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For all of you who just can't seem to comprehend it and are often too quick to judge. Let me simplify and explain.
I don't reach out to people. I'm terrified of talking on the phone and starting conversations with strangers. I'm even scared of texting certain friends and coming on too strong, of graduating from a concerned friend to an annoying nuisance. So I leave messages unread. I wait too long to answer back. I don't want to let on that I care too much or make people think that I'm needy.
But I care more than anyone realizes. I care so much it hurts.
I come across as a snob, because I find it hard to talk, and hard to force a smile. But I'm not trying to be a bitch. I'm only trying to survive, because, to me, social interaction is a war zone. It makes my cheeks redden, my lungs flutter and my mind freeze.
That's why I don't always look people in the eye as they're talking to me or why I tend to fiddle with the closest thing within my grasp. I look at their face, at the wall behind them, I might even glance down at my phone or twiddle my fingers. It makes me seem like I don't give a damn about what they have to say, but avoiding their gaze and fiddling with something is just a crutch. I'm paying closer attention than they can imagine. Absorbing every word.
I'm not a good conversationalist and it makes me seem like a shitty friend. I don't jump into conversations. I'm quiet in groups. People assume that I'm sitting there, judging them for every word that pops out of their lips when really I'm in awe of how easily they can communicate. How natural it is for them. How human they are and how fucked up I am.
Of course, they don't realize that I have anxiety. They just think I'm quiet. Shy. No, they don't see I have anxiety, because I'm not shaking at the table, hyperventilating into a paper bag or bawling my eyes out. My meltdowns happen before I see them.
The night before, on my drive there, in the car, I'm freaking out the entire time. Imagining all of the things that could go wrong. Picturing how embarrassed I'll be. But when I'm finally in public, I internalize everything. I try to minimize my physical symptoms to avoid drawing attention to myself, but just because I calmed my shaking doesn't mean I've calmed my mind.
I'm still anxious. I'm just not showing it. Secretly, I'm freaking out over what I look like. Freaking out over what to say next. Freaking out over why someone across the room gave me a strange look. And if I need to compose myself, I'll escape to the bathroom and heavy breathe inside of a stall or take a drink, and then walk back into the room like I'm perfectly fine.
But I'm not fine. Anxiety makes sure I'm never fine. It makes me hate myself. It makes me turn down opportunities that I know I'd enjoy. It makes me stay quiet when I have something important to say. It makes me look like a complete asshole.
But that's not true at all. I'm just someone that's trying to get through the day. Someone that wants to be liked, but feels like they'll never belong.


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Lori Bell and Rhonda Trueman to Speak at Computers in Libraries 2009!
From Computers in Libraries 2009 Advanced Conference Program:
"Libraries have been in virtual worlds for 3 years, and there are new worlds appearing every day. What are different types of libraries doing in those worlds? How is it different from traditional libraries and library web services? How have services changed in 3 years? What is coming up? What is the future? What do libraries need to be ready for? This overview of what libraries are doing in virtual worlds looks at the past and the present and provides predictions for the future for libraries and librarians in virtual worlds. "
If you are planning to attend CIL 2009, please attend this presentation on April 1st and the book signing on March 30th!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
"Real Librarians in Virtual Worlds" CIL 2009
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subset: commoncrawl


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Sorry if that sounds crass, but it's the toasted toad's truth, as Chris would say. I went over to Sarah's last night to help with some shelves and wallpaper removal, and we ended up doing one of the Biggest Loser's strength training routines. A bajillion squats and lunges later, I find that my backside is rebelling, saying, "Ha HA! You thought you could break me! Not gonna happen, wussy!"
Today ends the first week of half marathon training, and later today I'm heading to the Y for a moderate temperature under which I can manage the 3-4 mile walk required today. The 20th Ave Y has a new gymnasium with an elevated track overlooking it that is, on the whole, rather nice. Eleven laps on the track equals a mile, so I'll be heading there today, ipod in hand, to complete the first leg of this journey.
I have to admit there's something very cool about participating in training, the idea of preparing for something greater than yourself. A half marathon, or 13.1 miles, is quite a distance, and I must admit that I'm lucky the only hills in Oshkosh are the bridges over the Fox River. But still, I feel invigorated by the goal, comforted by the support of friends, and a strong desire to see this through. As walkers, we'll probably be some of the last to cross the finish line, but who cares? Crossing the finish line is what it's all about. I may just have to look ahead to another.
In many ways 2009 felt like the year of tying up loose ends, completing the degrees, getting past wait lists and waivers so that the real changes can begin. With the advent of 2010, it's amazing to think how much has changed already, and how much will continue to change over the next couple of months.And I think I'm ready to face what comes.
Torn Inside Out…
4 years ago


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If you were planning a beach wedding or party in Kihei, Maui, this holiday season, think again. A major storm blew from the southwest in the first week of December 2007 flooding normally desert-like south Maui. At the storm's worst, winds topping 60 MPH blew almost seven inches of heavy rain into Kihei's low-lying streets causing major flooding. Many people lost their cars, pets and yards to flood waters.
Rains pushed torrents of mud and soil downslope into Kihei. Mud up to three inches deep is caked to the sidewalks. Already eroding beaches disappeared completely. One area resident, Stephanie Sachs, said, "All of the sand is gone–completely gone." Without the sand, lifeguard towers collapsed and washed away. Standing on the grass at Grove Park and looking toward the ocean, there is a huge drop-off where the sand used to be.
The damage is significant. All of Kihei's beaches are closed, including Kam I, Kam II, Kam III and Grove Park. Even the grassy areas are cordoned off with yellow police tape. No announcements have been made about when the beach parks will reopen.
Now that the storm has passed the danger to visitors lies underfoot. Shoe-piercing keawe thorns cover the ground. Like mini hypodermic needles, these thorns cause painful foot injuries. Crews of county workers are hard at work to remove the thorns strewn by downed keawe trees that litter the South Maui coast.
Most of the other beaches on Maui, including in Wailea, Ka'anapali and the North Shore remain open. But be prepared to fight crowds as fewer beaches will concentrate visitors on those that are accessible.
Official updates from Maui County are available at www.mauicounty.gov .


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TEXARKANA COLLEGE. Texarkana College, in Texarkana, was founded in 1927 as a public junior college and a branch of the local public school system. Dr. Henry W. Stilwell served as both the superintendent of schools and president of the college, which was housed in a single building at Sixteenth and Pine streets; the laboratories and gymnasium were used jointly by the college and the high school. After an election in 1941 the Texarkana College District was established, and a tax was assessed for the support of the college. In 1948 twenty acres was purchased to serve as a new campus. Construction of administration and gymnasium buildings was begun in 1950, and the college was moved to this location the next year. In 1954 construction of an auditorium and classrooms was begun. In 1957 the members of the board of the Texarkana Independent School District, who had also been serving as a board of regents for the college, voted to separate the two boards. Shortly thereafter Stilwell resigned his post as superintendent of schools, but he remained president of the college until his death in November 1959. Enrollment increased from 109 students in 1927 to 3,801 in 1985. In 1963 the library contained 13,000 volumes. By 1986 it contained more than 139,000 volumes and 1,300,000 microforms. In 1971 an agreement was reached with East Texas State University that allowed East Texas State University at Texarkana, which became Texas A&M University-Texarkana in 1995, to share the facilities of the junior college, where the university offered upper-level and graduate courses. Texarkana College curriculum includes the first two years of all basic college courses and a number of terminal courses in business and data processing. The college also offers programs in licensed vocational nursing, medical technology, and an associate in science degree in conjunction with two local hospitals. The college enrolled 4,500 students in the fall of 1990. The college completed a new Business Administration and Computer Technology and Information Systems building in 2000. In the fall of 1999 enrollment at Texarkana College was 3,446 and the faculty numbered 169. Carl M. Nelson was president in 2001.
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- Subjects
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- GCSE Options & Coursework
- Assessment
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Students at Parmiter's experience a curriculum which contributes to a well-balanced education, developing the abilities and skills of individuals so that they take a valuable, positive and active place in society. The curriculum meets the need of each student, regardless of gender, race, religion, sexuality or disability. Our primary aim is for each Parmiterian to be self-assured and caring, an active and well-rounded citizen with integrity, who respects others and contributes to society.
The curriculum demonstrates breadth, balance, cohesion and relevance. It is delivered through a variety of appropriate learning and teaching styles which create conditions for effective learning. This includes provision for students with specific needs and differentiated tasks for more able students. We equip each student to make informed and realistic decisions at each stage in their school career.
Confidence and fluency in numeracy, language and literacy are recognised as essential foundations for success in all subjects. As well as dedicated teaching, mathematical fluency and spoken language, reading, writing and vocabulary, are developed in all relevant lessons.
Assessment and feedback are a key part of the curriculum. Summative assessment includes internal and external tests, and teacher-assessed class and coursework. There is regular communication with parents through a reporting system and parents' evening for each year group. Formative assessment is more diverse: it includes written feedback from teachers but it also covers verbal feedback, peer- and self-assessment.
Curriculum at Key Stage 3
In Years 7 to 9, all students follow a curriculum designed to develop essential skills and knowledge in a broad range of subjects. Each department offers a relevant, balanced and differentiated curriculum that has regard to the National Curriculum. The curriculum includes the discrete teaching of Drama and humanities subjects; the sciences are taught as discrete subjects from Year 9. A second modern foreign language (Spanish or German) is studied from Year 8.
In Key Stage 3 students are taught in mixed-ability form groups for the majority of their subjects. Academic setting is introduced in Year 8 for Mathematics and in Year 9 for the sciences. Mixed ability groupings (in groups different to their form groups) are used in Design & Technology (Years 7 – 9), PE (Years 7 – 9) and Modern Foreign Languages (Years 8 – 9).
In Years 7 to 9 all students follow the Life Skills programme, delivered through a fortnightly lesson. In Life Skills students cover a variety of topics including PSHE (personal, social, health and economic education), Citizenship, Careers and Financial awareness. The programme is supported by valuable visits from outside agencies. In addition, all Year 7 students follow a Resilience programme. This programme, delivered through a fortnightly lesson, aims to build resilience and promotes realistic thinking, adaptive coping and social problem-solving skills. The 'resilience strategies' are revisited during Life Skills lessons in Years 8 & 9. Sex and relationship education is delivered through the Science curriculum and the Life Skills programme.
Curriculum at GCSE (Key Stage 4)
In Years 10 & 11, students follow a curriculum designed to prepare them for GCSE examinations and post-16 opportunities. The curriculum includes compulsory (core) and optional elements; each element can be differentiated to suit the individual needs of students. Parmiter's is committed to offering a broad range of optional subjects so students can pursue their areas of interest. The core subjects are currently: English Language; English Literature; Mathematics; the Sciences; Modern Foreign Language; Religious Studies. Detailed guidance is offered to students and parents in order to ensure each student follows an appropriate curriculum, particularly in light of the recent major changes to GCSE courses.
In Years 10 & 11 all students follow the Life Skills programme (non-examined), delivered through a fortnightly lesson in Year 10 and workshops in Year 11. The programme includes topics such as global issues, personal finance and political understanding. Again, outside speakers are arranged as much as possible to give the students as broad an understanding as possible of the subject. Sex and relationship education is delivered through the Science and RS curricula and the Life Skills programme. All students participate in four Games lessons per fortnight.
Curriculum in the Sixth Form (Key Stage 5)
Major changes (effective since September 2015) will impact the Sixth Form curriculum for the next two academic years. However, Parmiter's remains committed to offering an extensive academic Sixth Form curriculum, with around 30 courses available at GCE level. All students have the opportunity to take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) to further pursue a particular area of interest.
In Year 12, all students attend a weekly Liberal Studies session. As well as guidance on careers education and personal well-being (including sex and relationship education), a wide range of outside speakers introduce students to a variety of political, moral and social issues. In Year 13, all students attend a fortnightly pastoral period, providing further guidance on careers and higher education and preparing them for life after Parmiter's.
Further details about the curriculum and related information can be found in the menu options on the left and in the Sixth Form area of the website.
Information about the teaching time allocated to each subject at Key Stage 3 and 4 is detailed here.
Beyond the Curriculum
The school provides a wide range of opportunities beyond the classroom. Extra-curricular activities enrich a student's experience and are an integral feature of the school's ethos. These include subject-enhancement activities, clubs and societies, visits and exchanges, community service, and a host of sporting, cultural, musical, house-based, public-speaking and dramatic experiences. Leadership opportunities are available to students in all year group at form group, year group and whole school level.
Further details about extra curricular opportunities can be found in the School Life area of the website.


