text:
It is a well known fact that effective strategic leadership is a prerequisite to successfully using the strategic management process. In general, strategic management is the art and science of formulating, implementing and evaluating cross-functional decisions that enable an organization to achieve its objectives. Given this understanding, strategic management process can therefore be defined as the process by which managers make a choice of a set of strategies for the organization that will enable it to achieve better performance. In essence, strategic management process means defining the organization's strategy (Bourgeois, 1985).
In view of the above, the present paper aims at discussing strategic leadership taking into consideration its effect in determining the firm's strategic direction. In this regard, the paper will first give definitions of 'leadership' and 'strategic leadership' respectively for the purposes of conceptual clarity and also to help the reader gain full insight of the discussion. Upon laying this foundation, the influence of strategic leadership on the strategic management process will be demonstrated with the help of a diagram. Immediately after this, six key duties or rather responsibilities of strategic leaders will be discussed. In this respect, the duties that will be discussed include determining strategic direction, establishing balance organizational controls, exploiting core competencies, emphasizing ethical practices, developing human capital and sustaining organizational culture. Finally, a link between strategic leadership and organizational performance will be looked at.
Generally speaking, leadership is a key determinant of organizational performance. Undoubtedly, leaders make a difference. For instance, if one reviews the success of Irish firms, it is easy to conclude that senior managers such a Michael O'Leary of Ryanair and Denis Brosnan formerly of Kerry Group have been integral to the success of their respective businesses. Identically, if one reviews the collapse of many Irish banks, it is difficult to escape the conclusion that poor leadership was a significant contributing factor to what happened (House and Podsakoff, 1995). These illustrations clearly show that leadership is a determinant of the success or failure of a firm.
Most importantly, Robbins et al (2010) defined leadership as the ability to influence a group toward the achievement of a vision or a set of goals. In other words, it is the ability to influence people toward the attainment of organizational goals. On the other hand, it is worth mentioning that there are different styles of leadership. Nonetheless, the main focus of this paper will be on strategic leadership. At this point, it is important to understand what strategic leadership is. According to Hoskisson et al (2004) Strategic Leadership is the managerial ability to anticipate, envision, maintain flexibility, and empower others to create strategic change as necessary. Unlike Hoskisson et al, Rowe (2001) defined strategic leadership as the ability to influence others to voluntarily make day-to-day decisions that enhance the long term viability of the organization, while at the same time maintaining its short-term financial stability.
Having looked at the definitions of strategic leadership, it is also important to discuss the influence of strategic leadership on the strategic management process. Along these lines, it is important to note that effective strategic leadership, and the responsibility for strategic thinking and decision-making, rests at the top of the organization. Most prominently, CEOs must make the strategic decisions and create the organizational context which can lead to long-term organizational success. In other words, CEOs applying strategic leadership greatly influences the strategic management process (Hoskisson et al, 2004). This is evident from figure 1 which is presented below.
Figure 1: The influence of strategic leadership on the strategic management process
Source: (Hoskisson et al, 2004: p36)
We Will Write a Custom Essay Specifically
For You For Only $13.90/page!
order now
Clearly, from figure 1 above, effective strategic leadership is important in the strategic management process. Obviously, effective strategic leadership shapes the formulation of strategic intent and strategic mission which in turn leads to successful strategic actions. Under strategic actions, the firm will formulate and implement strategies which in turn yield strategic competitiveness above average returns. Indeed, strategic leadership greatly influences the strategic management process (Hoskisson et al, 2004).
On the other hand, it is important to mention that there are a number of activities that effective strategic leaders or rather CEOs focus on to contribute to the performance of the organization. These activities include determining strategic direction, establishing balance organizational controls, exploiting core competencies, emphasizing ethical practices, developing human capital and sustaining organizational culture.
The First activity or rather duty of strategic leaders under our discussion is determining strategic direction. Here, the top management team must develop a clear vision for the organization. In this regard, the development, articulation and communication of an exciting vision are critical tasks of the strategic leadership of the organization. They need to paint a picture of where the organization will be in 5-10 years and get staff to buy into and commit to the future. The vision will seek to push and stretch employees beyond their current expectations. The vision serves as a destination for the organization and therefore as a guide for strategy formulation and implementation (Thompson et al, 2007).
In addition, the vision propounded by the senior management team should outline the core values and ideology that the organization intends to live by. If it is to have any impact, the vision must to communicated and reinforced throughout the organization and over time. As an illustration, Mullane (2002) discusses the need to translate the generalities of the vision into measurable or specific targets with commitment from all management levels and areas of the business.
The other responsibility of strategic leaders is exploiting and maintaining core competencies. In this respect, core competencies can be described as the resources and capabilities of a firm that serve as a source of competitive advantage over its rivals; they are those things the firm has or does that allow it to set itself apart from competitors. In this regard, it is the duty of senior management to ensure that the firm's core competences are maintained, invested in and developed over time to ensure they remain relevant. Additionally, senior management needs to ensure that firm's competences are part of the building blocks of the competitive strategy of the firm and that they are leveraged effectively in implementing that strategy. In essence, senior management need to put constructive pressure on the organization to continually improve performance, for example by: Nurturing a results-oriented work climate, Promoting an enabling culture, Setting stretch objectives and expectations and promoting the use of tools such as benchmarking, business process reengineering and six sigma (Thompson et al, 2007).
Unlike the two duties discussed, developing human capital is also another important duty of strategic leaders. In the context of developing human capital, employees are a capital resource that requires investment. Many would accept that in the globalised and dynamic competitive environment, people are perhaps the only truly sustainable source of competitive advantage. Building human capital requires investment in training and development, and requires that senior management provide the support and budget necessary to make this happen. HRM activities have a central role in this, but without active support from the senior management in the organization, such activities will neither have the impetus nor budget to be effective (Ibid).
Furthermore, sustaining an effective organizational culture is another important aspect of strategic leadership. In general, organizational culture consists of a complex set of ideologies, symbols and core values that are shared throughout the organization and influences the way business is conducted. Evidence suggests that a firm can develop core competencies in terms of both capabilities it possess and the way the capabilities are leveraged by strategies to produce desired outcomes. In other words, because the organizational culture influences how the firm conducts its business and it helps regulate and control employees' behavior, it can be a source of competitive advantage (Gupta and Govindarajan, 2000).
By the same token, some organizational cultures operate in a heavy-handed and competitive manner with little room for mistakes and no patience with the expression of discontent. Therefore, it is very important to remember that cultural norms can transmit effective and healthy patterns of behavior as well (Zellner, 1997). However, it is also important to note that organizational culture can be a source of competitive advantage. It creates the context in which the organization develops and implements its strategy, and helps to regulate employees' actions and attitudes. For example, organizational culture can encourage entrepreneurial activity – or discourage it. If an organization can build a strong, healthy culture it can be a powerful competitive asset and facilitate strategy implementation. Due to its nature, it is not possible to manage culture in the same way as, for example, a production process. However, it is possible to help shape an organization's culture. There are a number of influences on the nature of an organization's culture and the senior management teams are perhaps the most important. This group "set the tone" for the organization, through the values they espouse, the behaviors they reward, and probably most importantly, through the recurring communication of the type of culture they wish to see evolve in the organization. Similarly, senior management is in the position to create the selection and promotional policies and criteria that can promote the desired behaviors (Gupta and Govindarajan, 2000).
The other duty of strategic leaders is emphasizing ethical Practices. Obviously, the effectiveness of the implementation of a firm's strategies improves when based on strong ethical foundations and in a culture that promotes ethical behaviors. In the absence of such an ethical culture staff and management may act opportunistically, taking advantage of their positions to benefit themselves. To create and ensure a strong ethical ethos in the organization, senior management must set an excellent ethical example. In the same vein, they must also build a compliance and enforcement process around ethical behavior. For example, developing and communicating a code of ethics, providing ethics training to employees, forming an ethics committee to give guidance on ethics matters and openly encourage employees to report possible infractions (Ibid).
In addition to what has been discussed so far, establishing balanced organizational controls is another duty of strategic leaders. In this regard, it is vital to note that organizational controls are a critical element of effective strategy implementation processes. Hoskisson et al (2004) defined balanced controls as formal, information based procedures used by managers to maintain or alter patterns in organizational activities. Most importantly, organizational controls facilitate making reactive and proactive corrective adjustments to strategies as they are implemented. Similarly, organizational controls allow senior management to determine when adjustments are needed and what adjustments to make. In light of changing circumstances, senior management can reshape long-term direction and strategy and intervene to align internal activities and behavior with strategy (Hoskisson et al, 2004).
Having looked at the duties of strategic leaders, it is also reasonable to discuss the link between strategic leadership and performance. In general, performance can be defined as the record of outcomes produced on a specified job function or activity during a specified period of time (Amstrong, 1994). Likewise, it is important to mention that performance is measured in terms of output and outcome, profit, internal processes and procedures, organizational structures, employee attitudes, and organizational responsiveness to the environment among others. In other words, organizational performance comprises the actual output or results of an organization as measured against its intended outputs (or goals and objectives). Additionally, Richard et al (2009) mentions that organizational performance encompasses three specific areas of firm outcomes: financial performance (profits, return on assets, return on investment, etc.); product market performance and shareholder return (Richard et al, 2009).
Generally speaking, the concept of organizational performance is based upon the idea that an organization is the voluntary association of productive assets, including human, physical, and capital resources, for the purpose of achieving a shared purpose. Those providing the assets will only commit them to the organization so long as they are satisfied with the value they receive in exchange, relative to alternative uses of the assets. As a consequence, the essence of performance is the creation of value. So long as the value created by the use of the contributed assets is equal to or greater than the value expected by those contributing the assets, the assets will continue to be made available to the organization and the organization will continue to exist. Therefore, value creation, as defined by the resource provider, is the essential overall performance criteria for any organization (Jensen and Meckling, 1976).
Notwithstanding the above, it is important to mention that the role of leadership is of fundamental importance to the performance and success of organizations. This includes many aspects like visionary, motivator, enabler, facilitator as well as mentor and coach. At the start-up stage of a business organization, the managing director or leader is responsible for the supply of the product or service, the administration, the management and the sales and marketing. In effect the business is the leader and the leader is the business (Breene and Nunes, 2006).
Furthermore, as the business grows, the leader has to concentrate on the overall strategic direction and delegate some of the operational and technical decisions to appointed staff and employees. The leader has to give responsibility on the basis of trust or design control systems to monitor individual activity. The leader will now also have to employ management and staff with the necessary specialist skills. In order for the business to grow, sales revenue must increase which means that more products are manufactured or quality is improved to justify an increased unit price or product range (Ibid). In essence, there is a definite relationship among the leadership's characteristics, an organization's strategies, and its performance. When the board of directors and the leadership in the organization are involved in shaping an organization's direction, the organization generally improves its performance critical element of strategic leadership and organizational performance, is the ability of leadership to manage and utilize the organization's resource portfolio. This includes integrating resources to create capabilities and leveraging those capabilities through strategies to build competitive advantages and high performance (Jensen and Meckling, 1976).
To sum up, it is worth mentioning that effective strategic leadership is indeed important in determining the strategic direction of the firm. Obviously, it creates the vision and mission of the organization. In addition, this type of leadership has major duties and responsibilities which ensure that the strategic management process is managed. Most importantly, the strategic management process helps the firm employ strategies that will see to it that the business is growing and performance is at its level best.
Amstrong, M. (1994): Performance Management. London, Kogan Page.
Bourgeois, L.J III. (1985) Strategic Management and Determinism, Academy of Management Review 9: 586-596.
Breene, T., and Nunes, P. F. (2006): Going the distance: How the world's best companies achieve high performance, The Journal of High- performance business No. 3.
Gupta, A. K., and Govindarajan, V. (2000): Knowledge management's social dimension: Lessons from Nucor Steel. MIT Sloan Management Review October 15.
Hoskisson, R., Hitt, M. and Ireland R. D. (2004): Strategic Leadership, In Competing for Advantage. South Western: Thompson.
House, R and Podsakoff, P. (1995): Leadership Effectiveness: Past Perspectives and Future Directions for Research, Cited in Greenberg, J. 2011, Behavior in Organizations (10 Edition) Pearson.
Jensen, M., and Meckling, W. (1976): Theory of the firm: Managerial behavior, agency costs, and ownership structure. Journal of Financial Economics, 3(4), 305-360.
Mullane, J. (2002): The Mission Statement is a Strategic Tool: When used Properly, Management Decision. London: Vol. 40, Issue. 5/6.
Richard et al. (2009), Measuring Organizational Performance: Towards Methodological Best Practice. Journal of Management May 6.
Robbins, S., Judge, T. and Campbell, T. (2010): Organizational Behavior. Harlow: Pearson.
Rowe, W. G. (2001): Creating Wealth in Organizations: The Role of Strategic Leadership. Academy of Management Review, 2001, Volume 15, No. 1.
Thompson, A., Strickland, A. and Gamble, J. (2007): Corporate Culture and Leadership. Crafting and Executing Strategy: Concepts and Cases (15th Edition), McGraw Hill.
Zellner, W. (1997): Southwest's Love Fest at Love Field. Business Week, April 28 12E4


