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Little Ms. MarkerbySir Galahad©
My name is John d'Eaux, pronounced like the female deer. Please don't try to make a funny joke about it. I assure you, I've heard them all and they weren't funny the first time. My ancestors came from France. Leave it at that.
My folks died when I was little, leaving me to be raised by my Uncle John, a successful stockbroker and confirmed bachelor who hadn't a clue how to deal with an orphan dropped into his lap. Not knowing what else to do, he sent me off to the same boarding schools he had attended as a boy, and camps or chaperoned tours in the summer. We corresponded and telephoned regularly, and when we could get together he taught me many things. The best was how to play poker.
Not just the rules or the psychology, but the odds on turning up specific cards as each card is exposed in the many variations of the game, was what my uncle taught me. I was a fascinated pupil. I'd inherited his mathematical and logical aptitudes, the very things that made Uncle John so successful on Wall Street.
By the time I was a junior at my prep school I had acquired a reputation as a cold, calculating thinking machine at the poker table. I also acquired a Porsche, a professional grade stereo system, several Rolexes and Patek Phillippes, and most of the walking-around money of schoolmates that played the game with their hearts instead of their heads. I accepted their markers if they got in past their allowances, and they usually made good on them promptly. If they didn't, well, explaining to Pater and Mater what happened to the fill-in-the-blank was not my problem.
About then, Uncle John began arranging summer internships with various brokerages (not his) for me. I did the scutwork interns do, of course, but the practical education in how the stock market actually works was priceless. By the time I was eighteen, I knew enough to invest money wisely. When I graduated from Harvard (BS in Economics with a minor in Mathematics, summa cum laude), I was worth more than three million bucks and landed a job a couple of steps above what even an Ivy League grad could reasonably expect.
Work kept me busy for a number of years until my fortune reached take-off point. I quit work in the Street but didn't stop working. Instead of working for someone else, I went into the business of managing my own money. I continued to play poker when I could, mostly at casinos but from time to time with classmates and friends.
It was my skill at the poker table that propelled me into one of the most memorable episodes of my life.
One afternoon I got a call from Fast Eddie Phillips, a buddy who went back to the first day of private school. Eddie's one of my favorite people. He can call me anywhere, anytime for help and get it, no questions asked. This time, though, he was asking a lot.
"Johnny-boy, would you do me a big favor?" he asked.
"If I've got it, you've got it," I replied without hesitation. "What's up?"
"Burry St. Edmonds needs a fifth for a veddy, veddy impawtant poker game tonight. He's trying to close a big deal and needs to impress a couple of people. They're heavy hitters and they supposedly know their way around the table. I told him I'd be there and he asked if I would call and invite you. He doesn't know many good players he could ask for a favor like this.
"Will you come?"
Bradford St. Edmonds, called 'Burry' as a result of a failed prank that left him covered in stickleburrs, is not one of my favorite people. A trust fund baby, he'd never have made it into a top prep school or Harvard if he hadn't been a legacy, the scion of a family whose pedigree went back to before the Revolution. He'd been coasting on his connections all his life. He was the one I'd won the Porsche from, and I did not think much of either his manners or his morals. He had tried to weasel out of his wager, and had been very put out when I had insisted he sign the car over at once instead of waiting until the next quarter when he could pay me in cash out of dividends from his share of the family business. It should have taught him something, but Burry was a slow learner.
He was skinned in frat house games so often the brothers nicknamed him 'ATM.' I refused to play cards with him any more after one marathon session in which he lost $53,000 to me that he didn't have. It took the threat of having Uncle John speak to his father about the matter to get Burry to sign over voting stock in the St. Edmonds Company sufficient to cover his debt. Being caught short once in a poker game can be called a mistake, and twice is called a habit; but Burry had elevated habit to a way of life.
Playing cards with somebody like that is a trial at best, but a promise is a promise. I sighed.
"I'll do it because it's you asking me, Eddie, but I won't enjoy it. When should I arrive?"
At nine o'clock I climbed out of a taxi in front of Burry's townhouse in Washington Mews carrying a briefcase. The briefcase contained $100,000 in bank-wrapped bills in addition to the $20,000 I had in my coat. The chances were I wouldn't need anywhere near that much but one always brings cash to the table, even a game that is supposedly just friendly. I knocked on the door.
Burry opened it. "Johnny!" he cried. "Long time no see!"
"Long time," I allowed as he wrung my hand. He'd lost hair and put on weight since I'd last seen him five years ago, but what was interesting was the look of quiet desperation in his eyes. This deal had to be very important; a make or break the company deal, perhaps?
"Just give your coat to Li," he went on, motioning to a girl who stood silently just inside the inner door of the townhouse. I gave her a quick glance, then a slow second look.
She was Chinese, with an impudent uptilted nose. Her shining black hair hung straight to the middle of her back, cut square across in traditional Chinese style. Her eyebrows were plucked into perfect parentheses over almond-shaped green eyes and flawless pale gold skin. Her lips and long nails were painted bright scarlet and she wore a gold herringbone bracelet on each slender wrist. She was dressed in a translucent black dress that fit so closely it might have been sprayed onto her. Although covered, her breasts and nipples were clearly discernable beneath the taut fabric. Firm round buttocks were scarcely concealed as they tested the strength of the cloth over them, and although the treasure between her legs was hidden by her too-short dress while she was standing, I suspected she'd have no secrets when she sat down. Long, well-formed legs with small feet in black stiletto pumps completed the visual package that was Li.
Burry saw where I was looking and slapped me on the back. I loathe being slapped on the back.
"I know what you're thinking, Johnny! A vision! A nice little piece to keep around, right? I got her in California six months back; won her in a poker game as a matter of fact. She's the perfect maid. 'Fucking me in the bedroom, buttering up the master, puttering all around the house,' as the old song says," he leered, misquoting from A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.
"Interesting," I said, a touch of annoyance in my voice. The game hadn't even begun and Burry had already had one too many, unless he had evolved into an even bigger jackass than I remembered. Of course, to my way of thinking even one drink is too many if you're going to play serious poker. The irritation I felt with myself for coming in the first place transferred to Burry. From across the room, Eddie caught my eye and excused himself to the two men he was talking to in the corner, coming to my rescue.
"Burry, are we ready to play?" he asked tactfully. Our host, belatedly remembering that his guests were there for a poker night, motioned to his maid and walked through the archway into the parlor. Li undulated through my line of sight, gracefully following her master – if that is in fact what he was to her. Eddie led the way to the others and performed the introductions Burry should have made.
Daniel O'Malley ("And never Danny-boy, if ye don't mind"), six feet of craggy black Irishman dressed in Savile Row style, represented a group of Dublin investors. They were considering carrying the St. Edmonds line in their stores. I took note of his Oxbridge tie. P.G. Wodehouse's books notwithstanding, neither Oxford nor Cambridge is noted for graduating dummies. As befitted an Irish gentleman, his glass held Bushmills, neat. Altogether I figured him for a plunger, not a cardsharp; he had that look.
Zeb Walker, named for the man who had discovered Pike's Peak, owned a chain of specialty shops in cities from Abilene to Santa Fe. He was dressed in the height of Southwest style, right down to the string tie secured by the gold and silver steer's head slide over the Western shirt and the rodeo champion buckle on the belt that strained to hold his stomach in. Like O'Malley, he was considering adding St. Edmonds to his stores' stock. Smoking a cigar the size and color of a big goose turd and just about as foul-smelling, I noticed he was drinking Perrier with a twist. He looked jovial, but his smiles and chuckles never touched his eyes. I judged him to be as serious a competitor with the pasteboards as myself.
Fast Eddie's style of play, of course, I already knew. Playing with optimism for the turn of the next card or for the next hand, he relied on inspiration that might or might not show itself. Not a bad trait in a whist player, but a liability in a poker game. With Burry's hunch-playing, try-to-read-your-opponents kind of play in the mix, tonight's game looked to be more entertainment than enjoyment.
The table in the townhouse's game room was an antique that looked to have done time in a high-class speakeasy. A green glass-shaded overhead lamp accentuated the 1920s look of the room, and the seats were padded leather captain's chairs. A cashbox and a large rack of chips sat on a side table. Li discreetly took her place behind the built-in bar adjacent to the card table. Burry reached into his coat, opened the cashbox and dropped a banded bundle of greenbacks into it.
"Bank's open, gentlemen. Blues are hundreds, yellows are fifties, reds are twenties, and whites are tens. Help yourselves."
From the pile in front of Burry, he had staked himself to at least $10,000. Fast Eddie took a wad of bills out of his wallet and cashed in for the same amount. Walker frowned, took a roll of money from a coat pocket and tossed it into the box, helping himself to twice what Burry and Eddie had taken, mostly in blues. O'Malley matched Eddie and Burry with a $10,000 buy. I went last and purchased $20,000 worth of chips. Eddie waved Li over, telling her to take our drink orders. The Irishman motioned for a refill of his whisky; Burry and Eddie emulated him. Walker asked for another Perrier. I looked at the girl and requested a San Pellegrino with lemon, a Perrier with lemon if not, please. She bowed and retreated as Burry reached into the drawer of the side table and withdrew a fresh deck of cards, ceremoniously showing that the seal was unbroken. He opened the pack, tossed the box and the jokers into a conveniently placed trash can and expertly shuffled the cards.
"Shall we cut for deal, gentlemen?" he asked.
"No need," said O'Malley. "You start, and we'll rotate the deal clockwise from ye, if that meets with the approval of all here?"
The rest of us nodded. "Shall we open with a round of Texas Hold 'Em?" said Burry with a chuckle. The chuckle sickened and died as he looked at us. The expressions around the table ranged from mere annoyance to utter contempt.
"Five card stud, then?" asked Burry meekly. Hearing no objections, he dealt the cards and the game began.
For the next three hours, we played steadily. Each of us took the measure of the others. The poker varied from stud to draw and five-card to seven-card, with Burry's attempts to introduce exotic variations of the game being received with disdain by the rest of us. Walker was the big winner, I was not far behind him, Burry and O'Malley were well down, and Fast Eddie was nearly cleaned out. Li had been delivering drinks as called for and twice she had offered us a tray of nibblements ranging from small dishes of nuts to tiny skewers of broiled meats. I noticed that as far as she discreetly could she stayed out of Burry's reach, although this didn't prevent him from stroking a thigh or squeezing a buttock as she delivered the food and drink. His actions got less discreet as his alcohol consumption rose. I looked at my watch and stood up.
"Daniel," I said, it being his deal, "please deal me out of this hand. I hate to mix business with pleasure, but there is a phone call I must make. I won't be long."
"I understand," said O'Malley. He looked around the table. "In fact, I think we could all use a break. How say ye?" Nods, stretches and the pushing back of chairs answered him.
"Half an hour?" suggested Burry. Murmurs of agreement from everyone as we got up from the table, heading variously for the bar, the bathroom or the living room. Burry caught up with me in the hall a minute later as I considered where to go to make a private call.
"If you like, Johnny-boy," he said, slightly slurring his words, "you can use my study." I barely managed to restrain my tongue. The number of people who can get away with calling me 'Johnny-boy' I can count on my fingers with a couple left over, and Burry isn't one of them. However, perhaps by his standards he was being a gracious host.
"Lead the way," I said.
Burry's study was in gentlemen's club style, with heavy oak and leather furniture and bookshelves on the walls. It was similar to my own, save that mine was furnished with restored antiques and not with what to a trained eye were obvious reproductions. He motioned toward his desk, inviting its use. I accepted the offer of his chair, but pulled out my own satellite phone. It has signal encryption built right in and is about as secure as a portable phone can be. I didn't become wealthy by showing my cards to all and sundry. He cleared his throat before I could dial.
"Uh, Johnny," he began, awkward as a teenager caught with a bottle in his hand and the liquor cabinet open, "I need you to – do me a favor," he finished in a rush. He looked uncomfortable, as if he didn't want to be asking for whatever was to come.
"After the last time we played cards together, Burry, you aren't exactly in my good graces," I pointed out. "What kind of favor are you talking about?"
"Zeb says he wants to play real poker. High stakes poker. And I don't have that much cash available. I'm stretched thin at the moment. This deal I have cooking is important to the company and to me personally.
"Could you – would you back me to the tune of, say, a quarter-million?"
Whoa. This Walker character really meant business, in both senses of the word. I put my arms on the desk and steepled my fingers, staring at the oval defined by my thumbs and index fingers. It's a technique Uncle John taught me for concentration. I thought hard and looked up at Burry.
"I'll have your note of hand." It was not a request.
"But surely – "
"No buts. Here are the terms; take them or leave them. I'll accept your note and marker for $250,000, repayment without interest due by 4 P.M. tomorrow at my home, in cash or voting shares in the St. Edmonds Company. The note is for the money. The marker shall be Li.
"If you bring what you owe me by that time, I give you your note and the girl back. However, if you default by so much as one minute, Li stays with me and you will still owe me the quarter-mil plus ten percent. Fail to repay me in seven days, and I will take it up with the chairman of the St. Edmonds board of directors. I believe that is your father.
"It's your call. Write the note including the part about Li, and we have a deal. Or don't, and look like a wimp in front of Walker and the others. It makes no difference to me."
Burry looked at me, his face pale, little beads of sweat starting on his forehead. I looked back at him without expression. Eddie told me once this habit of mine when dealing with people, the cold eyes and the supernally calm voice, was why Wall Street traders had nicknamed me The Iceman. Burry pulled his desktop scratch pad to him, picked a pen from the vaseful on the desk and scribbled. He signed the paper, tossed down the pen, tore off the top sheet and spun it across the desk to me.
"This is a helluva thing to do to a classmate twice over and a frat brother to boot," he grumbled.
"Who has tried to stiff me twice before, you may remember," I reminded him. "I'm simply protecting my investment. I don't like welshers. Now, if you'll excuse me, I do have to make this phone call." Burry started to leave. I let him get to the door.
"Oh, and Burry?"
"Yes?" he asked, turning back to me, his face a study in mixed gratitude and resentment.
"Be so kind as to send Li in here, would you?" I heard his teeth grind as he closed the door behind him. I smiled and dialed.
A short time later, Li entered Burry's study. She waited, head down and hands crossed in front of her, as I completed my deal and ended the call. I looked at her.
"Has Mr. St. Edmonds spoken to you about your changed status?" I asked. She lifted her head and looked at me.
"Yes," she said softly in a pleasant contralto. "He says that for tonight, and until tomorrow afternoon, I am yours to do with as you like." She looked down at the carpet again. I got up from behind the desk and walked to her. I reached out and tipped her chin up, looking into her eyes.
"I will not do anything that you do not wish me to," I said. "I give you my word on that. Do you understand?"
Li responded by flowing into my arms and reaching up to pull my mouth down to hers. She sighed as our lips met, her arms tightening around me. Our tongues touched, the tips caressing each other, and she moaned against my mouth. The kiss turned hot as she pulled herself closer and moved her legs slightly apart. I responded by dropping my left hand to her tight ass, squeezing a handful of girl-flesh through the silk. She took her hand from my back and reached between us, caressing my rampant cock through the fabric of my trousers. I continued to knead her marvelous buttocks, but now with my hand under her dress. My free hand tangled itself in her hair as I broke the kiss and looked at her, her face flushed, her eyes hot and seeking.
"What do you want, Li?" I asked.
"Fuck me!" she whimpered. "I need to feel your cock inside me, splitting me open, filling me up! Fuck me hard like the whore I am! Please, please! Fuck your slut-toy!"
I led her to the leather couch in front of the fireplace and draped her over the back, her arms stretched out, her breasts struggling to escape the confinement of her dress. I popped them out so they hung free, inviting a man's hands to cup them and pinch the nipples engorged with hot blood, eager for a lover's touch. I flipped the skirt of the dress up over her ass so that it gathered at her waist and left her quim open for my inspection and stepped out of my trousers and boxers. She was naked under the dress. I ran my erect cock over the labia, gathering her honey-dew on it. Li moaned hoarsely with her need and pressed backwards. Using two fingers, I gathered more of her juices and anointed the head of my prick with them before I eased my way past her outer lips. Taking hold of her hips, I thrust forward, entering her.
"Yesss!" Li hissed as my ramrod parted her inner lips and sank deep inside her. I could feel her pussy muscles rippling around my penis as she responded to the prod filling her. She tensed as I withdrew and thrust back against me as I pressed forward again, this time sinking into her up to the hilt. "Aaahh, yes! Fuck me hard! Fuck me like an animal! Use me! Let me pleasure you!"


