text:
"The first golden rule of honey is to get to know your beekeeper." So says Kim Flottum, author of multiple books on beekeeping, honey-making and gardening for pollinators.
Flottum and other experts will be on hand Friday through Sunday, Sept. 7-9, for the Morton Arboretum's Honey Bee Weekend, a festival celebrating all things bee.
Flottum will offer two presentations, "Growing a Pollinator Garden," Saturday and "Honey Brunch 'n' Learn" Sunday. The first provides food for thought for those wanting a bee-friendly garden; the second gives food for the stomach for those who want to taste honey paired with complementary edibles such as fruit and cheese.
Flottum recommends a good relationship with a local beekeeper, typically found at a farmers market or local farm stand, if you want to obtain truly delicious honey.
"Honey bought in the store is good honey, but it's been heated and filtered," he says.
The excessive processing in store-bought products breaks down the complex mix of aromatics, flavors, water and enzymes that comprise a tasty honey.
There are different varietals of honey, each expressing the unique combination of flowers from which the bees took their nectar. Flottum notes that if he "puts his bees in a 500-acre orange grove," for example, he'll get a delicious orange blossom honey. To obtain specific flavors, beekeepers will put their bee hive boxes in areas where specific plants are flowering. At the Morton Arboretum, honey made from linden trees is popular.
The best honey, Flottum says, is that which is closest to the bees' own product. Bees convert nectar, which is roughly 80 percent water and 20 percent solids, into honey that has an inverse water-to-solid ratio by fanning the liquid to evaporate the water and mixing with enzymes that help make the honey stable. The beekeeper's job is mainly to keep the bees healthy — not an insignificant task given the many threats such as pesticide use and habitat loss.
Herein lies an opportunity for home gardeners to make their gardens more bee-friendly. "Plant lists are easy to obtain," Flottum says of typical prescriptions for pollinator gardens, "but you have to make efficient use of your space."
He recommends planting in "three dimensions," taking into account the various heights and blooming times of different bee-attracting plants. It's not "just a row of marigolds," he says, but advises thinking in terms of blossoming trees, shrubs and flowers for season-long attraction.
Among the exhibits and products offered at the arboretum's Honey Expo this weekend are wines and other foods and drinks made of honey. Mead, a honey-based wine, is the perhaps the oldest fermented beverage in the world, according to Greg Fischer, apiarist and owner of Wild Blossom Meadery and Winery.
Fischer, who says his is the only meadery in Illinois, asserts that mead is "becoming much more mainstream." Everyone thinks mead is sweet, he explains, but "mead can be dry or sweet." Fischer maintains hives on Michigan Avenue atop the Marriott Hotel, in the Ogden Dunes, in the Kankakee dunes, and in the Beverly area of Chicago. Each has a different flavor: the Beverly honey is more amber, the Kankakee honey is darker and more intense.
Mead is often made with mixtures of honey wine fermented with fruit, called melomel. Typical fruited meads include strawberry, raspberry and apple cinnamon. Fischer even makes a honey wine made with hot chili peppers, called capsumel.
Fischer makes a good case for drinking mead. To create one bottle of mead, bees will pollinate one to two million flowers, each of which goes on to produce 10 to 20 million seeds. So in the interest of sustainability and a greener earth, consider drinking more mead!
In days of yore, only kings and aristocrats could afford mead. Lore had it that the queen would bear more sons if she drank mead, hence every castle had its meadmaker to promote more heirs. Tradition also said that a bride and groom should drink mead for one lunar cycle — hence the term "honeymoon."
Both Fischer and Flottum agree that honey is perhaps the one food that will never go bad. The enzymes present in honey thwart microorganisms that might otherwise cause food to degrade. While Flottum cautions that "forever" is too strong a word for honey's shelf life, he does note that honey in jars from the ancient pyramids have been found virtually preserved.
The arboretum's Honey Bee Weekend offers classes, samples, demonstrations, competitions, hikes past the arboretum beehives, and lots of activities for kids. Visit the arboretum website, mortonarb.org, for details and prices.
Ÿ Cathy Maloney is a writer for the Morton Arboretum.
Copyright © 2013 Paddock Publications, Inc. All rights reserved.


