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Final Fantasy XIII
Review by t34b34n
"A Paradigm Shift for single player RPGs: Needs improvement"
Final Fantasy XIII is Square-Enix's thirteenth installment in the Final Fantasy series. Those familiar with past titles can rightly expect to see some of the staple elements and themes of prior releases but should also be aware that the mechanisms under the hood, from world exploration to battle direction, have been drastically changed.
Gameplay: World Exploration:
In all previous installments of Final Fantasy, the player was allowed to explore the world and was usually able to revisit past areas. In Final Fantasy XIII, this capacity has been largely denied, and the player would benefit from thinking about the structure of the game more as side-scrolling action levels than traditional regions of exploration. Where the non-linear exploration fantasy finally is allowed, the player receives it in spades and those keen on total completion of the game will likely be criss-crossing the explorable area for days. I wish I were exaggerating, but 24 hours is actually a highly optimistic estimate for the distance one will eventually need to travel.
Gameplay: Battle Controls:
Final Fantasy XIII's battles diverge from its predecessors in a handful of ways. Most notably, hit points (HP) and status conditions are reset at the end of every battle and magic points (MP) no longer exist. The overall result is that almost every battle can be won extremely slowly by taking an extremely defensive posture or lost extremely quickly by taking an extremely offensive posture. The goal of every battle, however, becomes a race against the clock to find the fastest way of beating the given opponent(s).
That said, at its best, battle control in Final Fantasy XIII is a fast-paced, fluid means of demolishing the opposition. At its worst, it is a chaotic smorgasbord of visual effects, bright damage numbers, flashing lights, and shaking camera angles through which the player can do little more than cross their fingers and Hope their team is the one to walk out of the dust. Strangely, the more challenging and active an encounter becomes, the more the gamer needs to try to *not* look at the actual fight, as battle management works much better if one learns to read and monitor each of the 8 meters (I kid you not) and one menu through which the battle operates.
It is also worth noting that although there can be up to three characters in the fighting party, the player only controls one character at a time. Even then, the player will likely make almost exclusive use of the auto-battle function (effectively ceding control to the programmers over at Square-Enix to determine the best course of action), and the gamer's only useful function becomes choosing what role combinations (called Paradigms) to select and when to select them.
Gameplay: Character development (EXP/CP) and resource management (GP/Gil)
Character development in Final Fantasy XIII is achieved through a system called the Crystarium. Fanciful names aside, it is an almost entirely linear system of exchanging experience points (called Crystarium Points or CP in Final Fantasy XIII) for crystals representing one of three status boosts (HP, Magic, and Strength) or a variety of abilities. These crystals must be purchased in order, though the main "rail" does often make small branches.
The Crystarium is also divided into a series of levels which are locked until various points in the main storyline are passed. To veterans of the series, it is worth mentioning that no status improvement is being made by engaging in extra battles until the first level of the Crystarium is unlocked.
Gil is handled differently from other Final Fantasy titles in that no gil reward is ever given for any fight. From time to time, enemies will drop items that may be sold for gil, and valuable items may be rarely found in treasure chests scattered throughout the game. To make effective use of the upgrade system in Final Fantasy XIII, however, the gil requirements will demand that the player engage in what MMORPGers call "farming". Why the designers thought this was a good idea in a single player game is quite beyond me, but don't be surprised if you crunch the numbers and find that the fastest way of making the gil you need has you fighting the same enemy (or enemies) hundreds, if not thousands, of times.
Additionally, it's very easy to squander (and somewhat unavoidable to waste a good deal of) your gil, thanks to the horrendously byzantine upgrade system. Even though the game may recommend that you experiment, be forewarned that experimentation will lose you hundreds of thousands of gil. A guide (I used six separate guides and a host of YouTube videos to understand the upgrades) to this system is a must if you want to do it efficiently and save yourself literally days of needless and unrewarding gaming time.
The story of Final Fantasy is swell, touching on some of the oldest philosophical issues humanity has struggled with; finding meaning in life in the face of certain death, the role of gods in the affairs of mortal beings, free will versus determination...
The only issue for gamers may come in trying to figure out what the game world is like, as no real introduction is given to the setting, the geography, the culture, the social clime, etc., etc. prior to being immersed neck deep in a highly chaotic situation. Actually, the introduction *is* that chaotic immersion. Without spoiling anything, a lot of stuff is mentioned in the Datalog function that sheds light on the story of Final Fantasy XIII which is never mentioned elsewhere in the game. Clarity is best maintained by reading the Datalog fully and referring back to it whenever you are notified that new content has been added.
Graphics / Sound
Square-Enix has never disappointed in this department previously, and that tradition is still strongly reflected. Character models are detailed and animations are aces. Battle effects are over the top to the point of being distracting or obscuring of pertinent information, especially with higher level spells that take control of the camera to get the "best" angle on the action.
Sound effects are passable but nothing to write home about. Sound recording quality is great, but the sounds themselves aren't distinctive. The audio tracks, unfortunately, fall far short of previous installments. Even after 70 hours of gameplay, I can't recall a single song from the game. If you enjoyed the iconic Prelude or Prologue, "One Winged Angel", "Dancing Mad", or other works by Nobuo Uematsu, you're probably not going to get a huge kick out Masashi Hamauzu's score.
In two words: "Techno Chaos". Actually, just watch the introduction. The world and cutscenes don't get much more orderly than that, and the colors just get more garish, so if you can tell what's going on and enjoy the feel of that world (think Hong Kong or downtown Tokyo), you'll really enjoy this title. If not... just remember that the minimap does away with all the clutter in the world.
Also, it should be noted that the atmosphere of the game is decidedly more technological than one might expect of a Final *Fantasy*. Everything from font choice to save points and treasure chests scream "Technology!", making this much more a science fiction adventure with touches of magic intertwined.
Play time / Replayability
Approximately 30-40 hours for a straight playthrough. Moderate exploration can easily double the gameplay (which is also pertinent to the Gameplay: World Exploration and Character Development sections). Total completion of the title (as in, defeating every enemy and acquiring the ultimate gear) will likely take over 100 hours, possibly doubling or tripling if no guides are used. There is very little replay value to this title is a large number of saves were made so cutscenes and sequences can be revisited if desired: No New Game+ feature exists and there is no reason I can think of to start this game over.
Final Recommendation
I would recommend making the effort to play previous titles in the series first and playing a rental of Final Fantasy XIII prior to purchasing, especially if you enjoyed prior installments of the series and would have liked something in the same vein.
Reviewer's Rating: 2.0 - Poor
Originally Posted: 05/12/10
Game Release: Final Fantasy XIII (US, 03/09/10)
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JERUSALEM (Dec. 19)
The Cairo Radio today called on Gaza inhabitants to stage pro-Egyptian demonstrations during United Nations Secretary General Dag Hammarskjold's visit to the Strip next week. The demonstrations should prove the Gaza Arabs fidelity to Egypt, their desire to be united with that country and their "sufferings" under the present regime — the UN Emergency Force–the announcer prompted.
If the performance is carried off well, he pledged, Egypt will pour large sums into the area for development purposes. It was noted here that in the three months which Israel occupied the Gaza Strip it put more money into developments than Egypt had in the previous decade.

subset: commoncrawl


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THE SHORTLIST FOR the Fáilte Ireland 2015 Tourism Towns Awards were announced this afternoon.
Ten towns, both little and large, were given the nod for giving a top notch visitor experience.
County Kerry is by far the most impressive, with four towns listed in the top ten. Both Cork and Waterford have two towns each on the shortlist.
Best Small Town
- Adare, Co Limerick
- Ardmore, Co Waterford
- Clonakilty, Co Cork
- Kenmare, Co Kerry
- Lismore, Co Waterford
- Sneem, Co Kerry
Best Large Town
- Cobh, Co. Cork
- Killarney, Co Kerry
- Kilkenny, Co Kilkenny
- Tralee, Co Kerry


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Looking for a vacation rental in Campeche? Tripping.com has 48 rental homes available in Campeche. Potential renters will find studios, 42 1-bedroom, 2 2-bedroom and 4 rentals with 3 or more bedrooms ranging from $25 a night to $2500 a night. Many of these properties are instantly bookable.
The average price of a nightly rental in Campeche is $128 while the average price of a weekly rental is $420. For those looking for more than a short term rental such as corporate rentals, extended stays or long term rentals, the average monthly price of a Campeche home is $1800.
Wondering if you can bring your favorite dog or cat with you? We have 4 pet friendly vacation rentals available for you. In addition to accommodating pets, Campeche rentals offer a variety of amenities. In particular, 29 rentals have internet and wifi, 15 have TV and/or cable and 23 have a pool or hot tub.Search properties from 3 rental sites in Campeche where the top providers in that area are Booking.com, TripAdvisor, and Agoda. There are 41 Booking.com rentals, 6 TripAdvisor short term rentals and 1 Agoda vacation rentals.


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By Philip Cosores
You may not know how to say her name, but chances are you've been seeing Kiesza's more and more these days, particularly with her recent cover of Hozier's "Take Me to Church" and her single, "Hideaway."
Well, it seems like the rising Canadian pop singer has another dramatic, stripped-down cover to share in the vein of her Hozier and Haddaway's "What is Love" takes, this time of the Nirvana classic "Heart Shaped Box."
Related: Kiesza Dials Up Her Love of '90s Dance in 'Giant in My Heart': Watch
The cover retains the darkness of the Cobain original, but strips away the fuzz and the drums and lets Kiesza's voice carry the performance, which it is more than capable of doing.
Kiesza's rendition of "Heart Shaped Box" was performed as part of her appearance on NME's Basement Sessions.
Nice to see this next generation of pop star paying Nirvana with the proper tribute; kinda makes us wanna go back to the Bronze and slow dance with Buffy the Vampire Slayer.


