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© ® The Nobel Foundation
IPCC honoured with the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize
Phone: +41-22-730-8208/84 e-mail:
Asia's total cereal production more than tripled
between 1961 and 1999, from 329.5 to nearly 1,025.8 Mt; the increase in harvest
area was only marginal (from 271.8 to 324.5 Mha) during this period. Rice paddy
production in Asia jumped from 198.7 to 533.5 Mt while the harvest area increased
from 106.9 Mha in 1961 to 136.5 Mha in 1999. Similarly, wheat production in
Asia increased from 45.8 to 261.7 Mt while the harvest area increased from 61.2
Mha in 1961 to 97.2 Mha in 1999. A three-fold increase in production of sugarcane
and almost five-fold increase in oil crops took place in Asia during 1961-1999.
Asian production of starchy roots also doubled during this period. Even as the
Asian population increased a little more than two-foldfrom 1.70 billion
to 3.58 billion peopleduring this time, per capita consumption of calories
in Asia has increased since the 1960s (FAO, 1999a). This improvement in the
food situation has been the consequence of an increase in production, resulting
from technological advances, that has outpaced population growth in Asia. However,
because there is a limit to the amount of arable land, while the Asian population
continues to grow, the per capita area of harvest has consistently decreased.
The population growth rate has been a primary factor in the increase in demand
for food grains in Asia. Since the mid-1980s, rapid changes in food supply and
demand structures have been observed in most developing countries. Declines
in self-sufficiency for grains have been particularly dramatic in countries
with advanced economies, such as Japan, South Korea, Taiwan (China), and Malaysia,
where the grain self-sufficiency rate has fallen below 30% in recent years.
The rapid decline in grain self-sufficiency in these countries is unprecedented
in any region of the world. Between 1970 and 1996, grain self-sufficiency fell
from 45 to 27% in Japan, from 68 to 31% in Korea, from 61 to 19% in Taiwan (China),
and from 60 to 25% in Malaysia (FAO, 1996). Declines in grain self-sufficiency
also have been observed in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka. Populous
countries such as China, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan have long maintained
grain self-sufficiency of more than 90%, but as these countries shift to industrialization
it is possible that declines will be observed there as well. In contrast, Thailand
and Vietnam, which encompass the great grain-producing regions of the Menam
and Mekong River deltas, continue to maintain better than 100% self-sufficiency
for grains.
The annual per capita consumption of meat in principal Asian countries also
has shown an upward trend in recent years. Since the 1970s, South Korea and
China have reported the most rapid increases in meat consumption. In South Korea,
per capita meat consumption grew about seven-fold, from 5.2 to 40 kg between
1970 and 1997; in China, it increased nearly five-fold, from 8.8 to 42.5 kg.
During the same period, per capita meat consumption more than doubled in Japan
(42.2 kg in 1997) and Malaysia (51.9 kg in 1997). Meat consumption in Sri Lanka,
Bangladesh, and India grew only marginally, remaining below or at 5 kg even
in 1997considerably lower than the level in east Asia. The increasing
trend in meat consumption in temperate Asia means higher demand for livestock
feed for the production of meat. Demand for this feed in Asia increased from
25.2 Mt in the 1970s to 61.2 Mt in 1980, 147.0 Mt in 1990, and 163.0 Mt in 1999.
The demand for feed grain in Asia has grown at an annual rate of about 6.6%
and has been a principal factor in the rapid increase in demand for world grain
The world is moving toward a tighter grain supply and demand, and instability
in the world grain market is rising. At the same time, Asia is becoming increasingly
dependent on the world grain market. As shown in Figure 11-8,
net grain import in Asia was 20.3 Mt in 1961; it increased to 80.9 Mt by 1998.
The continuing increase in grain imports is a result of increasing populations
and increased demand for grain that accompanies economic growth, with which
increases in grain production within the region cannot keep pace.
The impact of global warming on the international supply and demand of rice
and wheat has been evaluated by Nakagawa et al. (1997) through the use of a
partial equilibrium-type dynamic model for world supply and demand. Based on
a world rice and wheat supply and demand model and a unit harvest scenario,
the study projected that the serious impacts of global warming would be felt
as early as the year 2020. The study suggests that the early impacts will not
be so severe that humans are unable to control them. However, the gap between
supply and demand may grow in some regions of Asia, resulting in considerably
increased reliance on imports. Furthermore, the problem of short-term fluctuations
in the market because of an increased frequency of droughts, floods, and other
extreme weather events will be exacerbated, making it necessary to promote measures
to combat climate change on a global scale.
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|Jepson Flora Project: Jepson Interchange
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Jepson Interchange (more information)
©Copyright 1993 by the Regents of the University of California
Annual to tree
Leaves basal or cauline, alternate to whorled, simple to compound
Inflorescence: 1° inflorescence a head, each resembling a flower, 1many, generally arrayed in cymes, generally subtended by ± calyx-like involucre; flowers 1many per head
Flowers bisexual, unisexual, or sterile, ± small, of several types; calyx 0 or modified into pappus of bristles, scales, or awns, which is generally persistent in fruit; corolla radial or bilateral (rarely 0), lobes generally (0)45; stamens 45, anthers generally fused into cylinder around style, often appendaged at tips, bases, or both, filaments generally free, generally attached to corolla near throat; pistil 1, ovary inferior, 1-chambered, 1-seeded, style 1, branches 2, generally hair-tufted at tip, stigmas 2, generally on inside of style branches
Fruit: achene, cylindric to ovoid, generally deciduous with pappus attached
Genera in family: ± 1300 genera, 21,000 species (largest family of dicots): worldwide. Largest family in CA. Also see tribal key to CA genera: Strother 1997 Madroño 44(1):128. See glossary p. 25 for illustrations of general family characteristics.
Perennial from stout rhizome, ± dioecious
Stems erect, appearing before leaves
Leaves: basal, large, long-petioled, blades wide; cauline generally sheathing, scale-like
Inflorescence: heads disciform or weakly radiate, in raceme-like to ± flat-topped clusters; involucre ± cylindric to bell-shaped; main phyllaries in 1 series, equal; receptacle flat, naked
Pistillate flowers 0few in staminate heads, many in pistillate heads; corollas of 2 kinds, white to pale yellow, sometimes purplish, outer often with short ligules, inner cylindric
Disk flowers staminate, 0few at center of pistillate heads, many in staminate heads; corollas white to pale yellow, sometimes purplish; anther bases entire or short-sagittate, tips acute; style tips slightly thickened, entire or slightly lobed; pappus reduced
Fruit cylindric, 510-ribbed; pappus bristles many
Species in genus: 15 species: North America, Eurasia
Etymology: (Greek: broad-brimmed hat, from large leaves)
Reference: [Cronquist 1978 North America Fl II 10:174179]
Stem 26 dm
Leaves: basal blade 1040 dm wide, ± round to reniform, lobes palmate, coarsely toothed or again pinnately lobed, (sub)glabrous above, sometimes loosely tomentose below
Inflorescence: bracts 26 cm, entire to serrate, parallel-veined; heads generally 1020; involucre 59 mm, bell-shaped, often purplish; phyllaries linear
Pistillate flowers: outer corollas with tube 46 mm, ligules 27 mm, white to pale pink; inner corollas 35 mm, cylindric
Disk flowers: corollas 3.55 mm, white to pale pink
Fruit 34.5 mm; pappus 613 mm
Chromosomes: 2n=60,61,62
Ecology: Forests, generally wet soil
Elevation: < 400 m.
Bioregional distribution: Northwestern California, nw&nc Central Western California
Distribution outside California: to Alaska, ne US
Synonyms: P. p. (Aiton) A. Gray
Horticultural information: IRR or WET: 4, 5, 6, 15, 16, 17 &SHD: 7, 8, 9, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24; GRCVR (deciduous in winter); may be INV; also STBL.

subset: commoncrawl


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The peanut industry throughout the United States is undergoing major adjustment. These adjustments may include the type of peanuts grown, the selection of inputs, and certainly the way they are marketed and sold.
One of these adjustments includes the geographic areas where peanuts are grown. Growers in new areas are stepping into the peanut production arena and determining if there is a future in peanuts on their farm. The learning curve for many growers has been quite steep, but a number of growers are pleased with their initial experience.
In the North Carolina-Virginia production area we have seen a very large shift in acreage and production areas in the past two years. Production in Virginia has dipped significantly with many of the marginal peanut soils taken out of production.
The story in North Carolina has not been quite as severe, but there has been a modest decline in acreage in the typical northeastern production counties. More importantly, there has been an increased production in many of the southeastern counties that have a high percentage of good peanut soils.
These counties near the South Carolina border have followed the same pattern of increased production that we've observed in South Carolina in recent years.
The yield in many of the new areas of production in the southeastern counties has been quite good. This would be expected due to the nature of the soils and the absence of previous production in most locations. However, one question that is frequently asked is the future pest problems that will emerge or increase in importance as production continues to increase, more acres are present in specific areas, and fields are planted to peanuts again and again through the years as part of a typical rotation.
There is little question that when a "new" crop is produced in an area that has seen little acreage in the past, there is a "grace" period when pest pressure may be minimal. History has proven that in many instances pest pressure and problems will increase through time. The logic of this is relatively easy to understand. This typically applies to all pests including weeds, diseases, and insects.
What will we observe for peanut pests in North Carolina as we see a shift in some of the acreage to the southeastern counties? Most pest problems are somewhat easy to predict, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't be prepared for a surprise or two. For the purposes of this article I will stick to my area of expertise — the insects — but we will undoubtedly see shifts and increases in some weed and disease problems as well after several years of new peanut production in certain areas.
I think we will even see an impact in some of our traditional production areas of the northeastern counties in North Carolina. For example, as production in some of the heavier, "stiffer" soils is reduced, the threat from southern corn rootworm as a percentage of the total production area may actually be reduced.
In the new production areas I think we may see a shift away from the southern corn rootworm as the major soil pest of concern to new peanut growers in the southeastern counties. The lighter, sandier soils are certainly more likely to be attractive to pests such as the lesser cornstalk borer.
This pest thrives in hot dry conditions and was only a problem in the northeastern counties under some fairly severe drought conditions. It is possible that the sandier nature of the soils in a typical field in this part of the state may lend itself to more frequent problems with the lesser cornstalk borer. The threat of drought-like conditions may be more significant in these areas.
Another emerging problem that has been observed only in a few fields in North Carolina, but much more frequently in South Carolina, is the burrower bug. This pest has become a relatively consistent threat in South Carolina and as production in North Carolina shifts closer to the state line we may see more serious problems with this insect.
We will keep a close eye out for this pest as peanut acreage increases in the southeastern portion of North Carolina.
What does all this mean to peanut growers in the Virginia-Carolina production area? It means that as the dust settles on where peanuts will be grown and the production practices that are used, we may well see some changes in the pest problems we encounter. It serves as a constant reminder that nothing really stays the same and we need to be current on products and their use, current pest concerns, and constantly update our knowledge by taking advantage of educational opportunities. This always has been and will continue to be one of the secrets to success.


