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The Value of A Life
We are all, at the core, of the same cosmic substance. Should one man be worth 100 times or more than another? The Mayor of New York City is worth many hundreds of times more than most of the citizens who pay his salary with their taxes. Mind you, he's not a bad man, as plutocrats go: he accepted the disappointment of being blocked from handing over New York City property to one of his billionaire friends for a football stadium. Yet still, he did have to be stopped, and in that lies the danger of plutocracies.
We could make a long list of far more malevolent and costly problems that have beset us as a result of allowing plutocrats into Washington. $45 million inauguration parties; a $300 billion war that is being raged straight into Hell; no-bid contracts to the corporations that fund the plutocracy—in Iraq, in post-Katrina New Orleans, at Wal-Mart headquarters in Arkansas, and even in Alaska.
In her book War Talk, Arundhati Roy shows us the extent and the cost of plutocracy with some numbers:
In the last ten years of unbridled corporate globalization, the world's total income has increased by an average of 2.5 percent a year. And yet the numbers of the poor in the world has increased by one hundred million. Of the top hundred biggest economies, fifty-one are corporations, not countries. The top one percent of the world has the same combined income as the bottom fifty-seven percent and the disparity is growing.
Yet our government here in America has gotten elected, and re-elected, on the strength of its professed values: we value life, we are compassionate conservatives. So what, I wonder, is the value of a life? What is the value of your life? Is your worth a hundred, or three hundred times less than that of the CEO of Bechtel, Microsoft, or Citibank? Are your needs that much fewer and cheaper? Have the old white men who rule the corporate global economy given so much more to the world than you and I that they have earned this excess that places such a gulf between us and them? Are their actions that much more beneficial, their work that far more efficient, than our own?
Well, if you've ever worked with the windows operating system for computers, or tried to get through to an actual human representative at Citibank, then perhaps you already have an answer to those questions. That answer, which I am guessing is similar to the one I have formed about these corporations and their leadership, suggests another point that I have observed elsewhere with respect to our government in Washington. The problem with wealth is not intrinsically moral as much as it is practical: organizations and people that become drunk on excess tend to become unfathomably incompetent. The $250 operating system is so flawed and defective that it requires near-daily patching to merely keep it running at a borderline level of functionality; the only human presence at the bank is a talking machine that will take you along an infinite loop of phone menu options. The plutocrat hires a horse show judge to supervise the disaster management agency, and ends by exponentially compounding the disasters that come.
My point here is that wealth and plutocracy are only unfair insofar as they are incompetent. They get tangled in their own excess, which they then kick carelessly away to others who are unfit to perform the mandate they have been given by customers, citizens, or taxpayers. Wealth is impractical: it kills the host while feeding a few tiny parasites that are attached to the whole organism. The body may be a person, a family, a city, a company, or a nation: the result is inevitably the same—slow and agonizing death by incompetence.
So it must be our most emergent priority as a people to see wealth rooted out of power in our corporations, our media, and our government. I would suggest that every time you walk into a voting booth; every time you write to your Congressman or your local newspaper; every time you decide where to do your shopping or your banking (or your computing); you think about this overriding priority of our times—the dissolution of the cult of wealth, and the enduring separation of excess and leadership.


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Roethlisberger headed to meeting with Goodell
Published: April 13th, 2010 | Tags: Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers, Roger Goodell
Ben Roethlisberger is headed from Pittsburgh to New York now for an afternoon meeting with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, according to a league source.
Roethlisberger is scheduled to meet with the Goodell for a good part of the day. He is joined by agents Ryan and Bruce Tollner and lawyer David Cornwell, according to a source, who will accompany him to the league offices for the meeting.
Roethlisberger read a brief statement about the sexual assault allegations yesterday after those charges were dropped in Georgia, and is not making any other public comments on the matter. The league will not be commenting on his meeeting with Goodell.

subset: commoncrawl


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David Tennant voted Sexiest Man
David Tennant has been voted Britain's sexiest man in a poll of women over 30.
The Doctor Who star beat James Bond hunk Daniel Craig to the title in the survey by allaboutyou.com, with a whopping 70 per cent of the 1,000 people polled voting for him.
Daniel was voted second sexiest with 56 per cent of votes, closely followed by Moulin Rouge star Ewan McGregor who earned 55 per cent of the poll, in which people could vote for more than one man.
Former 007 star Sean Connery was placed fourth with 51 per cent of over 30s women naming him their sexiest man, followed by Sharpe star Sean Bean with 47 per cent of the vote.
Colin Firth was sixth favourite with 45 per cent of the vote, Lewis Hamilton was seventh with 32 per cent, Gok Wan and Lenny Henry were joint eighth with 17 per cent of the vote, Huw Edwards was ninth with 15 per cent, Jeremy Paxman was tenth with 13 per cent and Charles Dance was last with nine per cent.
allaboutyou.com Editor Bernadette Fallon said: "It is very interesting to see that allaboutyou.com readers find David Tennant the sexiest man in Britain – not an obvious choice considering the competition he was up against. Huw Edwards, Charles Dance and Jeremy Paxman all fared quite badly which proves that British woman want some eye candy as well as intelligence."


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Jun 08 2011
I Am Green
Surrounded by green, the warbling vireo is gray.
He has no bold face pattern, no wing bars, no striking color on his breast but his name, vireo, means "I am green."
Vireo comes from the Latin word for green: virens. The other eastern members of this genus have olive-green backs.
Do you think the warbling vireo is dull? Not when he sings.
Unlike the greenish vireos this one has a peppy song with a complex rhythmic structure and continuously changing set of figure patterns.(*) He sings themes and variations all around his territory, even from the nest.
Birders have tried to describe his song with mnemonics. The classic descriptions are: "If I sees you, I will seize you, and I'll squeeze you till you squirt!" or "Iggley, pigelly, wigelly, pig."
But I think of it as: "If I see her I will squeeze her, I will squeeze her 'til she squeaks!"
Listen to him here.
His song is so fancy he doesn't need to be green.
(photo by Kim Steininger)
4 Responses to "I Am Green"
# Jennieon 08 Jun 2011 at 9:48 am
What a delight listening to this little bird sing! Thanks, Kate.
# Joshua Schulzon 08 Jun 2011 at 10:40 am
That's interesting, I never knew that was where "vireo" came from. Although I maintain that their plumage leaves a lot to be desired, I agree that their song is far superior to their brightly colored relatives.
# Marjorie Van Tasselon 08 Jun 2011 at 9:16 pm
One of my favorite little birds. First one I saw was up at Presque Isle, latest was up at Moraine (poor photo) walking along the bike trail near the Windsurfer's spot (along with White-eyed Vireos singing their little hearts out too. One of Moraine's good spots at times.
Thanks for the info on it's name, Kate. Always interesting and educational here.
# kellyon 09 Jun 2011 at 11:46 am
I like warbling vireos too. Their "plainness" doesn't bother me. I think they're rather cute and engaging. The indentifying features for me in reference to their song: a varying continuous warble that always ends with a fairly emphatic ascending flourish. I don't know if I am just more attuned to them this season, but I saw and heard tons of them this spring.


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Petit targets FFF Presidency
Former Arsenal and Chelsea player Emmanuel Petit has revealed he wants to stand for the role of President of the French Football Federation in the 2016 elections.
Petit, 42, who won 63 caps for France, helping them to both the 1998 World Cup and Euro 200, has shied away from football since retiring in 2005.
But after deciding that a coaching or managerial role was not for him the former Barcelona man now sees his future working for the governing body of French football and is targeting Noel Le Graet's job.
"Being a coach or a teacher is not my vocation," he told France Football. "I'm more comfortable in positions of power, because it is where the future of football lies.
"I am ready to invest in football in a political way. President of the Federation. There will be other people with me, it is a collective project.
"I came to a simple conclusion: there is more drift in the football business and a growing gap.
"I'm not here to mess around, but to serve French football and everyone."
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JO LEIGH, 26, of Milton Keynes, gets boyfriends to pay bills
JO lives with her footballer boyfriend and doesn't ever want a job.
The wannabe WAG is one of four million Brits who — as The Sun revealed last
week — have never worked a day in their lives.
She says: "I feel I am too good to be employed. I date and persuade my
boyfriends to keep me and pay all my bills.
"Working is so boring — why would you want to do that when you can have a nice
rich boyfriend?
"Eventually I hope to marry a footballer, and then I will be safe — I'll never
have to work a day in my life.
"I'm not ashamed to say I am a wannabe WAG and I bet a lot of other girls
would like to live like I do, in a lovely flat, and have all their clothes
bought for them.
"I met my current boyfriend in a nightclub — where I meet all my blokes. It's
actually very easy. If I fall out with this one I'm sure I will be able to
find another one. I left school at 16 and I went to college to do a course
in air hostessing. But I found it boring.
"I kept on meeting guys in clubs and several offered to set me up.
"I moved in with one, and then another. I've been taken on holidays to
Barbados and America — really, it's like a career in itself."
Jo doesn't claim benefits but by choosing not to work, contributes nothing to
the public purse or society. She reveals: "My family aren't thrilled. They
would love for me to be independent and to have a job and stand on my own
two feet.
"But I love the glamour of my life.
"Now, with programmes like TOWIE, everyone wants a glamorous lifestyle which
is all about your hair and nails, designer clothes, spray tans and going
out. I think planning for the future is boring — I'd rather live in the
I've been living off dole since I was 13
ROBERT ALLISON, 44, from Leeds, has four kids, not worked a day in 31 years
JOBLESS Robert Allison has been living off benefits since he left home aged
But Robert, who lives with four-year-old son Nathan, says: "I don't feel
guilty about never having worked because I don't think it is my fault.
"I've been living off benefits all my life since I left home at 13. I stopped
going to school so I've no qualifications. I'd liked to have worked in a
factory but I've never managed to get a job.
"I live off £71 a week Jobseeker's Allowance. It's not too bad. I get my
housing benefit paid and a lot of bills like council tax.
"I'd need to earn quite a bit for it to be worth my while taking a job."
The Sun is fighting to end Britain's bonkers benefits system.
But Robert says: "I'm worried about universal tax credit — maybe they'll force
me to take work I don't want."
The dad has four kids by two different mothers.
He says: "I'm on my own now, looking after Nathan. It would be hard to get a
job and do the school run.
"But I keep busy. I've a big TV with Freeview and a computer and games which I
spend a lot of time playing.
"I get up and get the little one off to school, then I come home and go on the
internet. Sometimes I'll see if there are any jobs, but there never are.
"There are a lot of people round here who don't work, we support each other.
"At least I've never had to starve and always had a roof over my head."
He added: "I hope the situation's better for my kids — I wouldn't like to see
them permanently on the dole."
I'm not a sponger
ANNA TRAVERS, 42, a mum of five of Bramley, Leeds
ANNA has four kids in their 20s — all unemployed — and a 12-year-old daughter,
She lives in a council house and says: "I don't feel like a scrounger.
"I've lived on benefits since I left home at 17.
"There's very high unemployment round here."
She gets £75 child tax credit and £71 Jobseek-er's Allowance a week.
Anna added: "I have the things we need — a telly and a computer.
"Life is tough but I don't want to be forced into a job."
Rejected 50 times
SAZI ISMAEEL, 23, of Southall, London, can't get job after uni
SAZI has been jobless since graduating in media studies in 2011.
She says: "I've applied for over 50 jobs in my line of work — but every one
was rejected.
"I've applied for menial jobs too but they tell me I'm 'too qualified'.
"I live with my parents and live off £50 a week JSA.
"I wish I didn't have to rely on handouts and earned my own money.
"My degree just left me with a £12,500 debt."
By RICHARD CLIFTON, of charity Shaw Trust
WE know how difficult it can be taking those first steps into employment for
some people.
But anyone can find work with the right help.
Finding a job is a job in itself and you need a plan of action each day.
Identify your skills and abilities and look for opportunities that match.
Visit your Jobcentre Plus to find information about transport and childcare
costs. Prepare and practice for an interview.
For the four million Brits who've never worked, getting a job may seem
daunting, but by being organised and taking small steps you will get there.