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Oh blessed final day of the workweek, you have arrived like a cold frosty beverage on a sweaty hot day. The perfect capper to a week of pretend labor and overhyped sighs. As always, I do hope the week on Egotastic! helps you get through your daily grind with a bit of a smile and perhaps a happy tingle or two. Of course, I am helped in my efforts by the hotness likes of Joey Fisher, Melissa Debling, Rosie Jones, and Sabine Jemeljanova, who all got topless at the Nuts magazine office for some visual wonderments. It's the office I always imagined Id work in, you know, act like I wasn't staring as four wickedly sextastic women began to unrobe around me while my insides were melting. I'm blessed to have something not too dissimilar. Minus Rosie, Joey, Melissa, and Sabina. Alas.
On Fridays we give thanks to the beautiful bevy of boobtastic babes that grace our hearts and minds each and every day we have the opportunity to breathe and to ogle. These four ladies just make the world that much sweeter. A wonderful contribution indeed. Thank God It's Funbags!


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Metal News for April 12, 2002
Last updated on September 22, 2017 at 1:06 PM ET
We post metal news every day, throughout the day, covering thousands of metal bands including underground and unsigned bands. You are currently browsing the news archive, but you can also find news by band.
7 news articles posted on this day.
Daily Reviews
Nosebleed17 has new reviews:
- Still Life - "Pre Release"
- Monkeynut - "Faces"
- Unwelcome - "Independent Worm Songs"
- Foreground - "Chaos"
- Scars Of Life - "Mute"
- Sinckwhole - "Cease To Exist"
- Omniblank - "Birth Of A Firefly"
- Pooch - "Individual"
- Carv - "Anesthetic"
Forlorn Revamp, Reload, and Record
Since the release of Opus III - Ad Caelestis Res, Norwegian metallers, Forlorn have been through many changes, most notably, the departure of C. Worhn. Original guitarist Hennex began looking for members, even just for a recording session. This resulted in a reevaluation of the band's direction, straying from the previous Viking metal sound and discovering new life as an extreme metal act, a style which suits the band's "from the present to the future" attitude far better.
Forlorn will begin recording the next, still untitled, Napalm Records disc on April 15th, for an anticipated August release. Once finished with the recording session, the band will undertake a series of live dates. More...
Arch Enemy Skips Hypocrisy/Soilwork US Tour
Arch Enemy will not be touring the US in May as part of the Hypocrisy/Soilwork package and are presently looking for "bigger and better" opportunities for the same time period, according to a spokesperson for band's American record label, Century Media Records. "They were never confirmed [for the tour]," the label rep told Blabbermouth.net. "They were asked, somehow it got out and [everyone assumed they were doing it]. They were not interested in this tour and are entertaining different offers and looking for bigger and better opportunities."
Hypocrisy and Soilwork are expected to complete all the dates as scheduled, with Killswitch Engage and Scar Culture occupying the first and second slots on the bill, respectively.
Malevolent Creation Change Producer/Studio
Contrary to previous reports, Malevolent Creation will no longer be recording their next studio effort, entitled The Will to Kill, at Abyss Studios with producer Peter Tagtgren and will instead be utilizing Montreal's Victor facility with Jean-Francois Dagenais of Kataklysm at the production helm. A late 2002 release through Nuclear Blast Records in Europe is expected.
Bathory to Begin work on eleventh album
Bathory mainman Quorthon is planning on entering the studio shortly to begin work on the band's 11th studio album, which is tentatively due before the end of the summer
Morrigan's Sea of Flames
Morrigan's new album is finished and scheduled for an April 20th release. The title of the album is Enter The Sea Of Flames and will be released through Germany's Barbarian Wrath label.
Headline News
Soilent Green in Another Accident
On April 11, 2002 New Orleans' Soilent Green were involved in yet another vehicle accident that left vocalist Ben Falgoust and stand-in tour bassist Jon Model injured.
According to sources close to the band, Falgoust and Model were the most affected by the accident while the remaining members of Soilent Green, guitarist Brian Patton and drummer Tommy Buckley, escaped the crash with only minor scrapes.
As a result of the accident, Soilent Green are effectively off GWAR's "Blood Drive 2002" tour and will spend time at home recouperating.
Navigate forward or backward through each day of news below:


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ABC News' Michael Falcone reports:
CONCORD, N.H. — Presidential candidate Herman Cain, whose signature 9-9-9 tax plan would include a 9 percent national sales tax, found himself on the receiving end of an economics lesson from a New Hampshire voter today.
"I can tell you in New Hampshire people don't like sales tax," a diner eating lunch in a Concord restaurant told the former Godfather's Pizza CEO.
"Don't confuse the New Hampshire sales tax with this because you're going to have to pay that anyway," Cain said.
But the man quickly corrected the presidential candidate: "New Hampshire doesn't have a sales tax."
"Don't mix the two," Cain insisted. "Some people say, well we don't want a sales tax. It's not a state sales tax."
The man informed Cain he was a supporter of a flat tax.
"People get nervous because of the sales tax piece," Cain said. "But the way I respond to that is, are you happy with the current tax code? Do we know what's in it? At least we know what's in this."
The conversation came during an unscheduled stop at the Ninety Nine Restaurant here. Campaign aides chose the venue for numerical reasons — the menu features "9 Real Size Entrees for Only $9.99."
But Cain, who said he would be making more frequent visits to this important early primary state, appeared unaware that New Hampshire does not have a sales tax even though at a news conference earlier in the day a reporter who asked Cain about the 9-9-9 plan told the candidate, "New Hampshire, as you know, doesn't have a sales tax."
"Don't make that mistake," Cain told the reporter. "The state taxes aren't in this at all. You're going to pay the state taxes no matter what structure we have. You're going to pay the state taxes under the old structure or you're not going to pay state taxes, whatever the case may be, with or without it."
"That only clouds the conversation," he added.


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text: EnvironmentJapan disaster child volunteers A group of boys turns misfortune into good deeds by spearheading relief efforts for quake and tsunami victims. 20 Mar 2011 03:10 GMT | Environment, Humanitarian crises, Asia Pacific, Japan A group of boys has taken it upon themselves to scavenge for food and supplies among the debris in Taro, where their village once stood. They have been able to provide some relief to hundreds of survivors sheltered at a nearby Buddhist temple. Al Jazeera's Steve Chao reports on their inspiring deeds from Morioka in northern Japan.Source: Al Jazeera


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Germany welcomes Spain's balanced budget amendment
Germany on Wednesday welcomed a move by Spain to introduce a new constitutional rule on balanced budgets as a positive example for other debt-stricken eurozone countries.
Government spokesman Steffen Seibert told reporters at a regular briefing that the reform marked a "very welcome and very significant step" toward more fiscal discipline.
Spain's Socialist government announced Tuesday that it had agreed with the opposition conservative Popular Party on the constitutional reform so as to reassure nervous financial markets.
The amendment would cover both the annual budget deficit and accumulated debt.
French President Nicolas Sarkozy and German Chancellor Angela Merkel earlier this month called on eurozone countries to adopt a 'golden rule' from 2012 requiring governments to balance their budgets.
Germany, Europe's strongest economy and the eurozone's paymaster, has already adopted a balanced budget law, and said this week it is on course to balance its accounts by 2014. Sarkozy plans a similar provision for France.
Massive budget deficits, far above the EU ceiling of 3.0 percent of gross domestic product, have left eurozone states with a debt overhang which they are now struggling to control and pay down.
Spain is seeking to slash the public deficit to 6.0 percent of GDP by the end of the year from 9.2 percent in 2010. It aims to reach the EU target of 3.0 percent by 2013.


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I've found something that's relatively unique and undoubtedly excellent! Much thanks to the Chinese Embassy for the free use of their internet while I wait to finalize my visa...
I was riding down Barking Rd in the process of moving house to Whitechapel the other day when I noticed a restaurant which declared itself to be authentically Peshwari. It looked open, but upon returning a few days later it seemed to be closed. Well I returned yesterday and I was rewarded massively for my persistence (and the epic bus ride from Whitechapel. Damn the tubes.)
Upon entering it still seemed closed (the gate was half down) except for one Pashtun speaking man eating and a collection of cooks at work at both the making of chapli kebabs and the installing of a tandoori oven (which looks outrageously heavy, btw.) Shortly the owner came over and the rest was pretty much a family visit to my long lost Pashtun relatives house. In the midst of North West Frontier Province antecdotes and a historical discussion on Afridis tribes and the region (I heart the Great Game)
To be continued... Alright I now have a visa to enter China for the next 6 months.
I was given an absolute mountain of chapli kebabs free of charge. Basically they're running a bit of a free period to attract mostly Pashtun customers but I just happened to show up right on time. They serve the best chapli kebabs I have ever had. They were also making incredible (veeeery thin) Peshwari naan with fresh slices of garlic, though the authentic version won't be complete until the oven is finished. The one I was given was a bit closer to a perfectly made yet incredibly thin normal naan while the finished product is supposed to more closely resemble the outrageously large flat breads that you'd find in Iranian establishments. As a whole the food is pretty close in its spicing and what not to Iranian and Afghan food. They have brown basmati rice, Afghan pilau, etc. On the other hand, the kebabs are a much stronger sign of the sub-continent (and they're probably the spiciest thing on the menu. They're not big on spice. They use a similar amount of dried fruit as Kashmiris btw.)
So in a nut shell the place opens on this coming Tuesday and it looks to be incredible. It's very small inside, but I'd love to get a chowdown together and I'm going to post on the Facebook group regarding just that ASAP. One thing that I am set on getting in the future is their whole lamb, arranged with all fixings. 150 pounds... One can dream.
The staff are the nicest and most hospitable guys I've ever encountered since Thattukada by the way. Absolutely amazing.


