text:
Estimable lives in a very small earth-walled home near a drainage channel running along a dirt road. The land around her is almost all mud and the road is under a foot of water in places. Floods plague her village, called Lameau, in the community of Grande-Saline in Haiti's Artibonite River valley.
This is one of Haiti's most productive agricultural areas, and over the years, the government and international donors have built a network of canals and channels, to divert water to dry areas, and drain out the wet ones. Small villages line these channels. Just after the harvest, many are drying their rice crop on tarps on the side of the road, near their small homes, some of which are quaint wooden houses that resemble gingerbread cottages. Others are more modest earth-walled dwellings. Children play and swim in the channels, laughing and splashing in the sun.
It looks idyllic but the Artibonite River valley can be a tough place to live, Estimable says. "When there's too much water in our houses, in our fields, we get upset stomachs. It's very hard to live here with so much water." The lack of clean water in 2010 after one particularly rainy period coincided with a cholera outbreak which killed 300 people in this area, according to local officials.
Grande-Saline's mayor, Erole Romeus, drew up a plan to clear out the mud and vegetation choking six kilometers (3.75 miles) of the secondary channels like the one near Estimable's house. He's also hired heavy equipment to widen them to handle more water flow. The project is employing two 132-member work teams in a cash-for-work program that provides much needed wages of about five dollars a day for 12 days. The project prioritizes hiring people living near the channels. About 2,000 people in 400 households live in this area and will benefit from better flood control.
Sansion Morisette is one of the workers; she has just spent the morning raking weeds out of the narrow channel running along the road next to Estimable's house. "It's about time we started this work," she says. "I'm out on the street now because water destroyed my house in Rossignol. Take a look around you, we're lucky if we can get two bags of rice out of our harvest sometimes, the water just eats everything we grow."
Mayor Romeus says the project in Grande-Saline should take the community a long way towards reducing flooding, especially during the annual hurricane season. "Every time it rains, we can have 200 to 300 small houses destroyed," he says standing on a flooded road next to the drainage channel, where scores of workers in white t-shirts are clearing away plants and other debris.
"We started talking about rehabilitating these channels as a means to deliver a durable solution to the people here," Romeus says. "We came to Oxfam America because it is an organization that is interested in helping vulnerable people reduce the risks of disasters.
"Since we cleared all this out, people will probably have an opportunity to harvest. But if we did not, in another week we would have been in danger: the people, crops, and animals."
Oxfam is devoting $20,000 for this project, which is covering about half the costs and supports the cash-for-work component, wages for heavy equipment operators, and fuel. It's part of a larger program to reduce vulnerability to disasters in the countryside, and make it easier for people to make a living in farming, an alternative to the overcrowded conditions in Port-au-Prince.
Sancion Morisette is optimistic that the newly rehabilitated channels will help them. "Now I know that when it rains, the water will flow in the channel and go directly to the sea."
]]>"My friends," comes the voice from the radio, "take your chairs to sit down and have some discussion about cholera now on your favorite show, 'Some information about cholera.'"
If it is hard to imagine a show about a deadly disease as your favorite, that may be because you don't live in rural Haiti. Here, among the beautiful mountains and broad rivers, people live with a frightening reality: it's easy to catch cholera, and reaching the nearest clinic may take more time than you have.
Without treatment, cholera can be fatal within hours. But in rural Nippes province, what serves as a road may be the bed of a river that after heavy rains becomes a torrent. Or a footpath over steep mountains, where the rocks are sometimes covered in mud so slick that only the most sure-footed can navigate them. Where swift access to medical care is out of the question, cholera prevention takes on special urgency.
"There are some localities where we have to walk three to four hours to reach people. We use horses to go there," says Jean Bassette, the Oxfam public health officer who hosts the show. "We can't travel to remote areas every week, but with the radio program we can reach them easily."
"Ti koze sou kolera," as the show is called in Creole, invites listeners to call in. The discussions cover whatever cholera issues people want to talk about but usually focus on prevention and emergency treatment.
"If we don't have oral rehydration salts—or sugar and salt to prepare them—what can we do?" asks one caller.
Stephanie Lormil, an Oxfam public health promoter who sometimes joins the show, explains that coconut water can be a stopgap solution, hydrating the person well enough to make the trip to the hospital.
Sensitive topics like social stigma enter in, as well.
"Treat people who have cholera with respect," advises Bassette. "Do not humiliate them. People who have the disease need to be able to tell that to the community, and the community needs to support them by preparing oral rehydration salts and helping them get to the hospital. If people with cholera keep the information to themselves, there is risk to the whole community."
Feedback on the show has been overwhelmingly positive. Local leaders in communities throughout the broadcast area often call in with thanks and congratulations, and people on the street have kind words for the show.
"When we first heard about cholera, we were scared," says Jose Mira of Petite Rivière de Nippes, who cited the radio show as one of Oxfam's successful public health efforts. "We didn't want to live next to people who had cholera. But Oxfam helped us understand the phenomenon of cholera and gave us training. After that, it became easier. We are not scared of cholera anymore, because we know how to protect ourselves."
Read more about Oxfam's cholera program in rural Nippes.
Donate now to Oxfam's fund for Haiti relief and recovery.
]]>The Haitian authorities need to show greater strategic leadership and take decisions that reflect the priority needs of the Haitian population. They need to initiate public infrastructure projects that put people to work and build skills; support people to return home or allocate land for new houses; and invest in agriculture. The international community should do much more to support these efforts by increasing the capacity and accountability of Haitian institutions.
]]>Their mission? To build some of the 700 latrines Oxfam is helping to fund in the Petite Riviere area of the Artibonite province, where the deadly waterborne disease first broke out in October. It has now reached every province in the country, aided in its rapid spread by Haiti's poor infrastructure: 50 percent of Haitians don't have access to clean water, and more than 80 percent don't have latrines.
For some of the families in this rice-growing region, that's about to change. The latrines are part of a multi-pronged effort, including a public health education campaign, Oxfam has launched to help 125,000 people in this area stop a disease that hadn't surfaced in Haiti since 1960. By the end of November, cholera had already sent more than 34,000 people to the hospital and killed more than 1,750 across the country.
Oxfam is also tackling the outbreak in Cap Haitien, Haiti's second largest city, and in Port-au-Prince, the capital. There, intensive efforts to provide clean water, sanitation services, and public health education to people displaced by the January 12 earthquake has prevented any known cases of the disease from cropping up in the camps where Oxfam works.
Along with the household latrines in Petite Riviere and the construction of 50 school latrines, Oxfam is planning to drill 50 boreholes to be fitted with hand pumps and repair three water networks to provide people with greater access to clean water. But as important as those initiatives are, stopping cholera requires education—how to prevent it and how to treat it and to know to seek medical help when diarrhea and vomiting starts.
In coordination with the ministry of health, Oxfam has taken to the airwaves in Petite Riviere, broadcasting information on how to prevent cholera. It has trained government community health workers as well as peer educators on key messages and they are fanning out to spread the word. Equipped with battery-powered bullhorns, Oxfam health promoters are trekking through fields and across canals, sharing vital information with farmers as they work.
"Members of the community are very keen about what is being said," said Mario Guerrero, the cholera program manager in Petite Riviere. "They have the feeling when they go into the trainings that there's no way out if you get it."
But after people have learned something about the disease and its transmission?
"They have the idea you can do something," said Guerrero.
Doing something is what Erntz Jean and the team of volunteers were all about: With materials provided by Oxfam—wood for walls and a roof, and a slab to cover the pit—they were helping their neighbors build the first latrines many of them have ever had.
"That's how we do things here," said Jean, standing near the just-built wooden structure covering the latrine of Lozina Cena. "We help each other."
The team picked up their tools and wove between the hedges and small houses to their next location: a narrow pit, six feet deep, just beyond the canopy of a giant mango. They got to work sawing two-by-fours, hammering, and preparing the frame for the housing of the latrine.
"Everybody here is very happy about this. Not only me—everyone in the area," said Jean, who was among those who received materials to build a latrine. A carpenter by trade, he said he never had the money to build one before this.
"As a carpenter, if there was work, I'd be working and I'd have the money to do this. But there's no activity here—no jobs," said Jean.
Down the road, Eugene Joseph, a father of five children, had almost completed his new latrine. He spent a part of five days digging the hole—after starting in a different spot in his yard and hitting rock.
"Before, we didn't use any latrines. We went in the bush or the street," he said, noting the street—a rough dirt road—was about 40 meters from a canal leading to the Artibonite River from which his family pulls its drinking water.
"We were never sick," said Joseph.
But the cholera outbreak scared him.
"We thought it would spread around our house," said Joseph. And so with Oxfam's help he decided to build the latrine.
"We're proud of this," he added.
A few houses away, Charite Estimable, echoed Joseph's fear. But she wasn't really worried about herself: She had been treating her water in a sand filter for most of the past year and had received some chlorine tablets from Oxfam to purify it further. It was her children—she has 11—whose health she was fretting over.
"I was afraid for my children in Port-au-Prince," she said, noting that six of them were now living in the crowded capital.
Estimable's neighbor, Altagrace Nicolas, also voiced confidence in her ability to keep cholera at bay.
"I've always been careful with myself and my children," she said. "I've never been negligent. The reason it spread in some places is because people were not careful."
To help everyone become more vigilant, Oxfam has been sending out teams for random monitoring of the water families collect and treat with the chlorine tablets the organization has been distributing.
Toting a bucket loaded with a couple of pitchers and a chlorine testing kit, George Van Vulpen and Elie Saint-Cyr, public heath engineers for Oxfam, hit the dirt roads of Akacite and Trankilite, two communities near the Artibonite River. Stopping at one house here, another there, they took a scoop of drinking water, tested it for residual levels of chlorine, and discussed the results with the householders—all with an eye toward encouraging proper use of the tablets. Had they been adding the tablets to the water? When? Were they dropping in the right number of them?
"For sure they're using them," said Van Vulpen, packing up the gear after the last sample of the day. "Most of them (the samples) have residual chlorine."
That was a good sign—and so was the news he picked up along the way.
"In Akacite, they didn't know of anyone who was sick anymore," said Van Vulpen.
"We have a feeling that we are doing better than other parts of the country," said Guerrero, the program manager for Petite Riviere. "Reported cases are going downward—slightly. But downward."
]]>Dénéus works for Oxfam in the commune of Petit Rivière in the department of Artibonite in Haiti -- an area recently plagued by cholera. She sets out in the morning in a four-by-four truck, seeking out farmers in the fields who may not have heard the radio programs Oxfam has recently broadcast about proper hygiene and sanitation measures to stop the cholera, avoid infection, or the basic steps to help stricken people survive.
Spotting a crew of five men preparing a field to plant potatoes, she asks the driver to stop the truck, and she bounds out the back, moving across the road, down a well-worn path, jumping across an irrigation ditch, to the edge of the field.
It's best for those accompanying Dénéus to stand behind her when she gets into action: she routinely uses a battery-powered megaphone to greet the farmers, and her words are loud and carry a long way. She asks them if they have already been trained on how to avoid and treat cholera and proper hygiene and sanitation practices. If they seem unsure or say no, she launches into the routine: she explains that cholera is a bacterial disease, can be passed by drinking contaminated water, and can be controlled by washing your hands before putting anything in your mouth. She encourages them to chlorinate water before drinking it, and to take early action to treat people showing symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting with an oral rehydration solution.
Some of the farmers stop, lean on their hoes, and listen, while others keep piling the moist earth into long mounds, in preparation for planting. But even the ones who keep working shout questions as they go: Where can we get soap? What about helping people who are sick? Where do we get the chemicals to treat our drinking water? Dénéus responds to all the questions: She refers people to centers where oral rehydration solution is available in their village, so they can ensure sick relatives can survive. And where to get one of the 35,000 cholera kits Oxfam is distributing, which have all the things they need to keep clean and treat their drinking water.
One topic dominates discussion in each of the 10 or so fields she sees this morning: she urges the farmers, "avoid going to the toilet right on the ground!" This is a major, longstanding problem in rural Haiti since well before the January 12th earthquake hit Port-au-Prince nearly a year ago: with no sewage system, running water, or proper latrines, many rural households must answer nature's call in the open. Not all households have a latrine, so the farmers ask for advice: it's simple, Dénéus says, dig a hole and bury the excrement. But Oxfam is also deploying a team of engineers to help farmers with simple materials to build their own latrines as an important step to reducing vulnerabilities to water-borne diseases like cholera. They plan to help install 700 latrines in Petite Rivière.
Dénéus is relentless, she repeats her messages with the same enthusiasm for each group she encounters toiling in the hot December sun, sweat running down the side of her face. "If you don't think cholera can kill you, go to the hospital, go to the morgue, and see for yourself," she tells any skeptical farmers.
Passing by a group she spoke with earlier in the morning now taking a lunch break, she stops and poses a question: "Did you wash your hands before eating?" Of course the answer is yes, but when she asks if they used soap, a few look down, but most of them make no excuses: soap is expensive and they are not accustomed to bringing it to the fields with them. Another form of behavior for Dénéus to change: With Oxfam distributing free soap, expense is not an issue in the short term, and eventually she hopes that farmers will improve their hygiene practices in the fields as well as at home.
After a productive morning tour of the fields, Dénéus stops by a few oral rehydration centers in the community of Marqès. These are simple tables stocked with clean water, mixing bowls and cups, and small packets of oral rehydration salts. These tables are staffed by trained volunteers who can teach people how to mix the life-saving solution, and ensure that anyone with a sick family member has access to this essential therapy. Cholera can kill in just a few hours by completely dehydrating a victim, so oral rehydration is essential. Dénéus checks the supplies, and coaches the volunteers on preparing solutions, how to answer frequently asked questions, and asks if there has been any activity at the centers as part of the monitoring Oxfam is doing in the community.
Dénéus has a law degree and is working for Oxfam because she says the right to life is one of the most basic. "I came here to save lives; that's what Oxfam is doing here," she says as she leaves the fields after a busy morning."I've only been working here a month, but I've seen Oxfam doing good work, and it is saving lives. The rate of mortality is reduced, and the rate of people getting sick is also lower thanks to Oxfam."
The work of Dénéus and other public health promoters is reaching out to 125,000 people in the region, using the radio and in-person visits to push key messages about good hygiene and sanitation habits. Mario Guerrerro, Oxfam's program manager in Petite Rivière, says this effort is proving essential. "The training for people to change their habits is making the difference," he says in his office, looking over the declining mortality figures in a report from the health ministry. "Once people understand, they do their best to treat their water."
Toward the end of Dénéus's rounds this one morning, she encounters nearly 40 farmers in a relatively small area she can hit in one stop. She moves through her presentation, answers a few questions, and concludes her visit with a phrase, a promise, and a wish: "Zero cholera!" she shouts, her final words to the farmers.
]]>Oxfam is deeply concerned that the disease, which has sickened more than 8,000 people and killed more than 540, has found its way into the city where countless families are still crowded into makeshift camps scattered across the hills since the January earthquake destroyed their homes. More than one million people remain homeless. The heavy rain and flooding caused by Hurricane Tomas over the weekend has likely allowed cholera to spread, especially given the poor sanitation conditions in the country.
But since the start of the epidemic in Artibonite—and even since the first days following the devastating quake--Oxfam has been preparing for the possibility of an outbreak in the capital. Providing people with clean water, sanitation and hygiene education is the only way to prevent the spread of diseases like cholera. Oxfam is reaching 315,000 people with these services in the Port-au-Prince area.
The organization is now reinforcing those programs in the camps in which it has been working since the quake. It's chlorinating water and increasing the cleaning of sanitation facilities as well as organizing training sessions on the preparation of oral rehydration salts and homemade rehydration liquids—essential and effective treatment for patients. In addition, Oxfam has increased its training for staffers and community members on disease surveillance and it's building latrines at the Petite Goave Hospital for a cholera treatment center.
In the Artibonite province, north of the capital, Oxfam has a team of about 25 staffers working on a water, sanitation, and hygiene program that is reaching about 100,000 people in an area called Petite Riviere. The program includes distribution of water purification tablets and powder, soap, buckets, and oral rehydration salts. Oxfam is also repairing and building wells and then purifying the water pulled from them.
But most importantly, the organization is carrying out a massive hygiene education campaign that includes broadcasting radio messages regularly as well as training community members to share information on how to stem the spread of the disease. Large-scale public education sessions in rural villages and towns are part of the program as well—and are helping to quell fears and provide better information.
"The only way to stop the spread of cholera is when each and every person is practicing good hygiene," said Oxfam press officer Julie Schindall, who is based in Haiti. "That's as simple as hand washing and drinking clean water."
Those messages—along with the network of water and sanitation services aid groups have established in the camps around Port-au-Prince—have made a major difference for people: In the nearly 10 months since the quake there had not been a major outbreak of waterborne disease in the capital.
"We kept very vulnerable people safe for a long time," said Schindall. "But now, clearly, we must throw even more resources into treating the sick and containing the spread of the disease."
One of the central challenges in tackling problems like this—and one reason humanitarian relief operations are repeatedly launched--is the lack of basic infrastructure across the country and the government's lack of capacity, Schindall added.
"Clearly in the long term we need to reinforce the government's capacity to protect people," said Schindall.
]]>The storm is expected to hit sometime early Friday morning. In the event of the damage it may cause, Oxfam will ensure that the nearly 500,000 people it is now helping will continue to have clean water and sanitation services. The organization is planning to repair latrines and other structures it has built.
But because of the recent cholera outbreak north of Haiti's capital, humanitarian groups, including Oxfam, are finding their resources stretched and more supplies will be needed if Tomas turns destructive. Oxfam's cholera response program is reaching about 100,000 people in the Artibonite province. According to the ministry of health, the outbreak has sent 6,742 people to hospitals and left 442 dead.
Throughout the hurricane season, which started June 1, Oxfam has been preparing for a major storm in Port-au-Prince, the camp-filled capital, and surrounding communities. More than one million people are still living under tarps and in tents since a January earthquake destroyed great swaths of the city. Oxfam has reinforced its water and sanitation facilities, by tying down water bladders, adding extra supports to shower stalls, and taking precautions to ensure that latrines don't flood. In addition, Oxfam has been clearing canals and digging drains for months.
The organization has also continued its public health campaigns, educating people about good personal hygiene practices that will prevent the spread of waterborne disease, which is crucial if there is flooding. And Oxfam has been distributing extra hygiene supplies, like soap and jerry cans.
If the storm strikes, Oxfam will send out emergency response teams within 24 hours after to assess camps where it works and determine what repairs need to be made and ensure that people have adequate drinking water.
Despite these preparations, Oxfam remains very concerned about the impact heavy rains may have on the spread of cholera, and other diseases. If there is storm flooding and the water does not drain off, waterborne diseases can spread quickly.
In Artibonite, Oxfam's team of 25 staffers is carrying out a massive hygiene education campaign, through radio messages, training community members to spread information about good hygiene, and large-scale public education sessions in villages and towns. The only way to stop the spread of cholera is when each and every person is practicing good hygiene. In addition to that initiative, Oxfam is also distributing water purification tablets and powder, soap, buckets, and oral rehydration salts in the area of Petite Riviere.
]]>It's supported by PADELAN, or the Project to Assist Local Development and Agroforestry in Nippes, a collaboration between Oxfam Quebec and the Ministry of Agriculture that uses money from the Canadian International Development Agency to fund projects identified as priorities by local development committees.
And in Anse-a-Veau, this store was one of those priorities--desperately needed.
Several doors down, Mayor Telisme Dutelien sits behind his desk in a small office in the town hall. On a mid-May morning, the room is dim and sweltering. No lights shine and no fan churns: the community's generator, which provided electricity, stopped working the month before, explains Dutelien. It's just one of the problems that has plagued Anse-a-Veau in recent years, ever since its population began to drop in the 1980s, dragging the community's commercial vitality with it.
