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Aging Skin
• Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), ]]>Antioxidants]]> ( ]]>Carotenoids]]> , ]]>Green Tea]]> , ]]>Milk Thistle]]> , ]]>Oligomeric Proanthocyanidin Complexes (OPCs)]]> , ]]>Selenium]]> , Soy ]]>Isoflavones]]> , ]]>Vitamin C]]> , ]]>Vitamin E]]> )
• ]]>Acupuncture]]>, ]]>Aloe]]>, Arnica, ]]>Beta-carotene]]>, ]]>Calendula]]>, ]]>Chamomile]]>, ]]>Coriander Oil]]>, ]]>DHEA]]> (Dehydroepiandrosterone) , Dead Sea Minerals, ]]>Glucosamine]]>, ]]>Gotu Kola]]>, "Growth Hormone Enhancers", IGF-1, IGF-2, TGF-A, and other growth factors, ]]>Niacinamide]]>, ]]>PABA]]>, ]]>Silicon]]>, Thuja, ]]>Vitamin A]]>, Vitis vinifera
• ]]>St. John's Wort]]>, ]]>Vitamin A]]> (Among People Using Tretinoin)
The substances collagen and elastin give skin its firmness and elasticity. With age, though, the collagen and elastin content of the skin gradually decreases. As a result, the skin becomes looser, weaker, less elastic, and drier. In addition, the fat pads under the skin begin to disappear. Wrinkles form, and the skin begins to sag.
This gradual loss of structure has several causes: genetic programming (a built-in "clock" that causes aging), cumulative sun damage (photoaging), and direct chemical effects from ]]>cigarette smoking]]> and/or abrasive chemicals. Sun damage additionally causes fine wrinkles that disappear when stretching the skin, surface roughness, mottled pigmentation, "liver" spots, and skin cancer.
In people who already have signs of aging skin and wish to reverse it, a number of treatments are available.
The drug tretinoin (retinoic acid, or Retin-A), a substance related to ]]>vitamin A]]> , has been shown effective for reversing the fine wrinkles, splotchy pigmentation, and rough skin of sun damage.
The hormone estrogen is thought to help restore normal skin tone in menopausal women, but the evidence for this widely held belief remains weak.
More aggressive treatments for aging skin include injections of botulin toxin, dermabrasion, chemical peels, soft tissue augmentation, laser resurfacing, and GORE-TEX® threads. For detailed information on the relative merits and demerits of these methods, consult a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
Principal Proposed Natural Treatments
Two classes of natural treatments have shown promise in the treatment of aging skin: alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and antioxidants. However, the evidence that they work remains incomplete, and AHAs can cause significant side effects.
Alpha-hydroxy Acids
Alpha-hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, are substances derived from fruit and dairy products. These are milder relatives of the substances used by dermatologists in chemical peels, which are designed to remove damaged layers of the skin. In recent years, cosmetic manufacturers have begun to add AHAs to numerous skin-care products.
Meaningful evidence in support of AHAs comes from one double-blind, placebo-controlled]]> study reported in 1996. ]]>1]]> This 22-week study enrolled 74 women with sun-damaged skin. Participants received either 8% glycolic acid, 8% L-lactic acid, or placebo cream, and applied it to the face and forearm. Although participants showed improvements in each of the three groups, superior results were achieved with each of the AHA creams than with the placebo cream.
Another double-blind study compared estrogen cream, glycolic acid cream, and their combination against placebo. ]]>26]]> Both estrogen and glycolic acid improved skin aging.
AHAs are not always harmless. Possible side effects include burning, blistering, severe redness, swelling (especially in the area of the eyes), bleeding, rash, and increased sensitivity to the sun. ]]>2]]> There are also concerns that AHAs may increase risk of skin cancer. For all these reasons, the FDA is currently investigating the use of AHAs in cosmetic products to determine whether they should be reclassified as drugs.
The ultraviolet light from the sun creates free radicals, naturally occurring substances that can harm many tissues of the body, including the skin. Antioxidants]]> are substances that neutralize free radicals. On this basis, various antioxidants have been investigated for their potential usefulness in treating or preventing photoaging. (Note, however, the surprising results described at the ]]>end]]> of this subsection.)
A small, 3-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found benefit with a cream containing 5% ]]>alpha-lipoic acid]]> . ]]>27]]> Use of this antioxidant substance improved several measures of aging skin as compared to placebo, especially skin roughness. Benefits have also been seen in preliminary studies with a cream containing ]]>vitamin C]]> . ]]>3,4]]>
In a small double-blind study, use of mixed antioxidants ( ]]>lycopene]]> , ]]>beta-carotene]]> , ]]>vitamin E]]> , and ]]>selenium]]> ) for 12 weeks improved skin roughness and scaling. ]]>36]]>
]]>Oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs)]]> made from grape seed or pine bark are widely marketed for the treatment of aging skin. These substances, closely related to ]]>bioflavonoids]]> , have antioxidant properties and might also protect and strengthen collagen and elastin. ]]>5-10]]> These effects provide theoretical reasons to believe that OPCs might be helpful for the treatment of aging skin. However, despite widespread marketing, no properly designed studies have been reported to indicate that OPCs really provide any benefit.
In an 8-week double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 40 women who already had sun-damaged skin, combined use of oral ]]>green tea]]> and a topical green tea cream failed to prove more effective than placebo in improving the condition of sun-damaged skin. ]]>29]]> Some possible benefits were seen in microscopic evaluation of skin condition.
Antioxidant substances have also been studied as aids to preventing sun damage.
Studies on laboratory animals found that topical ]]>vitamin C]]> and ]]>vitamin E]]> helped prevent burning on exposure to ultraviolet light. ]]>11-14]]>
One small, double-blind study found that 2 g of vitamin C and 1,000 IU of vitamin E taken orally for 8 days resulted in a modest decrease of "sunburn" induced by ultraviolet light. ]]>15]]> In addition, a 50-day, placebo-controlled study of 40 people found that higher doses of these vitamins provided a sun protection factor of about 2. ]]>16]]> (Compare this to the sun protection factor of 15 or higher in many sunscreens.) It appears that these vitamins must be taken together for best effect; when used alone they do not appear to work. ]]>16,17,40]]>
Oral use of ]]>beta-carotene]]> , ]]>lycopene]]> , and other ]]>carotenoids]]> has shown preventive effects in some but not all studies. ]]>25,30-31]]> Benefits have also been seen with mixtures of various antioxidants taken together (vitamin E, zeoxanthin, lutein, beta-carotene, and others). ]]>32-33]]>
Oral ]]>vitamin A]]> has shown some promise for preventing skin cancer in people at risk for it, but the doses used in studies were quite high, considerably above current recommendations for the maximum safe dose. ]]>28]]> ( Note: Do not use vitamin A along with the drug tretinoin. See ]]>Safety Issues]]> .)
Topical vitamin A may be helpful for treatment of aging skin. One double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that a 0.4% vitamin A lotion applied three times a week significantly reduced the number of "fine" wrinkles in seniors. ]]>42]]> Benefits were also seen in terms of some biochemical measures of skin health.
Because these antioxidants work in an entirely different manner from standard sunscreen, it appears reasonable to believe that they might offer a synergistic effect if taken with sunscreen. However, this hypothesis has not been studied.
Other substances with antioxidant actions that have shown some promise for treating or preventing aging skin include ]]>cocoa]]> , ]]>39]]>Vitis vinifera extract, ]]>43]]>]]>milk thistle]]> , ]]>21]]> and ]]>zinc]]> . ]]>21]]> However, the supporting evidence that use of these substances (taken either orally or topically) offers any benefit for the skin remains far too preliminary to be relied upon at all.
]]>Note : Any discussion of the potential benefits of antioxidants for preventing cancer must include the startling finding of a large study that tested the effect of mixed antioxidants. This trial, enrolling 7,876 women and 5,141 men, evaluated the potential benefits of a combination of vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, selenium, and zinc for preventing cancer. According to results published in 2007, no benefits were seen among male participants, but among women, skin cancer rates actually appeared to increase . 44]]> The cause of these findings remains unclear.
Other Proposed Natural Treatments
In a double-blind study of 50 women with signs of aging skin, use of topical niacinamide]]> cream significantly improved skin appearance and elasticity as compared to placebo cream. ]]>34]]>
A study published in 2007 tested a purified soy ]]>isoflavone]]> product (technically, isoflavone aglycones) for treatment of ]]>aging skin]]> . ]]>41]]> In this double-blind trial, 26 Japanese women in their late 30s and early 40s were either given placebo or 40 mg daily of soy isoflavone aglycones for 12 weeks. Researchers monitored two types of wrinkles near the eye: "fine" wrinkles and "linear" wrinkles. The results indicated that use of the soy product significantly reduced "fine" wrinkles as compared to placebo. (Effects on "linear" wrinkles were not significant.) As a secondary measure, researchers also analyzed skin elasticity, and found an improvement in the women given the isoflavones as compared to those given placebo.
An unusual soy extract containing soybean trypsin inhibitor (STI) and Bowman-Birk protease inhibitor (BBI) has also shown promise for aging skin. ]]>45]]> Sixty-five women with moderate skin damage from the sun either received soybean extract or placebo cream for 12 weeks. Compared to the women in the placebo group, treated women showed an improvement in mottled pigmentation, blotchiness, dullness, fine lines, as well as an overall enhancement of texture, skin tone, and appearance.
The substance ]]>glucosamine]]> is widely used for osteoarthritis in part because it seems to help collagen regenerate. For this reason, it has been advocated as a treatment for aging skin. However, the only evidence that it works comes from one poorly designed study. In this ]]>single-blind trial]]> , 72 women with symptoms of aging skin were divided into two unequal groups: a small group that received no treatment, and a much larger one that received a proprietary mixture of glucosamine, amino acids, and minerals. ]]>22]]> The results indicated greater improvement in the treated group as compared to the untreated group. However, because this was not a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, the results cannot be taken as reliable.
The mineral ]]>silicon]]> has also been proposed as a treatment for aging skin. In the one potentially meaningful published study, 50 women with sun-damaged skin were given either 10 mg silicon daily (as orthosilicic acid) or placebo for 20 weeks. ]]>35]]> Measurements of skin roughness and elasticity showed improvement in the silicon group as compared to the placebo group. However, this study, performed by the manufacturer of a silicon product, leaves much to be desired in design and reporting.
A proprietary dietary supplement containing ]]>soy]]> , fish protein polysaccharides, white tea extract, and many other ingredients has also shown promise, according to a study performed by the manufacturer. ]]>37]]>
One study provides weak evidence that the substance ]]>DHEA]]> (dehydroepiandrosterone) might be helpful for improving skin condition in seniors. ]]>38]]>
In a preliminary, double-blind blind study, ]]>coriander oil]]> applied topically was more effective than a placebo cream at reducing redness due to UVB exposure. ]]>46]]> This effect may or may not translate into long-term benefit for aging sun-damaged skin.
Numerous herbs and other natural products have been advocated for the treatment of aging skin, including ]]>aloe]]> , arnica, ]]>calendula]]> , ]]>chamomile]]> , dead sea minerals, ]]>gotu kola]]> , ]]>PABA]]> , thuja, and ]]>vitamin A]]> . Other products claim to contain biological substances called "growth factors"—with names such as IGF-1, IGF-2, TGF-A, TGF-B, EGF, and FGF—and go on to claim that these growth factors improve skin condition. Still others supposedly raise levels of human growth hormone in the body and, therefore, help produce youthful skin. However, there is no meaningful evidence that any of these treatments actually work.
So-called " ]]>acupuncture]]> face lifts" are widely available for treating facial wrinkles. They involve a series of treatments in which fine needles are inserted into the face. However, there is no evidence to indicate this method produces any benefit.
Herbs and Supplements to Use Only With Caution
The herb St. John's wort]]> contains a substance, hypericin, that increases the skin's sensitivity to the sun. ]]>23,24]]> For this reason, it is possible that use of St. John's wort could accelerate sun damage of skin.
People using the drug tretinoin (Retin-A) should not take high doses of ]]>vitamin A]]> , as each might increase the toxicity of the other.
1. Stiller MJ, Bartolone J, Stern R, et al. Topical 8% glycolic acid and 8% L-lactic acid creams for the treatment of photodamaged skin. A double-blind vehicle-controlled clinical trial. Arch Dermatol. 1996;132:631-636.
2. US Food and Drug Administration. Alpha hydroxy acids for skin care: smooth sailing or rough seas? FDA Consumer March-April 1998. Last Revised: May 1999. Available at: http://vm.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/fdacaha.html . Accessed March 21, 2003.
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9. Schwitters B, Masquelier J. OPC in Practice: Bioflavanols and their Applications. Rome, Italy: Alfa Omega; 1993.
10. Tixier JM, Godeau G, Robert AM, et al. Evidence by in vivo and in vitro studies that binding of pycnogenols to elastin affects its rate of degradation by elastases. Biochem Pharmacol. 1984;33:3933-3939.
11. Darr D, Combs S, Dunston S, et al. Topical vitamin C protects porcine skin from ultraviolet radiation-induced damage. Br J Dermatol . 1992;127:247-253.
12. Darr D, Dunston S, Faust H, et al. Effectiveness of antioxidants (vitamin C and E) with and without sunscreens as topical photoprotectants. Acta Derm Venereol. 1996;76:264-268.
13. Trevithick JR, Shum DT, Redae S, et al. Reduction of sunburn damage to skin by topical application of vitamin E acetate following exposure to ultraviolet B radiation: effect of delaying application or of reducing concentration of vitamin E acetate applied. Scanning Microsc. 1993;7:1269-1281.
14. Trevithick JR, Xiong H, Lee S, et al. Topical tocopherol acetate reduces post-UVB, sunburn-associated erythema, edema, and skin sensitivity in hairless mice. Arch Biochem Biophys. 1992;296:575-582.
15. Eberlein-Konig B, Placzek M, Przybilla B. Protective effect against sunburn of combined systemic ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and d-alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E). J Am Acad Dermatol. 1998;38:45-48.
16. Fuchs J, Kern H. Modulation of UV-light-induced skin inflammation by D-alpha-tocopherol and L-ascorbic acid: a clinical study using solar simulated radiation. Free Radic Biol Med. 1998;25:1006-1012.
17. Werninghaus K, Meydani M, Bhawan J, et al. Evaluation of the photoprotective effect of oral vitamin E supplementation. Arch Dermatol. 1994;130:1257-1261.
18. Katiyar SK, Matsui MS, Elmets CA, et al. Polyphenolic antioxidant (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate from green tea reduces UVB-induced inflammatory responses and infiltration of leukocytes in human skin. Photochem Photobiol. 1999;69:148-153.
19. Katiyar SK, Elmets CA, Agarwal R, et al. Protection against ultraviolet-B radiation-induced local and systemic suppression of contact hypersensitivity and edema responses in C3H/HeN mice by green tea polyphenols. Photochem Photobiol. 1995;62:855-861.
20. Elmets CA, Singh D, Tubesing K, et al. Cutaneous photoprotection from ultraviolet injury by green tea polyphenols. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2001;44:425-432.
21. Pinnell SR. Cutaneous photodamage, oxidative stress, and topical antioxidant protection. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2003;48:1-19.
22. Murad H, Tabibian MP. The effect of an oral supplement containing glucosamine, amino acids, minerals, and antioxidants on cutaneous aging: a preliminary study. J Dermatolog Treat. 2001;12:47-51.
23. Brockmoller J, Reum T, Bauer S, et al. Hypericin and pseudohypericin: pharmacokinetics and effects on photosensitivity in humans. Pharmacopsychiatry . 1997;30(Suppl 2):94-101.
24. Lane-Brown MM. Photosensitivity associated with herbal preparations of St John's wort ( Hypericumperforatum ) [letter]. Med J Aust. 2000;172:302.
25. Darlington S, Williams G, Neale R, et al. A randomized controlled trial to assess sunscreen application and beta carotene supplementation in the prevention of solar keratoses. Arch Dermatol. 2003;139:451-455.
26. Fuchs KO, Solis O, Tapawan R, et al. The effects of an estrogen and glycolic acid cream on the facial skin of postmenopausal women: a randomized histologic study. Cutis. 2003;71:481-488.
27. Beitner H. Randomized, placebo-controlled, double blind study on the clinical efficacy of a cream containing 5% alpha-lipoic acid related to photoageing of facial skin. Br J Dermatol. 2003;149:841-849.
28. Moon TE, Levine N, Cartmel B, et al. Effect of retinol in preventing squamous cell skin cancer in moderate-risk subjects: a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. Southwest Skin Cancer Prevention Study Group. CancerEpidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 1997;6:949-956.
29. Chiu AE, Chan JL, Kern DG, et al. Double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial of green tea extracts in the clinical and histologic appearance of photoaging skin. Dermatol Surg. 2005;31:855-860; discussion 860.
30. Stahl W, Heinrich U, Wiseman S, et al. Dietary tomato paste protects against ultraviolet light-induced erythema in humans. J Nutrit. 2001;131:1449-1451.
31. Heinrich U, Gartner C, Wiebusch M, et al. Supplementation with beta-carotene or a similar amount of mixed carotenoids protects humans from UV-induced erythema. J Nutrit. 2003;133:98-101.
32. Greul AK, Grundmann JU, Heinrich F, et al. Photoprotection of UV-irradiated human skin: an antioxidative combination of vitamins E and C, carotenoids, selenium, and proanthocyanidins. Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology. 2002;15:307-315.
33. Stahl W, Heinrich U, Jungmann H, et al. Carotenoids and carotenoids plus vitamin E protect against ultraviolet light-induced erythema in humans. Am J Clin Nutrit. 2000;71:795-798.
34. Bissett DL, Oblong JE, Berge CA, et al. Niacinamide: A B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance. Dermatol Surg. 2005;31:860-865; discussion 865.
35. Barel A, Calomme M, Timchenko A, et al. Effect of oral intake of choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid on skin, nails and hair in women with photodamaged skin. Arch Dermatol Res. 2005 Oct 5. [Epub ahead of print]
36. Heinrich U, Tronnier H, Stahl W, et al. Antioxidant Supplements Improve Parameters Related to Skin Structure in Humans. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2006 May 4. [Epub ahead of print]
37. Skovgaard GR, Jensen AS, Sigler ML. Effect of a novel dietary supplement on skin aging in post-menopausal women. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2006 May 3. [Epub ahead of print]
38. Baulieu EE, Thomas G, Legrain S, et al. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA sulfate, and aging. Contribution of the DHEAge study to a sociobiomedical issue. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2000;97:4279-4284.
39. Heinrich U, Neukam K, Tronnier H, et al. Long-term ingestion of high flavanol cocoa provides photoprotection against UV-induced erythema and improves skin condition in women. J Nutr. 2006;136:1565-1569.
40. Palombo P, Fabrizi G, Ruocco V, et al. Beneficial long-term effects of combined oral/topical antioxidant treatment with the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin on human skin: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2007;20:199-210.
41. Izumi T, Saito M, Obata A, et al. Oral intake of soy isoflavone aglycone improves the aged skin of adult women. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 2007;53:57-62.
42. Kafi R, Kwak HS, Schumacher WE, et al. Improvement of naturally aged skin with vitamin a (retinol). Arch Dermatol. 2007;143:606-612.
43. Cornacchione S, Sadick NS, Neveu M, et al. In vivo skin antioxidant effect of a new combination based on a specific Vitis vinifera shoot extract and a biotechnological extract. J Drugs Dermatol. 2007;6:s8-13.
44. Hercberg S, Ezzedine K, Guinot C, et al. Antioxidant supplementation increases the risk of skin cancers in women but not in men. J Nutr. 2007;137:2098-2105.
45. Wallo W, Nebus J, Leyden JJ. Efficacy of a soy moisturizer in photoaging: a double-blind, vehicle-controlled, 12-week study. J Drugs Dermatol. 2007;6:917-922.
46. Reuter J, Huyke C, Casetti F, et al. Anti-inflammatory potential of a lipolotion containing coriander oil in the ultraviolet erythema test. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2008 Mar 26.
Last reviewed April 2009 by EBSCO CAM Review Board]]>
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Copyright © 2007 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.


