text:
Gov. Bobby Jindal took about six questions Thursday afternoon in the first direct availability he allowed State Capitol reporters in about four months. The next day he held a news conference to roll out juvenile justice legislative proposals.
All this access came last week after national commentators noticed two polls that claim Jindal's popularity with Louisiana voters is slipping.
His communications director, Kyle Plotkin, called reporters up and down press row in the State Capitol on Thursday night after their stories posted online, saying it was "snarky" to include that Jindal had not spoken to them in months. In a way, Plotkin was correct, Jindal has allowed interviews with national reporters.
Fox & Friends morning show on Feb. 4 gave Jindal seven and half minutes to explain to a national audience what he had not personally discussed yet with his Louisiana constituency: What he planned to do with the state's taxpayers.
Brian Kilmeade, who made his chops as a sports reporter, asked no probing questions; like what would happen to seniors who pay little or no income taxes, but could be saddled with more sales taxes? Or what about the oil and gas exploration and production companies, many of which pay little or no corporate taxes, but could be zapped with a large bill if their severance tax exemptions are rescinded?
Without diversionary questions, Jindal was able to keep "on message."
Louisiana's tax code has 468 exemptions and loopholes, he said. "You get rid of these loopholes, these credits, these giveaways and you say, 'Why are we taking money from people's pockets, sending it to Baton Rouge and then giving it back to special interest groups, to people who have lobbyists?" said Jindal, adding he feels that consumption taxes are philosophically better than income taxes.
"We might have to raise the sales tax a little to make up some of these dollars," Jindal said.
"Great job, Brian," Fox & Friends hostess Gretchen Carlson said at the conclusion of the interview.
When Louisiana reporters asked the pesky questions, Jindal replied: "Everything is on the table."
G. Pearson Cross, chair of the political science department at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, has long said that Jindal pays attention to Louisiana only when his numbers here start slipping. During the past week or so, two different polls — one conducted by a GOP pollster and the other by a firm that works for Democrats — found that more Louisiana voters disapproved of Jindal than approved of him.
The poll commissioned by the Louisiana Medical Society and conducted by GOP pollster Voter/Consumer Research, of Washington, D.C., showed Jindal with a job approval rating of 46 percent and a disapproval rating of 48 percent, which includes a remarkably high 37 percent voicing strong disapproval.
Then, Public Policy Polling, of Raleigh, N.C., released a poll showing Jindal's approval rating was 37 percent and disapproval rating was 57 percent.
Jindal blew off the poll findings when asked by Louisiana reporters on Thursday.
But the national commentators, who had earlier hailed Jindal's national aspirations, noticed.
Politico.com noted on Wednesday "a dramatic drop in his popularity back home." Under a headline of "Bobby Jindal's make-or-break moment," The Washington Post wrote Thursday: "If his governance gets subpar marks from his state's conservative electorate, it will call into question his formidability on the national stage."
Plotkin, Jindal's communication man, insists that Jindal has not been aloof from the Louisiana press corps. He contends that he and other aides speak for Jindal when the governor is not personally available. "Our end goal is to have the administration's positions stated in the story," Plotkin said.
Former Secretary of State Henry A. Kissinger noted in his 2011 book "On China," that Chinese rulers traditionally have operated out of sight with very limited public contact. "Many cultures, and surely all Western ones, buttress the authority of the ruler by demonstrative contact of some kind with the ruled," he wrote. Kissinger said it's a cultural concept difficult for those traditional leaders to grasp as that country emerges into an era with a more open economy and a more transparent system.
Mark Ballard is editor of the Capitol news bureau. His email address is email@example.com.


