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Watching online videos is part of the daily routine of a considerable fraction of Internet users nowadays. Understanding the patterns of access to these videos is paramount for improving the capacity planning for video providers, the conversion rate for advertisers, and the relevance of the whole online video watching experience for end users. While much… (More)
Introduction Motivation Demand for scalable and robust modeling tools: An increasing amount of data is being stored Data is getting more complex Complex Networks is a popular and successful model that has been applied to fields such as sport, economy, and biology, among others.
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Dog, that it. :( We tried everything to keep him in the yard this time because we didn't want the same thing to happen to him that happened to our last dog. Well, he always found a way out. :( We noticed he hadn't been around for a couple of days and figured he was out looking for a girlfriend. ;) The last time he went missing for a few days, that's where he was. Then he came home and laid around the yard for a week. Well, this morning I was heading to the store to get some milk and saw him on the side of the road. :( We haven't told the boys yet, and really not sure if we will. We really don't want to go through all the emotions with them again. It's just too hard. I think Jacky is going to get him and take him somewhere to bury him later. I'm just so sad for my boys. We really tried to keep him home, but he was just too determined to roam. :( I think I'm done with dogs. :( I can't take the heartbreak anymore. :(
I'm sorry :(
Oh, I'm so sorry! I'd say that it might be best not to tell the boys. If they're already used to him being gone, it might just be best to let them think he just ran away or something. I don't know it that's dishonest, but it seems the least painful route.
awwww im so sorry!
awwww im so sorry!
awwww im so sorry!
:( That stinks! Yeah, I don't think I'd bring it up anymore about the dog unless they ask where he is. I think it's best to just let them think that it ran away rather than break their heart again. :dothug:
So far they haven't asked. Jack will probably be the only one to mention it. When he does I think I'll just play dumb. :(
:( We had boy dogs that roamed alot too when I was little. :( So sorry!
:Hug: I am so sorry!
Male dogs will roam, sorry. We had one that ended up like that too.
I am sorry!
Oh no! I'm so sorry :(
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What's What
A new publication entitled ' A what's what for new members ' has been produced to provide an insight into how the club operates.
It is aimed at new members but even existing members will learn something new - have a read !
Please send any feedback to the Sailing Secretary - Julie Hicklin
Only registered members will be able to access the document below.
To access the information on this page you must be a member of South Staffordshire Sailing Club. If you are a member of South Staffordshire Sailing Club then please log in or register now.
Please allow a few days after registering for access rights to members only pages to be granted.


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News By Tag
Industry News
News By Location
Industry News
T5 Data Centers' New State-of-the-Art T5@Dallas Facility in Plano, Texas, Is Now "Server-Ready"
New Purpose-Built Data Center Now Available for Lease for Business-Critical Enterprise Customers, Offering Tornado-proof Building and Redundant Power.
The new T5@Dallas data center is a purpose-built, 150,000-square-
"Dallas is a booming market for server-ready data center services, particularly since enterprise customers are looking for facilities in technology-based business centers," said Pete Marin, President of T5. "Locating our T5@Dallas operation in Legacy in Plano also gives us a unique business location. And clients also benefit from our purpose-built facility - this is not a converted warehouse, but a custom designed data center constructed with infrastructure and security in mind."
The new T5@Dallas data center was designed for large enterprise customers seeking a customizable, "always-on" computing environment. T5 maintains round-the-clock engineering and support staff, as well as redundant systems to deliver the best service possible as well as peace of mind. The company already supports a number of Fortune 200 companies at its other data center facilities.
"We just put the first 3 MWs of critical power through its paces and the electrical, mechanical, and control system design and installation proved to be robust and resilient," said Joe Parrino, Senior Vice President of T5, responsible for data center portfolio operations. "Our commissioning agent created a complex script of simulations at multiple load levels, and the critical infrastructure systems performed to specification throughout the testing. We are ready to handle any kind of mission-critical data requirements."
About T5 Data Centers
T5 Data Centers (T5) is a leading national data center owner and operator, committed to delivering customizable, scalable data centers that provide an "always on" computing environment. T5 Data Centers provides enterprise and wholesale data center services to organizations across North America using best-in-class technology and techniques, designing the MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) plant to achieve a low Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE), thus delivering the lowest possible total cost of operations for its clients. T5 currently has business-critical data center facilities in Atlanta, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Charlotte with additional data centers planned for the near future. All of T5's data center projects are purpose-built facilities with the robust design, power requirements, and redundancy, and have 24-hour staff to support mission-critical computing applications.
For more information, visit http://www.t5datacenters.com.
Media Contact:
Aaron Wangenheim
T5 Data Centers
(415) 292-7700
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Old profile pic
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Stock Graphic >> Object - White shelves Vector 161222 by Stacy @ CreativeMarket
File Size: 1.02 MB; Layered: Yes; Vector: Yes.
Empty white shelves for exhibit on light background EPS and high resolution JPG in ZIP.
Keywords: shelf, blank, white, template, store, interior, design, empty, exhibition, shop, business, light, realistic, furniture, exhibit, bookshelf, illustration, market, vector, place.


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Capital Budgeting. Process of identifying, evaluating, and selecting capital projects Capital projects involve the purchase of a long-term (fixed) asset Part of the "Investment Decision" from Chapter 1 – What assets should the firm own?. Types of Projects. Replacement of existing assets
Download Policy: Content on the Website is provided to you AS IS for your information and personal use and may not be sold / licensed / shared on other websites without getting consent from its author.While downloading, if for some reason you are not able to download a presentation, the publisher may have deleted the file from their server.


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a former Prussian province, now part of Hesse, Germany.
Tagged: r
Read Also:
- Rhenium
noun, Chemistry. 1. a rare metallic element of the manganese subgroup: used, because of its high melting point, in platinum-rhenium thermocouples. Symbol: Re; atomic number: 75; atomic weight: 186.2. noun 1. a dense silvery-white metallic element that has a high melting point. It occurs principally in gadolinite and molybdenite and is used, alloyed with tungsten […]
- Rheo-
1. a combining form meaning "flow," "current," "stream," used in the formation of compound words: rheoscope. combining form 1. indicating stream, flow, or current: rheometer, rheoscope rheo- pref. Current; flow: rheotaxis.
- Rheobase
noun, Physiology. 1. the minimum electric current required to excite a given nerve or muscle. noun 1. (physiol) the minimum nerve impulse required to elicit a response from a tissue rheobase rhe·o·base (rē'ō-bās') n. The minimal strength of an electrical stimulus that is able to cause excitation of a tissue. rhe'o·ba'sic adj.
- Rheology
noun 1. the study of the deformation and flow of matter. noun 1. the branch of physics concerned with the flow and change of shape of matter rheology rhe·ol·o·gy (rē-ŏl'ə-jē) n. The study of the deformation and flow of matter. rhe'o·log'i·cal (rē'ə-lŏj'ĭ-kəl) adj. rhe'o·log'i·cal·ly adv.


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The OECD is a global economic forum working with 35 member countries and more than 100 emerging and developing economies to make better policies for better lives. Our mission is to promote policies that will improve the economic and social well-being of people around the world. The Organisation provides a unique forum in which governments work together to share experiences on what drives economic, social and environmental change, seeking solutions to common problems.
Assist in the preparation of all G20/G7/APEC official functions of the Secretary-General and Sherpa and co-ordinate and prepare replies for the Secretary-General's incoming mail and letters related to the Sherpa office.
Work at bolstering OECD visibility and relevance vis-à-vis the Presidencies and membership of the abovementioned multilateral groupings, by establishing and maintaining high-level and technical level contacts, including with non-OECD members.
Contribute to, and support the organisation of the work of the Sherpa Office and participation of the OECD in G20 / G7 / APEC meetings through the preparation, in collaboration with OECD Directorates, of economic policy notes aimed at informing the agenda and programme of work of the respective Presidencies and membership of the abovementioned fora.
In liaison with Directorates, prepare detailed background briefings, talking points and speeches underpinning OECD management's participation in multilateral fora, ensuring that key strategic issues are covered and key strategic messages are transmitted.
Leverage the G20, G7, APEC and other relevant groupings as platforms to maximise the visibility and showcase the breadth and depth, as well as the quality and relevance of OECD's work, analysis and instruments to deal with issues of global systemic dimension relevant to all members of these groupings; as well as to support individual OECD and non-OECD members of these groupings to address their domestic economic challenges.
Anticipate emerging global policy challenges and help the Organisation, and in particular the OECD Sherpa, to respond with cutting edge policy analysis and outputs relevant to the global discussion.
Leverage OECD's contribution to the G20 and to APEC to raise its profile as an effective and trusted global standard-setter and to enhance the Organisations' relationship with Key partners and other non-OECD members.
Participate actively in on-going processes to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the Sherpa Office and Global Governance Unit.
Carry out a variety of other tasks as assigned (communication with and reporting to Member countries, update of Sherpa office communication tools, organisation of meetings and seminars, representation of the OECD in international meetings, etc.).
Ideal Candidate Profile
An advanced university degree in economics, international law, international relations and/or political science.
An excellent understanding of complex geo-economic-political issues and/or strong analytical skills in economics.
Eight to ten years relevant professional experience in dealing with multilateral questions in a national administration or international organization.
Excellent knowledge of international economic issues, in particular policy aspects of those issues.
Co-operation, discretion, the ability to solve problems and build consensus. Sound political judgment.
Flexibility, responsiveness, ability to work under pressure; anticipate problems and act quickly to resolve them in an appropriate manner.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with members of national delegations and staff within the organization.
An excellent command of one of the two official languages of the OECD (English and French) and working knowledge of, or willingness to learn, the other.
Knowledge of other languages would be an asset.
For this role, the following competencies would be of particular importance: Achievement focus, Analytical and Flexible thinking, Drafting skills, Diplomatic sensitivity, Influencing, Negotiating, Organisational knowledge and Strategic networking and thinking.
Please refer to the full list of OECD Core Competencies and the level 4 indicators.
Two year fixed term appointment, with the possibility of renewal.
Monthly base salary starting from 8,113 EUR, plus allowances based on eligibility, exempt of French income tax.


