text:
Nationwide Torture Tour
The offerings were nearly nonexistent. With the last of our patients admitted to Medicine we were able to kick back and enjoy a bit of each other, a bit of the night, some sane conversation. It was a slow night with the ambulances pouring in at a quiet pace. We gathered at the computer station and chomped down some potato chips with Doritos. All that was missing were some pretzels and we would have been in heaven, a king's feast.
As the pure exhaustion blended with the carbohydrates, we experienced what can only be described as an amphetamine high. A tiny refuge before the alkaline tide would hit. In our delusional state we kicked around ideas as to what we would do had we won the lottery. The group exploded with laughter as I described what would be a nationwide tour where I would stop at each city, call for an ambulance and then, as I arrived at the ER, pretend to be extremely sick while giving absolutely no hint as to the cause of my illness. I would live my life as the ER resident's worst nightmare, pure emergent tormentor.
These ER docs had a lot of experience dealing with this character and each had their own input on what the conversation would sound like. I took the liberty of writing down a synopsis of that conversation here. Those of you in the health field will probably enjoy this while the others may have a hard time understanding some of the subtle humor. I suggest you give it a try anyways.
It's 3 a.m. in Wichita, Kansas. The Madman, half drunk, reeking of alcohol and sweat, is brought into the ER on a gurney complaining of pain.
Resident (R): Sir what's wrong?
Madman (M): I've got PAIN, everywhere.
R: where does it hurt the most sir?
M: Everywhere.
R: You need to be more specific.
M: OK, it hurts all over.
R: When did it start?
M: A half hour ago?
R: What does it feel like?
M: Kind of dull, all over my chest and my left arm.
R: Are you having trouble breathing?
M: Yes very much.
R: Are you nauseous? Did you vomit?
M: Yesterday I vomited after I ate that nasty fish.
R: Does the pain stay in your chest?
M: No
R: Where else do you feel it?
M: I feel it traveling down to my stomach right here in the lower left.
R: How long have you had this pain?
M: About a day or so.
R: What does it feel like?
M: It's like someone's stabbing me, I guess.
R: Have you been vomiting?
M: About an hour ago I vomited.
(Pause. The Resident, perplexed)
R: On a scale of 1 to 10 how bad is the pain?
M: It's bad.
R: Yeah, but on a scale of 1 to 10 how bad is it?
M: Really bad.
R: yeah, but on a scale of 1 to 10?
M: It's bad.
R: Do you have any other medical conditions?
M: yes, I have high blood pressure and some other things.
R: Have you ever had any trouble with your heart?
M: No.
R: Were you ever hospitalized?
M: Yes, once but it was really short.
R: Do you remember for what?
M: No, they didn't tell me.
R: Where were you hospitalized?
M: In Ecuador.
R: And you don't remember for what?
M: No.
R: Do you take any medications?
M: About six or seven?
R: What are they?
M: One is white and this small. The other is yellow and round, you know, the yellow and round one. I take them every day.
R: Do you know the name?
M: No, my doctor has all the names, call him.
R: What's the name of your doctor?
M: Dr. Carmen.
R: Where is she located?
M: In Mexico.
R: Are you from Mexico?
M: No, but that's where I had the operation?
R: What operation?
M: The one on my heart, after my stay in the CCU.
Well, this goes on forever and it's a real downhill slide. I think I'll write one of these every once in a while for fun. Many of you can probably relate and I'm sure you've seen worse. Heck, many probably meet this patient every single day. Maybe, just maybe, I already won the lottery and you've all been meeting the Madman on his nationwide torture tour.


