text:
This award program, established in 2004, honors up to 20 writing programs a year. As a term, "programs" is intended to be capacious in its application and includes:
To be eligible for this award, programs must be able to demonstrate that:
i. The program imaginatively addresses the needs and opportunities of its students, instructors, institution, and locale.ii. The program offers exemplary ongoing professional development for faculty of all ranks, including adjunct/contingent faculty.iii. The program treats contingent faculty respectfully, humanely, and professionally.iv. The program uses current best practices in the field.v. The program administrator (chair, director, coordinator, etc.) has academic credentials in writing.vi. The program uses effective, ongoing assessment.vii. The program uses effective placement procedures.viii. Class size is appropriate.ix. The program models diversity and/or serves diverse communities.
In addition, programs may want to include other documentation showing that:
a. The program has conducted research that serves similar programs at other institutions.b. The program exhibits coherence in terms of disciplinary expectations.c. The program exhibits some distinctive feature(s) in the student and/or faculty experience. For instance, the program could have a strand, such as critical thinking or cultural awareness, that links courses. These links might appear within the context of learning communities.d. The program effectively integrates theory and practice.e. The program uses practices and materials that lead to desirable learning outcomes.f. The program provides valuable and valued community service.g. The program has established strategic alliances with campus units and/or initiatives (e.g., service learning, student retention).
Applications are due by August 31, 2018 (they must reach the CCCC office by/on this date). To apply:
A. Anyone in the program or outside the program may submit a letter nominating the program or indicating that the program is preparing a full application for an award. The purpose of the letter is to establish contact with a CCCC staff member, who will assist the writing program staff as they prepare the full application. Of course, applicants are not required to seek such assistance as they prepare application packets. Please send a short nominating email to firstname.lastname@example.com, including the institution nominated and contact information for the person preparing the application.
B. The following is a list of items that the full application should include, limited to 30 total pages, including all attachments, appendices, and/or supplemental materials. Please send all materials, including the application and any supplemental items, to CCCC Writing Program Certificate of Excellence, email@example.com. Please note that materials submitted will kept for the CCCC archives and will not be returned to you.
CCCC will announce the award in CCC, on the Website, at the annual meeting, and on appropriate listservs. Winners will also be recognized at the annual Awards Session at CCCC. At that time, the program will be presented with a certificate. CCCC also will assist in sending a press release to the campus media office, to appropriate campus administrators, and to local newspapers.
For additional information, please contact the CCCC Liaison at email@example.com.
Dickinson College, Writing ProgramGeorge Washington University, Writing ProgramUniversity of Arizona, Writing ProgramUniversity of Maine, College CompositionUniversity of North Carolina at Charlotte, University Writing ProgramUniversity of Oklahoma, First-Year Composition ProgramUniversity of Oklahoma, Writing CenterUniversity of Pennsylvania, Critical Writing ProgramWinston-Salem State University, Writing in the Majors Program
Boston University, College of Arts & Sciences (CAS) Writing ProgramSalt Lake Community College, English DepartmentUniversity of Maryland, Writing Programs: Academic Writing, Professional Writing, Writing CenterUniversity of Wisconsin Colleges, Writing Program
2015-2016 Oakland University, Major in Writing and RhetoricRoger Williams University, Department of Writing Studies, Rhetoric, and Composition
2014-2015Community College of Baltimore County, Developmental Writing ProgramIllinois State University, Writing ProgramNortheastern University, Writing ProgramUniversity of Alberta, Writing Studies 101: Exploring Writing2013-2014Montclair State University, Center for Writing ExcellenceSt. John's University, University Writing Center & Writing Across the Curriculum ProgramUniversity of Colorado at Boulder, Program for Writing and RhetoricUniversity of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Blugold Seminar in Critical Reading and WritingUniversity of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, First-Year Writing Program2012-2013 Emerson College, First-Year Writing Program John Jay College of Criminal Justice, First-Year Composition Program Oakland University, Department of Writing and Rhetoric Pennsylvania State University, Rhetoric and Writing Program University of California, Santa Barbara, Writing Program University of Central Florida, First-Year Composition Program University of Colorado, Boulder, McNeill Writing Program
2011-2012 Appalachian State University, Vertical Writing Curriculum Montclair State University, First-Year Writing Program St. Louis Community College, ESL Program University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Undergraduate Rhetoric Program University of South Florida, First-Year Writing Composition Program University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Writing Program The University of Texas at El Paso, First-Year Composition
2010-2011 Binghamton University, State University of New York, First-Year Writing University of Connecticut, University Writing Center Wheaton College, Writing Across the Curriculum Program
2009-2010Louisiana State University, Communication across the Curriculum Program
2008-2009 North Carolina State University, First-Year Writing Program University of Massachusetts Amherst, Writing Program Washington State University, Writing Program
2007-2008The University of Denver, Writing ProgramUniversity of Toronto Scarborough, Writing Centre
2006-2007Ball State University, Writing ProgramMichigan Technological University, Writing CenterPurdue University, Introductory CompositionSwarthmore College, Writing Associates ProgramUniversity of Toronto, Office of English Language and Writing Support
2005-2006Duke University, University Writing ProgramEastern Michigan University, First-Year Writing ProgramMarquette University, First-Year English Program
Winter 2005Carleton College, Writing ProgramThe Ohio State University, First-Year Writing Program
Fall 2004Central European University, Center for Academic WritingClemson University, The Advanced Writing ProgramMichigan Technological University, Department of Humanities Writing ProgramMichigan Technological University, Scientific and Technical Communication ProgramPurdue University, Writing LabRowan University, Department of Composition and RhetoricSaint Joseph College, Writing Portfolio ProgramSalt Lake Community College, Community Writing CenterSan Francisco State University, Technical and Professional Writing ProgramUniversity of Missouri, Campus Writing ProgramUniversity of Washington, Engineering Communication Program
Copyright © 1998-2018
National Council of Teachers of English. All rights reserved in all media.
1111 W. Kenyon Road, Urbana, Illinois 61801-1096 Phone: 217-328-3870 or 877-369-6283
Looking for information? Browse our FAQs,
tour our sitemap
and store sitemap,
or contact NCTE
Read our Privacy Policy
Statement and Links Policy.
Use of this site signifies your agreement to the Terms of Use
This document was printed from http://www.ncte.org/cccc/awards/writingprogramcert.
NCTE - The
National Council of Teachers Of English
A Professional Association of Educators in English Studies, Literacy, and Language


