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Life Sciences»Diagnostics»Medical Imaging»Radiography & X-Rays
United Kingdom C-Arms Market Outlook to 2020SummaryGlobalData's new report, United Kingdom C-Arms Market Outlook to 2020, provides key market data on the United Kingdom C-Arms market. The report provides value, in millions of US dollars, and volume (in units) and average price data (in US dollars), within market category.The report also provides company shares and distribution shares data for the market, and global corporate-level profiles of the key market participants, pipeline products, and news and deals related to the C-Arms market wherever available.The data in the report is derived from dynamic market forecast models. GlobalData uses capital equipment–based models to estimate and forecast the market size. The objective is to provide information that represents the most up-to-date data of the industry possible.Capital equipment–based forecasting models are done based on the installed base, replacements and new sales of a specific device/equipment in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics and diagnostic centers. Data for average number of units per facility is used to arrive at the installed base of the capital equipment. Sales for a particular year are arrived at by calculating the replacement units and new units (additional and first-time purchases).Extensive interviews are conducted with key opinion leaders (KOLs), physicians and industry experts to validate the market size, company share and distribution share data and analysis.Scope
Companies MentionedGE HealthcareSiemens HealthcarePhilips HealthcareZiehm Imaging GmbHGeneral Medical Merate S.p.A.Toshiba Medical Systems CorporationShimadzu CorporationCountryUnited KingdomSectorDiagnostic Imaging
Learn how to effectively navigate the market research process to help guide your organization on the journey to success.


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Lord Bell
Margaret Thatcher's former PR guru Lord Bell criticised by Radio 5 Live listeners after making light of air crash
The Ulsterman's career has taken him from the backrooms of loyalist politics to the glitz of west London's Hurlingham Club
Lord Bell's attempt to buy back his eponymous PR agency Bell Pottinger criticised by WPP chief. By Mark Sweney
No cash bonus payouts for 2011 after PR division Bell Pottinger is knocked by the loss of its largest US government contract. By Mark Sweney
Chime Communications remains confident it can replace lost earnings with growth from its sports marketing division
Chime Communications to buy Gulliford Consulting in initial £2.5m cash-and-shares deal that could end up being worth £4.75m. By Mark Sweney
Job: Chairman, Chime Communications
Age: 69
Industry: public relations
Revenue: £299.8m
Staff: 1,249
New entry
Chime buys 60% share in Brazilian sports rights firm prior to country's 2014 World Cup and Rio's 2016 Olympics. By Mark Sweney
PR firm founder has contract amended so he never has to retire. By Mark Sweney
Lord Bell's marketing services group reports 14% hike in pre-tax profits for 2010, with strong performance from PR division. By Mark Sweney
Lord Bell's marketing services group posts record £12.3m for first half of 2010. By John Plunkett
Marketing and communications group expects to beat analyst expectations in the first six months of the year. By Mark Sweney
Marketing services group Chime Communications reports 'best ever' performance in face of recession year. By Mark Sweney
One of London's best-connected businessmen is not involved in finding high net worth individuals for the sponsorship drive
Guardian diary DiaryHugh MuirHugh Muir: Not me guv, said the noble Lord Bell. So what do they pay him for again?
During this week's Media Talk, the Guardian director of digital content, Emily Bell, surmised that that the acquisition of a controlling stake in the PoliticsHome website by Lord Ashcroft might be significant
Recession-busting results reported, as half-year profits climb to £8.5m at Lord Bell-owned group. By Mark Sweney
Head of PR and marketing services group Chime got 20% boost in total remuneration package last year. By Mark Sweney
Nick Davies is leading off in what promises to be a lively, and possibly heated, debate this evening. He is proposing the motion, "The growth of PR is threatening the integrity of the press." I'm seconding. It is opposed by Tim (aka Lord) Bell (who has just taken on the president of Belarus as a client) and Phil Hall (who is acting for Max Mosley, having previously acted for Heather Mills).
Back to earth with a bumpTim Bell
Tim Bell: Terminal 5's first day has turned into a PR disaster for all concerned. BA's boss, Willie Walsh, will have to offer more than a mere apology
Alexander Lukashenko, Belarus's autocratic president, has hired veteran British spin doctor Tim Bell to improve his country's image. By Luke Hardin
Former Sun editor Stuart Higgins has sold his PR company to a subsidiary of Lord Bell's Chime Communications. By Chris Tryhorn
Former Olympians Alan Pascoe, Edward Leask and Jon Ridgeon today sold the sports marketing agency they founded nine years ago to Lord Bell's PR and advertising group Chime Communications in a deal worth up to £43m.
Tim Bell: There were no memorable lines in David Cameron's speech that had not been said before, notably by Tony Blair.
Taken for a rideTim Bell
Tim Bell: Was David Cameron's dog sleigh photo call a PR stunt too far?
12pm: Chime Communications, Lord Bell's PR, advertising and marketing group, reported a 34% rise in pre-tax profits to £8.6m last year following acquisitions such as ad agency VCCP. By Stephen Brook.
10.45am: Veteran PR man Piers Pottinger - who co-founded Bell Pottinger with Tim Bell - is to become non-executive chairman of interactive betting group Sportech. By Chris Tryhorn.
11am: Lord Bell's Chime Communications today announced it had sold its remaining 51% stake in advertising agency HHCL United to Sir Martin Sorrell's WPP group. By Stephen Brook.
Chime Communications, the PR and marketing services group run by Tim Bell, Margaret Thatcher's favourite PR man, today reported increases in income and profits as it continued its recovery. By Chris Tryhorn.
Four advertising executives will share in £30m after their marketing company was bought out by Lord Bell's public relations agency, Chime Communications.
8.30am: Margaret Thatcher's top PR adviser Lord Bell has criticised the Conservatives' general election campaign, saying it failed to produce a 'single memorable advertisement'. By Stephen Brook.

subset: commoncrawl


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Target: President Obama
Goal: Protect the environment by not approving construction of the Keystone XL pipeline
Days after a memorable Inauguration speech promising to finally address the problems climate change, President Obama must put his environmental convictions to the test. The Keystone XL oil pipeline, a massive project of the TransCanada oil company, won its final state-level battle with the recent approval from the governor of Nebraska. Now, all that stands in the way of construction for the 1,700-mile-long project is the endorsement of the President, who must sign off on plans to build across international borders. Urge President Obama to get serious about climate change by denying approval of this dangerous pipeline.
Numerous scientists and environmental groups have protested the pipeline's construction since its initial proposal in 2008. The new section of pipeline, known as Phase 4, is planned to stretch from Alberta, Canada to Oklahoma, cutting through five states and thousands of miles of pristine Mid-Western habitat. Construction of the pipeline would certainly disrupt adjoining ecosystems and introduce risks of devastating oil spills.
The pipeline's threat to local wildlife, however, is only half of the problem. Climate change activists point out that Keystone XL would worsen the already dire process of greenhouse gas emissions due to the harmful nature of TransCanada's production processes. The oil carried by the pipeline would be refined from tar sands, and this method has been shown to produce significantly greater amounts of greenhouse gasses than conventional refinement methods. A spike in these gasses from additional tar sand refinement is not something the global climate can afford.
As President Obama noted in his recent Inauguration speech, the dangers of climate change cannot be ignored any longer. Ask him to endorse his rhetoric with real action and say no to the Keystone XL pipeline.
Dear President Obama,
In your recent Inauguration speech, you proclaimed that the dangers of climate change can no longer be ignored. In keeping with your promise to address the threats posed by climate change, I ask you to deny the Keystone XL oil pipeline your approval for construction.
The environmental costs posed by the pipeline's construction are simply too great to justify by any economic benefits. The pipeline would disrupt thousands of miles of pristine natural habitat in some of the most beautiful open spaces our nation possesses. In addition to immediate damages from construction, these landscapes would be further threatened by the risk of devastating oil spills that could harm these spaces irreparably. As we learned too well in the Gulf of Mexico, even the slightest risk may still be too much.
Most importantly, the approval of the pipeline would explicitly endorse a method of oil refinement that is known to produce far greater volumes of harmful gasses than conventional practices. Tar sand refinement poses a significant threat to effective climate change management; it is precisely the type of practice that you pledged to reduce in your Inaugural speech. To approve the Keystone XL pipeline would constitute a step backward. We cannot afford to do so any longer.
I ask you, Mr. President, to take a significant step forward. Don't allow the Keystone XL pipeline to damage our cherished natural spaces, and don't delay the fight against climate change any longer. Please say no to the Keystone XL oil pipeline.
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: rickz via flickr


