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Free a Reader; Free a Book back for second year at Airdrie Public Library
Thursday, Feb 20, 2014 06:00 am
After a successful inaugural event last year, the Airdrie Public Library is once again asking residents to support intellectual freedom with the Free a Reader; Free a Book fundraiser.
The event places volunteers and the books they love that have been banned or challenged in the Cage of Oppression until at least $100 in pledges is collected for each book.
�Freedom of thought and expression is a basic freedom in our country,� said Anne Beaty, communications and fund development co-ordinator with the library. �The freedom to pick up a book or go on the Internet and read what you want is essential.�
The fundraiser runs at the library from Feb. 24 through to March 1, and is a part of the library�s recognition of Freedom to Read Week, which sees libraries across Canada reaffirm their commitment to intellectual freedom and the fundamental right of everyone to freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression.
While this is only the second year of Free a Reader; Free a Book, the library has participated in Freedom to Read Week for many years, Beaty said.
The money raised from Free a Reader; Free a Book will benefit the library�s collections budget.
Last year�s fundraising event raised $7,000 for the library and �freed� about 20 books.
�These are all book that have been challenged or banned over the years and some continue to be,� Beaty said of the hundreds of books that have been suggested to be unsuitable to be included in schools or public libraries.
These books include classics like Gone With the Wind and The Wizard of Oz, James and the Giant Peach and the Harry Potter series.
�We shouldn�t just take (our freedom to read) for granted and let someone else decide what books should be in our libraries and what we can have access to,� Beaty said.
Last year�s event saw some notable Airdronians spend some �hard time� in the Cage of Oppression, including Mayor Peter Brown, several Airdrie Public Library board members, Airdrie Fire Chief Kevin Weinberger and several members of City council.
Brown will once again get locked up in support of the library, along with some of the library board members.
Pledges can be made by directly contacting a Cage of Oppression volunteer, or at the library.
For more information, visit www.airdriepubliclibrary.ca


text: I have a 3 year old Kenmore propane grill. The heat diffusers are already rotted away. What type of metal can I buy to make my own supply, rather than buy new replacement parts for $$$$$$? I dont care if its one long diffuser or 4 for all four burners. Thanks!! Mark

subset: commoncrawl


text: For the October event, the trajectory analysis indicated that dust deposition took place during 13–15 October 2000. Mobilisation areas of dust were mainly identified in the Algerian and Libyan deserts. A combination of an upper-level potential vorticity streamer and a midlevel jet across Algeria first brought moist Atlantic air and later mixed air from the tropics and Saharan desert across the Mediterranean towards the Alps. The March event consisted of two different deposition phases which took place during 17–19 and 23–25 March 2000. The first phase was associated with an exceptional transport pathway past Iceland and towards the Alps from northerly directions. The second phase was similar to the October event. A significant peak of methanesulphonic acid associated with the March dust event was most likely caused by incorporation of biogenic aerosol while passing through the marine boundary layer of the western Mediterranean during a local phytoplankton bloom. From this study, we conclude that for a detailed understanding of the chemical signal recorded in dust events at Piz Zupó, it is essential to consider the whole transport sequence of mineral aerosol, consisting of dust mobilisation, transport, and deposition at the glacier.


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Search for stellar escape review
Stellar Escape Android Game Review
Overview Owing to its use of the United 3D Engine which was also the game engine used in Dungeon Defenders for Android and Infinity Blade for iPhone, I have high expectations for Stellar Escape. This is the first game developed by the Swedish company Orange Agenda. The game belongs to the running or dash game genre. The first game that will pr...Read more


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We all want our work to speak for itself, but sometimes we need to speak up for our work — pitches, client meetings and interviews are a handful of scenarios that require us to express self confidence. While we know what confident people look like and act like, we don't always know how they get there. One Login's Director of Design, Chloë Bregman says that self confidence comes from having a strong sense and value of self, and understanding that you are of value to the world.
She shares four simple ways to build self-confidence:
Take Up Space
Take up more physical space in the world. Stand like you rule all of the apes, are king of the world, and can fly! Do this for 2 min every day preferably before doing whatever it is you want to be more confident doing.
Breathe Expansively
Learn to breathe expansively. Just as one key to projecting confidence is taking up space physically, another key is being able to take up space internally with your breath. The yogis have had this figured out for hundreds of years .
See It & Believe It
Visualize yourself doing what you want to do with confidence. This is a technique we are stealing from elite athletes. The secret to this technique is not picturing yourself confident in the one moment when you have to execute; the real benefits come from picturing yourself confidently working up to the point when you need to shine.
Be Your Cheerleader
Change your internal story of yourself to change your world. Turn off the voice that puts you down inside your head. There are enough people who will not support you in the world. You can't control those people. They exist. You can control whether or not you let them into your head.
Follow these steps regularly to boost your confidence. Head over to Medium to read the rest of Bregman's post. For more perspective, watch Dr. Ivan Joseph's TEDx talk, "The Skill of Self Confidence."


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(WBIR) Several members of the "Duck Dynasty crew stopped by Sevierville this weekend to speak to thousands of East Tennessee teenagers.
John Luke and Sadie Robertson spoke at the Connect Student Conference about their journey through life and how their faith has helped guide them.
The teens also briefly touched on the recent controversy surrounding their grandfather's brief suspension from the A&E tv series.
"Just pray that we stay together as a family, because that's the most important part of the show. That is what 'Duck Dynasty' is about, it's family, it's faith, it's fun," Sadie Robertson said.
The teens mother, Korie Robertson, also made a surprise appearance to join them and their younger sister for a prayer on stage.
Around 5,000 teens from across the region were in attendance for the weekend-long convention at the Sevierville Events Center.


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Get a free shipping quote.
This is a big mare ,6 years old, a good 16++, on vices, a 10+++ mover that was green broke as a two year old and just running free ever since. Turned out with mares and geldings.She is very dark but I can't call her black although she does not fade out in the summer sun. Very nice to work around, no vices, never bred, can be vetted. The picture does not do her justice.
small race horse farm located in Maryland. Races at all the major track. Has tredmill training and grass galloups.
Avoid Scams and Fraud - Potential areas of fraud: wire transfer, moneygrams, money orders, cashier checks, shipping, escrow, "transaction protection", "guarantee". Check out the Buyer Safety section for more info.


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What causes Crohn's?
The causes of Crohn's disease are not known. Diet and stress were once believed to be responsible. However, we now know that these may aggravate the disease, but they do not cause it. Research suggests that a malfunctioning immune system, genetics, and environment may be factors in the development of the disease.
Immune system
A main characteristic of Crohn's disease is chronic inflammation. Inflammation is a normal response of the immune system to outside invaders such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Some researchers believe that Crohn's disease may start as a normal response to an outside invader. Then the immune system fails to shut off after the infection has resolved, resulting in chronic inflammation.
Another theory is that the immune system mistakes the normal bacteria of the intestinal tract for invading microorganisms and responds by attacking them. When your immune system attacks normal parts of your body, it is called an autoimmune disorder.
It is also theorized that the immune system may be activated by mistaking certain protein or carbohydrate structures on some foods for an invading organism or some of your body's own tissue.
Evidence suggests that genetics plays a large role in the development of Crohn's disease.
The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) says that according to studies, 5 to 20 percent of people with Crohn's disease have a first-degree relative, which is a parent, child, or sibling, with the disease. A specific gene mutation that increases the risk of Crohn's has also been identified.
Crohn's disease is more common in people of Northern European and Anglo-Saxon descent and is many times more common in Jewish people of European descent, also called Ashkenazi Jews, than in the rest of the population. Crohn's occurs much less frequently in central and southern Europe, and less still in South America, Asia, and Africa. It is beginning to occur more frequently in blacks and Latin Americans living in North America. This and other evidence strongly suggest that heredity alone is not always responsible.
Crohn's is more common in industrialized nations and in urban areas. People who live in northern climates seem to have a greater risk of developing the disease. This suggests that environmental factors such as pollution, stress, diet, and lifestyle may play a role.
Risk factors
Other risk factors
The following factors may increase your risk of developing Crohn's disease.
Cigarette smoking
Cigarette smoking seems to contribute to the development of Crohn's. If you have Crohn's and smoke, your symptoms are likely to be more severe, and you are more likely to require surgery.
Crohn's can occur at any age, but most people who develop the disease are diagnosed before age 30.
The causes of Crohn's disease have not been determined for certain. Research shows that the immune system, genetics, and the environment all play a part. Smoking can also increase your risk. If you do have Crohn's disease, pay attention to your diet and stress levels, as these may aggravate the disease.


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CLEVELAND -- Baseball season is about to start. Spring is coming. And the debate over renewing the sin tax is heating up.
A new group, The Coalition Against the Sin Tax, is hoping to make its case to voters primarily through social media -- a website and Twitter handle.
Downtown lawyer Peter Pattakos is the group's chairman.
"Our objectives are transparency and fairness. ... This has just been rushed through. ... There has been no meaningful public debate about exactly what our obligations are," he said.
"We are looking for a better deal for the public or at least being able to understand what the deal is," he said.
Pattakos says this sin tax campaign is "doing something because it's easy and not necessarily because it's the right thing."
Cuyahoga County voters will decide May 6 whether to renew the existing sin tax on cigarettes and alcohol. It would be for 20 years and pay for needed repairs at The Q, Progressive Field and FirstEnergy Stadium.
Tax backers argue it's a small tax needed to take care of publicly owned buildings that the city and county have lease obligations requiring them to maintain.
Proponents argue the facilities events' have brought millions of visitors and billions of dollars to spur development and business downtown.
The coalition claims to have 1,600 supporters on board backing the idea of reworking the link between professional sports teams and the community.
Pattakos says: "They are public when it comes to paying the costs, and they are private when it comes to the owners taking profits out. We think this ballot issue is a great opportunity to reevaluate that relationship."
The coalition was built on Facebook efforts of tax opponent Alan Glazen. He was involved in the first two sin tax campaigns and claims their messages were based on false claims of jobs and benefits.
He believes if the tax is defeated, the city and county should seek to rework leases with the teams. He also claims the money raised -- an estimated $260 million to $290 million -- won't be enough to cover the public repair obligations.
"We are going to throw $300 million at people without even requiring to say exactly how it will be spent," he said.
He continued, "We are not going to give welfare money to billionaires any more. We can draw a line in the sand and say 'That's it.' "
Nancy Lesic, spokeswoman for the pro-sin tax campaign Keep Cleveland Strong, says: "The statement that this money goes to billionaire owners is false. Not a penny goes to team owners. All of the money would go to making capital repairs for these three publicly owned buildings, which the public is obligated to make."
"His comment that 'We are going to throw $300 million at people without saying how it will be spent' is also grossly misleading," she said. "The teams publicly outlined dozens of specific examples of how it will be spent. These misleading comments contribute to a rapidly growing list of inaccurate statements being made by this group that are clearly designed to be provocative and incendiary.
"If this penny and a half per beer tax is not renewed, the cost of these looming repairs will fall to the city -- putting critical city services at risk."
This weekend, the Keep Cleveland Strong pro-tax campaign will begin running ads featuring real Clevelanders, rather than team owners or politicians.
The first one features Billy Chambers, a local Irish band member, speaking from a bar near the Flats.
Below is an interview with Coalition Against the Sin Tax Chairman Peter Pattakos.
He lives in Bath, not Cuyahoga County. He is caring for elderly parents.
He says he is heavily invested in Cleveland and eventually intends to move into the county.