The decline of Anse-a-Veau is symptomatic of what has happened across Haiti as Port-au-Prince, the capital and hub of opportunity, sucked people from the countryside for jobs, for schools, for a better life—or the promise of one. But in January, disaster struck there: an earthquake leveled great swaths of the city, killing 230,000 people and shaking the nation to its core. That calamity brought into sharp focus the drawbacks of centering so much of a country's lifeblood in one sprawling place.
Now, the call for decentralization, long a national goal, is again sounding loud and clear. As international donors promise enormous financial resources to help Haiti rebuild, what are the steps it needs to take to answer that call? Some ideas can be found in the initiatives Oxfam had launched before the quake—programs based on the needs of communities, as voiced by the people who live in them.
They are small, but steady steps and the store in Anse-a-veau is one of them. Open since December 2009, it operates six days a week, its shelves of canned milk and crackers, matches and razor blades plugging the household needs local growers can't fill themselves.
Nearby, in Paillant, Guerline Rubin stands at the entry to her house, carrying a stack of cardboard crates loaded with eggs. They are from the chickens clucking in a henhouse in the corner of the yard—another of PADELAN's community projects designed to help local families find ways to boost their incomes.
The chickens belong to Rubin's father, a participant in the egg-production project which has targeted 20 households in the area. Each of them received 60 chickens, whose value the farmers will slowly pay back—at the rate of 500 gourdes a month, or $12.40—to the local development council that provided the birds. They lay about an egg a day.
For Rubin, that means trips to the market at least twice a week to sell her family's cache. She ports the fragile eggs via tap-tap, a small colorful bus that lurches over the dirt roads between villages. Each egg fetches about five gourdes, netting Rubin's family about 2 gourdes, or about 5 cents.
Added up, that bit of income becomes a precious resource for farmers trying to put food on their tables, pay for medical care, and have a little cash left over to invest in a hardier variety of seeds that can promise a decent harvest—and give families a reason to stay in the countryside.
A few hills over, Marie Camel Rubin bends over her field of beans, corn, and manioc. Behind her, in the distance, a low building rises from the sea of green—it's a new mill built with the help of PADELAN to grind corn and sorghum. Open six days a week, the mill saves local farmers the time-consuming trip via bus to another community to have their grain ground.
Rubin is one of the local farmers happy to have their own mill nearby. And while it saves her time, she still struggles to make ends meet. Weeding along with her through the rows is her son, Noel Jolins. He's 8—and he would be in school if his mother could afford the fees. But he had to quit when she couldn't scrape together the money to send him.
That's one of the reasons Laventure Benad is so eager to see a small irrigation system completed in the hills of Colora in central Haiti. The father of seven children, he can afford to send only four of them to school now. But with irrigation—and the opportunity it will provide for three harvests a year instead of just one—Benad hopes he will have not only more food for his family, but enough income to pay for additional schooling.
"We'd like to go forward," he says as a pair of young men behind him hammer at a heap of rocks, cracking them into gravel to help build the irrigation system. Channeled into a pipe, water from the mountain stream flowing by them will find its way into more than 60 acres of fields below where it will help 150 farmers.
With the help of Proyecto Binacional Artibonito, an Oxfam Quebec-supported project known as PROBINA, the irrigation could eventually bring them a measure of financial independence, say farmers. They expect that within three years they will be doing well enough to b able to buy their own seeds and fertilizer.
For Markens Louidort, a 26-year-old student in Liancourt in the Artibonite Valley, education holds the key to a better future, he says. He has enrolled in a computer-training program offered by APPEL, or Association des Parents and des Professeurs d'Ecole de Liancourt, an Oxfam partner that provides post-secondary vocational training.
"The world is going on with technology and it's important for someone to learn computers," says Louidort. In a country with unemployment as high as 70 percent, Louidort is hoping this new, hard-won skill will help him land a job.
Three days a week, for four hours each day, he settles in behind a computer in the stifling APPEL classroom. A series of batteries from Oxfam, recharged with the help of a generator at a nearby radio station, provide the electricity for the computers. Every seat is taken. This is the most popular class APPEL offers and some students share computers. A mood of deep concentration hangs over them.
At the head of the classroom, teacher Dieunel Prince talks the students through the next step of a program that will allow them to format certificates. Later, he explains privately that one of the biggest challenges he faces in working with these students is the fact that so many of them never had the opportunity to learn how to type—a handicap for those hoping to dive quickly into this new field.
That gap in learning is an indication of the struggles Haiti has had with providing a solid education for its citizens—about a quarter of the districts have no schools and 38 percent of Haitians over the age of 15 are illiterate. Education is one of the fundamental services rural regions will need to offer if decentralization is ever to become a reality for Haiti.
Michelle Lisette Casimir, mayor of Saint Michel in Artibonite, knows that well. Many of the families in the area sent their children to Port-au-Prince for advanced schooling, and some of them died in the quake. What Casimir longs for Saint Michel to have is a professional school of its own.
"We can't talk about the future without being concerned about the youth—they way they are living," says Casimir, adding that education is her top development wish. "With education...we will keep them."
]]>As we approach Row 1A—one of the neat lines of white tents that make up the Corail resettlement camp, two figures wave at us energetically. Marceline Philidor and her daughter Sabine are as welcoming as when I saw them last, over a month ago. Their family was among the first group of people to be moved from the Petionville Golf Club—where they faced an imminent threat of flash floods—to this site about 15 km outside Port-au-Prince.
Marceline is busy cooking some rice on a small stove, but she pulls up some plastic chairs for us under the awning in front of her tent - one of the few small patches of shade in this vast, sun-baked camp. I ask her what life has been like these last two months.
"Well, life is the pretty much the same here now as when we moved in. Not much has changed. We have our tent. We have enough water from Oxfam to drink and cook and wash. We've received food, too, and rice, oil, beans and flour from World Vision. We still have the latrines from Oxfam, and there are enough for everyone, although it would be nice to have our own toilet, or a toilet to share with several families, and keep them clean between us."
Oxfam has been concerned since the Corail site was selected in April that the area is isolated and doesn't have markets close by. I ask Marceline what they have been living on and whether they've been looking for work outside of the camp.
"I've done some work - digging the trenches for drainage here in the camp, making them deeper—so we will have a little money soon. I've been the one working, because I had my identification with me when they offered the work, so I signed up. My husband goes out almost every day looking for work. Sometimes he takes the tap-tap (Haitian mini-bus) that goes from here to town, and costs 15 gourdes. But we don't have much money, so often he has to walk."
Marceline's husband, David Deronoil, joins us and tells about his search for work.
"I go regularly into Delmas, to all the old places I used to work before the earthquake. I was a metal worker and then a driver. Often I have to walk, so I leave here at 4:30 in the morning, and I usually arrive around 11." He pauses. "A man shouldn't stay at home and not work. He should be able to go out and work to support his wife and child. But there are no jobs."
Marceline once sold goods at a market stall, and she would like to re-open her business. "But I wouldn't start it here," she says. "I would go to one of the markets nearby, in Bon Repos. People say they might create a new market there so people here can work. I don't know if it's true. We've been asking to have a market and a hospital and a school for the people living here in the camp."
School is an important topic for David.
"Aside from getting work, our main priority is Sabine's education. Education is very important. I don't want my daughter to grow up sitting around here, not learning anything. I want her to go to school and learn. To get an education. There's a good school in Bon Repos; I would like to take her there, but we would need money. Like before the earthquake."
I ask David and Marceline what their thoughts are about the future. David shrugs. "I wouldn't mind having a house here. We like it here; we don't hate it. And we don't want to go back to Port-au-Prince. It's too crowded and there are no homes there. I wouldn't mind having a home here, or even building one myself."
He smiles, looking around his tent. For now there isn't much around their little home—just one or two plants sheltered by the side of the tent—but it's clear he's picturing what it could be like.
"We would like a little place to plant trees, so that they could give us shade and we could have mangoes to eat. And some space to keep chickens. Then we could have chicken to eat. We need a real home. We need some privacy. We also need to be able to have fun sometimes, have some kind of recreation." He laughs. "Maybe watch the world cup on TV!"
He becomes serious again. "But we don't know if there will be homes. There are rumors that they might be moving us again. So we don't know."
Although Corail is designated as a temporary relocation site, nobody knows how long people like David and Marceline will live here. These families need—and have the right—to start earning a living again, to send their children to school, and to have a clear idea when they will finally have a home again. The government of Haiti, with the support of international and national organizations, has the responsibility to develop and implement a housing, resettlement, and job-creation strategy that will get people back into homes and communities, and earning incomes. This is the crucial next step to help Haitians rebuild their lives for the long term.
]]>"Things were difficult right after the earthquake, but we're Haitian, so we have to get up and move forward," says Marie Carole Boursiquot. "There was the community canteen, and that work really helped me; I was able to set some money to start my business back up. Now I have my own stall again. Every week I had the canteen, I would put aside some of the profits—1,000 gourdes here, 1,000 gourdes there—and I would send the girls out to buy things for my shop. I also borrowed a little money so that I could buy the rest of the stock. Now I am selling all kinds of things: rice, sugar, beans, pasta, coal…"
I ask her to show us her stock and she is happy to oblige. She shows us the beans and grains first, lined up neatly to one side, in canvas sacks. She scoops up little handfuls of each for us to inspect; kidney beans, black beans, little green beans she calls French beans, Miami beans, wheat, corn meal, and corn kernels. (The corn is for chickens, she specifies, not people.) Then she delves into a box on the floor and pulls out blue sachets of coal, little bags of washing powder, and sugar that she has wrapped in little plastic packages—two sizes: one worth 5 gourdes and one worth 10. For such a small stall, there is an impressive variety of stock.
She puts the boxes back in place and sits down. "I went all the way down to Croix Bossales to buy the stock at the market there. My brother came with me and helped me. With the canteen and now this stall, at least we can all eat. There are ten of us still living together since the earthquake, in the same shelter with a metal roof. But now we have some plastic sheeting—some from Oxfam and some that we bought—so when it rains we don't get wet like we did before."
We are momentarily interrupted by the arrival of a customer, a little girl of five or six years, sent to Marie Carole to buy some snacks—chips or crackers of some kind. She is a little shy around us and rushes off without waiting for her change. Marie Carole laughs and lines up the coins on the counter—the little girl will be back.
"The problem now is that this shop is not mine. I have an arrangement with the owners; they have let me set up shop outside the bottom floor [of the building behind us] because they can't use it anymore, since the top floor collapsed in the earthquake. But the ceiling is cracked and leaks so some of my stock got wet."
"People from Oxfam [the market support team] came to inspect the site of my old shop. They saw that it was destroyed, and they are going to provide me with a shipping container that I can use as a shop and to store my stock securely. That will be much better for my business. I will be able to buy more, and I will be able to manage my stock better then."
I ask her what her biggest needs are now, but she is reluctant to answer. She shrugs.
"Oxfam is the only organization helping this whole community. Many things would help me, but I don't want to ask for too many things. You can't constantly ask for others to give and give. I am satisfied with what God gives me. But with more money or the container from Oxfam, I would be able to get on even better than now, expand my shop, sell more, and make more money to improve our shelter and to improve our life."
"There are always needs, but as long as we are healthy, and we have two hands and two feet, we can find things to do, and we will continue living. Things will get better."
]]>Like hundreds of thousands of other survivors, they fled the ruins of Port-au-Prince to seek shelter in the countryside, squeezing in with family and friends and relying on them for support in the weeks—and now months—after the disaster.
It's early May, and the girls are among the 17 relatives and friends Jean Claude and Rose Marie Perard are hosting in their house in Saint Michel, a four-drive from the capital. The household numbered nine before the quake. Now, 26 people—many of them children—crowd the Perards' small dark rooms and courtyard.
"Day by day we cope," says Rose Marie Perard.
It's a refrain repeated across the rugged provinces as Haitians, living in the poorest country in the western hemisphere, open their doors and share what little they have.
But here, on a sweltering afternoon in the main room of the Perards' house, the strain for some of the family members is beginning to show and the target is NGOs, the non-governmental organizations that offered a patchwork of basic services—education, health care, agricultural support—before the quake and have now ramped up, with billions of dollars at their disposal, to help meet the needs of some of the three million people affected by the disaster. Some locals charge that the NGOs have long been in Haiti to help themselves more than they are to help the Haitians—and they question whether there are lasting benefits to the projects aid groups launch.
Oxfam's goal is to make a durable difference, one that leaves people with the skills and knowledge to ensure their own growth and success, and that means a long-term commitment that empowers communities to meet their own needs.
Cereste Perard has been waiting, grim-faced, for his turn to talk. He's 27 and was in Port-au-Prince when the quake hit, along with some of his siblings who were studying there. About 81 percent of Haiti's schools are private, and many of those at the upper levels, including universities, are concentrated around the capital. Parents often send their children there for better opportunities, which means covering the added expense of room and board along with school fees—a commitment that can severely strain finances, forcing kids to drop out until their families can marshall the resources to allow them to return.
Sinking into an empty spot on the sofa, Cereste Perard offers his opinion about Haiti's recovery.
"What we need is for us to be independent," he says, with bitterness in his voice. "The international community is giving us orders on how to live our lives."
Cereste is pretty clear about how he wants to live his: his goal is to go to university and study industrial engineering, like an older brother, Jean Rodney Perard, who is now working toward a medical degree.
In the long hot months ahead and it's up to their mother, Rose Marie, to manage the crowded household on a budget stretched by borrowing and pleading with friends for help. Rose Marie collects a small monthly salary from the ministry of public health for which she works five days a week as a technologist in a lab. Her husband serves as the municipal director for Saint Michel, an appointed post.
Having jobs puts the couple in the minority among Haitians who, by some calculations, face unemployment rates as high as 70 percent. But with 26 mouths to feed and a crowd of children to help educate, the Perards' salaries don't stretch far.
"I buy food on credit and whenever money comes in, I pay it all back," says Rose Marie, adding the household eats just two meals a day. And when night comes, everyone stretches out wherever there is room: some in the beds, some on the floors.
As full as this house is, it's not the only one in Saint Michel packed tight since January. After the quake, more than 11,000 people reportedly made their way to the town and the smaller communities that surround it, and a survey conducted in a month later found that 5,000 of them were still there.
A sudden downpour hammers the metal roof of a small mill in Verrettes, a few hour's drive from Saint Michel. The rain drowns the voices of 13 men and women sitting in the hot gloom, but their raised hands tell the story: all but one of them has been supporting people from Port-au-Prince and the rice, and all the other seeds, the farmers had hoped to plant have gone, instead, to feed the newcomers. Rony Charles has four of his wife's relatives staying him; Pierre Riguens had five, now four—sisters and a cousin; Simadieu Descombes is hosting seven.
With planting season upon them—and no seeds to sow—the farmers are hoping they can get access to some microcredit to tide them over. Raising agricultural production levels is the first thing people in his community need, says Charles. And creating jobs for the newcomers is also near the top of the list.
While some people appear to be returning to the capital, Anouce Myrtil predicts that plenty of others will find it easier living in the countryside.
"Even if Port-au-Prince had golden streets, no one's going to live easy in Port-au-Prince because of fear," he says, sitting on the site of a new sugarcane mill Oxfam is helping to build in the community of Lacedras, near Saint Michel. It's part of a range of small-scale initiatives designed to support economic development and improve agricultural output in the region—objectives that are more important than ever as Haiti struggles to overcome the devastation caused by the earthquake and rebuild itself on a stronger foundation. In a country where agriculture employs two-thirds of the workforce yet produces only 28 percent of its gross domestic product, modernizing farm work and expanding production opportunities will be crucial for Haiti's reconstruction.
And for farmer Elcida Estinat, the chance to learn new skills and expand her earning power are vital now that she is caring for young relatives displaced by the quake. Recently, she participated in an Oxfam-supported training on beekeeping. Equipped with a modern hive, she could potentially produce six times the amount of honey that she could using traditional methods.
And every gallon of honey that Estinat harvests from her hives could fetch as much as $24 at the market. Converted into school fees, that honey is better than gold: it will help her buy a brighter future for her kids.
"I know the value of a good education," says Estinat.
]]>With the crack of a sledgehammer on concrete, Oxfam's water and sanitation program in Delmas, Haiti, got underway.
The earth was still shuddering with aftershocks when survivors began to dig, carving out latrine trenches 10 feet long, 10 feet deep, and three feet wide through every kind of soil and pavement. Others did their part by quickly shaping platforms out of rocks and earth to support their new source of drinking water: Oxfam water bladders.
It was a race against time, and against deadly water-related bacteria like typhoid, hepatitis, and cholera that can thrive in crowded, unsanitary conditions. And it is a race that—so far, at least—we are winning. After the quake, hundreds of thousands of people had no access to toilets, and the water available wasn't fit to drink; yet, thanks to an all-out effort on the part of the displaced communities and aid agencies like Oxfam, there have been no outbreaks of waterborne disease.
But there is more to water and sanitation programs than health.
"We build latrines not only because they help prevent the spread of disease, but because they should help protect the dignity and safety of disaster survivors living in camps," says Oxfam engineer Kenny Rae, who led the first phase of Oxfam's water and sanitation effort in Delmas.
There is a special focus on the safety of women and girls, because in the chaotic aftermath of disasters, they are particularly vulnerable to harassment and assault. The structure of a latrine—like the firmness of its latches and whether its doors open toward or away from the general population of a camp—has implications for safety, so Rae and his team listened closely to the concerns of women residents.
Shower construction was another important issue. Haiti's weather is so warm that shower stalls can be open to the sky, but where they were installed within view of multi-story buildings, women in Delmas had understandable concerns about privacy—which Rae and his team quickly addressed by adding roofs.
"When it came to sanitation facilities," says Rae, "women in the camps had the first and last word."
Helping survivors recover after disasters is not as simple as doling out goods and services: it requires attention to the many facets of community well-being.
For example, working for pay can help disaster survivors meet a range of needs, both financial and psychological. Oxfam offered wages to residents to dig latrine trenches, cover them with slabs of molded concrete or plastic, and build structures of wood and plastic sheeting around them for shelter and safety.
"We ended up employing more than 300 people to build latrines in Delmas," says Rae. "Their communities benefited from the project, and their families benefited from the income."
But in some cases, the need for community-building trumped the need for money. When it came to constructing platforms for water bladders, everyone worked for free, says Rae. "They treated the work as a contribution to their communities."
Caring for Haiti's fragile environment was another key consideration for the water and sanitation team, which needed wood for construction.
"From the outset," says Rae, "we determined that we weren't going to use local timber poles because of the impact on deforestation."
The team found a source of timber imported from the US. It was more expensive than local wood, and at first it was hard to find enough of it. But, says Rae, in a country as deforested and as vulnerable to landslides as Haiti, the environmental cost of harvesting timber is tremendous.
When Rae and his team assessed the local water and sanitation situation, they found settlements where thousands of displaced residents had gathered. But Delmas is also dotted with tiny camps and informal schools, and it took time to understand the full extent of the needs. Oxfam staff kept their eyes—and their office—open, continually updating their plans and assessments.
"We had an open-door policy," says Rae. "Pastors, school directors, and other community leaders would bring their requests and concerns to the Oxfam office on a near-daily basis, and we were almost always able to respond."
After helping create water and sanitation facilities in 21 sites, serving 40,000 people, Rae has returned home for a rest. Sort of.
"Of course, I was pleased to get back to the people I love," says Rae, "but I was torn because the needs on the ground in Haiti are so enormous."
When he goes back to Haiti, it will be to work on another key issue in the recovery: shelter. His focus will be not only the homeless in Port-au-Prince, but also the tens of thousands of rural families that are hosting relatives who fled the capital and are now living in very crowded conditions. Rae will be looking for efficient ways to build temporary housing and house extensions to reduce the stress on families.
"Shelter is—and will remain for a while—a huge, huge need," he says.
As for the water and sanitation program in Delmas, says Rae, "I'm confident that the Haitian engineers I helped to train will be able to carry it forward."


