text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|Aug 3, 2010
|Filing date
|Dec 24, 2003
|Priority date
|Dec 24, 2003
|Fee status
|Publication number
|Lisa Kay McLellan, Jennifer Susan Istok, Deborah Maria Robinson, Mary ("Cathy") Brown Etheridge, Richard Charles Glover, David Eugene Maas, Dana Darlene Liston
|Original Assignee
|Embarq Holdings Company, Llc
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (22), Non-Patent Citations (1), Classifications (12), Legal Events (5)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
Not applicable.
Not applicable.
This invention relates to the field of automatically generating and maintaining ATM addresses for use in a communications networking environment.
Asynchronous Transfer Mode, or "ATM," is a protocol used to communicate data in a packet-based network. Particular challenges surround employing ATM to communicate voice information in a packet-based network utilizing ATM technology. Each element involved must be associated with a unique ATM address. If multiple devices have the same ATM address, network failures occur. The negative effects that flow from network failures abound. Two exemplary consequences of network failures include data being routed to the wrong location or data not being routed at all.
Historically, generating and tracking ATM addresses has been a difficult task. ATM addresses were manually generated by hand. But manually conceiving ATM addresses increases the probability of address duplication because there is no robust way to ensure that a created address is unique. Moreover, the probability of errors in address creation is relatively high in a manual process. Typically, an ATM address is 160 bits long. Accurately configuring all 160 bits manually requires is burdensome and resource intensive. After ATM addresses are created, it is desirous to store them.
A popular prior technique for storing ATM addresses was to type them into a local spreadsheet. Merely attempting to store manually generated ATM address in a spreadsheet, however, offers no validation, is subject to data-entry errors, and does not practically allow multiple users to access current ATM addresses or input new ones.
As networks grow in complexity, so too does the need for a system and method that automatically generates and maintains ATM addresses. The prior art does not offer a method or system that automatically generates ATM addresses to be used in connection with a communications network. A need exists for a system that ensures unique addresses will be respectively assigned to one and only one network element. A further shortcoming of the prior art is that no scheme is available that provides a centralized access point that can be used to request, obtain, and view ATM addresses. The prior art could be still further improved by providing validation and security functionality to help ensure that proper ATM addresses are generated and assigned. Finally, the prior art offers no mechanism to notify desired persons or entities of ATM addresses incident to origination.
The present invention solves at least the above problems by providing a method and system for automatically generating and maintaining ATM addresses. The present invention has several practical applications in the technical arts including reducing the resources necessary to generate ATM addresses, providing a centralized data store to house the ATM addresses that is widely accessible by multiple simultaneous users, preventing an ATM addresses from being associated with more than one network element, automatically notifying one or more recipients of the ATM address, and validating that an ATM address is properly generated.
In a first aspect, the presenting invention includes one or more computer-readable media having computer-useable instructions embodied thereon for performing a method for generating an ATM address. The method includes receiving a first set of data parameters, issuing a query based on the data parameters that enables a unique communications-element identifier to be generated, generating the unique communications-element identifier without user intervention; and automatically grouping the generated communications-element identifier with a second set of data parameters to create the ATM address.
In a second aspect, the present invention includes a method for automatically generating an ATM address incident to a request from a requestor. The method includes receiving the request, which includes an element identifier corresponding to a network element to be ultimately associated with the ATM address, validating the request, providing a unique identifier that corresponds to the network element, grouping the unique identifier with a set of parameters to create the ATM address without user intervention; and storing the ATM address in a repository. Reports can be generated based on the stored ATM addresses. One or more individuals or entities can be automatically provided with the ATM address incident to their creation, by email for example.
In final illustrative aspect, a system that automatically generates an ATM addresses is provided. The system includes a Graphical User Interface (GUI) for receiving one or more parameters to be used to generate the ATM address and also includes a set of computer-useable instructions embodied on one or more computer-readable media, wherein the computer useable instructions are accessible by the GUI and perform a method for generating the ATM address without user intervention based in part on the one or more parameters.
The present invention is described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, which are incorporated by reference herein and wherein:
The present invention provides a method and system for automatically generating and maintaining ATM addresses. ATM networks are composed of network elements that must have unique ATM addresses. The present invention provides this functionality and much more, such as notification features and report generation. The present invention will be better understood from the detailed description provided below and from the accompanying drawings of various embodiments of the invention. The detailed description and drawings, however, should not be read to limit the invention to the specific embodiments. Rather, these specifics are provided for explanatory purposes that help the invention to be better understood.
Specific hardware devices, programming languages, components, processes, and numerous details including operating environments and the like are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. In other instances, structures, devices, and processes are shown in block-diagram form, rather than in detail, to avoid obscuring the present invention. But an ordinary-skilled artisan would understand that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. Computer systems, servers, work stations, and other machines may be connected to one another across a communication medium including, for example, a network or networks.
Throughout the description of the present invention, several acronyms and shorthand notations are used to aid the understanding of certain concepts pertaining to the associated system and services. These acronyms and shorthand notations are solely intended for the purpose of providing an easy methodology of communicating the ideas expressed herein and are in no way meant to limit the scope of the present invention. The following is a list of these acronyms:
Armenian Engineers and Scientists of America
Address Format Indicator
American National Standards Institute
Asynchronous Transfer Mode
Common Language Location Identification
Data Country Code
Domain Format Identifier
End System Identifier
Graphical User Interface
Hypertext Markup Language
International Code Designator
Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers
International Organization for Standardization
Local Area Network
Medium Access Control
Metropolitan Area Network
Organization Identifier
Wide Area Network
Further, various technical terms are used throughout this description. A definition of such terms can be found in Newton's Telecom Dictionary by H. Newton, 19th Edition (2003). These definitions are intended to provide a clearer understanding of the ideas disclosed herein but are in no way intended to limit the scope of the present invention. The definitions and terms should be interpreted broadly and liberally to the extent allowed by the meaning of the words offered in the above-cited reference.
As one skilled in the art will appreciate, the present invention may be embodied as, among other things: a method, system, or computer-program product. Accordingly, the present invention may take the form of a hardware embodiment, a software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention takes the form of a computer-program product that includes computer-useable instructions embodied on one or more computer-readable media.
Computer-readable media include both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and nonremovable media, and contemplates media readable by a database, a switch, and various other network devices. Network switches, routers, and related components are conventional in nature, as are means of communicating with the same. By way of example, and not limitation, computer-readable media comprise computer-storage media and communications media.
Computer-storage media, or machine-readable media, include media implemented in any method or technology for storing information. Examples of stored information include computer-useable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data representations. Computer-storage media include, but are not limited to RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile discs (DVD), holographic media or other optical disc storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage, and other magnetic storage devices. These memory components can store data momentarily, temporarily, or permanently.
Communications media typically store computer-useable instructions—including data structures and program modules—in a modulated data signal. The term "modulated data signal" refers to a propagated signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed to encode information in the signal. An exemplary modulated data signal includes a carrier wave or other transport mechanism. Communications media include any information-delivery media. By way of example but not limitation, communications media include wired media, such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, infrared, radio, microwave, spread-spectrum, and other wireless media technologies. Combinations of the above are included within the scope of computer-readable media.
Note, the description that follows includes several numerical references to bit or character positions. These numerical references should not be confused with reference numerals that relate the specification to the drawings. All reference numeral are three digits. Most bit- or character-position identifiers are one or two digits, but there are some three-digit references herein. Read in context, the various numerical references should be clear.
To help explain the invention without obscuring its functionality, a preferred embodiment will now be referenced in connection with a communications network.
In a preferred embodiment, GUI 110 is a HTML-based interface. Providing an HTML-based interface allows the present invention to be used in connection with the Internet and makes it accessible from virtually anywhere in the world and by wireless devices. Thus, where an Internet connection is available, the present invention is available. Database 118 houses a litany of data items related to a communications network in a preferred embodiment. Exemplary data housed by database 118 includes an inventory of network elements, such as network elements 126 a-126 n, network-element identifiers, and other information related to a communications network. In a preferred embodiment, database 118 is also used to store the ATM addresses that will be generated automatically, a process that will be described in greater detail below.
An object of the present invention is to automatically generate and maintain ATM addresses.
ATM address 210 includes 160 bits, which translates to 40 hexadecimal characters. An actual ATM address is provided in
AFI field 212 spans character positions 1 and 2. AFI field 212 is an Address Format Indicator field. In a preferred embodiment, the value of this field determines the type of the AESA (e.g., DCC, ICD, E.164, local, etc.) AFI field 212 also indicates which authority can assign codes (the structure and values of fields) for the rest of the AESA. In this embodiment, AFI field 212 for a DCC formatted AESA is "39."
DCC field 214 spans character positions 3 through 6. DCC field 214 describes a Data Country Code. This value can be assigned by ISO to indicate the country authority. Each country may decide the structures and assigning rules for the fields following the DCC field. The data country code for the United States is "840F." The address registration body in the United States is the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
DFI field 216 spans character positions 7 and 8. DFI field 216 is a Domain Format Identifier. DFI field 216 allows subsequent fields to be formatted differently depending on its value. Currently, ANSI has only one defined value of "80," but this may change in the future.
ORG ID field 218 spans character positions 9 through 13. ORG ID field 218 is an organization identifier. This value can be assigned by ANSI to indicate that the rest of the addressing space belongs to and is administered by a respective registered organization. Thus, a first company may have a first ORG ID, a second company will have a different ORG ID, etc. This allows flexibility in using the remaining character positions 14 through 40, which is why those shown are illustrative in nature.
Organization-defined field 220 spans character positions 14 through 26 in a preferred embodiment. Organization-defined field 220 is a field whereby the registered organization may use to construct an ATM address scheme specific to their ATM network. Accordingly, various organizations may choose to utilize the organization-defined field in various ways. As will be explained in greater detail below, organization-defined field 220 is used to generate a unique ATM address.
ESI field 222 spans character positions 27 through 38 in a preferred embodiment. ESI field 222 is an End System Identifier. ESI field 222 provides an interface analogous to a Medium Access Control (MAC) address of an Ethernet/IEEE802.3 interface. The value of ESI field 222 may be populated by each end system with codes derived from IEEE assignments, such as MAC addresses, that uniquely identify each interface.
SEL field 224 spans character positions 39 through 40. SEL field 224 is a selector field and is used to differentiate multiple addresses associated with the same interface.
Organization-defined field 220, is not limited to that shown in
As shown, organization-defined field 220 includes a world and country zone 228 that spans bits 53 through 54; a region code 230 that spans bits 55 through 58; a local service area (LSA) field 232 that spans bits 59 through 64; an organization-format field 234 that spans bits 65 through 68; a peer-group-ID field 236 that spans bits 69 through 74; a sub-peer group field 238 that spans bits 75 through 79; a public/private-identifier field 240 that spans bits 80 through 81; an element-ID field 242 that spans bits 82 through 92; and a reserved field 244 that spans bits 93 through 104. Again, different organizations may include different fields in connection with detailed array 226 without departing from the scope of the present invention.
In a preferred embodiment, bit 53 corresponds to a world-zone identifier. Bit 54 corresponds to a country-code identifier. Thus, a code of "0" may correspond to North America while a code of "1" may correspond to another zone. For the country-code identifier, a code of "0" may correspond to the country of the United States, or a "1" may correspond to another country.
Region field 230 allows a more specific identification of a local region. In a preferred embodiment, region field 230 can be used to more precisely describe a domestic region. Thus, a region code of "001" may correspond to a Northeastern region; a code of "1100" may correspond to a Midwest region; or a code of "1110" may correspond to a Western region. The level of specificity or precision required to designate various regions is variable. That is, if more than 15 regions need to be designated, then an additional bit can be used to designate the regions.
LSA field 232 provides bits to describe a Local Service Area in a preferred embodiment. Local-service-area field 232 can be used to more precisely define a portion of a region. Thus, each region may be broken into local-service areas based upon the location of various equipment devices. Organization-format field 234 identifies a specific division within a company. As will be described in greater detail below, organization-format field 234 can be used to safeguard and validate ATM-address assignments. For instance, it may be desirous to limit those who may request an ATM address to those individuals that are associated with a specific organizational unit of a company or geographic region. That is, the "long distance division" cannot request an ATM address for an element that is associated with only the "wireless division." Similarly, a user in the Western Region is restricted to requesting ATM addresses for elements only in the Western region. The present invention provides both of these functional aspects.
Peer group ID field 236 allows up to 64 peer groups to be defined per region. Sub-peer group field 238 allows additional unique ATM addresses to be generated by providing an additional number of bits that can be manipulated per peer group.
ATM addresses used within a specific carrier's network are often public addresses. But if that carrier's customers desire their own private addresses in their network, then public/private field 240 can be used to so designate the ATM address 210 as being associated with a private device.
Element-identifier field 242 is used to uniquely identify elements of a communications network. Exemplary network elements include switches, routers, point of presence devices, signal-transfer points, repeaters, hubs, and the like. Each element can be given a unique element ID by using element-identifier field 242. Element-identifier field 242 is a generated field that is used to uniquely identify a network element within an ATM addressing scheme, such as the scheme illustrated in
An exemplary computer implemented method for practicing the present invention is provided in
At a step 310A, an address-request form is presented to a user. A screen shot of an exemplary address-request form is depicted in
At a step 312, address-request information is received at form 400. At a step 314, the address request is submitted by pressing a submit button 416 on screen 400. At a step 316, the address-request information can be validated. The validation may assume a variety of forms and a variety of levels. At a first level, cursory validation can take place even prior to submitting the address request. Irrespective of a precise order, the present invention offers a greater level of validation than a mere cursory validation. A description of an exemplary validation scheme follows.
In a preferred embodiment, the inputted call server CLLI code 404 is validated to determine whether such a CLLI code exists. If the call server CLLI code entered does not exist, then a respective error message will be conveyed to the user. Also, the host ATM switch CLLI code 406 is also validated. Although the descriptive name "host ATM switch CLLI code" is provided, textbox 406 can be used to receive a CLLI code of any target element. The target element is the element to which an ATM address is to be associated. Thus, if a user wishes to assign an ATM address to a specific network element, then that network element's CLLI code can be entered in box 406.
The CLLI code(s) are validated to ensure that the string entered is the correct length and the correct format. In a preferred embodiment, validation is also performed to ensure that the region selected is valid for the element CLLI entered in textbox 408. Before a user can request an ATM address, he or she logs into the system in a preferred embodiment. Based on the login profile, application 116 can determine whether the user making the request is authorized to make the desired request. Further based on the user's login information, application 116 can determine the region to which the user is associated. If that user attempts to request an ATM address for a network element that is outside of that user's region, then the application 116 can display an appropriate message that such an assignment is not allowed. This validation prevents individuals from say the Western region from inadvertently requesting ATM addresses associated with network elements that lie in the Eastern region for example. This validation is not necessary but helps ensure the integrity of the network by providing an extra safeguard against erroneously assigning ATM addresses.
Thus, in one embodiment, a requester can request ATM addresses only for those elements that lie within the region associated with the requester. Additional validation may also be performed in step 316. With further reference to a log-in profile, application 116 can determine whether the requestor is associated with the proper business unit to submit the request. This validation prevents someone in the "long distance" division from requesting ATM addresses that correspond to elements uniquely associated with the "wireless" division. Other types of validation include validating that the element name is consistent with a prescribed format and/or the element number is within a prescribed range. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate additional validations that can take place. What is important, is that in some embodiments, a validation scheme is provided. If the information fails validation, then processing reverts to step 312. But if the information provided passes validation, then processing continues to a step 318.
At step 318, the address-request information is optionally redisplayed to the user for final verification. A screen shot of an exemplary verification is provided with reference to
At a step 334, the ATM address and associated element information is optionally presented to the user. A screen shot that depicts an exemplary feedback screen is shown in
At a step 322D, application 116 generates a unique element identifier. A unique element identifier can be generated in a variety of ways. A first exemplary method for generating a unique element identifier is to limit element identifiers to sequential numbers, determine the most recently assigned element identifier, and increment that string by one. This embodiment, however, would limit the number of unique assignments to the number of actual assignments. Thus, in another embodiment, an available element identifier can be identified by a gap in sequential element IDs. That is, if a query returns that element IDs "5, 6, 7, 9, 10" are assigned, then a determination can be made that element identifier "8" is available for assignment. Accordingly, in some embodiments, where an ATM address is deleted, the corresponding element identifier is available for reassignment.
At a step 322E, the generated unique element identifier is combined with the address-request information to create organization-defined field 220, which is also combined with the other fields listed in
The present invention automatically generates and stores the ATM address in database 118. This prevents duplicate ATM addresses from being assigned and does away with the painstaking task of formulating a new ATM address that conforms to a prescribed format. A user need only enter a one or more data elements to have the present invention automatically create and store an ATM address to be assigned to a network element. If the data provided by the user does not allow an ATM address to be generated, the present invention can automatically recommend changing one of the manipulatable fields to derive a unique ATM address. For example, screen shot 400 indicates that sub-peer group 1 was selected in drop down box 414. If the user submitted address-request information that would not permit an ATM address to be generated under that sub-peer group, then the present invention could generate an ATM address based on a different sub-peer group, notify the user of such change and either wait for confirmation or automatically generate the new address based on, say a different peer group ID.
As can be seen, the present invention and its equivalents are well adapted to providing a method and system for automatically generating and maintaining ATM addresses to be assigned to elements of a communications network. The present invention ensures that an ATM address is uniquely assigned. That is, no two elements of a network will have the same ATM address. The ATM addresses are automatically stored in a database, whereby fruitful reports can be run to gather desired data. Thus, the ATM addresses are automatically maintained, whereby they can be deleted or viewed. The present invention offers a centralized source where ATM address assignments can be stored and referenced. Validation along with security and privilege information is integrated to further reduce the likelihood of erroneous ATM-address generation and ATM-address assignment. The present invention also allows notifications to be automatically provided to one or more recipients in a variety of ways, such as e-mail. Many different arrangements of the various components depicted, as well as components not shown, are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the litany of additional network components that can be used in connection with the present invention.
The present invention has been described in relation to particular embodiments, which are intended in all respects to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Alternative embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art that do not depart from its scope. Many alternative embodiments exist but are not included because of the nature of this invention. A skilled programmer may develop alternative means of implementing the aforementioned improvements without departing from the scope of the present invention.
It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations and are contemplated within the scope of the claims. Not all steps listed in the various figures need be carried out in the specific order described. Not all steps of the aforementioned flow diagrams are necessary steps.
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|U.S. Classification
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Owner name: SPRINT COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY L.P., KANSAS
|Nov 21, 2006
Owner name: EMBARQ HOLDINGS COMPANY, LLC, KANSAS
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:SPRINT COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY L.P.;REEL/FRAME:018535/0767
Effective date: 20060517
|Mar 14, 2014
|Maintenance fee reminder mailed
|Aug 3, 2014
|Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees
|Sep 23, 2014
|Expired due to failure to pay maintenance fee
Effective date: 20140803


