text:
Post-market Review of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Medicines
Page last updated: 29 May 2017
COPD is characterised by a chronic inflammation of the lung tissue, and obstruction of the airways that cannot be fully reversed by medication. Air flow obstruction leads to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing, and production of excess mucus. Symptoms can be exacerbated by irritants such as infection or exposure to noxious particles or gases, most commonly cigarette smoke.
A number of medicines are available to reduce the symptoms of COPD, and to reduce the frequency and severity of exacerbations. The primary medicines are bronchodilators (beta2-agonists, anti-cholinergics/muscarinic agonists, phosphodiesterase inhibitors and methylxanthines) to reduce airway obstructions, and inhaled corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
In October 2013, the Drug Utilisation Sub-Committee (DUSC) of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) reviewed the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) utilisation of indacaterol and budesonide/efomoterol for COPD. The review of indacaterol utilisation identified co-administration of multiple long-acting beta agonist (LABA) products in some patients, which was considered a significant quality use of medicines issue.
The review of budesonide/eformoterol found a trend towards higher initiations in winter which the DUSC considered may indicate use for the treatment of respiratory tract infections or cough, a quality use of medicines issue. The relevant DUSC meeting outcome statement is available below:
- DUSC Outcome Statement – October 2013 (PDF 307 KB)
- DUSC Outcome Statement – October 2013 (Word 59 KB)
In July 2014, when considering the submissions for indacaterol/glycopyrronium and umeclidinium/vilanterol the PBAC noted that while forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) has previously been accepted as a surrogate outcome in the treatment of COPD, the PBAC were concerned that this may not translate into clinically meaningful benefits to patients. These submissions did not provide evidence of reductions in exacerbations or hospitalisations, outcomes that the PBAC considered could also be used to demonstrate effectiveness. The PBAC further noted concerns by the DUSC that the introduction of these fixed dose combinations may lead to patients being initiated on the combination product earlier than clinically appropriate and without adequate titration of the individual components. Further information is available in the PBAC Public Summary Documents for July 2014 for these medicines.
In August 2015, the PBAC recommended a Post-market Review of COPD Medicines, noting that a number of new combinations, including long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA)/LABA and LABA/inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) combinations, have been listed recently on the PBS and that there was concern about use of multiple products.
The purpose of the Post-market Review of COPD Medicines is to review the utilisation, safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness of PBS listed COPD medicines, and to address quality use of medicines concerns associated with the apparent use of multiple products. This Review was approved by the Minister for Health on 28 September 2015.
The Review is being carried out under the Australian Government's post-market monitoring programme, which aims to ensure the continued safe, cost-effective and quality use of medicines listed on the PBS.
Medicines to be included in the COPD Review are:
- Medicines listed on the PBS for the treatment of COPD only:
- Aclidinium
- Glycopyrronium
- Indacaterol
- Indacaterol + Glycopyrronium
- Tiotropium
- Umeclidinium
- Umeclidinium + Vilanterol
- Medicines listed on the PBS for the treatment of COPD and asthma:
- Beclomethasone
- Budesonide
- Budesonide + Eformoterol
- Ciclesonide
- Eformoterol
- Fluticasone
- Fluticasone + Eformoterol
- Fluticasone + Salmeterol
- Fluticasone + Vilanterol
- Ipratropium
- Prednisone
- Salmeterol
- Salbutamol
- Terbutaline
- Theophylline.
Consultation on Draft Terms of Reference (closed)
Public consultation on the draft Review Terms of Reference was open between 16 October and 13 November 2015. To view submissions please go to the Public Consultation page.
Final Terms of Reference
The PBAC considered the draft Review Terms of Reference and comments from stakeholders at the December 2015 PBAC meeting. Following the December 2015 PBAC meeting the Minister for Health approved the final Terms of Reference for the Review:
- Compare the prescribing restrictions for PBS-listed COPD medicines for consistency with the current clinical guidelines.
- Review the clinical outcomes that are most important or clinically relevant to people with COPD and the extent to which these outcomes are included in the evidence previously provided to PBAC on the cost-effectiveness of these medicines.
- Review the evidence on the efficacy and safety of monotherapy and combinations of LABA/LAMA, ICS/LABA and LAMA + ICS/LABA (separate items or fixed dose combinations) for treatment of COPD that PBAC has not previously considered.
- Review the published literature on the safety of prolonged ICS use in monotherapy and in combination with LABA and/or LAMA for COPD that PBAC has not previously considered.
- Analyse the current utilisation of PBS listed COPD medicines to identify the extent of co-prescribing and use that is inconsistent with clinical guidelines and/or PBS restrictions.
- Evaluate if the current utilisation of multiple therapies and the latest evidence relating to safety and efficacy justifies a review of cost-effectiveness for some or all medicines indicated for COPD.
Public Submissions addressing the final Terms of Reference (closed)
Public consultation addressing the final Review Terms of Reference was open between 4 March and 22 April 2016. To view submissions please go to the Public Consultation page.
Stakeholder Forum
A Stakeholder Forum was held in Sydney on 21 March 2017. Pharmaceutical sponsors of COPD medicines listed on the PBS, representatives of peak bodies, consumer organisations, and individuals who provided a submission to the Review were invited to participate. The Stakeholder Forum Summary is provided below:
- COPD Review Stakeholder Forum Summary – (Word 56KB)
- COPD Review Stakeholder Forum Summary – (PDF 178KB)
Public Consultation on Draft Report
The draft COPD Review Report is available below for public comment until 13 June 2017. Please provide any comments by email to the COPD Review Secretariat. Please note that comments are limited to six pages. Some commercial-in-confidence data has been redacted from the draft Report.
The draft Report is provided in seven parts, in DOCX or PDF format, in the table below:
The documents on this page may not be accessible. If you need assistance please email the COPD Review Secretariat.
Part Number
Word version
PDF version
Executive Summary
Background and ToR 1
ToR 2
ToR 3
ToR 4
ToR 5
ToR 6
The appendices for the draft Report are available on request to the COPD Review Secretariat.
Review Process
This Review will follow the Post-market Review Framework available on the Reviews website. This process includes public consultation on the draft Terms of Reference, an opportunity to provide submissions to the Review, and an opportunity to comment on the draft Review Report.
Further Information
Further information on post-market reviews is available on the Reviews website.
Subscribe to news updates for the latest information regarding reviews, including public consultation, and publication of review reports.


text:
- 1 of 5 Photos | View More Photos
In a routine reminiscent of Edward Scissorhands, one can finish a scarf in 30 minutes instead of a week thanks to the latest crafting craze.
Arm knitting is making its mark among young crafters like Madison Gasparik, who shared her skills with a group of workshop attendees at Rodman Public Library's Marketplace branch last week.
Gasparik started arm knitting a few days before Christmas break, when she encountered a girl at school who wore a lovely scarf that she made herself.
She came home and told her mom, Lori Gasparik, about the fashion statement, deciding to look it up on YouTube and make one herself.
Not only did Gasparik make her own scarf, but at least 20 for friends and family as Christmas gifts.
One of the scarf recipients was Madison's cousin, Ali Edwards, who works in the children's department at the branch library, who suggested that she teach an arm knitting class for "tweens."
So on Wednesday, Gasparik arrived "armed" with her yarn and put hand over fist.
Using two heavy quality balls of yarn, one holds all the strands together and begins by putting a slip knot on their wrist like a bracelet. Then one casts stitches onto their arm from there.
A variety of scarves and blankets emerge from the various rows of loops that are based on the diameter of the crafter's arm.
Gasparik acknowledged, "The class started out a little rocky, because the beginning part of the scarf is the hardest to learn. However, after they got the hang of it, they could all do it."
There are plans for additional classes by the teen for both adults and kids.
@SUjhelyi_AR on Twitter
Madison, I didn't finish my comment, so let's continue. Anyhow , your mom and Mayor Andriani looked happy and maybe we will see an article with our Mayor making a scarf! In the pictures showing your teaching this art, you were into it and I hope you can teach me. I will warn you, I am all thumbs, if you know what that means but I will try hard to learn. Like your mom, you will be a good and patient and dedicated and FUN teacher. Congratulations on sharing your talent with so many at Rodman Public Library! We are so fortunate and blessed to have this library which offers so many additional features to the community. I have just started attending the One Book Community sessions and the book, The Essay, was a great time to begin. You and your mom would love reading it. It touches your heart. I read it twice. Mrs. Jones, who probably taught your mom at Sebring High School, gave an excellent review of it. At the library last month. Didn't mean to get off the subject, just thought it would be a book for both of you to read and discuss. Again, keep up the good work. You are your Mother's daughter which means you are a very special girl.
Mary Ellen Garrett
Madison, I was so excited to read the article and see you teaching arm knitting. As always you l and enjoying your project. The attendees at the class were fortunate to have you demonstrate what you have learned. Being able to make the scarves for gifts was so special for you who made them and those who received them. I am proud of you. Seeing your mom, Lori, with Mayor Andriani,

subset: commoncrawl


text:
contagious disease n.
See communicable disease.
In researching The Illustrious Dead, I was astonished to learn that Napoleon had a rather unique view of contagious disease.
It is more likely to contract any contagious disease, and it has not the proper chance to grow into a robust, healthy adult.
He asked her if she had been exposed to any contagious disease.
But alas, she fell sick with a contagious disease; and the doctors had to separate her from him.
Noli-me-tangere, the Scotch fiddle, or other contagious disease.
It was a law of the city that they must be buried within one hour after death from a contagious disease.
I will not treat it as if it were a leper, as if it had a contagious disease.
Measles is the most widely prevalent, eruptive, contagious disease.
He assured Aunt Caroline that there was no contagious disease.
A statement was made in the House of Commons that the contagious disease acts had been suspended in Bombay.
An infectious disease that is spread through contact with infected individuals; also called a communicable disease. Contact with the bodily secretions of such individuals, or with objects that they have contaminated, can also spread this kind of disease.


text:
And so Hollande—in reality every bit the political animal Sarkozy is—has plodded along under the radar.
For most of the trip our mounts went untaxed as they plodded down into the valley and around one of the Mittens.
At precisely 11:00, NRA president David Keene plodded slowly to the podium, bespectacled, white haired, and avuncular.
For the last few years, Bernanke and the Fed have plodded along.
He told the story of the eviction and his companion listened as they plodded up the hill.
Got some business in hand, and plodded on till it was finished.
When I had gone away to see the world, he had plodded on patiently in the narrow valley to keep a home for me.
She watched while Melvina plodded across the grass and delivered her message.
But they plodded through it, faces set, sweating and agonized.
So he plodded on, once more returning to careful regard of Nagger.
1560s, of uncertain origin, perhaps imitative of the sound of walking heavily or slowly. Related: Plodded; plodding.


