anyone Got The Correct Time?
http://timeanddate.com - How many more days until my birthday? What time is it right now in Singapore? Is my kitchen clock or my alarm clock correct? How many more days, hours, minutes, and seconds until New Year's Day 2007? This website can answer all of these important questions and more. You can also design your own "Personal World Clock" to show the current times in cities of your choice around the world. Time has never been so interesting!
Cassini Spacecraft Makes New Discoveries Of Saturn's System
http://saturn.jpl.nasa.gov/operations/index.cfm - The world continues to be intrigued by the Cassini-Huygens spacecraft mission. The Cassini spacecraft is the first to explore the Saturn system of rings and moons from orbit. In January 2005, the European Space Agency's Huygens Probe detached from Cassini and was sent to Saturn's largest moon, Titan, providing scientists with vital data. Cassini continues to make discoveries as it orbits Saturn during its four-year mission. Recent photographs revealed what scientists believe to be liquid water on another of Saturn's moons, Enceladus. Head to this site for daily updates and amazing photography.
Tim McGraw and Faith Hill's 2006 Tour Begins
http://faithhill.com - Tim McGraw and Faith Hill's Soul2Soul Tour II 2006 is on pace to be the hottest concert event of the year. Kicking off April 21st in Columbus, Ohio, many concerts have taken only minutes to sell-out. It's no wonder. This married duo has over thirty number one songs between them. For a listing of concert locations and to listen to Faith sing songs as you surf, head to her site and turn up your computer's volume.
NHL Season Heats Up In April
http://nhl.com - The action really heats up this month as the NHL's regular season schedule winds down and the play-off action begins. Check out the NHL's official site to get up-to-the-minute scores as well as complete stats and game overviews, radio and video highlights, links to your favorite NHL team's site, player interviews, and more.
Short Tutorial - How To Stop A Downloaded File While In Progress
Have you ever started to download something from the Internet and then realized after the download started that the file was a lot bigger than you anticipated and you really didn't have time to wait around for it to completely download? Well, with most modern browsers, there is a way to stop the process in the middle of the download. You can then come back later to start and finish the download when you have more time. Follow these directions to stop a file from downloading before its completion.
Stopping a File Download When Using Internet Explorer 6.0 Browser and Windows XP Home Edition:
With Internet Explorer 6.0, your only real option is to cancel the download using the CANCEL button on the download window before it finishes. If you want to restart the download, you will have to start again at the beginning.
Stopping a File Download When Using Firefox 1.0 Browser and Windows XP Home Edition and Macintosh OS X:
To use the special download features of this browser, you need to open the Downloads window.
Stopping a File Download When Using Netscape 8.1 Browser and Windows XP Home Edition:
To use the special download features of this browser, you need to open the Downloads window.
Stopping a File Download When Using Safari 2.0 Browser and Mac OS X:
To use the special download features of this browser, you need to open the Downloads window.
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text: Development started in February, 2009. Target platforms : iOS + Android Released on iOS ! [Lite version] : [Full Version] Official site : www.kineticdamage.com If you like this game, like it on Facebook too ! Game made by : Benjamin Marchand Music by : Philippe Malpuech Voice actors : Antoine Aghroum, Jean Dutelle, Marie Sergeant. Tools used : Modeling/Animation : Cinema 4D Texture Work/Design : Illustrator + Wacom Cintiq 12WX + Unity Pro / Android Pro / iOS Pro Article by Maxon, makers of Cinema 4D. //************************** Development Videos *************************// A glimpse at strategy in Kinetic Damage : Advanced AI demo + commentary (subtitles available, just click "CC" button) : Pure AI vs AI fights, + special martial art outfits : Video : Levels Sound Ambience. Video : Character Creation Video : All 8 martial arts combos. Video : AI Test (basic moves). Video : Levels Showcase (older version, captured from a Samsung Galaxy S). Video : Regular Strikes test. Background Musics link (Musical artist : Buck Bottleneck, available for freelance contracts. Contact on Facebook.) Video : Old gameplay showcase (outdated levels, outdated chars). ******* And here are some quick video references to help figure out the different martial arts : Muay Thai Ninjutsu Taekwondo Tai Chi Chuan / Qi Gong Jinn Jeet Kun Do Krav Maga Breakfighting Shaolin Kung Fu ******* Initial post from 2009 :


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| Obstetrical and Gynecological Devices; Designation of Special Control for Condom and Condom with Spermicidal Lubricant
|FDA Comment Number :
|Submitter :
|Miss. Eugerie Douge
|Date & Time:
|12/09/2005 04:12:54
|Organization :
|Miss. Eugerie Douge
|Category :
|Health Professional
|Issue Areas/Comments
| As a concerned citizen as well as a health professoinal, I am angered by
Senator Colburn's attempts to change the FDA label on condoms to suggest
that they are less effective against preventing pregnancy and preventing STI
transmission than is currently stated.
>From the CDC's website the following data can be easily obtained
demonstrating the efficacy of condoms:
"Laboratory studies have demonstrated that latex condoms provide an
essentially impermeable barrier to particles the size of STD pathogens.
Sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV Latex condoms, when used c
consistently and correctly, are highly effective in preventing transmission
of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. In addition, correct and consistent use
of latex condoms can reduce the risk of other sexually transmitted diseases
(STDs), including discharge and genital ulcer diseases. While the effect of
condoms in preventing human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is unknown,
condom use has been associated with a lower rate of cervical cancer, an
HPV-associated disease."
It is disturbing that the FDA would allow social conservative politics, or
any politics at all, to influence FDA policy and guidelines. This
demonstrates a serious lack of commitment to the health and safety of all
Americans. Scientific fact and evidence-based medicine should be the only
influence the FDA heeds when making decisions. The FDA would be misleading
and misinforming millions of Americans if the label is changed to reflect
Sen. Colburn's socially conservative agenda. The FDA cannot put the health
and lives of millions of Americans at risk. The fact that the FDA is even
considering a label change demonstrates a serious failure to prioritize the
health and safety of Americans over politics.


