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Our relationship with you is what distinguishes Home & House as a true custom residence builder. When chickens are house pets, you turn out to be their flock, so you have to be ready to have them with you most of the time. She went on to be fourth runner-up in the Miss America contest, which opened the doors for her into the planet of modeling, commercials, and magazine covers. The story about Madame Kit Bender and how she was made will be featured at the doll makers' website coming quickly. The only time we use our entire residence is when we have a family reunion on holidays.
We hope this lens has improved your interest in visiting Thomas Edison's house in the Thomas Edison National Historical Park in New Jersey. I have no plans on purchasing a house on my own for very some time, and he plans on renting for a while. If your mom does choose to let the house go into foreclosure, she has two options as far as timing. There are so several problems with the residence that an inspector should have caught and I do not want to sell the property knowing that the troubles are there and not fixed. It sounds to me like you may be in a position to afford this property if you let go of some luxuries, like private school.
Because I am a frugal, keep-at-house Mom who is constantly trying to locate a way to pinch a penny, this is the perfect magazine for me. For much more information on ducks as residence pets check out this fantastic lens by XpectMorebizsolutions It is about their pet duck A Duck for a Pet, In the Residence, Wears Diapers…YES! I subscribe to Excellent Home anyway so thought it was my normal subscription and went to study it and saw my face staring back at me! Tempo Magazine focus on Politics, Economics, Law, Regional and International News. As to what we are teaching our sons, mine are finding out to maintain residence and be respectful.
Although Home & Property remains on the top edge of industry trends, it was a pleasant surprise for us to learn they nonetheless conduct their business the old fashioned way. The lender on the Indiana home can't come following something that is in your name only. Unity Home had a state-of-the-art theater, cabins, and a little disco and bar on the lake.
Our lease is up and we are about to move, i guess my worry is that it is me and not the residence…what do I do! I do not know what state you are in, gix, but there is possibly a law preventing the lender from placing a lock on your home with out giving notice. Need to make positive to stay away from widespread gift items that the received may possibly get a lot during the residence warming ceremony. We're beyond thrilled and extremely thankful to be featured in such a fashionable magazine.


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The Five Money Mistakes You Don't Know You're Making
Make the following five critical money mistakes, and you -- or your family -- could wind up paying for it.1. Not Checking Your Bank Account History
Checking your credit reports for free with annualcreditreport.com is a great first step, but even that comprehensive program, which lets you get one report from each of the three bureaus every year, doesn't cover all the financial bases. You should be checking your bank account history, too.
Before a bank will let you open an account, it runs your history through a database maintained by ChexSystems, which keeps tabs on everyone who's bounced a check or abandoned an overdrawn account. If you've ever tried to open a bank account and been denied, chances are there was something negative in your ChexSystems file.
"Most people don't realize it's even there until it's an issue," says Denise Winston, founder of financial education company moneystarthere.com. You can order a copy of your bank account report from ChexSystems here; if you forgot about an account that became overdrawn, or if someone opened an account in your name, you'll be able to find out about it and possibly clear up any problems before they prevent you from accessing financial services in the future. "You should get this once a year," Winston advises.
2. Not Updating Beneficiaries on Accounts and Insurance Policies
When you were young and single, you probably didn't give much thought to the beneficiary line when you opened a bank account, 401(k) or life insurance policy. Once you have a family, though, the responsible thing to do is to go back and accurately update that information.
If you pass away suddenly, even if you have a will, your assets could go to whoever you elected as a beneficiary (old flame? parent?) instead of to your spouse and kids. If you left the beneficiary line blank, that's even worse, because the state swoops in and claims the assets from your estate initally, and it takes valuable time and maybe even the services of a probate lawyer to sort it all out.
If something should happen to you, you want to make sure your loved ones have access to the resources they'll need. Experts say you should revisit all of your beneficiary information when you have a major change of life, such as marriage, divorce or the birth of a child.
3. Ignoring Ways to Lower Your Property Insurance
You probably already know that a defensive driving class can, in some cases, yield a lower premium on your car insurance, but there are other ways you can hunt for some insurance savings, says Jim Whittle, assistant general counsel and chief claims counsel for the American Insurance Association.
Some insurance carriers will cut you a break on your homeowner's insurance if you have burglar alarms, a sprinkler system or certain kinds of fire- and smoke-detection equipment. If you live in an area prone to high winds, you might be eligible for a break if you have storm shutters or reinforced storm doors. All these offerings vary greatly depending on your insurance company, your particular policy and your agent, but it never hurts to ask.
A surefire way to lower your premiums is to increase your deductible, says Whittle, but he adds this caveat: Make sure you have the amount of that deductible in an emergency fund, where you can easily access it if disaster strikes and you need to file a claim.
When it comes to your car insurance, check to see if you're paying for collision coverage. If you drive an old clunker, it might not be worth the expense. It's also not a bad idea to periodically check your policies and make sure you're not paying for anything you don't own anymore, like a personal watercraft or snowmobile you sold at the end of last season.
4. Ignoring Your 401(k) or IRA
Unfortunately, a retirement account isn't like a slow cooker; you can't just set it and forget about it, experts say. Research shows that the more options people have, the more confused they get and the less likely they are to enroll, according to Kelly Campbell, president of Campbell Wealth Management in Alexandria, Va., who refers to 401(k)s as "the forgotten asset."
That's unfortunate, Campbell says, because a portfolio with greater diversification stands a better chance of delivering better returns over the long run. As the decades go by, you want to shift a greater percentage of your retirement funds from stocks -- which earn more but are more subject to loss in a downturn -- to safer asset classes like bonds.
Until the recent market crash, many Americans relied on an investment product called a target-date fund, which held out the attractive option of automatic re-allocations. The trouble was, many were still overly risky and led people on the vege of retirement to lose a large percentage of their nest egg when the stock market took a dive.
These days, Campbell says, things have changed. "A year or two ago, [target-date funds] were more aggressive than they needed to be. They're positioned a lot better [now]," he says.
Even with the assistance target-date funds provide, though, Campbell says you should check your allocations every year to every two years and adjust accordingly. Here's why: If you invest even a small amount in a certain sector -- say, technology, which a lot of people did in the 90s -- and that part of the market takes off, you'll wind up with a proportionately larger share (since money you earn from that sector gets plowed back into it).
This multiplier process is a good idea in theory, but if the result is that you end up with a porportionately large chunk of your 401(k) invested into a single field, that leaves you vulnerable. Remember the dot-com crash? If you check your portfolio and find that your holdings in a particular sector have mushroomed, it's time to shuffle around your money to protect it from future fluctuations.
5. Not Teaching Your Kids About Money
There's been a boom in products lately, mostly prepaid debit cards, aimed at kids and teens. The pitch sounds seductive: The cards teach kids about money -- mainly, that if they don't follow the rules and read the fine print, it'll cost them -- in a way that doesn't louse up their credit or leave them thousands of dollars in the hole.
There's just one problem, experts say: These products are charging a hefty premium to do what parents themselves should be doing from the time kids are old enough to get an allowance.
Just what should you be doing to help your kids by financially savvy? Get them a checking or savings account that doesn't charge fees, maybe at a local bank or credit union, and make sure they understand what those statements mean when they come in the mail.
Another idea: When you use your credit card at a store or when the family's out to dinner, use that as a teachable moment, says Barry Paperno, consumer operations manager at MyFICO.com. "Parents need to talk to kids about credit, and there are so many opportunities to do so," he says. "I think kids can get the idea if you don't talk about it, that it's all magical."
Conversely, credit is one of the few areas in life where a young person can really get themselves into trouble at a very young age. Maybe they can talk their way out of breaking a curfew, or maybe they can get a teacher to offer an extension on an overdue report, but credit card companies aren't nearly as flexible.
"Even though the CARD Act limited the exposure of young people to credit offers," warns Paperno, "it's still entirely possible for young people to get themselves in over their head with credit debt." Don't wait until your kids are in trouble with money to start helping them learn their money lessons. Start early, and you'll help them avoid any problems in the future.

subset: commoncrawl


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Up Beat Dawley Weekender
The Up Beat Dawley Weekender has music, performances and dancing across Dawley.
There is a lot going on – In Harmony are performing twice but there is more to come to as well!
Friday 7 April 2017
In Harmony performance with the students from Old Park Primary school at the Dawley Dinner, Dawley House
Lunchtime performance by musician Tom Wenlock in the Band Stand, High Street, Dawley
4.30-5.00 pm
Nucleo Orchestra classical music performance at Dawley Town Hall
6.30-8.00 pm
Under 16's disco and street dance workshop at Dawley Town Hall (£1 entry)
7.00pm onwards
Live Music at Dawley Social Club
8.30 pm
Coaltrain (Blues Band) at the Elephant & Castle
Saturday 8 April
Free Family Fun Day – drop in at any time as we have various things happening throughout the day.
Between 11am to 3.00pm:
- The Musical Magical Bike – all day children's fun and games in the High St and Town Hall
- Drop in arts and crafts workshops in Dawley Town Hall all day
- Storytelling in Dawley Town Hall (2.45 pm)
- Spoons playing workshop in Dawley Town Hall (2.00pm)
- Musical Performance from Telford Community Orchestra (11am)
- Family sports in Dawley Park (subject to weather)
- Free refreshments
Between 3.30-5.00pm we are holding a
- Family Barn Dance with Dave Hunt
From 7.30-11.00 pm we have an evening of Cajun and Folk Music including performances from:
- Jo May
- Against the Grain
- Rory Mcleod
- The Boat Band
Fully licensed bar
7.00pm onwards Tom Jones tribute act at Dawley Social Club
8.30 pm onwards Live Music from Middle Space at the Elephant & Castle
Sunday 9 April
3.00pm Family Film Show – join us for the sing-along version of Bugsy Malone
Popcorn and refreshments available
For further information www.facebook.com/dawleytowncouncil


