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John Lorinc
John Lorinc is a Toronto-based journalist who covers urban affairs for The Globe and Mail, Spacing magazine, and The Walrus.
It was an $8.4 billion question that had simmered all year, but finally boiled over this week at Toronto City Hall during a no-holds-barred debate that may well determine the future of city's transit expansion.*
For years, Toronto struggled to modernize and expand its transit system, which now carries about 500 million riders annually, making the Toronto Transit Commission one of North America's most heavily used networks. In 2007, the city's former mayor David Miller and the Ontario government did a multi-billion dollar deal that would see the construction of an extensive light-rail network serving the city's post-war suburbs.
But the current mayor, Rob Ford, ran on a subway-building platform in 2010. He vowed to kill Miller's LRT plan because, he told voters, it would take up valuable road space and exacerbate traffic congestion. Upon taking office, Ford declared that Miller's LRT strategy was "dead."
Instead, he negotiated a non-binding agreement with the provincial government to build a buried LRT extending for 19 km beneath Eglinton Avenue, one of Toronto's main thoroughfares, at a cost of $8.4 billion. He also pledged to construct a subway on another suburban arterial, Sheppard Avenue, to be funded mainly with private investment, development charges and tax increment financing.
The wrinkle in Ford's plan was that it needed city council's approval. But a growing number of his political critics, as well as many local transit experts, felt that neither project was viable. No other LRT, considered Canada's largest infrastructure project, operates below grade over such a long distance. As for the subway, a KPMG study predicted budget shortfalls of up to $1 billion, even after accounting for revenues from development-related sources.
Intense controversy over major transit plans is hardly unique to Toronto. The Atlantic Cites contributor Yonah Freemark, who curates The Transport Politic, has a generous selection of recent examples on his blog, among them: the dispute over whether to extend the Washington Metro's Silver line all the way to Dulles International; the ongoing fights over high-speed rail in California and the U.K.; and the running battle over a downtown light-rail line for Detroit. In Los Angeles a few years back, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, in his drive to secure long-term funding for a massive rapid transit network, had to stare down an outspoken citizens coalition that argued the projects would suck resources out of the city's bus fleet.
In Toronto, the debate pivoted around a question that now confounds many large cities: how to deliver higher-order, cost-effective transit in low density suburbs: with subways or LRTs? The Pembina Institute, an environmental think tank, analyzed the competing plans and concluded that a network of LRTs on the proposed thoroughfares would serve 120,000 more residents and cost about 30 percent less to build than digging tunnels for a subway line and a buried LRT.
But Ford and others on the pro-subway side argued that large swaths of suburban Toronto, especially in the former borough of Scarborough, have had to make do with decades of bus service but very little in the way of rapid transit.
Earlier this week, Councillor Karen Stintz, who serves as the TTC chair and generally supports the mayor's agenda, forced a vote to decide between the two configurations. During an intense council debate that lasted from 9am to 7:30 pm, Stintz argued that it doesn't make fiscal sense to bury LRT lines, at considerable expense, in areas where they can run on the surface in their own right-of-way. The savings, she stressed, could be used to deliver LRT service elsewhere in the city's first ring suburbs.
In the end, council supported Stintz, handing Ford a huge defeat that seriously undermines his ability to deliver a key campaign pledge. (The final call ultimately rests with the provincial government that put up the funding.) But the decision reflects the experience of a growing number of international cities that have discovered it is ultimately more cost-effective to build LRT (or bus rapid transit) in lower-density areas on the urban periphery.
Photo credit: Mark Blinch/Reuters
*An earlier version of this post incorrectly stated the timing of the Toronto Hall City meeting.
Two new studies have revived the long-running debate over how police respond to white criminal suspects versus African Americans.
Despite new research on police brutality, we still have no idea whether violence toward African Americans is fueled by racial prejudice. That has consequences.
Stressful commutes, unexpected routines, and emergent wildlife appear in your homemade maps of life during the coronavirus pandemic.
To stay protected from Covid-19 on buses, trains and planes, experts say to focus more on distance from fellow passengers than air ventilation or surfaces.
Even before coronavirus, many workers hated the open-plan office. Now that shared work spaces are a public health risk, employers are rethinking office design.


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NICEVILLE � Crestview did it. Finally getting that elusive win against Niceville, Crestview ended a 30-year drought and knocked the Eagles from the ranks of the unbeaten.
NICEVILLE � Crestview did it.
Finally getting that elusive win against Niceville, Crestview ended a 30-year drought and knocked the Eagles from the ranks of the unbeaten.
Quarterback Corey Armstrong had a pair of touchdowns, Crestview's defense forced five turnovers and seven sacks and the Bulldogs defeated the sixth-ranked, undefeated Eagles 17-12 on Friday night at Eagle Stadium, a venue that on Monday will play host to a three-team shootout to decide which two teams from District 1-7A will advance to the postseason.
See photos of Crestview-Niceville >>
"We've had such bad luck this year," Crestview Coach Tim Hatten, whose team entered the contest 2-4 in games decided by a possession, said. "Everyone talks how it�s been 30 years since we beat them ... but the players have only been around for so long and I'm new here. I'm just happy for them. They needed this."
See video from the Crestview-Niceville game >>
The Bulldogs will once again travel to Eagle Stadium along with Tate on Monday. They'll play the Aggies in a one-quarter matchup, and the winner advances to face Niceville for the district crown. If Niceville were to then lose to the winner, the Eagles would play the loser of Tate-Crestview for district runner-up honors.
"It means everything to us," Armstrong said of the second chance. "We get another chance to play and we can't wait to come back here."
The Bulldogs (4-5) hadn't beaten the Eagles (8-1) since 1982, and had lost six straight years in the county rivalry.
There were some close calls recently, most notably the 28-26 loss in 2008, the 28-27 loss in 2010 and the 20-10 defeat two years ago, but last year marked a low for Crestview when it lost 42-7 to the Eagles at home.
But on Friday, Crestview's defense wouldn't allow the Bulldogs to be on the wrong side of a rout.
Tasked with stopping a prolific offense that had yet to be held under 26 points and had topped 37 points five times, the Bulldogs held Niceville quarterbacks Ashton Hooker and Drew Frederic to just 103 yards passing and held an Eagles' rushing attack that entered the night averaging more than four touchdowns and 265 yards per contest to under 100 yards.
"Unbelievable, just unbelievable," Hatten said of his defense.
The seven sacks illustrated the never-ending pressure on the pocket, and aside from a Hooker 1-yard touchdown run on the opening drive the Bulldogs' defense bent but never broke. That was most evident when Niceville, which closed the gap to 17-12 on a 17-yard, fourth-quarter touchdown pass from Frederic to Devyn Wooley with 2:43 left to play, got the ball with 1:27 left to play but couldn't mount a game-winning drive.
Niceville's defense also shined at times, but it couldn't overcome five turnovers and hold Armstrong or Crestview running back Emmanuel Reed in check.
Armstrong, who completed 8-of-21 passes for 88 yards and a score, connected with a wide-open Jaylynne Robinson for a 32-yard score on a post route to answer Niceville's initial score and later ran for an 8-yard touchdown early in the third quarter to give the Bulldogs a 17-6 lead.
"We played a great game all round," Armstrong said. "We deserved this."
In between the scores was a 41-yard field goal by Tyler Hancock, whose kick gave the Bulldogs a 10-6 lead at halftime. Reed, meanwhile, kept the chains moving with 130 rushing yards against a Niceville defense allowing under 11 points per game on the strength of six times holding an opponent to six or fewer points.
With the loss, Niceville's dominance at Eagle Stadium is put on hold. The Eagles had outscored outscored foes 175-52 at home en route to a 3-0 record, but a Crestview team fighting for its playoff life ended that.

subset: commoncrawl


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With events and visitors throughout the year, Pax Lodge welcomes Girl Guides and Girl Scouts of all ages for tours, programmed events and overnight stays.
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Pax Lodge is open to guests all year, we'd love to see you soon. Book your stay online todayBook online now!


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Poker 語錄
"Son, we are sorry about the tuition funds...your mother and I did not know you are not supposed to split tens..." -Letters home from people visiting Reno.
"The typical gambler might not really understand the probabilistic nuances of the wheel or the dice, but such things seem a bit more tractable than, say, trying to raise a child in this lunatic society of ours." -Arthur S. Reber, The New Gambler 's Bible
"Gambling is the future on the internet. You can only look at so many dirty pictures." -Simon Noble, an Austrian-based internet bookmaker
"Your best chance to get a Royal Flush in a casino is in the bathroom." -VP Pappy (A crusty old sage that still roams the Green Felt Jungles in Detroit)
"If a man who cannot count finds a four-leaf clover, is he lucky?" -Stanislaw J. Lec
Poker is generally reckoned to be America's second most popular after-dark activity. Sex is good, they say, but poker lasts longer.
-- Alfred Alvarez (2001)
If you reraise a raiser, and he doesn't raise you back, you know he has kicker problems.
-- Crandall Addington, Texas oil millionaire (2001)
Dear Lord, help me to break even. I need the money.
-- Anonymous
A king can do no wrong … unless it runs into an ace.
-- Anonymous
Money isn't everything … unless you're playing in a rebuy tournament.
-- Anonymous
Besides lovemaking and singing in the shower, there aren't many human activities where there is a greater difference between a person's self-delusional ability and actual ability than in poker.
-- Steve Badget
Once you start thinking you have nothing left to learn, you have everything to learn.
-- Steve Badget
In the long run there's no luck in poker, but the short run is longer than most people know.
-- Rick Bennet
Trust everyone, but always cut the cards.
-- Benny Binion
The only bad luck for a good gambler is bad health. Any other setbacks are temporary aggravation.
-- Benny Binion
If you're a competitive person and you commit yourself to something, you have no choice but to endure.
-- Vince Burgio
If it were easy, everyone would do it.
-- Bonnie Damiano
The next best thing to gambling and winning is gambling and losing.
-- Nick "The Greek" Dandalos
Life is too long to play bad cards.
-- Frank Di Elsi
It's unlucky to be superstitious.
-- Dave Enteles, Card Player
The single greatest key to winning is knowing thy enemy — yourself.
-- Andy Glazer
To be a poker champion, you must have a strong bladder.
-- Jack McClelland
Gambling, the sure way of getting nothing for something.
-- Wilson Mizner, Con man and promoter
No wife can endure a gambling husband, unless he is a steady winner. -Thomas Robert Dewar
"Perception is reality." -- Immanuel Kant
"In order to live, you must be willing to die." -- Amir Vahedi
"Poker is a strange occupation. You never know how it's going to bend your personality. But likely as not, it will bend it."
-Doyle Brunson Poker Wisdom of a Champion, 2003