text:
recipe reviews for:
"A wonderful, delightful fruit smoothie...it will help you cool down after a hot day in the sun."
My Profile | Cooks I Like Reviews | Photos | Recipes | Menus | Blog
Cooking Level: Expert
Cooking Level: Intermediate
Cooking Level: Beginning
Get the season's best recipes for holiday feasting.
Holiday cookies, cakes, pies, and breads. Get recipes and inspiration.
Get time-saving recipes to save your busy life.
Dessert or nutritious snack, you can't beat smoothies made with Dannon Yogurt.
Fresh berries, skim milk, plain yogurt, and vanilla make a 5-star smoothie.
Sneak some fresh greens into your kids with this tasty smoothie.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Printing Industries Association, Inc. of Southern California (PIASC) is the trade association for the graphic arts community in Southern California. Founded in 1935 and incorporated in 1944, today, PIASC is the largest graphic arts trade association in the nation, serving the interests of more than 1,600 member companies in Southern California.
When you join PIASC, your company also becomes a member of Printing Industries of America (PIA), the world's largest graphic arts trade association, representing an industry with more than 1.2 million employees and serving the interests of more than 12,000 member companies. As a PIASC member, you also belong to the Printing Industries of California (PIC), the state organization that represents you before state legislative and regulatory bodies and provides information and resources to help you comply in these arenas.
PIASC, along with PIC and Printing Industries of America, provides you with the management, marketing, financial and technical information that you need to operate your firm more profitably.
- 5800 South Eastern Avenue
- Suite 400
- Los Angeles, CA 90040
- Phone: 323-728-9500
- Toll Free:
- Fax: 323-724-2327
- Website: http://www.piasc.org
Want to know more about Printing Industries Association of Southern California (PIASC) Get Info Now


