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That seemed to be the general consensus of the audience in Toronto who saw the latest leg of Charlie Sheen's "Violent Torpedo of Truth/Defeat Is Not an Option" tour.
Toronto Star's television critic Rob Salem said that Sheen had lost his sparkle. "Gone was the crazy-man ranting, anti-wife chanting and profane half-baked mystic mumbo-jumbo that has characterized his performances, onstage and off, since this whole mess started," he wrote.
U.S. & World
TMZ reported that the actor lit up a cigarette—make that an electronic cigarette-onstage, technically conforming to the theater's anti-smoking law. That's edgy, right?
Then, the Star said, Sheen took an extended break to enjoy an actual cigarette, playing a video to keep the crowd entertained.
Either way, the show lasted 40 minutes short of the announced run time, starting 25 minutes late and ending 20 minutes early. And when it ended, it was on another extremely odd note.
Sheen welcomed a woman named Wendy Newman onstage, explaing that she had contacted the actor through his Facebook page asking if he could honor her late husband during his appearance.
Newman was brought up, carrying an urn containing the remains of her late husband. She had explained to Sheen that the only thing that got her through her husband's recent death were episodes of "Two and a Half Men."
Sheen toasted Newman's husband with a glass of non-alcoholic cider, and the show ended abruptly shortly thereafter.
Though it wasn't the disaster of Detroit, the show -- or the star -- seem to be losing steam.
Selected Reading: Hollywood Reporter, The Toronto Star, Globe and Mail


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[Verse 1]
They shipping that Lam to the crib while I'm on tour
When I get off of this bus it's gon' be pedal to the floor
'Fore a nigga even step foot through the door it's gon' be laps in that ho
Dolo - fool I ain't got time for no bitches
But I do got a Rolex where my long sleeves ending
A house on my wrist, a car on each pinky
I got all of this from laughing at them lames
While I'm rolling up my sticky, lightning struck again
Jet Lifers, niggas always rewriting history
Fools hear our verses and rewrite that shit they scribbling
Bitches see my bitches and consider trying women
I pulled up drunk, talking shit in the lobby of my building
Push the button and the elevator took it straight to the ceiling
Doors open in the living room, that's penthouse pimping
Yea girl I did it, I'd advise you to play your position
'Fore you see another ho in your jersey tryna score 30
Ya heard me, a nigga been focused since I said hi to 'er
We higher than the Eiffel
You suckas is like food. Fool, who designed you?
Nigga I was built to make sure this sucka shit get kilt
Homie I'm a whale, big mufuckin' fish
Of course you gon' see a ocean where I live
Of course if I rolled it, it's top shelf hemp
Of course she got them Jordans on tryna impress him
Titties out when I fall in, bring the whole city out
I did it for Slim
Spitta wasted no time releasing music after his studio album, The Stoned Immaculate. Here's the first track from his collab EP with producer Harry Fraud, Cigarette Boats. .

subset: commoncrawl


text:
It's easy to get frustrated about the current state of diabetes treatment. As my daily email inbox will show, doctors still fail to diagnose diabetes until it has been given years to damage patients' bodies and when they do diagnose it, they all too often treat it with dangerous drugs and toxic low fat dietary advice.
But as infuriated as we may feel that so many people are suffering tragically unnecessary complications because their doctors don't have the time or inclination to learn more about diabetes than the "education" they receive from perky ex-cheerleader drug reps, there are some grounds for optimism.
The greatest of these is the increasingly powerful role of online patient-provided diabetes education.
It's been a decade since my own diabetes diagnosis. When I first checked into an online diabetes support group in 1998 people who would suggest using a low carb diet to lower blood sugars would be greeted with accusations that they were trying to murder diabetics because everyone knew that the low carb diet destroyed kidneys and gave people heart attacks. (You can read the research that found these beliefs to be wrong HERE.)
The diagnostic criteria for diagnosing Diabetes based on fasting glucose had just been changed in 1997 to 126 mg/dl, but the news of this change was slow to get out and many family doctors were still diagnosing diabetes only when fasting blood sugar rose over 140 mg/dl. This meant that most people who were newly diagnosed already had significant neuropathy.
Many people with Type 2 diabetes were taking Rezulin. A few months later we learned that Rezulin had caused many completely unnecessary deaths due to liver failure, mostly because doctors ignored the warning not to prescribe it to people with elevated liver enzymes --which are very common among people with Type 2. Only after many people died was it was finally taken off the market.
There were also discussions going on in 1998 about whether Metformin, approved three years earlier, was safe. Some people posting online interpreted the transient early side effects of metformin as signs they were developing lactic acidosis and stopped taking it, though subsequent studies have shown this side effect to be extremely rare and to occur at the same incidence in people taking Metformin as it does in those who do not take it.
A friend diagnosed a year before I was was taking part in a pre-approval study of a new "miracle" diabetes drug. That drug was Avandia which was only approved by the FDA the next year.
Back then, people whose A1cs were near 7% were convinced they were in excellent control even when they were experiencing blood sugars above 200 mg/dl at every meal--though few people back then knew what their blood sugars were after eating, because doctors rarely told people with Type 2 to test their blood sugar at all, and if they did tell them to test, they told them to test once or twice a week first thing in the morning, fasting.
There was no understanding within the medical community a decade ago that blood sugar spikes were to blame for the damage caused by diabetes. My own doctor said my blood sugars in the mid 200s were "nothing to worry about" because my A1c was in the 6% range and would not prescribe test strips to me because my fasting blood sugar was normal (i.e. under 110 mg/dl) thanks largely to my low carbohydrate diet.
I had to pay for my own test strips myself, at $.60 a piece which was a lot more money than it is now thanks to inflation. There were no cheap brands available. These test strips were even less consistent in their readings than the ones we have now and tended to go bad by the end of the container.
There was little to no understanding even among specialists of the "Type 1.5" forms of diabetes. The expensive endocrinologist I saw offered me no treatment or explanation for why I had diabetes despite maintaining a normal weight or why I had had abnormal GTTs and Gestational Diabetes in my 20s and 30s when I weighed under 120 lbs. All he did was suggest I switch from my Bernstein diet to a "Meditteranean" diet. I did that for several weeks, gained ten pounds, got back on the blood sugar rollercoaster and spent the next year badly out of control.
Other adults I met online reported that they had been treated as "Type 2s" even though their blood sugars went higher and higher until they ended up in the hospital with DKA and were told they were Type 1s.
When I visit an online diabetes support community today, the picture is very different. Though most doctors aren't giving people much better dietary advice than they were getting a decade ago, they are diagnosing people earlier and they are taking pre-diabetes much more seriously. This is important, because the evidence is very strong that the most significant "diabetic" complications, neuropathy, retinopathy, and heart disease begin at blood sugar levels that are defined as "pre-diabetic."
Every online community now has its "greeters" who orient new visitors and explain to them the importance of testing their blood sugar and keeping their post-meal blood sugars as low as possible.
Though the ADA continues to promote the ineffectual, low fat diet that raises blood sugar and provides a steady stream of customers for the junk food companies and drug companies that are its largest sponsors, the diabetes patient community as a whole has accepted that the low carb diet is safe and effective.
It is impossible now to spend more than a few minutes reading any online diabetes discussion board without reading of the benefits of cutting back on carbohydrates. My inbox is filled with letters from people with Type 2 who have done just that and achieved the 5%-range A1cs that almost always result from cutting back on carbohydrates. The online community is also helping people become more aware of the impact of the drugs they take and alerting people who are misdiagnosed with Type 2 about the possiblity that they might have one of the Type 1.5 forms of diabetes.
The situation for Type 1s is even more dramatically improved. Pumps and CGMSs are helping people with Type 1 achieve blood sugars in the truly normal range. Newer, faster meal-time insulins like Apidra also help make this possible. I am heartened by how many young Type 1s report that they have A1cs in the mid 5% to low 6% range. Ten years ago, this simply did not happen and long term it means that these people are likely to be much more healthy and complication free.
It stinks that much of this improvement has been going on despite rather than because of the current standard of medical care. But I have hopes that the new administration in Washington will make changes to the FDA that might rein in the drug companies, limit drug advertising, and even, one allows oneself to dream, encourage doctors to recieve their continuing medical education from sources other than drug company representatives.
But even if that doesn't happen, the power the internet has given people with diabetes to reach out to others and give them the education they need to remain healthy is such that it is transforming diabetes management no matter how far doctors lag behind.
And not all doctors are lagging. Some who see patients making dramatic changes in their health with non-drug solutions are recommending low carb diets to their patients. Some doctors who themselves have developed diabetes in middle age are discovering the limits of the treatments they have been prescribing. Eventually we will reach critical mass and even the ADA will not be able to keep everyone from understanding the impact of dietary carbohydrate on our blood sugars or the importance of achieving normal blood sugar levels.
Looking forward, the most interesting development I see is this: Over the past year or two, the drop in price of the arrays used to do genetic testing is making it possible for researchers, finally, to investigate the genetic underpinnings of diabetes by testing large populations and statistically analyzing hundreds of thousands of SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) looking for the subtle genetic flaws that until now were impossible to detect.
What they are discovering is laying to rest the idea that Type 2 diabetes is caused by gluttony and sloth. Almost every week a new genetic flaw is discovered to be prevalent in people with Type 2, many of them, to the surprise of investigators, flaws that limit insulin secretion, though a few common SNPs found in people with Type 2, are alsoo being linked with increases insulin resistance or, more interestingly, defects in the way that the liver releases glucose.
Though doctors are not aware of this research and many still blame patients for their diabetes, the genetic advances we are starting to see are beginning to change this. Only this year the media have started to describe Type 2 as being genetic in origin rather than, as was the case in the past, describing it as being caused by an indulgent lifestyle.
Over time, these genetic discoveries will lead to improvements both in early diagnosis and to the development of carefully targeted and more effective treatments. We will start to understand the impact of specific genes and see that Type 2 diabetes is not one uniform disease but a constellation of genetic flaws which impact different parts of glucose metabolism and hence require slightly different treatments.
It is even possible that with the political changes we are seeing, society will finally be informed that the main reason for the so-called "obesity epidemic" and spread of diabetes is factors that are causing genetic damage: Exposure of infants to environment toxins like BPA, pesticides, PCBS etc, and to the overuse of food science disasters like immunotoxic soy in our food supply. There is already a lot of research that backs this up. It has only been because our EPA was hijacked and set to serve the interests of huge industrial polluters that this information has not been acted on.
We still have a long, hard battle. Industry profits when they pollute or use cheap chemicals in food instead of expensive natural ingredients. They profit again when we get sick and require expensive drugs.
Doctors have no incentive to make us so healthy we don't need to pay them for $30,000 operations, so you will always see more press about how diabetes can be cured by expensive surgeries or controlled with $200/month drugs than you will about how cutting back on junk carbs could do the same thing.
But we people with diabetes are uniquely fortunate among those who have chronic diseases that we can reach out to each other and improve our own condition simply by sharing common sense proven techniques with each other.
So with that in mind I wish you all a Happy New Year, one filled with health, hope, and prosperity. If you are out of control thanks to the holidays, check back on Friday and we'll start our New Years Diabetes Detox together.
Linoleic acid makes you hungry
5 days ago