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And there you have it. If you make/made a Christmas arrangement, I hope you'll post a photo. I'd love to see it.
As always,
How lovely Grace. I love the red and white carnations added to the arrangement. Have a wonderful weekend.ReplyDelete
Well done and simple.ReplyDelete
Hi Grace - it's lovely - did you use painter's palette leaves in last year's arrangement? I just got one of these and thought that the leaves would look great in arrangements with all there variations.
Also really like the container you used for this year's arrangement.
Beautiful, Grace! You are so creative. What a great find that basket was!ReplyDelete
You are so smart with these table top arrangements!ReplyDelete
Grace, I think the one you made looks very professional! That is a lovely idea, thanks for sharing!ReplyDelete
I remember you made the arrangement last year. They are both very professional looking! It has been really foggy here too although the sun broke out today.ReplyDelete
So pretty Grace! You're making me miss my time in California again. Back then I bought a few flowers and made pretty Christmas arrangements with dawn redwood branches, pepper tree berries, ivy, and other greenery. But there isn't much (as in nothing!) to be found in my yard for arrangements right now. I could grow more conifers but haven't made room for any. Oh well!ReplyDelete
Grace, I love your center piece and I love gardening but not able to in our cement garden...I will just have to enjoy watching...xxReplyDelete
So pretty! I love the idea of using clippings from around the garden. : )ReplyDelete
Gorgeous Grace! I would say you could have another job in floral design if you were interested!!
I'm jealous you could create this with fresh "ingredients" from your garden too. Mine is devoid of ANY color (notice I don't count green, white or brown as colors!!) ~ I need to fix that. A splash of red would be very welcome!
Gorgeous centerpieces Grace..you make it seems o easyReplyDelete
Lovely! I'm so happy to have found your site!ReplyDelete
Hi Grace,
I love your arrangements! We finally started our Christmas shopping this evening.
I had to laugh when I read you have dreams like mine. Usually, my garden dreams have to do with seeing other people's plants coming up, and I haven't planted anything yet. In other dreams, we've moved, and I am either trying to figure out where I'm going to have garden beds, or else trying to figure out what plants are coming up that were already there.
We always wait to trim the pines until I am ready for my December greens. I like to use holly too.
Your basket turned out lovely.
Happy Christmas,
Sherry, who misses the butterfies
Oh Grace these are lovely and gosh foam!!! I wish I had realized before that foam was the way to keep these type of arrangements fresh!!!! Traditions no matter what are nice to have.
Blotanical I am thankful for bringing us together.
Oh well done Grace! I love gathering outside, even now in the dark winter time. Got the wreaths done, and now you have inspired me about a table arrangement-- You have the best ideas...ReplyDelete
Oh - lovely!!! my friend (grace) makes me a christmas arrangement every year. I'll post a photo soon.ReplyDelete


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ever wonderd where all the peugot 205s went? well i can say its north wales seen loads!weird or wot 17 in 1 day n before anyone says owt no it wasnt the same one going round the block.
great people fantastic scenery and once in the country side some amazing biking roads.but beware of sheep strange 30 miles an hour limmits on long straight see for miles roads (enforced even in winter by a very misserable looking plod hiding behind a tree probly so he didnt get run over by the 2 or 3 cars that passed that day).honestly def worth a visit . and mind the giant jelly fish that seem to wash up on the beach 2 foot wide an weigh in at about 4 pounds wont be paddling in the sea ever again!!!!
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There are many voip products available from Telephone Systems Direct. If it's voip systems then read one. If it's individual voip products then it is probably easier for you to browse through our e-commerce section by clicking on the icon above & browsing. voip_products.pdf
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On the other hand our specialisation in voip products centralises on the OfficeServ 7000 series of voip enabled telephony platforms. We consult, quote, install, cable, program, train and maintain on these voip products as well as the DCS and iDCS models from the same Korean electronics giant, Samsung.
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To learn more about voip products and our capabilities please ring 0800 652 8052 where our advisors are waiting to answer during week days from 9 until 5.30.


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September 21, 2011 to December 31, 2012 – Odessa Ballet 2012 Ballet Announced the deadline to participate in art project, Ballet 2012 Ballet. All interested artists may apply for, and scenic art project. Your enrollment, you can send up to 30 Dece… Organized by Alik Vetrof | Type: deadline, art, project
April 13, 2009 to March 30, 2013 – Blurb on line http://www.blurb.com/books/508534 Miniscapes" book launch. Book covers a 15 year period of works portraying over 40 original illustrations approximately 10" x 14". They are essentially mixed media: m… Organized by Susan Shulman | Type: book, launch
April 1, 2012 at 6pm to December 31, 2012 at 7pm – Greenlight Gallery Art and Music Exposition Art and music from the 80's till now. Organized by Raymond Akira Betts cbf & Embc crew | Type: historical, 80's, retrospective
April 21, 2012 at 10am to October 20, 2012 at 6pm – Parkside Plaza The Arts and Culture Fest will take place on Saturdays starting April 21st at occurs at the outdoor plaza of the Parkside Avenue Train Station (B and Q Trains) in Flatbush Brooklyn. Market hours wil… Organized by Atim Oton | Type: artisan, market
June 7, 2012 to September 9, 2012 – Brooklyn, NY In short: ... During GO, Brooklyn-based artists are asked to open their studios to the community on September 8–9, 2012. Community members registered as voters will visit studios and nominate artist… Organized by Brooklyn Museum | Type: open, studion, project
June 18, 2012 at 6pm to April 20, 2013 at 7pm – Postbox START : TODAY Be a part of it ! And feel free tro spread it round the world ! http://artcologne.wordpress.com/about Organized by Mona Schwenker | Type: mail, art
July 3, 2012 to August 31, 2012 – Light Space & Time Online Art Gallery Light Space & Time Online Art Gallery is pleased to announce that its July 2012 art exhibition is now posted on their website and is ready to view online. The theme for this art exhibition is "Ab… Organized by John R. Math | Type: online, art, competition
July 22, 2012 at 3pm to September 2, 2012 at 6pm – Estremoz, Portugal Works influenced by studies of alchemy, mythology and the occult. http://www.artslant.com/ew/venues/show/12331-museu-municipal-dom-dinis Organized by Gregg Simpson | Type: solo, retrospective
August 2, 2012 at 6pm to October 30, 2012 at 11:45pm – SOHO20 Chelsea Gallery SOHO2O Gallery Chelsea is a non-profit artist run gallery that has been promoting the work of women artists since 1973 through gallery exhibitions and public programming. As part of our continued com… Organized by SOHO20 Chelsea Gallery | Type: residency
August 3, 2012 to September 30, 2012 – Light Space & Time Online Art Gallery Light Space & Time Online Art Gallery is pleased to announce that its August 2012 art exhibition is now posted on their website and is ready to view online. The theme for this art exhibition is… Organized by John R. Math | Type: online, art, exhibition
August 22, 2012 at 6pm to September 15, 2012 at 11:45pm – Brooklyn NY UncommonGoods Holds Open Call For Bicycle Lovers Design Challenge UncommonGoods, a Brooklyn-based online retailer, is hosting a Bicycle Lovers Design Challenge from now until September 15 and we woul… Organized by Gaby Dolceamore | Type: call, for, entries
August 24, 2012 at 7pm to October 14, 2012 at 4pm – St. Louis University Museum of Art Contemporary Women Artists XVI: Longevity, an international biennial juried exhibit at St. Louis University Museum of Art 3663 Lindell Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63108 August 24 – October 14, Reception Augu… Organized by Lisa Becker Exhibitions Chair WCA-STL | Type: art, exhibit
August 28, 2012 at 7pm to September 2, 2012 at 6pm – Ouchi Gallery Teruyo's World---Colors and Power--- Bio: Teruyo Fujiyama was born in 1981 in Japan. She was a little girl with lots of curiosity, who drew pictures on the walls in the living room, enjoyed singing… Organized by Ouchi Gallery | Type: art


