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Happy new year from Palo Alto! Please, I have been working for an inordinately long time trying to create some code for something that should be pretty basic. I have written some nice, simple PHP code that generates a random 11 digit alphanumeric codes, called $elevendigits, like this one:
What I now need to do is write some code that generates a check digit according to the Modulus 10 - - sometimes called Luhn - - standard. Let's call it it $checkdigit. It will be the twelfth digit.
I would have thought this an off-the-shelf function but, can't seem to get anything to work. It would need to:
Please, can anyone help me with the code necessary to accomplish this? I would have thought it easy, but am failing. Thank you sincerely!
It is a pretty simple method to write in PHP, as long as you understand the principle for how the Luhn Algorithm work, which it seems you do.
The difference with your project is that you also need to consider letters, and convert them as you hit any.
I am also not sure why you don't reuse the method you created to make these numbers for the validation as well? You would just need to change it from setting the last digit, to validating it instead.
Give it another try and I'm sure your able to figure it out, remember modulus is your friend. If you run into problems, post your code here and we can take a look and help you out.
Found that via a google search, you could perhaps use that as a "blueprint" with each "step" being a seperate little section of code and wrap it up in a function.
Thank you, The Red Devil and Space Phoenix, for your encouragement. Here's the code that I have so far:
//generate a random string of 11 alphanumeric characters without vowels
function random_string()
$character_set_array = array();
$character_set_array[] = array('count' => 11, 'characters' => 'BCDFGHJKLMNPQRSTVWXYZ0123456789');
$temp_array = array();
foreach ($character_set_array as $character_set) {
for ($i = 0; $i < $character_set['count']; $i++) {
$temp_array[] = $character_set['characters'][rand(0, strlen($character_set['characters']) - 1)];
return implode('', $temp_array);
//change all letters to numbers based on ordinal position and starting with B as eleven
$randomdigits = str_replace('B','11', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('C','12', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('D','13', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('F','15', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('G','16', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('H','17', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('J','19', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('K','20', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('L','21', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('M','22', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('N','23', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('P','25', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('Q','26', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('R','27', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('S','28', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('T','29', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('V','31', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('W','32', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('X','33', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('Y','34', $randomdigits);
$randomdigits = str_replace('Z','35', $randomdigits);
So now, we wind up with $randomdigits as only numberals, which is great. But alas, that's all I've been able to accomplish so far. I still need to multiply every other digit of $randomdigits by 2 starting with the right-most digit; convert any two-digit products from the preceding step into 2 one-digit numbers; add all the digits together; and finallysubtract the sum from the next highest number ending in zero to yield the check digit.
I am diligent, but stuck. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thank you very much.
Hmm, ok. Yea, I can see why you might be a little stuck.
You are looking on this from perhaps the wrong perspective, and perhaps a little too procedural If you have the time, I would recommend you to read up on OOP, it would greatly improve your development speed.
I have wrote a function for you that should work for both generating the validation number, as well as validating a complete number as well.
To use the different functions, you would change to the correct return method. One will give you the correct validation number that is missing, the other will tell you if the number is valid (bool).When fetching the correct validation number it is important that you append a "x" (or any other number or character) to the end of the string. I.e. in your first post you mentioned "FFM00976YH5", when passing this number along you would pass it as "FFM00976YH5x", and then just replacing the x afterwards with the correct validation number.
function luhnAlgorithm($checkNumber) {
$characters = array_flip(range('B', 'Z'));
$length = strlen($checkNumber) - 1;
$total_sum = 0;
$cur_num = 0;
for ($num=($length-1);$num >= 0;--$num) {
if (!ctype_digit((string) $checkNumber[$num])) {
$sum = $characters[$checkNumber[$num]] + 11;
else {
$sum = $checkNumber[$num];
if ($cur_num++ % 2 == 0) {
$sum *= 2;
if ($sum > 9) {
$sum = substr($sum, 0, 1) + substr($sum, 1, 1);
$total_sum += $sum;
return (10 - ($total_sum % 10));//Use this to return the missing validation number, note has to be passed with x in the end
//return (($total_sum + $checkNumber[$length]) % 10 == 0); //Use this to validate the 12 digit number
EDIT:Forgot to mention that I have not tested the code, but it should work. In the event you have any problems, please let us know what is happening and we can help sort it out.
So, procedurally (Trying to wrap my head around the algorithm in 30 seconds)For a given string
$string = "FFM00976YH5";
1: str_replace letters with numbers . This gives you a pure-digit string of variable length.
$string = str_replace(range('B','Z'),range('11','35'),$string)
2: Iterate to every other digit, starting from the right and walking back to the start.
for ($x = count($string)-1; $x >= 0; $x -= 2)
3: Double the value and Sum (via type juggling)
$sum += array_sum(str_split(($string[$x] * 2)));
4: Apply the math X*9 Mod 10;
$cd = ($sum * 9) % 10;
$cd is now my Check Digit.
Did i miss anything?
Point one would be wrong if you are looking for a true implementation of the algorithm, since you would treat B as 11 and not as 1 and 1 later on.
In your example the string "FFM00976YH5" would be treated as "1515220097634175" so the string goes from being 11 + Validation number to 16 + Validation number, and the length would vary depending on the number of characters in the string/number.
Point two is also not correct as you just illiterate over ever second number, while you also need to add every odd number to the sum as well (without doubling it).
Point three is correct, only thing is that you need the addition for the odd numbers which should not be doubled.
Point four, I am not sure why you are multiplying with 9 here?
On a side note if the validation is only for internal use, any way its implemented will work. The problem would be if you want it to work off other already established systems.
Or did i misinterpret your desire to convert the numbers (whole numbers instead of individual digits)? That would change the code to something along the lines of...
For a given string
1: Iterate to every other character, starting from the right and walking back to the start.
for ($x = count($string)-1; $x >= 0; $x -= 2) {
2: str_replace letters with numbers .
$char = str_replace(range('B','Z'),range('11','35'),$string[$x])
$sum += array_sum(str_split(($char * 2)));
(step 2 and 3 could be combined, but for clarity i left them seperate)
Altered in my second post (made while you were posting!)
In your example the string "FFM00976YH5" would be treated as "1515220097634175" so the string goes from being 11 + Validation number to 16 + Validation number, and the length would vary depending on the number of characters in the string/number. hence "variable length".
Point two is also not correct as you just illiterate over ever second number, while you also need to add every odd number to the sum as well (without doubling it).
In your example the string "FFM00976YH5" would be treated as "1515220097634175" so the string goes from being 11 + Validation number to 16 + Validation number, and the length would vary depending on the number of characters in the string/number. hence "variable length".
Ah... yes, that will necessitate a little extra code... below.
According to wikipedia, there are two methods of obtaining the value;subtracting the modulo value from 10, or multiplying by 9 and taking the modulo of the result. Either way it's 2 mathematical operations.
Entirely agree.
Code modified:
$string = "FFM00976YH5";
$string = strrev($string); //Turn the string around so that $x has meaning.
for ($x = 0; $x < strlen($string); $x++) {
$char = str_replace(range('B','Z'),range('11','35'),$string[$x]);
$sum += array_sum(str_split(($char * pow(2,(($x+1) % 2)))));
$cd = ($sum * 9) % 10;
I'm happy to report that I have a working cluster of code, thanks to the generous contributions of StarLion and The Red Devil. Part of the trouble I was having came from not recognizing that my host was running only PHP 4, which caused the str_split call to return undefined. But with encouragement from StarLion and The Red Devil, I plugged through and created a workaround using preg_split. Everything now works fine.
I am extremely grateful to StarLion and The Red Devil, without whom I would not have figured this out. Thank you!
Ask you host if they have the option of running php5 as php4 is no longer supported. If they don't give some thought about moving hosts to one that does.
Support for PHP 4 has been discontinued since 2007-12-31. Please consider upgrading to PHP 5. from: http://php.net/releases/index.php
The current stable release listed is 5.4.10