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Handle With Care
Make your own door and drawer pulls for a custom finishing touch on your work.
By Gary Rogowski
Pages: 36-39
From the February 2012 issue #195.
Buy the issue now.
It's the grip that counts. A limp handshake is as bad as a poorly designed handle. OK – that's a stretch. But there is something to a well-designed handle that invites you to explore a cabinet or drawer. Handles are usually the first thing that people touch on a cabinet or drawer, and it's a crucial opportunity for a designer to make a good impression. Yet handles are usually the last thing made for a piece.
WEB SITE: Visit the web site for the Northwest Woodworking Studio.
ARTICLE: Read Gary's "Jasmine Jewelry Box" article.
BLOG: Read Gary's blog.
IN OUR STORE: "New Masters of the Wooden Box," by Oscar P. Fitzgerald.
From the February 2012 issue #195.
Buy the issue now.


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WESTCHESTER COUNTY, N.Y. – While many blame Westchester County's high cost of living and lack of night life for the mass exodus of young people since 2000 – a trend known as " youth flight " – a new study links the largest losses to the lack of diversity in those communities.
The Community Housing Innovations study looked at U.S. Census data from 2000 and American Community Survey data from 2007-2011 in Westchester and Long Island. It shows the biggest loss of 25-to-34-year-olds have happened in the wealthiest communities with the least affordable housing.
They are topped by Rye at 63 percent, Pound Ridge at 58 percent, Lewisboro at 54 percent and Scarsdale at 52 percent.
The study says that greatest losses have happened in communities with an African-American population of less than five percent.
Overall, 13 percent of that age group has left the county, compared to increases of .5-percent in residents aged 35-to-44 and 57 percent in those aged 45-54, according to U.S. Census data.
The report concludes that restrictions on affordable multi-family housing threaten the regional economy.
However, Ned McCormack, spokesman for Westchester County, disagrees with the study's use and interpretation of data. He said its 5.5-percent unemployment rate is one of the lowest in the state.
"What the data tells you is that people in Westchester are having their children later," McCormack said. "That's reflected in the fact that our public schools have been growing in the last 10 years. They're up 2.5 percent overall."
It is also reflected in individuals like John Jay senior Luke Krantz of South Salem. After college, he said he would like to move to a city, but could see himself moving back to Westchester when he is older.
"It's definitely not a bad place to be," he said.
Many Westchester residents say the main reason young people leave is because it's just too expensive.
Scott Schonberg, 30, lives in Lewisboro, but plans to move to New York City once a law enforcement job comes through. Once that happens, he said, "Like everyone else, I'm gone."
Lifelong Westchester resident Eric Weintraub, 37, is moving to Florida on Saturday, saying he wants a better quality of life and fewer taxes. He grew up in Armonk and then Bedford and attended both John Jay Middle School and Fox Lane High School.
The current White Plains resident said he wants to get out before getting tied down. His friend, Brant Bloom, said he has a home in Ridgefield, Conn., that is now worth half of what he paid for it, along with a daughter in college.
"These guys are exiting because they see no future," Bloom said of those in their 20s and 30s. "They see their parents barely holding onto their homes.
"I don't think there's anything to keep young people here," he said.
The study points out that the 10 Westchester communities that have lost more than 20 percent of their 25-to-34 demographic are all named in the county's affordable housing settlement with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
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The world's most widely used drug can be beneficial for runners.
Caffeine is the most widely used drug in the world. Despite the negative connotations of the word drug, however, caffeine is by and large a benign and even beneficial substance for humans. "Acute caffeine consumption"—the scientific term for drinking a cup of coffee—has been shown to enhance mental alertness and mood state and is also known to boost athletic performance. "Chronic caffeine consumption"—the scientific term for drinking a cup of coffee every morning—has been associated with a reduced risk for a number of disorders including type 2 diabetes, gallstones, and Parkinson's disease. Not too shabby.
While moderate caffeine consumption is deemed best, even fairly high levels of regular caffeine use are not associated with any significant health risks. That said, it certainly is possible to consume too much caffeine, and some caffeine-sensitive individuals react poorly to even small amounts of the stimulant. But the bottom line is that caffeine can be boon to the runner before, during, and even after a workout or race. Here's how:


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February 11, 2013 09:00 ET
- Eighty per cent of Canadians 18-34 years old are not entirely confident in their ability to save for retirement- Many young Canadians think their parents' retirement looks better than what their own retirement will be- More than three-quarters worry about outliving their retirement savings- BMO: It's critical to start saving for retirement at an early age
- Eighty per cent of Canadians 18-34 years old are not entirely confident in their ability to save for retirement
- Many young Canadians think their parents' retirement looks better than what their own retirement will be
- More than three-quarters worry about outliving their retirement savings
- BMO: It's critical to start saving for retirement at an early age
TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Feb. 11, 2013) - A BMO Financial Group study has revealed that 80 per cent of Canadians between the ages of 18 and 34 are not very confident in their ability to save for retirement. Further, 55 per cent think they will either be unable or just equally able to achieve their ideal retirement lifestyle, compared to their parents' ability to do so.
This could be related to many young people focusing more on paying down debt than on saving for retirement. According to Statistics Canada, personal debt levels climbed to an unprecedented 164.6 per cent in the third quarter of 2012, meaning Canadians owe an average of $1.65 for every dollar of after-tax income they earn.
The BMO study revealed that almost half (46 per cent) of young Canadians are more concerned about paying down debt than saving for their retirement, with only one-in-four (24 per cent) more concerned about their retirement savings.
"While it's admirable that young Canadians are focused on reducing their debt levels, they also need to allocate some money for their retirement needs," said Janet Peddigrew, District Vice President, BMO Bank of Montreal. "By taking the time to identify both their short-term and long-term financial goals, young people can build a financial plan that works for their life now and well into the future."
What Concerns Young People About Retirement?
When asked about their biggest concerns regarding retirement, young Canadians were candid about their apprehensions:
Where Will The Money Come From?
An overwhelming 94 per cent of young Canadians believe the Canada Pension Plan will play a role in providing funding for their retirement; 91 per cent also expect to rely on their Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSP). Others think they will get the money from:
"On average, the CPP pays out approximately $500 a month, so young Canadians should not rely on it too heavily to fund their retirement," said Chris Buttigieg, Senior Manager, Wealth Planning Strategy, BMO Financial Group. "To maximize savings, Canadians should be putting away money for the long term and finding creative ways to build their retirement savings over time. For instance, a continuous savings plan allows investors to make small, regular automatic contributions to their RRSP directly from their bank account. It's a great option for young Canadians who may feel overwhelmed trying to come up with a lump sum before the annual RRSP contribution deadline."
For more information on saving for retirement, please visit www.bmo.com/retirement.
Get the latest BMO press releases via Twitter by following @BMOmedia.
The survey results cited in this release are from online interviews with a random sample of 1,000 Canadians 18 years of age and older, conducted between November 23rd and November 27th, 2012. A probability sample of this size would yield results accurate to ± 3.1 per cent, 19 times out of 20.
Media contacts:Amanda Robinson, firstname.lastname@example.com Monet, firstname.lastname@example.com Grant, email@example.com
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Alumni Mentor Program
As a UC Hastings student, you have access to one of the most successful law school mentor programs in the country. Our Alumni Mentor Program (AMP), available to currently enrolled students, offers you unparalleled opportunities to meet Hastings alumni and to explore many career options. The program operates in more than a dozen countries, so students have the opportunity to be matched with both local and geographically distant mentors.
In order to meet individual needs, the program offers considerable flexibility. Many students are not yet sure how they intend to use their law degree and find the program helps them explore a variety of career options. Students who already have plans to specialize in a specific practice area often use the program to meet practitioners in that field and learn more about the "real world" outside of law school. Others consult with mentors for practical advice on the job search process, and use the mentor program as a networking resource.
Mentors are Hastings graduates who have volunteered to answer students' questions, provide career-related advice, and help bridge the gap between the academic environment and the outside professional world. Alumni mentors may vary considerably in their individual approach to mentoring, depending on their experience, time availability, and personality. Therefore, you may wish to meet with more than one mentor in order to derive additional benefit from the program.
How does it work?
Alumni Mentor Program Director, Oscar Teran (Class of '08), serves as the liaison between Hastings students and alumni. As a Hastings alumnus himself, Oscar recruits alumni volunteers into the program and helps students select appropriate mentors. He also counsels students on all aspects of the program. In order to participate, simply attend one of Oscar's AMP Orientations. These are posted on www.HastingsCareersOnline.com (HCO) and are announced in weekly emails sent from the Student Services Office.
Hastings alumni who volunteer to mentor students are asked to complete a mentor profile form. Mentor profiles are organized by practice areas, and include the mentor's year of graduation from Hastings, name of the mentor's firm/company/organization, area(s) of specialization or expertise, as well as contact information. Some mentors also provide a résumé or a professional bio. The mentor profile offers alumni volunteers the opportunity to indicate whether there are specific communities of students (e.g. African-American, Gay/Lesbian, Parents, LEOP, "Over 30," etc.) to whom they could provide specific additional assistance.
Hastings students who would like to learn more about the program should attend an Alumni Mentor Program Orientation. After attending an orientation, schedule an individual appointment to plan how best to use the program to meet your personal goals.
The "Nuts & Bolts"
- Begin by attending a group AMP Orientation. Orientation schedules are published on HCO and the Student Services Office also sends weekly email reminders to students in the Hastings Weekly.
- After attending an Orientation, begin to review mentor profiles. Make a list of prospective mentors with whom you may wish to meet. At the very least, think about what you are looking for in a mentor – as far as practice area(s), experience, personality traits, or other characteristics.
- Next, schedule an individual appointment with Oscar Teran. (Appointments are scheduled through our front desk by calling 415-565-4619.) Bring your list of prospective mentors – or your mentor criteria, as mentioned above – and a copy of your resume to your individual appointment. Oscar will help you select specific mentors whose background and experience match your interests. You also will complete a short registration form and sign the "Program Guidelines and Agreement."
- Now it is your responsibility to schedule a meeting with the mentor(s). In a few cases, as with a geographically distant mentor, it may be more practical to speak by telephone or to communicate via e-mail.
Okay, I've chosen a mentor. Now what?
Before meeting with a mentor, take some time to think about what you hope to get out of the experience. Remember, the mentor can't read your mind. Mentors sometimes report that while a student was very likeable or impressive, the mentor wasn't sure what type of help the student sought. It is your job to ask for the information you seek. The Alumni Mentor Program Director can help if you are having difficulty articulating your mentoring objectives.