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- Home
- Collectible Series Minifigs
- LEGO® Mini-Figures The LEGO Movie 2 - Unikitty
Product Description
Name: Unikitty - Includes baseplate, accessories and leaflet
Theme: Minifigures Series
Year Released: 2019
DISCLAIMER - LEGO and the Minifigure® are trademarks of the LEGO Group of Companies.
WARNING – LEGO pieces are intended and rated for children 5 years and up. Be advised that LEGO parts should not be swallowed as it can present a choking hazard. We are not responsible if you injure yourself while opening a package. By purchasing this item you agree to release us from any liability regarding the improper use of this product.
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Multicoloured Age 9 Small Latex Balloons, Pack Of 10
Perfect for decorating a 9th birthday celebration
Despatched within 5 working days when you order before 5pm
Please note: our in store products are delivered with price labels.
Product Description
Brighten up their birthday party with this pack of 10 colourful, latex balloons!
Each balloon has the text 'Happy 9th Birthday' in funky writing with a star and swirl pattern. They're a fabulous decoration for their 9th birthday celebration.
Can You Inflate My Latex Balloons?
Sorry for any inconvenience but we do not offer online or in store helium inflation for packs of 10 latex balloons as these latex balloons are only suitable for air-fill. However, our packs of 6 latex balloons can be helium inflated in store at a cost of 75p per balloon, please remember to take your delivery note as proof of purchase.
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Photo: By Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
CANBERRA (Reuters) – Google Inc won a landmark court case on Wednesday when Australia's High Court ruled that it had not engaged in misleading behaviour with its sponsored links and that it was not responsible for messages conveyed by paid advertisers.The ruling helps Internet providers and search engines argue that they are not publishers, but simply carriers of information provided by third parties.
While the judgment applies only in Australia, the ruling will be closely watched around the world and could be cited as a precedent in the event of similar cases arising in the rapidly evolving area of law.
"Others will definitely be looking at this ruling. Google is a worldwide business. This is something of a first, and it does add some clarity for the industry," the head of Australia's Internet Industry Association, Peter Lee, told Reuters.
The finding ends a six-year legal battle between Google and Australia's consumer watchdog, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), which accused Google of engaging in misleading and deceptive conduct over paid advertisements.
The ACCC based its case on search results in 2006 and 2007, where a search for Honda Australia would show a paid advertisement for a Honda competitor, CarSales. The ACCC said the ads were deceptive, as they suggested CarSales was linked to Honda Motor Co Ltd.
Google argued that it was not responsible for the advertisements, as it was only the conduit for the advertiser.
In a unanimous finding, five judges of Australia's High Court ruled in favour of Google, overturning a ruling from the Federal Court. The lower court had ordered Google to set up a compliance program to make sure paid advertisements on its search engine were not misleading.
The five High Court judges said Google did not create the sponsored links and the company was not responsible for messages in the links.
"Ordinary and reasonable users of the Google search engine would have understood that the representations conveyed by the sponsored links were those of the advertisers, and would not have concluded that Google adopted or endorsed the representations," the court said.
Google issued a brief statement saying it welcomed the decision, while the ACCC said it would review the judgment to see if it had wider ramifications for Australian consumer law.
"The ACCC took these proceedings to clarify the law relating to advertising practices in the internet age," ACCC chairman Rod Sims said in a statement.
The legal victory comes after Google and language software maker Rosetta Stone Inc last year settled a trademark infringement dispute in the United States over Google advertising practices.
Rosetta had argued people searching for its products on Google were being directed to competitors and software counterfeiters.
Google has since changed the way it displays its sponsored links in Australia, now clearly labelling them as advertisements on top of search results.
A Google search for Honda Australia on Wednesday displayed paid ads for Honda Australia's website.
(Editing by Edwina Gibbs)
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Thursday, August 25, 2005
tomorrow is the Sculpture Invitational walk
Style Weekly's Shannon O'Neill has an article out this week with more info and introducing some of the artists. The article makes mention of my previous Sculpture Invitational post and refers to that as a "public-relations setback". Sorry, I thought I was offering some good ideas - and I do think this is great and am excited about it. Why does it so often seem that if you don't cheerlead for something 100% you are perceived as being against it? I would like to see Allison Smith's Muster invade Monument Avenue, it would be perfect.
I'm glad to see that the end of O'Neill's article does address my valid criticism of a fourteen artist invitational that includes only one woman. Actually, in thinking about the history of Richmond public sculpture, I was also wondering how many black sculptors were included. Richmond is a city that is nearly 60 percent black but I am hard-pressed to name a local black artist. Or a single black faculty member or black grad student in any department of VCU's fine arts program.
4 comments:
- Anonymous said...
The most prominent black artist in Richmond (but not for her art) is probably Tosha Grantham. She showed her work in DC and the MidAtlantic region before she became an associate curator at the VMFA in 2001 of so. She would know who the African American artists in the region are since that is her specialty.
There was John Torres, who may have been a member of artspace. He died a few years ago... and claudia...somebody...she is a very talented fiber artist and is associated with Elegba...
and finally there was Ronnie Sampson. Ronnie and his wife Nancy were trying to do what you are doing right after Reagan was president. It was the beginning of BUSH I.
They started an arts zine, the first to be published with a mac here in Richmond. It was called SIGNATURE and was very classy. They probably have all of the editions in the special collections library at Cabell.
Finally, after doing so much for the arts in general and for 1708, which he may have been a member, he and Nancy realized that all of their clients were on the west coast. He was a fantastic printmaker and showed in the region before they sold everything and moved to San Fransisco. He explained to me that it doesn't matter what color you are or who you sleep with out there as long as you can do the job.
Being an artist is hard enough...being black and an artist must be 10 times harder.
- Martin said...
Amieo - thanks for all that info. I will look for SIGNATURE in the library.
- Anonymous said...
Gosh... nice words from AmieO. Very touching. One correction, though, the magazine that Nancy and I published was called "gallery".
Just stunbled across this post and thought I'd chime in.
Ronnie Sampson
- Anonymous said...
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Love and hugs
Friday, 27 March 2009
Be back soon!
Love and hugs
20 comments:
- Jersey Girl Cooks said...
Have agreat weekend and happy anniversary!
- 27 March 2009 at 12:35
- Finla said...
Have fun and thanks for posting olies pictures.
- 27 March 2009 at 12:47
Have a wonderful weekend, Maria!
Happy Anniversary!!
- 27 March 2009 at 13:54
- Katiecakes said...
Have a wonderful time :)
I'm so sorry to read about your cat. I recently lost one to FIV and it hits just as hard as if it were a family member. Enjoy every second you have :)
Katie xox
- 27 March 2009 at 15:47
- Sarah said...
Have only just stumbled across your blog. I'm so sorry to hear about Ollie. He is just adorable.
Hope you have a lovely weekend and Happy Anniversary.
xx :0)
- 27 March 2009 at 17:54
- Maggie said...
Pussy still looks gorgeous Maria.
I love the Cotswolds and it's a great place to stay.
- 27 March 2009 at 18:37
- Reeni said...
Happy Anniversary!! Have a fun and relaxing weekend. Hugs for you and Ollie!
- 27 March 2009 at 19:39
- Mermaid Sews said...
Happy Anniversary - hope you have a great weekend away.
- 27 March 2009 at 20:47
- Rosas Clan in Tulum said...
I just came across your blog. I am so sorry to hear about your baby. I hope that things always turn towards the best.
Have a great anniversary.
- 28 March 2009 at 05:38
- Ruth Strong said...
Hope you both have a great time away, happy anniversary
- 28 March 2009 at 10:00
- The Food Librarian said...
Happy Anniversary!!!
- 28 March 2009 at 19:18
- alisa@foodista said...
Happy Anniversary! I hope you have a great time :)
- 29 March 2009 at 03:19
- Carmela said...
Beautiful pictures.Thanks for sharing.
Buon appetito,
- 29 March 2009 at 14:23
- JillyB said...
Congrats on the wedding anniversary Maria. I hope you had a lovely weekend in a wonderful corner of the world.
- 30 March 2009 at 08:08
- The Girl said...
Hope you've had a lovely weekend away.
Great to see that Ollie is a Delia fan!
- 30 March 2009 at 08:58
- Anne said...
Hope you enjoyed your few days away and congrats on your anniversary
Lovely piccies of Ollie x
- 30 March 2009 at 12:09
He's an absolutely beautiful cat - such gorgeous colouring. Thanks for posting such lovely pictures.
My 18 year old cat died on Sunday - I'm gutted. I think I'll have another, but probably a rescue cat, when the time is right. They're family, not just pets.
Clare xx
- 1 April 2009 at 17:35
- Maria♥ said...
Thanks everyone!!
We had a lovely weekend away and throughly enjoyed the well deserved break. Enjoyed great food and wine and the best part, having someone else do all the work!
- 2 April 2009 at 14:07
- Maria♥ said...
Hi Claire
A warm welcome to my blog! I'm sorry to hear about your cat passing. I totally agree our cats are not just pets, they are family. I have heard a few people say that getting another cat does help and maybe I might feel the same in time but for now I just want to concentrate and enjoy the time I have left with Ollie.
Big hugs going your way
- 2 April 2009 at 14:11
- Heather said...
He is such a little darling. It's heartbreaking that he has that terrible disease. You certainly deserve a break in the country.
- 2 April 2009 at 22:44


