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BP Comment Quick Links
|Strength of Schedule Report
January 30, 2014
The Lineup Card
Nine Moves that Teams Still Need to Make
1. Pittsburgh Pirates: Mid-rotation starter/Bring back A.J. Burnett
A.J. Burnett was the team's rock last year, eating up 191 innings with All-Star caliber pitching. But the 37-year-old Burnett, a free agent this offseason, has wavered between resigning with the Bucs and calling it quits altogether. Contract talks have gone silent of late, so there's no telling when this issue will get resolved. If Burnett does decide to retire, the Pirates' options are severely limited: Masahiro Tanaka is now off the market, and the best remaining arms—Ervin Santana and Ubaldo Jimenez—both cost a compensatory draft pick. (With the team's recent track record of developing talent, that pick figures to be a huge obstacle to any potential deal.)
Without Burnett or a veteran to replace him, the 3-5 spots in the Pirates rotation are filled with land mines. Wandy Rodriguez is capable when healthy, but after turning 35 last week and making just 12 starts in 2013, his durability is far from guaranteed. Edinson Volquez is alternatingly electric and out of control, with recent history indicating that the latter description is more apt. Charlie Morton and Jeff Locke are both back-end starters who will suddenly be asked to perform way above their means. Asking any of these guys to throw lots of meaningful innings is a dangerous proposition, especially in the NL Central.
At this point, Pittsburgh's interest in Santana and Jimenez is barely perceptible, if it even exists. There is some talent on the farm, but neither Jameson Taillon nor Tyler Glasnow is ready for a heavy workload on a playoff-bound team. Burnett, then, seems like the team's best hope, which means general manager Neal Huntington better pull out all the stops. May we suggest making #STFD the team slogan? —Nick Bacarella
2. New York Yankees: Right-handed-hitting second and/or third baseman/Trade for Trevor Plouffe
The Yankees will need to find a way to acquire a player that can hit left-handed pitching, preferably at second or third base—their only two positions without an everyday player. Of course, the team may not be looking to spend much more than they already have and the farm system isn't exactly filled with assets. So, without getting too ambitious in this search, one non-sexy name to consider is Minnesota Twins third baseman Trevor Plouffe, who has done well against southpaws and could be the platoon partner with Kelly Johnson at third base. Plouffe's availability may depend on Minnesota's belief in top prospect Miguel Sano's ability to stick at third base, though. —Ronit Shah
3. Cleveland Indians: Veteran third baseman and a good luck charm
And while we're already not asking for much, let's find a better good luck charm other than the "rally chicken." Don't ask Nick Swisher for ideas either, because the answer will be sideburns, and the entire team will have sideburns, and you will only have yourself to blame. —Matt Sussman
4. Chicago Cubs: Free-agent starting pitcher/Maybe bring back Paul Maholm
Matt Garza's four-year, $50 million deal with the Brewers is a good sign for teams in need of starting pitching, including the Cubs. The remaining "Big Two"—Ubaldo Jimenez and Ervin Santana—don't fit the Cubs' plan, but the team's public image is reeling after striking out on Tanaka. If the price were right, would Theo strike? It's possible, but Epstein isn't going to placate unhappy fans by making a move just to make a move. The Cubs likeliest action is signing a pitcher below the level of Jimenez and Santana. Bronson Arroyo is certainly attractive enough; he brings both durability and leadership, but the soon-to-be 37-year-old is reportedly looking for a three-year deal and the Cubs wouldn't go there, would they? That leaves the "bargain binners," Jason Hammel and Paul Maholm. Hammel regressed in a big way in 2013, giving up 22 home runs in 23 starts in Baltimore. And while bringing back Maholm might be viewed as the ultimate slap-in-the-face to fans hoping for something big, the lefty has pitched effectively in Chicago before. Of course, the urgency to sign a free-agent starter could fall to the back burner should Samardzija's name ever re-surface in trade talks. Right now, the team simply needs a fifth starter capable of giving them innings—Clark the Cub would do it, but MLB's pants' policy forbids it. —Alex Kantecki
5. Baltimore Orioles: Sign A.J. Burnett
6. Toronto Blue Jays: Add a starting pitcher/Maybe A.J. Burnett?
In other words, the Blue Jays need a starter. Alex Anthopoulos knows it, you know it, and the agents for Ubaldo Jimenez and Ervin Santana know it. Yet the Jays have not signed either of those free agents, coming as they do with compensation-pick strings attached. Someone who can bring some velocity would be nice, given the soft-serve ways of Buehrle and Dickey; maybe a free agent veteran just looking for a comfortable place with a short-term deal. Hey, what about A.J. Burnett? He knows the territory, he's 37, he can still throw 93 miles an hour. Plus, he would give the Jays a rotation with an R.A., an A.J. and a J.A. O.K.? —Adam Sobsey
7. Atlanta Braves: Sign Wilson Betemit to compete for a bench job
Doumit, whom the Braves acquired from the Twins earlier this offseason, hit better from the right side in 2013, though his career splits are about even. Pena thumped right-handed pitching in 2013, but his .308 True Average was compiled over 87 plate appearances—hardly a sample on which general manager Frank Wren could confidently rest his case.
That's where Betemit, who broke into the majors with the Braves in 2004, before he was traded to the Dodgers in July 2006, comes in. A fellow switch-hitter, Betemit owns a .289 career TAv when facing right-handers, and he likely won't cost much coming off of a season largely lost to a PCL sprain in his right knee. The 32-year-old's skills are limited—he lacks the versatility that Pastronicky and Pena bring, and offers no defensive value at any position—but the Braves could use another candidate to bop righties off the bench. If Doumit's 2013 splits persist or Pena comes back down to earth, they would risk being one Jason Heyward injury away from a badly skewed lineup. Adding Betemit to compete with Pastornicky (who is also coming back from a knee inury) and prospects Todd Cunningham and Joey Terdoslavich would mitigate that gamble. —Daniel Rathman
8. Kansas City Royals: Sign Bronson Arroyo
9. New York Mets: Sign Stephen Drew
23 comments have been left for this article.
BP Comment Quick Links
Mike G -- signing Drew could make a difference. Importantly it would remove Ruben Tejada from the lineup. In my mind, Tejada is Rey Ordonez without the fielding chops. And signing Drew would also continue to send a signal from ownership that they're willing to invest.
Jan 30, 2014 05:15 AM
"Rey Ordonez without the fielding chops". Um... what kind of comp is that?
Jan 30, 2014 05:24 AM
"Atlanta Braves: Sign Wilson Betemit to compete for a bench job." Who wouldn't like to have that as their most glaring need?
Jan 30, 2014 06:22 AM
Why didn't the Cubs re-sign Scott Baker, who has been a better pitcher than Maholm for much of his career? That low-risk minor league deal would have made sense for the Cubs (or any team) to do, but NL teams seemed to discount him as his (reported) offers only came from the AL. I'm stunned that he did not attract more attention, and I think the Mariners got an absolute steal.
Jan 30, 2014 06:23 AM
I wouldn't mind a Wilson Betemit to the Pirates move if he could play 1b.
Jan 30, 2014 06:49 AM
While I think the Pirates do need to resign Burnett, I wondered why Cole wasn't mentioned as their about-to-be ace.
Jan 30, 2014 08:14 AM
I don't think everybody can sign A.J. Burnett
Jan 30, 2014 08:16 AM
I really dislike the idea of the 37 year old soft tossing righthander (Arroyo) in the AL. The Royals already have Vargas lined up as the lamb to the slaughter.
Jan 30, 2014 09:32 AM
To be fair to Arroyo, his thing since 2004 has been "throwing 200 average-ish innings in HR-friendly home parks". I'm not sure that the NL->AL gap is scarier than the Great American Ball Park effect. He could do well in a home park that suppressed his high HR/9, especially in front of a good OF defense (e.g., Gordon/Cain/Lough). Great control, and his K/9 isn't awful for a starter. He'd be better than the #4 for most AL teams.
Jan 30, 2014 10:25 AM
John Carter
It was reported in the Toronto Star by Richard Griffen that Stephen Drew has OKed the possibility of playing second base. That would be a nice upgrade over Ryan Goins, yes?
Jan 30, 2014 10:04 AM
I have a thought about two teams that seem like a natural for a trade: the New York Yankees and the Chicago White Sox. The Yankees need a right handed platoon player who can play second and third base? The Sox have Jeff Keppinger. The White Sox need to bolster their catching? The Yankees have five catchers on their 40 man roster.
Jan 30, 2014 12:13 PM
After last year Keppinger has no trade value except negative value.
Jan 30, 2014 13:48 PM
Yeah, but just how much value do the aforementioned Yankees catchers really have?
Jan 30, 2014 17:55 PM
Jeff Keppinger had injury problems at the beginning of 2013 that affected his play. But in his last two months of play, he hit fairly well (.312/.356/.452 in August and September 2013). In light of Keppinger's lifetime average against lefties, his slump at the beginning of 2013 may well have been the exception and not the rule.
Jan 31, 2014 09:16 AM
Alberto Callaspo works as the 2B/3B platoon the Yankees need.
Jan 30, 2014 21:13 PM
dREaDS Fan
Notably missing is an idea for the Reds, who as a team on the bubble of contention, are much more deserving of suggested "moves they need to make" than are teams with little chance of contention in '14 (e.g. Cubs, Mets).
Jan 31, 2014 02:26 AM
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The University of Colorado at Boulder will hold its second annual disability cultural forum from noon to 9 p.m. on April 2 in the University Memorial Centers Glenn Miller Ballroom on campus.
The forum, which is free and open to the public, will bring together poets, writers, activists and artists to celebrate and raise awareness of disability culture.
People with disabilities share common experiences related to disability and a common history of being overlooked by society, said Mark Miller, a work-study student in the Office of Disability Services and one of the organizers of the forum. The cultural movement promotes a sense of pride, belonging and renewed strength for the expression of shared experiences, truths and values.
Steven E. Brown, founder of the Institute on Disability Culture, will speak at 1 p.m. A writer and poet, Browns publications include Independent Living: Theory and Practice, and Pain, Plain -- and Fancy Rappings: Poetry from the Disability Culture.
Robin Stephens, a community organizer and a recognized leader in the disability rights movement, will speak at 2 p.m. She coordinates a national advocacy effort called, Not Dead Yet, which speaks out against physician-assisted suicide.
Laura Hershey, a writer, poet, activist and consultant, will speak at 3:30 p.m. Hershey recently served as principle research associate for a comprehensive study of the Denver metro areas disability community.
Writer-producer Billy Golfus will speak at 7 p.m. He wrote, co-directed and co-produced When Billy Broke his Head . . . and Other Tales of Wonder, which was broadcast on PBS and in nine other countries.
Artists participating in the exhibit include Gretchen Schaper, Greg Massey, Gerry Leary, George Rivera, the Carmel Art Collective, Stanley Bell, Lenny Vitale, Mark Miller and Alonzo Clemons.