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Triathlon tough
Alexandria's Joe Schneiderhan topped the field of 165 to win the 2008 Chain of Lakes Sprint Triathlon on a very cold and extremely windy Saturday morning.
Schneiderhan, 42, had a finish of 1:02:08, completing the swim portion in 10:27, and the biking event in 33:54.
Alexandria swim coach Mark Storhaug, 49, finished 21st in the event, with Brad Lake, 41, finishing 27th.
Alexandria's Taylor Ellison, 18, was the first local woman across the finish line, coming in 43rd overall with a time of 1:19.15. That also earned her first place in her age group and fourth overall in the female division.
Finishing first in the overall women's division was Jennifer Lenarz with a time of 1:10:54. She was also first in the 30-39 age group.
In the women's 20-29 age group, Jeanna Baratto of Crosslake was first with a time of 1:13:17, while in the 40-49 age group, Amy Woolsey of Sauk Rapids was first in 1:14.33.
Jan Handlos of Baxter took first in the women's 50-59 age group in 1:25:06.
For the men's division, James Toay of Maple Grove was first in the 1-19 age group in 1:04:09, while Aaron Olson of St. Paul was first in the 20-29 age group with a time of 1:06:27 and Jesse Moen was first in the 30-39 age group in 1:03:29.
In the 50-59 age group, Larry Stracke of Sauk Rapids was first in 1:06:08 and in the 60-98 age group, Larry White of Des Moines, IA was first in 1:29.09.
The winning team in the open relay was Trip, McNeely and Coll (Adam Schackman, Ryan Daniel and Steve Tacl) which finished in 1:08:34, while the top local team was See Dad Run (Brock Vestrum, Luke Vestrum and Harley Vestrum), which completed the triathlon in 1:12.55.
The total number of registered competitors was 234.
1. Joe Schneiderhan, 42, Alexandria 1:02:08
21. Mark Storhaug, 49, Alexandria 1:11:34
27. Brad Lake, 41, Alexandria 1:14:00
41. Dan Roark, 31, Alexandria 1:18:58
43. Taylor Ellison, 18, Carlos 1:19:22
49. Logan Hanson, 15, Alexandria 1:20:08
64. Meghan Orgeman, 25, Glenwood 1:22:52
57. Angie Miller, 31, Alexandria 1:24:14
86. Jacquelyn Kvilhaug, 22, Alexandria 1:25.41
91. Kelly Wencl, 28, Alexandria 1:28:41
113. Laura Barrett, 31, Alexandria 1:35:32
115. Daphne Karpan, 37, Alexandria 1:35:38
118. Tim Busch, 45, Alexandria 1:37:13
125. Julie Backes, 37, Osakis 1:39:14
144. Joan Ries, 54, Alexandria 1:48.14
147. Marie Anderson, 56, Alexandria 1:49:47
1. See Dad Run (Brock Vestrum, Luke Vestrum Harley Vestrum) 1:12.:55.
2. Astrup (Cheryl Astrup, Mark Astrup, Rachel Astrup) 1:15:03.
3. Two Andrews and a Megan (Andrew Lamb, Andrew Bristow, Megan Decock) 1:21:25.
4. Super Bads (Caroline Roers, Benjamin Roers, Benjamin Roers) 1:37:55.


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Ticket sales for the fourth annual Taste of Vista on Main Street on Wednesday afternoon are brisk and the event could sell out, said Gumaro Escarcega, executive director of the Vista Village Business Association .
Twenty-five local restaurants, six Vista craft brewers and a winery have confirmed they are taking part in the event, Escarcega said.
For $20 (or $25 at the event), patrons receive tickets enabling them to taste dishes offered by all the restaurants. For $30 (or $35 at the event), patrons receive tickets that include food and beer tastings. Fifteen-dollar tickets will buy beer and wine tastes only.
Mother Earth Brew Co ., which recently opened a downtown tasting room and home-brew supply store, is the title sponsor. The event will stretch from North Indiana to Michigan avenues.
Tickets can be purchased online at www.vvba.org , or buy calling760-414-9391.


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Mediterranean Diet: The World's Healthiest Diet?
By Rachel Johnson, Ph.D, M.P.H., R.D., "The World's Healthiest Diet?," September/October 2008
Research shows that eating like a Mediterranean is good for your waist as well as your heart.
"'Eating Mediterranean' doesn't necessarily mean flavoring everything with rosemary and covering it in tomato sauce. As long as the basics are there (lots of legumes, vegetables and whole grains, limited meat, healthy fats, fish), you can...
Healthy Mediterranean Recipes
Recipes from the Mediterranean Diet
Quick Mediterranean Recipes
More Healthy Recipes & Articles
9 Healthy Foods from the Mediterranean Diet
10 Steps to Heart Health
Heart-Healthy Meal Plan
Heart-Healthy Diet Center
4. Enjoy a glass of wine with meals. Enjoy wine in moderation during meals, never drinking alone outside of the meal and never in excess. Drinking wine increases HDL (good) cholesterol, may help regulate blood sugar and can even help you digest your food and absorb its nutrients. Wines, especially reds, also deliver a dose of heart-healthy resveratrol. Take Trichopoulou's advice and use wine "to enjoy life, not to forget life!"
Can the Mediterranean Diet endure today? I think ancient food traditions will never truly go away; they've already survived for millennia. But just the thought of traditional ways under siege is enough to scare some countries into safeguarding their food heritage: Italy, Spain, Greece and Morocco recently launched an international campaign to win United Nations recognition by adding the Mediterranean Diet to its World Heritage List, and give it protected status just like historic sites.
In the meantime, I'm working on putting Dr. Trichopoulou's advice into practice in my everyday life. Olive oil for dipping has become a staple on our dinner table and we regularly enjoy meatless meals along with our nightly glass of red wine. Mark and I are happily returning to Italy this fall with a plan to enjoy the old ways as much as we can. Salute!
Rachel K. Johnson, EatingWell's senior nutrition advisor, is Professor of Nutrition at the University of Vermont.
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Business in Corona, CA


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The 2014 Sportster lineup, including the Superlow above, is now offered with ABS as an option as is the H-D Smart Security System, both previously unavailable on Sportsters.
There are 11 new color and two-tone options and new graphics available for the 2014 Harley Sportster lineup.
The 2014 Sportster Forty-Eight actually went down $120 in price for 2014.
While Harley's unveiling of its Project Rushmore and the announcement of its Twin Cooled TC103 stole most of the headline thunder yesterday, the 2014 Harley-Davidson Sportster also quietly received some notable changes. Among those is the addition of ABS as an option, a first for the long-standing lineup.
"Any motorcycle rider of any experience level can encounter unanticipated road conditions, or a situation that requires maximal braking performance," said Jennifer Gersch, Product Planning Manager, Outreach, in Harley PR. "When that happens, ABS technology can help the rider maintain control under braking. Even when the road is clean and the weather is perfect, riding with ABS offers an added level of security many riders appreciate."
The Sportster's braking system has been revamped altogether. At 300mm, the front rotor is now 8mm larger. The caliper on the front is reportedly 36% larger, with dual 34mm pistons compared to the 25mm units used previously. The new aluminum front master cylinder is supposed to improve efficiency. The rotor on the rear is the same size but the restyled caliper on the back brakes gets dual 38mm pistons. Braided stainless steel brake lines have been outfitted on the front and back. Anti-lock brakes are now a factory-installed option, the wheel sensors small enough so they don't clutter the look of the wheels. The system is not linked, so front and rear brakes will continue to operate independently. The ABS option sells for an additional $795.
Harley has also revamped the 2014 Sportster's electrical system. The new analog speedo and digital tach combo is connected to a Trip switch on the left handlebar that allows riders to toggle through tripmeters, an odometer, or select the new gear indicator and rpm display. H-D also updated the Sportster's wire harness and voltage regulator. It swapped out hand controls for a more ergonomic set, too.
The 2014 Sportster now has the option of being equipped with Harley's Smart Security System that has been available on other models for years. It uses a key fob to enable the alarm system and to turn the motorcycle off and on. Proximity-based, it automatically turns on the alarm once a rider walks away from the bike and out of range. The security option is available for an extra $395.
With the new models, Harley also addresses the changing face of motorcycle emission standards with a new closed-loop exhaust system. The EPA-friendly pipes combine a catalyst and mini heated oxygen sensors aimed at lowering emissions while the mufflers see the addition of new exhaust shields.
The 2014 Sportster models will be available in 11 new colors and two-tone color combos. New graphics are available, too. Prices have bumped up a couple hundred dollars on average, with the popular Iron 883 going from $7999 to $8399. The 2014 Sportster Forty-Eight, on the other hand, went the opposite direction, dropping from $10,599 in 2013 to $10,479 in 2014.
2014 Sportster Superlow MSRP $8,249 2013 Prices ($8099)
2014 Sportster Iron 883 MSRP $8,399 ($7999)
2014 1200 Custom MSRP $10,649 ($10,499)
2014 Sportster Forty-Eight MSRP $10,479 ($10,599)
2014 Sportster Seventy-Two MSRP $10,849 ($10,699)