text:
Hail Damage in Grandy, Minnesota
Have you weathered a hail storm in Grandy Minnesota lately and think you may have some property damage? Damage caused by hail storms can vary significantly based on a number of factors such as wind direction, wind speed as well as the size and shape of the hailstones themselves. These physical variations can cause a multitude of different levels of hail damage Grandy properties may encounter. Since 2000 WeatherTek Exteriors has specialized in assessing and remediating property damage in Grandy, MN from hail storms which can cause damage to siding, roofing vents and roof. If you have experienced a hail storm in Grandy recently and believe your property may have been damaged, call the experts today at (763) 308-5112 for a free quote to repair your building to its prior condition.
Call for a Quote
(763) 308-5112
WeatherTek Exteriors Knows How Harmful Hail Can Be to Grandy Residents
Did you know that the average hail storms typically last between 5-10 minutes and causes damages totaling around $1Billion a year? Damage caused by a hail storm that is left untreated can lead to the need for significant repairs that are costly and extensive. Regardless of the composition; vinyl siding, asphalt shingles, etc. hail damage can breach your Grandy home's protective barrier. Hail is especially known for loosening and breaking up the protective outer layer of roofing shingles. Even minimal visible damage could potentially cause unexpected roof leaks later on. The trained professionals at WeatherTek Exteriors have the knowledge and experience to recognize hail damage in Grandy and diagnose the proper action for remediation. With timely repairs from WeatherTek Exteriors you can reverse the effects of any damage to your roof.
Why Choose WeatherTek Exteriors for Your Grandy Hail Damage Needs
Your Grandy home or property is one of your greatest investments and you should not take that lightly! Here at WeatherTek Exteriors our priority is keeping your assets and family safe. We have been serving Grandy and the surrounding local area since 2000. We pride ourselves on our reputation of trustworthiness and high-quality work. Finding a knowledgeable and professional roofing contractor in Grandy you can rely on to assist you after a storm is crucial. It's our mission to make WeatherTek Exteriors your Grandy hail damage solution provider. Your roof holds on average 10% of your home's total value and we want to help make sure that value will never decrease. There are many ways that we can work with you in regards to inspecting, diagnosing and repairing your roof, give us a call today at (763) 308-5112 to learn more.
What You Can Expect Working with WeatherTek Exteriors in Grandy
If you suspect your roof or property has suffered hail damage, call WeatherTek Exteriors at (763) 308-5112 and let the experts do the work for you! Call the Grandy professionals at WeatherTek Exteriors and we ensure the following,
- Unmatched professionalism and customer care
- The highest of quality products to protect and extend the lifetime of your roofing system
- All local building codes and manufacturer specifications to be followed and respected
- Upon inspection, we can assist you in deciding if there is enough evidence to file an insurance claim or not
- If filing an insurance claim, we will advocate on your behalf ensuring a smooth and stress-free process
- Warranty support and assistance years after your project is completed
Call for FREE Hail Damage Quote
(763) 308-5112
Dial Area Code first please.
★★★★★ - "I was very impressed with Weathertek. They were very professional, arrived on time and were VERY honest. I was in a time crunch and needed my roof repairs completed by a specific date as my (new) homeowners' insurance was being canceled due to (sightings) by an agent indicating overgrowth of tree branches causing major granular loss and moss growing on roof shingles. Weathertek came out to survey the roof and saw no such granular loss caused by the tree branches; there was, however, (noticeable) moss growing. They wrote a statement I could send to my agent to get a different homeowner's policy with a different company. I had 50 to 60% of life left on the roof. Weathertek saved me $1500.00 in roof repairs which didn't need to be done. My husband took care of the moss. I would highly recommend this honest roofing company to anyone."
Cat in Champlin, MN2020-01-02
★★★★★ - "We had been experiencing a leak in the roof and water in our basement during heavy rains for a while. We hired WeatherTek to replace our roof and gutters. Not only does the roof look beautiful, but our leak and basement issues are also gone. We found Jerry and Cam to be very responsive and they addressed every concern we had, even when it wasn't directly related to the roof/gutters. They took the time to recaulk our front door, tap in the nails on our loose fascia, and even fixed our damaged 20-year old PVC fence (when other dedicated fencing companies had refused to take on the project). This was such a great experience after the nightmare we experienced with the company we hired for these projects 20 years ago. They will definitely be our go-to people for projects we will have going forward. We've already asked to have them pressure wash our house and fence and when it comes time in the next year or two, we'll be having them replace our aging deck. Highly recommend!"
Dawn Lewandowski, Storm Damage2019-07-19
★★★★★ - "Great experience in dealing with Jerry and Adam to get my roof repaired. Awesome guys and will use them in future projects."
Jeff Bird , Roof Repair in Blaine, MN2019-07-19
★★★★★ - "Jerry made himself available via text, email, call, and in-person to answer all questions and concerns I had over the course my multi-stage project. Very professional, honest, and care about doing right by the customer."
Tara Schlomka, Roof Replacement in Blaine, MN2019-07-19
★★★★★ - "WeatherTek was very detailed, very professional, and when I had to contact them they answered on the first try and was more than happy to help me with my issues. Will definitely use them for any future projects."
Bryce Teinert, Roofing in Blaine, MN2019-07-19
★★★★★ - "Great Company, Honest and reliable."
Janice in Lino Lakes, MN2019-04-29
★★★★★ - "Jerry was very helpful and knowledgeable. Very friendly and professional. Great experience overall!"
Jim Egan in Brooklyn Center, MN2018-11-05
★★★★★ - "Our experience with Weathertek was wonderful. They were there when they said they would be and finished within the time period they stated. We would recommend WeatherTek to anyone who needs roofing done."
Anonymous in Brooklyn Park, MN2018-09-24
★★★★★ - "Very good! Fully satisfied and would recommend to anyone in need of exterior work"
Norman & Sheila Gast in Minneapolis, MN2018-08-20
★★★★★ - "I like everything, they fixed my house roofing. Looks good"
Ueland yang in Brooklyn Center, MN2018-07-31
★★★★★ - "Weather Tek, did a GREAT job roofing my Home. I have rarely ran into a contractor that made a job so seemless and did everything promised and more!!!"
Rodrigo Pierce, Roofing in Minneapolis, MN2018-07-11
★★★★★ - "It was the BEST experience ever! The WeatherTek Staff did a terrific job arranging everything for my new roof. The professionalism was amazing. Excellent quality materials and workmanship."
Sue Kotila, Roofing in Minneapolis, MN2018-07-09
★★★★★ - "During this recent hail storm, I had 2 homes affected that Randy was able to meet with my insurance adjuster & point out all the issues & got both covered. He's very responsive & professional & an all-around can do guy with a very positive attitude. He really wants to make his customers happy & it shows. I am a realtor & referred him to 2 clients from the same hail storm & both of them also were able to get their insurance to cover the hail claim & chose Randy & WeatherTek for the job. They both thanked me for the referral that they were very happy with his efforts & quality also. I'm glad to have someone as reliable & trustworthy as Randy that I can count on when it comes to roofs."
Julie S., Roof Repair in Anoka, MN2018-05-30
★★★★★ - "In the process of selling our house we discovered hail damage and needed a new roof fast. Jerry was great to work with. He was always available to answer questions, even helping me navigate the insurance claim process. He made sure everything was done quickly and correctly. He checked in with me several times throughout the process. I would recommend working with Jerry and WeatherTek to anyone, especially new home owners or sellers. He is also dog friendly! Thanks again!"
Bob D., Roof Replacement in Blaine, MN2018-05-30
★★★★★ - "What a great experience! I had storm damage and WeatherTek saved the day. Not only did they work with my crazy schedule, but held my hand all along the process. From picking out the best color shingle to go with my home to painstakingly searching my yard for any trash or leftover fasteners (small kids with small feet) they were extremely professional and easy to work with. I'd absolutely recommend them to family and friends."
Maureen K., Roof Replacement in Champlin, MN2018-05-30
★★★★★ - "I reached out to WeatherTek on behalf of clients to get an estimate on roof repairs suggested from an Inspection Report. Jerry was able to come out the very next morning to take a look. He was honest about what needed to be fixed and really put our clients at ease. I'll definitely add him to our "preferred" list and call upon him for other roofing needs."
Katie S., Roof Repair in Champlin, MN2018-05-30
★★★★★ - "I had a significant roof leak resulting from some high winds during a recent storm (ripped shingles off my roof). Reached out to WeatherTek after a recommendation from a friend. Exemplary construction group! In the day-n-age where you often see hit or miss service,
it was great to have a team that:
1) was very good at communicating, and pro-active in their communication.
2) came out to inspect the damage on time
3) was on time for their appointment to fix my roof
4) made the whole process as hassle free as I could imagine it being
5) most importantly... did quality work!
Thanks again to the WeatherTek team and making this a great experience."
Ronald & Sheila A., Roof Repair in Ham Lake, MN2018-05-30
★★★★★ - "Thanks WeatherTek! I was afraid that it was going to be a huge hassle to get my roof replaced, but they helped make things simple. They were at our house the same day we called, and did an inspection, then walked us through the entire process. In less than 2 days they had our new roof on, and even took care of the rest of the insurance stuff for us after the job was done. The house looks great, and no trash left in the yard or anything. I am glad to find a local company who is all about a great customer experience, and quality work. I would definitely recommend calling these guys."
Patty H., Roof Replacement in Brooklyn Park, MN2018-05-30
★★★★★ - "The WeatherTek team was very professional. They did an awesome job on my roof. He explained to me the product of shingles I was purchasing his crew did a fantastic clean up afterwards.......looks like they were never there. He gave me advice on my ceiling which was also damaged from the weather. I did the repair for my ceiling and with his advice it looks great. I admire his work so much I ask for some of his business cards to hand out. I highly recommend them. Thank you, WeatherTek and your crew for an outstanding job."
Patrick P., Roof Repair in Blaine, MN2018-05-30
★★★★★ - "After hearing horror stories from my neighbors about contractors, I was skeptical of choosing the right company for my roof. I choose WeatherTek, LLC for several reasons. They shared several references from real customers which helped a lot. Also, everything they said that would get done did in fact above what I expected. I was fully informed of what to expect before and after the roof replacement. All of my concerns with bad contractors are gone, I will only be using Weathertek in the future."
Brittany J., Roof Replacement in Plymouth, MN2018-05-30
★★★★★ - "After Choosing WeatherTek for our Windows and Insulation, I soon noticed why I selected them for my house. Several members of the team came out to insure all of our measurements were accurate. We had been wanting to do new windows for some time and these guys took the stress out of this project for us. They even had a Pella rep come out to insure we knew all of our options. We had everything done just before winter in 2017, and our heat stayed in and our utility bills went down noticeably. I would rate my experience a 10/10."
David C., Window Replacement in Champlin, MN2018-05-30
★★★★★ - "My wife and I had several contractors come out to our home and finally we meet Adam at Weathertek. From the very start, Adam was honest and upfront with the process. They had lots of products to choose from and gave us plenty of time to decide what roof color would look the best on our house. Once we went through their color meeting check list and choose our materials Adam took it from there informing us of every move made. Weathertek (Adam) blew our expectations out of the water. At the end of getting our roof replaced Adam stayed in contact and continued to make sure we were 100% satisfied. Highly recommended for your next remodeling project."
Ben and Trisha C., Roof Replacement in Ramsey, MN2018-05-30
★★★★★ - "From start to finish working with Weathertek Homes was simple. A trained Project Manager came out to look at my roof and determined the damage was significant. The staff informed us of every step from our insurance adjustment, color/product selection, install dates and permits pulled. The installers were very nice and did a great job! We will be using them in the future for all of our projects."
Greg T., Roof Installation in Maple Grove, MN2018-05-30
★★★★★ - "We had the pleasure of working with Jerry throughout our hail damage claim. He was fun to work with and had a lot of knowledge. Ultimately we had our Roof and siding replaced, our home looks great. We would highly recommend using WeatherTek for any of your exterior projects. 5 out of 5 for overall experience."
Mary P., Roof Repair & Siding Repair in Brooklyn Park, MN2018-05-30
★★★★★ - "My roofing experience with Weathertek, LLC was a very positive and professional one. The entire process was quick and efficient! I received assistance with getting my inspection and insurance quote and decided to go forward with the job. I received guidance on roofing materials and they took care of scheduling and delivering all materials, keeping me well-informed of start dates and expected duration of the job. The work started and completed as promised with minimal disruption to my daily activities. A Project Manager from the company was on site frequently throughout the job to ensure quality work was being done. They also ensured the crew cleaned up all roofing debris before leaving for the last time! The best part to share is my monthly savings on utilities and reduced insurance premiums! I would highly recommend Weathertek, LLC for your home project needs; roofing, siding, or insulation!"
Deb L., Roof Replacement in Brooklyn Center, MN2018-05-30
Call for FREE Hail Damage Quote
(763) 308-5112
Dial Area Code first please.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
After returning from a two-week holiday stay with family in Rhode Island, Jeff and I were in a bit of a funk. San Diego suddenly seemed too quiet, too sunny, too bland. We missed the crunch of snow beneath our feet, the hearty bowls of quahog chowder and the sight of a pink and orange Dunkin' Donuts on every street corner. More than anything, we missed the accents.
Like mozzarella, Italico is a mild, slightly sweet and tangy semi-soft cheese that turns irresistibly gooey when it melts. It was destined for macaroni and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches and pizza. It's also one of the cheeses used for the Wisconsin's Milk Marketing Board's second annual 30 Days, 30 Ways with Macaroni and Cheese blog, in which I'm participating.
Just so you know, the sossig and peppiz mac n' cheese did the trick. Jeff and I have been feeling much better, though we still miss seeing Dunkin' Donuts.
Italian Sausage and Pepper Macaroni & Cheese
Makes 6-8 servings
Printable recipe.
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 pound hot fennel Italian sausage, removed from the casing
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
1 pound lined penne
8 tablespoons butter
6 tablespoons flour
6 cups whole milk
4 cups (16 ounces) Italico cheese, grated
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
A few shakes of salt and black pepper
1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, thinly sliced
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm olive oil. Add onion and saute 3 minutes or until softened. Add sausage and cook for 8-10 minutes or until browned all over and no longer pink. Add red bell pepper and cook 2 minutes until softened.
3. Cook pasta in salted water, about 2 minutes short of being fully cooked; it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain the cooked pasta, but do not rinse.
4. Meanwhile, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Whisk in flour. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until it reaches a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thick and bubbly.
5. Add cooked sausage and pepper mixture, Italico cheese, cream sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, basil and parsley. Stir well. Pour into prepared baking dish. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbling around the edges.
For more delicious macaroni and cheese recipes, check out http://www.30days30waysmacandcheese.com/.
You might also enjoy these cheesy pasta recipes from Food Blogga:
Heaven-Sent Macaroni and Cheese (with Gruyere cheese)
Italian Macaroni and Cheese with Pancetta (with Fontiago Cheese)
Orange Cauliflower Mac 'n Cheese (yes, it's healthier and good)
Light and Creamy Parpadelle with Mascarpone Cheese and Broccolini