text:
2007/08 Upper Deck Fleer Michael Jordan Missing Links #MJ5 Michael Jordan
Please note that the image shown is a stock photo. The card you receive may vary from the image shown if we have more than one in stock.
Sorry, it looks like your browser doesn't have cookies enabled. Dave & Adam's only uses cookies to keep track of your shopping cart while you browse dacardworld.com. Please enable cookies to further enjoy your shopping experience. If you have cookies enabled, please refresh your browser.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
A hair stylist from Indianapolis, Indiana is receiving severe backlash after complaining about a woman who she said ruined her New Year's Eve dinner by having a heart attack.
Holly Jones took to the Facebook page of Kilroy's Bar N' Grill, where she was eating dinner on New Year's Eve, to complain about the staff for telling her that "someone dying was more important than (her and the people with whom she was eating)." According to the post, Jones thought that the woman was an addict suffering from an overdose.
But the woman, in her 70s, was suffering from a heart attack.
Paramedics were called to the restaurant to help the woman.
Jones wrote this on Facebook:
"I will never go back to this location for New Year's Eve! After the way we were treated when we spent $700-plus and having our meal ruined by a watching a dead person being wheeled out from an overdose my night has been ruined. Every year we have come to Kilroy's to enjoy New Years Eve and tonight we were screamed at and had the manager walk away from us while were trying to figure out our bill being messed up.
"The manager also told us someone dying was more important than us being there, making us feel like our business didn't matter, but I guess allowing a junkie in the building to overdose on your property is more important than paying customers who are spending a lot of money! Our waitress when we were trying to ask about our bill being messed up also said, 'What do you want me to do, (expletive) pay for your bill for you?' What a great way to talk to a paying customer! I get that working on New Years Eve (is) stressful, but being a complete (expletive) to us all night knowing you get an automatic gratuity is not right!"
After posting her comments on the bar's Facebook page, manager Chris Burton responded, calling her attitude "disgusting."
Here is his response:
"Thanks for reaching out! We love feedback, whether it be positive or negative. I especially like feedback like this so others can see the disgusting people that we have to deal with sometimes.
"First of all, the 'overdosing junkie' that you speak of was a 70-plus-year-old woman who had a heart attack. Thankfully she was finally revived at the hospital and survived. It sounds like you were very concerned about her so I thought you should know. This poor lady, who was celebrating New Year's Eve with her husband and son, had to be placed on the floor of a completely packed bar and have her shirt removed in front of everyone so the paramedics could work on her. But I can completely understand why you think being intoxicated (expletives) that didn't understand your bill should take priority over human life.
"I especially appreciate you making your server (who doesn't curse) cry as well. I'm sure she really enjoyed working on New Year's Eve just to deal with people such as yourself. I personally had to leave a show to take a phone call from an emotional manager telling me someone died at Kilroy's and that other employees were not doing so well dealing with this. (At the time they didn't know that she was going to make it.) So I understand how inconvenient this was to your night.
"But honestly, I'm glad to hear you won't be coming back to Kilroy's because we wouldn't want anyone as coldhearted and nasty as you returning. I appreciate anyone who chooses to spend their money at Kilroy's until they act like you. You can take your money anywhere else after that, and I won't lose a second of sleep over it. Happy New Year!"
Kilroy's Facebook page has been flooded with positive comments, complimenting Burton for sticking up for his staff and his customers.
Jones' employer, Serenity Salon, has received calls for her to be fired. The salon responded in a post: "We take our reputation seriously, and this does not align with our code of conduct or the expectations we have for our staff, booth renters or any members of our team."
Jones claimed that someone hacked her account and that she is not responsible for the rude post. She has deleted her Facebook account.
A GoFundMe page has been started by the heart attack victim's daughter, Tohnna Wymer, to help pay for medical bills.
"She is in critical care ICU at IU Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis," Wymer wrote on the fundraising website. "When she does start to regain consciousness, she will have a long road of recovery. The reason I started this page is to help my parents with medical bills and also to help with any needed therapy she will need. She is a fighter and will fight to the end!"
Serenity Salon has already donated $500 to the page.
Serenity Salon is aware of the most recent negative publicity surrounding one of our Booth Rent Stylist. The posting to...Posted by Serenity Salon on Sunday, January 3, 2016
Fall is here and Halloween is only a few weeks away. I love making art/craft projects with the kids. But I love using or re-purposing what we already have. Here are 4 of my favorite craft projects that fit the bill. 1. As the leaves are turning beautiful colors and soon start to fall. Have the kids collect some leaves and make a leaf project with them.2. I love any project that involves handprints. This is a great keepsake for your home or even pass on to a grandparent as a gift. It is Handprint Fall Trees. I have mine framed and we change it out each year to see how the kids have grown.
3. If you are looking for some Halloween decorations. Make Canned pumpkins and ghosts out of old soup cans. 4. You can't go Trick or Treating without a pail or bag. How about making your own Halloween or Fall Festival Bucket with a plastic bucket and letting the kids decorate it. I bought plastic buckets at the end of summer clearance for 75% off, so that was a deal. Melissa Cox aka-Frugalissa is a wife and mom to 2 elementary aged children. Her motto is "Frugal does not mean I have to be cheap". She is into natural living, being green and tries to feed her family healthy, wholesome food while still couponing and saving a buck or two. She teaches workshops where she teaches people how to coupon, save money and make their dollars stretch. She is also an advocate for teaching people to give to those in need through couponing. She writes the blog Frugalissa Finds.(Source: Savings.com)
Spring is finally here, hopefully it's getting warmer where you are. There are some really great freebies starting to pop up. If you want to stay bug free while you enjoy the great outdoors, you can get a free mosquito repellant bracelet right now. Need something to read on a lazy day? Snag a free subscription to Ladies Home Journal. And for your cat, use the coupon to get a free can of Friskies or Fancy Feast. We've got 10 freebies for you this week:Freebie #1: Bugslock Mosquito Repellant Bracelet - Offer from 1SaleADay for new customers accounts only. Add the item to your cart and go through the checkout process. No credit card needed and shipping is free too. If you've already created an account with them (creating an account is free), you can't get this freebie.Freebie #2: Reese's Peanut Butter Cup at ShopRite - ShopRite Price Plus club Card number is required. Item will be deducted at checkout in stores. Must be purchased by 4/13/13.Freebie #3: One Year Subscription to Ladies Home Journal - Just fill in the form to get yours. PLEASE NOTE: As with all magazine freebies, near the end of your free subscription you will receive an invoice to renew your subscription. Just write "cancel subscription" on the invoice and mail it back. Freebie #4: Silk Iced Latte - Enter once each day at the top of an hour between 9am - 5pm until March 29, 2013. On their page:"If you are one (1) of the first two hundred (200) people to register for the Promotion each hour between 9 am and 5 pm EST during the Promotion Period, you will receive a coupon for a free half gallon of Silk Iced Latte. Additionally, one winner will be randomly chosen each day during the promotion period, to receive 26 free coupons for a free half gallon of Silk Iced Latte.Freebie #5: Plane Rides for Kids Interested in Aviation - The EAA Young Eagles program was launched in 1992 to give interested young people, ages 8 - 17, an opportunity to go flying in a general aviation airplane. These flights are offered free of charge and are made possible through the generosity of EAA member volunteers. Visit the linked page to find out how to participate.Freebie #6: Can of Friskies or Fancy Feast Cat Food - Print the coupon and get the can of food in stores. You must be a Petco Rewards member to get the freebie. If your not, you can sign up at the store. It's a loyalty card just like the ones you have for grocery stores. The coupon expires 5/31/13.Freebie #7: Sample of SmartyPants Gummy Vitamins - First 100 daily - it's probably best to try around midnight. They're located in California so the giveaway may be on PST. Click the 'Click Here' box on the far left of the page and take the 4 question survey to see if you're one of the 1st 100.Within a couple minutes of answering the questions, you'll receive an email letting you know if you were one of the first 100.Freebie #8: Chicken of the Sea Prize Pack - All club members who successfully get three people to sign up for the Mermaid Club will be sent a Chicken of the Sea prize pack! Offer available until through April 1, 2013 at 9:01 a.m. PT. Become a member. Refer a Friend.Freebie #9: Toms of Maine Wicked Cool Toothpaste Sample - Offer from Target, sometimes the pages take a while to load. Answer "Yes" to the first question so you can qualify to get the freebie.Freebie #10: Movie Ticket & Pop Corn at Movie Tavern - The free membership includes a free pop corn for signing up and a free movie ticket on your birthday. Locations - VA, PA, KY, TX, CO, OH and GA.Jackie lives in Seattle, her blog is Free Hot Samples. Where there are hundreds of freebies and deals up for grabs.(Source: Savings.com)
You might also be interested in the following related posts:
You might also be interested in the following related deals:
If you're paying for higher education, the government is actually here to help you. You can write off part of the cost on your tax return. You can take one of three tax breaks, but only two of them are worth your while.
You qualify for the write-offs if you're paying tuition for yourself, your spouse or a dependent. The school can be public, private, for-profit or online, as long as it's accredited. The tax breaks apply to the cost of tuition and fees, but not room and board.
READ: Educate yourself on college tax breaks
Here's a guide.
For a student in a degree- or certificate-granting program, attending at least half-time: Use the American Opportunity Credit. It's good for the first four years of college or other post-secondary education. For each eligible student, you can write off up to 100 percent of the first $2,000 in qualified expenses and 25 percent of the next $2,000. That's $2,500 per student. Besides tuition and fees, this credit also covers the cost of course-related books and equipment.
If a third party helped you pay the bills — say, a grandparent — you still get the tax credit, as long as the student is your tax dependent.
There's an income limit. Singles and heads of household get the full credit on adjusted incomes up to $80,000. The size of the credit goes down as income rises, and phases out at $90,000. Married couples filing jointly get the full credit on incomes up to $160,000, phasing out at $180,000.
For a graduate or fifth-year student or student not working toward a degree: Use the Lifetime Learning credit. It's good even for people taking just one course. You can write off 20 percent of tuition and fees up to $10,000 – for a maximum credit of $2,000. (That's $2,000 total, no matter how many students in your family are taking these kinds of courses.) The credit also covers the cost of studies undertaken to improve your job skills, at a school that doesn't offer degrees. The income limits are the same as those for the American Opportunity credit.
READ: Can I deduct my gym membership?
For taxpayers considering the Education Tax Deduction for tuition and fees: Don't bother. In almost all cases, you're better off with the American Opportunity credit and you can't take both, says Mark Luscombe, principal federal tax analyst for CCH, a tax information firm. Here's an example:
Using the deduction, singles can write off up to $4,000 in tuition and fees, on adjusted incomes up to $65,000, $2,000 on incomes up to $80,000 and nothing over that. Married couples get a $4,000 write-off on incomes up to $130,000, $2,000 on incomes up to $160,000, and nothing over that.
At first glance, this tax deduction looks larger than the tax credit for people with middle incomes. But don't be fooled by the high, $4,000 dollar amount. A $2,500 American Opportunity credit reduces your tax bill by the full $2,500. A $4,000 deduction in the 15 percent bracket reduces your taxes by just $600.
Don't forget to take your tax credit! Your school should have sent you a Form 1098-T, reporting how much you paid for qualified tuition and expenses. Use it when filling out your return.
If your expecting a baby or know someone who is, this is a great week for you. There's going to be an online baby shower next week hosted by Cozy Belly, mOmma, Daddy Scrubs and more. You can grab gift cards, baby bottles, breast feeding essentials and more. Over 7,000 items will be given away. This week's list also includes a free game rental from Redbox. You'll be able to use your free coffee offers while your play your free game. Plus, don't forget to stop at Rita's for a free water ice on the 20th.
Freebie #1: Online Baby Shower - mOmma, Cozy Belly, Daddy Scrubs and more! Starts March 18th and will be offered on their Facebook pages. "Like" them to get the form.March 18th 1pm EST - 250 Pediped $10 Gift CardsMarch 18th 8pm EST - 250 Cozy Belly $20 Gift CardsMarch 19th 1pm EST - 250 Lansinoh Breast Feeding Essentials PacksMarch 19th 8pm EST - 1,500 $10 WarmEz Gift CardsMarch 20th 1pm - 100 $25 Daddy Scrubs Gift Cards and 150 $10 Daddy Scrubs Gift CardsMarch 20th 8pm - Born Free Classic 5oz. Bottles (500)March 21st 1pm EST - 1,000 Hyland's Baby Cough SyrupMarch 21st - 8pm EST - 1,000 mOmma TeethersMarch 22nd 1pm EST - 2,000 Ella's Kitchen Snack Packs
Freebie #2: Lysol Dual Action Wipes w/Rebate - 1. Original cash register receipt dated between 3/4/13 and 4/1/13 showing purchase of (1) single unit package of Lysol Dual Action Wipes with date and purchase price circled. 2. Original UPC symbol from package. 3. Completed form - (form linked below). Place in a properly stamped envelope and mail postmarked no later than 5/1/13 to the address on the linked page.Freebie #3: One Night Redbox Game Rental - Text NOWPLAY to 727272 on your cell phone to receive a free 1 night game rental code via text. The code expires 5/9/13.Freebie #4: Folgers Fresh Breaks Sample - "Like" their Facebook page to get the form.
Freebie #5: Rita's Italian Ice March 20th - Rita's annual Spring giveaway will be held on Wednesday, March 20 from noon to 9 p.m. at all open Rita's locations.Deal: On March 22nd Sbarros is going to release a coupon for a slice of pizza for a buck! It's not free, but it's close!
Jackie lives in Seattle, her blog is Free Hot Samples . Where there are hundreds of freebies and deals up for grabs.
(Source: Savings.com)
You might also be interested in the following related posts:
You might also be interested in the following related deals:
If you have some spots on your walls that need to be touched up, grab a free quart of paint next weekend! The offer isn't live yet but keep watching Ace Hardware's Facebook page for updates. Marlboro is offering a free dart set, but you have to be 21 to snag this freebie. You can also grab a couple of hair care freebies this week. First you can go to JCP Dry Bar Xpress to get a complimentary touch up and some free samples or just order two Miss Jessie's samples by mail. Stella Artois has free chalices again, this time you can get your name engraved on them. You have to purchase a Stella Artois product to get a code or request a free code by mail to claim the freebie. If you have a Starbucks card, register it online and get a $5.00 credit added to your card - that's a free coffee! There's also going to be free monthly health screenings at CVS stores throughout the county until Ocober. Check the calendar of events to find a location and screenings near you.
Freebie #1: Free Quart of Clark+Kensington Paint March 9th - Coupon not available yet, but will be offered on their Facebook page. When available, print the coupon and claim your paint in-stores on March 9th. Coupon valid on flat enamel only.Freebie #2: Free Set of Darts from Marlboro - You must be 21 to claim this offer. Log in or register with Marlboro and click on "My Marlboro" on the right for the drop down menu. Then click on "Offers" in the drop down menu. The offer for the darts should be there. If you haven't signed up with Marlboro yet, you should! They offer great freebies from time to time. They will ask you a lot of personal information when signing up, this is to make sure you are 21 or older. I've been a member of their site for a couple years and never had any problems.Freebie #3: Complimentary Touch Up & Free Redkin or Pureology Sample - Stop by the JCP Dry Bar Xpress and get a free touch up and Free Redken Outshine or Pureology Silk Bodifier minis. You can see the offer on the bottom right linked page. No expiration date is given, call your local JCP for more info. Store Locator.
Freebie #4: Two Miss Jessie's Hair Care Samples - Choose the freebie you want and add it to your cart. You'll be taken to the check-out page, but click on the "free samples" tab at the top of the page to choose another free sample. After you picked your two free samples, go to check-out.You'll be asked for a phone number - I entered my area code then 999-9999.You'll be asked for a credit card number - Choose Mastercard and enter 16 zeros.You'll be asked for an Expiration date - Choose any expiration date.You'll be asked for a security code - Enter 3 zeros.Mine went through with no problem using the information above.
Freebie #5: Stella Artois Engraved Chalice with Code - Grab specially marked Stella Artois packages for a promotion code or request a code by mail without making a purchase.Here's the instructions for requesting a free code:Hand print your first and last name, complete mailing address (no PO Boxes), and age on a 3x5 index card or piece of paper and place your request into an outer- mailing envelope with proper postage affixed and mail it to:
Stella Artois Custom Engraved Chalice Code RequestPO Box 753256El Paso, TX 88575-3256
One request per person and your request must be received by March 15, 2013. The free chalice is available until March 31, 2013 or while supplies last.
Jackie lives in Seattle, her blog is >Free Hot Samples. Where there are hundreds of freebies and deals up for grabs.(Source: Savings.com)
You might also be interested in the following related posts:
You might also be interested in the following related deals:
When you're young, living at home, and all you have at tax time is a single W2, filing your taxes is pretty simple. In fact you canfile your federal return online for free at IRS.gov. Most states have a free file online option as well.
But as you get older, your financial life gets a bit more complicated, and so might your taxes. Here are some things to remember throughout the year that will help you make the most of the available deductions.
INFOGRAPHIC: What our favorite TV homes are worth
If you're still in college and your parents are claiming you, do them a favor and keep your book receipts. They may be able to claim them as part of the American Opportunity Tax Credit. Paying down student loans after graduation isn't fun, but you may be able to deduct the interest paid on them. This can be easily overlooked because many times your Form 1098 is not mailed to you but posted electronically (I know, I forgot my daughter's last year!).
The tax code allows for some miscellaneous itemized deductions that include unreimbursed employee expenses. That means that if you pay union dues for your job or have to purchase supplies, you may be able to deduct them. The catch is you first need to be itemizing deductions instead of taking the standard deduction, which you may not be unless you own a home.
Even so, you can only deduct the amount that exceeds 2 percent of your adjusted gross income. Some states like Pennsylvania allow a deduction for those unreimbursed expenses without regard to a floor or itemization though. You'll need to save receipts, and your last paystub of the year should show your union dues paid. Teachers currently can deduct up to $250 of supplies purchased (without reimbursement) even if they don't itemize.
Becoming a homeowner usually gives you enough tax deductions to exceed the standard deduction and start using a Schedule A for itemized deductions. For that form, you'll need to have your mortgage statement from your bank showing interest paid and your real estate taxes. If you pay them yourself, be sure to have a receipt from your tax collector showing how much you paid.
In the year you buy your home, you may find some additional deductions hidden in your settlement statement, or HUD-1. Look specifically for real estate taxes you reimbursed the seller for at closing. Note though that in your first year of a homeowner you may not yet have accumulated enough interest and taxes to jump the standard deduction hurdle.
READ: Three financial habits to develop in your 20s
Itemizing your taxes also allows you to deduct charitable contributions — as long as you have a receipt (a cancelled check will do for single gifts less than $250). Cash donations won't stand up to IRS scrutiny unless you have a receipt. Don't forget to deduct any state taxes you paid in that tax year for a prior year's balance due.
Looking for or changing jobs can help you at tax time too. In that miscellaneous itemized deductions category, you can add in costs for job hunting, including resume services. Did you move to change jobs? If your new workplace is more than 50 miles from your old home than your old job was from your old home; or if you did not have a previous job, more than 50 miles from your old home you may be able to deduct moving expenses.
You must also work full time for at least 39 weeks during the 12 months following your move. Keep track of the miles you drove, save receipts for any rental truck, storage fees, hotels, but no meals.
Keeping good records and saving receipts is work that pays a nice dividend with tax savings.
Easter is right around the corner, so dress the kids up in their Sunday's best and head out to Sears. They're offering a free 8x10 photo with no session fee! It would make a nice gift for grandparents or to keep for yourself. Everyone likes to make a donation every now and then, so how about donating for FREE! Slim Jim will send their product to our troops and all you have to do is write a note of encouragement. My favorite freebie of this week is the four record coasters, but you have to be 21 to claim it. There are a couple other freebies listed too. Get your free stuff now!
Freebie #1: 8x10 Fresh Effects Photo at Sears - Coupon expires March 10th. Valid for one photo with enhancements and no session fee. Appointments required.Freebie #2: Set of 4 Record Coasters - Offer from Black & Mild, you must be 21 to claim this freebie. Register or log in. Click on "My Black and Mild" on the right of the page once logged in, and scroll down under your personal info to see the offer. You must be 21 to enter their site. Ends 4/30/13 or while supplies last.Freebie #3: "Just Married" Sign from Progressive - Fill in the form to get your personalized "Just Married" sign - Flo not included.
Freebie #4 - Nescafe Memento Sample - New offer from Walmart is open to eveyone, even if you've received this freebie before! Watch the short video (15 seconds) and when it's over click the "Get Sample" on the video screen.Freebie #5: Donate for Free - Slim Jim's For Our Troops - Okay, so this freebie isn't for you, but you can send a note with a Slim Jim to our military members. Write a message of encouragement to the troops and Slim Jim will send them a Slim Jim along with your note. Up to 1,000,000 will be sent!Freebie #6: Free Appetizer with TGI Friday's App - "Right now, get a free appetizer just for downloading our mobile app. It's loaded with features for Give Me More Stripes members, plus My Friday's Tab that lets you pay from your phone. And our appetizers are, well, just plain loaded. Get both today."
Jackie lives in Seattle, her blog is Free Hot Samples . Where there are hundreds of freebies and deals up for grabs.
(Source: Savings.com)
You might also be interested in the following related posts:
This week you can grab a sample of Downy, a free Gillette Venus or Embrace razor with a Costco card and a few other freebies. Keep in mind that most freebies come with a coupon and it's usually a higher value coupon than you can get from the Sunday's papers. If you live near a Yogurtland, stop in on the 4th and get yourself a tasty freebie. Are you a JustForU member? If you are, get a 64oz bottle of soda for free by checking the app.If you're in the NJ or NY area, stop into an American Apparel store to get a free pair of gloves. Just make sure you bring your print out to get them. For your kids, there's a free building clinic on the 9th. You'll want to register early because the classes fill up fast!Freebie #1: Downy Infusions Sample - Offer from P&G. Click on "Request a Sample". P&G allows one order request per household address per quarter. Ordering periods are generally between January 1 and March 31, April 1 and June 30, July 1 and September 30, and October 1 and December 31. Sample and coupon selections change throughout the year. If you ordered a previous sample(s) this quarter from P&G you may not be able to get this offer.Freebie #2: Frozen Yogurt & Topping - Offer at Yogurtland. On February 4th from 4pm - 7pm stop in and get a free yogurt and topping! Freebie #3: Gillette Venus or Spa Breeze Razor - Get a free razor from Costco! Membership number required to get the freebie.Freebie #4: 64oz Bottle of Soda - Offer for Safeway and affiliate stores. If you're a member of theSafeway JustForU, check in the "Coupon Center" under the "Beverage" category to see if you've been offered the free 64oz. bottle of soda! Choice of 7Up Ten, Sunkist Ten, Ginger Ale Ten or A&W Ten (Ten meaning 10 calories). Expires 2/5/13. Offer is most likely available for their affiliate stores too.Freebie #5: Pair of Winter Gloves: For NY & NJ American Apparel stores. Print the linked page to get a free pair of gloves. Must be redeemed by February 6th. Offer available while supplies last, no purchase necessary. Participating store locations are also on linked page.Freebie #6: Lowe's Build & Grow Clinic - Saturday, February 9th at 10am: Wheel of Love "Valentine's Day is right around the corner! Bring your child to Lowe's and they can build this Wheel of Love!" Classes and supplies are both free. Register for all classes in advance online. Space is limited and fill up quickly.Jackie lives in Seattle, her blog is Free Hot Samples. Where there are hundreds of freebies and deals up for grabs.(Source: Savings.com)
The U.S. Center For Disease Control reports heavy flu activity around the country, with 29 pediatric deaths attributed to what doctors are calling a"severe" flu season.
For workers who begin experiencing flu symptoms, the CDC advises staying home and not contaminating their colleagues.
That seems like sound advice, but way too many employees are reluctant to call in sick, even when down and out with a flu or cold. According to a 2012 study by business retailer Staples, about 80% of workers show up at the office even if they are sick. Additionally, 66% say they go to work even though they have an illness that's contagious.
READ: Five trends redefining the workplace in 2013
That's not all. A report from Bloomberg says that the rate of sick day usage by U.S. employees is approximately 50% less than in 2006. That's likely due to the economic downturn, as workers believe they can't afford to take a sick day, lest they look like they're shirking on the job.
That begs the question for U.S. employees: If you do catch a bad flu and can't go to work, what's the best way to"call in sick" and ensure your work is done while you're recuperating?
Peter Handel, chief executive at Dale Carnegie Training, a New York City-based international business services outfit, offers up a"to do" list:
Be realistic. An employee should call in sick when their illness is still contagious and their productivity will decline significantly due to their illness."If an employee knows the quality of their work will be negatively affected due to their illness, it is best for all parties involved to call in sick," Handel says.
Cut yourself some slack. Staffers often feel like they're so vital the office can't survive without them. That's a mistake."We encourage employees to take care of themselves when needed in order to ensure they continually perform their best," he says.
Rouse yourself on a"temporary" basis. Client meetings and high-profile calls scheduled far in advance are often legitimate reasons for employees to try to get into the office even if they are feeling under the weather. If it's impossible to reschedule, employees can offer to call in from home to not miss an important meeting.
READ: Dear boss, I'm pregnant, bankrupt, divorcing
Get ahead of the problem. Employees should make the decision to call in sick as early as possible - even the night before if possible, Handel advises.
READ: Do the right thing. Then get fired.
Handel says calling in sick the right way lets you take care of business at the office while you're taking care of yourself at home.
Enable our Skill today to listen live at home on your Alexa Devices!


