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Eco-Stay Rug Pad
- Overview
Protecting floors while adding soft cushioning for feet and toes, this plant-based pad keeps rugs firmly in place.
- Made with 100% plant-based oils.
- For use under any type of rug or mat.
- Easily cut to fit any rug.
- Naturally mold- and mildew-resistant.
- Indoor use only.
- 20-year warranty.
- To learn how to choose the right rug size, visit our Rug Guide.
- Imported.
- Details + Dimensions
- 2'w x 3'l: actual size of 1' 8"w x 2' 8"l.
- 3'w x 5'l: actual size of 2' 6"w x 4' 2"l.
- 5'w x 8'l: actual size of 4' 8"w x 7' 6"l.
- 6'w x 9'l: actual size of 5' 8"w x 8' 6"l.
- 8'w x 10'l: actual size of 7' 6"w x 9' 6"l.
- 9'w x 12'l: actual size of 8' 6"w x 11' 6"l.
- 2.5'w x 7'l (Runner): actual size of 1' 10"w x 6' 8"l.
- Thickness: 0.1".
Hand wash.
- Shipping + Return Info
These items ship from our Distribution Center by UPS and arrive in your home within 4-5 business days of order receipt.
Shipping Rates
The shipping rate varies depending on your order total and shipping options. View Shipping Rates and Options
Next Day Delivery
For an extra charge of $17.50 per address, we can arrange for rush delivery to most destinations.
We happily accept returns on stocked items within the time frames listed below. Products designated as special order (SPO) cannot be cancled or returned. All items on our website and in-store are considered 'stocked' unless expressly identified as 'special order' instead. Prior purchases are not eligible for price adjustments. Please familiarize yourself with our returns policy before placing your order.
Stocked Items: If you are dissatisfied with your purchase of a stocked item, you must exchange or return it within the following time frames for a full refund of the merchandise cost (delivery fees are non-refundable). Outside these time frames, we will replace or refund your purchase against manufacturer's defects ONLY. Please note that we cannot accept returns on gift cards or items damaged through normal wear and tear. We also cannot accept returns of final-sale items, which are identified by a price ending in .99 or .97.
- Quick Ship upholstery items must be returned within 7 days of the order receipt date.
- All other stocked products must be returned within 30 days of the order receipt date.
Special Order Items (SPO): Because they're custom made to your specifications, special order items may not be canceled or returned and are exchangeable against manufacturer's defects ONLY. SPO includes special order upholstery items, monogrammed/personalized items, special order rugs, one-of-a kind rugs and any products being shipped directly from a third-party vendor. Any special order items will be flagged as 'special order' in your shopping cart. NEW JERSEY CUSTOMERS: Special-order upholstered furniture returns are subject to applicable state law and are non-returnable after 24 hours of delivery.
For further assistance please call our customer service department at 1.888.922.4119 or send an email to firstname.lastname@example.com


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Skype for Linux : Just Released
Ok you Linux users out there, good news - Skype 1.4 for Linux has just been released!
Hardware requirements for Skype for Linux:
- 400 Mhz processor or faster.
- 20 MB free disk space on your hard drive.
- Microphone and speakers or headset.
- Internet connection (broadband is best, GPRS is not supported for voice calls, and results may vary on a satellite connection).
Software requirements for Skype for Linux:
- Qt 4.2.1+
- D-Bus 1.0.0
- libsigc++ 2.0.2
- libasound2 1.0.12
What is Skype?
Skype is a free Voip (voice over internet protocol) solution, use requires the ability to record and playback audio. Basically free software that allows you to use your Internet connection to make free voice calls to anyone with it installed too.
You can download the very popular Windows version here.
Labels: linux, skype for linux, sype

subset: commoncrawl


text:
'Noronen had refused the Sabres' original request to take a conditioning assignment earlier this season. The team denied his bid to play in Europe last month, noting the player would have to clear waivers to do so.'
Sabres G Noronen accepts assignment to Rochester
February 28, 2006 Submitted by
Via: AP


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Lori Carpenos, LMFT
Licensed Marriage Family Therapist and Life Coach
81 South Main Street, Suite 7, West Hartford, Connecticut 06107
Dealing with the loss of a loved one is never easy but it doesn't have to devastate you either. My therapy approach is well suited to minimizing the negative effects of grief and loss while honoring the natural progression of emotions while adjusting to life without this person or this human function. I also provide a variety of resources for you so that you feel supported while you go through the process.
David Russell, Ph.D.
1001 Farmington Ave, Suite 304, West Hartford, Connecticut 06107
Does the moment of loss replay over and over in your mind, even months or years after the death? Do you find it hard to think about the good times without thinking about your loss? Do you feel like you are stuck and can't move forward in your life? Are regret and guilt crippling your life? Healing grief and loss is about getting to a place of perfect peace where you can 1) think about your loved one's death without it being an open wound, 2) think about the good times you shared with them and truly enjoy each memory and 3) honor their life and the relationship you shared by developing a network of relationships that can continue to feed and nourish your soul as they once did.
Matthew Bastiaanse, LMFT
Licensed Marriage and Family therapist
29 Windham Rd., Bristol, Connecticut 06010
I process with the client verbally the loss in regards to family of origin whether it be relatives, close friends, or work relationships. Over a period of sessions, the grief becomes less and less, and the client is able to concentrate on moving forward and letting go, and return to an active lifestyle both emotionally and physically. I provide for a safe environment that leads to healing, support, and empathy.


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Newstalk ZB Nelson
Related Stations
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- Nelson, New Zealand
- News , Talk
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- Radio Network 54 Cook Street Private Bag 92198 Auckland New Zealand
- Visit the station website


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Cain is the name of the pit bull at the centre of a biting controversy. The owner does not want to put her pet down.
©submitted photo
GLACE BAY — The owner of a pit bull that bit a women earlier this month said the animal was only coming to the defence of its owner.
"I don't think the animal should be put down," said Katlyn MacLeod, the dog's owner.
"If her story was true and she was just sitting at my table and the dog attacked for no reason at all, then yes because the dog is unsafe. That is not the case."
Corry MacPhee-Morrison has asked that MacLeod's dog be euthanized after she obtained a large bite on her right thigh on July 11 while the 36-year-old was at her brother's home on Villa Nova Road.
RELATED STORY: Dog Bite leaves Glace Bay woman with 200-stitch wound
In disputing the circumstances around the incident, MacLeod said she was struck in the face three times by MacPhee-Morrison before the dog bite.
While MacPhee-Morrison has previously disputed the dog owner's account that she was bitten while caught in the middle of a dogfight, the dog owner said that was part of the story.
According to MacLeod, the three were on an outing together that night.
When they returned around 10 p.m., MacPhee-Morrison was acting boisterous and jumping around, something the two pit bulls at the home were not used to seeing.
The dogs began to fight and had to be separated.
"I took the other dog, not the one she is talking about, and put him in the bedroom," MacLeod said.
"That dog used to be hers six years ago and she went on like a nut because I put that dog in the bedroom first."
MacLeod said she was hit not long after she demanded MacPhee-Morrison leave the house.
"That's when the dog knew my human needs help so the dog picked up for me and grabbed on to her."
William 'Paddy' MacPhee, the brother of MacPhee-Morrison and the boyfriend of MacLeod's, agreed with his girlfriend's side of the story.
"These two dogs are used to peace and quiet so they got a bit excited and got into a fight," said McPhee.
"That dog has been around hundreds of people. It's been around Corry at least 25 times and never did anything. That dog never hurt a soul."
MacLeod does not want to comply with MacPhee-Morrison's request to have her dog put down.
"He's a pit bull and the name they have is such a bad name," she said. "If it had of been a Golden Retriever it wouldn't have gotten so much publicity."
She said they love their dogs and treat them like children.
"I have 100 million people who could say 'I've been around that dog, he's friendly as can be.' It was her going after the dog's owner and most dogs would do that."
Though she's reached out to police, MacPhee-Morrison has not yet pressed charges.
She'd prefer the owner put the dog down without outside involvement, but said if full charges are necessary she'll go through that process.
The Cape Breton SPCA are investigating the incident with the support of the Cape Breton Regional Police.
"The SPCA is the lead on these types of investigations because they are contracted to enforce the dog bylaw from the municipality," said Desiree Vassallo, spokesperson for the Cape Breton Regional Police Service.
"In that bylaw there is a section on dealing with fierce of dangerous dogs."
Vassallo noted that no charges have been laid as of Wednesday afternoon, but police will assist where required to help with the investigation.
"Through the course of it if they determined if there was anything criminal that needed to be looked at then they would pass that over to us, as well."


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NYIAEE Chapter Meeting - Feb. 2013
NYIAEE Chapter Meetings brought to you by NYC & COMPANY
Tuesday, February 12, 2013 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM (EST)
Who's Going
San Francisco, California
London, United Kingdom
Florence, Italy
Event Details
"NYIAEE is shaking up tech talk"
Presented By:
Colin Bunn, VP of Product and Marketing, onPeak
From vendor data integration issues to selecting mobile vendors, today's meeting planners are faced with a long list of urgent priorities and nagging pain points. Hear how Colin Bunn, VP of Product and Marketing for onPeak, and a panel of industry veterans describe ways to build resilient business processes and see through the fog of decisions and deadlines.
Colin Bunn, vice president of product and marketing at onPeak, is fascinated by user-centered, data-driven technologies that make the Web a better place. From icon and interface design, to AJAX and analytics, he has a deep understanding of the Web and how to make technology products reach their highest potential.
10:30am - 11:45am: Education Program, Crystal Room
11:45am - 12:30pm: Reception, Crystal Room
12:30pm - 2:00pm: Luncheon, Crystal Room
When & Where
The New Yorker Hotel - Crystal Room
481 8th Ave
New York,
Tuesday, February 12, 2013 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM (EST)
Add to my calendar