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What does Pythagoras' Theorem tell you about these angles: 90°, (45+x)° and (45-x)° in a triangle?
If a is the radius of the axle, b the radius of each ball-bearing, and c the radius of the hub, why does the number of ball bearings n determine the ratio c/a? Find a formula for c/a in terms of n.
Which is larger cos(sin x) or sin(cos x) ? Does this depend on x ?


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CHARLESTON, W.Va.: Bigger and bigger pension costs were draining the city's general fund until a new law helped the city to set aside more assets for future benefits. The city also created a new plan providing less generous benefits for new police and fire employees.
CHICAGO: The city's four pension funds were 36 percent funded as of Dec. 31, 2012, and had an unfunded liability of $19.5 billion. The city estimates that without changes, its required contribution to the funds will grow from $479.5 million in 2013 to $1.087 billion in 2015 and to $1.26 billion by 2020. Mayor Rahm Emanuel wants state lawmakers to suspend cost-of-living increases, increase employee pension contributions and give employees the option of a 401(k)-style plan.
NEW YORK: Changes to the pension system mean new workers will contribute a greater amount toward their own pension, and many workers will no longer be able to use overtime hours in the calculations of pension amounts.
OMAHA, Neb.: The city has nearly $800 million in unfunded pension liabilities, mostly because of shortfalls in the police and fire fund. New contracts will require increased pension contributions from police and firefighters and promise fewer benefits to new hires. The city hopes to fully fund its pension system by 2055.
PHILADELPHIA: The city's unfunded pension liability was $5 billion as of March — and the amount it must set aside each year has doubled in the last decade. The city has proposed creating a new hybrid plan that combines a pension with a new 401(k)-type plan for new non-uniformed employees.
PORTLAND, Ore.: A big chunk of Portland's pension system is supported by a dedicated property tax. This unusual arrangement ensures that the retirement system doesn't strain the city's day-to-day revenues.
PROVIDENCE, R.I.: With the city on the brink of bankruptcy, the mayor negotiated concessions with unions and retirees to reduce its unfunded liability of more than $900 million by nearly $180 million.


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Try our FAQ section to find helpful answers.
You can regain your certification by taking one of our exams if you meet specific requirements.
Sometimes it's also a way to save time, money & peace of mind.
Note: Because of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) publication, NCCPA will adapt its content blueprints, disease and disorder lists, and psychiatry-related terminology within test questions to conform to DSM-5 classifications and diagnostic criteria for all of our examinations beginning in 2015, according to the following timeline:
In these examinations, psychiatry-related terminology within test questions will include the DSM-5 terminology followed by the DSM-IV-TR terminology in parentheses. Example: illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis)
Based on delays in implementation of DSM-5 guidelines within the field of psychiatry, NCCPA will continue to present psychiatry-related terminology within test questions in the manner outlined above until further notice.
To view a list of some of the diseases and disorders that may appear on the Nephrology CAQ Examination, click here. Keep in mind that the list may not be all-inclusive of the topics covered on the exam.
You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to access the PDF file.


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Hedge funds and other companies seeking private investments will be allowed to advertise publicly for funding under a rule approved today by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
The rule, which passed under a 4-1 vote, is the first one mandated by last year's Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act to be completed by the SEC. A deadline for the regulation set by Congress lapsed more than a year ago.
The rule will ease 80 years of advertising restrictions intended to help ensure small investors aren't lured into taking inappropriate risks. Under the measure, startups and other small companies would also be able to use advertising to raise unlimited amounts of money.
"Given the explicit language of the JOBS Act as well as the statutory deadline which passed last July, the commission should act without any further delay," SEC Chairman Mary Jo White said. "This does not mean, however, that the commission should not take steps to pursue additional investor safeguards if and where such measures become needed."
The rule affects how companies raise money through private offerings, which are exempt from requirements to publicly report financial statements. Private offers are restricted to investors with a net worth of at least $1 million excluding their primary residence, who are considered better positioned to take the risks of investing with less information.
"It changes the whole paradigm of who you can talk to," said Brian J. Lane, a former division director at the SEC and now a partner at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP in Washington. "Hedge funds will benefit because they have the most restrictions on their ability to communicate more broadly about different funds coming to market."
Raising Capital
Companies raised $899 billion through private offers last year, compared with $228 billion through registered sales of stock and $976 billion through sales of public debt, according to the SEC. Firms raising capital through private offers decide what information to share with investors.
State securities regulators say private offers were the most common product leading to enforcement actions in 2011. The North American Securities Administrators Association protested the SEC's plan for lifting the advertising ban after it was proposed in August. The state regulators said the SEC's plan failed to provide guidance to companies about appropriate advertising and didn't include any investor protections.
The rule proved controversial at the five-member commission. Democratic Commissioner Luis A. Aguilar, who voted against the rule, said it leaves investors unprotected against a greater risk of fraud.
"Without common-sense protections, general solicitation will prove be a great boon to the fraudster," Aguilar said in a statement prepared for today's meeting. "Experience tells us that this will lead to economic disaster for many investors."
Fellow Democratic Commissioner Elisse B. Walter voted for the rule, saying the SEC will scrutinize how advertising is used and will pursue additional investor protections in a separate rule.
"Technology has rapidly and permanently altered the ways in which we communicate with each other," Walter said. "Congress recognized that and directed us to update" the regulation by removing the advertising ban.
Copyright 2014 Bloomberg. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.


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GREENVILLE, Ill.--The GC Softball team lost both games in their home double-header against SLIAC Spalding, 11-5, 2-0.
Hannah Burger and Jessica Laubecher pitched the first game for the Panthers, with Burger recording the loss. Burger faced 27 batters in the five innings she pitched and allowed 9 hits and 7 runs. Shannon Elbe and Darci Sample each hit a double for GC. Elbe and Andrea Martin both had 2 RBI and, and Jessica Laubecher recorded one. The game ended 11-5 favoring the away team.
The second game also went to Spalding, this time with a final score of 2-0. The game stayed tied at 0-0 until the Eagles scored in the sixth inning and then again in the seventh. Ashley Woodrome pitched the entire game for the Panthers. She faced 28 batters and gave up 5 hits and allowed two runs in the game.
The team will play again tomorrow, April 6, when they face Principia at home.


