text:
Analysis of digital terrestrial television development in Taiwan
The development of digital terrestrial television (DTT) plays an important role of digital convergence. However, a regulator need not only select a suitable DVB standard but also decide timing of transition between existing standard and new standard. Although there are four major standards of digital terrestrial television in the world (ATCS, DVB-T, ISDB, DTMB), Taiwan, without its own standard, requires careful study to choose a suitable standard to enable digital convergence. According to the digitalization development and the technology evolution, the national communication commission (NCC) adopts a popular European standard, digital video broadcast-terrestrial (DVB-T) established by European Broadcast Union (EBU) in 1997, to develop its digital television systems.
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text:
BOCA RATON, Fla. - A South Florida college student and Hooters waitress has become famous worldwide after winning the Miss Hooters International 2012 pageant this week.
Amanda Jemini, 21, took the crown earlier this week during the pageant on Miami Beach.
Jemini has worked at the Hooters of Boca Raton for three years.
Jemini won $50,000 cash and will be featured in Hooters Magazine, Hooters Calendar, national marketing campaigns and TV commercials.
"This was my first time participating in the Hooters International Swimsuit Pageant, and it was an unbelievable experience," said Jemini. "The week leading up to pageant day was filled with early wakeup calls, hair and makeup and all-day photo shoots, but the real highlight was meeting wonderful kids at the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital. It was special to spend time with them and help to lift their spirits."
Jemini also attends Palm Beach Community College.
In a statement, Hooters said, "The contestants were selected from more than 18,000 Hooters Girls who presently work in one of the 430 Hooters restaurants worldwide."
Copyright 2012 by Post Newsweek. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Manchester will recognize worker for ideas that save tax dollarsBy PAUL FEELY
New Hampshire Union Leader
April 08. 2013 10:54PM
MANCHESTER - Leave it to an electrician to come up with a 'Bright Idea'.
John Baron, an electrician with Manchester's Environmental Protection Division, was selected last week by the city's Human Resources Committee as a reward recipient under the 'Bright Ideas' program.
Bright Ideas was established to improve the quality of city services by recognizing current employees who propose suggestions that directly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of city operations, or who offer ideas that significantly reduce safety risks in the workplace.
Baron submitted two cost-saving suggestions that together will save the city an estimated $52,916 in maintenance and energy costs.
His reward isn't quite on the same level. He will receive two $500 awards for his efforts, for a total of $1,000.
"I'm happy to be recognized," said Baron. "I know the economy is tough right now, and anything that leads to savings helps the taxpayers out."
The city's Environmental Protection Division (EPD) administration building lost power (supplied by PSNH) for 2 1/2 days during a storm in October, 2012, and city officials were looking into purchasing a generator to avoid similar situations in the future. The department estimated the price tag to be $35,000.
That was before the proverbial light bulb went off in Baron's head.
"I was walking around the building and the pump station, just trying to figure out if there was a better way to do this," said Baron. "Every dollar is tough to come by now."
Baron suggested tapping into an existing service line at the nearby pump station to supply power to the EPD administration building. That plan allows the back-up generator at the pump station to also serve as the back-up generator for the administrative building.
Using this method, the only costs incurred are $4,000 for PSNH poles and in-house expenses associated with making the proper electrical connections, which totaled $4,294.
The Bright Ideas Evaluation Committee put the cost savings of Baron's suggestion over purchasing a new generator at approximately $26,000. Also, because the charge for electrical usage will switch from the general rate of 7.11 cents to the large general user rate of 6.57 cents (1/2 cent per KHh), EPD should achieve a meter charge savings of roughly $10 per month.
Baron's second suggestion involved actual light bulbs.
Believing the costs associated with the city's roadway lighting was excessive, he suggested changing from 454 watt bulbs to 146 watt LED lighting, and applying to PSNH for a rebate. PSNH qualified the project and supported it with an energy rebate of $18,116. The light maintenance cost reductions are projected to translate into savings of $8,800 over five years. The city should also save electricity in the switch.
Monetary awards under the Bright Ideas program can fall under two categories - Improved Efficiency and Effectiveness, and Improved Safety of Operations. The awards range from a minimum of $500 for an idea involving a single department, to $1,500 for one that can be applied citywide. The maximum cumulative award for any one individual (before taxes) is $3,000.
The two awards have been submitted to the Board of Mayor and Aldermen for final approval. If okayed, the $500 awards will be paid to Baron through the city's payroll system.


text:
BOSTON — UGL Services, a division of UGL Limited, was selected as the BOMA Boston Affiliate Company of the Year, according to a press release.
As the dominant facilities services provider in the Boston area, UGL Services is a strong supporter of both the corporate real estate market and the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) of Boston, the release stated.
"Every year, we honor the companies that support the commercial real estate market in New England by recognizing outstanding properties, property managers and other service providers that help make the region one of the most desirable and competitive real estate markets in North America," said Jeffrey W. Cook, 2011 BOMA Boston president.
"UGL Services, with its portfolio of services and its leadership position in the market, is a major contributor to BOMA Boston's vitality and success," Cook added.
Click here to read the complete release.


text:
Playwrights: Eric Simonson, adptd from Kurt Vonnegut
Director: Brian Katz
Playwrights: Eric Simonson, adptd from Kurt VonnegutDirector: Brian KatzDrama$15-$359/12-10/12
Kurt Vonnegut's absurdist classic, adapted by Eric Simonson, introduces us to Billy Pilgrim, a man who becomes "unstuck in time." We follow him simultaneously through all phases of his life, concentrating on his (and Vonnegut's) shattering experience as an American prisoner of war who witnesses the firebombing of Dresden. A satirical and horrifying anti-war story, Slaughterhouse-Five carries a unique poignancy—and humor.Tickets and info: (415) 798-2682; custommade.orgCaption: Sal Mattos, Chris Morell, Brian Martin, Paul Stout and Sam Tillis. Photo: Stephanie Ann Foster.
12/2/2017 » 12/3/2017TBA's Cultural Leadership Presents: Weekend Finance Bootcamp
12/18/2017TBA Generals Registration DEADLINE!!
8/25/2017Bay Area Stares Down White Supremacists
10/26/2016Hello, Terry Boero.


text:
Design a PV System with the ABB UNO-7.6-TL-OUTD-S-US-ASign up Learn More
With SolarDesignTool you can design a PV system and panel layout in minutes! Handles multiple inverter technologies, performs climate-specific electrical calculations, and more!
This page contains information about the ABB UNO-7.6-TL-OUTD-S-US-A inverter. To compare this to other PV inverters, click here.
One-Year for Free!
Like us on Facebook and qualify to win a free subscription to the SolarDesignTool. Drawing will take place Sept 30, 2016.
DC Electrical Properties
- Maximum Input Current 48A
- Start Voltage 200V
- Max DC Input Voltage 600V
- Peak Power Tracking Voltage 200V - 480V
- Number of MPPTs 2
- MPPTs Can Be Paralleled Yes
- Maximum Current per MPPT 30A
- Operating Voltage Range 200V - 600V
- Polarity of Ground Floating
- DC Disconnect Yes
- Number of Modules Per Inverter 4
- Includes Fuses for String Inputs No
- Max Rating for String Fuses data not available
- Rating of Included String Fuses not applicable
- DC Input Wire Gauge Range 12 AWG – 4 AWG
- Integrated DC Arc Fault Protection Yes
AC Electrical Properties
- Rated Power Output 7600W
- Compatible Utility Voltages 208V, 240V, 277V
- Peak Efficiency 97.5%
- Weighted Efficiency 96.5%
- Maximum Output Current
- Max OCPD rating
- AC Disconnect No
- AC Input Wire Gauge Range 10 AWG – 4 AWG
- Sleep Consumption 0.6W
- Standby Consumption 8W
Mechanical Characteristics
- Height 29.3in (745mm)
- Width 23in (583mm)
- Depth 8.8in (223mm)
- Weight 81.6lb (37kg)
- CSI-Approved Built-in Meter No
- NEMA Enclosure Rating NEMA 4X
- Cooling Method Natural Convection
Environmental Constraints
- Ambient Temperature Range -13°F - 140°F (-25°C - 60°C)
Warranties and Compliances
- Compliances UL 1741, IEEE 1547, UL 1699B
- CSI Listed Yes
This web page is not the manufacturer's official data sheet and is not endorsed by the manufacturer in any way. For an official data sheet, please go to ABB's website.


text:
The Son That Former NFL Player Rae Carruth Tried To Kill Turns 18, Still Suffering From Permanent Brain Damage
The former wide receiver, who plotted the murder of his ex, Cherica Adams, is scheduled to be released from prison soon.
Speaking out for the first time since his manager, Jimmy "Henchman" Rosemond was captured by federal agents and charged with criminal cocaine distribution, Game told Hot 97's Angie Martinez that he still rides for the man whom he considers a part of his family.
"Jimmy's my brother and you know, it's ride or die," Game said. "It's an unfortunate situation, but we're gonna keep our heads up and hope for the best."
Game said observers shouldn't be so quick to take prosecutors at their word.
"Sometimes the government be entrapping you and flipping stuff. You never really know until the case is all rolled out," he said.
As for Rosemond's alleged involvement in the 1994 shooting of Tupac Shakur, Game said he wasn't really in a position to comment.
"In '94, when supposedly that happened, I was 13," he said. "I'm far removed from that. I didn't know Jimmy, I didn't know Pac I didn't know nobody... and again, it's just an accusation."
Game pointed out that Dexter Isaac, the person who claims Rosemond orchestrated the Tupac shooting, is serving life in prison and could have ulterior motives.
"Cats will say anything to see the light of day again," he said
Despite the media firestorm that has erupted around Rosemond, Game said he wasn't worried about being damaged professionally by his affiliation with the beleaguered mogul.
"Controversy has fueled my entire career and still to this day I walk with my head held high," he said.
(Photo: David Livingston/Getty Images)
The former wide receiver, who plotted the murder of his ex, Cherica Adams, is scheduled to be released from prison soon.
Each of the men could be served a life sentence in prison.
Presented by


