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Gymnastic Training Center
Her dream was to open a gym and have the best gymnastics facility that could be built. And more than 30 years later, Sarah Jane Clifford's dream has long been realized.
She opened the Gymnastics Training Center (GTC) in rented space across from Penfield's Panorama Plaza on Oct. 7, 1987. An indoor pool was filled in to give her a total of 8,000-square-feet of space. She soon had 800 students and a waiting list of 750.
Six years later, she put together a loan package for $1.2 million and built the 22,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility in June 1994, which that still houses the center today. GTC is located at 2051 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, just north of Route 441, in Penfield.
The center currently serves 1,500 to 2,000 students a year, and still often has a waiting list.
"After we opened, everything I had ever dreamed about came true," Clifford said.
The center is open every day but Sunday — 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Friday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
Some, like 9-year-old Madison Van Gorder of Fairport, train there three hours a day, three days a week.
Madison originally was following in her older sister's gymnastics footsteps, Madison says, but has continued since her sister moved on.
"I like Sarah Jane and how she cares about everyone," Madison said. "She is understanding when you are having trouble with something — or me, it was a tuck — and helps you get through it,"
Madison admitted she is still "afraid" of the narrow balance beam. She wants to be really good at the uneven bars, but said her favorite is tumbling during the floor exercise.
The program at the center is regimented, said Madison's mom, Tammy Van Gorder, "But there are no drill sergeants here ... It's very welcoming and there's a lot of flexibility in the program. They (students) have a fun time and enjoy what they're doing. They make great friendships, too!"
Clifford's niece, Megan Clifford, 11, agreed. She has been attending classes at the center since the age of 2.
"There are a lot of people you can count on here," Megan said, noting she would like to follow in her aunt's footsteps and teach someday, too.
Following her passions
Clifford tumbled into gymnastics later in life than most of her students. She spent her early years in Princeton, N.J., where she said her parents involved her in several activities — horseback riding, ballet, swimming, skiing, skating — to get her out of the house, where she was "bouncing off the walls."
She noted that today she may have been diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) as a child. But she said she was "blessed" to be successful in everything she tried.
When her father was transferred to Rochester via a pharmaceutical company with which he worked, Clifford auditioned for the former Botsford School of Dance. She was told she was too short for the company (at her current height of five-foot, three inches) and it was suggested she try gymnastics. She did.
Her gymnastics coach saw her desire and within a month, Clifford went from training one day a week to five days a week. She progressed at a rapid pace and was put on a gymnastics team, while she also continued diving, horseback riding, and ski racing.
After graduating from Pittsford schools, Clifford attended Ithaca College, where she continued to compete in gymnastics. She also was able to continue horseback riding at Cornell University, and still took dance lessons and skied. She graduated magna cum laude.
Since her parents had by then relocated to Atlanta, Clifford went to live with them after college and started training and teaching with the Atlanta School of Gymnastics, which at the time was a national training center.
Gymnastic Training Center
Returning to Rochester
She moved back to Rochester after two years, and at one point was working five jobs — for recreation programs in Henrietta, Irondequoit and Pittsford; running a nursery school in Irondequoit, and waitressing.
"It got crazy," she said with a laugh.
A young man, Tim, who had been unsuccessful in asking her out for a date, actually enrolled in one of her gymnastics classes in Henrietta to get her attention. She finally said "yes," to a date, five weeks later. They were married in 1989 and she has two stepchildren.
In addition to running GTC, she currently is also a full-time caregiver for her husband, who had a serious motorcycle accident. She called the accident "a life-changing moment that gave me more patience and strength."
She said she also learned it's OK "not to do it all."
Today, Clifford teaches the advanced classes at GTC while also owning and running the Botsford School of Dance, which she purchased in 2001, and Fit By Five, a preschool program she bought in 1999.
Gymnastic Training Center
Education is key
Clifford believes education is a way of life and it remains one of her passions.
"I truly appreciate Sarah Jane's commitment to academics, and to safety," said parent Kristine Robertson, who has three children in the GTC program — two daughters, ages 11 and 10, and her 8-year-old son.
"While goal-setting is important here," Robertson said, "athletics and staying healthy are, too. It's not a focus on gymnastics at all costs."
Clifford has been to six Olympics as a "friend to athletes" and as a spectator, and also has traveled to 10 world championships.
While some of her Atlanta gymnasts competed at the Olympic level, Clifford said her goal for her Penfield-based center is for her students to earn college scholarships.
"That's a much more realistic goal," she said, "and one without the pressure of being an Olympian."
Another of the center's missions is "Safety first, last and always."
As a national safety and risk management instructor, Clifford travels around the country to teach injury prevention. She also quickly became a national level judge for gymnastics.
"I'm not reactive, I'm proactive — in everything," she said.
When the recent sexual abuse in gymnastics was exposed — something she called a "national tragedy" — Clifford was concerned, but not about her center.
"We don't do anything unsafe because we already have safe practices in place," she said.
Finding the remarkable
Every child at GTC learns specific skills in a specific order, but at their own pace.
"It's a never-ending sport," Clifford said. "That's what makes it so cool."
More than 160 different classes are offered at the center each week. Students currently range in age from one to 59 (yes, there are adult classes, too).
She has a staff of 35, including 28 professional teachers.
"No other sport, other than swimming, will build the self-confidence, strength, flexibility, and coordination that gymnastics does," Clifford said. "There's no other word for it – it's remarkable to me."
Unlike some sports facilities, Clifford doesn't offer eight- or 10-week sessions. Rather, when a student signs up, they "own" their spot for the full school year. Tuition is paid monthly. She requires only a two-week notice to withdraw. She allows "observations" of classes every 10 weeks or so, and has regular parent meetings.
"When you join, you're part of the GTC family," Clifford noted.
She regularly offers on-site field trips, including a 20-year program with Cancer Action and she trains and works with about 100 kids with cancer each year.
GTC works with a Special Olympics team and Clifford has been on the Special Olympics board for many years, and is also its safety advisor.
She is a member of Rochester's Press Radio Club and is also involved with the Monroe County Sports Advisory Council. Clifford is currently president of the New York State public high school gymnastics officials.
"You make time for the big things," she said with a shrug. "It's part of my personality ... everything I do, I have to get involved. I like things to be run well."
She has won numerous accolades and awards, including being named a New York State Woman of Distinction by the New York State Senate.
At age 62, there is no end in sight for Clifford. And that's despite two screws in an ankle, six in her neck, and four in her shoulder, all from past injuries.
"I keep saying what's next? What else can we do? It's a never-ending process," Clifford said. "I'm always asking, 'What more can I give from my heart to make the world — or Rochester — a better place?' That's the biggest motivator for me."


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We continue our celebration of Picture Book Month with another wonderful selection of picture books picked by our staff.
Don't forget to tell us your favorite picture book in the comments!
So Many Cats! by Beatrice Schenk de Regniers
"My daughter's favorite rhyming/counting picture book about a family with 'an only cat - a sad and lonely cat' who end up with a dozen cats."
-Mike, Library Assistant
Ivan the Terrier by Peter Catalanotto
"It reminds me of our beloved dog, whose antics always made me laugh."
-Lisa D., Library Assistant
Wiener Wolf by Jeff Crosby
"The pictures are great and, having had wiener dogs, I get an extra kick out of the story."
-Bob, Library Assistant
Moo! by David LaRochelle
"Moo Mo Moo, mo mooo, moo…"
-Lisa C., Library Assistant

subset: commoncrawl


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Why do UV imaging?
There are many people who love a challenge e.g. climbing Mount Everest, swimming across the Channel etc. UV imaging indeed is challenging for various reasons.
1) The camera sensor is more sensitive to both visible and infra-red light, than to UV. Hence the UV light required to illuminate the subject for UV imaging needs to be many stops more than for visible-light photography. So either you will need a tripod-mounted camera to allow long exposures using sunlight (where wind and cloudy weather is your worst enemy) or a very powerful uncoated Xenon flash to provide the UV light.
2) The lens will need to pass enough UV spectrum to the sensor to capture the detail of the subject. Most lenses have glass, coatings or optical cements used in the construction, which absorb UV, which make them unsuitable. There are lenses made for UV-imaging, but these are very costly. Fortunately some older lenses can be used for UV-imaging; I shall reveal some lenses I have found to be useful in subsequent posts.
3) The UV-pass filter needs to block enough visible and infra-red light, while letting through as much UV as possible. The reference UV-pass filter currently is the Baader U Venus 2″ filter (not the 1.25″ version which has IR-leak). But there are cheaper alternatives out there, which I will also mention in a later post.


