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Six South Florida condos honored by 2010 Florida Communities of Excellence Awards
The Florida Community Association Journal and the law firm of Becker & Poliakoff has announced the 17 winners of the 2010 Florida Communities of Excellence Awards, among them a half-dozens South Florida condo communities.
Fifty-four communities statewide were selected as finalists, including the 2010 Community of the Year, Seven Lakes Condominium Association in Fort Myers.
The awards honor homeowner and condominium associations statewide in nine categories, including family friendly programs, civic volunteerism and disaster preparedness, which were all won by South Florida communities this year. The categories were divided between communities with more than 200 units and communities with fewer than 200 units.
The selection of the winners was made by independent experts from education, journalism, environmental advocacy, community association management and public safety. To learn more about the judges visit: http://www.communitiesofexcellence.net/judges.html.
The 2010 Florida Communities of Excellence Awards also were enhanced by participation of companies that are dedicated to serving the residents of condominiums and homeowner associations who have joined as 2010 corporate sponsors, including Associa, Association Financial Services, AmeriFlood, Aquatic Systems, Comcast, CondoConduit, The Continental Group, Global Electric Motorcars (GEM), Progress Energy Florida, Superior Bank, Service America and TD Bank.
Following are the communities honored as recipients of the 2010 Florida Communities of Excellence Awards (200+ unit communities appear first):
Baldwin Park, Orlando
The award recognizes the redesign of the home page to make it more user friendly and graphically pleasing. The new site includes important community documents, an enhanced "What's Happening" section linking to major area events, and a new a "Meet Your Neighbor" section.
Clearwater Key Association South Beach, Clearwater
Launched in 2009 with a real estate section for posting rentals and sales, the site features board and property manager blogs and live webcasts of board meetings. Photo galleries now connect out-of-town owners with the latest building renovations and social gatherings.
Lakes of the Meadow, Miami
Community events include a holiday party, fireworks displays for New Year's and the Fourth of July, plus Halloween and Easter events. Additional events include teen parties, bingo, car shows and movie nights.
Images Condominium Association, Kissimmee
The association provides children's activities after school and during school breaks. It secured the donation of refurbished computers for a learning center and hosts family movie nights, pool parties, and holiday functions.
Avalon Park Property Owners Association, Orlando
Residents are involved in Neighborhood Watch and Citizens on Patrol and the community was a 2009 National Night Out winner. A youth council is being started to engage young people along with a text messaging system for residents to report suspicious activity.
Forest Ridge Village Condominium Association, Fernandina Beach
This beach condo cooperates closely with local law enforcement to reduce crime. The Board instituted background checks for all long-term tenants, established a Neighborhood Watch, increased security education and emphasized vehicle control and lighting.
Ibis Property Owners Association, West Palm Beach
This golf and country club community's Volunteer Fair presented 28 organizations offering residents opportunities to support children, nature & animals, the arts, history, the elderly, infirmed and needy. They also support the Ibis Wildlife Foundation; several charities benefiting cancer research and patients; and toy, food, and clothing drives.
The Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale
This beachfront condo-hotel is involved in nine, year-round service projects. Programs include adopting a local middle school, food drives, a clothes drive for runaway teens, beach clean-up, and sponsoring a family with a terminally ill parent to stay at the Ritz to leave them with a lasting memory.
Tuscany Bay HOA, Boynton Beach
The community's Emergency Response Team has been certified since 2006 and receives continuing education. Their emergency plan is coordinated with outside agencies and addresses hurricanes, tornados, floods, fires and pandemic flu.
Golden Horn South Condominium Association, Hallandale
The community's disaster response plan includes a command center with impact-resistant glass and a natural gas generator for safe and secure operation during a disaster. They also created a Community Association Response Kit which encourages building evaluations and claims filings to begin as soon as possible in the aftermath of a disaster.
Pelican Cove Condominium Association, Sarasota
The award recognizes a $2 million water line replacement project that has reduced water usage by 23 percent. They have also installed solar panels, low-flow water fixtures, programmable thermostats, and compact fluorescent light bulbs; and have minimized watering of landscaping.
Villa Magna Condominium Association, Highland Beach
The community retrofitted its air conditioning system to reduce water and energy consumption. The $1.2 million project also entailed installation of solar panels and heat pumps, solar tinting of lobby windows, adoption of compact fluorescent bulbs for common areas and upgrading to energy efficient appliances.
Ocean Village, Fort Pierce
A $400,000 annual budget savings was accomplished through payroll reduction and outsourcing to local firms without eliminating services. Financial accountability has been strengthened, reserves increased, bad debt taken into account, and delinquent assessments assigned to a collections attorney.
Fountain View Villas Master Association, Venice
The community has positively impacted cash flow by requiring quarterly payments only by direct deposit or check to the association's bank. Presently 40% of homeowners use direct deposit bank draft payment. Additionally, improved monitoring has helped reduce utilities costs, and Television and insurance cost reductions were achieved.
Seven Lakes Condominium Association, Fort Myers
Water conservation methods include use of closed-loop waste water treatment for equipment wash water, conversion to low-water-use landscaping, removal of invasive aquatic plants and storm water recycling. Energy savings were achieved with conversion to heat pumps for heating pools, adoption of fluorescent and LED lighting and roof coating for heat reflection. They have established a 5.5-acre natural area.
Aspen Glen, Boynton Beach
The community transformed a dead lake into a thriving habitat for turtles, frogs, fish and ducks by installing an auto-fill system using clean, deep well water, adding fountains and aerators, and stocking the lake with native plants and fish. The result is a beautiful and serene retreat for residents.
Seven Lakes Condominium Association, Fort Myers
Communication is promoted through meetings between the 29 condominium representatives, the general manager, and department managers, as well as through the newsletter. Committees and the board receive input via workshops and time for owner input is scheduled during board meetings. Board member candidates submit resumes and hold a Meet the Candidate Night.
Esplanade Club, Naples
The board receives input from owners through surveys, at workshop meetings, and at open board meetings. Community unity is promoted through numerous social events with up to 80 percent attendance and a special committee representing the unit owners.
Additional information about 2010 Florida Communities of Excellence Awards can be found by visiting www.communitiesofexcellence.net.


text: Newly-coined word to describe multipliciously deviant persons. Considered a more accurate description of BDSM community members who feel the word "Switch" was inaccurate or offensive. It was felt that a category of persons given the label "switch" did not see themselves as "switching" between Dominant and submissive roles as much as they were both roles at any one given time.

subset: commoncrawl


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Alternate/Imaginary worlds intended to be used in roleplaying games.
Please include a site description with details of the basic concept of the world like political factors, climate, special events, and so on.
Created Worlds intended to be used with one specific roleplaying system should be submitted to the category of that System.
Sites submitted may be of any license or format, including browser-based aids, freeware, shareware, and commercial products.There is currently no description created for this category.


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silver wax-jack (bougie-box, taper-box) - Italy
The wax jack was a common endowment for a desk writing set, along with the inkwell, sand container and bell. Occasionally wax jacks were used as a mobile light, perhaps because they were more stable than taper sticks, blew out less easily and gave a better light. The bougie-box or taper-box was a cylindrical container to hold the wax-taper coil when not in use. The cover was originally flat and a tube at the top of the cover permitted the coiled taper to emerge. Some had a chain-attached candle estinguisher.
This is a silver wax-jack (bougie box, taper box) made in Italy (Regno Lombardo Veneto) at the mid of the 19th century. It has the shape of a cylindrical container with beaded lid, handle and domed cover.
It is hallmarked with "Mondo e Trioni" (800/1000 silver), FA (silversmith) and another unreadable mark. The wax-jack is 3 1/2 in. high (cm. 9) and was bought from an Italian dealer through the Internet.
This item is not for sale, but most of my pieces were bought through the Internet. On the right bar of this page there are some links to websites of silver and antique dealers
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The RBR50
Unilever Bestfoods approached Linkx to provide automatic palletizing for random packs of cook-in sauces from three adjacent product lines.
For this application, Linkx reused an existing robot that Unilever no longer needed to devise a compact system that is designed to do the work of three conventional palletisers.
Linkx implemented the palletizing system in conjunction with Alpha Chase Engineering, a specialist supplier of conveying systems.
Key benefits of product application
Expert insight on the ethical and legal issues affecting robot regulations globally.
The new reality of customizable, one-off production:
Additive Manufacturing (AM). Where it's going, why and what's
driving its emergence.


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We're no longer taking essay submissions, but if you're interested in writing for Cosmopolitan.com you can apply to The Mix, Hearst's contributor network.
You reading this right here are awesome. No, seriously: you are awesome. After I wrote that if you want to be successful, you have to beg for it and invited aspiring writers to email me and tell me why they should write for Cosmopolitan.com, you really did! And your notes were wonderful, inspiring, made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside, [insert other sappy reaction here]. What's so fantastic about your letters was that they showed just how ambitious each and every one of you is. They also showed that we're building a community here on Cosmopolitan.com that so many amazing people want to be part of, which, as a web editor, is the most gratifying part of my job. So, I'm officially inviting you to submit essays for consideration for publication on this very site. Here's the prompt:
Tell us a story in no more than 800 words about an experience you had in college. It could be about something hilarious that happened to you on a date or at a party. Maybe your dorm mate threw a pie in your face when you met for the first time but now you're the best of friends. Maybe you heard a lecture in class that you'll never forget. Whatever happened to or around you in college is fair game.
Submit your essays here. Authors whose work is chosen for publication on Cosmopolitan.com by its editors will receive $100.
Happy writing!
Update: Congratulations to our debut columnist Kristin Doherty, whose essay appears here. Keep the submissions coming. This is just the beginning!
Want more from Amy? Follow her on Twitter.
Photo Credit: Twentieth Century


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The new site will offer "deeply discounted, highly compelling travel deals," including hotel packages, airline tickets, car rentals, cruises and destination activities, according to a recent Expedia press release.
The travel deals will follow the Groupon model where customers have a limited time to buy a discount voucher valid for future travel. Discounts offered will be around 50 percent off retail rates found at other online travel sites, the release said.
Groupon Getaways is slated to launch in North America later this month and travelers can sign up to begin receiving emails here and at Expedia.


