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Cam Newton had such an incredible rookie season that many were already prepared to enshrine him in Canton, Ohio — take it easy with the Hall of Fame talk, trendsetters. But after a subpar start to his sophomore campaign, Newton suddenly had more naysayers than believers.
The cycle has once again come full circle for the enigmatic quarterback, though. Newton has led the Panthers to three wins over their last four games, and he's rapidly reemerged as the Pro Bowl-caliber quarterback he proved to be in 2011.
After a putrid start to 2012, which included a 2-8 record and Newton tossing more interceptions (10) than touchdowns (nine), last season's Offensive Rookie of the Year has himself and his team back on the right track.
Since their heartbreaking overtime loss to the Buccaneers in Week 11, Newton has thrown nine touchdown passes, rushed for three more and hasn't turned the ball over at all while the Panthers have gone 3-1. His broad skill set has helped Carolina take a major leap forward as the season winds down, and if his hot streak continues over the final two weeks, it may have even saved head coach Ron Rivera's job.
Newton isn't the most likeable guy around the league. His Pro Bowl peers, at least, didn't seem to appreciate his "diva attitude." But whether popular or not, Cam has developed a reputation as a dangerous offensive weapon.
Even if Robert Griffin III doesn't like the comparisons drawn between him and Newton, the two are similar in that both are dynamic and extremely unique quarterbacks.
RG3 combines track-star speed on the ground and incredible precision as a passer, while Newton brings his monstrous size, bulldozing force and impressive arm strength. Both make for dangerous concoctions, which typically keep opposing defenses on their heels.
Where Griffin was excelling in almost all facets of the game earlier this season, Newton was struggling just to keep any single element of his game in line. The turnaround seemed to be prompted by a 22-point beating at the hands of Peyton Manning and the Broncos in front of the home crowd at Bank of America Stadium.
Since then, Newton has been stellar with both his arm and legs, and even more importantly he's kept Carolina in every game late (including two losses which were both decided by less than a touchdown).
The most telling piece of Newton's transformation is that this doesn't appear to be the same Cam from a season ago, or even earlier this season. He's seemed to improve as a passer, develop more confidence in his decision making and has just matured as a player overall.
It was exactly three months ago when Cam sat pouting on the sidelines like a little child after throwing three interceptions in a blowout loss to the Giants. That is the sort of the immaturity that has seen elite-level talents wasted — ahem, JaMarcus Russell, Ryan Leaf, anyone?
The fact is that Newton is an elite talent. There's no debate about it. He's 6-foot-5, 245 pounds and runs a sub-4.7 40-yard dash. But his maturity is his Achilles heel, and it just so happens to be his biggest detriment to reaching that elite level of play.
But if he continues to develop confidence — not the pompous attitude that can be seen in his Superman touchdown celebration — and mature as both a person and a teammate, then the possibilities are endless.
Pro Bowl selections, MVP awards and even Super Bowl titles are all well within his reach. The only question that remains is whether Newton can get out of his own way, because Cam can be either his greatest asset or his worst nightmare. Now which one is it going to be?
Have a question for Luke Hughes? Send it to him via Twitter at @LukeFHughes or send it here.
Pick Six — The six biggest Trendsetters of the past week in the NFL
1. Mark Sanchez, QB, Jets: Down — This guy has seen the highest of the highs and the lowest of the lows. Now he's fallen out of favor in NY and likely will find his way out of town. He'd only be so lucky.
2. Russell Wilson, QB, Seahawks: Up — While Sanchez continues to throw away — quite literally — every chance he's had in New York, Wilson is make the most of his in Seattle. He's a touchdown machine of late — 11 total in his last five games — and he has the Seahawks peaking just in time for the playoffs.
3. Victor Cruz, WR, Giants: Up — The NFL responded to the tragedy in Newtown, Conn. with a terrific remembrance of all the victims over the weekend. Cruz went even beyond that, writing the names of victims on his shoes and planning to go visit with a family directly affected by the tragedy. He's a pretty amazing guy.
4. Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings: Up — In this week's edition of the Adrian Peterson power rankings, a mere 212 rushing yards impresses quarterback Christian Ponder, who hasn't thrown for that many yards in over a month.
5. Detroit Lions: Down — How far the mighty have fallen. It's almost unbelievable that this team was in the playoffs just last season. After a 28-point trouncing from the Cardinals on Sunday, the Lions are riding a six-game losing streak and the fans are about ready to break out the paper bags. Yeesh.
6. Ricky Stanzi, QB, Chiefs: Up -- Matt Cassell and Brady Quinn just haven't been getting it done. Now, the Chiefs may turn to the 2011 fifth-round pick for some offensive relief. Kansas City, it's time to "Stanz Up!"


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Every once in a while I will google search myself. No, I am not a narcissist, but it helps me keep tabs on how I am managing my art and its publicity. Imagine my surprise today when I found out that I could buy a reproduction print of my own art work from a company based out of Russia.
Did anyone ever contact me from this company asking me to use the image of my work? No.
Did anyone ever ask me if I wanted to make cheap reproduction prints of my work? No.
At no point in time did I give anyone permission to use my works for any reproduction or copying purposes. Now, I obviously have given galleries permission to use my art work for promotion purposes when I have done shows, but I have specifically and purposefully avoided contests or shows wherein I would have given away the legal rights to my work to the companies involved.
So now I have a company in Russia, illegally using my work to make cheap, unauthorized copies for profit. Nice. Assholes.
I had considered at one point having reproductions run of a few select pieces. The company I had discussed this with based out of Toronto came highly recommended by a friend in the business and was a high end facility who makes extremely high quality products. The process to make such a product was very involved, use specialized high end scanners of the original work etc etc. I chose against doing this for the moment due to the inherent costs involved with making a beautiful high quality reproduction. Had I wanted to make cheap low end prints, I am sure I could have, however that was not I wanted for myself, my art or my potential customers.
The fact is, when we buy prints at a low cost, inevitably we are getting what we pay for in terms of quality. I can guarantee you that this company did not scan the original work, but rather lifted the photo image of it from either this web page or my Facebook page (or someone else's if they decided to share something that they liked with their friends). So, the quality of the image is not there when you buy this way. As well, the original artist likely has no clue that there are reproductions of their work being sold off at discounted rates. The artist (even while they may be credited for the original image-and my name is ANN not ANNA thank you oh so much) receives no proceeds from the sales of these cheap reproductions from these companies. Why should some company in Russia (or wherever) reap the profits from my artistic property when they are illegally stealing what came out of my head, created with my hands.
I am not naive enough to believe that people don't take images off the net for their own purposes. It's part of the hazards when you post anything. That said,someone pinning my work to Pinterest, a student using it for a project, an artist using it for their own inspiration is one thing, a company stealing it to profit off it, something altogether different.
So, lessons learned. Always search for your own work once you have put it out there, whether it's images or words. Google yourself, image titles, or phrases to see just where your work has ended up, who is using it and how it is being used. If you are buying works of art or reproductions, always google the original artist to see if the original work is available (and what it looks like to compare-because if you check out the image in high def on their web site it is a joke and I sure as hell would not buy it even for that cheap price because it looks like a cheap photocopy compared to the original piece). When at all possible, see if the artist is offering prints or reproductions of the piece. Chances are, you may pay a few more dollars for it, but the quality of what you will be getting will be highly superior to some cheap run off version. And remember, yes it's great to get new art, but it's also important to support the artists who create these phenomenal images, whether it's buying the original or copies that the artist supports.
As for that web site, please do NOT purchase any of "my art" from Images2Love as I did not give them permission to use my art for any purpose whatsoever. When you compare th"detailed" image they offer to the original painting, the run off is truly crap in comparison. This is artistic theft plain and simple. If you are interested in my Northern Lights Shoreline, contact me directly.

subset: commoncrawl


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Open Door is proud to partner with The Mailbox Club to offer a bible study that can be completed right at home.
The lessons are free, and may be completed at your own pace. You'll receive each lesson in the mail to complete and return.
For more information, please contact the church office.
To learn more about The Mailbox Club, visit www.mailboxclub.org.
If you have questions about The Mailbox Club, please contact us.


