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What causes impotency?
Although impotency is often thought of as a condition caused by old age, it is in fact something that can be caused by a wide range of conditions, so much so that it is estimated that around 20 million men in the USA alone will suffer from impotency at some time in their life.
The condition (which is known medically as Erectile Dysfunction or ED) is defined as the inability to achieve or maintain an erection of the penis in order to enjoy satisfactory sexual intercourse. There are many reasons why such a condition might exist, but every cause can be classified under one of two headings. On the one hand, psychogenic impotence caused by mental or emotional factors, and on the other hand organic impotence, due to a physical cause, condition or
bodily malfunction.
One of the most common reasons for impotence is the natural advance of the years – which clearly represents an organic impotence problem, because no-one has (as yet) found a way to successfully prevent ageing. However, impotency can also be a result of the effects of stress (either physical or mental), excessive tiredness, depression (sometimes brought on by an inability to perform sexually) or over consumption of either alcohol or tobacco. Recreational drugs can be another potential cause.
It is also widely acknowledged that some men will suffer impotency as a result of the side-effects of pharmaceutical drugs that they are taking as a treatment for entirely unrelated medical conditions. All of these causes tend to be of a temporary nature, because in all these situations, the cause of the condition can be isolated – and that
means it can be treated as appropriate.
However, not every cause of impotency is going to be quite as temporary, as it can often be an unfortunate side-effect of more serious medical problems such as kidney disease, hardening of the arteries, diabetes, high blood pressure or a hormonal imbalance.
In any situation where the cause of impotence is physical (and especially in older men who are inevitably more likely to suffer from organic impotence), it is absolutely essential that a full medical evaluation is sought before any kind of impotence treatment (whether natural or drug based) is embarked upon. This evaluation should include a detailed cardiac assessment, measurements of both blood pressure and lipids, blood sugar tests, and a full assessment of current lifestyle.
In this 'current lifestyle' assessment, it is likely that your healthcare professional will look at and advise upon such considerations as weight control, sleep quality management, diet improvement and other similar lifestyle changes that could help to elevate your ability to achieve or maintain an erection.
The fact is, there are many poor health or lifestyle choices that we all make which can eventually increase the chances of suffering Erectile Dysfunction. These poor choices will adversely affect your overall body condition, and deteriorating sexual performance is often the result. For example, if you are seriously overweight, the chances of suffering ED
are significantly increased, and too much smoking or drinking is certainly not going to help. This is all exactly the kind of information your medical practitioner needs.
Armed with this information, it is likely that your doctor will be able to isolate the cause of your problem, and in most cases, something can be done to reverse it.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile Dysfunction


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Savings Experiment: Treating the High Cost of Prescription Drugs
www.Medtipster.com Source: WalletPop.com, by Barbara Thau – 2.15.2011
As the economy still muddles through a funk, the price of prescription drugs continues to soar. in fact, drug prices are the fastest growing chunk of consumers' healthcare expenses, according to the non-profit Families USA.
But there are myriad ways to meaningfully trim your prescription drug bill. From generic drugs to assistance programs — here's how to save on your meds — and do so safely.
Avoid Brand Names
To slash as much as 70% off the price of your medications, buy generic.
"If you are given a prescription for a brand name drug from your doctor, it's always good to ask, 'Is there a generic equivalent for this drug?' " says Jody Rohlena, senior editor at Consumer Reports' ShopSmart.
A recent report by Best Buy Drugs, a division of Consumers Union (Consumer Reports' parent company), examined the safety and effectiveness of prescription medications and found that generics are as safe and effective as brand names.
Tap Low-Cost Prescription Programs (Located On Medtipster.com)
Take advantage of the price war being waged among national discounters and supermarket chains for generic prescription medications.
Walmart, Target and Kroger charge $4 for a month's supply on hundreds of generic drugs. Some other options, recommends ShopSmart, include Costco, Kmart, Drugstore.com and Walgreens, which also run reputable and highly-affordable discount drug programs.
To save a few extra dollars, ask your doctor for 90-day prescriptions. Walmart, for example, offers $4 for a month's supply and $10 for a 90-day supply. With buying in bulk, the savings will add up as you fill more prescriptions and it will also save you trips to the drugstore.
'Splitting' the Cost
If you take prescription drugs to treat a chronic illness, you might be able to save money by splitting your pills — literally cutting them in half. With prescription medication costs soaring, many doctors are advising patients to do just that.
Pill-splitting can save money because pharmacies routinely charge roughly the same amount for a particular medication, regardless of the dose. But don't go it alone: It's crucial to consult your doctor about splitting your pills as not all medicines can be safely divided.
For example, a once-a-day drug may cost $100 for a month's supply in either a 100-milligram dose or a 50-mg dose. If your doctor prescribes the 50-mg pill, it will set you back $100. But if your doctor prescribes the 100-mg pill and instructs you to cut it in half, $100 will get you two months worth of the medication, according to The Shoppers Guide to Prescription Drugs: Pill Splitting, a report from Best Buy Drugs.
Pill-splitters cost between $5 and $10 and can be found in most drugstores.
Although the American Medical Association opposes the practice, they acknowledge that many pills can be split safely if done correctly, the Best Buy Drugs report says.
Ask for Help
If you're having trouble paying for medication, let your doctor know.
A physician can help spell out your options, such as financial help through your insurer, if you have one, and patient-assistance programs that you might qualify for.
Some pharmaceutical companies also provide free and low-cost medications to people who cannot afford to pay for medications.
RxAssist offers a database of such programs, as well as ways to manage your prescription drug expenses. DestinationRx is another source, with price comparison tools and guidance on drug-purchasing options.
Rx Savings for Seniors
The quest for affordable medication takes on a heightened sense of urgency when it comes to seniors: Most seniors are on a fixed income and are among the biggest consumers of prescription drugs, representing 34% of the prescriptions filled in the U.S., according to Families USA.
High costs mean that many seniors "have had to make some tough decisions in terms of taking their medicines," says David Allen, a spokesman for AARP.
Now the government is offering some relief. A provision in the new healthcare law is designed to take a bite out of what's known as "the doughnut hole," and over time close the coverage gap on prescription medications.
As things were last year, once seniors spent $2,830 on medication, they had to pay 100% for their prescriptions until they reached the $3,610 threshold — a financial hardship for many older Americans. Now, when they reach the $2,830 threshold, the government will chip in 50% of the cost for brand-name drugs and 7% for generics, Allen says. By 2020, the doughnut hole will cease to exist, says Allen.
If you're on Medicare, keep track of your particular prescription costs with AARP's Doughnut Hole Calculator.
Use it to alert you when you're nearing the coverage gap. It also will offer a list of alternative, lower-cost drugs based on your prescription drug profile that you can take to your doctor to discuss whether switching to a lower-cost drug will work for you.
In addition, AARP provides a handy Drug Savings Tool link where consumers can compare a drug's efficacy and price against alternative medications listed by Best Buy Drugs.
Buyer Beware: Pharmacy Fraud
Pharmacy fraud is alive and well and living on the Internet. Scam artists are there seeking money, or personal information to commit identity theft.
These types of predators mostly hunt their prey online, says Sally Hurme, senior product manager of education and outreach for AARP, who tracks pharmacy scams that target the entire drug-purchasing population.
When an online offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. An email offer for prescription medications at bargain basement prices (that does not come directly from a well-known retailer or your health insurance company) is most likely a scam, Hurme says. And email that says "Viagra for $10″ or "Prilosec for $5," for example, should go right in your email trash — chances are that it will wind up in your spam folder anyway.
Scam artists often masquerade as online pharmacists. They woo consumers to pay upfront in exchange for a supposed drug discount card. Shoppers who "order" their medications receive nothing at all, or drugs that are compromised in some way — be they expired or at the wrong dosage.
Be skeptical. Before filling a prescription online, be sure that the pharmacy requires a doctor's prescription. And never provide your personal information — such as your Social Security number, credit card or health history — to a website unless you've verified that it's secure, says AARP.

subset: commoncrawl


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Right now, 6:30 AM EST, The Flying Pig Marathon & Half Marathon are starting. I was supposed to be running the full marathon today, but my body ( God and the universe) had other plans. Not only that, but I truly believe there is a reason for everything. While I was extremely bummed out at first when I made the decision to not run 26.2, that feeling was quickly replaced with the feeling of relief. The stress I was under to rehab the injury(ies) that I was trying to overcome and still continue to meet the demands of my training schedule, PT at the PT office, PT at home, icing and taking care of my family was not worth it. The joy of running was gone.
Since I have modified my training plan and set my sights on a new race, a half marathon on May 7, 2011, I have felt so much better. My attitude towards everyone & everything is back to the way I like it to be – positive! The joy of running has returned.
I want to take this moment to wish all of the people who are running The Flying Pig (full or half marathon) today the best of luck! I wish I was out there with you all, but it wasn't meant to be. I can't wait to track some of my friends who are racing not only this race, but others today as well. Get out there & have fun!!
For more, please visit www.glutenfreeislife.com


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Campaigners fighting against plans to build a wind farm in West Huntspill have won after the plans were thrown out by the Planning Inspectorate.
An application by Ecotricity for four 120m turbines on land south of Poplar Farm, known as Black Ditch, was rejected by Sedgemoor councillors last April.
Ecotricity appealed against the decision but today had their appeal rejected by the Planning Inspectorate.
Ian Liddell-Grainger, MP for Bridgwater, said: "It's very good news indeed because it's the right decision.
"It was in a ridiculous place and local people quite rightly have had their say. It's a job well done and congratulations to all those people for keeping up the fight."
Ecotricity have six weeks to make a High Court challenge against the Secretary of State's decision if they feel sufficiently aggrieved and have valid grounds to do so.


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The Rangers (6-5) won their second straight while the Bears (7-6) suffered their first home loss of the season and saw their four-game streak halted.
Louison's 30-point game on 12-of-20 shooting was one point shy of his career-best and one rebound shy of his 30th career double-double. Michael Megafu (Brooklyn/Nazareth Regional) recorded his eighth double-double of the season with 12 points and 12 rebounds.
Ian Duff (Jamaica/Christ the King) chipped in 13 points in a reserve role and Vernon Maddox (Staten Island/St. Peter's) had 12 points and six assists.
Drew also placed four in double figures led by Mike Klinger who shared game-high honors with Louison, posting 30 points on 11-of-16 shooting and 6-of-9 from behind-the-arc.
The visitors shot a blistering 63.3 percent (19-30) in the opening half – including 7-of-12 from three-point land – and never trailed, leading by as many as 10 midway through the period, but the Bears whittled away at the deficit to a single point before a Rangers basket just before the buzzer sent them into the break up 46-41.
After the Rangers got the opening basket of the second stanza, the Bears used a 9-0 run over two minutes to take their first lead of the contest and led for most of the second half of the game. The Bears built as large as a 12-point advantage with 4:52 remaining and seemed in control of the contest when the Rangers staged a late comeback scoring the final 15 points of the contest to come away with the win.


