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We just got a big shipment in of the new Organic Penny Skateboards! Check them out over at our website where they are for sale at a great price. We are still waiting on the Grey/White/Green, but we currently have a healthy stock of the following Organic Penny Boards! These are the super fun rip-able little boards for cruising the streets or bombing hills. Best of all they are environmentally friendly due to the biodegradable decks. Bury the deck in the ground when your done with it, and it will turn to dirt over time.
- Penny Organic Skateboard – Dark Green Grey White Yellow
- Penny Organic Skateboard – Brown Green Orange
- Penny Organic Skateboard – Light Green White Blue


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Preventing moisture from getting trapped in the building envelope is key to constructing long-lasting homes that stay dry and comfortable. Most of the construction details that help to keep a home dry are simple to install. Designed to provide builders and homeowners the construction guidelines they need to protect their homes against damaging moisture infiltration, the Build a Better Home program from APA encourages better building practices for the key elements of a residential structure: roofs, walls, and the foundation.
Throughout the world, properly constructed wood homes have lasted for centuries. Wood has been the building material of choice for residential and light commercial builders because of its strength and durability. However, an increasing number of homes are encountering moisture-related problems. Growing public concern, and a shortage of well-trained construction trade professionals point to the need for an extensive education outreach program to educate builders, design professionals and homeowners on how to properly install and detail engineered wood materials used in residential construction to protect homes against damaging moisture infiltration.
Today's value-engineered home features the extensive use of engineered wood—resource-efficient, high-performance building products used in floor, wall and roof construction.
These products—such as plywood, oriented strand board, glued laminated timber, and wood I-joists—improve upon many of the inherent structural advantages of wood while also providing environmental benefits. They use more of the available resource with very little waste, for example, and compare favorably with non-wood products based on such criteria as embodied energy and emissions of carbon dioxide and other pollutants during manufacture.
Engineered wood products provide outstanding structural performance. However, like all building materials, their performance properties can be compromised by the intrusion of moisture.
APA's Build a Better Home program provides education on proper moisture control techniques in construction applications, including cover groundwork, foundations, floors, walls, and roofs.
This video segment is excerpted from the Build A Better Home: Moisture Control in Residential Construction video produced by APA. You can purchase the complete 25-minute video from the APA Publications Library. Please refer to current APA literature and consult your local jurisdiction or design professional to assure proper compliance with code, construction and performance requirements.
Take a short survey.
Not now.

subset: commoncrawl


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Today's guest blogger is Christopher Hertz, founder and CEO of New Signature, an IT consulting firm that provides IT solutions to more than 300 clients. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., New Signature works with organizations of all sizes including small- and mid-sized, enterprise, and public sector customers.
Hurricane Sandy was an eye-opener for many businesses, especially those on the East Coast, who witnessed firsthand the challenges of keeping an on-premises IT environment up-and-running during a natural disaster. After Hurricane Sandy, a steady stream of small- and mid-sized customers moved to the cloud in an effort to improve their business continuity.
Our small business customers have adopted Office 365 the most quickly. Larger enterprises have tended to move to Office 365 more slowly because of their more complex business requirements. They tend to adopt the cloud in phases, often first migrating employees in a single region or business department before deciding to move all of their information workers to the cloud. Overall, we've seen a lot of traction among large enterprises across all sectors — even those that were once reluctant such as the legal and financial industries.
To date, we've helped about 150 customers implement Office 365. While the majority had been using on-premise software, over a dozen have switched from Google Apps for Business. Our customers tell us they love Office 365 because it offers top value for the dollar. Here are the many ways Office 365 advances their businesses:
- A unified platform that significantly boosts productivity: It's not just Exchange Online, SharePoint Online, or Lync Online by itself that's significant to our customers. It's how all of these products work together as a unified platform that clients find compelling. Together, these products provide an extensible productivity and collaboration platform that help our clients save significant time and effort. Google Apps is a bunch of consumer services that have been cobbled together to work for businesses. Most of our customers who evaluate Google Apps realize that pretty quickly. They choose Office 365 because it offers them a unified platform to perform their jobs effectively.
- The ability to be productive right out of the gate: The main reason our customers abandon Google Apps is that they struggle with how to use it at work. When companies adopt Google Apps, they've usually over-estimated what Google Apps can do and underestimated how much experience their employees have with Microsoft Office. With Office 365, organizations don't have to pay for training because their employees already know how to use it. With a move to Google Apps, all of that knowledge is lost. The business productivity and IT service desk costs eventually add up, driving organizations back to Microsoft Office.
- Enterprise-level support: Some of our customers have left Google Apps complaining of bad customer service. When it comes to enterprise applications such as email and documents, a self-service model quickly becomes a detriment. Google is still struggling to develop a culture of customer service. By contrast, Microsoft has a long record of enterprise-level support services. Microsoft offers 24/7 technical phone support for solving critical issues within all of its business plans. It also offers email support, virtual chat support, pre-sales support, and account and billing support.
- Lower capital and administrative costs: IT professionals often embrace Office 365 because of their desire to eliminate routine maintenance tasks. Under pressure to cut costs, many IT professionals want to turn their departments from a cost center into a more strategic department that helps the business gain a competitive advantage. With Office 365, IT departments no longer have to spend money on servers or storage, or do all that's required to maintain and manage an on-premises IT environment. This frees up IT professionals to serve a more strategic role in the organization and focus on moving their business forward.
- Access to the latest Microsoft technology: Another advantage of Office 365 is that it gives organizations access to the latest and greatest Microsoft technology as soon as it emerges. Customers receive access to updates as soon as they're developed, allowing them to take advantage of all the new innovation coming out of Microsoft. What's more, they never overpay for technology because they're only paying for what they use. If they're not ready for it, they don't have to use it. And if they are ready, they have a great many capabilities available to them at low cost.
These are just a few of the ways in which Office 365 provides top value. In fact, I've never known an instance in which it made more financial sense for a company to remain on-premises. There may be business reasons for doing so, but from a financial standpoint, migrating to the cloud is always the best move. For organizations that make that decision, Office 365 truly offers the best value and the most complete solution — one that can significantly transform their business.


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I love buying fat quarters of fabric since it's the perfect size to experiment with–enough fabric to make a project or two, but not so much that it will sit around your house taking up room. So I love that We Wilsons has a great purse tutorial up that uses exactly one fat quarter. [via One Pretty Thing]
HOW TO – Fat Quarter Purse


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Actually, my team isn't for sale, but rather I am bowing out of the league. I have already informed Rim, so he will be the one to find someone to take over the dog I am leaving behind. I want to thank everyone involved for making it the best league i have ever taken part in. Whomever gets to take my place is joining a great group of guys. Sometimes i think we get along too well.
As for why i am leaving, I just have too many other things to do to give this the effort it deserves. My wife, graduate school, my new job, and my church resposibilities all have to come before this. I guess its time to grow up.
I wish all of my former opponents the best and good luck to the lucky guy that gets my forward laden team. Maybe you will be willing to make the trade that will put it over the top.


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POLICE investigating Monday's (February 17) fatal road traffic collision on Yokesford Hill, Romsey have named the driver who died.
Margaret Stone, 75, from Leckford, near Stockbridge, was travelling from Romsey towards Stockbridge, when her blue Vauxhall Meriva collided with a refuse lorry between Bunny Lane and Jinny's Lane. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Paying tribute, her family issued this statement: "Margaret was full of life and was always an active member of her community, from her early days in the Girl's Brigade, through to her time as Akela in the Scouting movement, and as a volunteer at Cherry Orchard care home in Andover.
"With her husband of 44 years, Michael, she was a keen member of churches in Leckford and Romsey, the support they received from these communities was brilliant and valued.
"Since losing Michael five years ago, Margaret had been making a new life for herself and was in the process of moving to Romsey. She loved travel and enjoyed good food and quality time with friends and family and will be sorely missed by the many people whose lives she touched."


