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Institute for War and Peace Reporting | Giving Voice, Driving Change
New Fears Over Afghan Election Run-Off
Abdullah Abdullah (left) and Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai. (Photos: US embassy Kabul/Flickr)
Afghan analysts warn that the second round of voting to decide the presidential contest is likely to face a fresh series of challenges.
In preliminary results announced on April 26 by Afghanistan's Independent Election Commission (IEC), former foreign minister Abdullah Abdullah came first with 44.9 per cent of the vote, and ex-World Bank economist Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai was in second place with 31.5 per cent.
The nearest other candidate, Zalmai Rasul – another former foreign minister – finished a distant third with 11.5 per cent.
Final results will be announced on May 14 after suspect votes are investigated, but no candidate is predicted to be able to secure more than 50 per cent of the vote.
According to Afghan law, a run-off must be held within two weeks of the final results being announced. The IEC has already begun preparing for this second round, with a tentative date of May 28.
The April 5 polls were hailed as an historic success, with nearly seven million of the country's 12 million eligible voters turning out on election day. Numbers were so high that polling stations in some areas ran out of ballot papers.
There were relatively few incidents of violence around the country, and the Afghan security forces were praised for their efforts to ensure calm as the country went to the polls. (See Euphoria at Afghan Poll Security Success.)
However, experts fear that the tight security and high turnout might not be replicated in the second round. They also note a clear ethnic dimension to the run-off, with Abdullah perceived as Tajik and Ashraf Ghani a Pashtun.
The last presidential election in 2009 were marred by fraud claims. They ended in a run-off in which the incumbent Hamed Karzai was pitted against Abdullah, who withdrew before the vote was held saying he did not trust the validity of the process.
Fazel Rahman Oria, a member of Abdullah's team, told IWPR that once again, there were concerns about the transparency of the vote and the actions of both the IEC and the Electoral Complaints Commission (ECC).
"We do not agree with the announcement of these [preliminary] results," he said. "Abdullah was the winner in the first round. We have filed our complaints and the ECC should respond to us and to the public."
Oria added that if the campaign team's objections were upheld, Abdullah would emerge with an outright majority.
"A number of domestic and foreign mafia circles are trying to take the elections to a second round by violating the country's laws, particularly electoral law," he claimed, adding that Abdullah was certain to win a second round if it went ahead.
"Those who trample on the law, eliminate transparency from the elections, or make efforts to favour a specific candidate will have to take responsibility for their actions before the people in future," Oria concluded.
Ashraf Ghani dismissed these claims at a press conference on April 27, adding that he was not interested in negotiating a deal and would fight a second round.
"Insisting that there is a victor in the first round amounts to trampling on the law, because it is obvious that the first round had no winner," he told reporters, while reserving a measure of criticism for the IEC.
"The commission should explain the shortage of ballot papers at some polling stations, as well as the [preliminary results] announcement that did not differentiate between clean and unclean votes," he said.
To avoid further allegations of corruption, Ghani called on the IEC to ensure that ballot papers were distributed to all polling stations, and suggested photographing each voter.
"The government and the commission should dismiss those who were involved in fraud as soon as possible, otherwise the second round will again fall victim to fraud and violations," he concluded.
Despite the success of the first round of voting, political analyst Abdul Ghafur Lewal warned that a run-off "comes with many problems".
Lewal said that the Tajik-Pashtun divide in the run-off risked damaging hard-won Afghan national unity and fuelling ethnic divisions.
"If the winner in the second round, who will become the future president, does not appoint specialists and experts in equal measure from the losing team's ethnic group to ensure national participation, the gulf between the people and the government will widen more than it did during the 13-year term of Hamed Karzai, and this will cause many social problems," he continued.
Lewal also highlighted the security challenges of this new round of voting, arguing that having failed to massively disrupt the April 5 vote, the Taleban would now renew their efforts.
"Since the weather is getting milder and the government's armed opponents are more active in warmer areas, it is going to be dangerous for those who participate," he said.
An additional factor, he argued, was interference by foreign intelligence agencies, each of which had its favoured candidate. Their influence had been less noticeable in the first round, in which eight candidates competed, but the narrower field now made the stakes higher.
"I am confident that regional countries – Pakistan, Iran, Russia and India – supported specific candidates in the first round, and they will do the same in the second," he said.
The April 5 elections were for both presidential and provincial council candidates, and this time, the turnout might be lower and the opportunities for fraud greater, Lewal said.
"The number of observers will be fewer in this round, because the provincial council observers won't be there. Government officials, including provincial governors, police chiefs and the like will use nationalist sentiment to interfere in the electoral process," he said.
Others accuse Karzai of engineering a second round in an attempt to guarantee continuing influence over Afghan politics for himself. The Afghan constitution bars him from seeking a third term.
Political analyst Wahid Mozhda said the wide field of candidates in the first round was due to a Karzai strategy to divide the vote and ensure a run-off.
"Karzai's goal behind setting up sham contenders was so that none of the candidates would win. He wants a coalition government to be created so that there will be a safe place for him and his brothers as part of it, and so that they will somehow have a part in the future government," he said.
Mozhda added that the Americans also saw Karzai as a valuable asset due to his experience over the last 13 years.
"As far as I know, efforts are being made behind the scene to create a coalition government," he added.
Karzai's office has repeatedly denied accusations of interference, insisting that the president wants a transparent process and has no preferred candidate.
Ordinary people seemed unenthusiastic at the prospect of going to the polls again.
University student Sayed Mansur claimed that interference by Iran and Pakistan had been clear in the electoral process.
"I thought our people had reached a level of political maturity, but the votes that went to warlords changed my mind," he said. "People still aren't thinking of the national interest…The election was a laboratory experience for Western countries, too. They will develop their future plans for the country after assessing the Afghan people's political understanding and demands."
Kabul resident Shamsuddin, 40, said he now regretted voting in the first round.
"I voted enthusiastically, hoping that power would be transferred from the corrupt Karzai to a good person, but we saw there was a lot of fraud. I am very disappointed. I will not go to the ballot box again. The issue is now ethnic. No one cares about the country or the people," he said. "Afghans still haven't learned – they don't know who their friend is and who their enemy is. The same warlords will come to power again, and they will have a right to do whatever they want to do to the people, because the people have supported them themselves."
Hafizullah Gardesh is IWPR's Afghanistan editor. Mina Habib is an IWPR-trained journalist in Kabul.