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ADHD & Parenting: 4 Mindfulness Techniques to Curb Stress
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) doesn't just affect the individual. It affects the entire family, according to Mark Bertin, MD, a board-certified developmental behavioral pediatrician and author of The Family ADHD Solution.
Parents of kids with ADHD not only have to navigate a complex neurological disorder, but they also have to contend with criticism and judgment from others, he said.
For instance, parents might be told that ADHD doesn't exist or that their child's disorder is their fault. Or they're criticized for putting their kids on medication.
Not surprisingly, studies show that parents of kids with ADHD are at greater risk for anxiety, depression, relationship problems and divorce, among other issues, Dr. Bertin said.
That's why focusing on ADHD's effect on parents is critical. Without it, "we aren't addressing ADHD fully," he said.
In fact, parents practicing self-care is a critical part of managing the disorder, he said. Just consider what happens when stress takes its heavy toll.
"When overly stressed we're more reactive, more likely to fall back on habitual patterns of behavior, and don't communicate as skillfully as we might with our children," Bertin said. It also makes it harder for parents to follow behavioral plans for treating ADHD, he added.
That's precisely where mindfulness comes in. Mindfulness "minimizes stress so we can parent at our best," Bertin said. It's defined as the ability to pay attention to your experience with openness and without reactive judgments. When parents practice mindfulness, they not only reduce their stress, but they're able to make better decisions and respond to their child's behavior rather than reacting to it.
Mindfulness helps parents emerge from autopilot and end ineffective habits, Bertin said. For instance, instead of getting frustrated and yelling at your child during a homework session – like you might usually do — you're able to pause and observe your feelings, and act in a calmer, and perhaps more effective way.
The benefits of mindfulness for mental health have been well-documented. For instance, one study found that after just 20 minutes a day of meditation practice for five days, students' attention improved and they experienced less anxiety, anger, depression and fatigue.
Dr. Sara Lazar of Harvard University even found physical changes in the brain. One study revealed beneficial cortical thickening in people who were long-term meditators. Another study showed an increase in size in the parts of the brain related to emotional regulation after only eight weeks of mindfulness practice.
Fortunately, incorporating mindfulness into your life isn't complicated or time-consuming. Bertin suggested these techniques for practicing mindfulness every day.
1. Give activities your full attention. The key to mindfulness is to focus your attention on what you're doing. For instance, if you're playing with your kids, rather than multitasking and texting, talking on the phone or thinking of your to-do list, focus fully on the kids.
2. STOP. "STOP" is a mindful way to remind yourself to pause and proceed with intention – no matter what you're doing.
As Bertin writes in The Family ADHD Solution, "In any situation, you can practice this: Listen first, breathe, and then respond. Pausing, you take a different path. You choose how to carry yourself and how to best move forward. What could you do differently? What could you show your child? If you could picture yourself in your wisest moment, what would you say or do?"
- Stop what you're doing.
- Take a few deep breaths.
- Observe what's happening. Bertin writes, "What are you feeling right now, in your body and emotionally, and where are your thoughts?"
- Proceed or pick what you're going to do next.
3. Incorporate mindfulness into your routine. For instance, before starting any meal, take 15 breaths while doing your best to focus on the sensation of breathing, Bertin said. Or take 15 breaths every morning and night before bed. Or instead, "schedule 10 or 15 minutes during the day to allow yourself to settle by bringing your attention as best you can to breathing."
This doesn't mean that you try to stop your brain from thinking, since that's impossible, Bertin said. "But we can patiently cultivate our ability to focus our attention, guiding ourselves back to our immediate experience," he said.
4. Explore reputable resources to get started. If you're new to mindfulness or meditation, Bertin suggested checking out these resources. Some even offer free meditation podcasts.
- Center of Mindfulness at the University of Massachusetts Medical School
- Mindful.org
- UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center
Again, "Parents caring for themselves…is a vital part of managing ADHD," Bertin said. And mindfulness is a valuable way to do just that.
This article features affiliate links to Amazon.com, where a small commission is paid to Psych Central if a book is purchased. Thank you for your support of Psych Central!
Tartakovsky, M. (2018). ADHD & Parenting: 4 Mindfulness Techniques to Curb Stress. Psych Central. Retrieved on October 27, 2020, from https://psychcentral.com/blog/adhd-parenting-4-mindfulness-techniques-to-curb-stress/
Last reviewed: By a member of our scientific advisory board on 8 Jul 2018
Published on Psych Central.com. All rights reserved.


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The Advantages of Going From a Sole Proprietorship to a Limited Partnership
As a business, a sole proprietorship is easy to create and maintain. However, in a sole proprietorship, the business owner is solely responsible for all decisions and business liabilities. Two forms of partner exist in a limited partnership. A general partner is similar to a partner in an ordinary partnership. A limited partner is one that is not financially liable for the debts of the business beyond the risk of losing initial investment. A limited partnership must have at least one general partner who remains personally liable.
Using the limited partnership format allows a business owner to gain additional funding from the new partners without the credit risk or interest expense of taking out a loan. The limited partnership may make it considerably easier to attract new partners as they can put money into the business without having unlimited risk if the business falls into financial difficulties.
As well as gaining financing from a new partner, a business owner can benefit from the partner's professional knowledge and contacts. This is particularly useful when the new partner would not be willing to share this information unless she was able to share in the benefits that it brought to the company. For example, if the person was highly regarded in the industry, it is unlikely she would be willing to work for a sole proprietor business as an employee for a salary that the sole proprietor could afford.
Until 2001, limited partners could not play an active role in the running of the company, meaning they were effectively silent partners. The 2001 Uniform Limited Partnership Act removed this restriction. This means the limited partner can help manage the company in addition to providing information and skills. This can be particularly useful if a sole proprietor is an expert in his product or service but lacks experience in running and increasing a business.
Single Project
The limited partnership arrangement is often suitable for cases where the new partner only wishes to be involved with the sole proprietor on a single project. This could include construction projects or movies. The format allows those with money to invest in a project without exposing themselves to excessive risk.
Photo Credits
- George Doyle/Stockbyte/Getty Images


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Today is September 28, and I am in Sanur, at about 80 km from the Gunung Agung, the volcano which has been about to erupt for a couple of days now. It is strange to receive all kinds of news from the Netherlands about this, while here on Bali we do not know exactly what is going on. The magma is at 1000 meters under the top right now, and the inhabitants within 12 km of the volcano have been evacuated. The alarm phase has been installed for days already. Up to now nothing has happened, but an eruption is still expected. Terrible situation for the population of the villages which are in the danger zone. But support has been arranged, and nature will have its way.
And now the update of my trip to Bali this year. For different reasons, some sponsors decided to stop their contribution, so that we now have 8 children without a sponsor. The Foundation continues to pay for them, but we will of course do our utmost to find new sponsors for them.
On August 17, I arrived on Bali for the yearly visit to the children, parents and schools. First I went to Ubud, where we have 4 children sponsored. The next stop was Pancasari. On the first school, SD1, the coordinating teacher Iluh, had arranged everything perfectly, as usual. Every time it is so great to meet all the children and their parents. After SD1, we went to SD3, where a lot of parents were already present as well. Unfortunately the teacher who is our contact there, had not understood the procedure correctly. The forms we had given some time ago, and which he should have handed over to the children before our visit, were still in his possession. So we needed to come back later, in order to receive forms with the drawings of the children and then hand over the sponsor money.
Last but not least we visited the students of junior and senior high school. Here we came with a special mission this year: handing over laptops to some of the students. Our contact person in Pancasari, Gita, had bought 10 laptops upon our request. We could buy them, thanks to a generous gift of a Dutch foundation. The laptops will be given to the students on loan. Once they leave school, they have to return them, so that other students can also profit. In Pancasari we made three young ladies very happy with this unexpected gift. At the end of the day, we continued the drive to Kalibukbuk, Lovina, to meet the many children we support in this region. In the next days I visited SD1, 2 and 4 in Kalibukbuk, SD1 in Anturan, the junior and senior students of Kalibukbuk, and also a number of small schools in mountain villages. The 7 remaining laptops found new happy owners as well. I was really touched by how grateful they were. Thanks so much to the sponsor who made this possible, but who wants to remain anonymous.
Parents and children are really grateful for the support. And if you have received a letter and drawing, thanking the Foundation, remember that this is not about the Foundation, but about you as the sponsor, receiving thanks. Your support makes it possible for them to continue their schooling.
The next and last visit was to Padangbay, to meet another 11 children. Everyone was happy to see me and receive the yearly support. This comes from sponsors in different countries, since we have sponsors not only in the Netherlands, but from other European countries and the USA and Australia as well.
During my trip I spent a few days with Alita, Sigrid and Arthur, all three of them sponsors of our Foundation. It was really nice to make several trips with them on this beautiful island. I really appreciated their company.
During my first week on Bali, I slipped while walking and injured my right leg. I could hardly stand and walk, and was brought to my hotel with friends on a motor. Now, almost 5 weeks later, the leg is still swollen and I had to take it easy. Fortunately I can walk painlessly again. Saturday I am leaving for the Netherlands, landing on Sunday, where Hetty will pick my up again. Will be great to see each other again after 6 weeks.
On behalf of all volunteers on Bali, and the Boar of the foundation, I thank you for your support, mails, and apps that I receive during my trip.
Salaam, Tjeerd van Dijk