text:
4 Zimmerman Jurors: B37 Doesn't Speak for Us
(NEWSER) – Four of the six jurors who acquitted George Zimmerman want the world to know that the juror who went public doesn't speak for them. We "understand there is a great deal of interest in this case. But we ask you to remember that we are not public officials and we did not invite this type of attention into our lives," the jurors said in a statement issued soon after the second part of a two-part interview with Juror B37 aired on CNN. "We also wish to point out that the opinions of Juror B37 ... were her own and not in any way representative" of the others, they said. The sixth juror, the only minority member on the panel, did not sign the statement, reports the Orlando Sentinel.


text:
Quote: ...but I also have to thank him for steering me into the right way. The path which I should've pursued. It's like I took a wrong turn somewhere and he put me into the right course.
Quote: But at the same time, I hope he burns in hell, and rots for all eternity
Quote:By yon bonny bang and by yon bonny brae.... %jst
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text:
2014 N.O. Bowl To Move To A.M.
The New Orleans Bowl will move to the morning this year.
The game will kick off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 20 and will feature teams from the Sun Belt and Mountain West conferences. The game will be played in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome and will air on ESPN.
For this year's game, the Mountain West Conference will replace Conference USA as the opponent to the Sun Belt representative. Officials say the matchup between Sun Belt Conference and Mountain West will expose the game, hospitality and entertainment of New Orleans to a new geographical audience of fans.
"We are pleased to again be associated with the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl," said Mountain West Commissioner Craig Thompson.
"The City of New Orleans is a premier postseason destination, and the Mountain West has a great history in the bowl, with Colorado State's participation in the inaugural 2001 game and San Diego State's 2011 appearance," Thompson said. "We look forward to sending another high-quality representative as a culmination to the 2014 college football season."
The game, in it's 14th year, generates an estimated economic impact exceeding $25 million annually.


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Range Map
Peregrines are in the family Falconidae that includes the falcons and caracaras. The genus Falco has 38 species of falcons. Peregrines are distributed worldwide but nest mostly in arctic and temperate regions. Three North American subspecies are recognized. The tundra race (tundrius) is highly migratory and found from coast to coast. The Peale's peregrine (pealei) nests from coastal Alaska down the coast to Washington. Continental peregrines (anatum) were extirpated from eastern North America before 1970, but after reintroduction efforts, they are once again found across the continent.
Peregrines typically require mountain crags and cliffs for nesting. Often these overlook river valleys or marine habitats. They prefer long cliffs with several ledges where access is difficult for man and other potential sources of disturbance. Open areas are required for hunting avian prey. Peregrines are found in most major North American cities, as skyscrapers mimic their preferred cliff habitats.
Peregrines are sleek-bodied, crow-sized raptors with long pointed wings. Weights range from 1-2.5 pounds (.45-1.13 kg) with females considerably larger than males. There is racial variation with Peale's being the largest and darkest and the tundra race the smallest. Peregrines appear hooded.
Adults have grayish backs with a light upper breast and dark barring on the lower breast. Juveniles are browner and heavily streaked below. Sexes are similar in plumage. The bare skin of the feet, cere and eye ring is yellow in adults and light blue in the young birds.
LUsually less than 20 years in captivity, rarely that long in the wild.
In the wild: They feed almost exclusively on birds which are taken in midair while making spectacular vertical dives called stoops. Shorebirds are a favorite, although urban peregrines feast on pigeons. Rarely mammals are taken, and young birds will go after large flying insects.
At the zoo: Coturnix quail.
Peregrines form long-term pair bonds and are highly protective of their nesting territory, which they use year after year. They produce one clutch per year, but will occasionally re-lay if the nest fails early in the cycle. Three to five reddish blotched cream colored eggs are laid in a scrape or depression on a cliff ledge. Although the female does most of the incubation, both parents take part for an average of 33-35 days. Many peregrines use platform nestboxes that have been provided on buildings and other man-made structures. Rarely, abandoned tree nests of other birds are used.
The female does the majority of brooding of the nestlings. The young become mobile in the nest at 28 days, and usually fledge within 40 days. After the youngsters leave the nest, they continue to receive parental care, as they are taught how to catch their own food. This continues for at least two months, and in migratory populations, sometimes will continue after the family departs southward. Some peregrines will remain in their nesting territory year-round, although northern populations migrate south. Tundra peregrines may travel from the arctic to South America and back each year.
Peregrines are the best known of all the falcons due to their wide range as well as their extraordinarily spectacular stooping ability. Incredible speed, maneuverability and strength combine to make them the embodiment of the ultimate avian predator. Peregrines will identify prey from distances up to one mile away. After choosing a potential victim, they will occasionally take it by direct attack, or more commonly, rise high above and dive or stoop at the bird that they wish to kill. Many people have been skeptical at the estimated speeds for these spectacular stoops. In recent years radar guns have been used to measure the speed of a diving bird at well in excess of 200 mph (320 kph)! Their quarry is almost always a bird and it is captured in midair. A notch on the upper beak known as the tomial tooth is used by all falcons, including peregrines, to severe the spinal column of injured victims. Peregrines sometimes consume smaller prey species in flight after dispatching them, particularly during migration.
A peregrine falcon can be seen at the zoo's Raptor Center. Other birds of prey that can be viewed at the Raptor Center include the bald eagle, Harris's hawk, gyrfalcon, turkey vulture as well as spectacled and barred owls.
Peregrine falcons were listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. Although never that abundant as breeding birds in the continental United States, the population went into a nose-dive beginning in the late 1940s. By the mid-1960s nesting populations had been eliminated east of the Mississippi River. Western populations were reduced by up to 90%. Scientists investigating the decline found very high concentrations of the pesticide DDT and its by-products in their tissues. Because they fed on birds, many of which ate insects, peregrines received a mega-dose due to bioaccumulation of DDT and its residues up the food chain. The chemicals interfered with calcium deposition on their eggs, which failed to hatch. Illegal shooting, collisions with man-made objects, and egg and chick collection also impacted populations, but none of these compared with the drastic effects of pesticides. DDT was banned for usage in North America in 1972, and coupled with protection under the ESA and captive reintroduction efforts, these magnificent birds began to recover. In 1984, the tundra subspecies was downgraded to threatened status, and by the mid-1990s populations of American peregrine falcons began to approach the recovery goals that were set when they were listed. They were delisted in August 1999. They may even exceed historical levels here in the Northwest, as human related changes have resulted in more open space, which provides suitable foraging habitat for these falcons. The peregrine falcon continues to be listed on Appendix 1 by CITIES.
