text:
|2010-09-15, 10:24
|Link #321
Ava courtesy of patchy
Join Date: Jan 2009
so FF xiv is not intended for casual gamer? XD I played a little on the beta(only around 3 hour) and thought it was pretty fun lol. I guess I'll wait a little while for a review to see if it's casual gamer friendly or not since I don't have as much time to play games anymore now XD
|2010-09-15, 10:32
|Link #322
Tastes Cloudy
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Snake Way
Age: 30
Its intended to be a more casual. Gamer friendly, but not by much. Ffxiv is no wow where u just climb a short ladder to get to the top and start farming a instance over and over to get gear. You gotta either make them, get a lucky chest drop or complete missions (for decent gear) the good stuff comes from effort.
Grinding? Everything is grinding, even RL is grinding. Its all depends on how good they hide it. Where WOW utterly fails. The only thing that kept me from getting the best gear in wow is repeating the same annoying instances over and over.
In mmo's Pvp is a joke and overrated ego. Nothin but who can be the cheapest. If I want pvp I just go play halo or mw2 that take non cheap skill. Only way to be cheap in those are broken weapons, campers are only cheap to poor skilled players, a simple granade fixes campers.
Most of the time jumping is overrated in mmo's
Ffxiv has story, and a good onee like most mmo.
btw guys their fixing a lot of stuff so complain when you play the RELEASED version. and the combat is hardly slow. Not stupidly fast like WoW's but not slow.
Last edited by Kyero Fox; 2010-09-15 at 11:26.
|2010-09-15, 14:56
|Link #323
Mr. Bushido
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Canada
Age: 31
I've actually played a bit of the Beta, and it was enough to cancel my pre-order on the game. Final Fantasy XIV is decent, and defenitly a step up from XI, however its not worth $12 a month for me, especially with Square Enix's inane "each additional character costs you more per month" thing.
|2010-09-15, 15:28
|Link #324
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2006
It makes sense in theory, but it honestly should be 1 character per server. Not globally; but some could argue you don't really need more than one character and adding an extra makes it the same sub cost as wow.
A lot of people I know have higher expectations of FFXIV now, almost enough to either keep interested, even myself. This is coming from someone with very negative criticism towards open beta.
Right now the major thing hurting FFXIV is the lack of communication between EU/NA player bases and the dev team/design team. With horrible interviews when given the chance about the stupidest decisions such as asking stuff about marriage between characters or other inane things when there were more pressing problems at hand. (Seriously Google it)
Squeenix managed to salvage some respect with its waiting playerbase when they admitted that The Vision was flawed, and they're going to have to make adjustments to the game if it wants to be successful.
Realistically speaking FFXIV has the potential to be a good game, it won't be the next best thing at launch but neither were many other major hit MMO's such as Eve or WoW; having Alpha tested WoW's and gone through its beta's to retail it was pretty much on par with FFXI as we see the only major comparison we had though were games like diablo, eq, runescape, and such to compare though.
Also for previous comments, mmo-rpg is a genre, making mmo's is hard with a new formula functionality and business wise. Nearly all mmo-rpg games are in some way a clone of each other, no not dnd clones, but over all play the same because it's the RPG Genre as we know, hack and slack auto attack of diablo and random korean games and so on.
MMO pvp can be competitive, look at Eve Online. MW2 and Halo or such pvp can also be broken at times, remember some weapons were under tuned and over tuned. yatta yatta yatta, don't really feel like going to much into that direction of conversation.
FFXIV is stated to be for Casual and hard core players, which I can see in a sense. Guild leve's (in theory) were meant to be meant for the average player that plays 2 hours at a time a day, or has a sporadic schedule to commit to playing high amounts of time (be it school, work, military, or other stuff), while there was meant to alternative means for the hard core player. The general consensus because of Squeenix's stupid concepts and ideas and the way they're handling their betas, that most quests and stuff aren't in the beta. I've known some Japanese players on Palmecia as well that think squeenix is rather bad at handling or dealing with its player base.
|2010-09-15, 15:41
|Link #325
Mr. Bushido
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Canada
Age: 31
Aside from some of the Free-to-Play MMO's like Lord of the Rings (where you do have to buy additional character slots), I can't think of too many other subscription-based MMO that makes you pay for more characters. Its just stupid, and is really just a money grab.
|2010-09-15, 16:04
|Link #326
Tastes Cloudy
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Snake Way
Age: 30
While instead of having to make a new character to play all the classes, you get to switch jobs on the spot. Instead of being stricted to knowing only 2 professions you can do them all if you so wish
Instead of "Duuuur, me have no more memory to do Tailoring duuur"
but about "want to play all the races" just pick the race you like the most. all MMORPG's are money grabs.. what isnt?
|2010-09-15, 16:56
|Link #327
Army of One
Join Date: Apr 2007
|2010-09-15, 19:01
|Link #328
Mr. Bushido
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Canada
Age: 31
And about "picking the race I like the most". What if I like something about multiple races, I should be able to make one of each without paying more if I choose, like WoW.
And in regards to things I feel are improved in FFXIV over XI; one thing in particular comes to mind: movement speed. In FFXI characters were unbearably slow and it took forever to just move around the main towns. FFXIV has a speed of movement that seems more in line with an MMO, and its far more bearable than XI.
|2010-09-15, 20:23
|Link #330
Army of One
Join Date: Apr 2007
|2010-09-15, 22:08
|Link #331
Mr. Bushido
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Canada
Age: 31
I do not share your tastes I suppose...FFXI was nothing but a chore in the early levels, it was in no way "fun".
|2010-09-15, 22:24
|Link #332
Army of One
Join Date: Apr 2007
Force grouping I think is better because it forces you to play cooperative and meet new people. I met a ton of cool people and did a lot of fun events with.
I think I just got a lot out of the game because I did everything pretty much and had no issues with getting anything done. I assume some players find it a chore because they aren't good with dealing with others, know how to set things up, or maybe just don't have enough time irl.
Last edited by Sassarai; 2010-09-15 at 22:35.
|2010-09-15, 22:25
|Link #333
Join Date: Oct 2007
As for forced grouping, I miss it. The recent spate of MMOs have been too solo centric, making grouping entirely optional and unnecessary, which kind of defeats the point of "MM". It also created far better communities with people interacting intelligently lest they be entirely shunned by people. The likes of WoW have made people in to blithering idiots who just faceroll their keyboards, queue for instagroups that magically teleport you to them and out of them, so people don't even learn the world. It's disappointing.
I had hope for XIV bringing back some of the oldschool feel, with an improved UI over XI's epic failure, but they still have the same console-centric design (despite console release being much delayed) which is a huge turnoff to me. If they just used a real interface I'd probably buy it.
|2010-09-15, 22:48
|Link #334
Army of One
Join Date: Apr 2007
1)Memorable places - so far a ton of complaints on how bland and copy/paste everything is.
2)Fun battle system - Surplus- It doesn't seem like something I'll like and the controls on the keyboard is horrible. Plus fighting hares, sheeps, plants, etc needs to change. FFXI had goblins, orcs, quadavs, etc that were better so I expected more creative monsters for a game that's 5-6 years newer. Throw in some beastmen!
3) Force grouping but make it so it's not as strict on what type of jobs are needed. I hate having to wait an hour or so just so there was a red mage available in ffxi.
4) Music - All of FFXIs tune were memorable to me while I don't care for any of FFXIVs atm.
It's still beta so I'm hoping things will improve but I'll probably wait till I hear more positive reviews on it before I buy.
|2010-09-15, 22:55
|Link #335
Mr. Bushido
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Canada
Age: 31
|2010-09-15, 23:29
|Link #336
Tastes Cloudy
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Snake Way
Age: 30
the UI is being tweaked and whats so bad about the areas? they look good imo, you need to get to high levels to get the cool shit.
|2010-09-16, 04:02
|Link #337
Ava courtesy of patchy
Join Date: Jan 2009
How about the skill graphical effect? I never played FFXI so I didn't know. Was the skill graphical effect flashy and cool? XD. This is one aspect of WoW and tons of other 3d RPG that I thought lacking, the skill to me looks really bland. I understand that flashy spell would make people lag like hell, but I always enjoy having flashy skill more than not having one XD
|2010-09-16, 12:00
|Link #338
So Like A Rose
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: Foxglove
Age: 31
I still have high hopes that FFXIV will be my first MMO the graphics are nice even though the playable characters look like rehashed versions of their XI counterparts, which is okay because it's looking like a pretty amazing game so far.
|2010-09-16, 12:07
|Link #339
blinded by blood
Ah well, it's probably for the best that this game is just more of the same. I don't need another psychologically-addictive grindfest sapping my soul away while I'm trying to go to college.
I'd really like to see an MMORPG actually use the strength of a persistent world--a little world, a sandbox, where the players can essentially do whatever they want.
|2010-09-16, 13:20
|Link #340
Cake lover Cookie ninja
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: UK
Age: 28
Too much whinning and crying when the game is far from final. Surely you ought to spend much more time to look past the skin and appreciate the true depth, something I doubt beta time can offer.
I'll get the game when its released on PC then I'll decide whether its worth subbing.
|Thread Tools


text:
Brittany Murphy: She Wasn't on Drugs, She Was "Afraid of Death"
Brittany Murphy's grief-stricken mom and husband appeared on Larry King Live last night to talk about her tragic death — and they didn't seem entirely lucid.
The late Brittany Murphy's husband, Simon Monjack, and mom, Sharon Murphy, appeared on Larry King Live Jan. 20, discussing Brittany's tragic death, one month ago on Dec. 20, at age 32.
The pair discussed the details of her death, repeating their claim that the young actress died of natural causes, and that she did not do drugs or have an eating disorder. The autopsy performed just after her death was inconclusive, and the toxicology and tissue test results have not been released yet.
Losing a loved one suddenly, at such a young age, is a horrible tragedy, and we can't imagine how terribly sad the two must feel. That said, they seemed distant, and their responses to King's questions weren't always 100% rational.
'You want to know what broke Brittany Murphy's heart? Hollywood broke Brittany Murphy's heart," Simon told King.
"You wake up in the morning and it's like a rebirth. It's… there's not enough time to… your dreams, be they good or bad, when you wake up and I reach out to touch or hold my wife and she isn't there."'
They showed the camera crew around their house, the same Hollywood Hills house where Brittany died, and showed off some of the large, framed photographs of the late actress.
"I'm comforted by these photographs," Simon said. "I'm comforted by the transformation from girl to woman that I witnessed."
Um, is it just us, or does that sound a little bit creepy?
Ten different prescription drugs were found at the scene of her death, many of which have been linked to other celebrity deaths (here's our list). Simon claimed that some of them were his, and that Brittany was "terrified of death" and wouldn't even drink champagne on New Year's Eve.
Our hearts go out to Simon and Sharon who are obviously still devastated over the loss of the young, incredibly talented actress. As Simon said, "I think the dust will settle, the truth will come out. I think people will come to realize the genius of Brittany Murphy and come to regret the way they treated her while she was alive."
Read More About Brittany Murphy's Tragic Death:

subset: commoncrawl


text:
ZSL London Zoo
ZSL London Zoo
Get up close and personal with all the amazing animals at ZSL London Zoo. Meet the hairiest, scariest, tallest and smallest animal, from the monkeys to the giraffes. There's lots of fun for the whole family!
- Spend a day at the famous ZSL London Zoo
- Visit the more than 760 different species
- Let the kids play in the petting zoo
- Come close to the tigers in Tiger Territory
- Visit the only living rainforest in London
Your ticket is valid on the date indicated or up to 30 days afterward.
Experience ZSL London Zoo
Visit the world's most famous Zoo ZSL London, which has been entertaining it's visitors since it's opening in 1847. The zoo is home to more than 760 animal species, big and small, as well as amazing heritage listed building as famous as it's inhabitants.
Penguins & Gorillas
Visit the penguins on the beach, the largest colony of Humboldt Penguins as they swim, dive and feed. Move through the pathways and end up with the majestic Western Lowland Gorilla, and wander from day into night in London's only living rainforest.
Tiger Territory
In 2013 ZSL London Zoo is turning into an amazing Tiger Territory. You will be able to explore the lush world of the Sumatran Tiger in the heart of London. The Tiger Territory takes you closer than ever to the natural environment of one of nature's most awesome predators.
Children's Petting Zoo
Here you can meet your favorite farm animals like sheep, cows, pigs, goats and chickens in this hands-on petting zoo, but you can also get close to some less common animal species like llamas and alpacas.
How do I get my tickets?
Shortly after your booking is complete your e-ticket will be sent directly to your email, just print it out and bring it on your tour.
Are there children's tickets?
Yes, children's tickets are available for children between age 3-15. Children from age 0-2 are free when accompanied by a paying adult.
ZSL London Zoo
Outer Circle
Regents Park
London NW1 4RY
View map
Business hours
Open daily at 10am. Closing times vary
Nearest tube: Camden Town


text:
Confirm Plan
Great, let's get started! First of all, confirm your plan.
- Bigger bags, typically 100g or 250g
- 4+ teas per month
- Perfect for groups, e.g. offices
Privacy policy
We are committed to safeguarding the privacy of our website visitors; this policy sets out how we will treat your personal information.
We will not share your personal information with any third party company.
We may collect, store and use the following kinds of personal information:
- information about your computer and about your visits to and use of this website, including your IP address, geographical location, browser type and version, operating system, referral source, length of visit, page views, website navigation
- information relating to any transactions carried out between you and us on or in relation to this website, including information relating to any purchases you make of our goods or services
- information that you provide to us for the purpose of registering with us
- information that you provide to us for the purpose of subscribing to our website services, email notifications
- any other information that you choose to send to us.
We will take reasonable technical and organisational precautions to prevent the loss, misuse or alteration of your personal information.
We will store the personal information you provide on our secure password- and firewall-protected servers. For greater security, we will not store sensitive debit and credit card details on our own servers; these are stored by Stripe, a leading online payments company.
All electronic transactions entered into via the website will be protected by encryption technology.
You acknowledge that the transmission of information over the internet is inherently insecure, and we cannot guarantee the security of data sent over the internet.
You are responsible for keeping your password [and other login details] confidential. We will not ask you for your password (except when you log in to the website).
Terms and Conditions
All prices are in pounds sterling unless otherwise stated. The tea products included in the subscription packages are zero rated for VAT, so VAT is not chargeable on the products.
Repartea is a monthly delivery service, paid monthly (except for gift subscriptions which are paid in a lump sum in advance). No payment will be taken at the time when a customer sets up a new monthly subscription. The first payment will be taken on the 1st day of the following month, and the delivery for that month will take place shortly afterwards, typically within a few days. Subsequent payments will be taken on the first day of each following month, and each monthly delivery will be dispatched typically within a few days of payment.
The customer can cancel the subscription at any time at no cost. The customer may also pause the subscription until further notice, or skip a month's payment and delivery and automatically resume the subscription the following month.
Deliveries will only be sent if the payment for the month in question has been taken successfully, and will not be sent if attempts to take payment for the month have been unsuccessful. In the event of an unsuccessful attempt to take payment, we will make several further attempts to take payment at intervals of days. We will notify the customer of each unsuccessful attempt via email.
Although Repartea offers customers the ability to choose specific teas for their monthly deliveries, we cannot always guarantee that the teas chosen will be available, in the event that a product is out of stock. If this happens, we will send the next preferred tea or teas according to the customer's defined preferences.


text:
So Excited to be a Part of The Makeup Show LA!
Exciting news! I'm so honored that I was asked to keynote The Makeup Show LA in March and am looking forward to being a part of such a great industry event. The Makeup Show LA continues to grow and deliver the largest PRO ONLY driven beauty event in Los Angeles, California.
Here is some additional info about the keynote forum and don't forget to visit The Makeup Show LA !
A Career in Makeup Mario Dedivanovic
Sunday, March 18, 2012 – 10:00am – 11:30am
Talented, sought-after makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic has secured a place among the world's best and most well-known makeup artists. He has collaborated on countless editorials and red carpet looks for celebrities and his work has graced the pages of top fashion magazines including Bazaar, Elle, Glamour, Vogue and Allure, among others. Renowned for his ability to create a flawless face, Mario specializes in subtle transformations, helping women draw out the best version of their natural complexion and features. Mario's emphasis on blending, sculpting and highlighting has established him as a perfectionist, capable of achieving picture-perfect looks. His work on celebrities including Michelle Williams, Amanda Bynes, Gina Gershon and Natasha Bedingfield is inspiring to both artists and women alike but Mario's consistently flawless work on his muse, Kim Kardashian has revolutionized the beauty world, helping turn Kim into a modern day beauty icon. Marios work as a makeup artist and the looks he creates have resulted in some of the most desired and replicated looks of all time, continuously inspiring people around the world. In this keynote seminar Mario gives insight into his own successful career, guides you through his detailed makeup application process, shares his coveted technique and generously offers advice to help bring your own career to the next level.
The Makeup Show LA 2012


text:
Hi folks
Is there much interest in DX communication using any (or all) of the amateur 28.0-29.7 MHz band, the UK-legal AM/SSB band 27.0-27.4 MHz, or the dubious region between these two? This general region is of interest to me, because the sizes of even simple antennas are manageable, and long-distance contacts ought to be possible, if the conditions are favourable. However, I don't hear a great deal in this area on my scanner; what I do hear is mostly German and Italian.
Best wishes