text:
Looking for the best concealer? We've got you covered with our top 10 list of the best concealers currently for sale online: Concealers Buying Guide A concealer (also known as a color corrector) is commonly applied on the face to cover up dark circles, pimples and zits, wrinkles, aging spots, and large pores. It also …
LA GIrl
Showing 1 Result(s)

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Zap Manchester United Red Crest Curtains, Pair, 66 x 72 Inch
- 100% Microfibre Readymade Curtains
- Each pack contains 2 curtains, each 66″ wide
- Comes in 72″ drop
- Machine Washable
Loads more Manchester United products at our store including bedding, furniture, lighting, posters, beds and outdoor games.
Please click on the logo to see our other products. Fast shipping. Competitive prices. Great bedroom items.


text:
We'll confirm your reservation by phone or email. Please note that we may not be able to accommodate same-day requests.
Give us a heads up before your next visit and we'll be sure to hold you one of our best tables. Simply fill out this form:
Steps from St. George subway station, the Duke of York is located on Prince Arthur Avenue, just east of Bedford and north of Bloor.
Open for Patio, Takeout, and Delivery every day 12 PM - 10 PM
Phone: 416-964-2441
Fax: 416-964-3517


text:
Saigon Tunnel Management Center hosted a ceremony to begin construction of a new bridge connecting Nguyen Tri Phuong Bridge with Vo Van Kiet Boulevard in Ho Chi Minh City on December 29.
|HCMC leaders attend a ceremony to start work on a new bridge linking Vo Van Kiet Boulevard up to Nguyen Tri Phuong Bridge on December 29 (Photo: SGGP)
The project has a total capital of VND194 billion (US$8.52 million) from the city budget and is expected to complete after 12 months of construction.
Deputy director of the center Le Minh Triet said that the project comprises three branches. The first 122 meter branch will permit vehicles in Vo Van Kiet Boulevard from Binh Chanh to reach Nguyen Tri Phuong Bridge.
The second branch will run from Nguyen Tri Phuong Bridge to Vo Van Kiet Boulevard in District 1.
The third branch will connect the first branch with Nguyen Tri Phuong Bridge, spanning Tau Hu Canal to join in Ba Dinh Street. Once being built, it will combine with Nguyen Tri Phuong Bridge to create four lanes for vehicles to travel from District 5 to District 8 and vice versa.
Besides the three main branches, the project comprises auxiliary items such as lightning system and trees.
The ceremony was attended by Secretary of the HCMC Party Committee Dinh La Thang, standing deputy secretary Tat Thanh Cang, deputy chairman of the city People's Committee Le Van Khoa and agency leaders.
Stating at the event, deputy chairman Le Van Khoa said that the new bridge aims to reduce traffic jam in the area.
He supposed the Department of Transport to soon expand bridges Kenh Te and Chu Y (Te Canal and Y Shape) and rebuild Nhi Thien Duong 1 Bridge, prompting the People's Committee of District 8 to broaden Ba Dinh Street and reorganize traffic at Chanh Hung-Hung Phu crossroads.


text:
UNICEF is the United Nations (UN) agency that aims to realize the rights of children across the world. It operates at all levels, to influence decision-makers, and the variety of partners at grassroots level to turn the most innovative ideas into reality. Natascha Paddison works with the organization in the conflict-torn country of Sri Lanka.
UNICEF is supporting a range of activities to alleviate the psychosocial impact of conflict on children. Natascha's role is to coordinate and direct activities within the country, overseeing seven field offices, six of which are deep in the conflict-affected areas. "We've got animators and young people working together with these children and teaching them about mine awareness, but also doing theater and just play activities," said Natascha. She was formerly Head of the UNICEF Sub-office in Serbia and Montenegro.
The impact violence has on children and families is huge. It affects levels of malnutrition, reduces access to education and adequate water and sanitation facilities, and raises recruitment of child soldiers. The ongoing conflict comes on top of family disruption caused by the tsunami of December 2005. Natascha said, "Some of these were first displaced by the tsunami and then managed to go back to their homes – had hopes as homes and schools and health centers were being rebuilt again. And then as the conflict escalated, they had to flee again."
Natascha will continue her efforts in Sri Lanka in the future, but says that the factor that would make a real difference to them is out of the hands of UNICEF. "We asked the children: What is your hope for the future? In other parts of the country, they said they wanted to be a train driver or a doctor. But in the conflict-affected areas, they never talked about what they wanted to be but only said they wanted peace. They all said they wanted the shelling to stop," she asserted.


text:
GATE Answer Key 2019: Candidates who will appear in the GATE Exam, will search for the answer key. This time IIT Madras is organizing the examination which is scheduled to be held on 2nd & 3rd; 9th & 10th February 2019. The application form was released on 1st September 2018 for the interested and eligible candidates. The answer key will contain the correct answers to all the questions that shall be asked in the examination. With the help of answer key, candidates shall be able to predict their marks in the examination.
GATE Answer Key 2019 @ gate.iitm.ac.in
The conducting body will release the official answer key after a few days of the completion of the examination. Some other coaching institutes will release the unofficial answer key on the same day. For the time being, you can use the unofficial answer key to check your answers. The answer key of GATE 2019 will be released online at gate.iitm.ac.in. However, we will update the link of the official answer key here @ recruitmentforms.in. Using the GATE Answer Key, you can also guess you rank in the examination.
Important Dates of GATE 2019
|Application form release date
|Phase – I Application Submission last date
|Phase – II Application Submission last date
|GATE Admit Card release date
|Exam Date
|2nd & 3rd and 9th & 10th Feb. 2019
|Result declare date
Steps to Download GATE 2019 Answer Key
This section comprises the process to access the answer key online. By following the instructions, available in this section you can download the answer key conveniently. Many candidates search for the answer key link here and there just because they don't know about the official link. To help them out, we will update the direct link to download the key. Read the step by step method to access the GATE Answer Key 2019 below.
- Click on the link – gate.iitm.ac.in
- Then the page to download GATE Answer Key 2019 will open in a new window.
- After that select your branch and set of question paper to download the answer key.
- Further, click on the download button and wait until the file downloads successfully.
- Then open the file and match your answers with official GATE Answer Key.
How to Use Official GATE Answer Key
After downloading the answer key, you shall be able to check correct as well as the incorrect response. Candidates should check the website regularly so that they do not miss any update. The steps to make use of the answer key is available here. Follow the procedure available below in order to calculate your marks in the examination.
- Use the link and download the answer key.
- Then open the file and make the count of correct as well as incorrect response.
- After that follow the official marking scheme to calculate the total marks.
- This is how you will get to know about your marks in the GATE 2019.
We will provide the answer key link here @ recruitmentforms.in when it shall be available. Till the time keep checking this page to get the regular updates on GATE Answer Key 2019


text:
1204 East Maple Rd
Troy, Michigan 48083
Phone: 877-519-4639
For over 45 years companies in various industries all over the world have trusted us to bring a high level of innovation to their processes. Motion Index Drives has always been dedicated to customizing and engineering equipment to meet our customer's application needs. We have patented NANO Indexer Technology, producing the world's most accurate barrel cam indexers, produced a MEDEX, or clean room ready line of products and we can modify applications to be completely sealed in order to eliminate any intrusions while manufacturing in harsh environments. Motion Index Drives has been chosen as a single source on many projects due to the unmatched reliability and flawless operation. We design every product we make with special attention to safety, quality, versatility and value to ensure longevity and worry-free operation for many years to come.
Motion Index Drives has built the most robust and reliable rotary indexers available. We offer a wide range of fixed and programmable indexing devices from Rotary Index Tables, Pick and Place Units, Trunnion Index Drives, Right Angle and Parallel Index Drives.
Our Robotic welding positioners are offered in a complete trunnion solution, utilizing our high capacity "zero backlash" TMF rotary turntable for the 180° exchange which creates accuracies of 9 arc seconds and repeatability of 2-3 arc seconds.
Motion Index Drives offers a wide range of indexed Linear Transfer Systems utilizing cam-driven devices and servo motors for 100% flexibility, from Robot Transfer Units, Tool Tray Transfers Lift and Precision Link Conveyors.
Since 1970, we have perfected the automation process through engineering high precision rotary index tables and precision indexing machines. Our fixed and flexible indexers have operated in various industries; sometimes running 15 years or more, without having one minute of downtime resulting from any type of failure from our equipment. Developments in standard and custom engineered indexing technology continues to lead us to growth in many different industries and products. Our company has grown to include not only rotary index tables but also precision link conveyors, linear transfer systems, weld positioners, custom built weldments and complementary components.


