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Bob Moon: The new TV season kicks off tonight with some very glossy new shows. Just wait a commercial minute, though: Aren't audiences shrinking, along with ad dollars? In spite of, or perhaps because of that, the networks are spending big on their line-ups.
Here's Marketplace's Stacey Vanek Smith.
Stacey Vanek Smith: From NBC's mysterious new drama "The Event" to CBS's revival of "Hawaii Five-0," to the tabloid-tacular new season of Dancing with the Stars -- featuring Bristol Palin and Jersey Shore's The Situation -- this season's new line-up is impressive, and expensive, says Bill Carroll with Katz Television Group.
Bill Carroll: The shows are really bringing the competitive level to a new high.
Networks are losing audience to cable channels, mobile devices and the Internet. Katz says this season is a reminder that there's still big money in TV and that nothing brings in the numbers the networks do.
Carroll: Even if viewers watch on their TiVo or their iPad, it starts on broadcast television.
Porter Bibb: This is the last gasp of network television.
That's Porter Bibb with Media Tech Capital Partners.
Bibb: The networks are spending unconscionably in an attempt to try to stave off the continuing erosion of network audiences.
Bibb says consumers want to watch shows when they have time -- on their DVRs or online, via Hulu or Netflix. And Apple and Google are both poised to unveil their TV devices. Bibb says throwing money at special effects, all-star casts and marketing campaigns is all the networks have got right now.
Bibb: That's what you do if you're running a business and you haven't got an answer to the new environment.
Still, Bibb says, the expensive new line-ups could pay off. Bibb agrees high-quality scripted shows are exactly what people will pay to watch on their DVRs, iPads and phones.
I'm Stacey Vanek Smith for Marketplace.


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subset: commoncrawl


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4,000 animal welfare breaches in two years, reports Bureau
British farm animals are being subjected to needless pain and distress as they are slaughtered, a study from the Bureau of Investigative Journalism has revealed.
Data provided by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) showed that vets and hygiene inspectors have reported over 4,000 severe breaches of animal welfare regulations over the past two years – or around six breaches each day. Instances of violation include chickens being boiled alive and trucks of animals suffocating or freezing to death.
Thousands of animals each year are subject to unavoidable suffering from regular breakdown on production lines, equipment failures and poor procedures in abattoirs, the study showed. Acts of cruelty by individuals were also documented, alongside equipment failure.
Animals have been presented for slaughter in unfit condition, with some being too weak to stand, while others were diseased or suffered from fractures or open wounds. Failures in stunning procedures also allowed some animals to regain consciousness before being killed.
A total of 9,511 animal welfare breaches were documented by veterinarians and meat-hygiene inspectors working for the FSA inside abattoirs between July 2014 and June 2016.
The breaches fall into three categories. category 2 refers to a low-risk and isolated instance, while category 4 is the most serious and means that animals were subjected to "avoidable pain, distress or suffering".
Almost half of the incidents – 4,455 – constituted category 4 breaches.
"There is no place for animal cruelty at any stage of farm production – including the slaughterhouse," Neil Parish, chairman of the House of Commons select committee for the environment, food and rural affairs told the Bureau of Investigative Journalism.
"This country prides itself on having some of the highest animal-welfare standards in the world. It's vital the authorities crack down on any abuses and ensure there is zero tolerance for any mistreatment of animals when slaughtered."
Analysing data going back to April 2011, the bureau revealed there had been 16,370 breaches of animal regulations, 6,241 of which were category 4. The majority of incidents took place when the animals were transported from farms to abattoirs.
From 2014 to 2016, 4,005 category-4 incidents were transport-related, 130 reflected problems during stunning or killing, and 320 fell under the category of 'other'.
Violations include a cow being "violently slammed" against a wall following an argument by two workers, an abattoir employee beating three bulls with a wooden stick and electric prod, and a haulier hitting and kicking cattle during unloading – an act which was caught on CCTV.
Other incidents saw sheep being grabbed by the wool and ears or being dragged by the horns, and pigs being lifted by their ears and tails.
There were also cases where the animal was not stunned at all before slaughter, and instances of chickens and pigs being immersed in tanks of scalding water while still alive.
There have been almost 600 instances during the period under review of animals arriving at slaughterhouses already dead. One example saw 574 chickens from a load of 6,072 dead on arrival due to overheating.
Despite the high death toll, this counts as one welfare breach.
Aside from mistreatment of animals, the data showed that these practices could result in the spread of campylobacter – the most common cause of food poisoning in the UK.
Although larger abattoirs are required to have a dedicated animal welfare officer, there have been claims that there is a staff shortage, resulting in ongoing breaches.
It has also been claimed that category-4 breaches could be the result of unavoidable accidents rather than deliberate abuse, an argument the RSPCA has been keen to rebut.
"Such incidents of severe pain, distress and suffering are wholly unacceptable and completely avoidable," said Marc Cooper, head of farm animals at the RSPCA. "If they're avoidable, that means they shouldn't be happening at all – you shouldn't be seeing one. You would hope that strong enforcement action would be taken."
Many pressure groups are calling for CCTV surveillance to be made mandatory in all slaughterhouses.
A report commissioned by Animal Aid showed that independent monitoring of CCTV in English abattoirs is both 'cost-effective and feasible'.
"Over and over again, we see the consequences of a toothless, unmotivated regulatory regime that fails animals when they are at their most vulnerable," said Isobel Hutchinson, head of campaigns at Animal Aid.
"Meaningful protection for animals from the violence and incompetence that has repeatedly been exposed can come only from mandatory, independently monitored CCTV in all slaughterhouses.
"The government has dragged its heels for too long on this issue. But these latest revelations, combined with the findings of a new independent report, leave it with no choice but to act without delay."
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Three top dissidents are on informers list
Police are investigating a major leak of intelligence secrets, the Belfast Telegraph can reveal today.
The probe comes after a letter was sent to this paper identifying prominent dissident republicans and loyalists operating as agents.
The correspondence — which purports to come from a former RUC Special Branch officer — suggests dissident republican atrocities such as the murders of the two soldiers at Massereene or Constable Stephen Carroll in March last year could have been prevented.
A police spokeswoman last night said: "We can confirm that an investigation has already commenced into an alleged leak of sensitive information to a media source."
'Leak' blows lid on terror threat
Claims protection |of agents being put above public safety The recent attack on Newry Courthouse (above), the car bomb attack on Constable Peadar Heffron, and a paramilitary gunman. The author of the letter, who purports to have been a Special Branch employee, suggests many dissident attacks could have been prevented
PSNI detectives have begun an investigation into what could prove to be a life-threatening leak of intelligence secrets.
It comes after anonymous letters were sent to Belfast Telegraph journalists identifying alleged agents operating inside the dissident republican and loyalist worlds.
In some cases codenames are given as well as their registration numbers as Covert Human Intelligence Sources (CHIS).
The author of the letter purports to be a former Special Branch officer in the Royal Ulster Constabulary.
Three senior dissident republicans and three loyalists — two of them publicly known — are named.
A number of sources believe it was written by a disgruntled former officer with knowledge of the intelligence system.
The letter argues the protection of agents is being placed above public safety, and suggests a number of attacks could have been prevented including the shootings at Massereene Barracks and in Craigavon last year in which two soldiers and a police officer were killed. A police spokeswoman said: "We do not comment on intelligence matters.
"However, we can confirm that an investigation has already commenced into an alleged leak of sensitive information to a media source.
"The PSNI is fully committed to protecting all communities, reducing crime and tackling all criminality."
On Thursday and yesterday PSNI intelligence and investigative officers visited the offices of the Belfast Telegraph after being contacted by this newspaper.
The letters and an envelope were removed for forensic tests.
Detectives will be keen to identify its author.
Letters were sent to journalists Brian Rowan and Deborah McAleese, the Telegraph's crime correspondent.
The letters read: "I served in Special Branch. I know what I am talking about. Why am I writing to you? Because someone needs to ask the questions.
"The protection of agents seems to outweigh the protection of the public. This cannot be allowed to continue."
Because of the potential risk to life, this newspaper will not publish the actual names of those alleged to be agents.
Details that could cost lives in wrong hands
The letters sent to this newspaper take you inside the hidden world of intelligence.
It is a leak of the most sensitive information — details that in the wrong hands could cost lives.
The police and MI5 do not comment on intelligence of this type. They do not confirm or deny.
But the PSNI will now advise those named in the letters of the information sent to this newspaper.
"There would be repercussions for individuals whether what's in that (the letter) is correct or not," one source said.
The letter names a high-profile loyalist, a man republicans have raised questions about in their contacts with the Irish government, the police and the Police Ombudsman.
He is someone who Sinn Fein believes has been a so-called "protected species".
The letter claims he is a CHIS (Covert Human Intelligence Source) who has been "given thousands of pounds".
The author of the letter writes: "Colleagues of mine are being harassed and arrested under the new politically correct dispensation...
"We fought a tough war against the terrorists who would stop at nothing to undermine democracy. What was it all for?
"Our senior officers, who instructed us at every step, have been well rewarded and honoured, whereas we face a future of uncertainty and fear."
The letter then identifies three prominent dissident republicans, claiming they "are ours", meaning agents. In one case an actual name is given along with the codename and registration number — "a leading dissident began to target police officers in 2006 to build his dissident credibility". A second republican is identified by his actual name and by codename, and a third north Belfast republican is identified by name only.
This newspaper does not know the identity of the author of the letter, but a number of well-placed sources believe it has come from someone with knowledge of the intelligence world and its systems.
The letter is not being dismissed as a hoax.
An investigation is under way and the focus will be to identify the author before other sentitive information is leaked.
Related article
Northern Ireland's murky world of informers
Belfast Telegraph
Related Content
- Republic of Ireland sets aside prison spaces for dissidents
- Northern Ireland's murky world of informers