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Fayette residents will be asked next week to approve the replacement of two existing levies. Replacing the levies will bring their value up to existing property valuation.
The 2.0-mill park levy was last replaced in 1998, but the 2.9-mill general operating levy has not been updated since 1968. Replacing the park levy would add about $5,600 to help with general maintenance and special projects.
The general operating levy would grow by $21,000—just enough money to cover the cost of the annual loan payment for a village-wide street paving project. A grant covers half the cost of the $401,000 project.
The majority of the village streets will be resurfaced through the combined sewer overflow project, but those that aren't included will be addressed through the paving project.
Village administrator Steve Blue told council members on Wednesday that a few recent changes were made to the sewer project which will then effect the village-wide street resurfacing project. Nearly every street will be resurfaced, but not those considered to be already in good condition.
Curbing is not part of the project—that would have added much more to the cost—although streets should be paved to a standard width and the project will repair the edges of streets that are crumbling.
The owner of a home valued at $75,000 would pay about a dollar a week in additional taxes. Residents who are 65 years and older or disabled can apply for a homestead credit that subtracts $25,000 from the value of a home for taxation purposes.


text:
Seattle launches one of the nation's first Active Traffic Management systems. The technology is designed to help drivers both avoid existing traffic congestion prevent future congestion from forming.
Massive volumes of data, multiple copies, hidden and encrypted files expand the challenges for investigative teams.
Despite the New York state comptroller's rejection of a $7.5 billion IT staff augmentation consulting contract, the State CIO/Office for Technology stands by its cost methodology.
Bergen County, N.J., uses fingerprint scanners to accurately deliver social services to the homeless.
East Orange, N.J., Police Department uses surveillance cameras, sensor technology and predictive analytics to identify crimes before they happen.
Montana officials believe it's the first U.S. state to install a 'heat wheel' in its data center, which uses climate control technology to keep server temperatures and costs down.
The Marshfield, Mass., Police Department has deployed more than a dozen video cameras in high-risk public buildings to secure town infrastructure.
As state and local governments debate the security and potential cost savings of private data storage, Greenwood County, S.C., migrated to a Google Apps solution.
By the end of 2010, Verizon plans to launch a massive long term evolution (LTE) network, reaching 110 million Americans in 38 major markets across the country.
State and local agencies seek ad space and sponsors to keep afloat financially.
By hosting technology on Microsoft's Azure cloud platform, Democracy Live enhances online absentee ballot tools for Americans abroad.
By early 2011, motorists on two of America's busiest roadways will have access to a high-tech tool that forecasts potential traffic jams up to 10 minutes in advance.
With bar codes on tax bills and an upgraded online tax search, the Madison County, Ky., Sheriff's Department hopes to streamline services for taxpayers this season.
Office of Enterprise Technology signs agreement to make Minnesota the first U.S. state to house key business applications in a private cloud, officials say.
Social media use in the private sector mirrors government trends, according to survey analysts.
Ramsey County Sheriff's Office lets public view real-time footage from 10 surveillance cameras to help prevent crime.
Arlington County expects light-emitting diodes to save more than $1 million per year and benefit the environment.
Gopal Khanna will leave his post on Dec. 15, wrapping up five years of service, in which he helped save the state $200 million.
Ultra-high speed broadband service costs $350 per month in Chattanooga, Tenn., so it's targeted at businesses rather than households.
Boone County's website makes it easier for departments to upload news, announcements and vital emergency information to the public.
With aerial imaging technology, code enforcement officials can verify complaints from residents about neighborhood violations.
Georgetown County, S.C., brings 25 of the popular Kindle wireless reading devices to local libraries as part of ongoing push to adopt new technologies and improve youth literacy.
Planning and GIS teams launch new mapping site to help residents and developers find data for nearly every local cemetery, billboard and cell tower.
As part of an evaluation test, a military-based device transmits invisible beam that creates temporary heating sensation, which lets jail officials intervene in brawls sooner.
California and Sprint will team up to deploy system that aims to save lives and protect property by delivering warnings and safety information via text alerts to wireless phones in specified locations.
E-government transparency drops a point in the second quarter of 2010, according to the E-Government Transparency Index report from ForeSee Results.
With federal stimulus funding for seven broadband projects, state officials believe California is one step closer to plugging broadband gaps in remote and rural areas.
City officials seek to increase efficiency and interactivity with iPads for city council members and a new 411 texting service for citizens.
Facing backlash from privacy advocates, Riverhead, N.Y., has stopped using the free satellite imaging service to find pools that don't have proper permits.
The first black female CIO of New York state went from living in housing projects to launching statewide IT projects.
Innovative program sends tax collectors into the community with tech tools to reach taxpayers who prefer personal assistance.
Santa Rosa County, Fla. used a mobile app to track the flow of the BP oil spill, plans to use the tool for hurricanes and other emergency situations.
With new software, Milwaukee County officials expect to save money, reduce paper and provide citizens with more access to government affairs.
Cape Coral, Fla., expects to save $27,000 a year by subscribing to a national online company that tracks verified commercial property inventory.
With tools that can scan miles of rough terrain, identify bodies by heat signatures and pick up vibrations in the ground, border patrol agents can extend protection to cover large areas.
The new $1 monthly fee on Internet-based phone service will help Hinds County, Miss., pay for emergency services, such as new technology, call towers and dispatching upgrades.
California officials move forward with program to develop next-generation emergency response systems that integrate text, video and picture services.
By purchasing iPad tablet devices, the city expects to enhance efficiency and save hundreds of thousands of dollars in paper usage.
With more than 2,000 payments processed, Arkansas.gov's mobile applications have become one the state's most popular online features.
Massachusetts CIO Anne Margulies is stepping down to become CIO of Harvard. Deputy CIO John Letchford slated to take over as interim CIO.
Property owners can apply for a 50 percent match on qualifying projects that improve stormwater drainage.
With turbine and solar energy projects, city officials expect to reduce energy use by 25 percent and save $1 million a year.
With help from stimulus funds, Ann Arbor, Mich., acquires four garbage trucks outfitted with technology to boost efficiency and keep fuel costs low.
In an unusual example of shared services, Fort Collins, Colo., will pay the Poudre School District to maintain and upgrade e-mail used by more than 1,800 city employees.
As part of a multiphase $160 million ERP project, L.A. County's new Web-based payroll system enhances payroll processing and tracking, serves more than 105,000 county workers.
By mapping, identifying and linking criminal hot spots with predictive analytics software, Tennessee police department reduced crime by 31 percent in four years.
For law enforcement, a laser mapping tool comes in handy to pinpoint vital pieces of evidence and create maps for records and court cases.
Lakeland, Fla., provides basic medical services to city workers and saves $1 million by reducing insurance claims.
Following LACoSurveyor on Twitter tracks tract and parcel maps, which may be an early indicator of economic recovery.
New system lets traffic officers fill out citations electronically, write crash and incident reports and send data to city's clerks system with the touch of a button.
The search engine giant unveils website to promote development of experimental ultra high-speed broadband networks.
Eligible health-care providers that comply with 'meaningful use' standards can reap stimulus funding incentives.
Edmonton CIO Chris Moore prepares to launch a virtual replica of the city for collaboration and training, to encourage tourism and economic development.
Traffic violators face a judge through a live video feed in new pilot program designed to improve delivery of municipal services for citizens.
San Francisco and other cities seek ways to engage software developers and spark long-term innovation.
As the financial crisis hampers e-government programs, analysts push for new evaluation methods to address current needs.
IPhone app gives San Ramon Valley, Calif., residents a glimpse into the district's 911 dispatch center.
In a pilot program to preserve the environment and save money, Laurel, Md.'s public works department deploys handheld scanners and tags to make sure residents follow city's recycling mandate.
Issues include electronic health records and upgrading Medicaid eligibility systems.
Yavapai County becomes the first Arizona county to use e-poll books in a pilot project to increase voting convenience and reduce the number of rejected ballots.
Alabama awards a performance-based contract to review its Medicaid claims and help recover funds owed.
Using the fast, free assessment tool, Rhode Island's IT team receives instant first impressions from citizens on the design and usability of the state's website.
New technology is a sleeve that fits over an iPhone and captures electronic fingerprints, iris scans and photographs, but does it impact individual rights?
In partnership with state and local agencies and education institutions, the job-matching engine analyzes talent pools and growing fields to fill local work force holes.
In collaborative effort, local government and law enforcement agencies launch new website for citizens to track criminal activity around the clock.
Once Mayor Gavin Newsom signs the proposal, the law will require retailers to post the amount of radiation emitted from their phones starting in February 2011.
Through a high-tech scavenger hunt, Ida County, Idaho's Weed, Pest and Mosquito Abatement Department seeks to educate the public about specific weed infestations and weed control efforts.