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The Winds of Your Grace
Jeff S ♦ November 20, 2012 ♦ 7 Comments
Music can be a powerful combination of wisdom and emotion tied together in a single package. There were many songs I listened to that gave me strength and encouragement as I healed from my divorce. As someone who speaks the language of music, I hope that I can use what I have written to be a gift to many of you to do the same.
This is a song I wrote and recorded with my band, Steady On, seven years ago. It is a song about being in the place of weariness and falling back on our heavenly Father. In these quiet moments he lifts us up and gives us the power of the Holy Spirit, not just so that we can survive, but so we can serve in strength.
Lying here I don't want to sleep
Though I close my eyes
I fall away into Your presence
In this dark and silent night
I feel Your arms around me
My tears running down Your shoulder
But the road is too long and the race is to harsh
For this tired little girl to stand up any longer
And though this world may grow weary
I will not grow faint
I will mount up with wings and fly like an eagle
On the winds of Your grace
A silent wind whirls around me
As you lift me higher and higher
You never let go and in me Your strength grows
The world I once knew grows so much smaller
And though this world may grow weary
I will not grow faint
I will mount up with wings and fly like an eagle
On the winds of Your grace
Send me on this race you've set before me
I will answer Your call
I will press to mark, Spirit guide me
And may I never fall
And though this world has grow weary
Still I grow not faint
For I have mounted with wings and fly like an eagle
On the winds of Your grace
On the winds of Your grace
Of Your Grace
- Posted in: Victims
- Tagged: crying tears, Jeff S, poetry, songs
7 Comments
November 20, 2012 – 5:26 am
Thanks for that, Jeff. That was lovely. 🙂
Debbie PrceNovember 20, 2012 – 5:29 am
Great Song!! Thank You!!
joepote01November 20, 2012 – 6:29 am
Beautiful, Jeff! Thanks for sharing!
J. AnnNovember 20, 2012 – 6:57 am
Just what I needed today, Jeff. Blessings to you.
Just MeNovember 20, 2012 – 8:29 am
Thank you, Jeff. Very beautiful song! And the lead singer has such a sweet, clean voice.
Jeff SNovember 20, 2012 – 9:46 am
You are welcome! I was very blessed to have her sing in my band- she does indeed have a beautiful voice.
November 21, 2012 – 12:10 am
Lovely, just lovely….thank you so much for sharing.


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Environmental Health Disparities Research CoreEPA Grant Number: NIMHD001
Title: Environmental Health Disparities Research Core
Investigators: Boutin-Foster, Carla , Charlson, Mary , Olden, Ken , Reyes, Damaris , Watkins, Beverly
Institution: Weill Cornell Medical College , Cornell University
EPA Project Officer: Callan, Richard
Project Period: September 22, 2011 through July 31, 2015
Project Amount: $860,901
RFA: Transdisciplinary Networks of Excellence on the Environment and Health Disparities (2012) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: Environmental Health Disparities , Environmental Justice , Health
This revision application will integrate a new Environmental Health Disparities Research Core (EH Core) into the existing community-academic research infrastructure of the Weill Cornell Center of Excellence in Health Disparities Research and Community Engagement (CEDREC).
The Center of Excellence in Disparities Research and Community Engagement (CEDREC) Environmental Health Disparities Research Core is a community-academic collaboration to advance and accelerate the development of trans-disciplinary environmental health disparities research and strengthen community capacity to address environmental health issues through education, research and policy. Whereas most research cores are guided by academics from a single discipline, the Environmental Health Core brings together a multidisciplinary team of community and academic experts, and is guided by both a city-wide Community Steering Committee and a multi-disciplinary, inter-university Scientific Steering Committee. The Community Steering Committee is comprised of grassroots community-based organizations working on environmental justice issues in: Brooklyn (Families United for Racial and Economic Equality, FUREE), the South Bronx (Youth Ministries for Peace and Justice, YMPJ, and Mothers on the Move/Madres en Movimiento, MOM), and the Lower East Side/Chinatown (Good Old Lower East Side, GOLES, and Chinese Progressive Association, CPA). The Scientific Steering Committee is comprised of three environmental health sciences researchers and spans three disciplines and three academic institutions—Murray McBride, PhD Professor of Soil Chemistry, Cornell University; Ken Olden, PhD, ScD, LHD, Professor and Dean CUNY School of Public Health and Former Director, NIEHS; and Michael Weitzman, MD, Professor of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, NYU School of Medicine—as well as Mario Drummonds, the Executive Director of CEDREC's longtime Harlem community partner Northern Manhattan Perinatal Partnership, NMPP.
Translational research when viewed from an environmental health perspective must be able to bring findings from basic social science research to the forefront of health policy. This can only be achieved if community voices and advocates are involved not only as participants but as researchers who engage in all phases of research proposal development, planning, design, implementation, analysis and bi-directional dissemination. The EHDR Core anchors the Center of Excellence in Disparities Research and Community Engagement in the community and seeks to:
- Collaboratively prioritize key areas of environmental health disparities and identify optimal ways to intervene through research and policy. Method: Conduct surveys with community stakeholders and collaboratively develop a research agenda.
- Expand opportunities for developing interest in environmental health disparities research. Method: Broaden the health disparities research track training program to include an environmental health disparities seminar series taught jointly by Community Steering Committee and Scientific Steering Committee members.
- Create ongoing dialogue between the Environmental Health Core and community stakeholders. Method: Partner with the Community Steering Committee to conduct webinars and town hall meetings, and write peer-reviewed manuscripts.
- Build community capacity to address Environmental Health disparities. Method: Provide education, training, data resources, and informatics support.
Expected Results:
The EHDR Core will: develop a set of community-led culturally tailored EH outreach initiatives; increase community awareness of priority environmental health issues; strengthen community capacity to address EH disparities; and increase community trust and participation in CEDREC EHDR Core research. The success of the EHDR Core will be evaluated using a Theory of Change framework and the following capacity-building metrics: Mapping of Community Assets and Resources; Training of Environmental Core Partners; Collaborative Development of Education Materials, Research Grants and Publications.
Publications and Presentations:Publications have been submitted on this project: View all 1 publications for this project
Supplemental Keywords:Air, access, alternatives, ambient air, atmosphere, biology, built environment, carcinogen, chemicals, collaborative research, community-academic partnerships, community-based participatory research, cumulative effects, decision making, diet, drinking water, ecological effects, epidemiology, effects, ethnic groups, environmentally conscious manufacturing, genetics, health effects, heavy metals, mobile sources, nutrition, particulates, population, public good, psychology, race, risk, risk assessment, sensitive populations, socio-economic, sociological, stressor, susceptibility, toxins, toxic substances, urban planning, vulnerability, water
Progress and Final Reports:2012 Progress Report
2013 Progress Report


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This step is elective but will drastically multiply your chances of your profile getting noticed by other daters. Write a little something about yourself, your pasttimes and upload any nice photos of yourself.
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Located someone who looks like a good match? Send them a word or two or just a wink and take it from there. With a little luck you'll be on your way to locating the love of your life.
It'll only take 30 seconds


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FREE Kindle Book | Cookie Indulgence
Right now you can get the FREE Kindle Book: Cookie Indulgence! Free offers tend to go quick, so grab this if you want it. If you see a cost for this book, that means it's no longer available as a freebie.
About this FREE Kindle Book
Warm from the oven and just waiting to accompany a glass of cold milk or a cup of steaming cocoa, nothing smells better than the aroma of freshly baked cookies. With Cookie Indulgence, you'll never run short on inspiration for quick and delicious cookies, bars and frostings to welcome friends and family home or to give as tasty gifts.
Browse through the pages of Cookie Indulgence to find just the right treat. With 150 favorites from Chocolate Chip or Oatmeal cookies to No-bake, Refrigerator and Christmas cookies, there is sure to be a recipe that will please even the most rigorous taste test your family can muster.
If you're looking for something unique, make sure to check out the Unusually Odd cookie section for recipes with ingredients you won't find on the average baking supply shelf.
So, sit back and relax with a good cookie while you scan the recipes and tips. Your next cookie baking session is sure to please everyone with goodies for gift giving, church bake sales or snacks for your family.
You don't need to have a Kindle to read this free kindle book…. you can use your iPhone, Blackberry, iPod Touch, iPad, Android, or even your PC or Mac.
Looking for more FREE Kindle books? Some of the books I have posted recently may still be available for free! Check it out!
*Remember: Amazon prices can change at any time and are subject to availability. This price was valid at the time that this post was published, but amazon prices can chance quickly, so please check the price before purchasing.
Thanks Surviving The Stores!


