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Related Stories
By SW Lim
Despite Vicente del Bosque's men stumbling to a draw against Finland, les Bleus' boss is well aware of the calibre of his next opponents
France coach Didier Deschamps has admitted he is wary of Spain's attacking threat ahead of their World Cup qualifying clash on Tuesday, regardless of their recent setback against Finland.
A tame La Roja were held by Group I's bottom side in a toothless display on Thursday, but Deschamps has insisted his team need to be at the top of their game if they are to see off the world champions.
"Spain will force us to defend," the former Marseille trainer told L'Equipe.
"The best team in the world will be playing against us. Still, playing with just defence in mind will not be the solution. The game ahead will be complicated and difficult, but we cannot afford to be apprehensive.
"We will battle recognising the potential of this team."
Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Blaise Matuidi echoed his coach's comments, stating: "Deschamps reminds us not to get overly excited, but we showed that we were able to give them problems [during the 1-1 draw at Vicente Calderon in October 2012].
"We've already completed our first mission of enjoying playing together as a team."
Les Bleus currently boast a two-point advantage over their opponents in the qualifying standings, heading into the encounter at Stade de France. | {
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Full Frame
Brett Seymour: Return to Antikythera
Article Info
The 2,200-year-old Antikythera shipwreck was first discovered by Greek sponge divers in 1900. The site would eventually yield the most significant collection of Greek antiquities in history including bronze and marble statues, jewelry, furniture, luxury glassware, and the surprisingly complex Antikythera Mechanism. Diving was suspended on the 55-meter site after one diver died and two were paralyzed from the effects of decompression illness. Ever since, archaeologists and historians have speculated about what ancient treasures were left buried beneath the seafloor.
In the September of 2014 a team of international archaeologists and technical divers returned to the treacherous site for a project called “Return to Antikythera”. Using state-of-the-art technology they made a series of discoveries that prove much of the ship’s cargo is indeed still preserved beneath the sediment.
The shipwreck dates from 70 to 60 BC and is thought to have been carrying a luxury shipment of Greek riches from the coast of Asia Minor west to Rome. The team plans to return next year to excavate the site and recover more of the ship’s precious cargo on behalf of the Hellenic Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities.
As the Deputy Chief and Photographer for the National Park Service (NPS) Submerged Resources Center (SRC), Brett Seymour has been photographing the underwater world in America’s most captivating national parks for the past two decades. In addition to making a whole new dimension of the NPS available to the public, Brett specializes in documented historically significant shipwrecks and WWII relics around the world. To view more of Brett’s photographic work documenting the underwater world (among other expeditions), please visit his website. | {
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2 “Will the one who contends with the Almighty correct him?Let him who accuses God answer him!”
3 Then Job answered the Lord:
4 “I am unworthy—how can I reply to you?I put my hand over my mouth.5 I spoke once, but I have no answer—twice, but I will say no more.”
6 Then the Lord spoke to Job out of the storm:
7 “Brace yourself like a man;I will question you,and you shall answer me.
8 “Would you discredit my justice?Would you condemn me to justify yourself?9 Do you have an arm like God’s,and can your voice thunder like his?10 Then adorn yourself with glory and splendor,and clothe yourself in honor and majesty.11 Unleash the fury of your wrath,look at all who are proud and bring them low,12 look at all who are proud and humble them,crush the wicked where they stand.13 Bury them all in the dust together;shroud their faces in the grave.14 Then I myself will admit to youthat your own right hand can save you.
15 “Look at Behemoth,which I made along with youand which feeds on grass like an ox.16 What strength it has in its loins,what power in the muscles of its belly!17 Its tail sways like a cedar;the sinews of its thighs are close-knit.18 Its bones are tubes of bronze,its limbs like rods of iron.19 It ranks first among the works of God,yet its Maker can approach it with his sword.20 The hills bring it their produce,and all the wild animals play nearby.21 Under the lotus plants it lies,hidden among the reeds in the marsh.22 The lotuses conceal it in their shadow;the poplars by the stream surround it.23 A raging river does not alarm it;it is secure, though the Jordan should surge against its mouth.24 Can anyone capture it by the eyes,or trap it and pierce its nose?
41 [a]“Can you pull in Leviathan with a fishhookor tie down its tongue with a rope?2 Can you put a cord through its noseor pierce its jaw with a hook?3 Will it keep begging you for mercy?Will it speak to you with gentle words?4 Will it make an agreement with youfor you to take it as your slave for life?5 Can you make a pet of it like a birdor put it on a leash for the young women in your house?6 Will traders barter for it?Will they divide it up among the merchants?7 Can you fill its hide with harpoonsor its head with fishing spears?8 If you lay a hand on it,you will remember the struggle and never do it again!9 Any hope of subduing it is false;the mere sight of it is overpowering.10 No one is fierce enough to rouse it.Who then is able to stand against me?11 Who has a claim against me that I must pay?Everything under heaven belongs to me.
12 “I will not fail to speak of Leviathan’s limbs,its strength and its graceful form.13 Who can strip off its outer coat?Who can penetrate its double coat of armor[b]?14 Who dares open the doors of its mouth,ringed about with fearsome teeth?15 Its back has[c] rows of shieldstightly sealed together;16 each is so close to the nextthat no air can pass between.17 They are joined fast to one another;they cling together and cannot be parted.18 Its snorting throws out flashes of light;its eyes are like the rays of dawn.19 Flames stream from its mouth;sparks of fire shoot out.20 Smoke pours from its nostrilsas from a boiling pot over burning reeds.21 Its breath sets coals ablaze,and flames dart from its mouth.22 Strength resides in its neck;dismay goes before it.23 The folds of its flesh are tightly joined;they are firm and immovable.24 Its chest is hard as rock,hard as a lower millstone.25 When it rises up, the mighty are terrified;they retreat before its thrashing.26 The sword that reaches it has no effect,nor does the spear or the dart or the javelin.27 Iron it treats like strawand bronze like rotten wood.28 Arrows do not make it flee;slingstones are like chaff to it.29 A club seems to it but a piece of straw;it laughs at the rattling of the lance.30 Its undersides are jagged potsherds,leaving a trail in the mud like a threshing sledge.31 It makes the depths churn like a boiling caldronand stirs up the sea like a pot of ointment.32 It leaves a glistening wake behind it;one would think the deep had white hair.33 Nothing on earth is its equal—a creature without fear.34 It looks down on all that are haughty;it is king over all that are proud.”
Job
42 Then Job replied to the Lord:
2 “I know that you can do all things;no purpose of yours can be thwarted.3 You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’Surely I spoke of things I did not understand,things too wonderful for me to know.
4 “You said, ‘Listen now, and I will speak;I will question you,and you shall answer me.’5 My ears had heard of youbut now my eyes have seen you.6 Therefore I despise myselfand repent in dust and ashes.”
Epilogue
7 After the Lord had said these things to Job, he said to Eliphaz the Temanite, “I am angry with you and your two friends, because you have not spoken the truth about me, as my servant Job has.8 So now take seven bulls and seven rams and go to my servant Job and sacrifice a burnt offering for yourselves. My servant Job will pray for you, and I will accept his prayer and not deal with you according to your folly. You have not spoken the truth about me, as my servant Job has.”9 So Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite did what the Lord told them; and the Lord accepted Job’s prayer.
10 After Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before.11 All his brothers and sisters and everyone who had known him before came and ate with him in his house. They comforted and consoled him over all the trouble the Lord had brought on him, and each one gave him a piece of silver[d] and a gold ring.
12 The Lord blessed the latter part of Job’s life more than the former part. He had fourteen thousand sheep, six thousand camels, a thousand yoke of oxen and a thousand donkeys.13 And he also had seven sons and three daughters.14 The first daughter he named Jemimah, the second Keziah and the third Keren-Happuch.15 Nowhere in all the land were there found women as beautiful as Job’s daughters, and their father granted them an inheritance along with their brothers.
16 After this, Job lived a hundred and forty years; he saw his children and their children to the fourth generation.17 And so Job died, an old man and full of years.
The Ministry of Reconciliation
11 Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade others. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience.12 We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart.13 If we are “out of our mind,” as some say, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you.14 For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
16 So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer.17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here!18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation:19 that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.20 We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.21 God made him who had no sin to be sin[b] for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
For the director of music. To the tune of “Lilies.” Of the Sons of Korah. A maskil.[b] A wedding song.
1 My heart is stirred by a noble themeas I recite my verses for the king;my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer.
2 You are the most excellent of menand your lips have been anointed with grace,since God has blessed you forever.
3 Gird your sword on your side, you mighty one;clothe yourself with splendor and majesty.4 In your majesty ride forth victoriouslyin the cause of truth, humility and justice;let your right hand achieve awesome deeds.5 Let your sharp arrows pierce the hearts of the king’s enemies;let the nations fall beneath your feet.6 Your throne, O God,[c] will last for ever and ever;a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom.7 You love righteousness and hate wickedness;therefore God, your God, has set you above your companionsby anointing you with the oil of joy.8 All your robes are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia;from palaces adorned with ivorythe music of the strings makes you glad.9 Daughters of kings are among your honored women;at your right hand is the royal bride in gold of Ophir.
10 Listen, daughter, and pay careful attention:Forget your people and your father’s house.11 Let the king be enthralled by your beauty;honor him, for he is your lord.12 The city of Tyre will come with a gift,[d]people of wealth will seek your favor.13 All glorious is the princess within her chamber;her gown is interwoven with gold.14 In embroidered garments she is led to the king;her virgin companions follow her—those brought to be with her.15 Led in with joy and gladness,they enter the palace of the king.
16 Your sons will take the place of your fathers;you will make them princes throughout the land.
17 I will perpetuate your memory through all generations;therefore the nations will praise you for ever and ever.
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Appeal to spite:
When an appeal to bitterness or spite towards the proponents of an opposing position is used in an attempt to make or bolster an argument.
If you think we should bailout that bank, consider that the incompetent traders who created this financial fiasco will be celebrating with champagne while we, the common folk, will be paying even higher taxes.
Notes
What some might call an appeal to spite others might call an appeal to injustice, so this fallacy can be quite fuzzy.
Case Study One
“Why should we introduce tax incentives for innovation when those who successfully innovate will only flaunt their newly-acquired wealth in front of the rest of us?” | {
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Facebook and Spotify in a tree. K-I-S-S-I-N-G.
30/05/2011
You can do so much in Facebook these days - read news, look at photos, connect to your favourite brands - there's not many worlds the social network has left to conquer. But there is one - music. Facebook's music offering is still pretty spotty, with even bands' public pages lacking the music features Myspace offers.
But that could be about to change. Reports suggest that Facebook has struck a deal with Spotify, everyone sane's favourite music service, to provide music within the site. The details are spotty, but it seems Spotify will power a streaming music service that works within the site - unlike the current Spotify service, which requires you to launch an application.