text:
Stephanie Gilmore Super Galler 4x World ASP Surfing Champion Stephanie Gilmore (AUS), 24, by: Editor |
World's Best Female Surfer - S Yesterday we mused on the world's most beautiful surfer girl by: Editor |
70s Starlets on Old School Sno Winter has arrived in the mountains. For those who live in s by: Editor |
Kite Surfing Super Cutie - Sus Earlier this week a kite surfer was attacked by sharks while by: Editor |
The world's top women longboarders are gathered in China thi by: Editor |
Who doesn't love Monster Energy girls? Ever dressed in gree by: Editor |


text:
The active millennial generation is having a huge impact on Subaru here in the U.S. They are driving new sales for the Japanese automaker in a big way.
The new Guinness world record for "Most Cars Pulled By One Man" was set by Zydrunas Savickas this week, who arrived at the record attempt in one of the cars he would later be towing. By hand.
Had the idea of a 4-cylinder Ford Mustang been offered up in the mid 1990s, it would have been considered nothing shy of blasphemy but over the past few years, advancements in Ford's EcoBoost progr
As I first reported back in mid-November, Hyundai's chief technology officer resigned in the wake of increasing vehicl
In August Torque News reported on Toyota's plans to create and all-new Prius. This was not a speculation story.
O.K., I must admit that as a former SCCA vintage race class driver, I'm attracted to race breed automotive technology.


