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Police Believe They've Exposed Haredi Modesty Patrol
Group accused of using violence, threats to terrorize Haredi community, says uses only peaceful means.
In an old office in a residential building in Jerusalem's Geula neighborhood, sparsely furnished and with no air conditioning, four men sit behind desks piled high with papers and old issues of Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) newspapers. The hands on the yellowing clocks show that it is already 5 P.M., but activity here is at its height. The secretary lights another cigarette and picks up the ringing phone. Someone wants to know whether it is permitted to bathe at Tel Aviv's single-sex Sheraton Beach. The conversation will last for five seconds: "Taref [unclean], pork," he rules dryly. "It's not only the beach, all the entrances are no good. Both for men and for women."
Deviants and pedophiles
That is how the headquarters of the Committee for Preserving Our Camp's Purity works. The Jerusalem-based committee is in charge of modesty issues among the ultra-Orthodox public. This is where questions about what is permitted and what is prohibited stream in; this is where pashkevils [posters] are produced against businesses that sell "unclean appliances" like MP4s, or anything else that could "cause many casualties" among the Haredi public. This is also the address for complaints or informing against those who have strayed from the path: deviants, traitors and pedophiles.
"What we do is confirm the details, a public service," said the secretary. "At most we issue a warning. Everything is done is a pleasant manner."
Yet in one serious case that was recently publicized by the police, and that has set off riots in Jerusalem over the past three weeks, it looks as though some of the tracks lead back to this office, which is all humdrum bureaucratic routine.
The police believe they have discovered the "modesty patrols" that terrorize the ultra-Orthodox public, and have even investigated the committee's head, Rabbi Yitzhak Meir Shpernovitz.
Police have already arrested Binyamin Meirovich, who used to frequent this office; they believe he played a central role in a case in which a formerly Haredi woman was attacked because she was suspected of having improper ties with married men. They also arrested Shmuel Weissfish, on suspicion of harassing and torching shops in the Geula neighborhood. And an indictment was filed against Elhanan Buzaglo, which accuses him of being a "fist for hire" in the service of the modesty patrols and Meirovich and of playing an active role in attacking the formerly ultra-Orthodox woman. Meirovich and Weissfish were recently released under restrictive conditions, but police promise that they will be indicted, and there may be additional indictments as well.
The phrase "modesty patrols" hovers perpetually over the Haredi community. They may be a journalistic myth, or they may be part of life among the ultra-Orthodox.
But the police and the Jerusalem District Attorney's Office treat them with all seriousness. The indictment against Buzaglo stated that he "worked for the modesty patrols ... and one of the ways the organization works to carry out its goals is by means of threats, violence and other crimes." The organization, it continued, has used violent means in "dozens" of similar cases.
In June 1990, the body of Avi Edri was found in Jerusalem's Ramot Forest bearing marks of severe of violence. The police then declared that the murdered man had been a victim of modesty patrol members, who suspected him of carrying on an affair with a married ultra-Orthodox woman.
Though the police believed the attackers had meant only to frighten Edri, not to kill him, they were convinced that they had finally cracked the modesty patrols. But their investigation did not yield a single indictment.
Does the latest indictment mean that the modesty patrols have finally been caught?
The attack in question came to light due to a complaint by a 31-year-old woman who lives in Jerusalem's Ma'alot Dafna neighborhood. Until her divorce three years ago, she led a Haredi lifestyle, and after she abandoned this way of life, she continued to live in the Haredi neighborhood. According to the indictment, the modesty patrols suspected that she "was carrying on improper relationships with married men," and therefore planned to attack her in order to cause her to leave and to "pay her back" for her deeds.
Buzaglo participated in the attack for a fee of $2,000, the indictment said, and his fingerprints were found in the plaintiff's apartment. On June 1 of this year, it continued, he showed up in the woman's apartment along with six other men, armed with cudgels and tear gas.
"The defendant and the others pushed the plaintiff, threw her to the floor, banged her head against the floor and kicked her all over her body," the indictment stated.
"The defendant or one of the others sat on her head to prevent her from seeing what was going on and also to prevent her from fighting back. The defendant and the others also gagged the plaintiff with a piece of fabric and threatened that if she opened her eyes, tear gas would be sprayed into them. The defendant or one of the others interrogated the plaintiff regarding her relationships with men and asked for details about those men."
The assailants also took two cell phones away with them, in order to check the names of her callers, the charge sheet continued. And before leaving, they threatened that if she did not move out of her apartment, she would be murdered.
Cudgels and tear gas have also been used in other attacks on people suspected of sexual licentiousness in Haredi neighborhoods.
In an article on the modesty patrols published in the Haredi weekly Mishpaha in 1995, these weapons were mentioned as a key part of the patrols' arsenal.
The article also addressed a more interesting question: What is the group's mandate? A "veteran activist" told the newspaper: "There are no spontaneous blows, every blow requires permission from a Torah sage ... We have instructions in particularly severe cases to break arms and legs, not to kill."
Many people interviewed for the current article, however, believe that the recent attack in Ma'alot Dafna was a local operation "related to family honor," and had no connection to the modesty patrols or the Committee for Preserving Our Camp's Purity.
Either way, caution is warranted about the police's declaration that they are engaged in "a campaign against the modesty patrols." It is doubtful whether Weissfish, for example, is connected to the attack on the woman, and as far as is known, he is also not connected to the committee for preserving purity, but rather to a relatively new and nonestablishment extremist gang that operates in Jerusalem's Mea Shearim neighborhood and is called the Sicarii ("dagger men," after a group of extremists active during the Second Temple period). "As opposed to the Sicarii, who operate as a violent and disdained street gang, the modesty patrols are a positive thing, and are essential everywhere," said one Mea Shearim resident.
Yoel Kreus, who is nicknamed the "operations officer" of the ultra-Orthodox Eda Haredit, believes that the police are more interested in the leaders of the Sicarii than in stopping the activity of the modesty patrols.
"The patrols' activity does not disturb the police, on the contrary," he said. "They know that the modesty patrols do not resort to violence. If there is a pedophile in the neighborhood, only the modesty patrols can get him. But they usually don't beat people up."
Back to the office of the Committee for Preserving Our Camp's Purity: When Rabbi Yitzhak Meir Shpernovitz sits in his office toward evening, it is hard to see him as the infamous mashgiah (spiritual supervisor) of the Gur Hasidim's yeshivas, who reportedly terrorizes hundreds and thousands of young boys. "You probably thought you would arrive in a dark cave here," he told the visitor.
Shpernovitz asserted that what is now being attributed to the modesty patrols is nothing more than journalistic myth.
"Once, there was such a thing as the modesty patrols," he said - perhaps defensively, or perhaps waxing nostalgic about days gone by. "Today, there are no such things. The things that the police are attributing to Meirovich are nonsense. After all, a Haredi person cannot engage in such activity."
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|Precautions for Use
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subset: commoncrawl


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To mark the release of 'Semi-Pro' on February 29, 2008, Will Ferrell's Funny or Die Comedy Tour will be held nationwide on seven-college arena.
A nationwide comedy tour will be held as a part of "Semi-Pro" movie promotion. The tour, which is sponsored by FunnyorDie.com, will feature the rising stand-up comics, Zach Galifianakis, Demetri Martin, and Nick Swardson, alongside Will Ferrell, the star of the comedy movie.
The seven-college arena tour will be started on February 4, 2008 in Manhattan and closed on February 22, 2008 in North Carolina. Regarding the tour, Ferrell revealed that he believes that it will change lives. He stated, "Not only will this tour make people laugh, but it's going to change lives...I think."
Furthermore, according to press release, Funnyor Die.com will also uncover a new video highlighting Ferrell and his "Semi-Pro" co-star, Andrew Daly, every week until the release of the movie. The site is also going to hold a contest for promising comics to send their videos to be displayed on the big screen on the tour as well as on the Semi-Pro section of the site.
New Line Cinema's "Semi-Pro", which will be released on February 29, 2008, is a movie about the effort of Jackie Moon, a one hit wonder singer, and his basketball team, the Flint Michigan Tropics, to get out from the danger of being shut down. The movie which is set in the '70s with the background of a fast-paced, wild and crazy basketball league, is directed by Kent Alterman and produced by Jimmy Miller.
Here below are the schedules of the Will Ferrell's Funny or Die Comedy Tour Presented by Semi-Pro:
- February 4: Bramlage Coliseum at Kansas State University
- February 5: Breslin Events Center at Michigan State University
- February 6: Schottenstein Center at The Ohio State University
- February 11: Bryce Jordan Center at Penn State University
- February 12: Ryan Center at University of Rhode Island
- February 13: Conte Forum at Boston College
- February 22: Dean Smith Center at UNC Chapel Hill


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Easy Headband Project by Michelle WeeFolkArt
Welcome! You are browsing as a guestWould you like to see 30 projects made from this pattern and much more? create a free account What am I missing?
© Michelle WeeFolkArt
Easy Headband Project
This pattern is available for free.
For one of our first projects in my Newbie Knitting class, I wanted something fairly simple, quick to finish and something that the girls in my class could wear to show off their new skills.
Optional: You can add felt flowers, stars, etc and/or beads to add embellishments to your headband. Get creative.
For more information, see: http://weefolkart.com/content/newbie-knitting-backwa...