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'XIII' coming to ReelzChannel; 1st look photos
Probably the most famous graphic novel series in the world, "XIII" is not as well known in the U.S. ReelzChannel might change that in June when it premieres "XIII: The Series." UPDATE: "XIII: The Series" will premiere at 8 p.m. June 29 on Reelz. Based on the spy stories of Belgians Jean Van Hamme and William Vance, "XIII: The Series" stars Stuart Townshend as the title character, a former CIA agent who escapes from a rendition camp with a surgically altered face and an identity handed him by a stranger. Suffering from amnesia, he takes his name from the Roman numeral tattooed on his neck as he searches for his true identity. Since the first volume of "XIII" was published 25 years ago, the comics have sold more than 13 million copies worldwide and been made into a video game series. A 2008 NBC miniseries called "XIII: The Conspiracy" featured Stephen Dorff as XIII and Val Kilmer as his antagonist, Mongoose. "XIII: The Series," an hour-long drama currently airing in France and Canada, began shooting its second season last month in Toronto. It's the second scripted series for ReelzChannel, which in the past was devoted mostly to programming about big-screen movies. Steven Seagal's "True Justice" was its first scripted drama. Check out the photos for more information about the spy thriller. Curt Wagner, RedEye's Show Patrol
Copyright © 2018, RedEye Chicago


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Watch The ::God Is Imaginary Videos On YouTube ::
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Religions need books because they don't have gods.
I've been visited only once when I was working on putting some new windows in my house.
The guy just handed me a pamphlet and told me to have a nice day. I don't think he ever visited again. If they would I would do the same as I do for the door to door salesman, "No thanks, have a nice day", then close the door.
opening the door naked and smeared in fake blood always helps I find... of course, you need a little prep time but the bikes and ties usually give them away buwuhahahaha
only if that makes them go running - never to return again!
on the other hand, if you were wanting to engage in some mindless debate with them, have cookies and punch ready. You'll need a bottle of something much stronger.
On one of the mail routes I deliver a person stuck a handwritten sign on their door saying that if the person was there to sell something GO AWAY!!! Might try something similar but make sure it includes religion peddlers.
All discussions took place with a to-go cup in my hand.
OAA? Did you find any them attractive? If so, you could confess your attraction. Or you could ask one of the men if you could try on his white shirt. So many possibilities.
I'd tell them that you have a completely different way of looking at the world and that they have no more a chance of making you into a JW than you have of making them believe something completely different. Then tell them that the best way to deal with such an impasse is for them to put their efforts elsewhere.
If they push you, warn them that you have 144,001 atheist friends, so you have the JW's outnumbered. That'll scare 'em off.
Never understood their logic. If only 144,000 are going to be picked to go to heaven then they seem to be hurting themselves by trying to make more of them.
^^^^And doing what??? Serving dinner each night to the 144k?
They left a magazine for me to read. What should I tell them when they come back next week?On a semi-related note, my dog started barking at them as soon as they mentioned that "the creator will soon return". Sounds like I've found the antichrist.
Wow, really? The creator is coming back. I guess I had better pick up around the house.
PD... "further instructions" like?preheat oven to 375°baste chicken with butter and garlic....makes sense (not so much)
On a semi-related note, my dog started barking at them as soon as they mentioned that "the creator will soon return". Sounds like I've found the antichrist.
Hey you guys, as the resident former JW here, you all have got some things wrong. First of all, the bike, with shirts and ties are Mormons, not JW's. We wore "modest dress" but did not have a specific uniform.


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Marcus HallFree Agent
Offensive Guard
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News | Stats | Stat vs. Team | Targets | Injury | Depth Chart | Roster
|Colts | Several released
Mon, 25 Aug 2014 05:41:41 -0700
The Indianapolis Colts released CB Johnny Adams, CB Qua Cox, OG Andre Cureton, OG Marcus Hall, CB Kameron Jackson, WR Nu'Keese Richardson, LB Jonathon Sharpe, S David Sims, WR Eric Thomas, WR Tony Washington and FB Cameron White.
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|| Source: Colts.com - Kevin Bowen
|Colts | Three re-signed
Fri, 08 Aug 2014 19:26:25 -0700
The Indianapolis Colts re-signed free-agents C Thomas Austin, OG Marcus Hall and WR Nu'Keese Richardson Friday, Aug. 8.
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|| Source: Terre Haute Tribune-Star - Tom James
|Colts | Two roster moves
Thu, 12 Jun 2014 15:27:59 -0700
The Indianapolis Colts claimed CB Brandon Burton (Bengals) off waivers and waived OG Marcus Hall Thursday, June 12.
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|| Source: KFFL.com
|Colts | 16 UDFAs sign
Sun, 11 May 2014 13:57:56 -0700
The Indianapolis Colts signed undrafted free-agent TE Erik Swoope (Miami, Fla.), CB Qua Cox (Jackson State), OG Marcus Hall (Ohio State), C Jonatthon Harrison (Miami, Fla.), DE Tyler Hoover (Michigan State), CB Kameron Jackson (California), QB Seth Lobato (Northern Colorado), CB Keon Lyn (Syracuse), S Dewey McDonald (California, Pa.), WR Greg Moore (Lane), DT Nnamdi Obukwelu (Harvard), PK Cody Parkey (Auburn), CB Darius Polk (Kent State), WR Eric Thomas (Troy), OG Josh Walker (Middle Tennessee State) and WR Tony Walker (Appalachian State).
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|| Source: ProFootballTalk.com - Josh Alper


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Bright Light Bright Light & Slow Nights Set To Headline Folsom Block Party
Wow, what a lineup for indie electronic music lovers. Openly gay artists Bright Light Bright Light and Slow Nights (fronted by Scissor Sister Del Marquis) are headlining a first ever lead-up party to the Folsom Street Fair.
From the press release:
For the first time ever, Folsom Street Events throws one big-ass party so YOU can show your FOLSOM pride! You've asked for it, so we're giving it to you. Come enjoy the best of Folsom-branded entertainment for an evening that will get you ready for our events season. Featuring up-and-coming acts Slow Knights and Bright Light Bright Light, this is an evening NOT to be missed.
After a decade in one of the most successful crossover bands, Scissor Sisters, few would expect member Derek Gruen (a.k.a. Del Marquis) to strip away his pop persona to create an album that relies so beautifully on the synergy of a carefully selected and intertwined group of collaborators. But he did just that for his debut full-length album Cosmos, under the moniker Slow Knights. Both a soulful and sharp-tongued album at once, Cosmos sheds light on the record's motivation. In meaning an orderly or harmonious system, Cosmos suggests something dream-like, enticing and full of the unexpected.
Bright Light Bright Light is the moniker of Welsh-born Rod Thomas, a singer, writer, producer and DJ that NME have called "the boy Robyn in all but name". The debut single Love Part II was a taste of what Rod has been working on for his debut album Make Me Believe In Hope with the likes of Andy Chatterley (Kylie / Nerina Pallot), Boom Bip (Neon Neon) and The Invisible Men (Jessie J). Drawing influence from the late 80's and early 90's, Rod has crafted a brand of shimmering electro-pop that nods to Depeche Mode, Bjork, and Yaz. Mixing a love of classic songwriting with a love of the dancefloor, Attitude Magazine described him as "Creator of emotional disco moments that only Kylie or Robyn can normally provide."
For more info or to purchase tickets, visit showfolsompride.com


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Which Dolphins offense line shows up Sunday could determine whether the Dolphins will have a place to show up on the first playoff weekend.
There's the offensive line that muscled the then-No. 1 rush defense of the Jets for 126 yards on 35 carries (taking out the game-ending kneel down) on Dec. 1, getting the run game going everywhere except on the goal line. Also, quarterback Ryan Tannehill got sacked only once.
Then, there's the line that Buffalo humiliated Sunday — 12 carries for 14 yards rushing and seven sacks allowed. Left guard Sam Brenner got benched. Nate Garner saw some work at left guard this week.
Explaining what went right against the Jets, Garner said: "We just went in with the mind-set that we were going to run the ball, kind of stuck to that game plan and tried to pound it. It wasn't anything special. We got in a rhythm and got on a roll."
In contrast, last Sunday: "We didn't get any rhythm. We didn't get anything rolling," Garner said. "It makes it harder for Coach to call plays and makes it harder for us to run them when we can't get that rhythm established and run for first downs."
The coach to whom Garner referred, offensive coordinator Mike Sherman, concurred.
"A lack of productivity in the run game caused me to veer off into another direction," Sherman said in reference to the few rushing attempts.
It would be appropriate if the Dolphins line played a pivotal role in this season finale. No unit came into the season with more uncertainty. No unit saw as many changes. And, of course, the line starred in two of the Dolphins' off-the-field controversies — the Jonathan Martin/Richie Incognito bullying-or-not-bullying affair and center Mike Pouncey wearing a "Free Hernandez" hat after former University of Florida teammate Aaron Hernandez was arrested on murder charges, then Pouncey being served with a subpeona in connection with another investigation of Hernandez.
Nobody has given up more sacks per pass play than the Dolphins. They're 26th in rushing and 18th in yards per carry. Sherman lamented the Dolphins' lack of big runs earlier this week.
The Jets still rank third in run defense and allow the fewest yards per carry in the NFL. By the way, Buffalo ranks 23rd and 20th, respectively, in those categories, rankings that indicate perhaps the Bills defensive line is just a bad matchup for the Dolphins offensive line.
Also, in the Dolphins' 23-3 victory at the Meadowlands, the Jets' offensive ineptitude eased the path of the Dolphins offense. New York went into halftime with only two first downs and 5 minutes 48 seconds of time of possession.
"This is definitely not the same Jets team. They are playing really well on offense," Pouncey said in a conference call with New York-area media. "The first time we played them they didn't play really well on offense, so they kept their defense on the field a lot in the first game. That's something we've really got to focus on is getting them off the field and running the football so they don't set us up for the pass rush."
Dolphins coach Joe Philbin said he thought "the elimination of penetration" was the key factor in the Dolphins running the ball well on Dec. 1.
"We struggled early though," Sherman said. "In the first half, we were kind of back and forth, back and forth and didn't put up the points, or capitalize on some situations. They're a good run defense, they're a very good defense. We left that game, and we still felt like they were a good defense and looking at the tape again and they are a good defense. We have to go into this week and fix what was broke [Sunday] and come out snorting and ready to go against the Jets."


