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Just Cause 2 Developer On Why It Won't Utilize DRM: 'It Treats Our Fans Like Criminals'
from the a-refreshing-blast-of-honesty-and-common-sense dept
Well, we've certainly heard plenty about DRM and shoehorned-in multiplayer recently, what with EA's recent Hindenburgish SimCity "launch." As was detailed all over the web, the only people hurt by these "features" were paying customers, many of whom spent $50-60 for a server Roulette wheel that limited users to one spin every half hour.
Many developers are concerned with piracy and have made the mistake of crippling their software with DRM that punishes paying users disproportionately while affecting pirates hardly at all. At best, these efforts result in a Pyrrhic tie, damaging the developers' relationships with their customers while having a negligible effect on infringement.
Fortunately, some developers would rather not sacrifice their customers' happiness in order to briefly irritate a few pirates. Avalanche Studios, the developer behind Just Cause 2, is one of these forward-thinking developers. In an interview with Gaming Bolt, founder Cristofer Sundberg had this to say about DRM.
"DRM solutions which limit the game experience should not exist. That's my honest opinion...However you may feel about his statement on piracy, there's no arguing with the fact that he's unwilling to put anti-piracy efforts ahead of providing Avalanche's customers with a great experience. He also parts ways with EA (among others) on another aspect of piracy prevention, one that's almost always presented as a "feature," rather than just another limitation on the end user.
They make us look greedy, which we are not. It treats our fans like criminals, which they are not. With that said, I think that we deserve getting paid for years of hard work and I think piracy is hurting our ability to make great games."
He is also against adding multiplayer component to a game to prevent the game from being traded.He uses his own game as an example. Just Cause 2 is rarely sighted in used game stores simply because the players who purchased it years ago are still playing it. There's no (native) multiplayer in Just Cause 2 (excluding an awesome PC-only mod), but that has done nothing to diminish its popularity). As Sundberg sees it, throwing multiplayer options in for their own sake (or as a form of DRM/resale prevention) weakens the original product.
"Nobody wins in the end; the developer can't make the great experience that they want to, the publisher doesn't get its money back and the consumer is disappointed. I am convinced that this mentality contributes to the downfall of the industry."So, either Sundberg is crazy or he's actually paying attention to the gaming community. At times, it almost seems as though certain companies think their customers are the last people they should listen to -- a very strange position for entities in the business of selling things. Hopefully, more will realize the damage they're doing far outweighs the nominal gains and DRM will become an exception rather than the rule for AAA developers.
Filed Under: criminals, drm, just cause 2, video games
Companies: avalanche 2


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My Altar
Purple Clairvoyance Ankh Huge 30x40mm Amulet Talisman Antique Copper Pendant with Chain Necklace
Pendant Size is 2" and Includes 24" chain. There is a clear glass cabochon dome over the artwork. Handmade by Artist Shoushan. It includes Gift Box.
Talismans promote "green environmentally friendly magic". Keeping a talisman is a great way to help manifest of your desires.

subset: commoncrawl


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Balanced Body® is proud and excited to bring its all-new Allegro® 2 Reformer to IHRSA. We designed the Allegro 2 in collaboration with many of our health and fitness customers, listening to what worked in their Reformer programming and what didn't. After thousands of hours of design and testing, the result is the most intuitive, adjustable, easy-to-use Reformer on the market. Your members will clamor for it, your instructors will demand it and your bottom line will flat-out love it. We will have daily Allegro 2 demos, so come by and check out the Reformer that's changing the face of Pilates programming for commercial fitness.
You can also test-drive our revolutionary CoreAlign®. The CoreAlign improves posture, balance and functional movement in a fun, fast-paced, challenging workout. Your members will feel the difference after one session. Safe and simple to use, it's perfect for fitness centers looking for a truly unique way to differentiate their program offerings. Try it, and see for yourself.
As always, you can also experience other world-class Pilates and mind-body equipment in our booth, including the EXO® Chair, Pilates Arc® and Orbit®. The Orbit is a super simple and super fun way to add strength and flexibility in a dynamic environment to your classes or personal training sessions. Join us Thursday morning at IHRSA for an Orbit class (sold out last year) and see why it's so popular.
All show equipment is available for sale at a great discount, so if you see something you like, you can take it right off the show floor after IHRSA ends. Come check it all out at booth 2347.
Booth No. 2347
This company is an exhibitor at IHRSA and an advertiser in the February 2012 issue of Club Industry.


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June 19, 2010
Eating Tour in Cabramatta
Here's what we ate and saw in Cabramatta.
When you're in a Vietnamese area, you can't go past pho. This was my first ever pho with rare beef, beef briskets, beef balls & beef tendons. So very tasty and warming.
Some street snacks: Nem Chua is Vietnamese cured pork with pork skin, chili, garlic and mint.
Such an interesting texture and flavour.
Small savoury dish with egg, prawn and spring onions - Very oily, but so soft and delicious.
Fresh durian
Avocado and durian smoothies pured thick and mixed with ice and condensed milk. I quite liked both of them, but probably couldn't have a whole lot of either.
Banana blossoms
The local ladies selling their home made dishes
More fresh produce
Loads of fresh fish and other seafood, and so cheap it's unbelievable!
Colourful cakes
Vietnamese cakes and desserts, 3 for $5!
And a selection of desserts I came home with... A bit sweet for my taste, but so colourful and fascinating!
Pandan waffle, look at that colour and yum, I could have these every day!
Small custard cakes were fresh and still warm.
How popular is this place?
The locals know where the food is good...
and this crispy chicken was absolutely delicious! The best I've ever had. No doubt about it.
And there is a wide selection of drinks available, like these ones: the egg yolk milk & soda was my favourite and the drink with beans and pearl barley was definitely interesting!
A popular Vietname & Chinese Fast Food Shop
Condiments at Tan Hung Vuong
Banh Hoi Nem Nuong: BBQ Pork sausage on vermicelli noodles topped with crunchy peanuts. Those sausages were so tasty!
Banh Cuon: Steamed noodle sheets with pork mince & wood ear mushrooms
Umm, guys are you sure there is a restaurant there?
Oh well what do you know, there is one!
Duck leg with egg noodles at U.E. Chinese Restaurant
Beef with egg noodles - The beef was so tender and tasty
What an amazing, unforgettable day. Thank you so much Betty and Amy for showing us your suburb and thank you to all others for coming along!
20 comments:
Nice one Maria! I am astounded that you posted this so quickly. It was a fantastic day and I am surprised how fast it flew by. Hope to do this again at another suburb!ReplyDelete
ooh ive always wanted to try the egg yolk milk and soda! is it sweet?ReplyDelete
Amy: Yea I can't wait for the next one!!ReplyDelete
Suze: It is sweet, but not overly so :)
- Anonymous19 June 2010 at 19:51
Hi Maria!ReplyDelete
Thank you for this post. I've been meaning to go to Cabramatta and eat lots of good food for a while now, so this is gonna help! If you intend to go back one day, let me know :-)
Do you already know Thang's blog? www.noodlies.com
He knows his stuff too about good eating spots in Cabramatta!
Lovely post. Great memories from our day!ReplyDelete
And you were telling me that you weren't a good photographer. Those photos are ace!
You are one fast lady! I doubt I'll even start on my photo's today. What a great day we had, so much good food and street snacks and how funny was that sign at the toilets?ReplyDelete
- Anonymous20 June 2010 at 09:47
Great tour & really enjoyed the food. Nice to meet everyone. Mr KReplyDelete
- Anonymous20 June 2010 at 15:09
Great round up!! Always love reading posts about cabramatta!ReplyDelete
Fab photos Maria! I'm really glad I came out with you guys, it was good to be surrounded by fresh eyes.ReplyDelete
That toilet sign - was that at Tan Viet? (The crispy chicken place) lol! =DReplyDelete
I could eat pandan waffles everyday too! Love them and love Cabra! Great to hear you that you had a great experience :)ReplyDelete
i should really pay a visit to cabramatta !ReplyDelete
the cured meat thing looks interesting, do you eat it as is ?
I love cabramatta!!ReplyDelete
Monica: Yea you can eat the meat straight like that!ReplyDelete
Angie: Yes, Tan Viet :D
I love Cabra - it's fantastic isn't it? The produce is so fresh, the turnover is fantastic and the prices are dirt cheap! What's not to love?ReplyDelete
- Anonymous21 June 2010 at 18:34
Where is that restaurant down the alley?ReplyDelete
Betty's Cabramatta tours are fantastic! I really enjoyed it when she showed us the area :)ReplyDelete
Nem Chua! I love this so much! Tan viet always has a line but so worth waiting for :DReplyDelete
Hi! I just got your comment on my blog and I had to come visit - and BOY and I glad I did! My bf's Finnish so I have an instant affinity with you and hey we're from Sydney too!! (though stuck in London for another few months hehehe)... I LOVED this post on Cabra and you like durian? OMG we can totally be friends! I tried the Jansson's Temptation at a Scandi Smorgasbord last Christmas and thought it was a delicious potato bake hehe... anyway, catcha around on the web :)ReplyDelete
Betty is such a great tour guide especially when she shows people around her home town :) LOVE the food there alot!!!ReplyDelete


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For Whom to Vote
Parliamentary elections were being held in and no agreement had been reached between the religious community and the irreligious socialist "Bundists" to continue their tradition of presenting a united Jewish slate.
The Bundists, who were extremely bitter about the refusal of the rabbis to accept their terms, held a pre-election meeting. Their leader concluded a fiery campaign speech by declaring: "Cursed be the hand that casts a ballot for the Rabbis' Party."
When word of this came to the rabbis, a meeting was held at which some participants suggested that a proclamation be issued that a curse be upon anyone voting for the Bundist list. Rabbi Yosef Kahaneman, the founder of the Ponovez Yeshiva in Bnei Brak, was then the rav of the Ponovez community and the youngest member of the rabbinical group. "Let them curse," he told his colleagues, "and we shall bless." His suggestion was accepted and the meeting ended with a proclamation that anyone voting for the rabbinical list would be blessed.
After this meeting a woman approached Rabbi Kahaneman and told him she really wanted to vote for his list but her husband insisted that she vote for the Bundist list. Aware of the mentality of his people, Rav Kahaneman told the woman that in accordance with the advice of our Talmudic Sages she should vote as he had instructed her. When she later related to her husband the ruling she received from the rabbi, he excitedly exclaimed, "If that is what the rabbi told you we are going to vote for the Rabbis' List!"


