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Minutes of the September, 2006, ACFI Annual Board Meeting
MINUTES of the 2006 ACFI ANNUAL MEETING The meeting was called to order at 10:03 AM. Present were Steven Kamp, Albert Lemke, Myron Lieberman (assisted by Rachel Lieberman), Spencer Lower, Jennifer Shacter, and Will Wharton. Robert Tanner arrived shortly thereafter. Robby Adamson and Kiki Huerta were contacted by phone briefly during the meeting. Mark Ginsburg was in an adjoining room playing in a FIDE tournament. He did not get a chance to attend. Also present were Dean Cullen and Luke Karrys. The Treasurer's Report was previously e-mailed by Treasurer Jennifer Shacter. Jennifer reviewed the fact that the checkbook balance is currently $5,013.50. The bank shows the balance as $5,024.50 due to a bank over credit. There was also an anonymous $750 donation for the promotion of Arizona chess. Special thanks to the donor. It will be verified that the donor knows that ACFI is currently not a 501c3 organization before accepting the donation. MOTION 06-01 Will Wharton: Moved to accept the Treasurer's report. PASSED 6-0. The Board discussed the Bylaw wording that had raised questions about the procedure for filling vacancies. There was little agreement on the basic meanings of the existing wording. Will Wharton read Section 7 of the bylaws regarding succession. He stated that he was looking for interpretation, not necessarily change. At issue is the fact that a Board member resigned who had received 110 votes. The next highest vote getter (Cindy Hawkinson) received 33 votes but declined the position when it was offered. The question is as follows: Should the Board go down the list in order of votes received to fill the vacancy or should the President appoint a new Board member if the next highest vote getter is not available? The issue was resolved for this instance as Robert Tanner was both the next highest vote getter (with 30 votes) and the President's nominee. Dean Cullen was next with 27 votes. The Bylaws should, however, be clarified for the future. Opinions were expressed on both sides of the issue. Robert Tanner arrived at 10:12 AM during the discussion.. He accepted the position vacated by Mark Davis and was welcomed to the Board at this time. MOTION 06 - 02 Myron Lieberman (seconded by Robert Tanner): Moved to name a Bylaws Committee to review the entire Bylaw section on vacancies and make recommendations to the Board via e-mail or physical meeting prior to the 2007 Annual Meeting. PASSED 4 – 1 – 2 (Lower opposed; Lemke, Wharton abstained). Steven Kamp agreed to Chair the committee if Will Wharton and Spencer Lower will serve on the committee. Myron Lieberman also expressed an interest in being on the committee, which has not yet been named, The Board has reorganized and vacancies have been filled. The new structure is as follows. All terms end in 2007, when there will be a new election. President - Will Wharton (Officially replaces Michael Reading who was recalled) Vice President - Robert Tanner (Replaces Steven Kamp who has accepted the position of Region III Representative) Secretary - Myron Lieberman (No Change) Treasurer - Jennifer Shacter (No Change) Membership Officer - Albert Lemke (No Change) Immediate Past President - Robby Adamson (Replaces Will Wharton, who accepted the Presidency for the balance of this term) Region I Representative (Scholastic) - Lynn Schucker (No Change) Region I Representative - Dean Cullen (Replaces Robert Tanner, who accepted the Vice Presidency. Region II Representative (Scholastic) - Enrique "Kiki" Huerta (Replaces Robby Adamson, who became immediate Past President). Region II Representative - Mark Ginsburg (No Change) Region III Representative - Steven Kamp (Replaces Gary Moore, who resigned earlier) Region III Representative - Spencer Lower (No Change) The motions that were made to create this final structure are two e-mail motions prior to the meeting that named Robert Tanner Region I Representative and recalled Michael Reading for cause along with the following motions at the meeting. There was extensive discussion. MOTION 06-03 Steven Kamp (seconded by Albert Lemke): Moved that Will Wharton complete this term as President. It was amended by Myron Lieberman to add that Robby Adamson shall serve as Immediate Past President for the remainder of this term. PASSED 7-0. MOTION 06-04 Will Wharton (seconded by Myron Lieberman): Moved to nominate Enrique "Kiki" Huerta for the Region II Representative position vacated by Robby Adamson. PASSED 7-0. Steven Kamp suggested that Spencer Lower be named Vice President during the discussion. Other suggestions were also made during the discussion. MOTION 06-05 Myron Lieberman (seconded by Will Wharton): Moved that Steven Kamp be named Region III Representative and Robert Tanner be nominated for the Vice Presidential vacancy that is created. PASSED 6-0-1 with Robert Tanner abstaining. MOTION 06-06 Will Wharton: Moved that Dean Cullen be nominated for the Region I Representative vacancy that the above change created. PASSED 7-0. Dean Cullen was present and took his seat on the Board. Welcome to the new Board members. If anyone on the Board prefers a different e-mail address to the address on this list, please let Myron Lieberman know. Robert Tanner left the meeting at 10:55 AM as it was his daughter's birthday and they had family plans. Communication was discussed. Jennifer Shacter presented what she considered to be problems. Existing policy was apparently not being followed in those cases. Jennifer noted that Karen Pennock, Kiki Huerta, and her son John had seen instances in which Board members had referred to each other by last name and the complete Board had not been copied on some emails that concerned Board business. Will Wharton stated that Board discussions on Board issues need to be copied to the full Board. MOTION 06-07 Myron Lieberman (seconded by Steven Kamp): Moved that ACFI reaffirm two policies related to communications. 1. Any discussion of ACFI issues to be considered by the Board should be e-mailed to all Board members. 2. ACFI strongly encourages anyone who has any input on any item being discussed to make their comments known to the Board. PASSED 7-0. Please note that Robert Tanner had already left the meeting and Dean Cullen joined the Board, leaving the number of votes at 7. Please also note that the intent of this motion is not to prevent informal discussion over dinner but rather to discourage partial board caucuses hidden from other Board members. The next portion of the agenda was concerned with upcoming events. Steven Kamp noted that he could provide a site and location for the Webb State Championship on Dec 2, 2006 or January 6, 2007. Will Wharton objected to the January 6 date because it is not in this year. Will accepted as an action item to contact Robby Adamson, Chair of the State Championship Committee, regarding the status and structure of the Webb and let Steven Kamp know. It was noted that the financial backing of the Webb Memorial is $500 each from SACA, ACFI, and American Chess Events, for a total of $1500. Treasurer Jennifer Shacter and Steven Kamp requested more information regarding the State Grades proposal. Such information as date, site, chief TD etc. are not there. It was noted that GPCA had no representative at the meeting to directly answer questions about the proposal. Will Wharton reaffirmed the January 6 date and stated that the proposal should be approved if it meets requirements. The question of advertising and promotional materials at state events was discussed, as well as well as naming suitable TDs. It was brought up that the GPCA has indicated that it will not allow advertising from any organization that is not 501 c 3 due to IRS regulations. Myron Lieberman pointed out that we need to update the authorized list of TDs for ACFI sponsored events for USCF as well. Please be sure that you let him know of any TDs that you authorize to run your ACFI events. Jennifer Shacter indicated a precise signed contract should always be in place. She moved that there be a formalized contract for any ACFI awarded championship. Al Lemke suggested that a checklist be put in place that would follow ACFI rules and guidelines. The question of team rooms was also discussed. Will Wharton accepted an action item to talk to Robby Adamson about a simple generic contract. The motion was tabled and not voted at this time. Will Wharton also accepted an action item to let GPCA know what was needed and report back to the Board. He will put the revised proposal up for a vote as soon as possible. It was noted that any special requirements of the site (i.e., no food in carpeted areas) should be included in the proposal. Kiki Huerta answered questions about the SACA proposal for the 2007 state Scholastics on speakerphone. He was not on the line for the vote. The event will be held in mid March (March 16, 17, and 18). Steven Kamp indicated that late April would be a better time. Dean Cullen said that the earlier the event, the earlier scholastic participation drops off. Kiki said that late April dates were not available at any venue. The question of allowing advertising and promotional materials at state events was again discussed. Will Wharton said that it is a common courtesy to allow flyers from camps and tournaments. MOTION 06-08 Spencer Lower (seconded by Myron Lieberman): Moved to accept the SACA proposal. PASSED 5-2 with Steven Kamp and Dean Cullen opposed. Ric Fischer, the ACFI web host, was supposed to attend the meeting, but at the last minute could not attend. Please note: It was later explained that he was ill and the site is currently down due to damage from a recent storm. Luke Karrys, who would do the posting for Steven Kamp attended to hear Ric's presentation and find out more about the site. Myron Lieberman provided a history of the ACFI website and provided Luke Karrys with Ric's contact information. The goal for the ACFI website is to provide a website where our people can do the posting. Ric has provided and configured Drupal content management software and has offered to host the site and provide support. The cost would be $60 per year. Eventually we should be able to post newsworthy events, maneuver the chess calendar, accommodate blogs and discussions, and possibly play over games with animated moves, as is currently done on the USCF website. Please note that links to the crosstables of USCF rated Arizona State Championship events since 1992 are on the site. Home school issues were discussed next. It was noted that a committee was formed but the chairman has resigned. This circumstance means that currently the old systems are in place because the motion that was passed by email poll after the special meeting in February is not in effect. Will Wharton noted that the current system gives a home school student without a team more options than a public school student without a team. Will Wharton read parts of the USCF rule. Home school students may represent their school if criteria are met. They can form their own team within a local public school region. A proposal introduced by Gary Moore was discussed. Steven Kamp recommended that the Board vote on Gary's proposal. Instead the Board voted on whether to endorse it because it is not yet complete. Myron Lieberman noted that the USCF Scholastic Council often changes their regulations, which are routinely accepted by the USCF Executive Board. If we use USCF guidelines someone will need to monitor the USCF site for any changes. MOTION 06-09 Steven Kamp: Moved that the Board endorses Gary Moore's proposal for home schooling in principle. The motion FAILED 1-5-1 with Steven Kamp in favor and Myron Lieberman abstaining. The proposal was as follows: ---------------- Home Schooling issue for ACFI - For 8/27/06 Board of Governors Meeting Rationale After looking at numerous state requirements for home school team participation and the national scholastic chess tournament regulations, particularly all of 13.3 and 13.4 (which considers virtual school students), I've concluded that AZ has a unique situation which requires a unique solution. Since the issue was brought up about CEVNOR and Maricopa County, I'll keep my immediate discussion to Maricopa County although, in closing, I'll suggest possible solutions for the North and for Tucson. In addition, the national guidelines, 13.2, which limits participation to home school students residing "within the boundaries of the local public school" seem, for AZ, far too restrictive. Maricopa County is separated into 5 districts. (See http://www.maricopa.gov/county_glance/maps.asp?link=districtMap However, 5 seem too many, so I took the liberty of resectioning the districts into 3, keeping the basic integrity of each. Solution 1.I would propose that home schooled students be allowed to form teams within Maricopa County. Based on their city of residence, the student would fall within one of three competitive districts: 2.District 1: Queen Creek, Chandler, Guadalupe, Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, and Scottsdale. 