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During a Main Street Design subcommittee meeting Tuesday, Main Street Director Lew Holloway unrolled a new glossy map of downtown businesses, numbered and categorized in an easy-to-read key, denoting parking, public restrooms and sights to see.
During a Main Street Design subcommittee meeting Tuesday, Main Street Director Lew Holloway unrolled a new glossy map of downtown businesses, numbered and categorized in an easy-to-read key, denoting parking, public restrooms and sights to see.
"I'm really excited about this piece," Holloway said.
Creating wayfinding measures for visitors to downtown Hendersonville is the subcommittee's primary goal for 2013. The new map will not only serve as a fold-out guide for visitors, but as a way of promoting what the historic district has to offer, Holloway said.
He added that they hope to find partners to help them print the maps and place copies in hotels, visitors' centers and shops this spring.
Holloway said he has been working with city staff to develop a wayfinding policy. One of the next steps, he added, will also be to address avenue signage, branded with the Historic Downtown Hendersonville logo.
Future wayfinding signs, placed at various entrances to the city, will be used to lure people downtown.
Clock tower debate continues
A clock tower concept has struck a nerve among some citizens who think the city may have lost its way when brainstorming a design for the north gateway to Hendersonville's Main Street.
Illinois sculptor Bruce White was pegged to design a gateway piece at the corner of Seventh Avenue and Main Street heading into downtown. He backed out in December, and council members agreed with Mayor Barbara Volk's suggestion of a clock tower as a replacement.
Some merchants have voiced concerns that the steady tick-tock of a clock does not match the heartbeat of downtown. Armed with signed petitions, they plan to take their concerns to City Council at its meeting Thursday.
Some say a clock tower would be too old school.
"I want us to look at what would be the most dynamic, unique and beautiful feature here," said Eva Ritchey, owner of Once Upon A Sign at 305 N. Main St. "It's the first thing people will see coming into our community" from Highway 64 and Highway 25.
Some say its chimes would compete with the church bells ringing at St. James Episcopal.
"I'm not opposed to a clock tower, but I would want it to be more dramatic," said Advisory Committee Chair Tom Orr.
Merchants also said the city already has enough clocks. Mark Ray, committee member and owner of Dad's C.A.T.S. at 221 N. Main St., mentioned the historic copper four-faced timepiece (which keeps the wrong time on at least three of its sides) on the corner of the Ewbank building at Fourth Avenue and Main Street.
Other merchants say that, if done correctly, a clock tower could fit just right and not overshadow the new fountain planned for the plaza in front of First Citizens bank. All seemed to agree the fountain will be a gem.
Holloway said that he and streetscape engineers will present four types of clock towers, their potential costs and designs to council Thursday night.
Reach Weaver at email@example.com or 828-694-7867.


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Yea so like when i go out bombing i tend to do large pieces and i usally get sick from the fumes so i was wondering what is the best brand or type of Respirator Mask i should get?
Yea so like when i go out bombing i tend to do large pieces and i usally get sick from the fumes so i was wondering what is the best brand or type of Respirator Mask i should get?
I don't know, but surely any of them do what they're meant to do and have certain regulations on safety etc, so I guess the on;y difference in masks would be comfort and size I suppose
#M makes some badass resps. I only really use em for legal indoor shit though [not that that happens very often]. But everyones got different lungs an chit so to each his own.
woops. 3M*
my blunder.
coulda fixed that but Imma up my post count like a cool kiddddd.
yeah, ive got a 3M double filtered P95 mask. it works very well. the P95 filters apparently filter 95% of particles and i dont taste or smell any solvents while wearing it either. i can paint for 10 hours with it and not have an issue. they cost about $45-$50 at a home depot, id suggest picking one up
Last edited by GuyGuyer of Guyland; 08-29-2011 at 06:26 PM.
I have the older model of that ^ Works fine and a little cheaper. All though I would suggest getting the new just cause its easier to change filters .
MDC Familia
Gaining Knowledge
a bandana
This is what I use Clicky Clicky.
It is fantastic. It does not steam up, you can get just about any filter for it you can imagine and then you can even clip them together in combinations.
I use a particle filter clipped on an toxic gas/solvent filter.
Would you recommend getting a resp?
ALways where the mask.
...wear-ever you go
Yeah I have the 3M one everyone here is talking about too. And it works great. They sell them and the filters at the home depots in the paint section.
Heads up respirators will help only if you keep it on and have sun glasses on. For my second arrest I forgot my sun glasses in my car and the police used that one mistake so much for me. The sun glasses will actually help because the sunglasses will cover the rest of your face that isn't protected by the respirator. Which is very useful for security cameras.
PS- A gas mask might look dorky but they will work SO much better then a respirator. They will cover your eyes and help to keep your air fresh.
Last edited by maizy; 11-12-2011 at 01:27 PM.
If your totally obsessed with not appearing suspicious, while buying a mask (i guess cuz you look like a writer), its possible to make a mask. If you have the time, and the materials, what i want to do, is make a mold of the lower half of my face, out of plastic. Then attach some homemade filters onto it. So far the plans look kind of badass, and should work out well.
is hard to bomb with a mask! if your gettting sick then buy the cheap little mask the asians wear! will help and can be easily trown out
glasses and a small respirator will do, also bandana over one will help keeping your face hidding
or just go bad ass, and dont use a mask. "Real men don't use masks"


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Canadian author Alice Munro has just been awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature for 2013. In the announcement she is lauded as a "master of the contemporary short story."
Her biography, from the Nobel Prize website, includes the following:
Munro is acclaimed for her finely tuned storytelling, which is characterized by clarity and psychological realism. Some critics consider her a Canadian Chekhov. Her stories are often set in small town environments, where the struggle for a socially acceptable existence often results in strained relationships and moral conflicts – problems that stem from generational differences and colliding life ambitions. Her texts often feature depictions of everyday but decisive events, epiphanies of a kind, that illuminate the surrounding story and let existential questions appear in a flash of lightning.
The Library has a number of collections of Munro's works, in various formats.
Dear Life: Stories (2012) | Print | eBook | Downloadable audiobook (WMA)
Too Much Happiness: Stories (2009) | Print | CD audiobook | eBook | Downloadable audiobook (MP3, WMA)
Runaway: Stories (2004) | Print | Downloadable audiobook (MP3, WMA)
Hateship, Friendship, Courtship, Loveship, Marriage: Stories (2001) | Print
Open Secrets: Stories (1995) | Print


text:
Skip navigation.
August 28, 2012 -- Nursing students from Northwestern Oklahoma State University encourage all individuals to participate in Bio-Touch research on Friday, Aug. 31, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the Student Center Ballroom.
June 11, 2012 -- Five recent Northwestern Oklahoma State University nursing graduates are beginning the final planning stage for a trip to Brisbane, Australia beginning in late July, by launching a few fundraising efforts. The group members have been invited to present their "Bio-Touch" research at the Sigma Theta Tau International Research Conference to be held July 26 through Aug. 4.
April 10, 2012 -- Six Northwestern Oklahoma State University professors and five students participated in this year's MBAA International Conference held at the end of March in Chicago.
March 5, 2012 -- Nursing students at Northwestern Oklahoma State University completed a research study utilizing a complementary touch therapy, titled Bio-Touch, to assess the effects on stress and other related factors. Twelve students are taking this research to Chicago to present at the Midwest Business Administration Association (MBAA) Conference March 28-31.
February 16, 2012 -- Students from the Division of Nursing at Northwestern Oklahoma State University have been presenting their Bio-Touch research at various venues, and have submitted a proposal for presentation to Sigma Theta Tau International in Brisbane, Australia, in late July or early August.
Northwestern Oklahoma State University's Division of Nursing conducted research on 193 subjects after learning the skills of Bio-Touch.
MISSION STATEMENT: Northwestern Oklahoma State University provides quality educational and cultural opportunities to learners with diverse needs by cultivating ethical leadership and service, critical thinking and fiscal responsibility.


text: The Gregory Baltoro 65 Pack takes pack management to new heights with features that settle the weight of the load on your hips and lumbar region for optimal balance and comfort. The advanced Response AFS Suspension and 3D pre-curved auto-cant harness and auto-fit waistbelt components are constructed with high tech LifeSpan EVA foam to give you the most comfortable fit. The thermo molded back panel is engineered with advanced elastomeric gription technology on the lumbar pad for load management capabilities, and the DWR coated, water-resistant zippers and dual layer, weather-resistant bottom panel provide the durability you want in a technical pack. The main access is a quick draw, easy to open drawstring that makes it easy to load and unload, and the top lid has a stash pocket on the underside and can be removed to double as a fanny pack when needed. Plenty of pockets let you store your gear like a front pocket, twin side pockets, dual waist belt pockets, and a hideaway water bottle pocket with bungee. A hydration sleeve lets you store your reservoir, and side ports make it easy to feed your hose out.


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Meeting Notes 2009 06 09
From Noisebridge
[edit] Crew
- Moderator: Jason Dusek
- Notes: Please avoid top-posting at this meeting.
[edit] Agenda Items
[edit] Announcements
- What Noisebridge is about.
- Treasurer's report
- RoboGames
- Locks!
- Special Guest!
- DeepCrack as a possible historical but still operational donation
[edit] Project Updates
Telephones at the space -nils
[edit] What's Going On at Noisebridge
One short sentence about each of the following:
- PyClass (Monday 6:30PM, 83c)
- Circuit Hacking Mondays (8PM, 83c)
- Haschool (Tuesday 6:00PM, 83c)
- Machine Learning Wednesdays (8PM, 83c)
- Science/Engineering Huddle (8PM Thursdays, 83c)
- Shop Class - Fridays (8pm, 83c)
- Natural Language Corners
- German Thursdays 7PM 83c, beginners earlier, advanced come later.
- Sensebridge Cyborg Group (Sundays)
- OpenEEG 3pm - 5pm
- DC3 Digital Forensics Challenge
- Go on Sunday 3pm
- Locks Sunday 3pm
- Hologlyphics/Noisebridge Grant Proposal Update - Hologlyphic Video Art
- Adobe Lightroom Class
[edit] Consensus Items
No items have been discussed to death, so no quick decisions.
[edit] Membership Binder
- Reading Names
- New member approvals
[edit] Discussion topics
- Anti-funk power washing in the alley proposal: Alleviate Alley Aroma?
- Status of 501c3 application (David Molnar)
- Upgrading to Comcast business class
- MakerBot kit for Noisebridge
- Moving - space visit report for 1867 Mission St
- Miloh wants to talk about new soldering equipment
[edit] Notes
- Add links to every agenda item up.
- Volunteers to lead the next meeting?