text:
Well I made the Candy Corn Alphabet activity with a cute little box found at JoAnn Fabrics and the Halloween Rhyming game with plastic discs found at Michaels Craft Store; I just couldn't leave out my other favorite craft store- the Hobby Lobby. While on my shopping trip with my daughter in the "big city" of Lansing, we stopped by the Hobby Lobby and found these cute little foam aliens. I thought they'd be perfect for a Halloween-themed math center activity. Okay– there is some assembly involved, but aren't they so, so cute? There are a total of 30 aliens! The directions for assembly are on the pdf which you can download for free.
This is what the package looks like.
Click the following link to download this FREE pdf Monster AdditionAlien
I asked my fabulous artist, Kyle, to whip up a few cute little monsters. I have to say I'm lovin' that adorable one-eyed red monster. I hoping to use him in another Halloween-themed activity. The Monster Addition game is great for practicing math facts to 20.
Click HERE to download the Monster Addition activity from my TpT store
A few months ago I posted the Classroom-Sized Monster Sight Word Game Board. There are 220 monster feet with words from the Dolch sight word lists 1-9. Place the feet around your classroom for a giant game board!
Click HERE to download the Classroom Sized Monster Feet Game Board
I love my job. I really, really do! One of the favorite parts about my job is that I get to network with a whole bunch of very talented teachers. I love hearing about and seeing them implement creative strategies to improve student learning. During the past several years, many of our local school districts have focused on improving writing instruction. All of our schools, from elementary to high school, received training in the Collins Writing Program. In addition, teachers were able to participate in other inservices such as the 6 Traits of Writing to enhance their instruction in this area.
My good friend and colleague, Michelle (same job, just different schools) came back to our office one day so excited to share what she had seen in one of the first grade classrooms she visited. She was so impressed with the quality of writing and the independence displayed by this classroom of first graders during their writing time that she just had to bring back the tool the teacher used to show us all. Sue, a first grade teacher, uses "focus sticks" to help her students develop and assess their own writing. The focus sticks are placed in a cup in the center of the table. After completing their writing, the students use a focus stick to check to be sure their writing includes the pictured elements. The icons placed on the sticks serve as cues. Below is a stick that Sue uses during the beginning of the school year.
During whole group instruction, she has explained and modeled the expectation for each icon.
Click the following link to download these focus stick icons Focus Sticks Level 1
As the year goes on, and as each student progresses in the writing process, the icons on the sticks change depending upon the expectations. So, here is another stick that Sue uses as her students advance.
You can see in this focus stick, she has incorporated three of the six traits: ideas, voice and sentence fluency. Of course she has provided instruction in those areas before introducing the icons on the stick.
Click the following link to download these focus stick icons Focus Sticks Level 2
When appropriate, Sue transitions the students from the use of the focus stick to a written rubric.
Not all students use the same stick at the same time. Some students may be working on the skills contained within the initial focus stick for a long time while others quickly move to the second stick and then to the written rubric. For our struggling students, removing icons is always an option. For example, for one student, the goals of a writing assignment may be to use correct letter sizing and to draw a picture to match the text.
You can also cut the icons out individually if you'd like to focus on specific skills.
To make your own focus sticks you will need large craft sticks (I color coordinated my sticks, but it is not necessary), wiggly eyes (I used 25mm, but any size will do), full size Avery labels and cups. The amount of materials will depend upon how many sticks you wish to make.
1. Print the desired pdf of the focus stick icons on the full size Avery labels and cut along the dotted lines.
2. Center the icons on the stick and fold over the edges.
3. Using a hot glue gun, glue the wiggly eye at the end of the stick. Here's a trick… put the glue on the stick, hold the stick upside down and push the wiggly eye up on the stick. This way the wiggly eye will wiggle. If you push the eye down on the stick, the black wiggly touches the glue and won't wiggle (tragic, I know).
4. Adhere the sticker on the cup.
I've included a classroom set of posters which corresponds to the icons on the focus sticks for use during instruction as well as reminders for students as they are writing.
Click the following link to download all classroom sized posters Writing sticks Posters
If you'd like more information on the 6+1 Traits of Writing, the book is awesome!
A few months ago, my good friend Keri from the Sweet Life of Teaching was preparing for a training that she was about to offer. On the table was a roll of vinyl chalkboard paper (I've never seen or heard of it until this time). As she was describing what it was and how she uses it in her classroom, I was literally getting goosebumps. You can purchase the paper in single sheets, but Keri loves it so much, she purchased a whole roll! Whoever invented vinyl chalkboard paper is a genius. This product is so versitle… from using it to label bins to creating activities…it is awesome! The paper can be cut into any size (just like contact paper). You, or your students, write on the paper with liquid chalk. Once dried (pretty quick), it'll stay on until you use a small amount of water to wipe it off. Just think… how about using it to label bins, cubbies? You can keep the label on the cubbie and when you have a student move, simply wipe the name off and it'll be ready for any new student who make walk through your door.
I knew eventually that an idea for using it within an activity would pop into my head. It happen last week with the "Build It-Write It" activity. To make this activity, you'll need the following materials: printed cards, vinyl chalkboard paper, liquid chalk, fine point black Sharpie marker, and 24 square counting tiles. The cards will need to be laminated so if you do not have access to a laminator, you'll also need clear contact paper. Here's how to create the activity.
1. Print the pdf file on cardstock.
You will get 28 cards for building Consonant-Vowel-Consonant words
You will get 12 cards for building CCVC/CVCC words
Click HERE to download your free Build It-Write It cards
2. Laminate or cover the cards with clear contact paper and cut along the dotted lines.
3. I tend to use red colored tiles for vowels and another color for consonants. If you choose to do the same, using your black Sharpie marker write vowels on the red counting tiles and the following consonants on the other color(s): 2- b, c, d, f, g, h, j, l, 2-m, n, p, r, s, 2-t, v, and w.
4. Now you'll need to cut your vinyl chalkboard paper. Cut 28- 1″ x 3″ and 12- 1″ x 4″ rectangles. I am a scrapbooker so I use my scrapbooking cutting tools. You can certainly use scissors.
5. Simply peel the back layer from the chalkboard paper and adhere it to the cards.
For this activity, your students will first build the word using the tiles and then write the word below using the liquid chalk. Be sure to differentiate this activity by choosing how many tiles and cards are used. This activity is a great activity for use during small group instruction or as an activity in your literacy centers.
I have not yet found the vinyl chalkboard paper in stores so your best bet is to order it online. Here are the links to the products used with this activity: Vinly chalkboard paper- sheets, Vinyl chalkboard paper- roll, liquid chalk, and square counting tiles.
Be sure to pay, Keri, over at the Sweet Life of Teaching a visit. She has great DIY ideas for the classroom!
Two kids away at college and the other at a birthday party. What's a mom to do? Go SHOPPING! No mall for me, though, just a quick jot over to the Dollar Tree and a stop at Walmart for wiggly eyes (super cool project for an upcoming post). While at the Dollar Tree, I found these adorable Frankenstein sippy cups. They were practically jumping off the shelf into my hands begging to be made into a project. So here's what I came up with.
The activity is phoneme segmentation activity where students name the picture, segment the sounds ("ant" /a/ /n/ /t/) and place the picture in the correct cup with the number of sounds (2, 3, or 4). To make this activity you will need 3 sippy cups (if you can't find Frankenstein, pumpkins will work fine too), 15 pipe cleaners (can use popsicle or large craft sticks) and your glue gun.
1. Print the following pdf on card stock and cut out the pictures.
Click the following link to download the pictures for this activity Phonemic Awareness Halloween Activity
2. Glue a number on the top of the plastic straw.
3. If you choose to use pipe cleaners, double-up the pipe cleaner 3/4 the way down. I only chose to use pipe cleaners because I had them on hand (and the colors matched). Craft sticks would work just as well.
4. Place glue on the top of the pipe cleaner and adhere the picture.
It's always fun to put a holiday twist on your small group activities. I think the students are going to love this one!
My teacher friend, Deb, has a super easy (and cheap!) way of making privacy screens for the students in her classroom. She simply purchases boxes from our local Office Max and cuts out one side. So easy! Deb says these privacy screens are durable and they are the perfect size. The students can still see her as she is providing directions (other screens are too high) and they fold up nicely and are easy to store. Upon Deb's direction, students get up and get a privacy screen from the box and quickly set it up. I love it because it makes for a quick and easy transition so instruction can begin right away.
I know what some may be thinking…these boxes may look a little plain, you might want to "cutesie it up" a bit. Just remember that students typically use privacy screens when taking tests or doing work which requires concentration. I love it that the boxes are simple! That means there's less distractions.
You'll want to be sure to purchase the correct box size.
Ever since posting the DIY tactile letters, I wanted to create templates to make tactile words for the first three lists of the Dolch 220 sight words. I'm such a believer in a multi-sensory approach to teaching that, despite the amount of time they'll take to make, they'll be so worth the effort! Once made, they should last you for years.
So, this is what you'll need for your project: 1. Adhesive Outdoor Tread. I purchased this tread at my favorite home improvement store–the Home Depot in the paint section. 2. 9 sheets of 3 different colors of 12×12 cardstock (scrapbooking cardstock found in most large department stores). 3. Clear contact paper if you do not have access to a laminator.
To make your tactile sight words, follow these simple steps:
1. Print the pdf with the sight word templates and the letter templates and cut them out.
2. Mount the sight word templates on the colored cardstock and cut them leaving a border around the template. I use my scrapbooking tools, but scissors will do. You will be able to get three sight word templates on a 12×12 cardstock. I color-coded my lists. For example, list one was mounted on green, list two on blue and list three on red.
3. Laminate or cover each mounted template with clear contact paper.
4. Gather the letters for the word on the card. Turn over/flip the letters for the word on the backside of the tread and trace around the letter with a fine point Sharpie marker.
5. Cut the letter from the outdoor tread.
6. Simply peel the paper off the back of the tread and adhere on the template.
Well, that's about it. Pretty easy to make. These tactile sight word cards will make a great addition to your small group intervention toolbox. One helpful hint…you'll want to have some Goo-Gone on hand to clean your scissors after cutting the tread.
Click the following link to download your pdf file of the sight word templates for lists 1-3 of the Dolch 220 Sight Words. Templates for the Tactile Sight Words

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Hi: 7° Lo:3° 7 day
A DELIVERY driver died after sustaining major injuries following a serious road crash near Pinvin.
Inderjit Singh Ojalae, 45, from Pinvin died after the Ford Transit van he was driving in collided with a cement lorry travelling on the B4082 towards Upton Snodsbury on Saturday (November 24) at about 5.20pm.
Mr Ojalae, who was driving along Long Lane, was thrown from his vehicle when the van and lorry collided on the crossroads where both roads meet.
He was confirmed dead at the scene by paramedics. The driver of the lorry was unharmed and managed to release himself from the cab which was left on its side in a near ditch.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: "Crews arrived to find a lorry and a van that had been in a serious collision. The van was on the road with extensive damage and the lorry was on its side in a ditch.
"The man driving the van had suffered multiple serious injuries, and unfortunately, it quickly became apparent that nothing could be done to save him, and he was confirmed dead at the scene.
"The lorry driver had managed to release himself from his vehicle that was in the ditch before the emergency services arrived. He was checked over at the scene but declined further treatment."
Police are urging witnesses who saw the collision to come forward as soon as possible.
PC Lee Bluck said: "So far we do not have any independent witnesses to the collision, so Mr Ojalae's family have given consent for his details to be released earlier than usual to encourage people to come forward.
"Mr Ojalae, who was temporarily living in Birmingham but was until recently a Pinvin resident, was working as a sub-contractor for Yodel and was delivering in the area when he was involved in the collision.
"I would urge anyone who saw the collision to contact the police immediately. We also need to speak to anyone who saw either the cement lorry or Mr Ojalae's Yodel van in the area before the crash occurred."
Anyone with information should call police on the non-emergency number 101 or information can be passed
1 Youngster raises funds following Philippines disaster
2 Fears raised following further bridge delay
5 Town MP hits out at proposed salary rise
STAFF at an Evesham playgroup which cares for
PEOPLE of all ages are set to get
THERE was plenty of brewing and creative fun
PRESSURE is being put on the Government to
IT WILL soon be easier for families to stay close ...
PLANS outlining the £5 million refurbishment of Stratford leisure Centre ...
OFFICERS from British Transport Police have released CCTV pictures in ...
AS WE get ready to launch the Worcester Observer next ...


text:
Foreword. Sir Frederick RussellBone, Q. (2005) Foreword. Sir Frederick Russell. Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom, 85 (3). p.433. ISSN 0025-3154 Full text available as:
DOI: 10.1017/S0025315405011379 Official URL: http://journals.cambridge.org/action/displayJournal?jid=MBI AbstractThis special issue of JMBA papers on the gelatinous plankton is dedicated to Sir Frederick Russell, Director of the Plymouth Laboratory of the Marine Biological Association from 1945 to 1965 and pioneer in the study of gelatinous plankton.
NMBL Staff Only: edit this record |


text:
Next, you'll be asked to connect with Twitter. Rest assured, we will never send a tweet from your account without your permission.
We will send you an email with an invite soon.
Microsoft starts clearing first-generation Surface units with giveaways, discounted models for developers by @alex
Sony reportedly mulling proposal to spin-off its movie and music units to aid electronics division by @thekenyeung
PC shipments post steepest decline ever in Q1 2013, down 13.9% year-over-year to 76.3m units by @epro
See what's Trending Now for @TheNextWeb
Follow @TheNextWeb on Twitter