text:
As the US Air Force prepares for the third launch of its mysterious X-37B vehicle, BBC Future looks at what is known about the classified project.
In the early morning of 16 June, 2012, a top secret spaceplane made a picture perfect landing at the Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. To those unfamiliar with the vehicle, it might have looked roughly similar to the US space shuttle, the manned spacecraft that shuttled astronauts into space for three decades.
But this spaceplane, called the X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle, is very different. While it looks like a plane, is launched on a rocket, has a cargo bay and uses some of the same technology as the shuttle, such as thermal shielding to protect it during reentry, it is smaller and unmanned. It is designed to stay in orbit for months on end and can automatically land back on Earth. Perhaps more crucially, the Boeing-designed plane is operated by the US Air Force and its mission is a closely held secret, prompting a slew of speculation about its true purpose.
Since the first X-37B was launched in 2010, amateur satellite spotters have carefully followed the robotic spacecraft's orbit, while those unconnected with the program have speculated that the plane could be anything from an anti-satellite weapon to so-called "on demand reconnaissance," shorthand for a spy satellite that can be placed over any country in the world. Compounding the mystery was the launch of a second vehicle in 2011, which stayed in orbit for 469 days, long exceeding the Air Force's stated maximum requirement of 270 days for the spaceplane.
Now, a third launch is slated for 11 December, according to an Air Force spokesperson, once again ramping up the rumour mill. So, what do we actually know about the plane?
Tactical response
Early reports focused on the X-37B's seeming resemblance, at least in size and weight, to the X-20 Dynasoar (short for Dynamic Soarer), a 1950s-era hypersonic vehicle that was envisioned for a variety of military missions, including bombing and sabotaging enemy satellites. However, experts familiar with the X-37B programme emphasized that its technology is actually closer to the recently retired space shuttle (a fact reinforced by Boeings' proposal for a crewed version of the vehicle known as the X-37C). The Air Force blandly described the role of the X-37B in a factsheet given to media as a "reliable, reusable, unmanned space test platform".
The Air Force also says the mini-shuttle has two objectives: testing "reusable spacecraft technologies" and conducting "experiments which can be returned to, and examined, on Earth". Again, this is similar to the stated aims of the space shuttle. But many forget that earlier craft also had a secret military role. Although ostensibly a civilian program, it conducted a series of missions from 1982-1992 on behalf of the National Reconnaissance Office, carrying a series of classified spy satellites.
Similarly, most outside experts now agree that it's likely the robotic space plane is being used for some sort of secret reconnaissance. "I think the guess that makes most sense is quick-response tactical imaging, meaning hours to a couple of days from request to delivery," says Allen Thomson, a former CIA analyst.
Thomson says it is also possible that it could have a more mundane but useful task, such as "maintaining up-to-date general purpose mapping imagery." However, if that is the case, Thomson says that it could be a waste of money. "I think that the commercial satellites could and should do that cheaper and better than X-37B," he says. It is a view backed by parts of the scientific community.
Indeed, the X-37B launches comes in the middle of a larger debate about the role of government-operated spy satellites, which have proven enormously costly but can provide some of the most advanced imagery, versus commercial satellite imagery. The US intelligence community recently slashed its budget for commercial imagery, indicating that it was going back to greater reliance on its own classified satellites.
The view that the X-37B is a reconnaissance platform is strengthened by observations from amateur satellite watchers, who track the vehicles' orbits, and noticed that it has similar orbits to spy satellites and scientific remote sensing craft. In addition, they noticed the craft changing its orbital path several times during its test flights.
This is to be expected, says Joan Johnson-Freese, professor of national security studies at the US Naval War College in Newport. "The upcoming launch will continue just to see what the vehicle can do," she says. "One of the things they are testing is maneuverability. The problem with satellites in orbit is they are very predictably in certain orbits at certain times, and thus vulnerable to anti-satellite weapons (ASAT)."
Johnson-Freese says the military has long been interested in the ability of a spacecraft that has "the ability to evade, to maneuver, to not be in a predicable place at a predicable time."
She expects the Air Force will be "pressing the envelope for manoeuvrability and duration" during the X-37B's next flight. "That will give them the idea of potential missions where avoidance of ASATs comes into play."
'No weapons'
Although its orbits may be difficult to predict in advance, its tracks show where the X-37B has been and its likely purpose, says Brian Weeden, a technical advisor at the Secure World Foundation, a Washington-based foundation that focuses on space issues.
For example, he says, the X-37B flew at inclination of 42.79 degrees, which tells you how far north and south in latitude the spacecraft can see. "The tradeoff is that something at a 90 degree polar orbit covers the whole world, but its frequency is less; it may arrive only every couple of days," he says. "If something is 40 or 45 degrees, it would be covering a smaller portion [of the earth], but more often. "
At a 42.79 degree inclination, the X-37B would be useful for looking at a geographic region such as the Middle East, says Weeden, pouring cold water on one theory that that it was used to spy on China's spacelab, Tiangong-1. And given the current political context, he says, the Middle East "makes sense".
Weeden also suggests the X-37B's orbit may indicate that the military is trying out a new sensor system, such as radar imaging or hyperspectral sensors, which collect information across different wavelengths. He suggests this could be the case, because unlike satellites collecting light in the visible wavelength, the X-37B's orbits are not synchronized with the sun, a trick used to maintain a predictable angle between the sun, satellite and ground.
But, like with many of the theories surrounding the X-37B, he warns, "it is just speculation."
For its part, the Air Force itself is silent about the plane's use, only speaking to allay fears that it was a weapon. "I don't know how this could be called weaponisation of space. It's just an updated version of the space shuttle type of activities in space," said Gary Payton, the Air Force's deputy undersecretary for space programmes, in 2010. "We, the Air Force, have a suite of military missions in space and this new vehicle could potentially help us do those missions better."
Whatever its purpose; the X-37B is perhaps one of the few bright spots among the Pentagon's hypersonic test vehicle programs. The Air Force's X-51A Waverider, a scramjet powered hypersonic missile, suffered a fatal mishap earlier this year on a test flight, and never reached hypersonic speeds. Separately, another hypersonic prototype, known as the Falcon Hypersonic Test Vehicle-2, suffered mishaps in both flight tests, plunging into the ocean.
Those other efforts, which are focused on creating missiles, are still in early testing phase, while the X-37B is clearly further along.
"I think the one interesting question is whether this is just test and evaluation, or is it being used to be support real world operations," says Weeden. But like most questions about the plane, it is one that is currently impossible to answer.
If you would like to comment on this story, head over to our Facebook page or message us on Twitter.


text:
Decorated Flip FlopsPosted in Altered & 3D Projects on 05/29/2011 05:54 pm by Wendy
Welcome to yet another Close to My Heart Blog Hop. This month we are featuring buttons. CTMH has many new button shapes that are absolutely adorable!
The hop forms a circle so if you are starting here, simply continue until you make your way back. If you are coming from Nikka's blog you are on the right track.
Supplies used are all CTMH: Cherry-O Paper Pack, Love Letter Rub-ons, Colonial White Grosgrain Ribbon, and Buttons-Pink Assortment.
As you can see from the supply list, this was a very simple page. The scattering of buttons draws attention to the title. The idea came to me in my sleep – just drop a handful of buttons and let them be. This turned out to work well, giving a greater sense of randomness. The button at the top of the page with the ribbon is strategically placed to cover up a person in the background of the photo.
Now hop on over to Tracy's blog!
If you get lost along the way, see the previous post for a list of all the participants.


text:
The leading
USCIS Publishes CNMI Transitional Worker Final Rule
Released Sept. 7, 2011
WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published a final rule in today's Federal Register that establishes a Transitional Worker (CW) classification for workers in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). The CW classification allows employers in the CNMI to hire nonimmigrant workers who are otherwise ineligible to work.
A foreign worker may be eligible for CW status if he or she is:
An employer may be eligible to petition for a CW worker if the employer:
In most cases, employers may file for multiple beneficiaries on the same form. The filing fees needed to obtain CW status include:
A limited number of CW visas are available each fiscal year, based on the CNMI government's estimate of nonresident workers. The numerical limitation for fiscal year (FY) 2011 is 22,417 and for FY 2012 will be 22,416. The final rule mandates that the limitation must drop annually and that the Department of Homeland Security determine the fiscal-year limitation for CW workers for subsequent fiscal years beginning in FY 2013.
The CW visa classification is valid only in the CNMI and provides no basis for travel or work in any other part of the United States, except for nationals of the Philippines who may travel between the Philippines and the CNMI through the Guam airport. The final rule also provides for the grant of derivative CW status to spouses and minor children of CW workers.
USCIS is the agency within the Department of Homeland Security responsible for immigration benefits. For more information and announcements on immigration benefits specific to the CNMI, please visit the agency's CNMI Web page at www.uscis.gov/cnmi. For more information on USCIS and its programs, please visit www.uscis.gov or follow us on Twitter (@uscis), YouTube (/uscis) and the USCIS blog The Beacon.
Last updated:09/07/2011
Share this page | Bookmark this page
The leading immigration law publisher - over 50000 pages of free information!
© Copyright 1995- American Immigration LLC, ILW.COM


text:
- This event has passed.
The Clancys Quiz
February 20, 2018 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm
|Recurring Event (See all)
An event every week that begins at 7:30pm on Tuesday, repeating until January 30, 2019
Event Navigation
They say fish is good for the brain, so grab a table at the fishiest place in town and test your smarts. The Clancy's Quiz takes place every Tuesday night with our beloved host – Lewis! Lock in some mates, snare yourself a table and put on your thinking cap to win some great prizes each week.
7:30pm – Free entry


text:
Sandy shines light on Frelinghuysen
When Katrina came ashore in 2005, it was met by a solid phalanx of Gulf state Republicans with immense power over the machinery of federal appropriations. In the span of 10 days, a $51.8 billion aid package cleared Congress and was signed by President George W. Bush, a Texan himself and red-faced over his administration's response to the storm.
Nothing remotely like this has happened in the month since Hurricane Sandy — in part because of post-Katrina reforms. But the Northeast's damage estimates keep mounting: the latest from New Jersey on Friday evening was $29.4 billion. The White House is drafting a supplemental aid request. Pressure is growing for action before the new year.
Story Continued Below
It's a reckoning that will put a premium on what's become a weak Republican bench in Congress for states like New York and New Jersey — and the Northeast more generally.
Thirty years ago, four of the top 10 Republicans on the House Appropriations Committee were from the Northeast. Today there's only one, and for all the harping, it's little wonder why New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie was quick to embrace President Barack Obama's help prior to the elections.
Indeed, the Katrina experience isn't lost on Christie, a Republican who has reached out to former Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour and tapped McKinsey & Co. to give him credible numbers to take to Washington. And when the governor met Tuesday in Trenton with New Jersey's congressional delegation, the first lawmaker he called on was a press-shy, slightly built blueblood, Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-N.J.), who just happens to chair the House Appropriations panel that funds the Army Corps of Engineers.
"The agenda was the governor spoke and then Rodney. It was entirely appropriate," Rep. Rob Andrews (D-N.J.) told POLITICO. "It's a bit of luck, an act of providence he is there."
"I think Christie's relationship with Obama will help us just as Bush's embarrassment helped the Gulf states after Katrina. But if Rodney wasn't there, I might be giving you a different answer."
None of this diminishes the region's substantial Democratic clout.
Andrews himself has the ear of House leaders. New York's Rep. Nita Lowey (D-N.Y.) is the favorite to become the new ranking Democrat on House Appropriations. Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.) — albeit not the power he once was — sits on Senate Appropriations. Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) each has a claim on Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.).
But because of the anticipated cost and often divisive fights over funding offsets, any sustained recovery effort needs bipartisan support. And Frelinghuysen stands out as the region's best bet because of his committee seat — and the moderate tone he sets.
For New Jersey, his responsibility for the Corps's budget is a natural fit, given the devastation to the state's shoreline and dunes. Equally important, the 66-year-old lawmaker is next in line to take over the House appropriations defense panel, a post that controls over a half-trillion dollars in annual spending affecting all corners of the nation.