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Samsung Galaxy S5 Concept – The Next Galaxy
Sep 19,2013 38 Comments
Samsung Galaxy S5 is going to be the most talked about smartphone in coming months as its release date approaches. I'm sure that it will jump over the popularity level of every event happened so far. The talks and on-going rumors about the next flagship Galaxy support my belief. Many concepts about the Galaxy S5 have surfaced over the web that suggests different features in this upcoming flagship Galaxy device. After a deep research, your favorite Galaxy S5 blog – Galaxy S5 info – is up with its own Galaxy S5 Concept. Check out all the features of our Galaxy S5 concept below.
Let me start explaining our Galaxy S5 concept from its most glowing part. Any guesses? It's display. The concept has flexible display that wraps around the edges. To be precise, Galaxy S5 concept created by us has Flexible OLED YOUM Display that is of 5.3-inches in size. This display technology will change the way you use the smartphone. Yeah, you'll get a totally unique display experience. This flexible display has oleophobic coating which makes it even more eye-popping.
Not enough? The screen is extended side which removes the physical buttons from the side. This behavior of the screen is not only meant to provide more evolutionary design, but also to provide a touch sensor based buttons for volume and camera. It will also provide menu shortcuts and other navigational options while you are using apps.
Galaxy S5 concept made by us has a renovated home button to deliver a touch sensor based experience, which means no physical home button. The home button glows which make it look even better.
This concept has Aluminium Unibody Construction and a waterproof and shockproof body. Waterproof body is something that will be admired by every fan of Samsung. Moreover, it will help Samsung keep its reputation in the market, as there has already started trend of waterproof smartphones, and the most important thing is that, people love those 'extremely protected' smartphones. Talking more about the design part, there is touch sensor based power button along with a glowing led for notifications like missed calls, SMS, mails, etc. This feature is something quite impressive.
The profile switch button will allow users to keep customized settings under two options – one is the max performance mode and the other is the hybrid PowerSaver mode. It will come handy when users are on remote places and need to keep their device alive. The new power save mode in galaxy SV will provide 50% more runtime.
The concept of Galaxy S5 created by us has got SIM slots, microSD slots and charging ports in one place. We believe that Samsung will bless Galaxy S5 in this way only so as to deliver a unique design to customers, which will please them for sure. Samsung has learned well from its experience that design does play an important role in deciding destiny of a smartphone in the market. Company will surely implement learning from its experience in its next flagship Galaxy device that we are talking about.
Talking about the inner hardware specifications of the concept made by us, the best eye-catching part is processor. There is 2GHz Exynos 5 OctaCore processor which is meant to deliver a smooth experience. The users will be able to do whatever they want, at a blazing speed. Most of concepts of Galaxy S5 claim that this smartphone will have Android Key Lime Pie version, but we are different here. We believe that this device will come up with the recently announced Android 4.4 Kitkat OS.
In the imaging part, there is a 16MP Primary Camera in the device. What makes this camera unique is its Carl Ziess lens. To allow you to shoot perfect moments, the primary camera has got Samsung's own S:Vision sensor. To drop a better light on the object so as to click the high-quality image in low light or dark areas, there is Xenon Flash placed right on the top of lenses. The front camera is of 3.2MP which shoots HD videos of 720p quality.
Also read: Samsung must surprise with Galaxy S5 camera
To please customers of different storage needs, Samsung will make the Galaxy S5 available in three storage options of 32GB, 64GB and 128GB. 128GB is too much? Well, when a device like mentioned in this concept is in hands, even 128GB becomes less. This concept created by us has 3GB RAM in it. We believe that this perfect combination of memory will be blessed by Samsung in the Galaxy S5.
In our Galaxy S5 concept, there is awesome sound quality, thanks to Quad Surround speakers with S::Surround Technology. It is powered by 3200mAh Li-ion battery, which will give you 50% more battery life than the current Galaxy S4. It also supports wireless charging.
Check out the key specs of our Galaxy SV concept below.
The release date for Galaxy S5 is rumored to be Q1 of next year. The exact specs will get cleared then only. We believe that actual S5 will resemble to our concept to some extent at the very least, if not all. Let's wait for actual product to get unveiled.


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I'm an idiot when it comes to garden design. To up my skills in this department I attended the annual Garden Blogger's Fling last week, which took place this year in San Francisco. Thankfully the Fling did not involve sitting in a sterile hotel conference room. Instead, we boarded two buses and took a look at fifteen spectacular gardens in the bay area over three days.
I'll share the gardening lessons I learned over a couple of posts. But if I could take away only one lesson it would be this: every garden has a purpose, but great gardens have clear and beneficial purposes.


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Cynthia Rebholz, M.S., LCMFT
Marriage and Family Therapist
Clarksburg, Maryland 20871
Depression is often defined as a negative view of self, other and even the world turned inward. We will work to change your negative perceptions, attributions and quiet your inner critic. You will learn to recognize strengths in yourself and others as tools to send depression packing. You will learn positive ways to cope with stressors and soothe your mind.


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Rollins' season ends with a record of 12-11 while Lynn improves to 16-6 and will face Barry in the South Region Final on Tuesday.
Making their NCAA record 31st NCAA Postseason appearance, the Tars fell behind, 2-1, after doubles, picking up a point in the No. 3 match when Robin Marchione and Adrian Di Felice beat Tomas Prokop and Alessio Iannozzi, 8-6.
Lynn extended their lead to 3-1 with a win in the top-flight singles match but the Tars continued to battle, leading at one point in four of the five matches still in play.
Unfortunately, the Fighting Knights came back to win the No. 3 match to push their lead to 4-1 before finally clinching the match when #49 Daniel Riggs knocked off #48 Marchione, 7-5, 6-4, in the No. 2 match.
Tars' seniors, Jason Alabaster, Ari Davis and Cooper Maxwell, end their careers with a four-year record of 59-39 and four-straight trips to the NCAA posteason.
Tennis Match Results
Rollins vs Lynn University
05/05/14 at Miami Shores, Fla.
(Buccaneer Tennis Center)
#7 Lynn University 5, #15 Rollins 1
Singles competition
1. #18 Vlad Cirla (LUM) def. Malte Christesen (RCM) 6-3, 6-1
2. #49 Daniel Riggs (LUM) def. #48 Robin Marchione (RCM) 7-5, 6-4
3. #46 Tomas Prokop (LUM) def. Jason Alabaster (RCM) 2-6, 6-1, 6-3
4. Pavel Mojha (LUM) vs. Adrian Di Felice (RCM) 6-2, 3-6, 1-0, unfinished
5. Paolo Volpicelli (LUM) vs. Ari Davis (RCM) 7-5, 1-6, 2-1, unfinished
6. Alessio Iannozzi (LUM) vs. Jacobo Herrero (RCM) 7-5, 4-1, unfinished
Doubles competition
1. #8 Daniel Riggs/Paolo Volpicelli (LUM) def. #24 Jason Alabaster/Ari Davis (RCM) 8-5
2. Vlad Cirla/Pavel Mojha (LUM) def. Cooper Maxwell/Jacobo Herrero (RCM) 8-5
3. Robin Marchione/Adrian Di Felice (RCM) def. Tomas Prokop/Alessio Iannozzi (LUM) 8-6
Match Notes:
Rollins 12-11; National ranking #7; Regional ranking #6
Lynn University 16-6; National ranking #15; Regional ranking #3
Order of finish: Doubles (1,2,3); Singles (1,3,2)
NCAA South Region 2 semifinal


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The general consensus is that the best plasmas look better than the best LCDs, but LCD has come a long way in recent years - with advances such as 100/200Hz refesh rates, RGB LED backlights and Matrix-lit backlights closing the gap on plasma.
Over the last few years there has been a lot of talk about the potential for OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) to replace LCD. Unlike traditional LCD televisions, OLED panels don't require a backlight - which means they can offer blacker blacks (and thus greater contrast) while chewing through less power. It looks like OLED will even offer better contrast and colour reproduction than plasma. This could be the final nail in the coffin for plasma after it lost the marketing war with LCD (thanks to Sony) and key players such as Pioneer abandoned the plasma market despite making perhaps the best televisions money can buy in the awesome Pioneer Kuro plasmas.
OLED might show a lot of promise, but unfortunately it has been very slow to come to market - mostly due to price and manufacturing complications. The delays have also supposedly pushed back the release on the Apple tablet.Right now Sony has the only OLED television on sale in Australia - a tiny 11 inch television with a hefty $7000 price tag. OLEDs should get slightly bigger and cheaper in 2010, with the possibility of competitors such as LG dipping their toe into the market. Even so, it doesn't look like the size and price of OLED televisions will rival LCD and plasma for a few years yet. OLED will remain in early adopter territory for a while and, if you've got $7000 to spend on a television in 2010, you'd be better off looking at a big Pioneer Kuro plasma (if you can get one) or a Sony XBR LCD.
Buying a flat screen TV? Have a question you'd like us to answer? Add your comments or questions about flat screen TV issues to the discussion below.
Also in this series, How to Pick a Great Flat Screen TV, And Not Get Sucked In By Marketing Hype:Part 16: Super-thin TVs come at a pricePart 15: How big a TV is too big?Part 14: Should I care about refresh rates?Part 13: How do I compare HDTVs in the store?Part 12: Hiding your televisionPart 11: calibrating your televisionPart 10: those pesky upscaling issues explainedPart 9: video inputs and future proofingPart 8: Logitech Harmony vs AV Link remote controlsPart 7: Should you upgrade your TV for DLNA?Part 6: TV tuners and "Digital Capable"Part 5: HDMI and component portsPart 4: LED and backlightingPart 3: Screen sizePart 2: Refresh ratesPart 1: Brightness and contrast ratios
Also see our 5 tips for buying a digital TV set top boxAnd also see the lowdown on Freeview, and whether you should careIf you're new to Digital TV, or have yet to make the leap, start by reading Prepare yourself for Digital TV
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Blockchain upgrade helps avert split in Bitcoin
Star Wars BB8. Your little round BFF
Investigator: Malware, scammers and online rip-offs
Our latest Upgrade Australia was another night of epic fun!
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Sac Metro Fire Hosting Free Workshops
Sac Metro Fire is hosting free workshops to help you protect your home from wildfire.
You'll learn how windy conditions can enable a grass fire and how to reduce the risk of fire spreading from your surroundings to your home.
The first "day-and-a-half workshop" will be held this weekend in Fair Oaks.
Additional workshops will be held in Antelope and Rancho Cordova in the coming weeks.