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E.L.F. Blush Reviews
AverageI've heard a lot of good things about this blush on YouTube, so I decided to give it a try and ordered five different shades: "Blushing Rose", "Candid Coral", "Giddy Gold", "Peachy Keen" and "Tickled Pink"... All of these except for "Giddy Gold" had pretty decent reviews. My personal experience with these blushes is not that great. The only colour I occasionally use is "Blushing Rose" and even ...read morethat is only because I don't want all of them to go to waste, since I never touch the lighter colours. So if I know it's going to be a very "average" day for me, then I use this "average" (in my opinion) blush. What I don't like about it is that it's powdery and not well pigmented, especially the lighter colours. I know I will never use the lighter colours because in order for me to see any colour on my cheeks I would have to apply a crazy amount of this, and since it isn't buildable and is powdery - it will look ridiculous. This also makes is no very long-lasting, so even the colour that I do occasionally use needs to be retouched throughout the day. The only thing this blush has going for it is that it does go on very smoothly and it doesn't look patchy at all. So maybe if you are extremely pale, and want just a hint of colour on your cheeks, this might work for you. And yes, I know it's only $3.00, but if you are on a budget, put in another 3 or so dollars (depending on where you live) and go with "Revlon" Colorstay or something like that. You will use less of it, and it will last you double as much because it has a longer staying power. So no, I can't say that I would recommend this blush to anyone, in spite of the fact that there are a lot of ELF products I do like and use. — 3 years, 9 months agoNikatron | 150 reviews
This review is: Helpful | Not helpful | Inappropriate | 7 of 8 people said helpful
Not long lasting at all.....No pigmentation at all. It's like almost putting nothing on. As soon as I put this on, the color fades away under one hour. I got this in Twinkle Pink and it's very powdery. It seems to have a lot of fallouts. Can't complain much since it was really cheap anyways. — 3 years, 1 month agobeautypoet101 | 581 reviews
Good enoughI actually really like ELF products; every so often I do a haul from the website and it is like Christmas morning! :) People have been crazy for their blushes but I just think they are ok. The blush choice is extremely limited; I believe there are 5 options for blush color. The price is right at around $3. I find that after a few uses, the texture changes and becomes a bit more rough for lack of a...read more better description. Except for Pink Passion, I didn't find that most of them were all that pigmented either. They are good in a pinch if you need to run into Target or Walgreens but I wouldn't necessarily use them as an everyday blush. On the plus side, the packaging is sleek and modern and there is a mirror. Although I think the WNW blushes are silkier and better quality for the same price, ELF does have a better all around package. I have tried all colors and Pink Passion is my only favorite. — 2 years, 6 months agopixie_dust | 492 reviews
This review is: Helpful | Not helpful | Inappropriate | 0 of 2 people said helpful
PrettyI have ELF's studio bronzer in Peachy Keen. It is a very pretty tan/peach color. The color payoff however is a bit sheer, so you might have to apply it more than once. The shimmer/glitter is not overpowering, so that's why I like it. — 4 years agohleeee | 210 reviews
This review is: Helpful | Not helpful | Inappropriate | 1 of 1 people said helpful
Cheap stuffI don't really like elf products but if I'm in a pinch I can run into a Walgreens or Target and it's always available. the blush comes in great tones although I find the quality is not that great, you get what you pay for. — 7 years, 9 months agoTBjunkie | 692 reviews
This review is: Helpful | Not helpful | Inappropriate | 0 of 4 people said helpful
Excellent product!This particular review is for the elf baked blushes (i didn't see a category for these ones). If you were to ask me which elf Cosmetics product I use the most often, I would have to say the elf Cosmetics Baked Blushes they are definitely my favorite elf product of all time. I purchased all 4 colors when elf had a 50% off sale, regular price these are $3.00 but I snagged them for $1.50 each which ...read moreis a total steal! The colors are in order of how the elf site has them listed: Peachy Cheeky, Pinktastic, Passion Pink, and Rich Rose. 1) Peachy Cheeky is a pink color with a hint of peach to it. 2) Pinktastic is a very light pink color with more white frost to it; perfect to use as a highlighter. 3) Passion Pink is a deeper rose color. 4) Rich Rose is a dark rose color with hints of brown, perfect for contouring. In my opinion, all four blushes are perfect for any skintone because you get a variety of shades which can be used as a highlighter, bronzer/contouring, and blush! Don't be fooled by the dark deep colors in the pictures, the blushes do apply lighter on the skin. What I love about these blushes is that they are easily blendable, the color lasts all day on the skin, no fading whatsoever, and all the colors are so natural. The colors are not matte so they all offer a slight highlight effect but that's what I love about them, also because they look very natural on the skin. I use these blushes on a daily basis, depending whether I want to contour, highlight or have a pop of blush color on! I love these blushes and I highly recommend all of them to anyone out there, no matter what skintone or age, these blushes will look great on anyone! Below are swatches, they may look different depending on your skintone, but you get the idea that none are matte, they all have a bit of frost, and can work well for any purpose (blush, contour, highlight): — 4 years, 5 months agoGlitzGlamBudget | 135 reviews
This review is: Helpful | Not helpful | Inappropriate | 7 of 18 people said helpful
E.L.F. BlushI have the Twinkle Pink shade and the color is a dead on dupe for Nars O_gasm-- same shade of peachy pink with glitter specks. It's very wearable; I was worried the glitter might be come off looking Vegas- show girl-ish, but it gave off a nice shimmery look instead. It's well pigmented so I don'thave to pile it on. It hasn't clogged my pores or made me break out either. This is a fantastic value. — 3 years, 7 months agorunee89 | 299 reviews
excellentexcellent color, tone , feel and coverage! — 7 years, 9 months agobrassa | 447 reviews
This review is: Helpful | Not helpful | Inappropriate | 0 of 4 people said helpful
Depends on the Color, 'Pink Passion' is A Must-HaveI originally purchased this blush in "candid coral", a dark coral mauve which looked great in the package. The color did not come off well even when using a kabuki brush and looked dull on my face. It doesn't brighten the way blush is supposed to. Then I saw this blush's other shade, "pink passion" on a beauty blog and decided to take another chance on elf's blush line. It looks like a neon pink i...read moren the product's pan but just a little swipe of it on the apple of your cheek and my skin was instantly brightened. It looks intimidating in the pan but its a classic, girly pink blush that seemed to last all day for me. And because you have to use so little of it, it lasts seemingly forever. And you can't beat elf's prices. I really suggest taking a chance on "pink passion", it's a cheap staple. — 4 years, 2 months agomoriarty.kt | 213 reviews
This review is: Helpful | Not helpful | Inappropriate | 1 of 1 people said helpful
BLAHI bought this hoping it would work but it didnt even have a good amount of pigment on my cheeks. — 3 years, 4 months agohappylittlemess | 71 reviews
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My Reasons for Reporting This

subset: commoncrawl


text: Show Hide image Politics 3 April 2012 Young people in China prefer brands that reduce carbon emissions Concerns about the environment are higher in Asia than in the west. Sign up for our weekly email * In a study of 2,500 young adults aged between 18 and 25 across five continents, commissioned by the Carbon Trust and conducted by TNS, 83 per cent of those surveyed in China said they would be more loyal to a brand if they could see it was reducing its carbon footprint, compared to 73 per cent in South Korea, 55 per cent in the UK and 57 per cent in the US. Sixty per cent of young adults in China who participated in the research said that they would stop buying a product if its producer refused to commit to measuring and reducing its carbon footprint. In Brazil, 57 per cent said they would do the same; in Korea, the figure was 53 per cent; it was 35 per cent in the US and 36 per cent in the UK. Tom Delay, chief executive of the Carbon Trust, said: These new findings are startling. Sixty per cent of young adults questioned in China would stop buying a product if its manufacturer refused to commit to measuring and reducing its carbon footprint, compared to just 35 per cent of those in the US. Perhaps it is the Chinese, and not the US consumer, that really holds the key to unlocking the mass demand for new low-carbon products necessary to deliver an environmentally sustainable economy. If global brands don't build international carbon reduction strategies even faster, they risk missing out on the spending power of emerging economies. Eighty-one per cent of those questioned in Brazil said that companies should be obliged to provide proof of their policy to reduce their carbon footprint, higher than any other nation; 68 per cent of those surveyed worldwide want to see companies' carbon impact quantified by an independent organisation. This is highest in China at 84 per cent and lowest in the US at 55 per cent. Across all the markets, a third of young consumers (33 per cent) on average say that they are prepared to buy a more expensive product if it has a lower carbon footprint. When asked which products and categories could do the most to reduce their carbon footprint, 68 per cent of young consumers cited consumer electronics companies, followed by consumer health-care brands (50 per cent), clothes manufacturers and retailers (50 per cent), and food manufacturers and retailers (48 per cent). Through its carbon-reduction and footprinting services, Carbon Trust customers around the world have put £3.7bn on their bottom line and cut their carbon emissions by 38 million tonnes. Delay added: Carbon footprinting makes perfect business sense. We are increasingly advising businesses overseas, and international brands, on their carbon-reduction strategies, as the financial and reputational benefits of lowering emissions go global. The research, conducted between 24 February and 6 March 2012, found that across the six markets, 78 per cent want their favourite brands to help reduce their carbon footprint; 70 per cent would be more loyal to a brand if they could see it was reducing its carbon footprint. Meanwhile, 46 per cent would find carbon footprinting on packaging useful and it would influence their purchasing decisions; 33 per cent would buy a more expensive product if it had a lower carbon footprint; 29 per cent want to reduce their carbon footprint but are confused about how to go about it; 28 per cent are trying to reduce their carbon footprint but feel they could do more and 21 per cent feel they are doing their bit to reduce their carbon footprint. Young adults believe consumer electronics (68 per cent), consumer health-care brands (50 per cent), clothes manufacturers and retailers (50 per cent) and food manufacturers and retailers (48 per cent) have the greatest responsibility to reduce their carbon footprints. Subscribe from just £1 per issue More


text:
The holiday season is a busy time. Between year-end work projects, travel plans and family obligations, December can feel like a time-crunched month.
Despite the hectic holiday rush, it's important to devote some time to essential end-of-the-year financial tasks. Here are four:
1. Use your FSA. There are two primary types of tax-advantaged health savings accounts in the U.S., the health savings account, or HSA, and the flexible spending account, or FSA.
Many people confuse the two, so let me make an important distinction: Money in an HSA carries over year-to-year, money in an FSA does not.
That means FSA holders should spend down the balance in their accounts. It's time to visit the eye doctor, order contact lenses, get your teeth cleaned and get that routine checkup you've been putting off. FSA funds can also be used to cover co-pays, deductibles, qualified prescriptions, insulin and medical devices.
The federal government allows employers, at their option, to extend workers a 2.5-month "grace period" to use the balance in their FSA accounts after the end of the plan year. That means you may (or may not) have an extension until March 15 to use your FSA balance, depending on your employer's policies.
2. Reduce taxes in your portfolio. Many investors choose to rebalance their portfolios once a year. You may want to do so before Dec. 31 so you can reduce your tax burden by locking in your losses or offsetting your gains during this calendar year.
Of course, you should talk to a tax professional about the smartest tax-related moves for your personal situation. Pencil in two appointments on your calendar: one with your tax adviser, and another with your financial planner.
3. Make charitable donations. While meeting with your tax adviser, ask him or her about the tax effects of charitable donations you are considering. You might want to make donations before the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve so you can count the contribution toward your 2012 taxes. Of course, it's also possible your tax adviser may recommend deferring charitable contributions until January, depending on your tax situation.
4. Keep holiday spending in check. Monitor your checking account balance regularly as you spend money this holiday season on gifts, travel, meals and donations. It's easy to blow your budget without realizing it.
Paula Pant blogs at AffordAnything.com about creating wealth and living life on your own terms. She's traveled to nearly 30 countries, owns five rental properties and owes her great life to strong money-management principles. Follow Paula on Twitter @AffordAnything.


