text:
NOVI -- The Christensens, a couple recently found dead in their home in an apparent murder-suicide, seemed like a normal couple, neighbor Matt Sims said Wednesday -- they were even members of a neighborhood euchre group.
"It's just so weird not knowing what made them, or him, trip," said Sims, whose family lives behind the Porter Street home where Lisa Anne Christensen, 55, and Gunar Donald Christensen, 59, were found dead Tuesday morning.
"As far as I know ... a lot of people have been to their house, they've been around them."
Reports that Gunar shot his soon-to-be ex-wife with a shotgun and eventually turned it on himself came as a total shock, said the 22-year-old Sims.
Novi Director of Public Safety David Molloy said the murder-suicide happened in the early morning, while Lisa Christensen was getting ready for a scheduled deposition to determine how to split the couple's assets in their nearly completed divorce.
"It appears she was about to get into the shower," Molloy said. "It looks like (Gunar) was lying in wait in his closet, then went up to her and shot her in the bathroom."
Lisa suffered fatal wounds to her shoulder and abdomen -- wounds that appeared to be from a very close gunshot, Molloy said.
After killing Lisa, Gunar Christensen locked himself in a closet in the master bedroom and turned his .12-gauge shotgun on himself. He suffered one fatal wound to the chest.
Lisa Christensen's son from a previous marriage, Mitchell Weber, 16, was asleep in his room in the home when the shots rang out, Molloy said Mitchell told police he didn't hear the shots because the master bedroom and closet doors were both closed.
The teen's mother was supposed to wake him up, he told officials. She had been to the East Coast driving his sister, Mallory, to Penn State University, where she recently received a scholarship to play soccer. When he woke up and couldn't find his mother, he called her, and got no answer. Police arrived soon after to check on the couple's welfare after they did not appear in court, Molloy said.
Officials said there is no indication Weber was involved in the incident.
While neighbors and family members say they had no idea the relationship between Lisa and Gunar Christensen was so terrible, initial investigations have revealed that Gunar Christensen might have planned to murder his wife and kill himself.
"We got a call from (Gunar's) lawyer ... who got a letter from him postmarked for (Tuesday) saying he no longer needed his attorney's services," Molloy said. "When neither party showed up to the deposition involved with splitting the assets, a welfare check was made."
Molloy said lawyers told him that one of the parties might have been hiding certain assets in the divorce. The husband and wife had each been married previously.
Lisa Christensen's brother and sister, who were at the couple's house Wednesday while restoration workers cleaned up the aftermath of incident, said that Tuesday's events were "senseless and horrible."
Her brother, who asked not to be named, said although he didn't anticipate something so tragic happening, he asked Lisa on a few occasions why she was staying at the house a year after divorce proceedings began for the couple.
"He was never violent, never threatened her through the process. Don't know why she was living here," said Lisa's brother. "She wouldn't have been living here if she would've felt threatened. ... I think he just snapped."
The house had recently been sold, according to a sign on the lawn Wednesday.
Dennis Krzeminski, who lives across the street from the Christensen home said he never noticed anything out of the ordinary with the couple. They would say hello to neighbors, do yard work -- the usual stuff, Krzeminski said -- but usually kept to themselves.
Krzeminski said he was home all morning when the incident happened but didn't hear anything.
Krzeminski said looking back, Gunar Christensen "was a bit more stand-offish."
"(Lisa) was more outgoing than he was," the neighbor said. "(Gunar) was a little bit different -- I'd only see him sometimes sitting on the front porch to smoke ... and sometimes he would play a guitar.
"He wasn't outside hardly at all."
As Novi police and forensic scientists from the Michigan State Police's Northville crime lab continue to investigate the Tuesday slaying, Molloy said anyone with information should call the Novi Police Department at 248-348-7100.
Novi police are working with Northville public schools for grief counseling sessions for the many students in the district who know Mitchell and his sister. A letter will be sent to all parents in the district when a release is completed, Molloy said.
Visitation for Lisa Christiansen will be 3-8 p.m. Friday at the Northrop-Sassaman Funeral Home, at 19091 Northville Road, Northville. For more information, call 248-348-1233.


text:
TWO candidates are going head to head in Wiltshire's police and crime commissioner election as the second and final round of vote counting gets underway
The election used the supplementary voting system – a shortened version of the alternative vote system – meaning electors were given the chance to vote for a first and then a second preference candidate.
Conservative candidate, Angus Macpherson, secured the most first preference votes across Wiltshire as a whole - 28,558 votes - with Labour's Clare Moody in second place with 16,198 votes.
Because no single candidate secured more than 50 per cent of the total first preference votes, this means the top two candidates continue to a second round and all other candidates are eliminated.
The second choice votes of everyone whose first choice has been eliminated are now being counted. Any votes for the remaining candidates will then added to their first round totals.
Whichever candidate has the most votes after these second preferences have been allocated is declared the winner.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
- Debt Payoff Strategies
If you're thinking of reducing your debt load, good job! Luckily, there are a number of strategies for paying off debt that you might consider. However, before starting any debt payoff strategy (or combination of strategies), be sure you understand the terms of your debts, including any penalties for prepayment.
- Spring Cleaning Your Debt
In addition to typical spring cleaning tasks, you may want to take this time to focus on your finances. In particular, now may be as good a time as ever to evaluate your debt situation and try to reduce and/or eliminate any debt obligations you may have. The following are some tips to get you started.


text:
Looking for spark, Marlins bring up Valdespin
MIAMI -- Second base has been an unsettled position for the Marlins, and the organization is now giving Jordany Valdespin a chance to see if he can become the answer.
The Marlins on Saturday selected the contract of Valdespin from Triple-A New Orleans, and the 26-year-old immediately found himself in the starting lineup. He went 1-for-4, singling in the first inning to help set up the Marlins' first run in a 5-3 loss to the Giants.
In a corresponding move, Miami optioned first baseman Justin Bour to New Orleans.
Valdespin has been hot of late, batting .325 in his last 10 games at New Orleans.
"This is a great opportunity to get himself back into the big leagues and revive himself," Marlins manager Mike Redmond said. "Hopefully he can do that and be a big spark for us as well."
In 61 games with the Zephyrs, Valdespin posted a .270 batting average with eight homers and 29 RBIs. He swiped 15 bases and was caught 10 times.
"To have another guy who can run and steal bases is big," Redmond said. "Although being in front of [Giancarlo] Stanton, you have to pick your spots."
The Marlins are surveying the market for a second baseman with speed. They aren't necessarily looking for a quick fix or a rental; they'd like to find someone to lock down the spot for the next few years.
To make room on the 40-man roster for Valdespin, Rafael Furcal (left hamstring strain) was transferred to the 60-day disabled list. Ed Lucas and Donovan Solano have been handling second base. And Derek Dietrich (right wrist strain) is on the disabled list.
Valdespin broke in with the Mets in 2012, and he hit .241 in 94 games as a rookie. Last season, he batted .188 in 66 games for New York.
Valdespin was suspended 50 games on Aug. 5, 2013, for being connected to MLB's Biogenesis investigation. Also with the Mets, he was reprimanded on several occasions, including for not running out ground balls.
The Marlins signed Valdespin to a Minor League contract last Dec. 20, but he did not receive a big league Spring Training invitation.
"He has to prove himself and show the type of player we've all kind of seen glimpses of," Redmond said. "He's here to hopefully give us a spark. He's been swinging the bat well in the Minor Leagues."
Joe Frisaro is a reporter for MLB.com. He writes a blog, called The Fish Pond. Follow him on Twitter


text: Some Like It Hot -- Dodge Introduces Durango Heat February 18, 2011 04:00 PM Designed to complement the performance-tuned Durango R/T, new five-passenger Heat package with the Pentastar V-6 engine delivers 295 horsepower and up to 23 miles per gallon (mpg) Best-in-class 50 cubic feet of storage behind the second row and performance-tuned to thrill anyone who truly loves to drive New Heat package delivers affordable performance with a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of $30,295 (excluding destination charges) Dodge is turning up the heat in the full-size SUV segment, introducing a new affordable performance package for the all-new 2011 Dodge Durango SUV - the Dodge Durango Heat. Designed to complement the performance-tuned Durango R/T, the new Heat package delivers aggressive styling, the high-performing 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with 295 horsepower and a surprisingly affordable price. With a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Retail Price (MSRP) of $30,295 (excluding destination), the Dodge Durango Heat will be available at dealerships across the country in the Spring of 2011. "Durango Heat is about handling performance and a street presence that puts the sport in sport- utility," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Dodge Brand - Chrysler Group LLC. "The unibody rear-wheel-drive (available all-wheel-drive), two-row exclusive seating configuration makes this the lightest Durango model. A world-class double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension make Heat a handling champ that moves out smartly with 295 horsepower, a dual-exhaust, tuned air induction, custom 20-inch Satin Carbon finished wheels while delivering ultimate utility with more storage room at 50 cubic feet than anything it competes with. The Durango Heat also is among the most efficient in its class at 23 miles per gallon on the highway. For the money, there's truly nothing like it on the market." From the outside, the Durango Heat and the R/T have a striking resemblance. Both feature a unique fascia with fog lamps, a color-matched grille and dark headlamp bezels. The color-matched body kit, wheel lips and rear fascia with integrated dual chrome exhaust outlets, give the Heat a lower stance. Built on the Durango's new unibody platform, which is 25 percent stiffer than the Durango it replaces, the five-passenger Heat also shares R/T's performance-biased engineering, including its aggressive suspension tuning, performance steering, unique 20-inch wheels with all-season performance tires (three-season high-performance tires for even greater grip and response also are available), a 20-mm lower ride height, tuned dual-exhaust and a modernized interior that holds drivers in their seats. Where the R/T is powered by the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, the Heat is powered by the new Pentastar V-6 engine. The 3.6-liter V-6 engine is an all-new design, featuring double-overhead camshafts (DOHC) and a high-pressure die-cast aluminum cylinder block in a 60 degree configuration. Contributing to best-in-class V-6 towing at 6,200 lbs. and a top speed of 130 miles per hour, the engine delivers 295 horsepower (216 kW) at 6,350 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. (353 N*m) of torque at 4,500 rpm. The EPA fuel economy miles per gallon (mpg) (City/Hwy) are 16/23 for the rear-wheel-drive model and 16/22 for the all-wheel-drive model. While Heat entices with performance-biased styling and handling, the newest Durango also maintains SUV capability with room for five passengers and 50 cubic feet of storage space-more storage capacity behind the second row than any other five-passenger vehicle on the market- including 5.9 cubic feet of under-floor storage. As in the R/T, Heat comes standard with Uconnect Voice Command and a premium 506 Watt Alpine audio system with 10 speakers, including a subwoofer. Durango Express: $29,195 / $31,195 Durango Heat: $30,295 / $32,295 Durango Crew: $33,195 / $35,195 Durango Crew with CrewLux package: $38,195 / $40,195 Durango R/T: $35,465/$37,865 Durango Citadel: $41,795 / $43,795 (All prices exclude an $850 destination charge.) Back to News