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Lots of digital ink has been spilled this week over the Freedom of Choice Act, which was a major concern of the U.S. bishops at their fall general meeting earlier this month. Among those weighing in were CNS clients like the National Catholic Register (here and here) and the National Catholic Reporter (here), plus other Catholic and secular sites (here, here, and here).
We have our own ink spill today with this backgrounder and analysis, FOCA's effects seen as dire, but chance of it passing considered slim, which includes comments from people on several sides of the issue.


text: Osaka Down to earth and delightfully inviting, get ready to be immersed in the charming culture and life of Osaka, especially the food! Rated as the world's greatest food city by The Guardian UK, Osaka certainly packs a good punch when it comes to delicacies that will satisfy the tummy. So much so that one may even commit Kuidaore - local lingo for 'eat till you drop' - as the delightful smells of takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (pan-fried batter cake), udon (Japanese noodles) and other traditional Japanese culinary linger along the streets of this city. Shopping is a great pull with the many shopping districts to explore! Top 5 Must Do's Osaka Castle Explore the intricate beauty of one of Japan's most famous castles that was built in 1583. This symbol of Osaka is especially beautiful during spring when the cherry blossoms bloom. Kaiyukan Aquarium Be amazed by sheer size of the aquarium that houses marine animals including sea otters, dolphins, turtles, penguins and its star attraction—the majestic whale shark named Yu-chan. Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel Hop on the giant Ferris wheel and take in the magnificent view of Osaka which is especially beautiful at night as the city lights come to life! Shinsaibashi Shopping Street The city's main shopping area covers everything from famous brands to boutique designers! Visit the famous Dotonbori where you'll spot the Glico man amongst the many eateries. Osaka Takoyaki Museum Satisfy takoyaki cravings at this unique museum, built to commemorate Osaka as the birthplace of this delicious delicacy. To and from airport Transportation Availability Fare Train (Kansai Airport line) Every half hour 1,160 Yen Bus (SBS Transit No.36) All day 1,500 Yen Taxi All day Starts from 20,000 Yen Your awesome getaway awaits you right here! Book now Quick Facts Currency Japanese Yen (JPY) Electricity 100V 60Hz Language Japanese Time zone UTC +9 Tel code +81 Religion Shinto, Buddhism Weather DEC - FEB Winter 9°C - 12°C Don't forget your winter coat - it's going to be freezing! MAR - MAY Spring 13°C - 24°C Great time for sightseeing as cherry blossoms bloom beautifully around the city JUN - AUG Summer 27°C - 33°C Bring sunglasses and a hat and make sure to drink lots of water SEP - NOV Autumn 17°C - 29°C Expect plenty of rain so bring an umbrella or a raincoat View how you can fly in with our interactive map! Map it out Check out these other destinations! Australia Gold Coast Melbourne Sydney Cambodia Siem Reap China Changsha Hangzhou Kunming Shanghai Wuhan Xi'An Hong Kong Hong Kong India Kochi Indonesia Bali Bandung Jakarta Solo Yogyakarta Japan Osaka Tokyo Malaysia Kota Kinabalu Kuala Lumpur Kuching Langkawi Miri Penang Myanmar Mandalay Nepal Kathmandu Singapore Singapore South Korea Busan Taiwan Taipei Thailand Bangkok Chiang Mai Krabi Phuket Surat Thani Vietnam Hanoi Ho Chi Minh City


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Festival del Sole Patron Dinner at Odette EstateJuly 26th, 2015
Dennis Calas, show more of Dennis Calas photos or correct name Lorna Meyer Calas show more of Lorna Meyer Calas photos or correct name
Perfect for printing with no watermark up to 8x12. If you need something larger, we can usually do a custom print.
Perfect for screen and social, but not great to print. There is a small watermark in the lower right corner (you can crop it out).
For a commercial or editorial license, please email firstname.lastname@example.com.


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- soudou
- Mentor
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MEGA Download
Guest: 大仁田厚 (Atsushi Onita), former politician who became a professional wrestler and actor known for his work in Martial Arts Wrestling.
Housei seems to offer himself up again for a wrestling session but backs out after the guy is concerned he'd seriously injure him.
Comedy Brain Battle Notes:
From this episode on, instead of trying to guess the answer of one of the cast, they bring in a guest for them to guess the answer of.
--------------> Compilation Thread Link < | >Housei Tumblr <


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Certain topics come up often on TubeNet. Please check the following links before making a new post about one of these issues to see if the information you seek is already here.
Chinese Tubas
Discussions of tubas sold by Big Mouth Brass, John Packer, M & M, Mack Brass, Schiller, Tempest Agility, Wessex, Wiseman, and others.
Buying a Tuba for College
Discussions of buying a tuba for college ("Ask your teacher!"), and some discussion of where to go to college to study tuba.
Lacquer v. Silver v. Raw Brass
Discussions of the relative merits of silver, lacquer, and raw brass finishes.
Piston v. Rotary Valves
Discussions of the pros and cons of these valve mechanisms.
Mouthpiece Buzzing
Discussions about whether and how buzzing the embouchure away from the instrument is or is not helpful.
BBb or CC?
Discussions of the relative merits of these contrabass tubas.
Eb or F?
Discussions of the relative merits of these bass tubas.
Tuba Mouthpiece Shank Sizes
Information on the various sizes of tuba mouthpiece shanks and receivers.