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Not sure what to get your mother for Christmas or Hanukkah? How about your girlfriends? Almost every woman loves to unwrap a makeup palette or a new fragrance, and some of the best gift sets (and prices!) come out around the holidays. We spoke with Annie Mercer, a member of the Sephora PRO Beauty Team, about how to find the perfect beauty item for everyone on your list this season.
LN: How do you know what color schemes to pick for someone else?
AM: Go with palettes. Those are great because they have natural shades and plenty of fun colors to experiment with. The one I love most is our Endless Color Blockbuster Palette, which has 187 products to choose from, so there's room to try new things.
LN: Are there certain shades of eyeshadow or lipstick that work well with specific complexions or hair colors?
AM: Rules are made to be broken, so never be afraid to play. In general, warm shades (orange, gold and red) work well with medium, tan or deeper skin tones; while blue and green eyeshadows, and softer pink lips, generally flatter a fairer complexion. But you can always mix it up and have fun with it! Purple is one of the most universal colors. In the fall and winter, rich royal colors are in, and plum is something you see a lot of during the cooler months.
LN: What kind of products don't require actual testing?
AM: One of the best gifts is the Sephora by OPI 18-piece nail polish set. It's a great way to experiment—even if you're a little intimidated by color, you can experiment on your nails! For more of a playful gift, we have tokidoki, which offers a great assortment of styling accessories, with colorful, playful prints. My favorite is the Lametta flat iron.
LN: What should a gifter look for when it comes to skincare?
AM: Skincare is just as important as makeup. You need great skin to get the best makeup application. In terms of moisturizers, some ingredients to look for include hyaluronic acid, shea butter and ceramides. They're in a lot of creams that are very soothing and nurturing. One of the most popular gifts we have is the Clarisonic. It's a mechanical brush that deep cleans your skin. It's one of the must-haves of the season.
LN: What are some favorite scents and perfumes you recommend?
AM: The big trend in fragrances this year is 'gourmand' fragrances, things that are sweet–like caramel, vanilla or anything dessert-like. The No. 1 thing that I would recommend as a gift, though, is the Sephora Favorites, a sampler that comes for her and for him. Finding a scent is very personal, so this set contains a variety and includes a voucher for a full-sized version of your favorite scent.
LN: What are some beauty products that most women don't think to buy for themselves, but that would make good gifts?
AM: For me, this is, hands-down, brush sets. Any beauty guru would love that. It's a necessity that many people don't have, and it makes it so much easier to achieve a look. We indulge ourselves in makeup and colors, but when we go to apply it a lot of us don't have the tools.
LN: What would make a good gift for men?
AM: Men are really becoming aware of taking care of their skin with better products. The Anthony Logistics Clean Start kit is a good starter set for any man who just does a face wash and shave. It's a simple way to get him started.


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Once again, President Obama is calling on Congress to do their jobs, today on getting the transportation bill passed and in making sure student loan rates don't go up on millions of students:
There's no excuse for inaction. Right now, we are seven days away from thousands of American workers having to walk off the job because Congress hasn't passed a transportation bill. We are eight days away from nearly seven and a half million students seeing their loan rates double because Congress hasn't acted to stop it.
Stating the obvious, Obama says:
It's not lost on any of us that this is an election year. But we've got responsibilities that are bigger than an election. We answer to the American people, and they are demanding action. Let's make it easier for students to stay in college. Let's keep construction workers rebuilding our roads and bridges. And let's tell Congress to do their job. Tell them it's time to take steps that we know will create jobs now and help sustain our economy for years to come.
... and once again asks that you contact your congressmen and tell them to get off their ass and do their job.
President Obama is still telling Congress to do their job
Current Status: Blessed (1)
Seeded on Sat Jun 23, 2012 8:11 AM
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Discussion in 'Off-topic Zone' started by theogt, Jul 20, 2013.
I just saw it recently and I just noticed it. I was pretty surprised in a comical way.
Yeah, I had no idea it was him the first time I saw it.
That's a great movie, by the way.
Yeah, I'm not sure if it flew under the radar or what, but it should have been way more popular than I think it was. Plus, Michelle Pfeiffer still looks amazing. I love the "Count of Monte Cristo" as well. Cavill was good in that and I thought he was good in "Man of Steel".
I've only seen about 1/2 of Watchmen and it seemed pretty boring and bad. I thought about getting it and watching all of it to see if it was better than what I saw of it but I've never bothered.
You'll be glad you stopped. I was watching it in the theater and walked out with five minutes left, i.e. didn't even bother with the final ending with that much original investment. That's how much I didn't care to know what happened in the end. It ranks up there with Colin Farrell's "Alexander" as just that awful.
If you went to see Watchmen expecting a super hero movie yeah, you were probably bored out of your mind.
Watchmen is a philosophical movie above all else. It's pretty friggan good too.
The movie doesn't touch the graphic novel, but I agree that it's not a super hero movie in the classic sense. I'm sure people went to see Watchmen expecting Kick-*** and were very disappointed.
I liked Watchmen a lot, the opening scene with the Dillon number is amazing. The set piece on the moon is really played out well, the comedian/Rorschach are played close to perfection. The owl/ Ozymandias let the movie down. Ozy more than anything else, his delivery is really bad, nearly as bad as his wig, everything about the role in the movie is suspect. Nice effort all round though. It nearly make up for how horrible Sucker punch was.
Seriously? Lol
They are superheroes.
I actually initially wanted to see it, when it was being advertised, because it appeared to be not a typical super hero movie.
The draw to it for me was that it was going to be something different. I just felt, from what I saw of it, that it fell very flat and was very poorly done. I loved the concept but to me it just wasn't good.
Karl Urban, Joe Manganiello, and Richard Armitage are my choices For Batman. In that order.
Not sure if it's been mentioned for certain yet, but word is they're looking for an older Batman for this upcoming movie.
Hopefully Adam West hasn't caught wind of that.
Well if it's supposed to be anything like The Dark Knight Returns where Superman and Batman fight then Batman is I believe 55 years old at the time, and it's after he's been completely retired for 10 years. So it only makes sense that it would have to be an older Batman, unless they completely ignore that little fact.
Yeah that's what I was thinking, but I seriously doubt they'll stick to that story line.
But then I also read this today, so what do I know?
"According to numerous sources, this Wayne/Batman will be in the late 30s or around the 40 mark. He will be established and rugged"
That's literally all it said. I seriously hope they have an idea already in the works rather than piecing this together as they go.
Well late 30's or around 40 then they're going to be significantly younger and well before Batman has 'retired'. So that means they're not following the storyline as they should which is very disapointing.
There are plenty of "kick butt" movies that have been done well, with a philosophical bent of mine, "The Matrix" being one of the greatest examples. Leveraging comic-book type characters very poorly while trying to present some philosophical premise doesn't serve, to me, as a valid excuse. There is a reason why they are leveraging those characters in the first place.
That was an utterly horrendous and boring movie.
But that's my personal opinion...
Yes but the Matrix was an Action movie with some philosophy. Watchmen was much more of a drama with some Philosophy. It was never meant to be a "super hero" movie per se, but a movie about people who happen to be super heroes. The two don't compare very easy. But I can certainly understand anyone calling the movie boring. It's very slow. I just think the expectations of a "Super hero" movie, create a small bias.
I actually think the Matrix was not just 'some philosophy' but the dominant factor. It was just done so well, that the action and the philosophy were seamlessly blended. The reality is Watchmen is based upon 'super-hero' like characters, so even if it was a drama, that small bias that it would be faster is justified.
The Dark Knight Returns is pretty stupid. They're just making reference to it because its the most well known comic with Batman and Superman going at each other. They've already said its not going to be an adaptation.


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Published on
Courageous Catholic takes all of the successful tools and ministry resources that CCO has developed since 1988 and has crafted it into a program for parish evangelization. This 10 week program is an expression of twenty five years of fruitful outreach and leadership formation on Canadian campuses.
Our goal is not just to share the message of Jesus, but to spread his mission. This mission is to form apostles – believers who, through the empowerment and inspiration of the Holy Spirit, send others to proclaim the message. This multiplication strategy comes from scriptural models which will be expounded in the study.
The print material, which includes both leader and participant guides, are completed and we are looking for funding to complete the video portion of the program. The videos offer direct wisdom from CCO Founders Andre and Angele Regnier, along with illustrations to further the understanding of the teaching.


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By Kate Naseef, USA TODAY
First-year students whose roommates brought a video game player to college studied 40 minutes less each day on average, according to a new study from the National Bureau of Economic Research. Those 40 minutes of lost study time translated into first-semester grades that were 0.241 points lower on the 4.0 grade scale.
The study's authors, Todd Stinebrickner, an associate professor of economics at the University of Western Ontario, and his father, Ralph Stinebrickner, a professor of mathematics and computer science at Berea College in Kentucky, were not trying to prove anything about video games. The study sought to determine how much of an effect study efforts have on grades.
The Stinebrickners say that it might seem obvious that more studying equals better grades. But research has been unable to prove it.
"Everyone knows that studying must matter to some extent, but we just don't know how much it matters relative to other things," such as college entrance exam scores, Todd Stinebrickner says. "And this study shows that it matters quite a lot."
Time-use diaries that asked how much time 210 students spent sleeping, studying, attending class and pursuing other activities were collected four times during Berea's first semester in 2000 and 2001.
The study found that students whose roommate brought a video game console did not exhibit different levels of class attendance, partying, study efficiency or paid employment — all factors that also could affect grades. But there was a substantial drop in time spent studying when one roommate brought a video game player. This means that the lower grades of students whose roommates brought video games can be attributed to the fact that these students studied less, Todd Stinebrickner says.
He added that he does not think these findings mean students should give up distractions such as video games. In fact, happiness also can be a factor in how well a student does in school.
But the findings could help counselors educate students on the importance and impact of studying.
Conversation guidelines: USA TODAY welcomes your thoughts, stories and information related to this article. Please stay on topic and be respectful of others. Keep the conversation appropriate for interested readers across the map.


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GWU in Brussels
The General Workers' Union yesterday joined 50 unions and thousands of workers from across Europe in a protest in Brussels against austerity measures being implemented by governments across the continent.
See our Comments Policy Comments are submitted under the express understanding and condition that the editor may, and is authorised to, disclose any/all of the above personal information to any person or entity requesting the information for the purposes of legal action on grounds that such person or entity is aggrieved by any comment so submitted. Please allow some time for your comment to be moderated.