text:
BBC News
- HS2: Review to examine costs and benefits of rail project
- Lucas Dobson: Body found in river is missing boy
- Aras Amiri: British Council worker jailed in Iran a 'bargaining chip'
- EU migration to UK 'underestimated' by ONS
- Brexit: PM to meet Angela Merkel with call to scrap backstop
- Andrew Harper: PC's death inspires thanks from public
- Titanic sub dive reveals parts are being lost to sea
- Ryanair wins court bid to block Irish strike
- Wollaton Park deer selfie warning ignored by visitors
- Shipping containers used to house homeless children
- Labour: Groups press for more ethnic minority candidates
- Litter of puppies stolen during armed raid in Castlemilk
- 'Men have always taken the glory': Why more women are becoming farmers
- RuPaul's Drag Race UK: Meet the queens for first UK series
- Why body image is a weighty issue at the Fringe
- Cheltenham postman turned professional wrestler
- Being homeless at 14 was terrifying, says Bridgend teenager
- Brexit will force Scot from German mayor's post
- Wildcats litter: The new arrivals giving hope for the species' survival
- Beyoncé's choreographer brings 'Flawless' dancing to London
- Does the future of farming exist beneath city streets?
- Back-to-school uniform swap-shop is Dorset mum's mission
- 'Why me? I had ovarian cancer at 14'
- Andrew Harper: PC murder accused Jed Foster appears in court
- Whaley Bridge dam: Repairs 'may take three years'
- Further improvement in Scotland's public finances
- Brexit: Simon Coveney rules out bilateral no-deal talks with the UK
- Brexit: Michael Gove pledges to ensure traffic flows through ports
Local Pubs in HOTHAM:
BeerInTheEvening.com search for pubs in HOTHAM
TheGoodPubGuide.co.uk search for pubs in HOTHAM


text:
(CBS News) For the first time, the FBI added a woman to its most wanted terrorist list Thursday. Joanne Chesimard was convicted of murdering New Jersey state trooper Werner Foerster in 1973, breaking out of prison in 1979 and has been on the run for more than three decades.
This week -- on the 40th anniversary of the killing -- the FBI added Chesimard, who is also the step-aunt and godmother to rapper Tupac Shakur, to its most wanted terrorist list and upped the reward for her capture to $2 million.
Authorities believed Chesimard escaped to Cuba and reportedly still lives and travels to countries friendly to the Cuban regime. She was considered to be the leader of the Black Liberation Army in the 1970s and now lives under the name Assata Shakur.
CBS News' John Miller, who served as an assistant director at the FBI during Chesimard's time on the run, said she was "the soul of the Black Liberation Army," in the '70s. The group planned assassinations of police officers in major American cities, including New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta and San Francisco. The anniversary of the "shootout on the New Jersey Turnpike" was the "catalyst for doubling the reward" for her capture on Thursday, Miller said.
Miller described her "incredibly daring" 1979 prison escape, explaining that "two men smuggled into the prison, took guards hostages and broke her out ... in 1984, they smuggled her to Mexico."
"Using a network of Cuban intelligence officers who worked with American radical groups, they got her into Cuba," Miller said, where she has lived out in the open and working as a teacher at Cuban universities until more recently when she went "a little bit back underground."
Despite the revival of attention on Chesimard this week, Miller said it is unlikely the FBI will be able to capture her in Cuba, a country that has historically been a welcoming hideout for U.S. fugitives. There are currently 70 American fugitives living in Cuba, according to Miller, and Chesimard has reportedly been provided with false papers by the Cuban government in order to travel in disguise to Mexico, Venezuela and several other countries.
Still, it is in the interest of the U.S. to reiterate the importance of her capture because as "we learned from the 'Arab Spring,'" Miller said, "regime change can happen quickly," and the FBI wants to guarantee that if there is rapid change in Cuba, new leaders and authorities are aware that Chesimard is valuable to the U.S.
Watch the complete discussion with John Miller about Joanne Chesimard in the player above


text:
It's all about the conversion of technology.
Commercial communications cabling contractors, installers, designers, and end users were reminded that lifelong learning comes with the territory at the BICSI 2002 Cabling Installation Expo and Workshop, October 22-24, as a number of developing technologies converged on the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence, R.I. and proved once again that the industry's product offerings are constantly changing and evolving. Hosted by Cabling Installation & Maintenance magazine and BICSI, the conference gave those who were willing the opportunity to learn about those new cabling technologies and the latest in installation and design techniques.
Workshop session highlights. In keeping with that theme of education and learning, the conference offered a variety of sessions for those who wanted to get off the show floor and expand their cabling knowledge.
Labeling and record keeping – John C. Adams, BICSI Master Instructor and owner of Adams Telecomm, detailed the labeling and record keeping procedures required by the revised ANSI/TIA/EIA-606-A standard on the administration of installed cabling systems. This document describes how to mark cables, telecommunications rooms, patch panels, pathways and termination position identifiers.
The standard sets up the following four classes of administration, taking into consideration differences in size and complexity of a building or campus:
Class 1 systems have fewer than 100 users and a single telecommunications room.
Class 2 systems have hundreds of users and multiple telecommunications rooms in a single building.
Class 3 systems have more than 1,000 users in a campus spread throughout multiple buildings
Class 4 systems have thousands of users and a telecommunications system serving a number of geographical locations.
Each successive class builds upon the data required in the preceding one, allowing a common nomenclature and ease of growth. The 606-A standard permits paper-based record keeping as an option for a Class 1, 2, or 3 system, but recommends a software program – such as an Excel spreadsheet or a cable management system (CMS) program – be used in a Class 4 system. When used as a planning tool on major cabling projects, a CMS can offer considerable savings in time and manpower. Adding to those savings, a CMS can appreciably shorten the time needed to troubleshoot a problem by allowing a technician to run a search for the location of the problem or phone number and see the entire path and connection points for the circuit, without wasting time doing a lengthy inspection.
According to the standard, labels should be printed or generated by some mechanical method rather than handwritten. Color-coding is required for different types of cables and for various connection points. It also underscores the importance of giving more time and attention to proper labeling procedures and keeping good records of things like the location of the work area outlet connector, outlet hardware, cable type and length, and cross-connect hardware.
Customer-owned outside plant systems – Adams also presented general guidelines for designing an outside plant (OSP), commonly described as the communications infrastructure for an installation exterior to the building. The design criteria for this type of outdoor work is covered in the ANSI/TIA/EIA-758 customer-owned OSP standard. Codes and standards, such as the NEC, the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), and OSHA rules must also be observed.
In addition to choosing the most advantageous route, other concerns include selecting the best type of pathway to use – underground, aerial, direct burial or a combination. Each pathway type has its own benefits and limitations. For example, aerial is the easiest type to install, but is very susceptible to damage. Other things to consider include coordination with other trades, right-of-way issues, easements, complying with the bonding and grounding system requirements, and growth factors. Some of the most difficult decisions involve the use of optical fiber cable: what type to use, quantity of fibers, indoor/outdoor type, armored or non-armored, size, rating, and the list goes on.
Fire stop systems – Mike Tobias, president, Unique Fire Stop Products, Robertsdale, Ala., explained some of the important factors to consider when selecting a fire stop system. For example, the user should know the hourly rating of the barrier to be penetrated; a concrete block wall is typically considered a 2-hr barrier. He also pointed out the usefulness of contacting the manufacturers for help in system selection, and emphasized the need to always follow the installation instructions provided with each product. He cautioned the installer to resist any temptation to exceed the limitations of the penetration.
Tobias noted that advanced planning is needed when correcting violations in existing installations, and you should get the approval of the local inspector for the specific system you're planning to install. At the end of the job, the documentation warning label provided with the system should be posted and the completed job should be photographed as evidence of compliance.
Fiber optic test equipment – Seymour Goldstein, engineering manager, Fluke Networks, Inc., explained how an optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) can complement the light source power meter (LSPM) and the optical loss test set (OLTS) when testing a fiber system. The OTDR offers a new way of assuring that a fiber installation will support a given application.
The LSPM is the simplest method for testing loss. It places a light source at one end of the fiber and a power meter at the other end. The OLTS combines the light source and power meter in a single unit, allowing one OLTS to be placed on each fiber link end, thus increasing productivity. Offering a very accurate measurement of total optical loss, the OLTS is available for an LED, a VCSEL, or a laser source system. However, the OLTS does have its drawbacks. It doesn't differentiate between fiber and connector loss, referencing the power meter to the light source adds some measurement uncertainty, and a mandrel wrap is needed with the LED source.
An OTDR sends pulses of laser light through the fiber and the resulting signal trace shows the precise amount of power loss through the cable and at each connector or splice joint. An OTDR will also detect any unexpected and potentially troublesome source of loss, such as a very tight cable bend, and pinpoint where this occurs. In addition, the OTDR measures and documents cable footage, which is useful information. It requires only a single technician at one end of the fiber link, and, although some reading errors can occur, no referencing is needed. Like the OLTS, the OTDR also provides documentation certification of test results.
As the use of centralized network designs like a collapsed backbone and fiber-to-the-desk gain acceptance, the economic value of OTDR testing will become more apparent.
Home networking and automation – Brian Ensign, technical marketing manager, Leviton Voice and Data Division, Bothell, Wash., reviewed the latest technologies involved in delivering and integrating voice (telephone, computer modem and fax transmission), video (base band for surveillance and broadband for cable-TV or satellite service), data (a LAN to interconnect computers and printers), alarm and security devices (dial-out capability for fire and burglar alarms), HVAC, and lighting control throughout the home.
Ensign affirmed the usefulness of the TIA/EIA 570-A "Residential Cabling Standard," and noted that it now has three addendums ¯ No. 1 for security, No. 2 for home automation, and No. 3 for whole house audio. The standard offers two grades of cabling and hardware: The Grade 1 level provides minimal telecom support and video service, using one 4-pair UTP Cat. 3 or better (typically Cat. 5) cable and one RG-6 coaxial cable to each information outlet. Dual-shielded RG 6 coaxial cable with F connectors are required. At the Grade 2 level, two 4-pair UTP Cat. 5 or better cable and connectors (Cat. 5e is recommended) and two RG-6 coaxial cables are used. One of the Cat. 5 cables is for voice and the other is for data. Optical fiber remains an optional medium for future high-speed, broadband applications. Star topology is required for cabling in both cases, with a 90-m maximum link length from the distribution device to the outlet.
Ensign explained the need for setting up the wring layout with a star topology, and the benefit of following the Grade 2 specifications for maximum network longevity in residences—such a network has a typical lifespan of more than 100 years. He noted that fiber-to-the-home may be the best long-term solution for meeting exploding bandwidth demands created by upcoming video applications.
Cabling for data centers – Roger Jette, Cable Management Solutions, Cerritos, Calif., and Brian Donahue, Wrightline, Worcester, Mass., discussed the issues involved in designing and installing cabling in a data center. With the trend toward the miniaturization of server hardware and the rise of server farms, electric power requirements for this type of space has greatly increased. In one case, a major technology firm is using a value of 600W/SF in the electric power distribution design of its data center.
This concentration of electric power in a small space increases the need for as much as 2.27 tons of cooling per server cabinet to achieve good heat dissipation. Other considerations include advanced fire protection systems and the need to create dedicated cabling pathways for the large concentration of cabling these modern data centers require. Good design practice places the permanent backbone cabling in the overhead spaces for protection and isolation, and places equipment cables in the under-floor spaces. In this case, a cable management system, such as cable tray, is vital.
The power of Ethernet – Charles Di Minico, CDT Corp., Pittsburgh, provided an overview of the current draft for the Ethernet 802.3af standard, which would provide electric power over Ethernet cables. He described how a voice-over-IP telephone handset (an Ethernet device) can be powered over unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cabling.
He cited a technology firm that cut 40% off $120 to $150 it costs to wire a single desktop by installing only one cable to each station, instead of separate data and voice cables. The desktop computer plugs into the 10/100 switches built into the IP telephones. What's more, with the old PBX system, the firm used to pay a contractor $85 in reprogramming charges each time someone moved into a new office. Now the firm's IT staff can handle all changes from its headquarters location.
Because it's much easier to run low-voltage data cabling through a building than to provide electrical outlets to numerous access points for a wireless network, Power over Ethernet (PoE) is becoming a big factor in this market. If you install access points running on PoE, the installation costs diminish and you can put access points and switches on central backup power. However, work still needs to be done to achieve standardized power supply equipment, connecting hardware, and a protocol that recognizes when a device is inserted into the network.
A power supply with a rating of 44VDC and 230mA and an operating voltage range between 37VDC and 57VDC, is envisioned in the standard. Possible additional applications include building automation systems, security access and control, point-of-sale terminals, lighting control, and home automation/entertainment equipment.
Attendees to BICSI's cabling expos can consistently look forward to a thorough update on the latest technologies and installation practices in the industry, and this year's conference was no exception. And those who took advantage of the informational seminars presented got the opportunity to get a leg up on the rest of their contemporaries.