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- The Global Economy
- The Fund in 1992/93
- toggleAppendices
- APPENDIX I International Reserves
- APPENDIX II Operations and Financial Transactions of the Fund
- APPENDIX III Technical Assistance and Training, Relations with Other International Organizations, External Relations, and Staffing Issues
- APPENDIX IV Principal Policy Decisions of the Executive Board
- APPENDIX V Press Communiqués of the Interim Committee and the Development Committee
- APPENDIX VI Executive Directors and Voting Power on April 30, 1993
- APPENDIX VII Changes in Membership of Executive Board
- APPENDIX VIII Administrative and Capital Budgets
- APPENDIX IX Financial Statements
- Back Matter
Front Matter
- International Monetary Fund
- Published Date:
- January 1993
Annual Report, 1993
International Standard Serial Number: ISSN 0250-7498
International Monetary Fund
700 19th Street, N.W., Washington D.C. 20431, U.SA
Tel: (202) 623–7430 Telefax (202) 623–7201
- Letter of Transmittal
- Meeting the Challenge of a Global Monetary Order
- The Global Economy
- Economic Situation
- Trade Policy Developments
- World Economic Outlook
- The Fund in 1992/93
- Surveillance
- Biennial Review of Surveillance
- Article IV Consultations
- Industrial Countries
- Smaller Industrial Countries
- Developing Countries
- Economies in Transition
- International Capital Markets
- International Liquidity and the SDR Mechanism
- Fund Financial Support of Member Countries
- Access Policy
- Representation of Member Countries
- Systemic Transformation Facility
- Compensatory and Contingency Financing Facility
- Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility
- Economic Reform and the Poor
- Policies in Member Countries
- Financing for Developing Countries and Their Debt Situation
- Technical Assistance and Training
- Fund Financial Operations and Policies
- Membership and Quotas
- Fund Liquidity, Borrowing, and Members' Access
- Financial Operations
- Fund Income, Charges, and Burden Sharing
- Overdue Financial Obligations
- SDR Department
- SDR Valuation and Interest Rate Basket
- SDR Transfers
- Pattern of SDR Holdings
- Surveillance
- Boxes
- 1. Discrepancies in Global Balance of Payments Statistics
- 2. Uruguay Round
- 3. Board of Governors, Executive Board, Interim Committee, and Development Committee
- 4. Economic and Monetary Union in Europe
- 5. Current Account Convertibility
- 6. Scope of Article IV Consultations
- 7. Statistical Methodology
- 8. Fund Facilities and Policies
- 9. Operational Budget
- 10. General Arrangements to Borrow
- Tables
- 1. Overview of the World Economy
- 2. Article IV Consultations Concluded in 1992/93
- 3. Access Limits Under IMF Arrangements, Special Facilities, and in Connection with Augmentation for Debt and Debt-Service Reduction
- 4. Selected Financial Indicators
- 5. Arrears to the Fund of Members with Obligations Overdue by Six Months or More
- 6. Arrears to the Fund of Members with Obligations Overdue by Six Months or More, by Type and Duration, as of April 30, 1993
- 7. SDR Valuation Basket
- 8. Transfers of SDRs, January 1, 1970–April 30, 1993
- Charts
- 1. Industrial Countries: Unemployment Rates
- 2. Major Industrial Countries: Real GDP
- 3. Developing Countries and Regions: Consumer Prices
- 4. Developing Countries: External Debt and Debt Service
- 5. Countries in Transition: External Debt and Debt Service
- 6. Indicators Related to Article IV Consultations
- 7. Article IV Consultations Concluded by the Executive Board
- 8. The Fund's Liquidity Ratio
- 9. General Resources: Purchases and Repurchases, Financial Years Ended April 30, 1981–93
- 10. Total Fund Credit Outstanding to Members, Financial Years Ended April 30, 1981–93
- Appendices
- I. International Reserves
- II. Operations and Financial Transactions of the Fund
- III. Technical Assistance and Training, Relations with Other International Organizations, External Relations, and Staffing Issues
- IV. Principal Policy Decisions of the Executive Board
- V. Press Communiqués of the Interim Committee and the Development Committee
- VI. Executive Directors and Voting Power on April 30, 1993
- VII. Changes in Membership of the Executive Board
- VIII. Administrative and Capital Budgets
- IX. Financial Statements
- Glossary
The following symbols have been used in this Report:
- … to indicate that data are not available;
- — to indicate that the figure is zero or less than half the final digit shown or that the item does not exist;
- – between years or months (e.g., 1991–92 or January–June) to indicate the years or months covered, including the beginning and ending years of months;
- / between years (e.g., 1992/93) to indicate a crop or fiscal (financial) year.
"Billion" means a thousand million.
Minor discrepancies between constituent figures and totals are due to rounding.
All references to dollars are to U.S. dollars unless otherwise noted.
International Monetary Fund
Managing Director and Chairman of the Executive Board
Michel Camdessus
Deputy Managing Director
Richard D. Erb
|Executive Directors
|Alternate Executive Directors
|Thomas C. Dawson II
|Stefan Schoenberg
|Bernd Esdar
|Hiroo Fukui
|Naoki Tabata
|Jean-Pierre Landau
|Isabelle Martel
|David Peretz
|John Dorrington
|Jacques de Groote
|Johann Prader
|Godert A. Posthumus
|Oleh Havrylyshyn
|Roberto Marino
|Gerver Torres
|Giulio Lanciotti
|loannis Papadakis
|Douglas E. Smee
|Garrett F. Murphy
|Ingimundur Fridriksson
|Jon A. Solheim
|Muhammad Al-Jasser
|Abdulrahman Al-Tuwaijri
|Ewen L. Waterman
|Amando M. Tetangco, Jr.
|A. Shakour Shaalan
|Yacoob Yousef Mohammed
|Konstantin G. Kagalovsky
|Aleksei V. Mozhin
|Daniel Kaeser
|Krzysztof Link
|J. E. Ismael
|Kleo-Thong Hetrakul
|Abbas Mirakhor
|Omar Kabbaj
|Alexandre Kafka
|Juan Carlos Jaramillo
|K. P. Geethakrishnan
|L. Eustace N. Fernando
|L. J. Mwananshiku
|Barnabas S. Dlamini
|Zhang Ming
|WEI Benhua
|A. Guillermo Zoccali
|Alberto F. Jiménez de Lucio
|Corentino V. Santos
|Yves-Marie T. Koissy
Senior Officers
Sterie T. Beza*
Michael Mussa*
Economic Counsellor
Mamoudou TourÉ*
Leo Van Houtven*
Graeme F. Rea
Administration Department
Mamoudou TourÉ
African Department
Hubert Neiss
Central Asian Department
Massimo Russo
European I Department
John Odling-Smee
European II Department
Shailendra J. Anjaria
External Relations Department
Vito Tanzi
Fiscal Affairs Department
Patrick B. de Fontenay
IMF Institute
François P. Gianviti
General Counsel Legal Department
Paul Chabrier
Middle Eastern Department
J. B. Zulu
Monetary and Exchange Affairs Department
John T. Boorman
Policy Development and Review Department
Michael Mussa
Research Department
Leo Van Houtven
Secretary's Department
Kunio Saito
Southeast Asia and Pacific Department
John B. McLenaghan
Statistics Department
David Williams
Treasurer's Department
Sterie T. Beza
Western Hemisphere Department
Warren N. Minami
Bureau of Computing Services
Patrick Delannoy
Bureau of Language Services
Joaquín Ferrán
Office in Europe (Paris)
Helen B. Junz
Director and Special TradeRepresentative
Office in Geneva
Lindsay A. Wolfe
Office of Budget and Planning
Marcello Caiola
Office of Internal Audit and Review
Ian S. McDonald
Chief Editor
July 15, 1993
Alphabetical Listing
Letter of Transmittal to the Board of Governors
August 9, 1993
Dear Mr. Chairman:
I have the honor to present to the Board of Governors the Annual Report of the Executive Board for the financial year ended April 30, 1993, in accordance with Article XII, Section 7(a) of the Articles of Agreement of the International Monetary Fund and Section 10 of the Fund's By-Laws. In accordance with Section 20 of the By-Laws, the administrative and capital budgets of the Fund approved by the Executive Board for the financial year ending April 30, 1994 are presented in Appendix VIII. The audited financial statements for the year ended April 30, 1993 of the General Department, the SDR Department, accounts administered by the Fund, the Staff Retirement Plan, and the Supplemental Retirement Plan, together with reports of the External Audit Committee thereon, are presented in Appendix IX.
Yours sincerely,
Michel Camdessus
Chairman of the Executive Board
Chairman of the Board of Governors
International Monetary Fund
Meeting the Challenge of a Global Monetary Order
During 1992/93, the Fund met new challenges and acted decisively to provide policy advice and financial and technical assistance to meet the urgent needs of its increasingly diverse membership. The scope and extent of its operations expanded significantly, and for the first time the institution was close to achieving the universality of membership that was a goal of its founding fathers almost fifty years ago. During the financial year, membership rose to 177 from 157. At the end of the financial year the membership applications of a further three countries were pending. (One of these countries, Micronesia, joined the Fund in June 1993.)
The Fund's activities took place against the backdrop of a world economic environment marked by continuing difficulties. Although, overall, global economic activity recovered slightly, this recovery was below expectations and was characterized by a persistence of low or negative growth in most industrial countries, together with high levels of unemployment and continuing structural impediments to growth. Among the industrial countries, while there were signs of a gradual recovery in the United States and Canada, growth declined in Japan, and most countries in Europe experienced economic stagnation or decline. Despite the weak performance of the industrial countries, the economic situation brightened in many developing countries in Asia—particularly in the newly industrializing economies of Southeast Asia—in the Middle East, and many countries in the Western Hemisphere. By contrast, economic growth weakened further in much of Africa.
In view of the continuing problems affecting the world economy, the Interim Committee of the Fund's Board of Governors at the end of April 1993 issued a declaration calling for a global cooperative effort to bolster confidence and strengthen prospects for a durable, noninflationary expansion of the world economy. The Committee added that the immediate and urgent need to conclude successfully the Uruguay Round of multilateral trade negotiations was crucial for increasing world prosperity.
The Committee underscored the Fund's vital role as the central international monetary institution. It emphasized that, in the face of the challenges of an increasingly integrated world economy, the Fund's effective surveillance over exchange rates and macroeconomic policies had become even more important. It pledged its support for the steps agreed by the Executive Board to strengthen this surveillance, including regional developments, in order promptly to identify and address problems that may give rise to tensions in the world economy and undesirable volatility in exchange rates.
During the year, the Fund continued to play a central role in the massive undertaking of supporting the transformation of the former centrally planned economies into market-based systems. A first credit tranche arrangement was approved for the Russian Federation, as well as upper credit tranche arrangements for each of the Baltic states and for many of the members in Central and Eastern Europe whose economies are in transition.
In recognition of the unique challenges facing the economies in transition, the Fund established in April 1993 a temporary systemic transformation facility (STF). This facility is designed to provide financing to members facing balance of payments difficulties arising from severe disruptions in their trade and payments arrangements owing to a shift from major reliance on trading at nonmarket prices to multilateral, market-based trade. Such members include those at the early stages of transition that have been unable, as yet, to formulate programs that the Fund could support under its existing lending facilities. Members using the facility will undertake to move rapidly toward policies that could subsequently be supported under stand-by, extended Fund facility, or enhanced structural adjustment facility (ESAF) arrangements. In May 1993, in conjunction with a stand-by arrangement with the Fund, Kyrgyzstan made the first purchase (for SDR 16 million) under this facility. Russia made a purchase (for SDR 1,078 million) in early July.
Among developing countries, a number have seen an improvement in economic conditions as a result of determined adjustment efforts to promote growth and introduce far-reaching structural reforms, often with financial and technical support from the Fund. Many others, however, still face difficult economic situations and must undertake major policy adjustments. The ESAF has proved to be effective in helping the low-income countries to implement comprehensive macroeconomic and structural policy programs in order to strengthen their balance of payments positions, foster growth, and attract external financing. Recognizing the effectiveness and importance of this concessional support, the Board agreed in April 1993 that a successor to the ESAF should be introduced in a timely manner for an additional period to provide continuity after the current cutoff date for commitments of November 1993.
To serve the needs of an expanding world economy, a substantial increase in Fund quotas became effective in November 1992. This increase, together with the quotas of new members, raised total Fund quotas by almost 60 percent, to SDR 144.6 billion at the end of April 1993, compared with SDR 91.2 billion at the end of April 1992. The initial quotas of new members that have joined the Fund since April 30, 1992, account for SDR 6.2 billion of the quota increase. The Fund's policy on access to its resources was reviewed by the Board in October 1992 in connection with the quota increase, and new access limits were established that were intended broadly to maintain potential access for the members.
In October 1992, the Board renewed the General Arrangements to Borrow for a five-year period from December 26, 1993, and approved an amendment to the arrangements to reflect Switzerland's membership in the Fund.
During 1992/93, the Board considered on two occasions the possible need for an allocation of SDRs and related issues. At a meeting in April 1993, the Board examined the long-term need to supplement existing reserve assets, the size of a possible SDR allocation, and issues regarding a post-allocation redistribution of SDRs. At that meeting, the broad support necessary for a new allocation was lacking. At the end of the month, the Interim Committee also had an exchange of views on the question of an SDR allocation. In its communiqué, it requested the Board to assess the long-term global need for a reserve asset supplement, the potential economic and monetary effects of an allocation, and the future of the SDR as a reserve asset. The Committee asked that a report on this work be submitted to it at its next meeting in September 1993.
With the continued implementation of the cooperative strategy to assist members to progress toward eliminating their overdue obligations to the Fund, the level of such arrears declined in 1992/93 for the first time since 1982, and one member was able to eliminate its protracted arrears to the Fund. The Third Amendment to the Fund's Articles of Agreement also came into force during the year. This allows for the suspension of voting and related rights of a member that persists in its failure to fulfill its obligations under the Articles, including a failure to settle its overdue financial obligations.
The scope and extent of the Fund's technical assistance and training activities continued to expand. This growth resulted from the increase in membership and the concomitant rise in the number of countries requiring technical assistance services from the Fund. In August 1992, a Technical Assistance Secretariat was set up within the Fund to provide a focal point for such activities and to coordinate technical assistance services both within the Fund and with other agencies.
The expansion of the Fund's membership and financial operations also necessitated an increase in the ceiling of the institution's regular staff, to more than 2,100, as well as the reorganization of some operational departments to adapt to the changing needs of member countries.