subset: commoncrawl


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34 35th St., Unit 26, Brooklyn, NY, 11232
My Mondrian: Composition C (No.III) with Red, Yellow and Blue, 2009
My Mondrian: Composition C (No.III) with Red, Yellow and Blue, 2009
Rubber and loctite on wood
22 x 22 in / 55 x 55 cm
The original Mondrian composition is recreated by the pigments titles Mondrian used in his painting (according to the restoration department at MoMA). The pigments cadmium red, cadmium yellow, cobalt blue, ultramarine, zinc white, lead white and bone black were translated and transliterated into four languages: English, Arabic, Yiddish and Hebrew, out of white rubber. They were cemented together in mass to recreate the original compositions. These works draw attention to the physicality of the spiritual pursuit as pigments come through networks of trade and science and move in the multilingual landscape. The application is expressive and loose like and arial topography of crops, and open fields.
People: Yael Kanarek
Research: Middle East
Tags: abstraction, arabic, english, hebrew, languages, linguistics, mondrian, rubber, textworks, yiddish
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4 Rare Earth Elements That Will Only Get More Important
Location: Kuwait
Gallons: 240 to 336 million
How It Happened:
As Iraqi forces retreated from Kuwait during the first Gulf War, they opened the valves of oil wells and pipelines in a bid to slow the onslaught of American troops. The result was the largest oil spill history has seen. Some 240 million gallons of crude oil flowed into the Persian Gulf. The resulting oil slick spanned an area just larger than the size of the island of Hawaii.
The Cleanup:
Coalition forces managed to seal off some of the open pipelines using smart bombs, but most recovery efforts had to wait until after the war. At that point 25 miles of booms (orange ropelike products that contain the oil that is floating on top of the water) and 21 skimmers (machines that separate oil from water) were deployed in the gulf, mostly to protect the water intakes of desalinization, industry and power plants. Together with vacuum trucks, about 58.8 million gallons of oil was recovered from the gulf.
The largest oil spill the world has seen exacted little permanent damage on coral ecosystems and local fisheries, according to a report by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission at Unesco. The study concluded that about half the oil evaporated, one-eighth of it was recovered and another quarter washed ashore, mostly in Saudi Arabia.
Location: Bay of Campeche, Mexico
Gallons: 140 million
How It Happened:
In June 1979, an oil well in the Bay of Campeche collapsed after a pressure buildup sparked an accidental explosion. Over the next 10 months about 140 million gallons of crude spouted into the Gulf of Mexico from the damaged oil well.
The Cleanup:
In order to slow down the flow of oil from the damaged well, mud and later steel, iron and lead balls were dropped down its shaft. According to PEMEX (Mexican Petroleum), half the oil burned when it reached the surface and a third evaporated. PEMEX also hired a company to spray dispersants over 1100 square miles of oil slick. Dispersants effectively act like dish soap, breaking up oil so that more of it can mix into the water. That way, they can reduce the effect of the oil slick on shorelines. On the Texas side of the gulf, skimmers and boomers were placed in the water to protect the bays and lagoons of the Barrier Islands.
Top 5 Most Damaging Invasive Species in the U.S.


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I think this qualifies, but if anyone thinks this isn't a big deal, I want to hear it.
I am a Brighhouse customer and have been for 3 years, have cable and internet.
Ok, so last Sunday all of a sudden my cable box starts acting up and after unplugging it and re-plugging I decide I better call, so I call and the guy tries to re-set, after about 20 minutes he says we need to send someone out. He looks at the schedule and says Saturday is the earliest someone can be out. I said Saturday really 6 days from now? OK, so we set a time for between 2-4.
I re-arrange my Saturday schedule to be home from 2-4, I wait, I wait and then when 4 rolls around I decide to call, after being on hold for 90 minutes. The guy says I am the last one on the list for today. He puts me on hold and supposedly calls the technician, comes back and tell me he will be there, almost done with last appt. I ask, is there a specific time at which he won't come, like it is is after 7 or 8. No the guy assures me he will be there.
So I change my early evening plans on Saturday night. At 7 I say he isn't coming, at 8 I know he isn't coming. Well he didn't show up, no phone call, no nothing. I have not heard from Brightouse at all yesterday or yet today.
OK, here is where I want your opinion. Ideally what I want is to get - is the most free stuff I can. I have other cable options or could go with U-Verse......but I would rather just stay with Brighthouse, but I want free stuff.
My plan is to call later today ask to speak with a supervisor, throw a big fuss, threaten to leave Brighthose or I'll stay for $120.00 off my current bill plus free NBA League Pass. I wonder if they would have less freedom to give NBA League pass away and maybe I should ask for more than $120.00 credit.
Anyone have any suggestions? What parts of my story should I play up, what stuff does a supervisor have more freedom to offer for free?


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HOMESTEAD, Fla. - A $10 million transformer weighing more than half a million pounds has arrived at the Turkey Point Nuclear Power Plant as part of the plant's upgrades.
The "extra high voltage" transformer built by Siemens Energy travelled 7,200 miles from Europe to South Florida. The transformer is actually a spare to be used if one of the plant's two existing transformers failed.
The plant's $1 billion makeover is scheduled to finish in 2013. Nearly 6,000 pipes, valves, generators, fans, turbines and other components are being replaced. When the upgrade is finished, Turkey Point's two nuclear units will be able to power about 270,000 more homes.
Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Luxe Lox Sandwich:
1 egg
1 tsp olive oil
Black pepper, to taste
1 whole-wheat English muffin (My tip: If you want to make an open-faced version with the same number of calories, you can use half of a whole wheat bagel, like I did)
1 tbsp light cream cheese (My tip: Try the new Laughing Cow Smooth Sensations Light Cream Cheese Spread. One wedge is the perfect amount, so you don't have to measure it out)
2 slices tomato
1 oz smoked wild salmon (My tip: Save leftover smoked salmon to make an easy appetizer or snack by topping sliced cucumber rounds with a smear of light cream cheese and a bite of smoked salmon)
1 thin slice red onion
In a small pan, fry egg in olive oil; season with black pepper. Make a sandwich: top whole-wheat English muffin with light cream cheese, sliced tomato, fried egg, smoked wild salmon, and sliced red onion. Makes one serving.
Nutrition facts per serving: 322 calories, 15 g fat (4 g saturated), 30 g carbs, 6 g fiber, 19 g protein
Comments? Requests? Tweet me @sarahjaneRD or @SELFmagazine or find me on SELF'S Facebook Page!
Related Links:
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KEYWORDS: Breakfast,Drop 10,Eat Like Me,Recipe


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How much is on-campus housing?
For 2017-18, housing is $3,300 a semester; $6,600 for the academic year. If a student elects to attend Maymester, it is an additional $400. If a student stays on-campus for the entire summer, including Maymester, the cost is $1,200.
Is there a meal plan?
Watkins does not offer a meal plan, but does have a café available during class times. Restaurants are also located conveniently within walking distance of Watkins' campus. Also, our on-campus apartments have a full kitchen.
Is health insurance available?
Watkins can provide contact information for students seeking health insurance coverage. Watkins has information from The Sentry Student Security Plan. Students should contact the Director of Student Life for a brochure or for additional information. Email firstname.lastname@example.com.
Is professional counseling available?
The Student Assistance Program is a professional counseling service offered through Family and Children's services designed to help students identify problems and seek solutions. The SAP is a pre-paid service to Watkins students and their immediate families-providing three face-to-face sessions at no cost.
What if I have a disability?
Students who have been diagnosed may be entitled to reasonable accommodations by the instructor. Students should contact the Office of Student Life to make their disability known and develop a plan of action for the semester.
How many students are currently enrolled?
Approximately 400 students attend the college each semester
How many students apply… how many are accepted… how many start each year?
Each year we receive about 350 applications. Of those, about 60% are accepted and about 80% of those enroll.
What measures have been taken to ensure campus safety?
Every effort is made to keep our campus safe and secure. We provide 24 hour security, both with security personnel and an extensive camera system through the main academic building and outside of student housing. We are happy to say that, to date, the surrounding community has a very low crime rate and even minor incidences on campus extremely rare. In compliance with the Clery Act, Watkins posts its Campus Crime and Security Report each year on our website at www.watkins.edu/mywatkins.
How hard is it to change majors?
If you choose to change majors after enrolling, you can do so by applying internally to the new program (forms available through the Registrar's Office), presenting your portfolio to the faculty of that program and receiving permission from the program's chair.
Will credits earned at a community college or another school transfer to Watkins?
We accept credits earned at previous institutions. However, each BFA program has very specific curriculum and all of your previous credits may not apply to that new program. You will receive an accounting of the number of credits accepted and your advisor will tell you where you stand in the program.
Do you offer dual-enrollment for high school students?
We offer dual enrollment for high school seniors in good standing into several foundation classes, general education entry level classes and art history. Duel-enrollment students enter as special-status credit students. For more information on how to apply, contact the Admissions Office.
Do I have to be enrolled full-time?
Students can enroll part-time or full-time. To finish the degree programs within four years requires that student take 30 credit hours a year, however some students, because of life or work commitments, do attend part-time and take longer to finish.
Are there job opportunities on campus?
Institutional and federal work study opportunities are available through many departments at Watkins. Apply through the office of Financial Aid.
Where do your students come from?
For the 2013-14 academic year, our students are from 25 different states and five foreign countries
What is the male/female student ratio?
Our current male/female student ratio is 46/54.
What is the student/teacher ratio?
Our student/teacher ratio in studio classes is 10:1 and 17:1 in liberal arts classes.
How many students are enrolled in each major?
For the 2013-12 academic year, 28% in Film, 16% in Fine Art; 20% in Graphic Design; 7% in Interior Design 13% in Photography; 8% in Art (BA).
What is the age of your student body?
In 2013-14, approximately 78% of our student body were 24 and younger; 17% were between 25-40; 5% are 41 and older. Watkins makes no distinction in its employment, contracting, or admissions policies or procedures, including the awarding of scholarships or other forms of financial assistance, on the basis of age, sex, religion, race, color, sexual orientation, national origin or disability.
Is country music all Nashville has to offer?
Located along the Cumberland River, Nashville is a crossroads of American culture, and easily the fastest-growing part of the Upper South and the territory between Atlanta and Texas. Contrary to what many believe, Nashville offers its residents and visitors more than just a country music scene. Our city also has a thriving art scene that is very welcoming to new ideas and points of view. Recently, BusinessWeek.com ranked Nashville as #7 on its list of the "10 Best Places for Artists in America." This top 10 list includes Los Angeles (as #1), New York, and San Francisco.
Do your graduates find jobs?
Our Career Services Office assists students with career advice, internships, and student work experience. It is their goal to help guide students to pursue their professional ambitions on their own terms by providing resume workshops, grant writing training, and guest speakers who can help answer questions about working as a professional artist. Our extensive internship programs in all areas has helped many of our graduates leave the college with both work experience and job offers. For more information about the Career Services Office, click "here."
Where do Watkins students live?
About a quarter of the student body live in on-campus housing. Many others share houses and apartments close by or live at home.
Where do I get my books and supplies?
Although Watkins does not have an on-campus store we do have relationships with local bookstores and art supplies stores which makes shopping for class needs very convenient. At the beginning of the semester, students can place book orders on-line with e-campus, an on-line bookstore, and the books are delivered to the college for pick-up. If you choose to do so, you can sell most books back to e-campus at the end of each semester. They even offer some books for rent. Some students choose to order their books through sites such as Amazon.