[Correction: changing tentative election date to May 28. Apologies]
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subset: commoncrawl


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Plz send complete guideline about treatment of venous thromboembism.
The New ACCP Guidelines on Antithrombotic Therapy Have Arrived
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Every few years since 1986, the American College of Chest Physicians has published practice guidelines on antithrombotic therapy and prevention of thrombosis; many clinicians regard these guidelines as the "gold standard" in the field. The ninth edition has just been published as a supplement to the February 2012 issue of Chest.
The guidelines now consist of 24 articles and more than 800 pages. The Executive Summary, an introduction, and a methodology article are available in print and are freely accessible electronically; the rest of the articles are available only electronically and access is limited to subscribers only. The guidelines include recommendations on oral and parenteral anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs, prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism, perioperative management of antithrombotic therapy, and antithrombotic therapies for cardiovascular diseases.


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Posted: Tuesday, August 8, 2017 3:02 PM
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Greek Yogurt Ranch
I made these for my fiances grandparents when they came to see our new place this past weekend. My favorite part was the Greek yogurt ranch dip.
It has the same creamy ranch taste as a sour cream base, but zero fat and more protein. Love it.
I also love the little brussels leaves that break away from the sprout and get super crunchy like a potato chip when you bake them. I scavenge for those before serving!
Salt these sprouts generously and make sure they have a thin coating of olive oil. I can't believe I used to hate brussels sprouts when I was a kid, what was I thinking?
Shopping List (Serves 4-6)1 mesh bag fresh brussels sprouts — from produce section
1/4 cup olive oil
1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch powder
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 cup Greek yogurt (I used fat free)
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Quarter your sprouts and coat them in olive oil, place them on a thin cookie sheet and sprinkle generously with salt. Bake for about 15-25 minutes. Look for those crunchy leaves to test if they are done.
2. Mix yogurt with about 1 tablespoon of ranch powder and lemon juice. Taste test, add more ranch if you like.
Serve while sprouts are still hot.
18 Responses to "Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Greek Yogurt Ranch"
I have never ever had brussels sprouts. They look … maybe OK?
I might have to try some.
I have a love/hate relationship with brussel sprouts. I love them based on the way they are cooked–and usually in a fine restaurant. I'm pretty certain that I would love this recipe, and I'm planning to try it. Thanks for the idea!
This looks SO good and I don't even know if I like brussel sprouts.
Alright Michelle, it's been decided that I'm just moving in with you. You keep making all of these fantastic veggie recipes that I just go and remake. Let's save some time and you can make them for all of us 🙂 Looks fantastic….again!
This is such a clever idea. I love brussels. I know they get little recognition, but they are super tasty and healthy. I'm going to try this recipe. Thanks!
Love brussels sprouts…and I do the same dip for carrots! Tastes exactly the same.
I love a good brussels sprout! The dip is such a brilliant idea.~Megan
Those crunchy leaves sure do look tasty! 🙂
I detested brussels sprouts until a few years ago! And these sound even better with your healthy ranch dip!
Now that's a great way to eat them!
This looks amazing! I can't wait to try. 🙂
yum, making them tomorrow.
hey doll! i saw you over on a friends page and wanted to say i love your blog!
am now your newest follower!
would be delighted if you could follow back ?
hugs, xo!
I'm going to the grocery tomorrow and making this!! I'm excited!! FB me if you have tips Michelle…. I can't cook anything besides a grilled cheese. 😀
Hello from Norway:)
I want food now 🙂 have a great weekend !
Had these this past weekend at my sister's house when my niece cooked a big platter of them for everyone!! Since we are all fiends for brussels, it is a good thing she made such a huge platter! The dip was a refreshing change.
I am going to make this recipe this week-they look sodelicious.
Thank you
Just made these the other night. They are absolutely delicious, and I think I have found my new favorite way to make brussels sprouts! So easy too!


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I ran across a great article in The Chronicle of Higher Education where the author discusses the practical side of grammar.
Rachel Toor, the author, starts out discussing the confusing nature of sentence structure instruction -- things that we all learn in grade school but most of us forget. "Once someone starts talking about verb moods, dangling whosits, and misplaced whatsits, I squirm. When I try to struggle through their prose explanations, my brain hurts. I've learned enough to be able to explain basic things to my students about common writing mistakes, but I can't get technical. I refer to words ending with "ing" as "ing words." (I know that they can be gerunds or participles, and that there's a difference.) When I tell students that adverbs are not their friends, I explain I mean words with "-ly" on their tail. (I know different kinds of adverbs and adverbial phrases are essential, and they don't all end in "-ly." Whatever.)"
It wasn't until I started teaching Scholarly Writing that I gave myself a crash-course in the things I had forgotten. I instruct on misplaced modifiers, nominalizations, present participles, etc..., and these are not hard-to-understand concepts. However, as soon as the students heard these terms, their eyes seemed to glaze over, and they miss the point of the grammar instruction -- "[w]e need to scrub dirty, flaccid bits from our sentences if we want to be read."
So, Rachel Toor has come up with a more practical way of weeding these things out of her manuscripts.
"Nominalization, in case you weren't aware, turns verbs into fuzzy nouns. 'Investigate' morphs into 'investigation'; 'applicable' dresses up as 'applicability.' In order to weed them out I've learned a trick. I scan my manuscripts for words that end in -tion, -ism, -ty, -ment, -ness, -ance, and -ence. Then I grab a more muscular verb and slip in a concrete noun (when it makes the sentence better)."
She also looks for unnecessary words in a similar practical manner. "When Strunk and White urge me to 'omit needless words,' I appreciate the reminder and use the tools in my little bag of tricks to identify and delete those words, when appropriate. How many unnecessary uses of 'this,' 'that,' and 'there' can I lose? I won't say removing them forces you into less passive constructions—because I would be taken to task for not knowing what a passive construction is. But they often drag down prose. So in my merry way, I go on search-and-destroy missions for the forms of 'to be.' Write with strong nouns and verbs, say Strunk and White. I say, CNTL+F the incarnations of 'to be' and kick the suckers to the curb (when it makes the sentence better)."
This is a great way to go about making a manuscript stronger and more readable. Forget the proper nomenclature of sentence structure. Know what kinds of words to remove or reformulate and read specifically for that purpose when editing.
I'd also like to point out that Ms. Toor is also a fan of Strunk & White's Elements of Style and George Orwell's essay, "Politics and the English Language."