text:
The combination of spicy Tequila with the tartness of lemon helps to create a very refreshing summertime libation. It's lemony for sure!
Ingredients: 2 cups of ice cubes,9 medium-sized lemons, 3oz. silver Tequila, 4oz. club soda, 1 tsp. simple syrup, 2 vanilla beans (for garnish), 4 sprigs of mint.
Preparation: Put 2 scoops of ice cubes into a pitcher. Squeeze in the juice of 8 regular lemons. Add several dashes of sugar cane syrup. Add the leaves of 2 fresh mint sprigs, torn into pieces. Add a few lemon wheels for garnish. Add 4 ounces of Tequila and give it a stir. Place in the refrigerator to chill.
When serving, put the ice in tall glasses, and pour the Tequila Lemonade over the top. Top up with club soda. Garnish each glass with a wheel of lemon, a vanilla bean, a sprig of mint
Add your comments below | |
Display Name: | |
Headline: | |
Comments: | |
| |


text:
Robin Ince and Brian Cox are joined by Stephen Fry, Simon Singh and Aleks Krotoski to discuss the maths behind 6 degrees of separation and whether there is something special about Kevin Bacon that seems to make him so well connected?
roy / collective / tags / humour
Tagged with "humour" (8)
The Infinite Monkey Cage: Six Degrees of Separation?
Paul Fenwick | The World's Worst Inventions
Paul Fenwick takes us through a humorous journey of bad inventions from bygone eras. They are cautionary tales with a plea for inventors not to screw up. He talks about asthma cigarettes, cocaine toothache drops for children, the Tempest prognosticator, and blood fueled devices. In the world of bad inventions, toys take center stage, with Cabbage Patch Doll "snack-time kid" which grinds its plastic food into dust along with other unintended food.
Paul Fenwick's cautionary tale about bad inventions is a humorous talk on how things can go terribly wrong if inventors screw up because they didn't carefully think their way through the development and marketing of new inventions. Paul discusses asthma cigarettes, cocaine toothache drops for children, the Tempest Prognosticator, the use of leeches, and blood fuel devices as examples of poorly thought out inventions.
In the field of bad inventions, toys take center stage, as Paul explores Cabbage Patch "snack time kid" and the unintended consequences produced by this poorly thought out toy. Various forms of melty beads are looked at. Hear tales of the Atomic Energy Lab, which contained uranium ore and a comic book on how to split the atom.
Non-toy inventions such as a fire alarm trap to catch pranksters, a fresh air breathing device in case of smoke, as well as the 20 million dollar "acoustic kitty", all terible inventions based on good ideas. He wraps up with his talk on terrible inventions with his own invention that helps people to be more productive while driving their cars.
[Citation Needed] Podcast - Episode 05
In the fifth episode of the [Citation Needed] Podcast, we examine the Powers and Abilities of Godzilla, take a behind the scenes looks at the editorial turmoil of the magazine Dog Fancy and pitch a new Bruce Lee movie, The Dragon Lives Again. Plus, Paul Sabourin of Paul and Storm stops by to discuss how it feels to have one of your songs mistaken for a Frank Zappa song.
Tagged with citation needed humour funny wikipedia
Worst Website Ever II: Too Stupid to Fail
In a highly-anticipated return to SXSW, an all-star lineup of designers, coders, and entrepreneurs compete to pitch their worst business ideas in short lightning rounds. Winner gets funded by a real VC.
Dr. Seuss's Copenhagen by Marcus Brigstocke
The debacle of the Copenhagen summit told as a Dr. Seuss story on BBC's The Now Show.
Oscar Fever
Introducing the Fireland Podcast.
Tagged with fireland joshua green allen funny humour
Halloween Diner
James Lileks deconstructs the Monster Mash from The Diner, located about eighteen and a half minutes from wherever you happen to be.
A brief digression on matters of lost time by John Hodgman
Humorist John Hodgman rambles through a new story about aliens, physics, time, space and the way all of these somehow contribute to a sweet, perfect memory of falling in love.
Tagged with ted john hodgeman humour story


text:
Kylie and Kendall Jenner Rock Leather Minis to KIIS FM's Jingle Ball Concert (PHOTOS & VIDEO)
Following in Kim, Khloe and Kourtney's fashionable footsteps, the posh pair made a chic appearance at KIIS FM's Jingle Ball concert last night.
Channeling their big sisters, Kylie and Kendall jumped on the season's leather trend in coordinating black leather mini skirts.
All three Kardashian sisters have all been rocking leather styles all season long, but Kim has been by far the biggest fan of the trend, sporting everything from leather dresses and pants to a variety of leather mini skirts.
While both Jenner sisters appear to have adopted Kim's love of leather, Kendall looked like she shopped Kim's closet before the holiday party, in a classic leather mini and edgy gray cutout top.
Kylie, on the other hand, seems to be taking after Kourtney in the style department, donning a more playful, girly look in a pleated leather mini and black bedazzled tee.Check out more pictures of the stylish sisters from the Jingle Ball concert in our gallery.
Do you think Kylie and Kendall are taking after their stylish sisters?


text:
Molino Glass Accessories
Molino Glass creates some of the most practical and beautiful masterpieces of the highest quality. Carefully selected colours and exciting designs.
In this section you find Molino Glass accessories, bongs and waterpipes.
Molino Glass - Inside-Cut Pearl Diffuser Downstem
List Price: $8.86
Our Price: $5.32
You save: $3.54


text:
Posted by Gurjot Singh Pandher on June 04, 19102 at 02:10:54:
In Reply to: Re: role of mahatma gandhi in national movement posted by tutu on May 07, 19102 at 10:47:53:
: : : i have to write a project on mahatma gandhi's role in national movement of independence. so. i need help for that. plz help me out.


text:
Year: 2011
Country: USA
Run Time: 28 minutes
According to the Screen Actors Guild report in 2005, 20% of Americans are living with a disability, making them the largest minority in the United States, while only 2% of roles on television and film portray a character with a disability. Pretty People features five actors with a physical disability, and they discuss how they have navigated their challenges in their careers as well as their hopes for the future. The film reveals the truth about the relationship between them and the media by conducting interviews with the actors and others in the film/television industry.
CIFF Screenings
Friday, March 23, 2012 at 4:05 PM
Monday, March 26, 2012 at 12:00 PM
Shorts Program
Independent Shorts Program #1
Arika Yanaka
Nicolas Duval-Adassovsky, Laurent Zeitoun, Yann Zenou
Olivier Nakache, Éric Toledano
Mathieu Vadepied
Dorian Rigal-Ansous
Principal Cast
François Cluzet, Omar Sy
Pretty People
Arika Yanaka
Email: email@example.com
Become A CIFF Member!
Get discounts and first dibs on tickets, enhanced web features, exclusive invitations and more!
Browse the CIFF Archives
Looking for a film screened at a past festival? Begin your search here.


text:
Lopez Restaurante y Cantina
Online Reservations
We were in the mood for Mexican food while driving home one evening and found Lopez Restaurante y Cantina on Open Book. We decided to try it. We were immediately greeted and seated by a friendly gentlemen and asked what we would like to drink. The menu had a great deal of variety and family favorites. My chile relleno was the best I have ever had and the red sauce on my enchilada was delicious. We will definitely return and tell our friends.
It is not often you find a Mexican restaurant in a neighborhood that serves other than the typical stuff. But Lopez Restaurante y Cantina is one of those exceptions. We were looking for something quick but good on a late Sunday and followed a suggestion from Around Us and verified vy Open Table. Menu selection was good. The food was really tasty and well prepared. Tamales and tacos were well above average to the point where we sent off recommendations to several friends who visit the area frequently. Strong recommendation for this neighbor hood (not too far from downtown) restaurant..


text:
Tweet |
Follow Us on Facebook Get updates from FaveCrafts.com posted directly to your News Feed. |
Project Ideas for All Occasions From Paper to Fabric Volume 1 eCraft CreationsBonus: Get our newsletter & special offers for free. We will not share or sell your email address. View our Privacy Policy |
Catch a Wave Glass BlockBy: Holli Long for Mod Podge Use a glass craft block to create an interesting dimensional effect with fabric decoupaged to the back and waves painted on the front. The texture of the glass adds interest to the finished project. Materials:
Something worth saving?
Free eBooks


text:
Villa Tonina Apartments are fully equipped and have everything what you need for your holiday. We have a total of 4... More Info »
Apartment More is just 5min walking distance from the main Cavtat beach with beautiful view to Cavtat bay. New, very... More Info »
House Pero offers a private accommodation to rent all year around in the picturesque town Cavtat. We are only a few... More Info »
Guesthouse Antonio is located in Konavle. It is 15min driving away from Cavtat. Konavle is a region with particular... More Info »
Apartments Tomic invite you to spend pleasant holidays enjoying a wonderful view of the sea, the bay Cavtat and the... More Info »
Welcome to Villa Karacic! We offer a very nice accommodation units only 200m away from the Cavtat center in the... More Info »
We opened our Villa Arka 20 years ago. Villa Arka is located in Cavtat, in the Konavle region of Croatia which is... More Info »
Video guides, travel podcasts, city maps & free city guides. What to eat, where to stay and things to do and see - our travel guides have it all.
Find a guide »Whether you plan everything months beforehand or just plan to take things as they come, there are a few things that you can do before you leave to help your trip go smoothly. Once you've covered the basics, like having your passport handy and packing your toothbrush, here are a few things you may not have thought of...
Read more »We offer the most comprehensive selection of hostels on the internet with over 35,000 great places to stay in 180 countries. The ultimate online resource for hostels everywhere.
Find great value hostels »