text:
MINNETONKA, MINN. — September 7, 2010 — Growers are seeing corn plants dying early in fields across the nation's Corn Belt due to a severe outbreak of Goss's bacterial wilt and leaf blight, a bacterial disease that can kill plants within weeks of infection and cause yield losses approaching 50 percent during severe epidemics.
"This is one of the most widespread outbreaks of Goss's wilt that we've seen in years," said Eric Boersma, Syngenta Seeds corn portfolio manager. "Nebraska is experiencing higher than usual levels of infection, and Goss's wilt has also been confirmed much further east and north in the Corn Belt than it is usually found. This is a persistent and economically serious disease with potentially devastating results."
Syngenta plant pathologists have confirmed the presence of the disease in many fields, which is often misdiagnosed as drought stress or other foliar diseases, especially in areas where it is not typically prevalent. Symptoms of Goss's wilt include gray to tan lesions on the leaves that follow the leaf veins with small dark green or black "freckles" within the infections. Another tell-tale sign is a glossy appearance to the affected leaves, due to bacterial exudates.
As the disease is bacterial and cannot be treated with fungicide, Syngenta agronomists recommend planting hybrids that are Goss's wilt tolerant as the most effective way to manage the disease, in addition to burying infected residue, rotating crops and using pre-emergence herbicide products.
Syngenta screens both potential and current hybrids for Goss's wilt tolerance under in–field disease conditions to ensure tolerance. This rigorous rating along with diverse genetics developed from one of the deepest corn germplasm pools in the industry, enables Syngenta to bring to market hybrids that deliver strong tolerance to Goss's wilt and other yield-robbing diseases.
"In-field screening has proven more effective than greenhouse-only testing," Boersma noted. "Our observations in the problem areas this season confirm that Syngenta hybrids rated tolerant to Goss's wilt are providing superior performance versus competitors for growers in the face of this disease," he said. "Our confidence in our genetics and our screening and rating for this disease allows us to recommend specific hybrids that are highly tolerant, a key factor in managing this disease."
For all of the affected areas, Syngenta offers a wide range of hybrids that have proven tolerant to Goss's wilt and include Agrisure® traits for maximum performance. For more information or to find the products best suited for your specific disease, pest or soil needs, visit www.syngentaseeds.com or speak with your local Garst, Golden Harvest or NK Seeds representative.


text:
Holiday Inn Express Hotel; OmahaReviewing: Holiday Inn Express Hotel And Suites Omaha, Nebraska | Rating:
I have to travel to Omaha fairly often. I always choose to stay at this Holiday Inn for many reasons.
I always book a suite room, which has a microwave and fridge in the room. This room is spacious and has a little kitchenette with glassware and such.
The bed is comfortable and I can get a good nights sleep.
The bathroom area is very roomy. One thing I really like about this place is the shower. I have never had a problem with water pressure or water temperature at this hotel. I like how the water pressure is a nice steady steam. One thing I noticed are the towels seemed to be bigger then your standard hotel towels. I don't know if that is my imagination, but they do seem fluffier and bigger. I really like that, as most hotel towels are about the size of a postage stamp.
The free wireless service at this hotel is wonderful. I have never had a problem with slow connections here. It makes getting some work done easy and painless.
There is an indoor pool. It isn't that big, but it is nice enough. There is also a whirlpool in the pool area. The whirlpool is where I like to relax.
This hotel offers free airport shuttle to Omaha airport. I have always taken advantage of that and have never had any issue. The driver is always friendly and professional.
This hotel offers a complimentary breakfast bar. It has cinnamon rolls, which in my opinion are very good. They also offer cereal, muffins, fruit, yogurt and even hard-boiled eggs. I enjoy their breakfast because it is slightly different then your standard complimentary hotel breakfast.
I keep going back to this hotel because I continue to get excellent service and treated like a person and not just a number.


text:
Recent discoveries in astronomy, especially those made with data collected by satellites such as the Cosmic Background Explorer and the Hubble Space Telescope, have brought the science of cosmology to the forefront of public interest. These new observations suggest the tantalizing possibility that the solutions to some of history's most elusive mysteries might be found in the near future, making modern cosmology a topic that holds special interest for scientists and nonscientists alike.
Foundations of Modern Cosmology provides a highly accessible, thorough, and descriptive introduction to the historical development of and the physical basis for the modern big bang theory. This new textbook is ideal for electives that follow traditional introductory astronomy courses. It is intended to fill the gap between the many popular-level books, which can generally provide only a superficial treatment of the subject, and the advanced texts intended for students with strong backgrounds in physics and mathematics. The text is self-contained, appropriate for a one-semester course, and designed to be understandable to students with a grasp of elementary algebra. Emphasis is given to the scientific framework for cosmology, particularly the basic concepts of physics that underlie modern theories of relativity and cosmology; the importance of data and observations is stressed throughout. The text is divided into five major sections: historical background, a review of basic physics and astronomy, relativity, fundamental big bang theory, and current research areas, including structure formation, inflation, and quantum cosmology. Review questions, key terms, and an extensive glossary provide students with helpful study aids. In addition, the authors' website (http://astsun.astro.virginia.edu/~jh8h/Foundations) offers a wealth of supplemental information, including additional questions, references to other sources, and color NASA photographs.


text:
House & Home Roundup | 06.07.2007
Miesian Masterpiece The majority of this week's edition looks at Philip Johnson's Glass House in New Canaan, Connecticut. Exploring both the history and new life as the house opens to public tours, Behind the Glass Wall compiles photographs and memories from Johnson's — and his companion, David Whitney's — friends and colleagues. We had the idea of journeying to New Canaan this summer to tour the house, but we paused for too long and the tours have been mostly filled for the rest of the year! This article and the accompanying slideshow offer a good (but temporary) substitute.
(Photographs by Todd Heisler, Cheryl Gerber, John Lei)


text:
Is the attack Joe May of Danielsville (Letter, Jan. 10) made on Alec Baldwin to be regarded as the attitude of the victorious Republican conservatives in the recent presidential election? (Mr. May said he wanted to see Mr. Baldwin ''squirm'' as a result of the latter's saying he would leave the country if George W. Bush were to be elected).
Does Mr. May articulate the attitude of the person for whom he voted? If so is Mr. Bush guilty of not only stealing the election, but of being hypocritical as well when he says he wants to heal the wounds and unify the country again? Is Mr. May's attack on Mr. Baldwin intended to be healing and reconciling?
I'd like to share with Mr. May a piece of humor someone sent recently:
The election is over, the results are known.
The will of the people may not have been shown,
But let's forgive the quarrels and show by our deeds,
We will give our presumptive leader all the help that he needs.
So let's all get together, and let bitterness pass,
I'll hug your elephant and you can kiss my...donkey.
Wayne Eldrege Butler
© 2017. All Rights Reserved. | Contact Us


text:
This property has been removed by the agent. It may be sold or temporarily removed from the market
3 bedroom flat for sale33/13 Murrayfield Road, Edinburgh, Midlothian
Offers in Region of
Property Description
Key features
- Large SW facing balcony
- Two reception rooms
- Three double bedrooms
- Study
- Kitchen/breakfast room
Full description
Tenure: Freehold
Kinellan Gardens is an exclusive development completed in 1993 incorporating a sub-divided stone built mansion house and new build flats. It is situated in Murrayfield, long established as one of the most desirable suburbs of Edinburgh. Situated just over a mile from the city centre, the area is convenient for access out of town to the airport. There are excellent road links and regular buses run frequently in both directions. The area is particularly popular with families, with schools including St. George's, Mary Erskine's, Stuart's Melville, Fettes College and The Edinburgh Academy all within easy reach. Murrayfield Golf Course is only a couple of minutes walk and Ravelston Golf Club is also within easy walking distance. There is a number of other sporting and leisure facilities also close by, including the Murrayfield Ice Rink and picturesque walks along the Water of Leith. There is a good range of local shops in Roseburn and the Craigleith Retail Park is a short car journey.
33/13 Kinellan Gardens is a superb Penthouse apartment set within the peaceful grounds of the former Kinellan House. The carefully designed layout of the property offers excellent space and flexible accommodation. There is an abundance of natural light throughout the day and a high standard of quality and finish is evident throughout. The Penthouse is accessed via a shared stairwell with lift. Once inside there is a large central hallway from which all of the accommodation radiates. The large drawing room benefits from direct access onto the balcony, as does the kitchen. The principal bedroom has a dressing room and en suite bathroom. There is a second bedroom, a further double bedroom, study, utility room, shower room and formal dining room.
There are three private underground parking spaces and a useful lockable store. There are magnificent views from the balcony over the landscaped grounds of Kinellan House, jointly owned by the properties, to which there is shared access.
Master bedroom
2 Further double bedrooms
Sitting room
Dining room
Shower room
Utility room
More information from this agent
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Market Info
Disclaimer - Property reference 329754. The information displayed about this property comprises a property advertisement. Rightmove.co.uk makes no warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of the advertisement or any linked or associated information, and Rightmove has no control over the content. This property advertisement does not constitute property particulars. The information is provided and maintained by Savills, Edinburgh Country. Please contact the selling agent or developer directly to obtain any information which may be available under the terms of The Energy Performance of Buildings (Certificates and Inspections) (England and Wales) Regulations 2007 or the Home Report if in relation to a residential property in Scotland.
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Map data ©OpenStreetMap contributors.


text:
Weather Underground midday recap for Sunday, May 04, 2014
An area of low pressure moved across the Pacific Northwest on Sunday, while a separate low pressure system drifted across the Northeast.
A cold frontal boundary extended from northern California to the upper Intermountain West on Sunday as unsettled weather moved across the northwestern corner of the country. A cluster of showers and snow showers developed over northeast Montana and northwest North Dakota, while scattered snow showers moved across the northern Rockies. An onshore flow from the Pacific also ushered rainy weather across western Washington, western Oregon and parts of northern California, while moderate to heavy snow showers moved across the Cascades. Quillayute, Wash., reported a midday total of 0.69 inches of rain, while Shelton, Wash., reported a midday total of 0.67 inches of rain. High pressure kept conditions clear across the Desert Southwest and the southern Plains, as temperatures ranged between the 80s and 90s across the region. Enid, Okla., recorded a midday high of 98 degrees, while Childress, Texas, recorded a midday high of 97 degrees.
A separate frontal boundary extended from the central Plains to the Mid-Atlantic on Sunday. A low pressure system along the eastern side of the frontal boundary pushed rainy weather across the eastern Great Lakes, the northern Mid-Atlantic and New England. Whitefield, N.H., reported a midday total of 0.60 inches of rain, while Fort Drum, N.Y., reported a midday total of 0.47 inches of rain. High pressure over the Gulf of Mexico kept conditions clear across the Gulf Coast and the Southeast on Sunday.
Temperatures in the Lower 48 states Sunday have ranged from a morning low of 23 degrees at Langdon, N.D. to a midday high of 98 degrees at Alva, Okla.