text:
Honduran President Manuel Zelaya believes he put his adversaries' backs to the wall this week. He may, however, have painted himself into a corner as well. By sneaking back into Honduras on Sept. 21 and taking refuge inside the Brazilian embassy in Tegucigalpa, the exiled leader deposed in a June 28 military coup hoped to turn up pressure on the de facto government to negotiate a settlement that would put him back in office until his term ends in January. But in a telephone interview with TIME on Friday, Zelaya complained of noxious tear gas wafting into the embassy, the scene this week of deadly clashes between his supporters and Honduran security forces. And he seemed to acknowledge that he's also turned up pressure on himself to get Hondurans and the international community fervently enough behind him to end the standoff. "We want this to end soon," he says. "But I may have to summon all my spiritual strength to get through it."
Those who back Zelaya's restoration, including the Obama Administration and every other world government, argue that condoning a military coup would simply set Latin America's democratic clock back to the dictator-infested 20th century. Zelaya's opponents equate his leftist politics with those of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez whom they call a socialist caudillo and they point to Chavez's declaration this week that he helped Zelaya get to Tegucigalpa as proof that Zelaya is the Venezuelan's puppet.
Zelaya says he got no help from Chavez and, contrary to Chavez's statements this week that he advised Zelaya to take refuge with the Brazilians, tells TIME the Venezuelan President did not know he was headed to that embassy. "No one knew," says Zelaya. "I'm a great friend of [Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva], who has given me a lot of support, so going there was a sensible thing to do."
Either way, Zelaya, 57, says he trekked 15 hours by foot, car and plane (he won't say over which border or who helped him) before showing up at the Brazilian mission. It took him in, even though it may have to host Zelaya, who would be arrested if he stepped outside, for weeks if not months. Zelaya had tried unsuccessfully to fly and walk into Honduras in July. "How could I stay in exile," he asks, "when the coup has been condemned by every country in the world? I had to come back to show support for the people who elected me." Even those who support restoring him to office wonder if his theatrical return actually hurts his chances of getting de facto Honduran President Roberto Micheletti to agree to a settlement. But Zelaya insists it has turned momentum his way: "The coup leaders are like anyone who committed a crime and wants to hide it. You have to keep the spotlight on it."
After Zelaya told the Miami Herald earlier this week that the Micheletti government was "threatening me with death" and that "Israeli mercenaries" were trying to zap him with high-frequency radiation, Brazil admonished him to soften his rhetoric. But after army and police riot squads were criticized at home and abroad this week for their heavy-handed use of clubs, tear gas and mass arrests, Zelaya still argues, "We came here for dialogue and they answer us with war. Since the coup this has become a violently repressive regime." Micheletti supporters, however, suggest that's part of Zelaya's strategy. The only way he can win, they say, is if his demonstrators can prevent the country's Nov. 29 presidential election from taking place, or provoke security forces into atrocities that would force the U.S. or the U.N. to intervene more forcefully.
Zelaya also hints that he came to Tegucigalpa in part because he and his leftist allies in the region, including Chavez, felt the U.S. has been too tepid in trying to leverage Micheletti. (The Obama Administration has cut off some $30 million in aid to Honduras as well as visas, and has threatened not to recognize the presidential election results if Zelaya is not returned to office by then.) "President Obama and Secretary of State [Hillary] Clinton have made a great effort, and I realize they live in a democracy with limits on their actions," he says. "But I do feel they could and should do more, like trade sanctions." When reminded that the U.S. is largely prevented from cutting off trade with Honduras because of the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA), Zelaya insists, with some irony, "I am still the legitimate President of Honduras, and I approve of that action."
The Micheletti camp, which denies Zelaya's ouster was a coup, says Zelaya was booted out because he defied a Supreme Court order not to hold a non-binding referendum on whether to convene a special assembly to reform Honduras' Constitution. The move, say Zelaya foes, was a veiled attempt to eliminate presidential term limits and usher in Chavez-style socialism. But Zelaya, while arguing the Constitution needs to be modernized to better help the 70% of the population who live in poverty, says the referendum "was an opinion poll, and it never once mentioned extending presidential term limits."
Despite evidence to the contrary, Zelaya denies that he defied the Supreme Court. (The matter was being appealed, he says.) But, like the rest of the hemisphere, he asks, "Even if I did, why wasn't I charged and tried in court instead of removed before dawn by the threat of soldiers' bullets and flown away? The army chiefs say it was because I was a communist, that Chavez and Fidel Castro were coming to take over the country. But in fact I was pursuing social policies, like raising the minimum wage, that our economic elite found threatening."
When elected in 2005 with his trademark cowboy hat, Zelaya was widely considered a centrist and even now he denies that he took the hard left turn as President that his critics accuse him of, despite his strong alliance with the more radical, anti-U.S. Chavez. "It's like when people in your country call President Obama a socialist just because he stumps for healthcare reform," Zelaya says. "The presidential term limits issue was just a false pretext for a coup."
Zelaya is now betting he can bring the coup leaders to the table to sign the San José Accord, the deal brokered by Costa Rican President Oscar Arias with the backing of the U.S. and the Organization of American States. It would return Zelaya to the presidency for the waning months of his term but with certain conditions, such as dropping the Constitutional reform effort while granting an amnesty to the coup leaders. "We have to do this," says Zelaya. "I don't want to see Honduras become the first Latin American country of the 21st century to revert to a coup to remove a President."
Conditions had improved in the embassy for Zelaya and his entourage since the de facto government restored the building's electricity and water (which Micheletti was widely criticized for having turned off after Zelaya arrived.) Zelaya ended the interview, however, when he claimed the air inside the embassy had gotten too thick with tear gas and possibly other irritatnts. It was a reminder of how murky, and painful, the weeks ahead in Honduras promise to be.


text:
When Robert Walls graduated from high school in 2000, he weighed 330 pounds.
Seven years later, he weighed 940.
"I was always a bigger guy, and I gradually started getting bigger," said Walls, who moved from Kansas to Midland last month to become kitchen manager at Riley's Bar & Grill. "I had issues just like any other big person did, but I never thought there was anything wrong with me. I was happy being 'Big Rob.' But as I started getting bigger and sicker, I started becoming more ashamed.
An aspiring chef, Walls had to leave culinary school because he was too sick. At his peak weight of nearly 960 pounds, he moved to Illinois to take up a graphic arts job.
"The job didn't work out — it got to a point where I couldn't physically handle the job," he told the Midland Reporter-Telegram (http://bit.ly/19c2uCI). "I didn't have any family where I was. Before you know it, I found myself homeless."
Walls attempted different diets and weight-loss plans, but the pounds never stayed off.
"I would see 'TV weight loss' this or 'this diet' that," he said. "I was trying all this different stuff. I lost a couple hundred pounds from different diets, but even then, I couldn't sustain it. I would lose 200 pounds and then gain 50."
Eventually, Walls ended up in the hospital, where they made the decision to admit him to a nursing home.
"I couldn't go out and work. I couldn't stand on my feet 10 hours a day," he said. "It was like being in prison — not being able to do anything for yourself.
Walls was in and out of nursing homes for a few years, a time he described as "very, very lonely."
"I spent a lot of time in those nursing homes by myself, staring at the walls, online chatting, doing graphic design work, even online dating," he said. "I was very standoffish with family and friends. I would go months, sometimes years, without talking to family. I would never visit family and friends because I was so ashamed. I went from being a very rah-rah, outgoing, front-of-the-crowd person to being more withdrawn."
But there was an upside to all the loneliness. Though he was stuck in hospital and nursing home beds, Walls decided to continue his education. He obtained a bachelor's degree in hotel restaurant management and degrees in culinary arts and graphic design.
Then, he met two people who he said saved his life.
Ron Goodman and Paige Whitney were both nurses at Walls' nursing home, and they introduced him to the gastric bypass surgery.
"They were telling me how they felt I was too young to be in a nursing home," Walls said. "I was 27, and I was seeing people die every day. I would go to breakfast with a lady who's 75 or 80 years old and have a conversation with her, and then I would go look for her at lunch — and she'd be gone. I was living in a place where people go to die."
Walls was approved for the gastric bypass surgery, a procedure that divides the stomach and leads to a smaller functional stomach volume. When accompanied with diet and exercise, patients lose a large amount of weight over time.
Dr. Subhash Nagalla, a bariatric surgeon at Odessa Regional Medical Center, said people with a body mass index (BMI) over 40, or over 35 with life-threatening conditions, qualify for the gastric bypass surgery. A normal BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9.
First, Walls had to lose more than 100 pounds to prepare for the surgery. When he underwent the five-hour operation in September 2008, he weighed 844 pounds.
Weight loss after gastric bypass surgery varies widely depending on how seriously the patient follows a proper diet and exercise, Nagalla said. Most patients typically lose about 40 pounds by the second month after surgery and 100 by the sixth month.
By Walls' first month check-up, he had already lost 100 pounds.
However, that weight didn't come off easily, Walls said. The gastric bypass surgery involves special diets that must be followed, or patients could gain back all the weight they've lost. Walls was put on a diet where he was only able to eat 2-ounce portions of food at a time.
"I went from being able to eat KFC every day to eating puréed food and protein shakes," he said. "All of my favorite things were pretty much nonexistent."
Walls continued losing weight over the next few years. When he had lost about 400 pounds, it became apparent he would need surgery to remove the loose, hanging skin on his body.
More than 90 percent of patients who undergo weight loss surgery experience loose skin, Nagalla said. The skin loses its elasticity because of significant stretching to accommodate excessive weight gain. Eventually, it reaches a state where it cannot recoil after dramatic weight loss.
It'll be five years this September since Walls' surgery, and he's still losing weight. Currently, he has lost nearly 750 pounds.
Walls' results aren't typical, Nagalla said. Most patients lose weight for 18 to 20 months after gastric bypass surgery. However, most patients also don't start out as 960 pounds, he said.
"He did very well," Nagalla said. "That's not the typical result. Usually, when you have such a high BMI, the surgery technically becomes very different. However, the more weight that a person has, the higher the chance of losing more weight."
The most important thing now is to keep that weight down, Nagalla said. If a patient doesn't follow dietary restrictions and continues eating fried and high-calorie foods, there's no way you can prevent them gaining all the weight back.
Walls said his problem now is that he's not comfortable weighing so little.
"I've never weighed this small," he said. "I weigh 215 pounds now. The last time I weighed 215 pounds was in the sixth grade!"
Though he eats "whatever he wants" now, he eats small portions. Walls said he wants to feel healthier and is looking for a trainer to help him become more physically fit.
"I was a very ultra-athletic person, very strong," he said. "As I've lost weight, I've started to gain some of that back. I want to put on mass, I want to put on muscle, I want to feel more physically fit."
Adjusting to life after the surgery is mentally and physically taxing, Walls said.
"It's hard because you look in the mirror and don't see that 900-pound person anymore," he said. "Everything I did was wrapped around being that big. It changes your entire identity — who you are, what you wear, what you eat, how you carry yourself."
Physically, Walls said he loves that he can wear clothes that aren't from the Big and Tall store. He used to need sizes 8X, 9X and 10X.
"I actually have a wardrobe now," he said. "Back then, I spent all my money on shoes and hats because I could wear shoes and hats, because I couldn't wear clothes."
Last month, Walls moved from his native Kansas to Midland to take up the kitchen manager position at Riley's Bar & Grill. He is responsible for ordering, recipes and nearly all of the cooking.
Adjusting to Midland has been difficult at times, he said.
"I think that if you're not strong mentally, it is a very depressing place," he said. "There is nothing but alcohol and oilfields here."
Luckily, Walls said his "restaurant family" takes care of him, including assistant manager Mary Ann Brashear.
"He got down in the dumps one day, missing home, missing family," Brashear said. "I let him know real quick that he's got family here, too."
Though Walls has been interviewed by Lifetime Television, A&E and Food Network to appear on various shows, he said he doesn't want to glamorize the weight loss process.
"I feel they don't give a very accurate glimpse, a real enough glimpse, of what a person goes through," he said. "I don't want to tell my story from a glitzy, glamoury, 'it was easy' perspective. Because it's not. It's not easy."
As for reality weight loss shows like "The Biggest Loser" — Walls said they're a "total crock."
"Those people have every celebrity fitness trainer, every celebrity dietitian, every celebrity everything," he said. "They lose 100 pounds, they go off the show and then six months later, you see them on the red carpet somewhere enjoying their 15 minutes of fame — and they've gained it all back, plus 20 pounds.
"I'd really just like to stress that it does not happen overnight. It's not easy. Don't believe what you see on TV — with the magic diets and people having these weight loss surgeries and all of a sudden they're smaller."
Visit Walls' YouTube page at http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuga2TXmbK_-gjHysWaW8eg to see his weight loss journey.
(Photo: In a July 2013 photo Robert Walls, chef and kitchen manager, stands in the kitchen at Riley's Bar and Grill in Midland, Texas. Walls used to weigh more than 900 pounds but has worked to get his weight down to 215 pounds. (AP Photo/Reporter-Telegram, Tim Fischer) Tim FischerReporter-Telegram)
Read more http://newsone.com/2677504/robert-walls-weight-loss-surgery/