text:
If you select black for the color of the case is all black, front, back and sides
- Asked by Murphy C from Naples
- Nov 11, 2012
- Flag as inappropriate
3 Answers from the Community
I have the Black case. It is black with dark grey corner accents and frame around the front. Note that it doesn't work with the 30 pin adapter, you would have to take off the case.
- Answered by James G from Clarence Center
- Nov 20, 2012
- Flag as inappropriate
Not quite, the rubberized parts of the cover are grey rather than black, but it's a dark grey. This is a fantastic and classy case.
- Answered by Dearbhla B
- Nov 19, 2012
- Flag as inappropriate
The Back and Edges are black plastic, the buttons, corners and front lip are a dark grey rubber (same as the interior)
- Answered by David C from Burlington
- Nov 23, 2012
- Flag as inappropriate
Related Questions
Is black the only color that this case comes in?
- Asked by Randi E from Edgewater
- Feb 27, 2013
- Flag as inappropriate
- Asked about: Griffin Survivor + BeltClip for iPo…
Why is the picture for the black case different than the other colors? Note the camera opening on the back is much smaller. Are these the same model?
- Asked by Sean W from Lindon
- Oct 31, 2011
- Flag as inappropriate
- Asked about: Speck PixelSkin HD Case for iPhone …
Are all three colours matte? are the colors, black, grey or silver and white or transparent?
- Asked by Alexandra T from Midland
- Aug 20, 2012
- Flag as inappropriate
- Asked about: Moshi 15" iGlaze Shell Case for Mac…
No answers yet


text:
The Morrison Hotel is located in the heart of Dublin city, on the banks of the River Liffey, and only 40 steps across the Millennium Bridge from the lively quarter of Temple Bar.
This 4* superior hotel is renowned for its style, ambience and discerning atmosphere, and our recent refurbishment has only strengthened our position as a hip and vibrant premier destination for both local and international visitors. Visitors to The Morrison Hotel have always enjoyed the unmistakeable hint of rock'n'roll in the air, and during our refurbishment, we have taken care to preserve this distinctive, artistic aura, with nods to legendary Irish musicians, bands and artists throughout.
Our recent refurbishment has seen a complete redesign and stylistic overhaul of both our lobby area and all 138 bedrooms in the hotel, courtesy of leading Irish architect Nikki O'Donnell. This has been achieved while staying true to our legacy of supporting new Irish design talent in everything from art to textiles and sculpture, but without compromising on the comfort and style which our guests have come to expect. Our musical theme can even be found in certain bedrooms throughout the hotel, in the presence of famous Irish song lyrics.


text:
*** Attention! As of this morning, 2/4/13, Safe Cig's website is down. We believe this is just a temporary issue and will post any updates as we get them. In the meantime, we are recommending V2 Cigs because they have very comparable products. Check out the V2 Cigs Review here!***
There is a reason that the Safe Cig has become one of the most popular electronic cigarettes. One of the main reasons is the cartridge that the Safe Cig uses.
The Safe Cig Company is more concerned about making a quality product than they are about lots of flash. As a result, when it comes to different flavors of vapor juice, the Safe Cig does not have lots of wild and fun flavors to choose from. When it comes to vapor juice flavors, the Safe Cig only has three choices.
- Classic Tobacco
- Marl
- Menthol
One of the things that really impressed me was the customer service department. When I decided to try out the Safe Cig, I wasn't sure if I would like the vapor juice, so I contacted the customer service department and asked for their help. They were amazing. They asked which brand of cigarettes I smoke and based on that information they not only told me to use the Marl flavored cartridges, but they also advised that I use the vapor juice that contained 14mg of nicotine which was the closest to what I already used. In addition to the 14mg vapor juice, the Safe Cig Company also has cartridges that contain 18mg, 11mg, and 0mg of nicotine.
The Safe Cig Company opted to go with a two part design for their electronic cigarettes which means that instead of a complicated refillable cartridge, the Safe Cig cartridge is replaceable. I have never had a problem replacing the cartridge, and each one releases a very satisfying cloud of great tasting vapor.


text:
Ensure the most thorough results from Miele's universal upright vacuum cleaners with this efficient, German made HEPA filter. Designed to help purify the air you breathe, the sealed system captures and retains seasonal and dust allergens, and lung damaging ...
For questions or assistance, call 24 hours a day! 877.812.6235
© 2013 Williams-Sonoma Inc. All Rights Reserved
Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions


text:
Rapidshare link (25.2 MB)
Monday, 13 December 2010
Legs & Co, - Reunited
5 comments:
- Ryan said...
Just a final message to you, the comment board. You`ve been a good friend over these past few months. Weve had a few laughs and few minor tiffs (p4pm) but i will miss you. We are moving on to a bigger and better thing. I hope you dont get to lonely .
Farewell my good freind. - 13 December 2010 18:56
- PattiforPM said...
Hey Ryan, I still want to bicker over these clips sometimes so I hope you're not leaving completely! I like to comment on the dancers in this area too so I'm using both areas. BTW the girls look particularly good in their outfits in this rendition I think
- 14 December 2010 02:13
- Ryan said...
Hey P4PM, okay ill be back, ive got loads more stuff to wind you up, but most of it will be on the forum
Cheers - 14 December 2010 17:32
- Sweet English chicks fan said...
Smoooth, slinky performance, just the thing to dance to with your dream girl before she invites you in for coffee. One thing though, did the girls consider working the cruise liners in a cabaret show
after TOTP cruelly dropped them?
Lots of adoring guys, live audience, travel, and good money,
hopefully. - 22 August 2011 19:52
- Sweet English chicks fan said...
For me,Pauline and Gill make this their own,it suits them both SO well. The contrast between this and
some raunchy rock number performed
in some club for 200 beery blokes
would be stark. If i'm right about
this,it may explain why three of them packed up dancing publicly in
1981, perhaps fed up with being
ogled and leered at after 5 years. - 25 January 2012 19:38


text:
The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) has lifted mandatory water restrictions for Montgomery and Prince George's counties, effective immediately.
Power was restored to almost all pumping stations and the distribution system has returned to near normal levels following Friday night's powerful storm, according to the WSSC.
"Resume water usage as normal," WSSC said, but officials encouraged customers to be conscious of water usage during the extremely hot weather.
If you did not experience low pressure and/or discolored water during the restrictions, there is no need to flush the water lines at your home or business.
If you did experience low pressure and/or discolored water WSSC recommends:
- Flush the cold water lines in your home or business for five minutes.
- If you have a single-lever faucet, set it to run cold water.
- Flush your refrigerator's water lines for five minutes.
- Make sure the water in your washing machine is running clear before you wash clothes.
Questions? Contact the Customer Emergency Call Center at: (301) 206-4002, 1-800-828-6439 or TTY (301)-206-8345.


text:
OTTUMWA, IOWA -- Ottumwa Regional Health Center has welcomed a new chaplain to the organization.
Pastor Gary Brooks, who is no stranger to Ottumwa, has a wealth of experience in counseling family and friends in a hospital setting. Before returning to Ottumwa, Brooks was a pastor in Oklahoma and served in the same capacity.
Pastor Brooks told KTVO on Thursday that he is very excited to be joining the team at Ottumwa Regional Health Center; and ready to help the community with their spiritual needs.
"It is a new day here at Ottumwa Regional and I enjoy being apart of that new day because we are also going to, in this chapel, start a church service," said Brooks. "I would also like to have communion and maybe a prayer service, maybe every other week. I am also going to have a bible study program over at Pennsylvania Place. So, We are going to be busy taking care of the spiritual needs."
Pastor Brooks added that the current chapel will be expanded in the future, and that the stained glass doors that are currently being stored in the chapel will be apart of the new space.


text:
Lottery Prevents Theft, Finds Ticket's Rightful Owner
Signing the back of his ticket protected a Louisiana Lottery player from theft and derailed an attempt at fraud.Jerry Frith of Denham Springs claimed a $2,300 Lotto prize Monday at Lottery headquarters in Baton Rouge after an investigation by Lottery security officials.The 51-year-old's ticket matched five of the six winning numbers in the Aug. 15 Lotto drawing, but he may never have received the money if not for the watchful eye of Lottery employees.Sherrie Gomez, a woman Frith described as a "now former friend," tried to claim the $2,300 prize as her own at Lottery headquarters in September after Frith gave her some of his Lottery tickets to check for winnings after the drawing. However, Lottery employees were tipped off to the possibility of fraud when they saw that the original signature on the back of the ticket had been signed over with her name in permanent marker. All winning tickets worth more than $600 must be claimed at a Lottery office.Lottery security was called in to investigate. Utilizing sophisticated equipment, Frith's original signature was revealed, signifying him as the rightful ticket owner. The Lottery contacted Frith, who confirmed that he regularly purchases Lottery tickets and always signs the back. "I was amazed how [the Lottery] went out of its way to find me and I'm very grateful," said Frith. "This is my first time winning!"The criminal matter has been turned over to the Baton Rouge Police Department. "We go to great lengths to protect our players and ensure the public's trust," said Lottery President Rose Hudson. "Signing the back of their tickets is the single most important thing our players can do to demonstrate ownership and prevent theft," she said. "Our Sign it Now message and other consumer tips are obviously working-because Mr. Frith signed the back of his ticket, we were able to do our job to deter theft."The Lottery offers players numerous consumer protection tips, in addition to signing the back of tickets. Customer display units located at every Lottery retailer reveal the value of a ticket after being scanned and instruct winners to visit a Lottery office if a prize is over $600, the maximum amount that can be claimed at a retailer. Players can also ask for a print-out of this message, called a validation receipt. More information can be found on the Player Protection section of the Lottery's website.


text:
Thanks for liking this wine! Let your friends on Twitter and Facebook know about it by clicking on the buttons here.
If you've already connected your Twitter account, then you don't need to click on the Twitter button to share your review as it'll be done for you.
Optional: Before you share your wine find with friends, you can pick a score or make a quick tasting note, or both if you like:
Community Reviews
Natalie's Review
Gabbiano Pinot Grigio 2009, Trentino, Veneto, Friuli-Venezia-Giulia, Italy: A crisp, clean, refreshing wine that will cut through the richness of a cream sauce or soft cheese like a knife. This is your wine when you don't want heavy oak or alcohol, just pure refreshment. Notes of lime, grapefruit and lemon zest. Top me up! Drink: 2009-2014. 77990 12.50% XD 750 mL $12.95 Score: 87/100. May 8, 2011 Perfect Pasta Wine Full Review
Already one of our thirsty clan? SIGN IN
You get my Free Newsletter with articles and tips just for signing up below. But for $2.10/mth, the cost of an incredibly tiny coffee at Starbucks, your wine drinking pleasure will soar.
Natalie who?Yes, I'm a certified sommelier and was named the World's Best Wine Writer at the World Food Media Awards. Blah, blah, blah. What really matters is that I know which wines can increase your hedonistic happiness... a lot. Don't worry, spam doesn't pair well with wine!
Want the best wines for your taste and budget?
Try my premium service...