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>General Running>books for running?
"I've been following Eddy's improvement over the last two years on this site, and it's been pretty dang solid. Sure the weekly mileage has been up and down, but over the long haul he's getting out the door and has turned himself into quite a runner. He's only now just figuring out his potential. Consistency in running is measured in years, not weeks. And over the last couple of years, Eddy's made great strides" Jeff 14 Jan 2009
CPT Curmudgeon
Now that was a bath...
Now I know that in order to improve my running times I am the only one that can do that, but I have been contemplating getting a book, with good training plans in, so I can have something concrete to stick to. Please share with me your recommendations, and perhaps a little info as to how it has helped you. Much appreciated.
I would be careful with Lydiard. The training programs he outlines in his books are what he would called optimal schedules. I had the oppurtunity to speak with him once and he always said that if your body needs rest then take it, don't worry about following the schedule to a tee.
Well now I am an honorary Kiwi, I have an inherited right to believe that Lydiard is actually God so forgive me for my sins. Seriously, he is such an icon here!
'Running with Lydiard' has a whole heap of schedules in the back - but they are all 7 day week schedules and not for the faint hearted.
Derek - In my opinion that book is the best one. It contains all the same information as in his other books but is written later so has been honed down and refined. Enjoy it!
Plus it has a very nice picture on the front of a woman in a Papakura running vest. Papakura is just down the road from my home town Papatoetoe. Couldn't ask for more than that from a book.


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My name is Murkve, and I am a new seeker living just north of Minneapolis.
I've always known the basics of Buddhism, and have always been drawn to it, but lately I've begun to appreciate the Dhamma at a much deeper level. This may be because I have witnessed its myriad applications and wisdom in my chosen field (Education), or it may be because I find it's philosophy beautiful, self-consistent, and applicable - much like Mathematics. More than likely it is a combination of both, though I truly cannot say for sure what sparked my interest this time.
Here's what I do know:
- I like the Buddhist emphasis on impermanence and change (Anicca). As a Calculus teacher, I greatly admire how the Dhamma addresses the never-ending change and mutability of Nature. For this reason, I can see many connections between the Dhamma and Calculus - as both attempt to address and understand impermanence.
- I am pleased with how the Dhamma answers the age-old philosophical problem of the Identity of Theseus' boat versus its reconstruction. () I have been grappling with that question for years. It may be my western, binary mind, but it never occurred to me to consider that there was no 'Boat' to begin with. I understand this as 'Anatta'.
- I enjoy the focus of morality being on 'Wholesome' and 'Unwholesome' acts, rather than on 'Good' or 'Evil'. It comes across as more goal oriented.
Over the last 2 months I've been reading quite a few Buddhist books, Suttas, and other literature such as "In the Buddha's Words" by Bhikkhu Boddhi, "What Makes You Not a Buddhist" by Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse, the "Dhammapada", and "Being Dharma" by Ajahn Chah. I like to read the Suttas slowly, and reflectively. I'm inexperienced on Meditation yet, but I like to think that the focus and mindfulness it cultivates is not unlike that cultivated whilst doing Mathematics.
I'd like to take my practice further - with a community, and I've located 3 near enough to my home to make attendance regular. The first two are foremost in my mind:
Minnesota Buddhist Vihara - This is a Sri Lankan Sangha led by the Venerable Witiyala Seewalie Nayaka Thera. I am optimistic about this Sangha as it seems to incorporate Theravada ethnic traditional services while still being accessible to people from without the culture. From what I have read many services are offered in both Pali and English.
Common Ground Meditation Center - This is a thoroughly western Buddhist center. I can appreciate that, and I know that the culture here would likely be easy to 'fit in' with. At the same time, I'm not sure if I'm fully OK with that concept. I like the myriad support options that they offer, but it almost seems run like a Martial Arts Dojo - with differing classes every day.
Wat Anoka Dhammaram - This is my third choice. It seems to be completely ethnic Buddhist - which is fine. However, from pictures and literature on the site, the services look to be completely in Lao. This makes it nigh inaccessible to me, which is a shame as it looks like a nice community, and in a great location.
I'm asking you all this as I'd dearly like your input on this, as practicing and experienced Buddhists. I'm not very familiar yet with various Buddhist Communities in the US. I've mainly been looking into Theravada Buddhism as my first experience, as it is more in line with my modes of practice and thinking, but I am not opposed to exploring other paths.
So, thank you for reading and:
Any thoughts?


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from the Detroit Free Press:
Rip on Reggie: I love him to death
Miller's game serves as model to Hamilton
Richard Hamilton can't sidle up to Reggie Miller tonight, tap him on the shoulder and ask for advice. There are, after all, certain unwritten rules opponents have to obey, no matter how great the admiration. France, for example, would never approach Germany during wartime and ask, how do you do it?
But the truth is, Miller is one of Hamilton's favorite players. Hamilton sees so much of himself in the rangy Pacers guard. One day this summer, he hopes to ask Miller all the questions he has never dared ask during games. The two will match up tonight at the Palace when the Pistons and Pacers begin their best-of-seven second-round series.
"I love him," Hamilton said Sunday. "He's been helping me out for so long, just by me watching him and observing everything he does. I love him to death. He's been so much help to me as far as how the game is supposed to be played -- it makes my job easier, definitely, on the offensive end."
Hamilton won't have many more opportunities to watch and learn. Miller turns 40 in August, and earlier this year announced this will be his last NBA season. There are many who would love to see him continue; several of them are Pistons.
"He doesn't look old to me," Pistons coach Larry Brown said. "I hate to see him leave. I don't see slippage at all. He's done so much for our game."
Brown coached Miller when he was with the Pacers in 1993-1997.
"He's an underrated defender, he's as good a shooter as we've ever had in our league, he's as smart a player as you'll ever see at that position, and he's an unbelievable competitor, and that's never changed," Brown said. "I admire how he approaches the game, how competitive he is, what a great teammate he is. You never want to see kids like that leave."
Miller's value to the Pacers was never more evident this season than the stretch between March 4-April 15, when the team was without starters Jermaine O'Neal and Jamaal Tinsley. During that period Miller averaged 20 points, 45 percent shooting and 32 minutes -- and the team went 15-7.
"That was what kept us afloat in the playoff picture," Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said. "That period from March to April, where he really stepped up his game to All-Star-caliber level, allowed us to have the opportunity to win 44 games and get the sixth seed."
If the Pacers lose this series, Miller will retire without an NBA championship. But that hardly diminishes the impact he has had.
"Reggie is a Hall of Famer," Pistons guard Lindsey Hunter said. "You just take your hat off to him and what he's done in this league and for that organization."
Miller, who has played his entire 18-season career for Indiana, has also done quite a bit for Hamilton. Both share the same slender body type -- Miller is 6-feet-7 and 195 pounds; Hamilton, 6-7 and 193. Both are fanatical about their fitness routines.
Hamilton has watched how Miller eludes defenders and how he releases his shot with great success.
Some time this summer, Hamilton plans to approach Miller and tap his vast knowledge.
"I definitely want to talk to him more and see what he does and things like that," Hamilton said. "I try to talk during the games, but it's hard to ask somebody for advice from the opposite team, because you know, if somebody asks me, I don't know if I want to give it to them if I know I'm going to go against them in the playoffs."