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A two year profile of drinking water quality in the US
Just Add Water: Illinois
Weakening the Safe Drinking Water Act
In 1994 and 1995, 1,979,750 people in 759 communities in Illinois drank water that failed to meet federal health standards established under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). In addition, 60 schools, hospitals and daycare centers with privately owned water supplies - responsible for providing water to 18,175 of society's most vulnerable members - also reported violations of basic drinking water safety standards.
Draft legislation circulated April 19, 1996 by Commerce Committee Chairman Thomas Bliley of Virginia would severely weaken scores of provisions in the Act. The legislation, which is the main legislative vehicle for SDWA reform in the House of Representatives, is scheduled for a vote in the House in early May. If enacted, the "Bliley bill" would subvert the basic health standards in current law, curtail the monitoring of drinking water contaminants, limit the public's right to know about drinking water problems, and allow more fecal matter and toxic chemicals in the drinking - also reported water of small and medium sized communities than would be allowed in large cities.
Much of this effort to roll back standards is being driven by the pesticide and chlorine industries - some of the largest polluters of our nation's drinking water. Since January 1993, Political Action Committees representing these industries have contributed over $45,000 to Representative Thomas Bliley (R- VA), the chairman of the House Commerce Committee responsible for rewriting the law.
Bacterial Contamination
Tap water in Illinois continues to be plagued by basic bacterial contamination problems. Data on compliance with federal health standards, which are supplied to EPA by state authorities, indicate that in 1994-1995, 199,196 people in 64 communities drank water from water systems containing disease-causing fecal matter. 656,080 people in Illinois drank water from suppliers with chronic coliform bacteria, and 325,411 in 27 communities drank from water suppliers that failed to meet EPA standards for adequately filtering and disinfecting tap water. Largely on the basis of widespread contamination of tap water by Cryptosporidium, a microbial parasite, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and the U.S. EPA issued an unprecedented warning last year that all Americans with compromised immune systems - including cancer and organ transplant patients, and individuals who are HIV positive - should consider boiling their drinking water or drink bottled water.
Chemical Contaminants
Chemical contamination of drinking water also poses major health threats in Illinois. In 1994-1995, 761,930 people in Illinois drank water from suppliers with excess levels of lead, and 440,035 in 184 communities drank water that contained unsafe levels of toxic chemicals or radioactivity.
Communities Affected By Drinking Water Violations The largest water suppliers in the state with violations of EPA drinking water standards were Decatur, Joliet, and Waukegan. Communities with schools, hospitals, or daycare centers that violated EPA standards included St. Jacob, Tamms, and Sherrard. Legislative provisions that allow weaker standards for smaller communities are particularly troubling for Illinois, where 94 percent of all violations in 1994-1995 occurred in water systems serving less than 10,000 people.
Monitoring Violations and Enforcement Actions
In addition to the thousands of individuals in Illinois affected by unsafe water, many more drank water from suppliers that failed to perform necessary testing to ensure the safety of tap water. In 1994-1995, 5,418,515 people in Illinois drank water served by 1,692 water systems that failed to meet basic sanitary testing requirements for tap water.
Over this same time period, the Illinois drinking water agency and the EPA took 28 enforcement actions against water suppliers that were not meeting basic health requirements or failing to adequately test tap water.
As Just Add Water goes to press, Congress is poised to weaken the basic public health protections provided by the Safe Drinking Water Act. Persistent drinking water safety problems indicate that it's time to strengthen, not weaken the law designed to ensure the safety of Illinois's drinking water.


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Yup that says it all...our prem status is all important not winning things but staying in the money league does....thats modern football for you...6 days rest play wba tonight spuds thursday then 3 days later the cup game which is already being sold as a game to far.....expect a bfs against forest job few years back so those marvelous traveling fans will get shafted again...we are never going to win the league and relegation we have been there before so as rotten as that is we deal with it and carry on so we look to the cups but as usual we will not take this seriously because it could stop our board money gathering from the richest league in the world as for the supporters well lets give them a few headlines about buying this player that player to keep them happy but for some reason just miss out and so the circus goes on.....its not what football is about but hey why let that get in the way of making money.
Dicks is the man
Tue, 02/01/2018 - 09:20
if we dont win the fa cup this year then moyes has gotta go. enough is enough
Tue, 02/01/2018 - 11:53
Apparently our away allocation has been sold out,which is normally the case with our wonderfull support...i was considering going to the game (always a good atmosphere away) but havnt for the reason you state - probably be fielding a reserve side!!A kick in the teeth imo for the fans who remember what it was like to win an F.A cup,but like you say its all about money nowadays & sod the fans....
Wed, 03/01/2018 - 19:32
I'll be there I'll give an extra big cheer for ya!
Wed, 03/01/2018 - 21:14
Have a good one mate!
Red Neck Iron
Tue, 02/01/2018 - 18:26
Anyone unlikely to win the league should be taking it seriously. The board are treating us like we are stupid!
North Bank Hammer
Tue, 02/01/2018 - 22:29
But it gets more competitive every year in the Championship so getting promotion within a season or three isn't the rite of passage it once was. With the mercenary culture in the PL these days too you can bank on losing your starting 11 (that could be a good thing when considering relegation) with many on a free as per their contract agreement. A key factor in the demise of the FA Cup is the TV companies making a mockery of teams having to play two or three days apart over the holiday period and then comes the FA Cup 3rd round. Staying on the gravy train is important to every business and I respect that although I'd love us to have a go at a strong cup run.
Wed, 03/01/2018 - 00:27
The problem with the holiday period fixture list this season is all PL teams were told an additional game would be squeezed in to allow for an earlier finish to the season due to the WC. Of course these dickheads aren't smart enough to consider squeezing that game in earlier in the season when for the first couple of months the games are played once a week. Why squeeze it into the already ridiculously congested xmas period. Morons.
North Bank Hammer
Wed, 03/01/2018 - 05:17
I agree, absolute dickheads. If those that run the game don't value the FA Cup then why would the clubs. The extra fixture early in the season to encourage players to reach 100% match fitness as quickly as possible would benefit clubs and national team with the first international break in September every year.
Dicks is the man
Wed, 03/01/2018 - 07:52
its ridic. all those weeks of no games when we had waste of space england friendlies or just one game a week. cud easily have fit some games in. the fa just do as the name suggests F.A.
moore 6 legend
Wed, 03/01/2018 - 20:53
Spot on dicksy
Wed, 03/01/2018 - 15:16
How many international breaks were there early season?4 or 5 two week breaks & that was just after the mid-season break!!now the games are 3 a week for some teams,ridiculous congestion that could have been avoided if someone at the F.A. had half a brain!!
Wed, 03/01/2018 - 15:56
They should have made better use of the breaks for the National team and not concentrate all these matches during this period, considering also the climatic conditions


text:
These handmade app trays are the perfect little size making these also a great gift for anyone and any occasion. Each tray is hand thrown in our Boston studio, they're then drawn and painted by our professional potteristas! Like all of Jill's pieces, this one is then finished with a fabulous gold rim. If you're not all about gold and silver's more your thing, be sure to ask us about customizing!
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Your box will arrive at your doorstep with love and care from UPS. Tracking information will be emailed to you at time of shipment. Please contact us for international shipping options.


text:
Read the full story here Web Link posted Thursday, July 30, 2009, 8:01 AM
Town Square
Outdoor movie tonight is 'School of Rock'
Original post made on Jul 30, 2009
Read the full story here Web Link posted Thursday, July 30, 2009, 8:01 AM
Comments (6)
a resident of Walnut Hills
on Jul 30, 2009 at 10:32 am
Jeb, the movie School of Rock will be shown on August 6th not tonight. That is what was written in the first article written about movies in the park.
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Jul 30, 2009 at 10:51 am
.. before too many people show up and are disappointed. Sounds as if the movies were scheduled for *every other* Thursday, not every Thursday, per Jeb's original article in early July:
Web Link
a resident of Apperson Ridge
on Jul 30, 2009 at 10:55 am
The original article was incorrect in that next Thursday's show is not Aug. 4th, but Aug. 6th.
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Jul 30, 2009 at 11:14 am
Yes, School of Rock will be shown Aug. 6, not tonight. Sorry for the confusion. We've taken down the story.
a resident of Walnut Hills
on Jul 30, 2009 at 11:15 am
They got the August 6th right in this article but not for the August 20th movie.
Web Link
a resident of Del Prado
on Jul 30, 2009 at 4:05 pm
This is socialism! Showing a "free" movie in a "community" park where hard working American's tax dollars are being spent. This can only lead to further Socialistic programs like "free" schools, "free" police and fire services, and "free" parks. Where will the insanity stop? We must act now and rise up against Obama's Socialist agenda and put a stop to all these Socialist programs. My tax dollars should only be spent on programs and services that benefit "me" directly. I cannot bear paying for all those hippy, granola eating layabouts to watch movies in some park. Just say no to Socialism!!!
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text:
Apple losing sales to netbooks?
The Macalope has seen this Retrevo survey linked to a number of places and has some real questions about it.
First of all, Retrevo is not a research firm like Gartner. They're a conduit to online sales. Do they get a cut of the sales from affiliate fees? The Macalope can't tell from their web site.
Second, it's interesting to note that one of their partners is HP, maker of netbooks. Maybe Apple is a partner too and they're just not listed. Doubtful, but possible. HP is also specifically mentioned in the press release as one of the low-cost netbook alternatives to a MacBook. As a matter of fact, they're the only other laptop vender mentioned. Hmm.
Third, what "trend" does their latest press release show? The title of their press release is:
Retrevo Survey Says Apple Loses Back-to-School Laptop Shoppers to Netbook & PC
Yet the press release says nothing of the kind. As a matter of fact, it says very little.
Retrevo, the consumer electronics marketplace, released today a new Gadgetology study indicating 34% of students buying laptops are planning on purchasing small, lightweight netbooks. Another 49% are buying full-sized PC laptops. The majority of student laptop shoppers will not consider buying a Mac.
Assuming the second number excludes Macs, 34 + 49 = 83. Does that mean 17% of those surveyed are buying Mac laptops? What was Apple's market share last year? How many sales or how much market share has Apple supposedly "lost" compared to last year?
They don't provide that data. They just go on to castigate Apple for not having a low-cost laptop. It's certainly possibly that netbooks are stealing the low end of the market where Apple doesn't compete and it's possible they're growing that end of the market, but there's absolutely nothing in their press release that show that Apple is losing sales to netbooks.
The majority of student laptop shoppers will not consider buying a Mac.
Uh, yeah. Apple has a market share below 10 percent. Of course the majority of even student laptop shoppers aren't considering them.
Fourth, is an online sample size of 300 really statistically valid? That seems awfully low to the pointy one, but he's no statistician.
This just seems very dubious.
ADDED: As TC points out in comments, this is only going to tell you something about what visitors to their site think (the survey was only of site visitors). And isn't that an important bit of selection bias right there? What Retrevo does is pull together the prices from various online outlets. Their visitors are already self-defined as low-cost shoppers. They're trying to find the lowest price. Don't most Macs get sold through Apple's online store and retail outlets anyway? How many people are ever going to visit Retrevo with the thought of buying a Mac?
MORE: Look at their "value map" for Apple laptops. Only three – the three cheapest – rate a "fair value". All the others are rated "low value". Ask yourself if that's a fair assessment of Apple laptops. Again, it certainly appears that people who visit Retrevo's site have some pre-conceived ideas about Apple's laptop offerings. To these people low price = good value. To the Macalope, that describes a group that would rarely buy an Apple laptop in the first place.
[…] rhetorical question generator, there was! It was back in August when multiple Mac web sites went nuts and took the word of that firm that […]
[…] Again, this survey was of "more than 1000 randomly selected Retrevo users" who we've already determined are not in Apple's core customer group. […]
I *am* a statistician. Well, a social scientist. Still, I do statistics. Gobs of them. Daily. Like, for a living. More importantly, I know survey methodology. Surveys are our bread and butter.
300 visitors to one website isn't a great sample – it can only tell you about what visitors to that website think, not what "students" in general think.
Surveys and statistics are not nearly as important as common knowledge. Everybody knows that.
Reality: Microsoft getting GORED by cheapskate netbook buyers (since many netbooks run LINUX and the rest use a deeply discounted version of XP). Apple maybe losing a FEW sales. Apple selling tons of iPhones and iTouches, which perform many netbook functions (Surfing) and fit in your shirt pocket.
The Headline: OMG! Beleagured Apple getting TROUNCED as whole universities switch over to netbooks! Steve Ballmer laughing maniacally and rubbing his fleshy palms together.
Major U.S. Windows PC companies, Windows PC retailers and Microsoft are losing revenue to netbooks. Apple, meanwhile, is raking in profits without the need for netbooks. How's that for some hot info.
It doesn't matter how many netbooks companies are selling to students, the profit margins are so low that it's crippling the Windows PC industry as a whole. All their high-end computers are collecting dust, helped along by Microsoft's buy cheaply as possible as long as it's powered by Windows campaign.
What's crazy about this is we've been seeing steady gains—sometimes surprisingly LARGE ones—in Apple's marketshare in higher education over the past few years. So their "results" don't even jibe with the information we've been getting from larger, more established research firms.
Isn't this the kind of thing they all proclaimed around about the time of the iPod introduction… then all were stunned how those with Windows machines – hence now owning iPods actually took a serious look at Apple Macs… and Mac sales increased, gaining market share?
Me wonders how the iPhone will help cascade sales into increased market share over the next few years as those whom have never taken a real close look at a Mac, now have iPhones and the epiphany of Apple Quality and Experience sinks-in.
Attention Wal-Mart shoppers!
"The majority of student laptop shoppers will not consider buying a Mac."
That should more properly read: "The majority of student laptop shoppers who come to our website seeking cheap PCs and decide to take our lame survey will not consider buying a Mac."
"Fourth, is an online sample size of 300 really statistically valid? That seems awfully low to the pointy one, but he's no statistician."
Actually 300 beats 10,000. I saw it in a movie!