text: Yahoo Football By Aaron James September 17, 2011 3:44 PM Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Category: Share on Facebook Share on Twitter More Leave a comment Send to a friend! Print this page Pin it! Reddit This! Share on Tumblr! More From WYRK Cafe Charges Extra For Rude Behavior WYRK 2014 Taste Of Country FAQs Today We Honor Veteran Paul Ministero As This Week's Hometown Hero! Tyler Szpara Is Our Good Kid Of The Week Best of the Web ZergNet


text:
Eastern European Restaurants with ATM
Places (145)
Showing 1 - 10 of 145
Nola's BBQ and Velvet Room
Category: Restaurants/Barbecue
The New Orleans, La., Original Waterfront Barbecue Co., \\"Nola\\" as it is known to its customers, opened in 2004 and is known for the four-way...
Reunion Inn
Category: Restaurants/Restaurants
Menu features seafood dishes, steak, burgers. You'll find prime rib on the menu Thursdays and Saturdays. Sunday blues barbecue starts at 3 p.m....
Sticky Lips BBQ Juke Joint
Category: Restaurants/Sandwiches
pSticky Lips BBQ is a 1940s- and 1950s-era barbecue joint that offers ribs, burgers, steak, pork, seafood and much more. Vegetarian options are also...
Finger Lakes Racing Assn Inc
Category: Restaurants/American
The Finger Lakes racing location has been open since 1962. Since there have been many improvements and additions. The location currently offers a...
Louie's Cordial Lounge
Category: Restaurants/American Regional
Louie's Cordial Lounge is one that provides a quality level of adult entertainment for anyone 21 years or older. Louie's Cordial Lounge is open...
TR Noonan'[s Pub
Category: Restaurants/Restaurants
Open Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to midnight; Fridays and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Main Street Bar & Grill
Category: Restaurants/American Regional
Main Street Bar & Grill is located downtown within walking distance of the convention center, the Blue Cross Arena, and Frontier Field. Come on the...
Category: Restaurants/Greek
pTucked in at the Northfield Commons along the Erie Canal in Pittsford. Olives Greek Taverna serves Greek-inspired dishes including salads, pizzas,...
On The Rocks
Category: Restaurants/Bar Food
Homemade soups and marinara sauce are made fresh by the owner.
Churchville Family Restaurant
Category: Restaurants/Pancakes
Churchville Family Restaurant features a plentiful, affordable menu. Their regular customers are heavy during breakfast hours, but the restaurant...


text:
Cette page n'a pas encore été traduite en Français.
We are showing you the French version of our site: would you prefer a different location?
Vous visitez la version française de notre site internet. Voulez-vous changer de version?
Rapha Continental Rides
Ride Archive
So what characterises a Rapha Continental ride? The Rapha Continental is not touring. The Rapha Continental will take you through spectacular scenery; it may even allow you to savour authentic artisan cuisine. But the Rapha Continental is about riding hard. It's about riding far and riding fast. The Rapha Continental is about being tested: by distance; by duration; and by the mishaps, mechanicals – and crashes – that occur precisely when it seems things can't get any worse. The Rapha Continental is about those moments familiar to every tired rider, those moments when you feel your sanity fading with the sunlight.
United Kingdom
South East Asia
North America
- 337
- Six Gap
- Talimena Loop
- Jasper Disaster
- Rapha Continental Pacific Northwest
- Rapha Continental The Movie
- Lincoln Continental
- Rouge Roubaix
- Alberta, Canada avec Alex Stieda
- Buffalo Pass
- Mississippi Delta
- Fremont Peak
- Killing Me Softly
- Black Hills
- Blue Mound
- French Broad River
- Six Gap and Brasstown
- Sangre de Christo
- Cold Knob
- Phantom Canyon
- Lost River Barn
- Centre Ramble
- Baxter
- Diabolical Double
- The Four | A Ride With Andy Hampsten
- Flamingo Grande
- Coal Miner
- North Cascades Highway
- Acadia
- Snowy Pass
- Jeremy's Ranch
- Snoqualmie Falls
- Beartooth Pass
- Stevens Pass
- Pintler Loop
- Big Loop - Boise, ID
- Dufur
- Vail to Vail
- Walden Pond
- Ride the Rockies
- Lakes Loop
- Tour of California 2009
- Cloudburst
- Litchfield
- Gibraltar
- Fitchburg
- Occidental
- Mulholland
- Mt. Wilson
- New Paltz
- Dutch Canyon
- Kitsap
- Cycle Oregon
- Amgen Tour of California 2011
- Alsea Falls
- USA Pro Cycling Challenge
- Beach the Reach
- Nestucca
- Lolo Pass
- The Triple Crown, Vancouver BC
- Seattle To Portland
- Tour of the Unknown Coast
- Oregon Echelon Fondo
- Levi's King Ridge GranFondo
- 2010 Cycle Oregon
- Santa Rosa, California with Andy Hampsten
- Nevada with Greg LeMond


text:
Tigers finish regular season at 25-11 overall and 12-6 in SCAC
November 6, 2005
November 6, 2005, Sewanee, Tenn. - DePauw wrapped up the 2005 season with a 3-0 (30-17, 30-28, 30-19) loss to Trinity in their final match at the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference Cross-Divisional.
Ali Pinkston led the Tigers with nine kills and Liz Pollom added six. Sherise Denny totaled 13 assists, while Jenni Zeser led DePauw with 17 digs and Megan Weinheimer had 10. Pollom finished with four blocks with Kim Hamer and Lizzy Ackermann each totaling three. DePauw finished the season at 25-11 overall and 12-6 in the SCAC. Back


text:
Eliut Flores
Caguas, PR
Friend Me
Memorable WinePesquera Gran Reserva
First WineBlack Tower
Unusual Wine ExperienceTaking the wine tour at the Robert Mondavy Winery
Created: May 19, 2012
Wish List
Created: May 13, 2012
Shopping List
Created: May 7, 2012
Already one of our thirsty clan? SIGN IN
You get my Free Newsletter with articles and tips just for signing up below. But for $2.10/mth, the cost of an incredibly tiny coffee at Starbucks, your wine drinking pleasure will soar.
Natalie who?Yes, I'm a certified sommelier and was named the World's Best Wine Writer at the World Food Media Awards. Blah, blah, blah. What really matters is that I know which wines can increase your hedonistic happiness... a lot. Don't worry, spam doesn't pair well with wine!
Want the best wines for your taste and budget?
Try my premium service...


text:
Is Spotify unfair to musicians?
Is $10, or the price of a few Starbucks lattes, really too much to pay for an album? Is $10 really too much to support musicians well enough they'll want to record more music? I still play LPs I bought when I was a teenager, and I can't think of anything else I still use from that part of my life. Those records are, if anything, more valuable to me now then they were then. I'm old enough to remember when record companies were freaking out about kids making cassette copies of albums, but producer and engineer … Read more