text:
URL: http://www.desy.de/research/facilities/regae/index_eng.html
Breadcrumb Navigation
REGAE is a joint project of the CFEL partners Max Planck Society, University of Hamburg and DESY. The approximately ten metres-long facility will generate highly coherent ultra-short electron pulses to carry out time resolved structural investigations of crystallised materials and possible push the boundaries to in situ studies of liquids, surface and solution phase chemistry on the nanoscale. In the same way as scientists shoot light from storage rings or in free-electron lasers at materials to deduce the molecular structure from the diffraction patterns, these experiments are also possible with electrons. In this respect, there is a long history of complementarity between X-ray and electron probes. This facility offers a new tool to explore systems that is best suited for nanoscale materials due to the short penetration depth of electrons relative to X-rays.
Time resolved structural investigations
In terms of time resolution for tracking atomic motions, REGAE will produce electron bunches with only about 10 femtoseconds length (one millionth of one billionth of a second), thus allowing experiments with an extremely high time resolution. The diameter of an electron bunch is half a millimetre; the length however is only one fifth of the diameter of a hair. When the electrons hit the object of investigation, they are diffracted by the molecular structure of the sample. The angles of diffraction – a measure for the interatomic distances in the sample – are measured with high precision with an innovative CCD detector. This experimental method is comparable to the one of a transmission electron microscope.
Dwayne Miller (CFEL), head of the project, enthusiastically says: "With our newest developments in the production of intensive electron pulses lasting only femtoseconds, REGAE will enable direct observation of the movements of atoms at this time scale – molecular movies can now capture all the actors (i.e. atoms), even the very fastest, in full motion!"
REGAE has an electron source built similar to that one in FLASH, but working with a radio frequency of 3 Gigahertz. The electron bunches, each filled with an amount of electrons a thousand times less than in FLASH, are accelerated to a total energy of 5 Mega electronvolts (MeV) and packed tightly together with a special accelerating unit: a so-called buncher cavity accelerates the particles at the end and slows down those in front of the bunch. The optical laser which triggers the electron bunch in the source can be used simultaneously to excite the sample, allowing so-called pump-probe experiments.


text:
Rte. 102 to be reduced for shoulder repairs
MISSISSIPPI COUNTY, MO (KFVS) - The Missouri Department of Transportation says Route 102 will be reduced to one lane while crews peform shoulder repairs.
This section of road is located between County Road 521 and County Road 518.
Weather permitting, crews will be working Wednesday, Jan. 30 from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
MoDOT says the work zone will be marked with signs. Drivers are urged to use extreme caution while in the area.
For additional information, contact MoDOT's Customer Service Center toll-free at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (1-888-275-6636) or visit www.modot.org/southeast.
Copyright 2013 KFVS. All rights reserved.


text:
5 BR/4.5 BA Luxury Villa, 52" Hdtv, Pool, Hot Tub, Gamesroom!
- Minimum stay:5 nights
- Internet:Yes
- Pets considered:No
- Wheel chair accessible:No
Cumbrian Lakes house description
Located in the upscale gated community of Cumbrian Lakes, our luxurious villa provides amenities to satisfy even the most discerning visitor. The villa consists of a 52" Sharp Aquos HDTV in the main family room with HD programming. A 42" TV is in the main master bedroom and 32" LCD TV's in the other rooms.
Our villas back onto a conservation area providing additional privacy for our guest. Our private pool, hot tub and bbq provided all the outdoor amenities required by vacationers. An outdoor eating area along with numerous lounge chairs complete the the all inclusive pool area.
An XBOX 360 and PlayStation are provided to occupy the kids while the adults relax poolside under the shaded Lanai. Free wireless internet, a computer with broadband internet and free long distance calling lets you keep in touch with family and friends back home.
The prestigious Cumbrian lakes is ideally located for any Disney visitor. Disney World is only a short 12 minute drive away. Hwy 192 with is many popular restaurants, attractions and shopping are only a 2 minutes drive.
Our beautiful home was built in 2004 and consists of 2600 sq ft to ensure plenty room for all. The villa consists of 2 floors with the main master bedroom upstairs and two master bedrooms on the ground floor. All master bedrooms have full en-suite bathrooms and there is a shower and washroom which is accessible from the pool.
Keywords: House
Property Type
- House
Accommodation Type
- Vacation Rental
- Non Smoking Only
- Children Welcome
- Pets Not Allowed
Bedrooms: 5 Bedrooms, Sleeps 12, Beds for 10-12
Bathrooms: 4 Bathrooms, 1 Half Bathroom
Kitchen & Dining
- Cooking Utensils
- Kitchen
- Microwave
- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator
- Washing Machine
- Clothes Dryer
- Air Conditioning
- Linens Provided
Other Amenities
- Over 300 Channels, Over 40 HD Channels
- Pool Table
- Foosball
- Video Games
- Video Game Console
- Stereo
- Satellite / Cable
- DVD Player
- CD Player
- Computer Available
- Telephone
- Wireless Internet
- Free Long Distance
- Broadband Access
Pool & Spa
- Private Pool
- Hot Tub
Outdoor Features
- Outdoor Grill
- Lanai / Gazebo
- Deck / Patio
- Swimming
- Shopping
- Restaurants
Write a review-
Spacious, Well Maintained Home
Spacious, Well Maintained Home
- Guest Marcus A. (London)
- Date of stay 10/15/12
- Review Submitted 05/01/13
This villa was perfect for what we needed. Plenty of space, clean and well maintained. Kitchen had everything we needed and we spent many hours outdoors in the pool area (paid extra for pool heating which was worth it). Would recommend.Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0
A True Home Away From Home
A True Home Away From Home
- Guest leslie s. (New York)
- Date of stay 04/01/13
- Review Submitted 04/30/13
My family and I stayed in the Villa the first week of April and although disappointed with the weather (far too cold for my liking!) we were thrilled with the accommodation. With two young children, the house had everything we could ask for and more. It seemed as though the owners really put in a lot of thought in what they left for the guests to use (e.g. nightlights in every room, rainocoats for disney outings, stroller, xbox etc). The house was in very good condition and looked as thought it had been recently painted. The kitchen had everything we needed from pots and pans to strainers and tupperware. The BBQ outside did need to be ignited with a match as the ignition switch did not seem to work but made home meals quick and easy. The pool area was clean and even with the cool weather we were able to swim thanks to the heating which made it feel more like a warm bath! The hot tub was also enjoyed during our stay. Overall we could not have asked for a better house in a better location and we will definitely be returning again!Recommended for: Sightseeing, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, families with young children, girls getaway.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0
Avoid this house
Avoid this house
- Guest Steve (Clinton, CT)
- Date of stay 03/23/13
- Review Submitted 04/22/13
My family (myself, my wife, my son, my daughter-in-law and our granddaughter) had the misfortune to have rented this house from 3/23/2013 through 3/30/2013. This is the third house that we have rented in the Cumbrian Lakes development in the last three years and it is BY FAR the worst house of the three that we have rented. The house is in an overall poor condition. It is obvious that the owners have not properly maintained the house since they purchased it several years ago. There are numerous stains in the carpets throughout the house. The kitchen is poorly equipped. We had to buy a frying pan so that we had a usable pan that we could cook with. Since there were no pool toys, we had to purchase some, so that our granddaughter had something to use in the pool. The pool was so poorly heated (even though we paid to have it heated) that we were seldom able to use it. We couldn't use the hot tub because of a heating problem and the fact that it had a serious leak if you tried to use it. There were no pool towels or wash clothes. The lanai had a small round plastic table and only four chairs. The starter on the gas grill didn't work and there were no utensils for the grill. The lanai like the rest of the house was poorly equipped. The so called game room was a joke. The dart board was unusable because there was a box of broken darts, that were unusable. There was one bent pool stick which made it impossible to use the pool table. The only good thing about the house was its location and that is only because the owners could not affect that by their overall neglect. My family and I would recommend that any potential renters select one of the many beautiful homes in Cumbrian Lakes and stay away from this "POORLY MAINTAINED AND EQUIPPED HOUSE".Owner response: It is obvious the below renter had unreasonable expectations and consisted of an impossible family to please. As owners of the property we went out of our way to accommodate the renter yet they continued to be rude, and left a one sided review with multiple omissions and falsehoods. Seven Star Villa has been available for rent for over 3 years and we have yet to receive a negative review on any of the multiple sites we advertise on. We have full time management team which ensures the property is properly cleaned, maintained and re-stocked after every guests' departure. The carpets are routinely inspected and steam-cleaned. When the owners made us aware that the frying pan was non-functional (it had a loose handle) we immediately arranged to drop them a brand new one the very next morning in addition to additional towels and wash cloths. The kitchen is very well equipped as the previous reviews have attested to that fact. Pool Toys are not provided with the villa as is pretty much the norm with vacation villas due to hygeneic reasons as they tend to develop mold in short period of time. It is a common fact that there is only so much a pool heater can accomplish when the outdoor temperatures dip in the 50's during March. The heater is an above grade model functioning well and in combination with the pool blanket heats the pool to a very functional level. The hot tub had developed a minor leak form the previous renters but was still fully functional and only required a top up of water before turning on. This was mentioned to the guests prior to their arrival. The Lanai is well stocked with a dining table and chairs and multiple lounge chairs which the reviewer conveniently fails to mention. The gas grill is fully function and a grill lighter is provided to start the BBQ. The games room is nicely equipped with foosball game pool table with multiple cues and chalk. Seven Star Villa strives to accomodate all our guests needs and requirements. We continually maintain and update all facets of our home and have employed an experienced management team to address the concerns of our guests. We welcome you to visit our villa and assure you an enjoyable and pleasant stay, guaranteed!
Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/1
Well Maintained Home
Well Maintained Home
- Guest skp (Canada)
- Date of stay 07/24/10
- Review Submitted 07/13/11
Really enjoyed my stay here in your villa. Villa was well kept and maintained. Excellent location. Close enough to disney with maintaining your own privacy. Home has a lot of higher end amentiies. Will definitely be back! Thank you!!Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, families with young children, girls getaway.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 1/1
nice house in good condition in good location
nice house in good condition in good location
- Guest shamu fan (toronto, ontario)
- Date of stay 08/13/10
- Review Submitted 08/26/10
stayed in this house Aug. 2010. The location is good. The house is well appointed, the kitchen had everything, (including a baking sheet and a non-stick pan that was not scratched). Lots of room, with three seperate common areas, plus kitchen and pool, so could be seperate from each other without having to hide in bedrooms. Six bathrooms seems excessive, but better then too few. It was very clean, and the pool and property well maintained. The pool was nice, as was the seperate hot tube. The pool backed onto trees, so only two neighbours, one with a privacy fence, so really private. Overall a perfect house for a visit to the mouse and shamu, and fully recommend it.Recommended for: Sightseeing, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/3
Dates | Nightly | Wknd Night | Weekend | Weekly | Monthly * | Event |
Base Rate 5 night min stay |
$149 | |||||
This owner accepts: Credit cards.
Always make sure to call the number on the listing to confirm payment details. Only pay using credit card, PayPal, check or direct bank transfer. NEVER pay by cash or instant money transfer services such as Western Union or MoneyGram. Learn more
Don't forget your vacation protection! Get protected now
Adding our Vacation Protection services can make sure your getaway goes smoothly, no matter what. We offer Cancellation Protection, Carefree Rental Guarantee, and Damage Protection so you can truly relax.
Owner info
Year Purchased: 2009
About the owner: We reside in Toronto, Canada and being frequent visitors to Orlando we finally decided to purchase our beautiful home in 2009. We have therefore furnished our home with all possible amenities and ensure it is continually well maintained as it is primarily for our own use.
Why the Owner Chose Cumbrian Lakes:
Cumbrian lakes is located 10 minutes away from Disney and right off all the attractions of Hwy 192 including restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Cumbrian Lakes is a gated community providing security and safety to all guests and visitors.
Contact us
- Primary: 9057370275
Links to more information:
- CLICK HERE - Visit our Homepage
- Click Here to see All My Rental Listings
5 Bed. 4.5 Bath Luxury Villa Cumbrian Laxes
Private Pool backing onto Conservation Area
Computer with Broadband Internet, Wireless Internet, Free Long Distance Calls
Cumbrian Lakes Gated Community
Master Bedroom 1
42" Plasma in Master Bedroom
Master Bedroom #2
Bedroom 3
52" HDTV Plasma with HD Programming
Pool Table, Foosball, Dart Board
Relax in our Hot Tub
Propane BBQ with 4 grills and Side Hot Plate
Full Service Kitchen
Dining Room
Outdoor sitting area
Community Park
There have been visitors to this page since
the counter was last reset in .
This listing was first published here in 2009.
Date last modified - Thursday, November 14, 2013