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Miracle-Ear Hearing Center - Arlington Heights
location on Google Maps.
in new tab.
on social media.
Miracle-Ear is the name Americans have trusted for hearing aids since 1948. Miracle-Ear offers the latest technologies, superior customer service and the most attractive hearing solutions available. For over 65 years, Miracle-Ear hearing aids have helped people enjoy fuller lives. Plus, Miracle-Ear offers free, detailed hearing assessments and aftercare programs you can't find anywhere else.
Business Hours
Monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed


text:
Regal Cruises and Travel is a full-service travel agency specializing in cruising and Land programs to some of the worlds most exotic locations.
Established in June 1983, it is owned and operated by Christine McFarlane. We are fully licensed by TICO, IATA and CLIA and are also a proud member of the Ensemble Travel Group.
Our knowledgeable staff members have experience in destinations all over the world. We offer group departures and escorted vacations several times throughout the year.
We are also able to price match almost any quote you have been given!
Contact us today and put our expertise and experience to work for you.
For your convenience we own and operate in Stoney Creek.


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Today kicks off the first day of Catholic Schools Week 2012, (January 29-February 5). The theme is: Catholic Schools – Faith. Academics. Service. In order to Catholic Schools Week, I thought I would write a post about my 12 years of Catholic education.
For grades one through eight I attended Duquesne Catholic School (no longer open). This school was made up three different schools in three different buildings: Holy Name (grades 1-3), St. Joseph's (grades 4-6), and Holy Trinity (grades 7 and 8).
After Junior High "graduation" I then attended Serra Catholic High School.
My father also attended Holy Trinity (he called it "Hunky Tech"–that was because it was the school of Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church in Duquesne, now in West Mifflin, PA–which was identified as the "Slovak" church). My mother, however, was Greek Catholic, so when she was young she had to attend the Duquesne public schools. Dad did not have the chance to go to a Catholic High School and attended Duquesne High School. My aunt, Sr. M. Camilla Alzo, who belonged to the Blessed Sacrament of the Incarnate Word order, taught at the school for a few years even though her home convent was in Victoria, Texas. I shared her story in a previous post.
My parents did not want to send me to the public schools and felt strongly that I receive a Catholic education, and they made the sacrifices necessary to pay for me to have this opportunity. And so off I went to first grade at Holy Name (in 2005 the school was demolished). I was very sad when I saw pictures of this event (see below). I met my first best friend there in that school, and my first favorite teacher, Sister "K". I always loved going to school at Holy Name.
So, what did I learn from my 12 years in Catholic school? Actually, quite a lot. First and foremost I learned respect. My parents taught me how to respect myself, and how to show respect for others–especially my elders–even in times when I might not agree with them. The nuns and teachers in school reinforced this lesson. On my first day of school, my mother told me, "You are to listen the nuns. Pretend they are me. If you misbehave, I WILL know about it, and they have my permission to punish you. Then, you will be in trouble when you get home too." I was SO afraid to disobey those nuns! The majority of my classmates were too from what I can recall. Sure, there were those who were a bit ornery or always seemed to be in trouble. People may frown upon this "fear factor" today, but one thing is for certain: I never remember having to worry that someone might bring a gun in and shoot everyone, or have a bomb, etc.
I also learned discipline and how to apply it both to my work, and my personal life. I believe my quality of education was much higher in the Catholic schools. Our classes were smaller and the teachers, for the most part, truly cared about their students, and even more than 30 years later, they will remember you. I found some of my old report cards–very interesting to read. I received one "bad" report–in 1977-78–in Math (this is not surprising because to this day "I don't do Math! My English grades were always better!). The teacher wrote that I was "getting careless in my work…and not concentrating." Since a parent had to sign the report card and could make comments, my mother, who was not happy, did sign it but requested an interview with the teacher. My mother wrote: "I will not tolerate this kind of work from Lisa. What can I do to help her? This is the first bad report since she has been in school. I'm very disappointed in her and her Dad is too."
Talk about tough love! You can bet that I did better after that report! I did improve my grades for the next grading period. Mom was a stickler when it came to school. Very strict. My Dad not so much; he cared, but he let my Mom handle it. It was not fun at the time, but I appreciate my mother pushing me to do my best. It has provided me with the strong work ethic I still have today. I went on to be an honor student in high school, even winning three awards for being an "Outstanding Student" in Biology, English, and Psychology! Out of the three, the Psychology award surprised me the most, but the priest who taught the subject said he gave the award solely on merit and that the papers I was writing for his course were college level papers and how my mother should send me to Harvard. Of course, my mother, the ever frugal Slovak, asked "And, how do you suggest we pay for Harvard?" He suggested scholarships, etc. I didn't apply to Harvard, but I did graduate Magna Cum Laude from West Virginia Wesleyan College where I went on to receive several senior awards, including the outstanding student in the English department. I furthered my education by earning a Masters in Nonfiction Writing from the University of Pittsburgh.
This past November I was truly honored that one of my former Duquesne Catholic School teachers (Mrs. "Y") attended MY lecture at the Pitt Slovak festival. We had been corresponding for a few years by e-mail after she spotted a couple of my books in the local bookstore. It was such a thrill to see her again and to have her tell me how proud she is of me for the work I am doing with genealogy/family history. A few months ago, I received an e-mail from another teacher from my Duquesne Catholic days congratuling me on my work. I also keep in touch with several of my former high school teachers.
Of course, religious education was also a major part of the Catholic school experience. The nuns were always quizzing us on the "Lord's Prayer," the "Apostle's Creed," the "Ten Commandments," and how to correctly pray the rosary. I plan to write a future post about one of these nuns, so stay tuned.
By writing this post I am in no means saying that Catholic schools are perfect. Not all the teachers were caring or good at their jobs (about a year or so ago I read a story in the Pittsburgh papers about one of my former teachers who was arrested and in quite a bit of trouble). However, I do feel that my Catholic school education helped to shape the person I am today. For this I am grateful.
So, as Catholic Schools Week begins, I'd like to say a big "Thank You" to my parents for making the choice to provide me with a Catholic education, and also to all of those teachers who cared enough to make sure that I succeeded.


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text: Eventbrite is an online service that people everywhere use to create, share, and join any event imaginable. Whether it's a photography class with a local artist, or a sold-out concert in a city stadium, Eventbrite makes it happen. We enable event creation, promotion and ticket sales. We help people discover events that match their passions. And we let everyone share the events they're creating or joining, bringing more people together around the world.