text:
The star of 'The Hills' is trying to get another doctor who wants to give her size H breasts now that Dr. Frank Ryan rejects the idea.
Reality TV star Heidi Montag is looking for a new plastic surgeon - the doctor who carried out 10 procedures on "The Hills" regular in a day refused to nip and tuck her any more. Montag is so thrilled with her buxom new look after having work done on her nose, chin, ears, eyebrows, cheeks and breasts - and she's already thinking about her next trip to the cosmetic surgeon.
She has told pals she wants size H breasts, "for Heidi", but she'll have to find a new surgeon to upgrade her Fs - her doctor, Frank Ryan, has refused to conduct any more operations on the 23 year old. He says, "With me, she won't go bigger. Another doctor may do it, but I won't."
Montag had admitted previously that she was addicted to cosmetic surgery. "I just wanted to feel more confident and look in the mirror and be like, 'Whoa! That's me!' I was an ugly duckling before," she said. "For the past three years, I've thought about what to have done. I'm beyond obsessed."


text:
Neil Diamond To Write New Song About Boston Marathon Bombing
Neil Diamond says he's written a new song inspired in part by last week's Boston Marathon tragedy.
The legendary singer-songwriter tells "Rolling Stone" he was "obviously affected" by the bombing, so he's "writing about it" as a form of self-expression. But Neil adds that his song encompasses more than the Marathon blast, and also includes his reflections on such tragedies as the Aurora, Colorado theater shooting and the Newtown, Connecticut school shooting. Diamond says it's "like an infestation," and that he's "writing about the general situation" and "what we're going through with all of these tragedies." Diamond adds that he's hoping to have the song ready for release soon. He says he's now recording the track, and "with a little bit of help from the man upstairs" he'll "have it finished by the weekend." But Diamond doesn't say when or how he'll put out the untitled song.


text:
A Kathakali performer exploiting his gestures
Kathakali is a highly stylized classical Indian dance-drama noted for the attractive make-up of characters, elaborate costumes, detailed gestures and well-defined body movements presented in tune with the anchor playback music and complementary percussion. It originated in India's present day state of Kerala during the 17th century and has developed over the years with improved looks, refined gestures and added themes besides more ornate singing and precise drumming.
Kerala, India


text:
|Project by Chris Davis
|posted 11-20-2009 04:53 PM
|3360 views
|0 times favorited
|1 comment
This is a version of my locker murphy bed was built in November 2009. This is a murphy bed built to resemble a football locker. I normally build this in a baseball style. The inside headboard is designed like a scoreboard. This is taken from my regular baseball bed. The outside has graphics to look like vents, a name plate that doubles as the support leg and lock. The team graphic was one that was bought and applied.
This style is alway a fun one to build.
Here are the building videos:
Football Cut/Rip
Football Headboard
Football Inner Frame
Football Face
Football Center
For more building pictures see my Current Projects link at wwbeds.com or poggyskids.com. See what we are doing live:
Chat with us directly in the shop
-- Watch live video from our shop. http://www.wwbeds.com/#!current-projects/c3c1
1 comment so far
#1 posted 11-20-2009 05:41 PM
Hey Chris, your beds are not just well done. They are very clever. I think Orange County Choppers are in there last season. Call TLC; maybe you can start Little Rock Beds. LOL
-- If all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail!
Have your say...
You must be signed in to post the comments.


text:
A Connecticut Middle School Bans The Popular Saying "Hump Day" From Campus [VIDEO]
Subscribe to Hot 107.9 on
We have all seen the commercial where the camel is walking around an office and it's asking workers what day it is and he replies, in a very unique voice, "Its Hump Day!!!" Now, one school says it's students are taking that popular catch phrase to the halls and they are tired of hearing it.
Vernon Center Middle School has banned it's student's from mocking the ever so popular Geico commercial on it's campus because teachers say that the kids are mocking the television commercial so much, that its become a distraction. Yes, kids are walking the halls at this school saying, "Its Hump Day" so often that teachers think its time to put a stop to this latest "distraction."
I agree with one parent in this news segment when he said that there are probably bigger issues on campus they could be addressing or worrying about other than this. Sure, it may be annoying for now, but like any other catch phrase out there it will come and go. Not too sure about this decision here. What do you think about the school addressing this?


text:
EDITORIALS>>PSC backs ratepayers
This commission, under the new chairman, Paul Suskie, who was appointed in January by Gov. Beebe, seems to abide by the doctrine that utility regulators are to be first tribunes of the people the customers and not servants of the utilities and their investors.
Part of the companys big rate request originally $150 million a year, scaled back to $106.5 million after the PSC staff and the attorney general recommended flat rates or a reduction was to compensate the company for hefty stock options and bonuses for top executives at the utility and its parent holding company, as well as a large assortment of lobbying expenses and executive perquisites.
When the media reported the details of these above-the-line expenses in the application early last year, it became impossible for the commission almost any public commission to recognize the costs as a legitimate consumer burden. A hot air balloon race? Body lotion? Sports tickets? Rock and symphony concert tickets? Country club dues? Expensive whisky? Personal financial advice? Overdue phone bills? They had to be kidding! But they werent.
The commission disallowed most of the recovery for stock options and incentive pay, but it did allow a few on the theory that some incentives for high performance by executives benefited the ratepayers in some way. We would have said none. Incentive pay is for raising shareholder value, not for improving service, and investors should pay it. The PSC reduced the calculation for the companys return on equity the compensation for shareholders from the 11.25 percent requested by Entergy to 9.9 percent. Most of us would consider that a healthy return.
The reduced rate will take effect this month. But if youre an Entergy customer, you should not go out and spend your savings on crystal or new frocks. When you get your bills, they will be higher, not lower. The news accounts did not make that clear.
Utility rates are complicated and consist of several tiers. While customers base monthly rate will go down slightly to reflect a reduction in the companys systemwide income of $5.7 million, customers starting this month will have to subsidize Entergy customers in Louisiana, Texas and Mississippi because the utilities down there have higher production costs than the generating plants nuclear and coal-fired that were built in Arkansas in the last 35 years.
They burn a lot of natural gas to generate electricity south of us, and gas prices have gone through the roof. So Louisiana asked the federal government to make Arkansas customers help them pay their bills. President Bushs regulators agreed in 2005. That subsidy roughly $250 million a year starts this month. It will show up on your bills every month as an extra charge.
All that the commission could do in its rate order Friday was determine how the extra charge would be computed and divided among residential, industrial, commercial and wholesale customers. Arkansas has been providing a similar subsidy since the Grand Gulf case in the mid-1980s, where the regulators under President Ronald Reagan determined that Arkansas should help its neighbors bear the cost of building hugely expensive nuclear plants.
Two years ago, Louisiana argued and the feds agreed that the total production costs should be roughly equalized among Entergy customers in the four states.
Arkansas would have to pay if its production costs were more than 11 percent below the others. It now is because of the high gas costs in Louisiana and the sharply lower annual depreciation cost of Arkansas aging nuclear and coal plants.
The PSC somewhat lamely explained Friday that it was doing its best for Arkansas by appealing the Bush administration order to the federal appellate court in Washington. It promised that if it lost it would appeal to the U. S. Supreme Court. Should it ever win, you will get a refund of your monthly subsidies to people and industries on the Gulf coast. Dont start spending that either.