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Chocolate cake made with Sourdough starter. This is a very moist and chocolaty cake that is sure to make any celebration special.
Buttery Sourdough Buns
Buttery Sourdough Buns are Super soft on the inside with a crispy crust. The swirly shape means they are fun to unravel and enjoy just like a crescent roll.
Basic Sourdough Bread
Basic Sourdough bread that is great to have toasted with some jam for breakfast.
Caramelized Onion Biscuits with Indian flavors
Indian flavored Sourdough biscuits with caramelized onions. They can be served for breakfast or even for snack. Leftovers can be stored in airtight container and reheated before eating.
Basic Sourdough Sandwich Loaf
Sourdough bread with a nice golden brown crust with a soft, fluffy crumb. Tastes great with butter or a smear of Nutella
Fruited Sourdough Sandwich Bread
Soft sourdough bread studded with sweet raisins and tangy apple pieces. It tastes great toasted with some butter or as a grilled cheese sandwich with apple and arugula. All in all, this is a very versatile bread that tastes good any which way.
Sourdough Carrot Cake
I made this cake first time more than 3 years ago when I first got the sourdough starter. I took it to work and everyone loved it there. But I haven't had a chance to make it again until now. I saw the recipe in the King Arthur Catalog and it reminded me of the moist and delicious cake that I made years ago. Sourdough starter makes this cake very moist and there are no tell-tale signs of sourness or the addition of sourdough starter anywhere. I halved the original recipe and made 1 8″ round cake. Then frosted the…
Sourdough Pretzels
Blogging Marathon# 37: Week 2/ Day 2 Theme: Kid's Delight — Oven Baked Snacks Dish: Sourdough Pretzels For day 2 of BM# 37, I made Pretzels. Pretzels have been on my to-make list for a very long time. It all started when I saw them being made at a Pretzel bakery in the mall. I was really amazed how quickly & efficiently the guy twisted and shaped the pretzels. I wanted to try my hand at making then ever since. I made these Viennese Vyborg Pretzels last year and were loved by all. But those were more sweeter than savory…
Sourdough Multi grain Sandwich Bread
It's that time of the year when the ovens in most households are going to be working overtime. It's holiday season and to jump start my baking spree I joined the lovely group of ladies doing the bake-a-thon. Champa @ Versatile Vegetarian Kitchen is the brain behind this bake-a-thon. The group has been doing this baking marathon for the past couple of years and I'm joining in the fun for the first time this year. Group is planning to post 3 days a week, so look forward to some delicious sweet & savory bakes in the coming days. I'm always…
Sourdough Banana Bread
This is the last of the banana recipes from my drafts. This banana bread recipe uses 2 ingredients that I always have on hand, my soudough starter and of course the bananas. My starter is now more than 3 years old and it has been through a lot already in these 3 years. I forget to feed it regularly, but in spite of the neglect it has been doing well (knock on wood). Even though this bread has sourdough, it does not taste sour. All you can taste is the banana. I think the sourdough makes the bread really moist…


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Wonder Boys need win over Valdosta State to prevent
losing season
By Sean Ingram
Arkansas Tech's Wonder Boys have finished .500 or better the last six straight football seasons - tied for the third-longest stretch in the program's 96-year history. The seventh consecutive season of an overall record better than .500 is in jeopardy, and the 10th-ranked Valdosta State Blazers come to Russellville for a 2 p.m. Gulf South Conference showdown Saturday at Thone Stadium at Buerkle Field.
Tech (3-5, 2-4 GSC) must win its last three games - including at Harding on Nov. 6, then at home versus Southwest Baptist on Nov. 13 - to finish 6-5. Only three other times in head coach Steve Mullins' 14-year tenure at Arkansas Tech have the Wonder Boys recorded losing seasons: his first season in 1997 (4-7, but went 4-4 in the GSC); 2002 (4-7, 3-6) and 2003 (5-6, 4-5). Mullins said he knows the formula his team must follow to turn 2010 into a winning season.
"This is a great opportunity for our seniors to step forward and put their stamp on the program," Mullins said. "It's been many years since we've had a losing season and we have some challenges ahead of us. But if we protect the football, there's no reason we can't win these games.
"When you have disregard for protection of the football, it's going to make it hard on everybody. Valdosta State (6-1, 4-1) is a team that's going to force turnovers and a team that's going to force you to earn your way down the field. So far, we have not proven that we can do that offensively. If we go out and turn the ball over five times in this game, it's going to be a long afternoon."
Arkansas Tech has committed 32 turnovers in eight games season - an average of four per game, worst in the conference. Five turnovers wiped out the Wonder Boys' best offensive performance of the season last week - one that brought back memories of 2009's run to the second round of the NCAA Division II national playoffs. Tech totaled 442 yards of offense last week at West Alabama, but those turnovers, including two returned for touchdowns, were turned into a 49-26 defeat. The Wonder Boys also led in time of possession (39:55) and converted 9-of-17 third downs to keep the Tigers' offense off the field.
But any yards will be harder to come by Saturday afternoon. The Blazers are third in the GSC in total defense, allowing just 309 yards per game, and are led by senior linebacker Larry Dean, whom Mullins called "a remarkable player."
"Valdosta's defensive line does a great job of forcing you into double teams and letting their linebackers run free to make tackles," the coach explained. "(Valdosta State) is just very solid defensively. You would want to make a blueprint based on what they do in the secondary. They've got speed, they know what they are doing and they know how to cover their areas."
The Blazers are tied at the top of the GSC with 12 interceptions - five of those by senior cornerback Stevie Harden. Valdosta State is also the least-penalized team in the league, and ranks among the top four in the GSC in kickoff return average, net punting, kickoff coverage and field goal percentage. Blazers place kicker Daniel Anderson is 20-for-20 on point-after touchdown kicks this season.
Those things have helped VSU go 4-1 in five games that were decided by five points or less - including a 5-0 win over North Alabama, 21-19 win over Ouachita Baptist and 21-17 win over Arkansas-Monticello. That's helped the Blazers stay in contention for the GSC title and a berth in the D-II playoffs, despite an offense that ranks eighth in the league and averages 330 yards per game.
Party at the Plaza, Tech's pre-game tailgating celebration outside the stadium on Centennial Plaza, will kick off at noon. Tickets will be available at the Thone Stadium at Buerkle Field ticket office. Children age 12 and under dressed in their Halloween costumes will be admitted free.
In the huddle: Game 9
Who: No. 10 Valdosta State Blazers (6-1, 4-1 Gulf South Conference) at Arkansas Tech Wonder Boys (2-5, 1-4)
When: 2 p.m. Saturday
Where: Thone Stadium at Buerkle Field, Russellville
Radio, Internet: KWKK 100.9 FM; Sam Strasner play-by-play, Kelly Davis color; www.athletics.atu.edu
Coaches: Valdosta State, David Dean (34-9, 4th season); Arkansas Tech, Steve Mullins (88-59, 14th).
Series: Valdosta State leads the series 8-1.
Last time: The fourth-ranked Blazers snapped Arkansas Tech's seven-game win streak on Sept. 22, 2007, with a 28-27 league win on regional TV.
Last week: Valdosta State won its fourth straight game, 21-17 over Arkansas-Monticello; Arkansas Tech lost at West Alabama 49-26.
Time outs: It's time to get scared at Thone Stadium at Buerkle Field. Kids 12-under who wear a Halloween costume get in free to the game.
The Wonder Boys are 3-0 this season when the defense has returned a turnover for a touchdown. Tech's defense is also looking to limit its third straight opponent and seventh overall to less than 70 yards rushing in a game. Only Delta State and Ouachita Baptist rushed for more than 100 yards this season. The Wonder Boys held Southern Arkansas and West Alabama to a combined 42 rushes for 91 yards.
The last time Arkansas Tech beat Valdosta State was 21-14 in 1999.
Sophomore Roger Jackson is looking to catch a pass in his ninth consecutive game He's caught at least one pass in every game this season, including 11 catches against Henderson State and eight at West Alabama.
The Wonder Boys hope to rush for more than 150 yards for the third consecutive game. Tech gained 159 last weekend, and 200 against Southern Arkansas.


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Keeping Task Master Project Planner & Date Reminder Countdown Widget
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WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Anyone who has played sports competitively knows how important it is to have an edge against your opponent. New psychological research may give athletes just that: an advantage.
The penalty shootout. The last moments of a soccer match that determine the winner and the loser.
Penalty kicks are often the most stressful and emotional part of a match. The US women's loss in the World Cup final last month is proof. But could this loss have been prevented if goalkeeper Hope Solo knew she had a tendency to go right when her team was down?
According to a group of psychologists from the University of Amsterdam, goalkeepers are twice more likely to dive right when their team is down. When the team is up or tied, the goalie will equally dive left or right.
The researchers think this tendency to go right likely could extend to other sports that involve quick decision making during pressure.
The researchers did not look at American football highlights for their research, but they based it off of more than 200 World Cup shootouts.
We presented the research findings to former MLS goalkeeper and UNCW Men's Soccer coach Aiden Heaney. He thinks the study is interesting, but doesn't think he'll start coaching the research.
"I think there is more to it than that," Heaney said. "I think if I were coaching my goal keepers and start saying, 'Hey, go to your left when we're down,' I think the odds are still pretty high."
Heaney says the information, though, can be used by either side and thinks in the end it all depends on the athletes.
"The striker and goalkeeper, they both have the data," Heaney said. "At the end of the day the hardest penalty taker to read is the one changes up from game to game which way they go."
The study goes on to say that humans and some animals unconsciously position themselves to the right when they get close to something they really want. People lean their heads to the right when kissing; and dogs will wag their tail to the right when their master approaches.