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Album reviews: Vampire Weekend, Trace Adkins, Demi Lovato
POP: Vampire Weekend, "Modern Vampires of the City," (XL) 3 Stars
Almost halfway through Vampire Weekend's third album, frontman Ezra Koenig declares that "youngbloods can't be settling down" -- and the New York quartet certainly doesn't here. While previous albums "Vampire Weekend" and "Contra" were clever and brainy -- the Strokes by way of Paul Simon's "Graceland" -- "Modern Vampires of the City" goes light on the polyrhythms (they're still present in "Everlasting Arms") but adds more heart, soul and ambient spaciousness to the mix, combining arty ambition with playful passion. "Obvious Bicycle" starts things off with a hollow beat and light piano under a trick vocal arrangement, while "Unbelievers" takes VW back into the garage, with Rostam Batmanglij's organ in the driver's seat. The group's noisy side gets a fierce workout on "Diane Young" and the kinetic of "Finger Black" (with a spoken-word section set in Jerusalem) while the beat-crazy "Ya Hey" and "Worship You" make use of African-flavored vocalics and chorales, respectively. The takeaway from "Modern Vampires," however, is the sophisticated popcraft embodied in songs such as "Step," "Hudson" and the closing "Young Lion." This clearly isn't a band that plans to stay in one place very long, which over time may prove to be the greatest virtue of all.
ROCK: Pop Evil, "Onyx" (eOne): 2 1/2 Stars
Pop Evil's time has been coming for a while, but the Grand Rapids hard rock group is in a new state of arrival on its fourth album. With the single "Trenches" already a Top 5 rock radio hit, the quintet has elevated its game on every level with this 12-track album -- from pithy songwriting to tight playing to dynamic, impactful production and even, yes, commerciality on chart-worthy songs such as "Beautiful," "Fly Away" and the power ballads "Torn To Pieces," "Silence & Scars" and "Behind Closed Doors." Fans of the heavier stuff, meanwhile, will gravitate toward "Deal With the Devil," "Sick Sense," "Divide" and the album-closing duo of "Welcome to Reality" and "Flawed," while the confluence of all these parts should lock Pop Evil into rock's big leagues this time around.
New & Noteworthy:
Trace Adkins, "Love Will ..." (Show Dog Universal): The deep-voiced country star is joined by Colbie Caillat, the Harlem Gospel Choir and members of Exile -- on a remake of "Kiss You All Over," of all things -- for his 11th studio album.
Sam Amidon, "Bright Sunny South" (Nonesuch): The Vermont-born, London-raised singer-songwriter covers songs by Tim McGraw and Mariah Carey on his full-length debut.
Randall Bramblett, "The Bright Spots" (New West): The veteran Georgia singer, songwriter and Gregg Allman and Steve Winwood sidekick keeps a soul root on his latest solo set.
Jason Boland & the Stragglers, "Dark and Dirty Mile" (Proud Souls/Thirty Tigers): The fiesty country-rocker co-produced his seventh album with kindred spirit Shooter Jennings.
Boxer Rebellion, "Promises" (Absentee): The British indie rock quartet made its fourth album in Los Angeles with co-producer Billy Bush.
Will Calhoun, "Life in this World" (Motema Music): The Living Colour drummer embraces his jazz roots on this solo set, joined by luminaries such as Ron Carter, Donald Harrison, Wallace Roney and others.
The Del Lords, "Elvis Club" (GB Music): Three of the hard-hitting New York group's founding members are back on board for the band's first new album in 23 years.
The Dillinger Escape Plan, "One of Us is the Killer" (Party Smasher/Sumerian): The New Jersey headbangers stay topical on their fifth album, even bellowing about "The Threat Posed by Nuclear Weapons."
Escape The Fate, "Ungrateful" (Eleven Seven): The Las Vegas metal troupe sports two new members on its fourth studio album.
Eve, "Lip Lock" (From the Rib): The hip-hop singer's fourth album is loaded with guests such as Missy Elliott, Snoop Dogg, Juicy J, Pusha T and Cobra Starship's Gabe Saporta.
Agnetha Faltskog, "A" (Universal): The blond ABBA singer delivers her first English album in nine years, and her first of original material since 1987.
Amy Grant, "How Mercy Looks From Here" (AGP/Sparrow): The Christian/pop singer-songwriter gets help from James Taylor, Sheryl Crow, Carole King, husband Vince Gill and others on her latest outing.
The Handsome Family, "Wilderness" (Carrot Top): The rootsy Chicago husband-wife duo's latest release comes with a companion book of essays and artwork by banjoist Rennie Sparks.
Christian McBride & Inside Straight, "People Music" (Mack Avenue): The busy and inventive bassist employs two different versions of his Inside Straight band on this set of jazz tracks.
Mindless Self Indulgence," How I Learned To Stop Giving a S*** & Love ..." (Uppity Cracker): The New York synthpop troupe is as gleefully irreverent and profane as ever on its fifth studio album.
Demi Lovato, "Demi" (Hollywood): The "Camp Rock"-bred pop singer and "X Factor" judge continues to mature on her fourth studio album, with co-writing credits on several of its 13 tracks.
Bobby McFerrin, "spirityouall" (Sony Masterworks): The facile vocalists honors his father, opera baritone Robert McFerrin Sr., on this spiritually minded set.
MSMR, "Secondhand Rapture" (Columbia): The Brooklyn indie pop duo debuts after courting hipster cred with its "Candy Bar Creep Show" EP.
George Strait, "Love is Everything" (MCA Nashville): The country legend rides into retirement (from touring, at least) with his 28th studio album, which ends, appropriately, with "When the Credits Roll."
Tea Leaf Green, "In the Wake" (Greenhouse): The San Francisco jam band taps into the wake of some personal tragedies on its most personal set of songs to date.
Scott Tournet, "Vera La Luz" (self-released): Grace Potter is a not-so-surprising guest on this solo debut by her Nocturals bandmate.
Steve Tyrell, "It's Magic: The Songs of Sammy Cahn" (Concord): The Texas-born vocalist pays tribute to one of the greatest figures in the Great American Songbook.
From The Vaults: The Breeders, "LSXX" (4AD); Devo, "Live in Seattle 1981" (Redeye); Grateful Dead, "Dave's Picks: Volume 6" (Deadnet/Rhino); Head East, "Live" (Rock Candy); Kings of Leon, "The Collection Box" (RCA/Legacy); Huey Lewis & the News "Sports (30th Anniversary Edition)" (Capitol/Universal); R.E.M., "Green (25th Anniversary Deluxe Edition)" (Rhino)
Soundtracks: Michael Giachhino, "Star Trek: Into Darkness" (Varese)
Gary Graff's work can also be found at www.goanddomichigan.com, www.twitter.com/GraffonMusic and in the Facebook group Gary Graff on Music, while his Classic Rock Insider reports appear at www.wcsx.com. Gary's latest book, "Rock & Roll Myths: The True Stories Behind the Most Infamous Legends" (Voyageur Press) is available now.