text:
I discovered that the book is available again when I read Akin Ajayi's commentary at The Guardian's Book Blog, "Penguin's African Writers Series is stuck in the past" (via The Literary Saloon). Ajayi makes the case that the five books being released in the U.K. to inaugurate the new series are all at least 15 years old (a sixth book, Karen King-Aribisala's The Hangman's Game, is part of the series in South Africa, but not available [yet] in the U.K. or U.S.; it is more recent), and this presents an odd contrast to the accomplishments of the original African Writers Series from Heinemann, which made hundreds of contemporary African works available to a wide audience.
Ajayi's general point is an important one, and one I expect Penguin is aware of, given their sponsorship of the Penguin Prize for African Writing -- they do seem interested in new writers and new writing, and I would not be surprised to learn that the decision to start with older books had something to do with a desire to launch the series with titles that already have some name recognition. I have a very different view of literature than Ajayi, though, who writes:
I don't have anything against the selection itself, it's just that it's hard to see what the selection can tell the curious reader about lives lived across Africa today. These books can't say much about the challenges of globalisation, migration, or the struggle by the citizens of Africa's 53 countries to form an authentic identity, because these books are not of the moment. Classics, yes; contemporary, no. And in this sense at least, the new AWS disappoints.There's lots of great writing happening on the continent right now, and that's one of the reasons why I hope Penguin will move their primary focus to new works, but Ajayi's view of what books should do or be seems to me an awfully narrow one, and the idea that African writers are primarily valuable because of the up-to-the-minute content of their writing is ridiculous. A book like Black Sunlight will not tell you what is happening in Zimbabwe right now, no -- for that, you need journalists and eyewitnesses. For a whole lot other than that, you need Black Sunlight.
And while we're talking about exciting books being reprinted, I should also note that Tin House will be bringing Marlene van Niekerk's extraordinary novel Agaat to the U.S. this spring in Michiel Heyns's translation from the Afrikaans (complete with a blurb from Toni Morrison). I read the first third or so of Agaat when I was doing research for my essay on Coetzee, Promised Land, and the plaasroman, and for a while I thought I might include Agaat in that essay, but the novel was too rich and too long, and so I returned it, reluctantly, to the Dartmouth Library, hoping one day to have time and cause to return to it again. Now that Tin House is publishing it here in the States, perhaps I will find that time and cause.


