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dsteve01's Journal
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Member since: Mon Dec 19, 2011, 06:17 PM
Number of posts: 312
Number of posts: 312
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U.S. war veteran released by North Korea returns home
Source: Reuters
An 85-year-old Korean War veteran held for more than a month by North Korea as a war criminal arrived in San Francisco on Saturday to be reunited with his family.
North Korea detained Merrill E. Newman for crimes it accused him of committing during the conflict six decades ago as a member of the U.S. special forces. He was released for humanitarian reasons after he apologized, the country's state news agency said.
Newman flew to China, where he boarded an 11-and-a-half-hour flight home. His United Airlines airlines flight landed at about 9 a.m.
Accompanied by half a dozen police officers, Newman looked to be in good health and held his wife's hand before walking up to a podium to briefly address the press at the airport's arrivals hall.
Read more: http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/07/us-korea-north-newman-idUSBRE9B601O20131207
Posted by dsteve01 | Sat Dec 7, 2013, 04:49 PM (5 replies)
Elizabeth Warren's Senate Gamble: Grimes, Nunn and Tennant
Yesterday morning I received an email from the Warren Campaign. She's pushing hard for three new female candidates in the senate. It sounds like this is her plan to push for a liberal senate.
Warren, E. (2013, December 6). That's What Little Girls Do. (Personal Correspondence).
[. . .]
Alright, Warren, I'll do my part and do a quick write up--for you. Also, because I have no idea who any of these people are.
Alison Grimes
Fullname: Alison Lundergan Grimes. She used to be a practicing defense attorney from Lexington, Kentucky. She claims that her victory in a domestic abuse case is what inspired her to run for the Senate.
An in-depth poll from November puts her in a "dead heat" with Mitch McConnell. An upset here would spell disaster for the Republican party.
Lake Research Partners. (2013, November 8). New Poll Reveals McConnell Vulnerabilities. Retrieved from http://www.scribd.com/doc/183332001/New-Poll-Reveals-McConnell-Vulnerabilities?secret_password=1jhymfgobsfsd8do93tf
The data reveals a dead heat between Alison Lundergan Grimes and Mitch McConnell among likely voters. the sitting Senator attracts just 37% of the vote, putting him on equal footing with Grimes' 37%. Not only that, he lags slightly behind Grimes (27% to 29%) in strong support. Meanwhile, 19% of the voters are undecided, and the third party candidates absorb the rest of the vote (2% for Patterson, 4% for Marksberry).
For more context please consult the following article:
Horn, R. (2012, November 2). This Woman's Work: Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes Goes to Frankfort. Retrieved from http://ctkschool.net/files/7113/5965/7643/Grimes_30-34.pdf
Michelle Nunn
Fullname: Mary Michelle Nunn. She's a former non-profit CEO of Points of Light, an organization that, "bring[s] the power of people to bear where it matters most" as it's mission statement. She's been working as at least an executive of PoL since 1990. She is the daughter of former senator Sam Nunn.
Public Policy Polling. (2013, August 6). Georgia Senate Starts As Toss Up. Retrieved from http://www.publicpolicypolling.com/main/2013/08/georgia-senate-starts-as-toss-up.html
Nunn herself is not all that well known- 61% of voters don't have an opinion about her and those who do have one are closely divided with 20% viewing her favorably and 19% unfavorably. But there's no doubt that the Nunn family brand remains very strong in the state- her father has a 56/12 favorability rating even after nearly 20 years out of office and his appeal cuts across party lines- he's at 64/7 with independents, 58/16 with Republicans, and 50/12 with Democrats.
Everyone seem to appreciate the work she does. See below citation:
Strauss, D. (2013, December 2). Conservative Georgia Newspaper Praises Senate Dem Candidate Michelle Nunn. Retrieved from http://talkingpointsmemo.com/livewire/conservative-georgia-newspaper-praises-michelle-nunn
Natalie Tennant
Fullname: Natalie E. Tennant. She's the current Secretary of State for West Virginia. Before that she worked as a television news anchor for several affiliates.
She clearly faces an uphill battle with Shelly Capito, but could easily win an election against Pat McGeehan.
Public Policy Polling. (2013, September 23). West Virginia Survey Results. Retrieved from http://images.politico.com/global/2013/09/23/senateresults.html
[. . .]
Tennant will have to sell herself to a more conservative audience then Nunn and Grimes. She faces an uphill battle from the get-go there. However, her current Secretary of State roll let's her start the campaign cycle with the additional funding required for such an uphill battle--I hope.
No citation there. If she doesn't have campaign cash then she's probably screwed.
For the offical biography on Tennant, check her State-provided webpage below:
Harris, B. (2013). West Virginia Secretary of State Natalie E. Tennant. Retrieved from http://www.sos.wv.gov/secretary-desk/Pages/biography.aspx
Posted by dsteve01 | Sat Dec 7, 2013, 10:39 AM (17 replies)
Microsoft Compares Government to Cyber Criminals
When does the national security budget become a national security risk?
Now, I'll be the first to take Microsoft word with a grain of salt. I feel that Microsoft's legacy of awesome business decisions don't always equal technological advancement for the rest of society.
But today they made an excellent point.
Brad Smith, Executive Vice President for Microsoft's Legal and Corporate Affairs, summarized the situation on the official Microsoft blog. He cited the government as an "advanced persistent threat" which roughly translates to "cyber criminals". You can read the details below:
Smith, B. (2013, December 4). Protecting customer data from government snooping. Retrieved from http://blogs.technet.com/b/microsoft_blog/archive/2013/12/04/protecting-customer-data-from-government-snooping.aspx
All of these changes in policy I agree with [even though I hate Microsoft's guts]. It's a well documented fact that the federal government has been pouring NSA and CIA funds into silicone valley. This last year it was approximately 30 to 50 Billion dollars (the real number has been kept secret and the CIA cites "national security" rationale). Microsoft reported Microsoft reported $21.76 billion in profits for fiscal year 2012.** Microsoft needs to come up with a dynamic methods to prevent NSA agents from stealing their intellectual property. The NSA spends maybe twice (2x) as much money lobbying silicon valley as Microsoft reports as profits!
**Robertson, A. (2013, August 29). Unprecedented 'black budget' leak reveals the scope of $52 billion US spy complex. Retrieved from http://www.theverge.com/2013/8/29/4672414/leaked-snowden-documents-reveal-details-of-surveillance-budget
These points made by Smith are particularly poinent in the shadow of the recent revelations regarding NSA's claim that they no longer need search warrants for digital tracking as you can read below:
Soltani, A. & Gellman, B. (2013, December 4). NSA Tracking Cellphone Locations Worldwide, Snowden Documents Show. Retrieved from http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/nsa-tracking-cellphone-locations-worldwide-snowden-documents-show/2013/12/04/5492873a-5cf2-11e3-bc56-c6ca94801fac_story.html
Kravets, D. (2013, December 6). NSA Wrongly Says Warrantless Mobile-Phone Location Tracking Is Legal. Retrieved from http://www.wired.com/threatlevel/2013/12/nsa-cell-site-data/
Overall, I'm glad to see that at least one multi-billion dollar enterprise standing in support of the 4th Amendment. I hope that they continue to push the government on why search warrants are necessary in our modern democracy--even if they are doing it out of their own self-interest.
Posted by dsteve01 | Fri Dec 6, 2013, 04:37 PM (2 replies)
Bill Donohue: Calling Out Liberals, Disobeying Pope
This first video puts Bill Donohue in the perspective he deserves.
*Better cited version of that video at Media Matters. (2013, September 20). Watch As CNN's Cuomo Calls Out Bill Donohue's Homophobic, Anti-Semitic Smears. Retrieved from http://mediamatters.org/video/2013/09/20/watch-as-cnns-cuomo-calls-out-bill-donohues-hom/196002*
He claims to be an independent spirit of Christ, but he is among the most divisive members of the catholic community.
A few months later, we find that Bill Donohue is about to pick a fight with Dan Savage and Bill Maher over the clip below:
HBO. (2013, November 22). Bill Maher Interviews Dan Savage on Cheneys, Baldwin, and Kiddy F*cking Catholic Priests. Retrieved from
Which he posted this personal comment on the catholic league website:
Donohue, B. (2013, November 25). http://www.catholicleague.org/cancel-bill-maher/
And then put this in context of his anti-liberal blogposts you can see at this website which proclaims itself as "Exposing and Combating Liberal Media Bias" http://newsbusters.org/blogs/bill-donohue
I'm not buying. Why do conservatives get away with incendiary comments on the TV, but Martin Bashir can't even call out Sarah Palin for the foul slave master she is. Typical America.
Posted by dsteve01 | Thu Dec 5, 2013, 05:10 PM (2 replies)
Texas School Bans 50% Students From Speaking Native Language
Karades, D. (2013, December 2). Hempstead students say principal tried to ban them from speaking Spanish. Retrieved from http://www.khou.com/news/local/Hempstead-students-say-principal-tried-to-ban-them-from-speaking-Spanish-234172961.html
People dont want to speak it no more, and they dont want to get caught speaking it because theyre going to get in trouble, said sixth-grade student Kiara Lozano.
A number of students believe the principals announcement has given some teachers and fellow classmates a hall pass to discriminate.
Theres one teacher that said, if you speak Spanish in my class, Im going to write you up, said eighth-grader Tiffani Resurez.
More than 50 percent of the students enrolled at Hempstead Middle School are Hispanic. Thats according to greatschools.org.
Students said the school has not resolved the confusion surrounding the principals attempt to ban the Spanish language in class.
She was like no speaking Spanish, explained eighth-grader Yedhany Gallegos. I was like thats my first language. She said, well you can get out.
Gallegos and many of her classmates grew up speaking Spanish at home. She said speaking Spanish with her friends at school comes as second nature.
Some parents feel the district has yet to get to the root of the problem.
Why are you punishing our children like this? asked mother Cynthia Zamora.
Associated Press. (2013, December 3). Principal Forbids Students From Speaking Spanish. Retrieved http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/principal-forbids-students-speaking-spanish-21089080
A Texas middle school principal has been placed on paid leave after she banned the speaking of Spanish by students while in class.
A Hempstead school district spokeswoman confirms that Amy Lacey has been placed on leave pending investigation of her Nov. 12 announcement on the intercom at Hempstead Middle School.
More than 50 percent of the school enrollment of about 330 students is Hispanic. KHOU-TV (http://bit.ly/...) of Houston reports a letter sent by the district to school parents assured that neither the district nor any campus has any policy banning speaking Spanish.
Edwards, D. (2013, December 4). Texas principal bans Hispanic students from speaking Spanish to prevent disruptions. Retrieved from http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/12/04/texas-principal-bans-hispanic-students-from-speaking-spanish-to-prevent-disruptions/
A group of students told KHOU that Hempstead Middle School Principal Amy Lacey announced over the intercom on Nov. 12 that they were no longer to use their native language in order to prevent disruptions.
It was over two weeks later before the superintendent sent a letter home insisting that neither the district or any campus has any policy prohibiting the speaking of Spanish.
But the students said that the effect of the ban had been chilling.
Note from dsteve01:
Isn't the whole concept of a school to be a place of safety, cultural diversity for students? I met many young hispanics in my generation that cannot speak Spanish because the grandparents refused to teach them the language out of fear for the children ability to adapt.
Who are we to judge these people to the point of forced cultural conversion? Maybe if you actually sat down to learn some Spanish you could better accommodate your students? Examples like the Hempstead school district really bring down the quality of our education system as a whole.
The federal government awards you money to help your students, not force them to adopt your world view. What's the point of this whole exercise in education if you are not enabling your students to participate?
All the best,
Posted by dsteve01 | Thu Dec 5, 2013, 02:06 PM (5 replies)
Merrill Newman: North Korea POW.
Rocha, A. (2005, May 15). Merrill Newman:They also serve. Retrieved from http://www.paloaltoonline.com/weekly/morgue/2005/2005_05_18.mnewman18.shtml
Although he spent nearly 60 years volunteering for the American Red Cross, Merrill Newman never found himself at the scene of a fire. He never helped in a blood bank; never collected clothes for victims of a tragedy.
When people talk about American Red Cross volunteers, oftentimes it's the disaster teams who steal the spotlight. Everyone wants to hear harrowing tales of leaving on a dime and racing across the states or seas to lend a hand on the frontlines.
Of course, those volunteers are invaluable. There are, however, thousands of others working long hours behind the scenes, keeping the philanthropic machine fueled. They constantly evaluate the organization's services, making sure it's as efficient as possible. They manage the assets, deal with bad fund-raising years, hire the executive directors.
Newman, 76, was part of that quiet force. He served on the Palo Alto Area Chapter's board of the American Red Cross for almost three decades. He also taught CPR and first aid throughout the years and still does.
CNN. (2013, November 20). 85-year-old American stuck in North Korea. Retrieved from
Kleck, Z. (2013, November 21). The former NBA star believes his brand of vodka could be the perfect way to bring Obama and Kim Jong-Un together. Retrieved from http://thediplomat.com/2013/11/dennis-rodman-hopes-his-vodka-will-help-us-north-korea-make-peace/
Everyone knows (President Barack) Obama drinks beer. But you know what? Im pretty sure he does have a cocktail here or there. Id love to see him with a Bad Ass Vodka shot in his hand, toasting to Kim Jong (Un) and me.
That would be awesome, Rodman added.
[. . .]
Just think, its up to Dennis Rodman to break ground with North Korea, Rodman said referring to himself in third person (of course). Im the only one in the world who will go talk to this guy and try and find some common ground with these people.
While admitting that people dont believe that, Rodman also notes that many people believe he should win a Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts.
People put that label on me like its my responsibility to save the world, he said in reference to the Nobel Peace Prize. Shockingly, he is prepared to accept such an honor, saying If it happens to come to that, then yes, I guess Im all for it. Lets just all get together and keep everything cool, man. This is not the first time hes raised the subject.