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Members of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, have commended Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan for the appointment of credible persons into the council's transition committee.
Bomadi council PDP chairman, Mr. Labo Pius, in a chat with journalists in Bomadi, noted that with the choice of Mr. Collins Olorogun as Chairman, Mr. Earnest Tobi as Vice and Mr. Abonema Obale Secretary, respectively, they would move Bomadi council to an enviable height.
Labo noted that the elected National Assembly members from the council and the party's executive and leaders were well pleased with the appointed transition committee members, describing them as a square pegs in square holes.
Pledging his support and loyalty to Governor Uduaghan, Labo assured him of Bomadi PDP support in future elections.
He urged the transition committee chairman and members to carryout the transformation agenda of the governor and work with all party faithful to move the council forward.


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About Blum Design in Flowers
The designers at Blum; Design in Flowers create gorgeous floral decor for events, weddings and weekly deliveries to home... Read MoreRead More s and offices. We specialize in contemporary European design which focuses on simple, elegant and lush flowers whether it be for an intimate brunch or an elaborate black tie affair. Call today to schedule a complimentary consultation in our studio at McCormick Pier in Northwest Portland. We look forward to meeting you and helping you create an unforgettable event!Request A Quote


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Yahrzeit Plates - Bronze Memorial Plaques. Classic Bronze Cast Memorial Light Plaques available in dark or light chocolate finish to match all Yahrzeit Plates available. Each Yahrzeit plaque is Hebrew & English engraved in Bronze. The dedication text on your...
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Fabulous Torah Case and Scroll 22" Tall. This is a true to be, beautifully decorated with true velvet, silver plated with gold plated ornaments. Includes a Yad Torah Pointer. Thick Parchment paper with clear voweled lettering and Cantorial (Ta'amim) notes...
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Kiseh Eliyahu Prophet Eliyahu Chair for circumcisions. Exquisitely designed and hand manufactured in Israel, with any color velvet and wood finish stain of your choice with accents. The Eliyahu chair is factory priced and ships directly from factory which is...
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Olive Wood Sefirat Ha'Omer Counter Large 8.5"x8". A great way to count the Omer between Passover and Shavuoth. Counting the Omer is a big mitzvah and this counter is a fabulous easy way to remind yourself your home or community....


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UNITED NATIONS (Apr. 14)
Israel charged last night that the Security Council, which opened its debate on "The Situation in The Occupied Arab Territories," was urgently convened "at the whim of certain countries which seek to exploit the misdeeds of one particular individual acting on his own in order to fan the flames of religious hatred and incitement."
Ambassador Yehuda Blum of Israel said that the shooting incident last Sunday in the Dome of the Rock, the sacred Islamic shrine in Jerusalem, was a "tragedy." He said the perpetrator of the crime "may well be mentally deranged," describing his action as "an act of lunacy."
Blum warned, "There is a danger, nay, indeed a certainty, that this debate will be exploited with a view to playing upon religious sentiments of millions around the world."
The Arab leaders decided to incite the Moslem world "to detract attention from their own problems — the dreary and cruel oppression of their peoples, the wanton razing of their own ancient cities and mosques in Syria and in Lebanon, and the attempt to blot out the rankling memory of the destruction by Jordan of Jewish synagogues and cemeteries in Jerusalem," Blum charged.
The Israeli envoy also charged that the countries that were behind the hasty convening of the council were "the very some countries that over the years have not only encouraged acts of terrorism against Israel, but have also lent their support, military, financial, diplomatic and other to a terrorist organization bent on the destruction" of Israel.
The convening of the Council is also an act of "bigotry of the highest degree," Blum observed, noting that the Arabs did not request a Security Council meeting when a Turkish fanatic shot Pope John Paul II in May, 1981 or when Moslem zealots stormed into the holy shrine of Mecca in a premeditated attack in Nov. 1979.
Concluding, Blum declared: "The considerable efforts made by the government of Israel, indeed by any government, to protect holy sites, are unfortunately no guarantee against isolated acts of sacrilege by individuals running amok, as happened in the case before us. That regrettable incident in no way changes the policy basic to the government and the people of Israel, to strive for tolerance and coexistence in an atmosphere of peace and reconciliation in Jerusalem, whose holiness is great to Judaism, Christianity and Islam."
Last night's debate opened with a statement read by Ambassador Mehdi Mrani Zentar of Morocco on behalf of King Hassan II. The King charged Israel with responsibility for the bloodshed in Jerusalem last Sunday even if the incident was caused by a single soldier acting on his own. He accused Israel of "passivity if not collusion" with "Zionist terrorist groups."
Ambassador Hazem Nuseibeh of Jordan said that the attack on the Dome of the Rock was not merely the action of "a lone deranged soldier" but "a deranged society, the more dangerous as it is being armed to the teeth by its strategic ally, the U.S."
Attacks on Israel are expected to continue today when the, Council resumes its deliberations late this afternoon.


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My wife and I are heading to Paris - staying near the Musee de l'Orangerie. Arriving Dec. 7 and leaving Dec. 15.
We haven't been to Paris for 27 years and are looking for a couple of great dinner experiences as well as other fabulous (but perhaps less expensive) Bistro or other moderate restaurants. We are looking forward to foie gras, escargot, and oysters, as well as cassoulet, canard a l'orange, coq au vin, boeuf bourguignon, blanquette de veau, etc. We are also very adventurous eaters as well.
We would very much appreciate some insight into restaurants, as well as time of evening to make reservations. We will probably contact the hotel in the next week or so to ask them to make reservations for us.
Any other tips or advice would be most appreciated.


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Charles Joseph Vrla "Charlie"
Charles Joseph Vrla "Charlie" is present with the LORD in Heaven now; God called him home for an eternity of peace from all he had endured the last several years. Charlie passed from this life on Aug. 6, 2013 at age 65 with Hospice Care Center of Wichita Falls, Tx. caring for him so very dearly. A memorial service will be on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013 at 10 a.m. in the Ennis Myrtle Cemetery Chapel. The family has planned a loving service and welcomes and will sincerely appreciate close friends and relatives to come share this day with them to remember Charlie. Floral tributes of love for the family can be delivered to the Myrtle Cemetery on the morning of the service.


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NewswireToday - /newswire/ -
São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil, 2011/09/21 - Aircraft is first of 20 E-Jets for the Italian carrier - Alitalia.com / Embraer.com. NYSE: ERJ; Bovespa: EMBR3
Embraer delivered the first EMBRAER 190 jet to Alitalia, today, in a ceremony at the manufacturers headquarters in São José dos Campos, Brazil. This aircraft is part of an order announced in March 2011 for five EMBRAER 190 and 15 EMBRAER 175 jets by the Italian airline, and will be operated through a leasing agreement with Air Lease Corporation, based in the U.S.
Delivering the E190 to Alitalia is a clear endorsement of the aircraft as the preferred equipment type in this capacity segment, said Paulo César de Souza e Silva, Embraer President, Commercial Aviation. The high degree of commonality between the E175 and the E190 will bring new efficiencies and cost savings, as the airline modernizes its fleet.
The airlines 100-seat EMBRAER 190 is configured in a single class. The aircraft will be used on Alitalias domestic and European network, out of seven airports: Rome Fiumicino, Milan Linate, Milan Malpensa, Turin, Venice, Naples, and Catania.
Alitalia was one of the first E-Jet operators, when it took delivery of the EMBRAER 170 for its Express division, in 2004. The 20 new aircraft will progressively replace Alitalias existing fleet of regional aircraft, and play a key role in developing the carriers ability to provide nonstop flights to short and medium haul destinations, while ensuring higher efficiency, lower emissions, and top-quality service.
We welcome the EMBRAER 190 as the key aircraft to successfully meet our companys strategic development plan, said Rocco Sabelli, CEO of Alitalia. This order will further reduce our fleet age, which is already among the youngest in Europe, and optimize it in terms of quality and efficiency to serve the Italian market and develop our intra-European network, specifically for our point-to-point network.
Since they entered revenue service in 2004, Embraer (embraer.com) has delivered over 800 E-Jets to 60 companies from 40 countries around the world. The versatile 70 to 120-seat four-aircraft family is flying with low cost airlines, regional services, and mainline carriers.
About Alitalia
Alitalia (alitalia.com) Compagnia Aerea Italiana began operations in January 2009, following the acquisition of assets from Alitalia Linee Aeree Italiane and of Air One. Today, Alitalia is Italys leading airline, and transported 11.2 million passengers in the half year closed on June 30, 2011 (+5.7% more than the first half of 2010), with its 150 aircraft fleet (June 2011), across a network of 92 destinations (2011 summer season). In 2010, Alitalia positioned Air One as a low fare, high quality carrier operating from Milans Malpensa Airport. The airline is a member of the SkyTeam alliance and, in 2010, the company joined the airline industrys leading trans-Atlantic Joint Venture with the Air France-KLM Group and Delta Air Lines.
North America
Robert Stangarone - E: rstangarone[.]embraer.com.
Cell: +1 954 260 9939 / T: +1 954 359 3101 / F: +1 954 359 4755
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Hervé Tilloy - E: herve.tilloy[.]embraer.fr.
Cell: +33 6 0864 3545 / T: +33 1 4938 4530 / F: +33 1 4938 4456
Tracy Chen - E: tracy.chen[.]bjs.embraer.com.
Cell: +86 139 1018 2281 / T: +86 10 6598 9988 / F: +86 10 6598 9986
Asia Pacific
Shorbani Roy - E: shorbani.roy[.]sin.embraer.com.
Cell: +65 9794 2401 / T: +65 6305 9955 / F: +65 6734 8255.
Written by / Agency / Source: Empresa Brasileira de Aeronáutica S.A.
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Tammie Coe, 35, makes the cake. We discovered her amazing, fondant-covered creations in the dessert case at La Grande Orange, and pretty soon they were everywhere. (And coming soon to her second location at Artisan Village near Seventh Street and Roosevelt.) Tammie Coe Cakes is a tasty Phoenix phenomenon that could easily take over the world -- except Miss Coe won't let that happen.
On the inevitability of becoming a big-time local cake maker: I was the little girl in the kitchen baking cakes, so it's not like I took a left turn with my life and ended up baking.
And about single-handedly reviving fondant: It makes things look pretty, and I love to work with it, and so it's what we've become known for. Most fondant tastes like it has chemicals in it, or like a brick. Just awful. Ours has white chocolate in it, and it's really yummy.
Tammie Coe
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What is it about Tammie Coe cakes, anyway? We use simple ideas and simple designs. Our cakes are based on what you would eat every day. I'm not making cakes that are infused with lemongrass or black pepper or green tea. I'm just doing cakes that are based on the flavors and elements you would have loved in a cake when you were a kid. Our zebra cake is about the flavors you would find in an ice cream sandwich, and it has red raspberries in it, too. We're about simple ingredients, done really well, and about not skimping on the good stuff.
Her family loves the "good stuff": I sent [a cake] to my mom, and she put it in the freezer. She cut a little slice off every day to make it last longer. She made that cake last a month. It was ridiculous. My husband's mom is the same way. We gave her this giant banana bread, and she would just eat little pieces of it. People are funny about desserts.
But Tammie Coe isn't funny about desserts: I don't care where we go, I always order dessert. I like plain desserts; I'm not as interested in ordering some huge artistic creation. I've seen them; I've made them. A slice of pie or a piece of chocolate cake at the end of a meal is just fine. But good dessert or bad dessert, I eat it. And junk-food desserts? Well, I don't really like Twinkies, but I'll eat them. We had an order for a cake a couple of months ago, and the customer wanted the cake covered in Twinkies, and we were eating them while we were decorating it. It was so gross. And it was also kind of okay.