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Lisa Ray in Hello's '50 Most beautiful' list
Lisa Ray, who catapulted to international recognition through Deepa Mehta's Water, has been featured in the Canadian edition of Hello magazine as one of the '50 Most Beautiful People' of the country.entertainment Updated: Jun 07, 2012 16:25 IST
The 37-year-old supermodel-turned-actress features along with Ruby Dhalla, a Canadian politician, in the list which features only two Indians, reported Hello online.
While reacting to her inclusion in the list, Lisa Ray said, "I guess I need to thank my parents for this. I am really proud to feature along with such prestigious people."
The list which was topped by country singer Shania Twain , featured renowned names like 'Complicated' singer Avril Lavigne, actor Keifer Sutherland, Sex and the City star Kim Catrall and model Gabriel Aubry among others.
Lisa Ray who was born in Toronto to a Bengali Indian father and a Polish mother originally planned to study journalism but started modelling when she was spotted by an agent in India at the age of 16. Ray first came to the public attention when she appeared in an advertisement for Bombay Dyeing wearing a high-cut black swimsuit.
First Published: May 20, 2009 08:15 IST


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It is recommended that cat owners try to brush out matted cat hair gently with a brush, according to Petful. A wide-tooth comb, slicker brush or mat brush are helpful tools to have for keeping kitty's hair tangle free.
Use these steps to keep a cat's fur mat free.
- Brush hair gently
- Use a detangler
- Cut it out
Sit down with the cat and carefully brush its hair with a wide-tooth comb. When you come to a matted area, hold the matted hair close to the skin with one hand to keep it from pulling at the skin. Brush out the mat starting at the ends of the hair and working up toward the skin.
Apply a child-friendly or pet-safe hair detangler to the matted area to help loosen it. However, do not attempt to give the cat a bath to wash out the mats as this may cause them to tighten up even more.
Cut out the hair mat only if multiple attempts at combing it out aren't working. Use a mat comb, which contains a recessed blade, to cut some of the matted hair as it brushes it. If this doesn't work, have a professional use a buzz cutter to cut out persistent mats and keep the cat's hair looking trim. Scissors aren't recommended, but if they are an only option, lift the mat up away from the skin when cutting to avoid injuring the cat.


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Jennifer Lopez: LOVE? CD Signing
Jennifer Lopez celebrate her new album LOVE? with a CD signing held at the Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood on Tuesday (May 3) in Hollywood, Calif.
The 41-year-old American Idol judge signed a guitar exclusively for a Art Project Los Angeles benefit. The event is a red-carpet charity art auction and artists reception, a benefit for APLA, which provides life-saving care for thousands of Angelenos living with HIV/AIDS.
The red carpet event, VIP cocktail party and live charity auction, take place on Friday, June 24.
FYI: Jennifer is wearing Elie Saab black jersey trousers and H. Stern jewelry.


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This year I hosted a gingerbread party for my daughter and 13 of her friends from her Adventure Guides group. (I know, many of you are thinking wow, that's ambitious!) This group is just for Dads and daughters and it's great way for the dads to connect with their daughters and have a special time with just them. Each month they go to someone's house and do a craft and we had the month of December, so I thought it would be fun for them to decorate Gingerbread houses.
I found these gingerbread molds from Michaels aren't they adorable.
Candy station set up for the kids to come over to choose what they wanted to add to their houses. This sprinkle set is Candyfetti from Sweets Indeed. They have a fun blend you can coordinate with your parties.


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Approaching the Thieves
This page explains how to approach copyright thieves, or those who misrepresent you and/or your career.
*** If you are dealing with any of the companies listed on page 1, you would be advised to skip straight ahead to action number 8 ***
*** You may wish to check this site - https://www.lumendatabase.org Type in the infringing sites URL and you will have access to how many people/companies have made complaints against them. You can add this information as you wish eg; covering letters to hosts, information for your Lawyer ***
1) Assuming the site has a contact button, you are best advised to send a polite email in the first instance, as immediate legal demands often bring forth a very uncouth response. It would laughably seem that manners are of the utmost importance among the criminal elements.
2) If after seven days, you have received no response, you may wish to move onto stage two. I would caution you not to wait too long, because you will find that this is an insurmountable problem, for which most laws are mere 'lip service'. Send them a Cease and Desist Notice and/or a DMCA. You are probably better to send both, along with your initial contact, as a covering letter:
Example DMCA: http://www.ipwatchdog.com/2009/07/06/sample-dmca-take-down-letter/id=4501
Example Cease and Desist Notice: https://nppa.org/sites/default/files/cease_and_desist_sample.pdf
You will need to send this email to ALL KNOWN contacts, because while a site may not respond, their host very often does.
a) Copy and paste the web site address here: http://domainwhitepages.com and then copy and paste all the contacts to your email
b) Copy and paste the web site address here: http://www.kloth.net/services/nslookup.php and then copy the IP you are given
c) IF the site is associated with Ripe, copy the IP into the box marked 'How to Find Abuse Contacts' and it will reveal a contact to you: https://www.ripe.net/support/abuse and/or copy the IP into the box and search and then copy and paste all the contacts to your email from this site: https://whois.arin.net
d) Purely to be thorough, check the infringing site for a contact email and if there is one, add that too
3) Meanwhile - you can have the sites delisted from search engines -
4) If the matter is one of misrepresentation and you live in Europe, you might have the link removed from listings under the 'European Right to be Forgotten':
5) Many sites, whose business is spam or malware, will simply use your name for erroneous, ridiculous purposes. If this is the case, you might consider registering your name as a trademark, whereupon you can follow the same steps but with the argument being 'trademark infringement', rather than 'copyright infringement':
6) If you get something removed by the site, or the host, send it here, to be removed from the listings:
If the Bing form won't accept your link, you can try here: https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/concern/bing
7) If after the date you have given, which should be no less than a week and no more than a month, your situation is not resolved, you could leave reviews about their site, in some cases at:
8) If you still have no resolution to your issue you might consider hiring a hacker:
or a Lawyer:
or bring the case yourself:


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|Helene Cooper's "The House at Sugar Beach": A Book Review
|By: Wynfred Russell
The House at Sugar Beach: In Search of a Lost African Childhood
By: Helene Cooper
Publisher: Simon & Shuster, 352 pages, $25.00
Review: Shimmering….This book delves deeply and richly into Liberia's unique history. Though Americo-Liberians may be the story's main focus, their doubts, insecurities, tragedies, losses and heartbreaks belong to all who read this poignant biography.
The House at Sugar Beach by Helene Cooper is a literary masterpiece; an astonishing and moving story about growing up in Liberia during its halcyon years. The reader is swept up in the smells, sights, and innocence of Cooper's interrupted childhood. She tells the haunting story of her privileged Liberian family torn apart by violence, exile and civil war, and of her return to the country she fled over two decades ago in order to reconnect with her foster sister. It is a compelling idyll extracted from the broader pages of Liberia's recent turbulent history.
In the opening pages, Cooper meticulously traces her lineage back to some of the pioneers of Africa's first independent republic, including two patriarchs Elijah Johnson and Randolph Cooper. She describes how class cleavages in Liberia based on assumptions of superiority was second nature among the country's ruling elites, the Americo-Liberians (aka "Congo people"), obscuring a growing resentment among the indigenous Liberians (aka "Country People").
The historical sections on the founding of Liberia by manumitted African Americans in the early 19th-century are fascinating and informative. The same is true of Cooper's reporting on present-day Liberia and its aftermath civil war struggles. The book is far more than just one Liberian woman's memoir. It's the story of a country – one that has long been tied to the United States of America. It is a story that holds significance for Liberians and Americans alike.
Cooper spent her formative years at Sugar Beach, a secluded enclave 11 miles outside of Monrovia, and a few jumps from Roberts International airport (Robertsfield), in a 22-room ultramodern house overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. She and her siblings Marlene, Janice and John Bull attended the best private schools, grew up in opulence with servants, and spent vacations in Spain, Switzerland, and the United States. But her narrow perspective was expanded when the family took in a young Bassa girl, Eunice Bull, as a foster daughter. Helene and Eunice became inseparable sisters, sharing girlish obsessions with make-up, fashion, pop music, and unrequited crushes on boys.
The Cooper family fortunes, like many Americo-Liberian families who were in power during that epoch, were turned upside down on April 12, 1980, when a bloody coup d'état changed life in Liberia forever. Though Cooper and much of her family sought refuge in the U.S., her affection and loyalty to her homeland are eloquently presented in The House at Sugar Beach.
Isolated at Sugar Beach, the Cooper women were assaulted by foot soldiers of the military junta, with Helene's mother submitting to gang rape in order to protect her daughters. After high-ranking former cabinet ministers, including one of her cousins, foreign minister C. Cecil Dennis, were publicly executed, the family fled to the United States. But Eunice was abandoned to the macabre that became Liberia.
Cooper writes about adjusting to life in America – first in Knoxville, Tennessee, and later in Greensboro, North Carolina – which was a challenge, but she eventually found her niche. She studied journalism at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill and became an international correspondent for the Wall Street Journal and now The New York Times, reporting from hot spots all over the globe. Back in Liberia, Eunice cobbled up what, by African standards, was a middle class life, despite the recurrence of political turmoil that at times left her jobless and in imminent danger.
The once undividable sisters had minimal contact until 2003 when Cooper decided to set aside her ambivalence about returning to Liberia. She was on assignment for the Times, embedded with U.S. troops in Iraq when her military vehicle was in a terrifying accident. Lying in the Iraqi desert amidst the wreckage of her vehicle, Cooper had a realization: "I shouldn't die here…If I'm going to die in a war, it should be my own country. I should die in a war in Liberia." Finally revisiting her homeland a few months later, Cooper faced the ghosts of the past, including the house at Sugar Beach, which had now been taken over by squatters. But the central reason for her trip was to see Eunice, and this powerful story culminates with their reunion, as Cooper learns the often harrowing details of her sister's experiences over the years. The meeting proves an emotionally-charged encounter of reconciliation and redemption.
In The House at Sugar Beach, the 42-year-old Liberian-born journalist delivers a deeply emotional memoir, a historical perspective, and a story laced with Liberian-English phrases comingled in one book that you won't be able to put down; as she expertly recreates both the everyday joys and traumatic events that marked her and Eunice's lives.
Cooper writes: ''In my sheltered existence, I had never dug deep enough to wonder how much native Liberians resented us. I had been shocked [to learn] the level of hatred." But, how did Eunice feel? The answer is poetically revealed but marked by extreme intensity.
Cooper's book is impeccably written, and leaves readers feeling that they've experienced Liberia's beaches and lagoons, that they've tasted 'cassava leaf' and 'butter pear' (avocado). The narrative varies from psychologically nauseous and tactile passages to a more dispassionate recounting of some shocking events, revealing Cooper's journalistic acumen. As a fellow Liberian it makes me feel nostalgic about growing up watching girls play "Knock Foot" …"Kickball" …or "Blind Man Can't See"….it takes you back, way back to the good ole days.
Helene Cooper will unveil her book and speak about her experiences on Tuesday, September 16th at North View International Baccalaureate World School in Brooklyn Park from 5pm to 6pm.
Editor's Note: For more information, contact Normandale's Center for Multicultural Services at 952-487-8131.


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A Random Act Of Kindness
If I could share 500 words to inspire, this is the important wisdom I'd want to pass along to others...
If I were looking back from the end of my life and telling others what would help the world, what would make the biggest difference, I would ask each person to look around today and find a small "Random Act of Kindness" they could do that would help a stranger.
I would say to go against your ingrained biases, suspend judgment, and think the best for someone who appeared to be on the other "side." Do something to help them without thinking of a return. I believe that when you envision the best traits for someone in need, they may be lifted by your care. It need not be a great act—just letting someone know you appreciate something about them is enough to lift their life a little higher.
National, religious, and cultural differences look small when you recognize that each person cares as much for their children and their family as you do. I saw a scene that positively affected hundreds of people. There was a deadly riot that was expanding until one incident neutralized it. A young man ran to attack an old man in the violent crowd. The old man dropped his weapon and hugged his attacker. Like ripples in a pond, the violence was quelled. There was sobbing as people looked around and took in what could have evolved. These were real people, not faceless enemies.
There was a young girl entering high school who had already been in 30 foster homes, creating problems in each one. In her math class she threw a golf ball that grazed her teacher's head. The teacher's first instinct would normally have been to have the student expelled. Instead, she chose to see a better future for this child. One day, soon after, she asked the girl if she would babysit her 2 children. The girl could hardly believe someone would see the good in her. Since then she has graduated from college with honors and is on her way to graduate school to go into social work to help others. Her high school teacher and 2 daughters were cheering her on at graduation.
I believe one person doing a small act of kindness for a stranger can influence that person, himself, and everyone who witnesses it. I also believe that altruism is part of our evolving behavior. If we see this act, we're naturally inclined to pass it forward. Everyone should agree only good can come of this.
Fifty years from now, warring parties will not have the same leaders. Their citizens will still have the ultimate hope of safety and happiness for their families. My hope is that new leaders worldwide will aspire to a higher level. Meanwhile, today, each of us can do one small act to be a role model for others.
That's not too much for you or me, is it?


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On Monday there was the Phoronix news item about Linaro aiming to unify Linux memory management; in particular it's for embedded ARM platforms and making the existing Linux video memory managers more compatible with that of the SoC designs and drivers. They want the memory manager to be able to share memory buffers across different devices and processes, which is something somewhat sought after already by Linux graphics developers for GEM/TTM, but this may end up leading to a new memory management fork.
On Monday, the Linaro group brought up the issue on the DRI development list, among other lists, but it didn't spark any noteworthy exchanges. Yesterday though it was brought up on the Wayland Display Server mailing list where a vocal discussion ensued. It's this thread.
Tiago Vignatti began by asking whether any of Linaro's kernel memory management work would be pushed upstream or whether this is a fork of the community. Linaro though plans to push the work back upstream into the mainline kernel tree.
Others also chimed in. E.g. "Not again, due! Does DRI has some mentally wrong that cann't be fixed other than re-create? Forking is not always the best thing. A is suck, I can write batter one that does exactly the same as A, but more clean code. So I go ahead and write new B. Because B is new, so I have to fix fix fix fix bugs. Long time after, B fixed all bugs and function the same as A, and, the code is now as buggy as A's."
Tom Cooksey mentions that since GEM/TTM don't current allow sharing of buffers between drivers and don't allow physically contiguous memory allocations, Linaro may end up with "a good chance TTM will be ripped out, stuck into its own driver (with its own device node /dev/ttm) and extended to meet everyone's requirements."
But, for example, upstream TTM actually wants the support for sharing of buffers between drivers since it would be needed for some multi-card configurations, etc. TTM reworking is also needed for being able to handle OpenCL on its stack, etc.
The PathScale engineers and their hired hands had also forked the PSCNV driver for the memory management reasons, among others, to adapt it to better handle such work. PathScale's prinicipal concerns boiled down to no memory security/protection, under TTM's current model the buffer objects can be moved at any time, and TTM being hard to port to other operating systems.
Linaro's Jesse Barker had the following to say on the matter: "No one wants to reinvent the wheel unless it's absolutely necessary (and it typically isn't), but SoC vendors and software partners are encountering problems that they haven't been able to solve with the current upstream mechanisms. Initially, we're primarily concerned with making sure we're asking the right questions and identifying the right people to ask and answer them. Everything will be done publicly and in the mainline. No forking, no revolution, just problem solving. If it turns out that someone else has beaten us to it, that's great."


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Trial Of New Tidal Flow System This Saturday
Posted by Craig Allan | January 26, 2012
We will be testing a new tidal flow system this Saturday. The river will be closed to club members before 8am on Saturday morning. Anyone wishing to participate in tidal flow must attend a safety briefing at 7.50am in the club room. Crews will be given numbers at the briefing and only crews with numbers will be allowed to boat. Matt Stallard and Martin Tate will be acting as marshals. Anyone attempting to boat without a number (having not attended the briefing) or failing to follow marshal's instructions will be excluded from future tidal flow sessions.
The river will be open to other crews from 9.30am as usual.