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Work Done. Last week the U. S. House of Representatives:
¶ Passed, after a three-day debate, a bill transferring Prohibition enforcement from the Treasury to the Department of Justice (TIME, Jan. 27 et seq.).
¶ Passed (245-74) a bill enlarging the definition of oleomargarine to include 7,500,000 Ib. of cooking compounds under a 10¢-a-lb. tax.
¶ Passed a bill bringing interstate commerce in stolen goods under Federal jurisdiction....
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Hey man, what do you think of Speights starting over Green? I don't think Speights' minutes should be increased, just moved to coincide with the main crew. Love your thoughts on the idea.
I'm absolutely in favor of starting Speights instead of Willie, in fact I think it should've happened about a month ago.
Better offensive team on the floor, better rebounding team on the floor, and contrary to popular belief, a better shooting team on the floor with that starting lineup.
I think they're hesitant because of Speights' defensive lapses, which is a legitimate reason not to do it, but I think the positives outweigh the negatives.
I checked out your post, like the thought process, here's the link, guys. Check it out.
Re: your point on Kareem Rush being Tim...
Rush hit some big shots when he was with the Lakers, hitting a couple game winners and hitting 6-7 from three in Game 6 against the T-Wolves. So his past shows that he can perform in clutch situations. I'm not sure what happened to him since he took the Laker uniform off, but while he was in LA (I live in LA) he was a valuable contributor off the bench on contending teams.
I stand corrected, he was 20/50 from three in the playoffs that season, and you don't get much more pressure than that. For some reason I thought he showed up after Shaq left LA when the Lakers blew.
"Up Next: @ Portland, tomorrow night."
Fifth best home team in the league at 28-6. Certainly looks like we'll end up in sixth place and go down to the Magic in 5-6 games.
6th is certainly probable, but I don't think a loss tomorrow is the death knell. Neither Miami nor Detroit are playing particularly good basketball right now.
Oh, and the Lakers were 30-4 at home until last Tuesday. Stranger things have happened than a Sixers win at Portland.
What to make of this trip if they beat Portland and LA and lose to Golden State? 3-2 beating those two would be quite an accomplishment.
One of my biggest frustrations reading blogs are the negadelphias. I actually deleted a couple blogs favorite links for that reason. The sixers are not a great team (can we all agree?) but they are definitely not a horrible game (some don't agree with that). So, yes, it is possible, could I say, maybe likely??? They did beat them at home. Looking forward to tonite and Go Sixers!
Furthermore, could you imagine what their record would be if Green was not starting!
Cause then lou williams would be starting?
The sixers are a mediocre team...they win games they shouldn't they lose games they shouldn't - that's what mediocrity is.
I love how realizing that the team you root for isn't very good makes you 'negative'
And if it wasn't so catchy - like if the city were called 'Pottsberg' or 'Handleytown' - would the silly negadelphian appellation continue to exist?
Yes willie green shouldn't start - but Speights is a defensive sieve
There is a difference between saying they are mediocre, correct btw, and saying they stink. That is what I mean by the negadelphia. Not correct criticism, not a problem, but comments w/out any backup saying they stink. Just stating ALWAYS negative comments and very RARELY if ever positive comments. Do you agree with me??
Btw, your comment about Lou. He is very young and does alot of dumb stuff but we all make mistakes and will get better (just like Sac will get better). Is Lou worse than Willie Green in your opinion?
Is Lou worse than Willie Green in your opinion?
That's an interesting debate.
Well No - I don't think Lou is worse than willie green - but i'm not sure he's better either. WIllie doesn't pass much - Lou makes stupid passes, Lou likes to stand at the top of the key and run down the clock and then drive ala Iverson whereas Willie likes to take stupid shots early in the shot clock. One draws fouls (usually) one doesn't.
It's six one half dozen of the other - if the argument is that the sixers would have many more wins starting Lou over Willie - I'd have to say probably not cause that also makes a weak bench even weaker.
now if the argument is start speights over willie - that's an entirely different kettle of fish
I agree with you. An argument could be given,as it is always stated by our announcers, playing gets the players better when they are young. So, taking that position, could possibly playing Lou more help him develop faster? And, would Willie coming off the bench produce the same points as Lou does off the bench?
I do think there is alot of benifits to Lou getting to the line (AS LONG AS THE SIXERS MAKE THEIR SHOTS, another issue) and getting the other team starters in foul trouble. I may be on to something!
Well the thing is - do the sixers see Lou as a 2 guard or a 'scoring point guard' (which messes up his game something fierce) - if they see him as the scoring point guard they wouldn't consider starting him with Andre Miller in the back court.
Now - I think the problem with Lou is that the sixers won't accept what he is - he's not a point guard - he doesn't have the instincts - he's a short 2 guard...and they shouldn't try and make him something he's not.
The foul trouble theory isn't one I've thought of before - obviously lou draws more fouls than Willie, but would he draw as many fouls against starters than bench players?
Dean, just throwing my hat in the ring here - but I think the reason we don't see Lou starting really boils down to the defensive end. He is too short to guard most points or 2 guards in the league or maybe just not good enough at on-the-ball D altogether. We don't have a lot of options for a starter there so Willie tends to be the best option defensively by default. I don't think that points or free throws attempted even factor in to the staff's thinking here.
Negadelphian? Heh. Cute. At least you don't have to be a Golden State fan.
Lou plays a minute more than Green, and is completely unafraid to shoot, but probably to the team's detriment. The man simply can't shoot, and he refuses to stop.


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*Benanav, Michael. (2006). Men of Salt: Crossing the Sahara on the Caravan of White Gold. New York: Globe Pequot/Lyons. 256 pp. ISBN 1-59228-772-7 (Hardcover); $23.95
Michael Benanav is a Jewish, American journalist. Perhaps he does not have a death wish, but he does walk on the wild side. Reading that the camel caravans to the salt mines near Timbuktu are in danger of becoming extinct due to the truck transport of salt, Benanav decides to experience a camel journey before they become extinct. As much a mental journey as a grueling physical one, Benanav realizes that this harsh lifestyle has a richer, more complex history than the largely ignorant press has portrayed. Before he was allowed to participate in a long journey through one of the harshest deserts in the world, Benanav had to sign a waiver that if he were responsible for slowing down the caravan (and, thus, risking the lives of the camels and people), the caravan had the right to leave him to rot and die alone in the desert! Benanav does not leave us with easy answers concerning the fate of the caravans or the very real people he comes to respect. In many ways, Men of Salt leaves readers with more questions than answers. The questions, however, are so good that readers will seek more information and forever hold in hearts a much fuller, more human picture of both the people and the camels in this part of our world. Filled with pictures, this book is highly recommended for both middle school and high school libraries despite the fact that is an adult book. One of my favorites this or any year!


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Twitter offers users the chance to write and "publish" without any outside editing or comments. That is, authors of tweets have creative freedom and edit themselves. In order for the concept of peer review to be effective on this site means that students would have to tweet writing done for the class and other students would then tweet comments as a way to talk back to their peers.
Kenneth A. Bruffee in "Collaborative Learning: Some Practical Models" claims that students work together outside of the classroom in a variety of ways, and therefore should also be encouraged to work together inside of the classroom. Bruffee suggests that students develop a new kind of awareness when they both listen (read) and comment on others' writing and says, "People themselves learn, when they teach others" (641).
Because peer review has been around for awhile, it is not an innovative suggestion. But Lee-Ann Kastman Breuch, author of Virtual Peer Review, claims the scholarship on computer-involved peer review is still developing. Two decades after Bruffee, Kastman Breuch suggests that peer review has changed from oral communication to virtual communication: "I define virtual peer review as the activity of using computer technology to exchange and respond to one another's writing for the purpose of improving writing" (10). She continues on, saying that virtual peer review must be situated so that teaching strategies drive the use of technology.
Taking both theories into account, it should be possible to move peer review to an online space that encourages brief, quick interaction. By doing this, students should be able to learn from each other's writing and advice. And by giving advice, students will become aware of potential issues their own writing might have. My study attempts to test this assumption.
I advised to tweet their thesis statements for the essay they were currently working on. I then asked students to tweet responses to others' thesis statements via tweeting, focusing on clarity, strength of the stance, and potential resistance or gaps in the implied argument. I tweeted responses as well.
The participants were the 22 undergraduate students enrolled in English 151: Writing & Rhetoric course. The majority of the class was comprised of first-year students; there were two sophomore students and one junior-level student.
The required material for this activity was a computer and a thesis statement for the current essay. Although in a computer classroom, students often brought in their personal laptops. On particular days, only a few students would access Twitter via a school computer. Students wrote their thesis statements outside of class.
Analysis and Conclusions
I did not find Twitter to be as effective for peer response as I had hoped for two reasons:
- Character limit: Because comments must be shorter and more succinct, some students had difficulties fitting their thesis statements into one tweet, as well as their responses and explanations to other students. Most students recognized whether or not a thesis was strong or weak, but most could not briefly articulate why.
- Chaos: The Twitter feed is similar to 23 people IM-ing at the same time. It is hard to read the thoughts of 23 people at the same time, especially when they are addressing each other.
One suggestion for improving the thesis workshop on Twitter includes forming smaller groups of students—three or four—who would work together outside of class. If students set a specific time to peer review, it could alleviate some of the chaos of an entire class tweeting at once.
I concluded that Twitter is less functional for peer review than are other online spaces such as Facebook or blogs. However, Twitter has other advantages in the classroom, such as classroom communication with the teacher.


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In most battles, the rounds focus on battlers tearing each other down or hyping their own mastery of battle skills.
The high street purchases will reinforce perception of Kate's mastery of the common touch.
Here, the founder of the law and literature movement shows his mastery in bringing literature to philosophical bloom.
PTA, first and foremost, exhibits a mastery of form and composition.
His mastery sprung, most of all, from his extraordinary ear.
Henceforth, I presume your great country will dispute with us for the mastery of the air.
I knew that no help from without would accomplish this mastery.
The spirit-key to an understanding of God's Word is surrender of will and life to His mastery.
He could only hope to get the mastery of him if he caught him asleep and off his guard.
By the use of his hand, he gains dominion and mastery over all that lives upon the earth, in the air, or in the depths of the sea.
early 13c., mesterie, "condition of being a master," also "superiority, victory;" from Old French maistrie, from maistre "master" (see master (n.)). Meaning "intellectual command" (of a topic, etc.) is from 1660s.


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A robot named Phobetor roams the Princeton University campus attempting to deliver a holiday fruitcake. Hijinks ensue. Inevitably, a tiger figures into the plot. The Phobetor robot is the creation of Princeton Autonomous Vehicle Engineering (PAVE).
The Princeton Autonomous Vehicle Engineering team brings home some major awards from the 16th Annual Intelligent Ground Vehicle Competition. The team give a blow-by-blow account of the performance of their autonomous robot in the competition.
The Princeton Autonomous Vehicle Engineering team has advanced to the next stage in the Pentagon's "urban challenge" competition, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency announced May 11.
It's a traffic-weary commuter's dream come true: A car that drives by itself. Since 2004, a group of Princeton University students has been working on developing such self-driving, "autonomous" vehicles, competing in contests run by the Pentagon.


