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Highlights of the CIHI Strategic Planning Session and Board of Directors Meeting
June 20 and 21, 2013
Fort Garry Hotel
Winnipeg, Manitoba
June 20, 2013, Strategic Planning Session
The Chair, Dr. Brian Postl, called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and welcomed those present. Dr. Postl provided an overview of the meeting theme and focus—to gather intelligence to proactively deal with the issue of remaining relevant.
International Perspectives
Dr. Vivek Goel, Vice Chair, introduced Mr. David Kalisch, Director and CEO, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). Against the backdrop of what the AIHW does, who it serves and the changing environment, Mr. Kalisch provided an overview of six key strategies the AIHW pursues in an effort to remain relevant.
Dr. Goel then introduced Mr. Steven Meurer, Senior Vice President, Comparative Data and Informatics, University HealthSystem Consortium (UHC). Mr. Meurer provided an overview of the success of the UHC's Clinical Data Base (CDB) and the factors behind its ongoing relevance to UHC members.
Canadian Perspectives
Mr. Peter Morrison, Board Director, introduced Dr. Kim McGrail, Assistant Professor, School of Population and Public Health, The University of British Columbia. Dr. McGrail provided an overview of her perspective regarding changes CIHI will need to make to remain relevant, including increasing data linkage across data sets, collecting and analyzing data across the continuum of care (that is, beyond acute care/hospital data), improving the accessibility of data and information (for example, by improving CIHI's website) and producing analytical reports that start with the individual as the unit of analysis.
Local Perspectives
Dr. Postl introduced Ms. Beth Beaupre (Assistant Deputy Minister, Health Workforce, Manitoba Health), Dr. Patricia Martens (Professor, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, and Director, Manitoba Centre for Health Policy) and Dr. Michael Moffatt (Executive Director, Research and Applied Learning Division, Winnipeg Regional Health Authority ). Each guest provided an overview, from his or her perspective as a local stakeholder, of what CIHI needs to do to remain relevant.
Reflections on the Day's Discussions
Mr. David Hallett, Board Director, provided a summary of the key messages heard during the planning session, noting the major opportunities and challenges for CIHI in remaining relevant in the future.
There being no further business, Dr. Postl called for the adjournment of the session at 12:30 p.m. on June 20, 2013.
June 20 and 21, 2013, Board of Directors Meeting
The Chair, Dr. Postl, called the Board of Directors meeting to order at 1:30 p.m. on June 20, 2013.
President's Report
Mr. John Wright, President and CEO, provided an overview of some of the accomplishments of the fourth quarter of 2012–2013. These included various audits under way, new Portal agreements, the status of bilateral funding agreements and human resources (HR) activities. He went on to report on collaborative work done with the Interagency Collaboration Group (ICG) and an overview of the corporate performance indicators.
Report of the Governance Committee
Mr. Morrison, Member of the Governance Committee, presented an overview of the items discussed at the March 20 and May 24, 2013, meetings, including Board succession planning, approval of the 2013–2014 Governance Committee Annual Work Plan, final preparations for the Board Strategic Planning Session, timing of the annual general meeting, an overview of the corporate annual report and the Board self-evaluation results.
Health System Performance
Dr. Jeremy Veillard, Vice President, Research and Analysis, provided an update on the vision, deliverables and implementation status of the pan-Canadian health system performance measurement and reporting program.
Report of the Privacy and Data Protection Committee
Dr. Goel, Chair of the Privacy and Data Protection Committee, presented A Year in Review: CIHI's Annual Privacy Report 2012–2013.
Project Updates
Integrating a Population Health Approach Into Health System Planning and Decision-Making
Dr. Veillard provided an overview of the findings from CIHI's Canadian Population Health Initiative (CPHI) collaborative research project, which examined population health within the context of health system planning and decision-making in Canada.
Harmful Incidents
Dr. Veillard provided an update on the development of a harmful incident indicator, noting that the indicator is a global ("big dot") measure of patient safety in development at CIHI that will measure the number of patients with at least one harmful incident that is treated in the same acute care hospitalization.
Strategic Discussion: Is the Public One of CIHI's Key Customers?
Mr. Wright engaged the Board in a strategic discussion on the following question: Is the public one of CIHI's key customers?
Guest Speaker
The Honourable Theresa Oswald, Minister of Health, Manitoba Health, presented an overview of the use of CIHI data in Manitoba.
Session of Independent Board Members
An in camera session of the Board was held.
Strategic Discussion: How Can CIHI Remain Relevant?
As a follow-up to the Board's Strategic Planning Session, Dr. Postl engaged the Board of Directors in a strategic discussion on the following question: How can CIHI remain relevant?
Project Updates
Activity-Based Funding and Population Risk Adjustment Grouper
Mr. Brent Diverty, Vice President, Programs, provided an update on projects and activities related to activity-based funding (ABF) and the Population Risk Adjustment Grouper (PRAG).
Future Directions for NHEX
Mr. Diverty presented an overview of the results of the Harris/Decima National Health Expenditure Database (NHEX) customer consultation.
Report of the Finance and Audit Committee
Dr. Postl presented an overview of the items discussed at the June 20, 2013, joint HR Committee and Finance and Audit Committee (FAC) meeting, including approval of the CIHI Pension Plan Governance Framework and support for management's response to the Canadian Association of Pension Supervisory Authorities (CAPSA) self-assessment questionnaires.
Dr. David Ostrow, Member of the Finance and Audit Committee, presented an overview of the items discussed at the June 5, 2013, FAC meeting, including approval of the 2013–2014 FAC work plan; a sole-source request for the period October 2012 to March 2013; statutory remittances for the period January to March 2013; the approval of the CIHI Pension Plan Funding Policy; an update on the Quebec bilateral agreement negotiations; and the results from the audit of financial statements of CIHI and the CIHI Pension Plan.
Capacity-Building Strategy
Ms. Louise Ogilvie, Vice President, Corporate Services, provided an update regarding progress on capacity-building initiatives.
There being no further business, Dr. Postl called for the adjournment of the Board of Directors meeting at 10:30 a.m. on June 21, 2013.
Next Board Meeting
The next Board meeting will be held November 14, 2013, in Toronto, Ontario.
For more information, please contact
Francine Anne Roy
Director, Strategy and Operations
Phone: 613-694-6432
Email: email@example.com
Canadian Institute for Health Information
495 Richmond Road, Suite 600
Ottawa, Ontario K2A 4H6
Phone: 613-241-7860
Fax: 613-241-8120


text: A potential freeze bug has been discovered on multitasking devices (basically iPhones or iPods running 4.0 or later). If you quit the app while in the settings or help screens, the app looses response when you restart it. A bug fix has been uploaded to iTunes and should be out soon. In the meanwhile, if you get the error – just doubleclick the home button and force quit The Mouth Harp. When it reloads it should be working again.

subset: commoncrawl


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WITH Division Three front runners Melksham Cosmos sitting out this week's round of fixtures, it will give second-placed Sportzcoach Dragonz United the chance to narrow the gap that Cosmos currently have on them from nine to six points.
Standing in their way is a North Star B side have managed just one win from their last four outings.
A 4-2 victory for Crossblades FC last weekend helped Tim Chilton's side ease their relegation worries. However the Devizes side face another massive game when they visit a Pig & Whistle United side who have climbed out of the danger zone but need a couple more wins to secure their own spot in the division for next term.
Two sides currently in the wrong half of the table are Trowbridge Town Supporters Club and Worton & Cheverell but both have plenty of games to play as they look to move to safety.
This will be a first meeting of the season for the sides.
CHIPPENHAM SUNDAY LEAGUE ROUNDUP, STATS AND PICTURES IN THURSDAY'S GAZETTE & HERALD AND FRIDAY'S WILTSHIRE TIMES AND FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @gazsport and @WTSport


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Wayne D.wrote a review of Flow NXT AT Snowboard Binding on March 5, 2009
Mixed Bag/Great Service
Used these bindings for one full day before the bolt at the bottom of the hinge broke at the summit, and I had to limp it down with no heelside edge. Liked the comfort and thought the control was acceptable. Traded up (way up) to Burton C60s, which I much prefer in terms of responsiveness, with similar comfort.
Backcountry's customer service on this was, however, nothing short of super. Near immediate refund, with discounted UPS return. These folks do it right. A first rate retail experience, irrespective of problem with bindng.


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Golmud's industrial development was insignificant until the rich mineral resources of theTsaidam
Qaidam region (which include coal, oil, and vast deposits of salt and other minerals), Golmud has
began to be exploited, and the city subsequently developed a chemical industry. The fertilizer produced therehelps
has helped to bring parts of the barren region into cultivation. Pop. (mid-1980s est.) 10,000–50,000
2000) 114,330.