JoongAng Daily. (2013, November 21). North may be holding man hostage, reports claim. Retrieved from http://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/article/Article.aspx?aid=2980799
North Korea may have detained an elderly American man last month who entered the country on a tourist visa, Kyodo News said on Wednesday, citing an unnamed diplomatic source.
Kyodo, in a report from Beijing, said the possible detention could become another diplomatic bargaining chip for North Korea, which has held Korean-American tour guide Kenneth Bae since November 2012. Bae has been sentenced by the regime to 15 years of hard labor.
U.S. Embassy officials in Beijing and Seoul said they were aware of the reports but could not confirm them.
North Korea claims the man, who allegedly is not of Korean descent, has broken the law, according to Kyodo. The man entered North Korea for sightseeing last month with a valid visa, the diplomatic source was quoted as saying.
We are aware of reports that a U.S. citizen was detained in North Korea, but we have no additional information to share at this time, said Nolan Barkhouse, a spokesman for the U.S. Embassy in Beijing.
CNN. (2013, November 21). California Man Pulled Off Plane In North Korea, Detained Son Says. Retrieved from
Fisher, M. (2013, November 22). Why did North Korea arrest an 85-year-old American? Here are four possible reasons. Retrieved from http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/worldviews/wp/2013/11/22/why-did-north-korea-arrest-an-85-year-old-american-here-are-four-possible-reasons/
Theory 1: North Korean authorities mistook him for another Merrill Newman.
[. . .]
Theory 2: Newman accidentally crossed some government red line.
[. . .]
Theory 3: North Korea just wanted a new hostage to use as a bargaining chip.
[. . .]
Theory 4: Newman crossed some unknown, more serious line.
Currey, C. (2013, November 22). Did North Korea Detain The Wrong US Korean War Vet?. Retrieved from http://abcnews.go.com/US/north-korea-detain-wrong-us-war-veteran/story?id=20981395
[. . .]
Authorities have kept Newman's situation quiet for weeks, but former New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, a former ambassador to the U.N., confirmed to ABC News today he has been in touch with his North Korean contacts working on the situation. The State Department has declined to release details about Newman's status.
Newman was a Korean War veteran, one of many that has gone back to visit North Korea in the decades after their service.
But another North Korean veteran named Merrill H. Newman, age 84, was, until recently, the better-known Merrill Newman. He received a Silver Star for his time in the Korean War.
"The thought entered my head," said Merrill H. Newman, reached at his home in Beaverton, Ore. "The name is the same and there's always that possibility, but I have no way of knowing."
"The thing that has been kicked around by media people, not me, is that I received a Silver Star for 60 years ago in Korea and I have the same name, so the question has come up, could it be that in the process of maybe Googling, like anybody can, and finding that perhaps they thought there was a connection there? I don't know. I have no way of knowing," he said.
Pearson, J. & Dobuzinskis, A. (2013, November 22). American held in North Korea, a case of mistaken identity? Retrieved from http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/22/us-korea-north-detention-identity-idUSBRE9AL06620131122
[. . .]
Merrill E. Newman's service record is not on the public record. All that is known is that he was an infantry officer during the war.
"The Korean War was discussed and my dad's role in the service, and the meeting concluded," Jeff Newman told CNN, describing a conversation between his father and North Korean officials the night before he was due to return home.
North Korea is technically at war with the United States after an armistice rather than a peace treaty ended the conflict.
It was not possible to confirm whether an internet search did take place with North Korean officials, although people who visit the North regularly said they had similar experiences with screening and there were cases of mistaken identity.
"I have been emailed before by someone from a DPRK embassy who has searched on the internet and found something they consider to be undesirable linked to someone with the same name as a tourist whose visa I have applied for," Hannah Barraclough, tourism manager at Beijing-based Koryo Tours, told Reuters.
Rauhala, E. (2013 November 22). 85-Year-Old U.S. Veteran Detained in North Korea May Not Be Home for Thanksgiving. Retrieved from http://news.yahoo.com/85-old-u-veteran-detained-north-korea-may-191835268.html
[. . .]
Glyn Davies, U.S. special representative for North Korea policy, seemed frustrated that the DPRK has yet to name their terms. Speaking to reporters in Beijing, he framed the incident as an opportunity to re-engage. North Korea could send a very different signal about its interest in having a different sort of relationship with the United States were it to take that step of releasing our citizens, he said. Its a matter of some wonderment to me that they havent yet moved on that.
Newmans family, meanwhile, faces the prospect of the holidays without him. All we want as a family is to have my father, my kids grandfather, returned to California so he can be with his family for Thanksgiving. With no word from Pyongyang, that would be a miracle.
Tuttle, S. (2013, November 23). 85-year-old Korean war vet detained in North Korea. Retrieved from http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/362670
[. . .]
Information has yet to be released as to why Newman was detained or his physical treatment by North Korean authorities. As the U.S. has no diplomatic relations with North Korea, the Swedish Embassy has acted as a mediator between Newman and his family.
Newman was reported to have a heart condition and only brought with him a 10-day supply of his medication to last him through the trip. Though his family sent more of his prescribed medication through the Swedish Embassy, there has been no word yet on whether or not he received it or has access to it.
Feldman, D. & Kearney, L. (2013, November 23). War vet's detention 'hostage taking'. Retrieved from http://www.stuff.co.nz/world/asia/9435254/War-vets-detention-hostage-taking
[. . .]
"The family feels there has been some dreadful misunderstanding leading to his detention and asks that the DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) work to settle this issue quickly and to return this 85-year-old grandfather to his anxious, concerned family," she said.
The statement was issued through the retirement home where the Newmans live in the upscale northern California town of Palo Alto.
Their son, Jeff Newman, told Reuters the family remained concerned about his father's health, saying there had been no communication with him since he was taken.
The son's comments came as a State Department official in Washington told reporters that North Korea had confirmed through diplomatic channels its detention of a US citizen, but the official did not identify the person.
CNN. (2013, November 24). Korean war vet detained by Pyongyang. Retrieved from
Woodruff, B. (2013, November 25). Family of Detained American Merrill Newman Worried About His Health in North Korea. Retrieved from http://abcnews.go.com/International/family-detained-korean-war-vet-merrill-newman-worried/story?id=21000290
Merrill Newman, of Palo Alto, Calif., was pulled from a plane Oct. 26 while preparing to leave the communist nation after a 10-day tour. Newman's family is now stressing over his health because the former finance executive has a heart condition and has run out of medication. Newman's family has sent new pills to officials in Beijing where they were picked up by the Swedish ambassador and flown to Pyongyang.
"We know that the Swedish ambassador picked that up in Beijing and brought it to North Korea and then delivered it to the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, but we have no idea whether he's received it," Newman's son, Jeffrey, told ABC News. "We've no contact from him. We know nothing about his status."
CNN. (2013, November 25). American Detained in North KoreaMistaken Identity?. Retrieved from
LeakSource. (2013, November 30). North Korea Releases Video of Detained US Veteran Merrill Newman Apologizing for Alleged Espionage/War Crimes. Retrieved from https://leaksource.wordpress.com/2013/11/30/north-korea-releases-video-of-detained-us-veteran-merrill-newman-apologizing-for-alleged-espionage-war-crimes/
The Korean Central News Agency released the following report on Saturday:
A relevant institution of the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea recently put in custody U.S. citizen Merrill Edward Newman who committed hostile acts against the DPRK after entering the country under the guise of a tourist.
After entering the DPRK as a member of tourists group in October he perpetrated acts of infringing upon the dignity and sovereignty of the DPRK and slandering its socialist system, quite contrary to the purpose of tour.
He also committed such crime as trying to look for spies and terrorists who conducted espionage and subversive activities against the DPRK in the area of Mt. Kuwol during the last Fatherland Liberation War as well as their families and descendants and connect them with the Kuwol Partisan Comrades-in-Arms Association, an anti-DPRK plot-breeding organization of south Korea.
According to the results of the investigation, he was active as adviser of Kuwol Unit of the UN Korea 6th Partisan Regiment part of the Intelligence Bureau of the Command of the U.S. Forces in the Far East since early in 1953. He is a criminal as he masterminded espionage and subversive activities against the DPRK and in this course he was involved in killings of service personnel of the Korean Peoples Army and innocent civilians.
The investigation clearly proved Newmans hostile acts against the DPRK and they were backed by evidence. He admitted all his crimes and made an apology for them.
KCNA. (2013, November 30). Merrill Newman, American vet held in N. Korea, reads apology letter. Retrieved from
Park, J. & Pearson, J. (2013, December 1). Unforgotten fighter of Korean war: U.S. pensioner a POW at 85. Retrieved from http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/01/us-korea-north-partisans-idUSBRE9AT06S20131201
Kim Chang-sun, the former rank-and-file partisan member, recalled Newman as a big American military officer with a warm heart who supervised their training and landing operations.
"He had this U.S. army food box and shared that with us. He stayed with us at a bunker," said Kim, now 81.
"They detained him because he served in the Kuwol regiment. He is just a very bad guy for them," Kim said, referring to the North Korean authorities.
It is not entirely clear why Newman took the risk of visiting North Korea. But evidently the war and his former comrades had left a deep impression on him.
"Kuwolsan was among the most effective guerrilla warfare units," he wrote in a congratulatory message attached to a book published by the Kuwolsan Guerrilla Unit Comrade Association in Seoul.
"I am proud to have served with you."
PressTV. (2013, December 1). US Veteran Confesses To 'Hostile Acts' In North Korea. Retrieved from http://www.presstv.ir/detail/2013/12/01/337578/american-admits-hostile-acts-in-n-korea/
[. . .]
"As I killed so many civilians and KPA (Korean People's Army) soldiers and destroyed strategic objects in the DPRK during the Korean War, I committed indelible offensive acts against the DPRK government and Korean people," he said.
"The investigation clearly proved Newman's hostile acts against the DPRK, and they were backed by evidence," KCNA added. "He admitted all his crimes and made an apology for them."
"If I go back to (the) USA, I will tell the true features of the DPRK and the life the Korean people are leading," the statement concluded.
CCTV. (2013, December 01). US calls for release of 85-yr-old Korean War veteran. Retrieved from http://english.cntv.cn/program/newsupdate/20131201/101041.shtml
The US is calling on the DPRK to release an 85-year-old American citizen whos been detained in the country for more than a month.
Retired finance executive Merrill Newman fought in the Korean War 60 years ago. He was taken off a plane on October 26th by DPRK authorities as he was about to leave the country, following a 10-day visit. A US National Security Council spokesperson called for Newmans immediate release and for him to be reunited with his family, citing his age and health. A US state department official says Swedish diplomats in Pyongyang have visited Newman.
There are reports that the Korean War veteran apologized for his wartime activities during his visit in the DPRK.
DailyMail Online. (2013, December 1). American veteran, 85, held captive in North Korea and forced to read confession is allowed crucial medication. Retrieved from http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2516573/Veteran-85-held-captive-North-Korea-getting-medication.html
The Kuwol Regiment was just one of many groups of anti-communist partisans that were under the command of the U.S. Army 8240th Unit, nicknamed the 'White Tigers'.
The White Tigers co-ordinated some of the most daring missions of the Korean War, embedding undercover agents deep in enemy territory - sometimes for months at a time - spying on and disrupting North Korean wartime operations, according to documented histories of the regiment.
The unit, whose existence was classified until the early 1990s, was the predecessor to U.S. special forces. Members of the White Tigers were handpicked from the U.S. Army, and not told about their mission until they arrived in Seoul.
NBC News. (2013, December 1). North Korea Says Detained American Tourist Merrill Newman Apologizes. http://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/N-Korea-Says-Detained-American-Tourist-Merrill-Newman-Apologizes-233893681.html
SkyNews. (2013, December 1). North Korea: Detained American 'Admits Crimes'. Retrieved from http://news.sky.com/story/1175855/north-korea-detained-american-admits-crimes
Weiss, L. (2013, December 1). US urges North Korea to release detained tourist Merill Newman. Retrieved from http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/363180
SkyNews. (20113, December 1). US Urges Release of Man in North Korea. Retrieved from http://www.skynews.com.au/world/article.aspx?id=929749
SkyNew. (2013, December 1). US Urges 'Immediate Release' of American. Retrieved from http://www.skynews.com.au/world/article.aspx?id=929852.
Pous, T. (2013, December 1). 10 things you need to know today: December 1, 2013. Retrieved from http://theweek.com/article/index/253533/10-things-you-need-to-know-today-december-1-2013
Kumar, A. (2013, December 1). White House Urges N. Korea to Release US Christian Kenneth Bae, 85-Y-O Veteran Merrill Newman. Retrieved from http://www.christianpost.com/news/white-house-urges-n-korea-to-release-us-christian-kenneth-bae-85-y-o-veteran-merrill-newman-109835/
Kim, L. & Gulezian, L. (2013, December 1). Palo Alto man detained in Nkorea served with secret group. Retrieved from http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=news/local/south_bay&id=9345047
Rauhala, E. (2013, December 1). Detention of 85-Year-Old Hasnt Stopped Tourists From Traveling to North Korea. Retrieved from http://world.time.com/2013/12/01/detention-of-85-year-old-hasnt-stopped-tourists-from-traveling-to-north-korea/
Wroughton, L. & Kim, J. (2013, December 1). U.S. calls on North Korea to release war veteran. Retrieved from http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/02/us-korea-north-newman-veteran-idUSBRE9B001T20131202