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Infographic(ish): Good Green Production Bible: reduce the environmental cost of your marketing
Okay, so this is not strictly an infographic (although can anyone tell us what is?) but it's close enough. And it's for a good cause, to boot.
The Good Green Production Bible has been created as a collaboration between Greenshoot Pacific and Republic of Everyone, to encouraging the advertising industry and its stakeholders to cut the waste, think before we throw it away, and show the world we can make good ideas without making such a big mess of the planet we all depend on.
Click on any of the sample images below (or just click here) to download the whole thing.
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SBS Doctoral Candidate Kanathy Haney Receives Two Distinctive Honors
Social and Behavioral Science Doctoral Candidate Kanathy Haney has been awarded two distinctive honors, the Palm Beach State College Employee Recognition Committee's Bravo Award and the 2017 Dr. Martian Luther King Jr. Faculty Leadership Award. Palm Beach State's Employee Recognition Committee presented the coveted Bravo Award to two College employees each year. The award recognizes employees who go above and beyond the call of duty. The winners were chosen from a pool of 32, all nominated by peers for their exceptional efforts that embody the College's mission to foster student success. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Leadership Award was established by Palm Beach State College to honor individuals and organizations that have made major innovative contributions toward improving the lives of others, particularly the underserved, through leadership, service and/or programs. These contributions can be in the areas of education, diversity, race relations, health care, social justice and economic empowerment.
As a Professor at Palm Beach State College's Lake Worth Campus, she is a strong advocate for the underserved and vulnerable population of those afflicted by the crime of human trafficking. In her spare time, she services as chair of the Palm Beach State College Human Trafficking Coalition. The main focus of this remarkable coalition is to create community partnerships with local human trafficking organizations. Professor Haney, has a deep passion for educating her local community and the Students, Facility and Staff of the Palm Beach State College community as well. As a monthly volunteer at the Rescue Upstream call center in partnership with Life of Freedom Center, she works to reach out to potential sex trafficking victims and those appearing to be on the missing children's list. In addition to her volunteering, she has created a service learning course in human trafficking to train aspiring abolitionists or those who are interested in learning more about the issues of human trafficking as well as developed prevention programs.
The YouTube below clip is a talk Professor Haney gave at the Rescue Upstream and the PBSC Lake Worth Human Trafficking Awareness event to increase awareness and prevention of sexual assault.
"If anything that I'm doing can help shed more light on the people who are victims of this crime against humanity, then we can all work together to emancipate human souls."
-Professor Kanathy Haney, Social and Behavioral Science Doctoral Candidate


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Chemistry Capabilities
Several Mono, Di and Poly saccharides, including oligosaccharides have been synthesized and scaled-up.
-Validation of processes and test methods have been completed according to ICH guidelines.
Proprietary know-how has been developed for carbohydrate synthesis, purification and analysis.
-Diagnostic agents
-Liquid APIs
-Potent compounds
-Small molecules with complex synthetic routes and purification procedures
Small to large amino acid sequences
Apicore LLC
685 Route 1 South
2nd Floor
North Brunswick, NJ - 08902
Phone: (732) 748 - 8882
Fax: (732) 748 - 8929
Email: email@example.com
Apicore Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd.
Block no. 252-253,
Opp. Jain Irrigation Co.,
Padra-Jambusar Highway,Tal. Padra,Village Dhobikuva-391440,
Dist. Vadodara,Gujarat,India
Phone: 91-2662-267166 / 267183 / 267177
Fax: 91-2662-267172
Email: email@example.com


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It's no secret that Bob Dylan's influences are many, and he is never shy to reveal and champion the artists whose music touched him and provided inspiration for his own astonishing body of work. Chief amongst these celebrated songwriters and performers is a man whose life was chaotic, whose health was poor and whose morals were, albeit generally well intentioned, quite often dubious.
But Woody Guthrie – for it is he – composed and performed music that lifted the sprits of just about everyone who witnessed it, often during times of severe national depression and war, in which his North American homeland was so entrenched during the best part of his professional life. Bob Dylan would later say of his first taste of Woody's music; " I was stunned–didn't know if I was stoned or straight. All these songs made my head spin. It made me want to gasp. It was like the land parted …".
Dylan has to date recorded or performed a total of fifty-one Woody Guthrie tracks, everyone of which is presented on this 2 disc collection. From the song which has become the alternative US national anthem, 'This Land Is Your Land', to cuts which many will associate first and foremostwith other artists, such as 'Tom Joad', 'Bad Leroy Brown' and 'Gypsy Davey' - via obscure Guthrie numbers which the listener may well witness here for the first time, this joyous collection is all at once inspiring, educational, joyous and entertaining and will delight just about anyone with an ear for a great tune.
1: Tom Joad (part 1) (Trad., Guthrie)
2: Tom Joad (part 2) (Trad., Guthrie)
3: This Land Is Your Land (Trad., Guthrie) (2:29)
4: Pastures Of Plenty (Trad., Guthrie)
5: Who's Gonna Shoe Your Pretty Little Feet (Trad., Guthrie)
6: Columbia Stockade Blues (Darby, Tarlton)
7: 900 Miles (Instrumental) (Trad., Guthrie)
8: Blue Yodel No. 8 (Muleskinner Blues) (Rodgers, Vaughn)
9: The Biggest Thing a Man Has Ever Done (Trad., Guthrie)
10: Jesus Christ (Trad., Guthrie)
11: Talking Columbia (Guthrie)
12: Talking Merchant Marine (Talking Sailor) (Guthrie)
13: House Of The Risin' Sun (Trad., Guthrie)
14: Gypsy Davey (Trad., Guthrie)
15: Buffalo Skinners (Trail Of The Buffalo) (Trad., Guthrie)
16: Jesse James (Trad., Ledbetter, Guthrie)
17: Riding In My Car (Car, Car) (Guthrie)
18: Hangknot, Slipknot (Guthrie)
19: Talking Fish Blues (Trad., Guthrie)
20: Ramblin' 'Round (Guthrie, Ledbetter, Lomax)
1: Don't You Push Me Down (Guthrie)
2: Howdido (How Doo Do) (Guthrie)
3: Come See (Guthrie)
4: I Want It Now (I Want My Milk) (Guthrie)
5: Dead Or Alive (Poor Lazarus) (Trad., Guthrie)
6: Sally Don't You Grieve (Guthrie)
7: Pretty Boy Floyd (Trad., Guthrie)
8: 1913 Massacre (Trad., Guthrie)
9: I Ain't Got No Home (Guthrie)
10: Hard Travelin' (Trad., Guthrie)
11: Ranger's Command (Trad., Guthrie)
12: What Did The Deep Sea Say? (Monroe)
13: Goin' Down The Road Feeling Bad (Guthrie, Hays)
14: Grand Coulee Dam (Trad., Guthrie)
15: Bad Lee Brown (Trad., Guthrie, Houston)
16: Danville Girl (Guthrie)
17: Golden Vanity (Trad)
18: Froggie Went A-Courtin' (Trad)
19: Stackolee (Trad., Guthrie)
20: Do Re Mi (Guthrie)
21: Talking Dust Bowl Blues (Guthrie)


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Flat Fee Pricing
Whenever possible, I offer hassle-free flat fee pricing for my services. When you agree to a flat fee, you don't have to worry about paying extra for emails and phone calls; everything related to your agreed-to services is included in the flat fee. Each pricing plan is specific to each client and the services required to resolve their legal matter. The cost of each representation is determined by a number of factors, including the type of legal issue, the degree of complexity, and time expected to handle the matter. Each pricing plan is fully explained and representation does not begin until the client knows the total cost and agrees to it. When there are multiple potential steps to resolve your legal matter, I'll explain the fees for each and you can choose how to proceed. Even if your matter cannot fit within a flat fee model, when possible, I will try to structure my services to be at least partially covered by a flat fee. Thus, limiting the hourly fee portion of your bill.


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Anniversary Flowers
Need anniversary gift ideas? Razzle Dazzle Flowers & Gifts can help! We've got all types of flowers for an anniversary. Select classic roses, a modern bouquet or even a plant. Nothing says love and romance like surprising your loved one with a stunning bouquet on your special day! Razzle Dazzle Flowers & Gifts delivers to Mesa, AZ and nationwide, for a real surprise they won't soon forget!


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OPA Officers and Board of Trustees
OPA Officers
Brigid Groves, R.Ph., PharmD, MS
President Elect
Tod J Grimm, R.Ph., MBA
Vice President
Joel Levitan, R.Ph.
Executive Committee Member-At-Large
Zach Broshes, R.Ph., PharmD
Tim Ulbrich, R.Ph., PharmD
Past President
Ryan Schneider, R.Ph., PharmD, PhD
OPA Board of Trustees
District 1
Deb Randall, R.Ph.
District 2
Greg Kramp, R.Ph., PharmD
District 3
Kristen Sobota, R.Ph., PharmD
District 4
Matt Parriman, R.Ph., PharmD
District 5
Melody Hartzler, R.Ph., PharmD
District 6
Eric Gillespie, R.Ph., PharmD
District 7
Karlyn Neff, R.Ph., Pharm.D.
District 8
Austin Hilverding, R.Ph., PharmD
District 9
Jeff Steckman, R.Ph., PharmD
District 10
Jeff Polzin, R.Ph.
District 11
Dan Krinsky, R.Ph., MS
District 12
Matt Fettman, R.Ph.
District 13
Tony Ciaccia, R.Ph.
District 14
Courtney Myers, R.Ph., PharmD, BCGP
Cedarville University
Renee Allison
Northeast Ohio Medical University
Korie Maryo
Ohio Northern University
Alex Nixon
Ohio State University
Natalie Hagy
University of Cincinnati
DJ Duda
University of Findlay
Olunife Akinmolayan
University of Toledo
Haley Schenavar


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Olive Branch Commercial Roofing
Professional Commercial Roofing Services from a Highly Experienced Team
Preferred Commercial Roofer of Olive Branch
We are the preferred commercial roofing company that local businesses trust for expert services. We've replaced and repaired the roofs of countless commercial buildings, including:
Historic Commercial Roofer
We are even highly experienced in commercial roofing services for historic structures, working closely with business owners and property managers to ensure these special buildings retain their historic value with unparalleled craftsmanship.
Commercial Roofing Certifications and Awards
Excellent Roofing is a GAF Triple Award Winning Master Contractor. You'll be hard-pressed to find a more qualified commercial roofing contractor for your place of business in the Memphis, TN area. If those certifications aren't enough, consider that we hold an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
The Perfect Roofing System For Your Commercial Building
We'll inspect your building and work closely with you to determine the best roofing system for your property, whether you need a new roof or a repair for your existing structure. We install the following types of commercial roofing systems:
Looking for residential roofing services in Olive Branch?
We provide residential and commercial roofing services for in Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi.