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"In twenty years, we will be living in a better world. Progress is something that cannot be stopped." Agree or disagree.
I agree with this statement. To begin with, I need to make a clear
viewpoint of (I think it should be "on") what I think a better world needs. A better world
must consists of well-developed civilizations and high technologies.
It is no doubt that these two requirements are still proceeding; indeed,
they are something we can't stop.
First, in twenty years, most of communities and countries will be
well civilized. It is obviously that such a process is unstoppable; for
example, during the past few years, the world's agricultural industry
has significantly improved, not to mention the population densities. The
Agricultural Departments, which have investigated a variety of tools for
farming usages, have provided them to the farmers.
Last, in twenty years, the world's technology developments will
approach to their high, or reach to ( we say "to rech something" not "to reach to something") a breaking point. The Growing speed of
computer technology for an example, the techniques of software
programming, webpage designing, internet accessing and windows
developing have grown dramatically. Another example, after the
astronaut, Armstrong, conquered the moon, the United States has
been setting their target on the Mars, and a spaceship will be sent
within twenty years!
In conclusion, civilizations and technologies are what make a better
world; although the developing process on both elements have ( the verb here refers to the "process of developing". It should be singular "has") their
advantages as well as their disadvantages, the developments can not
be stopped.
I didn't correct all the mistakes.
A teacher or a native speaker can help you better.
Student or Learner


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The red sari worn by the female half of the White House party crashers last year during their couple's shameless leap into infamy reportedly will be put up for auction – once the scandal is tackled in her new show, "The Real Housewives of D.C."
We'll take this gossip nugget as a sign that Reality TV memorabilia somehow might be headed toward lucrative icon status, like, say, Captain Kirk's phaser. And we're not particularly stunned by the news this week that plans are in the offing for a three-day Reality TV convention next year in Los Angeles.
As highly illogical as it sounds, Reality TV fans could become the new Trekkers.
This speaks as much to the changing, downward definition of fame as it does to the schizophrenic state of television. For every "Modern Family," there are five editions of the decidedly less realistic "Real Housewives." For every "Glee," there are countless reality talent shows – including one tied to "Glee."
Instead of repeats, summer now means more "Jersey Shore." So it shouldn't be a shock that Snooki's recent arrest proved big news – and that her mugshot quickly became as ubiquitous as the photo of a certain fame seeker in a red sari shaking hands with the president of the United States.
The organizers of what we'll nickname Reality-Con (they call it the Reality Rocks Expo) clearly are trying to tap into the success of the Comic-Con, the San Diego fanboy fest that's gone, over the last four decades, from a humble geek gathering to a must-stop for anyone promoting a movie even vaguely related to sci-fi.
Fans clearly crave a sense of connection with entertainers and pop culture creators. That no doubt explains why Comic-Con draws customers by the tens of thousands, why folks troll Hollywood Boulevard looking at the stars at their feet instead of the ones in the sky and why music lovers make pilgrimages to Cleveland to walk through the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
But we've also seen star worship taken to ghoulish, fetishistic proportions – you're guaranteed to pay a fortune for anything ever touched by Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson or Marilyn Monroe (not even necessarily touched: Monroe X-rays recently commanded $45,000).
As crazy as the pop culture memorabilia industry can get, at least fans generally are spending energy and money on endeavors related to talented people – ones who gave us favorite movies, TV shows and songs. What did "Jersey Shore" ever give us, except for a few cheap laughs and many more opportunities to cringe?
The honorary co-chairs of April's Reality Rocks Expo include "American Idol" judge Randy Jackson, who might not have a job next season. The Expo is billed as a celebration of all non-scripted TV fare – but perhaps it's unfair to lump in the some of the stronger talent-competition shows, such as "Idol" with the likes of the Kardashians, who are famous for being inexplicably famous.
Talent show figures could even provide some genuine entertainment as the halls of the Los Angeles Convention Center likely teem with Cosplay versions of Snooki (but hopefully not of Richard Hatch, the naked guy from "Survivor").
Will "Top Chef" contestants and survivors of "Hell's Kitchen" compete for the catering contract? Will the "Cake Boss" or the "Ace of Cakes" provide the desserts? And will the casts of "Dance Your Ass Off" and "Dancing With the Stars" have a ballroom faceoff?
The Reality Rocks Expo could become a reality show unto itself...
In other Reality TV news, "Survivor" host Jeff Probst complained this week to The Hollywood Reporter that the outstanding reality show host award won't be presented during the national Emmys broadcast, ostensibly because of time issues. He has a point – the folks who have filled too much of the airwaves with Reality TV shows shouldn't try to bury their sometimes embarrassing treasure chests on some desert island.
If the red sari fits, wear it.
Hester is founding director of the award-winning, multi-media NYCity News Service at the City University of New York Graduate School of Journalism. He is the former City Editor of the New York Daily News, where he started as a reporter in 1992. Follow him on Twitter.


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a link to Lift Studios
Home » Blog » Uncategorized » people links
Published by Mary-Jo
I am passionate about diversity, inclusion, sustainability and community. Having raised my children in a small B.C. town as a single parent, I relied on the community, my resourcefulness and the land to sustain us. We developed a market farm,built a cafe and catering business that utilized the produce, local farmers and families to thrive. As a Waldorf school parent I became experienced in biodiversity, edible landscapes and community engagement. I gained substantial skills in leadership, facilitation, project management, communication through teaching yoga and running various business's. My role as a facilitator and trainer to individuals seeking to become a yoga teacher- whom never thought that they could stand in front of a room and speak in public, gave me insight into human nature and coaching. In addition to designing and building businesses - cafés, yoga studios and national training programs, I am a student of Social Development & Social Psychology and understand the complexity and importance of social engagement. I can handle with grace most any situation, having encountered a disability later in life. Consequent to becoming disabled and through advocacy and providing peer support I have trained and acquired extensive exposure and understanding of UN principles on disability, The Human Rights objectives, theories and principles of Universal Design and the various challenges and obstacles for those affected and the relationship to various stakeholders. After 30 years of teaching yoga, my spinal cord injury and subsequent sabbatical has allowed for the integration of my yoga and more in-depth study of the Healing Arts. I have had the fortune of working with some of the best in the field of rehabilitation, Somatic Experiencing and manual therapy including Emilie Conrad, Mark Finch, Judy Russel, Rod Stryker, Carolyn Myss, Ana Forest, & Tim Miller, Susan Harper, Mariah Moser, Herta Buller and Nature.View all posts by Mary-Jo →


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Wireless Research
Researchers need flexible and cost-effective tools to develop the next generation of wireless communication. With the right tools, researchers can create, design, simulate, prototype, and deploy wireless systems faster.
The next generation of wireless data networks, known as "the fifth generation" or "5G," needs to address capacity constraints as well as existing challenges. A potential use of the mmWave bands is an emerging idea that promises more bandwidths for higher data rate in the new bands. The NI software defined radio (SDR) platform offers affordable, flexible transceivers that turn a standard PC into a wireless prototyping tool. Paired with the LabVIEW Communications System Design Suite, this platform delivers an integrated software and hardware system that engineers can use to rapidly prototype and deploy real-time wireless communications systems. By combining such powerful tools, NI is revolutionizing the prototyping of high-end research systems.
The mmWave Transceiver System is a mmWave SDR with radio heads that cover the 27.5-29.5 GHz and 71-76 GHz frequency band, enabling channel sounding and real-time two-way multiple input, multiple output (MIMO).
Efforts are underway to define new ways to increase data rates and network capacity by enhancing 4G technologies and introducing new technologies in 5G.
In the race to define the next generation of wireless communications standards, new technology helps designers rapidly prototype new wireless systems.
The Alliance Partner Network includes more than 1,000 companies that specialize in complete solutions. From products and systems to integration, consulting, and training services, NI Alliance Partners are uniquely equipped and skilled to help solve some of the toughest engineering challenges.
A National Instruments Alliance Partner is a business entity independent from National Instruments and has no agency, partnership, or joint-venture relationship with National Instruments.