Associated Press. (2013, December 1). Swedish ambassador visits 85-year-old US vet held in North Korea. Retrieved from http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Latest-News-Wires/2013/1201/Swedish-ambassador-visits-85-year-old-US-vet-held-in-North-Korea
MacLeod, C. (2013, December 1). Analysts: U.S. vet held in N. Korea could soon be freed. Retrieved from http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2013/12/01/north-korea-newman-bae/3795137/
Fox News. (2013, December 2). Family of American vet, 85, detained in North Korea hopes for his release. Retrieved from http://www.foxnews.com/world/2013/12/01/north-korea-says-detained-american-committed-hostile-acts-against-country/
May, P. (2013, December 2). New Details on California Grandfather Held Hostage in North Korea. Retrieved from http://www.dailynews.com/general-news/20131202/new-details-on-california-grandfather-held-hostage-in-north-korea
NBC News.(2013, December 2). Merrill Newman Family: He Is Well in North Korea. Retrieved from http://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/Merrill-Newman-Family-He-Is-Well-in-North-Korea-233953471.html
[. . .]
We received a report from the State Department today that the Ambassador of Sweden in the DPRK was permitted to visit Merrill Newman on Saturday, November 30th, at the Yanggakdo Hotel in Pyongyang.
We were very pleased to hear that the Ambassador was allowed to pay this first visit to Merrill. We want to thank the Swedish Ambassador and also express appreciation for the cooperation of the DPRK government in allowing the visit to take place. As a result of the visit, we know that Merrill is in good health. He has received the medications that we sent him and medical personnel are checking on his health several times a day. Merrill reports that he is being well treated and that the food is good. As you can imagine, we had been deeply worried about all of these things and today's consular visit has eased our concerns.
Our focus now is on getting him home quickly to join his loved ones, who miss him deeply. We are asking that the DPRK authorities take into account his health and his age and, as an act of humanitarian compassion, allow him to depart immediately for home. All of us want this ordeal to end and for the 85 year-old head of our extended family to be with us once more.
Thank you,
The Newman Family
Posted by dsteve01 | Tue Dec 3, 2013, 05:40 PM (0 replies)
Top Ten News Stories 11.30.2013
Some guys play video games, but I read news stories. I have a roommate backing me up on the research and I feel like I could get in a good ten stories every day. Please enjoy this series and share it with your friends--I hope to be able to get my virtual studio tech up soon and push these out as custom youtube news videos for liberals like us. I like feedback and I love criticism.
10.) Blodget, H. (2013, November 29). Sorry, Folks, Rich People Actually Don't 'Create The Jobs'. Retrieved from http://www.businessinsider.com/rich-people-create-jobs-2013-11
"Rich people create the jobs."
Specifically, by starting and directing America's companies, rich entrepreneurs and investors create the jobs that sustain everyone else.This statement is usually invoked to justify cutting taxes on entrepreneurs and investors. If only we reduce those taxes and regulations, the story goes, entrepreneurs and investors can be incented to build more companies and create more jobs.
This argument ignores the fact that taxes on entrepreneurs and investors are already historically low, even after this year's modest increases. And it ignores the assertions of many investors and entrepreneurs (like me) that they would work just as hard to build companies even if taxes were higher.
9.) Stein, S. & Bendery, J. (2013, November 30). Obama Gets A Second Shot At Getting Health Care Reform Right. Retrieved from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/11/30/obama-health-care-reform_n_4361679.html
On a technological level, the administration is far ahead of where it stood on Oct. 1 -- an important but hardly remarkable feat considering how bad things were two months ago. Medicare spokeswoman Julie Bataille said that as of the end of November, approximately 50,000 users will be able to use HealthCare.gov concurrently, which will be the equivalent of more than 800,000 during a day.
If user interest exceeds those numbers, the administration has set up a customer-friendly queuing system which would notify you when to come back to the site and sort of be first in line, Jeff Zients, President Barack Obamas point man for rebuilding the website, told reporters in a Tuesday roundtable.
8.) Icarius. (2013, November 27). Study: Conservatives More Likely To Make Up Facts In Order to Justify Their Beliefs. Retrieved from http://iacknowledge.net/study-conservatives-more-likely-to-make-up-facts-in-order-to-justify-their-beliefs/
Two psychologists Brittany Liu and Peter Ditto from the University of California-Irvine conducted a study to evaluate how liberals and conservatives dealt with so called hard truths in areas that they may not be prone to believing because of their ideologies. The study looked at four areas two of these areas are supported by liberals and detested by conservatives and two are supported by conservatives and detested by liberals:
#1 Educating kids on condoms
#2 Embryonic stem cell research
#3 The death penalty
#4 Water boarding captives
Even though both liberals and conservatives alike had a tendency to rationalize their views conservatives created a new reality essentially in all four of these areas in order to square their thought process. The conservative movement by and large suffers from this; another term for this is cognitive dissonance. For whatever reason the brains of conservatives just make stuff up in order to justify their support for two conflicting beliefs.
7.) Drew, C. (2013, November 29). Scandal Widens Over Contracts for Navy Work. Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/30/us/scandal-widens-over-contracts-for-navy-work.html?ref=us
The Justice Department is looking into allegations that the company, Inchcape Shipping Services, with the help of subcontractors, overcharged the Navy by millions of dollars, interviews and previously undisclosed court documents show.
Inchcape, which is owned by the government of Dubai, was suspended this week from winning new federal contracts and is expected to meet with Justice Department officials soon to discuss the case.
The civil fraud investigation, which was prompted by a whistle-blower who had worked for the company, is another serious embarrassment for the Navy, which is already grappling with a criminal investigation of its main ship supplier in the Pacific, Glenn Defense Marine Asia.
6.) Wydra, E. (2013, November 27). Religious Liberty Is For People, Not Corporations. Retrieved from http://edition.cnn.com/2013/11/26/opinion/wydra-supreme-court-obamacare/index.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+rss%2Fcnn_topstories+%28RSS%3A+Top+Stories%29
Unless the Supreme Court reverses these radical decisions, the consequences could reach far beyond the Affordable Care Act, making this particular roadblock for Obamacare more problematic in the long term than the well-publicized problems associated with the health exchange website's rollout.
By accepting the religious free-exercise claims, these three federal courts have turned first principles of religious freedom, as well as fundamental tenets of corporate law, on their head.
From the nation's founding until today, the Constitution's protection of religious liberty has been seen as a personal right, inextricably linked to the human capacity to express devotion to a God and act on the basis of reason and conscience.
5.) Spetalnick, M. (2013, November 26). Americans Back Iran Deal By 2-to-1 Margin: Reuters/Ipsos Poll. Retrieved from http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/27/us-usa-iran-poll-idUSBRE9AQ01420131127?feedType=RSS&feedName=everything&virtualBrandChannel=11563
Americans back a newly brokered nuclear deal with Iran by a 2-to-1 margin and are very wary of the United States resorting to military action against Tehran even if the historic diplomatic effort falls through, a Reuters/Ipsos poll showed on Tuesday.
The findings were rare good news in the polls for President Barack Obama, whose approval ratings have dropped in recent weeks because of the botched rollout of his signature healthcare reform law.
4.) Pizzi, M. (2013, November 30). Syria Rebels Say Peace Talks Destined For Failure. Retrieved from http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2013/11/30/syria-rebels-skepticalaboutgenevatalks.html
"At long last and for the first time, the Syrian government and opposition will meet at the negotiating table instead of the battlefield, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said on Tuesday as he announced the long-delayed summit for Jan. 22 in Geneva. Arab League chief Nabil Elaraby promptly affirmed his support for the planned conference and said his only regret was the long delay in scheduling the talks.
But comments from world leaders wrangling for a solution to the war belie a bleak reality: almost no one believes the long-anticipated talks will succeed not even the Coalition itself.
I really dont think the prospects of a successful meeting are there the gaps between the two sides are huge, Najib Ghadbian, the Coalition's special representative to the United States, told Al Jazeera. The Coalition will go to Geneva, Ghadbian said, to push for delivery of humanitarian aid to besieged cities and for the release of some of Syria's tens of thousands of political prisoners. "From our point of view," he said, "we have nothing really to lose."
3.) Goodman, A. & Shaikh, N. (2013, November 26). As Wal-Mart Workers Plan Record Black Friday Protests, Study Says Retail Giant Can Afford Higher Pay. Retrieved from http://www.democracynow.org/2013/11/26/as_wal_mart_workers_plan_record
AMY GOODMAN: Amidst criticism of the workers low wages, Wal-Mart has been touting its campaign to promote more than 25,000 of its roughly 1.3 million U.S. employees by the end of January. The workers are featured in clips on the companys YouTube channel, like this one.
GREGORY PORTIS: Hi, how are you doing? I am the produce manager here at Wal-Mart. I started with the company four months ago. Ive been promoted to the department manager three weeks after I started. This time of the year is a really busy time of the year due to Thanksgiving and Christmas. We have a lot of customers that are in the store, so we try to meet all their needs and getting them everything that they want, to make sure that they can take care of their families.
AMY GOODMAN: Wal-Mart Spokesperson Kory Lundberg said the company already has hundreds of thousands of associates who earn at least $25,000 per year. Catherine Reutschlin, your response?
CATHERINE RUETSCHLIN: Wal-Mart, by their own admission, is just making the same promotions that they would have made anyway. This isnt an improvement in their labor standards at all. In fact, what it is, is a lot of workers who have been part time before and just kind of waiting on the fringes for the opportunity to put in more hours are being kind of touted with a grand fanfare that this is a great promotion. But, it doesnt change the fundamental labor practices at Wal-Mart where they operate on a model of low investment in their workforce and high turnover. In fact, approximately 500,000 Wal-Mart workers quit every year.
2.) BBC News Asia. (2013, November 30). US Carriers Urged To Comply With China Air Zone Rules. Retrieved from http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-25165503
The establishment of the ADIZ has caused widespread anger, with the US state department calling it "an attempt to unilaterally change the status quo in the East China Sea" which will "raise regional tensions and increase the risk of miscalculation, confrontation and accidents".
But on Friday, the state department said the US government "generally expects that US carriers operating internationally will operate consistent with Notams [Notices to Airmen] issued by foreign countries".
It added: "Our expectation of operations by US carriers consistent with NOTAMs does not indicate U.S. government acceptance of China's requirements for operating in the newly declared ADIZ."
1.) JANE Perlez, J. (2013, November 30). North Korea Accuses Detained U.S. Veteran of War Crimes. Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/01/world/asia/north-korea-accuses-detained-us-veteran-of-war-crimes.html?hp&_r=0
North Korea has accused an American veteran of war crimes and on Saturday released a video of him confessing to hostile acts during the Korean War and while he was visiting the country in October.
The veteran, Merrill Newman, 85, of Palo Alto, Calif., who has been held since Oct. 26, appeared on the video dressed in casual Western clothes and wearing glasses as he read excerpts from the apology from several sheets of white paper.
. . .
In the apology Mr. Newman describes how he wanted to meet surviving soldiers and pray for the souls of the dead soldiers involved in the Korean War. If he met any surviving soldiers he planned to put them in touch with members of the Kuwol Partisan Comrades-in-Arms Association who had escaped to South Korea, the apology said.
Posted by dsteve01 | Sat Nov 30, 2013, 01:41 PM (4 replies)
NY Mayoral Debate Highlights: Anthony Weiner is Still Texting
Yes, the mayoral debate for NY happened yesterday. Lots of important things were said. But if you want to laugh at Anthony, Skip to 2:50. Oh, Anthony, you so crazy.
On a more serious note. Democrats look strong. I'm excited for New York. Real, full-blown excited.
Posted by dsteve01 | Wed Oct 23, 2013, 06:58 PM (0 replies)
Gov. Paul LePage: "About 47% of able-bodied people in the state of Maine dont work"
Let this be a lesson to the American people. Heed his humble words of truth and valor.
Awesome blog from Maine on the topic:
The quote is stunning, both for how ridiculous it is on its face as well as how closely it mirrors a comment made by 2012 Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney, who also took aim at 47% of the population (those he said were victims, dependent on government and therefore voting for his opponent) in a leaked video that did significant damage to his campaign.
Just to be absolutely clear, LePages statistic is completely wrong. Currently, around 65% of Mainers over the age of 15 are working or are unemployed and actively seeking work. Of the remaining 35%, almost all are retired, are caring for children or other family members, are pursuing education or training or have a disability that prevents them from working. Only a tiny fraction arent working for other reasons. The conservative Heritage Foundation, using U.S. Census data, puts this number at 1.1% nationally.
Maine is known for our strong Yankee work ethic and we have a higher labor force participation rate than the rest of the country, despite our more elderly population. We work harder, longer and often in more dangerous occupations than people almost anywhere else.
We deserve a Governor who is proud of Maine, doesnt falsely believe that half the people he was elected to serve are lazy and useless and doesnt govern as if this were true.
Let's remember that this guy is calling upon his experience as a manager for an Antiques firm. That's not exactly cutting edge technology for the next generation of workers.
Posted by dsteve01 | Tue Oct 22, 2013, 03:35 PM (13 replies)
Holy Shit
I live in Albuquerque. Am I going to have to do some real live action reporting?
Posted by dsteve01 | Mon Oct 21, 2013, 12:43 PM (0 replies)