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There are a number of big ideas creating buzz as we bring together some of the top online retailers this week in Chicago for the Shop.org Annual Summit. The most interesting for me are #mobile, #social, and #omnichannel.
As I wrote previously, mobile is transforming retail. The other day I found myself on the purchase journey for a new jacket. Now, I have many jackets, and it seemed unnecessary for me to get another one, but I was heading out on a sailing adventure outside my home area of the San Francisco Bay. The weekend prior an unusual downpour arrived and sent everyone running for his or her raincoats and me thinking I needed a special "sailing" jacket for "offshore" use. I began my search online where I hunted for rain gear specific to the sport and hobby of sailing, as I was worried that my normal rain jacket was too flimsy. After spending some time looking at various options I went to a local retailer that specializes in marine activities.
My challenge, and reason for heading into the store, was that I couldn't figure out the difference between three models of jackets. The price point was very different with a range of a few hundred dollars between models, but I kid you not, the description and "features" were near identical. Upon arriving to the store I tried the jackets on, I felt the materials, I talked to the store associates and none of this helped. The key differentiation was missing from the story. So, there I sat, in the store, next to the wall of jackets, staring at my mobile phone researching any website I could find where some customer might have a blog post telling me the difference between these products. In the end, I found a wonderful page describing "Rainwear: How to Choose" from another favorite retailer. On this page, I finally learned why there was such a price difference between a 2-layer and 3-layer construction. And here's the kicker, I walked out of the store not buying the jacket. In this moment of the customer purchase journey, you have to ask yourself, "Am I supporting the buyer through product consideration to purchase? And, am I optimized for any device they may pull out of their pocket during this journey?" If you're not, they're going to be like me, surfing others websites, and most likely buying elsewhere. I'm looking forward to getting the latest feedback on what you, an Adobe customer, need from us to excel in this area.
Now, if you're still with me, you'll remember I mentioned that I sat in the store and surfed the web specifically hoping to find someone's blog entry outlining the difference between these jackets I was researching. In this case I didn't find what I was looking for on the retailers own web property as their ratings and reviews weren't engaged with much and having all the focus be on independent product detail pages didn't allow their customers, including me, to have the conversation about what jacket would have been right for me. There is a huge opportunity for the retailer to bring the conversation back to their own digital experience, whether it's the website itself or a mobile app, those that harness the power of social communities will keep customers on their site and maximize the opportunity for conversion. As soon as a customer can't find the answer, or someone to engage with in a forum or live engagement, they're going to start surfing. And as soon as that happens, it's more likely that they'll find their way to another place to buy the product or find something comparable that meets their needs, never making it back to your website. We see this sentiment and believe it or not, Travel & Hospitality and Automotive industries are beating Retail for the highest average social media sentiment. So, as you wander around the expo floor, and socialize with your peers, let's get the conversation going about how to bring the engagement back to our own web properties. Hint: If you want to see this in action, come see the Adobe booth #441.
If you think about my experience looking for a new sailing jacket, and you contemplate your own recent purchases, I think we'll agree that as consumers we cross channels frequently and expect it all to work together, have the same information, bring the customer experience to life regardless of device or location and recognize who we are across touch points. Though, we'll probably also both agree that this is really, really hard to do…today. All of that said, almost every store I know will accept returned items I bought online and many more are making it easier for me to know what's in stock at the store nearby, let me pick it up in-store or ship to wherever. The challenge I have for you is to connect those experiences for both the consumer and the store associate. Does everyone see the same product information, can both parties engage with the content across any digital touchpoint from mobile phone to in-store point-of-sale? Adobe is pioneering an experience-driven commerce approach and believes this is beyond the desktop browser, but important to all digital touchpoints.
This week at shop.org we'll have an exciting new demonstration of our vision for experience-driven commerce that was a collaboration with Crown Partners. You should also attend the session Big Data: The Next Frontier for Retail, where Adobe's director of industry strategy for retail, Michael Klein, will be speaking. I'm also excited for everyone to see the work Rosetta has done to extend our eCommerce Integration Framework for Adobe Experience Manager to connect to IBM WebSphere Commerce. As our customers continue to tell us they want to leverage capabilities from the Adobe Marketing Cloud for all of their e-commerce platforms, we continue to innovate with our partners such as hybris, Crown Partners, Rosetta and others. More to come… Stop by our booth and say hello.


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Homework Questions? Ask a Tutor for Answers ASAP
Hi again, Cabrina.Here are the answers for comparison to your own:1. C. fuzzy (if referring to a flannel board)2. A. Narrative3. B. practice it until it flows smoothly and use lap cards, if needed.Question #3 was cut off, but I believe this is the correct answer.
Are the missing questions the ones posted on the other question? If so, I can get them, so don't worry about it. If they are different, please post them here. Thanks!---------------------------------------------------------
Hi again, Cabrina.Were you able to see your answers marked in the second file I sent? Please let me know if you have downloaded the file and all is well or if I need to send it again in a different way. Thanks!Best regards,Cher
Hi again, Cabrina and thanks for your reply.I'm so glad you were able to see the answers! Next time I'll remember (or you can remind me lol) that I can't highlight the answers because you are using an iPad!If my answer was helpful, please remember to Rate positively so I am credited by the site. Thanks very much!Best regards,Cher
Hi again, Cabrina, and thanks so much for checking back!I was told that Customer Service contacted you and received no reply, but not to worry. Finally, today, everything was straightened out.
You're a doll for checking! I couldn't communicate with you, because the question was closed, so I'm very happy you sent this reply! I hope you have a great rest of the week, and please remember to request me for any future questions by beginning your post with 'For Cher Only', and I'll be happy to help. Thanks!Best regards,Cher


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After 12 years and more than 150 million consoles sold worldwide, Sony has announced it will stop production of the PlayStation 2. First going on sale in March 2000, the console defined an entire generation of videogames, featuring classics like Grand Theft Auto 3, Devil May Cry and God of War. With the passing of a former titan, it seems right to reflect on what made the PS2 great, and how its legacy lives on today.
The PS2 launched with a surreal £20 million ad campaign, welcoming gamers to the so-called 'Third Place'. Noted Hollywood weird-meister David Lynch, most famous for Twin Peaks and Blue Velvet, directed one advert. It included a man vomiting up his own arm and a duck wearing a sharp suit. It didn't show any game footage, or even mention it was for a videogame console. Instead, it captured the mood of the PS2: mature, dreamlike and vaguely threatening.
This approach extended to the design of the console itself. Its severe lines looked less like a toy than a prop from Alien. The black colour scheme and front-loading DVD tray were designed to blend in under the TV, where it wouldn't embarrass you in front of your friends. It was also the first console that could be propped up on its side: a feature of all current-gen consoles. As a sign of Sony's attention to detail, the PS2 badge on the front could be twisted round, so it always remained the right way up. Sony also lead the way when it came to redesigning its consoles. Over the years, the PS2 dropped size and weight like a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing.
The PS2's main claim to fame was its use of DVDs. It is fair to say the console was more famous for sequels than launching new franchises. Nevertheless, it allowed many series to reach their full potential. The extra space and graphical grunt allowed for the sprawling world of Grand Theft Auto 3, while Metal Gear Solid 2 could pack in more cinematic video than your average multiplex. Whereas 3D graphics on the original PlayStation had been an ugly festival of blocks and sharp lines (looking back, Lara Croft was origami pornography), the PS2 was truly impressive.
The console was also many people's first DVD player, and helped prod thousands into upgrading from VHS. It signalled the start of the videogame console as a full entertainment centre, capable of doing more than just play games. Its influence can be seen today: the PS3 fulfilled a similar role as 'My First Blu-Ray Player', and every current console offers movie and TV streaming.
As well as the improved visuals, developers used the extra disc space for reams of CD quality sound. More than any previous games console, the PS2 became intimately connected to music. The unmatched soundtrack of Grand Theft Auto: Vice City brought back the 1980s in all their neon glory, while the trippy Rez (also released for the Sega Dreamcast) had you flying through a throbbing, beat-matched computer server. Much like Wipeout on the first Playstation, Rez's combination of pulsating visuals and relentless trance music felt like dropping ecstasy at a rave for androids.
As a side effect to this focus on music, the PS2 helped kickstart the rise of the plastic peripheral. Musical party games like Dance Dance Revolution, Singstar and Guitar Hero meant your living room was soon cluttered with miniature plastic guitars and microphones, like you were a roadie for a Smurf rock band. In Japan, even Rez came with a 'Trance Vibrator' that buzzed along to the beat, so you could 'feel the music'. However, the console had some genuine innovations. The EyeToy (essentially a souped-up webcam) allowed players to enter into the game. Controlling the action (and making an idiot of themselves) by waving their arms about, there is a clear link between the EyeToy and the motion controls popularised by the Wii and Xbox Kinect.
Nintendo and Sega tended to rely on the games they made themselves, usually starring their mascots Mario or Sonic, to headline their consoles, But like all cool kids, Sony attracted lots of hangers-on. The PS2 had massive support from third party developers. To date, there have been almost 11,000 games released for the console. Incredibly, new games are still being produced for the aging platform. In Japan, an expansion to Final Fantasy XI will be released this March.
The massive library meant there was lots of dross to avoid (Crazy Frog Racer, anyone?), but also allowed smaller, weirder games to make their mark. The beautiful, touching Ico had you navigate your way out of a sun-bleached castle, leading a princess by the hand. It was followed by Shadow of the Colossus, a startling reinterpretation of David and Goliath. These games came closest to fulfilling the artistic pretensions of the Third Place adverts. They have their spiritual successors in the recent trend for downloadable 'art games', such as Journey on PS3. Meanwhile, the next game from Team Ico, called The Last Guardian, is languishing in development hell.
The PS2 confirmed Sony's dominance of the videogame world. It walloped its two main competitors, the Sega Dreamcast and Nintendo Gamecube. With the failure of the Dreamcast, Sega stopped making their own hardware and started producing games for other companies' consoles. Meanwhile Nintendo was reduced to a shadow of its former self. It had a major rethink, and emerged with the gloriously odd Nintendo DS and Wii. Sony's console was so commanding, it even outsold the Playstation 3 for the first three years the replacement was available. To date, more than 150 million PS2s have been sold worldwide.
Coming of Age
If the original PlayStation represented the difficult teenage years for videogames (outgrowing the primary colours of childhood but covered with unsightly boils) the PlayStation 2 had the swagger and self-assurance of adulthood. The PS2 was when gaming stopped being a child's toy, moving out of the playroom and into the living room.
Huawei stomps onto Windows Phone scene with Ascend W1
Asus Qube Google TV box is unveiled
Huawei Ascend Mate review round up