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Former 'Guns and Ammo' Editor Richard Venola Charged with 2nd Degree Murder
***Updates added***
This from KCTV5:
A former editor of "Guns and Ammo" magazine is charged with second-degree murder in connection with a shooting on Wednesday.
Richard Venola, 53, was arrested at his home on Mayan Drive in the small community of Golden Valley.
I guess their exhaustive journalistic research could only yield one picture of Richard for their story… his mug shot. *Cough*
This one was actually found on the G&A website bio of Richard which they actually link to.
UPDATE: According to this account from the Associated Press (take that for what it is worth) Both men were reportedly drinking and the victim was shot with a rifle. They also say that the victim and Richard were friends. I wonder if this was an AD???
UPDATE: More info from LVRJ:
Agency spokeswoman Trish Carter said Venola used a "high-caliber" rifle to shoot his friend in the chest. She said James Patrick O'Neill, 39, of Golden Valley was dead at the scene of the shooting outside Venola's home in the 4800 block of Mayan Drive.
In a report, Detective Larry Matthews said Venola appeared to be intoxicated when contacted by officers. Neighbors told investigators that Venola was "having words" with the victim before they heard a gunshot.
"Mr. Venola came over to the neighbors carrying a rifle and stated he just killed a man," the report said. "Mr. Venola acknowledged he killed the man, but didn't say why."
Carter said three weapons were taken from Venola's property.
UPDATE: According to this more recent report, Venola was highly intoxicated. He is claiming self defense and claims that the man was stealing some of his guns.


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Sneak Peek: Heather Graham Talks the Flowers in the Attic Sequel With Us
It's no secret that we were slightly obsessed with Flowers in the Attic here at team Obsessed. So when word got out that the DVD was being released today and Heather Graham wanted to talk to us about it—and the upcoming sequel, Petals on the Wind—well, you didn't have to twist our arm. The made-for-TV movie on Lifetime premiered to 6.1 million viewers, who were riveted about the story of four siblings torn from a peaceful life and subjected to abuse resulting from a dark family secret. We chatting with Graham about the mood on the set, how they're aging her character for the sequel, and what's coming up next.
Glamour: Have you been able to watch Flowers in the Attic, or is it too disturbing for even you at this point?
Heather Graham: I did watch it, and it is weird. When you play a character that is the villain, or doing something bad, you can watch it as the person thinking, "Oh, this is terrible," and you can also watch it as the person playing the character where you feel your actions are totally justified, so it's kind of strange. Once you've played the character, you're kind of rooting for yourself, which is very twisted! [Laughs]
Glamour: Did you do anything between takes to lighten the mood?
Heather: It was a pretty dark mood. Ellen Burstyn is lovely, but she's also very intense and focused. We actually had some really great conversations while we were waiting around to do takes, but it was kind of in the vein of what we were playing and conversations about life. It was dark though. Kiernan [Shipka] is very serious, but toward the very end, we would start joking like, "Our family is so screwed up!" [Laughs]
Glamour: Where does the sequel, Petals on the Wind, pick up from?
Heather: It's 10 years later, and it's about Cathy (played by Shipka's character in the first movie) wanting to get revenge on Corrine (Graham). I think of Corrine as a very screwed-up person who needs 10 years of therapy—or maybe more. But because she's insecure and has such low self-esteem, I don't think she really knows how to behave. I actually do believe that she loves her kids and feels bad about what she's done, but she just couldn't think of another way. It's a story of how my character doesn't want to be like her mother, but I start to become like her. And then Cathy hates me, but then she starts to become like me. So it's about child abuse and how it's passed through to generations.
Glamour: How are they going to age you?
Heather: My character is very wealthy in this one. I get my father's inheritance, and I become this really glamorous, rich socialite. It's the late '60s, early '70s, of that era. It's almost over-the-top glamour. Ellen's character (Olivia) has had a stroke, so she's kind of confined to her bed. She's still got her spirit, but she's bed-ridden for some of it. It really focuses on Cathy as a girl in her twenties and how she wants to be a ballerina and go to New York, but how she can never let go of her past. Her brother is still in love with her, and she decides she wants to get revenge on me.
Glamour: When will Petals on the Wind be broadcast?
Heather: Well, we've already shot it. We shot it in February and March. It was very fast. It will be premiering at the end of May. It's funny how people are so attached to these books.
Glamour: You will also appear in the final season of Californication as the mother of David Duchovny's long-lost son. What more can you tell us about it?
Heather: Well, they've been telling me I can't say a lot about the story, so I guess you got some advance secrets! But I loved working with David and the show's creator. In TV, when they cast you, they can sort of write for you, so as I got to play that role, they added a lot of fun stuff. I get to be really sassy—definitely the opposite of Flowers in the Attic. Instead of being this awful, screwed-up mother, I'm this overprotective, almost overly doting, and loving mother.
Glamour: And you're also about to start shooting a movie that you're writing-directing-starring in. I'm afraid you're not busy enough.
Heather: Ha! I've been working on this for about two years, and it's really my passion. We're about to go into preproduction. It's about sex and love from a female point of view and female friendship. It will be really funny. There's so many things as women that drag us down and so many messages in movies that are so confusing and try to make you feel like you have to fulfill all these boxes to accomplish something, and it's just impossible. We hold ourselves to this idea of female perfection that nobody can fulfill. I just feel that we need other messages out there that are about feeling good about yourself and loving yourself exactly as you are. I'm thinking it will come out next year.
Glamour: Which of your past roles comes closest to your personality?
Heather: Definitely the one that I'm writing! But in my past roles, gosh, I try to think of the character, What part of me could do something like this? Acting is really studying psychology and analyzing people and their motivations. I really loved working on Boogie Nights just because that was a very special moment and working with all those people.
Glamour: Your Twitter bio reads "actress and big nerd." We've talked about the actress part. How does the "big nerd" part come into play?
Heather: Haha! I am a goofy, nerdy person, and I love people that are nerds! I feel like they are being authentically themselves and not trying to be cool because it's so easy to try to be cool and impress people. When I was a kid, I wore a neck gear for your braces and was just so awkward! Kind of like Joan Cusack in Sixteen Candles! She had a head gear, but mine was like a neck gear, and still really nerdy. [Laughs]
Glamour: Before I let you go, I have to ask about all of your charitable endeavors in which you're quite active, specifically the Cambodia Children's Fund.
Heather: My friend started it. He was in the movie business, and then quit and moved to Cambodia and started these schools for kids that were working in a garbage dump. It's just so inspiring, and I've visited a bunch of times. I've sponsored kids there, and it's so rewarding. You can talk to them via email, and I've never been a part of something where you get to be in direct contact like that. It's just a really great charity.
The DVD for *Flowers in the Attic *comes out today and features a behind-the-scenes featurette. Will you be watching Petals on the Wind?


text: Formby Court, Murrieta, CA Posted on June 6, 2014 by lizjones Beautiful Golf Course Lot in Bear Creek View the Property Details, More Photos, Map & School information here at the updated Single Property Website! Build your dream home! Premier fairway cul-de-sac lot offers mountain, lake, golf course, city-lights views. Almost ¼ acre lot is situated in exclusive guard-gated community of Bear Creek. Spectacular wide views of 4 greens, 4 tee boxes, 3 fairways and two golf course lakes. Build your dream home among million dollar homes. Challenging Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Community offers, challenging Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, clubhouse, pool, bocce ball courts, tennis courts, weight room, play ground, meeting rooms and more. Schedule a Showing Free List of Foreclosed Homes For Sale Murrieta Homes for Sale Fast Home Search Temecula Homes for Sale Menifee Homes for Sale Homes Close to Where You Work What is Your Home Worth? Call 951-970-4771 for more information on this or any other property. Visit Property Website Courtesy: Liz JonesKeller Williams TemeculaEmail Me Now951-970-4771Licensed In: CALicense #: 01933366 Formby CourtMurrieta, CA 92562List Price: $ 449,000 Have questions? Ask me. California Regional Multiple Listing Service


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North Island College (NIC) is preparing for its third annual career fair at Crown Isle in March.
NIC is inviting and confirming employer booths. The deadline to reserve space is Jan. 31.
New this year is a request for each employer booth to provide the college with information about potential hiring needs. This information is also due by Jan. 31 and will be printed in a booklet for all career fair attendees to take with them.
For more information, contact Treena Nadon at 250-334-5076 on from Monday to Wednesday, 250-923-9739 on Thursday and Friday and at firstname.lastname@example.com.
— North Island College


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The 2.2-litre engine is taken from a Mazda6. On first impressions, it's a bit gravelly around the edges, but improves as you get going. There's a sharp clatter when it first fires, which smoothes as things warm up. It can bog down after upshifts and gearchanges aren't satisfyingly sweet, but stick to third and fourth and it soon feels more energetic.
Like the outgoing version, it drives more like a regular car than an SUV. The high floor and low-ish roof keep you neatly sandwiched so it doesn't feel porky. It also hides its size on the move as the independent (front) and multilink (rear) suspension does its thing. The result it a comfortable ride that isn't lollopy and can handle some pace.
But to chatter on about engines and handling rather avoids the big story here: the options list, or rather, the lack of it. Instead, you get everything as standard - full leather seats (heated and electric), cruise, electric folding mirrors, Bluetooth, a rear-view parking camera and satnav. The Bluetooth's voice recognition system may require your very best accent and the wheel-mounted satnav buttons are trickier than a jumbo's flight deck, but those are the sort of things you'll master as you absorb the car into your life.
More importantly, Mazda will charge you £25,785 for it. To equip rivals in a similar fashion - stuff like the Land Rover Freelander or perhaps the BMW X1 - you'd have to dip into £30k territory. Admittedly the materials aren't as plush as BMW's, but the CX-7 is hardly shoddy. It's like the difference between an M&S pullover and a cashmere sweater - both are quite posh and they definitely beat a cheap shiny one from Primark.
The exterior design changes can be dealt with swiftly as they are barely worth the effort: a bigger grille, a splash more chrome here and there, a bigger spoiler and a new wheel design.