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The United States Government Accountability Office released a report Wednesday on the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, GAO announced on its wesite. Titled "Enhancing Data Collection Could Improve Management of Investigations," the report, originally published June 30, but just made public today, "addresses (1) how ATF's priorities for its criminal law enforcement investigations have changed since fiscal year 2003 [when the agency was transferred from the Department of the Treasury to the Department of Justice], (2) ATF's staffing challenges, and (3) the extent to which ATF has data to monitor the timeliness and outcomes of delayed denial investigations.
"GAO recommends that ATF establish a mechanism to provide headquarters managers readily available data to better monitor the timeliness and outcomes of delayed denial investigations," a summary concludes. "ATF concurred with the recommendation and ATF officials outlined steps they plan to take to address it."
Unaddressed in the report, addressed to Charles E. Grassley, Ranking Member Committee on the Judiciary, United States Senate, and F. James Sensenbrenner, Jr., Chairman Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations Committee on the Judiciary, House of Representatives, are concerns expressed by gun owners about ATF powers, by Federal Firearms Licensees about inspection inconsistencies and application of rules and revocations, by firearm developers about arbitrary and often contradictory rulings, and by whistleblowers and disaffected agents about agency waste, abuse and corruption.
For his part, Sensenbrenner has introduced a bill proposing to dissolve ATF and blend its functions into other existing agencies, rather than try to fix it with GAO recommendations. While many gun owners instinctively will applaud such a sentiment, this won't be the same as booting the BATFE. Since functions gun rights activists consider unconstitutional won't disappear along with the bureau, enthusiasm needs to be tempered with caution. Support for the idea by the decidedly leftist and anti-gun Center for American Progress should be all the warning needed to conclude the devil will be in the details, and a merger into other agencies will most likely result in an out of the frying pan, into the fire end result.
That's the conclusion of citizen journalist, blogger, speechmaker and self-admitted smuggler Mike Vanderboegh on his Sipsey Street Irregulars blog.
"Close to being the worst idea ever," Vanderboegh told his readers about the Sensenbrenner proposal. "If John Dodson had been an FBI agent, he would have been found mysteriously dead in the desert and no one — NO ONE — would have ever heard about Fast and Furious."
UPDATE: Dave Workman talked to one of Sensenbrenner's aides.


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Have you heard of Quadra Island, BC? If you haven't – you are in for a treat, because this island is amazing, and under the radar for tourism. Read on to find out more about beautiful Quadra Island on Canada's West Coast…
After our positive experience on Denman Island, we were excited to explore another of BC's beautiful islands, Quadra Island, which is one of the Discovery Islands off Northern Vancouver Island.
I hadn't heard much about Quadra Island – we were basically just going because we found a volunteering opportunity there through Help X. But I am so glad that we did visit, because Quadra Island is incredible, and it is pretty well under the radar for tourism.
I know the term 'hidden gem' is overused, but it really does describe Quadra so well.
Arriving on the Quadra Island Ferry
We took the short Quadra Island ferry ride from Campbell River to Quadra Island where our host, Linda, was waiting for us. The Quadra ferry comes into the community of Quathiaski Cove, one of the three main centres on the island, along with Heriot Bay and Cape Mudge.
We stopped to look around the small shopping centre in Q Cove while Linda ran some errands. There was a fantastic book shop specialising in British Columbia coastal books that I somehow managed to not buy, it always helps when you don't actually have any money.
Our Quadra Island Accommodation
After leaving the shops in Q Cove we headed over to the other side of the island to Heriot Bay where Linda's guesthouse is located. It is right on the water and offers a range of different accommodation choices including a float home (not in the water), a cottage, boathouse cabin, dorm rooms, apartments and a main house with B&B rooms.
Linda has made it so cosy and I love that there are different types of accommodation at different prices. It is exactly the sort of place I would love to own myself one day.
Heriot Bay has stunning views of the tiny Breton islands, Rebecca Spit and the snow-capped coastal mountains on the mainland. I fell in love with the place instantly. It really is incredibly scenic. The water is so still and clear and I wish it had been warm enough to swim.
Linda put us in the float home first but as the mattress was only a single, she said we could stay in the Boathouse cabin, provided we kept it tidy in case someone wanted to rent it. Trav and I are both super tidy so that was no problem.
The boat house is along a beachside path and, although small, it is a completely self-contained studio style apartment comprising a raised double bed, a cute little kitchen and a dining table with an outdoor shower and outhouse toilet.
Trav was brave and showered outside everyday but it was too cold for me! I used the shower in the main house and even had a couple of highly relaxing baths in one of the B & B rooms, what a treat!
The boathouse is built on stilts out over the pebbly beach. Every morning when we woke up, we made coffee in our little kitchen then sat at the table, looking out over Heriot Bay. We saw bald eagles and seals out of the window, only metres away from us. Watching the sun rise through the morning mist was a great way to start each day.
We were also spoilt with really good food. Jess, one of Linda's friends, was staying for the first three days we were there and made us lunch and dinner each day. She is a Kayaking Quadra Island guide and cook in summer and is a cook at a ski lodge in winter. She is very good at what she does.
We had fresh salmon, homemade soups and salads, apple crumble, locally picked mushroom pasta and slow cooked stew.
If it started getting cold in Denman, then it really settled in on Quadra – Quadra Island weather is cold in October! It was lucky I got warm clothes at the Free Store on Denman, because I needed to wear pretty much all of them to keep warm on the frosty mornings and chilly nights as the season of crimson leaves and pumpkins gripped the island.
Despite the cold, it was sunny nearly every day that we were there, in stark contrast to our soggy sojourn on Denman.
Volunteering on Quadra Island, BC
As we were at the guesthouse in the off season, there weren't any guests staying for the week we were there. Because there were no rooms to clean, we did some odd jobs such as weeding, creating a rock garden, cooking, cleaning, and Linda even took us mushroom picking.
Chanterelle mushrooms grow in the forests of Quadra in fall. These unusual looking, bright orange fungi grow in clusters amongst the moss at the base of trees. We went to an overgrown section of the forest where Linda had picked before.
There were so many large mushrooms and within half an hour of clambering over fallen, rotting trees and moss covered undergrowth, we had filled a bucket each. I lost the others and it was fun exploring the hidden forested world by myself. I wouldn't have been surprised to bump into a fairy or a gnome, it was certainly a fairy tale setting.
Falling for Stunning Heriot Bay
Heriot Bay with its natural beauty just invited a stroll. On a few afternoons after finishing work for the day we went for a wander around the streets and harbour of this tiny community.
The Heriot Bay Inn and Pub is nestled in a prime position, perched above the branch strewn and pebbled beach, awash with the colours of the season from the stately maple trees fringing the property. We sat under the brilliant coloured trees and went for walks along the curved beach, checking out the weather-worn fishing boats in the harbour.
A Little Bit About Quadra Island
Quadra Island has 2700 year round residents including the We Wai Kai band of the Laichwiltach People, part of the Kwa' Kwa' Ka' Wa'Kw First Nation. It is the largest island in the Discovery Islands chain between Vancouver Island and the mainland.
There are a number of lakes on Quadra and over 200km of hiking trails through untouched forest – there are so many things to do on Quadra Island yet it is so relaxed as well. My kind of place.
Things to do on Quadra Island
We had to do some hiking on Quadra Island so on our day off Linda dropped us at the Chinese Mountain trailhead, one of the most popular Quadra Island hikes. The trail leads to the summit of the north and south peaks of Chinese Mountain, with beautiful ocean and mountain views.
It was a fairly easy hike past yellow leaved trees and exposed moss covered rock. We went up to the north peak first which was a bit of a detour off the main loop trail.
There is a beautiful view at the top of Discovery Passage and Vancouver Island. We didn't see anyone else out walking despite it being a beautiful, sunny Thanksgiving Sunday. Once we got to the top of the south peak we finally saw a few people around.
The view from the top of south peak was spectacular, looking out over the west coast of Quadra Island, Morte Lake, Rebecca Spit, Discovery Passage and the Coast Mountains of Vancouver Island.
We ate our packed lunch at the top and checked out all of the viewpoints before starting the second half of the loop to hike back down. I lost Trav for a while when he went down the wrong path but we found each other again before long.
We hitched once we got back on the road and scored a ride straight away with another couple that had also just finished the hike. They were visiting from Courtenay where they have a farm. They take on woofers so we told them about Help X and how it works. They were very interested and said they would check it out.
Rebecca Spit is another definite highlight of Quadra Island. It is a narrow 2km sand spit with trails and driftwood strewn beaches. Linda took us there on our first afternoon for a wander. More fantastic views of the snow-capped Coast Mountains, the Breton Islands and Heriot Bay.
It was a fantastic introduction to the natural beauty of this island. We sat on the beach and watched the ferry silently round the tip of Rebecca Spit, making its trip to Cortes Island.
A fun afternoon was spent kayaking around Heriot Island using the kayaks from the Guesthouse. I am not a keen kayaker usually. It is an activity that I always think will be great fun but when it comes down to it, I haven't enjoyed most of my kayaking experiences, mainly because I get seasick.
Yep, I get seasick from kayaking. Weird huh? I also get seasick when I (try to) surf. I really love the sea but it doesn't like me.
The water is so calm in the bay so I decided to give it another try and I am so glad that I did. We only went out for an hour but it was such a beautiful experience.
We saw hundreds of jellyfish swimming at different depths in the inky black water and a great blue heron perched to dive for fish on the rocky island. I will definitely go kayaking again but perhaps only when the water is calm.
Attending Community Events on Quadra Island
We like to attend community events when visiting small towns if possible, as it is a fun way to get more of a feel for what life is like for the people who live there. Like on Denman, Heriot Bay is a small, close-knit community and there are a lot of fun activities held nearly every day of the week.
We attended the Premiere of a short film that was filmed on Quadra by a local Director with local actors. It was $5 to attend and there was a massive turn out. There were complimentary homemade goodies, popcorn as well as tea and coffee on offer.
The movie was called 'My Cousin Lived Next Door' and it is about two cousins who grew up together with one ending up as a professional in Vancouver and the other as a drug addict. It was well shot and interesting but I found it a bit hard to follow in regards to the same character being played by 3 different people at different ages. They gave awards to the cast and crew who attended after the film finished. It was a nice feeling to be a part of it.
Another local event, the 'meat draw', is a raffle held at the Canadian Legion every Saturday evening. Linda took us along with her for a drink and the chance to win some meat. The first couple of draws we didn't win anything but on the last draw we won a massive ham and some sausages. Trav thinks that having a raffle for meat is pretty funny but as a New Zealander, this is pretty normal to me.
Linda's friend Frank lives down the road and is a very talented Stonemason. As well as building the outdoor fireplace at Linda's, he was building one in his own backyard along with a pizza oven and invited us all over for a drink by the fire one night.
It was a cold evening but after sitting by the roaring fire for a while we warmed up pretty fast. He had done an amazing job so far and it was nice to sit outside on a cold Fall night, kept warm and entranced by the orange flames against the black night sky.
Thanksgiving on Quadra Island
When we were looking at flights back to New Zealand for October, I was adamant that we fly after Canadian Thanksgiving which is on the second Monday of the month.
Thanksgiving celebrates the harvest and blessings of the past year and is a time for family to come together to feast on turkey and pumpkin pie. It is a lot of Canadian's favourite holiday and I can see why, as it is a time to enjoy spending quality time and eating delicious food with family and friends, without the religious connotation and pressure/cost of gift giving.
Back when we were living in Vancouver in 2009, we didn't celebrate it so I was so excited to be part of this fantastic celebration this time around. Linda invited Frank, her son with his girlfriend and their new born baby, her niece and husband, her friend Leslie and Leslie's woofer.
We had a really fun evening starting with some beers out by the outdoor fireplace that Frank had built, followed by a massive turkey, a baked ham (that Trav and I had won at the meat draw), lots of veggies and two pumpkin pies. Everyone was so nice and we felt so welcome. It felt special to be involved in this quintessential Canadian experience.
Final Thoughts on Quadra Island
I would like to come back and work for Linda again one summer to hopefully learn more about how the business is run and to get some hands on experience. Any excuse really to get to return to Quadra.
One week on Quadra Island was definitely not enough time, especially as we only had one full day off. It is such a beautiful island with so much to explore.
I recommend to anyone that loves nature and hates crowds to make the time to visit this gorgeous isle – you won't regret it.
If you liked this post, check out some of my other Canada content:
- How I Traveled Through Canada on $30 Per Day
- Crypt Lake Hike: One of the Best Hikes in Canada
- Life in Field, BC: The Best Mountain Town in the Canadian Rockies
- How to Spend a Weekend in Revelstoke, Canada
- The Sunshine Coast, BC: Canada's Most Underrated Destination?
- Revisiting Victoria: Canada's English Themed City
- What to do in Summer on Denman Island, Canada
- Hiking Through the Mountains to Stunning Garibaldi Lake
- Why you Should Visit Vancouver in the Fall
- The Best Vancouver Itinerary for 4 Days in Summer
3 Comments on Quadra Island, BC: A Paradise Island off Canada's West Coast
Thanks for the marvelous posting! I definitely enjoyed reading it, you are a great author.I
will ensure that I bookmark your blog and will come
back in the future. I want to encourage you to continue your
great posts, have a nice morning!
loved growing up on Quadra.


