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Information Read the current Emessay Notes from the MSANA Read the current Focus newsletter from the Masonic Information Center Recognition ChartsPDF files for download, compiled by the MSANA - updated for 2013 Grand Lodges Recognized by US Grand Lodges Grand Lodges Recognized by Canadian Grand Lodges For a simple search of the entire web site, enter your word(s) here. For more complex searches, use the Advanced Search. |
Who are We?The Masonic Service Association of North America (MSANA) was formed in 1919 to provide services to its member Grand Lodges that they would find difficult to provide for themselves. Thus the national voice that the MSA has is dedicated to Service to the Masonic community. Active Appeals Appeal for the PhilippinesAppeal for NY and NJ for Hurricane Sandy The Green Envelope Appeal raises funds for the Hospital Visitation Program. The primary functions and activities of the MSANA are:
Latest News from the MSANADisaster Relief Appeal Summary During 2013So far during 2013, there has been much generosity shown by the Masonic world in assisting in relief for others. Here is a summary of what MSA has been doing:
Disaster Relief Appeal for the PhilippinesMasonic Service Association has established a Disaster Relief Fund for the Philippines, with all donations to be transferred directly to the Grand Lodge of the Philippines for distribution to those in need. The news media has communicated the enormous damage caused by Typhoon Haiyan to the Philippines on November 8. While it is too soon to determine the final extent of the loss of life and destruction of buildings, we know the suffering is extensive and will be long lasting. Read more and contribute to the Appeal for the Philippines. Masonic Service Association Moves To New LocationThe new office is modern, less costly, and will better meet the future needs of MSA as it serves our Fraternity in the 21st Century. The new offices are about 10 miles away from its long-time headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland. The new address is: The relocation has required New Contact Numbers and Addresses. Our new telephone numbers are: Please note: The phone number has changed from what was publicized as "new" in recent mailings. The telephone company gave MSA one number then changed it after we had sent out the information. Also, we have a new email address: Please adjust your records with this new information. Masonic Charity Efforts Abound; More Disaster Relief for OklahomaA check for $100,000 was sent this week to the Grand Lodge of Oklahoma to assist in the relief efforts following the devastating tornados that struck portions of the state in May. A Masonic Service Association Disaster Relief Appeal was made shortly after the storm. Individual Masons, Lodges, and Grand Lodges have been very generous in contributing to the relief effort. Since the appeal was made, a total of $165,000 has been sent to Oklahoma to aid victims of the tornados. Contributions continue to come in to MSA. This was the first MSA Disaster Relief Appeal in which donations were accepted through online gifts on this web site. In fact, in the first 48 hours after the appeal was issued, some $650 was received online – days before any check could be delivered through the regular mail service. Contribute to the Appeal for Oklahoma. Maryland Masons Aid Boston Marathon Bombing VictimThe Masons and Grand Lodge of Maryland have assisted a victim of the Boston Marathon bombing last April. Read the whole story and see the accompanying video. : Successful St. John's Day Service in Fort Wayne, INEach year, on the closest Sunday to St. John's Day in June, Trinity Episcopal Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana, invites the Masons and their families to attend their 10 a.m. Eucharist Service. This year, Indiana's Grand Master Mark A. Genung and Deputy Grand Master Daniel J. Barenie participated. Every participant in the service was a Mason or member of a Masonic Family. This included Trinity's Rector, the Rev. Dr. Thomas P. Hansen (a member of Wayne Lodge and now serving as 1st Lieutenant Commander of the Scottish Rite Valley of Fort Wayne), the Deacon Rev. Gordon Samra (a member of Waynesdale Lodge), the Thurifer, 2 servers at the communion altar, 2 lesson readers, the greeters and ushers. Even the Associate Rector, the Rev. Betty Frolich, is a former Rainbow Girl from Athens, OH. The Grand Master read the prayers of the people, and he and the Deputy Grand Master carried the communion elements. Click here for a larger picture of those who stayed afterward for coffee and rolls. According to one active Mason in the congregation, James DeMond, "Father Tom's sermon related some of Saint John's life and values to what he would expect us to carry forward. There are 22 Masons in the Parish; they are counted among the most active parishioners." Back By Popular Demand: Founding Fathers MembershipMasonic Membership of the Founding Fathers, originally published in 1965, was allowed to go "out of print" a couple of years ago, but customer demand for the publication has resulted in a 2013 reprinting. It is now available from MSA for $9, plus shipping, and can be purchased online as well. This 164-page book, written by Ronald E. Heaton, had been reprinted earlier in 1974, 1988, and 1997, prior to this year's reissuing. It examines the evidence of Masonic membership of 241 Revolutionary-era patriots. Queen of Sheba Visits King Solomon in Famous PaintingThe current Short Talk Bulletin (June, 2013) relates many factors surrounding the often-told story of the Queen of Sheba visiting King Solomon. Of the dozens of paintings that have been drawn depicting this event, perhaps the best is the painting by Sir Edward John Poynter in 1890. Please click here to see that full painting. The author of this Short Talk Bulletin, Ronald Gale, of Australia, notes that 7 films, 16 books, 1 operatic musical, 1 television program, 1 ballet feature, 3 poems, 21 songs, and about 70 paintings have used the theme of Queen of Sheba visiting King Solomon. Oklahoma Continues To Be Target of Bad Weather; MSA Disaster Relief Appeal ContinuesThe ferocious weather that has been hammering Oklahoma continues. After the tornados that caused much damage and loss of life a few weeks ago, more storms, including more tornados, and flooding have occurred. Noted Masonic writer James Tresner, of Guthrie, OK, describes what happened this past weekend at a meeting, with the Grand Master present: Author Dan Brown Comments on FreemasonryDan Brown, author of the Da Vinci Code and more recently The Lost Symbol, was interviewed recently by The Independent, a publication in the United Kingdom, in which he makes some very interesting comments about Freemasonry. The interview actually took place in London in Freemason's Hall, the headquarters of the United Grand Lodge of England. Brown's latest book, Inferno, is now on sale. Here is a link to read the interview story in The Independent. Disaster Relief Appeal for OklahomaMSA has established a Disaster Relief Fund for Oklahoma, with all donations to be transferred directly to the Grand Lodge of Oklahoma for distribution to those in need. A series of tornadoes ripped through Moore, Oklahoma, on May 20 leaving a path of death and destruction for this community, a suburb of Oklahoma City. The toll of the damage to life and property is still growing. Read more about how you can help Popularity of 'One Hundred One Questions' ContinuesThe MSA Pocket Digest, "One Hundred One Questions About Freemasonry" – reprinted this year for the 31st time – has proven itself as a Masonic education guide that can seamlessly move through generations. According to its Foreword: As a Pocket Digest, it was copyrighted in 1955. Its 8th printing was in 1962 and its 30th printing was in 2009. This year's 31st printing, a 70-page digest, is now available by mail from the MSA office or online using a credit card at MSA's Online Store at shopping.msana.com. ($3.50 plus $3.00 shipping and handling for each copy.) Carl Claudy, Executive Secretary of the Masonic Service Association from 1929 to 1957, was the original author of "One Hundred One Questions About Freemasonry," among his many Short Talk Bulletins and other writings. The digest's basic Masonic information is perfect for Lodge education meetings, or as filler material for Lodge newsletters. The Foreword, written more than 50 years ago, says, "The book is designed for any Mason of an inquiring mind, but should be especially useful to instructors in the ritual." "Who Are The Masons" Hits 1 Million CopiesA new reprinting of the brochure, "Who Are The Masons? And What Do They Do?" has pushed total distribution for that item to 1 million copies. Since it was first printed in 1999, it has become the most popular publication ever issued by the Masonic Information Center. It is a colorful brochure that gives an overview of Freemasonry, and lists dozens of famous persons who are or were Masons. "Who Are The Masons" is perfect for handing out to non-members at open houses or "friendship dinners." It is available for purchase. Visit out "Online Store" for full information. MIC Ends Mark Twain Award CompetitionNew Initiatives in Masonic Awareness PlannedIn 2006, the Masonic Information Center, an arm of the Masonic Service Association of North America, launched the Mark Twain Award for Excellence in Masonic Awareness, planning to sponsor the Award for three years. With growing Lodge participation, the competition was extended for an additional four years. Now, having completed its 7th year and having recognized 129 winners, MIC feels it is being pulled to serve new initiatives, and no Twain Award will be offered in 2013. "We deeply appreciate the participation of hundreds of Lodges and the positive Masonic journeys that entrants have traveled with their Brethren and their communities," said George Braatz, MSA Executive Secretary. "Across the country, I have personally met with and heard from dozens of participants, telling stories of how the Twain Award guided their Lodges back to a position of strength in the community. Time and again, I heard that the Twain Award guidelines provided simple processes through which their Lodges rekindled their enthusiasm for our Masonic identities and respect for our historical Fraternity." "In our seven years of experience with the program, we witnessed how the principles and procedures used by Mark Twain Award competitors have proven themselves as successful avenues to greater Masonic awareness. These practices can be easily perpetuated without the necessity of an award program," Braatz said. "We encourage Lodges to continue to use these methods for their own success, even though there will be no trophy at the end." Although the contest ends, its resources will remain archived online and available to Lodges needing examples of success stories and tips on moving forward. Much has changed throughout the world since MIC released its 2004 report to the Grand Masters, "It's about Time," in which MIC proposed that moving Masonry into the 21st Century meant making a call to action and moving away from lethargy. Research led to the proposal of the Mark Twain Award as an incentive, geared primarily for Lodges looking for extra tips on how to break free of old habits that inhibited both Masonic participation and Lodge potential. In this different world of global cyber communications, MIC plans to focus on Masonic awareness and Masonic service in new ways, such as our recent offering of Masonic information publications in an online store. 22 New Mark Twain Award Winners AnnouncedThe Masonic Information Center has named 22 new recipients of the Mark Twain Award for Masonic Awareness for 2012, representing 16 different Grand Lodge Jurisdictions. The announcement was made at the Annual Conference of Grand Masters in Kansas City on February 17. Winners were chosen after they provided detailed submission information to MIC's Task Force. Lodge programs that provide improved Masonic awareness, both to the Lodge's own members, as well as to the community, are the basis of the judging. The winning Lodges receive an impressive award for their success. This concludes the 7th Annual Mark Twain Award program. The 8th Annual Program will be discussed on this webpage soon. The MIC is a communications arm of the Masonic Service Association of North America. See the 2012 winners of the Mark Twain Award. MSA Official Appointed to National Veterans Advisory Committee George O. Braatz, Executive Secretary of the Masonic Service Association of North America (MSANA), has been appointed to represent MSANA on the National Advisory Committee for the U.S. Veterans Administration Voluntary Services. It will be the first time in many years for a Masonic representative to serve in an advisory capacity for the VAVS. Brother Braatz said that during his two-year term he would work to strengthen the relationship between Freemasonry and our military Veterans. The Masonic Service Association for more than 50 years has administered a Hospital Visitation Program at virtually all VA medical facilities in the country, as well as at a variety of state Veterans homes or military hospitals. MSA is one of 57 national groups – and the only Masonic one – certified by the VA to work in and provide services to our military Veterans in VA facilities. MSA coordinates about 184 certified Coordinators and Hospital Representatives in the U.S., plus works with more than 1,000 other Masonic volunteers who assist at VA hospital and medical centers. Brother Braatz is a Past Grand Master and Grand Secretary Emeritus of the Grand Lodge of Ohio. Annual Disaster Appeal SummaryThe generosity of Masons and Masonic Lodges shined brightly in 2012 as more than $316,000 was received and distributed as part of Masonic Service Association Disaster Relief Appeals. MSA appeals are only issued when requested by a Grand Lodge. All monies received are returned to that Grand Lodge for local distribution. Here is the 2012 breakdown:
The Hurricane Sandy relief effort is continuing into 2013, and there will be more distributions to New York and New Jersey. The entire list of MSA Disaster Relief distributions of donations since 1923 can be viewed here. In 2013, MSANA celebrates three milestones
Within a few years after its creation in 1919, the Masonic Service Association began to implement more avenues of service to the Fraternity. One was supplying educational materials. Thus was formed the Short Talk Bulletin. Volume I, Number 1 was published in January 1923, on the subject, "Paul Revere." Over the past nine decades, MSA has issued 105 Disaster Appeals and distributed some $9.5 million in relief. The full listing of all disaster appeals in the 90 years can be found on by clicking here. The full story of these milestones is detailed in the January 2013 Short Talk Bulletin. Download the subscription order form (PDF). Disaster Relief Appeal for New York and New JerseyThe entire Atlantic Coast of the United States was buffeted in the last few days of October by the winds and waves of Hurricane Sandy, described by the news media as a "super storm." After crossing the shoreline in New Jersey, the storm continued inland. Extensive building and property damage, electrical outages, unhealthy conditions cause by flooding, and widespread disruption of normal living conditions have occurred in a multi-state region. In particular, New York City and the coastal areas of New Jersey felt the brunt of Sandy. The Grand Lodges of New York and New Jersey have requested a Disaster Appeal to assist their Masonic families who have been injured or who have received extensive damage to their homes. Read more about how you can help 2012 Green Envelope Appeal Letter Features Medal of Honor RecipientBrother Sammy L. Davis, a Vietnam Veteran and recipient of the Medal of Honor, is the featured writer in this year's Green Envelope Appeal, which helps fund the Masonic Service Association's Hospital Visitation Program. This year's appeal was mailed in early November to many friends and associates of the MSA across the continent. "We are very proud to have a decorated, distinguished, and sincere Veteran to be our appeal author this year," said George O. Braatz, P.G.M., Executive Secretary of MSA. Brother Davis became a Master Mason in 2003 in Union Village Lodge in Indiana, and received the 33rd Degree in Scottish Rite Masonry from the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction in Cleveland in August, August 2012. Click here to view the full Green Envelope Appeal Letter. Program to Help Homeless Military Veterans The Masonic Service Association is cooperating with the Veterans Administration in its effort to eliminate homelessness of military veterans by 2015. In early, January 2011, it was reported that more than 65,000 veterans were homeless, and while this number has been decreasing, MSA agrees with the VA that this total is still "unacceptable." MSA is helping by trying to spread the word. If you are a veteran in need of assistance, or if you know a veteran who is homeless or at risk of homelessness, there is help available. The National Call Center for Homeless Veterans hotline, toll-free, is 1-877-424-3939. Make this call if you know of someone in need. Also, go to www.va.gov/homeless for more information and other assistance in organizing local programming for this effort. Veterans nationwide are eligible for comprehensive, coordinated access to health care, housing, employment, education, job counseling and training, and justice system assistance and benefits. Remember, the words "homeless" and "veteran" should never be used together. Thank you! New Brochure Highlights Masonry's Historic Contributions To SocietyKey historical trends, which were either initiated or advanced by Masonry, are described in a new brochure published by the Masonic Information Center. "What Has Masonry Done for the World?" is aimed at both Masons and non-Masons. The societal innovations influenced by Masonry include Individualism, Democracy, Human Rights, the Rights of Workers, the Arts and Architecture, Public Education, Health, and Personal Development and Fulfillment. The pamphlet is an excellent tool to build pride and respect for the Fraternity in the heart of any Mason, regardless of the length of their time in the Craft. "What Has Masonry Done for the World?" also is perfect for reading by families and friends of Masons, or for handing to non-Masons who may show an interest in Masonry. It is great for giving to visitors at open houses, fairs, and other public events. The brochure was written by noted Masonic author James Tresner, of Oklahoma. MIC gives thanks to the Grand Lodge of Oklahoma for permitting adaptation of its previous pamphlet. This brochure will be sold only in lots of 50*. 50 @ .27 = $13.50 Send orders to Masonic Service Association, 8120 Fenton St., Suite 203, Silver Spring, MD 20910-4785. Historic Book Now a Bargain for Stamp-Collecting EnthusiastsThe Masonic Service Association is offering a bargain for an historic stamp-collecting book. The 50-page publication, "Masonic Philately," traces all postage stamps of the U.S. and Canada that relate to any Freemason during a 141-year period, from 1847 to 1988. The book was written by Christopher Leo Murphy, an active Mason from British Columbia, and was published by the MSA in 1990. Since its publication, the books have been sold by MSA for $3.50 per copy, but it is now on sale for $1.00 per copy, plus shipping and handling, as long as the supply lasts. According to author Murphy, the booklet is a good "starter" for those interested in Class II U.S. and Canadian stamps (those that show a Freemason or the name of such). "It provides a good foundation," he said. The publication is filled with names, dates, identifying information, and artwork of the stamps. Anyone interested should send a check to the Masonic Service Association, 8120 Fenton Street, Silver Spring, MD 20910. For single copies, the cost is $2.00 ($1.00 for the book and $1.00 for S&H). For the cost of shipping and handling for multiple copies, add $3.00 for orders up to $5.00; add $6.50 for orders up to $10.00; and add $7.50 for orders up to $20.00. For more information, email MSA at firstname.lastname@example.com or call at 301-588-4010. Short Talk Bulletin Subscription UpdateThe Masonic Service Association has published the Short Talk Bulletin (STB) monthly since 1923, and its reservoir of past issues includes countless topics of Masonic information and education. See the current Catalog for a complete list of past issues, all of which are still available. You can browse the catalog online or download a PDF copy. MSA has announced that the subscription rate for the STB will be increased to $12 a year, beginning March 1, 2013. The new rate equals $1 per issue and includes postage costs. But until March 1, new subscriptions may be obtained at the prevailing rate of $8 per year. Also, current subscriptions may be extended for up to 3 years at the current rate. Click here to download the orderform. Annual MSA Membership Statistics for 2011The 2011 Membership statistics have been received and there are 1,336,503 Masons in the United States. This represents a decrease of 36,950 from 2010, or about 2.7 %. In addition, there are 84,182 Masons in Canada. The Masonic Service Association has been gathering these membership statistics since 1924 and sharing the results with the Grand Lodges in the United States and Canada. The full reports, showing 2011 and 2010 figures and the gains or losses, for all U.S. and Canadian Grand Lodges can be reviewed by clicking below. The complete list of U.S. membership statistics since 1924 is also available. Read the 2011 Membership Report 2.5 Million Reached by MIC PamphletsSince 1993, the Masonic Information Center (MIC), the information arm of the Masonic Service Association, has been educating Masonic members and the public with accurate explanations of what Freemasonry is. A recent tally shows that 6 major pamphlets published over the years by the MIC have been distributed to more than 2.5 million individuals. The publications, and their printing quantity over the years, are:
All of the pamphlets are still in print and available in quantity from MSA. For more information about the MSANA, |
MSANA Services | Publications | Information Center | Mark Twain Award | About Freemasonry | Links | Search | Privacy Masonic Service Association Tel:
(301) 476-7330 Fax:
(301) 476-9440 Toll-free: 855-476-4010 |