text:
Even in the San Gabriel Valley, an area east of L.A where Asian dessert options abound, it can be difficult to find snow ice. This delicacy is a spin-off of the more common Taiwanese shaved ice (also very similar to Hawaiian ice), which is a block of ice shaved into fine crystals and served with sweet toppings such as red bean or condensed milk.
Snow ice, or xue hua bing, is shaved ice's creamy counterpart. It's made by freezing a block of flavored, sweet milk and shaving it down into flaky ribbons of layered snow. Think of a cold treat that's reminiscent of ice cream but so much more airy. The snow is crowned with a variety of sweet toppings from pudding, boba, rice cake, red bean, taro, mango or strawberry to condensed milk, caramel, and chocolate.
Luckily, there is Class 302 in Rowland Heights. Over the years, this Taiwanese dessert shop has developed a cult-like following and a long line is guaranteed with nearly every visit. But for the sake of research and our readers, we waited in line and ordered eight variations of Class 302's shaved snow for your viewing (and drooling) purposes.
Best of all? Each serving of snow ice retails for around $6.50 and is large enough to feed two to three people.
About the author: Clarissa Wei is a food writer. She writes heavily about Chinese and Taiwanese food and has yet to find stinky tofu in the States that has impressed her. You can follow her on Twitter @dearclarissa.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
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Step back into Colonial America and visit Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania on this Family Experiences trip.
"An experience of a lifetime"
Hsiao Ling Caroline Chai
8 Days, 1 Country, 6 Cities
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Washington DC, USA
Washington DC, USA
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Exciting moments in U.S. history are uncovered in this East Coast family encounter, from the Declaration of Independence to the Battle of Gettysburg.
You'll enjoy Insider moments like… dining at one of the 'most haunted' homes in Gettysburg, followed by your special guest taking you back to a time, maybe four score and seven years, to learn about life in the Civil War.
Trip type: Family Experience
Trip code: DTLF
7 full breakfasts.
3 dinners.
1 lunch.
All transport shown.
What's Included
City tour in Washington, D.C.
See the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol Building and the Liberty Bell
Visit Lancaster County, Hershey's Chocolate World, Mount Vernon, Gettysburg National Military Park and Independence Hall in Philadelphia.
What's Included
7 full breakfasts.
3 dinners.
1 lunch.
What's Included
Audio Headsets for flexible sightseeing
Daily breakfast and an average of 50% of evening meals
Luxury air-conditioned coach with WiFi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Cherry-picked hotels all tried and trusted
Hand-picked Insider Experiences
Optional Experiences and free time
Porterage and local charges included
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
An expert Travel Director and separate Driver
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Airport transfers on the first and last day of your guided holiday
VIP entry to many sights
Airport Transfers
Specific transfer information can be found on the airport transfers page
Trails of Liberty
Day 1Arrive Washington, D.C. (3 Nights) Day 1 - Arrive Washington, D.C. (3 Nights)
Ghosts and heroes, ammunition, battle strategies and chocolate making-you're sure to have a blast as history comes alive on this patriotic adventure. Check in to your hotel, then set out on your own to explore the nation's capital. At 6 p.m. gather at the hotel with your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Kick-off Party.
Renaissance Washington, D.C. Downtown
Renaissance Washington, D.C. Downtown
Day 2Washington, D.C. Sightseeing and Free Time Day 2 - Washington, D.C. Sightseeing and Free Time
Join a Local Specialist for a tour of the capital and many of its famous landmarks. View the Washington Monument, the National Mall, the Capitol and the White House. You'll be awed as you walk right up to the Lincoln Memorial and World War II Memorial. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon to explore wherever you want. Maybe visit one of the world's greatest museums like the Smithsonian Institution. Check out the space vehicles at the National Air and Space Museum or look up at the bellies of the gigantic dinosaurs at the Museum of Natural History.
Optional Experiences
Illumination Tour
You'll be wowed by this illuminated overview of the nation's capital city at night! See the Capitol, the White House and the Jefferson Memorial. Visit the Kennedy Center for a rooftop walk and end the evening at the Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial. (Stops are subject to weather and local restrictions). Approx. duration: 2 hours
Adult Price: US$39.00
Day 3Washington, D.C. Free Time Day 3 - Washington, D.C. Free Time
Enjoy an entire day to explore all of the activities and historic sights the United States capital city has to offer. See the adorably playful pandas at the National Zoo or perhaps take the whole family to learn about one of the most mysterious and exciting jobs around, being a spy, at the International Spy Museum. The kids will love a chance to test their spy skills at the School for Spies. Tonight, enjoy a lively dinner with your travelling companions.
Day 4Washington D.C. – Philadelphia (2 Nights) Day 4 - Washington D.C. – Philadelphia (2 Nights)
Follow in the footsteps of Benjamin Franklin, the great inventor and statesman, as you travel to Philadelphia. Stop at the Reading Terminal Market, an old train shed opened in 1892 that now houses a huge marketplace featuring food stands serving up yummy local delights. With so many choices, you may need a while to decide which treats you want to try-maybe dig into an authentic Philly cheesesteak or a piping hot Pennsylvania Dutch apple dumpling. Continue on to the Independence National Historic Park and visit the National Constitution Center. You'll find out how the giant Liberty Bell cracked when you visit it on display in its own pavilion. View Independence Hall where Franklin and the other founding fathers started the country's favourite national holiday with the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
Courtyard Philadelphia Downtown
Courtyard Philadelphia Downtown
Day 5Philadelphia Free Time Day 5 - Philadelphia Free Time
Today is all yours to explore the friendly "City of Brotherly Love." Your Travel Director will be happy to help you plan your day. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Optional Experiences
Philadelphia Dinner and Walking Tour
Old Town Philadelphia, the historic center of this great city, is best seen by foot. Come join us for a walking tour around the streets where the American nation was born. Step back in time with our knowledgeable guide to see where Betsy Ross created the first American Flag, Carpenter's Hall where the First Continental Congress met in 1774, the site of Benjamin Franklin's home, the First Bank of the United States and much more. We end the tour with a three-course dinner at a historic restaurant that shares in the wonder of Philadelphia! Approx. 2 hours.
Adult Price: US$77.50
Day 6Philadelphia – Lancaster County – Hershey – Harrisburg Day 6 - Philadelphia – Lancaster County – Hershey – Harrisburg
Wave goodbye to Philadelphia as you make your way to Amish country, Lancaster County, for a special lunch. Then travel on to another world-Hershey's Chocolate World that is-where you'll learn the chocolate making process of this Cultural Insight and everyone will get to try their hand and make their very own customised chocolate candy bar. Later, get settled in at your hotel in Harrisburg.
Radisson Harrisburg
Radisson Harrisburg
Day 7Harrisburg – Gettysburg Day 7 - Harrisburg – Gettysburg
"Four score and seven years ago," Gettysburg was one of the most important battlegrounds in the Civil War where President Lincoln gave his remarkable Gettysburg Address and it's your first destination this morning. Tour the battlefield with a Local Specialist and be amazed by the greatest collection of Civil War relics at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum. Get settled in to your hotel before meeting your newfound friends for a festive Regional Meal Farewell Dinner at the "most haunted" 19th century Dobbins House with a special guest.
Wyndham Gettysburg
Wyndham Gettysburg
Day 8Gettysburg – Mount Vernon – Depart Washington, D.C. Day 8 - Gettysburg – Mount Vernon – Depart Washington, D.C.
Be assured that George Washington really did sleep here with today's visit to Mount Vernon, the home and final resting place of the first President of the United States. Kids, search for clues to solve the nine different puzzles with the special map you will receive as you tour the mansion and gardens, and walk along the forest trail to meet the farm animals. Return to Washington, D.C. where your journey ends with a transfer to the airport or to the Renaissance Washington, D.C. Downtown Hotel for guests extending their stay.
Cultural Insights
Make your very own chocolate bar at Hershey's Chocolate World.
Hidden Treasures
Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure.
Local Specialists
Get a more in-depth look in Washington, D.C. and visit the historic battlefield of Gettysburg.
Find out what makes Trafalgar different.
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What's Included
City tour in Washington, D.C.
See the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol Building and the Liberty Bell
Visit Lancaster County, Hershey's Chocolate World, Mount Vernon, Gettysburg National Military Park and Independence Hall in Philadelphia.
What's Included
7 full breakfasts.
3 dinners.
1 lunch.
What's Included
Audio Headsets for flexible sightseeing
Daily breakfast and an average of 50% of evening meals
Luxury air-conditioned coach with WiFi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Cherry-picked hotels all tried and trusted
Hand-picked Insider Experiences
Optional Experiences and free time
Porterage and local charges included
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
An expert Travel Director and separate Driver
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Airport transfers on the first and last day of your guided holiday
VIP entry to many sights
Airport Transfers
Specific transfer information can be found on the airport transfers page
Why Trafalgar?
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Enjoy the wonder of travel, crisscrossing the globe through the seasons. On effortless adventures in breathtaking new horizons, forge lifelong friendships and memories. Our lovingly crafted itineraries are a fascinating mosaic of cultures, flavours, festivals and local stories. We're with you all the way, guiding you and ensuring you experience the real thing: the sheer love of travel, entirely hassle-free.
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Meet warm-hearted locals and like-minded travellers. Along your journey of discovery, stop to share stories and flavours with local farmers, chefs and winemakers. Pause to admire the handicrafts and rich traditions of amazing artisans. Explore the essence of Europe through captivating accounts shared by expert historians and savvy local guides.
Simply AuthenticTaste
Travelling with your tastebuds, treating them to new flavours, spices and textures along the way. From the very first breakfast to the last nightcap, travelling through Europe indulges your palate, with every meal an opportunity to discover regional fare. Savour each new flavour, try the local tipple and take home fresh culinary inspiration. Let us share our love for food and hospitality with you.
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Once you've packed your suitcase, we take care of the rest, removing all your concerns so that you can be secure in the knowledge that an award-winning global company with an impeccable reputation has taken care of every little detail. We arrange everything you'll need along your journey - meals, accommodation and travel logistics, because we are with you all the way. Travel the world with peace of mind, knowing you're in the hands of Trafalgar.
Guest Service Rating from 6 Reviews
Loved every part of tour and so did my 14 yr. old grandson. Tour director was fabulous! Very patient w/ some vivacious young ladies (kids).
Service rating : This was my second trip and I can't say anything negative. I would definitely do another one! Tasha and John were the best.Product : All the special added side trips and commentators were great.
Service rating : They covered everything we wanted to see on our trip. They were extremely helpful on the free days we had and offered shuttles to various areas we wanted to see instead of making us look for our own transportation. Very impressiveProduct : I may have rated a little high but I am
Service rating : Great service from RandyProduct : Wanted to see more. I thought more tours were an option
It was a great tour!
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 23/3/2013 (1614 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
The sun did come up, the world did not end. And so it was in the immediate aftermath of having their rumps kicked in back-to-back losses that the Winnipeg Jets tiptoed around the wreckage searching for answers.
It began with coach Claude Noel's decision not to skate them into the ground, what with his team having just completed a five-games-in-seven-nights stretch. In fact, he suggested his troops get away from the microscope of analysis by going to a movie. Captain Andrew Ladd was going to spend his Saturday with his newborn son. Ron Hainsey spent Friday after the game watching golf on his PVR. Bryan Little was leaving his options open to just about anything except watching more hockey.
And the most common refrain from the Jets clubhouse was to not spend an inordinate amount of time beating themselves up repeatedly. They are still first in the Southeast Division at 16-14-2, after all, and still hold down the third seed in the Eastern Conference.
Just call it Silver-lining Saturday.
"The danger is dwelling on the negatives and letting that pull you down," said Jets captain Andrew Ladd. "You look at the big picture and we're still first in our division and we've done a lot of good things to put us in this spot. We've got to look at that and realize that we can do those things and we need to do those going forward.
"We've done the work to put ourselves in a good position here to control our own destiny in these last 16 games. That's something we talked about today. I believe in this group and I think everyone in here believes we have the players to do it. That's the great thing about playing every other day: you get the chance to get back on the horse and get another shot."
That next shot comes today, when the Tampa Bay Lightning arrive to wrap up the Jets' four-game homestand (7 p.m.; TSN Jets/TSN 1290). They'll then head to Raleigh, N.C., for a critical matchup with the Hurricanes on Tuesday, followed by a trip to Pittsburgh for a date with the Penguins on Thursday before the Canes are here next Saturday.
"We're trying to keep balance with things," Noel said. "We're trying to keep an even keel with things. We're sitting here in a decent position with 16 games to go and very much in control of our own destiny. We've got to produce and we all know that. Our focus is singular and just focusing on the day, (today's) the game and let's try to get it done with what we have."
There was talk about fatigue, but also the admission every team is battling that. Most of all there was a consensus to spend the day clearing their heads and resting and then coming back to work today with a renewed sense of purpose.
"The best thing we can do is not get negative and not start pointing fingers and trying to find problems," said Bryan Little. "The best thing to do is put it behind us and try and focus on winning (today). It affects you as much as you want it to. Obviously it's frustrating losing two games where we had a chance to get some ground and get four points, but there's nothing we can do now. There's no sense moping around about it.
"You can really sit and feel bad for yourself and feel sorry for yourself over how we played in the last couple of games. We've got to try to put that behind us and put all our effort and focus into (today). If we have a great game then everybody forgets about the last two games."
email@example.com Twitter: @WFPEdTait
After two...
THE Winnipeg Jets have hit the two thirds mark of their 2013 season -- 32 of 48 games played.
Here's a quick glance at what is in the rear-view mirror and what lies ahead:
Record: 16-14-2; first in Southeast Division, third in Eastern Conference
First third: 7-8-1
Second third: 9-6-1
What's left: 16 games: Home: 9/Road: 7 and seven vs. Southeast Division opponents.
Home record: 7-8; Road record: 9-6-2
Power play: 13.7 % (27th in the NHL*)
Penalty kill: 77.8 % (25th in the NHL*)
Leading scorer: Andrew Ladd: 14 G, 17 A, 31 pts in 32 GP
Most game-winning goals: Evander Kane, 4
Most minutes (average): Dustin Byfuglien has averaged 24 minutes 58 seconds of ice time per game
*Not including Saturday's action
--Ed Tait