text:
Boot scootin' fund raising
Sun, 11 Mar 2012 05:06:09 GMT —
Camoflage print garments and denim overalls dominated the dance floor at Camp Callahan's 2nd annual fund raising dance Saturday night.
The "Hillbilly USA" themed event included music, a hot wings contest, and a best dressed redneck competition.
Those in attendance also had a chance to win raffles prizes, including an overnight stay at Town and County Inn and Suites.
Dancers scooted around the dance floor at Turner Hall to raise money for the nonprofit camp for special needs children.
Camp Callahan is still accepting donations at P.O. Box 5253, Quincy, IL, 62305.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
The acclaimed college financial aid website www.finaid.org has issued a not-so-subtle reminder of just how much America owes in student loans.
That's right. You're looking at a running tally of the country's astronomical collective student debt, including both private and federal student loans.
At the time I'm writing this, the number is hovering just above $848 billion. (The website notes, however, this is actually a rough estimate … mostly for entertainment purposes).
That's just shy of Australia's GDP in 2009, according to numbers from the CIA World Factbook.
Total student debt surpassed credit card debt in June for the first time in history, according to the debt clock's creators. And it's still climbing by roughly $2,500 each second.
Just look at it go.
And to put it into local context: As of Friday, Texas Tech issued some $45 million in federal student loans to 9,500 students enrolled this fall. That averages out to about $4,700 per recipient, according to my cowboy math.
Comparing loan disbursements to debt accumulation, of course, fails to pass the apples-to-apples test, but it does show that Red Raiders are not immune from the costs of higher education.
And, to think, they're getting off relatively cheap with the second-lowest tuition in the Big 12 Conference.