text:
When I discuss Silverlight 1.1 with ISVs, they almost universally ask what WPF can do that Silverlight 1.1 can't. Right now, it's hard to provide a straightforward answer to this question, so I'm going attempt to clear up some of the mystery by porting a WPF I wrote to Silverlight 1.1 and reporting on what breaks in the process.
The demo app I wrote includes most of the WPFisms I've grown to know and love (styles, templates, data binding, animation, etc.), and it makes connections to external web services to download reasonably complex object graphs and render map images.
It'll be quite interesting to see which features do and do not work in Silverlight 1.1. I'll begin by getting a development workstation set up to support this, and I'll then proceed to add features that touch the various namespaces under System.Windows.
Also, I'll verify my work by testing on OSX and seeing what does or does not work on that platform. It'll take me a little while to get going, but I do commit that I'll keep at it pretty regularly in the near term as I've have several ISVs that have asked be about this and are basing architecture decisions on the outcome of what I find.
So, if you're interested in this topic, fasten your seatbeats...we'll see how it goes together.


text:
SARNIA, ONT. - Blue Water Bridge Canada officials are closely monitoring news out of Washington about looming "sequester" budget cuts and their potential impact at the southern Ontario border crossing.
The Washington Post has reported that the U.S. Customs and Border Protection department would take a $754-million hit from the budget cuts set to begin Friday, unless politicians in the U.S. capital reach a deal.
Overtime pay would be cut at the borders and agents furloughed up to 14 days this year, potentially causing delays for travellers and goods at the border crossings, according to the Post.


text:
If an item you ordered from TextbookRush does not meet your expectations due to an error on our part, simply fill out a return request and then return it by mail within 30 days of ordering it for a full refund of item cost.
Learn more about our returns policy
Limited time offer:
Get the first one free! (?)
All the information you need in one place! Each Study Brief is a summary of one specific subject; facts, figures, and explanations to help you learn faster.
List price: $17.99Copyright year: 2005Publisher: HarperCollins PublishersPublication date: 5/3/2005Binding: HardcoverPages: 32Size: 10.50" wide x 10.50" long x 0.50" tall Weight: 0.946Language: English
Seymour Simon has been called "the dean of the [children's science book] field" by the New York Times. He has written more than 200 books for young readers and is the recipient of the Science Books & Films Key Award for Excellence in Science Books, the Empire State Award for excellence in literature for young people, and the Educational Paperback Association Jeremiah Ludington Award. Mr. Simon lives in Great Neck, New York.
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text:
Bionaire Odor Grabber Litter Box
We've reported on air purifiers plenty of times, including a recent indepth IQAir review using a handheld laser particle reader. But what about air quality for pets? The recently announced Bionaire Odor Grabber Litter Box uses a built-in electronic air filtration coupled with a extra quiet fan to keep Mr. Frisky's bathroom visit within the confines of the litter box and not wafting throughout the house. A great idea, as any cat owner would attest.
But will someone redesign the exterior, please? It's a bit too Master Chief helmet-y for us.
[via Shangai Daily]


text:
[ from developer's site FAQ ]
This is a SILC network client
Q: What is SILC?
A: SILC (Secure Internet Live Conferencing) is a protocol which
provides secure conferencing services in the Internet over insecure
channel. SILC is IRC like although internally they are very different.
Biggest similarity between SILC and IRC is that they both provide
conferencing services and that SILC has almost same commands as
IRC. Other than that they are nothing alike.
Biggest differences are that SILC is secure what IRC is not in any
way. The network model is also entirely different compared to IRC.
WWW: http://www.silcnet.org/
No installation instructions: this port has been deleted.
The package name of this deleted port was: silc-client
PKGNAME: silc-client
distinfo: There is no distinfo for this port.
NOTE: FreshPorts displays only information on required and default dependencies. Optional dependencies are not covered.
===> The following configuration options are available for silc-client-1.1.8:
ICONV=on: Encoding conversion support via iconv
IPV6=on: IPv6 protocol support
PERL=on: Perl scripting language support
PTHREADS=off: Enable pthreads support
===> Use 'make config' to modify these settings
Number of commits found: 89
Remove non staged ports without pending PR from net-p2p, net and news
Reset maintainership on nonstaged ports
With hat: portmgr
Remove all the bootstrap files (.bs) from the plists.
Starting with perl 5.20, they're not installed any more if empty,
and on FreeBSD, they're (always ?) empty.
Submitted by: mat
Exp-Run by: antoine
Sponsored by: Absolight
Add NO_STAGE all over the place in preparation for the staging support (cat:
- convert to the new perl5 framework
- convert USE_GMAKE to Uses
Approved by: portmgr (bapt@, blanket)
- Remove MAKE_JOBS_SAFE variable
Approved by: portmgr (bdrewery)
Fix with bmake(1)
- Convert USE_ICONV=yes to USES=iconv
- Change USE_GNOME=pkgconfig|gnomehack to USES=pathfix|pkgconfig while here
Reviewed by: zeising
Finish converting the whole ports tree to USES=pkgconfig
* Update the glib to 2.34.3 and gtk20 to 2.24.17 and gtk30 to 3.6.4 which
are the latest stable releases.
* Update vala to the newest stable release 0.18.1, also update a few ports
in the gtk/gnome stack.
* The c++ bindings ports for glib, atk, gconf, etc, have now USE_GNOME toggles.
* Remove pkg-config run depends from glib20 and freetype2. This doesn't
eliminate pkg-config run dependency completely, a second phase is needed
and is planned.
* Support for .:run. and .:build. for USE_GNOME components was added.
Currently only libxml2 and libxslt support this mechanism.
* Updates of the telepathy stack and empathy.
* Trim makefile headers, convert ports to new options, trim off library
versions for some ports.
* Fix other ports so they build with the new glib version.
Thanks to miwi and crees for helping out with some exp-runs.
Approved by: portmgr (miwi & bapt)
Obtained from: gnome team repo
Fix index build when perl is not there yet.
PR: ports/174576
Submitted by: bdrewery@
Rename OPTIMIZED_ASM option to just ASM. This one has a description
in bsd.options.desc.mk.
Fix build on i386 by partially reverting r307565. Only a partial revert
because I worked around a bug where ${PERL} was not recognized after switching
to new style options.
Feature safe: yes
Remove unnecessary quotes.
Noticed by: crees
Feature safe: yes
Convert to new options.
Avoid using != in assignment.
Feature safe: yes
- Add LDFLAGS to CONFIGURE_ENV and MAKE_ENV (as it was done with LDFLAGS)
- Fix all ports that add {CPP,LD}FLAGS to *_ENV to modify flags instead
Submitted by: myself
Exp-runs by: pav
Approved by: pav
- Get Rid MD5 support
Remove dead master sites.
Noticed by: The Distilator
Forced commit to note that the previous work was done by
Make net/silc-irssi-plugin work with the newer versions of irssi. The fixes
were taken from Debian bug report #522080 and #577501. The work to fix this was
done by Murad Khan (firstname.lastname@example.com) and sent to me privately.
PR: ports/140073
Submitted by: Nathaniel Filardo <email@example.com>
Conditionally uses Perl, so needs WANT_PERL before inclusion of
Hat: portmgr
- Update to 1.1.8 to address security vulnerabilities and general bug fixes.
PR: ports/137421
Submitted by: Marc Lagrange <firstname.lastname@example.com>
- Mark my ports as MAKE_JOBS_SAFE (with the exception of nethack34-gnome which
is MAKE_JOBS_UNSAFE).
- Register conflicts on other silc ports (except silc-server), they all
install libsilcclient.
- Update to 1.1.7
Update to 1.1.6
- Update to 1.1.5
Enable perl and iconv support.
PR: ports/126771
Submitted by: Matt <firstname.lastname@example.com>
Update CONFIGURE_ARGS for how we pass CONFIGURE_TARGET to configure script.
Specifically, newer autoconf (> 2.13) has different semantic of the
configure target. In short, one should use --build=CONFIGURE_TARGET
instead of CONFIGURE_TARGET directly. Otherwise, you will get a warning
and the old semantic may be removed in later autoconf releases.
To workaround this issue, many ports hack the CONFIGURE_TARGET variable
so that it contains the ``--build='' prefix.
To solve this issue, under the fact that some ports still have
configure script generated by the old autoconf, we use runtime detection
in the do-configure target so that the proper argument can be used.
Changes to Mk/*:
- Add runtime detection magic in bsd.port.mk
Fix patch to address the breakage when converters/recode is installed.
PR: ports/125986
Submitted by: Armin Pirkovitsch <email@example.com>
Stop net/silc-irssi-plugin from installing an unnecessary symlink which
causes duplicate /me messages to appear.
Bump PORTREVISION of net/silc-irssi-plugin because of this.
Update to 1.1.4 - security fix.
Approved by: garga (mentor)
Update my address.
Approved by: garga (mentor)
- Update to 1.1.3
Submitted by: Wesley Shields <firstname.lastname@example.com> (maintainer)
- Fix build when converters/recode installed is
Submitted by: Vaclav Haisman <email@example.com>
Approved by: maintainer
- Update to 1.1.2
Submitted by: Wesley Shields <email@example.com> (maintainer)
- Set --mandir and --infodir in CONFIGURE_ARGS if the configure script
supports them. This is determined by running ``configure --help'' in
do-configure target and set the shell variable _LATE_CONFIGURE_ARGS
which is then passed to CONFIGURE_ARGS.
- Remove --mandir and --infodir in ports' Makefile where applicable
Few ports use REINPLACE_CMD to achieve the same effect, remove them too.
- Correct some manual pages location from PREFIX/man to MANPREFIX/man
- Define INFO_PATH where necessary
- Document that .info files are installed in a subdirectory relative to
PREFIX/INFO_PATH and slightly change add-plist-info to use INFO_PATH and
subdirectory detection.
PR: ports/111470
Approved by: portmgr
Discussed with: stas (Mk/*), gerald (info related stuffs)
Tested by: pointyhat exp run
Reassign to submitter of last 2 PRs.
Approved by: previous maintainer
Hat: portmgr
- Update to 1.1.1
PR: ports/114135
Submitted by: Wesley Shields <firstname.lastname@example.com>
Approved by: maintainer timeout (16 days)
- Update to 1.1
- Install manual page
- Remove USE_PERL5, use REINPLACE_CMD instead
- Remove PKGDEINSTALL hacks. Replace the same functionality with
Makefile and pkg-plist equivlents
- Remove OPTIMIZED_CFLAGS knob, it is no use. -O2 is always on according
to pointyhat build log
- Remove unnecessary OSVERSION check for 4.x
- Remove installation of unnecessary documents (TODO, CHANGES, etc.)
- Use DOCSDIR, DATADIR macros
PR: ports/113367
Submitted by: Wesley Shields <wxs at atarininja.org>
Approved by: maintainer timeout (16 days)
- Update to 1.0.3
PR: ports/108075
Submitted by: Evgueni V. Gavrilov <aquatique-ports at rambler.ru> (maintainer)
Bump PORTREVISION on glib12/gtk12 consumer ports to ease the upgrade path.
Discussed with: kris
Approved by: portmgr (implicit)
Purge the last vestiges of the (really) old autotools world order.
Since all these items were commented out, this is a null-op commit.
Approved by: portmgr (implicit)
Approved by: krion@
Replace ugly "@unexec rmdir %D... 2>/dev/null || true" with @dirrmtry
Approved by: krion@
PR: ports/88711 (related)
At Kris's request, back out the MACHINE_ARCH spelling correction until
after 5.4-RELEASE.
Assist getting more ports working on AMD64 by obeying the
Ports Collection documentation and use 'ARCH' rather than 'MACHINE_ARCH'.
Fix plist.
PR: ports/77442
Submitted by: maintainer
Fix build
Submitted by: krion, tobez
Reported by: cluster via kris
Approved by: maintainer
BROKEN: Broken pkg-plist
- Change maintainer's email
PR: ports/65602
Submitted by: maintainer
Submitted by: maintainer, trevor
Bump PORTREVISION on all ports that depend on gettext to aid with upgrading.
(Part 1)
- Fix build on AMD64
Noticed by: kris via bento
Approved by: maintainer
- Update to version 1.0.1
Submitted by: maintainer
- Update to version 1.0
Submitted by: maintainer
- Update to version 0.9.16
Submitted by: maintainer
- Fix install on ARCH != i386
Submitted by: maintainer
Reported by: bento via kris
- Reenable perl stuff of net/silc-client
(pointed out by William Dell Wisner <email@example.com>)
- Bump PORTREVISION
Submitted by: maintainer
- Update to version 0.9.15
Submitted by: Evgueni V. Gavrilov <email@example.com> (maintainer)
- Update to 0.9.14
Submitted by: maintainer
- Update to 0.9.13
Submitted by: maintainer
- Fix build package
- Bump PORTREVISION
Submitted by: maintainer
- Fix plist of perl stuff
- Bump PORTREVISION
Submitted by: maintainer
- Bump PORTREVISION, forgotten by previous commit.
Pointed out by: osa
- Add patch for recoding actions in 8-bit terminals (obtained
from silc CVS)
Submitted by: maintainer
- Build non-threaded version by default
Submitted by: Evgueni V. Gavrilov <firstname.lastname@example.com> (maintainer)
- Update to 0.9.12.1
- Give maintainership to Evgueni V. Gavrilov
Submitted by: krion, Evgueni V. Gavrilov <firstname.lastname@example.com>
Drop maintainership
libtool uber-patch
* kill devel/libtool and move to devel/libtool13, upgrading to 1.3.5
* upgrade repo-copied devel/libtool14 to 1.4.3
* break out libltdl into its own separate port
* move to version-numbered binaries/scripts (ie: there is *no* 'libtool'
any more -- USE_LIBTOOL and USE_LIBTOOL_VER are your friends)
Approved by: portmgr (kris) - for the bsd.port.mk hooks
Tested by: bento 4-exp builds (repeatedly)
Remove USE_GNOMENG.
Sanitize MASTER_SITES
Submitted by: fenner's distfiles survey
Emergency update to 0.9.10.1: previous port version is incompatible
with current SILC protocol
Prompted by: many
Approved by: portmgr (self)
Sanitize MASTER_SITES
Submitted by: fenner's distfile survey
Update to 0.9.5.1
Submitted by: Thomas Vogt <firstname.lastname@example.com>
Convert USE_GLIB into USE_GNOMENG+USE_GNOME.
Update to 0.9.4
Update to 0.9.2
Update to 0.8.6
Update MASTER_SITES as wiretapped.net renamed their servers
o Update to 0.7.6.1 o Add ipv6 support
Update to 0.7.3
o Update to 0.7.2 o Have WITHOUT_OPTIMIZED_ASM actually work when ARCH!=i386
Update to 0.7.1
o Update to 0.6.6 o Depend on silc-doc instead of installation documentation
by itself o Update PKG{,DE}INSTALL: do not create/remove modules directory.
There are no modules for BSD platforms yet
o add more MASTER_SITES o add PKG{,DE}INSTALL scripts to handle: - empty
directories - configuration files o do not create unnecessary directories
o Add port silc-client version 0.6.4: Secure Internet Live Conferencing
(SILC) network client o With invaluable feedback from debolaz during our
all-nighter porting work :)
Servers and bandwidth provided byNew York Internet, SuperNews, and RootBSD
1 vulnerabilities affecting 7 ports have been reported in the past 14 days
* - modified, not new
All vulnerabilities