3.District 2: Phoenix. 4.District 3: Sentinel, Gila Bend, Buckeye, Goodyear, Glendale, Peoria, Wickenburg, Aguila, Surprise, Cave Creek, and Carefree. 1.If a student, does not live in one of these cities, the closest one to them would define their district of participation (I was not interested in naming every town in Maricopa County). 2.Also, one home school program, conceivably, could have a home school site in each of the 3 districts, having 3 unique teams compete in state tournaments. (e.g., CEVNOR1, CEVNOR2) 3.Also, there may be more than one home school team located within the district boundaries. (spinning off of 184.108.40.206 in the national regulations, e.g., CEVNOR1, BASIC1). Other Counties I leave it to our governors in the south and north to determine whether the rest of the state would need to be divided. The Tucson members may want to divide Tucson into 2 districts: South Tucson with Nogales and Sierra Vista; North Tucson with Yuma, Safford, Casa Grande. What would be the separating criteria? I think that would be a decision they could make since they know the area best. The north could be divided into 3 areas: Flagstaff, Williams, Page, Indian reservations and north; Pinetop, Showlow, Lakeside, Winslow, Holbrook, Payson; and Prescott, Cottonwood, Camp Verde, Kingman, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, Parker. These are just ideas to think about re the rest of the state since the immediate concern was Maricopa County. Closing I am not attached to this particular solution, rather see it as a springboard to refine, revise as the board members deem necessary. My goal was to create a solution that would work for the numerous home schooled students and players who wish to participate in chess competition in the states or grade championships. -------------------- At this time the Board confirmed that ACFI will follow USCF guidelines. MOTION 06-10 Spencer Lower (seconded by Will Wharton): Moved that the ACFI Board confirms that with regard to Home School teams and scholastics we are following USCF guidelines. PASSED 6-1-0 with Steven Kamp opposed. Discussion on qualifiers was then in order. The sense of the Board was that every qualifier should have to be approved every year and that the minimum number of participants to automatically qualify rule (64) should no longer be in effect. It was stated that the same rules and format apply to all organizers. MOTION 06-11 Steven Kamp (seconded by Al Lemke): Moved that there be no more grandfathering of qualifiers. Every organization that wants to put in a qualifier should submit the request by November 1. PASSED 7-0 Will Wharton stated that he will inform organizers of this change. Spencer Lower and Steven Kamp will inform northern organizers. The action plan would be for all organizers to submit their bids by November 1 to Secretary Myron Lieberman. All submitted bids must include date, site, and contact person. Myron will distribute the bid to the Board. A poll vote will take place by November 15. Please note: Automatic approval of qualifiers has been abandoned. MOTION 06-12 Albert Lemke (seconded by Steven Kamp): Moved that the ACFI Board will determine the status of qualifiers submitted by Nov 1 no later than Nov 15. After this date qualifiers will be considered on a case by case basis. PASSED 7-0 Other Qualifier concerns were discussed including the difficulty in getting hotel rooms. It was determined that the weekend before a state championship is an eligible weekend for a Qualifier. MOTION 06-13 Will Wharton (seconded by Dean Cullen, Myron Lieberman, and Steven Kamp): Moved that eligible dates for holding qualifiers would include the Saturday before the state championship. PASSED 5-0-2 with Steven Kamp and Jennifer Shacter abstaining. Format and rules for state qualifiers were discussed. Jennifer Shacter pointed out that SACA holds two qualifiers, one USCF rated and the other non and that the non USCF rated qualifier is the SACA Championship. She also stated that SACA encourages membership in USCF. Will Wharton accepted an action item to add a sentence to the regulations that Regional Qualifiers are part of the State Championship System. In addition, rules and guidelines need to be added. At this time several issues including changes to the state championship were reviewed. Will Wharton noted that the number of rounds in the high school section was changed to six and that the Denker and Polgar representatives are chosen from the high school section. Myron Lieberman pointed out that Amanda Mateer represented Arizona very well in the Polgar tournament. Her late round game with the eventual winner is the only game from the Polgar covered in "Chess Life Online". Vaishnav Aradhyula also represented Arizona well in the Denker. Both finished near the top. Myron Lieberman accepted an action item to congratulate both on the ACFI website (when it is available). The junior high school section is seven rounds. It was noted that most teams in the K – 5 section were from Tucson schools and that the K – 6 section was made up of fewer schools. In the discussion that ensued Steven Kamp suggested a survey of coaches to obtain feedback. Jennifer Shacter recommended that the changes be given another year. Opinions were expressed on these issues but no changes were made. The next item to be discussed was 501(c)3 status. The filing fee was discussed as well as the fact that the ACFI bylaws were written in anticipation of 501(c) 3 status. Myron Lieberman pointed out that if we actively solicit funds 501(c)3 status is essential. Donors want to see the IRS letter that confirms the 501(c)3 status (not just the application). Jennifer Shacter noted that 501(c)3 status is needed to bulk mail a state publication at best rates. Steven Kamp offered to front $10,000 for ACFI to achieve 501(c)3 status if someone could obtain a donation that would pay him back. Jennifer Shacter stated that all the paperwork is in place in order to file. Dean Cullen suggested forming a committee to follow up on this. Will Wharton stated that all Board members should look for opportunities. Please note. Dean Cullen is currently preparing an IRS form 1023 (the application for 501(c)3 status. Discussion on promotion of chess at state tournaments resumed. Jennifer Shacter proposed as a motion that all promotional materials displayed at ACFI events be approved by ACFI. This was withdrawn when it was made clear that it is already ACFI policy to allow promotion at ACFI events. Will Wharton suggested that the subject be tabled for now. He accepted an action item to bring it up for email discussion. The next items to be discussed were the Denker and Polgar Championships. Jennifer Shacter pointed out that the Denker representative is reimbursed for expenses up to $500 based on receipts for actual expenses, and that the Polgar representative should also receive some reimbursement. Spencer Lower pointed out that the Polgar Championship is exclusive to women. Jennifer Shacter suggested that any Polgar reimbursement be retroactive to this year. After discussion, two motions were then proposed MOTION 06-14 Myron Lieberman (seconded by Will Wharton): Moved that ACFI authorize reimbursement of expenses for Arizona's representative to the Polgar tournament on request, not to exceed $300. PASSED 7-0. MOTION 06-15 Spencer Lower (seconded by Jennifer Shacter): Moved that Amanda Mateer is reimbursed $300.00 for the 2006 Polgar tournament and we congratulate her for her performance. PASSED 7-0. A motion was made for adjournment. Spencer Lower objected to adjournment to propose the following motion: "The ACFI formally says "Shame on You" to the individuals and organizations that have broken our rules." There was no second or discussion and meeting adjourned at 2:14 PM. Note: GM Alex Yermolinsky won the 2006 American Chess Events August Invitational with a score of 3.5-1.5. Daniel Rensch was 2nd with 3-2. More information is available on request. APPENDIX 1 – MOTIONS VOTED AFTER FEBRARY MEETING Also of interest were the motions discussed at the February meeting. The February meeting was only a discussion meeting as a quorum was not present, however seven motions arose which were voted in an e-mail poll. For the benefit of the new Board members, the results of the poll on all seven motions is shown below. ---------- Hello all, The results of the poll on seven motions that arose from the discussion meeting on February 4 at ASU follow. Regards, Myron ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Replies were received from Robby Adamson, Mark Davis, Mark Ginsburg, Steven Kamp, Albert Lemke, Myron Lieberman, Spencer Lower, Gary Moore, Jennifer Shacter, and Will Wharton. Replies were not received from Michael Reading or Lynn Schucker. 1. ACFI should develop its own rule for Home Schooled students. PASSED 10-0-0. Note: The Board should develop and publish its own Home School rule, hopefully in time for the 2006 events. Any exceptions to the regulations for this year should be considered by the committee set up in motions 3 and 4 if the Board does not pass its own rule in time. 2.Change the Junior High section at the Arizona Scholastic Championship for this year and future years to include grades K-9. PASSED 9-1-0 (Spencer Lower Opposed) 3.A Qualifications Committee be formed for the purpose of determining whether exceptions are granted in in regard to qualification for the AZ State Scholastic Championship. All situations or requests that could result in exceptions to ACFI regulations shall be referred to the Qualifications Committee. The Qualifications Committee has no expiration date. PASSED 10-0-0 4.The initial members of the Qualifications Committee shall be Robby Adamson and Will Wharton. PASSED 8-0-2 (Adamson and Wharton abstain) 5.Move to extend the deadline for receiving proposals for the 2007 AZ State Grade Championships to March 31, 2006. PASSED 10-0-0. Note: This needs to be publicized and perhaps proposals should be solicited if necessary. 6.The selection of Tournament Directors for all AZ State Championship events must be pre-approved by the Board prior to the TD(s) being invited. PASSED 9-0-0-1 with Spencer Lower not voting on this motion. 7.Until such time as the President is once again willing and able to continue in that role, the day to day functions of the President will temporarily be filled by another Board member. PASSED 10-0-0. Note: This requires that the Board take action (by e-mail poll) to determine which Board member will temporarily serve as President. It is my interpretation that as soon as the President is willing and able to perform all functions he can resume office without further action. If he informs the Board of his willingness to resume office before a temporary President is named, the Board may consider his resuming office, although the Board may clarify what is expected of him and obtain his agreement prior to a final decision.