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To deal with diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and injuries in animals a good veterinary student should completely understand the anatomy of animals. Among all the pet animals, dog is the most favorite; a recent survey says that 37.2% percent of the United States households own dogs. Hence it is all the more important for a veterinary student to understand the anatomy of a dog.
3-D Anatomy Software:
A veterinary student will regularly dissect animals, however for better understanding and for continued reference he will need a reliable resource. Biosphera has developed 3-D anatomy software for pet animals like rats, dogs and horse; out of all these software the 3-D canine anatomy is the most popular and widely used.
The virtual dog used for this software is a German Shepherd, and this software allows independent viewing (also combinations) of all major systems in a dog's body. The individual and combined views coupled with different angles make this software highly suited for veterinary teachers, clinics, vet students and also interested pet owners. This layered software covers all the major systems of a dog like the
- Central Nervous System
- Alimentary Canal
- Urinary Track
- Lymphatic System
- Respiratory system
- Circulatory system
- Skeleton
- Muscles
- Male/Female Reproductive system
Every system is showcased in detail, for instance in the respiratory system all important parts like the Bronchial tree, Accessory lobe of the lung, the diaphragmatic lobe, Hyoid bone, Larynx, apical lobe, trachea and cricoid cartilage can be identified individually. There is so much of detail about every internal part of the dog.
One need not be a tech savvy for using this software, it can be installed in most operating systems (windows XP, Vista, 7, 8 and also Mac OS), and consumes minimal system resources. At $54 it is nominally priced; for every license bought you can install the software in two computers. You should have access to the internet at the time of activating the software, once the software is activated you don't need internet access to use the software.
You can download the 3-D Anatomy software from their official website.
Note: Like every 3-d software this too should not be used as the only source of information. This software should be used only as an additional resource while learning anatomy.


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Motorists are being told to expect delays in Burgess Hill this afternoon (Saturday, October 10) due to an accident.
Civic Way is partially blocked in both directions near to the B2113 Queen Elizabeth Avenue junction.
Traffic is slow-moving and drivers are being advised to avoid the area if possible.
Don't miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.
Here are four ways you can be sure you'll be amongst the first to know what's going on.
1) Make our website your homepage
2) Like our Facebook page
3) Follow us on Twitter
4) Register with us by clicking on 'sign in' (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.
And do share with your family and friends - so they don't miss out!
Always the first with your local news.
Be part of it.


text:
|12 Jul 2011
Windows XP SP3
Alternative video editing software to Win Live Movie Maker?
I would like to know that is there any alternative software that is related to Windows Live Movie Maker? Because my PC is unable to run Live Movie Maker (i.e. it's GPU is not optimized to work with it). Please reply ASAP.
|My System Specs
|12 Jul 2011
Windows 7 32 bit
Good a place as any to start
Tools - Video software and downloads - VideoHelp.com
|My System Specs
|Thread Tools
|Similar help and support threads
Live Movie Maker Video Profiles
I thought I would share some custom Windows Live Movie Maker profiles with the community. These custom profiles will allow you to publish/save movies is the following resolutions: 720x480 VBR Quality 85 720x480 VBR Quality 90 720x480 VBR Quality 95 640x480 VBR Quality 85 640x480 VBR...
|Music, Pictures & Video
Splitting video in Windows Live Movie Maker
I'd like to take a hour long video and split it into 5 parts to upload to Youtube and Facebook. In WLMM I see how I can make the start and end points, fade in and out the sound etc and and then click "save trim" but if I save the movie it's still one large file which encodes or whatever all over...
|Music, Pictures & Video
Live Movie Maker-Can video be kept at original size?
I made a huge mistake. I borrowed a friend's camera and took video which sadly, recorded at 240 pixels high. So, when I import into WLMM, the video is automatically stretched to fill the screen when I view it and all of my subjects end up extremely fuzzy. Is it possible to center the video at...
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How do I fade sound from video's using Windows Live Movie Maker?
I'm using Windows Live Movie Maker and have edited 5 or more different video's together to make 1 video to put on Youtube but am unable to fade the sound off of the original video's to add new voice over to the final video. Is it a glitch with Windows Live Movie Maker or is there something else I...
|Music, Pictures & Video
Windows Live Movie Maker - Edit Video
How to Edit a Video in Windows Live Movie Maker This video tutorial will show you how easy it is to edit a video with WLMM. 14699151
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Fly Control for Production Livestock
Nuisance flies can be pervasive and costly to both confined and pasture cattle in North America. Horn flies alone cost North American cattle producers over $1 billion each year. Add face flies, stable flies and even house flies to the mix and you've got a potent threat to cattle production. These disease carrying, biting pests increase cattle stress, lower resistance to illness, and affect feeding to the point of causing fluctuations in weight gain.
Most popular related searches
Central Life Sciences offers insect growth regulat...
Central Life Sciences offers insect growth regulators, Altosid® IGR Feed-Thru for cattle in pasture, and ClariFly® Larvicide for confined cattle, to control the flies that affect the bottom line. Both products are feed-throughs that work in cattle manure, where flies lay their eggs, to stop future populations of biting, disease carrying adults.
Customer reviews
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text:
From the NASA web page:NASA has opened team registration for the 2015 NASA Human Exploration Rover Challenge. The event will be held April 16-18, 2015, at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, in Huntsville Al.
The challenge is open to high school, college and university students in hands-on, experiential learning activities, while also testing potential technologies needed for future deep space exploration.
Student teams participating in the Rover Challenge must design, engineer and test a human-powered rover on a mock course designed to simulate the harsh and demanding terrains future NASA explorers may find on distant planets, moons and asteroids.
For complete article, go HERE for more


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Wednesday, January 06, 2010
Oh the weather outside is frightful,
And since we've no place to go,
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!
Yes the snow is still falling here. Dd's school was closed today so she's been happily Wii'ing (!!!) with DH apart from when he escaped out to the pub and to get some urgent supplies - milk ,bread and chocolate covered strawberries (I didn't prompt him , honest)
The postman brouught me a package from Jacqueline at needleprint - five Quaker charts for the price of 3 . I have my knitting (jacket for DD) and sewing ( still owe some pieces that I've not caught up on with work and illness.)So I've got plenty to keep me busy. My Wii fit arrived yesterday but haven't used it yet. Joined Rosemary Conley online so we'll see how that goes.
Still suffering with cough and yesterday woke with a really painful toe - don't know the cause but it's not my usual tendonitis and the pain is really bad so hobbling around.
5 comments:
- Clare - Aimetu said...
Wii fit is good - although I have not used mine in ages. We've had a snow day here too and it hasn't really cleared so not sure about tomorrow. Have a good day stitching :)
- 4:39 pm
- Erna said...
Hi Jan, seems like the whole world is covered in snow. But here it's not so bad as it is with you.
So good you startes Rosemary Conley and the Wii Fit, wish I was that strong.
Hope you soon feel better (Perhaps gout )
- 8:24 pm
- Mylene said...
We have quite lots here too but still no suspension, Grace falled off her bike yesterday but glad wasn't that bad.
Hope you get to feel better very soon.
We have the Wii fit for a while now for the kids but i never tried it, instead i am trying the Zumba which i see on you tube.
- 9:27 pm
- Barry said...
Somehow we've traded weather patterns. We're having one of our mildest winters here in Toronto (well today excepted) and little snow.
Not that I'm complaining.
- 2:10 pm
- Karan said...
Lots of the white stuff here too & more to come - bitterly cold out too. :0( Have been thinking about getting a Wii - I hate aerobics, so this would be much better..... more fun!!! LOL :0) Hope you feel much better soon.
- 5:19 pm


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The axe head (left) is skinny, sharp, and light for chopping. The maul head (right) is fat, blunt, and heavy for splitting.
If you want to identify yourself as someone who knows nothing about the subject, announce that you're headed out to the woodshed to chop some firewood.
Chopping firewood went out of style with the crosscut saw and was sent into permanent exile by the chainsaw. As a method for obtaining firewood, chopping wood is terribly inefficient – nearly half the wood is turned into chips and left in the woods to rot.
Splitting wood, however – now there's the thing. Splitting is a marvelous technique for turning bolts of tree trunk into chunks of firewood with almost no waste at all. If the wood happens to be straight, knot-free white ash, there's almost no effort, either.
This distinction between chopping and splitting is more than just, well, chopping hairs. The two are different techniques requiring different tools. Use the wrong tool for the job, and you will wind up either in the emergency room or in a rage of frustration.
First the tools. Though it's tempting to call any chunk of axe-like metal attached to a handle an "axe," the true axe has two defining characteristics: it's sharp and it's thin.
The axe is designed to cut its way across wood fibers. In a single swing of the axe, the sharp bit slices into the wood, followed by the thin blade slipping in to cut deeply across the fibers, followed by the eye of the axe head – the fat part surrounding the handle – separating the wood and popping out the resulting wood chip.
This is what chopping wood means: cutting, not splitting. You approach your trunk or tree branch and whack away across the grain, knocking out chips as you go, digging an ever-deeper "V" into the wood until you reach the far side.
Now to the splitting maul, sometimes just called a maul, and occasionally called a "splitting axe" by old-timers. The maul has the opposite characteristics of the axe: it's blunt and fat. The maul is designed to divide a piece of wood in two by forcing the wood fibers apart parallel to the grain. The dull edge exploits a crack between fibers, and the V-shaped head forces the crack apart with continuous pressure.
What if you attempt to split a piece of firewood with an axe? If you're lucky, the thin blade will sink deeply into the wood and stick there so tightly that you'll ponder throwing the whole works – axe and all – into the woodstove to burn it out. If you're unlucky, the force of the axe will split the wood all the way through, burying your sharp axe in the dirt and curling deep gouges out of the blade that will take hours to repair with a file and stone. Suddenly the maul's bluntness starts to make sense.
Worse yet is trying to chop wood with a maul. The maul's blunt blade will glance off the limb or trunk, typically careening in the direction of your leg.
Besides these learning-by-doing methods, which aren't recommended, there are two more ways to tell an axe from a maul, even if the tool in question is a rusty item of unknown origin leaning in the deep shadows of the tool shed. Mauls are heavy – usually six to eight pounds – while axes are light, typically three to four pounds. The entire swing of the maul occurs in the center plane of the swinger's body, where the strong muscles guide and contain the heavy weight. An axe, on the other hand, can be used anywhere from eye level for limbing a tree to ankle level if the tree is already down. Even a beefy lumberjack would have trouble swinging an 8-pound axe all day, given the wide array of arm angles and muscles involved.
Finally, there's handle length. A maul handle is relatively long so as to guide the maul into the ground after it finishes splitting the wood, not back in the direction of your feet. An axe handle is short so that when you lean over to limb a tree lying on the ground, the axe swings above the ground, not into it. Use your arm length as an approximate guide: if the handle is longer, it's a maul, if it's the same or shorter, it's an axe.
There's no better time, with the soaring cost of home heating oil, to take matters into your own hands and learn to split your own firewood. Just don't announce that you're going to chop it. Besides being wasteful and potentially dangerous, "chopping firewood" lands hard on the ears, much like the sound of a nice, sharp axe slicing through a piece of firewood and into a rock buried underneath.