text:
Hundreds of people from churches across the country attended a seminar in Fort Worth on how to help those affected by crimes committed in churches.
The Sheepdog Seminar was held at Wedgwood Baptist Church, the site of a Sept. 15, 1999, shooting that killed seven and injured seven others. More than 350 people attended.
Wedgwood pastor Al Meredith said record 75 people were killed in houses of worship in the United States last year.
"Tragedies strike our churches in so many different ways," he said. "It's not always the shooter coming in and shooting at people. There are predators out there that take advantage of us because we're trying to get people in our doors and predators go the path of least resistance."
One of the first mass assaults on a church happened at First Baptist Church Dangerfield in east Texas in June 1980. Cheryl Hendrick was inside the sanctuary with two of her three children.
"The church had been going on with the services for about 30 minutes," she said. "All at once, the back door swung open, this man screamed, 'This is war,' and he started shooting."
Hendrick said her daughter, Gina, was shot in the head and died instantly.
"Even though it's been nearly 33 years, you never forget," she said. "When you hear it happening to other people, I still cry for them because I know what they're headed for."
Since the 1999 Wedgwood shooting, the church has added security cameras to every corner of the church, Meredith said.
The church also has a ministry assistant team with key people who are prepared in case of a violent breakout, he said. They are not identifiable to the general public or the congregation.
The seminar is scheduled to conclude Tuesday.


text:
When it comes to saving a life, every second counts.
That's why residents in the northeast Encinitas community of Olivenhain were outraged Wednesday night at a city council meeting.
They believe it's taking too long for fire crews and paramedics to respond to emergencies.
In the city of Encinitas, the fire department's goal is to respond to 80 percent of calls within five minutes.
But if you live in Olivenhain, the fire chief said it can take up to 14 minutes for a fire truck to arrive.
Encinitas Fire Chief Mark Muir said, "You get brain damage in 4 minutes, critical in 6 minutes, so it's real important that we get there fast."
Residents want their own station.
Chief Muir said the city already has five of them and they are placed based on call volume.
For every call made in Olivenhain, the city gets hundreds in other parts of town.
City officials are considering relocating one of the existing stations, but that could cause delays in busier areas.
Still, residents say it's unacceptable and are asking the city council for help.
Tom Swanson, an Olivenhain resident said, "Public safety is supposed to be the number one priority of the city, except for Olivenhain where it has no priority."
A father of five children, Matt Battiata said it took the fire department 15 minutes when his 2 year-old was having a seizure.
"We pay taxes," Battiata said, "and I don't think it makes any sense because we live in a semi-rural area that we would have less of service."


text:
Allawi slams Iran as Maliki holds talks in Tehran
Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki on Monday held talks in Iran to get backing for his premiership bid. According to AFP, the Iraqi leader flew to Tehran from Amman and went straight into a series of meetings, including with Iran's first vice president Mohammad Reza Rahimi and with supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to local media.
Maliki had been in Jordan on Sunday.
In their meeting, Rahimi has stressed the importance of bolstering cooperation. "Regional countries will turn into a big power through strengthening their cooperation which will bring security and welfare to nations," IRNA quoted Rahimi as saying. He voiced his country's readiness to participate in the reconstruction of Iraq, saying, "Iran will spare no effort to help Iraq reconstruct and develop."
"Iran regards progress and security of Iraq as its own progress and security. The two countries can make use of their capacities to expand relations in all fields," he added.
Rahimi also expressed hope the formation of a new Iraqi government and the establishment of security in that country would prepare the ground for the promotion of joint cooperation in different areas.
Maliki, for his part, described as "strategic and strong" relations between Tehran and Baghdad.
Meanwhile, Maliki's rival, ex-premier Eyad Allawi, accused Iran of meddling in the Iraqi coalition talks. "We know that unfortunately Iran is trying to wreak havoc on the region, and trying to destabilise the region by destabilising Iraq, and destabilising Lebanon and destabilising the Palestinian issue," Allawi told CNN on Sunday.
"And this is where unfortunately Iraq and the rest of the greater Mideast is falling victim to these terrorists who are definitely Iran-financed and supported by various governments in the region."


text:
Feenster, that's all fine. And I pretty much agree with all of it.
The point I was making was in reference to :
But in terms of personality and a story that plays with the emotions Andy Murray's year wins.
Andy Murray can do whatever he likes, he's a brilliant sportsman, and that's what matters.
But the quote above is what I couldnt make any sense of.


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The nightmare is back…
Cole Mouzon exists to the outside world as a successful lawyer, loyal son and brother – all unaware of his private turmoil. But, during a visit back home to Charleston, Cole is surprised by a call from the FBI that threatens to bring down the wall and force him to deal with the sharp emotions behind it as he learns that there is more to his childhood nightmares than just dreams. The clue to his past and his ultimate survival rests in a stranger, Cash Calhoun, a man he has never met but has been tied to his entire life. Together, they embark on a hunt to find the truth held in the dark shadows of Cole's mind and the marshy landscape of the Holy City before a hunter from Cole's past destroys their newly discovered bond — and their lives.
Steeped in southern drawl and suspense, THE TREES BEYOND THE GRASS, the first in the Cole Mouzon series, is a riveting story about the amazing, but sometimes destructive, power of our minds to protect us from the evils of life, while undermining our ability to discover true happiness.
Look for book two of the Cole Mouzon series, WHEN ASPENS QUAKE, sited in Denver and Atlanta. Coming Spring 2014.
What people are saying:
Highly emotive and gritty… His descriptions of Charleston are evocative and lyrical… A marvelous debut novel. Lisa B. – Goodreads
There is nothing typical about this thriller… The City of Charleston is as much as a protagonist as the book's main character, Cole Mouzon. – Elisa Reviews
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text:
John Lichfield and Nigel Morris
The Independent
February 17, 2012
Plans to build a new generation of "fighter drones" that can wage war by remote control are set to be agreed today by Britain and France. David Cameron and President Nicolas Sarkozy are preparing to put their recent tensions behind them to launch proposals for the pilotless stealth aircraft at a summit in Paris. In a second agreement, they will promise closer co-operation on civil nuclear power.
Western nations increasingly regard the deployment of drones to launch surgical strikes on targets as a way of keeping military casualties to a minimum.
Several senior al-Qa'ida figures have been killed by unmanned American drones flying over Pakistan, while British drone missions could begin within months over Afghanistan. Critics claim the aircraft can cause "collateral damage" among civilians and that the low risk to service personnel from their use can encourage countries to turn to military force rather than diplomacy.
… Under the agreement, British and French public and private sector bodies in the civil nuclear power industry will work more closely on education and training, research and development and security. The two sets of ministers will also discuss cooperation in transport. Mr Cameron last night stressed the "strength and depth of Britain's ties with France". He said: "Our commercial relationship is deep and growing with exports increasing and French investment sustaining almost 10,000 jobs in the UK. Our militaries are working together on cutting-edge military technology. This relationship is vital for the national security and the prosperity of both Britain and France."