text:
"For those who have a magnetic pull to traveling and a desire to explore, the Master of Arts in International Studies (MAIS) is perfect. The program offers something that most other programs do not, which is a job placement in another country. The Delter-Telfort Business Institute in Shanghai offered me a salary and a housing allowance that allowed me to work and finish my Masters degree. Although I had no prior teaching experience, the summer before you depart to China fully prepared me. The preparation was successful mainly due to the efforts of the wonderful faculty of the MAIS program. The perks do not stop there. Anyone who is in tune with the news knows that China is a country undergoing political and economic transformation. This is most evident in the city where I worked and lived, Shanghai. I was born and raised in New York City, and I could not believe how Shanghai in many ways outdated New York City."
"Furthermore, I would have to say that the bond I developed with my students was not only rewarding but also transformative. I learned to understand my students, which allowed me to accommodate my teaching style to their learning habits. Through my students I learned a lot about Chinese culture, and this is invaluable. The students in China are most welcoming of foreign teachers. In terms of my career, having in my resume the experience of working in China is always a conversation starter in every interview. After the MAIS program, I was given the honor of working for the Permanent Mission of Andorra to the United Nations. I do not think I would have been given this opportunity, if it were not for this program. Also, the research I conducted for the MAIS thesis was challenging and rewarding. Lastly, nothing compares to the friendships I developed through the MAIS program. I met wonderful people who I still keep in contact with."
-Miosotti Tenecora (Cohort 2012) Picture: Xi'an, China ----------
"If you are searching for an enriching experience filled with adventure and delightful surprises go no further. MAIS features a unique approach to education that places students in an environment where their educational goals and their practical work experience are synthesized. Students in the MAIS program are given the opportunity to live abroad in China while pursuing a Masters thesis in one of several disciplines. Once I completed the program in the course of a year, I was able to find a full-time position with a company based in Irvine, CA that specializes in college applications and international philanthropy work in China. Although some of the experiences abroad were challenging at times, the personal relationships and lessons I walked away with gave me a stronger sense of who I was and the direction that I wanted to pursue with my life. I highly recommend MAIS, for its dedicated staff, unique education, elaborate adventures, and the life long memories I will always have. Thanks and Happy Trails!"
All the best,
-Matthew Beccaria (Cohort 8, 2012) ----------
"In May, 2007 when I was 21 years old, I started the MAIS program. Earlier that year I had graduated with my Bachelor's in International Affairs and received my TEFL certification. I could teach abroad with both of these credentials, but I knew I was capable of achieving more. I started Concordia with little knowledge of the MAIS program and curriculum, with the exception of knowing there was an emphasis in education or business and the opportunity to teach in Asia. It is why I joined. Earning my Master's Degree in International Studies, emphasized in education, could only solidify my passion for international edification and make me more desirable to future employees. And it truly did."
"During the year abroad I spent in Shanghai with MAIS, I taught for Scholastic Asia, a franchise of the Scholastic Publishing Company. What I had learned from my previous TEFL training, and the education classes I was taking with the MAIS program, I made the most of my year with Scholastic. And that had its rewards. Scholastic chose me for the front cover of their distribution materials, parents praised me for my zeal and passion in the classroom, and other teachers came to me for advice. At the end of my contract term, I knew my next obstacle was to complete my thesis. I chose to return home for a few months to complete this task. The thesis is a job in itself and I was unable to balance living and working abroad while trying to complete it successfully. Before leaving Shanghai, I attempted to negotiate a new contract with Scholastic. I knew the future opportunities they could offer my career would never reach what I know I am capable of achieving. So I walked away. I walked next door to their competitor, Disney English. I gave them my resume, told them they needed to hire me since I would be an asset to their company.
"Disney English had only been open in Shanghai a few months. It is Walt Disney Publishing Company's new venture on international English education. What I found interesting is that Disney English is not a franchise. It is a recognized branch and legitimate part of the international Walt Disney World Company. To me, that means there are infinite possibilities of accelerating my future career with them. I went home, finished my thesis, graduated from the MAIS program, and applied to come back to Shanghai to work for Disney English. With a Bachelor's and Master's degree in International Studies, a TEFL certification, and a year of teaching experience in Shanghai, I was offered a position. They offered me the Senior Foreign Trainer position, which is considered the second-in-command of a center's academics. When the manager is gone, I am in charge of the academic staff."
"In the last two years Disney English has opened 8 centers in Shanghai and has plans for a handful more. They are looking to expand to cities like Beijing, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Guangdong, and Hong Kong. After that, they are considering other countries they can penetrate like Brazil, Korea, Russia, and Eastern Europe. I had been working with them for roughly 6 months when the opportunity arose to help open Beijing. I chose to apply for the Learning Language Director (a.k.a. Academic Director/Manager) position. With two degrees, two TEFL certifications, 3 years teaching experience, and knowing the ins-and-outs of Disney English, I was a prime candidate."
"In the 3 years since starting the MAIS program and 1 year after completing it, I am proud to say at 24 years old, I am the youngest Director for Disney English. I have been given the responsibility and opportunity to manage an academic team and be part of opening the first Beijing Disney English center. There were obstacles that I had to overcome while I was working on my MAIS course work, and in life that I had to deal with at the same time. There were times when I thought I could not do it and wanted to give up. And there were times when I had to take breaks, reevaluate what I was doing and where I wanted to go."
"At the end of the day, regardless of the hiccups, upsets, and many miscommunications, I would not be where I am and would not have the opportunities I do if I had not continued my education with Concordia and the MAIS program. Find your strengths. Find your passions. Find a need in the world and fill it. Then you will be successful. MAIS made it possible for my passions to be successful and I will be forever grateful. I am in my career job with a successful international company doing what I love. Life is good. Good luck to you and your bright future with Concordia."
-Kimberly N. Griffin '08
Learning Language Director Beijing EC-Mall
Disney English Language Learning ----------
"MAIS in CUI is a unique and pioneer program integrating higher education and field work in China. I was deeply impressed by its practice oriented curriculum, and by the students who are more enthusiastic and realistic, but less romantic or critical in viewing China and working in China than most students I know in the West. The teamwork of the faculty is outstanding and very productive."
-Dr. Thomas Ni
MAIS Faculty and Adviser ----------
"I believe without a doubt that without the MAIS program I would not have stood a slight chance getting in (Santa Barbara District Attorney's Office). The knowledge, training and confidence I gained in China is something invaluable that will continue to influence my life and my career... I want to continue with my research about the Chinese Legal System and Human Rights."
-Cornelia T. Van Tonder '07 ----------
"The MAIS program is certainly one of a kind. It is not often that you find an international program that is located in the country of study. Being an MAIS student has certainly given me a life experience. Having the chance to live, study, and work in China has opened my eyes to the world and I was able to develop myself as a person. You will build a close bond with your Cohort, Dr. Kim and Professor Wyman will become your surrogate parents, and you will create your own group with your Chinese co-workers, students, and/or neighbors. If you work hard, finish assignments on time, and stay positive, the MAIS program will be a very rewarding and exciting adventure."
-Shawntia Key '10 ----------
"I enrolled in the MAIS program for my studies because it offered the unique opportunity to take classes from the professors living in Shanghai while working at a university in China. At Concordia University, it is possible to earn a postgraduate degree while continuing to work, which was very important to me as a mid-career professional. Studying while simultaneously taking courses provided direct access to practice newly learned concepts. Living and working in China is an eye-opening experience that everyone should attempt once in their life."
-Rebecka (Becki) Benedict '10 ----------
"I've recently joined the foreign service as an information management specialist. My training is 5 months long in D.C., and we'll be heading to our first post this coming October (2011), U.S. Embassy Phnom Penh. I first heard about the foreign service thanks to MAIS! While we were in Guangzhou, we had a visit to the consulate and were given a Foreign Service career briefing by the Public Diplomacy officers. It was a great opportunity to get some exposure to a career in the public sector and international relations."
-Tony Lim '05 ----------
"I am back in China, living and working, and that would not be the case without the Concordia program. If you want to be challenged every day and grow as a person, this program can give you the job, the support, and the master's degree while you're living in one of the most dynamic countries in the world. If you have this opportunity, do it and don't look back!"
-Christine Palowitch '07
Teacher Trainer
Scholastic - Asia ----------
"There is nothing like the Concordia MAIS program for getting students kick-started into the booming Chinese economy. My students over the past five years have landed jobs in China at prestigious consulting and accounting firms, the U.S. Embassy, and top universities. Those choosing to return to the U.S. have been shown preference due to their skills, training, and experience dealing with the international economy, particularly in China. The enthusiasm and dedication of our MAIS students is amazing. These talented graduates choose to dedicate a year of their lives living, working and studying in China, a place most have never before visited. Nearly all, upon receiving their Master's degrees, would say it was the most valuable experience in their lives."
-Prof. Roger Philips
MAIS Faculty and Adviser ----------
"It's really nice to finally have a Master's under my belt. It even paid off quicker than I thought when it helped me land a nice job. I'm now working in Saudi Arabia with the Aramco Oil Company as an instructor in their Industrial Training Center in the city of Ras Tanura. I teach technical English to the employees at the refineries and out on the oil rigs in the Persian Gulf. I've been here four months now and it's going really well. I may be here for quite some time."
-Gerald Lakatos '08
Industrial Training Center Instructor
Aramco – Saudi Arabia ----------
"I have been teaching at MAIS since 2008 and working with applicants and students since 2011. MAIS impresses me greatly in that it is a unique program integrating graduate school, overseas employment, TESOL certification, travels, adventures, cultural experience, and networking opportunities in a fast-paced and ever globalized society."
"At MAIS, I have never ceased being amazed and inspired by the discipline, commitment and focus our students have displayed both academically and professionally. When our students are in China, their cultural sensitivity is further honed and their vision toward their future is brought into sharper focus. The MAIS experience helped our students dig deeper into their own potentials. Students learn to improvise, be creative and resourceful when navigating through a new culture. The research opportunity, the teaching, the interaction with the local communities in China, and their pursuit of a meaningful M.A. degree at an accelerated environment, have all contributed to make the MAIS journey an unforgettable one for all who have gone through MAIS and who are eager to start each year."
"I feel proud and blessed assisting the MAIS students in stepping closer to their dreams in life."
-Dr. Yi Schuler
MAIS Associate Director ----------
"Joining this MAIS program has made a big impact on my life experience. I was able to adapt to a totally different culture and learn to live independently out of my comfort zone. I was able to learn the language and use it on a daily basis to get around not only Shanghai, but all around the other China provinces. This MAIS program has given me a chance not only to appreciate what I already have, but also to see how much more there is out there in this world. The benefits of joining this program are that I was able to live abroad, learn the culture and language, make new local and foreign friends, and travel. Traveling was the best part! Besides exploring the different provinces in China, I also traveled through 5-6 different countries during my time there. Joining this program was definitely one of the best decisions I have ever made! Not only did I get to do everything I mentioned above, I also earned my Master's degree! What more can you ask for? I can't get enough of it! I still want to go back to China! Just don't forget that you are there to complete your internship and degree! Study hard, work hard, and play hard!"