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Economies of scale
|This article is part of WikiProject Definitions. Consider editing to improve it. View articles referencing this definition.
Economies of scale is an economic term describing a business model where the long-run average cost curve declines as production increases, or in a simple example explaining the principal, where a manufacturing company saves money as it produces higher quanties of its product, as in all business areas, 'the more you buy, the more you save'.
An example is that of a private soft drinks manufacturer. The more orders that the manufacturer recieves, the more savings it makes, as it will in turn get cheaper prices for the materials it needs to produce its drinks (e.g. plastic, aluminium, sugar) as it will be buying them in larger quantities and receiving discounts, the manufacturing company in turn would give its customers cheaper prices for the more orders for drinks they make for this very reason, as they will gain the discounts, they can pass a saving onto their customers, making themselves stronger, a more respected company from its suppliers as it is buying in higher volumes and its turnover becomes higher. All these factors contribute to the benefits of economies of scale..
Another example of this can be found in the telecommunications industry. To service a single phone in a town costs a huge amount of money. Lines must be laid, towers constructed, and other infrastructure purchased to hook the phone up to local and long-distance lines. When the company is servicing a thousand phones in the town, however, the cost per phone of all the infrastructure is significantly lowered as the lines are already laid and the infrastucture is set, so it makes sense for the telecoms company to have all of its lines/infrastucture to be used fully, rather than lay there redundant.
Because the phone infrastructure is so costly for a small company to set up, it may be most efficient for the entire town to be served by a single phone company. This company would then be known as a natural monopoly. In fact, a natural monopoly as a result of economies of scale is exactly the contention made about AT&T prior to the 1974 United States Department of Justice antitrust suit against the company.
Economies of scale are also present in businesses like software that have high fixed costs for marketing and development but a very low marginal cost for distribution. Naturally these lead to questions of monopoly (see Microsoft (MSFT) and Google (GOOG)).
Corporations incur fixed costs when buying heavy machinery, buildings, or other large purchases. A fixed cost is called 'fixed' because when production increases in the short run, new buildings and machines are not immediately needed. Because fixed costs are not tied to production, firms have an incentive to produce as much as possible (assuming they can sell their product). Intuitively, a large factory should produce a large number of units to minimize its fixed cost per unit. Say that an automobile factory costs 1 million dollars. If it only produces 1000 cars, then its Fixed Cost Per Unit is 1 million dollars divided by 1000 cars, or $1000/Car.
If the factory produces 8000 cars, however, its Fixed Cost Per Unit is 1 million dollars divided by 8000 cars, or $125 per car. By producing 7000 more cars, the firm gets an 88% fixed cost reduction per car.
This graph illustrates that increased production reduces fixed costs per unit.
With fewer fixed costs per unit, firms can afford to lower per unit prices. If fixed costs are very significant to a particular firm's industry, then firms who mass produce efficiently can cut costs, extract revenues, lower prices, and therefore capture market share. Higher market share and higher revenues mean more money to spend on machinery, and expand the firm. This in turn allows further cost cutting, higher production, and the development of better products. In the long run, firms which effectively mass produce take over industries dominated by high fixed costs.
This is known as an economy of scale.
The following graph shows that success in an industry with high fixed costs is self-compounding.
But how can you tell if an industry is dominated by fixed costs?
Say you buy a building to start a restaurant. Even as business starts picking up, you do not need to buy a new building. Rather you need to buy more ingredients and hire more cooks (these purchases are considered Variable Costs).
People frequent restaurants because of good food, good service, convenience or other more perverse incentives like attractive waitresses. Good food, service, and convenience can be provided by good chefs, fresh ingredients, attentive servers, and efficient bus boys. Hiring the staff and buying ingredients are considered variable costs because the number of employees you need varies with your number of daily customers.
The building the restaurant is in, while important, does not define the quality of the restaurant's actual business. Because the variable costs like buying ingredients are more important to the restaurant industry than fixed costs like rent, economies of scale rarely arise. People going to restaurants expect to pay extra for their food because of the service and the taste, not because of the quality of machinery in the kitchen, or the size of the restaurant. Prices do not need to be extremely low to draw customers. Because fixed costs and low-ball pricing schemes do not dominate the restaurant industry's business, you do not see economies of scale.
On the other hand, think of the low-quality snack food industry. People looking to buy salty, fatty snacks are clearly not seeking a candlelit dining setting. Rather, they are looking to pay the lowest price for the highest short term gratification. Chefs do not prepare Cheez-Its, but rather large machines do. Machines allow major snack food conglomerates like Kraft Foods (KFT) to make tasty treats at an extremely low price. Better machines mean better made and more plentiful snacks, which mean lower pricing, greater market share, and higher revenue. Fixed costs and low-ball pricing schemes do tend to dominate the low-quality snack food industry, and so you see economies of scale.
These examples show us that the industries in which economies of scale arise are those that define their business by the use of heavy machinery, large factories, and price cutting. Price cutting strategies generally imply lower quality products. Any industry that specializes in the sale of luxury goods or services at a premium is less likely to mass produce its products, and therefore less likely to have fixed costs as the dominant business expense, and less likely to develop economies of scale.


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Great Connectivity Expectations
Keys to unlocking the most value from new e-rate funding. GUEST COLUMN | by Jason King As many children and teachers head back to school, they are bringing with them a plethora of wireless devices to use as educational tools … Continue reading
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Marty Stuart Coming To Stanley Theater [VIDEO]
Marty Stuart had quite a run of hits in the early 90's with songs such as "Hillbilly Rock" and "Tempted" cracking the Country Top 10. Since then the 5-time Grammy Award winner has taken his guitar and mandolin virtuosity into the realm of bluegrass music and become a staple of that circuit. Marty will bring his skills to the Stanley Theater in Utica for what promises to be a rousing show Sunday, November 10, and bring a very special guest with him.
Marty will be joined by Roger McGuinn, lead singer and guitarist for the legendary rock band the Byrds. The show, sponsored by MWPAI, will start at 7:30. Ticket information can be found here. Check out the video of Marty and Roger performing the classic Byrds hit "Turn, Turn, Turn".
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NewswireToday - /newswire/ -
Ahmedabad, India, 2006/03/14 - Current trend in the IT Industry is that most of the IT companies are finding overseas service providers for the development purpose..
Most organizations distinguish the many benefits of buying software applications from overseas rather than developing them onshore. It is marked that Software Outsourcing is replacing In-House services as more and more IT development jobs are sent overseas for the development purposes. The fact is, by obtaining packaged applications or by utilizing applications that service providers create, host, and make accessible over the Web, organizations can obtain effective business solutions with the advantages of standardization and quality. IT Outsourcing has changed the way of business and thinking of the global world by providing these many benefits. In this way, organizations can keep up with of the modernizations developed by focused specialists.
Despite those benefits, custom-built applications development is still very much a part of the onshore development. Organizations in many sectors use well over half of their applications development budgets on custom software, used largely to improve, support, and control customized systems and services. For large organizations in competitive environment, fast-moving industries like telecommunications, media, financial sectors, high tech service sector, and pharmaceuticals, those expenses can run into hundreds of millions of dollars for the development purpose. Even when an organization utilizes off-the-shelf applications services, it often customizes these applications, typically by adding modules that facilitate a unique capability.
Software Outsourcing
Yet in Software Outsourcing, some pioneering organizations have found a way to gain the advantages of packaged software in a customized-applications arena as a part of their IT Outsourcing. An approach some organizations have utilized to turn components of custom-applications support system into packaged activities engages standardizing the safeguarding, supporting, and software-management actions that groups of applications share and services. The upside of this attitude is now quite clear and specific for Software Outsourcing. One organization that adopted these support and maintenance applications decreased spending on applications maintenance almost by 30% amounting to 60% to them of the whole applications budget for the single project.
Written by / Agency / Source: TatvaSoft - Custom Software Development India
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text: Konrad, Since I've always respected your opinion, I really would like to know what it would take for you to 1) recommend and 2) require your users to install something like (or a reduced subset of something like) scipy. What threshold of "easy to install" do you have -- if you can define it. Also, What platforms do your users use? -Travis Oliphant


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Relax, Renew, Recharge, Reclaim
...A cozy, quaint studio available as your own private sanctuary.
RENEW During your treatment it's time to slough off the negative! We're not just talking about Lisa exfoliating dead skin cells during your revitalizing facial! Don't forget to BREATHE.
RECHARGE Towards the end of your treatment you will feel re-balanced and re-energized, able to take on whatever the world throws your way! Okay, maybe tomorrow, after you recover from feeling like you're floating on a cloud.
RECLAIM Walk away from Face Value feeling invigorated and inspired! Maybe you've freshened up your appearance, had a facial to reveal beautiful, healthy new skin or treated yourself to a Reiki Session, relieving stress, ridding tension and reviving your body. We're touched you trusted Face Value to pamper yourself; hopefully it encourages you to get back in touch with your youthfulness, reconnect with wellness and awaken your vigor. LIVE! And don't forget to take good care of yourself!