To break free from arbitrary limits of Manatee County's current website, IT staff chose Magnolia CMS as an open source solution, plans to unveil new site this summer.
With virtual desktops from Citrix Systems, IT officials can deliver data, apps and processing to any device on demand and repurpose $250,000 in funds that would have gone to refreshing aging hardware.
The California State Board of Equalization unveils two apps that put BOE information a click away for residents using mobile devices.
Despite electronic initiatives for government payment and document processes, paper remains a costly, cumbersome problem for tax collecting agencies.
GovLoop will award five free registration passes to those who create the best short video responses to this question: 'Why are you the next generation of government?'
Marion County, Fla., becomes latest to accept emergency calls via text message from people who need help but can't speak.
Transit networks in New York and New Jersey link up to launch a smart card pilot program for riders of subways and buses. Will this be the end of the MetroCard?
Upgraded work force management system could save the city $830,000 a year by boosting efficiency and eliminating paper-based processes.
Los Angeles County's Quality and Productivity Commission recommends sensor and infrared technology, tracking systems and surveillance satellites as potential tools to detect forest and brush fires.
As cloud computing interest grows, poll results reveal that most voters believe technology can boost efficiency at state and local levels.
For no money down, the Alabama Medicaid Agency will work with Ingenix, a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group, to review claims and identify funds owed to the state.
Emergency notification technology keeps residents informed about various disasters in certain areas, expedites public safety responses.
Should a state spend $1.15 million on a Web-based portal designed to connect students, support college and career transitions?
First-of-its-kind online service allows rental car companies to monitor each vehicle in their fleet, pay off citations more quickly and steer clear of costly penalties.
Santa Clara County, Calif., signs off on historic and innovative measure that allows residents to register to vote by writing e-signatures on iPads, iPhones or other mobile devices.
Schools in Ohio, New York and Massachusetts increase focus on science, technology, engineering and math.
Interactive mapping tool gives residents and businesses 24-hour access to property data such as floodplains, public lands, trails, zoning and more.
Georgia program pairs unemployed IT professionals with computing teachers to boost number and diversity of computer science students.
Udemy aims to democratize online education by allowing users to post videos, presentations, blogs and host live virtual classroom sessions.
Miami-Dade County pilots voice recognition tools to verify delivery of Medicaid services and curb in-home health-care fraud.
Automated parking garages use computer-controlled motorized lifts to park cars, save space, emissions and money.
Four years in the making, the Quake-Catcher Network uses inexpensive motion sensors installed in volunteers' computers to collect earthquake data in real time.
To lure Google's ultra-high speed broadband trial to Topeka, Kan., Mayor Bill Bunten renamed capital city after the search giant for the month of March.
As the nation's first state to offer Google Apps for Education in K-12 schools, Oregon officials hope to boost communication and collaboration through cloud networking.
Virtual queue system lets customers use mobile phone numbers to hold their positions in line, receive text message alerts when it's their turn.
Wilmington, N.C., becomes a test bed for using TV 'white spaces' to provide connectivity for smart city initiative.
The Durham, N.C., 911 Center adopts software that shows 3-D, aerial images of buildings, highways and other structures, gives first responders better picture of the incident scene.
In parts of Florida, traditional town meeting concept gets a virtual makeover, helps local governments save money and expand outreach.
To better manage emergency call stats, U.S., state and local governments look to deploy Web-based 911 management system.
The Lee County (Ala.) Sheriff's Office enhances realism with new simulation training program.
New land management software in Catawba County, N.C., integrates centralized network, GIS platforms to streamline planning and permitting process.
After receiving a glut of meter-related complaints, transportation officials in Washington, D.C., are testing new payment programs to help reduce parking meter problems.
An internal social networking site, officials say, would make it easier for employees and diplomatic officials abroad to communicate, collaborate and identify experts in specific fields.
A new proposal aims to scan license plates to identify and penalize people who owe the city personal property taxes.
Fort Wayne 311 call center will pre-qualify applicants for federal home improvement grants and loans totaling $700,000.
Competition offers $5,000 in scholarship awards for NYU-Poly graduate students best Web-based application proposals.
After years of transitions, city officials believe new IT chief will bring diversified public- and private-sector experience to critical post.
With mandated adoption deadlines looming, governments have no choice but to seek health IT support in areas such as electronic health records (EHRs) and medical coding standards.
State and local water utilities and water companies consider smart technology to detect leaks and help customers monitor water use. But at what cost?
This fall, Florida's capital city will launch a comprehensive smart grid designed to help the utilities staff and customers better manage energy usage and save money.
The U.S. State Department recently launched a Web visualization forum to foster open dialog on foreign affairs. Does such a platform have potential benefits for state and local governments
Google acknowledges creative efforts of U.S. cities hungry for ultra high-speed network, plans to announce target trial site(s) by year's end.
New Missouri project gives road crews instant access to weather conditions, creates safer roads and better task management.
The eco-friendly city releases data sets from the city, county and region for innovators to create apps for cash prizes.
With federal funding support, city officials in Klamath Falls, Ore., explore new technology that converts low-temp underground water into electricity.
As the Fayette County attorney's office goes paperless, computer network gives lawyers instant access to specific files.
Despite some political objections, state officials say high-tech machines that register identity data could help the state crack down on fraud and save tens of millions of dollars.
Designed to combat crime and terrorism, the latest biometrics devices signal the future of law enforcement.
Chicago's first Web site overhaul in nine years improves transparency, provides access to social media tools and runs on an open source operating system.
The Office of Management and Budget seeks to address inconsistency concerns with data reporting plan, guidance to agencies and revamped Web site.
A state capital changes its name and a mayor jumps into an icy lake in two of several gimmicks deployed by cities to attract Google's fiber networks.
As part of a campaign to end childhood obesity, the $40,000 contest calls for innovators to incorporate U.S. Department of Agriculture nutritional data into games and tools.
U.S. General Services Administration cancels cloud infrastructure RFQ, plans to issue new one that seeks more offerings from vendors at a higher level of security.
With new a screening vessel, a helicopter with a radiation-detecting module and a WMD-sniffing dog, port authorities bolster line of defense against terrorists.
California's CIO office unveils standard for state agencies to develop secure telework and remote access.
With federal funding support, the county plans to enhance public safety efforts with centralized communications upgrades.
Mobile application gives iPhone users California DMV wait times and educational tools.
Stalled by the economic recession, California designates research clusters of companies, nonprofits and universities to stimulate innovation through collaboration and create jobs.
County waste division officials plan to cash in on environmental efficiency by selling carbon credits to companies.
With online check register, Cook County, Ill., residents can examine where tax dollars go in a government repeatedly tarnished by corruption.
Application design challenge produces valuable software tools worth millions, helps citizens interact with and use government data to their advantage.
New statewide network for IT staff augmentation services would maximize the state's buying power, reduce technology service redundancy.
King County, Wash., council member pushes initiative that would require county agencies to publish data sets (crime stats, transit info, etc.) online by June 1.
With collaboration tool, governments can create interactive mockup applications, receive feedback early on to prevent cost overruns.
Community hospitals in Ohio collaborate to create paperless care process that revolves around the patient.
U.S. telecommunications and public safety agencies join to test and develop new 4G wireless solutions that would upgrade emergency response communications.
Folsom, Calif., library uses gaming to keep patrons' interests.
With nearly $20 billion from the Recovery Act earmarked for electronic health record incentives, state and local governments lend support, enforce accountability.
Inconsistent grant management practices in state governments could hurt chances for states to win optimal amount of federal funding.
Federal Web sites earn high marks for transparency, navigation and functionality, trail private-sector industries such as search engines, portals and e-retail.
In 2011, five U.S. cities will get the chance to receive a customized Web 2.0 solution to improve transparency and efficiency.
Quasi-government agency plans public-private partnership to give Web-based e-mail and office productivity applications to state and local governments.
In massive IT transition, states have less than four years to upgrade disease diagnosis code sets.
As federal and state officials prioritize defense strategies against cyber-attacks, Maryland aims to be nation's cyber-security 'epicenter.'
Unique policy allows state departments to access free software, potentially save millions of dollars.
After years of trial and much error with citywide broadband plans, municipal governments find ways to deliver Internet access to the public.
Landmark public-private partnership could be a catalyst for national health records system.
Developed from a public-private partnership, Georgia's Web-based statewide information system improves data sharing and produces real-time case records.
Federal funding will help state enhance cyber-security projects, boost emergency management operations.
Chief information security officers and technology leaders celebrate President Obama's selection of government and industry veteran Howard Schmidt.