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Muhammad Wilkerson sent a message to the Patriots on Monday, claiming that the Jets were going to win in Foxboro. One day later, though, the Jets' defensive lineman is adjusting his statement.
The so-called guarantee came during a radio interview with WFAN in New York. During the interview, Wilkerson clearly says "We're going [to go] up to Foxboro and get this win," which might sound like a guarantee to the untrained ear. But, Wilkerson made sure to clarify the situation on Tuesday.
"I didn't guarantee no win or anything. All I said was, as long as we follow the game plan … we'll be fine," Wilkerson said to ESPN New York's Rich Cimini.
Looking at a conversation Wilkerson had with Newsday's Bob Glauber on Monday, it seems that maybe the defensive lineman wasn't guaranteeing a win after all. Instead, he was just projecting the confidence his Jets team has been developing over the past few months.
"If our game plan is as good as it was , I don't see why we won't be 2-0," Wilkerson said. "I'm confident in our coaching staff to have a great game plan and us being 2-0.
"I'm not saying I'm guaranteeing it, but I'm saying if we do our jobs and follow our game plan, I don't see why we wouldn't be 2-0," Wilkerson added. "We had a good game plan in the first game and we won, so why wouldn't I feel that way for this game? I'm here with these guys every day and I see all the hard work that myself and everybody else on this team is putting in. We can be a dominant defense."
Even if Wilkerson was only projecting the confidence of his team, there's no doubt that the Patriots heard the message loud and clear. And the last thing the Jets need right now is to give a frustrated Patriots team any more ammo.
Have a question for Luke Hughes? Send it to him via Twitter at @LukeFHughes or send it here.
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
Welcome to Islamic World Studies
Islamic World Studies (IWS) is CUA's multidisciplinary program focused on the societies, cultures, religious traditions, and politics of the Muslim world. Open to all CUA undergraduates, IWS offers a Minor and a Certificate in CUA's School of Arts & Sciences. These programs supplement undergraduate majors by assembling University offerings on the Islamic world, covering the Middle East and Africa to South and Southeast Asia to Europe and the Americas, from the emergence of Islam until today. IWS draws on the expertise of scholars in Modern Languages, History, Media Studies, Semitics, Anthropology, Philosophy and Religious Studies, as well as resources of the J.K. Mullen Library and the Consortium of Washington Area Universities.
The Islamic World Studies Certificate requires students to undertake a serious commitment to Arabic.The Minor has no language requirement.
Program Director and Advisor
Fall 2017 Courses
Courses not requiring Arabic
HIST 308A: Modern Middle East (IWS requirement)
HIST 309C: Muslims, Christians, and Jews in the Medieval Mediterranean
PHIL 334: Philosophy in the Islamic World
POL 326: Politics of the Middle East
TRS 398: Introduction to Islam
Courses in or requiring Arabic
ARAB 101: Introduction to modern Standard Arabic
ARAB 103: Intermediate Modern Standard Arabic I
ARAB 203: Advanced Arabic Composition and Conversation I
SEM 541: Introduction to Arabic I (Classical)
(permission of instructor required)