text:
The Middle (S09E22) "Split Decision"
The Middle's penultimate episode starts where it ended last week. Frankie overhears Axl and Mike talking about the job offer Axl got in Denver. Frankie gets mad at Mike for keeping this a secret for two weeks and tries to do everything she can to get Axl to stay in Orson.
But Frankie is not the only depressed person in the house. Sue is also having a very hard time because Sean is almost leaving for Ghana. Both Sue and Sean are still not comfortable sharing their feelings for each other.
But let's first dive into the smallest storyline of this episode. After 9 years of dedicated service, Brick's lawn chair breaks. He decides to order a new one on the internet, but ends up with about 20 of them. Nobody is as excited about the chairs as Brick, but Frankie makes him take the chairs to Grandpa Big Mike. As expected though, Brick eventually picks up something even bigger at Big Mike's: a big recliner.
That's what we call a charitable amount of chairs. #TheMiddle pic.twitter.com/MBRIpcauM7
— The Middle (@TheMiddle_ABC) May 16, 2018
Axl is still trying to figure out what he should do while Frankie is still trying to persuade him to decline the job. However, with Sue depressed about Sean, Brick invested in his new chairs and Mike who just wants Axl to do what's best for him, Frankie isn't getting much help from her family. Even Lexie can't get Axl to stay and decides to support Axl in whatever choice he makes.
Meanwhile, Mike takes Axl to the hardware store, the most underrated place to clear your head, to ask him if he's already made a decision. Axl still has no idea what to do, so Mike tells him how he feels about it. "If you go, I'm gonna miss the hell out of you. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't do what's right for you".
After a few days of laying on the couch depressed, Mike takes Sue to the hardware store as well. He asks Sue what's going on and after it gets clear it's all about Sean, Mike wonders why the happiest person he knows would let a guy bring her down like this. Sue agrees and decides that she's done being sad about Sean. To really move on, she drops the snow globe off at the Donahues, for Sean to take to Ghana.
We have a feeling this isn't snow big deal. 😉❄ #TheMiddle pic.twitter.com/TWncNYVHP2
— The Middle (@TheMiddle_ABC) May 16, 2018
The episode ends with Axl finally deciding about his future. He tells Mike and Frankie that he's taking the job and will be moving to Denver…
This last episode before the big series finale is a great setup to wrap up The Middle next week. Bringing back Brick's lawn chair that was introduced 9 years ago was a nice and hilarious touch. I love how much thought and excitement Brick puts into these small, unimportant things and it was very funny to see him surrounded by lawn chairs in the living room. Brick always seems to be able to find happiness, even when everybody around him is miserable.
The big winner of this episode though was Mike. Compared to Frankie, who was being pretty selfish wanting Axl to stay, I really love how cool Mike was about Axl's job offer. His scenes with both Axl and Sue at the hardware store were really fantastic.
As people who've read my reviews before know, I'm not a big fan of Sue and Sean ending up together. And dragging out their story for an entire season makes it even worse. However, I do somehow feel that the writers have now set up this plot in a way that will make it all worth it. I would've preferred it if they would have gotten together in this episode, but it seems like it will all make sense in the end.
I'm really liking this direction Axl is going. I think it will be a nice way to end the series by showing how much he's grown by sending him off to Denver. If you compare Axl, the annoying teenager from 9 years ago, to the Axl we see now you can see how different he is and how much more serious he has gotten. I think it's nice that he can move up like this with his new job in Denver.
I am really excited to see the series finale because I can't wait to see how all storylines will wrap up. Then again, I will seriously be a wreck when it eventually ends.
The countdown to the final episode of The Middle has officially begun. Who am I kidding, it already started when ABC announced this would be the show's final season. Be sure to tune in to The Middle's hour-long series finale Tuesday May 22nd, 8:30/7:30c on ABC!
I dare you not to cry.
Out here in #TheMiddle, these nine years of memories could not have been more special. 💚 pic.twitter.com/8afCYB2DC0
— The Middle (@TheMiddle_ABC) May 12, 2018


text:
Two years since husband's diagnosis
Discussion Board › Forums › Survivor Stories › Two years since husband's diagnosis
- This topic has 5 replies, 5 voices, and was last updated 2 years, 11 months ago by debnorcal.
November 29, 2017 at 11:08 pm #96168debnorcalModerator
I was also happy to read of Steve's second anniversary of surviving with CC. His success is remarkable and so very encouraging to others. Thanks so much for posting. I look forward to reading more of Steve's blog entries, as well as many more anniversary postings!
debbieNovember 29, 2017 at 11:46 am #96167gavinModerator
Hi Teresa,
Thanks loads for sharing that news about Steve with all of us, and for his blog as well. And I do hope that Steve will continue to keep on writing that blog for a long time as I know that stories like his do help and inspire others as well, so keep on writing it. And posting here as well!
From what you have said, it does indeed sound like Steve is living life to the full and that is great to hear! No doubt there will have been a lot of hard times along the way as you say but he sounds like he is such a fighter with a great team around him and long may his fighting spirit continue. Keep on kicking that CC butt!
My best to you and Steve,
GavinNovember 28, 2017 at 9:15 pm #96160teresamarydeParticipant
Mary and Catherine:
Thank you both for your kind words and support. I am glad that you like Steve's blog. I, of course am biased but I do think that he is a gifted writer. The survival stories on this board have inspired us for the past two years and we are glad if in some small way by sharing Steve's story we can help others.
Best wishes,
TeresaNovember 28, 2017 at 3:52 am #96154middlesister1Moderator
Thank you for sharing such a special milestone and Steve's blog. I just read the few most recent posts, and they showed how Steve is not just surviving, but truly living with CC.
Best wishes to the both of you for continued success,
CatherineNovember 27, 2017 at 9:20 pm #96151bglassModerator
Thank you for sharing this update – and the happy news of your husband's two year anniversary. An uplifting milestone and testament to both of your determination to push for good care and to keep moving forward. Your story will bring much hope to many on the discussion board. Chemotherapy is a tough road, but as you describe, it can bring substantial benefit.
I am a fan of your husband's blog and encourage board readers to check out the link.
Regards, MaryNovember 27, 2017 at 8:00 pm #96150teresamarydeParticipant
I haven't posted much on the discussion boards but I do read them regularly and greatly appreciate the wealth of information and the wonderful community you all provide.
This past weekend marked the two year anniversary of my husband's diagnosis and I wanted to take this opportunity to share with you an update.
Two years ago, my husband Steve received his diagnosis: stage 4, inoperable, intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Steve has been on palliative chemo since December 2015 and I am pleased to share that he is doing well and while he has active cancer in his body, he is strong and living an active and fulfilling life. He has been on 4 different chemo regimens and there have been some hard times but thankfully, overall he is doing well tonight, on the 2nd anniversary of his diagnosis. There are many things that we have learned over the past two years living with this cancer. His medical team at MSKCC has been amazing in their care and treatment. We pay careful attention to his diet, eating fresh and organic food when possible and protein shakes daily. He exercises regularly with long walks 4-5 days/week. We value every day as a gift and try to live each day to its fullest potential. Steve is writing about his experience on his blog: https://nowwithouthesitation.blogspot.com/, which provides, in his own words, a lot more details on his treatments and experiences living with Cholangiocarcinoma.
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.


text:
Please note:
Face coverings are mandatory while indoors, at certain outdoor animal viewing areas and if you are unable to keep 6 ft distance between you and other guests.
Tickets Must Be Pre-Booked
Become a Member
Plan Your Visit
Save with CityPASS
Gift Shops
Places to Stay
School Visits
Things to Do
NEW Walking Routes
Family Expeditionz
Zoo Tour
Zoo to you
Terra Lumina
Animal Experiences
Events & Programs
Wild For Life Podcast
Animals & Plants
Canadian Domain
Discovery Zone
Eurasia Wilds
Tundra Trek
Saving Wildlife &
Wild Spaces
Wildlife Conservancy
Adopt an Animal
Fighting Extinction
Become a Volunteer
Zoo Events & Programs
Zoo Birthday Parties
Host Your Own Event
Location at the Zoo:
Region: Americas
Purple gallinule
The male and female are similarly built and coloured; a pale blue frontal shield with a thick bill, coloured red with a yellow tip. Head, neck and under parts are a brilliant bluish purple, almost iridescent. The back and wings are a bronze green with white tail coverts. The legs with exceptionally long toes are bright yellow. The female is smaller. Males weigh 203 - 305 g where as females weigh 141 – 291 g. They have a length of 27 - 36 cm and a wingspan of 50 - 55 cm.
Conservation Status: IUCN
Found in the South Atlantic and Gulf states of the USA, as far north as Maine, New York and Wisconsin and further south to the West Indies, Central America into north South America i.e. Brazil.
They inhabit the coastal fringes of their territory in both the USA and in the subtropical and tropical areas, in lush wetlands, grass covered marshes, overgrown swamps, ponds, and slow moving channels of water and ditches.
Predominantly plant material including pondweed, sedges, willows, water lilies, grass seeds, water hyacinth, and where available cultivated rice seeds. In addition, they eat insects such as grasshoppers, beetles, water bugs, bees, and wasps as well as worms, mollusks, spiders, frogs, and eggs of herons and jacanas.
In North America, they breed from May to August whereas, in Central and South America and the West Indies, this period is extended from March to November. The purple gallinule is monogamous and very territorial during the breeding season. Both male and female build a bulky nest from available plant material on mats of floating vegetation which may be water hyacinth, alligator weed, cut grass, or wild rice. The nest measures 28 cm across and often has a canopy for the protection of the young birds and a ramp for easy access. The number of eggs average six to seven. They are cream to buff coloured spotted with brown or a pale purple. Incubation takes 18 to 20 days. The parents feed them for about a week, after that, they feed themselves. The chicks are a buff-brown colour with an olive back, greenish wings, a dark brown forehead and a dark olive bill. Their legs and feet are a dull olive colour. The all white under tail coverts is conspicuous in all ages. They are capable of flight in five to seven weeks.
The purple gallinule walks across floating vegetation to feed, turning over lily pads to find food underneath. This bird swims and dives easily but stays away from open water in fear of predators. They climb without difficulty into bushes and trees quite high off the ground and have an affinity for rice fields. They are opportunistic feeders raiding cultivated gardens and picking up food discarded by humans.
Threats to Survival:
Although there are no exact statistics as to the number of purple gallinules in existence, they are not considered threatened. However, since these birds are totally dependant on wetlands, the continuing destruction of these habitats will eventually affect the future of these birds.