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Mindy McCamish, with Woodcrest Apartments, has been named 2001 Manager of the Year by the Lubbock Apartment Association following the group's annual banquet held at the Lubbock Country Club.
LAA also named Alfred Garcia, with Woodcrest, as the recipient of its 2001 Maintenance Technician of the Year Award.
Reliable Life Insurance Co. has named Hope Lara of Lubbock and Billy Suggs of Brownfield its Agents of the Year.
Suggs, who has been with the company 27 years, received the recognition for the sixth consecutive time.
Reliable named Raul Mojica as its District Rookie of the Year.
The company also recognized Suggs for life and combined API; Billy Barfield, fire API; and John Villanueva, account condition/net lapse.
The Lubbock Apartment Association installed the following new officers following its annual awards banquet held at the Lubbock Country Club.
Elected were: Mark McDougal, McDougal Companies, president; James Pipkin, Pipkin Properties, vice president; Steve Fannin, Cain Fannin Insurance, secretary-treasurer; and John Leonard, Lubbock Lakeway LLC, immediate past-president.
Richard Cooper, president of National Travel Systems in Lubbock, has been re-elected vice chairman of the Texas Mutual Insurance Co., formerly the Texas Workers' Compensation Fund.
Cooper, who was appointed to the board in 1996, was reappointed to serve a six-year term in 1999.
TMIC is a state-chartered corporation that keeps the insurance market competitive and acts as insurer of the last resort for high-risk businesses.
The Sonic Drive In, located at Fourth Street and Frankford Avenue, was honored for having the fourth highest sales in the chain following the company's national convention.
In addition, the location was recognized as the No. 1 store in Texas.
American State Bank honored six women employed by the Lubbock-based financial institution for 25 years of service.
Presented diamond pins during its annual service awards banquet at the Lubbock Country Club were: Suzie Moore, senior vice president for business development and marketing; Dianne Madison, vice president for loans services; Pam Paden, vice president and manager of its 82nd Street branch; Thelma Phillips, vice president for lending, 82nd Street branch; Judy Darby, vice president and manager of the bank's Forth Street branch; and Mary Blackmon, banking officer, 66th Street branch.
Patterson-UTI Energy Inc. of Snyder announced the following promotions.
Spencer Armour has been named executive president. Armour, who founded Lone Star Mud in 1986, will be responsible for corporate sales.
Armour most recently served as president of AMBAR Lone Star Fluid Services.
Ron Brazzel has been named president of AMBAR Lone Star. He had served as senior vice president of business development.
Bonsall Wilton has been named vice president of technology and research. Wilton, a graduate of Texas A&M, will be responsible for drilling and completion fluids for AMBAR Lone Star.
Mark Campbell has been named vice president-Western Division. Campbell, who founded Tejas Fluids in 1985, will oversee the East Texas, South Texas, Permian Basin and Mid-Continent Regions.
Patterson-UTI owns and operates 319 land-based drilling rigs, with operations in Texas, New Mexico, Utah, Oklahoma, Louisiana and western Canada.
Hope Lara and Johnny Rodriguez of Lubbock, Billy Suggs of Brownfield and John Villanueva of Littlefield have achieved the status of executive general agents with the Reliable Life Insurance Co.
Angela Karnel and Diane Rankin, both graduates of Texas Tech, have joined the Lubbock public accounting firm of Robinson, Burdette, Martin, Seright and Burrows LLP as associate auditors.
Dick Vandewege, regional vice president for AXA Advisors LLC in Lubbock, has earned his Certified Financial Planner designation through the Certified Financial Planners Board of Standards.
To have a business item listed in The Avalanche-Journal, mail the information to Chris Van Wagenen, Business Editor, Business Bulletin Board, P.O. Box 491, Lubbock 79408.
© 2017. All Rights Reserved. | Contact Us


text:
Friend of Doug digs deep against SoccerCity
Mission Valley developers pour cash into San Diego State measure
Matt Potter 6 p.m., Nov. 21
According to an aversion.com CD review, "Two-thirds of the San Diego--based pop rockers Reeve Oliver (get it?) ["revolver"] met while working at Sea World, which would be just a cute, icebreaking story for their press sheet, except that it also threatens to be the most interesting thing about the group. On its self-titled, full-length debut, the trio puts together a sound that, from the get-go, completely eschews punk and wades into more radio-friendly waters. The melodies are always agreeable enough, and the vocals and musicianship are credible, but this is an indie band, isn't it? Let's hear something ballsy or at least weird. If nothing else, front man Sean O'Donnell is pretty adept at the ol' A-B rhyme scheme, a skill that he employs a little too repetitiously. Lines like 'Then you take that hand / Satisfy demand / Leave 'em full on doubt / That's not what you're about,' from 'Until Someone Loves You' have a certain Fountains-of-Wayne-on-training-wheels charm about them, but without the appropriately bratty vocals to accompany them, the lyrics end up sounding bored if not plain boring.... The fact that Reeve Oliver is a self-produced affair may be the record's greatest Achilles' heel. Never does the guitar tone come off as even impolite -- forget loud or rocking -- resulting in a wimpy, featherweight sound that could make the tame Switchfoot sound like AC/DC. Come to think of it, a contract with the majors can't be far behind."


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Brewers, Braun making trial run at Miller Park
By JR Radcliffe / MLB.com
MILWAUKEE -- The advantages to playing two final spring games at Miller Park were many, notably an opportunity for the squad to get used to a new grass surface and a chance for outfielder Ryan Braun to acclimate to right field in a Major League venue.
Braun has looked at ease in his new spot after switching from left field.
"I'm a little surprised in Arizona, as tough as it is to play here, that he really hasn't had any miscues," manager Ron Roenicke said. "I know we've got that cutout thing at Miller Park, and that's a difficult little thing to maneuver around because the ball slices back over and to that area, and will be a home run. Trying to navigate around the curve, that will be a little difficult."
Though not dramatically noticeable, the outfield warning track was also trimmed.
One thing Roenicke will not have at his disposal on Friday is replay. The game is not being televised, but Roenicke did participate in a final conference call on Friday with Joe Garagiola, Jr., the senior vice president of standards and on-field operations for Major League Baseball. The session served as a final Q&A on replay prior to its regular-season rollout.
"I feel good going into the season, knowing everything that I've seen that has come up in Spring Training," Roenicke said, nodding toward the access tunnel leading into the home dugout. "There's a blue phone there and the red phone in the other room. It will ring and Jerry [Narron, bench coach] will signal to me [when a replay is needed]."
Roster decision on Segura looms for Brewers
MILWAUKEE -- The deadline for the Brewers to submit their 25-man roster for the start of the regular season arrives at 2 p.m. CT on Sunday, and the question left on the table is whether or not starting shortstop Jean Segura will be on it.
Segura, who is still nursing an aching right shoulder, remained out of the lineup on Friday when the Brewers began the first of two final exhibition games at Miller Park against the Kansas City Royals. Both player and manager Ron Roenicke said there was improvement, but no decision was made as to Segura's status for Opening Day on Monday.
"[I'm] making a lot of progress, so we'll see," Segura said. "Getting better. Feels good, feels much better."
Segura hasn't played with the parent club since March 18, though his volume of at-bats in Minor League games has exceeded what he could have expected to see with Milwaukee in Cactus League play. He'll take another batch of swings on Saturday when starting pitcher Wily Peralta tosses a simulated game prior to the Brewers' afternoon game vs. the Royals.
"[Segura] threw [across the diamond] better today, but there's still a little bit there," Roenicke said. "Hopefully it continues to improve every day. He said there's definitely improvement, which is encouraging."
Rules would permit the club to backdate Segura's 15-day disabled list stint to March 21, which would allow him to play in regular season games five days into the season. Elian Herrera, who has officially been optioned to Triple-A but remains with the club for the weekend, would be the likeliest candidate to take Segura's spot on the roster in the short term.
"The good thing is if [Jeff] Bianchi is the one who's in there [at shortstop], which as of right now would be right, he's played great this spring," Roenicke said. "If he can continue to do that, hopefully we're not missing that much with Siggy out."
Worth noting
• With left-hander Jason Vargas starting for the Royals on Friday, right-handed batters Rickie Weeks and Mark Reynolds got the nod at second and first base, respectively. Roenicke intended to use lefties Scooter Gennett and Lyle Overbay in those spots on Saturday against Royals right-hander Yordano Ventura.
"Then Opening Day, I have a decision to make," Roenicke said. "I think I know how I'm going to do it, but they're still very difficult."
• Reliever Francisco Rodriguez, who was sidelined for a time in Spring Training after stepping on a cactus, is among those scheduled to see action on the hill on Saturday.
• Kansas City will use the designated hitter for the two exhibition games at Miller Park, while the Brewers will operate by standard National League rules.
JR Radcliffe is a contributor to MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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616 Grammar Related Review Games
Multiple titles with the same name do not contain duplicate test data. Select the data set of your choice to play games.Past Simple Games (ID: 31969)
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Identify the adjective phrase and the word it modifies.
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Get Your NetSpend Debit Card Activated
NetSpend provides master card and prepaid visa card that are issued by Member FDIC, Inter National Bank, Bancorp Bank and MetaBank. This offer suits the most to the under banked customers as prepaid debit card does not require any commitment, credit check and minimum balance. The card can be used for shopping purpose nationwide and even for online shopping and can be easily refilled by any ATM. If you have got a debit card from NetSpend then you need to activate it.
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You can get a prepaid debit card from NetSpend and can activate it easily by going to their official website and following the procedure described above.