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(Nyonya Recipe)
1½ heaped rice bowls rice, washed and
drained well
1 - 2 level tablespoons Q.B.B. Ghee and
1 tablespoon margarine
35-40 raisins
75 g cashew nuts
½ small tin tomato juice or 3
tablespoons tomato sauce
4 cloves (bunga cengkih)
110 g ginger, peeled, pound finely and
squeeze for juice
5 cm cinnamon sticks (kayu manis)
2 star anise (bunga lawang)
2 shallots, peeled and sliced
2 pips garlic, peeled and minced
Heat pan and add ghee and margarine.
When oil is hot, add onions, garlic, cinnamon sticks, cloves and star
anise. Stir until fragrant. Add cashew nuts and raisins.
Stir a few times. Add rice and stir well to mix ingredients.
Dish out mixture and put into rice cooker. Add ginger juice,
tomato juice and pinch of salt, then add water to cook rice.
Stir rice during cooking. When cooked, serve with meat or
chicken curry.
More Nyonya Recipes


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Campsite Challenge
|2015 winners Psychedelic Rainbow Village
To extend the spirit of sustainable festivation into the campgrounds, Planet Bluegrass is again running How Green is your Grass? - the 9th annual creative campsite challenge. Coordinated by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics and Planet Bluegrass, this contest encourages all of us to raise the bar for sustainable camping by honoring campsites that excel in achieving the highest levels of the Leave No Trace philosophy.
2015 Contest Winner
Congratulations to 2015 Campsite Challenge winners Psychedelic Rainbow Village from Centennial, CO. This village of 5 families in the onsite campground has been attending Folks Fest for more than 15 years! "While we reduce, reuse & recycle at home, it is so great to be with so many others who practice at an event these same values - as well as teach us all new ways to live and be more sustainable! Indeed, it takes a Village to reinforce our values and to learn and grow in community!"
As winners of the 2015 Campground Challenge, their camp will be receiving a pair of 3-day passes and camping for the 26th Annual Rocky Mtn Folks Festival (August 19-21, 2016).
How Do I Participate?
The contest is open to all campers in any of the Planet Bluegrass-managed campgrounds. To nominate your own campsite or one of your neighbors:
- Lisit the Leave No Trace booth to fill out the 1-page entry form – explaining how your campsite exhibits cleanliness, sustainability, and creativity. Get a jump ahead of your campsite neighbors and download a copy of the application form here.
- Stop by the Leave No Trace booth each day to view all the campsite entries and vote for your favorites.
- Planet Bluegrass will select the grand prize winner after the campground pack-out is complete on Monday. The winner will be announced in the next "Notes from the Planet" email and on this web page.
How Do I Win?
We will be judging on three simple criteria:
- Cleanliness. Are you repackaging the food you bring? Are you keeping a tidy campsite? Are items secure and not susceptible to wind gusts? Are you safely disposing of cigarette butts?
- Sustainability. Are you separating your recyclables, compostables, and then placing them in the correct bins at the campsite waste stations? Are you reusing products (cups, utensils, water bottles, bags) instead of trashing them? Are you using any alternative energy sources to power your campsite? Did you bike or carpool to the festival; are you offsetting carbon emissions using wind credits or carbon offsets? Will you pack out as much as possible when leaving? Did you do anything to reduce your homes' energy while attending the festival?
- Creativity. Does your campsite have a theme? Are you utilizing any unique and innovative camping techniques?
What Do I Win?
|2015 winners Psychedelic Rainbow Village
Two campsite finalists will be chosen each day – one random and one chosen by staff. Each winning campsite will receive a prize package including:
- New Belgium Beer
- Planet Bluegrass music
- Leave No Trace memberships
Planet Bluegrass will select the Grand Prize winner of 2017 3-day passes and camping after the campground pack-out on Monday.
For More Information
Share your thoughts about the contest, or even a little pre-contest "bet you can't top our solar-powered strobe tuner" smack, over at the Festivarian Forum.
Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics is an educational, nonprofit organization dedicated to the responsible enjoyment and active stewardship of the outdoors by all people, worldwide. Visit at www.LNT.org or call 1-800-332-4100


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WYCOMBE'S hopes of surviving the drop were left hanging by a thread after a dismal performance at relegation rivals Chesterfield.
Wanderers' dire showing against the Spirerites matched the miserable weather and, in a game they dared not lose, they capitulated.
Defeat keeps them four points clear of safety but the manner of the defeat did little to inspire hopes that Wanderers can pick up any points against Charlton, Notts County and Sheffield Wednesday in their final games of the season.
That just leaves a home game against Oldham next weekend but a win against the Latics would still not be enough to get them out of the dropzone.
Wycombe flew out of the blocks at the b2net with Spirerites stopper Tommy Lee forced to rush off his line to deny Chris Hackett and Stuart Beavon and Craig Eastmond both firing wide in the opening five minutes.
But the heavens well and truly opened in Derbyshire making conditions difficult for both sides but it was Chesterfield who dealt with them better in the first-half with home forward Alex Mendy scuffing his 12-yard shot into the arms of Blues stopper Nikki Bull on 17 minutes.
The pouring rain made players edgy on the ball and unable to dictate play with Eastmond seeing a low shot blocked but it was the Spirerites who carved open a better chance on 25 minutes.
It came from a right-sided cross which saw Mendy climb highest but send his header high over the bar.
The home side had been getting a greater grip on the game and took the lead three minutes later when Wycombe failed to clear a corner and top scorer Craig Westcarr was able to tap in his 11 th of the season from a yard out.
It was a deserved goal for Chesterfield who played with the urgency you would expect from a team who could have ended the day relegated.
The same could not be said for Wycombe who laboured in the rain and failed to create a real chance of note before the break.
And they shot themselves in the foot early in the second.
Centre-back Gary Doherty had found himself in a position to try a toe-poke towards goal moments after the restart but it was Chesterfield who struck the all-important second goal through a low Franck Moussa drive on 47 minutes.
And it got even worse as Wycombe's pathetic collapse was complete five minutes later when Mendy was allowed to run unchallenged and curl in a third.
This was against a side who had not scored more than once on their own patch since November 5.
Blues boss Gary Waddock had nothing to lose and threw on teenage Matt McClure and the striker came close to reducing the deficit with a flashing shot wide of the post.
But there was no quality up front for Wanderers who posed no questions for an equally brittle Chesterfield defence to answer and looked resigned to their fate of an immediate return to League Two.
And their miserable afternoon was complete when Jordan Bowery was allowed to rifle a fourth goal into the bottom corner with 11 minutes to play.
Only a miracle can save them now.
CHESTERFIELD: Lee, Talbot, Thompson, Ford (Smith 85), Ridehalgh, Juan, Randall, Moussa, Mendy, Bowery, Westcarr (Boden 46).
Subs (not used): Allott, Whitaker, Ajose.
Booked: Bowery (73 mins).
WANDERERS: Bull, McCoy (McClure 62), Doherty, Stewart (Johnson 42), Basey, Eastmond, Lewis, Bloomfield, Hackett (Ainsworth 58), Strevens, Beavon.
Subs (not used): Laing, McNamee.
Booked: None.
Att: 5,087.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest Wycombe Wanderers news.


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Burlesque Dancer CostumeItem #: 19015
Add the product directly to your basket by clicking the checkbox
Burlesque Dancer Costume
Here comes a sexy burlesque style saloon girl outfit!
This Burlesque Dancer Costume is a sexy vaudeville style outfit for fancy dress parties or dnce shows. The sexy blue and black burlesque dress brings the chorus girls and vaudeville shows of the 1920s to mind, so it makes a perfect saloon girl costume, too.
With our Burlesque Dancer Costume you an turn yourself into an authentic chorus girl in the blink of an eye. Match it with a Fishnet Tights , Black, elbow-length gloves off and our Mary Jane Pumps matt and you are guaranteed to be the centre of attention of any fanc ydress party. The costume includes the dress, the choker and the elegant headdress. The dress is made of black velvet and blue cloth with a black floral flock print. It features lace details at the front and back, blue sequin trimming at the front and black fringe. The peplum made of jagged organza is a sexy eye-catcher which emphasizes the burlesque style of this hot outfit. The choker features a sequin and fringe detail matching the dress. The headdress of our gorgeous Burlesque Dancer Costume is a comb with organza and feather detail.
Size: one size fits German size 36 - 38
Additional information on the Burlesque Dancer Costume:
- Colour: blue and black
- Costume includes: dress, choker, headdress
- Material: 100% polyester


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Investor Relations Home
Sky Petroleum, Inc. is an emerging oil and gas company investing in international exploration and development activities. The Company's common shares trade on the OTC Bulletin Board under the symbol SKPI.OB.
Sky Petroleum, Inc.'s core management and technical team comprise proven oil and gas professionals, with extensive international experience in all aspects of exploration, operations and venture capital markets.
To build near-term shareholder value, management's focus is to seek opportunities where discoveries can be appraised ...More >>
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Rihanna and Chris Brown Secretly Still Together?
Are Rihanna and Chris Brown keeping a secret relationship? A new report suggests that the pop star and singer/rapper, who ended their relationship after Brown assaulted Rihanna in early 2009, have been privately hooking up for nearly a year.
According to Us Weekly, multiple sources have confirmed that the pair have been casually meeting up, even though Brown is currently dating model Karrueche Tran. "They can't get enough of each other. I don't see it ending well," says one industry source quoted for the piece.
Music Star Hookups and Breakups
However, a rep for Brown tells Us, "He and Rihanna are just friends… He's not cheating." A rep for Rihanna did not comment for the story.
In Feb. 8, 2009, Brown was charged with two felonies stemming from a brutal attack on then-girlfriend Rihanna that took place in his car. Both singers were scheduled to perform at the 2009 Grammys later that evening, and both performances were canceled. Brown was sentenced to five years' probation and six months' community labor in Aug. 2009.
A court order that forbid Brown from coming within 50 yards of Rihanna was lifted last February, and in May, the pair began following each other on Twitter. "Its f---in twitter, not the alter [sic]! calm down," Rihanna told upset fans at the time.
Earlier this month, Brown's manager told Billboard that the singer would not be doing interviews in the near future, instead opting "to concentrate on performing and recording" after scoring his first No. 1 album, "F.A.M.E.," last year. Meanwhile, Rihanna's single "We Found Love" returned to the top of the Hot 100 last week.