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The Bariatric Unit
General Hospital offers a dedicated Bariatric Unit on 2-South with a patient friendly environment from bigger chairs to doors. These oversized private rooms will comfortably accommodate patients and their guests. Everyone from the transport staff to the floor nurses share the Weight Loss Center's dedication to provide the highest-quality care.
What Is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery includes a spectrum of procedures from restrictive to malabsorptive to those combining the two. Restrictive procedures such as Adjustable Gastric Banding (Lap-Band) reduce the size of the stomach, and malabsorptive and combined procedures such as Roux-en-YGastric Bypass(RGB) and Biliopancreatic Diversion reduce the body's ability to absorb calories and nutrients from food
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
The gastric bypass is both a restrictive and a malabsorptive procedure and is the current gold standard in weight loss surgery in the U.S.
This surgery achieves its effects by creating a small stomach pouch about the size of your thumb. The rest of the stomach is permanently separated from the new pouch. The small intestine is cut below the stomach at the jejunum and is rearranged to provide an outlet from the new stomach pouch to the jejunum. The other end is connected into the side of the Roux limb of the intestine, creating the "Y" shape that gives the technique its name. In this way, the flow of digestive juices from the lower stomach is maintained. Bile and digestive juices are still released from the old stomach and travel down the duodenum and into the jejunum at the new connection.
The new anatomy restricts the type and amount of food consumed and absorbed. The gastric bypass provides a tool with which you can potentially lose a substantial amount of excess body weight, as long as you are motivated to maintain life-style changes, healthier eating habits and regular exercise.
Advantages Of Roux-en-y Gastric Bypass
Most patients lose weight quickly and continue to lose for 18 to 24 months after the procedure. With the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, many patients maintain a weight loss of 60 to 70 percent of their excess weight for 10 years or more. Because combined operations result in greater weight loss than restrictive operations, they may also be more effective in improving the health problems associated with severe obesity, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, and osteoarthritis.
Disadvantages of Roux-en-y Gastric Bypass
Combined procedures are more difficult to perform than the restrictive procedures. They are also more likely to result in long-term nutritional deficiencies. This is because the operation causes food to bypass the duodenum and jejunum, where most iron and calcium are absorbed. Menstruating women may develop anemia because not enough vitamin B12 and iron are absorbed. Decreased absorption of calcium may also bring on osteoporosis and related bone diseases. Patients must take nutritional supplements that usually prevent these deficiencies.
RGB operations may also cause Dumping Syndrome an unpleasant reaction that can occur after a meal high in simple carbohydrates, which contain sugars that are rapidly absorbed by the body. Stomach contents move too quickly through the small intestine, causing symptoms such as nausea, bloating, abdominal pain, weakness, sweating, faintness, and sometimes diarrhea after eating.
Risks of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Risks common to all surgeries for weight loss include an infection in the incision, a leak from the stomach into the abdominal cavity or where the intestine is connected (resulting in an infection called (peritonitis), and a blood clot in the lung (pulmonary embolism). About one-third of all people having surgery for obesity develop gallstones or a nutritional deficiency condition such as anemia or osteoporosis. Fewer than 3 in 200 (1.5%) people die after surgery for weight loss.
Risks after a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
- An iron and vitamin B12 deficiency occurs more than 30% of the time. About 50% of those with an iron deficiency develop anemia.
- The connection between the stomach and the intestines narrows 5% to 15% of the time, leading to nausea and vomiting after eating.
- Ulcersdevelop 5% to 15% of the time.
- The staples may pull loose.
- Herniamay develop
- The bypassed stomach may enlarge, resulting in hiccups and bloating
Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAP Band or Realize Band)
The adjustable gsatric band is a silicon based hollow ring, filled with saline and placed around the upper part of the stomach. This creates a new small stomach pouch with the larger part of the stomach below the adjustable gastric band. The pouch above the band can hold only a small amount of food. The band also controls the stomach outlet between the two parts of the stomach. The size of the opening between the two parts of the stomach controls the flow rate of the food from the upper part to the lower part of the stomach. This lets you feel full sooner. The feeling also lasts longer.
Advantages Of Adjustable Gastric Banding
Restrictive operations are easier to perform and are generally safer than malabsorptive operations. AGB is usually done via laparoscopy, which uses smaller incisions, creates less tissue damage, and involves shorter operating time and hospital stays than open procedures. Restrictive operations can be reversed if necessary, and result in few nutritional deficiencies.
Disadvantages Of Adjustable Gastric Banding
Patients who undergo restrictive operations generally lose less weight than patients who have malabsorptive operations, and are less likely to maintain weight loss over the long term. Patients generally lose about half of their excess body weight in the first year after restrictive procedures. However, in the first 3 to 5 years after surgery, patients may regain some of the weight they lost. By 10 years, as few as 20 percent of patients have kept the weight off. Some patients regain weight by eating high-calorie soft foods that easily pass through the opening to the stomach. Others are unable to change their eating habits and do not lose much weight to begin with. Successful results depend on the patient's willingness to adopt a long-term plan of healthy eating and regular physical activity.
Risks of Adjustable Gastric Banding
One of the most common risks of restrictive operations is vomiting, which occurs when the patient eats too much or the narrow passage into the larger part of the stomach is blocked. Another is slippage or wearing away of the band. A common risk of an adjustable gastric band is breaks in the tubing between the band and the access port. This can cause the salt solution to leak, requiring another operation to repair. Some patients experience infections and bleeding, but this is much less common than other risks. Between 15 and 20 percent of Lap Band patients may have to undergo a second operation for a problem related to the procedure. Although restrictive operations are the safest of the bariatric procedures, they still carry risk. In less than 1 percent of all cases, complications can result in death.
Am I a candidate for weight loss surgery?
To find out if you are a candidate for weight loss surgery, answer the nine questions below.
Weight Loss Surgery Candidate Quiz
- Do you have a body mass index (BMI) greater or equal to 35 with one or more significant obesity related condition including high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, sleep apnea, and high cholesterol? OR Do you have a BMI greater than 40, regardless of other medical conditions? Calculate your BMI
- Are you 16-70 years of age? (some exceptions)
- Do you understand and accept the operative risks?
- Have you failed attempts with diet plans, and behavioral and medical therapy?
- Do you have realistic weight loss expectations and are motivated to make lifestyle changes?
- Are you capable of understanding the procedure and implications?
- Can you make a commitment to follow the post-surgical diet, vitamin supplementation, exercise program, and medical follow-up necessary for health and weight maintenance?
- Are you free of any psychiatric illnesses, substance or alcohol abuse that may prevent you from being able to safely undergo surgery?
- Have you been obese for the last 5 years?
If you answered yes to all of the above questions, you may be a candidate for weight loss surgery.
If you did not answer yes to all of the above questions, click here for more information regarding our Medical Weight Loss Program.
Eight steps for undergoing weight loss surgery
Attend our Free Seminar.
It is mandatory before scheduling an appointment that you attend one of our free educational seminars. The seminars are presented by Dr. Shin himself and will answer many of your questions regarding details of both the Lap Band and Gastric Bypass surgery.Educational Seminar Schedule
Review your Insurance Policy.
While our facility is willing to assist you with the insurance process, it is your responsibility to contact your insurance company and verify that you have coverage for the procedure. You may also check the "Exclusion of Coverage" or "Certificate of Coverage" section for mention of a specific weight loss surgery option.
Complete Supervised Weight Loss Program Specified by Insurance
Most insurance companies currently require documentation of previous weight loss attempts that have been supervised by a primary care physician or other medical professional. Your insurance may require you to complete anywhere from 3-12 months of supervised weight loss within the last 2-5 years prior to insurance approval. If you have been working with your physician, you will be asked to submit a copy of the records to the Weight Loss Center so they can be submitted to your insurance company. If you are required to complete supervised weight loss but have not started this process, you may be eligible to participate in the CAMC Medical Weight Loss Prior to Surgery Program.
These records must include the following information:
- Documentation should include physician or other professional signatures, address and phone number and preferably would be printed on physician letterhead.
- The diet plan you are currently following (Low fat, Weight Watchers, South Beach, etc.).
- Your weight must be recorded at each visit
- Recommendations for behavioral or lifestyle modifications.
- Current exercise plan and recommendations.
- Proof of weight loss during supervised weight loss program.
- ff medications used
Click here to see a sample of supervised weight loss documentation
Complete the Letter of Intent.
Prior to proceeding with a weight loss surgery, you are asked to submit a letter of intent to the Weight Loss Center, as part of the pre-surgical screening process. This letter will become part of your CAMC medical file. Please type your letter and submit this with the patient packet at your initial visit to the Weight Loss Center
This letter should include the following:
- Your reasons for considering weight loss surgery.
- Your expectations for the outcome after your surgery.
- Your knowledge and understanding about the surgical procedure.
- Your understanding and motivation regarding the recommended lifestyle, diet and exercise changes after your weight loss surgery.
- A description of how you will get social support. (family, friends, etc)
- Your signature, printed name and the date
Complete the Consent Form.
If your insurance company requires prior authorization, you will need to fill out a consent form allowing your doctor's office to release information about your condition to your insurance company.
Complete the Patient Worksheet.
The Weight Loss Center Patient Packet is included in the educational materials issued at the Educational Seminar. These forms are also available online. It is necessary that you bring this information with you to your initial visit at the Weight Loss Center. This information will also be used in your insurance submission.
Obtain Copies of Medical Records.
It is beneficial if you obtain copies of medical records, including physician referrals of your primary care physician as well as other healthcare professionals who have treated you for obesity and related conditions. The Weight Loss Center cannot gather, copy or organize these documents for you.
Documentation of your treatment for the following conditions may be required:
- Type 2 Diabetes
- High Blood Pressure
- Sleep Apnea
- Asthma
- Joint Problems
Attendance of one support group meeting
Prior to the weight loss surgery being performed, it is mandatory to attend one surgical support group meeting so you can talk to those who have undergone weight loss surgery and get an idea of what you can expect. Click here for a list of upcoming meetings.
Preoperative Care
Physician/Nurse consultation
You will meet with the physician and the nurse the same day as a new patient. A consultation is first completed with the nurse prior to meeting with the physician.
During the consultation with the nurse, an extensive medical history background will be taken. Past and present medical conditions will be reviewed. A list of current medications will be needed. The nurse will be screening for current tobacco and alcohol use. The nurse will also discuss any past surgeries and any known drug allergies. During the initial visit, the nurse will discuss any past history with dieting, diet pills or exercise programs you may have tried in the past. A complete head to toe physical will be completed by the nurse and a brief overview of the surgery will be discussed.
You then will meet with the physician. The physician will review all medical history previously obtained by the nurse. The physician will discuss the surgical procedure in great detail and discuss the risks and alternatives to the surgical procedure. Any questions you may have regarding the surgery will be answered in detail per the physician.
Nutritional Screening
A consultation with a registered dietitian is part of the necessary documentation required for surgical authorization. At this appointment, the dietitian will be screening for any dietary behaviors and habits that may interfere with your abilities to follow the postoperative dietary guidelines.
The dietitian will also set you up with a meal plan that will help you to begin making the dietary and behavioral changes necessary to successfully lose weight following surgery.
Psychological screening
A consultation with a licensed psychologist is required prior to surgical authorization.
This visit includes a complete psychological testing and involves completion of:
Preoperative teaching
Preoperative teaching is completed in our office usually 7-14 days prior to surgery. During the preoperative teaching visit, you will meet with the nurse only. This visit usually takes about an hour to complete. An extensive review of the surgical procedure is discussed the patient. Family members or support people are welcome to come and take part in this educational session as well. The risks, benefits and alternatives to the surgery are reviewed. Patients are made aware of expectations while in hospital and after discharged home. An appropriate amount of time is allotted to ask questions if needed.
Preadmission testing
Preadmission testing will be completed anywhere from 7-14 days prior to your scheduled surgery date – usually the same day as your preoperative teaching that is completed in our office. Preadmission testing (PAT) is completed at CAMC General Hospital.
Preadmission testing includes; Lab work (CBC, CMP, PT/INR, PTT, urine pregnancy test), EKG (if not recently completed within last 6 months) and possibly a chest x-ray after reviewing your pulmonary medical history. During PAT, you will also meet with the anesthesiologist.
The day of your surgery
You will be expected to arrive at General Hospital the day of your surgery two hours prior to the actual surgery time.
After surgery, you will then be transferred to the bariatric unit. This is where you will stay until you are discharged home from the hospital.
During your hospital stay, you will be on the Phase 1 diet. Expected hospital stay will be one night for Adjustable Gastric Banding patients and two – three nights for Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy patients. Before discharged, you will be educated on the Phase 2 Diet, how to maintain proper incision care, your 7-10 day post-op follow up appointment that will be in our office, physician will also discuss medications that you need to continue and discontinue.
Post-operative care
1 week after surgery
During this visit, you will meet with the nurse and physician. Your abdominal drain and staples (Gastric Bypass patients) or just staples (Lap Band patients) will be removed. Phase 3 diet is discussed in great detail during this visit.
1 month after surgery
During this visit, you will meet with the dietician, nurse and exercise physiologist. The phase 4 diet will be discussed in great detail and an exercise program will be designed to fit your personal needs and regular exercise is recommended at this time after surgery.
3 month after surgery
During this visit, you will meet with the nurse. The nurse will discuss a Vitamin and Mineral Handout that is essential after bariatric surgery.
6 month after surgery
During this visit, you will meet with the nurse, physician, dietician and exercise physiologist. Dietary recalls are reviewed, medical complaints or questions reviewed, as well as progression after bariatric surgery is discussed and an exercise session is completed during this visit. An order for general lab work is given to the patient to have completed within 1-2 weeks to review current lab value status – making sure values are within normal limits.
9 month after surgery
During this visit, you will meet with the nurse and physician. Dietary recalls are reviewed, medical complaints or questions reviewed, as well as progression after bariatric surgery.
12 month after surgery
During this visit, you will meet with the nurse, physician and dietician and exercise physiologist. Dietary recalls are reviewed, medical complaints or questions reviewed, as well as progression after bariatric surgery is discussed and an exercise session is completed during this visit. An order for general lab work is given to the patient to have completed within 1-2 weeks to review current lab value status – making sure values are within normal limits.
18 month after surgery
During this visit, you will meet with the nurse, physician and dietician. Dietary recalls are reviewed, medical complaints or questions reviewed, as well as progression after bariatric surgery is discussed.
24 month after surgery
During this visit, you will meet with the nurse and physician. Dietary recalls are reviewed, medical complaints or questions reviewed, as well as progression after bariatric surgery is discussed. An order for general lab work is given to the patient to have completed within 1-2 weeks to review current lab value status – making sure values are within normal limits.
Annual visits after surgery
During this visit, you will meet with the nurse and physician. Dietary recalls are reviewed, medical complaints or questions reviewed, as well as progression after bariatric surgery is discussed. An order for general lab work is given to the patient to have completed within 1-2 weeks to review current lab value status – making sure values are within normal limits.
The necessities after Bariatric Surgery
- Protein Daily Requirements – Male: 110-120 grams, Female: 80-90 grams
- Fluid (Combined Fluid) Daily Requirements – Male: 64 ounces, Female: 64 ounces
- Exercise Requirements – 3 to 4 days per week, 30-45 minute intervals.
- Vitamins. Male: Prenatal vitamin or Multivitamin, Vitamin B12 (injection once a month or sublingual tablet daily), Amino Iron 18mg (if anemic) and Calcium supplement with Vitamin D (1200mg total per day).
Female: Prenatal vitamin, Vitamin B12 (injection once a month or sublingual tablet daily), Amino Iron 18mg (if anemic or menstruating) and Calcium supplement with Vitamin D (1200mg total per day).
- Follow up appointments. Bariatric surgery requires a life long commitment with your bariatric surgeon and staff members.
- Support Group Meetings. It is very important to have a support team to ask questions. We stress to our patients the importance of attending the monthly support group meetings. Our meetings are held once a month in Charleston. Experience has shown that patients who attend the support group meetings do better with progression after surgery. There is always an interesting topic and speaker to provide you with additional information and education regarding weight loss surgery.
4 Phases of Diet
Phase 1
Begins right after surgery, during hospital stay) – Clear Liquid Diet.
- Water
- Decaffeinated Tea/Coffee
- Broth Soups
- Bouillon
- Sugar free Gelatin
- Diluted 100% juice
- Sugar free Crystal
- Sugar free Kool-Aid
- Sugar free Lemonade
- Sugar free Tang
- Pedialyte
- Sugar free Fudgsicles/Popsicles
- Diet V-8 Splash
- Fruit2O
- skim milk
- 1% milk.
Phase 2
Begins the day that you are discharged home from the hospital – Full Thick Liquid Diet.
- Water
- Decaffeinated Tea/Coffee
- Broth Soups
- Bouillon
- Sugar free Gelatin
- Diluted 100% juice
- Sugar free Crystal
- Sugar free Kool-Aid
- Sugar free Lemonade
- Sugar free Tang
- Pedialyte
- Sugar free Fudgsicles/Popsicles
- Diet V-8 Splash
- Fruit2O
- low fat cottage cheese (blenderized)
- no sugar added yogurt
- sugar free jello
- sugar free pudding
- Stage 1 baby food fruits and vegetables
- strained cream soups.
Phase 3
Begins 1 week post-op – Soft Solid Diet / Pureed Diet.
- Scrambled poached, or soft boiled eggs
- low fat cottage cheese
- pureed legumes (black beans, navy beans, split peas, pinto beans, kidney beans, fat free refried beans)
- soy products
- seafoods (scallops, baked or broiled fish, shrimp)
- smooth – natural peanut butter
- blenderized meats
- tuna salad
- egg salad
- chicken salad
- deli meats
- soft cooked vegetables
- bananas
- honeydew
- cantaloupe
- watermelon
- plain oatmeal
- cream of wheat
- grits
- Also included are Phase 1 and Phase 2 diet choices.
Phase 4
(Begins 1 month post-op)- Regular Diet
- Low fat or light cheese
- cooked lean meat
- fish
- poultry
- eggs
- dried beans
- cooked/canned or raw fruits and vegetables.
- Also included are Phase 1, Phase 2 and Phase 3 diet choices