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What you need to know before you go
Croatia stretches along the Adriatic and is home to over 1,000 islands – some of which are among the most charming in Europe. The country is also home to 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which include dramatic, centuries-old towns that continue to win the hearts of travelers as well as filmmakers for their magnificence and well-preserved architecture.
The Croatian countryside offers an abundance in natural beauty, with numerous old-world wine regions that date back to Ancient Greek settlers. Besides offering an impressive history with numerous sites that you can visit and admire up close, Croatia is a cultural melting pot – it's right at the intersection between Central and Southeast Europe, bordering countries like Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, and Montenegro.


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Big Crowds brauchte ein neues Logo Design und hat einen Wettbewerb auf 99designs gestartet.
Aus 73 Designs von 35 Designern wurde eine Gewinner gewählt.
Looking for a remarkably fun, but professional header for our new site now being built. It will be part of our existing site that gives away Free TV Tickets to TV shows in LA and NY.
***Please only submit for the header/bannner design. The other category listings were done in error.***
"The TV & Film Studio Insider" (the TV & Film is smaller thant Studio Insider and above it).
Written, Contributed & Compiled by Studio Insiders
Desired Color Scheme:
not garrish or boxy
Desired Style:
Fun and easy and Professional to use but not cartoonish.And not boxy.totally designed with fun elements
Accepted File Formats:
Standard Web Formats (.jpg, .gif or .png); Layered Formats (.psd or .tiff)
Looking for a remarkably fun fully designed header/banner for our new, now being built site: The TV & Film Studio Insider.
It will be part of our site that gives away Free TV Tickets to TV shows in LA and NY.

Below at the bottom, find links to existing headers we are using, these are just to give you an idea of some of the stuff we like.

We are not looking for you to copy these but just give you a sense we want fresh ideas. But again we are open to anything)
The site will have insider information and listings for film and tv industry jobs (camera men, lighting, production, directing etc) as well as interviews, studio tour info on how to break into the industry and articles by people already in the industry.

It will basically serve as an authority on all things related to TV and Film studios.

The name "The TV & Film Studio Insider" MUST be used.
"The TV & Film " would be much smaller and above the "Studio Insider"

The header/banner should have the fun feeling of Hollywood and the entertainment industry (but definitely not cartoonish). It is giving information that needs to be looked at as professional and useful for people to learn how to enter the TV or Film Industry.Can use photos, drawings and/or other elements.

Whether a person is already in the industry, wants to be in the industry or wants to learn more about the industry ...this will become their destination.
Fun, Easy & Professional.

Even though the header won't be flash... it should have the feeling and excitement of flash.

Possible elements to include but NOT Required are: Hollywood and NY landmarks; such as the Hollywood sign, Capital Records Bldg, Radio City Music Hall, Broadway.

Other elements to possibly include would be a large film studio gate,
Kellogg lights,

film reels,
or anything capturing the idea of being an Movie and TV Insider.

Just some of the studios that we will also have included in the site are Disney, Warner Brothers, Paramount, NBC, CBS etc. Their logos or names can be used since we work with them, but don't need to be used.

PLEASE ask any questions or run ideas by us before spending time if you're not getting a feeling for what might work. We're happy to answer all questions and discuss the header with you before you begin.

If you have an idea that would benefit by flash... run it by us ... we would pay more of course. But run it by us first.

If this contest experience works for us we will be looking for more header/banners for other sections of the site: Fun & Free (related to what to do in town (NY and LA) / In Town Today In NY Today/ In LA Today / Celebrity Insider / Studio Store / Hollywood Scams and about 15 more.
Sample Header1
Sample Header2
Sample Header3
Sample Header4
This contest was originally listed in multiple categories:
- Logo Design
- Web Page Design
- Other Design Tasks
Finden Sie heraus, wie ein Designwettbewerb funktioniert, oder lernen Sie mehr über unsere Logo-Design-Angebote.


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Quality Product
Order On-line Tracking
Timely Delivery
Credit Rating
Credit Services
Credit Purchasing
FRP molded grating made of vertical and horizontal continuous fiberglass fully soaked in unsaturated polyester resin giving perfect bi-directional mechanical properties. Combining unmatched corrosion resistance with strength, long life and safety, molded grating provide the ultimate in reliable performance, even in the most demanding corrosive conditions. Besides, it is easy to cut and install. CNBM offer the widest selection with panel sizes, colors and slip resistant surfaces, clients can avail FRP grating your specific requirements.
Product Features:
- Light but high loaded strength
- High anti-corrosion and anti-aging
- Easy installation and maintenance
- Low maintenance
- Non-conductive
- Lowest in life cycle cost
- Corrosion Resstance
- Anti-slippery
- Various sizes and color available
Colour Design:
To satisfy customer's design project, CNBM grating offers a wide selection of grating colors to choose from. The standard colors available for fiberglass grating as following:
- Blue
- Red
- Yellow
- Green
- Light Grey
- Dark Grey
Custom colors of fiberglass grating may be available upon request, you can contact us learn more.
Moded Grating Sizes List:
1. Manufacturer Overview
|Year Established
|Annual Output Value
|Main Markets
|Company Certifications
2. Manufacturer Certificates
|a) Certification Name
|Validity Period
3. Manufacturer Capability
|a)Trade Capacity
|Nearest Port
|Export Percentage
|No.of Employees in Trade Department
|Language Spoken:
|b)Factory Information
|Factory Size:
|No. of Production Lines
|Contract Manufacturing
|Product Price Range


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Black History Month: Slave Narratives Include Story of Native American Slave
Indian Country Today
February is Black History Month, and The Library of Congress has published a series of testimonies from slaves called Born in Slavery: Slave Narratives from the Federal Writers' Project, 1936-1938. Among them is the story of an American Indian born into slavery.
The interview with George Fortman lays out a complicated family history that begins with his great-grandparents, who lived in the Wabash Valley of Indiana in the 1830s, before forced relocation sent them south, across the Mississippi to Alabama, where they became slaves.
Fortman describes his ancestors as "John Hawk, a Blackhawk Indian brave, and Racheal, a Chackatau maiden had made themselves a home such as only Indians know." John Hawk was a warrior who followed the great Black Hawk and Racheal was of Choctaw decent.
The relocation Fortman mentions could have stemmed from the Miami treaties of November 6, 1838, part of the U.S. government's efforts to purge the Native population from Indiana.
His astonishing story includes incest, rape and murder, and his eventual freedom.
The pages of the interview are presented below as images courtesy of the Library of Congress, Manuscript Division.


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COLUMBUS -- The number of verified bobcat sightings in Ohio in 2012 increased to 169, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). This marks the third consecutive year that more 100 verified bobcat sightings were recognized in the state.
ODNR Division of Wildlife biologists verified 136 and 106 sightings in 2011 and 2010, respectively. Of the 169 verified sightings in 2012, most occurred in Noble County and the counties immediately adjacent. Overall, observers in 31 counties reported a verified bobcat sighting.
To report a bobcat sighting, call 800-WILDLIFE (945-3543) or email email@example.com. Sightings are verified by ODNR Division of Wildlife biologists and have increased steadily during the last decade. The bobcat is listed as a threatened species in Ohio and is protected by state law.
Bobcats once roamed across Ohio, but they were extirpated around 1850 as more people settled within the state. A handful of unverified bobcat sightings in the 1960s announced the return of the species. Bobcat sightings have been verified in 43 counties since 1970, with unverified sightings in 84 counties.
A bobcat may be verified with photographs of the animal or its tracks; road kill recovery and sightings by ODNR Division of Wildlife personnel; and encounters through incidental trappings, which are followed by the animal's release. The number of bobcat sightings confirmed from trail cameras has increased dramatically since 2006, and most verified sightings in 2012 were documented by these cameras.
The ODNR Division of Wildlife uses technology to clarify estimated bobcat populations because it is rare to see them in the wild. To help them with their research, biologists use remote cameras and scent stations. GPS radio collars are used to track the location of bobcats after catching and releasing them.
Efforts to learn more about the locations of bobcats are supported by the Endangered Species and Wildlife Diversity Fund. Ohioans give donations to this fund through the state income tax check-off program and by purchasing cardinal license plates. People may also make donations at wildohio.com.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at ohiodnr.gov.