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Daily Courier Q&A: Mt. Pleasant's Ryan Ballew
Mt. Pleasant senior running back/defensive back Ryan Ballew has played a key role in helping the Vikings achieve a 10-0 record as they head into Friday's WPIAL Class AA quarterfinal playoff game against Beaver.
Ballew has rushed 47 times for 542 yards, an average of 11.53 yards per carry.
Q: How exciting was it to play a home playoff game last week against Valley?
A: It was a pretty good experience, and we all worked for it since the beginning of the year. I never got to play in a home playoff game, so it was exciting.
Q: Is there extra motivation heading into Friday's quarterfinal game against Beaver, knowing that Mt. Pleasant lost in the quarterfinals last year?
A: I think so. I think this year, if we want it bad enough, we can do anything. We can make it to Heinz Field if we put our minds to it.
Q: What's the biggest key to beating Beaver High School?
A: We all have to play our assignments and trust everyone else to do their job.
Q: Do you feel the intensity level ramp up with each game?
A: I think we notice it. We're getting better, and we keep trying to get better.
Q: What's been the key to Mt. Pleasant's run game?
A: (Running backs) Tyler Mellors and Brett Fess are very talented, and I think a lot of it is that our offensive linemen step up every week.
Q: How important has Mt. Pleasant's defense been during the season?
A: Our defense puts our offense in a lot of good positions by forcing three-and-outs. It just pulls through all the time.
Q: Do you have any pregame rituals or superstitions?
A: I don't believe in superstitions. As long as we prepare all week, we'll be fine on Friday.
Q: Is there any advice that you try to use regularly?
A: The coaches always say to practice hard. If we do it right, it will come together on Friday night.
Q: When you're not playing football, what do you enjoy doing?
A: I lift weights in the gym. I like to go hunting.
Q: What are your future plans?
A: I want to go to a four-year college. Law enforcement is something I'd like to get into. Hopefully, I'll get to play football.