text:
The Sports Xchange
Astros deal slugger Carlos Lee to power-starved Marlins
The slumping Miami Marlins finally got the big hitter they had been seeking, as they acquired Houston Astros slugger and first baseman Carlos Lee from the Houston Astros on Wednesday.
In return, the Astros receive a pair of promising prospects, third baseman Matt Dominguez and left-handed pitcher Rob Rasmussen.
Lee, 36, is batting .287 but has struggled with power, having just five home runs and only 29 RBI in 65 game appearances this season. But a change of scenery could cause his bat to pick up in the power department.
The deal was apparently made during Wednesday's road game for the Astros, who were visiting the Pittsburgh Pirates. Lee, who had spent over five seasons with the Astros, was pulled from the game in the seventh inning by Houston manager Brad Mills in what would eventually wind up being a 6-4 Astros loss to the host Pirates.
By the time the game ended and the media was allowed into the locker room, Lee and his belongings were long-gone, apparently with him heading to meet the Marlins.
Miami has seemingly been desperate for power hitting as it hopes to turn things around heading into the second half of the season. A right-handed hitter, Lee gives Miami both a veteran player and power swinger.
Plus as an added bonus, his ability to play first base every day will likely help shore up weakness at that position, where current first baseman Gaby Sanchez has been struggling at the plate, batting just .194 with two home runs and only 16 RBI.


text:
Reviewed By Ramon M (MEDANALES, NM) Reviewed for a 2004 Chevy Cavalier —6/24/2013 3:50 PM
Received in 5 days(free shipping). Installation reasonably time consuming(read the instructions). Make sure to buy flange gasket, not included in the kit(new flange bolts optional but recommended). Be sure to lubricate the flange bolts prior to removal,saves you a lot of time and effort. Support the catalytic converter because it has a flex joint and will sag a good amount. All hardware was vehicle specific and fit with no issue. Tips are massive 5" and system does have a drone around 2000rpms.


text:
Home / Rings / Cages / Mats / MMA CAGES / Training Cages / Combat Sports Free Standing MMA Floor Cage
Model Number: Cage5
Completely free-standing cage that goes up in minutes and does not need to be bolted to the floor
The most economical training cage available
Designed to sit on top of your existing mats or flooring
Heavy duty door, door locking mechanism and hinges. Easy bolt together cage panels with heavy grade vinyl coated fencing
The Free Standing Floor Package Includes:
8 corner posts
8 vinyl coated cage sections - 6' tall
16 cage panel brackets
8 extra wide, 12" x 72" corner cushions - black only
8 top and bottom rail covers
Available Options:
Boxing, Martial Arts, Mixed Martial Arts, Kickboxing and all other contact sports are high risk sports and users of these products are subject to personal injury. These training and fitness accessories provide a degree of protection but are not warranted to protect the user from injury. The user must assume full responsibility for any injury sustained through the use of these products. Depending on usage, the protective quality will diminish in time and require replacement.
© Copyright 2018 Full Contact Sports
Privacy and security | Return policy | Shipping policy


text:
LAS VEGAS – MGM Resorts is unveiling vast Wi-Fi networks that will allow visitors at its Las Vegas casinos free wireless Internet access in public areas.
The company announced the project Tuesday, saying the system is already in effect at the Bellagio, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay and The Mirage. It's expected to be installed this year in the Monte Carlo, New York-New York, Luxor and Excalibur.
Company officials say basic Internet access is available to anyone who comes into public areas such as the lobby, pool area, casino and restaurants, and doesn't require a password.
Hotel guests get an upgraded service, and convention attendees can upgrade to top speeds.
MGM representatives say the system will turn entire properties into a hot spot and support tens of thousands of guests with multiple Internet-enabled devices.


text:
PLATFORM-1 EXPERIMENTAL ARCHIVE (1992 - Present)
All tracks from Platform-1 Experimental Recordings are being digitally remastered and uploaded here to form a complete archive.
The most recent set to be remastered ragardless of production date will be uploaded to the top of the list. The archive will be chronologically sorted later when it is more complete.
For the latest P1EXP tracks go to soundcloud.com/p1exp
p1exp.com for information.


text:
Photos for macOS
Photos in macOS High Sierra helps you keep your growing library organised and accessible. Powerful and intuitive editing tools help you perfect your images. Memories displays the best images from your photo library in beautiful collections with even more categories. And with iCloud Photo Library, you can keep a lifetime's worth of photos and videos stored in iCloud and up to date on your Mac, iOS devices, Apple TV and even your PC.