We reckon this could turn out to be something very simple - perhaps the ability to post a Spotify link and have it play within Facebook, much as you can with YouTube links. But it could be something more substantial. Apparently it will launch in the next few weeks, so as soon as we know more, we'll let you know. | {
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How to Succeed on Your Current Job
You’ll have heard of “How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying”, the famous 1940s spoof book by Dale Carnegie. In practice, in the 21st century, success is something you need to work at. You also need to understand your own goals.
You can use your current job as the starting point for your success without new resume writing for finding new job. Why not use it as a promotional option, a way of expanding your skill set, or a base for exploring your career options?
How you do a job has a lot to do with whether you succeed or not.
How to Succeed in a Job, Your Way
The best way to succeed is through your own initiatives:
Motivation matters. Focus on your own goals. Don’t get lost in a boring, unproductive wasteland of frustration and disappointments. Why should you? You can use any job to further your goals and aspirations. Some of the world’s richest and most successful people came from the hard grind, low wage jobs and garages of their environments.
Avoid the office warfare. Office politics can be very nasty. Friendships and working relationships can be destroyed. Don’t get involved in damaging, destructive situations. Stay neutral to dodge the bullets from both sides.
Keep your work moving and keep your work standards high. Never mind waiting for performance reviews; set some performance goals for yourself. You’ll be surprised how well you can manage yourself. You’ll also discover that you can do a very good job when you raise the bar for yourself.
Network, network, and network. Keeping in mind the issues of office politics, do some productive networking in the workplace. You can create some great, truly positive relationships. These are real relationships, valuable in their own right as good personal and professional associations.
Defining Success in a Job
If how to succeed in a job without your resume editing for the applying a new job is important, “navigating” your success is also critical. Success needs to be defined. What are your aspirations? Where do you want to go in your career?
Goal setting can be extremely productive as a brainstorming exercise. This is a subject you need to consider carefully. Never mind the clichés; what do you want to do with your career and your personal goals? What are your real drivers?
This is leading to one basic equation:
Your job can become the means to meet your goals.
All you need to do is make it happen.
Success in your job will deliver the means for achieving your big picture of success.
Happiness and Success
You can also use a very reliable DIY measure of success to keep yourself on track to your goals. Happiness in your job is a very good, and most importantly, reliable, indicator. This is “how to succeed in a job” in practice. You can already guess at a few of your own “How to Succeed at Your Job” options. You know what to do and how to do it.
So – Crank up your job to kickstart your career and get going! You’ll love it! For more information about succeeding at your job, see this link.
Resume Writing Formats
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Testimonials
Jacqueline, USA
Hi Sandy,
Thank you for taking the time to speak with me as well today. I appreciate it, truly.
The resume, cover letter, and follow-up letter work for me.
Thank you for taking the time to revise and update the areas we discussed today. | {
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A gorgeous set of new tracks by the brilliant composer and multi-instrumentalist EYVIND KANG. It took him a decade and a half to revisit the vibe concocted on his masterpiece from 2001, Live Low To The Earth In The Iron Age, but the wait was worth it. It features an array of spiritually intoxicating instrumentation: tamboura, electric guitar, organ, trumpet, oboe, trombone, and Korean traditional instruments. Eyvind Kang on Plainlight: "In 2002 I wanted to make a kind of sequel to my first solo record on Abduction, Live Low To The Earth In The Iron Age. I found that the 'weight' of sounds seemed to evaporate the compositions. The last thing I wanted to make was a traditional shoegaze recording. 15 years later, I had a strange dream: a voice said 'Because a plainlight has fallen in Heaven, heartbreak would cease.' This statement then became a kind of guiding image and method. Thus, with Korean traditional instruments playing the ostinato and drone, things fell into place. I would like to thank all the musicians, Randall Dunn, Alan Bishop, and each and every listener." Limited edition, one-time pressing; Edition of 400. | {
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Mayanagar.com is an end-to-end entertainment portal, which gives
users information about latest movies, trailers, film events with their videos, film star interviews, gossips
across the film world and exclusive photo, audio & video contents glamorized by celebrities & a...... | {
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
} |
Heritage and Cultural Learning Hub transcript
Dr Richard Clay, Dr Henry Chapman and Professor Vince Gaffney discuss their work into the Heritage and Cultural Learning Hub initiative within the College of Arts and Law at the University of Birmingham.
S1: My research [is] in art history but my colleagues, Henry and Vincent, are actually both archaeologists and especially work in visualisation; so individually our research is really, really different but together we’re working on the project, which is the Heritage and Cultural Learning Hub, with academics from other disciplines as well. And on that project, our research is really focused around some really innovative new technology, which is called ‘multi-touch technology’. So imagine an iPhone the size of a table and then you’ve got a multi-touch table. Image it the size of a wall and you’ve got a multi-touch wall – but also you end up with text which is at different levels of meaning because a child approaching a touch table doesn’t want to know the same things as say a professor approaching a touch table.
S2: What’s going to happen, I think, in the future is through increased digitalisation: both two-dimensional scanning of text, that kind of thing, but also three-dimensional models of objects, museum objects for example, by actually having these archives; then if you visit the museum, you see the actual physical item, the authentic item – but then you can compare it yourself to all sorts of other items from around the world, potentially.
S3: 90% or more of our cultural resource is inaccessible. It’s in store rooms, it’s in archives, which very few people can get access to. My principle work is actually in the area of looking at the vast prehistoric landscapes, which underlie the North Sea. It used to be dry land at one point in time and we’ve been looking at that, using cutting-edge technologies, which can see beneath the water, beneath the sediments, over huge areas. Now that has something to tell us about, for instance, climate change. This was 8,000–10,000 years ago; the last time that humans were impacted. Society needs to know something now about how our current climate is changing and how it might have affected us in the past – and how it will affect us in the future.
S4: The actual interfaces we’re going to be creating through the Heritage and Cultural Learning Hub are going to be providing the avenue whereby people can access these large volumes of data in interactive ways, in collaborative ways; so many researchers can work together or many school children can work together. I think the use for single resource, a single digital resource, to actually satisfy all those different users, is just really exciting.
S5: The City’s foundations are so sound for this kind of cross-sector work that all of the partners in the region who are speaking to each other about the Hub, all think that together we can do projects initially that make Birmingham a shop window for the world. | {
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315 posts by
Patrick Nohe
Hashed Out's Editor-in-Chief started his career as a beat reporter and columnist for the Miami Herald before moving into the cybersecurity industry a few years ago. He also designs the visuals for Hashed Out and serves as the Content Manager for The SSL Store™. | {
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Owls
Related Galleries
Northern Saw-whet owl banding at Foreman’s Branch Bird Observatory has been extremely successful this fall, with more than 250 birds banded to date. On November 15, several owls were examined and documented.
Members of the family Paridae, chickadees and titmice are small perching birds with strong feet. They also have short thin bills used for gleaning insects and seeds. Both nest in cavities and will sometimes use bird boxes. | {
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A congressional calamity: Mired in allegations
By Paul M. Weyrich
web posted December 19, 2005
I am second to none in my admiration for Congressman Tom
DeLay (R-TX) and what he has done with that unruly crew
known as the House Republican Conference. Now DeLay,
awaiting a trial on money-laundering in Texas, is no longer
Majority Leader, at least for now. His position as Majority
Leader was assumed by House Majority Whip Roy Blunt (R-
MO).
To be blunt about it (pun intended), the Congressman from
Missouri is getting a bum rap. Blunt has had problems getting
some bills through the House. One appropriations bill was
defeated and another bill was pulled from the calendar when, at
the last minute, it was clear that the votes were not there to pass
it.
Blunt, it is rumored, doesn't have the clout that DeLay had and
thus can't keep his people together to pass these bills. Although
Blunt is a good friend, were the rumor true I would admit it. It is
not true. Circumstances have changed. That is why Blunt
appears to be struggling and the DeLay machine appears to have
rolled along.
From 1995, when DeLay became Majority Whip, to the
indictment earlier this year, when DeLay stepped down from the
Leadership, DeLay always secured some Democratic votes.
Once he complained that the Democratic Caucus so pressured
its Members to vote party line that he counted only seven
Democratic defectors voting with the Republicans. Regularly
over 20 Democrats would vote with DeLay. Sometimes on
controversial measures the count was much higher. That masked
Republican defectors to the Democrats. On the Arctic National
Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) vote, for example, an equivalent
number of Republicans and Democrats defected. ANWR easily
was passed because Democrats who voted for ANWR
balanced the defections of more than 20 Republicans who
opposed ANWR.
Were you to be on Capitol Hill these days you would understand
that Democrats now believe they will control the 110th
Congress. I have no proof, but I am willing to wager that the
Democratic Leadership has warned the defectors that if they
want to chair subcommittees or committees in 2007 or if they
want to remain on certain key committees they now had better
vote with the Democratic Leadership.
Suddenly Blunt finds himself having to get through tough
measures, such as the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 cutting $50
billion in spending, with only Republican votes. Yes, Republicans
control the House 232 to 202, with one Independent who is a
Socialist voting with the Democrats. Subtract 20 Republicans,
add zero Democrats and the magic 218 majority just isn't there.
Blaming Blunt for this situation is patently unfair. If Blunt had
polls showing that the public loved the Republican Majority and
wanted to return it, Blunt could count the same number of
Democratic votes which DeLay always received. Unfortunately
for Blunt Republican and Democratic polls indicate that the
public thinks ill of Congress, blames Republicans and is willing to
put Democrats back in power. That may change in 11 months
but now Blunt must deal with these matters.
After a very tough month, that the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005
was passed, albeit by a few votes and without ANWR. Other
measures have been passed as well. Blunt remains standing and
is preparing for the new year. DeLay meanwhile has asked for a
speedy trial. Were DeLay to stand trial early in January and if, as
many expect, were he to be acquitted of money-laundering
charges, he perhaps could avoid a new leadership election and
resume his post as Majority Leader. Clearly were the trial to
drag on there would be a new leadership election and DeLay
would be unable to return to his leadership post even if the jury
found him not guilty.
Some Republicans are alleged to want a new leadership election
regardless of DeLay's fate in court. That is because of a looming
scandal of potential mammoth proportion, which centers upon
lobbyist Jack Abramoff. Abramoff is said to have defrauded
several American Indian tribes which operate casinos of millions
of dollars while lobbying Congress on their behalf. While
lobbying, Abramoff took some Members of Congress on some
pretty fancy trips, allegedly usually paid for by a 501(c)(3)
organization, which Abramoff would reimburse for the trips. The
scandal is under investigation by Senator John S. McCain, III
(R-AZ), chairman of Senate Select Committee on Indian Affairs,
as well as by the Justice Department.
One source who appears to be knowledgeable about the
investigation alleges that eight Members of Congress are
involved in the scandal and that the number likely will grow
higher. Congressman Robert W. ("Bob") Ney (R-OH) has been
told by the Justice Department that he is a target of their
investigation and could be in legal jeopardy. Translated: He may
be indicted. DeLay's name has been linked to the entire
investigation. His involvement is not known publicly.
Members of Congress fear this scandal far more than they fear
immigration, profligate spending or the Iraqi War. Democrats
already have advanced the 2006 theme that Republicans have
created "a culture of corruption" in Washington. When, in an
unrelated scandal, Congressman Randy ("Duke") Cunningham
(R-CA) resigned because he accepted $2.4 million in bribes
from defense contractors, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi
(D-CA), Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard B.