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Salma Allam Dance Theater Presents THINGS MY MOTHER TAUGHT ME at Brooklyn Music School Tonight
Talented young dancer/choreographer/writer Salma Allam will present her dance/theater piece "Things My Mother Taught Me: a daughter's journey," - a drama in content, a comedy in delivery! Choreography and text are by Salma Allam, and movement and music are inspired by her Egyptian heritage. A second Friday performance is set for tonight, December 21 at 8 PM at the Brooklyn Music School Playhouse, 126 St. Felix Street.
This is the story of the fated journey of a daughter guided, sometimes in the right direction, sometimes in the wrong direction ("I will navigate my own path"), by a mother whose teachings are influenced by principles both ancient and contemporary. Both mother and daughter travel on their parallel paths, watched over by their very overworked guardian angels. With a wisdom and honesty far beyond her years, Salma draws on her life experience to reveal a personal narrative thru dance and text.
The cast features Salma Allam, Elly Mandarakas, Rachel Monahan, Cathy Richards, Penelope Thomas, Therese Whelan, Androniki Prokopiou and Helen Maldonado. Choreography and script: Salma Allam.
Salma Allam is a dancer, actor, choreographer and writer. In addition to her dance work in films and TV shows, she toured with Don Omar through the Americas and has appeared with Germaul Barnes Viewsic Expressions. She received her two-year certificate program at the Merce Cunningham Studio and is currently a dance teacher at the Brooklyn Music School.:
Brooklyn Music School Playhouse, 126 St. Felix Street
Tickets: $20 at the door; $13 in advance @ www.brooklynmusicschool.org
(50% of the proceeds go to Brooklyn Music School)
Reservations: 646.592.0673 or www.brooklynmusicschool.org


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Veterinarian Reviewed on June 14, 2012 by Paulina Nelega, RH
Posted in Uncategorized
Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana)
Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana) is also known as Sweetleaf or Sugar Leaf. It is native to both North and South America. It is a flowering plant that has rather small and smooth elongated leaves and clusters of small white flowers.
The Stevia is very well known to be a sugar substitute because of its high stevinol glycoside content. The Stevia plant is also known to be 300 times sweeter than sugar and it has been in demand lately because of its low calorie and low carbohydrate properties.
Stevia has no effect whatsoever in increasing blood glucose levels making it an ideal sugar substitute for people that have low carbohydrates and low sugar diets.
The Stevia plant is grown in Paraguay, Brazil and in Asia. There are also commercial growers of Stevia throughout North America.
History and Origin
The Stevia has been used in Central America as an herbal medication as well as a food sweetener. Stevia has been gaining worldwide attention as a sugar substitute. Many countries realized the importance and effects of this plant in the sugar industry and have issued many studies for the safety and use of the Stevia.
The FDA has clearly stated that Stevia can certainly be used as a sugar substitute in the US. The Stevia has many other therapeutic properties that can benefit many metabolic processes of the body and with absolutely no effect in blood sugar levels at all.
Ancient Uses
The Paraguay and Bolivia native tribe called the Guarani were the first people to use and cultivate Stevia and called it "sweet herb". It was used as a sweetener in tea and as a treatment for gastrointestinal problems such as heartburns and stomach upset. No side effects were noted in the use of Stevia, making it the ideal food sweetener.
Modern Uses
The Stevia plant has been well regarded as an alternative to sugar and no negative effects to blood sugar levels have been noted. The Stevia also contains a wide array of nutritional value that can contribute to overall body health.
The Stevia is used as an artificial sweetener in many commercial products such as carbonated drinks and other commercially prepared foods. The Stevia plant has been a common ingredient in artificial sweeteners to totally replace the use of sugar in a sugar free or low carbohydrate diet. Stevia will not cause any harm on teeth and gums. It has absolutely no calories and can also be used for baking and cooking. You can even prepare Stevia plants at home for extraction process to get the sweetening effect it provides on dishes.
Side Effects
There are no known negative side effects in the use of Stevia. Although it can totally replace sugar in the diet for diabetics and for people who are on a controlled diet, consult your doctor if you have a preexisting illness since Stevia might cause adverse effects if it is combined with your current medication.
If you are a diabetic, it is best to control your illness with a planned diet and a controlled lifestyle to manage your blood sugar levels completely.
Our Expert
Paulina Nelega, RH, has been in private practice as a Clinical Herbalist for over 15 years. She has developed and taught courses in herbal medicine, and her articles on health have appeared in numerous publications. She is very passionate about the healing power of nature. Ask Dr. Jan


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Halloween PartyLogic Grid puzzles come with a handy interactive grid that will help you solve the puzzle based on the given clues.
Happy Hauntings costume store threw their annual Halloween party, complete with food, dancing, and a little friendly competition. The company arranged 5 competitions (bobbing for apples, ring toss, scavenger hunt, pumpkin carving, and a scariest costume contest), with 5 different prizes (movie premier tickets, theater tickets, 4 passes to a local amusement park, and 2 gift certificates to a local restaurant). Each competition was won by a different employee, wearing a different costume purchased from the Happy Hauntings store. Can you determine the full name of each employee, what costume they wore, what contest they won, and which prize they received?
1) Belinda did not bob for apples, but she did win a gift certificate, which she shared with the man who won the tickets to the theater.
2) The 5 employees were: Amy, Mr. Brown, the one who dressed as a bat, the one who won the theater tickets, and the woman who won the pumpkin carving contest (who did not win movie tickets).
3) Robert, John, and Mary have the same last initial.
4) The women's costumes were: the one worn by Ms. Smith, the one worn by the woman who won the ring toss, and the skeleton.
5) During dinner, John sat at the same table as Frankenstein, the skeleton, and the woman who won the apple bobbing contest (who was not dressed as Dracula). The bat sat 2 tables over.
6) The man who won scariest costume received a $50 gift certificate, which he later used to take Ms. Black to dinner.
7) Later that week, John Beals went to dinner with the woman dressed as a bat, after they went to the theater, using the prizes they won at the party.
AnswerAmy Smith, ghost, bobbing for apples, movie tickets
Robert Brown, Frankenstein, scariest costume, $50 gift certificate
Belinda Martinez, bat, ring toss, $20 gift certificate
John Beals, Dracula, scavenger hunt, theater tickets
Mary Black, skeleton, pumpkin carving, amusement park passes
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Congressional Republicans 'Left to the Mercy' of Illinois Dems
It's likely to be a few more days before Democrats propose new boundaries for Illinois' U.S. House districts. But Republicans already know they're not going to like it.
Two things are for sure: (1) Census numbers mean that Illinois is losing a congressional seat; and (2) the new map will favor Democrats, who control redistricting.
"They could push me East. They could push me West. They could change the district altogether. They could leave it as is," said U.S. Rep. Joe Walsh, a freshman Republican from Chicago's Northwest suburbs. "We don't know and because nobody on the Republican side has any seat at this table, we're left to the mercy of the one party in Illinois that's running things."
Walsh freely acknowledges that if Republicans were in control, they'd draw a map that favors their candidates.
Meantime, Raja Krishnamoorthi isn't waiting for the new boundaries. The former Democratic candidate for Illinois comptroller is publicly "exploring" a run for Walsh's 8th district.
In an interview Sunday, Krishnamoorthi said that based on early reports it's "pretty clear that...Democrats are going to be more competitive in this district and other places as well."
On Tuesday in Springfield, the House and Senate panels tasked with redistricting are scheduled to hold a joint hearing on proposed maps for state legislative districts. This will be the third hearing since those boundaries were released late last week.
A separate public hearing is planned for following the release of the proposed U.S. House map, according to Rikeesha Phelon, a spokesperson for state Senate President John Cullerton, D-Chicago.
"I don't anticipate that it will be early in the week," Phelon wrote in an email.
Top Democrats want the maps approved before the General Assembly is set to adjourn on May 31st. After that, the proposal would need Republican votes in order to pass.


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Chroma type 301: 6 1/4" Japanese Veggie P03
The wide tapering blade of the Veggie Knife enables the expereinced cook to rock the knife when dicing fruit and vegetables.
The handle of the Type 301 by F.A. Porsche is constructed of 18/10 stainless steel, and the blade is made of high-quality Japanese 301 steel. The blade of each knife is carefully sharpened by the hand of a master.
The advantages Type 301 are:
An ergonomic handle - designed by F.A. Porsche working with the chef of the decade, Jörg Wörther
A metal "pearl" that clearly demarcates the end of the handle, for better control when cutting
A seamless perfection and hygienic transition from blade to handle
A special grinding method is used, so the knife stays sharp longer and is easier to sharpen
Never place the knife in the dishwasher. Hand wash and dry after every use.
Regularly sharpen the knife using the original Type 301 whetstone. Under no circumstances should a sharpening steel be used, as it will damage the blade.
Store the knife in a safe, secure manner, for example, in a knife block so the blade is not left exposed.
Only use wooden or plastic cutting boards, never marble or glass when cutting with a Type 301.
Only use the knife to prepare food. Do not use it to cut frozen foods, bones, or as a utility knife.


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It looks like the various problems with Apple's recent products (dodgy purple tinged pictures, Maps issues etc) have caused Apple's shares to drop by 27% and are now taking there toll on CEO Tim Cook's fortunes. Specifically, in 2012 his compensation was $4.17m after a salary raise of a massive 51% after just one full year doing the job, with no stock awards. This compensation consists of a $1.36m basic salary and $2.8m in incentive plan compensation, as reported by Apple in a regulatory filing. This is in stark contrast to Cook's 2011 compensation which consisted of a staggering $378m – one of the biggest pay packages ever – which was boosted by $376.2m in stock awards which he will receive over a decade. The lack of these stock awards, mean that his overall pay this year is down a huge 99%. Regardless of this slump, this is money that most of us can only ever dream of, still making him incredibly successful.
Shares of Apple, maker of the iPhone and iPad, have dropped 27 percent from a September record, building up pressure on Cook to introduce a new hit product to fend off rivals Google Inc. and Samsung Electronics Co. Apple co-founder Steve Jobs passed the reins to Cook before his death in October 2011.
Comments are closed.


