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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 2/10/2013 (1451 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
The Sisler Spartans visited the Grant Park Pirates Wednesday in Winnipeg High School Football League junior varsity action. The Free Press was there as the Pirates rolled to a 42-19 victory.


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Donniel Hartman
I am an optimist, and new elections generally inspire me to hope. As new parties and new personalities enter into the fray, I find myself anticipating the new ideas and thinking that will enter into our political discourse and open up new horizons for Israel.
This optimism often causes me to vote for the latest new party, the one that has not yet disappointed me. My track record hasn't been that great, but as an optimist, I am not inclined to allow past failures to colour my hope for the future.
This election season started with great promise, and, indeed, new parties and very talented individuals have emerged across the political spectrum. The problem is that this influx hasn't generated the expected new ideas. It is possible that this is the consequence of an election whose outcome is already clear, with the only issue up for grabs being the elements that will constitute the right-wing bloc that will lead the country afterward – whether Likud-Beiteinu will get 35 or 38 seats, or Habayit Hayehudi, 12 or 15.
The parties aren't campaigning to win, for it is already clear who will win. The campaign is about increasing one's party size by one or two seats over the latest projections and most significantly, avoiding mistakes that might lead to a decline of one to two seats.
These elections are boring. Not only are they challenging for an unrepentant optimist such as me, they are also dangerous for Israel and its future. Israel and Zionism are about ideas, about ways in which the national homeland of the Jewish People will represent and embody aspirations for justice, decency and intelligence within our foreign, military, economic and social policies. They are about creating an exemplary society, which, while grounded within realpolitik, nevertheless continually aspires to change it for the better. When Israel stops leading with ideas, and our politicians are the great protectors of the status quo, Israel becomes ever-more distanced from its true purpose.
One of the more exasperating examples of the mediocre rut into which our political thinking has descended is the debate within Likud-Beiteinu as to whether to include in the party platform Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's 2009 Bar-Ilan University speech supporting a two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinians. The speech put an end to the affiliation of the Likud party with the dreams of a Greater Israel and tacitly admitted that settlements in certain areas of Judea and Samaria would have to be dismantled for the sake of peace.
The reason given by some of the more moderate voices within the party for removing the speech from the platform is that given Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas's apparent policy to sidestep direct negotiations with Israel, we should not "reward" him with such a prize. There are others who today play a far more central role in the leadership of the Likud party, who want it removed because it contradicts their ideology, which still holds fast to the fantasy of a Greater Israel.
What both hold in common is the belief that the current status quo is sustainable and plays in Israel's favour. They are at home in a politics devoid of new ideas and may consider expending effort to produce them only after they are inspired by evidence of new thinking on the other side. This is a path that produces not a greater Israel, but a smaller one.
A second example of mediocrity is being exemplified by the Labor party's decision to avoid speaking about foreign policy in its current campaign, in the hope that a focus on economic and social justice disconnected from the party's past peace platform may "fool" one or two mandates away from the centre-right. This is a policy well at home in the current election culture and may ensure Labor the accolade of being the biggest party amongst those who lost. It is, however, a poor service to a party that in theory aspires to lead, and an even poorer service to the country.
In a democracy, the opposition plays a central role as generators of ideas and as watchdogs against stagnation. When the opposition is leading the charge down the path of complacency, the dangers to Israel's future are multiplied.
When functioning well, an election season serves to put forth noble and naive ideas that everyone knows need to be and inevitably will be tempered by the reality of the day after the elections. Cynics may argue that a campaign is about putting forth the lies that the population wants to hear. I believe that its purpose is to set forth the goals that give the electorate a window into the minds and hearts of those who aspire to represent us, the goals to which they are committed so long as reality doesn't get in the way.
We need to reconnect to the political discourse of hope and aspirations. Of course we have peace plans. Let's talk about them, debate them and figure out which ones best serve our values, goals, interests and concerns. The fact that we may have nobody to talk with has never stopped Jews from talking. We are the People of the Book, who have spent 3,000 years putting forth ideas and chiselling away at the rock of reality until we penetrate it.
Let the dreaming and talking begin. May the next month until the elections be filled with a competition over innovation, a rivalry to discover new ways to change the status quo and place Israel on a trajectory to a better future. The job of the politician is to lead. Please begin to do your job.
Donniel Hartman is president of Shalom Hartman Institute and director of the Engaging Israel Project.

subset: commoncrawl


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Cheaper than a semester on campus?
Yes, it is possible! WCSC tuition is the same as on-campus tuition at EMU, and is paid to EMU as any other semester. All scholarships and financial aid follow you to DC, and you do not need to pay a cross-cultural fee. Also, you will not need to buy textbooks for WCSC—they are provided for you. Furthermore, EMU students who are workstudy eligible, work at a qualifying internship, and come to the WCSC during the fall or spring semester, can receive $750 in workstudy checks throughout the semester; all other EMU students will receive an $750 stipend in the form of a tuition credit. WCSC students who are not EMU students are rarely able to receive workstudy money (Bluffton University students cannot receive workstudy money).
Tuition + Room and Board
|Financial Aid
|Same as on campus
|Same as on campus
|About $7,136
|Stafford Loans
Summer costs: $3,500 (tuition), $3,486 (room and board), $150 (activity fee) = $7,136
Other Expenses
|Food (3 Meals/Day):
|Transportation to Internship:
|Retreat in West Virginia:
|Anacostia Canoe Trip:
|WCSC textbooks:
|Optional Outside Class Tuition:
|Optional Outside Class Textbooks:
|Not Covered
|Other Transportation:
|Not Covered, $1.60-$4.60/Ride
|Some Covered*
Ways to Defray Costs
|$750 available (except in summer) to EMU students, but check with your financial aid office.
|WCSC 'Stipend':
|$750 account credit provided to non-workstudy eligible EMU students (except in summer).
|Odd Jobs:
|WCSC can often pay students to help with gardening and house maintenance.
|DC is one of the most bike-friendly cities, and we have 2 WCSC bikes.
|Leave Your Car:
|Save on a few months of car insurance/gas and take your car off the road.
|Part-Time Work:
|Although discouraged, students may hold a part-time job while in WCSC.
|Included Events:
|*Several theater, music, or dance performances are included in program.
|Grocery Money:
|*May be used for group outings with permission of the directors.
|Free Events:
|There are plenty of free things to do in DC!


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It figures that prolific dunker Blake Griffin would also be able to prevent dunks.
The Los Angeles Clippers forward made the highlights Friday night by cleanly rejecting Brooklyn Nets point guard Deron Williams at the rim, then cupping the rebound.
Griffin even had the presence to outlet to a teammate as he was hitting the deck.
The rest of the night didn't go as well for Griffin or the Clips; they lost 86-76 at Barclays Center.


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Amazon Kindle Fire HD 7 - Amazon Kindle Fire HD 7"
The Amazon Kindle Fire HD 7" showing Gear Live.
You can buy the Kindle Fire HD on Amazon.
|‹Amazon Kindle Fire HD 7 Gear Live
|Amazon Kindle Fire HD 7 volume rocker and power›
© Gear Live Inc. – User-posted content, unless source is quoted, is licensed under a Creative Commons Public Domain License. Gear Live graphics, logos, designs, page headers, button icons, videos, articles, blogs, forums, scripts and other service names are the trademarks of Gear Live Inc.


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Are you looking for a high-quality, but affordable lotion or cream? Check out what Swanson has to offer. We are proud to offer the lowest online prices on natural lotions and moisturizing creams. With products from over 50 different brands, you are sure to find the product with the ingredients you are looking for right here! Check out our selection of cruelty free, gluten free and vegan lotions and creams too!
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On the Southern edge of the Tennessee border, a small town by the name of South Pittsburg whirs with the sounds of a foundry, of melting pots, sand blasting and seasoning machines. It is here where cast iron and steel cookware are created by American craftsmen. True local and artisanal kitchen wares for even the most discerning consumer are designed and manufactured every … [Read more...]
Lodge 10″ Seasoned Steel Skillet :: Made in U.S.A.
11 June 2013 by · Leave a Comment


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May 09
Loving Orange
Are you looking to add color, warmth and energy to your home? How about ORANGE?? Check it out in this house I just styled. The orange accents, collected by these world travelers, are vibrant, rich, cozy and unique.
Now, these are obviously one of a kind pieces…something many of us don't have the time to search out and collect.
But wait…. Have you checked out your local decorating sources lately? Orange is everywhere! Homegoods, Pier1, Target, World Market, Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel and many other stores are loaded with beautiful orange things. You'll see candles, rugs, pillows, silk flowers, art, lamps, towels, pottery and much much more.
Like tables and chairs:
And even clever wall signs that just may have inspired Princess Beatrice's Royal Wedding hat!
What did you think of that?
Sorry… got sidetracked.
Anyway, did you know that it only takes 3 colorful items to make a HUGE difference in a room? Why not pick up a few bright new accents to give your home a fresh and HOT summer look?! You could even start your shopping at the grocery store with a bag of these….
Related posts:


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As soon as the Boilers' Big Ten tourney experience is over, which will come Thursday against Ohio State, shut it down. Don't play again until next season.
The NCAA and NIT events ain't happening. Not without a breakthrough Big Ten tourney performance, which is as likely as Notre Dame joining the Big Ten.
Yes, Purdue (15-16) could finally stop treating basketball as if it was Rubik's cube on steroids and upset its way to the finals, or maybe even to a title (and earn the automatic NCAA tourney bid), but if you've seen its down-the-stretch play, you know how likely that is.
And if calls come from the College Basketball Invitational or College Insider or, heck, Gus Macker, don't answer. Put the season to rest. Take spring break as a much needed time away from the sport and each other. Come back refreshed, renewed and recommitted to getting the program back to the powerhouse it should be.
And speaking of the CBI, you have to pay to play in that not-close-to-prime event. Plus, Purdue is hosting women's NCAA tourney opening-round games, which will tie up Mackey Arena from March 21 to 23. The Boilers would have to travel that weekend, adding to the expense.
What would you get out of it? Figure a couple of meaningless games against mediocre competition, and probably more reason to get frustrated over disappointing performance.
Is that really going to help 10 months from now in Big Ten play?
Of course not.
Plus, with two players already finished — forward Jay Simpson for his career because of a heart condition, guard Sterling Carter because of a knee injury — why push a depleted roster that plays without chemistry?
Purdue tried the CBI last year. It was, in fact, the first Big Ten team to play in the event. The Boilers went 1-1, beating Western Illinois, losing to Santa Clara and finishing 16-18.
Coach Matt Painter has been noncommittal about a postseason beyond the Big Ten tourney. The focus is on this week at Indianapolis' Bankers Life Fieldhouse. The Boilers, who lost twice to Ohio State (23-8) this year, have to win four games to earn the automatic NCAA tourney bid. They'd have to go 2-1 (losing in the semifinals) to finish at .500 and make the minimum NIT requirement, although 3-1 (losing in the finals) might be necessary to get a bid.
For the record, Purdue is 6-7 in the Big Ten tourney under Painter, including going 3-0 while winning the 2009 championship.
In the meantime, consecutive losing season fuels discontent. Purdue is 31-33 in that stretch, 13-23 in the Big Ten. For a program that has won 22 Big Ten titles, this is really not cool.
"We've been inconsistent," Painter said. "You have to be able to do basic things to win. When you don't take care of the ball, when you don't take good shots, when you have defensive breakdowns, it's not a good recipe for success.
"The struggling part for me as a coach is we've had stretches where we were good. Then we'd revert back to where you didn't know the identity of your team. You have to learn to play organized ball."
Painter has to rebuild the culture. He did it once after Purdue faded in Gene Keady's final seasons.
For six years Painter had it going as well as any coach ever at Purdue (including a Big Ten title, a conference tourney championship and consecutive Sweet 16s) and only a bad break with Robbie Hummel's knee injury prevented a Final Four run.
That was in 2010, but it might as well have been the days of ancient Sparta for as much relevance as it has now.
There are plenty of reasons for the decline. Start with recruiting. Specifically, not getting in-state standouts Gary Harris (Michigan State), Brandon Dawson (Michigan State), Glenn Robinson III (Michigan) and Mitch McGary (Michigan) hurt.
Dawson, Robinson and McGary are from northwest Indiana, which was once a Boiler recruiting hotbed. E'Twaun Moore was from there. So were Hummel and Glenn "Big Dog" Robinson, among others.
Painter says he doesn't focus on guys who don't want to be at Purdue, but on guys who do. Fine, but the sooner he lands elite in-state players again, the better. And that goes way beyond just talent. The Boilers were at their best when they had tough-minded guys such as Brian Cardinal and Chris Kramer.
"We have to recruit a tougher player, a more unselfish player," Painter said. "We have some of those guys in our program. Some we don't. We have to get that out of them or maybe this isn't their place. That's my fault.
"This isn't a high school district (where players attend schools based on where they live). I recruited those guys. This position we're in is my fault."
For the record, Painter just offered Indianapolis Brebeuf senior point guard P.J. Thompson. The 5-10 Thompson isn't considered a top prospect, but he is tough and unselfish.
Much more was expected from this group. There is talent with center A.J. Hammons (who made the Big Ten's all-defense team and honorable mention ); guards Ronnie and Terone Johnson, Bryson Scott and Kendall Stephens (who made the conference's all-freshman team); and forwards Basil Smotherman, Rapheal Davis and Errick Peck.
Hammons averages 10.7 points, 7.4 rebounds and 3.0 blocks. It was 12.4 points and 7.7 rebounds in Big Ten play.
Stephens averages 8.0 points. He has 63 three-pointers.
With all this, a winning record was the minimum goal, but a six-game losing streak to end the regular season ruined that. Inconsistency happened at the worst times.
"These are things happen last year, and just continued," Painter said. "Each guy made improvements, but you find out about guys when adversity sets in. You have to be able to swallow pride, show more patience, follow a scouting report. Then you own the problems. That's hard to do.
"When you own them, you correct them. When you don't and play the blame game, that's just a vicious cycle. Its what losing teams do instead of owning what's going on.
I try to do that. ... You hope it trickles to the guys, and they own their behavior. When you do that, you can make corrections. Then you're moving in the right direction. That's what we have to do."
In an ideal world, it starts Thursday against Ohio State, and continues through Sunday. In a realistic world, it ends Thursday.
Yes, that means the season.
More Information
Up nextTipoff: Purdue vs. Ohio State, 2:30 p.m., Thursday, Big Ten tourney
Radio: 1380-AM
Online: For more on college sports, follow Pete DiPrimio via Twitter at www.twitter.com/pdiprimio


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Moritz Law Library
- Library Home
- Legal Research Databases
- Research Guides
- OSU Libraries/WorldCat@OSU
- Library Catalog
- My Record
- Opinio Juris
- Moritz Legal Information Blog
- Exam Archives
- Audio/Visual Services
- About the Moritz Law Library
- New Acquisitions
Research Guides: Interviewing Information and Resources
The following books are available at the Moritz Law Library's Reserve Room in the Job Resources collection. Some are entirely dedicated to interviews, while others have chapters on the topic.
- Clifford Ennico, The Legal Job Interview: Winning the Law-Related Job in Today's Market Reserve KF297 .E56 2008 (View Catalog Record)
- Ursula Feri-Perry, Your First Year As a Lawyer Revealed: Secrets, Opportunities, and Successes! (Chapter 6)
Reserve KF297.F873 2010 (View Catalog Record)
- Erika M. Finn, The insider's guide to getting a big firm job: what every law student should know about interviewing
Reserve KF297 .F56 2009 c.2 (View Catalog Record)
- Irene Hahn, Building a Better Legal Profession's Guide to Law Firms: The Law Student's Guide to Finding the Perfect Law Job (Chapters 2-3)
Reserve KF297.B85 2009 (View Catalog Record)
- Richard Hermann, Managing Your Legal Career: Best Practices for Creating the Career You Want (Part V)
Reserve KF297.H45 2010 (View Catalog Record)
- Richard Hermann, Lawyer's Guide to Finding Success in any Job Market (Chapter 8)
Reserve KF 297 .H44 2009 (View Catalog Record)
- Shelia Neilsen, Job Quest for Lawyers
Reserve KF297 .N54 2011 (View Catalog Record)
- Natalie Prescott, Nail Your Law Job Interview: The Essential Guide to Firm, Clerkship, Government, In-House, and Lateral Interviews
Reserve KF297 .P74 2009 (View Catalog Record)
- Katy Schubert, The Law Firm Interview: A Guide for Law Students
Reserve KF297 .S38 2002 (View Catalog Record)
- Marcia Shannon, The Lawyer's Career Management Handbook (Chapter 17)
Reserve KF 297.L374 2010 (View Catalog Record)
- Kimm Walton, Guerrilla Tactics for Getting the Legal job of Your Dreams (Chapter 9)
Reserve KF297.W34 2008 (View Catalog Record)
Last updated 8/22/12


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ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. - A 28-year-old St. Johns County man was arrested on a charge of animal cruelty after deputies said he cut his dog's throat Sunday night.
Deputies and Animal Control went to Randal Hart's home at 10:20 a.m. Monday when a witness contacted the Sheriff's Office to report what happened, investigators said.
The witness told deputies that Hart stabbed the dog several times and cut its throat, investigators said.
Hart then was seen dragging the howling dog to a nearby plot of land, deputies said.
Hart was found at his home Monday morning. It took a deputy and Animal Control officer about 45 minutes to
find the dog, a St. Bernard mix, in a grassy area near the home. The dog was still alive but in obvious distress.
The Animal Control officer transported the dog to Atlantic Veterinarian Hospital for emergency surgery.
Hart told investigators he stabbed the dog because it bit a kitten and needed to be "put down." The deputy also found the kitten and saw no injury to it as it was playing with another dog on the property.
Hart was booked into the St. Johns County jail.
Copyright 2013 by News4Jax.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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A THIEF caught red-handed trying to steal a farmer's £7,500 quad bike fled empty-handed after a chase, a court heard.
Nicholas Gorton, his brother Luke and a third individual had arrived at Brian Gibson's farm, near Kendal, with a van to take the sports vehicle, Burnley Crown Court was told.
Mr Gibson saw the trio trying to push the quad bike into the back of a hired van, along with a £700 generator.
Prosecutor Jacob Dyer said the farmer attempted to block their escape, along a narrow country lane, with his tractor.
But the thieves managed to squeeze past the tractor and fled. Later, witnesses saw them attempting to dump the quad bike and generator.
Mr Dyer said: "They seemed to be in some kind of panic because one of them was knocked down by the quad bike."
Police traced the vehicle used by the thieves to Practical Van Hire and the Gortons were later arrested. Mr Dyer said that there was a covert audio and video recording within the van which identified the brothers and further established that they had visited the Kendal farm previously on a scouting mission.
The court heard Nicholas Gorton was also held after a builder's van was broken into at a housing development site in Wiswell Lane, Whalley, on January 21 this year.
Gorton stole tools worth £970 but he was traced through his DNA after leaving blood near a window which had been broken on the vehicle.
Gorton, of Harold Avenue, Burnley, admitted two offences of theft and was given a five-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, with 12 months probation supervision, 150 hours community service and a £250 compensation order.
William Donnelly, defending, said his client, a father-of-three, now wanted to live a law-abiding life so he could win back the trust of his partner.
Luke Gorton, 29, of Greenock Close, Burnley, was jailed for three years in March for heroin dealing and the Kendal theft.