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Marvelous Entertainment
Tokyo International Forum presentations for Soul Sacrifice released
Studio Japan along with Keiji Inafune and Marvelous presented the Vita title Soul Sacrifice to the media during the Tokyo International Forum. The presentation is posted below in three videos courtesy of AGB. Game's expected to release this winter in Japan.
Marvelous Entertainment headlines
Soul Sacrifice takes place inside a book filled with monsters that were once human
More information on Keiji Inafune and Marvelous Entertainment's Soul Sacrifice has trickled out of the ether, and according to Gematsu, the Vita title takes place inside a demonic book.
Thursday Shorts II: Borderlands 75% off, Beyond the Labyrinth, Wing Commander
It's shorts time again. Get the sweet little stuff below.
Marvelous to support NGP with multiple titles this fiscal year
In its latest financial report, Marvelous Entertainment detailed its support plans for NGP over the course of its current fiscal year.
Japanese retailer lists Hero 30 Second for August release
A retailer in Japan has listed a new August 4 release date for Marvelous' Hero 30 Second, the sequel to Half-Minute Hero on PSP.
Tuesday Shorts: GagaVille, Soul Calibur breasts, Thor, Nolan North, Portal turret
Some things you just cannot make up no matter how hard you try. There's a few of those in the shorts posted below.
Marvelous: "No plans to release," Arc Rise Fantasia in Europe
A representative for Marvelous Entertainment has revealed that the firm's Arc Rise Fantasia developed by imageepoch will not be releases in Europe.
First trailer for Night of the Sacrifice released
The first video for Marvelous Entertainment's "Ikenie no Yoru", or Night of the Sacrifice, has hit Famitsu and we've got a trailer in YouTube form for you below.
Harvest Moon, Little King's Story creators jump ship to Grasshopper
Japanese game development is dead, huh?Try telling that to these guys.
Four new videos for Muramasa: The Demon Blade released
Four different videos have popped up for Marvelous Entertainment's Muramasa: The Demon Blade.Based on ancient Japanese lore, the game drops players into the Genroku era, ruled by shogun Tsunayoshi, whose desire for power leads to a conflict over the Demon Blades.The hand-drawn 2D Wii exclusive is slated for a July 31 release.One video is posted […]
Marvelous Entertainment site counts down to something
The Marvelous Entertainment Japanese website is counting down to something. As the developer is most famous for its work on Harvest Moon, we're guessing that it's got something to do with that.Oh well, only another 19 and a half thousand seconds until we find out.We'll keep you posted.By Mike Bowden
Marvelous Entertainment latest
Tokyo International Forum presentations for Soul Sacrifice released
Soul Sacrifice takes place inside a book filled with monsters that were once human
Thursday Shorts II: Borderlands 75% off, Beyond the Labyrinth, Wing Commander
Marvelous to support NGP with multiple titles this fiscal year
Tuesday Shorts: GagaVille, Soul Calibur breasts, Thor, Nolan North, Portal turret
Marvelous: "No plans to release," Arc Rise Fantasia in Europe
Harvest Moon, Little King's Story creators jump ship to Grasshopper


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Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Release: Unemployment in States and Local Areas (all other areas)
This series is calculated by FRB-St. Louis using data series from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The FRB-St. Louis District includes all of Arkansas and portions of six other states: Missouri, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana and Illinois.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Civilian Labor Force for all Illinois counties in FRB-St. Louis District (DISCONTINUED) [DILLFN], retrieved from FRED, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis; https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/DILLFN, May 29, 2020.


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With the recent projection that telemedicine will reach 1.8 million patients worldwide by 2017, I think it's fitting to continue the discussion I started last week pertaining to the current ROI of EMRs. While current utilization based on scrambling to meet Meaningful Use for federal incentives may not be all it's cracked up to be, I do believe EMRs will ultimately provide a fiscally sensible return on investment, especially if telemedicine technology becomes part of any given vendor's standard EMR package/offering.
I decided to bounce the idea off Sande Olson, a Twitter friend (@sandeolson) and Senior Healthcare Consultant at Olson & Associates. Being a healthcare professional that has worked in telemedicine long enough to witness its evolution, Olson seemed a fitting expert to speak with on the subject of EMRs, telemedicine and the bottom line.
How have you seen the telemedicine landscape change over the last few years?
Olson: Until recently, telemedicine has been a niche industry. Early users recognized the potential value of telemedicine, but successful business models (showing a viable ROI) didn't exist, and technology was costly. The challenge was reimbursement; who was going to pay for it? Without reimbursement or a viable business model, telemedicine could not go viral.
The telemedicine landscape began to change with advancements in information and communication technology on the heels of The Affordable Care Act. The push for healthcare reform provided financial incentives to "nudge" healthcare providers towards EMRs. Reform mandates and the availability of government funding created new opportunities around technology. Telemedicine, a valuable if fledgling technology, became a buzzword around technology and healthcare reform.
Industries saw business opportunity as solution providers for an "industry poised to undergo radical change." Entrepreneurs, inventors, investors and healthcare visionaries followed new and sometimes disruptive ideas. Care delivery tools moved from PCs to tablets, along with mobile apps.
The confluence of all these influencers is creating a potential tipping point for telemedicine; it only needs wider reimbursement and licensure portability. Our aging population and forecasted physician shortage will help continue to thrust telemedicine into the forefront of change. Telemedicine is already being used successfully; reimbursement is still a challenge. But, healthcare innovation is just getting started. We have challenging times ahead, but this is also the most exciting time to be in healthcare ever!
Do you think there's been a trickle down effect from the Affordable Care Act in terms of increasing interest in and adoption of telemedicine?
There has been a trickle-down effect on telemedicine. The Affordable Care Act has increased interest in exploring the possibilities of telemedicine outside of previous niche markets. As I noted, it is the confluence of influencers around healthcare reform that continues to push the tipping point for telemedicine.
Do you think EMRs will prove their worth in the coming years by better facilitating more novel methods of healthcare delivery, like telemedicine, or integrating with consumer-friendly mobile health apps?
Will EMRs prove their worth? Well, data silos do not support healthcare's philosophy of providing a continuum of care from cradle to grave. And, you cannot provide care without a medical record; you can't measure outcomes. So, interoperability– across all silos– is critical to successful healthcare reform. EMRs today may fall a bit short, but they will create efficiencies and improve patient outcomes. They will get simpler to use. EMRs will assist in improving reimbursement and revenue cycles. And, future EMRs will push and pull data from HIEs, PHRs and mobile health apps; we are just not there yet.


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Drought Ends Dramatically
What a time to bust one.
Homerless in September and scuffling at the plate, Howard delivered a two-out, two-run, game-winning blast in the top of the ninth inning to turn a sure defeat into a one-run win on Wednesday night, a night in which the Phillies had three runs and three hits.
From Elias: Howard had been hitless in his previous 19 at-bats against left-handed pitchers, the longest such drought within one season of his major-league career. He also snapped the longest home run drought of his major league career. Howard had not homered in his previous 67 at-bats prior to his ninth-inning blast.
J-Roll started the game with another home run (fourth pitch) and the Phillies didn't get another hit until Mayberry's one-out single in the eighth. Chase had a great at-bat and worked a walk. Howard hit the second pitch off the facing of the upper deck.
Horst got an inning-ending double play with the bases loaded in the eighth to keep it at 2-1 for New York.
The lead-off homer was the sixth for J-Roll this season. Club record is nine in 2007 by you know who. Six is now second best. Next on the list is five by you know who. At one time the club record was four by Juan Samuel (1989) and matched by Lenny Dykstra (1993). J-Roll joined that party of four three times.
It was his seventh homer this month. Club record for September is 11, Howard in 2007 and 2008.
Clemente Award
J-Roll is the Phillies nomination for the annual Roberto Clemente Award. He will be recognized pre-game on Sunday.
Winner will be announced during the World Series. Fans can vote at www.MLB.com/Clemente/Award.
Two Phillies have won the award, Greg Luzinski in 1978 and Garry Maddox in 1986.
Chipper's Last Visit
Braves 3B Chipper Jones makes his final Philly visit this weekend. Phillies will present him with a gift pre-game on Friday. J-Roll and Chase will make the presentation.
Chipper will be a sure-bet first-ballot Hall of Famer some day.
Who's Gavvy?
Check out www.phillies.com/alumni for the Past Profile feature.


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Howdy do to all my blogging buddies. Hope you are all having a great day. Only two more days until the weekend so hang in there! Here we are again at Rachael Ray Wednesday. I searched for a bit and came up with Spanish Style Pork Chops with Chorizo and Roasted Red Pepper Sauce and Green Beans. MMmmmmm sounded soooo good to me.
My whole family loves chorizo, we lived in Southern California for most of my kids' lives, as well as my own. So chorizo and egg burritos on the weekends were something we all looked forward to. We are trying to initiate Kevin into the burrito fan club. You know the whole if you mix just about anything with eggs, cheese, and hot sauce, it goes great in burrito line of thinking? So far he is not buying it, but I am not giving up!
So we got the chorizo cooking and immediately I am happy with the smells coming from my kitchen. Then you blend the roasted red pepper sauce in the food processor and YUMMM it just made my mouth water. Kevin even said it smelled terrific.
I did stick right to the recipe on this one, believe it or not! The only thing is I feel I over salted a bit. I didn't take into account the salt in the chorizo, so make sure you taste the final sauce before you salt.
I was lucky that my grocery store had preground chorizo in their meat case. If your grocery store doesn't carry Spanish chorizo you could substitute the Mexican chorizo, just be aware that Mexican chorizo is fattier and melts into a sauce really, not like ground meat. You also could use linguica.
I did the pork chops in a cast iron skillet and transfered them to the oven like it called for. But I feel the chops were a bit overdone going by the times listed in the recipe. Kevin felt the same, but Seth said he felt they were just fine. Jessi by the way wouldn't even eat them so we have no input from Miss Picky Pants. I mentioned to the family that I felt it was over salted but again the kiddo told me he thought it was really good.
I am currently trying to think up a recipe I can incorporate the sauce minus the chorizo in. I can say I think the pork chops should be cooked less time. I did get the inch and a half thick pork chops but it was just too much time. It would definitely be too much time for a thinner chop. We also felt the green beans should be cooked a couple of minutes longer.
Here is the finished product. I love it when you can see the steam coming off the plate.
- 2 tablespoons EVOO, plus some for drizzling
- 4 1 1/2 inch thick boneless center cut pork chops
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (half a palmful)
- salt
- pepper
- 1/4 pound chorizo, casing removed, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped (from about 4 good sized sprigs)
- 1 16 ounce jar of roasted red peppers, drained
- 1/2 cup flay leaf parsley leaves (a couple of generous handfuls)
- 1/4 dry sherry or dry white wine (eyeball it)
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed (available ready prepped in sacks at many markets)
- crusty bread, to pass at the table
Preheat oven to 350
Heat a large skillet over meduin-high to high heat. Add the 2 tablespoons EVOO. Season the chops with the paprika, salt, and pepper. Place the chops in the skillet and sear the meat to caramelize, about 2 minutes each side. Transfer the chops to a rimmed cookie sheet and place in the oven to finish off, 8 to 10 minutes, until the meat is firm to the touch, but not tough. Remove from the oven and let the chops rest, covered with a piece of aluminum foil, for a few minutes.
While the chops are in the oven, return the skillet to medium heat. Add the diced chorizo and cook, stirring frequently, for two minutes. Add the garlic, onions, thyme, salt and pepper. Cook chorizo and onions for about 3 minutes.
Bring an inch or two of water to a boil in another skillet with a lid.
Process the roasted peppers and the parsley in a food processor until smooth. Add the sherry to the chorizo and onions and stir, then pour in the roasted red pepper puree.Cook for another minute or 2, until the puree is heated through.
Place the green beans in the boiling water. Salt the water and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until the beans are just tender. Drain and dress the beans with a drizzle of EVOO, the lemon juice, and salt and pepper.
Place a chop on each dinner plate, top with the chorizo and roasted red pepper sauce, serve with green beans and crusty bread for plate mopping.
serves 4