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May 18, 2009
Sean Hannity: He shocked the nation back in 1998 when he stormed onto the political scene and won Minnesota's race. Now former Minnesota governor, pro wrestler and Navy SEAL, Jesse "The Body" Ventura is considering perhaps another political comeback? His book, "Don't start the revolution without me" describes his outrage at the state of affairs in the U.S. It is now out in paperback.
Good to see you.
Jesse Ventura: Good to see you, Sean, always.
Sean Hannity: I'll tell you, he has been yelling at me ever since he walked into the green room today.
Jesse Ventura: I don't yell at anyone. I speak to people. It's your reputation that precedes you.
Sean Hannity: You were just right on me. Well, you said you didn't think you would like me until you met me. Didn't you say that to me?
Jesse Ventura: Yeah.
Sean Hannity: What didn't you like about me?
Jesse Ventura: I don't always care for how you operate and the bullying of guests and things like that.
Sean Hannity: I don't bully, oh stop. I couldn't bully you for a million. I couldn't bully you. You'd slap me down so hard.
Jesse Ventura: You can bully other people. You do it to other people and I get irritated when I see that at home.
Sean Hannity: You say you have been out surfing the past 6 months. Have you really been in Mexico surfing for six months?
Jesse Ventura: No. Unfortunately only for three months because my brother in law was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's Disease on October 2nd and he passed on January 14th. So I didn't get to Mexico till the end of January because he was my wife's younger brother and she stayed home and took care of him until his passing. It's a horrible disease, it's an awful disease.
Continue reading


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Why Stonyfield Cares
At Stonyfield, conservation has been in our DNA from the very beginning. That's why we're so proud to support the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) as they help save animals from extinction.
These animals need help, with populations that have declined dramatically—making them some of the most endangered animals in the world. Fortunately, AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums have thriving populations of some of these species—so you can see them face-to-face and learn what you can do to make a difference.
It starts with AZA's SAFE program. That stands for Saving Animals From Extinction—and it's a way for everyone to get involved. SAFE created a conservation plan that brings together zoos, aquariums and other partners to prevent the extinction of these endangered animals.
Here's how AZA SAFE is helping animals and the planet:
Signature Species
The AZA community focused their planning and conservation on 10 SAFE Signature Species.
Conservation Action
Guided by the collective expertise from the staff at hundreds of AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums, they put their best conservation ideas into action.
Public Engagement
With over 181 million visitors each year, the AZA has as massive audience to inspire and educate—giving people ways to get involved with protecting endangered animals and their habitats.
Wildlife Care Expertise
The organization's zoos care for 6,000 species of animals—close to 1,000 of which are endangered in the wild—giving the caregivers critical insights on how to best support wild populations.
To learn more about AZA SAFE, visit www.aza.org/aza-safe.
If you still have questions, visit our FAQ page, for more information


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Benefits of CALENDULA OIL:
- Used to Treat: Spider veins, varicose veins, leg ulcers, and chilblains. Chilblain is a distressing and painful inflammation of small blood vessels in the skin that creates a sudden warming feeling from cold temperatures.
- Infant care: This oil helps diaper rashes, which can be extremely irritating to an infant.
- Cuts and wounds: The antimicrobial and antiseptic action of the oil help accelerate healing of mild cuts and wounds, and also benefit bed sores, acne, and insect bites.
- Calendula helps stimulate collagen that helps minimize scarring.
- Skin issues: Great for eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, as well as other skin problems.
- The anti-fungal activity of Calendula oil can also be great for treating jock itch, ringworm, and athlete's foot.
- Helps stimulate the lymphatic system.
- Soothing: It calms injured areas and decreases the pain.
- Reduces Inflammation: It works well on sprains, muscles or bruises; its anti-inflammatory activity helps decrease swelling from injury.
- Powerful anti-aging properties.
- Low allergenic: It is a good oil for sensitive skin types.
- Pungent Floral Earthy scent.
- Very think oil that can be solid at room temperature.
- Absorbs quickly into the skin.
- Does not stain sheets.
- Good shelf life about a year, if refrigerated after opening.
Do you know what Calendula is? You may have it in your yard, or you might know someone who does. It is produced from the flower from the (pot) "marigold" plant. As children me and my friends would eat marigolds because someone told us that we could. It was more for the shock value when someone new was around. Once I started studying herbalism, I discovered how beneficial Marigolds "Calendula" really were.
Calendula oil has tremendous benefits. This oil is an infused "carrier oil" and not an essential oil. There is an essential oil made from marigolds named Tagetes. Nevertheless, Calendula oil is an amazing oil on its own or you can mix it with essential oils to make an exceptional blend. Calendula is also used in tinctures and teas for it beneficial anti-fungal and antibacterial properties.
Calendula oils and creams are used to treat infections of the skin and to disinfect minor wounds. The plant's immunostimulant and antibacterial properties make it exceptionally useful in treating slow-healing wounds and cuts in those who have compromised immune systems.
The antimicrobial and antiseptic action of the oil help accelerate healing of mild cuts and wounds and helps stimulate collagen that can help minimize scarring. Gargling with calendula water can ease sore throat. It is an emmenagogue; that is a herb used to stimulates blood flow in the uterus and pelvis region, and can stimulate menstruation. Calendula is also an anti-inflammatory and vulnerary herb and is useful for healing stubborn wounds, treating burns, amenorrhea, conjunctivitis, temperatures, acne, bed sores, varicose veins, rashes, eczema, ulcers, scrapes, bruises, jock itch, ringworm, and athlete's foot.
Blending Calendula Oil with Essential Oils
Body Massage Oil: 40-60 drops of essential oil to about 4 ounces of Calendula Oil.
Everyday Home Use: 10-20 drops of essential oils with 1 ounce of Calendula Oil.
Therapeutic: 25-30 drops of essential oil to about 1/2 oz of Calendula Oil.
- Therapeutic blends are normally used to address a specific health issue and is not used long-term.
- Some Essential Oils need fewer drops due to their high potency.
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DOUGLAS COUNTY - Two Douglas County Schools students have been arrested for reporting fabricated threats against their schools in an attempt to shut them down on Thursday, the anniversary of the Columbine shooting.
The Douglas County Sheriff's Office and the Douglas County School District said that all of the rumored threats were investigated and were found to be non-credible.
It was during the investigation that the sheriff's office said they discovered the students were hoping to close down the schools on the anniversary of the Columbine shooting with the fictitious threats.
On Thursday, two students were arrested for making the false reports. One student is being charged with false reporting to authorities, a class three misdemeanor. The other student is facing the same charge, as well as interference at an educational institution, another misdemeanor, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor, a class four felony.
There were no details released as to what the specific threats were or which schools were affected.
The sheriff's office and school district are asking parents to remind their students about the seriousness of making false reports and spreading online rumors. They also urge students to contact them immediately if they hear of a threat they think might be credible.


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PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — "That's the only fight that will get me back in the ring," Floyd Mayweather said of a cross-sport bout against UFC star Conor McGregor.
Mayweather, 39, retired in 2015 with a 49-0 record but told Sky Sports 1 that, "Most likely the fight between me and Conor McGregor will happen."
So when will the fight take place?
Related: Mayweather-McGregor Would Be The Biggest Sports Event Of 2017
"I don't know," he said. "I need to communicate with my team, the fight hasn't been made yet, but it is all about entertainment so hopefully we can make it happen."
McGregor, 28, has obtained a boxing license in hopes of fighting Mayweather.
Many believe this could be the first "billion dollar fight."


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Gone in a Heartbeat Trailer (1996)
03 December 1996 Drama, Thriller 86 mins
When teenage students kidnap Jan Hale they do not mean her any real harm - they just want enough ransom money from her husband Mark to afford a life of luxury. However, when they leave Jan handcuffed to the steering wheel of their car in the freezing cold, they are not aware that she suffers from a potentially fatal heart condition. Mark is racing against time as he and the police play a game of cat and mouse with the kidnappers, aware that he may never see his wife alive again.
Watch the official Gone in a Heartbeat 1996 trailer in HD below or find more Gone in a Heartbeat videos on Vidimovie.