text:
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text:
A lot of the greatest science fiction movies and TV shows have concepts you can sum up in a sentence, and it will make total sense. But books? Many of the greatest novels just sound ridiculous if you try to explain them in a single breath. What's your favorite science fiction or fantasy novel that can't be summed up without losing the magic?
Please include a book cover or other image for your chosen book. And mention the title, and why it's too complicated or clever or awesome to be explained in a single sentence. Thanks!
Top image: Starship Troopers by Robert A. Heinlein, chosen partly just because it's an amazing image.


text:
WRP's MP-5 Photopack
There is no photopack in the world like the MP-5! It's a photopack, it's a shoulder pack and it's a fanny pack all in one unit. It can carry all the gear you see pictured here and keep on going. Since it's introduction in 2005, 2000plus have traveled the planet exploring the remotest of locations.
Note: The MP-5 is a specialized bag for the experienced photographer. If you're looking for an over padded camera pack, the MP-5 is not for you. In fact, the compartment flaps have no padding at all!
The MP-5 PhotoPack is completely convertible so it can change in a heartbeat to your needs. It comes from us in its photopack mode. Two, 2" wide removable straps clip onto the MP-5 so it can be used as a photopack (our shoulder pads work on the MP-5, not included). Clip on just one of the shoulder straps and you have a traditional photobag (with padded top handle as well, that is removable). Unzip the two compartments and you have a fanny pack. You won't find a more versatile photopack in the world.
The MP-5 overall dimensions are 12.5"x14"x 8". Fanny pack (long lens side) dimensions are 12.5"x7"x8". The auxiliary side (short lens side) is 12.5"x7"x8" with two pocket 5.5"x6.5"x8". The MP-5 comes with 3 dividers and one zippered Velcro pocket. Both sides have a top passport pocket that is 5"x7"x1/2", dual zipper. The MP-5 is constructed out of 1000 Cordura and comes in three colors: Blue, Green & Black.
Because of its unique design, the zipper is tight going around all corners. This is also due to the "water repellent" design of the zipper and the tight curve of the corners.
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Lots of TLC went into the design and construction of the MP-5 photopack. It's now available to you for only $274 which includes shipping (FedEx ground) in the United States. Accessories such as extra padding for the shoulders, pockets and extra dividers are available. It's your bag for life!
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MP-5 Back View
MP-5 Front View
|MP-5 Left Side
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|MP-5 as Traditional Camera Bag
Note: The MP series of photopacks has one main common trait, fitting in the overheads of the smallest planes while safely carrying massive amounts of camera gear. Some folks have wondered why we don't have wheels on our packs. Wheels on packs make them impossible to fit in many overheads, defeating the whole design principle of the MP series. If you require wheels, you can do what many MP owners have done. They simply buy a wheelie cart and attach the MP to the cart. But we won't be coming out with any packs with wheels, sorry!
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The MP-5 can be returned if it is done within 30 days of receipt and is returned in new condition with all accessories included. Return Authorization must be obtained prior to returning in order to receive a refund.
The MP-5 is guaranteed against any material or workmanship defects for as long as you own the bag. Problems from abnormal wear or abuse, determined by the manufacturer and/or distributor is not guaranteed and all repairs are the responsibility of the bag owner. Any damage caused to gear being transported in the MP-1 caused by any reason is not covered and is not the responsibility of the manufacturer or distributor.


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PR NEWSWIRE- [Dept. Of Homeland Propaganda]
The Department of Homeland Security and the Seneca Nation of Indians today formalized an agreement to develop a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)-compliant Enhanced Tribal Card (ETC) — signed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Assistant Commissioner Thomas S. Winkowski and Seneca Nation President Barry E. Snyder, Sr., at a ceremony at Liberty Park in Niagara Falls, N.Y.
The ETC establishes identity, tribal membership and citizenship for the purpose of entering the United States by land or sea — enhancing safety and security of U.S. borders while facilitating legitimate travel and trade. The agreement represents Secretary Napolitano's ongoing commitment to close coordination with tribal partners across the nation on security initiatives — and underscores the mutual commitment of DHS and the Seneca Nation to enhance border security and combat threats of terrorism and transnational crime through secure identification.
Since the beginning of the year, CBP has also signed agreements with the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho and the Pascua Yaqui of Arizona. CBP is currently working with approximately 25 additional tribes across the country on the ETC initiative.


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Editor's Note: The Times Record continues its series of reports on prescription drug abuse.
FORT SMITH — The Drug Enforcement Administration will sponsor its next National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, but in Arkansas' second-largest city, every day is a take-back day.
That's because the Fort Smith Police Department is one of many agencies across the state that offer a permanent drop box for expired or unwanted medications. Residents can use the drop box anonymously and free of red tape, 24 hours a day, and the police department will make sure the drugs are safely destroyed.
Fort Smith police Cpl. Paul Smith, local coordinator for the national event, said the police station will likely receive 10 to 40 pounds of medications Saturday. The twice-yearly take-back day is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
"We've had a pretty good response over the past couple of years," Smith said. Discarded medications are stored in the evidence vault until the state police pick them up and transport them to Pine Bluff for incineration.
On all other days, according to Narcotics Division Capt. Jamie Hammond, evidence technician Ricky Brooks sees to the disposal of the drugs locally.
"There are no forms to fill; you don't have to call ahead or come talk to anybody. We don't care who you are; just come in anytime, and drop off your medications right here in the lobby," Hammond said.
"We do prefer they bring in prescription drugs. Sometimes people bring in expired cough medications and eye drops, which is all right too, but what this is targeting is the oxys and other controlled substances," he added, referring to commonly abused painkillers such as oxycodone.
In one recent case, a resident called ahead because he needed to drop off several garbage bags full of expired medications dating to the 1980s after a family member died of a long-term illness. Hammond said the drop box would not have accommodated such a large quantity, and calling ahead was the safe thing to do.
Brooks, who unlocks the drop box daily, said the box usually contains a little something every day, and a lot on other days.
"Sometimes, it's so full it's hard to get open. It practically explodes when you unlock it," he said.
Brooks said he coordinates disposal of the drugs with a local hospital and attends every incineration, which involves heating the drugs to 300 degrees, removing biohazards and grinding the remains.
According to state Drug Director Fran Flener, Arkansas has collected 23½ tons of unwanted drugs, or about 66 million pills, over the five previous DEA take-back days since September 2010.
Pointing to statistics from the annual Arkansas Prevention Needs Assessment, she believes the take-backs have brought on a significant drop in prescription drug abuse by young people.
"Twenty-three tons has got to make a difference," she said.
Steve Varady, policy coordinator for Flener's office at the Department of Human Services, said incineration protects the environment while eliminating access to the most-abused drugs.
The Crawford County Sheriff's Office and Van Buren Police Department also have permanent drop boxes. Other permanent and special drop-off sites can be found on the Arkansas Takeback website.