Dean,III, M.D. were among those who inundated the media with
the "culture of corruption" theme.
Were it to be disclosed that DeLay is more involved with
Abramoff than originally had been thought there is a fair
possibility that members would insist upon a new leadership
election, in part to distance themselves from DeLay. The Justice
Department evidently now has as a witness a former Abramoff
employee who, in order to save his own skin, may sing, sing,
sing. Whether he will be truthful when singing is another story.
The prosecutorial system sometimes provides a potential witness
an incentive to lie. Former California State Assembly Leader Pat
Nolan was jailed based upon testimony from a single staff
member who claimed she had witnessed his changing his vote in
exchange for a bribe. Other witnesses claimed the opposite. The
frightened lady was told that she would not see her young
children graduate from college if she did not testify as the
prosecution wished.
Members don't know what will become of the Abramoff scandal
but they fear the worst. For that reason, poor DeLay, even were
he fresh from a possible acquittal in Texas, might not return as
Majority Leader.
Some Democrats also are involved in this scandal. That doesn't
bother the Democratic Leadership. They will push the "culture of
corruption" theme anyway, knowing that the old line media will
give them coverage.
There is hope. Rush Limbaugh continues to add listeners. Sean
Hannity just has added his 500th station. Newsmax.com now
attracts 2.4 million readers a day. Locally over a thousand
conservative radio talk show hosts and various conservative web
sites, a number of which carry this commentary, regularly are
gaining new listeners.
The New Media competes with the Old Media so the truth
about this scandal may be balanced. The real problem is:
Congress is involved in too much of the nation's business. Human
nature is weak. Temptations abound. There is more corruption in
Washington than formerly because there is much more
temptation. Yes, there is a culture of corruption. But it isn't
members taking golf outings. It is the billions of taxpayer money
which Congress should not be spending. As is often the case,
when all is said and done, the wrong people may go to jail.
Paul M. Weyrich is the Chairman and CEO of the Free
Congress Foundation (www.freecongress.org/)
Enter Stage Right -- http://www.enterstageright.com | {
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The certified professionals of this family-owned-and operated-business will wash any spiders out, including the venomous black widow, and the other two most common spiders of the area: the hobo and yellow sack.
• $45 ($92 value) for an interior and exterior spider treatment for up to 2,000 sq. ft.
• Crew will travel within a 20-mile radius of Spokane
• Specialists have been serving the area for more than a decade | {
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College Prefessors Sermon Illustrations
College Prefessors Sermon Illustrations
The child of an English professor rushed into the room, reports NBC-TV's Johnny Carson, shouting, "Daddy, the baby has fell out of the window." The professor replied: "'Fallen,' you mean. Quick, run for the doctor."—T. O. White
A group of professional men had gathered in the lobby of a hotel where a banquet was being given, and they proceeded to make themselves known to each other.
"My name is Rodale," said one extending his hand. "I'm a painter, work in water colors, chiefly."
"I'm particularly happy to know you," replied the other. "I'm an artist, too. I work in bronze."
"Now, isn't that a coincidence?" chimed in a third "I happen to be a sculptor, I work in marble"
Then a quiet fellow, bespectacled and with a short beard, who had been inclined to keep apart, stepped up and extended his hand. "Glad to make the acquaintance of you gentlemen," he said, "for I have a common interest with you. I work in ivory. I'm a college professor."—The Bronze
Advice to new college faculty member: "You're likely to be nervous at first, but don't let it upset you. I, too, was frustrated, bewildered, and subdued. It works like this, so don't worry: The first year you're on the staff, you will ask yourself 'what am I doing here?' After a while you will have another question, `what are the rest of 'em doing here?'"
Now here, it seems, we have a prof
Who is a bit inclined to scoff,
A man of erudition vast
Who's also an iconoclast.
He says, while peering through his glasses,
That students ought to cut more classes,
He seems in earnest, sounds devoted,
And knows darned well that he'll be quoted.
Yes, Students, if they would succeed,
Should simply get a book and read,
Not waste their time, or think they're working,
With lectures long and dull and irking.
Professor, you are quite a card,
Held high in popular regard.
We'll think of you, with some enjoyment,
When you are looking for employment.—Quote
It should be the chief aim of a university professor to exhibit himself in his own true character—that is an ignorant man think-ing, actively utilizing his small share of knowledge.—Alfred North Whitehead
A theory is better than money in the bank. You can't get ahead in this profession unless you publish a theory—any theory.—Andrew Halpin, Administrative Theory in Education
The professor returned to his classroom after grading all the latest examination papers. He requested that the students sit down.
"If you all stood up now, it is conceivable that you might form a circle—in which case I could be arrested for maintaining a dope ring."—Santa Fe Magazine
Dinner guest: "Will you pass the nuts, professor?"
Absent-minded professor: "I suppose so, but they should flunk."—The Lookout
"So you use three pairs of glasses, Professor?"
"Yes, one pair for long sight, one pair for short sight, and the third to look for the other two."—The Lookout
The professor at a small college was trying to obtain a raise but the local farmers on the committee were solidly against it. They couldn't understand why the college should pay him more for just talking a few hours a week.
Then, a faculty representative spoke forth, "Gentlemen, a college professor is a little like a bull. It's not the amount of time he spends. It's the importance of what he does!"—Inspiration
A professor of law once advised his students: "When you're fighting a case, if you have the facts on your side, hammer them into the jury. If you have the law on your side, hammer it into the judge."
"But, sir, what if you have neither the facts nor the law?" inquired one student.
"Then," answered the professor, "hammer the table!"
In today's economy more than one college professor has one big financial problem—running out of money before running out of month.—T. O. Winn
News Item—The dean of women at an Eastern college told the student body "the president and I have decided to stop necking on the campus." ( And it's about time, too.)
Professor of English to a sophomore student: "Your vocabulary is mean and impoverished, but entirely adequate to express your thoughts."—Kreolite News
The professor approached the men's hat area of a bargain basement in Chicago. There were three tables of unboxed sub-perfect pieces of headgear in complete disarray. A variety of would-be customers were putting on, taking off the bargain priced hats.
Finally, the professor's eye fell on a few he decided to try on for size. First at one table, then the other, he tried hats which were too small. All at once the ludicrous thought occurred to him, "What if I left my own hat on a table and someone buys it." Frantically, he tried to recall where he had placed it. When he finally remembered the depositary, sure enough, there it was being tried on along with the others. He retrieved it before it was sold. I know, because I was the professor.
If only I had bought my own hat I could have then been called an absolutely absent-minded professor.—M. Dale Baughman | {
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Harman QLED Auto is a new generation of in-car display which uses technology already found in Samsung's premium televisions. Just in case you're new to the tech, QLED stands for Quantum Dot Light-Emitting Diode and you can read everything there is to know about it on our dedicated guide to QLED TV.
Harman's QLED screens will use direct-lit backlight technology with local dimming - Harman claims this will result in increased power savings which, in turn, will help to improve the range and efficiency of electric vehicles.
The partnership will also see Harman offer transparent and flexible OLED displays to car manufacturers. Samsung's OLED displays are used throughout the company's hugely successful range of Galaxy smartphones, including the S8 and Note 8, so it makes sense for Samsung to share this technology with Harman on the back of their relationship.
Touchscreen displays are such an integral part of the in-car experience and if Samsung can offer an experience closer to its mobile phones, then it can only be a good thing for the end user.
At CES 2018, Harman has also unveiled Configurable Entertainment, an in-car solution developed on the company's AudioworX platform. AudioworX is an open platform which allows manufacturers and OEMs to design and implement new user experiences.
Configurable Entertainment allows different passengers to personalise their in-car experiences even though they're in the same space. You could be listening to a concert using audio provided by JBL, while another passenger could be listening to audio with a Harman Kardon character.
How? The proposed system uses a combination of audio processing and visual changes, so in-car speakers can alter their shape and sonic characteristics on demand.
It's an interesting concept and we'll be sure to head over to the Harman stage to report back on both of these technologies in action. | {
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In the Spring of 91 I was on the school board attending a high school drama performance at the Win Granlund Performing Arts Center in Port Orchard. During intermission I became engaged in conversation – lots of people wanted my ear in those days – so lights were blinking and I had yet to make it to the men’s room.
As I entered I thought it a bit strange that the urinal was one big round basin face off with a running spray, but thought nothing of it as I headed for the center booth.As I was seated there gathering my thoughts I heard the approach of a highly pitched trio of voices. As they entered I realized I had accidentally entered the women’s zone. Sitting there as a truly captive audience I debated whether to raise my large feet to hide my presence or to keep them planted so no one would knock at the door. It was agonizing as I visualized newspaper headlines that would surely result from my discovery.Fortunately the women were only focused on the mirror and soon left.I was able to sneak out right after and suffered no consequences other than a firmly placed resolution to c a r e f u l l y read all restroom signs in the future. | {
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Orange County mayoral candidate Matthew Falconer owes $64,000 in delinquent property taxes to Osceola and Lee counties, records show, but the commercial real-estate investor said Friday he was unaware of any unpaid tax bills.
"If there is a problem, this is the first I've heard of it," said Falconer, adding that bank lenders and his office handle "hundreds of mortgage and tax payments" for him each year. "We'll check into it."
The properties in question are a Vine Street strip mall in Kissimmee assessed at $1.7 million in 2009, with $42,853 in taxes owed, and vacant land in Fort Myers assessed at $1.1 million, with $21,122 owed in 2009 taxes.
Falconer, who has campaigned on the promise of fiscal conservatism, drew fire from opponent Teresa Jacobs, who asked if heis "really running because he cares about public service or because he needs a job?"
The questions about Falconer's finances emerged Friday amid the final run of campaigning for Central Florida's most powerful office.
Falconer faces fellow Republican Jacobs, and Democratic Commissioners Linda Stewart and Bill Segal in Tuesday's nonpartisan primary. If no candidate wins more than 50 percent of the vote, the top two finishers would go on to a Nov. 2 run-off.
Falconer, Jacobs and Segal took part in a candidates' forum Friday at the downtown Citrus Club that Stewart did not attend. Segal and Stewart declined to comment on Falconer's tax bill.
No outside groups or candidates can afford — or have been willing to reveal — polling for the race, leaving a sense among political experts that the top two slots were still up for grabs.
"I really can not predict any of this," said county GOP party Chairman Lew Oliver.
Much of the late jockeying involved attack ads or efforts by third-party groups backing Segal.
For instance, Segal blasted Stewart in his ads for proposing a nickel gas tax hike to help pay for the Lynx bus system. And later, a third-party group called Concerned Citizens of Orange County sent out mailers that referred to a 2003 quote where Stewart said such a hike "can't be that bad."
Stewart said gasoline was less than $2 a gallon at the time of the quote, and that Segal backed sales tax hike for transportation that year. "I don't think it has hurt me, but we don't even know who's behind it," she said.