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DHX User Authentication Module 1.0: Read Me
Requirements for Running the DHX UAM 1.0
Installing the DHX UAM 1.0
Using the DHX UAM 1.0 Algorithms used
Known Incompatibilities and Limitations
The DHX (Diffie-Hellman Exchange) UAM provides a relativly secure way to transport cleartext passwords of up to 64 characters to the server for further processing.
Requirements for Running the DHX UAM 1.0
AppleShare Client: 3.8.1 or later
Installing the DHX UAM 1.0
The UAM should be placed in a folder titled "AppleShare Folder" within the extensions folder on the current System Folder. No reboot is needed, though you must close the Chooser & Network Browser and reopen them before the new UAM will be noticed.
Using the DHX UAM 1.0 If the server you are connecting to, supports the DHX UAM, the AppleShare Client will put up a dialog allwing you to choose "Encrypted Password" as a login mechanism. Select this UAM and fill in your password and username just as you would for the standard AppleShare login dialog.
Algorithms Used
password is padded with nulls to 64 bytes
username is a pstring, padded to even byte length (odd number of chars)
ServerSig is obtained from the AFPSrvrInfo reply from the server.
first message from client to server:
| login (2 bytes) | AFP Vers | UAMName "DHCAST128" | Username (padded) | Ma (16 bytes) |
reply (server to client)
| ID (2 bytes) | Mb (16 bytes) | (16 byte nonce, ServerSig)K |
login continue (client to server)
| logincontinue (2 bytes) | ID (2 bytes) | (16 byte nonce + 1, password)K |
reply (server to client)
pass / fail
(data)K = Encrypt data using CAST 128 CBC with key = K
The Key is generated with a Diffie-Hellman key exchange as follows:
Ma - first message = g^Ra mod p (sent by the Client to the Server)
Mb - second message = g^Rb mod p (sent by the Server to the Client)
K - Key = Mb^Ra mod p = Ma^Rb mod p
We are using CAST 128, (the implementation from SSLeay) in CBC mode with the IV in the second message being the bytestring "CJalbert" and the IV in the third message being the bytestring "LWallace".
Known Incompatibilities and Limitations
- There seems to be a problem between Norton Antivirus and the DHX UAM. The client Mac will crash with an illegal instruction when the user types into the username or password fields. Workaround is to turn off Norton Antivirus.
- For debugging purposes, there is a debug break before each Alert put up by the UAM, just type g and return in MacsBug. If an alert does not come up, please report it as a bug.


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Kelsey Burritt | Staff Writer
Conductor Grant Cooper pretended to walk an invisible tightrope in the middle of Bestor Plaza, demonstrating a metaphor for the concentration required of conductor, orchestra and dancers alike in realizing a ballet. Now imagine walking that same tightrope strung 100 feet above Niagara Falls, he said.
"There can't be any possibility of someone thinking about something else," Cooper said, "because it could be potentially fatal."
Cooper will lead the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra and the North Carolina Dance Theatre in residence at 8:15 p.m. tonight in the Amphitheater. It marks Cooper's fifth time conducting ballet at Chautauqua, although he has been conducting at the Institution for more than 20 years.
"There's an incredible sense of creativity working with the dance company," Cooper said. "It's inspiring, actually, because they are so in the moment, for this moment."
The joy and challenge of conducting ballet stems from its momentous nature for Cooper. It's an art form that can never be re-created, but to create it in the first place requires intense precision and clarity.
"Musicians have musical aural cues that they can use," Cooper said. "A ballet company doesn't give you that. You can hear maybe the tapping of feet behind you, but that doesn't necessarily mean anything anyway."
Without those aural cues, the ensemble loses a powerful tool in music making, which makes the conductor's role even more vital.
"You go to the very essence of the craft of conducting," Cooper said. "You have to have gestures that don't express you and what you're feeling at the moment, but rather communicate particularly in terms of tempo and pacing the interpretation that the ballet has been using to prepare."
Ballets, though, are predetermined spectacles. When a CD is turned on in a rehearsal space, music happens, Cooper said. In concert, the music is an organic, living thing.
"I can and do respond to the dances, and they respond to me," Cooper said. "Especially beginnings and endings, I find, are much more satisfying when there is that live collaboration."
The music is only one of numerous aspects that must harmonize in a ballet production. Lighting, costuming and choreography also contribute to the narrative, flow and structure of a performance.
"I think that's the challenge of whether it's ballet, or symphonies, opera, or anything, is finding coherence," Cooper said.
Cooper said conducting ballet differs from conducting symphony because ballet has an inherent structural narrative. A symphony must be shaped with pacing and sets of arrival points and release points, Cooper said.
"What you have to do in a ballet instead is capture — as perfectly as possible — moments," Cooper said, "and present them almost like little self-contained gems."
Tonight's program will feature four of those gems, a variety such as classic ballet and Gershwin.
The concert opens with excerpts from Tchaikovsky's "Sleeping Beauty," a traditional ballet but slightly recast, Cooper said.
Next on the program is a Handel aria "Lascia la spina, cogli la rosa" from Il Trionfo del Tempo e del Disinganno, followed by Lalo's "Danses Brillante" from Namouna.
"This Handel aria is perhaps one of the least likely pieces you would think of as ballet at all," Cooper said, "and yet it has yielded to Sasha (Janes') imagination. It's really wonderful."
Gershwin's American in Paris, which closes the concert, was not written as a ballet at all, yet Cooper also insists that it yields to its own narrative.
"You can really tell there is a story being told on stage," Cooper said.
"The idea of this program is it's like a buffet, a smorgasbord," he said. "As chefs, you would have said to us: 'You're the chef, you know your cooking. Cook something good for us.' "


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News of a pedestrian accident seems to on the upswing in Tampa Bay this week. What better day to highlight the importance of shared responsibility to walkers and drivers than today's International Walk to School Day.
Florida is ranked as the deadliest state for pedestrians and cyclists. Tampa Bay ranks as the second deadliest community for pedestrians and cyclists in the state. Just this week, the following pedestrian accidents were reported:
• On Tuesday, 17-year-old Alexis Miranda was struck and killed by a car while attempting to cross Busch Boulevard near Chamberlain High in Tampa.
• Also on Tuesday at 12:30 p.m Florida Highway Patrol says 54-year-old Irene Figueroa was hit by a car at Hillsborough Avenue in Town 'N' Country.
• Later that day, around 9 p.m., Tampa police responded to another pedestrian accident where a person was hit by a vehicle at Nebraska Avenue and Busch Boulevard.
• On Monday, around 10 p.m. Nicholas Southerland of Riverview died when a newer white pickup hit him while he was walking east across Orient Road just south of Waycross Avenue.
• A 47-year-old woman was killed early Wednesday in a pedestrian accident while trying to cross a St. Pete Beach street. According to Bay News 9, Michelle Marie Denney of St. Pete Beach was struck by a vehicle on Blind Pass Road and 78th Avenue just after midnight.
International Walk to School Day is part of an effort to make children and adults aware of safety measures they should take during walks near busy roads and intersections. The now global event that involves communities from more than 40 countries walking and biking to school on the same day. It began in 1997 as a one-day event. Over time, this event has become part of a movement for year-round safe routes to schools.
Officials with the Florida Department of Transportation say getting people to use crosswalks and practice safe habits is a big challenge. The best way to improve safety is to teach children good habits while they're young and International Walk to School Day plays a big part in that. Here are a few tips for both walker and drivers to prevent pedestrian accidents provided by the NHTSA:
What Walkers Can Do To Prevent A Pedestrian Accident
• Be predictable. Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
• Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.
• If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
• Keep alert at all times; don't be distracted by electronic devices that take your eyes (and ears) off the road.
• Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections whenever possible. This is where drivers expect pedestrians.
• Look for cars in all directions – including those turning left or right.
• If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows you enough time to cross safely, and continue to watch for traffic as you cross.
• Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach you to make sure you are seen.
• Be visible at all times. Wear bright clothing during the day, and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.
• Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways, or backing up in parking lots.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and judgment too.
What Drivers Can Do To Prevent A Pedestrian Accident
• Look out for pedestrians everywhere, at all times. Safety is a shared responsibility.
• Use extra caution when driving in hard-to-see conditions, such as nighttime or in bad weather.
• Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or otherwise entering a crosswalk.
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and stop well back from the crosswalk to give other vehicles an opportunity to see the crossing pedestrians so they can stop too.
• Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. There may be people crossing that you can't see.
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
• Follow the speed limit, especially around people on the street.
• Follow slower speed limits in school zones and in neighborhoods where there are children present.
• Be extra cautious when backing up – pedestrians can move into your path.
Today and every day, all drivers and walkers need to accept the shared responsibility of preventing a pedestrian accident. Walk and drive safely and watch out for those who don't!
Personal Injury Attorney Matthew Noyes represents those injured in car accidents, motorcycle crashes, bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents and other types of personal injury matters. He is a named partner at the Tampa Bay law firm of Perenich Caulfield Avril Noyes – one of the oldest personal injury law firms in Pinellas County. Call Attorney Matthew Noyes now at 727-796-8282 or complete the form on this page or simply click here to schedule a free case consultation.