text:
What is a funeral trust?
A funeral trust is a contract you enter into with a provider of funeral or burial services. Often, the trust is entered into directly with the funeral home, which may agree to "lock in" costs for future funeral or burial services at an agreed upon price. The funeral home sometimes serves as trustee (manager of trust assets), and you usually fund the trust with cash, bonds, or life insurance. A revocable funeral trust can be changed and revoked by you at any time. An irrevocable trust can't be changed or revoked, and you generally can't get your money out except to pay for funeral services.
Irrevocable funeral trusts may also help you qualify for long-term care benefits through Medicaid. These trusts may be funded with assets that would otherwise be countable resources for Medicaid. They are also often sold through insurance companies, in which case they are typically funded with single-premium whole life insurance. Trust assets, including life insurance death benefits, are not countable resources when trying to qualify for long-term care benefits through Medicaid. And you can fund the funeral trust right before entering the nursing home--there's no "look-back" period for these transfers.
Another advantage of funding your trust with life insurance is that the trust will have no taxable income to report, since life insurance cash values grow tax deferred. Otherwise, income from trust assets may be taxed to you as the trustor (creator of the trust) unless the trustee elects to treat the trust as a qualified funeral trust by filing form 1041-QFT with the IRS, in which case trust income is taxed to the trust.
But what if you want to change funeral homes, or the facility you selected goes out of business? Does your irrevocable trust allow you to change beneficiaries (e.g., funeral homes)? Are trust funds protected from creditors of the funeral home? States have laws regulating prepaid funeral trusts that often require funeral homes to keep trust assets separate from their own business assets--keeping them safe from funeral home creditors. And most irrevocable trusts are transferable to another funeral home should the initial business fail or you change funeral homes.


text:
James "Raymond" Orechea, 321stBG, 446thBS, 57thBW
2009 — Mass.
"Raymond" was born to George J and Mabel E Orechia, in Massachusetts » MIDDLESEX » WALTHAM CITY, WARD 1 » 9-486 » Sheet 23a in 1920 0r 1921
321stBG,446thBS, T/Sgt. James "Raymond" Orechea, Radio/Gunner, KIA 15 May '44
James "Raymond" Orechia was a Radio-Gunner in the U.S. Army Air Force; 12th Air Force; 57th Bombardment Wing; 321st Bombardment Group, 446th Winged Group Squadron; aboard B-25 Mitchell Aircraft, stationed in the MTO=Mediterranean Theater of Operations, during World War Two.
On 24 January 1944, James R. Orechia was promoted from Corporal to Technical Sergeant.
In April 1944 James R. Orechia was Awarded the "Air Medal"
In April, 1944 the 321st Bombardment Group transferred to its new base at Solenzara, Corsica from its previous base at Vincenzo Airfield near Naples, Italy.
In April 1944 James R. Orechia went to the Isle of Capri Rest Camp for approximately 10 days & Returned on 25 April 1944. James R. (Raymond) Orechia flew 57 "known" missions, 17 with Lil Butch's Dad. 10 with 2Lt Harold Ray Brellenthin, but about 25 with 1Lt Walsh. Many of the 25, included the 17 with 2Lt Jack Fitzgerald.
(Research and Written by family friend/ Neice, Patti Johnson, 2009)


text:
Over his last three games, Ike Davis has an OPS of 1.843 with one strikeout in ten plate appearances, along with a home run last night.
From May 23-26, Davis posted an OPS of 1.056 over four games, with one strikeout in ten plate appearances. He followed that with a .371 OPS over his next 11 games.
In four games from May 7-11, he posted an OPS of 1.161, with his two most recent home runs prior to last night. He followed with 10 games at a .216 OPS.
In four games from April 15-18, he posted an OPS of 1.157, with three home runs. He followed with eight games at a .294 OPS.
The point here isn't that Davis is doomed. If/when he comes out of his slump, it is going to look like all the other times he seemed to be doing so, then faltered, until he sustains it.
But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Ike Davis is battling a year of rust, a still-tricky medical condition that may or may not be Valley Fever, and the worst slump of his professional career. Last night's home run felt cathartic to watch; I can only imagine how it felt for Ike Davis to hit it. The poor man has been through entirely too much over the past year; no one could have anticipated all this for a 24-25 year old baseball player who seemed poised for stardom.
More evidence is needed that he can sustain what he's done over the last three games. But it has been an enjoyable start, and easily his best small stretch of the season.


text:
President Obama Honors Nation's Top Scientists and Innovators
Six APS Fellows Among National Medal of Science and Technology Awardees
By Ryan K. Morris/National Science & Technology Medals FoundationSidney Drell
Sylvester James Gates
John Goodenough
Art Rosenfeld
"I am proud to honor these inspiring American innovators," President Obama said. "They represent the ingenuity and imagination that has long made this Nation great—and they remind us of the enormous impact a few good ideas can have when these creative qualities are unleashed in an entrepreneurial environment."
The National Medal of Science was created by statute in 1959 and is administered for the White House by the National Science Foundation. Awarded annually, the medal recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to science and engineering. A committee of presidential appointees selects nominees on the basis of their extraordinary knowledge in and contributions to chemistry, engineering, computing, mathematics, or the biological, behavioral/social, and physical sciences.
The National Medal of Technology and Innovation was created by statute in 1980 and is administered for the White House by the U.S. Department of Commerce's Patent and Trademark Office. The award recognizes those who have made lasting contributions to America's competitiveness and quality of life and helped strengthen the nation's technological workforce. Nominees are selected by a distinguished independent committee representing the private and public sectors.
Recipients who are APS Fellows are listed below.
National Medal of Science
Sidney Drell, Stanford University, CA
Sylvester James Gates, University of Maryland, MD
John Goodenough, University of Texas at Austin, TX
National Medal of Technology and Innovation
Art Rosenfeld, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, CA
Rangaswamy Srinivasan, IBM Corporation, NY
James Wynne, IBM Corporation, NY
(Released by The White House on Dec. 21, 2012).
APS encourages the redistribution of the materials included in this newspaper provided that attribution to the source is noted and the materials are not truncated or changed.
APS Headquarters, College Park, MD
One Physics Ellipse,
College Park, MD 20740
Editor: Alan Chodos
Staff Writer: Michael Lucibella
Art Director / Special Publications Manager: Kerry G. Johnson
Design and Production: Nancy Bennett-Karasik
APS Washington, D.C. Office
529 14th St. NW,
Washington, DC 20045
Email: email@example.com
Phone: 202-662-8700
Fax: 202-662-8711
Director of Public Affairs: Michael Lubell
Associate Director of Public Affairs: Francis Slakey
Senior Government Relations Specialist: Jodi Lieberman
Government Relations Specialist: Tyler Glembo
Press Secretary: Tawanda W. Johnson
Office Manager & POPA Studies Administration Specialist: Jeanette Russo


text:
Undisciplined Clairton football team's miscues become worrisome
Clairton coach Tom Nola doesn't usually have cause to lose his temper after games.
Having the nation's longest winning streak certainly helps diffuse emotional reactions to the Bears' on-field lapses.
Still, there was no disputing Nola's anger when he addressed his team on the field after Trib Total Media Class A No. 1 Clairton (7-0, 7-0 Black Hills Conference) wore down No. 5 Bishop Canevin, 53-15, on Saturday at Dormont Stadium.
He publicly — and loudly — dressed down a team that had just won its 54th consecutive game, tearing his hat off at the end for emphasis.
"We didn't play all that well, and there were too many mistakes," Nola said. "The personal fouls, that's why I was angry."
Clairton was at its undisciplined worst against Bishop Canevin: The Bears took 17 penalties for 131 yards, including two personal fouls and one unsportsmanlike conduct. But it was an incident at the end of the game that set off Nola.
While the two teams shook hands, a Clairton player punched a Bishop Canevin player in the groin in retaliation for what he believed was a cheap shot earlier in the game. After most of the players left the field and headed to their respective locker rooms, Nola sought out Bishop Canevin coach Bob Jacoby and apologized for his player's actions.
"We'll try and practice it out, and I'll make them run for it," Nola said. "We tried talking to them about it, but all we can do is try to discipline them at practice."
It's not like this is the first time Clairton has committed its share of penalties. The Bears are notorious for presnap fouls and the occasional unsportsmanlike conduct.
Against Bishop Canevin (5-2, 5-2), Clairton was called for a defensive offsides penalty on the second play of the game, which helped the Crusaders launch a scoring drive to take a 6-0 lead 5:48 into the game. About to receive the second-half kickoff, the Bears were whistled for illegal formation.
But Clairton did what it always does: It overcame its shortcomings by taking advantage of its superior athleticism. The Bears shrugged off the illegal formation penalty when Vincent Moody returned the kickoff 85 yards for a touchdown — the second time he returned the second-half kickoff for a touchdown (Monessen) — while Tyler Boyd erased a plethora of other miscues by carrying 12 times for 171 yards and five touchdowns.
Clairton also made Bishop Canevin pay dearly for its only turnover, as Terrish Webb returned an interception 102 yards for a score.
"The first interception he throws all year and it goes 102 yards the other way," Jacoby said. "The kid jumped the route and played it well. But they wear you down with their speed, and we can't simulate it in practice."
Keith Barnes is a staff writer for Trib Total Media. He can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com or 412-664-9161 Ext. 1977.


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Eighteen year old weldor and shipfitter, Frank Dolan, was aboard his repair ship, USS Vestal (AR-4), at Pearl Harbor on the morning of December 7, 1941. Vestal was tied up to the battleship Arizona, waiting to begin repairs to that ship the next morning. At the moment of Japan's surprise attack at 7:55 AM, Frank was on the Vestal's main deck studying for his upcoming ratings exam. He watched in horror as enemy planes dropped torpedoes and bombs.* Two bombs hit the Vestal, causing significant damage. The catastrophic explosion of the Arizona alongside also blew overboard all the crew from the Vestal's deck. The ship's captain, Cassin Young, swam back to his ship, and with his remaining crew, steered it to the nearest beach, but not before rescuing the Arizona's few survivors. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions that day. Frank helped bring the few surviving, but badly burned Sailors and Marines across the wooden camel connecting the 2 ships. Smaller boats then transported them to the hospital.
After repairing their own badly damaged ship, Vestal's crews went to work repairing the other stricken warships at Pearl Harbor. Frank stayed with Vestal as it sailed to forward repair bases such as Tongatabu, Nouméa, and Espiritu Santo. Many of the ships repaired by Vestal had received battle damage from engagements in the great Naval battles of the Pacific. Frank was also temporarily assigned to the aircraft carrier, Enterprise, and performed vital repairs even while the ship was hotly engaged in the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal in Novemvmber 1942.
Frank Dolan served on the Vestal through the end of 1943, when he was transfered to another repair ship, U.S.S. Hector (AR-7). While on the Hector, he served at Navy repair facilities at Eniwetok, Ulithi, Leyte Gulf, and Saipan.
Entering the Navy as a "boot" seaman in Feb. 1941, Frank Dolan had worked his way up to Chief Metalsmith when he was discharged after the war in late 1946.
* He wrote of his Pearl Harbor experience in Pearl Harbor As I Remember (https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/44428398/Pearl%20Harbor%20As%20I%20Remember.pdf).