text:
A9 TV; 14 May 2012
(Today is the anniversary of the foundation of the state of Israel. Israel declared independence on May 14th 1948, with a U.N. General Assembly ruling. Following that declaration on the night of 14/15 May, five Arabic countries commenced a military operation against Israel. That led to the beginning of the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. The Palestinians refer to that day as the "nakbah" or great tragedy. Following the foundation of Israel, 4.5 million Palestinians were made into refugees, and 78% of Palestinian territory has been occupied since 1948.)
The thing to be done is for Palestine, Israel, Egypt and all Muslims to bind themselves to Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh). For them to bind themselves to the person they call the King Messiah. They have now gradually begun pulling themselves together, returning to religion, in other words. They will now follow a line that will make them fully submitted to and supportive of the King Messiah, Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh). In that case they will enjoy the greatest worldly peace and joy in those holy lands, which has been foretold for 3,000 years, even since the days of the Prophet Abraham (pbuh). Insha'Allah, they will also know happiness in the hereafter, since they will be followers of Muhammed (saas). The holy ark of the Prophet Noah (pbuh) will be found, the sacred relics will be found. That tablet referred to in the Qur'an will be found, the manna from that time will be found, the staff of the Prophet Moses (pbuh) and many other relics will be unearthed and that will be instrumental in our Jewish brothers coming to faith en masse. The years ahead will be the years of these marvels. Then will come the Reckoning. People may think they will live for a very long time when these signs are made good. Not so. There will be a global reign of seven or nine years, and things will decay. Then the Reckoning will follow very quickly. We are now at the end of the world. It is finished.
Possessing a tract of land in the region is no salvation for Israel. They are now in a wretched state. They are in a wretched state economically, and politically and socially as well. Everyone is hostile to them and against them. They cannot go anywhere. They are not safe. They cannot live easily there. Yet what Allah promises is a climate of peace and joy for the whole region. It is Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) who will bring that about. The King Messiah. Moshiach, Shiloh. Insha'Allah, they will say that. But they must pray and look for natural causes to bring it about. Oppressing and despising others is not the way. Inflicting pain through terror is not the way. The way is through love and affection and compassion.
(Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are about to agree to unite their foreign, defense and economic policies. It is being said that other Gulf countries will soon join them. Both countries will maintain their independence and continue to be members of the U.N., insha'Allah.)
Finally, Islamic Unity, a chain of events. Insha'Allah, our brothers will continue to serve with fervor. Almighty Allah is bringing things about within a specific course of events. Almighty Allah has kept all of His promises. Almighty Allah said I will produce two comets in the time of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh), one of which will have a double tail; one will be very bright, and the other will travel in the opposite direction to all other comets. Allah kept His promise and produced the comets. He said He would create eclipses of the Sun and Moon, fifteen and three days apart, during the month of Ramadan, and He revealed this to our Prophet (saas). And He kept that promise. Almighty Allah said the waters of the Euphrates would be stopped, and so they were. He said that Iraq would be occupied, He promised that, and so it happened. Because they all came about with wisdom. And all the 5,550 other portents, that people can see on the internet. Then Almighty Allah said I will send My Mahdi. You will not recognize him at first, He said. Not even he will know who he is, He says. But Almighty Allah sets out the signs.
My first forebearer was not Hazrat Hasan, nor Hazrat Hussein. Hazrat Ali had another son called Abu Hanifa, by another wide. I am descended from him. I have sayyid and sharif female ancestors. That is how I am both sayyid and sharif. I have both sayyid and sharif female ancestors in four lines, insha'Allah. My devotion to Hazrat Hasan and Hazrat Hussein comes from there, insha'Allah. But my real ancestor is Abu Hanifa, one of the sons of Hazrat Ali. People may not know that, so let me tell them, insha'Allah.
The 12 imams. Some of our Sunni brothers are reluctant to speak of them. Allah dried up their mouths and tongues. There is a huge love for the ahl al-bayt (People of the House; the family of the Prophet Muhammed (saas)). Previously there was a crazy way of thinking, and they kept their distance from the ahl al-bayt as best they could. Whereas we should be rejoicing. Someone who does not love the ahl al-bayt does not love our Prophet (saas). But, thanks be to Allah, they have been freed from that mindset, insha'Allah.
Look at the world with love. Allah created the world with love. Almighty Allah did not create it to oppress us and throw us into hell. Why should Almighty Allah want to oppress us and make us suffer? "Why should Allah punish you if you are thankful and have faith? Allah is All-Thankful, All-Knowing."
(Surat an-Nisa', 147) He wants us to be happy, but He threatens us with hell. Allah says he will throw people into hell and make them suffer if they behave badly. That is why He has created the people of hell; but there is a mercy in that. Something amazing. Almighty Allah says we will think they are alive, but they are not. "They are dead, not alive, and they are not aware of when they will be raised."
(Surat an-Nahl, 21) He says they are dead, like zombies. This is amazing. You think they look and see. But they do not, He says. He says they are sightless. "We created many of the jinn and mankind for Hell. They have hearts they do not understand with. They have eyes they do not see with. They have ears they do not hear with. Such people are like cattle. No, they are even further astray! They are the unaware." (Surat al-A'raf, 179)
In other words, they do not see you, but they appear to see, He says. They do not hear, but they seem to hear, He says. Do not be deceived, says Allah. Do not be deceived by their seeing and hearing, for they are not normal living things, He says. For the sake of comparison, Almighty Allah says they are like animals. But in order that we do not understand, He says they are actually lower than animals. They are very horrible creatures, He says. That is how I have created them, for hell, He says. There is a necessary secret here. Our dying is very comfortable. We do not die in terror. Believers are excellent. Of course there may be pain in death, that is the test. Of course one does not die dancing and with drums and pipes playing. There must be a test. But when the soul is taken there is relaxation. It is taken away easily. But everything would be meaningless without the test.
Many people wonder, what if there were no test? If there were no test, everything would be finished, may Allah forbid. There would be no meaning to anything. Not to love or friendship or life or anything. There would be nothing beautiful. The beauty of women would be meaningless. The beauty of flowers and plants… the universe would be ruined. There has to be a test. Think and you will see. Without it, there would just be a void. The universe would be flat. Mankind would be ruined, may Allah forbid.
Then you have the bigots who say, "Do not use that make of car or drink out of that kind of cup." Don't be stupid, my brother. Fedek and everywhere were all in the hands of the unbelievers. Muslims inherited their lands and homes. And they went and lived there. Rasulullah (saas) did not say, this is the home of a pervert. There were lands belonging to the unbelievers at Haybar. Perverse and immoral people. Frauds. But Muslims came into possession of their homes and lands and gardens. But he did not say, "Perverts lived here, so do not make use of this place." For example, our Prophet (saas) wore a robe from Byzantium. Byzantium was a veritable by-word for cheating and trickery in those days. That is how those perverts behaved. The people who made those hand-made artifacts were those very same perverts. But Rasulullah (saas) still wore it. Why should he not? What crime did those mere objects ever commit? These idiots are trying to limit Muslims' horizons. The owner of that firm is a pervert. And? Should one not buy his house off him? Why? The owner of this shoe company is a pervert. And? So you must not wear that firm's shoes. Why not? That is out of the question, you imbecile. Most of the clothes you wear are of that kind.
Surat ar-Rahman; "In them are fruits and date-palms and pomegranates." (Surat ar-Rahman, 68)
Allah says that there are dates and pomegranates in paradise, the like of which have never been seen before. The pomegranate is bitter, but not in paradise. The dates of paradise are different again, not like the dates here. "So which of your Lord's blessings do you both then deny?" (Surat ar-Rahman, 69)
"In them are sweet, lovely maidens." (Surat ar-Rahman, 70)
Since it would be meaningless if they were not sweet and lovely, Allah tells us that is how they are. Some women in this world are not sweet-natured so they do not affect people. They just make you uncomfortable. But if she is sweet and attractive, that has a huge impact.
"Dark-eyed, secluded in cool pavilions." (Surat ar-Rahman, 72)
They live in large tents. They have never engaged in sexual relations. They are still virgins. They are chaste, and have never had illicit relations. Radiant and immaculate women. Your wives alone.
"So which of your Lord's blessings do you both then deny?" (Surat ar-Rahman, 73)
"Untouched before them by either man or jinn." (Surat ar-Rahman, 74)
Almighty Allah says they have never had sexual relations. He says they are chaste, they have never had sexual relations. They will only enter into sexual relations with their husbands. They will only have lawful relations.
"So which of your Lord's blessings do you both then deny?
Reclining on green quilts and exquisite rugs." (Surat ar-Rahman, 75-76)
Those quilts and rugs are exceedingly beautiful. They lie with their husbands on lovely rugs, "reclining on… exquisite rugs." What does one do with one's lawful beloved. One loves her and lies with her and makes love. Lawful, because the details given here are much more comprehensive regarding the sexuality in paradise.
"So which of your Lord's blessings do you both then deny?
Blessed be the name of your Lord,Master of Majesty and Generosity." (Surat ar-Rahman, 78-79)
"Reclining on green quilts and exquisite rugs."
What does this mean? The beds will be wide and large and well maintained. You will lie with your beloved who has never engaged in relations before, says Almighty Allah. She will belong to, and have eyes for you alone. She will look at you with passion and belong to you. She will be as smooth as an egg. In other verses, Allah compares them to pearls. They are well-groomed and beautiful. And there is none of the weakness of this world upon them. For example, there is no blood in their bodies. No bodily fluids, no weakness of any kind. They are highly attractive and immortal. They do not die. Their beauty lives forever.
Allah says, "In them are maidens with eyes for them alone, untouched before them by either man or jinn." (Surat ar-Rahman, 56)
Allah emphasizes the beauty of a chaste and untouched woman. A woman who has engaged in illicit relations with everyone cannot be beautiful, or affect anyone. The Qur'an emphasizes how only a women who loves her husband alone can be beautiful.
"So which of your Lord's blessings do you both then deny?
Like precious gems of ruby and pearl." (Surat ar-Rahman, 57-58)
Allah compares them to rubies and pearls. Allah compares their perfect luminosity and beauty to that of pearls and rubies, so people can understand. But they are far more perfect than the rubies and pearls in this world, of course.
"So which of your Lord's blessings do you both then deny?
Will the reward for doing good be anything other than good?" (Surat ar-Rahman, 59-60)
Allah says I will do you good if you do good.
"So which of your Lord's blessings do you both then deny?" (Surat ar-Rahman, 61)
"As well as those two there will be two other Gardens.
So which of your Lord's blessings do you both then deny?
Of deep viridian green." (Surat ar-Rahman, 62-63-64) as green as can be, the gardens and the vines.
"So which of your Lord's blessings do you both then deny?
In them are two gushing springs."
(Surat ar-Rahman, 65-66) Endlessly flowing springs delight people. Water has been created such as to delight us, be it a spring, or a river or the ocean. "So which of your Lord's blessings do you both then deny?"
(Surat ar-Rahman, 67) In this verse, Almighty Allah constantly reiterates that the blessings cannot be denied. To remind one of them in the hereafter, insha'Allah.2012-08-02 11:03:45