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Dawson provides seismic data acquisition services to on-shore oil and gas explorers and other clients who need accurate precise images of the ground under our feet. The company claims over a dozen crews out roaming the lower forty eight with equipment that feeds data back to a processing center where computers spit out two or three dimensional renderings of geological formations.
Three dimensional seismic data has become a common oil and gas exploration and production tool. Such details do not remove all exploration risk, bit it improves success rates and reduces the number of wells drilled. Wells are more likely to be in optimal locations, deliver better production and exhibit slightly longer life. This leads to improved environmental stewardship.
The intelligence is much in demand by oil and gas companies keen on proving new oil or gas reserves. So keen are customers that Dawson was able to report $319.3 million in total revenue in the twelve months ending September 2012. Mind you, sales were down a pinch from the previous fiscal year, Dawson reported a handsome profit in stark contrast to losses in previous years. While the company has been on a bit of a roller coaster in terms of total sales and earnings, Dawson's track record in producing positive operating cash flow is a bit more consistent. Over the past five years, Dawson has converted 18.2% of its total sales to cash for return reinvestment or return to investors.
Dawson does not pay a dividend. What is more its cash flows have been more than sufficient to keep a pace with the company's capital budget. Cash has built up to $61.4 million or about 22% of total assets. That may sound high to some investors. However, keep in mind, unlike a manufacturing company, Dawson is principally a services company that earns its keep on its prowess in the field. It is tough to capture the value of 'knowhow' on the balance sheet.
DWSN shares are trading closer the lower end in the 52-week price range. What is more the stock is valued at 12.7 times the consensus estimate for fiscal year 2013. Granted there are only four contributions so it can only be loosely considered a consensus. Still that is well below the oil and gas services industry average. One explanation for investors' lack of enthusiasm for DWSN is the ups and downs in quarterly sales.
Over the long-term it is clear that Dawson has built up a good franchise in the oil and gas fields. It does have a notable dependence upon its customer Chesapeake Energy (CHK: NYSE) for business - 21% of fiscal year 2013 revenue. However, that dependence is on the wane as Dawson adds new customers. Also there are some competitors such as Global Geophysical Services (GGS: NYSE) and Tesla Exploration (TXL.TO). Global Geophysical might be slightly larger in terms of market share. However, its balance sheet is levered and that makes little sense for a service provider. Tesla is even less consistent in turn a profit than Dawson and its track record in cash flow generation not as impressive. The stronger balance sheet is always the trump card in competition.
The stock appears undervalued and is trading with upward momentum. Strong fundamentals and strong technicals make it seem like a double good news. However, there is a dark thread of risk running through the DWSN story. DWSN has a beta measure of near 1.90 and only trades about 100,000 shares a day. That combination typically makes it easy to get involved with a stock at a compelling price but a bit more challenging to escape for investors with short-term time horizons or fear of volatility.


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Ms. Lagarde, appointed the IMF managing director in June, is the first woman to hold the position, typically held by a European male. She'll be presiding over the IMF at a challenging time – the organization has had to bail out numerous countries in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis and may have to do so again. Lagarde also will have to figure out how to strike a balance between the Western European countries accustomed to dominating the IMF and the rising economies of South America and Asia.
Lagarde's position on the Forbes list has skyrocketed with her appointment to IMF head – in 2010, she was No. 43.


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Thursday, June 10, 1999 Published at 12:44 GMT 13:44 UK
UK Politics
Blair to make Kosovo statement
UK troops are likely to lead Nato forces into Kosovo
UK Prime Minister Tony Blair is to make a statement on the situation in Kosovo, after Nato announced it was suspending air strikes against Yugoslavia.
Nato Secretary General Javier Solana said air strikes on Yugoslavia have been suspended after confirming President Slobodan Milosevic had complied with Nato's five demands for ending the conflict.
Mr Blair is expected to make his statement around 1500 BST from Downing Street.
A full withdrawal of Yugoslav troops has already begun from Kosovo.
"We are very keen that the moment the Serb forces are withdrawing from the sector opposite us across the border in Macedonia that we start to move in.
"The reason for that we don't want a security vacuum.
"We want our forces to go in there to secure the peace, secure the territory and start to create the conditions in which the refugees can go back so that there is no gap between one force leaving and one force going in."
The possibility of a Nato military campaign against Serbia would remain until the last of the troops had left Kosovo, he warned.
Mr Cook said Nato would be alert for any "trick" President Milosevic could pull, but said the Serb leader was now in a much weaker position.
He said: "I believe Nato is on the way to accomplishing a great deed.
"The alliance has been prepared to go out of its way to fight for a downtrodden people against a campaign of ethnic hatred and it has won, and that, I think, is something we can all be proud of at the end of what has been a dark and difficult 20th century.
"This is a victory for the determination and resolve of the alliance to face down the kind of ethnic violence which has marred our century."
Nato had endured and prevailed, he continued.
"I hope Kosovo will send a stark message to those who see repression and ethnic violence as the acceptable tools of power that once the west has set its hand to action it does not stop until it has succeeded."
He paid tribute to the armed forces "who were prepared to risk their lives so other could live in peace".
But for General Jackson and his forces the difficult days were just beginning, said Mr Robertson.
They would encounter attacks by "wayward individuals", minefields and cope with the "tide of human misery and starvation left behind by the Serbs".
Mr Robertson said: "I fear they will find evidence of atrocities which will shock and sicken even them."
UK Politics Contents
A-Z of Parliament
Talking Politics
Vote 2001


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Thursday, June 12, 2014 - 4:00pm to 4:45pm
A program for children ages 3 - 5 years and an accompanying adult which features stories and a Father's Day craft. Registration is required for Woodbridge Township residents beginning May 29 at the Henry Inman Library or by calling 732-726-7072, ext. 7210.


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JERUSALEM, March 17 (UPI) -- Revisionist archaeology, faith, tradition and politics intersect in this City of David, which intoxicates with its measureless historical and cultural treasures.
Does the visitor want his preconceptions confirmed, his faith deepened? Guides will tell you what they think you want to hear. This is still the Middle East, after all.
Does he want provisional conclusions informed by the best scholarship? They are available, but will require greater effort. Like politicians, guides tend to answer questions for which they are prepared -- not the ones asked.
These two ways of seeing Jerusalem apply to matters pertaining to both the Old and New Testaments, and no less than to our perception of King David himself.
Tradition and scripture have it that in about 1000 B.C. David reunited the north (Israel) and the south (Judah) and was anointed king at Hebron. Then he captured this "fortress of Zion" from the Jebusites and made the citadel his capital. David's son Solomon consolidated the kingdom and built a fabulous temple from materials imported from far and wide.
Respectable sources and exhibits at such places as the marvelous Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem give this version of events. The trouble is, archaeology does not support it.
David Lazare summarizes the revisionist argument in the March issue of Harper's magazine. In "False Testament" he writes: "Archaeologists believe that David was not a mighty potentate whose power was felt from the Nile to the Euphrates but rather a freebooter who carved out what was at most a small duchy in the southern highlands around Jerusalem and Hebron. Indeed, the chief disagreement among scholars nowadays is between those who hold that David was a petty hilltop chieftain ... and a small but vociferous band of 'biblical minimalists' who maintain that he never existed at all."
As for Solomon, the master builder and insatiable accumulator of exotic treasures, "not one goblet, not one brick, has ever been found to indicate that such a reign existed."
Ambiguity also surrounds the most important Christian sites -- those of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. The controversy begins with Helena. She was the mother of Constantine, the Roman emperor who made Christianity the state religion. In 326 A.D. she traveled to Jerusalem and was shown the adjacent spots purported to be where Jesus was executed and entombed.
Today the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, which some consider the most sacred house of Christian worship, stands above these sites in Jerusalem's Old City. By tradition, Roman and Orthodox Catholics hold the sites to be authentic.
But Helena was not an archaeologist, a historian or even (as far as we know) a particularly erudite reader of scripture. The place of execution was outside the walls. Although some scholars believe the site of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher to have been just outside the Herodian city, others disagree. The "tomb" within the ornate church seems contrived. It just doesn't feel right.
Where was Golgotha, the place of the skull? Did it get its name from its topographic appearance or from the grisly remains one might find on an execution site? We still don't know for sure.
However, most Protestants favor an area north of the Damascus Gate in Arab east Jerusalem as the probable location of Jesus' crucifixion (now a bus station) and resurrection (a tranquil nearby garden tomb).
In 1867 a Greek man who owned the land dug into rubble hoping to find a water cistern. He discovered a hole full of human bones and skulls. In 1874 German archaeologist Conrad Schick reported the excavation of a tomb hewn from rock that fit the description of the one in which Joseph of Arimathia laid Jesus to rest (Matthew 27:57-60).
In 1883 an outcropping of rock nearby caught the attention of the celebrated British general and Bible student Charles "Chinese" Gordon as he looked from a friend's house on the city wall. When the sun hits natural indentations on the side of the cliff at certain angles, it resembles a skull
The area was part of an ancient quarry. According to tradition, the Jews used it as a place of execution by stoning and the Romans used it as a crucifixion site. Christian lore places Jesus' crucifixion on a hilltop, but Quintilian wrote in the 1st century that the Romans crucified criminals near busy thoroughfares as a warning to others. This spot, at the base of the skull cliff, would have been near roads that led to Jericho and Damascus. The Bible does not mention a hilltop.
After Gordon met his death in Khartoum, interested Christians in Britain raised 2,000 pounds sterling through a newspaper ad to buy the land adjacent to the quarry and maintain it. The ancient garden, believed to be the one mentioned in John (19:41) as the place of burial, has been excavated and restored. A huge water cistern and an ancient wine press were discovered.
Some picture the tomb of Jesus as a natural cave, but the Gospels specify a vault hollowed out of rock. This is the nature of the Garden Tomb, a place that evokes reverence if not piety.
Natural forces and human hands have enlarged the portal over two millennia, but one still must bend down to enter, as St. Peter and Mary Magdalene crouched to enter this or another similar tomb, which is divided into two chambers. On the left is the "weeping room," large enough for several mourners to stand in. On the right are two burial places - stone "beds" for bodies. The one closer to the entrance is unfinished.
(Some think the "foot" area of the finished "bed" shows signs of having been hastily enlarged, an indication that Jesus was taller than Joseph of Arimathia, a wealthy member of the Sanhedrin who was a secret disciple of Jesus and who gave up his own tomb for him.)
Skeptics say this tomb dates from some 700 years before Jesus' time, but if so why was the second burial platform left unfinished?
The groove in front of the entrance appears to have been cut as a track for a large round stone, since lost, that was rolled to open and close the vault.
The Garden Tomb (Jerusalem) Association of England maintains the lovely and peaceful setting by the voluntary contributions of visitors. No admission is charged. But the hours of operation and the number of tours have been scaled back because terrorist attacks have drastically curtailed tourism to Israel.
On the day of the present visit, one was able to look down from the serene garden to witness the clamorous demolition of the Arab bus station to make way for a new facility. Crucifixion crossroads, if such was the place, is still a busy spot.
(This is one in a series of stories written on a trip hosted by Israel's Ministry of Tourism.)