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Fourth of July was a memorable day for the former Chad Ochocinco, who changed his name back to Chad Johnson on the same day he wed the former Evelyn Lozada in an evening ceremony on Miami Beach.
In the next couple of months we'll see whether there are more memorable days ahead for the newest Dolphin or if, as some have claimed, last year's forgettable season in New England demonstrated that he's no longer got it.
With a receiver corps that otherwise goes only three deep in terms of any semblance of NFL experience _ Brian Hartline, Davone Bess and journeyman Legedu Naanee _ it would be a big surprise if Ochocinco fails to prove himself worthy of making the 53-man roster. With that in mind, here's a question: Which other receiver is likely to be most challenged by his addition? Continue reading "Chad Johnson's arrival could leave Clyde Gates as odd man out"


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In the 17th century, Sophie of Hannover devoted herself passionately to garden design. The fruit of her talents can be seen today in the Royal Gardens at Herrenhausen, which she based on the House of Orange's magnificent baroque gardens.
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Career Definition of an Ophthalmologist
Ophthalmologists are a specific kind of doctor who treat illnesses, diseases and conditions that affect the eye. While ophthalmologists can be thought of generically as 'eye doctors' and perform some of the same duties as optometrists, they differ in that ophthalmologists perform eye surgery and treat eye diseases. Ophthalmologists also examine eyes and prescribe contact lenses and glasses.
|Completion of medical school plus 3-8 years of internship and residency; state licensure also required
|Job Skills
|Strong medical knowledge, strong physics and math skills, administrative and management skills
|Average Salary (2017)*
|$211,390 (for physicians and surgeons not listed separately, including ophthalmologists)
|Job Outlook (2016-2026)*
|13% increase in jobs for all physicians and surgeons
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Required Education
Ophthalmologists are a type of physician, and, thus, they are required to earn a medical degree. The process is a lengthy one, with a prospective ophthalmologist having to earn a 4-year bachelor's degree, complete four years of medical school and undergo 3-8 years of internships and residencies. Common undergraduate programs include pre-med, biology and chemistry; coursework that will help prepare you for a career as an ophthalmologist include biochemistry, anatomy, physiology, organic chemistry, physics and medical ethics.
Licensing Requirements
Like any other kind of physician, ophthalmologists also need to pass a licensing exam in order to practice. State licensing requirements vary.
Skill Requirements
Ophthalmologists must have strong physics and math skills as well as a robust medical knowledge. Because many ophthalmologists also own their own practices, good management and administrative skills are also helpful.
Employment and Economic Outlook
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment outlook for physicians and surgeons in general is good, with a predicted 13% increase in job openings from 2016-2026. The average annual salary for all physicians and surgeons not listed separately, including ophthalmologists, was $211,390 in May 2017, per BLS statistics.
Alternate Career Options
Other options to consider in this career field include:
An optometrist provides patients with eye-related health care. Optometrists give vision and eye tests; diagnose eye-related illnesses, problems and diseases; and prescribe treatments, such as medications or corrective lenses. While optometrists don't perform eye surgery, they may help with before- and after-surgery care. Aspiring optometrists need to have at least three years of undergraduate schooling before applying to a 4-year Doctor of Optometry degree program, although many earn a full 4-year bachelor's degree first. A year-long post-graduate residency can be completed for optometrists who want to specialize, such as in geriatric or pediatric care. State licensing is required; optometrists may also earn board certification in a specialty. The BLS predicts that optometry jobs will increase 18% from 2016-2026; optometrists earned an average yearly pay of $119,100 in 2017.
A podiatrist is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating illnesses, diseases and conditions affecting the lower limbs, from the lower legs to the ankles to feet. Podiatrists examine patients, order and review tests, make referrals when podiatry symptoms are signals of other health issues and provide treatment that ranges from prescribing orthotics to performing surgery. While professional podiatry programs require at least three years of undergraduate college education, most applicants earn a bachelor's degree first. A Doctor of Podiatric Medicine program takes four years; graduates then complete a 3-year residency and apply for state licensing. Licensing requirements vary by state but typically require at least a passing score on the American Podiatric Medical Licensing Exam. Podiatrists can also earn board certification. The BLS predicts that jobs for podiatrists will increase by 10% from 2016-2026; this occupation paid an average salary of $148,470 in 2017.


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Energy Savers program extension good news for farmers – Queensland Farmers' Federation
The Queensland Farmers' Federation (QFF) has welcomed the State Government's commitment of $10 million to extend the Energy Savers Plus program.
The expanded Energy Savers Plus program will include an additional 200 energy audits for agricultural customers and offer a 50% co-contribution (capped at $20,000) towards the cost of implementing changes recommended through the audits.
QFF President Stuart Armitage said that the Energy Savers Plus program has been and continues to be an important resource for Queensland farmers to identify, learn and implement energy efficiency practices and changes to their businesses.
"By expanding the partnership between QFF and the State Government, farmers throughout the state will continue to benefit from the opportunity to identify energy savings as the sector grapples with the impact of electricity price increases.
"QFF is looking forward to working through the details of the expanded program with the government. The addition of an implementation bonus for farm businesses taking up the audit recommendations is a positive step, and we must continue to evolve other elements of the program too.
"An industry-led program will give greater consideration of the entire water-energy-productivity nexus that farm businesses face and we look forward to seeing the details.
"In a public debate that is so focused on supply-side energy matters, it is pleasing to see the government recognise the importance of energy efficiency and demand management in reducing energy costs.
"It is also important to remember that the Energy Savers Plus program is an essential, but not the only, piece of the puzzle when trying to solve the 'energy crisis' gripping rural and regional Queensland.
"Energy Savers is a useful tool to help farmers proactively dampen the impact of the massive price rises we have seen, but it does not completely solve the broader issues of electricity affordability – we have to keep working at the other areas too", Mr Armitage said.
To date 60% of the 130 farms participating in the Energy Savers program have or plan to implement part of the $3 million of annual energy cost savings identified in the energy efficiency audits across different industries. This includes 50 farms implementing energy efficiency projects and another 32 that are planning to in the future.
Source: Energy Savers program extension good news for farmers – Queensland Farmers' Federation