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Trimite Global Coatings has purchased all intellectual property (IPR), including trademarks and brand names, relating to the former Trimite Ltd. business that went into administration in March 2009. Stretford Group, the owner of Trimite Global Coatings, secured the rights.
"I am delighted with the speedy acquisition of the assets - we are now able to protect the heritage and goodwill associated with the Trimite name in the coatings industry," said Jonathan Irwin, group managing director of Trimite Global Coatings. "We have worked with Stretford Group to become financially stable and create a firm foundation for growth by focusing on our key markets and technologies."
Trimite Global Coatings has announced that it has invested in R&D with the aim of setting new standards in global coatings production and technologies and re-emerging as a key player in the global coatings industry. The R&D investment will further enhance the company's comprehensive range of coatings technologies supplied to clients in the U.K. and internationally.
Trimite Global Coatings products include paints, powder coatings and pre-treatments for key markets such as vehicles and engines, defense and aerospace, homeware, security, agricultural and construction equipment and teletronics.


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Principal 'shuts down' Pledge of Allegiance
Decision to skip pledge over shutdown outrages many parents
Students in a western Nebraska town were banned from reciting the Pledge of Allegiance one day last week because of the government shutdown.
The decision by Alliance High School Principal Pat Jones on Oct. 7 outraged parents and some students alike.
One woman told The Associated Press her son stood up in class and recited the pledge anyway.
District superintendent Troy Unzicker said Jones hadn't cleared the move beforehand, and wouldn't be doing so again.
He would not say whther Jones had been disciplined.
"There were some positive aspects that came out of it, but (skipping the pledge) is not something we will do again," Unzicker said.
Distributed by Internet Broadcasting. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Viewer Comments
How do I get the download ? I love these papers--great for masculine cards.
Reply from Paper Wishes Customer Service:
Here are the steps:
1. Go to PaperWishes.com.
2. In the red bar near the top of the page, youâll the word "search." In that box type in Steampunk (or the name of the paper pack) and hit the return key on your keyboard.
3. You will see bunch of items. Click on the words (Steampunk Paper Pack) under the photo of the Steampunk Paper Pack.
3. That will take you to the product page. You should see a black box with white letters talking about the download. Click in the box where it says Click Here.
4. You will have an image asking if you want the download, click Yes.
The download will appear and you can print in off.
We usually have a free download which matches each of our paper packs. They are available when I show them in The Scoop email. If you don't get this free newsletter, you can sign up at the top of the homepage.
These papers are just what I need to use with vintage pictures.
I had heard of steampunk, but didn't know what it was until now! What a cool kit! I love the paper and all of the embellies that go with it!
I LOVE this kit and cannot wait for it to get back in stock.
Reply from Paper Wishes Customer Service:
Good news! Everything is in stock and we're good to go.
Love the Steampunk look. It reminds me of the imagery used in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
Absolutely loved this webisode. It really showed the papers & embellishments & what fun they will be to use.
I am always looking for ideas for more masculine cards. These papers are perfect! The Webisodes and gallery are so helpful! Thank you!!!!
I have been waiting for all the elements of your Steampunk line to be available, having some "steampunkers" at home, myself. The webisode and projects are wonderful, as always, providing lots of inspiration. Love the addition of the zipper and hammered papers...Well done, ladies!
Love your webisode on Steampunk! You have such great ideas for both scrapbooking and card making! I can hardly wait for this month's Personal Shopper Dazzles to arrive
I was pleasantly surprised to see the new Steampunk designs! My son and his friend are now getting into this trend and now there are stamps and papers to keep up with the look. I Love it too!
I think this weeks vid was just great, this would appeal to all ages and genders, thanks
Now I know how to use those old broken zippers. Thanks for a great Steampunk video!
Paper Wishes Weekly Webisodes feature free scrapbooking video classes and card making video classes! Every week Paulette and LeNae bring you new online scrapbooking or card making classes demonstrating the very latest paper craft and scrapbooking techniques. Each of our free card making and scrapbooking classes also gives you unique project ideas and tips from Paper Wishes' Design Team. Come back often so you don't miss any of the fun in our card making and scrapbooking classes! You are sure to be inspired! Also watch for our "Week of Webisodes" events where we feature new scrapbooking video classes daily!