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Plenty of Fallout-related news popping up across the web. Let's get started.
If you're missing the weekly Penny Arcade Fallout comics, there's plenty of other comics filling the void. At Spookingtons, there's a new Fallout 3-themed comic from Jeremy "Norm" Scott (creator of the popular EGM comics "Hsu & Chan." I've got it posted above, but head here to see the full-sized comic.
The creators of the Oblivion comics Philip of Oblivion, which will soon celebrate its 99th comic, have begun a similar series based off Fallout 3 — appropriately titled Philip of Fallout.
Wrapping up the comic coverage, Ctrl-Alt-Delete has a Fallout 3 comic of their own.
In other news, the guys at Planet Fallout have some new features on their site. This week they unveiled their Interactive Capital Wasteland Map, as well as new game databases. Both are extremely useful, and contributions from the community are welcome.
Reviews are still making their way online — including the LA Times, Yahoo! Games, GameTactics, Games for Windows, and the Sydney Morning Herald.
Finally, at Game Design as Cultural Practice,


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Yorba Lindans cast more ballots in last month's general election than in any election in city history, but because more residents were registered to vote this year, the percentage of voters was smaller than in the presidential election four years ago.
Here are the numbers: 35,164 residents cast ballots out of 45,494 registered for a 77.3 per cent turnout, compared to the 81.6 percent turnout in 2008, when 35,092 ballots were cast out of 43,010 registered.
However, 34,822 residents voted for one of the six presidential tickets on the ballot in 2012, while 34,734 voted for one of the 10 tickets on the ballot in 2008, so 342 voting Yorba Lindans didn't mark a presidential choice this year compared to 358 four years ago
As expected, Mitt Romney won Yorba Linda with 23,762 votes, or 68.2 percent of the presidential vote, while Barack Obama tallied 10,350, or 29.7 percent. The four minor parties on the ballot split the remaining 710 presidential votes.
Minor party totals were 432 votes for the Libertarian ticket, 119 for the Green Party, 80 for the American Independent Party and 79 for the Peace and Freedom candidates.
Totals for the two county islands, Country Club and Fairlynn, not included in the above numbers, were 855 for Romney, 405 for Obama and 28 divided among the other parties. Turnout was 1,296 out of 1,682 registered, 77.1 percent (eight didn't vote for president).
Obama's 2012 total was less than the 11,710 he won in 2008, when he took 33.7 percent of the presidential vote. Romney's 2012 tally was more than John McCain's 22,328 in 2008 (64.3 percent). George Bush won 67.5 percent in 2000 and 71.1 percent in 2004.
Response to my Sept. 20 column asking readers to predict Yorba Linda's presidential vote, is worth noting, with all but one replying Obama would win fewer local votes in 2012 than in 2008. Larry Cope came closest to Romney's percentage, predicting 67.3.
An interesting down-ballot race this year was for one of seven trustee positions at the North Orange County Community College District, with 58,000 students at Fullerton and Cypress colleges and the School of Continuing Education.
Realignment of trustee boundaries split Yorba Linda into three of seven new areas. Area 7, with 42,868 Yorba Linda voters, featured a vigorous contest between incumbent Tony Ontiveros of Anaheim and Monika Koos of Brea, each endorsed by a past Yorba Linda mayor. Ontiveros won 26,633 to 21,098 (14,082 to 11,088 in Yorba Linda).
Two Yorba Linda residents, who formerly represented this entire city as trustees, now serve areas with only slivers of city territory. Mike Matsuda has 1,739 south-central voters in Area 5 and Jeff Brown 881 west-end voters in Area 6. Trustees must live in the areas that elect them.
Yorba Linda opposed the Prop. 30 tax increase 71 percent to 29 percent, but backed Prop. 32's political contribution rules 64 percent to 36 percent, at odds with results from state-wide voters.
Buena Park's Roger Yoh again will represent this city at the Orange County Water District, defeating Frank Alonzo 58.5 percent to 41.5 percent (56.7 to 43.3 in Yorba Linda).
Jim Drummond is a longtime Yorba Linda resident. He gives his opinion on local issues weekly. Send e-mail to firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Dallisgrass is one of the most troublesome weeds in the Southern U.S., and it is occasionally found farther north. It forms distinct clumps in mowed lawns and produces tall, unsightly seed stalks. Although hand-pulling and selective herbicides are not effective in controlling Dallisgrass, it can be killed.
Dallisgrass: a Perennial Problem Dallisgrass is a deep-rooted bunchgrass that spreads by both seed and underground rhizomes. It prefers warm, moist areas and begins growth in early spring, readily invading bermudagrass and other warm-season lawns. Although difficult to control, Dallisgrass is usually less of a problem in lawns mowed frequently at a low height.
Identifying Dallisgrass
Dallisgrass forms distinctive star-like clumps of 2- to 6-inch stems and coarse 4- to 10-inch-long leaves. The seed stalks grow from the top of the stems between May and October and have three to five fingerlike segments covered by fine, silken hairs. Dallisgrass grows most vigorously in warm summer weather, but remains green in winter.
Pulling Won't Get It All Hand-pulling Dallisgrass doesn't provide effective control, because some of the rhizomes will be left in the soil to grow back. Selective herbicides will not control Dallisgrass, but you can spot-treat actively growing weeds with Roundup® Ready-To-Use Weed & Grass Killer III. Because Roundup® Ready-To-Use Weed & Grass Killer III will also kill desirable lawn grasses that are contacted by the spray, wait three days and repair treated spots by reseeding or plugging as necessary.


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Change Rocks.
Let's talk about change! Beautiful, unique, interchangeable jewelry that makes a wonderful gift for all occasions. Match the color of the stone to your clothes and your mood. Makes a great conversation piece. Platinum plated with Austrian crystal, it comes in 12 fashionable colors. It's the hottest item on Madison Avenue - and all over the world! Check it out in the New York Post , Teen Magazine, FoxNews, CBSTV ,WPIX,and more!! They have rings, pendants and t-shirts too! Great for travel!


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UNISON members at County Hall, Taunton, staged a protest calling for "fair pay".
Belinda Burton, branch secretary of UNISON Somerset county branch said workers in the South-West are among the "hardest-pressed in the country" due to low pay and high costs of living.
They held a protest on Tuesday (April 1).
She added: "Local government workers in the county have faced four years of devastating cuts to jobs but also to the vital services they provide – and today our members are saying enough is enough.
"75% of the local government workforce in Somerset are women, who are increasingly undervalued and who are not prepared to sit back and let their families slide further into poverty.
"Rather than the race-to-the-bottom approach favoured by this Government what we desperately need is a commitment to implement a living wage."


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Cooking Channel is joining Food Network for our first annual cookie swap, 12 Days of Cookies. Each day, visit us here for a look at new holiday cookies, party-planning tips and top techniques for rolling, spooning, slicing, baking and decorating delicious sweet treats to give — or keep — from favorite chefs and Food People. Then visit FoodNetwork.com/12daysofcookies for great takes on holiday baking from Food Network chefs — cookies by the dozen to celebrate all season.
Jeffrey Saad has his hands in the cookie jar, and he's bringing out his love for exotic spices. It's no wonder his unique twist on the coffee shop favorite is bursting with flavor.
Jeffrey's Orange Clove Spiced Biscotti have all the crunch and texture you'd expect, plus candied almonds for a bit of chewiness to balance them out. The additional touch of citrus and clove mean his biscotti not only pair perfectly with coffee, cappuccino and dessert wine, but shine all on their own.
12 Days of Cookies:
- Make Jeffrey's Orange Clove Spiced Biscotti.
- See who's joining in: Jamie Oliver, Rachael Ray, Chuck Hughes and more.
- Food Network is swapping cookies, too.
- Catch Jeffrey on Cooking Channel.
- Share your Holiday cookie pix with us on Facebook.
What's dessert do you think pairs best with coffee?
Melanie Rehak, author of Eating for Beginners, has been baking cookies since she was old enough to climb onto the kitchen stool. She's partial to Zimtsterne—cinnamon stars—for the holidays, but loves most cookies all year long.


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Science Blueprint PrefaceCalifornia Standards Tests Science Blueprint Preface.
The following blueprints are for the California Standards Tests (CSTs) in science. The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB) requires states to administer science tests in grade spans 3-5, 6-9, and 10-12. Therefore, all students in grades five, eight, and ten take a science test. CSTs in Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Physics, and Integrated/Coordinated Science 1, 2, 3, and 4 are end-of-course tests taken by students in grades nine through eleven. The CSTs in science consist of 60 multiple-choice questions with an additional six field-test questions. It is also important to note:
- Except for the Investigation and Experimentation standards, the "# of Items" column shows the numbers of questions testing each standard as well as the total number of questions for each strand. The "%" column shows the percentage of questions assessing each strand.
- A distinction is made between the descriptive statement that precedes each set of standards and the standards that are assessed.
- For biology, chemistry, earth science, physics, and integrated/coordinated science 1, 2, 3, and 4, standards that all students should have the opportunity to learn, identified with an asterisk (*), are not tested, though they are important to the comprehension of the strand.
- In some grades or courses there are standards that, while important, are not assessable in a multiple-choice format. These standards have been identified with the notation NA*. Though these standards are not assessed, they are important to the comprehension of the strand.
Questions: California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress Office | email@example.com | 916-445-8765
Last Reviewed: Friday, December 16, 2016
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Ambassador Wittig signs the Nagoya Protocol
"The German ambassador to the United Nations, Dr. Peter Wittig, signed the "Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Ressources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of benefits arising from their Utilization" to the Convention on Biological Diversity on 23 June in New York.
The Nagoya Protocol is a new international treaty adopted under the auspices of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in Nagoya, Japan on October 29, 2010. Its objective is the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of genetic ressources, thereby contributing to the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity and to implementing the three objectives of the CBD (conservation of biodiversity, sustainable use of components of biodiversity, fair and equitable sharing of benefits).
The Protocol will enter into force when 50 countries have ratfied it. Germany, together with 11 other EU Member States has signed the Protocol on 23 June 2011, bringing the overall number of signatories to 36."
For more information see: www.cbd.int


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After a move that forced me to leave my smoker behind with some friends, I've finally purchased a new Chargriller Smokin' Pro and SFB and I'm back in action!
The maiden voyage was some spare ribs, but due to not having a local wood source yet, I was stuck using lump charcoal (which actually did a great job) and big mesquite chunks. Believe I've found a wood source though.
It's nearly a duplicate of my old one, but it came with a cooling rack ( ) and the shelves were all womper-jawed (easy fix though).
Quick question: I brought my warming plate (that goes over the SFB) with me, but I seem to have left the hardware. What kind of bolts and screws should I use to fasten it to the SFB? I usually cook with oak logs so it gets pretty toasty.