text: Compiling the H2D2 programming language for AVR micros 14 August 2012 david Code I've been trying to make my latest attempt at writing a programming language (which I'm currently calling H2D2) as portable as possible. So I decided to try and recompile it for AVR microprocessors using WinAVR. It worked fine with just some very minor tweaks (and the odd bug fix). So here's a simple H2D2 program running on a (simulated) AVR microprocessor: Specifically, it's a simulated ATmega128 running inside VMLAB. The program just writes out a series of ASCII characters in a loop, like this: loop loop (c=65) print c repeat (c=c+1 if c<91) repeat There have also been some more improvements to the syntax, where I'm continuing to draw on DALIS for inspiration. This time round I seem to be making more use of brackets. More things are coming out looking like C functions, which is why we have loop() and repeat(). I'll probably enforce brackets with if() as well I expect. Currently, the microprocessor is parsing the source code, generating the syntax tree (i.e. compiling to H2D2 bytecode) and then running it in the H2D2 Virtual Machine. It might be better to just have the VM on a microprocessor and somehow get the bytecode onto the device pre-compiled. But at least this microprocessor example demonstrates that my C code is reasonably portable, hopefully I can keep it like this. In reality running a Virtual Machine on top of a small microprocessor might not be very practical, but I'm just trying to make sure that my code can target other devices really... I'm tempted to try running this code on my Fez Panda II by means of RLP, which should allow me to run H2D2 as native ARM code (being called from inside the .Net Micro Framework), that might have to be tried out.


text: Eliminate the long waits for preparing hot menu items. The Miracle Steamer uses plain tap water to heat and cook foods. The generator converts water into super-heated dry steam for intense top-down heat. This cooks and finishes foods to keep the original textures, colors, flavors, and nutrients. This unit features two steam options—push-button action for instant results and a programmable timed cycle for longer steaming.


text:
University of Queensland health and medical research projects aimed at improving the nation's healthcare will benefit from a national allocation of more than $483 million announced today.3 December 2016
Employees and group members respect leaders who embody the goals of the team, according to new research from The University of Queensland.8 January 2014
Graduation is a milestone achievement for any student, but University of Queensland PhD graduate candidate Michelle Morgan has done it while fighting for her life.12 December 2013
The University of Queensland is restructuring its faculties from 1 January 2014.9 December 2013
Australia is at risk of an increase in discrimination, a University of Queensland Professor warns.15 November 2013
Why are humans the peculiar creatures that we are? How did we become so different from other animals? How, in fact, are we different?5 November 2013
While most Queenslanders are all too aware of the impact natural disasters can have on their lives and the community, new research being carried out at The University of Queensland's School of Social Science aims to investigate the specific impact...14 October 2013
Creativity and genius are commonly seen as attributes of an individual, but new research indicates the role played by the surrounding group may be just as important.3 October 2013
A vaccine against cervical cancer, a global parenting program, new forms of pain relief, better yielding crops and improved medical imaging are some of many high-impact outcomes of University of Queensland research.19 September 2013
Three University of Queensland media experts bring to light the ways individuals' lives are invaded in the digital age in a documentary focused on surveillance issues that WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange raises.16 September 2013
The University of Queensland Business School has been ranked number one in Australia for its MBA program in the Financial Review BOSS MBA survey.13 September 2013
A University of Queensland researcher has warned that refugee women and children face increased risks under the Federal Government's policy of sending asylum seekers to Nauru and Papua New Guinea.15 August 2013
Student performance on tests should not be the only criteria for judging schools, according to a University of Queensland-led project in Bundaberg, Childers and Gin Gin.1 August 2013
Researchers at The University of Queensland are offering a free depression intervention for young adults with high functioning autism spectrum disorders (ASD) who are feeling sad, depressed, or stressed.1 August 2013
Two University of Queensland students have the chance to launch careers in the competitive international development sector, thanks to the university's strong links with a major global development management firm.30 July 2013
Telling someone they are going to die and that further treatment is futile is a regular challenge for many doctors, but few have had formal training in how to do it.10 July 2013
Dane Moores was one of 20 young Australians recognised for their talent and vision at a gala dinner in Melbourne for the 2013 Australian Leadership Awards.29 May 2013
Have you ever wanted to dive into tropical reef research with a world-renowned marine scientist? Maybe travelling many times faster than the speed of sound interests you more?21 May 2013
University of Queensland's archaeology students are able to dig up the ancient past and investigate contemporary murder scenes, thanks to a $340,000 purpose-built outdoor teaching area that includes a projectile firing range.13 May 2013
Researchers from The University of Queensland are helping to establish the Middle East as a zone free from nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction (WMD).7 May 2013
- 1 of 20
- next ›


text:
Men's Tote Bags
Men's tote bags in a selection of classic colours and structured and slouchy shapes. The ideal bag for everyday use, designs are spacious and versatile with detachable shoulder straps and multiple internal pockets. The collection features both grainy leather and check with leather trims for a refined finish.
The settings have now been applied. {0} items found
The settings have now been cleared
Sort by price


text:
A Chinese Internet address was the source of a cyberattack on one of the South Korean companies hit in a massive computer shutdown that affected five other banks or media companies, initial findings indicated Thursday.
It's too early to assign blame — Internet addresses can easily be manipulated and disguised — but suspicion for Wednesday's shutdown quickly fell on North Korea, which has threatened Seoul with attack in recent days because of anger over U.N. sanctions imposed for its Feb. 12 nuclear test.
Experts say hackers often attack via computers in other countries to hide their identities. South Korea has previously accused North Korean hackers of using Chinese addresses to attack.
The crash Wednesday caused computer networks at major banks and top TV broadcasters to crash simultaneously. It paralyzed bank machines across the country and raised fears that this heavily Internet-dependent society was vulnerable.
A Chinese address created the malicious code in the server of one of the banks, Nonghyup, where computers crashed, according to an initial analysis by the state-run Korea Communications Commission, South Korea'stelecom regulator.
It is expected to take at least four to five days for the infected computers to recover fully.
Regulators have distributed vaccine software to government offices, banks, hospitals and other institutions to prevent more outages.


text: Purulia is one the famous city in West Bengal .There are many types of Hotels in Purulia which are available for online booking. You can choose 2 Star Hotels in Purulia and book best hotels at a reasonable rates with Indiahotelsroom.com . You can view all these amazing places at Purulia by staying there in some good hotels comfortably Purulia , You can book 2 Star Hotels in Purulia well in advance and live comfortably during your holidays in season time at discounted Price.


text:
If you LOVE creating Clean and Simple TAGS or CARDS, this challenge is for YOU! Every two weeks we'll feature a designer's project for inspiration. You'll link up your creation, then come back to see if IT was TAGGED as the winner! Our focus will be tags but a card, scrapbook layout and journaling card with a tag, even if it's teeny tiny, is acceptable. Even bookmarks and scraplings can take the form of a tag. Just have fun and be creative with TAGS!
• Create a new, not previously posted CAS tag project.
• You can submit multiple projects but they must be posted separately.
• Please use the challenge project provided for your inspiration.
• You're welcome to combine with up to 3 other challenges.
• If you have a blog please include the project inspiration graphic in your post.
• You can link to a Flickr, Instagram, Splitcoast or another online gallery if you don't have a blog.
• Please place a text link to the Tag You're It! challenge blog in your post.
• Link to your post and not to your entire blog when adding your project to InLinkz.
• Please consider adding the Tag You're It! badge to your blog.
• Most importantly have fun, be creative and challenge yourself to try something new.
Design Tip: You can interpret the inspiration tag projects in any way you please just as long as you use some element of the project. To qualify for a
win, you must explain how you were inspired. Please read the What is CAS? page to learn more about the design style this challenge is focusing on.
Challenge Schedule: Our new challenge and our TAGGED winner will be posted on the first and third Friday of every month at 9:00am EST. The challenge Inlinkz will close on the Wednesday prior to the new challenge at 9:00am EST.
Please LIKE us on Facebook so you can get important updates and special announcements!