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Nikos Hecht, an Aspen businessman and commercial property owner, was cited in April for misdemeanor trespassing for being on the Skyline Ridge Trail near Sardy Field. It was his conversation with an Aspen/Pitkin County Open Space and Trails Department ranger, however, that raised brows.
Hecht paid the $100 fine and avoided a court date for the incident at the trail, which leads into the Sky Mountain Park open space. In paying the ticket, he acknowledged that he was in an area that is closed to all users from Dec. 1 to May 16 to protect wildlife.
But Hecht denied seasonal ranger Trevor Washko's account of their encounter, which includes Hecht saying his home was "right up the road and that he had contributed $1 million toward preserving the Sky Mountain Park."
"He suggested that his contributions were probably paying me to police the area and that I should issue him a warning," Washko's report says.
Hecht denied that. In the end, asked about his culpability, he said in an interview: "If you mean will I pay this extortion rather than go spend a day telling a judge about the improper signage, and that apparently some ranger is telling stories about me, I may just agree to contribute this fine as a conservation gift, as I offered there on the spot both for me and the other woman."
"I don't threaten anyone ever," Hecht said in May. "This is absolutely nuts. I was slightly annoyed; you'd barely perceive it."


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hair growth remidies???
BY: h8ingmycurls ( ? ) | 1.25.14
3 Answers
No one can grow hair as long as rapunzel's. Hair just stops growing at a certain length, which is different for everyone. Maybe you've reached yours?
If this isn't the case, try massaging hair oils into your head before you shower. It stimulates blood flow and helps with hair growth.
BY: anonymous ( ? ) | 1.28.14
Biotin supplements
BY: SweetCassiiee ( ? ) | 1.27.14
Try hair pill supplements from your local pharmacy. Also I've heard Hairinfinity works really well, kind of want to try it myself
BY: ShantellyJ ( ? ) | 1.26.14
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A colorful variation of the classic white potato vichyssoise, chilled for summer enjoyment.
With the arrival of blueberry season, a new combination with tropical flavors makes an unusual summer treat.
This decadent Hummingbird Bundt cake with cream cheese filling and pineapple cream cheese glaze is a Southern classic.
The versatility of ricotta cheese and in-season strawberries combine for simple, lightly sweet cake.
A pitcher of fresh strawberry iced tea beats any 'flavored' mix, hands down.
This version of chicken salad cooks the dressing slowly over heat until it thickens, creating a creamy sauce that has a sweet-and-sour edge.
This strawberry cakes makes a wonderful breakfast or brunch treat, not too sweet, but hearty and fresh with the burst of juicy berries.
This versatile Mexican dish can fill tacos, stuff a torta, top a salad, or be served with rice. Best of all, this is the kind of meal the whole family can help prepare.
Served in individual ramekins or a larger dish, an old-fashioned cooking technique gets a update as an elegant appetizer or the star of a cheese plate.
Add to the classic asparagus mimosa by roasting the asparagus to deepen the flavor.
This unique take on macaroni and cheese features pastrami ribbons and cheese tossed in a creamy, mustardy sauce, and topped with a hint of toasty rye breadcrumbs.
Pasta tossed with this rich sauce makes a great family meal. Serve with a simple side salad and a loaf of warm crusty bread, and an easy weeknight dinner turns elegant.
Show someone you care with this classic chocolate cake. Simple, with no gimmicks or difficult frosting, this cake is just plain, old fashioned good.
Wow guests with this fondue appetizer, which can easily be prepped ahead of time. Caramelized onions, nutty Gruyère, and creamy brie add layers of flavor.
Apply the same method of a summer fruit crisp to root vegetables for a savory winter crumble. Serve it as a main course for a vegetarian meal, or as an impressive side dish along side a roast.
Easy prep work and inexpensive ingredients make a rich stew with complex flavors that can easily be frozen and saved for later.
Come home to a warm and inviting house filled with savory smells and this easy soup ready for dinner. Serve with a dollop of yogurt swirled on top and some warm naan on the side.
Serve this from-scratch chicken and rice soup with chive muffins and you'll have a meal that will warm your belly and soul. Freeze some to have on hand for a quick dinner.
Warm and creamy with a punchy celery taste, there's nothing like homemade cream of celery soup. Serve it with a big hunk of warm bread or an apple and blue cheese grilled sandwich.
Can't get enough eggnog this time of year? Bake it into a cake! Pound cake serves as a versatile base and makes this festive treat easy to transport.


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June 2, 1985
Summer Fiction That Is Worlds Apart
By ALICE HOFFMAN
By Ann Beattie.
nn Beattie has claimed her fictional territory with cool, clever prose and a brilliant eye for detail. In her short stories and two previous novels, ''Chilly Scenes of Winter'' and ''Falling in Place,'' her stance is that of a witty reporter charting the manners of the civilized and the chic among the post-60's generation. Her elegant aloofness alternately charms and maddens, and in the ironically titled ''Love Always,'' her most comic novel thus far, she poses some hard questions about her own art within a structure drolly modeled on the soap opera.
On a perfect Vermont June day, we meet a rarefied group of hippies turned yuppies, the staff of a trendy magazine aptly called Country Daze. Hildon, its editor, is married to Maureen, but in love with Lucy Spenser, who in turn moons over Les Whitehall, the lover who brought her to Vermont only to desert her. As Cindi Coeur, Lucy writes a facetious advice-to-the-lovelorn column for Country Daze, inventing both questions and answers. In Lucy and Hildon's circle it is not uncommon to videotape one's own parties, a la ''The Big Chill,'' but Miss Beattie makes clear that what is going on here isn't camaraderie, it's narcissism. Over 30 and childless, these people recoil from commitments in comic terror. Their concerns remain juvenile; even weight loss is attacked with adolescent fervor (''Lucy was in the kitchen, sitting on the counter, having her daily lunch: a diet chocolate ice cream cone. What might be mistaken for sprinkles was actually a Diet Trim capsule she had broken into a bowl'').
The characters in ''Love Always'' are defined, as they are in soap operas, not by interior complexities and perceptions, but by the role they play in others' lives and by external details. As described by Miss Beattie, these details are stinging and quirky, but some of the limitations of the form ''Love Always'' parodies are inevitable. There is so little emotional content that when lives collide it is not easy to tell who's who. We know that ''Hildon accentuated his handsomeness by appearing to be very casual. The shorts he wore were permanently yellowed from swimming in the crater lake. The cotton shirt was custom-made and cost $75'' -just as we know that Les ''was tall but not too tall, handsome but casual, one of those men who could change the filter on an air conditioner and your perception of what kind of a day you had had with equal dexterity'' - but even when we manage to distinguish these men, it is impossible to gauge the appeal of one against another.
When Lucy's 14-year-old niece, Nicole Nelson (a k a Stephanie Sykes, a star of the soap opera ''Passionate Intensity'') arrives from Hollywood with her monstrous dog, St. Francis, and the specter of her agent, Piggy Proctor, looming each time the Federal Express truck careers down the driveway with a taped message, Miss Beattie wryly plays off the plot of Nicole's soap opera against the plot of ''Love Always'': ''the lonelyhearts adviser whose own life was a shambles; her niece pining for a dishwasher, but involved with a man found naked in the woods; her boss cheating on his wife with her; Lucy's former lover writing letters from afar that were half pleading and half accusatory.'' The book is filled with delicious melodrama, and it is difficult to judge which of the plots is sudsier. As Stephanie Sykes, Nicole is ''an abused child from a broken family, a teen-age alcoholic who was being rehabilitated by a woman internist and her husband.'' In real life, Nicole's mother (Lucy's sister), Jane, has sent Nicole away for the summer so she can secretly marry a tennis pro in his 20's.
THERE are times when Miss Beattie's humor falters - in her depiction of Maureen's self-help feminism, for instance - but she is always on target when confronting the excesses of Hollywood, and Nicole's arrival insures plenty of those. Nicole's head is so crammed with gossip that for her everything relates to Hollywood, even in bucolic Vermont: ''A butterfly flew past. It was a Monarch butterfly. Nicole knew that because she had read for a part in a TV movie called Monarch.'' Some of the novel's funniest scenes take place in Hollywood: for example, when Piggy discovers that his writer has stolen the title of Nicole's soap opera from W. B. Yeats (''The best lack all conviction, while the worst are full of passionate intensity'') and when we are privy to a catered funeral at which Valium is doled out to the mourners.
The impact of Hollywood as a manufactured community reverberates throughout ''Love Always,'' and the characters know a great deal more about movie stars than they do about one another. In part, Miss Beattie is writing about the search for, and the inability to find, a community. Hildon claims to be ''simply fascinated to live among'' country folk ''after a lifetime in the Ivy League,'' but his circle has little to do with, and is mostly puzzled by, the locals - ''more of those mysterious people who thought something and felt some way Lucy couldn't fathom.''
Though Lucy receives a couple of letters from local people (one from an ardent greenhouse worker, the other, filled with misspellings for local flavor, from an outraged farmer whose sheep Nicole's dog has killed), our only encounter with genuine Vermonters is a brief - and hilarious - appearance of two Keystone Kops named Pasani and Brown, who have a love-hate relationship with McDonald's and speeders. A shared addiction to gossip leads Nicole to the townspeople, and it is utterly believable when she strikes up a friendship with the Federal Express man who delivers Piggy's tapes (''To Poodle,'' she writes in an autograph to his wife, a ''Passionate Intensity'' fan, ''may you always be top dog'') and when she begins an affair with a local boy whose room is papered with her photographs.
Miss Beattie has often written about people haunted by obsessions, not passions, and in a lyrical passage she captures the heartbreaking yearning for lost youth: ''All over America, people were driving around hearing a song and remembering exactly where they were, who they loved, how they thought it would turn out. In traffic jams, women with babies and grocery bags were suddenly eighteen years old, in summer, on the beach, in the arms of somebody who hummed that song in their ear. They ironed to songs they had slow-danced to, shot through intersections on yellow lights the way they always had, keeping time with the Doors' drumbeat.''
In ''Love Always'' it is not merely passion that has been lost in some mysterious way, but compassion. Too selfish or too confused, the characters themselves are mystified: they know something vital is missing from their lives, but they are not certain what. When Lucy gets a letter from Les signed ''Love Always,'' she doubts him and wonders if this is simply another way to say ''Yours truly.'' ''I've never been closer to anyone than I am to you,'' Hildon tells Lucy at the end of the novel, ''yet I'm able to just leave.''
Miss Beattie skillfully raises serious questions about the nature of love and the inability to connect, and it is disappointing that she provides no answers. Her intent is not to analyze but to reveal, and this she does with assurance. Lucy's instruction to her niece holds true here: ''All main characters aren't heroines, you know.'' If there is a heroine in this novel it is the author's own detached, knowing voice, a voice that is itself in question.
In a fascinating turn, ''Love Always'' becomes an exploration of the novelist's own style and concerns, attempting both to satirize and to explain authorial distance. When Andrew Steinborn, a ghostwriter who yearns to be taken seriously, is hired to write the novelization of ''Passionate Intensity,'' one reaction to his first novel is archly noted: ''You've created a character who has no humanity, no humor, no saving graces - but I warn you, the reviewers are going to pounce because you've been so uncompromising.'' The distinctions between cruelty and a cold eye are considered and played with, and in a telling letter Myra DeVane, a reporter sent to do a feature on Country Daze, writes to Lucy: ''I guess that I have been thinking about how graceful you were, and although it is none of my business, I wondered whether you might not be paying a price for being that way. . . . People want to have an easy fix on other people, and since you are Cindi Coeur, it's easy to assume that someone who satirizes our shortcomings has set herself above us.''
FOR those who wonder if too much of Miss Beattie's talent is spent on icy exposure, ''Love Always'' is both a retort and an appeal. Miss Beattie is one of the most graceful writers we have; at times her prose is nothing short of exquisite. It is such sheer pleasure to read the dialogue in ''Love Always,'' we almost don't care what the characters say to one another. But when we really do listen, the absence of desire and urgency is more than unsettling - it's chilling. It is difficult to believe that elegance and compassion are such great enemies; should Miss Beattie ever reach the same conclusion, one can only imagine the heat she could generate.
Alice Hoffman's most recent novel is ''Fortune's Daughter.''
''I find it impossible doing a long project in New York,'' Ann Beattie said recently over drinks at a West Side bar. ''At 5 it's time to tune in to the day's messages, and there's always something to distress you.'' So she ventured to Vermont last summer to work on ''Love Always'' - and got some help from her friends. Jay Parini, a poet, and his wife helped her find a house to rent. ''They fed me dinner every night, encouraged me, drove me to lakes,'' she said. Miss Beattie passed her manuscript around among a half-dozen friends - ''good readers,'' she calls them - and they helped her with continuity and rearranging chapters. ''When they said that I hadn't carried a joke far enough, I'd write another chapter.''
After the summer, she decided to give up living in New York for Charlottesville, Va., where she had taught at the University of Virginia in 1975 and where she is now renovating a house. ''I couldn't pick up the beat,'' she said of New York. ''I wanted to live in a place where I could get up in the morning and put on jeans and get in the car, turn on the radio and listen to rock.'' Life in New York is ''all theater, out of control, cynical.'' Is New York really all that cynical? ''No,'' she said, ''but it's an idea worth considering.''
Miss Beattie bristled when asked how she feels about being considered the pre-eminent chronicler of what she calls ''60's fade-out.'' ''It makes me feel foolish, like a character on 'Sesame Street.' There's Big Bird and Beattie. I'm much happier when I come up with something I didn't know before. I'm more concerned with language and tone than with finding the perfect thing a 60's hippie would be wearing now.''
Miss Beattie has gone back to writing stories, and she also has two nonfiction book projects in the works. She first discovered she liked journalism when she did a article on Grant Wood for Life magazine. ''Nonfiction is playing hookey from fiction,'' she said. ''You can't take things one stage further as you can in fiction.'' - Robert R. Harris
Return to the Books Home Page