text:
Pope Francis, who has acknowledged being "a disaster" when it comes to technology, said on Friday that the Internet, social networks and text messages were "a gift of God" if used wisely.
"Emails, text messages, social networks and chats can also be fully human forms of communication," the pope said in his message for the Roman Catholic Church's World Day of Communications.
"It is not technology which determines whether or not communication is authentic, but rather the human heart and our capacity to use wisely the means at our disposal," said.
Last year, the 79-year-old Francis told a young girl he was embarrassed to admit that he did not know how to use computers and was an overall "disaster" with technology. He has also said smartphones should be banned from the family dinner and children should not have computers in their rooms.
Whether by divine providence or human coincidence, Francis' message was released as he was meeting with the head of a company whose brand is synonymous with those products – Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook.


text:
Jane by Design: Volume 1
- (Subtitled, Widescreen, 2PC)
- Format: DVD
- Rated: TV14
- Release Date: 3/27/2012
|your cart is empty
For anyone who's ever had a passion for fashion, ABC Family's JANE BY DESIGN is tailor-made fun! Jane Quimby (Erica Dasher) is leading the ultimate double life. Jane, a regular high school student, applies for a coveted internship at fashion house Donovan Decker. Through a case of mistaken identity, Jane lands a job as the assistant to Gray Chandler Murray (Andie MacDowell), a high-powered executive. Only her best friend Billy (Nick Roux) knows the truth about Jane's two lives. Will she be able to juggle a life of high school and high fashion or will they come crashing together at the most inopportune time? Complete with 10 episodes - relive all the drama, romance and excitement. JANE BY DESIGN: VOLUME ONE is the must-have accessory of the year!


text:
According to the 60 Millions Consommateurs, which is published by the National Consumers' Institute (a government-funded organization somewhat similar to Consumer Reports in the U.S.), their researchers tested 10 e-cigarettes. This "report" comes after the French government announced in May this year its intent to ban electronic cigarette use in public places, which has outraged French e-cigarette consumers and sellers.
After the news broke, Clive Bates, former head of ASH-UK and a tobacco harm reduction advocate, announced on his blog that he had issued a complaint about the Daily Mail article to the Press Complaints Commission .
"There are many flaws in the Mail article, mostly shoddy health journalism and lack of balance or proportion, and life is too short to go into them all," Bates wrote in a post titled "Lazy, stupid, wrong – the Mail can't stop itself."
The web version of the article has since been re-titled "E-cigarettes contain chemicals that make some 'as harmful as normal tobacco'."
On Tuesday, the magazine posted another article with a few more details about its test results, which allowed experts to partially evaluate the findings.
MSN.com reported an interview with Drexel University Professor Igor Burstyn, who told them he is skeptical of the study. The article was titled "Rumor: E-cigarettes are as harmful as the real things," and it concluded that the rumor was "unconfirmed" and that "the bulk of research says they're much safer."
According to the MSN article:
Dr. Burstyn recently published the largest, most comprehensive assessment of research on E-cigarette safety released thus far. (Peering through the mist: What does the chemistry of contaminants in electronic cigarettes tell us about health risks?) That meant looking at dozens of studies done all over the world involving more than 9,000 subjects. His conclusion: "Current data do not indicate that exposures to vapors from contaminants in electronic cigarettes warrant a concern." A conclusion supported by other health researchers in Palgrave Macmillan, a journal of public health policy.After reviewing all available information, the Scientific Director for The Consumer Advocates for Smoke-free Alternatives, Dr. Carl V Phillips, surmised that "it is almost certain that they used faulty methods, overheating in particular, because that is what produces high levels of acrolein. In previous studies, high levels of formaldehyde have been identified as lab errors, not output from the e-cigarettes. As for the metals, Burstyn has already explained that without knowing what molecular form they were in, the information is useless."
"This is why real scientific publications include a methods section," he continued. "We basically have no idea what they did, though it is pretty clear their methods were faulty to the point of this being almost completely junk. The 'almost' refers to the fact that perhaps high levels of acetaldehyde are created by certain flavorings. But, again, since we have no idea what they tested or how, we can make no sense of what was reported."
Dr. Phillips concluded, "this is more of a marketing con than a scientific study."
"The same chemicals were tested in 12 brands of e-cigarettes in a study by Goniewicz and coworkers that was published earlier this year," added Dr. Konstantinos Farsalinos, a researcher at Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center in Athens-Greece, in a commentary on Ecigarette-Research.com. "So, nothing new was tested in the French study. More importantly, the results of the French study are almost identical to those of Goniewicz."
"I cannot explain why worldwide media refer to this study as if it is the most important discovery about e-cigarettes," he wrote.
In the MSN article, Burstyn said his professional research has even informed his personal life, as he told them that he's worked hard to convince his wife to quit traditional cigarettes in favor of the newer e-versions. "Smoking a regular cigarette is like running on the highway in flip-flops," he said. "E-cigs is taking a taxi."