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GAINESVILLE - The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Beautification Committee's Business Awards of Excellence promote attractive and well-maintained areas by publicly recognizing those who have made beautification efforts to property.
Winners of the fall award include the new Gainesville Pedestrian Bridge, connecting the Brenau Downtown Center and Midtown Gainesville and BatesCarter, an accounting firm founded in 1962 and located at 525 Candler Street in Gainesville.
Bates, Carter & Co., LLP is located in the site of the former Candler Street Elementary School. The school opened in 1911 and closed in 1978. Scheduled for destruction, the building was purchased in 1981, renovated and reopened in 1982 as BatesCarter and Don Carter Realty offices. It is also listed in the national register of Historic places.
The Chamber initiated the beautification program 19 years ago and various businesses have received the award, including most recently Kipper Tool Company and First Baptist Church in 2012.
"The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize businesses and organizations that beautify their properties," said Greater Hall Chamber President/CEO Kit Dunlap. "The Business Beautification Awards send a message to all saying


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A second San Diego City Councilmember has now become an official candidate for mayor.
On Monday, David Alvarez also became the fourth "name" Democrat to announce, or file "notice of intent," to run.
Almost three years into his freshman term, Alvarez has built a populist brand advocating for "under-served" neighborhoods over "well-connected" businesses.
He said he wants to change a lot of fortunes.
"I'm running for mayor because I believe that San Diego is bigger than any one special interest," Alvarez told reporters at a noon-hour news conference in Presidio Park-- site of San Diego's first Spanish settlement and the place where his family would celebrate Easter every year.
"We don't need any more slick politicians, we need trusted public servants," Alvarez said. ""The city has neglected the needs of neighborhoods and vital infrastructure and has focused instead on giving taxpayer dollars, subsidies, to a few special interests. The city has been best by corruption, conflict and scandal."
Among dozens of sign-bearing campaign volunteers who formed a backdrop for Alvarez was Anabel Salcedo, who pronounced herself "super-excited" to take part of in Alvarez's Nov. 19 special election bid.
"He's very sincere. He holds the values that I grew up with as a child," Salcedo said in a post-conference interview. "I'm a mother of three; I grew up in San Ysidro. I would love to see a mayor like David Alvarez who came from a community like I did…a progressive mayor who's going to be good for the future of my children and for the future of San Diego."
Alvarez – endorsed by the region's influential Labor Council -- represents San Diego's 8th District, comprising the city's near-downtown and southernmost neighborhoods, stretching from Barrio Logan to the border-area communities of San Ysidro and Otay Mesa.
His background as a child of poverty has inspired an approach to public service that'll be reflected in progressive, grassroots campaign themes.
"We are the residents who want to have a voice in the planning decisions affecting all of our neighborhoods," Alvarez said in announcing his candidacy. "We are the bicyclists and pedestrians who are tired of the cracked sidewalks, or just missing sidewalks, the bad roads, broken roads and snarled traffic."
Alvarez chairs the Council's Natural Resources & Culture Committee, which has taken up issues such as water supplies and climate change.
And while he was a close ally of former Mayor Bob Filner, buying into many of his initiatives, Alvarez was quick to call for the mayor's resignation once word of Filner's sexual harassment scandal broke.
Political observers say that with three other prominent Democrats -- each of whom has held elected office -- in the increasingly crowded race (which includes the GOP's Alpha-Dog Republican, Kevin Faulconer), Alvarez has to build a major campaign structure quickly to make a two-way runoff.
"If he succeeds in that, I think he has a real shot at becoming the Number Two in there," said Scott Lewis, CEO and columnist for Voice of San Diego. "The problem is that a lot of his natural constituency might be within (Democrat) Lori Saldana's camp or Mike Aguirre's' camp, if not in Nathan Fletcher's camp. And so to get to the second spot is going to be a really tough fight."
Added political strategist Johh Dadian: "If you go with the maxim that there's definitely going to be a runoff, then I think it's good you have more Democrats in it because that shows who the strongest Democrat is…clearly, as it gets very close to the election, it's going to get pretty rough. All campaigns do. People say they don't like negative campaigning, but political consultants use it because it works."
Right now, 29 names are on file with the City Clerk's office as "potential candidates" in the race.
The largest number of candidates ever to qualify for a mayoral ballot in San Diego was 20, in the 1983 special primary election.
On Friday, the 'potentials' can start submitting petition signatures from at least 200 city voters, registered for a minimum of 30 days prior to signing.
And, pay a $500 filing fee-- or submit 2,000 more signatures instead.
Those requirements tend to weed out all but the most avid and determined 'wanna-be' mayors.