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Interested Participants may enroll in courses in person at the College of Central Florida's Levy Center at 114 Rodgers Blvd in Chiefland, by phone at 352-493-9533 or online at CFItraining.cf.edu (select Levy noncredit classes).
Computer Fundamentals
The College of Central Florida Levy Center is accepting enrollment for Computer Fundamentals I, which will be held Sept. 27 through Oct. 18. The four-week introductory class will meet on Mondays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. The $89 fee includes the textbook.
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Wedaholic.com: Pets At Weddings - Tips For Getting Your Dog, Cat or Even Horse Involved!
It's all very well having butterflies or doves released at your wedding to symbolize the love, fidelity and union of your relationship but is it really wise to include your own pets in your wedding day? Are you just asking for trouble by choosing to include your pet in such a momentous occasion?
The Popular Trend
Dogs in particular are becoming the new untraditional participants in wedding ceremonies. They are either being entrusted with roles such as ring bearers, bridesmaids, and groomsmen or are simply present during the ceremony to bear witness to their owner's nuptials. This is probably because dogs are the most socially acceptable pet to be seen out and about with in public and also because they can be trained quite easily to perform at your wedding.
When Jane McBride walks down the aisle in Chicago this September she has handed the role of ring bearer to her Mufasa, an 85-pound Akita-shepherd mix. She has already chosen Mufasa's wedding attire - a multicolored bow tie that will hold the wedding rings. Jane admitted to the Chicago Tribune that she would never consider leaving Mufasa at home on her wedding day.
It's not just dog-lovers who are including their pets in their weddings. Wedding planner Joey Lizotte, owner of Artisan, Cathedral City, helped to organize a wedding at a home in La Quinta in which a bridesmaid patiently held a gray-and-white cat during the vows. Also Gloria Steacy, an ordained minister and owner of Royal Wedding Gardens & Chapel in LaSalle, recalls a medieval theme wedding where the bride and groom's two cats sat in cages near the altar during the ceremony. It is fast becoming the new trend to include your pet in your wedding day. I have even read a story about a couple who had their horses attend their wedding! Throughout this article I have referred to "dog" as this is the more popular guest at weddings but you could easily substitute this for your own pet whether it's a ferret or a goldfish -anything is possible! I have also referred to dogs as "he" - this is because my dog (who features in the wedding photo with me!) is a he, it's not that I am excluding bitches when I make references to dogs.
One of the family!
According to Palmspringslife.com Mindy Weiss a wedding planner based in Los Angeles, who has coordinated the happy occasion for numerous celebrities, says that "I find that about 30 percent of my weddings involve pets." Many couples consider their pets to be part of their family or their best friends so it is only right that their pet should be given a starring role in their wedding day. For their Californian wedding Myra and John Pugh had their 75-pound Akita-German shepherd mix dog Joy accompany a groomsman down the aisle sporting a collar of red roses and greenery. Palmspringslife.com reports that Joy wagged her tail in approval as the couple made their wedding vows. Myra said "She is a huge part of our life. During the wedding, she didn't bark once. I think she knew that this was serious stuff." If you are an animal lover then including your pet in your wedding day is no different to inviting your family and friends. Alice Moon-Fanelli, a certified applied animal behaviorist and assistant professor at Tufts University in North Grafton, Mass. says "Including pets is a statement of solidarity by the couple who mutually agree that the pet plays a major role in both of their lives."
An increasing number of modern couples are treating their pets as children. Sheila Spitza, co-owner of Wet Nose Pet Spa in Geneva, Illinois says "Couples don't have children, but they do have a dog, so it only makes sense that they would stand up in their wedding". According to Cleveland.com Laura and Bob Mutsko who tied the knot at St. Bede's Catholic Church in Mentor in 1999, had a traditional wedding ceremony but had their "only child" their 4 year old dog Murphy walk up the aisle with them and present their rings and sat amongst the congregation. "Several of the guests came just to see Murphy" Laura says.
Personally, I wanted to have photos taken with my dog on my wedding day and to spend some time with him on the morning of the wedding. This worked out perfectly and he looked very dapper in his tartan bow! Whilst everyone else rushed around me in a mad panic on the morning of my wedding I chilled out in the sunshine outside with my dog – he totally kept me calm. It was the perfect way to start my wedding day!
Evidence of the rise in popularity of dogs participating in weddings is the rapidly increasing sales at pet boutiques of dog tuxedos, miniature sequined wedding gowns, frilly bridesmaid dresses and dog-friendly ring bearer pillows.
Despite the fact that it has become more socially acceptable to make your pet a special part of your wedding day, do be prepared for raised eyebrows and disapproval from some disapproving wedding guests. Don't worry about it though – in this day and age when themed weddings are bordering on the ridiculous having your dog walk you down the aisle should not shock your guests!
You're in good company!
Although it is not the norm for couples to include their dogs in their weddings, be assured that it is not just wacky dog lovers who are doing it. Celebrities are indulging in this new trend too!
♥ When Premiership footballer Ashley Cole and singer Cheryl Tweedy get married tomorrow at Highclere Castle in Berkshire their pet chihuahua Buster will be playing a part in their wedding. Cheryl's Girls Aloud bridesmaids have bought Buster a wedding outfit with "Cheryl & Ashley" written on it in diamante.
♥ For her London wedding to Gavin Rossdale, singer Gwen Stefani was escorted down the aisle by her sheepdog Winston, who was decked out in a rose-covered collar and lead.
♥ Tori Spelling wanted her beloved pug Mimi Larue to look her best as she served as flower girl and ring bearer at Tori's wedding, so she hired a special fashion designer to create her wedding outfit.
♥ Comedian and Hollywood star Adam Sandler had his dogs Matzoball (pulled down the aisle in a wagon) and Meatball at his Malibu wedding. Meatball was his "best dog" and was dressed in a tux with a yarmulke on his head.
♥ Pink and Carey Hart even had their four dogs accompany them on their snowboarding honeymoon earlier this year.
Advantages of having your pet participate in your wedding day:
♥ I think it's a lovely way to personalize your wedding day and to bring a smile to everyone's faces. You don't have to dress your pet in a tuxedo to raise a smile from your guests - the novelty of a pet being present at your wedding will be enough to make them smile.
♥ It makes your wedding less of a formal occasion and can lighten up the mood which is always a good thing. Weddings are not supposed to be somber affairs!
♥ If you do not have nieces, nephews or little ones to act as flower girls or page boys then a pet is a perfect alternative! In the same way they love to see a cute flower girl or page boy walking up the aisle, on the whole wedding guests do enjoy seeing a dog walk down the aisle - it brings a fun element to the wedding.
Get permission!
♥ The first thing to do if you plan to include your dog in your wedding party is to check with the officiant. Make it clear to them what your dog's role in the wedding will be. Ensure that they are comfortable with this idea.
♥ Be warned, churches do not usually allow dogs unless they are accompanied by a blind person. If the officiant is not happy with your dog being part of the wedding ceremony try appealing to their better nature and remind them that dogs are God's creatures so they too should be welcome in a church. It could be that the officiant is worried about the dog wreaking havoc or having a toilet incident. Reassure them and have them meet your dog if necessary.
♥ You should also check with your ceremony and/or reception venue whether dogs are allowed. This is really important and you should not leave something like this to chance on the day – refusal to allow your dog entry to the venue because you have not received permission prior to the wedding would cause unnecessary upset on your special day. Ask in advance so that you can either plan to include your dog in the wedding or make alternative arrangements for his care on your wedding day.
♥ Some venues will have banned dogs because of a prior bad experience at an event at their venue involving dogs. Depending on how badly you want your dog to be present at your wedding you could challenge this by taking your dog down to the venue, meeting with the owner and demonstrate to them how perfectly well-behaved and loveable your dog is!
♥ Something to consider in your wedding budget is that some indoor venues charge an extra fee for dogs (this is due to the extra cleaning they have to carry out afterwards to remove evidence of a dog having being there – hopefully just the dog's hairs!).
♥ As a courtesy you should also check that the other members of your bridal party are comfortable with your pet dog being included in the wedding party. Remember that not everyone is a dog lover and some people are allergic to dog hairs. I will leave it up to you to deal with if one of your bridesmaids gives you an "It's me or the dog" ultimatum!
♥ Inform the photographer that your dog is to be included in the wedding photos. Make sure they do not have a problem working with animals.
Ensure your guest's comfort
♥ Make sure you inform all of your guests of the dog's participation in your wedding. If you have a wedding website then this would be a great way of letting them know your dog's role and perhaps even advertising for dog-helpers amongst the guests on the day!
♥ Be warned that some guests might refuse to participate in a wedding ceremony that includes dogs or other animals and some might be severely allergic to dog hair.
♥ Whilst not all of your guests might share you and your partner's enthusiasm for having your dog be part of the wedding, they will appreciate you having forewarned them in case they do have an issue with it.
♥ Remember that your cute little dog has the potential to frighten some of your wedding guests. Make sure that your dog is kept well away from any guests with a fear of dogs - you want them to relax and enjoy your wedding day not grip their seats in terror!
Are they up to the job?
You must ask yourself if your dog is well-behaved enough to participate in your wedding. Be honest with yourself. Just as a cute dog will always be remembered on your wedding day, so too will a naughty unruly dog. You don't want your wedding day to be spoilt by a doggie disaster!
Here are some points to consider:
♥ First and foremost think of your dog's comfort. Will he be comfortable attending your wedding? Will he have to travel a long distance to get there? If the answer is he would be more comfortable at home, and if this is an option, then you should do what is best for your dog.
♥ You should assess how your dog reacts to large crowds and to noisy situations. Does it bother your dog? Do you think he would rather not be there? You know your dog so use your own judgment on this one.
♥ Does your dog have unpredictable behavior? Of course, like children, you cannot predict exactly how they are going to behave on the day of the wedding but if you have any doubts that the dog might get over-excited or aggressive it is best not to include them in your wedding ceremony.
♥ Is your dog well-trained? What is his obedience level? Does he respond to commands? A dog that has yet to master simple commands such as "sit" and "stay" might not be suitable to be included in your wedding. This is very important if you intend on giving them a role in the wedding where they are expected to follow orders (e.g. walk down aisle and wait patiently whilst you untie the rings from around his neck). Unless you are absolutely certain that your pet can be counted on to behave during your wedding ceremony then it might be better to have them participate in the wedding photos and leave it at that.
♥ Is your dog likely to get distracted as it walks down the aisle? It might be wise to keep even the best behaved wedding dog on a leash to prevent them from veering off the aisle and going to say hello to everyone. This is especially true if you are having your wedding ceremony in an outdoor location where other pets are present.
♥ Is your dog a lapdog? If so he might be likely to pester you or your partner to be picked up. Your dog may not understand why you cannot devote your attention to him as you usually do, so perhaps in this case it is best to leave him at home.
♥ Is your venue dog-friendly, or if not is it safe for your dog if you intend to let him wander at the reception? Is there a swimming pool which your dog might try jumping into?
♥ Is your dog a barker? If there are songs or music included during your ceremony, is this likely to bother your dog or is he used to this sort of noise? The last thing you want is your dog interrupting your ceremony.
♥ Does your dog jump up? Even dog-lovers may not appreciate a dog jumping up on them when they are in their best clothes.
♥ If you intend on having your dog present at the wedding reception, is he likely to steal guests' food? Of course this can be prevented if they are kept under close scrutiny.
♥ If you have any doubts about your dogs ability to stop themselves from cocking their leg during an indoor wedding ceremony then you should definitely not consider including them in your wedding ceremony.
Wedding roles for your pet:
You should choose a role for your pet in your wedding which is appropriate to their temperament and behavior. A dog who is highly energetic will need to be kept on a leash throughout the wedding ceremony whereas a lapdog might be quite happy to be held by one of the wedding attendants/guests during the ceremony. Here are some ideas for roles in your wedding for your pet:
♥ The popular choice is to have your dog bring the rings down the aisle on a satin pillow or in a small bag tied to his collar. Bridalpeople.com have a really cute ring pillow which attaches to the collar with 2 Velcro fasteners. The pillow shown here is suitable for medium and large breed dogs but there are lots of smaller pillows available on the dog clothing stores listed below or on eBay. You could even make a pillow yourself.
♥ If your dog is really well trained he could carry the rings down the aisle in a pouch using his mouth – this is guaranteed to get gasps of delight from your wedding guests!
♥ How about having your pet accompany you to the altar. This might be a popular choice if the alternative for you or your partner is walking down the aisle alone.
♥ You could have your dog act as flower dog and carry flowers in his mouth or a basket of flowers if at all possible. Do make sure beforehand that they are not toxic to your dog and will not present a choking hazard to him.
♥ It is becoming popular nowadays for dogs to stand as maid-of-honor and best man. Have one of the other wedding attendants walk your dog down the aisle so that they can stand proudly next to you during the ceremony.
♥ Rather than carring a bouquet of flowers you could carry your dog (if he is small enough) down the aisle. Make sure that someone is willing to hold your dog during the ceremony though - you can't exchange rings holding your pup!
♥ If your venue does not allow your pet to participate in your wedding then why not just have them included in your wedding photos. That is what I did as our wedding venue did not allow dogs. I had the best of both worlds as my dog got to have some fun meeting and greeting all the wedding guests in the gardens of the venue whilst the photos were being taken and then my bridesmaid's mother kindly collected him and took care of him for the rest of the day, so I was able to relax knowing that he was being well taken care of!
♥ Do you own a pet which is small and quite patient? Would it be willing to sit in the arms of one of your wedding guests? If you think it would be safer and the pet would be more comfortable then keep them secured in their carrier during the ceremony.
♥ If you own a bird such as a parrot or cockatoo they could sit on a perch and be carried down the aisle by a willing helper.
♥ If you want your cat to be present for your wedding consider having him walked down the aisle on a leash or even carried on a decorative pillow or basket.
♥ As mentioned, dogs are the traditional choice of pets at weddings but if you have a smaller, less social pets such as a hamster, lizard, guinea pig or even snake which you desperately want to bear witness to your nuptials perhaps you could place its cage nearby as you exchange vows or have one of the (willing) wedding guests hold it during the ceremony!
Tips for getting the best out of your pet on your wedding day:
♥ If it is paramount to you that your dog plays a key role in your wedding then, for his comfort, perhaps you could choose a dog-friendly venue for the ceremony and/or reception. The ideal venue would be outdoor such as a park, arboretum, beach or somebody's garden in their backyard!
♥ A lot of dogs can't handle the heat so if it is a hot day either reconsider having your dog in your wedding party or ensure that they are able to sit in the shade or (even better) an air-conditioned room during the ceremony or reception until the sun has gone down. Do make sure that your dog has access to fresh water if it is a hot day.
♥ You should nominate one wedding guest or member of your bridal party to be in charge of your pet. They should be prepared for all eventualities during the wedding with a supply of dog treats (especially useful for bribery during the photo-taking session), poop bags and a plan to remove the dog from the venue if he becomes unruly or restless.
♥ Make sure that your nominated dog handler knows the key commands which your dog will obey, such as "Come," "Sit," "Stay," "Down," "Wait," and "Quiet." Have them practice with your dog prior to the wedding so that they become familiar with your dogs behavior and responses to commands and so that your dog can get to know them too! It is important that your dog becomes familiar with the nominated dog handler before the wedding day if possible.
♥ Sometimes it is best to draft in professional help to look after your dog. After all which member of your bridal party is going to want to scoop your dog's mess of the lawn during your wedding reception! Delegating the pet-handling task to a professional will alleviate unnecessary stress on you, your partner and your wedding guests. You should definitely consider hiring a pet co-ordinator or pet-sitter who will be responsible for dressing your dog on the morning of the wedding, transporting him to and from the reception, ensuring he gets fed, watered and takes toilet breaks and deals with any antisocial doggie behavior. The hire cost depends on how long you need the dog handler for. For dog-handlers in the USA have a look at Petsitusa.com or for the UK try Petpals.com.
♥ If possible make sure your dog is familiar with the ceremony and reception spaces so that they know how to sit comfortably there. It is a good idea to include your dog in the rehearsal so that your dog can get to know strangers he will encounter during the wedding as well as his new surroundings. This is also a great way of checking out, from your dog's point of view, what possible hazards there could be for your dog on the wedding day, including toxic plants, swimming pools or other animals which might distract him during the wedding ceremony.
♥ If you intend on having your dog sit in the receiving line then practice beforehand so that he gets used this. The earlier you start this sort of training the better.
♥ If you are getting married out of town remember to make sure that you book accommodation for your dog at a pet-welcoming hotel.
♥ It is important that whoever is handling your dog on the day of the wedding (whether it is a professional or one of your bridal party) is aware of the timings of key events in the wedding ceremony and reception. They need to have time to walk your dog and make sure that he is well exercised and has used up some of his energy so that he can walk calmly down the aisle or sit patiently during the ceremony.
♥ Avoid giving your dog too much food or water immediately prior to and during the ceremony. This will help to prevent unwanted toileting accidents!
♥ It is important to ensure that whoever is walking the dog down the aisle is strong enough to control the dog. The last thing you want is your bridesmaid being dragged down the aisle on the end of a dog leash Indiana Jones-style!
♥ Make sure that your dog is not permitted to run around unsupervised, especially if there are children present at your wedding that your dog is unused to. Your dog might behave like an angel usually but if he is provoked by a child wielding a stick up his bottom you don't know how he might react!
♥ Have a plan in place that if your dog becomes tired or antisocial he can be discreetly taken away from the wedding ceremony or reception and cared for - this is a good reason to employ a professional dog-sitter as your attendance is not going to want to miss out on the wedding because of your dog!
♥ You must be flexible if you are including your dog in your wedding ceremony. Anything can happen and you have to be prepared for that, to have measures put in place to deal with dog emergencies and be able to laugh it off!
♥ Never cause your dog any unnecessary stress. If you feel it is necessary bring their cage with them so that they can be locked up safely and comfortably if your wedding proves to be a bit too much for them.
♥ If you have a totally unpredictable dog but you really want them to participate in your wedding, have a parent or friend lead to the alter to deliver your wedding rings during the ceremony and then they can lead the dog away immediately before he has a chance to do anything mischievous!
Wedding catering for your pet:
If you have included your dog as a wedding attendant then it is only right that they are given a treat like all of your other wedding guests. Here are a couple of ideas which are a bit more special than bonio dog biscuits:
♥ You could arrange to have a cake made for your dog (and any other canine guests) to enjoy at the reception made from dog-friendly ingredients such as beef chunks, chicken mince, rabbit etc.
♥ For designer dog treats take a look at the Bones-n-Scones website. They have a range of tasty sounding dog treats and meals ranging from cookies to "5-Star Mutt Buffet: a tasty assortment of meaty "mutt loaf" made with turkey, yams, and green peas".
♥ According to Doggienews.com Chez Puppy, a gourmet dog bakery in California, sells dog wedding "ruffception" packs.
Wedding attire for your pet:
To help your dog look the part for your wedding, outfit them for the occasion. Some ideas for doggie wedding attire are:
♥ A simple bow tie, bandana or ribbon around your pet's neck to match the color theme of your wedding (my dog wore a tartan ribbon for my wedding photos - very simple but incredibly cute!).
♥ A new collar and leash that match your wedding colors.
♥ A dog tuxedo, formal dress or t-shirt with printed words on it (see selection listed below). According to the owner of a dog wedding apparel store the bridesmaid's gowns and ring-bearer tuxes are increasingly the best-selling items.
Tips for buying a wedding outfit for your pet:
♥ Wedding attire for pets can run anywhere from $30 to more than $100, depending on the embellishments and fabric you choose. Do try to choose fabric which is not going to irritate your dog.
♥ If your dog is part of your bridal party try to co-ordinate the color of their outfit with the rest of your attendants. A lot of the websites I have listed below will custom-make clothing for your pets in colors to match your wedding theme. Pawprintzpetboutique.com can customize a t-shirt for your dog in studs or rhinestones to spell out what you want it to say.
♥ Try to avoid putting flower arrangements around your dog's neck as some of them are toxic to dogs (particularly lilies, daffodils and hydrangeas) and if they are constructed using wire this could injure the dog. An alternative is to decorate their leash with flowers and ribbons (à la Gwen Stefani) or add a corsage to the leash handle.
♥ If you are dressing your dog for your wedding, always ensure that the outfit is made of high quality fabrics that allow some stretch to ensure your dog's comfort. You don't want them squirming all the way through your ceremony!
♥ Check the outfit you propose your dog wears for beads and ribbons which could present a choking hazard to him. Definitely do not put human jewelry on your dog (obvious I know!).
♥ Remember that to properly fit your dog for a collar measure the inches around the dog's neck and make sure you can fit two fingers under the tape measure.
♥ Practice dressing your dog to check what he will and will not tolerate! Buy the outfit and/or ring bearer pillow well enough in advance that your dog can become comfortable wearing it and moving around in it. Sometimes (particularly with larger dogs) it takes a bit of getting used to if they have never worn anything on their body before.
♥ If you want to dress your dog on a budget have a look on eBay as they seem to have a variety of dog attire ranging from $12. You don't have to worry about it being a used item either - your dog is never going to know!
♥ Remember you cannot justify spending more on your dog's outfit for the wedding than you do on your own - be sensible!
Entertaining pet clothing websites to check out:
♥ Have a look at Thepuppyshop.com. I love their classic dog tuxedo which includes a top hat too with an elasticated chin strap. Prices for this start at a very reasonable $14.99.
♥ How cute does this dog look! His outfit is from Doggiedesigner.com. They also sell mini tiaras for dogs!
♥ This cute little t-shirt (pictured above right) for your ring-bearing dog is available from Cafepress.com for $17.99.
♥ Cute dog t-shirts (pictured to the left) as well as tiaras and ruffled collars are available from Pawprintzpetboutique.com.
♥ Here are some of the other websites which I found which have cute pet outfits perfect for attending your wedding:
o Advantagebridal.com - they have a fantastic selection of cute outfits for dogs including angel wings, dog collars with "Maid of Honor, Best Dog, Ring Bearer" on them and t-shirts too.
o Charming Pet Products - they design jewelry and accessories for pets, with wedding-inspired collars, tiaras, and pooch pearls!
o Pawpalaceonline.com offer a really cute t-shirt with "Always The Bridesmaid" printed on it for $20.
o Pampered Pets Boutique - Tammy Peace creates custom make designer style wedding and pageant dresses for your small dog.
♥ Although there are not many wedding outfits available for cats, if your wedding day would be incomplete without kitty attending then you could either have an outfit custom-made or Kiittycity.com have this Top Hat & Tails Cat Costume available.
Personally I think that just the fact that your pet is attending your wedding will be cute enough for your guests so there is really nor a great need to dress them up in formal wedding attire. It is you decision though – do what you think is best for you and your beloved pet!
If you are unable to logistically include your pet in your wedding your alternative is to include them in some other way.
♥ You could include their picture in your wedding stationery or have a photo of them displayed at the reception.
♥ New York cake-maker Sylvia Weinstock topped a wedding cake for one couple with a replica of their dog. Perhaps having your pet adorning your wedding cake is a step too far!
Check out this fun article at Manolobrides.com which might help you to decide whether or not your pet should attend your wedding.
Unless you are absolutely certain that your pet can be counted on to behave during your wedding then it might be better to have them participate in the wedding photos and leave it at that.
Of course some dogs at weddings probably turn out to be better behaved than the human wedding guests! My opinion is that if your pet is important to you and your fiancé and I you don't mind sharing your spotlight with a four legged friend, then embrace the new trend and include them in your wedding - it is your special day and you don't want to have any regrets!
Futher Information On Pets And Weddings:
Harrods Wedding Service - For Dogs! - The "Puppy Love Package"
Two Dogs Marry In The US - Clinton Township, Michigan.
Posted by Emily on July 14, 2006 12:52 PM to Wedaholic.com