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Birbal The Wise - XIXSituation puzzles (sometimes called lateral thinking puzzles) are ones where you need to ask lots of yes or no questions to figure out what happened in the situation. These are good puzzles for groups where one person knows the puzzle and answers the questions.
Emperor Akbar once ruled over India. He was a wise and intelligent ruler; and he had in his court the Nine Gems, his nine advisors, who were each known for a particular skill. One of these Gems was Birbal, known for his wit and wisdom. The story below is one of the examples of his wit. Do you have it in you to find the answer?
One day the Emperor Akbar stumbled on a small rock in the royal gardens and momentarily went off balance. He was in a bad mood that day and the incident only served to make him more angry.
Finding a target for his mood of the day, he ordered the gardener's arrest and execution.
Birbal heard of this and visited the gardener in the cell where he was being held awaiting execution. Birbal had known the gardener for many years and also knew of the gardener's immense respect and sense of loyalty for the king. He decided to help the gardener escape the death sentence and explained his plan to the gardener, who reluctantly agreed to go along.
The next day the gardener was asked what his last wish was before he was hanged, as was custom. The gardener requested an audience with the emperor. This wish was granted, but when the man neared the throne he tried to attack the emperor.
The emperor was shocked and demanded an explanation. The gardener looked at Birbal, who stepped forward and explained why the gardener had attacked the emperor.
The emperor immediately realised how unjust he had been and ordered the release of the gardener. How did Birbal manage this?
Answer"Your Majesty," said Birbal, "there is probably no person more loyal to you than this unfortunate gardener. Fearing that people would say you hanged him for a silly reason and question your sense of justice, he went out of his way to give you a genuine reason for hanging him."
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The UAB Graduate Programs Fair, Graduate Programs Opportunities 2012, will be held in the HUC Great Hall on Thursday, October 25, 2012, from 11:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Anyone interested in learning more about graduate school may visit the graduate programs representatives at any time during the event. Additionally, "Hot Topics" (scheduled below) will be discussed in Room A. Everyone is welcome!
Room A: "Hot Topics" Schedule (subject to change)
Why go to graduate school and how to pay for graduate school
Carrer Options: What do you do with an advanced degree?
Information about graduate student groups and support available on campus
Professional Development: Courses available that provide help in academic writing, preparing grants, and presenting research
Why go to graduate school and how to pay for graduate school (Repeat)
How to survive and succeed in graduate school
Making a personal statement stand out
Rooms B, C, and D
Representatives from UAB Graduate Programs and Graduate School staff will be available to answer questions regarding admissions requirements and applying to the program of your choice in an open fair setting.
The first annual Opportunity Zone, held in October 2007, was a big success! Below is the Graduate Student Newsletter article about the recruiting fair.
Students Seek Out The "Opportunity Zone"
More than 200 students attended UAB's first annual Graduate School recruiting fair, "The Opportunity Zone," on Oct. 24, visiting more than 35 Graduate School Program booths and attending presentations on the benefits of getting a higher education by Dean Bryan Noe and Associate Deans Susan Rich and Jeffrey Engler.
"The Opportunity Zone was designed to provide students with information about the UAB Graduate School and academic programs," explains event coordinator Kellie R. Carter. "The main goal behind this was to open up possibilities: Look at what else you can do."
Carter says students seemed to enjoy the "Hot Topics," which covered information such as how to find financing for graduate school, how to find the best fit in a graduate program, and how to survive and succeed while in graduate school.
Speakers included Dean Bryan Noe and Associate Deans Susan Rich and Jeffrey Engler, plus graduate students Mick Edmonds, Wes Edmonds, Guin Robinson and Anne Diers, who discussed their personal experiences at UAB.
Said Diers: "I felt that if just one student learned something about Graduate School that changed his/her perspective, then my participation was well worth it. I definitely think this event increased awareness of just how many graduate programs UAB offers."
Representatives were available to answer student questions, as well as to help students apply on site. "The Opportunity Zone was amazing," said Public Health Program Administrator, Richard Bennett. "We had many inquiries, and there was a great deal of excitement from the students."
The event was a good opportunity for Noe, Engler, and Rich to meet face-to-face with students and answer their questions about funding and finding the right school. In retrospect, Noe commented: "If one considers this event as a first time experiment, I believe everyone involved would agree that it was a highly successful one."
Ms. Carter says that students who missed the event can soon visit the Opportunity Zone link, which will be on the Graduate School Web site in early November.
She adds that the Graduate School is already planning for next year. "We're going to make this an annual event. We want to get the word out to other area schools that we have a good selection of graduate programs at UAB. We want students to realize that they have a first-rate institution in their backyard."


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Fibrin glue is a pasty substance that is applied directly on a wound
(topically) and is most often used after dental procedures to treat people who
have bleeding problems. Fibrin glue contains
clotting factors to help a wound stop bleeding. It is
used for people who lack or have a shortage of clotting factor VIII.
Thrombin powder is a dry powder that can be applied
directly to the top of a wound to stop minor bleeding.
People who have a blood-clotting disorder such as
von Willebrand's disease or
hemophilia may be treated with fibrin glue or thrombin
powder to help control bleeding.
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Mobile catering van owner Roy Messenger has come to the rescue of the organisers of the White Horse Challenge.
The organisers needed to find cooking facilities to make breakfasts for the walkers setting off on the second day of the challenge on July 6.
The event raises money for the Wiltshire Air Ambulance.
After a plea in the Wiltshire Times, Mr Messenger has offered his catering van, called The Italian Job Coffee.
It has been gratefully accepted by the organisers.
Mr Messenger, who lives in Calne, operates mainly at Pewsey Railway Station.
He said: "I do a lot of things for charity and I'm pleased to be able to help at the White Horse Challenge.
"The Wiltshire Air Ambulance is a good charity."
Mr Messenger said he used to work in the NHS and has family members who work in the service as well.
Zoe Meaden, of co-organisers Monahans chartered accountants, said: "We are extremely grateful to Roy for his kind offer and the backing of his loyal customers who made him aware of our plight.
"It's wonderful to see the local community coming together to back such a vital cause."
Starting in Devizes the walk takes a circular route around seven of the White Horses of Wiltshire.