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BU Grads Take Part In First-Ever Alumni 'Steppin' Out'
by Judy Long
Medical supplies for third world countries are closer to their destination after 50 Baylor University Dallas Alumni volunteered a Saturday morning for the first-ever Dallas Steppin' Out event on Feb. 7. After the activity, the group shared lunch at a nearby restaurant to unwind and visit.
Volunteers met at the MediSend International warehouse in Dallas where they sorted, boxed, labeled and inventoried hundreds of pounds of surplus medical supplies for the Dallas non-profit organization. Items inventoried included scrubs, new supplies and technical equipment sorted by need, such as orthopedics, neonatal and others.
Carol Kent, The Baylor Network coordinator for Dallas, said the experience was an education. "The supplies included tiny pieces of medical equipment valued at thousands of dollars. We had to figure out what some of it was."
Brian Teusink, class of '93, wanted an opportunity to offer more tangible service than just writing a check. "When you give money, you're not sure where it goes. But helping Medisend gave a sense of immediate help to recipients all over the world," he said.
Teusink said he enjoys participating in community service projects outside his church. "Volunteering through my church is always great, but I have felt a need to give to my community through another channel."
Randy Stevens, class of '80, appreciated the chance to make a difference for people in need in a developing country while talking with other alums. "I like to do things where we can socialize while we work on a service activity. I met a lot of people from different years, and we enjoyed talking about Baylor. Steppin' Out wasn't around when I was at Baylor, but now I'm planning to go to the Steppin' Out event on campus in April with some of the others," he said.
MediSend, founded in 1990 by neurosurgeon Dr. Martin Lazar, collects surplus supplies from hospitals, clinics, agencies and individuals in the United States, then sorts, inventories and ships them to pre-qualified charitable institutions overseas that offer medical services to indigent people. Since 1990, MediSend has sent more than 400 shipments of usable medical supplies and equipment, valued at nearly $14 million, to 71 countries.
The next Dallas Steppin' Out event will be held on May 15 to benefit Buckner "Shoes for Orphan Soles." A summer project on Aug. 7 will benefit the North Texas Food Bank.
Steppin' Out, a community service activity sponsored by the university, was originally designed to provide students opportunities to develop a sense of social responsibility. The next event for undergraduate and other volunteers will take place in Waco on Saturday, April 3.
For more information about Dallas Steppin' Out, contact Kristin Rider at email@example.com or Carol Kent, at firstname.lastname@example.com.
For more information about alumni Steppin' Out and other programs in Fort Worth and Houston, contact Brent Edwards, The Baylor Network coordinator for Fort Worth and northwest Texas, at email@example.com or Brenda Morris, director of The Baylor Network, at email@example.com.
More News ...


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Temperatures ran 15 degrees or more above level on Monday as a high pressure system sent warm, dry air to the coast. The air is heating up as it squeezes through passes and canyons. The temperature hit 84 at Lindbergh Field, making this the hottest day, so far, this year, in San Diego. Forecasters say Tuesday could be even hotter, with the airport hitting 92.
The high pressure "and weak offshore flow will produce temperatures close to record levels during the days through Wednesday," the weather service says. "A cooling trend will get underway and some low clouds and fog will return to the coast Wednesday through the weekend."
And here's a sample of today's fastest wind gusts: Campo, 52 mph; Potrero, 50 mph; Cameron, Wynola, 49 mph; 48 mph; Pine Hills, 47 mph; Lake Henshaw, 45 mph; Lake Wohlford, 37 mph; Sunset Oaks, 35 mph; Pala, 32 mph; Camp Pendleton, 29 mph; Carlsbad, 28 mph; Torrey Pines, 28 mph.
Local ocean temperatures are in the 60-64 degree range. The surf is in the 1' to 3' range.
Follow me on Twitter at grobbins
San Diego's air pollution among worst in the country, says the American Lung Association
Beach trash sweep nets 150,000 pounds
Visit the Union-Tribune Science and Environment topic page for stories, photo galleries, live streaming of the Birch Aquarium kelp cam, and UCSD-TV, and podcastsCopyright © 2017, The San Diego Union-Tribune


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204 City Road Tel: 0161 872 8129
63 Booth Street West Tel: 0161 227 9785
Out of Hours Please call 111 if you need help between 6.30pm and 8.00am. Your call will be answered by NHS111 who will be able to direct you to a local service which best meets your needs. Please call on the practice telephone number after 8.00am. Between 8.00 and 8.45am, your call will be answered by our out of hours provider. After 8.45am your call will come through to us.
Telephone Advice
If you want to speak to the doctor on the telephone or just want some advice that doesn't require you coming in to the surgery, please ask for a telephone consultation. If you telephone before 10.00am your call will be returned the same morning.
Cancelling your Appointment
If you are unable to attend an appointment with one of the doctors or nurses, please telephone to let us know on 0161 227 9785 (Boundary) or 0161 872 8129 (City Road).
We're very sorry to inform patients that Dr Nortcliff is now leaving us for pastures new. Dr Nortcliff joined us as a Registrar in 2012 before becoming a Partner in 2013. He's made a big difference to both the practice and patients, and we're really sorry to see him go. His last day with us will be 21st July. We wish him every success for the future.
Working together to provide warm, personalised care.
We welcome and treat all patients equally irrespective of age, race, religion, disability, gender, HIV status or sexual orientation.
If you're looking for up to date news and information about our practice, this is the place to come. You can also use this website for links to other health-related information.
As a practice, our aim is to work together as a team to provide warm, personalised care for all of our patients. We're now also required to run a Friends and Family Test for our patients and provide monthly (anonymous) reports on the results of this.
Please help us by giving us your feedback. Are you happy with your experiences at the practice? Is there anything you think we're doing really well? Is there anything we need to do better? How likely are you to recommend our practice to your friends and family if they needed similar care or treatment?
You can provide us with your feedback by:
Filling out a short form that you can pick up from reception and popping it in the suggestions box in the waiting room.
Completing the Friends and Family Test which is included as an on-line survey at the bottom of this page.
Click the link below for details of the feedback we received from patients as part of the Friends and Family Test during July.
Friends and Family Test July 2017
We've reviewed all of the feedback we've received from patients over the last 12 months and discussed this with members of our Patient Participation Group. You can read our report on patient feedback and what we're planning to do over the next 12 months here:
Annual patient feedback report 2016
Please note that we have a practice meeting once a month. These meetings are held on a Tuesday afternoon between 12.30 and 3.30pm. Our Booth Street West and City Road sites are therefore closed during these hours but please do telephone the practice if you need to see a doctor urgently. Your call will be answered by the out of hours service.
If you need help or advice between 6.30pm and 8.00am, please call 111. NHS111 handles all urgent but not life threatening health problems and queries between these hours. It's a Freephone number so you won't be charged for your call! NHS111 will then be able to direct you to a local service (e.g. out of hours doctor, pharmacy, walk in centre) that best meets your needs.
Do you know what illnesses and injuries you can safely care for at home, when you need to see a GP and what 'red flags' will tell you that it's time to call 999 and head for A&E? Check out this site and find out: www.manchester.nhs.uk/choosewell
We're now working with the Citizens Advice Bureau on a pilot project to help more people get the help and support they need with problems such as these - they might not seem related to your health but they'll often be affecting your health! The Citizens Advice Bureau is now holding monthly 'pop up sessions' at both of our practice sites to give people more information on how they can help. We've also got a dedicated telephone hot-line to a Citizens Advice Bureau advisor who can make an appointment for you to see someone about the problems you're having. If you'd like more information about this, please speak to our reception team.
We're now able to send prescriptions electronically to a pharmacy of your choice. This will make things easier for you - for example, if you've requested a repeat prescription, you won't need to come in to the practice to collect it and then go to the pharmacy to get it dispensed - the prescription will go straight to the pharmacy when it's been signed by the doctor. Please speak to your usual pharmacy if you're interested in this service.
With a change in registration rules, we're now able to accept patients from anywhere! Please check out the section on 'new patients' for more information........
A Summary Care Record is an electronic medical record which can only ever be accessed by healthcare staff at the time they are treating you. It contains information about your medication and any allergies or bad reactions you've had to medicines, so it can be really helpful if ever you need emergency treatment. GP Practices in Greater Manchester are now uploading Summary Care Records for their patients on to a secure NHS system. If you want to opt out of this, please speak to our reception staff.
You can now request repeat prescriptions, view your medical records and book appointments on-line! Please ask our reception staff for more information and details of how you can sign up for this service.....
Even if you're not registered with us as a patient, you can still come to us if you're travelling abroad and need vaccinations! Make an appointment at our Travel Clinic . For further information on this service, click on the link.
We're now required to publish details of our doctors' average pay.
The average pay for GPs working in Cornbrook Medical Practice in the last financial year was £55,136 before tax and National Insurance. This is for 0 full time GPs, 7 part time GPs and 0 locum GP who worked in the practice for more than six months (updated 10/03/17).
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The iconic and moving story of three Warsaw friends, whose ambitious plans for the future are interrupted by the dramatic and life-changing advent of the Second World War.
The boys are confronted with an impossible choice: they can keep the peace, stay safe and except the Nazi invasion of their precious homeland, or they can risk everything by heroically engaging in the struggle for the honour and liberty of their nation. What followed is a story that has remained legendary for more than 70 years…
Based on the cult novel by Aleksander Kaminski.
Certificate: 15 Drama | War | World
Dir. Robert Glinski, Poland, 2014, 111 mins, subtitles
Cast: Tomasz Zietek, Marcel Sabat, Kamil Szeptycki,Magdalena Kolesnik, Sandra Staniszewska, Wojciech Zielinski


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Report: Iverson Demands Trade
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5 Tool Poster
The next Danny Woodhead!! WHOO!!
Join Date: Aug 2003
Posts: 5,811
Originally Posted by
King is under pressure. Word is that Philly wants there hands washed of this. They are adamant about trading AI by tonight. Any semblance of patience goes out the window if they are seriously geared on getting this done. So they might take a lesser package. If they take Joe Smith, Najera, Nene and picks they are just crazy. As picks are so hit or miss and they are getting a huge cumbersome contract in Nene, Joe Smith woohoo, and Eddie Najera. Eddie will be a Philly favorite because of his workman like play but still that is a blow it all up trade for Philly.
All you nuggets fans dont' get me wrong right now. I'm just hating because I want Iverson on the Celtics. That's it. I'm a hater. If you land Iverson for Nene, I might jump off a roof because I know we have the better offer but since we play in the same division as Philly, they really don't want to deal with us.
AARRGGH. I have wasted my whole day waiting for this trade.
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text:
WiiSpeak microphone box and discovered the secret behind the associated Wii Speak Channel: it's a free download, yes, but that download requires the entry of a one-time-use code included in the box. At first blush, this isn't a big deal, because anyone who wants to use the Wii Speak Channel is probably going to have a microphone anyway, right?
The problem, as Totilo identifies, is that you can't buy the thing used and expect the channel, because the "Download Ticket" will have been used. And Nintendo won't replace it. The channel won't be available for purchase, or for free download without the ticket. So buy the thing new or plan to chat only in games.