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Firefighters from two fire departments - Leesburg/Plain Township and Warsaw/Wayne Territory - were needed to extract the drivers from both vehicles involved in the crash, according to the release. Both were airlifted to Parkview Regional Medical Center.
According to the release, preliminary investigation indicates that a 2012 Ford Edge driven by 41-year-old Jennifer M. Gholson, of Warsaw, was southbound when it crossed over the center line. The Ford Edge struck a northbound 1998 GMC pickup truck that was being driven by Sam E. Crace, also 41, of Roann.
Crace sustained extensive injuries to his lower extremities, according to the release, while Gholson had serious internal injuries.
Investigators are still trying to determine why Gholson's vehicle may have crossed the center line, with the investigation being handled by the Kosciusko County F.A.C.T. Crash Investigation Team.


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Jennings out again, but groin injury 'not bad'
ST. PETERSBURG -- Rays center fielder Desmond Jennings was absent from the starting lineup Saturday -- his second straight day out with a sore groin -- but both he and manager Joe Maddon insisted it was nothing serious.
Jennings said he aggravated his groin while diving back to first base Thursday night against the Blue Jays with R.A. Dickey on the mound. Maddon said Jennings was available to play Saturday night against the Padres, if needed, and Jennings figured he could return for Sunday's series finale.
"Yeah, it's possible; I thought yesterday I could be back today," Jennings said. "We'll see. It's not bad."
"He's fine, I'm just really taking it easy with him right now," Maddon said. "I think he might be fine by [Sunday]. I like the idea of giving him a rest right now. I think with a little respite right now, this guy is going to be even better when we bring him on back. We'll just see. Truly, there's nothing wrong. I just want to give him a break, and it's working out pretty nicely right now."
Adam Berry is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter at @adamdberry. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Despite the Midwest's wet spring and summer this year, most crops are now in the ground and plants have matured enough to produce foliage. Soil analysis laboratories are receiving whole plants, leaves, and clippings for plant tissue analysis – an examination and resulting recommendation of foliar and soil application to improve crop quality. However, without correct sample collection, plant tissue analysis accuracy can be greatly reduced.
"Plant nutrient makeup varies throughout the growing season. The recommendation systems that our laboratory utilizes to evaluate each sample have been developed based on specific plant parts at specific stages of growth. It's important that the crops are sampled the same way that the research was developed so that the user can gain the most from the test," explains Dustin Sawyer, laboratory manager for Rock River Laboratory.
Following crop type and stage of growth guidelines, growers and consultants can easily select the correct plant portion, and collect the necessary number of plants, for the laboratory to provide reliable data to recommend the most accurate corrective measures. For easy instruction, growers and consultants can find guideline tables at: uwlab.soils.wisc.edu/pubs/pa_sampling.pdf
In the case of an assumed nutrient deficiency, sample collection should include the same portion of the plants, in the same growth stage, from both the affected area and the normal area. "This analysis of suspected plants versus the control allows for a comparison of nutritional statuses for the best assessment," explains Sawyer. He also notes time is of the essence for samples of suspected nutrient deficiencies. "The sooner we can receive the plant tissue samples for an assumed nutrient deficiency, the better the opportunity that we can identify the deficiency and start the corrective action to minimize losses," says Sawyer.
Beyond sample collection, handling, preparation and shipping of plant tissues have also proved to be areas of vulnerability to obtaining accurate analysis. After sampling, those handling the samples should follow preparation guidelines[1]:
- Remove sample roots or foreign material
- Dust off plant tissue – removing any remaining soil
- Do not wash the sample
- Air-dry the sample for 1-2 days utilizing a heating vent or the sun (only necessary if sample will reach the laboratory more than one day after sampling)
- Loosely pack the sample in a paper envelop or paper bag when shipping (avoid tight packing)
- Avoid utilizing plastic or polyethylene bags for sample shipment
While analysis of plant tissues can identify and help correct current crop deficiencies and challenges, the reactive recommendations can be improved with the proactive means of combining plant tissue and soil analysis. "Complex environmental interactions can lead to nutrient deficiencies in the plant, even when the soil may have an adequate supply for supporting the crops grown," says Sawyer. "Sampling from plant tissue and soil at the same time gives us a comprehensive look at the nutrients and relationship between plant and soil, which allows us to make a more accurate and sustainable recommendation for applications."
To learn more about soil and plant tissue analysis, growers and consultants can visit Rock River Laboratory's resource room at: http://bit.ly/1mvrirj.
Rock River Laboratory provides production assistance to the agricultural industry through the use of advanced analytical systems, progressive techniques, and research-supported analyses. Employing a team of top specialists in their respective fields, Rock River Laboratory is built on providing accurate, cost-effective, and timely analytical results to customers, while featuring unsurpassed customer service.


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Existing Loan Holders
Any unauthorized use of this website is a crime punishable by law.
*Representative are registered, securities are sold, and investment advisory services offered through CUNA Services, Inc. (CBSI), member FINRA/SIPC, a registered broker/dealer and investment advisor, 2000 Heritage Way, Waverly, Iowa 50677, toll-free 866.512.6109. Non-deposit investment and insurance products are not federally insured, involve investment risks, may lose value and are not obligations of or guaranteed by the financial institution. CBSI is under contract with the financial institution, through the financial services program to make securities available to members. CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. is a registered broker/dealer in all fifty states of the United States of America.
Mortgage information is courtesy of Homeowners Advantage, in partnership with Palisades FCU. Homeowners Advantage is a Licensed Mortgage Banker – NYS Dept. of Financial Services. Principle Address: 4 Winners Circle, Albany, NY 12205, NMLS#: 290363.


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Does anyone have it? I have to wait a couple years because I'm so cheap.
Haha, bucket on the head, awesome!;)
I'm not a proper gamer since probably Quake 3 era or something like that. I do buy games every now and then though, I bought Skyrim out of curiosity as I liked the new Fallouts.
I've only managed to play 6-7 hours so far. I think the game is good, especially that - in terms of tech, I didn't expect much more than a 're-skinned, upgraded Fallout 3 / NV in a fantasy setting' - so I got what I expected to get. I like the graphics / sounds / music, story stuff seems cool too. I haven't encountered anything stupid like killer carts yet, it has a few bugs though.
I think the most buggy bit is combat (magic) - quite often the target you're aiming at (perfectly) remains unharmed, for no reason. Example, on one occasion I literally barely survived a fight with a... horse!! (yep, a powerful mage kicking ass with lightning and fire nearly killed by a domestic animal
Other than that, pretty enjoyable
I didn't expect much more than a 're-skinned, upgraded Fallout 3 / NV in a fantasy setting' - so I got what I expected to get.
That's kind of what I figured also. It's gotten good reviews.
Getting it on PC, because of the mods, but waiting (impatiently) for the first patch. Hear it's pretty buggy...
It's not that buggy, I've been playing it nonstop for the last few days and I haven't really encountered any major issues.


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The holiday season in Fortuna is one very busy time of year. There are parties, parades, business open houses, and much more, such as the window-decorating contest in downtown Fortuna.
This year, 30 percent of the downtown merchants decorated their storefronts and windows in the holiday spirit.
First place and People's Choice awards were presented to Antique Depot at 1122 Main St. Their patriotic holiday design includes flags and a tribute to the military.
Strehl's Family Shoes and Repair at the corner of 12th and Main streets captured second place and third place was presented to Country Rose, at 1137 Main St.
There was a tie for Honorable Mention between Hoppy's Froyo and Sequoia Gas.
"Additional honorable mentions were given to the top 10 businesses not selected for the People's Choice award, as a thank you for participating and actively seeking votes," said Fortuna Business Improvement District Executive Director Dianna Rios.
The top 10 businesses receiving honorable mentions included A.M. Baird Engineering, Country Rose, Dakota's Designs, Ferndale Jewelers, Fortuna Art and Old Things, Fortuna Theater, Hoppy's Froyo, Horizon Business Products, Rain All Day Books, and Trendz.
Another seasonal activity, Shop Fortuna for the Holidays, generated a prosperous business climate in the Friendly City during the three-week period this month.
Shoppers were motivated to spend their money in Fortuna, save their receipts and turn them in to see if they would be selected to win Fortuna Bucks. Fortuna Bucks work just like cash, but are only redeemable at businesses in the Friendly City, and can be used to buy something fun or even pay the water bill.
This year's winners are all Fortuna residents: Tracey Johnson received $200 in Fortuna Bucks, Steve Verducci received $100 in Fortuna Bucks, and Susan Burgess received $50 in Fortuna Bucks.
The Shop Fortuna promotion was held from Nov. 19 through Dec. 19. One entry was placed in the drawing for every $200 in receipts from Fortuna purchases.