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DETROIT - Construction has begun to redevelop downtown Detroit's historic, but empty David Whitney Building.
Once work is completed, the 19-story Woodward Avenue property will include a 136-room Aloft Detroit hotel and 105 one- and two-bedroom apartment units.
Gov. Rick Snyder switched on a ceremonial light during an event Thursday in the Whitney's expansive atrium, which is in disrepair and features graffiti.
The Republican governor says the property "was a problem for a lot of years" and now represents an opportunity.
Snyder says he hopes the work being done at the Whitney will lead to redevelopment projects elsewhere in the city.
The $82 million redevelopment project also will include the addition of a restaurant, lounge, fitness center and banquet space.
Read more: Dan Gilbert to unveil downtown Detroit development plan Thursday
Slideshow: Inside the Whitney Building during "The Next Big Thing" event in 2011
Copyright 2013 by ClickOnDetroit.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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December 29, 2012 -- A major, though still unnamed, China biopharma bought a prestigious San Francisco-area biotech campus (it formerly belonged to Bayer) and will disclose its plans for the site next month; HitGen and Viva Biotech, two China CROs specializing in early-stage services, will partner up to provide an early-stage hit-to-lead-generation program; Naton Medical, a Beijing maker of orthopedic products, joined with two Malaysia-based medical device companies, OSA Niaga and Straits Orthopedics, to form a Malaysian JV; and India will locate its own drug inspection office in China in March of 2013, complete with four full-time inspectors. More details….
Stock Symbol: (Xetra: BAY)


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164 Union Ave.
Memphis, TN 38103
Sale Amount: $3.2 million
Sale Date: Dec. 5, 2012
A Nashville investor has paid $3.2 million for the 120-room Roberts Benchmark Hotel at 164 Union Ave. in Downtown.
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Achieving better voice quality: why smartphones need 3 microphones
While mobile devices continue to play a prominent role in people's lives, voice quality has not improved significantly since the introduction of mobile phones. This is due primarily to network and device limitations, since the sound frequency range used by mobile devices has historically been constrained by narrowband, circuit-switched networks, resulting in lower voice quality than that of a face-to-face conversation.
In addition, mobile devices have been unable to adequately separate the user's voice from background noise, forcing users to tolerate noisy, poor quality voice communication. After years of mobile network infrastructure investments in bandwidth and connectivity, mobile network operators (MNOs) are now turning their attention to voice and audio quality as a way to differentiate their service offerings by improving the user experience, satisfaction, and loyalty.
The transition from narrowband to wideband communications (i.e., HDVoice, VoLTE) yields networks capable of carrying signals of higher sound quality. As users become aware of these network and device improvements, we expect they will demand improved voice quality in the devices they depend upon, even when used on legacy narrowband networks.
Dedicated voice and audio processors are expanding rapidly as a new product category, not only in mobile handsets but also in market segments such as automobile infotainment systems, desktop PCs, digital cameras, digital televisions, headsets, and set-top boxes. IDC, an independent market research firm, estimates that voice and audio processor unit sales will grow from 63 million units in 2012 to over 1.6 billion units in 2015, representing a CAGR of 92%.
A variety of trends are driving demand for high-quality voice and audio solutions in mobile devices, including:
- users requiring more freedom in how and where they communicate;
- users expecting high-quality voice and audio from their mobile devices;
- voice becoming a preferred interface for mobile device applications;
- users increasingly relying on their mobile devices for far-field interaction, where the mobile device is held remotely from the user, such as in speakerphone mode or video conferencing;
- users' perception of the HD video experience as negatively impacted by poor quality audio;
- OEMs continuing to expand functionality in mobile devices; and
- MNOs deploying wideband communications networks.
These trends, in turn, introduce challenges to delivering high-quality voice and audio in mobile devices, including:
- providing high quality even when used in noisy environments;
- working with the significant limitations on acoustics and signal processing imposed by the size, cost and power constraints of mobile devices; and
- implementing voice and audio signal processing techniques that are scalable and adaptable to dynamic sound environments in a way traditional technology has not been able to provide.
Enabling technologies
A field of auditory research called CASA (computational auditory scene analysis) aims to mimic the intelligibility of the human ear to separate sound sources by using conventional digital signal processing principles. The classic example is the 'cocktail party effect': the human ear is able to hone in on a particular conversation and separate the desired conversation from others. From the perspective of speech intelligibility, these other conversations are considered 'babble' noise, an actual standard type of 'distractor' used to test phones equipped with voice processing.
In a single microphone system, monaural cues such as frequency pitch and onset time can be used to separate sound sources. But humans have two ears for a reason: the additional binaural information provides the brain with the ability to distinguish subtle differences in both time of arrival – inter-aural time difference (ITD) – and the level of audio signals arriving at each ear –inter-aural level difference (ILD). The principle of binaural processing in CASA relies on the interpretation of ITD and ILD cues to separate sound sources.
For human listeners, ITD and ILD provide cues in complementary frequency ranges, at least for the ideal scenario of a point sound source in a free-field such as an outdoors location or in an anechoic chamber (i.e., an enclosed space insulated from noise and echoes).
ILDs are most pronounced at frequencies above approximately 1.5 kHz because it is at these frequencies that a person's head is large compared to the wavelength of the incoming sound, thus producing a reflection.
On the other hand, ITDs exist at all frequencies, However, they can only be decoded unambiguously if the ITD is less than half the period of the wavelength at that frequency. For the spacing between ears on a human head, this leads to a maximum frequency of about 1.5 kHz, at which point we can use ITD. Note that since the 2 'ears' of a phone are closer together, we can actually increase this frequency range. This explains why it can be advantageous to have closely spaced microphones – we will come back to this later.
ILD, ITD, and other acoustic attributes such as pitch, harmonics, onset time, and time spacing of sound components are used to characterize, separate, and eventually spatially locate multiple sound sources. Following this sound separation, a classification or grouping of sound sources is made to distinguish between desired (talker) and undesired (distractor) sound sources. Finally, a 'voice isolation' stage identifies the sound of interest, eliminating noise and other audio to deliver clear voice.


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Emergency Management Official to Keynote General Meeting of the League of Women Voters
Fairfax County Office of Public
12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 551
Fairfax, VA 22035-0065
Feb. 11, 2005
Emergency Management Official to Keynote
General Meeting of the League of Women Voters
William (Bill) MacKay, deputy director of the Fairfax County Office of Emergency Management, will be the featured speaker at the League of Women Voters of the Fairfax Area general meeting on Saturday, Feb. 26. His topic will be homeland security and the role of the Fairfax County Office of Emergency Management.
MacKay is a 25-year veteran of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department and most recently served as battalion chief, Special Operations, which included responsibility for the Hazardous Materials Response Team and emergency preparedness for the county's Fire and Rescue Department. MacKay has also served as a consultant to the United States Fire Administration in Emmitsburg, Md. As deputy director of the Office of Emergency Management, MacKay is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the office and is responsible for providing guidance to various county agencies in the preparation for, response to and recovery from natural and man-made events.
The general meeting will be held at the Heart in Hand Restaurant, 7145 Main Street in Clifton. Registration begins at 10 a.m., the program begins at 11 a.m., and lunch will be served at 12:15 p.m. The cost of the lunch program is $22 per person. For more information on the League of Women Voters general meeting, contact the League of Women Voters office at 703-658-9150, TTY 711, or e-mail firstname.lastname@example.com.
For more information on emergency management,
contact the Office of Emergency Management at 703-324-2362, TTY 711, or
visit the OEM Web page at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/oem.


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I think Prime Jordan could take prime Lebron. I don't try to hate on Lebron any more than he deserves, but I think that big frame of his will wear out faster than a lot of superstars. He's putting incredible impact on his joints, I see him battling injuries in the twilight of his career. I also theorize that Lebron took roids or some other substance when he was a younger player, but that is neither here nor there. No proof, just my gut feeling. Its conceivable that PG could overtake him at some point, but who knows what the superstar situation of the league will be like years down the road. As long as Paul gets as many or more rings than him I'll be content.
So everybody wanted to trade Kyrie for Paul George?
See what I did there? I pulled a trader Joe
@WhatTheFFacts: Studies show that sarcasm enhances the ability of the human mind to solve complex problems!
Top 5 hands down right now. I would say that when this season is done he could be top 3. He has to do this consistently and in the playoffs.
@WhatTheFFacts: Studies show that sarcasm enhances the ability of the human mind to solve complex problems!
James Harden would have a tough time here. It's one thing all of us agree on is defense, which means Indiana fans would lose their **** watching Harden do the opposite of defense...
@WhatTheFFacts: Studies show that sarcasm enhances the ability of the human mind to solve complex problems!
He won't.
But by the time PG hits his prome, LBJ will be out of his.
I know Lebron's a great player, one of the most efficient ever. But I actually prefer watching PG's game.
This space for rent.
PG is a beast but some of you guys need to slow down...he isn't better than CP3 and certainly not Kevin Durant...(yet!)
Keep in mind it's been FIVE games. Let's not jump the gun here.
Nah. This run extends back to last year, so it's more like 27 games. (22 playoff games) He's shooting the ball a few more times per game, and shooting 44% on threes to make up the difference in points.
Just because you're offended, doesn't mean you're right. ― Ricky Gervais.
Harden comes off as arrogant and a bit of a blowhard. Paul George is humble, that's why its easy to root for him
Being unable to close out a game in which you have a comfortable lead in the 4th Q = Pulling a Frank Vogel
I think side by side comparisons of PG and Lebron are pretty damn staggeringly close in resemblance as far as skillsets, natural talent and feel for the game, the passion and drive to achieve being the best they can possibly be as a complete basketball player...
OBVIOUSLY , Lebron is a good handful of years ahead of Paul George in not only his development as a player, but accolades, accomplishments, endorsements, worldwide superstar recognition and etc..
IF PG keeps his hunger to be the best he can be, (and I have absolutely ZERO doubt he will), I see absolutely no reason why he couldnt have a Lebron type of career , providing he stays blessed with good health.....
We really lucked out when Paul George dropped to us ...
About 3 picks ahead of before we picked , I said to myself that I have this funny feeling that we will draft PG and he will be as good as Danny for us ...
Never in a million years did I think the basketball gods would gift the Indiana Pacers and fans with what amounts to a once-in-a-decade type player who is so complete in all attributes both skillwise and athletically ..
I remember also saying to myself back before the draft, that I liked George... and how it seems to me like 90% of the good draft prospects who happen to have two first names as both their first and last name ...
It's kinda crazy when you think about it ... all the all star caliber players who have 2 first names...
I was trying to find a list somewhere, but didnt have any luck, so I figured we could kind of compile one with players we can remember...
Let's see... all I could think of at the moment who were/are either pretty darn good players with good long careers or of all star caliber or better ...
Michael Jordan
*Kobe Bryant
Dwight Howard
Chris Paul
Vince Carter
Eric Gordon
Ben Gordon
Rick Barry
Ray Allen
*Carmelo Anthony (even though Carmello isn't a "common" first name, same with Kobe and etc. names denoted with asterisk)
Dave Bing
*Kyrie Irving
Jarret Jack
David Lee
I am sure there are a whole slew of others.... but my point being , is if you draft a player in first round/lottery who is projected to be pretty good and he has 2 first names, odds seem to be in favor more times than not of him being pretty good lol..
**Note** this is all conjecture all in fun with no evidence to back up assertion of above, just figured it would be something fun to discuss as far as the 2 first name deal in correlation to how many are/were elite or close to all star caliber.. and if it seems to hold true the majority of the time..
"They want to be famous. We want to be champions. They want to be rappers and backup dancers. We want to play football." - T.J. Ward, Denver Broncos
Defense? Defense is for people without beards.
Time for a new sig.
Did anyone else see our 6'10" small forward take their all-star MVP point guard off the dribble in the 4th quarter and drive the lane hard? He flat out beat Rose to the basket badly.