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DS has been co sleeping and breastfeeding since birth. Hes almost daytime weaned himself already. He will be two next month. DH and I have decided to TTC so we thought it would be good to get DS in his own bed and that also means to night time wean. Tonight is the second night of him sleeping in his own bed and he did so well. There was no temper tantrum like last night, just a bit of whining and he was asleep within 10 minutes, he didn't even drink his sippy, just went straight to sleep holding my hand. I'm so proud of him but I'm so sad. :( He hasn't breastfed for 12 hours now too. I know he's old enough for both these things but I feel like now he's not my baby anymore. :( I know that once I'm pregnant and we have another baby I'll be glad he's in his own bed but right now I'm just...
Emotional rant done. :(
Aww I would be sad too! Addie will also be 2 next month. She os still Co sleeping and breastfeeding on demand. Day and night. Baby boy is due August 5th. Im terrified of how she will react when she has to share her mommy, boobies and bed. Lol. I planned to wean her, ot thought she would self wean after my supply dropped, but she still breastfeeds at least 8-10 times a day! I think yiu made a good decision though. I wish I had at least tried to wean her. It'll be chaos here after August. Lol. Good luck ttc! :)

Quoting BRowell:"
Quoting


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Published: June 20, 2011 at 12:36 PMArticles like these are the reason I love coming back to this site. Some truly great analysis.
Published: June 20, 2011 at 12:50 PMGreat article. One thing, I don't mind paying the high prices AS LONG as it's reinvested back into the parks. Keep giving me new attractions to have me come back and see me $ working.
Published: June 20, 2011 at 12:51 PMThe affordability of Universal's AP has convinced me to skip Disney. While I love the Disney parks, the initial investment is so great that it's not an option. Yes, it is insanely cheap to add a few days but when my vacation costs $800 and $900 for a lesser hotel, for the same time period... I'm going to choose Universal hands down. I do agree that Disney has a hold over the masses though. Once I graduate college and have a more stable salary I may think differently.
I feel like for educated ticket buyers Universals price hike will convince people to buy an Annual Pass rather than park to park tickets. I have always stood strong to buying the AP because you get major discounts on nearly everything so even if you are only going to the park one time a year it can usually pay for itself. Was it $120 for a 1day park-to-park? A preferred annual pass is only $229. With that you get 10% off food, 10% off merch, free city walk parking, up to 30% off hotels, 15% off multi-day tickets, 10% off single day tickets. Maybe it's just me, but if you're staying more than a day or two, it just makes sense to buy an AP rather than tickets. If you're traveling with a full hotel room, 4 or 5 kids, it makes more than sense to purchase at least one annual pass to get the discounts.
Published: June 20, 2011 at 1:19 PMWe visited with the family for the 18th time from the UK in April and this time we purchased a combined Disney and Universal pass. This cost around $2060 for 15 days for 2 adults and 2 teens, $137 per day.. I think this is pretty good value for money, considering we could come and go as we pleased. However, I still object to the MASSIVE cost of parking!!!, it's outrageously expensive!!,,,,
Published: June 20, 2011 at 1:27 PMI agree, this was some excellent analysis and it's really gotten me thinking. I also want to see my money spent well.
My last two visits to Orlando have been thanks to awesome discounts, which my family and I seem to be pretty good at finding if I do say so myself.
Trip 1: Labor Day Weekend 2010
Disney World 4 days using Military 4-Day one park per day pass (this was a ridiculous $100 per person I believe)
Stayed at pop century using FL resident rate and got it for less than $100 a night (I think)
Trip 2: March 2011
Universal 2 days (mainly for hp)
Used FL resident pass which is three day park hopper for $130 (I think) stayed in a very nice holiday inn express on idrive for very cheap.We will be using the third day on a trip this labor day as we head back to wwohp because we loved it so very much (we will be staying at fairly affordable, but luxorious shades of green on Disney property though, that's the military hotel for those wondering)
Busch gardens Tampa 1 day using military free day (1 free day at any busch park per year, which we have used every year since it came about and have now visited each park except sesame street park) but we did stay in a dirt cheap (and dirt covered) ramada
The deals are out there, one just has to know where to look. It also is much cheaper for us because we can drive there in less than 6 hours meaning no costly airlines.
The deals are out there, one just has to know where to look. It also is much cheaper for us because we can drive there in less than 6 hours meaning no costly airlines.
Published: June 20, 2011 at 1:45 PMInformative article, Robert! Thank you.
I must admit that my husband and I have been to Orlando twice since the Wizarding World opened a year ago at IOA, and we visited Universal exclusively during BOTH of those vacations without even being tempted to visit Disney while in Orlando nor did we venture out to any other surrounding parks. Not only did the new Harry Potter attractions entice us, but I just don't think you can beat the Express Line passes for on-site hotel guests at Universal and their hotels' close proximity to the parks. In my book, it just doesn't get any better than that, no matter how many Fast Pass lines Disney offers.
Our last trip to Disney was in 2006 at the Wilderness Lodge. We were so excited to finally stay at a Deluxe resort, but when we got there, it was difficult seeing what all the hype was about. Sure, there was some nice theming in the hotel's lobby and pool areas, but our room was quite shoddy and in need of some wear-and-tear repairs and updates. (I'm sure remodeling has since been done over the last five years, but I'm just reflecting on what we encountered at the time.) I also still prefer walking to both Universal parks or waiting for a relaxing water taxi rather than riding a bus to the Disney parks.
Based upon what we paid for and got out of that Disney stay, I think we will continue to remain loyal Universal guests in the future unless Disney really knocks our socks off with something new... And I don't know that the Fantasyland expansion is going to do it for us. I should also mention that we are huge thrill ride fans without any children, and it's our opinion that Universal's rides and attractions are geared to an older audience more so than Disney's. So, for now, we'll continue to pay higher prices at Universal because I believe the quality is that much better.
Published: June 20, 2011 at 1:52 PMFantastic article.
My family did a 4-day ticket recently at Disney -- with 8 of us there total, there was no way to justify another $85/pp just to see Harry Potter, especially when a few of the kids were too short to ride!
Our next year's Disney trip may be even longer -- and it will again be the same type of situation, even though my wife is dying to try Potter.