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Tagged: saga
Saga – I actually played!
Almost two years ago, I bought a 4-point metal starter box of Vikings from Gripping Beast, with the expectation I would never actually play (I just liked the idea of painting some viking miniatures). When second edition released, I decided to get the actual books, and convinced a friend to at least snag the base rulebook, but while that has generated vague interest, it hasn't turned into actual models or games yet. I did field some of my Vikings as Ostlanders during the last local Mordheim campaign, but that and Frostgrave were starting to look like the extent of their usefulness around here, until I recently showed my Vikings to my friend Dave and got some real results (maybe the fact that I've recently made a real effort to get them all painted had an effect on their usefulness in this regard). He took advantage of the Gripping Beast black Friday sale and bought himself some Normans. He assembled them over the holidays, and last night we played an actual game of Saga…
We laid lots of terrain down, then rolled Method B for deployment and ended up touching almost none of it, haha. Clash of Warlords for our first game.
My Hirdmen watch as my Warlord and a unit of Bondi advance through the woods, leaving them behind.
Being new to this whole thing, I leave a unit of Bondi hiding in rocky ground while my Berserkers run around it in the open. The Berserkers will be largely cut down by ranged fire during Dave's first turn; only one will be left standing.
My Bondi attempt to cut down some Norman Crossbowmen, but Dave's dice are on fire…
… son of a dingleberry! (I rolled 13 hits, and Dave defended against almost all of them).
My last Berserker decides to make himself useful and charges a unit of mounted Norman Hearthguard. Valhalla gets him some extra dice…
… and he takes them out! He's also gone as a result of Valhalla, but this is probably the first interaction to go even remotely my way, and marks a bit of a turning point in our battle.
Having finally dragged themselves out of the rocky ground (and having been whittled down by more ranged fire), my Bondi manage to take out some more Norman Warriors, but not enough. A few still remain standing.
My Warlord has defeated his Norman counterpart, but so has 3 Crossbowmen and a largely untouched unit of Levies to deal with.
Crossbows down, Levy Archers to go…
While he doesn't take them all out, my Warlord does take out enough Levy to negate Dave's final Saga die, ending the game.
We quite likely played more than 6 turns, as we sorta glossed over that part and just played until one of us ran out of Saga dice. Lots of fun, though, and both of us are very much looking forward to playing again (and we're going to get some more miniatures so we can start thinking about 6 points in the not too distant future).
Thoughts after our first game?
Normans are probably going to be a tough fight for me. I did okay once I'd closed for combat, but the Norman ranged options did some real damage (especially to my poor Berserkers!) and the mounted Hearthguard twisted some of my deployment choices back on me. Their maneuverability really limited my ability to choose my battles via deployment.
Berserkers need some real help getting across the battlefield. I'll need to make better use of terrain and other units to get them safely into combat.
Our game took a few hours, but that included *lots* of rules searches and clarifications, plus we basically played to annihilation. Games should be pretty quick once we get a better handle on the game.
I'll probably read through the rules again now that I have a game under my belt. It's well laid out from a reading perspective, but trying to find specific rules while playing was pretty rough (reminded me a little bit of Infinity's second edition, but not as brutal since the book is a lot shorter). There are definitely a couple of things I'd just like to confirm we did correctly where movement and fatigue are concerned.
TLDR: We really like Saga.
Saga: I painted an army!
Yes, with the second Bondi unit that I posted a couple weeks ago, I finished painting a full army. Not something I can say very often. Let's take another look at those final 8 warriors:
What follows is pretty much going to be a bunch of photos, because I'm feeling pretty good about these guys. Sharing time!
I feel like this guy's got some tricky moves… Watch the feet!
And there we go. Thanks for checking them out. I am in fact working on those Gall Gaedhil I mentioned last time, but I interrupted that painting task with some shieldmaiden assembly.
So lots more Saga still coming. I picked up Njal, too. Also, Dave's Normans arrived, so once he's got them assembled and on bases, I'm actually going to get to play!
Saga – Viking Bondi unit 2
Tonight I put the finishing touches on my last 8 Viking Bondi (warriors). That's right, I am now the proud owner of a fully painted 4 points of Saga. I'll have to get a group photo at some point.
When we left off, I'd put in a couple evenings of paint, and the Bondi were looking like this:
Day 4: more paint, plus some dirt on the ground!
Day 5: finished up any still unpainted spots, but mostly a bunch of shades and washes. I don't think I snapped a picture of that.
Day 6: some detail work (including shieldwork), and some light drybrushing to give the hair, fur, and dirt some depth.
They're starting to really look like something at this point.
Although they can't look at anything themselves. No eyes just yet.
Day 7: Day the last! Eyes and blood! Here's a few of them before and after the finishing touches:
And one final group shot:
Up next: the Gal Gaedhil (Sons of Death)?
Saga – Viking Bondi unit 2 WIP I
K, this is it! I'm only 8 miniatures away from having a fully painted 4 point Saga warband, so I'm painting all 8 at the same time.
Day 1: Prime the last few that were still bare metal…
Day 2: Some blues, some greens, some browns. Moving right along…
Day 3: A few different skin tones and wood colours, and most of the clothing complete.
Until next time!
Saga – Vikings!
The painting bug finally caught hold of me again, and the result is a whole mess of Vikings. Previous to the last week or so, I had slowly worked my way through two Berserkers, a Hearthguard, a Warrior, and my Warlord. 5 models. I have now more than tripled that, and I have also convinced a friend of mine to take advantage of Gripping Beast's black Friday sale, so I'm actually going to get to *field* these ruffians (and not as Ostlanders).
Viking Paintfest, Round 1:
I started with these three Bondi (warriors), as they were 'based' and primed and ready to go. Realized pretty much immediately that if I was going to work on multiple minis at the same time, I should do more than 3. So I finished that first night by grabbing a few more that I'd already gritted the bases on and priming them.
This brought the count to 5 Bondi and Gunnar Hamundarson. I don't have Njal yet, so he was probably a silly choice to paint at the moment, but it's just such a great model.
I used a lot of different colours on this lot (and so many browns!), but I like the feel of it. Uniform in their lack of uniformity, if you will.
And there's that batch finished, and bloodied up. I think I mixed about 7 shades of red for this group; I reduced that to about 3 for the next lot.
Next lot! 7 miniatures this time: 2 Berserkers, 3 Hirdmen (hearthguard), and 2 Bondi.
I went with this combination because it would finish off a bunch of units that I'd started over the past year (usually one at a time for local painting contests).
I picked up some GW Nuln oil to wash the armour (is it weird that I've never bought any previously?) and decided to try a few more interesting shield designs.
Mixed results. I'm not exactly a freehand genius, but I'm happy enough with the results. Once I've bloodied these fellows up a little it should soften the aspects I feel look weird.
It takes a pretty serious effort on my part not to overdo it with the blood. Maybe I do anyway, but it strikes me as pretty unlikely that vikings wading through a battlefield *wouldn't* be visibly bloodied, so here we are. Weapons and hands seem like obvious candidates, and I picture shields just being another weapon; either via a classic bash, or using the edge (with shields this big, though, maybe that's unrealistic? I have no personal experience with dark ages combat, haha). That's enough overthinking for now…
So, the result of this latest painting binge? I have now painted:
Gunnar Hamundarson and my Warlord.
One point of Berserkers.
1 point of Hirdmen.
1 point of Bondi.
Next up? Another point of Bondi and maybe Njal or a mercenary unit, depending what finds its way onto my desk.
SAGA – Viking Hirdman
February brought me my new Saga books along with some viking dice, wire spears, and a couple of new units. The wire spears meant I finally finished assembling all of my previous units (I'd been holding out, avoiding those soft metal spears they came with).
All of this also got me jazzed to paint something for the local shop's historical miniature painting contest, so I picked out a hearthguard that was already prepped and primed and got cracking.
You'll notice I'm also using my citadel painting handle for the first time. I picked it up a little while ago, but I've only painted cars for gaslands since then so this was my first real opportunity to try it out; colour me impressed. Even using the non – beveled Renedra base, it kept a good grip throughout the project.
Flat Earth for the ground, Red Leather for the helmet, Golden Yellow for the hair/beard, and a Game Colour orange for the tunic. It was a very bright orange (I think I've previously just used it for Escher gangers), and I had doubts right up until the final clear coat.
The pants are a Heavy Opaque Blue (I love the coverage the heavy Game Colours provide) and mostly Gory Red on the shield.
Oily steel for the metals, and I mixed some of my Red Ochre pigment into my gore to get it a bit chunkier and I liked the results; I'll definitely do that again.
And that's my first Viking Hirdman, all painted up and waiting for me to paint up some fitting compatriots.
SAGA – Building my Vikings
Spent a couple evenings just cleaning and assembling Vikings (plus a couple random Hasslefree minis).
Started just thinking I'd get a couple prepped for future Historical-themed painting contests, then got into the swing of it and did a bunch. Even then I was still planning to leave the spear wielders until later (I'm going to be ordering some wire spears as soon as Gripping Beast have their Viking dice back in stock), but just kept going.
'Twas a strange mood for me, but I figured I'd take advantage while I was feeling it.
I'll have to post the whole lot of them at some point, but this'll have to do for now…
SAGA – Viking Bondi
Short post. This is my first Bondi, all finished up. The clear coat is on there and he was entered into the miniature painting contest at ThunderCon. He didn't place, which was pretty disappointing as there weren't very many entries in his category and I thought third place was in reach. Maybe next year.
I'm hoping I get to see the detailed judging results on him, as I'd love to see how close it was. I'm not a big fan of highlighting, which often hurts my chances in competitions, but it would be nice to know what else I should be focusing on for next time.
Bonus? I'm now 12% of the way through painting my SAGA warband. Progress!
SAGA – Viking Bondi WIP
So, how's that fellow with the awkward arm turning out?
Not badly, methinks. There's a little more to be done in terms of touch ups, I still want to step his injury up a little further and see what I can do to 'clean up' some patchy spots in the grungy washes. All that said, though, I really feel like it's working. I'll post something final shortly!
SAGA – Viking Berserker 2
August was another historical miniatures painting contest. Turnout was unimpressive again (historical just doesn't draw the crowd that SciFi/Modern and Fantasy do), but it gives me a great push to slowly make progress on my Vikings. And make progress I did.
I decided to embrace the grungy effects that I ended up using on the previous one, and I think the intention helped.
Good practice for my next viking. He's not a Berserker, but one of his arms hangs a little funny.
I'm thinking I can make it look badly wounded; that way it will be hanging dead instead of awkwardly. I should be making some progress tonight, so we'll see how it goes.