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We've all been there, driving down the road when the "service engine soon" light or another dashboard icon pops on. No matter which light it is, it's an indication that something is wrong and it's probably a good idea to get the car serviced.
Very much like your automobile, your milking parlor is also a machine that needs regular service to get the most operating efficiency out of it. Unfortunately, due to the recent financial free-fall of the dairy industry, many things on the farm have gone by the wayside, including regularly scheduled maintenance of the milking parlor.
The problem with skimping on parlor maintenance is that milk quality and overall herd health are impacted. "It's like sending your wife down the road in a car with bald tires — you wouldn't do it. But dairymen will go ahead and milk 2,400 cows with bald tires," says David Reid, owner of Rocky Ridge Dairy Consulting in Hazel Green, Wis. Here's a look at five areas in your milking parlor that need regular servicing.
Change milk hoses at least every six months.
"The milk hose is a simple subject, yet poor barn practices result in losses of possible bonus premiums," says Ken Franks, a milk-quality consultant with 25 years experience. "Many people spend too much money on super-quality milk hoses, but then refuse to change them in a timely manner because of the cost."
Reid agrees that most dairy farms grossly over-use their milk hoses. This is an issue because if milk hoses are overused, cracks develop, which allows air and bacteria to get in the line at the connections to the claw or other milk line components.
Another area of concern is length of milk hose. "It's not uncommon to go into a parlor and see milk hoses of all different lengths attached to the claw," says Reid. The problem is that if hoses are too long or too short, they can become twisted and won't properly align the claw with the cow's udder. As a result, the cow doesn't get milked out completely, which impacts milk production and quality.
Check claws for cracks.
If the machine is kicked by a cow in the parlor, the claw nipple can easily cause a hole or tear in the short milk tube of the liner. "It's important to check all liners for tears or holes at the start of every milking," says Reid.
Air vents in the claw also need to be kept clear and unblocked.
The hole in the claw is usually about 0.8 to 1.0 millimeters. The proper factory-supplied tool should be used to unblock the hole if it becomes plugged. If the proper tool is not used, the air vent can be drilled larger, especially if needles are used. This impacts air flow in the claw. The proper tool should be kept in the parlor at all times.
If the milking unit or claw has any internal gaskets, these should be replaced at least every six months.
Replace liners regularly.
There are a wide range of liners available in the industry, so each liner should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations. All liners have a definite life span.
The longer liners are used, there is a greater chance of the rubber deteriorating and bacteria being harbored. Older liners also squawk more, which can have a major impact on the new mastitis infection rate. Liner tears can also result in milk getting into the vacuum line.
"Unfortunately, a lot of dairymen use liners far beyond when they should," says Reid.
Ensure the pulsator is functioning properly.
As the pulsator opens and closes the liner, it extracts milk from the cow's udder. Typically, 60 percent of the time the pulsator is open, extracting milk, and 40 percent of the time it is closed, stimulating the teat end and pushing blood through the udder. "If the pulsator milk-to-rest ratio is off, a whole host of problems can occur," says Richard Avila, owner of Avila Dairy Equipment in Hanford, Calif. "When a dairyman calls with mastitis, the pulsator is one of the first things we go in and check."
Every manufacturer has rebuild recommendations for pulsators. The problem is, not everyone follows manufacturer recommendations. "If dairymen aren't going to follow manufacturer recommendations, it's important to try and rebuild the pulsators at least once or twice per year depending on herd size," says Avila.
The National Mastitis Council reports that the subtle effects of inadequate pulsation may be the single most important cause of poor milking performance and machinerelated mastitis problems.
5. Pipeline vacuum level Analyze vacuum levels. Vacuum is crucial to cow health. Too high or too low vacuum can cause damage to the teat ends.
Pipeline vacuum should be adjusted and checked regularly to achieve the correct average peak milk claw vacuum based on the liner being used on the dairy. Different liners can have different recommendations. Peak vacuum, measured between the first and second minute after attachment, should be measured on a regular basis. If vacuum levels are not correct, milking time and udder health can be affected and high-producing cows will not get milked enough.
One thing to note is that vacuum can be affected due to milk in the header. "This happens more than you might think," says Franks. A common cause, he says, is when a milker turns off the milk pump to change filters during milking. If he or she is too slow, or changes filters when the cows just start milking, the receivers will flood. While the vacuum trap ball should prevent this, many times it will not.
As mentioned earlier, liner leaks can cause milk to get into the vacuum line. Unfortunately, many vacuum lines do not contain a drain so the milk stays in the line. "I routinely uncap vacuum lines and find liquid milk or a buildup of old milk that has to be cleaned out," says Franks.
Don't overlook the vacuum pump itself when doing maintenance. If the pump is not included in the service, the capacity may be reduced which creates milkability issues such as slower milking or more liner squawks. The vacuum pump can also become cracked or damaged.
Avila notes that it is also important to have the automatic detachers operating at their maximum efficiency so the milking unit is removed from the cow at the appropriate time.
At the end of the day, it's very easy to add up cost of maintenance when bills come in the mail. But choosing to skimp on maintenance is like stepping over $100 bills to pick up nickels in savings, says Reid.
To ensure that milk hoses are cut to the exact length every time a new one is needed, David Reid, owner of Rocky Ridge Dairy Consulting in Wisconsin, suggests installing this hose-measuring aid.
First, establish the correct hose length for your milking parlor. Then, cut a PVC pipe to this length, placing a cap on one end. Be sure to cut out a section of the pipe next to the cap; this will allow employees to make sure the hose is all the way to the end of the pipe before cutting. Next, install the PVC pipe near the area where the milk hose is stored. "This simple device ensures your employees cut the hose to the exact length every time a hose needs to be replaced," explains Reid. It also saves the dairy money because milk hose is not wasted.
Reid also advises to keep several short sections of milk hose with the appropriate-sized stainless steel nipple in a covered container in the parlor to use if a cow short-loads or a heifer pushes far ahead. "If any of these hoses are used, they should be installed in any unit so the hose is cleaned like all milk hoses during the normal wash cycle," he adds.
Lower the cost of parlor maintenance
To lessen the financial impact of parlor maintenance, sit down with your dealer and set up a yearly maintenance schedule.
"Setting up a schedule for the year allows you to decide who is going to do what for service," says Richard Avila, owner of Avila Dairy Equipment in Hanford, Calif. "Each month, you can do a few things and spread the cost out over time." Knowing the cost of maintenance ahead of time allows the dairy to budget money for maintenance each month.
This should save you from getting a $20,000 bill in parts in an emergency situation, says David Reid, owner of Rocky Ridge Dairy Consulting in Hazel Green, Wis. It also saves you from having to shut the milking parlor down for three or four hours during an emergency and delays in harvesting milk.


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Mastroianni available to play, still dealing with sore foot
MINNEAPOLIS -- Outfielder Darin Mastroianni fouled a ball off his left foot during Spring Training and it's still sore, but he is available off the bench, Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said Wednesday.
Mastroianni made the roster as the club's fourth outfielder after losing out to rookie Aaron Hicks to be the club's starting center fielder. He's expected to be used as a pinch-runner and defensive replacement late in games when he doesn't start. He did just that on Wednesday, when he served as a pinch-runner for Josh Willingham in the eighth inning and remained in left field.
But Gardenhire said he wants to be cautious with Mastroianni in the early going, as he's not completely healthy just yet.
"He's fully available," Gardenhire said. "He tells me he can run even if it hurts. So I just want to know if he's available and can do what I need him to do. But he says there is pain involved and can get through it. So it bothers me a little bit."
Mastroianni has been participating in pregame workouts without any issues, but Gardenhire said he can tell he's not at 100 percent. The Twins also have Wilkin Ramirez on the roster as a backup outfielder as insurance.
"I've been watching him," Gardenhire said. "He's running all over, but he's not flying like he normally does. He's not there. But he's still faster than a lot of guys on our team."
Rhett Bollinger is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Bollinger Beat, and follow him on Twitter @RhettBollinger. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Sally Nogle said she doesn't consider herself a pioneer, though there's plenty of evidence to the contrary.
In her 30 years as an athletic trainer at Michigan State University, the Mountain View native has earned promotions no other woman working for the school – or in the Big Ten Conference – has achieved.
Nogle was the first female athletic trainer for a football team in the conference and in July was elevated to MSU's head athletic trainer – another first for the Big Ten. A year ago, she was the 12th woman inducted into the National Athletic Trainers' Association Hall of Fame.
Nogle (nee Eaves) attended Springer and Covington schools before graduating from Awalt High (now Mountain View) in 1975. She earned bachelor's and master's degrees from San Diego State University and a doctorate from Michigan State. Married with two children, Nogle has been a certified athletic trainer for 32 years.
The Town Crier's interview with Nogle follows.
TC: What drew you to the profession?
Nogle: My interest in health care and sports.
TC: Were you an athlete growing up? If so, what sports did you play?
Nogle: I played field hockey, volleyball, basketball and softball in high school. I also played volleyball and basketball for two years in college.
TC: What's the best part of your job?
Nogle: The best part of my job is the people I work with: my co-workers, athletes, coaches, physicians and administrators. It is also very rewarding to work with athletes who are injured and see them return to the sport they excel in and enjoy.
TC: What's the most difficult aspect of the job?
Nogle: The most difficult aspect is telling athletes they are injured severely enough that they cannot continue to play that season or sometimes ever again. The athletes have worked very hard toward their goals and to have one play shatter their dreams is very difficult for them to deal with.
TC: As head athletic trainer, how many sports do you serve at Michigan State?
Nogle: We have 25 sports at MSU – about 800 athletes.
TC: What's a typical week like during the football season? And what's game day like?
Nogle: The football season is a busy time, requiring me to work seven days a week. Mondays are the athletes' day off from practice and lifting, so we do administrative duties and treatments all day. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday are practice days. We do evaluations and treatments all morning, tape ankles and do more treatments in the afternoon, go to team meetings and go to practice.
At practice we look at new injuries or help an athlete stretch, tape or brace an injury, then after practice we look at any new injuries and work with our doctors. I also meet with the coaches each day and provide them with an injury report and discuss with them what the injured athletes will be able to do or not do during practice.
Friday is mostly a treatment day, team meetings, and a walk-through practice. The night before a game we stay at a hotel, so we do treatments at the hotel.
On game day we do treatments again and start taping ankles about four to five hours prior to game time. We get to the stadium two hours before the game and tape more ankles and a lot of wrists and thumbs. … Once the game starts we are watching the field, so we can take care of any injuries that may occur. After the game we look at the new injuries and determine if they need ice, wraps, braces, X-rays, etc.
Then on Sunday we again evaluate injuries and do treatments along with covering an easy workout.
Every day we have doctors around in the morning and after practice who we work with, so we spend time taking vital signs, updating medical records and discussing the injury and treatment plan. There are many administrative duties that we work around treatments and practice coverage.
TC: What is the most common injury you see?
Nogle: Ankle sprains and muscle strains are the most common injuries we deal with.
TC: What's your advice to athletes – from kids to weekend warriors to aspiring pros – when it comes to avoiding common injuries?
Nogle: To avoid injuries, a good core-strengthening program is important. Strength and endurance of the body parts used for the activity are important. A good program with a logical progression is the best way to prevent injuries.
TC: As the first female head trainer in the Big Ten and the 12th woman inducted into the National Athletic Trainers' Association Hall of Fame, do you consider yourself a pioneer?
Nogle: I started in athletic training when the profession wasn't that old and there were not that many women involved, so I do hope that my career has helped clear the path some for others to get to where they want to go. I have been blessed to have the opportunities that I have had because of my athletic training career, and I hope those who are just starting in the profession have more opportunities because of us older women in the field. So I do not call myself a "pioneer," and I am very humbled when others say that I am.
TC: What was the Hall of Fame induction experience like?
Nogle: The Hall of Fame induction ceremony and Hall of Fame event schedule at our national convention was very special. At the actual induction ceremony, the thousands of athletic trainers who acknowledged me and the other inductees was incredible. The best part was the many members of my family who were there to support and celebrate with me.
TC: You've not only worked with athletes at Michigan State, but also Olympic athletes at the 1984 and 1988 Summer Games. What do you consider the highlight of your career?
Nogle: It is hard to pick one highlight. The Olympic games were definitely highlights. Going to the Rose Bowl was a highlight. And the inductions into the Michigan Athletic Trainer's Society Hall of Fame and the National Athletic Trainer's Hall of Fame are highlights.