subset: commoncrawl


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Hawaiian Decor Blogs
Find all your Beach Theme Home Decor in one convenient place. Select from Beach, Tropical, Hawaiian,.. Palm Tree and Seashell Decor plus Gecko Wall Art to bring the beach theme straight into your home.
Owner: PetraW
Listed in: Home-garden
Other Tags: beach decor, home decor, decorating, tropical decor


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Proximity Sensor with All-stainless Housing
|Sensing head size
Cylinder type
|Sensing distance
5 mm ±10%
|Setting distance
0 to 3.5 mm
|Operation mode
As of March 3, 2017
|Sensing head size
|Cylinder type
|Sensing distance
|5 mm ±10%
|Setting distance
|0 to 3.5 mm
|Differential distance
|15% max. of sensing distance
|Sensing object
|Ferrous metal (Sensitivity lowers with non-ferrous metals.)
|Standard sensing object
|Iron 30 x 30 x 1 mm
|Response frequency
|100 Hz (Average value)
|Power source
|DC Three-wires models
|Power supply voltage
|12 to 24 VDC (ripple(p-p) 10% max.)
|Operating voltage range
|10 to 30 VDC
|Current consumption
|10 mA max.
|Control output (Output type)
|NPN open collector
|Control output (Switching capacity)
|200 mA
|Control output (Residual voltage)
|2 V (Load current 200 mA max. with cable length of 2 m)
|Operation indicator (yellow)
|Operation mode
|Protective circuit
|Output short-cut protection, Output reverse polarity protection, Power supply reverse polarity protection, Surge suppressor
|Ambient temperature
|Operating: -25 to 70 ℃
Storage: -25 to 70 ℃
(no icing)
|Ambient humidity
|Operating: 35 to 95% RH
Storage: 35 to 95% RH
(no condensation)
|Temperature influence
|±20% max. of sensing distance in temperature range of -25 to +70 ℃
(As the basis for sensing distance of 23 ℃)
|Voltage influence
|±1% max. of sensing distance in rated voltage range ±15%.
(As the basis for sensing distance at standard power voltage)
|Insulation resistance
|Between charged parts and the case: 50 MΩ min. at 500 VDC
|Dielectric strength
|Between charged parts and the case: 1,000 VAC 50/60 Hz for 1 min
|Vibration resistance
|10 to 55 Hz, 1.5-mm double amplitude each in X, Y, and Z directions for 2 h
|Shock resistance
|1000 m/s**2 for 10 times each in X, Y, and Z directions
|Degree of protection
|Connection method
|M12 connector models
|Weight (Packed state)
|approx. 75 g
|Case: Stainless steel (SUS303)
Sensing surface: Stainless steel (SUS303)
Clamping nuts: Stainless steel
Toothed washer: Iron zinc plating
|Instruction manual
As of March 3, 2017
As of March 3, 2017
As of March 3, 2017
As of March 3, 2017
As of March 3, 2017
As of March 3, 2017
As of March 3, 2017
As of March 3, 2017
As of March 3, 2017
As of March 3, 2017
As of March 3, 2017
about this Product


text: (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) [ Top NFL Inside/Middle Linebackers By Steve Peloquin July 23, 2011 Who are the best inside and middle linebackers in the NFL? Read More Category: National Sports, Sports Tags: bart scott, nfl, patrick willis, ray lewis, san francisco 49ers, takeo spikes Send to a friend! Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Pin it! Reddit This! Share on Tumblr!


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The body of a man was found northwest of Marana Friday afternoon.
The body was found at about 2 p.m. near the railroad tracks just off Interstate 10 near East Camino Adelante Road and East Park Link Drive in Red Rock, Tim Gaffney, spokesman for the Pinal County Sheriff's Office, said in an email.
"There were no obvious signs of external trauma and no clear indications of foul play," Gaffney said.
The investigation is ongoing.


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We have spent two weeks at our favorite vacation-spot; the most lovely hotel Le Normandy Barriere in Deauville, France. Sunny days with tennis, golf, food and wine. What can make you more relaxed and happy than beautiful places and easy living? Hope you have a great time too! Photo: Mia Linnman.
Monday, 17 July 2017
Etiketter: My pictures, travel
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Consider, then, "Maneuver X." As modified to fit the current political environment, it would mean that Republicans remove all pressure. They should give Obama his debt limit increases without preconditions, and they shouldn't allow any government shutdowns.
Meanwhile, Republicans should use their majority in the House to pass bills that actually do address the nation's problems — its economic stagnation, rising energy and health care costs, mounting debt and so on. At the same time, they can keep blocking major new expansions of government.
This two-pronged strategy would allow Republicans to isolate Obama and establish themselves as the responsible ones. If he refuses to get serious about addressing the nation's debt problem, it will be a lot harder to escape responsibility if he can't point and say, "Hey, look over there, House Republicans want to blow stuff up."
In the unlikely event that this forces Obama to get serious about tackling the national debt, great. But if he doesn't, Obama's legacy will be that of a president who came into office promising to make the "tough choices" necessary to solve our nation's problems, then proceeded to duck them.


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I Get Little Cracks / Holes In My Fondant
Decorating By TashaFin Updated 9 May 2013 , 8:38pm by maybenot
Please could someone help. When I cover my cake with fondant, I get what looks like little holes, as well as cracks around the edge of the cake. I work my icing for ages to try to prevent this, but still having the problem. I find it is especially when I have coloured the fondant. You will clearly see in the attached photo what I mean - on the green fondant.
AWhat kind of fondant are you using? It looks like it's drying out before it gets on the cake. Try fondarific or Duff (fondarific with a different label) fondant since they take a long time to dry out; or work quicker ;) Also, there is such a thing as over-kneading fondant.


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How Is SEO Affected by Google's Authorship Markup?
Google has their hand in so many pies that it's hard to keep up with the latest wonders that they either create or contribute to. This week Google announced a new markup option called Authorship, and it has serious ramifications for SEO and potential opportunities for those who are writers.
The Authorship tag works by allowing developers (and the CMSs they create or utilize) to denote a specific author for each piece of content, with links to the author's page on the site. The author page, in turn, features additional markup that indicates what specific data is on the page. When Google is searched, it can display some of that data within the search results page, with links to the author's page, additional content from that author, etc.
For SEO, this may be able to help circumvent authorship questions. Previously, duplicate content is penalized--this may allow Google to tell where the content came from, with the penalty going to the site that duplicated the original content. It works out well for authors, as well as site owners/publishers.


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SDOT Wants Your Stairway Renovation Input!
Do you live in Seattle? SDOT is asking your input on stairway renovations for 2017. Take the Survey Monkey survey here, and get additional info on SDOT's stairway work and plans. Your survey must be completed before December 30th. (Images below are from the SDOT webpage.)