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Great news. I like how his art has progressed over the years, and it should provide an interesting look for USM now that Mark's moving on...
Great news. I like how his art has progressed over the years, and it should provide an interesting look for USM now that Mark's moving on...
He'll be great.
I wonder if he'll use the sharper style he's been using on Next Wave and Ultimate X-Men, or go for a little rounder look. Either way, he should be a great fit.
For-Real-True is only true now.
Story-True is true forever.
-Lizzie Hexam "The Unwritten"
Oh, thank you God for this wonderful, wonderful day.
This is gonna be awesome.
The day has finally come were I can go against the majority... I detest the art of Immonen. I might just drop USM.
P.S. Today I became a comic book nerd:p
never liked his art so far. But i'll have a look. Like ultimate spider-man too much to cancel without giving it a fair chance :)
Cool. A worthy successor. Hopefully he's around with Bendis for 100+ issues as well. :)
Super Hero Squad Online - Curious Mad General - Current Rank: 1300.
True Believer - Proud Purchaser Of The Marvel Heroes Ultimate Pack!
Meh. Never been impressed with his art. I've pretty much dropped all of my Ultimate books anyway except for the Ultimates, so doesn't really impact me one way or the other.
Well i dont hate it. If he doesnt use his ultimate x-men and nextwave style then i think it will be fine. I mean i just dont think its a great fit.
I have high expectations, but I do believe this is a good choice.
I wasn't really aware of Immonen's art until fairly recently but I like what I see. Definitely looking forwar to the guy's run:)
I've liked him since his Legion work. May even be enough to get me to pick up this book.
Things My Students Say
Here Comes a Regular (the life of a boozer) UPDATED 8/18/11: 9C, depression, bluegrass, Charlie Day
Oh man this is going to be awesome. Great choice, really looking forward to it.
This is surprising! Immonen is one of my favorite artists! I didn't expect him to be put on this book though. I can't wait to see what his work will look like. I know he's got amazing technical skills and is very good at storytelling, but he's so versatile with his style that you can't be sure which one he's going to use. I wouldn't be surprised nor upset if he used the same cartoony style he's used so far throughout his Ultimate work.
I can now die happy.
There's not a better choice out there; I can't freaking wait.