text:
Newbie wants a Corsair with no flight experience
Hi All,
Add me to the list of newbies, who are deperate to have a war bird as their first plane. I did a search for this question, but either my specific question hasn't been covered, or my search fu is weak, but here goes.
As stated earlier, I've never flown an RC plane before, many cars, a beginner dual main rotor heli, but no planes.
I've been flying on a Real Flight Simulator for a few months now and can fly and land pretty much everything up to the war birds, pretty easily. Still working on duct fan and turbine planes, but I'm not at the point where I can recover them easily and land them without damage at will.
If I can fly and land planes on this flight sim as described, what plane should I start with?? I'm not opposed to buying more than one plane (a trainer now and a war bird soon after), but on the sim, I actually find the war birds easier to fly. How does this flight sim translate to the real world??
If you're not opposed to getting a trainer, I would say go that route. The simulator helps, but it's no replacement for "real world stick-time".
Normally I'd suggest a 3-channel trainer, unless you're buddy-boxing with an instructor. Hobby Zone Super Cub is a good choice. If you really want to go the 4-channel route... I'd suggest the ParkZone T-28.
Also, if you haven't already, be sure to play around with the environment settings in the sim. Increase wind speed, turbulence, etc. It still won't perfectly replicate the real world, but you'll definitely have to work harder to avoid a mishap.
As long as you understand that you WILL crash your first plane, and that your first lessons will actually be in repairing, you'll be fine
My first rc plane ever was a small 650mm wingspan Bf-109 belly lander. It was great and only took me about 2 weeks of every afternoon flying to master. I did break it in half on my second flight, but it was easy to repair (with hot glue) and was back in the air the next day.
I don't recommend this method for everyone, but for me it was a great way to learn. It was a fast and twitchy plane, easily thrown around by the wind, but those were valuable lessons that would have taken months in a "trainer" to learn.
Good luck and have fun
Hi I'm a relative noob too. I was / am in the position where I know no one who flies rc but wanted to start out without driving miles to join a club as I live in a rural area with lots of open space.
I bought a HZ cub and despite dire warnings of impending doom I threw it into the air and flew it ok without crashing, landings were nose over affairs in the long grass but no damage. The over the top advice I received, on another UK forum almost put me off rc for good.
I did have the advantage of being a one time PPL so had to study aerodynamics and the mechanics of flight so I guess that helped me a lot, however it does not help to get the feel of the a/c.
I now have a skyraider and will maybe maiden it this morning. It may well crash, it may not, time will tell. I treat it as a disposable training item and when I do have the experience to fly with a modicum of skill will build another out of better quality parts rather than keep repairing the old one.
If you can walk the walk of shame with head held high and your ego lets you be honest with yourself you will be fine. Your plane may not, but they are hardly items requiring a mortgage to replace.
Your plane, your choice, your attitude. Best of luck.
EDIT: I got up for a couple of minutes and crashed it breaking the wing and the prop. Glue is setting on the wing as I speak but a new wing is very inexpensive, so I'm going to order 2 as the shipping is a bit on the expensive side.
A bit poorer but a bit wiser - main difficulty is seeing a grey airplane against a misty sky at 400 yards or so - it got a bit far away due to my not keeping ahead of the A/C. It all went lairy from there and ended up in a death spiral. I found orientation when it showed me its underbelly but by then it was too late........
Last edited by Damnandblastit; Feb 16, 2013 at 05:15 AM.
I think if you can find a first generation Parkzone Corsair that would work well for you. It flies well at slow speeds. I flew mine as a belly lander and it was terrific. Also after you get comfortable with it you can put a speed .25 from heads up rc in it and tear up the sky. The larger motor took it from a trainer feel to a real fighter.
Again, I have no issue with getting a trainer plane, I actually kind of like some of the Cub/Super Cub Trainers, but I definitely want something larger and 4 channel.
This plane has probably been a big trainer plane. I started with one and now have 17 planes, mostly warbirds. I had a little bit of sim time but found that it is nothing like the real thing!!(My personal opinion).
My Bixler was destroyed in a mid air with a gas Zero, I replaced it straight away as it is such a good flyer. I still take it to the park everytime I go flying.
It's easy to repair "when" you crash (and you will crash), as the motor is not in the nose. So when you crash it, the motor and prop usually survive.
My second plane was a 1400mm Cessna, the the next was a T-28. I just took little steps .
First step-Trainer glider style high lift high motor.
Second step- high wing trainer.
Third step - low wing trainer.
Forth ster - PZ spitfire.
Now I can fly just about anything!
Plus you can always use the Bixler/Skysurfer later to try FPV.
I have both the pz t28 and first gen corsair. They do fly very alike. The t28 is a bit easier and better imo.. Once I mastered it I maxed out the control horns and its nice and aerobatic.. Avoid the second gen corsair because it looks heavier.
the white gorilla glue works nice for repairs and is lighter than Horsley
the bixler is what I started my brother on. Very versatile and no runway required.. Crashes repair faster because of the motor location
Obviously No.
They stuck them in trainers - with a flight instructor.
Many full scale pilots feel RC flight is actually MORE difficult than flying a full scale.
Good trainers include:
Super Cub (3ch but still good)
Champ - awesome self teach plane but needs calm days.
Bixler/SkyScout/many other names - fast but the prop is not in the front so it takes TONS of abuse.
GWS Slow Stick - My favorite - it is slow and forgiving
Sometimes I think people forget that these are not real planes, they are small toys (at this park flyer level anyway), and they don't require methodical training regimes to become proficient with them.
Everyone I know who started with a trainer has taken ages (months to a year in some cases) before that are proficient. And some of these guys fly everyday. On the other hand everyone I know who jumped in the deep end so to speak and started with a small warbird, was proficient within a few weeks.
This is just my observation over the past few years. I'm not pushing this on anyone, but just thought I would share.
If you go to the beginner forum you will see a bird called the Albatross by Crash Test Hobby. I would recommend whichever size you wish. I have one and use it to train the family and others at our field. It is very tough "EPP", easily repaired, and can easily be modded to have ailerons. It is a FUN airplane with 10min run times off a 1300mah 30c 3s. If you want a Warbird really bad Dynams 1200mm series are some of the easiest warbirds around to fly. I would suggest not to get the P51 tho as it was the first in that line and needs some mods to fly decently. Dynam learned from that one tho and the rest are great. However I have seen many ParkZone Wildcats, and they are great first time warbirds, are belly floppers and therefore no landing gear to take care of.
Jim, I like your attitude, that is, you know and accept that you should start with a trainer. A proper trainer is mandatory for 99% of student pilots. There is the odd student pilot who is a natural RC flyer who learns on a "hotter" model, but let us assume you are not that fortunate.
The PZ T28 is easy to fly. I have flown one for a short time and it is as many people say, easy to handle. Easy is relative. For experienced pilots, anything is easy to fly. All I can say is it is not the ideal first trainer. It will be a great second plane, or advanced trainer, however. Buy one if you must if only to satisfy your desire for a warbird. But hang it on the wall until you are totally comfortable flying your first trainer, which is ideally a high wing 3-channel or 4-channel.
Your flight simulator experience is a big help. A sim's biggest benefit is the fact that it teaches you "orientation", which is knowing which way to push the stick in order to make the plane go in the direction you want to go. It also teaches you to be gentle on the controls and not to freeze. It also helps to give you the correct reflexes and muscle (thumb and forefinger muscles) memory.
A sim is exactly what it is, it just simulates real life. An RC sim is nowhere near the sophistication of full size F-18 or 747 simulator, yet a course in those simulators does not earn a pilot his wings. He still needed to start on a trainer.
A sim will give you a better chance of surviving your first flight and this alone is huge help. You still have to accept the inevitable fact that sooner or later, you will crash during your learning process. Well, life is a learning process...I consider myself a decent pilot and I crash all the time
There is merit to the large trainer, i.e. they can buck the wind better, they usually have more gentle manners and are more stable. Of course, being larger, they stay in sight longer. Down side of large models is their higher initial cost and I believe that they inspired the saying that "the bigger you are, the harder they fall"
FWIW, I did learn on a large 60" wingspan balsa Midwest Products Aristocat. Not many choices in trainers at the time, unlike today. If I were to do it all over again, my approach would be different.
On the other hand, small trainers are less expensive, less stable, more easily affected by wind and can fly out of sight quicker. On the plus side, they can be flown in smaller fields. Their smaller mass makes them almost indestructible and when they do get damaged, they are easy to repair and parts are cheaper to boot. Gyro stabilization has become a common feature, so that makes them equal to or better than large models, in terms of stability and resistance to being blown about by the wind.
Having said all that, my suggestion is to avoid the large/small extremes and go for the happy medium....a three channel mid-size trainer from 900mm to 1200mm wingspan. Say, a HobbyZone SuperCub (1200mm) or Ares Gamma 370. The Gamma costs less than the SuperCub and it is an cheap/easy upgrade to an aileron wing. These are the two best entry level trainers, IMO.
Further note on the Gamma. Let me repeat what Chucksolo suggested re: Gamma. Buy the Gamma Pro version with the brushless motor and aileron wing, but buy the non-aileron wing as well and start with that. Save the aileron wing for when you get better. This is a cheaper and way better alternative than buying the regular non-aileron Gamma with its brushed motor then buying an aileron wing.
Oh yes, read up as much as you can regarding setting up the model properly, i.e. control surface alignment and throws and so many other little details that are invisible to the beginning RC pilot. Read all the stickies on top of this Beginner's Forum.
Go for it, my "real" first rc plane was parkzones T-28 (had only flown 2channel years before) maidened in 15+ knots of wind, my legs and hands were shaking...
5mins after scooting around the sky fighting the wind and several landing attempts I got her down in one peice after which I was hooked.
I finally crashed it 1yr+ later due to poor eye sight...
first gen parkzone corsair easy to get parts belly land it don't worry just fly. t-28 isn't as good to me as the corsair in slow turns. only one way to learn sometime sink or swim i started with a p-51 not the best way to go i did learn a lot about glue lol
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About keeping the company's internal and external messages aligned, Jackson Family Enterprises President Rick Tigner said:
"We broke down our strategic initiatives into three simple buckets. You want to keep it simple so everyone knows what the plan is. Our strategy is lands, brands and people. So that when people want to know what are we working on, you can break it down to land, brands and people, and then we have the initiatives below that."
Read more from writer Gregory Jones in Smart Business.