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Accessibility Options
Hello My Friends,I hope that you have a moment for an update on all that is taking place in our community. We have reached many milestones and have achieved some major accomplishments since my taking office November 16, 2010.
November 2010
Disparity Study
The Broward County Commission held a workshop to discuss the 2010 Disparity Study. The purpose of the study was to examine the past and current status of women and minority owned businesses in Broward County. The NERA economic consulting firm was hired to determine if current race and gender neutral programs have eliminated discrimination.
After a two year preliminary investigation, NERA did find statistical and anecdotal evidence of discrimination against women and minority businesses in Broward County's relevant market area. The study also noted that the availability of women and minority businesses was substantially lower than in a commercial marketplace free from discrimination. There was also a significant gap in earnings.
As promised, I have been aggressive and persistent in bringing about change that has increased business opportunities for minorities and women including sponsoring a change in our Procurement code that allows for small business to have sheltered contracting opportunities.
December 2010
Trinidad Trade Mission
Last year, I led a delegation of 20 people to Trinidad and Tobago on a trade mission to encourage trade and develop profitable business relationships with the Caribbean nation. They are the wealthiest Caribbean nation in terms of per capita income. Trinidad companies already do business with our airport and Port Everglades. There are key business opportunities in areas such as alternate energy and wholesale items that Broward County can benefit from. The Nation of Trinidad and Tobago is ranked 28th among Florida's top 50 merchandise trading partners with total trade valued at an estimated $914 million in 2010. Exports from South Florida to the twin island nation totaled $850-million last year.
Pompano Beach Clean-up and BeautificationIn partnership with Volunteer Broward, Pompano Beach City Officials, local sponsors and volunteers, a series of beautification projects has taken place throughout District 9, beginning with Collier City. Work in the community included trash pick-up, landscaping vacant lots, planting flowers, shrubs and trees and repairing homes that have had previous code violations.
On the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday weekend, We organized a Social Services Fair at Blanche Ely High School. Social Service organizations such as 2-1-1 Broward, and Minority Builders Association discussed the services they provide to those in need of assistance.
The goal is to bring these vital service providers together under one roof to educate people about what they do and to discuss what's available. We need to increase community awareness and outreach to Broward residents.
"Commissioner Holness, during his campaign promised me that he would bring change to this section of Pompano Beach. I'm going to hold him to that promise." Ms. Jones means it. "This is my passion, to bring this neighborhood back to what it once was. This is my Dream."
Black History Month Exhibit Display downstairs in the Government CenterThrough my efforts, Black History Month was celebrated in February with an exhibit entitled "From Slavery to the White House" in the Broward County Governmental Center lobby. In addition, Samuel F. Morrison, former Broward Library Director and driving force behind the creation of the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, received a special proclamation from the County Commission naming today as "Samuel F. Morrison Appreciation Day."
Charles Drew Students Get a Lesson in Governance.Approximately 50 students from Charles Drew Elementary School attend the Broward County Commission meeting; they also had the opportunity to tour the "From Slavery to the White House" exhibit. Today's youth are tomorrow's leaders!
Community Partnership & Economic Growth Opportunities Forum I hope that you were among the many people who attended the Community Partnership and Economic Growth Forum for small and local businesses. This forum showcased future business opportunities at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport as the airport goes through a $1.5 billion dollar capital improvement and renovation during the next 5 years. Thanks to those who did attend.
Sister Cities Visit Broward CountyI would like to thank all our Sister City leaders who promote the many Sister City relationships Broward County municipalities have. What you do has a very direct benefit to Broward and the region. My thanks also to Broward College, The Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance, and Broward County for sponsoring The Sister City Forum and Reception. Thank you to our distinguished Panelists and our Moderator for the evening, Bob Swindell, President/CEO of The Greater Fort Lauderdale Business Alliance.
AwardsLegacy Magazine Legend of the Year AwardsI was honored to be awarded the "Public Official of the Year" and one of the "50 Most Powerful Black Professionals in South Florida" by Legacy Magazine. A committee of community leaders and business executives chose the top 50 black professionals from nominations that were submitted by their peers.
Among the accomplishments noted in Legacy Magazine:
Ambassador Audrey P. Marks Visits Broward CountyIt was an honor to welcome Jamaican Ambassador to the United States, Honorable Audrey P. Marks, to Broward County on her first official visit. Broward Commissioners greeted Ambassador Marks at an April Commission meeting and I presented her with a proclamation. Many business meetings were held that I'm sure will result in economic development opportunities in Broward County. She is the first female Jamaican Ambassador to the United States, appointed to the office in July 2010. She is the founder of Paymaster Limited, the first multi-transaction agency in the Caribbean. She is the first female President of the American Chamber of Commerce of Jamaica (AMCHAM).
April 30 Roosevelt GardensCommunity Clean-up at Roosevelt Gardens was a success! Thanks to all the volunteers and people who made it happen!
Commissioners and staff accommodated the students from Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary, and they had a wonderful time. One student said, "I don't want to leave 2nd grade so I could keep coming back here." I truly believe everyone made a difference in the future direction of these children's lives.
At the beginning of the 2010-2011 academic school year, the Kiwanis Club of Lauderhill Eagles volunteered once again at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School to work with the second graders through Kids and the Power of Work (KAPOW). The Kiwanis Club conducted monthly visits to talk, counsel and present the second graders with information, skills and alternative ways of looking at and analyzing their lives at this moment in time. The KAPOW program lasts the length of the school year, and its finale assembles a field trip for the students. The field trip mobilizes the kids as it takes them into a functioning professional work space and allows them to observe the practicality of a workday. KAPOW is dear to my heart because it's a project I started in four schools within District 9 while I was Commissioner in the City of Lauderhill. I will continue to support this program because it brings endless value to our children and community.
Saturday, June 25, 2011, on behalf of Broward County Mayor Sue Gunzburger and the Board of County Commissioners, I was honored to present The Honorable Joseph Michel Martelly, President of the Republic of Haiti, with a Key to the County and a Proclamation in honor of his first official visit to South Florida.
As part of the 2011 9/11 National Day of Service and the HandsOn Network's 9/11 Week of Service campaign, Volunteer Broward (a HandsOn Network Affiliate) will be facilitating volunteer projects throughout the week leading up to Sunday 9/11/2011. I have partnered with Volunteer Broward and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary to present a day of memorial, celebration, and service.
Volunteers will be creating a memorial garden (with plaque, tree centerpiece) for those who were lost on 9/11. Participants will also be decorating large thank you poster-murals made for local Fire and Police departments, as well as local veterans groups.
There will also be disaster preparedness information and resources for families and individuals who attend.
The event will take place:Sunday, September 11,Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary591 N.W. 31st Ave., Lauderhill
Please be assured that in my ongoing passion and effort to improve economic strength and job creation, I will work tirelessly to make Broward County the center for trade in Florida to the world, especially Latin America and the Caribbean. In doing so, my goal is to join the world in celebrating World Trade Month during the month of May, 2012. As a result, over the next several months, my staff will work on the initial planning phase of a Florida International Trade & Cultural Expo, slated for May 22 to May 25, 2012. Please stay tuned for more information.
Thank You!
In closing, let me express a heartfelt thanks to my constituents and supporters for having the confidence and trust in electing me to the Broward County Commission – District 9. Remember to update your voter's registration if you have moved and be ready to ROCK the VOTE in 2012.
A special thanks to my office staff Lavern Deer, Natalie Levy and John Beckford. Thank you to my Advisory Council Coordinator, Clyve Webster and the entire Council, for their dedication in addressing the needs of our citizens. Kudos to all of the county staff, volunteers and interns that have graciously helped the District 9 Team along the way. We have done much since November, but there is much more to do. Stay tuned. Stay engaged. "Together we can do better!"
Broward County - "Our BEST, Nothing Less!"