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text: fiction Archive To Buy a House in the Jungle Posted in Fiction books by Meg White Every once in a while, when I'm reading something wholly unrelated to work, I come across the most interesting insights into property ownership. This week I've been wading through the terrifying, foul-smelling world of Upton Sinclair's The Jungle. The... Read More → By Meg White February 25, 2014 Fiction books Portrait of a Real Estate Broker as New Englander Posted in Book Excerpts by Meg White Check out this funny, touching new novel starring a real estate broker dealing with alcoholism, love, and life in a small New England town.... Read More → By Meg White February 5, 2013 Book Excerpts Some Like It Hot: Romance Fiction ♥s Real Estate Posted in Being a REALTOR® by Meg White A vacation just isn't a vacation without a good novel. While the news junkie in me gobbles nonfiction by the pound, that genre seems somehow ill-suited to the beach. In preparing to soak up some sun this Labor Day... Read More → By Meg White August 27, 2012 Being a REALTOR® From Million-Dollar Listings to Solving Murder Mysteries Posted in Author Q & A by Erica Christoffer By Erica Christoffer, Multimedia Web Producer, REALTOR® Magazine Vicki Doudera started gathering fodder for her mystery novels from day-one of her first real estate class back in 2003. Real estate intrigued and inspired her. She remembers sitting in the... Read More → By Erica Christoffer February 2, 2012 Author Q & A Author Chat: Mystery Writer and Real Estate Pro Nancy Kille Posted in Author Q & A by Blog Contributor By Erica Christoffer, Contributing Editor, REALTOR® Magazine Real estate professional Regan McHenry is about to close on the house of her client's dreams. But when the seller turns up dead, suspicions lead Regan to the center of a murder... Read More → By Blog Contributor July 23, 2009 Author Q & A Author Chat: Fatal Fixer-Upper Novelist Bente Gallagher Posted in Being a Broker by Melissa Tracey By Melissa Dittmann Tracey The Weekly Book Scan caught up with real estate pro and author Bente Gallagher (a.k.a. Jennie Bentley) to talk about her new novel, Fatal Fixer-Upper (Berkley Prime Crime, 2008), a do-it-yourself mystery centered around a... Read More → By Melissa Tracey December 9, 2008 Being a Broker Author Chat: Real Estate Pro-Novelist Devin O'Branagan Posted in Being a Broker by Melissa Tracey By Melissa Dittmann Tracey The new fiction novel, Red Hot Property (Infinity Publishing, 2008), follows the adventures of four rookie real estate agents as they embark on their careers, juggling work demands and weaving their way through the mystery... Read More → By Melissa Tracey September 15, 2008 Being a Broker


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Ashleigh Johns Customer Service Officer
Ashleigh is Can:Do Hearings youngest team member, joining the Group in 2015.
Having recently graduated from Cardijn College, she is currently taking a gap year to work in the not-for-profit sector to gain work experience in client services and paediatric support services. Ashleigh is hoping to become a primary school teacher, but before that, she hopes to travel the world to gain more knowledge and experience.
Ashleigh is currently based at our Blackwood and City clinics, and will eventually work across the rest of the Group going forward.
Ashleigh enjoys her sport. She particularly loves netball and started playing at the tender age of five years. She has enjoyed great success, making both the state and national teams.
When not playing netball, Ashleigh loves to go camping and has just recently picked up an interest in water skiing with her partner.
The Can:Do Attitude that Ashleigh feels most connected to is: Caring


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DCP Amendments and New Contributions Plan adopted
Amendments to Mosman Development Control Plans (DCPs) and a new Contributions Plan have been adopted by Council at its meeting on 5 June 2018. Amended Mosman DCPs Development Control Plans (DCPs) are plans adopted by Council to support the Mosman Local Environmental Plan 2012 and provide more detailed planning and design guidelines. The DCPs apply .. read more
An amendment to Mosman LEP 2012 has been published on the NSW Legislation website
What has changed? This amendment revises the LEP in respect of archaeological sites by In Schedule 5 Environmental heritage: clearly identifying the location of archaeological sites to ensure their conservation and transparency of information omitting some archaeological sites found to have no heritage significance combining the listings of some sites which had been duplicated On the .. read more
Archaeological Sites Amendments to the LEP
Proposed amendments to archaeological sites considered at Council meeting Council's proposal to amend the listing of archaeological sites identified in Mosman Local Environmental Plan 2012 (the LEP) was considered at the Council Meeting held on 3 May 2016. This proposal seeks to include more specific site and property information in the LEP in relation to .. read more
Heritage Amendments to Mosman LEP 2012
At the Council Meeting on 3 May 2016, Council resolved to make some amendments to Mosman Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2012 in respect of Mosman's heritage: To correct an error in the heritage listing of Item I291 'Group of Shops' by removing this listing from 37 Spofforth Street, Mosman, and applying this listing to the .. read more
Bushland Sites Rezoning – Public Exhibition
Council is proposing to amend the Mosman Local Environmental Plan 2012 (the LEP) to rezone 16 bushland sites from RE1 – Public Recreation to E2 – Environmental Conservation. The sites proposed to be rezoned were part of a thorough review and assessment of bushland sites in Mosman that was undertaken between January 2014 and May .. read more
Mosman's Archaeological Sites: Public Exhibition
Former tram infrastructure, wharves, quarries and other relics of early European settlement in Mosman during the 1800s and early 1900s are protected by heritage provisions in Mosman Local Environmental Plan 2012 (the LEP). There are currently 16 archaeological sites listed in the LEP, based on research undertaken during the mid-1990s. Requirements for heritage listing have .. read more
Public Exhibition: Heritage Item I291
An amendment to Mosman Local Environmental Plan 2012 (MLEP 2012) is proposed to correct an error in the heritage listing of Item I291 'Group of Shops'. Currently, 37 Spofforth Street (Lot 2, Sec B, DP 2365) is identified in MLEP 2012 as a heritage item – Item I291 'Group of Shops' of local heritage significance. .. read more
Update on Planning Proposals
A planning proposal is the means by which an amendment to Mosman Local Environmental Plan 2012 may be made. These are prepared by Council and submitted to the Department of Planning and Environment for approval to exhibit. There are a number of planning proposals currently being prepared by the Urban Planning team: A planning proposal to .. read more
Review of bushland zonings in Mosman
Over the last 18 months, we have been reviewing the zoning of bushland areas in Mosman currently zoned RE1 Public Recreation with a view to rezoning suitable sites to E2 Environmental Conservation. The majority of bushland areas zoned RE1 are unmade road reserves. Mosman has 84 sections of bushland unmade road assets. Unmade roads are .. read more
Update on Mosman Civic Centre Needs Analyis
The Needs Analysis for Mosman's Civic Centre has been completed. A report (EP/63) was presented to Council on 2 December discussing the Needs Analysis and the next steps in the process. At that meeting Council resolved to place on public exhibition concepts for Mosman's Civic Centre site that: Provide improved facilities for the Mosman community, .. read more


text: 1 of 2 Winco W15PTOS PTO Tractor Driven Generator 515 RPM $1962 Free shipping Home » PTO Power Take Off Generators Winco W15PTOS PTO Tractor Driven Generator 515 RPM $1962 Free shipping 1 of 2 (Enlarge) Winco W15PTOS PTO Tractor Driven Generator 515 RPM $1962 Free shipping Winco W15PTOS 15kw Tractor Driven PTO generator. EPA/CARB approved, CSA approved. MODEL W15PTOS, Power Rating: 15,000 Watts, A/C Output: 120/240 Volts, Cont. Current Rating: 60 Amps, Motor Starting Ability: 8 hp, Generator Speed: 3600 rpm, Shaft Diameter: 1 3/8 in. - 6 spline, Input Drive Speed: 515 rpm, Tractor HP Required: 30. Shipping weight 255 lbs. Free shipping. Features You have already purchased your compact tractor so there is no reason for you to be sitting in the dark while the power is out. The WINCO W15PTOS is a durably constructed generator that is designed to increase the versatility of compact tractors by providing reliable and clean electrical power to your home, business or farm. MODEL W15PTOS Power Rating: 15,000 Watts A/C Output: 120/240 Volts Cont. Current Rating: 60 Amps Motor Starting Ability: 8 hp Generator Speed: 3600 rpm Shaft Diameter: 1 3/8 in. - 6 spline Input Drive Speed: 515 rpm Tractor HP Required: 30 Generator Construction 100% copper windings Clean power at less than 5% total harmonic distortion Skewed rotors Heavy duty capacitors and diodes Gear Box Cast iron gear case (we don't use aluminum gear cases) Oil level sight glass Other Features Large voltmeter makes adjustments from the tractor quick and easy NEMA 14-60 full power receptacle Full power plug ships with the generator Sturdy steel frame protects receptacles Power Rating-Cont (watts) 15000 Voltage 120/240 1-PH Amps Cont. 1.0 PF 62 Amps Cont. .8 PF N/A Receptacles 2xNEMA 5-20R (120V) 1xNEMA 14-60R (120/240V) Full Power Receptacle Included Full Power Plug (Included) NEMA 14-60 Recommended Tractor PTO HP 30 PTO Input Speed 515 RPM Motor Starting 5 hp Dimensions 37x19x20 in Shipping Weight 242 Warranty 1 yr Accessories The SA11310 PTO shaft fits the Winco W10/15PTOS. It is rated for 43HP and will last as long as your Winco generator. Power Rating 15kW Operating Speed 540 RPM Generator Connection 1-3/8" 6 spline Tractor Connection 1-3/8" 6 spline Shaft HP Rating 43 PTO Trailer TDM76. Note free shipping with a W10PTOS/W15PTOS generator, otherwise add $99.00 shipping. Designed to work with the W10/15PTOS, this 2-wheel off-road trailer allows you to easily move your PTO generator around to different locations if needed. Shipping weight 70 lbs. PTO Shaft for W15PTOS Add W15PTOS Shaft SA11310 (+$240.00) Trailer for W15PTOS Add Small PTO Trailer Kit TDM76 (+$300.00) List Price: $2,320.00Price: $1,962.00 « Previous | Next »


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Do you recall? Back on Feb. 2 groundhog General Beauregard Lee predicted and early spring. He was right on target.
This year it seems that winter forgot to put in an appearance. Mild Fall temperatures blended into Spring and the whole season is so early that it is throwing metro-Atlanta landscapes off a little. Now is a great time to phone your Crabapple LandscapExpert Rep to discuss major league spring training of the properties you manage.
- There was no snowfall this year and only 3 nights in the 20s or teens
- Planting and transplanting trees and shrubs continued every month (October, November, December, January, February, March)
- Daffodil bulbs planted as late as the end of January grew great roots quickly and are already blooming
- Now all the flowers are blooming at once and overlapping their seasons. Camellias at the same times as roses; daffodils and dahlias, flowering cherries and summer annuals all at once
- Likewise, pines, hardwoods and flowering trees, along with pollen from grasses, are all coming into bloom at once, creating a perfect storm for pollen sufferers.
- Weeds got an early start in turf and landscape beds (and some never died off from last fall)
- Fungus and mold growth got a good start in the warm, rainy winter
- Insects wintered over more easily so populations are bigger than normal
- Winter pruning is blending into spring (crape myrtles, grasses, groundcovers)
- Turf scalping is already in demand
- Fertilization to strengthen new growth is early
- Pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides are suggested for lawns and plant beds all at once
- Additional pesticide treatments may be advisable for ornamental shrubs and trees
- In some instances irrigation is already needed, and systems will need to be checked and turned on properly
We are rolling up our sleeves to provide our clients with the best landscape maintenance services available. Your Crabapple LandscapExperts are here to advise you and recommend the landscape maintenance services are needed to keep the landscape looking great!