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Meet and Communicate with Fun Singles Near You on JDate
Register now to search thousands of members and post your FREE profile!
See who's on JDate:
Hi there? I'm a down to earth, easygoing guy who loves to live and lives to love. I can be adventurous and ambitious but I can be conte...
oasis2000 is a 46yr-old single man in Scarbro, West VirginiaView Profile


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Don R
The teaser tweet that Spies made stating he was going "home" does not translate to the BMW deal for me. It would make considerably more sense if Yoshimura USA were to join WSBK, especially given the lack of results for Suzuki this year. Crescent is just not representing the brand as it should, and Yoshimura must be disappointed being attached to that effort. Also, I would imagine that Suzuki has been doing development on a GP bike at their test track. It would be short sighted for them not to be, if they truly anticipated rejoining the grid any time soon. Also the Schwantz/Jordan Pepsi Suzuki rumor may be intriguing enough to appeal to the Corporate PR people at Suzuki to give it the green light to move forward. I guess we just need to wait to see how it all falls into place.


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The Heroes that Were Pigeons
Nesting / Breeding:
Teals usually nest near favored freshwater lakes and marshes, usually on the ground, but also in tree holes or rabbit burrows.
Teal Species:
Diet / Feeding:
Teals usually feed by dabbling, upending (feeding upside down in water) or grazing on land. They may submerge the head and on occasion even dive to reach food. In the breeding season, they eat mainly aquatic invertebrates, such as crustaceans, insects and their larvae, mollusks and worms.
In winter, they shift to a largely granivorous diet, feeding on seeds of aquatic plants and grasses, including sedges and grains.
Diurnal throughout the breeding season, in winter they are often crepuscular or even nocturnal feeders.
Photo Gallery
Please Note: The articles or images on this page are the sole property of the authors or photographers. Please contact them directly with respect to any copyright or licensing questions. Thank you.
The Avianweb strives to maintain accurate and up-to-date information; however, mistakes do happen. If you would like to correct or update any of the information, please send us an e-mail. THANK YOU!
© Robert McAllister
© Michael Klotz - www.TheBirdBlogger.com
© Abhishek Raj


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Jordin Sparks Speaker
Jordin Sparks Speaker Profile
Sparks second album Battlefield was released in July 2009 worldwide and debuted at #7 in the U.S., three spots higher than her first album. The albums lead single, also titled Battlefield, peaked in the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it her third top 10 single and fifth consecutive top 20 single. Sparks is the only Idol contestant to have their first five singles reach the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. Battlefield has sold almost 2 million copies worldwide. Sparks has sold over 9 million singles worldwide to date, making her one of the most successful idol winners. Battlefields second single, S.O.S. (Let the Music Play), was her first song to top the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Play making it her first U.S. number one single.[3] Sparks followed her success in 2010 by making her debut on Broadway. Sparks starred as Nina Rosario in the Tony Award winning broadway musical, In The Heights.
Contact Jordin Sparks Booking AgentMusicians such as a Jordin Sparks have owned the stage with their electrifying performances anddisplay of undeniable skill. These pop stars have topped the billboard charts and have captured thehearts of fans across the globe. The booking agents at Celebrity Talent Promotions can assist with
speaking engagements or appearances. We have years of experience in booking Musicians forkeynote speeches and autograph signings. Hiring a Musician like Jordin Sparks is not a hard process.Our agents can provide availability, fees and all costs associated in bringing out a successful Musician toyour next corporate event. We can find Jordin Sparkss agent to make this booking happen. AJordin Sparks appearance will add energy to your upcoming event and reward employees,customers and clients. Most likely, fans and corporations can find Jordin Sparks's official website,charity involvement, Twitter account, representation, publicist and management info atwww.Jordin Sparks.com. If your company is interested in finding out booking fees and availabilityfor hiring a speaker, celebrity or Jordin Sparks for an appearance, autograph signing, endorsementor speaking engagement, call us at 1.888.752.3532 or fill out the booking form below.
>>> Contact Booking Agent to Hire Jordin Sparks for a Speaking Engagement or Appearance
Videos of Jordin Sparks Speaking
Recent Jordin Sparks Blogs
- Disclaimer:
- Some parts of the celebrities' biography may be used from Wikipedia, which is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. CelebrityTalentPromotions.com acts only as an celebrity broker for corporate functions, private events and speaking engagements. CelebrityTalentPromotions.com does not claim or represent itself as Jordin Sparks's agent, speakers bureau, manager, publicist, assistant, PR firm or management company. CelebrityTalentPromotions.com is a Celebrity booking agency representing organizations seeking to hire motivational speakers, athletes, celebrities and corporate entertainment for private corporate events, celebrity endorsements, personal celebrity appearances, spokes person campaigns and speaking engagements. Jordin Sparks's booking and appearance fees, costs and prices on this website are estimates and are only act as a guideline. Exact booking fees are determined by a number of factors, including location of event, the celebrities schedule, desired duties, supply and demand and other market factors. Bios on this site are for informational purposes only and deemed to be reliable resources, but not guaranteed.


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In response to PatsEng's comment:
In response to ricky12684's comment:
thanks for effort ricky. i dotn know if any team knows for sure what their pick would be now or ore than a week from draft day; but i love riffing on what pats could get using all possible mocks.
ps i think 3-4 qbs go in first, but im hoping for 5
i don't see any of these 2013 QB prospects going in the top 10. mid 1st - mid 2nd rounds is when i feel the QB's will start going off the board and i too think there will be 4-6 taken in that area. i wouldn't be surprised to see BB trade his round 1 pick to a QB needy team and move back into the top of round 2 where NE's 2 biggest needs (DE, WR) have most value while also picking up an extra pick.


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This topic is archived and can not be replied to any more.
|DL Announces Code-sharing With Nationwide Airlines posted Thu Sep 28 2006 20:01:14 by RwSEA
|JAl Code-sharing With NW On NRT-USA Flights? posted Mon Dec 8 2003 21:08:46 by Speedbirdyvr
|Will BW Code-share With DL/CO? posted Fri Nov 17 2000 04:51:40 by Ahlfors
|Official:AZ To Stop Code-sharing With NW posted Fri Aug 10 2001 11:53:14 by Airblue
|Air India To Start Code-sharing With MAS posted Sun Jul 29 2001 17:14:36 by OdiE
|Will EK Compete With DL On The DXB-ATL Route? posted Fri Oct 20 2006 13:41:00 by Globalflyer
|El Al To Codeshare With DL On ATL-TLV posted Sun Feb 5 2006 15:18:52 by El Al 001
|CDG/AMS To HKG With CX On 09th Feb. posted Mon Jan 30 2006 09:00:10 by Flying Belgian
|DL To Start JFK-AUS/SAT With E170s posted Wed Aug 31 2005 16:33:52 by Panamair
|Airlines Code-sharing On One Route posted Wed Nov 3 2004 20:46:40 by Horus


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By Phillip Whitten
MONTREAL, January 18. TODAY is D-Day — Decision Day. Time to fish or cut bait. Today FINA and Montreal 2005 meet organizers will decide whether or not there will be a FINA World Swimming Championship meet — in Montreal, at least. FINA will follow with an official announcement tomorrow.
Officials from the Canadian city will meet representatives from FINA, today, hoping to convince them they have locked in enough money to keep their end of the hosting contract.
Lack of support from sponsors and poor ticket sales have meant funding for the championships, scheduled for July, has fallen $Can18.2 million short of what is required under contract by FINA, despite the Canadian federal, Quebec provincial and Montreal municipal governments putting in $Can44 million.
Canadian Swim Group Offers $1/2 million
In a largely symbolic, last-ditch effort to keep the meet in Montreal, scheduled for July 17-31, Canadian swim organizations have offered $500,000 of their own money to encourage sponsors to get involved. It is almost certainly a case of too little, too late. FINA meets today in Frankfurt, Germany, to make a final decision on whether to let the cash-starved championships take place in Montreal in July or to try to send them elsewhere.
"My gut feeling about this is going up and down with every hour," said Linda Cuthbert, president of the Aquatics Federation of Canada, which put $500,000 on the table. "I certainly haven't given up hope."
The AFC decision came at an emergency board meeting on the weekend, as a show of faith in the event to "stimulate other stakeholders to come forward to eliminate the current $12.2-million revenue shortfall," an AFC statement said.
That contribution is actually legacy money, staging fees that were to come to the AFC for the five-sport championship event, according to the Toronto Globe and Mail.
"The money was to be spent to send the next generation of Canadian athletes to other competitions. Instead, that future may be mortgaged to try to keep the world championships alive in Montreal's newly built pools.
"Cuthbert told Canadian media: 'Our enemy is time. No one wants to go first. The $500,000 is not significant in the big picture in terms of what is needed. But this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to have the championships in our own country, before our own fans. We recognize it's a crisis, but we wanted to take the initiative and step up to the plate.
"'The job now is to convince FINA that all the [Canadian government] partners are very committed, and to find a solution and make it happen.'
"Cuthbert said: 'To lose the world's most important amateur sporting event of the year would be an embarrassment for Canada and could jeopardize our relations with FINA, as well as other sport-hosting opportunities for Canada into the future.'
"Richard Pound, co-president of the Montreal 2005 organizing committee, said on Sunday the odds have increased that FINA will pull the plug on Montreal.
Plan B
The decision will likely depend on whether there are other sites available, Pound said. The Canadians have suggested Long Beach, California, on several occasions, but that has never been a realistic option. It became even less likely yesterday when it was pointed out that $75,000 worth of bills from the 2004 US Olympic Trials still have not been paid, a situation that does not set well with Long Beach taxpayers.
One possible solution might be to split up the sports instead of having all the world's aquatic athletes in one place, an option FINA is loathe to take.
Another possiblilty is to stage the event in one of the oil-rich Arab emirates, a solution that likely would generate more problems than it solves.
Perhaps the most likely solution would be a return to Athens, the scene of the 2004 Olympics. Indeed, informed FINA sources indicate that the Greek capital is the only serious candidate that has emerged to replace Montreal as host of this year's world championships.
SwimInfo will keep you informed of developments on the World Championships as soon as they take place.