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Used Truck - 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 GLK350 in Kingston, Ma
Actual costs may vary.
4MATIC, Fog Lamps, Roof Racks, Alloy Wheels. So few miles means it's like new. Gently used. Be the talk of the town when you roll down the street in this stunning 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class,NAVIGATION ,LEATHER ,PANO ROOF*Clean Carfax ONE OWNER vehicle*, 128 point safety check passed, fully re-conditioned to showroom quality.In this quiet SUV, road noise is a thing of the past. 3.5 liter V6 DOHC engine, 302 hp horsepower, 4 Doors, 4-wheel ABS brakes, 8-way power adjustable drivers seat, Air conditioning with dual zone climate control, All-wheel drive, Audio controls on steering wheel, Automatic Transmission, Bluetooth, Clock - In-dash, External temperature display, Front fog/driving lights, Fuel economy EPA highway (mpg): 24 and EPA city (mpg): 19, Head airbags - Curtain 1st and 2nd row, Heated Windshield Washer Jets - Jets and reservoir, Interior air filtration, Knee airbags - Driver, Memory settings for 3 drivers, Multi-function remote - Trunk/hatch/door/tailgate windows, Passenger Airbag, Power heated mirrors, Power retractable mirrors, Power windows with 4 one-touch, Rear fog lights, Rear wiper, Remote power door locks, Remote window operation, Residual heat distribution, Reverse tilt mirrors - Passenger mirror, Signal mirrors - Turn signal in mirrors, Speed-proportional power steering, Stability control, Tachometer, Tilt and telescopic steering wheel, Traction control - ABS and driveline, Transmission hill holder, Trip computer, Video Monitor Location - Front
Major Accidents, Lemon History and Odometer Problems
» View The FREE CARFAX History Report
2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 ReviewThis car review is specific to this model, not the actual vehicle for sale.
Fresh looks, new engines, improved interior.
The Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class has been thoroughly revised for the 2013 model year. The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 and the new GLK250 BlueTEC feature fresh styling and redesigned cabins with the latest technology, and each boasts new engines.
The 2013 GLK350 comes with a redesigned 3.5-liter V6 engine with the latest-generation direct fuel injection (which replaces the conventional port injection). Engine output increases by 34 horsepower and torque by 15 pound-feet. EPA fuel economy ratings have been improved with the addition of a start/stop function that shuts the engine off when the car is stopped.
The 3.5-liter V6 in the 2013 GLK350 is rated at 268 horsepower at 6000 rpm, 258 pound-feet of torque from 2000-5000 rpm. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency rates the 2013 GLK350 at 16/22 miles per gallon City/Highway. Premium unleaded gasoline is required. Rear-wheel drive (2WD) is standard, 4MATIC all-wheel drive is optional.
We found the new GLK350 delightful to drive. It's quick, capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in just 6.4 seconds, which is impressive performance, and we found it stable at 95 miles per hour. Handling is crisp and responsive on winding roads, while on the highway it's quiet and comfortable. We felt no fatigue in five hours of driving.
The 2013 GLK250 BlueTEC is a new model that features a four-cylinder diesel engine designed to meet strict Bin 5 U.S. emissions regulations. The 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel is rated 190 hp at 4200 rpm, 369 lb-ft of torque from 1600-1800 rpm. The GLK250 comes standard with 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The GLK250 BlueTEC is expected to go on sale in early 2013, and pricing and fuel economy ratings will be available then.
The 2013 GLK-Class are good-looking SUVs. The revised styling presents a more athletic appearance than before. Its lines are more angular, intended to share the design language of the new 2013 GL-Class full-size SUV. The new styling doesn't attract much attention and people don't seem to see it as a new design, but it's a handsome mid-cycle update and owners will likely not tire of looking at it.
Inside is a more attractive, more functional cabin than what's found in pre-2013 models. The new dash looks more elegant, more upscale than before. Big round air vents have been modernized and are easy to aim. New connectivity features have been designed with the goal of helping us simplify our lives. We found the standard vinyl upholstery nice, it was hard to tell it wasn't leather. The driver's seat was comfortable. The rear seats were comfortable for two adults, and a nicely trimmed cargo compartment opens up to a nearly flat space when the rear seatbacks are flipped down.
The Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class competes primarily with the BMW X3 and Acura RDX (all-new for 2013).
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class comes in two versions: GLK350 with 3.5-liter V6 ($37,090) and GLK250 BlueTEC with 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel (early 2013). GLK350 comes with a choice of rear-wheel drive (2WD) or 4MATIC all-wheel drive ($39,090). GLK250 BlueTEC comes standard with 4MATIC. All GLK-Class come with a 7-speed automatic transmission.
The 2013 GLK-Class comes with dual-zone automatic climate control with dust filter, MB-Tex upholstery, eight-way power adjustable front seats, Burl Walnut Wood Trim, central controller with 5.8-inch color display, 4.5-inch color instrument cluster display, trip computer, three-spoke multifunction premium leather steering wheel with shift paddles, tilt and telescoping steering column, cruise control, automatic headlamps with twilight sensor and locator lighting, intermittent wipers, rear-window intermittent wiper and washer, 6-speaker sound system with auxiliary input, single CD player with MP3 capability, AM/FM radio with weather band, Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling, folding second row seat, rear cargo cover, roof rails, exterior chrome accents and chrome load sill plate, power windows with express up and down, privacy glass, front and rear cupholders.
Options: Full Leather Seating Package ($2,100) upgrades to full leather seating, leather-trimmed door panels, front passenger-seat memory, comfort headrests, interior ambient lighting. Premium 1 Package ($3,450) includes Panorama sunroof, power liftgate, driver memory for power seat settings, four-way lumbar support for driver's seat, power tilt/telescope steering column, with four-way iPod/MP3 interface, Sirius XM Satellite Radio, 115-volt AC outlet in cargo area, integrated garage door opener, compass in rearview mirror. A Lighting Package ($1,290) includes a headlight cleaning system, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, bi-xenon headlights with active curve illumination. An Appearance Package ($990) substitutes 20-inch wheels and aluminum roof rails. The AMG Styling Package ($1,990) features AMG body styling, AMG LED daytime running lamps, aluminum roof rails, 20-inch AMG alloy wheels. We recommend getting the Driver Assistance Package ($2,950) with Distronic Plus and Pre-Safe Brake, Brake Assist Plus, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist. Standalone options include heated front seats ($750); Keyless Go ($650); harman/kardon premium audio ($810); Parktronic with Active Park Assist ($970); trailer hitch ($550); brushed aluminum running boards with rubber studs ($670); special 19-inch wheels; pre-wiring for a rear-seat entertainment system; and some of the features included in the packages. (All prices are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices, which do not include $875 destination charge and may change at any time without notice.)
Safety features include dual-stage driver and front-passenger airbags, driver and passenger side-impact airbags, driver and passenger pelvic airbags, window curtain airbags for front and rear, driver kneebag, active front head restraints, rear-door child safety locks, LATCH system, top tether anchors for child seats, Attention Assist, mbrace2, adaptive brakes with Hold feature, brake drying, Hill Start Assist, precharging, ABS, Electronic Stability Program with Trailer Stability Assist, Brake Assist, and the federally mandated tire pressure monitor.
The optional rearview camera can help a driver spot a small child behind the car when backing up, a feature we highly recommend getting. Optional Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist can help the driver avoid an accident. Optional Distronic Plus with Pre-Safe Brake and Brake Assist Plus can help the driver lessen the severity of a crash. Available 4MATIC all-wheel drive electronic traction system can improve handling stability in slippery conditions.
The Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class was restyled for 2013. Key dimensions, including overall length, width, height, and wheelbase and track are unchanged from 2011, however.
Bolder bumpers, new headlights, and a new grille highlight the changes for 2013. The crisp lines of the 2013 GLK-Class parrot some of the design features of the all-new 2013 GL-Class full-size SUV, including the sharp crease along the sides of the hood. The new exterior design freshens the looks of the 2013 GLK-Class and it's quite handsome, though it may not attract as much attention as does the new M-Class (all-new for 2012) or the new GL-Class (all-new for 2013). Some observers have tried to link the GLK-Class to the boxy G-Class Gelandewagen off-road SUV, but we can't see it.
The GLK-Class looks like a Mercedes-Benz and there's no mistaking it for anything but a Mercedes-Benz, even if the big three-pointed star in the center of the grille was removed. The shape of the grille and headlights, the upright and angular lines all say Mercedes-Benz.
Measuring 178.3 inches in overall length (14.8 feet), the GLK-Class is four inches shorter than the BMW X3, five inches shorter than the all-new 2013 Acura RDX. The BMW X3 and Acura RDX are its primary competition. The Lexus RX is significantly larger, the Range Rover Evoque is significantly smaller, the Land Rover LR2 and Infiniti EX are dated designs, and the Audi Q3 is not available in the U.S. The GLK-Class is nearly 11 inches shorter than the M-Class sport-utility.
The GLK-Class rides on a 108.5-inch wheelbase, which is three inches longer than that of the Acura RDX, two inches shorter than that of the BMW X3. Wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear wheels, and a longer wheelbase tends to allow a smoother ride and greater high-speed stability than a shorter wheelbase. In terms of width and height, the GLK-Class is comparable to the X3 and RDX.
The GLK350 4MATIC weighs 4,079 pounds, which is significantly lighter than the 4,222-pound BMW X3 Xdrive35i. The 2013 RDX AWD is the lightest of the three at 3,852 pounds. GLK350 weighs 4,012 pounds with rear-wheel drive, so 4MATIC is not costly in terms of weight.
Sharing its unit-body chassis with the C-Class compact sedan, the GLK-Class is a crossover SUV. Its four-wheel independent suspension with McPherson struts in front and a multi-link arrangement in the rear is the stuff of cars, and it's perfectly suited to the GLK-Class.
An AMG appearance package is available featuring special exterior trim. We're not sure the AMG trim improves the appearance, however. Also, the sporty-looking mini running boards with rubber nubs serve to dirty pants legs more than aid stepping in and out; we recommend them only for drivers of the smallest stature.
The interior of the GLK-Class is dramatically improved for the 2013 model year. The dash looks more elegant than that of the pre-2013 GLK-Class, handsome burl walnut wood trim sweeping across its width in place of the previous modular appearance. Big round vents replace the previous square vents, and the new ones are easy to aim and control.
The standard MB-Tex upholstery looks more like leather than vinyl and we were perfectly happy with it. The MB-Tex comes in black, almond/beige, or gray. The optional leather is very nice and comes in black, mocha, and almond.
The front seats are comfortable and supportive. We spent five hours in them in one day, and 90 minutes or so the day before and the day after, and we never tired of them.
The back seats are comfortable for two adults but not three. The GLK-Class seats up to five but it's better with four.
The interior materials are attractive, with double-stitching on some of the trim and flashes of aluminum that give it an upscale feel. The steering wheel feels and looks great. Burl walnut wood trim comes standard and it looks good, though there's a bit too much of it front of the passenger for our taste. From a more practical standpoint, we wonder whether the rolltop lid that covers the center console compartment will become a gathering place for crumbs and dust, though the seams on this one are impressively tight. The HVAC controls are at the bottom of the center stack and they seem way down there visually while driving.
The GLK-Class is loaded with technology, including mbrace2 connectivity, which is intended to simplify our lives. One of many features it offers is notification to your smartphone while you're dining should a shady valet take your car for a joy ride.
The navigation system worked well, once we became familiar with it. Its mapping fell short in rural and remote areas, however, telling us we were in uncharted territory.
The cargo compartment is trimmed nicely and the rear seats fold down almost perfectly flat. The rear seats are split 60/40 for flexibility with cargo and passengers.
The power liftgate (optional) can be opened by waving your foot under the rear bumper, a nice feature when carrying an armload of groceries. A 115-volt AC outlet delivers house current to the cargo area, a useful feature for charging laptops, powering hand tools or running accessories when camping or tailgating.
Driving Impression
We've driven GLK350 and GLK350 4MATIC versions and found them to be delightful whether on winding roads and on open highways. These cars are easy to drive, smooth but well-controlled, not floaty like a Lexus RX. They are very stable at high speeds. Our co-driver felt sufficiently comfortable to cruise at 95 mph on a winding Interstate through West Virginia while carrying on a conversation.
Handling is very responsive: It feels like driving a sedan with a slightly higher seating position. We had no issues with the feel or responsiveness of the electromechanical steering, an emerging technology intended to improve fuel economy, among other things. We found the brakes easy to modulate for smooth, precise stops. Wind and road noise are well muted.
The GLK350 delivers plenty of power, and arguably leads the class in terms of acceleration performance. The GLK350 4MATIC can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.4 seconds, according to Mercedes-Benz North America, which is quite quick. The GLK350 comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine rated at 302 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 273 pound-feet of torque at 3500-5250 rpm. By comparison, the 2013 Acura RDX with its 3.5-liter V6 makes just 273 horsepower at 6100 rpm and 251 pound-feet of torque at a 5000 rpm. The comparably priced BMW X3 xDrive28i with its inline-6 rates 240 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, while the significantly more expensive, turbocharged X3 xDrive35i delivers 300 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 300 pound-feet of torque at 1300-5000 rpm.
Fuel economy for the GLK350 2WD is an EPA-estimated 16/23 mpg City/Highway (or 18 miles per gallon for the EPA Combined rating). GLK350 4MATIC is rated 16/21 mpg (or 18 mpg in the EPA Combined rating). Those numbers are poor by the standards of the class. By comparison, the 2013 Acura RDX AWD gets an EPA-estimated 19/27 mpg, while the BMW X3 is EPA-rated at 19/26 mpg. Premium gasoline is recommended for the GLK350. Also, a Start/Stop feature is included that shuts off the engine when stopped (e.g., at intersections), then quickly restarts the engine when the accelerator is depressed.
The 7-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive. We felt no need to use the semi-manual shifting features. We put it in Drive and it shifted up and down smoothly and correctly on winding roads peppered with elevation changes.
The GLK250 4MATIC can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds, which is average performance, neither particularly quick nor particularly slow. Fuel economy estimates were not available when we went to press. The GLK250 BlueTEC is rated at 190 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 369 pound-feet of torque at 1600-1800 rpm. That torque figure is very impressive, suggesting the GLK250 will feel very responsive around town. The GLK250 uses the same 7-speed automatic with the same gear ratios as the GLK350.
4MATIC all-wheel drive improves traction and stability in slippery conditions. We recommend getting 4MATIC, particularly for drivers who face snow and ice but it's beneficial on wet pavement or on unpaved roads. The all-wheel drive could pay off in just one critical moment for folks in the sunshine states and it will likely make the car more attractive when trading in or selling. The driver need do nothing to invoke 4MATIC; it's on all the time, ready to step in and send power to the front tires whenever the rear tires lose traction. While driving on dry roads, we could not discern an appreciable difference between a GLK350 with rear-wheel drive and one with 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Fuel economy is about the same around town with 4MATIC all-wheel drive, but it does reduce mileage on the highway a bit.
Several tire and wheel sizes are available. We couldn't tell much difference on the road in ride quality, feel or handling between the 19-inch and 20-inch sizes. Clearly, the engineers did a great job with suspension tuning and tire choices.
A number of safety features come standard or optional on the GLK-Class. Attention Assist can alert a drowsy driver with an audible alert and a warning message on the dash and a coffee cup icon in the instrument cluster. It's a good feature, though the cars we drove always seemed to be displaying the coffee cup icon. Blind Spot Assist warns the driver another vehicle is alongside whenever the turn signals are used; Active Blind Spot Assist actually corrects the driver's input if he or she tries to steer a car in the adjoining lane. Lane Keeping Assist vibrates the steering wheel when the driver drifts out of his or her lane. Active Lane Keeping Assist adds an intervention feature, correcting the car's course if the driver doesn't heed the initial warning.
Parktronic is a useful option when parking, displaying the proximity of obstacles on the screen with a bar graph that shows the closeness of objects the way a weather map shows the intensity of storms; the system also delivers audible warnings when you get close to stuff. Active Parking Assist will steer the car for you as you parallel park; the driver just works the gas and brakes. The best parking aid is the rearview camera that comes with the navigation system in the MultiMedia Package because it can help the driver spot a small child behind the car when backing up.
Restyled outside and inside, the 2013 GLK-Class is a refined vehicle that's practical and easy to use. It's comfortable for four and can haul a load of cargo. It's stable at high speeds, agile on winding roads, it rides smoothly. The GLK350 delivers strong power, though fuel economy is poor for the class. The GLK350 4MATIC retails for less than $40,000 but popular options push the price into the low 50 thousands.
NewCarTestDrive.com editor Mitch McCullough filed this report after his test drive of GLK350 and GLK350 4MATIC models around the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, West Virginia and North Carolina.
Model Lineup
Mercedes-Benz GLK350, GLK350 4MATIC; GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC.
Assembled In
Bremen, Germany.
Options As Tested
Premium 1 Package ($3,450) includes autodimming mirrors, driver memory, 4-way driver lumbar support, power tilt/telescoping steering column, power liftgate, iPod/MP3 Media Interface, Sirius XM Satellite Radio, Panorama sunroof, 115V AC power outlet, integrated garage door opener, compass in rearview mirror; Leather Package ($2,100) includes full leather seating, front passenger seat memory, Comfort headrests, Interior Ambient Lighting; Multimedia Package ($2,790) includes rearview camera, enhanced voice control, COMAND system with hard-drive navigation; Sports Appearance Package ($990) includes 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, brushed aluminum roof rails; Driver Assistance Package ($2,950) includes DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE Brake, Brake Assist Plus, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist; heated front seats ($750); trailer hitch ($550).
Model Tested
Mercedes-Benz GLK350 4MATIC ($39,090).The Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class is a strong entry in the small premium SUV segment. It features a well-defined exterior and a stylish interior, focusing on passenger safety and comfort. The GLK has been updated for 2013 with a restyled exterior and updated equipment. New for 2013 is a GLK250 BlueTEC model with a 2.1 liter turbodiesel engine. A new 3.5-liter V6 engine with an ECO stop/start function is standard equipment on the GLK350. The GLK consists of three models, a rear-wheel drive GLK350 and the all-wheel drive GLK350 and GLK250 4MATIC. The drivetrain consists of either a 302-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine or a 200-hp 2.1-liter 4-cylinder turbodiesel. Both engines are matched with a seven-speed automatic transmission. All versions of the GLK are equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, cruise control, 8-way power front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Standard safety features include electronic stability control, electronic traction control, brake assist, active front head restraints, as well as front, side, and side curtain airbags. Also standard are driver and passenger pelvic airbags, and a driver knee airbag. Available features include a panorama sunroof, a harman/kardon sound system, and a hard-drive navigation system. The GLK-Class is refreshed and updated for 2013 and adds the new GLK250 turbodiesel.
5 Cranberry Rd
Kingston, Ma. 02364
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Feed-in tariff and tradable green certificate in oligopoly
Feed-in tariff (FIT) and tradable green certificate (TGC) schemes are studied in a formal model and numerical example using the UK data. We find that if the markets were perfectly competitive, then feed-in tariff and the certificate price would be the same. However, when the markets are imperfect, they are generally different. While both the tariff and certificate price fluctuate around the difference between the costs of green and black energy, the tariff deviates more from the cost difference than the certificate price. The supplies of both black and green energy under FIT are higher than TGC, obviously as a result of subsidies. A troubling outcome is that the total energy supply increases under FIT as the renewables quota increases, which can negate other measures to mitigate climate changes such as demand management. Finally, using the data from the UK market, we find that social welfare under TGC is consistently higher than FIT for a wide range of values of the parameters.
If you experience problems downloading a file, check if you have the proper application to view it first. In case of further problems read the IDEAS help page. Note that these files are not on the IDEAS site. Please be patient as the files may be large.
As the access to this document is restricted, you may want to look for a different version under "Related research" (further below) or search for a different version of it.
Volume (Year): 38 (2010)
Issue (Month): 8 (August)
Pages: 4040-4047
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References listed on IDEAS
Please report citation or reference errors to , or , if you are the registered author of the cited work, log in to your RePEc Author Service profile, click on "citations" and make appropriate adjustments.:
- Fristrup, Peter, 2003. "Some challenges related to introducing tradable green certificates," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 31(1), pages 15-19, January.
- Morthorst, P. E., 2003. "A green certificate market combined with a liberalised power market," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 31(13), pages 1393-1402, October.
- Klessmann, Corinna & Nabe, Christian & Burges, Karsten, 2008. "Pros and cons of exposing renewables to electricity market risks--A comparison of the market integration approaches in Germany, Spain, and the UK," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 36(10), pages 3646-3661, October.
- Desiderio Romero-Jordán & José Félix Sanz-Sanz, 2009. "Energy Taxes and Household Compliance with the Kyoto Protocol," Public Finance Review, , vol. 37(2), pages 142-169, March.
- Kennedy Peter W., 1994. "Equilibrium Pollution Taxes in Open Economies with Imperfect Competition," Journal of Environmental Economics and Management, Elsevier, vol. 27(1), pages 49-63, July.
- Morthorst, P. E., 2003. "National environmental targets and international emission reduction instruments," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 31(1), pages 73-83, January.
- Amundsen, Eirik S. & Mortensen, Jorgen Birk, 2001. "The Danish Green Certificate System: some simple analytical results," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 23(5), pages 489-509, September.
- David M. Newbery, 1998.
"Competition, Contracts, and Entry in the Electricity Spot Market,"
RAND Journal of Economics,
The RAND Corporation, vol. 29(4), pages 726-749, Winter.
- Newbery, D. M., 1997. "Competition, Contracts and Entry in the Electricity Spot Market," Cambridge Working Papers in Economics 9707, Faculty of Economics, University of Cambridge.
- Amundsen, E.S. & Mortensen, J.B., 2001. "The Danish Green Certificate System: Some Simple Analytical Results," Norway; Department of Economics, University of Bergen 226, Department of Economics, University of Bergen.
- Dinica, Valentina & Arentsen, Maarten J., 2003. "Green certificate trading in the Netherlands in the prospect of the European electricity market," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 31(7), pages 609-620, June.
- Zhou, Huizhong & Tamas, Meszaros Matyas, 2010. "Impacts of integration of production of black and green energy," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 32(1), pages 220-226, January.
- Kosugi, Takanobu & Tokimatsu, Koji & Kurosawa, Atsushi & Itsubo, Norihiro & Yagita, Hiroshi & Sakagami, Masaji, 2009. "Internalization of the external costs of global environmental damage in an integrated assessment model," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 37(7), pages 2664-2678, July. Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)