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by T.W. Budig
ECM Capitol reporter
Dr. Michael Flynn, a dentist for 34-years, smiled at the idea that anxiety is holding down dental reimbursement rates.
"Maybe that is a factor," Flynn, president of the Minnesota Dental Association , said in response to a question about bias against those with the hooked probes and high-pitched drills.
"But it's not an excuse for not doing the right thing," he said.
Dental Association officials are active at the State Capitol this session, arguing they've been unfairly forced to subsidize dental treatment for patients on state health care programs.
"I'm paid based on a 1989 fee scale," Flynn said. "That was the year my daughter was born. Now she works in a hospital in the metro area."
In a March report, the Office of the Legislative Auditor noted the state's fee-for-service base rates for most dental procedures were based on 1989 dental rates. These rates rank in the lower one-third of all states, and are lower today than a decade ago.
"I didn't go into dentistry to get rich," Dr. Susan Block, a dentist for nearly 30 years, said.
But you have to stay in business, said Block, who practices dentistry in Prior Lake.
The state supplements its fee-for-service rates with other payments, the auditor notes, such as a "critical access" payments.
But managed care organizations (MCOs) are not required to make similar payments, the report notes.
And it's difficult to determine whether the additional payments supplant rates negotiated between dentists and MCO.
On average, dental payments by MCOs exceed the state's fee-for-service rates, but the differences were sometime small, the auditors note.
In its findings, the auditor's report concludes that Medical Assistance dental payments are poorly coordinated, inconsistent, and recommends that the reimbursement rates be increased.
Rates were given a three percent across-the-board increase in 2000, but were cut three percent by the Legislature in 2011.
Low-income people, especially those with special needs or those living in Greater Minnesota, face challenges in finding dental care, the report notes.
Block agrees.
"We have a son with special needs. And you discover a whole world when it comes to special needs that you're not aware of," she said.
When special needs parents find a dentist for their child, they're thrilled.
"It's a challenge to take care of these people, but you do it out of the heart," Block said.
"And every time I sit down and do fillings, it's 30 cents on the dollar," she said.
Flynn, whose dental practice is in Lewiston, tells of a patient from Calendonia being driven at state expensive for treatment in Savage because of lack of local dental care.
Because of a lack of access, people suffering from tooth aches or other dental ailments end up in hospital emergency rooms, the association maintains.
From 2007 to 2010, dental-related emergency room visits cost $148 million, according to the association.
Cost-avoidance should be part of the discussion on formulating reimbursement rates, Flynn said.
Low reimbursement rates are causing dentists to refuse MA cases, or limit the number, he said.
The auditor's report indicates that's exactly the case.
Almost a quarter of dentists responding to a survey indicated they had stopped serving MA patients after 2010.
Some reimbursement relief may be on the horizon.
House Health and Human Services Finance Committee Chairman Thomas Huntley, DFL-Duluth, said dentists have a legitimate complaint.
"The rates are way too low," he said.
MA patients can be difficult patients, Huntley said,
Many dentist work alone, and MA patients are more apt than other patients to miss an appointment, he said.
"That's almost a double loss (for dentists)," Huntley said.
Like Flynn and Block, Huntley stresses the importance of dental care.
He cites the testimony of a Hennepin County Medical Center official concerning a diabetic who suffered from tooth infections.
"They had to remove half of his face and half of his chest," Huntley said.
It cost more than $1 million.
"If he had had his teeth cleaned, it would have been taken care of," Huntley said.
The Dayton Administration is proposing a five percent increase to dental reimbursement rates, Human Services Department Assistant Commissioner Scott Leitz said.
Current rates reflect the struggles of budgeting during recessionary times, he said.
Both the House and Senate in their human service finance bills are also looking at five percent dental reimbursement rate increases.
Dental Association official say the proposed increase is a step in the right direction but insufficient.
Huntley, for one, doesn't believe dentists get the same level of respect afforded physicians.
"Except with me," Huntley said.
Rep. Jim Abeler, R-Anoka, doesn't see any bias working against dentists but rather pure mathematics.
That is, there's a lot of competition for a limited pool of dollars.
"They're (dentists) in good company," said Abeler, the lead Republican on the House Health and Human Services Finance Committee.
Reimbursement rates for many health care providers are low.
"It's easier to cut reimbursement rates than to cut people from programs," Abeler said.
But Flynn and Block argue lawmakers need to put their money where their mouths are.
"Whether you like it or not, the mouth is part of the body," Block said.
"And it needs to be taken care of," she said.
Minnesota's Medicaid (MA) program provided health and dental services to 910,000 people in 2011.
Dental services represent just three percent of program expenditures, according to the auditor.
The Minnesota Dental Association represents more than 3,000 Minnesota-licensed dentists and dental students.
Tim Budig can be reached at [email protected]


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WASHINGTON -- Walmart joined First Lady Michelle Obama in Washington today to unveil a comprehensive effort to provide its customers with healthier and more affordable food choices.
The program will involve five key elements:
- Reformulating thousands of everyday packaged food items by 2015 by reducing sodium 25% and added sugars 10%, and by removing all remaining industrially produced trans fats. The company will work with suppliers to improve the nutritional quality of national food brands and its Great Value private brand in key product categories to complete the reformulations;
- Making healthier choices more affordable, saving customers approximately $1 billion per year on fresh fruits and vegetables through a variety of sourcing, pricing and transportation and logistics initiatives that will drive unnecessary costs out of the supply chain. Walmart will also dramatically reduce or eliminate the price premium on key "better-for-you" items, such as reduced sodium, sugar or fat products;
- Developing strong criteria for a simple front-of-package seal that will help consumers instantly identify truly healthier food options such as whole grain cereal, whole wheat pasta or unsweetened canned fruit;
- Providing solutions to address food deserts by building stores in underserved communities that are in need of fresh and affordable groceries; and
- Increasing charitable support for nutrition programs that help educate consumers about healthier food solutions and choices.
"No family should have to choose between food that is healthier for them and food they can afford," said Bill Simon, president and CEO of Walmart U.S. "With more than 140 million customer visits each week, Walmart is uniquely positioned to make a difference by making food healthier and more affordable to everyone. We are committed to working with suppliers, government and non-governmental organizations to provide solutions that help Americans eat healthier and live a better life."
Walmart also launched a website dedicated to its healthier food initiative.


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You won't be able to dismiss this by usual means (escape or click button), but you can close it programatically based on user choices or actions.
"We used a colorful print that had grey background hues, which complemented the text box portion of this card well. The designer helped us center our image and optimize it for printing. We are very happy with our purchase and can't wait to send these out! As others have said, keep in mind that these post cards are on the small side, but we knew that going in and thus got what we expected."
"The magnets turned out even better than I expected. All the pictures looked really good with the chevron background and I received so many compliments."
"My fiancée actually picked this design for our save the dates! I wasn't sold on it at first, but it was his favorite, and after we personalized it and made it look exactly how we wanted it to, I started to love it. Once they arrived in the mail, I was so impressed with the quality and how cute they turned out! I'm definitely glad we chose this design, and that we were able to do some things to make it our own. We will absolutely be returning to personalize and purchase formal invitations!"
"I had the designer mock up a color that was not offered for preview. The proof arrived lightning fast. Then the actual magnets arrived four days ahead of schedule! We will be ordering invitations from WPD as well."
"I would recommend this site to anyone! Their site was easy to navigate and find the perfect Save the Date for us and their costumer service was extremely helpful in creating a unique product."


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FREE DELIVERY for local online orders.*
As Always
FREE Delivery*
for local online orders.
* Free local delivery is available for local online orders only. For orders being sent outside of our local delivery zone, a delivery fee based on the recipient's address will be calculated during checkout.×
We take pride in our work, and stand behind every arrangement we deliver. If you are not completely satisfied with your order, please contact us so that we can make it right.
We do not charge service fees! This means that by ordering your arrangement directly from us, you will automatically save money - no coupon codes or special deals required!
All arrangements purchased from us are professionally designed and hand-delivered. No wilted, sad, flowers in a box here! Your bouquet will be exquisitely arranged and ready to be enjoyed.
Our customers are our top priority! When you buy from us, you know that you're working directly with a real, local florist. We will personally ensure that you're happy with your arrangement!
Jenny's Floral's Assurance
at least $14.95
No Service fees
Bring some sweetness into someone's life - literally - with our mouth-watering Fruit Basket! Packed to the brim with a delectable selection of apples, bananas, pears, oranges, and more, along with other assorted snacks, it's a bona fide cornucopia of naturally delicious fruits, all bundled into one convenient basket. A must for anyone who loves a hearty, healthy snack!
Sixteen pieces of assorted fruit and three additional snacks are carefully arranged in a basket.
Product ID UFN1501
Approximately 11" W x 12" H
Amanda H.
Jenny and her business were amazing from the start! We met with her to go over colors and greenery for our wedding and she was so understanding of our budget and easy to work with. The day of our wedding we had our breath taken away! The arrangements, bouquets and boutinners were gorgeous! Jenny was also very helpful when setting up and helped my mother drape/pin the fabric on our arch. It looked beautiful. Thank you Jenny you're the best!
Cindy S.
Thanks to Jenny and her wonderful staff for making all the décor and flowers come together for my BEST DAY EVER!! June 26, 2016. Our wedding was a destination event and Jenny and her staff handled all the tuxedo arrangements, décor and flowers! Everything was handled in just a few emails. I never got the chance to meet Jenny in person, but I do look forward to it. Thanks Jenny for delivering the flowers to the house, taking care of setting up all the décor and making sure our tuxedos were all perfect! Great Job and super Bride Friendly!!
Source: Facebook