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Just wondering after reading Barrett's claim to 4th 110 miler for the summer.:D
I did 23 in the year 2005. 5 before that, and about 5 since. I say over 30 fer me.:D
Gina's got 4 centuries on the tandem!...4-72 milers and an 84 on her single bike.:)
She's got some catching up to do!:p


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Electronic Arts founder and Digital Chocolate CEO Trip Hawkins has accused Nintendo of presiding over what he calls a "feudal dark age" in the industry in which developers "don't own the land that they are tilling." He has a point, but Nintendo certainly isn't the only platform holder guilty of that.. At GamesBeat in San Francisco today, Hawkins talked at length about the power of platform holders and how they often limit creativity in comparison to open platforms.
"Look at the world wide web and how many great companies have been built on that open platform," he said. "Nintendo is a great, amazing company, but how many companies have been built on the back of Nintendo's platform in the past 25 years?"
He added that the industry was born in a "golden age" of open platforms, and that EA had prospered in its early years because it ignored Nintendo and focused on the Sega Genesis, which he says his company reverse engineered.
"We fought for our freedom. We didn't accept the feudal system. There is no question that there is a war going to win the hearts and minds of the developers. They will decide which feudal lord wins or loses. The days of floating your boat on one platform are over. The question is, do you as a developer, own the dirt?"
He said that platform holders like to "lure [developers] in with false promises of freedom" but said that developers should focus on open platforms like the browser.
Hawkins has said in the past that the web browser will ultimately prove to be the ultimate platform for games.
Source: Gamasutra


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Import battle could juice tomato pricesJanuary 25, 2013 Updated: January 26, 2013 12:24pm
Photo: Keith Dannemiller, Photographer
U.S. consumers can add the "tomato cliff' to the nation's recent list of potential crises, according to a study commissioned by a group representing produce importers.
To continue reading this story, you will need to be a digital subscriber to HoustonChronicle.com.
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text: I'm having an issue with preauth where I'm getting a message that the timestamp is incorrect. I'm using a PHP script to generate the values. The times on both servers are within a few seconds of each other and are in the same timezone. Also, zmprov gdpa gives me the same result as my script. Any thoughts? An example is below of what my script is returning for a URL:


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Read just our best, feature-length articles without all the extra stuff.
Geek Comic for October 9th – The Problem with Intellectual Property
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Be centsable : how to cut your household budget in half
Like most Americans, stay-at-home moms Chrissy Pate and Kristin McKee spent the lion's share of their budgets on what they assumed to be static costs such as groceries and utilities. But when using traditional couponing and cheapskate guides didn't help their budgets shrink by a dime, Pate and McKee decided to come up with their own way to save. - from Amazon.com
Call Number:332.024 Pat


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Rainfall-runoff data for selected basins, Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, 1973-77
Open-File Report 78-291
- By:
- Antonius Laenen and Gary L. Solin
- The Publications Warehouse does not have links to digital versions of this publication at this time
- Download citation as: RIS
AbstractIn the Portland-Vancouver area, storms and floods are presently being studied in 16 basins with drainage areas ranging from 0.21 to 6.63 square miles and with various basin slopes, degrees of imperviousness, and mixes of land use. Fanno Creek basin in Portland has the longest period of rainfall-runoff record, starting in 1973; Tryon Creek basin in Portland is next with a record starting in 1974. Records in all other basins began in 1975. For each basin, data are tabulated for daily precipitation on a yearly basis and for 5-minute precipitation and 5-minute streamflow for selected storms. (Woodard-USGS)
Additional publication details
- Publication type:
- Report
- Publication Subtype:
- USGS Numbered Series
- Title:
- Rainfall-runoff data for selected basins, Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, 1973-77
- Series title:
- Open-File Report
- Series number:
- 78-291
- Edition:
- -
- Year Published:
- 1978
- Language:
- Publisher:
- U.S. Geological Survey,
- Description:
- iv, 48 p. :ill., 1 map ;27 cm.


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U.S. authorities negotiating with BNP Paribas over alleged sanctions violations at one point suggested that France's biggest bank pay a penalty as high as $16 billion, according to people familiar with the matter.
While the sources said that number was only proposed as a negotiating tactic in response to an offer from BNP of about $1 billion, the dollar figures being thrown around demonstrate what bankers and their allies say is an alarming trend of ever-increasing record penalties.
A $16 billion settlement would have pushed BNP's penalty above the biggest ever for a bank -- JPMorgan Chase & Co, which paid $13 billion last year to resolve a number of civil mortgage-related allegations.
More recently, authorities have been discussing a settlement with BNP in the range of $10 billion, sources have said. U.S. authorities are probing whether BNP evaded U.S. sanctions relating primarily to Sudan between 2002 and 2009, and whether it stripped out identifying information from wire transfers so they could pass through the U.S. financial system without raising red flags.
The New York State Department of Financial Services, one of the five offices negotiating the settlement with BNP, could receive at least $2 billion of an eventual $10 billion deal, according to a source familiar with the matter. That would be more than three times that office's $552 million annual budget this year.
A $10 billion fine would almost wipe out BNP's entire 2013 pretax income of about 8.2 billion euros ($11.2 billion). BNP reserved $1.1 billion against a potential fine.
Representatives of the Justice Department and BNP declined to comment on the negotiations.
In the past two years the U.S. Justice Department has said it's broken records on penalties for corporate misconduct at least seven times, including three times this year alone. The most recent was Credit Suisse in May, which paid $2.6 billion over charges that it helped American evade U.S. taxes, the largest penalty ever levied in a criminal tax case.
Total corporate criminal penalties in the United States overall increased about 647 percent between 2001 and 2012 to about $4.3 billion, according to figures compiled by University of Virginia law school professor Brandon Garrett.
The robust growth in corporate penalties, especially for banks, has defense lawyers questioning how authorities calculate each landmark settlement and how institutions can prepare for such fines they might face.
Banks are also deploying strategies to try to keep the numbers from growing, including enlisting top executives in settlement negotiations


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Supposedly boiled as an owl is an expression for being drunk.
Anyways, post your pics. CM gave me the idea, and is letting me start off with hers.
For the record, I think drinking is a terrible, terrible, terrible thing to get into, I do not condone the abuse of alchohol, and most likely will never drink again after having tried some. Of course, I do have some pics where folks "think" I must have been drunk to take, but that's just me on a sugar buzz. Thank you.


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Why Do Some Women Quit Work Unexpectedly After Having A Child?
According to statistics one out of every five pregnant women will not return to work. Quitting abruptly after childbirth could wreak havoc on your finances, your career and even your relationship with your partner.
How can you determine if you are vulnerable to quitting your job abruptly after having your baby? Below are some elements that can contribute to leaving your job:
1. You hate your job
Babies have a way of forcing true feelings to the surface. This means that if you hate your job now, while you are pregnant, you might find it physically impossible to leave your baby to return to it afterward. If this is the case in your life, admit it now and start planning to find a new job, start your own business or take a leave of absence. Now is definitely better than later.
2. You are a perfectionist
Being a working mother means trusting others to do things for you but not necessarily like you do them. Practice letting things go around the house a little bit and delegating more at home and at work. Women who insist on doing it all may end up quitting abruptly due to the stress caused by impossibly high standards.
3. You are 100 percent sure that you will be returning to work
Women who refuse to even allow themselves the thought of quitting are prime candidates for leaving abruptly after giving birth. This is sometimes due to feeling cheated by a short maternity leave or simply repressing true feelings about their dual roles. Pregnancy and babies are not about certainties. It is wise to take some time and consider all options including what you (and your partner) would do if one of you decided not to return to work.
The bottom line is that whatever you choose will be the right decision for you as long as you are making the decision consciously and not out of stress or unacknowledged feelings. The benefits of knowing, for the most part, what your actions are going to be after the birth of your baby are numerous when you think about finances, planning at work and not burning future bridges.
About the author
Brenda is a certified career coach, mother and the author of What's Your Lane: Career Clarity for Moms (due out March, 2013.) Brenda has used her talents in innumerable ways over the years including author, speaker, sales superstar, recruiter and now professional mentor. Brenda empowers everyone she meets to leverage their talents and to look at things differently. Sign up for her newsletter at www.ManagementMomentum.net
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Juliette Lewis' mystery beautyJuliette Lewis has a mystery new boyfriend.
The sexy star, who used to date Brad Pitt, has confessed she has started romancing after divorcing her husband of four years, professional skateboarder Steve Berra.
She revealed: "I hadn't been seeing anybody for eight months, but then I met someone I like. He's not connected to music or film, but he's really beautiful."
However, Juliette - currently touring with her band Juliette and The Licks - fears her hectic career may doom her fledgling relationship.
She is quoted by Britain's New magazine as saying: "I don't know what will become of it because my year is dedicated to my album. I want to be in a relationship when I have something to give and I'm not in the position to do that at the moment."
Meanwhile, the actress claims she is fed up of being asked about her famous ex Brad, who she co-starred with in 'Kalifornia'.
She moaned: "We dated a long time ago. It has nothing to do with what I'm doing now. I wish people wouldn't bring him up all the time."
Have an question? Get it answered by AskMen's guyQ.