text: Five Towns Motor Inn Quick Specs Commissions 10.0%Rates $155Year Renovated 2011 View Large Interactive Map Address 655 Rockaway TpkeLawrence, NY 11559 Web http://www.fivetownsinn.com Phone + 1 516-371-2600 Fax + 1 516-371-2440 Toll-free 800-300-3864 Email firstname.lastname@example.com OverviewMeeting SpecsPhotos & videos Description Year Renovated: 2011Check in Time: 3:00 PMCheck out Time: 12:00 PMNumber of Floors: 3Total Number of Rooms: 111Rates: $155Commissions: Room Only 10.0% GDS Hotel Reservation CodesAmadeus GDS: IQ JFK694Galileo/Apollo GDS: IQ 56857Sabre GDS: IQ 014848WorldSpan GDS: IQ 8694 Five Towns Motor Inn Location & NeighborhoodOn Long Island's south shore. Airport, Beach, Suburban. Five Towns Motor Inn Rates & PoliciesFive Towns Motor Inn rates are Daily in USDStandard: $155 Credit Cards Are AcceptedReservations must be guaranteed with a credit cardMeals: Continental Plan Nearby AirportsKennedy Intl (2.50 miles northwest)LaGuardia (12 miles northwest)Manhattan (14 miles northwest)More Airports » Five Towns Motor Inn Room AmenitiesFive Towns Motor Inn amenities are in All rooms unless noted otherwiseAir ConditioningDaily Maid ServiceRooms for Non-smokersTelephoneVoicemailRefrigerator (some)Cable/Satellite TelevisionTelevisionInternet Access (High Speed & Wireless) Guest ServicesComplimentary CoffeeLaundry RoomFree Onsite ParkingCommon Area Internet Access (Wireless) Security ServicesSmoke Alarm in Rooms Nearby RecreationBeachGolf CourseHealth ClubHealth Spa/MassageShopping Mall/Area Five Towns Motor Inn Meeting Rooms & Events Five Towns Motor Inn Business ServicesBusiness Center Five Towns Motor Inn Images, Videos, & Virtual Tours Photos & Videos Five Towns Motor Inn LobbyFive Towns Motor Inn RoomFive Towns Motor Inn RoomFive Towns Motor Inn RestaurantFive Towns Motor Inn Restaurant Images Powered by VFM Leonardo Nearby Lawrence Hotels More Nearby Hotels Galaxy MotelBroadway at Times Square HotelClarion Hotel Park AvenueComfort Inn ChelseaGrand Union HotelHampton Inn Manhattan Times Square NorthHerald Square HotelHotel MetroHotel WolcottMarrakech HotelMurray Hill SuitesNewton HotelNH Jolly Madison TowersOff Soho Suites HotelRiverside Tower HotelThe FranklinThe Hotel at Times SquareThe Pod Hotel 51Tryp by Wyndham New York Times SquareBest Western Gregory Hotel Hoteliers! Is your listing up to date? With over 130,000 hotels in our database, no other source compares to our depth of information. Click here to review and be sure the travel professional knows your hotel's latest details.


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Back in elementary school, you may have been told that iron oxide powder, added to a paint base, made red paint. The abundant red pigment was the reason for many a red building and barns around the country.
If you currently subscribe or have subscribed in the past to the Cedar Key Beacon, then simply find your account number on your mailing label and enter it below.
Click the question mark below to see where your account ID appears on your mailing label.
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The Bible doesn't answer all our questions about heaven and life after death - and the reason is because our minds are limited and heaven is far too glorious for us to understand. Some day, all of our questions will be answered - but not yet. As the Apostle Paul wrote, "Now I know in part; then I shall know fully" (1 Corinthians 13:12).
However, the Bible certainly does indicate that when we die we enter immediately into God's presence if we belong to Christ. From our earthly point of view, death looks somewhat like sleep - but not from God's point of view. Paul declared, "We are confident (of eternal life), I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord" (2 Corinthians 5:8). Elsewhere he wrote, "I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far" (Philippians 1:23).
Later, we will be given new bodies - bodies that will never age or be subject to death, because they will be like Christ's resurrection body. As the Bible says, "The dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed" (1 Corinthians 15:52).
Is your hope in Christ? Death is a reality - but so is God's offer of salvation in Christ. Don't put off your decision for Him, because you could be called into eternity at any moment - and then it will be too late.


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A legend continues to shine.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira fought for the first time in ten months at this past weekend's UFC 153 card in Rio de Jeneiro, Brazil. Against Nogueira was very credible middle-of-the-pack heavyweight named Dave Herman. Herman came into his fight with Nogueira with a 21-4 record as a pro mixed martial artist. The Rio crowd was in a frenzy to welcome one of its heroes back to the sport the same way they did for Nogueira just over a year ago when he returned from a long hiatus.
Back then, at UFC 134 in Rio, Nogueira was returning from over a year off due to various injuries. He faced Brendan Schaub and TKO'd Schaub in less than four minutes thanks to better-than-normal striking. Nogueira fought once more after beating Schaub, that fight being a rematch against Frank Mir last December. In that fight, Mir broke Nogeuira's left arm while executing a kimura. The injury forced Nogueira off a scheduled fight against Cheick Congo back in July and be out of action until UFC 153.
Last Saturday night, Nogueira didn't seem to show that much rust after being out for nearly a year and only in his third fight in the last two years. Any rust at all showed in round one when Nogueira seemed to be easing himself into his strategy, throwing, but not being too aggressive about it. He did eat plenty of kicks from Herman during the round though, but seemed content with how the round progressed.
Nogueira scored a great knockdown with a combination to start round two. Then he went to work on the ground. Nogueira nearly got an armbar on Herman during the two minutes he had him on the canvas. Herman eventually got out of Nogueira's grip and made it back to his feet. The fight got back to the ground fairly soon after when Nogueira scored a trip takedown on Herman and immediately got full mount. From there, it was only a matter of time before Nogueira secured an armbar and got a submission victory in his return in the cage.
As for what's next, retirement isn't an option. Nogueira made it clear in post-fight interviews that he isn't thinking about retiring, only about fighting. With that in mind, where does Big Nog fit into the UFC heavyweight division as of now?
With two losses to Mir, that fight won't be made again. And considering how Cain Velasquez KO'd Nogueira when the two fought in 2010, a rematch between the two likely won't be made even if Velasquez fails in his challenge for the heavyweight title this December. It seems that Nogueira has to be considered a middle-of-the-pack heavyweight at the moment because of how little he's been fighting in recent years due to accumulated injuries as well as the fact that Nogueira's most recent losses have been against people closer to the top of the heavyweight division.
Cheick Congo was a good opponent for Big Nog back in July and would still be a good opponent. The Carwin/Nelson winner wouldn't be a bad choice for Big Nog either. Maybe UFC could give the MMA fans of Japan a dream fight with Nogueira and Mark Hunt if they head back to Japan in 2013. There are plenty of fights to be made with Big Nog. If he wants fights, he's shown that he should get fights. It still doesn't seem likely that Nogueira will challenge for the UFC heavyweight title during the remainder of his career, but if he stays around long enough and keeps winning, who knows.Tags: Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, Big Nog, Cain Velasquez, Dave Herman, Frank Mir, MMA, UFC, UFC 153


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Cross Sony's latest flagship off the list if you're shopping around for a new phone on T-Mobile.
The magenta network is no longer selling it, instead directing you to the Xperia Z and Z1S if you're dead set on getting a Sony handset.
Smartphone turnover moves fast, but usually not this quickly. Either T-Mobile is privy to some inside information about the rumored Xperia Z4 coming sooner than we thought, or the sales have been so lackluster it's decided to just pull it off the shelves altogether.
The Xperia Z4 is rumored to look much the same as its previous edition with an upgrade to the newest Snapdragon processor, an upgrade that sounds as ho-hum as the HTC One M9. Either way, things aren't looking up for Sony's mobile efforts.
The story behind the story: While Sony executives have denied rumors the company is getting out of the mobile business, this isn't a great indicator. With the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge generating a ton of buzz and excitement, Sony would really have to wow the public to gain some interest. Anything can happen, but signs definitely aren't pointing that way.
This story, "T-Mobile is nixing Sony Xperia Z3 sales after just six months in stores" was originally published by Greenbot.


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Pennsylvania princesses, tiaras and tears on their way to Connellsville
The 2013 Pennsylvania Pageant will be held at the Edwin S. Porter Theater in the Connellsville Community Center on April 6.
This is a professional pageant.
Eight age divisions will be represented, three of which are main divisions where the winners will go on to national competition in Houston, Texas and work with world-renowned hair and make-up artist Gaspar Cruz.
The winners will compete against others from across the country.
Organizers say participants from all over Pennsylvania will be at the Connellsville Community Center for the event.
The Pennsylvania pageant directors are Leigh Langgle and her daughter Kelsey Landy of Connellsville.
A national television producer and crew will be filming the event as well as filming Langgle and Landy, who are owners of Pageant-Perfect.
Several of Langgle and Landy's current winners will attend the Pennsylvania Pageant at the Porter Theater including Miss Jr. T.E.E.N. Pennsylvania Nicole Carney of Cranberry Township who went on to win the National Title of Miss Jr. T.E.E.N. United States 2012 and Miss T.E.E.N. Pennsylvania Kailey Verbickey of Johnstown, as well as other.
Princess divisions include baby (newborn to 23 months) in formal dress and play wear; toddler (ages 2-3) in formal dress and play wear; Mini Miss (ages 4-6) in formal dress, play wear and an interview; Little Miss (ages 7-9) in formal dress, play wear and an interview and Young Miss (ages 10-12) in formal dress, play wear and an interview.
Girls who want to participate can sign up by emailing firstname.lastname@example.com or by visiting the website at www.pennsylvaniateenpageant.com or by calling 724-689-4795.
Langgle and Landy are not only excited about the April 6 pageant being held at the Porter but are also excited about the television filming, which is for a possible upcoming reality television show, said Lori Kosisko, with the Connellsville Community Center.
"We are especially thrilled about this opportunity as it was not something that we went looking for; an associate producer had found us," said Landy.
In addition to the visiting queens from across Pennsylvania, several from other states will be in attendance at the April 6 pageant along with pageant celebrity judges coming from Los Angeles, Ohio, Virginia and Pennsylvania.
"Pageants are a great experience for girls because it gives them confidence to speak in front of people. The Princess divisions are natural which means they can only wear very light simple make-up or none at all. This is not a glitz pageant with false eyelashes, fake hair or teeth. Our goal is to help young women and girls improve their confidence while making new friends. We guarantee an amazing experience for all that attend," said Landy.
Advance tickets can be purchased online. Cost is $15 for adults and $10 for children age 12 and under. Visit www.pennsylvaniateenpageant.com. Tickets may also be purchased at the door on the day of the pageant.
The pageant starts at 6 p.m.
The contestants will be busy in the morning and afternoon with interviews and rehearsals.
"Ticket sales are open to the public as we want everyone to share in this special event as the producer from Los Angeles and film crew are returning to the area to film at the pageant for an upcoming reality television show based on Landy and Langgle and their Pageant-Perfect Team," said Kosisko.
Associate staff of Pageant-Perfect includes photographer Ken Brooks and coach Troy Michael from Connellsville and coach Lisa Wood from Cornelius, North Carolina. The team coaches girls all across the United States to pageant wins.
The Porter Theater is located at 201 E. Fairview Ave.
Nancy Henry is a freelance writer.