text:
Immediate needs
People with newly aquired disabilities, whether through illness or accident, will often need short-term changes made to their accommodation to enable them to return home whilst longer-term plans are being made for their care and support.
The Access Consultancy has a great deal of experience in developing sensitive, appropriate and cost effective short-term changes for this purpose.
Contact us through Bush & Company Rehabilitation and Case Management services.


text:
The Seminoles return four starters on offense, most significantly quarterback Drew Weatherford, who earned freshman All-America honors in 2005 after breaking Philip Rivers' ACC passing yardage record for first-year signal callers. Weatherford completed 276-of-469 passes for 3,208 yards with 21 total touchdowns (three rushing) and 18 interceptions – a number he will look to lower in 2006. Weatherford's passing yardage was the third-best in FSU single season history behind only Chris Weinke (2000) and Thad Busby (1997).
Coaches had hoped to get fellow sophomore Xavier Lee some extensive time this spring, but shoulder surgery will likely keep the talented QB on the sideline until August practices begin.
With Lee on the shelf, Christian Ponder will get a taste of big-time football right off the bat. Ponder graduated from Colleyville (Texas) High School early and arrived in January. Walk-ons Tommy Keane and Jared Whipkey will also get their fair share of work behind center.
The absence of Lee is not a favorable aspect of spring training for the QBs. It will be important for one of the other QBs besides Weatherford to step up and hopefully for all to avoid injuries.
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Spring Practice Outlook: QB
Posted by tallynolefan at 8:33 AM
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)


text:
South Carolina Coastal Homes
Somerset Point on Lady's Island embodies all that makes a community great. New homes, on spacious lots, are available on or near the water or close by in the wooded interior. The community consists of 120-acres of land. Some of the most beautiful waterfront lots are available along the Coosaw River at some of the most affordable prices. At Somerset Point you will experience more open space, and minimal commercial activity in the residential areas. It's an ideal place to invest in a new home, to raise a family, and to enjoy every day.
The Area
New Homes in Hilton Head, SC
People looking for new homes in the Charleston, SC area are choosing the Lady's Island area. With its natural beauty, moderate climate, affordable lifestyle, and close proximity to Hilton Head, people from all over the world are claiming it as their new home. Beaufort, SC has the best in shopping and dining, state-of-the-art medical facilities, churches of all denominations and excellent public and private schools and colleges. Somerset Point provides you with a home that fits your lifestyle and your personality. Somerset Point at Lady's Island is perfectly situated between historic Charleston, South Carolina and progressive Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.
You will enjoy quick access to major commuter routes, a world class school system in the Lady's Island school district, and all of the activities and charm of Beaufort. Some of the area's best boating, golf, fishing, and parks await you. It's all part of Lady's Island style of low country living.
South Carolina Coastal Homes
We offer homebuyers a variety of unique floor plans that can be adapted to your preferences. Home features include Hardwood Flooring throughout main living areas on first floor, Corian countertops with 8″ double-bowl stainless steel sink, 1-2 Car Attached Garage, and Garden tub/ shower combo in the Owner's Bathroom. The attention to detail, such as crown molding throughout the main living space, and Manor House Builders' signature archways in our homes must be seen to be appreciated.
At Manor House Builders, our goal is to build your home so you can really call it your home. We want your personality and lifestyle to reflect in every detail. We offer a large selection of options to complete your home with your own style. Come explore the sophisticated charm of the top new homes Beaufort, SC has to offer!


text:
…under the proviso of something comfy to sit on and an unending supply of painkillers.
See, I've been avidly watching the Occupy movement happening over in the States and I'm crossing my fingers that it will take off here. The government here, much like many others, are only interested in you if…this was too long too put in a reply, sorry! but that's so awful. my mom has fibromyalgia and a couple of other associated pain disorders and has had to deal with a lot of similar problems here in the states with health benefits and all of that. she has pre-existing conditions so she can't get health insurance, and to qualify for disability she would have to be out of work for what adds up to two entire years before she would actually see any money. it's depressing that there are so many of the same kinds of problems there as there are here. so much for governments giving even the slightest shit about their countries' citizens, right?
first off, i'm sorry about your mum. it's a shitty illness and it's made even shittier by the fact that there is nowhere near enough cash going into research for treatments and cures.
they don't give one tiny bit of a shit - and that's the problem. they seem to have this messed up reverse robin hood thing going on where they want to conserve all of the wealth for themselves and leave nothing for everyone else. the problem is, where do they think all of their luxury items are going to come from if the working people just down tools and tell them to go fuck themselves? honestly though, i am under no illusion that we are slightly more privileged than folk in the states - the poverty problem there is even worse than ours, largely thanks to (thank fuck) the NHS (that the government are attempting to dismantle as we speak despite protestations to the contrary but that's a whole other post) - if it wasn't for free healthcare, a lot of us would be even more fucked than we already are. i genuinely couldn't live in the states. i'd be broke and on the streets within a week. As feeble as the gesture was, i have to give kudos to obama for acknowledging the Occupy movement - i think people probably need to bear in mind that he's often tried to put valid legislations through that would help people in bad positions but he's been opposed and barred by the stranglehold that the GOP currently have over the house. I know Occupy has no political affiliation but that's just a fact. He's a lesser of two evils, in my opinion.
as i said earlier, EVERYONE should be entitled to free or affordable healthcare. that isn't a 'socialist' thing, that's a human thing. EVERYONE should be entitled to a little help when the shit hits the fan. Without exception.
(via camembertlylegal)


text:
Photo by Nelson Sigelman
Bill Damora of Oak Bluffs and Point Pleasant Beach, N.J., shot 48 of 50 targets to win the 2012 Martha's Vineyard Rod and Gun Club Skeet Championship on Sunday.
With a slight rain and a warm breeze filtering off Segekontacket Pond, Bill defeated class 'B' winner Brian Reed and Class 'C' winner Brian Welch to defend his 2011 skeet title.
The club's annual pistol championships will be held on Saturday, October 6, from 10 am to 3 pm at the Rod and Gun Club's target range off Third Street in Edgartown. Members and non-members are welcome to compete. Refreshments will be available throughout the day.
Reader Comments
- When posting a comment you agree to our Terms of Service
- If you have questions about comments or comment policy, check out our FAQ page.