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- Latest available (Revised)
- Original (As enacted)
This is the original version (as it was originally enacted). This item of legislation is currently only available in its original format.
(1)If on or after the appointed day an authorised officer or a constable has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a person has committed a relevant offence and the conditions of subsection (2) below apply, the authorised officer or constable may seize—
(a)any article being offered or exposed for sale or displayed; or
(b)any other article which—
(i)is in the possession of or under the control of any person who is offering or exposing for sale or displaying an article; and
(ii)which is of a similar nature to the article being offered or exposed for sale or displayed, as the case may be; or
(c)any receptacle or equipment being used by that person.
(2)The conditions are that the article, receptacle or equipment—
(a)may be required to be used in evidence in any proceedings in respect of the suspected offence; or
(b)may be the subject of forfeiture under section 7 (Forfeiture of seized items) of this Act; and
(c)in the case of an article is not of a perishable nature.
(3)An authorised officer shall produce his authority if required to do so by the person having care or control of anything seized in pursuance of the powers in subsection (1) above.
(4)An authorised officer or a constable shall, forthwith after seizing any article, receptacle or equipment under subsection (1) above, give to the person from whom the article, receptacle or equipment was seized a certificate containing the following information—
(a)the name and address of the person who the authorised officer or constable suspects has committed the suspected offence;
(b)if different from the name and address of the person mentioned in paragraph (a) above, the name and address of the owner of the article, receptacle or equipment;
(c)the type of article, receptacle or equipment seized; and
(d)information about subsection (2) of section 7 (Forfeiture of seized items) of this Act.
(5)If an authorised officer or constable is unable, after reasonable inquiry of the person who he suspects has committed the suspected offence, to ascertain the name or address of—
(a)that person; or
(b)the owner of the article, receptacle or equipment,
or has reasonable cause to suspect that a name or address provided to him is incorrect, he need not comply with paragraph (a) or (b), as the case may be, of subsection (4) above.
(6)The authorised officer or constable shall, before the end of the period of 14 days beginning with the date of seizure, give or serve a copy of the certificate to or on any person who is named on the certificate under paragraph (b) of subsection (4) above at the address shown on the certificate.
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BSA101 Flameout Full Body Accent Graphic Decal Kit
These self adhesive vinyl graphic decal kits are made as an opposing pair for installation on both sides of your car. The kit includes the high quality vinyl decals, installation instructions, a plus a free installation tool. This kit can be installed by most people with patient and the ability to read instructions.
Select a Size: Use the drop down menu to select a size for your decal. There are three sizes listed for small, medium and large vehicles. If you need a specific size, select the closest size and enter the size needed in the comments box provided.
Select a Color:This decal kit is available in the colors shown in the drop down menu. In addition to the standard colors, you can choose a specialty color from the menu (These are extra cost options as shown). View Color Chart
Shadow/Outline or Secondary Color: In addition to the single color decal, you can choose to outline, shadow or make a certain portion of the decal a second color. The extra cost associated with each is shown. Please use the text box to explain what portion of the design should be made in the second color.
Select a Quantity: Choose a quantity of decal kits. Remember, that each kit comes with one pair of decals.
NOTICE: SOME TRIMMING IS REQUIRED AND INSTALLATION SHOULD BE DONE IN A CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENT. We can not be held responsible for installation error or misjudging the size kit needed for your application. All of our products are custom made to order, therefore there are NO RETURNS OR EXCHANGES on any orders. Measure your vehicle and choose the proper size and color combination for your application. Please read the REFUND/EXCHANGE policy before ordering.


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Chicken piccata salad with grape dressing
Serves 12 | prep 40 mins | total time
Chicken piccata salad with grape dressingSubscribe to Sainsbury's magazine
Serves 12 | prep 40 mins | total time
Nutritional information (per serving)
- 1kg salad or new potatoes
- 150g green seedless grapes
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 6 skinless chicken breast fillets
- 4 rounded tbsp French's classic yellow mustard (or Dijon)
- 75g plain flour
- a drizzle of olive oil, for frying
- 70g wild rocket
- 2 level tbsp tiny capers, drained
Step by step
Get ahead
Make the dressing and cut the chicken into pieces the day before; chill. Cook, peel and slice the potatoes a few hours ahead. Cook the chicken up to an hour ahead
- Put the potatoes in a pan of cold salted water, bring to the boil, then simmer for 10-12 minutes or until tender. Drain, allow to cool a little, then peel the skins from the potatoes (or you can leave them on if you prefer). Slice lengthways into three and return to the pan.
- For the dressing, put the grapes in a food processor and blitz for 1 minute on high to purée, then pass through a sieve set over a bowl to press out the juice. Discard the grape skins. Whisk the oil and lemon juice into the grape juice and season. Drizzle a little of the grape dressing over the potatoes and season lightly.
- Cut each chicken breast fillet lengthways into 5-6 wide strips. Put the mustard in a large shallow bowl, add the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with the flour and toss to coat.
Tip Piccata is traditionally made with veal but chicken is the top US choice.
- Pour in enough olive oil to just cover the base of a large nonstick frying pan. Set over a moderate heat, add a third of the chicken strips and fry for 6-7 minutes, turning once. When golden and cooked through, transfer to a tray lined with kitchen paper to drain. Repeat with the remaining two batches of chicken strips.
- On a platter, arrange the potatoes and chicken strips with the rocket and capers. Drizzle over the remaining grape dressing and serve.


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Try making these 16x16 canvas prints that are sure to add purrsonality to any interior.
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Congratulations are due to Gabriel Iordanescu, a senior at Skyview High School who has been nominated to represent Idaho as a delegate to the Congress of Future Medical Leaders in Massachusetts in June!
Gabriel was nominated by Dr. Robert Darling, the medical director of the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists. According to a press release we received, the nomination was based on Gabriel's "academic achievement, leadership potential and determination to serve humanity in the field of medicine."


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Holiday Inn Express & Suites Victoria - Colwood
City Center, 1.51 mi
318 Wale Road
Colwood, BC V9B2W3
Visit our groups and meetings page to find the perfect hotel for your upcoming meeting, event or group of 10 or more rooms. Ready to book 10 or more rooms now? Call 1-800-MEETING (Outside the US? Click here).


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Frank Del Rio
the eastern Med to Cuba, changing geopolitics are impacting the cruise
industry, oftentimes in unpredictable ways.
At the recent Cruise Shipping Miami conference for instance, it was illuminating that when asked what represents the biggest threat to cruising, NCLH CEO Frank Del Rio's response centered on geopolitics.
"I think the threat is the geopolitical environment that we operate in. We're global. Somewhere around the world something is always happening and we just cross our fingers that our ships aren't there when it happens."
Del Rio also noted there are many destinations that the industry would love to go to, but for the most part cannot due to strife.
"Look at the eastern Mediterranean," continued Del Rio. "Imagine an itinerary where you can go to Egypt and go to Libya and go to Tunisia, and go to Syria and go to Lebanon and go to Israel. You know the best Roman ruins of the world are not in downtown Rome. They are
in places like Syria, they are in places like Libya."
Del Rio's comments were prophetic. Less than two days after his observations were made in Miami, a terrorist attack in Tunisia killed 18 cruise passengers taking separate shore excursions to a museum in Tunis. The fact that Tunisia was out of the news cycle within three days lends further support to Del Rio's general point. After all, it was another international conflict, this time in Yemen, which knocked Tunis off the international news pages.
Little wonder that Del Rio even takes exception to the theory that land-based resorts represent cruising's biggest competitor: "It's events that you can't control, that's the biggest competitor that we have."


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Click the picture above, save & download
this freebie Valentine Card
Heart Shaped Cupcakes
I gleamed this idea from where else, but Pinterest.
You can find just about anything on there. I've
been just waiting for a chance to try it out. It said
you could use marbles or foil and since I didn't have
any marbles I opted for foil.
It seemed to work just fine rolling a small ball of foil
up to keep the liner indented to look like a heart.
I probably could have filled them a little fuller, but I
was afraid if they rose up too much they'd loose
their heart shape.
Here's the Pièce de résistance


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To use:
Saturate cotton ball or pad with remover; using gentle, downward strokes to remove makeup from upper lid and lashes. For best results for lower lashes, use a cotton swab. Shake well. Separation is natural.
Key ingredients
Organic fractionated coconut oil: full of medium chain triglycerides, fractionated coconut oil has a higher concentration of Capric acid and Caprilic acid, thus giving it more of antioxidant and disinfectant. Our selection is pure organic, derived only from coconut (no pam oil). Organic Rose Water: 100% pure rose water distillate. Tones, hydrates and softens the most delicate skin on your face.
We only use natural ingredients with an emphasis on organic and plant based. Every batch is made with love in the USA. Tips: Please shake well before use. Since it contains both water and oil, separation is natural.
Disclaimer: Due to the nature of this product, color may vary from batch to batch. 2 oz glass bottle
Ingredients: Organic Rose Water. Organic Witch Hazel. Organic Fractionated Coconut Oil. Lactobacillus Ferment.