-Phuong Vuong '08
Air Export
Phoenix International Freight ----------
"With my work experience in telecommunications industries, logistics, human resources management, managing sales in medical industries, and in the education field, I am able to share my experience as an advisor in project theses of the MAIS program. The students in the program were not only enthusiastic but passionate, eager in their learning and had lots of initiatives, particularly in project theses. The MAIS program itself has a comprehensive coverage from understanding of the Chinese history and culture, learning the fundamentals of the Chinese language to understanding global economics and enterprise coupled with statistical analysis study, allowing students to confidently apply their knowledge to market analysis and business planning for economic success of a global enterprise, and not forgetting students will be well geared for a China-related career."
-Dr. Henry Leong
MAIS Adviser ----------
"Working at a job that would not have been possible had I not worked in China and worked toward a master's degree with Concordia. I am buying parts and planning for a multinational semi-conductor company. I speak Spanish and Chinese every day. Other than the hours behind the computer, I am definitely enjoying it!"
-Patrick Joyce '09
Temecula, CA ----------
"This program allows students to mix theory, research, and personal creativity on a global scale. As advisors, we can assist the students continuing on a path of success. It's a privilege to be a part of this success which translates in any language or career path."
-Prof. Ryan Wright
MAIS Adviser ----------
"The Concordia MAIS Program has helped me to live out a real-life adventure living in China while achieving a master's degree at the same time. It's a multi-tasker's dream come true! After my first year in China, I have clearer defined career goals, sharper personal identity, and a lifetime of laughs and memories made while forging my way through cultural differences. The gem of the program for me has been the thesis process. My research has opened doors for me in professional and personal ways that I never dreamed possible when entering this whirlwind of a program. I have confidence now knowing that when I go into an interview in my future I not only have a competitive Master's degree, but I also have experience living in a multi-cultural environment overseas. Living in China is an everyday adrenaline rush and I cannot think of a better way to gain higher education."
-Jessica Griner '09
English Teacher
Hangzhou Normal University ----------
"The MAIS program gave me the valuable opportunity to step outside my comfort zone and to challenge myself. You will learn new things about yourself you never knew, all while earning your Master's degree and living and working in China. The Chinese culture is unique, vibrant and moving to a tune that is all its own and with Concordia's MAIS program you will be right in the heart of it all! It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will remain with you forever."
-Amy Kao '09
"The MAIS program is an unforgettable experience - from the first summer on-campus to living and working abroad in China. I can honestly say my two years spent in Shanghai were the best years ever. As part of Cohort 4, the program itself was very new, but the faculty and administration for the MAIS program have been wonderful. I have made lifelong friends with classmates and memories that will last forever. This is truly a program that has changed my life and helped define who I am today - confident, strong, and able to tackle any obstacle thrown my way."
Lisa Quach - MAIS '09 ----------
"Find a job you love and you'll never work a day in your life! For only one reason did I leave an excellent paying job and a promotion in the States: China! CUI's MAIS program afforded me the opportunity to actually live what I was reading about in The Economist and The Washington Post. Now, seven years later, I still find myself loving life in China and the Far East. Through self-reliant efforts, I have discovered opportunities, completed assignments, and traveled to countries that my friends and family back home can only imagine."
Kelley G. Lawson, MAIS '08
U.S. Department of State ----------
"'Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Risk taking is the only way to know your true limits. Follow your dreams while you still can and never look back.
'Two roads diverged in the woods, and I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference." According to Education Statistics in 2012, only 8% of the entire U.S. population has a Master's Degree. I moved to China in 2011 and it is one of the best decisions of my life. During my time in Hangzhou, aside from teaching classes at Zhejiang Institute of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering and studying, I also had the opportunity to travel to Malaysia, Singapore, Seoul, Macau, Hong Kong, Cebu, Bangkok, Phuket, Hainan Island, Haikou, Sanya, Harbin, Beihai, Dongxing, Guangzhou, Zhuhai, Shitong, Xiamen, Beijing, Japan and Shanghai ( 7 countries and 20 cities). I traveled more in one year than most people do in a life time and I know how lucky I am. I also completed my Master's Degree in International Business timely.
Without this program, I would not have been able to work and study abroad while meeting the amazing people at Concordia and my students in Hangzhou. Nothing is easy in life and it was definitely not a walk in park, having to work and study at the same time. I'm not going to sugar coat anything and my thesis was the single hardest paper I've ever written. I knew I couldn't give up and persisted on. Failure wasn't an option and I just had to believe in myself. I never gave up. In retrospect and reminiscing back, it was all worth it in the end. There is a light at end of the tunnel and I MADE IT! I want to thanked my friends, Dr. Peters, Dr. Schuler, Dr. Wang, Dr. Kim, my family, especially my boyfriend Nick Pham who never gave up on me. I am very lucky to have the support and encouragement to get me through MAIS program."
Kathy Hoang (cohort 2011)
"The Master of Arts in International Studies from Concordia University was an amazing experience for me personally and professionally. It was challenging to live and work in China. My students at the Zhejiang College of Tourism, where I taught, were fun and often gave me a fresh perspective on life and learning. My coursework helped me to develop my skills and made me a better teacher and leader. In the end, I think that I took away more than I gave. I have life-long friendships and cherished experiences which have changed my life for the good."
-Star Sauce'10
Coordinator, Safehouse International ----------
"China is more than just the tourist spots or the mention of grandiose economic growth. It is the complex inner-workings of social and personal behaviors of its people that made my China experience worthwhile. I took advantage of the online learning management system, learning the inner-workings and applying it to courses at the school I worked at. The tools and resources I have gained at Concordia University were more than enough for me to succeed. Having ambitious classmates in my cohort not only expanded my friendship circle but drove me to complete the thesis and graduate sooner than expected. The enthusiasm and drive we shared among the cohort are simply priceless."
-Garret Vang '10 ----------
"The MAIS program gave me the opportunity to work and study in China. I had a truly unforgettable work, life, and educational experience. I recently graduated, and am still working in China. Dr. Kim, Professor Wyman, and my thesis adviser Dr. Chung have all been like parents to me. Currently I am working at Zhejiang Media and Communications University, and I love China. Younger people looking to enrich their lives, as well as older students such as myself, should consider this opportunity!"
-Frank Merritt '10
Professor, Zhejiang Media and Communications University ----------
"Joining the MAIS program at the University of Concordia, Irvine was both exhilarating and rigorous. Concurrently teaching and taking online graduate courses was challenging, but it taught me to balance my time, prompted me to be organized, and most importantly developed the ability to prioritize - in life as well as in the program. This life-changing experience in China also gave me a new profound outlook on life. I came to appreciate teaching, developed my leadership potential, and improved my communication skills."
"Despite the busy schedule, I was able to enjoy Chinese culture and meet new people. From the beauty of Shanghai's city lights at night to the authentic Chinese street food - it was unforgettable. I found lifelong friends in my MAIS colleagues and co-workers. During my time in China, I became ill and was hospitalized. If not for the help of my MAIS friends and support from Dr. Kim and Prof. Wyman, I would not be where I am today. The MAIS program in China will challenge you; it will also give you a chance to achieve personal growth, build new friendships, and create memories that will last a lifetime."
-Chantear Song '09
Jincai High School International Division ----------
"I was the FIRST student in my cohort completing my Master's thesis with success. All together it took me 14 months to earn my Master's degree.
My year with MAIS in China was rewarding and enjoyable. When I first became aware of this program, I thought it was too good to be true as a Master's degree while living in China was everything I hoped to find after graduating college! When I started MAIS, I never thought I would still be here a year later with friends I'll have for a lifetime.
MAIS was not my first experience studying abroad, but it was the most life-changing one. China is not necessarily an easy country to adjust to, especially coming from a Western standpoint. I learned here that I can adapt to my environment better and quicker, even though I was completely outside of my comfort zone. With the online portion of classes, I further strengthened my work ethic, dedication and independence, which will help me in any career path I may choose. Lastly, MAIS taught me that the world really is our classroom, and there will never be a better education available than the experiences we gain from traveling, studying and working in a drastically different country such as China!"
-Allison Sobol, Cohort 7 (2011) ----------
"I participated in cohort 3 and since then have found my way to Switzerland. I currently work for Oakley (European headquarters), located in Zurich, Switzerland. The MAIS and China experience helped me as it underscored the importance of flexibility and having an open mind to be successful. Living and working in a country like China, still in my opinion the most different culturally and lifestyle-wise than our western culture, required both an open mind to enjoy myself and flexibility to get things done. I currently work as part of a completely international team where we have to consider cultural differences, both internally in the team and externally with sales teams or customers throughout Europe and the Middle East."
– Jonathan E. Cohort (2007) ----------
"Moving to Shanghai, and enrolling in Concordia's MAIS program, was a worthwhile experience. As someone who had been all over the globe (traveled to 58 countries before entering the program, and had lived in parts of China before), I wanted to live and work abroad while obtaining my Master's degree. Concordia University's MAIS program allowed me to both further my studies, while providing me the opportunity to live and work abroad in an exciting environment. Through the program, and through my previous teaching experience, I was able to move to Shanghai and secure a job as a professor at Shanghai University. While the program at times was very challenging (esp. when taking into consideration the demands of work and establishing a social life in a new place), it was also very rewarding. I had a wonderful year living and working in Shanghai, and am currently still living in Shanghai (even after completion of the program). I think that this program, along with the degree you'll receive upon completion, is very unique in that both will be whatever you decide to make of them: if you decide to take full advantage of the opportunity you have, while living in China and completing the program, then the experience will be very rewarding; on the other hand, if you do not take full advantage of the opportunities you are given, then both will be a painstaking experience."
– Josh Burns (Cohort 7, 2011) ----------
"In my opinion, everyone that can should seek an opportunity for full immersion in a foreign country. There is no substitute for the experiences and personal development available through living abroad. If you are hardworking, ambitious, and adventurous, then you are fit for this program. The MAIS program allowed me to expedite the results I was already seeking to accomplish in my life (i.e. rich cultural, business, and language experiences while living in China, Master's Degree, etc.). My story: During my senior year of undergraduate work, I searched for the right program that would allow me to live in China for an extended period of time. I already assumed that time in China would greatly enrich my life and my professional development. I just happened upon this program, and it was like finding buried treasure. In fact, it seemed too good to be true. I had a hard time trusting the program at first for that reason. Now, 18 months later, I can attest to the greatness of the MAIS program, and the sincerity of the faculty responsible for it. The MAIS program significantly enhanced all that I was able to learn and experience while in China. Had I gone on my own, without the resources available through this program, I would have missed out on much of the valuable insights and knowledge of Chinese business that I gained through MAIS. It was also a tremendous blessing to have MAIS faculty acting as a both liaisons and overseers in the selection of the university where both my wife and I taught. Having heard so many horror stories about teaching in China, it was very comforting to have experienced professionals with whom I had developed relationships on my side, heavily involved in securing the best teaching and living environment possible for us. I loved teaching at Zhejiang Chinese Medical University in Hangzhou, and I love the faculty and students there. I still communicate electronically with many. My time in China was priceless, and nobody can ever take that away from me."