subset: commoncrawl


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The New York City District-Charter Collaboration Compact signed by the Department of Education is a commitment to address issues between district and charter schools. Out of this commitment, the New York City Collaborates was created and through this initiative charter schools have the opportunity to come together share information and dismiss any previous illusions people had of charter schools.
OPEN is shot LIVE from BronxNet's studios and invites viewers to participate through phone or email. The show builds on the station's mission to provide useful information to the Bronx public, while helping young adults develop media careers.
Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday OPEN helps Bronx community organizations share information about issues and services, give exposure to artists working in various media, showcase video art, provide a forum for discussion and debate, and updates viewers about what's happening in the Bronx and beyond.
The hosts are a diverse group o f personalities who interact with the audience via phone calls and internet. Lead hosts include experienced personalities such as WBLS Radio personality Bob Lee, Bronxnet own Executive Producer of Perspectives, Daren Jaime and noted Bronx performer Rhina Valentin. Guest and segment hosts will include newspaper journalists, experts and aspiring journalists who participate in BRONXNET?s journalism production training programs.
It is seen live on Cablevision's channel 68 and Verizon Fios channel 35 every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10:00 am.
Rebroadcast schedule: Monday: 2 am, 5 pm, 10 pm | Tuesday: 2 am, 10am, 5 pm, 10 pm | Wednesday: 2 am, 5 pm, 10 pm | Thursday: 2 am, 10 am, 5 pm, 10 pm | Friday: 2 am, 5 pm & 10 p.m.


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Ted | Movie review
Seth MacFarlane's scattershot Family Guy sensibility is all over his first feature.
As the pop-culture-addled brain behind Family Guy, Seth MacFarlane has carved out his niche as a genius of throw-everything-against-the-wall humor. That scattershot sensibility is all over his first feature, with punch lines involving Katy Perry, Susan Boyle, Lance Armstrong's cancerous testicle, the theme to Octopussy and—in the film's most fertile running joke—the cheesetastic glory of 1980's Flash Gordon whizzing by at warp speed. MacFarlane may be the only filmmaker who'll ape the Zucker brothers and make an actual Zuckers reference (one scene quotes Airplane!'s homage to Saturday Night Fever—a triple meta score!), but the real comic payoff lies in Ted's simple conceit: A lonely boy miraculously wishes his teddy bear into becoming a real live friend. Cut to 30 years later, the now-grown man (Mark Wahlberg) is doing bong hits and talking f-bombed trash with his furry buddy (voiced by MacFarlane), much to the consternation of his long-suffering girlfriend (Mila Kunis).
You can't overestimate how surprisingly funny it is to watch a stuffed bear behave boorishly. But while the adherence to Family Guy's obsessive-compulsive offensiveness and tangential-gag methodology will delight the show's fans, others may find such incessant riffing grafted onto an Apatovian narrative about immaturity to be a mismatched coupling. You can leave childish things behind, Ted tells us, without having to give up the friendships forged during those years. MacFarlane may need to jettison his adolescent belief that cramming every moment with two winks and a zinger exponentially ups the funny before he can hit his real artistic stride.