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The richness of Costa Rica stems from the cultural diversity of its people. Throughout its history, waves of immigrants have added to the pre-Hispanic native populations, settling on this land and making it their home.
Presently, in addition to the majority Mestizo demographic, there are several colonial and national immigrant ethnicities that have restored their unique cultural heritage like African descendants, Chinese, Hebrews, Libanese, Italians, etc., as well as native people of Bribri, Cabécar, Maleku, Teribe, Boruca, Ngöbe, Huetar and Chorotega.
Costa Ricans are proud to have had more than a century of democratic tradition and more than 50 years without a military. This was abolished in 1948, and the money that the country saves from not having armed forces is invested in improving the quality of life of its citizens. This contributes to the social peace that makes Costa Rica a welcoming place to visit.


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EXCLUSIVE: A St. Pete mom says it was a horrible mistake leaving infant in hot car
Natasha Graver wept thinking of what could have happened to her 4-month-old daughter, Briele. The 32-year-old mother left the girl in her hot car on Saturday for hours.
"I don't want to be this emotional," said Graver, wiping away tears.
Joined by her husband, Brian, and attorney, Amanda Bettker-Nicholson of the Fleming Law Group, Graver acknowledged she made a horrible mistake.
The mother of six said she would never intentionally hurt any of her kids, who range in age from 13 to 4 months.
"I was not in a good state of mind. I had been crying for weeks straight. I just was not myself," Graver said.
Graver lost her father to cancer in May, she said, and the recent death of three women in her community, all moms killed by a wrong way driver, put her in horrible place.
The women had six kids total and she could relate, she said. She wanted to go to their funeral. Knowing it would be emotionally draining, she thought she had dropped off all her children at her aunt's home. But that wasn't the case.
"I'm a mother and I'm supposed to protect her. But it was a mistake. I did not mean to do it. I should have triple checked," said Graver. "I thought everyone was in the house. I even carried in the baby's diaper bag. But I left her in the car, and I take full responsibility."
Graver parked the car under a tree at a funeral home and she left the baby with the windows rolled up and the engine off, she said. She then left the service an hour and half later to pick up her husband. She went into her home for nearly another hour. When they both went outside, they noticed the baby.
"I heard her coo and my heart stopped," said Graver. "I was screaming then, telling my husband to get ice water. I got a fan. She was sweaty but looking directly at me. She seemed OK, but I am not a doctor, and I was not going to take any chances with my baby. So, I called 911."
After the couple arrived at the hospital, so did DCF investigators and police. St. Petersburg officers informed Brian Graver first that they would be arresting his wife.
"I was in shock," he said. "This was an accident and this seemed so unfair. She is the best mom ever. She is supermom."
"I was crying saying, 'Please, my baby needs me more than anything," the mother said. "But I did not fight officers. I went with them."
Graver does not have a criminal history.
Mike Puetz, a spokesman for the St. Petersburg Police Department, said the officers felt this warranted a felony charge of child abuse.
"I know the mother said that she just forgot, [but] this is not something we can take lightly," he said. "Obviously she will have her day in court and can explain it to a judge and jury."
Bettker-Nicholson hopes it does not get that far. She wants to get the case dismissed.
"People need to understand that life is hectic and chaotic. Sometimes we can't keep an eye on our children all the time. An accident is an accident. But she's a good mom and she loves all of her children," said Bettker-Nicholson.
Graver said right now she is focused on Briele and wants to make sure this does not happen to other moms. She's already reached out to her church and hopes to speak to other parent groups.
A woman of deep faith, she said she knows in her heart that her late father was looking after her child and now she wants to pay it back.
"I know he was there with her. You know he would never have let that happen to her," said Graver. "I wish I could talk to him about this, but he would want me to prevent this from happening to another mom or dad."


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My first Blurb book!
Vive La Difference! chronicles a visit to Paris in 2006 when we decided to find new places and experience some events that were off the usual tourist track. James Ferguson has been to Paris over 75 times in the past decade, so the goal was challenging. We succeeded and enjoyed our discoveries so much that we created this book to give others a new perspective on the best city in the world.
Julie is the author of twenty-six books including four on Canadian history, six about writing/publishing, and fifteen photo portfolios, as well as being a freelance travel writer/photographer. She's also a passionate golfer, curious foodie, and an addicted traveller. Julie is a proud solo Gramma x 3 and friend. Lover of life....
The Best of Shadow Ridge Published May 20, 2016
Ariana Published April 24, 2016
Photo Ops 2015 Published March 28, 2016
HALLÓ ICELAND Published August 17, 2015
Three Weeks, Fifteen Islands Published July 12, 2015
Ariana Published April 18, 2015
Ariana Published April 19, 2014
Photo Ops 2013 Published January 21, 2014


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The result is about what I expected. Lets not forget even on a "top level" machine Dovisioso still wasn't beating Lorenzo and pedrosa or even rossi (when he rode for Honda) so to think he has a shot on a bike that is off the pace is a stretch. I think the bike has a limit of where the feedback is and to go faster one must go beyond that. Maybe stoner was willing to risk it but most riders are not. Including Dovi. Maybe we will get a good 4 way Ducati battle. I think that Ben spies has potential to run with dovi and Nicky and iannone will get there too. Spies doesn't have the fire lit just yet. Maybe if he can get a good lap time he will re-ignite. I've always wanted to see he and NH on equal machines. I think they are close in talent.


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Before You Cruise
We aim to make our cruises as simple and enjoyable as possible with attentive and friendly service. However, if you are cruising for the first time or are unsure about how to get the most from your holiday we are here to help. Please read our cruise tips below to find out more about joining us for your voyage, and please don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any further questions.
New To Cruising
Going on a cruise for the first time is a new and exciting experience, and we're here to help you land on your feet as soon as you step on board. If you're new to cruising, we'll make sure you're settled in as quickly as possible. Our 'New to Cruising' programme tells you everything you might need to know for your first time cruise.
Guided ship tours: soon after you board one of our cruise ships, you'll have the chance to take a guided ship tour. We'll show you around the different areas of the ship and you can ask us any questions along the way.
'New to cruising' get together: we'll invite you along to a get together early on in your cruise. Meet other first time cruisers, and we'll give you some tips on how to make the most of your cruise.
'New to cruising' representative: we've got someone on hand every day of your cruise holiday, available at a selected time and place. They'll answer your questions and give you advice on anything you'd like.
How to get New to Cruising support
Simply contact us on 01473 292444 or email email@example.com
Unfortunately, New to Cruising isn't available on mini-cruises.
Your peace of mind
Whether you are joining us for a first time cruise or are a veteran traveller, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is a member of ABTA (W0637). ABTA and ABTA members help holidaymakers to get the most out of their travel and assist them when things don't go to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service under ABTA's Code of Conduct. Find out more at www.abta.com.
For total confidence in your trip, take a look at our cruise extras where you can find out more about transfers, insurance, baggage handling and other services that are here to help make your journey as smooth and comfortable as possible.Read more
UK Cruise Departure Ports
We want the start of your cruise to be as enjoyable as the holiday you're about to set off on. Whichever UK departure port you are cruising from, the cruise information on these pages will show you how to get there, as well as the hotels, car parking facilities and other facilities that are available to you.
Our cruises leave the UK from Southampton, Dover, Bristol (Avonmouth), Tilbury, Harwich, Liverpool, Belfast, Newcastle, Glasgow (Greenock) and Edinburgh (Rosyth).Read more
Travel information
Your cruise holiday should be a wonderful experience and at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines we go all-out to make it utterly memorable. Whether you are new to cruising or have taken a cruise with us before, you'll find everything here you may need to know before joining your cruise ship.
Dress Code - what to Pack
A Fred. Olsen cruise holiday is all about relaxing, so here's our guide to 'what to pack' for the various activities on board and ashore. Plan ahead for what you need to bring, and you'll then be able to enjoy your cruise holiday safe in the knowledge that you have covered every clothing eventuality.Read more
Cruise Types
Explore the various cruise types we have to offer, and enjoy a Fred. Olsen cruise with a difference!
Mini Cruise, World Cruise, Seasonal Cruise
Whether you're looking to book a mini cruise to give you a taster of life on board, a world cruise for that ultimate holiday experience of a lifetime, or a seasonal cruise to celebrate with friends and family over Christmas or a bank holiday, Fred. Olsen aims to make your cruise trip a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Fly-CruisesRead more
In addition to the cruise types above, why not venture a little further afield on our Exotic Fly-Cruise programme to some of the World's most fascinating cities including Sydney, Singapore, Dubai and Bangkok? If you've not considered a Fred. Olsen fly-cruise before, maybe now's the time to try one.
A-Z Cruise Holiday Guide
An A-Z guide to your cruise holiday with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines: from on board accounts to visas.Read more
Cruise Themes
Our cruises have an extra special something. Expert speakers, who can teach us a thing or two about selected topics, like wine, adventure and antiques. We won 'Best Educational Cruise 2011' from leading cruise magazine, Cruise International. And Black Watch was named 'Best Entertainment 2012' by Cruise Critic (in the small ship category)Read more
That's because we put our all into every cruise. So join us and enjoy even more aboard your cruise holiday. A classical music festival at sea, featuring renowned musicians, opera singers, string quartets and pianists. A bracing walking cruise amidst beautiful bay views and heartlands. A....well, the list is almost endless.
Group Travel
If you're a member of a group or association or you travel in a group with your family and friends, you'll find we've put together some great value added benefits for group travel.