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When Jarrod Emick starred as Joe Hardy, the straight and strapping all American ballplayer in Damn Yankees, he hit a home run, winning the 1994 Tony, Drama Desk and Theater World Awards. Now he's playing for the other team, so to speak, as Peter Allen's gay lover, Greg Connell, opposite Hugh Jackman, in The Boy From Oz, opening Oct. 16 at the Imperial. Jackman, who gives a Tony-worthy tour de force as the Aussie entertainer, raves, "Jarrod's the best. He's fantastic as Greg!"
Though best known for his musicals (The Rocky Horror Show and Miss Saigon), Emick is also a fan of Tennessee Williams and William Inge and has appeared regionally in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and Picnic. On TV, he starred in the acclaimed 1996 TNT film "Andersonville," directed by the late John Frankenheimer.
Born in Fort Eustis, Va., the 6-foot actor grew up in Oral, S.D., where his father was a sheep farmer. The amiable Emick, 34, has a girlfriend, Mia Price ("She's gorgeous and on tour with Thoroughly Modern Millie), and a six-year-old Rottweiler named Woo. He also loves to play guitar and is working on a country album.
Question: So what's it like working with Hugh Jackman?
Jarrod Emick: Hugh is a gem. What a terrific talent. I'm a huge "X-Men" fan. He's already given me a video game, "Wolverine's Revenge." His son's too young to play it. Gorgeous child. And his wife [Deborra-Lee] is the sweetest thing in the world. Hugh's a great guy. I'd pay to watch him read the phone book.
Q: Most of our readers know about the legendary Peter Allen, so what can you tell us about your character, Greg Connell?
Emick: Greg was from Texas. He was a model, and he met Peter in the early seventies. Greg would design Peter's sets and lights, and he was the one who got Peter started on wearing Hawaiian shirts. He wanted Peter to have a look. Peter was surrounded by yes men, but Greg wasn't one of them. I think he was the love of Peter's life, but Peter had a lot of love to give [to others]. I kind of equate him to Bill Clinton. He couldn't help himself, but I don't think Greg would've had it any other way. Q: In the show, Peter and Greg kiss. Ever kissed a guy onstage?
Emick: No. Hugh is the first. But we're very comfortable with each other as friends. We really feel good about where the kiss is at. It's poignant.
Q: There seems to be a double standard about same-sex kisses. When two women kiss, like Madonna and Britney Spears at the MTV Awards, it's sexy.
Emick: But when two men kiss, people feel uncomfortable. Yeah, I have no idea what that's about. In theatre, we're used to guys being with guys.
Q: Let's talk about Peter's music. What made it so special?
Emick: He wrote from the heart. His songs are so rich and full. I really like "All the Lives of Me." And "I Honestly Love You," which I get to sing, is so beautiful. I'm not a fan of taking a bunch of music and turning it into a show. Some really crappy musicals have been made that way. But in The Boy From Oz, Martin Sherman, who wrote Bent, has come up with a fantastic book, and the music fits so well. Peter was writing about his own life. He shouldn't have done Legs Diamond.
Q: Peter and Greg had AIDS. How is that treated in the show?
Emick: Greg tells Peter about it. Peter was very much in denial, not only about his own infection but Greg's. And Greg was not having any of that. He didn't want any B.S. When he passed away, it was a horrible time. Once Peter came to terms he was HIV, he thought he could lick it. He never told his mother.
Q: Have you heard from Greg's mother?
Emick: I'm told she really wants to see the show. And she sounds like a doll. I'm not doing an impression of Greg, but I look forward to meeting her.
Q: Finally, there's been a lot of talk about gays on Broadway and TV. Have you seen "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy"? And would you welcome any advice?
Emick: I love that show! They have great taste, so I'd welcome anything they could do for me, especially fashion-wise. My girlfriend says when she first met me, I had this drawer full of white T-shirts and a drawer of black T-shirts and a drawer of jeans. But I clean up all right. I'd love to meet those guys. They look like a ton of fun.
For more info, visit www.theboyfromoz.com and www4.osk.3web.ne.jp/~babuly/.
To quote the swinging jingle he sings on the TV commercial for Foxwoods Casino, "Life is good, life is sweet" for John Pizzarelli. The gifted, good looking guitarist-singer from Paterson, N.J., has released over 25 albums and received raves for his jazz trio (with Martin Pizzarelli and Ray Kennedy). He literally makes beautiful music with his wife, Broadway star Jessica Molaskey, when they write songs, and he's got two remarkably musical kids, Johnny, 12, and Madeleine, 5. And from Oct. 10-19, Pizzarelli will bring his pizzazz to Radio City Music Hall, starring in Sinatra: His Voice. His World. His Way with a 40-piece orchestra and the Rockettes. It'll be directed by Tony winner Des McAnuff (Big River) and choreographed by Casey Nicholow.
Pizzarelli, who's so sunny that you could get a tan by standing next to him, says, "Our show will tell Sinatra's story, and Radio City is the perfect place for it. You'll hear Sinatra sing again, and he'll be seen on these giant screens that fly in and out. I'm the narrator, but I'll also sing and play in the band. I do "Come Fly With Me" with Sinatra, and I even perform with the Rockettes. It's gonna be one wild multimedia ride."
Thanks to high-tech wizardry, the 6-foot Broadway pro (Dream) also will appear with Sinatra at a bar during "One for My Baby." However, it won't be the first time this multi-MAC Award winner has shared the stage with Ol' Blue Eyes. In 1993, he opened for Sinatra in Germany and America. After one concert, Pizzarelli recalls, "We shook hands, and he joked, 'Eat something, you look bad.' We'd also watch Sinatra in the wings, waiting to go on. He'd be snapping his fingers, tapping his toes. Then he'd walk onstage and say, 'Weren't those guys great?' It was fun touring with him."
Asked what made Sinatra stand out, Pizzarelli says, "He had a sense of theatre about songs. It was the way he set up tunes, especially the saloon songs. I saw him in Brendan Byrne Arena in New Jersey in 1987 and he really got to me. It was 17,000 people, all that music and just him standing by himself. That night was unbelievable!"
Meantime, the 43-year-old jazz star swings back into action with his sensational trio Oct. 29-Nov. 1 at Birdland. Plus, he's helping his wife work on a solo cabaret act. By the way, Molaskey has her own TV commercial, and the proud hubby boasts, "Jessie's wonderful in it. She sings 'Do You Know the Way to Use eBay?' and she's lifted up by John Selya [from Movin' Out]. My wife says, '[Selya's] fingerprints are on my rear.'" Within earshot, Molaskey wisecracks, "And I hope they never go away!"
For more info, visit www.johnpizzarelli.com and www.radiocity.com.
At 16, Welly Yang's first professional acting job was Ito, the Japanese houseboy in Mame, in which Miss Dennis crows, "Life is a banquet!" Nowadays, his life truly is a banquet: The Wedding Banquet. As the artistic director of Second Generation, which produces Asian American shows, Yang has turned Ang Lee's 1993 movie into a new musical. The Village Theatre is presenting its U.S. premiere now through Oct. 26 in Issaquah, Wash., and Oct. 31-Nov. 16 in Everett, Wash.
What's more, this Broadway actor and impresario stars in the tuneful adaptation. He plays Wai Tung, a gay Taiwanese-American who marries a Chinese girl (Dina Lynne Morishita) to please his parents, even though he really loves his Caucasian boyfriend (Tyley Ross). Yang's thrilling tenor especially soars on "This Is True," Wai Tung's compelling coming-out song ("I love who I love, I live how I live").
The Wedding Banquet features book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey and music by Woody Pak, his collaborators on the 1999 Asian-American rock musical Making Tracks. Now directed by John Tillinger, this project began about five years ago. Yang, who was born in Brooklyn to Taiwanese parents, says, "I loved Ang Lee's movie. It's got conflict, humor and sex — everything we need in a great musical." But the 5-foot-8 producer realized that "we needed to open up the film and make the story sing. Now we have a gospel tune and a tai chi number, and the ending comes full circle. But we've stayed true to the spirit of the movie: A family is where love is." Wai Tung isn't the first gay character that Yang has played. He was a wonderful Whizzer if ever there was in the National Asian American Theatre Company's 1998 revival of Falsettoland. Yang, who's dating Morishita, his show's lovely leading lady, says he believes in his musical's message: "Whether you're gay or straight, love is love."
In August, The Wedding Banquet made its world premiere in Lee's homeland, Taiwan. Yang says, "You could hear the audience gasp when me and Tyley kissed." It then played Singapore. To avoid an R rating from local censors, the show ended with a baby christening, instead of the gay wedding it currently has, and deleted a romantic kiss between the male leads. "Even so, we were a hit," he says. "We sold 25,000 tickets in Singapore and another 10,000 in Taiwan." From there, it went to Washington, and now some producers are scouting it in hopes of bringing it to New York.
If his plate weren't full enough, Yang leaves The Wedding Banquet on Oct. 16 (Michael K. Lee takes over the role) and returns to the Big Apple to do The Karaoke Show. Based on Shakespeare's Comedy of Errors, it's from the creators of The Donkey Show. It'll run Saturdays at the Supper Club, starting Oct. 25. Yang says, "I play Anthony, this womanizer, and I rap to Nelly. It's very funny." Plus, he'll produce Second Generation's Concert of Excellence on Dec. 1 at Lincoln Center, where 30 Broadway stars will honor Ismail Merchant, Jadin Wong and Lisa Ling.
Yang, 30, enjoys being an actor and an activist. When he was 20 and played Thuy, the villainous Viet in Miss Saigon, the understudy role of Chris, the leading Caucasian hero, opened up. He asked to audition for it, but the producers never saw him. "Everyone thought I was cuckoo. Now, wait a minute. Caucasians have played Asians for centuries. Suddenly, an Asian wants to play a white role, and I'm crazy? That's why I founded Second Generation. For so long, our stories have been told from the Western point of view. Now it's our turn to create roles that define Asian America."
For more info, visit www.2g.org.
Hugh Jackman isn't the only awesome Aussie who's just made his musical debut in New York. Now there's Simon Gleeson. With his movie-star looks and rich, powerful pipes, the 26-year-old actor stole the show at Get Here, a Sept. 20 concert of Australian talent at the York Theatre. This pure and passionate tenor was simply exciting singing Sondheim's "Marry Me a Little." In Australia, he just finished playing Sky in Mamma Mia!, but the sky's the limit for a performer with his style and star quality. With any luck, Gleeson will be back in the Big Apple soon.
There's so much to see in New York: Matt Bogart, one of Broadway's best baritones, will share the stage with cabaret cutie KT Sullivan at The Siegels' CD Picks of the Month concert on Oct. 5 at 7 PM at Dillon's, 254 W. 54th St.; (212) 307-9797. The Civil War veteran will sing "Her Face" and "Being Alive" from his swell CD, "Simple Song," but Bogart hopes to include "Field of Angels," an exciting song from Camille Claudel, the new Nan Knighton-Frank Wildhorn musical. The show's free with no cover or minimum — what a bargain!
Tom Postilio, one of the sterling young stars of Our Sinatra, will croon Ol' Blue Eyes' tunes, joined by a ten-piece orchestra, Oct. 3, 10 and 31 at the Rainbow Room at 30 Rockefeller Plaza; (212) 632-5100. Postilio says he once had a Frank encounter in 1991: "I was performing in the lounge of the Sands and Sinatra came by and said, "Kid — keep singin' good songs, not the crap they call music today!"
Gregory Moore salutes Sinatra, as well as Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole and many more in Croon, Oct. 2-Nov. 2 at the Firebird Café, 363 W. 46th St.; (212) 586-0244. The classically trained baritone will be joined by Lana Rein, the café's popular parlor pianist. . . . Britain's baby-faced Jamie Cullum, who's been dubbed "a Sinatra in sneakers" and named the BBC's "Best New Jazz Star," makes his New York debut now through Oct. 18 at the Algonquin, 59 W. 44th St.; (212) 840- 6800. . . . Steve Ross celebrates his love affair with My Manhattan Oct. 15-Jan. 3 at the Stanhope Park Hyatt, 995 Fifth Ave.; (212) 650-4737.
Finally, another terrific tradition of New York nightlife returns to Town Hall, 123 W. 43rd St.: the Cabaret Convention (Oct. 20-26), which will include a cavalcade of crooners: from Tom Andersen and Brent Barrett to Billy Stritch and Tommy Tune. Visit www.mabelmercer.org or call (212) 997-6661.
Got comments or questions? E-mail me at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Until next month, let's hear it for the "boys"!
Wayman Wong edits entertainment for the New York Daily News. He has been a movie and theater critic for the San Francisco Examiner, a writer for The Sondheim Review and a Drama-Logue Award-winning playwright.