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Serendipity and science. They're the two basic means by which a new apple variety
can be developed.
Most varieties simply happen - a magical meeting of flower and pollen. Scientists
call this a "chance seedling," meaning a tree grows by chance from an apple seed.
Scientific breeding, on the other hand, offers a much more controlled way of creating
new apple varieties.
In both cases, the seed is a cross between the female parent (the flower/fruit from
the tree that the apple came from) and the male parent (the variety that produced
the pollen).
How does it play out in real life? Consider the following chance seedling: A Red
Delicious tree is pollinated by pollen from a nearby Jonathan tree. Although it
yields a Red Delicious apple, the seeds in the fruit are a cross of the two parent
varieties (Red Delicious and Jonathan). If you planted one of the seeds from that
apple, it would grow into a tree that would yield a new, unique variety, one that
contains some characteristics of both parent varieties. Like children, each new
tree would have a completely unique, individual mix of characteristics from the
parent seeds.
Chance seedlings are usually found growing in unusual places, such as fence rows
or barnyards. Since the origin of the parent blossoms are unknown - someone could
have thrown an apple core anywhere - we can only guess what the parentage of a new
chance variety may be.
When scientists get involved, the same principles apply. Only they make sure an
apple's ancestry can be traced.
With scientific breeding, pollen from one variety pollinates another variety: only
here, a scientist controls the activity. Whether in a field or a greenhouse, the
scientist covers the apple blossoms with a fabric or netting to prevent random pollination.
When the blossoms open and are ready to be pollinated, the scientist manually applies
pollen from the blossom of a known variety. The blossom is covered again.
After the fruit is harvested from the hand-pollinated fruits, the seeds are collected,
then planted.
Here is where apple breeding is a long-term, large-scale project. Blossoms are pollinated
in the spring and the fruit harvested in the fall. The next year, the seeds are
then planted and it takes four to eight years before the trees, started from seed,
yield fruit to be evaluated. Hundreds or thousands of seeds can be planted in hopes
of yielding one desirable variety.
Once the trees begin to bear fruit, someone walks the rows of trees and looks for
apples that are appealing in appearance as well as taste. And this is only the beginning.
Following are many more years of trials to test the variety for weaknesses, such
as susceptibility to diseases, insect damage and frost hardiness, as well as desirable
tree form and climate adaptability.
Needless to say, fruit breeding is a rare science. A plant breeder is unlikely to
become famous during his lifetime, since years must pass before a successful variety
becomes popular and adopted for wide-scale planting.
Which brings us to an interesting question: If every apple seed in every apple is
a new, unique variety, how do we get orchards full of trees bearing the same variety?
It isn't easy. Once a desirable variety is bred or discovered, branches from the
tree are "budded" to a size-controlling rootstock. (An apple tree growing on its
own roots will stand 30-40 feet high, so growers and their workers prefer the dwarf
trees, which are more productive per acre.) "Bud-wood," or branches with several
"buds," are collected from the desirable tree. Buds are areas that sprout in the
spring to form new branches and blossoms. The buds are carefully cut from the branches
and inserted into a rootstock, which has already been planted in a nursery field.
The bud heals into the rootstock and eventually sprouts a branch, which will become
the young tree.
The budding of fruit trees requires very precise and technical skills. Nurseries
must grow the rootstocks and also maintain blocks of trees to be used for bud-wood.
Obviously, chance seedling is the easier path to a new variety. But scientific breeding
allows us to reproduce our favorite varieties. And for everyone who loves the anticipation
of biting into a delicious apple, we tip our hats to plant breeders everywhere.
The West Virginia Apple Task Force provides the following account of the roots of
the Golden Delicious Apple. It seems to have been culled from an article by Tara
Auxt Baugher and Steve Blizzard published in A History of Fruit Varieties.
West Virginia's most famous contribution to horticulture, the Golden Delicious apple,
had its humble beginnings in the autumn of 1905 on a small farm in Clay County.
It was there that Anderson Mullins noticed a precocious seedling with large yellow
apples, unlike any variety he had seen. Little did this hillside farmer realize
that his discovery would, one day, change the course of apple production around
the world.
The Golden Delicious apple tree, located on a hill near Porter's Creek, has since
become the ancestor of millions of such trees. For nine years after he first observed
the tree, Mullins harvested an abundant crop annually, even when other trees in
the family orchard were barren. The apples kept in good condition in his cellar
until April. He called the discovery "Mullins Yellow Seedling."
In the spring of 1914, Mullins sent three apples by parcel-post to Stark Brothers
Nursery, Louisiana, MO, modestly describing the observations he had made of the
bearing habit of the tree and quality of the fruit. When Mr. Lloyd Stark opened
the small package of fruit, he was not very excited because yellow apples had never
been big sellers. Nevertheless, Lloyd and his brother Paul decided to sample a slice
of one of the apples. The apple, which had been stored in Mullins' cellar all winter,
was still firm, but what was even more impressive was its spicy flavor.
Paul Stark, an aggressive pomologist, set out on a journey that would later be called
the "trail of the Golden Delicious apple." Stark found what he was looking for:
an exciting new apple that would become a standard in the fruit industry. "It just
growed here, " Mullins told him. The naturally occurring chance seedling was later
identified to have sprung from the Golden Reinette pollinated by the Grimes Golden.
The Grimes is another West Virginia discover, probably planted by Johnny Appleseed.
Stark Brothers paid $5,000 for the tree and 900 square feet of hillside.
For 30 years, the Starks employed Bewel Mullins, Anderson's nephew, to maintain the
tree. For $100 a year, he made sure it was properly fertilized and sprayed, and
kept written and photographic records of its growth, paying close attention to any
signs of weakness. The new yellow cultivar had all the characteristics of a winner.
The Americal Pomological Society awarded the Wilder Medal to the Golden Delicious
in 1921. The Golden Delicious was immediately acclaimed and soon became a leading
cultivar in the United States and abroad.
Over 150 billion pounds of Golden Delicious apples are grown annually in the United
States and at least as many in the rest of the world. The apple is popular both
for fresh and processing uses. Many of the progeny of this original West Virginia
tree have been planted on every continent which ensures that wherever apples are
grown, a little bit of West Virginia horticultural heritage survives.
According to local legend, it was springtime in the early 1800s, when eastern York
County, PA, school children kicking through leaves unearthed apples that had apparently
fallen from the tree the year before.
Finding them to be firm, they ate them, and liked the flavor. A local farmer tried
one for himself and was equally impressed by the apple's long-keeping quality.
Following the next season's crop, that farmer took some samples to a nearby nursery
operator named Jonathan Jessup, who grafted a stem from the tree onto another on
his farm. The result is a strain that was originally known as the "Imperial of Keepers,"
or the York Imperial.
From the early 1900s through 1930, that long-keeping quality made the York Imperial
a popular choice for export to European markets. As a result the York Imperial came
to dominate the apple industry that stretches from northern Virginia to southern
Pennsylvania. European import restrictions put an end to the York Imperial's golden
However, as demand for sauce and slices improved, processors began to prefer the
York Imperial because it created an attractively colored sauce, while also providing
slices that held their shape, impressing pie-bakers. And because of that firm texture,
as well as its resistance to bruising, the York Imperial remains a popular choice
for processing.


text:
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Indoor playground trampoline TQ-BC008
Capacity: 200-250
OnLine Service
Product details:
Jumping mats: PP, imported from USA
Frame: galvanized steel, thickness: 4MM
Springs: galvanized material with 21.5cm long
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Safety net: polyethylene or polyester
Bubble Bag with PP Film: Safety Pad;
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How is the warranty?
Jumping mats imported from the USA, there will be two years warranty, and if there is any damage, we will make free for you, and for other parts, we will send some more spare parts with free to you. Eeven if you have any problem during future use, pls just contact us for free, we will try our best to help you solve it.
Welcome to our website!Please feel free to send you asked us through the following form, we will contact with you, and to provide corresponding service for you as soon as possible, please write in English.


text:
Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin said he had "no hard feelings" about Mark Zuckerberg or Facebook, a Brazilian news magazine reported.
The magazine, Veja, had an exclusive interview with the reclusive Saverin, who now spends his time in Singapore, according to Forbes which provided an English translation:
"I have only good things to say about Mark, there are no hard feelings between us. His focus on the company since its very first day is anything short of admirable. He was a visionary, he always knew that the only way for Facebook to grow was to maintain its central idea, that of people truly presenting themselves as they are, without nicknames or pseudonyms. That's Facebook's biggest strength, what allowed us to transform it into an instrument of protest, like what happened in Egypt, but also in an instrument of business, not to mention a way of naturally connecting with friends."
Local news from across Southern California
Saverin also said that he gave up his U.S. citizenship because of his working relationships in Singapore. His father, Roberto, who still lives in Miami, confirmed this, "He had no other choice as a foreigner living in Singapore, where financial transactions are more restricted and bureaucratic for those who hold a U.S. passport. There was no other way."
As for the film, "The Social Network" and his portrayal, he had nothing but disdain. "That's Hollywood fantasy," he said. "Facebook wasn't built out of a Harvard dorm window. And I would never throw a laptop at someone, like it appears in the movie. Not even at Mark."
It's not surprising that Saverin took the high road when talking about Zuckerberg. Yes, he sued Zuckerberg and the company when his share of the business was reduced without his knowledge, but we don't know what kind of confidentiality agreement was made when Saverin took his settlement. He may not be able to speak in less than generalities. Either way, Saverin now spends most of his time investing in Internet startups trying to find the next Facebook.


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I love this dress, I wore it at fashion week but dont think I've actually worn it on here. I love how structured it is, and before being body con its really flaterring as I do not have the flattest of tums! Nail faux pas as well choosing a glittery blue even though I'm wearing a all black outfit! Although I tend to ignore the blue/black fashion rule anyway! Sorry for the short post as I'm off to Cardiff for the weekend for fun times with my friend Hannah! Have a good weekend and stay safe, See you on Saturday!
Also my blog now has a official~ Facebook page! "Like" it for updates! After someone VERY creepily making a fake profile of me I finally decided to bite the bullet and get one. I think Facebook pages blur the line between real life and blog life a little too much for my liking, but oh well! We shall see how it goes!