text:
WonderCon Anaheim 2013 Tips for Attending the Show!
WonderCon Anaheim is this weekend at the Anaheim Convention Center, located at 800 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, CA 92802. While most of the WCA staff is on their way to the Happiest Place on Earth (or at least right next door to it), we here in the Toucan department would like to offer you some friendly tips to help you enjoy your convention experience before we hit the road to Anaheim, too!
Homework (the Good Kind)
If you have purchased a badge online and know you're coming to the show, we strongly suggest you download our QUICK GUIDE PDF (or look at it online). This 20-page center section from our Program Book will tell you everything you need to know about the show and the Anaheim Convention Center, plus our headquarters hotel, the Anaheim Marriott, where nighttime events take place. It also contains the Exhibit Hall map, a complete list of exhibitors, and the Programming Schedule grids. You're going into battle . . . prepare a plan of attack in advance! (TIP: When the PDF opens, click the down arrow--download--button in the upper right corner on the menu bar to download.)
Getting In: Badges
If you don't already have a badge, stop right here and click here to purchase one. Please note that certain badge categories may already be sold out, such as 3-day and Saturday badges . (TIP: You will need a Member ID to purchase a WonderCon Anaheim 2013 badge. If you don't have a Member ID, click here to get one before purchasing a badge.)
If you already have your badge, go to Hall E FIRST, which is on the level UNDER Hall D on the ground level, to pick up your badge, bag, and Program Book. Remember to bring your barcode receipt to get scanned to pick up your badge. (TIP: See the maps on pages 2 and 3 of the QUICK GUIDE for locations at the Anaheim Convention Center.)
Go to HALL E for:
- Onsite Badge Sales for Attendees (if available; check here for information on onsite badge sales)
- Pre-registered Attendee Badge Pick-up
- Disabled Attendee Badge Pick-up (if you need assistance getting your badge, please go to the Disabled Services Desk in Lobby A/B)
- Professional Badge Pick-up
- Guests Badge Pick-up
- Program Participants Badge Pick-up
- Hotel Desk (help desk for any hotel reservation problems
Once you have your badge, WEAR IT AT ALL TIMES WHILE YOU'RE IN THE CONVENTION CENTER (yes, we're shouting), and if you go to the Anaheim Marriott for Nighttime Anime, Games, or to visit our Hospitality Suite. You will need to display your badge in a visible place to navigate the show.
Don't give or sell your badge to anyone—inside or outside the Convention Center. And if you don't have a badge, don't purchase one from someone online or outside the show. The only place that you can purchase badges in advance for WonderCon Anaheim is here on our website. Visit our Badge Purchase page for information on how to purchase a badge.
Getting In: Parking
Parking is always a problem when you and thousands of your comics and pop culture-loving fans get together. The Anaheim Convention Center has a number of parking lots surrounding it, but they fill up quickly. Overflow parking is in the Disney/Toy Story lot. Parking at these lots is $12/day, with no overnight parking available. Watch for the overhead informational signs as you drive in, which will have info on parking at the Convention Center. Click on the map to the left to see an overview of the ACC and its parking lots, or click here to download a PDF of the map. Our advice is to get here early, get the car parked, grab some breakfast and fuel up for the big show.
Getting Around the Convention
This year, the WonderCon Anaheim Exhibit Hall is in Halls A and B and the big programming room is in the Arena, right next door, at that end of the Convention Center. As we mentioned, you'll pick up your badge in Hall E, beneath Hall D, if you're an attendee or a professional or a panel participant. Press Registration is in Lobby A/B. There are additional informational and registration desks in Lobby A/B, outside of the Exhibit Hall, including the Volunteers Desk, the Masquerade Desk, the Blood Drive Desk, the Disabled Services Desk (where you can arrange for interpreters for the deaf, among other services), and the Costume Weapons Check Desk. For all you cosplayers: You cannot bring a functional weapon to WonderCon. All weapons must be inspected and conform to federal and state law. Click here for more information about the Costume Weapons Check Desk.
We will be taking new Volunteers on site. Sign up at the Volunteer Desk in the Lobby of Halls A/B. Desk hours will be: Friday: 9:30 AM-7:00 PM, Saturday: 9:00 AM-7:00 PM, and Sunday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
The Exhibit Hall and Arena are located on the ground level (Level 1) of the Anaheim Convention Center; other programming and event rooms are located on the second and third levels. Escalators, elevators and stairs take you there from the ground level. Check the maps in the Quick Guide PDF for exact locations or click here to see a map of the Exhibit Hall. (TIP: This may take a little while to download on your screen. Click PAGE WIDTH in the Automatic Zoom dropdown menu at the top of the page to see the whole map.)
Our complete Programming Schedule is online and updated constantly. It's your best bet for changes and cancellations, as are the schedule signs outside the programming rooms. All Programming rooms have limited seating and are available on a first-come, first served basis. While your badge gets you into all open rooms with available seating, it will NOT get you into rooms that have been closed due to a capacity audience. These room limits are set by the Fire Marshal and cannot be violated for safety reasons. Our best advice: Have a Plan B if you can't get into your first panel or event choice. There's always something else to do at WonderCon Anaheim!
We suggest you utilize our MySched service to keep track of the panels you want to see and that you get there early. Remember, we do not clear rooms between panels, except for the Arena, which will be cleared at the end of the programming day to get ready for the Masquerade on Saturday night. (Doors reopen for the Masquerade at 8:00 PM.)
You're going to get hungry sooner or later, and we've got you covered. The Exhibit Hall has two giant concession stands (one in Hall A and one in Hall B), plus the Arena programming room has its own concessions. Other food and beverage options are a short walk away. Both hotels adjacent to the Convention Center—the Anaheim Marriott (our headquarters hotel) and the Hilton Anaheim—have restaurants, bars, and other food outlets, including Starbucks in each hotel. The Hilton has a food court. Anaheim GardenWalk and Downtown Disney are also within walking distance. Both offer free admission and multiple restaurants. Check the Anaheim maps in your copy of the Program Book (on pages 94 and 95).
Oh, the Weather Outside Is . . .
Hopefully not as frightful as last year, when we experienced torrential rains for two out of the three days. The weather report for Anaheim as of today (Wed., 3/28) is:
Partly Cloudy all three days of the convention; temperatures in the low to mid 70s in the day, mid 50s at night. Change of precipitation: 0%. (Don't hold us to this . . . we're convention planners, not weather forecasters!).
Prepare Wisely You Shall
Conventional wisdom is simple: Wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, pace yourself, take a break from shopping the Exhibit Hall, visit the panel rooms upstairs (and the Arena on the ground level), step outside and get some fresh air, and sit down and rest.
Other things to keep in mind: Bring a backpack or bag to carry your purchases. Mailing tubes are great for posters. Do NOT bring rolling carts or wheeled suitcases or dollies. They are not allowed on the floor. Remember your cellphone charger. We do not page people, so use your cellphones to keep in touch. It's always good to pre-plan a meeting place and time . . . it's a big show!
If you're planning on asking artists for sketches, it's a good idea to come armed with your own sketchbook. We recommend the hardbound kind for a more permanent keepsake. Be patient and courteous when asking for sketches and autographs.
And be courteous to your fellow pop culture lovers, too. When we interview attendees about their experiences at our shows, they almost always point out how much they love being among "their people." Everyone in that line for the Doctor Who screening is there for one reason: They love Doctor Who! So do you, that's why you're with them! Strike up a conversation with your line-mates. You may meet your next best friend.
Every Convention Is What You Make of It
WonderCon Anaheim is a different experience for everyone. Some people come just to shop for old comic books, some for toys and action figures. Some just go to panels and events. Some just people-watch or take photos. Whatever your preference, whatever your want list demands, you'll find something fun to do at WonderCon Anaheim this year. It all takes a bit of planning, a bit of patience, and a bit of rolling with the punches. Use this website to help plan your WonderCon Anaheim experience!


text:
Most people aren't thinking about Christmas in September but for Deb Goyen, Christmas, particularly Christmas lights, is already taking up a lot of her time.
Most people aren't thinking about Christmas in September but for Deb Goyen, Christmas, particularly Christmas lights, is already taking up a lot of her time.
Goyen organizes the annual Lemon Park Lights display and right now she is focusing on a new set of lights going up in Sixth Street Park for the first time this year.
The new display is the 12 Days of Christmas and Goyen is looking for a few willing donors to play Santa Claus to help pay for the displays.
Donations to Lemon Park Lights and some financial assistance from Travel and Tourism will be used to pay for the lights, Goyen said.
However, the price of the displays ranges from $700 to $2,000 apiece so to get the entire set of 12 displays will cost about $21,000 and that is where Goyen is hoping for some financial help to cover the cost of the displays.
"Travel and Tourism will be helping with the cost but it would be nice to get some donations so they wouldn't have to pay so much," Goyen said.
The lights are LED so that will save the city some money on electricity and replacing bulbs.
Goyen was also able to get the lights at a much lower cost because she ordered them back in January just after the light display season was over. They were available at a big discount because they were out of season and that saved a lot of money so she went ahead and ordered the displays then, Goyen said.
Goyen has a catalogue at The Peoples Bank where she works that shows the displays. Any person or group wanting to donate to the 12 Days of Christmas project should stop by the bank and visit with Goyen. Those interested can also call Goyen at the bank at 672-5611 or at her home at 672-2549.
Over the years Goyen had received many requests to add some lights to Sixth Street Park to compliment Lemon Park Lights but Goyen had always said "no" because she didn't want to duplicate the Lemon Park Lights. The new displays would require extra help for set up and take down plus additional electrical hookups in Sixth Street Park. It would also require additional storage space because the storage shed for Lemon Park Lights is full.
Then she found the 12 Days of Christmas display and it seemed to be exactly what would work in Sixth Street Park.
The display would instantly provide a complete 12-display set that required no more additions.
"Once you put it up, it's done," Goyen said.
Goyen presented the idea the city commissioners and although she was still a little hesitant to tackle the additional work, the commissioners approved the idea and that was the final element to make it work.
"It was actually their (city commission) decision that pushed me to go for it," Goyen said.
Goyen also got some unexpected help when Pratt Fire Chief Dave Kramer said city firefighters would help with setup and takedown. The Township 12 firefighters also volunteered to help as well.
The city agreed to do the necessary electrical work and that has been completed.
The displays have been ordered and because they don't have storage space yet, they will arrive just before set up day on Saturday, Nov. 10. The downtown lights and park lights will be turned on Saturday, Nov. 17.
Hopefully, the new displays will help fulfill the original purpose of the Lemon Park Lights to increase tourism in Pratt.
The number of visitors to Lemon Park Lights varies from year to year but the biggest total was approximately 22,500 vehicles, each with several people in the car.
Hopefully, those people will get a bite to eat or do some shopping or buy some gas before or after they visit the lights.
"That was the whole idea, to increase tourism," Goyen said.


text:
A localized weather alert service will be launched in fishing villages on Lake Victoria as a result of a partnership between the Uganda Department of Meteorology (UDoM), World Meteorological Organization (WMO), MTN, Ericsson, National Lake Rescue Institute (NLRI) and the Kalangala Fishing community. The solution combines mobile technology, weather forecasting and local know-how.
Daily weather forecasts and well-timed warnings will be delivered in local languages. The information will enable fishermen and traders to make informed decisions on, for example, when and where to fish in Lake Victoria, thus helping to save lives and preserve livelihoods.
The service, still in its pilot phase, is being tested by over 1000 fishermen in the Kalangala District of Lake Victoria. MTN, Grameen Foundation AppLab Uganda and Ericsson are offering the service with UDoM, which will then be available for the entire Lake Victoria community in the next three months.
MTN Uganda, in partnership Uganda Department of Meteorology will, upon completion of the pilot, deliver the mobile service free of charge to MTN customers.
The pilot involves training community representatives in basic understanding of weather forecasts and how to respond to various alerts. Equipped with mobile phones, the community representatives then pass on their knowledge to fishermen and traders to sign up to the Mobile Weather Alert service.
Thus far, the value of the Mobile Weather Alert forecast service is being confirmed. In a mobile-phone based survey, conducted by Grameen Foundation AppLab Uganda 96% of the 200 respondents said it has improved the safety of their lives.
Lake Victoria, being the world's second-largest freshwater lake, provides a livelihood, directly and indirectly, to over 3.5 million people. The lake supports Africa's largest inland fishery and produces over 800,000 tons of fish annually, currently worth about USD 600,000,0001, and reported estimates indicate that as many as 5,000 members of the fishing community die in boating accidents in the lake each year because they are unprepared for bad weather conditions.
1. LVFO (Lake Victoria Fisheries Organisation) http://www.lvfo.org/