text:
Trader Joe's again says no to NE Portland spot
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) - Portland Mayor Charlie Hales says Trader Joe's will not be coming to a northeast Portland neighborhood.
Trader Joe's pulled out of a proposed location in February after some members of the community complained about gentrification.
Hales tried to get the grocery chain to reconsider, but a company official has told him the decision won't be reversed.
The mayor said Tuesday he's confident that a similar project will eventually rise on the corner of Northeast Alberta Street and Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.
(Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)


text:
RITA Ora's boobs burst out of a skimpy bikini as she strips off and tours her
native Kosova in her latest music video.
The singer made an emotional return to the country of her birth to shoot the
promo for Shina Ya Light.
But the video isn't a sombre affair – the 21-year-old struggles to stay
dressed as she whizzes around the war-torn capital Pristina.
Rita – whose family moved to London before she could walk – was given a hero's
welcome as she addressed a huge crowd at a concert at the start of the
She's then shown touring the rundown capital wearing a black bikini top so
small her breasts pop out from underneath it.
In other scenes she's shown playing with a group of local kids, before hopping
on the back of a motorbike and whizzing around the city in a convoy.
Rita sings along to the song as she sits open-legged on the back of the bike,
wearing sexy thigh-high boots and a tiny pair of pants.
Despite her odd choice of outfits, the blonde bombshell insists she was moved
by her return to Kosovo – which was ripped apart by the Balkans conflict.
She tweeted after the video wrapped: "This is unbelievable. Best shoot
I've ever been on!"
Rita, meanwhile, is currently holed-up in New York City, awaiting Hurricane
Sandy – which is due to hit the city later today.
The storm – expected to ravage America's east coast for up to 48 hours –
forced her to cancel a concert in Philadelphia this weekend.
But incredibly her show in Manhattan on Tuesday night is still scheduled to go
Rita tweeted on Sunday: "The philly show has officially been Canceled!
But NEW YORK is still going on!! I don't care what happens! The show goes
on! #ORATOUR"
But she admitted to followers she was worried about the impact of the storm –
which has already shut down New York's transport system – and forced
thousands of residents to flee their homes.
After watching New Yorkers stock up on supplies in preparation, Rita tweeted: "ITS
LIKE INDEPENDENCE DAY IN NYC RIGHT NOW….I'm ACTUALLY GETTIN A LITTLE BIT
NERVOUS. There no food on the shelves!!!"
Shine Ya Light will be released in the UK on November 5


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Miguel Cotto vs. Ricky Hatton at 140 pounds. Who would have won?
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Originally Posted by
I understand that. But Hatton is not Margarito. A healthy Cotto at 140 beats Hatton. I think Torres is a harder puncher than Hatton and Cotto survive that. Not that Bailey hit Cotto flush, but he took some good shots in that fight as well. We only saw Hatton against a past his best Kotza.
I know. I am pointing out that because Mr Fantastic likes to sht on Cotto all the time and he just want to act like they are the same fighter because the lost to the same fighters. He dont even consider that Cotto fight was more competitive than Hatton fight against the same 2 ATG.
You mentioned a shaky 140 Cotto. Still, I dont think Ricky power is not on the level of Bailey and Torres. But that is just my opinion.
i wouldnt be surprised if cotto would have beat hatton, but i wouldnt be surprised if hatton beat cotto either.
i agree tszyu was past his best, however he was still p4p number 3 at the time and alot better fighter than torres.
on hattons power, he wasnt a hard hitter but he wasnt feater fisted, more of an accumulative puncher.
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He's a senior. He was just named Player of the Year. He's his team's leading scorer. And on Friday, he will lead his team in pursuit of a title. Sounds like Jerome Randle, but, wait a minute, isn't...
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text:
Figure 7:
Relative threshold elevations for each of the 14 masks used in [
]. All masks were matched in RMS contrast (values of 0.32 and 0.64 were tested). The data points denote relative threshold elevations averaged over all subjects; error bars denote standard deviations of the means over subjects. The dashed lines denote average relative threshold elevations for each of the three image types. The images depicted on the horizontal axis have been ordered by eye to represent a general transition from simplistic edge to complex texture (from left to right). Indeed, notice that the data generally demonstrate a corresponding left-to-right increase in relative threshold elevation.


text:
Watch Ken Park (2002) Full Movie
All Genres: Drama
Release Date: 3 April 2003
Run Time: 96 min
Country: USA
Languages: English
Quality: DVD
Director: Larry Clark, Edward Lachman
Writer: Harmony Korine (screenplay), Larry Clark
Stars: Adam Chubbuck, James Bullard, Seth Gray
Ken Park (2002) Full Movie Story Line: Ken Park focuses on several teenagers and their tormented home lives. Shawn seems to be the most conventional. Tate is brimming with psychotic rage; Claude is habitually harassed by his brutish father and coddled, rather uncomfortably, by his enormously pregnant mother. Peaches looks after her devoutly religious father, but yearns for freedom. They're all rather tight, or so they claim. But they spend precious little time together and none of them seems to know much about one another's family lives. This bizarre dichotomy underscores their alienation # the result of suburban ennui, a teenager's inherent sense of melodrama, and the disturbing nature of their home environments.


text:
Scrap the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), not only to resolve the conflicts in Jammu and Kashmir and the north-east but also as part of reversing an ongoing weakening of the country's democratic institutions. The short point: AFSPA is not a problem that affects the periphery alone, it is something that weakens India's democratic core.
AFSPA is a leftover from the Raj, designed to place the stamp of the law on what would, in all normal circumstances, be labelled extra-judicial killings and other violations of fundamental rights. Learned judges, former policemen and liberal academics, besides activists, have repeatedly recommended that this particular colonial derelict be scrapped altogether or altered drastically to bring it in line with the framework of a functional democracy.
The armed forces have been steadfast in their resistance to any proposal to repeal this law that gives them the power of life and death over ordinary citizens in areas brought under the Act's purview, with no questions asked. And the inability of the country's civilian leadership to override the resistance of the armed forces is part and parcel of the overall weakening of political authority that today threatens to unravel India's democratic state.
Sure enough, it is pointless to blame the armed forces or the politicians alone in this regard. Equally at fault are other actors. A middle class guided by a narrow vision of its own self-interest. A relatively lazy and incompetent media that fails to put in the hard work needed to understand reality in its complexity and plumps, instead, for the shortcut of zeroing in on one, any one, sensational dimension of the problem to be reported.
Democracy Under Threat
Constitutional bodies like the Comptroller and Auditor General that hunt for populist glory rather than serve out their assigned job of providing inputs to committees of Parliament that would hold the executive to account. Civil servants who find easy refuge in institutionalised absence of accountability. And the courts that take blithe advantage of missing specific constitutional restraint to foray into areas far beyond their competence and comprehension, a tendency deplored by sections of the judiciary itself.
The continuing revelations on how Ishrat Jahan was killed in cold blood, along with three others, in a joint operation by the Gujarat police and the Intelligence Bureau, tell a tale, among other things, of degradation of Indian democracy.
Men in uniform can kill off anyone, just about anyone, provided they take the trouble to fabricate a charge of threatening the authority and integrity of the Indian state. There is no institutional mechanism in place to check their behaviour, save vigilance of the courts.
When our armed forces can kill, rape, torture, maim and heap indignities on ordinary people, under the cover of a law that gives them absolute impunity, and when policemen can bump off whom they like in staged encounters, are we really a democracy? Does the political system that tolerates such cold-blooded murder of people by agencies of the state have any right to present itself to the world as its largest democracy?
This is not a debate in political classification or about the foolishness of seeking a middle ground in binary choices, like suggesting that someone is a little pregnant. That would be like worrying about the chastity of a rape victim assaulted savagely enough to bring out her entrails, as in the infamous Delhi rape of December 2012.
What Holds India Together
Liberal democracy is what allows India to be. With its enormous diversity, multiple group identities of caste, religion, region, ethnicity and language, India is still a functional entity only because its organising principle is democracy. If democracy comes unstuck, so will India.
Doesn't this claim run counter to our historical experience? After all, India has existed for millennia without the aid of democracy, hasn't it? No, it has not. India has existed as a place of shared culture and history and intertwined belief systems, but not as a cohesive nation-state. That is a strictly modern phenomenon.
How India can Unravel
And, for its myriad, diverse and often mutually antagonistic constituents to cohere together as a nation, India needs democracy as its operating framework. Trying anything else would cause extreme disruption, as some group or the other seeks noninstitutional means to right a deemed wrong. Institutional means of shared, transparent decision-making is the only way all of the country's diverse groups can feel they are getting their legitimate due within the larger collective and that the advance of the larger collective is indeed to their own advantage. And that institutional framework of shared, transparent decision-making is democracy, currently under assault from diverse quarters, of which AFSPA represents one.
Let us stop the pretence that AFSPA is all about the periphery. The law, in conjunction with other processes, is bleeding the core of India's already anaemic democracy. Let us scrap AFSPA.