text:
Proud Plumage
The collections were awash in brilliant jewel-tone colors¿rich magentas, emeralds and blues¿enough to make a peacock proud.
— Apr 7, 2008
Trends: Stark Trek
Designers offered an austere tale anchored in streamlined architectural shapes and savvy geometrics.
— Apr 7, 2008
Velvet Scope
This fall, velvet is the fabric of choice for cool girls who can slip into everthing from racy dresses to sleek, sexy pants. Here, Christian Cota's silk and...
— Apr 2, 2008
Best Foot Forward
Mario and Kristi Yamaguchi may be making all the right moves on "Dancing With the Stars," but fall's short, shimmering party dresses are already winners.
— Apr 1, 2008
Thinkable Fashion
Designers create collections in a language all their own. But when it comes to the customer, what is lost in translation?
— Mar 24, 2008
She's Gotta Have It
Dresses have had a good run, but tailored separates and knitwear are ready to eclipse them for fall in the bridge and contemporary markets, in a season...
— Mar 13, 2008


text: I am very amateur at CSS, but I have managed to fumble my way around a lot of things. One thing that is still beyond me is how to move the metadata (published by Chris on .... 2 comments .... ) from where it currently sits on top of the post right below the title, to the BOTTOM of the post. Can anyone help??


text:
Regarding all the adverse feedback on the Rock of Ages movie, I do not understand all the harsh reviews on Tom Cruise's performing, Russell's comedian capability, and this film as a whole. The film was intended for a excellent goofy time. A fun loving therapy of '80s rock, nothing serious or anything. It's depending on a Broadway musical, for crying out loud. Tom Cruise performed a bona-fide rockstar incredibly well and his singing was a complete shock to everyone. He nailed all the music he sang and seemed better than many of the performers you listen to on the radio stations nowadays. Russell was very funny and I just think the individuals that bash him in common are too enclosed in their own way of residing and cannot get previous the bias they have study in the determined press. Provide the individuals some credit ratings. This film was really fun and the rather obtuse feedback I've seen sailing around the WWW got me frustrated.
I had such a boost at the films, performing along to the music and type of hoping that I was one of the leads. It was so much fun! Go see it if you really like the 80's.
It had been three years after the successful release of "Kimmy Dora: Kambal sa Kiyeme" featuring the one and only EUGENE DOMINGO, with more than 50 thousand pesos box-office earnings. And now, the Go Dong Hae(s) are returning, to create you chuckle, cry and now be terrified!! "Kimmy Dora And The Temple Of Kiyeme" already marked 10 thousand pesos box-office earnings on its starting day (Star Cinema) and still doing well in the smash hit market despite the risks from international movies also proven in movie theater national.
As a fan, I think this is one of Uge's best shows in a movie ever ( in addition to Ang Tanging Ina sequence and Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank and other assisting roles). Walang makakatalo sa kanya. She is one of the well-loved and well known stars of this creation and she should get it all. Her ability is invaluable. Undoubtedly, she's one of the biggest stars in the market these days. From head to toe, she's a celebrity. Umaarte bawat hibla ng buhok niya hanggang sa mga kuko sa kanyang mga daliri sa kamay at paa. Representing two (or should I say 3?) different tasks in one movie is not simple as an acting professional (unless you are Uge) but Eugene's nailed it. I'm trying to think about how did they capture the movie. How many 'takes' did it take before they could complete a landscape with Kimmy and Dora. Cheers to her twice as well. HAHA!


text:
Corona's Dual Wheel Grass Edger model UT 21,000 creates a crisp, clean edge by quickly cutting through shaggy grass alongside paths, sidewalks and driveways. The edger features:
• Durable 48" wood handle
• Self-sharpening 6" blade with an adjustable depth gauge
• Wheels have wide, dual treads designed specifically for better traction and easier handling on concrete
UT 21,000 Dual Wheel Grass Edger
From Corona Clipper
UT 21,000 Dual Wheel Grass Edger
Product From Corona Clipper
Expand for more details on this Product
- Product From Oregon PowerNow
Oregon PowerNow says patented gear-drive technology gives its second-generation ST275 Trimmer/Edger 50% more torque for more powerful cutting.
- Dual-line cutting head and flip-down edge guide make it a true 2-in-1 trimming and edging tool
- Product From Northern Tool + Equipment
Powered by a 200cc Honda GX engine, the NorthStar Edger/Trencher is designed for installing irrigation systems, underground cable and wiring, and for general landscaping.
- Dual belt-driven
- Three-position adjustable blade depth
- Product From Shindaiwa Inc.
Shindaiwa says its LE242 edger makes it easy to leave a perfect edge, every time. The lightweight two-stroke engine and unit balance are designed for comfortable operation.
- 23.9cc commercial-grade engine
- Product From RedMax
RedMax says the high-torque cutting capability of their edgers prevents stalling, which increases commercial operator productivity. The 25.4cc HEZ2650F features the Strato-Charged engine for lower emissions and higher output.
Oregon ST250 40V Max Trimmer/Edger
Product From Oregon PowerNow -
Oregon says its ST250 40V Max Trimmer/Edger features premium cell technology for long run time and fast, powerful cutting. An ergonomic, in-line design allows for comfortable use, and quick and easy conversion from trimming to edging.
20V Max Lithium GT Trimmer/Edger
Product From Positec USA - Worx -
The Worx 20V Max Lithium GT Trimmer/Edger features a squeeze-and-go trigger. This auto-feed trimmer/edger weighs only 5.3 pounds (with battery) and cuts a 10-inch diameter swath. It operates at a no-load speed of 8,500 rpm, driving the durable, braided, proprietary DNA2 spiral line (0.065 in, diameter) through grass, weeds and light brush. There's no fumbling with line changes. Worx features a quick-change, snap-in spool system and includes three free spools in every box.
- Product From Easy-Lift Products International
The Easy-Lift Harness is designed to make trimming, hedging and pruning with power equipment easy by reducing stress and fatigue on the operator. The Easy-Lift Harness can be used with an extended power hedger, power pole pruner, line trimmer or stick edger. It can lift up to 100% of these implements' weight.
- Product From RedMax
RedMax edgers are lightweight and efficient, yet tough enough to handle nearly any terrain. Advanced features include MaxTorque, a high-torque cutting capability that prevents stalling and increases commercial operator productivity.
- Product From Positec USA - Worx
- New 24V lithium-ion battery technology for up to 80% more runtime than 18V models
- Adjustable handle for maximum comfort and control
- Telescopic shaft adjusts to user's height and posture
- 100% automatic single-line feed for improved cutting performance
- Product From Brown Products Inc.
Brown Products says its BedEdger Bantam is a highly portable, lightweight machine.
- Define new beds and redefine existing beds
- Designed to neatly pile excavated dirt right next to the trench
- Adjustable depth of 3.5, 4.25 and 5 inches


text:
It's the Fourth novel out of the seven books J.K. Rowling has planned on writing. This book will take you on an adventure very much different from the rest. Harry has the chance to stay with the Weasleys, and even go to the Quidditch Cup Game, but there seems to be a secret being hidden from Harry and his friends.....but what? Harry soon finds the answer when he arrives at the mystical Wizarding school, Hogwarts.
Golden Book Award | Write Your Own Ending | Submit Your Book Reviews | Book Surveys |
Award Winning Books | Where To Find Good Books | Favorite Book Links | Permissions |


text:
Clinical Dermatology, An Issue of Veterinary Clinics: Small Animal Practice
By- Daniel Morris, DVM, MPH , UPENN School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
- Robert Kennis, DVM, MS, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, AL
This issue contains cutting edge information on the diagnosis and treatment of clinical dermatology. Topics will include pyoderma, antimicrobial resistance in Staphylococci, feline otitis, canine pododermatitis, diseases of the canine claw, scaling dermatoses of dogs, ischemic dermatopathies, cutaneous vasculitis, dermatologic indication for cyclosporine therapy, therapies for pruritus, and much more.
Published: February 2013
Imprint: Elsevier