Published: June 20, 2011 at 2:28 PMMike I'm not sure why you would pay $85 JUST to do WWOHP. IOA is an amazing park with lots of stuff for the kiddies. Seuss Landing neighbors the Wizarding World and has lots of fun kid friendly rides. You also have Spiderman, Ripsaw, and Popeye's.Then have iconic rides such as Jurassic Park and the Hulk which have a child swap area. WWOHP Also has more than just FJ. There is a great family coaster that as incredible queue theming, Olivanders, and a few shops that I could honestly spend hours in.
You're right, I couldn't justify $85 dollars a person just to see WWOHP, but I could justify an awesome day in one of the most well themed parks in the area.
Published: June 20, 2011 at 2:41 PMWhile I am one of those who love both Disney and Universal I do lean toward going to Universal when I visit Orlando because I am in my 20's and have no kids, and Universal has as many if not more thrill rides as Disney. That being said I dont really agree about how much cheaper Disney is on multi day passes than Universal. Yes Disney is really cheap on adding days after 4 days and I know that Disney has 4 parks instead of 2 but at disney a 4 day park to park pass is $298 per person where as a Universal 4 day park to park pass is $156 per person. While I agree that a lot of people wont do both Disney and Universal because of the price of buying 2 sets of tickets to 2 different parks I think that if Universal was $15 cheaper on their tickets I dont think it would help their attendance as much as it would hurt their bottom line. Sure Universal could let poeple in for $10 apiece and probably crush Disney in attendance, but having a buisness is about making money not winning an attendance contest.
Published: June 20, 2011 at 3:22 PMExcellent insights.
I just want to add, that whilst it seems bizarre to visit a park for one aspect (ahem, Harry Potter) it actually IS happening. You only need to go on certain discussion forums to see the amount of posts from Disney loyalists that say "I have one day for Universal - I JUST want to see Harry Potter and have no interest in the other attractions, how do I do this?" Honestly, on the one discussion board I visit frequently, these posts come up new EVERYDAY. Tediously, board members explain the other benefits of IOA but some Disney lovers are extremely stubborn.
Disney is so immersed into Western culture, that it would take A LOT for it to be knocked off the topspot. It's almost like a right of passage for children to go through.
I would be very interested to see the attendance figures solely for UK Visitors to the Orlando parks. Most (though not all) Orlando UK visitors would take a 14-day vacation and are less likely to spend their whole time on Disney property. I would take a guess that the attendance report would show a different story, Disney would still be in the lead, but I'd hinder a guess that the gap between Disney and Universal would be a lot smaller.
Published: June 20, 2011 at 3:33 PMUniversal should find a way tap the James Bond and Star Trek franchises, and Sea World should team up with Stargate (Atlantis). Nationally, theme parks would feel the pressure, so while we're at it, let's magically join Six Flags and the Matrix or Predator. That would leave one major (MAJOR) franchise untouched. Cedar Fair, welcome The Lord of the Rings into your parks. Say what you will, Mount Doom and the Eye of Sauron would put Michigan's Adventure on the map!
Published: June 20, 2011 at 3:51 PMAshleigh- I know exactly what you're talking about and I do understand that some people just do want to go to WWOHP and don't care about the cost. But when I have seen numerous people come back to say "I paid $85 to ride 2 rides and it was not worth it!" I get a bit worked up. I in no way meant to flame anyone just to explain that IOA is a great park. But, some people just won't come over to the dark side.
Published: June 20, 2011 at 4:05 PMDisney is hard to beat, but it is still beatable. Most people have 7 days to visit. Sure, it is nearly full price for days 1 to 3, but if you're like me and want to visit Universal, SeaWorld, and The Space Center, it SAVES by visiting Disney less, much less.
Everyone should think about visiting only 2 disney parks. For most Southern Californians, this means skip the Magic Kingdom and Studios. Just visit Epcot and Animal Kingdom. That's it. Save $84 dollars or more from having to visit each additional day.
Use this money for tickets to Universal for 1 or 2 days. Then to other parks as you wish.
There are alternatives if you consider them.
I have to add, going to Disney beyond 4 days is boring. There isn't that much to do. Sorry. I really feel this way.
Published: June 20, 2011 at 4:33 PMOh I would also like to add that Universal eliminated the 7-day ticket all together. Instead they have a 14day ticket that allows you to park hop AND go to wet and wild. The price is $194. Again with the annual price lecture above. The ticket isn't worth it with the discounted savings.
Published: June 20, 2011 at 4:45 PMMy only comment is does Universal and the Sea World parks need or want to beat Disney???
Disney is a different story altogether though. Disney owns almost ALL of the properties inside of the Disney parks (ONLY Star Wars and Indiana Jones are the main ones not owned by them). The Disney parks help drive sales in their other divisions and their other divisions help drive sales in the theme parks. So Disney is not SOLELY interested in profitablity in their theme parks. A big Little Mermaid ride drives DVD sales, merchandise sales (wherever they occur, since they OWN the license), sales for other Princess properties, brand awareness, etc, etc.
Universal (since they don't own MOST of the licenses in ANY of their theme parks), Sea World, Six Flags, Cedar Fair nor even Legoland (Lego only owns a minority interest in Legoland) have the same luxury.
Published: June 20, 2011 at 5:10 PMGreat article
Published: June 20, 2011 at 8:42 PMWell, if you dont dillydally, you can do Universal in a day. I usually do everything I want to by noon or 1. Disney however requires several days because of the massiv resort, and they price there tickets reasonably.
Published: June 21, 2011 at 12:21 AMI don't get why a few of you are praising this article. The author is suggesting that the pricing at Universal and SeaWorld is wrong and they should join forces to challenge Disney. However, the reader comments suggest just the opposite with many saying they've gone to visit Universal and I believe one said they went to Universal exclusively. Based on the comments it would seem that Disney's aggressive discounting of their gate for longer visits doesn't really keep people at their parks and away from their competition.
I think I should point out that regardless of the attendance decline, SeaWorld Orlando remains a very successful park. However, you'd swear by the recent articles on this site that it's going to be out of business in a couple of years.
Published: June 21, 2011 at 9:07 AMI think SeaWorld is under severe pressure. Attendance declines don't help. Orlando is a saturated market. Disney dominates.
Disney World is right near the center of the greater Orlando area. All the other parks are situated inconvenientely further away. I do think Universal/SeaWorld might have a fighting chance if they can get tourists to view their attractions as a viable alternative. They have some attractions that Disney can't match. This needs to be emphasized.
Disney has some major weaknesses that can be exploited. The lack of cutting edge attractions. The vastness of their open spaces are not necessarily an advantage to most tourists. The difficulty is getting around. The high prices. The decline of all their parks in quality and customer service.