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Keith Urban Gives a Fan the Keys to Her New Home
In one of his many number one hits, Keith Urban sang about having a 'Better Life.'
Last Friday, that's exactly what he helped give one lucky fan and her family.
Kellie Pickler to Guest Star on '90210′ Season Premiere
She's a recording artist now, but Kellie Pickler kicked off her singing career on television, earning a sixth-place finish during the fifth season of 'American Idol.'
Now, she's returning to her roots — so to speak — with a guest appearance on '90210.'
How Did Eric Church's 'Chief' Album Land a #1 Debut?
With his first two albums, 2006′s 'Sinners Like Me' and 2009′s 'Carolina,' Eric Church enjoyed steadily, albeit modestly, increasing success — so you can imagine that a few industry eyebrows were raised when his latest release, 'Chief,' debuted at number one.
To celebrate Church's first chart-topper, Billboard devoted a recent feature to analyzing his sales spike — and interviewing industry insiders who shared their theories about how it happened.
LeAnn Rimes' Offers Surprising Twist on Covers Album 'Lady and Gentleman'
By the time she was 14, LeAnn Rimes had already recorded four albums — and the fourth, 1996′s 'Blue,' sold more than six million copies in the United States alone.
Rimes has come a long way since those early days — she's now a 28-year-old married woman with 15 studio albums under her belt. And for her latest studio set, 'Lady and Gentlemen,' she took a brand new approach.
Taylor Swift Serenades the 'Chaperone Dads' Dragged to Her Shows [VIDEO]
Of all the duties dads pull when their daughters are young, "concert chaperone" has to be one of the most thankless tasks on the list.
But cheer up, Pops: Your ears might be ringing and your wallet might be light, but Taylor Swift sees you in the crowd, and she appreciates what you do.
Lauren Alaina's 'Like My Mother Does' Video to Premiere on Monday
She might be on the road with this year's American Idols Live Tour, but Lauren Alaina isn't too busy to make plans for her upcoming debut album.
In fact, promotion for Alaina's first CD will begin in earnest next week, when the video for her latest single, 'Like My Mother Does,' debuts on CMT.
Toby Keith Forced to Cancel Concert After Coming Down with Laryngitis
What's just about the worst thing that can happen to a singer who's getting ready to promote his new album?
If you answered "laryngitis," you know what's been plaguing Toby Keith — and what forced him to cancel his Sunday appearance at Canada's Big Valley Jamboree.
Billy Dean Promotes Local Farming with New Album, 'The Seed'
It's been awhile since Billy Dean released some new music — and even longer since he tasted the kind of chart success he enjoyed with his first few albums in the early '90s — but he's making plans to change all that.
Dean has partnered with the Naturipe Farms collective for a series of new recordings, starting with a digital EP that's currently available on iTunes). He also has plans for a full album in the fall. It might sound like an unusual partnership, but country music and farming is a pretty natural fit — and Dean stands squarely behind the company's mission to help promote the sale of locally grown produce.
Lady Antebellum Shows Off Cover Art and Unveils Track Listing for New Album, 'Own the Night'
You'll have to wait until September 18 to buy the new Lady Antebellum album, but you can see it — and take a look at the song titles — right now.
The band has released the artwork and track listing for its upcoming third album, 'Own the Night,' which will contain a dozen songs, including the lead single (and Top 10 hit), 'Just a Kiss.'
Michael Bublé to Duet with Shania Twain on Holiday Album
Eight years after releasing his 'Let It Snow' holiday EP, Michael Bublé is back with more Christmas music — and this time, he's got company.
During a recent interview with CTV, Bublé revealed that his upcoming holiday album will include a duet on "White Christmas" with none other than Shania Twain. Pressed for details about their version of the traditional yuletide ballad, Bublé described it as "bouncy."
John Michael Montgomery Plans Album, Book Projects with His Brother, Eddie
He has seven number one country singles and a pair of quadruple-platinum albums to his credit, but for John Michael Montgomery, his next album might be his most meaningful.
Montgomery is planning a musical collaboration — with a book to follow — with his big brother and fellow country singer Eddie Montgomery, best known as one half of the bestselling duo Montgomery Gentry.
Billy Ray Cyrus Reveals Regret for Controversial GQ Interview [VIDEO]
Remember that interview Billy Ray Cyrus did with GQ awhile back — the one where he essentially accused Disney, and the fame the studio brought his daughter Miley, of destroying his family?
Well, Billy remembers it too. And now he wishes he could take it all back.