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Short sales surge as end of tax break nears
Updated 6:14 pm, Thursday, December 6, 2012
Homeowners and banks are accelerating sales of properties for less than the amount owed as a U.S. law that gives them a tax break expires at the end of the year.
The transactions, known as short sales, increased by 35 percent in the third quarter from a year earlier, while sales of bank-owned homes dropped 20 percent, according to a report today by mortgage data seller Renwood RealtyTrac. Together, they accounted for 41.5 percent of home purchases in the quarter.
Short sales have accounted for as many as 1.1 million transactions since 2009, helping to reduce the inventory of homes owned by banks that can blight neighborhoods and flood the market. Barring a last-minute extension of the 2007 Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act, homeowners will be taxed on the forgiven principal. With Congress focused on the so-called "fiscal cliff," federal spending cuts and tax-rate hikes set to kick in on Jan. 1, the law may not be extended, leading to a drop in short sales and a rise in foreclosures.
"If you're struggling to pay your mortgage, it's not likely you can afford an extra $25,000 or $35,000 tax bill to avoid foreclosure," said Edward Mills, a financial policy analyst at FBR Capital Markets in Arlington, Virginia. "Mortgage forgiveness has become part of fiscal cliff politics."
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The Internal Revenue Service typically taxes forgiven debt as income to the debtor. For short sales, the average price tag was $94,896 below the mortgage on the property, according to the RealtyTrac report. Tacking that onto borrowers' income would not only raise the amount of taxes due - it could push them into a more expensive tax bracket.
Short sales are better for the real estate market than sales of bank-owned properties, said Daren Blomquist, vice president at RealtyTrac. The average price for a short sale was $186,000 in the third quarter, compared with an average bank-sale price of $161,954, which was down 7 percent from the second quarter as empty homes lost value, Blomquist said. Bank-owned properties often are unoccupied for six months or more, while short sales result in new owners moving in directly after the purchase, he said.
"The tax break going away could really stifle the upward trend in short sales we've seen this year, and by extension some of the rebound we've seen in the housing market," Blomquist said. "People will shy away from agreeing to a principal reduction because they won't be able to come up with additional funds to pay a new bill."
Sales of homes in some stage of foreclosure accounted for 20 percent of all U.S. homes sales, the report said. The share was highest in Georgia, at 38 percent, followed by California, at 36 percent; Arizona, at 34 percent; and Nevada, at 31 percent.
Short sales of homes that weren't in foreclosure rose 17 percent in the third quarter, the data company said, without providing a number because the figure is based on a sampling of the market. Those sales accounted for 22 percent of all U.S. sales, and were the highest in Rhode Island, at 58 percent; Connecticut, at 47 percent; and Massachusetts, at 44 percent, according to the report.
Market data provided by Bloomberg News


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Some of my interests are connecting with interesting and unusual people, twisted senses of humor, motorcycling, nature photography, dancing, singing, cooking, going to awesome restaurants, learning about the world, intellectual discussions, parties, good science fiction, (I have strong opinions on what this entails, although it's easier to describe what it isn't, i.e. the character who can walk through walls via being 'out of phase', but inexplicably doesn't fall through the floor. Oh, and he can still breathe.) I also despise alarm clocks with the white-hot intensity of a thousand suns, unless I'm not the one who has to actually get up when it goes off, in which case I couldn't care less.
I'm vaguely disappointed that 'militant pastafarian' is not an option under the religious views section.
Cooking without recipes, particularly outside with fire. Biting satire, skiing, explaining complex concepts in relateable terms, motorcycle riding, all manner of technical pursuits, using the right word in context, and singing or so I'm told. I've never had the cojones to listen to my singing voice recorded. If it's anything like hearing my own voice on an answering machine I'm sure I'd be traumatized for life.
Anything James Bond in particular, and explosion porn generally, although it's nice if the plot isn't TOO mindless. My favorite saying regarding movies is that men prefer movies about many people dying quickly, while women prefer movies about *one* person dying slllooooowly. The original Total Recall The Princess Bride, Groundhog Day, Real Genius, Religulous, Idiocracy, the Avengers, Futurama, Family Guy, The Oblongs, South Park, The Daily Show, Moral Orel, Big Bang Theory, Lucy Daughter of the Devil, Invader Zim, and TED talks on Netflix.
Music-wise, electro-swing is my latest all-time favorite genre, and after a long period of frustration over being unable to find enough albums of it to buy, I'm thrilled to discover it's because there are dozens of hours of it available on free podcasts, thus viciously undercutting the commercial demand. Next problem, I now need more storage on my phone. #firstworldproblems. Chap-hop. Seriously, look it up, you'll be glad you did. The Wet Spots. Again, I recommend a web search. Brian Setzer, The Offspring, Boingo, Pink, Barenaked Ladies, Dave Mathews Band, Eve-6, Garbage, Nine inch Nails, Thomas Dolby, ZZ Top, Eminem, Tom Lehrer, and Frank Sinatra. (Unrelated side note: I think the spell checker should allow for British spellings. I will never de-program my brain from typing favourite instead of favorite.)
Sushi, Vietnamese noodle soup, Pad Thai, Dim-sum, Vindaloo, Spaghetti (I make a killer homemade sauce from scratch), Tacos, Coq-au-vin, Peruvian seafood soups, pupusas, cheesecake, apple fritters. Anything decadent. I love things spicy, crave variety, and am a card-carrying carnivore, although I've had to learn to temper this tendency and cultivate a relationship with salad in hopes of reducing my volumetric displacement. The list of things I don't like is actually considerably shorter, i.e. Haggis, German food, organ meats, overcooked vegetables and boiled meat. I also like to offend as many dietary sensibilities as I can, preferably in one sitting. Can I get the GMO bacon cheese vealburger with a side of foie gras and a poached bald eagle egg please?
I am discovering that I CAN in fact live without my PlayCube 360, although I'm still prone to occasional relapse.


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How much do Rolls-Royce employees make? Glassdoor has salaries, wages, tips, bonuses, and hourly pay based upon employee reports and estimates.
"must meet deductible before ins will pay"
"Good but no increase between 10-20 years. Can carry over 10days from year to year."
Rolls-Royce Salaries by Location
Check out the latest Rolls-Royce Jobs & Careers


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What - you've never had them before?
You're missing a treat. Seriously.
To find a full set of instructions, head over to the Hambly blog. Or, if you're here for my more or less idiot-proof biscuit/cookie recipe (delete as culturally appropriate), behold:
225g butter
175g sugar (I used brown, but caster is probably better here)
Pinch of salt
1 egg
2 tsp vanilla extract
300g plain flour
:: Cream together butter and sugar.
:: Beat in the egg, salt and vanilla essence.
:: Add the flour to form a smooth, soft dough.
:: Place in the fridge for 1-2 hours to chill.
:: Roll out on a flat, floured surface, then follow the cutting out/inserting stick instructions here.
:: Place on a lightly greased or good non-stick baking sheet.
:: Heat oven to 180ºC (160ºC fan oven / 350ºF / gas mark 4) and bake for around 10 minutes, until the edges are just starting to turn light brown.
Replace the vanilla with almond extract for a marzipan-ish taste, or with a few drops of orange oil if citrus is your thing.


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Abuja – The Federal Government has declared Monday and Tuesday next public holidays to mark the celebration of Eid-el-Kabir.
This was contained in a statement by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, Alhaji Sheidu Ozigis,
on behalf of the Minister, Abba Moro.
A copy of the statement was made available on Monday in Abuja.
The statement said: "President Goodluck Jonathan wishes to use this opportunity to urge all Muslim faithful to pray for enduring peace and progress of the country.
" Moro also wishes all Nigerians a pleasant Eid-el-Kabir celebration."


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I grew up in the action-figure bloated 1980s and had my fair share of toys based on Saturday morning cartoon shows [or vise verse] like Thundercats, Transformers, Go-Bots, Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends, and of course MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE. Or simply "He-Man" as it was known to me and my friends.
Years later -- after the fall of the rainbow-barfed Nineties and the dawn of the Internet Age -- I found out that He-Man was originally supposed to be a show about Robert E. Howard's CONAN. This of course got my imagination going back in time and retconning things. What if MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE had been MASTERS OF HYBORIA? And would it be all that different, given the same artists and writers involved?
One of the great things about He-Man is that it was full of really bizarro mooks -- some that existed only in toy form -- like Beastman, Merman, Stinkor, etc., etc. They feared and revered Skeletor -- who was some kind of buff blue lich.
Imagine if the creative content of PETTY GODS inhabited He-Man's world of Eternia. There'd be all kinds of Skeletors. What would their henchmen be like?


text: I'm an Internet whiz kid with an eye for the good stuff. I'm looking for exciting and fun things on the Internet that can inspire people to make the world a better place for all of us, not just some of us. I'm a political junkie, storyteller, feminist, and pop culture addict — follow my thoughts du jour on Twitter or join me on Facebook.