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Skip to comments.Russia 'to renew offer to supply S-300s to Iran'
Posted on 09/11/2013 3:56:16 AM PDT by elhombrelibre
Russian President Vladimir Putin will offer to supply Iran S-300 air defence missile systems as well as build a second reactor at the Bushehr nuclear plant, the Kommersant business daily reported Wednesday.
Putin will renew an old offer to supply Iran with five of the sophisticated ground-to-air missile systems at a meeting with Iranian President Hassan Rowhani on Friday, Kommersant said, quoting a souce close to the Kremlin.
Putin is set to meet Rowhani at a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation held in Kyrgyzstan on Friday.
(Excerpt) Read more at france24.com ...
You cannot blame Putin for putting Russia first. You cannot blame Italians for waving the Italian flag. You cannot blame Mexicans for wanting to take back what they believe is theirs. You cannot blame the French for thinking France is the best nation on earth.
It's called nationalism. We Americans should try it sometime. Without it someone else takes control.
You are NOT a "Putin excuser" you are an American nationalist who finds it to be a conflict of interest to support anti-American Obama.
Putin's nationalism is about Putin, not Russia. That, my friend, is a whole different matter.
People used to excuse Hitler by saying he was merely a nationalist, too. Nationalism that promotes only the interest of the fuhrer is not nationalism.
You have to remember a little farther back. Russia and Iran have been pretty well tied together at least since WW II. It was then that we (US) helped modernize the N/S railroad thru Iran to supply Russia thru the back door-—Aluminum, Studebaker trucks, etc. To this day that rail line is a major supply route for central Russia. The notion that the two aren't going to get along well enough to keep the road open is a non-starter. As long as Iran can afford to pay, Putin will sell them weapons, typewriters, or whatever they need.
You say that as if they must sell them. The sales have been in abeyance for some time. That means Putin can control himself. He doesn't have to sell the missiles. It's not like Russia will die if it doesn't sell the mad mullahs missiles. I know some think it's his Christian duty to do so, but I don't.
I guess Putty figures he's wearing the big boy pants in the region now and can do what he likes.
Wonder how he got that idea?
Couldn't be that he's sized-up puny pathetic Bathhouse Barry, kicked some sand in his face and found him wanting?
Agree. But we need to keep in mind that Barry's foolishness and failures in foreign policy are much like his foolishness and failures in domestic policy. He's bringing us down at home and abroad, and Putin is no good guy for arming Iran with advanced weapons. One side note, I believe Israels warning concerned Syria and not Iran, but I may be wrong.
The best SAMs in the world won't do much against an enemy that would use stand-off weapons well out of range of air defense. And both the United States and Israel are experienced at knocking out air defense radar, thus rendering SAMs useless. But putting all of Syria's defense eggs in the S-300 basket is Bashar's only hope.
Maybe so but I would hardly expect a Russian to put the United States above Russia anymore than I would a Frenchman put the USA above France. That's OUR job and supporting the Obama agenda is not going to get that job done.
NO ONE.... Not Russia or the US should ever have sold the Muslim Countries any weapons ever. But both nations are very guilty of this. The Russians had to face their own weapons in Afghanistan, we faced some of our own weapons in Iraq and if we ever have to do anything with S/A we will totally face our own weapons. Even Iran has US weapons (old but there). The Muslim Countries are not our or Russia's friends but both Countries continue this stupid self defeating supply line to people we should have left to fight amongst themselves with swords.
Well now you're going to an extreme. Hitler was not a nationalist, he was a madman.
Nationalism/Localism is only natural (unless you're an American liberal).
We support our High School football team, our city baseball team, you may be for the Yankees, I'm for the Red Sox, we may hope the USA wins all the gold in the Olympics, the Vietnamese are going to root for their country and of course the liberal American is going to root for whoever America's biggest enemy is at the given time. To a liberal American democrat, such as Barack Obama, America needs to be taught a lesson for all of the "evils" it has caused.
They are also racists. They believe the reason why we got to where we were (until Obama knocked us down a few notches) is because America is predominantly white. They think white is supreme therefore anybody or national not white has an unfair disadvantage under us and their agendas reflect that from racial quotas in the work place to giving the Mexicans "what the whites took from them" even if it means opening the borders to let them in.
You wont see China or Russia using racial quotas in the work place. That's an advantage these nations have over us. Under Obama some of the other advantages we once had over communist China and socialist Russia are being dismantled (AKA Free Market), soon the results of Obama's hard work will begin to be obvious.
Nationalism is normal. It's not really that we conservatives are such extreme nationalists as it is that those in charge of this nation are so anti-America that not one drop of nationalism is in their blood.
During the Olympics a few years ago I remember the liberals tried to ban Americans from shouting "USA, USA" during the games. Why? Because they think we are better than the other teams because we are white.
The truth is, most Americans shout "USA, USA" not because of the color of our skin but because we love our nation just as the German, the Liberians and the Filipinos do.
We keep supporting these people and their agenda and we're DOOMED.
We've probably lost our position of power in the Middle East to Russia in just the last few weeks, but for the last few years (especially under Obama) we have been working hard to achieve that loss. It's unfortunate, yes. But anybody watching cannot be surprised.
How can America think it can make a deal with Assad (or Iran for that matter)if he gives up his WMD after the world seen Gadaffi volunteer his WMDs to us only a few years before we started bombing him?
The world saw that, including North Korea and Iran.
Sorry, we no longer have credibility.
If I were Assad, Iran or North Korea I would not trust the USA in any WMD deals after what we've been doing since Obama took office. It would be suicide. THAT is unfortunate and one BIG reason why I did NOT support Obama and John McCain in Libya.
We lost credibility under Obama and it was lost long before Aug 21 and long before his "red line" comment. We lost credibility when bombed Libya during a radical islamic uprising AFTER the man made a deal and gave us his WMDs.
They see Russia as the one with credibility now.
You are right, Russia is NO friend of the United States. But then again, after what we've been under Obama, why would anybody be our friends now?
Hitler was not a nationalist, he wanted to unite all of Europe under a New World Order.
Yup, it's just an old liberal argument to try to pour cold water on an American who loves America. Just try to compare the America loving American to Hitler and silence his "USA, USA" chants. They've often tried to compare Reagan to Hitler. Sad to see some Freepers have started using that old liberal technique.
Sources: US weapons stolen in Libya raids, fueling Special Forces pull-out
In 2012 Obama told Putin there would be more flexibility after the election.
If these are not national security issue, nothing is.
What is your stance on Syria and Iran? Just tell me what do you see as a REALISTIC approach to solve it.
It seems like you don't like how it is getting solved, you might have some points but what is your alternative plan?
Ah, what looks okay?
Now, Obama's Putin's bitch.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.