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Mental Health
Have Mental Health Questions? Ask a Psychiatrist Online
Hi. Welcome. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker with more than 20 years experience working with individuals and families on a variety of issues.
Good morning. As a woman we all can feel quite hypercritical about her image and feel quite self conscious about how we look.
It is as if there will never be a photo that she is totally satisfied with as she sees "imperfections" that others dont see but that she feels exist.
Even with outside priase or reassurance if the distortion exists the positive feedback doesn't always make it through.
I do think it is lovely that you want to share the photos of the two of you and you want the flexibility to do so. You are doing the right thing by including her in the process and asking her to offer one or two that she can feel okay about you sharing.
I will wait for you to come online so we can chat further.


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Would you buy the D800 Again?
For those of you that own and have used the D800, would you buy this camera again given the choice (based on price/performance)? Thank you.
mbecke wrote:
For those of you that own and have used the D800, would you buy this camera again given the choice (based on price/performance)? Thank you.
Not until Nikon fixes the left AF issue.
I have very little experience with it since I literally got hours ago, but for my needs I think it is God's gift to photographers.
I guess that equates to a YES for your question.
My needs are something that will yield the performance of the D700 (or better) and be able to print A2 or perhaps larger. The D800 meets or exceeds those requirements for me.
Your needs may differ.
Yes. Its worth the hype. I was one of those who thought more pixels kills high ISO, but this camera has smashed a few preconceptions. It's making me a more disciplined shooter too.
"You're guaranteed to miss 100% of the shots you don't take" - Wayne Gretzky
yes I would, but the E version for round 2, but hopefully with well calibrated af sensor
Yes I would. I've not used it much other than doing some testing and casual photos but camera is really very good. Yes in a heart beat.
Reality is those waiting have a long wait with the worldwide demand because it is a very good camera especially for the price.
Have played with the D800 for about a week now, I can honestly say that this thing is an animal-and-a-half! The resolution is stunning, and it handles noise amazingly well!
Hell, I'm considering getting a D800E as a main and or backup camera. Nikon seriously knocked the ball out of the park with this one!
f/8 and be there!
Yes. Absolutely, best camera - and easiest to use that I have ever owned.
It might be true that a camera can't make you a better photographer, but it can certainly make your pictures look a lot better!
It has exceeded my expectations by a wide margin in every aspect except supply and availability of accessories.
I've been using the D800 for 2 days, about 300 images, with various lenses, and I can say without a doubt, YES! I have zero AF issues, as someone mentioned about, no quirks, it's seems lighter than my 5D Mk II was, and IQ absolutely destroys the 5D Mk II. You can shoot comfortably at super high ISO, with little penalty, and images at low ISO as incredibly detailed, with beautiful colors.
This camera is an absolute home run. It is everything they say it is and more.
I just got done uploaded a few night time, test run images I made with my new D800 to my DPR gallery. It's wonderful working with them in LR as D800 files are super malleable.
Cheers, Markus Arike
NO, but I would buy the 800E every day and twice on Sunday
FCAS Member - http://fcasmembers.com/
I did buy it again, but the 2nd copy had the same left AF issue, so I had to return that one as well.
mbecke wrote:
For those of you that own and have used the D800, would you buy this camera again given the choice (based on price/performance)? Thank you.
The D800 IMHO is a camera ahead of it's time. Rather, it's a camera that some of the world needs to catch up to.
I have clients who are amazed by the file size and are thankful for the freedom it gives them to crop and compose.
Going to be another month or so before I see anything in print but my guess is that the images are going to look outstanding in ink.
Bill F
I thought I could never love a camera as much as my D700...boy was I wrong!
I've owned just about every Nikon SLR going back to the original 'F".
This is the best!
Yes, I would have made a few changes in menu design and function buttons but, as far as actual imaging...there's nothing else like it.
Mike Harvey
I am in Phoenix on a two week vacation visiting family. Went to Sedona Arizona and other spots in the area, just beautiful.
I no longer enjoy schlepping my gear around. brought:
70-300 vr
300 f4
50 f1.8g
85 f1.8g
Wife brought her V1 with lens kit.
I hate hauling gear, brought a lot so I had whatever I needed.
Well the D800 is spectacular, period. The files are to die for. With good hand held techniques you can get great results!
I found my 14-24 does not focus well in low light. (Typical for UWA's) Also found the left focus points do not work on the 24-70 and 14-24. I will address this with my dealer when I get home.
That said, for important photos, I have no choice but to shoot with my D800. It is a must for landscape, I am blown away. So, I will just learn to use the kit as is. When I want to travel lite, I will strip off the grip and carry the 50/85 and get the 28 f1.8g when available.
I was always a little uncomfortable with 10 and 12 MP with landscape shots, but for the first time I am not concerned. This is as close to shooting with my old TLR's and Mamiya RB-67 as possible. (Without using big digital backs I can not afford.)
Jeff Morris / Homecinemaman
Adams, Gutmann, Steichen, Snoopy, Stigletz, Weston. they lead by example.
I hunt, I peck, I squint, all on a MacBook Pro 13" laptop. So don't laugh, I'm happy there aren't more typo's! (Love the screen and touch pad, hate the keyboard.)
Best DSLR camera I have ever used (and I have had a few the passed 10 years).
My equipment: Nikon D3s, D800, EOS 450D IR modded, EOS 60Da on order (if ever Canon wants to deliver)
The ladies equipment: Panasonic LX5 and GH2 for video
Great camera. great AF accuracy, but I think I would buy the E version instead to get the ultimate detail, which was the reason why I bought the D800 in the first place.
No, I didn't get any improvement over Canon.
marike6 wrote:
and IQ absolutely destroys the 5D Mk II
Cheers, Markus Arike
could you tell for which situations and with which lenses (which are comparable)?
Actually I think that Nikon shot themselves into the foot with the D800... it's very likely more of a camera than I'll ever need. Unless my skills improve considerably or I lose the camera, this was the last DSLR I've purchased in this life.
|Patrick Finds Inner Peace by ecastellon
from Your best photo of the week!
|Forks by Kukla
from Arranged everyday objects