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Guthrie enjoys marked turnaround under Eiland
Royals right-hander has blossomed since arriving in 2012 trade with Colorado
KANSAS CITY -- Jeremy Guthrie's half-season stay with the Colorado Rockies last year was not pleasant. Record 3-9, ERA 6.35.
"A long three months," he said.
Things brightened up, however, when he was traded to the Royals on July 20, 2012, and came under the guidance of pitching coach Dave Eiland, who had seen a lot of Guthrie in his Baltimore years when he was pitching coach of the American League East-rival Yankees.
"He was a guy who didn't always get the results that he should've gotten. He pitched up in the zone," Eiland said.
When Guthrie was obtained in exchange for pitcher Jonathan Sanchez, Eiland looked at Guthrie's Colorado video footage and found that things hadn't changed much. So when Guthrie reported to the Royals, Eiland had a talk with him.
"I've got a couple little things, but I want to see you pitch a game or two first," Eiland told him and then watched him lose to Minnesota and Seattle. "After that game in Seattle, I said, 'You ready to go?' and he said, 'Yeah.' So we went in the bullpen and made some adjustments."
Eiland adjusted Guthrie's shoulder tuck, changed his foot on the rubber, moved his hands down, worked on his balance.
"All that was designed to get him down in the zone and add a little deception," Eiland said. "He bought into it right away and worked on it hard, and continues to work on it to this day every day."
Guthrie also lost his third start for the Royals to Texas, but felt improvement. Since then, he has made 17 consecutive starts without a loss, a club record. The team has gone 15-2 in those games and Guthrie's personal record is 9-0 with a 2.25 ERA.
Guthrie's 2-0 win over the White Sox on Saturday was his first big league shutout in 189 starts. He's tossed 16 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings going into Thursday night's start at Baltimore.
"Now he's down in the zone and when he misses, he misses down," Eiland said. "Pitching from thigh to belt-high like he used to, when he missed he missed up. Now when he's from thigh down, his misses are down.
"And he gained some confidence. And once a guy with that pitchability gains some confidence, this is what happens."
Dick Kaegel is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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ACParadise Network: American Cosplay Paradise American Cosplay Experience American Cosplay Snapshots
Cosplayer amaryie > Costume of Mugen (Samurai Champloo)
- Most Recent Photo
- 09-02-2014
- Series
- Samurai Champloo
- Character
- Mugen
- Year Completed:
- 2013
- Construction Difficulty:
- Easy
- Wig styled by
- Ginryuu
- Costume worn at:
- Anime LA 2013
- Japan Expo USA 2014
About this Costume
- Construction Details:
Everything was made from pattern with broadcloth cotton. The shirt is laced with leather cording. The triangle on the back is muslin and appliqued. The orange on the shorts is bias tape that I weaved into the pants.
- Personal Thoughts:
- So...I've always wanted to cosplay Mugen since I first saw the series on Adult Swim (when Geneon owned it...I'm dating myself, I know). So when I learned dear ol' Ginryuu was a Jin cosplayer, I could not resist asking her to be her Mugen, and got a successful reply! It was a TON of fun being in this costume (maybe not the shoes, but cussing and having fun was xD). It's way too comfortable for a cosplay and I laugh so hard at my facial hair whenever I see it. It's ridiculous and I love it.
ALSO SHOUT OUT TO SAMCHAMP GATHERING FOLKS AT ALA 2013! You guys absolutely ROCK.
Wig Details
- Styling Notes
- Held it upside down on a clothesline, hairspray, let dry, repeat. Then HACK with scissors. Then let Ginryuu hack with scissors. Done. xD
- Wig Review
- I was spoiled with this wig, just saying.
Add a Comment


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Pesticides: they're in our food, our water, and our environment. In a recent biological opinion open for public comment until the end of this week, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says that the use of one in particular, Rozol, could kill black-footed ferrets and aplomado falcons, not to mention other raptors and even passerine birds.
"We have a number of incidents where we found dead birds that died either from primary or secondary effects," says Nancy Golden, a toxicologist with the USFWS. Rozol, as well as other rodenticides used on the landscape, are quite toxic to birds as well, she says. "I think there is a growing concern, at least among the wildlife community, for anticoagulants and pesticides."
Used to control pesky prairie dogs in Great Plains and Rocky Mountain states, Rozol is an anticoagulant, meaning it causes uncontrollable bleeding in anything that ingests it. Even though it is meant to destroy targeted animals, those that eat animals exposed to the pesticide, like black-footed ferrets that eat prairie dogs, are also in danger. The anticoagulant builds up in their bodies, sometimes proving fatal. (Rozol is not a known endocrine disruptor, or synthetic chemical that mimics or interferes with normal hormonal function.)
"Ferruginous hawks, golden eagles, bald eagles, owls, magpies, turkey vultures, badgers, swift foxes, coyotes, raccoons, and grain eaters like wild turkeys and red-winged blackbirds have been turning up dead around Rozol treatment sites, and while some carcasses have yet to be tested, lethal concentrations of Rozol are being found in ones that have been. Rozol also directly threatens the grievously endangered black-footed ferret by both direct poisoning and by destroying its obligate food and refuge source," Ted Williams wrote in an Incite article titled "Doggone."
Hundreds of thousands of pounds of Rozol are distributed across the landscape, says Ron Klataske, director of Audubon of Kansas, poisoning prairie dogs on a massive scale.
The USFWS is working with private landowners to reintroduce black-footed ferrets in Logan County, Kansas. Yet that county alone bought 46 tons of Rozol Prairie Dog Bait in 2008 to eradicate the animals.
"They have allowed far too loose of a reign on the individual or individuals who have allowed Rozol to surge forward and be used in this fashion and it's really inexcusable," he says.
A biological opinion issued by the USFWS, which focuses solely on how Rozol's use could affect endangered species, states that three of the 21 endangered species assessed—black-footed ferrets, aplomado falcons, and gray wolves—could all still be negatively affected. Although certain measures are in place to reduce the amount of harm, there may still be a number of individuals that die from the chemical's use.
"We're not saying no to prairie-dog control, we're saying no to indiscriminate killing," says Brian Rutledge, executive director of Audubon Wyoming and National Audubon's vice president for the Rocky Mountain Region.
The solution, for now, may be to submit a comment to the draft biological opinion stating that more should be done to protect wildlife listed under the Endangered Species Act. Then, "what needs to happen for this progress to continue and accelerate and for the black-footed ferret to remain on the planet is for the EPA to ban Rozol and similar biocides for prairie-dog control," Williams writes in his article. "That doesn't seem like much of a hardship for ranchers who have a cheap, safe, effective alternative in zinc phosphide. And that doesn't seem like a big order for an enlightened administration that, with its superb appointments, has repeatedly demonstrated concern for and understanding of wildlife."
Click here to see the draft biological opinion, and leave a comment by clicking on "Submit a Comment."
For more reading on black-footed ferrets and other endangered species, check out our article titled "The Least Among Us."
Also, see more photographs from "Doggone" here.


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Madras and Plaid Clothing: Shop the Look
Summer Style: Why Madras Is Perfect to Wear Right Now
Summer Style: Why Madras Is Perfect to Wear Right Now
As far as prints go, madras has earned its stripes as a preppier staple. It makes us think of New England Summers and looks fresh and seasonal on our button-downs, bikinis, and even sneakers. Madras also has the benefit of being one of the more breezy fabrics that looks just right when it's been appropriately rumpled, and let's just say August is our month to be appropriately rumpled. Click through to shop our madras picks, many of which are on sale.
Boy Madras checked cotton shirt
from NET-A-PORTER.COM
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-21more images


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SAN FRANCISCO and GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. Meijer announced that it has selected Premier Retail Networks to provide advertising sales and sales support services for the retailer's in-store media network.
Under the multi-year ad sales agreement, PRN will provide Meijer with national and regional advertising sales representation and support for clients and advertising agencies across the country.
"Meijer gives us a great strategic addition to our existing ad sales footprint by providing advertisers and agencies with the ability to reach highly desirable consumers in the Midwest," said Scott Karnedy, PRN chief sales officer. "Meijer is an innovator in the retail sector, and we're very pleased they chose our teams to support their in-store network."


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The purpose of plastic surgery is to harmonize the way you feel on the inside with the way you appear on the outside. My staff and I are commiteed to providing the information our patients need to make the best decisions for themsleves. We are dedicated to artistry, integrity and excellence.
Monday through Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Facial Rejuvenation
Body Contouring
Breast Surgery
Body Contouring
Breast Surgery
Dr. Anson sees new patient consultations for facial rejuvenation, breast surgery and body contouring. Botox, collagen, fotofacial and laser hair removal are available. We offer full skin care services including facial treatments with our licensed aesthetician.
We are fortunate to have a fully accredited surgical center present on site. Anesthesia for Dr. Anson's patient's is provided by board certified anesthesiologists.
- General Surgery - University of Illinois, 1983 - 1990
- Plastic Surgery - New York University, 1990 - 1992
- Microsurgery - New York University, 1992
- Assistant Professor - University of New Mexico, 1993 - 1995
- Lovelace Cosmetic Surgery - 1995 - 1996
- Private Practice - Las Vegas, NV, 1997 - Present
- American Board of Plastic Surgery 1995
- American Board of Surgery 1991
- Recertified American Board of Surgery 2000
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
- Ameican College of Surgeons
- Summerlin Hospital, Las Vegas, NV


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Enroll -HD: A Prospective Registry Study in a Global Huntington's Disease Cohort
Recruitment status was: Recruiting
- Full Text View
- Tabular View
- No Study Results Posted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
|Huntington's Disease
|Study Type:
|Observational [Patient Registry]
|Study Design:
|Time Perspective: Prospective
|Target Follow-Up Duration:
|1 Year
|Official Title:
|Enroll -HD: A Prospective Registry Study in a Global Huntington's Disease Cohort
|Estimated Enrollment:
|Study Start Date:
|July 2012
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|18 Years and older (Adult, Senior)
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
|Sampling Method:
|Non-Probability Sample
Inclusion Criteria:
- Carriers: This group comprises the primary study population and consists of individuals who carry the HD gene expansion mutation.
- Controls: This group comprises the comparator study population and consists of individuals who do not carry the HD expansion mutation.
These two major categories can be further subdivided into six different subgroups of eligible individuals:
- Manifest/Motor-manifest HD: Carriers with clinical features that are regarded in the opinion of the investigator as diagnostic of HD.
- Pre-Manifest/-Motor-manifest HD: Carriers without clinical features regarded as diagnostic of HD.
- Genotype Unknown: This group includes a first or second degree relative, i.e., related by blood to a carrier, who has not undergone predictive testing for HD and therefore has an undetermined carrier status.
- Genotype Negative: This group includes a first or second degree relative, i.e., related by blood to a carrier, who has undergone predictive testing for HD and is known not to carry the HD expansion mutation.
- Family Control: Family members or individuals not related by blood to carriers (e.g., spouses, partners, caregivers).
- Community Controls: Individuals unrelated to HD carriers who did not grow up in a family affected by HD. Data collected from community controls will be used for generation of normative data for sub-studies.
Participant status will be captured in the study database using 2 variables: 1) Investigator Determined Status: this will be based on clinical signs and symptoms and genotyping performed as part of medical care, and will be updated at every visit and 2) Research Genotyping Status: this will be based on genotyping conducted as part of Enroll-HD study procedures. Based on research genotyping, participants will be reclassified under this variable from Genotype Unknown to 'Carriers' or 'Controls'. Investigators and participants will be blinded to this reclassification.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Individuals who do not meet inclusion criteria,
- Individuals with choreic movement disorders in the context of a negative test for the HD gene mutation.
- For Community Controls: those individuals with a major central nervous system disorder will be excluded (e.g. stroke, Parkinson disease, Multiple Sclerosis, etc.).
Participants under 18 may be eligible to participate (if they have juvenile-onset HD).
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01574053
|Contact: James Moyer
Show 131 Study Locations
|Principal Investigator:
|Bernhard G Landwehrmeyer, MD, PhD
|University of Ulm
|Study Director:
|Joseph Giuliano
|CHDI Management Inc.
|Responsible Party:
|CHDI Foundation, Inc.
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|NCT01574053 History of Changes
|Other Study ID Numbers:
Enroll -HD
|Study First Received:
|April 6, 2012
|Last Updated:
|June 1, 2015
Keywords provided by CHDI Foundation, Inc.:
Huntington's Disease
Huntington Disease
Juvenile Huntington's Disease
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
Huntington Disease
Basal Ganglia Diseases
Brain Diseases
Central Nervous System Diseases
Nervous System Diseases
Movement Disorders
Heredodegenerative Disorders, Nervous System
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Genetic Diseases, Inborn
Cognition Disorders
Neurocognitive Disorders
Mental Disorders
ClinicalTrials.gov processed this record on September 25, 2017