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Contact Info
7840-B Pine Forest Rd.
Pensacola, FL 32526
850-637-1585 (Office)
850-637-1593 (Fax)
Message from the Founder
Welcome! I am excited that you are here visiting our site, and I want to congratulate you on taking a step forward in your search to find a financial firm to help YOU work towards your financial goals.


text: A luxurious white satin bedding collection the Victor Mill Elegance bedding set will transform your bedroom into a elegant boudoir. Available in Twin, Full, Queen, King sizes the Victor Mill Elegance comforter features a solid white satin ground with medallion embroidery and accented with oversized flange. This collection is also available as a day bed bedding set. The bedskirt features an 18 inch drop in a solid white satin and is accented with split corners. Standard shams feature solid white satin and are finished with a flange. Victor Mill bedding is still made in the USA


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Accelerating the pace of engineering and science
Expand all
Control System Toolbox Overview 1:56
PID Control Design with Control System Toolbox 2:21
Control System Design with Control System Tuning App 4:40
Gain Scheduling of PID Controllers 5:25
Nonlinear Plant Control at Different Operating Points 5:27
DC Motor Control
Temperature Control in a Heat Exchanger
Digital Servo Control of a Hard-Disk Drive
Feedback Amplifier Design
Kalman Filter Design
Yaw Damper Design for a 747® Jet Aircraft
Designing PID for Disturbance Rejection with PID Tuner
Designing Cascade Control System with PI Controllers
Control of Processes with Long Dead Time: The Smith Predictor
Thickness Control for a Steel Beam
Understanding Bode Plots: Why Use Them? (1 of 4) 5:48
Understanding Bode Plots: What Are They? (2 of 4) 5:16
Understanding Bode Plots: Simple Systems (3 of 4) 7:51
Understanding Bode Plots: Complex Systems (4 of 4) 7:17
Using Bode Plots: Closed-Loop Systems (1 of 5) 6:11
Using Bode Plots: Open Loop Shaping (2 of 5) 4:34
Using Bode Plots: Phase and Gain Margins (3 of 5) 6:58
Using Bode Plots: Lead, Lag, PID Controllers (4 of 5) 4:42
Using Bode Plots: DC Motor Control Example (5 of 5) 9:48
Creating Continuous-Time Models
Creating Discrete-Time Models
Connecting Models
Specifying Time Delays
Accessing and Modifying the Model Data
Switching Model Representation
Analyzing the Response of an RLC Circuit
Plotting System Responses
Assessing Gain and Phase Margins
Analyzing Control Systems with Delays
Getting Started with the SISO Design Tool
Compensator Design for Plant Models with Time Delays
Compensator Design for Systems Represented by Frequency Response Data
Compensator Design for a Set of Plant Models
Automated LQG Tracker Design in the SISO Design Tool
Internal Model Control Design for a Chemical Reactor Plant
Discretizing and Resampling Models
Discretizing a Notch Filter
From Arkadiy Turevskiy, Control System Toolbox Technical Expert


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After using a trial subscription to Office 365, you can buy the subscription or choose a different plan or service to purchase.
If additional plans or services are available to you, they will be listed under More offers.
If you buy subscriptions for other plans or services—subscriptions that you haven't used in a trial—you will need to assign users licenses for the new subscriptions after you make your purchase.


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Hunters rewarded for Python Challenge
MIAMI (WSVN) -- Hunters cashed in on their catch, after weeks of scouring the Everglades for pythons.
No, it wasn't the Grammy's or the Oscars. The award ceremony took place at a scaly site at Zoo Miami.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission handed out cash prizes to hunters who took part in the big South Florida snake hunt. "This hunt a lot of people don't realize covered millions of acres of land in the Florida Everglades," said Everglades Council Commissioner Ron Bergeron.
Close to 1,600 people registered for the month-long Burmese python challenge. 68 pythons were killed.
Ruben Ramirez took home $1,500 for catching the most pythons. He caught a total of 18! "I think it worked out good for everybody," said Ramirez. "Nothing bad happened. I met a lot of good people."
Ruben has bagged big snakes before. He showed us a 17-footer he caught over Thanksgiving last year.
On this recent challenge, we took a ride with Ruben and two of his buddies. "If they would have told me that I would be cruising this road looking for Burmese pythons I'd say, 'You're crazy,'" said Ramirez.
Paul Shannon grabbed $1,000 for nabbing the longest python on the hunt.
His snake was a very long 14-feet and three inches. "Then we pretty much searched the islands," said Shannon. "We wear waders. We get out of the boat on the shoreline."
The python problem in the Florida Everglades has grown and has posed a big hazard for the South Florida ecosystem. "You know they eat small mammals," said Nick Wiley. "They eat anything they can catch. They are out there eating our native species."
Wildlife officials said the hunt was a big success. "I definitely suspect that we will do something in this nature again," said Wiley.
The commission also used this python challenge to educate the public about the danger of this non-native species.
(Copyright 2013 by Sunbeam Television Corp. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)


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Cat lovers are a breed of their own and my boyfriend, Steve, is one of them.
My boyfriend, Steve, has a lot of cats. I can't tell you exactly how many because the little critters come and go out the pet door and scatter as their furry little paws please. Steve lives on a farm. Well, it's kind of a farm. I mean, he has a lot of land, but he doesn't exactly grow anything on it except cats from what I've seen. And he has a barn, too. You'd think with all that land...Read On
Added: 11 Oct 2013 | Category: Crossdressing | Avg Score: 3.56 | Tags: cats crossdressing wigs | 5 Comments
a crossdressing shortie
My boyfriend, Allen, is a man's man. Let's get that straight from the start. He rides a Harley and he scoops me up in his big strong arms like I'm light as a feather (which I'm not...let's get that straight from the start, too). So it was a big stretch for me to ask my masculine lover to slip into a pair of silk panties just for me. It was a secret fantasy I'd harbored for years but had...Read On
Added: 07 Oct 2013 | Category: Crossdressing | Avg Score: 4.5 | Tags: crossdressing | 19 Comments
How my first time anal started and happened.
So there is this guy who I've been talking with for awhile. I wasn't too interested because I was still on the edge about meeting up dressed with another person. At the time I was under the influence and I sent him this message. "I have recently been dressing up more as a woman as my family have been busy. I have been eating my cum all dressed up like a sissy! I have been eating my...Read On
Added: 07 Oct 2013 | Category: Crossdressing | Avg Score: 4.86 | Tags: crossdressing first time anal | 29 Comments
Chardonnay wants to show her boyfriend and lover how committed she is to him.
Chardonnay had been Phil's live in sissy lover and constant companion for just coming up to two years. She wanted to do something very special for him and had saved enough money at last. She phoned an exclusive hotel, giving great detail into what she required. She made a few more calls that afternoon while Phil was working. As she finished the last call, she gave a huge grin to herself in...Read On
Added: 19 Sep 2013 | Category: Crossdressing | Avg Score: 4.5 | Tags: crossdressing oral anal wedding night chapagne bottle love commitment | 8 Comments
A man who just can't resist the opportunity to get into his neighbour's knickers
It was a sultry summer night but it wasn't the muggy air that was making me hot. It was my clothes. I'd felt the urge to dress up in a very sexy outfit. My preparations had started much earlier in the day, and they had been thorough: my whole body was clean and smooth, shaved so that there was not the slightest hint of hair anywhere other than on my head. My heart thumped wildly as I...Read On
Added: 15 Sep 2013 | Category: Crossdressing | Avg Score: 4.47 | Tags: crossdressing cum in panties masturbation | 8 Comments
An invitation to a drag show proved to be an invitation to more.
I'd met David through my (now ex) wife. He lived in the Twin Cities with his partner Dennis. His being gay made it very easy for me to talk openly about being Samantha. He hosted a drag show on Saturday nights at a small gay bar so he'd invited me to come along, meet the 'girls' and see the show. I could stay the night so I could go dressed and have a fun 'girl's night out' while he MC'd...Read On
Added: 12 Sep 2013 | Category: Crossdressing | Avg Score: 4.47 | Tags: crossdressing anal blowjob | 10 Comments
Excerpted from the diary of Francesca Hall
Dear Diary; Well, it's been quite a month so far! Of course my big news is that my new boyfriend, Teddie, finally reacted to literally months of me flirting with him, and we finally "did it" last week at the Drama Club's cast party for Our Town . We all had a blast at Mr. Stephen's house and Mr. Stephen's "girlfriend," Sophie, gave me just an excellent face, with eye make-up to die for...Read On
Added: 29 Aug 2013 | Category: Crossdressing | Avg Score: 4.88 | Tags: crossdressing gay love oral sex ass play lasagna | 10 Comments
The drive home from the Cities was always long. After work I had stopped at Kim's to change and emerged as Samantha. I drove to the meeting and then went out for a drink (or maybe two) with some of the other 'girls'. By the time I was half way home my eyes just wouldn't stay open any longer. I decided to pull over in a secluded wayside rest area. If I could just catch a little catnap I knew...Read On
Added: 27 Aug 2013 | Category: Crossdressing | Avg Score: 4.63 | Tags: blowjob reluctant anal lingerie masturbation | 7 Comments
I get more than I bargained on!
Much happened in the next twelve months following that first session with my ex and her new partner: Ann began divorce proceedings which I didn't contest, I financed myself into another home, and Ann, David and I met for two more sessions of torrid sex. These sessions were pretty much replays of the first; I would first screw Ann thoroughly through at least two climaxes, and then she would...Read On
Added: 14 Aug 2013 | Category: Crossdressing | Avg Score: 4.92 | Tags: crossdressing bisexual | 6 Comments
A friend displays her kinkier side
A very curious thing happened to me the other day and I feel I need to share it with you... I have been 'mildly' crossdressing for over a year now. I say 'mildly' because I am not into full feminization, I just love the feel and look of lace panties when they are hugging a good looking cock, not to mention the taboo. I have taken to wearing stockings too which feel amazing, it's like...Read On
Added: 12 Aug 2013 | Category: Crossdressing | Avg Score: 4.81 | Tags: crossdressing panties ass-fingering anal cum in panties cum | 17 Comments
'Katie' finally fulfills her fantasy of having sex with a man.
"Come on, Katie. Give in to your desires. You've gone this far. You're almost there. You're so close to your goals and dreams of being treated like a lady. Accept it. Embrace it. Give in and complete your journey. Tell me what you want." Todd and I had been friends for years and even co-workers at one point in our respective careers. It had been almost ten years since I'd seen him and it...Read On
Added: 07 Aug 2013 | Category: Crossdressing | Avg Score: 4.71 | Tags: crossdressing gay anal oral cum swap | 11 Comments
The story continues...
As Lydia had promised, on the first day of her vacation I got my first lessons in high heels. It took most of the day before I was able to walk across the room and not fall on my face, and these were only a moderate heel. I took her to dinner to celebrate and, at her request, I wore the satin thong under my jeans. Lydia could not resist reaching out and squeezing the bulge in my jeans,...Read On
Added: 03 Aug 2013 | Category: Crossdressing | Avg Score: 4.75 | Tags: heels nylons instruction | 3 Comments
My wife Ann sets up a mini vacation over the 4th of July.
On July first I returned home from our health club. Ann was packing my suitcase for a mini vacation at a bayside resort. My suitcase was filled with all my girlie things: lubes, vibes, wrist and ankle restraints and the paddle she used on me when I was bad. She also said Ben, his brother Josh, and two others were joining us. Before continuing, I should mention how I became the man I am...Read On
Added: 02 Aug 2013 | Category: Crossdressing | Avg Score: 4.67 | Tags: anal humiliation oral cuckold bisexual group sex interracial | 5 Comments
Enter Francesca
As Willy led me by the hand up the stairs, I couldn't help but look at the smoothly shaven legs and the short plaid skirt that were clearly being presented for my viewing pleasure. Sheer white socks with fold-down frills at the top accented her open-toed black high heeled shoes. There was a nice casual sway to the hips as she negotiated the stairs. I got a glimpse of pink panties underneath...Read On
Added: 29 Jul 2013 | Category: Crossdressing | Avg Score: 4.83 | Tags: cross dressing first time oral sex gay sex | 12 Comments
A man has a wild experience on an unexpected business trip.
I work for a small web design company in northern Connecticut. We acquired a rather large account with a lawn care company in Virginia, and my boss asked me to go with him to present the design we had created, since I was the only other male at the company. My boss told me he didn't want any of the women to think he was hitting on them. Never having been asked to go on a business trip for...Read On
Added: 26 Jul 2013 | Category: Crossdressing | Avg Score: 3.17 | Tags: cross dress bisexual fantasy solo | 3 Comments