text:
[Kunal Kohli, the genius behind Thoda Pyar, Thoda Magic, (the celluloid wonder, which gave JK Rowling the wicked idea of summoning a love triangle between Harry, Ron and Hermione), sitting in his plush Santa Cruz office with his assistant Danish Aslam, the eventual director of Break ke Baad]
KK - Man I feel like taking a holiday asap.
DA [cunning smile] - Boss, tickets booked for Australia boss.
KK - Jackass, are you kidding me, you think I will go on a holiday down under with you. !! Get off me.
DA - Down Under ? Sir, aap to galat samajh liye !
KK - I meant Australia, you nincompoop.
DA - Oh OK, but sir, if you take me along with you, I will direct a movie for you sir. Only for you. And no charge sir. Absolutely Free. Sir, making you an offer you can't refuse.
KK - You will direct a movie ? You ? Look at you lifting lines from movies like Godfather and delivering them like a pimp. Tell me who made you my assistant ?
DA [deadpan] - Boss, you
KK - Anyways [awkward silence], You know I don't travel without some nice company [sly smile]
DA - Sir deepika mam is already in Australia, and has spared us some dates. Sir, Danish knows your fondness for...
KK - OK OK, but I hope you also know my fondness for [throat itching sound]
DA - Of course sir, the most chikna available.
KK - Hope you will make his character put some lipstick.
DA - Of course sir [suggestively pulls out a maybelline pink lipstick from his pocket]
KK - [winks] He will come cheap, right ?
DA - Very much sir..These days his dearest uncle has also deserted him to do his own marketing. He is in my pocket. [Playing pocket billiards]
KK - Dude, you had this all worked out. I am impressed. Hope you have been equally thorough with the story, plot and the script of this movie you plan to direct.
DA - [Gives a Bemused Blank Expression, thinks for a long time and says] No Sir, I actually haven't even started. My Xbox 360 has kept me way too busy.
KK - Unbelievable...Who trained you to be a director ?
DA - [deadpan and a bit apologetic this time] Sir, you only. And After Hum-Tum's super-duper-platinum hitness, I realised that plots and scripts are extremely overrated and irrelevant concepts anyway.
KK - My boy, you are a fast learner. Never mind, we will get a lot of time in the flight. We will write the story on the back of those immigration forms they hand out. [laughing and exchanging Hi5's with DA]. So when do we fly ?
DA - Next week Sir. Sir, chikna and you have been booked in business class. [winks] while I and the crew will be travelling economy.
KK - This day is ending well. [stands and stretches arms and legs] Let me take a break from work this week then. Milte hai, break ke baad.
DA - Sirji, what an idea, sirji.


text:
Tree health legislation
This guide covers full plant health legislation for forestry. It's aimed at Forestry Commission staff and contract inspectors who work in the sector.
Relevant plant health forestry legislation is listed below. In many cases, the initial legislation is subsequently updated by amending statutory instruments, which should be consulted as well.
Plant Health (Forestry) Order 2005
Includes, incorporating amendments:
- SI 2006 No. 2696
- SI 2008 No. 644
- SI 2009 No. 594
- SI 2009 No. 3020
- SI 2012 No. 2707
- SI 2013 No. 2691
- SI 2014 No. 2420
- SI 2017 No. 1178
This order:
- prohibits the landing of specified tree pests, trees and 'relevant material' (defined as wood and bark, soil, growing medium or used forestry machinery)
- lays down the conditions under which other relevant material may be permitted entry
- sets out the protected zones for various pests, and prescribes the conditions for entry into and movement within the zones for relevant material
- prohibits the keeping, storage, sale or release of tree pests
- sets conditions for sending relevant material to other Member States
- sets rules for registration of importers, forestry traders and producers
- sets rules for the issue of plant passports to accompany certain relevant material circulated in trade
- sets out the powers of inspectors to enter premises (other than private dwellings) and to undertake examinations etc, or order remedial action to be taken
- prescribes offences and penalties for failing to comply with the order
The order is the principal instrument in Great Britain implementing the plant health requirements in the European Union in respect of forestry material, as set out in Council Directive 2000/29/EC.
The Plant Health (Forestry) (Wood Packaging Material Marking) Order 2006
This order formalises the procedures for becoming accredited within the programme in Great Britain. It makes it an offence for any person to apply a mark to wood packaging material without the authority of the Forestry Commission. It also gives inspectors powers to enter premises (other than private dwelling houses) without a warrant where they believe wood packaging material is being fraudulently marked, or is being stored, to:
- seize marking equipment
- require any marks found on wood packaging material present there to be obliterated or removed
The order also prescribes the fees payable on application for a certificate and for renewal of certificates, which will no longer be subject to VAT.
The Plant Health (Export Certification) (Forestry) (Great Britain) Order 2004
This makes provision for the issue of phytosanitary certificates and re-forwarding phytosanitary certificates for export of relevant material (any tree, wood, isolated bark, soil or growing medium, non-manufactured wood or used forestry machinery) to third countries to satisfy the requirements of those countries' phytosanitary regulations.
The Dutch Elm Disease (Local Authorities) Order 1984
Subsequent amendments include SI 1988 No. 604.
This order sets out the powers available to certain local authorities, as listed in the schedule to the order, to take steps to prevent the spread of Dutch elm disease. Each local authority may exercise the powers only in respect of their own area. Officers (appointed by the local authority) who suspect the presence on any premises of elm trees infected by this disease may, on production of their authority (if so required), enter on any land to inspect trees and to take samples. Where the disease is present the officer may either take action himself, or he may require the owner or occupier to do so, to prevent the spread of the disease by destroying the tree, usually by burning on site. Exceptionally, the officer may authorise the removal of the tree to another place for destruction. The order also prescribes offences and penalties for failing to comply with a notice served.
Plant Health Act 1967
The primary legislation governing plant health in Great Britain is the Plant Health Act 1967 (c.8). This prescribes the Forestry Commissioners as the "competent authority in Great Britain as regards the protection of forest trees and timber".
The Act empowers the Forestry Commissioners to:
- make orders to prevent the introduction and spread of forestry pests and diseases
- require local authorities to undertake certain work to prevent the spread of specified pests or diseases
It also makes provision for the creation of offences and imposition of fees for certain work.
The Forestry Commissioners are also designated under section 2(2) of the European Communities Act 1972 (c.68) in relation to measures relating to the Common Agricultural Policy of the European Union in respect of forestry.
European Plant Health Review
The European Union plant health regime was set up to protect the union from harm caused by the introduction and spread of pests and diseases affecting plants, including trees. Although this has largely worked well over the years, a full evaluation was conducted to ensure that it continues to be able to meet its objectives. The evaluation set out a number of options to improve the regime, concluding that the best way forward was to:
- simplify the legislation converting it from a directive to a regulation
- increase prevention by introducing a new category of high-risk plant materials that will require completion of a risk analysis before entry, and by the removal of passenger luggage exemptions for such material
- implement further obligations for surveillance and contingency planning to be introduced
It's expected that these changes will take several years. Read about current progress.


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Special Order
Product Highlights
SAFETY FIRST: Observing the Sun without the proper protection may result in serious personal injury, including permanent eye damage and blindness, and/or damage to equipment. Never point an optic at the sun without an approved solar filter on the front of the optic. For direct solar viewing, viewing the sun through an optic, or when using cameras with an optical viewfinder, ensure your filter is ISO 12312-2 (also written as ISO 12312-2:2015) certified. Never use photographic neutral density filters for direct solar viewing, viewing the sun through an optic, or when using cameras with an optical viewfinder.
Unlike many white-light solar filters that produce views of the sun with a red-orange, bluish, or yellow tint, the Alpine Astronomical 70mm Baader AstroSolar White-Light Solar Filter reveals the sun in its natural white color to show more surface details with greater clarity. The filter is mounted onto a clear-white IR-rejecting plastic ring, which acts as stabilizing element for the filter cell, and the ring is in turn mounted onto the aluminum front frame. The thermal expansion coefficient of the plastic and the film are similar to minimize thermal stress on the film for increased resistance to developing pinholes or tears.
With the ability to be installed on the outside or inside of a binocular optical tube or camera lens, this filter provides a safe way to view the sun or to capture images with a camera. To fit most binocular configurations, one side of the filter housing is cut off and should be installed on the inside of the optical tube to prevent the housings from interfering with each other when the bridge is nearly closed. Recommended for objectives from 60-80mm, the filter is engineered with three centering bolts that can fit housings and lenses with an outside diameter of 101-116mm, or an inside diameter of 75-90mm (if inside-mounting is possible). Installation and removal is quick and easy with no tools or permanent modification to the optic or lens required. This is a single solar filter, for proper use on binoculars two filters must be ordered.
|White-light, broadband
|Clear Aperture
|130 mm
|2.6 oz / 73.0 g
|Packaging Info
|Package Weight
|0.5 lb
|Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
|7.1 x 6.6 x 1.3"