text:
All the magical wallop of the original, half the size!!!
All the same colors of the original Angry Cauldron poppets only about half the size!!! Poppets generally measure about 3.5 wide x 4.5-5 inches tall. Excellent for hiding in a target's home, carrying around in a purse or satchel, or for those just looking for something smaller or more manageable.
Dark Arts Poppet (Black)
Rags to Riches Poppet (Green)
Safe and Sound Protection Poppet (White)
Get Lucky Lust Poppet (Red)
Sticks and Stones and Broken Bones Mended Health Poppet (Dark Blue)
Loves Eternal Poppet (Pink)
Invincible Power Poppet (Purple)
The Golden Rule Lucky Life Poppet (Golden Yellow)
Everything and the Kitchen Sink Attraction Poppet (Orange)
Soothing Minds Peace and Tranquility Poppet (Light Blue)


text:
- Mac
- System Tools
- CD & DVD Software
- EarthSoft DVD Copy
EarthSoft DVD Copy
EarthSoft DVD Copy 1.0 for Mac can be downloaded from our website for free. The bundle identifier for EarthSoft DVD Copy for Mac is com.yourcompany.EarthSoft_DVD_Copy. The program lies within System Tools, more precisely CD & DVD Software. The most popular version of the program is 1.0. EarthSoft-DVD-Copy.zip is the most common filename for this app's installer. The actual developer of this software for Mac is EarthSoft, Inc.
From the developer:
EarthSoft DVD Copy offers a simple way to copy a DVD on Mac OS. It helps you backup DVD (DVD-9 and DVD-5) to common blank DVDs. It can copy DVD-9 to DVD-9, DVD-5 to DVD-5, and compress DVD-9 to DVD-5. The DVDs created can be played on DVD players or computers.
You may want to check out more software for Mac, such as 4Easysoft DVD Copier for Mac, AnyMP4 DVD Copy for Mac or VidOn DVD Copy, which might be similar to EarthSoft DVD Copy.
Please add a comment explaining the reasoning behind your vote.
Editors & Converters


text:
Click here for changes to shop hours due to COVID-19 precautions. Delivery & shipping options are available.
South Park - 3009 Grape St. San Diego, CA 92104
Solana Beach - 142 S Cedros Ave. Solana Beach, CA 92075
Get directions!
Contact us for private group workshops and events!
Dried blooms in a variety of height options. Dried flowers come in shades of pink, peach, and tan, and all vary slightly. These everlasting arrangements look great in a cluster or on their own. Sold individually.
Dried Flower Wrap
Regular price
Dried Flower Arrangement - Ceramic Bud Vase
Regular price
DIY - Dried Flower Crown Kit
Regular price
Your input is very much appreciated. Share it with your friends so they can enjoy it too!
This item came quickly, was packaged safely, and my arrangement is perfect. I will order again!
It's so cute and dainty. I love the little vase it comes in too


text:
Avengers: Infinity War is now just three weeks from its release, so we're finally in the home stretch of waiting for the Marvel Cinematic Universe event that every other Marvel Cinematic Universe event has been building to. Very, very soon, many of the mysteries surrounding the film will at long last be solved by the very act of watching it...but that doesn't means fans are going to stop coming up with their own theories in the meantime.
As we've covered before here on SYFY WIRE, a massive number of Infinity War fan theories are floating around out there, musing on everything from the ultimate fates of characters to new MCU revelations to, of course, the location of the final of the six Infinity Stones: The Soul Stone. Every other stone in the MCU has been revealed at this point, and we know roughly where each one is located. The Soul Stone, however, remains a mystery, and fans have been trying to pin its location down for months, even going as far as to ask MCU creators if their guess is correct.
This week, one such fan reached out to Guardians of the Galaxy writer/director, and Infinity War executive producer, James Gunn, to ask if their fan theory about the stone linking it to Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 was correct. Here's the theory, and Gunn's answer.
"HIM" in this instance, is Adam Warlock, the powerful cosmic character originally simply called "Him" in the pages of Marvel Comics. Originally created by the scientists of the Enclave in an endeavor to craft a perfect human, Adam Warlock ultimately became a wielder of the Soul Gem (in the comics, they're gems instead of stones), and then became trapped within it (long story). During the Inifinity Gauntlet miniseries, he was resurrected, and played a key role in defeating Thanos, including at one point wielding the Gauntlet himself. In a Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 coda scene, he's introduced as a being gestating in a cocoon, created by High Priestess Ayesha to be the next step in the evolution of the golden Sovereign race. The combination of his major role in The Infinity Gauntlet and his teased introduction in Vol. 2 have led many fans to believe he's a secret major player in Infinity War.
Alas, all signs point to this not being true, at least for now. In addition to shooting down this very direct fan theory, Gunn has said in the past that Adam will not appear in Infinity War or its sequel. In fact, he might not even appear in the forthcoming Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 if the timing doesn't feel right, as Gunn said in a fan Q&A back in November. Plus, Infinity War is already absolutely packed with characters and locations. This is an Avengers movie, so massive scale is a given, but even with that in mind it seems hard to believe the film has the time to explain Adam Warlock to everyone (even the Guardians don't know about him yet), give him his birth scene, throw him into the fray and oh by the way explain how and why he happens to hold the Soul Stone. The stone's location is a mystery for a reason, but that doesn't seem like the answer.
So, if that theory bites the dust, then where is the Soul Stone? There are still plenty of theories out there (Wakanda, still lost in space, etc.), including one that it might not even show up in Infinity War at all. This is one mystery that might take two movies to solve.
Avengers: Infinity War is in theaters April 27.


text:
Custom Electronic Hearing Protection Multi-Pursuit CustomShield
$2,199.00 / Pair Why the price?
TETRA devices use a similar chip and digital noise reduction that you would pay $5,000 for in hearing aids. TETRA devices give you a premium hearing experience, but feel like wearing nothing at all.
Advanced hearing enhancement and protection devices optimized for deer, elk, turkey, waterfowl, upland and everyday listening. Custom molded for the most personalized fit possible, with rechargeable option.
For years, manufacturers have expected hunters to take a "one-device-fits-all" approach to hearing protection. As hunters ourselves, we know that doesn't work. The sounds we need to hear on the range or in a duck blind are completely different from those in the turkey woods or deer stand. No two hunts are alike, and your hearing protection shouldn't be, either. Whether your passion is calling in mallards, flushing upland birds, smashing clay targets, running and gunning a big 'ol tom, or waiting patiently for a trophy buck, TETRA is dedicated to protecting your hearing, while helping you "Hear The Hunt."
At TETRA, we used our patent-pending Specialized Target Optimization™ (STO) to isolate and enhance the exact frequencies hunters need to hear for a variety of pursuits: deer, elk, turkey, waterfowl, range, and upland. We took those frequencies and created custom programs to enhance the sounds you most need/want to hear - like duck calls, gobbles, and voices - and protect you from those you don't. Now, with our multi-pursuit device, you can get all the custom programming in one convenient device. Changing between programs is as easy as one simple tap. Our CustomShield devices and custom molded for the most personalized fit possible, and have a rechargeable option.
TETRA isn't just hearing protection, it's hearing perfection.
Easy to use:
- Extremely comfortable to wear all day
- Change programs with the push of a button
- Adjustable volume control wheel
- Battery operated
- Multi-Pursuit CustomShield right and left
- 6 hunting pursuit programs (deer, elk, turkey, waterfowl, range, and upland)
- Waterproof carrying case
- Charging case (included with rechargeable devices)
- Pack of size 13 batteries (included with replaceable battery devices)
- Cleaning tool
- 2 smaller pocket-sized soft cases
- Detachable lanyard
Our Technology
Specialized Target Optimization
Tetra CustomShield Multi-Pursuit
6 Pursuit-based programs in one device
TETRA products instantly shut down and instantly recover for sudden loud noises, like gunshots, providing the wearer full protection at the very moment it's needed. For more sustained loud inputs, like loud calling, AlphaShield Compression™ limits the overall output to a safe level, then returns to normal amplification once the loud input has stopped. Never miss a sound you want to hear, and protect your hearing for life.
ClearComm™ is our proprietary algorithm that accentuates human speech while minimizing noises and distractions that occur outside of the frequency range of human voices. ClearComm is useful for better understanding speech and whispers of hunting partners, hearing speech on the range, as well as in other daily activities that require better hearing.
Compare Models
|Rechargeable Option
|AlphaShield Compression
|Specialized Target Optimization
|Personalized Hearing Program
|Voice Prompts
|Wind Noise Cancellation
|ClearComm Program
|Digital Signal Processing (DSP)
12 Channel
16 Channel
16 Channel
|Noise Reduction
|Feedback Cancellation
|Unique Pursuit Programs
Hearing and the Brain
Research at Johns Hopkins University suggests that more hearing loss increases the risk of dementia. In one study, people with hearing loss were 24% more likely to have Alzheimer's.*
With hearing loss, our brains have to work much harder to make sense of what is being said, and even harder to filter out speech from unwanted background noise. Simply trying to understand conversations requires more mental energy and concentration.
If basic conversations take up most of our mental energy, there is less opportunity for our brains to sort out and store other information.
At TETRA, our goal is to minimize hearing loss for hunters and shooters, because research shows if we reduce hearing loss, we can also reduce the chance of getting dementia and Alzheimer's.
*Source: Lin, F. et al. (2011), Hearing loss and incident dementia. Arch Neurol, 68(2):214-220.
30 Day Guarantee
You'll love your new TETRA devices or you'll get your money back. Try them for 30 days, risk free.
Customer Reviews
Purchased multipursuit and it worked as advertised.Only one time out but hearing was great with no whistling from wind
I just received them so I can't comment on anything other than that you should improve your shipping. Twenty one days is not very good service.