Published: June 21, 2011 at 10:16 AMAnon Mouse: Disney has some major weaknesses that can be exploited. The lack of cutting edge attractions.
I Respond: Star Tours 3D with multiple variations. The Disney NextGen interactive technology. The talking characters. the high density projection cameras used on the Castle show.
Anon Mouse: The difficulty is getting around.
I respond: Do you have ANY published data or source of any kind that illustrates that guests have expressed any sort of substantial disatisfaction with Disney's transportation systems?
Anon Mouse: The high prices.
I Respond: Single day tix at WDW are same price as Universal. Multi-day tickets are competitive (as the article illustrates) with more to do while park hopping.
Anon Mouse: The decline of all their parks in quality and customer service.
I Respond: Again, is this just your opinion or a widespread belief? Is there any published data that accommodates the assertion that there has been a decline in customer service or quality?
Published: June 21, 2011 at 10:17 AM(Apology if double posts)
Anon Mouse: Disney has some major weaknesses that can be exploited. The lack of cutting edge attractions.
I Respond: Star Tours 3D with multiple variations. The Disney NextGen interactive technology. The talking characters. the high density projection cameras used on the Castle show.
Anon Mouse: The difficulty is getting around.
I respond: Do you have ANY published data or source of any kind that illustrates that guests have expressed any sort of substantial disatisfaction with Disney's transportation systems?
Anon Mouse: The high prices.
I Respond: Single day tix at WDW are same price as Universal. Multi-day tickets are competitive (as the article illustrates) with more to do while park hopping.
Anon Mouse: The decline of all their parks in quality and customer service.
I Respond: Again, is this just your opinion or a widespread belief? Is there any published data that accommodates the assertion that there has been a decline in customer service or quality?
Published: June 21, 2011 at 10:29 AMOk, so does this mean the Orlando flexticket is only available to UK visitors. Because that is a ticket that covers 14 days unlimited visits to Seaworld, Aquatica, Universal, IOA, Wet 'n' Wild and Busch Gardens. For £210.
I'm surprised they don't do the same for US citizens, it really would get a lot more people through the turnstiles and therefore spending money in the park.
Published: June 21, 2011 at 10:33 AM"Again, is this just your opinion or a widespread belief? Is there any published data that accommodates the assertion that there has been a decline in customer service or quality?"
So you disagree. Your question requires me to put more effort than my one brief paragraph is suggesting.
Published: June 21, 2011 at 10:35 AMEric G writes: I don't get why a few of you are praising this article.
I Respond: Probably because it is well researched, backed up by facts and maintains consistency with the TEA report.
Eric G: The author is suggesting that the pricing at Universal and SeaWorld is wrong and they should join forces to challenge Disney.
I Respond: Actually Mr. Niles uses the word "Perhaps" at the beginning of that segment of the story -- not drawing a conclusion but simply advancing a proposition. He also notes that SeaWorld finds enough value in the UO/SW "Orlando Flex Ticket" program to maintain it on the park's website.
Eric G: Based on the comments it would seem that Disney's aggressive discounting of their gate for longer visits doesn't really keep people at their parks and away from their competition.
I Respond: Based on attendance statistics (showing the average annual attendance in 2010 at an Orlando Disney park is more than twice that of its [I suppose you can call it] "competition") I think it would seem that Disney's aggressive discounting of their gate is working just fine.
Eric G: I think I should point out that regardless of the attendance decline, SeaWorld Orlando remains a very successful park.
I Respond: And you base that on what, exactly?
Eric G: However, you'd swear by the recent articles on this site that it's going to be out of business in a couple of years.
I Respond: That's a bit of an exaggeration. The articles here inidcate that SeaWorld Orlando has experienced notable drops in attendance (Aquatica has suffered significantly as well). This article investgates why and offers specific analysis that ("perhaps") might assist in identifying the cause and a solution to the problem.
Published: June 21, 2011 at 10:39 AM"Probably because it is well researched, backed up by facts and maintains consistency with the TEA report."
Huh? Probably?
Published: June 21, 2011 at 10:58 AMNo, Anon Mouse, I do not necessarily disagree.
Rather you post a disparaging remark about Walt Disney World's theme parks ("The decline of all their parks in quality and customer service.") I am responding by asking if you have some sort of material backing up the assertion that the quality of the guest experience has declined or if there is a new, widespread belief that cast members are not providing the level of service that the parks have been known for.
Published: June 21, 2011 at 10:58 AMYes, Anon Mouse, "Probably."
You see Eric G writes "I don't get why a few of you are praising this article."
The word "few" implies more than one individual. I am offering an opinion ("probably") as to why those other individuals may have drawn a conclusion as to why the article deserves praise.
For me to contend that I know the absolute reason about how the opinions of others were formed would be presumptuous.
Thus, "probably."
Published: June 21, 2011 at 11:55 AMThe post is great, for the one who ask why. Is the detailed description of choices and prices...
I have like 100 things to say about this but I'll tried to keep it short-ish. First a question: Robert you say that the gate is counted again in extended days visits which is logical... But what happens if a family goes to AK gets bored and decides to visit Epcot for the night? Do AK and Epcot both get a visit registered?
1- I'm glad a lot of people here (in this particular post) are so NOT Disney Magically blinded. I'm surprised with so many people loving Disney like they were in a "cult" and refusing to give any of the others GREAT parks any props at all. Again I know this is basically Theme Park Connoisseurs, since I now a majority of Park Guest's goes to Orlando to visit only Disney and that's it.
2- I have NO kids so for me a lot of what Disney has to offer is nice, but I won't really loose any sleep thinking about It's a Small World, the new MK expansion, or even the Greatest Newest Night Show. I don't see as game changing or "better said" I won't go to Orlando to see those on their own. When you put those in a pack, I'll go, but then again my pack includes Seaworld Parks and Universal... I think that's what Disney does great, is about Disney, is about the magic, is not about a single thing, but the conglomerate of things. Those things are what makes Disney, "Disney". I know this hurts the Disney "crazed folk". but Disney doesn't have the better attraction. Disney lovers don't like the fact that HP has done as well and keep thinking: "Disney will come up with something better..." I don't see it, not yet, cause I don't think Star Tours and the new expansions are that... HP is a Grand Slam, is a bases loaded HR, that is putting Universal closer. Disney gives you Star Tours (a Triple) brings back the Tiki Room (a single) does the expansion (probably a 2 run HR) Price, (other 2 run HR) and you keep adding those up the Disney beats the others 8-5 and the end.