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News Attack: HANGOVER III Expands the Wolfpack and More
In today's news attack we talk about third Hangover movie and Michael Bay's next project.
The wolfpack looks to be expanding for The Hangover III. THR reports that Ken Jeong is going to play an "expanded" role in the third film. He will once again join Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, and Zach Galifianakis, who have already signed on to return. Todd Phillips is once again directing the installment, set for release over Memorial Day 2013. Schedules are currently being worked out so that Jeong can shoot the film during time off from Community. The NBC show begins filming in August and overlaps slightly with Hangover III's planned fall shoot.
THR also reports that Bay is set to produce a new thriller called Rising for Paramount. The thriller is reportedly a mix between Eagle Eye and The Usual Suspects. Platinum Dunes is producing the project baseed on a pitch from Soo Hugh (The River, The Killing).
As a fan of The Killing and The Usual Suspects, I am intrigued by this project. Which movie are you looking forward to seeing the most?
Follow me on Twitter at @Jim_Napier


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To provide a brief description, I have hair, a reasonably flat stomach, I speak in complete sentences and I don't live with my mother. I hope that counts for something.
Stable, relatively sane and gainfully employed in a job I almost actually like. Not rich, not poor and not particularly concerned about it.
Have been told by women whose taste and intelligence I trust that I'm not difficult to look at, though I'm honestly undecided. In good physical shape, I hate working out but feel that having worked out is truly sublime. I feel that way about a lot of things, really.
I like women who like guys who occasionally pull their hair when they kiss them. Among other attributes. Pliant, moderately dissolute a huge plus.
Movies: Orpheus, by Cocteau; anything with Dietrich; most documentaries; most film noir, and anything by Hitchcock, Billy Wilder, Kubrick, Scorsese, the Cohen Bros, Terrence Malick, Almodovar, Wes Anderson, Spike Jonze, John Huston, Fritz Lang, or Woody Allen before his brain fell out.
Food: Chili, and any recipe from Tuscany
Music: It's easier to say what I don't like -- Lawrence Welk, Barry Manilow and anything played while you're waiting on hold for tech support. They're piping the same stuff into Hell.
My motorcycle (what's left of it)
Women in very high heels
That dark little bar off the lobby of the Iroquois Hotel


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Sprint Bridges 3G, WiMAX with Dual-Mode Modem
The U300 works with Windows Vista and XP along with Sprint Connection Manager, which automatically determines the fastest connection available in any given location and uses that (similar to how today's 3G devices roll back to 2G whenever necessary).
Sprint launched its 4G network in Baltimore back in September. The carrier still plans to flip the switch in other cities over the course of 2009, although its rollout schedule is still somewhat vague at this point.
The Sprint 3G/4G USB Modem U300 lists for $149.99 with a two-year contract and after a $50 mail-in rebate. The 3G/4G hybrid plan costs $79.99 per month ($20 more than a regular 3G or 4G broadband plan on Sprint). Look for it in stores on December 21st. For more information, visit www.sprint.com/4g.
Originally posted on Gearlog.


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VIENNA (Jul. 2)
The British historian David Irving was arrested in Vienna and ordered to leave the country after trying to deliver speeches about Rudolf Hess. A decision by the Interior Ministry declared Irving persona non grata in Austria.
Irving intended to speak about Hitler's deputy, whose 90th birthday is being celebrated by the extreme right all over Europe. A so-called working committee for correct current history had invited Irving to Vienna. The chairman of this committee is a well known figure of the far right.
Irving has been popular among rightists for his thesis that the guilt for the outbreak of the Second World War War is to be shared between Nazi Germany and the Western democracies. Recently Irving served as a historic consultant for Stern magazing in the affair of the forged Hitler diaries, which he claimed to be authentic.


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Taxpayers will have more time to fight IRS levies, be allowed to make partial installment payments and deal with a less-complicated tax code under a measure passed unanimously by the Senate.
The bill gives taxpayers more rights, overhauls tax administration, clarifies the definition of "qualifying child" for the Earned Income Tax Credit and eliminates more than 60 obsolete tax code rules, the Wall Street Journal reported. The $4 billion cost will be offset by tax shelter penalties.
"This legislation is the first legislation addressing tax administration since the IRS Restructuring and Reform Act of 1998," said bill sponsor Max Baucus, D-Mont. The bill, approved Wednesday night, was also sponsored by Senate Finance Committee Chairman Charles Grassley, R-Iowa.
Some of the provisions of the bill include:
- Allowing taxpayers to repay tax debts by making partial payments on installment plans.
- Increasing the number of low-income taxpayer clinics.
- Improving oversight of paid tax preparers.
- Expanding interest abatement and interest netting plans.
- Allowing taxpayers to deposit money into interest-bearing accounts to cover potential tax debts.
The bill also changes the administration of the U.S. Tax Court and taxpayer disclosure regulations.


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From Cardinal Seán's blog
'...I went to the Pope John Paul II Catholic Academy Columbia Road campus for the reception to present John and Cyndy Fish with the academy's 2012 Eileen and Jack Connors' Founders Award.' Pilot photo/CardinalSeansBlog.org
Last Thursday (10/4), we had one of our regular meetings of the board of the Massachusetts Catholic Conference. The MCC is the joint public policy voice of the four Catholic dioceses of Massachusetts. They play a very important role on the issue of education and other important issues. During the meeting, we planned activities for the upcoming year. MCC director Jim Driscoll gave us a report on the issues relevant to the Church likely to come up in the upcoming year.
Jesuit diaconal ordination
On Saturday (10/6), I was happy to celebrate the diaconal ordination of a number of Jesuits and a member of the Redemptorist order. The Mass was held at St. Ignatius Church in Chestnut Hill. The Redemptorist deacon is from the island of Grenada in the West Indies. I told him that I was ordained a bishop by a Redemptorist bishop in the West Indies, so I was happy to return the favor! I told them it was the Feast of St. Bruno and also the date that the first Jesuit arrived in United States. His name was Pedro Martinez (though not the former Red Sox pitcher, I told them!) and he was martyred in Florida. I told them it was a very auspicious date to celebrate the ordination of these young Jesuits from various provinces, including one from Singapore.
Visit with Priestly Fraternity of St Charles Borromeo


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KISS, in full makeup. That's what everyone will remember after leaving the John Varvatos fall / winter 2014 show on a rock'n'roll legend high. The band weren't just playing over the loudspeakers, they were there in person to help Varvatos take his bow. They've been working with the designer on his latest ad campaign, and it was their mythos – that of "the superhero, a man in disguise with incredible powers" – that inspired this season's collection.
And the collection was Varvatos at his best: rolling out at first in a dark cloud of rock'n'roll romanticism, lightening up later with cream tuxedos, sharply tailored jackets and metallic accents. The key fabrics were luxurious ones – shearling, jacquard silk, flannel and embossed metallic calfskin. The rock spirit was all the way through it: Varvatos' runways always seem to have the coolest hair, the sharpest cheekbones, the most palpable attitude. I guess that's why you're either a fan, or you're not. If you are, this collection will give you plenty to lust after.
You can see all of the John Varvatos autumn (fall) / winter 2014 runway collection by clicking on a thumbnail on the left. From there you can browse through each of the pictures from the fashion show.
Photography by Imaxtree


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A former maintenance worker and his wife have given ST. JOHN'S MERCY FOUNDATION a $2.5 million estate gift. The estate of ROBERT and HELENE HOFFMANN donated the money following Helene's death in 2009. Robert, who worked in the hospital's maintenance department for more than 15 years, passed away in 2001. In recognition of the gift, the hospital will name the pediatric emergency department in the couple's memory. St. John's Mercy expects to see more than 22,000 children in the Helene and Robert Hoffmann Pediatric Emergency Department this year.
NPR's IRA FLATOW is bringing his popular Talk of the Nation: Science Friday show to St. Louis next month. The show's March 12 episode will be broadcast live from the SAINT LOUIS SCIENCE CENTER. Tickets to the free event were gone quickly, but we're told there's a waiting list for standing room tickets.
WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE is still basking in the glow of receiving the largest global health grant in its history. The BILL & MELINDA GATES FOUNDATION has given the university a five-year, $13 million grant to improve efforts to eliminate tropical diseases, which as a group are expected to have a health impact comparable to that of HIV and malaria. The new project will target two parasitic diseases. One is lymphatic filariasis, a leading cause of disability worldwide that infects an estimated 120 million people. The other is onchocerciasis, or river blindness, which occurs mainly in Africa and has infected approximately 20 million people.
Hometown girl COURTNEY O'DONNELL, who happens to be DR. JILL BIDEN's press secretary, is featured in the February issue of Redbook magazine. O'Donnell is a Georgetown grad who served as deputy communications director for HOWARD DEAN and for PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON's foundation before landing her dream job of working in the White House. The magazine follows O'Donnell through a typical day in Washington and describes her challenge of balancing work, marriage and motherhood. O'Donnell is the daughter of PHYLLIS and TOM O'DONNELL of Town and Country. She and husband CASSIDY MORGAN have a 1-year-old son, FELIX, and another child due this spring.
A national ad group has named a University of Missouri-St. Louis senior one of its 'Most Promising Minority Students.' Media studies major NICHOLAS FOSTER of Spanish Lake was the only Missouri student recognized on the American Advertising Federation's annual list. He and 50 other marketing and communications students from across the country were invited to attend network and interview sessions with top ad agencies and media companies in New York earlier this month.
And the award goes to…(surprise!) DR. PETER RAVEN, who is once again being recognized as a worldwide leader in science and technology. This time, the Missouri Botanical Garden prez is the recipient of the 2009 Award for International Scientific Cooperation from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). Raven accepted the award last month at CAS' annual conference in Beijing.
The littlest O'Leary…Congratulations to Opera Theatre of Saint Louis general director TIMOTHY O' LEARY and his wife KARA on the birth of their daughter, ROSE EVELYN, last month.
Help local Cinderellas out by going through your closet for gently used prom and bridesmaid dresses. THE METRO ST. LOUIS CINDERELLA PROJECT is collecting special-occasion dresses to benefit girls in need. The dresses will be available at temporary 'Cinderella' boutiques where girls referred by school counselors and social service agencies will have the chance to select a gown for free. Dresses can be dropped off at the customer service kiosks at Chesterfield Mall, Mid Rivers Mall, West Country Center and South County Center through the end of February.
Pillow fight, anyone? JUVENILE DIABETES RESEARCH FOUNDATION is kicking off 'PJs For The Cure,' a pajama fundraiser to benefit much-needed research to treat, cure and prevent diabetes. Cotton pajamas in women's ($40) and children's ($25) sizes are available by calling (877) PJ2-CURE or at