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It seems to me that the global stock markets are a bit nervous these days. Japan's Nikkei 225 had its first 6% daily loss in its 63-year history. In fact, this happened not once, but twice this year. China's GDP has slowed to 7.7% and its stock market has declined sharply. Europe is still in recession and the U.S. is trying to recover, but is still muddling along with GDP at 1.8%. Despite a weak economy, the U.S. stock market continues to trend higher and risk seems to be contained, at least for the moment.
Risk, as measured by the CBOE Volatility Index, a.k.a. the VIX, is an indication of the level of risk present in the U.S. stock market. From January 2007 until the present time, it has averaged 23.6. On November 20, 2008, the VIX peaked at 80.9, the exact day the S&P 500 reached a temporary bottom of 752.40. I say temporary because it hit its post-crisis low of 676.50 on March 9, 2009.
In the past three years the VIX has had three major spikes. The first was on May 20, 2010, when it reached 45.8; the second was on August 8, 2011, when it hit 48.0, while the third was on October 11, 2011, when it topped 45.5. Each time, the stock market was falling. In fact, the correlation between the VIX and the S&P 500 for the period January 5, 2004 until the present is -0.59, indicating a strong negative correlation. Recently the VIX rose to 20.5, but has fallen back to 16.9 as of June 27th. Therefore, for now at least, it appears to be calm again.
Even though the stock market has been trending higher, how much is due to Fed policy and how much is due to fundamentals? With the near meltdown of the global economy in 2008, stocks fell hard and fast. Maybe we had fallen so far that the rise over the past four years is neither excessive nor alarming. What I am sure of is that we are now in uncharted waters in terms of the degree to which central bankers are expanding their monetary systems. Perhaps the greater question is this: How will these 'Lords of Liquidity' unwind their QE programs without causing severe dislocations in the financial markets?
Consumers and businesses learned a great lesson in 2008: excessive debt can bring the house down and bubbles will eventually burst. As a result, I suspect they will be more cautious about returning to the same behavior that led to the crisis. However, the profit motive is a strong one and leverage is still an intensifier. This could prove to be an interesting ride!
Thanks for reading and have a great week!


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New Details Emerge on the Wanted's 'Walks Like Rihanna' + Nathan Sykes' Surgeryby Jessica Sager | PopCrush
Poor Nathan Sykes! The adorable singer of the Wanted had to undergo vocal surgery earlier this month, leading to an "unforeseen hiatus." And everyone misses the poor guy — especially now that the band is garnering a lot more buzz for their single 'Walks Like Rihanna.'
Sykes is featured on the track, as it was recorded before he went under the knife, but he won't be able to partake in much of the promotion for the single because he's still recovering. The band's manager, Scooter Braun, talked to MTV News about his recovery.
"We're worried, but he's in recovery right now and we're being optimistic," Braun said. "Our prayers go out to him and right now we don't know. We're just waiting to see how he reacts to the surgery." He continued, "They want him back, so you know they're calling daily and he can't really speak. But we're trying to keep his spirits up and letting him know the group's not the same without him."
As for the song itself, the band is excited about it. Co-written and produced by Dr. Luke, it's pretty much got "hit" written all over it. "We are really excited about this single. We feel it's a little different from the usual Wanted sound. We've stripped it back to pure pop. It's just a feel-good, fun track," Tom Parker said. "'Fun' is a good word to describe the video too. Let's just say it's got a lot of character."


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It was simple enough that I actually wasn't worried about it. One of the hardest things I encountered when making cake for other people is to decide what cake to make, so many choices, so many combination, but yet only one that's supposed to be the right one, it's sort of the same as finding your soulmate... in a way (cheesy I know). So this time, I was so glad that I didn't have to go through that phase. The cake coincidentally falls into the theme of the month of July, National Ice Cream Month, how perfect!
It may look simple, but there were actually a lot of consideration going on to make this cake happens. Since this is my first time making an ice cream cake, I wouldn't know if the ice cream would be able to stand on it's own if I put it around the cake, would it melt under California heat, how do I decorate ice cream cake? The last question might be the most challenging one, I am so used to use fruits to decorate cakes, especially in the summer but I don't want the cake to be frozen if I decorate with it. Chocolate would be a good thing to use but again, it is so hard to work with chocolate during summer, unless you have a temperature-controlled kitchen. I did use white chocolate to decorate the sides, which was pretty messy too, but I've always wanted to brush something on chocolate and I'm loving the look of it.
Matcha Madness event hosted by Catty for the month of July. You can go over to her site after the event ends to find out how mad people playing with matcha and you'll be surprised to find so many matcha goodness out there.
Green Tea Ice Cream Cake
Yield: one 8" round cake
Green Tea Chiffon Cake
4 eggs (separate the yolk from the white)
100 g sugar (divided)
75 g cake flour
10 g green tea powder
1/2 tsp baking powder
pinch of salt
50 g milk
50 g vegetable oil
Green Tea Ice Cream
adapted from "The Perfect Scoop"
500 ml heavy cream
250 ml whole milk
150 g sugar
6 egg yolks
6 tsp green tea powder (original: 4 tsp)
Decoration (optional):
Heavy Cream, whipped
Matcha paste (made with matcha powder and a little water to form a paste)
- To make the chiffon cake: Preheat the oven to 350 F and prepare two parchment-lined 8" round pans
- Whisk the egg yolk and 25 g sugar until it becomes a little pale.
- Add the milk and the oil and whisk well
- Combine together the flour, green tea powder, baking powder, and salt and sift them. Set aside.
- In another bowl, whip the egg whites until frothy, then add the remaining 75 g sugar gradually and continue whipping until it forms a glossy stiff peak
- Add the flour to the yolk mixture and whisk well
- Fold in the egg white in addition (about three), making sure there is no big lumps of meringue and don't overfold either.
- Divide the batter between the two pans and bake it for about 20 minutes or until done.
- Let cool until ready to use
- To make the green tea ice cream: Combine the sugar and the milk in a saucepan and bring it to simmer
- In a large bowl, combine together green tea and heavy cream, whisking lightly, then put a strainer on top. Don't overwhisk it as you would have whipped cream instead
- In another bowl, whisk the egg yolk and temper it with the hot milk, return it back to the heat
- Heat the mixture to about 85 C on a gentle heat, stirring non-stop
- Once the mixture reaches the temperature, take it off the heat on pour in over the strainer.
- Whisk the cream+milk mixture vigorously until the matcha powder dissolves (it will be frothy)
- Chill thoroughly and churn in the ice cream maker.
- To decorate: Whip the cream and the matcha paste
- Cover the cake with the matcha cream and decorate.
- If you decided not to use the whipped cream to cover the cake, you can also cover the cake in green tea ice cream just like a mousse cake.
I followed the method stated in the recipe, but personally, I would do it differently next time. The matcha powder is harder to dissolve in a cold liquid. Even after you added the hot milk mixture, the matcha didn't dissolve completely. I whisked the mixture for quite a while until most of the green tea has dissolved and I warmed it a little.
I think it would be better to use the normal "creme-anglaise method":
- Combine the cream and the milk together in a saucepan and bring it to simmer
- Meanwhile, whisk the yolks and the matcha powder, and temper it with the hot milk
- Bring it to 85C, stirring constantly
- Strain to remove any lumps (if any) and chill thoroughly
- Process in an ice cream maker