3- I think that would be a nice poll Mr. Niles to consider... 5 Non Disney as you'd suggested, against the 4 Disney's. Same price, no hotels, no water parks. Just to see how they match. I know Disney would still win, but I'd wondered by how much? My guess... About 65-35. I would still vote for the other 5.
Published: June 21, 2011 at 2:25 PMDisney wins by attrition. They packed their parks to the gills and taken most of the tourists' money so there is no way out. They also have a very cohesive message on what their vacations are based on. As such, the other parks should try tactics to their advantage.
Universal and Sea World have very compelling options that can be compared head to head to Disney. Even then, it would be to their disadvantage to not include some Disney parks into a travel itinerary.
In other words, maybe they should partially subsidize trips to Disney on their dime if they can get the customer to visit Universal and Seaworld for most of the trip, such as low cost add-ons to one or two Disney parks of the customer's choice if they buy a Orlando trip with hotel and rental car.
Thus, on a Orlando Pass, they get a super-pass with unlimited trips to 6 Orlando Parks with 2 passes to Disney. This isn't done currently so I would like to see it happen.
Most tourists don't know how Orlando is laid out so they don't know how close Universal and Seaworld are to Disney. I didn't realize it myself until I just looked it up. No one needs to compromise from an Universal/Seaworld vacation.
Published: June 21, 2011 at 3:33 PMFrancisco the Anonymous poster writes: "I'm glad a lot of people here (in this particular post) are so NOT Disney Magically blinded. I'm surprised with so many people loving Disney like they were in a "cult" and refusing to give any of the others GREAT parks any props at all."
I Respond: I'd enjoy hearing this poster identify anyone on this site who are "Disney Magically blinded" and who refuse "to give any of the others GREAT parks any props at all."
Francisco again: "Disney lovers don't like the fact that HP has done as well and keep thinking: "Disney will come up with something better..."
I Respond: Find me a post anywhere on this site that exemplfies that assertion.
Published: June 21, 2011 at 3:43 PMNoticed Anon Mouse has not seen fit to defend the assertion about Disney ("The decline of all their parks in quality and customer service.")
As a Central Floridian living in a local economy that depends on tourism I was hoping that the public statement offered would be justified by Anon Mouse. It would be disappointing if it was simply a claim based upon subjectivity -- especially the assertion about customer service (which would seem an indictment of the efforts made everyday by Disney cast members).
Published: June 21, 2011 at 4:44 PM@TH Creative - I like Disney, I enjoy my vacations in Orlando, regardless if I'm in Disney or any other park I think Disney does a great job in a lot of areas. I don't think it has the best rides individually. I'm not a family oriented guy, in terms of rides. So I think the "others" have more thrilling rides. Does, more interesting/better in my book. I know a lot of other people are looking for a more Family oriented experience, I have no problem with that.
Identifying others who are blinded... I tell you this: a lot of people here (and other places) only talk about Disney's greatness and say stuff like Universal are half a day parks and how they aren't even worth a visit. I've heard a lot "of other" people saying now Universal has the best 2 rides in Orlando. I don't agreed with "all" of what the others are saying they don't like about Disney, but I enjoy "a lot" the fact they're praising what they love in the NON Disney parks. I don't think there's anything wrong with saying that!!
So TH creative says: "This person said this, and that person said that"
I respond: Some are facts, like them or not, some comments are just wrong, and some are "personal" opinions masked as fact... People have a right to enjoyed what they enjoy, and say what they like. The only one who appears to have a problem with that, is the one questioning every single comment, of every single person who differs from his point of view...
Published: June 21, 2011 at 4:57 PM@Th Creative by the way it was "Me" the last post (The anonymous poster "Francisco") - Another thing SOME of US the Theme Park loving folks, NOT in love with any park franchise in particular, can tell when people are Blinded by Disney's "Magic". If some people can't, well I'd guess that's that...
@Robert you didn't answered my question. If some one goes to multiple Disney's (or for that matter Universal's) on the same day: Do they get multiple admissions registered?
Published: June 21, 2011 at 11:08 PMFWIW, I totally agree with your assessment, Robert.
Another thing to note is that Universal's "big year" is really not that extraordinary when you look at the last few years:
Other than the huge drop off in 2009 when RRR was puking all over itself and WWOHP construction closed three attractions at IOA (DD - Fire, DD - Ice, and the Flying Unicorn), Universal is just slightly improved over 2007 in overall attendance. And more importantly, the Studios park itself is still a few hundred thousand visitors below normal.
Honestly, though, I am not sure Universal's parks are capable of handling much more capacity than they are hitting today. Specifically, the Wizarding World is NOT capable of handling larger crowds due to Rowling's insistence on a very intimate design (which is why Disney, with their HUGE crowds, ultimately had no choice but to back out of their negotiations for the rights to HP). When your most popular in-park attraction is a nightmare for capacity planning you are inherently limiting your attendance.
Universal's best option for growing attendance is to put all their energy into expanding their Harry Potter offerings - but since there is little real estate to work with, they have no choice but to expand by removing (or re-theming) other existing attractions. And while that expansion is under construction, guess what will happen to park attendance? Look no further than 2009 for the answer. For all Universal's greatness when it comes to designing attractions, I am not sure their long term plan for growing the parks is laid out half as well.
Ultimately, if Universal wants to compete in attendance long term, they must maintain and upgrade their current lineup of attractions, add more highly immersive experiences at USO, expand their Harry Potter offerings (in hindsight the WWOHP should have probably been a separate park altogether), AND lower prices back to their 2007 levels - when going to Universal was a "steal" for the quality provided. The average Orlando visitor needs to be convinced that a few days at Universal adds value to their vacation, not just expense!
As for SeaWorld Orlando, their offerings are unique enough that the park will continue to be a destination that meshes well with a Disney vacation. Therefore, SWO simply needs to compete with Universal on price, and they should see attendance climb. A new, whole-family dark ride combined with lower prices is just what the park needs to stop the bleeding and start the healing.
Published: June 21, 2011 at 9:45 PMThe TEA/AECOM report isn't explicit about this, but back in the days when it was ERA (before it was bought by AECOM) doing the report for Amusement Business one of the people there told me that the report tried to account for just the first gate of the day. So a second visit that day to another park wouldn't count. Don't know if that's still the case, as different chains might have different policies on that.