Concerned Citizens is led by a Cory Jones, a Segal fundraiser, and county records show it raised $39,000 in five days. Most of that cash came from real-estate interests, such as $5,000 from Westgate Resorts, a timeshare company owned by David Siegel.
The same group made recorded calls to voters telling them Jacobs was a lobbyist with a conflict of interest issue with her current employer, Tindale-Oliver & Associates. The company was awarded a 2005 contract that all commissioners voted for then, including Segal and Jacobs.
Segal's camp has said it was inappropriate for Jacobs to later go to work for the company. Segal spokesman Josh Wilson said the company's website initially touted Jacobs' political skills as justification for labeling her a lobbyist.
"If a lobbyist is not one who uses political skills, then who does?" said Wilson.
But Jacobs said there is no conflict, andshe actually works as an analyst for Tindale. She called the ads "desperate."
For her part, Jacobs dubbed Segal and Falconer the "Dangerous Duo" in a mailer, criticizing Segal's attendance at men-only parties co-organized by a lobbyist, and for his failure to disclose business partners and voting conflicts. The ad chides Falconer for failing to release tax records, for rarely voting and for leaving the debt his businesses carry largely off his financial disclosure forms.
In the final tally, Jacobs raised $217,000 for the primary, spending $180,000, records show. Stewart raised $140,000, and spent $134,000. Falconer's totals were not available, but he's run a self-financed campaign.
Segal raised more than all of his foes combined: $775,000, with all but $34,000 of it spent in the primary. Another pro-Segal group, the Coalition for Excellence in Regional Leadership, raised $91,050 in the final weeks, for a total of $155,550. Universal Orlando Resort ($10,000) and SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment ($7,000) were among the bigger late contributors. | {
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Shadow in Serenity
Publisher's Summary
Carny Sullivan grew up in the zany world of a traveling carnival. Quaint and peaceful Serenity, Texas, has given her a home, a life, and a child. Logan Brisco is the smoothest, slickest, handsomest man Serenity has ever seen. But Carny Sullivan knows a con artist when she sees one—and she’s seen plenty, starting with her father. As far as Carny Sullivan can tell, she’s the only one in town who has his number. Because from his Italian shoes to his movie-actor smile, Logan has the rest of the town snowed.
Carny is determined to reveal Brisco’s selfish intentions before his promise to the townspeople for a cut in a giant amusement park sucks Serenity dry. Yet as much as she hates his winning ways, there is a man behind that suave smile, a man who may win her heart against her will. Shadow in Serenity is a modern-day Music Man, penned by a Christy Award-winning, New York Times best-selling author.
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BUFFALO, N.Y. -- The Providence College Friars defeated Canisius College, 13-8, on Sunday, April 5 in men's lacrosse action at Buffalo, N.Y. Freshman Jeff Merklinger led the Friar offense with a career high five goals.
Providence trailed, 6-5, at halftime, but fought back with eight goals over the last 30 minutes, including four unanswered tallies in the third quarter to earn the win. | {
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Should food security be a priority for the EU?
August was the warmest ever recorded globally, as was every single month since October 2015. It will not take long for these records to become the norm, and this will tremendously challenge food provision for everyone on the planet. Each additional Celsius degree in global mean temperature will reduce wheat yield by about 5%. While we struggle to take action for limiting global warming by the end of the century to 2°C above preindustrial levels, business as usual scenarios come closer to +5 °C.
However, we lack good and actionable knowledge on this perfect storm in the making. Despite the heat, world wheat production should hit a new record high in 2016, but EU production is expected to be 10% lower than last year. In France, this drop should be around 25-30% and one has to go back to 1983 to find yields equally low. Explanations indeed now point to weather as a large contributor. But underlying mechanisms were poorly anticipated by forecasts and are poorly addressed in climate change impacts research.
Second, many blind spots remain. For example, livestock has a tremendous share in the carbon footprint of agriculture, but also a high nutritional and cultural value. Yet, livestock were not even mentioned once in the summary for policymakers of the last IPCC report dedicated to impacts and adaptation. Heat stress reduces animal production, and increases greenhouse gas emissions per unit of product. In addition, a lower share of animal products in our diet could dramatically reduce pollution and food insecurity. However, we don’t understand well consumers’ preferences in that respect, and how they can be translated in actionable policies.
How can we generate adequate knowledge in time while climate is changing? To be able to forecast yields and prevent dramatic price swings like the 2008 food crisis? To avoid bad surprises due to large missing knowledge, like the livestock question?
In short: it will take far more research to answer these questions—and that means a major increase in funding.
I recently presented two studies by our team at a scientific conference in Germany, which was organized by a European network of agricultural research scientists (MACSUR). One was a literature review on how to estimate the consequences of heat stress on livestock at a global scale. The other one presented scenarios on future food security in Europe, generated in a way that delivers useful knowledge for stakeholders. The MACSUR network was funded as a knowledge hub to foster interactions between research institutes of European countries. In many countries, the funding covered travels and workshops, not new research. Of course, nowadays researchers have to compete for funding to do actual research.
So let’s play the game. The MACSUR network is now aiming at a ‘Future and Emerging Technologies Flagship’, the biggest type of EU funding: 1 billion Euros over 10 years for hundreds of researchers. Recent examples include the Human Brain Project, the Graphene Flagship, and the Quantum Technology Flagship. We are trying to get one on modeling food security under climate change.
Such a project could leapfrog our ability to deal with climate change, a major societal challenge Europe is confronted with (one of the two requirements for FET Flagship funding). The other requirement gave us a hard time at first sight: generating technological innovation, growth and jobs in Europe -but one just needs the right lens. First, agriculture already sustains about 44 million jobs in the EU and this will increase if we are serious about reducing the carbon content of our economy. Second, data now flows at an unprecedented speed (aka, big data). Think about the amount of data acquired with Pokemon Go, and imagine we would harness such concept for science through crowdsourcing and citizen-based science. With such data, agricultural forecasts would perform much better. Similarly, light drones and connected devices will likely open a new era for farm management. Third, we need models that translate big data into knowledge, and not only for the agricultural sector. Similarly, models can also be powerful tools to confront views and could trigger large social innovation.
To get this funding, we need support from a lot of people. The Graphene project claimed support from than 3500 actors, from citizens to industrial players in Europe. We have until end of November to reach 3500 votes, at least. If you think EU should give food security under climate change the same importance as improving the understanding of the human brain, or developing quantum computers, we need you. This will simply never happen without you! Please help us out with two simple actions:
Go the proposal, and vote for/comment it (see instructions, please highlight the potential for concrete innovations)! | {
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Build bulletproof, scalable solutions with Blitz - a simple and fun service for load testing web apps and APIs in the cloud. Blitz offers powerful yet simple capabilities including continuous monitoring, performance testing and remediation. Blitz enables you to instantly burst up to 50,000 concurrent users against your app in seconds from multiple points of presence around the world.
Blitz's
Features
Complex transactions- Whether you want to test a web page or a complex transaction , Blitz makes it easy for you to determine the number of users you can support.
Detailed feedback- Get detailed statistics and feedback in real time, and in plain English
Plugins- With our extension for Chrome or add-on for Firefox , just navigating to a webpage and run a performance test. Blitz takes care of the cookies, authentication and all the other underlying complexities.
Automation- With the Ruby GEM and full integration with Continuous Integration servers like Atlassian's Bamboo CI server, automated performance testing can ensure that no code push can cause a poor experience for your users.
Remediation- Making changes to a web page, application or API can have unintended consequences. Blitz can extract information from your monitoring solution like Google Analytics®, etc. and create a load test to verify the fix. | {
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Bronze Nazareth - Michigan Rain Lyrics
[Chorus: ~Bronze Nazareth~]
I smoke more bone to embrace through my brain the pain*
But it stays consistent like 'Michigan Rain'
I light an L and blow to maintain to the sane
But it stays consistent like 'Michigan Rain'
[Bronze Nazareth:]
Word, I blow a haze cloud thinking about my way out
And grey clouds got me looking up from my ways down
I shaved thoughts and misses from grave clowns
Throw up prayers like half poured shots, but still it rains down
Everyday heavier, swim now or never
On my block is shot, let up with dead ones
Whose head hung, jailed and heads spun
Mind on his money, got it pawned on his grandma's best rug
Did his best to feed his son, broke back and arms slung
Nobodies seeing light, dog, harms overcome
Me I'm seeing broken houses, silent war songs
Baseheads in Hell when fiends sing the chorus long
To the melody of felonies, no Sun in the ozone
Running back and forth on blunts for build the cyclone
Niggas know me for my nine hold, how my mind mould
Time slow, page his time with sign shown
The pain is felt to marrow of the bone
Some cracked sidewalk where many failed to grow
[Repeat Chorus:]
[Bronze Nazareth:]
Word, I smoke a tree house tryna get my seed out
Sky turning black, mean good weather to see now
I bleed the blood of the shaky youth forsaking truth
Elevate prayers with weed smoke that never come true
It turns to sludge too, hailing like they do
Gandhi on my own block, marijuana float like Ali
We soak up the Sun, approach it wisely
Money on my mind, got me signing my next mic piece
Doing my best to proceed in dark where the grime lead
Always see in dark, no lights shown to radiate it
I keep on seeing if he's reaching, eyes widely dilated
Attempting to remember that these my people where ______
Heads running the bases like America Park, you see the traces
They know I got the buckshot waiting, invading the building
Time flies, life's ironic like brave villains
The pain is felt to the quarter main vein
Same broken dreams and many always failed to obtain | {
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} |
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MULTIPACK SPORT DAY FORMULA is a multi-vitamin complex designed for athletes, enriched with herbal extracts with stimulating properties and Q10 coenzyme. Contains essential vitamins which contribute to normal energy production and aid the functioning of the nervous system. MULTIPACK SPORT DAY FORMULA also contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress and supports normal functioning of the immune system during intense
MULTIPACK SPORT NIGHT FORMULA is a mineral complex designed for athletes, enriched with natural precursors of serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid – ingredients important for the quality of sleep. The formula also contains magnesium which contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system, thus reducing tiredness and fatigue. The product provides a double amount of zinc which is especially important for men as it contributes to the maintenance of normal testosterone levels in the blood and sexual potency. MULTIPACK SPORT NIGHT FORMULA contains ingredients supporting normal DNA synthesis and metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates and fats.
MULTIPACK SPORT DAY FORMULA is a multi-vitamin complex designed for athletes, enriched with herbal extracts with stimulating properties and Q10 coenzyme. Contains essential vitamins which contribute to normal energy production and aid the functioning of the nervous system. MULTIPACK SPORT DAY FORMULA also contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress and supports normal functioning of the immune system during intense
MULTIPACK SPORT NIGHT FORMULA is a mineral complex designed for athletes, enriched with natural precursors of serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid – ingredients important for the quality of sleep. The formula also contains magnesium which contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system, thus reducing tiredness and fatigue. The product provides a double amount of zinc which is especially important for men as it contributes to the maintenance of normal testosterone levels in the blood and sexual potency. MULTIPACK SPORT NIGHT FORMULA contains ingredients supporting normal DNA synthesis and metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates and fats.