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Carol Jackson
|Carol Jackson
|EastEnders character
|Portrayed by
|Lindsey Coulson
|1993–1997, 1999, 2010–2015
|First appearance
|Episode 917
16 November 1993
|Last appearance
|Episode 5148
2 October 2015
|Created by
|Tony McHale
|Introduced by
|EastEnders: Last Tango in Walford (2010)
|Former; regular
Carol Ann Jackson is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by Lindsey Coulson. The character was introduced in 1993 as the mother of the Jackson family. Coulson decided to quit the role in 1997, but she returned temporarily in 1999 within a storyline that marked Carol's daughter Bianca's (Patsy Palmer) exit. On 25 October 2009 it was confirmed that she would return along with other members of the Jackson family, Sonia (Natalie Cassidy), Robbie (Dean Gaffney) and Billie (Devon Anderson), on 15 February 2010, although her first appearance in 2010 is in EastEnders: Last Tango in Walford, an episode released exclusively to DVD on 8 February 2010. Coulson chose to leave the show for a third time in June 2015, with her exit aired on 2 October 2015.
Carol is depicted as a tough, working-class grafter, fiercely defensive of her four children. Her storylines include relationships with several men including David Wicks (Michael French), Alan Jackson (Howard Antony), Dan Sullivan (Craig Fairbrass), Connor Stanley (Arinze Kene), Eddie Moon (David Essex) and Masood Ahmed (Nitin Ganatra), and her breast cancer diagnosis in January 2014.
Carol arrives in Albert Square in 1993, working alongside Pauline Fowler (Wendy Richard) as Dot Cotton's (June Brown) replacement in the launderette. She soon moves to the Square with her family, partner Alan Jackson (Howard Antony) and his grandmother Blossom Jackson (Mona Hammond), and her four children, Bianca (Patsy Palmer), Robbie (Dean Gaffney), Sonia (Natalie Cassidy) and Billie (Devon Anderson), all of whom have different fathers but have taken Alan's surname despite Carol and Alan not being married.
Carol is soon forced to tell her childhood sweetheart, David Wicks (Michael French), that he is Bianca's father when it looks like they are about to start a relationship. David agrees to keep this a secret from Bianca, but is forced to tell her when she tries to seduce him. Carol and Alan attend the wedding of Carol's sister April Branning (Debbie Arnold), where their father Jim Branning (John Bardon) and brother Derek Branning (Terence Beesley) show their disapproval of Carol and Alan's interracial relationship. After April is jilted by her fiancé, Alan decides he wants to marry Carol there and then. However, Alan grows jealous of Carol's renewed friendship with David and embarks on an affair with singer Frankie Pierre (Syan Blake), moving out of the Jacksons' house, leaving Carol to reignite a romance with David. Both affairs are short lived and Carol and Alan soon reunite.
Billie is the only witness to an armed robbery and is kidnapped to prevent him from testifying in court. He is eventually returned safely, but Carol and the rest of her family (bar Bianca) are placed in a witness protection programme and move away from Walford for their safety.
In her time away, Carol separates from Alan due to his mental breakdown and starts a relationship with Dan Sullivan (Craig Fairbrass). Carol, Robbie and Sonia return to Walford with Dan, and it is revealed that Dan was in a relationship with Bianca when she was 15 and he was married. Bianca keeps this a secret from Carol, but they begin an affair during a family holiday. The affair only ends when Carol becomes pregnant with Dan's baby, however, Carol finds an old photo of Bianca and Dan and quizzes him about it. He tells only part of the truth and says that they had a relationship long before he ever met Carol. Carol believes this but is angry at Bianca for not telling her. Carol confronts Bianca who reveals the affair, not knowing what Dan had said. Carol throws Dan out, tells Bianca's husband Ricky Butcher (Sid Owen) about the affair and disowns her daughter. She aborts Dan's child and leaves Albert Square in 1999 and reconciles with Alan. Off-screen, in the years following, Carol moves to Balham with Billie. She tends to her father in 2007 following his stroke, but remains estranged from Bianca and her children.
Carol turns up uninvited to Bianca and Ricky's second wedding to stop her son Billie attending. Despite initial animosity, Carol and Bianca make amends for the past and Carol moves back to Walford, having lost her job in Balham as a school secretary. Billie and Carol regularly clash regarding Carol's controlling parenting and Billie's connection with a gang. When a gang member attempts to shoot Billie, Carol's brother Jack (Scott Maslen) is accidentally shot instead. Blaming himself, Billie joins the army and despite initial opposition, Carol gives her blessing.
Billie is given leave on his birthday, so Carol arranges a party for him and his friends. Copious amounts of alcohol are consumed by Billie and the next day he is found dead on the settee. Distraught, Carol pushes away her family, suggesting they are responsible for Billie's death, until her brother Max (Jake Wood) tells her Billie only joined the army to get away from her. When Carol sees a video on Billie's laptop in which he says she is a control freak and wants her to die, she is devastated. She bans her family from attending Billie's funeral, and it is only she, Alan and Blossom who attend. In her grief, Carol attempts to kiss Alan, but he rejects her as he is now married with a young son. Struck by sadness, Carol plans to commit suicide by overdose, but is interrupted by Connor Stanley (Arinze Kene), one of Billie's friends and a gang member; they comfort each other and end up having sex.[1] Carol disapproves of Connor's criminality and so their relationship ends and reignites several times. On one break, Connor begins dating Bianca's stepdaughter, Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty). Connor sleeps with Carol and Whitney simultaneously, until Bianca finds out and attacks Connor with a metal pole. Bianca is imprisoned and Connor's mother Kendra (Sharon D. Clarke) warns Carol to leave Connor alone.
In 2011, Carol meets a love-interest, Eddie Moon (David Essex), but their relationship ends when Carol discovers Eddie has been seeing Vanessa Gold (Zöe Lucker). Old feelings resurface between Carol and David when he returns to Walford in 2012 after years away, to visit his dying mother Pat (Pam St. Clement). Derek (now Jamie Foreman) still loathes David because of the rivalry in their youth over David getting Carol pregnant; he forbids Carol and David's reunion. David's feud with Derek escalates to violence. After convincing Carol to leave Walford with him, David changes his mind when he sees how much their grandchildren need her; he devastates Carol by leaving without her.
Upon being released from prison, Bianca struggles to support her family and gets into debt. In desperation, she steals money from a market trader; the police are called and Bianca is sent back to prison, in Suffolk, for six months. Wanting to be near Bianca, Carol temporarily moves to Suffolk with her grandchildren. She returns to prepare for Bianca's return and discovers Derek is using the house for criminal activities. She orders him to get rid of his merchandise, but he just stocks it in the garage. Derek dies of a heart attack.
Carol and Masood Ahmed (Nitin Ganatra) bond and arrange a date, but it is not a success, and Carol starts a relationship with Bianca's probation officer, Steve Lowe (Michael Simkins). Bianca objects and Masood breaks up the relationship on Carol's behalf. Carol and Masood then arrange another date and eventually their relationship becomes more serious. David returns to Walford penniless, so Carol allows him to stay at her house. David attempts to charm Carol again, and tries to interfere in her romance with Masood. This does not work initially and Carol moves in with Masood, but soon moves out. Carol finds a lump in her breast and is diagnosed with breast cancer. She then resumes her relationship with David. After ending her relationship with Masood and a heated argument between David and Masood, Carol visits Sonia and her daughter Rebecca (Jasmine Armfield) to tell her about the cancer. Carol worries about being tested for the BRCA2 gene, rebuffing David's advances and rejecting his marriage proposal, though this leads to David inadvertently revealing to her friends and neighbours that she has cancer. David kisses Nikki Spraggan (Rachel Wilde) but accepts Carol's later proposal of marriage and moves back in with her.
Carol tests positive for the gene, and her daughters are also tested. Sonia has inherited the gene, causing tension between her and Bianca and Carol, who is undergoing intensive chemotherapy, is forced to step in, but she collapses. Carol is told she has an infection because of her weak immune system, but is released and recovers ahead of her upcoming wedding. On the day of the wedding, David disappears to find her "something blue", and Carol believes he is scared by the idea of commitment and jilted her. However, he has suffered a heart attack. Distraught, Carol shares a heart to heart with her long-time employer Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt) and realises that she and David must be honest with each other. Carol visits David in hospital but they argue and she decides that they cannot continue their relationship. After sharing one last dance to "Misty Blue" — the "something blue" David had promised — he moves out of the home and leaves Walford.
When Carol is due to undergo her mastectomy, Bianca persuades her to only have a single mastectomy. Bianca reveals that the family are in debt, so Carol goes back to work and sells some of her and her family's possessions. Carol confides in her colleague Tina Carter (Luisa Bradshaw-White) about her money problems, and Tina proposes that they sell marijuana. Carol is appalled but later accepts the proposal because of the debt. Carol and Bianca then attend Sonia's health class, where many of the locals try to persuade Carol to have a double mastectomy. This infuriates Carol, but after talking to Pam Coker (Lin Blakley), she decides to have a double mastectomy, much to Sonia's delight, and calls off her marijuana deal with Tina.
While Carol is preparing for her operation, Bianca gets in trouble with social services when Liam accidentally gives Tiffany hash brownies to take to school for the last day of term. When Liam confesses that he got them from the cafe, Carol realises that the brownies were Tina's and she is dealing drugs despite saying that she was calling the deal with her aunt off. Carol furiously threatens to expose Tina's deals to help Bianca get social services off her back, exposing Tina's actions to her devastated girlfriend, Fiona "Tosh" Mackintosh (Rebecca Scroggs). Carol asks the grandson of her stepmother Dot Branning (June Brown), Charlie Cotton (Declan Bennett), to talk to Liam about what to say with the police, and after he leaves she answers his discarded phone and discovers his supposedly dead father, Dot's estranged son Nick Cotton (John Altman), on the other end of the line. Carol confronts Charlie about deceiving Dot, and despite his pleas for her to keep his actions quiet to salvage his relationship with his grandmother, Carol tells him she will tell Dot after her operation. She then has her double mastectomy, after receiving advice from the hospital's vicar. To try to keep her quiet, Charlie pays off Bianca's debt, and the rest of the Butchers hail him as the family's hero. However, Carol is initially determined that he still needs to tell the truth, until she sees how happy Dot is by his side, and agrees to keep quiet. She orders Charlie to take a DNA test to confirm he is Dot's grandson, which proves positive. She then discovers she no longer has cancer, but is upset that Bianca is planning to move away with her family.
Carol later begins behaving erratically for no apparent reason. During a friendly outing with Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick), she drunkenly kisses him and then abruptly walks off. When she catches Liam having sex with Cindy Williams (Mimi Keene), she allows it despite Sonia's protests. Wanting to understand Carol better, Sonia has a counselor visit her. Carol then admits to the counselor, who also had a double mastectomy, that she is scared of her cancer possibly coming back. Later, Carol receives a phone call from Jim's home informing her of Jim's death. Despite wanting to tell Dot, she ends up putting off her visit and concentrating on organizing Jim's clothes and then her work in the cafe. It soon becomes apparent that she is unable to process her grief properly, due to some resentment to Jim, when she lashes out at Max, and Whitney, Liam and Sonia's daughter Rebecca catch her doing so. Carol later befriends Buster Briggs (Karl Howman), but when Buster's girlfriend, Shirley Carter (Linda Henry), sees them together, she punches Carol. When Carol is informed of the option for breast reconstruction, she rejects her family and has drinks with Buster at his and Shirley's home. When she admits that she wishes she had remained rebellious and adventurous after having her children, Buster encourages her to make her own free choices and she returns home later as a more rebellious woman, alienating her family. Later in the day, Shirley finds a bra behind her settee, and confronts Carol, who lies that she had sex with Buster. She later admits it was a lie to Shirley, who helps her come to terms with her mastectomy scars to regain her confidence. Carol is upset when Max is charged with the murder of Lucy Beale (Hetti Bywater) and starts drinking when unable to raise legal fees. She is angered by gossip and loses faith in Max's innocence when Lucy's blood is found on his shoes, particularly when he doesn't defend Abi. She soon realises the extent of Max's innocence when many of his insecurities are brought to light during the trial. After coming home the same day from court, she is surprised to find Robbie in her kitchen. Robbie tries to persuade Carol to go and live in Milton Keynes with him and Bianca, but Carol refuses and decides to go on the run with Max, who has escaped from court after being found guilty, however, Max is arrested before they can. Recent events culminate in Carol realising that she will always be relied upon by her family; she decides to take her father's motorbike and ride away from Walford, not knowing where she will end up, embracing her newfound freedom. Before she leaves, she buys a dog for Robbie and his son Sami Jackson (Shiven Shankar), named Wellard II (Panther).
1994 was a historic year for EastEnders, as in April, a third weekly episode was introduced.[2] Due to the programme's increased frequency, a number of new characters were introduced to the regular cast in the latter part of 1993 and early 1994.[2] Among them were the Jackson family: mother Carol (Lindsey Coulson), her four children, Bianca (Patsy Palmer), Robbie (Dean Gaffney), Sonia (Natalie Cassidy), and Billie (Devon Anderson), as well as Carol's partner Alan Jackson (Howard Antony). Though Carol and Alan were not initially married in the serial, and though Alan was only the biological father of Billie, the whole family took on Alan's surname. The family was created by writer Tony McHale.[3] None of the actors cast as the Jackson family were matched for appearance or screen compatibility. Cassidy has commented, "it was all decided without doing that. I don't think it particularly mattered that none of us Jackson kids looked like each other because all our characters had different dads!"[3] Carol was Coulson's first major television role.[3]
Various members of the family began to appear sporadically from November 1993 onwards, but in episodes that aired early in 1994, the Jacksons moved from Walford Towers, a block of flats, to the soap's focal setting of Albert Square. Their slow introduction was a deliberate attempt by the programme makers to introduce the whole family over a long period.[2] The Jacksons have been described by EastEnders scriptwriter Colin Brake as a "classic problem family".[2]
In an interview from 1995 that was published by Larry Jaffee in 2009, Coulson described Carol as "fiery, loud and determined".[3] However, Coulson added that she played Carol as possibly more approachable as time progressed, adding, "It's difficult to find a level when you step into a soap, it's so fast-moving. You're not really sure who you are or what you're doing. I think as the actor relaxes, maybe the character softens a little. Everybody's trying to find their level."[3] Author Kate Lock has suggested that "Carol always looked careworn and sounded snappish, but then, as pointed out repeatedly, she's had to make a lot of sacrifices in her life, raising four kids single-handedly, missing out on any chance of a career".[4] Carol is depicted as a grafter who is fiercely protective of her problematic children. Discussing Carol's role as a mother, Coulson has said, "I think a lot of mothers find their adolescent children hard work, and with four children well, what more can I say? She's out working, trying to get money. She's always tired - it's hard being a mum."[3] Coulson argued with the production team over Carol's attire. She felt that Carol should not have a bad dress sense just because she is poor.[5]
|"[Carol's] image was that of a single mother [...] keeping her family together and having a life of her own was Carol's role in life. She followed in the tradition of Elsie Tanner, but because she was a woman from the 1990s, her children were from a number of fathers and her strength as a mother was that she had kept her children together. Life was hard for Carol, and while she experienced a varied life she always struggled to maintain her independence and sexuality. One always felt that Carol Jackson was a smouldering sexual woman for whom the experience of motherhood and the time spent looking after her children had necessitated her leaving her sexuality on hold, ready to be reignited at some time in the future."[6]
|— Author Dorothy Hobson's profile of Carol. (2003)
David Wicks[edit]
In the character's backstory, Carol became pregnant with Bianca and her boyfriend David Wicks (Michael French) moved away. A sixteen-year-old Carol faced life as a single mother. His mother, Pat Butcher (Pam St. Clement) never forgave David for sleeping with Carol.[7] The feud between the Jackson and Butcher families became a prominent storyline in December 1994. Bianca's boyfriend was Pat's step-son Ricky Butcher (Sid Owen) and those who knew about Bianca's paternity were desperate to keep the duo apart.[8] Both Carol and Pat invite Ricky around for Christmas dinner. But he planned to bring the two warring clans together. Owen told Victoria Ross from Inside Soap that Ricky convinces Carol to call a truce and invite Pat and David over for Christmas dinner. She agrees for Bianca's sake and they all gather in Carol's home. However, Owen warned that the feud may never end, "I don't think it's possible for Pat and Carol to become friends very easily because too much has been said on both sides."[8] St. Clement claimed that Pat is willing to use violence; she added that Pat "will do anything to protect her family. It just takes someone like Carol Jackson to bring it out."[9]
Carol's family secret is revealed in 1994. When they first meet, David develops an attraction to Bianca. An Inside Soap writer stated that Carol "flipped" at the sight of Bianca flirting with David. Carol is forced to inform him that he is her father. He vows to keep the secret hidden from Bianca.[10] But in March 1995, the show played Bianca making a drunken attempt to seduce David and the truth has to be revealed.[11]
Over Christmas 1995, Carol rejects David's advances and he remains solitary over the festive period. David thinks that Carol still has feelings for him.[12] David enjoys meddling in other character's lives and his favourite target is Alan. As an Inside Soap reporter noted, David would have no qualms about destroying what he cannot have. French told the reporter that "I think it'd be nice if David ended up with Carol. They may be at it hammer and tongs most of the time but the old spark's still there."[12]
Alan Jackson[edit]
Carol is married to Alan Jackson (Howard Antony), together they share a son, Billie (Devon Anderson). Alan meets soul-singer Frankie Pierre (Syan Blake) but she has a "scheming" persona.[13] The storyline develops into infidelity when Alan kisses Frankie. Having been with Carol for ten years, Alan feels trapped and enticed into having fun. He then leaves for Spain abandoning Carol and the children. Antony told Simon Timblick from Inside Soap that Alan is trying to discover more about himself and subsequently acts selfish towards Carol.[13] The actor explained that "he's been in this relationship with Carol all these years, and he hasn't had the chance to go out and have a wild time like most people have." When Alan reflects on his behavior he wants Carol back for the sake of the children. But Frankie has trapped him in a dilemma.[13] Author Lock has suggested that it was Carol's "constant bitching" at Alan that caused the affair.[4]
Reintroduction (2010)[edit]
Having originally appeared between 1993 and 1997 and again in 1999 and despite Coulson ruling out a return to the programme in 2008,[14] it was announced on 25 October 2009 that Carol would return to the show in 2010 along with her children Robbie, Sonia and Billie. Coulson is quoted as saying, "I'm thrilled to be returning to EastEnders after all these years. I'm also excited and intrigued to find out what Carol and her family have been up to since we last saw her and where she will be going next."[15] A source told entertainment website Digital Spy: "Everything's being kept hush-hush about the Jacksons' return at the moment, but there are certainly a load of questions to be answered. Will the frosty relationship between Carol and Bianca thaw? Are Sonia and Martin still together? And how will Robbie react when he learns of his beloved Wellard's death? Everyone's so pleased to have them back."[15] The family will return for Bianca's second wedding to Ricky Butcher (Sid Owen) as part of the show's 25th anniversary. Executive producer Diederick Santer explained that he wanted great stories to get people talking, saying "The wedding is the perfect opportunity for us to bring back the much-loved Jackson characters – Carol, Sonia, Robbie and Billie."[16]
Grief and reinvention[edit]
In September 2010 it was revealed that Billie would be killed from alcohol poisoning, leaving Carol devastated.[17] Although Coulson felt Anderson's departure was premature, she praised the storyline's "huge shock value".[18] Coulson felt heartbroken when she was filming Billie's death scenes, of this she stated during an interview with Inside Soap: "When we had to play the scene where Carol sees Billie lying dead in the living room, it was really sad - not just because a mum had lost her son in tragic circumstances, but also because I felt almost as though I was losing Devon too."[18]
Coulson revealed that she was exhausted from playing Carol's grief for a period of six weeks.[19] She added she was pleased because upon her return she had hope for a demanding storyline.[19] Asked how it felt to portray the storyline Coulson stated: "Incredibly satisfying, For them to give me that lovely storyline is a compliment, and it was wonderful."[19] The storyline progresses into Carol realising Bianca is her biggest support, of this Coulson claims: "I think there's a bit of Bianca going, 'What about me? I'm still here.' Carol's projected so much of her love onto Billie, because nobody else needed her."[19] After the episode aired it received a great deal of praise from fans on Digital Spy.[20]
Carol's grief makes her lash out at those nearest to her and she tries to end her own life by taking an overdose, but later changes her mind.[21] Speaking of the development in the storyline, Coulson commented: "It's a journey Carol goes on and she makes some terrible decisions."[22] Coulson later revealed she wanted Carol to have more friends.[22] Carol is then paired with Glenda Mitchell (Glynis Barber) as they strike an "unlikely friendship" and move in together, after she feels unable to live at the home her son died in.[23] Coulson felt that Carol was reinventing herself, she also stated: "It's a strange pairing, but it'll be interesting to see if they can find common ground."[23] Barber also admitted she is a fan of the pairing, expressed her desire for Glenda to lead Carol astray and stated: "The characters are very different but actually have a lot in common."[24] Coulson has also admitted she felt it important viewers could see how strong Carol can be, she added: "I'd like to show viewers that Carol is strong enough to transcend all of this, because people have to - but it won't just go away."[23]
Carol then starts sleeping with Billie's old friend Connor Stanley (Arinze Kene). Discussing the storyline, Coulson stated: "For her, though, this is a brief moment where she doesn't have to think about Billie's death. It's not even lovely sex - it happens in a fit of loss and grief."[25] Coulson feels at this point Carol crosses a major boundary because he was Billie's friend.[25]
Masood Ahmed[edit]
In 2013, Carol starts a relationship with Masood Ahmed (Nitin Ganatra) which is soon affected by the return of her ex-boyfriend David. Coulson told Jon Peake from TV Choice that Carol had accepted that David had left her and moved on. David's return is unexpected and Coulson stated that he has never been good for her character. She added "her heart is probably with David, he was her first love, but as a grown-up woman she should be with Masood - someone who treats her well."[26] David reveals that he missed Carol and it is clear she still cares about him. Coulson believed that Carol hates her feelings and does not want "this complication in her life".[27] Ganatra told Peake that David's manipulative and clever personality develops a rivalry for Carol's attention. He explained that Carol's theme of falling in love with David upsets Masood. He wants reassurance but Carol fails to notice Masood's problem with David and even nurses him following an assault. Ganatra concluded that "he's at the stage where he loves Carol, and then David comes back and ruins everything [...] but she's worth fighting for."[28] Coulson believed that Carol and Masood could have a successful relationship. David finds it more difficult to "play her" because knows his tricks. She noted that Carol changed and is no longer a victim.[29] David uses his grandchildren Morgan and Tiffany to guilt Carol into letting him stay. Ganatra told Allison Jones that David then causes more trouble - but Carol and Masood are in love, find each other attractive and he will fight David for Carol.[30]
Breast cancer[edit]
On 24 November 2013, it was announced that EastEnders would feature breast cancer in December, with Carol finding a lump in her breast. Carol's daughter Sonia will return as the storyline begins. Coulson said, "This is a very important storyline as breast cancer is something that affects so many people. Through Carol's story I hope we can raise awareness of the impact of breast cancer on the people that have it and their families."[31] Executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins said: "EastEnders has a long tradition of dealing with social issues and breast cancer is one that the majority of people have been affected by in some way. And this is not just a story about breast cancer. This is a story about women, about mothers and daughters, and ultimately about family. And with Lindsey Coulson, Michael French, Patsy Palmer and Natalie Cassidy giving powerhouse performances at its centre, this is a storyline that will inform, move, and shake up the audience as it shakes up the Jackson family."[31] Producers worked with charities such as Macmillan Cancer Support, whose Head of Health and Social Care, Jacqui Graves, congratulated the show "for helping to raise awareness of the condition."[31]
Departure (2015)[edit]
On 21 June 2015, it was announced that Coulson had decided to leave, speaking of her departure she said: "I've had a fantastic time playing the formidable Carol Jackson and although I'll miss everything about EastEnders, I feel the time is right for me to move on".[32] Carol's exit aired on 2 October 2015, with Julia's Theme being played as she rides on Jim's motorbike down the market. The episode was watched by 5.6 million viewers on the night of its broadcast.[33]
In March 1995, a reporter from Inside Soap said "The Square's toughest mum, and David's ex-girlfriend Carol Jackson, has got a few secrets of her own, considering she's had four children by four different men." They predicted that it would not be long before Carol's past caught up with her.[34] In July 2015, Gary Gillatt of Inside Soap praised Coulson's acting as Carol came to terms with her mental and physical scars following her mastectomy, "Wasn't Lindsey Coulson amazing in EastEnders this week? The script was uncompromising, the acting first rate. Bravo EastEnders!"[35]
Since Carol's exit in 1999, writer Dorothy Hobson used Carol's continued absence on-screen despite numerous upsets in her children's lives as indicative of lack of realism in soaps. She believed Carol's absence during Sonia's motherhood detracted from the storyline. She added "you knew she might be judgemental towards Sonia, but she would have sorted out her problems and supported her as a mother."[6]
Coulson was nominated for "Best Supporting Actress" at the 1997 Inside Soap Awards.[36] She was nominated in the Best Serial Drama Performance category at the 16th National Television Awards in 2011 for her portrayal of Carol.[37] She was also nominated for 'Best Actress' and 'Best Dramatic Performance' at the 2011 British Soap Awards,[38][39] and for 'Best Actress' at the 2011 Inside Soap Awards.[40] In March 2011, EastEnders won in the Soaps and Continuing Drama category at the Royal Television Society Programme Awards, and the judges praised Coulson's portrayal of Carol, saying the soap was "A real class above the rest with a stunning central performance from Lindsay Coulson."[41] Anne Leask from the Sunday Mirror branded Carol a "dark and brooding put-upon single mum" who was desperate to get married.[5]
During the episode dated 30 July 2015, Carol visited Max in prison. Carol called Max a "bastard" and that sparked complaints.[42]
- ^ Kilkelly, Daniel (October 2010). "An anguished Carol sleeps with Connor". Digital Spy. (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 26 October 2010.
- ^ a b c d Brake, Colin (1995). EastEnders: The First 10 Years: A Celebration. BBC Books. ISBN 0-563-37057-2.
- ^ a b c d e f Larry Jaffee (2009). Albert Square & Me: The Actors of Eastenders. iUniverse.com. ISBN 978-1-4401-5987-9.
- ^ a b Lock 2000, p.50.
- ^ a b Leask, Anne (4 March 2001). "Interview: Who needs marriage?; As Carol Jackson in EastEnders, Lindsey Coulson was desperate to tie the knot. Now she's happy without a ring". Sunday Mirror. (Trinity Mirror). Retrieved 24 November 2013.
- ^ a b Hobson 2003, p.93.
- ^ "Profile - Michael French - EastEnders". Inside Soap. Attic Futura (UK) Ltd (30): 36–37. February 1995.
- ^ a b Ross, Victoria (January 1995). "Let's play happy famalies!". Inside Soap. Attic Futura (UK) Ltd (29): 10–11.
- ^ "Can life get any tougher for Pat?". Inside Soap. Attic Futura (UK) Ltd (21): 23. May 1994.
- ^ "Last month....". Inside Soap. Attic Futura (UK) Ltd (21): 54. May 1994.
- ^ Arnold, Richard (July 1995). "But your my dad, David!". Inside Soap. Attic Futura (UK) Ltd (35).
- ^ a b "I'm back on top!". Inside Soap (42): 13. January 1996.
- ^ a b c Timblick, Simon (14–27 December 1996). "I'll be missing you this Christmas". Inside Soap (64): 18–19.
- ^ Green, Kris (13 June 2008). "No Walford return for Carol Jackson". Digital Spy. (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 23 November 2010.
- ^ a b Green, Kris (25 October 2009). "The Jacksons return to 'EastEnders'". Digital Spy. Hachette Filipacchi UK. Retrieved 25 October 2009.
- ^ Green, Kris (17 December 2009). "'EastEnders' exec teases 2010 storylines". Digital Spy. (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 17 December 2009.
- ^ Love, Ryan (18 September 2010). "Devon Anderson exits 'EastEnders'". Digital Spy. (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 23 November 2010.
- ^ a b Love, Ryan (12 October 2010). "'Enders Coulson: 'Billie's death premature'". Digital Spy. (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 23 November 2010.
- ^ a b c d Hamilton, Marie-Anne (12 October 2010). "Lindsey Coulson, EastEnders". TV Choice. (Bauer Media Group). Retrieved 23 November 2010.
- ^ Kilkelly, Daniel (12 October 2010). "Fans praise 'EastEnders' tearjerker". Digital Spy. (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 23 November 2010.
- ^ "Soap Spoilers: Will Carol Jackson survive her suicide attempt?". Metro. (Associated Newspapers Ltd). 19 October 2010. Retrieved 24 November 2010.
- ^ a b Kilkelly, Daniel (14 October 2010). "'Enders star wants friends for Carol". Digital Spy. (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 23 November 2010.
- ^ a b c Kilkelly, Daniel (20 October 2010). "Coulson: 'Carol might reinvent herself'". Digital Spy. (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 23 November 2010.
- ^ Kilkelly, Daniel (17 November 2010). "Barber: 'Glenda should lead Carol astray'". Digital Spy. (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 23 November 2010.
- ^ a b Kilkelly, Daniel (19 October 2010). "'Enders star teases new Carol shock". Digital Spy. (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 23 November 2010.
- ^ Peake, Jon (21–21 September 2013). "The bad penny". TV Choice. Bauer Media Group (39): 15. Check date values in:
- ^ "Look who's back!". TV Choice. Bauer Media Group (39): 17. 21–21 September 2013. Check date values in:
- ^ Peake, Jon (28 September – 4 October 2013). "Bitter rivals". TV Choice. Bauer Media Group (40): 21.
- ^ "Come live with me". TV Choice. Bauer Media Group (40): 24. 28 September – 4 October 2013.
- ^ Jones, Allison (28 September – 4 October 2013). "David's wicked scheme!". Inside Soap. Hearst Magazines UK (39): 8–9.
- ^ a b c "'EastEnders' confirms breast cancer storyline". Digital Spy. 24 November 2013. Retrieved 24 November 2013.
- ^ http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s2/eastenders/news/a654112/eastenders-lindsey-coulson-to-leave-carol-jackson-role.html#~pgc5uUullkGj8h
- ^ Kilkelly, Daniel. "UK TV ratings: Carol Jackson's EastEnders exit seen by 5.6m on Friday". Digital Spy. Retrieved 3 October 2015.
- ^ "Secrets of the Square!". Inside Soap. Attic Futura (UK) Ltd (31): 37. March 1995.
- ^ "Hits & Misses!". Inside Soap. Hearst Magazines International (27): 98. 11–17 July 2015.
- ^ "The 1997 Inside Soap awards". Inside Soap. Attic Futura (UK) Ltd (76): 48–49. 31 May – 13 June 1997.
- ^ Wightman, Catriona (21 September 2010). "National Television Awards 2011 - Nominees". Digital Spy. (Hachette Filipacchi UK). Retrieved 23 November 2010.
- ^ "The British Soap Awards 2011: Nominations". ITV Press Centre. ITV. 2 May 2011. Retrieved 3 May 2011.
- ^ Kilkelly, Daniel (7 March 2011). "British Soap Awards 2011 voting opens". Digital Spy. London: Hachette Filipacchi UK. Retrieved 7 March 2011.
- ^ "In Full: Inside Soap Awards 2011 Nominees". Digital Spy. 11 July 2011. Retrieved 11 July 2011.
- ^ heatworld (16 March 2011). "Eastenders beats Coronation Street at the Royal Television Awards". Heat. London: Bauer Media Group. Retrieved 16 March 2011.
- ^ "EastEnders viewers complain pre-watershed swearing". The Guardian. 31 July 2015. Retrieved 15 September 2015.
- Lock, Kate (2000). EastEnders Who's Who. BBC Books. ISBN 0-563-55178-X.
- Hobson, Dorothy (2003). Soap Opera. Wiley-Blackwell. ISBN 0-7456-2655-6.