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Add beauty and warmth to your décor with the addition of this brushed nickel ceiling light with eye-catching Mountain Retreat giclee shade.More Details >
This semi-flushmount ceiling light features an exclusive Giclee Glow translucent shade showcasing a scene from the Thomas Kinkade painting "Mountain Retreat". The high-quality material allows light to shine through the shade, illuminating the pattern and creating a spectacular look. A white acrylic diffuser at the bottom prevents glare and provides even lighting. This stylish fixture is custom made to order. U.S. Patent # 7,347,593.


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Need Someone to Install a Stove?
Find a Reliable Installer Today.
Quick, Free Service, No Obligation!
How to Buy a Pellet Stove
Published Sep. 19, 2013
By Chris Brooks
Pellet stoves provide heat for your home by burning small pellets formed from wood chips and other natural waste. Pellet stoves can offer high combustion and heating efficiency for the homeowner, with a combustion efficiency rate of 75 to 85 percent. However, potential buyers do need to consider the installation and operation costs, as well as the higher upfront costs as compared to wood-burning stoves, and the appropriate size pellet stove need to heat their home.
How Does a Pellet Stove Work?
Each pellet stove comes equipped with a hopper that holds the pellets to be burned. A feeder drops a few pellets into the combustion chamber at a time to be burned. The owner can use the controls to determine the feed rate of the pellets. Hoppers can contain anywhere between 35 to 130 pounds of pellets at any given time. Consumer Reports lists the cost of pellets as being higher than traditional wood and natural gas, but below the costs of oil and electric space heaters. Of course, oil and gas prices fluctuate greatly and are hard to predict. Before buying, be sure that you have a pellet supplier nearby.
Fans help to circulate the air from the pellet stove, and should be considered before buying, to make sure the fan doesn't prove too noisy. Some pellet stoves even have thermostats that the owner can use to control the heat. The downside of these controls is the replacement cost should they stop working.
Sizing and Power Considerations
Pellet stoves can be purchased to heat an entire home, but most owners use them as supplemental heat in common areas of a home. You will need 25 to 30 BTU of heat for every square foot of space that you want to heat. These stoves are available in sizes ranging from 8,000 to 90,000 BTU per hour.
Efficiency ratings are provided by some manufacturers: Lennox Hearth models are generally in the 80-percent range, and most Thelin models list efficiency ratings in the 70-percent range. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states: "Some pellet stove models are subject to the wood stove regulations, while others are exempt due to a high air to fuel ratio. Pellet stoves are assigned a default efficiency rate of 78 percent." In comparison, EPA rates wood-burning stoves with a default efficiency of 72 percent, for catalytic stoves, or 63 percent, for non-catalytic stoves.
Potential pellet stove owners must realize that most pellet stoves do require electricity for the controls, fans and pellet feeder. The electricity usage is not very high, but the stove will not provide heat if the power goes out. Owners may want to investigate options such as battery or generator back-up power for such occurrences.
Ease of Installation and Operation
Homeowners can choose from two types of pellet stoves: fireplace inserts and freestanding stoves. Although professional installation is recommended for either type, a pellet stove can prove easier to install than a traditional wood-burning stove because, unlike wood-burning stoves, many pellet stoves can be vented horizontally through the exterior wall. This is usually the least expensive installation option.
Other installation options for pellet stoves include horizontal venting with a vertical venting backup; vertical venting through the ceiling and roof; or venting into an existing chimney. The installer can price these various options for you when performing a site estimate. Some dealers charge a fee to examine your site and provide an estimate of the installation costs. At that time, be sure to ask for a parts and installation cost breakdown in writing. Installation costs can range from $500 on up, before including the costs of venting and additional parts.
Once installed, pellet stoves are easier to operate than traditional wood-burning stoves. Typically, the owner pours pellets in the hopper once a day, and then cleans out the ashes every few days. Pellets often can be purchased locally, and in large quantities, to save money. Popular Mechanics reports that most households use between two and three tons of pellets per winter, so buyers can use those figures to calculate costs.
Popular Brands of Pellet Stoves
The Alliance for Green Heat, a non-profit organization, suggests that wood-burning stoves are usually less expensive than pellet stoves, due to "their simpler and thus more affordable stove designs." Still, numerous options in BTU range, price and aesthetics are available from a variety of pellet stove manufacturer. Harman's freestanding pellet stoves are priced upwards of $3,500. Among them, the Advance model, featuring a bay window-style firebox, can heat 900 to 2,400 square feet, and is priced beginning at $3,826. Another popular brand is Quadra-Fire, which offers the Santa Fe model begins at $2,199. This model can heat 700 to 1,900 square feet, depending on the home and climate, and features a contemporary design. Thelin provides stoves with a range of vent trim and louver color options that can be customized to match the home, even as it provides 44,500 BTU output. Other brands include Lennox, Whitfield and Jamestown.
All of these manufacturers offer a variety of styles, including sleek modular designs and options featuring the classic cast-iron stove look. Most models will allow you a view of the fire, providing ambiance as well as warmth to your home.
Wood pellets burn more cleanly than regular wood, so creosote (the oily byproduct of wood that is often the cause of chimney fires) is less likely to build up in the stove and chimney. Owners should still have a professional check the stove and venting each year before use, and thoroughly clean the stove in accordance with the manufacturer's directions. The EPA recommends professional installation of pellet stoves, as proper venting is important to prevent house fires.
A pellet stove professional also can help you determine the proper size stove for your heating needs.
The EPA reports that, because of their low particle emissions, "pellet stoves are typically among the cleanest wood-burning heating appliances available today." The Alliance for Green Heat, a non-profit organization, states that any pellet stove that releases less than two grams of smoke and particulates per hour is operating very cleanly. All pellet stoves are required to have their emission rating posted clearly. EPA-certified stoves are the lowest emission pellet stoves on the market.


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If there is one restaurant you want to visit when you come to Breckenridge, it is Michael's Italian Restaurant! Michaels is conveniently located off of Main Street Breckenridge on Jefferson Avenue. As soon as you come in from the cold, the first thing you smell is the delicious garlic bread. For you garlic lovers, some say they serve bread with their garlic! Enjoy your meal at one of their window tables that overlooks the Breckenridge ski slopes. The view of the Breckenridge ski area is so great you might want to make a reservation for the special tables in advance.
If you are in the mood to relax and enjoy the camaraderie of some of the locals, you will definitely enjoy their well stocked bar. Their restaurant is well ventilated and has vaulted ceilings that show off their authentic hand hewn beams from the mining days. Michaels also has a friendly staff to serve your special needs.
One of their specialty starters is the specially topped bruschetta that will leave you coming back for more. Their pizza will take you back to the old days of Italy, and the homemade lasagna will remind you of Mom's kitchen when you were young. The linguine will make you shout out 'Prego!' Come on in and take a little piece of Italy back with you.


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Release Date: 1989 |
A pretty short review this time, but still pretty good.
Album Rating: 3.5Yes, but it is hard to write when you don't have so much info about the band or album, but thanks. And this was not meant to be my 130 rev but I found this album on the bands website so I d-loaded it and reviewd it.
Album Rating: 3.5gd shit
Album Rating: 3.5this site sucks
Album Rating: 3.5man the title track is so fucking good
Album Rating: 3.5HE WAS BORN TO KIIIIIIIILL
Bands: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z


text: No, it's not quite Christmas yet! But we're already starting to prepare- This year we'll be participating in the 4th annual Monster Holiday Drive! Last years drive wielded incredible results when 70 "Monster Elves" came together to collect donations for their local shelters and rescues. We participated, benefiting two Milwaukee Area groups- Canine Cupids and Friends of Madacc. We collected $840 worth of enrichment toys, training treats, collar and leashes. This year we plan on working hard to collect even more goodies for Milwaukee's dogs in need! If you're interested in helping, donating or would like to have a collection bin at your place of business please contact us! More updates to come, keep your eyes peeled and learn more by about the drive by clicking on the photo below! Also, take a moment to read Karma's monster story from her perspective.