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Brewing Up a New Chapter at the Arcaffe Chain
Sarah Shemer is a very strict woman, perhaps too strict, she says. Arcaffe, the chain of coffee shops founded by Shemer eight years ago, now has eight branches. "A slow growth rate," she admits, "but that is the price one pays when one goes into detail, when one is not willing to compromise."
Other chains, not only in the food industry, have grown rapidly in recent years, via the franchise system. Sara and Jacob Shemer, however, chose to work on their own. "During our eight years of operation," says Sara, "we have been approached by hundreds of people who have wanted to buy a franchise and open an Arcaffe branch, but we decided not to go with just anyone."
Now the Shemers are changing direction, and have decided to sell a master franchise license to a group of investors headed by Tamir Barelko, who has been serving as the chain's CEO. While the group will open and run coffee shops under the Arcaffe name, the Shemers will continue to open additional branches and will soon appoint a new CEO.
Sara explains that the sale of the master license will allow the chain to expand faster. The group of investors will pay royalties to the Shemers and the brand will retain its quality because the Shemers will still be in control of it. Sara promises that there will be no difference between the branches opened by the Shemers and those opened by Barelko.
"Our role is to create growth channels," she says. "The new chain is another channel, as it provides the employees with another option for growth and advancement."
Shemer declines to disclose the franchise fee paid by the group of investors, or how much royalties they will pay, preferring instead to focus on what she says is the most important aspect of the deal and will ensure the level of quality - the sale of just one license and not the sale of many franchises to different people, as the Aroma chain did.
"The franchise system can create a problem," she says, "but in order to increase growth in a business rich in resources and employees, going it alone is impossible."
The average investment for setting up an Arcaffe branch is $500,000, says Shemer, who is unwilling to disclose the chain's revenues. Sources in the restaurant industry, however, estimate that in 2002, Arcaffe's revenues were NIS 55-60 million, compared to NIS 46 million in 2001.
"We are trying to grow in the best possible way - by granting a franchise to the man who was our CEO," she says. "We have the exact same understanding of the values of the brand. That cannot be said about anyone unless he has run a business with the owners."
The first Arcaffe branch was opened in 1995 and now, in addition to the eight branches in Herzliya, Tel Aviv, Ramat Aviv and Ramat Gan, the chain operates five stands at malls in the Dan region. In the coming months, two more branches will be opened - in Ra'anana and Netanya. In 2004, the owners will open three branches, as will Barelko's group.
Shemer does not mention her competitors, but it is clear that she is well aware of what is happening in the market. The Aroma chain has expanded rapidly via the sale of franchises, and currently operating 28 branches - 25 of which are franchises. An Aroma franchise costs $50,000 and royalties are 3-5 percent of turnover. It costs about $250,000 to set up an Aroma branch.
"Our relationship with our franchisee are very defined," Shemer says. "New branches will be opened only with our approval. We are taking assets that we have built up over the years and are planning to forge ahead with them."
Shemer notes that Barelko was a partner in the building of the infrastructure that now facilitates rapid expansion.
When asked how many Arcaffes she thinks the Israeli market can support, Shemer notes that there are thousands of cafes operated by independent entrepreneurs. "This shows that we have barely scratched the surface of our potential," she says.
Shemer rejects the notion that Arcaffe appeals mainly to clientele from northern Tel Aviv and the southern Sharon region. "The feedback cards filled out by our customers show that many of them come from Rishon Letzion and Netanya," she says. "We won't have to invest in order to succeed in those cities."
Shemer admits that Arcaffe's prices are high, but notes that the chain is not trying to court consumers with prices, but rather with quality. "We are operating in a competitive world and our customers are demanding, educated and knowledgeable. The have been overseas and know what they like."
Shemer says Arcaffe's secret to success is the perfect combination of Italian coffee, French baked goods, American service, an international atmosphere and, above all, an eye for fine details. She is proficient in everything that goes on at Arcaffe - from the design plans and through to the glass cups used for serving the chain's homemade yogurt.
At the Arcaffe branch on Basel St. in Tel Aviv, there seems to be no differences of rank in Shemer's relationship with the employees. The smooth management is not surprising. Shemer is a seasoned marketer who has a doctorate in mass communications; she used to manage the research and strategy department of the Gitam BBDO advertising agency and has worked in marketing consulting. When asked who Arcaffe's marketing manager is, she smiles and replies, "Me."
Arcaffe's headquarters has 19 employees who manage and provide services for the chain's branches and the production division, and also work on brand development, including quality and service control.
Arcaffe has a few strategic partnerships whose purpose is to maintain the quality of the products. In 1994, Arcaffe signed a strategic agreement with Arcaffe Italy and developed a special blend of coffee for the Israeli consumer. In 1995, Arcaffe set up its own roasting facility. And in 1997, Arcaffe's bakery was built and know-how agreements were signed with the Parisian Maison Kayser bakery and two Italian bakeries.
Arcaffe recently announced the investment of $2 million in the construction of a central production plant in Netanya. The 2,100-square meter plant will house a roasting facility, bakery and central kitchen. "The new plant will mean that we can expand our chilled and frozen baked goods operations," Shemer says, noting Arcaffe's unique self-sufficiency in providing its branches with all the products they need. "This gives us much more freedom in our development."
Arcaffe does not invest in advertising, apart from minor participation in a television advertising campaign for the Ramat Aviv mall. "We don't need advertising," explains Shemer, "because we meet with our consumers very often. Some 1,000 to 2,000 people visit each of our branches every day. We practice focused marketing because in our field, the customer's experience at the sales outlet is important."
Shemer views the opening of the Ben-Gurion 2000 project as a turning point for Arcaffe. "Our location in the departures terminal is worth more than 10 branches from the perspective of exposure to the brand. It is an opportunity for consumers from both Israel and abroad to meet Arcaffe."
The new airport terminal is due to open in 2004.
One of Shemer's future goals is to open branches of Arcaffe in New York and Europe, but she is waiting for the right business climate and the right local partner who can make such a move a success.
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Smithville Police Charge Two with Initiation of Process to Manufacture Meth
Smithville Police have charged two people with initiation of a process to manufacture meth and possession of drug paraphernalia after finding meth lab components on Snow Street.
37 year old Lynn J. Jones and 20 year old Latasha Cantrell will be in court on the charges November 3. Bond for Jones is $130,000 and $80,000 for Cantrell.
Chief Randy Caplinger reports that on Wednesda, October 26 officer Steven Barrett responded to a complaint of suspicious activity on Snow Street. Upon arrival, he saw two flashing lights in a field at the end of the street. He made contact with Jones and Cantrell and found them in possession of shovels and a pick. Some eight to ten feet away were some items identified as components commonly used in a meth lab. Sergeant Andy Snow and Officer James Cornelius arrived on the scene to assist and Detective Matt Holmes was called to investigate.
Police found a two liter bottle and a 20 ounce bottle both containing sodium hydroxide and lithium, a 20 ounce bottle half filled with muriatic acid, used hypodermic needles, a glass pill vial, and several empty packs of pseudoephedrine.
The meth lab task force was called to clean up the scene.
Meanwhile, 42 year old Elsie Mae Judkins is charged with theft of property and aggravated burglary.
Chief Caplinger reports that on Friday, September 30 Judkins allegedly broke into a home on Braswell Lane. During the investigation in October, Detective Matt Holmes discovered that a number of compact discs stolen from the home had been sold to Hastings in McMinnville. Police went there and recovered some of the cds. Judkins was identified through store video surveillance as the person who allegedly made the sale of the stolen cds to the store. She was later arrested at a residence on Anthony Avenue.
49 year old David Haug, a homeless man, is charged with criminal trespassing. His bond is $1,500 and he will be in court on December 8.
Chief Caplinger said Haug showed up at a place of business and wouldn't leave. He was asked to stay off the property. He left but later returned. Haug, originally from Idaho, was arrested on Friday, October 28
25 year old Tamara Renee Lloyd is charged with possession of drug paraphernalia. Police were called to a disturbance at a residence on Gentry Avenue on Thursday, October 27. While there, the officer found drug paraphernalia containing marijuana residue. She will be in court on November 17.
22 year old Cougar Pursley of Granville is charged with a first offense of driving under the influence. Police were called Thursday, October 27 to investigate a traffic accident on West Broad Street. Pursley, who was involved in the wreck, was found to be unsteady on his feet and he had an odor of alcohol on his person. He performed poorly on all field sobriety tasks. Pursley is under a $1,500 bond and he will be in court on November 17.
32 year old Megan Ashley Cook is charged with theft under $500 in a shoplifting incident at the Dollar General Store on Wednesday, October 26. Her bond is $1,500 and she will be in court on November 17
44 year old Carol Ann Ballinger of Lebanon is cited for theft of property in a shoplifting incident at the Dollar General Store on Tuesday, October 11. She will be in court on November 11.


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Juliette Kellow looks at research which investigates how exercise intensity effects what you eat. Researchers from the University of Ottawa4 looked at how easy and hard workouts affected the appetites of 13 women. The study found that those women who pushed themselves to the limit with high-intensity workouts ate the most after exercising; consuming more than 90 percent of the calories they'd burnt off.
time each week) and track your weight using the Tracker below. If your agency is participating in the state-wide weight loss . weight using the chart . _link_ 11 Ohsaa Wrestling Weight Certification Program OHSAA Wrestling Weight . To calculate minimum wrestling weight at 12% body . Weight Loss per Week. A weight loss limit of 1.5 percent of body weight at . _link_/sports/wr/boys/WgtManagement/AssessorHandbook%20Revised.doc 12 Corrosion Evaluations - University Of Washington The first specimen is exposed for 1 week.
We are dedicated to helping you achieve long-term weight loss success. Medically supervised weight loss is easier, faster and safer than standard diets because you are under the care of a physician throughout the course of your treatment. We can use medications and diet tools not available in commercial or self-directed diets. Most people have little or no side effects. The provider may prescribe an appetite suppressant for short-term use as part of an overall weight reduction program that also includes dieting, exercise and counseling.
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Whether it means planning your meals ahead of time so you aren't tempted to divert from your good intentions, choosing a restaurant which won't throw you off track, or planning your day to ensure you have time to work out, you really need to take these kinds of decisive steps towards meeting your weight loss goals. While it may seem anal initially, structured eating habits and exercise routines will make it easier to stick to your weight loss programme.
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Considering both calorie density and fibre together ends up being a much more useful approach. proportion of insulinogenic calories If you are insulin resistant or obese then managing the insulin load of your diet will be an important consideration. The percentage of insulinogenic calories concept builds on the food insulin index testing which demonstrates that both carbohydrates and protein require insulin.
Here is a good ab exercise i have refered to before. _link_/abs.htm 03-19-2009, 04:54 PM #10 Location: United Kingdom (Great Britain) Age: 24 Posts: 10,915 Rep Power: 3725 I heard Junior Bacon Cheeseburgers are better. Mmmm I can feel my arterys clogging up already 03-19-2009, 05:03 PM #12 Posts: 1,083 Rep Power: 94 dude you need to eat alot more than that because your abs have to grow just like any other muscle they need fuel and rest.if you do alot of cardio you shouldnt be worried about fat lost but you should be worried about fueling your muscles instead.
It will also help to reduce your cravings for foods you know should be avoiding (the ones we all like best – full of sugar and fat! ), and because you are less hungry it will be easier for you to make sensible food choices and stick to your diet plan. » Fat Burner & Metabolism Booster Next it helps your body to burn fat. It includes L-Carnitine a popular fat burning ingredient, which is said to mimic your natural HCG, aiding the release of stored fat into energy for your body to burn your existing fat stores faster.
What Is The Best Food Supplement For Weight Loss In usual condition, men actually should get their aim of about five% because their ideal excess fat percentage What is the best food supplement for weight loss although that holds wonderful as 15% in girls. If you are in rather reasonable form, capture for two minutes for each leg. Every single metabolic process of the body system has to go through teaching for the result you desire, and that is your responsibility.
Examples: EPO, CERA. Blood doping is the practice of drawing and saving your own blood, allowing your body to replenish your blood supply, and then adding your own blood back to provide increased oxygen carrying capacity, much like with EPO doping. Diuretics and Other Masking Agents When you take steroids and other drugs they inevitably leave a trail that testers can find. One way to attempt to avoid this is to use another agent that increases urine output that might excrete traces of the banned drug.
Like, if I had a dress to fit into in 4 days or something and HAD to drop weight quickly I would probably restrict carbs just to drop water weight on the fly. But. as a life decision. bad bad bad! God help you when you touch carbs again though. You'll feel like you're on the world's fastest weight-gain program. :( Why don't you try something you can incorporate into your lifestyle, for the rest of your life?
If carefully supervised, very low-calorie meal replacements may be suitable for some people with obesity, at least as an initial measure, but they are not a long-term solution. The NHS Choices weight loss plan uses a combination of not just diet, but also exercise and lifestyle changes, to achieve sustainable and prolonged weight loss. Where did the story come from? The study was carried out by researchers from the University of Melbourne and La Trobe University, Australia.
Love! Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Bell Peppers - Wake up the natural flavors in your food with Ac'cent - _link_ #accentflavor #philly #cheese #steak #bellpeppers Low carb! .although I would definitely use steak not deli meat Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Bell Peppers * This is a wonderful alternative to the more traditional type. I added some sauteed onions and I also added some Italian spice mix. Fabulous recipe.
There still are real risks with hormone therapy that you and your doctor need to discuss and weigh against any potential benefits, MidMichigan Health states. There is no indication to use hormone replacement therapy to prevent weight gain or to help with weight loss in menopause. "The most successful strategy is preventing weight gain in the first place," Morse said. "Unfortunately, this often does not happen.
i need to figure out how! cuz i am having a hard time getting all my hair up in a bun with all the short layers. #greem #greenjuice #greensmoothies #vegetablejuice #juices #smoothies #juiceguide #guide #healthyjuice _link_/smoothie-diet.html Juice smoothie diet plan frequently asked questions and data. The health advantages are no hesitation countless simply because of the fresh fruits you are likely to ingest, but are healthy smoothie eating plans beneficial to drop pounds?