text:
Hello, I had an excision done on my face and there is a bump at the end of the incision where I believe there is a knot from the stitches (or scar tissue). It has been 1 month. It's like there's a huge zit there. Is there anything that can be done to dissolve the stitches or fix the bump? I can't wait months for the stitches to dissolve on their own because it's ruining my face.It's bad. What can be done? Coritsone? Hylaurondaise? I had it done out of state so I can't see.the original surgeon.
Bump from Stitches on Face?
Doctor Answers 1
Bump from Stitches on Face?
The bump could be swelling but it is likely a "standing cone" which results from creating an oblique angle at that point with the excision. The result is bunching of the skin that tends up. This will likely improve with time. Injections will most likely not help. If the bump is still there at 6-12 months it can be excised. You might consider calling your plastic surgeon to inquire whether massage of the bump is OK. I hope this information is helpful.
Stephen Weber MD, FACS
Weber Facial Plastic Surgery
Learn more: http://weberfacialplasticsurgery.com/scar-treatments/
These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.


text:
Get an overview of this hotelFamily-friendly Paris hotel in 7th Arrondissement, walk to Orsay Museum
Popular property highlights
Located in 7th Arrondissement, this family-friendly Paris hotel is within a 15-minute walk of Orsay Museum and Rodin Museum. Notre Dame Cathedral and Palais Royal are also within 1 mi (2 km).
Hotel Features
Along with a restaurant, this smoke-free hotel has a bar/lounge and a coffee shop/café. WiFi in public areas is free. Additionally, 24-hour room service, a business center, and a meeting room are onsite.
Room Amenities
All 50 soundproofed rooms feature free WiFi and 24-hour room service. Thoughtful touches include bathrobes and slippers, and guests will also find minibars and flat-screen TVs.Information missing or incorrect? Tell us!Opens in a new window
Hotel Montalembert
Hotel Amenities
Hotel Amenities
Dining options at the hotel include a restaurant and a coffee shop/café. A bar/lounge is on site where guests can unwind with a drink. This 5-star property offers access to a business center and a meeting room.
A computer station is located on site and wireless Internet access is complimentary. Event facilities measure 323 square feet (30 square meters). This luxury hotel also offers a library, a terrace, and tour/ticket assistance. Parking is available onsite for a surcharge.
Hotel Montalembert is a smoke-free property.
- Babysitting or childcare (surcharge)
- Total number of rooms - 50
- Number of buildings/towers - 1
- 24-hour front desk
- Babysitting or childcare
- Hair salon
- Number of floors - 8
- Breakfast available (surcharge)
- Business center
- Coffee shop or café
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Elevator/lift
- Express check-out
- Fireplace in lobby
- Computer station
- Tours/ticket assistance
- One meeting room
- Luggage storage
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Bar/lounge
- Concierge services
- Library
- Multilingual staff
- Terrace
- Restaurant
- Safe-deposit box at front desk
- Conference space size (meters) - 30
- Conference space size (feet) - 323
- Self parking (surcharge)
- Smoke-free property
- Free WiFi
Family Friendly Amenities
- Family Hotel
- Free Wi-Fi
- Soundproofed rooms
- Babysitting or childcare (surcharge)
- In-room childcare (surcharge)
- Cribs/infant beds (complimentary)
Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi
Self parking (surcharge)
Room Amenities
- Connecting/adjoining rooms available
- Room service (24 hours)
- Premium TV channels
- Premium bedding
- Soundproofed rooms
- Air conditioning
- Free weekday newspaper
- Phone
- Minibar
- Daily housekeeping
- Turndown service
- Private bathroom
- Bathrobes
- Free toiletries
- Hair dryer
- In-room massage available
- Slippers
- Bathtub or shower
- In-room childcare (surcharge)
- Desk
- In-room safe
- Flat-panel TV
- In-room climate control (air conditioning)
- Free cribs/infant beds
- Free WiFi
Where to Eat
Continental breakfasts are available for a surcharge.
Onsite venue - This restaurant serves lunch and dinner.
24-hour room service is available.
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please note them at check-out when you book your room.
Hotel Policies
Check-in time starts at 3 PM
Check-out time is noon
Payment types
Children and extra beds
- Children are welcome.
- Rollaway/extra beds are available for EUR 100 per night.
- Free cribs (infant beds)!
- Pets allowed for an extra charge of EUR 70 per pet, per night
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy.
- No onsite parking is available.
- A tax is imposed by the city: EUR 3.30 per person, per night
Optional extras
- Fee for continental breakfast: EUR 30 per person (approximately)
- Self parking fee: EUR 40 per day
- Pet fee: EUR 70 per pet, per night
- Rollaway bed fee: EUR 100 per night
Hotel Name
- Hotel Montalembert
- Hotel Montalembert Paris
- Montalembert
- Montalembert Hotel
- Montalembert Paris
- Montalembert Hotel Paris
We should mention
The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation.
Awards & Affiliations
- The property is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts.
National Rating
This property has received its official star rating from the French Tourism Development Agency, ATOUT France.