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10 Biggest Entrepreneurs Under 30
Creating a successful company to make millions before your face gets wrinkled and your hairline starts to recede (well… at least for most) is what these entrepreneurs are all about. Meet 10 entrepreneurs who are booming with business in expert time.
Source: Masters In Marketing


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The BBC's Amman correspondent, Jon Leyne, examines the possible motives and repercussions of the attack.
What do we know about who might have been behind this attack?
The interior minister has said it is not known yet whether the gunman was acting alone or was part of a wider group.
The man they arrested is from Zarqa, the hometown of the notorious militant Abu Musab Al-Zarqawi. Zarqawi was killed in Iraq in June, but still has some supporters in Jordan.
The gunman could have been part of what is now broadly known as al-Qaeda. It is also possible he was acting alone - as the security services in Jordan tend to have good information on most Jordanian militants acting in groups.
What reaction has there been?
Most people in Jordan would condemn an attack such as this. However there is deep frustration at Western policy in the Middle East.
Most recently, many people were very critical of the Israeli military action in Lebanon, and feel their government is too strong a supporter of the United States.
What is the level of the terror threat in Jordan?
The threat is high, with checkpoints in many places, and guards on most tourist hotels.
The last attack was in November, when 60 people were killed in a series of suicide bomb attacks in Amman.
Apart from that, the country has mostly fended off the terrorist threat in recent years despite its precarious position in the middle of this troubled region.
What do we know about the impact of terrorist attacks on day-to-day life and the economy?
The impact on day-to-day life is not so great. Anecdotally, however the tourist industry has been badly affected this year, as much by the war in Lebanon as the general terrorist threat.
Are there suspected links between terrorists in Jordan and Iraq?
Those who carried out the attacks in Jordan last November were all thought to be Iraqis.
Monday's attacker, according to the government here, was Jordanian.
The Iraqi conflict is also part of the wider discontent that inspires militants here.
Most Popular Now | 56,514 people are reading stories on the site right now.";


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Celebrity Resolutions: Health and Fitness Goals for 2012
Courtesy of Allergan
Christina Hendricks, AMC's Mad Men
"I think balance in life is the key to good health. My goal in 2012 is to maintain balance by finding time to give to others. This year I partnered with LATISSE through the LATISSE Wishes Challenge campaign to raise funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation to grant wishes for children with life-threatening medical conditions. To keep my body feeling balanced, I vow to stay rested by sleeping at least eight hours (or more!) every night."
Jennifer Hudson, Oscar winner and Weight Watchers spokesperson
"My goals for 2012 are simple — continue to live a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious foods and exercising regularly. The tools and support that the Weight Watchers PointsPlus program provides has helped me do that, and has given me the opportunity to really make a difference. I am a true advocate for living a healthy lifestyle, and I hope to set an example that inspires others to make the same changes that I did. If I can do it, anyone can!"
Click here to find out more about the Weight Watchers PointsPlus program
Samantha Harris, Entertainment Tonight correspondent
"With a preschooler and a baby, I hope to find a way to get to bed earlier so that I can spring up with more energy each morning when my kids wake up. I also want to be better with taking weekend walks with my husband and our girls."
Don't let a busy schedule get in the way of your workout — here are 10 ways to squeeze in a quick sweat session
Getty Images
Melania Trump, model and jewelry designer
"I want to have fun while working out. I love to play tennis but sometimes my schedule doesn't allow it, so I've started to run on the treadmill instead to catch up on the news. I also want to maintain my healthy diet. My most recent healthy obsession is to make myself an energy-boosting smoothie in the morning. I mix banana, ground flax seeds, liquid omega-3, vitamin D, lemon, fat-free yogurt, and orange juice to start the day off right and fill me up."
Get more healthy and refreshing smoothie recipes to start your morning
Andrew Evans/PR Photo
Kimberly Perry, The Band Perry
"Since time is precious, my fitness goal is to keep combining workouts and quality time. Spending time with family and friends while jogging, doing a Zumba DVD, or any other bonding activity that is good for your heart in more ways than one."
Darren Tieste
Kym Johnson, Dancing with the Stars
"I'm not going to sweat the small stuff. I want to make sure I can focus on life outside of work and make more time for my friends, my loved ones, and myself. The older I get, the more I understand that balance is the key in life."
Courtesy of DRIVE4COPD.com
Danica Patrick, Pro NASCAR and IndyCar Driver
"This year I want to help others get healthy through my work with DRIVE4COPD, raising awareness of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and encouraging people to get screened in honor of my grandma, who died from the disease. Moving to NASCAR full time in 2012, I hope to continue to raise my fitness level for racing. Driving requires a balance of strength and endurance. To stay strong, I'll have to lift weights, run for cardio, practice yoga, and make sure to really challenge myself during every workout."
John Paschal, JPI Studios
Arianne Zucker, NBC's Days of Our Lives
"I want to stay lean and trim, and not to skip weight training because I don't have the time! My goal is to do a full workout at the gym two days a week and hike another two days for cardio. I'm also making it a priority not to stress out if I can't reach that goal every single week. Guilt is a waste of time!"
Courtesy of Josie Maran Cosmetics
Josie Maran, actress and supermodel
"I'd like to really focus on fitness in 2012 by mixing it up between high-energy dance classes and getting outside in nature. Nothing beats a good hike on a sunny trail. I also want to maintain a balance in my life. I'll focus on exercising and eating right but will also remind myself that it's okay to sleep in and have a slice of pizza every now and then."
Kelly Stables, TV Land's Land of the Exes
"I want to keep it up this year. I have a great personal trainer and follow the three key ingredients to staying healthy — strength training, cardio, and good nutrition. I also want to mix it up my routine with hiking, yoga, jogging, going on walks, playing softball, and doing Pilates."
Scott Nathan
Daya Vaidya, CBS's Unforgettable
"In 2012 it's all about flexibility, strength, and endurance. Since I gave birth to my daughter, my flexibility has really decreased and because I am continuously carrying her, my shoulders are starting to round. I've noticed that if I find a few moments throughout my day to take three deep breaths, it actually improves my posture. Picking up a tip from years of dancing, expanding your rip cage and breathing from your diaphragm also makes you stand up straighter! For endurance I jog regularly, but want to increase the amount of time I stretch and add in a couple of days of yoga."
Looking to shed the baby weight? Try adding these moves to your workout!
Leslie Hassler
Bree Williamson, ABC's One Life to Live
"I would love to cut out refined sugar. I also want to get better at juggling a consistent workout schedule and spending time with my baby. It seems I am either feast or famine when it comes to working out and, as my amazing trainer Maria Fuenmayor tells me, consistency is key!"
Jeffrey Mayer/Wire Image
Kelli Giddish, NBC's Law & Order: Special Victims
"I would love to run a marathon in 2012. I think it's time, especially since I've run half-marathons. I also want to be able to do more pull-ups than my co-star, Danny Pino."
Train for a 5K, 10K, or half marathon of your own with our training plans to get you to the finish line
Craig Sjodin/ABC
Julie Berman, ABC's General Hospital
"I like to set reasonable fitness goals so I'm more likely to keep them. One will be to drink more water. There's such a huge difference with my skin, appetite, and mood when I remember to stay hydrated. It's such an easy addition to my day, so there's no reason I shouldn't be able to make this a new habit."
Originally published on FitnessMagazine.com, December 2011.