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Screen Pops for inbound calls using IfByPhone and Twitter
Image via CrunchBase, source unknown Being in sales, I'm on the phone all the time. I'm calling people, people are calling me. And because I talk to so many people all over the Continue Reading
Another Mashup using IfByPhone and Yelp!
I am living proof that writing mashups isn't as hard as you might think. I am not a developer. I do not specialize in voice mashups. And yet, I can write a mashup that can combine three Continue Reading
Nominate IfByPhone for a Crunchie
The company I work for, IfByPhone is trying to get nominated for a Tech Cruch Cruncie award. If you're familiar with us, I would seriously appreciate you giving us a nomination. We've started to Continue Reading
Cross Post: A simple Phone Mashup with IfByPhone and Yelp
Over on the IfByPhone blog, I posted a note on a mashup one of our guys did with Yelp. With about 30 minutes of effort, and 20 lines of code, we opened up the entirety of the Yelp review database Continue Reading
Web 2.0 Expo: NY 2008
I'm going to be sitting in a booth at Web 2.0 Expo, NY Wednesday and Thursday for IfByPhone. If you are going to be around, stop by. IfByPhone is announcing yet another application to go along Continue Reading
The Lazy Web makes Twitter more valuable
My favorite VC blogger, Fred Wilson has a post today "The Lazy and Smarter Web." He talks about how great social media is because you can ask almost any question, and get great answers. I Continue Reading
Official: Ribbit acquired by BT for $105 mill
Saw the news first on Luca's blog (OFFICIAL: BT acquires Ribbit for 105 Million). The press release can be found here. I discussed this previously here, mainly agreeing with Thomas Howe's take. Continue Reading
IfByPhone's Voice Broadcast iPhone Application
IfByPhone (my employer if you're new here) released it's Voice Broadcast application into the iTunes store. It's pretty simple actually. You choose some contacts, record a message (IfByPhone Continue Reading
Voice APIs and Revenue
Today was a slightly confusing. Phone Boy wrote a post on GigaOM about Voice APIs, asking "is there money in Voice APIs?" His premise: But is simply providing an API to your telephony Continue Reading
Ribbit acquired by British Telecom
Today, the news hit that Voice 2.0 platform player Ribbit is being bought out for $55 million by British Telecom. Great work by the Ribbit team. Full disclosure: My employer is IfByPhone, which - Continue Reading


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Your guest bathroom makes a lasting impression on anyone who stays in or visits your home. A clean, tidy space can feel inviting, but since you do not regularly use this room, you might be unsure about the best way to decorate it. Here are some bathroom decor ideas for this important, but the often overlooked room.
The bathroom decor ideas are very useful tips that will help you in many ways. First of all, it is very important to know that the way you keep your bathroom is the true test of the way you run your house. Often people judge the type of living standards by looking at the bathroom. You would want to welcome anyone who uses your bathroom, and you would also like him or her to have a good image of the same.
Let us thus have a look at some of the bathroom decor ideas.
The thumb rule here is that whatever you do to decorate your bathroom, ensure that all of that is able to withstand the kind of dampness that a bathroom normally has or rather the warm steam or moisture that is obvious in the bathroom.
One of the most wonderful bathroom decor ideas is having scented candles next to the wash basin area, so once you are actually having a bath, you can light them and enjoy the positive energy that they exhibit with the amazing fragrance.
Check This Out: 7 Tips To Survive In A Small Kitchen
The next thing that one must do as a part of the bathroom decor ideas is to have attractive tiles in the bathroom. Having painted walls or plain tiles is boring. To decorate your bathroom and leave an impact on anyone who visits it, the designer tiles would work wonders.
Depending upon the space that your bathroom has, you can put in a Jacuzzi tub as well instead of the normal bathing tub. Get inspiration from the latest hotel that you must have visited.
Pot-Pourri is another accessory that works as great bathroom decor ideas as it always leaves your bathroom smelling and feeling fresh. It also has a very exotic appeal to it.
Place matching and sophisticated looking linen in the bathroom that speaks a lot for itself. Towels of the finest quality and color would really leave a sophisticated feeling in the minds of the guests visiting your bathroom. Your towels, for instance, must also coordinate with the rug that you use.
Mirrors cannot go unnoticed, instead of having a plain mirror, try decorating it, with attractive borders etc. The mirrors can be an extended part of the entire bathroom décor.
The right place to realize the interesting bathroom decor ideas
The best place to get the designer tiles, potpourri, towels, rugs etc. is, of course, the internet. You can sit at home and browse through several ideas and even retailers who help you realize those ideas. You can even get a good steal on the deal, as it is a known fact that a purchase via the internet is always cheaper. So do visit the internet for more bathroom decor ideas.
Keep Reading: How Quickly To Wash the Floor in the Whole House?


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I've been asked several times since the beginning of my blog why I bother. What are the benefits of doing so and why isn't it just a waste of time? While the unspeakable riches, fame and women are certainly good reasons, I have to say that the most important reasons for blogging are personal and mostly intellectual, although I do quite enjoy it when the ladies throw their undergarments at me everywhere I go.
So why should you have your own little piece of internet real estate for all the world to read? Watch your toes, folks. I'm about to drop some knowledge.
1. Blogging helps you set (and keep) goals. I've found that since I've started this, I've been a bit more organized. I make it a point to make one post a day and in doing so, I have to find at least one interesting thing to talk about each day. I haven't missed a day yet since starting on November 6th of 2006.
2. Blogging keeps you sharp and informed. If you publish a site that updates daily like this one (or at least on a regular basis), you'll need stuff to talk about. One of the main reasons some blogs stop updating is because they run out of things to talk about. Of course, you could simply stop updating or you could see this as motivation to learn more. I read two newspapers (The Vancouver Sun and The Globe and Mail) now every day and scour online news sites regularly. Not only do I have more topics to discuss but I'm expanding my personal knowledge as well. It's a nice side effect. People who are more informed are more interesting. True story.
3. Blogging is a great way to meet new people. Although I already knew John, Carl and Leo, nearly everyone else in the blogging community is a new face to me. It's a great way to network and have fun with folks that you otherwise would've probably never met. You'd be surprised how many interesting folks you'll meet if you get yourself into the blogging community.
4. Blogging gets your voice heard. It's possibly the easiest (and cheapest) way to get your say in on whatever you want. Not all of us are going to have newspaper columns or TV shows but the world is changing and the blogosphere is becoming a very powerful media entity. Blogs are quickly becoming more and more influential in many different aspects of the world. Your blog is more important than you think. Heck, even if you don't talk about anything particularly earth shaking, everyone deserves to have their story heard. There's a blog and an audience for just about everything.
5. Blogging can earn you some extra income. Or even primary income! While I'm not quite up to the earning level of some higher profile bloggers, this site has more than paid for itself and has easily been enough to fund my Dot Com Pho bill every Saturday at the very least. However, if you focus on making money with your blog, you probably won't make much since no one wants to read blogs that are just there to make the blogger a couple extra bucks. They're just not interesting to read. However, if you have a good blog that gives your personal take on stuff people care about, you'll probably see a good return on your invested time.
Of course, I'm sure there are more benefits to having a blog but hey, this site is still growing and I've only been at it for a few months. If I stumble on anything else, I'll be sure to let you know.