Humans need raptors. Here are only a few of the benefits raptors provide:
Efforts to save threatened and endangered raptors require cooperation and support at international, national, regional and individual levels. You can help in this cause. Join and become active in Woodland Park Zoo and other conservation organizations. Recycle forest products. Eliminate or reduce pesticide use. Support breeding programs for endangered birds of prey at zoos and other animal care organizations. Let your elected representatives know your views about the conservation of migratory birds and their wild habitats.
Contact Woodland Park Zoo at email@example.com to find ways you can support conservation programs at the zoo. Discover more about raptors by contacting the Peregrine Fund at their Web site www.peregrinefund.org. Learn other ways you can help conserve wildlife and their habitats by visiting our How You Can Help page.
Johnsgard, Paul A. 1990. Hawks, Eagles, and Falcons of North America. Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC. 403 p.
Burnie, David. 1988. Bird (Eyewitness Books). Alfred A. Knopf, Inc., New York, NY. 64 p.
Zoobooks. 1986. Birds of Prey. Wildlife Education, Ltd., San Diego, CA. 16 p.
Phylum: Chordata Class: Aves Order: Falconiformes Family: Falconidae Genus: Falco Species: F. peregrinus
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text: By Mathew SkinnerThe Trayvon Martin story is tragic for many reasons. We see one of them in what his death has again brought to the surface: deeply rooted convictions that the system is flawed. We have a hard time trusting the criminal-justice processes in particular cases when the system-wide injustices remain so persistent.As Christians move into the week that most defines our faith, a week of remembering and reliving Jesus' death and resurrection, this idea of a broken system p … [Read more...]


text:
Like the rest of the country, I've been following the Trayvon Martin case and trying to make sense of it all. And like everyone else, I initially made some pre-judgments of my own based on the small bit of information fed to me through the mainstream media, which has been grossly misleading in its portrayal of both Martin and Zimmerman. Once again, the media has manipulated our emotions and painted a picture of the worst kind, intentionally meant to heighten racial tensions during this already racially hostile political season. The implication of racism is so powerful, that the race baiters and political predators, like Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton, are using Martin's death for political gain. Even the President himself—Obama—couldn't resist the temptation to invoke race in his analysis of the Trayvon Martin and George Zimmerman incident, citing that "If I had a son, HE WOULD LOOK LIKE Trayvon."
If only the media could have its day in court because it is responsible for continually inciting racism among both blacks and whites. On one hand, the mainstream media continually portrays blacks as violent criminals, evoking fear and distrust of black people among white Americans. On the other hand, the media often depicts blacks as victims of white racist police brutality, of course inciting anger, hostility, and distrust of white people and police among blacks. We know all blacks are not violent criminals and all white police are not racist, but these stories, whether they be true or not, make for the best news and biggest television and newspaper ratings. I say, shame on the media for its part in hindering race relations in America, and shame on us for allowing the media to play on our worst fears for profit.
Concerning the death of Trayvon Martin, I believe that this story is tragic for all involved. Martin's mother and father have lost their son to violence, and Zimmerman took a human life. The crossing paths of George Zimmerman and Trayvon Martin have changed many lives forever. Because of this senseless tragedy, a community is heartbroken and people all over the country are divided on this issue. I grieve with the mother of Martin, and the rest of Martin's family and friends. I hope and pray that they find peace, and their hearts are comforted as they seek answers to all of their questions.
As well, I hope and pray that Zimmerman is not unfairly tried in the court of public opinion, and that for his sake and for all's sake that truth and justice prevails—whatever that truth may be. I hope and pray that Zimmerman's friends, his parents, his wife and his children are safe, regardless of the outcome of this debacle; they have already become targets of rage, as organizations such as the New Black Panthers have given a $10, 000 dollar incentive for serious harm to come to Zimmerman and his family when they put out a bounty on "the man who shot Trayvon Martin"—George Zimmerman.
Yet, this tragedy is not unlike any other. Trayvon Martin's die every day! Thanks to organizations like Planned Parenthood, many Trayvon Martin's are killed right in their mother's womb at the hands of abortion doctors in clinics all over America. As of yet, no arrests have been made. Many Trayvon Martins are killed in the streets from stray bullets as a result of gang wars. No arrests. Many senseless deaths and killings of black, white, brown, and yellow Trayvon Martin's every day. To blacks, are we so sensitive towards race and desensitized to violence that only the perception of racism can motivate us to march against violence? It seems so.
This case is still being investigated and facts are coming out day by day. Until Zimmerman's day in court, I pray that calm heads prevail. I pray for the healing of our nation and call on the violence to stop. Let us not only be outraged at the death of Trayvon Martin, but every life that is senselessly taken. From the womb to the tomb, every life is precious.


text:
Product Reference: 39172
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View and action incoming calls and messages
The Melkco Face Cover is aptly named as it includes a cut out which allows you to view incoming calls and messages at a glance through the front cover as well as being able to receive a call without having to open the front of the case.
Durable construction offers premium protection for your screen
Made from high quality leather, this flip cover will keep your Samsung Galaxy S4 screen looking good as new. The cover is tough enough to withstand day-to-day punishment without blemishing, so both your phone and cover will stay looking sharp for longer


text:
Hall and Oates
- Daryl Hall
- John Oates
Back in 1984, the RIAA declared that Daryl Hall and John Oates were the most successful duo in rock history.