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33 Rainbow Lane
Lehigh Woods, Palm Coast, 32164
Commute to Downtown Palm Coast
Almost all errands require a car.
About your score
33 Rainbow Lane has a Walk Score of 0 out of 100. This location is a Car-Dependent neighborhood so almost all errands require a car.
This location is in the Lehigh Woods neighborhood in Palm Coast.
Explore how far you can travel by car, bus, bike and foot from 33 Rainbow Lane.
33 Rainbow Lane is in the Lehigh Woods neighborhood. Lehigh Woods is the 7th most walkable neighborhood in Palm Coast with a neighborhood Walk Score of 3.


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Hernandez to be stretched out as starter in camp
PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. -- Roberto Hernandez talked briefly about joining the Rays this spring after seven Major League seasons with the Indians.
Speculation about where he might be used on the Rays' staff was answered Thursday -- at least for the time being -- by Hernandez and Maddon.
Hernandez considers himself a starter and smiled when asked about pitching in the bullpen, without elaborating. The 30-year-old right-hander has pitched in 184 Major League games, and 153 of those appearances have been in a starting role.
When asked about Hernandez's projected role, Maddon said: "We will treat him as a starter right now."


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The winner of Cake Ladies cookbook is:
#61- Nicole from nuts4knitting said "My knitting buddy, Susan, fits the description of a cake lady, which is a new term for me, perfectly. If there is an occasion, a birthday, retirement, or a day which ends in "d a y", she bakes a cake. For Christmas, she cranked out sixteen chocolate cakes. She is the only person I know who can go to the dollar store, chat with the cashier as she is paying and come out with a new cake recipe. She baked it for us at knitting, an apple cake, which was amazing, She should sell her cakes, to help her make ends meet, but she says that would take out all the love she puts in her cakes. This book would be for her!"____________________________________________
And the winners of the Grimmway Farms coupons are:
#5- Heather of Kitchen Concoctions
#11- Carole Douglas


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SEOUL, April 29 (UPI) -- South Korean lawmakers are urged to embrace the spirit of solidarity by passing a human rights measure regarding North Korea, a party leader said Monday.
The conservative ruling Saenuri Party is pressing for the passage of legislation that aims to improve the human rights condition in North Korea. Party leader Hwang Woo-yea said it was time to move the measure forward.
"We should strive to pass the North Korean human rights law," he was quoted by South Korean news agency Yonhap as saying.
The bill was introduced during events meant to coincide with the so-called Week of North Korea Freedom.
Last year, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a measure by a voice vote describing Pyongyang is among the most brutal regimes in the world. The measure said that "thousands" of North Koreans are subjected to forced labor, torture and death in work camps.
Human Rights Watch said as many as 200,000 people are in the North Korean gulag system. The rights organization said North Korea has hidden a system of systematic abuses behind "bluster and defiance."
North Korean rhetoric has sparked concern among U.S. defense officials about security on the Korean Peninsula.
North Korea in February conducted an underground nuclear test that it said was part of an anti-American program. Both sides have put missile systems on alert, though there are no imminent signs of war.


text:
There are no Upcoming Shows listed for this comedian.
Aaron Krebs
Aaron Krebs is a founding member of Mission IMPROVable and an owner of the Westside Comedy Theater. He comes with 20 years of short form game experience. Eleven of those years have been with the M.i. National Tour Company. He currently produces and manages the Mi National Touring companies out of LA and Chicago. Aaron has experience with Comedy Sportz Chicago, Second City, iO West & Chicago, among others. He has TV comedy credits with Family Guy, Modern Family, World Cup Comedy, Daman Wayan's Underground, & Glenn Martin DDS. He currently teaches and performs with both Westside Comedy Theater and iO West and can be found in the Mission IMPROVable Friday and Saturday night shows.
Check out: www.aarontkrebs.com
Aaron Krebs's Upcoming Shows
Aaron Krebs is Known For


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We all hear about how we should update our privacy settings on Facebook all the time, but for some people, it takes a prank like this one—where a guy comes up to random folks and tells them real details about their life—for it to really hit home.
It's easy for a lot of the stuff we post on social media to not feel tangible, you know? So I can definitely see why Jack Vale's joke here really creeped folks out in person.
SOCIAL MEDIA STALKER PRANK! [Jack Vale]


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Sign in with your social network or your Queensland account here.
If you have signed up via our This Is Queensland smartphone apps, when you sign in here your bookmarks will appear and you can continue on with your holiday planning. Simple!
Don't think you've signed up ever before? Tap register to get started.


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Cheap Calls to Bhutan only 7 ¢/min
Get started with ChilliTalk
Low Rates to Call Bhutan
You've just proposed to your partner. You've sealed a big business deal. You've enjoyed a wonderful day by the beach. Whatever your situation, share your experience with your friends, family, colleagues in Bhutan by using the ChilliTalk app. It's free to download and free to use if your contact also has the app. Recommend us to anyone and you'll receive £5 credit on us – just like that. Whether you're using a landline, Smartphone, or iPad, ChilliTalk is accessible wherever you are. Your convenience and how much you can save by talking to someone thousands of miles away, is a priority and demand that ChilliTalk thrives upon. So what are you waiting for? Register your numbers today and see, and hear, for yourself, the amazing benefits ChilliTalk has to offer.


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A woman believed to be the last female World War I veteran, Gladys Powers, has died in British Columbia at the age of 109. A tomboy, at 15 the British-born Powers lied about her age and joined the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps, later moving to the RAF as a barracks waitress. Clearly an indomitable lady, Mrs. Powers divorced one husband, survived three more and founded the Western Canada Pekingese Club. While authorities believe Mrs. Powers to be The Great War's last female survivor, it's impossible to know for sure, as many British WWI records were destroyed during the Blitz. [Telegraph]
More from Jezebel
109?! Sweet mother of crap! Can you imagine a precious old lady surrounded by Pekingese?!


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Litio Foto Batería Varta Cr123a 6205,Batería Varta Cr123a 6205 Litio Foto,Las mejores ofertas para Varta CR123A (6205) Lithium Photo Battery están en ✓ Compara precios y características de productos nuevos y usados ✓ Muchos artículos con envío gratis.Batería Varta Cr123a 6205 Litio Foto.
"We are delighted with the garage door. Thank you for all the trouble you took; also, your fitters were superb. We shall not hesitate to recommend you in the future."
I want to spread the word around about the great experience I had. Prompt service and great customer service. Well done!!
- Ruth Carter
Efficiently handled the issue and professionalism was the thing which I liked in their service. Not even a single second was wasted.
- Thomas Phillips
© 2015 The Original Middle Village Garage Door Repair - All Rights Reserved.