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G&L USA Basses
ASAT® Bass
Shown in Butterscotch Blonde over Swamp Ash, Hard Rock Maple neck with Vintage Tint Gloss neck finish
When Leo Fender† launched the G&L L-2000™ bass in 1980, it was clear he was ready to make history all over again. Never before had such a wide range of tones come from a single bass, and throughout its evolution the iconic L-2000 has continued to win the hearts of bassists of every style and musical taste. Once the ASAT guitar came around in '86, it didn't take long for Leo to apply this body shape to a bass. The ASAT Bass is essentially an L-2000 packed into an ASAT body shape, with a narrower 1 1/2" nut width to help balance the instrument. The result is one the coolest looking basses ever to come from Leo Fender, with all the power and flexibility of an L-2000. Tom Hamilton of Aerosmith has been a fan of ASAT Basses since the '90s and now has his own ASAT Bass Tom Hamilton signature model.
The foundation of the ASAT Bass is a pair of G&L Magnetic Field Design™ humbuckers backed by the flexible Tri-Tone™ control system, providing the sort of versatility that'll let you find your tone no matter what kind of bass line you're laying down. The Tri-Tone system features a trio of mini toggles for pickup selection, series/parallel signal routing and active/passive operation, as well as a trio of knobs for volume, treble and bass. With all that under the hood, Leo gave the ASAT Bass the kind of chops that'll fit in any situation, from classic R&B to power-packed rock to poppin' funk. What's more, the ASAT Bass features an innovative Leo Fender-designed Saddle-Lock™ bridge to transfer string energy right into the body end-grain for an incredibly resonant instrument. On the other end is a comfortable, C-shaped neck checking in with a comfortable 9 1/2" radius and 21 Jescar 57110 medium-jumbo nickel-silver frets ready to deliver silky playability.
Made in Leo Fender's historic G&L facility on Fender Avenue in Fullerton, California, the ASAT Bass is available with a wide range of custom options including body and neck woods, body and neck finishes, and neck profiles.
The G&L name, stylized G&L logo, distinctive "hook" headstock design, ASAT, L-2000, L-2500, M-2000, M-2500, Saddle-Lock, Magnetic Field Design and MFD are registered trademarks or trademarks of G&L Musical Instruments / BBE Sound, Inc.
† The personal name, likeness and signature of Mr. Clarence Leo Fender are property of G&L Musical Instruments / BBE Sound, Inc. and may not be used in any commercial capacity without prior approval. For enquiries regarding the use of the "Leo Fender" name, likeness or signature, please contact us. G&L is not associated with Fender Musical Instruments Corporation.
- PICKUPS: Two G&L Magnetic Field Design™ (MFD™) humbucking pickups
- BODY WOOD: Alder on Standard and all solid finishes, Swamp Ash on Premier Finishes
- NECK WOOD: Hard Rock Maple with Rosewood or Maple fingerboard
- NECK PROFILE: G&L 1 1/2" Medium C with 9 1/2" radius
- FRETS: Medium Jumbo, Jescar 57110 18% nickel silver
- TUNING KEYS: Custom G&L "Ultra-Lite" with aluminum tapered string posts
- BRIDGE: Leo Fender-designed G&L Saddle Lock with chrome-plated brass saddles
- ELECTRONICS: Tri-Tone™ system with 3-position pickup selector, series/parallel switch, 3-position pre-amp mode switch, volume, treble, bass
- CASE: deluxe Tolex hardshell


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Turkey - the bird that goes further
If you have managed to source a turkey that is free-range and locally produced this Christmas, you will no doubt want to make the most of every last morsel. Make your bird go further by reinventing leftovers into delicious meals that can span several days. It not only saves costs, but it's also good for you.
1. The bones
Bones form the basis of fine-quality, nutrient-dense stock - a great source of gelatine and minerals and the staple requirement for homemade soups, stews and risottos.
Making stock
Collect the bones from your roast turkey. Add the turkey neck, feet and wingtips if you have them, then place all of them in a cooking pot, add ¼ cup vinegar and cover with cold water.
You can also add fresh vegetables (carrots, celery, parsnip, onions or leeks) and herbs (thyme, rosemary, borage or nettle) for extra flavour and added nutrition.
Bring the contents of the cooking pot to the boil, and then reduce to a gentle simmer. Turkey stock needs a minimum of 1 hour to cook, but it can be cooked for up to 6-12 hours to extract the maximum nutrients from the bones.
When finished, drain the solids from the cooking pot and discard. The liquid can be stored in the fridge or freezer.
Asian-Turkey Soup
Bring one litre of turkey stock to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, add a handful of thin rice vermicelli noodles, 5 fresh baby corn, ½ cup thinly sliced mushrooms, 1 cup shredded leftover turkey meat and 1 bok choy cut into thin strips. Cook for 3 minutes. Reduce the heat and add a dash of soy sauce and Ume Su plum vinegar. Season to taste. Pour into four soup bowls and garnish with finely chopped spring onion, coriander and mint.
Serves 4
2. The meat
Leftover meat from your roast bird needs to be pulled off the carcass and refrigerated as soon as possible. It's worth separating it into white meat - which can be used for sandwiches and salads - and red meat - which is excellent for pies and stews.
Summer Risotto with garden greens and leftover turkey bits
Steam three cups of seasonal green vegetables - broad beans, asparagus spears and/or garden peas - until tender. Remove and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
Sauté 1 finely chopped leek in a large frypan with 2 tsp butter until lightly browned. Add 300g Arborio rice and 125mL white wine and allow the wine to absorb for 3-5 minutes. Add 500ml turkey stock - a little bit at a time so that the rice does not go gluggy. You may not need all the stock. Cook until the rice is clear but still firm. Stir through 1 tbsp mascarpone cheese, the green vegetables and 1 cup shredded turkey meat. Season to taste. Pour onto serving plates and garnish with fresh mint, parsley and borage leaves.
Turkey Salad in a jar (for the Boxing Day fishing trip)
In a 1-litre, wide-mouth glass jar place a handful of snow peas followed by six cherry tomatoes then scatter ½ cup shredded leftover turkey meat. Follow with a layer of thinly sliced carrot. Toss together a salad of lettuce leaves, balsamic vinegar, cold-pressed sunflower oil and olive oil. Add this to the jar then drizzle a little extra salad dressing down the edges before sealing with a lid.
3. The extra bits
The extra bits - the giblets, feet, neck and head - should never be thrown out: they are extremely nutritious and full of turkey goodness.
Quick and easy techniques for cooking gizzards, heart, liver and feet
If your bird comes with a gizzard (the stomach), once cooked, try chopping it up finely, then blending it with your gravy for additional flavour. Liver can be gently fried with onions and brandy, and then pureed with butter to make a pate. The heart can be simmered with butter and herbs, and then tossed with breadcrumbs. The neck and feet should be added to the stockpot!
Save the fat
Turkeys are one of the leanest breeds of poultry so there usually isn't a lot of fat available to render. However, if you buy your bird directly from a farmer, or find one that is free-range with all the bits (particularly the neck, back and tail) intact, you might be in luck.
The birds that contain the best quantity of fat, with the healthiest fatty acid profile, are those that have led a life close to what nature intended - with a diverse range of food in their diet and plentiful access to pastures where they are able to roam free.
Fat can be rendered from the cooking juices after roasting, or from the skin on the back, neck and tail before cooking. To render: cut off the areas of fat with some poultry shears, chop into small pieces and place in a small saucepan with roughly 1/3 cup water to every 500g fat. Place in a pan over a low heat and let it melt gently for 2-4 hours. When the skin turns a yellowy colour, strain off the fat through a cheesecloth into sterilised glass jars and repeat the process by adding more water. The rendered fat will keep in the refrigerator for up to three months.
Sydney Morning Herald