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Read Fieldhouse/University Arena
The Western Michigan men's and women's basketball squads, volleyball team, indoor track and field and gymnastics squad all compete in the renovated University Arena (5,421) in Read Fieldhouse, which was part of a $50 million renovation and expansion project of student recreation, physical education and intercollegiate athletic facilities (1994).
The most recent construction offered a multitude of new features for Bronco student-athletes, staff and fans. The court was rotated to allow the installation of more chairback seating and the overhead press area was moved to courtside, providing media members easier access .
Three floors of offices were added adjacent to the area to house a majority of the WMU athletic administration, support and coaching staffs.
Also included in the new wing were top-level locker rooms for numerous sports. The third floor of the complex provides exclusive space for the women's gymnastics squad to train.
The academic services center, equipment and training rooms are also located in the building, centralizing a majority of the department's activities.
In a continued effort to make University Arena a place for everyone to enjoy, the summer of 1999 saw a project completed that included the resurfacing of the court. The entire floor was repainted, including a pair of new Bronco logos on both sides of the court.
In the summer of 2010 a $525,000 renovation took place resulting in the resurfacing of the indoor track and replacement of baseline bleachers. The new track surface comes from the world renowned company Mondo, with $400,000 going towards the new surface.
Read first opened for men's basketball in December, 1957. It was officially named in honor of legendary coach Herbert "Buck" Read during a 1963 game against defending NCAA Champion Loyola.
The winningest coach in program history, Read coached the Broncos to an overall record of 345-169 during his 27-year tenure. Amazingly, 23 of those squads compiled winning records, including an undefeated (17-0) campaign in 1929-30.


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Series Scores Double Digit Growth Vs. Year Ago Launch Numbers with a 1.1 Rating in the Key Female Demo and 1.1 Million Total Viewers
Los Angeles, CA - The two hour premiere of Oprah Winfrey's new primetime series "Oprah's Next Chapter" on Sunday, January 1 (9-11 p.m. ET/PT) garnered the network's highest Sunday premiere ever on OWN with a 1.1 rating in the key female demo (W25-54) and 1.1 million total viewers.
The premiere episode, which featured an intimate interview with Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler at his lake house in Lake Sunapee, New Hampshire, posted the highest ratings ever in the 9-11 p.m. time period (up +463% W25-54 versus the Sunday 9-11 p.m. December 2011 timeperiod average), built through its second hour, and garnered double digit growth across all key demos versus year ago network launch numbers (1.1 W25-54, 1.1 HH, 1.1 million total viewers; +83% W25-54, +38% HH, +47% P2+).
This was the highest rated premiere for a series on OWN outside of the network's launch weekend only behind the two hour premiere of "Season 25: Oprah Behind the Scenes" on Saturday, January 1, 2011 (1.11 W25-54, 1.2 million total viewers) making it the second highest telecast for the network to date across all key demos.
Source: The Nielsen Company
OWN ratings are coverage ratings.
About "Oprah's Next Chapter"
Sundays 9:00-10:00 p.m. ET/PT
In this new, weekly, primetime series, Oprah steps outside of the studio for riveting, enlightening and in-depth conversations with newsmakers, celebrities, thought leaders and real-life families. Produced by Harpo Studios. During the first season, Oprah also speaks with Pastor Joel Osteen after attending his church service in Houston, Texas (January 8), tours Skywalker Ranch with George Lucas as her personal guide (January 15), has a slumber party at Southern chef Paula Deen's Georgia estate (January 22) and journeys to Haiti with Sean Penn nearly twoyears after the devastating earthquake that took the lives of more than 300,000 people (January 29).
Join the conversation on Twitter #OprahsNextChapter
About OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network
A joint venture between Harpo, Inc. and Discovery Communications, OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network is a multi-platform media company designed to entertain, inform and inspire people to live their best lives. OWN debuted on January 1, 2011, in approximately 77 million homes on what was the Discovery Health Channel. The venture also includes the award-winning digital platform, Oprah.com. OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network is currently available in approximately 67% of homes in the United States and 80% of cable homes.