Statistically, they had surpassed such dynamic duos as the Everly Brothers and the Righteous Brothers. They've held onto this title over the ensuing 30 years. But that is just one element in a much deeper, richer tale of triumphs (and occasional travails) for this pair from Philadelphia.
For starters, they rank among the most long-lived acts of the rock era. Their friendship dates back to 1967, and initial stabs at collaboration began shortly thereafter, although their first album wouldn't appear untill 1972. Their reccording career encompassed 18 studio albums, plus consert sets, complications and solo work. Throughout the decades, their most notable musical achievement – one that is as momentous as it is underappreciated – has been a consistant ability to find the sweet spot between rock, soul and pop. Their success has largely been driven by their voices. Hall's supple, rangy tenor is among the most soulful sounds in the pop pantheon. Oates' duskier lower register offers its own complementary delights. When they harmonize, out come angelic echoes of doo-wop, Philly soul and Motown – three defining influences on the duo from early boyhood to the present day. During the course of a lengthy, episodic career, they have kept faith with the music that initially turned them on, while also bringing their own creativity and drive to the mix. The result is a hit-filled, yet enticingly eclectic, experimental life in music.
Make no mistake: Daryl Hall and John Oates recorded and relaped brushels of hit singles: 29 Top 40 hits from 1976 to 1990. Most made the Top 10, and a half-dozen reached Number One. If you were there, you'll recall that Hall and Oates were virtually always within earshot on the radio (AM or FM), jukebox or dance floor. Even though those years are behind them, their songs continue to linger in whatever region of the brain processes and stories musical hooks. Their most indelible ear-wigs include the ethereal chorus of "I Can't Go for That (No Can Do);" the percolating beat and chiming harmonies of "Kiss on My List;" the weightless rythmic flow and play of voices in "Maneater;" and plangent, soul-searching refrain of "She's Gone." The last of these is one of the ultimate breakup songs of all time. It encapsulates the duo's musical strengths, from its compelling delivery to its crescendoing arrangment. "We were both going through similare situations with women," noted Hall. "We pooled our experiences and made [them] into one." Added Oates: "We literally wrote the song in the space of time it took to get from the beginning to the end." In its vocal exchanges, you can hear the pair's intuitive chemistry, and obvious echoes of their musical upbringing in Philadelphia.
No doubt some Hall and Oates tune is specially hardwired into your own neural circuitry. A personal favorite is "Do What You Want, Be Who You Are." Although it barely cracked the Top 40 in 1976, the song captures Hall's most impassioned lead vocal, bolstered by formidable harmonies. Listen to Hall's compelling melisma as he stretches the word are into a rainbow of syllables. Lyrically, it's a straightforwardof self-reliance on how to approach music and life. It's no surprise the duo selected the song's title as the name of their career-spanning 2009 box set. In a way, those words say it all. Like the title of their third album, Hall and Oates were "war babies."
Hall was born Daryl Hohl in Cedarville, Pennsylvania, in 1946, while Oates, born in New York City in 1948, arrived in the Philly suburbs as a kid. Both gravitated to music early in their lives. By their high school years, each was fronting a band: Hall was in the Temptones, and Oates was in the Masters. These were vocal-oriented soul/R&B groups, taking their musical cues from a hometown scene in which the Temptations were, according to the duo, "our Beatles." Hall, in fact, befriended the Temptations, ingratiating himself to the point where he became an eager pupil and gofer whenever the Motown superstars played Philly's legendary Uptown Theater. He also gravitated to the scene that was then coalescing around Kenny Gamble, Leon Huff, and Thom Bell, and which would achieve fruition as that distinctive subgenre known as Philadelphia soul. The schoolmates and contemporaries of Hall and Oates include future members of the Delfonics, the Intruders, the Trammps, and the Stylistics.
One night in 1967, the Temptones and the Masters were on a bill headlined by the Five Stairsteps at Philadelphia's Adelphi Ballroom. Gunfire broke out, and, while fleeing the melee that ensued, Hall and Oates made each other's acquaintaince. Hall subsequently impressed Oates by introducing him to members of the Temptations at an Uptown Theater show. Both would operate in and around the nascent Philly soul scene during the mid-to-late 60, all the while nurturing their friendship and collaborating casually. "We gravitated torward each other," Oates told writer Gillian Gaar in 2005. "We had a lot of similarities in our talent. And we were both wanting to go somewhere." In addition to that foundation of influences – doo-wop, Motown, Curtis Mayfield, and homegrown Philly soul – the duo drew from musical forms as they forged their own direction. Oates had one foot in the folk and bluegrass scene, while Hall studied classical forms as a music student at Temple University. They found common ground in burgeoning singer/songwriter scene of the early 70s. Initially calling themselves Whole Oates, a play on their surnames, they were signed to Atlantic Records after a November 1971 audition before producer Arif Mardin and others at the label. Their first batch of albums, commencing with Whole Oates in 1972, reflected a a mercurial musical temperament, variously incorporating elements of acoustic music, progressive rock, forward-thinking pop soul, and even knowing glances at glam, punk and disco. Being both eclectic and colorblind, they sometimes bristled when the term "blue-eyed soul" was applied to their music. "The essence of soul transcends blackness or whiteness," Hall noted in a 1977 Rolling Stones interview.
From the beginning, Hall was principally a keyboardist and Oates a guitarist, though each is a multi-instrumentalist. As songwriters, they have worked alone, with each other, and with outside collaborators. Hall assumes the majority of the lead vocals, although Oates has claimed his share; both provide everpresent harmonies and background parts. Something about the two of them together yields a logic-defying magic, though it's not easy to pinpoint just why their chemistry works so well. "It's the sound that we create, however we create it, through singing, through playing," Hall vouched to Goldmine interviewer Ken Sharp in 1998.