text:
Friends of the High Line
High Line Membership
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Call for Artists, Premiere Portfolio sign-up for your Free Portfolio or create an Artist Portfolio today and sell your art at the marketplace for contemporary Art! Start a Gallery Site to exclusively showcase your gallery. Keep track of contemporary art with your free MYabsolutearts account.


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Orthodox cleric receives threats following Golden Dawn comments
Expand Messages
- http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_wsite1_1_22/10/2012_466843
Orthodox cleric receives threats following Golden Dawn comments
A Greek orthodox cleric has been receiving threatening phone calls after
speaking against the country's increasingly popular neo-fascist party,
according to press reports.
A verger at the Aghios Dimitrios church in West Macedonia has reported
that an unknown person recently called and said "we shall burn that commie."
The church has reportedly received numerous complaints and warnings from
what appear to be supporters of Golden Dawn and nationalist activists.
Metropolitan Pavlos of Siatista last week criticized Golden Dawn after
members of the Greek far-right party protested against the premiere of
Terrence McNally's Corpus Christi in Athens.
In an interview with Imerisia newspaper on Sunday, the metropolitan
described Golden Dawn as "uncivilized," adding that the party's acts
"have nothing to do with ancient Greek civilization nor the Gospel."
"We all have to take a clear stand on the Golden Dawn issue... We have
to preach the word of God, which has nothing to do with the acts
committed by members of Golden Dawn," the metropolitan said.
Meanwhile, Golden Dawn leader Nikos Michalolioakos sparked fresh
controversy over the weekend after giving the Nazi salute during a
speech at a Golden Dawn youth rally.
"We may sometimes hail like this, but our hands are clean," he said
while flashing the Nazi salute.
An opinion poll last week ranked Golden Dawn at third place with 14
percent of support.
ekathimerini.com , Monday October 22, 2012 (12:37)
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text:
List Entry Summary
This building is listed under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 as amended for its special architectural or historic interest.
Name: LOW MILL FARMHOUSE AND ADJOINING BARN/BYRES
List entry Number: 1319016
The building may lie within the boundary of more than one authority.
County: Cumbria
District: Eden
District Type: District Authority
Parish: Mungrisdale
National Park: LAKE DISTRICT
Grade: II*
Date first listed: 11-Jan-1985
Date of most recent amendment: Not applicable to this List entry.
Legacy System Information
The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.
Legacy System: LBS
Asset Groupings
This list entry does not comprise part of an Asset Grouping. Asset Groupings are not part of the official record but are added later for information.
List entry Description
Summary of Building
Legacy Record - This information may be included in the List Entry Details.
Reasons for Designation
Legacy Record - This information may be included in the List Entry Details.
Legacy Record - This information may be included in the List Entry Details.
NY 33 SE MUNGRISDALE Low Mill
3/18 Low Mill Farmhouse and adjoining barn/byres
Farmhouse and adjoining barn/byres. Dated and inscribed over rear entrance E.G. M.G. 1611 T.G. (Greenhow family) with C20 alterations. Painted roughcast walls under C20 greenslate roof and brick chimney stack. 2 storeys, 4 bays with single-bay byre to left under common roof; right-angled 2-storey, single-bay extension to rear and right-angled 2-bay barn to rear, forming overall U-shape. Blocked entrance and ground floor chamfered-surround windows with stone mullions removed, all under continuous hoodmould. Upper-floor windows are larger but have chamfered surrounds. C20 door and windows in former byre to left. Rear entrance has Tudor-arched chamfered surround with inscribed frieze under hoodmould. Rear extension has original small chamfered-surround windows. Barn has chamfered-surround entrances and loft and C20 window. Interior of rear door has drawbar tunnel with drawbar stilt used. All interior doorways have chamfered stone surrounds under Tudor arches. Stone-arched inglenook with heck partition. Beamed ceilings. An early house for this area with an unaltered interior.
Listing NGR: NY3683732442
Selected Sources
National Grid Reference: NY 36837 32442
The above map is for quick reference purposes only and may not be to scale. For a copy of the full scale map, please see the attached PDF - 1319016 .pdf
The PDF will be generated from our live systems and may take a few minutes to download depending on how busy our servers are. We apologise for this delay.
This copy shows the entry on 25-Sep-2017 at 02:25:24.
End of official listing


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We are a working cover band. We have a great following and play in Bucks County,N.E Phila.We have our own studio and we rehearse weekly to add songs and keep the set list fresh. We are currently seeking a keyboard player . Our friend is leaving to devote more time to teaching music. If you are versatile on the keys and can add horns ,ect . We would love to hear from you. We are based in Levittown Pa. We have bookings till 2014 so if you want to work contact me at cpannulla.Please make the title PixieDix.
- Screen name:
- Pixie Dix
- Member since:
- Jun 20 2011
- Active over 1 month ago
- Level of commitment:
- Very Committed
- Years together:
- 3
- Gigs played:
- Over 100
- Tend to practice:
- 1 time per week
- Available to gig:
- 1 night a week
- Age:
- 61 years
We play a great mix of dance,funk,pop,rock,reggae.
Members Of Band
Sharon,Kevin,Carmen,Joe,Dave.Andrew. We have many years exp between us.
We play out so between us we have too much to list.


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Here is another sneak peak from the new Fall Winter catalog from Stampin' Up! This set is called Flight of the Butterfly. It's a must have for me. I LOVE Butterflies!
Monday, August 4, 2008
Sneak Peak
Posted by Ilina Crouse at Monday, August 04, 2008
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Places I have been to
- View my profile
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- Travel Info at TripAdvisor


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Thomas (Tom) J. Downey
Senior Vice President,
The Boeing Company
Tom Downey is senior vice president of Communications for The Boeing Company, the world's largest aerospace company. He is a member of the company's Executive Council. Named to the position in December 2006, Downey is responsible for development and implementation of the company's global communications activities, which include media relations, brand development and management, advertising, in-house creative services, and executive and employee communications.
Prior to this assignment, Downey, 53, led communications for Boeing Commercial Airplanes in Seattle, Wash., overseeing public relations during a period of dramatic industry downturn, multiple labor contract negotiations and a transformation of the Boeing product line -- including the successful launches of the 787 Dreamliner and the 747-8 airplane families.
Before joining Commercial Airplanes in May 2002, Downey led companywide internal and executive communications at the corporate office in Chicago and Seattle. In that position, he oversaw the revamping of the company's employee communications with new digital and print publications.
Before joining the corporate staff in September 1999, Downey led Communications and Community Relations for the company's Military Aircraft and Missile Systems unit, based in St. Louis. In this position he was responsible for the public relations functions of the tactical aircraft, helicopter, military transport and missile systems division of the company.
Downey joined the company in 1986 as a writer on the company's fighter aircraft programs in St. Louis. In 1991, Downey began a five-year assignment in Washington, D.C., where he held a variety of communications and business development positions. He also worked on Capitol Hill as a Brookings Institution Congressional Fellow.
In April 1996, Downey was named director of Communications for Douglas Aircraft Company in Long Beach, Calif. He returned to St. Louis in March 1997 to lead communications for the military unit. Downey is a graduate of Saint Louis University and holds a bachelor's degree in English, and a creative and professional writing certificate. He served as a public affairs officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve and is a past president of the Boeing Employees Community Fund.
Downey was born in Middletown, Ohio. He is married with five children and resides in the Chicago area.