text:
CAIRO, May 13 (UPI) -- The Egyptian trial of a former aide to deposed Libyan dictator Moammar Gadhafi was adjourned again Monday, a judge said.
Ahmed Gadhaf al-Dam, a Libyan-born Egyptian national who moved to Cairo to seek political asylum, was convicted of corruption charges and ordered to serve 30 days in an Egyptian jail. Ahram Online said the term has expired but al-Dam remains in custody on charges he tried to kill the police who arrested him and was spying and harboring unlicensed weapons.
Police who searched his home said al-Dam had recording equipment and guns hidden there.
Al-Dam said the items were not his and denied the charges. His trial is scheduled to begin Wednesday.
Libya has demanded al-Dam be extradited but a judge denied the request when it was revealed al-Dam had come to Egypt seeking asylum.


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Want to give your sweetheart something totally awesome, unique, and affordable? Check out these do-it-yourself geeky valentine's gifts! From cards to decor, there's a project for everyone!
Tag: superhero
Gather 'Round Padawans (Part Eight): Ms. Marvel II
Who among us has never dreamed of being a superhero? If you clicked the link to this article, I imagine you have done so at least once in your life. I have done so many a time. I am thirty-seven and I still do it. I even wrote a superhero novel because if I can't do it, my imaginary friends can.
When you envision yourself as part of the cape and tights brigade, are you being you or are you someone else? In fantasy land, I'm usually at least three inches taller and definitely fifty pounds thinner, I have ringlets instead of barely tamable frizz, a much cuter nose, and I can run in heels while brandishing my rapier wit. And a katana.
Continue reading Gather 'Round Padawans (Part Eight): Ms. Marvel II
GeekMom Holiday Gift Guide #7: Clothing and Household Goods
Geeks love to dress the part, regularly donning their Doctor Who T-shirts or multi-pocketed Scottevests. They also love their household tools and goods, finding products that make their lives easier. What are the GeekMoms' favorites for 2015?
Dyson Cinetic Big Ball Animal+Allergy & V6 Mattress Vacuum
Prices vary
Dyson makes quality and extremely effective products, and these two vacuum models are no different. The upright vacuum will suck more debris out of your carpet and off your floor than you ever thought possible, improving your indoor air quality and ridding it of animal fur and dander, along with other allergens. And the V6 Mattress Vacuum is a great handheld solution to vacuum mattresses, car interiors, stairs, and anywhere else an upright would be tricky to use. These bagless, easy-to-empty vacuums will make your life easier. They did mine.
Continue reading GeekMom Holiday Gift Guide #7: Clothing and Household Goods
'SheZow' – A Fun Gender-Flipping Cartoon With Issues
We haven't fully cut the cable cord, but we have dramatically cut back on our subscription. Our kids are such astute users of Netflix and Hulu (and TiVo) that live TV befuddles them. As a mom, that means I'm watching a very wide variety of TV from across channels I've never watched and countries I've never been to. That also means I can walk you through what to expect from these new-to-us shows.
SheZow, an Australian-Canadian show, is one my kids found over the summer.
SheZow exemplifies the problems of having an interesting thought or making a funny one-liner joke and then trying to flesh it out into a full idea. What would happen if a superhero, upon becoming that hero for the first time, found him- or herself in the wrong set of circumstances? Thus was born Guy Hamdon, also known as the greatest female superhero, SheZow.
The premise is simple: As the creator, Obie Scott Wade, explained, he was a fan of Shazam as a child and wondered what would happen if he said his name wrong. SheZow grew out of that flight of fancy; Guy and Kelly Hamdon find their deceased Aunt Agnes' ring and Guy puts it on, transforming instantly. Continue reading 'SheZow' – A Fun Gender-Flipping Cartoon With Issues
Get the Superhero Wall Art You Deserve (at a Discount)
The fine folks at the Two Fish Project store on Etsy put out this wonderful modern art versions of our favorite superhero, videogame, and other special heroes. They print them as posters or special occasion cards, or you can get them as iPhone backgrounds too. And they've offered to donate a percentage of sales back to us, which is a win-win as far as we're concerned!
You can get the posters as small as 5″ x 7″ for just $9, up to 11″ x 14″ for $20 (unframed), and they have special deals when you buy themed groups. Even better, you can save 10% when you use the discount code GEEKMOM at checkout! There's more to see, so go check them out!
All images courtesy Two Fish Project.
Everyone Should Meet The Shadow Hero
"Look at this." I showed page twenty-nine of The Shadow Hero to my daughter, who has been taking a comics and cartooning class. "You see how your eye flows around the page, the action and reaction shots branch out in all direction, yet clear storytelling and speech bubbles properly placed—brilliant comic montage! And check out this completely different take on page 105, artistically reflective of the spinning barrel of a gun as the panels…"
I'm not an artist, but wow, do I appreciate a good one. First Second has put out a superhero graphic novel with ties to the history of comics, racism, and the duality of first generation Americans, in an entertaining format that young YA and up will enjoy.
Gene Luen Yang, creator of award winning American Born Chinese, and Sonny Liew, who recently did a graphic adaptation of Sense & Sensibility, have come together to introduce The Shadow Hero. It is the origin story for a long-forgotten comic superhero from the 1940s: The Green Turtle. As a history geek, I was curious to hear there was an Asian-American comic so long ago, since mainstream comics are amazingly white and male. Yang explains that in 1944, Blazing Comics asked Chu Hing to create an original superhero for them. Hing came up with The Green Turtle, but not everything is clear about this superhero during his brief run.
Yang and Liew have filled in the past with The Shadow Hero. Yang is a powerhouse in the graphic novel world, and does not disappoint. The story takes place in West Coast Chinatown during the early twentieth century. Hank is a young, handsome, nice guy, whose only goal in life is to be just like his father: an honest grocer. But then his mother decides her son should become a superhero, and since his father has an ancient Chinese spirit residing in his shadow, fate leads Hank to become more than he had planned.
Although Hank is our hero, his mother, Hua, is my favorite character. Starting with her resignation of the drabness of American life, to her being flattered that another superhero was checking out her "bosom" (really a hidden pork bun), to her inability to keep her son's dual identity a secret, this lady made me laugh.
Speaking of women, although there is a kick-ass, sexy romantic interest here, she isn't the only girl around. Not only is the mother a big role, but there are two other dangerous women introduced. Yay!
The plot is fast-paced, the dialogue true, and the artwork brings a likable personality to the world. Besides page 29, there is creative use of the comic format throughout, especially during the action scenes. I really liked the ending (defeat by the clever use of words!), and hope there is more to come.
The Shadow Hero comes out in July. GeekMom received a copy for review purposes.
Lottie Dolls Is Running a Super(hero) Costume Contest!
Here at GeekMom we've had some spirited behind-the-scenes debates on whether or not Barbie's unrealistic dimensions affect a little girl's self-image. Some, like me, wonder if women's tendency toward perfectionism isn't perhaps the result of the barrage of idealized feminine images children receive through their toys and the media. Others at the blog take a softer approach, claiming, "I played with Barbies as a kid and I turned out happy and confident."
What we have agreed upon, though, is that Arklu's Lottie Dolls are wonderful toys—many of us have bought them for our children or for friends. Whether you appreciate the fact that Lottie has a "childlike" body (she doesn't wear makeup, jewelry, or high heels either), or just enjoy her for her hobbies (including robotics, ballet, karate) and accessories (puppies, picnic baskets, pirate queen ensembles), there is no getting around the fact that this is a fun, well-constructed, charmingly-conceived toy. Also: affordable.
And now, as it turns out, your family could win the entire Lottie collection—dolls, accessories, clothing, and animal friends. Lottie Dolls is teaming up with the non-profit organization "Brave Girls Want" to launch a global competition to get kids aged 10 and under to design a superhero outfit—the first "crowdsourced doll outfit design by a child" for the Lottie™ doll.
With the release of a whole slew of superhero movies on the way, we know that there is an acknowledged lack of strong female superheroes out there, so this is why we thought a competition and campaign with the message that girls can be superheroes too is very much needed.
Want to enter the contest? Here are the details…
The prize:
- One lucky child will see their superhero outfit design manufactured and made commercially available in Autumn 2014.
- The winning child will see their original artwork design, first name, age, city, and country on the back of the outfit packaging.
- The winning child will also win the entire range of Lottie dolls, accessories, and outfits.
How to enter:
- Parents: Go to the Superhero Contest app on the Lottie Facebook page; like the page and download and print out the Superhero Outfit Design template.
- Kids: Start coloring and create a superhero outfit design for Lottie.
- Parents: Take a photo of your child's design and upload it on the Lottie Facebook app, and fill in a form to allow your child to enter.
Terms and Conditions:
- Competition open to kids aged 10 and under only.
- Parental permission required to enter the competition.
- Competition closing date 7th May 2014.
- A winner will be selected by jury and confidentially notified in May 2014.
- Multiple entries permitted.
Full terms and conditions available here.
PS: A selection of entries is shown on Pinterest—and if you have ever enjoyed the company of a little person with a vivid imagination you will need to immediately head over there and check out some of the superpowers that the contestants have imagined for Lottie:
- "She can touch animals wounds and they go away. She shoots bandages over their wounds."
- "She can fly into whirlwinds in air and water. She can make rainbows."
- "She shoots love hearts from her hands to make sick children better."
- "Her cape shoots out [watermelon] seeds to grow for all the children [so that they] never go hungry again. No one will ever die from hunger or thirst again!"
- "She can fly with her jet pack and protect dinosaurs."
- "She shoots rainbow colored hearts from her hands. When she hits a villain it makes them turn nice/good instantly. If she was real there would be no wars."
This is good stuff; you won't want to miss it!
Max Steel Reinvented
With a four year old who is obsessed with superheros and knights on a rotating basis, I was intrigued to take a look at the world of Max Steel, a sword-wielding superhero based on the line of toys from Mattel. In 1999 when the first Max Steel toys were released, children were introduced to the character through a free 12 page comic titled Take it to the Max. The franchise then became a show, which aired from February 2000 to January 2002. There are even movies available in Latin America where the hero has a devoted following. More recently for the US audience, new Max Steel episodes returned to Disney XD in March with the newest episodes beginning to air on August 17. This past month the new line of toys was revealed.
Having long since laid aside an aversion to my children playing with fake weaponry, I was excited for my son to play with Max's Sword. Not in the least because I am told at least a half dozen times a day that his favorite color is blue, the color of choice for Max's latest incarnation. It's no lightsaber, but it's pretty cool. It was a big hit with my recently turned 4-year-old, who has an extensive collection of fake pirate swords, Excalibur-like swords, and sticks that he plays with. Much like the lightsaber of my childhood, it makes those "vroomy" noises when you swish it through the air, instant win.
The sword comes in two pieces, the main blue sword and Steel, Max's companion/protector with whom he merges to become Max Steel. From what I can see of the show, Steel usually attaches to Max in some way, but can attach to the sword for special effects. My son prefers to play with Steel and the sword independently of each other, and is quite willing to let his brother play with Steel. Given the way my boys have taken to it, and with Christmas just around the corner, I have to say it's a pretty cool thing to pull out of the box.
As to Max Steel himself, we have yet to let our kids get in on the animated action. We have our fill with Daniel Tiger, but as the toy commercials start hitting our screens I'm sure there will be questions. The new show is animated, but rather than reminding me of Marvel or DC's animated offerings, it really has more of a Power Rangers feel to it. A little campy, but some good fun. My husband took one look and flashed back to the Transformers of his youth. The relationship of Max and Steel has a very Michael Knight/Kitt feel to it.
Things to know about Max Steel:
- Where other superheros find their powers in a dark past, the yellow sun, or a spider's bite, Max is powered by Turbo energy.
- Turbo is an acronym for Tachyon Unlimited Radiant Bio-Optimized, an energy which Max is able to create and control.
- Miles Dredd is the main villain, one of the founders of the agency under which Max operates. He turned on them to use Turbo energy for his own gain.
- Steel's full name is N'Baro Atksteel X377. His memory core was damaged and so he experienced things that he no longer remembers.
Any show whose villain uses the line "Ah Max Steel, if I knew you were coming I'd have baked a cake" gets an extra point in my book. On the whole, decent show, great toys, and fits in nicely with the Mattel toys that I grew up with. You can get the full line at Amazon for a pretty decent discount, and otherwise hit up your local big box store. I have yet to see these guys in our local independent stores.
GeekMom received this item for review purposes.
History Geek: Comics and Games from the 1930s
Superman and Monopoly. Can you imagine the world without them? Oh, you can? Do you know how much Superman has influenced ALL comic books, which in turn influenced radio shows, TV shows, and movies? And Monopoly? Besides chess, it is the most popular board game of all time. Both began in the 1930s.
Superman's legacy is incredible. In comics, he is still going strong. I think every generation will get their own movie version. Before Superman, the popular comics were about normal humans in extraordinary situations. Superman was an extraordinary alien on normal Earth. This set the stage for all the superheroes to follow.
Boys of Steel: The Creators of Superman is an entertaining and eye-opening look at Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. I had to explain to my campers that being a geek at that time, heck during MY teens, was not cool at all. These two geeky guys escaped into their imaginations and pulled out the icon of Superman.
Monopoly, ah, the bane of my gaming existence. I never played a full game until adulthood in an epic battle that lasted until the wee hours of the morning. (I talked about that game in a previous post.) When I first met my husband, I couldn't believe it when he told me he and his sisters would play MORE THAN ONE game of monopoly in a day?! How is that possible? As parents we've played Monopoly Junior many times with our kids, even creating a family song, "Loop de Loop! Loop de Loop!" about one of the spaces. I'm sure you have your own stories of this American pastime staple.
But there were other games and comics from that era that we know and enjoy today: Sorry (hate it!), Scrabble (love it!). There was more to comics than just Superman ("just" Superman, ha…). The 1930s are called The Golden Age of Comic Books. In fact, the style of the comic book (small, thin paper booklet) started at this point in comic history. Look at some of the comic book characters that debuted in the 30s: Wonder Woman, Captain America, The Flash, the Green Lantern, Batman and Robin, Captain Marvel, and more. (Seriously, there are more; it's stunning how many started during this time.)
Beyond superheroes, comic strips featuring stars like Dick Tracy, Popeye, and Little Orphan Annie were incredibly popular. Annie is dear to my heart since I wanted to be her after the movie from my childhood. Like Superman, this character continues on.
So what was in the air in America during the Great Depression that gave us such long-lasting pop culture? Maybe when times are tough, and life is slow, the imagination is the best place to be.