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I will upgrade my 3g to the 4s. I messed around with the S II and it was ok. The cameras were nice on the S II but I love my unlimited data and only use 150 or so texts. 4G is just a gimmick like 3D phones right now.
The author of this article thinks people purchase phones because of software and user experience rather than hardware, which he believes is much better on the iPhone. My question to him is, have you even tried and used the new Galaxy S 2? I don't believe you have because I haven't met one person that would prefer the iPhone over the Galaxy S 2 after using both side by side. There is no comparison! The GS2 is hands down a much better device, both in user experience, OS and hardware. I know it is hard for Apple fans to admit that their beloved device has been kicked off the mountain top, but it has. Sorry! The truth is the truth!
i´m switching to S II, im sick of the dam IOS.
When did Apple get kicked off the mountaintop? If Samsung had all this technology and didn't do a thing with it....shame on them! Everyone is trying to topple Apple, not Samsung. I know if I had created something that would change how everyone uses a phone, I wouldn't let anyone steal it from me.....Samsung needs to go back to the drawing board and get it right the next time around. We'll see how many people climb back up the mountain on October 14th. Excuse me, where's the line for Samsung Galaxy S2 or any of Samsung products....ok, they have Apple beat on the HDTV's...I'll give them that!
I too have used both the Galaxy S II and iPhone and personally don't like the Galaxy much at all. It's probably one of the best Android phones, but that's not saying much. not mention touchwiz ripped off iOS. I'll be sticking with iPhone for quite a while. And if i ever did switch, I'd go to windows phone before I'd go android. Specs aren't everything. Apple tries to make and overall better, quality product But looking through out the phone on how to make it better. And don't just add Megapixels or processor speed. They go above to make the camera and performance actually better, not just make it look good on paper.
Quite frankly, I have not encountered a single Android phone that has been able to best iOS in terms of software and UI experience. Anyone who buys a phone on specs alone is setting themselves up for fail. Apple realizes that after a certain point, specs don't matter. Why battle over who can throw in the best RAM, or external media slots, or convex glass screen (lol, had to laugh at that)? I enjoy several manufacturers when it comes to phones/tablets/netbooks/computers, but my personal preference has been iPhone since the 1st Gen. I've said it before, and I will say it again: you know a mobile OS is difficult to use when your coworkers are constantly asking for help with their "droid"; can't seem to figure out their "droid". I tell them to get an iPhone, and when they do- no more questions! iOS is as simple as slide to unlock and go! I don't consider myself a fanboy, I'm not, I own several different prodcuts, like my Pantech P7000 phone that I am using right now. I do consider myself a pro at using iOS, and am still utterly lost in Android. Android is the least logical UI I have ever seen! No offense to the fandroids... //ramblings
To all you who are typing long *** posts about the galaxy s 2 being better than the iphone... Sure it has better specs, but whats the point in having better hardware when the software can NOT take advantage of it? im sure that when the 4s comes out, and we run a side by side comparison with the galaxy, they will be NECK AND NECK, no questions about it, iphones are behind the times with hardware, but the os makes up for it. yes the OS is a bit plain, but guess what, it works, if you think the galaxy is better and is "king of the smartphones" prove it, the fact is its not.this argument is very much stupid in terms of hardware. it really comes down to, android or iOS. most people like iOS BECAUSE everything is in one place and easy to get to and they dont end up having 3 app stores to search through to find the latest version of angry birds. and also, android is a bit flimsy in the apps that are available on it, i know there are more good quality apps coming out but its really hard to do since the screen size on EVERY ******* phone is different, with apps on the iphone, its 3 screen sizes only, and 2 of those screen sizes just include putting a @2x on the end of the image and thats why we have jailbreaks, because we like to spice things up a bit, themes tweaks etc, sure those features are on android but you find an amazing theme that you can live with you cant.and no, im not a fan boy... i have a android tablet. and its not the best experience in the world, but neither is iOS, thats why there have been 5 versions of ios
Apple started this, it will end with Apple.Apple's patents is so generically stupid yet they can get an injunction upheld, Samsung's patents is specific which Apple admittedly used without permission injunction request should be upheld not just in Europe but world wide.If I wanted a new phone it would not be a 4S.
I think that the Android OS is still in it's infancy compared to the nearly 5 years worth of iOS development. Android is well on it's way, but that's not to say that Android has hit the mark with a phone like the Galaxy S2. After the Apple Event quasi-live-blog here at ModMy, I posted about my disappointment with expectations I had regarding the next iPhone. I fully anticipated a larger screen and new form factor, but I was still impressed with the internal hardware advancements and the incredible array of software features (some, of which, were designed for i4S). The iPhone and Apple experience, the emotional and tactile response to owning and operating an iDevice, is very powerful. Samsung and other competitive mobile telecommunication manufacturers aren't quite up to par on consumer enjoyment. Having said that, I can honestly tell you that I would be a multi-platform device consumer. I will get the iPhone 4S to upgrade my iPhone 3G, but I would also own the Galaxy Tab because of positive previous experiences with non-telecommunication Samsung products.
Everyone is entitled to opinions on this thread. I hope we can just relate to these opinions and stop getting so belligerent.
1) WP7 - didn't take long to realize the voice recognition and lack of OS features left it in the dust. I hope that the mango update has fixed most of these
2) Moto Atrix - must have had some issues in the initial OS that has been updated, but the laggy screen response and poor GPS had me return it.
3) Borrowed an Inspire - like the HTC Sense on it, but ended up having to give it back after about a month - the memory issues with using external storage were an issue. Miss the way Sense linked all the contact accounts so neatly between FB, Tw, email, etc...
4) Switched to Verizon for the Thunderbolt. Had to recharge about every 7-8 hours even with a task killer and JuiceDefender Ultimate installed. It was an early model and mine froze up several times. Took it back and switched back to AT&T and my iPhone 4. Made me really think about what I want my phone to do. Call, text, tweet, take pictures of my kids, and look up directions on the internet
5) Just bought a galaxy S2 on AT&T on 10/2. The responsiveness and screen are really nice. Android Gingerbread and the hardware work really good together. Its a nice phone. BUT - I am so used to have an iPhone - the extra steps for texting, moving back and forth between screens, having to hit the menu key all the time, and not having notifications on the lock screen (I had iOS5 beta) are the reason I am returning it today. I am gonna miss the screen the most - stunning.
If I was already an Android user, then none of these would be issues - the SGII is the best Android on the market, IMHO, and will make many users happy. But its not much faster or more intuitive to use than my iPhone 4. So, the 4S is most likely to best it in performance and user interface capabilities. (Played with a Bionic in the store - the camera angle of view is the SAME as the iPhone VIDEO field of view - too narrow for pictures and was another deal breaker)
One thing that many people miss in comparison is the user experience. I have been a MobileMe subscriber for a couple of years - that whole wireless cloud sync - having appointments and contacts transfer to all my connected devices (PC at work, Mac at home, iPad in my work bag, daughter's iPod) is really a bonus - which will all be included with iCloud.
So, I while agree that the SGII is better than the iPhone 4 and on par with the 4S as far as specs go it comes down to what we have become accustomed to. If I were to totally switch to Android, a year from now I wouldn't know what I was (or wasn't) missing. But I think the Android OS is missing many of the little Ease Of Use features that make iOS so powerful and user friendly - especially with v5 coming soon. But, Android has its own features that iOS lack - and much of that is customizations to the UI and how individual apps behave with notifications and sounds.
For me, I'll stick with my 4. Everyone has a different opinion and which is why there is market competition - choices for the masses.
I think the App Store concept is the biggest factor in prevent people switch between iOS and Android. If you've paid for many apps it's tough to switch and possibly have to buy the same apps again. Well that's how I see it anywho
You must not be able to read since the person who posted before you clearly stated that he has tried both and the S 2 wasn't as good as the iPhone. I will also state i have tried both and i would not switch to the S 2. The hardware doesn't matter if the OS can manage its self efficiently which Android devices can not.