text:
FB video of stepdad abusing 3 year old going viral….upsetting users…mad at video maker
A Facebook video showing a three-year-old boy being abused by his stepfather has angered many users of the social networking site.
Police have picked up a mechanic in connection with a child abuse case following a release of a video showing an adult man physically abusing a toddler on social networking site ' Facebook', yesterday.
The 32-year-old suspect was arrested by the police following the release of the video which was believed to have made several days ago.
The nearly nine-minute video which was first posted by Facebook user, 'Vasu Amaithi Padai' has since received 17, 278 shares during press time, with many users expressing outrage and demanded the police to take action against the individual and the video-maker.


text:
The All Clear water bottle from Camelbak has a UV light in the cap that purifies water in 60 seconds. You simply fill the bottle from a stream, tap, or spigot, replace the cap and turn on the UV light, and you'll have safe drinking water in 60 seconds. The All Clear utilizes proven UV technology to effectively neutralize microbiological contaminants. The lamp is protected inside an impact and weather-resistant cap. It's powered by a rechargeable battery that can purify 80 cycles (or 16 gallons) of water between charges. The bottle is $99. Check the product page for online retailers.
Pure Drinking Water Anywhere with the Camelbak All Clear UV Water Bottle
February 13, 2012, 12:57 pm
What's the advantage of this over the SteriPEN system?
February 13, 2012, 3:09 pm
I'm sorry to be the one to bring this up (as usual), but isn't this bottle just SLIGHTLY overpriced at $99? I mean, it's just a plastic bottle with a light and a rechargeable battery, right? I would think this bottle would sell like (sterilized) wheat cakes if it were priced at, say, $49 or $59…
February 13, 2012, 8:25 pm
Make it solar powered for the recharger and I will buy one!
February 13, 2012, 11:36 pm
Here you go Paul: http://www.steripen.com/-adventurer-opti-solar-charger 😉
The prices on these are high in general: the light isn't anything standard, and it has to be in a quartz-glass (IIRC) enclosure. So it's expensive materials, in low-quanitity items. Still the SteriPen version with the bottle (and pre-filter, and carrying case…) is $80, not $100. Slightly more clunky to carry, in that it's two pieces, but on the other hand you can purify water in nearly any container. And you don't have to buy that model with the bottle.
February 14, 2012, 8:05 pm
I've got one and it kicks ass! I didn't like the Steripen products because for nearly the same money, that bulb thing is sticking out and can easily be crushed with my clumsiness.
I travel to foreign 2nd/3rd world situations often enough that getting sick from drinking hotel/restaurant water is likely. It's totally worth not getting sick for $100.
February 14, 2012, 9:17 pm
This is very cool. Would be nice to see a review of this item.
Next post: SCOTTEVEST Chloe Hoodie Review
Previous post: The Lexus GS Super Bowl Event Trip Report


text:
I disagree, I bought my pitch (OK, so pretty much every component has failed in one way or another, but they were all supposed to be good components, but must have been a friday afternoon bike!) which was a pretty good spec for £1400 12 months ago.
I bought my Pitch for £999 in 2009.
It now wears coil Lyriks that cost me £30 (yes thirty!) after a but if trading, a £29 Cane Creek 110 heardset, Hope hubs on SUN rims that cost under £100 (under £40 if you include the sale of the OE ones) the back one is brand new.
The High Rolllers were under 20 for the pair, the Magura Louises were expensive at about £120 the set in about 2007 though, but that's only Deore money really...... The drivetrain, stem and seatpost are all OE l, the saddle was £15 and the wider bars about the same.
If I broke it up and sold it, I'd virtually get my money back.
Like I said, a bit of skill and persistence gets a nice bike for little money. The Lyriks weren't even for sale. I just asked the owner if I could buy them!
Yep. My forks were 1/4 of the price of your pedals.


text:
Free Shipping
Orders of $25.00 or more will be shipped our Standard Shipping option and the shipping is completely FREE.
Learn more
Free Shipping
Orders of $25.00 or more will be shipped our Standard Shipping option and the shipping is completely FREE. Learn more
|Buy DVD
Customers Who Bought This Product Also Bought
Featuring "Steamboat Willie" And Other Great Mickey Classics.
Celebrate one of the world's most famous characters in this timeless collection of Mickey's most memorable cartoons.
Vintage Mickey features the classic "Steamboat Willie," which marked the first appearance of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, as well as other landmark animated shorts, including the Academy Award®-nominated "Mickey's Orphans" and "Building A Building." It's an exciting, fun and wonderful look back at the funny little mouse who became a family favorite all around the world.
Animated Shorts:
- Steamboat Willie
- Plane Crazy
- The Karnival Kid
- The Birthday Party
- The Castaway
- Mickey's Orphans
- Mickey's Revue
- Building A Building
- Mickey's Steam-Roller
- Length
- Rating NR
- Released:
- Added Mar 15 2005
- Production Year 2005
- Empire SKU 673854
- UPC Code 786936287943
- Studio Disney / Buena Vista
- Packaging Keep
- Number of Discs 1
- Disc SS-SL
Features Not Specified
- Audio
English Dolby Digital Surround
- Video
Standard 1.33:1 B&W


text:
The reader's reaction to your subject line determines whether or not your email gets opened. If you've been referred by someone the reader knows, put that name before your own: "(via Jane Doe) Kristine Oller re: speaking at Voice 2010." Also, give the reader a heads-up about the topic of your note. And please, if specific wording in the subject line has been requested, use it. That can make the difference between your email landing in the proper inbox or not.
2) Communicate clearly and carefully.
The greatest weakness of email is that it lacks tone of voice. Always remember that the subtleties of spoken communication are lost in an email, so the reader, especially if he or she doesn't know you very well, could misinterpret as being sarcastic a comment that you intended to be jovial.
3) Use a similar salutation in your response.
When replying to an email, you can enhance rapport with the sender by matching his or her salutation. If the sender opened with "Hi, Kristine," then reply with a "Hi" or "Hello" or "Howdy." If the sender was more formal, be the same. Some folks habitually compose emails without a salutation, but if you do not have an established relationship with the reader, that approach can come across as brusque or too casual.
4) Be brief.
Don't scare the reader! Very often, emails go unread simply because at first glance their length is intimidating. You never want the reader's reaction to be: "I don't have time for this. I'll read it later" (aka never). The shorter your email, the greater the chances it will get read.
5) Divide a long message.
When you have a lot of information to communicate, divide your email into two sections. Above your signature, write a brief note telling the reader what is in the text you've included below your signature. You can even enumerate the topics. For example:
Hi, Jim.
Below you will find info on the four things we need you to do before the shoot:
1) Additions to the call sheet
2) Preparations for lunch
3) Questions for Stacy about parking
4) Stuff needed from Smart & Final
Let me know if you have any questions.
(Your signature here)
(The supplementary text here)
6) Use short line lengths.
If you use short line lengths (approximately 3 to 4 inches long, as in the sample above), the reader can easily skim your email without scrolling horizontally or adjusting the view window.
7) Write short paragraphs.
Likewise, keeping your paragraphs short and separated with a blank line enhances the visual appeal and enables quick reading.
8) Use multiple-choice questions.
Frame your requests or suggestions as multiple-choice questions: "Would you prefer that I drop off a CD of my reel or send you a link to it via email?" Multiple-choice questions subconsciously prompt the reader to ask, "How should I answer this?" rather than "Should I answer this?"
9) Include a signature.
Most email programs allow you to automatically add a customized signature to every email you send. It should include, at the least, your name, contact number, email address, and a live link to wherever your reel, photos, and résumé can be found on the Web. Use it consistently so the reader always has easy access to your contact information at each stage of communication.
10) Respect the BCC.
A great way to make sure people open and respond to your emails is to be mindful of how they are communicating with you. If you have been BCC'd (blind carbon copied) on an email, that probably means the sender wanted you to be aware of the information without inviting you in as an active participant in the communication that's going on. Be aware of that boundary, respect the sender's wishes, and don't let on that you were privy to the BCC'd correspondence.
Kristine Oller is an author, career strategist, and founder of TheActorsLibrary.com.


text:
My Nonprofit Reviews
Review for Arts For All, New York, NY, USA
Arts for All is a wonderful organization, started by young artists committed to bringing arts to underserved public school students in New York City. As the arts coordinator for a K-12 public school in Jackson Heights, Queens, I appreciate the willingness to work with us on every step of our partnership--they never come in with pre-conceived ideas and are always willing to create opportunities that work for our student population. We have never been disappointed with their participation.
More Feedback
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
their willingness to come up with creative solutions to whatever I ask of their volunteers. They bring quality theater to our school and get us fantastic tickets to theater outside the school. They have provided artists for workshops & all kinds of help
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every six months
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?