text:
SEC. 45-35-7. Expiration; renewal; fees; records.
(1) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, each applicant for an original identification card issued pursuant to this chapter who is entitled to issuance of such a card shall be issued a four-year card. Each card shall expire at midnight on the last day of the cardholder's birth month.
(2) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, all renewal identification cards shall be for four-year periods and may be renewed any time during the birth month of the cardholder upon application and payment of the required fee.
(3) Any applicant who is blind, as defined in Section 43-6-1, upon payment of the fee prescribed in this section, shall be issued an original identification card which shall remain valid for a period of ten (10) years. All renewal identification cards issued to such persons shall also be valid for a period of ten (10) years.
(4) A fee of Eleven Dollars ($11.00) shall be collected for the issuance of an original or renewal identification card.
The Commissioner of Public Safety, by rule or regulation, shall establish a driver's license photograph fee which shall be the actual cost of the photograph rounded off to the next highest dollar. Monies collected for the photograph fee shall be deposited into a special photograph fee account which the Department of Public Safety shall use to pay the actual cost of producing the photographs. Any monies collected in excess of the actual costs of the photography shall be deposited to the General Fund of the State of Mississippi. Such fee shall be deposited into the State General Fund.
(5) Any person who, for medical reasons, surrenders his unexpired driver's license, and any person whose unexpired driver's license is suspended for medical reasons by the Commissioner of Public Safety under Section 63-1-53(e), may be issued an identification card without payment of a fee. The identification card shall be valid for a period of four (4) years from its date of issue. All renewals of such card shall be subject to the fee prescribed in subsection (4) of this section.
(6) The department shall maintain a record of all identification cards issued, except for those cards cancelled, surrendered or denied renewal.
SOURCES: Laws, 1988, ch. 570, § 4; Laws, 1992, ch. 370, § 1; Laws, 1996, ch. 322, § 1; Laws, 2001, ch. 535, § 5, SB 2959, eff from and after July 1, 2001.
PREVIOUS VERSIONS: Pre-2001


text:
About Blog
Try our unique site if you are willing to be part the group that is working on different kinds of social issues in Chile! The 5th Hell is waiting for you to join us!
Recent Posts
17 May 2013
There are many Ways to Help Solving Social Issues in Chile -
09 Dec 2012
Reasons to Dedicate Time to Social Issues -
10 Aug 2012


text:
Confronting disability with animation
01 Mar 2012 by iclover
Groundbreaking animation Punky is breaking new territory around the world, so is this the beginning of the end for the taboo that is disability in the arts? Melissa Johnson investigates.
A fantastical, imaginative medium that enthralls children across the world, animation has a huge impact on how children perceive life and their environment, through the educational singing, bright colours and moralistic messages found embedded in many cartoons.
The integrity and diversity of the many characters that have graced TV screens early on a Saturday morning have evolved over the years to incorporate a wide range of cultures, creeds, castes and ethical groundings. Where boundaries have been broken, animation has always been present in the dissenting crowd, its ingenuity a weighty thrust against the barriers of conservatism.
However, animation's character ident parade has so far largely overlooked one pretty sizeable section of society: that of the disabled – either physically or mentally – protagonist.
Other mediums, particularly Hollywood and the wider film and TV industry, have successfully tackled society's relationship with disability on a number of occasions. Notable performances by Tom Hanks in Forrest Gump, Sean Penn in I am Sam, Kristen Stewart in The Cake Eaters and John Malkovich in Of Mice and Men have eroded the taboo of actors of sound mind and body portraying individuals with physical and mental impairment.
Lifting the lid on a range of disabilities and disorders, the films that depict these issues reveal the complexities of disabilities, such as the autistic spectrum, and confront the misconceptions that commonly exist, leading to negative stereotyping of people and their disabilities.
Elsewhere in the arts, the main character of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time is heavily autistic, although the first-person narrative never uses the term directly, which proved a success in bringing the issues of autism and Asperger syndrome into the mainstream.
The benefits of raising the veil on disabilities, both physical and mental, are an essential lesson for preschool children upwards. Helping to curb prejudice, minimise bullying and victimising children with disabilities, the few animation producers that tackle the issue and integrate it into their characters and plot, are to be applauded.
Although speculations can be made whether certain popular cartoon characters display certain disabilities, such issues are seldom addressed directly in children's animation.
American/Canadian animated series Arthur has addressed disabilities such as dyslexia and Asperger syndrome, but only in its more minor characters.
But things mays soon change following the growth of Irish animation, Punky. The first in the world of its kind, Monster Animation's 2D preschool cartoon, created by Lindsay J. Sedgwick, is the first to feature a lead character with Down syndrome (DS).
The eponymous Punky is a six-year-old, fun-loving little girl who lives with her single mother, her grumpy grandmother named Cranky, her cool older brother Con, and her dog Rufus. The program portrays Punky's experiences, daily interactions and relationships, and how she takes in the surrounding world in her unique way.
Sedgwick contributed to the first series' story ideas, but Humf creator Andrew Brenner generated the bulk of ideas. Aimée Richardson, a 29-year-old Dublin woman who has DS, voices the lead character.
"Our aim was to make a great pre-school TV series for children dealing with diversity and disability," Monster Animation Producer Gerard O' Rourke exclusively told Imagine. "What we achieve is that our viewers don't see a show about difference, they see a main character who just happens to have DS and does lots of fun stuff just like them, and gets around certain incidents in her own way…we hope that they will equate DS with a person first and the disability second.
"Often diversity is handled in 'special programmes', and may be perceived to be for people with disabilities only.
"We wanted to stay 100 miles away from that format."
Charitable, not just commercial
The former CEO of Leading rights management company Target Entertainment, Alison Rayson, who has a son with DS, found a special connection with the show when Target brought the global distribution rights of the 20x7 series. Rayson hopes that preconceptions of the misunderstood genetic condition, which affects about 5.8 million people worldwide, will change, and that the quality of life for those with DS will improve.
"Children with down syndrome globally now have healthy, fulfilling lives in most countries. There are still countries, however, where a child with Down syndrome or any disability is marginalised and mistreated, and that is not acceptable.
"Our imperative with Punky is not just a commercial one for Target, but also a charitable one. We will be donating half of our sales commissions to Down Syndrome Education International, which pioneers inclusion at schools for all children with Down syndrome."
Although Punky is the world's first animation with a DS lead, in 2007 Aardman Animations teamed up with charity Leonard Cheshire Disability's (LCD) and created a highly original campaign called Creature Discomforts.
Adapted from stop-motion favourite Creature Comforts, the hallmark plasticine characters were reworked with disabilities, in order to create greater awareness of certain disabilities. As with Punky, the disabled characters and the plots in Creature Discomforts were voiced by disabled people who based the plots on their own experiences.
With the shocking figure that nine out of ten disabled people in Britain believe they are the victims of prejudice or discrimination (based on research carried out by LCD charity), the ability to portray a serious issue with humour has a huge impact on how people perceive disabilities.
Steve Harding-Hill, the campaign director at Aardman said at the time of production: "This new campaign is an important step towards changing everyone's attitudes towards disability. Working on it has been an amazing experience for us all at Aardman."
Global ambassador
Rayson spoke at the time of the first series launch: "we want Punky to become a global ambassador for DS and for all children with learning difficulties worldwide, breaking down old-fashioned and negative stereotypes and championing the joy of individuality."
Commissioning Editor for Young Peoples, RTÉ Television, Sheila de Courcy, said: "RTÉjr is delighted to be introducing Punky to audiences for the very first time. As Ireland's public service broadcaster, we strive to represent and reflect the diversity of growing up in Ireland in 2011."
O'Rourke seconded that vision, telling Imagine: "We wanted it to be shown among mainstream cartoons. It's not like a special show being shown at a special time. It'll be shown in among Dora the Explorer and Peppa Pig…Punky is not a Down syndrome person, but a person with Down syndrome. If we can pass this message to our next generation through Punky, then we have created a very worthwhile TV series."
The first series was launched in April 2011 successfully, with future hopes for a second series, "and maybe even a Christmas Special on the cards," said O'Rourke.
You heard it here first. We're still some way from characters with disabilities appearing merely as 'characters', but these are encouraging signs that we're heading in the right direction.
- Login to post comments


text:
Ladies and Gentlemen, we've done it again.
I know there were thoughts of "Oh, the sun's not out, Moja's not cooking anything up" or, "Oh, those lazy baristas, where the summer drinks at?" and even "Why oh why doesn't the Moj' have anything iced?" (Which is untrue, why would you think that? We make iced EVERYTHING except Capps… I guess thats the only thing we don't ice…)
But now, our crack team of coffee scientists have done the impossible. Three baristas at Moja have pooled their collective cafe experience to bring you the never-anticipated but much underestimated and never, ever duplicated:
Orange Maple Macc-Pops
Oh, you heard me the first time.
It's a one of a kind popsicle to be enjoyed by everyone, and inject a little summer into everyones… well, everyones lack of summer.
Fresh-squeezed Orange Juice, Cream, Double Espresso, and a dash of Maple Syrup. Frozen to a stick. Yours, for $3, while supplies last.
If they go over well I'll make a whole bunch of them and keep them around for the summer. Ben and I are going to make MochaPops this afternoon with a single spro, cream and chocolate. I guess Ben though the Macc-Pops were a little espresso-y for the uninitiated.. I dunno, I thought they were great. But chocolate is chocolate, and I don't want to deny people they're chocolate.
Anyways: Macc-Pops. Get while the gettin's good. Like… before the staff gets to 'em.