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The Cape Saga Pt. II: The Coolest Thing Ever Done With Chiffon…EVER*
The readers have spoken…
and I have responded! Fasten your seat belts folks, it's time for another installment of the juicy, the sexy, the riveting, the awe-inspiring, soon-to-be-bestseller-thanks-in-large-part-to-teenage-girls-everywhere…The Twilight Cape Saga! I'm sure you've all been waiting as eagerly as my new pal, Lil' Humphrey. (more on him in a later post) so let me not keep you any longer.
Onward to the gut-wrenching epic tale of woman vs fabric.
Cutting the chiffon was just the beginning. I knew I was in for a ride-and what a wild ride it was! Let's take a gander at some of the highlights:
1. Time for everyone's favorite technique. Yes, that's right: sewing to paper!
Now, some of you might be wondering, "is this really necessary? " and to that I say, no. That's right, you don't have to do it at all….if you're not worried about running the serious risk of having your fabric:
-sucked into a vast gaping vortex of death…kind of like this:
Observe, this oh-so-haunting photo with it's poor focus artistic blur, and the eerie diffused ghost-like glow emanating from the dark depths of th- okay, you get it. This is what you don't want. Jeeze, the things I do to make a point. Are we clear? Paper is your friend.
2. To quote the famed line from Hamlet, "to pearl or not to pearl…" Okay, that might've been slightly altered from the original and… not as profound but, work with me. I do think it can be a nice finish on things but I've just never thought of a pearl finish as, uh, "sportswear-y". Know what I mean? Anyway, I figured I'd try it out and see if my mind changed.
My cape has two layers of chiffon so I tried to baby hem one (turn it up the tiniest bit to stitch), which looked amazing until….it didn't. And then pearl the other. Then genius struck me. Dare I marry the two?!?!?! Muah, ha, ha! To my knowledge this is a sportswear first (I'm not that knowledgeable). What I've settled on doing is actually turning up up my pearled hem and stitching it that way. Take that, demon textile! And more, for I could not simply be satisfied with taming the mighty beast-oh no. I did not claim a true victory until I had beat, beat, beat it into a bloody submission. And so it was, the wheels of my ingenious mind kept turning and turning until at long last….Eureka!!
3. The original design of my cape had a front panel that was meant to be a rib. Alas:
-I couldn't find what I needed ready-made and affordable ($59.99 a yard for a rib knit? Surely, you jest?), and,
-though I had planned on doing a lot of my own knitting (GASP!), I've recently moved but my machine-knitting tools didn't come with. Also,
-It would take me FOR-EV-ER to do it by hand. Man, it's a good thing I don't even know how!
-Crochet, on the other hand, I can do; but where to find matching…. ::::eyes pile of fabric and light bulb goes on:::…..yarn….????
The fabric never saw me coming….
Prepare to witness a momentous occasion folks. At least it was for me anyway. It's something I've only ever dreamed of doing, and here was my opportunity. Follow along and prepare to be amazed.
*Alternate titles for this post: "Say my Name, Chiffon. Say it!!!!," and "How I Kicked Chiffon's A- and Made it my B-" …just something to think about…
Now sing it with me guys, "follow the yellow silk road…"
Category: Sportswear, Yissel
Comments (3)
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wow Yissel…. that looks amazing! good job!
Awww, Thank you!!!! =-D
I think L'il Humphrey would look quite smart in a chiffon cape. Or perhaps a Shakespeare-style chiffon ruff. He probably wants one, and is just too shy to ask you.


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Women with
polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) do not
ovulate regularly and often have difficulty becoming
pregnant. Although the medicine clomiphene (such as Clomid) is commonly used to
stimulate ovulation, it doesn't work for some women who have PCOS. This is because
PCOS ovulation problems are linked to an imbalance of multiple body systems.
Often other treatment measures can restore balance to the body's metabolism and
hormone system, making ovulation medicine unnecessary (or more effective if it
is used).
Laparoscopic ovarian surgery such as ovarian drilling
(partial destruction of an ovary, which can trigger ovulation) or in vitro
fertilization (IVF) are sometimes used for women with PCOS who have tried
weight loss and fertility medicine, but still are not ovulating.1
For more information, see the topic Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
CitationsAmerican College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
(2002, reaffirmed 2008). Management of infertility caused by ovulatory
dysfunction. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 34. Obstetrics and Gynecology, 99(2): 347–358.
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uSTADIUM's NFL Draft Event Sponsored By Samuel Adams
uSTADIUM Events
Thursday, April 25, 2013 at 7:00 PM - Friday, April 26, 2013 at 12:00 AM (EDT)
Who's Going
San Francisco, California
London, United Kingdom
Florence, Italy
Event Details
The uSTADIUM team would like to welcome you to our uSTADIUM NFL Draft Kickoff, sponsored by Samuel Adams.
Join us in the heart of NYC at the intimate Stout Lounge for a fantastic-filled evening as the 2013 NFL Draft picks are announced. Why watch the broadcast at home when we're providing a 3-hour premium open bar, an array of hors d'oeuvres (more delicious than your local tailgate), and 12 TVs to view all the action?
As if that wasn't enough, you'll be partying with some very special guests – think professional NFL athletes. NY Jets DL Muhammad Wilkerson and Quinton Coples, starting LB Demario Davis, NY Giants starting CB Prince Amukamara and former Jets OL Damien Woody and CB Donald Strickland will all be there to party with you! Don't miss the opportunity to kickoff the 2013 football season in style. Fans, athletes, and friends, doors open at 7pm.
Co-sponsored by Santonio Holmes' III & Long Foundation for Sickle-Cell Anemia, your ticket will grant you exclusive access to awesome giveaways, star athletes, and the opportunity to help create the next great sports community!
All donations and proceeds will aid uSTADIUM in creating the first sports network designed by fans, created by fans, and devoted entirely to fans. Want to learn more? Be privy to the next greatest thing as we sneak-peak our mobile app and debut uSTADIUM Events.
Help uSTADIUM give the microphone back to fans and support a great cause while having fun!
All sales are final.
Tickets are limited.
Don't be left behind!
When & Where
Stout NYC
133 W 33rd St
New York,
Thursday, April 25, 2013 at 7:00 PM - Friday, April 26, 2013 at 12:00 AM (EDT)
Add to my calendar
uSTADIUM Events
uSTADIUM Events is all about bringing together fans for awesome get-togethers of all types. We link with various celebrities, brands, and organizations to put together a memorable time. Join us for our next event and If you don't have a good time, email firstname.lastname@example.com and we will fully refund you!


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About the Book
All photos taken by Jim Felder. They were all taken during the 2007 Journey to Bethlehem. Jim made every attempt to make sure he captured every aspect of the "Journey" possible. "I know I was bound to miss someone", said Jim. He shot over 500 photos during the 4 day event. Jim also designed the logo for all of the printed promotional material that was handed out to various people and businesses.
Families are treated to the Ultimate Christmas Reality Experience.
They become part of the true story of Christmas as they travel the road to Bethlehem. An OUTDOOR journey through a wooded area on the Forest Hill Christian Church property. Nearly 300 people in costume as they interact with Wise Men from the East, shepherds tending their sheep, Old Testament prophets, marketplace vendors, travelers, and even roman Soldiers. Children especially enjoy the LIVE ANIMALS – including camels, donkeys, llamas, horses, sheep, and chickens. They encounter the Christ Child in a way that impact their lives for years to come!
The Journey to Bethlehem is absolutely FREE OF CHARGE! This is Forest Hill's gift to the community! The Journey ends as you enter the Winter Wonderland and warm up with complimentary refreshments. In 2007 there was an attendance of over 5,200 people and it grows every year.
"This is an experience your family will never forget!"
Features & Details
- Category Fine Art Photography
Standard Landscape, 10×8 in, 25×20 cm
40 Pages
- Publish Date Jan 14, 2008
- Tags jim felder, forest hill, journey to bethlehem, bethlehem, christmas, church, jesus, christ, manger
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- Unisex boots (listed in men's sizes)
- Chore Series
- Neoprene upper with stretch-fit topline binding
- Rubber foot and ankle overlay
- Mid-calf height
- 5mm neoprene bootie with 4-way stretch nylon
- 100% waterproof
- Lightweight and flexible
- Steel shank for additional arch support
- Quick-clean rubber overlay
- Triple reinforced toe
- Quadruple reinforced heel area
- Durable, lightweight rubber outsole
- Wide-cut heel base for stability
- Comfort range of sub-freezing conditions to 85 degrees
From their bestselling Chore Series, these Chore All-Condition boots a built to handle the toughest jobs while provideing dry, comfortable condtions for your feet.Offering all the standard MUCK BOOT features as well as many others,these boots are great for all-around work and chores. The stretch-fit topline snugs the calf to the warmth in and the cold out and the seamless rubber overlay helps to make these boots easy to clean. The stretch-fit topline binding snugs the leg to keep warmth in and cold out. A triple reinforced toe, quadruple reinforced heel area, and durable, lightweight rubber outsoles make these the only all-condition chore boots that you'll ever need or want again. These boots will keep your feet warm in colder conditions, with a comfort range of sub freezing conditions to 85 degrees.
Style(s): CHM-000A
Every boot in the line is expected to deliver the same 100% waterproof quality and comfort that inspired the original footwear. In just a few years, the line has grown to nearly 40 styles of rubber and leather footwear, all designed to tackle tough conditions in work, agriculture, lawn and garden, outdoor sporting, equine and pet care markets.
Today, the MUCK BOOT™ brand defines a standard of comfort and quality that goes beyond the expectations of customers around the country. Quickly establishing a strong and loyal customer base, the brand has become one of the fastest growing lines in the waterproof footwear market.