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Waveriders begin title quest against hefty Governors
By JOE FERRARO
Stephens Media
It's a battle of heavyweights – literally.
Kealakehe will host Farrington at 7 p.m. today in a Hawaii High School Athletic Association Division I first-round state playoff game that pits two of the state's largest offensive lines.
Behind a line that averages 308 pounds per man, the Waveriders (10-1) kept the ball almost exclusively on the ground during the second half of the regular season and in the playoffs, grinding their way to their seventh Big Island Interscholastic Federation title in nine years.
Now the Waveriders want to accomplish something they've never done during that nine-year span: win a state playoff game.
"This is the best team we've had here, and this is the team that we'll take the next step with,'' Papalii said. " We're inching closer. We can taste it."
Kealakehe must knock off the Governors (9-2), who are accustomed to trotting out 300-pounders on its offensive line, and Randall Okimoto calls the senior group of Michael Boyd, Mitchell Boyd, A.J. White, Colin Kaalele and Charles Sataraka "definitely the heaviest line across the board'' during his 11-year stint as Farrington's coach.
The line averages 320 pounds per man, but Okimoto places more emphasis on his linemen's commitment in the classroom and the fact that they have played as a unit since they were sophomores.
The 6-foot-1, 333-pound Sataraka takes advanced placement courses and has received a scholarship offer from Colorado while Saint Francis University has offered scholarships to brothers Mitchell (6-1, 303) and Michael Boyd (6-1, 291).
"The experience playing with each other – that's their strength,'' Okimoto said.
The line has paved the way for two 1,000-yard rushers in seniors Abraham Silva and Tyler Taumua.
Okimoto said the 5-10, 212-pound Silva, who has rushed for 1,460 yards and 16 touchdowns, gets most of his yardage in between the tackles.
"He runs with a lot of passion,'' Okimoto said. "His style is to hit the hole real hard – not dance around the hole. He provides a spark."
Hawaii has offered a scholarship to the 200-pound Taumua, who gives the Governors explosiveness outside the tackles. He has rushed for 1,127 yards and 14 TDs.
"He'll use his vision, and he'll cut back and bring some power,'' Okimoto said. "I don't know how many times he's hurdled a defender. He shows his athleticism.''
Okimoto said his team only passes between 10 and 12 times per game but credits receivers Joshua Teixeira and James Hashimoto and tight end Tyler Liana for the role they take on as blockers.
Because Kealakehe has its own beefy offensive line, Papalii said.
Farrington's size won't intimidate his defense.
Seniors Manase Hungalu and Kyler O'Halloran provide good pursuit from the linebacking corps, while seniors Travis Lualemaga and Jerone Moege give the Waveriders a solid push on the defensive line.
"They're used to going up against big bodies,'' Papalii said.
Papalii, who began his second stint as Kealakehe coach this season, admits the Waveriders face a tough task in stopping the Governors' ground game but maintains his team will also present a challenge for Farrington.
"(Silva and Taumua) are two of the best, most violent runners we're going to face all year,'' Papalii said. "But I believe it's going to be a test for their defense to stop our offense. So we're looking forward to it."
Running counters with shifty senior running back Lennox Jones (980 rushing yards, nine touchdowns), Kealakehe gets opposing defenses flowing in one direction while the 5-foot-6 Jones finds room to run the opposite direction.
Bruising 348-pound senior fullback David Fangupo (508 yards, nine touchdowns) complements Jones with some powerful, straight-ahead running behind a line that includes Feke Sopoaga-Kioa (6-2, 290), Tui Eli (6-3, 305), Prince Samoa (6-0, 340), Siosaia Kalavi (6-5, 335) and Giovanni Chanes-Rodriguez (6-1, 270).
Kealakehe will operate against a defense Okimoto said feeds off the emotion of its senior co-captains, linebacker Aisea Tavae (5-10, 224) and defensive end Vaoatea Sagapolu (6-1, 227).
"(Tavae) is a hard hitter,'' Okimoto said. "(Sagapolu) is a good pass rusher. … an inspirational leader – very passionate for the game.''
Historically, OIA Red teams defend the run very well, but Papalii said his team gained some confidence in a 10-3 win at OIA Red school Kailua on Aug. 11. The contest marked the first time the Waveriders defeated an OIA Red opponent on the road as Jones ran for 98 yards on 25 carries while Fangupo rushed for 61 yards and a touchdown.
"It's hard to run the ball (against the OIA), but you have to do what brought you here,'' Papaplii said.
At the same time, Papalii pointed out the Waveriders can run the ball out of a spread formation normally effective in passing offenses and that Kealakehe won't hesitate to go to the air if the Governors put eight or nine defenders near the line of scrimmage.
Kealakehe senior quarterback Jordan Cristobal has flourished running the ball (580 yards, six TDs), but he has also passed for 962 yards with 11 touchdowns and six interceptions.
"If you're going to crowd us too much, we're going to throw the ball,'' Papalii said. "That's why we run the spread. We hope that keeps them off-balance."
Farrington brought a similar team to Kealakehe in 2009, and the Governors ran past Honokaa 48-16 in a first-round playoff game before falling to OIA powerhouse Kahuku 9-6 in the semifinals.
The winner of today's game will take on Kahuku (10-0), this year's top seed, at either 4:30 or 7:30 p.m. Nov. 16 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu.
Okimoto said his team badly wants to play Kahuku after losing to the Red Raiders 31-6 at Aloha Stadium on Sept. 29. But the Farrington coach hopes the Governors don't overlook Kealakehe.
"We've got our hands full, and by no means do we want to be distracted by travel,'' he said. "Kealakehe has a good interest in advancing as we do.
"They need to take care of Kealakehe first."
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Husband and wife scout leaders received awards for decades of work with young people.
Carol and Len Denbigh received certificates for 40 years service to Scouting at Seventh Borehamwood Scouts' general meeting last week.
The pair currently lead the group, which meets at the Scout hall in Berwick Road.
Town Mayor Councillor Pat Strack said: "I think all who know Carol and Len will agree that this service award is well deserved. They have served county and district scouts and Seventh Borehamwood. They did not just serve their time but had a real effect on all areas of scouting. I doubt if there is any other husband and wife team who have served jointly in scouting for 40 years.
"I know everyone will all join me in congratulating them. Here's to the next 40 years."


text:
From JTAWiki
|From JTAWiki, a project by J Talon LLC
This turns the EarlyExit feature on and off. EarlyExit allows the EA to close the basket early by reducing the profit potential over time and/or number of levels open.
Default is False
|Copyright © 1995-2016 J Talon LLC, All rights reserved