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Sunday January 11, 2009
Stats are thrown out the window at this point because they don't mean a thing anymore! It's the playoffs and if a team doesn't show up to play their "A" game then it's best they are sent home any ways. This Sunday afternoon the Chargers come to Pittsburgh to battle the Steelers for the right to play in the ADC Championship game. Last year the Steelers were one and done in the playoffs so Mike Tomlin is looking to capture his first playoff win as head coach. To get that first victory Tomlin is going to be relying on his defense to do what they have done all year and for the offense to do something they haven't been able to do all year... move the ball and put some points on the board!
The Steelers have a stout defense that is known for stopping the run. However, this year the Steelers added "Shutting down the pass" to their defensive resume as well, and quite convincingly as well! Ryan Clark is practicing this week and should make his return along side Troy Polamalu in the safety spot. Clark is one of those defenders wide receivers think about when they come across the middle of the field because Clark is usually waiting for the receiver to jar the ball free. The secondary will need to be on their toes to try and cool down a hot Phillip Rivers. Thankfully, the defensive player of the year, James Harrison will be back in action after missing the final game of the season. He claims to be re-energized after being off for two weeks and his licking his chops to get back on the field and make Rivers' life a living hell on Sunday!
Big Ben is returning this Sunday after sustaining a concussion the final week of the season. Ben seems to be in good spirits and joking with media about his latest concussion. When Ben was recently asked if he has failed recent concussion tests his response with a laugh was "I don't know, I can't remember?". Any Steeler fan has to wonder though if the points put on the board week 17 was either because they were playing the Browns or because of Byron Leftwich. Granted Leftwich didn't win the game for the Steelers because they were already up 7-0 when he entered the game, but the fans haven't been use to seeing that many point on the board in awhile. The last big number on the score board was Dec 7th against Dallas and 6 of those were from a late Townsend touchdown. The offense of the Steelers is the definite "X" factor and will be the ultimate decision maker for how deep the Steelers go in the playoffs.
For the Steelers to make it to the AFCCG, they need to do the following
Join us this Sunday afternoon as we talk about the game and cheer our Steelers to a victory!
- NO TURNOVERS - Almost 75% of the Steelers turnovers can be accounted for in their 4 losses on the season.
- Contain either Tomlinson or Sproles, especially Sproles on the little check downs in passing situations
- Offense needs to come alive


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Cook pasta as package directs, rinse and set aside. If using whole shiitake mushrooms, remove the stems, discard and slice the cap. Prepare the broth by placing the kombu, shiitake, shiitake soaking water and water in a pot. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce the flame to medium low and simmer 5 minutes. Remove kombu (keep and use in other dishes), cover and simmer another 5 minutes. Reduce the flame to low and add the shoyu and mirin. Simmer 3 to 5 minutes. Place cooked noodles in bowls. Pour hot broth over. Garnish each bowl with equal amounts of bonito flakes, nori and green onions.
Per serving - 191 calories, 1 g fat (7% calories from fat), 8 g protein, 37 g carbohydrate, 4 g fiber, 0 mg cholesterol, 468 mg sodium


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Still in its infancy, many people are wondering about the future of 3D. Is it really viable for films and TV? What about other venues? It most definitely is, but it has to be done in a way that takes the best advantage of the new tools and technology.
3D, as it was explained to me, is not so much a way of filming, but a tool used to tell a story in a certain way and not all stories need it or want it.
As I watched the Katie Perry concert shot in 3D on the set in front of us, I could feel not only the energy but I could really feel as if I was there in the audience.
At the recent seminar at 3ALITY Technica, I learned a lot about 3D productions that I had not before known. The panel consisting of David Cohen of Daily Variety (moderator) Steve Schklair (CEO of 3ality Technica); John Rubey (President of AEG Network LIVE); Ted Kenney (Director of Production for 3ality Technica); and George Bellias (Owner Jade Productions) enlightened us on the history and uses of 3D for now and the future.
One of the problems for people who have purchased 3D televisions or attend 3D movies is that many producers and studios have jumped on the band wagon, but don't really know how to work with 3D. Having shot in 2D, they will add a few effects in conversion and hype the 3D to justify the extra ticket price. It's easy to see when a film has been poorly converted. The images still remain flat. Hybrid films are possible, but the 3D has to be shot in the way to take the best advantage of it. Men In Black 3 is a perfect example of a film shot to be seen in 2D. It was badly converted to 3D to maximize revenue for the producers. This is not to say conversions are all bad. Lion King and Titanic are examples of conversions done right. When watching Titanic in 3D, it's like seeing the movie anew.
Good content for 3D (in films) is hard to find, but some of the biggest directors in Hollywood are doing it. The panel citied two as being among the best - Hugo, which was shot in 3D and intended for it from the beginning and Prometheus. Indeed, seeing a clip in 2D and then experiencing the same clip in 3D is a world of difference. The emersion into the story and the identification with the characters is amazing.
Shooting for 3D requires a different mind set than most directors and producers have. For one, the 3D shot lingers longer on the frame and you can have two people talking and feel like you are there with them. There is less panning and fewer cuts. The camera is participating in the scene.
Currently, the best use of 3D is in sports and the live concert arena. Less cameras are used because they are positioned and shoot differently. For instance, when Ted Kenney did the Black Eyed Peas at the Super Bowl, he only used five cameras and not the 21 cameras that might have been used if he'd shot in 2D.
Providing the raw material of the 3D is easier and less costly than one might think. They have simplified the use of 3D cameras through its proprietary software and so with very little training normal crews can use the equipment. "It's the signal that matters," said Steven Schklair. Then the material can be processed by IMAX, Disney, Panasonic or any of the other 3D systems.
For more information about 3D call 3ality Technica at 818 333 3000


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TNT's highly anticipated, juicy resurrection of the classic primetime oil biz soap "Dallas" returns to TV two decades after its long initial run on CBS (1978-91) with a green sensibility that informs the plot and some of the characters. The family dysfunction and rivalry that were the hallmark of the original continues between oil baron J.R. Ewing (Larry Hagman) and his brother Bobby (Patrick Duffy) and perpetuates in the new generation represented by J.R.'s hotheaded, money-driven son John Ross (Josh Henderson) and his cousin Christopher (Jesse Metcalfe), Bobby's adopted son who's established Ewing Alternative, an effort to promote sustainable fuel sources.
"Both sides are equally represented," says executive producer and show runner Cynthia Cidre, who has done "an awful lot of research" about the energy business. You'll also see Christopher driving an electric Tesla Roadster (executive producer Michael Robin's car, shipped in because one couldn't be sourced locally in Dallas) and his fiancée Rebecca (Julie Gonzalo) behind the wheel of a plug-in Chevy Volt.
The actors are similarly eco-conscious. Hagman, a long-time solar energy advocate who has campaigned for more electric vehicle charging stations, adopted a vegan lifestyle after his diagnosis and treatment for throat cancer last year at the urging of co-star Linda Gray (his character's ex-wife SueEllen, now a politician with her eye on the governor's office). "She said, 'It'll get you off all those steroids in turkey, chicken and beef, and it'll cleanse your body.' I drink these kale, spinach and cucumber things and it makes me feel great," says the 80-year-old, thrilled to be working, especially with his closest friends, and reprising his iconic role. He likens returning to it to "stepping into an old pair of slippers," and has a theory about why the old rascal is so eternally appealing. "Everybody's got a jerk like that in their family. They can hate him, but they know who he is."
Metcalfe ("Desperate Housewives") shares his character's concerns about the environment. "I'm a liberal Democrat and I'm very concerned why we don't put more time, energy and money into alternative energy sources, and why we're so dependent on foreign oil," says the actor, who was drawn to the character's idealism and family values as well as the show's themes of greed, power, desire and love — the latter represented in the triangle involving his ex (Jordana Brewster), who's now with John Ross, providing another source of conflict between them.
Henderson's oil drilling character may not be eco-conscious, "but in my day-to-day life I try to do everything that I can — recycling, turning off the lights," says the actor, an actual Dallas native who remembers his grandma watching the original series when he was very young, and as he grew up, "I completely understood the impact that it had on the city, Texas and the world." He's finding the scheming character fun to play. "He's always trying to stay a couple of steps ahead of everybody, his wheels are always turning and I like, as an actor, not to know exactly what you're going to get when you go in to a scene. He's a bit hotheaded," Henderson agrees, "but he's very passionate about what he's doing."
"I'm a vegetarian. I recycle, I do everything that I can do," says Gonzalo, who has vague memories of her mother watching "Dallas" in Spanish — she was born and raised in Argentina. She feels "honored to be part of such an iconic show," and describes her character as "kind of a mystery. With each episode she unravels a little bit more and that's going to be interesting to watch. She comes into it as an outsider, you don't know who she is."
New to Southfork if not the world of primetime melodrama, Brenda Strong — the mostly off-screen narrator of "Desparate Housewives" — plays Bobby's second wife, Ann. "I've certainly had a lot of time to be invisible. And now it's my turn to be more visible," she says, describing Ann as "an equal to Bobby Ewing. She comes from a moneyed family. She's smart. She's accomplished. She's just as nice and she's tough as nails. And she's in some respects the new Miss Ellie. She doesn't waste her words,but when she does speak she speaks with a lot of weight. She loves her family. And there's a sense that you don't want to mess with her. She not only knows how to ride but she knows how to shoot. She takes J.R. on, out of protection of Bobby. She also has a much darker past than anyone knows, and it will start to come out. You'll find this is a woman who has a lot of complexity and is much more dimensional than she appears on the surface."
An avid vintage shopper, Strong bought an old record player and some vinyl records by Sarah Vaughan and Ella Fitzgerald while shooting in Dallas, and haunts secondhand clothing shops, although the statuesque actress finds that "Unfortunately, vintage clothes are sometimes a little small and the fabrics don't have the give they do now. "Whenever I can find anything that fits me, I'm thrilled."
"Dallas" has its two-hour premiere June 13 on TNT.
Also on MNN: 'Dallas' star returns in solar energy ad
Photos: Zade Rosenthal, Erik Heinila (Metcalfe and Gonzalo)
Check out our celeb section and watch Ecollywood videos.


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This stroller may cost more than your mortgage payment.
A British auto company has teamed up with high-end stroller company Silver Cross to offer newborns a taste of the Bond life with a $3,000 stroller.
Aston Martin, best known for manufacturing the 007 cars, calls its strollers "the most exclusive pram in the world," according to the U.K. Telegraph.
The Silver Cross Surf Aston Martin stroller has aluminum alloy wheels based on the $1.8 million Aston Martin One-77, the same leather as used in Aston Martin cars. Its air-ride suspension also "guarantees a smooth ride for all," according to the New York Daily News.
The carriage is a limited edition and only 800 strollers will be made. It is now available for sale at $3,000 at British department store Harrods.
$3,000 "Bond" Stroller Hits the Market
This stroller may cost more than your mortgage payment.