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SFA ban Whyte, punish Rangers
11:06pm Monday 23rd April 2012 in National Sport © Press Association 2013
Rangers have been hit with a 12-month embargo on signing players and owner Craig Whyte has been banned for life following a Scottish Football Association hearing into the club's financial affairs.
Administration-hit Rangers have also been fined a total of £160,000 while Whyte, who had already been deemed unfit to hold an official position in the game by the SFA, was handed fines totalling £200,000.
The SFA said their judicial panel would issue reasons for their findings in "early course" while both parties have three days to appeal following receipt of those reasons.
Whyte was defiant when asked for his reaction to the punishment on him and Rangers.
He told Press Association Sport: "Tell me how it is going to affect me? I couldn't care less. It makes no difference to my life whatsoever - and good luck collecting the money. It's a joke. It is very harsh on Rangers. I am surprised at how harsh the SFA have been on a club which is going through tough times at the moment."
Duff and Phelps, joint administrators of Rangers Football Club, condemned the ruling as "draconian" in a statement on Monday night.
Paul Clark, joint administrator, said: "All of us working on behalf of the Club are utterly shocked and dismayed by the draconian sanctions imposed on Rangers in respect of these charges.
"It appears that on one hand the disciplinary panel accepted our central argument that responsibility for bringing the Club into disrepute lay with the actions of one individual - Craig Whyte - as is evident from the unprecedented punishment meted out to him.
"During this hearing the Club produced compelling evidence from a number of sources that following his takeover, Craig Whyte ran the Club in a thoroughly unaccountable manner, rather than adhering to a long-established and proper form of corporate governance.
"The thrust of the charges against the Club focused on non-payment of payroll taxes and evidence was produced that all such decisions in this area were taken by Craig Whyte during his tenure."


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SuperMicro X7DVL-i 2 x Xeon E5345 6 x 4GB SK Hynix 667 FBDIMM 6 x 1TB WD RED Lepa G500 Cooler Master HAF XB I still need to find coolers for this monster!!
I assume, given the massive amounts of HDD space and RAM, that you're going to use it as a server? Mine just has a 150GB disk--it's just another low-cost cruncher for me There are always coolers like this, but it is expensive
Actually its more of me just messing with DP setups. Im also working on another project with this board:
Yes. I found this board for 60 bucks and bought 4 quad opterons for 10 a piece. not sure what im doing about ram ,psu and cpu coolers yet. Again this is just to play with you will see it for sale on tpu within the next 3 months lol
Build a mega server rig. Install recent games in it and start a LAN party then $$$ If I had one I would start a BF3 lan party here. Pretty popular and you can get sponsors so it take most of the expenses from your charge.
I would imagine he would sell them for what he bought them for or only slightly higher due to the fact that its a non standard layout and would have to be benched or buy an expensive proprietary rack for it
I was just joking because the price is ridiculous, lowing them down will be almost impossible, specially the CPUs, that's why i told him "great deal", the PS was just kinda ironic Anyway, thanks for the extra info
I just rebuilded this PC for myself during the time I wait to get more money. Compaq Evo D51S SFF UPGRADES CPU: 2.4 to 2.8 Memory: 512megs ddr-266 to 2 gigs ddr-400 HDD: 40 gigs to 80 gigs CD reader to DVD-RW burner I also modded the psu fan. Just took an Antec fan from a dead smartpower and put it in place. Almost dead silent the whole computer now. I also built this small setup only for someone who would like to surf the net, e-mails, YouTube, Facebook. Antec case with 430w @-power psu (Made by Dynapower USA) Asus P4B533 P4 FSB-533 2.4 gigs firstname.lastname@example.com GeForce Mx400 64megs AGP 40 gigs HDD CD-RW DVD reader Floppy 1 gig ddr-400
i have never used a floppy in my life. i mean, i have seen it work and touched it but never used it for myself lol, im a noob
noisy, hot, excess vibration, unreliable? some of the older maxtors i've used were ok, (some 250GB sata's i had were actually quite reliable, other than their slow ass speeds) but overall they werent very good. case in point: they no longer exist
Yeah there Seagate now. LOL I actually have some like 10 or 12 year old maxtors still chugging along in a couple of my crunchers.
I've got that same Compaq workstation Couldn't even get $40 out of it on Craigslist I also tried giving it away to my local linux users group but nobody wanted it
This one still work fine not noisy and for the heat we don't really care here it's winter so it warms up the place Hehehe. I will keep this one as backup and because it's freaking silent.
Question, how does everyone feel about leaving out extra PCI brackets? Improved airflow or decreased pressure?