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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 28/9/2013 (1422 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
It's been 275 years, so what's another day?
Saturday's wet weather forced a historic re-enactment of the 1738 arrival of French-Canadian explorer Pierre Gauthier de Varennes, Sieur de La V©rendrye to be postponed until this morning as part of the Culture Days weekend.
Outfitted in complete 18th-century clothing, La V©rendrye and voyageurs will arrive at The Forks historic port in two large canoes at 11 a.m. Soldiers and Cree warriors will announce the arrival by musket fire and the La V©rendrye actor and a Cree speaker will re-enact a conversation held on Sept. 24, 1738.
Following this moment of living history, there will be an unveiling of a new Fort Rouge Interpretive Panel and a launch of the La V©rendrye Route on the Assiniboine River pedestrian bridge.
Military drills and musket demonstrations, along with blacksmithing and woodworking workshops, are also scheduled to be a part of the afternoon.
Today marks the final day of Culture Days. Here's a slice of some of the action going on in Winnipeg:
A Nude Live Painting
by Robert Sim
WHAT: "Nudity is always disquieting, instigating and surprising. So the artist, both in painting and in sculpture, in dancing or in photography, discovers in the nude a profound link with the pureness of being. Sensuality stimulates creativity in every sense." (Ariano Cavalcanti de Paula)
WHERE: Gurevich Fine Art, 200-62 Albert St.
TIME: noon-5 p.m.
Dance Downtown
WHAT: Get out and enjoy the day by shaking your booty. This event brings professional and non-professional dancers together for dance of all styles and backgrounds. Don't feel like dancing? Come by and check out it, anyway.
WHERE: Royal Winnipeg Ballet building, 380 Graham Ave.
TIME: 1 p.m.-4 p.m.
Manitoba Seniors
Music Festival Preview
WHAT: Local seniors continue their long-standing presence in the music community with a preview to the coming festival. Fiddle, classical compositions and jazz will be featured.
WHERE: 560 Arlington St.
TIME: 2 p.m.-4 p.m.
Manitoba Honey Days
WHAT: Organized by the Manitoba Beekeepers Association and the Red River Apiarists Association, come learn about honey extracting, see demonstrations, meet local honey producers and taste and purchase honey derived from various flowers.
WHERE: The Forks Market
TIME: 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
Shade International Lighting
Design Competition Exhibition
WHAT: Shade is a result of an international lighting design competition, featuring over 650 cities around the world. During the exhibition a set of jury awards will be announced and some of the lighting prototypes will become available for purchase online.
WHERE: Make Coffee, 751 Corydon Ave.
TIME: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.


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12 Best TV Shows of 2012
5. Happy Endings
By JARETT WIESELMAN
December 19, 2012
There are two kinds of people in the world: those who love Happy Endings and those who haven't seen Happy Endings. I firmly believe this because the comedy is endlessly ah-mah-zing, and anyone who thinks otherwise has simply never been exposed to the hyper-reality their taste of Chicago offers.
Jokes fly so fast and furious, a second viewing is often required. Although, that never feels like an obligation given the cast's splendid chemistry and ace comedic timing.


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A group of experienced market experts setting up a new investment fund will share their success with children's charities.
Future Generation Investment Fund plans to donate one per cent of its assets each year - likely to equate to at least $1 million - to a range of charities helping disadvantaged kids.
Management and performance fees will be foregone to boost the fund's asset base, while its board will also waive fees normally paid to directors.
"Although Australia is ranked as the seventh wealthiest nation in the world on a GDP per capita basis, a staggering 17 per cent of our children fall below the poverty line," said Geoff Wilson, Future Generation's chairman.
Mr Wilson, a 34-year veteran of share market trading, has driven the establishment of the fund, which plans to list on the market in September.
He will be joined on the board by other investment market and financial services experts, each with decades of experience.
The fund currently has no operating or investment activities, and its net assets will be determined by the demand for its market listing, and a buy-back of shares from its existing shareholders.
Future Generation aims to raise up to $200 million with its initial public offer of new shares, which is set to close in early September before shares begin trading on September 14.
Shareholders will also benefit from the fund's lack of performance and director fees, with any extra funds from those policies set to go to its investors.
By making the fund attractive to investors, Future Generation stands to raise more for its selected charities, Mr Wilson said.
Among the charities set to receive donations are Kids Helpline, Youth Off The Streets and Lighthouse Foundation.