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Losing (login-) connection with a site on a new tab
User Help for Mozilla Firefox
16 posts • Page 1 of 2 • 1, 2
I use Firefox version 58.01
When I am logged into a site, and I use the "alt + enter" key combination on the address bar to open a new tab, I lose the connection with that site on the new tab.
That was not the case in the old version (for version 57).
Is it a bug? Or what can I do to keep the connection in such a case.
Do I have to set something different from the Firefox (config) preferences?
Is there anyone who can help me solve this unpleasant problem?
Last edited by Storm-_- on February 1st, 2018, 2:17 pm, edited 3 times in total.
Moving to Firefox Support.
What's the URL for the site where this is happening?
What specific key combination are you using in that instance? (Alt+what?) Most Firefox key combinations use the Ctrl key, reserving the Alt key for displaying main menu items.
Thank you for your reply.
Sorry, it is the "alt + enter" key combination. It is a normal key combination.
(I have changed it in my previous message.)
it happened on the site "https://ello.co/"
No, the key combination to open a new tab in that situation is Ctrl+Enter. The Alt key is not involved in that function.
I think the OP is correct about the Alt+Enter combination. It does indeed open an new tab. The Ctrl+Enter combination refreshes the current tab. (At least these two things are what is happening on my system.)
OS: Windows 7 Pro. SP1 x64
Sorry sir, it works ok on this site (for example): highlight the URL (on the address bar) and then type ALT + Enter.
Ctrl+Enter does not work with me ...
Thanks @BuddhaNature ...
Oops. You're both correct. Sorry for that confusion.
Still, I'm not seeing any disconnect or 404 error. I'm not logged into the site as I don't have an account but I'm not sure if that is what's different between your results and mine.
You can make a free account and you will see.
The google chrome browser does it well.
See if https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/ke ... ks-quickly still shows "Open Address in New Tab" as 'Alt + Enter' in FF 58?
(Site does sniffing, so on a "foreign" browser, no telling what you'll get.)
Fire 750, bring back 250.
Mozilla/5.0 (Windows; U; Windows NT 6.1; en-US; rv:22.214.171.124) Gecko/20110420 SeaMonkey/2.0.14 Pinball CopyURL+ FetchTextURL FlashGot NoScript
I have added "(login-)" to the title of this topic.
Because that's what I mean actually ...
Crappy site then.
Kellogg's (https://www.kelloggsfamilyrewards.com) does the same.
Log in.
Open a new tab, new window, whatever, & type in the https://www.kelloggsfamilyrewards.com (or open a link from the original kelloggsfamilrewards page that you logged in from), & it does not show that you are logged in - in that new tab/window.
Fire 750, bring back 250.
Mozilla/5.0 (Windows; U; Windows NT 6.1; en-US; rv:22.214.171.124) Gecko/20110420 SeaMonkey/2.0.14 Pinball CopyURL+ FetchTextURL FlashGot NoScript
Crappy site or not, you say it, but Firefox 57 and higher loses the login connection.
The old Firefox did keep the connection, so I'dont know what is 'crappy' ...
Other browsers keep the connection in the same situation ...
That makes at least two sites ...
Thus, If there is not a single setting that I can change for solving the problem(?), it must be something in the program.
What was the old FF?
What are the sites that you loose connection to?
Which are they?
Fire 750, bring back 250.
Mozilla/5.0 (Windows; U; Windows NT 6.1; en-US; rv:188.8.131.52) Gecko/20110420 SeaMonkey/2.0.14 Pinball CopyURL+ FetchTextURL FlashGot NoScript
it may be possible that server set a special cookie only valid for this connection, another window/tab means another connection = another cookie. i dont hink its crap its just for security to avoid stealing sessions - maybe a unique feature for firefox and not chrome.
16 posts Page 1 of 2 • 1, 2
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At&t let a third party charge me $9.99 without my consent
I got a spam SMS from 31850 asking me to sign up for some quiz, I just ignored it, I've always heard not to reply 'STOP' to spamers because then they know your number is real and being spammers they don't care what you reply. I've seen messages on this board where people reply 'STOP' and it does no good.
Anyway, I just got my bill and AT&T let this "third party" (it's in quotes because they have to be in cahoots with at&t for this to happen) charge me $9.99 for their subscription. I don't have time to deal with it now but I'll probably have to take time out of my day monday call At&t.
I usually don't get upset over stuff but I can't believe that AT&T lets someone sign me up for a $9.99 a month charge without consent, without a password or pin or an email or anything.
By the way, you are all now signed up for my subscription service. Please read this sentence to confirm.
@wingrider01 wrote:
You did agree to something in some way shape or form, the companies have been challenged and each time they have been able to supply documentation on the agreement - do a little search engine scanning.
It can be something as simple as "by taking this survey / quiz you agree to a monthly charge to be submitted to your carrier" or By downloading this ringtone you agree to a monthly subscription charge to be added to your phone bill"
A great deal of evidence and actual AT&T employees staffing the AT&T customer service line refute this line of thinking. Nothing I wrote in my post is untrue, and I'm not inclined to believe that the many others posting here are either lying or as absent of recall as you imply.
{keep it courteous} Again, the only other conclusion is that everybody else (including AT&T reps in an *official* capacity, unlike yourself) are far less informed than your seemingly lone voice.
Your drone of "must be pilot error" is becoming wearisome. If you truly want to assist, might I suggest a new course of action?
@jorn_k wrote:
@wingrider01 wrote:
You did agree to something in some way shape or form, the companies have been challenged and each time they have been able to supply documentation on the agreement - do a little search engine scanning.
It can be something as simple as "by taking this survey / quiz you agree to a monthly charge to be submitted to your carrier" or By downloading this ringtone you agree to a monthly subscription charge to be added to your phone bill"
A great deal of evidence and actual AT&T employees staffing the AT&T customer service line refute this line of thinking. Nothing I wrote in my post is untrue, and I'm not inclined to believe that the many others posting here are either lying or as absent of recall as you imply.
{keep it courteous} Again, the only other conclusion is that everybody else (including AT&T reps in an *official* capacity, unlike yourself) are far less informed than your seemingly lone voice.
Your drone of "must be pilot error" is becoming wearisome. If you truly want to assist, might I suggest a new course of action?
try taking a few seconds out of your busy life and do the actual research, you might find that what is being stated is actually true. No matter what you believe you did agree to it in some way shape or form, no carrier would be inane enough to add a charge from a 3rd party company without that company having some form of authorization given to the 3rd party company by you - research verizon forums, sprint forums, cricket forums, t-mobile forums, use bing / google to research the compalints filed against said companies for deceptive practices. A lot of time "pilot error" is the cause. I know, been burned and researched it with the professionasl to verify that it happens just that way.
Wingrider is correct. This happened to my daughter, my husband, and my parents. I did some research on the subject, including the companies who bill the $9.99 charges through AT&T, some of which increase to $14.99, $19.99 and so on, within a short time. It happens will ALL the phone companies, not just AT&T. My understanding is that the phone companies have NO CHOICE in this. The law allows the third party billing. A very helpful Qwest customer service representative explained it to me when I called about charges on my parents' bill about 2-3 years ago. The phone companies don't like the charges either, since the customers get mad at them. Whether you realize it or not, you ARE consenting to the charge when you take that quiz or survey. My daughter had no idea that the Facebook quiz she took would result in a monthly subscription charge for $9.99. My husband and parents never figured out what they did to incur the charges, and they did not have Facebook accounts at the time it happened.
All of our charges were removed immediately by the phone company involved, without any hassle. We added the purchasing blocks and have had no extra charges since then, which was about 3+ years ago. Don't blame Wingrider for being right!
I love all the AT&T fanboys who stick up for a company that allows this.
Your ignorance astounds me.
This has happened to me twice in the last month. I use my phone for business purposes ONLY. No surfing for ringtones, illicit sites, surveys. I don't have a facebook, google+, twitter or any other social networking.
I don't even have it listed and a google voice number is given to everyone, which then rings where I tell it to. I only have an ATT number so that I can be reached via google voice. My number is never dirctly rung.
This last time customer service said I signed up for this when I was in the middle of a triathalon. My phone was in the car turned off. The first time I supposedly "signed up" was when I was at work, phone locked in car.
Essentially, ATT condones this behavior because they're greedy. Their CEO is greedy and an old dinosaur in the technology world. If you don't catch this nonsense they sign you up for in 60 days, then it's permanent and they take a cut.
This is why I still receive a paper bill, pay by check and do NOT use auto-bill payment.
The old saying, "A fool and his money are soon parted" comes to light here.
ATT will cease being my provider if they don't stop this.
When you said "I didn't reply to any of them". That's where you gave consent to be charged. If you examine the messages closely, they inform you you've been signed up and can "opt out" by replying STOP to the message. Your lack or replying is what gave them permission (because they offered you a way to opt out I guess), hence, no reply = tacit approval to charge your account. Even if you do reply stop, you'll likely be charged anyway, because these crooks now ignore people who respond to opt out anway....
It's not so much the carrier, but the 3rd party company that's at fault here, but partially it's the fault of the carrier, in so much as they don't do much to stop it, and you... yes you, are partially to blame because you did something, somewhere along the line to invite this scam upon yourself (or some mobile user on your account). For example, filling out sweepstakes, voting by phone, entering your phone number into an unsecure website for "free" ringtones. Basically, anything offered to you for free in exchange for some information, (i.e. name, address, phone number, email, etc), gets you onto a list which culminates with a text message from somewhere in the ether that obfuscates the fact that you've been charged.
None of this is accidental. It's all carfully crafted by these scammers to play on your normal reaction to a normal situation. For example, the text they send you is meant to easily appear to be a harmless hunk of spam that they KNOW you likely won't look at, and they trick you into it because they KNOW you THINK the charges cannot appear on your bill without your consent. So you get the number from your carrier and you THINK you have their phone number, but you don't. You have the number to the company that is a agregator 3rd party billing company, so you ask them for the number to the company that charged you, and the give you the number then, and you STILL don't have the number because that company has a parent company, who is the one to authorize your refund (after they sit on your money for a month or two). That's if you get the refund. Often times, you'll find yourself in a game of pass the buck where the carrier, the billing company, the decoy company, and the parent company are all pointing fingers at one another, or just let you yell at some poor sap in the Phillipines who says I'm sorry, can't help you, or hangs up on you because you won't quit and hang up on them.
I must say... I've been with AT&T for 3 years plus now, and I've NEVER ONCE had any 3rd party charge on my bill.... and I've not even install the 3rd party content block onto my account (yet, that's why I'm on the site right now). Also, I was with T-Mobile for 5 years prior to coming to AT&T, and I never had a problem with them either. I did get a 3rd party charge once, but it was because I entered my number into a website and got dinged for $10 bucks. Actually the best 10 bucks I've ever spent, because it prompted me to investigate to the point where I knew how to avoid getting these charges on my bill. I know my bill amount to the penny, and when it went up 10 cents recently, I noticed it and investigated it (The regulartory fee went up 10 cents). Anyway, I keep waiting to get hit with something here or there, and it never has happened yet. With the 3rd party content block in place, I'm pretty safe.
So now everyone knows how to avoid these charges, also check out AT&T's page on 3rd party charges too, it explains it pretty well too.
Wingrider, I *did* take some time from my busy schedule and did quite a bit of reserach. I posted about it already in this thread.
I'd add that local television stations have been conducting investigations into this situation and have come to the same conclusions: No user interaction is required for the "slammer" to add a recurring charge to one's phone bill. Again, this was confirmed by an AT&T support representative.
Here is a link to an example of a story from KARE11 in MInneapolis.
KARE11 did a follow-up to the piece linked above. It is rather interesting.
You know what I'd like? I'd like ATT to show me the agreement they say they read in circumstances like this.
Me too. I called AT&T and asked for it. The person helping me tried not to chuckle when he said "There's no such thing."
@jorn_k wrote:
Wingrider, I *did* take some time from my busy schedule and did quite a bit of reserach. I posted about it already in this thread.
I'd add that local television stations have been conducting investigations into this situation and have come to the same conclusions: No user interaction is required for the "slammer" to add a recurring charge to one's phone bill. Again, this was confirmed by an AT&T support representative.
Here is a link to an example of a story from KARE11 in MInneapolis.
they are only one of thousands of stations, consumer rights groups and other investigations that have occurred on this issue. Have seen numberous basic waysof you "agreeing" to the charge, which in turn authorizes them to bill your mobile account
1. download a "free" ringtone/wallpaper/etc and in the fine print of the "agreement" it states by doing this you agree to the monthly subscription
2. answer a "quiz/intellilgence test/survey" on one of the social sites which also triggers the authorization to bill by you
3. for your free update text "insert their phrase" to [enter any shortcode for texting] and what they don;t make apparent is you also agree to a monthly charges
4. you request information then you get a response "reply with the word "STOP" to cancel the X.XX a month charges - which is worded that if you DON"T text stop you agree to the monthly charge
Example number 4 is the example to your comment of "no user interaction is required" - if don;t do anything you are agreeing and authorizing them to bill your account, to prevent you are required to text "STOP" to the short code. So yes by your lack of interaction you agreed to the charge, this is true for the majority of the carriers
those are just 4 of the multitude of ways they get you to agree and they get more creative as time goes on. The Carrier, like a credit card company has no idea if the charges is valid or not, the charging company has your recieved your agreement by underhanded ways.
Best way to prevent this is to automaticly put a purchase block on the account and require a CVS code entered by the account holder to authorize the charges - which IS available already by carriers, it is just not automaticly applied, you have to request it. Best guess as to why it isn;t is that it is a inconvience to the account holder that actually utilzes purchases - like from the android phone and windows mobile phones.
As long as the company supplying the charge to the carrier can produce documentation that the end user agreed to it, the carrier will not refuse it unless there is a problem, you can pretty well be assured that all the companies out there get the end user to agree by plan english that is not read or underhanded ways. Just like a online / brick and mortar outlet will not refuse a retail purchase if the buyer has the correct authorization, as long as the authorization is there, then the purchase goes through.
The only thing I blame any of the carriers in this whole issue is they do not automaticly put a pin requirement on the account for purchases, require this and the companies that do the slamming will be put out of business fairly quickly, it will inconvience the account holder, but it will prevent the issue
This happened to me. I did not authorize the charge in any way, I'm a software engineer so I am well aware of how technology works. I did not do anything, I simply got a SMS saying I had already signed up when in fact I had not. AT&T did not believe me but still removed the charge.
It basically seems like some third party people are faking authorizations. I don't think it's AT&T's fault really, they are just the billing party in this scenario. But they do need to take note of fraudulent companies and block their charges.
On a side note, 4 other people at my work had the exact same charge, same story as me... just got an SMS saying they had signed up when they had not.
My AT&T phone bill was charge of $9.99 for Words/Definitions ale, provider: Mobile Plus, Inc..
and I NEVER sent or received a text or accepted ANYTHING.
I'm sorry that you were charged by a spammer. Please take a look at this information regarding purchase blocker: http://forums.att.com/t5/Wireless-Billing/3rd-Party-Subscriptions-amp-Purchase-Blocker/td-p/3095123
As of May 1st, I am no longer serving as the Community Manager for AT&T. This account will no longer be able to accept private messages.
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Wingrider, just a thought:
All it takes is *one* example of a charge being added which was genuinely without any kind of user permission, and you are wrong. No number of cases where there was some kind of user permission proves that it never happens without user permission.
Furthermore, we started getting these on a phone, many months after getting the phone, when it had NEVER been used for anything but communication with one other person on the same account. That number is not given out or used in any way. No downloads of ringtones, etcetera.
In short: You're engaging in utterly ridiculous, over-the-top, victim-blaming. What you've got going here is a cognitive error common to all humans called the "just world fallacy"; the belief that it is ALWAYS the case that people are somehow culpable when bad things happen to them. You can't accept that the spammers might just be getting away with something, so you come up with this theory that there must actually be some kind of permission happening.
But it's not the case. Yes, there are many tricky ways people can get "authorization", but that doesn't mean that every time they start billing, they used one of those. There are dozens of ways that people can scam stores out of stuff. That doesn't mean that there's no such thing as shoplifting.
The billing system allows third parties to start billing people without permission. AT&T has *confirmed* that this is the case, and that there are cases in which the third parties do not actually have permission. The "forward to 7726" thing exists partially because it helps cell phone networks track the spammers and disable their short code accounts.
Please stop trying to make excuses for scammers. Yes, purchase block is a good idea, but the fundamental problem is that the cell phone networks will accept charges without any sort of confirmation, and that scammers abuse this by charging for things without any kind of permission. That really does happen, and even if you were actually able to provide links and support for your claims that often there is a trick involved whereby they "got permission", that doesn't even begin to prove that it doesn't.
And you're quite right that a purchase PIN would solve the problem. So would simply requiring a response text saying "ACCEPT" in response to all "subscription" services. The problem is that you can get signed up through inaction. If any sort of action were required, AT&T (and other carriers) could check their logs for whether the user had sent ACCEPT, and they would not have this problem.