text:
Home > Industry Analysis > Research & Analysis > FDIC Banking Review
FDIC Banking Review
A Moving-Average Formula for Calculating Deposit Insurance Assessments
by Panos Konstas*
Current deposit insurance assessment policy is largely a product of three laws passed by Congress between 1989 and 1996: the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989 (FIRREA), the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991 (FDICIA), and the Deposit Insurance Funds Act of 1996 (DIFA).1 FIRREA chiefly addressed the financial crisis facing the thrift industry, but it also made fundamental changes in the deposit insurance assessment system. It renamed the FDICs deposit insurance fund the Bank Insurance Fund (BIF), and it created the Savings Association Insurance Fund (SAIF). It also established a statutory minimum reserve ratiocalled the designated reserve ratio (DRR)of 1.25 percent for both the BIF and the SAIF. Two years after passage of FIRREA, FDICIA further changed the assessment system: it required the FDIC to (1) establish a system of risk-based deposit insurance premiums, (2) impose a minimum level of assessments on insured institutions when the reserve ratio is less than the DRR, and (3) set semiannual assessments to maintain the reserve ratio of each fund at 1.25 percent. Five years later still, DIFA enacted further changes, eliminating significant differences in the pricing of deposit insurance for BIF and SAIF members and limiting the FDICs ability to charge premiums when the reserve ratio is at or above the DRR.
Thus, since 1996 the BIF and the SAIF have been on a pay-as-you-go basis in relation to the ratio of each insurance funds balanceor net worthto its estimated insured deposits. Should insurance costs push the reserve ratio of either fund below 1.25 percent, the FDIC must either set premiums at a level that will bring the fund back to 1.25 percent within one year or set premiums at a minimum of 23 basis points and establish a plan to bring the fund back up to a 1.25 percent level within 15 years.2 In either the 1-year case or the 15-year case, insurance losses greater than the interest income earned by the BIF or the SAIF will result in higher premiums for the banking industryan event that could be a formidable problem for banks during periods of financial stress.
This article examines the level and volatility of the assessment rates that would have been imposed if the current 1.25 DRR policy had been in effect when the FDIC first began operations in 1934. Specifically, to get an idea of how high the required premiums might have been and how dramatically they might have changed from year to year, we calculated BIF assessment rates for the 19401995 period using current law.3 The results indicate that if the current law had been in effect from 1940 to 1995, assessment rates would have swung widely during volatile times, with high assessments in some years and low or zero premiums in others, and that in general the policy would have imposed high premiums when bank profits were weak and low premiums when profits were strong.
We also examined two premium-setting schemes that contrast with the current system. The first involves deriving the applicable assessment rates to maintain the reserve ratio at 1.25 percent on the basis of a moving average of previous years actual BIF outlays for failures and operating costs. This approach would smooth the extremes in the high assessment rates required under the current policy, thus helping the banking industry through cyclical fluctuations. However, assessment rates would still change almost yearly, and in some years assessment rebates would be needed to maintain the reserve ratio at 1.25 percent. The second scheme uses the same moving-average method, but in addition it imposes a minimum positive assessment premium in the calculation formula. The advantages of this scheme are that assessment rebates would be eliminated by definition and the yearly assessment rate would remain relatively stable over long stretches of time. But the possibility of very high premiums in some years would remain.
The Development of the Current Assessment System
To give a fuller understanding of the current assessment system, this section discusses the history of the reserve ratio, the premium structure, and the role played by insurance losses.
The Reserve Ratio
Throughout the FDICs history the reserve ratio has been noticeably stable over long periods, although the long-term trend has generally been downward. The ratio was at its highest during the first ten years of the FDICs existence, peaking at 1.96 percent in 1941. From the mid-1940s to the late 1960s the ratio fluctuated between 1.3 and 1.5 percent, and during the 1970s and early 1980s it hovered around 1.2 percent. Then came the banking crisis of the 1980s and early 1990s. In 1989, when the 1.25 percent DRR requirement was introduced by FIRREA, the ratio of the BIF to estimated insured deposits stood at 0.70 percent (see table 1 and figure 1).
The main events affecting the ratio have been statutory changes in the insurance limit and insurance losses from bank failures. In 1974, when Congress raised the insurance coverage from $20,000 to $40,000, the ratio declined, and it declined again in 1980 when the $40,000 limit was raised to the current $100,000. It declined further, and the fund reserves briefly fell below zero, during the aforementioned banking crisis, during which the fund had to absorb actual and projected losses.
The Premium Structure
At the same time that the reserve ratio has been trending downward, the structure of premium assessments has been evolving. Until 1989, all insured banks paid assessments at a statutory annual flat rate of 1/12 of 1 percent (0.0833 percent, or 8.33 basis points) of assessable deposits.4 During periods when bank failures were rare, the fund kept growing. In 1950, the Federal Deposit Insurance Act provided for a rebate to banks of a portion of their assessments in the form of an assessment credit applied toward the amount owed in the following year. Specifically, the rebatesor assessment creditstotaled 60 percent of net assessment income (the amount of the FDICs annual assessment income in excess of its annual administrative expenses and costs of insurance losses).5 For the period 19501980, in every year but one these rebates reduced the effective assessment rate to less than half of the statutory rate (see table 1).
As noted above, FIRREA made several important changes in the system of assessments. It increased the statutory assessment rate to 0.12 percent in 1990 and to a minimum of 0.15 percent in 1991, and it gave the FDIC additional flexibility to adjust assessment rates and pursue reserve targets. Specifically, the FDIC would be able to increase the assessment rate up to a maximum of 0.325 percent to prevent a decrease in the ratio of the BIF to estimated insured deposits. And the FDIC would be able to set the DRR as high as 1.50 percent if that high a ratio was deemed necessary to meet a risk of substantial future losses to the BIF.6 Subsequently, high actual and projected losses to the BIF caused the assessment rate for banks to increase sharply, reaching 0.23 percent (23 basis points) in 1993.
In January 1993, as required by FDICIA, the FDIC implemented a system of risk-based deposit insurance premiums. Under the system, deposit insurance assessments are based on the financial soundness of the institution and the level of risk that it poses to the deposit insurance funds.7 Specifically, risk-based premiums are determined on the basis of capital and supervisory ratings: the capital rating provides an objective, numerical standard, and the supervisory rating incorporates examination results and other risk-related information.8 FDICIA required the risk-based system to charge an average annual assessment rate of 23 basis points until the BIF was recapitalized.9 The original assessment schedule implemented in 1993 (shown in table 2) had a rate spread of 8 basis points: the best-rated institutions were charged 23 basis points and the riskiest institutions were charged 31 basis points. The effective or average annual assessment rate in 1993 was 0.244 percent, or 24.4 basis points.
After the BIF reserve ratio reached the DRR in mid-1995, the FDIC began to lower BIF assessment rates in order to maintain the reserve ratio at 1.25 percent. Accordingly, the average assessment rate for the second half of 1995 declined from 23.2 points (a matrix spread of 23 to 31 basis points) to 4.4 basis points (a matrix spread of 4 to 31 basis points). In 1996, the assessment rate schedule was again lowered, so that the best-rated institutions were charged nothing, and the riskiest institutions were charged 27 basis points. Because the BIF reserve ratio remains above 1.25 percent, the FDIC continues to use this rate schedule today (see table 2).
Insurance Losses
Obviously, the size of the assessments that must be imposed on banks is determined largely by insurance losses, for when losses occur they are often a major expense item on the BIFs income statement. During the banking crisis of the 1980s and early 1990s, insurance losses increased dramatically. Losses through 1983 had amounted to less than $1 billion per year, but in 1984 they more than doubled, exceeding assessment income. As a result, assessment credits were no longer feasible.10 Losses rose to $7.4 billion in 1988, and for the first time in its history the FDIC experienced a net operating loss. In 1991, estimated losses from banks that regulators had identified as either equity insolvent or likely to become equity insolvent in the foreseeable future rose to $16.3 billiona record high.11
The losses during this period occurred against a backdrop of premium increases for insured institutions and far-reaching deposit insurance reform legislation. These developments, coupled with a recorded BIF deficit of $7.0 billion in 1991, raised new concerns not only about the viability of the deposit insurance system but also about the operating policies of both the FDIC and insured institutions.
The Implications of Assessing under the Designated Reserve Ratio of 1.25 Percent
The current policy reflects two distinct types of problems. The first is reflected in the requirement that the ratio of the BIF to estimated insured deposits must be at least 1.25 percent. In fact there is no widely accepted method of determining the optimum size of the BIF, either in terms of an absolute amount or in relation to some measure of exposure. The BIF has to be sufficient to cover losses and meet cash needs. Beyond that, its proper size depends on the contingencies the BIF is expected to handle and on the publics perception of the FDICs ability to meet its obligations under alternative economic scenarios. If the public is satisfied with the prospects for the economy and the banking industry, a 1.25 percent BIF ratio may seem entirely adequate. The same ratio, however, may look less than adequate when the economy and banks prospects worsen.
The second type of problem is reflected in the requirement that premium assessments on banks be set at whatever amounts are necessary to keep the BIF ratio at some given level. In fact (and not surprisingly), for the banking industry high failure rates and low profits tend to occur concurrently. Thus, when higher assessment premiums are required under the current policy, they are likely to be charged when many banks are least able to afford them. The problem is, of course, compounded if the assessment revenue that must be raised in a given year must also be allocated among banks according to each banks risk status. High-risk banks then will be subjected to higher costs when they can least afford it in terms of both their low profitability and their disadvantage compared with competitors designated as better risks. Under these conditions, a premium structure with the flexibility to deal with the varying loss situations over time becomes a necessity.
To see the effects of the current rules, we have applied the current statutory requirement to maintain the BIF reserve ratio at the 1.25 percent DRR to annual data for the period 19401995. In any given year, the assessment revenue necessary to maintain the BIF at the DRR is a function of three independent variables: BIF costs (actual and anticipated failure losses plus operating expenses), growth in insured deposits, and interest earnings on the BIF portfolio. The reserve ratio is defined as the BIFs net worth as of a given date divided by the amount of estimated insured deposits at that date. The equation for the revenue for year t is
This equation shows that, for a given year, the FDIC must raise enough assessment revenue so that the combined amount of assessment revenue and investment income will prove sufficient to cover BIF costs plus the designated portion (1.25 percent) of the change in insured deposits during the year. This ensures that the BIF reserve ratio at the end of the year will remain at the 1.25 percent DRR. For the simulation, it has been assumed that all of the BIFs net worth is invested in U.S. securities, where it earns interest at the Treasury 10-year bond rate.12
The results of simulation over the 19401995 period are shown in table 3. As indicated on the left side of the table, the 1.25 percent ratio can be maintained only if the FDIC is able to rebate premiums in no fewer than eight years during the period. But under current law no rebates are allowed; thus the least amount of assessment that the FDIC may put into effect in any one year is zero. 13
The right side of table 3 shows the results of a simulation for 19401995 that included no rebates and a zero minimum assessment regime. These conditions comply with the no rebate requirement, but they also necessitate some major deviations from the 1.25 DRR target. At the end of 1994 and 1995, for example, BIF ratios would have reached over 2 percent. Note that in 1988, 1990, and 1991, this simulation results in required assessment rates that are well above those actually imposed at the time (see tables 1 and 3).
As shown in the right side of table 3, if the current 1.25 DRR policy had been implemented in 1940, the assessment rate necessary to cover losses, operating expenses, and the fraction of the change in insured deposits for that year would have amounted to 5.6 basis points. From then until the late 1980s the necessary assessment rates would have remained generally at manageable levels. After that, however, assessment rates would have skyrocketed: 32.3 basis points for 1988, 17.7 points for 1989, and 49.0 and 62.8 points for 1990 and 1991 (again, well over two-and-a-half times the actual assessment rate applied in either year). The practical effects of levying such assessments on the industry could have been severe. A 49 basis point assessment in 1990 and a 62.8 point levy in 1991, for example, would have meant accrued costs for banks equal to about 75 percent of 1990 profits and 85 percent of 1991 profits.
The current policy of maintaining the 1.25 DRR poses another problem for the banking industry besides occasional very high assessments. The policy requires the rate of assessment to change frequently and swing widely. For example, under the zero minimum assessment (or no rebate) regime, the assessment rate declines from 62.8 basis points to zero basis points between 1991 and 1992. Such volatility is a problem because changes in the assessment rate affect bank income and net interest margins, much as changes in the cost for borrowed funds do.14
The two main reasons for the wide swings in the assessment rate required under the DRR are that BIF costs are highly correlated with the state of the economy (as mentioned above) and that estimating future bank failures and future BIF losses from those failures cannot be done with great precision. Under generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), which the FDIC is required to follow, losses on bank failures projected to occur within the next year, must be recognized when these losses are estimable and probable. Such losses can not always be calculated accurately. In the early 1990s, when estimated failures dramatically increased, large loss reserves were charged to the fund, but when the economy rapidly improved and the projected failures did not arrive, the loss reserves had to be reversed. As a result, BIF reserves and the reserve ratio swung dramatically in the 19911994 period.
The Moving-Average Alternative
An alternative to the current assessment system is one in which the annual assessment is based on a moving average of past years BIF costs, including the necessary adjustment for the change in insured deposits. Unlike the current system, which raises assessment income as necessary to maintain the BIF ratio at 1.25 percent, the moving-average (MA) alternative would raise income according to a fixed formula that would allow the BIF ratio to achieve the 1.25 percent level over a span of time. Because of averaging, such a system would tend to reduce the extreme variability in annual premiums. When BIF costs were rising, banks in a given year would be assessed at a lower rate than the rate necessary to cover actual or anticipated BIF costs, and the observed BIF ratio for the year would tend to decline. This would occur when actual costs were rising, as happened during the 1980s. The reverse would be true when costs were falling: in years when actual costs were falling, as happened in 1979 and 1980, the assessment raised under the MA method would tend to exceed the BIF costs incurred.
We can simulate the MA method by using the BIF statistics contained in table 1. We derived four- and six-year moving-average calculations for assessment revenues and other data starting with 1940. For the four-year average, we determined the assessment for a given year by summing up the BIF costs (insurance losses plus operating expenses) and the insured-deposits growth factor of the previous four years, dividing the total by four, and subtracting from the quotient the amount of investment income earned by the BIF during the year. For example, to calculate the premium for 1940 we summed up the actual BIF costs and insured-deposit reserve factors (annual dollar change in insured deposits times 0.0125) for 1939, 1938, 1937, and 1936; divided the resultant total by four; and subtracted from this number the income earned on the investment of the BIF balance in 1940 (year-end 1939 BIF net worth times the interest rate for 1940).
This approach avoids most of the problems mentioned above associated with the present 1.25 DRR method. As shown in table 4 and figure 2, both the four- and the six-year MA methods produce assessment-rate and assessment-income requirements that are less extreme and vary less from year to year than the requirements produced by the 1.25 DRR method. For 1991, for example, the two MA methods produce assessment rates of 30.3 and 29.3 basis points respectively, compared with 62.8 points for the DRR method. In terms of volatility, the standard deviation of the assessment rate for the period 1940 1995 is reduced from 11.1 basis points for the 1.25 DRR method to 8.8 and 7.0 basis points, respectively, for the four- and six-year MA methods (see tables 3 and 4). In addition, the need for assessment rebates is nearly eliminated without a need to impose a zero-assessment constraint. Rebates are only required in 1994 and 1995 under the four-year MA method, and in 1995 under the six-year MA method.
In general, under the MA approach the BIF reserve ratio would tend to converge on a year-by-year basis around the BIF reserve ratio for the year initially chosen. For example, the BIF ratio in 1940 when our experiment was started was 1.25 percent. Over the years, both the four- and the six-year MA methods resulted in ratios that were close to 1.25 percent. The four-year MA, however, exhibited much closer convergence to the initial 1.25-percent value than the six-year MA. The mean BIF ratios for 1940-1995 were 1.19 percent for the four-year MA and 1.07 for the six-year MA. The variation around the mean for the four-year MA method was also smaller.
As emphasized above, an approach to assessments based on a MA would tend to have a counter-cyclical effect on bank income. From this perspective, if deposit insurance assessment rates were set using a MA method, the current risk-based assessment system would be improved, and the system would be easier for the FDIC to administer. Simply put, as compared with the current 1.25 DRR method, an assessment policy based on a moving average would make the assessment costs to BIF members more predictable from year to year and less of a burden during hard economic times. In the long run, of course, costs should end up the same under both approaches.
The Constrained Moving Average
Although the MA approach improves upon the current 1.25 DRR method in several respects, one major problem remains. Like the current 1.25 DRR method, the MA method results in highly variable assessment rates over time, which can create funding uncertainty for banks. This problem can be lessened if the MA approach is modified with an above-zero (positive) minimum constraint on assessment rates. Under this variation, the FDIC would impose the MA assessment rate only when that rate was greater than the predetermined minimum rate. If it was not, then the FDIC would charge the predetermined minimum rate.
We have incorporated a minimum constraint of 3 basis points into the four- and six-year MA formulations. This 3-basis point constraint corresponds closely to the actual minimum effective rate observed in any year during the 19341995 period (see table 1). The results, shown in table 5, suggest that the new approach deals effectively with the problem of changing ratesthe assessment rate remains constant over long stretches of time.
In about half the years the assessment rate is the 3-basis-point minimum. In addition, the technique of the constrained MA would further reduce the variability in the assessment rate. The assessment rate standard deviations in both the four-year and six-year constrained MA formulations are lower than those of the current 1.25 DRR (no rebate) policy (see tables 3 and 5). However, the constrained MA approaches would neither alleviate problematic high assessment rates, nor mitigate the resultant cyclical problem for the industry. In these regards, the advantages seem to lie decidedly with the two unconstrained MA approaches.
The current system for setting deposit insurance rates may generate high premiums just when bank earnings are low, and thus raises questions about what level of assessments banks can absorb during a banking downturn. This level has not been established, nor has the question been put to the test since the current system was implemented. In the last banking crisisthat of the 1980s and early 1990sthe law did not require the FDIC to adhere to a pay-as-you-go policy in response to the large insurance losses. Instead Congress approved modest increases in premium rates in 1989 and 1991, the years of greatest stress to the insurance fund. Further changes introduced by FDICIA and DIFA established the current assessment policy, which requires that the BIF and the SAIF reserve ratios be maintained at the DRR and limits the ability of the FDIC to charge assessments if the reserve ratios are at or above the DRR. As a result, current assessment policy requires that deposit insurance assessments be set sufficiently high to cover costs during periods of high bank failures.
We cannot see the future, but we can look at the past. This paper has examined the level and volatility of assessment rates that would have occurred if the current 1.25 DRR policy had been put into effect when the deposit insurance system first began operations in 1934. The analysis, using data on FDIC insurance losses, deposit growth, and interest rates from 1940 through 1995, indicates that a steady 1.25 percent reserve ratio for the BIF would have meant very heavy assessment levies in some years (years when the implied annual levy would have erased almost all bank profits), followed by zero levies as the industrys condition improved. If significant banking industry losses should reappear, such high volatility in assessment requirements is not likely to be acceptable.
This article has advanced an alternative moving-average approach to the current assessment policy. This approach would not maintain the BIF at a predetermined ratio in every year, but would ensure that the BIF ratio would converge around the predetermined ratio over the long run. It also avoids the two major weaknesseshigh volatility and potentially prohibitive assessment burdensinherent in the current 1.25 DRR assessment policy. Because this method relies on predetermined formulas instead of behavioral economic assumptions and estimates of future failures, premium setting would lie outside the realm of political influence or industry pressures. And because this method does not burden banks with oppressive premiums when they can least afford them (as the current policy does), the moving-average approach would have a beneficial counter-cyclical effect on the banking industry.
*The author is a senior economist in the FDICs Division of Insurance and Research. He thanks Christine Blair, Kymberly Copa, Lee Davison, Joe DiNuzzo, Steven Guggenmos, Barry Kolatch, Jack Reidhill, and Munsell St. Clair for their comments and James Lamont for help with the data.
1Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989, Public Law 101-103; Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991, Public Law 102-242, and Deposit Insurance Funds Act of 1996, Public Law 104-208.
2See footnote 9.
3Although the FDIC manages the BIF and the SAIF, the analysis here focuses only on the BIF.
4Deposit insurance premiums are assessed against total domestic deposits (demand deposits and time and savings deposits), adjusted for items such as float.
5See Christopher (1978).
6See Konstas (1992) for details.
7FDICIA requires the FDIC to set risk-based deposit insurance rates independently for the BIF and the SAIF.
8The capital measures are consistent with the prompt corrective action requirements of FIRREA.
9Under FDICIA, when the reserve ratio of the BIF falls below 1.25 percent, as it did before May 1995, the FDIC is given two alternatives: it can impose semiannual assessment rates to generate sufficient revenue to raise the BIF ratio to the designated target within a year after such rates have been set, or it can promulgate through regulation a schedule of assessment rates (for a period of up to 15 years) that would return the fund to the designated 1.25 percent reserve goal. When the second option is selected, the FDIC is required to set assessment rates for members in accordance with a time schedule that specifies, at semiannual intervals, target reserve ratios for the BIF, culminating in attainment of the designated ratio within 15 years. Under this second option, the statute explicitly directs the FDIC to set rates that will at a minimum generate revenue equivalent to the amount generated by the assessment rate in effect on July 15, 1991 (when an assessment rate of 23 basis points applied), as long as the BIF ratio remains below 1.25 percent. Under the second option, therefore, if the reserve ratio falls below 1.25 percent, the minimum premium that can be charged to the industry for restoring the reserve ratio to the DRR is 23 basis points.
101983 was the last year that the FDIC provided assessment credits. In 1991, FDICIA removed the FDICs authority to provide rebates of any kind.
11However, the large number of failures forecast in 1991 did not occur, so for 1992, 1993, and 1994, loss reserves of $1.2 billion, $7.3 billion, and $2.7 billion were added back into the BIF (see Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Annual Report for cited years).
12In practice, the BIF is invested in both long- and short-term Treasuries, according to FDIC investment policies. This investment structure allows the fund to maintain liquidity for resolving failed banks but still generates some income to keep the fund balance at or above the DRR.
13The FDICs current proposals for deposit insurance reform include giving the FDIC Board authority to implement surcharges, rebates and credits as needed to maintain the reserve ratio around the 1.25 percent level. For more information, see http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/speeches/archives/2005/chairman/spmar1705.html.
14From the standpoint of a bank, a 25 basis point increase in the assessment rate is the same as a one-quarter of 1 percent increase in the interest rate for deposit funds. This type of change, whether in the assessment rate or in the interest rate, makes it more costly for a bank to carry and continue refinancing long-term assets, such as home mortgages.
Blair, Christine E. 1997. History of the FDICs Deposit Insurance Assessment System. Unpublished manuscript. FDIC.
Christopher, Benjamin B. 1978. The Calculation of Deposit Insurance Assessments: Some Issues of Procedure. FDIC Financial-Statistical Report 78-2 (unpublished).
Congressional Budget Office (CBO). 1991. Budgetary Treatment of Deposit Insurance: A Framework for Reform. CBO.
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Cited Years. Annual Report. FDIC.
. 1997. History of the EightiesLessons for the Future. Vol. 1. FDIC.
Konstas, Panos. 1992. The Bank Insurance Fund: Trends, Initiatives, and the Road Ahead. FDIC Banking Review 5, no. 2:1524.
Office of Management and Budget (OMB). 1991. Budgeting for Federal Deposit Insurance. OMB.
|Last Updated 11/17/2005
|Questions, Suggestions & Requests