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Statistics 101
Audio podcast: Enjoy the Podcast? Don't miss an episode, subscribe via iTunes, Stitcher or RSS Leave us a review in iTunes Target Audience: Anyone looking to understand basic statistics or get a refresher Abstract: We can be better at our jobs if we have a good grasp of basic statistics. It doesn't matter if you're…Read More


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Polygamy and Human Rights Violations
By Rebecca Kimbel Mscd CEO DTM
Polygamy based on religion has a built in "cultural" requirement for acceptance of God, husbands and family. Women who do not "choose" to comply are shunned by their religious group, disowned by their families and damned by their God. Some become victims to "blood atonement" and "honor killings", condoned by the "God given" rights of husbands.
Choices in cultures of coercion are not choices. They are violations of human rights. Those who violate human rights assume they are "better" than others. They elevate themselves "higher" to make others "lower." Those "higher" make the decisions and issue the orders and expect those "lower" to obey.
The "higher" one creates two standards, one for them and one for "lower" lesser human beings. Rules they force others to live by are harsh and strict, and don't apply to them. They take liberties and pleasures they would never allow the "lower ones." They demand a full accounting of what "lesser ones" do and where they are, but where the "higher one" is and what he does is none of their business. These are the hallmarks of a polygamist husband's relationship with his wives.
In polygamy the infidelity of polygamist husbands is not called infidelity. It is called a "test from God" (for wives). Multiple partners take him to Godhood, but if she is disloyal to him, she "shall be destroyed." Her constantly dwindling personal relationship with him is her religious duty.
I am a product of polygamy, as were my parents. As a polygamist wife, my mother's sorrowful countenance overshadowed her verbal support of polygamy. Consequently, my father visited less and less, until there were years at a time we never saw him. He blamed mother for her joyless empty life, our poverty and even his refusal to visit his children, yet he owned, overshadowed and controlled every aspect of her life. Like all FLDS women of obedience, mother spoke the praises of polygamist love and joy, and wept alone at night because her God hated her enough to make her a woman. Mother's polygamist life is typical.
FLDS traditional dress requires women cover everything except their head and their hands. Unlike Muslim women, they are not required to cover their heads. Obedience and control of women is absolute in religious polygamy. Sexual pleasure for women is preached against and forbidden. FLDS Polygamists tell women sex is only for procreation; and, of course, there is always a woman somewhere who isn't pregnant, so men have the joy of "God's work" elsewhere. Muslims resort to female genital manipulation; by cutting off a woman's clitoris to be sure she never experiences sexual pleasure.
The psychological and emotional needs of women are not called needs; they are called "weaknesses to over come." Mental and emotional abuse is not called abuse; they are called "marriage."
If a polygamist husband were forced to experience the pain his behavior inflicts on his wives, he couldn't cope with it. His wives not only have to cope with it, they must, and they must act and speak as if they love it or suffer heavy consequences. Negative emotion on the part of women is considered evil and results in verbal, emotional and often physical abuse.
The same social pressures that got these women into polygamist marriages also force them to hide their painful devastation when their husband beds other women. Over time women learn to with draw their emotional feelings from their husband as a means of coping. Anguish can only burn so long before it turns to ashes.
The more wives he takes, the more he ignores her. As she ages, he seeks younger women and her already low self esteem plummets. Many polygamist women look forward to death as liberation from their empty marriages, but the "eternal life" they have obediently subordinated themselves for, is taught to be an extension of the same life they now endure, except they will be "crowned Goddesses while they " obey without question and repeat the same slavery and endless childbearing. This realization puts numerous mothers of many children into a real struggle with depression.
If you want to know how polygamist women feel, realize how you would feel if your mate brings someone home to have sex with. The truth lies in your own emotions.
Polygamist women can't protect their children. They can't protect themselves. They can never be free, unless they break their dependence on that which enslaves them, and very few do.


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Number Talk
This this Number Talk, I led the students in two related problems, to check their application of strategies and concepts from the first problem to the second. It was great to hear the students' strategies, mathematical thinking, and the academic discourse we had around the two problems in the first image above. As in all Number Talks, I chose the problems 4 + 6 + 5 and 24 + 16 + 25 purposefully to see if the students would be able to make an connections between the two problems. It was great to see some common strategies used across the two problems.
It was truly amazing to see the students work so hard on the math problems, especially when the day was filled with Halloween-themed activities. What an amazing pleasure it was for me to share that Number Talk with them
Open-Ended Problem Stem
After beginning with a quick warm-up problem and reviewing the importance of showing our work, including every step so our thinking is clear, and labeling our work, I introduced the problem above. I got scared at a Halloween Party and hid under the table. Eventually I built up my courage and peeked from where I was and saw 19 legs. Who could be at the party?
The students immediately had this confused look on their faces. "How could there be an odd number of legs?" "What?!?!" "Do you get it?" "I don't understand." Those responses were just the reactions I anticipated. After a bit of encouragement to attempt the problem, suggestions to talk with their partners, and to think creatively, the students really into the problem.
It was really great to hear and see the students' increased flexible thinking with the problem. As you can see in the pictures in the above gallery, some ideas included an alien costume with three legs, a pirate's costume with a peg leg, and a costume of an elderly person whose cane was mistaken for a leg.
In my closing, I complimented the students with the lifeskills they showed during the lesson. I twas great to see the students demonstrate perseverance, collaboration with partners and as a table group on a difficult problem, effort, and a growth mindset. Those second graders definitely showed an incredible sense of accomplishment and pride when they reflected on their work.
For me, it was an incredible day being at Juana Briones Elementary School - participating in the Halloween Parade, sharing a Number Talk with Charlotte Fang's third graders, and demonstrating an Open-Ended Problem Stem to April McCandless' second grade students.


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Does Government Failure Create Climate Apathy or Determination?
Image credit: George Kelly, used under Creative Commons license.
Matthew recently urged the green movement to regroup, refine and redefine its messaging, now that climate legislation looks unlikely in the foreseeable future and climate skepticism/denialism has undergone a political resurrection. Certainly, the politics of climate progress look more dismal than they have in a good few years. The question is, do we let the failure of government to tackle the environmental issue become an excuse for our own inaction, or do we galvanize ourselves to step up the fight?I missed it when it was first posted, but Erik Blachford over at Terrapass has an excellent piece on staying committed to personal climate action, despite political setbacks. Prompted by a friend who seemed surprised that he " still cared about that stuff" when he brought up his personal carbon footprint, Blachford acknowledges that things are not as rosy as they used to be:
"It stopped me in my tracks, but it's not hard to see why he asked the question. The environmental world sure does seem to have lost some of its luster since the heady days of early 2007, when Al Gore was winning Oscars and Nobels, the IPCC was coming out with seemingly incontrovertible conclusions, and the world looked to finally be on the verge of signing a comprehensive treaty. Now we've got even President Obama declaring a federal climate bill to be dead for years to come."
But far from letting the stalemate evident in our political institutions become a reason to let ourselves off the hook, Blachford argues (paraphrasing David Roberts of Grist) that we need to become "climate hawks" who fight the good fight on as many fronts as possible, leaning forward into the debate, and acting on both a personal and a political level.
Sure, it was all very nice when Al Gore was winning Oscars and Newt Gingrich was arguing for climate action, but it was also easy to feel like the tide was finally on our side. With a resurgence of anti-science, anti-environmental politics going on, now is the time we really need to step up our game.
More on Environmental Politics and Strategy
With Congress Approaching Gridlock, Let's Seize the Moment to Regroup, Refine and Redefine
Environmentalists Need Strategy: Saul Alinsky and the Green Movement
To Win, The Green Movement Needs to Understand Leverage, Not Just Footprints


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- Use big color posters as art reproductions, movie posters, photo posters, music posters, and promotional collectibles.
- Sometimes less is more. Make a striking display using simple posters in a creative way.
- Extend your poster's lifespan by adding a durable aqueous coating.
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There I was last month, having just polished off my latest blog entry for Aptaclub and musing over what I would do for the next two weeks or so before baba was expected to put in an appearance – because most first babies are late right? Then it was 1am and I woke thinking I needed to go to the loo for the umpteenth time except….. I will never forget the look on my other halfs face when I said 'um, I think my waters just broke'.
Now, I am surprising myself as I type this but I have to say – labour, on balance, was not as bad as I thought it was going to be. Now don't get me wrong, it's no picnic but I was honestly expecting a rougher ride. So, what was it that made it not so horrendous? I was very fortunate I believe to have a fairly legendary midwife with me for the duration (and of course the other half, also legendary but in a not-a-qualified-medical-professional kind of way). Her name was Denise and she roams the halls of Holles St. by day and togs out for Ballyboden by night (if she ever reads this, thank you!!).
Denise and I had a chat about how I wanted to do things when I arrived. No great plan really, I'd like to keep moving, see how I get on and always have the option of an epidural on hand. So we walked the corridor – the short corridor that is well worn by many women shuffling up and down day and night. I tried a TENS machine (bit useless, I probably put it on a bit late). Then I bounced on a ball for a while, then I hit the shower sitting on a stool sucking on some delightful gas and air. All of this passed about four hours at which point Denise, almost gleefully, told me that I was almost there and could go the whole way myself. Eh, excellent time for an epidural I thought.
Excellent timing indeed, once that epidural kicked in this mama kicked back and took a nap for an hour or so before the final frontier – pushing. Yeah, it's tough and all that but you are firmly on the labour train at that point and there is no getting off until that baba comes out so I thought 'dig in' and got on with it.
The baba arrived about an hour later, after a little suction assistance. It's a pretty amazing feeling and can be a bit of a blur. I remember her having a little whimper and then opening up those lungs of hers we have become accustomed to since then. I remember her being handed to me, feeling overwhelmed and then laughing as she sneezed explosively all over me – even that was somewhat cute.
Then, all too soon, off to the labour ward where the fun really started – the baba is here now, what do I do now then? Uh oh, I really wish I had read the 'how to look after a baby' book rather than the pregnancy book….
Anne Marie


text: Not long after adidas Basketball's launch of the D.Rose 4, adidas Originals will also add a sneaker to Derrick Rose's canon for the athlete's 25th birthday. The sports giant is set to unveil a custom version of the ever-classic Superstar 80s, inspired by Rose's personality off of the court. Set to release on October 4, the iconic shoe is executed in premium black leather around the upper, contrasted by more textured leather around the striping and eye stay. A pristinely white toecap and outsole juxtapose the upper, which is also nicely garnished with a blue leather interior. Detailing includes a convenient pull tab around the heel, as well as a gold foil tongue logo. Enjoy a look at the Superstar 80s Derrick Rose 25th Birthday Edition, and pick up the shoe at adidas Originals retailers for $100 USD upon its release.