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Bradley gargoyles inspire high school art students
October 26, 2011
By Tim Belter '13
The gargoyles on the new Hayden-Clark Alumni Center sit and watch over the campus. Now, thanks to Bradley senior Pam Gargiulo and Bradley graduate Jennifer Sheckler '03, art students at Limestone Community High School in Bartonville have created little guardians of their own, based on Bradley's watchful creatures.
Gargiulo, an art education major and student teacher at Limestone, saw the gargoyles before they rose to the Alumni Center's roof and thought they would make excellent inspiration for an art project. Gargiulo was student teaching in Sheckler's class and suggested the idea, which the Bradley alumna fully endorsed.
"This was something kind of new for the students, and I think they were inspired by it," said Sheckler.
Gargiulo brought in images of the Bradley gargoyles to give the students a reference point. One picture showed Gargiulo standing next to one of the gargoyles so the students could see how large and imposing they are. The students researched other famous gargoyles and their history before drawing up their own. Then, it was time to bring their creations to life.
"Students came up with their own versions of these mythical creatures," said Gargiulo. "They each have their own individual character."
The students started by molding about four pounds of clay into a gargoyle's basic shape. They then used carving tools to add detailed features like teeth, horns and claws. Next, they hollowed out the gargoyles to use as jars and put them into the kiln for their first firing. When they came out of the kiln, the students applied a glaze, and then returned the gargoyles to the kiln to finish the project. The whole process took about two weeks.
"The students did an awesome job and really enjoyed the project," said Gargiulo. "The students came up with some excellent, unique gargoyles!"