text:
Platinum Tax Defenders are expert tax resolution company offering assistance to taxpayers in need of tax resolution services. 877- 668-1807
Los Angeles, California (PRWEB) December 28, 2012
For individuals who may have suffered a credit score hit of up to 300 points because of a federal tax lien, Platinum Tax Defenders may be able to help. Previously, even after back taxes were paid, a federal lien would still show on a taxpayer's credit history and damage the taxpayers credit score, according to Platinum Tax Defenders, an experienced tax resolution firm. Under the recently passed Fresh Start Program, the IRS now enables many taxpayers the ability to entirely remove the lien from their credit report, This brand new program not only allows taxpayers to eliminate the lien and substantially improve their credit score but it also creates simpler ways to repay tax debts owed to the Internal revenue service.
"For many taxpayers, the opportunity to remove a tax lien from a credit history may be the difference between being approved for a loan or not," according to Sherri Gastelum of tax resolution services Platinum Tax Defenders. This new program is fantastic news for taxpayers since consumer's credit reports can be quickly repaired. In past times, taxpayers could pay the full amount of tax owed and mark the lien as "released" on the credit report but still had to wait 7 years after the time the lien was satisfied for it to be taken off their credit report. In the new guidelines, liens can be removed once full repayment is made or in many cases once the tax payer enters into a direct debit installment agreement with the Internal revenue service. Taxpayers who are already in a monthly installment agreement can easily convert to a direct debit installment agreement and request removal of the lien.
Once the individual is on a direct debit arrangement, they must make 3 consecutive monthly installments before the IRS will consider lien removal. The taxpayer will need to have filed all required tax returns for the last three years and must not have defaulted on a previous IRS installment agreement. Additionally, to qualify for this program, the total balance owed to the IRS including tax, penalties and interest must be less than $25,000.
Having the IRS to remove the lien is just the starting point in a taxpayer bettering their credit. While the Federal government may withdraw the lien and mark it satisfied with the court where the lien was filed, it is the taxpayer's responsibility to notify the credit reporting company once the lien withdrawal has occurred. In most cases, neither the internal revenue service nor the court will notify the credit agencies when a lien has been withdrawn. Consequently, the time to get the lien withdrawn can take three months or more. Contact the IRS tax attorneyprofessionals at Platinum Tax Defenders for your personal consultation.
The IRS has also extended its existing installment agreement options to allow more taxpayers to find help with back taxes. The "Streamlined" Installment Agreement allows taxpayers to pay the tax owed in equal monthly installments over a set period of time. Traditionally, this type of installment agreement allowed taxpayers whose tax liability was lower than $25,000 to make monthly payments over 5 years. Under the new program the IRS increased the limit to $50,000 and now allows citizens to pay the balance owed over 6 years as long as the taxpayer agrees to make direct debit payments and the statute of limitation for collection exceeds 6 years. Other changes under the Fresh Start program includes the IRS lessening the impact of its lien practices by increasing the threshold for filing a lien against most taxpayers from $5,000 to $10,000.
Whether a taxpayer has satisfied their lien, is already in an installment agreement or has not attempted to establish a payment plan with the IRS, the best course of action is to contact their Platinum Tax Defenders to find out whether they can take advantage of this new program and improve their credit.
Platinum Tax Defenders is an experienced tax resolution firm that understands the importance of having the most talented and experienced staff on board and taking action immediately. They provide helpful and positive solutions for their clients and do their best to negotiate on the behalf of their clients. With Platinum Tax Defenders, taxpayers know that they will be provided with accurate answers, and the professional tax experts at Platinum Tax Defenders will not make promises that they cannot keep or give their clients unrealistic expectations. They work hard to negotiate affordable plans that their clients can keep up with and that will satisfy the IRS.
Platinum Tax Defenders are experts in tax negotiation, offering a wide range of tax resolution services for individual taxpayers and small business owners including assistance with Offer in Compromise. With over ten years of experience representing clients in negotiations and settlements with the IRS, they help regular citizens avoid significant fines and even foreclosures, by facilitating penalty abatements, lien subordinations, restructured payment plans, and the release of bank levies and garnished wages.
For more information about being audited, or to schedule a free consultation regarding any other concerns about tax debt resolution,
Call 877- 668-1807
Tusana Web Design & Internet Marketing