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New tools for people who are bored by those long, rambling messages on Twitter.
I read an article about how young people no longer e-mail, preferring to text to each other short little messages understandable only by those who text short little messages to each other. The burden of formulating sentences seems to be too much for them. This rang true. Several times over the past year I've sent e-mail to friends or colleagues and received nothing in reply for days because the recipients no longer stayed in touch with e-mail. "You should have texted me," they will say.
Text messaging isn't the only way people move teeny-weeny little ideas around now, either. I was informed not long ago by a hipster banker that blogs are out, replaced by Twitter. Where in years past a person might work out a complicated thought in, say, 150 words, now they will simply tweet it. "Best of times. Worst of times. More to folo," might have been all we needed to enjoy A Tale of 2 Cities. Likewise, many business announcements are no longer made by press conference or news release. "Buying Romania," a tweet from Sergey and Larry might say. Who needs more?
The opportunities here are as clear as the trends, for those who can figure out how to serve the public's dwindling attention span. Ever shorter and more perfunctory communications. Itty-bitty sentences. Without verbs. Lots of drpped vwls. And applications for people who want their information in minuscule packages, lacking the appetite for anything heavier than a couple of bytes between meals.
Within a year or two Twitter and text will be too prolix for the truly evolved. The apps that drive the market will shrink human expression down to a nub that can be carried on a touchscreen implement no bigger than a slice of toast. A small slice. Probably a crouton. Here are some apps, applets, and sub-appletines that I am patenting for future use:
QBL® It's pronounced Quibble. You have 40 characters to complain about something. "Muffin insufficiently toasted at Mr. Muffin's on Main" is too long.
BBL® It's pronounced Bibble, as in bibulous, which means prone to drink. Users have 30 characters or fewer to convey to their "friends" where they are having cocktails that night and, for 99¢ a month more than the basic rate, preorder beverages at certain BBLicious® establishments. Sponsorship opportunities are endless, since selling principles for alcoholic beverages seldom need more than a word or two to hit home. "Have one. Have fun. Have two? Woo-hoo." Right?
BABL® Pronounced Babble, it provides legal advice to the needy in fewer than 25 characters. In complex situations, like divorce settlements, the full load may be necessary, as in "Cheaters never win, Flynn," while in others a simple "Cop a plea, Lee" may be all that's required.
BLRT® You have 20 characters to Blurt something. "Make the deal! Pronto!" for instance, or "I love you, man!"
HRT® When you're hurt by a bad employee or a funky investment manager, you have 15 characters to express your injury. Who could fail to understand "I'm mad @U"?
N/VSTR® This service provides financial advice in 20 characters or less. "Buy low, sell high." That kind of thing. Those who wish more may punch through a pay wall for enhanced access to experts who will provide up to 60 characters of information.
In the future, it is possible that if you can't express a thought in a single character, it's not going to get heard. The letter "h" will be accepted as the universal symbol for the word "hi," for example, just as "k" has come to replace "Yes, I'd love to have dinner with you -- I've been missing you and looking forward to spending some time with you after several weeks of really hard work where we've had no time to be together." Other letters of the alphabet will be quickly assigned similar duties, and if you don't like the idea, I've got a letter for you that can't be printed in this magazine.
So wadja think? Lemme know. But pls. Keep it brf.


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Nordstrom 2Q Profit Drops 27% But Raises Full-Year View (WSJ)
"Nordstrom Inc.'s fiscal second-quarter profit decreased 27 percent as the high-end clothing retailer reported lower same-store sales. But disciplined inventory and expense management helped the company report results in line with Wall Street's expectations, and Nordstrom became slightly less downbeat about the same-store sales decline this year."
Escada Denies Herz Brothers Turnaround Coup as Company Crumbles (Bloomberg)
"Billionaire brothers Wolfgang and Michael Herz learned the hard way today that investment prowess doesn't necessarily run in the family. The brothers, heirs to the fortune of Hamburg coffee retailer Tchibo Holding AG, saw their investment in fashion house Escada AG crumble to little over 3 million euros ($4.3 million) from about 75 million euros in mid-2008."
American Apparel Q2 beats St, cuts 2009 sales view (Reuters)
"American Apparel Inc posted a second-quarter profit that beat market expectations, but said it might post a full-year loss as the clothing retailer sees lower sales."
What is Harrods' secret? (Retail Week)
"Iconic department store Harrods provided a rare glimpse of hope in retail as it recorded a 9 percent uplift in sales in its full year accounts to £752m. It seems Harrods' clientele are not letting the recession stop them splashing the cash."
Even creative minds need a head for business (Retail Week)
"Fashion Fringe at Covent Garden is helping new designers learn about the world of retail and supply chain - an area many know little about."


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Rs. 260+ shipping charges
Rs. 260+ shipping charges
Yes it's another love story in the town, yet not like anything else. It's about a guy and girl just mad in love, while their elementary phase of love all along with a marriage on the way. Also with some music all this while and the best of emotions, feelings and romance between them.
It's a serendipitous flow of love and events, when they have to deal with all their relatives around, all the kids who were on their back and everything and everyone who came in between. So with the kind of love that we see around these days, it's good to see how these two come out of it and if they succeed with something like it? Will they be able to resist themselves and their love in front of everybody else or would they proclaim it to everybody and make it a most memorable trip, the trip to Manali. This happens to be the most important part and also where the pain comes in, within their lives and his eyes.
What happens in Manali?
What do they go through?
Do their efforts go in vain?
Does god have something else in his mind for the two or would it be a hand
from above?
Ishan Sharma is a 24 year old Delhi-ite and an Engineering dropout whose areas of interests are literature, Fiction, Conspiracy theories and spiritual books. Situation, places, people and everything around him compelled him to write and that's how he came up with stories that he wish could happen in real life. He firmly believes that one should quit his job, buy a ticket, fall in love and never return. He is an aspiring entrepreneur, working in a BPO firm recently and has an experience of about 23 years of life, fun and his parts of ups and downs, which eventually brought out a writer within him too.


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Get £110 Off Gill Hooded Pro Softshell Jacket
NewsGeneral Boating NewsTuesday 10 February 2015
For a Limited Time Only Mailspeed Marine are offering you £110 off the Gill Hooded Pro Softshell Jacket.
The Gill Pro Softshell jacket is a blend of softshell comfort and waterproof protection, meaning that it is perfect for inshore sailing. The waterproof, breathable and seam-sealed fabric features a water repellent face with a soft, brushed interior for warmth and protection. The jacket also features a 2 way volume adjustment hood for an improved fit, comfort and protection.
This Gill Softshell jacket Features 1 Dot™ technology, meaning that the softshell fabric is both waterproof and at the same time, incredibly breathable. Water and perspiration are quickly wicked away with minimal fuss, leaving you cool and comfortable in even the harshest of marine environments.
You can get the Gill Pro Softshell jacket for only £64.99 for a limited time on Mailspeed Marine, that's a saving of £110! To take advantage of this fantastic offer, click here now as it won't be around for long!


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Girsan MC1911S thoughts
I just got this model and am impressed with the gun minus the grip screws and sights trouble.
I took it to a FFL friend the other day and he immediately bad mouthed the gun for being from Turkey. He challenged me to a shoot out betting his Kimber against my Girsan. I told him I wouldn't put mine up against his junk:) Of course Kimbers are not junk but I felt he deserved it. He quickly went out back and shot 5 shots at a 3" target with his kimber and hit it once at 30yds. I offered him mine to try and he smirked then quickly fired 2 rds hitting the target both times :) Needless to say he's been grumpy since the other day.
Lmao yeah like the saying goes "dont knock it til you have tried it" Its a good gun aside from the obvious faults you and most of us that have them have found out by trying to modify them.
So what's the point? I'd buy a Girsan before I'd own a Kimber.....hell, for the money I could buy two or three Girsan's.
Rub that in his face. http://i695.photobucket.com/albums/v...ons/cowboy.gif
Cane bout time you pipe up and say something seems like you havent said anything in a few weeks. :D
Buds has a video they love'm... of course they sell'm too:D Heres a link, go to the bottom of the link page watch video.
I think I'll do a video of me replacing the bushings. The head on the girsan screws is too big for standard grips as most of you know. The threads are M3 on the girsan
I ordered the standard .236 x 60 tap from midway and some standard bushings and screws from another source.
Either I'll fix it or ruin it. While I'm waiting for the bushings... I'll have to find out which bit to use before the tap. I think midway said 7/32" was needed but I need to verify that. I'll update either with video or pics.
Ok got a question for yall, I am fixin to have my slide on my Girsan milled to Novak specs and wanted to know what would be the best way to treat the milled surface back towards the hammer that is going to be covered by the rear sight? I dont want this area to rust on me.
|All times are GMT. The time now is 01:03 AM.
Copyright ©2000 - 2017, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.


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Cannot regulate air traffic over Tirumala - Centre - Tv9
Fri, Jun 17, 2016, 03:22 PM
The Centre has expressed its helplessness declaring no flying zone over Tirumala .Ministry of civil aviation said that it is very difficult to regulate air traffic over the holy zone. This issue has turned controversial. On the other hand, Tirumala devotees have come up staging protest over non implementation of 'No Flying Zone' issue.Listen, what the priests have to say in this regard.


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Pelican 1050 Micro Case w/Clear Case - BlueItem#: YYPT-PLO1050026100 | Model#: 1050-026-100
Currently Out Of Stock!
You May Consider This Alternative
Pelican 1050 Micro Case w/Clear Case - B Product Details
Case Color: Blue w/Clear Lid
Interior Dimensions: 6.31" x 3.68" x 2.75"
- Great for rugged sports
- Not for swimming or submerging
- Water resistant, crushproof, and dust proof
- Easy open latch
- Carabiner
- Rubber liner for extra protection doubles as o-ring seal
- Automatic Pressure Equalization Valve - balances interior pressure, keeps water out
- Stainless steel hardware
- Lifetime Guarantee of Excellence
Color: Blue
Foam: NOT SPECIFIED
Lockable: NOT SPECIFIED
Color: Blue
Foam: NOT SPECIFIED
Lockable: NOT SPECIFIED
Recommended Items
Manufactured by: Pelican Products
Warranty provided by: Pelican Products
UPC No: 019428082772
Mfg Part No: 1050-026-100
Box Size:
( Length:0, Width:0, Depth:0)
Shipping Weight: 0.8000 pound(s)
Click here for full warranty and support information
- Pelican Products logos are registered trademarks of Pelican Products. All others trademarks and copyrights mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners.


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MACCRAY to appeal phased end to four-day week
CLARA CITY — MACCRAY is planning to appeal a decision by the Commissioner of Education to phase out its four-day class schedule.
The Department of Education approved a four-day week in MACCRAY for 2014-15 "as a transition year back to a traditional five-day calendar beginning in 2015-16,'' Dr. Brenda Cassellius, commissioner of education, stated in a letter to the district dated May 6.
"Very disappointed,'' said MACCRAY's interim Superintendent Loren Hacker of reaction to the decision.
The district had applied for a three-year continuance of the four-day schedule.
MACCRAY was one of the first districts in the state to institute a four-day week schedule beginning in the 2008-09 school year.
It was initially proposed for its economic savings.
The four-day week has produced the savings as projected, but it's the other advantages that led the district to apply for a three-year continuance, according to Hacker.
See tomorrow's print edition for more.