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As you may know by now, I really enjoy my holidays abroad, especially to nice sunny places, with lots to see and do. We usually take two holidays a year, one in the summer and one in the winter. Because you are a bit restricted to warm places in Europe in our winter we have stuck to going to the Canaries as the weather is nice all year round. So in September 2004 we started to look around for out up coming break.
We stumbled on an allocated on arrival holiday going in late November to Lanzarote, on the First Choice website. It was described as 3 star All Inclusive. Having a look through the brochure we knew that it would be going to one of a handful of hotels, all looking nice, so we decided to book there and then after Jay had rang his boss to make sure he could get the time off from work. At £742 altogether for two weeks, not including insurance, this offer was too good to pass on. Yes thats right, this holiday cost us £371 each, for two weeks, All Inclusive, flights and transfers. Bargain!
On arrival at Arrecife airport, we quickly found a First Choice rep, who told is that we would be staying at the Los Zocos hotel in Costa Teguise, and she said that it was a great complex, so we were not worried at all. We also soon discovered that the couple who we had been having good chat with on the plane were also staying at the Los Zocos.
Costa Teguise is situated on the east coast of Lanzarote, and is quite central so all attractions are not too far away. As far as resorts go it is not very busy, so you dont get the hustle and bustle, but there is enough to do to keep you occupied.
The Los Zocos Resort
After a short transfer we arrived at the Los Zocos, and checked in fairly quickly, even though a lot of people off our flight were checking in at the same time. The hotel is All Inclusive and Self Catering, so all All Inclusive guests are taken into a room to have their photo taken for the All Inclusive card. This card is your ticket to food and drink, so make sure that you carry it with you at all times. We were then given our room key and told which way to go.
The rooms are in three different buildings, two of which are arc shaped around the pools, and the other in L shaped. We were in block two. Each block has three floors, but no lifts. Most hotels are not very built up as they feel that it spoils the landscape. Not having a lift is not a problem, as the maximum you have to walk up in two flights of stairs, but it was a bit hard to lug to rather heavy suitcases up and down, good job we only had to do it once. There are rooms on the ground floor, which would be suitable for disabled people.
Every room in the hotel is a self catering room, even if you are All Inclusive. I found this to be very useful. Our room, in block two, was massive. There was a full kitchen, which included an oven not just a hob, fridge, toaster, kettle, crockery, cutlery, and lots of other cooking utensils. Being AI you wouldnt necessarily need all of these, but its great having a fridge so that you can have a cool drink in the middle of the night. There was also a lounge area, bathroom, and a massive bedroom, containing twin beds, two bedside tables, dressing table and wardrobe. We also had a huge balcony, with access from both the lounge area and bedroom. We had westerly views, so we could watch the sun set over the mountains. The room was very clean and the maids came daily.
There are two restaurants in the hotel and a snack/pool bar. There is the El Mirador, which is inside the hotel complex and the Boulevard which is also open to the general public. Both breakfast and dinner are served in the El Mirador and Lunch and Dinner are served in the Boulevard. If you want to eat Dinner in the Boulevard then you have to book your table at reception as space for eating is limited, I would recommend the Boulevard for dinner as the food seemed to be fresher than in the main hotel restaurant and it is more suitable to adults only.
The food in the hotel was delicious, with lots of variety on offer, including lots of Chinese dishes, thanks to the Chinese chef. I wasnt very keen on Chinese food before, but he won me round. Dont worry though if you dont like Chinese food, there is a lot more to choose from. Breakfast and lunch were also very nice, so you will not go hungry. The snack/pool bar however left a lot to be desired, with buffet style snacks including burgers, hot dogs and chips, being cooked in the morning and left out all day. If you are lucky you can get something quite fresh if you are there when they bring it out. I would definitely recommend going for lunch in the Boulevard which was served between 12.30 and 2.30 pm. The only disappointment with the food was that packed lunches were not available. We like to go out and about and explore places, and when you have already paid for All Inclusive you do feel a bit cheated, but we were sneaky and took some stuff back to our room at breakfast, and I made us some sandwiches to take out with us.
The entertainment in the hotel is great for kids, but not so good for adults. There is a mini disco, and a show in the Aguamarina bar, bingo and a quiz in the pool bar. We spent most nights in the Boulevard, the staff are a lot better and much better drinks, including a waiter service. There is a big screen with sky TV, and every Tuesday we had a duet playing the piano and singing, they were really good, but virtually the same show on the second week. We did on one occasion go to the pool bar for the bingo and the quiz, I even won at bingo, but the quiz was rubbish.
There is also an Animation Team (entertainment team) who run a kids club, and this is fantastic for kids during the day and at night, providing you children with lots to do. As we dont have any kids yet, I cannot really comment on this, but they all looked as if they were having lots of fun. There is even swimming lessons available, so your kids will be able to use the pools.
Drinks in the pool bar are self service in the day, but you have to ask for them at night, this where you really need your All Inclusive card. Youre only allowed one drink per person per visit to the bar, and your cards are scanned to control this. Drinks are also self service in the restaurant areas. Being All Inclusive you can drink all that you want, but be warned, the bar shuts at 11 pm.
The pools, well what can I say. There are two pools and they were both freezing, heated my arse!!! We got in on day one, and had to get out because our feet had gone numb. We did venture in again, but only lasted for five seconds. They were very clean though. We did sunbathe quite a lot around pool two, as it was a lot quieter than pool one. It was November/December so we couldnt really complain too much.
If you do go to this hotel on a Self Catering basis, then there is a Netto Store just outside the hotel where you will be able to stock up on all of your food and drink.
Other stuff to do in Lanzarote
Even though we go to All Inclusive hotels, we dont like to be tied to the hotel for a whole fortnight, if youre going to stay in one place you may as well stay at home. So heres a list of stuff to do while you are in Lanzarote, and Costa Teguise.
Costa Teguise beach is only a five minute walk away from the hotel, and is glorious, with plenty of room and clear water.
Costa Teguise itself is only a short stroll away, with plenty of shops, bars and restaurants. We often had a walk into town, to have a look round and to have a change of scenery.
If you want a night out, after the hotel bars have closed, but you dont want to go to far away, go to Cactus Jacks, which is just behind the Los Zocos. We went in at midnight and happy hour was just starting, where you can get 4 pints for 5 euros. Then they have Karaoke until about 3 in the morning. I even won a bottle of so called Champagne after singing in the Karaoke.
If you like to venture out of the hotel, Lanzarote is a great place to go to, with loads of things to see, and Costa Teguise is a good base. We hired a car for a weekend, and explored the whole island.
First of all we went to Timanfaya National Park (Fire Mountain) to see the volcanoes. Timanfaya National Park is situated in the south of Lanzarote, and you can either go by yourself if you hire a car, or there are many organised excursions. The park was created between 1730 and 1736 when more than 100 volcanoes, covering more than 50 square kilometres, erupted and devastated this part of the island. It will cost you 8euros per person to enter the park, but you get a lot for your money. For your money, you get a coach tour around all of the craters, and you get to see how hot it is just a few meters under your feet when cold water is poured down a hole and seconds later it comes back up as steam, because the temperature a few meters below the ground can reach between 400°C and 600°C. Be prepared as this will make you jump. There is also a restaurant, the El Diablo, which serves food cooked using geothermal heat (A cast-iron grill placed over a large hole in the ground). Also if you wish, you can take a camel ride around the park.
After visiting Timanfaya National Park, we took at detour to El Golfo, this is a semi-circular Volcanic Crater filled with Sea water that has filtered through the black sand that separates the lagoon from the sea. The Lagoon is green in colour caused but the algae living in the water, against the black sand beach and strange looking rock formations make it is quite a spectacular site.
Our next stop was to the north of the Island. Here we visited Jameos Del Agua, which is part of the Atlantida volcanic cave system formed by the eruptions of the Corona volcano about three to four thousand years ago. Here there is a natural Concert Hall with wonderful acoustics, subterranean lagoon containing tiny blind albino crabs, a restaurant and a museum. The cost to get into Jameos Del Agua was 8Euros each.
Then on to Cueva del les Verdes, the Green Caves, just up the road, these are also part of the same cave system as Jameos Del Agua. This cave system is over 6 km long with an additional 1.6 km under the sea and is the longest Volcanic Tunnel in the World, although only about 2 km are open to the public. The cave measures more than 15 meters wide and 15 m high, the lowest part of the cave is used occasionally as a concert hall. You care given a guided tour around these caves, and you will be in a large group. The information the tour guide gave us was very interesting, and he repeated everything in Spanish, English and French. The cost of the Cueva del les Verdes was also 8 Euros each.
We then visited Mirador del Rio, a viewing point at the north of the island, where you can see magnificent views of the island of La Gracios. There is a restaurant here and a tourist centre. The cost to get into the tourist centre was 4Euros, including a free drink in the restaurant.
We also visited some of the other resorts on the island. Playa Blanca, in the very south, which has the most beautiful beaches and fantastic views of Fuerteventura. Puerto Del Carmen, this resort is more lively that Costa Teguise, and a lot bigger, and Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote. There is a good selection of shops here, and a nice front, but the back streets are a bit run down. We reached both Puerto Del Carmen and Arrecife by public transport which you can get on just out side the hotel.
We had a fantastic time at the Los Zocos resort, the only downside being the weather. We did have some rain, but you cant do anything about that, and it was November, much better than being at home.
I would definitely recommend this hotel to everyone, it is suitable for singles, couples, and families. The hotel is great for people just wanting to relax, and a great base for people who want to explore.
Thanks for reading. Gayna x
The Flora aparthotel is situated right at the top of a very steep hill (nicknamed Cardiac Hill), in Puerto Del Carmen. At first sight it looked cheery and clean which was all we wanted. After all, we did get an excellent deal for halfboard accomodation for 7 days. Three hundred and twenty pounds looked great value.
We were checked in and directed to an appartment which was on the ground floor, facing the children's play area. This wasn't ideal for two adults but didn'tintend to spend much time in the room so we didn't complain.
An inspection of the bedroom revealed a couple of dead cockroaches in the bottom of the wardrobe. We took it that these had been sprayed and accepted the fact that it is usual to find the odd insect visitor in a hot climate.
The beds were clean but the linen was clearly old and had a few rust marks on it. Then we inspected the kitchen area and decided that we could not use it. The toaster was greasy and full of crumbs, the cutlery, crockery and cookers itself were greasy. in the cupboard we found a frying pan with fat in the bottom of it. However, as we did not intend to use the facilities we didn't complain about them. We simply assumed that all appartments were of this standard!
We went out and bought coffee and milk and two mugs rather than using the ones provided. The first night came and we were so tired from travelling that we slept until lunchtime the next day. I went into the bedroom to find a huge cockroach on the door. My sister laughed at my sheer horror and used the cockroach spray that was under the sink.
Ten minutes later she went into the bedroom and i heard he screaming. The room was full of the horrible creatures. I pushed my things back into my bag (I had not unpacked properly) and retreated to the verandha.
We were given another room which was spotlessly clean and over looked the pool area. A member of staff helped us to move and the management did their best to calm us down and keep us quiet. They offered a free lunch in compensation which we thought was disgraceful. my sister had booked the holiday and she was asked to sign a waiver before we were given vouchers for lunch and declare that she would make no further complaint.
The next day we noticed that they had moved someone else into the same room!
The food in this hotel was good for the first two days but once hey had more guests it was cold and it ran out before everyone was served. one night in particular they dished up roast beef, brussell sprouts, paella,mussels and curried hake. There was no way of making a meal from that. Apparently the pottoes had run out but we did have potatoes served up with carrots and peas for breakfast.
Evening entertainment was provided here but it was pure relief on the night that the entertainment team were off. The two guys organising things seemed to be good children's entertainers but they brought the same level of entertainment into the adult bar at night. The younger of the duo behaved like a very exhuberant teenager and on one night in particular had to be told not to chase children round and round the swimming pool threatening to throw them in at 11pm at night.
Good points? Yes, there were a few. The staff were friendly and helpful and the outside areas were kept spotlessly clean.
It seems that The Flora has a number of old, sub standard appartments that they allocate to those they think won't complain. We booked independantly and discovered that everyone else in that particular row had also booked without going through a tour operator. Those is the bright, new, clean appartments were First Choice, Cosmos and several other Dutch and German Tour operator's customers.
Not recommended. Don't bother to stay here. There are lots of other much nicer places to stay in Puerto Del carmen. We loved the Island of Lanzarote and had some great days out but we really were glad to get home!
Most of the enthusiatic reviews of this hotel (mainly from other travel web sites) come from family groups with small children, looking for the children to be fed and diverted. But what if you do not fall into this group? I booked this hotel for my family of four (two adult and two girls in their twenties) over Christmas, as a way of escaping from the punishment of Xmas in the UK. I had read previous reviews, and had some idea of what I was letting myself in for. I had hoped that by going at the most expensive time, that price alone would select the guests, but clearly that was not the case. The hotel is basic. Whilst the two roomed apartment we stayed in was spacious, it was spartan. Even in December, we had to use the supplied insecticides to eliminate six legged friends. The decoration of the appartment was a minimal white paint job, with pine furnishings. The room was well worn, and looked in need of a repaint. Everything worked eventually. It took a day before the television would function and the sink in the bathroom would empty, but these matters were attended to. Hot water ran out about 6.30 in the evening. I think it is cheeky these days to put a slot-machine television in a hotel, and charging up to 1 Euro per hour to watch television is an insult to guests (It is 3Euros if you buy a whole day in advance.) Similarly it is cheeky to charge for a key to fit the room safe (20 Euros for a week). Other communal parts of the hotel are excessively worn, and it is probably a reflection on the nature of the guests that all the tables in the disco bar are covered in grafitti as were the toilets in reception. No attemtps were made to discourage or cure the problem. As has been stated in many reviews, the food is plentiful, and there is a big choice. However, it is plain food to British tastes, and often was not hot. There was a microwave to warm up food if that bothered you, but clearly it did not bother the majority of the guests. Vegetarians would be well catered f
or. Coffee comes out of machine, and was never good, and barely acceptable. Tea is self brewed, and the milk was not too bad. The big attraction of the all inclusive is the bars. and it is possible to consume alcohol continuously for twelve hours per day minimum (usually more than this). Most of the drink is 'local' brands. Now, this can have different meanings, but by and large meant that it was a bit rough. Choice was limited, and it took a lot of experimenting to find out what was good. Some of the bar staff are African, and their command of English suprisingly poor. The Captain's bar was supposed to be child-free after 2100, but rarely was. Unsupervised children roam the hotel at night, but surpringly few of them seem to come to any harm. Entertainment is enthusiatic but naff in the extreme. It is probably aimed at families that don't get out much. Admittedly the children do extremely well, but a different approach is needed for an adult audience. Bingo is popular, and quite big prizes were won (not by us). Considering it was Xmas, there was little evidence in the hotel. There was even maid service on Xmas day. There was no xmas lunch, but there was a superb gala dinner, which showed that the catering staff could do it if they tried. Clearly the mainstream catering is budget-limited, and maybe if the prices were put up and catering improved, that might alter the ethos of the hotel. At the moment the ethos is one of chips. Talking of chips, there are day-long bar snacks. This means burgers and chips. I was amazed at the Brits' abilities to shift so many of these alongside three square meals a day. No wonder the nutrition of the country is where it is. We ate out of the hotel a couple of times, and the meals out, especially fish, were good value and excellent. If you have small children, a tatoo, a shaved head and a football shirt, then this is the place for you.
Part of the Sol Hotel Chain, this hotel is best pictured with plane in the background and you would just about get its number, it is close to the beach and across the way from the airport. Transfer time is 10 minutes from the airport, and it is situated at the furthest end of Puerto del Carmen. The hotel is a right little suntrap, just on the beach and approximately 250meters from the Commercial centre of Matagorda and approximately 750meters from the commercial centre at Playa de Los Pocillos. If you are looking for decadent luxurious surroundings then this is not the place for you, if you are looking for an affordable break with basic clean self catering apartments, balconies many without a view, outstanding communal facilities, friendly staff, easy access to Puerto del Carmen, good car-parking, tennis courts, games room, three swimming pools, including that rare commodity, the heated one for the winter, entertainment every night and a selection of buffet and al a carte restaurants to chose from, then this hotel could be for you. THE ROOM One bedroom apartment with twin beds in bedroom, plenty of wardrobe space, bsafety deposit box (chargeable) - table, balcony, shower-room with toilet and sink, plenty of towels and toiletries supplied, convertible sofa in the loung for third bed. Telephone -owing to having encountered a number of problems from a theft (not at the hotel), and having a homesick child with me, we made quite regular use of the telephone, and was charged less then £8 for the privelege, which for a hotel, making a number of international calls I found quite reasonable. Catering facilities were basic - 2 electric rings, sink area and very effective fridge - saucepans, crockery and cutlery supplied. There was no kettle or toaster, although I found out when I got home that you can apparently rent these as well. TV's can also be rented for an additional charge. Maid service was 5 days/week
(not Wednesdays or Saturdays), and linen was changed twice weekly. The room was clean, if basic, my only real gripe being that there was no air conditioning and lighting could have been better. EATING For a small supplement back in the UK (c£9.60 per person per day - ½ price for children 12 and under), you can book half board in this hotel with Thomsons, or else you can pay as you go in the hotel. BUFFET BREAKFAST (served 8am to 10am) A sumptious feast if ever I saw one - 850ptas for adults, 425 ptas for children (c£3.27 & £1.64) you could east as much as you like from: * Bacon * Scrambled, Boiled, Fried Eggs & Omelettes * Sausages * Frankfurters * Ham and various other cold meats * Chips * Baked Beans * Tomatoes * Pancakes & Syrup * Cereals * Cakes * Croissants and other pastries * Various Fruit Juices * Bread Rolls with a selection of jams * DIY Toast * Coffee, tea, Chocolate of and don't forget the salad - (although I still haven't worked out why they were serving salad for breakfast) Bit better value than most hotel breakfasts in the UK don't you think? If you were hungry during the day, there was a pool bar serving snacks such as hotdogs, toasted sandwiches, chicken etc - although if you pitched breakfast correctly, food didn't really enter into the vocabulary. A LA CARTE Didn't try this, but traditional international fayre with maincourses starting around £3 per person - open from 10am to 11pm daily BUFFET EVENING (served 6.00pm to 9.30pm) This provided a different theme every evening, including: * Canarian * Mexican * International * Chinese and in addition, provided a variety of pastas, salad, cold meats, omelletes, chips, a joint of meat, and various kiddies things for the fussier kids (and adults) Cost 1800 Ptas for adults - 900 for children (£6.92 & £3.46 respecti
vely), tabel service drinks were extra. In addition to the superb food, the hotel had three swimming pools, one (very deep - shallow end 1.62mts - deep 2.62mts) which was heated during winter, and 2 other pools, both shallower and specially adapted for the disabled - but I am afraid rather cold. There was 24 hour reception services, all staff spoke English, a large car parking area, full on daily entertainment from a team of multi-lingual entertainers, 3 bars which between opened until 1am, table tennis, pool, a kiddies games area which included air hockey, a supermarket selling a wide selection of food, cheap alcohol and cigarettes, daily english papers and a selection of books (open 8am to 7pm daily) - but if you are a late arrival water can be purchased from the bar - or take some with you. Safety deposit Boxes can be rented for 1400ptas/week (1000ptas refundable deposit), and TV's can apparently also be rented. The write up on this hotel in the Gazateer wasn't brilliant - but because of the price (£460 for a week for 3 people) and the fact that we knew it had a heated swimming pool, we decided to give it a go, and believe me we weren't disappointed. For the really fit and energetic amongst us, I guess it is 3/4 hours walking distance from Puerto del Carmen, but when you can get a taxi for a mere 500ptas (less then £2), then really is hardly seems worth it. Taxi fare from the airport - c1,400 ptas. WHO GOES THERE? Well you can book on-line and travel independently (not necessarily the cheapest way) - Thomsons are there this winter (01/02) as are JUST, Direct Holidays, Airtours and JMC. If you are looking for a cheap break, then I really can recommend this hotel, why not give it a try. The hotel does also double up as a conference centre, although we didn't see much sign of business people, although it was just before Christmas and may be different at other times of the year.
HOTEL WEB-SITE http://www.solmelia.com/cgi-bin/solmelia/dirdinamic/hotelhtml?13517