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Read this article in which Adam Schefter, a writer who has begun to bother me, tries to argue that New England is borrowing the Cowboys title of America's Team this year. I'll agree that we are all interested in whether New England can go 16-0 and they are an impressive team, but America's Team wouldn't cheat, they wouldn't be led by a wanker of a coach and they wouldn't have dirty players like Vince Wilfork (dirtiest hit of the season on Losman) and Rodney "fine me" Harrison. Yes, they are undefeated and are an impressive team, but no, they are not America's Team and they will never obtain that title as long as Sweatshirt Belichick roams the sidelines. (Of course, I would also argue that Jerry Jones' obnoxiousness should eliminate Dallas from consideration too – leaving the Packers as the only logical choice).
Tags: Dallas Cowboys, football, Green Bay Packers, New England Patriots, NFL


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Vocational Education
Vocational education-sometimes referred to as occupational or technical education-is an organized educational program that trains individuals for paid or unpaid employment or for additional preparation for a career that does not require a baccalaureate or advanced degree. The federal Smith-Hughes Act of 1917 made funds available to North Carolina and other states that supported vocational education; these funds, subsequently controlled by the State Board of Education, helped facilitate the growth of occupational training programs throughout the state. In 1963 North Carolina's community college system was created, establishing a statewide system of institutions that offer adults technical, vocational, and adult education programs in a variety of fields. In 1977 the General Assembly passed a law that formally recognized the importance of vocational education in the state's public education system. Vocational education is available in the public secondary schools, community colleges, and teacher education programs within the university system.
Governor's Study Commission on the Public School System of North Carolina, Occupational Education for the Public Schools of North Carolina (1968).
E. Michael Latta, The North Carolina Story (1989).
1 January 2006 | Latta, E. Michael
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By Elaine Mejia, NC Budget & Tax Center
At a time when the state is strapped for cash and mom-and-pop businesses are struggling to stay open, it makes no sense for North Carolina to continue allowing large multi-state corporations to avoid paying their fair share of taxes. That's why the General Assembly needs to level the playing field between small and large businesses and force these corporations to play by the rules by implementing "mandatory combined reporting."
Combined reporting simply requires corporations to be honest when filing state corporate income taxes. Current tax law in North Carolina allows parent corporations and their subsidiaries to file separate tax returns, which enables them to move profits out of the state. This way, they avoid paying for the roads they use to transport their goods, the schools that educate their workers, and the police officers who protect their property.
Now, during the budget process, is when state leaders need to consider this change. Because enactment of combined reporting is a policy change that raises additional state tax revenues, it does not require a separate piece of legislation in order to be considered and adopted. It just needs to be included in the finance package of either the house or senate budgets and then in the final budget package approved by both chambers and sent to the governor.
The Current Law
North Carolina levies a 6.9% tax on corporate profits generated from doing business within the state's borders. In fiscal year 2006-07 the corporate income tax generated $1.4 billion in revenue for the state's general fund.
Most large corporations have a parent company and subsidiaries. Some corporations artificially and intentionally take advantage of their structure in order to move profits from one subsidiary to another in order to avoid state taxes. Combined reporting treats the parent and subsidiaries as a single company for the purposes of state income taxes, nullifying these tax-avoidance strategies. Small businesses that operate only in North Carolina cannot take advantage of these strategies and therefore are at a competitive disadvantage.
It is difficult to estimate how much additional tax revenue would be generated if the state implemented combined reporting, particularly since the Secretary of Revenue has the ability to require specific corporations to file combined reports. However, when states have prepared estimates they have generally concluded that the adoption of combined reporting would increase revenue from the corporate income tax receipts by 10 to 25 percent. In 2007, an economist with the North Carolina Institute for Emerging Issues estimated the state would gain $144 million in additional tax revenues.
Several bipartisan bodies and expert tax policy organizations have endorsed combined reporting, including the Multi-State Tax Commission, the Income Tax Subcommittee of the State and Local Fiscal Modernization Commission and the Revenue Laws Study committee of the General Assembly. In addition, the NC Department of Revenue has requested this policy change from the General Assembly.
Combined Reporting in Other States
A recent study by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities examined North Carolina' s largest manufacturing employers and determined that the vast majority of them (60 of 75) maintain a facility in at least one state that mandates combined reporting. In fact, many of the corporations examined maintain facilities in multiple combined-reporting states. CBPP found that almost half — 36 out of 75 — have facilities in five or more combined reporting states. Therefore, claims that switching to mandatory combined reporting would negatively affect business activity in North Carolina are unfounded.
The majority of states that levy corporate income taxes have instituted mandatory combined reporting. In this year alone, Florida and Wisconsin have made the switch, so now 24 of the 45 states with corporate-income and similar business taxes have implemented this common-sense policy.
The Legal Threat
Failing to enact combined reporting has left North Carolina vulnerable to costly tax litigation. Current law allows the NC Secretary of Revenue to select certain corporations and force them to file a combined report if he suspects the company is using the ability to file separate reports for related entities as a way to avoid paying the appropriate amount of state income taxes. Since gaining this authority a few years ago, the Secretary has forced dozens of corporations to do so, resulting in more than $370 million back taxes paid.
Several corporations, including Wal-Mart and Food Lion (Delhaize), have challenged the state's ability to force only selected organizations to file combined reports, claiming that requiring this of some but not all corporations violates the US constitution. If North Carolina loses on the basis of this claim, it will have to repay the more than $370 million it has collected. Moreover, the amount of potential liability to the state grows each year that North Carolina fails to enact mandatory combined reporting for all corporations.


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The green heart of Japan
For hundreds of years, samurai and merchants traveled Japan's legendary Nakasendo road and asked the gods of the Mount Ontake for their blessing. Little has changed today.
I stand on the mountain, sweating, gasping for breath. My T-shirt sticks to my skin, my thighs quiver. Countless steps stretch away below me, and up ahead? Countless more. I have to overcome some 500 meters of elevation before I reach the top of Mount Ontake, Japan's second-highest volcano after Mount Fuji. I'm at roughly 2500 meters, but ready to curse Fukito Katsuno, the teahouse owner who put me up to this.
My trip started in Nagoya, a city of over a million. What drew me to it was neither the huge department stores nor the fried grasshoppers at the railway station restaurant but the Japanese Alps northwest of the city, which are said to be wonderful for hiking, particularly in the fall, when the leaves turn bright colors. So I board the bus to Magome, a picturesque mountain village in the almost 70-kilometer-long Kiso Valley, through which the Kiso River meanders. Fly fishers catch brook trout here, fruit growers harvest apples and grapes. Due to its seclusion, the region has been spared industrialization, a building boom, and the devastation of war. It's hard to believe that one of Japan's most important trade routes once led right through here: Nakasendō, meaning "road through the central mountains." It was built by the ruling Tokugawa shōgun in the 17th century to link the imperial city of Kyōto with the capital, Edo (present-day Tokyo). Nobles, samurai, merchants and messengers on horseback used the road during the Edo period (1603 to 1868). Magome, where I began my hike, had one of the 69 mail stations along the roughly 540-kilometer route.
As I start out, the sky is clear. A typhoon had swept the clouds away the day before. The Nakasendō trail winds uphill, flanked by two-story houses built in the traditional half-timber style. The lower stories are covered in cypresswood paneling. Pink balloon flowers and purple hydrangea provide splashes of color. Magome feels like it belongs to another time, except that, instead of samurai, you see Western tourists in the narrow streets, going in and out of small shops selling wooden bowls and chopsticks, herbal medicines and fried rice balls.
Outside of the village, a small street intersects the Nakasendō trail, forming a boundary that many tourists do not cross. The twittering of birds soon replaces the confusion of voices. I walk towards Tsumago village, some eight kilometers away. To my right, a rice farmer is covering his plants with blue plastic film; to my left, another farmer in a conical straw hat is walking through her tea garden, where she has a trout pond.
If you want to understand our culture, you should climb the mountain, too
Soon, a mountain panorama opens out before me, the peak of Mount Ontake rising above it some 30 kilometers away. The scene looks so peaceful, but the volcano is still active and erupted last in 2014. I ponder whether 17th-century travelers appreciated this beauty, or was the journey just too arduous in those days? Did they ring little bells to keep the bears away as the signs still caution? Did they fear the bewitched foxes and badgers that are said to inhabit the forest? The local feudal lords, at any rate, did not travel by choice. According to the shōgun's decree, they had to spend a certain period of time in Edo every year, something they also did in order to see their families, who had to live in the capital, like hostages. This is how the shōguns secured their power: A subject who was forced to spend weeks on the road had neither the time nor the money to start a rebellion.
After a good hour's walking, I reach a pass at 800 meters after which the trail turns downhill. Here and there, the thick forest of elm, fir and cherry trees is dwarfed by tall sawara and hinoki cypresses, which can grow to a height of 40 meters. Rays of sunlight slant through the leafy roof above my head, piercing the gloom. The tang of resin hangs heavy in the air, and I hear the nearby rushing of a mountain torrent. Then the forest opens up to reveal a wind-combed cornfield – and a teahouse.
Fukito Katsuno, 78, has been volunteering at the 250-year-old wooden teahouse for the last eight years. He prepares green tea for hikers and talks about the days when traveling samurai stopped to pray before the statues of gods in the garden. "They came into contact with the Ontake faith in the Kiso Valley and then spread it throughout Japan," says Katsuno. In the late 17th century, the Ontake belief system developed from the Shugendō faith that combined Shinto beliefs with Buddhist practices. According to Ontake, divine energy manifests itself in nature, in trees and mountains. Katsuno serves us more tea from his iron teapot. "The Nakasendō trail was dangerous, there was always a risk of being robbed or catching a disease," he explains. "Travelers were convinced they would never reach Edo without the help of the gods. So they climbed to the top of Mount Ontake, where the earth and the sky meet. If you want to understand our past and our culture, you should climb the mountain, too." We said our goodbyes and I continued on toward Tsumago. After another hour, I reached the former mail station with its old Edo architecture. Here, too: shops, tourists, people milling around. Pushing through the crowd, I decide to follow the pilgrims and climb Mount Ontake.
Hiking the Japanese Alps
1 Nagoya
2 Magome
3 Teahouse Tateba
4 Tsumago
5 Ropeway
6 Teahouse Nyonindo
7 Mount Ontake
The next morning, waiting for the cable car that will take me up to 2150 meters, I feel that I have crossed another boundary: There's not a single Westerner standing in line here, just Japanese people of every age, some of them holding sticks, others carrying bear bells or even helmets. When I arrive at the mountain station, I understand why. What I had imagined would be an easy woodland trail turns out to be an arduous climb – up a flight of steps made of tree stumps. Which explains why I was huffing and puffing after my hour's worth of upper-thigh workout.
"Konnichiwa," says an elderly pilgrim in greeting. This is his fifth climb up the mountain, he tells me. "I did it to keep fit at first, but then I began to feel the presence of the gods." Would he reveal his age to me? "I'm 80," he replies with an indulgent smile. That's just the incentive I need right now. My lungs have become accustomed to the thin air and my senses are acutely aware of their surroundings. Fir trees and Japanese stone pines are interspersed with glades of waist-high maidenhair fern amid maple and ginkgo trees with brilliant yellow and red leaves.
In another teahouse, 2800 meters up, I meet two yamabushi – mountain monks – dressed all in white but for the eldest man whose turquoise pants reveal his status as a priest. Every month, he says, he travels here from Nagano to be close to the gods and because, for the yamabushi, exertion leads to enlightenment. I ask him whether the gods will bless me, too. "Gods don't differentiate between religions," the priest replies, "they just check to make sure your heart is pure." He takes me to a stone gateway where two Kami Buddha figures sit enthroned. We bow deeply and reverentially drop coins into the bowls in front of them. I pray for a successful ascent and feel much more confident about the final stretch.
The climb becomes less steep and small bushes take the place of trees. I can see the summit house in the distance, probably three quarters of an hour away. I spot a small plateau and cannot resist a final rest. In front of me, the Japanese Alps crest skyward like waves. Behind me, stone tablets welcome the gods on earth. I lie down on a bed of zigzag bamboo, stare at the sky and spot clouds shaped like dogs and flowers. When was the last time I looked for cloud shapes in the sky? When have I ever pushed my body so far that it stubbornly refuses to go one step further? I realize now that I will never reach the peak. The muted sound of a conch shell that signals the arrival of pilgrims suddenly alerts me to the silence. A feeling of timelessness envelops me. If there is such a thing as peace, that's what I feel right now. A group of pilgrims passes at a jog, their bear bells tinkling. Let them go. I've reached my goal already.
Traveling on foot in Japan
3776 Meters
The height of Mount Fuji, the legendary symbol of Japan.
13 Meters
The height of the bronze Buddha statue beside the Daibutsu trail.
1700 Kilometers
The length of the Tōkai trail, the longest in Japan. It passes through eleven prefectures.
36.60 Meters
The length of the wooden Kappa Bridge at the heart of the Kamikōchi Valley hiking area.
Getting there
Lufthansa is offering up to five daily flights from Frankfurt (FRA) to Nagoya (NGO). Use the app to calculate your miles. Download here: www.miles-and-more.com/app