text:
Note: The concept of using Pinterest and Spotify to drive traffic to your website or blog was sparked when Dustin Williams shed light on Go Media's strategy of sharing Freebies via their Pinterest.
Spotify is by far, the application that I use most in my everyday life. It is with my while I work, while I drive, while I work out, while I hang out… It really is with me everywhere and I have no problem paying the monthly fee because I use it so much. Over time, I have made many playlists and listened to those created by others. These days, I find myself exchanging good playlists as a discovery vehicle.
Pinterest is also a great application. A pinboard for your life, it serves as such. As Pinterest evolves, more and more use cases emerge. I would like to introduce using Pinterest to drive traffic to your website/blog via Spotify Playlists.
The concept is simple: Music is engaging content that a user must interact with (hit the play button) in order to experience. For the play button to be hit, the user must visit your website or blog. Once user repins or likes, opportunities for more users (traffic) to engage increases.
1. Create Spotify Playlist
Log in to Spotify and drag desired songs into a playlist.
2. Get Embed Code for Spotify Playlist
Right Click on playlist and select "Copy Embed Code."
3. Create Website Page to Embed Spotify Playlist
I am using WordPress to create a page. Once you have created a page, insert copied embed code into page.
4. Publish Page and Screenshot Playlist
Save and publish your page. Once published, take a screenshot of just the playlist.
5. Place Screenshot Playlist Next to Embedded Playlist
Insert the image of the playlist into the page next to the current, functioning playlist. We will remove this later.
6. Create Pinterest Board for "Spotify Playlists"
Visit Pinterest and after logging into your account, create a new board for your Spotify Playlists.
7. Pin Webpage to Pinterest Board "Spotify Playlists"
Now it is time to pin your playlist. Pin the URL where playlist is located and select the image we placed next to the interactive playlist.
8. Spotify Playlist is now Pinned to Your Pinterest Board
You can now share your Spotify Playlist across Pinterest.
9. Delete Image from Webpage
Once you have pinned your playlist, don't forget to go back to your webpage and remove the image that we placed next to the interactive playlist.
You now know how to use your Pinterest Boards to share Spotify Playlists and drive traffic to your website or blog.
What ways do you leverage Pinterest in not so normal ways to drive traffic?


text:
Senator Ted Cruz raises an important point: "U.S.'s chief concern, if it goes into Syria, should be to make sure that chemical weapons do not fall "into the hands of al Qaeda or other terrorists"
Labels: Obama Foreign Policy, TedCruz
My new book - Dumbing Down the Courts: How Politics Keeps the Smartest Judges Off the Bench, You can click on the above picture to be linked to Amazon.
Welcome! Follow me on twitter at @johnrlottjr . Please e-mail questions to email@example.com.
Labels: Obama Foreign Policy, TedCruz
Sorry Senator, the beloved leader has determined that there will be no boots on the ground to secure anything anywhere.
Maybe with luck, they terrorists will not be able to find the instruction manuals. After all, this was our highly effective plan in Libya.


text:
Medical Disclaimer The anatomical and physiological information contained on this site is intended as general information only. It is not intended to replace the advice of health care professionals, or to be relied upon in lieu of the advice of health care professionals. If you suffer from neck or back pain and require treatment advice specific to your personal medical condition, Mediflow® Inc. recommends that you consult with a qualified health care professional. Trademark Information This is a current (partial) list of trademarks owned by IWI LTD., and under license to Mediflow® Inc. Any questions concerning the use of these trademarks or whether a name that does not appear on this list is in fact a trademark of IWI LTD should be referred to Mediflow® Inc., at the following address:email@example.com Those trademarks followed by ®, except as noted below, are registered trademarks of IWI LTD. Those trademarks followed by T are trademarks of IWI LTD. This is a partial list of trademarks owned by IWI LTD: Mediflow® Waterbase® The Pillow with Proof Copyright Information Copyright© 2007 Mediflow® Inc. 5-39 Riviera Drive, Markham, Ontario L3R 8N4, Canada. All rights Reserved. Mediflow® Inc. hereby grants to any person the right to display, reproduce, and distribute copies of this work subject to the following conditions:
Except as noted above, no right or license is granted under any copyright, patent, or trademark of Mediflow® Inc. or IWI LTD., to any other party. Information contained in this publication is furnished free of charge for use by persons at their discretion. Because conditions of use are outside of our control, Mediflow® Inc. makes no warranties, express or implied, and assumes no liability in connection with any use of this information.


text:
Use the below form to search The Bowes Museum Collections:
If you can't find what you're after take a look at our search tips
Collections > Furniture
A comprehensive collection of European furniture between 100 and 400 years old, displayed in fine panelled period rooms together with furnishings from John and Josephine Bowes' homes in France.
Child's Armchair
Child's armchair in oak. The back legs are square-sectioned, the front legs and stretchers turned. The front legs have a series of round holes about 3 cm. apart,... view details
China cabinet of carved oak in Louis XV style with door panel of glass. Height: 152 cm view details
Trinket Box
Trinket box veneered in rootwood with a painted panel on lid. The box has rounded corners and all sides are veneered in rootwood with a lozenge-shaped keyhole... view details
Music Stand
Music stand is made of beechwood, painted black and gilded. The music rest is shaped in the form of a lyre, with brass 'strings'. It is adjustable in height, and is... view details
Part of a pair of caned settees
The back panels of this pair of caned settees are decorated with carvings of musical instruments, a lyre crossed with a pair of trumpets. This suggests that the... view details
Music Stand
Beech and mahogany music stand with double-sided music rest. The support can be raised and lowered on a ratchet. Size: Height: 150 cm. Width: 40 cm. (Approx). view details
High-backed chair in walnut with seat and back of stamped leather. The legs, back uprights and stretchers are bobbin-turned, the front legs ending in Spanish paw... view details
Fall-front secretaire veneered in flame-figured mahogany, in Gothic style. Offset corners of column clusters on stump feet with foliate capitals. Fall front with... view details
Chaise Longue
Chaise longue of carved mahogany with upholstery of floral gros-point on a black ground. Size: Length: 135 cm; Height: 88 cm approx. view details
17th century Italian walnut chair with carved back and stretchers, and with inlay of paler wood, possibly sycamore. Size: Height: 127 cm; Width: 52 cm:... view details