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Research Centers
The College of Engineering is directly involved in the following UA Research Centers:
Alabama Industrial Assessment Center
The Alabama Industrial Assessment Center is one of 26 Department of Energy-funded centers throughout the country tasked with assisting manufacturing plants with energy conservation, waste reduction and productivity increases by issuing a detailed report of energy savings recommendations.
Center for Advanced Public Safety
UA's Center for Advanced Public Safety uses leading edge technologies to offer products and specialized software development services in a variety of areas, particularly traffic safety and law enforcement. CAPS routinely provides a variety of safety studies and planning documents, such as the Crash Facts Books and Highway Safety Plans.
Center for Advanced Vehicle Technologies
Based on interdisciplinary research and education programs, The University of Alabama's Center for Advanced Vehicle Technologies provides the vehicular industry with novel ideas, scientific consultation and progressive research and discovery. The CAVT is at the heart of the automotive industry emergence in the Southeast and is committed to the development of energy secure, safe, environmentally-friendly and efficient vehicles meeting the transportation needs of tomorrow.
Integrative Center for Athletic and Sport Technology
An interdiscplinary center drawing on expertise in engineering, kinesiology, health science and athletic training, the Integrative Center for Athletic and Sport Technology (I-CAST) will be devoted to the development of new technologies and the application of existing technologies for the primary purpose of reducing injury, accelerating recovery from injury, enhancing human performance and optimizing nutrition in performance and recovery.
Center for Sustainable Infrastructure
The Center for Sustainable Infrastructure serves as an innovative technical resource, knowledge center, and educational provider addressing critical issues related to sustainable infrastructure, whether it be at the local, regional, national or global level. The CSI extends its focus to range from materials to full-scale structural systems, including the development of new, novel materials and structural systems as well as the short- and long-term performance of materials and structural systems to service and extreme loading conditions and hazards. The CSI's utilizes a cradle-to-grave approach to infrastructure, including pre-project planning, design, construction, maintenance, renovation/ rehabilitation, decommissioning/deconstruction and reuse.
Center for Materials for Information Technologies
The Center for Materials for Information Technologies is a multidisciplinary research program focusing on new materials for advanced data storage. A major emphasis is on materials for magnetic heads and media, key components in high performance information storage systems.
Environmental Institute
The Environmental Institute's primary function is to be a national leader in the research of environmental sustainability issues related to air, water and land resources.
Remote Sensing Center
The Remote Sensing Center (RSC) conceives, develops, and operates high performance systems for demanding sensing missions. The RSC brings together scientists and engineers in a rapid R&D environment to create game-changing solutions for national and worldwide partners and collaborators.
The University Transportation Center for Alabama
The University Transportation Center for Alabama conducts transportation education, research and technology transfer activities using faculty members and students from The University of Alabama, The University of Alabama at Birmingham and the University of Alabama in Huntsville.
For additional information about The University of Alabama research areas, check out UA's Research website and visit the full list of University of Alabama Research Centers.


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AMD said that the reports were inaccurate and there is no need for a patch from Microsoft to boost the chips' speed.
Reviews of the AMD Ryzen 1800X, 1700X, and 1700 Zen-architecture eight-core 16-thread processors were much better than AMD's last-generation predecessors but there were statistical anomalies that reviewers can't explain.
For example when you run the chips on Windows 10 instead of Windows 7 you get a sudden drop in performance. Some reviewers think that this is a problem with the thread scheduler in Windows 10 failing to prioritise the physical cores over the virtual cores and spreading threaded tasks over the two four-core blocks that make up the chip.
AMD insists that it has found no evidence to suggest that this is the case, and that any difference between Windows 10 and Windows 7 performance is likely to be down to the operating systems' internal architectures.
AMD's Robert Hallock wrote in a community update that the outfit had investigated reports alleging incorrect thread scheduling on the AMD Ryzen processor.
"Based on our findings, AMD believes that the Windows 10 thread scheduler is operating properly for "Zen," and we do not presently believe there is an issue with the scheduler adversely utilising the logical and physical configurations of the architecture."
'We have reviewed the limited available evidence concerning performance deltas between Windows 7 and Windows 10 on the AMD Ryzen CPU. We do not believe there is an issue with scheduling differences between the two versions of Windows. Any differences in performance can be more likely attributed to software architecture differences between these OSes.'
So while the Windows 10 thread scheduler is working fine there is nothing to patch. Which means that Ryzen performance is not going to be lifted further by a scheduler update.
One thing that AMD has found is a flaw in the Sysinternals Coreinfo utility which generates incorrect topology data for Zen-architecture chips. This data could have caused some problems with Windows 10. This can be fixed by upgrading to Coreinfo v3.31 or later.
Hallock, a quirk of the Ryzen 7 1800X and Ryzen 7 1700X processors, can be explained too. Their temperature reporting features a fixed +20°C offset not present on non-X chips. This means that an 1700X at the same temperature as a 1700 will report its temperature as 20°C higher.
According to Hallock's explanation, the offset allows all Ryzen processors to share a single fan speed policy - though whether the offset will affect features like thermal throttling is not revealed.
Hallock answered some of the reviewer's questions about the simultaneous multithreading (SMT), technology which allows the eight-core processors to run 16 threads simultaneously.
Some reviews have discovered that enabling SMT results in a drop in game frame rates, AMD's internal research suggests the opposite.
"Based on our characterisation of game workloads, it is our expectation that gaming applications should generally see a neutral/positive benefit from SMT," Hallock claims.
He cited Arma 3, Battlefield 1, Mafia III, Watch Dogs 2, Civilization VI, Hitman, Mirror's Edge Catalyst, and The Division as either having no performance change at all or benefiting from the presence of SMT.


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Little Lockhart
Our adorable Little Lockhart deer brooch is back in a combination of natural bubble resins with hand-finished details. Wear him close to your heart when your out prancing on the town.
Little Lockhart... your shy hooves tread carefully... the trees be your blanket... let the forest guide you home to me.
Height 70 mm x Width 26 mm x Dog 30mm
Each piece is hand assembled, hand painted and released in limited edition. All designs are made from layered resin. All metal components including brooch clasps, necklace chains and jump rings are made from silver-plated steel. Giftbox included.
Please be aware that resin is akin to ceramic and glass and therefore may be damaged if dropped or knocked. Keep your Erstwilder companion neatly tucked away in this box when not being worn, avoid contact with perfumes, lotions, water and excessive sunlight and you'll have a trusted friend for years to come.