Ultimately, there's sampling involved, so we're really talking about the structure of a model as opposed to a system of actual hard counts.
Published: June 22, 2011 at 5:19 AMThe chance was very simple for Sea world and to a lesser extent Universal to compete with Disney on a "level" playing field. But it was lost when the decision was to save money on intitial construction cost and not long term success via Legoland being built in Winter Haven over Universal's remaining property near the convention center or on their traditional area and connecting it via the canals to City Walk. This would have given the I-Drive corridor IOA to compete with MK (closer than many think), Hollywood Studios to Universal Studios (easily Universal), Sea World to Animal Kingdom (Sea World) and Epcot would overwhelm Legoland (but at least a fourth park). Furthermore Aquatica & Wet'n Wild would compete with Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon pretty fairly. Toss is some arrangements with some of I-Drive's secondary attractions (Ripley's, Wonderworks & Mini Golf) and the vacations would be quite comparable. Universal could also when vacationers with only boys or create a rotation via legoland versus the Disney Princess faction.
Published: June 22, 2011 at 5:35 AMMr. Francisco, I am not sure what you mean by "blinded." I think Walt Disney World represents the best in themed entertainment because its parks are emersive. However simply because someone rates the WDW themed experience as the one they favor certainly does not mean that person does not recognize the extraordinary attractions and entertainment of other parks.
When you wrote "Disney lovers don't like the fact that HP has done as well..." I take exception to the assertion. While the Potter attractions at IOA may not be everyone's cup of tea I've never encountered anyone (certainly not any TPI regulars) who would be identified as a Disney fan that doesn't "like the fact that HP has done as well..."
Mr. Francisco writes: "The only one who appears to have a problem with that, is the one questioning every single comment, of every single person who differs from his point of view..."
I Respond: (Chuckle) I do enjoy a good discussion. But sometimes when I find a post that I do not agree with I'll call the person out. For example, when a poster like Anon Mouse comes to a public board and makes a disparaging comment ("The decline of all their (Disney) parks in quality and customer service."), that not only hates on a cornerstone of my region's economy but is also critical (directly or indirectly) of the WDW cast members and the quality of their service, I'm gonna ask how they came to embrace an opinion that is such a sweeping indictment. And I don't see how making such an inquiry is in anyway unreasonable.
Published: June 22, 2011 at 7:22 AM@Th Creative. Who the heck are you? We can drag this to eternity as you have shown. Let's keep bringing up the decline of WDW's quality and level of service. Yes, let's keep bringing it up.
You already said "I do not necessarily disagree." Either you do or you don't. You seem hung up on me proving it to your satisfaction although you already conceded so the proof is all you need.
The "region's economy" shouldn't depend solely on Disney since competition is needed. It is always good to spread the wealth to visit other sites.
Published: June 22, 2011 at 8:04 AM@Anon Mouse you made the claim ("The decline of all their parks in quality and customer service") and I simply responded by asking a question ("... is this just your opinion or a widespread belief? Is there any published data that accommodates the assertion that there has been a decline in customer service or quality?")
Speaking as someone who makes multiple visits to Orlando's theme parks every year I have not see any such decline in quality or customer service.
This prompted me to ask what caused you to draw the conclusion?
Published: June 22, 2011 at 10:51 AM@TH creative- I agree with some of your points. But in the "Blinded" point that seems to irritate you (chuckle), I stick by that 100%. I do see it, and have seen it. Even by "some" TPI regulars, saying stuff like lets wait and see what Disney's come up with to beat HP. That HP is a momentary thing it will pass, and how Universal's still not worth a visit. I've read those comments here (more than once). I won't look for then cause really is too much work... But although I don't register (and haven't always commented either) I've come to TPI since around 2006, is not "2002" but it does gives me a large sampler.
About this: "I think Walt Disney World represents the best in themed entertainment because its parks are emersive." I AGREED Disney represents that... But I don't think they do everything better. Price, Customer Service, Family Oriented Experience... Yes... But I can't stand when people don't give the "others" a chance or won't visit and their comments seem to be bias. If you don't think like them, good for you, but be careful when you talk in general about TPI regulars, cause if you say some are not Disney bias you'd be %100 WRONG. It's understandable, Disney being at the top, some people would feel that way. But it seems more as if their comments are base on Love more than observation. When you don't give the others a chance and are too "infatuated/blinded" with just one thing, it prevents them from having an educated opinion... Again if you have an open mind about this, you can see how Love can lead to a bias opinion. I NEVER said "YOU" (TH) were one of those. I made a comment about "some" people being blinded by their Love for Disney, in an "open forum", you were the one that took it like that, and ran with it.(chuckle)
Published: June 22, 2011 at 11:06 AM@TH creative- Again my previous comment - "Francisco" forgot to...
@Robert Niles - I was curious since It seems Disney guests do seem to love park hopping, if that would influence in any way the gate counts. Thanks for replying and again great article!
Published: June 24, 2011 at 3:27 PMOne guy I know tried to start a pricing revolution with Disney because he was upset about the price increase. His curiously flawed logic was to boycott Disney merchandise to lower prices. He thought that to make up for the money lost in merch sales, they would have to lower the prices of the gate to let more people in. I tried to tell him that it just might raise the merch prices and not affect the gate prices, or if anything raise them more.
He tried to explain back that Disney movies can make the difference of park income.
Then I tried to explain that Disney movies only pays for making Disney movies and Disney parks only pay for cost of hte parks and are separate companies under the Disney umbrella.
Then I told him that if he thinks the gate prices are too high, don't go to Disney.
He didn't like that idea.
Published: June 25, 2011 at 2:37 AMWell for me, as a UK visitor, Disney costs are more expensive when compared to the flexiticket which covers universal, sea world, busch gardens, wet n wild & aquatica which I would normally buy hands down.
Am coming in Oct and buying the freedom ticket which includes above and the magic your way disney ticket only as I am coming with someone who has never been to Disney, otherwise I would not bother.
Why? Disney is amazing at what it does, but it feels like you are travelling around the parks so much it's knackering! Also, as said elsewhere the rides in universal are more to my liking and the parks are a good size.
Price - well, I'd love to stay on site for Disney but it's just so expensive it isn't worth it, especially with the use of fast pass!


text:
Trial record 1 of 1 for: MI-CP216
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A Study to Evaluate the Safety and Tolerability of MEDI-565 in Adults With Gastrointestinal Adenocarcinomas
This study has been completed.