Directions for use
Dosage
The recommended portion is 1 tablet 2 times a day, preferably immediately after a meal. Wash down the preparation with 300 ml of water.
RECOMMENDATIONS OF MUSCLE-ZONE EXPERTJakub kola
Among people practicing intensive and regular physical activity, the need for minerals and vitamins is increased, therefore it is extremely important to take care about supplementing them.
Manufacturer
Trec Nutrition is a company offering a wide choice of products for athletes. Products of this brand include carbohydrate-protein supplements, protein and energizers. The offer also includes amino acid supplements, creatine, HMB, fat burners, thermogenics, products supporting metabolism and speeding up the regeneration of joints.
Vitamin C
Information
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) it is a vitamin soluble in body fluids, can be taken from foods (fruits and vegetables), or as drug derived synthetically. The largest of its resources can be found in broccoli, Brussels sprout, kale, black currant fruit and hawthorn, citrus fruits, tomatoes, Savoy cabbage, potatoes. In fact, intake of vitamin C of the food products does not limit the absorbed quantity. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a potent antioxidant, it isan antitoxic, increasing the immune system due to the elimination of risk of bacterial contamination. Vitamin C prevents rupture of blood vessels, affects the blood cholesterol level. It substantially increases the absorption of iron. Inhibits the growth of cancer cells. Lowers stress levels.
Vitamin C deficiency causes abnormal development of connective tissue, cracking capillaries, abnormal calcification of bone tissue, impaired absorption of iron, scorbutus. With the lack of vitamin C, all kinds of injuries do not heal up properly. Vitamin C deficiency can be caused by smoking; each cigarette is destroying up to 100 mg of vitamin C.
Dosage: The demand is 60-80 mg daily. It does not limit the ability to consume higher doses. Some side effects may occur only with longer taking of synthetic vitamin C.
Ascorbic acid
Information
Ascorbic acid – vitamin C. Its biologically active form is the L-isomer, which negatively rotates the polarised light, so that it is a dextroisomer (laevorotatory vitamin C does not exist). It is a strong antioxidant; it reduces the amounts of free radicals, which reduces oxidative stress, a factor leading to cell apoptosis, which is why it is indicated to be a cause for premature ageing.
It supports the immune system functions and increases body system immunity. It is an essential element of the collagen synthesis path, which is why it positively affects the condition of connective tissue. Hence, it promotes also wound healing and increases the durability of capillary vessel. It is involved in transformations of tyrosine and carnitine as well as of some nutrients, so that it affects metabolism. It can also have an impact on the nervous system functions, as it reduces mental fatigue.
Higher supply of vitamin C is especially recommended in the periods of more intensive body system burden, after infections and in order to accelerate regeneration. The indications for increased supply of the vitamin are also hard physical work or intensive trainings.
Vitamin B3
Information
Vitamin B3 (vitamin PP, niacin, nicotinic acid, nicotinamide) is niacinamide niacin. It is used in interaction with vitamins B1, B2 and B6 in the synthesis of hormones during lactation. It provides proper functioning of the brain and nervous system. It is helpful in inflammatory conditions of the skin. Required for synthesis of sex hormone, estrogen, testosterone, cortisone, and insulin. It does not lose its properties in the manufacturing and storage. The source of acquiring vitamins PP are both products of animal origin (the lean meat, eggs, fish) and vegetable origin (dates, figs, hazelnuts, plums).
Dosage: 2-12 mg / day for children, 14 mg / day for women, 16 mg / day for men and 17-18 mg / day for pregnant or nursing women.
Nicotinic acid amide (Nicotinamide)
Information
Nicotinic acid amide – also known as nicotinamide, belongs to a group of compounds referred to as vitamin B3, along with nicotinic acid and inositol hexanicotinate. It exerts its main biological activity as a precursor to two key coenzymes for efficient energy metabolism of the body: nicotinamide adenine dinucletodide and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate. They are responsible for carrying hydrogen and electrons in the respiratory chain and thus facilitate efficient energy production by the human body.
Nicotinamide supplementation is recommended for active persons not only because of its ability to promote the body’s energy efficiency. It has also a beneficial impact on mind, increases tolerance to stressors and may reduce symptoms of depression. It is pointed out that niacin supplementation correlates positively with sleep quality.
Unlike nicotinic acid, nicotinamide does not show the ability to produce a “flush effect”, namely redness in the face caused by taking large doses of niacin. It has been also shown to influence partly cardiovascular function.
Nicotinamide is also indicated to influence beneficially the absorption of other B vitamins and vitamin D. This compound should be taken with caution by diabetics because it can increase the body’s demand for insulin.
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid)
Information
Vitamin B5 (calcium pantothenate, pantothenic acid, pantotenol) is part of a complex of B vitamins affects the development of the central nervous system, is the building substance of cells. In the body synthesized by the intestinal bacteria. It occurs in animal products (meat, kidneys, liver) and plants (wheat germ, wheat bran, nuts, grains, green vegetables). Prevents fatigue and excessive stress, accelerates the healing of cuts and wounds, acts as a stimulant for the side effects of the use of antibiotics. Deficiency causes skin changes, and difficulty in blood clotting.
Calcium
Information
Calcium (element chem. symbol Ca, atomic no. 20, the group of alkaline earth metals) is the basic building substance of bones and teeth, in which stored is 99% of the element, in the form of hydroxylapatite. When building bones and teeth, phosphorus is veryimportant in the right proportion. It is a base-forming element and activator of many enzymes (ATPase) necessary to release the energy of ATP. It has a significant effect on blood clotting and regulates blood pressure and neuromuscular conductivity. Thanks to the reduced permeability of cell membranes, it soothes the symptoms of food allergies. Calcium is actively involved in the metabolism of iron interacts with vitamins A, C and D and phosphorus, magnesium. Natural source of calcium are animal products (dairy products, sardines, salmon, sprats eaten with bones) and plant products (nuts, soybeans, sunflower seeds). Absorption takes place in the small intestine (less in the colon), it has an effect on the level of lactose, insoluble fibre, organic acids, alkalinity (low pH). The best absorption have organic compounds (lactates, amino acid chelates etc.). Obstructing the absorption of calcium is caused by: phytic acid and oxalic acid as well as excess fat. Scientific studies have confirmed that the combination of calcium, magnesium, boron and vitamin D in dose 3 mg / 24h effectively prevent osteoporosis. Supplements on the market are both mono-preparation supplements (enriched with vitamin D3) and multi-component supplements, available at www.muscle-zone.pl.
Calcium deficiency disorders manifested in the construction of the bones (osteoporosis) and iron metabolism. The symptoms are: rickets, cramps and muscle tremor, osteoporosis.
Excess resulting from an overdose of calcium supplements containing vitamin D3 for children and adults overdose of calcium (hypercalcemia). Symptoms of hypercalcemia are: lack of appetite, vomiting and constipation.
The dosage administered in various publications are inconsistent: 800 - 1000 mg / 24 h (100 - 500 mg / 24h)
Vitamin B6
Information
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine, pyridoxal, pyridoxamine) is soluble in the liquid. It participates in the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. By reducing the amount of fat in the blood do not enable deposition of the body. It helps the absorption of magnesium and vitamin B12 (cobalamin). It works on the muscle antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory pain in the joints. It acts anti. It provides efficient operation of the brain. It increases energy increasing vigor of a man. The demand for vitamin B6 increases during pregnancy and breast-feeding infants. The natural product is: yeast, eggs, wheat germ, meat (liver), wheat bran, nuts, peanuts peanuts, soybeans. There is a hypothesis that can be synthesized by intestinal bacteria.
Deficiency of vitamin B6 causes abnormal metabolism of proteins, decrease in lymphocytes in the blood, causes a feeling of lethargy and fatigue intensifies.
Dosage: 1.5-2.5 mg daily (increased demand during pregnancy and lactation).
Pyridoxine hydrochloride
Information
What is pyridoxine hydrochloride?
Pyridoxine hydrochloride is a basic, the most commonly used form of vitamin B6 in supplements and fortified foods. It is a vitamin soluble in water. It converts to the active form of the vitamin - pyridoxal phosphate.
Vitamin B6 is a cofactor in many enzymatic reactions. It takes part in the production of many neurotransmitters, such as GABA, serotonin and catecholamines and it takes part in the metabolism of amino acids, carbohydrates and lipids. It is an important factor for the process of the creation of red cells and hemoglobin and its deficit may be one of the factors causing anemia. This vitamin contributes to maintaining proper energy metabolism and is important for maintaining well-being and good psychological condition. Its presence supports the breakdown of pro-inflammatory homocysteine to cysteine and further metabolites, thanks to which it may decrease the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiological incidents.
Pyridoxine hydrochloride may be found in many vitamin B complexes and vitamin-mineral preparations available in the offer of muscle-zone.pl.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Information
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is soluble in liquids, is involved in the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Required for growth of the organism. Takes part in the production of erythrocytes (red blood cells). It is located in natural foods, such as yeast, meat (especially liver, kidney, heart), milk, fish and green leafy vegetables.
A deficiency of vitamin B2 inhibits the growth, diseases of the mouth, loss and greasy hair, seborrhea and stratification of nails. Increases skin roughness and susceptibility to acne and oily skin.
Dosage: 1-2 mg per day.
Vitamin B1 (thiamine)
Information
Vitamin B1 (thiamin, vitamin B) improves mental alertness and strengthens the nervous system ensuring the proper functioning of the brain. It improves cardiac and muscular system. It is suportive in the treatment of shingles. Involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. Natural source of vitamin B1 are brown bread, yeast, eggs, raw vegetables, meat, milk, legumes, cheese.
Vitamin B1 deficiency hinders the processes of decomposition of sugars (catabolism), causes a loss of appetite and disorders in the functioning of the digestive tract, can cause polyneuritis and disease beriberi.
Dosage: Recommended daily intake is 1-2 mg.
Vitamin E
Information
Vitamin E (tocopherol) is a fat soluble. Due to its antioxidant action, it is a protection of other vitamins (e.g. Vitamins A). Protects the body against free radicals, strengthens the walls of blood vessels and its capacity, causing their dilation and dissolution of blood clots. With the reduction of coagulation, it is used as an antiatherogenic medicine, it allows for the proper course of pregnancy. In cooperation with selenium it slows the ageing process of cells, strengthening connective tissue. In the food it is present in whole-grain bread, sprout and grains, vegetable oils (soybean, sunflower), soya beans and sunflower seeds, vegetable fat and hen egg yolks. Also it is used in sports medicine in the form of nutrients and supplements.
Vitamin E deficiency reduces building of red blood cells, results in changes in muscle and disorders of pregnancies.
Dosage: for children, 0.5 mg / 1 kg of weight; for adults 10-30 mg per day.
Folic acid
Information
Folic acid - also known as vitamin B9, is a synthetic form of naturally occurring folates. It needs to be transformed to folates in order to be biologically active also in the human organism. Therefore, its supplementation is recommended to people who do not have problems with methylation processes.