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I love this set! Visit MYCTMH to order yours!
Scrapbooking, stamping, card making, papercrafting
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Monday, April 4, 2011
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Sophia Layout and Card WOTG
Sophia B & T: the most beautiful CTMH paper ever! We were able to complete the WOTG Layouts, cards, and these extra Layout and card.
Posted by ScrampingTita at 4/02/2011 04:54:00 PM
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Friday, April 1, 2011
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Delhi Police Home Guard Recruitment 2016 – Apply for 6942 Home Guard Vacancies: Delhi Police Recruitment for Home Guard posts. Looking for Delhi Police Vacancy 2016? Delhi Police notification announced for Home Guard vacancies. Delhi Police has issued a recruitment notification for the recruitment of Police Home Guard posts. Online applications are invited from male & female candidates for filling up 6942 Home Guard posts in Delhi.
Eligible and interested candidates can submit their application in the prescribed format on or before 16th March 2016. Further details like age limit, educational qualification, how to apply, selection process and online application form are given below…
Delhi Police Vacancy Details:
Organization Name: Delhi Police
Total Number of Vacancies: 6942 Posts
Name of the Post: Home Guard
- Male: 6642 Posts
- Female: 301 Posts
Eligibility Criteria:
Age Limit: Candidates age should be between 20 years to 47 years (Male) and 20 years to 42 years (Female) as on 15-01-2016. Age relaxation is applicable as per the rules.
Educational Qualifications: Candidates must have passed Matric/ Secondary/ Class 10 from any recognized Board/ University or Institutions.
Application form: Application forms are available w.e.f. 15/02/2016 to 15/03/2016 on all working days @ Rs. 100/- (Rs. One Hundred Only) from DSO, Recruitment Cell, Nishkam Sewa Bhawan, CTI Complex, Near Shivaji College, Raja Garden, New Delhi.
Application Fee: Candidates are required to pay Rs. 100/- as application fee.
Pay Scale: Rs. 5200-20,200. Refer to notification page for more details.
Physical Eligibility: Candidates height must be 165 cm for Male and 150 cm for Female.
Selection Process: Candidates will be selected on the basis of their performance in Written Examination Physically Efficiency Test and Medical test.
How to Apply: All those candidates who wish to apply for Delhi Police Home Guard Posts, they are required to send their application in the prescribed format from 15th February to 16th March 2016.
Important Dates:
Date of Notification Publication: 14-02-2016
Starting Date for Sending Application Form: 15-02-2016
Last Date for Submit of Application form: 16-03-2016
Date of Written Examination: Yet to be announced.
Date of Physical Endurance Test: Yet to be announced.
More Details: Candidates are strongly advised to read official Delhi Police Home Guard recruitment notification for more details about Delhi Police Recruitment for Home Guard posts regarding age limit, educational qualifications, last date, pay scale, how to apply and online application form.
Click here for Official Notification.


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The lovely ladies at The Wool Loft
sent me two 100g beautiful hanks of 100% Lincoln Longwool to review
As it was a Chunky weight wool, I immediately thought of my "Chunky Warming Sock" pattern.
First I had to wind the hank into a ball with the help of my wool winder & then I got my hook out and got to work
I changed my basic pattern (available here) , which is suitable for beginners - yes you CAN crochet socks, to the one you see above and I can't tell you how pleased I am with them.
The wool itself is a delight to crochet with. It looks a little rustic (which I like) however it is so smooth and silky feeling that it floats through your hook & is a pleasure to crochet with. It runs beautifully through your fingers, so much so that you don't want the experience to end.
As socks go - these are the best I have ever worn & as you probably know by now I have about 10 pairs of Crochet Socks in my collection. Being 100% wool they keep your little toes 100% cosy toasty & at £8.99 a hank (you will need 2 for a pair) this little purchase of luxury is one that you won't regret.
Now for more "hookiness"
My favourite supplier The Yarn & Craft Shop are now stocking thee GREAT hooks by Clover
I had already bought the 6mm (brown) and the 4mm (purple) hooks some time ago, as these are the hook sizes I use the most. I was waiting for The Yarn & Craft Shop to start stocking these wonderful hooks (whilst saving up at the same time) as they do mean that I can crochet for longer as they are so comfortable to hold, so I purchased another 3. Only 3 more to go!!
Now for some classroom news - This week I taught 22 lovely ladies over 9 workshops / classes & here are some of the Crochet Creations made.....
At Sparrow UK in Shaftesbury we made Roses
In a private class we have started to make a baby cardigan & I have been reliably informed that progress has been made!
In Wednesday Evenings class we made flowers
Using new stitches & techniques
but not only that - SS has made her first sock!
And in the week she sent me this picture
Aren't they just FAB!! I have a pair of bed socks & welly socks just like that. SS came to a 4 week Beginners workshop in November & look at her now - already crocheting socks!
In another class we made more hearts
And back at Sparrow UK we were treated (as always) to home made Coffee & Walnut Cake & Coffee
YUMMY - one of my pupils told me that she was "Teachers Pet" (she was a teacher herself before she took early retirement, so she should know all about this subject) and then she produced a copy of my book, which she then asked me to sign. I was thrilled - a book signing!!
I must admit that I had to practice my signature as there is so little one signs these days
Did I mention that I like Crochet Socks? LOL - here are just a few pairs drying on the Aga
Now for more "book" news
This fellow "Tweeter" bought my book recently and then sent me this photograph. She's completed Project 1 - Flower Headband, which she has made a jolly good job of, & she's now started on Project 2 - A Beanie Hat
"Just started the beany hat. Love yr instructions feeling I'm getting somewhere at last with my crochet."
This is such great feedback to have & makes me burst with pride as LJ has learnt to read a crochet pattern!
News from Online Crochet Course 1:
This is a good 1st attempt - the stitches of Double Crochet are very neat, but the edges are wonky
But JB realised that and knew she had to practise & that's exactly what she did
Ta Dah - straight edges have been mastered
& she now has a crochet bookmark
Fantastic work - I am so proud of your great work.
If you are in the Blandford Forum area on the 24th March then do come along to this fantastic Vintage Fair at The Corn Exchange from 10am to 4pm.
I went last year & it was one of the most well attended QUALITY fairs I have been too in a long time.
I'll be there with my crochet hook doing demonstrations this year!
I ended the week in style as my Pupil PD came for a private lesson bearing gifts
Her lovely mother made this Triangle Blanket chart, so that we now know exactly how many triangles "in formation" one will need for the 2014 blanket.
Thank you Mummy PD - I couldn't have done this myself
Here is PD working away, sewing in ends (which is an art in itself) on her Triangle Blanket
And here is HER hook set - she got it as a Christmas present & I am, needless to say, a little envious
They look lovely as a set - so "Rainbow"
And finally - today is Day 25 and here is my 25th square.
Until next week fellow hookers.
Oh yes, I will be producing the next newsletter soon so if you don't want to miss out


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Wellness Fits All: Why Skinny Doesn't Always Mean Healthy
Health and Nutrition As the fashion industry opens its eyes to healthy beauty, wellness—not thinness—becomes the new beauty standard. Here are tips for achieving wellness.
Let's face it: six-pack abs and Michelle Obama's arms just might not be in the cards for all of us. But that doesn't mean we should grow complacent or stop working toward optimal health. Good health is a beautiful thing. Even the fashion industry has caught on, hiring more models who aren't size 00 in favor of healthy women of all sizes.
Healthy habits
Regardless of what the scale says, women need to be vigilant about their overall health. So, what does that involve? First of all, consider more than weight when focusing on health improvement. Just as one can be thin and unhealthy, one can carry extra weight and be perfectly healthy. Here are some big picture ways to work toward overall wellness:
Get regular, professional assessments of blood-work, vital signs and muscle-to-fat ratios.
Keep your core muscles strong and lean.
Allow for appropriate recovery time after exercising.
Strive for mental clarity through such activities as meditation.
Establish regular sleep patterns.
Manage your stress.
Keep your self-talk positive and encouraging.
Body maintenance
Remember that moderation is another key to good health. Even very healthy foods and activities done to excess aren't healthy. Extremes in weight, high or low, are also harmful. Now down to the nitty-gritty. Here are some tips for body maintenance that everyone of every size should include:
Do daily exercise—no excuses! Stretch before you get out of bed; increase your time walking and climbing stairs; do jumping jacks and planks. Get moving!
Drink plenty of water. Add fresh fruits and herbs to add nutrition and prevent boredom.
Increase the number of meals you eat throughout the day, and eat smaller portions.
Eat more vegetables.
Eat less white flour, sugar, red meat and dairy.
Avoid processed food.
Breathe deeply.
Sleep seven to eight hours nightly.
If you can embrace yourself and improve your habits each day, you will find that you feel more empowered, clearer, healthier and even younger. And you'll be able to make the mind-body connection, which leads to true beauty—both inside and out.


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WETHERSFIELD - The parents of a Connecticut elementary school student have filed a lawsuit claiming their daughter was sexually assaulted at school.
The Hartford Courant reports the parents filed a complaint in November in Hartford Superior Court. The suit seeks damages of more than $15,000 from Wethersfield Public Schools.
According to the lawsuit, the kindergartener was assaulted in a bathroom at Emerson Williams Elementary School in 2015. The parents said their daughter's teacher and principal were told but failed to report the assault to the state Department of Children and Families.
The family's attorney says his clients have spent money on treatment to help their daughter.
Police and the child welfare officials previously determined the case was "unsubstantiated." Wethersfield's superintendent said in a statement the board of education takes the allegations seriously.