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|December 2, 2009, 08:52 PM
Senior Member
Join Date: October 8, 2005
Posts: 696
40k truck? Step off!
I have no sympathy for someone in a $40k truck I could never afford.
Just like people who bought homes they couldn't possibly afford.
Blocking your exit was an aggressive, provocative act.
Sell that outrageously expensive truck, drive something affordable and
you wouldn't be in that situation, if it was even true.
As a young man, I once walked about 10 miles home rather than ask
a stranger for the 5 cents I was short for subway fare.
Your encounter sounds like a suburban version of the Bernard Goetz subway story.
You handled it correctly and kept a cool head. Kudos to you.
|December 2, 2009, 11:47 PM
Senior Member
Join Date: November 20, 2004
Posts: 3,150
I can see that winning the argument is important to you. OK, you're the winner.
|December 3, 2009, 02:43 AM
Senior Member
Join Date: August 27, 2009
Posts: 1,086
erring on the safe side is a good thing. There've been encounters with people in my past that I've reacted rather absurdly too. The "homeless man" wrapping his arm around my shoulder walking with me, dropping the "n-word" constantly and acting like I was his best friend. My response "I gotta get to my train!" and hopping a median near Grand Station in Chicago to get away.
It's a perfectly apt way to react, but a lot of people condemn anyone who asks for help as a scam artist, simply because they've never had to put themselves in the same place.
-liberal gun nut = exception to the rule-
-1.24274238 miles, because Russians don't need scopes-
-Gun control was the Klan's favorite law, how can you advocate a set of laws designed to allow the denigration of a people?-
|December 3, 2009, 03:46 AM
Senior Member
Join Date: January 24, 2009
Location: Anchorage Alaska
Posts: 3,340
OK, this is not tactics, but I have to share.
I just have to share my experience. Experiences, actually.
I was painting my entryway when a guy knocked on my front door and asked me for $20 to buy gas so he could get home (about 50 miles away). He was handicapped (I don't remember if it was hearing impaired or could not speak--it was a three or four years ago), and told (wrote) a good line about starting a taxidermy business and having a good work history with a local (to his home) business. I gave him $20. I figured I could spare the money even if he was scamming me and I am (was) a soft touch. He promised faithfully to mail me the money.
No letter came.
A couple of weeks later, I was in my office when one of my co-workers came upstairs looking for our boss (who has our building posted "No Soliciting", by the way). There was a guy downstairs who was needing gas money. Our boss wasn't there, but another co-worker and I went downstairs to find out what's up. I recognized the guy right away. I informed my co-worker that he was a scam artist. He didn't believe me right away, but I told him to just keep him occupied.
I went outside and saw the same truck, and the passenger side window was open. So I opened the glove compartment and found the registration and a business card from a local charitable group which helps the handicapped. I noted that his fuel gauge was low, but with the ignition off, I don't know if it was reading true or not.
I went back inside where my co-worker and he were still talking. I walked up to the other side of the scammer, plopped the papers on the counter and joined the conversation. He did not remember me.
He went through his spiel with me and I reminded him that I had given him $20 two weeks ago and accused him of running a scam. He denied it and was insulted. He said he tried to come back to pay me, but could not remember where I lived. He began to leave and I told him he would want to take his papers with him. He was incensed that I would have the nerve to go into his vehicle. I told him he could have the papers as soon as I photocopied them, which I did.
He said he was so insulted that he would be back the next day with my $20. He never showed.
I did call the organization whose business card he had. Yep, they knew him. They had helped him, too. But they do not give money any more. They do have vouchers for a few gallons of gas, food and clothing. But this guy was not interested in that stuff so much.
So, I called the police to let them know this scammer was out there and to file a complaint. As it turns out, there is no law against doing what he is doing. He wheedles money from someone by lying and it is not a criminal act. If someone gives him money, that's a gift. Fraud laws require a bit more.
His truck was registered to a lady, evidently his mother. I considered driving out there to let her know what her son is doing, but thought that was just investing too much into this jerk, so passed on that idea.
I am not that soft a touch any more. But I do recognize that there are people out there who are genuinely in need and at their wit's end how to make it from day to day and here to there. So, sometimes I will give the benefit of the doubt, still. But less now than before.
So, scammers steal from more than thier primary victims. They steal from people they never met, other people with real needs. They do this by making charitable people less willing to give.
Lost Sheep
|December 3, 2009, 09:26 AM
Staff In Memoriam
Join Date: October 31, 2007
Location: Western Florida panhandle
Posts: 11,069
in this case it may beat having to double tap someone with JHP ammo and the ensuing hours of hassle with the "blue crew"...
Pop always said "Prior planning prevents P*** poor performance"...
Both of those cliches fit the realm of tactics and training so well!
|December 3, 2009, 10:02 AM
Moderator Emeritus
Join Date: June 25, 2008
Location: Western Colorado, finally.
Posts: 19,107
Still not one single person has bothered to actually explain why my method would be wrong or unsafe. Just the same tired argument about how it was a "guaranteed", "99.999%", "no doubt" scam.
Instead of the "it's obviously important to you. You win.", "I give up." or "You've made your point, let it go.".... how about ANSWERING the point?
My method is no less safe, no more open to getting scammed, does not encourage panhandling and also ensures that an honest needy person does not get turned away with the cops on his tail for no reason.
I mean, really, there's only two possible outcomes:
1)The same thing observed by the OP.
2)"Oh man, that'd be great! Yeah, I'll meet you over there. Thanks a lot! I really appreciate it!"
Still happily answering to the call-sign Peetza.
The problem, as you so eloquently put it, is choice.
-The Architect
He is no fool who gives what he can not keep to gain what he can not lose.
-Jim Eliott, paraphrasing Philip Henry.
Last edited by Brian Pfleuger; December 3, 2009 at 11:10 AM.
|December 3, 2009, 11:11 AM
Join Date: December 1, 2009
Location: Nashville, TN
Posts: 43
I got one for ya'
About two years ago my father and I were on our way to a family Thanksgiving in a town about an hour away from Nashville. We were in my Mom's car a 2000-2001 porsche boxster. At the gas station we were approached by a young female. We were nicely dressed and given the car we were in I am sure we looked like a good target. Most people don't know you can get a used boxster for cheap and that most new SUVs cost twice as much, its a porsche and it gets attention.
She approached us and said she needed gas money to get home, they were almost to thier families house where they could get help; her husband was in the car and maybe some kids too. They drove a two-tone Ford Explorer that wasn't in pristine condition.
My Dad has a temper but at the same time is a very giving individual. He pulled out his wallet and was handing over the twenty dollar bill. When she took a hold of it, he didn't let go and said. "I am doing the right thing by trying to help you and whether or not you do the right thing with this money is up to you" She started to talk and he interrupted her with "Tell your husband if I see him panhandling at this gas station, the next time I see him I am going to punch him in the face as hard as I can" She was needless to say surprised as I was by the whole transaction. She said thank you and left.
The same girl approached me at the gas station a few weeks later and had the same story. I started laughing and said "Your lucky my Dad's not here" She looked confused. I said "two guys in a porsche on Thanksgiving Day gave you a twenty dollar bill for similiar circumstances" I guess she remembered us. She left immediately and I haven't seen them there since.
I don't give money, I will buy gas or food. I will do the right thing by helping out needy people, I would hate to think that I was ever in a position like that I would be able to call family or friends for help. Maybe they don't have any to contact with their family, or maybe their family is tired of supporting them.
Either way good job.
|December 3, 2009, 11:56 AM
Senior Member
Join Date: June 23, 2001
Location: Upstate NY
Posts: 171
My two cents.
King Edward, glad it worked out for you. All you who are CERTAIN it was a
scam, I envy your self-assurance and feel sorry for your cynicism.
I have been scammed a buncha times. Got hustled for a couple hundred bucks by a young
co-worker and his wife. Was necklace scammed in Jamaica.
Was "victim" of a beautiful hustle in South Africa when a couple of
locals helped me buy cigarettes at a vending machine. It was a great hustle, we all enjoyed it.
It cost me ten bucks, that I am lucky enough not to miss. Also had a great conversation with a
junkie looking for money in Dublin.
However, I will still stop to help people on the side of the road, give somebody a couple bucks
if they look like they need it (and have a good pitch, bum sittin' mumblin' about change probably
won't get any), and buy food for the homeless guy that says he's hungry.
If I had freaked out, and over-reacted in several of the above situations, they could have
gone much differently. Relax, go with the flow, but watch your back.
I prefer to do as Motob3000's dad did. I feel better if I can give to somebody; if they mis-use the money,
well, that's their bad karma.
I don't want to live so incredibly paranoid a life that I ascribe evil motives to everybody I come across,
and right now I can afford to spare a few bucks.
Peetza Killer, I'm with you. I try to find ways to help that are safe for all concerned. Makes for a better
world than "AAAHHH, they're out to get me!!! Call 911!"
Louis L'Amour said it best!!
|December 3, 2009, 01:14 PM
Senior Member
Join Date: September 2, 2005
Location: Greenville, TX
Posts: 104
Different Perspective
I come at this from a different perspective: I am a pastor. We believe we have been a mandate by Jesus to help people and minister to those in need.
The question is how - how do you help someone in need? Do we really help someone when we give them $10 for gas/prescriptions/food, or are we simply enabling them to remain in a lifestyle that does not work? The original post stated that the man drove a $40,000 truck. If he is asking for money, could he be living a lifestyle that he cannot maintain? Perhaps he lost his job or the economy turned south - shouldn't he be expected to reduce his spending, even if it means making big sacrifices?
There should be a lot more consideration than just whether to give the man some money or not. If he is a scammer and we give him money, then we have just enabled him to continue his scamming. If he is living an unsustainable lifestyle and we give him money, then we have just enabled him to continue that unsustainable lifestyle. If he forgot his wallet at home and we give him money, then we have helped a man who forgot his wallet!
It is easy to become jaded and cynical - either give him $10 and tell him to go away or don't give him $10 and tell him to go away. But neither has helped him (unless he just forgot his wallet). Unfortunately, scammers know this: make people uncomfortable or make people feel sorry for you and they will pay you to go away so they don't have to deal with you any more!
From a tactical standpoint, obviously you should not go toward the vehicle. If you are alone, PeetzaKilla has a great suggestion - offer to go to the pharmacy and pay. But be careful that the individual is not really a team, waiting jump you when you go in or come out. And if you have loved ones present, their safety is your first priority - I would hesitate to leave them alone. But some pharmacies have drive-through windows that allow you to pay without getting out of your vehicle. But again, pay attention to your surroundings.
I have done what PeetzaKilla suggested - offer to pay. It is shocking how many times I have been refused (and verbally insulted/assaulted)! But occasionally someone is grateful for my help. Here is my rule-of-thumb (for what it is worth): if they act confidently and have a story that sounds like it has been practiced, it probably has! But if they act ashamed and their story sounds unrehearsed, they are probably legitimate.
I am by no means an expert; I just seem to get hit up for help a lot!
|December 3, 2009, 01:38 PM
Senior Member
Join Date: November 17, 2009
Location: Texas
Posts: 1,066
Peetza, some answers you wanted
Let's understand something right up front-- from the tone of what I've read in almost every post in this thread the poster is willing to help for a genuine need. Most have not seen King's situation as truly depicting a genuine need, they have, instead, seen a potentially dangerous situation because of the actions of the potential perp. Note: I said potential, no proven but potential.
I don't know if he was truly a perp, or really in need.
King didn't know if he was truly a perp, or really in need.
YOU don't know if he was truly a perp, or really in need.
King has not indicated he would not help a genuinely needful person.
1. King did see a person in a vehicle which indicated some measure of affluence, but was begging.
2. King did encounter a person who was trying to get him away from the safety of his vehicle.
3. King was some distance away from the lighted store and not able to retreat with just a few steps.
4. King was amongst other cars in the parking lot and on foot essentially boxed in for retreat in other directions.
5. King's own vehicle was boxed in.
6. King had no way of knowing if the potential perp had confederates lurking.
7. King had no way of knowing he wouldn't get jumped if he left his vehicle and walked toward the drugstore to help pay for the medicine.
Usually two out of three is enough to determine cause for concern.
How about seven out of seven?
Peetza, you wanted answers. You just got seven of 'em!
|December 3, 2009, 02:13 PM
Senior Member
Join Date: April 22, 2009
Location: The Volunteer State
Posts: 439
Thanks to all who replied.
In an effort to clarify a few things I'll reply here as well....
I am a Christian and I have young daughters and I do believe in helping others whether it be with time, talent, material means, etc.
I have helped people in the past who were strangers to me and
generally those times and situations were fairly easy going and
my approach was helpful and courteous as I was approached in
a very vanilla and humble manner to begin with.
In this situation, before the man in said truck ever opened his mouth,