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In the resource depletion soup, one ingredient looms large – social equity. Equality is a function of population, social status aspirations and resources. With a small population, everyone can have reasonable equality. With unlimited resources, the same (although the amplitude generated by law of large numbers will exert outsized social pull from the top). But with large populations AND limits to resources, equity can only be reasonably attained if the activities that generate rank are not resource intensive. Via globalized markets, the cross border pursuit of profits has gradually morphed into a cross border pursuit of goals – money has become a global proxy for power and thus for status and money (profits) is a resource intensive international goal. Tonight's campfire takes yet another look at one of my oft-written about oildrum topics: how we compete for social status while facing limits to growth.
"Wealth – any income that is at least one hundred dollars more a year than the income of one's wife's sister's husband."
H. L. Mencken
Between at least Jason and myself, there have been over a dozen posts on TheOilDrum relating to status, resource competition, being happier with less, and changing societal carrot away from Veblen goods and conspicuous consumption. It seems a general theme is that once basic needs are met, relative status matters much more than absolute. I apologize I can't neatly compress all this into a concise post, but here's an update: (and here is a primer on the Psychological Roots of Resource Overconsumption, itself in need of an update).
In a new study on the rank income hypothesis a team led by psychologist Christopher Boyce studied over 80,000 people, their incomes, and overall life satisfaction. The researchers found that the ranked position of an individual's income predicted life satisfaction, whereas absolute income and reference income had no effect. This should be no surprise to any biologist familiar with the concept of relative fitness or sexual selection, but zero of the 30 references in the paper referenced biology or any of the evolutionary explanations of our neural penchant to compare ourselves to others.
Our study underlines concerns regarding the pursuit of economic growth. There are fixed amounts of rank in society—only one individual can be the highest earner. Thus, pursuing economic growth, although it remains a key political goal, might not make people any happier. The rank-income hypothesis may explain why increasing the incomes of all may not raise the happiness of all, even though wealth and happiness are correlated within a society at a given point in time.
Although general intuition tells us that having a good social standing makes us feel good, the idea that a good reputation is a 'reward' just like money has long been just an assumption. Recent neuro-imaging experiments however have shown that both reputation/rank and monetary rewards are processed in the same brain region – the striatum.
"We found that the brain reacts very strongly to the other players and specifically the status of the other players," Zink says. "We weren't expecting that profound a response," she adds, noting that the subjects seemed to be concerned with the hierarchy within the game even when it was of no consequence to how much money they could make.
These types of economic studies showing that relative vs absolute levels of consumption/wealth are potent drivers have been studied for a long time, since the Easterlin Paradox became a hot topic in the 1970s. One example was economist Robert Franks simple study asking people if they would prefer living in a 4,000 square foot house where all the neighboring houses were 6,000 square feet or a 3,000 square foot house where the surrounding houses were 2,000 square feet – the majority of people chose the latter – smaller absolute but higher relative size. Though high perceived relative fitness is a powerful behavioral carrot for individuals, the inevitable resulting inequality has pernicious effects on societies: eroding trust, increasing anxiety and illness, and excessive consumption. Health steadily worsens as one descends the social ladder, even within the upper and middle classes. These are just some examples of the growing research highlighting not only that we care enormously about our social pecking orders but the wider the variation in rank the worse of we are.
Is it an advantage to live in a light blue state? (GINI in graphic is GINI *100)
The GINI coefficient is a measure of wealth or income equality – a GINI of 1 means one person has all the wealth and everyone else has nothing – a GINI of 0 means everyone has the same wealth. In addition to having an interest in this type of research, I also happen to experiencing it in real time. I make less money now than I have in 20 years (actually I make no money and am drawing down savings and at this pace I estimate I'll go broke in September of 2016). But this would just be broke financially – I'm now surrounded by a social group that cares about non-pecuniary pursuits and accomplishments. Sure – none of us are starving or broke, but the day to day pressure of keeping up with the Joneses by getting on the financial/Veblen good treadmill are absent in my geographic circle. Jones lives in my neighborhood as well, but his signals are absent. (I remember sitting in a cubicle with 10 other guys at Salomon Brothers 11 hours a day cold calling billionaires. The neural correlation between 'rank' and 'money' was about 99% back then. The main lessons I learned then were a) the wealthy were no happier than the clerks processing their trades, b) status and wealth were cumulative but the dopaminergic reward pathways reset every morning and c) those who achieved power and status would not give it up without an intense fight.)
In a society with significant overall surpluses, people who actively lower their own economic and ecological footprint might get by very well, because their relative status – which is typically above average – allows them to make those reductions without reaching limits that compromise their well-being. These people have an opportunity to redefine what sort of 'capital' we compete for – as they allocate time and resources away from financial marker capital and towards social, human, built and natural assets. These people above the median in social status can make better choices for their own lives, though in the end the odds are that what we compete for will not change by volition but by circumstances.
And, on the flip side of the 'less-is-more' bandwagon, is the fact that biological organisms, including and especially humans, always consume surplus resources (Maximum Power Principle and all that.) Total equality in resource use is as much of a myth as a benevolent dictator telling us our optimal allocations. We will always seek status and have social hierarchies in human society. And higher ranking males and females, on average, will have higher respect, admiration and as a consequence, higher/more mating opportunities, consistent with the evolved raison d'etre of rank.
In my career as a trader and consultant, I often witnessed that the seemingly most unacceptable solution ended up being the best. Perhaps the fact that 80% of resources are being consumed by 20% of the people would be improved in aggregate if we went towards less equality and had 90% of resources consumed by 10% of people, as long as it killed the aspiration of others towards conspicuous consumption (well, it might not kill the aspiration, but perhaps the means). Although I understand the academic arguments of both sides and the historical importance of equality, I sometimes wonder if pursuing a blanket policy of more equity would be worse for the planet. Certainly it would if economic growth continues as an objective as many more people are joining the party very late in the game. In any case, unless we first understand and then integrate demand side constraints such as the 'rank income hypothesis' into our policies, culture and institutions, sustainability will be another receding horizon.
Finally, the biggest aspect of 'rank' that concerns me now is the large swaths of demographics that are in fear of their social rank vis-a-vis their fellow Americans (or Earthlings) changing due to new political rules, bailouts, regulations etc. I don't agree with what our government is doing right now either, but I wish people that respond to change like Tea-Partiers or health-care rioters, etc. would understand the broader backdrop of our running into exponential growth limitations will require across the board sacrifice and reduction of living standards in aggregate. Unfortunately, without this knowledge of ecological limits, all sacrifice and lower living standards, both within and between nations, are likely to be 'perceived' as relative rank drops for those affected. And we're already seeing hints of the likely responses.
Our government (and others) continue to at least attempt to level the playing field via what can best be described as stealth nationalization. Increasingly the government trough is making up a larger % of the feedlot, both on the wage side and on the debt side. At each new turn however, spreading the social equality safety net wider is taking another hefty chomp out of our currency and sovereign health. What I hadn't realized before but that is taking on increasing relevance, is that the coming debt deflation and currency reforms are likely to automatically lower the GINI, as significant paper wealth will eventually disappear. Instead of viewing currency reform and a reshuffling of claims as either inevitable and/or frightening, perhaps we can come up with a creative, not-too-disruptive plan where financial descent is paired with aspiration descent so that energy descent is more manageable.
I don't know but am open to suggestions.
Campfire Questions
1. How can we use our increasing understanding of status, resources, and the neuroscience of human behavior to influence/create a more benign future?
2. Competition with con-specifics is part of our heritage. But so is cooperation and empathy. What level of wealth disparity would be healthy and/or tolerable for future of US society? Might less equality be a good thing?
3. How might the debt/financial crisis be an opportunity towards making headway on issues of social equity, both within the United States, and between the United States and other, less well off countries?
4. Any good ideas on how to change our status/aspiration metric away from conspicuous consumption?(this has been asked before but is important enough to throw out to this lateral thinking crew, on occasion).
5. Can you think of creative ways to downsize your own aspirations by changing social groups?
Answer any/all you'd like to. I'll kick off the discussion by quoting from one of Herman Daly's guest posts on theoildrum, on this same topic.
Limit the range of inequality in income distribution—a minimum income and a maximum income. Without aggregate growth poverty reduction requires redistribution. Complete equality is unfair; unlimited inequality is unfair. Seek fair limits to the range of inequality. The civil service, the military, and the university manage with a range of inequality of a factor of 15 or 20. Corporate America has a range of 500 or more. Many industrial nations are below 25. Could we not limit the range to, say, 100, and see how it works? People who have reached the limit could either work for nothing at the margin if they enjoy their work, or devote their extra time to hobbies or public service. The demand left unmet by those at the top will be filled by those who are below the maximum. A sense of community necessary for democracy is hard to maintain across the vast income differences current in the US. Rich and poor separated by a factor of 500 become almost different species. The main justification for such differences has been that they stimulate growth, which will one day make everyone rich. This may have had superficial plausibility in an empty world, but in our full world it is a fairy tale.


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A LEIGH mum who underwent a hysterectomy after being diagnosed with cervical cancer is preparing to take a few knocks for the charity that helped her through her illness.
Laura Beaumont was diagnosed with cancer in October last year and was told that the only option was for her to have her womb removed.
The mum to four-year-old Rocky had the operation in November and now wants to use her story to highlight the importance of cervical screening during Cervical Cancer Awareness Week, which starts on Monday.
"I received a letter after a routine cervical screen saying I had abnormal cells," said the 32-year-old.
"I went for LLETZ treatment and they told me I would get the results three to four weeks later. When I got the phone call saying my results had come I knew it wasn't good news."
Laura, of Wintergreen Close, will take part in the Tough Mudder at Cholmondeley Castle in Chester on September 13, along with best friend Keli Morris, in aid of Jo's Trust.
"The charity was a major part of it for me. I used to go on the website every night to read other people's stories. It let me know that I wasn't alone," she said.
"I was never given any other options regarding my treatment.
"Even if I had I would have still gone through with it.
"I have a son and two stepsons and although I would have liked to have another child, I would rather be around to look after the ones I've got.
"Keli is bit of an adrenalin junky and I am sure we will end up with a few bumps and bruises but it is all for a good cause."