– Kevin Albee (Cohort 7, 2011) ----------
"The MAIS program has helped me become a better teacher. I had taught a year in South Korea before starting this program but never had formal classes about education. I wanted to complete my Masters degree while still living overseas. This program was perfect to enable me to live, teach, and study in China, the place I love. I knew before starting this program that God wanted me to live here forever from a previous trip to China. If it weren't for MAIS bringing me for a season to live in Shanghai I wouldn't have become the Shanghai Healing Home Volunteer Coordinator and led two English Corners. I am so thankful for all the opportunities and knowledge this program has brought into my life. I look forward to what lies ahead. Thank you for such an amazing experience and education here in Shanghai."
– Sara Cohort 7 (2011) ----------
"The MAIS program offered me an amazing experience to get my Master's degree while having a year-long adventure in China. Every day I learned something new, whether through my studies, amazing students, or just through daily life in rural China. Nearly all daily activities turned into an adventure, whether trying to figure out the bus system to get to Shanghai, or buying fruit from a local store (which you think would be easy, but turns out that sometimes it's not!). My year in Lin'an (outskirts of Hangzhou, Zhejiang province) made me a stronger, confident and more patient person, teaching me more about myself than I thought possible. At times it was difficult to try and balance my MAIS work, my teaching schedule and still have a personal life. Despite this busy schedule, I made some of the best friends a girl could ask for and have so many memories of our time together. As a professional, I can now go into an interview and know that my multi-cultural experience makes me stand out as an individual. After my year in Lin'an, I am confident I can tackle any challenge I may face."
– Courtney Eads ----------
"The MAIS program was a life changing experience for me. In the past I have had the opportunity to travel and work in many countries but none of those experiences compare to the year I spent in Hangzhou, China. My year was filled with growth, endless adventures, laughs, and memories to last a lifetime. The students I taught at Tourism College of Zhejiang were unlike any other students that I taught in other countries. They taught me so much about their culture, language and about myself, just as much as I taught them. Many of my students' families took me in during holidays and festivals and treated me as though I was a part of their family. Through their hometown visits, I got to travel to cities that I never knew existed and eat the most remarkable homemade Chinese food. I learned the art of "Guanxi" and networked with my students' families which led to relationships with various businesses in Zhejiang Province during my time there and have future plans to return for business someday."
"After completing the MAIS program, I decided to pursue the MAIS/MBA joint degree as well. With two Master's degrees, it has led me to a path with many open doors to pursue business, international education, etc. I feel blessed for the opportunity to have gone to China with the MAIS/MBA program and can't imagine what my life would be like if I hadn't pursued that incredible journey of a lifetime."
– Diana La (cohort 2011)
"I recommend the MAIS program to any student who wishes to globalize their
resume while concurrently earning a higher degree. Immersion into a foreign
culture was intense, educational and rewarding. The course work was
relevant, inspirational and informative, I never dreamed I'd learn so much as
an individual and as a student. The experiential learning approach not only
offered practical teaching experience, but also allows students to practice
new and exciting teaching methods into their classroom. There is a strong
sense of community within the cohort and the support from Concordia staff,
professors and administrators. With dedication and determination, it is
possible to earn your Master of Arts degree in one year. With this degree I
was able to secure a permanent position with Al Yamamah University in
conjunction with Saudi Interlink Language Centers in Riyadh."
- Shawn Yaroch (Cohort 2012) ----------
"CHINA IS BEAUTIFUL and I AM EXCITED TO BE HERE! The university campus that I am teaching at in China is BEAUTIFUL!!!!! I will never forget Concordia's home campus, and the richness that it provides for the MAIS students. Concordia is a powerful school!!!!"
- Dianne R. (Cohort 2013) ----------
"Sometimes you take a journey into the unexpected and when you
complete that journey, it feels as if you can take on the world…which is
exactly what I felt after the completion of the MAIS program. It was a
fulfilling and enriching experience that began in Irvine, California and
that honestly, has yet to end. My time in this program will always be kept
in my heart and mind because it helped me grow not only academically, but
spiritually. I was allowed to further my education while accomplishing my
dream of living in China and learning the language. I was able to research
and work in Shanghai, China's most international city, and meet an
abundance of amazing people; these people ranged from Concordia University
faculty, classmates, work colleagues, and people that I met during my
adventures in Shanghai.
Working in the city was a treat in its own right since I got to
live the life of a Shanghainese person, eat the local delicacies, take the
metro, bargain over prices, and all the other little things that made my
time there enjoyable. MAIS also provided me with employment in an
international school that provided me with immeasurable experience in an
international setting. I got to teach students from all walks of life and
even my coworkers came from different corners of the world; I had the
pleasure of teaching students from Japan, Korea, Italy, Germany, Brazil,
Thailand and I had the pleasure of working with educators from Canada,
Australia, France and more! As you can see, it was an experience that is
Last but not least, I was able to really push myself
academically. I learned, I researched, and I conquered. The MAIS program
aims to make you a creative thinker that can handle anything that is thrown
at you. Research becomes your best friend throughout your year in China and
if you strive for your best, it is exactly what you will achieve. I was
able to find a topic which I became very passionate about because of my
research and it gave me a wonderful sense of purpose. There is no doubt
that my year in this program helped me achieve a professional and personal
growth that would have taken me years to achieve otherwise."
- Ivan Garcia
(cohort 2012)----------
My experience in China through the MAIS Concordia program was really an experience where I learned a lot not only about International Business, Chinese economics, and trade but also a lot about Chinese culture lifestyle and traditions. It was also an excellent year of self-reflection, personal growth and a time where I met new people of varying ethnic and cultural backgrounds including expats and native Chinese students, restaurant owners, and many others.
I strongly believe that all educational institutions should have a study-abroad experience built into their programs. To truly understand the world you need to get outside of your comfort zone and live in another country. You really don't know your strengths or weaknesses until you're challenged. China for me was a total immersion in both culture and lifestyle. Each and every day was an adventure and I had the opportunity not only to educate my students about American culture but to build bridges of understanding between myself and my Chinese students. I was able to visit most of the major Chinese historical sites, but what was more fascinating for me was getting to know people and learning more about their culture, traditions and thoughts. The Chinese community in Hangzhou was extremely polite and welcoming. I was also afforded the opportunity to meet imams at the mosque in Hangzhou who spoke fluent Arabic and Chinese, which for me was something I didn't expect in China. The overall experience was educational at both a professional and a spiritual level where I learned more about myself and also about others.
I am truly thankful to have been a part of the MAIS Concordia experience and definitely would recommend it to my friends and family.
- Saud Inam----------
"Attending to graduate school and coming to China were very challenging and
a life-changing decision. At first, we were uncertain and did not know what
to expect. Still, we decided to take a risk and hope for the best. As we
were searching for jobs online, we found the ad for the MAIS program. We
were intrigued and emailed the school to provide us with more information.
And so our journey began. This video is divided into chapters, which
include our experience in California, living & teaching abroad in China,
traveling, dealing with homesickness, and most of all, making wonderful
friends. We have learned so much through this experience, and we are so
grateful we decided to join this program. We are now serving as an
inspiration to others to join the program and come to China. There is no
better way to know yourself and others, than by traveling and experiencing
the world at another level. As St. Augustine said: "The World is a book,
those who do not travel have only read one page". Hope you enjoy it!"
- Mari and Jose (2013)----------
"Prior to the MAIS program and my experience teaching in Hangzhou, living abroad seemed like such a daunting and impossible task. Not only did I gain incredible teaching, public speaking, curriculum design, and leadership experiences, I also got the opportunity to study Chinese culture first-hand through research. Living in China and traveling during my free time has made me a more resourceful and self-disciplined person. The relationships I have formed with my fellow MAIS classmates is one of my most treasured outcomes of living in a foreign environment together. These friends mean a lot to me, and I know we will stay in touch with each other for the rest of our lives. My experience in MAIS and China has, honestly, given me the confidence to pursue goals that had previously seemed too farfetched."
-Ning Sun (cohort 2012)---------
"The MAIS program is one of the most rewarding and challenging experiences I have ever been through in my life. Concordia University did a good job preparing me for an experience that was to that point, unlike anything I had ever experienced before. After arriving in China, my wife and I faced many challenges, but we always knew that the MAIS staff was available for contact and assistance if necessary. At the second month mark we finally felt settled and comfortable and engaged in experiencing everything Shanghai and the rest of China had to offer. We had a wonderful experience for a year and were able to thoroughly explore China and even other countries in Asia while we were there. Not only will I be able to carry the MAIS degree and professional experiences with me, but I have life-long friends and the wonderful support system of the MAIS staff as well. I would highly recommend the experience to anyone willing to challenge themselves and looking to grow in new ways probably never experienced before."
- Glenn Permar (2012)----------
"I just secured the position Partnership Manager position with the JUMP!
Foundation. They are an educational nonprofit that run experiential
learning programs focused on empowering youth in K-12 schools throughout
China, Southeast Asia, and now the world. It is a young organization, and
I'm really looking forward to the challenge.
The position I secured is actually based in Hangzhou, which is an
incredible stroke of irony and luck it seems. Since I am returning to
Hangzhou, I'd love to offer you and the Concordia program my assistance in
any way, shape, or form, once I get settled back in China in about a month.
The MAIS program has opened so many doors for me that I always hoped I
would have the opportunity to give back. Now, it seems I can.
So if Concordia or MAIS needs any assistance in Hangzhou with anything,
please don't hesitate to call upon me."
- Joshua Gortney, MAIS alumnus----------
"The MAIS program has been a wonderful experience. It's a great way to get into China and earn your graduate degree while gaining hands on experience in one of the most exciting places in the world right now. I really felt the CUI staff's care for each individual in the program. They guide your journey but it's also up to you to get where you want to go. An underrated part of the program, in my experience, is being surrounded by other adventurous and self-starting people. Being in China with your Cohort opens up tons of opportunities, if you have the right attitude and take advantage.
In the 15 months or so in Shanghai I've finished my thesis and MAIS degree, started a business, built a strong professional and social network, joined a competitive basketball team, saw the Rolling Stones live, had pages added to my passport, started a club dedicated to eating xiaolongbao, had tons of fun, and so many other things too. For me, the experience of being able to work and experience China while completing my MAIS degree definitely beat a traditional graduate program in almost every way."
---- Kyle Quinn, cohort 9 (2013)
My MAIS experience can be summed up as uneventful and unforgettable. I could never conceive what the MAIS program truly embodied when I first applied. I was challenged and encouraged to persevere by professors when I wanted to quit, but their faith in me gave me strength. I can never thank Dr. Wang enough, she was a great professor to me when I was a stressed student. Her dedication to the program and students is amazing, because she sees the MAIS student as part of her family. Dr. Wang has left an undeniable impression on my life that I will never forget. Also, I can never forget Dr. Schuler encouraging words when I needed them the most. She believed in me and never doubted my ability when I was filled with doubt. The MAIS program is not only about working and researching in China, but it is about having people there from the beginning to the end. I have had that with Dr. Wang, Dr. Schuler and other MAIS and Concordia team members throughout the program.
Cohort 9
Dorothy Hill, Instructor, Laureate Vocational Saudi Arabia