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Kenny Philpott won every high jump event his last two years at Mancos High School.
Except one.
That one runner-up finish came as a junior at the 2011 Colorado High School Activities Association, track and field state championships.
Being a senior in 2012, Philpott was determined to take gold.
Winning state is something I always wanted to do, he said.
The key to winning a 2A state championship was remaining consistent. Philpott high jumped to a school and personal record of 6 feet, 6 inches multiple times this season and stayed around a height of 6-5 most of the year. Philpott even battled a sore knee at times to hold his No. 1 ranking the whole season, until state.
Chandler Dohe of Limon leaped 6-6 a week before state to tie Philpott atop the 2A standings.
No problem.
I look for consistency. That kid had jumped 6-2 all year. Ive been jumping 6-5, 6-6 all year, Philpott said. Im really consistent. He wasnt as consistent as I was. It didnt really phase me that much.
What did challenge Philpott was the elements of weather. The first two days at Jefferson County Stadium in Lakewood were sunny and warm. Come time to jump Saturday morning? It was rainy, windy and cold.
Again, no problem.
Philpott was able to still jump 6-4 in the rain. Other athletes heights continued to drop like the rain Saturday. Chris Epps of Peyton jumped 6-3 for second-place.
It was Philpotts height that earned him a much coveted state championship.
It was definitely something. I wish the weather would have been better to jump higher, Philpott said. Being up on that podium when they call your name, it was a good feeling.
Dohe finished third-place at 6-2.
Bluejays coach Alan Mathews couldnt be prouder of his four-year star, but he wasnt surprised with the result.
I think Kenny had the ability all season to be a state champ. He worked diligently toward that goal, Mathews said. He had to battle the weather elements. It shows the heart of a true champion. Hes only lost one time in two years. Thats a pretty big feather under his cap also.
Philpott and his fellow seniors hopped on the bus and trekked home Saturday, and they graduated from MHS on Sunday.
Come August, Philpott will be at practice again doing the high jump. But the 18-year-old will be in Golden at Colorado School of Mines.
Philpott committed in April to a track and field scholarship for the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, NCAA Division II Orediggers.
Mines coach Art Siemers got to see his incoming athlete in action Saturday.
Philpott definitely didnt disappoint.
I had been focused. I was completely focused towards that, he said about winning state. I had the Mines track coaches up there watching me. I tried to make the most of it.
Philpott will start practice in August to prepare for the indoor track season in the winter. The season shifts outdoors for the spring.
Were definitely proud of him. I think its really the beginning for Kenny, Mathews said. When he gets to college, hell keep climbing the ladder and do great things at School of Mines.
When Philpott climbed to 6-6 for the first time, Mathews made a phone call to Siemers.
The rest is history.
The next day after I jumped 6-6, my coach said: I can call the coach of Mines. I know him, Philpott said. A couple days later, I got a call (from Siemers). Its going to be fun. Hopefully, I can become a really good high jumper in college.
The civil engineering major has Olympic size goals beyond college.
It all depends on how I do in college. If I get to that point if Im that good then probably, said Philpott of possibly training for the Olympics.
Ultimately, the most important part of attending School of Mines is education. The Golden school is one of the nations top engineering institutions of higher learning.
Philpott will be covered academically, too. He received a full-ride Daniels Fund Scholarship that will cover nearly $120,000 in expenses over four years.
Philpott, who is the son of Jennifer Hanson, thanks his coaches and teammates for his time at Mancos.
The coaches, they always helped you out, and it was a great bunch of kids, he said. Im going to miss them.
Mathews feels fortunate to have coached Philpott.
Hes been part of our program since middle school. We knew he was a good athlete, a good high jumper, the coach said about Philpott. Each season, he just kept getting better and better. When he was a junior, we knew he would be special. He matured a lot as a person and never complained. He just did what the staff asked of him. He showed a lot of growth as a person.
Reach Bobby Abplanalp at email@example.com.