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Code Focused
When you debug a C++ application, the debugger can take a number of detours through lots of trivial functions or code from third-party libraries. You can filter out those unnecessary paths and have the debugger focus on just the code you want.
When I introduced you to this article series, you might remember that I noted that stepping into/over/out of function calls is essential while debugging. Unfortunately, it would be very time consuming to visit all of the code. Sometimes the debugger might lead you to methods that aren't important from your perspective.
Let's look at an example:
class SimpleParam
SimpleParam(const std::string& str, int val) : mStr(str), mVal(val)
void Init() { }
std::string GetStrVal() const { return mStr + std::to_string(mVal); }
std::string mStr;
int mVal;
void CallBackFunction(SimpleParam p1, SimpleParam p2)
std::cout << p1.GetStrVal() << "\n";
std::cout << p2.GetStrVal() << "\n";
/// ...
CallBackFunction({ "Hello", 1 }, { "World", 2 });
Set a breakpoint at the line where CallBackFunction is called and then try to press Ctrl+F11 to step into it. Where will the debugger go? I see something like Figure 1.
In this example, the debugger goes to the code that's available to the debugger -- in this case, it's a constructor of std::string! You can probably be sure that nothing wrong can happen in that library code.
Now, imagine what happens if you have several parameters. When you want to step into a method, you'll first need to visit all code related to the parameters creation. The whole process might be frustrating, and you lose a lot of time before going into the target function. Of course, you might just set a breakpoint at the beginning of the destination code so you can skip all of the unwanted behavior. But there is a better option.
What if you could control and filter out unwanted functions? Prior to Visual Studio 2012, it's relatively tricky to filter out the code and involves playing with some registry values. Fortunately, with Visual Studio 2012 and later, this useful feature was greatly improved. All you need to do is edit the default.natstepfilter Xml file. For Visual Studio 2015, that file is usually located in Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Visual Studio 14.0\Common7\Packages\Debugger\Visualizers (the location is similar in Visual Studio 2012 and Visual Studio 2013).
To add a functions filter, you can use regex expressions. So, in this example, when you want to skip all the std:: function call you can write the following:
and add the following line to default.natstepfilter:
<Name>std\:\:.* </Name>
Please note that the file might be blocked for writing. The file default.natstepfilter is loaded each time a debugger session starts.
You can now set up the most common functions in your project that you don't want to visit during debugging. Usually, those are trivial functions or from third-party code (std, boost?), but just be careful: go overboard and you might filter out too much!
Microsoft Developer Blog Post: "How to Not Step Into Functions using the Visual C++ Debugger"
MSDN Library: "Just My Code"
About the Author
Bartlomiej Filipek is a software developer in Poland who specializes in C++, Windows and graphics programming. He worked for a number of companies developing multimedia, document editors, games, graphics drivers and flight planning systems, and has taught game development at local university. Follow Bart's blog at http://www.bfilipek.com and on Twitter @fenbf.
Printable Format
The Visual Studio Code dev team added new Python tutorials as part of the regular monthly update, this one for March 2020, bringing the open-source, cross-platform code editor to version 1.44.
Some developers prefer to create applications with Microsoft's open-source Blazor tooling from within the open-source, cross-platform Visual Studio Code editor. Here are the top tools in the VS Code Marketplace for those folk, as measured by the number of installations.
VSM Senior Technical Editor Dr. James McCaffrey, of Microsoft Research, explains why inverting a matrix -- one of the more common tasks in data science and machine learning -- is difficult and presents code that you can use as-is, or as a starting point for custom matrix inversion scenarios.
Microsoft engineer Sam Xu says "it's time to move OData to .NET 5" and in a new blog post he shows how to do just that.
Like many organizations that host developer educational events, Microsoft has gone virtual amid shelter-in-place directives and a surge in remote work stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Chapter 4.11
On Ji Han Yu's 12th birthday, his father brought a strange boy and girl home, he'd held their hands and told him that they were his brother and sister, and that he should take care of them.
Ji Han Yu was dumbfounded, but his mother suddenly overturned his huge birthday cake, and started intensely cursing his father.
She'd said "Ji Ming Xuan what are you thinking? Look at yourself, you're a fat, 50 years old, balding, dirty old man, what are you doing with a 20-something girl, even having children? Do you think you're her true love? Without my Cao family's support, your nothing! Take those two wild bastards away from me!"
His father's face had reddened and bloated like a pig, young Ji Han Yu had thought he looked funny and laughed.
His father was angered, he'd pointed at him and ridiculed, "Bastard, why are you laughing? Who the hell do you think you are? She called them bastards, but she's also Cao's bastard. Without Ji Jia's wealth, why would anyone love you? You guys eat from me, take from me, yet still fight against me, ungrateful bastards."
He hadn't understood his words at that time, but they left a deep imprint. That's why he was so angry when he'd heard Lin Chengze say he was just in love with his money, then he thought up that ridiculous plan.
He told Lin Chengze Ji family was bankrupted, that he had nowhere to go. His face was very decadent, but he was laughing his heart. Ji Jia was really bankrupt, all the property those illegitimate children coveted was going down the drain, but for Han Yu, it had no effect.
When his mother had married into the Ji family, grandfather had given her a lot of cash, enough for them to live well for a lifetime. He'd asked his mother for two million, and with his uncle's help, he'd built a factory, the profits were sizable.
He'd pretended to be penniless and asked to live in Lin Chengze's house, hoping he would shelter him. Lin Chengze agreed, but then he started treating him coldly, and transferred his friendliness to his rich friends. Ji Han Yu had looked on from the side, his heart sneering. He'd thought that Lin Chengze had fallen into his trap.
He'd planned to live there a few days then leave, but in that short three days, Fang Youran's selfless care impressed him, so he'd decided to stay. He deliberately got closer to Fang Youran, dragged him into his arms, while he pushed Lin Chengze to his friends, hoping he'd fall into his destructive trap.
Lin Chengze was annoyed by his friends, even Ji Han Yu had noticed, but he'd still do everything to please them. At that time, Ji Han Yu thought Lin Chengze was so hungry for money that he'd endure anything. But later, after the big reveal, he learned the true reason behind his tolerance – it was all for himself.
Ji Han Yu thought that Fang Youran had given him the purest love, he hadn't notice that Lin Chengze's love was even purer, and more desperate. He was like a raging fire, when he loved someone, he was willing to burn himself to ashes for them. When he loved you, he would willingly offer up his soul.
This was the type of true loved Ji Han Yu always desired, but he inadvertently discarded it.
He slept with Fang Youran, when he saw Lin Chengze suddenly appear, he hadn't even been apologetic. Why didn't he immediately beg his forgiveness? Whenever the scene replayed in his dreams, Ji Han Yu would stand in front of himself and over and over again rebuke himself, curse himself, even try to strangle himself.
That night, the bright red paper notes were scattered over the ground, ridiculing him. Ji Han Yu had stood still in the empty room for a long time, then he knelt down and picked them up one by one, until the whole floor was clean. Holding the money was like holding a piece of hot iron, his palm was scalded, but he couldn't drop it.
He had to return it, hundreds of times he tried to go back, hoping to get Lin Chengze's forgiveness.
He recalled all of Lin Chengze's actions, and understood why he still dealt with his friends when he obviously hated them. He'd just wanted them to help him if he got into trouble, everything he did was for his own sake.
Ji Han Yu didn't dare imagine all his hidden tears and struggles, he didn't dare imagine what his thoughts were when he'd realized he'd brought him to a sex drug party.
Fang Youran had helped him sort out the money, then he suddenly clung to him, crying, repeatedly shouting 'sorry'. Those tears would've usually made him pamper him, but it only made him feel sick. Compared to Lin Chengze's desperate efforts, what did Fang Youran have to give up? Why was he even impressed by him in the first place? Just because he was more outwardly caring than Lin Chengze?
Lin Chengze was so proud, he always said that the person who falls first is the loser. Ji Han Yu didn't understand why that was his favorite phrase, now he knew, when he repeated that sentence to him over and over, he was secretly telling him 'I lost to you'. But his pride didn't allow him to admit it out loud, so when he was asked, he just said he loved his money.
Such an awkward temper, yet so lovely. Ji Han Yu had laughed at the thought, then he'd started to cry. He'd pushed Fang Youran away, and roared at him to leave, to get out from his and Chengze's world.
"When I look at you, I feel more disgusting than I already am!" He'd said with blood-red eyes.
Lin Chengze disappeared then, Ji Han Yu couldn't find him anywhere, he resorted to squatting at Cao's door, hoping to see him eventually. In the past, he'd greatly admired and was grateful to Cao Mo Kun, but now, he only felt resentment.
You knew he was my boyfriend, why did you go after him?
Cao Mo Kun just gave him a mocking smile, buying out his feelings for 300,000 was the most successful investment he'd ever made.
Ji Han Yu had no way to fight back at that time, he told himself he must become stronger, more powerful than Cao Mo Kun, so he had a shot at regaining his love.
But soon after, Lin Chengze thoroughly disappeared. Since then, Han Yu suffered from insomnia, he relied on more and more drugs to survive three painful months.
Three months later, a friend sent him a video, his accompanying message was very mysterious. He casually glanced at it, then was stunned, he gripped his phone, greedily staring at the tempting boy on the screen. It was Lin Chengze, the Lin Chengze his heart yearned for, the Lin Chengze who he regretted hurting the most.
"This ad is blowing up on the net!" his friend had called, "Damn, how didn't I notice that Lin Chengze was such a beast! You lent him to Wang Jie but not me, what's the meaning behind that? Ah?! Oh, yeah, now that I think about it, he was your boyfriend, right? That kind of stunner, how could you give him to someone else? You're too daring … … "
Ji Han Yu didn't wait for him to finish before he fiercely smashed his phone, his eyes full of endless hatred.
How could you be so stupid? How could you be so stupid? He'd repeatedly questioned himself- how could you willingly give him out! You're so stupid!
He'd heard a rumor that buying a bottle of Extravagant came with Lin Chengze's promotional poster. Ji Han Yu skipped class that day and rushed to the nearest department store. The counter was crowded with people, everyone was clamoring for a bottle. He was crowded out, when he finally reached the front, the salesman told him they were out of stock.
He couldn't describe the great feeling of panic he had at that time, he felt that'd he'd never be able to touch Lin Chengze again.
He stumbled out the mall, standing in a daze. He looked up, a giant LED screen was showing an interview with top international designer, Orlando. He called Lin Chengze his beauty god, a gift sent from above, like a glass of the purest, finest wine. His appearance could fall angels, if you didn't love him, it was simply a sin.
The last sentence broke Ji Han Yu's heart. He had his love once, but he found out too late.
Lin Chengze showed up on the screen, many people stopped to look up, even a few cars slowed down. Their eyes couldn't conceal their surprise and appreciation.
Ji Han Yu didn't dare look, he left in a trance. Eventually, he used some connections to reserve a few bottles of Extravagant, and he used Lin Chengze's posters to cover his room, it was as if he never left. From that day on, he was able to fall asleep, but his nightmares were plentiful.
He desperately worked, hoping to catch up to Cao Mo Kun as soon as possible. He became a business upstart, a variety of beauties pranced around him, but they could no longer arouse his attention. If you once had the most precious treasure in the world, then you lost it, could you ever hope to replace it?
Lin Chengze was the best, no one could replace him.
Every day, after handling his business, Ji Han Yu went home, tired. He'd sit on the sofa, blankly staring at the wall covered with Lin Chengze's photos. One day, the news reported that Cao Mo Kun was in a car accident, his lower body was seriously injured, he may be paralyzed. Ji Han Yu had frozen for several minutes, then, an insuppressible joy had risen in his heart.
Cao Mo Kun was down, this was the opportunity he needed. What was Lin Chengze feeling right now? Helpless? No, I must find him as soon as possible.
Ji Han Yu immediately stood up and packed his things, he hollowed out his wardrobe to find his most decent suit. He dragged his luggage to the airport, and bought the quickest flight to F country.
About twenty minutes from boarding time, the tv in the boarding gate showed a press conference. Lin Chengze's captivating face appeared. He looked very haggard, but his eyes were striking.
He bravely came out in front of all the media, he looked firmly at the camera and said, "Cao Mo Kun is my lover, I love him, so I will never give up on him. I hope we get everyone's blessings."
At that moment, Cao Mo Kun became the most hated man in the world. Ji Han Yu heard the teen girls who were sitting in the row over burst into pitiful tears. A man angrily kicked his suitcase, muttering that the interview was faked, it was an April Fool's joke etc. In this world, many people madly adored Lin Chengze, but he only loved one person.
Ji Han Yu had laughed, tearing up as he smiled. Why did he think that Lin Chengze would need him? Why did he think that he would accept him, just because Cao Mo Kun was in trouble?
He was Lin Chengze after all, once he fell in love with someone, he'd throw himself into the fire pit for them! His beloved will be the happiest person in the world.
Returning his ticket, Ji Han Yu muddled back to his house and fell into bed. He had a sweet dream. He was sitting next to Lin Chengze in the dining room, helping him pick out the green peppers in his food, seeing him eager to eat, he quickly poured him a glass of warm milk. When he finished his drink, he covered his milk drenched red lips with his own. Lin Chengze's arm wrapped around his neck, his peach eyes glittered, he was so beautiful, so tempting … …
Ji Han Yu woke up with a sweet smile, then he looked around his cold empty room and was brought back to his desperate reality. He'd spent two months hating Lin Chengze, but now, he'll spend the rest of his life loving him.
He always considered moving on, but every day he sank deeper into the past. Lin Chengze had already left him behind, pursuing his own happiness. But Ji Han Yu was trapped in his frenzied memories, never able to escape.
Lin Chengze's love was like a raging fire, his fire had burned Ji Han Yu's soul to ashes, leaving only an empty shell.
And so ends another chapter of FOD.
Next Chapter- ZYS drives a man to use drugs