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Offering quality customer service with bilingual employees and traditional foods can drive retail loyalty among the growing Hispanic population. By Erin Rigik, Associate Editor. Today, Hispanic food is mainstream and attractive to a wide array of demographics seeking spicier flavors, but the secret to keeping your Hispanic customers' repeat business lies in more than just
Capturing Hispanic Customers
February 29, 2012 Erin Rigik Del Conte : 0 Comments


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Video: Audyssey Media Dock
Tara W. has worked for Crutchfield since 2004. She writes about whole-house music and video gear, and works on Crutchfield's video team.
More from Tara W.
Heads up!Welcome to this article from the Crutchfield archives. Have fun reading it, but be aware that the information may be outdated and links may be broken.
Tara W. checks out the Audyssey Media Dock at CES. The dock can connect to an iPod®, iPhone® and computer. It can also stream music wirelessly with Bluetooth®.
Video Transcript
Tara: We're here checking out Audyssey's audio dock and we're just gonna learn a little bit about it today. So, what can you tell us?
Audyssey: The primary focus of the dock is connection to an iPod or an iPhone via 30 pin. It works with any device over any of the generations. Additionally, through the connectivity, we offer Bluetooth wireless, so any Bluetooth device, particularly a mobile device, can connect with the dock and you can stream music wirelessly. Now Bluetooth has a secondary feature as well. On the unit we have microphones in the front and on the back so when you're paired via Bluetooth and you receive a phone call on your IOS enabled device the dock actually shifts from music mode into phone mode and it works as a conference phone. So now I can take the call, I can answer it, and immediately I can have a one-on-one dialogue with anybody on the other end. It works via Face Time and if you connect to the computer you can actually use it for Skype or any other voice over IP calling service.
The construction of the unit itself is pretty involved. We have two ¾" tweeters, two 4 ½' drivers and two passive radiators. Now on the secondary side as we talk about fitting into the desktop environment, we do offer USB and analog connections. With USB, when your iPhone's docked you can sync to iTunes and charge and with the analog mini-jack connection the dock also doubles as a computer speaker. So it's really one device that connects to many of your mobile and computer devices to really focus to where your content is.
Tara: So one speaker connects to iPod, iPhone, any phone really. Connects to your computer and sounds absolutely great.
Yes. That's it, in a nutshell.


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Long-time Volunteer Charlie Hunt of Vienna Honored
Fairfax County Department of Family Services
12011 Government Center Parkway, Suite 500
Fairfax, VA 22035-1102
June 7, 2007
The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a) has selected Charlie Hunt of Vienna, Virginia, for a MetLife Foundation Older Volunteers Enrich America Award. Administered by n4a, the national program celebrates outstanding older volunteers and their contributions to their communities. Mr. Hunt received a Team Spirit Award for his work with the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program, administered by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging in Fairfax County's Department of Family Services.
Charlie Hunt, age 82, has spent 14 years as a VICAP volunteer advising other seniors about health insurance matters. In the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, this requires that he must not only understand Medicare and Medigap health plans, but also various health plans for federal government employees and military personnel. A former Internal Revenue Service tax assistance volunteer, Mr. Hunt is detail-oriented and has recruited other tax preparers to volunteer. His experience and calm demeanor have been especially valuable since the advent of the Medicare Part D program, which has triggered a 44% increase in VICAP clients since 2006.
"You get a good feeling when you volunteer," says Charlie Hunt. "You give helpful information, but you also learn from the experiences. Volunteering makes you healthier, happier and wiser."
Mr. Hunt and the 27 other award recipients, nominated by organizations and programs nationwide, will be honored during a ceremony on June 8, in Washington, D.C. Nominees were required to be age 50 years or older and to have volunteered for the program or organization for at least one year. Members of the Older Volunteers Enrich America Awards Blue Ribbon Panel and Advisory Board made award selections in three categories. Team Spirit Awards honor older volunteers who assist other older adults; Mentor Awards recognize older volunteers who work with young people and their families; and Community Champion Awards recognize those who use their time and talent to make their community a better place to live. Mr. Hunt will receive an engraved gift celebrating his achievement, and the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging will receive a monetary award to further its work.
The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a) is the leading voice on aging issues for Area Agencies on Aging across the country and a champion for Title VI-Native American aging programs in our nation's capital.
MetLife Foundation was established in 1976 by MetLife to carry on its longstanding tradition of corporate contributions and community involvement. Grants support health, education, civic and cultural programs throughout the United States.
Fairfax County is committed to nondiscrimination
on the basis of disability in all county programs, services and activities.
Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request.