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MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — A Twin Cities family says it'll take a miracle for their son to survive a devastating blow to the head.
Thirty-one-year-old Scott Bazille was punched early Sunday morning when he tried breaking up a fight. He fell and hit his head on concrete. He's now recovering at Mercy Hospital.
Bazille had his second surgery on Monday to reduce swelling on his brain. He's still unconscious in the hospital, and the next 24 to 48 hours are critical.
He was injured early Sunday morning at a home in Oak Grove in Anoka County. There was a birthday party for someone turning 30 at the home, and friends gathered for a toast. They just never expected the fight that would follow, and that Bazille would suffer serious injuries.
"Doctors told us they did not know if he was going to survive this particular set of injuries or not," said Cmdr. Paul Sommer of the Anoka County Sheriff's Office.
Bazille tried breaking-up an argument between two men, when one of them punched him.
Deputies were told that Bazille was "out cold" and then started convulsing, the criminal complaint said.
Deputies arrested Beau John Carlstrom of Coon Rapids for throwing the punch. He's in the Anoka County jail and was charged late Monday with first degree assault.
Paramedics rushed Bazille to Mercy Hospital, where doctors performed emergency brain surgery.
Bazille's father said that the family is crossing their fingers.
"We're praying for a miracle," he said.
Bazille was married six months ago. His family has been gathering at the hospital. They feel good about small movements he's made with his arms and feet.


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Club Brugge sign Belgian-Malaysian defender Dion Cools
Belgian Pro League outfit Club Brugge have signed a half Belgian-Malaysian defender Dion Cools on a four-year deal.
The 19-year-old plied his trade with Oud-Heverlee Leuven last season, having made 26 appearances in the second division and will continue his career in the Belgium's top flight for 2015/16 campaign.
"It was a childhood dream come true to play for Club Brugge, I'm a passionate fan since I was a young kid," said Cools in a statement on the club website regarding the move.
Cools, who has already represented Belgium U-19 in international level, is eligible to don the Harimau Malaya's jersey through his mother heritage, where he was also born in Kuching, Malaysia.
"It would be an honour for me [to represent Malaysia]," Cools revealed previously in an interview with FourFourTwo.
"My father is a Belgian and my mother is a Malaysian from Kuching, Sarawak who moved over here due to their marriage more than 20 years ago.
"I used to go regularly to Malaysia, as my mother's family is still there and I love the food especially the famous Sarawak laksa and the chicken rice!"
Players with mixed-parentage have been lighting up Malaysian football scene lately, following the likes of Junior Eldstal, Brendan Gan and Matthew Davies whose have opted to play for Malaysia.
Next : Cambodia's Phnom Penh Crown announce Keo Brothers capture


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Attachment 2705
WiiSCU by Wack0 (mod of IOS51+shop by tona) - powered by PatchMii. The application gives you the option to install new versions of channels and IOSes without touching the system menu.
CHANGELOG v0.24 Final
-Allows choice of Shop Channel version
Source:We Brew Wii: WiiSCU 0.24 Final
Download:WiiSCU 0.24


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Insular cortex
Revision as of 21:16, 3 October 2005 by WikiConvertor (Talk)
Insular cortex --> insula
1. An oval region of the cerebral cortex overlying the extreme capsule, lateral to the lenticular nucleus, buried in the depth of the fissura lateralis cerebri (sylvian fissure).
Synonym: insular area, insular cortex, island of reil.
Synonym: island.
3. Any circumscribed body or patch on the skin.
Origin: L. Island
Please contribute to this project, if you have more information about this term feel free to edit this page.


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Thailand may not have found a place in investment acronyms such as BRICS – (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) or TIMPs – (Turkey, Indonesia Mexico and the Philippines), but there's no denying that it has been one of the best-performing stock markets over the past decade. Many know Thailand for its beaches, fantastic food and recent political instability, but beyond that it's an export hub with dynamic growth and solid stock market performance. Thailand is an interesting case where the economy has progressed amidst short periods of political stability, almost irrepressibly so. (For related reading, see: This Asian Nation Is Poised For Steady Growth.)
Naturally Rich
With a cornucopia of natural resources like gas, oil, sugar, coconuts and other agricultural products and minerals, the country has focused on exports. It's the world's largest exporter of rice and also a major shrimp producer. In addition, several foreign automakers have operations in the country. Exports account for approximately 60% of Thailand's GDP. Domestically, huge infrastructure project investments have been stimulating the economy. Thailand's service economy, which includes banking, finance and tourism, accounts for almost half of its GDP and employs about 40% of its citizens.
Political Turmoil – Thai Style
The country has recently witnessed its 19th military coup since 1930 after years of unrest. Political upheaval has taken a toll on the economy, as seen in the contraction of Q1 GDP. Business confidence has been hurt and investment has slowed. On May 20, General Prayuth Chan-ocha launched a coup against a caretaker government. His junta, the The National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), censored broadcasters, repealed the constitution and arrested Thai cabinet members. He is focused on restoring confidence and keeping the economy on track by cracking down on protestors. (For related reading, see: Should India Be On Investors' Radar?.)
Stocks Shrugging Off the Trouble
Thai stocks seem to have welcomed the prospect of stability. So far in 2014, the SET (Stock Exchange of Thailand) Index has returned about 20%. Thai stocks had hit a low of 855.45 in October 2011 and a high of 1,643.43 in May 2013. The SET started 2014 at about 1,230 after unrest began to boil over in October. It's now trading at about 1,500. The path going forward may be shaky, though, and any dip could be construed as a good time to enter the market at a reasonable valuation.
Some of the good stock picks on the SET come from industrial, healthcare and infrastructure sectors, and high-dividend stocks such as utility companies. Some prominent names are hospitality concern Minor International (MINT), Bumrungrad International Hospital (BH), International Engineering Co. (IEC), Eternal Energy PCL (EE), Eastern Star Real Estate PCL (ESTAR), Bangkok Land (BLAND), Jasmine International PCL (JAS) and Airports of Thailand PCL (AOT).
Buying Thai Stocks
There are a few different ways for investors to invest in Thai stocks.
ETFs & Mutual Funds
The simplest way to invest in a diversified basket of Thai stocks without undergoing currency risk is via exchange-traded funds (ETFs). There is one ETF which concentrates exclusively on Thailand, the iShares MSCI Thailand Capped ETF (THD). It's the most convenient and popular option for a U.S. investor to participate in the Thai economy. The fund has net assets of around $540 million and about 120 holdings. It has more than doubled in value over the past five years (see returns below). Its five-largest holdings currently are from the financial, energy and telecommunication services sector. (For related reading, see: Get Emerging Markets Exposure With This ETF.)
|Total Return (%)
YTD to Aug. 4, 2014 Source: iShares by BlackRock
In addition, investments can be made through a close-ended fund, such as the Thai Fund Inc. Common (TTF). The fund has returned around 29.10% YTD as of Aug. 4 and has an expense ratio of just under 1%.
Over-The-Counter (OTC)
Investors looking to purchase individual stocks can look at the ADRs traded on the U.S. exchanges. Currently, there are no Thai shares listed on U.S. exchanges. However, many are available in the lightly regulated over-the-counter (OTC) market. Some popular names are Siam Commercial Bank (SMUUY), Advanced Info Service PCL (AVIFY), Bangkok Bank PCL (BKKLY), Airports of Thailand PCL (AIPUY), Asia Fiber Plc. (ASFBY) and Bangkok Life Assurance Ltd. (BKOKY).
Non-Voting Depository Receipts (NVDR)
Thailand restricts foreign ownership of companies to a maximum of 49%, except for banking and finance sector, where the limit is 25%. A better option to trade directly in Thai stocks is through Non-Voting Depository Receipts (NVDRs), as they have no such restrictions. NVDRs entitle foreign shareholders to dividend payments but not voting rights. Some international brokers that can help investors trade Thai stocks include Euro Pacific Capital, EverTrade (EverBank) and NobleTrading.
Bottom Line
If investors can stomach the tumult, Thai stocks offer the chance at very healthy performance. The new military government is pressing on reforms and restructuring, which shares of Thai companies have already reacted positively to. The Thai central bank has forecasted a growth rate of 5.5% in 2015 despite differing opinions about the future course of the Thai economy. One thing is sure, though: with its sound financial situation and attractive stock valuations, Thailand still presents a solid case for investment. The best time to buy could be while everyone else remains a bit wary. (For related reading, see: Investing In The ASEAN Region.)