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cooran wrote:I dont think this is a ''touchy-feely universalist'' thing - but involves resting the mind temporarily on particular individuals or groups of beings.
What do you reckon?
Have a look; maybe this tangent can be pursued there, or anew with respect to "is it in the suttas" in terms of this sort of thing.


text:
Expand Your Mind, Heal Your Body, Fulfill Your Spirit
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Started by The Panacea Community in News and Community Information. Last reply by Nathan Crane Aug 2, 2014.
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Blog posts are a great way to share valuable information with the community while increasing your presence as an author, speaker, or expert in your industry.As a blog writer, you can be considered an expert in your field when you share practical how-to information based on a specific category, or by writing about specific news topics and how that can positively impact people's lives.Every week we will take the top 7 blog articles and send them out in our newsletter and social media sites, going…Continue
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Immediate ReleaseMarch 17, 2014 Moby, Little Dragon, Phantogram & Gramatik to Headline Lightning in a Bottle Festival 2014! The music lineup for the 9th annual Lightning in a Bottle Music and Arts Festival has been announced, featuring Moby, Little Dragon, Phantogram, Gramatik, Beats Antique, Amon Tobin, Baauer, Gold Panda, Simian Mobile Disco, Claude VonStroke and more! This internationally renowned transformative experience also includes the sounds of The Polish Ambassador, Damian…Continue
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Started by Nathan Crane in News and Community Information Feb 16, 2014.
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Peters Organic World is the leader, specializing in providing high nutrient density worm castings, compost, compost tea, natural organic soil building amendments and natural fertilizers for gardens, farms, landscapers, nurseries, grasses, and hydroponics. Our plant health care is truly different than most because of our focused approach to living soil which …Continue
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Leading Experts and Doctors Share Their Newest Discoveries About Cancer and How to Prevent, Heal, and Possibly Reverse its Debilitating EffectsIf you or a…Continue
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Panacea Publishing Inc., a division of The Panacea Community, is a one of a kind full scale Conscious Publishing Company.Panacea means, "the solution to all diseases, sickness, and ailments." Therefore in accordance with our name, we are dedicated to finding and sharing powerful solutions to help hundreds of millions of people reverse disease, enjoy health, and…Continue
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In the film Broadcast News, a neophyte reporter who is intensely happy, asks a veteran newsman what to do when your real life exceeds your dreams. The elder tells the fellow to just keep it to himself.The oddest effect of happiness is that other people are annoyed by it. Misery does love company, so a joyful person poses a threat to those steeped in sorrow. This is so for several reasons:First, people who perceive a reward for being lost, sick, alone, poor, or victimized have an investment in…Continue
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We have just completed the third class in the first month and tribe of our 13 month coaching program! Today, Cristina Smith, showed us how to connect with the Perfection of Our Higher Self.We put together a free sample replay of Cristina's call here so you can get a sense and feel of how powerful this coaching program truly is.DOWNLOAD AND LISTEN TO CRISTINA'S SAMPLE CALL HERE…Continue
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We have just completed the third class in the first month and tribe of our 13 month coaching program! Last week David Dibble, author and creator of New DreamWork, showed us how we can understand the deeper meaning of our dreams.We put together a free sample replay of David's call here so you can get a sense and feel of how powerful this coaching program truly is.DOWNLOAD AND LISTEN TO…Continue
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POMPANO BEACH, Fla. - Cool, friendly, smart, funny -- those were just some of the words Crystal Lakes Middles School students used to describe their friend and classmate Jerry Cunningham Friday morning as they prepared to walk in his honor.
"I came out here to support him because I'm good friends with him," said Aaron Corral. "I like him as a friend, a lot."
Each student donated $2 to be able to walk in honor of their classmate. For an additional $2, they received a special wristband with "Pray for Jerry" written on it.
"I thought it would be a nice way to show the family that we all care, and that we're collecting money for anything he needs," said Claudia Byrd.
Cunningham remains in an intensive care at Broward General, three weeks after he was run over while trying to board a county bus. The door closed on his arm, and the driver pulled away without realizing the teen was running alongside.
According to the family's attorney, the boy suffered a severe brain injury. Doctors don't know if he'll ever wake up.
"He's doing better but he has a very long road ahead of him," said school Principal Sabine Phillips
Phillips organized the walk and says the turnout speaks volumes not only about Jerry, but the school.
"Just the fact that one of our kids was injured, all of our kids come out in support -- that's the kind family we are here at Crystal Lake. That's why they're here," Phillips said.
Copyright 2013 by Local10.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Second 12" Lord of the Rings Release...
As announced HERE, Asmus Toys was taking on the denizens of The Lord of the Rings in 1:6th scale. Following the Morgul Lord, Asmus will be releasing orc commander Gothmog. Asmus Toys estimates this figure will be available this September priced at a SRP of $150. Pre-orders are currently being accepted at BigBadToyStore.com.
The Gothmog Sixth Scale Figure features:
. Authentic and detailed fully realized likeness of Gothmog from The Return of the King.
· Standard male body
· Approximately 30 cm tall
· Over 36 points of articulation
· Movie accurate full body armor
· Movie accurate super detail head sculpt plus implant hair
· One fist in armor
· One Orc hand
· One weapon holding hand in armor
· One Gondorian solider corpse
· One pair of black vest & red striping sleeves
· One pair of long striping pants
· One piece brown/grey textured fur
· One pair of black boots
· One black Orc belt
· One spike mace
· One Orc Sword
Other Accessories:
· One interractive cutom base
· One Asmus Toys figure stand Asmus Toys
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.


text:
I'm working a racing sim. There's no player controlled car in this application. All the cars will race automatically. I could implement AI cars following waypoints as a guide on the track. One specific requirement for my application is these cars must be finished the race in specific order (ranks, position, whatever). If I use pure AI and physics then the result may not be exactly as I want.
So, any ideas on this specific requirement?
Thanks in advance.
Check out:http://www.red3d.com/cwr/steer/
I used splines (ex: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cubic\_spline) in one racing game with a great success.
First I created some base splines around the track, then randomized slightly every knot, giving the AI racers a visually natural feeling of "intelligent" driving, because they never followed exactly the curves.
That was just quick to implement and quite rewarding.


text:
Sat 9 March 2013 Results
No meetings found
Racing Tips
Monday's racing preview
Chris Wilson says Soie D'Leau looks primed to finally get his nose in front this season when he lines up in the big race of the day at Leicester on Monday.
Ben Linfoot: Daily Nap
Ben Linfoot heads to Leicester for Monday's nap and he's backing one of Tom Queally's mounts to deliver the goods.
Football Tips
Premier League tips: Monday
David John is going for a low-scoring home win as Arsenal host an awkward West Brom side on Monday night in the Premier League.
Our best bets
Check out all of our available betting tips and previews of the forthcoming sporting action.


text:
grub2-mkconfig -o /boot/grub2/grub.cfg
vi /etc/bashrc
alias update-grub='grub2-mkconfig -o /boot/grub2/grub.cfg'
# Custom file written to update grub - kpt
grub2-mkconfig -o /boot/grub2/grub.cfg
sudo update-grub
alias upd-grb2="sudo grub2-mkconfig -o /boot/grub2/grub.cfg"
# /etc/bashrc
# System wide functions and aliases
# Environment stuff goes in /etc/profile
# It's NOT a good idea to change this file unless you know what you
# are doing. It's much better to create a custom.sh shell script in
# /etc/profile.d/ to make custom changes to your environment, as this
# will prevent the need for merging in future updates.
[glenn@b-satellite17 ~>$ pwd/home/glenn
[glenn@b-satellite17 ~>$ pwd/home/glenn
vi .basrc < --- Don't overlook the dot before the word bashrc
alias fuzzbomb='sudo grub2-mkconfig -o /boot/grub2/grub.cfg'
source ~/.bashrc
source ~/.bashrc
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Topic: rib metastases
anyone having same problem? My husband has this along where the drain was (after surgery) and it has now grown to a size of 10 by approximately 4 cm. Was diagnosed late (if we had not insisted on further investigations it might even have been later still), no treatment offered. Finally we could arrange conventional radiotherapy which brought pain relief, but only for a couple of months.
We contacted two cyberknife centres. One has just told me today they can't do it due to the size. Need to tell my husband the bad news now which makes me feel very sad.
We were offered chemotherapy but were also told that the effects of chemo on a bone met would be weak if at all. They are looking into options of cementoplasty now, but we have not yet a response.
Did anybody have the same problem? What treatment was offered? Was any of it successful in treating the pain? My husband is now on 60mg Morphine twice a day plus the normal painkillers (paracetamol and ibuprofen) which makes him extremely tired. But at the moment he's only got the choice between being either in agony or sleeping all day.


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Get an overview of this hotel3-star hotel with restaurant and outdoor pool
Popular property highlights
Situated in Bethania Station, this hotel is 0.8 mi (1.3 km) from SciWorks and within 6 mi (10 km) of Wake Forest University and Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Reynolda House Museum of American Art and Reynolda Gardens are also within 6 mi (10 km).
Hotel Features
A restaurant, an outdoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness center are available at this hotel. Free WiFi in public areas and free self parking are also provided. Additionally, a bar/lounge, a coffee shop/café, and a 24-hour business center are onsite.
Room Amenities
All 150 rooms provide conveniences like refrigerators and coffee makers, plus free WiFi and LED TVs with cable channels. Room service, premium bedding, and free weekday newspapers are among the other amenities available to guests.
Guest Highlights
- Comfortable rooms
- Helpful staff
- Clean, quiet guestrooms
- Comfy beds and nice bathrooms
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Winston Salem - University
Hotel Amenities
Hotel Amenities
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Winston Salem - University features an outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center. Dining options at the hotel include a restaurant and a coffee shop/café. A bar/lounge is on site where guests can unwind with a drink. Wireless Internet access is complimentary.
This 3-star property offers access to a 24-hour business center and meeting rooms. This business-friendly hotel also offers a terrace, barbecue grills, and a picnic area. Complimentary self parking is available on site.
- Free WiFi
- Free RV, bus, truck parking
- Number of buildings/towers - 1
- 24-hour front desk
- Number of floors - 6
- Bar/lounge
- Barbecue grill(s)
- Breakfast available (surcharge)
- Coffee shop or café
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- 24-hour fitness facilities
- Laundry facilities
- Meeting rooms 7
- Total number of rooms - 150
- Terrace
- Picnic area
- Luggage storage
- Restaurant
- 24-hour business center
- Free self parking
- Outdoor pool
- Outdoor seasonal pool
Family Friendly Amenities
- Family Hotel
- Outdoor pool
- Free Wi-Fi
- Laundry facilities
- Refrigerator
- Cribs/infant beds (complimentary)
Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi
Free self parking, Free RV, bus, truck parking
Room Amenities
- Free WiFi
- Premium TV channels
- Premium bedding
- Air conditioning
- In-room climate control (air conditioning)
- Free weekday newspaper
- Refrigerator
- Free toiletries
- In-room safe
- Desk
- Coffee/tea maker
- Free local calls
- Daily housekeeping
- Iron/ironing board
- Cable TV service
- Room service (limited hours)
- Connecting/adjoining rooms available
- Free cribs/infant beds
Where to Eat
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Winston Salem - University has a restaurant on site.
Room service (during limited hours) is available.
Nearby Things to Do
Recreational amenities at the hotel include an outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center.
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please note them at check-out when you book your room.
- Accessible bathroom
- Roll-in shower
- In-room accessibility
Hotel Policies
Minimum check-in age is 21
Check-in time ends at 2 AM
Check-in time starts at 3 PM
Check-out time is noon
Payment types
Children and extra beds
- Children are welcome.
- Kids stay free! Children 18 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding.
- Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
- Free cribs (infant beds)!
- Pets not allowed
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy.
Optional extras
- Breakfast fee: between USD 10.00 and USD 11.00 per person (approximately)
Hotel Name
- Holiday Inn Parkway Hotel Winston-Salem-Univ
- Holiday Inn Winston-Salem-Univ Parkway
- DoubleTree Hilton Hotel Winston Salem University
- DoubleTree Hilton Winston Salem University
- DoubleTree Hilton Hotel University
We should mention
Children 18 years old and younger stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding. The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation.