text:
The Pentagon is knocking down old barriers to women serving in combat, but some already are in risky jobs. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta's order, signed Thursday, opens 238,000 new jobs to women.
A look at some of the dangerous jobs women can do now, and what will be open to them if they meet the qualifications:
PILOTS. In 1991, Congress ended a ban on women flying combat aircraft, and three years later the Air Force had its first woman commanding a fighter squadron. Women may fly every aircraft in the Air Force inventory, including bombers. Just last year, Col. Jeannie Flynn Leavitt became the Air Force's first female wing commander, commanding 5,000 airmen. Women also fly combat aircraft in the Army, Navy and Marine Corps.
The only Air Force jobs closed to women until now were special operations roles like enlisted pararescue and combat control officer. These jobs were opened Thursday by Panetta's order. As with all combat jobs, the military chiefs have until January 2016 to seek exemptions to bar women from certain jobs.
SUBS. The Navy in April 2010 opened submarine service to women, but only aboard the larger ballistic missile and guided-missile subs, where berthing is less of a privacy problem than on attack subs. On Thursday the Navy announced it is extending that to include attack subs; female officers will begin reporting for assignment on those subs in 2015. The Navy has kept female sailors off of frigates, patrol coastal craft and mine countermeasure ships until now.
MARINES. The decision announced Thursday to stop excluding women from ground combat roles means that about 35,000 Marine infantry slots would be opened to women, as long as they can meet the qualifications. Women already may serve in a variety of combat-related jobs in the Corps, including weapons repair officer. But they have been excluded from others like field artillery, forward air controller and combat engineer.
SOLDIERS. The Army has kept female officers out of many ground combat roles, including armor, infantry and special forces. For example, enlisted women could not be a cavalry scout or a fire support specialist, a position that is primarily responsible for the intelligence activities of the Army's field artillery teams. But they have been allowed to serve as a field artillery radar operator or a supervisor of Patriot air defense units.


text:
Just yesterday, I was wondering if I new some IP address of server of some external network, how can I connect to it?
I used telnet, but I think I wasnt able to use it properly.
Say, if some network server has an IP add., 203.xxx.xxx.xxx
how can I connect myself to it?


text:
There are many manufacturers of cement board siding and that include Certainteed (Weatherboards), James Hardie (Hardieplank) and Nichiha. Generally, you get cement board siding in thickness of a quarter inch in many different exposures or reveals from four to seven inches. In the past, cement board siding, also called fiber cement, was available only in raw or primed finish and needed to be painted after installation. In last few years, manufacturers have started offering factory painted planks. Most of them produce cement board siding that has a smooth finish or wood texture finish and offer it in lap mode (clapboard) or shingle mode.
The Advantages
Cement board siding has certain advantages over vinyl siding. It has more realistic and natural looks. Generally, it is thicker and therefore lasts longer.
Cement board siding also has some advantages over cedar clapboard or shingles. In the first place, it's not so expensive. It needs less maintenance and is not as prone to rotting or getting spoiled by pests.
The Disadvantages
Cement board siding has generally been considered a good siding, but of late it is reported to have some problems. When used near or against surfaces like landings, roofs or flat surfaces, it tends to suck in water and that causes it to delaminate. It is reported that irrespective of its being pre-painted or painted on the spot, this siding begins to peel off near surfaces exposed to humid conditions like water and snow or if it's not installed appropriately.
However, if appropriately installed, cement board siding still remains a worthwhile siding option. When considering replacement of your present siding, assess appropriate installation process and make sure that you hire the services of an expert contractor who is experienced in handling the type of siding that you propose to install. Don't be hasty and call whoever you find first or make a deal withing minutes. You need to have a strategy.
First, take a look at all the options you have online. Whenever you have time to sit down a bit or lie down on your couch with laptop, do some research. You can even do it while watching the news. It important you do this and take time to do it right. You have a lot of different contractors that advertise online. Take a look at what they offer. Then, find reviews about their work online. Or if you can't find reviews, find a forum where people talk about their experiences and what worked for them.
After you know which contractor could be best for you, take a look at different stores on the internet. See what prices they offer for different type of materials and tools, depending on what you need. Take your time, this is the best way to know about siding and get the best deal possible. The more informed you are, the easier it will be to get a lower price and high quality work done. Ok, after you figured out where you could buy the materials, it's time to make some calls.
Call the contractors and see how they sound to you. Know that you know more about the whole process, the prices and that you have experience of others, you can see through the talk contractors usually make with their customers. You will now easily choose the one that suits you best. And by saying this, I don't mean you should choose the one with the lowest price, but the contractor that will get the work done the way you want it to be done.
If you follow through these steps, I'm sure you'll have a perfect siding along with a few bucks left in your pocket. And a big grin on your face 😉


text:
Expedia-verified reviews
Don't miss out on a lower price on this hotel
Get an overview of this hotel3-star hotel with 3 restaurants and casino
Collecting Nectar Points
Simply enter your Nectar card number when you check out. Your points will be credited 35 days after you return from your trip.
*Terms and conditions apply.
Popular property highlights
Located in the heart of Fife, this hotel is 0.8 mi (1.2 km) from BJ's Bingo and within 6 miles (10 km) of Museum of Glass and Tacoma Dome. Wild Waves Water Park and Enchanted Village and Port of Tacoma are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Hotel features
3 restaurants, a casino and an outdoor pool are available at this smoke-free hotel. Free WiFi in public areas, free valet parking and a free casino shuttle are also provided. Additionally, a nightclub, 3 bars/lounges and a fitness centre are on-site.
Room amenities
All 102 rooms provide conveniences such as sofa beds and coffee makers, plus complimentary wireless Internet access and LCD TVs with cable channels. IPod docking stations, down comforters and free local calls are among the other amenities available to guests.
Languages Spoken
- English
Emerald Queen Hotel & Casino
Renovations & Closures
Hotel Amenities
Hotel Amenities
Emerald Queen Hotel & Casino features an outdoor pool and a fitness centre. Dining is available at one of the hotel's 3 restaurants. The property also offers a nearby corner/local shop. Guests can unwind with a drink at one of the hotel's 3 bars/lounges. Public areas are equipped with complimentary wireless Internet access.
Event facilities measuring 5603 square feet (521 square metres) include conference rooms. This business-friendly hotel also offers a casino, a nightclub and tour or ticket assistance. Complimentary self parking and valet parking are available on-site.
Emerald Queen Hotel & Casino is a smoke-free property.
- Casino
- Picnic area
- Lift
- Number of bars/lounges - 3
- Fitness facilities
- 24-hour front desk
- Conference space
- Grocery/convenience store
- Meeting rooms 3
- Tours/ticket assistance
- Free self parking
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Free WiFi
- Free valet parking
- Outdoor pool
- Smoke-free property
- Nightclub
- Conference space size (meters) - 521
- Luggage storage
- ATM/banking
- Breakfast available (surcharge)
- Number of restaurants - 3
- Conference space size (feet) - 5603
- Gift shops or newsstand
- Total number of rooms - 102
- Television in common areas
- Number of floors - 3
- Number of buildings/towers - 1
- Multilingual staff
- Free casino shuttle
Family Friendly Amenities
- Family Hotel
- Outdoor pool
- Free Wi-Fi
- Grocery/convenience store
- Sofa bed
- Cribs/infant beds (complimentary)
Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi
Languages Spoken
- English
- Spanish
Free self parking, Free valet parking
Room Amenities
- Connecting/adjoining rooms available
- Air conditioning
- In-room climate control (air conditioning)
- Phone
- Free local calls
- Premium TV channels
- Coffee/tea maker
- Hair dryer
- Shower/tub combination
- Iron/ironing board
- In-room safe
- Desk
- Sofa bed
- Cable TV service
- Daily housekeeping
- Down comforter
- Sofa bed size
- Rollaway/extra beds (free)
- Free cribs/infant beds
- iPod docking station
- Free WiFi
- Blackout drapes/curtains
Where to Eat
Cooked-to-order breakfasts are available for a surcharge and are served each morning.
Emerald Queen Hotel & Casino has 3 restaurants serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Nearby Things to Do
Recreational amenities at the hotel include an outdoor pool and a fitness centre.
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please note them at check-out when you book your room.
- Accessible bathroom
- Roll-in shower
- In-room accessibility
Hotel Policies
Check-in time starts at 3 PM
Minimum check-in age is 21
Special check-in instructions:
Check-out time is 11 AM
Payment types
Children and extra beds
- Children are welcome.
- Kids stay free! Children 17 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding.
- Free rollaway/extra beds!
- Free cribs (infant beds)!
- Pets are allowed for an extra charge of USD 25.00 per accommodation, per stay.
- Dogs only
- 2 per room (up to 25.0 lb)
- Specific rooms only
- Pet-friendly rooms can be requested by contacting the property on the number on the booking confirmation
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy.
- Minimum Spring Break check-in age is 21 years old. Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property. The policies listed are provided by the property.
- Deposit: USD 200.00 per stay
Optional extras
- Pet fee: USD 25.00 per accommodation, per stay
Hotel Name
- Emerald Queen Hotel Casino Fife
- Emerald Queen Hotel Casino
- Emerald Queen Casino Fife
- Emerald Queen Hotel Fife
- Emerald Queen Hotel And Casino
We should mention
Children aged 17 years old and younger stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding. The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation. This property allows pets in specific rooms only (surcharges apply and can be found in the Fees section). Guests can request one of these rooms by contacting the property directly, using the contact information on the booking confirmation.


text: I love college football, to me it is far and away the greatest sport. I live and breathe Gator Orange and Blue from September through January every year, and I love Saturdays in the Fall. My Gators took some important steps forward this season, and with another top five recruiting class headed to Gainesville, next year should be even better. Tonight, another season ends, with Notre Dame playing Alabama for the National Championship. And, as always, I will root like Hell for the SEC team, and yes, root against Notre Dame. The second best thing about college football is rooting against someone, the first is rooting your team of course. So, I watch tonight, with a bit of dread. The next eight months will see me longing for next September. Now, Roll Tide!