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Bwrote a review of Backcountry Access Alpine Trekker Adapters on January 28, 2013
These work well for me...
Familiarity: I've put it through the wringer
I get out about 20 days a year in the BC and these work great once you set them up properly. I've never had an issue with them coming out of the binding of off the boot. Once I got a bit of a system down they are quick and easy to get on and off. They aren't a replacement for a solid AT boot/binding but they work very well for an occasional BC skier like me who doesn't want to drop huge $ for a dedicated setup.


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The weather's turned cold and dull again, which gives me chance to share a few bits and pieces from the last few days.
I noticed a bigger snuffle hole than usual in the lawn over the weekend, with a smaller wormhole in the centre disappearing into the depths. Unfortunately, I didn't manage to repair it before Carole saw it....and recognised it as having been caused by my friendly Badger! To be fair, she was really good about it.....but the hole under the fence has now been blocked up with several pieces of sandstone....just leaving enough room for a future Hedgehog to squeeze through and take possession of the Hedgehog house that I've positioned just the other side of the fence.
The Water Voles have still proved to be disappointingly elusive. I did have my second brief sighting, though. At the weekend I was waiting to film a furtive Cetti's Warbler when a Water Vole suddenly crossed the path about 10m to my right and disappeared into the reeds...What's that about??!! :-)
Finally, a little bit more footage of the Turnstones at Yarmouth from last week. I could spend hours watching them!


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This sale has ended
The Revolutionary RoboVac
Dust Your Hands of Time Consuming Chores
Housework haters will revel in The Revolutionary RoboVac, your new robotic housekeeper that vacuums your entire house at the touch of a button. The X500 Elite RoboVac is an advanced, high powered vacuum robot that not only does the work for you, but pretty much thinks for itself, getting into all those hard to reach places that are often overlooked such as under the bed or lounge. Obstacles and stairs are easily avoided by intelligent roaming sensors and anti-collision technology, making for safe, unsupervised operation. And with the included remote control or voice operation feature, you can now command cleanliness from the couch! Edge sweeping, spot cleaning and sanitising every unreachable nook with its dual side brushes and powerful suction, tile, timber or linoleum floors are left spotless - and you didn't even have to get up.