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The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Paul Goggins): I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for Northampton, North (Ms Keeble) on her success in obtaining this debate. She set out eloquently and powerfully the complaints made by her constituent, Mr. John Tero, about his medical treatment while he was in prison in 2001. He believes that the Prison Service failed to give him proper access to adequate health care and treatment, despite his making repeated complaints about the symptoms, including substantial weight loss, of what turned out to be a serious medical condition. We are, of course, all deeply concerned to hear about his current state of health.
In my reply, I intend to refer to the wider context of health care in prisons, and the general improvements that are taking place under the partnership established in April 2000 between the national health service and the Prison Service. However, I shall begin by responding to the specific points that my hon. Friend made on her constituent's behalf. I know that she will understand if I do not go into the same detail as was possible in the exchange of private correspondence that she has already had with my predecessor and the director general of the Prison Service. Medical confidentiality limits the amount I can divulge in public. I will try to deal with as many of the points that my hon. Friend made as possible, but I will in any event write to her to give a full answer to every question that she has asked me this evening.
Mr. Tero was first received into Woodhill prison on 15 December 2000. He told staff that he had recently seen his GP about a medical problem and he subsequently underwent successful surgery for that problem in May 2001. On his return from surgery on 4 June, he had a full medical examination. He did not at that time report any significant symptoms. He did, however, report symptoms of a different condition on 16 July 2001 when he was seen by a prison doctor. The doctor prescribed medication.
My hon. Friend asked whether it is standard practice for a prisoner to be returned to his cell after surgery. That is a clinical decision in each case. Normally, prisoners are returned to the health care centre on their immediate return from hospital. Health care centres have cells, of course, and I do not know whether it was one of the cells in the medical centre to which Mr. Tero was returned. That is one of the points that I will clarify in the letter I send to my hon. Friend.
Later in July he was seen again. Similar symptoms had persisted and further medication was prescribed. He was seen again in August and September, and at a further appointment with a doctor on 4 October his weight was recorded. It had remained stable since the beginning of June. On 9 October 2001, Mr. Tero was
The investigation revealed a significant condition that merited further attention. The hospital made an appointment for 19 December. As my hon. Friend said, by coincidence that was the same day as Mr. Tero won his appeal and was released from Wymott. Prison staff advised him of the importance of keeping the hospital appointment but he preferredperhaps understandablyto return home to Northampton and consult his own GP. Staff at Wymott informed the hospital about what had happened and subsequently forwarded details from the hospital to the GP.
My hon. Friend and her constituent are clearly dissatisfied with the responses that they have received to date from the Home Office and the Prison Service. I know that, in addition to bringing this matter to the attention of the House in this debate, my hon. Friend has referred the matter to the prisons and probation ombudsman. Although the clinical aspects of the complaint fall outside his jurisdiction, he hasI understandagreed to examine the alleged administrative failings in the case. In addition to any other material that has been provided to the ombudsman, I shall ensure that he receives a full copy of the Official Report for this debate, so that all the information that my hon. Friend has provided tonight may be fully considered.
Ms Keeble: I wrote to the ombudsman for the second time on 27 May, and I have not had a reply yet. Is my hon. Friend saying that he has now agreed to take on the case, as he had not done so previously?
Paul Goggins: It is my understanding that the ombudsman has accepted the case, but I undertake to confirm that and to ensure that there is proper communication from the ombudsman to my hon. Friend, as that is the least that should happen in terms of indicating to her whether the case is to be considered. I assure her that I will look closely at the ombudsman's findings and take any remedial action that may be called for in the light of his conclusions.
My hon. Friend raised two specific questions. One was in relation to the payment of compensation, which she says is owing. I have in front of me a copy of a letter that she received from my hon. Friend the Member for Leeds, Central (Hilary Benn) dated 11 February 2003, which refers specifically to an agreement that Mr. Tero would be offered £45 in compensation. I cannot understand why that payment has not been made in the months since, and I intend to follow it up as a matter of urgency, to make sure that all the problems are ironed out and that the payment is properly made.
Ms Keeble: As of today, that money had not been paid to my constituent, and he is very ill.
Paul Goggins: I assure my hon. Friend that I will follow the matter up first thing in the morning and ensure that any payment that is outstanding is made. I understand the circumstances in which that would happen.
My hon. Friend's second question was whether I would offer an apology to her constituent. Given my undertaking that I will follow up the inquiry with the ombudsman, I need to look at his findings before I make any firm commitment in that area. I also confirm tonight that I have decided to ask the director of prison health to arrange for an independent clinical review of this case and to report the outcome directly to me. I hope that my hon. Friend will therefore be reassured to some extent that I want to deal with this case in as open and honest a manner as possible.
Ms Keeble: I understand that there are always cautions about making an apology, but does my hon. Friend accept that this matter is now six months on? If an ombudsman's inquiry would have sufficed, I would have left it at that. It seems, however, that at the very least my constituent has been given some very shoddy treatment, and it is fair that he should receive recognition of the fact that he has been badly treatedfrankly, I would not treat a dog like that. That should be recognised and he should be given some form of apology for the suffering and hardship that he has experienced, which has been needless.
Paul Goggins: Rightly, my hon. Friend argues forcefully and powerfully again on behalf of her constituent. There is at least a possibility in relation to some of the assertions that have been made that that information would not be shared by the Prison Service or the medical staff within it. It is my responsibility as a Minister to weigh all the facts and to make a proper judgment in the light of all that as to whether an apology is owed. I will be the first to offer that apology if I judge that it is merited. I promise my hon. Friend that I will follow this issue through as swiftly as I can.
As I said at the outset, this debate takes place within the context of a major reform in the delivery of health services for prisoners that began in 2000 and has already led to significant improvements as services become mainstreamed within the national health service. With the exception of acute care, prison health services used to operate more or less independently of the NHS. This led to deep concern about growing isolation and the emergence of significant differences in the standards of health care afforded to prisoners compared with those enjoyed by the general public. In response to those concerns, the Government established a formal partnership between the Prison Service and the NHS in April 2000. Two new joint Home Office and Department of Health unitsa prison health policy unit and a prison health care taskforcewere appointed to lead and manage a programme that was designed to modernise prison health services, increase NHS engagement with the prison population and introduce much improved performance monitoring arrangements. The organisational changes were accompanied by new investment to tackle substance misuse, mental health problems and communicable diseases.
The Prison Service has committed more than £60 million to improve health care centres and services in the three years since the new approach was adopted. All
A prison health work force strategy has been developed to broaden the base from which prison health workers are drawn, improve access to training and promote professional development, which was recommended by the report of the working group on doctors working in prisons and an earlier report on prison nursing. The appointment of a head of health care training at the Prison Service training college has also enabled robust and targeted training for health care workers to be developed.
Occupational standards have been introduced that reflect good NHS practice and provide the basis for an NVQ in custodial health care. Work is under way to ensure that prison-based health care staff have access to the same training opportunities as their NHS colleagues and that work force development confederations include prison staff in their planning and development activities.
Many of the worst examples of unsuitable and inflexible health facilities are being replaced or improved as part of a four-year capital investment programme that is worth more than £70 million. New purpose-designed health care centres are being built at Birmingham, Pentonville, Chelmsford, Hull and Feltham, where the quality of the existing health care facilities had frustrated modernisation and the introduction of much needed improvements to the quality of care for prisoners. Eight further substantial improvement schemes are planned for Liverpool, Norwich, Cardiff, Durham, Holloway, Parkhurst, Brixton and Dartmoor prisons. Improving arrangements for information sharing between the Prison Service and the NHS will help to improve the continuity of care for people as they pass between the community and prison.
Our plan for improving primary care in prisons is designed to increase integration with primary care planning through local primary care trusts. The publication of "Developing and Modernising Primary Care in Prisons" in June 2002 provided a framework for the development of primary care in prisons and practical advice on how change could be achieved.
The extent of mental ill health in the prison population is a particular cause of concern. In December 2001, we published a strategy for modernising mental health services in prisons that outlined how the provision of prison mental health care is expected to develop during the next three to five years. The plan included the development of day care provision andbuilding on the commitments in the NHS planof mental health in-reach services for prisoners with severe and enduring mental illness.
The plan stated that, by 2004, the 5,000 or so prisoners who will have a severe mental illness at any one time should receive more comprehensive mental health services in prison. All prisoners with severe mental illness will receive treatment and no prisoner with a serious mental illness will leave prison without a
Research indicates that current reception screening processes fail to identify up to three quarters of those prisoners who have a severe mental illness. To rectify that, new triage-based reception screening arrangements were developed and piloted at 10 local prisons during 200102. They focused on identifying and managing prisoners' immediate and significant health needs on their first reception into prison. The work is closely linked to the development of the Prison Service's suicide prevention strategy. I am pleased to say that the evaluation of the pilot sites shows a substantial improvement to the identification of prisoners with a severe mental illness. The introduction of the system to all local prisons is being phased in over a 12-month period from April 2003.
Prisoners often have to wait too long to obtain both emergency and routine dental care. Fewer than 20 per cent. of prisons are currently meeting NHS waiting times for access to routine and emergency dental services. The recently published "Strategy for Modernising Dental Services for Prisoners in England" sets out how we intend to develop and modernise the provision of dental services within prisons. A three-year investment plan has been put in place to support its implementation, which will enable regional prison health development teams to ensure the implementation of dental service action plans for those prisons currently not meeting access targets.
A new standard for clinical services for substance misusers was issued in December 2000. It is consistent with current Department of Health guidelines and forms the basis for ensuring that substance misuse services are available in all local prisons and remand centres to a level of quality that is at least comparable to those in the general community.
Every prison is now expected to have in place a range of measures aimed at reducing the risk to prisoners, their families and the wider community of the transmission of
On 1 April 2003, financial responsibility for prison health was transferred from the Home Office to the Department of Health in England and the Welsh Assembly. Funding transfers of £117.7 million for England and £2.2 million for Wales took place on that date. That was a logical development of the partnership between the Prison Service and the NHS and will ensure that prisoners can access the same range and quality of health services as the general public.
A development network of prisons and primary care trusts has been established to provide a test-bed for that transfer at operational level and is likely to lead to some PCTs assuming effective commissioning responsibility for prison health services in their localities from April 2004. By April 2006, responsibility for commissioning prison health services in England will be fully devolved to NHS PCTs, thus effectively mainstreaming that activity within the NHS.
The Government have made new money available to support that development. The Department of Health will be making available significant additional resources for prison health in England worth an extra £46 million a year by 200506. That is more than a third more than the Prison Service spent last year on health services. It will be targeted on areas of real need, including mental health, drugs and infectious diseases. I assure my hon. Friend and the House that the programme of modernisation and reform of prison health care is very much on track.
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Press Release
Release Date: January 27, 2009
For immediate release
The Federal Reserve Board on Tuesday announced the execution of a Written Agreement by and between Northpointe Bancshares, Inc., Grand Rapids, Michigan, a registered bank holding company, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago.
A copy of the Written Agreement is attached.
Last update: January 27, 2009