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NEW MUSIC: CyHi The Prynce (@CyHiThePrynce) – "Credit 'I' Deserve"
Tags: ATL, Credit 'I' Deserve, CyHi The Prynce, hip hop, hiphop, music, new music, rap, Soundcloud
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BIG X'S TOP 5 of the WEEK
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Auto Publishers Price Starting at
*Based on model year EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your atual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid only) and other factors.VIEW OUR INVENTORY
Towing capacity; turbocharged engines; available in a huge variety of trims; improved gas mileage; rugged durability
The Ford F-150 has been completely redesigned for 2015. The new truck is tougher, sturdier and stronger but also lighter and smarter. Ford has injected a healthy dose of modern technology into a class of vehicle that has traditionally valued "proven know-how" over "exciting new possibilities." With the introduction of a second available Ecoboost V6 this year, Ford continues to utilize turbocharged engines in its workhorse pickup truck, which is paying dividends in gas mileage and power.


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Background checks for all gun purchases - what's so terrible about that????? Why is the US so obsessed about guns? For a civilised country in the 21st century why is there this incredible reluctance to face up to, what to the rest of the world, is obviously an important issue? How many more massacres will it take?
As Dylan said: 'the answer is blowing in the wind'.


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» NEWS: » Friendswood EMS
Image DataCamera //
Date Taken // 01-01-1970 00:00
Dimensions // 259 x 194
Aperture // f/0
Focal Length // 0mm
Shutter Speed // 0.00 seconds
We are a property owners association consisting of 99 homes in Friendswood Texas (Galveston County).
The Property Owners Association board is made up of homeowner volunteers.
Located in the northwestern corner of Galveston County--South of 518 and East of 528, we are approximately 25 miles south from downtown Houston.
We belong to Friendswood Independent School District (FISD)
A Texas Education Agency Exemplary Rated District. http://www.fisdk12.net/


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Is it what you need?
Everything you've learned so far will help determine if a web site is one you can trust and use in your research. But you should also make sure the site is appropriate for your needs. Ask yourself the following:
- How does it contribute to your research?
- How does the information compare to information you found in books, articles and other types of resources?
- Are you judging the site fairly? Too harshly? Are you being objective?
- Is this site good for some uses but not for others?
Check the reputation
It is often helpful to see what others say about a website. For example, you can search on the Librarian's Internet Index, a web directory created and maintained by librarians, who recommend websites after careful review and evaluation. The web site's inclusion in the Librarian's Internet Index is a strong vote of confidence that the website is credible.
Also, try searching on the author or organization's name in a
search engine or database to see what additional information you can locate.


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Boldro is a hazardous reef with some very good lefts and rights that barrel when it's small, but it gets a little crazy when the swell is over 6ft. Lower tides are needed to pull the waves off the rock shelf and swell direction will decide which side fires.
Fast and wedgy at the peak, coupled with rocks and some protective locals make this an experienced surfers spot.


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In today's world, it can be easy to incur damages that exceed your standard policy's limits. Protect your family's financial future with an umbrella insurance policy with Rockingham. A local agent can help you determine the right amount of coverage for your needs.
An umbrella policy provides additional liability limits to your homeowner's, condominium or renter's policy and automobile policy of at least $1,000,000. Additional coverage up to $5,000,000 is available with Rockingham. It also provides coverage that may be excluded in your existing policies.
A $15 credit is applied to your homeowner's policy premium if your primary homeowner's and personal umbrella coverage are with Rockingham Insurance.
Rockingham offers affordable umbrella policies that provide additional liability limits of $1-5 million to complement your homeowners, condominium, renters, and automobile policy. Coverage is also available for things that may be excluded in your existing policies.
When considering umbrella coverage, evaluate your current income and assets as well as your future earning potential.
Some restrictions apply. Discounts are subject to account eligibility. Services and products are subject to geographic availability. Not all policies and discounts are available in all states.


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Vesuvius and I have a little one-to-one chat each time I visit Pompeii in southern Italy. It's the first thing and the last thing I do on every fieldwork and research visit. Without Vesuvius I couldn't be the archaeologist and researcher that I am.
As a Roman archaeologist specialising in socio-cultural and economic examinations of ancient Pompeii and the early Roman Empire I have visited the ancient city countless times in the past 15 years. I feel like I know the city like the back of my hand: entering at the Porta Marina gate, sharing greetings with the Pompeii superintendency staff and custodians who I haven't seen in a number of months or years, climbing the steep Via Marina road leading into the city that widens into the city as you arrive at the forum. Turn left and it's the backdrop to the Capitoline Triad temple remains: Mt Vesuvius, the volcano that catastrophically destroyed and preserved the Roman city, a small town that wasn't of particular great importance in the Roman Empire. The violent eruption of AD 79 had a myriad of consequences, covering the city in several metres of ash and pumice after a 24 hour long bombardment and killing those who had not escaped the city and burying the contents of their homes, businesses, religious sites and theatres entirely.
Nearly two thousand years later the city was 'rediscovered' (although it had never properly been lost) under the Bourbon rulers of Naples in 1748. Ten years earlier the ancient city of Herculaneum had been found and the fever of antiquarianism was rising. Excavation revealed surprisingly familiar aspects of an ancient civilisation: statuary, belongings, homes, and so on. Despite early use of backfilling, a practice in which materials excavated, such as soil, are returned to the opened areas, Pompeii eventually became the open air museum that we understand it as today. But don't be fooled. This isn't a city frozen in time. Since Day 1 of its burial the site has been subject to a slow, natural decomposition in addition to destruction carried out by humans, both in antiquity and from 1748 onwards.
My research, mostly carried out as part of a PhD degree, focuses upon the lesser studied shops and workshops, also known as tabernae, which fronted many of the homes along major arteries in the city. These small structures are important because they tell us about what everyday life was like for non-elite Romans, slaves and freedmen (ex-slaves) in terms of where they worked, their trades and crafts, their eating and drinking habits, and, in a few cases, where they may have lived. An insight into Roman shops at Pompeii provides an understanding of population, society, culture, urban planning, trade, and commerce. It also tells us quite a lot about the impact of war and Roman colonisation, slavery, migration, patronage, art, neighbourhood development and industrialisation across the city.
In light of city's size, I have chosen to work in a quarter known today as Region 8, just south of the forum and Via dell'Abbondanza, close to the two theatres of the Entertainment District, and bordered by the city wall and the Porta Marina and Porta Stabia gates. Most tourists to the city will walk by my shops without noticing their presence or their importance to the city, although they might notice the shops with counters looking like taverns. The majority of the 93 shops in this area are small structures under four rooms in total. Some are directly connected to the elite houses (popularly known as villas, but correctly identified as domus) that were owned by families of local political importance who also maintained commercial interests, which is in contrast to incorrect 19th & 20th century views that Roman elites avoided direct trade and monetary dealings.
One particular aspect of shops is a favourite of mine: the architecture. Quite a lot of my time is spent at my desk in England analysing field research carried out site and the architecture is often the most revealing because 18th & 19th century excavation records rarely include recordings of finds from the shops despite being rich sources of materials and decorated buildings in their own right. Archaeologists often refer to this type of analysis as non-invasive research' because it doesn't require further excavation and damage to ancient structures and landscapes. Pompeii is an excellent site to carry out this type of approach because the wealth of material and speed of early excavations means that much remains to be interpreted from exposed buildings and their contents. It is quite a lot like putting a massive puzzle back together when you don't have an entire understanding of what that puzzle is meant to be.
To keep track of the extensive number of photographs, plans, archival records and my own analysis findings I developed a digital database (along with some generous assistance from Derek Littlewood, @eggboxderek). I love reading the walls for the information that they provide, with or without their finished decoration, revealing building phases and additions, and most importantly telling archaeologists about reconstruction following the seismic activity, including earthquakes, leading up to the fatal eruption in AD 79. Even details such as the simple thresholds set within shop doorways are thrilling: I can understand how and when these doorways and their doors operated, learn about Roman carpentry and locks and take part in scholarly debates around differences between mezzanines and upper floors and why their different terminology and definitions affect their use.
And while my PhD research isn't a group project, I depend on the regular exchanges of ideas and discussion of new developments at Pompeii with a number of other researchers. Some of the especially important individuals, projects, and publications, that have impacted my area of research in the recent past include Dr Joanne Berry, Drs Steven Ellis and Eric Poehler of the Pompeii Archaeological Research Project: Porta Stabia, Dr Sophie Hay (@pompei79), and many, many others.
Sera Baker is currently completing a PhD at The University of Nottingham, UK. She enjoys discussing Roman archaeology on her Twitter feed, @seraecbaker. To learn more about Pompeii take a look at the official archaeological website from the Soprintendenza Speciale per i Beni Archeologici di Pompei, Ercolano e Stabia (English & Italian; for most complete information use the Italian site).


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This is kind of a busy week around here – both in the blog world and in real life. A new tutorial is on the docket and some Fabric 101. Also, my friend from Norway is coming this week. I am binding her flag quilt and catching up on last week's SYTYCD. I love how the quilt turned out. If I didn't love her so much, I might not part with it.
Also, I love summer. 🙂 But I need more sleep. I'm trying to not be on the computer during the day while my kids are around, so I'm saving my computer stuff until after they've gone to bed. This is not a good system. Especially when the 4-year-old wakes up at 6:45 each morning. Saturday night we finally hung curtains over the blinds in his room and he slept in until 7:20 this morning. I'll take it! Every little bit helps.