text:
Moderators: Timko, Fritz, Solty, Booter, Blake_T, Frank Delicious
newyorkmike wrote:cfr katana pro worlds stamp???
Tim Red Beard wrote:weight on First Run Z Nuke Orange $17?
Whiz wrote:Just out of curiosity, are those S-PD protos the christmas stamp or first run stamp?
Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 1 guest


text:
The Path to Consumer Engagement
July 29, 2010
Peggy Loos, director, media and interactive Marketing, The Coca-Cola Company, discussed how The Coca-Cola Company drives consumer engagement for their next generation of billion dollar brands.
Restricted Content
Access to this content item is restricted to:
- ANA Corporate Marketer Members
Please login below or create an account.
You may already be a member. Find out if your company is already an ANA member.


text:
Examples of Alternative Career Paths
Stephanie Chasteen, PhD Condensed Matter Physics, Postdoctoral Fellow, Exploratorium Musem of Science, Art, and Human Perception
Stephanie Chasteen is no ordinary post-doc. She works at the Exploratorium, a world-famous hands-on science museum in San Francisco, doing everything from designing hands-on activities to creating the Exploratorium's SmallTalk podcast on nanotechnology.
Nancy Forbes, M.A.s in Physics and Spanish, Independent Science Policy Consultant and Writer
Nancy Forbes, like many graduate students, left her physics PhD program with a Master's. Unlike most physics students, Forbes also holds degrees in comparative literature and Spanish. How did her broad experiences lead her into a science policy career? And does she regret not finishing the PhD program?
Gregory Jaczko, Ph.D. Physics, Commissioner, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Gregory Jaczko has been working on Capitol Hill since he finished graduate school. He now serves as one of five commissioners of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, in charge of regulating all nuclear materials in the United States. How did this previous AAAS Fellow end up here?
John Krane, Ph.D. Experimental High Energy Physics, Quantitative Financial Analyst, Third Millennium Trading, Chicago
As a physics student, John Krane knew he didn't want to teach. He now works as a "quant" for a trading firm in Chicago. Read on to hear about his career in financial analysis, as well as his advice on going to graduate school for physics.
Sean Mattingly, PhD High-Energy Particle Physics, Dedicated Client Support, Bank of America
Sean Mattingly had every intention of staying in academia. He finished his PhD, did a postdoc and applied for faculty jobs. So how did he end up working in the corporate world for Bank of America?
Moussa Mahgerefteh, PhD in Nuclear Engineering, Nuclear Core Designer, Dept. Training Coordinator, Three-Mile Island Facility, Exelon Corporation
Moussa Mahgerefteh wanted a PhD in physics but opted for nuclear engineering instead, since the job market was wide. Little did he know that the Three-Mile Island accident would occur only shortly after obtaining his PhD. The job market now looks good again and Mahgerefteh sees a bright future for nuclear power.
André Moreau, PhD Physics, Senior Research Officer, National Research Council Canada, Industrial Materials Institute
André Moreau works halfway between industry and academia as part-scientist and part-manager. He advises obtaining a broad skill set and believes networking and learning how to be a good speaker are two great skills to have.
Thomas J. Richards, PhD in Experimental High-Energy Physics, Retired, after 34 years at Caterpillar Inc.
Tom Richards started thinking about a career in industry while a graduate student in high-energy particle physics. He discusses his preparation for an industry job and his transition to a job at Caterpillar, which became a long and rewarding career in R&D. Richards' points out that "Ph.D. physicists possess many outstanding attributes [and] I suggest that they should build on them to maintain unique and valuable skills not readily found in others."