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In late times the death of Condorcet was occasioned by a subtle poison, made by Cabanis, and enclosed in a ring.
Condorcet was not among them, but his political days were numbered.
At this time the long friendship between Paine and Condorcet, and the Marchioness too, had become very intimate.
But intelligence circulates, Condorcet; like water, it finds its level.
Condorcet saw in this harmonious union and fine balance of qualities the secret of his unpopularity.
The infidel Condorcet published an edition of the "Thoughts."
Condorcet and his predecessors regarded it exclusively from the eudaemonic point of view.
The rare men who saw this, from Holbach and Condorcet to Mill, were philosophers.
The sixth duke, the friend of Condorcet, was the last of the long line of noble lords who bore that distinguished name.
Come no further, cried another, Vergniaud and Condorcet sat here.


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Herald staff
"Reflections of The Supremes," a tribute concert to the 1960s girl group, will be presented Saturday at the Historic Everett Theatre.
Vocalists, not impersonators, will perform the group's hits, which include "Stop in the Name of Love," "Baby Love" and "You Can't Hurry Love," with a live band, starting at 8 p.m.
Tickets are $15 to $18 at 425-258-6766 or www.etix.com. The theater is at 2911 Colby Ave.
Next up at the theater is the Hot August 9th Benefit Concert featuring Elvis tribute performer Tracy Alan Moore and Seattle-band WingsNThings performing the music of Paul McCartney.
For more information, go to www.historiceveretttheatre.org.


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Watch The ::God Is Imaginary Videos On YouTube ::
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Being a Christian, I've made my decision. That decision offers no compromise; therefore, I'm closed to anything else.
Religions need books because they don't have gods.
^^^Yup. Here in Florida, too. Except it was 7:50 EDT by my clock.
Seriously though... What would happen if the Great Green Arkleseizure didn't fram up the rammastam before the hermite curve achieved maximum nurdfurdle velocity? Now THAT would be something. AmIrite?


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What exactly are polymers, anyway? With the help of local New Jersey middle school students, Princeton faculty and graduate students give a hands-on explanation of these long-chain molecules (found in clothing, food, DNA, and silly putty among other places).
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'"We had some opportunities to put pucks on net but we didn't do it," lamented Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff. "We're just doing things too slowly. The speed of the team is puck movement and it hasn't been good enough."'
Ottawa 3, Buffalo 2 (SO)
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GradFest is a "one-stop shop" for commencement preparation, and all students who have submitted applications for degree are invited to attend.
A number of campus offices and divisions participate in GradFest to assist students in any matters they may have. Students may:
- Collect commencement regalia (cap and gown)
- Check spelling of name and mailing address with the Office of the Registrar
- Ensure they are financially clear with the Office of Business Affairs and the Office of Financial Aid
- Take graduation portraits in regalia with the our official commencement photography partner
- Discuss job-seeking options with the Office of Career Services
- Register with the Alumni Association
- Purchase commencement materials (invitations, diploma frames, etc.) with the Bookstore
- Enter drawings for door prizes and much more!


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Assessment |
Biopsychology |
Comparative |
Cognitive |
Developmental |
Language |
Individual differences |
Personality |
Philosophy |
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Methods | Statistics | Clinical | Educational | Industrial | Professional items | World psychology |
Cognitive Psychology: Attention · Decision making · Learning · Judgement · Memory · Motivation · Perception · Reasoning · Thinking - Cognitive processes Cognition - Outline Index
Mach bands is the name given to the light and dark zones seen at the onset and offset, respectively, of luminance gradients that lack any photometric basis [1](Figure 1). Although the physical brightness is constant over the distance from the ambient object, the observer perceives an "undershoot" and "overshoot" in brightness at what is physically a step edge. Thus, at a certain point, the observer perceives a slight decrease in brightness compared to the true physical value. Although Mach and many others have suggested this effect, it is caused by lateral inhibition of the receptors in the eye.
It is at first difficult to imagine what empirical (or historical) facts about human interactions with the sources of luminance gradients could explain this gratuitous addition of light and dark bands to the percepts elicited by these stimuli. A more recent interpretation of Mach bands is that the effect closely parallels the accounts of the simultaneous brightness contrast and Cornsweet effects (Lotto, RB, Williams SM, Purves D 1999 a,b) (see DEMONSTRATIONS #02-05 and #07) [2]. By interacting with the objects that give rise to luminance gradients, observers will have experienced that the underlying source of such stimuli is sometimes differences in the reflectance properties of flat surfaces (as in the Mach stimulus), sometimes penumbras, and sometimes differences in the illumination of curved surfaces (among other less frequent possibilities not considered here).
An important aspect of experience derived from interacting with curved surfaces is that the luminance gradients associated with such surfaces are frequently adorned with photometric highlights and lowlights at the beginning and end of the gradient. Highlights are a consequence of the relatively greater amount of light returned to the observer from curved surfaces that are to some degree specular [3] (Figure 2); lowlights arise because objects on the surface of the earth are typically illuminated by indirect as well as direct light [4] (Figure 3) ( see Lotto, RB, Williams SM, Purves D 1999a abd b for a fuller explanation of these phenomena).
Since the source of the luminance gradient in the Mach stimulus in [5] (Figure 4) (and DEMONSTRATIONS #07) [6] could be either a curved surface or a penumbra on a flat surface (or the result of the surface reflectances, which are, in fact, the source of the printed stimulus), the percept elicited incorporates hightlights and lowlights in proportion to the frequency of their historical occurrence as accompaniments of luminance gradients. As predicted by this reasoning, proximal stimuli more consistent with a curved surface as the underlying source (which would normally be adorned with highlights and lowlights) elicit a stronger sensation of Mach bands than oppositely biased stimuli, which elicit such sensations weakly or not at all (see Lotto, RB, Williams SM, Purves D 1999b). This modulation is similar to the enhancement or diminishment of simultaneous brightness contrast or edge effects achieved by manipulating the relative probabilities of the possible sources of the stimulus in the examples given earlier.
The empirical explanation of Mach bands is the same, in principle, as the explanations of simultaneous brightness and Cornsweet effects. The common cause is the genesis of visual percepts according to a strategy in which percepts are elicited as reflexes whose network connectivity has been wholly determined by the history of human visual experience. Because the perceptual responses to the several stimulus categories considered here (i.e., the phenomena in DEMONSTRATIONS #01-07)[7] manifest this strategy in superficially different ways, the common basis of these effects is less obvious than it might otherwise be.
See alsoEdit
- Brightness
- Craik-O'Brien-Cornsweet illusion
- Optical illusion
- Light
- Visual induction
- Visual Perception
Lotto RB, Williams SM, Purves D (1999). Mach bands as empirically derived associations. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 96 (9): 5245-50. PMID 10220451.
Lotto RB, Williams SM, Purves D (1999a) Mach bands as empirically derived associations. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 96:5245-5250
Lotto RB, Williams SM, Purves D (1999b) An empirical basis for Mach bands. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 96:5239-5244
Purves D, Lotto RB (2003) Why We See What We Do: An Empirical Theory of Vision Sunderland, MA: Sinauer Associates.
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Baby Alpaca, Super Fine Alpaca, Extra Fine Merino Wool and Nylon, blended together creating a super soft extra lightweight yarn with the meterage of a 4ply weight. The chainette construction gives the finished fabric a beautiful soft weightless feel, to knit and wear.
Cotton Lustre is an interesting blend of cotton, linen and modal which gives it a wonderful drape with a soft handle. This yarn encorporates the essential summer shades and knits on 6mm needles making it perfect for a quick summer knits. The colour palette encorporates the essential summer shades.
Brushed Fleece is a super soft blend of extra fine merino wool and baby alpaca. The yarn has a soft marl colour effect and is quick to knit making it very wearable, warm and lightweight.