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Tigers sell Figaro's contract to Japanese team
Tigers sell Figaro's contract to Japanese team
DETROIT -- The Tigers released right-hander Alfredo Figaro on Tuesday after the organization sold his contract to the Orix Buffaloes in the Japanese Pacific League. Figaro, 26, was 0-2 with a 6.75 ERA in eight appearances for the Tigers in 2010, allowing 11 earned runs on 18 hits over 14 2/3 innings, and he went 10-6 with a 4.14 ERA in 23 starts for Triple-A Toledo. Over his two seasons with the Tigers, Figaro compiled a 2-4 record with a 6.54 ERA in 13 outings (four starts).
The Tigers now have 39 players on their 40-man roster.
Kelly Thesier is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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DENVER (CBS4) – Seeing elephants marching down the street in Denver can only mean one thing — the circus is in town.
The Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus opens at the Denver Coliseum later this week. On Tuesday the Asian elephants made their traditional walk to the Coliseum.
The circus runs through Oct. 9 and tickets are still available.


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U.S. Should Help Chinese Regulate
Originally published in The Philadelphia Inquirer, July 15, 2007
The Western media have a habit of going on feeding frenzies.
Ironically, when it comes to China, the latest feeding frenzy concerns food itself. The execution this week of the former head of China's State Food and Drug Administration, Zhen Xiaoyu, who accepted almost $1 million in bribes, shows that the frenzy has now seeped into China as well.
First came a spate of stories about pet food laced with melamine (a coal derivative), and cough medicine and toothpaste adulterated with diethylene glycol (a sweet-tasting industrial chemical used in anti-freeze and brake fluid).
Other reports involved toy trains decorated with lead-based paints, bacteria-infected antibiotics, exploding cell phone batteries, and defective car tires.
Now, attention has turned to food. The world press is filled with stories about honey laced with industrial sweeteners, canned goods contaminated by bacteria and excessive amounts of additives, rice wine braced with industrial alcohol, and farm-raised fish, eel, and shrimp fed large doses of antibiotics and then washed down with formaldehyde to lower bacterial counts.
In response, China's government acted almost instantly.
The General Administration of Quality and Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine conducted a survey and reported that nearly one-fifth of all products made in China for domestic use did not measure up to safety and quality standards.
At the same time, regulators increased inspections, closed down some 180 food manufacturers, and now post the names of violators on their Web site.
Moreover, not only was Zhen Xiaoyu executed, but Cao Wenzhuang, who was in charge of drug registration at the State Food and Drug Administration, was also sentenced to death for accepting about $300,000 in bribes from drug manufacturers.
But why does this surprise us? After all, "capitalism with Chinese characteristics" has been a chaotic free-for-all for some time. About 75 percent of China's food is now produced by small, private and unlicensed operations that are difficult to regulate.
With little knowledge of China's tectonic changes, foreigners have been investing, buying, trading and extravagantly praising its amazing, but hell-bent, "economic boom." But the Chinese themselves have long known that the purity of their food, medicine, water and air is in doubt.
Indeed, the back-alley news has long been replete with rumors of things going awry.
One small-time operation ground up sheet-rock and put it in gel-caps to sell as medicine. Peasant villagers raided a hospital dumpster to reclaim discarded surgical equipment, washed it in a nearby canal, re-packaged it in sealed plastic saying "sterilized," and sold it back to the hospital at cut-rate prices.
It has not helped, of course, that the Communist Party loathes a free press and a robust civil society, both of which are essential providers of feedback in ensuring any country's well-being.
Nor has it helped that China's mad rush toward wealth and power has given it little chance to develop all the compensatory institutions that any truly developed society needs to achieve equilibrium and social health.
But, before we in the West become too censorious of China's quality control problems, we should remember our complicity in making China the world's industrial park and global dumping ground for many toxic industries.
While we may lament the loss of manufacturing jobs through "outsourcing," we certainly do not lament exporting massive amounts of pollution to China.
China may come to rue the wanton eagerness with which it has embraced industrialization.
Already, the Chinese are beginning to awaken from the infatuation with development that besieged them as they began to emerge from the commodity-starved Cultural Revolution. In a world of scarcity, more always seemed better.
But now, just as the West began to understand decades ago that the natural environment has limits, China is showing the first signs of entering a post-industrial phase.
So, rather than simply shutting our doors to Chinese products, we might contemplate helping China by opening the doors of our regulatory agencies to Chinese regulators.
To do so would actually help ourselves. For, even with "strategic competitors" like China, we now live in a global commons in which we share air, water, manufactured goods and even food.
Orville Schell is the Arthur Ross Director of the Asia Society's Center on U.S.-China Relations.


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Former Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri, considered Lebanon's most influential Muslim Sunni politician, returned unexpectedly to Lebanon Friday after three years of self-imposed exile.
His return comes amid heightened tensions in Lebanon after Sunni extremists from Syria overran a town in the east, along the Lebanon-Syria border as well as the growing perception that there is a leadership gap among the country's Sunni Muslims.
Hariri left Lebanon in January, 2011, after his government was brought down by the Shia group Hezbollah and its allies. He has since split his time between Paris and Saudi Arabia, citing concerns for his safety.
Hariri is the son of slain former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, who was killed in a truck bombing in February 2005 and whose assassination triggered a massive popular uprising that led to the withdrawal of Syrian troops in Lebanon following a decades-long military presence.
The younger Hariri was ousted as prime minister after he refused to renounce a UN-backed tribunal to try the killers of his late father.
His return Friday comes as the Lebanese army tightened its control over the border town of Arsal, which was seized by Syria-based Islamic extremists on Saturday, triggering days of ferocious fighting with the army.
Hariri on Wednesday announced from Saudi Arabia a grant of $1-billion for the Lebanese army to help its fight against militants.
Upon returning Friday, Hariri visited the grave of his father in downtown Beirut and then met Prime Minister Tammam Salam.


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The US banking major has also appointed Surojit Shome the new head of corporate banking in India, which is an expanded role which incorporates his current financial institutions portfolio.
Shome will report to Sanjay Nayar, Citigroup country officer - India, and area head - Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal, as well as to Sanjiv Misra, regional head - Asia Pacific corporate banking.
Shome, who joined Citigroup in 1988, held, in the past 17 years, various positions including in Dubai as unit head for the mortgage group, regional corporate bank head role in north and south India and industry head position for autos.
Nayar said Shome's successful stint as head of financial institutions in India will be instrumental in leveraging the growth and development of the group's corporate banking in India. Vohra, who took charge in the Philippines effective November 1, 2005, will report to Catherine Weir, head - Asean, and Citigroup country officer, Singapore.
In addition, Vohra will have the oversight for Citigroup franchise in the Philippines in his capacity as Citigroup country officer, the Philippines.


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Bébé au Lait or Hooter Hiders Nursing Covers
Baby Bump: Bébé au Lait
For first time moms, nursing is a new thing. It may be tough in the beginning, but it usually gets easier. What does not always get easier is the modesty factor. Sure there are moms who have no problem whipping the boob out in public. I, for one, am not one of those moms.
I envied their confidence. However, Bebe au Lait solved my dilemma with the adorable and functional nursing cover. Bébé au Lait, also known as Hooter Hiders, uses cheerful fabrics to make apron like covers that go around mommy's neck and have boning along the neckline to allow for eye contact between mama and bébé.
And for working moms who have to pump at the office, it's a welcome camouflage for the milk manufacturing plant you're running behind closed doors.


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Braves to raise money for community
Braves to raise money for community
"We always want to do more," said Ericka Newsome, executive director of the foundation. "We always want to raise more money, because the more money we raise, the more money we can distribute back into the community."
The Foundation Weekend runs Friday through Sunday. Fans attending those games against the St. Louis Cardinals can purchase and/or bid on items in the Hank Aaron room at Field Level, Aisle 128, starting when the gates open 2 1/2 hours before the game.
Beating last year's money total could be easy, since the Braves Foundation went above and beyond in securing items for fans to bid on and purchase.
The items include a base autographed by Aaron, a clubhouse recliner signed by the entire Braves team, a game-used, autographed John Smoltz glove, and several more items from past and present Braves players.
Fans will also be able to bid on Cardinals items, including an Albert Pujols autograph.
"This year, we've tried to get really creative on what we're offering to fans," Newsome said. "The players know how important this event is to the Atlanta Braves Foundation, so they have donated some unique items."
The Atlanta Braves Foundation uses money raised through events such as Foundation Weekend by offering grants to local charity and community organizations in need within the metro Atlanta area. Since its inception in 1992, the Foundation has raised more than a million dollars.
Newsome said Foundation Weekend is one of the organization's most productive events, and one of the most special because it involves fan and player participation.
"I think the fans really enjoy Foundation Weekend and they look forward to it every year," Newsome said. "We have silent auctions every night, but the fans are asking us when Foundation Weekend is."
Jeff Lutz is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.