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Results 1 to 5 of 23
June 28th, 2013 07:55 AM #1
Would You Still Use North if You Were Us?
Hi Guys,
We need some advice. We're not ttc just yet, but the plan has always been to name our first son's two middle names after both of our maternal grandfather's (William and Norman). Since our surname ends with an "n" and is 2 syllables, ______ William Norman ____n sounds awful so we planned to use North in honour of Norman. Norman mean's northener plus the Norman in question was a "northener" in the UK, so the name makes perfect sense to us.
Would you still use it for a boys middle name following the birth of North West?? Is it ruined now. I would just cringe if anyone thought they were the inspiration behind us using the name, although I know we can explain the meaning to us. What would you guys do?
Any opinions would be appreciated!28 year old name nerd, dreaming of a future:
Claudie, Lilac, Hadley, Thea, Phoebe, Mirabelle, Penelope & Clementine.
Otto, Quentin, Xavier, Ace, Lennox, Byron, Rafferty & Harlan.
June 28th, 2013 07:59 AM #3Senior Member
- Join Date
- Jan 2012
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- 2,072
Anna Katherine * Lydia Ellen * Zoe Madeleine * Phoebe ___ * Imogen ___ * Emilia ___Samuel * Thomas * Charlie * Reuben * Oliver * George
June 28th, 2013 08:03 AM #5
I would still use it as a mn if it had meaning to me!Me + hubby = One prince and two little princesses <3 <3 <3. So in love with our family and our new little pink bundle!!
June 28th, 2013 08:07 AM #7Senior Member
- Join Date
- Jul 2012
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- London, England
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- 5,334
I don't really see how someone could "ruin" a name by using it for their little baby. If little North West grows up to be a evil dictator or psychopath sadist, sure, but she's a little baby! I'm probably in the minority here, but I like Kanye West and I don't see any reason why them using this name should stop others from doing the same. If people think they inspired you, or that you're a massive Kardashian fan, so what? You know you're not (I'm assuming).My darling Marian Illyria Aphrodite, March 2013 & Little Bunny (a girl!) due 9th of February 2014
June 28th, 2013 08:34 AM #9Maddox (Max) James 08.31.13.
Boys Favourites: Holden, Theron (Theo), Aidan, Killian
Girls Favourites: Rosalie, Lucy, Lyra, Isla


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The Downtown Youth Department offers three storytimes especially designed for the age of your child. Each program is designed to meet the special delights of that age group. Storytimes are offered throughout the year January through December although there are limited storytimes in May, August, or December. Please check below to decide which storytime is best for your child or children. We also offer family storytimes.
Lapsit is designed for children from birth to 24 months of age. Exposure to the rhythms of language and music can help introduce very young children to books and reading. Traditional rhymes, basic fingerplays, tickles, bounces, and activity songs, as well as circle activities that utilize both large and small motor skills are incorporated in the Lapsit program. In addition, caregivers work with their children which helps to build the bond between them. Each program includes a page of rhymes, songs, etc. for the caregiver to take with them and try at home.
Toddlers, age 24 months to about 42 months, are fun and filled with curiosity. They like books, rhythms, crafts, activities and music. Developmentally, toddlers are beginning to understand basic concepts, develop a sense of humor, and realize a story sequence, but are still upset by separation from a parent or caregiver. You and your child are cordially invited to join us for this special storytime designed for toddlers and their adult caregivers.
Preschool children, ages 3 1/2 to 6 years, are making developmental strides and express an interest in the world around them. They want to touch, taste, smell, hear, and test things for themselves. They are eager to learn. They learn by experiencing and by doing. Preschoolers learn from their play. They are busy developing skills and enjoying language. They enjoy more complex stories than toddlers and like to share their knowledge or questions about the story. Some preschoolers are fine enjoying a storytime alone while their adult caregiver is nearby in the youth room choosing books; others still need their caregiver with them. We will have stories, rhymes, songs and crafts.
Family storytimes are a chance for the whole family to get together and enjoy some good books. Each branch offers a family storytime.
Our Klondike Branch offers storytimes on Wednesdays at 11:00 a.m.
Our Wyandotte Branch offers storytimes on Fridays at 11:00 a.m
Our Downtown Branch offers a family storytime, Stories Under the Sculpture, on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's).
What do they do at storytime?
Storytimes are a chance for children to experience rhymes, bounces, tickles, activity songs and books. We bring in a variety of sources so that participants learn and hear new things every week.
How long does the program last?
Most programs usually last 20-30 minutes.
Where are the Storytimes held?
In Meeting Room A at the Dowtown Library, in the Tempest Homes Meeting Room at the Klondike Branch, and in the Timberstone Meeting Room at the Wyandotte Branch. These rooms have limited seating, so come early to ensure you have a place!
When do you do these Storytimes?
Lapsit Storytimes are on Tuesday, Wednesdays and Fridays mornings at 9:30 a.m.
Toddler Time is on Tuesday, Wednesday,and Friday mornings at 10:15 a.m.
Evening Nursery Rhyme Time is on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m.
Preschool Storytimes are on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 11:00 a.m.
We present the same program weekly in order to ensure that more people can take advantage of the program. We take May, August and December off in order to plan for the upcoming session.
Do I have to sign-up to come?
No, but the room holds a maximum of 35 people. Come early to ensure you get a place!
What if I have more questions?
You can call Youth Services at 429-0119.
Are there other storytimes I can attend?
Yes, each of our branches offers Family Storytimes for all ages.
Our Klondike Branch offers storytimes on Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m., 11:00 a.m. or 2:00 p.m.
Our Wyandotte Branch offers storytimes on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m.
Our Downtown Branch offers a family storytime on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m.


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What are Mass customs and traditions around the world? In this special blog post, CFCA explores how sponsored children, youth and aging friends in the Philippines celebrate Mass. Thanks to Gari Olavario, CFCA project coordinator in Legazpi, for contributing to this article.
Our mission at CFCA is to serve those living in poverty and recognize the God-given dignity of each person.
Most of our sponsored friends and their families in the Legazpi project are Catholic, and attending Mass every Sunday is their practice to praise and thank God.
Here are some of their thoughts about Mass:
Julie Mae, 15-year-old sponsored through CFCA: "For me, attending Mass is the best way to thank God for what my family and I achieved and for the blessings that he showered upon us. I also ask for help by praying if there are problems we encounter."
Elena, mother of two children sponsored through CFCA: "Sponsored children think that Mass is an important thing, a very precious gift from God. In attending the Holy Mass they encounter Jesus through readings and the Gospel and by receiving Him through Holy Communion."
Eric, 17-year-old sponsored through CFCA: "Attending Mass is very important in our lives. Not only are we Christians, but it's our obligation to remember how good the Father and Jesus are to us, praise God for his goodness and thank him for his gifts and for Jesus too."
During Mass, many of the sponsored children stay with their parents if they are old enough. If not, they will go outside and play with their friends.
"I am usually seated in front and beside my mother when we attend Sunday Mass to intently hear the homily of the parish priest," said Dianne, a child sponsored through CFCA. "During the Mass some people are standing because of fully occupied chairs or pews."
Rona, another sponsored youth, said keeping families together during Mass can strengthen their bond.
"Sponsored children prefer to stay beside their parents during Mass to feel the love and unity within a family through Christ," she said. "One thing more is they can attend the Mass seriously because they are being guided by their parents."
Mass services usually last for one hour, accompanied by music and singing. Usually the choir will sing, accompanied by instruments such as the guitar and piano.
Rona's favorite songs to sing are "Heal Our Land" and "Lead Me, Lord."
"It makes me feel as if there are no challenges in life that I cannot face," she said. "It is very inspirational and touching to the heart."
During the sign of peace, people will bow their heads, shake hands with their neighbors, and say "Peace" to one another. Children also hug and kiss their parents.
If you celebrate Mass, in what ways does this sound familiar or different? Feel free to let us know in the comments!


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Chino Hills and Chino Hills Disposal have scheduled a free mulch giveaway on Saturday.
The giveaway begins at 7:30 a.m. until supplies last at Veterans Park, 14877 Eucalyptus Ave., Chino Hills.
Bring your own shovel and container, no Chino Hills Disposal containers allowed to the park.
Due to the popularity of the program, each participant is limited to 60 gallons of mulch.
Information: 909-364-2800.