text:
Friday, January 27, 2012
Friday Finds and Fun: 27 January 2012
This week Marian Pierre-Louis asks "Where Do You Turn for Research Guidance?" and starts the list, which is filled out with lots of good resources suggested in the comments. From another angle, however, I have been musing this week about how we can learn research techniques from published family narratives. I happen to have three: John Philip Colletta'a Only a Few Bones, which I am currently reading; Steve Luxenberg's Annie's Ghosts, which I read recently; and Leslie Albrecht Huber's The Journey Takers, which I read a while back (and which is currently loaned out, so I do not have it in the picture and have to recall the details - probably imperfectly - from memory).
It is interesting to compare the different approaches the books take in presenting their research and what can be learned from them. All three have end notes and all devote separate sections to distinguish the "dramatis personae."
The narrative part of Colletta's book is almost exclusively occupied by the story he uncovered in his research, with both posited and documented details, and only occasional mentions or hints of the sources and evidence behind the story. It is an interesting story, but for anyone researching in the locations where the story is set the goldmine is in the extensive endnotes. The endnotes paint an equally fascinating picture of how wide a researcher actually has to cast his or her net to get the whole story.
Luxenberg incorporates his sources and techniques into his story, though the endnotes elaborate on the sources and provide additional historical background. We genealogists and family historians often think of ourselves as detectives, and Luxenburg's tale is a variation on this - in this case, we have a researcher who has the skills of/thinks like an investigative reporter. In addition to listing a few rather surprising sources, Luxenburg drives home the other essential quality genealogists/researches must have in addition to analytical skill: persistence - persistence in the face of obstacles, persistence in spite of discouragement, persistence when confronted by evidence that gives the lie to everything you thought you knew, and persistence to the point of chutzpah when necessary.
Leslie Albrecht Huber's The Journey Takers picks up the themes of persistence and casting our nets wide and moves them into the realm of space and time, i.e., taking the initiative to go as far afield as you need to - to your ancestor's homeland - and, as the years pass, to stick to following your ancestors' paths, despite the interruptions of "real life." She studies the language (German) of some of her ancestors, visits as many ancestral locations as possible, and immerses herself in their lives of long ago, even when the present persists in trying to pull her away.
So in addition to techniques, all three books point to a kind of ultra-commitment to the pursuit of our ancestors, something like the extreme effort put forth by the best athletes: do as much as you can and then do more, find everything you can find and then search some more, immerse yourself completely.
8 comments:
I'm glad I could help you out with the Brooklyn research! It's a very big help for me, so I know it must be for you too.ReplyDeleteReplies
Kathleen - I am really in awe of some of the Brooklyn resources, plus NY Vital Records is really good about getting back with death certificates, for instance. At least now, when I find a new cemetery, I won't take it for granted - I'll go look for a website!Delete
Looking forward to hearing more about what you are learning about Brooklyn research!ReplyDeleteReplies
Jacqi - I'll try to post all the new Brooklyn "stuff" I learn about and find; who knows, maybe I'll even take a research trip there!Delete
Our local genealogical society, Hamilton Co. (Ohio), brought John Philip Colletta for a full-day seminar a few years ago. It was because of him that I initially began blogging. He encouraged us to write our stories. I also got to hear Leslie Albrecht Huber speak at the OGS Conference last year. You brought back memories of both. They were so inspirational.ReplyDeleteReplies
Kathy - I have heard both speak as well, and heard Steve Luxenberg when he spoke to the Fairfax Genealogical Society - all were excellent. Now to get the discipline to write my own family stories....Delete
Seems like I remember reading Colletta's book a while back. I got to see him speak at a seminar several years ago as well. I enjoyed him immensely!ReplyDelete
Luxenberg's book is at my local library, hopefully I can scoop it up the next time I'm out there. I didn't find anything in the library on Huber unfortunately.
Thanks for the info!Replies
Dawn - I think you'll really like Luxenberg's book - there are a lot of elements of a mystery there. Lesley's book might be filed under Albrecht if the library has it.Delete


text:
Posts Tagged 'library'
Amber Jain's list of *free* books available online for free
Quoting Stewart Brand:
I guess after reading the preceding quote, the intent of this blog post is clear.
I wrote a related blog-post sometime back: Links to *free* legal 'readable stuff' online.. This post is an extension of the idea behind that post.
I'll post links to books (in no particular order) that are available online for free here. I'll update this list whenever possible. If there are similar links/resources that your know of, post them in comments:
0. The C Book, second edition (by Mike Banahan, Declan Brady and Mark Doran)
This was originally published by Addison Wesley in 1991. This book is no longer in print though it can be read online for free.
The C book
1. Handbook of Applied Cryptography – fifth printing (by Alfred J. Menezes, Paul C. van Oorschot and Scott A. Vanstone)
Handbook of Applied Cryptography
2. Bruce Eckel's Free Electronic Books/seminar etc:
See also: Links to *free* legal 'readable stuff' online.
Links to *free* legal 'readable stuff' online.
Quoting Stewart Brand:
Richard Stallman restated it as follows:
I believe that all generally useful information should be free. By 'free' I am not referring to price, but rather to the freedom to copy the information and to adapt it to one's own uses… When information is generally useful, redistributing it makes humanity wealthier no matter who is distributing and no matter who is receiving.
I guess that preceding quotes pretty much clarify the intent of this blogpost.
In this post I'll link all websites (in no particular order) that provide any number of ebooks/magazines/journals/thesis/dissertations etc. online for free. I'll update this list whenever possible. If there are similar links/resources that your know of, post them in comments:
0. Amber Jain's list of *free* books available online for free
This is my personal list of free books available online that may or may not be listed on pages linked below.
1. FreeTechBooks.com:
This site lists free online computer science, engineering and programming books, textbooks and lecture notes, all of which are legally and freely available over the Internet.
2. Universal Digital Library (Million book project):
3. List of digital library projects (wikipedia):
4. List of open-access journals (wikipedia):
5. (US) Patent full text and full page image databases:
6. ODLIS — Online Dictionary for Library and Information Science (by Joan M. Reitz):
7. Cambridge Dictionaries online:
8. Digital library of India:
9. Delnet database of digital libraries of the world:
10. Networked Digital Library of Thesis and Dissertations:
11. Directory of open access journals (doaj):
12. DELNET's list of "Engineering and Technology E-journals":
13. SARAI (South Asia Resource Access on the Internet):
14. 100 Useful Links for eBook Lovers by onlinecourses.org:
15. Project Gutenburg:
16. Sugar on a Stick Ebooks list (mostly for children but *not* all):
17. O'Reilly Open Books Project:
Searching google with search term "site:oreilly.com oreilly openbooks" (without quotes) lists almost all of them.
18. Cheat Sheets:
19. Food for thought (University of Sussex's Communication REsearch Group)
18. Medical-related free books/journals etc:
1. Free medical books: http://freebooks4doctors.com/
2. Full text medical journals: http://www.freemedicaljournals.com/
See also: Amber Jain's list of *free* books available online for free


text:
Architecture professor and department chair Karen Fairbanks's firm, Marble Fairbanks, has received World-Architect's "Building of the Year 2013" award for its work on the Glen Oaks Branch Library in Queens. The project won the Public Choice award after receiving about one-fifth of all votes cast; it also won the Editor's Choice award for bringing thoughtful design to a civic amenity in eastern Queens.
Image Source: American-Architects
The Glen Oaks Library was featured as part of American-Architects' Building of the Week series last year, in which one building from each of the 50 states was highlighted.
Learn more about the Glen Oaks Library and the Building of the Year award.
Prof. Fairbanks joined Barnard's faculty in 1996. She is the Ann Whitney Olin Professor of Professional Practice in Architecture and Chair of the Department of Architecture, where she teaches design studios and seminars on architecture and technology. In addition to her teaching duties for the Department of Architecture, she is affiliated with Barnard's Urban Studies program.


text: This 16,433-acre natural area is actually a 75-mile scenic drive. The park provides a beautiful scenic drive along PA 120 from Emporium, through Renovo to Lock Haven. All along the road are unspoiled forest lands, beautiful hills and deep valleys.Four major hiking and backpacking treks include Quehanna, Bucktail Path, Donut Hole and Chuck Keiper trails.In the fall, the colors are breathtaking and people drive many miles to attend the Flaming Foliage Festival at Renovo in October. In the spring, mountain laurel and the fresh green foliage are worth the trip. Watch for Pennsylvania Elk!


text:
South Point linebacker Daishon Davis on Monday was named to the Associated Press all-state prep football team.
South Point linebacker Daishon Davis on Monday was named to the Associated Press all-state prep football team.
The 6-foot, 210-pound junior was one of four linebackers chosen for the team in balloting by 17 statewide media members. Davis tied for third among the linebackers with five votes.
Davis, the Big South 3A Conference defensive player of the year, recorded an area-high 199 tackles (117 solo) as South Point finished with a 12-1 record, won the Big South title and reached the third round of the 3AA state playoffs.
Davis also forced three fumbles, intercepted two passes, applied 10 quarterback pressures and broke up seven passes.
Davis was the only area player selected for the 28-player team, which included a 12-player offense, a 12-player defense and four special teams players.
The coach of the year will be announced Tuesday and the player of the year Wednesday.
Matthews Butler followed its state championship with a four-player showing on the all-state team. Receiver Uriah LeMay, linebackers Peter Kalambayi and Sean Wiggins, and defensive back Channing Stribling represented the Class 4AA champions, marking the second time in four seasons that Butler had four players on the AP team.
The Butler quartet helped the Bulldogs go 15-0 and win a third North Carolina High School Athletic Association championship in four seasons. Butler closed the year with a 56-28 win against Fayetteville Britt in the 4AA final.
Kalambayi was one of two players to make the AP team for the second straight season, joining Charlotte Vance linebacker Larenz Bryant.
Three other schools had a pair of all-state picks. Davidson Day had quarterback Will Grier and offensive lineman Schuyler Coleman. Charlotte Mallard Creek had receiver Marquez North and tight end Jaylen Samuels. Richmond County had offensive lineman Tyrone Crowder and defensive lineman Devant�e Covington.
Phillip Gardner: 704-869-1843; twitter.com/gazettephil. Aaron Beard of The Associated Press contributed to this report.
The voting breakdown for the 2012 Associated Press all-state prep football team for North Carolina, as cast by a 17 statewide media members in voting results released Monday. Number of votes are in parentheses.
QB � Will Grier, Davidson Day (6)
RB � T.J. Logan, Northern Guilford (15)
RB � Elijah Hood, Charlotte Catholic (10)
WR � Jordan Fieulleteau, Raleigh Wakefield (16)
WR � Uriah LeMay, Matthews Butler (11)
WR � Marquez North, Charlotte Mallard Creek (9)
TE � Jaylen Samuels, Charlotte Mallard Creek (9)
OL � Tyrone Crowder, Richmond County (13)
OL � Roger Prince Jr., Albemarle (13)
OL � Schuyler Coleman, Davidson Day (9)
OL � Trip McNeil, Davie County (7)
OL � Brandon Smith, East Forsyth (6)
DL � Tyquan Lewis, Tarboro (15)
DL � Lewis Neal, Wilson Hunt (11)
DL � Greg Gilmore, Hope Mills South View (8)
DL � Devant'e Covington, Richmond County (6)
LB � Peter Kalambayi, Matthews Butler (13)
LB � Larenz Bryant, Charlotte Vance (9)
LB � Daishon Davis, Belmont South Point (5)
LB � Sean Wiggins, Matthews Butler (5)
DB � Channing Stribling, Matthews Butler (10)
DB � Korrin Wiggins, Durham Hillside (9)
DB � Jack Tocho, Charlotte Independence (8)
DB � Jermany Hammonds, Monroe (7)
PK � Spencer Landfried, North Davidson (8)
P � Matt Wogan, Indian Trail Porter Ridge (14)
KR � DeAndre Thompkins, Swansboro (6)
ATH � Matthew Maennle, Swain County (6)