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At first, I wasn't impressed. Oh, whoopee, this gizmo is going to buzz me when I walk out the door without my keys. Then the folks at Phone Halo happened to mention that if you keep going, it will go on to text you to tell you where you left your keys, post it on your facebook page, and twitter it out to all your friends. Finally, a good use of social media. (Of course, if you left them in a place you shouldn't have been in the first places—maybe not so good.)
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DEMO Spring: Neverend Media Says E-books Could be Better
Presenter says digital data shouldn't go out of date
DEMO Spring: VenueGen Launches Virtual Meeting Technology
Web conferencing that takes a page from video games
DEMO Spring: Thickbutton's Idea is a Twist on Word Prediction
It doesn't try to predict what letters you want, instead it eliminates letters you won't need
DEMO Spring: Add Some Lasers to Your Cash Register
This system uses lasers to identify loose hardware like nuts and bolts. It could make those Home Depot lines fly
DEMO Spring: Flinc Puts a High Tech Twist on Hitchhiking
Asks digital ride sharers to pull out a smart phone instead of a thumb
DEMO Spring: Quantum Dots About to Move into Camera Sensors
InVisage Technologies unveils a new digital film
Metamaterials Arrive in Cellphones
LG Chocolate BL40 is first cellphone to use a metamaterials antenna
GaAsing Up Cellphones
Gallium arsenide transistors could power tiny, blazingly fast multimedia handsets
Intel Tries, Tries Again
Having come up empty with its 2.5G-cellphone chip, the chip giant needs to score big with its 3G alliance
Cellphones Pose No Gas Station Hazard
Closing in on the perfect code
Turbo codes, which let engineers pump far more error-free data through a channel, will be the key to the next generation of multimedia cellphones
When Less Is More
A cellphone-PDA disappoints, while a simpler camera-phone delights
Human Travel Patterns Surprisingly Predictable
Cellphone signals track travel routines
Here Comes The Wallet Phone
Japan's DoCoMo gets ready to put your money where your mouth is
The Universal Handset
Software-defined radio will let cellphones speak Wi-Fi, 3G, WiMax, and more
Iridium Will Host Science Payloads
New satellites will give space and wattage for Earth-sensing experiments
Machine Chameleon
A sneak peek inside the handheld of the future
€716,414,273 Mobile Phone Bill: That's a Whole Lot of Talking
Manager of French distillery doesn't remember making that many phone calls
Superaccurate GPS Chips Coming to Smartphones in 2018
Broadcom has released the first mass-market GPS chips that use newer satellite signals to boost accuracy to 30 centimeters
A Solid-State Fridge in Your Pocket
Electrocaloric effect turns exotic plastics into silent, efficient cooling devices


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Search is easy. Just how hard can a CREATE FULLTEXT INDEX can be, right? Except that won't scale. And it won't be easy to tweak either. And don't even get me started on relevance. (And no, relevance isn't something only Google can have, because they enslaved every scientist working on that.)
Andrew Aksyonoff
CEO/CTO, Sphinx Search
Andrew is the founder and creative force behind Sphinx, an open-source full-text search engine designed specifically for performance, scalability, and relevance.


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The Faulty Theology of the Ezzos
I am a Christian parent. The self-giving, self-sacrificing life and teachings of Jesus Christ inspire my parenting choices. My beliefs motivated me to breastfeed both of my children and to practice attachment and gentle parenting. These parenting choices are not only good, but right. I can't imagine Jesus ignoring God's created order by using formula, spanking children, letting them cry without consolation or placing his own wants above their needs.
Yet, Christian parenting is often associated with practices that are at best indifferent, and at worst hostile to the needs of children. The most infamous parenting advice comes from Gary and Anne Marie Ezzo and the Growing Family International (GFI) organization. Their courses, Growing Kids God's Way and Preparation for Parenting are taught in many churches, and their Babywise publications are sold in bookstores. Others have expressed concern about how following the Ezzo regimen affects the physical and emotional development of children. This article briefly critiques Ezzo information, using theology and the virtues and values of a Christian lifestyle.
First, the fundamental problem is that God's Way of parenting is equated with adherence to a schedule and following a proscribed list of dos and don'ts. By implying that there is a morally right formula for perfect parenting, the Ezzos give moms and dads detailed instructions on what they may and may not do. If parents follow the instructions, they are doing a good job; if not, they are being too permissive, which will cause their children to be self-centered.
How does such an approach measure up theologically? A basic tenet of Christianity is that Jesus knows each of us better than we know ourselves. He extends his personal love and care based on what we need. Isn't that the definition of the perfect parent? Does this suggest that there is or should be a uniform, precise way to help our children mature into loving, caring and Godly people? We all know that parents and children are different blends of personalities and temperaments. What works for one family may not work for another.
The second concern is that children are treated as burdens that need to be managed, subjugated and controlled. Children are allowed to eat when it's OK with the parents. Children must sleep when the parents want them to. Catering to the convenience of parents rather than the real needs of the children and family, Ezzo parenting teaches that children are takers, and this taking must be controlled and limited. Is this how Christ understood children? Jesus accepted children as blessings, with much to teach us all. In three of the four Gospels, he tells us that the trustful dependence of children is necessary to enter the kingdom of God (see Matthew 18:3, Mark 10:14 and Luke 18:16). Children are blessings who need to be appreciated, loved and nurtured.
In addition, family life based on the virtues and values that Christians hold dear is cooperative, not competitive. Authentic Christian parenting focuses on the lavish giving of time, attention and love; not hoarding, protecting and rationing. Christianity and our own human experience teach us that the more we give of ourselves, the more we receive. Rather than view each other as competitors, families should work together to make sure the needs of all are met.
The third problem with Ezzo parenting is that it works against, rather than with, the wisdom of how God created the mother/baby relationship. This cannot be God's Way. One example is the Ezzo treatment of the breastfeeding relationship. God created breastfeeeding as the way to nourish and nurture his children. It is a choice that should be promoted, encouraged and supported by any church or organization that calls itself Christian. Formula was not created by God to improve the lives of his children. Formula-feeding was created by adults for the enrichment and convenience of adults. Except in extreme and exceptional cases, formula feeding offers no benefit to the child and is not in the child's best interest.
If breastfeeding is a
choice with its basis in God's wisdom, then there is also the moral
obligation to do what we reasonably can to make the nursing relationship
work. The Parent Directed Feeding (PDF) approach and ignoring a baby's
cries, both taught in GFI/Ezzo programs, put the nursing relationship at
risk. There has been considerable concern with these practices
As a Christian and mother, I find the Ezzo approach offensive. To use the Bible to rationalize parenting choices that are not in the best interests of the physical, psychological and emotional development of God's children is a distortion of scripture and contrary to the way a wise and all-loving God created us to be. I encourage all Christian parents to pray and carefully discern any parenting advice that contradicts the loving, self-giving example of Jesus Christ.
Mary P. Walker firstname.lastname@example.com , is a nursing mother with two children. She holds a Masters Degree in Religious education and is a writer and breastfeeding advocate. Her book, The Christian Family's Guide to Breastfeeding will be available next year. Please visit her website at http://www.christianparent.com .
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WASHINGTON (Apr. 16)
State Department sources made it known today that Israel is being urged to seek a solution of the Akaba Gulf issue by respecting international legality but at all costs avoiding the use of force.
According to the State Department, it is in Israel's best interest to seek international legal definition and backing of its Akaba shipping rights. It was indicated that the United States would support Israel in taking legal steps to ascertain and protect shipping rights. However, the United States has cautioned that it will not countenance use of force by Israel to decide the Akaba issue.
Lebanese Ambassador Victor A. Khouri yesterday registered an official protest with the State Department against the passage of an American-owned oil tanker, the Kern Hills, through the Gulf of Akaba to the Israel port of Elath. Mr. Khouri protested verbally to Lampton Berry, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs. He reiterated similar protests by Saudi Arabia and Egypt asserting that the Straits of Tiran are "Arab territorial waters."
(The Danish freighter Briggite Toft left Elath this week-end for Ceylon and Burma with a cargo of Dotash and cement in the first round-trip through the Tiran Straits since Israel smashed the Egyptian blockade at Sharm el Sheikh during the Sinai campaign. The ship is expected back in two months.)
U.S. Government officials said today that the United States still supports the principle of innocent passage in the Gulf of Akaba. They emphasized that the Eisenhower Administration will continue to uphold the principle unless there is a contrary ruling by the International Court of Justice at The Hague. The State Department would like to get such a ruling to settle the issue, but Israeli sources said they did not want a court action and did not expect the United States to start action for it.
Meanwhile, it was learned here today that the U.S. has notified Saudi Arabian officials that it regards the Gulf of Akaba as an international waterway and that Israeli ships cannot be denied use of the gulf. American officials said today that this view was put forth to Saudi Arabian officials when King Saud recently visited this country. Saudi Arabia is said to have argued that the gulf is a part of Saudi Arabian territorial waters and that Israeli ships would continue to be barred from the waterway.