Daryl Hall and John Oates' 70s output yielded some sizable hits as well as some inexplicable misses. Everything changed with the recording of their ninth studio album,Voices. Released in 1980, it was notable for being their first self-production. That's not to diminish the work of their prior producers, by any means. Atlantic's great Arif Mardin set them on their path and clarified their strengths with his work on their much-admired second album, 1973's Abandoned Luncheonette. Todd Rundgren supervised 1974's War Babies, which exhibited a fearless artistry they'd draw from throughout their career. Guitarist/producer Chris Bond brought Hall and Oates their first taste of pop-charting stardom with "Sara Smile" (Number Seven), and "Rich Girl" (Number One), along with the popular albums – Daryl Hall and John Oates (1975) and Bigger Than Both of Us (1976) – they came from. Early in his career, David Foster oversaw two of Hall and Oates' most adventurous recordings: 1978's Along the Red Ledge (a hard-core fan's favorite) and 1979's urban-minded X-Static (whose edgy dance-rock symbiosis was ahead of its time). By the time they convened to make Voices, the hits had slowed to a relative trickle. Hall and Oates had nothing to lose by doing it their way, and felt ready and capable of assuming the creative reins.
The duo returned their focus to the sound of singing. They acknowledged as much by writing "Diddy Doo Wop (I Hear the Voices)," an affectionate nod to their roots, and by reprising "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'," originally a vocal tour de force for the Righteous Brothers. Voices yielded three self-penned hits on the pop charts: "Kiss on My List" (Number One), "You Make My Dreams" (Number Five), and "How Does It Feel to Be Back" (Number 30). Their version of "Lovin' Feelin'" made it to Number 12. "It was the easiest record, the most positive record we ever made," Hall told biographer Nick Tosches in 1984. He further hailed it as "the beginning of the real Hall and Oates. Everything before this was just practice. This was where we figured out how to put rock and soul together." While Hall underestimated the hybrid vigor of the duo's previous work, his point was well taken. The pivotal success of Voices returned them to the top. Only this time, they'd stay there, experiencing a half-decade of what can only be called sustained pop chart domination.
Building on Voices' groundwork, Hall and Oates' career shifted into overdrive. Subsequent recordings evinced a stylistic savvy that was well-synchronized to zestful, rhythmic blueprint of the new wave–slanted 80s. Ironically, in both sound and spirit, this Brave New World of danceable 80s pop really wasn't so far removed from the Motown and Philly soul milieu on which they'd cut their teeth. Still, there were obvious differences between the 60s (in which R&B acts played for smartly dressed dancing teens) and the 80s. Tapping into the huge demographic opened up by MTV, Hall and Oates maneuvered adroitly in the video realm. Technology brought synthesizers and comtemporary production approaches to their recordings. Hall and Oates were also now playing arenas and stadiums around the world. The numbers tell the story. From 1980 to 1985, they enjoyed a steady run of 17 Top 40 hits, five of which topped the charts. Four consecutive albums, from Voices through 1984's Big Bam Boom, would be certified platinum or multiplatinum. During this period, the Hall and Oates band – consisting of guitarist G.E. Smith, bassist T-Bone Wolk, saxophonist Charlie DeChant, and drummer Micky Curry – gelled into a definitively tight live unit. Wolk served as the glue that held it all together, and continued to work with Hall and Oates until his untimely death from a heart attack in 2010. In 1985, Hall and Oates' fame and popularity peaked.
Several events stamped a glittering exclamation point on a remarkable run. In January, Hall and Oates won a "Favorite Band" at the American Music Awards for the third consecutive year. Also in January, they participated in the recording of "We Are the World," the star-studded charity single credited to USA for Africa. They were asked to perform at the May 1985 reopening of Harlem's legendary Apollo Theatre. The duo opted to make the evening even more special by recruting their friends and former Temptations David Ruffin and Eddie Kendrick to join them onstage. The Temps medley they performed becaome a Top 20 single. Hall subsequently described that night as the "most defining moment in my musical career." On July 13, they appeared on the televised Live Aid concert, viewed worldwide by a billion people, and also backed by Mick Jagger. After all that, Hall and Oates took a well-earned hiatus. Reemerging in 1988, they finished the decade with two albums, ooh yeah! (1988) and Change of Season (1990). The former included "Everything Your Heart Desires," a Number Three pop hit, and their last to make the Top 10. Thereafter, the pace slowed considerably, though the albums that periodically surfaced – notably, Marigold Sky (1997) and Do It for Love (2003) – never failed to rekindle the old magic.
Meanwhile, both men focused on family life and individual projects. In 2007, Hall launched the popular monthly Web show, Live from Daryl's House, which finds him sitting in with a variety of guests ranging from classic rockers to indie acts. Oates has blossomed into a prolific solo artist, often harking back to his roots in folk and blues. The two still tour and record together, as undiminished demand for their songs and those voices. Break up? No can do. One final point. The proper name of the act is Daryl Hall and John Oates. You'd actually be more correct inserting a slash in place of the "and," or omitting the punctuation entierly like this: Daryl Hall John Oates. Check out their records: you won't find "Hall & Oates" listed as such. The moniker may be a convenient shorthand and popular perception, but it is technically incorrect. The way they prefer to present their names stresses the unique nature of their partnership: two individuals. Daryl Hall. John Oates. In business for going on 50 years. – Parke Puterbaugh


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Investigation Continues In Two Deaths In Jonesville
WCBD-TV: News, Weather, and Sports for Charleston, SC
From our News Partners at WCBD-TV:
Autopsies will be performed Tuesday morning on the bodies of two people that were found in a home in Jonesville.
Union County Sheriff David Taylor says there were wounds on the bodies, but doesn't know what led to their deaths.
Taylor says the autopsies are scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m.
Reporting by Graeme Moore
The Union County Sheriff's Office is investigating the discovery of two bodies at a home near Jonesville.
Union County Sheriff David Taylor says that the body of a man and woman were found inside a home off of Furman Fendley Highway at 8:42 p.m. Monday night. According to Taylor, a neighbor had walked by the home a couple of times during the day and noticed the front door of the home was open. Out of concern, the neighbor called 911 for a welfare check and deputies responded.
Deputies tried to access to the bodies, but were unable to due to a large number of overprotective dogs. Animal Control officers were dispatched to the scene to help assist deputies with removing the dogs.