text:
President Obama gives himself a grade of "incomplete" on the economy, citing the difficult circumstances he inherited upon taking office in 2009.
"Obviously we are still going through one of the toughest times that we've had in my lifetime," Obama told KKTV of Colorado Springs in an interview aired Monday, but he said his policies are helping turn things around.
Reporter Dianne Derby asked Obama, "your party says you inherited a bad situation -- you've had three and a half years to fix it -- what grade would you give yourself so far for doing that?"
Replied Obama: "You know I would say incomplete. But what I would say is the steps that we have taken in saving the auto industry, in making sure that college is more affordable and investing in clean energy and science and technology and research, those are all the things that we are going to need to grow over the long term."
Aides to Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney quickly jumped on the "incomplete" remark.
"If President Obama can't even give himself a passing grade, why would the American people give him another four years?" said Romney campaign spokesperson Amanda Henneberg.
Obama noted that the financial crisis of 2008 cost the nation 9 million jobs.
"We've recovered 4.5 million jobs since that time and half a million manufacturing jobs," Obama said. "And here in Colorado you've seen sort of progress in areas like wind energy, for example, and clean energy where because of the investments we've made you're starting to see people being hired."
David's journalism career spans three decades, including coverage of five presidential elections, the Oklahoma City bombing, the 2000 Florida presidential recount and the 9/11 terrorist attacks. He has covered the White House for USA TODAY since 2005. His interests include history, politics, books, movies and college football -- not necessarily in that order. More about David
Follow the Oval on Twitter: @The Oval, @djusatoday.
Also contributing to the Oval: Richard Wolf @richardjwolf; Aamer Madhani @AamerISmad