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Living well with dementia - how to get help.
What is Available?
What is available will depend on what you need.
You might want some help, advice and information to help you make sense of a diagnosis of dementia. Dementia describes a range of illnesses for which there is a range of treatments both clinical and psychological. What help you need, will depend on what your circumstances are and to help you decide you could speak to your GP, the national dementia helpline or your local health and social care services.
- GP practices: online map
- Alzheimer Scotland's Dementia Helpline: 0808 808 3000.
You can also speak to the HSCP or call into our offices in Clarkston or Barrhead and someone will be able to help.Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP)
Drumby Crescent
Tel: 0141 451 0866
Who can get help or who can get the service?
We will help you get the support you need depending on what it is you want to achieve, that means helping you to work out the outcomes that are most important to you at the point at which you are looking for help. If you want to talk to people we can put you in touch with support groups. You might want to make arrangements for your future and discuss your finances and legal matters with the relevant people; again we can help you decide. You might want help to get time away from being a carer and again we can help you plan the best option for your needs. Above all it is about helping you achieve the best outcomes for you.
How does a person access the service?
Most people living with dementia continue to live independent and fulfilled lives. What determines whether you need a service like home care or other care service will be determined by an assessment of your needs. We will always involve you and your carer in that discussion. We will base our assessment on what outcomes you want to achieve and will always provide help to help keep you at home wherever possible.
How much does it cost?
What it costs will depend on what help you receive and will be assessed on an individual case by case basis. People who receive support from the Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) will be able to have their personal circumstances financially assessed and any charges for the services will be discussed with the person.
There are elements of non-chargeable support available for people recently diagnosed with dementia in East Renfrewshire including the Facing Dementia Together service, which has opportunities for both people with dementia and their carers to be supported at dementia cafes and other local opportunities. The Facing Dementia Together Project can be accessed through the Alzheimer Scotland website:
Other services that will help you
Telecare is an alarm service to enable you to live safely and independently in your own home:
Care homes and housing choices:
Getting out and about is an important part of our well being:
External organisations that advise and support people with dementia and those that care for them:


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What's Wrong with the World is the title of GK Chesterton's fantastic diatribe of all things nineteenth century and broken. The irony of the book is that most of what was wrong with the world is still wrong with the world; and we're adding to the list every day. Continue reading
Month: January 2015
"Je Ne Suis Pas Charlie" –God.
What do the Sony film, The Interview, and the #parisshooting have in common? They both claim to represent, guard, or promote honorable traditions, but in fact do not. Think about it:
- How can the lewd, disrespectful, and lascivious movie known as The Interview possibly represent anything that pleases God? Or,
- How can a plucky French pundit who sketches obscene comics about political and religious figures in the name of "free speech" be a hero of democracy?
The Bible says that "if we want to have no fear of authority," then we should "do what is right and we will receive praise from the same." Under no circumstances can penning, and publishing, obscene comics of the prophet Muhammad be construed as "doing what is right." Continue reading
Remembering Christmas
Someone sent us a Christmas card and enclosed within it was a white piece of tissue paper, on which was typed the following poem. Typing is something that happens when you strike a piece of paper with a steel rod dipped in ink. It is violent.
I hope it helps you to remember Christmas as Christmas is forgotten by everyone else:


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School District 11 Candidate Forum
Join Citizens Project, along with the League of Women Voters at the Candidate Forum for School District 11. We have all candidates confirmed to attend, so please don't miss this important election education event!
You may submit questions for the candidates to answer by:
-posting in the comments section below.
-emailing it to email@example.com
-or at the Citizens Project Facebook page or Twitter #CPForum.
3 Replies to "School District 11 Candidate Forum"
Karen Teja
October 6, 2015 (6:57 pm)
Hope you can join me on Tuesday the 13th for the citizen project forum!
Anton Schulzki
October 12, 2015 (8:47 pm)
Given the comments that have been attributed to the "reform" candidates – I would like to know from ALL candidates what specifically is good about the schools in District 11 and what specifically are some of the problems – and for the candidates to be as detailed as possible in their responses.


text: Emergency… Your company official takes the phone, contact with the cyber security team or reaches to consultants of cyber security firm. Well, what if all of these would be under your fingertips with a single button… UITSEC HackButton technology allows you to report your emergency calls to authorized people instantly with SMS, Email and Push Notifications as well as it provides the opportunity to alarm all of your cyber security process with a single touch. Security has never been so much close to you