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"Y'all are fantastic!! Please know that for our event next year we will get ALL of our supplies through you!!"
Jack - Winter Garden, FL
"I was very presently surprised not only by the quality of the merchandise but also the exemplary service of everyone on staff!"
Chell Rossi - Canal Fulton, OH
"WOW! Thank you sooo much. My order just arrived I will tell all my friends about your great web-site and customer service! You girls were wonderful."
Jackie - Eagle Rock, CA
"I have to say your customer service is amazing and you are definitely on our list for more purchases in the future! Thanks again."
Nicole - Manitoba
Carnival Game Idea – Hole in One
Supplies for Carnival Games – Hole in One:
Putting Green made from thick green outdoor carpet cut into putting shape with holes for the golf balls. (Large carnivals (200 or more children) may wish to have two or three putting greens to allow several children to play this carnival game at the same time.)
Sloped foam pad (about 2 – 3 feet long) cut identical to the putting green above. This pad is placed under the putting green near the end to allow a slope for players and depth for the balls to sink into the holes
2x4 Lumber pieces to prevent the golf balls from rolling away
A few putters of different sizes (be sure to have at least one small plastic putter for the preschool children who would like to play)
Golf balls – have some plastic balls for younger children
Masking Tape, sidewalk chalk or cones to show children where to stand
Carnival Prizes – consolation, and others (depending upon how you set up this carnival game)
How to Play:
Before the carnival, set up your putting greens and tape to show children where to stand. Children are given 3 chances to put from the line and make it into one of the holes on the end of the putting green.
It is best not to allow children to walk down the putting green to continue to hit the ball more than one time – you do not want them tripping on the lumber – allow carnival volunteers to pick up the balls.
Depending upon how difficult your game is set up - choose your prize levels. For example, if a player gets 3 holes in one, they receive a top prize (this will be rare!) If a child sinks 1 or 2, they receive the medium prize. If they do not get a ball into the hole they receive a consolation prize.
Carnival Prize Ideas for Hole in One Carnival Game
|Twizzlers Candy
|Neon Spin Tops
|Bead Necklaces
|Rainbow Pinwheel
|Rainbow Jump Ropes


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Powderham Class Become Meerkat Experts
Powderham class have turned into a class of Meerkat experts over the past three weeks. They have researched books and used the internet to find out some interesting facts about meerkats. Click on the link to view the meerkat powerpoint and let our experts share these meerkat facts with you.


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- Camping and Cottages
- Trails
- Sports and Leisure Activities
- Nature/History Programs
- School Group Programs
- Summer Camps
- Indian River Marina
- Museums, Attractions, Brandywine Zoo
- Weddings, Meetings
and Celebrations
- General Information
- Resident Curatorships
- Volunteering & Friends' Groups
- Internships
- Passes and Fees
- Rules
- Donate
- Home
Children In Nature Vision
Delaware will be recognized as a leader in environmental education for all of the state's children. At school and at home, in parks, backyards and other outdoor spaces, children and adults will experience a multitude of ways to improve health and well-being and enhance life-long learning through encounters with and growing knowledge of the natural world. No child will grow up without having had a positive outdoor experience. All families will have access to green spaces. Children will reconnect with the natural world in meaningful ways and there will be no child left inside!
Children In Nature Mission
To improve environmental literacy, create opportunities for children to participate in outdoor experiences, promote healthy lifestyles and provide better access to green space through schools and community programs.


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French fries lead to house fire; former lace factory blaze remains undetermined
Scranton fire inspectors reached a conclusion Thursday on one Wednesday fire, but a second remains undetermined, acting Fire Chief Patrick DeSarno said.
What caused heavy flames and smoke in the first floor of the 8.4-acre Scranton Lace Co. compound on Albright Avenue is undetermined and it may stay that way, Chief DeSarno said. There are simply too many variables to consider before a definitive conclusion can be reached, he said.
Workers were in the building hours before the fire was reported Wednesday afternoon using acetylene and oxygen torches, Deputy Fire Chief Al Lucas said at the scene Wednesday.
Meanwhile, french fries and sausages cooking in the kitchen of 1031 N. Main Ave. sparked a blaze that left nine people displaced after spreading to 1033 N. Main Ave., a connected unit. A parent was watching four children and cooking with a stove and grill at the same time shortly before 6:30 p.m., Chief DeSarno said.
No one was injured in the fire. The American Red Cross of Lackawanna County provided the two families with food, clothing and lodging, the Red Cross said in a release.
The former Scranton Lace Co. building is in the midst of a multimillion-dollar redevelopment into a mixed-use facility. Lace Building Affiliates principal Jody Cordaro could not be reached for comment.
The building has stood for more than a century and was once the nation's largest manufacturer of Nottingham-style lace products, including tablecloths, napkins and curtains. At its peak, the Scranton Lace Co. employed 1,400 people.
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What is hotchkin's disease?
Hodgkin's disease, which is also known in the medical profession as Hotchkin's (or Hodgkin's) Lymphoma, is a type of cancer. This type of cancer usually results from the white blood cells in the body becoming diseased or damaged. This form of cancer is particularly dangerous since it is the white blood cells which form an extremely important part of the body's first line of defense against invasive bacteriological and viral elements.
Hotchkin's disease, like other forms of lymphoma cancer, will have different effects on different types of individuals, as well as take different forms within the bodies of those it
infects. Indeed, Hotchkin's disease possesses a very wide range of forms. However, most forms of Hotchkin's disease form within older individuals, usually after the age of 40. This is particularly true for females who are at an increased risk for breast cancer past the age of 40. Although Hotchkin's is a very dangerous and persistent form of cancer, it can nonetheless be detected and removed relatively easily, if caught in time.
Although it is normally present in individuals who have reached the age of 40 and above, the presence and progress of this lymphatic disorder is not restricted merely to these older persons. Hotchkin's disease may, in fact, be present at any age, and has sometimes been discovered even within children. However, it normally does affect the region of the breast in female individuals, beginning around the time they reach middle age (40 years or so). In males, the usual development process of Hotchkin's may begin sometime between the ages of 20 and 40.
Triggers of Hotchkin's disease
The specific causes, and triggers at this time are relatively unknown. Much scientific and medical research has, of course, been conducted, but results from these studies are inconclusive. There have been some studies which seem to point at a possible virological origin. What is known is that this disease is one of the forms of lymphatic cancer which is successfully treatable, if detected in time. Further, Hotchkin's itself is, indeed, one of the more easily detectable forms of lymphatic cancer. There is no lack of patients alive today who have successfully recovered from Hotchkin's disease, thanks precisely to early detection and subsequent treatment.
Thankfully, this disease is a relatively rare and uncommon form of cancer, whether lymphatic and otherwise. Hotchkin's disease received its very name from the English physician Hodgkin's (the common misspelling of "Hotchkin's" is attributable to an error in a manuscript of one of Hodgkin's published medical treatises). Hodgkin's was the discoverer of this rare form of lymphatic cancer, and the first to write extensively about its conditions, symptoms, effects, and treatment. He also was the first individual to write about the subsequent recovery process of patients who did manage to survive this terrible disease.
As noted above, Hotchkin's (or, properly, Hodgkin's) disease is a very rare and uncommon form of cancer, and can easily be detected and treated, if its presence is discovered in time. Thus, those unfortunate individuals who are diagnosed with it need not feel as if they are being condemned to a "death sentence" which is sure to be carried out in a very short time.
Indeed, with proper detection, treatment, and subsequent rest, many individuals who have been previously diagnosed with Hotchkin's disease have managed to fully recover, and go on to live happy, fulfilling, lives, with no sign of weakening or continued ill effects from either the treatment process, or the disease itself. So, don't despair if you happen to be diagnosed with Hotchkin's disease. Help, and hope, are in plentiful supply! Good luck!
Current average ratings.


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Engine Insight Page 12
By Capt. Ken Kreisler
Engine Insight - Ocean Repower Photo Gallery - Capt. Bob Dunn
Repower —By Capt. Ken Kreisler
Engine Insight
|Photo Gallery
Photo © Capt. Ken Kreisler
Previous Image
Thumbnail Index | Repower, Part 1 | Engine Editorial Index
This article originally appeared in the January 2003 issue of Power & Motoryacht magazine.


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shalise manza young
Stevan Ridley had 2 fumbles in 11on11, 2nd on goal-line carry when he was stripped by Wilfork
Ball-security struggles for RB Stevan Ridley. Football on the ground twice in run game, once near goal-line (Wilfork recovers & crowd roars)
So 2 fumbles today, 1 fumble yesterday in a RB drill, this is not good. He has had ball control issues all along, this is troubling. Might need to be deep at RB in case this is a problem during the season.