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Perfect summer weather brought out a huge "Kids Night" crowd to the Princeton Speedway on Friday, July 18. At intermission, children and parents walked on the "fastest quarter mile on dirt" track to meet the drivers while grabbing a treat or two. It was also bike giveaway night at the Speedway.
When the features got rolling, Justin Pogones of Zimmerman solidified his lead in the Street Stock standings with a win that night. In Super Stocks, Mike Loomis of Columbus advanced close to season-leader Chris Wark with a second-place finish behind Dave Mass of East Bethel. Keith Thell of Foley stretched his lead in Mod 4s with another victory night.
JULY 18 results: WISSOTA Modifieds: Feature- Eric Martini, Shawn Fletcher, Dave Mass, Larry Zeller, Jeremy Nelson, Dustin Nelson, Toby Patchen, Mike Kyllonen, Tony Proell, Todd Lofgren, Andy Jones, Mark Blood.
Season leaders w/five race nights remaining: Zeller 402 pts, Fletcher 398, D.Nelson 391, Shane Sabraski 314, Proell 303.
WISSOTA Super Stocks: Feature- Dave Mass, Mike Loomis, Dan Gullikson, Denis Czech, Matthew Dibb, Josh Anderson, Chris Wark.
Season leaders: Wark 398 pts, Loomis 396, Dibb 363, Gullickson 360, Sabraski 303.
WISSOTA Midwest Modifieds: Feature- Bud Martini, Brandon Mehrwerth, Denis Czech, Jason Hall, Kyle Matuska, David Siercks, Kyle Wehking, Ryan Putnam, Billy Kendall, Megan Schmidt, Behn Mensen, Travis Taylor, Colbie Gallipo, Gino Fontecchio, Josh Paulson, Jeremy Nelson, Chad Fouquette, Shawn Fletcher.
WISSOTA Street Stocks: Feature- Justin Pogones, Amanda Milbrandt, Kurt Becken, Ryan Kostreba, Kris Peterson, Davey Kruchten, Durrand Peterson, Russell Peterson, Alex Gunderson, Anita Hillebregt, Brad Schmidt.
Season leaders: Pogones 475, Kostreba 454, K. Peterson 422, Milbrandt 407, R. Peterson 380.
WISSOTA Mod Fours: Feature- Keith Thell, Mitch Hribar, Jerry Esler, Brandon Lindquist, Tommy Bawden, Kyle Thell, Chad Funt, Dwight Gilyard, Ross Mead, Abby Garin, Jess Geesey, Zac Hribar, Trevor Roediger, Courtney Murray.
Season leaders: Keith Thell 427 pts, Kyle Thell 352, Lindquist 338, Hribar 333, Mead 320.
Princeton Hornets: Feature- Quain Busitzky, Lexy Kastner, Matt Dibb, Leslie Crow, Jasmin Matthewman, Eric Pfundt, Erik Gruhlke, Brennan Gave, Jake Bayerl, Ariel Mueller.
Season leaders: Dannie Burhholder 452 pts, Gruhlke 432, Matthewman 422, Kastner 408, Bayerl 397.
* Next race night with 2nd annual Car Show: July 25, 7 p.m.


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hyperacid is a valid word in this word list. For a definition, see the external dictionary links below.
The word "hyperacid" uses 9 letters: A C D E H I P R Y.
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text:
- Overview
This product is no longer available. We will continue to carry options, accessories and supplies for this product for as long as we can. Please contact RACO for availability and pricing or for a comparable replacement product.
Suggested Replacement:
Xenon 1900 Area-Imaging Scanner
Honeywell Scanning & Mobility (formerly Hand Held Products)
(Formerly known as Hand Held Product IT4600 series)
The Hand Held Products 4600g area imager (now Honeywell 4600g imager) combines the versatility of area imaging with the speed and cost of linear scanning for retail and commercial applications. Powered by Adaptus™ imaging, the Hand Held Products 4600g is full featured, fast, and cost effective.
Hand Held Product 4600g Area Imager Highlights
- Combines the ability to quickly and easily scan and take digital pictures into one handheld device
- Durable construction contains no moving parts and is backed by a 3 year warranty
- Features the omni-directional scanning of 1D, PDF417, Postal, Matrix, and EAN.UCC Composite Codes, and OCR Fonts
RACO Recommended Use for Hand Held Product 4600g Imager:Retail, Warehousing, Healthcare
The Honeywell 4600g area imager combines the versatility of area imaging with the speed and cost of linear scanning for retail and commercial applications. Powered by Adaptus™ imaging, the Hand Held Products 4600g is full featured, fast, and cost effective.
Current and future retail and commercial applications will involve much more than linear bar codes. The omnidirectional reading capability of the Hand Held Products 4600g allows fast and easy reading of EAN-UCC composite codes, PDF417, Matrix codes and Postal codes. Simply point and shoot. There is no need to align a scan line or wait for a raster beam to open up.
Whether capturing a signature as proof of delivery, taking a picture for identification, or electronic data storage, image capture is an important part of current and future solutions. The Adaptus powered Hand Held Products 4600g is equipped with a fourth generation imaging for best-in-class image quality and image transfer speed, all at very economical prices. Image capture has become a mainstream application requirement. Trust HHP to provide the industry's best imaging.
With no moving parts the Hand Held Products 4600g is as durable as it is versatile. Hand Held Products has a reputation for products that are tough as nails and the Hand Held Products 4600g is no exception, and will provide years of service at a low cost.
The Hand Held Products 4600g's Adaptus power plant allows it to serve your diverse needs today while providing additional functionality for the imaging solutions of tomorrow.
Honeywell 4600gHD
Honeywell 4600gHD (High Density) will allow you to extend the superior performance of the Hand Held Products 4600r into new opportunities and markets. While the SF focus is ideal for most retail segments, there are some segments, such as jewelry, electronics and arts/crafts that require reading of high density bar codes at the POS. With the new 4600gHD, you will now be able to provide the 4600r power of Streaming Presentation™ mode and Advanced Illumination along with high density reading for these items. Other key markets demanding a high tolerance to motion along with high density reading capability are Electronics Manufacturing (both device and component level), Healthcare (in-hospital pharmacy med dispensing), and Retail Pharmacy (small mil codes on unit doses). The Honeywell 4600 family of products is proving to be the scanner of choice in a wide variety of applications. Now that the 4600gHD is available, we will expand our leadership position in these important markets.
Honeywell Dolphin 4600gHDH - Disinfectant-Ready Housing:
Disinfectant-ready housing is optimal for environments where scanner must be cleaned frequently with harsh chemicals.
The following cleaning solutions have been tested to assure safe cleaning of your scanner's disinfectant-ready housing. They are the only solutions approved for use with these scanners. Damage caused by the use of cleaners other than those listed below may not be covered by the warranty.
409 Glass and Surface Cleaner
Clorox Bleach
Gentle dish soap and water
Sani-Cloth HB
Sani-Cloth Plus
Virex 256
Windex Blue
- Specifications
Additional Information
Features N/A Spec Sheet N/A Manufacturer Part Number N/A RACO Part Number N/A Manufacturer Honeywell Standard Memory N/A Flash Memory N/A Screen Resolution N/A Display Color N/A Scanner Type N/A Data Collection Type N/A Product Color N/A Resolution N/A Max Print Width N/A Max Roll Diameter N/A Max Label Width N/A Interface N/A Product Type N/A Connectivity N/A Scanner Capability N/A Image Sensor N/A Operating System N/A Print Color N/A Obsolete 1


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It only takes a minute to get started. Fill out our uncomplicated sign up form and login to the website.
This step is discretionary but will seriously raise your chances of your profile being viewed by interested members. Tell people about yourself, your hobbies and upload some good photos of yourself.
Utilise our website's advanced search to find members who satisfy your criteria. Or just scan through listings and find people that interest you.
Identified someone who appeals to you? Drop them a line or just a wink and see what develops from there. With a little luck you'll be on your way to a lifetime of happiness.
It doesn't take long