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2011-10-21 - After concerts in this year's spring, summer and autumn, there's only a winter tour missing to end the DORO-year 2011 appropriately – and this tour's coming now!
"Winter In Rock"
08.12.11 GER Saarbrücken Garage
09.12.11 GER Aschaffenburg Colos Saal
10.12.11 GER München Backstage Werk
11.12.11 GER Hannover Capitol
13.12.11 GER Fulda Kreuz
14.12.11 GER Nürnberg Hirsch
16.12.11 GER Osnabrück Rosenhof
17.12.11 GER Herxheim Festhalle
18.12.11 GER Hamburg Docks
|Linked bands
DORO - German album "Für Immer" out tomorrow!
2017-10-26 17:30 - The day has almost come: Metal queen DORO will release her first German album titled »Für Immer«, tomorrow via her own label, Rare Diamonds Productions. Details
DORO - 'Strong & Proud' tour dates 2017!
2017-01-23 12:15 - It's a long lasting tradition that at the end of the year, DORO always tours around Germany. In 2017, the metal queen will kick off some live shows in her homeland once again. Details
DORO - pays tribute to Lemmy with new video!
2016-12-28 12:30 - A year ago to the day, MOTÖRHEAD fronter and rock legend Lemmy Kilmister passed away and his death marked the end of an era of sex, drugs and rock'n'roll. Details
AVANTASIA + DORO - to appear on (RTL)!
2016-11-28 16:00 - AVANTASIA mastermind Tobias Sammet and his long-time music colleague the Queen of Metal DORO PESCH will soon rock the "Ultimative Chartshow" on german channel RTL! Details
DORO - European tour kicks off next week!
2016-11-17 12:00 - The metal queen, DORO, recently played a bunch of US shows. But before the tour comes to an end, she will return to European stages for another 15-show trek. Details
DORO - announces special guests for tour!
2016-08-15 18:00 - The European leg of her »Love's Gone To Hell«-Tour starts on November 24th in Leiden (Netherlands) and ends on December 14th in Cologne. DORO is happy to announce the support! Details
DORO - enters the charts worldwide!
2016-07-05 18:00 - NUCLEAR BLAST is proud to announce, that today, DORO Pesch's brand new anniversary-CD/DVD "Strong And Proud - 30 Years Of Rock And Metal" entered the charts worldwide! Details
DORO - »Strong And Proud" out now!
2016-06-24 10:00 - Metal Queen DORO releases her brand-new 2Blu-ray/3DVD+CD package entitled »Strong And Proud - 30 Years Of Rock And Metal«, today through Nuclear Blast. Details
DORO - 'Earthshaker Rock' live clip revealed!
2016-06-17 10:30 - The metal Queen, DORO has released the new live clip, 'Earthshaker Rock' (live @ Wacken) from her upcoming 2Blu-ray/3DVD+CD package »Strong And Proud"! Details
DORO - second trailer released!
2016-06-10 18:45 - After the presentation of three live clips, another trailer has been launched today. Details


text: It all happened just a week back when due to shift in my personal status, I had to make a decision to buy a car and with the 'year-end' offers thrust on the consumer by most of the brands, I knew I had very less time in my hands. Had my eye on the Linea for quite some time and one fine Morning took my parents to VST Motors to show them this beauty. Rest is history. Booked the car in 2 hours within my visit to the showroom. It was love at first sight for my family. I am proud that I made this decision to buy a Fiat monster as my Dad's first car itself was a Fiat Premier Padmini. Its in the genes, I guess. My name is Shiva and am from Chennai. Am a denstist by profession. Looking forward to a long tie on this forum. Regards, Shiva


text:
My Nonprofit Reviews
Review for Bay Area Legal Aid, Oakland, CA, USA
We are a low income family rented an apartment that was horribly infested with fleas. Our landlord refused to provide us with a clean apartment to temporarily stay while waiting for the pet control spray causing us to be homeless for nearly 2 months while still having to pay for the rent. We have come to Bay Area Legal Aid in San Jose, CA and got all the help from the staff to get justice done. My family and I would like to thank Bay Area Legal Aid Team for their support and hard work to bring a result to my case. We went to court and got a very good result. Without help from Bay Area Legal Aid, poor family like us would not stand a chance against those big corporation who do not do the right things.
More Feedback
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
dealing with legal matters such as discriminating against people who do not have the money to pay the full amount of rent and are subsidized by the Housing Section 8 Program
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Donate money for the organization.