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The Swissair webside gives Arrival and Departues information. I sometimes read there the remark "gat attended" instead of "boarding, colsed, departed,...". Who knows the exact meaning of "gat attended" in these situations?
This topic is archived and can not be replied to any more.
©Copyright 2016 Demand Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved


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Tiburon and Toddy··· Mar 02 2011 · By ···
J and I have been enjoying regular walks along Richardson Bay in Tiburon. There's a nice flat trail we like to walk on Sundays, when we want something not-very-challenging after a solid yoga session. A few weeks ago, though, we got that "itchy" feeling – the urge to step out of our comfort zone and try something new. A lot of times for us that means planning another major move, but we're trying notch it down a bit with smaller changes like exploring a new area. So, we decided to head up into the Tiburon Hills and walk around the little white church known as Old St. Hilary's.
How wonderful that this open space has been preserved for all to enjoy! There's something special about being up high, with spectacular views of the San Francisco Bay and skyline in the distance. It's a nice open hillside so no shade to get in the way of that precious winter sun, and the plant life is abundant and diverse. I've particularly been enjoying the bold bursts of color from California Poppies and the orange moss that lives on so many of the rocks around here.
The rarity and profusion of plants is a result of the preserve's geology, which includes steep hillsides of serpentine, level areas of deeper soil and a series of fresh-water springs. With full sun and prevailing winds, the area allows an impressive number of sedges, rushes and grasses to thrive along with attractive and conspicuous flowers.
-Belvedere-Tiburon Landmarks Society
This past weekend we had the privilege of hanging out with one of our dear friends, Todd Martin, "Toddy" as I like to call him, and we took him up the hill for a hike. He's one of those solid friends you know you can always count on for love, support, wisdom, and a good laugh. Todd and I met when he took me under his wing at the since-closed Ivy's restaurant in Hayes Valley. In the world of difficult personalities that is the restaurant biz, he was a breath of fresh air. That was in 1996 (15 years ago!) and through the peaks and valleys of our lives, that big-hearted Pisces and I (and J, too) have remained close, no matter how far apart geographically. Todd has faced intense challenges and his perseverance and personal growth are an inspiration to us. His hard work and commitment to a healthy, holistic (and positively contributing) life have created serious positive momentum for him and no one deserves it more.


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Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas announces eight new development concepts set to open over the next 36 months. Growth also includes the addition of four Six Senses Spas and the brands broadening expansion into the lifestyle of wellness.
The rapid brand expansion of Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas ignited in Asia, Europe, Northern Africa and the Caribbean allows us to redefine ourselves on a global scale with the addition of our first ski resort, first urban hotel and two amazing resort projects located at UNESCO World Heritage Sites, said Chief Executive Officer Neil Jacobs. At the core of our DNA is creating unique hotel experiences that are located in untouched, pristine locations supported by sustainable development and culturally-sensitive design aesthetics. Our vision for growth is anchored in a dynamic and thoughtful approach to the science of wellness.
The upcoming developments in India include key two projects. Known as the tallest residential building in the world, built on one of the most expensive pieces of land, Six Senses World One is located in Mumbais Worli district. Six Senses will manage the entire club house designed for residents and select external guests. The club is spread over three floors; a podium area provides for a true green oasis in the middle of the Indian metropolis. An area of over 8,000 square meters (86,000 square feet) has been designated for the facility. The focus is on wellness and the creation of a club concept including innovative restaurant concepts, interesting options for social gatherings and events, an array of fun activities and areas for children, walking and jogging trails plus services for pets. The spa facilities include relaxation areas, indoor and outdoor recreational services, a variety of wet area circuits along with lap and outdoor pools.
Less than three hours by car from Mumbai lies the city of Pune, where the Evason Pune Belmondo project lies. Located approximately 20 minutes from downtown Pune, Evason by Six Senses will manage the entire club house which is approximately 6,400 square meters (69,000 square feet). The club house is built over three levels and includes two restaurants, meeting room, banquet hall, kids area spread over two levels, games rooms and library. The facility also incorporates a gym, yoga studio, pool, several indoor and outdoor relaxation spaces and a spa with eight treatment rooms each different and unique, Hammam and changing rooms with wet facilities.
The key hospitality projects include


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The landmark overhaul of the U.S. health care delivery and financing system moved closer to final enactment when the House of Representatives on Sunday, March 21, approved both a reform bill earlier cleared by the Senate and a second bill that would make numerous changes to the other bill. On Tuesday, March 23, President Barack Obama signed the first measure.
The legislation will result in as many as 32 million U.S. residents gaining coverage, chiefly through expanding Medicaid for the low-income uninsured and extending federally subsidized health insurance premiums to uninsured individuals with incomes up to 400 percent of the federal poverty level. For the first time, employers will be subjected to taxes if they do not offer coverage to employees or if the coverage fails an affordability test.
In some cases within a few months, employers will have to change the design of their plans to comply with a wide range of new requirements, such as continuing coverage to employees' adult children.
Some benefit programs, such as flexible spending accounts, will have to be cut back; others, most notably prescription drug plans provided to Medicare-eligible retirees, will lose tax breaks.
Down the road, employers also could be affected by a new tax on costly health insurance plans if health care plan costs continue to rise. To help employers keep up with the latest developments, Workforce Management sister publication Business Insurance provides answers to frequently asked questions about the issues.
Q: Which bills did the House of Representatives approve on Sunday?
A: Two measures were passed. One was the measure the Senate approved last December. The second bill, described as a reconciliation bill or a "sidecar," includes changes to that measure.
Q: What happens next?
A: The Senate has to approve the second bill, and that action could be completed this week. Obama then will have to sign that measure.
Q: How would the new excise tax on health insurance premiums work?
A: Starting in 2018, a 40 percent excise tax would be imposed on health insurance premiums exceeding $10,200 for single coverage and $27,500 for family coverage. The cost thresholds triggering the tax will be slightly higher for plans covering retirees or employees in certain high-risk industries. In 2019, the thresholds would rise to match the increase in the Consumer Price Index, plus one percentage point. In 2020 and succeeding years, the thresholds will increase to match rises in the index.
Q: Who would pay the tax?
A: The tax would be paid by insurers for fully insured plans and by plan administrators for self-funded plans. Insurers and plan administrators almost certainly would try to recover that cost from employers.
Q: Would the tax apply to all health care-related coverage?
A: No, dental and vision care premiums or costs would be excluded.
Q: What is the penalty on employers that do not offer health care coverage?
A: Starting in 2014, employers with at least 50 employees would be assessed an annual penalty of $2,000 for each employee they do not offer coverage. In calculating the amount of the tax, the first 30 employees would be excluded.
Q: Is there a penalty if an employer offers coverage, but coverage is not "affordable"?
A: Yes, a penalty of $3,000 per employee per year would apply starting in 2014. Two conditions would have to be met for the penalty to be triggered: The share of the premium paid by the employee would have to exceed 9.5 percent of household income and the employee would have to use federal insurance premium subsidies to purchase coverage through new state health insurance exchanges.
Q: Since 2004, employers offering retiree prescription drug coverage at least actuarially equal to Medicare Part D have been eligible for a tax break. Specifically, the government provides tax-free reimbursement of 28 percent of employers' drug costs to retirees within a certain corridor. Does the legislation take this tax break away?
A: The legislation curbs the tax break starting in 2013. Employers still will be eligible for the subsidy, which will continue to be tax-free. But employers will not be able to take a tax deduction for retiree prescription drug expenses for amounts equal to the subsidy.
Q: Does the legislation give employers a financial incentive to continue to provide retiree health care coverage?
A: Yes, a limited one. Beginning 90 days after enactment, a $5 billion government fund will be put in place to reimburse employers for 80 percent of each claim falling between $15,000 and $90,000 for retirees age 55 through 64.
Q: What will happen to flexible spending accounts?
A: Starting in 2011, employees no longer will be able to be reimbursed from their FSAs for over-the-counter drug expenses. Then, in 2013, a $2,500 cap on contributions to flexible spending accounts will go into effect. In succeeding years, the cap would be increased to match the rise in the Consumer Price Index. There is no annual limit under current law, though employers typically impose limits of $4,000 to $5,000 a year.
Q: What restrictions will be imposed on health savings accounts?
A: Beginning in 2011, the current 10 percent tax on health savings account withdrawals taken prior to age 65 that are not used for reimbursement of health care expenses would be raised to 20 percent.
Q: What changes affecting health care plan design would go into effect quickly?
A: Within six months after enactment of the legislation, group plans would have to extend coverage to employees' adult children up to age 26 if the adult child is not eligible to enroll in another group plan. In addition, group plans no longer could have lifetime dollar limits and no restrictive annual limits, as defined by regulations. In 2014, waiting periods exceeding 90 days would be banned, as would annual dollar limits on benefits.
Filed by Business Insurance, a sister publication of Workforce Management. To comment, e-mail email@example.com.
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Baby Shower Benefit
The ladies auxiliary of UNICO National's Scranton chapter recently held their annual baby shower for St. Joseph's Center's Baby Pantry. The Baby Pantry is a free community service available to all families who need baby food, clothing (up to size 6), diapers and other baby items. Last year, there were more than 3,000 pantry visits. The pantry relies on the generosity of volunteers and donations from the community. Call 570-963-1261 or visit stjosephscenter.org for more information on the pantry.
From left, front row: Sister Maryalice Jacquinot, IHM, president and chief executive officer of St. Joseph's Center; Ashley Yando; Patti Montalbano, president, UNICO Scranton ladies auxiliary; Gayle DeAntona, incoming president, UNICO Scranton ladies auxiliary; Ruth Marmo and Doris Lindsley. Back row: Alice Vanston; Nina Falciglia; Lori Nozzi; Lois Mallick; Rose Blasé; Linda Malinoski; Mary Marrara, incoming president UNICO Scranton Chapter; Palma Yanni; Rosalie Prizzi; Gloria Bernardi; Mary Ann Wetzel; Sharon Selwocki and Rose Cutitta.
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WASHINGTON (AP) — Officials at the National Zoo are expecting some "panda-monium" this weekend.
The Washington zoo's panda cub will be making her public debut Saturday.
To handle all the panda lovers, the zoo is extending the hours for the giant panda house. Bao Bao is now five-months-old.
PHOTOS: 11 adorable pictures of Bao Bao
Zoo keepers say if Bao Bao and her panda mama want, they can retreat from public view into their private den.
Can't make it to D.C.? You can keep track of all the panda goings-on at the National Zoo through its panda cam.