text:
Washington State Ski Resorts may be one of the better-kept secrets in the skiing industry. While many folks chase Aspen and skiing in Colorado, Washington State Ski Resorts share the same topography as their cousins across the border in beautiful BC. That means skiers/snowboarding junkies in Seattle don't have to make the four-ish hour drive to Whistler Blackcomb to get their fix of epic powder.
In fact, each of these Washington State Ski Resorts is within 150 miles of Seattle – less than a 3 hour drive for many powder hounds in the Emerald City. If you're looking to hit the slopes in the Evergreen State, these ski resorts are keepers, and would give many an Aspen hill a good run for the money.
Washington State Ski Resorts Within 150 Miles of Seattle
1 – Crystal Mountain Ski Resort
At the base of Mt Rainier, Crystal Mountain is one of the better-known Washington State Ski Resorts. There's a good reason for that – Crystal Mountain packs over 2,600 skiable acres with 10 chair lifts and an 8 person gondola in a package wrapped up with a bowtie and some of the best views of Mt Rainier you'll ever see. It's also the biggest ski resort in the state. Just a two hour drive from Seattle and Bellevue, Crystal Mountain is a good one.
Distance From Seattle: 83 Miles
Official Website: www.crystalmountainresort.com
2 – Mt Baker Ski Area
OK, we're getting a little far from Seattle here. But with an average 600 inches of snow each season, you can't ignore Mt Baker Ski Area. Size counts in many places, and snowfall is one of them when you're a Washington State Ski Resort. Think powder days, folks, with roughly 150 skiable days each year on 1000 acres and runs for skiers of pretty much any skill level. About an hour north of Bellingham, and within spitting distance of British Columbia, Mt Baker is up there with the best ski resorts this side of the Rockies.
Bonus Points: I can see Mt Baker from where I'm writing this in Victoria BC. I know you totally care about that.
Distance From Seattle: 132 Miles
Official Website: www.mtbaker.us
3 – The Summit At Snoqualmie
Can't say I can see The Summit at Snoqualmie from the comfort of my housecoat and slippers, but we'll let that slide when talking about the best Washington State Ski Resorts. With four resorts under 'The Summit' banner (which includes Summit East, Summit Central and Summit West), this is the closest ski resort to Seattle. It's also a good one, located within the Mt Baker/Snoqualmie National Forest area that packs stunning winter terrain and almost 2000 skiable acres. It's also got 50 KM of groomed Nordic ski trails leading out of the resort.
If The Summit and Mt Baker had an arm wrestle, the latter would win thanks to all that powder, but The Summit's close distance to Seattle would help it seal the rematch.
Distance From Seattle: 52 Miles
Official Website: www.summitatsnoqualmie.com
4 – Stevens Pass
We can't talk about Washington State Ski Resorts near Seattle without Stevens Pass. Well, we could, but that would suck – Stevens Pass spans three sides of two different mountains good for 1,200 skiable acres and an average 450 inches of snowfall each winter. Can you say P-O-W-D-E-R? That and 10 high-speed chairlifts, a wide variety of ski runs for each skill level and excellent dining options should put Stevens Pass on your radar. Now stir in a little night skiing nearly each day of the week and you can see why Stevens Pass is one of the better Washington State Ski Resorts.
Distance From Seattle: 82 Miles
Official Website: www.stevenspass.com
5 – White Pass Ski Area
We've already talked about one ski resort near Mt Rainier. Here's the other – White Pass Ski Area is within 25 miles of Rainier's peak and just 50 miles from Yakima. There's a whole lot going on at White Pass, starting with 1,500 skiable acres served by six chair lifts and two rope tows. Ever heard of Winter Carnival? That's held here at White Pass and the often family-oriented winter parties that follow. Whether you ski or party, there's a little something at White Pass for everyone who wants to put a little chill in their winter.
Distance From Seattle: 112 Miles
Official Website: www.skiwhitepass.com


text:
Dieting and weight loss has to be one of the most difficult things that most people will ever. Just knowing you are going to eat less calories during the day makes most people nervous and often times even makes them hungrier. A sad fact is that when you tell someone that they cannot have something it will make them want it even more. So here in this article I am going to present a few mental tips that will make your weight loss that much easier.
Tip Number One
One of the problems with dieting is that most people look at and focus on everything that they cannot eat. Instead of doing this you should be looking at and thinking all the good and tasty food that you will be eating throughout the day. It's almost like looking at a glass as half full as opposed to half empty.
Tip Number Two
In order to make your diet work you need to eat a large variety of healthy foods. Each meal that you eat should contain a leading source of protein, lots of vegetables and even a little bit of a healthy fat. Make sure that you are eating foods that you enjoy.
Tip Number Three
Set realistic goals. Most people doom themselves from the start by setting a goal like losing 30 pounds in 30 days. It would be much healthier both mentally and physically if you accept the fact that is best for you to lose weight in small increments. Realistically most people are able to lose approximately 1 to 2 pounds a week without much difficulty. Setting this as your goal and as your expectation can often times make the difference between success and failure.
Tip Number Four
Try to perform some type of cardiovascular activity each and every day. Be sure to choose activities that you enjoy. Personally I enjoyed bike riding. So the majority of my cardio exercise consists of either bike riding outside or riding a stationary bike inside the house while watching my favorite television show.
Tip Number Five
When you were doing your cardiovascular exercise make sure that you were working at and intensity level that will burn fat. For the majority of people this would be at 60 to 65% of your maximum heart rate.
So there you have it five quick tips to keep your weight loss goals.


text:
Dear President Trump,
Reading some of your tweets (btw: it will never be ok with me that you are ruling/governing via Twitter) over the weekend blasting the Mueller investigation, McCabe, and Comey I realized I forgot an important angle in the takedown of a democracy. In addition to having damaging goods on your allies you also need to give them pacifiers to keep them quiet. Pass things like major tax cuts for them and their donors, pack the judiciary with ill-trained, malleable conservatives, dismantle consumer and environmental protections through executive orders, and play the hard-ass line on immigration and you will have them in your pocket, especially if they know you can cut them off at the knees if they balk at towing the line. Not only do they get to feel like they died and went to their own version of "it's all mine!" heaven, but they get cover in that they can tell their owners (aka donors) and the half of their constituents they care about that you all are getting things done for them. This way they don't have to think every minute of every day about how they must not cross you or some choice kompromat might just leak out about them.
So there's all that for us to stay on top of too.
This next bit may seem like an unrelated pivot, but it isn't. In church our worship services follow a set structure where most of the year we start with a prayer of confession. Yesterday we focused on how our fears and prejudices run deep and influence virtually everything thing we do, including how we think and feel about ourselves and others, whose pain and suffering we see, who we are apt to blame for their troubles, and who we are apt to stand with or distance ourselves from. We closed the confession with a plea to God (or in my case to the human family) to open our eyes and ears and hearts to everyone, including ourselves. Following a moment of silence we then turn to an assurance of reconciliation and this is really the central message I want to share with you today. The quote is from Adrienne Maree Brown who is a writer, scholar, and activist; "Things are not getting worse. They are getting uncovered. We must hold each other tight and continue to pull back the veil." Yes. Thank you, Adrienne Maree. And thank you, Donald, for motivating so many more of us to pull back the veils, to bear witness, and record what is happening.
May we keep each other safe.
May we cheer each other up.
May we nurse each other back to health.
May we teach one another peace.
Tracy Simpson


text:
Abstract library
5 results for "Pschowski".
#1077 Signs of Carcinoid Heart Disease on Staging CT: Which Predictors are Helpful?
Introduction: In patients with functionally active neueroendocrine neoplasms (NEN) carcinoid heart disease presenting primarily with tricuspid valve regurgitation (TR) is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis is crucial to improve prognosis.
Conference: 12th Annual ENETS Conference 2015 (2015)
Category: Imaging (radiology, nuclear medicine, endoscopy)
Presenting Author: Dr. med. Alexander Baur
Authors: Baur A, Kunz F, Pschowski R, Röpke T, ...
Keywords: computed tomography, staging, carcinoid heart disease
#1138 Staged Percutaneous Treatment of Severe Carcinoid Heart Disease by Transfemoral Pulmonary Valve Replacement and Novel Vena Cava Valve Implantation
Introduction: Carcinoid heart disease with severe valve destruction represents the major cause of high morbidity and mortality in patients with carcinoid syndrome.
Conference: 12th Annual ENETS Conference 2015 (2015)
Category: Clinical cases/reports
Presenting Author: Dr René Pschowski
Authors: Pschowski R, Laule M, Baur A, Pape U F, ...
Keywords: Carcinoid heart disease, percutaneous
#1151 Gastric Neuroendocrine Neoplasias-Outcome Predictors-ENETS Staging and Grading System and Treatment
Introduction: Detailed analysis to guide management decisions in gNEN is rare.
Conference: 12th Annual ENETS Conference 2015 (2015)
Category: Epidemiology/Natural history/Prognosis - Prognosis
Presenting Author: M.A. Stephan Felder
Keywords: nen stomach grading tnm outcome surgery
#1436 Up-Regulation of the Immunoregulatory Enzyme Indoleamine-2,3-Dioxygenase (IDO) with Consecutive Tryptophan Depletion Predicts Death in Patients with Neuroendocrine Neoplasia
Introduction: Data from a considerable number of malignancies demonstrate that depletion of the essential amino acid tryptophan via induction of the immuno-regulatory enzyme Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) serves as an important tumour escape strategy and is of prognostical importance.
Conference: 13th Annual ENETS conference 2016 (2016)
Category: Biomarkers
Presenting Author: Dr René Pschowski
Authors: Pschowski R, Pape U F, Fusch G, Jann H, ...
Keywords: IDO-1, inflammation, tryptophan catabolites, predictor, biomarker
#2289 Tumor Necrosis Factor-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand (TRAIL) Receptor Expression in Patients with Neuroendocrine Neoplasia
Introduction: Targeting the death receptor pathway of apoptosis represents a promising approach for the development of novel cancer therapeutics. TNF-related TRAIL induces apoptosis upon binding to TRAIL receptors 1 and 2 (TRAIL-R1/DR4 and TRAIL-R2/DR5). TRAIL-R3 (DcR1) and TRAIL-R4 (DcR2) have been reported to block TRAIL-mediated apoptosis upon overexpression. Specially agonists for the apoptosis-inducing TRAIL-R1 and TRAIL-R2 are currently tested in clinical trials.
Conference: 15th Annual ENETS conference 2018 (2018)
Category: Basic Science - Signaling pathways, receptors, biomarkers
Presenting Author: Dr René Pschowski