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You may have your favorite outfit on, and are sporting a new haircut, but if you don't like the way your teeth look it can be a real barrier to confidence. Conversely, finding that confidence can open up doors and bring new opportunities.
Getting that bright white smile, and becoming a more confident you is no longer a distant dream. There are many products on-line, and in drugstores to get you the smile your personality deserves. The first stop on the way to a confident smile is a short walk to the kitchen. Go and take a look. Do you have lemon juice, strawberries or some baking soda? All of these are good for putting the smile back on your face.
Lemon juice is an everyday product that can be used as part of your everyday whitening regime. Just simply brush with it once a day to remove the discolouring film that gets left on your teeth by things like coffee and red wine. And if you are a smoker then you will know how smoking can leave marks on your teeth.
A small amount of baking soda in a finger of water can work wonders at removing stains. It is recommended that you don't use baking soda on your teeth every day; brushing too regularly with baking soda may be harmful to your tooth enamel. You can also mix the strawberries with baking soda. Just squash the strawberries in to a pulp and add the baking soda, then brush over your teeth.
There are a lot of safe and revolutionary products out there, and there is no need to worry anymore about the way your teeth look. Take action to get a whiter smile by researching tips, and reviews of products on the internet. In no time at all, you can find the right product for you, and a brilliant white smile can be yours.


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WASHINGTON, Aug. 30 -- How does tobacco trigger the more than 170,000 cases of lung cancer that have already been diagnosed this year? While nearly 90 percent of them involved smokers, according to research estimates, only about 25 percent of all smokers are said to develop lung cancer. Why? What disposes some and spares others?
Researchers will discuss these types of questions and share new biochemical and epidemiologic studies, review key findings, and discuss lingering issues in a special symposium: "Tobacco Carcinogenesis," on Tuesday, Aug. 30, during the American Chemical Society's 230th national meeting in Washington, D.C. The symposium will be held at the Renaissance Washington Hotel, East Ballroom, from 8:00 a.m. to noon.
Stephen S. Hecht, Ph.D., head of cancer prevention at the University of Minnesota Cancer Center, and Trevor M. Penning, Ph.D., a professor of pharmacology and principal investigator of a program project on carcinogenesis at the University of Pennsylvania, organized the symposium, which includes scientists from academia, government and industry. Highlights include:
An overview of tobacco carcinogenesis -- What are the major classes of tobacco carcinogens? How might these compounds lead to cancer? As the symposium proceeds, researchers will explore specific tobacco cancer biochemistry in greater detail. For instance, Professor Penning will discuss the ways in which one variety of carcinogenic compounds -- polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons -- may form lesions in DNA, which can lead to gene mutations that allow cancer cells to emerge and grow unchecked. (TOXI 30, Tuesday, Aug. 30, 8:00 a.m.)
Epidemiology of tobacco-related cancer -- Scientists estimate that only 25 percent of smokers develop lung cancer. Why do some smokers escape the disease, while others die from it? To find out, Peter G. Shields, M.D., director of cancer genetics and epidemiology at Georgetown University's Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, is conducting clinical studies to assess individual differences in response to tobacco carcinogens. Shields will present recent data on this effort. In another epidemiological talk, Mimi Yu, Ph.D., a professor at the University of Minnesota Cancer Center, will report on recent studies of a known bladder carcinogen found in smokers. (TOXI 35 & TOXI 36, Tuesday, Aug. 30, 9:40 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.)
Panel discussion -- A diverse group of scientists, including academic researchers, a government scientist, two tobacco industry researchers from Philip Morris and an independent industry consultant, will provide different perspectives on critical issues facing the field of tobacco-associated cancers. What are the most important carcinogens in tobacco products? How would their reduction/elimination impact cancer mortality among people who continue to smoke? What's the best way to evaluate a tobacco product's carcinogenic potential? (Tuesday, Aug. 30, 10:40 a.m.)
The American Chemical Society is a nonprofit organization, chartered by the U.S. Congress, with a multidisciplinary membership of more than 158,000 chemists and chemical engineers. It publishes numerous scientific journals and databases, convenes major research conferences and provides educational, science policy and career programs in chemistry. Its main offices are in Washington, D.C., and Columbus, Ohio.


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Rising ozone levels point to tangled web of Texas permitting
KARNES CITY, Texas -- For four months, Jeanne Shepherd took notes daily on the sounds and smells coming from a natural gas compressor station near her home here. The plant, the Patton Trust South Production facility, gathers and processes natural gas from wells drilled in the Eagle Ford Shale field. Shepherd said it made noises like howitzer fire when its flares lit and it gave off a low-level vibration that kept her from sleeping. The noise has decreased some since state inspectors visited the site in 2012. "Now it sounds like very distant artillery," she said in an interview. She continues to document noises and odors from other drilling sites around her 16-acre property almost daily. But the real bombshell may land in San Antonio, 50 miles to the north.


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Teacher Support
The Institute supports teachers along all intersections of the teacher career continuum. Through our various supports, we have the capacity to reach teachers from Nevada's 17 school districts, supporting equitable distribution of effective educators. These aims align with Nevada's Every Student Succeeds Act Consolidated State Plan, the Nevada Ready! State Improvement Plan: Shifting to a New Nevada 2017-2021.
Effective teaching practices can occur along each intersection of the career continuum. Our differentiated supports and custom Match Program ensure that teachers receive the support they need; when the need it and wherever they are along the continuum.
Pre-Service Teacher
These are teachers in their last year of a college or university training program and are engaged in student teaching. At this level, pre-service teachers are building competency in their content area(s) through practice-based teaching. Pre-service teachers can request to be paired with a National Board Certified Teacher to provide guidance and support during the student teaching experience and during the transition to a full-time licensed teaching position. Mentorship and facilitated guidance have been shown to support teachers as they enter the profession and contribute to increased rates of retention and persistence.
Novice Teacher
These are teachers with up to three years of teaching experience. At this level, teachers are working to build experience and effectiveness through practice; embedding the National Board Standards and the Five Core Propositions into their planning and reflection. Through our Match Program, novice teachers can request to be paired with a National Board Certified Teacher and benefit from having first-hand accomplished teaching experience from the field. These NBCT Educational Leaders can engage in a reciprocal learner-leader model of engagement, which has been shown to demonstrate positive benefits to both the early career teacher, and the teacher leader.
Professional Teacher
These are teachers with at least three years of teaching experience and who have demonstrated the ability to positively impact student learning and growth, and who regularly engage in professional learning opportunities. They are provided support through the schools, local school districts, the state, and national associations. The Institute offers opportunities for professional teachers to engage in ongoing professional learning through our partnerships with local and state organizations. These opportunities provide high quality, differentiated support tailored to the unique needs of teachers.
Board Certified Teacher
These are teachers with at least three years of teaching experience who are in pursuit of achieving certification as a National Board teacher and demonstrate competence as an accomplished teacher. Standards-based evidence is the core of the certification process and requires that teachers provide documentation; grounded and aligned with the Five Core Propositions, of the positive impact they have on student learning. The Institute offers a scholarship reimbursement program up to 100 candidates in each of the 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 school years. Preference will be given to candidates in the high-needs domains of STEM, English as a New Language, and Exceptional Needs. Candidates at this level also benefit from the Institute's Match Program, partnership events and professional learning opportunities, and differentiated component support.
Educational Leader
These are teachers who have attained status as a National Board Certified Teacher and are working to improve and support accomplished teaching throughout their school, district, and state. Through engagement with the Institute, NBCTs have the opportunity to mentor pre-service and novice teachers, model what the Five Core Propositions looks like, and facilitate learning of professional teachers and candidates. Opportunities also exist to lead Component Seminars and engage as part of a leadership team. Finally, Educational Leaders have opportunity to transform policy and practice at all levels of engagement.
For additional information about the various intersections of the teacher career continuum, please see the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.