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|HEAV'S Virginia Homeschool Update
February 13, 2013
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Bounty of Blessings
Three Hours – Thirty Giveaways
Join us on Facebook–along with our co-hosts (and 2013 convention speakers)–next Tuesday, February 19, at 8 p.m. for a fun "Bounty of Blessings" celebration!
Celebrating 30 Years
Win a Free Book – Just One Day Left
February's Bounty of Blessings' giveaway is happening! Go to the blog NOW to comment and have a chance to win a hardbound copy of Love and Respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs. The winner will be announced tomorrow–February 14.
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Earn a University of Virginia Engineering Degree from Home
Thinking about studying to become an engineer and earning a degree from a well-known school? The UVA Engineers PRODUCED in Virginia program can save as much as 50% on your total college education. Start with a Virginia Community College degree and then transfer to the on-line IVA Engineering PRODUCED program.
Learn Math Fast System Teaches Years of Math in Months
Does math bring tears to your homeschool? When it's time to start over from the beginning and re-teach math, read the Learn Math Fast System. In about a year, your child can be up to 9th grade level with confidence and a smile. Coupon: HEAV gives $10 off at www.LearnMathFastBooks.com.
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Convention News and Updates
Convention Registration will be opening in late February with a three-day, member-only special of just $59 for the entire family–that includes tickets to hear the Duggars! Besides the humongous Used Curriculum Sale, graduation, teen programs, and extra-large Exhibit Hall, look for fantastic workshops with tracks on special needs, raising boys–plus a whole lot more!
New Convention Speaker
Meet author and founder of Math-U-See, Steve Demme! A former math teacher who has taught all levels of math, Steve is also the founder of Building Faith Families and the father of four now-grown sons who were homeschooled. As a pastor, counselor, teacher, husband, and father, he speaks on both the "heart" and "head" aspects of homeschooling.
Check out Steve's workshops this year:
The Family that Stays Together Stays Together
Our Father Who Art in Heaven
Seeing Fractions Is Understanding Fractions
Elementary Algebra Taught Concretely
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An HEAV-Sponsored Event!
February 15 and February 22 – Petersburg
Jump right into history as park educators deliver informative programs using fun, participatory learning techniques. In programs specifically designed for children in grades 3 through 12, students will participate in a military drill, study how free and enslaved Virginia families lived 150 years ago, and come face to face with the experiences of Civil War soldiers. You won't want to miss this!
An HEAV-Sponsored Event!
Thursday, February 28 – Norfolk
Visit the newest exhibit, Our Mighty Seaport; enjoy the aquariums, weather exhibits, touch tanks, and Navy exhibits; and watch a movie in the large-screen theater! Educational programming–included in your discount admission ticket–is also offered throughout the day. And don't forget to visit the last–and largest–Navy battleship, the U.S.S. Wisconsin!
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HEAV is looking for an expert in customizations and CRM integration who can help us with the continuing development of our new database. We also need someone who can help train staff and volunteers and help build reports. If you have the necessary skills and are willing to help out, or if you have questions about our needs, please e-mail Anne Miller at email@example.com
Calling All Bloggers!
HEAV needs help getting the word out about the convention! Even if your blog doesn't have a huge following, you can help spread the word by posting convention info and links. A special bloggers' meet-up is scheduled at the convention for all participants. If interested, contact Maureen Bittner at email@example.com with your blog address, any available stats, and a brief bio.
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Article of the Week
Counting Pencils and the Days until Spring – Molly Green
This homeschooling mom suggests that, after a brief post-holiday rest, an inventory of physical supplies (office supplies, arts-and-crafts supplies, and more) aids her preparation for spring cleaning. It is also part of her routine reassessment of their overall homeschool situation as they begin to look toward next year. She reports happily finding a number of things she didn't know they had, thus saving the cost of buying more needlessly.
Homeschool Q&A
Q. If my child goes back to public school, can I take her out and homeschool her again if it doesn't work out? What should I expect?
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1) Homeschool Items
1.1 Homeschool Day at Regent University – Virginia Beach – Register by February 19
1.2 Richmond Spirit Girls Varsity Soccer – Mechanicsville – Register by February 28
1.3 Nature Investigations – Multiple Locations – First Deadline Is March 3
1.4 Early Bird Registration: Generation Joshua iGovern East – Purcellville – Best Price by April 5
1.5 Aretè Christian Academy Open House – Mechanicsville – Register by April 9
1.6 The Teaching Home: Presidents Day and Black History Month
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2) General Interest Items
View All General Interest Items
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3.1 Christian Resources: Black Christianity Before the Civil War
3.2 Thrifty Ideas: Back to Basics Mini-Challenge
3.3 Preschool and Kindergarten: Dramatic Play Ideas
3.4 Science and History: Old Time Radio: "Adventures in Research"
3.5 Computers: "Alt Codes" Chart for Special Keyboard Characters
3.6 History: Colonial Clothing – an Interactive Game and How to "Fake" a Costume
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4) Parting Thought – The Valentine Verse
For God so loVed the world,
That He gAve
His onLy
That whoever
Believes In Him
Should Not perish,
But have Everlasting life.
– John 3:16. Your children may enjoy drawing a decorated version of this verse and sharing God's love with someone you know.
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5) Worth Repeating
"You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving."
– Amy Carmichael (1867-1951), missionary to India. Miss Carmichael rescued many children from mistreatment and founded an orphanage for them. She is the author of many poems, some of which have been set to music. Read a brief biography and hear some of the songs created from her poems here.
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6) Verse of the Week
We have thought of thy loving-kindness, O God, in the midst of thy temple.
– Psalm 48:9 (KJV)
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7) Homeschool Laugh of the Week


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University of Minnesota, Morris
January 29, 2007
Members Present: Lowell Rasmussen, Sarah Mattson, Joe Basel, Sara Haugen, Dan Moore,
Maddy Maxeiner, Jonathan Bringewatt, Sharon Van Eps, Pareena
Lawrence, Bryan Herrmann, Pete Wcykoff
Guests: Carol Marxen, Sandy Olson-Loy, Jacquie Johnson
Minutes from January 22, 2007 approved as presented.
Update on External Relations and Fund Development
Maddy reported that as of today, new gift commitments to UMM this fiscal year total $860,000. The total for last fiscal year, ending June 30, was $1.1 million, which means we are tracking positively for a good fundraising year. Faculty and staff have contributed $125,000 this year; alumni another $680,000. Most of these new gift commitments are for scholarships and student support. Annual giving is tracking ahead of last year. Compared to the same period last year, the total number of annual gifts received is up 18%.
Looking ahead, she anticipates a lot of excitement in External Relations and also projects a lot of potential with the possibility of bringing all of the External Relations staff to one area in the Community Services Building. As we look ahead to the next campaign, we will need a good process of defining priorities on our campus that includes a fairly wide, inclusive conversation with the campus and CRPC will play an important role in that. Additionally, the Chancellor's role is very important and if positioned correctly can play a strong role externally with donors. She hopes CRPC will understand how time-consuming this will be for the Chancellor. She also believes its time for UMM to develop some type of External Advisory Group because those groups can be instrumental during the campaign. We would want to make clear that this would not be a governing group. Chancellor Johnson added that their role would be different from the Alumni Board but they would surely be linked. It's a good chance for a group to connect and do some networking but we would want to make sure we have something for them to do. Pete wondered if this group could be called a Board of Visitors. Andy noted that this idea hasn't always worked well in the past and we would want to think very carefully about it. Jacquie reported that as she and Maddy meet with donors, there appears to be an interest and we have a very talented group of people who would like to be involved and want to have some connection. Their charge would have to be very clear –what it is and what it isn't – we want to use their support, knowledge and expertise. Andy suggested starting out relatively small, perhaps 12 committed people, who could stay with us for a couple of year.
Maddy will continue to look for support from this committee when building a Communications budget and looking at the current External Relations structure. She also distributed a job description for the Major Gifts Officer position.
Capital Request Proposal
Jacquie distributed an outline of the Capital Budget Request for 2008 and reported that she and Lowell met with Robert Jones last week. The TC think we have some very good ideas but we
need to be mindful of their reaction to the idea of conferencing at UMM and have a fully developed plan. The TC budget director said he would not take forward the request for a residence facility. Andy suggested we provide of history of the conference events, i.e. the banking institute. Sharon suggested using the term conference and workshop center. Pete suggested looking at what kind of revenue this would make as part of a non-core mission. Jacquie said that's exactly the information we need to have and that facilities and programming are tied to our core mission. Lowell added that currently the food service contract has the entire building and hopes that the new contract fee will come down thus lowering the cost per student. Sara mentioned how important it is to get area and statewide kids to UMM. She wondered how many groups have contacted Judy Riley about holding a workshop or summer conference. Jacquie added that a public institution needs to be available to the public and we are not serving the public and region in the summer. Lowell added that although this is not a bonding year, our request would become a placeholder. CRPC approved to move forward.
Minutes prepared by Carrie Grussing


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After attending Jack Rose's memorial show at Brooklyn's Issue Project Room, it dawned on me just how widespread his influence was. While many of his peers are evolving the tradition of the Takoma-esque guitar style, Rose was really beginning to spearhead the movement and take it to the next level by incorporating early bluegrass, droning psychedelia, pre-war blues, and virtuosic ragas. His track-record is a rather logical progression from the minimalist droning of Pelt to his intensely complex, fluid finger-picking style of recent years, but the one thing that tied all these threads together was his respect for the wood that lay beneath his arm. He kept things simple, and people related to that. Because his recordings spoke so simply to his audience, Rose could open for Sonic Youth or Peter Walker and it would be the same experience. His final opus, Luck in the Valley, expands on his previous palette and culminates the sounds that have been gracefully flowing from his fingers for the past decade as a solo artist.
A number of the tracks are covers, a testament to Rose's respect for his peers both alive and passed. He had a way of picking covers; whether it was his offshoot album with the legendary South Virginian Black Twig Pickers or his Dr. Ragtime recordings, everything he touched was full of sincerity. The first cover here is "Saint Louis Blues" (the W.C. Handy ragtime standard), a song that's been heard worldwide by the likes of Louis Armstrong, Stevie Wonder, and The Flamin' Groovies. The track speaks across generations, something Rose himself did a hell of a job achieving, and he does so admirably here too. He also takes on Blind Blake's "West Coast Blues," a song written by a man who very few knew anything about. Perhaps the greatest honor to a traditional tune is to add it to your repertoire and pass it on, and Rose kept this tradition alive with style.
The original arrangements on Luck in the Valley are nothing to shy away from either. The album opener, "Blues for Percy Danforth," is in honor of the percussive, bone-playing technique master, creating a Pelt-like drone-wash of mouth harp and slide guitar, with the quiet sound of Rose shifting in his seat. He settles into a consistent run with the Appalachia-stomper "Lick Mountain Ramble" and then knocks the ragtime blues out of the park with "When the Tailgate Drops, The Bullshit Stops," a track he regularly performed with Harmonica Dan, Nathan Bowles, and The Black Twig Pickers. "Moon in the Gutter" is arguably the album's peak, a beautiful Fahey-style burner that contains a guitar/banjo duo that is musically simplistic, but emotionally complex due to its trance-inducing nature.
From firsthand accounts by his friends and peers, it's clear that Rose had an awe-inspiring presence. Whether he was sitting hunched behind his 12- and 6-string beauties, cooking and drinking with his loved ones, or spreading the word about his current favorite record off the shelf, he did it all with passion. Luck in the Valley is the last of his contributions, but his presence will be felt through his recordings in the years ahead. He will be missed.
More about: Jack Rose