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Cancer specialists and leading charities have demanded urgent government action after a study found lung cancer patients are waiting so long for treatment that some are being told that their diseases are incurable.
The report, by doctors at the Beatson oncology centre in Glasgow, found that 29 lung cancer patients had to wait an average of 13 weeks between their diagnosis and treatment.
In six cases, patients were told their tumours had grown so large while they were waiting - sometimes tripling in size - that they were now deemed beyond successful treatment.
The report's authors say the problem affects the whole of the UK and applies to other forms of fast growing cancer as well.
The government's cancer tsar, Michael Richards, con ceded yesterday that existing waiting times were unacceptable.
"The study proves what we have long suspected, which is that the waiting between getting your diagnosis and treatment can actually be associated with changing from being potentially curable to being incurable," he said.
He said more needed to be done, both to bring in new radiotherapy equipment and to train staff needed to operate it.
"We have not yet committed the extra money but we are developing a national cancer plan - I believe this is a high priority and that we will be putting in these new machines."
The government has said no one should wait more than two weeks to see a specialist in suspected cancer cases.
However, Gordon McVie, director-general of the Cancer Research Campaign, attacked ministers for a lack of urgency.
"The government and Scot tish executive know there is a solution. They are saying they are going to provide it but in the meantime people are still waiting.
"The solution is meaningless to them as they will be dead before it is in place."
The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, discovered that sufferers can wait on average around 13 weeks, and sometimes up to six months, between their first hospital visit and the commencement of treatment.
Noelle O'Rourke, one of the report's authors, said it was a small study but it had national implications.
"The waiting time is not just a Glasgow problem, it is a national problem."
She also said that while no cure can be guaranteed with lung cancer, waiting times played a critical part in survival rates and she warned that it was not just lung cancer patients who could be dying needlessly as a result of delays. "It is any cancer patient who has a potentially fast growing tumour and that applies to lung cancer, head and neck cancer, cervical cancer and a number of other tumour types," she said.
Dr O'Rourke said it was important doctors admitted the problem. "If we don't stand up and own up to how bad the system is at present there's going to be little scope for changing it."
John Toy, medical director of the Imperial Cancer Research Campaign, said the problem would only be solved by funding for more equipment and more specialists.
"This situation is down to the lack of equipment," Dr Toy said.
Many tumours have a "doubling time" of six weeks, meaning the longer the delay in treatment, the more difficult it becomes for doctors to treat the cancer.


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Not much of a finale ratings bump for Fox's The X Factor. The performance wrap of the singing competition last night averaged a 3.3/10 among adults 18-49, down a tenth from last week's Top 4 performance show. In X Factor's defense, 18-49 TV usage was down 7% week-to-week from 8-10 PM. But X Factor faced CBS' regular lineup in originals last week vs. far weaker competition last night. And its lead-out, new Fox comedy I Hate My Teenage Daughter (2.1/6), was not impacted by the usage drop — it was up 17% from last week. Even if it pulls even with last week in the finals, this is still a disappointing performance for a finale of a big talent competition. Fox (3.0/9, 9.8 million total viewers) easily won the night. Against X Factor, NBC's game show Who's Still Standing? (1.7/5) was down 11% from Tuesday night. The only other original last night was CBS' Home For The Holidays special (0.8/2), which was up a tenth from last year.
RATINGS RAT RACE: 'X Factor' Performance Finale Slips, 'Teenage Daughter' Rises
5 Comments
The talent on the X Factor has been quite good. The problem with the show is that it is over produced and the focus is on the judges in far too many ways. This is the problem for many of the shows…they are all about the judges…and this gets boring very quickly.
I believe most people watch these shows to truly see new talent developed…and not the silly distractions the judges bring to the mix.
Finally, it must make contestants feel great when one of the judges apologizes because as the 'mentor' THE JUDGE chose the wrong song which probably resulted in the exit of the talent.
The bad news is that X Factor has had a difficult freshman season. The good news: Anything to make Simon Cowell less smug!
While I watch the show, it's more like driving by a car wreck and taking a look. I really don't enjoy the experience, I feel depressed afterwards and wish I never looked.
Once this is off the air, i won't miss it and I won't ever think about it.
They spend so much time on the judges, yet the judges have very little impact. And all they do is gush over their mentees.
I did laugh when that British dufus host who keeps annoyingly saying "in no particular order"… when it came down to the final 2 when that little girl got kicked-off (due to Nicole's inability to actually be a judge) and the British guy again said "in no particular order"… well, dude, in this case, it was in a particular order because the next name you mention in going home.
This needs to be said. The main problem with The X-Factor is that it is RIGGED!!! Chris Rene… NO WAY is he even close to a talent. He is bad 1990s Karaoke..PERIOD! Just plain awful and unwatchable! For the past 3 weeks they have the nerve to say "going through to next week in no particular order" Rene's name is called first EVERY TIME…yet its in no particular order?.
The guy couldn't get through even on sympathy votes! so clearly its rigged…we are not all stupid or brain dead….well, maybe brain dead for watching this dribble!
If X-Factor wants a season 2. Rene better not be made the winner or runner up. I can assure you…he will not sell ANY records or concert tickets. He cannot sing, his rap game is crap 1990s rap and he doesn't even look like a star and never will!.
The TALENT of the show! Melanie without a doubt…already sounds and appears like a star with a REAL superstar voice, and Josh is pretty major as well.
SO, we will see. Overall the show is plain awful!! Nicole needs to go, Jones is ok…just eye candy! Simon is simon, and no one doubts LA's talent and history, but c'mon is he so bias and full of it with Chris, when its clear Rene has zero talent. Nothing against Chris, he is just not a singer or a rapper…and should never have made the top 10.
And yet FOX is bringing this show back for another season…first thing they must do is get a new host and a few new judges and bringt in people who know how to evaluate talent. Again, the show needs to focus on the talent and NOT on the judges, which hurt AI a few years ago.