The majority of people associate folic acid with the period of pregnancy. It is definitely a justified association. Proper supply of vitamin B9 conditions correct development of the fetus and prevents disorders of neural tube defects in a baby.
Supplementation with folic acid also demonstrates positive influence on the functions of the nervous system of adults. Some sources say that it is conducive to maintaining beneficial emotional states. Moreover, folic acid takes part in the process of erythropoiesis, thanks to which it enables efficient production of red cells.
Supplementation with folic acid should be also considered by men who deal with low sperm quality. It was proven that complementing the level of vitamin B9 is conducive to increasing reproductive abilities of men.
Biotin
Information
Biotin (vitamin H, co-enzyme R) is in a group of B vitamins, due to the presence of sulphur compounds it is involved in the synthesis of ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Also synthesized in the intestines. It enhances the production of hormones and regulates cholesterol levels. It reduces muscle pain. It prevents hair loss and graying of hair. It soothes the skin inflammations. No toxic effects. Often combined with other B group vitamins and vitamin A. The natural sources of biotin are: whole grain bread, yeast, eggs (yolk), milk, brown rice and cheese.
Daily demand: 100-300 mg per day
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
Information
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin, cyanocobalamin) is a vitamin soluble in liquids. Participates in the production of red blood cells and is essential in the absorption of iron by the body. It calming effect, a positive effect on concentration and memory. Intensifies its action in cooperation with folic acid (vitamin M). Usually occurs in animal products, fish and dairy products. It contains trace elements.
Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to pernicious anaemia, general and immunity weakness, inhibiting of growth and damage to the myelin sheath of nerves.
Cyanocobalamin
Information
What is cyanocobalamin?
Cyanocobalaminis a basic, the most commonly met form of vitamin B12 in vitamin B complexes and multivitamins available on the market.
Vitamin B12 is the most known for its influence on neurology. It takes part in building and regenerating myelin sheaths of neurons, thanks to which it contributes to the protection of the nervous system against damages. Because of the ability to increase the level of S-Adenosyl methionine, vitamin B12 may contribute to more efficient synthesis of many neurotransmitters, thanks to which it positively influences well-being and psychical condition.
This vitamin is also engaged in the process of blood production and its deficiencies contribute to the creation of megaloblastic anemia. Its deficits may also concern vegetarians and vegans, elderly people, people with absorption disorders and those using drugs neutralizing gastric acid.
Cyanocobalamin is included in the composition of many complex vitamin supplements that may be found in the offer of muscle-zone.pl.
Guarana (Paulinia cupana)
Information
Guarana (Paulinia cupana) is a plant of the family Sapindaceae, of which seeds contain purine alkaloid (caffeine), acting as a stimulant on the body of the athlete. The caffeine content in the seeds of guarana is between 4 and 8%. Powdered seeds are the raw material for supplements. Thanks to the slow release of caffeine in the human digestive tract, stimulation takes longer and is less rapid than the consumption of strong coffee or infusions of caffeine. The extracts of Guarana supports the athlete’s body, they increase exercise and endurance capacity (especially aerobic). Guarana is also a component of fat burners. It is often combined with extracts of various plants (e.g. Green tea, cayenne pepper, herbal and synthetic substances). Besides infusions, guarana is in the form of a one-component water soluble powders, capsules, and bottled beverages and concentrates.
Dosage: In terms of 100-300 mg of caffeine per serving, depending on the needs.
Caffeine
Information
Caffeine (1,3,7-trimethylxanthine, 1-methylotheobromine) is a purine alkaloid occurring in the natural state in plants (Coffea arabica, Camelia sinensis, Paulinia cupana, Ilex paraguariensis), which acts as a natural pesticide, acting toxic to insects. Peculiar smell and taste also deters herbivores. Caffeine in the body inhibits the adenosine receptors in the brain, fighting fatigue and allowing for action activation. It has a beneficial effect on the metabolism of oxygen, which increases the exercise capacity (strength and endurance) and rapid post-workout recovery. In the sports supplementation, caffeine is used as a stimulant nervous system. It has the thermogenic potential and in combination with other substances (e.g. Polyphenols, both occurring in coffee beans, such as cocoa beans, tea leaves and mate) can effectively participate in the reduction of body fat. It is included in many dietary stimulants (creatine stacks, no-boosters, beverages). It is a component of fat burners. It is also in the form of mono-preparation supplements.
Dosage: 100-600 mg per day. Due to the long release of activity should not be used in the evening, before sleep.
Citrus Bioflavonoids
Information
Citrus bioflavonoids (flavanones) - are found in citrus fruits (oranges and bitter grapefruit) and contain naringenin and naringenin with a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action and enhancing metabolism of a number of substances. Increase immunity and strengthen the walls of blood vessels. Reduce the secretion of cortisol, while increasing the norepinephrine hormone allowing for the reduction of body fat. Citrus flavonoids are an ingredient of supplements in the category of "health and beauty", vitaminizing supplements, thermogenics, herbal blends supporting the functioning of the endocrine system.
Hesperidin
Information
Hesperidin - bioflavonoid occurring naturally in plants (fruit, vegetables and herbs), is an antioxidant binding free radicals, is beneficial to cardiovascular system (strengthening of blood vessels, improved circulation). Increases the effectiveness of ascorbic acid and maintaining the appropriate structure of collagen, affects the state of connective tissue. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic potential (reducing the release of histidine) and increases immunity. In the supplementation there is lack of hesperidin mono-preparation. Both in the form of natural or synthetic, present in combination with quercetin, rutin and ascorbic acid. Available in supplements to support immunity, and in some creatine stacks and nitrogen boosters.
Dosage: Recommended in sports supplementation 20-100mg per day.
Ginseng (Panax ginseng)
Information
Ginseng (Panax ginseng) standardized extract 27-30% of ginsenosides. The raw material is the ginseng root, from which is prepared the extract of substances called ginsenosides, containing 27-30% of this component. Ginseng root has been used for years in Oriental medicine. It shows the great biological activity: It increases mental and physical performance, increases vitality, is an antioxidant, strengthens the immune system, slows the ageing process.
In the sports supplementation extracts of ginseng support the exercise capacity (primarily oxygen metabolism of the body) and ensure fast renewal of muscular and nervous systems. Also enhances sexual ability. By standardizing, there is a higher concentration of the components, improving effectiveness, which raises the price of the product, but also guarantees its composition. Preparations of ginseng available at www.muscle-zone.pl.
Ginsenosides
Information
Ginsenosides (triterpene saponins) are biologically active ingredient in ginseng root, its leaves and generative organs. Improve the oxygenation of the tissues of the body, affecting the increase in exercise capacity during the psychophysical effort. An antibacterial and antiviral strengthening immunity. By antioxidant action, limit the development of free radicals and membrane protein brain. Improve sexual ability. Used in sports supplementation at different levels of training. Improve concentration and ability to memorize. Available in mono-preparation supplement and herbal blends, herbal-mineralizing and herbal vitaminizing blends.
Dosage: 10-50 mg per day.
American ginseng (Panax quinquefolium)
Information
American ginseng(Panax quinquefolium) – a plant species of the ivy family, native to North America. The main biologically active compounds found in this raw material are ginsenosides and quinquenosides, which are triterpenoid saponins. The content and kind of ginsenosides is similar to Panax ginseng. The root of the ginseng is mainly used in medicine.
American ginseng shows adaptogenic properties and that is why it is used to reduce mental tension and different kinds of stress. It influences positively immune function and has an antioxidant effect, thereby helping fight inflammation.
American ginseng supports cognitive functions, memory and focus. Owing to its stimulant properties, it reduces a feeling of fatigue and helps maintain vitaloty, physical fitness and sexual performance. The combination of American ginseng with another adaptogen, e.g. ashwagandha, will enhance its adaptogenic and rejuvenating properties.
Supplements with American ginseng are recommended especially to individuals who lead a stressful lifestyle, do strenuous physical or mental work and during drops in energy levels, fatigue and impotence, and the elderly to promote cognitive functions.
Coenzyme Q10
Information
Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) is a physiological antioxidant, a fat soluble. It takes an active part in the process of creating the energy of ATP. intracorporealsynthesis requires the presence of B vitamins and trace elements, its intensification is caused by heavy training stress or under the influence of stress. Beneficial effects of Coenzyme Q10 has been found on the cardiovascular system, lipid profile (lowering LDL) cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Reducing the level of coenzyme Q10 starts when the age of 35, hence must be supplemented by preparations available in cosmetics (external action on the skin), and supplements intensifying the production of energy (for athletes strength) as well as mono-preparation supplement available at www.muscle-zone.pl.
Dosage: 10 - 90 mg / 24h
Magnesium
Information
Magnesium (element from the group of alkaline earth metals, atomic no. 12, a chemical symbol - Mg), one of the most important health microelements, participates in the synthesis process of the disintegration of high energy compounds and processes of transformation of hydrocarbons and fats. It affects the dilation of blood vessels and lower blood pressure, prevents hypercoagulable state. Shortages affect cardiac arrhythmias, malignant muscle cramps, insomnia and anxiety. It is a component of many dietary supplements and found in foods such as whole grain bread, legumes, buckwheat, rice, fish, meat, as well as chocolate, cocoa and nuts.
Dosage of 100 - 500 mg / day
Magnesium oxide
Information
Magnesium oxide – the most common form of this macroelement in supplementation that is essential to the human body. It belongs to a group of key intracellular cations and that is why its adequate levels are critical to maintaining the body’s homeostasis. An active lifestyle increases requirements for magnesium and that is why its supplementation is recommended strongly to athletes.
The most common symptoms associated with magnesium deficiencies are muscle cramps and eye twitches. This is connected with a significant impact of magnesium ions on the efficiency of the nervous system. Its adequate intake helps maintain neuromotor fitness. Deficiencies of this element are also said to aggravate symptoms of depression.
What is more, magnesium supplementation supports healthy cardiovascular function. It is suggested that its deficiencies promote the development of atherosclerotic lesions and hypertension. Too low dietary magnesium intake is associated with arrythmia and increased risk of heart attack.
Magnesium supplements are recommended to individuals doing hard mental work and learning. Its healthy levels enhance focus and may facilitate learning. It has a beneficial impact on sleep quality.
Magnesium carbonate
Information
Magnesium is one of the most deficient elements of a classic diet, therefore supplements with magnesium are incredibly popular. Deficiencies of this mineral mainly may result in hypertension, lower sensitivity to insulin and psychological symptoms, such as increased stress, irritability, fatigue and weariness.
This element also takes part in regulating water balance in the organism and nerve transmission. It influences muscle work, which may be observed in characteristic cramps related to magnesium deficiency. It is also known for its anti-stress and sedative properties, thanks to which it is willingly used before sleep and in the situations characterized with high psychological burden. It is also important for mineral density of bones, as right next to calcium, it is one of the most important elements for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
Magnesium citrate
Information
Magnesium citrate is a salt of magnesium and citric acid. It constitutes one of the best assimilable forms of magnesium, which plays many important functions in the organism. It is responsible, among others, for the proper work of the nervous, immune and muscle systems.