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Having the major sweet tooth that I have, I knew that we would be jumping on the trend of having a dessert option at our wedding in addition to our cake. After a significant amount of research (I think at one point "wedding frozen yogurt bar" was my most popular google search), we landed on mini gourmet ice cream sandwiches. As if I wasn't happy enough when I saw the adorable cart that the Sugar Wagon offers, I was completely sold after we had our tasting with them. I nearly melted when I tried the gingersnap cookie with lemon ice cream. That immediately made the menu. We also went with chocolate chip with salted caramel ice cream (their staple) and brownie with peanut butter ice cream for my chocolate and peanut butter loving hubby.
Needless to say, I was very excited when the sugar wagon pulled into our reception.
I was also very excited to shove my face with some more sweetness!
I think our guests also enjoyed taking advantage of a little extra sweetness.
Especially my sisters, who share my genetic sweet tooth!
One of the added bonuses of these delicious treats was that they gave everyone a nice sugar rush to keep them on the dance floor all night!
Did you have multiple desserts at your reception?
Are you a savory or a sweet person?
*All photos by Lotus Blossom Photography
An Ode to My Bouquet (and the 'Bee)
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LOS ANGELES, CA – We're not sure why this is news, but it's got people talking so we're going to tell you about it.
Hot mess Lindsay Lohan is expected back in front of an LA judge. The California courts have got to be getting tired of the once A-list actress' antics.
Reports say she's being charged with lying to police after she told cops her assistant was the one driving her Porsche when it crashed into an 18-wheeler on a California highway, back in June.
Her assistant and several witnesses say that's a bunch of bull!
So, if the Santa Monica City Attorney does file a criminal case, a judge will revoke Lindsay's probation and schedule a full hearing about the violation.
Yeah, because that's just what we need, to hear even 'more' from Lindsay Lohan!


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Matt Bomer Sizzles At USA Network Upfronts, See More From Celebuzz's Instagram! (PHOTOS)
Celebuzz was on the scene Thursday afternoon at the USA Network Upfronts in New York, where we talked to some of the network's biggest stars — everyone from Peter Gallagher, to Mark Feuerstein and Michael Ealy.
We also caught uber-hottie Matthew Bomer, the current star of White Collar, as he quickly made his… More »


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- Multi texture outer
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text: I recently received my Samsung i897 captivate in the mail. But i have noticed that the three main sensors (only ones im aware of) are not working. The accelerometer cannot be detected/is disabled so i cannot turn the phone on its side to write something or take portrait pictures. The proximity sensor doesn't seem to shut the screen off when im in calls and i have occasionally bumbed the screen with my ear switching it to speaker. and the ambient light sensor does change the brightness of the screen even when that option is enabled. I have never owned an android device before but after navigating the settings screen numerous times i did not find any options to turn these sensors on. I'm guessing this is not a hardware issue as it is unlikely that all 3 sensors are damaged on a new phone. I would also like to point out that when i bought the phone it was allready rooted and had no Swype keyboard, samsung apps, widgets or even wallpapers. It is running Andorid 2.1 (Eclair) and i have not installed any apps from anywhere except the andorid market place. I am thinking maybe installing the leaked 2.2 froyo update and this might fix it? Any help on this would be greatly appreciated, Thanks


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Save 30% On Personalized Halloween Gifts
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Unassembled puzzle pieces are placed in a lovely 8"W x 6 1/2"D x 2"H cardboard gift box printed with the same design for a beautiful presentation and protective storage for years to come. Box features a black border around lid and base for a nice finishing touch!


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In a recent Tweet, Rockstar Games has officially announced that Grand Theft Auto V's gameplay reveal trailer is coming quite soon; in fact it's scheduled to launch this morning at 10am EST (3pm GMT /4pm CET).
#GTAV Official Gameplay Video Coming Tmrw. 10am Eastern. http://t.co/DTZc6KvH7a pic.twitter.com/hzSZGA6thZ
— Rockstar Games (@RockstarGames) July 8, 2013
It will definitely be interesting to see GTA V in action, and hopefully the footage will feature highlights on the game's expansive mechanics. Rockstar wasn't at this year's E3 expo, which was disappointing to many, but they'll most likely make up for it in the way of new reveals like these.
Rockstar did open up with their recent "Asked and Answered" Q&A session which was dedicated solely to user-submitted inquiries on GTA V, so we learned a few tidbits from that–including the game's 8GB install requirement and how gamers can interact with GTA V's triumvirate of main characters.
We'll be sure to have updates when the trailer is live later this morning, so stay tuned and be prepared for more GTA V action.
Grand Theft Auto V is slated for a release on Sept. 17, 2013 for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. For more information please visit the game's official website.


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BBC could lose more stars like Jonathan Ross to cuts, says Director General
In a speech given to the James MacTaggart Memorial Lecture in Edinburgh he painted a stark picture of future job losses and slashes to "top talent" pay.
Mr Thompson called uncertainty over whether more big names like Jeremy Clarkson and Gary Linekar would stay at the BBC "gut wrenching".
Mr Thompson said the BBC would need to put more effort in to nurture new talent instead: "Sometimes we will lose established stars as a result. When we do, we will replace them with new talent."
Presenters of the flagship One Show, Christine Bleakley and Adrian Chiles both recently moved to ITV, expecting an increase in pay.
"Achieving a smaller, more efficient BBC is inevitably painful. The BBC will have to become leaner than it's ever been before. As a proportion of spend, overheads are around half what they were in the 1990s. To hit our target, they will need to fall by at least another quarter," said Mr Thompson.
He added that numbers of senior managers would be cut by at least a fifth by the end of 2011.


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With in-depth interviews, focused features and fashion-forward editorials, our print publication features long-form coverage of the topics valued by readers.
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The Audit Commission is considering taking legal action against Somerset's county and district councils in a case which is likely to have wide-ranging implications for how local authorities manage waste from schools and hospitals.
If a legal decision went against us there could be serious implications not just for Somerset county council but for all local authorities
Steve Read, Somerset Waste Partnership
Under Schedule 2 of the Controlled Waste Regulations 1992, waste collection authorities can charge for the collection of certain types of household waste, including some from sources such as universities and camp sites.
Importantly, there is no provision to allow them to charge disposal costs for this material – despite landfill costs rising and the material potentially costing councils hundreds of thousands of pounds to deal with.
Because of this, Defra agreed earlier this year to review the regulations, primarily because it was concerned that if the disposal costs were not borne by the producer, this may discourage them from recycling and reducing their waste in the first place (see letsrecycle.com story). This was welcomed by many councils.
However, at a meeting of the Waste Strategy Board last month (October 22), the department revealed that if any changes to the regulations were made, it had been advised that primary legislation would be needed – which would take several years to come into force. This prompted concern amongst local authorities who wanted to see a "swift resolution" to the issue.
As a result of the delay, the Audit Commission is now considering seeking a Judicial Review against Somerset county and district councils because the councils are currently among a number of local authorities who have been treating certain kinds of Schedule 2 waste as commercial waste and charging for collection, rather than disposing of it for free while the review is undertaken.
This is because their interpretation of the detail of the schedule differs slightly from Defra's.
Somerset has been chosen because there has been an ongoing investigation into the county's policies surrounding Schedule 2 waste since a resident mounted a complaint in 2004 and if it goes to court, this could provide more legal clarity for others.
All parties are trying to find a resolution without a Judicial Review but this has not yet been found.
Speaking to letsrecycle.com this week, a spokesman for the Audit Commission confirmed: "A Judicial Review is under consideration but the Audit Commission is having discussions with the county council and Defra to sort out the problem."
"We can't comment any further at this stage."
Steve Read, who is managing director of the Somerset Waste Partnership (SWP) – which manages waste on behalf of the councils in Somerset – told letsrecycle.com that it was a "very narrow" point of law over which there was a difference of opinion – four words to be precise.
While he said that most of Schedule 2 was uncontroversial, Section 5 states that a charge for collection [only] may be made from 'waste from a residential hostel, a residential home or from premises forming part of a university, school or other educational establishment or forming part of a hospital or nursing home.'
As most of the rest of Schedule 2 refers to where people live, Mr Read said that the SWP and its lawyers had interpreted 'premises forming part of' to mean that only residences which were part of such establishments were included, and that all other waste from the institutions should be treated as commercial waste and charged for in full.
However, Defra claims the law means that all waste arising from educational establishments, hospitals or nursing homes should be entitled to free waste disposal, so long as they form part of the premises (see letsrecycle.com story).
Mr Read said that the SWP was hoping that in the next few weeks Defra would be able to clarify with their lawyers whether there will be a short term option to resolve the 'premises forming part of' issue rather than going to Judicial Review.
Mr Read said: "There is a huge amount of good will to try to find a way to resolve this to avoid costs and a potentially protracted legal process. At the end of the day we think this is the right interpretation of the law.
He added: "If a legal decision went against us there could be serious implications not just for Somerset county council but for all local authorities."
During this month, Defra is holding series of workshops to discuss the Schedule 2 review with stakeholders. These are taking place in Bristol and Leeds. By January or February 2010 it expects to launch a 12-week consultation on a "package of options" to amend the legislation.
By June 2010, it expects to announce the most viable option for change in light of the consultation.


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Chevrolet Repair Questions? Ask a Chevy Mechanic for Answers ASAP
Hello and thank you for using JustAnswer. My name is David and I will do my best to help you with your Chevy problem.
The 2000 and newer radios do not unlock with a code like the older ones did. To unlock the radio in your Cavalier requires the use of the dealers scan tool to proram the vehicles VIN number into the radio to unlock it.