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Math Education Still Possible Amid Budget Struggles
Jan 04, 2013, 10:30 EST
WASHINGTON, Jan. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- MATHCOUNTS.org, a national enrichment club and competition program that promotes mathematics achievement through grassroots involvement, is kicking off their second annual middle school math video competition, the Reel Math Challenge. At a time when so many American schools are feeling the strain of budget cuts many student clubs and programs simply lack the funding necessary to continue to enrich the educational experience. Technology has created an environment wherein students have unprecedented internet access and smart phones are capable of shooting high quality video and editing it through inexpensive apps. It seems that America has reached a tipping point where a competition such as the one at ReelMath.org is able to respond to educational budget challenges by invigorating the atmosphere of scholastic competitions and connecting students in a new way.
Established to encourage mathematics education, the Reel Math Challenge is an innovative program geared toward middle school students and the program is free to all participants. The competition requires students to create videos demonstrating a real word application of a math concept.
These sixth through eighth grade students work in teams of four under the guidance of a student advisor to generate a video that is both creative and educational, covering one of the 270 math problems that are outlined in the Reel Math Challenge Student Handbook, a guideline to the contest for all participants. Along with their student advisor, the students choose a single problem and devise a method to creatively illustrate the solution, along with the mathematical concept associated with the problem. These math problems are representative of the standard math curriculum for sixth, seventh and eighth grade.
"This math contest is about student engagement and bringing the fun back into math education," said contest founder Lou DiGioia. "These students are creating personal, entertaining math videos showing how they would solve a real-life math problem, and by bringing in a little competitive spirit with our prizes, we're able to create more meaningful engagement with the problems. We're also able to build deeper connections between teachers and their students, and enliven the classroom experience, which we believe is the key to building a life-long love of mathematics in these young people – something which our nation critically needs at this time in history."
The 2012 competition was the inaugural year for the Reel Math Challenge, with over 500 students participated and over 200 videos were submitted. The top four vote-getting videos will receive an all-expense paid trip to the 2013 MATHCOUNTS National Competition, where they will present their videos to those participating in that event. Once there, a jury of their peers will vote on the best video to determine the overall winner.
MATHCOUNTS is a national enrichment club and competition program that promotes middle school mathematics achievement through grassroots involvement in every U.S. state and territory. Currently in its 30th year, MATHCOUNTS is one of the country's largest and most successful education partnerships involving volunteers, educators, industry sponsors and students. For more information visit http://ReelMath.org/participate.
SOURCE MATHCOUNTS Foundation


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Forum Mafia Game III
29-06-2012, 06:44 AM (This post was last modified: 15-07-2012 08:33 PM by DeepThought.)
Forum Mafia Game III
Rules can be found here: http://cataldo.freeshell.org/mafia/mafiascum04.swf
Rule and Role Clarifications
Night abilities: Can only be used on a person once in a row excluding kill and cop-investigate abilities. If a killer is roleblocked one night the killer can target the same person on the next night.
Successful Kills (Night): The victims role is revealed and some clues to the killers role/faction are revealed. This will help determine the source of the kill (mafia, vigilante, inventor, serial killer, etc.)
Kills (Day): The killers identity will be revealed but their role and faction will not. (Unless it's inherently obvious - Eg: vengeful townie.)
Mafia Faction Kill: The mafia faction can chose 1 person to kill and choose one of their members to do the killing. If there is a godfather role he/she has the final say on who dies and who does the killing. Without a godfather you must decide amongst yourselves who will be submitting the kill decisions (I don't want to tally up Mafia kill votes as well so you handle all that internally).
Saved by protector: Revealed that someone was saved, and the role of the protector is revealed (whether inventor/doctor/jack of all trades/etc). Protector learns of the role/faction of the attacker privately.
Daytime abilities: Like special ability votes (politician/double voter), daytime cop, daytime vigilate... Decisions are final. Once the PM is sent it is what it is - no going back.
Eg: No changing of votes with the special ability. Only ordinary public votes can be changed, so be careful.
Voting: At the start of the game all factions will average 1 vote per player. If there are voteless players in a faction there will also be double voters to correct any imbalance.
Number of Mafia: The number of Mafia can vary from game to game depending on abilities. You will not find out exactly how many until the game is over. There will always be more townies than Mafia. The game typically ends if Mafia can out-vote the townies. Usually the number of Mafia is roughly 1/4 to 1/3 of the town population.
Win Conditions: Win conditions may vary depending on your faction. Usually the idea is to be the last faction left with surviving members. In the case of serial killers you have to kill all players. As a survivor you simply have to survive regardless of the faction remaining.
Public Voting: Posts with votes in them that show a modified time later than the timestamp of the following post will not be counted. Make votes as clear as possible preferably on a new line with bold font as follows.
Vote: {username}
Role Details
Thief: Reveals 3 generic items that disclose generically what role that person may have. For example a mayor or godfather might share some items in common like: grandfather clock, executive chair, expensive suit. A cop might have a gun, magnifying glass, etc.. For the most part a thief will uncover the role of their target with some room for grey area depending on the role.
Cop: Reveals the faction that person belongs to - could be cult, mafia, townie, self (survivor), etc..
If a person is investigated a second time the role is revealed also (this would also expose a godfather who would come up as a townie on the first night. DeathMillers will also be revealed this way.) - I doubt the 2nd investigation functionality will be used since it's expensive given the number of nights available!
Deputy: Becomes a cop if the original cop is killed. The deputy is given access to the case files disclosing investigation results/actions of their predecessor.
Vengeful Townie: When this player is lynched, can only kill someone who voted for him/her on the day in question. This counts as a day kill so it bypasses any protections players may get from night kills. (Bulletproof/Nexus/Godfather)
Paranoid Gun Owner: Kills whomever targets him/her with a kill ability excluding being poisoned ability (dies in the process like an elite bodyguard). The paranoid gun owner ability counts as an ordinary night kill.
Poison victims can be saved by doctor only on the next night.
Roleblockers: Will find out privately whether or not the person blocked tried to use a night ability. Once all actions are tallied the target will also be notified privately if they were blocked.
Inventors: Will not know what their inventions do. They start with 4 inventions that have randomly picked abilities though not allowing 2 of the same.
Item Types and Probability of occurring:-
Investigative: 5% - Track, 5% - Watch, 2% - Reveal Role, 12% - Cop Investigate, 1% - Forensic Investigation
Killing: 24% - Kill, 1% - God Kill (can kill roles normally not night killable - bulletproof/godfather/nexus)
Protective: 21% - Protect, 3% - 2 Night Protection, 1% - Revive/Resurrect
Roleblocking: 25% - Roleblock
In the case of revive and forensic investigation inventions you are notified the item will only work on the dead.
Inventor can skip a turn to:
Double Voters: make one public vote and pm the special ability vote to me (could be 2 different people voted for). I create a public tally which shows the publicly declared votes along with numbers for the special votes.
Politicians: When a persons vote is bought the victim will be told this via PM. Double voters will still keep their special extra vote via PM. Politicians have one public vote and the bought votes can be picked any way he/she chooses via PM. When a politician dies the victims regain their vote ability. If a politician fails to submit vote choices for the bought votes, the public choices of the victims will be respected. The politician can chose to allow a victims preferences, choose a particular target, or no-lynch.
Voteless or vote was bought: Can vote publicly but the public vote will not count in the final tally.
Being Voteless or Double Voting is a character attribute which can be applied to mafia, townies or whatever faction you happen to belong to.
The remaining roles will work as described in the link provided in the first post unless I add further clarifications here.
Note: This doesn't mean these roles will be used in the next game. It's only to clarify the inner workings of the game.
Atheist Faction - WINNERS
Atothetheist - Mafia GodFather, Double Voting
Things are meant to be peaceful in the small isolated village of Khel Azud...
That is until the internet came along and people started becoming apostates!
Your local Imam is recruiting you to put an end to the vile Kafir and purge the
heretics by any means available, restoring the village to it's rightful place in Islam.
Elsewhere the heretics gathered...
"Let us work together infiltrating the Imam's task force and destroy them from within!
In time we will drive out the Muslims, making this village ours!"
Day 0 - Starting Friday for introductions - duration 12hrs
The people look at each other wide-eyed and dazed... Not knowing what to think.
After several rounds of flinging accusations at each other the towns folk return to their homes weary eyed, ready to sleep the night away... or do they?
Night #1 - Duration 24Hrs
The rooster crows and the villagers wake. People look around and all seems to be in it's proper place.
No body parts where they shouldn't be. What is going on?
Day #1
The villagers whip themselves into a frenzy as they prepare for a day of lynching. Let's lynch LadyJane one person says... She's a WOMAN - AND AN ATHEIST says another. KILL HER they cry..
LadyJane is caught at her house mixing up some dynamite for her suicide vest as they close in an catch her unarmed. One person pulls her head back and plunges a knife into her throat.
LadyJane is dead.
Night #2
Earmuffs was outside this night enjoying the moonlight and whistling while checking coordinates on a gps tracker he planted on someones vehicle earlier. It's allot of work retracing peoples steps he thinks as he walks toward where the gps beacon leads him. He soon finds himself in a dark shed and his gps notifies him "You have arrived at your destination." Thats funny he thinks.
"More like your final destination!"
Earmuffs whirls around but its too late as a dark hooded figure clocks him over the head with a shovel. Earmuffs is found in the morning naked with an Atheist "A" cut into his chest. His belly cavity opened and internal organs exposed. Rats are chewing on them. Some heathen put a pigs mask on him as an ultimate insult to Earmuffs cherished beliefs.
Day #2
The town almost unanimously rallies against Magoo. "Kill the heathen liar" they shout. He keeps changing his story says another. Magoo deeply unhappy says "Fine... do it."
At his word the villagers rush to action eager to kill, tieing him up and throwing him into a stack of used car-tyres. Pour gasoline over him and throw in a match. His screaming and wild thrashing stops 20 seconds later.
When the villagers inspect his house and possessions - they realise with horror that they brutally murdered one of their own. One who was to be an enforcer of Allah's divine will.
Night #3
Grassy Knoll is praying at his shrine, where Allah endowed him with great power. He hears laughter nearby and when he looks sees noone.
As he continues to pray someone laughs again. "Who is that" he shouts as he's trying to find the source of the laughter. He feels pressure against his back and a buzzing sound of a taser shocking him and the world fades into blackness. He never wakes up.
Later in the shrine another man enters and sees Grassy lying face down in a bucket of pig fat. Praise the lord in heaven the man says. His eyes glazed over for a moment and there is uncertainty as to what personality will emerge when he snaps out of his trance. Suddenly his eyes narrow as he looks at Grassy's Body. "Well I suppose I better make sure it's done properly..." He pulls out a couple sticks of dynamite, sticks them under grassy's body and lights the fuse, going bolting down the street. BOOM! The sound of the explosion echoes through the village showering the shrine with Grassy's dna and pig fat.
Elsewhere someone is tinkering with his inventions, praise Allah he says gleefully as he fiddles with one of his inventions putting on the finishing touches. Smooshmonster can be seen walking nearby and the tinkerer thinks "Why isn't she driving tonight - especially since it's dark... Never mind.. She will make an excellent test subject!"
He points the device at Smooshmonster and switches it on. The device makes a whirring noise and Smooshmonster stops dead in her tracks, slowly dropping to the ground. The device overheats - parts spark and melt so the tinkerer quickly drops the device before he looses his hand. He looks at Smooshmonster and sees her head has been thoroughly cooked from the inside out. Even the normally transparent parts of her eyes look like cooked egg-white. He smiles when he see's the heathens Christian Cross hanging around her neck with "John 3:16" engraved on it.
Day #3
In the frenzy from last nights killings the remaining villagers rush to deliberate! Let's Kill Bemore they cry and the villagers unite against him. Bemore is stunned when he looks up and sees angry villagers standing over him just while he was brushing dried concrete from his work boots. "What is it?" he asks... But the villagers didn't come to chat.
They gag him and throw him into a pit. Above the villagers take turns throwing large rocks at him. Each one large enough to break bones. Eventually he stops breathing and the village falls silent. His house is overturned and they realise in their hasty judgement they executed one of their own.
Night #4
Erxomai - watching re-runs of Peter Poppoff has his credit card out of his wallet ready to receive his financial blessing. As he reaches for the phone someone wraps rope around his neck cutting off circulation and his world fades to darkness. He wakes up - upside down, crucified and dripping wet, he sniffs... That isn't water. Someone leaning against the wall watching him from across the room smoking a cigarette. "You know you shouldn't watch that garbage... It'll rot your brain!"
He takes one last puff and throws the cigarette at the crucifix. burning ashes scatter everywhere in a shower of sparks igniting the petrol. By the time firefighters arrive it is too late. Erxomai is dead, found charbroiled, upside down on a crucifix watching Peter Poppoff. Poor Erx.
Day #4
Filox was lynched
Night #5
Crickets chip through the night. Eventually the sun rises and nothing exciting has happened.
Day #5
Itsacow was lynched
"Forget Jesus, the stars died so you could be born." - Lawrence M. Krauss
The following 5 users Like DeepThought's post:5 users Like DeepThought's post
06-07-2012, 07:41 AM (This post was last modified: 06-07-2012 07:49 AM by DeepThought.)
RE: Forum Mafia Game III
Ok, roles have been sent. We are ready to begin!
Day 0 - Town Say-Hello Day
Duration 12Hrs...
"Forget Jesus, the stars died so you could be born." - Lawrence M. Krauss
RE: Forum Mafia Game III
Ok... Everyone seems too nervous to introduce themselves!
Don't be.. All roles were sent out before this thread was opened. So come say hello! Thats an order!
Alah Akbar!
"Forget Jesus, the stars died so you could be born." - Lawrence M. Krauss
The following 1 user Likes DeepThought's post:1 user Likes DeepThought's post
Grassy Knoll (06-07-2012)
RE: Forum Mafia Game III
I feel so much, and yet I feel nothing.
I am a rock, I am the sky, the birds and the trees and everything beyond.
I am the wind, in the fields in which I roar. I am the water, in which I drown.
RE: Forum Mafia Game III
Assalamu 'Alalikum Wa Rahmatullah,
In the name of Allah,the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful I solemnly pledge to never vote the innocent among us. You can hold me to that later IN SHA' ALLAH! OOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOOO!
RE: Forum Mafia Game III
As-Salamu Alaykum my brothers...
أنا ستعمل قتل جميع الكفار أنت سخيف، كنكم غثاء، الله أكبر، وجميع رحيم، وقال انه ذاهب الى تدلني على الطريق إلى البر! الله أكبر!
Fuck you all, I'm speaking in my native language, all those who do not understand, هم الكفار فوكين، وسوف يكون لكم كل الذين قتلوا في سبيل الله، وعظيم!
Grassy, only women do the OLOLOLOLOLO thing... If we allow them to. But can always blow yourself up and kill some infidels!
I have a theory that the truth is never told during the nine-to-five hours.
-Hunter S. Thompson
The following 2 users Like Filox's post:2 users Like Filox's post
Grassy Knoll (06-07-2012), Erxomai (06-07-2012)
RE: Forum Mafia Game III
I want my virgins
I feel so much, and yet I feel nothing.
I am a rock, I am the sky, the birds and the trees and everything beyond.
I am the wind, in the fields in which I roar. I am the water, in which I drown.
The following 2 users Like bemore's post:2 users Like bemore's post
Grassy Knoll (06-07-2012),
RE: Forum Mafia Game III
(06-07-2012 09:53 AM)bemore Wrote: DOWN WITH THE E.D.L.!!!!!
Your flagrant use of this enternets is most offensive to me. You should be given a hundred lashes during halftime entertainment at the futboll game but since you are a male I will tell you to go and sin no more.
The following 1 user Likes Grassy Knoll's post:1 user Likes Grassy Knoll's post
Erxomai (06-07-2012)
RE: Forum Mafia Game III
Just a quick reminder. Those with daytime actions please send them in whenever you get the chance. I want to close off this introductory day within ~10hrs.
"Forget Jesus, the stars died so you could be born." - Lawrence M. Krauss
RE: Forum Mafia Game III
Can I interest anyone in a delicious, refreshing Slurpee?
It was just a fucking apple man, we're sorry okay? Please stop the madness
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Joyce E. Brown, International Peace Corps volunteer and mentor
Feb. 3, 1931 – April 25, 2013
Joyce E. Brown, a former International Peace Corps volunteer who mentored international students after returning stateside, died Thursday in her Amherst home. She was 82.
Born Joyce Hastings in Niagara Falls, she was the first of 15 children in her family.
She was a 1948 graduate of North Tonawanda High School and went on to earn associate and bachelor's degrees in communications from Niagara County Community College and Empire State College, respectively, and a master's degree in English from the University at Buffalo in 1984.
Mrs. Brown joined the Peace Corps when she was 61, serving as a volunteer university English teacher in Ostrava, Czech Republic. She spent eight years there and traveled extensively throughout Eastern Europe, developing many lasting friendships.
She returned to the United States at age 70 and settled in Amherst. From 2001 to 2012, she was a volunteer with International Students Inc. at UB, where she mentored international graduate students in English and American culture, as well as helping resolve problems requiring a native speaker.
Mrs. Brown retired in February 2012 because of health concerns.
Survivors include four sons, Lloyd Jr., Paul, Larry and Eric; five brothers, Al, Jim, Ed, Richard and Glenn Hastings; and five sisters, Kitty Nelson, Bea Kappas, Susan Lawrence, Judy Jones and Ada Hastings.
Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday in Pendleton Center United Methodist Church, 6864 Campbell Blvd.