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Juan G. Robbins was born on a rancho before California was a state, participated from California for the Union in the Civil War, left California to mine in Idaho, his life mirroring what took place for many native sons who were in California before statehood, the gold rush and all that took place during that period. His is a fascinating history, to the degree that we have put it together!
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 12/2/2013 (1650 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
WASHINGTON -- U.S. President Barack Obama implored lawmakers and the American public alike to get behind his vision for the nation's future on Tuesday in his fourth state of the union address, emphasizing the progress his administration has made on the economy but urging the country to stay the course.
"Together, we have cleared away the rubble of crisis, and can say with renewed confidence that the state of our union is stronger," he told a joint session of Congress replete with the pomp and circumstance that is characteristic of the annual state of the union.
But he acknowledged millions of Americans still cannot find work, adding wages and incomes have "barely budged" despite soaring corporate profits.
"It is our generation's task, then, to reignite the true engine of America's economic growth -- a rising, thriving middle class."
Obama's speech focused primarily on the economy and his ongoing efforts to ensure the country's economic recovery isn't a fleeting one. But he also announced he's withdrawing more than half of the remaining American troops in Afghanistan over the next year.
"Over the next year, another 34,000 American troops will come home from Afghanistan," he said. "This drawdown will continue. And by the end of next year, our war in Afghanistan will be over."
He added the nature of America's commitment in Afghanistan would change in the years to come.
"We are negotiating an agreement with the Afghan government that focuses on two missions: training and equipping Afghan forces so that the country does not again slip into chaos, and counter-terrorism efforts that allow us to pursue the remnants of al-Qaida and their affiliates," he said.
The Afghanistan announcement puts the White House on track to formally end the 12-year-old conflict by the end of 2014.
Canada withdrew its own combat troops in 2011, though an undisclosed number of Canadian soldiers are still in the country until 2014, helping to train and mentor the Afghan National Army.
The Pentagon has told the White House it wants a small American military presence to remain as well.
Obama's latest state of the union was essentially a followup to the sweeping liberal agenda put forth by the president during his inaugural address three weeks ago.
But this speech put Obama's proposals on the economy and job creation in sharper focus.
He called for more spending on the country's crumbling infrastructure, insisting his proposals won't add to the nation's staggering $16 trillion debt.
"Nothing I'm proposing tonight should increase our deficit by a single dime," he said. "It's not a bigger government we need, but a smarter government that sets priorities and invests in broad-based growth."
The president addressed Congress just as a so-called sequestration -- a massive, mandated package of sweeping spending cuts to a host of federal agencies and departments -- is set to kick in on March 1. Some economists are warning a sequestration could push the U.S. into another recession.
Those in the Canadian energy industry were watching closely on Tuesday night to see whether Obama provided more details about his proposals to combat climate change in the wake of his inaugural address, when he pledged action.
He reiterated that pledge on Tuesday.
"For the sake of our children and our future, we must do more to combat climate change," he said as legislators stood and applauded -- as they traditionally do dozens of times during the state of the union.
There was no mention specifically of TransCanada's Keystone XL pipeline.
The U.S. State Department will make a decision on Keystone's latest permit application in the months to come because it crosses an international border.
-- The Canadian Press


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Congratulations to the Hilton family and Drew Nieporent, owner and founder of Myriad Restaurant Group—which operates Tribeca Grill, Nobu New York City, Nobu Fifty Seven, Nobu London, Nobu Next Door, Corton, Centrico and Crush Wine & Spirits—for being honored with the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration's Third Annual Icon of the Industry Award and the Cornell Hospitality Innovator Award, respectively. Both awards were presented during a dinner held in each of the recipient's honor on June 7, 2011 at the legendary Waldorf=Astoria Hotel in New York.
For nearly a century, few families have found themselves donning the headlines of both business and consumer publications as the Hilton family. Within the hospitality business, Hilton Worldwide continues to be one of the world's most powerful lodging companies encompassing over 3,600 hotels, with some 600,000 rooms in 82 countries. The company owns, manages or franchises a portfolio of brands, including Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels, Doubletree, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hampton Inn, Hampton Inn & Suites, Hilton Garden Inn, Hilton Grand Vacations Company, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and The Waldorf-Astoria collection.
Members of the Hilton family, as well as the iconic Hilton brand, continue to be featured players outside of the hotel industry establishing a presence in American entertainment and pop culture. Conrad Hilton is even featured as a major character in the third season of "Mad Men" as lead character Don Draper creates a series of ad campaigns for Hilton Hotels.
At the rotating wheel space station in Stanley Kubrick's film "2001: A Space Odyssey," visitors can stay at a Hilton hotel. Hilton's logo appears prominently in the space station's lounge.
Gaining visibility
And in the 2009 film "Up in the Air," the popular Hilton Honors guest loyalty program was featured as means of product placement in which various characters present their branded Hilton Honors membership cards to check into Hilton hotels throughout the film.
Sure, over the years certain Hilton family members have had their fair share of less than flattering headlines. However, if reporters were to write stories about the many charitable and philanthropic acts that the family has been involved with during the same time period, it would be safe to say there would be just as many positive headlines. As a matter of fact, since its inception, the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation alone has given away nearly a billion dollars to non-profit organizations working to improve the lives of disadvantaged and vulnerable people throughout the world.
Simultaneously, another industry giant will be honored on June 7th in New York City. Wyndham Hotel Group (WHG) president & CEO Eric Danziger will be recognized by the New York Hospitality Division of the UJA Federation at a cocktail reception being held at the Marriott Marquis. During Danziger's two-plus year tenure at the helm, WHG has realized significant worldwide growth across its multiple line-up of brands.
The UJA Federation and Cornell University School of Hotel Administration couldn't have selected more worthy recipients for these prestigious awards. I am looking forward to being in New York City in June to watch Mssrs Danziger and Nieporent, along with the Hilton family, receive their well-earned awards.


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After a quick shuttle ride on a super-sized golf cart, I was entering the Barrett-Jackson Classic Car Auction on my way to the Catwalk-for-a-Cause 3D fashion show, featuring ETCETERA fashions.
Walking along the pavement listening to the quick announcements of what sounded like a heated auction for one of many impressive cars, I made my way to the Lifestyle Pavilion and left the constant sound of numbers for the constant beat of a DJ playing top-10 dance songs.
A projection on the far wall showed different clothing designers and events as different spot lights made motions through the crowd.
Multiple vendors lined the walls, each with a unique booath full of purses, jewelry, furniture, food and more. All of these vendors were the focuses of the tent, until the fashion show started. A 3D fashion show was something I had never heard of, so I was excited to see how it would turn out.
After putting on the 3D glasses, an entertaining introduction flew across the projection screen with a glass-shattering effect. Soon after, a 3D video of a runway model walking toward the audience came into view. As the video of the model past the screen, the real model came from behind the curtain and began her walk down the runway.
Despite the timing of the video being a little off, the idea of a 3D fashion show was amusing and also included a dance sequence, where real dancers performed a routine while the same dancers were seen on the projection above them in 3D.
The music kept playing throughout the event, thanks to DJ Exxxclusive, and the energy was kept high. The crowd cheered as different models made their way down the runway, making the Lifestyle tent a successful break from the standard Barrett Jackson experience.
Check out these photos from the Catwalk-for-a-Cause 3D fashion show at the Barrett-Jackson Lifestyle Pavilion:
[slickr-flickr tag="Barrett-Jackson" items="20″ type="sets" id="68507495@N04″]


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May proved to be another record month for U.S. dairy exports.
The U.S. Dairy Export Council showed in its monthly "Global Dairy Market Outlook" that dairy exports totaled $629 million in May, up 26 percent from last year and he second straight month of record export shipments.
The aggregated export volume of dry ingredients, cheese and butterfat was 179,684 tons, which is 3 percent higher than April on a daily-average basis and 13 percent above last year's levels.
On a total-solids basis, exports made up nearly 17 percent of U.S. milk production in May – the most ever.
The U.S. was the only top five exporter to see milk production go up in May, albeit fractionally. Decreases were seen in the other top exporters, including New Zealand (down 26 percent), Australia (down 8 percent), Argentina (down 5 percent) and the European Union (down 2 percent).
However, the report added that global milk production is "starting to track close to year-ago levels in the major export regions after lagging since mid-2012."


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Wilkinson (or Wilkison) Beaty was the ward or adopted son of Jeremiah Beaty (1775-1844). He was also the husband of Sarah M. Unknown. With her, he had five children: Robert; Rebecca; Martha; Sarah; and Samantha.
Sarah is Wilkinson's spouse
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Side effects made it not worthwhile It did try up the runny nose and reduce the sneezing, but dry eyes, headache, and generally "dopey" feeling made it not worth it. I tried it off and on for one allergy season, and decided to try something else the next year.
Never Worked for Me I can remember being given Allerest as an adolescent, and still rubbing my eyes, trying to scratch the back of my throat with my tongue, and not being able to breathe through my nose. It did nothing for me.


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Box Program Small Wristlet
You have selected Box Program Small Wristlet from zappos. The current price at zappos is $59. We have also found {{items.length}} varieties of the bag ranging from low ${{low}} to high ${{high}} and average at ${{average}}. You can buy the one from zappos by clicking the buy button below or you could also check out the other buying options for a better deal from the various stores.


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MENTION the name Barry Knight to a Wanderers fan and it will almost certainly be met with a scowl but most likely something stronger.
The former Kent official made himself a lifelong enemy of the town of Bolton for his performance in the decisive leg of the 2000 play-off semi-final against Ipswich Town at Portman Road. Knight sent off Mike Whitlow and Robbie Elliott that night, and awarded three penalties to Ipswich as they won the game 5-3 to reach the final.
Sam Allardyce and Gudni Bergsson were later censured by the Football Association for their comments after the game and Knight never again officiated at a game involving Wanderers.
Speaking to FourFourTwo magazine several years later, Allardyce had still not forgiven Knight for his abysmal display that night.
"Bordering on criminal, that was," he said. "Do I still hold a grudge? Oh yes, you never forget the worst refereeing performance in the history of football. "Two red cards, three penalties and 10 booked, yet Ipswich didn't have one booking.
"When I was hauled in front of a tribunal for what I'd said on TV, I presented an edited video for my defence and you could see how embarrassed the tribunal was by his performance. Barry Knight lost it, completely lost it."