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Ga-DOTATOC Versus Octreoscan + CT
This study has suspended participant recruitment.
(Interim analysis. Decision has not yet been made regarding additional enrollment.)
University of Iowa
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Information provided by (Responsible Party):
Sue O'Dorisio, University of Iowa
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
First received: May 31, 2013
Last updated: August 23, 2017
Last verified: August 2017
- Full Text View
- Tabular View
- No Study Results Posted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
Detailed Description:
This clinical trial studies gallium Ga 68-edotreotide positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) compared with indium In 111 pentetreotide plus contrast-enhanced CT (or MRI) in diagnosing patients with neuroendocrine tumors and other somatostatin receptor positive tumors. Diagnostic procedures, such as gallium Ga 68-edotreotide PET/CT, may help find and diagnose somatostatin receptor positive neuroendocrine tumors. It is not yet known whether Ga 68-edotreotide PET/CT is as effective as indium In 111 pentetreotide plus contrast-enhanced CT (or MRI) in diagnosis and staging of patients with neuroendocrine tumors.
|Adult Medulloblastoma Childhood Medulloblastoma Neuroblastoma Neuroendocrine Tumor Somatostatinoma
|Radiation: gallium Ga 68-edotreotide Procedure: positron emission tomography/computed tomography Radiation: indium In 111 pentetreotide Procedure: computed tomography Procedure: contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging
|Study Type:
|Study Design:
|Intervention Model: Single Group Assignment
Masking: None (Open Label)
Primary Purpose: Diagnostic
|Official Title:
|Comparator Study of 68Ga-DOTATOC PET/CT With Octreoscan + High-resolution, Contrast-enhanced CT for Diagnosis and Staging in Neuroendocrine Tumors and Other Somatostatin Receptor Positive Tumors
Resource links provided by NLM:
Genetics Home Reference related topics: neuroblastoma
MedlinePlus related topics: Carcinoid Tumors
Drug Information available for: Indium Pentetreotide Indium In 111 pentetreotide
Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center resources: Neuroblastoma Carcinoid Tumor Medulloblastoma Medulloblastoma, Childhood Somatostatinoma Neuroepithelioma GliomaU.S. FDA Resources
Further study details as provided by Sue O'Dorisio, University of Iowa:
Primary Outcome Measures:
- Equivalence of conventional imaging and gallium Ga 68-edotreotide PET using percentage of concordance in tumor detection [ Time Frame: Up to 6 months ]Binomial exact tests will be used.
- Proportion of discordance in tumor detection [ Time Frame: Up to 6 months ]Binomial exact tests will be used.
|Estimated Enrollment:
|Study Start Date:
|April 2013
|Estimated Primary Completion Date:
|July 2018 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)
|Assigned Interventions
Experimental: Diagnostic (gallium Ga 68-edotreotide PET/CT)
Patients receive gallium Ga 68-edotreotide IV and undergo PET/CT scan. Within 120 days, patients undergo standard indium In 111 pentetreotide contrast-enhanced CT or MRI scan. Patients may undergo a second gallium Ga 68-edotreotide PET/CT scan within 3-6 months if the lesions of the first scan cannot be confirmed.
Radiation: gallium Ga 68-edotreotide
Given IV
Other Names:Procedure: positron emission tomography/computed tomography
Undergo gallium Ga 68-edotreotide PET/CT scanRadiation: indium In 111 pentetreotide
Undergo indium In 111 pentetreotide contrast-enhanced CT or MRI scan
Other Names:Procedure: computed tomography
Undergo indium In 111 pentetreotide contrast-enhanced CT scan
Other Name: tomography, computedProcedure: contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging
Undergo indium In 111 pentetreotide contrast-enhanced CT or MRI scan
Other Name: Contrast-enhanced MRI
Detailed Description:
I. To compare efficacy of [68Ga]-DOTA-tyr3-Octreotide (68Ga-DOTATOC) (gallium Ga 68-edotreotide) PET/CT with Octreoscan (indium In 111 pentetreotide) + high-resolution, contrast-enhanced CT for diagnosis and staging in patients with somatostatin receptor expressing tumors.
Patients receive gallium Ga 68-edotreotide intravenously (IV) and undergo PET/CT scan. Within 120 days, patients undergo standard indium In 111 pentetreotide contrast-enhanced CT or MRI scan. Patients may also undergo a second gallium Ga 68-edotreotide PET/CT scan within 3-6 months if the lesions of the first scan cannot be confirmed.
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|2 Years and older (Child, Adult, Senior)
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
Inclusion Criteria:
- Signed informed consent
- Biopsy proven neuroendocrine tumor, neuroblastoma, medulloblastoma, or other somatostatin receptor positive tumor
- Off Sandostatin (octreotide acetate)-long acting release (LAR) > 4 weeks and off immediate release (subcutaneous) for 12 hrs prior to 68Ga-DOTATOC PET-CT
- Karnofsky performance status or Lansky Play Scale status of >= 50 (or Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group [ECOG]/World Health Organization [WHO] equivalent)
- Subject is male; or is a female who is either pre-menarchal, surgically sterile (has had a documented bilateral oophorectomy and/or documented hysterectomy), postmenopausal (> 1 years without menses), non-lactating, or of childbearing potential for whom a serum pregnancy test (with the results known prior to investigational product administration) is negative; a negative serum pregnancy test will be required for all female subjects with child bearing potential; if a false pregnancy test is suspected, e.g., perimenopausal condition, an obstetrician will be consulted to determine if she is/is capable of becoming pregnant
- No therapy other than Sandostatin since last Octreoscan + diagnostic CT
- Fresh frozen (recommended) or paraffin fixed (required) specimen of primary or metastases available for ribonucleic acid (RNA) and immunohistochemistry (IHC)
Exclusion Criteria:
- Pregnancy or breast feeding
- Surgical resection, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or biologic therapy since last Octreoscan + CT; continuation of the same dose of Sandostatin-LAR or subcutaneous Sandostatin is allowed
- Medical condition uncontrolled by treatment making completion of study unlikely
- Weight more than 400 pounds (subjects who weigh more than 400 pounds will not be able to fit inside the imaging machines)
- Inability to lie still for the entire imaging time (e.g. cough, severe arthritis, etc.)
- Inability to complete the needed investigational and standard-of-care imaging examinations due to other reasons (severe claustrophobia, radiation phobia, etc.)
- Any additional medical condition, serious intercurrent illness, or other extenuating circumstance that, in the opinion of the investigator, may significantly interfere with study compliance
Contacts and Locations
Choosing to participate in a study is an important personal decision. Talk with your doctor and family members or friends about deciding to join a study. To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the Contacts provided below. For general information, see Learn About Clinical Studies.
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01869725
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01869725
|United States, Iowa
|University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics
|Iowa City, Iowa, United States, 52242
Sponsors and Collaborators
University of Iowa
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
|Principal Investigator:
|M. Sue O' Dorisio
|University of Iowa
More Information
Keywords provided by Sue O'Dorisio, University of Iowa:
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
ClinicalTrials.gov processed this record on September 25, 2017
|Responsible Party:
|Sue O'Dorisio, Principal Investigator, University of Iowa
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|NCT01869725 History of Changes
|Other Study ID Numbers:
NCI-2013-00936 ( Registry Identifier: CTRP (Clinical Trial Reporting Program) )
P30CA086862 ( U.S. NIH Grant/Contract )
R01CA167632 ( U.S. NIH Grant/Contract )
|Study First Received:
|May 31, 2013
|Last Updated:
|August 23, 2017
Keywords provided by Sue O'Dorisio, University of Iowa:
Neuroendocrine Tumor
Ga-DOTATOC PET
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
Neuroendocrine Tumors
Carcinoid Tumor
Neuroectodermal Tumors, Primitive, Peripheral
Neuroectodermal Tumors, Primitive
Neoplasms, Neuroepithelial
Neuroectodermal Tumors
Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal
Neoplasms by Histologic Type
Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial
Neoplasms, Nerve Tissue
Carcinoma, Neuroendocrine
Carcinoma, Islet Cell
Pancreatic Neoplasms
Digestive System Neoplasms
Neoplasms by Site
Endocrine Gland Neoplasms
Digestive System Diseases
Pancreatic Diseases
Endocrine System Diseases
ClinicalTrials.gov processed this record on September 25, 2017


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City has done well without restaurant's help
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text:
"Significant resources" will be committed to helping dairy producers become more environmentally sustainable over the next several years, now that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has renewed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the dairy industry.
Since signing the first MOU in December 2009, nearly 180 awards have been made to help finance anaerobic digesters. Additionally, during this period, USDA awarded approximately 140 REAP loans and grants to help dairy farmers develop other types of renewable energy and energy-efficiency systems. Also, the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service has provided $257 million in funding since 2009 that has helped more than 6,000 dairy farmers plan and implement conservation practices.
Those types of efforts will continue.
At a press briefing on Wednesday, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack was reluctant to put an exact dollar figure on it.
"We are willing to commit significant resources," he said.
"No producers have been more out-front on these issues than the dairy producers," Vilsack said.
"The dairy industry has always been proud of being the original environmentalists," said Dairy Management Inc. CEO Tom Gallagher, who appeared with Vilsack at a signing ceremony at the White House. (Dairy Management Inc. manages the national dairy checkoff program.)
The MOU supports the dairy industry's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 25 percent by the year 2020.
Dairy industry officials will use a University of Arkansas study as the scientific baseline for measuring progress against that goal. For more on that study, click here and here.