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Breaking the Yoke of Bondage Through the Love and Peace of God
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BREAKING NEWS: Real Madrid sign Rodriguez
James Rodriguez has sealed a blockbuster switch from Monaco to Real Madrid on a six-year-deal believed to be worth €70million.
Attacking midfielder Rodriguez becomes Real's second signing of transfer window, further boosting their creativity following the capture of Toni Kroos from Bayern Munich.
The arrival of the Colombia international comes on the back of a stunning World Cup campaign in which he led Jose Pekerman's men to the quarter-finals.
Rodriguez scored six goals to win the tournament's Golden Boot award, delivering on the promise that had been apparent ever since his days at Porto.
And the 23-year-old will now look to take his World Cup form into his maiden club campaign with Real, who will hope their transfer business brings further success after winning the UEFA Champions League for a 10th time last season.
The move sees Rodriguez depart Monaco after just one season at the Stade Louis II.
Rodriguez left Porto for Monaco for a fee in the region of €45million in May last year.
He quickly justified that outlay, scoring 10 goals and being named in Ligue 1's team of the season as Monaco finished second behind Paris Saint-Germain.
However, the cash-rich principality club will now have to find a replacement for the playmaker as they seek to bridge the gap to defending champions PSG under new coach Leonardo Jardim.


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The articles in this category refer to upcoming content. When the content is released, the accuracy of the respective articles needs to be checked and it may be necessary to complete the articles' infoboxes and/or upload necessary images.
Pages in category "Upcoming content"
The following 162 pages are in this category, out of 162 total.


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What do you do when your country is mired in the deepest recession in the EU, with the economy expected to decline by 16 percent this year? If you're Latvia, you hold a blonde parade:
Several hundred blondes marched through the Latvian capital Riga Sunday in a bid cheer up the crisis-hit Baltic nation, suffering the worst recession in the 27-member EU.
Organisers said they were determined to bring positive energy to their country, expected to see its economy contract by 16 percent this year.
The parade is part of the what they are calling Blonde Weekend, which will also features a blonde golf tournament, a little lady fashion show, an evening ball, and a children's drawing competition. …
The event attracted many locals and puzzled tourists.
Following the parade, blondes climbed into open-topped cars and drove to the local shopping centre to go shopping.
I suppose when you've lived under Communism, it takes more than a recession to get you down!