text:
MORE than £85,000 of winter aid relief has been distributed to refugees on the Syrian border by Blackburn-based charity Al-Imdaad Foundation UK.
The charity has already built the UK's first village inside Syria, and delivered more than one million kilos of flour to refugees in December.
Represtatives from the UK charity, as well as Blackburn mayor Coun Salim Mulla, visited the country in December to open the village, and were shocked to find that refugees were suffering under extremely cold conditions.
Many of the refugees, including children, were suffering from frostbite, as they did not even have socks and shoes to wear in sub-zero temperatures.
As a result, since arriving back in the UK, charity bosses launched an urgent winter warmth appeal, which asked people to donate £25 to provide people in Syria with hats, gloves, scarves, shoes, and blankets,.
The appeal, which has been running for just over a month, has so far had a phenomenal response.
International projects co-ordinator, Zubair Valimulla said: "The response has been fantastic from the general public and we would like to thank each and every person that took part in this brilliant project.
"Only with your support were we able to deliver 65,000 blankets and over 18,000 winter kits which includes hats, gloves, scarves and footwear".
The Al-Imdaad Foundation is a registered UK charity providing humanitarian aid relief with registered offices in Australia, Indonesia Jordan and head office in South Africa.
To view live updates on the distribution visit www.alim daad.co.uk.


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Signing on as executive director of America's longest running college all-star football game, the East-West Shrine Game®, wasn't a decision Harold Richardson took lightly. "The landscape of all-star games has changed dramatically over the past ten to fifteen years," says Richardson. "It's not like the old days when an all-star game only had to compete with a handful of college bowl games like the Orange, the Cotton, the Sugar and the Rose – the bowls we all remember. Last year there were nearly 40 post-season college games. People could watch college football for 35 straight days without getting off the couch. Not a lot of demand for an all-star game," says Richardson.
Times are tough, but you know what – so is football. Football is built around rising to the challenge, and football is built into Harold Richardson. When representatives from Shriners asked around the NFL for people who could rise to the challenge of growing the East-West Shrine Game, Richardson's name was on most everyone's short list. Having served as general manager of the Atlanta Falcons from 1998-2002, which included making it to the Super Bowl in 1999; serving 14 years as a coach and administrator for the New Orleans Saints and Denver Broncos, as well as 12 years as a college football coach, Richardson's football resume is anything but short. His Super Bowl rings are tributes to the years he spent playing, coaching and managing at all levels of game. In honor of brevity, let's just say Harold Richardson knows a little something about putting on a football game – and leave it at that.
As a man of football, the chance to run the East-West Shrine Game was appealing. Mention many of the greats who have played in the game – Farve, Brady, Staubach, Sayers, Dungy, Elway – and chances are Richardson has played, coached or worked with or against the majority of them. He knows the people, and he knows what it takes to play at that level. Still having been around that much football he had to ask himself, would it really be worth pulling up stakes after 15 good years in Atlanta and moving to Tampa Bay to run the game?
The game breaker for Richardson was the chance to build on the game's heritage of supporting Shriners Hospitals for Children®. Even with all of the greats who have played over the years he says, "It's always been about more than the game. It's about the chance to support what the Shriners make possible through their facilities. I get hung up on the fact that nearly a million kids lives have been dramatically changed by the care made possible by Shriners. Add to that the lives of all the people around them, and that's making a difference in a lot of lives. There are not many organizations stepping up with results like those," says Harold Richardson, executive director of the East-West Shrine Game – going on two years now.
"It never hurts to feel good about something you do," chuckles Richardson. He credits his wife Ramona for framing the opportunity best when she said, "How many times at the end of your career do you get a chance to do something you love – and it actually helps somebody?" That was two games ago. Games 86 and 87 to be exact; and the clock is already ticking on Game 88.
In sports the numbers matter, and the reports on this year's game show increased attendance, increased exposure, increased community support and a large enthusiastic family-oriented crowd that spontaneously erupted into the Wave. The coaches did a superb job of preparing their teams, resulting in a well played game that was exciting to the end. The players were appreciative of a well-coordinated chance to show their skills to some big name employers. Between 250 and 300 NFL scouts attended practices this year. Over 70 percent of the players in last year's game 86 made it onto NFL rosters. Time will tell how the 110 players who played this year will stack up to that. The scouts gave this year's experience high marks, Overall Richardson says, "This year's group was of a higher caliber than last. Our goal is to keep improving every year. That's one of the keys to growing the game."
In TV talk, Richardson said, "Tropicana Stadium's seating arrangement, combined with a good sized crowd, allowed NFL Network camera crews to show the game from all angles, without having to worry about a lot of empty seats. Empty seats kill a game on TV." Instead they were able to show another key to growing the game – a crowd full of young families having fun. "We priced the game so that people can afford to come. We need to attract the young people and establish the tradition in the community," explains Richardson.
Last, but hardly least, the game kept it interesting by waiting until the last two minutes for a winner to emerge. A great cause, families, fun and an exciting football game – that's just good product.
Ah, but it's just a game right? Tell that to the staff and volunteers behind the scenes who tie together all aspects of the game from contracting with the stadium and finding the right sponsors; to inviting, housing, feeding, and transporting 110 players and 20 coaches; moving personnel and equipment to and from practice and the game; hosting a banquet for 600 and giving everybody a chance to buy some swag. Lot's of to-dos on that list.
Even though it's on the task list, it's fair to say that coordinating the players' and coaches' visit to Shriners Hospitals for Children – Tampa is more of an opportunity than a task. In the end, the kids do all the heavy lifting and steal the show, while six foot four three hundred and twenty pound football players turn to mush – more than enough inspiration and motivation in the air for everybody. The consensus of those in attendance ran from "It was amazing" to "One of the best visits ever."
"We just have to keep building on the formula," says Richardson, who would like to see attendance up over 30,000 before he steps aside. "Growing a game like this is a grass roots effort. It takes time to get the community on board, but we're headed the right direction." After being played in five different cities in the previous eight years, Richardson couldn't be happier with hosting the game in what he hopes is its long term home at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida. "With Shriners International Headquarters and the hospital right here, Tampa Bay is a great home for the game. The community is really excited about getting behind us. All in all, we made some big strides this year and there are already some great ideas in the mix for next year's game," says Richardson.
There you have it. Thanks to a lot of planning and hard work by Richardson, his staff and a some tireless volunteers, America's longest running college all-star game – the East-West Shrine Game has new energy, a new home and a brighter future.
Just one last thing. If you are the executive director of America's longest running college all-star football game, the East-West Shrine Game, how many times at the end of your career do you get a chance to do something you love and it actually helps somebody? "Everyday I go to work!" says Harold Richardson.
You can learn more about East-West Shrine Game at www.shrinegame.com.


text:
Wood Rockin' Alarm Clock
No longer available
- Overview
Wake up to your favorite playlist. This wood-framed alarm clock is designed with two 2.5-inch speakers, a radio and a docking station that charges and plays most iPods®.
- 12" wide x 5" deep x 5" high
- Constructed from wood and plastic.
- Features AM/FM analog radio, alarm clock, iPod® speaker with battery charger and a 3.5mm line-in jack with cable.
- 42-inch (3.5-foot) power cord included.
- Plays music from your iPod®, iPod Touch®, iPhone 3/3s®, and iPhone 4/4s.
- Charges iPods.
- Does not charge iPhones.
- Dimensions + Care
- Overall: 12" wide x 5" deep x 5" high
- Speaker (2): 2.5" diameter; 4 ohms, 3 watts
- Power: 12V AC adaptor
- Adaptor Power Cord: 3.5' long
- Adaptor Plug: 2-prong
- Weight: 3.5 pounds
- Clock frame is MDF with polyurethane paint.
- Metal screws.
- ABS plastic.
- Line-in cord and FM antenna are PVC.
- Acrylic lens.
- Wipe clean with a soft, dry cloth.
- Shipping Info
This item will arrive in 3-5 business days. Please proceed to the Payment & Review page of Checkout for a precise delivery estimate.
- Final Sale
Final-sale items, identified by a price ending in $0.99, cannot be returned. Once placed, your order for any final sale items cannot be canceled.