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Market Scene: 77 Flea Market in Brownsville, TX
Don't believe anyone who says going to the 77 Flea Market in Brownsville is just like being in Mexico. Yes, it's located very close to the border, but the large selection of cowboy hats and boots and Rio Grande Valley delicacies like hot Cheetos smothered with queso should serve as a pretty good indicator that this particular market is distinctly Tex-Mex.
The market operates every Saturday and Sunday from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. in a dedicated covered space located near an elevated highway. One hot weekend afternoon, we snaked through the rows of over 2,000 vendors, who sell a vast array of electronics, clothing, books, herbal remedies, sunglasses, piñatas, kitchenware, jewelry, bags, chickens, parakeets, hamsters, and, of course, food.
There were piles of produce including nopales, avocados, tropical fruits, and Rio Grande Valley oranges and grapefruits. Mexican food trucks pull into their spaces with tables and chairs, forming makeshift restaurants. Vendors ringing bells weave through the market selling paletas and other frozen treats. Strangely, there are also plenty of state fair-themed foods, like funnel cakes, pizza, and chili powder-dusted spiral potato chips on sticks. The highlight was the empandas de cajeta—flaky homemade butter cookies filled with subtly salty caramel. Don't pass those up if you're ever in Brownsillve—I'm considering driving back just for another round. Click through the slideshow to see the sites.
All products linked here have been independently selected by our editors. We may earn a commission on purchases, as described in our affiliate policy.


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Britney Spears' comeback continues with an impressive reported seven Moon Man nominations for the upcoming 2009 MTV Video Music Awards.
According to E! Online's Marc Malkin, Britney could top last year's VMA performance, where she walked away with three trophies for "Piece of Me."
VIEW THE PHOTOS: Pop Princess Britney Spears
No word yet on which of Brit's videos could be honored, but with "Womanizer," "Circus," "If U Seek Amy," and "Radar" all released from her latest album, "Circus," the pop star could be nominated for multiple videos.
In more VMA noms news, Eminem and Kanye West will battle it against each other in four different categories, MTV News reported.
VIEW THE PHOTOS: Hottest Hip-Hop Stars!
Eminem's "We Made You" video and Kanye's "Love Lockdown" will duke it out for Video of the Year, Best Male Video and Best Hip Hop Video. And "We Made You" is up against Kanye's "Paranoid" in the Best Special Effects category.
There is still no word if Britney, Kanye or Eminem could be making appearances at this year's festivities at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Scheduled performers include Green Day, Pink, Taylor Swift and Muse. Comedian Russell Brand is returning to lead the show for the second straight year.
MTV is expected to announce more nominees and additional performers later today for the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards, airing on September 13, 2009.
Related Content from AccessHollywood.com:
VIEW THE PHOTOS: 2008 MTV Video Music Awards
PLAY IT NOW: Behind The Scenes: Britney Spears' Candie's Photo Shoot (July 2009)
PLAY IT NOW: 2008 MTV VMAs: Travis Barker and DJ AM
MORE ACCESS ON THESE TOPICS: MTV Video Music Awards - Pink - TV - Britney Spears - Pop


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Match LIGHT faces with HEAT faces!
The pictures in the top row were taken with an infrared camera. The pictures on the second row were taken with a regular camera. An infrared camera sees heat, rather than light. Can you match up the face in the infrared image with the same face in visible light?
If you match all the images, this web page will automatically reload, mixing up the infrared images so you may play again. If you match incorrectly, you will be allowed to change your answers.
The infrared pictures (normally in shades of gray) have been colored so that the warmer and cooler parts of the faces would show up better.
Quiet thinker
Ice cream lover
Track runner
Cocoa drinker
Infrared waves are just like visible light, except longer . . . too long for our eyes to see.
Our eyes see light waves that are not too short, not too long, but just right within a tiny range of sizes.
Infrared waves are too long for our eyes to see, but warm objects are sending them out all the time. So we see light from a lightbulb, but we don't see the heat from the lightbulb.
As you can see, things "look" very different in infrared. All we need is a special infrared-detecting instrument. See the sidebar for just the thing!


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POOR SPORTS: U.S. women's soccer team defends showboating in blowout win
Players on the U.S. women's soccer team defended their exuberant celebrations for all 13 goals scored in a blowout 13-0 win over Thailand at the Women's World Cup in Riems, France.
"We really just came into the game really wanting to showcase ourselves," U.S. striker Alex Morgan said, the Associated Press reports. "We knew that every goal could matter in this group stage game and when it comes to celebrations this was a really good team performance and I think it was important for us to celebrate together."
Thailand's players were left in tears from the clobbering but that didn't stop the U.S. players from celebrating the latter goals in the drubbing.
Commentators and fans on social media expressed their disapproval or disgust at what many saw as unsportsmanlike showboating.
"As a Canadian we would just never ever think of doing something like that … For me it's disrespectful," said former Canadian international soccer player and commentator Kaylyn Kyle said during a panel on TSN.
Kyle later received death threats for her criticism of the U.S. team showing off.
Another former Canadian player Clare Rustad took issue with the U.S. team's behaviour.
"I would have hoped they could have won with humility and grace but celebrating goals 8, 9, and 10 the way they were doing is really unnecessary," Rustad said during the panel.
Team USA coach Jill Ellis questioned whether the backlash to the relentless celebrations would've been the same if it were a game involving men, the Canadian Press reports.
"If this is 10-0 in a men's World Cup are we getting the same questions," she asked.
Ellis also explained why she had her players rack up the score and continue to enthusiastically celebrate every goal despite the massive deficit between them and their opponent.
"This is a world championship, so every team here has been fantastic to get to this point. And I think that to be respectful to opponents is to play hard against opponents, and as Alex said, it's a tournament where goal differential is important.
"I don't find it my job to harness my players and rein them in because this is what they dreamt about. This is it for them. This is a world championship."


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SPRINGFIELD — Since he was 5 years old, Col. Wesley R. Anderson of Minooka and native of Manlius, knew he wanted to be a soldier and so did everyone else.
In his high school yearbook, his classmates predicted he would be a general someday. Years later when he returned for reunions, they weren't surprised to see he was living his childhood dream. It may have been because he wore his father's and stepfather's dog tags every day, even during football games. Or maybe they just knew he was a natural leader.
Right after high school, an 18-year-old Anderson quickly found himself providing for his new wife and young son by working for John Deere. As he was home from work sick one day, he realized it was time to make a change.
"I was doing what I had to do, but I needed to get back to who I was," he said.
Soon he was on the phone with an Army recruiter and was given the chance he always wanted.
"(The recruiter) gave me an opportunity I don't think I would have gotten on my own," he said.
Like his classmates, his wife June wasn't surprised when he decided to enlist. Anderson went to basic training in 1981 and soon commissioned through Northern Illinois University's Reserve Officer Training Corps in 1983. Then in 1985 he entered into the Active Guard Reserve (AGR) service. Today he is the longest-serving AGR commissioned officer in Illinois Army National Guard history.
His first commander was then 1st Lt. Dennis L. Celletti at Troop E, 106th Cavalry in Rock Falls. Celletti of Springfield, now a major general, is the Illinois National Guard's Assistant Adjutant General-Army.
"When I first met then Cadet Anderson, I knew he would be an outstanding leader and commissioned officer," Celletti said. "I never could have predicted how many times our paths would cross during our careers, but I'm so grateful they did. He not only applied my guidance to his leadership style, but he made it his own."
Anderson said he learned a lot from Celletti and applied Celletti's "back to basics" leadership throughout his career. Anderson even applied those "basics," such as personnel and property accountability and always referring to regulations nearly 30 years after his first assignment when he was director of military personnel for the Illinois Army National Guard.
In that position, he was a colonel and said he realized he had become a coach and a mentor who invested in the success of his subordinates.
"I empowered them to do their jobs," he said. "I gave a vision and flew top cover."
One of those subordinates was Sgt. 1st Class Jamie Williams of Sherman, with Joint Force Headquarters in Springfield. Williams worked with Anderson in the military personnel office.
"I learned so much from him. He taught me what a true leader is," she said. "He would always sit at your desk and chat with you if it seemed you were having a rough day and would not leave until it seemed your mood was better. He did that with everyone. He cared so much about his soldiers. We were his military family and he treated us the same as his family."
His next and final position within the Illinois Army National Guard was as chief of staff, also a position held by Celletti.
Anderson said he expanded on what he learned as a leader throughout his career and applied those lessons learned to the new position as the chief of staff.
"I managed the talent and relied on them to make me smart," he said. "I'm grateful I had the opportunity to grow in that position."
In addition to his positions as director of personnel and chief of staff, Anderson held various positions including executive officer of Troop E, 106th Cavalry Regiment, commander of Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 131st Infantry Regiment, operations officer (S3) and executive officer for 2nd Battalion, 202nd Air Defense Artillery, commander of 1st Battalion, 131st Infantry Regiment, director Host Nation Support for 33rd Area Support Group, commander of Base Operations, Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, support operations officer and deputy commander of 108th Sustainment Brigade.
In recognition of his successful career and past duty assignments, Celletti awarded Anderson the Legion of Merit March 5, one of the U.S. military's most prestigious awards.
Now as Anderson retires, he said he's going to spend time with family. While he said it typically is not like him, he will take time to smell a rose or two and take in a few sights.
"I've gotten farther than I ever thought and I wouldn't trade any of it," Anderson said. "I am eternally grateful to an organization that gave me an opportunity. The guy walking out the door is better than the guy who walked in."
Anderson will celebrate his retirement April 27 at the Parke Hotel and Conference Center in Bloomington.