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Among the many queer shops in San Francisco's Chinatown is that of a Japanese dealer in antiques—Takamoto Satsuma. Satsuma himself is a puzzle, but his place of business is, above all others, one of the strangest collections of the odd, the weird, and the unexpected that I have ever run across. Satsuma is brown and wrinkled—an epitome of his native land—of all that is mysterious, incomprehensible and exclusively Japanese, and his shop is likewise. There you may see all the gods of the East, deities of Buddhist and Shinto theology, squat images that look at you with the accumulated wisdom of long years and of a land and people essentially foreign. There, too, are swords and weapons of which I do not know the names, painted fans, lacquer work, Japanese armor, and a thousand and one other articles all resplendent of Japan.
Satsuma, who is invariably smiling and polite, as condescending if you leave without making a purchase as if you had bought twenty dollars worth, showed me about, exhibiting his treasures and extolling them in English which appeared peculiarly his own.
"You buy Matsuma sword?" he said, "I assure you most exceedingly ancient, and razor-blade keen. Matsuma mighty sword maker—forge devilblades." The dealer was about to enlarge on the diabolical qualities of Matsuma when I espied a Japanese gong, decorated with figures of gods, halfhuman, half-animal, which lay on a counter between a miniature Kurannon and the "getting up little god" Daruma. "How much?" I inquired. I was informed that the price was two dollars, which, considering
the age of the gong, made out by Matsuma to be three hundred years, was not exorbitant. The money being produced, I soon departed, much delighted with my purchase, and followed by many thanks from the dealer in antiques.
The gong was hung near my writing desk, and added, I thought, greatly to ornamentation of the room. I am by nature a collector of the odd, the picturesque, and particularly the Oriental, and my apartments show unmistakable traces of this predilection. Few have fairer Turkish rugs than mine or a more extensive collection of miscellaneous Oriental articles
I was seated at my desk several weeks later, engaged, if I recollect rightly, in an article [on] the Chinese Immigration Question. Anyway, it was of a practical every-day nature. Just as I had got well-started, I was suddenly interrupted by the sound of the gong striking. The sound, I may remark, was strangely deep and mellow, and different in tone from the ordinary gong. Five strokes followed each other in rapid succession, and when, much startled, I turned about, the instrument was still vibrating. My first thought was that some friend, wishing to play a joke, had stolen into the room and struck the gong. Great was my surprise to find myself absolutely alone. To my knowledge, no one was in the house. The sound having ceased, it was followed by unbroken silence. broken only by the beating of my heart
Much puzzled and perturbed, I examined the instrument closely, wondering if there was any internal arrangement mechanism which could have been responsible. This being without result, I looked about for some external agency, such as the proximity of some other articl My search was fruitless; I could find no agency which could have produced the sound.
The affair was so mysterious and perplexing that had it happened other than in broad daylight in the very heart of bustling, matter-of-fact San Francisco, I should surely have put it down to supernatural agency. But that was impossible. However, the more I thought of it, the greater more inexplicable the mystery grew. But everything has its solution. Determined to solve the mystery it, I went to Satsuma and told him the story. The dealer thereupon told a tale, which in plain English, runs thus:
Several centuries ago the feudal Lord Takamura Jiro ruled over a great portion of Kyoto. Jiro, had raised himself to that position beginning life as a common soldier under a former ruler, had, by a combination of circumstances, and his genuine abilities, raised himself to this high position, and displaced his displacing supplanting his master. Juster and more humane than his predecessor, whose cruelty had been instrumental in displacing dethroning him, he was beloved of his people, and ruled over them ruled in peace and prosperity.
Over another and larger portion of Kyoto, the Prince Umetsu Hakone held sway. Between Jiro and Hakone there had been smothered enmity originating many years before in the sheltering by Jiro of certain fugitives of justice from his neighbor. Though not resenting it at the time, Hakone had long nursed this grudge against Jiro, patiently awaiting the time when some excuse should arise for paying it off.
Seven years passed, and during these years the prosperity wealth prosperity abode in all Kyoto, the crops seasons being propitious and the crops abundant. Then, when least expected, there came a drouth, and after it a famine. Seven years had nature lavished her gifts over-generously, and now, as if in the balance of things, she withheld those gifts them.
The famine fell heaviest in that part ruled by Jiro, visiting but lightly the realm of Hakone. And Hakone, more far sighted than his neighbor, foreseeing perceiving that these this time must arrive, had stored up an abundance of food grain in preparation. During the famine he sold this to his people at an enormous profit, being both humanitarian and financier!
Seven years passed before his opportunity came. Jiro, then becoming engaged in a war with a neighboring prince, Hakone took advantage of the absence of his army to advance at the head of his troops into Jiro's territory. Jiro, having been wounded, was at that time abiding in his castle surrounded by a few soldiers, while his army was perhaps fifty miles away engaged in carrying on the war.
Hakone, advancing by forced marches found himself at nightfall near Jiro's castle. So swiftly and stealthily had he come that Jiro was not unaware of his presence in the neighborhood.
Knowing this, and also that the castle was practically ungarrisoned, Hakone, in the dead of night, attacked, carrying the outer gates and meeting with little resistance. Jiro's men, astonished and confused, were driven into the castle.
Jiro made preparations for a determined resistance. At first he thought that the prince whom he was fighting had stolen a march on him, but he soon became apprised aware that it was his old foe, Hakone.
With but twenty men he held the castle until dawn. Hakone's force, numbering many hundreds, strove vainly to effect an entrance. Each attack resulted in their retreating with great loss, only to advance once more. Jiro's soldiers, all samurai, fought with the courage of trapped rats, and when morning broke the men of Hakone advanced on an incline formed of dead bodies.
In spite of his wound, Jiro stood foremost to resist the enemy. He was a noble swordsman, and his blades, which rose and fell as regularly as triphammers, wrought terrific carnage.
But twenty men against many hundred could not hope for victory. At dawn but half that number remained to Jiro, and they were driven back, very slowly, into the castle. Every step, however, lost Hakone several lives.
In the great hall of the castle, Jiro, with two soldiers left, refused to retreat further. Here he would die gloriously, as befitted a samurai and the son of a samurai, and so, shouting the war-cry of his clan, he faced his enemies.
Close at hand was a gong. When Jiro fell, several minutes later, covered with wounds, and surrounded by a ring of dead, his sword struck it, and the sound, echoing strangely, seemed to those who heard it to toll the death of Jiro.
Hakone, having conquered his ancient enemy, now ruled over his realm. A year later, on the anniversary of Jiro's death, while standing near the spot where he fell, Hakone heard the gong strike five times though no agency was visible. And each year on that day, and at the hour when Jiro died, the phenomenon has occurred. Men say that it is the sword of Jiro striking the hour of his death.
Such was Satsuma's tale. Is it true, or is it a legend of old Japan, that land of many fictions and multitudinous folk-lore? But a year later, on the sam anniversary of that day, the gong was struck, tho no one stood near, and no agency was visible. It is very strange and most incomprehensible. Was it the sword of Jiro striking the hour of his death? Who knows? Who knows?
Editor's Note:
In this transcription, I have chosen to leave the crossed-out portions as an example of Clark's reworking of the story. The hills of Auburn, where Clark grew up, were filled with ghostly mining lore. As recently as my own childhood, I heard stories of ghost miners, and strange sounds around jumped claims, and so on. Who knows?
Printed from: www.eldritchdark.com/writings/short-stories/262
Printed on: October 29, 2020


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These Spacial Metal floor-standing enclosures and boxes offer both single door and double door enclosures with a range of sizes and easy to use accessories helping you find the most suitable fit and solution for your needs. These compact metal enclosures are made up of a compact body, welded rear panel and front part forming a rigid frame with its corners welded.
Four deep supports, 2 at the top and 2 at the bottom, for adjusting the equipment fixing bracket with a pitch of 25 mm
Sheet steel door, painted with epoxy-polyester resin in textured RAL7035 grey
Reinforcement frame made up of two perforated uprights with a pitch of 25mm and two-door rails (height-adjustable), which can be used for fixing cables
Standard locking system with handle and 5mm double bar insert
Supplied with galvanized mounting plate and 4 support brackets
Cable gland plate in 2 parts - IP55 according to IEC 60529 and IK10 according to IEC62262
Certifications: BV, DNV, UL, and cUL
Indoor industrial environment in mechanical plants to protect electric and electronic components against dust, splashing with oil and impacts.
Demanding industrial environments for food and beverage, pharmaceutical, petrochemical, and infrastructure industries for helping with hygiene and resistance to corrosion
Multi-purpose floor-standing enclosure
Dimensions: height 1800 mm, width 600 mm, depth 400 mm
Locking system with handle for door
4 x mounting plate bracket
1 x door
Reversible 120 º door opening
1 x cable entry
1 x mounting plate
|Number of Doors
|IP Rating
|Spacial SM
|Door Type
|Construction Type
|Body Material
|External Dimensions
|1800 x 600 x 400mm
|External Depth
|External Height
|1800 mm
|External Width
|750 mm


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Comedy Central went live tonight at 8 PM with their Election Night coverage. But within minutes Obama won re-election and Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert barely had time to deliver a punch line. The Daily Show's Democalypse 2012 started off with a plethora of journalistic cameos including ABC's George Stephanopoulos, CBS' Bob Schieffer, NBC's Tom Brokaw a hologram of Edward R. Murrow and "Anderson Cooper and his golden saxophone." Patrick Stewart did the intro voice-over. Stewart opened the show with a list of states and Senate races that have already been called. Mitt Romney, Stewart announced, has won "most of the Confederacy". NBC called Obama's victory at 8:12 PM but the Daily Show still continued with segments for several minutes. One segment threw Presidential politics forward to 2016 with a fake pundit panel projecting that Hilary Clinton had a 68% chance of victory over Jeb Bush. At 8:21 PM PT, Stewart finally said, "the Presidency is projected to stay in control of the Democratic Party. We are projecting Barack Obama is the President of the United States." The studio audience went crazy. "House of Representatives, Republican. Senate, Democrats. Presidency, Barack Obama. Two years, $3 billion dollars and we are clearly in the same fucking place we were when it started," Stewart quickly added. The swearing was blanked out by Comedy Central. In 2008, Stewart and Colbert announced Obama's win during that year's live Presidential race show.
Related: Obama Wins & Romney Concedes – Deadline Live Snarks TV News Coverage
Minutes later Stephen Colbert demanded that Stewart give him "no spoilers" about the election as Comedy Central's coverage shifted over to The Colbert Report at 8:30 PM. "Our top story tonight. It is my mother's birthday and the Colbert Report can now project that Lorna Colbert is 92 years old," said the fake conservative news host. About four minutes into the show, after being handed a napkin wet with "liberal tears," Colbert announced the outcome of the election. 'Ladies and gentleman, the Colbert Report is ready to project that CNN has projected that Animal Planet has predicted that the winner of the 2012 Presidential election is Barack Obama," he said. As they had on The Daily Show the studio crowd applauded strongly but staying in character, Colbert himself did not looked pleased. "I'm stunned I really thought Mitt would win," said the host. ""Well, fine America, it's your funeral," he added in mock outrage. "Let's face it, America's a quick drunk and an easy lay," said Colbert about Obama's win. "Apparently all you have to do is show up in a nice suit, give her free healthcare, save the auto industry and kill bin Laden and that old girl will put out …but will America respect herself in the morning? You could have gone with that nice Romney boy." The Colbert Report ended up with a brief interview with The Daily Beast's Andrew Sullivan. "I watched Fox today for sheer schadenfreude," Sullivan said.
Subscribe to Deadline Breaking News Alerts and keep your inbox happy.