text:
Hal Leonard Reggae Bass Book/CD
Sku #940307000000000
Hal Leonard
General Bass Guitar Instruction Books
- Write a Review
45 day price guarantee, 45 day return policy, 100% secure shopping
The complete guide to reggae and Jamaican bass styles, covering early ska, rock steady, roots reggae, dub, modern ska, dance hall, and more. The book includes performance tips and lessons, authentic grooves and riddims, standard notation & tablature, and more. The CD features 47 full-demo tracks.


text:
Over a dozen songs from the seminal composer arranged for solo instrumentalists, including But Not for Me; Embraceable You; A Foggy Day (In London Town); I Got Plenty O' Nuttin'; I Got Rhythm; I
The Violin Play-Along series will help you play your favorite songs quickly and easily. Just follow the music, listen to the online audio to hear how the violin should sound, and then play along using the
Orchestrate Your Inbox
What are your interests? Fine-tune your email so you receive only what's important to you.
Thank you! Please check your inbox. We've sent an email with a link to update your preferences.
Pepper Music eClubs
Everything you need for the upcoming season and special recommendations from our editors! Each club is sent monthly (unless otherwise noted).
General Music
Music Library
Cued In - The Pepper Blog
A weekly digest of insightful articles, helpful resources, and interviews with leading composers and arrangers
Subscribe to Cued In
Thanks, you're almost done! Please check your inbox and click the link to complete your subscription.


text:
Chinatown, Revisited
Just Add Water: The Discussions
Discover the history of water in Los Angeles in a series of lectures at NHM. Learn about
the people and the struggles. Explore the L.A. River and see what the future holds for
the once neglected waterway. Discuss the possibilities of surviving a hotter Los Angeles
and how to create a harmony with our region's natural resources. Complements the
exhibition Just Add Water (closing August 3).
General Information
$10 Nonmember/$8 Members
Purchase the entire series at a discounted rate: $40 Nonmember/$36 Members.
Doors open at 6:30 PM. Please use the North Entrance.
7 PM: Discussion, followed by Q&A
8 PM: Visit the Just Add Water exhibit and the Nature Gardens SERIES MODERATORR:
Jon Christensen, editor of Boom: A Journal of California and senior researcher at the
Institute of the Environment and Sustainability at UCLA
Thursday, July 24: Chinatown, Revisited
Take another look at where our water comes from, how imported water transformed
L.A. and the current impact of the statewide drought on our lives.
For more information, a complete list of lecture panelists
and to purchase tickets, visit NHM.ORG or 213.763.DINO
Presented in conjunction with the UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability and Boom: A Journal of California


text:
The Complex World of Fertility Webcast, TEDxNorthwesternU"Teams dominate"
Published on 12 Jul 2012What does the world's largest repository (Thomson Web of Science) of more than 26 million scientific papers tell us about trends in the production of scientific knowledge? There appears to be a nearly universal end to the era of the solo scientist and a rise in the supremacy of teams. The advantage of teams is growing and frontier of knowledge is reached through the invisible but complex networks through which scientists assemble teams.
Brian Uzzi, PhD is the Richard L. Thomas Distinguished chair in leadership at the Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University.
Professor Uzzi speaks on the topics of leadership with a focus creating and developing networks that enhance executive creativity, R&D innovation, and the implementation of new products and ideas...


text:
- parapeted
- adjective see parapet
New Collegiate Dictionary. 2001.
New Collegiate Dictionary. 2001.
Parapeted — Par a*pet ed, a. Having a parapet. [1913 Webster] … The Collaborative International Dictionary of English
parapeted — par·a·pet·ed … English syllables
parapeted — rəˌpe]d.ə̇d, pə̇], ]tə̇d adjective : having a parapet * * * parˈapeted adjective Having a parapet • • • Main Entry: ↑parapet … Useful english dictionary
parapet — parapeted, adj. parapetless, adj. /par euh pit, pet /, n. 1. Fort. a. a defensive wall or elevation, as of earth or stone, in a fortification. See diag. under bastion. b. an elevation raised above the main wall or rampart of a permanent… … Universalium
Meridian Regional Airport — Key Field USGS aerial image 2 March 1996 IATA: MEI – ICAO: KMEI – FAA LID: MEI … Wikipedia
parapet — noun Etymology: Italian parapetto, from parare to shield (from Latin, to prepare) + petto chest, from Latin pectus more at pare, pectoral Date: 1590 1. a wall, rampart, or elevation of earth or stone to protect soldiers 2. a low wall or railing… … New Collegiate Dictionary
Houghton County, Michigan — Infobox U.S. County county = Houghton County state = Michigan map size = 200 founded = March 19, 1845 [http://www.michiganhistorymagazine.com/date/march03/03 19 1845.html] seat = Houghton | area total sq mi =1502 area water sq mi =490 area… … Wikipedia
Glenwood, Iowa — Infobox Settlement official name = Glenwood, Iowa settlement type = City nickname = motto = imagesize = 250px image caption = Looking west at Glenwood from Old Slaughterhouse Hill at the Glenwood Lake Park image image mapsize = 250px map caption … Wikipedia
Villa Lante — at Bagnaia near Viterbo, attributed to Giacomo Barozzi da Vignola (there is no contemporary documentation) is, with Bomarzo, one of the most famous Italian 16th century Mannerist gardens of surprises. The first shock to a visitor coming fresh… … Wikipedia
Crownhill Fort — Coordinates: 50°24′49″N 4°07′48″W / 50.41361°N 4.13°W / 50.41361; 4.13 … Wikipedia


text:
Browsing by Author "Azambuja, Marcelo Menna Barreto"
Now showing items 1-1 of 1
A decision support system for rapid evaluation and selection of engineered equipment suppliers Azambuja, Marcelo Menna Barreto (2009-08)Procurement's role in engineering and construction is changing. Procurement is evolving into a far more strategic discipline. Major equipment procurement in particular ties up a large proportion of construction cost, has ...