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Choose the Best! - Young Living Essential Oils - Tulsa
Max and Karen Hopkins, Young Living Royal Crown Diamonds
Saturday, September 28, 2013 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Who's Going
San Francisco, California
London, United Kingdom
Florence, Italy
Event Details
Saturday, September 28, 2013
$10 per person
Leadership and Testimonial Session
You won't want to miss this! Come hear from several Young Living distributors as
they share their allergy, asthma, pain and health related testimonials that have come
from using the all natural Young Living therapeutic grade essential oils.
Diamond Express Meeting
with Max and Karen Hopkins
Young Living Diamonds Max and Karen Hopkins will share why Young Living Essential Oils are the
best therapeutic grade essential oils on the market. From the seed to seal process, learn what sets
Young Living apart from other oil companies. This session will be great for new and seasoned Young
Living members as Max and Karen will discuss their journey to becoming Young Living Diamonds.
Don't miss this event!
Book Table · Testimonial Booth · NingXia Red Bar · Door Prizes
The event will be held at:
Spirit Bank Event Center
10441 S Regal Blvd Tulsa, OK 74133
When & Where
Spirit Bank Event Center
10441 South Regal Boulevard
Saturday, September 28, 2013 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Add to my calendar


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Now it is time for the real visits to start.
"I am going to leave the Under Armour All-America game Friday and take an official visit to Florida. Then I visit Clemson the next weekend, then Alabama, and then Georgia. I am going to try and squeeze in one more official visit too," Adams told Scout.
His mother will accompany him on these visits and he wants to hear her thoughts on each school.
"I have seen these schools a lot and I know just about everything I need to know about them, so I just want to see how my mom likes them. She has been to a few schools with me, but she will get more time with the coaches this time, so that will be good."
Some feel Clemson could have the lead as we enter 2013, so what does Adams say about that?
"Clemson is a great school and I like them, but I don't have a leader.
"I am going to narrow my list down in a few days and I plan to announce that on January 14, but I am still not going to name a leader."
The official visits will take place, the narrowing of the list, and the decision could be made in January, but he will not announce his decision until February.
"I will be committing on Signing Day," he said. "My mom is going to help me out with my decision, but I will be the one making the call.
"I will go to the schools where I feel at home."
Adams is the No. 1 defensive tackle on Scout.


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Americans for Tax Reform chief Grover Norquist joined Alex Wagner on MSNBC'sNOW to discuss the current status of negotiations between President Barack Obamaand Congressional Republicans to avoid the upcoming fiscal cliff. Norquist told the MSNBC host that he thinks President Obama is overplaying his hand in these negotiations, as he did in his first term, and Obama will cede the political advantage to Republicans because he "doesn't have the mandate he thinks he does.
Norquist To MSNBC: Obama 'Thinks Somebody Made Him King,' Doesn't Know 'Where He Stands In The Universe'
Current Status: Blessed (1)
Seeded on Tue Dec 4, 2012 1:15 PM
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WB2MIC Vintage HF Station
On December 23, 1963 when my novice license arrived I used the Hallicrfaters HT40 transmitter (top left). Next to it is the HA5 VFO. The BIG receiver is the Collins R390A tuned to the 7058 KHz FISTS club frequency. The Morse key is a 1913 Vibroplex bug made of brass on a gloss black base. 50 watts.
73, Jozef Hand-Boniakowski WB2MIC


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AUS-SAGEN-L ArchivesArchiver > AUS-SAGEN > 2004-12 > 1104384795
From: "Louise Leslie" <>
Subject: Arrival in South Australia 1847
Date: Thu, 30 Dec 2004 16:38:59 +1100
Dear Listers,
with some more help from the wonderful people on this list, I am now
confident that I know which William POLLARD I am researching.
(This has taken some years!)
From his obituary I have learnt that William POLLARD came to South
Australia, from Cornwall, with Mr H Adams of the Moonta Mines.
I am now hoping to be able to find out more about where in Cornwall he came
from, and why he came to South Australia. (I believe Moonta was a mining
town, but I would not have ever figured him to be a mining man)...
so, is there an 'easy' way to find out what ship he came on, what family
came with him, and if this Mr H Adams might have 'sponsored' him to come?
Is a death certificate from 1908 going to give me his parents names, where
he came from, or anything else that is not noted on the index?
any thoughts on this would be appreciated.
thanks again for all the help
This thread:
|Arrival in South Australia 1847 by "Louise Leslie" <>


text: When it comes to diabetes you only spend an average of 63 minutes each year with your doctor. The rest of the time that means that your diabetes care is up to you. It's important to establish personal health goals to get you on the path to a longer life free of diabetes complications. Work… Continue reading


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Westpac Banking Corporation said reports that it will cut 6000 jobs in the next two years are grossly inaccurate.
Chief executive
In a statement released on Thursday, Westpac denied media reports about 6000 staff would be cut in that time.
"This speculation is grossly inaccurate," the bank said.
Westpac had 38,479 full-time employees at September 30, up 6 per cent on a year earlier.
"We have been open that while we will continue to employ additional people it is likely that the overall number of staff will decline, largely as a result of reducing duplication across our businesses and introducing more efficient systems and processes, all to benefit customers," Westpac group executive of people and transformation


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NCL Pearl - good and not so good: Norwegian Pearl Cruise Review by sargeant
Overall Member Rating
NCL Pearl - good and not so good
Destination: Western Caribbean
Embarkation: Miami
The Pearl is looking a little tired now and is in need of a revamp. Both Decor wise and also the Entertainment. The decor has simply dated over the years and definitely needs to be refreshed. I was surprised to find that although I know the ship is clean it felt a little grubby.
Now for the entertainment. I hardly know where to start it was so bad. We were bored to tears every night. The Cruise Director, and English guy called Matt, has now gone to the Epic and I feel sorry for them. The singing and dancing was amateur at best one of the lead girls could sing but couldn't dance and the other girl could dance but couldn't sing. We had a juggler who was the most dour entertainer I've ever had the misfortune to encounter, and he could barely juggle! He could manage two More items but struggled with three and then there was this big build up to him balancing a TV on his head while he juggled...emmm he did it in the dark so I still don't know whether he managed it or not. Anyone between the ages of 18 to 60 were left with basically no entertainment....unless Frankie Valli (who??) is your thing. There was a tribute band called 'oh what a night' - which we're my sentiments exactly.
The ports were mainly good. Great Stirrup Cay should be taken off NCLs itinerary as it is basically a construction site. If you want to lie in the sun while the construction guys are plastering a building behind you? or digging a site, or driving around on the four wheel drives, well then you'll love GSC so.
As usual the staff and crew were super, the food was very good and as far as we were concerned we enjoyed the trip overall. Will I travel with NCL again? Well I'm not sure that we will, maybe we'll try the new ship. Less
Published 01/15/12
Cabin review: MA11084 Mid-Ship Mini-Suite with Balcony
Balcony Stateroom 11084. There seems to be a water system above this cabin. You will hear water swishing around all night (a bit unnerving on a ship!). And frequently hear LOUD flushing sounds through the day and night.Read All Mid-Ship Mini-Suite with Balcony (MA) Reviews >>
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Read Cruise Critic's Norwegian Pearl Review >>
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First Cruise Ever!
Carnival is not my favorite cr...
Excellent boat and cruise
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Five Things To Know About Nicole Murphy
Nicole Murphy has been dating Michael Strahan since 2007, but she definitely hasn't been faithful that whole time. How do I know? Well, Strahan, who is known for his defensive prowess on the gridiron, placed a GPS tracking device in her car, not once, but twice. And she was still able to carry on a clandestine affair with Universal Records A&R exec Demetrius Spencer for nearly a year. I'm guessing she learned a thing or two about keeping a secret during her marriage to Eddie Murphy, who has a thing for transsexuals. Learn more about her, after the jump… [New York]
- Nicole and Eddie Murphy have five children, four daughters and one son, together. Before they were married she thought she'd only have two children.
- Nicole received $15 million in the divorce settlement, which was finalized in 2006.
- She not only received a hefty amount of money after the divorce, but also listed two palatial estates, one in Calabassas and another in Sacramento, for $8,495,000 and $6,500,000, respectively.
- Nicole started her modeling career when she was 10.
- And she's friends with Melanie Brown, who gave birth to Eddie's daughter in 2007. I'm sure y'all remember the paternity fiasco between Eddie and Scary Spice.


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Friends may call 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 5, 2014, at Herlihy-Chambers Funeral Home, 173 Park Ave
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Yesterday was the 20-year anniversary of Short Message Service, or SMS — more familiarly known to you and I as simply "text messaging."
Thing is, despite being a major success and a financial boon for telecoms, the world hasn't seen a ton of innovation with the technology in all that time … and that's no good for SMS, what with Facebook (NASDAQ:FB) and others going on the messaging offensive.
Facebook is launching a new messaging app in a few countries. While FB currently has a popular messaging service, it requires a Facebook account — the new app will only require users to provide a phone number.
That's it.
The service will start on Google's (NASDAQ:GOOG) Android platform in India, Indonesia, Venezuela, Australia and South Africa (and no surprise, these countries have nose-bleed fees for SMS). Users will still have the option of signing in with their Facebook account.
Another interesting player trying to alter the messaging map is WhatsApp, which delivers 10 billion messages per day. It is the No. 1 paid app on Apple's (NASDAQ:AAPL) App Store, and has seen more than 100 million downloads on Google Play.
Not to mention, Apple itself has been pulling an end-around on SMS with its own rival service called iMessage.
All this is really bad news for mobile carriers like Verizon (NYSE:VZ), AT&T (NYSE:T) and Sprint (NYSE:S), which have relied heavily on SMS revenues. As InvestorPlace's Brad Moon recently pointed out, the number of SMS messages declined in the third quarter for the first time ever.
Carriers likely won't experience a sudden plunge; the fact remains that while smartphones are an everyday part of many Americans' lives, feature phones still are widely used.
Yet as smartphones get cheaper and cheaper, their market share inevitably will continue to increase, leading to a long-term deterioration for SMS revenues. So unless the carriers come up with something new (which is so far not apparent) or raise other service prices to compensate (which would leave them vulnerable to lower-cost providers), there could be a crimp on long-term growth.
Tom Taulli runs the InvestorPlace blog IPO Playbook, a site dedicated to the hottest news and rumors about initial public offerings. He is also the author of "How to Create the Next Facebook" and "High-Profit IPO Strategies: Finding Breakout IPOs for Investors and Traders." Follow him on Twitter at @ttaulli. As of this writing, he did not hold a position in any of the aforementioned securities.