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Irony is eminent!
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Spike TV Reveals All-Star Lineup for GUYS CHOICE 2014
SPIKE TV's "Guys Choice" is back with a blockbuster lineup. Headlining the evening will be Academy-Award(R) winner Matthew McConaughey receiving the event's highest honor, Guy of the Year. #GuysChoice, the unfiltered, unpredictable and can't-miss event for Hollywood's elite, will tape Saturday, June 7 at Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, CA and premieres Wednesday, June 11 at 9p ET/PT on SPIKE TV.
In addition to McConaughey, other A-list attendees being honored with the coveted mantlers include: Julia Louis-Dreyfus accepting the "Hot and Funny" award, Kevin Hart as "King of Comedy," Mark Wahlberg will be honored as the "Troops Choice," Golden Globe(R) winner Andy Samberg will accept the "Primetime" award, Norman Reedus as "Biggest Ass-Kicker," Emily Ratajkowski as "Our New Girlfriend," Key & Peele as "Hottest Couple," Chris Hardwick as "Smartacus," Johnny Knoxville for the "Guycon" award, and Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition cover models Chrissy Teigen, Nina Agdal and Lily Aldridge for the "Holy Grail of Hot" award.
"'Guys Choice' celebrates the year in men and the women they love," said Casey Patterson, Executive Producer and Executive Vice President, Event Production & Talent Development, Viacom Entertainment Group. "We have some big surprises in store, and we're looking forward to the mandemonium."
In keeping with Spike's year-round efforts to support our nation's servicemen and women, "Guys Choice" will once again feature inspiring moments saluting our troops and returning veterans.
Voting for this year's other nominees starts today at guyschoice.spike.com. Among the notable mano y mano match-ups this year are:
Rookie of the Year: Matt Harvey (New York Mets) vs. Eddie Lacy (Green Bay Packers)
Jean-Claude Gahd Dam: Eva Green ("300: Rise of the Empire") vs. Lauren Cohan ("The Walking Dead")
Outstanding Literary Achievement: "Paddle Your Own Canoe: One Man's Fundamentals for Delicious Living" by Nick Offerman vs. "Grumpy Cat: A Grumpy Book" by Grumpy Cat
Brotherly Love: The Robertsons vs. The Wahlbergs
Most Dangerous Man: Raymond "Red" Reddington (James Spader) vs. Daryl Dixon (Norman Reedus)
Hottest Emma: Emma Stone vs. Emma Watson
The full list of categories and nominees can be found at guyschoice.spike.com
The official sponsors of SPIKE TV's "Guys Choice" are Captain Morgan(R) White Rum, AT&T, SNICKERS(R) Brand, GEICO, BURGER KING(R), AXE Peace, Kia Motors and Dr Pepper, a brand of Dr Pepper Snapple Group (NYSE: DPS).
Casey Patterson and Carol Donovan will serve as Executive Producers. Ryan Polito is Director and Tim Bruno serves as Executive in Charge for SPIKE.
Spike TV is available in 98.7 million homes and is a division of Viacom Media Networks. A unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB), Viacom Media Networks is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. SPIKE TV's Internet address is www.spike.com.
Photo: Facebook


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Photo by ISIphotos.com
Caleb Porter is making the jump to the professional ranks, but not until December.
Porter was named the new coach of the Portland Timbers Wednesday, where he will take over full-time duties from interim coach and general manager Gavin Wilkinson, who took over for the ousted John Spencer. Porter will assume the Timbers' post following the conclusion of the 2012 NCAA men's soccer season, and he will be formally introduced at a press conference in December.
Porter, who guided the Akron Zips (ranked No. 1 in SBI's College Soccer poll) to a national championship in 2010, will look to exit the college game on top again before taking over for a franchise whose rabid fanbase is starved for a perennial winner, much like Akron has become under Porter's watch.
"Put simply, I believe Caleb Porter is the best young soccer coaching mind in the country," Timbers owner and president Merritt Paulson said. "He is the right fit for the Timbers on every level. We went through an exhaustive and thorough search over the last couple months where we spoke with some truly excellent candidates, but Caleb quickly emerged as the consensus target. We look forward to 2013 and beyond with Caleb at our helm."
For the 37-year-old Porter, a former standout at Indiana University and draft pick of the San Jose Clash in his playing days, the move comes five months after he was unable to guide the U.S. Under-23 men's national team to Olympic qualification. He will be reunited in Portland with former Akron standout Darlington Nagbe while inheriting a team that sits on the bottom of the Western Conference with a 6-13-6 record a year after coming close to making the playoffs in its expansion season.
"I know that Merritt and Gavin are committed to long-term success for the Timbers and, come December, I will be completely focused and driven to continue building a professional club in which the Timbers supporters, city and organization will be proud of," Porter said. "In the meantime, out of respect to the Akron program, I will not be commenting further on this matter until after the conclusion of the 2012 college season."
What do you think of this development? Do you think this is the right hire for the Timbers? How do you see Porter faring as a coach in MLS?
Share your thoughts below.


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My son's seizures seem to have a cycling pattern and I was wondering if this is common with simple and complex seizures. Seems like about every 11-13 days he has anxiety and then he'll have his sp and cp seizures for three days, then they stop, and then in another 11-13 days the pattern repeats. Anyone else have that?
My seizures also happen in cycles, about every 5-7 days. For a couple of days prior to a full nocturnal seizure, I am wakened by small brief bouts of "activity" that resemble a portion of a full motor seizure. I am told that the main seizure I have is a nocturnal complex partial motor seizure based on description; I am still waiting for a video EEG so we can find out for sure what the seizure type is.


text: This forum explicitly is for the discussion of tobacco. You're welcome to voice your opposition to smoking, but please don't try to overrun the topic with anti-smoking arguments. Here's my input: -Smoking as a habit is sad. -Smoking on occasion can be enjoyable. It does wake me up in the middle of a long night of drinking/partying. -Girls look hot when they smoke. -Girls should, however, not smoke if I am going to kiss them later. -I like Dunhill International Lights and Kamel Red Lights. -The smoke from Marlboro Reds smells the best (when smoked by others). -Even one cigarette makes me feel like ass the whole next day. -Whoever most directly responsible for Marlboro Ultra Light Menthols should be killed.


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Keyshia Cole 'Enough Of No Love' Featuring Lil Wayne – Video
Keyshia Cole 'Enough of No Love' featuring Lil Wayne video is finally released. Keyshia Cole has been off the scene for a second due to spending time starting a family with NBA ball player Daniel Gibson. Now that everything seems to going on okay at home, Keyshia Cole is back to music.
The talented and beautiful Keyshia Cole is heart broken in new video so much so she even lands in a padded room. Keyshia Cole can't believe her lover cheated on but doesn't get to down and out. Lil Wayne makes his cameo in the video that actually doesn't take away from the overall theme.
The video was directed by Benny Boom and was shot well. Check out the video below.
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Photographer's Note
This picture shows the top of a 34-story office building, built in 1930 as the headquarters of the Canadian Bank of Commerce. It was was the tallest building in the British Empire until 1962 and one of the most opulent corporate headquarters in Canada. Constructed in Romanesque Revival style, by Pearson and Darling, an architectural firm based in Toronto from 1897 through 1923, the designers of many landmark buildings in Canada. This building is famous for its 'Giants', the large stone faces shown here, there are 16 of them, they stare in all directions. The building is now part of a four tower complex, the Commerce Court, in the Financial District of Toronto.
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Critiques | Translate
Noel_Byrne (33772) 2013-11-22 10:46
hi Barnabas,
Great idea to focus on this detail, something so cool to see. Romanesque revival, and the giants remind me a little of art deco. Very cool that their beards are all unique to each face too. Great share, thanks
All the best
Photo Information
- Copyright: Barnabas Bozoki (bbarna) (1227)
- Genre: Places
- Medium: Color
- Date Taken: 2013-01-10
- Categories: Architecture
- Camera: Canon PowerShot SX40 HS
- Exposure: f/5.0, 1/200 seconds
- More Photo Info: view
- Photo Version: Original Version
- Theme(s): Toronto Heritage Archiecture [view contributor(s)]
- Date Submitted: 2013-11-22 4:57


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Did the Drought Dry Out Christmas?
Nicole Ebat
BLAIR, NEB.(KPTM)-- It's a tradition a lot of families embark on this time of year, hunting for the perfect Christmas tree.
For Rob and Carlie Wiley, this year is extra special. They're celebrating their first Christmas with their little girl Reagan.
So the tree needs to be extra special too.
But they weren't quite sure what this year's tree hunt would bring.
"We heard there was a drought and that there weren't going to be as many trees available so we came a lot earlier than we usually do," said Rob.
Reagan sat comfortable on her dad's shoulders as the family roamed the pre-cut trees at Santa's Woods in Blair, Neb.
There were plenty of trees for them to pick through, but that's because it can take 10 years for a fledgling tree to grow into one you take home to decorate.
"The trees in the field that were mature have done okay," said Scott Lund, farm manager at Santa's Woods. "But the ones that we planted we lost, so next year I have to plant twice as many to try to keep up with what I have to sell 10 years from now."
Lund said the farm planted 6,800 trees this year and lost 7,000 during the drought.
He says he'll plant more than normal over the next few years to make up for this year's loss.
Because of that he says prices should stay down.
As far as this year goes, he says there should be a "perfect" tree for everyone."Some people like short, fat trees, some people like tall, skinny trees. It just depends on your personal preference," he said.
After about 15 minutes, little Reagan Wiley made her first perfect tree pick. Her mom and dad say they're just glad the weather didn't dry up their families first Christmas.