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The History Of The Blind Beggar
In The Legend Of The Blind Beggar Henry de Montfort was wounded and lost his sight in the Battle of Evesham in 1265, and was nursed to health by a baroness, and together they had a child named Besse. He became the "Blind Beggar of Bednal Green" and used to beg at the crossroads. The story of how he went from landed gentry to poor beggar became popular in the Tudor era, and was revived by Percy's Reliques of Ancient English Poetry, published in 1765. The legend came to be adopted in the arms of the Metropolitan Borough of Bethnal Green in 1900.
William Booth (1829-1912) Booth was the founder of The Salvation Army and preached his first sermon outside the Beggar. William and Catherine Booth opened the "Whitechapel Mission". BOOTH HOUSE (a mens resettlement centre), now stands in Whitechapel Road and a statue of him also stands close by. The pub is a common tourist attraction for Salvationists.


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Can You Guess Which Country Artist This Kid Grew Up to Be?
OK, let's say it in unison … (one, two, three) "Awwwww!" This future country star looks all kinds of cute in a picture from her childhood. Fashion would never be a problem for this singer, as today she's praised for making bold choices with her style. There's hardly a magazine rack in the country without a picture of her face smiling back at you.
Do you think you know who this singer is? The picture makes it pretty obvious, so we'll hold back any further clues and wait for you to make your guess. Click the button below to see if you're right and to see more pictures of country stars as kids.