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The 2016 PNWA Conference is over (for me at least, events continue Sunday, but alas, I will not be there).
The highlight of the weekend for me was being on a YA / Middle Grade / SF / Fantasy – "Ask a Pro" panel with Royce Buckingham, Ethan Reid, Brian Mercer, Kisa Whipley, Cait Spivey, Patricia Nelson and Jeff Ayers. I hope we dispensed some wisdom that helped those who attended, and I know we had a ton of fun. I could talk writing and publishing with these people all day long!
I spent a good chunk of the conference in the Pitch-Block room, trying to keep smiles on the faces of nervous authors pitching to an incredible collection of agents and editors, while also trying to keep the room quiet. Not everyone appreciates the bad cop we volunteers sometimes need to be, but most at least understand how important it is to keep the noise level down while other pitches are going on. I did three of these 90 minute sessions, and by the end of the third one, my feet were killing me. But it's fun too, and a great way to meet all the agents and editors. If you're planning on going to the PNWA Conference next year and want to volunteer, working the Pitch-Blocks is absolutely the way to go.
But the best part of the weekend is spending time with old friends and meeting new ones. Pam Binder, as always, puts a smile on my face every time I see her. Jason Black and I spent a lot of time talking writing. Hanging out with C.C. Humphreys is always a blast. Kevin O'Brien was awesome (as usual). Chris Patchell, Sean Fletcher, and the whole crew from the Andrea Hurst Agency and I had a great time at the bar before dinner on Friday. I had great talks with so many other folks, my voice was shot by the end of Friday night, but I soldiered on to participate in my first PNWA signing party! I wish I had remembered to take more pictures!
I did get this shot (thanks Pam!) of Bob Dugoni signing a couple of books for me after his heartwarming keynote speech on Thursday night. Bob is a fantastic guy, and so generous with his time and advice. We're incredibly lucky to have him in the PNWA.
Of course, I restocked my bookshelf with a few (okay a bunch) of new, signed books. I really wanted to get my hands on CC's new books Plague and Fire, but am still waiting for those to be available in the US. I may have to drive up to Canada to get them if all else fails.
Overall, a fantastic, and exhausting time. My writing batteries are fully recharged, and I will be digging in hard to get my next book out soon.
But now, I must go to bed. I need sleep.
My author's copies of the paperback edition of NOWHERE WILD arrived in the mail today! Many thanks to Suzanne Sutherland and Maria Golikova at HarperCollins for getting this one out for summer readers. I'd also like to thank (again) Sally Harding and Rachel Letofsky at the Cooke Agency for everything they do to keep my publishing career on track. I couldn't have done this without you.
And to all of you readers who have already bought the hardcover edition, thank you so much. I hope to have more for you to read in the near future. If you liked the book, please put a review and rating up on Amazon or Goodreads, or wherever you bought the book. It really does help!
The paperback goes on sale August 9th, 2016 in USA and Canada.
I've finally gotten around to updating my events page, and have two confirmed events between not and early May:
I had such a fantastic time at A Book For All Seasons in Leavenworth, WA last weekend, that I'm going back on April 30th for Indie Bookstore Day here in the US. I'll be there from 3-6 PM, signing books and chatting it up with customers. It really is a fantastic store. Can't wait to go back!
Also, on May 8th, I'll be signing book in the Issaquah, WA Barnes & Noble from 1 PM to 3 PM. This is my first local appearance in sing last fall, so I'm hoping there is pent-up demand for signed copies of NOWHERE WILD. Hope to see lots of my local peeps out for that one.
Of course, July is also approaching, and that mean the PNWA Convention—my first as a published author. !!!Goosebumps!!!
If you are local bookstore owner, or librarian, and want me to come out for a reading or a signing, please feel free to contact me, and we'll see what we can get done!
Just a quick heads up that I've got another giveaway going on over on my Goodreads page. Enter today for a chance to win a signed hardcover copy of NOWHERE WILD!
Contest ends April 10th, so by my count, you've got just 11 days left to enter. Hurry!
Welcome to the 2016 – Spring Scavenger Hunt!
A what?
Yes, a scavenger hunt.
What are you hunting for, you may ask?
Fun! Excitement! Bonus Content for Nowhere Wild! PRIZES!
How? Why? Where? Did I say Bonus Content for Nowhere Wild? Why yes, yes I did. Somewhere out there in the hunt, you will find a previously unpublished short story about Jake and Amos. Yes, really. And what are these prizes of which I write? Ah, for that, you must first read, and follow the rules:
Directions: Somewhere below, you'll notice that I've listed my favorite number. Collect the favorite numbers of all the authors on TEAM PURPLE, and then add them up (don't worry, you can use a calculator!)
Entry Form: Once you've added up all the numbers, make sure you fill out the form here to officially qualify for the grand prize. Only entries that have the correct number will qualify.
Rules: Open internationally, anyone below the age of 18 should have a parent or guardian's permission to enter. To be eligible for the grand prize, you must submit the completed entry form by SUNDAY, APRIL 3rd, at noon Pacific Time. Entries sent without the correct number or without contact information will not be considered.
On this hunt, you not only get access to exclusive content from each participating YA author, you also get a secret number. Add up the numbers, and enter it for a chance to win a major prize–one lucky winner will receive at least one signed book from each author on my team in the hunt! But play fast. This contest (and all the exclusive bonus material) will only be online until noon PST on Sunday, April 3rd!
There are NINE contests going on simultaneously, and you can enter one or all! I am a part of the PURPLE TEAM, but there is also a RED TEAM, BLUE TEAM, GOLD TEAM, ORANGE TEAM, PINK TEAM, SILVER TEAM, TEAL TEAM, & GREEN TEAM! Check out each team for a chance to win eight different sets of signed books!
If you'd like to find out more about the hunt, see links to all the authors participating, and see the full list of prizes up for grabs, go to the YA Scavenger Hunt page.
So as you've read above, I am on the PURPLE team, which is clearly the best team. Here are the rest of my teammates:
Quite the collection of books there.
My job now is to introduce you to Meredith Moore, and her book, Fiona.
Meredith writes YA contemporary gothic thrillers about girls who are trying to figure out who they are and who they want to be. She loves lattes, road trips, 19th century British novels, rainy days with cozy blankets and hot mugs of tea, early modern history, unwieldy stacks of books, the Scottish Highlands, and London.
She grew up in Houston, Texas, where she lives now, but spent several years in the Northeast, earning a degree in history at Harvard and working in publishing in New York.
From Meredith:
Music plays a large part in my new book, FIONA. Fee is a pianist, like her Scottish mother before her. Her mother commits suicide when Fee is twelve, and playing the piano becomes Fee's emotional release. It's how she expresses herself, how she finds comfort.
After her mother's death, Fee moves to a dusty West Texas town with an aunt who doesn't want her. She's about to graduate high school, desperate to find a way out, when her mother's best friend from childhood invites her to work as an au pair for her eleven-year-old daughter, Poppy, at their castle in the Scottish Highlands. Fee jumps at the chance, but before she arrives, Poppy's parents both die in a car crash.
When Fee arrives at the castle, she begins to fall for Charlie, the older brother of her orphaned charge. He discovers her talent at the piano and suggests an exchange: for every song that she plays for him, he'll tell her a secret. The two of them grow closer as Fiona plays him songs that remind her of her mother, and he reveals his doubts and fears now that he's taken over his father's business and Poppy's care.
I took piano lessons when I was in elementary school, but I was never drawn to music the way Fiona is, and I happily quit after a few years. Writing has always been my preferred emotional conduit. So it was fascinating to explore the world through the view of someone so attached to music, to figure out what songs would be meaningful to her, both classical and contemporary. I listened to a lot of music while writing this book, and I've created a playlist of my favorites. Some of these are songs that Fiona actually plays for Charlie in the book, and some are songs that I listened to while writing to help me get inside her head. Hope you enjoy!
Please add Meredith's Book Fiona to your Goodreads List, or heck, just go out and buy it today! Amazon | B&N | IndieBound | The Book Depository.
I can think of 98121 reasons PURPLE is the best, but I'm sure that's coming up short, and likely to make the other teams jealous. It's now up to you, dear reader, to prove me right!
To continue your Scavenger Hunt, please take a trip over to author Erin E. Moulton's site! Have a Wild time!
Go TEAM PURPLE!
Just a quick word of thanks to Theresa and the folks at A Book For All Seasons in Leavenworth, WA yesterday for hosting me for a signing. Met so many fascinating people (and sold a bunch of books!). Enjoyed it so much that I will be back on April 30th for Independent Bookstore Day!
I also want to thank Jessica and the folks at the Wenatchee Public Library for hosting me there as well. Turnout was hampered by the first truly nice Saturday they've had in quite a while, but the people who were there were great, and, as I've said before, I can talk about about writing for hours if you let me. I think everyone enjoyed it! I'll have to remember to go back when the snow in blowing next time!
I'd never been to Leavenworth before, and I don't know that this picture truly does the town justice, but it's an amazing, quaint piece of Bavaria tucked into the Cascades. Had great weather too, which really helped. Definitely can't wait to go back and explore more of the town.
Just a quick, final reminder that I will be doing readings / signings of NOWHERE WILD in Leavenworth and Wenatchee today.
I'll be at A Book For All Seasons starting at 11 AM in Leavenworth and then at the Wenatchee Public Library starting at 2 PM.
Let your friends know I'm coming… more of an informational note than a warning, really. I think they'll have a good time.
Just a quick reminder that I will be doing readings / signings of NOWHERE WILD in Leavenworth and Wenatchee on March 26th.
I'll be at A Book For All Seasons starting at 11 AM in Leavenworth and then at the Wenatchee Public Library starting at 2 PM.
Hope to see lots of readers out there!
I finally did it. After seven and a half years of iPhones, I took the leap today and bought myself a new Samsung Galaxy S7 Android phone. For the last 3+ years, I've been using an iPhone 5, and I liked it, but I absolutely hated iTunes, and I just didn't want to have another device tied to that horrible piece of software. When the battery on my iPhone started flaking out (lasting less than 2 hours, and would go from 50% charge to dead battery in 30 seconds), I knew I had to have something new.
I narrowed down my choices to the Galaxy S7 running Android, and the Lumia 950 running Windows 10. I really, really wanted to like the Lumia 950. The specs on the phone itself are pretty amazing—especially the image stabilization for the camera. For someone with shaky hands, that seemed like a killer feature. Unfortunately, from everything I've heard, the software on the phone just isn't there yet. I'm not just talking about the apps in the app store. From what I've heard from people I've talked to, the OS itself is glitchy, will suddenly kill apps or restart, and has BlueTooth issues. I don't mind being a beta tester on an app or a platform I'm building, but I can't justify spending $600 on a phone only to be frustrated by it. (Note, yes I do work for Microsoft, but I have no connection to anyone on the Windows Phone or Windows 10 team. I speak for myself here, and not for Microsoft).
The Galaxy S7 is brand new, but it's a beefed up version of the S6, and solves a few of the problems its predecessor. It's water resistant, has expandable memory, and very good resolution on the screen. I actually said 'Wow!' when I started viewing pictures people have posted in Facebook with my phone. Compared to the iPhone 5, its like night and day. Screens have come a long way in 4 years.
I also like the virtual keyboard a lot better on the Galaxy than the iPhone. Numbers and letters on the same screen! Incredible! Results in much faster typing for me, especially when entering those dreaded complicated passwords.
The only downside I've seen for the S7 itself is that the battery can't be replaced. Hopefully it lasts 3-4 years before I have to buy a new phone. I use my phone all the time, so if you amortize the cost over time used, it's probably a better deal than my car.
The S7 did present another problem for me. The case is incredibly slippery, and I could see dropping it a dozen times a day. I bought an Otter Box case to go over it for $45 to solve that issue.
Moving to Android from iOS does have a couple of pitfalls for me and my family. We use iMessage a lot. My daughter has a iTouch she can use to text us when she's at a friend's house or after school care (via wifi). My wife and I text each other often as well—who's picking up the kids, what's for dinner, etc. With iMessage, that has never cut into our text message quota for our cell phone service. Now, my daughter can't send me iMessages, and any my wife sends to me will count against our quota. I'm thinking of trying an app like TextPlus or kik to see if that keeps the monthly costs down and all of us in touch. We'll see how it goes.
I've only had the phone for a few hours now, but I've already got all the essential apps installed and working, my email accounts set up, and my music ported to Google Play (though I'm not sure I can reach all that music when I'm offline). I was worried that it would take me days to get up and running, but it didn't. In a couple of days, I'm sure I'll have everything I ever need. I do have a message on my screen from DirecTv that I can't get rid of, but hopefully I fix that soon.
I did have the fear that Android would be too difficult to learn to get going. I'm one of the least technical software developers I know. I normally don't care about hardware. I care about productivity and ease of use. For years, Apple was the gold standard. But getting apps installed on Android was incredibly easy. Maybe even easier than on iPhone.
For those of you into pictures of hardware, here's a shot of my phones history (minus the old brick phones from the late 90's). Screens have gotten a lot bigger (and need to be cleaned often as well), and at $600, my phone is now nearly as expensive as my last laptop. Hopefully this new one lasts as long as the previous ones did.


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New Zealand well ahead of Australia in business confidence
Media release
11 July 2013
New Zealand well ahead of Australia in business confidence
New Zealanders looking across the Tasman at the "lucky country" and thinking their futures lie there might have second thoughts following the recent Grant Thornton International Business Report (IBR).
Not only does it show New Zealand business confidence levels are nearly five times higher than Australia, but in other key areas such as employment, profitability and exports our Tasman neighbours lag well behind.
Paul Kane, partner, Privately Held Business, Grant Thornton New Zealand Ltd, said the second quarter figures for New Zealand remained strong against the rest of the world, but with some softening in two key areas - employment and profitability.
"Of the 44 countries surveyed New Zealand ranks seventh in confidence at 60%, behind Chile 88%, Peru 86%, United Arab Emirates 86%, Philippines 84%, India 75% and Mexico 62%.
"Australia on the other hand is ranked 31st on 13%, having dropped 10% since the first quarter of 2013. New Zealand dropped only 1% in that time.
"That's a substantial drop for Australia and reflects the impact of the slow down of China on their economy, especially mining, and the tense local political scene with their impending general elections," he said.
The big international movers in the last quarter, and what will be good news to New Zealand exporters, is the lift in business confidence levels in the United States, up 24% to 55%, a place behind New Zealand, and a 35% increase in the United Kingdom, which lifted their confidence to 34% overall.
"The one area of concern for the New Zealand economy is the decline in the number of companies looking to increase staff over the next 12 months. Although it is still a healthy 20% and we sit roughly at the mid-point when compared with other countries, it has dropped 9% in the last quarter and is down 10% on this time last year.
"Australian figures were twice as bad with a 16% decrease compared with last quarter to 12%.
"This significant decline is probably due to the lack of confidence on the economic front in Australia (46% uncertainty) in comparison to New Zealand's (24%). Companies are not going to hire new staff if they don't know where the economy is going," he said.
Not surprisingly, New Zealand businesses were well ahead of their Australian counterparts with a strong 58% thinking profits would increase in the next 12 months compared with 32% in Australia. For New Zealand this was slightly down compared with the first quarter.
"Our exporters are also more bullish than our Australian counterparts, despite our overvalued dollar. We were at 18% compared with Australia's 11%.
"While there is still some uncertainty internationally of where the global and national economies are heading, New Zealand is well placed on all fronts which should see our confidence levels compared with both Australia and other countries remain relatively strong," he said.


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Pittsburgh proposes building community center, spray and dog parks
Pittsburgh City Council on Tuesday introduced legislation to authorize spending nearly $2.6 million for parks and recreation, including $500,000 for a community center to be built on the North Side.
Council would commit $500,000 for new spray parks and dog parks. Community and senior centers across the city would receive $650,000 in upgrades. Funding would come from the $65 million capital budget, which includes a total of $2.8 million for the Department of Parks and Recreation, up $900,000 over 2012.
The community center is planned for Riverview Park in Brighton Heights. It would boast a $1.9 million soccer field with artificial turf scheduled to open this summer.