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Saw this today on reddit and thought I would pass it along
Sorry if this has already been posted, search didn't bring it up.
Saw this today on reddit and thought I would pass it along
Sorry if this has already been posted, search didn't bring it up.
Almost need to see to believe.
The key to immortality is first living a life worth remembering. - St. Augustine
Some people feel the rain. Others just get wet.
- Bob Marley
Do people REALLY have that much problem squatting??
And are that many people confounded/afraid/whatever by the possibility of finding some deep bush off the trail to relieve themselves...sheesh!
My biggest problem is finding dense enough bush during the 'bare tree' season - just as I think I'm far enough off the trail, I see someone else coming from the opposite direction and realize I'm not nearly as well hidden as I thought I was - so far I've only been caught fastening my pants, thankfully...
i don't have trouble... but i also do body weight squats several times a day to stay in shape... so its not that big of a deal to me... but to the wife that may be an easier thing to do...
Live, Laugh, Love, if that doesn't work. Load, Aim and Fire, repeat as necessary...
Buy, Try, Learn, Repeat
the video was awesome. if she doesn't make it with her new invention she should go into video productions.
"Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I'm not sure about the former."
- Albert Einstein
Pants down strapped to a tree. Bears are going to love this.
I prefer the Northwoods design... If I'm gonna use technology to take a dump in the woods it'd better be a significant improvement. This looks like a minor improvement at best. Has no one ever shown this girl the 'log perch' method?
"We're the Sultans of Swing."
<shakes head>
I'm sayin' Laura took a dive in her doody.
It may not be rocket science, but it's still science.


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With Facebook mere miles to the north and Google to the south, Bayshore Christian Ministries (BCM) aims to share a slice of the high-tech pie.
The faith-based organization, an East Palo Alto mainstay that for three decades has served youth through its year-round tutoring, mentoring and Bible club activities, saw its focus expand in 2013 as teens clamored for a place at the technology table.
BCM piloted two programs – the EPA Chica Squad and Teens 'n Tech – to introduce youth to computer science and programming principles.
According to Executive Director Rolando Zeledon, the initiatives are designed to engage youth, teach them practical skills and, most importantly, challenge them to create products that move the community forward in a positive, influential way.
"Holistically, it's not just about the skills, and it's not just about leadership – though, obviously, that combination is powerful – it's about what they do with those skills," he said. "It's value-centered, and we focus on developing the character values that come along with that."
Zeledon sees another benefit for his BCM charges, who often lack the exposure, means and resources to pursue tech-related activities like robotics.
"What's the biggest need we have?" he asked. "Hope. We still have kids who come from broken homes, broken situations."
Often, according to Zeledon, kids raised in East Palo Alto define success as leaving – moving to another community.
"But imagine the economic transformation that could happen when you equip a child with not just the tech skills to remain in the community, but also with a passion and heart for that community," he said. "Here at BCM, we're helping kids think about serving others. Technology is the hook, but we have a bigger commission – serving deep is what we're about."
In the big picture, Zeledon said, BCM wants to impart technical knowledge that leads to 21st-century workplace skills, but the programming is designed for students to "discover their gifting."
"We want students to realize, 'We all have different gifts, we all have different skills, but together we can come up with something,'" he said. "It's a win-win – tech plus character."
Despite the new high-tech offerings, BCM remains committed to boosting literacy. The organization used last year's Town Crier Holiday Fund contribution to expand its KidSmart tutoring program, enabling 20 percent more students to enroll. BCM will use the 2014 Holiday Fund donation to shore up its programs.
As Bayshore Christian Ministries celebrates its 30th anniversary with a gala event May 4, the organization's board plans to conduct a strategic review and update its programs.


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We now know when every 2013 NFL regular-season game will be played—all 256 from Week 1 through Week 17. In the process of whittling down the sked to the 10 most marquee-worthy matchups, one man—make that one Manning—becomes the dominant figure.
Peyton Manning's unofficial redemption tour begins at home in the NFL kickoff game on Thursday, Sept. 5. Brother Eli and his Giants also make the cut, but there's no doubt Denver Orange is the league's ratings gold:
1. Broncos at Patriots (Week 12, Nov. 24, 8:30 p.m. ET, NBC). After a year off in 2011, the iconic matchup of Peyton Manning vs. Tom Brady resumed last year with Manning now in Denver. The Patriots won at Foxborough, 31-21, in Week 5, and we thought we would see an exciting rematch in the AFC title game—until the Ravens intervened. Now there's an added twist, with Brady's former favorite target, Wes Welker, catching passes from Manning. Despite that 2012 victory, the Broncos are the only team against which Brady has a losing record (4-6, including playoffs). Manning will be trying to win his third career game at New England to improve Denver's playoff position. The offensive fireworks will be there, and it will be weird to see Welker working for the visitors. When you also consider the future Hall of Famers' ages, you never know when we'll see the last of Manning vs. Brady. Enjoy every such duel while you have the chance.
2. Broncos at Colts (Week 7, Oct. 20, 8:30 p.m. ET, NBC). When faced with the option of keeping Peyton Manning vs. drafting Andrew Luck a year ago, the Colts chose to let Manning move on and moved forward with another potential franchise passer at No. 1 overall. Now that they became a playoff team again with Luck, this game will be more than rolling out the welcome mat for their still-beloved No. 18. There will be plenty of his old jerseys in the stands, but no mistake, Indy fans are happy with the new kid. While the emotions will be riding a mile high for Manning, so will the slings and arrows of Denver's passing game. For Luck, it's the ultimate test for a young quarterback to prove there's no such thing as a sophomore slump.
3. Packers at 49ers (Week 1, Sept. 8, 4:25 p.m. ET, FOX). The Packers have had a long offseason to figure out how to slow down Colin Kaepernick and the 49ers' dynamic read-option offense. Once the Niners hit overdrive, they ran away with a 45-31 divisional round playoff rout in January. It spoiled Aaron Rodgers' return to Northern California, where even his elite passing talents weren't enough to play catch-up. Rodgers is the class of the league's quarterbacks, but Kaepernick, fresh off a Super Bowl run, is trying to cement himself in the upper tier in his first full season as a starter. This matchup of NFC contenders brings back memories of Steve Young vs. Brett Favre. Only in this case, Rodgers and Kaepernick are both equal parts gunslingers and athletes.
4. Broncos at Giants (Week 2, Sept. 15, 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS). For the first time since the Mannings began playing against each other on the professional stage, Eli can boast having one more Super Bowl ring. Brotherly love is nice, but family bragging rights are just as sweet for two of the league's coolest, most competitive quarterbacks. In the previous two matchups, in 2006 and 2010, Peyton's Colts got the better of Manning's Giants, once on the road, once at home, both on Sunday nights. While Eli tries to get some payback, it shapes up as a more critical game for New York in what likely will be another tight NFC East playoff race.
5. 49ers at Seahawks (Week 2, Sept. 15, 8:30 p.m. ET, NBC). There's nothing quite like the big-game scene of CenturyLink Field, where every 12th Man, woman and child work together to break the Puget Sound barrier. The 'Hawks were the only team to go undefeated at home last season, and they may need to do it again to pass the Niners and Falcons and grab the NFC's No. 1 seed. Seattle ripped San Francisco 42-13 in prime time in Week 16, but it wasn't enough to overtake the 49ers in the NFC West. With both division and conference supremacy on the line, expect the Seahawks' fans to be louder than ever as their team looks better than ever.
6. Packers at Giants (Week 11, Nov. 17, 8:30 p.m. ET, NBC). Eli has seemingly had the Packers number, whether he's been dueling Favre or Rodgers. In reality, he's 1-3 against the Packers in the regular season but has gone 2-0 at Lambeau Field in the playoffs en route to his two Super Bowl titles. Last season, Manning helped the Giants roll to a 38-10 November home win over the Packers on Sunday night. It marked one of his best games and a rare clunker for Rodgers. The Packers have a brutal first-place schedule, with other out-of-division road games against the Ravens, Cowboys and Bengals and with the Falcons, Steelers and Redskins all coming to Lambeau. Their away contests against the 49ers and Giants, however, will determine whether they are back as strong Super Bowl threats.
7. 49ers at Redskins (Week 12, Nov. 25, 8:40 p.m. ET, ESPN). We're hoping that both Kaepernick and Robert Griffin III are healthy for this one, as it will be the most intriguing pistol battles since Alexander Hamilton vs. Aaron Burr. While the exciting young dual threat quarterbacks will be let loose to do their deep passing and quick running, they will also be challenged by two talented defenses that practice against this style of QB every day. The Niners are traveling cross-country, but Jim Harbaugh has a knack for getting them in the right East Coast mind-set. Kaepernick vs. RGIII already makes this is a potential show-stopper, but the offensive gamesmanship of Harbaugh and Mike Shanahan really put the icing on it.
8. Ravens at Broncos (Week 1, Sept. 5, 8:30 p.m. ET, NBC). The first game of the season is a little removed from being the best game, but if it's anything like the divisional playoff matchup, we better reserve a long viewing block. The lasting image of Baltimore's 38-35 double-overtime upset in Denver was wide receiver Jacoby Jones dancing into the end zone in the final minute to pull the Ravens into an improbable tie. Ray Lewis is no longer around to stare down Manning on the other side, but now it's all about him vs. that other lanky Super Bowl MVP QB who beat him on his home turf. You better believe the Ravens are a real offense-oriented power with Joe Flacco, and he'll come in determined to show there was nothing streaky about his postseason performance. The Ravens will want to remind us they are the champs, even if they're not marking it with the traditional home game. Manning will need to start by playing better than he did in January.
9. Patriots at Falcons (Week 4, Sept. 29, 8:30 p.m. ET, NBC). The Falcons have plenty of other juicy games, including matchups against the 49ers, Seahawks, Packers and Redskins outside the division and fiery affairs with the Saints and Panthers inside the NFC South. The Patriots, however, present what will be the most fun for lovers of prolific passing in the shootout-friendly confines of the Georgia Dome. Matt Ryan is knocking on the door of the elite QB group, and coming off a career season, the Boston College product is only a couple of huge breakthrough victories away from declaring his arrival. There is also some ex-Patriots flavor here, with former ace scout Thomas Dimitroff serving as Atlanta's GM and Asante Samuel at cornerback. Some might say it's also the nicest coach in the NFL (Mike Smith) vs. most cutthroat coach in the league (Bill Belichick).
10. Texans at Ravens (Week 3, Sept. 22, 1 p.m. ET, CBS). We can't forget about the reigning AFC South champions and the most electric defensive player in the league, J.J. Watt. Watt is now joined by Canton-bound Ed Reed. You might recall that when the Texans gave Baltimore its worst drubbing of last season—a 43-13 rout at Houston in Week 7—they looked like the AFC favorites. Watt and friends flustered Flacco and now the Ravens' better-compensated quarterback will need to deal with old friend Reed, who will be ready to pounce on any mistakes.