text:
tom makes pictures.
4 October 2005
The entry 'tom and the sky' was posted
on October 4th, 2005 at 5:19 pm
and is filed under General.
You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.
You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
wow, that is really really good!
looking very thoughtful there tom!
Name (required)
Mail (will not be published) (required)
Location : tom and the sky | tom makes pictures.
© 2017 tom makes pictures.. All rights reserved. Apricot theme designed by Ardamis.com.
tom makes pictures. is powered by WordPress 4.8
Entries (RSS) and Comments (RSS).


text:
This is for XBL, Xbox 360 users.
To access, go to Home>Online Association> Join
Association Name: HYPEBEAST2012
Association Password: WEINDIS
Quarters are set at 5 minutes.
It is a fantasy draft (serpentine, don't know what that means)
Season length - 29 games
Hall of Fame difficulty.
Trade deadline on.
Playoffs will be best of 7. Same goes for Finals.
The draft has been set for Tuesday, October 23rd @ 8PM MT, but that can be reset.
I've made it that date to give us a week to join.
If you've joined, list your GT along with the team you've selected to go with.
I'll start the list off.
GT: Decayin
Team: Phoenix Suns.


text:
Leota Ruth Jenkins, 98, of Cambridge, passed away Sept. 11, 2012, at the Red Carpet Health Care Center.
She was born on Nov. 2, 1913, in Ankertown/ East Cambridge, daughter of the late John Chester and Lucy Leota (Headley) Watson.
Also preceding her in death was her husband, Clarence Jenkins, in 1981; a son, Ernest P. Jenkins; a daughter, Norma Vivian Tourdot; a sister, Irma V. Mercer; and two brothers, Paul C. and Loren J. Watson.
Mrs. Jenkins was a 1931 graduate of Brown High School. She was a Protestant by faith, and retired from Mansfield Electrical Manufacturing Co., Mansfield, as an assembler and tester. She was a member of AFL-CIO/IUE, Retail Clerk's Union, AARP and a 60-year member of the order of Eastern Star and White Shrine of Jerusalem.
She is survived by a son, Charles B. Jenkins of Westerville; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorial services will be 2 p.m. Friday at Bundy-Law Funeral Home, Cambridge, with Pastor Karen Rawlins officiating.
Burial will be in Northwood Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Guernsey County Senior Citizens Center, Cambridge.
Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.bundy-lawfuneralhome.com.
Sorry to hear of Ruth's passing. She was a cousin and good friend of my mother, and I knew Ernie and Norma many years ago.
Paul Prine
There is another massive empty space in my life now. I know she is in a far better place with our family and friends, and I know she is happy with her dogs once again. There will never be another Nonnie like her again. Now if I can only remember where all the graves are in Northwood where we had to put plastic flowers by the headstones
several times a year.....


text:
Model Mayhem Admin
JillianeModel Female Chicago, Illinois, US
My Website: MySpaceMy MM URL: http://www.modelmayhem.com/jillicious
Mayhem # 153135
About Me
I am very outgoing and spontanious, and love new challenges. I am always up for new things, I enjoy the art of modeling and different ideas. I am always up for something new and intersting. I hope to achieve meeting new people. My goals are to finish school and get the best experiance out of modeling. I would also like to find out what I as a model am capeable of to the fullest extent. I would love to work with new photographers. I can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Have you worked with Jilliane? Add Credits for Jilliane! >>
Model Mayhem Admin
AZPhotoVis... Photographer
Toby Jorgensen Photographer
Risqe Factor Photographer
Raul Torres Photographer
RGA Photo Photographer
Loading Content


text:
Ford Truck Radios
We carry Ford Truck radio replacements that fit the original dash openings of the following year models: 1951-1952, 1968-1972 and 1973-1979 Ford trucks. All of our Ford Truck radios feature an auxiliary input so that you can play music from an iPod, iPhone, Android, satellite radio tuner, or other device with a headphone jack through the speakers of your classic Ford truck. A radios come with a two-year warranty and licensed by Ford with the Ford logo on the front of the radio.
The USA-230 Ford truck radio is an AM/FM radio with an auxiliary input and 200 watts of power. If you prefer to play your old cassettes, this radio has an AM/FM tuner with a cassette player radio and auxiliary input. The USA-630 has the same features of the USA-230, plus USB port, a CD Changer controller, a direct iPod connection and the ability to add Bluetooth by purchasing the BluKit Bluetooth accessory. For the 1953-1967 Ford truck models, we do not have original replacement radios that fit your original dash opening without you having to make modifications. If you have a radio within these years, you have two options. Please refer to our Custom Radio or USA-4 DIN Size Radios.
More Info on Ford Truck Radios
1951-1952 Ford Truck RadioFirst Generation Ford Trucks were introduced during the post, World War II era. In 1951-1952 revisions were made to the cabs, hoods and even the dashboard. As you restore your classic Ford truck we want to ensure you're able to maintain all of these vintage elements while also incorporating modern features such as a stereo radio.
We offer four different radio options for your first generation Ford truck that will fit in your dash without any cutting required and offer modern features such as a digital tuner and an auxiliary input. Our models from Custom Autosound have a classic, analog look while the radio is turned off and a digital display when the radio is turned on. The three models vary based on features from a basic AM/FM radio, to a cassette player to a full technology upgrade with the ability to add a CD changer and Bluetooth adapter.
If an exact working replica of your stock radio has been difficult to find search no more. Our radios from Antique Automobile Radio look identical to your original radio, with a moving needle and mechanical push buttons. The bonus of these OE replica radios is the modern internals, a digital tuner for high quality and stable reception and 180 watts of constant power. These radios are available with or without speakers that will fit in the original dash as well.
1953-1967 Ford Truck RadioWe offer 3 different solutions for 1953-1967 Ford Truck radios. Many of the early Ford trucks did not have a radio opening in the dash and many of the radio openings for the Ford trucks of the 60's will not fit as the opening is too small or the knob spacing does not work. Our solution is either the Secretaudio SST, the Secretaudio SRMS, or the USA-4 DIN radios. If your dash has not been cut, do not hurt the value and vintage look by cutting the dash of your classic Ford truck, rather install a Secretaudio system and keep the dash in tact while still cruisin' with your tunes. If your dash has been cut for a DIN size radio, we offer two different radios to give it that classic look instead of a Vegas style light show in the dash of your classic Ford truck.
1968-1972 Ford Truck RadioWe offer three different radios made by Custom Autosound that fit classic Ford trucks from 1968-1972 Ford truck models. These radios feature an auxiliary to hook up your classic iPod, iPhone, smartphone or satellite radio tuner. Custom Autosound radios that are compatible with this series of classic Ford trucks are: USA-630, USA-230 and the USA-1. All three radios offer basic AM/FM function, however other features vary by model.
1973-1979 Ford Truck RadioIf you have a sixth generation Ford Truck we have what you need to enhance the sound output to help you enjoy your classic Ford truck. A common feature among all three radio models we offer include an RCA, auxiliary input on the back of the radio to allow connection of an iPod, iPhone, smartphone or satellite radio tuner all which play music through the speakers. If you're looking to give your classic Ford truck Bluetooth capability that is also available too in addition to stereo sound. All radios are manufactured by Custom Autosound with a two year warranty and are officially licensed with the Ford logo.
1980-1986 Ford Truck RadioSeventh generation Ford trucks although more modern than their previous decades may still require a replacement radio over time. The three replacement radio options we have available, manufactured by Custom Autosound are the ideal solution for 1980-1986 Ford trucks.
All models we carry will fit in your original dash location without any modifications required and feature modern technology to include an RCA auxiliary input. An auxiliary input allows you to play any device with a headphone jack through the speakers of your truck. We carry the USA-230 if you need a basic AM/FM radio with an auxiliary input. If Bluetooth technology is a must have to make your truck equipped for safe, hands free communication we offer the USA-630 which can be connected a Bluetooth adapter.


text:
Republican Party leaders will go from spooked to something approaching outright panic.
Gingrich's rise in the polls has Romney spooked, and it showed at tonight's debate.
So why are Democrats spooked by a 41-year-old attorney general from New Hampshire?
Opponents might get spooked and cave, in which case the White House would have a nice victory to pocket.
I remember Lucille Ball once came to our house, to a party, and I kind of spooked her by my seriousness.
Or perhaps when I dropped the word "legal," the people behind WeedPortal.com got spooked.
Global corporate investors, whose intellectual capital is crucial for Israeli entrepreneurship, will be spooked.
Takeovers of foreign companies and government intervention in the markets have spooked investors, hollowing out key industries.
He spooked at imagined noises and thudding rain and the dry creaking of the old house as he toweled off and dressed.
Jed looked quickly at Cal when he told him how the colonists had spooked, bolted in panic.
1801, from Dutch spook, from Middle Dutch spooc "spook, ghost," from a common Germanic source (cf. German Spuk "ghost, apparition," Middle Low German spok "spook," Swedish spok "scarecrow," Norwegian spjok "ghost, specter," Danish spøg "joke"), of unknown origin. Possible outside connections include Lettish spigana "dragon, witch," spiganis "will o' the wisp," Lithuanian spingu, spingeti "to shine," Old Prussian spanksti "spark."
Meaning "undercover agent" is attested from 1942. The derogatory racial sense of "black person" is attested from 1940s, perhaps from notion of dark skin being difficult to see at night. Black pilots trained at Tuskegee Institute during World War II called themselves the Spookwaffe.
1867, "to walk or act like a ghost," from spook (n.). Meaning "to unnerve" is from 1935. Related: Spooked; spooking.
1867, "to walk or act like a ghost," from spook (n.). Meaning "to unnerve" is from 1935. Related: Spooked; spooking.
Frightened, startled; in a panic (1937+)
To put on edge; make apprehensive; frighten: ''It's the first time in my life I've ever been spooked,'' says a Byrd staffer (1935+)
[fr Dutch]


text:
Put Your Dividend Stock Investing Knowledge to the Test
Dividend stock investing has once again become a hot topic with the investing public. After long stints of avaricious performance chasing in the late 1990s and mid 2000s that ultimately turned south, investors now realize that the gains you make in a stock aren't just via the share price. In fact, the dividends and income paid out by a stock can really take care of investors, especially during times where volatile price swings are the norm. And while it's true that many companies either lowered or halted dividend payouts altogether in response to the "Great Recession," a huge number of fantastic dividend stocks have returned to paying out very attractive income.
If you're looking to take advantage of this new, old trend toward buying companies with sound dividend payouts, then there a few things you need to know.
The following 10 questions will test your knowledge, and hopefully, teach you a thing or two about how to make the most of your dividend stock investing and income-investing efforts.