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- Visiting Chesapeake?
- City Activities and Info
- Resources for New and Relocating Businesses
- Doing Business with the City
- Development, Land Use & Construction
- City Council
- City Budget
- Constitutional Offices
- Construction
- Public Safety
Dismal Swamp Canal Trail
NOTICE: The Boat Ramp is currently CLOSED. The Trail is Open.
"NORFOLK, Va. -- Officials at the Norfolk District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have announced that the Dismal Swamp Canal will be closed indefinitely. The canal, which was closed due to extensive damage from Hurricane Matthew in October, requires dredging, debris and tree removal, and an investigation into reports of shoaling at various locations in the canal."
August 8, 2017-- Read WAVY.com's latest news report on the canal re-opening set for late September...
The Dismal Swamp Canal Trail is a former section of Virginia State Rt. 17, now a multi-use trail open to bicycling, walking, running/hiking, horseback riding, and boating. The north trail head is located at the intersection of Dominion Blvd. and Old Rt. 17 in Chesapeake, VA, and runs south 8.3 miles, adjacent to the Dismal Swamp Canal. The Dismal Swamp Canal Trail is an historic, environmental and outdoor recreation delight.
Click photo to enlarge.
The Canal is the site of the popular event "Paddle for the Border," which takes place in the spring. The event attracts paddlers from Maryland to Georgia, ages eight to eighty, fitness-buffs to historians, nature enthusiasts to families looking for a pleasant day's adventure.
Park Amenities:
- 11-Mile Paved Multiuse Trail that connects to Deep Creek Park
- Boat, Canoe or Kayak Ramp
- 2 Restroom Buildings
- Picnic Areas
- Horse Trails
The Great Dismal Swamp Refuge is home to myriad species of wildlife; parts of the Refuge were surveyed by George Washington's company; the Swamp is nationally recognized as a stop on the "Underground Railroad"; the GDS Refuge is also a resting spot for thousands of migratory birds in the fall and spring. The trail is linear and flat; perfect for people of all ages to bike or walk and horse owners to ride. The Ballahack Rd./Great Dismal Swamp Boat Ramp provides easy access to launch your boat, canoe or kayak.
Directions and Maps
Native Wildlife
When spending time along the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, you will be able to see many different types of native wildlife. Next time you are planning an outing, print out a copy of these handy wildlife checklists, to see how many different types of animals you spot.


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Panthers card low round of season
The Park Rapids boys golf team is peaking at the right time.
Tadd Usher said the Panthers had the talent to shoot a round under 330 this season. The Panthers fulfilled that goal at last Tuesday's Bagley Invitational.
Led by Ian Johnson's career-best 77, the Panthers carded a 327 at Bagley. Jamie Stewart's 81, Bailey Mueller's 82 and Dustin Bethel's 87 rounded out the Panthers' team score.
Despite meeting a team goal by shooting a round under 330, Park Rapids trailed five other teams in this tune up for the Section 8AA North meet, which will be held at Bagley on Thursday.
Roseau won the team title with a 309 while East Grand Forks (315), Warroad (318), Bagley (321) and Crookston (325) also finished ahead of the Panthers. Warroad's Casey Anderson and Bagley's Aaron Leintz shared medalist honors with 72s.
Team scores: Roseau 309, East Grand Forks 315, Warroad 318, Bagley 321, Crookston 325, Park Rapids 327, Thief River Falls 339, United North Central 383.
Individual results
Co-medalists: Casey Anderson, Warroad, and Aaron Leintz, Bagley, 72. 3, Will Czeh, Roseau, 74.
Park Rapids results
Ian Johnson 77, Jamie Stewart 81, Bailey Mueller 82, Dustin Bethel 87, Ryan DeLaHunt 89, Wyatt Derman 102.
Stewart earns Mid-Minn honors
Stewart earned all-conference honors as the Panthers finished third at the Mid-Minnesota Conference championship at Cragun's Legacy Courses May 21.
Stewart claimed the final all-conference spot with an 83. Staples-Motley's Nick Forsberg and Pequot Lakes' Alex Goerges shared medalist honors with 74s. Staples-Motley claimed the team title with a 382 while Pequot Lakes (416), Park Rapids (432) and Crosby-Ironton (450) followed.
Team scores: Staples-Motley 382, Pequot Lakes 416, Park Rapids 432, Crosby-Ironton 450.
All-conference golfers
Co-medalists: Nick Forsberg, S-M, and Alex Goerges, PL, 74. 3 (tie), Michael Strain, S-M, and Nevin Greer, PL, 75. 5, Andrew Israelson, S-M, 77. 6 (tie), Mitch Hagenson, S-M, and Dakota Waverek, S-M, 78. 8, Kevin Beltz, PL, 81. 9, Trent Hagenson, S-M, 82. 10, Jamie Stewart, PR, 83.
Panthers card 340 at Wadena
Bethel carded a career-best 82 as the Panthers finished third at the seven-team Wadena-Deer Creek Invitational on May19.
A trio of 86s by Mueller, Johnson and Wyatt Derman rounded out the Panthers' 340 team score. Mitch Hagenson and Michael Strain carded 76s as Staples-Motley took first with a 308.
Nevis finished fifth with a 368 behind Daniel Stacey's 91, a pair of 92s by Gunnar Netteberg and AJ Pappas, and a 93 by Matt Halik.
Luke Wurdock's 92 led United North Central to seventh place with a 382. Don Wurdock's 95, Gavin Michelson's 96 and 99s by Arik Hillukka and Noah Hendrickson completed the Warriors' team score.
Team scores: Staples-Motley 308, Grand Rapids 321, Park Rapids 340, Crosby-Ironton 363, Nevis 368, United North Central 382, Wadena-Deer Creek 412.
Individual results
Co-medalists: Mitch Hagenson, S-M, and Michael Strain, S-M, 76. 3, Trent Hagenson, S-M, 77.
Park Rapids results
Dustin Bethel 82, Bailey Mueller 86, Ian Johnson 86, Wyatt Derman 86, CJ Hess 92, Tristian Breitweser 107.
Nevis results
Daniel Stacey 91, Gunnar Netteberg 92, AJ Pappas 92, Matt Halik 93, Aaron Halik 95, Jacob Jordan 99.
United North Central results
Luke Wurdock 92, Don Wurdock 95, Gavin Michelson 96, Arik Hillukka 99, Noah Hendrickson 99, Aaron Paulson 106.


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Sympathy For The Devil -The Rolling Stones
Great song.
Video Rating: 4 / 5
Great song.
Video Rating: 4 / 5
Why would we want to have sympathy for the devil, he has no sympathy for us, he hates us, he is angry cos he knows he has a short time, him and his angels are heading to the lake of fire, the bottomless pit, where the fire is not quenched, outer darkness where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth, he's the theif that came to steal, kill and destroy, but Jesus saves
ke bella sta canzone 😀
Nice grammar Moron
Fuck you. Moutain is number 1
In Maiden s an was always better than Guns and Blowses
if you like guns n roses why you watch rolling stones
nd u call this shit rock?? seriously?? jst bcoz RS are an old band,they r mistaken 4 being gr8….its nt lyk dat dude….u cant call a band legendary jst bcoz it started out early….
gnr rullz!!
fuck off! do u hv ur brains in ur fuckin butt??!! gnr has produced some classics lyk paradise,sweet child,november,estranged…..dont fuckin say shit bout ppl whose lvl u cant evn reach in ur wildest dream….
Hey, you make a list of top bands, Queen are on the top, okay?
hahahaha lmao!
The live version they played at the end of the 60s / early 70s with more guitar is pretty interesting yet different. Both Keith & Mick T have solos in the song. Look up 'Get yer Ya-Ya's out".
Oh God! Everybody is all "Fuck you all Led Zeppelin number one", "Rolling Stones is number one"…. They have different styles that is why they are distinguishable. That's what makes music beautiful. Stop dissing! It's still fucking music!
my 1 of 2 songs at my funeral[in my will] best stones ever
yes they are
y is there a dislike button on this song ?
but r they still playing
at 60 years old i have to say one of the best bands ever there r so many they r top ten
Satan knows his fate will be the lake of fire!!! (Rev 20:10)


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Under the terms of an agreement with BLR Aerospace, Landmark Aviation has become an authorized dealer for the Everett, Wash.-based aerospace research and development firm. The arrangement allows five Landmark Aviation locations, previously designated as Raytheon authorized service centers, to install winglets designed, certified and manufactured by BLR for King Air 200s. The authorized Landmark Aviation sites are located in Leesburg, Norfolk and Roanoke, Va.; and Winston-Salem and Greensboro, N.C.
"This agreement is a logical extension of our relationship with BLR and takes advantage of the experienced technicians and familiarity we have gained over years of working on Raytheon-produced aircraft," said Bob Fox, Landmark Aviation's regional director of maintenance. "The technology provides significant enhancements to the King Air 200's performance and represents another opportunity for us to offer our longstanding Raytheon Aircraft customer base a significant and cost-effective improvement to their aircraft."
BLR Aerospace was founded in 1992 to provide productivity, performance and safety enhancements to general aviation aircraft using its expertise in airflow manipulation technology. The company has received approximately 60 FAA supplemental type certificates (STC) since its founding.
Separately, Landmark Aviation's Associated Air Center on Dallas Love Field has received FAA designated alteration station certification. It authorizes the aircraft completion center to act on behalf of the FAA to issue STCs and experimental airworthiness certificates and to amend standard airworthiness certificates.
"Associated Air Center has demonstrated to the FAA the highest level of quality and integrity in its entire aircraft modification process, from the initial engineering design to the finished aircraft," said Associated Air Center president Jeff Bosque. "This certification covers all of our work including designing and installing safety and flight-management systems, room décors, furnishings, entertainment systems and passenger seating. It also will allow us to streamline our build and delivery cycle. Ultimately it benefits our customers by reducing aircraft downtime."
Landmark Aviation's Springfield, Ill. aircraft repair and completion center, which provides modifications for business jets ranging in size from the Raytheon Hawker and Beechjet to the Bombardier Global Express, also holds DAS certification.