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The Growing Gannongate Scandal
I happened to be listening to the radio on January 26th, when the president called on "Jeff" at a news conference. Jeff wondered how Mr. Bush was going to be able to work with Democratic leaders "who seem to have divorced themselves from reality?" That was the most absurdly partisan question I had ever heard from a reporter, and I wondered who the hell he was. Turned out, I was not the only one wondering about that.
Soon afterward, liberal bloggers, led by a team of volunteers affiliated with The Daily Kos, decided to find out. It turned out that "Jeff Gannon" was a fake name; that he was a fake reporter; and he worked for a fake news organization. Jeff, aka James D. Guckert, was a Republican Party operative who worked for a propagada organization called GOPUSA. He had been rejected for membership in the House Press Gallery because he could not demonstrate that Talon News was an independent news organization. But he was given day passes for two years by the White House Press Office — thus avoiding the customary security investigation. He was allowed to sit four rows from the White House press secretary — and sometimes the president — apparently in order to lob them softball questions when they got in a jam.
But Guckert was more than a partisan operative infiltrating and undercutting the press corps in order to assist the White House spin machine. An FBI background check would likely have uncovered what the bloggers found out — that Guckert was the owner of several web sites that apparently advertised his services as a prostitute. Bloggers at The Daily Kos first uncovered these web sites, but John Aravosis at AmericaBlog, obtained invoices that showed Guckert had apparently owned and created the web sites and provided the content — including provocative photos advertising his services for $200 an hour or $1200 a weekend. Guckert told Anderson Cooper on CNN that "…I have made mistakes in my past. These are of a personal and private nature…". Beyond that, he neither admitted nor denied anything, but when asked, he insisted that neither his employer nor the White House knew anything about his, ahem, private activities.
This was very clever spin. This aspect of the story is not about Guckert's private life; it is about his paid, publicly advertised professional life. I have yet to see any published information on Guckert's actual private life. In media interviews, Guckert has not denied, but he has refused to discuss his true profession. Over the past two weeks, the mainstream media has picked up on the story in fits and starts, but it has mostly been the bloggers who have unearthed new details on an almost daily basis. Guckert resigned from Talon News on February 9th, and all of his stories were purged from its web site — but Guckert's male escort web sites are now apparently hot properties — and are up for sale.
Among the many scandalous aspects of L'Affaire Gannon, Guckert and Talon News also figure into the investigation of the Bush administration's leak of the name of undercover CIA agent Valerie Plame, wife of former U.S. Ambassador Joseph Wilson. Wilson had angered the administration when he revealed in an op-ed in The New York Times, that when the Bush administration sent him to Niger to investigate whether Iraq had sought to purchase uranium, he found no evidence that it had. This finding undercut the Administration's claim that that Iraq had done so, as president Bush had claimed in a speech to Congress justifying the war. As it turned out, the only evidence the president had was a fake memo of uncertain provenance.
Gannon interviewed Ambassador Wilson, and published this question: "An internal government memo prepared by U.S. intelligence personnel details a meeting in early 2002 where your wife, a member of the agency for clandestine service working on Iraqi weapons issues, suggested that you could be sent to investigate the reports. Do you dispute that?" Well, CIA officials say that Plame had not been at the meeting, but the question now being publicly aired, is how did non-reporter Guckert get access to a classified memo? Speculation is rife that Guckert and Talon News were and are part of a wide-ranging White House propaganda effort that has included the smearing of Wilson and the outing of Plame.
As White House Correspondent and Washington Bureau Chief for Talon News, Gannon was best known for taking White House press releases and putting them out under his byline as if they were his own words. Another Talon News writer, Steve Roeder has been accused of routinely plagiarizing material from Fox News, Reuters, and The New York Times, according to Raw Story, (citing progressive blogger, Ron Brynaert) which has closely followed the unfolding of the Gannongate scandal.
While it has taken some time, the scandal is now spreading rapidly: For example over the past few days Raw Story, obtained a letter being circulated by U.S. Senate Democrats, formally requesting President Bush to launch a full investigation. How, they wonder, did a fake reporter, working for a "sham" news organization gain access to the White House? Salon reports that Guckert was attending White House news conferences before Talon News even existed. And not only did Guckert enjoy unusual access to the White House via the press office, but Salon further reports that he was invited to White House Christmas parties in 2003 and 2004.
The Daily Kos is maintaining an investigative file on the unfolding scandal, adhering to the philosophy of "open source." Media Matters for America, founded by former conservative activist David Brock, has also been dogging the Gannongate story and pressing for a formal investigation.
The remarkable, and unprecedented collaborative investigation by the blogging community has caused some in the mainstream media fits and embarrassment. "Jeff" had sat amidst the elite of the American and international press corps for two years: he was called on by the president; he asked loaded partisan questions — and not one of them had bothered to look into Gannon or his obviously fake news organization.
OK, time to get over it.
Gannongate is not really about bloggers or the injured pride of the White House press corps and the journalism profession. It's increasingly apparent that this is a story about a covert propaganda operation that infiltrated the White House press corps, very likely with the collaboration and direction of the White House staff. That the operative may also have been a prostitute is interesting, but not as interesting as the planting of Guckert inside the White House press corps and the activities he carried out at the behest of his sponsors.
2 Responses to 'The Growing Gannongate Scandal'
Frederick, I like your post. I especially tip my hat to you for turning me on to the dKosopedia. I did a post to it on my blog at http://www.livejournal.com/users/sachem_head/80234.html. Cheers!
Thanks, S.H. The dKosopedia will likley be an important resource as cooperation and organization in the blogging community grows. No doubt, it will be helpful for plain old iconoclasts as well;-)


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Current Undergraduate
Student News
Political History of Olympics Captured in New Book by Pacific University Professor Jules Boykoff
Published by Verso Books, Power Games chronicles the modern Olympic Games' social implications.
Ecuadorian Alumnus Reaches Out After Earthquake
Xavier Muñoz '00 is safe following the April 16 earthquake in Ecuador, but he's reaching out to friends around the world for support for his country.
Center For Peace And Spirituality Releases 2015-2016 Annual Report
The Pacific University Center for Peace and Spirituality (CPAS) has released an Annual Report for the 2015-2016 academic year.
Changes to myAccount
UIS will be updating the web site interface for myAccount on May 17 to provide better support for mobile devices.
Campus Wellness Newsletter - May 2016
Students can win a $20 Starbucks gift card.
Changes to Boxer Guest Wireless
UIS has implemented changes to the Boxer Guest wireless network to make it easier for invited guests to login. An article on how to use the Boxer Guest wireless network can be found in the Helpdesk Knowledge Base.
In the News: Biology Professor David Scholnick Joins Colleagues in D.C. to Advocate Research
The professor behind the Shrimp on a Treadmill research explains its value to lawmakers.
Pacific Celebrates Community Partners
Pacific University well honor current students, alumni, faculty, staff and partners of the university for their work in civic engagement at the Community Collaboration Celebration event April 26.


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I am a lucky girl. I feel blessed, fortunate and totally present. Because I survived cancer? Sure. Because I found love after two divorces? Why not. Because I learned so much through participating in the Welfare Food Challenge? Absolutely. Just … Continue reading
welfare rates RSS
Letter of the Week: We know what to do about poverty, but we won't
It's that time of year when once again we all wring our collective hands over the shameful state of child poverty in B.C. Those shocking statistics are hard to swallow when one looks around our beautiful Vancouver streets at the … Continue reading