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Got questions? We're here to help! Give us a call at 888-467-6278 or chat live.
The Arion Chair features the unique Stressless recline feature that adjusts to your back nearly effortlessly. The Lowback version is shown here. A highback version with a headrest is also available
Dimensions: 33" h x 34.75" w x 34.75" d


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@ The Namek, thanks
@ bakedbeing, thank you, Not AO or cavity mask, just use the fiber masking.
@ SolidSnakexxx, @ EZRA52, thank you
Here's a screengrab combo
Fibermasking is desabled now, as I unmasked foliage to do some sculpting (move tool) and multiplication ([W] + ctrl, [R], [E])
Anyway, use the masking profile curve. To mask this ~1/3 near the tip.
I used two lights, the main has SSS eanbled too, the second as backlight, no shadows
On the shader set up I also added a picture for reflection
Here the sss material for foliage. Feel free to use it, edit it (the sss color for instance, or the S_Exp value on shader mixer. Normally a 1 or less is useful on bigger meshes but on these fibers ... )
Just remind you to enable SSS under lights properties panel, use a second SSS backlight without shadows and SSS under BPR panel.


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The Traveler Speedster is great for the rocker on the run!
Traveler Guitar's Left-handed Speedster Electric Guitar signifies a design revolution in travel guitars because of its unique modern-retro look and detachable teardrop arm support while providing a full-scale neck. In addition to its compact size and portability, the Traveler Speedster is built for performance with a high-output dual-rail humbucker pickup, a unique roller-style bridge, and volume and tone controls. With the arm support detached for travel, the entire lefty guitar fits neatly inside a high-quality gig bag (included) and is small enough to stow in airline overhead compartments.
Never loose your chops!
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I walked in to the ACDelco Memphis Hicory Hill location on Mount Moriah Rd. today looking for a part. I saw two guys at the front desk, and only one was on the phone. Both looked straight at me when I came in but said nothing at all, not even welcome or hello. I stood there for 30 seconds waiting for assistance and then just started to look around the store. I saw two other workers that were just laughing with each ... view more
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Shareholders React to Apple's Annual Meeting
FBN's Adam Shapiro on Apple shareholders' concerns.
Feb 27, 2013
You're watching...
FBN's Adam Shapiro on Apple shareholders' concerns.
Feb 27, 2013
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Apple is about to turn positive or at least go flat after being down much of the session nothing -- the few worms and an apple to get people running away elect a 30%.
Drop in stock over five months but here's an -- picture.
It's it's been very very dramatic up down all around -- You know you've got an outspoken hedge fund bigwigs making demands of today's CEO Tim Cook face it all down -- holding Apple's annual shareholder meeting he must just -- -- these things whatever he's saying to shareholders though.
It's not religious in the stock as you see while shares are flat just about flatter down about twelve pennies at the moment CEO Tim Cook tried to reassure shareholders the profits and revenue.
Are really coming along that there on their way but cook failed to provide investors with any clarity as to what apple would do with -- pile of cash.
No word on dividends additional buybacks -- stock split.
But let's go here from Adam Shapiro has been outside Apple's headquarters in Cupertino California all -- what -- is hearing from people as they walked in and out.
-- -- with the latest.
Well there -- two things you hear from the shareholders first they like the fact that apple defeated David Einhorn in that lawsuit Tim Cook actually.
I addressed at least this round they've defeated Einhorn.
-- Tim -- address that he used -- of word that starts with asked to describe that lawsuit that we're being silly.
And he then went on to -- talk about Samsung in the competition from cents -- saying that Apple's not interest -- in making the most but.
Making the best but -- shareholders well they they're cheering cook and the is the defeat of Einhorn they want more money in their pockets from the dividend.
And -- get any guidance on that as you said so we spoke to some of the shareholders they were coming out.
And one of them well here's what she told me about put more money in my pocket.
More cash expenditures.
More dividends I'm very disappointed in the lineup of the board I'm sure they have a position paper and working about diversity.
Including -- women minorities that really what's the excuse and 2013.
And lots of qualified people out there.
Collegial heard this echoed throughout Biden several different shareholders protect -- 137 billion that apple sits on.
But you can protected by may be returning more to us right now the dividend what is it two dollars 65 cents a quarter.
So they want more of the money returned to them no guidance on whether that was going to happen one thing that's a definite.
Cook said that they will get the opportunity to vote on that issue regarding preferred shares.
Essentially giving the shareholders the final say over the board of directors he promise that's coming down the -- back to you.
You think any of these people would have had the courage to get and Steve Jobs as they -- -- no way.
To -- no absolutely not.
All right well -- -- one could argue that Tim Cook is a little more open to what shareholders really want to there are two sides to every -- -- their thank you very much good to see you out of if you.
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This hive is perfect for a novice beekeeper who would like to have a go at keeping honey bees. The hive is an attractive hexagonal shape so will look good in any garden, but more importantly it has been designed to make beekeeping easy. It can be used with either the 'top bar' approach which requires less lifting, less equipment and less intervention, or with the conventional frame approach (includes WBC frames), which will give you more honey. If you start with one approach and later decide to change you simply need to switch the top bars for frames (or vice versa). The brood box sits within a hexagonal 'lift' which provides excellent insulation and airflow. Extra lifts are available.Each hive can be assembled in 5 minutes. All you have to do is screw in the legs.Free delivery to mainland UK. 80cm tall, including legs. The bees should be sourced from a local beekeeper.Two options: With top bars, £369 With WBC frames, £399
The home beehive is made from FSC certified timber which is finished in a white water based paint. It has a double skin to provide insulation and protection against condensation. It comes complete with its own raised platform and has an adjustable entrance to prevent robbing by bees from other hives. The sealed timber roof is easily detached and can be extended upwards for more supers by using extra hexagonal sections. There is a mesh floor for ventilation and for varroa mites to fall through.Top bar beekeeping is a natural, sustainable form of beekeeping which allows the bees to make free form honey comb rather than adhering to a predefined structure. The inside of a top bar hive is essentially a box with sticks across the top which attempts to mimic the natural environment. When its time to harvest the honey, usually in the spring, the whole honeycomb is removed.The conventional frame approach has been developed over the last 100 years to maximise honey production. The hives include rectangular frames fitted with a pre-fabricated wax foundation, that encourage the bees to spend their time making honey rather than building wax comb. The honey is typically taken in the autumn and then a sugar solution used to feed the bees through the winter.
In Stock
Estimated delivery 5 to 10 days
Next day delivery available


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Unit: Strategy
(617) 495-6690
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Bruce V. Rauner Professor of Business AdministrationUnit Head, Strategy
Jan W. Rivkin is the Bruce V. Rauner Professor and chair of the Strategy Unit at Harvard Business School. His research, course development, and teaching efforts examine the interactions across functional and product boundaries within a firm – that is, the connections that link marketing, production, logistics, finance, human resource management, and other parts of a firm. His work analyzes, first, how such interactions constrain managerial behavior and, second, how managers use cognitive devices and organizational design to cope with decisions whose ramifications span boundaries. His scholarly work has appeared or is forthcoming in journals such as Management Science, Organization Science, the Strategic Management Journal, the Academy of Management Journal, Administrative Science Quarterly, and Research Policy. Much of Rivkin's scholarly work uses simulations of complex adaptive systems to examine the theoretical implications of cross-cutting interactions. His empirical work on the topic employs a mix of large-scale statistical studies, field research, and case studies.
Most of those case studies appear in the course Rivkin developed and currently teaches, Advanced Competitive Strategy: Integrating the Enterprise. This elective course aims to improve students' ability to integrate across the parts of the companies they will manage. It gives students a body of concepts for thinking about cross-cutting interactions, a set of tools for making decisions with boundary-spanning implications, and in-class practice with such decisions. A comprehensive description of Advanced Competitive Strategy is available to fellow educators via Harvard Business School Publishing. In support of the course and related research, Rivkin has completed case studies on Airborne Express, BMG Entertainment, Dell, Delta Air Lines, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Husky Injection Molding Systems, Lycos, Microsoft, Ryanair, Whirlpool Corporation, and Yahoo, among others.
Until recently, Rivkin taught and led the core strategy course in the first year of the MBA Program and taught strategy in HBS's Advanced Management Program (AMP). His AMP offering aimed to equip executives with skills in sizing up an industry, positioning a firm for competitive advantage within an industry at a point in time, and sustaining that advantage over time in the face of competitive dynamics.
Rivkin also co-chairs HBS's project on the competitiveness of the United States. In that role, he has worked with a faculty team to explore steps that leaders--especially business leaders--can take to improve the ability of firms in the U.S. to win in the global marketplace and support American living standards.
Rivkin received his Ph.D. in Business Economics from Harvard. Earlier, he studied chemical engineering and public policy at Princeton and obtained a M.Sc. in economics from the London School of Economics on a Marshall Scholarship. Prior to pursuing his doctorate, Rivkin led case teams and managed client relationships at Monitor Company, a strategy consulting firm based in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Rivkin and his wife live in Newton, Massachusetts with their two sons.
U.S. Competitiveness Paths Forward
Professors Michael Porter and Jan Rivkin of Harvard Business School address the audience of the U.S. Competitiveness Project.
The Looming Challenge to U.S. Competitiveness
The American economy is clearly struggling to recover from a recession of unusual depth and duration, as we are reminded nearly every day. But the United States also faces a less visible but more fundamental challenge: a series of underlying structural changes that could permanently impair America's ability to maintain, much less raise, the living standards of its citizens. If government and business leaders react only to the downturn and fail to confront America's deeper challenge, they will revive an economy with weak long-term prospects.
IN 2005, A START-UP company from California called ET Water Systems decided to move its manufacturing operations to China. At the time there was a general exodus to Asia in search of lower costs, recalls Mark Coopersmith, the firm's chief executive. ET Water Systems, which builds sophisticated irrigation devices for businesses, quickly started losing money, not least because it had so much capital tied up in big shipments of goods which took weeks to cross the oceans. Innovation suffered from the distance between manufacturing and design, and quality became a problem too.
Ben Worthen, Anupreeta Das
Dell Inc.'s journey from computer king to buyout candidate reflects the difficulty of abandoning what propelled it to prominence: a finely tuned supply chain that could quickly assemble and deliver custom-ordered computers at a lower cost than the competition. Now the question is whether going private would present the best way for Michael Dell, the company's founder and CEO, to move the company forward with a focus on corporate customers, rather than consumers.
An interview with Michael E. Porter, Lawrence University Professor, and Jan W. Rivkin, Rauner professor of business administration and head of HBS's strategy unit. Read the complete article, Can America Compete?
See all news mentions for Jan W. Rivkin »