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It's called "The Dark Knight Rises," but that doesn't happen before Christopher Nolan plunges Gotham City into chaos, as divided and tumultuous as Bruce Wayne/Batman's scarred psyche. The third installment of the rebooted franchise is virtuoso filmmaking, a gripping spectacle that is both a sober reflection of our times and a three-ring circus, complete with the lions, tigers and clowns.
When the story picks up from "The Dark Knight," it's eight years later. Batman (Christian Bale) has been sidelined after the Harvey Dent/Two Face scandal that left the public believing the superhero was more a villain. His alter ego, Bruce Wayne (who seems less comfortable when he is in public), has become a Howard Hughes recluse-type joke, roaming around his Victorian mansion in pajamas.
One evening he catches a burglar, Selina Kyle (Anne Hathaway), breaking in. He thinks he has her, but she outsmarts him, though not before issuing him an ominous warning and taking something.
Around the same time philanthropist Miranda Tate (Marion Cotillard) comes into Bruce's life, wanting his support for charitable causes. She's almost too beautiful to pass up for Bruce, who still pines for his dead first love.
Meanwhile, a real villain -- the brutish Bane (Tom Hardy), with a scar running down his back and headgear that obscures his face and turns his voice into a threatening rasp -- throws Gotham City into panic when he and his gang attack the stock market. The panic that ensues -- evoked by Wally Pfister's visceral cinematography -- recalls the turmoil of the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, devastation. It's not long before the metropolis turns into the Paris of "A Tale of Two Cities," with its own reign of terror.
Nolan, who says this is his final take on the character, has put a lot on the table here, but "The Dark Knight Rises" hasn't quite squeezed the comic out of its comic-book roots.
Hathaway's Selena adds a needed cheeky presence as well as sex appeal, and there are still all of those nifty gadgets and vehicles.
A cinematic treat from start to finish, there is more than one way to look at the title to the film. So feel free to interpret or just enjoy it.
While it seems few Oscar pundits are including it as a best-picture contender, it should be.
'Beasts of the Southern Wild'On the other hand, "Beasts of the Southern Wild" is showing up on many best-picture lists. It is a very good film, though part of its charm for some may come from its indie roots.
A sort of magical-realism tale, the film tells of Hushpuppy (Quvenzhane Wallis), a 6-year-old girl who lives on a small strip of land on the Gulf of Mexico. The community, southwest of New Orleans on the wrong side of the levee, is so isolated that the norms of malls, cellphones and the digital age do not apply.
Hushpuppy and her father (Dwight Henry) live in the area known as the Bathtub, which an elderly woman tells her won't last because the waters in the Gulf are rising. Visions of ice caps melting fill her head, as do prehistoric animals. The locals' folklore includes a myth about giant beasts called aurochs, and she fears their return.
However, a real hurricane is on the way and orders come in to evacuate. Meanwhile Hushpuppy's father is dying, hoping to live long enough to give his daughter a future.
"Beasts" is based on a play by Lucy Alibar. She co-wrote the script with director Benh Zeitlin, making his feature-film debut.
There is much beauty and wonder and poetry in the film, and if you see it with fresh eyes you will appreciate it. Because of its setting, the film has conjured up mentions of Huck Finn and William Faulkner, but it's more like a small gem, not a classic.
Still, the film, which has a cool soundtrack, should be celebrated.
'Hope Springs'Love in the twilight is the subject of "Hope Springs," which brings us Meryl Streep and Tommy Lee Jones.
It's a story about a longtime marriage that's gone stale. Directed by David Frankel ("The Devil Wears Prada") from a script by Vanessa Taylor, the film has some underlying intelligence to it, but too often tries to underscore the difficulties of being married for more than three decades with some clumsy methods, such as obvious songs.
Steve Carell plays a therapist trying to help the couple recapture the magic in their relationship.
It's a good subject, though, and the film has its moments, especially with Streep and Jones.
Jennifer Garner in 'The Odd Life of Timothy Green' and 'Butter'There is a Jennifer Garner double bill out there with "The Odd Life of Timothy Green" and "Butter," a film she also produced.
The first, from Peter Hedges, is a whimsical fantasy of Cindy (Garner) and Jim Green (Joel Edgerton), who live in a small town where the main source of revenue - a pencil manufacturing plant - may go out of business.
One evening, after being told they are unable to conceive, the couple imagine the perfect child they would have. They bury a box with a list of their wishes in their garden and later that night - after a mysterious rainfall - a 10-year-old boy (C.J. Adams) appears in their house.
"Butter" has Garner as Laura Pickler, a social climber whose husband's winning butter sculptures have made them local celebrities. When he must bow out of the competition, she takes up the knife with a sculpture of the John F. Kennedy assassination, and goes to great lengths to ensure her win.
"Timothy Green" is sweet and somewhat charming, while "Butter" is odd but does have some laughs.
New filmsThe Dark Knight Rises $28.98/ Blu-ray $35.99
Hope Springs $30.99/ Blu-ray $35.99
Beasts of the Southern Wild $29.98/ Blu-ray $39.99
The Odd Life of Timothy Green $29.99/ Blu-ray $39.99
Butter $24.98/ Blu-ray $29.99
Silent Night $24.98/ Blu-ray $29.99
V/H/S $26.98/ Blu-ray $29.98
Gift setsThe Dark Knight Trilogy (Batman Begins/ The Dark Knight/ The Dark Knight Rises) $38.99/ Blu-ray $52.99
Francis Ford Coppola: 5-Film Collection (Apocalypse Now/ Apocalypse Now Redux/ One From the Heart/ Tetro/ The Conversation) Blu-ray $39.99
Finding Nemo: Five-Disc Ultimate Collector's Edition Blu-ray $49.99
Finding Nemo: Three-Disc Collector's Edition Blu-ray $39.99
Up: Five-Disc Combo Blu-ray $49.99
Ancient Aliens: Collector's Edition $99.95
Older filmsBrazil: The Criterion Collection Blu-ray $49.95
Catch Me If You Can Blu-ray $22.98
Purple Noon: The Criterion Collection $29.95/ Blu-ray $39.95
Mystery Science Theater 3000: XXV $59.97
Silent Night, Deadly Night: Parts 1 and 2 $14.98
TelevisionStar Trek: The Next Generation - Season Two Blu-ray $129.99
The Simpsons: Season 15 $49.98/ Blu-ray $59.99
Eastbound & Down: The Complete Third Season $29.98/ Blu-ray $39.98
World Without End Blu-ray $75.99
Titanic: Blood & Steel $29.98
Black Lagoon: Seasons 1 and 2 Blu-ray $54.98
Hell's Kitchen: Season Eight $19.99
Cagney & Lacey: The Complete Second Season $29.99
Angry Boys $29.98/ Blu-ray $39.98
MusicOklahoma! Starring Hugh Jackman Blu-ray $29.98
Follow Rob Lowman on Twitter at http://twitter.com/RobLowman1


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North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway > Dickerman Mountain > Climber's Log
Dickerman Mountain Climber's Log
[ Sign the Climber's Log ]
|Slushy Day
Date Climbed: Jun 17, 2017
|Snow-free all the way to the waterfall. Shortly thereafter snow took over the trail. Followed the winter route which was pretty easy to identify with all the footprints.
Got fooled several times by the false summits. The slushy snow made for slow going when it came to kicking in solid steps. It was a slog but worth it. Weather was not the greatest, started sleeting on the way down. But the views were still remarkable.
Definitely recommend microspikes, trekking poles, ice axe.
|Posted Jun 18, 2017 2:12 am
|Amazing Views
Date Climbed: Jul 30, 2016
|Beautiful scenery, bit of a slog on the way up with lots of elevation gain. But a solid trail all the way up. The views from the top make it all worth it.
|Posted Jul 31, 2016 12:26 am
|dark descent
Date Climbed: May 17, 2016
|After work hike.
|Posted May 20, 2016 12:10 pm
Date Climbed: Nov 28, 2015
|Hiked up in the dark and reached the summit just before sunrise. It was amazing, totally worth it! Trip report here.
|Posted Nov 29, 2015 11:07 am
Date Climbed: May 30, 2015
|First time up, 2:25 to the top. Spent an hour up top enjoying the incredible views on a beautiful spring day!
|Posted May 30, 2015 10:31 pm
|Dickerman Mtn.
Date Climbed: Feb 22, 2015
|Bluebird day with the last 3rd of the climb on snow.
|Posted May 18, 2015 4:37 pm
|Not a single cloud
Date Climbed: Apr 18, 2015
|Beautiful day and a great climb up to fantastic views. Great look at Glacier Peak to the east. Lots of snow.
|Posted Apr 19, 2015 11:23 am
|Matt Lemke
|Nice early winter hike
Date Climbed: Dec 30, 2015
|We had a beautiful day and a trail was already blasted out through the snow
|Posted Apr 16, 2015 9:31 pm
|Up I Go
|02/15/15 Hiked up and spent the night on the summit. Sunset and Sunrise were incredible
|Posted Feb 22, 2015 1:56 pm
|incredible day
Date Climbed: Jun 7, 2014
|Views are great after the switchbacks. Frequent slides on Big Four were fun to see and hear in the distance. Snow bridges over the creek and other runoffs were becoming very iffy in the afternoon. Fun glissades
|Posted Jun 17, 2014 1:40 am
|Smoke from Wildfires
|Last summer. Lots of switchbacks through forest. Couldn't see much due to smoky skies, but loved every moment of the hike.
|Posted May 1, 2014 4:40 pm
Date Climbed: Nov 24, 2013
|A good day to carry most of my winter gear and use none of it! Great vista!
|Posted Nov 25, 2013 11:19 am
Date Climbed: Sep 26, 2012
|One of my favorites off of mountain loop hwy.
|Posted Jun 13, 2013 10:48 pm
|The views!
Date Climbed: Nov 11, 2012
|Perhaps it was the company, but this was one of my favorites of this year. We watched the first flakes fall on the lower half of the trail, summited with about 1 foot of snow, and descended in the dark after a late (1:30PM) start. Watched the sunset, and soaked in the views of Del Campo, Three Fingers, Vesper, Sperry, etc. etc.
|Posted Dec 6, 2012 1:17 am
|Old favorite
|Good early season conditioner
|Posted Sep 19, 2012 8:58 pm
|Mount Dickerman
Date Climbed: Jul 25, 2007
|One of several trips up this scenic trail - I think the first one was in '91.
|Posted Sep 17, 2012 11:44 pm
|Mount Dickerman
Date Climbed: Jul 6, 2009
|Beautiful Day, great hike with lots of elev. gain
|Posted Mar 12, 2012 5:44 pm
|great hike
|hiked a handful of times. wonderful hike, good views of glacier, sloan, whitechuck.
|Posted Feb 11, 2012 8:07 pm
Date Climbed: Sep 25, 2010
|Great fall hike. Just go early to beat the cast of thousands on a nice day.
|Posted Nov 12, 2011 11:09 pm
|good hike
|Tons of blueberries!
|Posted Oct 18, 2011 6:03 am