text:
EDMONTON - Ryan Smyth left the Kinsmen Twin Arenas with a heavy heart Wednesday afternoon.
The Edmonton Oilers winger knew both Karlis Skrastins and Ruslan Salei, who were killed in a plane crash in Russia earlier in the day.
The three were former members of the Colorado Avalanche.
"It's shocking to the hockey world for sure," said Smyth, who was at the south side rink skating with a number of Oilers veterans in preparation for the upcoming season. "You see how easily things can be taken away, so you can't take anything for granted when you leave your family and your friends behind. I can't even imagine what their family and friends are going through right now.
"I played with both Karlis Skrastins and Ruslan Salei and Brad McCrimmon played with my older brother. It's a sad day for sure."
Skrastins, Salei and McCrimmon were members of the Lokomotiv Yaroslavl team who perished when their plane crashed shortly after takeoff on Wednesday.
The club was on its way to Minsk to open its Kontinental Hockey League campaign. McCrimmon was the team's head coach.
Smyth played with Skrastins and Salei after being traded by the Oilers during the 2006-2007 season and signing with the Avalanche the following year.
He spent two seasons in Colorado before being dealt to the Los Angeles Kings. He was traded back to the Oilers, per request, this off-season.
"We walked into the rink this morning and everyone was talking about it, for sure," Smyth said. "It put a damper on things, but it makes you realize that we are blessed to be able to come the rink every day and just be thankful for what you got."
Reports out of Russia said the Yak-42 aircraft failed to gain enough height after leaving the runway and collided with a navigation beacon, crashing roughly two kilometers from Yaroslavl's Tunoshna airport.
Considering how much time NHL teams spend in the air during the season, the tragedy had some players thinking about the inherent risks they take getting on a plane.
"It's in the forefront now," Smyth said. "Every time you step on the plane and travel from city to city, you realize how important those pilots are and what they go through, and the few extra minutes that they need to take to make sure everything is safe, you're receptive to it."
The KHL was formed in 2008 and features teams mainly based in Russia.
Since its inception, the league has attempted to lure European players back from the NHL with lucrative contracts.
A number of North American players have also gone over to play in the league.
McCrimmon, a former assistant with the New York Islanders, Calgary Flames, Atlanta Thrashers and, most recently, Detroit Red Wings, was in his first year as head coach of Lokomotiv Yaroslavl.
"I had chance in '05 during the lockout to play in Russia and I opted not to go," Smyth said. "We enjoy the game and we love to play the game whether it's here or overseas. We try to make an honest living just like everybody else and going over there, they go over to play great hockey.
"There is some great hockey over there. It's a different way of life for sure, and it's unfortunate for their families something like this happened."


text:
After more than 50 years, desegregation still an issue in Ark.
3 school districts, state at odds over payments
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - More than a half-century after federal troops escorted nine black students into an all-white school, efforts to desegregate Little Rock's classrooms are at another turning point.
The state wants to end its long-running payments for desegregation programs, but three school districts that receive the money say they need it to continue key programs. And a federal judge has accused the schools of delaying desegregation so they can keep receiving an annual infusion of $70 million.
A federal appeals court will hear arguments tomorrow from both sides. The judges are expected to decide eventually whether Arkansas still has to make the payments and whether two of the districts should remain under court supervision.
The schools, which serve about 50,000 students, have come a long way since 1957, when the governor and hundreds of protesters famously tried to stop the Little Rock Nine from entering Central High School. But thousands of white and black children still have to be bused to different neighborhoods every day under one of the nation's largest remaining court-ordered desegregation systems.
The districts argue that desegregation should be about giving parents options between good schools, not strictly counting the number of white and black students.
"Anybody can put students on a bus,'' said Bobby Acklin, assistant superintendent for desegregation for the North Little Rock School District. "It doesn't matter to me who's in the school, as long as we have a good program.''
State lawmakers have long derided the payments, and Governor Mike Beebe and other officials have pushed to end the practice, too.
The battle over school desegregation persisted for decades after the civil rights movement. In 1982, the city schools sued two neighboring districts and the state for not doing enough to help with desegregation.
Two years later, a federal judge ruled that those districts had wrongfully separated white and black students. In 1989, the schools and the state reached a settlement that required large payments to the Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Pulaski County districts. It is still in effect.
Some Little Rock schools remain as segregated as the neighborhoods around them. And achieving racial balance is becoming more difficult as families leave the suburbs that supply white students to schools in majority-black city neighborhoods.
The settlement did establish popular magnet schools in urban Little Rock, but the money has also been a source of controversy. District administrators have fought over how to spend it.
State Attorney General Dustin McDaniel has alleged that the districts use desegregation funding elsewhere in their budgets.
In May, a federal judge accused the North Little Rock and Pulaski County districts of delaying desegregation to keep getting state money.
US District Judge Brian Miller pointed to problems with student achievement and discipline, particularly in Pulaski County, a suburban district that takes in black students from Little Rock and North Little Rock and sends white children to both.
Margie Powell, head of the court-appointed Office of Desegregation Monitoring, said the districts "got addicted to the money'' rather than finding ways to pay for magnet schools and transfers on their own.
"I certainly understand their fear,'' Powell said. "But years ago, we told them, 'You guys need to start thinking about . . . how you're going to survive without 'deseg' money.' ''
District leaders said they can't support the same programs without help.
"We need the money,'' Acklin said, explaining that it pays for initiatives that government monitors have said must be done "to balance the playing field.''
Many parents have stayed in Little Rock because of the district's six well-regarded magnet schools. But Miller's ruling could change that. District officials have warned of possible cutbacks and teacher layoffs, although it's unlikely that any magnet schools would be closed if the payments are cut off.
Even if the federal appeals court overrules Miller and keeps the state's payments in place, it is not clear how long the payments - and the system they support - will last.
After decades of issuing court orders, judges across the country have shown in recent years that they want to get out of school desegregation, said Wendy Parker, a professor at Wake Forest University in North Carolina.
In other cities with schools that were desegregated by court order, the classrooms eventually went back to reflecting the segregated neighborhoods around them, she said.


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White Zip-Down Chiffon Tank Top
This breezy tank top is your new favorite vacay companion. Cut from airy georgette chiffon, it features a layered hemline and a zip-down neckline. Add denim shorts and comfortable sandals for a perfect look.
- Zip front
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- Imported
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ENGLEWOOD • Josh McDaniels promises that his starters won't be sitting around tonight when the Denver Broncos finish the preseason against the Arizona Cardinals.
For many years, Broncos fans had little reason to care about the preseason finale because Mike Shanahan rested every key player. McDaniels said the starters will play tonight, although they won't be in too long.
"Our guys are going to play," McDaniels said. "They are not going to play into the second half or anything like that, but there are some things that we want to do better than what we have done."
Many NFL veterans sit out the final preseason game, but the Broncos don't have much choice. They also know there is a lot of work to do after an 0-3 start to the preseason.
"Whatever works," receiver Brandon Stokley said. "Whatever Josh thinks is best for the team to get ready for Cincinnati, we're going to do."
Rookie running back Knowshon Moreno might not play. McDaniels said Moreno is probably capable of playing, but he hasn't played since the preseason opener because of a knee injury and the Broncos will be careful with his return.
Even though suspended receiver Brandon Marshall won't play tonight, he was a topic of conversation Wednesday.
Newsday in New York reported the Jets might be interested in trading for Marshall, but McDaniels emphatically shot down those rumors.
"There's no discussions whatsoever taking place between the Denver Broncos and any team in the National Football League regarding Brandon Marshall," McDaniels said. "We're looking forward to having Brandon back on the 6th of September and starting our preparation for Cincinnati with him."
Contact the writer at 476-4891. See our Broncos blog at gazettebroncos.freedomblogging.com