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NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks are edging higher on Wall Street, closing out a volatile week, as an upturn in manufacturing outweighed the threat of looming cuts to government spending.
The Dow Jones industrial average closed up 35 points at 14,089 Friday, overcoming an early loss of 116 points.
Big swings have come back to the stock market over the past week following relatively calm trading in January and most of February. The automatic budget cuts, worries over how soon the Fed may wind down its economic stimulus and Italy's inconclusive elections have made trading more volatile.
The Standard & Poor's 500 index rose three to 1,518. The Nasdaq rose nine to 3,169.
Four stocks rose for every three that fell on the New York Stock Exchange. Trading volume was average, 3.7 billion shares.


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Federal judge orders Utah to respect 1,300 marriage licenses it issued
May 19, 2014
Today, May 19, U.S. District Court judge Dale Kimball ruled that the state of Utah must respect the nearly 1,300 marriage licenses it issued to same-sex couples in December and January of this year. The ruling is the 18th consecutive victory in state and federal court for the freedom to marry since the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling in Windsor v. United States in June 2013. The ruling is the 14th win in federal court for marriage since June.
Judge Kimball's ruling was in Evans v. Utah, a federal case brought by the American Civil Liberties Union, the ACLU of Utah, and Strindberg & Scholnick, LLC. The judge is a prominent member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and has served in many leadership positions within the church, including bishop, high councilor, stake president, and Regional representative of the Twelve.
The judge wrote:
The court has already weighed and balanced the harms involved in issuing its preliminary injunction. Plaintiffs have demonstrated existing clear and irreparable harms if an injunction is not in place.
As discussed above, the balance of harms is necessarily tied to the merits of the decision because harm to Plaintiffs' constitutional rights are given significantly more weight than the State's harm in not being able to apply its marriage bans retroactively to legally-entered marriages. The irreparable nature of Plaintiffs harms involve fundamental rights such as the ability to adopt, the ability to inherit, child care and custody issues, and other basic rights that would otherwise remain in legal limbo. For these reasons, the court cannot conclude that the harm to the State outweighs the harm to Plaintiffs during pendency of the appeal.
The ruling is on hold for the next 21 days, meaning that the state of Utah could appeal the decision. The state is currently in the middle of an appeal in Kitchen v. Herbert, the December 2013 ruling that struck down the state's anti-marriage Amendment 3 and paved the way for all of these families to legally marry in the state.
The ACLU explained today: "Today's preliminary injunction is not a permanent order, but it reflects the court's determination that the plaintiffs' are likely to prevail on their legal claims and would suffer irreparable harm if their marriages were stripped of recognition. Today's order was given a 21-day stay to allow the state to respond."
Freedom to Marry founder and president Evan Wolfson celebrated the ruling today. He said:
Nearly 1,300 committed couples paid their fees, were issued marriage licenses, stood before family and friends, and got married – and the court was right to hold that they should be treated as what they are: married. Many others also want to take on that legal commitment and are being denied, and the litigation continues, as must our work in Utah and nationwide. The appeals courts and the Supreme Court should rule against marriage discrimination, just as the judge did today. America is ready for the freedom to marry.
Judges have struck down marriage bans now in 7 states in the past few months: Utah, Oklahoma, Virginia, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Idaho, and now Oregon. More limited decisions in favor of the freedom to marry have been handed down in Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee, Ohio, and now Utah again.
More than 70 cases are currently pending in state and federal court in more than 30 states and territories across the United States.


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Be sure to use a flameproof roasting pan so it can go directly over the burner when it's time to make the gravy. You can find pimentón, Spanish smoked paprika, in specialty stores or from online vendors.–Tom Douglas
LC Turkey As You've Never Had Before Note
This roast turkey recipe, basted with butter that's infused with paprika and fennel, is unlike any you've ever had before. Promise.
Smoked Paprika-Fennel Roast Turkey
- Quick Glance
- Serves 10 to 12
- For the fennel salt
- 3 tablespoons kosher or sea salt
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds, toasted in a small dry skillet over medium heat until very fragrant, then ground
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- For the smoked paprika and fennel seed butter
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds, toasted in a small dry skillet over medium heat until very fragrant, then ground
- 1 tablespoon sweet pimentón (buy it)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves (save the stems for the turkey cavity)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- For the turkey
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- One 11-to-12-pound turkey, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 recipe Fennel Salt
- 6 cloves garlic, peeled
- Zest of 1 lemon, removed in long strips with a vegetable peeler
- 4 large sprigs thyme, plus the stems from the chopped thyme above
- For the onion gravy
- 7 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 1/2 to 5 cups homemade chicken stock or low-sodium canned chicken broth, hot
- Make the fennel salt
- 1. Combine the salt, fennel, and pepper in a small bowl. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the mixture for sprinkling on the turkey and transfer the rest to a couple of small, shallow dishes for passing at the table.
- Make the smoked paprika and fennel seed butter
- 2. Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl until well blended. Set aside at room temperature or cover and refrigerate for up to several days.
- Make the turkey
- 3. Position a rack in the lowest part of the oven and heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush a large flameproof roasting pan lightly with 1 tablespoon melted butter. Make a bed of the onions in the center of the pan.
- 4. Trim the wingtips of the turkey at the first joint and, if already loose, trim the tail from the turkey. Remove the giblets (discard the liver) and neck and set them aside with the wingtips and tail for making the broth. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Set the turkey on a work surface and loosen the skin over the breasts by sliding your hands under the skin.
- 5. Rub all he paprika-fennel butter under the skin, smearing it over the breast. Brush the turkey skin all over with the remaining 3 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons fennel salt all over the skin of the turkey (sprinkle a little inside the cavity, too). Place the garlic cloves, lemon zest, and thyme sprigs inside the cavity. If you like, tuck the legs into the tail flap (or tie them together loosely, if there is no flap).
- 6. Set the turkey, breast side up, on top of the onions in the roasting pan (there's no need for a rack). Roast for 1 hour, and then baste the turkey with the drippings that have collected in the pan and rotate the pan. Continue to roast, basting every 20 minutes, until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part of both thighs, away from the bone, reads 170°F (77°C), another 1 1/2 to 2 hours. (If the turkey is browning too much, tent it with foil.) Set the turkey on a large platter to rest, tented with foil, for about 20 minutes while you make the gravy.
- Make the onion gravy
- 7. Set the roasting pan with the sliced onion and juices over medium-high heat. (It may need to straddle two burners, depending on your stove). With a wooden spoon, stir up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan and continue stirring for a few minutes, allowing the onions to brown a little more.
- 8. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the sliced onion and juices and stir until the flour is well combined, 1 to 2 minutes. Start adding the hot broth, 1 ladleful at a time, whisking out the lumps before you add more broth. Continue to add broth gradually, whisking each time until smooth, until you've added about 4 1/2 cups of broth. Add any juices that have collected on the platter around the turkey.
- 9. Lower the heat to medium or medium low and gently simmer the gravy, whisking occasionally, until it's full-flavored and thickened, 3 to 10 minutes. If it seems too thick, add the remaining 1/2 cup broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm until ready to serve and then transfer to a gravy boat.
- 10. Carve the turkey. Pass the gravy boat and the remaining Fennel Salt at the table.
If you make this recipe, snap a photo and hashtag it #LeitesCulinaria. We'd love to see your creations on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.


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Gears of War: Judgment delivers the most intense and challenging Gears of War game yet, with a campaign that takes you back to the immediate aftermath of Emergence Day — the defining event of the Gears of War universe — to test your mettle in highly competitive new multiplayer modes.
Set years before the events of the previous Gears of War trilogy, Judgment centers on Kilo Squad, a troop of soldiers led by Damon Baird and Augustus "The Cole Train" Cole. They are joined by newcomers to the Gears series, Sofia Hendricks and Garron Paduk, as they attempt to save the besieged city of Halvo Bay from a terrifying new enemy.
Playable cooperatively with up to three friends on Xbox Live (four players total), Gears of War: Judgment depicts the planet Sera on the brink of annihilation by an unstoppable new Locust menace.
Gears of War: Judgment features a Mission Declassification system that lets players experience more challenging gameplay scenarios and achievements by uncovering critical information during the course of the campaign.
Gears of War: Judgment introduces a new Smart Spawn System [S3] for both campaign and multiplayer action. This new system ensures that each encounter is unique and new because types, timing and locations of enemies change with each new encounter.
Gears of War: Judgment introduces new multiplayer experiences, including OverRun, a class-based competitive mode that lets five-player teams alternate between playing as Locusts and COG soldiers.
More articles about Gears of War: Judgment


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By WGBH News
Nov. 3, 2010
BOSTON -- "I ask everyone in this Commonwealth to turn to each other, not on each other."
Those were the words of Gov. Deval Patrick during his acceptance speech after his election to a second term as governor of Massachusetts.
While Patrick's words might have been the night's most quotable, we in the WGBH newsroom found a number of other quotes we felt captured the spirit of the night in their own way. Read and listen below for the sounds of an historic election night.
WGBH reporter Adam Reilly met 12-year-old Jack De Jong, of Weston, Mass., at the headquarters for GOP candidate Charlie Baker. De Jong was wearing an autographed Baker/Tisei hat at carried a homemade Baker/Tisei tambourine.
"I cant stand Deval Patrick, he thinks illegal immigrants can go to UMass I don't like that, my dad says I am not allowed to be a republic yet, but I will be a Republican, at my school a lot of people we had this poll at my school where kids said who their parents are voting for and Charlie Baker had 95% and I am happy about that."
Amy Goodrich, Baker's communication director, talked about the big adjustment any first time candidate faces—even one as heavily hyped as Baker.
"Charlie, this is the first time he has been doing this statewide, it's a lot different once you jump it, it's a gruelling schedule, it's walking into a room and having to tell them everything about you in 30 seconds or less, it's a big learning curve."
House Minority Leader Brad Jones spoke about overcoming Gov. Patrick's likability.
"On a one on one basis He is very personally engaging, and I think one of the challenges is that Deval comes across as a person you would love to have dinner with, maybe have a beer with, but I think that people separating I like to have dinner with him, but I am tired of him running the commonwealth because I think we can do better. "
At Cahill HQ, Shana Crawoll, explained her enduring support for the independent candidate.
"Its very strong and powerful for anyone to stand alone when they feel like they are doing the right thing, its hard to stand alone, I hope Massachusetts remembers that Tim Cahill did that who stood alone and did not back down and what I feel is right."
Sean Bielat conceded to Democratic incumbent opponent Rep. Barney Frank.
"This is not the speech I wanted to give, obviously, but this has been a success for the first time in 30 years people went to the polls and made a choice."
Sign-up for WGBH News updates, WGBH promotions, and previews of what's coming up on WGBH TV.