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Florida women's basketball team awaits NCAA fate
Published: Monday, March 10, 2014 at 4:21 p.m.
Last Modified: Monday, March 10, 2014 at 4:21 p.m.
The Florida women's basketball team will be doing some fine tuning while getting some well-deserved rest this week as the Gators (19-12), who defeated Mississippi State, 71-67, in their SEC Tournament opener before dropping a hard-fought, 75-70 decision to No. 12 and eventual tourney runner-up Kentucky in the quarterfinals, await their official postseason fate.
"To have been part of what was the best conference tournament in the country this past weekend was a great experience for our team," coach Amanda Butler said. "We certainly did not finish where we wanted to, but there were certainly a lot of positives to draw from the competition."
The Gators are looking to pick up their third NCAA bid (2009, 2012) under Butler after a fifth-place SEC regular-season finish this season, their best in five years.
The NCAA Women's Tournament selection show airs Monday, March 17, at 7 p.m. on ESPN.
"I think our team is pretty confident and I'm confident that we're in the tournament," Butler said. "I don't think there's any question when you finish in the top five in our league and have the significant RPI wins that we did."
Coming off a tremendous Senior Night performance Friday in which the Gators posted a score of 198.325 in defeating West Virginia, a mark that is the highest in the nation this year and ranks No. 3 all-time in program history, No. 3 UF (8-1, 5-1) caps the regular season with an SEC road meet at Missouri (6-6, 0-5) at 7:30 p.m. Friday.
"We're looking forward to going there for our last regular-season competition before we get prepared for SECs (March 22 in Birmingham)," coach Rhonda Faehn said. "I feel like Friday night's competition was definitely the step that we were looking for as far as getting our athletes prepared for postseason."
Coming off a strong performance at the 2014 SEC Indoor Championships where the women captured the title and the men were runner-up to Arkansas, both UF teams are headed for the 2014 NCAA Indoor Championships in Albuquerque, N.M., Friday and Saturday.
Both squads enter nationals ranked No. 1 in the nation.
"I feel like both teams have a very good chance to do well," coach Mike Holloway said. "We're just going to go in there and do what we do every day, compete at a high level with a lot of pride and passion and just see what happens at the end of the day."
The No. 8 UF women's team is gearing up for the 2014 NCAA Championships in Minneapolis, Minn., March 20-22.
The Gators, who won the 2010 NCAA title, have already qualified 14 swimmers for this year's event, but are hoping to qualify one or more divers as well at the NCAA Diving Zone Championships in Greensboro, N.C., that began Monday and end Wednesday.
"We've got three good female divers, so we feel like if we get one of them, maybe two of them, to qualify for the meet, it would have a good impact." coach Gregg Troy said.
After leveling their SEC slate with a come-from-behind, 4-2 win over South Carolina on Sunday, the No. 26 Gators (5-6, 1-1) continue their current five-match homestand by hosting Tennessee and Georgia this weekend.
UF faces the No. 13 Vols (12-5, 1-2) Friday at 5 p.m. and the No. 16 Bulldogs (7-5, 3-0) Sunday afternoon at 1.
"It's nice to be able to be at home," coach Bryan Shelton said. "Last year, we were the road warriors, so it kind of flipped this year because we're able to play at home more."
The No. 2 Gators (11-2, 3-0), in the midst of playing five consecutive SEC road matches, will travel to face two of their biggest league rivals when they face Tennessee (4-6, 0-2) Friday at 4 p.m. and No. 11 Georgia (8-2, 2-0) Sunday at 1 p.m.
UF is coming off a 4-0 win at South Carolina on Saturday.
"Playing at both these places, the crowds are going to be large, and they don't like the Gators very much," coach Roland Thornqvist said. "We are ready."
UF (7-1, 1-0 ALC), up to No. 4 this week in the IWLCA poll, will carry a seven-match winning streak into Wednesday's home match against Winthrop (2-3) at 6:30 p.m before facing a stern road test at No. 2 Syracuse (6-0) in the Carrier Dome at noon Saturday.
"It's a huge challenge for us," coach Amanda O' Leary said of facing the Orange. "They are an exceptional lacrosse team. They're number two in the country, and it's a well-deserved number two."
The No. 17 Gators will compete at home for the only time this season when they host the 42nd edition of the annual SunTrust Invitational on Friday through Sunday at the Mark Bostick Golf Course.
"We're working hard and getting ready to play a golf course that we're familiar with and play week-in and week-out," coach Emily Glaser said. "It's a real feel-good week for us."
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Georgian Silver & Rose Cut Diamond Tassel Pin/Pendant
$4,595 $6,895
Product Details
A spectacular piece from the Georgian (ca1850) era! This beautiful pin and pendant is made of gilded silver and is encrusted with eye catching Rose Cut diamonds. The piece begins with a circular topper, which is large in size and features a spiraled design. The outer border has elongated petal-like shapes, which encircle a row of smaller, circular shapes, each holding a Rose cut diamond. The largest diamond of all rests in the center and is marvelously faceted on the front surface. Dangling below the topper is a movable tassel, which begins with a single Rose cut diamond at the top. Extending below are 5 strands that meet at a horizontal, diamond encrusted bar. Hanging below the bar are 7 strands, each encrusted with Rose cut diamonds. The strands are hinged, giving movement to the piece, though they rest against a silver bar behind them. The back of the piece has both a bar pin and a double bail, allowing it to be worn as either a pin or a pendant. The pin/pendant has been attached to a modern black silk cord. A piece that is as beautiful as it is versatile, it looks dazzling when worn and would make a fantastic addition to any collection!
Measurements: The piece measures approximately 2 5/8" long, 1 1/4" wide, and 3/8" at its thickest point.
Condition: The overall condition of the piece is excellent. Besides normal surface wear, there is no apparent damage to the gilded silver setting and all of the diamonds are intact. The bar pin fastens securely and is in good working condition.


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If you've ever felt a twinge of resentment toward bankers who land on their feet financially even as their institutions collapse, you'll probably be happy to know the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. has started cracking down on management at failed banks this year.
According to a new study by Cornerstone Research, the FDIC filed more lawsuits against bank directors and officers this year than in 2010 and 2011 combined. In fact, in the fourth quarter of 2012 alone, the agency filed nine separate lawsuits, around four times more than during all of 2010.
For instance, remember IndyMac Bank? Its failure in 2008 cost the FDIC's Deposit Insurance Fund $12 billion, but the agency may be set to recover some of that, thanks to a big judgment against former IndyMac executives. From Jeff Horwitz at American Banker:
The verdict in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California declared three former IndyMac execs culpable for more than $168 million in loan losses. The decision may prove pivotal to the FDIC in recouping a small portion of the more than $12 billion of losses it suffered in the wake of the lender's bankruptcy. The men's liability for the bank's mistakes allows the FDIC to pursue insurance claims involving policies protecting them against findings of negligence.
The case was litigated on behalf of the FDIC by Nossaman LLP, a Los Angeles law firm. It is the first suit to go to trial among 39 that the regulator has brought against the directors of failed banks.
FDIC attorneys claimed during the trial that the worst of the IndyMac Homebuilder Division's excesses began in 2004. They argued that was when the three defendants -- division Chief Executive Scott Van Dellen, Chief Lending Officer Richard Koon and Chief Credit Officer Kenneth Shellem -- concluded that lender competition for blue-chip residential construction loans was driving down margins. The three executives responded by shifting their division's focus to targeting "smaller, less price competitive builders," the FDIC said.
Meanwhile, the executives failed to put in place the controls required to manage this business, the regulator said.
They've probably ruined a lot of executives' holidays, but the suits may end up benefiting consumers.
Despite being cushioned from the full blow of a bank failure by FDIC insurance, consumers often pay the price when banks fail by getting less favorable rates and higher fees than they had at their old bank. More bank failures also mean fewer choices for consumers in local markets. And of course, bank failures put taxpayers at risk because the FDIC is backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government, which ultimately means we would all be on the hook in the event of a truly catastrophic run of bank failures.
While these lawsuits likely will recoup only a small percentage of the FDIC's losses of the past few years, they might well be worth the trouble if going after the personal fortunes of executives who play key roles in a bank's collapse can help curtail risky behavior in the industry. Still, it also will likely discourage banks from loosening their purse strings when it comes to consumer lending, too.
What do you think? Is suing executives at failed banks a good idea? Do you think the threat of lawsuits will keep bankers on the straight and narrow?
Follow me on Twitter: @ClaesBell.