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Update on Kairos Athletics Athletes and Programs
Kairos Athletics is proud to announce that the reach of our programs is growing. Many of our participants are having extremely positive experiences. Recently, one of our Cornerstone Success Academy athletes graduated as valedictorian of her school and will soon…
Elite Training for Chicago Youth
Kairos Athletics offers to select Chicago youth what would normally cost thousands of dollars and is therefore strictly offered in higher income areas. Review the kind of instruction that Kairos Athletics has to offer: Mr. Lee is the author and creator…
K.A. Launching New Program! In More Chicago Schools in Just Six Months!
Kairos Athletics is in multiple schools in the south side of Chicago making the youth strong and vital. Kairos Athletics is helping communities across Chicago that are suffering from a lack of funding. We are implementing the Cornerstone Success Academy…
Intelligent Warrior Philosophy; Discussing the Art of War
The most intelligent strategy used in conflict is unknown to most people. Billy discusses how to handle the threat of violence.
Positively Impact Chicago/Midwest
Community Health and Wellness
In Chicago Schools Now!
Kairos Athletics is currently in Chicago Public Schools working with the Chicago Park District. The Cornerstone Success Academy and Better, Faster, Stronger programs provide what the youth desperately need.
Athletes are guided by the wholistic Peak Performance Principle.
Superior Athletic Training
Strength and conditioning knowledge is based on decades of experience.
Peak performers are rewarded with exposure and experience in the business world.
Kairos Athletics engages the athlete totally - mind, body, soul.


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The Coalition for the Homeless has partnered with Metro Louisville Government, local providers and community leaders to create and track progress on a plan to end homelessness. In 2012, this plan was updated to include new goals outlined in "Opening Doors," the federal plan to end homelessness created by the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness. Click here to go to the 2016-2020 Blueprint to End Homelessness.
The Coalition for the Homeless establishes annual legislative priorities each year and works to effect legislative change on these issues in order to improve the lives of the poor and homeless in Louisville. Click below on issues to link to policy statements on each one.
Metro Louisville Homeless Legislative Priorities
- Expand Medicaid Uses to Include Supportive Housing Service
- Provide Full Funding for the Louisville Affordable Housing Trust Fund
- Increase the Minimum Wage to a Livable Wage
- Statewide Landlord Tenants Rights Law
- Payday Lending Cap
There are many ways you can get involved and advocate for the needs of our poor and homeless neighbors. Feel free to use the policy statements above to write, call or email your legislators about the things that are important to you.
You can follow Kentucky legislative issues through Bill Watch. To access this service, go to: http://Kentucky.gov/services/billwatch/
You can leave messages for your Kentucky State Senator and/or Representative through the Legislative Message Line at 1-800-372-7181.
You can contact your Metro Council Representative at www.louisvilleky.gov/metrocouncil.
To get The Coalition for the Homeless updates including new advocacy issues needing local support, fill out this form to join our enewsletter list.


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- The relief of widows, widowers, surviving qualifying cohabitants, surviving civil partners and surviving dependant relatives of members of the Forces Pension Society or of persons who served in the Armed Forces of the Crown (whether or not they were members of the Forces Pension Society) who are in need by virtue of financial hardship, sickness, disability or the effects of old age;
- Such other charitable purposes as the trustees may from time to time decide.
Making a donation or a bequest directly to the Society
The Forces Pension Society is an independent not-for-profit organisation. It is reliant on membership subscriptions to fund its work. It receives no grants and it does not distribute any income in dividends. It is the only independent organisation wholly dedicated to looking after the pensions interests of Armed Forces personnel.
This independence is vital in carrying out the activities of the Society whose principal aim is to act as both watchdog and guard dog protecting and enhancing the pension entitlements of serving and ex-serving Members of all ranks and their dependants in all three Services.
Whether helping to resolve the hundreds of pension queries our Pension Advice Service receives every month, striving to correct unfairness in existing pension schemes or campaigning for fairer pensions for the whole Armed Forces community, there is always pressure on the Society's resources.
We are often asked by individuals for advice on the best way to make a donation to the Society, either as a simple gift or as a bequest.
If you do wish to make a donation or leave a legacy to the Society, it is perfectly possible to do so direct to the Society, and you remain free to do so, but our preference is for gifts to be made direct to the Forces Pension Society Charitable Fund (FPSCF) a charity that supports the work of the Society. That will ensure that your gift is used expressly for the charitable objects of the Society.
Forces Pension Society Charitable Fund
The FPSCF is a charity that supports the work of the Society. But in addition its objects include benevolence for those who find themselves on hard times. Their main objectives are:
To make a donation by cheque, please click here and download a donation form which also contains details of the Gift Aid tax benefit.
If you prefer to make a donation online to the Charity by credit or debit card, please click here to go to our secure page which also includes information about Gift Aid.
If you wish to arrange a bequest, you should be aware that as a result of recent changes, as from 5th April 2012, if you leave 10% or more of your estate to charity, the rest of your estate will benefit from a 10% reduction in Inheritance Tax that would otherwise be payable.
We suggest you consult your legal advisor regarding IHT benefits or contact Steele Rose & Co, and tell them that you are a Member of the Forces Pension Society.
Whatever form of donation or bequest you decide to make, we are extremely grateful for your help.


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Kyriad Bourgoin Jallieu has 42 double, twin and triple rooms all with air conditioning and baths. Two rooms have wheelchair access. All of the rooms have hair dryers. Sit back and relax, watching Tv, or get your work done efficiently with wireless Internet access. We do so much to make you feel at home, you won't want to leave. In addition to safety, comfort, entertainment and friendliness, Kyriad Bourgoin Jallieu offers all the services you need to enjoy your stay: Fitness Center and Magazines kiosk.
Benefit from the best value for money by booking your room at the Kyriad LYON EST - Bourgoin Jallieu Hotel. Book now on our official website and find the best offers available! Also find all of our hotels by downloading the HotelForYou app (iOS, Android and Blackberry). Find all of the Kyriad Hotels in Bourgoin Jallieu.
Booking: 0207 519 50 45
Information: +33 4 74 19 09 10
Fax: +33 4 74 19 09 19
Email: email@example.com