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The DC Council's new committee structure could mean Mayor Muriel Bowser's next two years will be as challenging as the last two – except she won't have several allies to help soften the blow of an increasingly emboldened legislature filled with deep-blue progressives and antagonists, chiefly her predecessor Vincent C. Gray. "One thing is certain, the mayor is going to have a hard time," said Greg Rhett, a Ward 7 resident active in local politics and civic affairs. "The [council voting] bloc that's sprouting up has more muscle than before."
Complicating that is the fact that the mayor and seven legislators are expected to launch reelection bids. Therefore, the committees will morph into campaign platforms replete with posturing and rhetorical flourishes designed to please constituents and raise money. Consider that the council's Committee on Economic Development has been the consistent foot-stool for politicians looking to advance their careers: Kwame Brown parlayed it to the job of chairman of the council. Bowser used it to ride into the mayoral suite. Even before he was assigned economic development, some observers had suggested Kenyan McDuffie would be a mayoral contender in 2018. That means the field of candidates already is crowded with the prospect of DC Attorney General Karl Racine adding his name. All of this simply means that Council Period 22 will be all politics, all the time.
Ed Lazere, head of the nonprofit DC Fiscal Policy Institute, said it's not in the interest of either the executive or the legislature to be fighting all the time, especially considering the changes caused by the federal government that could hit the city. "If the mayor wants to succeed, "it's in her interest to build new relationships."
Achieving that goal is more than a notion, however. During Council Period 21, key progressives like Ward 1's Brianne Nadeau, Ward 6's Charles Allen, and At-large Elissa Silverman didn't chair any standing committees. Still, they created headaches for the executive, although they were unable to inflict permanent damage. Bowser often had a six-pack of members who could help drive her agenda.
That changed with the November general election. The pro-Bowser force dwindled to three. Now Chair Phil Mendelson has exacerbated the mayor's wound. (He probably wouldn't share that assessment.)
The progressives are not just at the door; they are in charge of the house and have sway over key areas Bowser may have hoped to deploy as springboards into a second term. Consider that At-large Councilmember Elissa Silverman controls the Committee on Labor and Workforce Development. That includes the Department of Employment Services and the Deputy Mayor for Greater Economic Opportunity. Bowser won't be able to pass around money through contracts and jobs to gain support from residents and businesses. Silverman, considered by many to be expert in workforce development issues, will demand accountability and measurable outcomes. She has challenged the mayor over expansion of the summer job's program, demanding an evaluation and requiring the executive to ensure full-time employment for a select number of enrollees. Further, Silverman led the fight for universal paid leave, which the Council passed last month. Bowser opposed the bill and pledged not to sign it.
Gray has jurisdiction over the Committee on Health. He is expected to advocate, once again, for a public hospital east of the Anacostia River, in Ward 7 or Ward 8. When Bowser was on the Council she opposed a similar proposal offered by then-mayor Gray. Since he continues to believe he was cheated out of a second mayoral term, Gray is expected to be the proverbial thorn in the side. "Things are going to be very interesting," said Rhett. "When we go into the budget season that's when we really will know who's got the juice."
Public Frustration
Bowser isn't the only one expected to catch heat, however. Some business owners, residents, and advocates acknowledge a slight improvement in the committee structure – from eight to 11 standing committees, including the Committee of the Whole. But many I spoke with remain unhappy with the organization Mendelson has crafted for Council Period 22. They complained that some committees are not properly aligned with their mission and the agencies under their purview; some remain too large; and still others lack knowledgeable personnel. Those issues create problems associated with transparency and effective and efficient oversight.
"Committees should be in the hands of people who have experience and passion about the area over which they have jurisdiction," said Alex Padro, an advisory neighborhood commissioner in Shaw.
"We would be better off if the Council placed a higher priority on oversight and better off if the subject areas were more keenly defined," said long-time DC-based political consultant Tom Lindenfeld.
Dorothy Brizill, head of the good government group DC Watch, agreed but asserted that ultimately the current committees aren't "set up to do the oversight that is needed." She cited as problematic the composition of the Committee on the Judiciary, under which Mendelson has placed at least 36 agencies and commissions. She raised questions about whether Business and Economic Development, headed by Ward 5's Kenyan McDuffie, has staff with the knowledge to conduct dive-deep oversight.
Mendelson also has permitted some councilmembers to continue chairing committees despite what some characterized as "poor performance." Consider that several people interviewed for this article rated the chair of the Education Committee, At-large David Grosso, mediocre. "I haven't been overly impressed," said Padro, whose Shaw community has been fighting for the modernization and opening of Shaw Middle School. Grosso "has done an okay job. I'd like to see someone more effective. Maybe Phil [Mendelson] was right when he wanted education to be part of the Committee of the Whole."
Then there is the Department of General Services (DGS), a behemoth agency charged with, among other things, managing the city's real estate holdings and school modernization. As chair of the Committee on Transportation and the Environment, Ward 3's Mary Cheh had jurisdiction over the DGS. By most assessments her oversight of DGS was inadequate. The agency mismanaged school modernization funds, according to the city auditor. More recently there were allegations two top-level employees changed the procurement scoring system without approval from either the mayor or the Council.
"The primary function of the committee is oversight, not creating new legislation," said Brizill. The emphasis on introducing legislation is not likely to change during an election season, however.
Strapped and Dissatisfied
"The quality of oversight always depends on the quality of the committee," said Mendelson, during an interview with the District Beat in which he explained and defended his decisions.
Interestingly, not only does Mendelson recommend the chair for each committee, he also determines which councilmember sits as a member of which committee. If anyone has control over the quality of a committee it is Mendelson. Adding credence to that observation, he told me that he broke up some of the previously large committees to "allow for better focus."For example, he split the Committee on Business, Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, giving McDuffie one half and Silverman the other. Mendelson said creating a separate business development committee could provide relief for businesses. Last month he called for a moratorium on new business-related legislation.
Mendelson also divided the former Committee on Health and Human Services. Gray got control of health, although technically he is a freshman; Mendelson's edict has been that freshman legislators don't get to chair committees. "Everybody got what they wanted," Mendelson said.
Actually, neither Robert White nor Trayon White was assigned a committee. "My belief is that a body as small as the District Council with oversight over 100 agencies and commissions needs every member to have a committee so we can reach down into every agency," said Robert White, adding that he had discussed with Mendelson his "desire to chair a committee" and noting his years of conducting government oversight in previous roles.
The failure to assign each of the two Whites a committee means that 50 percent of the black male council members are without chairmanships. Also putting Trayon White on the sidelines translates into more than four years that a representative from Ward 8 would not have chaired a committee. Chairmanships are important commodities. Not only do they provide council members an opportunity to develop a level of expertise, they also provide resources that could be traded to secure better outcomes for their constituents. During the budget process, for example, chairs often move money between their committees to ensure funding of pet projects. Neither Robert White nor Trayon White will wield that political clout and influence.
Speaking through his spokesperson, Mendelson reiterated his position that it "takes some time for new council members to get up to speed." He also argued that "east of the river has a chairmanship with Vincent Gray."
Wards 7 and 8 are both east of the Anacostia River. They are two different communities, with different demographics and needs, however.
"Trayon White has thus far been very impressive," Mendelson continued, "and I will be helpful and responsive to his requests. I will do all I can when he asks."
The problems didn't stop there, however. Government sources said Ward 6's Charles Allen had lobbied for the Committee on Health. Instead he was saddled with the Committee on the Judiciary. Initially Mendelson had sought to keep McDuffie as chairman of that committee. Mendelson said he even asked McDuffie to serve "as a favor to me." McDuffie still refused, choosing business development instead. McDuffie had thought DGS would come along with that committee, but it didn't. When the Council met last month for its administrative meeting, where the committee assignments were first recommended, McDuffie was visually unhappy. Later, he was given the Committee on Business and Economic Development. While DGS wasn't part of that configuration, he won control over the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, a broad and lucrative terrain.
When reached by telephone earlier this month, McDuffie, said after the initial assignments were made "as is customary there was continuing discussion. Ultimately I am pleased with the committee I have."
Allen acknowledged in an interview with District Beat that he hadn't expected to be assigned judiciary and public safety. "I got my hands around it really fast, [however]. This is a really important committee; it touches people's lives every single day. The committee has a lot of challenges; it is dealing with some of the toughest stuff in the city."
The Judiciary Committee has under its purview fire and emergency services, the Office of the Attorney General, and the Office of Campaign Finance, among others. Allen has gone from no committee to one of the largest and most significant. Further, as chairman, he now has a bulls-eye on his back for the next two years, particularly since there has been a measurable uptick in crime in his Ward 6. "This committee comes with expectations and I am going to be working hard to meet them," he continued.
Don't expect him to focus only crime and punishment in the traditional sense. Allen said high on his list of priorities will be preventing government corruption and improving government ethics. "You're talking to someone who didn't take a single dime from a corporation in my campaign. No PAC [political action committee and no corporation," he continued. That experience, he said, makes him the right person to push for campaign finance changes. "It's something I care a lot about."
He will advocate for strong legislation to prevent pay-to-play, which could mean contractors doing business with the city may not be able to make campaign contributions while they have active contracts. He also said he would push for fair elections, helping to balance the influence of large donors with that of low-dollar donors.
The saving grace for Allen's vault into the chairmanship of such a large and critical committee is that prior to his election he was chief of staff for several years to then-Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells, who chaired the same committee.
Grosso also was unhappy with initial assignments. He sought to have Mendelson add the University of the District of Columbia, the Department of Parks and Recreation, and DGS to the Committee on Education. The university is under Mendelson's Committee of the Whole, and DGS is under Cheh's committee.
The mismatch of agencies under committees was a common complaint during Council Period 21. Residents had a hard time determining which councilmember was responsible for what. "These things have a huge effect and shouldn't be dismissed. The net result could be a lack of transparency and a lack of effective oversight," said Lindenfeld
Without six other members to join him, there was no way Grosso could alter Mendelson's assignments. "When Vince Gray was chairman, everyone had a committee," said Jack Evans, adding that if he had made the decisions he would have divided DCRA between Robert White and Trayon White. "This is Phil's world. He is just very stubborn."
Mendelson suggested his motives in the selection process were pure, although he deliberately removed some legislators as members of committees and refused to assign agencies to others, even as he sought their assistance. "The Council is stronger and a better institution than it was two years ago. We are working better and working more collaboratively."
The 'Titanic,' Maybe
Creating the standing committees isn't some deck chair exercise, however. The assignments are political, providing Mendelson leverage to maintain control of the legislature and rally voters around him as he seeks reelection. "How much of this is being done for good government? How much is being done for the chairman to have improved relations with councilmembers? How much is being done for politics?" asked one political operative.
Noted Brizill, "All of the people up for reelection have committees with constituencies that can provide early money, which can preclude anyone from running against them." Allen, Cheh, Silverman, McDuffie, Nadeau, Mendelson, and At-large member Anita Bonds are expected to position themselves this year for their 2018 reelection. Consider that Bonds was assigned the chairmanship of the Committee on Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization. That includes jurisdiction over public housing, the Housing Production Trust Fund, the Housing Finance Agency, and the Department of Housing and Community Development. Curiously it also includes the Commission on Aging and the Office of Aging. Senior citizens are considered the most dependable voting bloc in the city.
Silverman could successfully tap labor unions and city contractors. Mendelson, as chair of the Committee of the Whole, oversees several critical agencies including the Zoning Commission, the Office of Contracting and Procurement, and the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. After the paid leave bill he has to kiss and make up with business leaders who have been strong sources of campaign contributions for candidates in previous elections.
One John A. Wilson Building source said Mendelson even made sure that he wouldn't have Gray snapping at his heels. "[Mendelson] cut a deal with Gray and threw Allen under the bus. The chairman doesn't want Gray challenging him in two years." There has been much talk that Gray may run against Mayor Bowser in 2018, as part of his campaign to restore his political influence and clout. He could just as easily run for Council chair, however.
Still, the level of dissatisfaction over committee assignments, said one District government insider, and the fact that members running for reelection will want to tout achievements, could create an opportunity for Bowser to rebuild alliances. "I think it plays well for the mayor."
Mendelson has not set up any direct roadblocks for Bowser. In fact he has placed Ward 4's Brandon Todd, the mayor's protégé, as head of the Committee on Government Operations. Among other things it has jurisdiction over the Executive Office of the Mayor, the mayor's Office of Legal Counsel, and the Office of the City Administrator."There is nothing to be gained by causing trouble for the mayor and nothing lost by giving Brandon oversight of the mayor's office," said Mendelson.
If you believe that, Mendelson has a bridge to sell you.
Freelance writer jonetta rose barras blogs at www.jonettarosebarras.com.


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My drastic measures worked! I have broken the mini-reading slump with a Black Lace erotica read. While Pleasure's Daughter by Sedalia Johnson wasn't without faults, it still have plenty of steam to keep me turning the pages.
Our story takes place in 1750 England and finds our heroine, Amelia, traveling to her aunt's estate after the death of her father. Along the way she crosses the Marquis of Beechwood, Lucas, and he is determined to track her down and make her his. This being erotica, good ole' Lucas decides the best way about this is through humiliation and sexual conquest. Amelia runs, Lucas chases, and they both have sexual adventures along the way.
I have to say this was an interesting read if only for the fact that the author does actually write somewhat of a plot. For the most part it works, but when it comes to my particular foibles, the sex was less satisfying.
I should state up front that domination and submission do not push any kind of ick buttons for me. However, the heroine's repeated running, and her inability to take the bull by the horns, got tiresome after a while. One of the more interesting aspects of erotica is when the tables are literally turned on the dominate characters, and in this case Lucas really needed his tables turned in a big way.
The author does get around to this, but by the time it happens, it feels a little too late. There's also a rather rushed conclusion where Lucas admits he was a jack ass. Frankly, considering his behavior for the entire book, a brief few pages where he miraculous sees the error of his ways seemed a bit farfetched.
But that's just me.....