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The BlackBerry Q20 is expected to be launched in the second half of the year, and will be equipped with a 3.5 inch screen. That would be the largest screen ever employed on a QWERTY-equipped 'Berry. The handset will also come with a larger battery and will bring back some "old-school" features like a touchpad and function keys.
Another possible model is the device currently code named the BlackBerry Windermere. This is an oddly shaped phone with a wide-body and a strange looking QWERTY keyboard. There is speculation that the keyboard will work by not only pressing on the keys like a regular physical QWERTY, but will also be touch-sensitive. BlackBerry is also believed to be working on a model that will be powered by a 64-bit octa-core processor. Originally thought to be ready in 2015, a later report had BlackBerry pushing up development of the phone in an attempt to rush it out by this September.
The CEO also brought up the possibility of offering a version of BBM for the desktop. "We are certainly going to take a very serious look at putting BBM on the desktop," said Chen. Last month, the executive said that BBM could go "beyond handsets and the phone." Once a BlackBerry exclusive, BBM is now available for iOS and Android with a version for Windows Phone expected soon.
source: Reuters


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Shady Side girls end solid season with playoff loss
Coach Audrey Scott's Shady Side Academy girls basketball team lost in the first round of the WPIAL Class AA playoffs but Scott, though disappointed, saw many positives in the 10-13 campaign.
"It was tough to lose to Washington," Scott said. "We thought we could go farther into the playoffs. We adjusted and played them even for the last three quarters but we had too far to come back."
As far as the regular season, Scott felt the team did what it was supposed to do.
"We won every game we were supposed to win," Scott said. "There were a few games that we lost that we could have won, like West Shamokin, Jeannette and Riverview. But we're happy that we made the playoffs and we're hoping to do it again next year."
The Indians will lose three seniors — starting point guard Jane Sheerer and key reserves Rebecca Donahue and Pia Campbell.
"All three contributed largely to our success," Scott said. "Losing Jane will hurt us. Whenever she came out of a game, we struggled replacing her. There were games where I couldn't even give her a break and she'd wind up playing the whole game. Most of our other guards are two guards and that'll be one of our big tasks for next year, replacing Jane at the point."
Scott is upbeat about the players returning.
"We'll have four starters back, led by Gabby Harchelroad and Natalie Palmer, and we'll have most of our bench back," she said.
She'll also be looking for some help from this year's JV team.
"We struggled getting enough players for JVs over the last few years," Scott said. "This year, we were able to put together a team, although we only had seven players. We had to cancel a few games because of illness and injury. Three of the girls had never played organized basketball before. The team only won one game but they really did show some improvement over the course of the season.
"We've also got some good eighth-grade girls coming up who will contribute to the JV and possibly varsity teams," she said.
Scott might need the extra help as the recent WPIAL realignment made the section much tougher.
"We've got Burrell in our section next year and they'll have everybody coming back. Greensburg Central Catholic is still in the section and they have everybody back, too. Those two teams will probably be battling it out for first and second in the section. We're looking forward to the challenge," Scott said.
Marty Stewart is a sports editor for Trib Total Media. He can be reached at 412-782-2123 or firstname.lastname@example.com.


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SwingSmart Duo Golf Analyser Apple Devices
£175.95 £189.95
The Swingsmart due golf swing analyser for apple and Android devices is amongst the top golf swing aids in the world.Accurately review your swing on your smartphone.
Product details
Discover the Secret to Improving Your Golf Swing!
Invented by Golfers for Golfers, we love this golf swing analysis gadget.
It's simple to use, and utilises the latest technology to make detailed golf swing analysis simple.
Ideal for both beginners and the experienced golfer, it's a great tool for improving your game.
Easy to use…
The SwingSmart Golf Analyser discreetly clips to the underside of the shaft of your golf club (it works with every club in your bag, including your putter). All you need to do is fire up the free SwingSmart app for golf on your iPad or iPhone, tell the app what club you're using and take a swing! The Bluetooth®-enabled sensor module will then instantly and wirelessly transmit key information about your golf swing to your iPad or iPhone.
Detailed Golf Swing Analysis
You then get instant, easy-to-understand feedback to your iPad,iPhone or Android device on each swing, and see exactly what your club was doing during motion. The SwingSmart Golf Analyser measures four key statistics; tempo, swing speed, angle of attack and face angle. This gives you all information you need to analyse and improve your golf swing.
3D Swing View
A great feature of the SwingSmart Golf Analyser is the unique 3D Swing View, which shows the path of your golf swing from any angle on your iPad,iPhone or Android device. You can also save your "best" swing and use this as a benchmark to compare yourself with and improve your consistency.
While there's no need to interrupt your practice session or game, you can review every shot as you go if you wish, perhaps to see what caused that poor stroke so you can correct it. It's great to review your round of golf at your leisure (perhaps at the 19th hole!) You can also e-mail your golf swing to your instructor for additional feedback, or directly to your computer.
A great teaching aid
The SwingSmart Golf Analyser is increasingly popular with golf instructors as a tool to measure and analyse a client's golf swing, and then show in detail what they are doing right, and what they need to work on.


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Anisa, A 10th Grader In Afghanistan, Murdered For Attending School
Anisa, a young
Afghani Afghan woman who had just completed the 10th grade, was murdered outside her home on Sunday, hit by six or seven bullets in her stomach. She had already survived a previous assassination attempt one day prior — likely for being a young woman who dared to make a life for herself.
Anisa volunteered at a polio vaccine clinic run by the Ministry for Public Health and attended a school for girls. One news report said Anisa was in her early 20s, while another said she was 16 years old. In any case, the UK Guardian claimed she received a phone call threatening her life if she left her home on the day she died. (A Taliban spokesperson denied involvement in the murder, although other sources doubt that is true.)
Anisa's murder is most likely intended to scare other women and girls from existing in civil society as equals to men: going to school, working, and volunteering. This level of intimidation is another type of violence against women. Another woman from Anisa's neighborhood told the UK Guardian that she's received threatening phone calls simply for holding down a job. Bravely, she won't be cowed.
Anisa's death is reminiscent of the shooting of Malala, a 14-year-old girl in Pakistan who was shot and injured by the Taliban for being a girls' education activist. Malala was airlifted to the UK, where she has been recovering since last month.
What a shocking reminder of what we all take for granted.
[Guardian UK]
[UN Dispatch]
[Tolo News]
Contact the author of this post at [email protected] Follow me on Twitter.


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I could not bring myself to do a "High-5" College Football Contest video for picks this week. Normally, I proudly wear my favorite Georgia Bulldogs Original Retro Brand t-shirt and football helmet to ham it up for the camera, but after a humiliating defeat at the hands of the Mississippi State Bulldogs (Georgia now 0-3 in the SEC – are you kidding me???!!!!), I simply could not utter a syllable. Wasn't it enough to have the Hogs Ryan Mallet rip my heart out last week against the DAWGS before doing it again in his meltdown against the Tide?! Eeesh…
Outside of my sucky pick of Notre Dame over Stanford, and the "Mallet Meltdown", I did great in my picks last week! Roughly 50 people (out of 60 entries) picked more games correctly than me – I'm the Georgia Bulldogs of the "High-5" contest! My running record now stands at 10 -5. Most entries picked 4 out of 5 correctly, but seemed to get tripped up by the South Carolina – Auburn game. There were 4 entries (out of 54) who picked all 5 games correctly, and thus we went to a drawing to determine the winner of the FREE Original Retro Brand T-shirt. Ted Turich of Denver, Colorado, was the winner and chose this Michigan State Rose Bowl shirt as his prize. Here's what Ted had to say after hearing the good news; "Wow! That is awesome news! I cannot believe I won! First, let me say that I absolutely love Original Retro Brand clothing. It is the main focus of my style and unbelievably, a sports shirt that my wife loves! She just requested that I do not get another beer t-shirt ( I already own four)!" Congrats & Thanks Ted! Before we get to this week's matchups, if this is your first week playing in the "High-5? contest, you can see the quick & easy rules in the body of this post. Now let's get down to business!
GAME 1: # 21 Texas vs. # 8 Oklahoma – I knew Texas wasn't Texas this year, but who the H*** could have seen UCLA trouncing them in their own crib like they did? The Sooners had their hands full with the Bearcats and Air Force the past two weeks, and haven't looked so great either. Regardless, in the 105th meeting of these 2 teams in this "Red River Rivalry", "Give me a T for Trouble (for Texas)" OKLAHOMA – 35, TEXAS – 28.
GAME 2: # 11 Wisconsin @ # 24 Michigan State – The Badgers come in 4-0 against NOBODY, and the Spartans ain't no Austin Peay. The Spartans come in 4-0 against basically NOBODY (sorry Notre Dame) and the Badgers ain't no Florida Atlantic. Vegas has this as a pick em' for good reason, but I'll go with gang green based on home field advantage, Coach Dantonio being in the press box, and Bubba Smith was my favorite football player of all time (a ridiculous reason for sure; Bubba was NFL's # 1 draft choice out of MSU in 1967). MICHIGAN STATE – 42, WISCONSIN – 28.
GAME 3: # 9 Stanford @ # 4 Oregon – I love this Pac-10 palooza. Many folks saying the Ducks are way overrated. Yeah, averaging 58 points a game ain't that good. I bet against Stanford last week and boy did I screw up on that one. The Tree trounced an apparently good UCLA team on the road a few weeks ago, and just embarrassed the Fighting Irish in another road win. Sorry Oregon, but Andrew Luck & the Cardinal are road tested and win at the Duck Pond. STANFORD – 36, OREGON – 33.
GAME 4: # 22 Penn State @ # 17 Iowa – Another BIG-10 pick em' the way I see it. I love the Hawkeyes Adam Robinson near the goal line – he is a BULL. Ricky Stanzi's stats caught my eye simply because they are bizzare; 99 attempts, 999 yds, 9 TD's. Hawkeyes dressed to the 9's (Couldn't help myself). IOWA – 26, PENN STATE – 17.
GAME 5: # 7 Florida @ # 1 Alabama – The aforementioned "Mallet Meltdown" was my one-sided, sore loser view of what really went down in Arkansas. BAMA never panicked, and did what Champions do to win. Did I say not to worry about Mark Ingram? Eeesh again…. The Gators fumbled their way to victory in their first few contests and looked sloppy, but they are starting to gel, and that means problems for any team they face. Dare I pick against Alabama for the second week in a row in my upset special? Dare, I do! AND I HATE THE GATORS!! FLORIDA – 28, ALABAMA – 21.
Well I haven't picked all 5 games yet in 3 weeks, but this is my week! E-mail your picks to email@example.com and let's see what you got suckers!! Be sure to get them in before kickoff Saturday to be counted.
Parting FYI's: Friday's ORB "5 Questions with…" interview features College & NFL Hall of Famer, Lee Roy Selmon – this guy is one of the most humble and extraordinary individuals I've ever had the honor to speak with – just an amazing guy…..Going to see legendary Georgia Coach Vince Dooley at the Touchdown Club of Atlanta this coming Monday (Will be raffling off ORB T-shirts) in hopes he will bring much needed luck to his alma mater against Colorado.