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Campaign of the Month: May 2016
Oasis of the Blood Moon
Oasis of The Blood Moon Shortnotes
Adventure begins in the Grand Souk in Siwal
Oasis of The Blood Moon
Adventure begins in the Grand Souk in Siwal. There should be some introduction to Nuria Natal. Airship travel to Nuria Natal city and further travel to Siwal over the desert. May need a desert encounter!
Brief Stopover in Nuria Natal – Saabu Theet can meet Saleem Chicktay – End of Festival Fare – All goods available for HALF PRICE!
Bring in some sort of friendly encounter with Peter and the Puddings.
PERFORM (Some place in Siwal) Make 5 Entertainment Checks. DC 22 THREE SUCCESSES will guarantee good crowd appreciation and free rounds of drinks from SOMEONE. 4 successes will raise status of each member by ONE POINT. 5 successes will get all of the above but GAIN 2 STATUS POINTS each instead of one!!
Check total STATUS POINTS for each character as well as total HONOUR POINT AWARDS:
From Beginning of Fish and The Rose:
CHECK CASH: Arcael: 890 GP; Bartiman: 1018 GP; Goran: 2299 GP; Iron Wall: 1084 GP; Arenicus: 500 GP; Saabu Theet: 82 GP
Encounter with 3 ghouls in an alley. Woman kidnapped.
Meet with Vizier Akil Ibn Khaldun – 1.000 GP each to help find kidnappers
Ghouls – hang around Necropolis to find some that will talk – 2 Ghasts – they tell of Mage Abd-Nezka
Oasis of the Blood Moon – three days south
Assault Oasis or Sneak in. Vizier prefers sneaking but will give a unit of soldiers if party want to storm the place. Cave in the desert.
See infiltration on p7: Light in cave will reveal them, smell to be disguised by perfumes.
Get past 10 ghouls into Deep Cave of Abd-Nezka, Level 7 Darakhul Wizard
(Darakhul: paralysis, disease, spells, mage armor already cast, possibly also Bull's Strength and Spectral Hand) – Area has desecrate spell provided by the Fountain of Blood, lasting for 20 rounds and buffing Abs-Nezka. He has four ghoul rogues with him.
Kill the wizard and his rogues to scatter the will of the remaining ghouls.
Save the four prisoners.
Fountain of Blood is a minor artifact that the Vizier will pay a further 12,000 GP for.
2d6 vengeful Ghouls attack the party at night on their way back to Siwal.
END: Up half a level – Still on Level 5.
Back to Nuria Natal


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I'm at the Romantic Time Booklovers Convention in Kansas City this week. To Celebrate, I thought I'd post a bit from one of my books each day that I'm away. Looking for one of my books? You can find them all on my page at All Romance eBooks!
Today I'm featuring Contentment
Tracy Sullivan seems to have it all, a handsome, devoted husband, three beautiful children, a steady career, and the perfect suburban home; but she isn't happy.
The petty resentments that have built over fifteen years of marriage surface when Tracy tells her husband, Sean, that she is no longer interested in sex, and their marriage threatens to implode.
For the sake of their children, Tracy and Sean agree to lead separate lives under the same roof. With the help of a healthy dose of adult-rated fiction and some gentle prodding from a good friend, Tracy begins to rediscover who she is, what she wants, and the reasons she fell for Sean once upon a time.
After two years of soul-searching, Tracy is finally ready to embrace her happily ever after having learned that while happiness may be fleeting, contentment can last a lifetime.
And here's an excerpt!
June 2008
The cursor blinked, the little bastard. The flashing line taunted her, all but double-dog daring her to click the link. But there was someone on the other end. Someone who had seemingly nothing and absolutely everything to do with what may or may not be about to happen. Somewhere out there, caught in the World Wide Web, was a living, breathing person she had never met, never seen, and never heard of Tracy Sullivan.
She glared at the cursor. Shouldn't someone know they had this much of an impact on another human being? Doesn't she deserve to know what she does matters to someone? Tracy assumed the author was a woman. Only a woman would understand.
She pressed the button, and a strange sense of calm flooded her veins as the contact form appeared. After entering her email address, she typed, 'Your stories' in the subject line. Then she chickened out.
Tracy wasn't surprised. She'd been clucking like a crazed hen all day. I wonder if I'm sprouting feathers yet?
Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted the telltale pink shopping bag peeking out from under the briefcase she'd had dumped on the chair. Tracy stared at the tiny pink bag, gnawing her bottom lip and remembering the agonizing forty-five minutes she had spent surrounded by a sea of lace and satin.
She stuck out like a sore thumb in the Pepto-Bismol pink store. Her navy blue skirt and peep-toe pumps seemed like such good choices that morning. The skirt may have been navy, but it fit lean and snug. The hem fell below her knee making her feel like a sexy secretary. She'd paired the skirt with a deceptively simple, white cotton blouse that nipped in at the right spots, and finished the ensemble with the sinfully red high-heeled pumps and a slash of scarlet lipstick. The whole combination had almost given Sean whiplash as she rushed to the car to run the morning carpool shift.
The clucking began. Whatever confidence Tracy had when she dashed out the door fled the moment the whipcord thin, I'm-barely-old-enough-to-order-a-drink salesclerk starting pulling baby dolls, teddies and negligees from the racks.
Tracy gawked at the displays, trying to envision prying her body into one of the scraps of fabric without benefit of a crowbar. She caught a glimpse of herself in one of the store's many mirrors, and her heart sank. She looked exactly like what she was: an almost forty-year-old woman buying lingerie in a desperate attempt to salvage her failing marriage.
She could almost hear the overgrown teenager thinking she'd have to exert some serious effort if she thought she wanted to lure her man back into the nest. These girls probably dealt with a lot of this. Every day, women her age must rush through their door in a blind panic hoping to recapture their youth. They rifle through the inventory of flame red lingerie and wonder if they can tolerate wearing a piece string splitting their ass on the off chance the butt floss might rekindle a spark.
When this same eager, young saleswoman dared to hold a teeny-tiny bustier set in front of her own non-existent bosom, a woman browsing a rack of full-support brassieres muttered, "Nurse a coupla kids, sweetie," under her breath.
Tracy chuckled, but the clucking began in earnest. The idea of teddies, baby dolls and bustiers had to be jettisoned. The last thing she wanted was to come off looking like a wannabe pin-up girl in a froth of scratchy lace and high-heeled, marabou-trimmed slippers.
She didn't even have a pair of marabou-trimmed slippers.
Tracy snatched the bag from the chair and padded into the laundry room. She extracted her oldest, softest jeans and a long-sleeved t-shirt from the pile waiting to be sorted and put away and stepped into the tiny powder room, refusing to meet her own gaze in the mirror above the sink.
Being a chicken, she refused Sean's offer of dinner, pleading a large lunch. She pretended she didn't notice the bewildered confusion in his eyes when she brushed past him and rushed down the steps. She didn't want him to spot the stupid pink bag. A few minutes later she dashed upstairs again. As silently as a ninja, she checked on the kids, steered clear of the kitchen where he prepared lunches for the next day, and sought refuge in the basement room that was her lair.
She glanced up, tentatively scanning her reflection for one little scrap of bravado. It wasn't that she didn't want to see him. For the first time in forever, she was dying to see him. But she wasn't ready. She had to think, and lately she hadn't been able to think clearly with Sean nearby.
She needed a plan. She was nothing without a good plan, but once a plan was in place, boy watch out!
Tracy slowly unbuttoned her blouse, but by the time she stripped out of the day's work clothes she still had nothing. She reached into the pink bag and pulled out a matching bra and panty set in a demure, pale peach with cream lace. The choice bewildered her. For a moment, she wondered if she'd been in some kind of fugue-state when she made the purchase. Tracy hated the color orange and all of its derivatives. She hated fake, antique-looking lace. The last thing any woman staring down the barrel of forty needed was to put her body into something with the word 'antique' attached.
She shook the seventy-five dollars worth of polyester at the mirror. "I should make you wear this as a punishment, chicken," she muttered to her reflection.
She froze for a second, then cocked her head, giving the set another glance. The peach would warm her complexion, the teeny-bopper titty measurer said. The color would go nicely with her eyes. The lace might not be so old lady-ish on a pair of boobs which hadn't gone completely south yet. She peeked at her bosom. Not bad, only halfway down.
Tracy stripped off the serviceable bra and panties she wore. Biting off the tags, she caught sight of her body in the mirror and wished she hadn't. Once she put the pretty new bra and panties on, though, a flicker of her fickle confidence returned.
Turning from side to side, she inspected what little she could in the oval mirror above the sink. Not awful. She shook her boobs into the cups, pressing on the sides of the bra to be sure the girls were being displayed to their best advantage before slipping into her t-shirt and jeans.
She caught sight of her bare feet as she left the bathroom and smiled.
Brazen hussy red.
That's what Sean used to call the bright red polish she used on her toes. The glossy enamel gave her the boost she needed. Her poor toes had gone unpolished for too long. She wasn't the girl she used to be, but she was okay with that. Now. At least she was no longer the foolish woman who had almost thrown everything away.
This has gone on for too long.
Tracy drew on the power of the crimson polish. After all, she needed to be brazen. She desperately wanted to be the hussy she had never been. She hurried to the computer before she could chicken out again. The cursor still winked at her. She glanced at the ceiling. Pots and pans clamored as they were piled in the kitchen sink. The cursor urged her on, flashing its silent, 'Do it. Do It. You want to do it.'
She wrung her hands. The water shut off, and the lilt of the familiar tune Sean always whistled while he wiped the counters carried down the steps. He was almost done. His kitchen would be sparkling clean and ready for another day's battle.
Another day's battle. She straightened her spine. I can't wait another day.
Tracy glared at the nagging cursor and bent, ignoring the bite of the snug denim at her waist. She tabbed down to the tiny message window and paused, her fingers hovering above the keys. Biting her lip, she battled back the panic humming low and insistent in her brain and tried to think of the right words to say.
From: email@example.com
Subject: Your stories
Hi! You don't know me. Well, you kind of do, because you have responded to some of my reviews, but you don't really know me. I just wanted to tell you how much I love your stories. They have helped me more than I can ever explain. I read in your author's notes and the messages you post on the boards that you think these are just silly stories you write and post to make people happy – and they do, I am incredibly happy whenever I get an email saying you have updated. But they are so much more. I just wanted to take a minute to thank you. I know you have no idea what I am truly thanking you for, and that's okay. I needed to say thank you. So, thank you. Wish me luck.
With a click of her mouse, the message flew off into cyber-space. Tracy stared at the monitor for a moment, wondering if she should wait for a reply.
Maybe if I get one it would be a sign.
But the sign came from above. The dishwasher hummed to life, and she realized she had to do something now. No more waiting. No more watching. No more sitting at the computer escaping into another couple's world, another couple's bed. This was it. Now or never.
Tracy cringed at the words as they flitted through her head, but she knew they were the truth. She turned her back on the flashing cursor and headed for the stairs. The time had come. Tonight, Tracy Sullivan planned to seduce her husband of seventeen years, and he'd better damn well co-operate.