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Little love lost on Valentine's Day
Just where Arsene Wenger and Sam Allardyce wanted to spend Valentine's Day: with each other, separated only by a few feet in two distinctly chilly technical areas in Bolton. There is little love lost between the two; it is not so much a case of 'opposites attract' as 'opposites repel'.
If this was a relationship, it would be abusive with one believing the other can, and should, be bullied mentally and physically. Bolton briefly outmuscled Arsenal for the equaliser that took this match into extra time, before Fredrik Ljungberg and Emmanuel Adebayor ensured the visitors progressed to the last 16 of the FA Cup.
So this was the revenge of the battered wife as Wenger out-thought Allardyce. Bolton's supposed psychological advantage counted for little while their usual height advantage was negated by the selection of one of the taller Arsenal teams.
A tactical triumph was augmented by a decisive move from the bench. Bolton's resistance was ended by an alliance of two of Wenger's replacements in extra time, Jeremie Aliadiere making the angled run that preceded Ljungberg's assured finish in his first game for eight weeks. Then, in a bizarre and rather eventful finale, Julio Baptista became the second Arsenal player to place a penalty high over the bar after surely the first professional foul of Nicolas Anelka's career, and then Adebayor belatedly gave Arsenal a two-goal margin of victory.
Wenger's tactic to combat Bolton's height was to field Gilberto Silva, his best header, at centre back. Like Patrick Vieira, whose mantle the Brazilian has inherited, he has looked accomplished as a stand-in defender in the past.
In Gilberto's case, that included the final half-hour of Arsenal's two previous Premiership games after Philippe Senderos' sending-off at Middlesbrough and Johan Djourou's substitution against Wigan. Having slipped seamlessly into the back four, he started there.
He displayed the anticipation required - not to mention admirable bravery - with a forceful block from Abdoulaye Meite's shot, the Senegalese following up after Stelios had struck the bar.
If he was exposed defensively, it was by slicing an El-Hadji Diouf cross against his own post, but otherwise Wenger's hunch paid off. It helped that, more often than not, the pace of Anelka was pitted against Kolo Toure, presumably to Gilberto's relief.
Defensive solidity provided a platform to play. 'We had some patches of total football at technical level,' said a delighted Wenger. 'It was an electric game with exceptional pace. We had a good mixture between fighting spirit and composure on the ball. I was very proud of our performance. We have at the moment an exceptional mental strength. There was no psychological handbrake in our head.
'To miss two penalties in a game with two Brazilians, that is exceptional as well,' said Wenger. The result allowed him to be laconic.
Gilberto could be faulted was in his second-half spot kick after Julio Baptista was tripped by Tal Ben Haim, whose tackling was mistimed all evening and eventually brought a brace of yellow cards. His penalty was lifted high over the bar and, together with when Adebayor advanced from the centre circle, rounded the keeper and struck the post, it represented one of two gilt-edged chances to kill the game off.
Arsenal, who have made a habit of conceding first, left themselves in the unusual position of not having to chase the game by striking early after a stylish counter-attack with an element of fortune. After an initial incision by Alexander Hleb on the right flank, Tomas Rosicky's pass was intercepted by Ivan Campo, but his touch took the ball into the path of Adebayor.
Stelios was covering, but only succeeded in deflecting the ball into the roof of Jussi Jaaskelainen's net when then Togolese shot.
Instead, however, they conceded late on. Bolton's set-piece threat, until injury-time, had only resulted in one misplaced header from Abou Diaby that drew a fine save from Manuel Almunia, produced their equaliser. With Jussi Jaaskelainen up for an injury-time corner and serving as a distraction, Ivan Campo won his header and, from close range, Abdoulaye Meite turned it in with his knee. 'It's not our main strength,' admitted Wenger.
Allardyce added: 'I can't complain really,' though he did dispute the red card shown to Tal Ben Haim. 'It was a great cup tie and a great effort by our players.'
On the final whistle, his handshake with Wenger was perfunctory. It was never going to be anything warmer, but the Arsenal manager could savour his Valentine's Day in Bolton.
• MAN OF THE MATCH: Tomas Rosicky - Another display of imaginative passing and incisive running from the Czech. He may not provide as many goals as Robert Pires, but, if anything, the Frenchman's replacement is the more accomplished footballer.
• MOAN OF THE MATCH: Fouls rarely get more professional than that committed by Anelka on Adebayor in injury time. The Arsenal striker was through on goal but referee Chris Foy, perhaps fearing Sam Allardyce's reaction if he dismissed two Bolton players, only booked the Frenchman. 'Chris Foy should never have sent Tal Ben Haim off tonight,' said Allardyce. Perhaps, but he should have red-carded Anelka.
• BOLTON VERDICT: Before the match, Wenger described Bolton as 'more technical now' which, coming from him, had to be praise, yet there was little evidence of it, besides the individual threat of Nicolas Anelka. While Bolton can revel in their status as outsiders, there would be more popular acclaim for Allardyce if his current team could play with the elan former players such as Jay-Jay Okocha and Youri Djorkaeff displayed.
• ARSENAL VERDICT: Some of the rancour may be absent from their games with Bolton when Thierry Henry and Jens Lehmann are absent, but it is notable that Arsenal often appear more assured without their supposed senior players. Adebayor appears liberated when his captain is absent while Almunia is in arguably his best form for Arsenal.


text: Katie Couric signed off the CBS Evening News for the final time last night. It certainly wasn't as momentous an occasion as Walter Cronkite's or Dan Rather's final broadcast. But, I still find it interesting to hear the parting words that Katie chose. Heck, she's been in our living rooms every night for 5 years. That's longer than many real-life relationships!


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He's always been the man waiting in the wings, but Tuesday night on "Pretty Little Liars," Wren had his moment with Spencer.
The doctor has had his heart set on the younger Miss Hastings ever since the show's inception, even if he was engaged to the elder Miss Hastings. That forbidden romance worked until they were caught and the Brit has been working to weasel his way back into Spencer's heart ever since.
But, seeing as her emotions were previously occupied by the now-evil (or not, time will tell) Toby (Keegan Allen), she wasn't exactly available. So, the minute he heard Spencer (Troian Bellisario) was in the dumps, he swooped in to cheer her up. And cheer her up he did this week, as the totally rebounding Spence grabbed Wren (Julian Morris) and gave him a good, hot kiss.
Whether or not this will last (it can't really, right?) remains to be seen. Ditto for whether or not Wren is into this for nefarious reasons -- he is in contact with Mona, after all, which might just make him a member of Team A. The fact that Red Coat was spotted at the scene of the smooch may lend some credence to that theory -- how else would blondie know where Spencer was going to be?
Either way, we're curious where you stand on matters of Spencer's heart. Hit the poll above and explain away in the comments.
Watch the full episode:
"Pretty Little Liars" airs Tuesdays at 8 PM on ABC Family.


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Military dictatorThursday, May 15, 2014
Court increases penalties against Bignone, others
The Criminal Cassation Court yesterday increased the penalties given to the last Argentine dictator Reynaldo Benito Bignone for systematic planning of the appropriation of children during the dictatorship that ruled the country between 1976 and 1983.
The country's top criminal court also revoked the acquittal of two repressors in a decision that was celebrated by the Grandmothers of Plaza de Mayo.
In 2012, late dictator Jorge Rafael Videla and eight other dictatorship perpetrators were convicted for their roles in the plan to snatch babies from their mothers while they were in captivity. Following a request filed by plaintiffs, defendants and prosecutors, the third court of the Criminal Cassation Court yesterday confirmed the ruling but also decided to go further, lifting Bignone's penalty from 15 to 25 years prison, and sentencing Rubén Oscar Franco to 25 years behind bars and Eduardo Ruffo to 14 years.
Ruffo was a member of a death squad that operated the clandestine detention centre known as "Automotores Orletti," which was used as base for the infamous Plan Cóndor, a coordination of repression between dictatorships across the Southern Cone region in the 1970s, which was orchestrated by the United States. He was sentenced for his role in the appropriation of Simón Riquelo, Uruguayan activist Sara Méndez's baby. In a previous proceeding, Ruffo — who was also a spy in the 90s in the government's Intelligence Secretariat (SIDE) — was sentenced for snatching Carla Rutila Artés.
Franco and Bignone were members of the last junta that ruled the country after the defeat in the Malvinas war. The Cassation Court, made up of president Mariano Borinski, Euardo Riggi and Liliana Catucci, considered that both men could have contributed to restoring the real identities of the snatched children but preferred to destroy the archives that may have helped to identify the hundreds of missing children.
"We praise the ruling," lawyer Alan Iud, who heads the Grandmothers of Plaza de Mayo legal team, told the Herald yesterday. "The country's top criminal court ratified what the Federal Oral Court Number 6 (TOF6) said two years ago but also found them responsible for the appropriation of children and for destroying evidence."
Others convicted
In 2012, the TOF6 also sentenced late former dictator Jorge Videla to 50 years behind bars, the maximum penalty ever given in a proceeding; Antonio Vañek — one of the heads of the Navy — to 40 years in prison; and Jorge "El Tigre" Acosta to 30 years.
Acosta headed the Navy Mechanics School (ESMA) death squad during the first few years of the dictatorship.
Head of Military Academies Santiago Omar Riveros was sentenced to 20 years, medical doctor Jorge Luis Magnacco to 10 and former Border Guard Juan Antonio Azic to 14 years.
The tribunal also sentenced Víctor Gallo to 15 years in jail and his wife Susana Colombo, who appropriated Francisco Madariaga Quintela, whose father is the Grandmothers' secretary.
Colombo was sentenced to five years in prison and is the only defendant who is not serving her sentence in jail.
The lawyers representing the repressors will now probably file appeal requests before the Cassation Court. If the criminal court agrees, the appeal will have to be examined by the Supreme Court.