text:
Before Apple had Game Center it had OpenFeint, a gaming network that brought a cohesive online experience to countless iPhone, iPad and eventually Android games. Some of us may have opted to miss out on its fun features, but for many game developers it was a priceless tool. Come December 14, OpenFeint will be no more.
In early 2011, Asian social gaming giant GREE purchased OpenFeint for $104 million, acquiring its massive userbase but not doing much of anything with the platform itself. GREE has its own platform, and I assumed that eventually OpenFeint would be integrated into it. Just not quite so abruptly.
The closure, documented at GREE's OpenFeint developer page, gives developers of apps utilizing the service less than a month to either remove OpenFeint from their apps or migrate to the GREE platform. Once the service shuts down, according to the announcement, "OpenFeint network calls will be nonfunctional which may result in service disruptions to your game and a poor player experience".
Migration to the GREE platform is an option, but it's noted that a low-level integration can be completed in about a week—games that relied more heavily on OpenFeint could take much longer to move over.
So yeah, Happy Holidays, OpenFeint developers. I'll set aside some turkey for you next week as you are desperately scrambling to retool your games.


text:
New exciting Finishes added to the Delite Series
New exciting Finishes added to the Delite Series
SONOR, proudly celebrating a 135+ year tradition of excellence, has announced the launch of new products, to be introduced at the Winter NAMM Show 2011 in Anaheim, CA, USA.
The brilliant acoustic is not the only highlight of SONOR's Delite Series that has been the choice of drummers all around the globe, no matter what style of music they play, and for all kinds of different occassions.
You also have a choice of 13 extraordinary high-gloss finishes to choose from. Thanks to intensive and repeated spraying and polishing, our finishes offer unique intensity and depth of color.
Red Tribal Stripe and Blue Silver Sparkle Burst are the newcomer in our extensive and exclusive range of spectacular Delite Series high gloss Finishes.
For more information check out the new SONOR Drums catalog and the SONOR homepage: www.sonor.com to see the latest gear for 2011!


text:
Robert Glasper has plenty of people he can call on for guest appearances at his gigs.
The jazz pianist's acclaimed 2012 album, "Black Radio," contains cameos by Erykah Badu, Meshell Ndegeocello and Lupe Fiasco, among others, while a just-released sequel adds Snoop Dogg, Norah Jones and Jill Scott to the mix.
Yet Thursday night at the El Rey, where Glasper played the final date of a brief tour in support of "Black Radio 2," he brought to the stage an artist not featured on one of his records -- or anyone else's lately, for that matter. It was Bill Withers, the great folk-soul singer-songwriter who after crafting a string of indelible hits in the '70s more or less retired from music in 1985.
Withers had been sitting in the El Rey's balcony with Charles Lloyd and Lenny White, he told Glasper on stage, until the two jazz veterans suggested he "come down here and have you play one of my songs."
The pianist selected "Lovely Day," then led his three-piece band, called the Experiment, through a pillowy rendition of the gentle late-'70s classic.
Withers didn't sing, but his presence alone signified what Glasper, 35, seemed to be after: a ratification of his place in R&B.
There have been other indications that R&B is happy to have the musician, who's described the jazz scene he came up in as being too concerned with rules.
In 2009, the soul singer Maxwell hired Glasper to play in his touring band, and at the Grammy Awards this year "Black Radio" was named best R&B album, beating out records by more conventional nominees such as R. Kelly and Anthony Hamilton.
RELATED: The 10 Commandments of smartphone use during concerts
With its pronounced emphasis on songs (as opposed to instrumental solos) and its inclusion of vocalists with no acknowledged connection to jazz – Brandy, for instance, and Faith Evans -- "Black Radio 2" feels like Glasper's response to that warm welcome. It closes the gap between his older music and stuff by Musiq Soulchild or Dwele, the latter of whom appeared at the El Rey to sing the new album's "Worries," as well as his own 2003 single "Find a Way." (Common and Marsha Ambrosius were slated to perform as they had at other tour stops, but canceled Thursday due to a scheduling conflict.)
Yet as gratified as he seemed by a capacity crowd full of young listeners – a rarity today for jazz artists of any age -- Glasper was still channeling some of the oppositional energy for which he's known.
Quickly recapping his career for audience members familiar with only the "Black Radio" discs, he pointed out that he'd been nominated for a Grammy before he won one, in the urban/alternative category, which was retired after 2011.
"'Creative black people? We can't have that,'" Glasper said, impersonating the kind of traditionalist he delights in antagonizing.
PHOTOS: Unexpected musical collaborations
And though he and the Experiment -- bassist Derrick Hodge, drummer Mark Colenburg and Casey Benjamin on saxophone and vocoder -- offered relatively straightforward renditions of crisp, tuneful originals such as "I Stand Alone" and "Let It Ride," they also stretched out, as in a deep-groove "Baby Tonight (Black Radio 2 Theme)," which drew in bits of Daft Punk's "Get Lucky" and "No Church in the Wild" by Jay Z and Kanye West.
Near the end of the two-hour show, Glasper brought Dwele back to the stage for a cover of "Think Twice" by the late hip-hop producer J Dilla, whose idiosyncratic sense of funk lives on in the Experiment. Like the moment earlier with Withers, it was Glasper's way of honoring his forebears, be they beloved by millions or merely a devoted cult.
Charles Lloyd's tangents are pure jazz
Arcade Fire to launch North American arena tour in 2014
Review: M.I.A. shakes the faithful (and the walls) at Belasco Theater
Twitter: @mikaelwood


text:
at 2525 PhillipsHighway, Jacksonville, 32218 United States
Checker Cab of Jacksonville is the premier taxi and airport shuttle company in North Florida.
Our fleet consists of the newest airport shuttles, mini-vans sedans in Jacksonville and with the most professional, courteous and prompt taxi drivers around, we are sure to get you need to go on time and in comfort. With over 24 years' experience in the Jacksonville Taxi and Airport Shuttle business, we know customer service. Use our taxi service to get to the Jags game at Everbank Field, or our airport shuttle to get you to Jacksonville International airport for that important meeting. No matter the occasion or the destination in Jacksonville, you can count on us for experienced reliable taxi and airport shuttle services. Jacksonville is a great city, and we hope you enjoy your visit. Ask our knowledgeable taxi and airport shuttle drivers for advice on the hottest spots to visit. From museums to wildlife preserves, Jacksonville has it all, and you can count on our taxis and airport shuttles to see it all. If you need a ride, let our dispatchers take your information and we will use our state of the art, computerized system to get the closest taxi or airport shuttle to you.
2525 Phillips Highway, Jacksonville, Fl 32207 Old Volvo Dealership
238 FB users likes Checker Cab & Shuttle of Jacksonville, set it to 15 position in Likes Rating for Jacksonville, Florida in Transportation category
Happy New year everyone!


text:
Wednesday marks Richard Nixon's 100th birthday, and there will be a "gala" in commemoration at the Mayflower Renaissance Hotel in Washington, D.C. It will be chaired by Henry Kissinger, and Pat Buchanan is scheduled to speak.
All of which proves our long national nightmare is not over.
Story Continued Below
How should we look upon Nixon a century after his birth and nearly 39 years after his resignation as president? I vote for "down."
The yearlong Richard Nixon Centennial, being run by the Nixon Foundation at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library, has chosen three words on its banner to sum up Nixon: "Patriot. President. Peacemaker."
I guess "Paranoid" wouldn't fit.
Nixon was not a fool. He possessed a high level of political cunning marred only by his corruption, racism, anti-Semitism and attempts to subvert our democratic institutions.
To some, including those who have contributed big bucks to finance a year's worth of celebratory events, including a May trip to China to "retrace Richard Nixon's steps" that "changed the world," that may seem a little harsh.
But no events are planned to examine Watergate. Why not? Are those who gather to praise Nixon so secretly ashamed that they dare not speak its name?
The Nixon Foundation and the National Archives are planning a year of what are being called "Legacy Forums" across the country at which former Nixon officials will discuss Nixon's "statesmanship, his quest for a just society, the foundation of the modern presidency and his goal for a better America."
There is no mention of discussing any of the articles of impeachment adopted by the House Judiciary Committee on July 27, 1974, that state Nixon "prevented, obstructed, and impeded the administration of justice" in America.
There is no mention of his making "false or misleading statements" to law enforcement officers or withholding evidence, or counseling witnesses to make false statements or misusing and interfering with the FBI, CIA and Secret Service.
Surely there is time for just one Legacy Forum devoted to the committee's conclusion that "Richard M. Nixon has acted in a manner contrary to his trust as President and subversive of constitutional government, to the great prejudice of the cause of law and justice, and to the manifest injury of the people of the United States."
And why not feature some of the conversations Nixon secretly recorded? They show a fuller picture of the man. In one set of tapes, released in 2010, Nixon says to Charles Colson, his special counsel, on Feb. 13, 1973: "I've just recognized that, you know, all people have certain traits.