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Style: 33947433 Colour:
American made long sleeve seamless layering tee with a plunge V-neck.
Love.. but material is not durable
I got this top in the ballet and absolutely loved it. I love the snug fit and how soft it is. The color is very pretty as well. Also it is very low, hence the name, but I would not recommend this to someone who isn't comfortable with cleavage.The only thing is the first time I wore it, it began to pill on the arms, upper back and chest area. I would give this 5 stars if it hadn't started to deteriorate so quickly :(
Poor Quality
First time I wore this very cute top, it started degrading. The top became all picked and snagged. I really like this top, I just wish the quality was better... Definitely not buying again if the material is the same. It would only last a week tops.
Overpriced & snags easily
This us a basic too and for the price is a lot if money,sleeves are really long & as flattering as it is I will be returning as i didn't expect this material,why make a 'basic' for such a high price that will damage so easily!It's such a easy top ti snag or pull.would have loved to be a big cheaper & different material as the colour choice/rangeis amazing.
Ivory is totally see-through
I love the fit and flattering neckline of this top, but I should've chosen another color. I like to go without a bra, but you can totally see through the ivory! I think I should've expected that. Otherwise, the quality is just as great as all the other Intimately seamless pieces. I especially love how long the sleeves stretch to be.
Best top I've ever bought
This shirt looks SO good on! I ended up going with a XS/S and was worried it would be a little too small, I'm a 34D so I wasn't sure if I would be spilling out of it. The first thing I noticed was how stretchy this shirt was, it fit perfectly! I was also worried about the neck line being too low, but it was just right. The perfect amount of cleavage shows. I highly recommend this top and will be buying probably 5 more. Not exaggerating!
Hit or Miss- Depends on the color
I would have gave this top 5 stars if I was just rating the Pale Blue or Black tops that I got, but the Heather Gray top i got bumps it down to 4 stars. The Black and the Light Blue fit well, they are tight (maybe a tiny bit loose in the waist, could be a little bit tighter) with soft, stretchy fabric and a flattering low V. The Heather Gray however is a thicker less soft fabric and doesn't fit quite right. It's a little loose in the upper arms/shoulders which makes the neckline sit weird and the waist is loose and not as fitted as the black and light blue.
seamless solid deep v; black; size m/l
I'm usually a size small in tops, but always get a m/l in these FP stretchy/form fitting tops that come in the xs/s and m/l sizing options. These kind of FP tops are always really form fitting/sexy/flattering, but do fit very snugly like a glove. I really love the quality of the material of this top--it is so thick and durable, while also being really stretchy. I have to be careful how I wear this top though--the neckline reallyyy plunges, exposing a ton of cleavage. I may leave it like that if I want to be really sexy, but tend to layer a cami underneath most days.
I've finally worn out a favorite black, long-sleeve stretch "dancer top" that I bought from FP in 2006, so I ordered this shirt as a replacement. I am usually a "small" in FP but since I've recently been exercise-challenged, I bought this shirt in both the small and the med/large to see which was more flattering to wear by itself. FP shipped the small first and while I was thrilled about the fabric (very stretchy and, as other reviewers have noted, thick enough so as not to be too unforgiving), I found that it was just too low-cut--just in trying it on, I had to keep picking at it to keep it over my bra line, and I felt like one false move and I was in for a huge embarrassment. Assuming that the med/large would only be even more low-cut, I figured I would be returning both shirts once the second shirt arrived. For some reason I decided to try the med/large on anyway when it came. I am so glad I did--it looks more like the model on me. I had just assumed that the neckline of the larger size would fall much lower, but I think I was just "busting out" of the small. Also, I suspect the design may be so good that the neckline adjustments by size have taken into account the fact that larger people may not be flat-chested. I did not notice any other fit differences--the med/large shirt is not otherwise too big, but there is a *lot* of stretch in this shirt. It seems sturdy, is definitely versatile and is one of those FP finds in which both the price and quality are right. I say go for it if you don't mind a bit of cleavage (I don't consider it over-the-top for my age).
Perfect layering piece
This top is great. I thought it might be too tight, showcase every lump and bump, but it's strangely forgiving. I think it's because the material is fairly thick. It looks great under vests and coats but also on it's own. The V is not as deep as I feared, with the right bra it's fine, not too revealing. I would like more of these, great staple in ones wardrobe! For sizing I got the xs/s I am 5.6" 125 lbs 34 c.
I love tight long sleeved shirts like this for fall, so I ordered in in XS/S and it didn't disappoint! It's tight but stretchy, the bust is definitely low but nothing I'm uncomfortable with. Great staple for your closet. For reference, I'm 5'6", 130 lbs, and 28F bust.


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Stephen Paulus
When Music Sounds
Stephen Paulus
When Music Sounds
To order hard copies of this work please order from our partner distributor, Subito Music, see links below:
Instrumentation: SSAATTBB Chorus, a cappella
Duration: 4:00 Minutes
Commissioned by: Commissioned for VocalEssence and Chorus America in honor of the 2012 Chorus
America Conference, by Classical Movements, Inc. as part of the Eric Helms Music Program.
Premiered by: Chorus America National Conference Opening Concert, Sigrid Johnson, conductor
Copyright 2012
Publisher: Paulus Publications
Text author: Walter de la Mare


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If you're a regular reader of this Saving Money blog, you already have your frugal-but-fun reception costs down for drinking and music. But there's one more thing that will eat up your reception budget: the food.
Your guests will probably be hungry after dancing the night away, so give them what they want without going broke.
Let the good times roll
"Right now, food trucks are hot," says Jodi Furman, owner of the LiveFabuLESS blog. So why not roll one in for your wedding?
Depending on the food truck, upscale burritos, barbecue, sushi, burgers or pasta can be all yours for about $15 to $25 per guest instead of a four-course meal, which could reach up to about $100 per person, Furman says. "It's a way of having more personality and more funk but doesn't cost a lot of cash."
You can also opt for a catered buffet, which is something Brittany Renkel, a frugal bride in Mississippi, did for her wedding in October 2010.
"We wanted to do a down-home, laid-back thing," Renkel says. "Instead of doing something fancy, we made it a little more casual with barbecue."
The DIY reception
Working on a $10,000 budget for her wedding, Renkel and her fiance saved on reception costs by buying disposable plates, cups, forks, knives and all the beverages from a warehouse store. She approached a barbecue restaurant that had never catered a wedding before -- but in this case, it worked in her favor. The restaurant was excited to delve into a new type of service it could offer, and the owner cut her a deal.
Furman points out that if you plan to bring your own supplies for your reception -- food, drinks, tablecloths, etc. -- get that agreement in writing with the venue.
After bloating your guests on all the ribs they can eat, you know you're dying to smear some cake on your new spouse's face. But how much do you want to spend doing this? Couples can save by opting for cupcakes, which are usually about half the price of a cake.
In hindsight, Renkel says, she should have opted for a less expensive dessert. She suggests buying the cake from a grocery store that has a nice bakery and has experience making wedding desserts. "No one's going to know where your wedding cake came from," she says. "Don't waste money on stuff that's trivial."
If having a more expensive sit-down dinner is important to you, says Kristin Koch, senior editor of WeddingChannel.com, you can simply cut a course from the meal or you can trim your guest list. It'll give you more room in the budget to spend on food -- or more money to roll in a food truck for a late-night snack or dessert.
"If you trim your guest list 10 people, you're going to use one less centerpiece and you' re going to need to rent one less table and use 10 fewer chairs and 10 fewer favors," she says. "It completely adds up."
What have you done or plan to do to get gourmet wedding food for a fraction of the cost? Tell me in the comments section!
Follow me on Twitter: @KimSavesMoney.


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Interior Design Media
Janice has guested on national TV demonstrating her plantscape design expertise. She has also created videos for websites to showcase her talents and share her knowledge.
Learn more about Janice by clicking through the links below to watch the videos and read the articles written about the installations she has designed.