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Hey, I'm a junior in high school. I've always loved drinking tea when ever I ended up visiting someone who offered it to me but only recently did I start buying tea to enjoy in my own home. Beginning my junior year, I began to receive a lot of work. I started becoming very stressed. I needed something to help me cope with all this stress and I remembered how a great cup of tea would always bring relaxation to me. So I picked up a tea pot at the local teavana store and about 2 oz of some green tea and one botanical blend. I cannot remember exact type of tea but they were very enjoyable. I then one day mentioned that I enjoyed drinking tea to my English teacher and he told me about rishi tea. I decided to order the jasmine pearl green tea from rishi and from that day on I've bought most of my tea from rishi haha. I've never been disappointed by rishi's large variety of teas and drinking their tea has brought me to making an account on steepster. I'm always open to trying new teas and if anyone has any suggestions, I'd love to hear them.
New York


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I think I have uncovered a little glitch with the "tv_restorebrush" command. To make a long story short:
Code: Select all
tv_restorebrush animinvert 1
Other properties, such as
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tv_restorebrush size 50
Any insights?
TVPaint boards for technical support, requests and discussions about animation.
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tv_restorebrush animinvert 1
Code: Select all
tv_restorebrush size 50
It might be that.spyderheart wrote: ↑08 Mar 2018, 03:56The problem only arises in TVPaint Standard version. I've tested this with the Pro demo and it behaves exactly as expected.
A little further testing also showed that many, perhaps all, of the problems I've been posting in the George discussion board related to tv_restorebrush - do not affect the Pro version.
Hi David,spyderheart wrote: ↑13 Jun 2018, 17:47Could be related:
Can't decide which board this belongs in (George or technical) but I want to make sure the right people are reading it. I'm encountering problems in George that may point to larger, undocumented differences between 64-bit and 32-bit (maybe).
Thanks Sven. I got all excited about your suggestion thinking that must be it! But alas, results show otherwise. I tried both the following:Svengali wrote: ↑14 Jun 2018, 00:25Be sure you use tv_BrushRestore NOT tv_RestoreBrush. ( I only work in TVPaint Pro 11 64 bit so I can't really test if there is a difference in 32 bit or standard but I think the optional command tv_RestoreBrush may be handled differently in the 32 and 64 versions or the standard and Pro versions.) If you run a test and find a difference (or even if you don't find a difference) in how the two versions of the command are handled... please post your results.
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tv_restoreBrush animinvert 1
tv_brushRestore animinvert 1
I'll have to look through this one a little more thoughtfully. Something is clearly broken - but if we can know exactly how it is broken, we can account for it in george.Svengali wrote: ↑14 Jun 2018, 00:25In the Tool:Custom Brush panel, the Anim parameter window permits you to set THREE! different parametric catagories!
1. how the AnimBrush displays: None, Once, Start&Once, Loop, Ping-pong, Random, Random&Loop, Start&Loop, Random&Hold, Fade
2. set an aspect of stylus functionality: Pressure, Speed, Direction, Tilt, Twist, Azimuth, Altitude
3. set or unset the AnimInvert parameter which affects the chosen stylus functionality.
Unfortunately, mixing all of these setting options through the ANIM parameter gets confusing - for example, you can wind up with the ANIM display showing -None, or -Ping-Pong in which a minus sign really makes no sense. When you set Stylus functionality, you cancel display of the active ANIM parameter. Confusing to say the least, though in effect, the previous ANIM parameter remains active (I think).


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Premium status is when the ads are highlighted and shown on top of free ads in . This promotes more rapid sales. The duration of the option in days:30
This option allows to attract the visitors attention on you ads. Background of your ad becomes highlighted. The duration of the option in days:30
This function moves you ad once on the top of the you category and the main page too.
Any individual or business who meets Jobiba's Listing policy and Terms of Use can opt for Jobiba's Premium Listings.
Premium ads help you make your ad more visible, reach out to more consumers and sell your product or service faster.
To opt for a Premium ad, you need to first start posting your ad on Jobiba. As part of the Post ad flow, you will have an option to either post your ad as a free ad or a Premium paid ad. At this stage, you can select for a Premium ad option.
There are 2 types of Premium ads: Top of the page ad and Urgent + Top of the page. An Urgent + Top of the page ad gives you a top position on the respective category page while also providing you with a star on your ad. Top of the page ad gives you the same position but without the urgent banner
All Premium Ads are easily recognizable.
Top of the page ad: As the name says, they appear right at the Top of each category's ad results. They are further highlighted in blue for increased visibility.
Urgent + Top of the page ad: They are indicated by a green star before the title and have all the other advantages of a Top of the page ad
You will see these symbols on the browse page, View ad page and in your My Jobiba section.
Currently, we offer 3 modes of payment options for Premium ads:
You can choose either of these options to pay for your Premium ad. More details about these are part of the Post Ad process on Jobiba.
All ads on Jobiba stay on site for 90 days as long as they meet the Listing Policy and Terms Of Use of the website. All Premium ads currently whether Top Of Page or Urgent stay as a Premium ad on the website for 30 days. And after the first 30 days they continue to be active on the site for another -30 days as a normal ad. ( Not in a premium position )
All Premium ads go live to site after 24 Hours of the ad being posted. However, in case you opt for a payment option by cheque, your Premium ad will get active on the website only after the cheque is encashed by Jobiba.
Yes you can check your Premium ads as well as edit them when required from My Jobiba.
No you cannot. That would be misleading and would not be very helpful as the ability for relevant consumers to see your ad in the right category would be lost. Thereby losing all the benefits of the Premium ad position. You may also be penalised by Jobiba for doing so.
Yes, in the first 5 days after your Premium ad goes live on Jobiba, you can edit your Premium ad through the Paid ads section in My Jobiba.
Yes, you can continue to post free ads on Jobiba.
Yes, you can renew your Premium ad after 30 days.
Listing Fees for your Premium ad are NOT refundable, except in the instance of deletion of the ad by Jobiba at the time of review (within 24 hours of it being posted) due to violation of Listing Policy/ Terms of Use or miscategorization of the ad. See Premium ads fees.
Hope the above information has been helpful in better understanding how Jobiba's Premium ads work. If you have any other question or need any help, please write to us at info @ Jobiba.com and we will get back you soon.


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Marlins are not planning to deal Stanton
The Marlins have no intention to trade their All-Star right fielder. According to a source, the slugger pretty much remains untouchable, at least for 2013.
Miami has Stanton under club control for one more season before he is eligible for arbitration, and he won't have the necessary service time to become a free agent until after the 2016 season.
Currently, the Marlins are not in discussions with Stanton's representatives regarding a long-term contract.
Despite being limited by injuries to 123 games, Stanton finished second in the National League in home runs with 37. He's belted 93 home runs in 373 games since being called up in June 2010.
The Marlins are finalizing a blockbuster deal that will send Josh Johnson, Mark Buehrle, Jose Reyes, Emilio Bonifacio and John Buck to the Blue Jays. In return, the Marlins will receive Yunel Escobar, Adeiny Hechavarria, Henderson Alvarez, Jeff Mathis and prospects Justin Nicolino, Jake Marisnick and Anthony DeSclafani.
Stanton, who turned 23 last Thursday, expressed his frustration via Twitter on Tuesday after learning of Miami's pending trade with Toronto.
"Alright, I'm [ticked] off!!! Plain & Simple," Stanton tweeted.
Tuesday's trade removes about $160 million of base salary commitments off Miami's books.
Although the trade is unpopular in South Florida, the Marlins are restructuring and are hopeful they've added pieces for a better future. Also, they've created payroll flexibility.
Stanton's role with the organization magnifies now as he has become the face of the franchise.


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Med tech in hepatitis C case pleads not guilty
32 patients infected with same strain
A traveling hospital worker accused of stealing drugs and infecting patients with hepatitis C through contaminated syringes has pleaded not guilty to the charges in New Hampshire federal court.
David Kwiatkowski, whom prosecutors describe as a "serial infector," was indicted last week on multiple charges of tampering with a consumer product and illegally obtaining drugs.
Kwiatkowski only said "yes" when asked in court Monday if he understood his rights. Trial was set for the first week of February.
Until May, Kwiatkowski worked as a cardiac technologist at Exeter Hospital, where 32 patients were diagnosed with the same strain of hepatitis C he carries. Before that, he worked in 18 hospitals in seven states. Patients in Arizona, Georgia, Kansas, Maryland, Michigan, New York and Pennsylvania have since been tested for hepatitis C.


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Endress+Hauser Temperature+System Products, Nesselwang
Competence center for temperature measurement, temperature engineered solutions and system products
Endress+Hauser Temperature+System Products is a leading global supplier of temperature measurement, temperature engineered solutions and system products. The company employs about 680 associates worldwide, approx. 380 of whom at our headquarters in Nesselwang, Germany. Local production and service divisions in Pessano (Italy), Greenwood (USA), Suzhou (China), Aurangabad (India) and Benoni (South Africa) guarantee customer proximity.
Managing Director
Harald Hertweck
Year of foundation
Founded in 1872, since 1976 member of the Endress+Hauser Group
Number of employees
About 680 worldwide; about 380 in Nesselwang (Germany)
Information for visitors
Visitor parking
Building accessibility: Infrastructure for people with impaired mobility
Charging station for electric cars (22 kW, type 2 charging socket)
- Production
- Endress+Hauser Wetzer GmbH + Co. KG
- www.ehts.endress.com
- 87484 Nesselwang
- Germany


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Materials for cut out hearts: x-acto knife, cardstock (or business card), pencil or pen, scissors, wrapping paper, cutting board, secondary color paper (I chose glitter scrapbook paper)
Step 1: Make a template of a heart on a business card and cut it out.
Step 2: With a pencil, use your template to trace around it all over on your wrapping paper. Use a ruler if you want them evenly spaced. (I used a Sharpie in this tutorial so you can see the trace better).
Step 3: With your x-acto knife, cut around one side of the heart from the top to the tip of the bottom.
Step 4: Fold the heart over.
Step 5: Because the glitter paper was so thick I cheated and cut out a strip of paper to line along the backside of the kraft paper gift wrap. If I were to make it super nice I'd probably line the back of the kraft paper. But, then again, I probably wouldn't.
Step 6: Tape it down.
Step 7: Repeat on all the hearts.
OK, the second one is similar to last week's polka dot wrapping. But this time you do a little sculpting.
Materials: scissors, x-acto, pen, wrapping paper (I used red art paper instead), stamp pad (white can be hard to find, here's my recommendation from Amazon)
Done! Tell me those aren't the easiest things you've seen?! And you have all the materials already, right?