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Claudia Kawczynska
Claudia Kawczynska is The Bark's co-founder and Editor-in-Chief.
News: Editors
Prompting Investigation for Animal Cruelty
Posted by
March 11 2016
Our colleague, Mark Derr's "Dog's Best Friend" blog looks at an alarming program from Cesar 911 (National Geographic Wild). Seems as if the controversy surrounding Cesar Millan lives on, but this time his total disregard of how his misguided and irresponsible "beliefs" about animal behavior and dog training have resulted in other animals being harmed. It is truly unconscionable that National Geographic, that purports to be a family oriented network, would allow this animal abuse to happen and then to actually televise it. Trying to get a dog to be a "friend" to pet pigs by leashing them together and then the dog running amuck injuring the pigs certainly should not be considered to be suitable or entertaining programming. As for Millan, as dog lovers should be aware of by now, just about every animal behaviorist and veterinarians worldwide have denounced his methods and teachings. National Geographic needs to hear from us about this latest abusive behavior. There is a Change petition that is being circulated.
LATEST NEWS: Cesar Millan is now being investigated for possible animal abuse on this matter.
Here is Mark Derr's post:
[Note: The video clip of the Cesar 911 episode to which this posting refers appears to have been removed from public viewing on YouTube. A partial clip and commentary can be found here(link is external).]
On March 7, staff writer Christian Cotroneo reported for The Dodo, the website devoted to "the love of animals" on Cesar Millan's "worst dog-training idea, ever," that is, a particularly demented plan to reform a pig-killing French bulldog by giving him a "positivememory" with pigs upon which he can build a less lethal relationship with all other life forms. Millan, the self-proclaimed dog whisperer who has attained cult status by showing hapless dog owners how to become "pack leaders" by giving their animals "discipline" before "affection," has raised the hackles of serious animal behaviorists and dog trainers even before his program first aired on the National Geographic channel in 2003. Since then he has become a one-man conglomerate, with spin-off television programs, a magazine, best-selling books, and a hugely successful website.
But all along, he has had his critics, including me, as most readers of this blog know. In 2006, I wrote an op-ed for The New York Times criticizing Millan's approach to training and his antiquated view of dominance hierarchies. Other critiques have followed, including a number of essays by my fellow Psychology Today blogger Marc Bekoff and protests from the leading animal behaviorists in the country. Criticism of Millan routinely draws vitriolic, sometimes threatening, responses from his followers.
The current controversy surrounding Milllan focuses on an episode from his new program Cesar 911, in which he addresses problem cases. The clip was posted on You Tube on February 25 and has raised a ruckus in social media said Cotroneo in his response to the show. (A noted above, the clips have largely been removed from public view.) In the episode, Millan puts a pig-killing French bulldog into a fenced training area stocked with pigs with the intent that he will learn not to attack but to love pigs. While on a long line—an extended lead—held by Millan, the dog seems fine, but when his human companion unlooses him on Millan's order, Simon turns demonic. He rips one pig's ear. He escapes Millan's desperate lunges—"I've got it," the dog whisperer says at one point. At another, as Millan tumbles to the ground gasping for air, he mutters, "This is teaching."
But what is taught and what is learned? Certainly the best learning outcome would be for National Geographic to take a stand for dogs, pigs, and other animals and remove Cesar Millan from the air until he reforms his act.
Used with permission of Mark Derr.
News: Editors
Posted by
February 28 2016
We just read a wonderful story about another inventive and humane way to save shelter dogs and to showcase their many charms and talents. This story is from the Brazil Open tennis tournament being held in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Shelter dogs Frida, Costela, Mel and Isabelle, all sporting orange bandannas, wowed the onlookers by their ball "handling" abilities. In their previous life these four ball-dogs were street dogs in Brazil largest city. But now, as trained by Andrea Beckert, from the Association of Animal Wellbeing, they are retrieving the out-of-bounds tennis balls, and bringing them back, joyfully, to their trainer and, at times, to the players.
As Beckert noted—she trained them for months before this appearance—they were hoping to make the animals more confident and playful to "win" attention and hopefully new homes. "These are dogs that were mistreated. We have to make them adapt, feel the environment, the court, the noise of the balls and the noise of the people. Some are doing well, others are still a little scared," she related. The basic commands that the dogs learned were 'pick the ball,' 'let it go,' 'stay' and 'come.'"
All four still live in the shelter, said Marli Scaramella, the organizer of the ball-dog program, "The idea is to show people that a well-fed and well-treated animal can be very happy. We have more than 1,000 dogs in our care," she said. Let's hope this worked and will inspire other sporting events in other countries.
Wellness: Healthy Living
Posted by
February 24 2016
Winter not only keeps us inside, it's also a time of food-centric holiday celebrations. How can we share the fun with our dogs without packing pounds on them? When you want to get the facts, you go to the pros, and for an answer to this question, we checked in with Julie Churchill, DVM, PhD, ACVN and associate professor of nutrition at the University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center. Her general advice is that we be mindful of our dogs' daily caloric needs and their total intake. (More on this in a future issue.) Dr. Churchill also shared a few tips.
> Go for frequency, not volume, and choose either very small treats (pinkie fingernail-size) or ones that can be broken into small pieces.
> Look for tasty low-cal alternatives; if your dog likes likes raw fruit and veg —carrots, celery, green beans, cucumbers, apples, blueberries—keep a ready-to-eat supply on hand.
> Unsalted, unbuttered popcorn provides lots of bang for its caloric buck; there are only 20 calories in a popped cup, and a cup goes a long way, especially when scattered around for the dog to find.
We saved the really big question for last. How do we resist those soulful eyes as we eat our turkey sandwiches and our special holiday cookies? Dr. Churchill advises that if we're going to cave, we should do it with the lowest-calorie treat. It's also important to avoid reinforcing begging (do your best!) and to preserve our dog's routine. Dr. Churchill's final takeaway: Dogs choose joy, and the time we spend with our dogs means more to them than food. Carve out time to make some joyful memories.
Culture: Science & History
Robert Weintraub talks about Judy, a remarkable dog
Posted by
February 22 2016
We recently talked with Robert Weintraub, author of No Better Friend, our favorite book of 2015. This remarkable story about Judy, the only canine POW of World War II, has won the praise of many critics, and was selected, too, by NPR's Maureen Corrigan as one of last year's best. This inspiring (and harrowing) story reminds us just how inimitable our bond is with dogs.
Q: No Better Friend is certainly an apt title for a book about an amazing dog and the intense bonds she shared with the people in her life. What made you decide on this title?
A: Well, in all honesty, the marketing department at Little, Brown went through a whole host of options before we settled on this. But No Better Friend, I thought, captured Judy's incredible loyalty and unique comradeship with the servicemen, both before and during her imprisonment. She took the saw, "man's best friend," to a whole new level.
Q: What inspired you to write about this subject—not just Judy, but also, WWII POWs and the Pacific theater?
A: Once I discovered Judy's story, I knew I would have to capture the larger picture of her fellow prisoners, Frank Williams in particular. That led me to the fall of Singapore and the mad dash to Sumatra amid total Japanese domination in the South China Sea. Had Judy been in France, of course, I would have told that story, so in a sense, she took me to the Pacific. But despite their intense deprivations, the POWs of Sumatra have been largely ignored by history, so I was rather glad to be able to shine a light on a subsection of WWII that was more shadowy than others.
Q: You come from a sports journalism background—is there anything from that perspective that especially drew you to Judy's story?
A: Certainly the qualities that draw people (including me) to sports—performance under duress, teamwork, strength of character—were fully on display in this story. The POWs, including (and especially) Judy, got one another through the worst possible times. They shared food despite not having enough for themselves. They put themselves in harm's way to prevent fellow prisoners from taking beatings from the guards. They nursed one another through terrible disease and suffering. Judy and her fellow POWs rose above the nadir of humanity to display the best qualities humans have to offer. Obviously, the stakes were far higher than in any sporting contest, but the characteristics were similar, just writ large.
Q: It's difficult to read about this period in history—about a war waged against a country that practiced extreme mistreatment of captives, unhindered by the Geneva convention. It makes stories about survivors like Judy and Frank Williams even more startling, and the details of what they, and many others, went through as POWs that much harder to digest. That must have been very challenging as you researched the topic.
A: I considered myself something of a buff on military history, WWII in particular, even before I began the research, but nothing prepares you for firsthand accounts of the brutality and shocking inhumanity of the camps. The legacy of the German concentration camps somewhat obscures the horrors in the Japanese camps, at least to the average person, so I thought it was important not to shy away from the terror tactics and sadistic barbarity practiced by the Japanese (and their Korean lackeys). In the course of writing, I found that any temptation I had to ease up on the worst of the offenses was offset by admiration for the POWs and Judy's ability to withstand them. So my perspective tilted; I actually wanted to highlight the atrocities, for they presented Judy and her friend's courage and endurance in greater relief.
Q: I tagged more pages in this book than in most that I review. Judy demonstrated so many instances of valor, intelligence, loyalty and, at times, cunning. Which ones stand out for you?
A: Yes, Judy made the exceptional look almost routine. Before she was even taken prisoner, she had several amazing episodes. At one point she took to guiding a small band of shipwreck survivors across the Sumatran interior in a quest for escape, through a deep rainforest thick with insects, mud and predators. Judy was actually slashed by a crocodile during this long march, but kept to her station as ranger, leading the group to (perceived) safety on the opposite coast.
There was the time when she was being transported by Japanese prison ship and the boat was sunk by a torpedo. She narrowly escaped, and once in the water, went about saving the lives of flailing shipmates instead of worrying for her own safety. In the camps, she repeatedly threw herself at guards in order to distract them from beating up fellow prisoners. One time she was shot and slightly wounded while thrusting herself between attacker and prey. Judy obviously put herself in grave danger during these episodes. But she continued to stand up for her fellow POWs right until liberation. Hers was truly a story not just of survival, but also of spirited resistance.
Q: What do you think made Judy so exceptional? As I read this book, I looked at my dogs and wondered what they would have done in the same circumstances. Do you have a dog?
A: We have young children, so we are waiting until they are a bit older before we get a dog of our own. But I grew up with a very loyal, very spirited Golden Retriever. Although he wasn't nearly as intelligent as Judy, I like to think that he would have displayed the same courage and stamina. I don't know that it's possible to compare an average domestic canine with Judy, however. While she wasn't a trained military dog, she was a mascot on a navy ship from a very young age, and was baptized to the sights and sounds (and smells!) of war, as well as death and destruction. Even before that, as a very young pup, she escaped from her kennel and survived on the streets of Shanghai for months before being brought home again. Clearly, this was a dog with something special inside her; an essential piece of her welcomed action and adventure, and when she faced the worst, she rose above it.
Q: What do you think it is about dogs that draws people like Frank Williams to the realization that, as you write, "His love for her was noble"?