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- Details
- Specs
- Reviews
The Lutron Maestro Wireless RF 1000 Watt Multi-location Dimmer functions much like a standard dimmer with the added ability to be controlled by other devices as part of Maestro Wireless lighting system. It can be controlled by a Radio Powr Savr Ceiling Wireless Occupancy/Vacancy Sensor to automatically turn on and off when someone enters or leaves a room, or via a portable remote using the Maestro Wireless RF Pico Controller, each sold separately. The dimmer incorporates advanced features such as fade on / fade off, long fade off, and rapid full on. This dimmer and other devices on the Maestro Wireless systems are incredibly easy to install and operate, allowing you to control lighting levels with any combination of up to 10 dimmers, companion dimmers, switches, companion switches, sensors and wireless controls. Local lighting controls such as this are useful in locations where single circuits of lighting need to be dimmed or switched. It also easily installs as part of a Two-location and Three or More-location application with the use of one or more Maestro companion switches. Since there is no need for pulling new wire it is perfect for retrofits. Features a clean, flush, stylish appearance. Coordinate using Lutron Claro Wallplates, sold separately.
Using Lutron's reliable Clear Connect RF Technology, you'll have reliable wireless communication every time. Wireless lighting control allows you to build custom solutions for any room or space in a home, all with the touch of a button. The Maestro Wireless family of products offers you more value, convenience, flexibility and energy-savings for your money.
Maestro Wireless dimmers feature LEDs that softly glow for easy location in darkened rooms and as preset level indicators when the lights are turned off. The dimming feature of this switch saves energy and extends bulb life. Maestro Wireless technology features a delayed fade-to-off option that allows you to safely exit a room before the lights turn off completely. Enjoy the convenience of having your favorite light levels pre-programmed. Whether for work or play, dining or entertaining, task or ambiance, the system remembers the light level you want, every time, with the touch of a button. The Maestro system technology will even recall your settings after a power failure.
About Maestro Wireless
Maestro Wireless is a light control system that allows you to create custom solutions for anywhere in your home. It consists of radio frequency (RF) devices that are easily configured to communicate together for wireless control of lights. The system includes dimmers, switches, lamp dimmers, occupancy sensors and Pico wireless controls. Companion dimmers and companion switches are available for multi-location control. Choose the products that meet your needs.
Key Design Features
- On a single-tap, lights fade UP or DOWN
- On a double-tap, lights go to full ON
- When ON, press and hold to engage 20-second fade to OFF
- Fine-tune light levels by pressing and holding the dimming rocker until the desired light level is reached
- Control your lighting from outside or inside your home up to 100 feet
- Recall your favorite light level with the touch of a button
- LEDs glow softly in the dark for easy dimmer location and show preset light level when product is off
- 20 second delayed fade-to-off allows you to safely leave the room before the lights go out
- Full range dimming possible from up to ten locations
- Multi-location dimming compatible with 3-way wiring for easy installation and retrofit
- Power failure memory - dimmer remembers your settings even after a power interruption
Compatible Lutron Maestro Wireless Products:Maestro Wireless RF 600 Watt Multi-location Dimmer Switch
Available in Ivory
Maestro Wireless RF 1000 Watt Multi-location Dimmer Switch
Available in White
Maestro Companion Dimmer Switch
Available in Almond and White
Maestro Wireless RF 6 Amp Multi-location Switch
Available in Almond, Ivory, and White
Maestro Wireless RF 8 Amp Multi-location Switch
Available in White
Maestro Companion Switch
Available in Light Almond and White
Maestro Wireless RF 300 Watt Plug-In Lamp Dimmer Switch
Available in Black and White
Radio Powr Savr Wireless RF Wall Occupancy/Vacancy Sensor
Available in White
- On a single-tap, lights fade UP or DOWN
Specifications Manufacturer: Lutron Manufacturer Product No.: MRF2-10D-120-WH UPC: 027557631181 Certifications: UL Listed, CSA Certified, FCC Approved, Industry Canada Certified Operating Voltage: 120V, 60 Hz Maximum Load: Incandescent/halogen bulbs up to 600W Maximum # of Device: Multiple location control from Dimmer and up to 9 Companion Dimmers Installation Requirements: Requires a 1-gang U.S. wallbox. 31.2 in (89 mm) deep recommended, 21.4 in (57 mm) deep minimum Wireless Capacity:
- Maestro Wireless controls communicate with the Pico wireless controls and Radio Power Savr sensors through radio frequency (RF).
- Maestro Wireless local controls must be located within 60 ft (18 m) line of sight or 30 ft (9 m) through walls, of Radio Power Savr sensors
- Maestro Wireless local controls must be located within 100 ft (30 m) line of sight or 30 ft (9 m) through walls, of a Pico wireless control
- Maximum wire length between the Electronic Switch and the furthest Companion Switch is 250 ft (76 m)
- Up to 10 Maestro Wireless controls can be configured to work together
Environment: 32° F to 104° F (0° C to 40° C), 0%-90% humidity, non-condensing; Indoor use only Warranty: Manufacturer 1 Year Limited Warranty
1 Review
- Review of 6604wh Review by JONATHAN
Review of 6604wh
Easy to install and works perfectly. It would be nice of they made a kit to install it easily into a standard switchbox with a regular wallplate.
Posted on 8/6/2011
Leave a Review


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Ganetespib, Paclitaxel, Trastuzumab and Pertuzumab for Metastatic Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 Positive Breast Cancer
|The safety and scientific validity of this study is the responsibility of the study sponsor and investigators. Listing a study does not mean it has been evaluated by the U.S. Federal Government. Read our disclaimer for details.
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02060253
Recruitment Status : Completed
First Posted : February 12, 2014
Last Update Posted : June 14, 2018
- Study Details
- Tabular View
- No Results Posted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
|Condition or disease
|HER2-positive Breast Cancer Male Breast Cancer Recurrent Breast Cancer Stage IIIA Breast Cancer Stage IIIB Breast Cancer Stage IIIC Breast Cancer Stage IV Breast Cancer
|Drug: ganetespib Drug: paclitaxel Biological: trastuzumab Biological: pertuzumab
|Phase 1
This phase I trial studies the side effects and best dose of ganetespib when given with paclitaxel, trastuzumab, pertuzumab in treating patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 positive (HER2+) breast cancer that has spread to other places in the body and usually cannot be cured or controlled with treatment (advanced) or has returned after a period of improvement (metastatic). HER2+ describes cancer cells that have too much of a protein called HER2 on their surface. In normal cells, HER2 helps to control cell growth. When it is made in larger than normal amounts by cancer cells, the cells may grow more quickly and be more likely to spread to other parts of the body.
Ganetespib may stop the growth of tumor cells by blocking some of the proteins needed for cell growth. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as paclitaxel, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells, by stopping them from dividing, or by stopping them from spreading. Monoclonal antibodies, such as trastuzumab and pertuzumab, bind to HER2+ cancer cells and may kill them. Giving ganetespib with paclitaxel, trastuzumab, and pertuzumab may be a better treatment for patients with HER2+ breast cancer.
This phase I study has two parts. During the first part of this study, patients with HER2+ MBC receive trastuzumab in combination with ganetespib and paclitaxel to evaluate the safety, toxicity and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of this triplet regimen. There are dose escalations for ganetespib. Paclitaxel and trastuzumab are administered at standard doses without escalation. Part 1 is ongoing.
During the second part of this study, pertuzumab at standard dose will be added to the triplet regimen of ganetespib, paclitaxel and trastuzumab, using the MTD of ganetespib determined in part one. The MTD of ganetespib and the safety of the four-drug regimen will be evaluated. The MTD for ganetespib in combination with paclitaxel and trastuzumab is 150 mg/m2.
|Study Type :
|Interventional (Clinical Trial)
|Actual Enrollment :
|9 participants
|Intervention Model:
|Single Group Assignment
|None (Open Label)
|Primary Purpose:
|Official Title:
|A Phase I Clinical Trial of Ganetespib (Heat Shock Protein 90 Inhibitor) in Combination With Paclitaxel, Trastuzumab and Pertuzumab in Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-2 Positive (HER2+) Metastatic Breast Cancer
|Actual Study Start Date :
|April 2014
|Actual Primary Completion Date :
|June 2018
|Actual Study Completion Date :
|June 2018
Experimental: ganetespib, paclitaxel, and trastuzumab with pertuzumab
Patients receive trastuzumab intravenously (IV) over 30 minutes on days 1, 8, 15, and 22, pertuzumab IV over 30 minutes every 3 weeks (only in Part II of the study, starting day 1), paclitaxel IV over 1 hour on days 1, 8, 15, and 22, and ganetespib IV over 1 hour on days 1, 8, and 15. Courses repeat every 28 days in the absence of disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. The MTD for ganetespib in combination with paclitaxel and trastuzumab is 150 mg/m2.
Drug: ganetespib
Given IV
Other Names:
Drug: paclitaxel
Given IV
Other Names:
Biological: trastuzumab
Given IV
Other Names:
Biological: pertuzumab
Given IV
Other Name: Perjeta
- Maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and recommended Phase II dose of ganetespib plus paclitaxel plus trastuzumab and pertuzumab [ Time Frame: 28 days ]
- Objective Response Rate [ Time Frame: Up to 2 years ]Defined as the percentage of patients who have achieved complete response or partial response assessed based on Response evaluation criteria in solid tumors 1.1 (RECIST 1.1).
- Clinical benefit rate [ Time Frame: Up to 2 years ]Defined as the percentage of patients who have achieved complete response, partial response, or stable disease for at least 24 weeks assessed based on RECIST 1.1.
- Duration of response [ Time Frame: Up to 2 years ]The duration of response is measured from the time of response to disease progression.
- Progression-free survival (PFS) [ Time Frame: Up to 2 years ]The median time of progression-free survival will be calculated.
- PK parameters of paclitaxel (such as area under the curve and maximum concentration) [ Time Frame: Pre-dose, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 4, 7, 21, 24, 27, and 31 hours ]Will be examined descriptively to evaluate the effect of ganetespib on the paclitaxel absorption.
Choosing to participate in a study is an important personal decision. Talk with your doctor and family members or friends about deciding to join a study. To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the contacts provided below. For general information, Learn About Clinical Studies.
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|18 Years and older (Adult, Older Adult)
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
Inclusion Criteria:
- Pathologically confirmed diagnosis of breast cancer (central confirmation is not required)
- Patients must be at least 18 years of age
- Metastatic or advanced breast cancer that is evaluable OR metastatic or advanced breast cancer that is measurable for response as per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1
- Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status 0-2
- Life expectancy of at least 3 months as assessed by the investigator
- Patients with estrogen receptor (ER)+ breast cancer must have received prior treatment with at least one hormone therapy
- Absolute neutrophil count ≥ 1,500 cells/uL
- Platelets ≥ 100,000/uL
- Hemoglobin ≥ 9.0g/dL
- Total bilirubin ≤ 1.5 x the upper limit of normal (ULN)
- Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ≤ 2.5 x ULN
- Albumin ≥ 3.0 g/dL
- Adequate renal function as defined by a serum creatinine ≤ 1.5 x ULN
- Willingness and ability to comply with scheduled visits, treatment plans, laboratory tests, and other study procedures
- Female subjects of childbearing potential and males must agree to use adequate contraception (e.g., hormonal or barrier method of birth control; abstinence) for the duration of study treatment
- Female subjects of childbearing age must have a negative serum pregnancy test at study entry
- Patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) are allowed on study if they have an undetectable viral load, cluster of differentiation (CD)4 > 300 and are on a stable highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) regimen for 1 month prior to study enrollment
- Patients are required to have HER2+ breast cancer defined as a fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH)- ratio of >= 2.0 or immunohistochemistry (IHC) 3+
Patients for the triplet regimen (ganetespib, paclitaxel, trastuzumab):
Any number of prior chemotherapies or biological therapies are allowed, patients are required to have prior treatment with pertuzumab and ado-trastuzumab emtansine with the exceptions listed below:
- Metastatic patients who have not received prior pertuzumab are eligible if: heavily pretreated prior to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of pertuzumab (08-Jun-2012) for first line treatment of HER2+ MBC
- Metastatic patients who have not received ado-trastuzumab emtansine are eligible if: heavily pretreated prior to FDA approval of ado-trastuzumab emtansine (22-Feb-2013) for the treatment of patients with HER2+ MBC who previously received trastuzumab and a taxane, separately or in combination
Patients for the triplet regimen + pertuzumab:
- Prior hormonal therapy for ER+ and/or PR+ HER2+ disease in the metastatic setting is allowed.
- Prior T-DM1 in the metastatic setting is allowed if patients have progressed within 6 months after treatment for early-stage disease.
- No prior history of intolerance or hypersensitivity to trastuzumab and/or adverse events related to trastuzumab, murine proteins, or any of the excipients that resulted in trastuzumab being permanently discontinued
Exclusion Criteria:
Fewer than 21 days since last anti-tumor therapy, including chemotherapy, biologic except trastuzumab, experimental, immune, radiotherapy for the treatment of breast cancer, with the following exceptions:
- Hormone therapy
- Palliative radiation therapy involving =< 25% of marrow-bearing bone is allowed if completed within >= 14 days prior to first study treatment
- Surgery, radiotherapy, or lesion ablative procedure to the only area of measurable/evaluable disease
- Major surgery within 4 weeks prior to first dose of ganetespib
Poor venous access for study drug administration
- Study drug administration via indwelling catheters is allowed only if the catheter is made of silicone material
- No prior chemotherapy in the metastatic setting is allowed.
- Prior pertuzumab is not allowed in the metastatic setting. Pertuzumab given in the neoadjuvant and/or adjuvant setting is allowed.
- History of intolerance or hypersensitivity to trastuzumab and/or pertuzumab
- Adverse events related to trastuzumab, murine proteins, or any of the excipients that resulted in trastuzumab being permanently discontinued
- History of severe (grade 3 or 4) allergic or hypersensitivity reactions to excipients (e.g., polyethylene glycol [PEG] 300 and polysorbate 80)
- History of intolerance or hypersensitivity to paclitaxel and/or adverse events related to paclitaxel that resulted in paclitaxel being permanently discontinued
- Peripheral neuropathy of grade >= 2 per National Cancer Institute (NCI) Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), version 4.0, at the time of or within 3 weeks prior to the first study therapy
- Baseline QTc > 470 msec (average of triplicate ECG recordings); a consistent method of QTc calculation must be used for each patient's QTc measurements. QTcF (Fridericia's formula) is preferred
Use of medications that have been linked to the occurrence of torsades de pointes
- Patients will be eligible for the study if they discontinue any of the listed medications two weeks prior to registration and study enrollment
- Stable regimen of antidepressants of the SSRI class is allowed (common SSRIs include escitalopram oxalate, citalopram, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline and fluoxetine)
- Left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) < 50% at baseline
- Serum potassium, magnesium, and calcium levels (corrected for albumin) outside the laboratory's reference range despite correction
- Treatment with chronic immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine following transplantation)
- Women who are pregnant or lactating
- Current known active infection with HIV, hepatitis B or C viruses
- Uncontrolled systemic disease (e.g., clinically significant cardiac, pulmonary or metabolic disease)
- Other medications, or severe acute/chronic medical or psychiatric condition, or laboratory abnormality that may increase the risk associated with study participation or study drug administration, or may interfere with the interpretation of study results in the judgment of the investigator
History of clinically significant cardiac dysfunction, including:
- Unstable angina
- Unstable atrial fibrillation
- Symptomatic bradycardia
- Indwelling temporary pacemaker
- History of MI within 6 months prior to first study treatment
- History of symptomatic CHF (grade > 3 by NCI CTCAE or Class > II by New York Heart Association (NYHA) criteria
- Ventricular tachycardia or a supraventricular tachycardia that requires treatment with a Class 1a antiarrhythmic drug (eg quinidine, procainamide, disopyramide) or Class III antiarrhythmic drug (eg sotalol, amiodarone, dofetilide). Use of other antiarrhythmic drugs is permitted
- Second or third degree atrioventricular (AV) block unless treated with a permanent pacemaker
- Complete left bundle branch block (LBBB)
- History of long QT syndrome or a family member with this condition
Brain metastases that are:
- Progressive or
- Have required any type of therapy (including radiation, surgery or steroids) to control symptoms from brain metastases within 60 days prior to the first study treatment
- History of an invasive second primary malignancy diagnosed within the previous 3 years, except for appropriately treated stage I endometrial or cervical carcinoma or prostate carcinoma treated surgically, and non-melanoma skin cancer
To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the contact information provided by the sponsor.
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier (NCT number): NCT02060253
|United States, New York
|NYU Cancer Institute
|New York, New York, United States, 10016
|Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
|New York, New York, United States, 10065
|Principal Investigator:
|Shanu Modi, MD
|Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Publications automatically indexed to this study by ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier (NCT Number):
|Responsible Party:
|Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|Other Study ID Numbers:
|First Posted:
|February 12, 2014 Key Record Dates
|Last Update Posted:
|June 14, 2018
|Last Verified:
|June 2018
Breast Neoplasms
Breast Neoplasms, Male
Neoplasms by Site
Breast Diseases
Skin Diseases
Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic
Antineoplastic Agents
Tubulin Modulators
Antimitotic Agents
Mitosis Modulators
Molecular Mechanisms of Pharmacological Action
Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological