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Two great issues define this moment in America. War in Iraq and economic turbulence dominate debates, fears and campaigns. Optimistic pitches can be heard about the effectiveness of the surge in Iraq and policy responses to sub-prime driven economic pain. Many and influential voices loudly tout economic and military success. Public perception on both fronts lags pundit wisdom. Polling data suggests that more and more Americans oppose staying in Iraq and believe the US is already in recession. There is an unusual disconnect between general opinion, policy and reality. All we can know for sure is that either the general public or leadings voices are very, very wrong.
The surge in Iraq and the surge in Federal Reserve Rate cuts are very similar. Both involve heavily spun attempts by authorities to postpone pain and avoid responsibility for past miscalculation. Each policy offers more of what created present trouble as cure. This can last a while, not forever. Loose money and narcotic debt dreams fueled the housing run-up. Fear of loss was contained by assurances of endless credit, permanently increasing housing prices and omnipotent Federal Reserve management. The bottom dropped out of these dreams in late 2006 and we began to admit the long obvious truths in the spring of 2007. Before spring 2008 dawned, the Federal Reserve, Treasury Department and experts were massively intervening to slash rates, offer larger and longer loans to more institutions and assure that the genie was already being put back into the bottle. A broke government was going to hand out magic checks- with borrowed money of course- to a broke public. This entailed trying something new. Deficit spending and expensive, impotent cash hand-outs are so alien to business as usual in America. The solution to a debt fueled explosion was to offer more credit for less cost to a greater array of large and largely indebted financial firms. The folks at home, some of them anyway, would be getting $300-$1200 a few months after lenders and investors received several hundred billion in new loans, lower costs and credit access. A bigger brassier credit and assurance surge would do what past credit provision and assurance failed to do. It has, so far. It has also left in many out in the cold. They are poorer, angrier and worse off then they were last year.
The troop surge in Iraq was much the same. In January 2007 President Bush announced a troop surge to stem violence in Iraq and violently falling US support for his policy there. In response to much mayhem and death, the administration announced plans to send more troops, extend the tours of many and increase the US military presence in Iraq. In March 2007- eerily almost exactly a year before the Fed economic surge- President Bush and Company decided to send a further surge of troops into Afghanistan and Iraq. Why? US and coalition military "progress" in both nations was inadequate, public support was waning and more of past failed policy was just what was needed. Like the Fed and Treasury responding to economic crises, The Administration decided that more manpower and money- more of the same- was the best redress. Faced with falling house prices, slowing economic conditions and serious debt problems economic officials decided on a surge in Federal Reserve credit creation.
The similarities do not end here. Rapid shifts in press attention away from negative stories and toward details of surge action help to deflect attention and awareness. The surges of money and manpower become the story. Lost in the rush of new exciting details and minor strategy debates are the actual issues. What caused the great housing bubble to inflate and burst? Why are our wars in Iraq and Afghanistan so profoundly bloody and unsuccessful? Might there be serious problems with our conduct and policy? Nope, these questions are not even worth asking! Instead let's engineer perception by debating the details of surging increases in failed policy initiatives. This is very slowing working less and less well with the general public. Housing prices keep falling, inventories of unsold homes keep rising and the labor market remains weak. Gas, food and many other prices keep rising, the Dollar remains weak. Iraq remains bloody- if less so- and our young men and women keep being maimed and killed. The perception, particularly the perception of those least hurt by failures and most helped by surges improves.
More and more surge and rhetoric is required to move fewer and fewer people's attitudes. More spending and spinning offers less and less return. This is how bubbles burst. More and more is required for less and less gain. So it was with the housing bubble and the War. Recent economic and war polling suggests that an increasing number of our fellow citizens have declining faith in surges and growing fears of impending realities.


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David Fincher's "The Social Network" led the winners of the London Film Critics Circle Awards, taking best picture, best director, best screenwriter and best supporting actor Andrew Garfield. Homegrown "The King's Speech" was also a big winner, taking best British film, best British director and bes...Read More »
The Gay & Lesbian Entertainment Critics Association today announced winners for the group's second annual Dorian Awards, which honor their picks for the best in film and television "of all kinds." Notable winners include "I Am Love" for Film of the Year, Annette Bening for Film Performance of the Ye...Read More »
The Black Film Critics Circle (BFCC) has voted 'The Social Network' the best film of 2010 i their inaugural awards. The organization - dedicated to honoring excellence of professionals in the film industry in U.S. and World Cinema - also has awarded best director to Darren Aronofsky ('Black Swan'),...Read More »
The Iowa Film Critics have announced their annual awards, with David Fincher's "The Social Network" leading the pack with wins for picture and director.Read More »
David Fincher's "The Social Network" topped the generally predictable winners of the 16th annual Critics' Choice Movie Awards, handed out this evening by the Broadcast Film Critics Association. The film - which details the origins of Facebook - took awards for best picture, best director, best adapt...Read More »
The Vancouver Film Critics Circle have announced the winners of their annual awards, in separate categories for overall films and Canadian films. Denis Villeneuve's "Incendies" and David Fincher's "The Social Network" were among the major winners.Read More »
The North Texas Film Critics Association has announced their annual awards, with Christopher Nolan's "Inception" leading the way.Read More »
David Fincher's exploration of the story behind Facebook, "The Social Network," has completed its essentially sweep of the 2010 critics awards, taking best picture honors with the National Society of Film Critics' 45th annual kudos. The film also won awards for best director (Fincher), best actor (J...Read More »
The Central Ohio Film Critics Association have announced the nominations for their annual awards, with the expected likes of "The Social Network," "True Grit," "Black Swan," "The King's Speech" and "The Fighter" among the major nominees.Read More »
The Online Film Critics Society has announced the winners of the 2010 OFCS Awards, with David Fincher's "The Social Network" leading the way with wins for best picture, best director and best adapted screenplay. Other major winners included "Inception," taking best original screenplay and best editi...Read More »


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A closer look at how Iran, Israel and Saudia Arabia and other countries could be effected, as well a breakdown of the factions fighting in the war-torn country
If fully implemented, it would also bring American planes in regular, close proximity to bases, aircraft and air defenses operated by the Syrian government
The statement identified the woman as Kayla Jean Mueller and said that no Islamic State militants were killed during the airstrikes
Information taken included details of the Syrian opposition's strategy, tactical battle plans, supply needs and large amounts of personal information
Former Gen. John Allen discussed the air exclusion zone with high ranking Turkish officials during his trip there earlier this month, according to U.S. officials.
Why can't the U.S.-led coalition prevent a ragtag insurgent army from overrunning large towns? The answers speak to the limitations imposed on the military campaign by President Obama.
Twin bombings near an elementary school killed at least 32 people, with the second blast going off as screaming parents frantically searched for their sons and daughters
The military chief of the Free Syrian army pleaded for Western allies to send more aid to help his moderate forces halt the advance of Islamic militants
The violent actions and speedy successes of the same group in Iraq, against a government the West does essentially support, seem to align with his argument
Ban Ki-moon urged the Iraqi government not to retaliate against Sunnis in revenge for 'barbaric attacks' by the Al-Qaeda-inspired Islamic State of Iraq and Al-Sham


text: Webexclusive Pastel Mixed Shells Filler Item #: 124867 $14.99 $11.97 Qty: Sorry, this item is currently unavailable online. Ship to Home Ship to Store (FREE) No coastal décor is complete without the Pastel Mixed Shells Filler bag! Featuring an array of beautiful white, red, and brown seashells and a coral starfish, set these shells in a vase, jar, or a bowl for a simple, elegant tabletop display. Seashells come in a variety of shapes and sizes Real seashells Bag includes seashells and a starfish Shells come in a vinyl bag Hues of white, ivory, brown, pink, and yellow Perfect for display in vases or glass jars This item is available at Kirklands.com only, not available in stores. Sorry, this item is currently unavailable online.


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This classic blend was created by using the ancient technique of fermenting uncrushed berries with native yeast from the grapes. After aging for 1 year in French barrels, it was bottled without finings or filtration. A further 12 months bottle aging took place prior to release.
In 1918 in the wake of the Great Flu Epidemic an orphanage, Die Herberg, was built by the Robertson community for the children left orphaned and destitute.
In 2003 a 5ha vineyard was planted on the orphanage's grounds by the same community. All planting materials, soilpreparation and irrigation were donated. This blend is made for free by sympathetic cellars and sold in aid of the children, who today are no longer all orphans but mainly from broken homes.100% of the grapes for this blend is grown on the ophanage's grounds and 100% of the profit is donated to the children. Only true audited costs are remunerated, time and effort can't be recompensed.
None of the children in Herberg Children's Home in Robertson originate from homes and communities where the sun proverbially always shines and where there is always lovely weather. The background of our children is characterised by dark and threatening clouds that sometimes creates the feeling of being pushed into the ground. Thunderchild very accurately describes our children in the most beautiful way - the wonderful power of nature.
These children are nature's wonders who fight through the most threatening and thundering clouds - children that overcome the darkness with the light and beauty and power of an electrical storm, in such a manner that we who deal with them, often stand amazed by their ability to shine brightly after darkness, trauma, hurt and longing. They are in the real sense true Thunderchildren.
Additional Information
|Red Wine
|John Platter Ratings
|Winery / Producer
|Medium/Full Bodied
|Ready, but will keep
|Grape Variety
|Bordeaux Style Red Blend
|Bottle Size
|Bottle 75cl
|Alcohol (ABV)
|Residual Sugar
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This week's user story features Watts Law Group P.C. & M. Stan Herring P.C., a consumer law firm based in Birmingham, Alabama. We came across a post on the firm's blog, highlighting how they use Box.net as a digital archive for all their legal documents. I caught up with John G. Watts, one of the firm's founding partners for a few more details.
Lots of Paper
Anyone familiar with the life of an attorney knows that it is filled with all kinds of paper, which can pile up pretty quickly with just one client. Multiply that by a growing volume of consumer litigation cases and the paper starts to pile up pretty high and fast. As John and Stan's firm took on more cases and dealt with attorneys from large national firms, they wanted to scan all of their documents to make them more accessible on the go. While they evaluated their options for storing and managing these documents, a fellow attorney recommended Box.net.
Sharing is Good
Accessing files on the go? Check. Ample storage? Ditto. But where Box really shines is giving John and Stan's firm the ability to share and exchange sensitive and confidential files with opposing counsel, wherever they happen to be. They also find Box convenient for managing documents from assistants working remotely in Birmingham, as well as outside the country. Instead of sending over hard copies of legal documents or burning and mailing CDs, the firm uses Box to share password-protected links to files and folders with their assistants and other attorneys. This not only makes the exchange of information fast and more complete, but also more secure. The exchange goes both ways, as the firm also has folders set up on Box where other attorneys can post files they need to send over. It works out well and saves everyone a lot of time.
No Objections Here...
The legal world may be steeped in long-standing traditions, but the days of sending files in real boxes or jewel case-clad CDs, at least for this firm, are over. And till this day, John and Stan have yet to receive a complaint from opposing counsel.
As for what happens after those files change hands, that could be another story...