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Man United WILL land Ronaldo or Bale say The Sun & Chelsea turn to Lewandowski
Comment & analysis round-up
Quote of the day: "All the news about my renewal with Real Madrid are false." – Cristiano Ronaldo.
Is Ronaldo heading back to Manchester United?
Cristiano Ronaldo Manchester United return odds tumble after he denies signing new Real Madrid deal (Martin Lipton, Daily Mirror) Cristiano Ronaldo has angrily denied claims he had signed a new Real Madrid contract. The odds tumbled on the 27-year-old making a dramatic return to Manchester United when he tweeted: "All the news about my renewal with Real Madrid are false." United manager David Moyes is hoping he can persuade the Portuguese superstar to return to Old Trafford as he tweaks the title-winning squad he's inherited following Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement, but Ronaldo plans to see out his current deal at the Bernabeu. He has two seasons left on the six-year Real contract signed after his world record £80million move from the Reds to Madrid in 2009. It is understood that Ronaldo's strategy is to run down his contract – allowing him to leave for nothing in 2015 – then demand a £60m signing-on fee from his next club.
United on red alert as Ronaldo denies he has signed a new Madrid contract (Simon Jones, Daily Mail) Cristiano Ronaldo's move back to the Barclays Premier League was a step closer after the £80million forward dismissed reports that he had signed a new contract with Real Madrid. As Sportsmail revealed last month, Manchester United are confident of re-signing the 28-year-old and that view will be strengthened by Ronaldo's public rejection of claims that he is ready to sign a deal to stay at the Bernabeu for the rest of his career.
If not Ronaldo, then Bale for United, say The Sun
Bale of the century (Neil Custis, Sun) Manchester United are ready to smash the world transfer record to prove there is life after Alex Ferguson. The Glazers will hand new boss David Moyes more money than ever before to land Cristiano Ronaldo OR Gareth Bale. Ronaldo yesterday opened the door to a return to Old Trafford by insisting his future at Real Madrid is far from certain. But if he signs a new deal at Real, Moyes is set to splash a record £85million to land Tottenham's double Footballer of the Year Bale. United's American owners are determined the club will continue to be a major European force despite Fergie's retirement.
Cavani too expensive, Chelsea turn to Lewandowski
Chelsea refuse to take part in bid war for £53m Edinson Cavani and turn attentions to Robert Lewandowski (Jason Burt, Daily Telegraph) Chelsea have finally agreed an £18 million deal to sign Germany international André Schürrle, but will not enter a bidding war for Napoli striker Edinson Cavani and are now considering a move for Borussia Dortmund's Robert Lewandowski instead. Cavani is among the targets being pursued by Chelsea as new manager Jose Mourinho is given the funds to strengthen his forward line. It will contain Schürrle, who can play on the left of a three-man attack, after a deal was finally thrashed out with Bayer Leverkusen for the 22-year-old. Telegraph Sport revealed a year ago that Chelsea were bidding for Schürrle, who had been identified as a potential signing by Andre Villas-Boas when he was the club's manager.
Mourinho's dangerous game
Jose Mourinho is playing a dangerous game at Chelsea (Jim White, Daily Telegraph) If nothing else, the new Chelsea methodology is a shrewd way to circumvent FFP. It goes like this: buy up a bus-load of youthful prospects at prices much lower than you would have to pay for a fully formed player. Then get other clubs to run your research and development programme by loaning the youngsters out to see if they are made of the right stuff. If they are not, well you can still probably turn a profit on the original investment by selling them to the borrowing club. But if they are, you bring them back. As a system it can be brilliant. After a season polished by Steve Clarke at the Hawthorns, Romelu Lukaku will return to Stamford Bridge a much more significant – and valuable – prospect. As Mourinho put it, a major signing but at zero apparent cost. Sure, there is nothing new in the methodology: Manchester United have used the loan system to hone players since David Beckham was dispatched to Preston in the mid-Nineties. But in scale and reach, Chelsea have taken it to a new level.
Martinez fights to keep Baines at Everton
Everton ready to make Manchester United target Leighton Baines their highest earner (David Anderson, Daily Mirror) Everton will offer to make Leighton Baines their best-paid player in an attempt to stop him being lured to Manchester United by David Moyes. The Goodison club are aware that outgoing boss Moyes would like to take Baines with him to champions United, where he will spend the summer tweaking the squad he is inheriting from the retiring Alex Ferguson. They want to head off the Scot by offering their England left-back a new deal. Baines, 28, has two years left on a £44,000-a-week contract, and the Toffees are ready to offer him £65k per week to stay.
Gervinho set for Arsenal exit
Gervinho nears Arsenal exit as Marseille confirm interest in winger (Simon Jones, Daily Mail) Marseille have confirmed their interest in signing Arsenal striker Gervinho. The 26-year-old Ivory Coast international cost Arsenal £11m from Lille and has struggled to make an impact in the Premier League. Marseille assistant coach Franck Passi said: 'This is a profile that interests us, yes. We want flank players, with dribbling, passing and scoring and Gervinho has this profile.'
Pellegrini still heading to City
Manchester City not concerned by delay in appointing Manuel Pellegrini (Andy Hunter, Guardian) Manchester City are unconcerned at the delay in appointing Manuel Pellegrini as their new manager and maintain that the arrival of the 59-year-old remains a formality. Pellegrini held talks in Spain last week with City's sporting director, Txiki Begiristain, the chief executive, Ferran Soriano, and the academy head, Brian Marwood, but, while personal terms have been agreed and transfer targets discussed, his appointment has yet to be confirmed. City have refused to comment on whether contractual issues between Pellegrini and his former club Málaga are responsible for the hold-up but are adamant the deal to replace Roberto Mancini with the former Villarreal and Real Madrid coach is not under threat and will be announced shortly.
Can he fix Et? (Martin Blackburn, Sun) Manchester City hope new boss Manuel Pellegrini will help them build something special at the Etihad. And that should be no problem to the man known as 'The Engineer' — if his past achievements are anything to go by. The Chilean, 59, combined the final couple of years of his playing career with studying for a career in civil engineering. Today, back in Santiago, some families boast of living in homes built by the experienced former Real Madrid coach. And, soon after starting his coaching career at Universidad de Chile, he even constructed a summer house for the club physio. Dr Alejandro Orizola — now head of the club's medical team — still enjoys it to this day and claims it was a typical gesture by his close friend.
Who next for Wigan?
Steve McClaren and Owen Coyle lead field to manage Wigan Athletic (Andy Hunter, Guardian) The Wigan Athletic chairman, Dave Whelan, hopes to appoint the club's new manager on Friday with Steve McClaren and Owen Coyle the front-runners to succeed Roberto Martínez. The former England coach McClaren and former Bolton Wanderers manager Coyle are among 15 candidates whom Whelan has interviewed for the position this week. Mike Phelan, who recently left his role as Manchester United's assistant manager, and the United coach René Meulensteen are also under consideration, though Whelan has indicated his preference for an out-of-work candidate. "I expect to announce something," said the Wigan chairman. "I still have two more lads to see. I've seen some great lads, top managers, and it could be we have to speak to one or two of them again."


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Release Date: 2012 |
Album Rating: 4.5I hope my writing did this justice. I don't think a lot of people will care about this one, but hopefully those that do enjoy my take on it. Please, any editing suggestions (or pointing out of mistakes) are always welcome!
hm sounds interesting, is there a stream?
Well written review, pos.
When i was making the Tyketto band page for Sputnik, I had little to none hope that anyone would write anything about them.
Guess I was wrong :-D.
hm sounds interesting, is there a stream?
I have found this link:
The first song to be heard is the eponymous one, if you want to listen to the rest of them, right-click your mouse to the song title and choose "Play".
Digging: Fleurety - The White Death
When i was making the Tyketto band page for Sputnik, I had little to none hope that anyone would write anything about them.
Where's the bio at man?
There's a really good article at wikipedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tyketto
I just uploaded it at "Edit band information".
No! Never use wiki
No! Never use wiki
Why? The article is detailed enough.
If the article isn't appropriate, the mods will dismiss it.
Edit: The article in wiki is taken from the band's official site - http://www.tyketto.de/seiten/index2.htm
On another note, I'm listening to the stream and this is indeed incredibly catchy...
Yeah but the mods aren't going to read the entire thing (let alone know that it's from Wiki). MX doesn't want us using the site because a) it might not be reliable (we joke about it a lot, but a lot of the stuff on Wiki is actually wrong) and b) even if it is credible it's still not official, thus it actually ends up being a (mild) case of plagiarism. Does the band not have an official site with a bio?
Edit: sweet, but my point still stands. Always check official sources first
thanks brother man Voivod for the link...
... we joke about it a lot, but a lot of the stuff on Wiki is actually wrong
haha agreed, I can pay my friend with only a pack of cigarette and a can of beer so as he creates a wiki-page for me and writes all bulshit about me :D
Album Rating: 4.5ZegdO the entire album has been upped to YouTube as well.
@Voivoid - I remember catching these guys opening for Nelson when I was about 13, went out and bought Don't Come Easy the next day. Had they released that in 87' and this and 89 they would have been huge.
Bands: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z


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Designed using quality metal, our decorative items enhance the ambience of your living room and offices. These decorative pieces are considered as best decorative piece with utility for décor of your house. Established in the year 2000, at Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, we, "Bharat Handicraftsâ€ÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂ, are a Limited Liability/Corporation (Privately Held) firm, engaged in manufacturing, supplying and exporting of a beautiful collection of Decorative Handicrafts. The offered range includes Candle Stands, Figurine, Cow and Calf, Visiting Card Holders etc. With an aim to serve our customers with a quality range of Decorative Handicrafts, we have installed superior manufacturing and designing facilities at our premises. Our team of professionals are aware of the latest technological advancements, which help them in designing and developing our handicrafts as per the changing demands of the customers.
The images represent actual product though color of the image and product may slightly differ.


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Need help? Advice?
10-6 EST, m-f
Tweeting high above head in the treetops is a captivating trio of darling birds just waiting for baby to grab, squish, and love. The Treetop Friends Animal Ball Trio by Skip Hop consists of two cute birds and one charming owl, inviting your little guy to hours of play. Perfectly sized for little hands to hold and complete with loops and hooks to attach to your stroller or diaper bag, this triumvirate of soft buddies is ready to go wherever you do.
The Lamaze Play & Grow Flutterbug is loaded with sensory experiences for your baby to explore, and as your baby's motor skills develop, he'll find more ways to play with it.
The Skip Hop Treetop Friends Stroller Bar Activity Toy brings all the fun of the adorable Treetop Friends on the go, with 8 developmental activities to keep baby happy and busy in her stroller or car seat.
Whoozit is a whimsical, smiling character made out of ultra-soft velour. This Baby Whoozit was designed to be a baby-friendly small version of the original Whoozit. It can be attached to most strollers, carriers, and car seats – and is small enough to stuff in your pocket.
The Lamaze Princess Sophie Play and Grow doll is a wonderful first friend for your child!
The Sunny Stroll Arch by Tiny Love has hanging toys that will cause babies to smile, laugh, and get busy grasping at it. It features a baby-activated propeller, a transparent sun prism, a flower mirror, and a rattling butterfly ball with an engaging, crinkly texture. We love how stimulating this arch is for young babies – between the colors, textures, and fabrics, there are a whole lot of things to discover and enjoy.
Thrill your baby with Stretch the Giraffe, a sweet plush character that features lots of fun surprises. This infant toy is brightly-colored and has legs that rattle, crinkle, squeak, and chime to interest kids at a range of ages, from newborn to 2 years old. Attach it to your stroller, carrier, or diaper bag!


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Jobs boost as three firms to hire 465 staff by early 2015
JOBSEEKERS have received a bank holiday boost with the announcement of 465 jobs in Dublin and Cork.
Business outsourcing firm Voxpro is to create 350 new jobs in Cork, while Tesco is hiring 65 staff at a new store in Dun Laoghaire.
In addition, US drug manufacturer BioMarin is expanding its Dublin office, creating 50 new jobs, after gaining European approval for one of its most promising drugs.
It will be recruiting senior accounting, finance, customer service and marketing staff.
Voxpro plans to hire 350 staff before December.
The jobs will be created at the firm's purpose-built Cork complex, working in back-office functions, including administration, accountancy and client support services.
The expansion may not be Voxpro's last this year as the Irish firm has enjoyed surging global demand for its specialist business outsourcing work recently.
Voxpro expects to expand its workforce from 500 to over 1,000 employees by early 2015. The company has operations in Dublin, Cork and San Francisco.
Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Enterprise Minister Richard Bruton confirmed the jobs announcement during a visit to Cork.
Mr Kenny said the announcements were further proof of the strength of Ireland's growing economic recovery.
"This is a great day for Voxpro, a great day for Cork and a great day for Ireland," he said.
Voxpro's client list includes Nest, TravelZoo and Google. It offers services in a dozen languages across four continents.
Meanwhile, the new Tesco outlet in Dun Laoghaire is its 146th store and brings to over 15,000 the total workforce employed by the retail giant in Ireland.
Irish Independent


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A Question of Love and The Detective debut on DVD
Making its U.S. home video debut on May 24 is the French coming-out drama Just a Question of Love (Picture This! Home Video). The romantic film stars Cyrille Thouvenin (Confusion of Genders) and Stéphan Guérin-Tillieé. Also coming out on DVD Tuesday is The Detective (20th Century Fox Home Entertainment), a gritty police drama starring Frank Sinatra. The 1968 film's queer content is rather dated, but it is one of the first Hollywood films to address police brutality and the gay community.