Magnesium has calming effect by decreasing the excitability of nerve cells. Thanks to introducing this element to a diet, we may potentially improve sleep quality and reduce the level of stress.
Positive influence on the circulatory system is another feature of magnesium. It prevents hypertension and storage of cholesterol in the walls of blood vessels (arteries), thanks to which it may prevent diseases related to the circulatory system.
Magnesium also plays a considerable role in the process of muscle contraction, therefore it influences the activity of the whole muscle system. It also takes part in the proper synthesis of protein, the process of cell division and proper course of energy metabolism. It helps to maintain healthy teeth and bones and general electrolyte balance in the organism.
Zinc
Information
Zinc (chemical element from transition group 12) belongs to the trace elements, it helps maintain acid-base balance of the body, protein, energy, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. It provides bone metabolism and transport of oxygen. It protects the body against free radicals. Necessary for the proper operation of the senses of taste and smell. Positive impact on the process of insulin metabolism in the pancreas. It supports visual adaptation to the dark, has a significant influence on brain function. It is helpful in the treatment of infertility and mental illness.
Zinc deficiency leads to decreased immunity, and growth retardation. Zinc deficiency can occur in case of excessive consumption of simple sugars. In the case of hormonal therapy of women with irregular menstruation, the therapy should be associated with increased consumption of zinc. It can be found in food like: beans, eggs, carrots, beef and pork meat, milk, nuts, citrus fruits, seafood, rice, cottage cheese, lettuce.
Dosage: Daily 12-15 mg zinc. Exceeding the daily dose of 20 mg cause symptoms of poisoning of the body.
Zinc oxide
Information
What is zinc oxide?
Zinc oxide is a binding of oxygen with zinc in the II oxidation state. It is one of the forms used in dietary supplements.
Zinc is a mineral with a very wide range of effects on the human organism. Among its properties is, for example, the beneficial effect on the condition of the skin, especially helpful for people struggling with acne. Men appreciate zinc for its ability to increase testosterone levels and reduce oestradiol, which is possible thanks to aromatase inhibition. The mineral is also beneficial for the thyroid gland, as it can help to increase the level of hormones FT3 and FT4. The neurological aspect of zinc’s activity is also very interesting. It has the ability to block the access of glycine to the NMDA receptor, and the initiation of ion flow in the receptor becomes impossible for glycine. Thanks to that, zinc can protect neurons from the excitotoxic activity of glutamate. It also contributes to the growth of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which can be beneficial for cognitive functions and reduce the risk of depression.
Zinc oxide can be found in vitamin and mineral complexes offered by muscle-zone.pl.
Iron
Information
The iron part of the dye in the form of the heme (hemoglobin and myoglobin in meat), a non-haem (in plant), and enzymes responsible for transport and storage of oxygen in the body. It occurs in enzymes responsible for: the metabolism of fatty acids, prostaglandin biosynthesis, catabolism of tryptophan. The absorption of iron in plant is lower than in animal products. In plant foods, it is reduced by contained chemicals: phytates and oxalates, also calcium and high acidity (pH factor). Only 8% of the intake of iron is absorbed by the body and transported to the blood. For tts absorption is needed sufficient amount of: cobalt, manganese, copper and vitamin C. Iron itself is essential for the metabolism of B vitamins. Source of acquisition of iron are animal products (meat, organ meats, egg yolks) and plant products (whole grain bread, beans , cocoa, parsley, nuts, soy). Iron is also present in synthetic form as a component of vitamin-mineral and mineral and mono-preparation supplements, often enriched with vitamin C. Supplements containing iron compounds are recommended for athletes during intense training and those on a meatless diet (vegetarians and vegans).
Iron deficiency causes anaemia. Using a large amount of strong coffee or tea hinders the absorption of iron. Symptoms of iron deficiency are: insomnia, diarrhea, impaired body temperature, loss of papillae on the tongue, reduced exercise capacity, and reduced intellectual and psychological efficiency.
Excess iron reduces the absorption of other elements (e.g. zinc, copper), reduced immunity, causing tissue damage of some organs (kidney, liver, heart), increased risk of cancer.
Dosage: 3-12 mg per day.
Manganese
Information
Manganese, of which a natural source is chocolate, grain products with whole grain, nuts, legumes and dried cranberry, is a component of enzymes and their activator. It stimulates the properties and functionality of connective tissue and provides proper functioning of the brain. It affects the function of the pancreas, ensuring proper insulin metabolism and condition of the bone and joints. Magnesium deficiency contributes to serious disorders in synthesis of hyaluronic acid and chondroitin, reduction in insulin sensitivity of tissues, affects bone resorption. Manganese chelates are used in complexometry in chemical analysis and in medicine for the treatment of severe poisoning (antitoxin) by heavy metals, in sports supplementation, manganese impact on the functioning of the locomotor system is used. It is a component of the so-called regenerators of joints and a vitamin-mineralizing and mineralizing supplements.
Copper
Information
Copper - trace mineral that facilitates the introduction of iron into hemoglobin, allowing the correct functioning of antioxidant processes. It is an important component of enzymes that affect the processes of aerobic metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism and in the formation of collagen. With proper diet, do not use supplements containing copper, as an overdose can cause insomnia, hair loss. It occurs in foods such as legumes, offal, plums, seafood. Copper compounds must be used in a responsible way, because many of them have toxic properties.
Dosing: A sufficient amount of copper provides proper diet.
Iodine
Information
Iodine - more than two-thirds of iodine is stored in the thyroid gland and it is a component produced by it hormones - thyroxine and triiodothyronine, which are essential in the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates and minerals and regulating the processes of growth, causing it usefulness in sports supplementation. It is also the ingredient of weight loss products. Regulates and controls body temperature. Natural source of acquisition of iodine are: bladderwrack, seafood, sea fish and onion and vegetables growing in soil containing this element and most of all iodized salt ..
Deficiency of iodine in the body cause hypothyroidism, and consequently overweight, mental slowing (cretinism inclusive). It is the cause of a goitre. Iodine deficiency can be caused by rhodanates and polyphenols (e.g. contained in cabbage and cauliflower), hemagglutinin found in legumes.
Excess iodine can result in inhibition of thyroid hormone synthesis (this happens in a small percentage of cases).
Dosage: Treatment of iodine should be done under medical supervision. Daily demand for adults is 150 mcg. For pregnant women daily demand increases to 175 mcg.
Potassium
Information
Potassium and sodium regulate the body's water resources, ensuring normal heart rhythm. Maintaining the proper level of potassium provides the proper oxidation of the brain, lowers blood pressure, increases the permeability of cell membranes (as an antagonist of calcium). It is a base-forming element. It is widely used in sports diet before and after training in the form of supplements, nutrients, vitamin-mineral preparations and minerals, concentrates and ready, isotonic and hypertonic beverages. Natural sources of acquisition of potassium are: vegetable products (bananas, citrus fruits, melons, mint leaves, green vegetables, potatoes) and animal products (sea fish, meat). Potassium is present in the form of organic compounds: citric acids, and fumarates gluconates and inorganic (chlorides, sulfates, oxides and carbonates).
Potassium deficiency (hypokalemia): excessive tiredness, headaches and irritability, problems with sleeping, muscle cramps, constipation. Potassium levels may drop sharply in the event of a reduction in blood sugar levels, prolonged starvation, severe diarrhea. They can occur when too much of strong coffee is consumed, with alcohol abuse and when eating too much sweets.
The excess of potassium (hyperkalemia) is often the cause of depression, hypotension, tingling in the extremities.
Selenium
Information
Selenium (element, chemicalsymbol Se, atomic no. 34, from chalcogenide, it is present in several allotropic forms). It is supplied the body with food in the form of seleno-amino acids (selenomethionine - gathering supplies, and selenocysteine – a component of glutathione peroxidase, deiodinase and seleno-proteins). Regulates the functioning of the thyroid gland. It affects the growth and development, including sexual development (by increasing production and sperm motility). It affects the flexibility of the tissue, removes some of the toxins from the body and destroys cancer cells and reduces the severity of menopause in women. Natural products containing selenium are seafood (sea fish, oysters, bladderwrack) and vegetable products (broccoli, onions, wheat germ, bran, tomatoes) and animal products (poultry, eggs). It is also included in the composition of vitamin-mineral and mineral supplements. Selenium supplementation is recommended as a dietary supplement of active people having diet poor in this element, and as a factor increasing the body's immunity.
Selenium deficiency increases the risk of developing cancer and heart disease. Symptoms of selenium deficiency are: cardiomyopathy, growth stoppage, disorders of detoxification processes which may lead to damage to the kidneys and liver.
An excess of selenium can lead to selenosis (the disease, the symptoms are: loss of hair, nail cracks, lesions).
daily demand of selenium for pregnant women 65 mcg; nursing mothers 75 mcg; men 7 mcg.
Sodium
Information
Sodium is an important component of the intracellular fluids, and is a regulator of acid-base balance. Along with potassium affects the proper of growth and provides the proper functioning of muscles and nerves. The source of acquisition is table salt (NaCl) and bladderwrack, shellfish, bacon, beef, and of plant beets and carrots. People on salt-free diet should avoid, among others, spicy sauces and smoked meats and sausages.
Sodium deficiency is very rare, at heaving sweating after a long effort (e.g. in the marathon).
Excess sodium increases blood pressure (especially for the elderly), edema and increased thirst. Exceeding the daily dose of 14g a day can cause poisoning.
Chromium
Information
Chromium (chemical element from transition group of the chromium, chemically active) is actively involved in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. It comes in the easily assimilable organic form and inorganic. Along with insulin, as a component of the glucose tolerance factor (GTF), is used in insulin-dependent diabetes treatment, insulin involved in the metabolism of glucose in t proteins transport. Activator of enzymes involved in the metabolism of fats and cholesterol. Available in animal origin products (liver, veal, chicken, turkey meat, oysters) and plant-origin (bananas, broccoli, cereal, wheat germ, spinach). Supplements containing chromium are recommended for fat loss (also thermogenic), and improving the functioning of the body. The sports supplementation used chromium in the form of mono-preparations or in the form of vitamin-mineral minerals supplements.
Chromium deficiency results in impaired glucose, reducing the insulin sensitivity. It causes a decrease in immunity and endurance of the body. It may be a cause of coronary heart disease. Sometimes it causes neurological disorders.
Dosage: A varied diet prevents from the deficiency of chromium in the body.
Dosage: The recommended dose of 50-150 mg per day.
Chloride
Information
Chlorine (chemical element from the group of halogens) - in the natural form of gas it is poisonous and water-soluble (until recently used as a disinfectant in the water supply system, now replaced by fluorination). It is chemically active element. It is used in the form of sodium chloride (NaCl) and potassium (KCl). It participates in the process of digestion and maintains acid-base balance in the body, removes toxic products of metabolism in the liver (antitoxin). Natural source of chlorine for the body is salt and bladderwrack.
Chlorine deficiency can occur due to excessive sweating, vomiting, causing digestive tract problems. It also causes loss of hair and teeth.