text:
President Barack Obama made good on the promise of his second inaugural address Thursday by joining the fight to overturn California's ban on same-sex marriage. Having declared that marriage equality is part of the road "through Seneca Falls and Selma and Stonewall," we can't imagine how he could have sat this one out.
The administration's brief to the Supreme Court was a legally and symbolically important repudiation of Proposition 8, the 2008 voter referendum that amended California's constitution to forbid bestowing the title of marriage on a union between two people of the same sex — a right the California Supreme Court had found to be fundamental under the state constitution.
Like the arguments made by the lawyers for those who seek to overturn Proposition 8, and by a group of prominent Republicans earlier this week, the government's brief says any law attempting to ban same-sex marriage must be subjected to heightened scrutiny because it singles out a class of Americans, historically subject to discrimination, for unequal treatment.
The brief said California's civil unions law provides the rights and protections of marriage, so Proposition 8's denial of the designation of marriage "does not substantially further any important governmental interest."
The government made mincemeat of the argument that same-sex couples threaten "traditional" marriage. "Petitioners' central argument is that Proposition 8 advances an interest in responsible procreation and child-rearing because only heterosexual couples can produce 'unintended pregnancies' and because the 'overriding purpose' of marriage is to address that reality by affording a stable institution for procreation and child-rearing," the brief said. "But, as this court has recognized, marriage is far more than a societal means of dealing with unintended pregnancies."
Proposition 8, it said, neither promotes opposite-sex parenting nor prevents same-sex parenting. In any case, "the overwhelming expert consensus is that children raised by gay and lesbian parents are as likely to be well adjusted as children raised by heterosexual parents."
The legal analysis advanced by the Obama administration leads inexorably to the conclusion that all attempts to ban same-sex marriage are inherently unconstitutional. But the administration stopped short of declaring that truth, recognized earlier in the week even by the Republicans' brief. In fact, the administration said the court need not consider the constitutionality of marriage bans beyond the context of this particular scheme.
We don't know why the administration did not take that step. Perhaps it was to allow Obama to go on asserting that the issue of same-sex marriage should generally be left up to the states. We hope the justices recognize the broader truth that the Constitution does not tolerate denying gay people the right to wed in any state.
— New York Times editorial


text:
Dear readers, customers and SWISS fans
Another year is drawing to a close. A good opportunity to say thank you very much! We thank you for your input, support, interesting discussions, constructive criticism, commendations and everything else. It is a huge pleasure for us to work with you! Let's keep up the good spirit for a great 2012.
Important information
Please note that our Social Media Team will enjoy some days off and therefore will not be available during the next few days. We will be back at work on 3 January 2012. We thank you for your understanding and are looking forward to renewing interaction with you in 2012!
A date to remember
As we will very soon reach the big milestone of 100,000 Fans, we are planning a big surprise on 4 January 2012. Save the date in your agenda and be ready for the celebration.
Not yet a fan? You are urged to become one before the 4 January 2012 by hitting "I like" on www.facebook.com/FlySWISS.
We wish you and your loved ones a happy festive season as well as a great start to the New Year!
Best regards,
Alex, Christian, Parand and Mathias (who is not on the picture as he is already on vacation)
SWISS Social Media and Online Marketing Team


text:
AvePoint is a global technology company and proven software leader. Since its founding in 2001, AvePoint provides enterprise-class governance and infrastructure management solutions for Microsoft SharePoint. Propelled by its SharePoint-exclusive research & development team, AvePoint helps more than 10,000 customers â€" including many Fortune 500 companies and government agencies â€" meet their specific business objectives utilizing SharePoint. AvePoint, Inc. is headquartered and maintains its principal operational center in Jersey City, NJ, with wholly owned operational centers in the USA, Canada, Australia, South Africa, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, Japan, Singapore, and China. AvePoint is a Microsoft Gold Certified Portals and Collaboration Partner and Gold Certified ISV Partner as well as a US Government GSA provider via strategic partnerships.
The Job:
The Regional Marketing Specialist is responsible for building regional marketing strategy, executing marketing campaigns, and producing all internal, external and virtual events for the Western Region of North America and global Storage Optimization Partners.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
|Santa Clara, CA
United States
|Web Site:
|3 Second Street
Suite 202
Jersey City, NJ 07311
United States
Support AvePoint with Social Media services
Find more Regional Marketing Specialist jobs


text:
Hey bro. If you could get me that Riggs promo asap i would appreciate it!
Hey how goes the promo between you and Dave? Any idea when I'll get it?
I knew you could do it!
Do your promo this week...
Or you'll find yourself on jobber island!
You too bud!
You love me gidds!
Hey man, can you get me your HWA promo by tomorrow at the latest?
Death is sending you his promo first now. You have until tomorrow
Go read the ICW thread. You'll see I don't need one from JJ or Kryp, but your welcome to do one if you want
Monday is the date, but if i get everyone's promos, it'll go up sooner
Black Ninja!
Senior Member
Super Member
Normal Member
© 2011 eWrestlingNews, All Rights Reserved.