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Sep 19, 2011
ProfNet Connect Blog Roundup: Good Customer Service, Video CSR Reporting, ProfNet Connect Anniversary Party
ProfNet Connect, our free online community for journalists, bloggers, PR pros, experts and communicators of all stripes, features blog section where members can write and post as their hearts desire. The site is chockablock with interesting people and content. Here are some of the most popular posts from last week. Enjoy!
Transparency: A Critical Component to Good Customer Service. Do You Have It?
Why can't every company deliver good customer service? They could, but most companies have put themselves in a position that doesn't allow them to execute with the needed level of internal and external transparency to bring this additional value to their customers. Ed Shepherdson, SVP of Enterprise Solutions, Coveo, takes a look at a topic all companies should think about.
#ConnectChat Recap: Social Media for Writers
Social media has changed the way journalists, bloggers and other writers develop story ideas, manage resources, and promote their work to a wide cross-section of readers. But with the number of social media platforms increasing by the day, how can writers wade through all the social-media noise and find the ones that will be most useful to them? Maria Perez, Director of News Operations at ProfNet, hosted the latest #ConnectChat to help answer this question.
Trend to Watch: Video CSR Reporting
Video CSR reporting can serve as an effective counterbalance to the traditional written report, if thoughtfully produced. Seri McClendon, CEO of CLEAN Agency enlightens us about this particular suggestion.
Activating Your Marketing Mix with Mobile
If you're a marketer, there's no doubt you want to increase engagement, sales and loyalty with your consumers. Sure, your traditional media mix of print, TV, radio and email helps create conversations with consumers, but if you're seeking to turn those conversations into meaningful dialogues, you definitely want to consider mobile. Melissa Lederer, Marketing Consultant at Vibes Media provides some lessons to help with mobile initiatives.
ProfNet Connect Anniversary Party: Join Us!
This month, ProfNet Connect is celebrating its first anniversary, and we're ready to party! If you're in the NY metro area, please join us on Tuesday, Sept. 27! We'll have special guest speakers, food and drink — and, of course, cake! Join the ProfNet team including Evelyn Tipacti, Community Editor, ProfNet Connect.
Stay abreast of conversations, trends and opportunities by joining us on ProfNet Connect, a free online community for journalists, bloggers and communications professionals to meet, connect and share their expertise. Creating a profile on ProfNet connect adds a search-engine friendly element to your digital resume, bolsters your online reputation and enables you to showcase your expertise to media and bloggers. Did we already mention that membership is free? http://profnetconnect.com
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Discover how this low-cost innovative concept is an interesting option for investors wishing to have some control over their investments .


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The Office of Governor-Elect Maggie Hassan
CONCORD – Governor-elect Maggie Hassan and Department of Safety Commissioner John Barthelmes jointly announced today that they will name Perry Plummer, Director of the Division of Fire Standards and Training and Emergency Medical Services and former Dover Fire Chief, to serve as Acting Director of the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, to replace outgoing Director Christopher Pope, who is stepping down as Director on January 3rd.
Director Plummer entered the fire service in 1986 as a firefighter for the City of Dover, where he quickly progressed through the department, serving as a Lieutenant, Captain, and Assistant Chief, culminating as Chief of that department. He was appointed to his current post as Director of Fire Standards and Training and Emergency Medical Services in May of 2011, overseeing the Fire Academy in Concord, fire training curriculum and certification, and the Bureau of Emergency Medical Services. In that role he has been involved as part of the Department of Safety's team, along with Safety's other Division Directors, that has assisted Director Pope and the Governor in providing resources and assistance handling all emergency situations since that time.
"Maintaining the safety of New Hampshire's communities and citizens is the most important job of state government," said Governor-elect Hassan. "Chief Plummer's extensive background in public safety at both state and local levels will help ensure we are prepared for and able to respond quickly and effectively to any emergency that requires the resources of the state government. I thank Director Plummer for his willingness to accept this responsibility and look forward to working with him and Commissioner Barthelmes and the other members of Safety's team to continue to make New Hampshire a safer state."
Commissioner Barthelmes stated, "Since joining our management team, Director Plummer has quickly gained the confidence of my staff and me, and the fire and emergency medical service. His extensive experience at the helm during emergency situations in his hometown of Dover plus his ability to collaborate with a wide range of individuals and agencies, has prepared him very well to assume these duties. He has my full confidence."
As Acting Director of that Division, Plummer will oversee both the Bureau of Homeland Security, and the Bureau of Emergency Management which coordinates the state's response to major disasters, and also the homeland security function of planning and training for criminal and terrorist attacks. He will also serve as the state's primary contact with the federal Department of Homeland Security and counterpart emergency management agencies in the other 49 states.
"Director Plummer will continue to be the Director of Fire Standards and Training and Emergency Medical Services, providing oversight over the Division, and we are confident that the able staff of that Division will continue to provide the same excellent level of services to our first responders while the Director assumes these additional responsibilities," Commissioner Barthelmes said.


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Fowler racking up impressive stats early
SAN FRANCISCO -- Colorado Rockies center fielder Dexter Fowler has been keeping statisticians busy during his red-hot start to the 2013 season.
Fowler on Sunday against San Diego became the first player in Rockies franchise history to have at least one hit and score one run in each of his first six games in a season. He entered Monday night's game against the San Francisco Giants tied for third on Colorado's all-time list for consecutive games with at least one run scored to start a season.
Dante Bichette, now the Rockies' hitting coach, owns that record with eight.
"I guess these are all blessings," Fowler said before the game. "Good thing is they're good stats, not bad."
Almost all of Fowler's stats have been good over his first six games. Fowler entered Monday night's game hitting .370 with four home runs, seven runs scored and five RBIs. He had a slugging percentage of .852 and an OPS (on-base plus slugging percentage) of 1.266.
"I just tried to pick up where I left off last year," Fowler said. "I was blessed to be able to play all the season and not have that bad of injuries. So I can just build on the success that I had. I just want to go out and have fun. That's the key thing. When I start thinking too much and I start thinking about everything else, that's when God humbles you."
Rockies manager Walt Weiss said he believes Fowler "is going to play in some All-Star Games" someday.
"Dexter's just a great athlete," Weiss said. "He has surprised me with his power. I knew he had power, but he's got more power than I thought he had, not just due to the fact he's got four home runs already, but when you watch him take BP, he hits the ball a long way. He's a dynamic athlete."
Eric Gilmore is a contributor to MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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A MEMORIAL cricket match to remember a Worcestershire cricket stalwart who collapsed during a game will return to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.
Friends and family will gather once again for the match between the Fossils and Brian Howorth XI which will take place at Malvern Cricket Club on Sunday, September 14.
Andy Howorth set up the match in honour of his father Brian, of Napleton Lane, Kempsey, near Worcester, after the 69-year-old collapsed with a heart attack while batting for the Fossils at the club on Sunday, June 30 last year.
Brian was born in Worcester to Phyllis and Dick Howorth, an England and Worcestershire cricketer, and played for Old Vigornians, later turning out for Malvern, Kempsey, Birlingham and Ombersley as well as the Fossils.
Mr Howorth, from St Peter's, said his father liked to encourage younger people to take up the games and the family were delighted with the turn out at last year's match.
"Dad was very much into bringing younger people into playing cricket and would have it thought it was great.
"The game is just about having a great time and everyone is welcome."
Last year's event managed to raise £1,000 for British Heart Foundation.
"Brian was such a kind person and lived his life to the full helping others, especially when it came to cricket.
"Last year's event was a real success and many more players are planning to come out of retirement just to play in this match this year.
"It is hoped that this event will continue to grow for many years raising funds for the British Heart Foundation."
Donna Stokes, BHF community fundraising manager, encouraged as many people as possible to support the charity cricket match which promises to be great fun for everyone involved. By engaging in events like this, you are helping our life-saving and life-changing work to continue. We're fighting for every heartbeat but we can't do it without you."
Entry to the match, which starts at 1pm, is free.


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"MS and Your Feelings" – book blog discussion
I don't know if it is the fact that we've been reading Chapter Two, "Coming to Terms with MS" of Allison Shadday's book: "MS and Your Feelings," or some other causative factor, but whatever the reason, Chapter Two of this text seems to have already come up in our comments this week.
Every month, we take the last blog of the calendar to explore one chapter of this new release. I know that some of you are still having issues with delivery, so we're going slowly. Well, that and you've let me know that reading is difficult for some of you. Something tells me, however, that some of you are reading ahead. That's okay too. These monthly reviews allow you to refine your take on the chapters.
I hope all of you took advantage of the questionnaire in the 'Your Reaction' section. I find the workbook element of Allison's style very helpful.
Something that was on my mind as I re-read the chapter for this exercise was how many times we have to come to terms with MS. Especially in the early days of this disease (and I'm talking the first five or six exacerbations here), we go through the whole thing again and again.
Is it human nature to forget what we have learned in the past? Or are the words from that '70s song correct; "What's too painful to remember, we simply choose to forget."?
I'm not one hundred percent on board with the final section, "Living with Uncertainty." The way I cope is to answer as many of those "What if" questions as I can. Everyone copes differently and we have seen that in your comments to the "MS Voice" blog.
I do try to focus on the things over which I have some control. My mantra for the first year or so after diagnosis was: Control is an illusion. Working out those "what ifs," was a way of taking back some of that illusion.
Hey, we all do what we have to do.
Also important is beginning the process of involving your loved ones. Comments this week have spoken to that topic and its difficulties. We can talk about that in depth in the coming weeks.
I am wondering if it wouldn't be a good idea to jot down the 10 steps of Disease Acceptance to have around for easy access. I wonder if I'll ever be able to check-off each of these steps (or goals as Allison calls them). I wonder if I'll have to check them off more than once as the symptoms of my MS wax and wane.
I am wondering out loud to you, the Life with MS blog community because that's what we do here; we put out our thoughts together like intellectual capital and watch our investment grow.
If only my retirement stocks returned as well as my investments in you.
Wishing you and your family the best of health.