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Here's what people are saying about In Depth Vision.
Mark's Story
Listen to Mark describe how Vision Therapy has changed his life as he recovered from brain surgery.
I have been through vision therapy three times with my own children (with two different doctors) and witnessed the amazing improvement in two other children. Dr. Odineal is the best doctor in the Sacramento area, and coupled with Jane as a vision therapist, they are unbeatable!
Vision therapy requires exercises and doing things that are difficult, so push-back from the child is not uncommon and should not be unexpected. Sometimes Dr. O is able to use a different exercise to accomplish the same results when some task is particularly difficult. Jane is excellent when it comes to dealing with childish nonsense -- not harsh, but not too easy either.
In one of my children, the primary symptom was severe headaches, even though the usual vision exam had revealed nothing. With vision therapy, the headaches finally disappeared. With another child, who was my Godson, Dr. O said that he only needed a prism in his glasses because his eyes tended to turn in, so he fatigued quickly. It was a relief to hear that despite his difficulty with reading, vision therapy was not needed. I also have a child with a diagnosed learning disability who was treated with vision therapy.
Learning problems often occur with multiple issues at the same time which is overwhelming to parents. Given the cost of vision therapy versus other therapies which are often ongoing, my preference is to use vision therapy first and then reassess what is needed. Often kids who are having reading problems can be helped with a few months of exercises for their eyes. The improvement is life-changing and it is cost-effective too!
I have recommended In Depth Vision to many families based on the change in my children and the two others that I was priviledged to follow. The first step is just a normal eye exam done with Dr. Odineal. If she sees something, she recommends a more in-depth assessment. Sometimes, as with my Godson, nothing further is needed, except some glasses. I like Dr. Odineal so much that I drive some distance to have my whole family see her. She is an excellent doctor.
(If you would like to personally speak to this patient and parent, call our office and we can have her get in touch with you)
I was told for for years that I had visual processing problems, but no one ever told me how to fix it. Now (just in time for college) I can read quickly and I am rarely ever tired from reading. I now (after therapy) can read everything and therapy has made me a better speller. I feel like the playing field has been leveled. I now have a chance to do well next year. It also helped with other things such as my golf game (I can now see the ball much better).
I know so many of my friends without learning disabilities could greatly benefit from vision therapy. In fact, although I have yet to be tested, I don't believe I need special education anymore.
I liked the way the program was established. They give you only four exercises and a reasonable amount of time in which to do your exercises. And, I always left the office in a better mood then when I came. I am so thankful that I decided to pursue what Dr. Odineal had to offer.
We both were very happy to learn there was something we could do to help T's trouble with reading. Now it's not a huge fight to get him to read. His first report card of the year was the best he's ever had! We had a great experience with Dr. Odineal and her therapist. I will be forever grateful for what the therapy has done for us!
A.D. Vision therapy made a absolutely positive impact on my child. At week 11 she began to read! It was a little like throwing a switch, suddenly she was reading and the letter reversals were gone. She felt more equipped to go to the 3rd grade, where she knew there would be reading homework. Now with a challenge, she knows that she can work through anything if she practices. She has heard me tell the story of her daily eye therapy many times. She is a gentle soul and responds quietly, but with determination. "A" attends Live Oak Waldort school so she did not have great academic challenges resulting from her vision problems. After 6th grade she became very interested in soccer, running, biking and swimming. Did she finally feel more comfortable with this after vision therapy?
N.D. Prior to therapy he had difficulties with his classroom behavior. He often was in trouble for disrupting the class and not paying attention. Apparantly, a lot of this was caused by his inability to see well. Before, he hated to read; after therapy, he really began to enjoy reading! Now, he reads all the time. He is in college now and finds that because of the therapy he recieved, he can read much faster. He improved socially, athletically and behaviorally. It turned his life around academically. His grades improved and also his behavior in the classroom. He began to play baseball because it was easier for him to track the ball--and he got very good at it. I believe it changed his life for the better! (this patient received therapy about 12 years ago from Dr Odineal)
M.O. After completing therapy my son was able to focus better. His double vision diminished with the therapy. We tried glasses before the therapy and the glasses didn't seem to help.
In Depth Vision optometry
3262 Fortune Court
Phone: (530) 830-7007
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Or use our contact form.
Vision is the prerequisite for reading. Poor vision skills lead to poor reading skills.
Watch this TED Talk about curing vision-related learning problems:
Watch this TED Talk about how vision affects our sense of reality:


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My main motivation for doing what I do is to make great style accessible to every woman, especially those who need it most. Through the Pretty Strong program, I hope to do just that by providing effortless style for women undergoing cancer treatment.
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The wedding was absolutely spectacular. Everything we could have hoped for and more. After all, how often is it that you get to transform a 5 star resort into a freshman dorm reunion? The wedding itself has already been rehashed to no end and everyone who we would share photos with should have already got them via Facebook. (If not, let me know.) I don't know that I'm entirely comfortable posting those pics here on this space but I'll post a few. Since people have been wondering how it went, here's a recap.
Grown Up Spring Break
We left before sunrise Sunday after a blizzard paralyzed Charlotte and much of the rest of the East Coast Friday night and Saturday morning. The schedule was intentionally set so we could spend as much time with our friends and family as possible. (Don't you hate those weddings where you only see the bride and groom for 5 minutes in a welcoming line?) Jen and I arrived nearly week before the ceremony in order to try to spend as much time partying and adventuring with our friends as possible. It really worked out! It was like grown up spring break!
The week started out rainy but still found a lot to do – namely a side trip to Cozumel and Playa del Carmen!
Reality of Wedding Planning
I know I've written before that sometimes you don't get exactly what you expect in an all-inclusive resort. That is certainly true at Aventura. You get different answers on different days from different people. While the overall experience is excellent its the little perks, extras, and bonuses that you were counting on that are subject to interpretation. Your mileage may vary.
The wedding planning was entirely different because…
- Very little to worry about – all inclusive really came through.
- Gorgeous resort – we were happy we convinced 45 guests to come.
- Room: huge bed, jacuzzi in the room, bottle of v!no, full bar and stocked fridge – for everyone, not just the wedding couple!
- Affordable – we received a ton of credits due to how many nights our collective group booked. That went towards other wedding items.
- Tons of activities.
Couples played tennis, group water volleyball, water aerobics, video games, or just lounged and drank. There were side trips to Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, ceynotes, Tulum, and more. Some people even got to go ziplining in the jungle! Others made use of the work out facilities and / or the spas. Snorkeling, ping pong, and card games.
- Wedding prep – you get to sample every dessert!
- Awesome wedding coordinator!! The whole process was so easy and affordable! Highly recommend it!!
Random Entertaining Events
Every wedding has its stories, and these are only a part but they paint the picture:
Jen and I only knew what day it was by who is there. (aka – Leo & Amber are here so it must be Tuesday!)
Power failure! We lost power to the resort (and a large part of Mexico, it seems) the day before the wedding. Turns out the state had planned this outage well in advance. Good thing the generators turned on! Water purifiers made the cut on 'essential systems' but blenders did not. Only 'on the rocks' margaritas for 24 hours! Glad our wedding wasn't that day!
Jen's parents sat through the timeshare info session. We wanted no part of losing the pool time but they were able to trade in their timeshares for 4 X's the time, less costs, and other benefits. Go parents-in-laws!
Karaoke! So many disparate parts of the group sang solo and some of the girls created a kick line while a gentleman sang "New York, NY."
Rain on Friday? Not a problem! What would a return to Spring Break be without drinking card games. With free beer. In a lobby of a 5 star resort. With an audience.
Hitting the club on Friday night after the rehearsal dinner by way of party bus. Yes, we took a free intra hotel diesel bus to shuttle ourselves 1/12th of a mile. But it was great. When we ascended the stairs to the 2nd floor to find the club, we encountered a donkey. One girl screamed. Others took pictures in full bandito gear. Thus was born the legend of Senor Mustachio!
The Wedding Day
Of course we were here for a reason. Beyond the above mentioned parties, that is.
We started our wedding morning with a Spa treatment. That was good. I think I'm normally pretty calm but very early that morning I snapped awake. Returning to sleep was impossible. So was the thought of eating anything. A full spa complete with free hour massage goes a long way in soothing wedding nerves.
After that it was back to hard work of drinking, volleyball, and toying with the emotions of the staff:
Staff: "Sirs, would you like to come join us in the other pool for water aerobics?"
Ted: 'What time does that start?" (I knew the time it started and the time it was now.)
Staff: "At 1pm." (It was already 1:15pm)
Ted: "No can do. I have to be at a wedding at 1."
Staff: "Sir, that is not possible! You'll be late!!"
Ted: "Not at all. They can't possibly start without me. I'm the groom."
Staff: "Sir! You must go!!"
Ted: "You're right. I am thirsty! Who else wants to swim up to the bar?"
The ceremony started with the entire entourage at a private gazebo on the northern most part of the property. Guests were seated and nuclear family relatives walked down the aisle before Jen arrived. I stood at the altar waiting while a 7 man Mariachi band played. We had elected to have a few slight alterations to a ceremony that fit our style. The first was a family-orientation by the processional and we asked our siblings and their significant others to stand by us at the altar eschewing the normal best man / maid of honor, bridesmaids and groomsmen things.
"And the Horse You Rode in On"
A horse drawn carriage arrived dropping Jen off and her father off. He walked her to me and gave her away. The civil ceremony in lieu of a religious one fit our personalities (and my beliefs) and we stood facing our guests. I never understood why you wouldn't face your guests.
The mariachis played, we were married, and fireworks shot off in the background. How many wedding do you know that had fireworks? Exactly. The entire party left and formed a circle that we were introduced to complete with champagne toasts and, at the insistence of our mariachi friends, my impression of a Mexican hat dance. (In the video I look like a wounded chicken.)
Before we took the traditional wedding photos we tried to take photos with everyone. I can't imagine why you would invite people to a wedding and then not be in pictures with them. It's a group celebration, right? Well, put the group in the photos! And we did. Once that was over everyone went over to our post ceremony / pre-reception cocktail hour (yeah, we like to party!) while Jen and I took a few more photos just the two of us alone by a Mexican sunset by the cerulean seas of the Caribbean.
Golf carts took us from the cocktail party to the reception. Did I say wedding reception? It was actually a roast. Of me. Luckily the DJs surprised me with a gift – a CD burned with everyone's best tidings, well-wishes, and orchestrated Ted-slams. I'll treasure it forever.
The End
The next day we had a group breakfast but people had already started going home and the realization that we would soon return to a life filled not with volleyball, poolside drinks, and snorkeling. The Snowpocalyspe in the US made this something to take seriously. We filled our day with lounging, thanking those who had come and preparing to watch the Superbowl sans commercials on a 2 story projection screen in the lobby. Note: all inclusive drinks and 5 star food is the way all football affairs should be organized.
We killed the night by taking our remaining friends, the leftovers of the wedding cake, and complementary bottles of champagne and wine to our favorite lobby and reminisced. We would travel to Rio the next day for a honeymoon. But that's a story for another time. This was one fantastic wedding. Thanks to all whom made it possible!