text:
Feasibility Study to Evaluate the Safety of Topically Applied Revera in Subjects With Venous Leg Ulcers
This study has been completed.
Revalesio Corporation
Information provided by (Responsible Party):
Revalesio Corporation
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
First received: January 13, 2009
Last updated: June 22, 2012
Last verified: June 2012
- Full Text View
- Tabular View
- No Study Results Posted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
No Study Results Posted on ClinicalTrials.gov for this Study
|Study Status:
|This study has been completed.
|Study Completion Date:
|October 2010
|Primary Completion Date:
|October 2010 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)


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3 Things Worth Thinking About (Vol. 2)Written by admin | Jul, 31, 2014
Last week, I started a new weekly series entitled "3 Things Worth Thinking About." The focus here will be three things, ironically enough, that are worth considering with respect to your portfolio and related investments. As I have discussed many times previously, focusing only on "bullish" commentary when markets are rising is really of little use as it creates a "blind spot" to related investment risks. The same goes for when markets are falling. These cognitive biases get in the way of making logical and disciplined investment decisions to not only garner returns when markets rise, but avoid depletion of capital when they don't.
I hope you will enjoy this series, and I welcome your feedback or suggestions (email or tweet)
1) Effect Of Buybacks On Earnings & Revenue
Let me start by saying that I do not disagree that improving earnings and revenue have indeed been important to the rise of the markets over the last 5 years. However, impact of a surge in corporate borrowing in order to reduce outstanding shares has begun to distort the level of actual profitability of corporations. The chart below shows how share purchases have elevated both operating and reported earnings as well as revenue per share.
This is an important concept because there is a major difference between what is happening at the bottom line of the income statement and the top line. While earnings can be inflated through the use of a myriad of accounting tactics, share manipulation and tax avoidance, As shown in the chart below, sales per share growth has grossly lagged both earnings and the inflation of asset of prices. As you can see, sales per share, has only risen by a little more than 5% annually since 2009, while the earnings have run between 34% and 46%.
The primary reason that companies have resorted to stock buybacks so heavily since the beginning of 2011 is because the beneficial effects of cost cutting, increasing productivity and reducing employee counts has been almost entirely exhausted. However, with sales growth slow, which is a representation of real economic strength, corporations remain reluctant to increase costs or employment any more than what is required by population growth.
Without a pickup in actual sales growth in the quarters ahead, which would require significant improvement to economic growth caused by rising wages and production, the lofty expectations for continued earnings expansion will likely disappoint. This is a significant risk to the ongoing bull market thesis.
2) Employment Report
Tomorrow brings another employment report with all eyes focused on the headline number. It will not be surprising to see a print above the 200,000 level which, has it has been over the past 48 months, remained roughly in line with working age(16-54) population growth. However, the beginning of 2009, employment has been outpaced by population growth overall.
This factor alone brings into dispute the 6.1% unemployment rate which would suggest that 93.9% of the working age population is gainfully employed. The problem with that assumption is that while total employment has grown by 5.4% since the beginning of 2009, the number of individuals that are no longer counted as part of the workforce has grown by over 14%.
However, the most important aspect to watch tomorrow will be the number of "full-time" jobs created. As I have discussed previously, it is only full-time employment, which provides higher wages and benefits, that fosters household formation growth and higher levels of consumption. This is crucially important to an economy that is almost 70% driven by consumption alone. As shown in the chart below, the number of full-time jobs as a percentage of the working-age population has failed to improve much at all. This is the effect of corporations reducing high-cost employment in order to boost profitability.
This is also an issue that fails to support the idea that the economy is set to come "roaring" back to life. While GDP did print 4% for the second quarter, the decline in final sales and income suggests that the bounce back from the dismal first quarter report is likely transient.
3) High Yield Debt Default Risk
Earlier this week I discussed the "Misunderstandings Around The End Of QE" in which I made the following statement:
"I think the real risk lies in the 'high yield' space where yields are at historic lows and complacency reigns. Anything that upsets the delicate balance of confidence could lead to a panic based selloff that would resemble the 2008 financial crisis."
At that time, it was just a speculation that was only beginning to take shape considering the very narrow spread between "junk bond yields" and government bonds. Such abnormalities in rates can not last indefinitely and will eventually revert to more normal levels. The negative consequences to holders of such securities when that occurs can be devastating. It also means that the companies that issued the "junk bonds" to begin with will likely default on those debts during increase in rates that cuts off their ability to finance their survival.
Today, Fitch warned that the "high yield" default rate is set to jump. To wit:
"A potential bankruptcy filing from another struggling giant, Caesars Entertainment Operating Co., would propel the trailing 12-month US high yield default rate to 3.4% from its June perch of 2.7%, according to Fitch Ratings. With its $12.9 billion in bonds in Fitch's default index, the gaming company's impact on the default rate is pronounced – similar to Energy Future Holdings' (EFH) April bankruptcy. Caesars also adds to notable trends of busted LBOs and the exclusive camp of serial defaulters.
There have been 10 LBO related bond defaults thus far in 2014, compared with nine for all of 2013. The failed LBOs affected $21.8 billion in bonds this year and 26% of all bond defaults since 2008. Caesars would bring the latter tally to 29%. In addition, a Caesars filing would follow two prior restructurings via distressed debt exchanges (DDEs). Since 2008, 24% of issuers engaged in DDEs have subsequently filed for bankruptcy.
June defaults included Affinion Group, Allen Systems Group, MIG LLC, and Altegrity Inc., bringing the year-to-date high yield default tally to 20 issuers of $23.7 billion in bonds versus an issuer count of 19 and dollar value of $8.4 billion in first-half 2013. July defaults have so far included Essar Steel Algoma and Windsor Petroleum Transport.
At midmonth, approximately $33 billion in high yield bonds were trading at 90% of par or less – a relatively modest 2.9% of the $1.1 trillion in bonds with price data."
From an investment standpoint. a crisis in the high-yield market the spurs an investment panic could spread rapidly through the financial markets. With investors having "chased yield" to a massive extent over the past 5-years, the panic to exit the space could be overwhelming.
This is an area that should be monitored closely.
As I started out by saying, bullish and bearish arguments are great. However, they do not help us manage risk unless they can be put into some context. My goal each week will be simply to pick out issues where potential risks might be overlooked and bring those to light for you to consider.
With our portfolio models currently fully allocated, I admit that I am just a little more than uncomfortable at present. However, the technical trends of the market remain broadly positively which forces me to keep assets invested with risk reduction being accomplished through asset allocation and proactive rebalancing. Importantly, there are early signs of technical deterioration of market internals that have historically only been prevalent before short to intermediate term market correction. I am watching those indications closely and will alert you should anything more substantial develop.


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Promote your business inside the kitchen with this Vierge Bamboo Kitchen Utensil Set!
It is a common trend for most business enterprises to offer business related promotional gifts to their customers, clients or employees because advertisements generally focus on business to business needs. But sometimes prospective leads for a business can be earned from the kitchen when promotional gifts are selected from a range of cooking, serving and household products.
There is nothing wrong in choosing corporate gifts that are highly used in homes and kitchens rather than on office desks. In fact, sometimes, business promotions through household items give better returns than business to business advertising ideas. If you want to implement this kitchen based marketing strategy for your business, get our promotional Vierge Bamboo Kitchen Utensil Set for your clients, customers and employees.
Crafted from high quality and eco-friendly materials, this utensil set includes four items; spoon, fork, tongs and a spatula. All these utensils are made from FDA compliant bamboo and well packed in matching holder made from the same material. The size of this 4-piece utensil set is 33/8"W x 12"H x 33/8"D and it weighs 1.33 pounds. Compact in size and design, and simple yet elegant in appearance, this set becomes the center of attraction when placed on any dining table while serving lunch or dinner.
Word-of-mouth publicity is an effective marketing technique with high potential. So, capture the attention of every guest who arrives at your client's place and enjoy their appreciation for your useful gift. For the generous brand exposure of your company, imprint your brand name, logo or business message on the holder for a setup charge of only $56.25.
Labels: 4-piece utensil set, household items, Kitchen Utensil Set, promotional Vierge Bamboo Kitchen Utensil Set, utensil set


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WASHINGTON (Reuters) - When audit firm KPMG said late on Monday it had parted ways with two corporate audit clients and a senior partner over information leaks used in alleged insider trading, the partner's identity was initially a mystery.
The name of Scott London, a KPMG veteran, emerged late on Tuesday, but would likely have been known sooner if the panel that regulates the audit industry had adopted a proposed rule to require disclosure of audit engagement partners.
The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, aiming to shine more light on public company audits, proposed the rule in October 2011, but has not enacted it.
"We don't know how many other audits of public companies this person did," said Lynn Turner, former chief accountant for the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. "It is a shame the PCAOB has elected not to move forward with this significant proposal," he said.
Nutritional products group Herbalife and footwear maker Skechers revealed separately on Tuesday that KPMG had quit as their auditor in connection with alleged leaks of nonpublic information.
The FBI in Los Angeles is investigating, according to a source familiar with the situation.
KPMG, which at first did not name the partner who had resigned, later confirmed it was London.
London could not be reached for comment.
The U.S. Congress created the PCAOB under the 2002 Sarbanes-Oxley Act to police corporate auditors after accounting blow-ups at companies such as former energy giant Enron Corp.
The panel has been exploring the idea of requiring the identity of the so-called engagement partners, those who oversee the audits, since 2009.
Some investor advocates as well as PCAOB Chairman Jim Doty champion the idea. Last week, Doty said that identifying the audit engagement partner "may help the investing public identify and judge quality, leading to better auditing."
But the Big Four accounting firms, which includes KPMG, have opposed the idea, convinced it would be of little use to investors, could increase legal liability and deter auditors from tackling high-risk audit jobs.
"We believe that disclosing the name of the engagement partner ... may create a misunderstanding of the role and responsibility of the firm in issuing the audit report," KPMG wrote in a January 5, 2012 comment letter to the PCAOB.
A KPMG spokesman did not respond to a request for comment.
A PCAOB spokeswoman declined to comment on the KPMG matter, but said the transparency proposal is expected to be either adopted or re-proposed sometime between April and September.
If the PCAOB were to adopt the rule, it would still need final SEC approval. SEC Commissioner Luis Aguilar, a Democrat, said the PCAOB's proposal is "a common practice in other countries" and "worthy of serious consideration by the PCAOB."
Jason Flemmons, a former deputy chief accountant in the SEC's enforcement division, now a senior managing director at FTI Consulting, said he was unconvinced investors would change their behavior if they knew the identity of the auditor earlier.
The important thing, he said, would be that the SEC will easily be able to get the information it needs.
"I imagine they are all over this," he said of the SEC.
Editing by Kevin Drawbaugh and Leslie Gevirtz