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This file was made using 3d Max 2010, so the material will only work in 3d max 2010/2011
These amazing materials come with a professional caustics render scene is included to help get the best out the textures, ready to use simple add you own models to the scene. colours included white, red, blue, light blue, green, light green, purple, pink and many more.
File includes 1. a professional caustics render scene 2. detailed html instruction file 3. 12 glass materials file 4. Large preview image of materials


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If you are in the market for a green job, interested in learning more about green employment opportunities or want to pursue an environmentally friendly college major, then Washington DC is the place to be this February. The Marriot Wardman Park Hotel as well as the Omni Shoreham Hotel will host the 2009 Good Jobs Green Jobs National Conference from February 4-6, 2009. The theme for this year's conference is Making a Down Payment on the Green Economy. Conference attendees will be able to network with others, participate in informative breakout sessions, visit the Green Jobs Expo, join in the Green Jobs Advocacy Day and much more.
The timing of the 2009 conference, coming shortly after President-elect Obama takes office, makes this a great opportunity for those who wish to take part in the Green Jobs Advocacy Day. This half-day event will take place on February 4, 2009 as registered participants visit Capitol Hill. For more information on the Green Jobs Advocacy Day, please contact Roxanne Brown of the United Steelworkers at 202-778-3304.
For those interested in obtaining employment in the industry, the Green Jobs Expo will host more than 100 exhibits from companies, colleges, trade schools and environmental organizations. The Expo will highlight a range of green-oriented academic majors as well as current and future green employment opportunities. The Green Jobs Expo is free and will take place on February 5, 2009 from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
A variety of organizations, including the BlueGreen Alliance, the Sierra Club, the United Steelworkers, the Communication Workers of America and the Natural Resources Defense Council, have joined forces to sponsor the 2009 conference.
For more details about the conference, please visit the Good Jobs Green Jobs National Conference website.


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We saw this coming well down the pipeline:
Medicare says it won't pay for hospital errors
It's the next logical step in pay-for performance. The goal is laudable and the effect will probably be beneficial, but it is a little frustrating to view from this side of the fence. Medicare insiders will tell you quite frankly that while they (as we) view patient safely/quality of care as the highest priority and ultimate goal, these measures are being instituted with the underlying intent of cost containment. They know that any overt reductions in reimbursement will provoke a backlash from providers (including facilities), many of whom are politically well-enough connected to block it. But by linking the payment reductions to real or supposed deficiencies in quality, it creates a situation in which providers cannot oppose them without seeming to oppose patient safety initiatives, which is simply not tenable, politically. It's a catch-22.
And don't think that the physician reimbursements won't wind up encumbered in the same way, sooner or later.
20 August 2007
Medicare puts the squeeze on hospitals
We saw this coming well down the pipeline:
Posted by shadowfax at 2:59 AM
4 comments:
Yep, it's a toss up : lawyer / politician / insurance administrator. Still haven't clarified it for myself yet.ReplyDelete
Have a good day ;-)
First Law: The Art of Medicine consists of amusing the patient while nature takes its course.
Second Law: It is impossible to make an asymptomatic patient feel better.
Third Law: The urgency of the test is inversely proportional to the IQ of the insurance company pre-authorisation clerk.
Fourth Law: No good deed goes unpunished.
Fifth Law: A patient's acceptance of a screening test is inversely proportional to its necessity for that particular patient.
Sixth Law: Trauma survival is inversely related to the patient's value to society.
Seventh Law: Fertility is inversely proportional to intelligence.
Eighth Law: The better the surgeon, the more reluctant he/she is to operate.
Ninth Law: Part A: It has to be fun. Part B: If it isn't fun, see Part A.
Tenth Law: "Simple" and "Easy" are not necessarily the same.
Eleventh Law: Poor planning on your part is not an emergency on my part.
Twelfth Law: A bad idea held by many people for a long time is still a bad idea.
- Anonymous8/20/2007 9:18 AM
I think it is a good step, but I do sympathize with your position. We definitely need to do something to re-invigerate our system. We have neglected it to the point were people are forgoe-ing care and our seniors are going to foreign pharmacies to afford their medications.ReplyDelete
- Anonymous8/20/2007 11:11 AM
How do you reconcile this with your enthusiasm for single payer? I don't mean this to sound confrontational--you're an excellent thinker and I'm interested in your opinion.ReplyDelete
My concern is with the concept of "errors." Some things are controllable and others not. A patient staying at facility (or hospital) is looked over by several entities . . . nursing staff, PCP, consulting physicians, and let's not forget friends and family. Who is responsible . . . let's say for the simple case of MRSA (which is one of the charter six errors) that may develop as a skin lesion?ReplyDelete
Not everything in a hospital environment has a single controlable source.
Contaminated bed rails, contact with who knows how many individuals during the stay, self infected courier, or any other source . . . Who will get penalized? Hospital, PCP, nursing staff . . . It's a very complex situation.
CA-MRSA is on such a dramatic rise in my area I can't even imagine the implications of this new outlook.
With the list expected to become even larger . . . the implication for primary care can be astounding. This may make many to choose hospitalist services for inpatient management and let them absorb the risk.
Just some initial thoughts


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Attractive, Long Life Acrylic That Beautifies Your Room Decor
Easily Installed Using CRL Double Sided Tape
CRL Clear Acrylic Mirror Grilles have 3/8 inch (9.5 millimeter) wide slots that are designed to maximize air flow.
The grilles are made of mirror-backed, long life acrylic and the edges are beautifully beveled.
Available in a variety of widths and sizes.
CRL Acrylic Grilles will definitely enhance your room decor.
Color: Clear
Width: 12 in (304 mm)
Height: 6 in (152 mm)
Important Note:
CRL Acrylic Grilles are intended for use only on air conditioning ducts and not for hot air registers.