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People like to think about the life of archaeologists as a very adventurous endeavour. They are right, except that in my experience is has mainly to do with extreme logistics, rather than dark dungeons and holy relics.
Two weeks ago, I had started thinking about what to write in my Day of Archaeology post. I was already in Gortyna, Crete, to study ceramic finds for my PhD. I spent my days in a sunny and dusty storage building, classifying and drawing late Roman and early Byzantine potsherds. Something very normal. No adventure involved, but still I was in Crete, one of the most amazing places I have ever been. Every day looked the same, with the exception of Sunday (afternoon). Occasional excitement for a few cooking pots, a painted jug. "Fun" counting and weighing sherds one by one, trying to develop new ways to assess depositional history. Not so different from what they told us last year from Knossos, just one hour of driving from Gortyna.
Then, on Tuesday 19th June 2012, ten days ago, I got a phone call. THE phone call. The phone call that turns my life upside down. And my 29th June 2012, Day of Archaeology, became totally different from what I had imagined.
I was being hired as museum assistant at the Ministry of Culture in Italy. A permanent position. Il posto fisso, as we say in Italy. If you think of Italian bureaucracy as a slow and inefficient monster, you have to adjust your views, drastically. I was asked to be in Rome in a few days to sign the contract. I had to leave Crete in less than 24 hours. Pack half of my stuff, and leave the other half there, together with my car and tons of potsherds waiting to be studied. Poor Alessandro, who was with me in Gortyna, moved to Athens instead of spending two weeks alone in the Mesara. I am lucky, and I have some good friends in Rome. I spent 5 days in Rome waiting to sign the contract. I went to two international conferences, visited the Soprintendenza office where ArcheoFOSS took place only two weeks ago, attended the Baptism of a friends' baby and met many friends. That's the adventurous everyday life of an archaeologist in Rome.
On Monday 25th June, I signed the contract it the magnificent Ministry headquarters palace. And I took a train from Rome to Genoa on the same day. On Tuesday, I did my first working day, at the office of the Soprintendenza per i Beni Archeologici della Liguria, waiting to move to my destination: the archaeological site of Albintimilium, close to France. The place where Nino Lamboglia started his pioneering study of (Late) Roman pottery more than 60 years ago.
And so comes my Day of Archaeology. At the office, making phone calls to organise my stay in the Riviera di Ponente, speaking with new colleagues, taking instructions on the tasks I will be doing next week, joining the trade union and above all trying to get an idea of what is happening to my life on the day of my 29th birthday.
Day of Archaeology this year is on my birthday http://t.co/CI76hAoX #dayofarch
— Just married (@stekosteko) May 13, 2012
In my 10 years doing archaeology, I've seen that you never know what is going to happen and you have to be always prepared to change strategy to follow your path. It is true, archaeology is adventure, and you cannot turn it off.


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Sony STR-DA5200ES AV Receiver
No Baloney
After a recent price drop, the Sony STR-DA5200ES sells for $200 less than the $1,500 Pioneer Elite VSX-84TXSi receiver I reviewed a few months ago. Sony's "ES" designation is roughly comparable to Pioneer's "Elite" moniker, and the two sit at the top of each company's line. While you can get many of the same basic features in a less expensive receiver, the 5200ES is a flagship product whose quality and extra content is commensurate with its stature.
The Sony offers seven channels at 120W each into 8 ohms with two-channels driven full range (see Specifications for more details). There is video switching for three HDMI (1.2a) and three component sources. Digital doesn't get shorted either, with four optical and three coaxial inputs – and that's above and behind the digital audio signals available via the three HDMI inputs.
When it comes to the newer audio codecs available on HD DVD and Blu-ray, everyone wants to be certain that their receiver can handle them. And the Sony can. In spite of the fact that the Sony receiver will not accept and decode a Dolby TrueHD bitstream directly (Onkyo's latest receivers are among the first of those that will), that doesn't mean you can't enjoy these soundtracks today with the Sony. Most (but not all) current Blu-ray and HD DVD players have the ability to transcode Dolby TrueHD (but not DTS HD Master Audio) to multichannel PCM, which can then be sent to the Sony over HDMI. Alternately, such players can decode TrueHD and send it to the Sony as 5.1-channel analog via the receiver's 7.1-channel analog input.
Besides the obligatory AM and FM tuners, Sony takes XM radio seriously. Pony up the $13 monthly XM subscription, pick up a XM mini-tuner on your own dime, and the 5200ES offers an interface and 32 programmable presets to hurry you on your way to poorly compressed audio, with a heart. I have DirecTV and get XM as part of my premium package, so I didn't try this. Besides, at low levels XM may be fun, but quality-wise, it's not even close to my iPod, much less a CD.
One great feature from my perspective is Sony's inclusion of a good, quiet phono stage and an analog direct mode to take advantage of it. Sure, it won't put Audio Research or Conrad Johnson out of business, but the fact that it is there could be the deciding factor in many audiophile-gone-wild decisions.
If you're into multi-room setups, the 5200ES can separately source and output to three zones. Sony even includes a second remote for zones two and three. Interestingly, this second remote cannot even control the volume in the primary zone, so forget about digging it out if the main remote goes missing. The back panel features separate 12VDC triggers for each of the three zones as well. Zone 2 offers a single composite video and stereo analog audio, while Zone 3 skips the video.
If you're only going to use five of the seven amplifier channels in your main listening room, you can use the "Amplification Relocation" feature to program the surround back channels as speaker outputs for zone two. Or, if you zone out when people start talking about zones, you can use those two extra channels to bi-amplify your front channel main speakers instead. Bet that woke you up!
What's missing? For one thing, the on-screen menu, or Graphical User Interface (GUI), is inconsistent depending on the source and the output. It works perfectly (if turned on) while watching a component source upconverted to HDMI. Changes in volume and surround settings are shown on the screen when you attempt any change. The screen goes to about one quarter brightness while making the change, with a dimmed image of the source behind the OSD.
But the OSD doesn't appear at all when component sources are viewed via the Sony's component output. In fact, if you change the volume, the screen goes black for several seconds (well, mine did, on the plasma) but I still had sound.
Finally, with an HDMI source (the type of source most of you will want to use in your home theater), the GUI will appear, but when it does it completely mutes the video and audio from the source. You can still change the volume and see the volume bar graphic, but you can't hear the program while it's happening. Also, with HDMI sources, you must reengage the GUI every time you want to use it, but this is not a problem, because you won't want to.
Around Sound
The Sony 5200ES economically stacks all its surround modes, and there's a slew of them, on just four buttons on the remote. But the OSD doesn't track surround mode changes, so you have to rely on the front panel of the 5200ES to see what mode is engaged. The first button is used to select either 2 ch mode or, when pressed with the shift key, Analog Direct. In Analog Direct mode, the subwoofer is not engaged.
Another button is used for a number of proprietary music modes. Some are interesting for few seconds, most are harmless, a few are annoying, and some are truly offensive.
The Movie button cycles through a few custom settings mimicking some of the movie dubbing stages at Sony Studios, like the "Cary Grant," whoever he is (okay, so I admit, I'm just trying to make myself appear younger). These proprietary movie modes weren't heavy handed like some of the music modes and you might enjoy playing with then, say, the next time your significant other makes you sit through another Kate Hudson movie.
A button marked A.F.D. (Auto Format Detect) is the fourth of the surround selection controls. In its A.F.D. setting, it automatically detects and decodes digital formats such as Dolby Digital and DTS. But press the button repeatedly and you can cycle through Dolby ProLogic, Dolby ProLogic IIx Movie / Music / Game, DTS Neo: 6 Cinema / Music, Multi-Stereo and Neural Surround if the source signal is analog. All of the A.F.D. modes were appropriate in their own way. One oddity – the ProLogic modes will take advantage of your subwoofer, while the DTS Neo: 6 modes, in Sony's implementation, will not.
And if you connect headphones, the Sony will give you access to standard two-channel and simulated surround. How well Sony's proprietary "Headphone Theater" compares with Dolby Headphone is a subject for another reviewer, but the fact that there's something here for apartment dwellers is a gas.
Def Jam
As I began working on this review, I was using an older Fujitsu plasma TV equipped with a DVI input. One of my sources is my DVR. I ran an HDMI connection from the DVR to the Sony, and an HDMI to DVI adapter cable to the plasma. With this arrangement, the Sony would not reproduce the digital audio carried on HDMI from my DVR. I even requested and received a second sample of the receiver, but to no avail. Because of the various hand-shakes required of both HDCP and the HDMI implementation (in its many versions) it is impossible for me to say what piece of equipment was at fault, but I didn't have this problem with the Denon 4806CI receiver using the same TV.
To get around the problem, I ran a separate optical cable for audio from my DVR to the Sony. Later, when I upgraded my plasma from a 2004 model to a 2005 model, which allowed me to use HDMI from start to finish, audio from the Sony over HDMI was restored.
One caveat to using a separate digital cable: SPDIF coaxial and optical digital outputs from Blu-ray or HD DVD players cannot transmit any of the new high resolution movie soundtracks, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master Audio. With an optical or coaxial connection you will hear a standard (and lossy) Dolby Digital signal in its place [at a slightly-higher-than-DVD 640kbps bitrate- Ed.].
Sony's approach to routing digital audio inputs (coaxial and optical) and component video through the receiver is, shall we say, incomplete. You'll have to plan your cabling well, using the nearly indecipherable table on page 96 of the owner's manual as your only guide. Not all the physical inputs can be assigned to any or all of the sources. For instance, digital audio on optical input 2 can only be assigned to the video 2 source, while optical input 4 can be assigned to any of four sources. In short, the programming seems unnecessarily hobbled.
Video Processing
The Sony 5200ES incorporates Faroudja DCDi processing. It can upconvert and transcode 480i analog video (composite, S-Video, and component) to HDMI at 480p, 720p, 1080i, or even 1080p. It will also transcode 480i composite video or S-Video to component video at 480i. But it will only upconvert analog video sources to a component output (to a maximum resolution of 1080i) if they are not copy protected. Copy protected analog sources cannot be upconverted to a component output. High-definition component sources are, however, passed through at full resolution.
The Sony will not scale HDMI digital video sources at all. Such signals merely pass through the receiver. That's apparently still the realm of more expensive receivers like the $4,000 Denon 4806CI, which does everything except churn butter. But HDMI sources like high-definition DVR's and HD DVD and Blu-ray players provide their own scaling, so this missing feature may not be worth what it would add to the receiver's price.
While the receiver includes some of the video processing and switching ability I would want on my wish list, it doesn't offer everything. It will down-convert component video signals to either S-Video or composite (for example to feed your 2nd and 3rd zones or a small monitor), but it won't down-convert digital video signals from HDMI sources to any of the analog domains.