there were caution flags and bells in my head due to:
a) being blocked in so quickly
b) his physical motions in the truck wanting me to move towards him
c) the fact that my only retreat option was on foot
My thoughts / intuition regarding his request for money became secondary
due to a,b,c above and I thought about what to and not to do and I decided to as kindly as I could say no while holding my position behind the car door and awaiting his reaction / response.
After it was over, and I drove home I thought about what if my refusal to help put his daughter's health in further jeopardy? What if I would have offered to go into the store with him and pay the difference would he have
left anyway because it was a scam? and there were a couple of other thoughts.
I truly feel if he had walked towards me but from a few feet away calmly
told me his situation/request I would have been much more likely to think
and act along lines of offering to go with him to the pharmacy and helping
get the medicine for kid.
But I didn't do that based on his approach and I can move forward in
"It'll happen fast once I start" - Charlie Waite
|December 3, 2009, 02:19 PM
Join Date: June 8, 2008
Posts: 3,378
|December 3, 2009, 02:23 PM
Moderator Emeritus
Join Date: June 25, 2008
Location: Western Colorado, finally.
Posts: 19,107
I don't know, I guess I don't understand why my position is so difficult to accept.
I said that the OP, King Edward, acted in a safe and proper way IMO, if that was the way he felt that he should have reacted. Safe and sane, what more can you ask?
I'm simply expressing the opinion that there are OTHER safe and sane ways to handle the situation that either expose or eliminate the danger just as quickly while simultaneously allowing for you to assist a person in need, should it turn out to NOT be a scam.
I'll say again. The OP is not me. He has no obligation to act or react in the manner that I believe that I would, and I have. He did fine. He's safe, that's priority one. Priority two, is helping people who need help, at least to me.
Still happily answering to the call-sign Peetza.
The problem, as you so eloquently put it, is choice.
-The Architect
He is no fool who gives what he can not keep to gain what he can not lose.
-Jim Eliott, paraphrasing Philip Henry.
|December 3, 2009, 02:33 PM
Junior member
Join Date: July 5, 2009
Location: Earth
Posts: 127
Peetza, the biggest problem I see with your solution of offering to accompany the con by going inside the pharmacy with him is that your solution requires CONTINUED CONTACT with the con. This solution of yours not only increases the potential risk to you but it now also puts shoppers in the pharmacy in potential harms way if in fact the con had far more malicious intentions. The fact that the con was aggressive and intentionally put KingEdward in a defensive position by blocking his vehicle's right of way should have removed all doubt that this con was not at all humble or deferring in his attitude and should therefore not be trusted. Your solution is not 'smart' tactically and would only have created more chances for the con to take advantage of KingEdward.
|December 3, 2009, 02:46 PM
Moderator Emeritus
Join Date: June 25, 2008
Location: Western Colorado, finally.
Posts: 19,107
However, I consider any potential additional risks to be minimal.
I could also make an argument that my method may in fact REDUCE the risks, since it would nearly instantly establish the intent of the "begger". However, any such scenario is WAY into the realm of the theoretical. There's no way to know who would be right. I think it's a small chance. I'd take it. No one else has to. I see very little danger in meeting the "begger" in a lit parking lot and walking into a store populated with numerous employees and customers, not to mention monitored by security cameras, so that I can pay $10 for his prescription.
Still happily answering to the call-sign Peetza.
The problem, as you so eloquently put it, is choice.
-The Architect
He is no fool who gives what he can not keep to gain what he can not lose.
-Jim Eliott, paraphrasing Philip Henry.
|December 3, 2009, 03:47 PM
Junior member
Join Date: July 5, 2009
Location: Earth
Posts: 127
Thus your solution remains tactically unsound. And again I argue that it places the victim (and potentially innocent bystanders) at greater risk simply because of the prolonged contact with a malcontent who has demonstrated an aggressive and domineering demeanor.
|December 3, 2009, 03:49 PM
Senior Member
Join Date: November 17, 2009
Location: Texas
Posts: 1,066
'Tis so. 'Tis not. 'Tis so. 'Tis not.
Luke saw the buzzards circling beyond the rise as he approached the ranch with his month's supply of grub for the hands. He drove on past the ranch house to see which animal had fell prey to the long hard winter and the blizzard which had swept the plains.
Yes, it was old Paint, the laziest horse on the ranch. Always needed the whip. He pushed the brake with his booted foot, took the long slender whip from its socket, and slowly climbed from the wagon.
The coyotes had already been there, as well as the buzzards darting in for a quick mouthful. Only bones remained.
He began at the skull and with lash after lash of the whip slowly worked his way down the bones toward what was left of the tail....
|December 3, 2009, 04:35 PM
Moderator Emeritus
Join Date: June 25, 2008
Location: Western Colorado, finally.
Posts: 19,107
Some of us have a different threshold of statistical anomalies that cause us worry. There is a HIGH probability that this was a scam, there is an even HIGHER probability that, if it's a scam, the guy is going to have an "adverse" reaction to the suggestion that you'll meet him in the pharmacy and pay the $10. I've had it happen, just as several others have posted. Someone claims to need money for food, you offer to buy them food instead of give them money and they get "pissy", for lack of a better word. The chances of danger get lower and lower each step of the way. If the guy says "OK, I'll meet you over there." then it is much less likely that it's a scam. Still a chance? Yep, still a chance. However, it's not like you're locked in to an unalterable course of action. Remain "tactical" and take your "out" if need be. Meanwhile, the little girl that needs the antibiotic might hear a story about the nice stranger that helped her dad.
Just as we get to a good conversation we likewise find that we are indeed also at the end of it. Anything further, at least from me, would indeed be whipping the dead horse. I'm not changing my mind, and I'm not even TRYING to change yours. I'm simply looking for clarity and understanding. I believe that we have that on both sides. It's been fun.... carry on men!
Still happily answering to the call-sign Peetza.
The problem, as you so eloquently put it, is choice.
-The Architect
He is no fool who gives what he can not keep to gain what he can not lose.
-Jim Eliott, paraphrasing Philip Henry.
|December 3, 2009, 04:36 PM
Senior Member
Join Date: February 13, 2009
Posts: 174
I'm totally with peetza on this one. Makes perfect sense to me...although, I did buy a guy $10 worth of gas in that same situation.
He was on hard economic times and was just leaving a job(he looked like a carpenter), and we wouldn't get paid for it for a while.
He needed $10 just to get home(about 30mi from where we were)
I told him to walk across the street to the gas station where he said his truck was...I drove across the street.
I paid the attendent, and he filled his truck up while he was very, very grateful to me. Yay me! A good deed!
Once again, I very much agree with peetza on this one as it's just common sense. Oh well, that's my opinion.
|December 3, 2009, 04:40 PM
Junior member
Join Date: July 5, 2009
Location: Earth
Posts: 127
Did the carpenter block you in with his truck and vigorously wave for you to approach and then demand money?
|December 3, 2009, 06:02 PM
Senior Member
Join Date: June 23, 2001
Location: Upstate NY
Posts: 171
Nowhere in the OP did I see that he "demanded" money.
He chose "to yell from his truck". He then waited a few
seconds and drove away when he didn't get what he wanted.
I guess I fail to understand where all the references to
aggressive acts come from. The guy asking for money never
made any threats, he didn't advance on KingEdward,
he wasn't even verbally threatening.
Must be my aggressiveness meter is broke.
Louis L'Amour said it best!!
|December 3, 2009, 06:14 PM
Senior Member
Join Date: September 7, 2004
Location: SE NC
Posts: 1,239
In this situation, before the man in said truck ever opened his mouth,
there were caution flags and bells in my head due to:
a) being blocked in so quickly
b) his physical motions in the truck wanting me to move towards him
c) the fact that my only retreat option was on foot
Over and over (and over again) in scenario situations like this one, people are often told they should 'go with their gut.'
I think the same thing applies in this case. I don't think anyone else on the thread was there and in a position to make any observations- or draw any conclusions either. Sounds like it was a good call to me, and the OP should be satisfied with his original evaluation of the situation.
As to doing things that prolong contact with someone who gives the contactee the heebijeebies, well... it's also said often on boards like this that there are few victims, but lots of volunteers.
jmho, ymmv, etc,
Mindset - Skillset - Toolset. In that order!
Attitude and skill will get you through times of no gear, better than gear will get you through times of no attitude and no skill.
|December 3, 2009, 06:31 PM
Senior Member
Join Date: June 23, 2001
Location: Upstate NY
Posts: 171
lpl, you just drew a conclusion: "Sounds like it was a good call to me,"
but you weren't there!!!
If we're not here to draw conclusions or make observations,
there's not a lot of point to boards like this.....
Louis L'Amour said it best!!
|December 3, 2009, 07:33 PM
Senior Member
Join Date: February 13, 2009
Posts: 174
No, but I was walking out of Wal-Mart at night at he approached me while my back was turned. Luckily that I pay attention with my ears as well as my eyes I turned around before he was right on me. I didn't have a firearm but I did have my trusty pocket knife that my hand immediately went to and I took out of my pocket, but I did not open the blade.
The point is I still had distance, and even if I was in the OPs position I would think that I could talk to him without approaching the truck just as the OP did. I would have offered to pay for the difference, if he declined, oh well...
That's just my opinion of the OPs post. I say good job on his part for at least being on alert and not approaching the truck like most people probably would do.
|December 3, 2009, 07:48 PM
Senior Member
Join Date: September 25, 2009
Location: Nebraska
Posts: 880
Since no one else has touched on it (that i saw) I'll say it in big letter so you don't miss it:
In any case like this where you feel you are unable to leave it is false imprisonment.
Slow is Smooth. Smooth is Fast.
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Stig Caraveo
████████████ ████████████
Join Date: Jul 2006
Posts: 649
Also I agree with this,
Originally Posted by
2.)Increase the max avatar size by enough that people don't assume this forum is dead(er) than it is due to the 10 year old maximum size limits.
4.)Discourage bullying newbs and unban previously grudge-banned accounts such as Mappy's and Blockhead's and even Tronn and Jaylink.
5.)Implement more of the BBcode functionality as seen on sites like SomethingAwful and what have you
and this
Originally Posted by
fingers mccoy
the forums as a whole will never be what they were (which wouldn't be particularly desirable anyway) without stronger content on the main site, focussed as it once was on a constructive approach to the subject rather than a poorly-regulated critical one
Also, I don't mean to be a dick, but the actual layout of the main site is ugly, cluttered, and looks haphazardly pasted together. That can play a huge role in whether people ever come to the site. The "music news" column on the right side looks spammy. The font needs to be changed. The blurbs that go with each album should be more prominent, and the new featured albums should take up more space on the page and be accompanied with their ratings. The bordering empty space gives all of the content an uncomfortable floating feeling. There needs to be more content that isn't just tiny text next to tiny pictures! It should fill up the page. This would make it all look much more lively.
Most importantly, I think that the communal aspect of sputnikmusic should be played up, since that's really the only thing that clearly differentiates it from most other music sites. The "popular albums list," and other indications of collective involvement, should be made more prominent. "User reviews" and "staff reviews" should both be headers - right now user reviews are buried. This is also a gateway for people coming to the message boards, if that is a priority.
Some other suggestions: News can be incorporated with reviews on the main page, and be accompanied by pictures. That's the purpose of headers, so that if people want to look at more specific things they can. Why aren't any letters capitalized? The Login box should take up way way less area on the page. It could just be an isolated header (ie, above the "Find a Band" thing) that opens up into a box, and it should be called "Users Login" or something cause when I see a huge login box on the main page my first thought is that at least some part of the site can't be accessed without an account. The "new comments" list is odd, and looks sort of like a list of downloads on a file-sharing site.
The layout looks much better when you actually click on a review, mainly because there are fewer separate sections crammed full of small words all competing for your attention in the same area of the page. Though I would still change the color of the bordering space and background, and definitely change the font. The distribution graph of user reviews is a cool touch, and more stuff like that should be incorporated on the main page.
I think the problem is that the main page harkens back to when all a website had to do was organize content in a way that someone could access it and understand and communicate about it. Now looking at a website has to be an experience in itself. It isn't enough to organize content into a perfectly-delineated grid of rectangular lists.
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This documentation is archived and is not being maintained.
How to: Manually Create Performance Sessions
Visual Studio 2005
You can manually create a performance session. You are not required to open a project in Visual Studio to do this. For more information, see Performance Session Overview and How to: Launch and End Performance Sessions.
To manually create a performance session
On the Tools menu, point to Performance Tools, and then click New Performance Session.
An empty performance session is added to the Performance Explorer.
Right-click Targets, and then click Add Target Binary.
In the Add Target Binary dialog box, select the file name, and then click Open.
A new binary is added.
See Also