text:
No Products in the Cart
AVID's Pulsare established a new benchmark in sound quality that a phono stage can achieve.
'The difference between simply listening to music and experiencing it.'
Pulsus embodies the experience gained during the development of the Pulsare to design this high quality but economically priced phono stage. Many of the Pulsare's features have been retained such as the switchable flexibility and separate power supply.
Again designed from first principles, Pulsus is an un-balanced design, but still keeping noise exceptionally low. Distortion across the audio spectrum is exceptionally very low and with impressive headroom, a character common to all our electronic designs.
Pulsus employs extremely high-specification components for its retail cost. Inputs and outputs are both gold-plated RCA. Gain, resistance and capacitance are all easily adjustable from the underside of the casework and offer exceptional flexibility and ease of use.
A passive RIAA (with Neumann HF correction) circuit using high-end capacitors, helps maintain linearity of reproduction; and an external regulated power supply provides refined smooth power to maintain its poise.
Passionately manufactured within our own facilities, everything from PCB assembly, testing and quality control to the high-quality casework ensures a long lasting reliable product, all at a very affordable price.
: < -81dB MM <-67dB MC
: < 0.001%
: 5Hz - 70kHz +/-0.5dB
: 48dB - 60dB - 70dB
Resistance loading
: 100R - 300R - 500R - 1k - 5k - 10k - 47k
Capacitance loading
: 100pf - 200pf - 500pf
Power supply
: Regulated with 35va transformer
Voltage input
: 100-240vac 50/60Hz 10 watts max. (depending on region)
: 120 x 220 x 70mm (WxDxH)
Net weight
: Control unit - 1.0Kg (2.2lb) PSU - 1.7Kg (4lb)
: 340 x 340 x 130mm (WxDxH)
Shipping weight
: 3.6Kg (8lb)


text:
Could online apps help save indie bookshops? The rise of online retailers and ebooks have had a devastating impact on the UK's independent bookshops.
According to the Booksellers Association, the number of bricks and mortar stores has plummeted over the last 10 years from 1,535 in 2005 to just 939 in 2014. A number of online initiatives are now fighting back to save these physical outlets from further decline. NearSt is one business aiming to help shoppers find their way back to local bookshops with a simple smartphone app. It allows users to tap in the product they want to purchase and then shows nearby stores where it is stocked.
Similar to click and collect, the customer can then place an order and pick it up at that location. "Shopping locally should be easier than shopping online. Live Rural Newfoundland & Labrador. The Great Northern Peninsula has a number of craft producers that are hobbyists, part-time or engaged in the business earning a living full-time.
There is significant opportunity to start and even grow markets in this sector. I recently attended a workshop at 50 Centuries Interpretation Centre, Bird Cove to learn more and provide my own feedback. I was impressed by the array and diversity of craft producers at the session, ranging from two Youth Ventures participant presentations including Sami's Cakes and Jasmine's Nail Designs.
Strategy #2: Small Entrepreneurship. Rural Economic Development Depends on Small Entrepreneurship The most effective and desirable economic development strategy for many rural communities is small entrepreneurship – development based on locally owned and owner operated small businesses.
Often called microenterprise development, small entrepreneurship has been proven to work in the rural areas that have not been successful in attracting manufacturers or other large employers from outside. In Nebraska's farm and ranch counties, over 70 percent of the net job growth is coming from non-farm self-employment, people creating their own jobs. It works because the people in these areas have an entrepreneurial bent. Farm and ranch counties in the nation's mid-section have long had two to three times the rate of self-employment as metropolitan counties.
It has worked in Nebraska in part because of deliberate efforts to cultivate small business development. Small Town Successes Towards Sustainability. Full resource: Defying the Odds: Sustainability In Small Rural Places Date: 2011 Source: The International City/County Management Association Authors: George Homsy and Mildred Warner While many large, American cities have made successful inroads into making their living environments more sustainable, smaller cities and towns have a much harder time due to political, fiscal, technical and jurisdictional challenges.
Unfortunately, this makes smaller and poorer towns less likely to enact sustainability policies. They often lack the resources and expertise, and must rely more heavily on community-driven processes, if to achieve their aims. This briefing paper identifies some of the key barriers which smaller towns face when trying to transition into sustainability, while also providing an overview of strategies which some municipalities have tried to implement.
42_Carter.pdf. Let's Put Our Cities on the Map. Problem loading page. How Bicycles can save small towns. Take a look at this video of how bike travel can revitalize rural areas.
To learn more visit PathLessPedaled.com. Best_practices_report_final.PDF. Nextdoor Plots Holiday Festivities with Cheer Map — Design News. Spotted / Sutter Creek, CA / Sutter Creek Provisions. Say hello the newest kid on the block which opened its doors just a few weeks ago.
This here is Sutter Creek Provisions—a purveyor of fine foods, craft beers, and live musical performances—owned by husband and wife, Darin and Casey Sexton. One side serves as a gourmet market stocking an amazing variety of pantry items, snacks, fresh produce, wine and deli selections; the other includes a stage + bar offering draft and bottled beers, wine and plenty of seating.
With our hotel close by this was a great spot to grab some goodies, and after a day of adventuring, a perfect place to settle into.
Your home for all things Design. Home Tours, DIY Project, City Guides, Shopping Guides, Before & Afters and much more. Design Initiatives in the countryside.publications.naturalengland.org. Tourism benefits to towns. Tourist friendly towns. Stewardship Tourism Can Encourage Rural Visitors To Care, Learn and Connect. Marci Penner at the Kansas Sampler Foundation thinks so.
Her Kansas Explorers Club visit Kansas communities for fun and at the same time help those small Kansas towns keep their grocery stores open and fix up their local attractions. Now Diane Strachan of Positive Futures is stepping up with a Stewardship Travel program in San Luis Obispo County, California that could become a blueprint for similar actions anywhere in the world. Here's the press release announcing the launch of this program: Announcing Stewardship Travel What makes Stewardship Tourism different from Geotourism or Ecotourism These differences make Stewardship Tourism important for small rural communities Geotourism – this term was coined by the National Geographic Society.
There are dozens of geotourism regions now, with National Geographic sponsored websites and maps. Here is a good article that explains in more detail the difference between ecotourism and geotourism. Why should visitors love your town? Count the ways : Community Features. Extension > Community > Community Features > Why should visitors love your town?
Count the ways Author: Mary Vitcenda Content Source: Various sources Winter 2011 Photo: Explore Minnesota Tourism "What do you do for fun around here? " When visitors come to your town, replies to this question can make or break their impression of your community. That means offering things to see and do that are either unique (one of a kind) or extraordinary (other towns might have them, but yours is better). As Hank Todd of Hank Todd Solutions Group in St. The core of assessment is an inventory of existing and potential attractions that might draw tourists to a community. "But don't stop there," warns Cynthia Messer, Extension educator with the University of Minnesota Tourism Center. Community Tourism Development. Extension > Community > Community Tourism Development Tourism Assessment Program The Tourism Assessment Program can help your community open up to new visitors and strengthen your local economy.
When your community conducts a Tourism Assessment Program, a team of community leaders and University faculty members gather and review data to analyze the community's tourism assets and potential for tourism development. The program includes a visit by the team to the community. Small_Town_Tourism_Harshbarger. Developing small town tourism.


text:
A horny bhabhi pussy fucked by her lover in the absence of her husband! A mature sex action is on. This horny indian sex chat bhabhi calls her lover to her home whenever her husband goes out of town. You can have me any way you want, says this horny bhabhi to her lover and her lover removed her dresses one by one. Once she lied naked, he put his dick on her vaginal hole and pushed it deeper. A hot girl fuck action video with her cousin brother is here. She has hairy pussy which she exposed to her naked cousin. His dick stood upright like an iron rod. She took that iron rod inside her cunt and rides it till it cum. The magic of sexual pleasure felt by her for the first time and she was happy to have a relationship with her cousin.
Do you like big beautiful Women? This tamil chat room BBW girlfriend is feeling very horny and strips for her lover to expose her huge boobs and her hairy pussy. The boyfriend rubs her hairy pussy as she moans in pleasure. It would be fun fucking this busty Indian babe in her hairy pussy. Desi indian bhabhi was having an affair with her lover getting fucked by him. She is a horny lady and was not satisfied by her hubby which made her got fucked by other man. This chubby bhabhi got fucked by her lover in her home on her bed where her hubby use to fuck her.
This is Ritika, desi chat bhabhi getting fucked by her lover when her husband went for his work. Her lover with whom she was having affair use to come to her home daily. Sexy indian whore girl nude in the home of her lover. She was a hot babe who knows to please his man very well. You will see her sucking the dick of her lover. Both of them had a nice sex in this video which you will surely like. Watch this desi indian lovers who was having a nice sex in hotel. Her lover had recorded their fucking session and later it got leaked. Getting fucked by her lover in hotel rooms, cheating on her poor husband.
Related Post: Indian Webcam