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Last Updated: Oct 04, 2016
Set up your Apple iPhone 4s as a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Yes, your Apple iPhone 4s can connect to most Bluetooth-enabled devices.
Your Apple iPhone 4s is compatible with Bluetooth v4.0 with A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HID, MAP, PAN, and PBAP.
Siri is an on-device personal assistant. Siri follows spoken instructions to send messages, search the web, place phone calls, and complete other tasks.
Apple App Store is a multimedia content service where you can buy applications and games for your Apple device.
Your Apple iPhone 4s can record video in HD (High Definition), up to 1080p.


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R699.00 Incl VAT
Our Uncapped Gold product is perfect for the user that needs a bit more data than the average family.
Once you reach your 500 Gig soft cap your speed will reduce to 2 Mbps for the remainder of the month while still allowing you to browse and do your essential online business.
Data usage between midnight and 6am does not count toward your FUP limit.


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The title sounds like a cryptic line from "Wall Street" (think "Blue Horseshoe loves Anacot Steel) - but it's true... Cindy Morgan, the real Laci Underall of Caddyshack fame has recently been bitten by the Golf bug. For more insights into "Laci", what she has been up to, and her fond memories of making Caddyshack, keep reading, because Cindy was kind enough to sit down with us this week for a chat.
Believe me fellas, you will want to hear what she has to say-you may still have a shot...
Believe me fellas, you will want to hear what she has to say-you may still have a shot...
Judge Smails: Welcome (back) to Bushwood, Laci - it's been a long time since we have seen you around here.
Cindy: Uh, my name is Cindy Morgan - Laci Underall was a CHARACTER that I played in the movie - by the way, why are your eyes glazed over ?
Judge Smails / Me: (coming to my senses) -uh, oh, of course....sorry. Cindy, thanks for taking time to talk to us here at Bushwood CC. Let's get started - sorry for that momentary lapse....
- How did you get the role of Laci Underall ? Well, I am a Chicago girl, and prior to working in film I was an on-air radio personality at a Chicagoland station. After a while, I decided to try acting, so I moved to Los Angeles, hired an agent, and started looking for work. Believe it or not, I scored the Caddyshack role within my first 8 months in the business.
- Who else was a candidate for the role ? As I understand it, there was one other strong candidate who had actually been promised the role - Sarah Holcomb (girlfriend of Brian Doyle Murray, and ultimately Danny Noonan's on-screen love interest Maggie). I did not find out about that until the last audition, and by then I had completely decided that I had to take an "all or nothing " approach to getting the role.
- What is one thing that you have in common with Laci ? Hmmmm, that's a good one. Well, I went to Catholic School for 12 years, so I cannot say that I had a lot of "real life" experiences that would have rivaled Laci's. However, we all have a "fantasy side", and that's what I drew on to create Laci. Laci likes to have fun with people, and always keep them wondering what she will do next - she enjoys life to it's fullest. I am fortunate that people found me believable portraying that in the role.
- Your character Laci personified "SEXY" for an entire generation of (us) men - how did that effect your personal life going forward ? Quite a lot,actually. I did not work for over a year after Caddyshack - and there is an interesting story behind that. When I took the role, I was also working as the "Irish Spring" girl in their commercials - so my image was very important. I was aware that the script has a nude scene in it - which I was ok with, because I knew that still photos could not be captured from the film(at that time), and that was all I was concerned about. Imagine my surprise when I heard that a Playboy photographer was going to be on set when we were filming the scene. The short version is that I put my foot down, and said that only the camera guy, the director, and the two people in the scene were going to be on set - or I would walk. I eventually won the argument - but it cost me. Any mention of "Laci" or Cindy Morgan was removed from the promotional materials, and I was sort of "black balled" in the business for a while, but I still know that I did the right thing.
- When you are out in public, do people ever call you "Laci", or shout out old Caddyshack lines ? At the market - no, but at public appearances, people often call me "Laci". The Caddyshack references don't start until we get to the "back 9" in Charity events and the guys playing have had a couple (dozen) beers... it gets a little rowdy then !
- Is Chevy Chase really that funny ? Absolutely - he is hilarious. I was very lucky to have most of my scenes with Chevy - he is a really smart guy and his wit as sharp on and off camera.
- Do you play golf ? I JUST started 2 years ago. My putting and chipping are good, and I am working on hitting my tee shots better now...but I really enjoy playing.
- Tell us something about filming Caddyshack that will surprise us : Caddyshack was filmed shortly after "Animal House" was released, and you probably noticed that there were a few folks in Caddyshack who were also in Animal House (trivia item - Dean Wormer's promiscuous daughter was none other than Sara Holcomb - aka Maggie, the Irish lass of Danny's affection). Filming Caddyshack was a bit like Animal House on the golf course - no one had ANY idea that the movie would be a hit, but we were all having a REALLY good time.
- Men all over the world want to know what kind of guy snagged Laci Underall - tell us about him: I am still looking for Mr. Perfect - I've had a number of special people in my life - but have not found the right guy yet. (ed. note - she is still HOT !)
- We all know that much of the script was improvised - tell us the funniest moment that you remember: Watching Ted Knight and Rodney Dangerfield work together was unbelievably funny. It was Rodney's first movie, and he was sweating every scene - nervous as could be. Ted was really getting into the whole "Judge Smails" thing (ed. note - I know, so was I). Probably the funniest thing was watching how Rodney (who was only originally supposed to have a cameo role) eventually stole the whole show, while Ted sort of smoldered - I think some of the frustration you saw the Judge express toward Al/Rodney was real !
- You spent much of the movie in a very memorable outfit - a rather formfitting "tennis outfit" that made many a teenage boy feel....well, never mind, tell us about the outfit. SLOWLY : Ha Ha - you got a little nervous there yourself,Cash. Remember this was 1979, and women all over America were "braless and proud" - so my wardrobe was nothing that was uncommon at the time, it just seems to have "stuck" in the memory of a lot of people (ed. note - no shizz - more like BRANDED )
- Two activities that Laci enjoyed - skinny skiing and attending bull fights on acid - which one is your favorite ? Ha - well, in real life I've done neither - but I am SURE that Laci was quite experienced at both of them...
- Are you still a blonde ? Absolutely....
- Who was your favorite cast member ? I really enjoyed working with a lot of them, but if I had to pick one, it would be Bill Murray. Watching him become "Carl" was simply hilarious.
- Swimming pool scene - you wore a one- piece. Why wasn't was a bikini ever considered ? If you really think about Laci, she sort of took the "classic Country Club look" and then pushed the flirty side at every turn. The one- piece fit her personality - a bikini would have been too "obvious" for Laci. Plus, it's what the wardrobe folks wanted to use...(ed. note DAMN them!)
Cindy - Thanks for taking time to speak with us today. It has been a huge pleasure spending time with you. Check out more on Cindy here.