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Interview with Richard Chichakly
Published time: 7 Mar, 2008 09:17 Edited time: 7 Mar, 2008 12:17
Russian businessman, Viktor Bout, faces up to ten years in a Thai prison if found guilty of supplying weapons to terrorists. Richard Chichakly, a friend of Victor Bout, came to our studio to give us his comments.
"Viktor Bout is not wanted on any charges except the one filed yesterday. There are no other charges pending against him by any government or any other body in the world. That is a fact, that these charges in Thailand are the only ones against him. There were some charges pressed by the Belgian government in 2002 and these were withdrawn because they were unsupported or they could not substantiate them. There is a time limit on this, which is why the case against him was drawn out. He became wanted by the US yesterday," stated Chichakly.


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My Favorite Flirts is a feature that lets you reach your favorite Flirts easily from My Account or on 1-800-TO-FLIRT.Manage My Favorites
$0.69 per volley.
(27 Reviews)
ok, first of all, I find it so freakin hilarious that some of you might need masturbation "instruction". As if you don't spend every day of your life doing it and have it already perfected and honed to a fine art, without any input from us. Personally, I think I could make most of you even more useful if I taught you how to CURB that jerk off habit of yours.
but ok, in reality, I kinda do get it.
I can see how it could be erotic for you jackoffs having a beautiful hot voice telling you what to do or a sexy chick shaking her ass while she "shows you what to do", leads you through your jack off session and laughs at you...
so I've decided to have a little fun with the whole "jerk off instruction" JOI yourself fetish
here's a very hot recording you can follow along with while I have a little fun at your expense ; )
* do not perform this activity while driving


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Sunshine Pop
Sunshine pop is one of those genres that didn't get a name or get recognized as its own thing until decades after the fact. It started in the mid-'60s when The Beach Boys' Brian Wilson started losing interest in straightforward surfing and hot rod songs -- right around the time when his fascination with production techniques sharply escalated. Sunshine didn't simply enable beach fun: It could also trigger a spiritual experience so powerful it would alter consciousness. These songs reasoned that nature alone could get you high.
Soon the studios of Los Angeles were bursting with this harmony-based, session-player-enabled soft psychedelic pop. Groups like The Association, The 5th Dimension and The Mamas & The Papas -- often supported by overlapping teams of producers, songwriters and studio musicians -- infiltrated AM radio with emphatically light, multitracked lushness. The sunshine sound then spread east to inspire similarly styled ensembles like Bloomington, Ill.'s Spanky & Our Gang, and even to England with The Flowerpot Men. But heavier, more self-contained bands conquered the free-form FM dial, and when Woodstock hit in 1969, protest-themed acid rock almost immediately wiped out the sunshine sound, sending would-be softies to either kiddie bubblegum or more mature and introspective singer-songwriter fare.
Rediscovered in the '90s and the early '00s, sunshine pop benefited from the CD reissuing boom, which turned forgotten talents like Sagittarius/Millennium collaborator Curt Boettcher into cult heroes by emphasizing through remastered clarity the art of their intricately crafted miniature symphonies. This playlist samples sunny acts huge, obscure, long-lasting and fleeting. Up, up and away!


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The Blaze reports:
Republicans say the new standards, signed into law by President George W. Bush, are a symbol of an overreaching federal government and people should have the right to buy the traditional, cheap and reliable incandescent bulbs. The Obama administration and environmentalists say new bulbs on the market will save American households billions of dollars in energy costs.
Representative Joe Barton (R-Texas) introduced the legislation, the Better Use of Light Bulbs Act (BULB), on July 6 to overturn the 2007 ban. The act repeals Subtitle B of Title III of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, wherein the ban of the incandescent light bulbs is found.
Barton asserts that the ban is yet another example of government overreach:
The unanticipated consequence of the '07 act — Washington-mandated layoffs in the middle of a desperate recession — is one of many examples of what happens when politicians and activists think they know better than consumers and workers. From the health insurance you're allowed to have, to the car you can drive, to the light bulbs you can buy, Washington is making too many decisions that are better left to people who work for their own paychecks and earn their own living.
This [ban] is indicative of the overreach that the Obama administration, Mrs. Pelosi, and Majority Leader Reid, have put on the American people. They're mandating our behavior in healthcare, they're mandating, in this case, in energy. They don't want the American people to have choice and they basically don't trust the public. They want to tell the country what's best for them to do.
Representative Marsha Blackburn f(R-Tenn.) echoed similar sentiments, stating,
If the American people needed another example of why it is time to roll back the hyper-regulation of the past four years, this is it." She went on, "Washington banned a perfectly good product and fired hard working Americans based on little more than their own whim and the silly notion that they know better than the American consumer. Now, hundreds more Americans are looking for work while assembly lines in China are churning out fluorescent bulbs for the US market. Tell me how that makes any sense at all.
Bemoaning the 2007 Energy Act's preference for the compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs), Rep. Barton defends the incandescent light bulb as cheaper and more environmentally correct. Likewise, he contends, "The American consumer should be able to make the choice."
Additionally, Rep. Michael Burgess (R-Texas) observed,
... I have stated all along that exposing our citizens to the harmful effects of the mercury contained in CFL light bulbs, which are being manufactured in China, is likely to pose a hazard for years to come. This light bulb issue is just the latest example of Republicans attempting to correct the mistakes of Nancy Pelosi's misguided Democrat-controlled Congress.
Burgess also notes the loss of jobs as a result of the 2007 bill: "Thousands of American jobs have been shipped overseas as a direct consequence of this light bulb provision in the Democrats' 2007 energy bill."
The BULB Act is currently being considered under a procedure that requires a two-thirds majority to pass, which may prove to be difficult, as Democrats on the Energy and Commerce Committee are urging their fellow party members to oppose the bill.
The Blaze provides some background for Barton's efforts:
The light bulb became an issue after the Republican takeover of the House, when Barton was vying with Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich., for the energy panel chairmanship. Upton, who worked with Democrats in crafting the light bulb provisions in the 2007 energy act, eventually got the job, but Barton got his bill on the legislative calendar.
Supporters of the 2007 Energy Act claim the incandescent light bulb ban will save American families approximately 7 percent a year in energy costs, and assert that the alternatives to the incandescent light bulb are more environmentally friendly.
However, as noted by The New American's Daniel Sayani, these advocates are ignoring the many serious problems associated with some of the alternatives, particularly the CFLs:
CFLs have powerful radiation-emitting electromagnetic fields which expose people to "dirty electricity," which can lead to a fivefold increase in cancer; furthermore, because they are composed of mercury vapor, broken CFLs can be deadly, as users are exposed to possible mercury poisoning. In addition, the bulbs have been linked to severe neurological damage, as they can result in migraine and epilepsy attacks.
Likewise, the Wall Street Journal indicates that the longevity of the bulbs has been exaggerated by 30 percent.
The organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), another new lighting technology, have had problems with mass production. The Blaze writes:
OLEDs are glowing sheets or tiles, rather than pinprick light sources, as LEDs are. They're used as vibrant color screens for smartphones, particularly from Samsung Electronics Co.
But making OLEDs that are big, bright, cheap and long-lasting enough for use as light sources has proved difficult, in part because they use chemicals that are sensitive to oxygen and spoil unless sealed very carefully.
The LEDs have proven to be durable, efficient, and easily mass-produced, but are absurdly expensive, approximately $40.
Under the BULB Act, no state or local energy efficiency regulation can be imposed if the requirement is only able to be met by installing bulbs or lamps that contain mercury.
If the incandescent light bulb ban remains in effect, 100-watt light bulbs will no longer be available at most stores by January 1, 2012. The same applies to the 75-watt bulb in 2013 and traditional 40- and 60-watt bulbs in 2014.


text: Just in time for Valentines Day, the stage sensation EVIL DEAD: THE MUSICAL is coming back to Toronto, Canada, the city where it first got started. A fond and hilarious spoof of and homage to the first two films in Sam Raimis beloved film series, EVIL DEAD: THE MUSICAL will run February 14-April 6 at The Diesel Playhouse (which offers full bar service throughout the show!), 56 Blue Jays Way, Mondays-Thursdays at 8 p.m., Fridays at 7:30 p.m. and 11 p.m. and Saturdays at 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. If youre anywhere in the area, dont miss it, and if youre especially brave, be sure to sit in the Splatter Zone front seats to get soaked in stage blood! Further show and ticket information can be found at the official website; you can read our review of the New York production here and interviews with the creators here and here.