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5011 59 Street, Beaumont
Courtesy Of Troy Paquette Of RIGHT Real Estate.
DRASTICALLY REDUCED FOR A QUICK SALE ! This home has it all, fully developed with over 3300 sqft of living space. This 2-storey home featuring a front verandah welcoming you into the spacious entrance, 9 foot ceilings, den/formal dining room w/large windows, large living room w/cozy gas fireplace, new hunter douglas blinds, open breakfast nook that spills on to an amazing south facing rear deck, entertaining kitchen w/large eat-up island, new counter tops, new stainless steel appliances, ample cabinets & large walk-through pantry. Finishing off the main level is the 2pc powder room. The open staircase leads up to the oversized bonus room w/ a second gas fireplace, spacious master suite w /a walk-in closet & 4pce ensuite w/ separate shower & jet bath. The 2 & 3 bedrooms are generous in size, 4pce main bath & the upper floor laundry area. The fully developed basement features 2 large bedrooms, family rec room, office/hobby room, 4pc bathroom, large mechanical room w/ storage area & a newer hotwater tank!
Residential Detached Single Family
Closet Organizers, Detectors Smoke, Deck, Porch, Hot Water Natural Gas, Laundry-Same Floor, No Smoking Home
Dishwasher-Built-In, Dryer, Refrigerator, Stove-Electric, Washer
Crossed Fenced, Golf Nearby, Public Transportation, Shopping Nearby, Airport Nearby, Flat Site, Landscaped, Schools
Listing information last updated on December 11th, 2019 at 8:31pm MST.


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What does receiver sensitivity really have to do with wireless system performance? Along with transmit power and antenna gains, it is a key indicator not only of the range of the signal but also the data rate and the bit error rate (BER). Here's the real truth about receiver sensitivity.
A major goal in designing a wireless product or system is maximizing the range between transmitter and receiver. All short-range wireless technologies used for IoT and other applications operate on frequencies in the VHF, UHF, and microwave spectrum. Signals in this range travel in a straight line from transmitter to receiver. This is what we call line of sight (LOS). During the flight from antenna to antenna, the signal undergoes significant attenuation. This is called free space path loss (FSPL). The range is strictly limited by the physics of the system. The Friis formula shows the factors involved:
Pr = PtGtGrλ2/16π2d2
Distance (d), or the range between the Tx and Rx, is given in meters. Wavelength (λ) is also in meters. Wavelength (λ) = 300/fMHz . Other factors are transmitted power (Pt), received power (Pr), transmitter antenna gain (Gt), and receiver antenna gain (Gr).The power is expressed in watts and the antenna gains are power ratios. If you assume a dipole or its equivalent, the power ratio is 1.64. Both antennas are assumed to have the same polarization.
The obvious way of looking at this is that as the distance increases, the received power is less. The attenuation is proportional to the square of the distance (d) and the frequency of operation (f). An important take-away is that the range for a given transmit power and antenna gains is less at the higher frequencies. A 915 MHz signal will naturally travel farther than a 2.4 GHz signal for the same power and antenna gains.
To see this more clearly, here is a way to calculate the FSPL directly:
FSPL (dB) = 32.45 + 20log(f) + 20log(d)
The frequency (f) is in MHz and distance (d) is in kilometers.
For instance, what is the FSPL for a 5.8 GHz signal at 50 meters?
FSPL(dB) = 32.45 + 20log(5800) + 20log(0.05) = 32.45 + 75.3 – 26 = 81.75 dB
Keep in mind that this is the loss of the best possible link where there is a clear path between transmitter and receiver antennas. It assumes no obstacles like trees, walls, or terrain features. In the real world there will be obstacles that will add an extra 10 to 20 dB or more of loss. Therefore you should estimate an additional loss factor and add it in, plus a safety factor of 10 or more dB.
To keep all our gains, loses, and power levels in the same units of measurement, let's express transmitter power (Pt) in decibels or dBm (milliwatt reference). Assume a transmit power of 100 mW.
dBm = 10log (Pt/1mW) = 10log(100) = 20 dBm
We need to factor in the antenna gains. A dipole or its equivalent has some gain—specifically, a 1.64 power ratio or 2.15 dB. Assume that both transmitter and receiver use a dipole. The real transmit power then is:
Pt = 20 + 2.15 = 22.15 dBm
Now we can factor in the FSPL to get the actual received power:
Pr = Pt + Gt + Gr – FSPL = 20 + 2.15 + 2.15 – 81.75 = −57.45 dBm
In terms of power this is about 1.8 µW. This is a very small signal. The big question—and the point to this blog—is whether the receiver can handle it.
An often-overlooked factor in all this is receiver sensitivity (R). This is the smallest signal the receiver can reliably demodulate the signal. R is usually stated in –dBm and is determined by receiver gain. Typical ranges for R are approximately –70 to –150 dBm. For this example, assume a receiver sensitivity of –90 dBm. The received power as calculated above is –57.45 dBm. That is a greater power level than –90 dBm, so the receiver has more than enough power to recover the signal.
Now, just for fun, you can compute the maximum path loss and range for this combination given the transmit power, receiver sensitivity, and antenna gains.
FSPL (max) = Pt + Gt + Gr – R = 20 + 2.15 + 2.15 – (–90) = 114.3 dB
Next, rearrange the FSPL formula and calculate the maximum possible range (d) for this example. In this case, the maximum range is 2.13 km.
Remember, this is the maximum theoretical range with clear LOS. If the receiver gain and sensitivity are insufficient, the signal may not be recoverable. Data rate may decline in some systems as it may adjust to cope with the environment. Or the BER will increase.
In all cases, try to clearly define the maximum potential range needs for your application. Then factor in some additional attenuation for obstacles, fading, or reflected signals if the application environment calls for it. With this approach, you will know what you can expect in designing your system and determining what it can do.
Finally, note that the effect of noise in the system is also a factor. But that's another story. More later.


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About the game
Space Siege Warrior it's a new free online action/shooter flash game. If you like robots and cyborgs and you are looking online for some new adventure shooting games.Then here on brightest games we give you this new challenge called Space Siege Warrior game.You are a powerful robot and your mission is to conquer as many galaxies as you can to collect crystals and treasures.You are equipped with the latest guns,armor and all the high tech.Use mouse to aim and shoot,press D and A to move back and forward.Press Space to activate your shield.It is very important to use wisely your shield because it will save your life.Destroy all robots and spaceships collect diamonds to sell and get money.With money you can buy better weapons,armor,sword,bullets and many more cool stuff that will help you in your next missions.Prove your shooting and strategy skills and conquer all the galaxies to become the ruler of them all. Good luck and have fun with this new Space Siege Warrior games!