text:
Out of the Woodwork: To Rip or to Split?
Sometimes sawing isn't the smartest solution.
By Jim Tolpin
Page: 108
From the November 2004 issue #144
Buy this issue now
When I lived in Pennsylvania, an Appalachian furniture maker I met gave me this mystery to solve:
"Back near the turn of the last century, the new fire chief of Cumberland, Md., decided to replace one of the station's old and fire-singed wood ladders. Seeing he could obtain the ladder quicker and at a better price by ordering it from a commercial outfit in Philadelphia rather than hiring the job out to the usual supplier – an old orchard ladder maker who lived way back up a West Virginia hollow – he requisitioned the funds and made the purchase.
"When he brought the new ladder into the fire house, the lead fireman took one look at the ladder and said he would not set foot on it if his life depended on it. Which of course, it did in his line of work. The surprised chief looked closely at the ladder: the side rails were made of full length, defect-free white oak heartwood and the rungs were made of clear, hickory heartwood. All the joints were well done and securely fastened. Why, then, did the captain vehemently reject the chief's purchase?"
From the November 2004 issue #144
Buy this issue now


text:
NEW HAVEN, Conn. (AP) — A Connecticut man has been charged with assaulting novelist Colum McCann last month outside a hotel in New Haven.
Police said Tuesday that 34-year-old Michael Mott, of Oxford, was charged with assault in the June 28 encounter outside the Study Hotel.
Police say witness accounts suggest McCann tried to help a woman involved in a dispute in the hotel lobby. The "Let the Great World Spin" author was treated for significant facial injuries at Yale-New Haven Hospital.
Police say Mott confessed to assaulting McCann. A man who answered a phone listed with his address declined to comment.
Police say Mott had a dispute with his wife and McCann apparently asked if she needed help. Police say Mott punched McCann, who lost consciousness.


text:
Items where Person is "Aznar, R."
Group by: Item Type | No Grouping
Jump to: Article
Number of items: 1.
Michel, T. and Alvarez, L. and Sauvajol, Jean-Louis and Almairac, Robert and Aznar, R. and Mathon, O. and Bantignies, J.L. and Flahaut, Emmanuel Structural selective charge transfer in iodine-doped carbon nanotubes. (2006) Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids, vol. 6 (n° 5-6). pp. 1190-1192. ISSN 0022-3697


text:
As if the ghost of ballet's godfather Louis 14th himself had been stirred to action, ballet was suddenly everywhere. The New York Times launched a national blog about the dance form and the ballet movie The Black Swan plieted into theaters. A month earlier, the New York City Ballet launched a sexy ad campaign on subway billboards in the country's hub for all things dance.
I can't argue with Homans about the place of tradition in a remix world. But her announcement seemed particularly ill-timed. It coincided with the busiest season for most ballet companies in the western world – a period I like to call that Crazy Nutcracker Season.
In part because I wanted to check out Homans' thesis locally and also out of nostalgia, I made a pilgrimage this month back to the see The Nutcracker. I say "back" not because I grew up going to the ballet. But in the last 20 years, I've seen more than 30 productions of The Nutcracker – sometimes as a reviewer, sometimes as the parent of a snowflake. I rarely write reviews these days, and my little snowflake is now a biologist in graduate school – so I haven't been to The Nutcracker for a long time.
But not much has changed. And I don't necessarily mean the dancing. I mean the community spirit. On opening night of the Walnut Hill School's Nutcracker in Natick, the hall was packed with eager family members, teachers, students and little sisters wearing flouncy dresses all rooting for success more than perfection. No one cared when Drosselmeyer abracadabra-ed the holiday tree off the stage – and it whammed into a wall instead of into the wings.
Once, at a production in Maine, fake cannons spurted out a bit too much smoke and set off the theater's alarms. In minutes, the audience, the Sugar Plum Fairy, the Mouse King and Mother Ginger were all standing in the parking lot waiting for the system to be reset. Then the show went on, and no one cared about that extra bit of drama.
Even in a professional setting, such as Boston Ballet Company's Nutcracker, the mystical spirit of the dance form fills the grand hall. The little boy in front of me last week was seeing the show for the first time. He jostled excitedly between his parents, asking why Fritz was in trouble and did the mice get hurt? When Clara's dreamscape turned scary, he buried his head in his mother's shoulder. "It's just a terrible dream," she assured the boy. But it was very real to him.
For me, The Nutcracker has lost some of its glitter – not in the productions or the music but the story. This time, I saw a creepy older guy bullying a little girl – whose gilded family probably gets tax breaks this year. And I noticed the elements of war and violence more than ever before.
And yet, it would be a terrible dream, indeed, if ballet were to die. At its best, The Nutcracker and perhaps the unique magic of ballet are symbols of community life at its most generous and most elegant.
More Artscene
About the AuthorAlicia Anstead
Support for WGBH is provided by:Become a WGBH sponsor


text:
Tutoring goes online, real-time at UH West O'ahu's No'eau Center
New system allows important dialogue with studentsUniversity of Hawaiʻi-West Oʻahu
Ryan Mielke, (808) 454-4753
Executive Director of Public Affairs, Chancellor's Office
Executive Director of Public Affairs, Chancellor's Office
Posted: Apr 15, 2010
The University of Hawai'i - West O'ahu's No'eau Center for Writing, Math and Academic Success now offers an online tutoring platform to better assist students with writing, math and statistics assignments. Through the new Elluminate system, student tutors are able to conduct real-time dialogue with students online and more actively engage the University's large, distance-learning student population who live on the neighbor islands.
"With an increasing number of classes being offered online, we need to offer more and better online resources," said Director of the No'eau Center Dr. Emily Nye. "This works especially well for students who are off-island or can't make it to campus for a face-to-face tutoring session."
To access the new Elluminate tutoring system, students schedule an appointment at the center and log on to Elluminate by visiting http://www.uhwo.hawaii.edu/wlconlinehelp at the scheduled time. The Elluminate platform allows the student and student tutor to view the assignment on-screen. Both parties are able to type directly on the assignment and discuss strategies via a computer microphone or writing in a chat box.
"We are continually seeking ways to innovate and better serve our students," said Gene I. Awakuni, UH West O'ahu chancellor. "This new system provides for greater dialogue with our students. It's really the next best thing to being in the same room."
The No'eau Center for Writing, Math and Academic Success is also developing a series of audio podcasts that will eventually be available on the UH West O'ahu website. The Center provides academic support through tutoring and workshops that help students succeed at the University. Programs focus on life-long learning and the belief that all students are able to develop critical thinking and quantitative reasoning skills as they transition into the workforce. In addition to the classroom experience at UH West O'ahu, students benefit from individualized attention, working with small study groups and participating in innovative activities that promote learning and literacy. For more information about the UH West O'ahu No'eau Center for Writing, Math and Academic Success, visit http://www.uhwo.hawaii.edu/wlcenter.
About UH West O'ahu
UH West O'ahu became a four-year, comprehensive university when it served its first class of freshmen in fall 2007. The University offers quality education, small classes and personalized attention at convenient locations. UH West O'ahu held a ground blessing ceremony in January 2009 in anticipation of the start of construction for a state-of-the art, new campus in the City of Kapolei. For more information, visit uhwo.hawaii.edu, twitter.com/uhwestoahu, facebook.com/uhwestoahu or call 454-4700 or toll-free (866) 299-8656.