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Southern Maine - 2, Farmingdale State - 1
Farmingdale, N.Y. - Southern Maine freshman shortstop Sam Dexter's (Oakland, ME) two out RBI single to left field in the top of the seventh broke the 1-1 tie and led the Huskies to a 2-1 non-conference victory this afternoon in Farmingdale N.Y.
In the bottom of the first, freshman first baseman Dalton McCarthy (Manorville, N.Y.) gave the Rams (5-8) a 1-0 lead after a two out RBI single to left which scored sophomore second baseman Tom Rydzewski (Franklin Square, N.Y.)
Southern Maine (3-0) evened the score at 1-1 on a Matt Verrier (Norway, ME) RBI single to center field in the top of the second inning.
Trailing 2-1 in the bottom of the ninth, McCarthy hit a two out ground rule double to center field but the Huskies forced the final out to capture the 2-1 victory.
Junior pitcher Logan Carman (New Fields, N.H.) earned his second win of the season after allowing two hits and one run while striking out seven in 6.2 innings of work. Junior Forest Chadwick (Gardiner, ME) pitched a scoreless ninth inning to earn the save.
McCarthy was 2-for-4 at the plate with an RBI, while Rydzewski added a hit and a run scored.
Sophomore second baseman Anthony Pisani (Cheshire, Conn.) was 2-for-4 with a run scored for the Huskies.
Senior pitcher Anthony Eilers (Bay Shore, N.Y.) recorded the loss after allowing one run in 5.2 innings pitched.
Farmingdale State next will host Southern Maine on Sunday, March 17th at noon.


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Saturday, December 31, 2011
2012 is here!
Posted by Steve Douglass at 8:32 PM 0 comments
Thursday, November 17, 2011
A Knife fit for a President
I made this hunting knife with the colors of the USA flag on the handle and stars are engraved on the bolsters.Engraving done by Alice Carter. It was presented to President Bush by Garth Merrick of Amarillo.
Blade Steel: 154 CM
Bolsters: 416 Stainless Steel
Hollow grind and hand polished.
Scales: Blue and red colored cow bone with ivory in the middle.
Blade Length: 3 1/2"
I truly feel very honored to know that President Bush owns one of my knives!!
Posted by Ian Van Reenen at 10:52 AM 0 comments
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Carving Set
Steel is 440 C with nickle silver handmade fittings. Nickle silver will stay beautiful for years since it doesn't tarnish.
The cutting edge of the blade was sharpened to 15 degrees which makes the blade razor sharp.
Stag handles. I love working with stag since it is such a classic handle material in the knife making world.
Flat grind on the blade with hand polished satin finish. Swedge added to blade.
Spanish notch on bottom of blade as embellishment and to accentuate the Spanish influence in Texas.
From a young age I used to watch my Dad carving our meat during family meals. My Dad also taught me the right way to carve meat. This tradition sparked an interest in carving sets. When I started making knives I always had it in the back of my mind to make a carving set. And finally I did and I can say that I am proud of this set. It is well balanced with the right blade length of 7 inches. It is an art piece which can be a heirloom.
Posted by Ian Van Reenen at 6:46 PM 0 comments
Loveless Style Hunter
Scales are stabilized curly Mable wood.
Pins: Stainless steel 416
Blade Steel: 154 CM
Guards and pins engraved with English scrolls by Alice Carter
Flat grind on blade and hand polished
Posted by Ian Van Reenen at 6:40 PM 0 comments
Loveless design hunter with desert iron wood scales and mosaic brass pins.
Engraving on guard by Alice Carter.
I used 154 CM blade steel by Crucible.
The blade has a flat grind and is satin polished.
Posted by Ian Van Reenen at 6:22 PM 0 comments
Sub Hilt Fighting Knife
A Customer ordered this knife which I finished today.
Blade Steel is 154 CM
Blade is 7 " long with a double hollow grind.
Fittings are nickle silver.
Handle material is imitation bone.
Click on picture to enlarge
Posted by Ian Van Reenen at 6:08 PM 0 comments
Monday, October 17, 2011
I completed this one for a friend on Friday, he was overwhelmed! The blade is Alabama Damascus, 7" long with hollow grind. Handle is white tail antler, guard is nickle silver. displayed on spalted maple base.
Please click on picture to enlarge.
Posted by Ian Van Reenen at 11:42 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
New Blade – Alabama Damascus...
It's been awhile since I posted a knife - so I figured I'd better do it. Here's my latest knife (already sold) but I'd gladly make one for you!
Spring – ATS34
My African design file work on blade and spring
Liners ,bolsters and shield 416 SS
Scales pre ban Ivory
Knife mirror polished
Posted by Steve Douglass at 6:30 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Alabama Damascus Liner Locker
It has been a while since I made a liner locker and I really enjoyed making this one. The blade and bolsters are Alabama Damascus and the scales Bark Ivory. The liners are anodized blue titanium. File work on the blade and spacer. This knife is a great collectors piece.
Thanks for looking
Posted by Ian Van Reenen at 3:41 PM 1 comments