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|"Blackburnian Warblers" Mixed Media
combination of oil painting and wood carving
Sunday, October 4, 2015
Plymouth Fall Art Show Update!
I had a wonderful time at the fall art show this year! We had great weather and lots of people stopped by to view the artwork and to chat with us artists. I received 1st place in the mixed media category with my painting in a box of a pair of Blackburnian Warblers. Thank you to Friends of The Arts for putting on the event! Also thank you to everyone who showed their support by coming out to this event!
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CellAire Foam Paper Is A Versatile Protective Polyethylene Foam paper, Which Can Be Used For Protecting Delicate Items That Are Easily Scratched. Made from Polyethylene a great alterantive to paper giving additional protection.
Ideal for wrapping Pictures, Mirrors and dinner plates.
Each roll is 50cm Wide by 10metres long
Clean lighweight packaging Polyethylene foam for surface protection. Can used on a variety of products, Mirrors, pictures and dinner plates to name a few.
Sealed Air CellAire Polyethylene Protective Foam Rolls is supplied in a 10 metre roll which is 50cm in width.
Call Helpineedboxes on 0113 389 4813 for a chat


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6:30am PT by Rebecca Ford, Andy Lewis
Rights Available! Two War-Themed Books Up for Grabs
This story first appeared in the Feb. 5 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.
As the U.S. approaches the 75th anniversary of Pearl Harbor, World War II stories continue to attract attention in Hollywood as this week's pair of titles attests. First up is a YA novel set against the mostly forgotten 1945 sinking of the Wilhelm Gustloff, which had the most fatalities of any civilian maritime disaster ever. Also catching attention is the newest novel by Chris Cleave, whose Little Bee hit No. 1 on the New York Times best-seller list. More on this week's titles:
Salt to the Sea (Penguin) by Ruta Sepetys
Agencies: UTA, Writers House
This YA tome from the author of the book behind the upcoming film Ashes in the Snow is set against the real-life 1945 sinking of the Wilhelm Gustloff, the worst civilian maritime disaster in history, as it weaves the stories of four young refugees trying to escape war-torn Europe.
Everyone Brave Is Forgiven (Simon & Schuster) by Chris Cleave
Agency: ICM
Booksellers are high on this poignant May novel from the author of Little Bee about an ill-fated love triangle among a pretty socialite, a special-needs teacher and his best friend in World War II London.
Rebecca firstname.lastname@example.com beccamford
Andy email@example.com andyblewis


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Let's start with vinegar.
Thanks to its acidity, distilled white vinegar is effective at killing most mold, bacteria and viruses. Put full strength vinegar in a spray bottle to create an all-purpose cleaner you can use on glass, mirrors, doorknobs, sinks, appliances and countertops (just avoid using it on marble). Instead of harsh bathroom cleaning products use undiluted vinegar on toilets, bathtubs and showers. Add a little baking soda for extra scrubbing power. For stubborn soap residue in the bathroom or grease stains in the kitchen let the vinegar penetrate for 10 to 15 minutes before wiping clean. To eliminate residue on a showerhead mix 1 part baking soda with two parts vinegar in a bag and wrap it around the showerhead. Let it sit for at least an hour. Then remove the bag, give the showerhead a quick wipe and run the water. To keep your dishwasher clean and odor-free, fill the detergent dispenser with vinegar and run it empty once a month. Mix a cup of vinegar with a gallon of water to clean vinyl and linoleum floors.
Break out the peroxide for serious disinfecting.
Hydrogen peroxide (the 3% solution you can pick up at pharmacies and grocery stores) is a nontoxic antibacterial that kills viruses, mold and mildew. You can think of it as an all natural bleach. Anything you typically clean with bleach can be cleaned with peroxide. This includes countertops, sinks, cutting boards, bathtubs, showers, toilets and garbage pails. Simply spray it on, allow the bubbles to subside (hydrogen peroxide needs time to disinfect) and wipe. To clean and disinfect vinyl and linoleum floors mix equal parts peroxide and water to mop. No rinsing necessary. For laundry you can replace bleach with an equal amount of hydrogen peroxide. You can also soak items like toothbrushes, sponges, cleaning cloths, retainers, thermometers and loofahs in hydrogen peroxide to disinfect them. Using vinegar and peroxide together (spray with vinegar and then peroxide) creates a one-two punch that is as effective as bleach at killing bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella, but is safe enough to use on produce without so much as an aftertaste.
Clean, shine, and bleach with lemon.
Lemon juice is a fresh-smelling, all natural cleaner. You can clean non-marble countertops by wiping them with lemon juice and rinsing with water. Bleach stains on countertops, dishes, cutting boards and other surfaces by pouring lemon juice on the stain and allowing it to sit before sprinkling baking soda and scrubbing. Lemon can clean, shine and remove rust stains from solid brass (never on brass plated), copper and stainless steel. Simply sprinkle half a lemon with salt and use it as a scrubber. Continue adding salt and buffing until all stains are removed. Finish by rinsing with water and buffing dry with a cloth. Shine aluminum by buffing it with a cloth dampened with lemon juice or half a lemon. Add a teaspoon of lemon juice to dishwasher detergent for extra grease-cutting power and make easy work of cleaning the inside of the microwave by heating a mixture of lemon juice and water for a minute before wiping down the inside of the machine. To freshen up the garbage disposal toss some lemon peel into the disposal while running hot water. Mix equal parts lemon juice and water to create an all natural air freshener.
The best way to dust wood furniture is with a damp cloth. Commercial wood polishes can contain harsh chemicals and leave a very hard-to-remove residue. For an all natural polish mix two parts olive oil with one part lemon juice and apply it to your wood furniture using a soft cloth.
Lemon is also a powerful bleaching agent. To bleach white clothes soak them in half a cup of lemon juice mixed with a gallon of hot water for at least an hour. Then launder as usual. To remove rust stains from clothes, pour lemon juice on the stain and then rub in cream of tartar. Let the mixture sit until the stain disappears. Then launder as usual.
Finally, when cleaning with vinegar you can always add a bit of lemon juice to neutralize vinegar's strong scent.
Boost your cleaning power with baking soda.
Baking soda is best known for its power to deodorize. All you have to do is keep an open container of baking soda in the refrigerator, freezer or any cupboard to prevent odors.
Sprinkle baking soda on anything you want to deodorize, including (but not limited to) garbage containers, hampers, gym bags, sneakers and the dishwasher. To remove odors from carpeting or upholstery, sprinkle the area with baking soda, let stand for at least twenty minutes and vacuum. Repeat as necessary.
Baking soda's texture and absorbency make it good for cleaning, degreasing and scrubbing various surfaces. Clean and polish silver, stainless steel and chrome with a paste made of 3 parts baking soda mixed with one part water. Simply rub on the paste, rinse with warm water and dry with a soft cloth. Degrease dishes, ovens and other surfaces by sprinkling baking soda on the grease and rubbing with a dry cloth. The baking soda will soak up the grease making it easier to rinse messes away. To remove burnt on food, sprinkle cookware and grills with baking soda, add hot water, let soak overnight and wash as usual. To clean bathroom floors, mop with half a cup of baking soda mixed in a bucket of warm water and rinse. Clean walls and laminate furniture with a damp cloth dabbed in baking soda (the homemade equivalent of Mr. Clean's Magic Eraser). Clean toys with a solution made from 4 tablespoons of baking soda dissolved in 1 quart of water. To clean stuffed toys, dust on baking soda, let it sit for 20 minutes and dust off.
Baking soda is also very effective as a stain remover. You can remove tea stains on teapots and cups by soaking stains in a mixture of ¼ cup baking soda and 1 quart warm water overnight before washing. To remove scuff marks or grease spills from floors, sprinkle with baking soda and wipe clean with warm water.
Use these all natural cleaning solutions with rags you make out of old towels and t-shirts (saving money on paper towels and reducing waste) and you're ready to clean green!
Prefer to buy green cleaning products instead of making your own? Learn what to look for in "green" cleaning products before you buy.