text:
Join Orbitz Rewards - It's FREE! One click and you're in!
Virginia Hotels
Virginia Hotels
Virginia, known as the gateway of the south, is famous for its great outdoor and historic destinations, including the beautiful Virginia Beach, the Appalachian Mountains, and historic Williamsburg. There is a wide range of options for hotels in Virginia, including bed and breakfasts inns, budget hotels, mountain cabins, and luxurious beachfront resorts. While staying in Virginia Beach, visit the Grand Ocean Hotel, located near the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Center and the famous Neptune Statue.
Virginia Quick Picks and Tips
There are many unique shopping options near hotels Virginia. Enjoy funky fashion outlets like 29 Vines in Purcellville, A Likely Yarn in Abington, and 12 Historic Squares of High Street Shopping at Portsmouth.
Guests at Virginia hotels can treat themselves to the best of Southern home cooking. While in Richmond, visit Mama J's Kitchen for fried chicken. Enjoy fresh seafood at One Fish-Two Fish in Virginia Beach.
Catch a Virginia Destroyers football game at the Virginia Beach Sportsplex on Landstown Road, or enjoy a minor league baseball game with the Norfolk Tides at Harbor Park. The Norfolk Admirals ice hockey team plays home games at the Norfolk Scope arena on Brambleton Avenue.
Major Points of Interest
Virginia is home to several historic sites, including the famous Appomattox Court House National Historic Park, Historic Jamestowne in Williamsburg, and three founding fathers' homes in Charlottesville.
Virginia hosts many festivals and events throughout the year. The Virginia State Fair is held each September in Caroline County and features local food, crafts, and entertainment. See the unique annual Chincoteague Pony Swim and Auction in July.
Places of Interest
Recently booked Virginia hotels
Hotel | Last booked | Stars | Price from |
Crowne Plaza RICHMOND DOWNTOWN
Downtown Richmond
36 minutes ago | $84 | |
BEST WESTERN Rosslyn/Iwo Jima | 1 hour ago | $63 | |
Days Inn Arlington/Washington DC | 7 hours ago | $55 | |
La Quinta Inn & Suites Norfolk Airport | 8 hours ago | $52 | |
Hyatt Arlington | 10 hours ago | $75 | |
The Virginian Suites, an Ascend Hotel Collection Member | 13 hours ago | $79 | |
Fairfield Inn & Suites Richmond Northwest
Glen Allen
14 hours ago | $69 | |
Oceanaire Resort
16 hours ago | $78 | |
Econo Lodge North | 19 hours ago | $42 | |
The Berkeley Hotel
Downtown Richmond
19 hours ago | $101 |
Recently Rated Virginia Hotels
Hotel | Reviews | Stars | Price from |
BEST WESTERN Rosslyn/Iwo Jima |
3.6 / 5
221 reviews
$63 | |
BEST WESTERN PLUS Sandcastle Beachfront Hotel
3.4 / 5
132 reviews
$69 | |
The Berkeley Hotel
Downtown Richmond
4.2 / 5
34 reviews
$101 | |
Radisson Hotel Reagan National Airport |
3.8 / 5
351 reviews
$79 | |
Candlewood Suites NORFOLK AIRPORT |
4.1 / 5
8 reviews
$73 | |
Red Roof Charlottesville - University of VA |
3.4 / 5
89 reviews
$69 | |
Hyatt Place Charlottesville |
4.4 / 5
5 reviews
$95 | |
Comfort Inn University |
3.5 / 5
8 reviews
$79 | |
Newcastle Hotel
3.3 / 5
50 reviews
$48 | |
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Washington DC-Crystal City |
3.7 / 5
85 reviews
$46 |
Featured Virginia Hotels
Budget-friendly Arlington hotel with on-site pizza restaurant and bar The budget-friendly Best Western Rosslyn/Iwo Jima is just outside of D.C., in Arlington, Va., a few blocks from the Rosslyn... More
Nestled at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Albemarle County, Charlottesville has become a popular culinary destination complemented by our award winning local vineyards and breweries. ... More
3 The Barclay Towers Resort Hotel
Virginia Beach, Virginia
FREE Continental Breakfast
Residential-style oceanfront hotel with indoor pool, free breakfastFamilies and other vacationers value the beachfront address of this all-suite hotel. The boardwalk is just outside the Barclay... More
4 La Quinta Inn & Suites Norfolk Airport
Norfolk, Virginia
Save up to 13% on your stay
Budget Norfolk hotel with free breakfast and indoor pool and hot tubTravelers on a budget flock to La Quinta Inn & Suites Norfolk Airport less than two miles from Norfolk International Airport.... More
Enjoy southern hospitality in contemporary, river-view setting The Omni Richmond Hotel, in the heart of the city's financial and historic districts, spoils guests with its views of the James... More
The Virginian Suites, an Ascend Collection hotel is minutes from downtown Washington, D.C., nestled in the beautiful, trendy district of Rosslyn in Arlington, VA. The Rosslyn Metro Station, shops... More
Red Roof Inn Charlottesville University of Virginia (UVA) is Non-Smoking, pet friendly, family friendly hotel. This hotel is close to the University of Virginia (UVA), Charlottesville-Albemarle... More
8 BEST WESTERN PLUS Oceanfront Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Save 15% on your stay
Virginia Beach boardwalk hotel with seafood restaurant and poolsThe Best Western Oceanfront Virginia Beach attracts its share of visitors thanks to a beachfront address and on-site seafood... More
Newly renovated full service hotel located in the heart of the entertainment district adjacent to Chrysler Hall and Scope Arena. Within walking distance to MacArthur Mall and Granby Street. All... More
Historic department store building now houses hotel in downtown Richmond The former Miller and Rhoads Department Store building in downtown Richmond now houses a 250-room Hilton Garden Inn, a... More
Easy Access to Metro Free High Speed Wireless Internet access in all rooms and public spaces Free Continental Breakfast Public Transit available Smoking rooms available Kitchen units Free local... More
Guests will find numerous recreational activities within a short distance. Every room is fully equipped with complimentary wireless highspeed internet. Cable tv/ 37 inch flat screen tv/ electronic... More
13 Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Virginia Beach (Oceanfront), VA
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Save 20% on your stay
Located on Beach/Boardwalk in "The Heart of Virginia Beach". The hotel offers an indoor heated pool, fitness center, guest laundry facilities, free wireless internet, an oceanfront restaurant, free... More
The only waterfront hotel in NorfolkThe Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel, an AAA Diamond Award winner, boasts an enviable address in downtown Norfolk: It is the only waterfront hotel in the city.... More
Four-diamond comforts in Richmond's Shockoe Slip The Berkeley Hotel opened in 1988, but the attention to detail leads most visitors to believe it is much older. The hotel stands at the... More
Stylish Arlington hotel near jogging trails, Metro and Reagan NationalThe Hyatt Arlington has stylish rooms and suites located just outside of D.C., in Arlington, Virginia. The hotel is a block... More
17 Hampton Inn & Suites Charlottesville-At The University
Charlottesville, Virginia
a vacation city fit for a queen...welcome to the Hampton Inn & Suites Charlottesville-At The University. The stunning brick streets, charming restaurants and lovely shops of downtown... More
Virginia Beach oceanfront hotel with restaurant, indoor pool, balconiesGuests at the Oceanfront Inn enjoy the seaside setting right from their balconies and the boardwalk cafe. Major attractions,... More
Located on Brambleton Ave in Downtown Norfolk, VA, the Residence Inn by Marriott Norfolk Downtown offers ideal accommodations for short or long stays in Norfolk. Guests will be at ease when... More
Spacious suites and rich history at this Richmond hotel The historic Commonwealth Park Suites Hotel is located across from the Virginia State Capital building and just a short walk to... More


text:
Richard Branson
Richard Branson is the founder of United Kingdom-based Virgin Group, which consists of more than 400 companies around the world including the airlines Virgin Atlantic and Virgin America, wireless company Virgin Mobile and international health club Virgin Active.
Branson started his first business when he was 16 and in 1972, opened a chain of record stores that kick-started his Virgin brand. His business ventures have ranged from a vodka line to financial services to a private 74-acre island for rent to space tourism. He is the author of six books including his latest, Like a Virgin: Secrets They Won't Teach You at Business School (Portfolio Trade, 2012).
For more from Branson on business, visit his blog on virgin.com.
Questions from readers will be answered by Richard Branson in future columns. Please include your name and country when you send your question to email@example.com.
30 Recent Stories
Richard Branson on Turning an Idea Into a Business
Regardless of how new you are to the process of starting a business, it can be a daunting prospect. The Virgin CEO shares how to do it, step by step.Richard Branson on Taking a Stand for What's Right
Your business -- be it small or large -- has the opportunity and responsibility to do good in your community.Richard Branson on Knowing When to Give Up on Your Idea
Starting and growing a business can be an emotional roller coaster. But when profits aren't generating, how do you know when it's time to throw in the towel?Richard Branson on Knowing When to Quit Your Day Job
Leaving a stable job to pursue your startup full-time takes courage. Here's why you should take the leap.Richard Branson on Embracing Failure
It can be hard to start a new when you already have one startup failure under your belt. But overcoming the fear of failure is your first step to success. Here's how.Richard Branson on How to Make The Most of Your Network
If you're sitting at your desk all day long without taking time to meet with employees, coworkers, clients and others in your network, you're missing key business opportunities.Richard Branson on Studying Entrepreneurship in College
Focusing your college studies in entrepreneurship could be the right move for you depending on your goals.Richard Branson on The Art of Asking For Advice
When you're just starting out, asking the right questions to the right people can be your difference between failure and success.Richard Branson on How Small Businesses Can Innovate
Just because your business isn't loaded with resources, doesn't mean you can't come up with important innovations. Virgin's CEO on how to get there.Richard Branson on Reaching For The Stars -- Literally
With the launch of Virgin Galactic's first commercial trip to space approaching, a look at how to energizes your company mission and team to reach higher.Richard Branson on Why Hiring Should Be Your No. 1 Job
There are lots of tasks you can and should delegate, says Virgin's CEO, but hiring isn't one of them.Richard Branson on Building Brand Loyalty
The Virgin CEO shares how he was able to build a company culture based on customer service.Richard Branson on the Secret to Virgin's Sustained Success
Running a successful ever-growing business means having to set certain best practices in place. Here's how Virgin's CEO does it.Richard Branson on Leadership Lessons from the Unflappable Steve Jobs
Get a handful of successful entrepreneurs around a table and you'll learn some valuable leadership lessons. Here's what Virgin's CEO has learned from one of the finest.Richard Branson on How to Take an Inspiration Vacation
Virgin's CEO shares insight on how to think about your vacation time as inspiration time, even after the fact.Richard Branson on How Music Can Save Your Business
Music has the power to motivate, inspire and engage. Here's how you can host events that will get employees and customers excited about your business.Richard Branson on Being Social Media Savvy
The Virgin CEO offers insight on how to make your posts and company stand out in the social media world.Richard Branson on Preparing the Perfect Pitch
You need to be prepared to pitch your business anywhere, anytime. Virgin's CEO offers his insight on just how to be pitch-ready wherever you are.Richard Branson on the Best Places to Find Inspiration
Getting inspired to start a new business means paying attention to the world around you. Here's how Virgin's CEO seeks out his own inspiration.Richard Branson on Crafting Your Mission Statement
The CEO of Virgin shares how to cut the crap and make a mission statement that actually means something.How Richard Branson Decides Where to Set Up Shop
Virgin's CEO shares what factors you need to consider when choosing the best place to open up shop.Richard Branson on Business Lessons From Parenting
The CEO of Virgin has seen a lot of challenges in his career, but perhaps none as big as becoming a dad. Here he discusses the similarities between parenting and running a business.Richard Branson on Taking the Leap Into Entrepreneurship
Telling friends and family you're going to start your own business is often just as scary as actually taking the plunge. Virgin's CEO offers advice on how to get those you love on-board.Richard Branson on Social Entrepreneurship
Finding new ways to improve people's lives is at the core of entrepreneurship. Virgin's CEO talks about how and why small businesses can get involved in social entrepreneurship.Richard Branson on Taking Risks
Stepping out of your comfort zone is unavoidable if you want to truly grow your business. Virgin's CEO discusses some of his own risky decisions and how they helped him grow an empire.Richard Branson on Self-Awareness for Leadership Growth
Being more self-aware will help you improve as a leader. Virgin's CEO discusses how and why you can do this.Richard Branson on the Secret to Success: Failure.
If you haven't failed yet, you haven't been in the business long enough, says Virgin's CEO. Here he offers advice on three key attributes every entrepreneur should possess in order to be successful.Richard Branson on the Business Benefits of Volunteering
Getting employees involved in charity sporting events and volunteer work this spring is a great way to give back to the community and strengthen your team. Here's how Virgin's CEO does it.Richard Branson on Parenting and Work-Life Balance
Running your own business and raising a family often go hand-in-hand, but finding a balance can be challenging. Virgin's CEO on how he managed to raise two kids while building a business.Richard Branson on How to Stay Inspired
When Virgin's CEO has an idea, he doesn't keep quiet about it. Talking about your ideas, no matter how lofty they are, is one of the best ways to stay inspired and motivated to make them happen. Here'Most Shared Stories
The 10 Most Corrupt and Least Corrupt Countries in the World
Richard Branson on Turning an Idea Into a Business
SecondMarket CEO: Wall Street Will Put 'Hundreds of Millions' Into Bitcoin
10 Strategies for Overcoming Creativity Block
12 Successful Entrepreneurs Share the Best Advice They Ever Got
Trending Now
Featured Apps from
Blackjack Multiplayer
Enigmatic Flare
Flying Felix
Giant Leap Games