text:
Digging out of debt keeps getting harder for the unemployed as more companies use detailed credit checks to screen job prospects.
Out of work since December, Juan Ochoa was delighted when a staffing firm recently responded to his posting on Hotjobs.com with an opening for a data-entry clerk. Before Ochoa could do much more, though, the firm checked his credit history.
The interest vanished. There were too many collections claims against him, the firm said.
"I never knew that nowadays they were going to start pulling credit checks on you even before you go for an interview," said Ochoa, 46, who lost his job in December tracking inventory at a mining company in Santa Fe Springs.
"Why would they need to pull a credit report? They'd need something like that if you were applying at a bank," Ochoa said.
Once reserved for government jobs or payroll positions that could involve significant sums of money, credit checks are now fast, cheap and used for all manner of work.
Employers, often winnowing a big pool of job applicants in days of nearly 10 percent unemployment, view the credit check as a valuable tool for assessing someone's judgment.
But job counselors worry that the practice of shunning those with poor credit may be unfair and trap the unemployed – who may be battling foreclosure, living off credit cards and confronting personal bankruptcy – in a financial death spiral: The worse their debts, the harder it is to get a job to pay them off.
"How do you get out from under it?" asked Matthew Finkin, a law professor at the University of Illinois, who fears that the unemployed and debt-ridden could form a luckless class. "You can't re-establish your credit if you can't get a job, and you can't get a job if you've got bad credit."
Others say that the credit check can be used to provide cover for discriminatory practices. Responding to complaints from constituents, lawmakers in a few states have recently proposed legislation that would restrict employers' use of credit checks. While some measures languish, Hawaii has just imposed new restraints.
Business executives say that they have an obligation to be diligent and to protect themselves from employees who may be unreliable, unwise or too susceptible to temptation to steal, and that credit checks are a help.
"If I see too many negative things coming up on a credit check, it's one of those things that raises a flag with me," said Anita Orozco, director of human resources at Sonneborn, a petrochemical company in Mahwah, N.J. She said that while bad credit alone would not be a reason to deny someone a job, it might reveal poor judgment.
"If you see a history of bad decision-making, you don't want that decision-making overflowing into your organization," Orozco said.
More than 40 percent of employers use credit checks at least sometimes, according to a 2004 survey by the Society for Human Resource Management, up from 25 percent in 1998. That share has almost certainly risen today, career counselors say.
"It has been an ongoing and increasing issue," said Mollie de Rojas, a district coordinator for local operations of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.
Credit counselors, worker advocates and the unemployed contend that a credit check is not always relevant to hiring decisions.
"There's no relationship between being a personal trainer making $12 an hour" and having a good credit history, said Janet Newcomb, a career counselor in Huntington Beach. "People are being turned down for jobs on the basis of things that really have nothing to do with qualifications."
That is the complaint of Kevin Palmer, 49, who for months lived at the same homeless shelter in Santa Ana as did Ochoa. After an interview at a property-management company that seemed to go well one day in June, a manager walked Palmer around the office the next day, introduced him to other employees and showed him an available desk.
A credit check later, the job offer vanished.
It was "a glorified clerk's job, taking homeowners' complaints," Palmer said of the opportunity, which paid about $39,000 and could have gotten him back on his feet after losing his condominium to foreclosure and filing for bankruptcy.
Last month, Palmer said he found a job at a property-management company in San Francisco – a company that did not run a credit check on him.
It is generally legal to run credit checks on job applicants, but some states have restrictions. In Washington, which has perhaps the most stringent requirement, a candidate's credit history must be substantially related to the job under a law that took effect in 2007.
Last month, lawmakers in Hawaii approved a measure that generally allows an employer to review a credit history only after making an offer and requires the credit check to be "directly related" to job qualifications.
In California, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a similar law.
Lawmakers in Michigan and Ohio have proposed barring employers from using credit history in making employment decisions.
"In my opinion, it's discrimination," said state Rep. Jon Switalski, the Democrat who proposed legislation in Michigan. "If you miss a few payments or you have medical debt, your skills as a pipefitter or an electrician don't diminish."
Courts have not been sympathetic to claims that discrimination is being cloaked in credit checks, said Angela Onwuachi-Willig, a law professor at the University of Iowa. "At what point does the fact that someone lives in a particular neighborhood or someone has a bad credit score become a way of eliminating people for illegal grounds?" she asked rhetorically. "Basically, the courts don't protect against proxy discrimination."
Stuart Ishimaru, acting chairman of the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, said it would probably issue guidance on the proper use of credit checks. Such guidance, though nonbinding, could offer some reassurance against lawsuits to employers who comply.
"It's something that intrigues us and worries us," Ishimaru said, adding that some job-related tests had led to discrimination claims in the past. "The question is, why do you use it? How is this a good screening device?"
When the job market improves and fewer people are fighting for slots, credit histories may become less important, said Michael C. Lazarchick, a career counselor in Pleasantville, N.J. "But these are lean and mean times."


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TDECU Stadium Deal Includes National Exposure
The $2.2 billion Texas Dow Employees Credit Union may get more than what it bargained for after signing a $15 million, 10-year naming rights deal Tuesday for the University of Houston's football stadium.
Credit unions typically pay for stadium or arena naming rights for branding and marketing opportunities to retain members and attract new ones by expanding local or regional market awareness.
However, the brand new $105 million, 40,000-seat facility will open as TDECU Stadium Aug. 29 to a national audience of college football fans.
On that evening, the University of Houston Cougars football team will host the UTSA Roadrunners, giving the night lights of TDECU Stadium an opportunity to shine on ESPNU TV.
The naming rights deal provides the credit union with a suite on the 50-yeard line, one of 26 sold out suites in the facility. Additionally, TDECU members and employees will receive ticket discounts.
"We are proud to have the TDECU name on the new stadium as a visible sign of our commitment to the University and the Houston community," TDECU President/CEO Stephanie Sherrodd said in a prepared statement. "TDECU's core values are shared by the University of Houston in improving the lives of those around us in order to build for the future."
The naming rights deal also requires TDECU to sponsor the "Cougar 100," which recognizes fast-growing businesses owned or led by UH alumni.
The Lake Jackson, Texas-based TDECU serves more than 186,000 members and is the largest credit union in the Houston market.


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"It's like an alcoholic at the end of the night when the bars close, and the solution is to open the bar for another hour," Mr. Hess said.
Education Stimulus Quote of the Day
Right on, brother. As American Enterprise Institute's Rick Hess says in today's New York Times piece about the education stimulus:


text:
Childcare vouchers whilst on maternity leave(11 Posts)
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Tiger boys mark sixth win
The Morris Area/Chokio-Alberta boys basketball team took a loss to Lac Qui Parle Valley last Friday, but marked a sixth W of the season with a win over Yellow Medicine East Tuesday night in Morris. The Tigers are now 6-11 overall, 4-6 in the West Central Conference, and being in the tougher South subsection of Section 6AA, the Tigers are behind holding a 3-4 section record.
LQPV 66, Morris/C-A 56 Lucas Strand led the Lac Qui Parle Valley Eagles with 18 points and Kellen Kessler scored all nine of his points from the three-point line in a nonconference win over the Tigers on Friday, Jan. 24.
Brandon Hill had eight points and six assists and Garrett Olson and Noah Jensen both scored eight. Olson also had five blocked shots in the win for LQPV.
The Tiger's Noah Grove hit five three-pointers and scored a game-high 19 points and Bryce Jergenson added 11.
Eric Staebler was tamed to just seven points on the night, his first single digit scoring game all season. Staebler was also tamed on the boards, but still led the Tigers with just six.
Morris/C-A 29 27 — 56
MORRIS/CHOKIO-ALBERTA – 22-61 FG (8 3-pt); 4-8 FT; 30 rebounds; 15 fouls; Scoring: Noah Grove 19, Ian Howden 6, Bryce Jergenson 11, Riley Biesterfeld 3, Jacob Zosel 1, C.J. Nagel 2, Nathan Anderson 4, Eric Staebler 7, Joey Dufault 3; 3-point shots: Grove 5, Jergenson 1, Staebler 1, Dufault 1; Rebound leaders: Staebler 6, Anderson 5, Biesterfeld 5; Assist leaders: Zosel 4; Steal leaders: Anderson 2, Staebler 2
LAC QUI PARLE VALLEY – 26-45 FG (4-12 3-pt); 10-15 FT; 23 rebounds; 9 fouls; Scoring: Kellen Kessler 9, Jon Nielsen 5, Austin Haas 4, Garrett Olson 8, Cody Nesvold 6, Lucas Strand 18, Brandon Hill 8, Noah Jensen 8; 3-point shots: Kessler 3, Nielsen 1; Rebound leaders: Jensen 4; Assist leaders: Hill 6; Steal leaders: Strand 2
Morris/C-A 75, YME 63 The Tigers do better in their home gym, now holding a 4-5 record at home after their sixth win of the season against Yellow Medicine East on Tuesday, Jan. 28.
Just six Tigers scored in the 75-63 win over YME.
Staebler was back in the action full throttle as he scored 32 points and picked up 11 rebounds for the Tigers. Grove added 22 points, five assists, four steals and hit four three-pointers. Jergenson also had five assists along with six points in the win.
YME's Blake Lindstrom scored a game-high 35 points in the losing effort.
Morris/C-A 39 36 — 75
MORRIS/CHOKIO-ALBERTA – 28-51 FG (5-11 3-pt); 14-23 FT; 28 rebounds; 17 fouls; Scoring: Noah Grove 22, Bryce Jergenson 6, Jacob Zosel 4, Andrew Goulet 4, Nathan Anderson 7, Eric Staebler 32; 3-point shots: Grove 4, Staebler 1; Rebound leaders: Staebler 11, Jergenson 7; Assist leaders: Grove 5, Jergenson 5; Steal leaders: Grove 4
YELLOW MEDICINE EAST – 21-47 FG (7-18 3-pt); 14-18 FT; 21 rebounds; 18 fouls; Scoring: Austin Vikander 3, Grant Lalim 2, Blake Lindstrom 35, Chase Richter 12, Tyson Velde 5, Logan DeBlieck 6; 3-point shots: Lindstrom 7; Rebound leaders: Lindstrom 7; Assist leaders: Lindstrom 4
The Tigers are on the road for their next four games: BOLD on Friday, Jan. 31, West Central Area on Saturday, Feb. 1, Sauk Centre on Friday, Feb. 7, and Benson on Saturday, Feb. 8.