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Get an overview of this hotelHotel in Fairbanks with free airport shuttle and restaurant
Popular property highlights
Situated near the airport, this hotel is within 3 mi (5 km) of Pioneer Park, Carlson Center Event Arena, and Growden Memorial Park. University of Alaska-Fairbanks and Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum are also within 6 mi (10 km).
Hotel Features
Along with a restaurant, this smoke-free hotel has a fitness center and a bar/lounge. Free WiFi in public areas, free self parking, and a free airport shuttle are also provided. Other amenities include a 24-hour business center, meeting rooms, and dry cleaning.
Room Amenities
All 148 rooms feature kitchens with refrigerators and microwaves, plus free WiFi, free wired Internet, and flat-screen TVs with cable channels. Other amenities available to guests include balconies, living rooms, and room service.
Guest Highlights
- Proximity to shopping and airport
- Helpful staff
- Clean guestrooms
- Guestroom size
Sophie Station Suites
Hotel Amenities
Hotel Amenities
The hotel offers a restaurant. A bar/lounge is on site where guests can unwind with a drink. Business-related amenities consist of a 24-hour business center and meeting rooms.
A computer station is located on site and wired and wireless Internet access is complimentary. This business-friendly hotel also offers a fitness center, a terrace, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary to guests (available on request). Onsite self parking is complimentary.
Sophie Station Suites is a smoke-free property.
- 24-hour front desk
- Free airport transportation
- Total number of rooms - 148
- Bar/lounge
- Breakfast available (surcharge)
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Fitness facilities
- Free WiFi
- Free wired Internet
- Computer station
- Laundry facilities
- Meeting rooms
- Terrace
- Luggage storage
- Restaurant
- Safe-deposit box at front desk
- 24-hour business center
- Free self parking
- Smoke-free property
Family Friendly Amenities
- Separate living room
- Free Wi-Fi
- Kitchen
- Laundry facilities
- Full-sized refrigerator/freezer
- Microwave
- Cribs/infant beds (complimentary)
Available in all rooms: Free WiFi , Free wired Internet
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi , Free wired Internet
Free self parking
Room Amenities
- Balcony
- Separate sitting area
- Air conditioning
- Free newspaper
- Coffee/tea maker
- Microwave
- Kitchen
- Daily housekeeping
- Private bathroom
- Free toiletries
- Hair dryer
- Shower/tub combination
- Iron/ironing board
- Desk
- Full-sized refrigerator/freezer
- Cable TV service
- Flat-panel TV
- Free WiFi
- Free wired Internet
- Separate living room
- Room service (limited hours)
- Free cribs/infant beds
- Separate bedroom
- Rollaway/extra beds (free)
Where to Eat
Buffet breakfasts are available for a surcharge and are served each morning between 6:30 AM and 9:30 AM.
Zach's Restaurant - This restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Open daily.
Express Room Lounge - Onsite bar. Open daily.
Room service (during limited hours) is available.
Nearby Things to Do
Recreational amenities at the hotel include a fitness center.
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please note them at check-out when you book your room.
- Accessible bathroom
- In-room accessibility
Hotel Policies
Check-in time starts at 4 PM
Minimum check-in age is 21
Special check-in instructions:
Check-out time is 11 AM
Payment types
Children and extra beds
- Children are welcome.
- Free rollaway/extra beds!
- Free cribs (infant beds)!
- Pets not allowed
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy.
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card or cash deposit are required at check-in for incidental charges.
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges. Special requests cannot be guaranteed.
Optional extras
- Fee for buffet breakfast: USD 17.00 per person (approximately)
Hotel Name
- Sophie Station
- Sophie Station Suites
- Sophie Station Suites Fairbanks
- Sophie Station Suites Hotel
- Sophie Station Suites Hotel Fairbanks
- Hotel Sophie Station
- Sophie Station Fairbanks
- Sophie Station Suites Fairbanks, Alaska
We should mention
This property offers transfers from the airport. Guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation. Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms.


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GSA "City Pairs" Airline Contracts Will Save Government $2.8 Billion Next Year Government Travelers to Fly at 69% Less than Commercial Rate
August 16, 2000
Contact: Viki Reath (202) 501-1231
WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) has negotiated rates for about 5,000 routes with U.S. airlines that are projected to save the federal government an estimated $2.8 billion next year.
Through the "city pairs" contracts, 14 airlines will provide heavily discounted air fares to the government for official travelers. GSA gave considerable weight to customers' strong preference for nonstop service, which was awarded in more than 1,500 markets.
"Our city pairs air fare rates are a great example of how GSA's expertise negotiating contracts saves the government billions of dollars every year," said GSA Administrator Dave Barram. GSA began negotiating contracts for federal travelers in 1980.
This year's city pairs contracts will continue to make hassle-free tickets available to federal travelers at about 69% less than unrestricted coach fares offered to the general public. The contract awards and prices are effective October 1, 2000, through September 30, 2001.
Even while the airline industry experiences record traffic volume, the government contract fares continue to be unrestricted at extremely good prices. In addition to significantly lower fares, GSA's city pairs give customers several advantages over commercial fares:
No advance purchase is required.
No minimum or maximum length of stay is required.
The tickets are fully refundable. There is no charge for cancellations or for schedule changes.
The seats are not capacity controlled. As long as there is a coach class seat available on the plane, it can be purchased at the contracted fare.
There are no blackout periods.
The price will not change throughout the length of the contract, enabling agencies to better plan their travel budgets.
Under the City Pairs contract rates, a nonstop, one-way ticket to Washington's Reagan National airport from New York LaGuardia will cost $40 and from Boston will cost $70. Discounts are generally greater in larger markets. More city pairs were awarded this year than last, due to changing travel patterns by the Department of Defense and other agencies.
Awards were made to the following airlines:
Carrier City Pairs Estimated $ Value
Delta Airlines 1,067 $ 250,670,062
U.S. Airways 1,039 $ 286,364,102
American Airlines 578 $ 137,563,930
United Airlines 830 $ 272,569,992
TransWorld Airlines 273 $ 83,492,004
Southwest Airlines 422 $ 53,552,409
Northwest Airlines 93 $ 51,439,166
Continental Airlines 255 $ 74,281,707
America West 156 $ 27,037,964
Alaska Airlines 120 $ 32,558,006
AirTran 52 $ 9,673,460
Midway Airlines 51 $ 7,597,618
Midwest Express 42 $ 9,454,686
American Trans Air 12 $ 1,181,772
Each year, GSA's Federal Supply Service awards contracts for air transportation for official government travel under the City Pairs program. The contracts are competitively awarded, based on the best overall value to the government. Average flight time, offered price, and the type, distribution, and number of flights are all considered in determining the best value.


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"'The best thing to do is acknowledge that it was stupid," Miller said Friday, before turning his attention to Sabres fans. "I appreciate their patience. I know it's a hard situation. I still don't even know the right message because it was just a stupid, useless waste of time."'
Sabres G Miller calls NHL lockout 'waste of time'
January 12, 2013 Submitted by
Via: AP


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Stradium Pant Men's
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Warming up, working out and cooling down, this is a highly versatile, lightweight training pant for outdoor athletes. Body mapped articulation, athletic fit and e3D patterning deliver ergonomic performance and freedom to move. The air permeable Socora™ fabric has built-in stretch and is treated with a DWR finish to repel light precipitation.
Designed to function on the move as well as in static situations, they feature a ¾-length side zip for easy on and off, even over shoes. Arc'teryx e3D patterning creates a comfortable, streamlined athletic fit. Easily accessible hand pockets stow key essentials.
Socora™ polyester taffeta has two-way mechanical stretch for freedom of movement. Lightweight, air permeable and packable, it has a UPF 50+ sun protection rating and a DWR treatment to ward off light precipitation.
These are highly versatile training pants for a variety of conditions and a range of activities. Use them on a cold day's run, warm up in them on race days, or pair them with the Stradium Jacket for a comprehensive post training set up.
Full Feature List
- Moisture-resistant outer face fabric
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Quick-drying
- DWR finish (Durable Water Repellent) helps repel water from fabric surface
- Articulated patterning for unrestricted mobility
- Gusseted crotch
- Locking zipper pulls
- 3/4 length side zippers
- Adjustable elastic waist drawcord
- Elasticized waist
- Two hand pockets with zippers
- Internal mesh pocket located inside hand pocket
- Socora™—100% polyester, 105g/m². Light taffeta weave with 2-way mechanical stretch properties and a DWR (durable water repellent) finish to repel moisture.
- Machine wash in cold water.
- Tumble dry on low heat.
- Iron on low heat.
- Do not use fabric softener.


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SkiErg machines deliver the benefits of Nordic skiing with the technology of an advanced ergometer to measure your efforts. See all of Rogue's available SkiErgs above, including the popular machines from Concept 2. Each SkiErg page includes full gear specs, pricing, order options, photos, and customer reviews.