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ZCubes to Launch Firefox Plugin
ZCubes, the browser-based platform enabling drag n' drop capabilities for web content to create ZSpaces, will be announcing their new ZTab Firefox plugin on Monday, April 30th.
The Firefox plugin is an important release for ZCubes because it enables all machines and platforms to be supported, including Mac, Linux, UNIX and nearly 15 other operating systems through the Firefox compatible version. ZCubes is now reported to work on 99.99% of the browser-enabled population. It's main feature is a browser within a browser functionality as well as online document and presentation creation. CuBee, another feature with this release, lets users send messages with videos, images, animations, picture marquees, vector images, handwritten notes, etc. with one click.
ZCubes was among the companies that demoed at Web Expo earlier this month. Their service enables you to create your own space, including videos, widgets and embedded browser windows, as well as annotate and write "directly" on websites. This could function as a personal start page, a bookmarking tool, and many other uses. Others in this space include Zude, which also demoed at Expo.


text: Our guest today is Louis Gerken, President of Gerken Capital Associates. The world of venture capital can be difficult for many investors to understand since it is often hidden from public view. In this interview, Louis Gerken, founder and president of the alternative asset fund Gerken Capital Associates, explains how the venture capital world works and how you can invest in its successfully. In his new book The Little Book of Venture Capital Investing, Gerken explains the role of venture capital in funding promising young companies, and helps investors figure out how to earn significant retu


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The English We Speak is a weekly podcast from BBC Learning English which looks at a different everyday English phrase or piece of slang in a fun three-minute programme. You can subscribe to the podcast here.
Podcasts are a great way to improve your listening and vocabulary skills. I'm always encouraging my students to use them. You can find a list of English learning podcasts in the sidebar on the left.


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Free Delivery
to UK Mainland
Mon - Fri 9am - 5.30pm & Sat 4.30pm
Availability: In Stock*
PDI: This machine will be supplied fully PDI'd as per the manufacturers specifications. See more...
Delivery: Free delivery to the UK mainland (Except Scottish Highlands and islands). See more...
Power: 2-Stroke Petrol
The HCR-165ES twin blade hedge cutter implements low vibration technology and a rotational handle for manoeuvrability and comfort. It features a 21.2cc engine and Easy Start for almost effortless starting
21.2cc Premium Grade Echo® Engine - Ensures superior performance, durability and reliability
Easy Start - Spring assisted starting system for quick, almost effortless starting. Just one or two gentle pulls of the recoil will start the engine. A warm engine will usually start with one half pull of the recoil rope
Low Emissions - Stage 2 compliant low emission engine means reduced exhaust emissions
Double Reciprocating Blades - Laser cut, precision ground, double reciprocating blades for long lasting sharpness and a cleaner cut. 35mm blade pitch means a variety of different hedges can be tackled
Front Exhaust Pipe - Superior exhaust system means exhaust emissions are directed away from user. This also prevents scorching and discolouration of the hedge
Vertical Fuel Filler Neck - Enables easier re-fuelling
Anti-Vibration System - For comfortable operation and use over extended periods
Half-Length Blade Guard - Protects user from accidental contact with blades
Tool-free Access to Air Filter - Easy access to air filter, even when wearing gloves
Warranty - ECHO power tools come with a five year domestic warranty or a two year warranty in professional use (registration of ECHO products and servicing are necessary to validate the warranty)
Model HCR-165ES
Engine Displacement 21.2cc
Dry Weight 5.1kg
Output 0.57kW
Effiective Cutter Length 25" (63cm)
Fuel Tank Capacity 0.37L
Blade Layout Double
Warranty 5 Year Domestic & 2 Year Professional
2 Stroke Oils:
For options of 2-stoke oils click here...
Resin Solvent:
For options of resin solvents click here...
Gear Box Grease:
For options of greases click here...
Free Delivery
to UK Mainland
Spares Department
In 1969
By SagePay
* Whist we try to keep our stock availability correct it is not always possible, if in doubt please call to check prior to placing your order.


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The National Stormwater Testing and Evaluation for Products and Practices (STEPP) Initiative seeks to improve water quality by accelerating the implementation and adoption of innovative stormwater management technologies by removing current barriers to innovation, creating regulatory confidence, minimizing duplicative performance evaluation efforts, and establishing a common framework for testing and evaluating both public domain and proprietary stormwater control measures.
As stormwater-related pollution has grown, regulatory programs have been established at the state and federal level to address the effects of stormwater runoff. Various stormwater control measures (SCMs) — proprietary products and public domain practices— have been developed and have evolved to address stormwater runoff. As the diversity and complexity of SCMs has grown, the need to develop a process to test, categorize, review, certify, evaluate, verify, and/or approve stormwater runoff controls became evident. This process ensures that the efficacy of products and practices meets expectations, which often are tied to permit requirements. Some programs to test and evaluate SCMs arose at the state, regional, and national levels, but these have had mixed results.
The STEPP Initiative was triggered, in part, by the end of the only national evaluation program for stormwater technologies, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) program. STEPP developed from a 2012 meeting of interested parties from product manufacturing, consulting, and regulatory sectors. WEF volunteered to investigate the need for a national testing and evaluation program for stormwater products and practices, and formed the STEPP Workgroup. A white paper (2014, WEF) was released that summarized the findings of that effort. The report noted that a national SCM testing and evaluation program would be beneficial to multiple stakeholders (regulators, municipalities, technology providers, consumers, and so on). The result of this 2014 investigation was that agreement exists on the feasibility and the need for a national testing and evaluation program.
With support from EPA to move beyond the investigatory phase, a STEPP Advisory Committee was assembled in 2015. This second phase sought to develop a report to recommend the scale, scope, architecture, funding, and leadership for a national program. The Advisory Committee used five stormwater and non-stormwater technology evaluation programs as models for the potential design components to be considered for the National STEPP Program. Additionally, two informal surveys of states and MS4 permitees assessed their needs and how they might use a national program.
A feasibility report was released in 2016 that laid out potential framework and policy options for the STEPP program (WE&RF, 2016). Findings from this document include:
- Enhance and further implement recruitment strategies through partnerships with stakeholder groups. These include individual states, MS4 permittees, EPA, academic researchers, the development community, non-governmental organizations, and others.
- Promote the adoption of a flexible "cafeteria plan" approach for a national program that is envisioned to evolve continually over time. A cafeteria plan option allows both technology proponents and regulatory entities to have flexibility in designing a SCM study and determining how to meet specific state and local regulatory requirements.
Individual program features explored include the mission and objectives, program services, organizational relationships, operational structure, governance, funding, stakeholder engagement and transparency, testing purpose and scope, testing setting, and reciprocity. A few of these program aspects are briefly explained in the STEPP Fact Sheet.
Next Steps
The STEPP program continues to evolve. In the summer of 2017, WEF hosted a meeting to consider the potential of a multi-organizational partnership to work together by leveraging the respective strengths of each organization to further the goals of the STEPP concept. (June 2017 Meeting Synthesis) The result is the STEPP Consortium Group, which is led by WEF and includes:
- American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM International)
- Interstate Technology and Regulatory Council (ITRC)
- The Water Research Foundation
- Washington State Department of Ecology, University of Washington – Washington Stormwater Center, Technology Assessment Protocol – Ecology (TAPE)
- New Jersey Corporation for Advanced Technology (NJCAT) / NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP)
In July 2018, WEF hosted a meeting that brought these organizations together, along with the WEF Stormwater Institute STEPP Work Team, to refine the roles each organization could play in the STEPP program, consider more detailed policies, and identify initial coordinating activities between the Consortium Group partners. (July 2018 Meeting Summary)
Efforts to build momentum, further develop the STEPP program initiative, and solidify partnerships are moving ahead. Stormwater pollution continues to grow in many parts of the country; having tools available to enhance the confidence in treatment options will help us successfully address this problem.
For further information regarding the STEPP Initiative, contact Seth Brown, WEF's Stormwater Institute Senior Advisor, email@example.com.
Letters of Support
STEPP has received unsolicited letters of support from several jurisdictions, states, and organizations. See below for details:
Our associations (Associated General Contractors of America, International Council of Shopping Centers, Leading Builders of America, National Apartment Association, National Association of Home Builders, National Multifamily Housing Council, National Association of Realtors, and Retail Industry Leaders Association) are pleased to support the development of a National STEPP program, as outlined in the recent report: Framework for a National Testing and Evaluation Program Based upon the STEPP Initiative. Read more.
The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ), Water Resources Division, is pleased to support the recommendations of the National STEPP Workgroup Steering Committee. Read more.
It is the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's understanding that WEF is determining the feasibility of creating a national protocol for the testing and evaluation of Manufactured Treatment Devices. The Department fully supports the development of such a protocol and applauds WEF's leadership and efforts in this matter. Read more.
The Washington State Chapter of the American Public Works Association's Stormwater Managers Committee expresses its support for developing a national testing and evaluation program for stormwater products and practices. Read more.
The State of Washington Department of Ecology supports the idea of a national program that provides a level of detail comparable to our program and addresses our concerns. We look forward to working with WEF as you move forward on this project. Read more.