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Grit. Perseverance. Self-Control. Optimism. In recent years, there's been a growing awareness, both within and beyond the educational community, of the importance of noncognitive skills. That awareness was driven in part by author Paul Tough's 2013 New York Times best-seller, "How Children Succeed," a book that highlighted the relationship between these qualities and academic success.
So — perhaps predictably — educators decided to begin teaching grit and character and perseverance. Character development courses have popped up at schools all over the nation, and educators in schools both big and small now talk to students about growth mindsets. But overall academic achievement has remained stable. The achievement gap between students in high-resource schools and students in low-resource schools persists.
Why? What's missing? Those are the questions Tough seeks to answer in his deeply reported new book, "Helping Children Succeed: What Works and Why."
In the book, Tough writes, "Maybe you can't teach character the way you teach math. No child ever learned curiosity by filling out curiosity worksheets, and hearing lectures on perseverance doesn't seem to have much impact on the extent to which young people persevere."
We recently talked to Tough about the importance of environment in education.
There's so much of a push right now in education to focus on character development and noncognitive skills. Are the way schools going about this a little misguided?
When my last book came out, the book and researchers were sort of saying two things. We were saying that it's clear that these skills are much more important than we thought in the success of children. But we were also saying that we don't really know how to help kids develop these skills. That's a pretty frustrating combination of ideas for a teacher.
So naturally, educators thought, well, if we can teach the Pythagorean theorem, we can teach greater curiosity. But the more I read the research, the more it became clear to me that the development of these skills is really a reflection of the environment that kids are in.
What factors in the educational environment seem to be the most important? Surely, we're not talking about bulletin boards and paint colors.
We know that being in a calm, responsive, warm home in early childhood, with connections with adults, biologically changes the way that kids develop. The way teachers and administrators define homework, talk to students, and organize a discipline program also sends kids deep messages about things like belonging, their identity as students and their potential. Psychologists are discovering that those messages have a profound effect on a students' motivation. A sense of belonging and possibility is what makes kids want to work hard.
One study found that putting a Post-it note on students' homework assignments with messages such as, "I'm giving you this feedback because I have high expectations for you, I think you can succeed, and I think you need to just work a little harder to get there," has a profound effect on how likely students are to revise their paper and how well they do.
What would an ideal classroom educational environment look like?
The most effective way to teach kids, especially kids who are growing up in adversity, is to make school about more than memorization and repetition. It's encouraging kids to work on complicated long-term projects in groups. It's having class discussions that get kids really involved.
That style of teaching feels like a lot of work to a lot of teachers. It may be outside teachers' comfort zones. Some teachers feel like they've got to keep control of the classroom at all times or chaos will break out. But the opposite actually happens. When teachers let go of the reins and give students work that they care about, the students tend to work harder and be more attentive.
What kind of training and support do educators need to facilitate inclusive, deeper learning?
Some teachers immediately gravitate to this kind of teaching. But for most teachers, this type of teaching is not something they're familiar with, as teachers or as students. American pedagogy has emphasized repetition and rote learning for a long time.
So when teachers are embracing this different kind of teaching, it takes a lot of support, professional development and coaching. One of the programs I studied, Turnaround for Children, works in high-poverty schools in New York, Newark (New Jersey), and Washington, D.C. Rather than sending administrators or teachers into a school, they send a team of two coaches and a social worker. The social worker provides one-on-one help to the kids with the highest needs. The instructional coaches work directly with teachers. They watch them teach and talk them through different tactics.
That's what it takes for most teachers to make this change. Unfortunately, it's very rare to get that kind of professional development.
There seems to be a disconnect between what research shows is good for kids and teachers and learning and development, and what happens in most schools. What needs to happen to move education in this direction?
I've now been writing about education for more than a decade. When I started, I felt like, OK, here are the answers; we just need to get the government to make some changes and everything's going to change. I am now much more realistic about how change comes about in education. It comes slowly, and from many different directions at once.
There are lots of things that administrators — from the federal Department of Education to assistant principals — can do. They can change policies about discipline and assessments, and even change curriculum and pedagogy to reflect the research and science.
But I think it also has to happen on the level of individual teachers, parents and citizens. Part of what I've tried to do with this book is to show teachers that there's a different way of doing things. That these methods lead not only to better learning for students but also to a more satisfying experience for teachers. That kind of individual-by-individual change is part of what has to happen in order to create better educational environments for students.
Jennifer L.W. Fink is a freelance writer who frequently writes about education, health and parenting. See her work at www.jenniferlwfink.com and www.buildingboys.net.Learn More: Click to view related resources.


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Monaco DC Wedding Showcase
February 18, 2015 § Leave a comment
The Monaco in Washington, DC, hosted a beautiful Wedding Showcase tonight in the Paris Ballroom. I met some amazing people in the industry but most importantly, I enjoyed the relaxed, casual vibe of the evening! They did a great job bringing in area florists, restaurants and bakers and I got to enjoy some pretty amazing samples, too! I had my iPhone 4s with me, as I ran straight there from work, so the pics aren't amazing but I thought it would be the best way to share this event with you! The vendors included:
Poste (freeze-dried macaroons-amazing!)
Firefly (holy shrimp and grits–so delicious!)
Yellow Door Floral Designs (Thanks, John, for sitting through me showing you my Pinterest page of floral inspiration!)
Petal's Edge Floral Design
Fancy Cakes by Leslie
Alexandria Pastry Shop
Fluffy Thoughts Cakes (had great Groom Cake examples)
The Dandelion Patch (Heidi was adorable and so friendly-and honest-I need to get on invitations!)
Thanks so much to everyone at the Monaco DC for a fun event that my fiance and I enjoyed very much! Buddee, director of catering and special events, was amazing (although I'm sad to report you CANNOT rent the gorgeous outdoor space as it's just too busy in the summer) and I am excited (and scared) to look over the wedding package he sent me home with! I am a huge fan of Kimpton hotels and think they are the type of venue that has character and can provide guests with a memorable experience-not to mention the food and cocktails are always tasty, too! I happened to work at a wedding last summer at the Monaco in Alexandria (I did the sound outside in the courtyard for the ceremony and uplighting for the reception) and it was a beautiful event that all of the guests enjoyed. I'm getting butterflies in my stomach thinking about possibly having a wedding there! Even if it doesn't work out (DC weddings are very costly I'm finding out) I'm still very happy to share this gorgeous event with you!
As always, thanks for stopping by! XOXO Jen


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Under intense criticism from California lawmakers, the state will begin using blood test results from children to help focus its massive cleanup of lead-contaminated homes in southeast Los Angeles County, state officials said Wednesday.
Environmental regulators have received a state Department of Public Health analysis of blood lead levels of children living near the closed Exide Technologies battery recycling plant in Vernon and will use it "to further refine and target our testing and cleanup," Barbara Lee, director of the state Department of Toxic Substances Control, told an Assembly subcommittee.
The Times reported Saturday that the state has data showing elevated levels of lead in the blood of children near the plant but has not used the information to help direct its cleanup, which encompasses a zone of 10,000 homes in half a dozen communities.
State legislators, community groups and local officials reacted strongly to the news.
"We are talking about simple coordination among state departments to protect our most precious resource, our children, and it shouldn't take media inquiries to break through the bureaucratic malaise," said Los Angeles City Councilman José Huizar, who represents Boyle Heights. If blood testing data "will help us prioritize cleanup efforts, that information should have been released sooner."
The Times reported that blood test results for children have been used elsewhere to direct responses to lead contamination, including in Flint, Mich. The failure to use blood testing data in California since the Exide cleanup began 19 months ago is consistent with long-standing complaints from community groups that the state has shown a lack of urgency in addressing the contamination.
Public health experts say California regulators directing which neighborhoods have priority in cleanup should use blood testing data in addition to factors such as soil sampling, wind patterns and proximity to the facility.
Officials overseeing the Exide cleanup had tried unsuccessfully for more than two years to obtain blood lead screening data from state and county health agencies, which keep the records. The toxic substances department formally requested census tract-level data in September.
The department said it is reviewing the health department's analysis and would make the findings public once its examination is complete.
Lead, which spewed from the plant for decades, is a powerful poison. The toxic metal is most dangerous to young children, putting them at risk of lifelong developmental and behavioral problems.
Assemblyman Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles) said he was encouraged by the move to use blood testing data, "but I still have concerns and questions regarding how long it took to share the information and why there were barriers in the first place."
"We're still investigating to ensure that this never happens again, either in my community or any other community, when we're facing a health crisis like this," Santiago said.
Exide agreed to close the plant a year ago under a deal with federal prosecutors, which followed a criminal investigation and community outrage toward state regulators for allowing the facility to operate for decades without a full permit.
The Times requested the blood lead analysis, which the state health department had pledged to make public once it was complete, but was not provided a copy.
Lee, the Department of Toxic Substances Control director, told lawmakers Wednesday the health department analysis has taken time because "it's not simply a matter of pushing a button on a computer." To visualize the blood lead data in a useful way, health officials had to map more than 12,000 data points, she said.
The Times previously obtained and analyzed blood test records from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and found that 547 people under age 21 living in census tracts in the Exide cleanup area had elevated levels of lead in their blood from 2010 to 2014.
Gladys Limón, an attorney with Communities for a Better Environment, said the state's delay is part of a regulatory failure "to provide the necessary attention and resources to this public health crisis and continues to endanger the lives of tens of thousands of residents of color" in the overwhelmingly Latino neighborhoods near the plant.
Limón called on lawmakers to launch "independent investigations and hearings like those undertaken regarding the Flint lead health crisis. The impacted communities deserve answers, and those responsible should be held accountable."
Also Wednesday, Lee announced that Gov. Jerry Brown's administration has dropped its opposition to conducting an environmental review of the cleanup. The decision to move forward with legislation allocating $176.6 million in cleanup funds came in response to objections in recent weeks from community groups, environmentalists and state lawmakers over Brown's proposal to exempt the project from the California Environmental Quality Act.
That funding would pay for soil testing of 10,000 homes in Bell, Boyle Heights, Commerce, East Los Angeles, Huntington Park, Maywood and Vernon and will clean an estimated 2,500 of the worst-polluted properties over about two years, according to the Department of Toxic Substances Control.
The moves by the Brown administration are "a sign that they're starting to be responsive to what our communities are asking for," said Mark Lopez, who directs the group East Yard Communities for Environmental Justice. "Every step of the way this cleanup has only moved forward through community pressure."
Toxics regulators say about 200 homes of more than 1,000 tested to date have been cleaned.
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