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USB Secure 2.0.1 Final
Where there is a USB Drive, there has to be USB Secure! USB Secure can password protect USB drives. Protection is PC independent, doesn't require installation and doesn't require administrator rights at the other end. Never again worry about lost or stolen USB drives if you have protected it with USB Secure. USB Secure works with all types of portable media like USB Flash drives, Thumb drives, Memory sticks, External drives and Memory Cards.
What is USB Secure?
USB Secure helps you password protect USB drive, thumb drive, memory stick, pen drive, jump drive, flash drive and external hard drive. It supports plug and play and runs automatically once a USB drive is plugged in, asking you the password for it. USB Secure is hassle free and it doesn't need a rocket scientist to master.
USB drives are the most popular way to move data from one PC to another. They are small in size but can carry gigabytes of data. They are easy to use, convenient, affordable, but at the same time they pose a security risk and can be easily lost, stolen or misplaced. A secure USB drive i.e., a password protected USB drive is a must these days as the data that it contains may cost you millions of dollars if stolen or lost.
You can easily lock USB drives with USB Secure and can also password protect memory sticks and all other external storage devices with just a single mouse click. An easy to use setup program will guide you to put the program on your USB drive. It can automatically detect all such drives currently plugged into your PC. After installing simply run the software, set and confirm a password, protect USB drive and sit back and relax!
It's not necessary to run the software every time you want to protect USB drive; you can simply choose 'Protect This USB Drive' option from the Windows Autoplay that pops up every time you plug-in your USB drive. You can also double click the USB drive in your PC to launch the program. To unprotect your secure USB drive, click 'Unprotect' and enter correct password to access your data again.
Another great feature of USB Secure is that it doesn't require any Administrator rights to run and therefore there is no need to install it at the other end to retrieve the password protected data. The program also supports plug & play and asks for a password immediately when the drive is plugged-in. Password protect USB drive and other portable media with USB Secure.
USB Secure 2.0.1 Final + Patch-MPT : 4.71 MB
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From 11 August 2018, the State Hermitage will be holding the exhibition "Furniture for a Body's Every Whim…" The Age of Historicism in Russia devoted to the development of the furniture-maker's art between the 1820s and 1890s, when in Russia, following Europe's lead, the single all-embracing style that was Classicism gave way to an enthusiasm for the art of different countries and peoples from the past – the age of Historicism.
Mahogany, metal, Lyon shtof (original); carving, lathe work
Russia, Saint-Petersburg
Mahogany, metal, Lyon shtof (original); carving, lathe work
Russia, Saint-Petersburg
Mahogany, metal, Lyon shtof (original); carving, lathe work
Russia, Saint-Petersburg
Mahogany, metal, glass, cloth; rolling
Wood, Shtof (modern, French); carving, gilding, upholstery-capiton
Walnut wood, leather; thread
Russia, Saint-Petersburg
Workshop of the Gambs Brothers
Around 1839
According to the project A. Bryullov (?)
Oak, leather; thread
Russia, Saint-Petersburg
Wood, fabric (modern); carving, painting
Coniferous species, apple tree, cloth; thread
The third quarter of the XIX century
Wood, fabric (modern); carving, painting
Mahogany, silk (modern); thread
Russia, Saint-Petersburg
Wood, silk; carving, gilding
Russia, Saint-Petersburg
Workshop brothers Gambs
According to the design of O. Montferrand
Wood, leather; thread
The additional opening hours of the exhibition:
A separate entrance for the exhibition visitors will be provided on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays from 18.15 till 21.00 through the Small Hermitage, from Shuvalovsky Proezd (37 Millionnaya Street). The entry ticket is 300 ₽ for all visitors.
In Russia, the era spanned the reigns of three emperors: Nicholas I, Alexander II and Alexander III. Among them, it was undoubtedly Nicholas I who had the strongest influence on the formation of a romantic perception of history.
Drawing inspiration exclusively from Greco-Roman Antiquity, which had for more than 60 years supplied artists' creative palette, began to seem dry and boring. New crazes took Russian cultural life by storm: in art a host of different styles appeared that people at the time gave convenient labels: "Neo-Grecian", "Renaissance", "Second Rococo", "Gothic Revival", "Moresque", "Neo-Pompeian" and so on.
The fascination with the past that found striking expression in high society life in "historical" masquerades, was perhaps reflected strongest of all in works of decorative and applied art. Here furniture, as the chief element within people's material environment, played an important role. In the words of one of the characters in Dostoyevsky's novel The Brothers Karamazov, "There were many sofas and couches, settees, tables, large and small. There were pictures on the walls, vases and lamps on the tables, masses of flowers…"
Tastes in the age of Historicism tended towards variety in shapes and decorative motifs. This also applied to the materials chosen for the finishing of furniture: besides the customary mahogany and "natural look" poplar, they might use stained "black poplar", amaranth (purpleheart), walnut, lemonwood or curly grey maple, supplemented here and there with silvered and gilded elements. Capturing the distinctive features of the legacy of the past, while at the same time seeking to surpass their predecessors, the craftsmen invented new technologies and materials.
The vast range of designs and decorative techniques that the age of Historicism produced defies straightforward description. The names of some pieces of furniture have long since become obsolete or are today used for entirely different objects. And when we are reading our favourite works from that period, we often fail to realize that by mentioning, say, a "bergère" or "Gambs armchairs" an author immediately indicated his characters' standard of living, their tastes and financial circumstances.
Much of daily life in the 19th century is today hidden from us by the veil of the intervening years. Raising that veil and, most importantly, showing the sort of settings in which the dramatic events described by Tolstoy, Dostoyevsky, Goncharov and Turgenev would have taken place is one of the main tasks of the exhibition. Its title "Furniture for a Body's Every Whim" is a quotation from an 1839 short story by Nikolai Pavlov, who was a very well-known writer in his day. The epithets "whimsical", "fanciful" and "ornate" were fashionable expressions used particularly often in the age of Historicism, relating to all sorts of things, but always implying especial refinement.
Of exceptional significance are the examples of items that have survived from the authentic furnishings of the Winter Palace – mute witnesses to the life of the imperial family over a period of several decades.
Pieces of furniture from the rooms of the Winter Palace, many of which were recorded in watercolour paintings of the interiors, form a leitmotif that runs through each section of the display devoted to a particular stylistic tendency of the 1820s–90s. Judging by the painted records, besides the traditional sofas, chairs and armchairs, in the Winter Palace there was a great demand for various secretaires, bureaus and writing desks, especially of the sort one would use standing up. They could be found not only in the emperor's study, but also in practically all the school rooms, the libraries and even the bedrooms. The decoration of the main imperial residence, devised by leading architects was seen by the people of the time as an indicator of fashion, a demonstration of the latest trends in artistic and decorative craftsmanship. Drawings and sketches by gifted architects and designers working on the palace interiors were used for the production of furniture in the workshops of leading St Petersburg manufacturers – the Gambs brothers, Vasily Babkov, Konrad Gut, Adolf Emsen and others, who then included them with minor changes in their own ranges, delighting their customers with items from the furnishing of the palatial halls of "His Majesty the Emperor". Having furniture similar to the monarch's was always prestigious, although exact copies were generally avoided.
There are 300 items in the exhibition, the majority of which are being shown for the first time – drawn designs for furniture; engraved depictions of furniture from the showrooms of St Petersburg shops and workshops; watercolours depicting palace interiors and works of decorative and applied art – reflect the most distinctive phenomena of the time from an artistic point of view and with regard to the patterns of daily life.
The exhibition curator is Natalia Yuryevna Guseva, Candidate of Art Studies, deputy head of the State Hermitage's Department of the History of Russian Culture.
A scholarly illustrated catalogue in Russian "Furniture for a Body's Every Whim…" The Age of Historicism in Russia (St Petersburg: State Hermitage Publishing House, 2018 – 318 pp., ill.) has been prepared for the exhibition with a foreword by Mikhail Piotrovsky, General Director of the State Hermitage. The catalogue text is by Natalia Guseva.
Foreword to the catalogue in Russian "Furniture for a Body's Every Whim…" The Age of Historicism in Russia (St Petersburg: State Hermitage Publishing House, 2018 – 318 pp., ill.)
One of the elements of the Hermitage's mission is to refine society's customary conceptions and sometimes to correct already established, but highly simplistic reputations. The new sweeping exhibition has two themes of this sort: eclecticism as a style and Emperor Nicholas I. "Eklektika" in Russian, meaning the use and combination of various historical styles, has long since become a term of abuse in opinion journalism. The variant "elektizm" – eclecticism – seems more dignified and sounds a little respectful. The Hermitage long ago began using the serious term Historicism and holds frequent exhibitions under that banner. The latest presents Russian furniture whose styles are associated not only chronologically but also aesthetically with Emperor Nicholas I, with his tastes and artistic predilections. His name can be attached not only to a particular variety of the Empire style, but also to the Nicholas Gothic, and to Romanticism, and to the Russian Rococo. The celebrated "Russian style" also has its origins in Nicholas I's tastes. The Emperor deliberately attempted to determine the direction of cultural development, to specify particular patterns and to bring them into general use. One can criticize such efforts and policies as much as one likes, but they were specifically what led to the Hermitage's transformation into a public museum and the construction of an architectural masterpiece for it (the New Hermitage). In other spheres, the standardization of high aesthetics had both positive and negative aspects. The negative ones, including the infamous "Orthodoxy, Autocracy and Nationality", are widely known. People need to be reminded about the positive ones, which the Hermitage does regularly.
A guiding line for the Emperor, and following him for society, was to be Historicism – a fondness for a variety of historical styles and the inclusion of their elements and "archetypes" in the life and ways of 19th-century Russia. A fascination with history, of all kinds, but chiefly Western, made the Russian ruling and middle classes more connected with the centuries-long aesthetic tradition. We assimilated like our own Middle Ages, as it were, the Gothic and Renaissance, the age of Louis XVI, the Rococo, Turkish and Chinese tastes. All this was, of course, derivative and, probably quite rightly, evoked ridicule from posterity, and sometimes even among contemporaries. Still it did enrich life and it was this very process that by way of a reaction evoked an interest in our own, Russian traditions and the introduction of those into the realm of artistic creativity and artistic manufacturing. Historicism is akin to the Post-Modernism that we ourselves lived through quite recently. It also engaged in stylization imitating past eras and styles, but did so already with emphatic irony, replacing delight and admiration with ridicule and poking fun.
In both cases, however, we are dealing with the important process of assimilating cultural heritage in forms appropriate not only to palaces, but also to private homes. Our exhibition, to a large extent connected with the traditions of the Winter Palace, shows these two worlds – the court and society – well. The new rituals and traditions affected both major and minor things. Palatial style is grand and not very convenient; domestic living clearly strove after cosiness. It is no coincidence that in this era the most popular and diverse objects were various sorts of sofa, couch, ottomans and pouffes… The title of the exhibition is a quotation, somewhat ingenuous, but reflecting the essence. Style changes. Sometimes for Alexandrine Classicism to become the cosiness of Nicholas's time it was sufficient to embellish austere mahogany furniture with "gold" ornaments made of bronze or even papier-mâché. Another popular object was the lectern desk. Bureaucracy was striving to appear elegant.
When, many years ago, an exhibition about European Historicism was held in the Nicholas Hall, the idea came to mind as one looked at the exhibits that these were also the surroundings in which the Impressionists lived! Such was the daily existence of the people who revolutionized our view of the world. Furniture like that which is now on display in the Manege of the Small Hermitage surrounded Turgenev, Dostoyevsky, Tolstoy, Gogol, Leskov and the characters in their works. The words and the objects each make it possible to understand the other, and also the peculiarities of the Russian mentality and the spirit of Russian classical literature.
The symbols of that time are St Isaac's Cathedral, the Alexander Column and the Cottage Palace in Peterhof, the names: Montferrand, Stakenschneider, Thon, Gambs. It is a new interpretation of Antiquity, the Middle Ages, the Gothic, French courtliness, Chinese self-assurance, Ottoman and Persian luxury. It is a search for Russian roots.
Everything mentioned and much else besides is captured not only in the items in this exhibition, but also in the halls and in the architecture of the Winter Palace and the Hermitage. Our museum, which was reborn out of the ashes of the 1837 fire, is the most sublime monument from the age of Historicism.
It is not surprising that the Hermitage in particular is today once again reminding people of the charm of things that have been forgotten and were at one time considered unnecessary for further development.
In actual fact, everything contributes to development, even if that is not always realized by contemporaries or posterity.
Mikhail Piotrovsky
Director of the State Hermitage


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Mitchell Feinberg
- Yield
- Makes 8 servings
- Active Time
- 35 minutes
- Total Time
- 12 hours (includes freezing time)
- Honey mousse:
- 1 cup chilled heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/3 cup egg whites (from about 3 large eggs)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup coarsely chopped almonds, toasted, cooled (optional)
- Cookies:
- 1/3 cup (packed) golden brown sugar
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup unbleached all purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons chopped dried tart cherries
- 1/2 teaspoon finely grated orange peel
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of coarse kosher salt
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey
- For honey mousse:
- Using electric mixer, beat cream and honey in large bowl on low speed until honey dissolves. Increase speed and beat until peaks form. Using electric mixer with clean dry beaters, beat egg whites and pinch of salt in medium bowl until foamy. With mixer running, gradually beat in sugar, then beat until peaks form. Fold egg white mixture into cream mixture in 2 additions. Fold in almonds, if desired. Transfer to container, cover, and freeze overnight.
- For cookies:
- Preheat oven to 350°. Line 2 large baking sheets with foil. Mix first 7 ingredients in bowl. Stir butter and honey in another medium bowl. Add flour mixture; stir to blend (dough will be thin). Let stand at room temperature 20 minutes to thicken. DO AHEAD: Can be made 4 hours ahead. Cover; let stand at room temperature.
- Spoon dough by rounded teaspoonfuls onto prepared sheets, spacing apart (about 6 cookies per sheet). Bake until deep golden, lacy, and bubbling, 9 to 10 minutes. Cool cookies on sheet 5 minutes. Using thin metal spatula, transfer cookies to racks to cool. DO AHEAD: Can be made 3 days ahead. Store airtight at room temperature.
- Divide honey mousse among 8 shallow serving dishes. Garnish each serving with 1 cookie and serve, passing remaining cookies separately.
Related Video
Nutritional Info
- Calories304
- Carbohydrates33 g(11%)
- Fat19 g(29%)
- Protein3 g(6%)
- Saturated Fat11 g(53%)
- Sodium58 mg(2%)
- Polyunsaturated Fat1 g
- Fiber1 g(3%)
- Monounsaturated Fat6 g
- Cholesterol56 mg(19%)