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Greetings, Roleplayers!
Additions to the C-C Roleplay should be posted here. Any questions regarding the C-C Roleplay should be posted in this thread.
Thanks and Happy Roleplaying!
Sir Dractor looked skeptical, but took the chain.
"Fourth from your left hand. That will be the fourth from the south. In Royal Knight territory."
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GE makes $10,000 donation to Boys & Girls Club
For the third year, GE Measurement & Control has sponsored the Boys & Girls Club of Carson Valley, this year by donating $10,000 for operations and programs.
The organization provides care and guidance to 500 children of the Carson Valley and "is critical to the development and success to the community's youth."
"We're honored to be a supporter of this great organization which brings happiness, support and life skills to many children in the Carson Valley," said Landon Boyer, Boys & Girls Club board member and product manager at Bently Nevada, the product line headquartered in Minden. "Through the work that the Boys & Girls Club does, the children in our community are given opportunities to succeed and grow in many ways."
"We are ever grateful for the generous support of our larger community including GE," said Renea Louie, charter board member and first vice president of the club. Their donations over the last several years and partnership make the work of the club possible. Each contribution helps to make a profound impact on the programming, facilities and, most importantly, our ability to improve the lives of the members.
"Our doors are open every day, providing a safe space for the children to learn and grow. We also keep our annual membership fees low, and no child is turned away because of an inability to pay. In order to support these efforts, continue the ambitious programming and provide fun, unforgettable opportunities like field trips and summer camps, we need the entire community's support, and GE leads the way in setting the example and taking care of its community."
Art Eunson, general manager of Bently Nevada, commented on the continued support of GE employees.
"Our employees are strong supporters of the youth in Douglas County, whether it be through donations, volunteering or sharing their time and expertise with community groups," he said. "We're fortunate to be able to partner with the Boys & Girls Club to enhance this commitment to community and children."
GE Measurement & Control is an innovator in advanced, sensor-based measurement, nondestructive testing and inspection, control and condition monitoring, delivering accuracy, productivity and safety to a wide range of industries, including oil and gas, power generation, aerospace, transportation and healthcare. It has more than 40 facilities in 25 countries and is part of GE Energy, which provides efficient energy solutions for its customers.
For more information, visit http://www.ge-mcs.com.
Edward Jones ranks fourth in top workplaces
The financial services firm Edward Jones recently was named the No. 4 small company on the Nevada Top Workplaces ranking, according to four Carson Valley Edward Jones financial advisors.
Edward Jones has 60 branches all over Nevada. The firm is growing, adding branches and seeking new financial advisors who are interested in operating an entrepreneurial office with the support and benefits of one of the oldest and largest firms in the industry.
The ranking was based on an employer inventory of practices and an anonymous survey of employees, who were asked to agree or disagree with dozens of statements about the firm, teamwork and their individual experience at the firm.
This was Edward Jones' first entry in the Nevada Top Workplaces competition.
For more information, visit http://www.edwardjones.com.
Nevada nonprofits receive $3.2 million from Smith's
Smith's Food & Drug has released its 2012 report highlighting donations of $10 million worth of cash and products given to more than 2,200 nonprofit organizations in seven western states of Smith's operations.
The total includes $3.2 million contributed to 315 schools and nonprofit charities in Nevada.
The company's charitable giving program known as "Neighbor to Neighbor" provided an average donation of nearly $75,000 per store location throughout Smith's seven western states of operation. The support also includes contributions from the Kroger Foundation, Smith's parent company, suppliers, associates and customers through in-store fundraising promotions.
Smith's assistance is primarily focused in the following areas: fighting hunger, supporting K-12 education, children's hospitals, promoting women's health, primarily breast cancer, the development of minorities and women and support for local grassroots organizations. The report summarizes the company's social philanthropy and lists specific organizations by state supported last year. The 2012 report is available online at http://www.smithscommunity.com.
"Having partners like Smith's who are committed to helping those in our community is priceless," said Brian Burton, CEO and president of Three Square Food Bank. "Their generous donations help us provide wholesome, nutritious food to those less fortunate."
"Our associates help us to reach out in meaningful ways within the community," said Mark Tuffin, Smith's president. "We work with both our vendors and customers to support many nonprofit organizations in their service to others."
Smith's is a division of the Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR), one of the nation's largest retail grocers. From its headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah, Smith's manages 131 stores and 75 fuel centers throughout Nevada, New Mexico Utah, Wyoming, Montana, northern Arizona and southern Idaho.
For more information, visit http://www.smithsfoodanddrug.com.


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djhomeless necesitaba un nuevo diseño de página web y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 8 diseños de 1 diseñadores freelance.
We run a cool social search service.
Looking for a solid CSS hacker who has a good eye for UX. JavaScript ability is a plus, but not an issue either. Deliverable once awarded should be in clean HTML and CSS. Would prefer existing classes be used wherever possible.
We need to modify our homepage to something similar to Bing, ie a clean and simple page dominated by a single background image.
No new design elements are needed, just re-hashing and simplifying of existing stuff.
www dot nsyght dot com
Elements needed:
1. New homepage with a single image background, similar to bing.
- single search box
- space top right for a tag line
- two search buttons, one asking users to "search everyone" another to "search your friends"
- single text link on the top right of the page, to "login"
- copy of our current footer on the bottom
- placement of our current logo on the top left of the page
- if color is an issue for the search box, the grey shaded area we use on e homepage may be used to help the box stand out
2. Small popup that displays a rehash of our current login options (facebook, Twitter, etc). This will appear via js when the user selects "search my friends"
3. New CSS class to introduce a background color to our social posts (current background is white). No other style or layout changes needed, color is meant to stand out while not being obtrusive, so a soft yellow or cream would work fine.
Unfortunately due to time constraints, I must select a winner before the end of the weekend.
I will upload the image to be used shortly, the image on our current homepage is what we will use (but it is cropped for space considerations)


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Tim Tebow to Jaguars rumors reignited
Fans divided among signing QB
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Tim-Tebow-to-the-Jaguars rumors have reignited this week, thanks to several Internet reports.
WJXT-TV reports it appears that's exactly what they are at this point: rumors. The Jaguars have given no credence to picking up one of the most scrutinized players of all time.
Those in support of signing the former Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback and hometown hero say, "Why not?"
The Jaguars are 0-4, have scored a combined five points in two home games and are the laughing stock of the NFL.
Some wonder if the team will be just the second in league history to go 0-16 (2008 Detroit Lions). Others are already comparing them to the worst teams ever.
It appears the team can't get any worse, so some Jaguars fans say they would at least like to see Tebow under center, raising the interest of the team.
Tebowmania, as it's referred to, spiked when the former Florida Gators QB took over for the Denver Broncos during the 2011 season and led them to the playoffs and a first-round victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Tebow was later traded to the New York Jets and has since been an afterthought nationally.
Not everyone is in favor of bringing him to Jacksonville. When general manager David Caldwell was hired, he said he did not foresee any circumstance in which the Jags would sign Tebow, even if he were released. Tebow was a member of the Jets at the time and was later released. He signed with the Patriots but was eventually cut before this season.
Fans say Tebow wouldn't fit into a pro-style system the Jaguars are trying to run. Others, however, say the Jaguars aren't productive anyway.
Many sports pundits around the country have said the Jaguars should sign Tebow for the sake of the fans and what they're having to watch.
But the Jaguars don't appear to be budging and are sticking with their plan to rebuild a franchise from the ground up, with first-year head coach Gus Bradley at the helm.
Time will only tell if the rumors are substantiated or if they are just another reason to keep the conversation going.
The Jags' play at St. Louis at 1 p.m. Sunday.
It's unknown where Tebow will be Sunday afternoon.
Copyright 2013 by ClickOrlando.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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By DAVID GREEN
The estimated cost of a wind turbine at Fayette school's campus came in much higher than expected, but superintendent Russ Griggs isn't convinced the cost will run that high.
Griggs told school board members Monday that the district's construction manager pegged the cost at $1.2 million, which is 20 percent above previous estimates.
The same construction firm estimated the cost of the new school much higher than the actual, Griggs said, and he wonders if the same thing will happen with the turbine.
Griggs said the district has a million dollars to devote to the project through a grant and leftover construction funds.
"We want to push it to a bid to see what the real numbers would be," Griggs said. "I don't think you really know until you push it to a bid."
If the numbers still come in high, he said, alternatives could be considered such as a smaller turbine.
"I don't want to give up on this," he added.
He and treasurer Kelly Bentley are expecting a conference call with the construction manager to review funding sources and come up with solid figures.
Estimates for demolition of the old school buildings also came in high, Griggs said, and up to $200,000 remains in that fund. He would like to convince state officials to move that to the turbine fund.
Board member David Brinegar asked about the time needed to put a turbine into service.
Once the foundation is complete, Griggs said the tower and turbine can be erected in a day and the system commissioned within a week.
NEW TRUSTEE—The board will discuss the appointment of a new member at the Dec. 14 meeting, to take the place of the retiring Paula Schaffner. No one sought to fill the post in the recent election.
Any district resident willing to serve on the board should submit a letter of interest by Dec. 7. The board will discuss candidates at the Dec. 14 meeting (one week earlier than normal due to the holiday break) and appoint a new member in January.
The new trustee will serve a two-year term. After that, the position will return to the regular four-year term of office.
Griggs reminded the board that they wouldn't be required to select someone from those who applied. They could go outside that pool of candidates to fill the position.
(Buy an on-line subscription for full article)


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Eli's Marc Schulman and Korey Grace serving Eli's Couture Cheesecake at the Park West; Joining Chicago Food Icons Malnati's Pizza and Billy Goat Hamburgers.
Gilda's Club has great support from its Associate Board, the Media, Sports Celebrities, Authors and Chicago Food Icons who came together at Park West to support the organization.
Eli's Marc Schulman on stage with members of the Second City and Chicago Restaurateurs, Sam Sianis of Billy Goat's and Marc Malnati of Lou Malnati's.


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Maine governor to union: 'You are lying' about state government shutdown
AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) � Gov. Paul LePage is accusing the Maine State Employees Association of trying to scare people with talk of a possible government shutdown.
The union representing state workers warned in a letter May 6 that agencies were directed to prepare plans "for an inevitable shutdown."
The blunt-speaking Republican governor met with union representatives Monday and said he told the union's chief counsel that "you are lying."
LePage says there's no secret plan to prepare for a shutdown in the event legislators and the governor fail to agree on a budget plan. He said that if the Legislature fails to adopt his budget then the union should talk to lawmakers, not him.


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Enroll for ISACA's CRISC ™ Certification training course in Mauritius from Invensis Learning. Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control™ (CRISC™) is the most current and rigorous assessment which is presently available to evaluate the risk management proficiency of IT professionals and other employees within an enterprise or financial institute.
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