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One of the WTA's most intriguing rivalries has become decidedly one-sided with Ana Ivanovic's comprehensive 7-5 6-3 victory over fellow Serbian Jelena Jankovic in the third round.
Former Australian Open finalist Ivanovic came into the contest with a 7-3 record against former No.1 Jankovic, who had vowed to go all out to turn their rivalry around.
But once again, Ivanovic played the big points with much more self-assurance and competed about as well as she has in the past six months.
"I think it's the style of the games, and there is no secret," said Ivanovic, a former No.1 herself. "Today's game, it's also a lot mental. With some players you feel better; with others you don't."
Ivanovic was powerful, fast and advantageous, controlling the court with her huge forehand and serving well enough to keep Jankovic off her back.
Ivanovic got off to a very fast start in the match and went ahead 5-2, but then former Australian Open semifinalist Jankovic began to zone behind excellent offensive play and quickly took the next three games to even the set at 5-5.
But Ivanovic didn't quiver and down 40-0 on Jankovic's serve, she ran off five straight points to break to 6-5.
Ivanovic – who ended 2012 ranked No.13, her highest since 2008 when she won Roland Garros – then played a brilliant game to close the set out, winning a marathon rally with a forehand into the open court, cracking another forehand winner and then booming an ace down the T.
Ivanovic easily broke Jankovic for 3-1 in the second set and never looked back.
Jankovic held a break point with Ivanovic serving at 5-3, but the 25-year-old powered a backhand winner. She won the match when a shot off of Jankovic's usually dependable two-handed backhand dropped into the net.
"It was a tough match," Ivanovic said. "I think it was intense from the first to the last moment, but I really felt like I stayed in the zone and I played each point for that point. That's what was my goal today, so I'm very pleased I managed to do that."
Ivanovic will play fourth seed Agnieszka Radwanska in the fourth round, who is riding a 12-match winning streak. Ivanovic won the first three matches she played against the Pole, but has dropped the last four.
"She's definitely matured a lot as a player," said Ivanovic, who also reached the fourth round last year, falling to Petra Kvitova. "She was always a very tough competitor. She has style of game that she doesn't give you much and you really have to work for your points. Being patient is going to be a key. It's going to be tough. I have to be prepared to work hard for my points and to keep on putting pressure on her. It's going to be a balance of being aggressive enough and then still patient enough."


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Thank You Gifts - Personalized Gifts - Food Gift Baskets
Gift Buzz
Specialty fruit baskets from Harry and David, Gourmet Gift Baskets and other top merchants are a classic and much-loved gift each Christmas. Look forward to the sweetest pears, golden apples and much more of unsurpassed quality and selection.... Read More »
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All fall, people have been asking me one question: "What are the hottest gifts for the holidays?" I've been telling them the trends I'm seeing, including Uggs, succulents, tablet computers, and a whole category of gifts: personalized gifts.... Read More »
Anniversaries are a special way to keep the romance alive year after year. Unless it's a big milestone year, such as 25 years or 50 years, most anniversaries are celebrated just between the two of you. So you've picked the restaurant, hired... Read More »


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The Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence in Scotland of Her Majesty The Queen, stands at the end of Edinburgh's Royal Mile against the spectacular backdrop of Arthur's Seat.
The absurdities of fashion, the perils of love, political machinations and royal intrigue were the daily subject matter of Thomas Rowlandson, one of the leading caricaturists of Georgian England.
Rowlandson was working at a time when English satirical prints were prized by collectors across Europe. A number of the works in the exhibition were purchased by George, Prince of Wales, later Prince Regent and King George IV. Ironically the Prince was often the butt of caricaturists' jokes and sometimes tried to prevent the publication of images that he felt were particularly offensive.Through Rowlandson's drawings and prints, the exhibition examines life at the turn of the 19th century.
Opening times:
Palace Of Holyroodhouse - Getting There:
By train: Edinburgh Waverley. The Palace is a 15-minute walk from the station.
By coach: Open-top tour buses stop nearby. Coach parking is provided free of charge.
By bus: Number 35 and 36 stop near the Palace.
By road: Public car park situated alongside the Palace
Address: Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate, The Royal Mile, EH8 8DX
For Accommodation and information, please call:
0845 859 1006
Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday and Sunday - closed
*Calls may be recorded