text:
Wednesday, 19 September 2012
10k (+ a little something extra) on the track
SR and I both had this morning off. He had run hard yesterday, so I convinced him to pace me for a 10k on the track. The real track this time. The one with the bleachers surrounding it. Thou shalt not build bleachers around a short track. That and I've measured it with the Garmin and Google Earth.
We warmed up by running hills near our apartment. When we arrived at the track, it was empty and I was feeling good. Verly little toe pain. Very little hip pain.
I had written on my blog that my previous PR was 41:09, which was a split from a 15k. This was a time I had remembered from my own Garmin, so who knows how accurate it was. But before that, I had never run a 10k in under 42 minutes.
The vague goal of today was simply to improve on that theoretical PR and make it a real one.
After 3 km, I told SR I wanted to cut it short at 5 because I felt so crappy.
Just before 5km, I said we could do 8km.
Just before 8km, I decided to keep going for the whole 10k.
SR kept me up to date on the splits so I never had to look at my watch. Still on PR pace. Still on PR pace... I think everyone was right who told me I wasted energy looking at my Garmin. Only when you don't run with one, do you realize how liberating it is.
With 4 laps to go, something happened.
"If it starts to smell, It's because I ..."
SR turned his head, wondering why I was talking.
He kept trying to get me to speed up. I kept thinking "it weighs the same in my intestines as it does... ".
I did manage to run the last two km in under 4 min each for a final time of 40:48, but by that time, the PR was not the first thing on my mind.
I was happy. But(t).
The next 20 minutes involved the use of a hose and spraying myself with high pressure, while SR looked on, wondering if he would ever recover. Neither of us will ever recover, fully.
"Sometimes you should try and look at yourself from the outside, Tracy. Can you imagine seeing another 33 year old woman doing that?"
"Would you have stopped?" I asked.
15 comments:
- Steph said...
My husband once wrote "An Authoritative Guide to Crapping Your Pants for Young Adults" Here's the link:
In case you need it. Just sayin' . . .
- 19 September 2012 at 22:17
"A pr is a pr no matter how crappy."
- 20 September 2012 at 02:45
- mmmonyka said...
Hm, 40:48. That's a crappy PR, you can do much better!
- 20 September 2012 at 12:45
- SteveQ said...
Eventually, every runner does it, I think. One talented local runner with ulcerative colitis does it nearly every race - and I've seen her standing around after the race talking to people while I gagged (c'mon - go do something about it when you can!) I once found myself sitting in Lake Superior, washing out my shorts during Grandma's Marathon, while thousands of people watched. [Might I suggest not eating oatmeal before running?]
Oh... and you're not even at #2 (wink, wink) on a scale of 1-100 of disgusting. Trust me, I've seen some stuff on the internet you don't even want to know about!
- 20 September 2012 at 17:23
- Alicia Hudelson said...
Hey, but if you had stopped, you wouldn't be the Tracy we love, and that would be a bad thing.
Also, Rasmus, any man who hangs out with his wife while she hoses herself down with a garden hose following such an incident is a good husband in my book!
- 20 September 2012 at 17:27
- maria said...
I don't get why people are not more horrified by this! Shitting yourself on purpose, in public is NOT ok! (I can't believe I just had to type that.)
CCU is one thing, this is entirely another.
- 20 September 2012 at 23:50
This is not unusual in the running community. In fact, it's often seen as fairly heroic, if not at least ballsy. Google Uta Pippig.
Nice PR.:)
- 20 September 2012 at 23:59
- Jacqueline said...
Running and bodily fluids go hand in hand. Well, maybe not hand in hand ... but you know what I mean. Nice job on the PR. If it makes you feel any better, I pee my pants repeatedly in every single race. Only in races, but every time. I don't even care anymore.
- 21 September 2012 at 16:13
- maria said...
Rebecca, thanks for the condescension. I run and this has not been my experience in the "running community." Yeah the occasional top runner with prize money on the line excepted.
Maybe I'm extra horrified by this because a friend just told me about a half marathon he ran in GA where a runner near him shit his shorts - while running a slow race with portapotties lining the entire race course. This is what happens when people think soiling oneself is just the "culture of running"! Lord help me.
I'm not squeamish. Hell I love bodily fluids. (Smear em on me, do it!) But if it becomes ok for people to just shit themselves during races or any random fast workout, I'm going to have to find a different sport! Or maybe start my own race, the Shit in the Woods or Toilet (or Else!) 50 Mile. If you have an accident, the RD gets to rub your face in it. : )
Cheers SLG, keep on with your entertaining antics!
- 21 September 2012 at 17:28
- Olga said...
off topic (because on topic my answer to your last question would have been "yes" as Rasmus') - a healthy delivery after running through pregnancy (and contractions): http://www.nealgorman.com/2012/09/benefits-of-running.html?showComment=1348241226059#c8830103262219617064
- 21 September 2012 at 17:28
- Olga said...
On topic, I will have to agree with Maria. When it's an accident during a race, unless you ARE Uta Pippig or Grete Waitz, stop and take care of it a.s.a.p. When it's not a race, you are an adult enough to be aware it's coming - and please stop before its actual happening.
- 21 September 2012 at 17:35
- sea legs girl said...
Ok! I totally agree it should not be accepted to elude a port-a-potty in a race and crap your pants!! Ok- yeah unless you're going for the Olympic gold or something. But this happening on a track, where SR and I were completely alone, and us being the only ones who had to deal with it and see it is a little different. Not saying necessarily acceptable, but different :).
- 21 September 2012 at 18:05
- Fast Bastard - World's Fastest Hematologist said...
Being the (thankfully) only witness, I can testify that it was a bit more than what I would consider normal.
I think guys are unable to CCU. When it comes to shitting themselves, most guys would probably find a private spot (or drop out) unless big money or fame were on the line.
I was surprised to read that Chrissie Wellington routinely poops during the swim and bike. And she pees on the bike if someone is trying to draft illegally!
- 21 September 2012 at 19:04
- SteveQ said...
I like Chrissie Wellington even a little more now, though I'd hate to swim behind her.
- 22 September 2012 at 19:54
- Kirsten said...
Oh, so now is the time to tell you what your part is, in my doing my best marathon till now. Yes, yes, it comes nothing close to what you do - but I have the credit of being sooo much older than you ;-)
1. Saying "a discomfort that I'm comfortable with" - that kept me going in the tough parts.
2. "Eating from the beginning until you can't stomach anymore" - that kept me from bonking.
3. Running a "Tracey" = head up and sholders back (until it looks funny) - gives you a lot of air and keeps you going fast automatically.
4. Because you tell openly about your "beating around the bushes", it came as no surprise when - for the first time in my life - I had to desperately "knibe ballerne sammen" until I came to a portaloo - I won't say anymore, just that I feel sorry for the ones who had to use it after me....
Tracey - you have a big big part in my feeling of success - you're a star!!
- 22 September 2012 at 23:26