Taylor said it is too early in the process to determine how the people died. The deaths are being classified as suspicious and the State Law Enforcement Division has been called to assist with the investigation.


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This is the Roomba 660 specially designed to clean carpets and floors while circumventing the pets' food and water bowls. Exclusively from Hammacher Schlemmer, Roomba comes with a virtual barrier that sets up near pet bowls and creates a 20"-diameter circle through which Roomba will not pass, preventing the robotic vacuum from bumping and spilling water and pet food. Made by iRobot, developers of tactical reconnaissance robots for the U.S. military, Roomba 660 has dual, counter-rotating brushes that reach deep into carpet fibers and quickly remove pet hair and dander. Roomba analyzes the dimensions of a room, determines the optimal cleaning path, and navigates autonomously to clean the floor. Integrated sensors detect areas of high dirt concentration, prompting Roomba to spend more time cleaning these locations. The cleaning head automatically adjusts to accommodate carpets or hard floors and dual air filters ensure only clean air is recycled. It can be scheduled to automatically clean up to seven times per week or prompted to spot clean. Virtual barrier requires two C batteries. Only available for delivery in the U.S. and Canada. 13 1/2" Diam. x 3 3/4" H. (8 lbs.)
"Excellent product! Scheduling feature is wonderful...I wake up every morning to freshly vacuumed floors!" - C, Texas
Lifetime Guarantee
The Pet Bowl Circumventing Roomba 660 comes with The Hammacher Schlemmer Lifetime Guarantee. If this product ever disappoints you, for any reason, you may return your Hammacher Schlemmer purchase for exchange, credit, or refund.
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(based on 27 reviews)
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(8 of 8 customers found this review helpful)
Love my new Roomba
By KC
from Bountiful, UT
My previous Rombas were all series 400. This 660 is quieter, picks up more fur and dirt. It is definitely a step up. The run time is long enough to clean 4-5 rooms. I have used the programmer a couple of times just to test it, but usually I am home so I can start it whenever I want. With 2 dogs and 2 cats, running my Roomba every day or two is a must. Fur always gets wrapped around the rotating side brush and the yellow brush bearings. Both are easy to clean and well worth the effort. I hope this one lasts longer than the 400 series robots. None of them lasted the full one year on the warranty. Thank goodness I bought this at Hammacher Schlemmer. Their lifetime guarangee is priceless. Now I just have to come up with a good name for my new housekeepper.
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
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(4 of 4 customers found this review helpful)
Great automatic vaccum
By Always planning to clean
from Roswell, GA
Love this Roomba - I let it run when I'm not home bc it is a little loud - but worth it! Love the pet bowl spill preventer and it really picks up dirt we didn't even know was there. It transitions easily from the area rug and to the hardwoods. Customer service from H&S exceptional as usual.
Can't live without it
By Chefette
from Key Largo, Fl.
I use it to clean wood, tile, and carpeted floors.I can start it from its dock, walk away and it will clean the floor and go back to its dock. It does a great job.It gets expensive to replace a battery every two years.
It does the job!
By Boxplayer
from Upper Bucks Co, PA
I've had 3 Pet Roombas, and this is the best one yet. It cleans up well after my 2 shaggy dogs and messy parrot. Also, thanks to H-S for their lifetime warranty. It's made all the difference.
By Julia
from Oxford, NC
This product is worth every penny...your house will stay 110% cleaner!
(3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)
Robotic Vacuum is the best
By James
from Houston, Texas
Fast, quiet, good job cleaning. Goes under the couch and beds (my last cleaner did not go under things) This is my third cleaner and by far the best. Love the product.
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
I <3 My Roomba!
By CSM
from Michigan
Excellent product! Scheduling feature is wonderful...I wake up every morning to freshly vacuumed floors!
I LOVE my Roomba!
By ladyrae3
from Toronto, ON
With the busy schedule I have it's fantastic to be able to "vacuum" while I'm not even home! I can set up the program to be working while I'm doing the groceries. Even if I'm home - and I live in a very small condo - we can co-exist while each performing different chores. :-) Too bad I still have to dust. Would highly recommend this product as it picks up the hairs of both of my cats. Under the bed has never been cleaner!
my grandchildren named him Phillipe!
By choosy shopper
from N. Salt Lake, Utah
starts up when it is suppose to and after cleaning my house goes right back to where it started from...wonderful product. I clean the upstairs and downstairs of my house. It has a cliff sensor so not a worry to let it loose upstairs and I carry it downstairs to clean the downstairs.
Wouldn't want to be without it!
By Sis
from Kerrville, Tx
Absolutely love my Roomba. Wouldn't want to be without it. Would only purchase from Hammacher Schlemmer due to their guarantee.
COPYRIGHT © 2017 HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER & COMPANY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. W105147 E. 57th ST • NEW YORK, NY • 10022 • 1-800-_321-1484


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Summit Bechtel Reserve® Tinker Knife – Black$29.99Always be prepared for any challenge on all your adventures. This Tinker has been specially designed for the Boy Scouts of America with The Summit logo. Knife includes large blade, small blade, screwdriver, reamer, key ring, tweezers, and toothpick. Learn More
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Helle GT Knife$155.00An excellent choice for those who like a fairly big knife with a guard, and the lack of pommel and use of aluminum for the guard keeps the weight down. Blade is made of triple-laminated stainless steel. Knife comes with a snap-style leather sheath. Learn More


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The receptionist at a well-known architectural office in Chicago answers the phone with a friendly "Nagle Hartray." But the proper name—Nagle Hartray Danker Kagan McKay Penney Architects—rolls off the tongue like that of a corporate law firm, offering a clue to its size and ambitions. The architects, who last year had billings of $4 million, specialize in selective types of multifamily housing. For the past decade, the office roster has held steady at 27 employees. But that's about to change. "We have a mature staff," says partner Don McKay, AIA. "We'd like to grow from where we are now to give them continued opportunities."