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The Humvee Ranger Vest by CampCo offers a simple and comfortable way to carry photo accessories, camping supplies, and other items in the field. Made from breathable, 100% cotton, the vest is light-weight and comfortable to wear all day. A unique stow-away hood can easily be deployed to protect you from the elements. Heavy duty zippered pockets add security for your wallet and personal effects and touch fastener pockets provide quick access to lens filters, snacks, and other at-the-ready items. Perfect for campers and photographers alike, the Humvee Ranger Vest by CampCo is available in a variety of colors and sizes.
|100% Cotton
|Lightweight field vest with stow-away hood and mesh ventilation on the back
|Number of Pockets
|9 Exterior + Multiple Interior
|Type of Closure
| Vest closure: Heavy duty zipper
Pocket closures: Zippers and Touch Fasteners
|Packaging Info
|Package Weight
|1.2 lb
|Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
|20.0 x 14.0 x 0.1"


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Product 7/19
Ballroom dance shoes can be so blazé. Why settle for your typical satin black, nude and copper strappies when you can add a little edge to your step when you hit the hardwood? The new Dance Depot Ballroom shoe designs are fun, chic, sexy, unique, funky, coquette, elegant and stylish. They've decided to think outside the ballroom dancing shoe fashion spectrums box and have come up with an array of styles and designs to suit your own individual personality and flair. Lets face it, Latin dance shoes can help put any outfit together. A little black dress stops being just a little black dress when paired up with the right pair of stems. Add a red Salsa dance shoe or maybe one with a little sparkle and that outfit goes from hot to HOTTER! Traditional Salsa shoes just dont possess the flair and sex appeal as a pair of skyscraper-high Louboutins or the intriquette details of a pair of Manolos. Dance Depot is the next generation of Latin dance shoes! Please note that all of our Latin dance shoes are designed with suede soles and are available in American sizes. For this pair of shoes, order delivery time is approx. 3 weeks. Receive FREE shipping on this item for U.S. customers only!Ladies Adult Shoe Sizes USA4.555.5 6 6 .57 7.5 8 8.59UK2 2.53 3 .54 4.55 5.56 6.5 Europe34353535.5,3636.5,3737.53838.53939.5Japan21.522 2222.52323.5242424.525
Ladies Adult Shoe Sizes


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Ground cover
Ground covers come in all shapes and sizes. There are short ones that grow only several inches high and tall ones that may be several feet high. The commonality is that they all spread quickly to cover the ground. Ideal conditions will speed things up. Don't expect miracles in poor soil. From perennial ground covers to grass like covers, you will find a large selection of low growing ground cover plants here at Sunlight Gardens. Browse the various plants that we have and find the perfect addition for your garden today.


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I swear I am going to start a series about this. I was already done with my post for today and was in the process of having breakfast when I heard one of the stupidest things on TV, "So what are the dos and don'ts are around a cheetah?"
A Florida woman was mauled by two cheetahs, she was attacked in a sanctuary for big cats. Just like when Roy got attacked by his tiger I was not surprised that a wild animal attacked someone.
Wild animals have that little adjective attached to their name for a reason. To domesticate an animal it has to happen for many, many generations. Even now an Alaskan Malamute that has been trained its whole life to live around cats can switch to instinct mode the day it sees one dart by and it WILL kill it. That is what their DNA has programmed them to do, that is how they do not die of hunger… they have the instinct to kill to eat.
I was not even as annoyed when the zoo keeper that was being interviewed was saying that she felt very safe right next to a cheetah. If she wants to believe in her false of sense of security, that is cool by me. But when the stupid questions was asked I had to laugh. What are they doing for the viewers here, providing a service just in case you happen to walk into a cheetah cage? I am sure that would be the last thing in your mind if you happen to fall into a cheetah enclosure at the zoo.


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WASHINGTON – The "legacy thing" may be harder than Barack Obama imagines.
Beginning his second term, Obama has a focused, though unstated, agenda: to achieve presidential greatness in the eyes of historians and Americans. In this, he will almost certainly fail. He is already a historic president as the first African-American to be elected, but there is a chasm between being historic and being great.
Presidents are ultimately judged not by their total record, or by their ability to enact their agendas, or by their popularity. They are judged by whether they get a few very big decisions right or wrong.
Lyndon Johnson is mostly remembered for failure in Vietnam; it overshadows the passage of two landmark civil rights bills and approval of Medicare and Medicaid.
Richard Nixon is not celebrated for creating the Environmental Protection Agency, expanding food stamps or opening talks with China; Watergate dwarfs all.
These appraisals are made while a president is in office and, more definitively, after he's left. Does a president's performance stand the test of time based on what happens later? Did his policies advance or retard the nation's well-being? Were they wise or simply expedient?
Depending on the answers, much else can be forgiven or forgotten, as Robert Merry shows in his engaging book "Where They Stand: The American Presidents in the Eyes of Voters and Historians."
Consider Harry Truman. For his last year in office, he was deeply unpopular. His approval rating hit a low of 22 percent. The Korean war frustrated Americans; the White House was accused of cronyism.
Yet, historians rank him in the top 10 presidents. Merry relates Truman's reaction to the Soviets' 1948 overland blockade of Berlin "to starve out the city [and] bring it under the Soviet yoke." His top advisers had concluded that U.S. withdrawal was inevitable. To which Truman responded: "We stay in Berlin. Period." The Berlin Airlift followed.
"That decision helps explain why Truman is ranked so high by historians," writes Merry. With hindsight, many momentous choices seemed correct: ending World War II with atomic bombs ("saving perhaps a million American lives," argues Merry); adopting the Marshall Plan and the policy of "containment" against the Soviets; desegregating the military.
Every school child knows the three "great" presidents: Washington, Lincoln and Franklin Roosevelt. They topped the first presidential ranking by historians in Life magazine in 1948. They've topped six subsequent rankings elsewhere.
Through no fault of his own, Obama will not be joining them. The first requirement of presidential greatness is that the country faces a mortal peril: something that puts the America experiment — its embrace of freedom and equality, its trust in democratic institutions, and its belief in itself — at risk. The great presidents have all defused that risk.
In 1789, no one knew whether the constitution would survive; Washington's stature inspired loyalty that gave the system permanence.
Lincoln's single-minded pursuit of total victory over the Confederacy — when many in the North, discouraged by the endless bloodshed and inconclusive combat, wanted a truce — saved the Union and ended slavery.
Roosevelt preserved the nation's democratic political values and institutions in the face of an economic collapse that gave rise, from left and right, to calls for radical change; and, of course, he presided over victory in World War II.
Obama will be denied a similar opportunity because, for all the nation's serious problems, none yet rises to the level of mortal peril. Obama's reputation will necessarily be less exalted.
He is probably fooling himself if he thinks Obamacare, by itself, ensures him a spot close to the top in the presidential rankings. Medicare and Medicaid (far larger insurance expansions) didn't do that for Johnson, so why should a lesser achievement do it for Obama?
Indeed, if the implementation goes badly (coverage overestimated, costs underestimated), Obamacare could backfire.
Still, Obama's enthusiasm for it is telling. Even without the 2008-09 financial crisis, he would have arrived in office just when the retirement of baby boomers was slowing the economy and raising — through Social Security and Medicare — government spending. The cost of government was increasing; the capacity to pay was decreasing. In these circumstances, Obama chose to expand government. His frame of reference was backward-looking: the fulfillment of a liberal agenda conceived from the 1930s to the 1960s.
But history's verdict will be present-oriented and forward-looking. How have his fateful decisions played in the real world?
Obama's reputation will ultimately depend on a handful of these, including (probably) his handling of the economy in the dark months of early 2009, Iran's nuclear program, the federal budget and, perhaps, something now unimagined.
"Crises demand leadership," writes Merry, "and in the American system that leadership can come only from the president." Not just leadership, but leadership in the right direction.
© 2013 Washington Post Writers Group
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Views Reviews Interviews is an accessible summary of the Merdeka Jubilee Architecture Symposium, not "too dry and long for many", but extending beyond the formal confines of a programme booklet of the event. It attempts to document some of the most significant buildings of the past 60 years. It also attempts to capture the spirit of the various eras through views reviews and interviews of some of the participants. It is supplemented by images, cuttings and extracts from newsletters, magazines and the like in archives. This publication is loose and multi-layered. It is intentionally so, as a structured compilation or a complete history of the 60 years of architecture in Malaysia is a massive undertaking and beyond the scope of this publication. The idea for this publication is that of a 'snack book'. The book is not a complete meal of starter, main course and desert but snacks to be picked and savoured randomly without having to go from start to finish. It attempts to respond to our electronic age where images, posts and articles are fast and momentary, but one can like an image or a post and may be enticed to return later for more about the topic and even to look for the source document to complete the reading. Through these samplings and assortments, one may have a flavour, if not the spirit of the period.
There are many themes and stories in this publication. The underlining theme and story is that of a community of architects, a dedicated and tenacious community of architects who respond to the circumstances and opportunities of their times and pour their energies in the development of their profession and their architecture; taking Malaysia from 1957 to 2017 and Beyond.
This book includes a CD A Conversation with Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad on the Occasion of the Merdeka Jubilee Architecture Symposium.


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Dr. Kirby McGill is a Nebraska State Licensed and Certified Professional Counselor with over 35 years of private practice.
He has completed specialized training in Hypnosis from the American College of Hypnotherapy, Menningers Mental Health Institute, and the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis.
He is Internationally Certified in Clinical Acupuncture and uses a unique combination of Hypnotherapy and Chinese Medicine to help clients achieve lasting results.
Dr.McGill also presents motivational seminars, self-improvement workshops, sales and personnel management skills for major companies and organizations. He has conducted Hypnosis Demonstrations throughout the United States and Canada.
For more information on any of these topics, please call 402-393-0544. You may also request price quotes or more information for private sessions by sending us email.