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|African Journal of Marketing Management Vol.1(9) , pp. 211–219 , December 2009
ISSN 2141-2421 ©2009 Academic Journals
Modified stage-gate: A conceptual model of virtual product development process
Nader Ale Ebrahim*, Shamsuddin Ahmed and Zahari Taha Department of Engineering Design and Manufacture, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Accepted 31 December 2009
In today's dynamic marketplace, manufacturing companies are under strong pressure to introduce new products for long-term survival with their competitors. Nevertheless, every company cannot cope up progressively or immediately with the market requirements due to knowledge dynamics being experienced in the competitive milieu. Increased competition and reduced product life cycles put force upon companies to develop new products faster. In response to these pressing needs, there should be some new approach compatible in flexible circumstances. This paper presents a solution based on the popular Stage-Gate system, which is closely linked with virtual team approach. Virtual teams can provide a platform to advance the knowledge-base in a company and thus to reduce time-to-market. This article introduces conceptual product development architecture under a virtual team umbrella. The paper describes all the major aspects of new product development (NPD), NPD process and its relationship with virtual teams, Stage-Gate system finally presents a modified Stage-Gate system to cope up with the changing needs. It also provides the guidelines for the successful implementation of virtual teams in new product development.
Key words: Modified stage-gate system, virtual product development, conceptual model.
African Journal of Marketing Management - modified stage-gate: a conceptual model of virtual product development process


text:
Classification for Kingdom
Plantae Down to
Vitis cinerea (Engelm.) Engelm. ex Millard var. baileyana (Munson) Comeaux
Click on names to expand them, and on P for
PLANTS profiles.
Enter a scientific or common name at any rank. The report
will display the kingdom and all descendants leading down to
the name you choose.


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Aurora is one of the leading Italian manufactures of pens. Founded in Torino in 1919, just after the end of the World War I, the name Aurora, the dawn, was chosen to represent the beginning of new things. Aurora has been known for its high quality Italian craftsmanship, beauty and design in each pen it creates.
Since that time the company has lived to that expectation, never forgetting its roots and the passion of its history and country.
Aurora Classic Fountain Pens Currently Available ............


text:
Hey! have a look my new artwork, wish u like…thanks!
|Prints / Wins
|Votes Received
|Votes Given
|Shirts Owned
Hey! have a look my new artwork, wish u like…thanks!
haven't dropped anything in the last few months what's up with that?
hi! please check my designs vote if you like them, thanks:)
hey, you really supported my "where the clouds came out" a while back, it is now on voting at Lafraise under "classics" any chance you could vote there?
hi, Friend!!, You have great designs!! if you have time, please check out my designs n vote if you like them..thanks=)
Thanks for the support and vote!
thanks for the support Kaizenick.
Thanks for the usefull comment! Think you have a point. Thanks and good luck in your mission.
hey!!! thanks for the support man!!! im happy about that!!! thanks again!!!
thank you very much for voting and commenting =)
thanks for the comment
Thanks for the critique!
I didn't think it was. Thanks again :)
thank you for the input dude…
thanks for the honest critique. I may insert a blackberry pie for my next design :)
Thx for your comment and vote!!
thank man critique is welcome and yes my next design my in could wooden texture .
it a tvr sagaris
thanks for the love
It's all good BeadlerWorks – thanks for the inspiration!


text: The concert season kicked off at the Liszt Academy at the end of August. Based on the experience of previous concerts and the recommendations of the bodies responsible for operating the Academy, the University has issued instructions on the rules aimed at preventing the spread of the epidemic and ensuring the safety of our audience, staff members, students and partners in its buildings. Below is information concerning provisions that also apply to members of the audience.


text:
By buying this product you can collect up to 13 loyalty points. Your cart will total 13 points that can be converted into a voucher of Rp 13.000.
Beats MIXR - Lightweight And Powerful. Built For DJs
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Beats MIXR Headphone - (OEM Quality)
Beats MIXR - Lightweight And Powerful. Built For DJs
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Beats MIXR - Lightweight And Powerful. Built For DJs.
Beats MIXR David Guetta New Design 2014 LIMITED EDITION
David Guetta challenged Beats by Dr. Dre to create the perfect set of world-class ear cups. One year and thousands of prototypes later, were proud to present one of the lightest, loudest, and most durable headphones ever.
Industrial strength sound.
Designed to be heard over parties. Beats Mixr DJ headphones deliver extremely deep bass at extraordinarily high volume. Made for pros warming up the party.
Made for DJs.
Rotating ear cups swivel back behind the ears, and then rotate back for total isolation. With dual input and daisy chain connectors, its easy to share what youre listening to.
Incredibly durable.
Beats Mixr headphones are built to withstand the rigors of DJ life, which means creating a housing flexible and tough enough to take a beating. The ultra-flexible headband was also crafted to be super lightweight and easily foldable for jetting off to your next destination.
No customer comments for the moment.


text:
just got in a BSA boss 1.5-4.5X32 illuminated scope with the turkey plex crosshairs.
very nice looking scope for $58 shipped-- could it be the "poor mans budget AR-15/AK scope!"??
glass is exceptionally clear ,very bright for its price range, the mag range is very close to advertised , the 1.5x looks to be a tad LESS than 1.5x --maybe 1.10x
4.5X is looking to be slightly over 4.5x-- close to 5x on mine. it covers enough mag range to do the job on a 5.56, and is more than enough for a 9mm carbine.
the only gripe about it so far is the turkey plex is a bit busy and the illumination in red and blue is not up to the optisan mamba but usable when you find the illuminations sweet spot , the green looks fine but the blue and red are sort of fuzzy in places.
it has exposed turrets that lock , they click you can hear and feel but not as solid as the crossman/centerpoint but more solid feeling than the much more expensive optisan mamba.
it is about the same size as a PA 1-4x 24 or optisan mamba 1-4x.
it has about 4" of eye relief and the "sweet spot" in the eye box is pretty generous, very generous for such an inexpensive scope.
so far it looks to be a hell of a deal for a budget AR-15 scope. my only concerns are how well the turrets hold up . by the way they feel i suspect they be OK.
it compares very well to some much more expensive glass i have on hand. i suspect this is the SAME scope BSA sold years ago as a "cats-eye"--they changed the cross hairs to the turkey plex and called her a shotgun scope.
now if they had put a euro #4 in here with a illuminated horseshoe/dot --were talking a "home-run" for an ar-glass!
i wasn't all that "warm and fuzzy" about the optisans BDC/circle dot till i started using it. i might find the "turkey-plex" a bit better than first glance after a bit of use.
the glass in this BSA seems better than the crossman/centerpoint T1 that was supposed to retail for close to $200, and looks much better than the cheapo simmons and bushnelle banner 3-9x 40, in fact it seems closer to the mamba and the PA 1-4x scopes - i'll have to live with it a while to be sure.
but this is the best 'cheap glass' i have seen so far--


text:
Meetings & Events
List of Meetings and Events on {{selectedDate | date:'fullDate'}}
List of meetings for {{search.year}}
List of Meetings and Events - All
Paperless Trade in International Supply Chains: Enhancing Efficiency and Security
20 - 21 June 2005
Salle XIX, United Nations
The Executive Forum on "Paperless Trade in International Supply Chains: Enhancing Efficiency and Security" will be an occasion for all countries, enterprises and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to work together to set a roadmap for the implementation of paperless trade to increase security and efficiency in international supply chains.
The sessions of the Forum will focus on the following: initiatives towards paperless trade taken by Governments and enterprises; the core issues and latest trends in automated information exchange for security and efficiency in international supply chains; best practices and benefits to national trade from Single Window implementations; the role that trade facilitation can play in simplifying and securing cross-border trade through standards and agreements.
Expected Outcomes
The Forum is expected to:
The Forum will aim to develop a roadmap putting forward a list of key issues in the implementation of paperless trade, including policy-oriented recommendations with a view to creating a dynamic environment for a paperless-trade system.