text:
Here are today's top news headlines from Fool.com. Check back throughout the day as this list is updated, and follow us on Twitter at TMFBreaking.
GlaxoSmithKline Forms Indian Joint Venture
GM Hires VW China Exec to Turn Opel Around
DST Posts Results, Raises Dividend by 50%
ServiceNow Nearly Doubles Revenue in Q4 and 2012
Chevron Declares $0.90 Dividend
Whirlpool Profit Falls, but Better Results Expected in 2013
Audience Shares Surge on Results Announcement
Neenah Paper Buys Southworth Brands
EA Q3 Revenue Drops, Loss Narrows
General Dynamics Wins LAX Security Contract
NetSuite Reports Record Revenue for Q4, 2012
Raytheon Wins $33.3 Million Standard Missile Contract
Northrop Delivers New Missile Defense System Ahead of Schedule
Morgan Stanley Boosts CEO's Pay
Nissan to Add 500 Quick-Charging Stations
Amazon Green Lights its First Children's Pilots for Production
Atlantic Power to Sell Three Power Projects
8thBridge Helps eBay's GSI Monetize Social
Scientific Games to Buy WMS for $1.5 Billion
Waste Management Buys Recycler Greenstar
Barclays CEO Says It Would Be Wrong for Him to Get 2012 Bonus
SAIC Wins up to $667 Million in Navy Contract
Vanda Drug Fails in Depression Study
Clydesdale Star of Super Bowl Ad Is Newborn Foal
Oil Up on U.S. Jobs Report; Gas Jumps Most in 2 Years
EU Accuses Drugmakers of Violating Antitrust Laws
Euro Crisis Not Over, Germany Warns
GOP Senators Vow to Block Consumer Office Nominee
U.S. Rig Count Increases by 11 This Week
Apple Claims Top U.S. Smartphone Spot for First Time
Google to Set Up $82 Million Fund for French Publishers
Sunday's Winner: Wings, Beer, and Pizza
U.S. Consumers' Outlook Improved in Late January
Manufacturing Index Jumps to 53.1% for January
Dollar Mixed After U.S. Jobs Report
Unemployment Rate Essentially Flat at 7.9% for January
Amazon Prime Locks In Exclusive "Downton Abbey" Streaming Deal
Baidu-Owned Qunar Revamps Luxury Hotel Search
Rolls-Royce Awarded $83.7 Million in V-22 Work
AGL Buys NiSource's Warranty Business for $120 Million
Build-a-Bear Needs to Find-a-CEO


text:
Breaking News Emails
New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie denied knowing about a scheme orchestrated by his administration to bully a local political rival, calling the reported actions of a top aide "unacceptable." He vowed to hold members of his administration accountable.
Christie said he was previously unaware of apparent actions taken by his deputy chief of staff to orchestrate the controversial closure of local access lanes to the congested George Washington Bridge in Fort Lee, N.J., in the midst of a re-election campaign. The action prompted massive traffic gridlock in the city on its first day of school.
"What I've seen today for the first time is unacceptable," Christie said in a statement. "I am outraged and deeply saddened to learn that not only was I misled by a member of my staff, but this completely inappropriate and unsanctioned conduct was made without my knowledge."
Christie Denies Misconduct in Bridge Closure DebacleJan. 8, 201403:36
The explosive emails by Bridget Anne Kelly to Port Authority aide David Wildstein were made public by news organizations on Wednesday, and contradict previous assurances by Christie that his administration was not involved in the lane closures, and that they were not politically-motivated.
"One thing is clear: this type of behavior is unacceptable and I will not tolerate it because the people of New Jersey deserve better," Christie added. "This behavior is not representative of me or my Administration in any way, and people will be held responsible for their actions."
Democrats have charged the closures were an attempt at political retribution for Mayor Mark Sokolich, a Democrat who declined to endorse Christie's re-election effort last year and whose city sits in the shadow of the bridge.
But the emails threaten to undercut the governor's strong denial that politics played any role in the closure.
"Time for some traffic problems in Fort Lee," Christie Deputy Chief of Staff Bridget Anne Kelly wrote to Christie Port Authority aide David Wildstein on Aug. 13, weeks before the lane closures that snarled traffic on the first day of school in New Jersey last fall.
Wildstein replied, "Got it."
The exchange has erupted into a political firestorm for Christie, a top contender for the GOP presidential nomination in 2016, because it cuts at key elements of his appeal: his ability to work with Democrats, and his brash style of politics.
In one of the more revealing exchanges, an unidentified person sent this text message about delayed school buses to Wildstein on Sept. 10, the second day of the lane closures:
"Is it wrong that I am smiling?"
Wildstein: "No."
Person: "I feel badly about the kids. I guess."
Wildstein: "They are the children of Buono voters."
Buono is the Democrat whom Christie defeated in last year's gubernatorial race.
Christie had previously denied involvement with the lane closures, and "absolutely, unequivocally" denied that the closures were politically motivated after accepting the resignation of a top port authority official in December. He also maintained that members of his administration had assured him that they were not involved with the lane closures.
In response to the revelations, Buono, Christie's former challenger in last year's gubernatorial investigation, called for a federal investigation.
"Everyone who had knowledge of the closing should be terminated immediately and the Department of Justice should conduct a thorough investigation to determine whether other towns in New Jersey suffered because the Governor wanted to get revenge," Buono said in a statement Wednesday afternoon.
Ahead of his reelection last fall, Christie was seeking endorsements from North Jersey Democrats to promote his ability to forge bipartisanship. Christie and his team did attract several endorsements from North Jersey Democrats, but there were some holdouts, including the Mayor of Fort Lee, just across the Hudson River from Manhattan.
One day last September, two bridge access lanes to the George Washington Bridge from Fort Lee were cut off – a bridge that is the busiest in the world, according to the Port Authority.
New Jersey Port Authority officials said it was for a traffic study. But the mayor of Fort Lee charged that it was political retribution for not endorsing Christie, something thought to be a far-flung charge. That is until a hearing looking into the matter in December seemed to give some credence to that theory.
A New York Port Authority official testified that he was unaware of any such study. Two Christie appointees wound up resigning.
Now these emails, released to state investigators by subpoena, reveal the greater depth to which Christie aides sought payback against Fort Lee Mayor Mark Sokolich, derided by one Christie aide in the released emails as a "little Serbian" and threatening that "it will be a tough November" for him.
NBC New York and other news outlets report that Wildstein supplied the exchanges in response to a subpoena by state lawmakers investigating the lane closures. Wildstein, the former port authority's director of interstate capital projects, resigned in December shortly before Bill Baroni, the deputy executive director of the New York-New Jersey Port Authority, also resigned.


text:
Performing Arts Center Discounts
The Dominican University Performing Arts Center (DUPAC) offers discounted tickets for selected events to alumnae/i. Watch for offers in our monthly e-newsletter.
Show your Dominican pride with official university apparel, mugs, license plate holders, books by Dominican authors and more from then Stepan Bookstore. Present your alumnae/i card for 10 percent off select merchandise.
Restrictions apply. Call (708) 524-6893.
Rebecca Crown Library
Alumnae/i are invited to use the Rebecca Crown Library. You may check out books by presenting your Alumnae/i Association card. Remote access to the university's electronic resources is not allowed due to licensing issues. The library is open daily from 8 a.m. to midnight.
Student Center Fitness Facility
Present your Alumnae/i Association card to use the university's fitness center, gymnasium, track and racquetball court. Locker room access is limited to the general locker rooms. Lockers are available on a daily basis; please bring your own lock. Appropriate attire, including athletic training shoes, must be worn at all times. Visit dustars.com for a schedule of facility hours. Since a home game, practice or other activity may prevent the use of a facility, it is always best to call (708) 524-6552 before arriving.
Audit Classes
Depending on space availability and at the discretion of the dean of the academic area of interest, undergraduate alumnae/i may audit most undergraduate courses free of charge (except for class fees and books). Auditors may only register on the first day of class or during the add/drop period. No auditor may hold a place in the class if it is needed for a credit student. Auditing is not permitted in studio courses in art, music or theatre; physical education courses; independent/directed study; service learning; or other courses designated by the university.
Alumnae/i holding a Dominican University master's degree can contact the degree-granting school regarding course audit policy. Fees and restrictions may apply. For more information, please contact the school of interest.
A limited number of alumnae/i weddings are permitted each year in Rosary Chapel and the Priory Chapel. Some restrictions apply. For information on guidelines and availability, call (708) 488-5197 or email email@example.com.
Consider your alma mater for your wedding photos when making your wedding plans. The cloister walk, the quad and other beautiful and familiar campus locations make exquisite backdrops for your photos. Both main and Priory campuses are available for a nominal fee. For details, contact Dolores Carrizosa in Scheduling and Events Services at (708) 488-5197 or at email@example.com.
Facility Rentals
Alumnae/i may reserve most rooms in the university for private gatherings, excluding weddings and receptions. Fees apply; for more information, please contact Scheduling and Event Services at (708) 488-5195 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
Legacy Scholarships
Children and grandchildren of alumnae/i who enroll as full-time undergraduates may qualify for annual scholarships. For more information, contact the Office of Undergraduate Admission by phone at (708) 524-6800 or email at email@example.com.


text:
The Oakland Raiders are so determined to finally sell out the Oakland-Alameda Coliseum for this Sunday's big game against the Chiefs that they're even offering two tickets for the price of one.
In an online promotion, the Raiders are offering a "two for the price of one" deal effective only for this Sunday's home game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
The deal appears to be working. "Indications are tickets for the Chiefs game are going fast with the help of a 2-for-1 promotion sponsored by Compass Media Networks," notes the Oakland Tribune.
It is the most meaningful home game the Raiders have played in years. At 4-4 and on a two-game win streak, the Raiders could be right in the playoff hunt and within a game of first place in the AFC West should they beat K.C.
Don't underestimate the psychological importance of it. The Raiders have not played in a full Oakland Coliseum in more than a year.
"It's just exciting to know come Sunday we're going to have our partner in this thing, and that's the community and the fans there with us," coach Tom Cable told the Tribune.
Raider Nation should know by 1 p.m. PDT Friday whether the game will be blacked-out locally, as the team has requested 24-hour extension from the normal Thursday deadline.
Joe Kukura is a freelance writer who's glad to see that another NFL team got even less use out of Randy Moss than did the Raiders.