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Starting in November 2013 in a forest in Rwanda, where a modest spring spouts a trickle of clear, cold water, Levison Wood set forth on foot, aiming to become the first person to walk the entire length of the Nile. He followed the river for nine months, over 4,000 miles, through six nations - Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, the Republic of Sudan, and Egypt - to the Mediterranean coast. Like his predecessors, Wood camped in the wild, foraged for food, and trudged through rainforest, swamp, savannah, and desert, enduring life-threatening conditions at every turn. He traversed sandstorms, flash floods, minefields, and more, becoming a local celebrity in Uganda, where a popular rap song was written about him, and a potential enemy of the state in South Sudan, where he found himself caught in a civil war and detained by the secret police.
An inimitable tale of survival, resilience, and sheer willpower, Walking the Nile is an inspiring chronicle of an epic journey down the lifeline of civilization in northern Africa.
©2015 Levison Wood (P)2016 Tantor
The book was interesting with regard to the geography the Author walked. Finding out what happened to the people who helped him would have been good.
"Beautiful story"
An unveiled view of the peoples along the nile. Feels as if you're walking alongside Levinson Wood as he triumphs over his obstacles. recommended read!
"Great adventure for an armchair traveler"
Subject reminded me of the nineteenth century stories of entering darkest Africa. Am amazed that Mr Wood was not robbed nor hurt by the climate and terrain. I was expecting more confrontations with wild animals (is Africa snake free now?) His fortitude and bravery are to be admired.
"Fascinating story."
Yes, absolutely. I loved the story, especially the historical and cultural details and already relistened to many passages, not to miss anything.
It felt very real, alive, I could imagine Africa in a way I could not before and it made me read more, search out more about the continent.
I enjoyed his lively presentation. It brought events closer than just reading the book, I think.
I would have liked to, but did not have the time in one sitting. Also, it would have been a pity do be done in only one sitting, I felt like extending the listening time, didn't want it to end.
I highly recommend the book.
Loved it! The awe and lament of this man's journey is perfectly depicted by perhaps the best narration of which I have ever had the pleasure of listening. From the start I felt as though I blazed the walking trail with Levison. The descriptions are so well articulated I have come away with a whole new perspective of life. Thank you, Levison Wood. Your journey has changed me.
Reading allows me to travel through time; to visit the world's unique and stunning places. To become somebody I am not... It is glorious.
"Disappointed. It doesnt live up to the comparison"
I bought this book on a whim after reading The Emerald Mile by Kevin Fedarko. That book was full of intriguing bits of history and huge, impactful tales of adventure. I read the entire book over the course of two days and was sad to see it end. Throughout the reading I found myself imagining myself to be a great adventurer who could shoot the rapids right alongside the men in the book. So, I saw Mr Wood's book with its captivating cover and immediately bought it. I really wanted to love it the same way that I loved my adventure through the Grand Canyon. I wanted this book to inspire me to dream of walking the Nile. I wanted to feel the danger, learn the history and dream of the bold and thrilling walk taken by Mr Wood. Unfortunately this book did not stand up to the comparison. For me it felt more like a journal than a novel. I realize that it is nonfiction and is told chronologically, but it doesn't tempt me to walk the Nile. It doesn't prod me to buy more books on similar subjects. This book doesn't scream at me from its place in my library to be read again or to be shared with friends. It also doesn't make me angry that I wasted my precious reading hours... so I guess, in my opinion, it is a comfortably average book.
"scrambled eggs"
The only problem I had was when Lev has suggested that when you break the eggs you make an omelette. Boston sure knew you can make scrambled eggs too but Lev insisted on omelette. It was all part of the joke though....
"Interesting story"
I found it a very interesting story, giving a mixture of real in depth information and an amazing adventure. Well read too!
"A good listen, but the himalayas is better"
I bought this audiobook after listening to walking the himalayas, another great story but not quite as good in my opinion as his later adventure, also in the other book he reads it which I feel is much better
Report Inappropriate Content
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Holgorsen and staff will return to WVU
MORGANTOWN — West Virginia athletic director Oliver Luck ended speculation about the future of football coach Dana Holgorsen on Tuesday by announcing the entire coaching staff would be retained for 2014.
The Mountaineers posted a 4-8 record this season.
"I strongly believe in our coaching staff, including the work that our strength and conditioning staff is doing," Luck said in a prepared statement. "In my opinion, continuity is the key ingredient that will bring our football program back to the high level that Mountaineer fans expect."
Luck, however, threw down the gauntlet, saying "We simply must get better."
Holgorsen's contract runs through 2017, but Luck did not address the future beyond next season. Luck admitted he is disappointed with the results this season, including blowing a 31-7 lead against Iowa State in the season finale.
It would have been difficult to fire Holgorsen amid the current climate at the university.
WVU president Jim Clements has announced he's leaving for Clemson at the first of the year and the search for his replacement has just begun. An interim president is expected to be named this week.
Firing Holgorsen also would have cost $11.3 million in yearly salary because Holgorsen's contract does not contain a buyout clause.
Since winning the first five games in 2012 and climbing as high as No. 5 in the national rankings while quarterback Geno Smith emerged as the early frontrunner for the Heisman Trophy, Holgorsen's Mountaineers have won but six of 20 games.
This season, a rebuilding year, retained some early hope when West Virginia lost by just 16-7 to Oklahoma and upset Oklahoma State.
But the season rapidly deteriorated thereafter. No one took charge at quarterback and the defense was ravaged by injuries.
The Mountaineers failed to reach a bowl for the first time since 2001.
"We have high expectations at West Virginia University for success on and off the field and as Coach Holgorsen has acknowledged to me, we are not meeting those expectations on the field," Luck said.
"Coach Holgorsen and I met at length and reviewed this past season. We discussed the coaching staff, recruiting, player development, strength and conditioning, academic support and facilities. In short, all the components that make up a successful program. We are working diligently to improve our capabilities in all of these areas."
Holgorsen was unavailable for comment.
West Virginia fans and donors expressed strong — but split — opinions on whether Holgorsen should be given time to see program through. He inherited the head coaching job from Bill Stewart in a unusual transition.
Holgorsen was brought in as a coach-in-waiting for a year, but was given the job when Stewart was accused of trying to undermine him.
Not long after losing the job, Stewart died of a heart attack while golfing with former athletic director Ed Pastilong.
Luck made it clear he expects improvement next season and that excuses would not be acceptable.
"We had plenty of challenges this season. Nonetheless, we should not and will not use those as excuses for our performance. We simply must get better."
Luck said all the support necessary will be offered to Holgorsen, including in the area of facilities. Holgorsen has called for an upgrade in that area, including enlarging and modernizing the team meeting room in the Puskar Center changing the grass practice field to turf and building a new indoor facility to replace an undersized one that Holgorsen seldom used.
"Coach Holgorsen and his staff are on the road recruiting this week, securing the future for a successful Mountaineer football program. We need to do our part as well by continuing to move forward with the facility improvements needed to compete at the highest level in our conference," Luck said.
"We have high expectations for the 2014 football team, and I have shared those with Coach Holgorsen. He and his staff are eager to get started to prepare for our opening game against Alabama. We are well aware that we have a lot of work to do. "
Bob Hertzel is a freelance writer.


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Bow Peep by Gina Bonomo
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Bow Peep
This pattern is available as a free Ravelry download
This is an adorable and fast knitted baby sweater using only 1 skein of yarn. Knit on size US11, it is knit all in one piece and then folded over with minimal sewing. Have to go to a girl baby shower tomorrow? No problem… get some ribbon or a couple of buttons, a few hours knitting, and you've got the cutest baby sweater on the block. Nothing fussy.


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This document describes the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) compatibility with Cisco Transport Controller (CTC) in ONS 15454 and 15327. This document also demonstrates the download and installation of the JRE on the PC.
Cisco recommends that you have knowledge of these topics:
Cisco Transport Controller
Cisco ONS 15454 and 15327
Note: If you use version 3.4.0, or an earlier release of Cisco ONS 15454 System Software, Cisco recommends that you download the modified Java Policy, and run the relevant java script. In order to do so, you must be a registered user. Complete these steps:
Go to the Cisco Software Download (registered customers only) web page.
Scroll down the page, and click the JavaPolicyInstall.zip link. The Software Download page appears.
Click the JavaPolicyInstall.zip link. The login dialog box appears.
Type your user name and password to log in. The File Download dialog box appears.
Click Open. The zip file opens.
Click JavaPolicyInstall.exe to start the installation.
The information in this document is based on these software and hardware versions:
The information in this document was created from the devices in a specific lab environment. All of the devices used in this document started with a cleared (default) configuration. If your network is live, make sure that you understand the potential impact of any command.
Refer to Cisco Technical Tips Conventions for more information on document conventions.
CTC software is preloaded on the XTC cards for the ONS 15327 and on TCC2/TCC+ cards for the ONS 15454. Therefore, you do not need to install software on the XTC or TCC2/TCC+ cards. In order to use CTC for the ONS 15327 or 15454, your computer must have a web browser with the correct Java Runtime Environment.
These tables show the compatible matrix for the ONS 15454 SONET, ONS 15454 SDH and ONS 15327:
Complete these steps to download JRE from the Sun Microsystems web site:
Open a browser window, and type http://java.sun.com/products/archive/ in the address bar to go to the Sun Microsystems web site.
Select the JRE release through the corresponding dropdown list.
Click Go (see Figure 1).
Select the Download link in the JRE column (see Figure 2).
This link displays a secure page where the JDK License agreement appears.
Select Accept the agreement to continue.
Select JRE, on the basis of your platform to start the download process. Figure 3 shows the JRE download option for Windows (all languanges, including English), Multi-language.
Complete these steps to install the new version of JRE:
Run the file you just downloaded.
The JRE Setup process launches. The JRE license agreement appears (see Figure 4).
Read the agreement, and if you agree, click Yes.
Install JRE to the suggested directory, and click Next (see Figure 5).
Select the browser you use (see Figure 6).
The JRE installs. When the installation is complete, the installer exits automatically.