text:
Video: Choosing an HDTV
Julie Govan is the Brand Manager at Crutchfield, and has been writing about consumer electronics since 1999. Her areas of expertise include home theater, surround sound, digital cameras, and HDTV. In her spare time, she also writes book reviews and fiction. She earned a B.A. in English from Davidson College, and went on to receive a master's degree in English literature from the University of Virginia.
More from Julie Govan
Steve Kindig has been an electronics enthusiast for over 30 years. He has written extensively about home and car A/V gear for Crutchfield since 1985. Steve is also a volunteer DJ at community radio station WTJU, where he is a regular host of the American folk show "Atlantic Weekly," as well as the world music program "Radio Tropicale."
More from Steve Kindig
Heads up!Welcome to this article from the Crutchfield archives. Have fun reading it, but be aware that the information may be outdated and links may be broken.
Confused by HDTV specs and lingo? Get a grip on the key features to consider when choosing an HDTV, including screen size, TV type, resolution, and contrast ratio.
Video Transcript
Steve: Hi. I'm Steve.
Julie: And I'm Julie. We're here in the Crutchfield studio to talk about what you need to know when choosing a new TV.
Steve: You can watch this video from start to finish or go to crutchfield.com/chooseTV to learn about the topics you're interested in.
TV Screen Size
Julie: Now the saying "bigger is better" is actually a pretty good guideline when you're deciding on TV screen size. Our experience has been that in most situations, you should go with the largest screen your room, your viewing distance, and your budget will accommodate. That's because while we occasionally hear people wishing their TV screen was bigger, we pretty much never hear them wishing it was smaller.
So how do you know how large a screen to get for your room? The key is the relationship between the TV's screen size and the distance you'll be sitting from it. To help people find a good screen size for their room, we use a loose formula to recommend a viewing distance range. Here's how it works: We suggest you sit at a distance that is 1.5 to 2.5 times your TV's screen size for the best picture. So if you're considering a 50" HDTV, your ideal viewing range would be between 6-1/4 feet and 10-1/2 feet. If that sounds really close, keep in mind that you can sit closer to an HDTV and still get an awesome picture. This is especially true if you mostly watch stuff that's in high definition, like Blu-ray discs and HDTV. Then, you can try sitting at the closest end of that range. You can find out more about choosing screen size at crutchfield.com/screensize.
LCD vs. Plasma
Steve: Both LCD and Plasma TVs will give you a bright, detailed picture, and of course they also have a slim design that allows them to be set on a stand or hung on a wall.
Plasmas are known for their smooth motion, rich colors, and impressive contrast levels. If you're considering a plasma, there are two things to keep in mind. First, they're not available in smaller screen sizes, just 42" and larger, so they're generally not a good fit for small spaces like a kitchen. Second, some plasma screens may reflect room lights. This isn't going to be a problem in many rooms, but if you have a room with a lot of lamps and windows you'll want to turn the lights down and pull the curtains.
So how do you know if a plasma is right for you? If you want a movie theater like experience in a dim or darkened room you'll appreciate plasma's fluid motion and true to life color.
As we've said, LCD TVs also offer a bright, clear picture, plus many LCDs have anti-glare screens that cut way down on room reflections, so they're good for brighter rooms. However, some LCDs don't have quite the same richness of color and deep contrast as plasma. Overall, LCDs are good all purpose TVs. They offer the widest range of sizes and look good in bright settings, so they can work well in any room, plus some top of the line LCDs give you smooth, plasma like motion. To learn more about plasma and LCD TVs you can visit crutchfield.com/LCDvsPlasma.
HDTV Resolution
Julie: TV makers use picture resolution numbers like 720p or 1080p to describe how sharp the picture is on their HDTVs. That is the amount of picture information a TV can display. Now, throwing around these numbers can make this topic seem pretty complicated, but the stuff you really need to know isn't hard, so here goes.
Today's digital TVs create their pictures using a grid of dots called pixels. Generally, more pixels mean a sharper picture. So an HDTV with top of the line 1080p resolution can show a more detailed picture than an HDTV with 720p resolution. You may be wondering if they're both high definition. Will I really see a difference? Chances are you're going to spot it. If your TV only has 720p screen resolution, but you're watching a 1080p Blu-ray movie, it's kind of like trying to shove ten pounds of sugar in a five pound bag. Your TV has to throw away some detail to fit that 1080p image on the screen. But with a 1080p screen resolution you can see every type of high-def signal without losing anything. That extra detail is especially visible on today's larger screens. That's why we usually recommend a 1080p TV for your main viewing area where you're likely to have the largest screen in your house.
Now when it comes to the resolution of video signals as opposed to screen resolution, there are just a couple of things you need to know. First, the "p" in resolutions like 720p and 1080p stands for progressive, while the "i" in resolutions like 1080i stands for interlaced. The main thing to remember here is that a progressive signal has twice as much picture information as an interlaced signal with the same resolution and generally looks a little more solid and stable, with on screen motion that's a little more fluid.
Second, although you will find standard definition 480p TV signals and high definition 720p and 1080i TV signals, you may be surprised to learn that there aren't many 1080p broadcasts available. Right now your main source for 1080p content is actually high definition Blu-ray discs. For more information on TV resolution see crutchfield.com/HDresolution.
TV Contrast Ratio
Steve: Contrast ratio measures the difference between the brightest whites and the darkest blacks that a TV can produce. The higher a TV's contrast ratio, the better it will be at showing distinct details especially in the darkest areas of the screen. Now you might see contrast ratios ranging from 5,000:1 to 5,000,000:1. Now if you're shopping for a TV it might seem obvious to just compare the contrast specs between TVs, and buy the one with the highest contrast ratio. But actually you need to keep two things in mind when comparing these numbers.
First of all, you'll find that some TVs list two different contrast ratio specs. Static contrast ratio measures the difference between the brightest and darkest images a TV can produce simultaneously. Dynamic contrast ratio measures those same differences over time, so that number is always much higher. For example, a TV with a static contrast ratio of 3,000:1 may have a dynamic rating of 100,000:1 so make sure you're comparing apples to apples.
Second, there is no agreed upon industry standard for measuring either type of contrast ratio, and measurements of dynamic contrast ratio are especially varied. While static contrast ratio is a more real world measurement, there are still likely to be differences in how that number is calculated across different brands. The bottom line: The contrast ratio spec is most useful when you're comparing different TV models from the same manufacturer. Just don't rely on it as the most important factor when assessing picture quality. You can learn about other HDTV terms and technologies at crutchfield.com/chooseTV.
We hope we've been able to answer some of you questions about HDTV.
Julie: You can find lots more info at crutchfield.com/HDTV.
Steve: Or you can always call our experts at 1-800-555-9408.


text:
Ambrisentan in Patients With Porto-pulmonary Hypertension A Multicenter Open Label Trial (Portopulm)
- Full Text View
- Tabular View
- No Study Results Posted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
This is an Open Label, Multicenter, pilot clinical trial to assess the efficacy and safety of an oral selective Endothelin Receptor Antagonist (ambrisentan) in patients with portopulmonary hypertension.
Preliminary evidence suggests that ambrisentan is safe and effective in patients with portopulmonary hypertension. The goal of therapy for these patients is to improve symptoms of dyspnea and to improve pulmonary hemodynamics to a mean pulmonary artery pressure <35 mm Hg in order to make patients eligible for liver transplantation. Therefore, the primary endpoints for this study will include 6 minute walk distance (6MWD) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR).
Eligible subjects will receive 5 mg ambrisentan once-daily for the first 4 weeks. After the initial 4-week period, investigators will increase study drug dose to 10 mg once daily (both 5 mg and 10 mg doses are FDA approved). If 10 mg is not tolerated in the opinion of investigator, then the investigator may decrease the dose back to 5 mg once daily. Primary outcome is a change in both the 6MWD and in PVR from baseline to Week 24. Subjects will be monitored with liver function tests (LFT) every 2 weeks for the first 8 weeks, then every 4 weeks thereafter. These safety laboratory tests may be performed at a local phlebotomy laboratory or at the Investigator clinic. In addition, the Investigator will assess each subject for safety and efficacy at Week 4, Week 12, and Week 24. Following Week 24, subjects will be assessed for safety and efficacy every 12 weeks. Patients will be followed for a total of 1 year. After 1 year, if the Investigator feels that continuing the treatment will be beneficial to the patients, they will be provided with ambrisentan by Gilead Pharmaceuticals, free of charge.
|Portopulmonary Hypertension
|Drug: Ambrisentan
|Study Type:
|Study Design:
|Intervention Model: Single Group Assignment
Masking: None (Open Label)
Primary Purpose: Treatment
|Official Title:
|Ambrisentan in Patients With Porto-pulmonary Hypertension A Multicenter Open Label Trial
- Change in PVR [ Time Frame: from baseline to Week 24 ]Change in PVR from baseline to Week 24 for all patients (using cardiac output [CO] measured by the thermodilution method and reported as percent difference from baseline).
- 6 Minute Walk Distance [ Time Frame: Change from baseline to Week 24 ]Change from baseline in 6MWD at Week 24 for all patients. (difference measured in meters).
|Study Start Date:
|March 2010
|Estimated Study Completion Date:
|September 2017
|Primary Completion Date:
|October 2016 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)
|Assigned Interventions
Open Label Ambrisentan
Drug: Ambrisentan
Ambrisentan once-daily in the morning with or without food. The adult dose selected for this study will be 5 mg for the first 4 weeks. After the initial 4 weeks the dose will be increased to 10mg (available doses are 5, and 10 mg) based on tolerance safety. Subjects will remain on 10mg until they complete the study. Dose adjustments may be made based on side effects.
Other Name: Letairis
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|18 Years and older (Adult, Senior)
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
Inclusion Criteria:
Subjects need to fulfill all of the following 4 criteria:
- Evidence of portal hypertension (by hemodynamic measurement, or by Doppler flow of portal circulation, or by clinical evidence of portal hypertension such as esophageal or gastric varices, as evidenced by prior upper endoscopy).
Evidence of pulmonary arterial hypertension by right heart catheterization (all three criteria need to be present) Right heart catheterization may have been performed up to 30 days prior to screening
- Mean PAP (pulmonary artery pressure) >25 mm Hg, and
- PVR (pulmonary vascular resistance) >240 dynes/s/cm5, and
- TPG (transpulmonary gradient = meanPAP -PAWP) >12 mm Hg
- Baseline AST, ALT < 5 times the upper limit of normal, total Bili < 3.0 mg/dl, and mild liver impairment with Child -Pugh class A or B
- Ages 18 years and above
Exclusion Criteria:
- Presence of any other etiology of pulmonary arterial hypertension (HIV, connective tissue disease, sickle cell, left heart failure, chronic thromboembolic PH, etc)
- Treatment with prostacyclins, other ERAs, or PDE5 inhibitors within 30 days of enrollment.
- Moribund state or anticipated death within 1 month.
- AST or ALT ≥ 5 times upper limit of normal
- Total bilirubin ≥ 3.0 mg/dl
- Significant lung disease (obstructive lung disease with FEV1 < 1L, or FEV1/FVC <50%; or restrictive lung disease with Total Lung Capacity < 60% predicted). PFTs may have been performed up to 6 months prior to enrollment.
- Pregnancy
- Age <18 years
- Child -Pugh class C
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01224210
|United States, California
|UCSD Medical Center
|La Jolla, California, United States, 92093
|United States, Florida
|Mayo Clinic Florida
|Jacksonville, Florida, United States, 32224
|United States, Massachusetts
|Tufts Medical Center
|Boston, Massachusetts, United States, 02111
|United States, North Carolina
|University of North Carolina
|Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States, 27599
|United States, Ohio
|The Ohio State University Medical Center
|Columbus, Ohio, United States, 43221
|United States, Texas
|UT Southwestern Medical Center
|Dallas, Texas, United States, 75390
|Principal Investigator:
|Ioana Preston, MD
|Tufts Medical Center
|Responsible Party:
|Tufts Medical Center
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|NCT01224210 History of Changes
|Other Study ID Numbers:
Ambrisentan Portopulm Study
|Study First Received:
|October 18, 2010
|Last Updated:
|December 20, 2016
|Individual Participant Data (IPD) Sharing Statement:
|Plan to Share IPD:
Keywords provided by Tufts Medical Center:
portopulmonary hypertension
portal hypertension
esophageal or gastric varices
right heart catheterization
transpulmonary gradient
Endothelin Receptor Antagonist
pulmonary hemodynamics
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
Hypertension, Pulmonary
Vascular Diseases
Cardiovascular Diseases
Lung Diseases
Respiratory Tract Diseases
Endothelin Receptor Antagonists
Molecular Mechanisms of Pharmacological Action
ClinicalTrials.gov processed this record on September 21, 2017