A: Clearly, we recognized dogs' special kinship with us at some point in their transition from wild animal to domesticated friend. In Frank's case specifically, I was putting his love and loyalty to Judy in the context of his experience during the war. He was captured early on without putting up much of a fight (he was a radar technician in the Royal Air Force). After years of awful treatment in the camps, he had every reason to give up and let death take him, as so many other prisoners did. But Judy's battling example shook him from his lethargy, and instilled in him the seed to fight on, survive each day, and put faith in a better time ahead. In exchange, he shared every bit of devotion he had with Judy, even risking his life to procure official POW status for her. In the worst situation imaginable, even worse than the war itself, Frank found the nobility that had eluded him while he was a free man. That was thanks to a dog—a special dog, true. But the qualities all dogs bring out in people is what makes our relationship with them so remarkable.
Q: I understand that a young readers' version will be out soon. How did you recast the story to make it appropriate for that age group without diminishing its essence?
A: That version will be out on May 3, thank you for mentioning that! It was a difficult task to rework the narrative for younger readers, in part because I had never done it before, and in part because of the material. I had to walk a fine line between highlighting the inhumanity of the camps, which made Judy and Frank's bond so special, without overplaying the brutality. I also found it necessary to trim much of the surrounding historical material in order to concentrate on the story at the heart of the book, the relationship between Judy and Frank. Not to worry, however; a series of sidebars provides historical context while not diverting the main narrative.
Q: What do you hope younger readers learn from your book?
A: I hope kids everywhere, including Asia (there is a Chinese edition), learn that love, loyalty and friendship are unconquerable, no matter how horrifying the surrounding conditions. And that while humans are forever finding ways to treat one another badly, the special relationships we have with dogs can transcend the often-shaky relationships we have with each other.
For more see our review of No Better Friend, plus an excerpt from the book.
Wellness: Healthy Living
Q&A with Dr. Robynne Chutkan
Posted by
February 22 2016
Dr. Robynne Chutkan, one of the leading gastroenterologists in the country, is the author of a new book, The Microbiome Solution, in which she takes us on an exploration of our guts' ecosystems. Her rousing endorsement of "living dirty" includes the benefits of living with dogs. Bark's editor speaks with her about just how helpful dogs are to our health, inside and out.
Is it true that there are similarities between our microbiome and those of our dogs, and that dog-owning families have more diverse microbial colonies than dogless households?
Although we share many of the same microbes, dogs in general have a more diverse microbiome than we do. Not surprisingly, some of their additional species are soil microbes (rolling in the dirt from time to time may be a habit worth copying!). Close contact with our dogs is hard to avoid, and that's a good thing, because they end up passing on some of their unique microbes to their owners, giving dog-owning households a microbial boost.
Dog owners who have children share more mouth bacteria with their dogs than they do with their children. Is this a good thing?
The microbiome in children under the age of three is still developing and as a result, is very different from that of an adult, although there are still lots of shared species with household members (and pets), given the proclivity children have for [putting] everything in their mouths. So, most adults (not just dog owners) have a very different microbiome from their young children. As children get older, their microbiome starts to more closely resemble that of the other household members—not just parents, but pets, too. The vast majority of microbes our canines pass on to us are helpful or benign, not harmful, so keep those doggie kisses going.
So bacteria aren't species-specific? Is that why, as you note, owning a dog is a highly effective way to replenish and revive bacteria that are basically under attack by modern-day living?
Some bacteria are species-specific, but many are shared by both humans and dogs. Most dogs are much more in touch with the natural world than their owners are, and that's exactly where lots of the health-promoting microbes come from: soil; unfiltered, unchlorinated water; and, of course, the poo of other animals that our dogs are constantly checking out. Dogs tend to go easy on the hand sanitizer and antibiotics and eat a less processed diet (all habits worth emulating), so they haven't super-sanitized away as many of their microbes as we have. Some of these canine microbes can be passed on to us, helping to replenish our lackluster microbiome.
The high-fat, low-fiber food we eat, attracts a different range of microbial types; do you know if that is the same for dogs?
I'm not aware of any specific studies looking at variations in canine diets and the effects on their microbiome, but certainly, dogs who eat more processed grains and other foods not natural to their diet tend to have more health problems, and the same is true for humans.
You mention that it's okay to be a little dirty and sweaty. Why do you think Americans are so obsessed with being hyper-clean?
In the pre-antibiotic era, epidemics of the plague, cholera and other highly infectious diseases wiped out vast numbers of people. The advent of penicillin in the 1930s is still one of the most important contributions to modern medicine, and antibiotics have saved countless lives. But now the pendulum has swung the other way; we're currently in an era of overdiagnosis and over-treatment, and we're seeing the emergence of new "modern plagues," not from infection, but from not enough microbes.
However, the public still sees antibiotics as the life-saving miracle workers they were in the first part of the last century, not as the overprescribed menace they're becoming. Plus, 80 percent of all antibiotics sold in the U.S. are used in the livestock industry, mostly to fatten animals for slaughter. Clearly, that's not a lifesaving endeavor.
I think the pharmaceutical and personal-product companies also have a lot to do with it. They're responsible for many of the public-health campaigns that incorrectly equate cleanliness with health, and of course, they make billions of dollars selling hand sanitizer and other anti-bacterial products.
It's not just okay to be a little sweaty and dirty, it's great for your microbiome and your overall health. We need exposure to dirt and germs (bacteria, fungi, protozoa and so forth) to train our immune systems to recognize friend from foe. Not enough exposure to germs, especially when we're young, leads to a confused immune system that tends to overreact. The result is allergies and autoimmune diseases.
In defense of less bathing and shampooing: your body is really good at concocting the exact formula needed to keep your skin and hair moisturized and healthy. But what do we do? We scrub away our natural oils with harmful antibacterial products and then try to revive our skin and hair with store-bought products full of chemicals. Live dirty for a healthier— and better looking—you!
Many studies have shown the benefits to children of having a dog, including a decrease in eczema and asthma. Why else would you recommend that a family get a dog?
Having a dog is great for reducing stress and anxiety and lowering blood pressure. And we already know they improve the microbiome of the entire household.
What's your personal dog "biome"?
My mother's bridge partner, Eva, worked for the Swedish embassy, and when she moved back to Sweden, she left her beloved German Shepherd, Trygg, with us. He'd been used to spending all his time with Eva, and became immediately attached to my mom. We had to be super vigilant in the bathroom because he loved to drink from toilets (all kinds of rewilding going on!).
Hugo, our German Shorthaired Pointer puppy, came into our lives about six months ago. Getting a dog forced me to slow down my too-busy lifestyle and spend more time sitting on my front steps, stroking Hugo and literally smelling the roses. He's super active, so my husband and I take turns running with him in the mornings and evenings.
We live near Rock Creek Park in Washington, DC, so, thanks to Hugo, there's a whole lot of dirt and sweat happening on a daily basis. Our daughter Sydney loves him so much that we really can't imagine life without him.
Hugo slobbers over everyone he comes into contact with, and since I frequently have meetings with the Gutbliss team at our house, he's become our CRO—Chief Rewilding Officer!
Culture: Reviews
One Man, One Dog, and Their Extraordinary Story of Courage and Survival in WWII
Posted by
February 19 2016
There's no denying it: war is hell. In No Better Friend by Robert Weintraub, we once again are confronted by the god-awful truth behind that expression. But we also learn about the true nature of grit, resiliency, courage and, in this case, the strength of the bond between man and dog.
This inspirational story revolves around an English Pointer born in 1936 in Shanghai, who became a mascot on one of the many English gunboats that patrolled the Yangtze River. At first called Shudi, Chinese for peaceful, she became Judy, and was adopted by the crew of the Royal Navy's HMS Gnat.
Although the crew hoped that Judy would be a good hunting companion, it quickly became clear that her talents didn't lie in that direction. But she was able to put her alertness, intelligence and intense drive to use by barking alarms at sewer ships ("cess boats") and river pirates—even defending against onboard invaders. After 1937 and the outbreak of the Second Sino-Japanese War, she ratcheted up her early-warning system, signaling when fighter planes were approaching.
How she became the war's only official canine POW is a long story, and one best left for readers to discover for themselves. Suffice it to say that Judy, who was, as Weintraub describes, "a fiercely loyal dog, with a keen sense for who was friend and who was foe," performed many memorable feats (see excerpt).
After Singapore fell to the Japanese, she dug up a life-saving fresh water source for those who were marooned on a barren atoll, and led soldiers (including Frank Williams, who became her chief caregiver and companion) on a dangerous march across Sumatra. Once she and the soldiers had been captured and interned in a Japanese POW camp, she found rodents, snakes and other creatures to help feed herself and her fellow captives. For four horrible years, she and the other prisoners were kept under barbaric conditions. Judy had numerous near-misses with guards who wanted to kill (and eat) her; it's amazing that anyone, much less a dog, survived such treatment.
Williams and hundreds of other prisoners (all of whom were slowly starving to death) were forced to build a railroad by hand. As Weintraub noted, "Judy's mere presence on the railway rallied men who had been pushed beyond the brink." One prisoner penned a quatrain to memorialize the men's feelings for this heroine dog, and his words summed up their sentiment perfectly: "They would stagger to their workplace/Though they really ought to die/And would mutter in their beards/If that bitch can, so can I."
Weintraub's compelling, well-researched book does justice to the remarkable Judy and the men whose stories he tells so effectively and poignantly. Theirs is truly one of the great sagas of WWII and I highly recommend it to everyone. (A younger readers' version is due out soon—keep an eye out for it.)
For more see our conversation with the author, Robert Weintraub and an excerpt from the book.
Culture: DogPatch
Message from the Editor
Posted by
February 19 2016
The first issue of what would become The Bark came out in 1997, which makes this our 19th year. It's hard to believe we've lasted this long. In the beginning, Bark was a humble community newsletter drumming up support for an off-leash area in Berkeley. We had no intention of transforming it into a full-fledged magazine.
But, as they say, timing is everything. While publications aplenty focused on what's called the dog "fancy," there was a noticeable gap in the larger area of everyday life with dogs—what has come to be called dog culture. Bark stepped in to fill it and, in many ways, defined it.
For dogs and the people who love them, things have evolved in many interesting directions over the last 19 years. Most of the changes have been for the better.
On the science front, researchers across a number of disciplines are expanding our understanding of the canine mind, the domestication process and how our two species co-evolved. More humane and science-based training methods have come to the forefront, as have increasingly sophisticated and well-informed behavior-modification strategies. Advances in veterinary medicine and health care include an increased validation of alternative modalities.
Then there's food, which always provokes a lively discussion. In the commercial food sector, a greater variety of ingredients can be found, along with different delivery systems —dehydrated, freeze-dried, raw-prepared—many of them healthier than they were 19 years ago. The industry also has paid attention (to some extent) to consumer's post-2007 food-recall concerns, but there is a still a long way to go on that front, and greater transparency is still needed. In the DIY sector, there's a growing interest in angst-free home-prepared meals that can be as balanced and nutritious as packaged varieties.