text:
Happy Feet (UK - DVD R2)
Chris Gould checks out the new Warner release of the recent animated feature...
Emperor penguins Memphis (Hugh Jackman) and Norma Jean (Nicole Kidman) are anxiously expecting their first-born, but when he arrives their son, Mumble, isn't quite what they expected. For hundreds of years the penguins have used their heart songs as a way to find their soul mates, but our little Mumble has a problem: he can't sing! Instead, Mumble exhibits a talent for dancing, specifically tap dancing, but this just doesn't sit well with the elders of the penguin community.
Blamed for the famine that is threatening the colony and branded an outcast, Mumble decides to leave his family behind to discover the real cause of the fish shortage. On the way he meets a number of colourful characters including the Amigos, a quartet of Adelie penguins led by the outrageous Ramon (Robin Williams). Together they travel further than any penguin has gone before in search of the mysterious 'aliens' that are stealing the fish, and Mumble learns to embrace his individuality to win the heart of his own soul mate, Gloria (Brittany Murphy).
It must have been a slow year in the animated movie world, because this Oscar-winning film is decidedly average. While I'm fully aware that I'm not really the target audience for such a cutesy film, I am fully capable of judging it by the standards set by other animated efforts. Simply put, when you take Happy Feet and compare it to something like, let's say, The Incredibles, it just doesn't hold up. It's as though the filmmakers couldn't make up their minds as to what sort of film they wanted to make, so they made two and just forgot to split them up.
The first seventy minutes or so are your standard animated fare, albeit incredibly longwinded and set to cheesy R&B music, while the final thirty minutes see the film morph into some kind of preachy cautionary tale about Man's disrespect for the environment. That could have been kind of interesting, but at the last minute the filmmakers bottle it and we're back to the stock happy ending where our anthropomorphic buddy Mumble saves the day with his mad tap dancing 'skillz'.
I mentioned above that the film takes around seventy minutes to get going, and I wasn't exaggerating. I understand the need to introduce the characters and set up some sort of obstacle for the protagonist to overcome, but seriously, there's a limit to the amount of time I'm willing to give to that as a viewer. There are just too many self-indulgent song and dance numbers in this section of the film. I wouldn't mind if they actually went somewhere or if the quality was a little higher, but they don't and it's not. It doesn't help that most of the songs are simply covers, rather than original pieces composed for the film.
As for the actors, well they do their best with what they're given, but that's about it. Wood and Murphy are fairly bland in the lead roles, while Nicole Kidman's Marilyn Monroe impersonation had me reaching for my imaginary rifle. Robin Williams delivers his usual 'whacky' performance, but it's nothing he hasn't done before and to greater effect in Aladdin. He performs dual roles in Happy Feet, which is cause for great delight or tremendous despair, depending on your point of view. Had the dialogue been snappier and the narrative less confused things might have been better, but it seems that the filmmakers thought this one could sail by on the adorably cute penguins doing adorably cute things.
Presented in its theatrical aspect ratio of 2.40:1 and enhanced for 16:9 displays, Happy Feet looks very, very good indeed. The animation is simply breathtaking, with thousands of penguins littering the screen, all looking about as photo-realistic as you could want (from an animated penguin). One of the most visually impressive sequences sees Mumble and the Amigos 'body-surfing' over the Antarctic landscape and crashing through huge banks of snow before plummeting into the ocean, but the digital-to-digital transfer handles this with comparative ease. Obviously there are no film artefacts to contend with, but neither are there any other major issues. In fact, the only negative comments I can make relate to a little posterisation and some minor edge enhancement. Still, these 'flaws' weren't particularly obvious when watching on a 32" display, and I had to examine the video closely to spot them. It seems churlish to deduct points for such minor blemishes, so I'm going to go ahead and award top marks for video.
The disc features a solid Dolby Digital 5.1 EX track that takes a little time to get going, but manages a few surprises when it does. Even in the early stages everything is perfectly acceptable, with some nice discrete effects creating a generous amount of ambience (such as the chattering of penguins in the rears in large group shots). Dialogue also remains perfectly clear throughout, which is especially important in a musical, where vocals can often be drowned out. I was initially a little concerned by the relative weakness of the bass (this is a 384Kbps track), but as the film progressed the howling, all-encompassing blizzards and creaking, cracking ice flows restored my faith. It might not be reference quality stuff, but all-in-all this is a decent track.
We open with two deleted scenes, 'Mumble Meets a Blue Whale' and 'A Happy Feet Moment'. The first features a short introduction by director George Miller, in which he explains that the scene was completed for the DVD as a tribute to the late Steve Irwin, who voiced one of the characters. The second is only around thirty seconds long, and features Mumble being kicked around by another penguin. It's very odd.
Next up is a featurette entitled 'Dance Like a Penguin: Stomp to the Beat'. This is hosted by Savion Glover, who acted as a dancer and co-choreographer on the film. Glover gets off to a bad start by mispronouncing the word 'especially' (sorry to be so picky, but it's a pet hate of mine), and then goes on to tell us how we can sing with our feet. Now I know this DVD is aimed at kids, but I'm pretty sure 'singing with your feet' is more commonly known as dancing. Anyway, there is around five minutes of footage of Glover tap dancing and chatting, and he's even joined by Mumble near the end.
Oh joy, another featurette on tap dancing! 'Creating the Tap' runs for a little under five minutes and includes more interview footage with Savion Glover, George Miller and choreographer Kelley Abbey as they discuss the process of bringing the tap dancing penguin to life. This is your typical promotional featurette, so you can expect lots of self-congratulatory backslapping with very little insight into the actual creative process.
'Behind the Scenes of Happy Feet' is a thirteen-minute featurette that details the film's story through various interviews with the cast and crew. This featurette is slightly more revealing than anything else on the disc, with behind-the-scenes footage of the actors recording their dialogue and such, but don't expect anything too insightful. Basically, it's fluffier than Mumble himself.
'Somebody to Love' is the music video for the song sung by none other than Brittany Murphy, who played Gloria. The piece is basically a mixture of scenes from the film and behind-the-scenes footage of Ms. Murphy performing the song in the studio (pulling some interesting faces as she does so), and she actually has a half decent voice. It's not really a music video, but what the hell.
Finally, the disc mentions some DVD-Rom content, but at the time of writing I couldn't access it. Now that's either because it hasn't gone live yet or because the crappy Interactual software isn't working properly (I suspect the latter), but either way I don't know what the content is.
I don't hate Happy Feet, I'm just extremely indifferent towards it. There's nothing here that hasn't been seen before in superior movies ( Finding Nemo immediately springs to mind), and I just didn't find myself caring for the characters and their plight. As I've already acknowledged, I'm not the target audience for the film, which is why the last thirty minutes or so are so confusing. My four-year-old niece loves it, as do my friends' kids of a similar age, but they're not really up on social issues. I guess it can be argued that the message has been included for all of the adults that take their kids along to the film, but it sends a very mixed message. Are we only to care about the penguins because they can tap dance?
Technically the DVD is actually pretty good, with excellent audio-visual presentation and a smattering of passable extras. I've become so disenfranchised with the rubbish that passes for bonus content these days that I'm probably not as critical as I should be, but the fact of the matter is that a few fluffy promotional featurettes and a couple of deleted scenes is about par for the course nowadays. The filmmakers saw fit to make a film with a half-arsed environmental message, but it's not reflected in the supplemental material. Had there been some in-depth information on the plight of the penguins it might have helped to improve the overall score. Still, this is a no-brainer purchase for fans of the film (the under tens), and I fully expect to see it rocketing up the sales charts in the coming weeks.
Review by Chris Gould
Suitable for all
Disc Details
Release Date: 26th March 2007
Discs: 1
Disc Type: Single side, dual layer
RCE: No
Video: PAL
Aspect: 2.40:1
Anamorphic: Yes
Colour: Yes
Audio: Dolby Digital 5.1 EX English
Subtitles: English, English HoH
Extras: Deleted Scenes: 'Mumble Meets a Blue Whale' and 'A Happy Feet Moment', 'Dance Like a Penguin: Stomp to the Beat', 'Creating the Tap' Featurette, 'Behind the Scenes of Happy Feet' Featurette, 'Somebody to Love' Music Video by Brittany Murphy, DVD-Rom Content
Easter Egg: No
Feature Details
Director: George Miller
Cast: Elijah Wood, Brittany Murphy, Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman, Hugo Weaving, Robin Williams, Anthony LaPaglia
Genre: Adventure and Animation
Length: 104 minutes
6Review Guide
Award Details
Follow our updates
Released Soon
Sicario: Day of the Soldado US - DVD R1 | BD RA Kino Lorber Dan Curtis Announcements US - DVD R1 | BD RA Don't Worry, He Won't Get Far on Foot US - DVD R1 | BD RA Prehystaria US - BD RA Eighth Grade US - DVD R1 | BD RA
Past Reviews
Cat O' Nine Tails US - BD RA Automatons US - DVD R1 Cujo US - BD The Monster Squad US - BD Once Were Warriors UK - BD RB
Hot News
Superman: The Movie US - BD RA Piglet's Big Movie UK - DVD R2 Gas US - DVD R1 BlacKkKlansman US - DVD R1 | BD RA Ant-Man and The Wasp US - DVD R1 | BD RA
Most Talked About
Bound: Olive Signature Collection US - BD RA Arrow November Releases US - BD RA Don't Worry, He Won't Get Far on Foot US - DVD R1 | BD RA Minute to Pray, A Minute to Die, A US - BD RA Shout Factory Updates US - BD RA


text:
BMW gets inside people's heads.
Aaron Starkman takes McCann global head Rob Reilly to task for a harsh rejection. But don't worry. It's only f-in' advertising.
Anishinaabe artist Lisa Jackson brings a striking vision to life in her VR work, Biidaaban.
The Dallas Stars go old school for Seguin.
Quality creative, or high-concept trolling?
Canada is set to challenge the world's best chefs in a tasty cook off next year.
New York's Hello Velocity has designed a typeface consisting of 76 corporate brand logos.


text:
Reviewed by J.D.H. (age 8)
I like this book because the girl wasn't afraid of Boogie Bones. I also like this story because the pictures were really funny and made me laugh especially when Boogie started dancing and lost his disguise. I liked this book because I really like music and love to dance too.
I recommend anyone in second grade read this funny book. I also think it would be fun to read during Halloween.


text:
The Princess Bride: Prepare to Die! Party Game
Hello, my name is . . .
- Make the best "prepare to die" reason and win, in this crazy Princess Bride card game.
- Example: "Hello. My name is Wil Wheaton. You drank my milkshake. Prepare to die."
- One of the best party games from one of the best movies ever!
He'd followed the man with six fingers for almost all his life. Finally, when the chance presented itself, he was met with a knife in the stomach and wounds in both shoulders. But he had a mantra; a phrase he had practiced as long as he'd practiced revenge. He repeated it over and over and it gave him strength. And now, even though we were warned not to once, we're going to mock his pain in The Princess Bride: Prepare to Die! Party Game.
Game play is very simple in The Princess Bride: Prepare to Die! Party Game. The judge of the round (this position rotates) lays down a "My name is . . . " card. It could be Abraham Lincoln, Bilbo Baggins, Wil Wheaton, or a number of other famous and/or beloved people. Everyone then selects the "Prepare to die!" card from their hand which they think is the funniest combination. There are so many reasons your adversaries should prepare (from stealing mushrooms to drinking milkshakes), that you'll be peeing yourself with glee with each and every round. The judge picks a winner, points are awarded, a new judge is decreed, and the next round of The Princess Bride: Prepare to Die! Party Game begins. Just be careful if you play this with Sicilians (especially if death's on the line).
The Princess Bride: Prepare to Die! Party Game
- For Ages 8 and up.
- Construct crazy combinations in the hilarious, Princess Bride party game!
- Two decks of cards ("Hello, my name is . . . " deck and "Prepare to die!" deck).
- For 3-10 players.
- Average game time is about 15 mins.
- Includes: 276 cards and rule book.


text:
peladoboton wrote:dien2liv wrote:Elitism: so im at the crag in NW Arkansas last weekend. just got my first set of cams and I think this was the second time using them (not the first time trad climbing) so they were nice and shinny. as we were leaving, we pass a group guys from Fayetteville working some 5.12. we stopped to watch as this guy flashed the route and came down. I complimented him on the climb and so on and he replied back about how shinny my cams were and just generally made us feel unwelcome. Then his friend asked us where we were from. when they realized we were from Missouri, they proceeded to tell us how missouri climbers cause all kinds of problems with access and trespassing issues. im no 5.12 climber but i love climbing and what should it matter where im from and how strong I am. Never felt like climbing could be elitist until then.
my buddies i was climbing with this last weekend off of the Ruth Glacier bumped into Fred Beckey in his camp in front of Mt Dickey. he, the most accomplished climber in North America, was excited as heck to talk with them, and gave them all sorts of props and encouragement.
that is how the game is to be played, as played by one of the great masters, says i.
Fixed that for you, if you indeed meant Mr. Beckey.


text:
Find information on state, local, tribal, and federal government information and services. Learn more about Minnesota Government and its elected officials.
Information on all three branches of Minnesota State government.
Local Government
Find city, county and township web sites. Also included are links to other local government organizations.
Tribal Government
In Minnesota, there are seven Anishinaabe (Chippewa, Ojibwe) reservations and four Dakota (Sioux) communities. Find links to the websites of those communities that have websites. Also included are links to other valuable resources.
Federal Government
The American system of government is established by the United States Constitution, which provides for three separate but equal branches of government - executive, legislative and judicial. Together, these branches make, execute and interpret the laws that govern our country.
Laws and Rules
Minnesota, Federal and other states' laws and rules. Also included is a link to other resources such as Native American tribal codes.
Voting and Elections
Information on Minnesota's political parties, voting and redistricting.