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Sam Smith, Questlove, Others React to London Building Fire"Horrifying news to wake up to this morning in London," Smith tweeted. "My thoughts and prayers are with all the victims."
Katy Perry, Ne-Yo, Bastille & More React to Second Presidential DebateKaty Perry to Hillary Clinton, "PLEASE DROP THE MIC TONIGHT HILL!"
'Empire' Announces Original Soundtrack ReleaseThe normal soundtrack includes 11 songs from the show, with a deluxe version bumping the number to 18.
Stevie Wonder Rocks The UN With Sting, Wyclef, Janelle Monae And More"I am so thankful that The Almighty gave me the honor of being blind. Now many would say, 'How can he say that?' I can say it because through being blind, I've been blessed with being able to really see people, not for the color of their skin, not for what they wear, not how they looked at me or what impression they had of me, but by the spirit in their hearts." -- Stevie Wonder
Happy Fourth of July! 10 Patriotic Pop Songs To Get Your BBQ StartedWhether you're poolside, at the beach or just firing up that grill for a BBQ before the fireworks get started, here are 10 songs to bring out the red, white and blue in all of us.
Back To Black: Top Ten British Neo-Soul Divas Similar To Amy Winehouse
Top 10 Pop Songs That We Wish 'Glee' Would Cover


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The guys at 5&A Dime have produced a series of t-shirts inspired by military aviation. They've channeled San Diego's Navel and Air Force heritage and drawn from actual flying squadrons – historic and current. For the release they've created a video look book, shot on site at San Diego's Flying Leatherneck Museum.
Check out the collection in stills after the jump.


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Sipdown!! (198)
Last night I realized there were a couple teas in my cupboard that should not have been there so I am no longer in the 200s (although that might change when I get home depending on whether my Della Terra order arrived).
Also, I maybe should not have made a cup of a new tea given I woke up with a cold and I am not entirely sure if my tasting is off or not. I know I cannot smell at all so hopefully that doesn't throw off the taste. I find it funny that I wake up with a cold the day before I return to Montreal and the freezing cold but oh well.
Okay so I can't taste anything :( I think I am picking up lemon but I really don't know. I guess I wasted the sample of this tea. Damn.


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« Bulk antimony sulfide electrodes for Li-ion batteries show high capacity, cycle stability; small particle size not necessary | Main | BorgWarner finalizes acquisition of EGR company Gustav Wahler »
GE and PowerStream launch Ontario microgrid demonstration project; Durathon batteries
2 April 2014
GE and PowerStream Inc. launched their first joint microgrid demonstration project, located at PowerStream's headquarters in Vaughan, Ontario. For the project, GE provided its Grid IQ Microgrid Control System (MCS), as well as the engineering design services, to help PowerStream build a microgrid, which uses renewable energy resources (wind, solar); a natural-gas generator; and energy storage devices (including GE's Durathon sodium-metal halide batteries, earlier post) to provide electricity for loads at its head office including lighting, air conditioning, refrigeration and electric vehicle charging.
Using the MCS, PowerStream can determine when it is most economical to use the resources powering its microgrid or when they need to revert to using power from the provincial power grid.
PowerStream's microgrid demonstration project marks the next phase of the company's efforts to support smart grid development at the provincial level and leverage innovative "smart" technologies in Ontario's electricity sector.
PowerStream is a community-owned energy company that provides power and related services to more than 365,000 customers residing or owning a business in communities located immediately north of Toronto and in Central Ontario. It is jointly owned by the cities of Barrie, Markham and Vaughan.
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text: I enjoyed this tea for its color and smoothness. It seemed very "mellow", had a slight fish scale aroma to start, and first steeping had a bit of astringency at the end. Second steeping lost the astringency. Deep color, pleasant tea shared with two friends and all of us liked it.


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Red Thunder
About the Book
Red Thunder
David Matheson has beautifully rendered the essence of long-standing customs and teachings in his moving novel set amongst the Schi'tsu'umsh Indians, now called the Coeur d'Alene Tribe. Until now, these stories have been guarded secrets among his tribe, partly from fear and partly from a need to protect what traditions they have left.
Matheson feels the time is now right to share his people's history because it is a story so much of the world yearns for; it is a story of faith, courage, and togetherness. This guide is intended to enhance your group's reading of this inspiring and enlightening novel of harmony --- man's harmony with the natural world, as well as his quest for peace and unity of purpose with a Higher Power.
Red Thunder
- Publication Date: January 1, 2011
- Paperback: 320 pages
- Publisher: Epicenter Press


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Today Valve Software head Gabe Newell gave an update on the cyber-attack on Steam last year. At the time, Valve believed that the hackers hadn't obtained any credit card information from users. However, now Newell says that it's likely that they did.
"Recently we learned that it is probable that the intruders obtained a copy of a backup file with information about Steam transactions between 2004 and 2008," said Newell. "This backup file contained user names, email addresses, encrypted billing addresses and encrypted credit card information. It did not include Steam passwords."
He added that there was no evidence that the encryption on the billing addresses or credit card data had been compromises. Still, it's best to monitor your credit card statements and activity. It's something you ought to do anyway but it's the best way to be sure that you're not being ripped off.
There are some other preventive measures you can take as well. Since last March, Steam has offered Steam Guard, a feature that allows users to lock their account so that only one specific PC can log into it and change settings. Changing your Steam password isn't a bad idea, either. If you used that same password elsewhere (for, say, your e-mail) then you should change that as well.
"We are still investigating and working with law enforcement authorities. Some state laws require a more formal notice of this incident so some of you will get that notice, but we wanted to update everyone with this new information now."
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Direct Admission in Polytechnic Diploma in Civil Engineering
ACMT College was started Polytechnic Diploma Engineering Programme in the year 2008 over 7 years. ACMT has a highly qualified, dedicated and motivated faculty and well equipped laboratories. ACMT is one of fast growing College in India.
May 22, 2014 (Newswire.com) - ACMT College was started Polytechnic Diploma Engineering Programme in the year 2008 over 7 years. ACMT has a highly qualified, dedicated and motivated faculty and well equipped laboratories. ACMT is one of fast growing College in India. We provide several diplomas and Degree programmes. Polytechnic Diploma programs are one of them. ACMT College has two branches one in Delhi campus and other in Agra Campus, We Announce the direct Admission for 2014 Session in Polytechnic Diploma in Civil Engineering programme. ACMT involves innovative research program in the field of Polytechnic Diploma engineering.
About Civil Engineering:-
Here at ACMT our faculty adopts the world class of science and technological atmosphere that create development & improved Engineering program that focus on both fundamental engineering principles and specialized Polytechnic Diploma Engineering. Our professors encourage each & every student that to creative talent. Now a day, polytechnic diploma in civil engineering is one of the best programmes in India. Let us brief define; Civil engineering is a professional engineering discipline that deals with the design, construction, and maintenance of the physical and naturally built environment, including works like roads, bridges, canals, dams, and buildings. It is traditionally broken into several sub-disciplines including architectural engineering, environmental engineering, geotechnical engineering, geophysics, geodesy, control engineering, structural engineering, transportation engineering, earth science, atmospheric science, forensic engineering, municipal or urban engineering, water resources engineering, materials engineering, offshore engineering, quantity surveying, coastal engineering, surveying, and construction engineering. Civil engineering takes place in the public sector from municipal through to national governments, and in the private sector from individual homeowners through to international companies.
ELIGIBLITY: - 10th (High School)/12th Class.
Duration: - 3 years Full Time for 10th Pass students, and 2 years for 12th pass students.
Documents Required For the Admission in Polytechnic Diploma in Civil Engineering:-
• 10th Mark Sheet./12th Mark sheet.(Self Attested copy)
• Transfer certificate/Leaving Certificate.(Original)
• Original or Provisional 10th/12th Certificate.(Self Attested copy)
Fee Structures of Polytechnic Diploma in Civil Engineering:-
Diploma in Civil Engineering (Polytechnic)
Yearly Semester
Agra Campus 35000/- Per Year 18000/- Per semester
Delhi Campus 45000/- Per Year 23000/- Per semester
*10000/- for Registration + uniform + Admission + Library.
Categories: Colleges and Universities
Tags: admission in polytechnic diploma, best polytechnic college in UP, top polytechnic college in delhi


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Overtime Labor Laws
Federal overtime laws, designed to help end the exempt vs. non-exempt debate, have made things worse. To non-exempt and exempt employees, labor laws continue to confuse.
Business Management Daily can help you comply with federal overtime laws. Learn when you have to pay overtime, and when you don't.
Q. We recently started permitting two of our employees to telecommute on certain days of the week. We are concerned with tracking these employees' hours. What are the wage-and-hour concerns we should be aware of for telecommuting employees?
The most recently released regulatory agenda of the DOL focuses on three major areas: 1. A "plan/prevent/protect" strategy that seeks to achieve compliance with workplace laws each and every day. 2. A departmental commitment to openness and transparency. 3. Reducing employee risk.


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What do you report when there is no story? The possibility that there might be a story soon maybe. Such is the story surrounding reports that Lance Armstrong may admit to doping allegations in an upcoming interview with Oprah Winfrey.
Take this portion of the story from ESPN, rife with nonexistent sources adding manufactured heat to the fire, the fun parts bolded for your enjoyment:
Citing an anonymous source, USA Today reported that the disgraced cyclist plans to admit to using performance-enhancing drugs but likely will not get into details of the allegations outlined in a 2012 report by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency that led to Armstrong being stripped of his seven Tour de France titles and banned for life from the sport.
The New York Times first reported last week that Armstrong was considering making a confession. On Saturday morning, The Associated Press reported Armstrong would make a limited confession and offer an apology during the interview, citing a person with knowledge of the situation.
"An anonymous source." "A person with knowledge of the situation." What does this even mean? Is this news? Hell, I'm a person with knowledge of the situation. After all, I have eyes and access to Wikipedia. My anonymous sources (which may or may not be my actual gut) say that Lance is a scumbag.
Either way, with so many news outlets reporting on this could-be story, I have to give credit where credit is due. Whoever is in charge of promotions for Oprah Winfrey's empire deserves a bonus, because this story is getting a lot of free publicity for what could amount to a really boring interview.