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I had time, today, to look at the white Jetta. It still didn't want to start, so, I pulled the spark plugs. They were sooty and fowled with gasoline, which confirms my suspicion that the return line froze or that the fuel pressure regulator isn't working well. I used a kitchen match to burn the gas off the plugs and scraped as much soot as possible off with a bit of emery cloth. Once reinstalled, I disconnected the power to the fuel rail and turned over the engine to burn any residual gas in the cylinders. I then reconnected power to the fuel rail and upon turning over the engine the car roared to life.
I need to get a fuel pressure gauge to test the system. I suspect that the fuel pressure regulator is bad. However, I've read that this component seldom fails. The fuel pressure regulator is located at the end of the fuel rail. Inside this device is a spring-loaded diaphragm that is actuated by manifold pressure via a vacuum hose. This valve regulates fuel pressure to the injectors by allowing excess fuel to travel through the return fuel line and back to the fuel tank. If the pressure regulator fails, high fuel pressure can result causing fuel to flood the engine. This could lead to a rich mixture, observed as white smoke from the tail pipe, or, to hard starting if the pressure is excessive at initial turn over. Now, there are other possible causes. Perhaps, I have leaky fuel injectors, a vacuum problem or an intermittent obstruction in the return line. Only tests will tell. I'll get back to you once I know more.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
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Found some interesting articles…none really need much commentary, so ill do a blurb and a link today:
Diabetes and impluse control.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/02/100210194404.htm – Apparently people with type 2 diabetes have poor impulse control. I have a few issues with it…..first there ws only about 37 folks studied, hardly a "diverse" or representative group….secondly, the study, being done in Japan, had a very narrow (Asian) test group. I disagree with the methodology in this study (testing whether I push a button or not has very little to do with when i will eat a cupcake) But it is an interesting point, and the article seems careful to not called people lazy or stupid or lacking willpower. Choice quote: "This suggests the possibility that the neuropsychological deficits in response inhibition may contribute to the behavioral problems leading to chronic lifestyle-related diseases, such as type 2 diabetes"
PCOS and fatty tissue
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/02/100202101253.htm the headline reads "Fat Behaves Differently in Patients With Polycistic Ovary Syndrome"…and what they find is "Fat tissue in women with polycystic ovary syndrome produces an inadequate amount of the hormone that regulates how fats and glucose are processed, promoting increased insulin resistance and inflammation, glucose intolerance, and greater risk of diabetes and heart disease, according to a study conducted at the Center for Androgen-Related Research and Discovery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center." In other words, PCOS patients don't produce enough of the stuff that reduces inflammation (according to MEME Roth one of the "causes" of overfatness) AND the same hormone regulates insulin. Insulin, you will remember regulates sugar processing. researchers DID find that the fat tissue acted the same for fat and skinny PCOS patients, so for once this is NOT getting blamed on fatty fatty 2×4.
(Weight loss) drugs are bad…..mmmkaaaay?
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20100212/hl_nm/us_hydroxycut_liver We all remember hydroxcut….pretty fat model gets to be hot/crazy/but SKINNY model. It was pulled from the market a while ago amid liver damage allegations. "Looking at factors like patients' risk factors for liver disease and the timing of their Hydroxycut use, the researchers found that for eight of the liver-damage cases, there was a greater than 95 percent likelihood that the weight-loss aid was to blame." and this is out of 18 NEW cases that thee FDA never heard about. Personally I don't belive in weight loss drugs…they are either outright fakes, bad speed, or huge dose of diuretics or laxatives….most if not all are untested on humans or can't stand up to the trials of the FDA approval process. IF a weight loss pill worked, do you really think BIg Pharma and the medical industry in general would REALLY not make a buck off it? they would slap millions in front of the inventor and suck up that patent lickety split.


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Crawford House Museum – Home of Alstonville Plateau Historical Society
The Alstonville Plateau Historical Society was established in 2001. It aims to collect, preserve, display and provide documents and photographs of an historical nature of the Alstonville Plateau and Ballina Shire for current and future generations. It also manages historic Crawford House. The society welcomes items, stories, photographs and family histories for its records and collections. In particular it collects women's handicrafts in recognition of the fact that Crawford House was home to the five daughters of Ambrose and Olive Crawford.
Museum Opening Hours
Friday 10:00 to 4.00pm
Sunday 1.00 to 4.00pm
Other days by appointment. Groups welcome (cost $7 each for tour and tea or coffee).
Entry cost
$3.00 adults
$1.00 for school aged children
Street Address
10 Wardell Road, Alstonville NSW 2477
Follow this link for Google Maps
Correspondence & Enquiries
Hon. Secretary Alstonville Plateau Historical Society Inc, PO Box 65, Alstonville NSW 2477
Tel: (02) 6628 1829
Friday & Sunday during opening hours. At other times leave a message.
Research Centre
Opening Hours: Friday 10.00 to 4.00pm or by appointment
Society Meetings
3rd Sunday of each month at 2.00 pm (except December).
Public welcome to come and hear our guest speakers.
Community Resource Centre
10 Wardell Road, Alstonville
When the Museum is closed, the Community Resource Centre may be hired for meetings and functions. It will handle up to 15 people and has a small kitchen. Call or email for a booking.
New Donations to Crawford House
Child's Singer sewing machine with box, instructions, needles, table attachment and two dresses made by the owner as a child. Donated by Phyllis Gower who grew up at Perry's Hill, Alstonville, the machine was given to her as a birthday present. The box itself is a little gem with the words "as the twig is bent so the tree will grow" as a motto on the front. The Society thanks Phyllis for this donation which comes with a lovely story and provenance. The Society collects documents, photographs and items which have a connection to the Alstonville area and Ballina Shire. In particular it collects women's handicrafts. So if you would like to donate to the Museum please contact the office on (02) 6628 1829.


text: This channel art is inspired by some awesome geometic patterns from the middle east. The people who designed this geometry back there really knew what they were doing in terms of spirit, body and mind. These patterns are the same thing as humans relationsship are. Only simplyfied and visualized. Just ask yourself this question, if you like this pattern, then how come? There is something in you which corresponds to the pattern. As if the pattern somehow showed you, yourself from a completely different perspective. How could it be so? The answer lies within the geometry.


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MSc, 2000
University of Pisa (Italy)
PhD, 2005
University of Konstanz (Germany)
For more details, go to his research page.
The ecology section will emphasize biotic interactions within and among species, populations, and ecosystems as well as classic principles of ecology. The evolutionary section will focus on the evidence for evolution, history of evolutionary thought, and cover the major factors influencing evolutionary change. Where possible, principles of evolution and ecology will be integrated.Herpetology (BLY470)
The goal of this course is to provide an introduction on the study of amphibians and reptiles (herpetology). This course will focus on the systematics, natural history, biogeography, ecology, physiology, and conservation of herpetofauna. One of the objectives of this course is also to learn and identify representative specimens during the laboratory class.Vertebrate Form and Function (BLY 490)
This course will focus on the comparative anatomical evolution of vertebrates. Anatomical features will be analyzed in the light of their adaptation and ecological and physiological performance.
Island Biology and Conservation (BLY 490 - Summer 2017)
This 2 week summer course co-taught with Dr. Scott Glaberman will take place in the
Galapagos Islands. Students will receive classroom and field instruction on the unique
biodiversity of island systems and how this diversity has been generated by evolutionary
processes. Emerging issues in conservation and global change on islands will also
be discussed. Field trips will be taken to observe the many biological attractions
of the Galapagos Islands, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions, blue-footed
boobies, and sea turtles.
Conservation Genetics (BLY 490 - Fall 2017)
The goal of this course, open to undergraduate and graduate students, is to provide an introduction to the genetic principles involved in conservation and on the tools used to apply these principles for conservation measures. The course covers topics such as the use of genetic data to resolve taxonomic uncertainties, detect instances of species hybridization, to genetically manage threatened or captive species, detect inbreeding, loss of fitness, and loss of genetic diversity. The goals of this course are to provide students the necessary background to understand how genetic principles are applied in conservation and the tools used in conservation genetics and genomics. This course will be useful to students interested in species conservation and wildlife management, as well as to students who want to improve their understanding of population genetic and phylogenetic principles, tools, and applications. This course will include lectures and laboratories consisting in data collection and analyses.


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It's not uncommon for dealership employees to juggle many responsibilities, and somewhere on that list falls the dealership's website. As one of their greatest marketing tools, dealers need websites that can quickly adapt with their ever-changing incentives and inventory.
Automotive website technology has come a long way over the years, and it only continues to advance. As car shopping habits change, the best automotive website platforms are constantly challenged to cater to the needs of the modern consumer— not just the car dealership.
That's why PCG looks for platforms that not only offer key functions such as customization SEO features and intuitive content management systems, but also have adaptive/responsive design that pleases all online shoppers, regardless of what device they're using.
The Automotive Website Awards awards platforms that truly understand the demands of dealerships and consumers. Their easy-to-use tools let dealers effectively alter their site for the now while always pioneering technology for the future.
For full coverage on what makes these the best automotive website platforms, order the Automotive Website Awards Report.


text: Q.I keep reading about "sick buildings" and indoor air quality problems in homes. Both our kids have colds all the time, and I wonder if our house isn't causing some of their health problems. Do homeowners need to be concerned about this? A. Over the years, I've written many times about potential air quality problems in homes. Baby boomers recall their childhood when their mothers kept encouraging them to play in the fresh air outside. In today's world, where we hear constantly about outdoor air pollution concerns, lots of families keep their kids indoors as much as possible instead. As a result, people are spending more time inside. Thus the more time indoors is exposing us more to the potential indoor air concerns, especially for the young people, the elderly and people who have illnesses that keep them inside. I've seen studies that the average person spends as much as 90 percent of his or her time inside of the home and other buildings. Should we be concerned? Let's think for a minute. Leaking ductwork in a building can be bringing in dust, pollen and other pollutants from the attic, garage or the outdoors. Cleaning products kept under cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom might be releasing fumes into the air. Cooking smoke and odors from the kitchen can flow through the entire house. Pesticides around the house can contain all kinds of chemicals. Just using your vacuum cleaner can be moving pollutants from one room to another. If you're still indoors after reading the above, then consider that the Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration Institute has said that air pollution inside a home can actually be 10 times greater than the levels outdoors. So why am I telling you all this? Because this is basically an energy problem. Sealing cracks and leaks in the walls and around windows can cut down on unwanted airflow into and out of the house. Keeping the filter clean on your heating and air-conditioning equipment can keep pollutants from getting into the house. Regulating temperature and humidity levels can cut down on the growth of mold and mildew. Fans can keep the air circulating and fresher, and using a kitchen exhaust fan can get rid of stale air. Q. I read something about a "Trombe wall" being a great energy-saving home feature, and we thought it might work well in a retirement house we hope to build soon. I'm just not sure I understand exactly how this wall works. A. A Trombe wall (named for French scientist Felix Trombe) was developed in 1957 during a research project on ways that walls could store and release heat. The result is a distinctive architectural feature inside a home that helps save energy. What you do is have a south-facing masonry wall that is coated with a dark, heat-absorbing material, covered with a layer of clear glass or plastic. The wall needs to be separated from the glass by a small air space. The sun comes into the room, hits the wall and is absorbed by the dark material. Because the glass keeps the heat from escaping, the heat is conducted into the wall, and as it gets hotter, the radiant energy flows into the building. This system can work either naturally, with heat stored during the day and then flowing through the house at night when the outdoor temperatures drop, or vents can be put at the floor and ceiling levels so the heat is distributed immediately.