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July 11, 2012
It has long been my desire that PCPartPicker be able to contribute to people in need. Not just help building a computer, but much more fundamental and significant needs such as access to clean, safe drinking water. If you are building your own computer, the odds are high that you have quick and easy access to clean water. Many people in developing countries are not so fortunate.
I've had many people ask if they can buy PCPartPicker t-shirts or stickers. I am pleased to announce that I am now selling PCPartPicker shirts, and that 100% of the proceeds benefit charity. I have chosen to support Charity:Water, a non-profit organization that provides clean, safe drinking water to people in developing countries. PCPartPicker will also contribute an additional $10 for each shirt, up to the first 200 sold. Stickers are on order, and should be available for sale in roughly a week. As with the t-shirts, 100% of the proceeds from sticker sales will be donated to charity.
You can find all of the PCPartPicker merchandise at the new PCPartPicker store. I am extremely excited to open it up, knowing that with your help we will be changing lives for many people in need.
- 96 months ago
- 1 point


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Baby brother
When his hopes of a career in the cockpit were dashed, Ralph Lellé obtained a private pilot license and painted a small plane in the Lufthansa colors. The airline has now made a dream of his come true at Frankfurt Airport.
If he hadn't been "slightly shortsighted," Ralph Lellé, 59, would probably have touched down at the world's major airports far more often. Here, in Hangar 7 of Cargo City Süd at Frankfurt Airport, he is awaiting the arrival of an Airbus A380. Lellé, gray-haired and in overalls and sneakers, is a real airplane nut. Growing up, he soon realized he wanted to fly for Lufthansa or float weightless for NASA – something like that. At local aviation shows, he loved watching the daredevils who crossed deserts or the Alps … The first moon landing had him glued to the television; Superman was one of his favorite comics and as a kid, he was fascinated by the thought of overcoming gravity.
Unfortunately, his eyesight was too poor for him to become a commercial pilot, so Ralph Lellé turned his obsession into a hobby. By the age of 30, he held licenses for controlled visual flying, stunt flying, and night and blind flying. Lellé has flown more than two dozen different types of aircraft and taken off and landed hundreds of times. He marks the airfields with pins on a map of the world. One place he is particularly proud of landing at is the former Meigs Fieldon a peninsula in Lake Michigan, near downtown Chicago, which closed in 2003.
"All I needed was an airplane without all the professional instruments, one I could fly without interference from anyone," he says. In 2014, Lellé discovered the prototype of a new class of aircraft that was subject to few legal requirements. Weighing just 120 kilos, it has a wingspan of nearly 8.5 meters and consists of little more than an airframe of steel tubing and plastic and detachable spar-and-rib wings with a white, blue and yellow coating of stretching lacquer. Lellé's flying club pals call it a "paper kite," but he proudly emblazoned the name Rebell on the wing.
The ultralight plane standing beside its owner in Frankfurt was developed by Roman Weller, who had previously built replicas of vintage Blériots and Fokkers, produced spare parts for the German Museum in Munich and supplied the controls for the record-breaking Solar Impulse. "He's a brilliant inventor," Lellé says.
Since March 2016, Lellé has flown more than 220 hours in his new plane. He raves about standing still in the air or even being blown backwards when a head wind is too strong. He demonstrates how he clamps the tail under his arm and simply drags the aircraft to its parking position. "If I were allowed to, I could take off here and be in the air before I got to the hangar door," he says. Judging by his laugh, he would probably circle the inside of the hangar a few times first before flying out of the door and disappearing into the blue.
With this model, flying is once again an adventure. And wherever Lellé lands, he draws onlookers like a magnet. They pose with the plane for selfies, admire its ash wood propeller, the cables in its hollow wings and the engine, which is barely more powerful than a lawnmower engine. Best of all: the logo incorporating the initials RL – a tribute to the famous Lufthansa crane.
And now here comes the mighty A380. Lellé stands on tiptoes, leans across the wings of his own plane and squints into the sunshine. A huge shadow rolls across the tarmac and the Queen of the Skies enters. Soon the two planes stand wing to wing. Lellé looks like a delighted schoolboy, but he would never trade his plane for its big brother. "You feel every thermal, every little bump on the runway and sail alone through the clouds. Where else can you fly like that today?" And unlike Lufthansa pilots, "I don't have to wear a tie in the cockpit!," he exclaims.


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Francisco and Milo – Humane Society Pets of the Week!
My husband recently discovered that one of our cats likes to drink his water with ice in it. Just like a person, he wants his summertime beverage to be cold. Now that he's been spoiled, you can find him by his water dish, meowing at me to save his water. Once he's given what he wants, life is good. Pets can be very much like people. We like to have our drinks a certain way, we like to sit in certain chairs in our house, and we like hanging out with our family. Some pets don't have a home or a family to call their own, and that's where you come in.
The Humane Society shelters pets, gets them the care they need, gives them the love they're craving, and does their best to place them in permanent homes. Whether you're looking for an lazy dog who prefers a quiet walk to play, or a cat who chases toys, chances are the Humane Society will have your perfect match.
Also, during the months of July and August, the Humane Society is working with a grant called "Beat the Heat." It allows people to bring in their pets to get the spayed or neutered for FREE. Pet overpopulation is a real issue, and with this grant, a few more pets can safely be altered, and their owners don't need to worry about shelling out money. If you're interested, call 940-723-7387 and ask for the HSWC grant.
May I present our pets of the week. If you'd like to see them in person or get more information on these pets or any other pets that the Humane Society has, check them out online here or call 940-855-4941. They're located at 4360 Old Iowa Park Road in Wichita Falls.
Francisco is a male puppy, and is a Shepherd/Akita mix. He's very playful and curious right now and loves to be around people. He's small right now but he'll grow to be medium sized, and would love to meet you. He's heartworm tested and on preventative, up-to-date on shots, dewormed, and microchipped. Check him out and chances are you'll fall in love. Just look at that face!
Milo is a medium sized, adult, male cat. He's really sweet and loves to play since he's only about a year old, but he's still laid back at the same time. He loves cuddling and getting scratches, and gets along well with other cats. He's been spayed, is up-to-date on shots, microchipped, and dewormed. Stop in to meet this pretty kitty and you'll see why he's so awesome!


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In the old days, if you wanted to stumble upon some archaeological treasure trove of historic artifacts, you would have to go out into the field and look around in person. These days? You can do it from your couch.
That's because over 2,000 potential archaeological sites in Saudi Arabia have been found using the latest and greatest in archaeological tools: Google Earth. David Kennedy from the University of Western Australia scanned 1240 square kilometers looking for sites, and he found plenty. He sent a friend in Saudi Arabia to check on a couple of the sites to verify that what he was finding was legit, and it appears to be the case. So much for adventure.
Via New Scientist


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Pierre's Costumes is a full-service costume and mascot shop servicing theatre, corporate, professional & public costume needs.
Whatever your costume or mascot need, we can help you. No project is too basic or complex for us to help.
Contact us and learn why our motto is: If we can't costume you, nobody can!


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i recently ordered coconut flour from tropical traditions and love it. if you decide to order from them you can use my id#5685168 as a referral and i think you get a free book :) side note- if you sign up for their emails they run specials all the time and you can get good discounts and offers as well as lots of other great products.
side note#2- anne bradshaw is giving away a 32 oz jar of coconut oil here:
so go sign up and get one! :)
anyways- so i made kelly's crust. and it was phenomenal. my non-gf husband described it as a "really really good pizza crust" but i really just loved the richness and savory flavor of it and it complemented the quiche well even though it was designed as a dessert crust. we might just have to try out a pizza on it sometime soon and see how it turns out...
i made a simple quiche using the veggies i had in the fridge, but of course you can add whatever you like. this is somewhat similar to my leek and asparagus crustless quiche/frittata
i only had 5 eggs left in the fridge, so you can also add more if you like. or some sort of meat if that's what you're into :)
Vegetable Quiche
(copied from the spunky coconut)
Quiche Filling
1/2 cup carrots chopped
7 stalks asparagus (or more)
2.5 cups fresh organic spinach leaves
1/2 cup red bell pepper chopped
1 tsp nutritional yeast
1/4 cup coconut milk drink or other dairy free alternative (almond, rice, etc.)
1 TBSP coconut oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
dash nutmeg
5 eggs (or more)
preheat the oven to 350.
heat coconut oil in pan and saute the bottom halves of the asparagus (cut into smaller pieces). reserve the top halves for the top of the quiche
add the carrots and saute for with the asparagus for a minute or so. add the seasonings. add the bell peppers. when the veggies have softened a bit add the spinach and mix for a few minutes until they are wilted.
pour the veggies into the crust and then add the eggs on top of the veggies. take the asparagus tops and make a design in the middle if you like (see picture).
Pin It Now!


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NanoDays 2011 kits shipped out!
On Friday the Science Museum of Minnesota shipped out 200 NanoDays 2011 kits to museums and research outreach centers throughout the United States! For those institutions awarded kits, your box should arrive shortly. Many thanks to all of those who have contributed their time and talents to producing these new kits. Also many thanks to all of our partners who have committed to hosting a NanoDays event this Spring.
We were able to fabricate a total of 200 physical NanoDays kits this year, but we had many more applicants.
For those institutions who were not awarded a physical kit, we will soon have all electronic files available and easily downloaded as a digital kit; click here to see most of the files already posted; the remaining files will be posted this week.