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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 8/5/2014 (1197 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
Lars von Trier, cinema's greatest provocateur, dips his toe in porn with Nymphomaniac: Vol. I. Dull, carnal, and explicitly so in both regards, it's a slow-moving slog through one crushed soul as she relates the empty, passionless pursuits of her youth.
We meet Joe (Charlotte Gainsbourg) as the kindly Seligman (Stellan Skarsgard) does, battered and bloodied in an alley. As he takes her in, she confesses, "I'm just a bad human being."
She proceeds to relate her sexual history, from childhood games of discovery and gym class rope-climbing "sensations" to the perfunctory way she proposes to lose her virginity to a motor-scooter buff played by Shia LaBeouf. There are carnal contests with a pal on trains, where they see how many men, young and old, they can seduce and service in the restrooms, to tedious monologues about the logistics on managing eight to 10 sex sessions a day while supposedly supporting herself with a real job and juggling the occasional real boyfriend.
Seligman, an avid fly fisherman and Bach enthusiast, interrupts her from time to time, comparing her gamesmanship to fly fishing tactics, "reading the river" as she hunts her prey, and her amorality to that moment in music called "The Devil's Interval."
Joe confesses that she "used and hurt others for my own satisfaction," but Seligman refuses to judge. He just likes hearing dirty stories from a beautiful (but battered) woman.
The story is broken into chapters, a curse of Von Trier's dullest films -- "Chapter 4: Delirium" and the like. The framework plays like the "Let me tell you a dirty story" of the earliest bawdy novels, like Tom Jones or Tristram Shandy, but rendered humourless and bland thanks to Gainsbourg's flat delivery and the poker-faced performance of Stacy Martin as the young Joe. The entire enterprise has a whiff of homage to the Golden Age of Arty Porn, the 1970s, when pretentious life narrations interrupted the assorted exotic sexual encounters of The Story of O or Emmanuelle.
When the older Joe asks, plaintively, "Am I boring you?" we smile in agreement, even as Seligman and von Trier (a long way from Breaking the Waves) are urging her on and on.
The one explosion in the film is its best scene. A shattered, embittered wife (Uma Thurman) shows up at Joe's apartment where Joe has finally talked a lover into leaving that wife. In half a dozen searing moments, she weeps her way into rage as she tells her small sons to remember this confrontation with the father whose lives he and Joe have destroyed: "It'll stand you in good stead when you're in therapy."
But even that line reads as if it should be read, not performed aloud.
The sex scenes, and LaBeouf's character turns up several times over the course of Joe's narrative, leave little doubt at their authenticity. But the object lesson in this -- fornication without feeling is lust without love -- merits a "Well, duh" in every world but von Trier's.
I'd call Nymphomaniac his first horror film, the scariest part being the Vol. I in the title.
--McClatchy-Tribune News Service


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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 4/4/2013 (1602 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
WASHINGTON — Despite repeated Syrian government claims that opposition forces are predominantly "foreign terrorists," a new comprehensive report by the International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation finally puts numbers to the nagging question of just how many foreign fighters exist in Syria. The short answer: Not many. The long answer: Not many, but it depends on how generous you want to be.
The center's most liberal estimate for the total number of foreign fighters over the course of the two-year conflict is 5,500, while the most conservative estimate for the current size of rebel forces is 60,000. If you crunch the numbers, that means foreigners make up less than 10 per cent of the total rebellion and "the actual figure is likely to be lower," says the group, which is a partnership of King's College London, the University of Pennsylvania, Interdisciplinary Center Herzliya, the Jordan Institute of Diplomacy, and Georgetown University. The exact portions would be:
Syrians, 90.8 per cent; foreigners, 9.2 per cent
According to the report's methodology, the "estimate is based on more than 450 sources in the Western and Arab media as well as the martyrdom notices that have been posted in jihadist online forums. As with previous conflicts, the picture is far from complete and will probably remain so for years to come. There is no "true census of foreign fighters, and publicly available sources are inevitably incomplete."
The report does not tally the number of Americans fighting abroad, but you can bet the number is much smaller given the geographic barriers to entry. The most prominent American that fought in the opposition, Phoenix native Eric Harroun, has been charged with "conspiring to use a destructive device outside the United States," which carries up to a lifetime prison sentence. Those who view that charge as heavy-handed might agree with a finding in the report: Not all jihadist groups are linked to al-Qaida and not everyone who joins a jihadist group is motivated by the jihadist world view.
"The most commonly cited reasons for joining rebel forces are the horrific images of the conflict, stories about atrocities committed by government forces, and the perceived lack of support from Western and Arab countries," reads the report. "In many cases, these individuals fully adopt the jihadist doctrine and ideology only when they are on the ground and in contact with hardened fighters." Sounds like a good report for Harroun's lawyers to keep on hand.
— Foreign Policy


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Bronze Murugan Statue with Peacock & Vel 9"
Item #: 91b16
Statue Details
Total Height Including Base: 9 inches or 23 cms
Base Width & Depth: 3 x 3 inches
Weight: 3 pounds or 1 kg
- Murugan stands holding his vel or spear with his vehicle the peacock behind him with a cobra at its feet
- A perfect statue for a small home altar
- This Murugan statue is a hand made, one of a kind, bronze sculpture cast by the artists of South India using the lost wax process, a skill passed on for generations since the Chola period
His vehicle is the peacock who struts around admiring his own beauty. Murugan keeps the peacock around to remind us not to let pride and egotism get the better of us. There is a cobra at the feet of the peacock. Against one of his arms is a vel.
Murugan is regarded as the son of Shiva and Parvati and hence the brother of Ganesha. There is a shrine to Murugan in all Saivite temples in Tamil Nadu, and likewise there are shrines to Shiva and Parvati in all temples dedicated to Skanda.
Valli, the daughter of a tribal ruler and Devani the daughter of Indra the King of Devas are the consorts of Skanda. Murugan is also revered as the nephew of Vishnu and is referred to as Maal Marugan.
Murugan's vahana or vehicle is the peacock who struts around admiring his own beauty. Murugan places himself on top of the peacock suppressing it, reminding us not to let pride and egotism get the better of us. In battle Murugan's weapon is a bow and arrow. He is often shown carrying a flag and vel or spear. The vel is a symbol of Lord Murugan. He uses the vel to guard the spiritual progress of the world.
The Story of the Birth of the Celestial Warlord: Parvati gave Shiva's aura to the gods. "From this will rise the warlord you seek," said the goddess.
The gods gave Shiva's aura to Svaha, consort of Agni, the fire god. Unable to bear the heat of the aura and the god Agni for long, Svaha gave the aura to Ganga the river goddess who cooled it in her icy waters until Shiva's aura turned into a seed.
Aranyani, the goddess of the forest, embedded the divine seed in the fertile forest floor where it was transformed into a robust child with six heads and twelve arms.
Six forest nymphs called the Krittikas found this magnificent child in a lotus. Over come by maternal affection they began nursing him. The six headed son of Shiva, born of many mothers, came to be known as Kartikeya.
Parvati taught Kartikeya the art of war and turned him into the celestial warlord called Skanda.
Skanda took command of the celestial armies, defeated Taraka in battle and restored the heavens to the gods.
Bronze is an extremely durable metal made from a combination of 5 metals; copper, iron, tin, with minute additions of silver and gold. This combination is called Panchaloha bronze and is the basis for making the sacred Hindu temple statues of India and the world. Copper is the most prevalent metal in the alloy. Copper also gives the metal a softer composition that allows the bronze artisans to carve the details that are prevalent in each piece. All the South Indian bronze sculpture Lotus Sculpture carries are Panchaloham and thus suited for any home altar or community temple.
Because of the durability of the metal not much is needed to maintain a bronze sculpture. Many of our customers purchase a bronze statue and perform daily puja and abhisheka consisting of bathing the Hindu deity in ghee, milk, coconut milk or other liquids. In this case nothing is needed to keep the statue clean as it will be bathed daily. If the sculpture is used for "darshan" or simply viewing the sculpture it is best to dust the statue as needed so no dirt collects in the details of the sculpture. For both polished golden bronzes and antique patina bronze statues if you would like the sculpture to shine use a cotton cloth with some coconut oil or other natural oil to wipe down the piece as needed.
Many of our bronze Hindu statues have been placed in outdoor temples. Bronze's durability makes it perfect for cold winters and hot summers of any climate. We suggest you bathe the sculpture every couple of months so that dirt does not collect on the sculpture and then use a cotton cloth with some natural oil to give the statue a shine. Both indoors and outdoors a bronze statue can be left alone which, overtime, will give the bronze an antique patina.
On some bronze statues you can see small hints of lime green, verde-gris patina. Some people prize this color for its age others want to remove it. If you would like to remove the verde-gris use a tooth brush with some coconut oil or other natural oil and lightly go over the verde-gris. This should remove the unwanted patina from the sculpture.
If you have any questions concerning your bronze statue please email us at [email protected] or call us at 1(760) 994-4455.
This sculpture is in our Oceanside, California store and ready for immediate shipping. The shipping charge is automatically calculated by UPS for shipping within the United States. Each sculpture is usually shipped within 24 hours of the order with the exception of the weekend. To obtain a shipping quote simply add the statue you are interested in to your shopping cart and then select click on the "Calculate Domestic Shipping" button. Lotus Sculpture uses Instapak foam injection packing system or bubble wrap and recycled peanuts to ensure that all our pieces arrive undamaged. Click here to learn more about Lotus Sculptures packing.International Shipping
This sculpture is in our Oceanside, California store and ready for immediate shipping to anywhere in the world. If you are in Canada please select "UPS Standard to Canada" for the shipping option. If you are an international customer please select "International Shipping" during checkout. The shipping charge will be calculated as $0. Lotus Sculpture will email you the correct shipping cost subject to your approval or you may call us at 760-994-4455 or email us at [email protected] for a shipping quote. Lotus Sculpture uses Instapak foam injection packing system or bubble wrap and recycled peanuts to ensure that all our pieces arrive undamaged. Click here to learn more about Lotus Sculptures packing.