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That's for sure! I think if they were to show him from the neck down, missing his head...everyone would know who it was!Originally Posted by Kip;4054580;
That's for sure! I think if they were to show him from the neck down, missing his head...everyone would know who it was!Originally Posted by Kip;4054580;
Tim's VLog this week was hilarious. Crack smoking judges - LMAO
Videos Posted by Tim Gunn: Official Page: Season 8.Episode 7 Recap [HD] | Facebook
Last edited by jucamer; 09-11-2010 at 10:05 AM.
I just watched his blog, and I have to admit he has only made me more impressed at what he says and does.
He was spot on and honest about how he feels on the show. And, you can CLEARLY tell he was not impressed with the judges' decisions this week (and yes, I mean both).
Not sure if it's a spoiler, so I'm posting it as such:
Click to see Spoiler:You can sense that he feels that Ivy was kept SOLELY for ratings, and that he felt that Casanova's outfit was much better and more resort wear. He also still clearly doesn't like Gretchen, as point by the "Gretchen has some competition" snipe.
What? Where did you get your "spoilers" from? And that "Gretchen snipe" was said in jest.Originally Posted by jadewarlock;4058781;
Anyways, there's apparently a feud brewing between Tim and Anna Wintour because of his new book. He apparently had a recollection of bodyguards carrying La Wintour down a flight of stairs after attending a show. And, now, she's demanding he apologize. He's sticking to his Gunns (pardon the pun).
Last edited by watts; 09-11-2010 at 01:45 PM.
five flights of stairs!!!!! He was telling the story on REGIS and used it as the most memorable thing he has seen in the fashion industry. LOL
It's not exactly spoilers, but I didn't want to give anything really away from his comments in his vlog if people don't really want to read it or want to watch for themselves.Originally Posted by watts;4058817;
It may be in Jest at least appearances, but the vibe and tone I get from Tim is that he's not fond of Gretchen.
And, I could sense that Tim was not fond of the decision of the winner or the person taken out of the game this go. Watching the episode and seeing comments about Ivy's garments on the channel's main Web site, I can see where he's coming from.
I'm not sure if Gretchen is your favorite and hence why the comment here, but if she is, I respect that totally, as this is my opinion. I do feel from his mannerisms and tone speaking about the two women, that he's not happy with their staying there and really wasn't about Ivy's staying after this week.
I was just wondering if your spoilers were based on the link provided to the vlog or another vlog that Tim made. Because his vlog was not very specific about Ivy being kept solely for ratings or Casanova's look being more resort wear. OK, I get that you were expressing your views but it implied that that was Tim's views in his vblog. His comments on that topic was terse and majority of what he had to say was the producers misunderstanding his rules for the challenge, which was his idea. That's all.Originally Posted by jadewarlock;4058868;
Anyone else reading Tim's new book? I'm only a tiny way in but I'm loving it. I totally have Tim's voice in my head as I read it. Even though I'm barely 3 chapters in, it seems he tangoed a lot less with the Bravo producers than the Lifetime producers, which ties into the latest vlog. So far my favorite story is about Diane Von Furstenberg's desire for a hot dog...a total LOL moment!
So you would recommend it? I'm a speed reader, so I need lots of books on hand!Originally Posted by PhoneGrrrl;4059131;
I like it's dishy style and quick read.


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I have never had gooey butter cake but I find the thought of it absolutely delicious and the picture on the front of this one just looks so delightfully sinful and yummy.
This arrived a few weeks ago but I had a cold at the time and couldn't taste diddley squat so I have had to put off the tasting session until this morning. I kept looking at it every day thinking "I will be admiring you soon" and soon never seemed soon enough.
Raw this has a lovely black and gold mixture in colour and it smells like creamy vanilla and sweet lemon (the lemon surprised me). I had a good look at gooey butter cake recipes online and none have mentioned having lemon in them but I am thinking that maybe this might be a personal twist on the classic recipe.
I noticed that other tasters mentioned adding milk and sugar but I am going to try my first cup 'au natural'. Especially if this tastes as it smells then I will be in creamy lemon heaven.
Smell wise once brewed this has taken on a slightly earthier tone which is probably from the black tea but the vanilla and lemon still peak through quite strongly.
I may have over steeped this for a minute or so as the black tea is quite strong and has a slight bitterness to it. I do like my black tea's strong but I think that with the lemon in this tea that strength is not necessary. The flavours do taste as it smells (creamy lemony and smooth) and the black is a dark and roasted kind of taste.
I honestly cannot taste cake or a dessert at all but it is very nice. It's just more of a creamy lemon drink which may be creamier with added milk. I suppose I can try that now. Dashes off to put a drop of milk in. It now has milk and has cooled down slightly, well it does taste creamier and some of the bitterness from the black has gone so it's much smoother and creamier (both of which are positive). Still creamy and lemony just a lot more so with the milk.
It's a nice drink as I love lemon and if you were to argue it was cakey then it would be some sort of lemon cake (lemon squares, lemon pound cake etc) but I can't taste any butter. I think the vanilla like flavour is meant to mimic the butter but I just taste more vanilla then butter and with the lemon being over the top of the two flavours it's hard to define it.
I will have no problem finishing the rest of this pouch but I am slightly disappointed that it doesn't taste as I imagined.


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The biggest rivalry? Come on …
It seems like the hyperbole is already a little out of control here. Patriots-Colts, the biggest rivalry? Calm down, folks.
"Michigan-Ohio State is much bigger," Tom Brady said today, cracking a wide smile. "Yeah, probably. We've had a pretty good run here for a long time. So have they. So you're talking about two of the better teams that have played in the league here for probably the last decade. It's probably because there's been so many critical games. Even though they're not in our division, we know them so well. And they know us so well."
Agreed. Without question.
When ESPN ranked the top rivalries of the 20th century, Ohio State-Michigan was No. 1. Want perspective? Yankees-Red Sox was sixth.
Even established pro-sports rivalries lack that extra "something" that the best college rivalries have. I'd take OSU-Michigan, Auburn-Alabama, or UNC-Duke in basketball over any pro sports rivalry. And beyond just that, when all is said and done, will this one be remembered as Patriots-Colts?
Fair or unfair, probably not as much as it's remembered as Brady-Manning. Great rivalry? Yes. The best? Go to Brady for that answer.
Full disclosure: I am, indeed, an Ohio State alum from a family full of Michigan alums. Which might or might not sway my opinion in this case.


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Work group to discuss possible new water quality standards that would help assess acidification threats
By Summit Voice
SUMMIT COUNTY — The EPA is taking a step toward tackling the issue of ocean acidification, which is leading toward a huge marine biodiversity catastrophe. The agency recently said it will task a panel of scientists to discuss a petition from the Center for Biological Diversity that requests new water quality standards to enable better detection and monitoring of acidification.
Some of the carbon dioxide pollution in the atmosphere is finding its way to the seas, where it's changing the basic chemistry of the water and starting to have an impact on corals, shelfish and other marine organisms. One recent study showed exactly how ocean acidification is dissolving the shells of tiny sea snails in the Southern Ocean.
The federal government also has an interagency working group, with scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey, the National Park Service, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other agencies working on the issue.
"We're happy to see the EPA taking this first step toward protecting fisheries and coastal ecosystems before it's too late," said Miyoko Sakashita, oceans director at the Center. "Our oceans are in the midst of a dangerous transformation that, left unchecked, will make sea waters inhospitable for many, many animals. It's not too late, though, and this working group will be tasked with deciding where the tipping points are, so we can act now to prevent the worst effects."
"The EPA agrees with the Center for Biological Diversity and other experts in the field that recent scientific research indicates that other ocean chemistry indicators and biological parameters, beyond pH, may be relevant for ocean acidification," the EPA wrote in its response letter to the petition. For example, scientists have discovered that most corals can no longer grow if waters become to corrosive.
The petition also asked the agency to publish guidance that will help states determine if their coastal waters are impaired by ocean acidification. In 2010, the EPA directed states to periodically evaluate the impacts of ocean acidification on their coastal waters under the Clean Water Act. The move came in response to a settlement of a lawsuit brought by the Center that claimed the EPA had failed to address the impairment of waters affected by ocean acidification off Washington state.
"We need a national plan to deal with ocean acidification, and the EPA's announcement that it will start to tackle the problem head-on is good news," said Sakashita.
The oceans absorb 22 million tons of carbon dioxide pollution each day, which is changing ocean chemistry. Seawater is becoming more acidic, which makes it difficult for animals to build the protective shells and skeletons they need to survive. Already, ocean acidification has caused oyster die-offs in the Pacific Northwest, sluggish coral growth in the Great Barrier Reef, and plankton to grow thinner, weaker shells in high latitudes.
To learn more, go to EndangeredOceans.org .
Related articles
- Ocean acidification affecting Arctic at fast pace (cbc.ca)
- Arctic faces further threat from ocean acidification (guardian.co.uk)
- A Blue View: Understanding Ocean Acidification (nationalaquarium.wordpress.com)
- Global warming threatens Atlantic cod stocks (summitcountyvoice.com)


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Darius Rapalis
May 26, 2015 · Public
Hi there everybody!!!!
It was a long time I wasn't here. I was really busy with studies and actually forgot about this awesome social network :) But I'm back and I hope I won't disappear again :)
However, I returned with some content :) I've started drawing anime/manga not sure witch one :D
here's a page where I'll be uploading all my drawings and time-lapse video of me drawing :)
Feel free to follow this page, post a comment with your opinion, criticism and anything You would like to say :)


text: Easy to find hotel. Ideal location as to the lake, Polynesian Spa, Clean. Nice and well organized Maori show, good food. Rooms clean and worthy its money. Pool OK. Nice water temperature. Though private small pool a bit of disappointment not as to quality of the dip and water but looks is left behind the presentation of the whole hotel.... More


text: I have a SWR SM-900 classic and I had a few questions about watts and ohms. 1. In bridge mode it pushes 900w @ 4ohms and 650w @ 8ohms. So if I had two 8ohm cabs does that mean it draws the 4ohm load? And if so does it split the 4ohm load between the two cabs(450w to each cab)? 2. In stereo mode it pushes 400w @ 4ohms and 240w @ 8ohms per side. So if I had a 8ohm cab on each side, is each cab going to pull the full 8ohms? I'm guessing that they would seeing there on diffrent sides.