text:
Clara Clemens
Clara Clemens
Topic Home
Ask a question about '
Clara Clemens
Start a new discussion about '
Clara Clemens
Answer questions from other users
Full Discussion Forum
Clara Langhorne Clemens Samossoud
, formerly
Clara Langhorne Clemens Gabrilowitsch
(June 8, 1874 – November 19, 1962), was the daughter of Samuel Clemens, who wrote as
Mark Twain
Mark Twain
Samuel Langhorne Clemens , better known by his pen name Mark Twain, was an American author and humorist...
. She was a
Contralto is the deepest female classical singing voice, with the lowest tessitura, falling between tenor and mezzo-soprano. It typically ranges between the F below middle C to the second G above middle C , although at the extremes some voices can reach the E below middle C or the second B above...
concert singer and, as her father's only surviving daughter, managed his estate and guarded his legacy after his death.
She was married twice. First to
Ossip Gabrilowitsch
Ossip Gabrilowitsch
Ossip Gabrilowitsch was a Russian-born American pianist, conductor and composer.- Biography :...
, and then after his death, she remarried to Jacques Samossoud. She wrote biographies of Gabrilowitsch and of her father. In her later life she became a Christian Scientist.
Clara was the second of three daughters born to Samuel Clemens and his wife
Olivia Langdon Clemens
Olivia Langdon Clemens
Olivia Langdon Clemens was the wife of the famous American author, Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain.-Early life:...
. She was born and grew up in
Elmira, New York
Elmira, New York
Elmira is a city in Chemung County, New York, USA. It is the principal city of the 'Elmira, New York Metropolitan Statistical Area' which encompasses Chemung County, New York. The population was 29,200 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Chemung County.The City of Elmira is located in...
Her older sister was
Susy Clemens
Olivia Susan Clemens, usually known as Susy Clemens , was the second child and oldest daughter of Samuel Clemens, who wrote under the pen name Mark Twain, and his wife Olivia Langdon Clemens...
, who died when Clara was only 22. Her only brother, Langdon, died as an infant before she was born. Her younger sister was
Jean Clemens
Jane Lampton Clemens, usually known as Jean Clemens, was the youngest of the three daughters of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known by his pen name Mark Twain, and his wife Olivia Langdon Clemens. She was born in Hartford, Connecticut...
. Clara had a serious accident as a child. She was riding a
A toboggan is a simple sled which is a traditional form of transport used by the Innu and Cree of northern Canada. In modern times, it is used on snow to carry one or more people down a hill or other slope for recreation. Designs vary from simple, traditional models to modern engineered composites...
which ended up being hurled into a great oak tree. She was the only one hurt, although her leg injury was severe. The next day it was thought she might have to have her leg amputated, although this was avoided.
Early career
She spent the period from September 1897 to May 1899 living in
Vienna is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Austria and one of the nine states of Austria. Vienna is Austria's primary city, with a population of about 1.723 million , and is by far the largest city in Austria, as well as its cultural, economic, and political centre...
with her parents. While there, notice was taken of her cultivating her voice for the purpose of going on the concert stage. Her voice was characterized as unusually sweet and attractive. She also studied piano in 1899 under
Teodor Leszetycki
Teodor Leszetycki
Theodor Leschetizky was a Polish pianist, professor and composer.-Life:Theodor Leschetizky was born on the estate of the family of Count Potocki in Łańcut. His father was a gifted pianist and music teacher of Viennese birth. His mother Therèse Ulmann was a gifted singer of German origin...
. In December 1900, she was invited by the people of Hartford, her home town, to perform in February 1901 at a grand concert to be given by the
Boston Symphony Orchestra
Boston Symphony Orchestra
The Boston Symphony Orchestra is an orchestra based in Boston, Massachusetts. It is one of the five American orchestras commonly referred to as the "Big Five". Founded in 1881, the BSO plays most of its concerts at Boston's Symphony Hall and in the summer performs at the Tanglewood Music Center...
in the hopes that she would begin her singing career where she grew up. On May 10, 1905 she underwent a successful operation for appendicitis by Dr. Hartley in New York City. She studied for several years under masters in Europe, before making her professional debut in
Florence is the capital city of the Italian region of Tuscany and of the province of Florence. It is the most populous city in Tuscany, with approximately 370,000 inhabitants, expanding to over 1.5 million in the metropolitan area....
. She made her American debut as a contralto concert singer on the evening of September 22, 1906 at the Norfolk Gymnasium in
Norfolk, Connecticut
Norfolk, Connecticut
Norfolk is a town in Litchfield County, Connecticut, United States. The population was 1,660 at the 2000 census.Norfolk is perhaps best known as the site of the Yale Summer School of Music – Norfolk Chamber Music Festival, which hosts an annual chamber music concert series in "the Music Shed," a...
where in 1905 she rented
, a summer cottage. She was assisted in Norfolk by young Boston violinist Marie Nichols. She used the proceeds from the concert to purchase a memorial window for her mother in the Norfolk Church of the Transfiguration, Episcopal. Clemens' piano accompanist was Charles Edmund "Will" Wark, a classical pianist originally from Cobourg, Ontario, Canada. Wark was Clara Clemens' accompanist from the winter of 1906 to late in 1908. Clemens and Nichols continued to perform together including a series of concerts in London and Paris in 1908. On May 30, Clemens debuted in London at a benefit concert for to aid American girls to attend Oxford and Cambridge Universities.
Accident and marriage
At 10:00am on December 20, 1908 in
Danbury, Connecticut
Danbury is a city in northern Fairfield County, Connecticut, United States. It had population at the 2010 census of 80,893. Danbury is the fourth largest city in Fairfield County and is the seventh largest city in Connecticut....
, Clemens went for a sleigh ride with Russian concert pianist
Ossip Gabrilowitsch
Ossip Gabrilowitsch
Ossip Gabrilowitsch was a Russian-born American pianist, conductor and composer.- Biography :...
who was staying with her father at his residence,
Innocence at Home
, in
Redding, Connecticut
Mark Twain, a resident of the town in his old age, contributed the first books for a public library which was eventually named after him.-Government:...
. While passing through Redding Glen, the horse took fright at a wind-whipped newspaper and bolted with driver Gabrilowitsch losing control. At the top of a hill, next to a 60 feet (18.3 m) drop, the sleigh overturned, throwing Clemens out. Gabrilowitsch leaped to the ground and caught the horse by the head, stopping it as it was about to plunge over the bank, dragging Clemens with her dress caught in a runner. Having only sprained his right ankle, Gabrilowitsch returned Clemens to home, unharmed except for the shock of the accident. Twain biographer Michael Shelden doubted the truth of this heroic tale and supplied a motive for why the story might have been planted in the press, namely, to quiet rumors that Clara was having an affair with her former accompanist, a married man.
Clemens had been introduced to Gabrilowitsch in 1899 in Vienna by Theodor Leschetizky who was also training Gabrilowitsch. At noon on October 6, 1909, she subsequently married Gabrilowitsch in the drawing room at
, the Clemens home with
Rev. Dr. Joseph H. Twitchell
Twitchell is a surname, and may refer to* David and Ginger Twitchell, Christian Scientists who were tried for manslaughter in the death of their son, Robyn* Rev. Dr...
presiding. (Twitchell was a great friend of her father.) Her father said that the engagement was not new, having been "made and dissolved twice six years ago." He also said that the marriage was sudden because Gabrilowitsch had just recovered from a surgical operation he had undergone in the summer and they were about to head off to their new house in Berlin where he would begin his European season. Her sister,
Jean Clemens
Jean Clemens
Jane Lampton Clemens, usually known as Jean Clemens, was the youngest of the three daughters of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known by his pen name Mark Twain, and his wife Olivia Langdon Clemens. She was born in Hartford, Connecticut...
, drowned in the bathtub on December 24, 1909 after having an epileptic seizure. On April 21, 1910, her father died and left his entire estate to her in a will dated August 17, 1909 which provided for quarterly payments of interest to keep it "free from any control or interference from any husband she may have." On July 9, she announced that she was giving practically the entire library of her father, comprising nearly 2,500 books, to the Mark Twain Free Library. On August 19, 1910, her only child, Nina, was born in Connecticut at Stormfield.
Nina, the last known lineal descendant of Mark Twain, died January 19, 1966 in a
Los Angeles
Los Ángeles
Los Ángeles is the capital of the province of Biobío, in the commune of the same name, in Region VIII , in the center-south of Chile. It is located between the Laja and Biobío rivers. The population is 123,445 inhabitants...
hotel. She had been a heavy drinker, and bottles of pills and alcohol were found in her room.
Later life
On April 23, 1926, she played the title role in a dramatization of
Joan of Arc
Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc
Mark Twain's work on Joan of Arc is titled in full, Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc, by the Sieur Louis de Conte, who is identified further as Joan's page and secretary...
written by her father at
Walter Hampden's
Walter Hampden
Walter Hampden is the artist name of Walter Hampden Dougherty was a U.S. actor and theatre manager. He was the younger brother of the American painter Paul Dougherty ....
theater. This adaptation and her performance were not very well received by critics. It was again produced in 1927, opening on April 12 and for a series of special morning and afternoon performances at the
Edyth Totten Theatre
Gabrilowitsch was conductor of the
Detroit Symphony Orchestra
Detroit Symphony Orchestra
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra is an American orchestra based in Detroit, Michigan. Its main performance center is Orchestra Hall at the Max M. Fisher Music Center in Detroit's Midtown neighborhood...
from 1918 until 1935, when he fell ill. He entered the
Henry Ford Hospital
Henry Ford Hospital
Henry Ford Hospital, the flagship facility for , is an 805-bed tertiary care hospital, education and research complex located in Detroit ....
on March 25, 1935, where he stayed until September 28, 1935, at which point he was released to his home to convalesce. He subsequently died at his home on September 14, 1936, aged 58.
On May 11, 1944, Clara and Jacques Samossoud, a Russian born symphony conductor 20 years her junior, were married in her Hollywood home. She died at age eighty-eight in
San Diego, California
San Diego, California
San Diego is the eighth-largest city in the United States and second-largest city in California. The city is located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean in Southern California, immediately adjacent to the Mexican border. The birthplace of California, San Diego is known for its mild year-round...
Clara explored eastern religions for a few years, and then eventually became a Christian Scientist, although there is some question as to her seriousness and commitment to it. She authored a book on the subject:
Awake to a Perfect Day
, published by Citadel Press, NYC, 1956 After originally objecting to the release of her father's
Letters from the Earth
Letters from the Earth
Letters from the Earth is one of Mark Twain's posthumously published works. The essays were written during a difficult time in Twain's life; he was deep in debt and had lost his wife and one of his daughters...
in 1939, she changed her stance shortly before her death in 1962 and allowed them to be published. She also published biographies of both her father (
My Father, Mark Twain
in 1931) and of her first husband (
My Husband: Gabrilowitsch
in 1938).
External links
Mark Twain in His Times by Stephen Railton


text:
Les Etroits gorges
The south-facing site of Les Étroits situated at the entrance to the village of Saint Étienne en Dévoluy is a remarkable climbing site.
Magnificent and deep... admire the extraordinary fissure (40 - 60 metres deep, 2 metres wide) the river has carved into the rock.
Walls, fissures, overhangs, from 3a to 7b, this cliff-face school offers climbers a wide range of options, not to forget its ideal introductory routes for giving young children a taste of climbing.
A via ferrata has been created at the heart of the gorge… This 1,300 metre-long route is open to everyone. More than 50 metres above La Souloise, a 14 metre rope bridge lets you cross from one side to another.
The site of Les Étroits is also an introductory canyoning site where you can also learn abseiling techniques and gorge scrambling.