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Toys and Games (Prompt 17)
Yours truly is so old-fashioned I still think chess is the coolest game. But the first game I remember playing is checkers; my Dad was the instructor/opponent for both. The games arrived as gifts from Santa.
In elementary school we were obsessed with playing marbles, but we called them "allies." It was a matter of taking turns to shoot your allie along the ground toward a "pot," that is, a hole you scooped out of the dirt. Any number of kids could play. The eventual winner ― and it quite escapes me now how the system worked ― got to keep all the allies in the pot. Everyone vied to collect the prettiest coloured marbles that we lugged back and forth to school in a cloth whisky-bottle bag with a drawstring.
The unique dolls my Grandma Freibergs made ... how I wish I still had them! Or even a photograph! She made them all of one piece in sturdy cotton, stuffed them, and embroidered the faces. Then, and that's where her seamstress training shone, she crafted a gorgeous dress with a long skirt. The brilliant part was when you turned the doll upside down, a completely new doll appeared in a different full length gown, different hair, different face. I, of course, thought Grandma invented them.
A little research educates me otherwise (another win-win for The Book of Me). They are called "topsy-turvy dolls" and their history goes back to plantation days in America ― not to Grandma's Latvian roots. The original doll babies had a white face and a black face. There's an interesting discussion on Historical Folk Toys http://www.historicalfolktoys.com/catcont/4716.html. In the early twentieth century, commercial companies began selling popular patterns so handy homemakers could make their own.
First Present or Gift (Prompt 18)
Can you remember it? Who bought it for you? Do you still have it?
FAIL here in the memory department. Maybe the first gift was the silver christening mug? ... now gathering dust in one of my descendants' cupboards (instead of in mine). Or the quilt Grandma made for my crib. The patches alternated in pink and blue, a clear sign no-one knew in advance which one I'd be. I think I still have it, if only I knew where to look.
The same Grandma created tiny baby dresses with incredibly detailed stitching. They became very fragile over the ensuing years; lack of proper care was a factor.
Then there was the handsome red sleigh my Grandpa Dougall made. Was it for me or for my father and his sisters before me? Lovingly crafted and ideal for all that previously-tolerated northern SNOW. It now resides with my niece in Quebec where they also have a winter abundance of SNOW and a few babies to enjoy it.
Who Do You Miss? (Prompt 19)
People who live elsewhere that we will not see over the festive season, people that have passed away; who do you miss? Why?
"Elsewhere" ... nearly all the important people in my life live elsewhere. Foremost I miss my children at odd times ― meaning actually any old time ― because they are all so far away. That means I am ever grateful for the likes of Email, Skype, and Facebook. And the technology helps me understand they are no longer the helpless toddlers I cherished or the fractious teenagers I despaired over.
I miss my long distance friends scattered on diverse pathways to global corners, some from way-back-when. Some intersect electronically on a fairly regular basis; others, regrettably, have gone by the wayside.
If I were to list them all and why I miss each not being 'round the corner to visit, I would still be writing this two years from now. Maybe sometimes they miss me too.
Much sadder is the fact that friends of childhood and later have died. Did they fulfill some of their dreams? Memories of times we shared always warm me. A special loss are those who went far too young ― my "twin" cousin H; my young cousin I; my beautiful cousin C. Family historians have deep roots and wide branches.
When I look back in review, as happens with this prompt, I didn't know I had so many friends ~ Happy Dance ~ Now I'm less and less of a social extrovert, relishing solitude, so it takes determined effort and time to develop new friendships. There are friends who connect through mutual interests. There are those who bond on different creative, emotional, intellectual, or spiritual levels. We are all complex human beings and it's a rare friend who sustains and nourishes you on all levels of your being with reciprocal sharing and trust ― the special few on whom you can count at all times are extra precious.
It may sound trite, but I can only say I am fortunate and blessed. Wherever my family and friends are, their regular presence is missed.


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Dream Stream
November 16, 2019 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Cost: $40
Wine, beer, and other beverages (with and without alcohol) will be available for purchase as well as some light snacks.
Please try to arrive by 6:20 at the latest. Class will start at 6:30.
Evening classes are recommended for painters 16 years and older; however, we ultimately leave it to the parent's discretion. In order to aid in the enjoyment of all painters, we ask that children present be painters and under the supervision of an adult.
Classes are non-refundable; however, if you realize you can't make it to a class, please call or stop in at least 48 hours in advance to be moved to another class. Classes can only be transferred once.
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to email us at email@example.com or give us a call at 605-716-3325.
Thanks tons and see you soon! Peace, Love & Painting!
Sold Out!


text:
Fuji has announced the world's first weather-resistant bridge camera in the shape of the Finepix S1.
The camera features a 50x optical zoom lens, built-in Wi-Fi and full HD movie recording, all in a dust- and water-resistant body.
Approximately 70 areas are weather sealed, while the 50x optical zoom lens offers an equivalent of 24-1200mm, in 35mm terms, with a bright f/2.8-5.6 aperture range.
The lens of the camera features two aspherical and four ED lenses in a structure of 13 elements in 11 groups, designed for reduced aberration and increased sharpness. Super EBC coating is included to reduce ghosting and flare.
More models
Three further bridge cameras have been announced by Fujifilm. The S9400W and the S9200 both feature 50x optical zooms, along with a new image stabilization system specifically designed for video recording. The S9400W features built-in Wi-Fi.
Meanwhile, the Finepix S8600 features a 36x Fujinon zoom lens and a 16 million pixel CCD sensor.
Finally, the XP70 is a tough camera that features a 16.4 million pixel sensor and is waterproof, shockproof, freeze proof and rustproof, while featuring built-in wireless connectivity.
Prices and release dates vary, but all will be available by February 2014.


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Singer Kellie Pickler can now plan for the best day of her life, after getting an engagement ring from songwriter Kyle Jacobs.
Jacobs' carefully planned proposal to the "American Idol" season 5 alum on June 15, included a blanket, champagne and candles on a Florida beach at sunset.
"It turned out to be the most amazing day of my life," Pickler, 23, told People magazine.
U.S. & World
The pair, which met two and a half years ago through friends, "just held each other and had the most beautiful prayer," according to Jacobs.
Added Pickler, "Kyle took away all my fear of marriage and has shown me the way love is supposed to be."
The engagement date has long carried significance for Pickler, marking the birthday of her late grandmother, Faye, who raised her from the age of two, when her mother left and her father was jailed.
"My whole world changed," Pickler said. "We both feel like we got my grandmother's blessing."
"I'm in the happiest place I've ever been," said Pickler, who has reconciled with her father, Clyde. After stints in and out of jail, the elder Pickler has been sober for over a year. The singer's wedding plans call for him to give her away.
Noting fellow country songbirds Carrie Underwood and Miranda Lambert have also recently gottten engaged, Pickler joked, "There must be something in the water."