text:
§60-3A-18. Days and hours retail licensees may sell liquor.
Retail licensees may not sell liquor on Sundays and Christmas day, or between the hours of twelve midnight and eight o'clock a.m., except that wine and fortified wines may be sold on those days and at such times as authorized in section thirty-four, article eight of this chapter.


text:
The latest novel from Samantha Harvey is truly superb, but left its reviewer at a loss for how to describe it.
What do you look for in a good book, as a reader and reviewer?
Our reviewer Michael Caines asks if the eclecticism adds up to an adventure.
The reviewer's final queries about "a number of loose ends" give as much flavor of the whole as the critique that precedes it.
The only time I looked at a review on Amazon, the reviewer reminded me of Kathy Bates in Misery.
The reviewer asks: "Were those five persons executed that day without any spiritual adviser?"
It states that she joined the staff of The Freewoman as a reviewer in 1911.
The reviewer represents me as prejudiced against Cotton Mather.
We have seen how our reviewer makes, let us now see how he unmakes, history.
Does he always speak of himself in the plural, like a king, or a reviewer?
1610s, "one who reviews" (in any sense), agent noun from review (v.). Specifically, "one who critically examines and passes judgment on new publications or productions; a writer of reviews" is from 1650s.


text:
Rent De Gaulle and the United States 1st edition today, or search our site for other textbooks by Robert O. Paxton. Every textbook comes with a 21-day "Any Reason" guarantee. Published by Bloomsbury Academic.
Need help ASAP? We have you covered with 24/7 instant online tutoring. Connect with one of our tutors now.


text:
2 Min Read
BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The European Union will put on hold its rule that all airlines must pay for their emissions on flights to and from Europe, but will resume enforcement if a U.N. airline body fails to deliver a global deal, Climate Commissioner Connie Hedegaard said.
EU airlines will still have to pay for their carbon emissions under existing rules and EU member states will still have to formally endorse the Commission's exemption for non-EU carriers, Hedegaard said.
She added that she had informed representatives of the 27 member states of the Commission's plan.
The European Union has come under intense international pressure to tear up its law making all airlines using EU airports buy carbon allowances on its Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).
The Commission, the EU's executive, has repeatedly said it will only change its rules if the United Nations' International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) can agree an alternative scheme to help curb rising airline emissions.
"To create a positive atmosphere, we have agreed to stop the clock," Hedegaard told a news briefing on Monday.
"If this exercise ends in nothing, we are back to exactly where we were with the EU ETS automatically," she said, adding that this would give the U.N. airlines body, the ICAO, until next November to strike a new deal.
The Commission has repeatedly said it only put its law in place after more than a decade of inaction at the ICAO.
"Nobody wants an international framework on aviation more than we do," Hedegaard said. "For the first time in years a global deal should be in reach."
Reporting by Barbara Lewis; editing by Rex Merrifield


text:
You have no items in your shopping cart.
Go To Cart/Shop By Item#: Click Here >
QuickFix+ Battery Powered Eraser is an amazingly useful tool for home, office and studio. The small size of the 5mm eraser allows erasing of very precise areas with very little pressure—without tearing even the most gentle paper surfaces. Erase what you want without erasing what you don't want!


text:
International Center
806 Kenton Street
Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101
Phone: 270-781-8336
Fax: 270-781-8136
Website: http://icofky.org/
Service Area: Bowling Green/Warren County and surrounding areas
Hours: M-F 8:30 A.M. - 4:30 P.M.
Cost: Nominal cost for some immigration services
Service Description: Serves area foreign-born families through advocacy, facilitation of economic self-sufficiency, and empowerment of the communities, while supporting cultural integrity and family solidarity. Services include Refugee resettlement, social services, immigration assistance, interpreting/translating, English Language Training, citizenship education/assistance, computer skills training, job placement, advocacy, community orientation, passport/green card photos, elder and youth programs, clothes and food assistance. Recognized by the Board of Immigration Appeals.
If your nonprofit agency or organization would like to update your information, please contact the ALIVE Center at 270-782-0082 or email us at firstname.lastname@example.com.
If your nonprofit agency or organization would like include your information in our directory, please complete the human service directory blank form, and return it to the ALIVE Center or email it to firstname.lastname@example.com.
We ask that any nonprofit, civic organization or WKU department using our meeting space, complete the form before reserving a room.
Note: documents in Portable Document Format (PDF) require Adobe Acrobat Reader 5.0 or higher to view,
download Adobe Acrobat Reader.
Note: documents in Excel format (XLS) require Microsoft Viewer,
download excel.
Note: documents in Word format (DOC) require Microsoft Viewer,
download word.
Note: documents in Powerpoint format (PPT) require Microsoft Viewer,
download powerpoint.
Note: documents in Quicktime Movie format [MOV] require Apple Quicktime,
download quicktime.


text:
Even Cows Do Yoga
by Anne Dalton, author & illustrator
About the Book
Betsy the Cow loves doing yoga. She has found a group of students and teachers that have enjoyed doing yoga with her. This is the first in a series of books that tells the story of how it all began.
Features & Details
- Category Children
Standard Landscape, 10×8 in, 25×20 cm
58 Pages
- Publish Date Jul 16, 2012
- Tags chirp and moo, betsy the cow, lou says moo, children's book, yoga, whimsical
See More
About the Creator
Chirp and Moo
los angeles
Chirp and Moo is the parent company of such characters as Betsy the Cow, Lou says Moo, and Otis the Penguin. Our Mission is to Delight, Uplift as well as Inspire Learning, Creativity and an Element of Social Responsibility to Children of all ages.
Log in or create an account to post a comment.
0 Comments
Delete this comment?
See More


text:
|Web Site Information :.
|Site Info Whois Traceroute RBL Check
786 - Quran-o-Itrat Academy spreading Quran and Etrat education.Description: Quran-o-Itrat Academy web is all about Istifta , Books Of Mujtahid ( Maraja-e-Uzzam ) with the online question and answer system for commonly asked questions. And many more about Islam and other Shia features.
Keywords: qoitrat, Itrat, Etrat, QOI, QIA, Quran , Itrat, Academy, Shia, Jang, Ummat, Geo, Jeo, Sistani, Khamenai, Khomeini, sawal , jawab, Pakistan, Quran-o-Itrat Academy, web is all about Istifta, Books Of Maraja-e-Uzzam, with the online, question and answer system for commonly asked questions. And many more about Islam and other Shia features, Imam, eman and much more..
Tags: qoitrat, quran, itrat, academy, etrat, spreading, education, questions, books, click, new, qia, question, online, program, duroos, ashra, muharram, aasan, rasta, sawal, answers, book, special, today, ramzan, aaj, deen, madarsa, sunday, hawza, muqabala, rajab, papers, fahmi, women, girls, downloads, announcement, shia,
|IP Index TLD Index Domain Index Site Index
|Copyright © 2013 dawhois.com


text:
by Staff Writers
Sacramento CA (SPX) Jan 07, 2016
Aerojet Rocketdyne received a $6 million contract from the U.S. Air Force to define the standards that will be used to qualify additively manufactured components for use in liquid-fueled rocket engine applications. The award is part of the U.S. Air Force Booster Propulsion Technology Maturation Broad Agency Announcement, which is part of a comprehensive Air Force plan to transition off the Russian-made RD-180 engines currently used on the Atlas V launch vehicle.
Aerojet Rocketdyne will draw upon its extensive experience with additive manufacturing, often referred to as 3-D printing, to establish the standards to qualify 3-D printed rocket engine components for flight.
"New liquid rocket engine designs-like the AR1 engine we are building to replace the Russian-made RD-180-are increasingly taking advantage of 3-D printing technology because it reduces the amount of time and money required to build these complex components," said Julie Van Kleeck, vice president of Advanced Space and Launch Programs at Aerojet Rocketdyne.
"It is imperative that engine manufacturers understand the qualification methodology for this revolutionary technology because of the criticality of the assets they help launch into space."
The use of additive manufacturing technology reduces the cost to produce components, shortens build times and provides flexibility to engineers to design components that were once impossible to build using traditional manufacturing techniques. This program will define the rigorous engineering and inspection processes to be followed when producing and testing 3-D printed components to assure that they meet the stringent requirements of aerospace systems.
Aerojet Rocketdyne has a long history of developing new materials and manufacturing processes that support complex engine designs. In 2014, the company successfully hot-fire tested an engine made entirely with additive manufacturing that had a thrust of 5,000 pounds, and in 2015 the company used additive manufacturing to replicate the injector of the gas generator used on the Apollo-era F-1 rocket engine to demonstrate that a proven design can be built at a competitive cost without sacrificing performance.
"We are taking our seven decades of experience in building rocket engines, which represents more than 2,100 successful launches, and combining that with our in-depth knowledge of additive manufacturing to assist the Air Force in defining qualification requirements for this technology," said Dr. Jay Littles, director of Advanced Launch Vehicle Propulsion at Aerojet Rocketdyne.
"In fact, Fast Company magazine named Aerojet Rocketdyne No. 1 in its ranking of 'The World's Top 10 Most Innovative Companies of 2015 in Space,' because of the company's advances in additive manufacturing."
"Incorporating additive manufacturing and the new qualification processes into our AR1 design will be essential to having an American engine for the Atlas V and proposed Vulcan launch vehicles ready by 2019," added Van Kleeck.
Related Links
Aerojet Rocketdyne
Space Technology News - Applications and Research
|The content herein, unless otherwise known to be public domain, are Copyright 1995-2017 - Space Media Network. All websites are published in Australia and are solely subject to Australian law and governed by Fair Use principals for news reporting and research purposes. AFP, UPI and IANS news wire stories are copyright Agence France-Presse, United Press International and Indo-Asia News Service. ESA news reports are copyright European Space Agency. All NASA sourced material is public domain. Additional copyrights may apply in whole or part to other bona fide parties. All articles labeled "by Staff Writers" include reports supplied to Space Media Network by industry news wires, PR agencies, corporate press officers and the like. Such articles are individually curated and edited by Space Media Network staff on the basis of the report's information value to our industry and professional readership. Advertising does not imply endorsement, agreement or approval of any opinions, statements or information provided by Space Media Network on any Web page published or hosted by Space Media Network. Privacy Statement