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Brandon General Museum and Archives Inc.
- Address:19 - 9th Street BRANDON, MB R7A 4A3
- Phone:(204) 717-1514
- Email:Send E-mail
- Website:Visit Our Website For More Info
The BGMA is a community museum dedicated to the preservation of Brandon's history. With exhibits rotating every few months, there's always something new to see!
- Association of Manitoba Museums:
- Free admission:
- Manitoba History:
- Full wheelchair access:
Tour Information
- Self-guided tour:


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DETROIT (AP) — A federal judge agreed with Detroit on Wednesday and stopped any lawsuits challenging the city's bankruptcy, declaring his courtroom the exclusive venue for legal action in the largest filing by a local government in U.S. history.
The decision by U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Steven Rhodes was a major victory for Detroit, especially after an Ingham County judge last week said Gov. Rick Snyder ignored the Michigan Constitution and acted illegally in approving the Chapter 9 filing. That ruling and others had threatened to derail the case.
Retirees had sued, claiming the bankruptcy threatened their pensions that are protected by the constitution.
Rhodes said there's nothing in federal law or the U.S. Constitution that gives a state court a shared role in a bankruptcy.
Questions about Detroit's eligibility to overhaul itself through bankruptcy "are within this court's exclusive jurisdiction," he said.
Michael Nicholson, general counsel for the United Auto Workers, said he plans to review the judge's order with his colleagues and decide whether to appeal, but he says the rulings raise "serious issues about the relationship of state and federal government."


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After a tough day on the convention floor, you may be tempted to plan your evening around a foot massage and a pay-per-view movie in your hotel room. What, in a city like Chicago? Come on—hit the shower, grab some friends and get moving. No idea what you want to do? We've asked some adventurous CIROBE regulars to share their favorite must-see Chicago experiences.
Gene Paquette, CIROBE v-p: "As everyone knows, Chicago is a great music town. For a down-home blues experience, visit Lee's Unleaded Blues [773-493-3477, 7401 S. Chicago Ave.], which has a full-scale revue every weekend. For jazz lovers, I'd recommend the Velvet Lounge [312-791-9050, 212 1/2 S. Illinois Ave.], owned by veteran free-jazz pioneer Fred Anderson. Chicago also has a thriving alternative country scene; one of its homes is the Hideout [773-227-4433, 1354 W. Wabansia], a hole-in-the-wall, old-style Chicago tavern hidden away in an industrial neighborhood."
Mary Magers, manager, Magers & Quinn Booksellers, Minneapolis, Minn.: "I always go to Nacional 27 [312-664-2727, 325 W. Huron St.] to see the salsa dancers. Even if you don't salsa or meringue, it's fun to sit back with a mojito or margarita, have some ceviche and people-watch. Another favorite is taking a cab to a bar or restaurant a few miles from the Hilton and then convincing my companions to walk back to the hotel along Michigan Avenue. I love the sights and sounds and revisiting my favorite buildings. And even if you've had a few cocktails, as long as you determine which direction the Lake is, you don't have to worry about getting lost."
Brad Jonas, CIROBE cofounder: "The great new thing for anyone visiting Chicago has to be Millennium Park, on Michigan Avenue between Randolph and Monroe [www.millenniumpark.org]. You can't miss seeing architect Frank Gehry's music pavilion and pedestrian bridge and the fountain designed by Spanish sculptor Jaume Plensa with its two 50-foot-high glass-block towers."
Marshall Smith, co-owner, Key West Island Books, Key West, Fla.: "I never miss a chance to visit the Art Institute [312-443-3600, 111 S. Michigan Ave.] and take in Monet's Haystacks and the collection of Joseph Cornell boxes. It's a miraculous place."
Roberta Rubin, owner, The Book Stall at Chestnut Court, Winnetka, Ill.: "I can't say enough about Chicago's incredible theater scene and our symphony orchestra. During CIROBE, the world premiere of a new Arthur Miller play, Finishing the Picture, will be at the Goodman Theatre [312-443-3800, 170 N. Dearborn St.; www.goodman-theatre.org]; Ronald Harwood's The Dresser will be at the Steppenwolf [312-335-1650, 1650 N. Halsted St.; www.steppenwolf.org]; and The Merry Wives of Windsor is at the Shakespeare Theater at Navy Pier [312-595-5600, 800 E. Grand Ave.; www.chicagoshakes.com]. At Orchestra Hall, the Chicago Symphony [312-294-3333, 220 S. Michigan Ave.] will be performing Schoenberg and Schubert."
Stephen Ash, managing director, Grange Books, U.K.: "Blues clubs, especially Kingston Mines [773-477-4646, 2548 N. Halsted St.]. I've heard a guitarist who could play like there was no tomorrow and a girl singer (who was as big as a stick insect) whose voice seemed to come from the other side of the world. Brilliant stuff. I've often left the club at 3 a.m. and been ready for work at 7 a.m., tired but happy."
Jonathan Haupt, assistant marketing manager, Southern Illinois University Press: "Last year, I made my first visit to Greek Town [www.chicagogreektown.com]—with no less a personage than acclaimed Chicago novelist Harry Mark Petrakis as my guide. Now, any visit to Chicago will be incomplete without a return to that Halsted Street neighborhood and its numerous excellent restaurants. I'd also suggest a trip to the new Barbara's Bookstore [312-413-2665, 1218 S. Halsted St.], where they're still telling tales about the Clinton signing!"
Tamara Stock, director of wholesale operations, Daedalus Books: "I'll take someone who's never been to Chicago before (preferably someone from abroad) to the observatory at the top of the John Hancock building [888-875-8439, 875 N. Michigan Ave.]. On a clear night, it never fails to make a great impression."
Stina Forsell, owner, Maximus Books: "My pug, Maximus, who is the mascot and true boss of the operation, wouldn't dream of missing CIROBE. In the morning, before the show starts, Max and I love to walk in Grant Park and along the lake. And this year, I'll be taking my British colleagues back to Timothy O'Toole's Pub [312-642-0700, 622 N. Fairbanks Ct.] for a rematch—the last game of darts we played, I won!"
Mike Galvin, inventory asset manager, Time Warner Books: "Shopping at all the used CD stores and the Virgin Megastore [312-645-9300, 540 N. Michigan Ave.]—even though we have one here in Boston, Chicago's is bigger and has a much better selection of hard-to-find imported CDs. Nadine LeBlanc, our assistant inventory asset manager, spends her free time looking around downtown for a place to rent a surfboard so she can try catching a few waves on Lake Michigan."


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Monday, August 2, 1999 Published at 18:00 GMT 19:00 UK
Business: Your Money
Mobile phone price war
Supermarkets take up the challenge to slash mobile phone prices
The UK's biggest supermarket chains have cut the price of pre-paid mobile phones by up to 50% in a price war.
Asda said it would sell Cellnet pre-paid mobiles for Ł39.99 from Tuesday in response to an announcement by Tesco's that it was offering mobiles from all four major network operators - Cellnet, One 2 One, Orange and Vodaphone - for only Ł49.99. Sainsbury's has also joined in the scrap.
Tesco's began the price war by challenging its competitors and the network operators to make pre-paid mobiles more affordable for consumers.
Big reductions
The network operators, other supermarket chains and high street stores, such as Carphone Warehouse, sell the packages for between Ł69.99 and Ł79.99.
Tesco's commercial director John Gildersleeve said: "We are introducing some real price competition.
"We want to do the same to the mobile phone market as we have done to the computer market - making them easily accessible at realistic prices."
Tesco's has already sold 230,000 pay-as-you-talk mobile phones in the UK. Pre-paid packages allow customers to buy a phone handset and starter pack without signing a service contract or paying monthly bills.
Instead, customers buy top-up cards from retailers to give them call time.
The Asda spokesman added: "We are planning to introduce pre-paid phones from the other three major network operators as soon as possible and will keep customers updated.
A Sainsbury's spokeswoman said it had also cut the price of its pre-paid mobile range to match Tesco's: "We sell the Vodaphone and One 2 One mobiles and they are a very popular range.
"We are keen to offer our customers the best price for them and from tomorrow both will cost Ł49.99."
"Not a charity"
But one of the country's leading pre-paid mobile phone operators, One 2 One, hit back at the supermarket chains and refused to cut the cost of its pre-paid service.
A spokeswoman said: "It's the handset manufacturers that should be asked to bring their prices down, not us.
"We are not actually a charity. Our lowest price pre-paid handset costs Ł69.99 and that comes with a start-up pack for new customers.
"We already subsidise every handset by about Ł200 and there is no way we can bring down the price any further.
Timely reminder
Mobile phone users have been urged to be more considerate when using their phones, switching them off during films and plays.
Cellnet has launched a Ł150,000 campaign to promote more responsible mobile use.
The Switch It campaign uses a public information film to be shown in UK cinemas from Friday to highlight its message.
It explains that the convenience of mobile phones does not give users the right to intrude on other people's lives by interrupting films or plays, spoiling the enjoyment of restaurants or disrupting business meetings.
Your Money Contents


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A man carries a refrigerator while evacuating from a high-risk zone for landslides in the low-income sector of Tamanaquito in Caracas, Venezuela. A woman died during a landslide in the slum Tuesday after heavy rains over the past few days, local media and rescue officials reported.
Carlos Garcia Rawlins/Reuters
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