By contrast, nine is the magic number of employees for Jim Morter, FAIA. The Vail, Colo., architect has his $1.5 million-a-year firm right where he wants it. Twice in his 32 years in business designing luxury homes for the jet set, he's had 16 people and two partners on payroll. But he didn't like it. "I've had excellent people as partners," Morter says. "But I tend to be more hands-on with everything that goes out of the office. When it got to be different principals running different projects that I didn't have much involvement with, I felt uncomfortable." In retrospect, the question for his practice became: How big is too big?
Residential architects have profoundly different ways of thinking about their businesses—and profoundly different kinds of practices. Starting out, the focus is simply on making a living. But sooner or later everyone confronts the question of whether to grow, and what size best fits the firm's mind-set and market niche. And although the business school approach to expansion is to follow a formal plan, in reality growth is also organic, a response to the market and the evolving talents of staff.
In the quest for bigger and better things, the most difficult step may be the first one. For a lone architect, taking on a second person represents a radical shift to being the boss and, with it, a tax obligation. "If an architect hires an employee he'll spend $50,000 plus provide benefits and computer equipment," says Mark Zweig, president and CEO of ZweigWhite, Natick, Mass., a business consulting firm for architects and engineers. "It costs maybe $75,000 to do all that. Most architects just want to consume the income that comes in—that's the biggest barrier to growth. The more you take out for consumption, the less you have to spend on the things that make you grow."
Once architects do decide to invest in an enterprise that has a life beyond them, the second classic plateau occurs when they employ 10 to 12 people, according to Peter Piven, FAIA, The Coxe Group, Philadelphia. At that point a principal starts to feel stretched. There's not enough time to meet client and staff needs, and he or she will start looking for a partner. "You do find firms that grow without adding principals as they add staff," he says, "but it's very unusual, and they probably have people who act like principals even if they're not."
In the 20- to 30-employee range, a firm starts to become more structured, Piven says, requiring a middle layer of management and certainly someone who looks after marketing full time. Another important break occurs at roughly 50 employees. Then the office is large enough to warrant a full-time operations manager or the equivalent of several principals sharing the load of design, human resources, financial management, and business development.
creating value Even in the earliest stages of growth, Piven recommends jotting down a strategic plan. "The old joke applies: It's hard to know if you're moving toward your objectives if you haven't clearly identified them," he says. Architects contemplating their first hires should do a budget based on revenues and operating costs plus the projected salaries. The classic rule of thumb—that a practice needs to generate $100,000 in net revenues per employee (gross revenue less direct expenses such as consultant fees)—still holds true, though it could be more or less depending on the job position and the nature of the practice.
Every dollar paid in salary, Piven says, will cost a young firm another 25 cents in benefits. (For tenured firms with substantial profit and benefit plans, the ratio is closer to 40 percent.) "You have to make a qualitative decision about whether it makes more sense to keep struggling to do the work yourself or hire a person to help you," says Piven. "I like to use the notion of highest and best use; people are more satisfied when they function that way. You make the change when your own time is being better spent at producing value for the firm—typically marketing, management, and front-end project leadership."
Zweig puts another question to his clients: How will you attract top-notch talent? "There has to be a reason for someone to want to join," he says. "Most small firms are poorly managed, and often owners can't separate their personal life from their business life. Have you thought about why someone good would want to work there?"
At Morter Architects, part of the answer lies in its human scale, sociability, and careful design. Morter hires talented generalists who manage their own projects from A to Z. No one is stuck cranking out construction drawings. "Everyone is an architect with a capital A," he says. "We tend to work linearly instead of compartmentalizing things. I like the continuity of having people involved from programming through post construction. It's more fun, and we have no problem with working for each other on projects."
a walkable firm Like the old-fashioned small towns that are most vibrant when people can walk around to do their errands, firms of 10 to 20 are walkable companies. They're big enough to generate multiple large jobs but not so big that the managers are cut off from their clients, isolated in a climate-controlled world of meetings. That was the fate Daniel Wheeler, FAIA, and Larry Kearns, AIA, hoped to avoid when they left Skidmore, Owings & Merrill to launch their Chicago firm in 1987. Since then, they've grown at a rate of one employee per year, literally one person at a time, and added two other principals—Mark Weber and Thomas Bader.
In a studio-oriented practice that's two-thirds residential and one-third institutional, the partners and their 11 employees run 20 to 30 jobs simultaneously. "What we've attempted to do is keep a very flat organization, so each one of our principals and our architects is responsible for a project from absolute beginning to absolute end," Wheeler says. "It also helps to have an office that's not so big that we can't be in one single room for design critiques. That would be a bad thing, in our opinion."
Whereas an office with just a few architects can be quite lonely, being surrounded by a diverse group of people fills the creative well. Currently on Wheeler Kearns' roster are architects from Germany, Japan, Brazil, and Jamaica, along with people who've studied philosophy and literature. "We're keen on making sure there's a variety of backgrounds and voices," Wheeler says. "It helps spread the social understanding that the office has." Because of their careful hiring and deliberate pace of growth, the partners have never had to lay off an employee. Three of the four who have left the firm resigned because of family circumstances; the other quit architecture altogether.
Managers of mid-sized architecture firms know numbers, and they understand what makes their companies tick. And while natural evolution is part of the picture, it's no substitute for practical vision. That's why San Diego architect Brad Burke, the founder of Studio E Architects, has always navigated on paper. At 15 employees, two partners, and $2 million in annual revenues, he's dead-on the plan he envisioned in 1986. Back then, Burke spelled out the types of residential projects and clients he wanted to take on and the goals for his staff and work environment. "It's not like I followed it exactly," Burke says, "but the fact that I thought about it ahead of time and wrote it down was a great help."
Like Wheeler Kearns, Studio E has grown patiently, one person per year on average. Often that meant turning down attractive work while the firm established a solid base in the community. "A fundamental principle from day one was that unless we knew we could support someone full time for the foreseeable future, we'd not hire someone," he says. "I think we've been successful by trying to stay close knit, keeping a staff that's here for the long haul." Still, offices that don't bulk up to do bigger projects will continue to do the same work year after year. Burke's incremental approach to growth, slowly filling his coffer with the kinds of people he wanted to keep, helped ensure that when the time came to shore up the company at the next level, there would be partners-in-waiting. For Studio E, that point came 10 years down the road, when Burke promoted long-time employees Eric Naslund and John Sheehan.