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Review: Dead Island
The story is based in the beautiful Palms Resort in the fictional location of Banoi. It use to be all sun, sandy beaches and hot women in bikini's… well they are still hot if you like your girls dead with broken arms/legs with blood smothering them. Before the beginning of the game you can choose from 1 of four characters.
- Xian Mei, an employee at the Royal Palms Resort. Born and raised in China, she chose an occupation that allowed her to leave her country of birth in order to experience different people and cultures. She is a fast learner, intelligent, and quick on her feet. Having just arrived at Banoi Island, Xian Mei was responsible for myriad menial tasks at the hotel, before starting work as a receptionist. This opportunity to meet and greet all the different nationalities that visited the hotel was ideal for Xian Mei, as it provided a perfect source of inspiration for her dreams of travelling the globe.
- Sam B, a one-hit wonder rap star. He was booked by the Royal Palms Resort to perform his well known song "Who Do You Voodoo?" at a high profile hotel party. He gladly took the chance to play this gig. Once strong, self-confident and proud, Sam B has had a troubled past and a history of drug and alcohol abuse, as his private life became caught in a haze of fake friends and bad advisers.
- Logan, a former NFL star, spoiled by life and successful in every possible way. Logan's ego finally put an end to his bright future. Taking part in a reckless street race with tragic consequences, Logan not only killed a young woman – his unfortunate passenger – he also fractured his knee, putting an end to his sports career. His fall from stardom inevitably followed and he plunged swiftly into a life of bitterness and despair. In an attempt to get away from the demons hunting him, he gladly takes the chance to experience the beauties and wonders of Banoi Island.
- Purna is a former officer of the Sydney Police department. After losing her career when she killed a child molester who could not be prosecuted because of his wealth and connections, Purna then turned to working as a bodyguard for VIPs in dangerous places all over the world. She is hired not just for her skills but her looks as wealthy men do not mind showing up with Purna on their arm.
The gameplay is Dead Island's strongest element along with a solid design. The gameplay has a lot to offer for people who are fan of FPS or survival horrors, if your not a big fan of FPS but have played Borderlands and enjoyed the XP system well… Dead Island implements the XP system in the game. Every time you do a quest or kill a zombie in a certain fashion you will earn XP that will help you level up and allow you to pick up more weapons and upgrade/create different types of weapons. As creating weapons go it is similar to Dead Rising as you can find different fact files that unlock more creatable weapons or completing quests will also unlock more weapons for you to create. This said even though Dead Rising did it first Dead Island makes it a little different and a bit harder in a way. The items you need you will come across rarely and will take a knowledge of locations to understand where certain items are. It is still fun and has a new take on what Dead Rising already did. The RPG element is strong in the game and is a great combination with the survival horror genre and really does make Dead Island stand out amongst other zombie titles. The constant solid 60fps on the X360/PS3 version is great especially since I came across no online lag and no loading screens, other than when you load your data. It is shockingly unexpected for a Xbox 360 title to not have any loading screens on such a huge open world map, oh before I forget to mention… the island is huge and when I say huge I mean huge. There are a lot of areas to unlock and travel too and it all helps with the use of a car. This said there are some areas that are restricted which does break away from the "open world" vibe. If you choose to walk in an area where you are restricted you get sent back to the safe house. It is frustrating but it doesn't really effect the size of it to much, just expect not being able to swim across the ocean.
If your tired of running around location to location then your in luck as the game has a fast travel system that allows you to travel between safehouses. It really does speed up the game and saves you having to either drive across different areas or be brave and go on foot.
The driving in the game is a great added feature but could do with some improvements, during playing online with an american friend we cam across a glitch. The glitch was a bit odd but when we tried to help a survivor to the safe house the car was getting pushed to one side like the steering wheel was locking up and just causing us to drive a bit diagonal. It eventually fixed it self up and this could just be one of the early bugs in the game that will probably later be repaired. It doesn't effect the gameplay to much and cruising around the Dead Island squashing Zombies couldn't be more fun. If you seen Zombieland where Woody Harrellson knocks over the Zombie snacking on a tasty humans flesh then you will love it. As you proceed more of the quests and explore the island you will start to come across more weapons and ID cards. ID cards are the games form of collectibles, there are 60 to collect and once collect an achievement will unlock. Guns are hard to find, it took me about 7 hours to randomly come across a weapon with some new online friends.
The guns aiming is very good and has been well made, the guns seem very accurate and look realistic to their real life counterparts just remember ammo is hard to come across so make sure every shot counts.
Throughout the game you will come across multiple different types of zombies as you scour the island. The ones you want to watch out for is the Thugs early on was they take a lot of hits and can kill you in a few. The good thing what the game does is it allows you to see what level the zombies are before you choose to attack them.
Just before I go onto the Design section of this review I wanted to mention about the Menu system in the game. The game will automatically allocate you 3 primary weapons along with your bare fists. If you wish to add another 2 weapons to your arsenal you easily can by clicking the "back" or "select" button on your controller. You can also unlock another two slots as you progress through the game. The menu system is actually very good, it may be a bit annoying that you have to add another two weapons to your primary 3 but it's not to much of an issue, its very easy to do.
It's hard to find a title these days that use a full solid four player co-op campaign, I know a lot of people have been comparing this to Left 4 Dead but… I don't see the similarities other than the obvious. Left 4 Dead to me is a "comical" survival horror with hardly any character development or story line, just a solid 4 player shooter than lets you go around short campaigns killing Zombies. Now don't get me wrong I love Left 4 Dead but after playing Dead Island for an hour I already had a favourite. Dead Island multiplayer is a great addition to the game and really does make the playing experience a better one. You can join online matches with people on the same chapter as you or people who are further in the game than you. It does warn you each time however about "spoilers" if your not on the same chapter. If people decide to join your game it won't effect your quests at all and actually if a person joins your game and does a quest you need to do but you both wish to just explore other parts of the island the quest can actually be still completed and you will still receive the XP. I'm sure however the majority of people who join will want to stick together and do the quests together as their are achievements and challenges to complete. With the no loading screens online, no lag and solid frame-rate the online experience is great and probably one of the best I have played for a long time.
The design is where Dead Island also stands strong the characters are very well designed, especially the zombies and lady's in bikini's. There are a lot of well designed buildings as well as the cars look crisp. The probably best looking things in the game is the weapons and the water, there are some very nice effects of the sun beating down on the cool calm sea. It's a shame you can't just sit down on the beach and catch a tan before getting attacked. After chilling on the beaches and killing some good looking zombies you may start to notice a few issues with the survivors. I have been playing the game for about 12 hours now and have ended up speaking to a lot of characters. During this I started to notice some minor errors, one being the lip syncing for some of the characters. The majority of the characters are fine, mainly the main characters but some of the survivors you come across have terrible lip syncing. I am not sure if it is just a bug in the version I have before any patches but it is a big sloppy and seems a bit lazy. There is also some texture loading issues, this is pretty much understandable however because of the no loading screen's other than the loading screen before the game starts up. The textures do look a little bit rough at times but it doesn't look to ugly. It isn't a major flaw however as everything else looks really nice and is probably the best looking Zombie game out there.
The soundtrack in the game is brilliant, the right music sets the mood perfectly depending on what just happened in the game/cut scenes. When you go to the safe house calm ominous music plays relating to how the scared and lost the characters are feeling. The tones are there and fits perfect within the game. The voice overs however are 50/50 there are some really good voice overs on the main characters but a lot characters on the side quests sound a bit rubbish. There is one mission you come across early on called "Toy Story" where you have to collect a bear for one of the "Adult" survivors. It makes me wonder how stupid this character is as all she cares about is getting her teddy bear back in a situation like this? Sure well just send the 4 immune people to slaughter more Zombies to get your teddy bear back. I found her character the most annoying I have come across as it is a very pointless mission and character, this alone made me wonder about the voice acting. Other than that one issue that really annoyed me the soundtrack is brilliant and sound effects are very realistic especially on the weapons and when you hit/run over the zombies.
Overall – 4.5
Dead Island is probably the best action role playing game I have played. The game uses a lot of other games features and makes them unique and improves them just a bit more. Dead Island is defiantly a unique multiplayer Zombie title and really does have a deep solid storyline and gameplay elements. There is a lot to do in the game lasting up to 25+hours the game is great value for your money. There are a few minor errors that stops this game getting a 5/5 which is a shame but overall is a great package. Online gaming with 3 other players with no lag and no noticeable loading screens? Killing zombies couldn't get better…


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Read a Medicare fee schedule by first accessing the version appropriate for the type of service, notes Noridian Healthcare Solutions. Separate fee schedules are available for physicians, clinical laboratories, ambulance, ambulatory surgery centers and radiopharmaceuticals. Each fee schedule is a comprehensive listing of fee maximums that Medicare pays physicians, other health care providers or suppliers as reimbursement on a fee-for-service basis.Continue Reading
The current year's Medicare Part B Physician Fee Schedule is available for download through Medicare Administrative Contractors or by using the online lookup tool provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, notes Noridian Healthcare Solutions. The physician fee schedule contains the associated relative value units, status indicator and various payment policy indicators for payment adjustment for more than 10,000 physician services and their associated HCPCS codes, reports CMS.
Reading the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule requires a key to the file's column headings, explains Wisconsin Physicians Service. Columns indicate various limiting charges, modifiers, and the amount of reimbursement for participating and non-participating providers, Accurate reading of the fee schedule also requires knowing the appropriate geographic practice cost index for the location where the service is provided, since this index is applied in the calculation of fee schedule payment amounts, according to CMS.Learn more about Health Insurance