Many of Dog Nation's greatest strides have come in the increasing social acceptance and understanding of the role of dogs in communities—not just in the lives of dog lovers, but in the lives of people in general. For example, we're seeing more dog-friendly housing opportunities (some with amenities), dog parks, off-leash recreation options, day care centers and professional services. There's a canine sport for every type of dog, and people are actively interested in supplying dogs with enrichment activities. Hotels and resorts are eager to attract the growing number of people who travel with their co-pilots. In literature, a flood tide of books, both fiction and nonfiction, explore our oldest friendship, and filmmakers and other inventive artists recognize and pay homage to our favorite muses.
In another healthy sign of progress, there are fewer dog race tracks, which are now legal in only six states. This bodes well for Greyhounds, who can retire and live their lives as the elegant companions they were meant to be.
In the digital world, Petfinder and similar sites have revolutionized the way we locate the dog of our dreams and, by extension, meet up with others of similar dog-centric interests. A plethora of apps and gadgets promise what seems like hands-free pet care, and a few may prove to be helpful in enriching the lives of workday-home-alone dogs.
Dogs have many talents, more of which are being tapped for a wider variety of guide and assistance work; many jobs can't be done—or done as well—without them. It's also inspiring that canine rehabilitation and training are taking place in unlikely venues, such as prisons and juvenile institutions.
The best development of all, however, is that mixed-breeds are now number one in the nation, most of them likely to have been adopted from a rescue group or shelter. People are beginning to understand how important it is to be part of the solution by adopting rather than buying, to opening their homes and hearts to shelter dogs. Shelters also have come a long way since 1997, with many of them offering state-of-the art care and accommodations and paying greater attention to enriching the lives of their charges: organizing play groups and innovative volunteer, foster and walking programs, and working collaboratively with local rescue groups. Burgeoning rescue and sanctuary movements, including the transport of animals both within the country and internationally, are inspiring to behold.
As editor-in-chief of The Bark, when I look back at the past two decades, I can truly say that there have been more positive advances in Dog Nation than in most other areas of our society. But while we celebrate these developments, I must also caution that there is a still a long way to go. The number of Beagles and other dogs being bred for and used in labs—living out their entire lives in cages—remains a blot on the landscape; there really has to be a better and more humane alternative. And there must be an end to the needless deaths of animals in shelters, and to animal abuse and cruelty.
That being said, I'm proud to be in a position to keep tabs on these situations, and to report on them to you. My hope is that by chronicling what's going on, and shining a light on areas that still need work, we (the magazine and our readers) can inspire policy- and decision-makers to step up and make the changes needed to push that progress along. We would love to hear your thoughts on this.
Good Dog: Activities & Sports
Posted by
February 16 2016
Behaviorist Patricia McConnell has observed that when it comes to dogs and people, "play isn't what makes our relationship with each other better, play is what creates the relationship in the first place." With that in mind, recent findings of a Bristol University survey are worrying: most of the 4,000 respondents simply didn't spend enough time playing with their dogs. The UK-based study also found a clear link between "limited playtime and animal behavior problems, such as being nervous when left alone, disobedience and snapping at other animals."
Others have taken note of the role of play in our dogs' lives as well. Marc Bekoff, one of the leading scientists of animal play, has said, "We train too much and play too little. … Whenever you are playing together, you and your dog learn the most important rules of social interaction: mutual trust, accepting the limitations of the other individual and dealing fairly with each other."
Play is also ripe with opportunities for shared joy. As Mechtild Käufer, author of Canine Play Behavior, writes, during play, you and your dog experience "moments in which two species— human and dog—really become one."
So, how does all this research and insight play out (no pun intended) in real life? Here are some data points to keep in mind.
> Play develops trust and increases the degree and amount of attention your dog will pay to you. (Particularly if you let your dog win occasionally, including when playing tug.)
> It also develops communication. To get your dog's attention, hold a toy out in front of you, slap both hands on the ground, play bow or make a quick forward movement.
> Dogs will play longer with humans than with other dogs; they're also less competitive and will both present and surrender toys to the human more frequently.
> Play signals given by humans are more likely to elicit a response when accompanied by play vocalizations.
> Dogs in multi-dog households are more (rather than less) interested in playing with humans.
> Dogs who frequently play rough-and-tumble games with their humans have fewer problems with separation anxiety and are more self-confident.
> Dogs score higher in "obedient attentiveness" after play sessions than before the sessions, according to researchers Nicola Rooney and John Bradshaw, which suggests that training after play can be highly effective.
> They call it "play" because it's not goal-oriented. Try not to focus on winning ribbons or breaking records—in that case, it's more like work, and the positive aspects disappear.
So, what are you waiting for? Go have a romp with your dog!
For more on this fascinating topic, add Canine Play Behavior by Mechtild Käufer and Play Together, Stay Together by Karen B. London and Patricia B. McConnell to your reading list.
News: Editors
Posted by
February 9 2016
Even if we can't be there in person to marvel and bid, we love checking out the offerings at the annual Bonhams sale of canine art and artifacts on February 17 in New York. As is customary, there will a trove of historical paintings of pedigreed dogs, many of the hunting variety on display. Though we enjoy these paintings of faithful companions, we find the objects de canine and their fascinating back stories much more to our liking. One such highlight is a Victorian silver collar created in 1883 for a dog named Help. The shaggy black Scotch Collie was trained and handled by John Climpson, a passenger guard on the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway. The dog was equipped with a collection box, and traveled extensively throughout Britain and France from 1882 to 1889, raising money for the "Orphans Fund"—a charity that assisted children of railway workers who had died on the job. The tag on his collar was inscribed with a London address where donations would be "thankfully received & duly acknowledged." His appearances at railwaymen's meeting, fundraisers and dog show made Help a celebrity, and prompted a legion of charity-collecting dogs. The source of the dog's name? Here's a clue: Help's image appeared on badges with the slogan "Help Our Noble Railway Dog," with proceed from the sales of the badges going to orphanages. During his lifetime, Help brought in thousands of pounds sterling to aid the Orphans Fund. Upon his death in 1891, at the age of 13, a railway magazine ran a tribute: "No dog probably lived a more useful life the did 'Help.'" His lovely silver collar and tag is estimated to sell for $2,500 to $3,500.
Antique collars of historical note and belonging to celebrated dogs have become a highly prized collectible in recent years. Bonhams handled the sale in 2010, of a leather-and-brass collar that Charles Dickens used on his dog (shown above), eventually selling for the princely sum of $11,590. A few years later, a brass-and-leather collar from Joe, a sled-dog Husky who died during a 1903 expedition to Antarctica, sold for nearly $12,000 at Bonhams in London. So, hold on to those old dog collars, they may well become a family heirloom one day.
Bonhams "Dogs in Show and Field" auction is scheduled for February 17, 2016 beginning at 10 pm EST. The auction and pre-auction display is held at Bonhams' New York venue and is available for viewing and bidding online at bonhams.com.
Wellness: Food & Nutrition
Posted by
January 22 2016
What makes a "super" food? Edibles that deliver the maximum amount of nutrients with minimum calories. Humans and dogs can share several common foods that are nutritionally dense, and pack a lot of healthful benefits into a serving. These super foods help people and their pets fight disease, boost energy and maintain good health in general. They make great additions to your dog's diet—whether you feed packaged dog food or home cook meals—consider adding the nutritionally-packed components to compliment your dog's eating regime. Be sure to introduce these foods gradually and with the proper proportions, and check with your veterinarian if your dog has any dietary or health concerns.
Sweet Potatoes
Besides these, there are also many simple, fresh and wholesome food items that dogs and humans can thrive on, including apples, green beans, papaya, leafy greens, liver and hearts, eggs, oats, bananas, wheat grass, cranberries, nuts, pumpkin seeds, coconut oil, parsley, wheat germ and apple cider vinegar. For dogs, animal protein such as, chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, goat, rabbit, pork, beef, fish and venison, should be an integral part of their meals.
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I know what most bloggers do (what I should do) is make something, then post about it. Then they make something else and post about it. What I have gotten in the habit of doing is making a bunch of things, then sitting on them for a while before posting. It's easy to get behind and while I find this problematic, have I done anything remedy my terrible planning? Nope.
Anyway, back to the cookies. They're good. No, they're better than that. They are so delicious and rich and chewy and gooey that you'll flip out. And I mean flip out in a good way. Like the kind of flipping out you would do if someone was selling the LEGO Death Star on Black Friday for $10 or if for one day only Williams-Sonoma became a dollar store or if the IRS gave out free cars for completing your tax return on time.
The cookies originally are a chocolate-mint confection and I made them that way and they were great–if you like mint and chocolate together, give them a try. I made a second batch and swapped the mint for the peanut butter and ended up with what you see here. If you have a chocolate peanut butter (like super-yummy Wild Squirrel Nut Butter) kicking around in your fridge, this would be a great place for it. That is, if the spoon can make it from the jar to the bowl without a detour to your mouth. (I'm not judging, I don't think I could do it.)
- For the cookies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup Dutched cocoa powder
- Pinch kosher salt
- 1 (heaping) cup dark chocolate chips
- For the glaze:
- 2/3 cup confectioner's sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dutched cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons water
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons salted peanuts, chopped (optional)
- 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- 2. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cocoa and salt. In a larger bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer until fluffy. Add the vanilla, egg and peanut butter and mix thoroughly.
- 3. Add flour mixture to the butter mixture and mix until mostly combined. Add chocolate chips and mix until no flour remains. Use a cookie scoop or spoon and scoop balls of dough onto parchment-lined baking trays.
- 4. Bake for 12 minutes. Leave cookies on the parchment and move the parchment to a cooling rack.
- 5. In a small saucepan, whisk all ingredients until combined and heated through. Drizzle with a fork or spoon over cooled cookies. Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the cookies to garnish, if using.
- 6. Store uneaten cookies in an air-tight container. Use leftover glaze as an ice cream topping.
Adapted from Nigella Lawson's "Chocolate Mint Cookies" http://www.nigella.com/recipes/view/chocolate-mint-cookies-46
So I'm asking for your help blogger friends, how do you stay on schedule with your posts? And to my non-blogger friends, what are your staying-on-schedule tricks for real life?


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Review: fast and efficient service
What a superb service from Yourspares, I searched the yourspares website for the Hotpoint spares I required, and that was straigtforward. I then placed my order on Feb 4, received acknowledgement of despatch on the 5th, and they were delivered at 0835 today (6th Feb).
Excellent, Well done Yourspares team
06 Feb 2013 by Bill
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