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WINTER PARK, Fla. – The Sunshine State Conference will be hosting a "Professional Women in College Sports" student forum on Thursday, January 26, at the Falcons Fire Country Club in Kissimmee, Fla.
Open to current SSC female student-athletes who are interested in pursuing a career path in college athletics, the event is the first of its kind for the SSC. The forum is being facilitated and moderated by Becky Ahlgren-Bedics, who spent nine years in the Educational Affairs Department at the NCAA. Ahlgren-Bedics was a member of the softball team at the University of Dayton.
A panel of four guest speakers who are former collegiate student-athletes with ties to the conference will address forum participants. Those panelists will be:
Kristen Migliano, Director of Athletics, Lynn University - In her fifth year as AD, Dr. Migliano played basketball at Lynn University.
Jen Seidel, Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance and Senior Woman Administrator, Florida Institute of Technology - Prior to joining the staff at Florida Tech, Seidel worked in the compliance department at Virginia Commonwealth University. She is a former member of the VCU soccer team.
Erika Brennan, Women's Golf Coach, Saint Leo University - Currently in her fourth season as the Lions' coach, Brennan was a golfer at Western Carolina University.
Jessica Hanson, Accountant, Georgia Tech Athletic Association - Hanson recently joined the staff at Georgia Tech after internships at the NCAA and the Sunshine State Conference. She played tennis and basketball at Transylvania University.
Mark McClenney, who has been the SSC's assignor of women's basketball officials for two seasons, will also speak to attendees.
Nearly 100 student-athletes are expected to attend from the SSC's nine member institutions. Attendees will participate in round table and breakout discussions and receive instruction on professional development. Lunch will be provided.
Any SSC female student-athlete who would like to attend the forum can obtain more information by clicking here.


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January 8 – Oman
(Written by Felicia Yu and photos by Ashby Leavell)
One wouldn't think that such a good time could be had in a garden that so far consists of a nursery, one planted habitat area, a variety of half-constructed buildings, and acres (excuse me—hectares) of untamed Omani desert landscape. But then, one wouldn't be that well acquainted with the Longwood Graduate Fellows, would one?
We spent the greater part of Saturday at the still-under-construction Oman Botanic Garden, the only such in the country and the largest in the region. Sarah Kneebone, head of education and interpretation, met us and kicked off an organized tour of all the operations of the garden that are up and running, plus some that are not, from seed collection and processing to propagation and planting, finishing with a brief overview of the garden's communication and interpretation plans.
Khalid, in charge of marketing, shows us the model of the finished garden.
We were immediately impressed by the high level of professionalism and planning that has gone into this project since its inception by the Sultan in 2006. The Oman Botanic Garden aims to be world-class, a regional leader in sustainability, a center for the research and conservation of Oman's native flora, and a place for the Omani people to learn about their natural and cultural heritage. With the financial and political support of the Sultan and a close partnership with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh to supply taxonomic expertise, OBG is well on its way.
Leila, the head field botanist, shows us some of the seeds filed away for future planting.
Among the many exciting features to be built in the garden by the time of its opening in 2014: a set of three enclosed biomes displaying all three seasons of Southern Oman's tropical rainforests simultaneously; a heritage village representing traditional Omani agricultural practices and plant lore, complete with opportunities for visitors to participate in traditional crafts as well as observe them; a research center with accommodations for visiting scholars; and separate interpretation centers for each of the different habitats to be planted.
The native landscape. 80% of the OBG's property will be kept as a nature reserve.
Built elements aside, OBG will eventually display all of the more than 1200 native species, ranging from rainforests in the south to gravel deserts around the capitol, Muscat. On our walk through the nursery facilities, it was all we could do not to stop at every different species to examine it and record its name. The horticultural staff at OBG is careful to document exactly how they grow and propagate the plants since nearly all are new to cultivation, with new species still being discovered during field seed collections.
Adenium obesum awaiting planting time, once the habitat area to which they belong is ready for landscaping.
In brief, we had a blast. After such a thorough, thoughtful tour of such an amazing project, we've come away with great expectations for the future of the Oman Botanic Garden, and we've definitely marked it on our mental lists of places to return to one day.
The ones who made it across the border, and OBG staff, including Khalid, Sarah, Leila, and horticulturist Ismail.


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The Dirties, My Name Is Faith among Slamdance winners
The festival organisers announced their winners on Friday [25].
Grand Jury Awards – Narrative
Grand Jury Sparky Award for Feature Narrative: The Dirties by Matt Johnson.
Special Mention: Joy De V., by Nadia Szold.
Grand Jury Awards – Documentary
Grand Jury Sparky Award for Feature Documentary: Bible Quiz by Nicole Teeny.
Grand Jury Sparky Award for Short Documentary: The Birdman by Jessie Auritt.
Audience Awards
Audience Award for Feature Documentary: My Name Is Faith by Jason Banker, Jorge Torres-Torres, Tiffany Sudela-Junker
Audience Award for Feature Narrative: Hank And Asha by James E Duff
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The Automaster Honda Has the New 2014 - 2015 Honda Models You're Looking for near Burlington
At The Automaster Honda, the search for a new Honda near the greater Burlington, Shelburne, Plattsburgh and Williston areas is easy. You'll find a critically acclaimed selection of new Honda Accord, Civic, CR-V, Odyssey and Crosstour vehicles ready to be test driven today. Feel free to peruse our inventory below. You can narrow down which model you're interested in, and even compare trim levels/features to see which specific one fits your needs.


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The entire list
New Information
Daily Comments
Azerbaycan Novoye Vremya, 6 October 2008
Presenter: What would you say about the global crisis throughout the world?
Adnan Oktar: NOTHING WILL HAPPEN TO TURKEY. NOTHING WILL HAPPEN TO TURKISH ISLAMIC COUNTRIES. ON THE CONTRARY, THERE WILL BE PROSPERITY AND ABUNDANCE IN THOSE PLACES. Here comes the age of abundance and prosperity Insha'Allah. By the leave of Allah we enter the Golden Age. Turkish countries will be happy, joyful and live in comfort. These crises are temporary indeed. They do not actually affect us but we of course do not want America be affected because of the crisis. We do not want the Christians to be in dire straits. We do our utmost regarding that Insha'Allah.
Cumhuriyet, 27 January 2011
The American professor of economics Nouriel Roubini stated that he is very hopeful about the economy of Turkey not only in the short term but also in the long term. Roubini said that the econoy of Turkey can be a link point between East and West.
Yeni Asya, 27 January 2011
Praise to the Economy of Turkey


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Safe in the Arms of our Lord. Rest in Peace, Sweet Baby.
Safe in the Arms of our Lord. Rest in Peace, Sweet Baby.
11 December 2008 — Orlando, Florida
On December 11, 2008, a meterman found Caylee remain in the wooded area across the way from Hidden Oaks Elementry School on 9051Suburban drive in SE part Orlando, Florida The body was found less than a mile from Caylee's home on Hopespring Drive.
14 October 2008 — Orlando, Florida
On October 11, 2008, Caylee's mother, Casey Anthony was arrested and charged with the murder of Caylee, eventhough Caylee was still missing at the time. Currently she is on trial for the murder of Caylee.
After Caylee body was discovered near Casey's home, the charge against her was up graded to murder in first degree, which must be scary for Casey as Florida is second only to Texas in number executions each year.
24 May 2011 — orlando, Fl
The Casey Anthony trial begun today and it started with bombshell that Caylee die in family pool and that Casey learned her sex education from her dad and brother!!!
3 July 2011 — Orlando, Florida
Today July 3, the lawyer are entering their closing augments. I took a photo of George and Cindy Anthony home, it was surround by the press. In addition, people are laying memories on the site where Caylee's body was found.
5 July 2011 — Orlando Florida
Well, the jury have clear Casey Anthony of murder charges. But she was found guilty of lying to the police about how Caylee dissappearred, and she will stay in jail for one more week and be released on July 17.
Are you for real? This girl was raised by two dysfunctional liars who manipulated her whole life, so it's no wonder she turned out the way she did. Both Casey and George are totally dominated by Cindy and George is so guilty in whatever role he played in it that he tried to kill himself. They don't know how the child died. The tape could have been to keep dirt and bugs out of her mouth. Who are you to decide there was no reasonable doubt?
Visit the web site change.org and sign the petition asking for a new law to make it a felony for parents or caregivers not to report the death of a child in a timely manner. This is something positive we can do for Caylee. May she rest in peace.
5 July 2011 — Orlando, Fl
On July 5, just hours after the verdic was read. People visiting the site where Caylee's body was found saw a lightning struck a tree about 20 feet from the site. Some people claimed this was a sign from the angels and story was shown in Orlando Sentinal
17 July 2011 — Orlando, Florida
Casey Anthony was released from Orange County Jail at 12:09 AM, 7/17/11. She was picked up by her lawyer Jose Baez and they left in his SUV. A very large crowd was gathered outside the Orange County jail. As the SUV goes by, some were saying "Good luck Casey" while some shouting "killer". Casey's whereabout is a mystery.
Two days earlier, people living along the Suburban Drive eracted a six feet high cross was eracted on the site where her daughter Caylee's body was found.
Anyone can contribute to this page. Please sign in or sign up—it's free.