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Falkirk defender Luke Leahy insists the Bairns have not been overawed all season – so there is no chance of them fearing Kilmarnock in the crucial play-off final.
Peter Houston's side set up a promotion decider against the Rugby Park outfit after seeing off Hibs 5-4 on aggregate.
Falkirk defied the odds in the Championship this season by gate-crashing the so-called two-horse race at the summit with a second place finish ahead of their Leith counterparts.
Highlights included two victories over eventual champions Rangers, while Falkirk also ended the league campaign with the fewest defeats of any team – four.
Even though Kilmarnock are the side trying to preserve their top-flight status, Leahy, who scored a stunning equaliser in Friday's 3-2 second leg win over Hibs, insists the Bairns will not be intimidated in the final, starting in Thursday's first leg at the Falkirk stadium.
He said: "We'll go again on Thursday and prepare. We've got nothing to fear, we've been brilliant all season and we've just gone and beaten Hibs over two legs. We've nothing to fear from Kilmarnock.
"We've had an unbelievable season. We'll keep going, we'll rest up and do the usual and come Thursday we'll be raring to go.
"The character in that dressing room from the management to the players is second to none."
Leahy brought Falkirk level on Friday eleven minutes from time after a James Keatings brace cancelled out Blair Alston's early strike for the Bairns.
Bob McHugh clinched victory for Houston's men with literally the last kick of the game.
Leahy added: "I was just delighted, it was a weird game because we started off really well.
"The first 25, 30 minutes, I thought that was the best we've played. Every pass we were playing was coming off, everything was coming off.
"But then they got their two goals.
"It shows the character in there from the boys, we're never defeated – even if it's the 94th minute or whatever.
"As soon as I hit it I knew it was going in the net. From then on I think we looked like the only team that would score.
"My goal against Livingston was probably better than that, but Friday's occasion tops it – I'm delighted. There's no better feeling than that."


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No to militarist approaches to solve the nation's problems!
Task Force Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP) is deeply concerned with the Mindanao-wide declaration of martial law and its effects on human rights.
To begin with, Proclamation No. 55 declaring a state of national emergency on account of lawless violence is still in place.
Is the Duterte administration admitting that it is powerless to curtail and contain lawless elements without special powers such as martial law? Is not the response too heavy-handed to handle the Maute group?
TFDP believes that the declaration of martial law in Mindanao is a slippery slope and will be at the expense of human rights, justice and peace. Innocent civilians will become the victims. We might end up creating a bigger monster – a dictator – rather than solving the age-old problems of injustice, discrimination and maldevelopment in Mindanao and the entire country.
History has proven that martial law under the Marcos regime did not solve the nation's problems. It only created longer-lasting problems which we still grapple with to this very day – poverty, inequality, maldevelopment, injustice, exclusion.
History has also proven that a hardline, militarist approach to resolve issues underlying the secessionist and even the religious fundamentalism now spreading will not result to a climate of peace and justice. It will only fan the flames of protest and rebellion.
Criminal elements in Mindanao and elsewhere are a police matter. Let excellent police work anchored on human rights and solid investigation efforts be allowed to proceed.
Revoke the martial law declaration!
No to militarist approaches to solve the nation's problems!
All submissions are republished and redistributed in the same way that it was originally
published online and sent to us. We may edit submission in a way that does not alter or
change the original material.
Human Rights Online Philippines does not hold copyright over these materials. Author/s and
original source/s of information are retained including the URL contained within the
tagline and byline of the articles, news information, photos etc


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Year-End Tips For Freelancers
It's almost 2013, and since the world hasn't ended, if you freelance, you'd best consider how to close out the year in the best way possible. Here are a few tips culled from the Web:
- If you've had a good year, buy some stuff you need. If you make the business purchase on your credit card before the year's up, it counts as an expense for 2012, even if you don't pay the bill until the next year, says attorney Julian Block. (Exception: store credit cards. Seriously.)
- Again, if your year was great and you expect next year to be slower, hold off on invoicing for some things until the new year. You can spread out your tax liabilities this way.
- Sock some money away for retirement. You can actually contribute to an IRA through April 15 of next year, so this one isn't as important.
- Fire a time-consuming, annoying, or cheap client. It'll feel great.
- Consider raising your rates. Even if you're paying all your bills, you could always afford to save a bit more for retirement–or work a little less each week.
- Figure out where your money comes from. If you're relying on one or two big clients, perhaps it's time to diversify a bit and target new markets. If all your money is coming from writing articles, maybe you'll want to consider selling e-books or starting an ad-supported blog.
- Finally, it's time to set new goals for the next year. Did you make the money you wanted to? Did you work on the types of projects you wanted? If you didn't, now's a good time to start thinking about how to make it happen in 2013.
Best of luck, gig economy workers!


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If there's one thing you can say about UFC heavyweight Pat Barry beyond his fight skills, it's that he's a hell of a nice guy.
During his Q&A appearance prior to UFC on Versus 3 in Louisville, Ky., Barry had a room full of fans laughing and joking along with him as he told stories and answered questions.
At the UFC Fighter Summit, Barry somehow managed to strip down to his underwear and sit quietly during one of the talks being given, while fighters all around him chuckled and couldn't help but laugh at the gentle giant's antics.
He even famously knocked down his idol Mirko "Cro Cop" Filipovic when they fought, and helped him back up.
Yep, there's no denying that Pat Barry is a nice guy, but that's also his problem.
See, Barry recently started working full time with a new camp in Minnesota. A camp full of heavyweight wrestlers who are probably just as nice as he is off the mat, but when it comes time to spar and train, they'd just as soon step on your face as to look at you.
His new head coach Marty Morgan knew that he could unleash Barry's inner animal, he just had to approach it the right way.
"Out here more than anything else, what it seems like Coach Morgan is doing more than anything else is he is getting me to develop an aggression level that he says he sees inside of me that I haven't let out," Barry told MMAWeekly Radio. "He's like 'you're in the ring and you're playing the game of fighting very well, you play the game of fighting excellently, but you're not trying to make a meal out of anyone in there. You're going to win the game, but you're not going to take this person home and feed your family,' and I was like damn, alright."
Barry understood immediately what Morgan was talking about. He didn't realize it at the time, but Barry's tendencies to be a nice guy in the ring started all the way back when he was in his earliest days as a kickboxer.
"My very first kickboxing match ever I fought a guy named David Roshon, and when I punched him in the stomach, he hunched over, and I put my hand on his back and asked him if he was alright. Hey man, you okay? He almost uppercut me and knocked me out, so I hit him in the stomach again, he hunches back over, and I'm like, I'm just trying to see if you're alright. That's the habits you have," Barry said.
When he first started working with the camp prior to Brock Lesnar's title fight against Cain Velasquez, Barry noticed there was a real mental difference working with the crew comprised mostly of grizzled wrestlers.
Barry was a nice guy for a while, but now that mentality has changed.
"It's just been nice guy Pat, play the game really well, make sure you can stand up and get up and walk out after. Real wrestlers are just rough. I'm like, hey man you're arm's broken and they look at me like, yeah that's fine, don't worry about it," Barry said.
"We fight the way we train. That's a fact. We don't train the way we fight, we fight the way we train. However you train that's how you're going to come out and fight."
In the past, Barry has had problems fighting heavyweights to work with, but an even bigger problem are heavyweights that can take his vicious leg kicks or power punches, that don't get up and walk away from him for good.
That mentality caused him to start pulling punches, not hitting guys with all his force, and not truly being prepared for another fighter stepping in the Octagon opposite him, ready to tear his head off.
"Most anybody that fights has run across this problem from before where if you do let go on somebody, either they're going to get upset with you or they just don't come back for the rest of the week. That's always been my problem as long as I've been back here stateside. I might throw a punch or kick at somebody not necessarily to finish them, but at least to put some kind of intent on it and the next thing you know, they don't come back," Barry explained.
"I found a group of guys who are big of size and then I can let go on these guys, and they're fine with that. But I haven't done that in such a long time that it gets hard in training, and it gets mentally tough because it's like, 'well, I could pull my glove out, but if I pull my glove out it's going to rip your ear off,' and then they sit there and go, 'well, I've got another ear, so why didn't you do it?'"
As the training camp wore on, Barry noticed that his killer instinct developed. Like a lion stalking an antelope on the Discovery Channel, Barry stopped smiling and checking on his teammates, and went for the kill.
It's that very switch that Barry believes will carry him to victory this weekend when he faces fellow striker Cheick Kongo at UFC on Versus 4 in Pittsburgh. The reason he knows he has to have that killer instinct is because Kongo will be doing the same exact thing.
"Cheick Kongo's going to try to do whatever it takes to finish me. He's not going to do whatever just to win, just to be a 'C' student. You shouldn't be just a 'C' student or a 'D' student when it comes to the game of fighting. You can't," Barry stated.
"We've got to come in there and we've got to finish fights. Because we all have to take responsibility for everything we do. If you step in the Octagon you've got to be ready for the worst case scenario every time. Cause there is the possibility of death, there's the possibility of being maimed and being hurt for a very long time, there's a possibility of anything and everything going on. When you step in there you've got to accept that, and you've got to know that could happen. If I hit him, and he don't walk out, that's his fault."
It might be an odd sight on Sunday night to see a scowl on the face of Pat Barry instead of his signature smile, but if he lays out Cheick Kongo with a high kick or a nasty punch, his smile will surely return.
It will just be for a different reason this time.
Damon Martin is the lead staff writer and radio host for MMAWeekly.com.
Follow @DamonMartin on Twitter or e-mail Damon a question or comment.
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