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Logitech S-150 USB Digital Speaker - 1.2 Watts RMS Power, USB Powered, 90 Hz-20 kHz, Volume and Mute Controls - 980-000028Item#: 7370315 | Model#: 980-000028
- List Price:
- $14.99
- Instant Savings:
- - $3.00 (20%)
- Price:
- $11.99
- Shipping:
- In Stock. Usually ships next business day. (Details)
Additional Resources
Logitech S-150 USB Digital Speaker Product Details
Logitech S-150 USB Digital Speakers - OEM
Enhance your games, movies, and music experience with the Logitech S-150 USB Digital Speakers. Its 90Hz to 20KHz frequency response gives out crystal clear sound. The USB interface allows you to use it with any USB enabled without any hassle. Its built-in volume control helps you to control the sound output. This sleek and compact designed speaker system with 1.2 Watt of power per satellite, delivers impressive high fidelity audio. If you plan to watch a movie or play the latest Warcraft game, don't forget to order the Logitech S-150 USB Digital Speakers now!
What It Is and Why You Need It:
- USB Digital Computer Speakers; compatible with USB enabled devices
- 1.2 Watts (0.6 watts per satellite); delivers high audio fidelity with strong mids, high bass and trebles
- Built-in volume up and volume down buttons; for easy volume control
A Closer Look
Additional Specifications
- Total RMS power: 1.2 Watts (0.6 watts per satellite)
- Frequency response: 90 Hz20 kHz
- Driver: 2-inch dynamic drivers
- Connectivity: USB cable (4-foot)
- Cable length between 2 satellites: 4 ft.
- Built-in volume up and volume down buttons
USB connectivity
The USB cable connects your speakers to your laptop or desktop computer for distortion-free, digital audioand battery-free power.
The satellite base is designed for greater stability on your desktop.
Work song
With USB connectivity delivering pure, digital audio and poweryour music will sound good wherever you work.
You can quickly adjust the volume when you need to with volume and mute buttons on the speakers.
Built-in controls
You can quickly and easily adjust the volume or mute the sound.
A light lets you know when your speakers are on.
Additional Resources: Product Manuals
Recommended Items
Related ItemsPrevious
Manufactured by: Logitech
Warranty provided by: Logitech
UPC No: 097855045898
Mfg Part No: 980-000028
Box Size:
( Length:6, Width:5, Depth:3)
Shipping Weight: 1.1000 pound(s)
Click here for full warranty and support information
- Logitech logos are registered trademarks of Logitech. All others trademarks and copyrights mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners.


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Questions and Answers on FDA's Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS)
What is FAERS?
The FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) is a database that contains information on adverse event and medication error reports submitted to FDA. The database is designed to support the FDA's post-marketing safety surveillance program for drug and therapeutic biologic products. The informatic structure of the FAERS database adheres to the international safety reporting guidance issued by the International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH E2B). Adverse events and medication errors are coded to terms in the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA) terminology.
How Does FDA Use the Information in FAERS?
FAERS is a useful tool for FDA for activities such as looking for new safety concerns that might be related to a marketed product, evaluating a manufacturer's compliance to reporting regulations and responding to outside requests for information. The reports in FAERS are evaluated by clinical reviewers in the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) and the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) to monitor the safety of products after they are approved by FDA. If a potential safety concern is identified in FAERS, further evaluation is performed. Further evaluation might include conducting studies using other large databases, such as those available in the Sentinel System. Based on an evaluation of the potential safety concern, FDA may take regulatory action(s) to improve product safety and protect the public health, such as updating a product's labeling information, restricting the use of the drug, communicating new safety information to the public, or, in rare cases, removing a product from the market.
Who Reports to FAERS?
Reporting of adverse events and medication errors by healthcare professionals and consumers is voluntary in the United States. FDA receives some adverse event and medication error reports directly from healthcare professionals (such as physicians, pharmacists, nurses and others) and consumers (such as patients, family members, lawyers and others). Healthcare professionals and consumers may also report adverse events and/or medication errors to the products' manufacturers. If a manufacturer receives an adverse event report, it is required to send the report to FDA as specified by regulations. The reports received directly and the reports from manufacturers are entered into FAERS.
How Can I Report an Adverse Event or Medication Error to FDA?
The MedWatch site provides information about voluntary and mandatory reporting.
Can Mandatory Reporters Submit Adverse Events Electronically?
The FDA Adverse Events Reporting System (FAERS) Electronic Submissions site provides drug and therapeutic biological product manufacturers, distributors, packers, and other interested parties with information about FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) electronic submissions and instructions on how to electronically submit postmarketing individual case safety reports (ICSRs), with and without attachments.
Do FAERS Data Have Limitations?
FAERS data do have limitations. First, there is no certainty that the reported event (adverse event or medication error) was actually due to the product. FDA does not require that a causal relationship between a product and event be proven, and reports do not always contain enough detail to properly evaluate an event. Further, FDA does not receive reports for every adverse event or medication error that occurs with a product. Many factors can influence whether or not an event will be reported, such as the time a product has been marketed and publicity about an event. Therefore, FAERS data cannot be used to calculate the incidence of an adverse event or medication error in the U.S. population.
Are FAERS Data Available to the Public?
FAERS data are available to the public in the following ways:
- FAERS Statistics: provides numbers of reports that FDA has received for drug and therapeutic biologic products over the past ten years.
- FAERS Data Files: provides raw data consisting of individual case safety reports extracted from the FAERS database. A simple search of FAERS data cannot be performed with these files by persons who are not familiar with creation of relational databases.
- Individual case safety reports from the FAERS database can also be obtained by sending a Freedom of Information (FOI) request to FDA.
Where Else Can I Find Safety Information?
- Potential Signals of Serious Risks/New Safety Information Identified from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS): quarterly reports on potential serious side effects identified by FAERS.
- Postmarketing Drug and Biologic Safety Evaluations: provides summary information about ongoing and completed postmarketing safety evaluations of adverse experience reports made to FDA for New Drug Applications (NDAs) and Biologic License Applications (BLAs) approved since September 27, 2007.
- Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER): Drug Safety and Availability
- Postmarket Drug Safety Information for Patients and Providers
- MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program


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New JAKKS Pacific Lineup of Collectible Figures, Plush, and More...
The Smurfs head back to the big screen today in The Smurfs 2 and JAKKS Pacific is celebrating the films release with a new lineup of collectible figures, plush, fashion dolls and playsets. The Smurfs product line will be available at Toys"R"Us, Target, Walmart and Kmart.
Smurfs fans can collect their favorite Smurfs characters with highly detailed 2.75 The Smurfs 2 Movie Figures (Single Pack SRP $3.99, 2-Pack SRP $6.99). With over 24 different figures to collect this year, fans can recreate their favorite scenes from the movie. Take Grouchy, Clumsy and the rest of the gang to explore the Mushroom Houses for an all new adventure! Available in four unique styles, the 7.5 Movie Mushroom House Playsets (SRP $14.99) bring to life the houses of favorite Smurfs characters. Each playset comes complete with a 2.75 Movie Figure and 10 fun accessories!
Also available are The Smurfs 7.5 Bean Bag Plush (SRP $7.99). With 12 new characters, these cuddly collectibles will be hard to pass up. The Smurfs 11 Basic Plush Assortment (SRP $9.99) adds even more fun and excitement with 12 new characters. Favorites including Smurfette, Papa Smurf, Clumsy and Grouchy are also available in a Jumbo Plush (SRP $29.99) size. These oversized 21 Jumbo Plush are perfect for collectors, children and fans of The Smurfs 2.
To insure your action figure collection, get in touch with Collectibles Insurance, the official insurance company of the Figures.com network. Say "Figures.com" to get 5% off your first term premiums.
To buy action figures, take a look at BigBadToyStore.com, AlterEgoComics.com, Toynk.com, BriansToys.com, ToyWiz.com, and MonkeyDepot.com.