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From the Rangers:
February 25, 2011 – New York Rangers 6, Washington Capitals 0 (Game No. 63, Away No. 33)
* The Rangers defeated the Washington Capitals, 6-0, tonight at Verizon Center to improve to 33-26-4 overall, including a 19-13-1 mark on the road. New York has now won four of their last six games.
* Henrik Lundqvist turned aside all 35 shots he faced to record his league-leading eighth shutout of the season, 32nd of his career, and improved to 25-20-4 overall with a 15-10-1 mark on the road. He is now tied with John Ross Roach for third on the Rangers' all-time shutouts list with 35 career shutouts (including three playoff shutouts).
* Erik Christensen registered a career-high, four points (two goals, two assists), including one power play goal, and posted a plus-three rating. His two goals also tied his career-high, last accomplished on April 7, 2010 vs. Toronto.
* Brian Boyle tallied two points (one goal, one assist), was credited with a game-high, five blocked shots, and posted a plus-three rating in 18:20 of ice time. His assist on Christensen's goal at 14:47 of the first period was his 30th point of the season, and his goal at 19:26 of the third period was his 20th goal of the season.
* Derek Stepan notched a power play goal, and added an assist on the game-winning goal in 15:18 of ice time. He has now registered six points (three goals, three assists) in the last eight games.
* Vinny Prospal recorded one goal, added a power play assist and posted a plus-two rating. He has now registered six points (three goals, three assists) in 10 games since returning from injury on Feb. 3, including five points (two goals, three assists) in the last seven contests.
* Steve Eminger opened the game's scoring with an even strength goal at 5:56 of the first period, and posted a plus-two rating in 17:35 of ice time. He is now three games shy of 400 career NHL games, and 10 points shy of 100 career points.
* Ryan Callahan tallied the primary assist on Christensen's power play goal at 4:19 of the second period to capture third star honors. He has now registered nine points (six goals, three assists) in 11 games since returning from injury on Feb. 1, including seven points (four goals, three assists) in the last six contests.
* Michael Del Zotto and Mats Zuccarello each registered an assist on Stepan's power play goal at 17:52 of the second period. Zuccarello is now ranked second on the team with seven power play assists, and has recorded eight assists in the last 12 games.
* Michael Sauer tallied the primary assist on Christensen's even strength goal at 14:47 of the first period, and has now registered three assists in the last five games.
* Matt Gilroy and Brandon Prust recorded one assist apiece for the Rangers. The Rangers improved to 6-1-1 when Gilroy registers a point, and are 15-5-1 when Prust tallies a point.
* Ruslan Fedotenko made his return to the lineup after missing the last 14 games following an appendectomy on Feb. 2 and a separated shoulder sustained on Jan. 19 vs. Toronto.
* The Blueshirts' practice schedule for tomorrow, Feb. 26, is 12:00 p.m. at the MSG Training Center.
* The Rangers will return to action when they face-off against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday, Feb. 27, at Madison Square Garden (1:00 p.m.), in the first game of a three-game homestand. The game will be televised live on MSG Network and can be heard on 1050 ESPN Radio and newyorkrangers.com.


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I know enough about appliances and products to know you are wrong on the quality, better do some research
What exactly am I wrong about? Am I wrong to say not all kilns are built the same? Is that what you're saying? It's hard to tell since you sound like an ad for Olympic Kilns. Yes, except for dimensions most firebrick are pretty much the same. You've already made it clear that you know that. So are construction bricks but that doesn't make every house the same. As Neil points out much better than I did, there are a lot of differences between kilns. And, as far as doing research, you may know toasters, but I've used almost every major American electric kiln made and repaired many of them and rebuilt a couple of them, so maybe it's you who needs to do the research. You could start by reading Neil's post.


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Family tree▼
Facts and Events
Rebecca Unknown: Biographical Information
Joe Weston and Rebecca Unknown were the parents of Albert Weston. Albert married the granddaughter of Adam Bennett. Adam Bennett was the enslaved overseer at Magnolia Plantation on the Ashley River, St. Andrews District, Charleston, South Carolina.
We would like to learn more about Joe, Rebecca and their family. If you have information and/or documents to share, please contact us! We will gratefully acknowledge your contribution.
Family Group Sheet
More Features
You can click on "More" then "Pedi-Map" at the top right corner of this page to view pedigree charts, maps, timelines, thumbnail images and more.
About This Page
This page is part of a groundbreaking research project to rediscover the family lineages of enslaved people on Drayton family plantations in Barbados and the United States. To read more about this historic research, please visit the article below:
Genealogy of Enslaved Communities on Drayton Family Plantations: A Research Project Sponsored by the Magnolia Plantation Foundation of Charleston, SC


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NEW YORK ( TheStreet) -- United Parcel Service ( UPS) is withdrawing its planned $6.9 billion acquisition of TNT Express after European union antitrust officials said they would oppose the deal. The deal's failure marks the second time in roughly a year that a U.S. corporate giant has been held up on merger efforts by EU lawmakers. In February 2012, antitrust officials in the European Union nixed a proposed $9.5 billion merger between stock exchange operators NYSE Euronext ( NYX) and Deutsche Boerse, a decision the German stock exchange called a 'black day' for Europe. In December, NYSE Euronext announced a merger with IntercontinentalExchange ( ICE), in a deal that will also face a EU antitrust review. According to Monday statements from UPS and TNT Express, after months of trying to negotiate asset sales and concessions that might alleviate antitrust concerns, the mail giants said they had made little progress. With a February deadline with the E.U. looming to reach acceptable terms for a deal, the merger fell apart. "We are extremely disappointed with the European Commission's position," Scott Davis, UPS chief executive., said in a statement. "We proposed significant and tangible remedies designed to address the European Commission's concerns with the transaction." As part of the deal's failure, UPS will pay TNT Express a 200 million euro termination fee. Meanwhile, the failed acquisition tempers the U.S. mail and shipping giant's international expansion efforts. Still, analysts see a silver lining from the termination of the proposed merger. Deutsche Bank analyst Justin Yagerman wrote in a Monday research note that UPS may now be able to return capital to shareholders and cut smaller sized acquisitions. "We are assuming that UPS uses an incremental $3 billion to repurchase shares and we would not be surprised if the company also uses capital to fund tuck-in acquisitions," wrote Yagerman, in a research report that raised UPS's price target to $92 from $83 a share. Shares in Atlanta-based UPS rose nearly 2% to $79.247 in Monday trading. Had the deal succeeded, UPS might have become the largest shipper in Europe, in a merger that could have grown its international mail delivery revenue and created significant cost savings. When the long-expected $6.9 billion deal was announced, JPMorgan analyst Thomas R. Wadewitz raised his UPS price target to $92 a share from $88 and moved his rating of the stock from "neutral" to "overweight." "We expect significant
earnings per share accretion in 2013 and 2014 from the TNT Express deal and we also view it as a strategic positive in terms of boosting UPS's global footprint," wrote Wadewitz in March. He forecasts that the deal will add 48 cents to UPS's 2013 and 2014 earnings per share, pushing this year's total to $5.75.


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I just returned from a field research visit to Kenya's Coast province. The hub of the province, the town of Mombasa, is a renowned tourist mecca and jumping off point for some of the most stunning beaches East Africa has to offer.
But outside downtown Mombasa, poverty is conspicuous and sprawling. I was visiting retail pharmacy chains, large hospitals, NGOs and small-scale providers and learning about the differences in the health needs of the population there compared with inland areas.
One unique and distinct barrier to accessing formal health services among the population in the Coast is an entrenched traditional belief system. For example, many low-income patients will consult a muganga, or witch doctor, as a first-line of defence when they are sick. The alleged medicinal concoctions offered by these mugangas are mostly bogus mixtures of powders and herbs that are typically useless and sometimes harmful. On top of that, the muganga will demand payment with the threat of a curse. Families have been known to sell their goats – prized assets – to pay muganga fees. Worse, some expectant mothers believe that their baby will be still-born if they do not consult a muganga during pregnancy.
A local doctor and I lamented that these practices continue to have a detrimental effect not only on his business, but more importantly on the population's health. If an individual is truly sick, mugangas will only serve to delay seeking effective treatment and could lead to complications. Further, muganga fees may send a family even further into poverty and leave them unable to seek additional treatment. Read more


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Norway's Government Pension Fund seems to have it all. Oil wealth, decent returns and a responsible approach to investment.
The decision to put part of its oil wealth to work for the country's pension pot is one that makes many pension savers in other parts of the world gnash their teeth in envy, particularly if they happen to live in a resource-rich country that has not invested its black gold in the same way, such as the UK.