text:
Part of the reason Donovan McNabb struggled through last season with the Minnesota Vikings was tied to the team questioning his conditioning and work ethic on and off the field. As a 35-year-old free agent looking to latch on with his fourth NFL team this summer, he is doing his best to change that perception.
ESPN filmed some of the things McNabb was doing to fine-tune his game. Working with quarterback guru George Whitfield Jr.—known for his tutelage of the Pittsburgh Steelers' Ben Roethlisberger and Carolina Panthers' Cam Newton—McNabb was taking to southern California beaches to refine his throwing motion. In the process, McNabb also showed off a slimmer beach body.
"I'm in great shape," McNabb said on ESPN. "I've dropped 15, 20 pounds."
He also told the network that the issue is no longer how big he is, but rather refining the mechanics that go with his strong arm.
McNabb went 1-5 as the Vikings' starter last season, before the team turned over the job to rookie Christian Ponder in October.
In December, McNabb was released, hoping to help out a team that had an injured starter. One of those teams, his hometown Chicago Bears, decided not to add him as a short-term fill-in for Jay Cutler.
Before McNabb can get a shot to stick with a team in 2012—which his former coach with the Philadelphia Eagles, Andy Reid, believes he deserves—he must also prove he's OK being a No. 2 behind a younger quarterback.
"He looks physically good. He looks like he could play tomorrow," Reid told the NFL Network in recommending McNabb to his potential next employer.
Since leaving Philadelphia, in both Washington and Minnesota, McNabb was looked at as a starter. Considering his age and his other recent issues, McNabb will need to embrace a mentor's mind-set so he can be an asset to a team when he is not playing.
McNabb and Reid are right; he is physically capable of playing quarterback. For him to translate that into a job, McNabb must prove that he is willing to show the same commitment to other aspects of the game.


text:
In autumn, it's an allergic onslaught. Ragweed and molds are in procreating mode, filling the air with nasty pollens and spores. Allergic Living magazine examines the season's biggest offenders, and offers tips to keep the sneezing, watery eyes and general misery at bay.
Of the sources of autumn allergy misery,ragweed is by far the worst. It is the most common cause of seasonal allergies at this time of year and it's everywhere. In the one year a ragweed plant lives, it will produce as many as one billion grains of pollen that can be carried by the wind up to 650 kilometres (400 miles) away. Giant and common ragweed are found across North America (though less commonly on the coasts), with the prime blooming season running from late August until the first frost kills off these adaptable plants.
Other Weeds
Though ragweed is the worst offender, others can be problematic for those with allergies:
White Cockle (Silene pratensis) – Grows up to a metre tall, with oblong leaves that are 2 to 10 cm long (1 to 4 inches) and 2 cm (1 inch) wide. White flowers open in the evenings; a prolific seed producer.
Cow Cockle (Vaccaria pyramidata) – Also known as China cockle, this weed has pretty bright pink flowers and bluish-green leaves. Height can reach 60 cm (2 feet).
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) – Perennial; grows between 0.5 to 2 metres (1.5 to 6.5 feet), with a slightly hairy stem that is often reddish-brown. Leaves are dark green on top and silvery underneath; it gives off a sage-like aroma.
Curled Dock/Narrow-leaved Dock (Rumex crispus L) and Broad-leaved Dock (Rumex obtusifolius L) – Long, dark green leaves with wavy edges form a base for a metre-long stem with clusters of green flowers.
Amaranth/Pigweed (Amaranthus) – a family of annual weeds that share similar characteristics: alternating oval-shaped leaves, green flower clusters and smooth stems. Prostrate Pigweed grows along the ground while Redroot Pigweed and Green Amaranth grow upright.
Lamb's Quarters (Chenopodium album L) – An annual with bluish-green leaves that grows up to 2.5 metres (8 feet) high on stems with purple or red blotches. Flowers are small (up to 3 mm) green petal-lesspods with a blue tinge.
Russian Thistle (Salsola kali L) – Thin, spiky leaves sprout from multiple branches that are often striped with red. Purple-tinged stems grow to more than 1 metre (about 4 feet) tall, which dry out and break off when mature, forming "tumbleweeds" that spread seeds.
Plantain (Plantago major L) – Long, narrow flower clusters (7 to 30 cm/2.5 to 11.5 inches in length) hold numerous greenish-white flowers with wind-distributed pollen. Plant grows to 60 cm (2 feet) high, with smooth, spade-shaped leaves.
Mold can be found anywhere it's damp, including in piles of decaying plant matter, composters, gutters, rotting wood (like those porch steps you meant to fix) and inside the house in basements, bathrooms and laundry rooms. Several types of mold cause allergy symptoms, and many of them thrive both indoors and out, including Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Panicillium, Epicoccum, Fusarium and Bipolaris. Your allergist can test you for sensitivity to the different types, though all are hard to avoid completely.
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), the weather plays a large role in how badly a mold allergy will flare. The damper the conditions, the more mold there will be.
How Mold Behaves
Mold allergen is spread on the wind in the form of spores, much like the lighter plant pollens. However, unlike weeds, which are generally destroyed by the first good cold snap, many molds simply become dormant over the winter, reappearing in the spring in soggy organic matter such as piles of mulch. During drier summer months, the mold allergic person's symptoms wane, only to resurface in the fall with more rain and dropped leaves on the ground.
Inside, basements are a fungus's best friend. With damp walls, leaky foundations, storage boxes full of paper, improper insulation and carpeting, the subterranean level can be the perfect breeding ground. That "musty" basement smell is a dead giveaway that mold has moved in.
Next Page: What can you do?


text:
Mail: Thanks for helping Aiden
Brewer at the Legislature: Mob rule
More opinion
Robertson and Delsing re-elected chair, vice chair of NWB
Goat Expo set first October weekend
More Ag News
The North Platte City Council was introduced Monday to a preliminary $26.6 million budget for the next fiscal year, up just a little (1.2 percent) from the $26.3 million budget this year.
Hawks said the carryover would raise the reserve fund from $200,000 to $752,241.
Hawks called it a very workable budget with a lot of things that are ongoing.
Most importantly, we try to get the most out of every dollar and work on growing the contingency fund, he said.
Hawks said auditors have repeatedly advised the city to build cash reserves, and he hopes to keep the contingency fund around $750,000 every year.
Hawks said city sales tax revenue is projected to rise by $200,000 next year, from $7.4 million to $7.6 million. Revenue from the state should increase too, from an increase in Highway Trust Fund money.
Hawks said property tax revenue is expected to rise about 4 percent, to $3.6 million, up from $3.45 million.
Revenues are increasing at the city rec center, helping to cover costs and allowing the citys contribution to the recreation center to decrease by $8,000 in the coming year.
The Iron Eagle Golf Course is not in any better financial condition, according to the budget.
Operating expenses are projected to increase by 11.04 percent, to $522,088. But, the clubhouse operates on its own, separate budget and expenses there are down by 23.5 percent, to $221,650. Some clubhouse savings come from fewer employees.
The costs of maintaining the grass and greens at Iron Eagle are considerable, and Councilman Tim Barrett asked if the golf course managers use the purchasing power of the city for such supplies as fertilizer and equipment.
It was generally agreed that joint purchasing of supplies should be explored, but taking care of a golf course is different that parks, because different kinds of supplies are needed.
The preliminary budget also includes a 1.8 percent cost-of-living raise for city employees, as well as step performance raises for those who merit it.
Its incumbent on us to try to achieve that, to keep those current and try to keep those (raises) where they need to be, Hawks said.
Councilman Brook Baker asked if it really makes sense to raise salaries and then raise property taxes to pay them.
Baker said, Here, well raise your pay, but raise your taxes and take it right back.
Barrett expressed disagreement with the step raises, as he did a year ago.
I tried to talk about this several times last year but no one would listen to me, Barrett said. If we can keep expenditures under the projected 2013 budget now, why cant we make it (lower taxes) now?
Barrett cited fiscal troubles in other government agencies, and said there are a lot of places that are not giving their employees raises, including the federal government.
Barrett added that this is not because he does not feel employees deserve raises.
Public safety and public service (police, fire, streets, sanitation, parks and city shops) get the biggest parts of the annual budget -- standing at 74% of the new budget.
The council plans another budget work session at 6 p.m. Wednesday, and if necessary, a third budget session is set at 6 p.m. Thursday.
A public hearing on the budget is tentatively set Sept. 3 in the city council chambers, starting at 7:30 p.m.
The budget is slated to be finalized and adopted two days later -- at a special council meeting on Sept. 5.
Flatrock Publishing, Inc.
1300 E 4th St., Suite F
North Platte, NE 69101