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Imagine being able to fend off an attacker using a laser saber. It immediately calls to mind Star Wars, right? Well, while laser sabers are not essentially the same as "lightsabers" wielded by the Jedi and Sith from the said franchise, they pretty much have a similarity in their use of lasers as a way to keep yourself from harm. For instance, you use laser sabers with the intention of blinding your attackers, not decapitating their limbs!
A Potent Self-Defense Tool that Capitalizes on Laser Technology
A laser saber is practically a variant of tactical laser saber weapons. It was once a technology that was available only to the U.S. military but has since been utilized in the development of handy self-defense equipment. They are usually powered by lithium ion, so you can expect them to last for a long time. They are usually designed to be light but sturdy (hence, their aluminum make) and small enough to be inconspicuous.
How The Shadowhawk Laser Saber Works
Laser sabers are used in pretty much the same way that tactical flashlights are used. With the single press of a button, you can direct a powerful laser beam at your attacker's eyes to stun and blind him. And, when we say "powerful", just think of how disorienting a normal beam of light already is when it is shone to eyes that have gotten used to the dark; now, imagine the light being 100x brighter. You can expect nothing less from a laser saber.
One of the best and most cost-friendly laser sabers available in the market today is the Shadowhawk Laser Saber. By simply pushing a button, you will activate its powerful laser that can blind any invader at the spot. The beam produced is so strong and solid that, when viewed from a distance, you will see a straight line of laser that reaches up to heavens. From this fact alone, the blinding capability of this weapon is evidently unquestionable.
It's made of aluminum and is primarily black in color in order for it be easily hidden, especially in the dark. Equally good is that it can last for hours because of its lithium ion batteries. It's very easy to wield and doesn't require you to confront your attacker anymore, especially if you hit him solidly in the eyes. Lastly, for all the benefits it has, it's very not very costly as well.
Why You Should Carrying a Laser Saber with You at All Times
• Here are but some of the solid reasons that make a laser saber an excellent self-defense weapon:
• It's very cheap, compared to purchasing guns and other specialized weapons, but is very effective.
• Its efficacy lies mainly in the fact that it's designed with the worst defense scenarios in mind. After all, would you be able to wield a gun properly in areas with limited lighting and in difficult shooting angles?
• It's perfect for identifying threats in very dark venues, and really performs well in dire scenarios.
• Would-be attackers, realizing that they have already been compromised with the sight of a laser pointer being pointed directly at them, would definitely hesitate assaulting you (if they haven't already scrammed, that is).
• Has a very long life, with an average usage limit of 5,000 hours.


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Parasites evade detection and diagnosis better than most human pathogens, explaining why most healthcare professionals deny their existence or clinical relevancy. Since diagnostic tests are often falsely negative or not reliable, astute clinicians must deduce the presence of parasites. Paraphrasing Sherlock Holmes, "if all of the more likely rationales have been shown to be impossible, the remaining explanation however improbably, must be true." In other words – once the more common causes of GI problems, such as bacterial or yeast overgrowth have been eliminated, the only possible cause of the symptoms must be parasitic.
I performed a study on 195 serial stool tests (CDSA) performed by Genova Diagnostics and found that parasites were detected on 17.9% of the samples. Now that a DNA analysis is offered by Metametrix Labs, I have found a much higher detection level. The conclusion is that parasites are a very common cause of gastrointestinal symptoms.
Complaints of chronic GI symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, nausea, abdominal pain, bloating and gas are common. Occasionally all tests in such patients for GI functioning are normal, suggesting that something other than unfriendly flora is causing the symptoms. This used to perplex me – but not any more. Now I know that the hard-to-detect parasites are quietly skulking behind the scenes. Parasites do not seek to damage the host unnecessarily; they only want a comfortable home. Parasites often do not cause many symptoms, unlike unfriendly yeast or bacteria.
Parasites secrete toxins, some of which are toxic to the brain and can cause psychiatric and neurological symptoms. Some Integrative Medicine practitioners have suggested that the neuropsychiatric symptoms caused by parasites are reminiscent of the symptoms of "possession," and that those infected or "possessed" by these demonic critters may have benefited by exorcism rituals, which included herbal remedies, that resulted in them being "cast out." Not being privy to the scientific knowledge about infectious diseases, our ancestor's healers did the best they could do with the information they had available to them.
If all diagnostic tests reveal no known cause of GI symptoms, the conventional medicine phenomenological approach can be summed up in one statement – "Symptoms just happen." Or the symptoms will be blamed on "stress" and the patient is told that "your symptoms are all in your head." Such ridiculous appraisals confuse many patients who are experiencing problems in their bellies, not their heads! Patients who are told their symptoms, "just happen," are usually prescribed psychotropic drugs or symptom suppressive chemicals to alter their symptoms.
The message conveyed here – medical science can't figure out what's wrong with you, but just take this extremely expensive, highly profitable, very toxic chemical that living cells have never encountered before in all of earth's history, and "I'll see you in a few weeks." Then the patient is advised to keep taking the chemical from now until eternity and return every few months or so to pay for another expensive office visit and refill.
So here it is straight:
All symptoms, disorders, syndromes, maladies, and illnesses have physiological causes and if the causes are not found in every patient, it is the doctor's fault for not figuring it out, not the patient's fault.
Since diagnostic tests are not perfect and are still relatively unreliable in the determination of parasites, and since GI symptoms are not caused by evil spirits and Freudian psychobabble, we must suspect the improbable and proceed to look for clues to implicate the unlikely culprit.
Typical telltale findings indicative of parasitic infection
1. Vague symptoms of "creepy crawling" skin irritations and itching, especially at night.
2. A disparity of lactobacillus (low) to bifidus (high) on stool testing and cultures – parasites seem to compete more with acidophilus.
3. Blood in stool – yeast and bacteria generally don't chew their way right through blood vessel walls in the intestines, but the larger parasites are notoriously capable of doing this.
4. Unexplained anemia, due to #3 above, or low iron, TIBC (total iron binding capacity), and/or ferriten.
5. Low blood amino acid assays (blood) and low protein overall – parasites basically consume protein before you can benefit from it. If digestion is good (normal digestive enzymes in stool analysis) and intake of protein is adequate (>60 grams a day), what is preventing the protein from getting to the bloodstream?
6. Unexplained deficiencies in other nutrients such as minerals (e.g., selenium, zinc). This finding coincides with #5 above.
7. A history of anti-parasitic treatment (herbs, homepathics, medication) that improved symptoms or may have immediately worsened symptoms when they were first used. Such "die-off" symptoms with homeopathic remedies implies a clear and obvious presence of parasites.
8. A history of foreign travel or drinking water from an unusual source (such as a well at a campsite) that preceded symptoms.
9. Anal or rectal itching, AKA Pruritis Ani.
10. An unsatisfactory and unexpected negative treatment outcome with a comprehensive yeast treatment program that includes the following:
a) Total compliance by the patient;
b) A minimum treatment time of six weeks with an anti-yeast, antibiotic treatment (other than nystatin);
c) Treatment with a drug that was proven by culture and sensitivities to be effective against the particular strain of yeast or bacteria;
d) No laboratory evidence of immune dysfunction due to HIV/AIDS, immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., prednisone) or heavy metals (e.g., mercury) or other toxicity impairing immune responsiveness.
If any of these are present to any degree and unfriendly flora such as yeast and bacteria have been ruled out, parasites are the cause until proven otherwise. By deductive logic what else could it be? And since the exact parasite is often unknown, treatment must be presumptive with a broad range of anti-parasitic antibiotics, herbals and homeopathic remedies (see below).
Individuals with an intact intestinal barrier (enterocytes) are relatively impervious to parasites as with any unfriendly flora. That is why two people can drink the same water from a contaminated well and only one person develops symptoms. Or 1000 people eat contaminated beef from a burger chain and only 100 people get sick. Have you ever wondered what happens to the other 900 people that simply shrugged-off the infectious organisms? Why does there seem to be no interest at all in their resistance? This apparent oversight stems from conventional medicine's worldview that focuses on disease rather than on wellness and prevention. Imagine the implications of failing to study 900 people who have resisted infection – information that could prevent deaths from food poisoning in the future!
Most people also believe that parasites are only a problem in undeveloped countries and the third world. Parasites have always been a problem and will continue to infest the modern world. The natural resistance that indigenous people build up to the local parasites may not offer much help in stopping the parasites that have evolved in completely different parts of the world.
Much of the food we eat no longer comes from nearby farms – it can come from the other side of the world. And the natural foods that tend to inhibit the overgrowth of parasites, such as very hot and spicy foods typically served in warmer climates (where parasites are not killed by seasonal cold spells), may not be regularly included in the diet of those living in cooler regions.
Parasites can be tiny or very large. The microscopic varieties such as Giardia are probably much more common. Conventional and hospital based labs have a very poor record of detecting parasites when stool specimens are submitted to them.
Do you have parasites?
You can start the process to find out by scheduling a phone appointment. For more information about wellness testing, see: Wellness Assessment
If you would like to visit Dr Gant in person, see National Integrated Health Associates
Review this page for Dr Gant's updated Parasite Protocol:


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"I hope Michael does get in. We have no input into it but I was disappointed Duncan Fletcher missed out as he is coach of the second-best side in the world."
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Hello I'm James
Have booked a flight too Brisbane on the 9th of April not really got anything set in stone so really just playing it by ear... Also have a New Zealand Visa to activate whenever for 12 months want to spend at least a month in Oz first though! Then on too work in Auckland area ideally back too Oz after that. Anyone with any advice, tips or doing something similar at similar times please GET in touch.
I'm really laid back and just like to enjoy myself and have a laugh... But as you maybe able to tell pretty clueless to Oz/NZ will be a first for me...
Thank you for any help