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What Happened to Samui??
Re: What Happened to Samui??
BTW, it is a minuscule percentage of the population that participate in the "vice" industry but yet you let that dominate your opinion of the country. You have a right to your opinion but your credibility is highly questionable.
eff_ewe - Posts: 5
- Joined: Thu Jan 01, 1970 7:00 am
Re: What Happened to Samui??
So, don't blame as a local issue.
Samui is a different but similar problem. Farangs have gone in there and over-developed the place. When Thai people ran it it was very nice!
farang2x - Posts: 30
- Joined: Thu Jan 01, 2009 11:17 pm
Re: What Happened to Samui??
farang2x wrote:No, the Patpong farang is created by the farang people themselves, and started by them during the Vietnam war.
So, don't blame as a local issue.
Samui is a different but similar problem. Farangs have gone in there and over-developed the place. When Thai people ran it it was very nice!
What a load of rubbish. The only people who have developed that place are Thais as they own all the land and nothing can be done without the Thai governments say so.
Hellboy - Posts: 15
- Joined: Thu Dec 25, 2008 11:32 pm
Re: What Happened to Samui??
1) yes it \\ ////, it seems to happen to most tourist destinations in some way or another. Less greed and shortsightedness by all parties would help. Anyway, there is no point crying over spilt milk, it is all going pear-shaped and there is nothing we can do.
2) been to all these spots back in the early 90s and then have spent large amounts of time over the last 5 years in places like Phuket and Bali as I have friends who live there, also did an english teaching course in Phuket. I can still live in those places relatively troublefree!! You learn to adapt if you think outside the box. In both Thailand and Bali, they tend to set up tourist areas/zones where everything is a ripoff etc. You want to avoid these places, use them for what they are good for (the odd restaurant, bar, foreign goods, meeting tourists). But there is always a line of demarcation where this (artifical environment) ends and the peripheral areas start (i.e. places where the locals live, have normal shops and food). The simple fact is that there are always going to be locals and the locals will always need local shops, local food and local prices, don't forget that.
The keys to survival are:
a) get your own transport, eg. bike - immediately frees you from the web of local transportation rip off merchants.
b) get a map and ride around. Workout where you are and where the tourist (ripoff) areas start/stop. Also talk to locals and expats. Most big hotels will ave free maps you can take. Then explore out of these areas for regular local food, hotels and shops.
c) identify when the peak season is as it gets a bit out of control and crowded during these times, the locals also get a little ruder and more impatient with you if you have a brain and don't want to be ripped off etc. Just go to Chiang Mai during the end of the year in Phuket's case (or go home for christmas or something) and come back after it is all over then everything is peaceful again.
Remember, no matter how out of control these places become, it is always going to be possible to live cheap, eat local and meet nice people. You just have to be smart. South East Asia has the cheapest rates of scooter hire on the planet, so take advantage of this fact as it affords freedom from rip off.
If you want really nice beaches and no tourist trap mentality. Then spend your money on a yacht charter (with captain and w/wo cook) and sail to some great islands. Probably cost less than a 1 week Phuket land based rip off tour anyway.
nat - Posts: 1
- Joined: Sat Jan 10, 2009 1:21 pm
Re: What Happened to Samui??
tingtong wrote:Thaiand is for sex tourists, that not my word for it by the way. Yes Thailand is bars bikes booze, not necessarily in that order but.
Anyone that thinks that tourist swill come to sit on a beach to read a book should take a look at Langkawi A muslim Island and looks like Samui but isnt . If talking to boys or sitting entirely on your own is your thing then please go there.
Thailand is what it is and always will be. Demolish the bars at your peril.
That is a very narrow minded attitude indeed, although it might apply to you and your type. But there are so many other things to do and see in Thailand, it is truely amazing.
However if sex is all that you and your type want, then go for it as it certainly is there. And yes, i was disappointed with Langkawi and will never go there again, it was dirty and "grotty"
village idiot - Posts: 8
- Joined: Tue Nov 25, 2008 4:51 pm
Re: What Happened to Samui??
Hellboy wrote:farang2x wrote:No, the Patpong farang is created by the farang people themselves, and started by them during the Vietnam war.
So, don't blame as a local issue.
Samui is a different but similar problem. Farangs have gone in there and over-developed the place. When Thai people ran it it was very nice!
What a load of rubbish. The only people who have developed that place are Thais as they own all the land and nothing can be done without the Thai governments say so.
Hellboy jan 10th .........100% agree with you on that one, the Thai "get rich quick" tribe started it by catering for the Viet Nam war R&R boys and its still controlled by the Thais supported by the next level of "get rich quick"..............THE THAI POLICE and certain POLITITIONS.
village idiot - Posts: 8
- Joined: Tue Nov 25, 2008 4:51 pm
Re: What Happened to Samui??
Went back in 1989, and was staggered at how quickly it had changed (but still very nice).
Then went back again in 2006 - was expecting a huge shock and received it. I can well understand that there has been a lot of development, but it seems to be a completely uncontrolled mess. Away from the built up bits, the beaches are still nice, though the water was very unclean near my bungalow. Tons of rubbish in the water.
Those who blame farangs for this are talking through their hats. All the power is with the Thais - they own all the land, run the government, run the local administration etc. They are to blame for the lack of control.
naiharn - Posts: 10
- Joined: Thu Jan 01, 1970 7:00 am
Re: What Happened to Samui??
Actually I just posted my views on Phuket. You can write this post here:
olsen - Posts: 4
- Joined: Mon Feb 23, 2009 10:20 pm
- Location: Sichon Beach, mainland opposite Koh Samui
Re: What Happened to Samui??
nothing is permanent only change is permanent ( some farang quoted this a long time back dunno how he was )
but this a good way to look at it.
nolikegohome - Posts: 9
- Joined: Fri Mar 06, 2009 1:57 pm
Re: What Happened to Samui??
The main difference between the Caribbean and Samui is the Thai people. Even at their worst, over tourism produced attitudes, they are kind, gentle and accommodating. Very different than the Antilleans who are loud, violent and care little for their environment while firmly declared as "Christians".
Of course the infrastructure in Samui needs to be improved, Of course the island's resources need to be protected. We have purchased a home and intend to spend more time in the land of smiles. There is much opportunity to develop eco-tourism in Samui, all the more reason to NOT write it off as being lost to "over use" and mismanagement. The idea is to enjoy the culture and "local" way of life, not to expect the island to conform and change. When we go to Samui, we eat much better in the local seafood restuarants than anywhere on Chaweng beach. We cultivate Thai friends and ride horses on the beach in the south. There is still plenty of nature to enjoy.
As tourists, we can influence the Samui culture in a positive way. And yes, I agree, too many dancing bars for my taste. They can't all survive and support the workers coming from the north. But good medical care, easy access and variety of product available make Samui a desirable location.
We visited Pattaya to spend time at the Equestrian facility there and dined out on one occasion. We will never go back to Pattaya, a very sad place indeed. It has all fallen in the hands of the Russian mafia so they tell me.
bikinibeach - Posts: 1
- Joined: Thu Apr 30, 2009 9:44 pm
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text:
dear baby: a big brother's guide to the world
50 comments:
This is so adorable, oh goodness. How exciting! That'll be the best literal bromance ever.
Jessica | Vixenelleaww! what a wonderful idea - this made me happy.
it'll be a great moment for your the whole family - especially for max to see what he wrote years prior.
it would've been fun for me to see what i thought/wrote when i was younger.hahahahaha "peace out" max youre gonna be an amazing big bro im sure xxxx
http://sydsense.blogspot.com(I am a little late on commenting, but wanted to leave a note for the little man.)
Dear Max,
I absolutely enjoyed your post! :)
You are so funny.
Thank you for making me laugh & giggle.
I know that you are going to be the best big brother!
Have a wonderful weekend.
ps, katie is one lucky mama! ;)
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text:
On Saturday, you and one other person can get in free to a slew of museums around Connecticut, Westchester County and New York City with a ticket you can get at the Smithsonian Magazine website.
The Sept. 28 "Museum Day Live" event is an annual one sponsored by the Smithsonian Museums "in which participating museums across the country open their doors to anyone presenting a Museum Day Ticket... for free," according to the Smithsonian Magazine website. For the ticket, go to the magazine's website.
Here are some of the rules and restrictions:
- Only an official Museum Day Live! ticket is eligible for free entry. Official tickets can be found here on the Museum Day Live! website soon.
- One ticket per household, for two people.
- A ticket will gain entry to only one of the participating museums, excluding parking and special events and exhibits.
- If museum reaches capacity, museum has the right to limit the number of guests until space becomes available.
Here are the participating museums in this area (for museums elsewhere go here):
- Stamford: Stamford Museum & Nature Center
- Greenwich: Bruce Museum
- Fairfield: Bellarmine Museum of Art (free every day)
- Fairfield: The Thomas J. Walsh Art Gallery (free every day)
- Bridgeport: Discovery Museum (admission is free this day but outside the Smithsonian Museum program)
- Ridgefield: The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum
- Danbury: Danbury Museum & Historical Society
- New Haven: New Haven Museum
- New Haven: Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History
- Bristol: American Clock & Watch Museum
- Bristol: Imagine Nation Museum
- Waterbury: Mattatuck Museum
- Farmington: Hill-Stead Museum
- Hartford: Connecticut Historical Society
- Hartford Harriet Beecher Stowe Center
- Hartford: Connecticut Historical Society
- Essex: Connecticut River Museum
- Lebanon Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House (free every day)
- Mashantucket: Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center
- Tolland: Old Tolland County Courthouse
- Tolland: Old Tolland County Jail & Museum
- Woodstock: Roseland Cottage
- Essex: Connecticut River Museum
- New London: Custom House Maritime Museum
- New London: Lyman Allyn Art Museum
WESTCHESTER COUNTY AREA- Kingston: Hudson River Maritime Museum
- Peekskill: Hudson Valley Center for Contemporary Art
- Katonah: Katonah Museum of Art
- New Windsor: National Purple Heart Hall of Honor
- New Windsor: New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site
- Mountainville: Storm King Art Center
- Oyster Bay: Coe Hall
- Oyster Bay: Oyster Bay: Oyster Bay Historical Society
- Garden City: Cradle of Aviation Museum
- Hempstead: Hofstra University Museum
- Garden City: Long Island Children's Museum
- Port Washington: Polish American Museum
- Huntington: Walt Whitman Birthplace
New York City
- Brooklyn: Waterfront Museum
- Bronx: Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum
- Bronx: Van Cortlandt House Museum
- Bayside (Queens): The Bayside Historical Society
- Staten Island: Staten Island Museum
- Staten Island: The Noble Maritime Collection
- Staten Island: Historic Richmond Town
- Flushing (Queens): Queens Historical Society at the Kingsland Homestead