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i wanna make my nose thiner , lift the tip and enp up with a hump in the right side of my nose. can i make it without a surgery, is there any alternative to surgery?
Im 15, Can I Change my Nose Without my Parents Know? (photo)
Doctor Answers 2
Rhinoplasty at fifteen years of age
Yes, you can change your nose, however you will need permission from your parents until you are eighteen in the USA. The particulars of your nose should be discussed in conjunction with a physical exam.
Talmage Raine MD FACS
15 years old and Nonsurgical Nose Job
You would probably be better served with a rhinoplasty to achieve all of the things you mentioned. You will need your parent's consent due to your age. Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA
Learn more: http://www.hughesplasticsurgery.com/Rhinoplasty.php
These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.


text:
Premier League: Manchester United striker Danny Welbeck targets more goals
Danny Welbeck admits that he needs to find his scoring boots in order to keep his place in the Manchester United side.
Last Updated: 14/06/13 10:08am
With Robin van Persie firing 26 league goals on the way to United's 13th Premier League crown, the England striker managed to find the net just once in the league all season.
Welbeck was often played out of position, out wide or with more defensive duties, but even he admits that he needs to improve his goal tally next season.
"I've been playing on the wing, which has inhibited my ability to get into goalscoring positions," Welbeck said in the Daily Mirror.
"Overall, there have been improvements to my game and I have been more consistent.
"I've played up front for England, been away to tournaments and scored goals there, so I know once I get into those positions I will put the chances away.
"I'm also aware that knowing how to play in different positions and developing in different areas of the pitch will only benefit me and the teams I play for.
"I'm happy to help the team out and it doesn't really matter whether I'm playing on the wing or up front, I should have had a much better goal return."


text:
2010 People's Choice Awards: Red Carpet Men
As promised, Kellan Lutz showed up to the People's Choice Awards to see Twilight emerge victorious with several awards to its credit. Kellan was a tad on the shiny side in his blue blazer and tie. But nothing sparkled brighter than his bright smile. Lovely.
Horror film director and star of Inglourious Basterds Eli Roth was handsome on the red carpet in his suit. I'm not usually a fan of the facial hair, but the made it work. And keeping things from being too stuffy, he opted to leave the tie at home.
Jim Parsons epitomized the look of "geek chic," dressed in his natty suit and tie. He looks less like the lab nerd from The Big Bang Theory and more like a regular on Mad Men. And Christian Slater looked like a well-dressed ninja, in his all-black suit and tie.
Check out the individual photo posts from the 2010 People's Choice Awards for these stars by clicking on their names: Taylor Lautner, Nicole Kidman & Keith Urban, Mary J Blige, Lea Michele, Ryan Reynolds, Ginnifer Goodwin, Hayley Williams, Mark Salling, Kellan Lutz, Sandra Bullock, Diane Kruger, Corey Monteith and Carrie Underwood.


text:
Director:Marcelina Cárdenas Sausa (Quechua)
Loving Each Other in the Shadows
(Llanthupi munakuy)
2001. Bolivia. Directed by Marcelina Cárdenas Sausa (Quechua). With Aydee Alvarez, Samuel Vedia Callamullo. A divided village sets the stage for a star-crossed love affair, a story based on Quechua oral tradition. 47 min.
Represented Region: Rural Bolivia
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text:
The online world has certainly redefined the ways of doing business. With ecommerce (B2B and B2C) gaining global acceptance, it has led to a new opening for various payment gateway companies. The global payment gateway industry has grown at a CAGR of more than 20 percent during 2010 to 2012, and is expected to grow at a rapid pace in the coming years driven by the recovery in private consumption and the rising popularity of mobile shopping. Electronic Bill presentation & Payments has also witnessed phenomenal growth as many utility services and corporates are shifting from printed pieces to electronic bill presentment and payment (EBPP) options as they can save the company time and money.
Various companies that provide software and various solutions pertaining to online payment gates are now looking into the phenomenal market that arises from online payments. ACI Worldwide (NASDAQ:ACIW) is one such company with its core business model of providing payment gateway solutions which it also bundles with its software solutions.
- Warning! GuruFocus has detected 6 Warning Signs with ACIW. Click here to check it out.
- ACIW 30-Year Financial Data
- The intrinsic value of ACIW
- Peter Lynch Chart of ACIW
The banking sector is one segment that has been embracing the online payment gateway as a value-added service to its customers. The company has over 5,000 customers from diversified backgrounds that include financial institutions, retailers, billers and processors around the world. The company processes transactions of $13 trillion spread globally through leading retailers and the world's largest banks.
Considering the investors' focal point, the company recently released its quarterly results, posting revenue of $225.51 million. This could not beat the consensus estimate, but it did record growth by almost 40% as compared to the year-ago quarter. EPS also increased by $0.04 to record $0.11, up by 57% as compared to the year-ago quarter.
Electronic Bill Presentation and Payments (EBPP) is another high growth market with more and more business transactions and utility services moving online. ACI, to further strengthen its electronic bill payment product portfolio, acquired "Official Payment" to have a stronger foothold in the electronic bill payment market. The biller market for EBPP services represents significant opportunity for ACI of $6 billion.
Over 26 billion recurring bills and statements are printed and delivered via the postal services and paid through traditional methods at a cost of over $16 billion per year in printing and postage alone. By adopting EBPP, this can be certainly saved which creates the market for companies like ACI.
The company anticipates its growth pattern to continue in fiscal 2014, and it anticipates non-GAAP revenue in the range of $1.06 to $1.08 billion for the full year, and forecasts non-GAAP revenue of $240 million to $250 million in the second quarter. It also expects a growth by around 9% for net new sales in fiscal 2014.
IDC analysis shows ACI is in about a $20 billion market, growing to about $26 billion in 2018, a projected CAGR of 7% to 8%.
ACI operates in various online and electronic payment gateway solutions and independent revenue stream from each of its segments.
Investors should consider the following:
- Category growing at about 7% to 8% overall.
- ACI growing in mid to high single digits overall.
- ACI is gaining share with fastest growth in AOD (hosted SaaS solutions).
- IDC projects growth rates to maintain trajectory through 2018.
The share repurchase programs of the company certainly safeguard the investors. In the last quarter, ACI repurchased 1.2 million shares under its stock repurchase program, which was worth approximately $70 million, and it has approximately $138 million remaining on its current authorization.
ACI has significant room to grow market share in all current segments, regardless of market growth rates, so it could be a good investment.


text:
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Maker's Mark Posts Early Alerts on Facebook
Jack Bettridge
Posted: September 21, 2010
Strong demand for its new Maker's 46 has prompted Maker's Mark Bourbon to provide news of its new orders and where they are headed as the bottles depart the Loretto, Kentucky, distillery.
The first new product from Maker's Mark in 52 years has fomented high demand, its initial release this summer having already been bought up. A second release, which began September 1, has been pre-sold. Inundated with requests for the locations where "46" can be purchased, the company has decided to use its Facebook page as an early warning system.
A typical such message (posted September 15) read: "Maker's 46 trucks are on the move. From Indiana to Kansas to Northern and Southern California. A reason to celebrate even if you're not in Kentucky for the Bourbon Festival!"
The new product is the result of a special finish to the usual Maker's Mark. Maker's 46 is treated to an extra several months of aging with staves normally used for wine making dipped into the barrel.
In other news, a co-creator of "46", the master distiller Kevin Smith, is leaving Maker's Mark for a position with Jim Beam, the Bourbon's parent company. Smith will be succeeded by Greg Davis. Victoria MacRae-Samuels (the wife of a distant cousin of President Bill Samuels, Jr.) is being promoted to vice president operations.
Watch a video and read more about the new Maker's 46 Bourbon expression.
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