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(CMT Offstage keeps a 24/7 watch on everything that's happening with country music artists behind the scenes and out of the spotlight.)
Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift are the best of friends. So much so, they started their own organization — the Lonely Girls Club. Gomez talked about it Tuesday (April 16) on The Ellen DeGeneres Show . "Taylor hosts this thing at her house where all of our single friends — which is most of us — get together and get really bad junk food, and she cooks some sort of cake and we play with [Swift's cat] Meredith," she explained. "We just talk about how we're single." And this is how inviting the LGC is: Even when Gomez was the world's No. 1 Belieber (in a serious romantic relationship with Justin Bieber), she still went to these, um, meetings. "I just enjoy Taylor and her parties," she said. The two celebs met about five years ago backstage at a Jonas Brothers concert and have been close ever since. "I think she's one of the strongest girls I've ever met, to be honest," Gomez said of Swift.


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BRASELTON, Ga. – The Lipscomb men's golf team finished round one of the 2014 Atlantic Sun Conference Men's Golf Championship in sixth after combining for a 307 (+19) team total on Sunday.
The Bisons teed off on hole No. 10 and opened the championship strong, positioning themselves inside the top three after the first nine holes of play before losing strokes on the back.
Playing in their first A-Sun Championship, freshmen Sydney Chung and Stoney Crouch paced the Bisons on the opening 18 holes.
Chung was sitting at one-under par on the front nine before recording two double bogeys in a three-hole stretch. The youngster finished at even-par on the back nine and recorded four birdies on the day to close round one in 12th place, posting a two-over par 74.
Crouch found himself on a birdie streak on the front side, draining birdies on holes 13, 14 and 16. He ended the round tied for 20th with a four-over par 76.
Junior Caston Roberts had played well in his last three tournaments, but Sunday he got off to a slow start recording five bogeys and one double bogey to shoot seven-over par on the opening nine holes. Roberts settled down and found his stroke on the backside and drained two birdies to shoot a six-over par 78. Roberts will enter round two tied for 32nd.
Paul Kleine-Kracht closed round one just one stroke behind Roberts with a seven-over, 79. He finished day one tied for 35th.
The lone senior for the Bisons at the championship, Dustin Wilder, carded 38 on the front nine and a 42 on the back to place himself in a tie for 47th after firing an eight-over par 80.
No. 42 Kennesaw State leads the 10-team field after shooting an even-par 288. KSU's Teremoana Beaucousin paced the field with a three-under par 69. He is two strokes better than teammate Jimmy Beck.
Round two will begin at 8 a.m. Monday.
Round-by-round results will be posted on LipscombSports.com.
Lipscomb = 307
T12 Sydney Chung 74
T20 Stoney Crouch 76
T32 Caston Roberts 78
T35 Paul Kleine-Kracht 79
T37 Dustin Wilder 80


text:
Pollo a la BrasaWednesday, July 14th, 2010
About 12 years ago I went back to Peru to visit my family and to show off my new bride. Since you can't go to Peru without visiting Cuzco and Machu Pichu we took the crazy plane ride from Lima to the city that is at around 12,000 feet above sea level. As you take off and the plane starts to climb into the sky you realize that you never level off the plane is continually going higher and higher into the sky. When you look out the plane's windows you see high peaks on either side piercing through the high clouds.
When you arrive in Cuzco the hotel serves you coca tea and advises you to take it easy so you can get used to the altitude and lack of oxygen. Needless to say we crashed and slept most of the day. As we woke up to a darkened Cuzco we were starving and hit the streets looking for something to eat.
We came across a large Polleria (chicken joint). As we entered this cavernous picnic bench filled hall we saw in the center a huge brick fireplace with a rotisserie inside with at least 60-skewered chickens. As this rotisserie went round and round each chicken was licked by the huge wood burning fire below. The juices were running and dropping like rain onto the fire providing a great symphony of sizzle.
We ordered two chickens, which were served on top of French fries with a salad on the side and a squeeze bottle of the huacatay hot sauce. We sat there tearing pieces of meat with our fingers from this juicy and tasty chicken. With each bite we gave it a little hit of the hot sauce, took a bite from the salad, and chased it with some great soaked French fries. I
t was the perfect meal to start our visit in Cuzco. Juicy pollo a la brasa and here's the recipe: http://www.simplefoodie.com/recipes/pollo_a_la_brasa.htm


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Can the GOP and 'tea party' activists get along?
by Suzi Parker at The Christian Science Monitor
They've clashed in some places. But in Arkansas the old guard GOP and the tea party are united, so far, in a bid to oust Sen. Blanche Lincoln.
Little Rock, Ark.
Dani Martin makes light of her Facebook group "Bye Bye Blanche."
"It's something we're doing to poke fun at her," Ms. Martin, a "tea party" activist, says of Arkansas's senior senator, Democrat Blanche Lincoln. "Blanche likes to use her femininity in defense of what she does. We're feminine conservative girls; she doesn't represent us."
With Senator Lincoln up for reelection in November – and besieged on many sides for, among other things, her hesitant support for national healthcare reform – the contest here will test not only the clout of the energetic but unfocused tea party movement but also how effectively the Republican establishment taps it.
So far, the desire to oust Lincoln appears to be uniting tea party and Republican forces here. If that pattern holds, Arkansas could become the altar for a pivotal political marriage that refashions conservatism in America.
But it may also prove to be the exception rather than the rule. Elsewhere, tea party activists and the Republican old guard have clashed. In Florida, for one, tea partyers recently helped oust the Republican Party state chairman, and the two sides back different GOP candidates for the open US Senate seat there.
Moreover, though the two enjoy jolly relations in Arkansas now, anything could happen by the November election, and state conservatives have a lot of sorting out to do if they are to unseat Lincoln.
No fewer than nine candidates have so far thrown their hats into the Republican ring. Two, businessman Tom Cox, and University of Arkansas official Randy Alexander, have tea party credentials, but tea partyers say members are still weighing their choices. The National Republican Senatorial Committee in Washington, for its part, has not endorsed a candidate.
But in a state where the Republican Party lacks strong leadership, the energy is with the tea partyers. That's as clear to conservative activist John Allison as the nose on his face.
"We are aggressively pursuing Blanche Lincoln to get her out of office, and that is our common goal" with the GOP, says the tea party member from rural Arkansas. "The most effective thing is to move into the Republican Party instead of splitting a conservative vote. We need to get involved with them and guide them back."
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text:
MGM Fairs © 1988 -
Hi Gail, Thank you so much for taking so much trouble with all that information.I`m very grateful, as you know I haven`t a clue about this but you managed to answer every question I have , those I forgot to ask and a lot I hadn`t even thought of !!
Michelle Dormer - Miniatures By Pheobe
Hello Gail, May i say, a huge & massive thank you, for fitting us in, at Holt, on Sunday What a splendid job, the W.I. did too, with their beautiful bakes & outstanding service. Well done one & all ~ a fabulous fair, all round. Once again, many thanks for the well organised fair provided, by MGM. Best wishes,
Kelly - Lazy Days
Dear Gail, Thank you for having organised such a nice location for the Cwmbran fair. Looking forward to seeing you in Bath. Best wishes
Rosie Burnton - Magic Mini's
Thanks Gail - that is good news I'll let everyone know tomorrow. I'm pretty sure they will want to do an exhibition and refreshments as before but I will ask and let you know. We really enjoyed doing it the last time so I'm confident the answer will be a resounding 'YES' Bye for now
Marlene - Chair of Cheltenham Dolls House Club
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Last year was a particularly bad wildfire season across the West and in Colorado, which saw two notably large and destructive fires, the High Park and the Waldo Canyon fires.
This year could shape up to be a repeat, with below-average precipitation and snowpack and dry conditions. Already, the Galena Fire in Lory State Park burned more than 1,300 acres near Horsetooth Reservoir west of Fort Collins.
With that backdrop, the Denver Post reported Tuesday that two state lawmakers — Sen. Steve King, R-Grand Junction, and Sen. Cheri Jahn, D-Wheat Ridge — plan to propose Colorado have its own firefighting air tanker fleet.
Currently, California is the only state to maintain its own fleet of tankers. Colorado, like other states, relies on the U.S. Forest Service to provide air tankers to help fight fires.
King told the Post that having its own fleet would cost an estimated $20 million a year, and could be paid with public and private funds and a new state lottery game.
The proposal is certainly worth exploring, given the state's history of wildfires and the Forest Service's dwindling fleet of air tankers. Tankers based in Colorado would be able to respond more quickly to wildfires than Forest Service tankers that might be hundreds of miles away.
But details, particularly cost and funding, need to be fleshed out. As an ongoing, annual cost, a tanker fleet would need to have stable funding. If the state can make it work financially, it would do well to have its own air tankers.