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In a familiar drama, innocent victims were gunned down
AURORA, Colo. – In an instant, midnight moviegoers who had walked into a theater here for a dark fantasy were confronting a real-life horror.
In a piercingly familiar drama that has terrorized places such as Columbine, Virginia Tech and Fort Hood, innocent moviegoers — one victim was just a few months old — were shot as they sat, gunned down as they frantically tried to escape. Spent shell casings and the smell of gunpowder and some sort of gas arced through the air, according to witnesses. Bullets pierced walls in an adjoining theater.
People who had just minutes earlier tweeted in joy and anticipation of the premier of the Batman movie, The Dark Knight Rises, were crawling, running and hiding for their lives.
MORE: Missionary, servicemembers among victims
MORE: Social media plays growing role in tragedies
MORE: Full coverage of Colorado shooting
These were the incomprehensible scenes that police say were perpetrated by a lone gunman wearing a gas mask, a helmet and head-to-toe body armor. Dressed in solid black, he walked deliberately into a crowded suburban Denver movie theater from a rear door and methodically opened fire, killing 12 and wounding 58, police said. Authorities identified the suspect as James Holmes, a 24-year-old student from San Diego who had dropped out of a doctoral program at the University of Colorado medical school last month.
The nation once again stopped on what would have been just another hot summer day to absorb wrenching scenes playing out on television screens and coursing through social media. Bloodied victims. Yellow police tape. Quivering bystanders. Sobbing relatives. Sober-faced law enforcement authorities. And a president putting politics on hold to speak about America's collective grief.
In Aurora, police on Friday were scouring dual crime scenes, just 4 miles apart.
As a helicopter circled above, police tape snapped in the wind as people who left their cars in the lots last night tried to retrieve their vehicles. Each person retrieving their car was given a ride to it by a uniformed police officer, who then escorted them back out of the area. An adjacent parking area was crammed with network and international TV equipment. Inside the theater, police were busy with the grim task of analyzing the bloody crime scene and, eventually, identifying the victims. Police have not yet notified the families of the victims.
University of Colorado, Denver
This photo from the University of Colorado, Denver, shows James Holmes, the suspect in a shooting at a Colorado movie theater that killed 12. Holmes was in the process of withdrawing from the school's graduate program in neurosciences.
Just a few miles away on this otherwise bright and sunny day, heavily armed police and FBI agents in gas masks cordoned off the area and evacuated five buildings. Aurora Deputy Fire Chief Chris Henderson said the suspect's third-floor apartment was "extensively" booby-trapped, with numerous bottles connected with wires or cord arranged in the front room, along with other unknown devices or items. Police said investigators from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, with the help of a robot, were assessing and then trying to disarm what appeared to be incendiary devices.
Video: Eyewitnesses recount shooting in Aurora, Colo., movie theater during showing of 'The Dark Knight Rises.'
Firefighters stood with hoses ready outside the three-story red brick building. Multiple ambulances were on the scene, and police officers were sporting military-style helmets.
Biology student Kaitlyn Fonzi, who lives below Holmes, says loud techno music began playing in his apartment promptly at midnight.
Against the advice of her boyfriend, Fonzi says she went up and banged on the door, but no one answered. She said she called police to report the loud music, which was playing on a loop and stopped at exactly 1 a.m., she says.
Fonzi says they went to sleep but were awakened by a SWAT team breaking down doors and ordering everyone out. It was 2 a.m.
Fonzi says she has seen Holmes around few times, and that he looks like any other student on the medical and academic campus across the street from their apartment.
"You never really think anything like this is going to happen," Fonzi says while standing outside her cordoned-off building, still in her pajamas.
Cynthia Moran, 53, who also lives in the complex, said she was awakened at about 5:30 a.m. by frantic calls from family when they realized she lived close to the suspect.
"Scary," she said.
'I don't know how I'm still alive'
Inside the theater early Friday morning, some witnesses — immersed in the on-screen action — initially believed the assailant was simply a planned element of the night's exciting premiere.
Jennifer Seeger, 22, and Corbin Gates, 23, childhood friends who work at a local AT&T service center, arrived late to the movie and were seated in the front. They told USA TODAY that about 20 minutes into the midnight showing, they noticed a man dressed in a SWAT-like uniform approaching from the right side of the screen. They initially thought it was part of the show.
But as the shooter approached to what they said was within 3 or 4 feet of them, shell casings started flying around them, and Seeger told NBC that she could feel the heat and smell the gunpowder.
"All you heard was mass chaos and people screaming," she said, adding that the gunman — whom Seeger described as at least 6 feet tall, lean and muscular — did not say anything.
Witnesses said he was a methodical killer.
Gates told USA TODAY that the gunman initially shot into the ceiling, then began aiming at people.
"I don't know how I'm still alive," he said. "The theater was packed. There were a lot of families with young kids and teenagers."
Seeger said she "literally dove into the aisle. He started shooting people right behind me," she said. "I told people to pretend they were dead."
She told NBC: "Every few seconds it was just: Boom, boom, boom. He would reload and shoot anyone who would try to leave."
In an adjacent theater, 18-year-old Joseph Soto, of Aurora, said patrons were first confused because the shots came just as gunfire was erupting on the big screen. But rounds from the adjacent theater, No. 9, started piercing the wall of theater No. 8.
"We found out it wasn't a joke," Soto said.
Soto said theater staff ushered patrons out a side door, warning them to not go out the theater's main entrance. A "relatively calm" evacuation, considering the circumstances, he said.
A federal law enforcement official told USA TODAY that it is believed that the suspect purchased a ticket for the show, and once inside the theater propped open the emergency exit door, which he later entered after retrieving four weapons and a tear gas canister.
The official, who is not authorized to comment publicly, said the suspect then tossed the canister into the crowd and began firing.
Hayden Miller said he heard several of the shots.
"Like little explosions going on, and shortly after that we heard people screaming," he said. He described "people hunched over, leaving the theater."
At a news conference Friday afternoon, officials said Holmes was taken into custody just minutes after police received word of the massacre — "about a minute or a minute and a half" later, according to Aurora Police Chief Dan Oates.
He said the suspect was armed with one AR-15 assault rifle, a Remington 870 shotgun, and two 40-caliber Glock handguns. No motive for the shooting was given.
The federal law enforcement official said the four weapons were purchased within the past six months at Denver and Aurora-area gun shops. The assault rifle was traced to a Gander Mountain gun store in Thornton, Colo., the Remington shotgun and one of the Glock handguns were bought at a Bass Pro Shop in Denver, and the second Glock handgun was purchased at Gander Mountain store in Aurora.
The official also said a cache of ammunition was recovered in the suspect's car, and used magazines were found discarded in the movie theater.
New York Police Commissioner Ray Kelly, who had been in contact with Aurora authorities, said at a news conference Friday that the shooter had dyed his hair red and called himself "The Joker," Batman's arch-villain. Oates offered no confirmation of this assertion.
A shocked nation
Across social media and, of course, face to face, Americans reacted with an incredulity that has become all-too-familiar after mass shootings.
Jackie Mitchell, 45, said he shared a beer and a table at the nearby Zephyr Lounge with Holmes on Tuesday afternoon. Mitchell, a furniture mover, said he'd seen Holmes several times in the bar.
"He'd walk in, order a beer and go sit on the patio by himself." Mitchell said. "He seemed like a real educated dude."
Mitchell said he and Holmes chatted about football on Tuesday. Mitchell said news that Holmes was the suspect stunned him.
"I don't got no hair, and what little I do (have) stood up," Mitchell said.
Some movie theaters around the country planned to beef up security in the wake of Friday's shooting. President Obama called for "prayer and reflection," and the White House later ordered flags at public buildings to be flown at half-staff through Wednesday in honor of the victims.
"We may never understand what leads anybody to terrorize their fellow human beings like this," the president said during a previously schedule campaign stop in Fort Myers, Fla. "Such violence, such evil is senseless — it's beyond reason."
"We are praying for the families and loved ones of the victims during this time of deep shock and immense grief," Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney said from Boston. "We expect that the person responsible for this terrible crime will be quickly brought to justice."
A 'horrific scene'
Denver hospitals began handling the wounded within minutes of the 12:35 a.m. shooting.
Dr. Comilla Sasson was not supposed to work at the University of Colorado Hospital but was called in to replace another physician. She described a "most horrific scene" of victims, some in critical condition, ranging in age from 3 months to 45 years.
A Red Cross spokesperson in Colorado advised residents in the Aurora area to update their Facebook and other social-media accounts to reassure friends and relatives that they are safe in the wake of the shooting.
"Help alleviate that anxiety," Patricia Billinger said.
News of the Aurora tragedy began to spread on Twitter and other social-media sites as early as 3 a.m. ET Friday, a testament to the growing power of the digital medium during a big news event.
Witnesses such as Zach Eastman and Isaac Ramos tweeted within minutes of each other that a shooting had taken place and that their auditorium and the theater had been evacuated. Minutes later, the first details came in, with some tweeting that they saw smoke and then shots. Others said they saw a bloody shooter taken into custody.
As time went on, several witnesses as well people across Aurora began tweeting that they were either safe, wounded, or looking for friends who were not accounted for. By late morning Friday, tweets about possible victims and messages of condolences flooded social-media sites.
On Twitter, topics related to the shooting — Aurora, Theater Shooting, Columbine — trended for hours.
A tearful Kimberly Sinkiewicz, 22, said Friday morning she had not heard from a friend since she posted a Facebook status that she was on the way to the movie.
"She's not answering her phone, no texts," Sinkiewicz wrote.
Sinkiewicz said she registered the friend's name on the Red Cross's Safe and Well site, hoping for an update.
The much-anticipated The Dark Night Rises opened Thursday night around the country. But after the Aurora shooting, the Hollywood Reporter quoted Warner Bros. as canceling its red-carpet premiere for Friday night in Paris.
Warner Bros. issued this statement: "Warner Brothers is deeply saddened to learn about this shocking incident. We extend our sincere sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims at this tragic time."
Who would do this?
As the hours ticked by Friday afternoon, the names and faces of the victims began trickling in.
The dead included a young sports blogger, Jessica Redfield, 24, who had witnessed — and written about — the aftermath of another shooting in Toronto last month. The wounded included a young woman from Baton Rogue who had just returned from missionary work in Haiti. Bonnie Kate Pourciau was shot in the knee and was in surgery Friday morning, according to a relative, Clint Gardner, of Brookhaven, Miss.
Redfield, a National Hockey League blogger based in Denver, had been on the scene of another mass shooting at the Eaton Centre in Toronto in June, after which she wrote this on her personal blog:
"I can't get this odd feeling out of my chest. This empty, almost sickening feeling won't go away. I noticed this feeling when I was in the Eaton Centre in Toronto just seconds before someone opened fire in the food court. An odd feeling which led me to go outside and unknowingly out of harm's way. It's hard for me to wrap my mind around how a weird feeling saved me from being in the middle of a deadly shooting."
Before the movie in Aurora, Redfield tweeted to friends: "Movie doesn't start for 20 minutes."
In her blog post after the Toronto shooting, she had struggled with the same imponderables facing the survivors and witnesses in Aurora.
"Who would go into a mall full of thousands of innocent people and open fire?" she wrote. "Is this really the world we live in?"
Hughes and Strauss reported from Aurora; Raasch from McLean, Va. Contributing: Jefferson Graham in Aurora; Aamer Madhani and Kevin Johnson in Washington; KUSA-TV in Denver; Natalie DiBlasio, Yamiche Alcindor, Marisol Bello, Carolyn Pesce, Maria Romas and Gregg Zoroya in McLean, Va.; Jens Manuel Krogstad, The Des Moines Register; Associated Press
Posted | Updated