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Moderators: Timko, Fritz, Solty, Booter, Blake_T, Frank Delicious
iacas wrote:Ryen91 wrote:Studies themselves can be misleading. The Ronald Reagan study with monkeys and marijuana was very misleading. They gave every monkey 30 joints of marijuana through a gas mask at one time. This took over 5 minutes well when you cut oxygen off for more than about 4 minutes brain cells start to die because your suffocating that individual. Now wonder some monkeys died, they were suffocating them, and quite frankly who can smoke 30 joints in a little over 5 minutes.
I didn't cite that study. The studies that have been conducted reasonably do not favor THC. It's very simple.
Truth be told I haven't done the studies (of my own) to see whether I support legalization, but I know the studies about THC/marijuana itself and there's no way at all you can say pot is "way better than alcohol" or whatever kind of blather you want to try to spin. It doesn't help your case that someone can enjoy a glass of wine at a dinner party without giving those near him a contact high.
Scooot_er wrote:And disc golfers aren't always the smartest bunch.
Scooot_er wrote:And disc golfers aren't always the smartest bunch.
JR wrote: Messing up your head is another matter and you don't even need chemicals to that or you can get them for free licking a toad or whatever. I'm not happy about that but it is better than funding organized crime which gives incentive to gangs etc. to start turf wars for profit in which innocents get killed and wounded and property wrecked. So there is that incentive for the people to limit spreading the ill effects beyond medical issues of digesting harmful substances. 1 Most get killed by a bullet much more likely than from alcohol or MJ if you get hit by a bullet. And that is just one method of criminals hurting people so even if it might be rare in many places it is a real problem in some places. There is a drug war going on right now and nations have fought over drugs in the 19th century. One could argue that Iraq was invaded for oil and 2 Afghanistan for poppies. Securing supply and making the profits yourself instead of the locals. People make money oil and poppies and economists in the 19th century described what a capitalist is willing to do for x amount of profit. Some oil companies tripled their stock worth within two years of the occupation of Iraq by a country lead by a president whose family and he himself was in oil business. Interestingly triple profit was described in the 19th century to be the limit where a capitalist would do anything to get that return on investment. Hmm. Coincidence? If it is it is ironic. Or the scientist found out something telling of people and their behavior and the factors that led to the usual numbers of expected profits and what people are wiling to do to obtain it. People ingesting different harmful substance for non medical issues might calculate some return from that but there are probably a lot of different reasons to consume anything.
Scooot_er wrote:And disc golfers aren't always the smartest bunch.
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We have to continually be jumping off cliffs and developing our wings on the way down. --Kurt Vonnegut
After an ugly response last week to the election results and the fiscal-cliff worries, the big question this week is whether the market can find its footing for a bounce. We are going to hear endlessly about the fiscal cliff, but even if you are optimistic about a potential deal, you have to be delusional to anticipate that the politicians are going to come to an agreement quickly.
The likelihood is that a deal will be made to avoid triggering the dire consequences of the fiscal cliff, but the nature of the negotiations will be brinkmanship. The politicians simply won't compromise until they absolutely have to since there is the hope that the other side will soften their stance first and provide a better compromise.
We are going to be sick of hearing the term "fiscal cliff" by the time this crisis is over, but we have no choice but to keep it in the forefront of our minds. It is going to be a source of uncertainty, which will be a problem for the market, but you can be sure there will be plenty of speculation of a deal to squeeze the bears if they become too overconfident.
Not only do we have this fiscal cliff issue, but Greek debt is back in the headlines again with some concern that a major payment will not be made on Friday. We all know that Europe will continue to "save" Greece as long as possible, but with softening in the Germany economy lately, it's a bit more problematic.
Aside from fundamental issues, the technical pattern of the markets is extremely poor. All the major indices are cracking support at the 200-day simple moving average, which is a sign to many traders to move to cash and stay there.
Technically, we are in a good spot for some sort of relief bounce but the key word here is "bounce," and any upside movement should be treated as such. There is no reason to anticipate a major trend change yet. Look for some tradable countertrend moves but drink the Kool-Aid and start believing that a major change in market character is about to occur. When it does, we will jump on board and go for a ride but it is far more important to have confirmation than to time the absolute bottom.
Keep in mind that I had declared a topping process on Sept. 25. If you acted at that time, you had plenty of time to get out of the way of much of the downside. It will work in reverse when there's a bottoming process and we'll have plenty of time once it starts to put our capital to work.
If you have been a trend-follower recently, you should be sitting on a big cash position and feeling fine about this market. It is tiresome not to have better trading opportunities, but it feels good to be out of harm's way. Remain opportunistic and pick off trades as they develop. The key is to respect that the market is caught in a downtrend and upside can't be trusted.
We have some Monday morning strength but nervousness continues. I'm looking for short-term trades but I will be very selective and keep it tight.


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Call Attention to Your Internal Mail
Use neon labels to make sure your internal mail gets the attention it deserves, and protect your routed documents with vinyl envelopes.
Instructions: Open the Message Label template.
Instructions: Type in your information using the template.
Instructions: Print on Avery Laser Fluorescent Labels.
Instructions: Apply to documents to draw attention to them.
Instructions: Use Avery Vinyl Envelopes to protect the documents as they travel around the office.


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Wilmington, Del. -- Survey results released Tuesday by ING Direct – to be rebranded Capital One 360 in 2013 – found that most Americans are purchasing holiday gifts with cash or debit cards this year.
The fourth annual holiday shopping survey found that more than three out of four Americans are purchasing gifts with cash or a debit card this year and more than three out of five (63%) are spending the same on holiday gifts as they did last year.
The survey also found that, as New Year's resolution time approaches, 70% of Americans ages 18 to 34 say they will start saving more in 2013. Overall, 49% of respondents are going to kick-start savings plans.
"This year's holiday shopper is taking the smartest approach to gift buying by sticking to what they can afford and positioning themselves for a worry-free start to 2013," said Jim Kelly, head of Direct Bank, Capital One.
According to respondents who are making financial resolutions, 38% plan on investing more for retirement and 33% will reduce or eliminate credit card debt in 2013.


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Unsealed, unclassified roads (UCRs) are an extremely useful resource for offroad cyclists as they can be more usable than bridleways and byways because of their width - and they sometimes have some form of stone surfacing too.
It is estimated that there are some 13,000km of such highways - often also called 'white' roads, or 'green' lanes.
However, there is no uniform recording of these highways, so the status allowing use by vehicles, including cycles is often called into question.
CTC accepts that recreational motor vehicles have a legal right to use UCRs, but believes that such use should be responsible without making routes difficult to use by cycle. (See CTC's policy on unsurfaced highways shared with motor vehicles [1] for more about our views).
There are two national user groups that represent offroad motorised users: the Trail Riders Fellowship (TRF) who represent motorcyclists; and the Motoring Organisations' Land Access & Recreation Association (LARA), an umbrella organisaton who represent all motorised users, including four wheeled use. Both organisations have now produced significant publications on unclassified roads.
In 2004, the TRF published the 90-page 'Unclassified Roads - a study into their status' written by two independent highway specialists who concluded that, on the balance of probability, routes recorded as UCRs are vehicle highways unless there is specific evidence to the contrary.
This is now getting a little dated, so LARA has now published a 67-page study, introducing later case law and taking into account the implications of the 2006 Natural Environment & Rural Communities Act. The study is in two sections, the body of the report, and a useful set of appendices providing much of the data plus legislative and court decisions informing the report.
The main report teases out the complexity of determining the often conflicting terminology used to define these highways, and how this can make it difficult to determine the status of these minor roads. Conclusions are supported with case studies drawn from court rulings.
Copies can be downloaded [2] free of charge, along with another new publication 'Trail Management Hierarchy' that suggests ways of managing motorised use of unsealed highways.


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For we walk by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7
When God sends a message to us through scripture it is never by accident. In Isaiah 55:11, God says that wherever He sends His word it never returns empty, but always achieves the special purpose for which it was sent.
Prayerfully consider the bible verse that inspired this painting and know that the Mighty God of all the heavens has reached out to touch you this moment!
2 Corinthians 5:7. Faith- Not Emotion. My Utmost For His Highest. Copyright 2014 by Mark Lawrence. All Rights Reserved.
This painting was inspired by the moving devotions penned and published by Oswald Chambers in his powerful devotional book, My Utmost for His Highest.
This Christian modern art is available as a fine art Christian print, and as a large-format Collectors Edition hand embellished giclee. These exquisite, embellished giclees are completely contour over-painted by hand, signed, numbered and certificated by artist Mark Lawrence. Collectors Editions are available at MarkLawrenceGallery.com.
Contact email@example.com if we can assist you in any way with your Mark Lawrence acquisition.
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Gov. Sandoval will release budget requests next week
December 7, 2012
Amid bipartisan legislative calls for release of agency budget requests withheld by his administration, Gov. Brian Sandoval announced Thursday that by the end of next week he will release the list of "items for special consideration" — budget enhancements — sought by the agencies."The governor has nearly completed his review of the items for special consideration and will release them no later than next Friday," Chief of Staff Gerald Gardner told the Appeal on Thursday.Although those requests have been provided both to lawmakers and the public in the past, Sandoval initially refused to give them out this year saying that if those items aren't included in the budget he will soon submit to the Legislature they are just a wish list — in effect, working papers and not public documents.Lawmakers charged that refusing to give them and the public a full picture of what agencies believe they need in the coming budget is a violation of state law."The governor is not entitled to pick and choose which laws he wants to follow," Democratic lawmakers said in a statement this week.The full agency request are supposed to become public Oct. 15 during the process of building the governor's proposed budget, according to NRS 353.The "items for special consideration" were also listed as part of the agency requests submission in the budget instructions issued this year by Sandoval's Department of Administration.Democratic legislators this past week made it clear if the list wasn't released they would propose legislation to fix the problem.One of the most controversial items in that list is the projected cost of expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. Originally estimated to cost the state upwards of $86 million a year, those projected costs may actually be as low as $18 million.Sandoval countered his office was in "full compliance with statutory requirements." "As a former legislator, I respect the Legislature and its process," he said. "However, it would be improper for me to give the Legislature and the public a false impression as to what may or may not be contained in my proposed state budget."After I have had a full opportunity to consider agency wish lists and their budget impacts, I will gladly forward the agency wish lists to the Legislature."The administration's rift with lawmakers came to light during an interim committee meeting in October, first reported by the Nevada News Bureau, an online publication, when legislators asked about the special budget requests. But it escalated this week with pressure on Sandoval by the state Democratic Party, reporters and political commentators."The net impact of this is to hide — yes, hide — from the Legislature and the public what agencies have requested, only allowing the superior caste, aka the Executive Branch, to see what the governor has recommended," wrote political journalist Jon Ralston. Sandoval's refusal also appears to conflict with the spirit of a law passed by the 2011 Legislature and signed by the governor implementing a performance-based budgeting system, a concept embraced by his administration. That bill, AB428, says the governor "may authorize or direct an agency to hold public hearings" on agency budget requests — a provision that doesn't require hearings but encourages public discussion."One of the things we were trying to accomplish is to make more information an easier information available to the public," state Sen. Debbie Smith, D-Sparks, a sponsor of the bill, said Thursday. "Truly the spirit of AB248 was about more access, more participation."I was really hoping that (the administration) would embrace that … to give the public a little more opportunity to weigh in on some of those budget areas."