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Interview with Vlad Gerasimov @ PsdTuts+
In this interview, Vlad shares with us his humble beginnings as a designer and how he got started with creating wallpapers as full-time self-employment. He also shares his ideas, inspirations, and future plans. Vlad has a unique style of illustration, with simple lines and shapes. His work has great themes, which promises to win the hearts of viewers and make them happy! So let's move on to have a digital chat with him!
10 questions to Vlad from Vlad Studio @ Your Inspiration Web
If you are not acquainted with Vladislav Gerasimov and his work, I suggest you take a look at his personal website, where you'll find many examples of his creative genius. Surfing on the Web you'll notice how much Vladislav's work is appreciated and loved by everyone. His illustrations and wallpapers -filled with colors, emotions and juxtapositions – have graced our desktops for many years now.
Meet Vladislav Gerasimov @ Weird Worm
I am not famous enough yet for others to write my biography :-) My biography so far is quite ordinary, except I was lucky to transform my hobby into business, and therefore, make my living with things I love to do. I am 29-year-old, live in cold but beautiful Siberian town, Irkutsk, near lake Baikal (deepest in the world). I have a wife Ira and a black cat Bob.
BBC News - Click Online
Vladstudio.com offers the usual kind of digital art given away as desktop decorations. It's got good selection too, and just because it's not massively different doesn't stop it being good art. There are some stunning scenes to choose from here. Download instructions are pretty obvious, and there are plenty of resolutions to choose from.
Zazzle Featured Seller Interview With Vlad Gerasimov
Vlad Gerasimov, aka vladstudio, has been a Zazzler since 2004. He was kind enough to answer some questions about his artwork, and his time with Zazzle. Check out the interview below and don't forget to check out his store Vladstudio!
Interview with Vlad Gerasimov @ TutsArena.com
Vlad is an extremely talented artist from Russia, whom — we are sure — a lot of our readers know by his gorgeous wallpapers, photographs and graphics. Every time we have a dull day, we check out his site for inspiration and refreshing imagery.
Interview with Vlad Gerasimov @ katchoolik.com
Vlad Gerasimov is a multi-talented artist based in Irkutsk, Russia. [...] Vlad is one of the few graphic artists I have encountered who bring a new dimension and a fresh perspective to the world of digital illustration. Too often, computer-generated designs are one-dimensional, lifeless, and stale ? the edges are too straight, the shadows are not believable, the colors look flat, the images lack creativity, and the characters have no personality, but when you gaze into Vlad?s designs, you feel like a child lost in a wonderland, looking through the hourglass. Although the characters in Vlad?s illustrations are cartoons, often represented by shapes and lines, they are no less expressive than a photorealistic rendering of a face, and their personalities, hopes, whims, and emotions are right there in front of you...
Interview With The Creative Digital Artist Vlad Gerasimov
With a great spirit of innocence and purity we will be here today with the wonderful Russian artist Vlad Gerasimov! I was always -and still- keen to follow his amazing website and all his works firsthand to enjoy it on my desktop. All of his works have an extremely high level of professionalism in resolution as well as choice of colors, and each piece contains a word or a story! What a lovely unique illustrations he has!!! It's really sends the comfort and serenity when viewed! Vlad has a great deal of talent and uniqueness so that able to highlight the beauty from and with simplest stuff! You'll see here what will pleased your eyes truly, and I bet that your screen will be the dearest friend with his wallpapers as mine!


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To many people the case is just as important as the other components of a computer as the expansion capabilities, the size of the case, the cooling and therefore the maximum number of fans and other factors are determined by the selection of a case.The case is also generally the first thing people look at when seeing a computer for the first time.Mid Tower cases are popular as they fit most anywhere and have a reasonable amount of expansion.
SilverStone is a computer component manufacturer that sells cases, cooling solution, HDD enclosures and other related hardware.They have branched out into DVD players, Power Supplies, RAID enclosures and many other products. Their core business is still the case or enclosure. They introduced the Temjin series of cases with an aluminum finish and spacious design for the high-end cases. But not everyone needs or wants a Temjin case and the Kublai series is designed to feature many of the same features at a more attractive price point. Today I'm reviewing my first Precision series case the PS05.


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Every revolution begins with an idea. A unique, patented alignment system has made 2-ball the world's best-selling putter. Now the 2-ball Putter line has more models and more options than ever before. Just line up the discs – drop your putt. No putter looks like it. No putter performs like it.
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Mel Watt Has Signaled a Major Housing-Policy Shift
Rep. Mel Watt won't be sworn in as the director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency until Monday, but he has already sent a clear signal of the coming shift in direction from his predecessor Edward DeMarco, the agency's acting director for the past four years.
Last month, Mr. Watt announced that he would immediately delay a series of loan-fee hikes, announced in December by the FHFA, once he was sworn in as the agency's director on Jan. 6. The FHFA had announced those fee hikes on the eve of Mr. Watt's confirmation by the U.S. Senate, and the increases provoked strong industry blowback after more details were released by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac one week later.
Mr. Watt's announcement signals that access to mortgage credit is likely to ride shotgun ahead of other competing policy goals, such as reducing the firms' footprint in housing markets, a top priority of the FHFA in recent years. Mr. DeMarco has often been called the most powerful man in housing through his role overseeing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the government-supported mortgage companies that backstop around half of all U.S. home loans. Consequently, Mr. Watt's confirmation as the FHFA's director could presage the largest potential shift in housing policy since the companies were taken over by the government in 2008.
Here's a deeper look at what's going on:
What exactly did the FHFA do? The agency announced on Dec. 9 that it would raise loan fees charged by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which are typically passed onto borrowers in the form of higher mortgage rates. These fees have already been increased several times. But unlike earlier across-the-board fee hikes, these increases were different. Fannie and Freddie announced on Dec. 16 that they were raising upfront fees sharply for borrowers without perfect credit and without large down payments.
Why does the regulator want to increase these fees? The FHFA and the Obama administration have said that loan-guarantee fees need to go up so that private mortgage investors can better compete with Fannie and Freddie, reducing the government's role in the mortgage market.
The FHFA directed the most recent round of fee increases after concluding that certain loans were still priced too low to generate returns that private investors would demand, even though Fannie and Freddie are now profiting handsomely from these loans. An FHFA official also said that higher fees were needed in order to make it easier for Fannie and Freddie to accelerate certain risk-sharing transactions, which have been touted as a key way to reduce the government's backing of the mortgage market.
Why did Mr. Watt delay the fee increases? Mr. Watt said last month he was delaying the fee hike until he had "the opportunity to evaluate fully the rationale for the plan." Even though the increases don't take effect until March, Mr. Watt said, "it was important to announce my intentions now" because lenders could begin to price in the fees in the coming weeks. Mr. Watt said he wouldn't elaborate further until he had time to complete his review.
Is there a bigger policy disagreement here? Yes. There is broad consensus in Washington that private capital should take a greater role in the mortgage market. But that's easier said than done. Why? Steps to bring back private capital could raise borrowing costs for homeowners, reducing access to home loans for some.
There are two competing views about why private capital hasn't returned at scale. The first presumes that the government is subsidizing mortgages by pricing credit guarantees too cheaply and guaranteeing much larger loans, crowding out private capital. If the cost of public capital rises and the loans eligible for that support shrinks, private capital will ultimately return. This view reflects the FHFA's rationale for the latest fee hikes.
The second view says that private capital is staying on the sidelines for reasons other than just price. Investors may have remained on the sidelines, for example, because they're concerned about the housing market, or because bond issuers haven't addressed certain conflicts of interest in how loans are managed.
If private capital is on the sidelines for reasons other than price, the argument goes, simply raising the cost of government-backed mortgages may not actually result in more private capital. Instead, it could result in less capital for housing, hurting the housing market, which makes it harder to attract private capital. Raising fees for loans backed by Fannie and Freddie, moreover, could simply send more business to the Federal Housing Administration, which wouldn't serve the purposes of bringing in private capital.
This view appears to have more support within the Obama administration and various real-estate groups. "We want to see a much broader, more comprehensive effort to bring back private capital to take credit risk before you just squeeze and raise fees," said Michael Stegman, a senior Treasury Department adviser, at an industry conference in October. "It's all got to be of one piece."
Mr. DeMarco has been willing to prioritize shrinking the footprint of Fannie and Freddie ahead of other policy imperatives, such as making credit more accessible. Mr. Watt's decision to suspend the fee increases shows that he may view things differently.
What does this all say about how Mr. Watt will run the FHFA? For now, it raises more questions than it answers. Will Mr. Watt ultimately continue where Mr. DeMarco left off, moving ahead with plans to reduce loan limits and raise fees? If not, does he simply freeze all steps to bring back private capital, which could further entrench the government's large role in the mortgage market? Or will he attempt to find a middle ground—taking steps to identify and remove other potential barriers to private capital besides the government's price advantages? The answers to those last two questions will reveal much about the direction Mr. Watt plans to take the FHFA, especially if he concludes that borrowers' access to mortgages isn't to be sacrificed for other competing purposes.