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Wow. It's been quite a while since I've blogged. I decided to put myself through blogger-detox which led to blogger-withdrawal. Strangely though, I haven't had any blogger-cravings in a few days.
Don't think I've forgotten everyone though! I haven't. I still read everyone's blog...I guess just lurking around, but for a while I just didn't have anything to say.
Strange, I know. No need to check my forehead for fever. No need to make me stick out my tongue and say "Ahhh." I'm not sick! lol
It's been a crazy-busy place around here for a while. Between work and physical therapy, I usually don't even get home until after 7:00pm. Sometimes later. I'm soooooooooooo tired! lol
Speaking of which, I have noticed that the standard physical therapists office is starting to look a lot more like a medieval torture chamber these days than what it looked like just a few years ago.
It starts out innocently enough...nice, clean waiting room. No interesting magazines...just yawn-inducing medical booklets on various health topics. Standard issue half -wall with the cutout window separating the patients from the receptionist, or whomever happens to be sitting at the window.
Then you're called back onto the "floor." I really don't think the term "floor" can accurately describe a space that is packed with padded tables, machines, exercise equipment, etc. Hell, you can barely SEE the floor! lol
In the middle of this floor is a GIGANTIC bed. A padded rubber bed....that is probably 2 times bigger than a king size bed. It even has pillows. Sounds nice and comfy, huh?
Then they whip out this hard foam roller. It's about 7-8 inches thick and about 3-4 feet tall. They lay it on the bed....and tell you to climb on. Oookkkkaaaaaaayyyyy. So, you sit on the end of this foam roller. Just so you know, I may not have the..ahem...sensitive equipment down below that a man does, but sitting on this thing feels like you're sitting on a tree trunk. It's HARD. I have no clue how they can get away with calling it "foam."
Then, they have you LAY on the foam roller, with your butt at one end and your head at the other. Remember, I said it's only about 7-8 inches thick. Yeah...figure out the mechanics of that. It hurts like a BITCH. The roller directly comes into contact with your spine.
So, now you're balanced on this stupid roller, trying to keep it from rolling out from under you or from falling off. Then they tell you to reach both arms up and then back down at the same time, like you're punching the sky. Torture, I tell ya.
After more various
tortures exercises involving the foam roller, you move on to a regular padded table, like they have at most doctor's offices. Except they're longer, and..surprisingly, pretty damn comfortable.
Until they tell you to lay on your stomach scooted all the way to one side of the table. Now your left (or right, depending on what arm you're using) arm and part of your side is hanging into space. And you find yourself desperately holding on with dear life with your other arm. If that's not enough, you have to do various exercises with that arm that's hanging off...with weights. Like you're not already having balance issues.
After a few repetitions of that, now you're onto cervical traction. WHOA HOLD UP! What the hell did you just say??? Cervical what?? Who?? WTF!
Exactly. WTF is right. If you have claustrophobia, it's not for you. If you have issues with being tied down, it's not for you. However, if you're game, they strap your neck into this machine with a strap across your forehead holding you in. Then they slowly increase the pounds of pressure, and your neck is pulled. Yeeeaaaaahhhhhhh. As in feels like it's getting pulled off.
So, at this point, you're gauging the distance between you and the exit, trying to figure if you can run fast enough with this thing attached to your neck and head.
When that's over, you move to yet ANOTHER padded table. And they bring you electrodes. Yep. Electrodes. "What are those?", you may ask. Electrodes...as in electricity. As in things they stick on your back to conduct electricity into your body. Yeeeeaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhh.
Now, I may surprise you here. Even though it resembles a torture chamber, and for the most part, the exercises are painful and difficult, I enjoy the HELL out of the TENS Unit. I actually do have a miniature one at home that I use from time to time. And I can stand the cervical traction, if I HAVE to. Barely. Sort of.
Even though physical therapy in general is uncomfortable, it does seem to be helping. I have another round of it tonight, so I'm definitely going to cut this short. Otherwise, I'll ramble all night!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Wow. It's been quite a while since I've blogged. I decided to put myself through blogger-detox which led to blogger-withdrawal. Strangely though, I haven't had any blogger-cravings in a few days.
Posted by Shauna at 3:08 PM 0 comments
Thursday, February 5, 2009
No Rules!
So, a few days ago Ashley tagged me for a "No Rules Meme."
And, I kind of ignored it since I was really, REALLY, really tired at the time. And then I just forgot about it...
And then she reminded me that she tagged me....lol
So, here we go!
1. For some reason, I almost always repost stuff like this on MySpace, but rarely on Blogger. I'm not sure why...kind of weird, I guess. I'm not even sure WHY I do all of those on MySpace anyways. It's not like everyone on there needs to know all the random "get to know me" crap. They're already my friends (or they SHOULD be! lol), and for the most part I know the majority of them in person, so they already know the stuff that I share! lol
2. I HATE not being busy. At work, I can't JUST do one thing at a time. I HAVE to multi-task or I go insane. For example, if I'm making calls, I HAVE to finish or start working on a spreadsheet of some sort. If I'm making bundles, I HAVE to sing along to the radio. If I'm on a conference call, I HAVE to write a blog...like I'm doing now...or check e-mail.
3. I have lived in 7 different states: Arkansas, South Carolina, Texas, Kansas, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and for 5 weeks in Virginia. Even though I was born in Little Rock and live in Houston now, Amarillo will always be HOME to me. Even though it's home, I barely know anyone there anymore! lol My family is either in Arkansas or here in Houston with me. All my high school and college friends grew up and moved away...just like I did.
4. My house is a disaster area. I can barely keep up with the mess sometimes. It would be easier, I suppose, if I didn't work full time, didn't have horrible back problems, and oh yeah..if I didn't have kids! lmao. I'm just going to blame it on them. Because, it's THEIR fault the kitchen floor isn't mopped and the dishes are in the sink instead of the dishwasher. It's THEIR fault that my clothes aren't all hung on hangers in the closet. Yep. That's my excuse and I'm sticking to it!
5. I am not "stay at home mom" material. I tried it for a little bit, and I will kill something if I have to do it again. No, that is not something you should call CPS about. I would never harm my children! Don't take things so seriously next time! I am just not a very patient person, and if I wanted to walk behind somebody and clean up after them ALL day long and all NIGHT long, I'd be a personal maid and get paid for it. If I wanted to listen to whining ALL day long, I'd go work in a veterinary clinic. At least the whining wouldn't include the phrase, "Mooommmmmyyyyy! I don't WAAAANNNNNNNTTTTTTTT to!"
6. I like pickles at the bottom of my strawberry milkshake. No, it's not a pregnancy thing. I actually liked it BEFORE I had kids. I like to dip french fries in vanilla ice cream. McDonald's fries work the best. I like ranch dressing on top of pizza...chicken too. Sheesh I'm making myself hungry, so I'm going to get off of this subject....NEXT!
7. Stupid people infuriate me. I USED to be patient. I'm not anymore. I hate being stuck behind the person with the Idaho license plate driving in Houston at a whopping 50mph on the highway. A highway that is posted 65mph. A highway that NO ONE drives slower than 70mph on. I especially hate being stuck behind them, and when I switch lanes to go around, they decide to cut back in front of me. I will rear-end your ass if you do that. I hate being stuck behind the person who doesn't seem to know that the pretty green light means GOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
8. I used to be introverted. Yep. Bet you didn't know that. lol I wasn't really shy, per se, but I was really quiet until I got to know you or had something to add to the conversation. Otherwise, I sat and listened. Now, I could care less. I will shoot off at the mouth about anything and everything! lol
9. I hate feet. Feet DISGUST me. I don't care if they're clean and I watched you clean them. I don't care if they've been dipped in bleach. I don't care if you're a foot model. I don't care if you just had a pedicure. If you touch me with them, I will throw up all over your toesies.
10. I have completely run out of things to say! Yep. Weird.
Posted by Shauna at 3:54 PM 2 comments
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
So...what's going on with me?
Well, I'm in hell. Yep.
Painful, electrical-shocky, cut off my arm, and rip out my spine hell. And I'm quite positive that "shocky" is not a word, but I don't care.
So, just about everyone knows the crap I go through with my spine, and if you don't...well then, you either don't pay attention to my random bitching from time to time, or you're new to the
musings rantings blog.
Quick background:
Degenerative Disc Disease...few various, weird, sometimes scary accidents...a couple of herniated discs...random paralyzations of my arm from time to time...doctors sticking GINORMOUS needles into my spine and injecting it with steroids, because it's swollen....
Yeah. I could go into a LOT more detail, but well...I don't feel like it.
Besides, it's difficult to type with one hand.
Now you're all caught up.
Now, my spine has decided to stop cooperating at all. Apparently the abuse it has taken over the last couple of weeks of moving into a new office and getting it set up, has made it go on strike.
Anyone ever had to have their husband help get them undressed at night?
Get your mind out of the gutter...naughty, naughty. I can see where your brain went. It might have been fun for him, but not for me! HA!
Anyone ever need help getting dressed in the morning?? Hmm??
Raise your hand if you have...let me see them people. Ok, raise both hands if you needed help tying your shoes (or zipping up boots in my case)....HA! If you needed help you wouldn't be ABLE to raise both hands! HA!
I'm talking nonsense, I know. Ok...so maybe my brain has gone into some weird, defensive reaction.
Thank god I have a doctor's appointment on Friday.
Otherwise, by the weekend, I would be a quivering mass of jelly that you could poke with a stick.
Posted by Shauna at 9:36 PM 1 comments


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7 April 2020
Contribute to the fight for socialism in 2020
We need you to help the WSWS and ICFI make 2020 the year of international socialist revival. We must expand our work and our influence in the international working class. If you agree, donate today. Thank you.
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|NYG&B Society Voted to Disenfranchise
July 19, 2007
Special Meeting at the G&B, members voted to eliminate themselves. The meeting was spirited to say the least. A motion to delay the vote on the bylaws changes was easily defeated due to the fact that the G&B used the proxy votes to control all matters before this meeting.
Read a full report and observations on my Blog site by clicking on the "UNYG Blog" tab at the top of this page, and then search for NYG&B.


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List of screen icons
Turn call waiting on or off
Use music player
Cancel all diverts
Set up your mobile phone for internet
Some applications aren't ended completely when your mobile phone returns to the home screen. If you don't end them from the list of running applications, they keep running in the background which may slow down your mobile phone.
End running applications
Tap the Application key.
To end one running application, slide your finger right on the required application.
To end all running applications, tap CLOSE ALL.
Tap anywhere to dismiss
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Add an unhackable Ransomware protection
Thousands of new viruses are being created every week to attack your computer. Your antivirus software should effectively protect your computer against known and unknown malicious programs.
Independent antivirus test results reported below confirmed ZoneAlarm's superior ability to detect and remove viruses from your computer. In addition, ZoneAlarm includes unique features like the OS Firewall, which work hard to prevent viruses from reaching your computer in the first place.
Virus Bulletin is the leading specialist publication in the field of viruses and related malware. In the publication's April 2008 comparative review, Virus Buletin awarded Check Point ZoneAlarm its VB100 certification. Learn more at Virus Bulletin/ VB100 or see our Awards and Recognition page.
AV-Comparatives is an independent organization that tests how well different antivirus engines detect viruses and other threats. Review these test results to see how Zonealarm PRO Antivirus + Firewall performs in comparison to Norton, McAfee, Micorsoft and others antivirus products. Look for the test results for Kaspersky, which represents the antivirus scanning engine in ZoneAlarm 7.0 and later. See Anti-Virus Comparative tests February 2008.


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Commercial Fryer Accessories
At Mission Restaurant Supply there are a number of fryer baskets and accessories designed to complement your frying stations. These durable fryer baskets are also available in specialty models like the taco shell baskets and tortilla fry baskets. Other items include fryer clean out rods, night covers, casters and more! Invest in fryer accessories from Mission Restaurant Supply when you buy a commercial fryer and equip your frying stations with all it needs to be successful.
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- Thomas took a serious dip in the 1960's, but recovered 30 years later.
- David reached his peak in the 1960's. Nowadays he is not popular anymore.
- Benjamin is rapidly losing steam.
- Until the 1970's nobody knew of Chloe. Now she is the most popular.
- Charlotte follows right behind.
The editors writes: "Not strictly a genealogy website but nevertheless one that may be of interest to researchers. Produced by the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages and The Powerhouse Museum, the Baby Names Explorer site is an interactive site allowing you to browse through more than a century of the top 1200 baby names in NSW.
"Enter all or part of a name in the name field and the graph adjusts to show the pattern of name usage over time. For example, entering the name 'Barbara' shows that the name reached its peak in the 1940s and was the 7th most popular girls name at that time. This site is a fun way to see whether your family naming patterns were typical of the time."
Above: The rise and fall of the name "Robert" in NSW. (Please note: you cannot enter a name above. Click on "Baby Names Explorer" above. It takes a while to load.)
Keep in mind that these statistics related to only one territory -- New South Wales -- in Australia.
- Interesting subject for someone to do research in South Africa. How many babies are still baptised these days as "Jacomina" or "Johanna" or "Jacobus"? When did "Mireille", "Zander" and "Edzard" occur for the first time?