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Stores, and People, Finding Joy in Birds
By OLIVIA J. ABEL
Published: June 13, 1999
NOW that the windows are open, the early-morning chirping of birds is for many Long Islanders a melodious harbinger of summer. But Rudy Flesch wants people to pay closer attention to the birds in their backyards year-round. Most importantly: what do they like to eat?
If you don't know, Mr. Flesch will tell you. He'll recommend a particular seed, perhaps safflower -- which the squirrels tend to avoid -- and the right-size feeder for your yard.
In December, Mr. Flesch and his wife, Ronnie, opened Wild Birds Unlimited in a Mount Sinai shopping center. Featuring a wide array of bird feeders, seed and nature-related gifts, the store represents the third national ''birding'' chain to come to Long Island. In the same way that Starbucks transformed coffee drinking, these shops aim to elevate backyard bird feeding.
''I was always into wildlife photography and I was looking for a business to run when I retire in about five years,'' says Mr. Flesch, 60, who is currently the import manager of a company that produces book binding machinery in Hauppauge. ''When I realized how successful this company was and how much support they give you, it seemed perfect. Especially here on Long Island, where so many interesting birds pass by.''
The bird business is booming. According to the Wild Bird Feeding Institute, the total pounds of bird seed sold nationwide jumped 28 percent in the last fiscal year.
Ray David, founder of Birdwatch America, who runs an annual trade show for wild bird products, says most such merchandise is still sold at lawn and garden stores or supermarkets. But he estimates that the number of outlets nationwide dedicated solely to bird feeding have tripled in the past five or six years to between 1,500 and 2,000.
''It's the result of the maturing of the baby boomers,'' he said. ''Also, people are hunting less.''
According to national surveys conducted by the Census Bureau, the number of hunters declined by 20 percent from 1980 to 1996. But the number of people who reported feeding wildlife declined by 21 percent over the same period.
While fewer people were watching and feeding wildlife, the amount they were spending on these activities has skyrocketed. A 1996 Census Bureau survey indicated that almost $1.3 billion was spent on wildlife watching in New York State, and only $762 million was spent on hunting. In the same year, more than $150 million was spent in the state on bird food and almost $38 million on bird houses and feeders.
''There is a heightened sense of environmental concern,'' said Ritchie Lettis, owner of the Wild Bird Center, the Stony Brook outlet of a Maryland-based chain. ''Birds are a big indicator of what's going on. Look at loons, for instance. They only like wild lakes, but if there is the slightest bit of pollution they won't go in.''
But Mr. Lettis, who bought his franchise just over a year ago, believes his customers have more selfish motives.
''It provides joy on any level,'' he said. ''The other day I had somebody who knew nothing about birds come in and describe one to me. When I was able to identify it, he got so excited. People who bird-watched used to be considered crazy or eccentric. No more.''
Shop owners who are part of these franchise chains receive the name brand, a business plan and varying degrees of support in exchange for start-up costs, ranging from $30,000 to $125,000, and monthly royalties of 3 to 6 percent. Indiana-based Wild Birds Unlimited recently tied for first place in Success magazine's first annual Franchisee Satisfaction Survey. ''The six-day training covered everything,'' Mr. Flesch said. ''They sent two people to help set up the store. They have suggestions for everything. It's worth the royalties,'' which are 4 percent of monthly revenues.
Although the stores may have national headquarters, in this business the most crucial element is local: the birds. Situated in the Eastern Seaboard migration corridor, with 280 miles of shoreline, the Island is, at times, home to about 350 different bird species. The Flesches keep up to date on environmental trends and local sightings. ''Somebody called the other day because she saw a hummingbird,'' Mr. Flesch said. ''She was so excited. In recent years, we've seen more of those around here.''
Always audible in the background of the Flesches' store is the trickle of water flowing through a $199 electric fountain. One wall is dedicated entirely to feeders: traditional cedar houses on one side, plastic tube feeders on the other. Many of these are designed by Wild Birds Unlimited with a patented shape -- ''one, so that you can always see the bird and secondly, so the shells can blow away,'' Mr. Flesch said.
Books and videos are clustered in one corner, binoculars are featured behind a glass counter, and everywhere things hang: stuffed animals, birds rendered in stained glass, nesting boxes. Once the birds have caught your attention, you will notice all the other creatures that flap and flutter into your backyard: also for sale are houses for bats, ladybugs and butterflies.
Twelve seed blends are displayed in salad bar-style. No Mess, a seedless blend, is ideal for use on a patio or for condos that have strict regulations, Mr. Flesch said. Wildlife Blend can just be chucked on the ground for any creatures that might happen by.
''The regular customers come on a weekly basis and they always want fresh seed,'' Mr. Flesch said. ''It becomes like picking up milk.''
Bird feeding and watching crosses all demographic and age lines, partly because it is simple and with birds migrating, it is always changing. ''The excitement spreads,'' Mr. Flesh said. ''A woman sent a pair of binoculars to her son in California for a Christmas gift. After visiting him she was so enthralled by them that she came back and bought two more pairs, one for herself, one for her husband. This way they can all talk birds.''
Wild Bird Marketplace in Sayville is currently expanding from 3,500 to 6,000 square feet. ''The birds have always been here, but people are finally learning to enjoy what's right in front of them,'' said Kathy Stephani, who opened the store with her sister and husband eight years ago. Originally the bulk of their customer base was older adults, but she says that now many children are getting interested. ''Some of the 8-, 9-, 10-year-olds come in and read all our books,'' she said. ''They are really knowledgeable.''
In April, Ms. Stephani's store was the top sales performer in her 30-store chain, based in upstate New York. She attributes her success in part to smart marketing moves, such as establishing close ties with two local chapters of the Audubon Society. She also cites the richness of the resource. ''Between the shoreline and the woods,'' she said, ''we have a very diverse bird population here.''
Caroline Sandvik, who drove a school bus before opening All Things Precious and Wild in Huntington seven years ago, rejected the idea of a franchise. ''Why would I give someone $60,000 for a toll-free number and their advice, not to mention 3 to 6 percent of my profits?'' she asked. Instead, she visited a myriad of stores and learned through a process of trial and error.
Ms. Sandvik says that today her 1,800-square-foot store is a 50-50 mix of giftware and bird feeding products. ''I'm continually switching merchandise around,'' she said. ''Ladybug houses are huge this year.''
Photos: Rudy Flesch, above, at Wild Birds Unlimited in Mount Sinai. Caroline Sandvik at All Things Precious and Wild in Huntington. (Photographs by Michael Shavel for The New York Times)


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I bet they get 10's. Just watch.
Printable View
I bet they get 10's. Just watch.
John is hilarious. I love him!!!
Bruno "fantastic...your performance tells a story"
Len "your technique was pretty good...your performance is great"
Carrie Ann "once again, I think you guys are the couple to beat"
Love John - Really - just love him.
His sense of humor is almost as good as that dance~they deserved 10s.
Are they doing a Paso Doble?? (West-coaster here) I loooooove the Paso!! My favorite ice dance. I love to stomp haughtily. :whip
John- Please tell me the red spedo isn't under that costume waiting to be revealed. Once again they came up with a wonderful performance. Her dress was beautiful.
I've mentioned since the first show that the choreography is out of their control and a huge part of the judge's critique.
I read: "has her ducts taped...? :roflQuote:
Originally Posted by Unklescott
How in the world did they manage to insert a crotch shot into the foxtrot?? I'd've previously said that was impossible.Quote:
Originally Posted by suncat7
Nice!! :clap
Kelly is one slinky-girl!
Len "a great performance"
Carrie Ann "I'm impressed"
Bruno "sultry, sexy, sulty...you've used your assets properly"


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Ratings calculated automatically using technology developed at QCRI and MIT.
Click here to learn more.
As per Indian customs rule, baggage allowance has been raised to INR 35,000.00 per person. As per rule, this will be considered individually, i.e whether you are traveling alone or not, it will not have any effect on the duty. So depending upon the officers, you may or may not be required to pay the duty if you are traveling with your family. The duty is calculated as (VALUE OF GOODS in INR(INDIAN MARKET)- 35,000)*36.05%. ie. if you are taking a 50,000 goods value item, you will have to pay (50000-35000)*36.05% = 5407 rs as duty. This is the legal calculation. Also some officers do consider the invoice, so try to bargain with your invoice, if duty is imposed.
Last december i paid 2750 Rs @calicut airport for Sony LED internet Tv even with my family , they consider it as used tv to reduce the tax but u want to bargain them to make it as used tv even they know it is new one .They have updated list of of tvs and electronics thy=ey will check ur box and find the model and put price.
I think excess of 25k we need to pay 35% as duty if you travel alone
I have taken a 40 inch LED tv to Cochin airport and I paid 4000 Indian Rupees as customs duty as I was traveling alone,you can take an electronic goods worth 25000 INR without any taxes ,if you are going with your family You don't have to pay any taxes as the LED Priice will cover your family members allowance of 25000 INR per person
check here


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My interests and talents lie strictly within the MMA realm. I have been a huge fan of MMA since the early days of UFC and the rule of the Gracies to the emergence and rise and fall of Pride. I enjoy watching tomorrow's stars on their path to the pro leagues to a good UFC matchup.
I can offer insight on all kinds of fighters from pro to amateur but am new to the writing game. I'm a musician so I write songs and figured writing opinions and articles on anything MMA related shouldn't be that much worse.
I am also a Manchester United fan and love to follow the English Premier League, the Spansih Premier League, and Series A so drop me a line if you want to talk any of these things and allow me to thank you ahead of time for even reading the words I write.
Nice picture mate! :)