text:
Carilion Clinic's full-service otolaryngology/head and neck surgery team includes our physicians, physician assistants, audiologists, and nurse practitioners. They provide ear, nose, and throat, and head and neck surgery for adults and children along with a full range of ENT services.
- Surgical options for chronic ear infections, hearing loss, ear pain, drainage, and dizziness
- Evaluation and fitting of hearing aids
Throat, Voice, Swallowing
- Surgical treatment for tonsils and adenoids
- Treatment for speech and swallowing conditions
- Surgical options for goiters, thyroid and parathyroid gland masses and disorders, and masses of the salivary glands
- Treatment for airway obstruction and chronic sinus infections
Oral Cavity
- Treatment for snoring and sleep apnea, including somnoplasty and injection snoreplasty
Facial Surgery
- Treatment for facial and nasal fractures and lacerations


text:
Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey's recent trip to Italy was a last-ditch attempt to save their marriage, according to music manager Lou Pearlman
While they are busy denying rumors claiming their marriage is on rock, Hollywood couple, Jessica Simpson and husband Nick Lachey, is reported to have a "to-save marriage" trip. It is said that their recent trip to Italy was their last attempt to save their marriage. Well at least that's what music manager Lou Pearlman said.
Pearlman, who represents Lachey's friend and former 98 Degrees bandmate Jeff Timmons, claimed to have heard the couple is struggling. "Timmons says Nick told him, 'My marriage is shaky right now. I'm hoping this trip will turn things around. This trip could be a second honeymoon - or preparation for a divorce. I don't know what's going to happen, and Jessica doesn't know what's going to happen, but we're going to give it our best shot.'" So he said to America's Star magazine.
However, representatives for both stars insist the claims are not true. Anyway, the couple would have their third-year wedding anniversary on Wednesday, so let's hope the best for them.


text:
Private Lessons
Operations Update: Stowe is closed for the Winter season.
Looking for the quickest route to rapid improvement?
Let us find the right coach for you! Our vacation planners are experienced, specifically trained, and we really care about finding the perfect coach for every person. With the help of state of the art technology, we have successfully created relationships that will last a lifetime. We'd love to build some memories for you!
Want to tackle our spring bumps? Like to learn to ski and ride like a local? Or are you just getting starting on your winter skiing and riding? We have a coach for you whatever your needs!
Online Private Lessons Pre-Registration Form.
Contact us: Call 802-253-3681 or stop by a Ski & Snowboard School desk, located at the Spruce Camp Base Lodge and the Mansfield Base Lodge.
Would you rather not use the online web form? Can we call you? Please email us and provide us with a brief description of your needs, a phone number, and a good time for us to call you. We'd love to help you arrange your lessons at Stowe Mountain Resort!
|Private Lessons 2016/17 Rates
|1 Person
|2-5 People
|Full Day (6 consecutive hours)
|3 Hour lesson
|2 Hour lesson
|First Tracks [Weekends & Holidays Only] 7:30am-9:30am, meeting at the FourRunner Quad. 20% off the regular retail rate!
|1 Hour lesson*
|Kids Super Start (ages 3-14, 8:30-9:30)
*One hour lessons are booked at 8:30am, 9:00am , 2:30pm or 3:00pm.
Cancellation Policy:
In order to secure your reservation, we charge a deposit of $100 per instructor at the time of booking. 24 hours prior to your arrival, the deposit is applied and the balance of your reservation is charged in full. Up to 24 hours of your reservation you may change or cancel your reservation with no penalty. Should your plans change within a 24 hour period of the reservation, the deposit will be used per our cancellation policy. "No-Shows" will be charged in full for the first lesson and subsequent lessons will be cancelled.
Want to reserve a specific instructor? Our ski and snowboard instructors are very popular so we recommend you book early. Understand that the cancellation policy for request private lessons (those asking for a specific coach by name) is different than the standard policy. Details are available when you reserve.
Weather and snow conditions are not viable reasons for cancellation–we strongly recommend you check the weather a couple of days prior to your reservations. Our direct line is 802-253-3681. We do not accept cancellations via email. Thanks for your understanding.
Please note, all rates and dates subject to change without notice.


text:
Join us for an in-store book signing with Denise Kiernan, author of The Girls of Atomic City: The Untold Story of the Women who Helped Win World War II.
This is the incredible story of the young women who left their homes from all across the United States under a shroud of mystery, having only been promised good wages and work that would help to bring about the end of WW II. Their destination, unknown to them, was Oak Ridge, Tennessee. A town which was created from scratch, it did not appear on any map until 1949 and was home to more than 75,000 people all brought together to complete what later was known as the top secret program that produced the atomic bomb.
With a diverse collection of details, Kiernan masterfully paints a vivid intimate portrait of the lives of these extraordinary women and the incredible scientific developments of the 20th century. As the story unfolds, readers start to understand the magnitude and implications of the Manhattan Project and share the strong mix of emotions that these workers have endured.


text:
June 02, 2006 at 19:32:57 Jun 02, 2006 @ 19:32
exactly how limited are the pixies n ivsible af1s,cuz i copped the invisible n i found a spot dat holdin da pixies,shood i cop the pixies is dey limtied 4 real n is the watermelon kwiis reel limtied also....what are the most limited in order???iigh ty guys holla@me,,1!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


text:
Review Options:
Sorted by Latest Review | Sort by Best Rating
| View All
Review DateNovember 13, 2003
Overall Rating 5 of 5
Value Rating 4 of 5
Reviewed by: (Unregistered User)
, from Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
Summary:Great pack. I needed to cut down on pack weight, since I'm getting old, so I expected to have to sacrifice some comfort to do so, but I was pleasantly suprised by this pack in that respect. I have used it on a5 day trip in Scandinavia, and several 2-4 day trips here in Arkansas, and have no complaints whatsoever. Weighs 1/2 of what my old Gregory Teton did, and is almost as comfortable. Price was kinda steep, though.
Customer Service:Haven't needed it.
Similar Products Used:Gregory Teton.
Review DateMay 28, 2002
Reviewed by: Phantom(Unregistered User)
Summary:This pack is almost perfect for long distance hikers, or anyone looking to trim pounds off their pack weight. The suspension is great up to 35-40 lbs. The backpad is only two vertical pads that help in keeping your back plenty cool. Mtnsmith's Delta hipbelt straps are supercomfortable, i can't believe other manufacturers aren't putting these on. The really help suck the pack onto your lumbar area. The packbag itself is very straightforward, just a tall main compartment with two mesh side pockets and a bungee on the front. I don't use the top lid, it just makes getting in and out more complicated. I wish they would just have one buckle to the lid.
As for complaints, they are few and minor. Placing the hydration sleeve right behind your back means you never have very cold water. The hipbelt is a little thin for my bony hips, and leaves bruises only after the first day out. Although claiming 4200 cu. in. the packbag seems a little smaller than that. And like I said earlier, I wish it had a monobuckle lid. All in all, this isn't much considering it weighs 3 1/2 lbs and carries 35 easy.
Overall I think this is an excellent pack, and kudos to mountainsmith for setting the new trend in pack design.
Customer Service:never used
Similar Products Used:Gregory Reality, Palisade, Dana Glacier, Arcteryx 70
Review DateApril 5, 2002
Overall Rating 4 of 5
Value Rating 5 of 5
Reviewed by: berkaser(Unregistered User)
Summary:This is an awesome pack. I purchased it because it's simple, light, and fairly weathertight for an AT thru-hike this year. I just got back from a 5-day trip on which I was carrying much more (around 35-40 lbs) than I will this summer, and the pack worked great. I really think the simplicity of the system is great, with no excess padding, and the back ventilation is the best I have found on an internal frame. The only weakness might be the lack of organization (no zip opening and only 1 compartment) but this helps keep the weight down and helps with the durability. It's also a great value, even at the MSRP of $250. Nothing is perfect though, so I'd give it 4+ stars.
Similar Products Used:Gregory Pallisades, TNF Renegade, External Framed (Kelty, Peak 1)
Review DateJanuary 6, 2002
Reviewed by: Chad Brow(Unregistered User)
, from Middletown, RI
Summary:I used this for my AT thruhike and was totally happy with it. I originally used an EMS 5500 cu. inch pack, it was too big and way too heavy (almost 8 lbs). I'd say this pack is perfect fot thruhiking or any 3 season hiking carrying up to 30 lbs. It has great support, like a full hip belt and load lifters. In the summer I leave the top pouch at home and save 6 oz. The new 2002 Auspex is even lighter at only 3 lbs. 6oz! Nice...
Customer Service:Wayne at Bluff Mtn. Outfitters was very helpful and carefully gave me pack options and fitted it for me.
Similar Products Used:EMS 5500, it has a lot of options, is big, and HEAVY!
Review DateDecember 5, 2001
Visitors rate this review4.00 of 5,
1.00 votes
Reviewed by: Backpacker Jim(Unregistered User)
, from lexington
Summary:I bought the auspix back last summer and used it all summer and fall. I bought it to reduce my pack weight and it worked. I am an old school backpacker and am not willing to give up comfort for weight. With this pack I didn't have to. I kept working on it and got my pack weight down to twenty pounds with this pack in the summer with all of my gear including my water, tent and food. Boy what a difference it is to hike with fifteen pounds less. The auspix is a great pack much lighter than my shasta and is just as comfortable when carrying light loads like twenty pounds. The spinal chimmney works great, my back doesn't get quite as hot and I can feel the cooler air flow through it. The hydration blatter pocket is great to have and a lot less trouble than the pocket in my shasta. I load it up with my one hundred ounce cammel back and have water all day long. The pockets on the sides are great for storing my fuel bottle and spare water bottle. The little pocket inside of the top hood pocket is great for storing my keys as not to lose them. The cons are if I load it up with twenty five to thirty pounds then it's not quite as comfortable as my shasta plus if I backpack in the winter there is not enough room for all of my winter gear. I have switched back to my shasta now to be able to haul all of my winter gear. At thirty pounds the shasta is more sited for the job. and is more comfortable. Bottom line the aspix is a great little pack for three seasons use with light loads of up to twenty five pounds and its narrow profile makes it easy to walk through the trees, but if you carry a lot of gear or heavy loads buy the gregory. If you have two different systems, one for summer and one for winter like me, than the auspix is ideal for a summer time system.
Customer Service:Great! when I bought threw the mail it came with too small of a hip belt I e-mailed Mountain smith explaned the problem and they promptly switched with me
Similar Products Used:coleman, kelty, ll bean, gregory