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Fairfax County Seeks Volunteers to Plant Trees for Earth Day
Fairfax County Office of Public
12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 551
Fairfax, VA 22035-0065
April 19, 2005
Fairfax County Seeks Volunteers to Plant Trees for Earth Day
Residents, businesses and organizations are invited to plant 450 container plants and 100 herbaceous plants in celebration of Earth Day, Saturday, April 23, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Lake Fairfax Park, 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston.
As part of Fairfax County's riparian buffer restoration initiative, volunteers will work alongside the leading experts in riparian restoration to plant native shrubs and plants on approximately 42,000 square feet of the park and install live stakes to stabilize eroding stream banks. Volunteers will also have the chance to visit various educational booths hosted by local environmental organizations such as Earth Sangha and the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District.
More than 80 volunteers plant native trees at Carney Park, a Fairfax County riparian buffer restoration planting site, on Sunday, April 3, 2005. Volunteers participated in the planting as part of the county's riparian buffer restoration project initiated in March 2005, to improve water quality, protect streams and stream banks and improve wildlife habitat. (Photo/Chris Bright of Earth Sangha)
Fairfax County initiated the riparian buffer restoration project in March 2005, to restore natural function to the land next to streams and rivers by planting native vegetation in these areas. This project is part of the county's ongoing watershed planning and implementation program to restore and protect our watersheds.
"Earth Day affords us an opportunity to celebrate and secure the Environmental Excellence 20-Year Vision Plan adopted by the Board of Supervisors," said Mason District Supervisor Penny Gross. "Conservation of our limited natural resources must be interwoven into all our decisions, both governmental and personal, not just for us, but for future generations of county residents."
The countywide project is being conducted to mitigate stormwater runoff into local streams and to support the Board of Supervisors' adopted Environmental Agenda. Volunteers and partners for the project include Earth Sangha, Fairfax County Park Authority, Northern Virginia Conservation Trust, Virginia Department of Forestry and Fairfax ReLeaf.
As part of the riparian buffer restoration project this spring, seven sites have been designated by the county. The county anticipates restoring 40 sites by the summer of 2006 through a combination of volunteer and contracted plantings.
Riparian buffers provide many benefits to the community by protecting land and streams. Some of these benefits are flood control, storm damage prevention, wildlife habitat and vital protection for aquatic life in streams.
Water quality, stream bank stability, habitat and the overall quality of our streams all depend on high quality riparian buffers. Restoring riparian buffers is an integral component for maintaining the high quality of life in Fairfax County.
Volunteers can learn more about the project and sign up to volunteer by
contacting the Stormwater Planning Division, 703-324-5500, TTY 711,
e-mail firstname.lastname@example.com or
visit the county Web site at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dpwes/stormwater/riparianbuffer.
For additional information, contact Fred A. Rose, P.E., chief, Watershed
Planning and Assessment Branch or Dipmani Kumar, P.E., project manager,
at 703-324-5500, TTY 711.


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Posted 7 years ago
(1 item)
This Kewpie Doll belongs to a very good friend of mine. He does not know much about it. It is believed to have belonged to his ancestors. The only marking it has a round metal piece about the size of a dime, is stamped Patented and Copyrighted 1913. We believe it may be German? but not sure as the wording is english that is stamped on it. My friend does not know much about his ancestors or exactly where they came from only they came to US in early 1900's and believes this doll make have made the journey with them. We would love to know any info or any sites we may go to learn more. Height of doll is 6", at widest point is the head 2 1/2", it is also solid bisque or porcelain.


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CLINTON — The East Feliciana Parish School Board voted Thursday to ask voters on April 6 to approve a 38-mill property tax increase for 10 years to support the parish's school system.
Based on 2012 property assessments, the tax increase would provide about $4.4 million more each year to support the system.
The school system also would pick up about $1.46 million more in state Minimum Foundation Program funds because of the increase in local support, certified public accountant Tommy LeJeune told the board.
East Feliciana has a backlog of construction and maintenance needs, beats only St. Helena Parish for teacher pay in the immediate region and faces additional expenses to meet state requirements in technology and curriculum, board members said.
The parish also has the lowest total property tax millage in Louisiana, 50.8 mills in 2011, and some railroads doing business in the state are allowed to claim their domiciles in the parish with the lowest property taxes.
If the railroads changed domiciles to avoid paying higher taxes, the school system would lose about $342,500, LeJeune said.
Parish voters have not approved new taxes for schools in 31 years. The board now levies a 3.34-mill tax authorized by the state constitution and 17 mills periodically renewed by voters.
Although all 11 board members attending the meeting said they supported a tax election, they differed on how the proposition should be presented in a special election.
A motion to break the proposal into four separate propositions for technology enhancement, construction and maintenance, additional instructional materials and employee salaries failed by one vote.
Board members Beth Dawson, Melvin Hollins, James Cupit, Paul Kent and Mitch Harrell supported presenting voters with four choices, but they were outvoted by Olivia Harris, Michael Bradford, Deborah Spurlock Haynes, Broderick Brooks, Rhonda Matthews and Rufus Nesbitt.
Cupit and Harrell also voted later against presenting the tax proposal as one item. Board member Richard Terrell was absent.
The board also voted to issue $750,000 in special 15-year revenue bonds for some immediate building needs, primarily new heating and cooling systems in parish schools. The bonds will be repaid with proceeds from the constitutional tax.
Other items discussed during the meeting included:
BONUSES DENIED: The board voted 7-4 to accept Superintendent Henderson Lewis' plan to deny bonuses to teachers in a teacher advancement program last year if they left the school system at the end of school year. The bonus, a minimum of $2,000, was to be awarded to teachers whose students met academic growth targets.
Lewis said 40 teachers who received TAP training left after school ended, and he followed the board's lead in denying "13th checks" to teachers who are no longer teaching when the surplus, dedicated tax revenue is divided.
Former teachers Katie Andrews, Staci Williams and Maya Bennett protested the decision, saying the money was meant to reward their performance and was not presented as an incentive to stay in the district.
Only Dawson, Hollins, Cupit and Harrell supported giving the bonuses to former employees.


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It has often been said about Pacific Grove politics that it gets so intense because the stakes are so low. No matter who wins at the ballot box, the waves will still break at Lovers Point and the charming neighborhoods will remain just as lovely.
But election season has brought out plenty of real issues this time around, issues that actually could change the community, and candidates hoping to find ways to balance charm and commerce.
It does matter how people vote, and, fortunately, there is no shortage of qualified candidates. Those who stand out as the best choices this time around are Bill Kampe for mayor and Bob Huitt, Casey Lucius and Dan Miller for the three available spots on the City Council.
Though Kampe is a relative newcomer to P.G., living in the city for "only" a decade, he has packed a lifetime of activity and service into the time. He now serves as mayor pro tem and is the City Council's liaison to the Fort Ord Reuse Authority as well as the city Planning Commission and Architectural Review Board.
Kampe spent 35 years with Hewlett-Packard and Agilent Technologies in senior management roles and has command of business and management. Significantly, one of his specialties was customer service.
He holds graduate degrees in engineering and business from MIT. In other words, he's a very smart fellow.
Kampe has the demeanor and the skills to lead the city through the process of determining whether and how to turn the Holman Building into a hotel, and he is equally well-equipped to help find solutions to other challenges, including the city's oppressive pension debt and its antiquated infrastructure.
Mayor Carmelita Garcia has worked long and hard in a thankless position. She has struggled to keep a divided council pulling in the same direction, however, and her public comments have undermined the council's working relationship with the city manager. A change is in order.
For the council, Huitt and Miller often take opposite positions on the issues, but they don't just argue. They do their homework. They represent different ways of thinking and represent various constituencies, but isn't that exactly what they're supposed to do?
Huitt can seem too laidback at times while Miller can be overly aggressive. We're hopeful that Kampe, as mayor, could draw out their strengths to the advantage of the citizenry.
To further strengthen the council, voters also should support political newcomer Casey Lucius, who comes with an absolutely sparkling military and educational record. Her seven-year stint in the Navy included intelligence training, two years on an aircraft carrier, completion of a master's degree in national security and service as the intelligence briefer for the commander of the Pacific Fleet. She is now an assistant professor at the Naval War College and the Naval Postgraduate School. This account barely touches on her accomplishments. She seems to have put the same level of commitment into studying the issues of her community.
Kampe, Huitt, Lucius and Miller would not agree on everything, but they would make sure that the topics are looked at from every angle. It would not always be a smooth process, but the results should be solid.