text:
The management of Baillie Lodges has been extremely active in recent months to increase the luxurious character of its properties even further. Improvements and refurbishments include
Longitude 131° (LONA01)
In May, Baillie Lodges has transformed its luxury desert camp Longitude 131° with the addition of stylish new balconies on each of its 15 'tents', creating contemporary outdoor living areas while enhancing its unrivalled views of Uluru.
Styled with expansive day beds, armchairs and Eco Smart fireplaces, the luxury of Longitude 131° has been extended outdoors, providing guests with a new perspective on the surrounding desert landscape. Central to the new concept is a bespoke luxury swag for two, a modern reinvention of the traditional Australian bushman's bedroll. Unfurled at nightfall in front of the fireplace, it gives guests the option of sleeping beneath a blanket of southern stars while still enjoying the comfort and style of Australia's most celebrated desert retreat.
The new balconies are the latest enhancements by Baillie Lodges since taking over Longitude 131° in late 2013. They follow a multi-million dollar refurbishment that introduced features including designer furnishings, Indigenous artworks and the group's signature "Baillie Bed". Creating a whole new level of intimacy, the luxe outdoor features are designed to remove any barrier between guests and the landscape at Australia's spiritual heart. Revealing a fresh panorama in an environment of relaxed luxury and natural peace, Longitude 131° elevates the outback experience to iconic heights.
Baillie Lodges meanwhile announced the next exciting phase in the renewal of its acclaimed desert retreat at Uluru. Works will commence from April 1, 2017 and the lodge will close until July 31, 2017 inclusive.
The plans include:
• A new premium suite, designed to offer the ultimate in desert luxury and offering dual views of the outback icons. It will be available in a one or two-bedroom configuration, making it ideal for families and friends as well as individuals and couples.
• A major redevelopment of the central Dune House to enhance its space and views while introducing a new contemporary style. Additions include a new entry and reception area cleverly tucked into the dune, a redesigned tented canopy and curvaceous open bar in the spirit of sister lodge, Southern Ocean Lodge.
• A signature spa facility and re-landscaped swimming pool, replete with poolside bar.
• A new dune-top bar and deck offering sweeping views of the surrounding desert landscape – perfect for sunset drinks or dinner under the stars.
Capella Lodge (CAPN01)
In 2017, a whole new level of luxury will be unveiled at Capella Lodge, the subtropical connection in the Baillie Lodges portfolio. Closing for four months between May 1 – August 31, 2017 inclusive, plans at the property include:
• Creation of a new two-bedroom suite suitable for two or up to five persons in style. A reincarnation of the Makambo Loft to feature extended outdoor living areas and a plunge pool with postcard views. The Lagoon Lofts will also be upgraded to include a timber hot tub privately nestled in the kentia palms.
• Redevelopment of the main lodge, including bar, lounge and restaurant upgrades, honouring the relaxed spirit of Lord Howe Island and capturing the breathtaking views of the soaring twin mountain peaks and turquoise lagoon.
• Remodelling of the Capella Spa to include a second level with mesmerising views from the treatment bed to the reef beyond.


text:
National pupil projections: July 2014
National projections for the number of pupils in schools by type of school and age group.
Findings presented here update those published in December 2013 (SFR53/2013 using the latest mid-2012 based population projections from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and latest 2014 School Census data. This is an Official Statistics publication. The statistics are presented as the latest available findings and have been released to help planning, to study trends and to inform a variety of programs and initiatives.
The statistical release, 'School capacity: academic year 2012 to 2013' was published on 14 April 2014 and included local authorities' own forecasts of future pupil numbers, based on local-level information, such as inter-authority migration of pupils. The national pupil projections presented in the current release are produced within the DfE, at a national level only. They are based on the latest national population projections from ONS and cover a longer time period (up to 2023) than the school capacity release. Differences in the methodologies used by individual local authorities for pupil number forecasts mean that the aggregated totals in 'School Capacity: academic year 2012 to 2013' will differ from the national-level projections presented here.
Queries should be directed to: William Teager 020 7783 8448 email@example.com


text:
Ag Pro, Inc., Plaintiff-appellant, v. Bernard A. Sakraida, Defendant-appellee, 536 F.2d 110 (5th Cir. 1976)Annotate this Case
Frank H. Hunter, El Paso, Tex., J. Pierre Kolisch, Portland, Or., for plaintiff-appellant.
J. F. Hulse, Stephen B. Tatem, Jr., El Paso, Tex., for defendant-appellee.
Before BROWN, Chief Judge, GODBOLD and CLARK, Circuit Judges.
This patent infringement lawsuit was filed in 1968 in the Western District of Texas. In 1971, a panel of this court reversed the district court's summary judgment for defendant Sakraida on the ground that material issues of fact were still at issue. See 437 F.2d 99 (5th Cir. 1971). On remand, the district court entered judgment for petitioner on the ground that the patent was invalid for obviousness. See 35 U.S.C. § 103 (1970). This court again reversed, finding the patent valid. See 474 F.2d 167 (5th Cir. 1973). On rehearing, the same panel conditionally adhered to its holding, subject to the result of a hearing on Sakraida's motion under Fed. R. Civ. P. 60(b) (2) to reconsider the issue of patent validity in the light of newly discovered evidence. See 481 F.2d 668 (5th Cir. 1973). The district court granted the motion for new trial; this court again reversed, holding that the "due diligence" standard of Rule 60(b) (2) motions had not been met and reaffirming the panel holdings on patent validity as the law of the case. See 512 F.2d 141 (5th Cir. 1975). The Supreme Court reversed on the issue of patent validity, declaring the patent invalid for obviousness and pretermitting decision of the Rule 60(b) (2) issue, and directed reinstatement of the district court's judgment for Sakraida and ordering Ag Pro to pay the costs of the Supreme Court litigation. See Sakraida v. Ag Pro, Inc., --- U.S. ----, 96 S. Ct. 1532, 47 L. Ed. 2d 784 (1976), and judgment rendered pursuant thereto (June 22, 1976) (awarding costs).
Accordingly, we vacate the judgments of this court and remand the cause to the district court for entry of judgment conforming to the mandate of the Supreme Court and for taxation of costs in conformity with Fed. R. Civ. P. 54(d). Costs of proceedings in this court shall also be taxed in the district court in favor of Bernard A. Sakraida.
VACATED and REMANDED.


text:
King Sunny Ade celebrates turning 70 years old and 50 years of unbeatable art and musicianship. As was expected a befitting celebration was hosted in ...
King Sunny Ade celebrates turning 70 years old and 50 years of unbeatable art and musicianship.
As was expected a befitting celebration was hosted in his honour on Sunday, December 11, 2016 at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos.
The event tagged 'Sunny on Sunday' saw a host of celebrities, Lagos socialites and fans come out to rock with the King. The festivity packed with energy and live music was hosted by comedian Tee-A, actress Funke Akindele and on air personality Lolo1.
Here's a list of seven types of celebrities who were present at the function.
Music icons
Ever wondered what Nigerian music and 'owambes' would sound like if KSA didn't exist? Let's not even image.
To celebrate KSA, music icons like the elegant Onyeka Onwenu, Sir Shina Peters and Awilo who made sure Nigerians knew just how much he loved KSA were present and boy did they bring on a show.
The billionaires
King Sunny Ade is known to perform at high class events and sing special praises for dignitaries at celebrations so it was no surprise that the likes of Femi Otedola, Aliko Dangote and Tunde Folawiyo were there to mark attendance at Sunny On Sunday.
The Government officials and royal fathers
Nigerian government officials were not left from the fun – Governor of Ogun state, Ibikunle Amosun, Nigeria's Minister of Information and Culture Alhaji Lai Mohammed, former Governor of Lagos State Babatunde Raji Fashola, former deputy Governor of Lagos Princess Sarah Adebisi Sosan and several others were spotted in the VIP section.
His royal majesty Oba Saheed Elegushi was also seen seated on the same table as the music king.
The Media Bosses
The big wigs of Nigerian media were also there CEO of Megalectrics Limited Chris Ubosi, and Smooth Promotions CEO Ayo Animashaun were at the event.
The performers
Without a doubt, many Nigerians have come across King Sunny Ade's music and it's all affected them one way or the other. Several Nigerian artistes took to the stage to pay respect to the King with their own renditions of his songs. They include: Darey, Iyanya, Tiwa Savage, Niniola and more.
The Celebs
What's a Lagos party without drinks, small chops and of course our favourite Nigerian celebrities. In attendance: Don Jazzy, Korede Bello, Reekado Banks, Peter of PSquare, Lala Akindoju, Toke Makinwa and more.
KSA loyals
Many KSA fans came in from outside Lagos specially to mark this occasion. There were several groups dressed in varieties of aso-ebi.
Source: King Sunny Ade: 7 types of celebrities at the 'Sunny on Sunday' concert – Celebrities – Pulse