MedImmune LLC
Information provided by (Responsible Party):
MedImmune LLC
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
First received: January 18, 2011
Last updated: March 2, 2015
Last verified: March 2015
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No Study Results Posted on ClinicalTrials.gov for this Study
|Study Status:
|This study has been completed.
|Study Completion Date:
|January 2015
|Primary Completion Date:
|January 2015 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)


text:
Help Install Solar Panels on a School in Nicaragua
Travel with Power to the People to Nicaragua to install solar panels on a school, cafeterias, or community centers in Nicaragua. It is hard to imagine living without electricity when so much of our daily lives depend on it. Electricity allows us to access information, be more efficient and productive in our jobs, experience the comforts of a heated or air-conditioned building, and enjoy the latest innovations in entertainment and communication.
Electricity brings with it exposure to another world of possibilities and allows us to advance together through our participation in innovation, discovery, and comfort. Solar (photovoltaic) power is an excellent way to bring a clean source of electricity to rural areas that are not connected to the national electric grid. Volunteering with Power to the People is a great way to learn more about solar energy while making a lasting impact in others' lives.
There are not many opportunities to gain hands-on experience installing an off-grid solar system and working on the project together with local community volunteers is extremely rewarding. Not only will you learn about solar energy and life in rural Nicaragua, you will also be helping to bring a solar electric system to a school so that the teachers, students and community members have access to lights and AC power. The solar system will help the school improve the quality of education it provides and increase access to information to the next generation of bright minds.
What to Expect?
Volunteers can expect a fun-filled week of activities including a 3-day hands-on off-grid solar installation in a rural community. The groups are limited in size so everyone gets to know each other and there is room for everyone to be a part of the solar installation. The towns we work in are very rural and you will get a real glimpse of life in much of Nicaragua. After the installation, the group will travel to some of the country's most beautiful sites making this the perfect "work vacation".
Some of the activities after the installation include hiking around a volcano, visiting the colonial-style town of Granada, swimming in the ocean by San Juan del Sur, seeing the famous lookout in the town of Catarina, taking a boat tour of the Granada islands, and much more if time allows. The trips are unbelievably fun - a really nice break from our daily routine. It's such a treat to hang out with like-minded people while helping others and learning about a new culture.
- Program ID: # 2001
- duration: 1 to 2 Weeks
- location: Terron Colorado, Nicaragua GranadaNicaragua11° 43' 48.846" N, 85° 50' 59.694" WSee map: Google MapsNI
- Fitness level: Moderately Fit
- Closest Airport: Please contact program
- Costs From: $1000 to $1500$1500 to $3000
- Program Type: Community Development ProjectsEnvironmental & Wildlife ProgramsLearn Abroad
- Click Here for More Info


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A 22-year-old man who had just left the Addison Road Metro station was critically injured Sunday night after he was hit by an SUV on Central Avenue, authorities said.
The crash -- the second in which a pedestrian was critically injured in Prince George's over the weekend -- occurred about 9:56 p.m., said Cpl. Rodney Gause, a Prince George's County Police spokesman. He said the man, who lived in Capitol Heights, left the Metro station and had reached the median strip on Central Avenue when he turned back. A 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor, which had initially slowed down for the man, collided with him in the eastbound lanes, Gause said. The man was critically injured but alive early on Monday, Gause said.
Gause said the Endeavor's driver, a 49-year-old man from Capitol Heights, remained at the scene and was "cooperative" with investigators. He said detectives do not believe the driver was speeding or drinking, and they still are probing why the pedestrian he hit turned back on Central Avenue.
About 11:15 p.m. a day earlier, Prince George's police had responded to another serious pedestrian crash – this time after an off-duty officer spotted a 49-year-old man lying on Ager Road near East-West Highway in the Chillum area, authorities said. The man had been critically injured in what appeared to be a crash with a vehicle, authorities said.
The driver in the Saturday case initially left the scene, though he returned about 7:37 a.m. Sunday and reported the incident to police, authorities said. Police said the driver was headed west on Ager Road and collided with the 49-year-old man near East-West Highway. The man was not in a crosswalk or intersection, police said.
On Monday, the man from the Saturday incident remained alive and in critical condition, and investigators were still working to determine whether charges were warranted in that case, Gause said.


text:
Citations for marijuana possession largely ignored by D.C. violators
WASHINGTON (WJLA) – The D.C. government has yet to see any money from the tickets issued to people caught with small amounts of marijuana. It's been nearly a month since possession was decriminalized, but some people caught with the drug are still ending up behind bars.
Finding someone who's been fined for possession under the District's new marijuana decriminalization law is difficult, ABC 7 News discovered. But according to Metropolitan Police, from July 17, when the law took effect, through last Wednesday, Aug. 6, police issued 35 of the $25 tickets for possession, and made 30 arrests for smoking pot in a public space, selling or intending to sell, and for possession of more than an ounce.
Of the 35 tickets issued for possession, none of the violators has paid, according to the D.C. Office of Administrative Hearings.
Washington City Paper Editor Mike Madden offered to pay tickets for the District's first five offenders.
"We have gotten none so far—not one," Madden said, adding that he was a bit surprised.
DC Police Union President Delroy Burton was out of town Monday, but in the past he complained the law was unenforceable, because police aren't allowed to ask the person being ticketed for ID, and must just accept whatever he or she says.
D.C. Councilmember Tommy Wells, who wrote the bill, was unavailable Monday, but ABC 7 News spoke with Councilmember Muriel Bowser, who voted for the law; she says that aspect needs to be changed.
"If we have a ticket, it has to be enforceable, so any law on the books that's not enforceable is a concern," she said.
Perhaps the non-paying violators are waiting to see if the law to legalize marijuana—now on the November ballot—passes, and their tickets will be ignored.
The law hasn't stopped arrests in one Southeast D.C. neighborhood; a man who did not want to be identified said police have no interest in the law.
"They lockin' us up every way they can," he said. "I ain't seen one [ticket] yet. I don't know not one person that got a ticket."


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text:
Research Topics
Ryan D Artuso
Affiliation: University of Maryland
Country: USA
Detail Information
- Optical response of strongly coupled quantum dot-metal nanoparticle systems: double peaked Fano structure and bistabilityRyan D Artuso
Joint Quantum Institute and Department of Physics, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742 4111, USA
Nano Lett 8:2106-11. 2008..This originates when the self-interaction of the SQD becomes significant. We explore these three regimes in detail and set bounds on each...