A two-year and a 10-year plan, which get tweaked at the annual staff retreat, keep the firm on course. Now that Studio E has hit its goal, Burke is thinking of restructuring at the principal level to grow a little more. He says it would mean bringing in a specialized person to mind the store—a task that the partners divvy up now—so they can stay involved in projects. "We want to be positioned in the market to take on some large five-story mixed-use urban development and even do design work on larger projects than that," Burke says. "But we don't want to get so large that we feel we've got to feed the machine to keep everyone here."
sustainable practices That's the balance firms of all sizes try to achieve. The key to hiring on an even keel is to maintain a smaller workload when it could be larger and to work more efficiently when things are busy. When Studio E's work pace picks up, Burke offers overtime. "Nobody is salaried," he says, "We pay for every hour they work. If it seems like a year-plus crunch, we'll go and hire someone."
In a crisis, many firms get creative, relying on a network of independent architects who are willing to help out. "We have some fabulous people we can bring in and work with on a project; we develop those relationships," says Julie Snow, FAIA, who employs 12 people at Julie Snow Architects, Minneapolis. "It suits people who can't quite support a practice because they're teaching at the University of Minnesota. We've used several other people as a stopgap who are super independent and don't want to be part of a firm. It's a huge asset." Much of her work is on multifamily projects that have a compressed time frame.
"You learn to work efficiently, and you make sure that young people coming in are mentored and fit well for the long haul," she says. "Everyone learns everyone else's skill set, so nobody feels like they're drawing in the dark."
Only once has Wheeler Kearns hired help on contract. Rather, the partners politely put clients on a waiting list. And they use summer interns for tasks that fall by the wayside when the office is racing deadlines. But as methodical as the firm's growth has been, the decision to add employees is also intuitive. "It's a matter of having the emotional confidence that you can handle more work and stretch your firm that much farther," he says. "I think people enjoy working with other people and other backgrounds, and that's the ultimate reason we want to hire people. If we see someone who looks like they'll enrich the work we do, we try to hire that person. The next year when we're looking at a mountain of work, it could be a great mesh."
a bigger sand box That is precisely how Nagel Hartray has swelled to its current size of 27: by slowly investing in gifted staff. The partners gauge the market by talking to other architecture firms. They hire as a last resort and ride out the dips, so that when there's a lot of work, they have good people to do it. Growth has resulted from the contacts they've made doing different projects, one thing leading to another. In the firm's early days, kitchen remodeling and single-family homes led to townhouse projects with developers. Now its average-size job is $5 million, with much of the work in the $10 million to $20 million range.
Nagle Hartray needs a certain volume of work in order to remain robust. A healthy ratio of revenues to employees was once $100,000 to 1; now it's 25 to 30 percent more money than that, says McKay. So the firm is stepping up its marketing. Thanks to its long-standing reputation, single-family work pretty much walks in the door. Multifamily work, however, has become very competitive, with developers of greenfield sites buying architectural services almost like a commodity. "We're not well suited for that," McKay says. "Our goal is to continue to do multifamily projects, but our future lies with a select group of developers who are going into older downtown areas and delivering something to a particular type of site or client."
At somewhere between 15 and 20 employees, Nagle Hartray took on a full-time marketing person who responds to proposals and puts together materials for interviews and publications. But the formal business development role lies with the principals. "Now we'll have be more specific about what markets and what clients to target, and pursue them before there's a job available," McKay says. "It's something we need to do much better if we're serious about growing."
cheryl weber is a contributing writer in severna park, md.


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Video: Fuji EF-X20 Flash
Zak Billmeier grew up in southern Vermont and coastal Maine. After graduating from Mary Washington College with a Geography degree he still isn't sure quite what to do with, he eventually settled in the mountains of Central Virginia. He spends his free time chasing his daughter around, taking pictures, gardening and cooking. He joined Crutchfield's car A/V writing team in 2007 and is now a lead producer on our video team.
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Heads up!Welcome to this article from the Crutchfield archives. Have fun reading it, but be aware that the information may be outdated and links may be broken.
The EF-X20 hot shoe flash works with select Fujifilm cameras to improve the look of your flash photography. Its build quality, enhanced with premium metal elements, is especially designed to complement the styling of Fujifilm's acclaimed X-Series cameras. This powerful-yet-compact add-on flash lets you shoot in very-low-light conditions.
Video Transcript
I've got here the Fuji EF-X20 add on flash. This is for the Fuji X-series systems. So what this does, it gives your Fuji a very powerful fill flash. It can be used either through the lens, or it can also be easily dialed in as a manual flash. So this is where you tell it how powerfully to flash it. And it's kind of a trial and error system, but it's very useful for doing outdoor portraits and stuff like that. On the dial up here you can dial it in from full power all the way to 1/64th power.
So it's a very versatile little flash. It can be used as a slave flash also, or even as a master in a wireless flash system. So you can set this up on a tripod somewhere else, and once it senses a flash going off it'll fill in that light for you and you can take some pretty sophisticated portraits that way with just a couple of these flashes. It's the Fuji EF-X20. If you have any questions about this just give us a call.


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In the aftermath of what turned out to be a good little discussion about the best punchers in boxing, this often asked question once again returned to my mind. Now, as we all know it's very hard to put your finger on your own personal best, so just throw a few out there.
The reason behind your choices could be Pure Excitement, Historical Importance, a Clash of Styles, an Unexpected Result, a Comeback, a Technical Masterclass, a Big Knockout etc etc.....
Number 1 for me has got to be Deigo Corrales vs Jose Luis Castillo 1
Some more are Winky Wright vs Felix Trinidad, Sugar Ray Robinson vs Jake LaMotta 6, Benn vs McClellan, Hagler vs Hearns, Tony Zale vs Rocky Graziano 3, Leonard vs Hearns 1.......... Man I could go on and on.