text:
If you're trying to drift bait, always think of the three-way rig (also known as a drift rig). Other rigs fail to present both live and frozen bait in a lifelike manner compared to the three-way. This rig is simple to assemble and even easier to fish, making it the perfect method for drifting over any type of bottom structure. You're probably wondering how you make this trusty drift rig so let's get started.
The best part about fishing a drift rig is that all of the components are fairly cheap, allowing you to buy tackle in bulk. I highly recommend buying more than you need since these rigs boast two treble hooks that easily snag rocks and other bottom structure. Here's what you'll need.
- Three-Way Swivels – I love the Sea Striker brand because they come in bulk and are extremely cheap.
- Snap Swivels – I usually go with the cheap Danielson swivels but if you want high-end ball-bearing swivels that are stronger, go right ahead.
- Size 2-4 Treble Hooks – Depending on the size of bait you are drifting, you'll need trebles between size 2 and 4. Feel free to go bigger or smaller for personal preference but it's what I like to use for drifting whole squid and live baitfish.
- 30-50lb Trilene Big Game Monofilament – This will be for your leader line to the treble hooks. Trilene Big Game gives you a ridiculous amount of line for only around ten bucks. You'll be set for months.
- 20-25lb Trilene Big Game Monofilament – This lighter mono will be for the leader to your drift weight.
- 6-8 oz. Drift Ball OR Torpedo Weights – I personally like the drift ball because it won't tip over when it hits bottom unlike a torpedo weight. Torpedo weights, however, are more aerodynamic underwater and will get you down much quicker. The choice is yours!
- Although I use cheap Danielson snap swivels to attach my weights, I'll buy high quality ball-bearing snap swivels for my main line since I don't want a cheap snap swivel busting on me and losing the entire rig. For the weight itself I don't care since I want it to break if it snags anyways.
- For my treble hooks I like to use no thicker than a 2X strong hook for a few important reasons. If your hook is too thick it won't punch through the fish's mouth enough and you could lose quality fish. I also like the 2X thickness because it's strong enough to not bend out while fighting a fish but thin enough so I can bend it out on purpose if I snag a rock.
- I recommended a 6-8 oz. drift weight but you can always bump up or down if necessary. An example of when you upsize is when the swell picks up and your rig is left far behind the boat. In this case a 10-12 oz. drift weight will keep you closer underneath the boat as long as your rod can handle the load. Feel free to downsize when the weather is flat calm as it gives you better bite detection and is easier to work with.
Now that you have the components, it's time to slap this baby together! Keep in mind that these are adjustments that I personally use so feel free to experiment with leader length, line strength, hook size, etc.
- Using your 30-50lb mono, cut a 3ft strip of line and tie on your first treble hook with a Snell Knot.
- Slide your second treble hook on the line and tie it about 3-4 inches away from your first treble hook.
- Attach your double treble hook leader to the three-way swivel with a Palomar Knot.
- Using your 20-25lb mono, make a short 12 inch leader to a snap swivel.
- Attach the snap swivel leader to your three-way swivel using a Palomar Knot as well.
- You're all set. Now all you have to do is attach your choice of weight onto the snap swivel and your main line to the three-way swivel.
Assembling a three-way rig was the easy part, now you have to focus on the right gear to drift this rig effectively. I'd stick to a conventional/casting setup instead of a spinning setup for this rig, it's easier to maintain the drift with a conventional or casting setup.
Look out for rod stiffness as well. Too stiff of a rod and you'll lose feel and ultimately lose fish as well. Too soft of a rod and you'll be overpowered and struggle every time you drag your rig back to the surface, not to mention fight a fish.
- Ugly Stick Tiger Casting 7' 20-50lb – This rod will do the job perfectly at an extremely low price. The action is perfect for drifting an 6-8 oz. or even 10 oz. weight if necessary. Not the prettiest rod but it definitely gets the job done and beats its peers in price.
- Daiwa V.I.P. 870 – This 7' 15-40lb rod is similar to the Ugly Stick Tiger but with better action and overall feel. The foam grip is triangle-shaped for much better grip.
- Phenix Abyss 808 – By far my absolute favorite drift rod, but it can do so much more too. If you're willing to spend the extra dough, you get an 8' beauty with perfect action that will make drifting a breeze. Not to mention it has a lifetime, over-the-counter warranty so you don't have to worry about breaking it, ever.
I always spend more money on the reel, simple because it needs to handle heavy weight constantly while battling the harsh effects of saltwater. You don't have to break the bank, but I would definitely spend at least 100 bucks if not closer to $150 for a decent reel. It truly is an investment that will pay off over the years.
- Daiwa Seagate Star Drag 20H or 30H – At around $150 these are perfect for a number of applications. The Seagate is extremely simple yet high quality, and if you spend a little more you can get the Saltist Star Drag Black Gold 20H or 30H for higher-quality body materials and more bearings.
- Penn Squall 30 Star Drag – For $150 as well, you get an absolute workhorse. The beauty of Penn products is that for the mid to low-range line of products you get all-metal body construction and a practically indestructible reel. Definitely worth checking out.
Shimano Torium 16HG – I currently own two Toriums and I absolutely love them. If you're willing to spend the extra cash you get a compact, lighter reel with extremely smooth feel and tough carbon-fiber drag system. Worth the investment.
If you aren't fishing off of a charter boat, definitely use braided line. The braid will get you down to the bottom faster, give you crazy sensitivity and also cut through water better during the drift. With braid I can tell exactly when I'm on rock or sand and feel every tiny bite possible. Here are some of my suggestions
- Daiwa J-Braid
- PowerPro Spectra
- PowerPro SuperSlick
MONOFILAMENT LINE OPTIONS (20-25lb)
- Trilene Big Game
- Yo-Zuri Hybrid
- P-Line CXX
- Maxima Ultragreen
The possibilities are endless, but there are a few staple baits out there when you're drifting around in the salt. If you can get your hands on fresh-dead squid then you're in the money, but if not it's always great to buy frozen boxes of squid for pretty much the same results. Fish such as halibut will be more picky whereas a hungry lingcod wouldn't care less.
- Squid
- Herring
- Anchovy
- Mackerel
- Sardine
Finally, right? Fishing a drift rig is surprisingly simple, there are just a few tidbits to look out for if you want the best chance at avoiding snags and hooking the fish properly.
- When you hit bottom, reel up a few cranks. The last thing you want is for the treble hooks to dig into rock and other structure, causing you to break off valuable tackle not to mention spend time re-tying. Don't worry if you're a few feet off bottom, the fish aren't always planted at the bottom and will most likely swim up to eat.
- Every few moments, free-spool back down to the bottom just to see where you're at. Sometimes you'll drift over a huge drop-off and your bait will be too high up without you even knowing. Constantly touching back down to the bottom will give you an idea if you go from sand to rock structure and vice versa.
- When you get bit, reel in the slack before you set hook. Reeling in before a hookset will pick up the slack from the heavy weight you're using, allowing you to get a better position before punching the hooks through. Reel and swing in one steady motion.
- If the drift is too strong, use a drift sock to slow down your boat. This will make an enormous difference and help keep your rig right below you where it belongs.


text:
On Wednesday, a panel of journalists and activists with expertise on Syria gathered in the International Affairs Building to unravel some of the intricacies of the crisis and discuss the future of media coverage. Bwogger Lauren Beltrone was in attendance.
In between the sound of my ears popping as I rode the elevator to the 15th floor, I heard the woman to my right dub the lecture "a really big deal." That it was indeed. The event boasted panelists such as Carolyn Miles, President and CEO of Save the Children, Lara Setrakian, Executive Editor of the blog "Syria Deeply," Liam Stack, New York Times editor of "Watching Syria's War," Michael Oppenheimer, Clinical Professor of the Center for Global Affairs at NYU, and Jean-Marie Guéhenno, former UN Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations and current Director of the Center on International Conflict Resolution at SIPA. Originally the panel was to include Rami Jarrah, a Syrian opposition activist skyping in from Turkey, however due to technical difficulties this never came into fruition.
The moderator posed the first question to Lara and Liam, inquiring how we, as outsiders looking in, should understand the war in Syria. Lara launched into a succinct summary of the problems of modern-day journalism and how her website works to eliminate those problems. First she pointed out that since Syria's uprising came at the tail of Arab Spring, there was "not too much bandwidth left" to cover the war from the beginning. After reporting on the crisis for an American broadcasting channel, Lara was discouraged by how far the media was from capturing what was occurring in Syria. In her words, "In the state of American journalism, I had never seen a case where the consequence of an issue was so high and the comprehension was so low. And that was a very dangerous gap for everyone involved." Her project Syria Deeply offers comprehensive view of what's going sans position on US strike, treating the crisis not as a consistent narrative, but as a scatterplot. Since the US has so few experts on Syria, the news source employs mostly Syrian journalists on the ground. Syria Deeply has attracted attention as an avant-garde news source after TIME lauded the site for outsmarting news and re-defining crisis journalism.
Liam's response followed, detailing the NYT's thought-process when it came to covering the conflict. The publication wanted to use social media in a meaningful way to show what's going on in Syria from the perspective of military and civilian groups, which led to the creation of Watching Syria's War. By identifying, collecting, and curating videos of the crisis, this project aims to inform us about through the critical analysis of the hundreds of thousands of videos coming out of Syria. Each video is accompanied with a brief summary of the context and the source, and telling us "What We Know" and "What We Don't Know," and offering "Other Videos" and "Tweets related to this video" in order to provide context. Liam ended his allotted eight-minutes by accentuating that taking what you have and making the most of it lies at the core of all effective journalism.
The moderator's second question focused on the humanitarian aspect of the crisis, more specifically how Carolyn and the rest of Save the Children is facing the challenges that result from the two million internally and five million externally displaced persons. She prefaced her response with the statement, "This is a humanitarian disaster on a scale that we actually haven't seen for decades, but most people don't know that." She adds that we must remember that Syria was a middle-income country, and the families with whom she speaks emphasize that they led normal suburban lives until their schools, health care centers, and houses were destroyed. In order to assist the displaced persons (most of which are children), Carolyn and her team are stationed over the northern border from Turkey and therefore depend heavily on local organizations. The team must first address the massive hunger crisis, causing widespread violence and malnutrition among civilians. While acknowledging the strain the refugees are placing on bordering countries, Carolyn went on to say that her deepest concern for the region regards the children. After being out of school for two going on three years, this generation of Syrian youth has watched as their dreams of university have been replaced with a total lack of future outside of the refugee camp. We, as a country, have raised very little for Syria in comparison to the funds for disasters like those in Japan and Haiti, so Carolyn urges us spread awareness of the cause.
The final question was directed towards Jean and Michael, asked the two to discuss solutions to the conflict, focusing on US and Russian facilitation and nuclear intervention. Jean, an expert on peacekeeping, articulated that regardless of whether there exists a military solution, the utmost priority should be a quick end to the conflict. In his opinion, the strategy of pulling weapons into the country can be used to either strengthen one side to achieve victory or attempt to create a stalemate. The first option in the case of Syria is not possible, at least in the short run, and the second ignores the fact that the conflict is regional, and not national, and should be classified "as naïve at best." In regards to a political solution, Jean stressed that "a concerted effort of the international community" could lead to the process that allows for the emergence of a new government in Syria.
Michael from the Center for Global Affairs at NYU stated that the first way to encourage change is to "develop plausible alternate futures for Syria." According to Michael, this will push politicians to realize that the conflict is spreading into neighboring countries and continually getting worse. After a detailed analysis of the effects of escalation, he posited that if the regime were to consolidate in western Syria and use the implementation of buffer zones to eventually partition Syria, a solution (though not ideal or permanent) could result.
All in all, the panel was remarkably thorough in the way it dealt with taking apart the crisis and examining it piece by piece. Check out SIPA's broadcasting of the panel here if you want to watch the event in its entirety.
Map of Syria via ShutterStock.


text:
The wall-mounted STOPF clothes rack is a safe and stylish means of storing a wide range of clothing articles and accessories. While coats and jackets may hang from any of the large hooks, safe from creasing, hats, gloves, and scarves may be stuffed into the open compartment at the top and stored there. Thanks to the STOPF, you will never again lose any personal items. The compartment is conical in shape and formed so that nothing will fall out. It fits well with any room design.
700 x 181 x 100 mm
Wardrobe, birch plywood
Available in white and black
Designer: Felix Nolze