Excess chlorine, for example. Drink excessive amounts of chlorinated water, destroys bacterial flora and vitamin E.
Dosage: Daily dose should not exceed 15 grams.
Molybdenum
Information
Molybdenum (the element of the chromium groups, atomic no. 42, a chemical symbol Mo) - a trace element involved in the metabolic conversion of carbohydrates and fats and increases the absorption of iron. It is used to treat anaemia. Well affects the mood.. It is a component of many dietary supplements and in foods such as lettuce, cabbage and other leafy green vegetables, whole grains (corn, sunflower, etc.).
GABA
Information
GABA (gamma amino butyric acid) is an amino acid neurotransmitter fulfilling the role of suppressing, of which precursor is the glutamate (neurotransmitter) excitatory neurotransmitter. Reduces psychophysical tension and cortisol levels, enhances the synthesis of growth hormone having anti-catabolic and regenerating properties. Higher need for GABA by the organism occurs with overtraining, mental exhaustion of the body (stress, depression). Supplementation sports and for physically active people recommended after and during intense exercise. GABA is available in the form of mono-preparation supplement and multicomponent formulations to support the regeneration of the night regenerateion and relaxation of the nervous system.
Dosage: 0,5-3g daily approx. 1 hour before bedtime (single dose, customarily in supplementation).
l-teanine
Information
L-theanine is an amino acid, not building proteins, occurring naturally in the dried green tea leaves, absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, overcomes easily blood-brain barrier, affecting the nervous system and the relation between neurotransmitters (e.g.dDopamine, serotonin, gamma-aminobutyric acid), with a relaxing effect and increases the psycho-physical capacity, (concentration, memory, alertness). Recommended for use for people burdened with considerable physical effort, athletes of sport disciplines that require concentration and memory, also for students in the period before exams. Available in the form of mono-preparations and multi-component relaxing and post-workout anti-stress supplements..
Dosage: customarily used in supplementation 50-200mg per day
Tryptophan
Information
Tryptophan is one of the nine essential amino acids that require high protein food consumption, mono-preparation supplements tryptophan, an amino acid type and EAA-day nutrients and protein, which is essential in the process of protein synthesis. A derivative of 5-HTP in the decarboxylation is a precursor of serotonin ((tissue hormone having an effect on blood pressure and peristalsis), and the subsequent processes of melatonin (the hormone sleep). It is used for synthesis of nicotinic acid (niacin, known as vitamin PP). The due to the appetite suppressant is also used in certain weight loss formulations.
Even a small deficiency is dangerous for the course of many physiological processes, can cause the nervous system deterioration of mood, insomnia, and disturbances in the digestive process. Tryptophan deficiency in the long term leads to depression and neurological disorders.
Mono-preparation supplements of tryptophan are recommended as a means of reducing the stress and reducing the feeling of insomnia. A part of the nutritional supplements type of EAA and all-day aminoacids, it is a valuable component of protein supplements. Available in store www.muscle-zone.pl
Doses recommended in supplementation: 500 - 2000 mg at bedtime, alternatively 500 - 1000 mg before meals. | {
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Thursday, January 11, 2007
Q & A about our Bank Account Search:Q: Are you able to find more than one bank account with your bank account search?A: Yes. By request, when choosing a #6 Enhanced Bank Account Search, we can locate more than one bank account.
Q: What are the costs associated with finding multiple bank accounts?A: The price we quote on the website for a #6 Enhanced Bank Account Search - $329 - finds one bank account ($75 no hit fee, then $254 with a hit). For each additional account located, we charge $239 per hit. There are no more hit fees. The customer will need to specify how many accounts they want to be searched.
Q: Can you locate multiple accounts with your less expensive search (#5 Bank Accont Search).A: Sorry, that search employs a different methodology. It finds only one account.
Q: Why are there no hit fees to begin with? If there's an account, won't you find it?A: Many persons do not understand the purpose of a bank account search. The search does not verify whether or not an account exists; it seeks to find the location of an existing account. This is an important distinction. If our company comes back from a search with a no hit, we are not saying an account does not exist. We are saying that we were unable to locate it. Our hit rates are stellar in the industry, and no provider will have a hit rate of 100%.
Q: I'd like to get a bank account search on my aunt Hilda, just because...A: Sorry! We can't help you...nor should any one else. For individuals to access our asset search services, they must provide documentation which substantiates that they are in legal proceedings. Only attorneys and private investigators may use our asset search services without presenting evidence that they are in process of civil litigation. | {
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Commines
Description
This modern and spacious one bedroom apartment, on the 3rd floor with elevator, is well located in the Marais. Fully renovated and equipped to a high standard, the apartment features large flat-screen TV, Miele combination washing machine/dryer, integrated dishwasher, full oven, 4 stove burner, microwave and integrated fridge and freezer.The separate bedroom looks onto internal courtyard and the large shower opens onto the bedroom. The WC is located off the living area, at the entrance to the apartment.The double dining (seating 6 people) and living room open onto internal courtyard, offering peace and quiet.The original exposed beams and wooden floors, combine with the modern conveniences to make this is a charming and modern base, set in the heart of the sort-after upper Marais. | {
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Before I moved to Florida, I wasn’t a fan of country music. My itunes library was filled with alternative, punk, hip-hop, and broadway showtunes. Sure, I owned a few Shania Twain songs, but who didn’t? “You’re Still the One” was a cross-over hit. There isn’t a person on the face of God’s green earth who doesn’t like that song.
Then I moved to Florida and it all went downhill.
My country music addiction started off like any other. I bought a Dixie Chicks album. Then, I bought a song by Rascal Flatts. “What Hurts the Most” was the most frequently played song in my itunes library. I didn’t think anything of it. Sometimes I get attached to songs only to despise them two weeks later. I’m fickle like that.
Next thing I knew I was downloading Carrie Underwood’s new album and putting it on my ipod. I blamed it on American Idol. I was looking for a new show to fill the gaping chasm that Friends had left in my heart and so I turned to reality television. I’m not proud of what I did. I’m not excusing my actions. I’m just letting you know the thoughts behind the actions.
Then, Taylor (aka Tay-tay) Swift came out.
I didn’t really like “Tear Drops on My Guitar.” I thought it was thoroughly overplayed and cheesy. The Tay-tay train was racing down the tracks, my friends and family were hopping on board, but I was able to say, “NAY! I will not ride your Tay-tay train! Begone with you!”
One day I heard this song on the radio that I really liked. I was grooving. I was humming along with the verse and bouncing with the upbeat chorus. Then the dj announced that I had just listened to Taylor Swift’s new single “Love Story.” I was alarmed, but still I said, “NAY! I will not ride your Tay-tay train! Begone with you!” To rid myself of the soft spot I had developed for “Love Story”, I decided to analyze the lyrics and make a mockery of them.
Me: What does she mean that he was Romeo and she was the Scarlet Letter? Psssh! That’s dumb. Way to use a literary allusion, Tay-tay Swift. Not! Ha ha! I’m awesome!
That evening I downloaded the song this way I could show people just how idiotic that lyric was.
It was research, really. I didn’t like the song.
A couple of weeks passed and one of my friends told me that I “had to, had to, had to” listen to this new song she had just gotten.
Me: This song is pretty good. The voice sounds really familiar; who’s it by?
Friend: Taylor Swift! I love her.
Me: Ugh, I hate Taylor Swift. She’s so…um…she’s a…such an overprocessed product of the music business. (scoff) So when is the album coming out?
Though on the outside I was screaming, “NAY! I will not ride your Tay-tay train! Begone with you!” on the inside I was saying, “YAY! I want to ride your Tay-tay train! Joe Jonas is a pisser!”
However, it’s time to end the charade.
I can no longer live in my hypocrisy.
Yesterday, I heard “Back to December” for the first time and I was touched.
Right here, right now, I’m proclaiming it to the world: I love me some Tay-tay Swift.
Judge me if you will, but I will not recant. I hope she comes out with albums for the next 30 years. One day, I hope she’s given a Lifetime Achievement Award of some kind and I hope the person who presents the award to her is ridden onstage in a carriage pulled by Joe Jonas and John Mayer. When I finally get married (at sixty), I’m walking down that freakin’ aisle to a Tay-tay Swift song. I’m thinking “You Belong With Me” for my walk down the aisle and then “Crazier” for my first dance with my husband.
Also, any man who I date has to like some Tay-tay Swift.
I’m putting that on my boyfriend application.
Not that I have one of those saved in a file marked “PRIVATE!!!!” on my computer. | {
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Tickets go on sale to the public on Saturday, Aug.19 at 10 a.m. through LiveNation.com. Complete ticket information can be found at eagles.com
The Eagles have sold more than 120 million albums worldwide, have scored six No. 1 albums and have topped the singles charts five times. The tour will continue October 20 in Atlanta, Georgia at Philips Arena; October 24 in Louisville, Kentucky at KFC Yum! Center; and October 27 in Detroit, Michigan at Little Caesars Arena. | {
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The memobottle is ideal for travelling, the office or coupled with college books. Holding 750ml, the memobottle is a reusable water bottle for the premium drinker. The memobottle is a premium slimline, reusable water bottle designed to fit stylishly into handbags, backpacks, laptop bags and even within your pocket; designed to fit where other bottles don’t. The shape of the memobottle™ closely resembles the dimensions of a sheet of paper and is made from a durable BPA-free and cradle-to-cradle certified plastic. The founders of Memobottle set out to create an environmentally friendly, yet convenient alternative to disposable water bottles. Their goal was to flip the equation – by designing a reusable water bottle that is easy to transport but still holds the functional aspects of traditional bottles and help changes people’s way of thinking. Wash with warm water and don’t wash in the dishwasher. Not suitable for carbonated liquids.
Working late night and want to enjoy a warm cup of coffee while doing so, but have to sip it quickly lest it turns cold? Well why not let your laptop or computer itself keep it warm for you. Shaped like a donut this cup warmer easily attaches to the USB port of your device and comfortably holds your coffee up while keeping it warm for you. And yes the donut does look appetising.
Almost 40% people listen to music and become singing stars in the bathroom. Why not? Its the only place our talent doesn’t go for a waste. Elves and Company would like to introduce you to the Bathroom shower Speakers. These Speakers have a suction cup design, which makes it easy to mount on any surface. Moreover, they are water resistant, so there is nothing to worry about even if you dance in there. That’s not it. How many times do we avoid a phone call when we are taking a shower. Not anymore. These Bluetooth speakers have an in-built microphone that allows you to answer calls and talk. There is no getting out of the bathroom now, is there?
Want to drink it neat? But you also want your drink chilled. Well ice just got replaced. These whiskey stones can stay cold long enough throughout the night chilling the drinks and keeping up the fun without diluting your drink
Need to light up your keyboard but don't want to turn on the lights and disturb everyone else? Astro the USB light will come to the rescue with three different light intensities to provide you with a comfortable ambiance to finish your work peacefully
Elves & Co. presents to you a product that will blow your mind away. The Barrel O Smile is a sort of liquid jelly. It can be split apart and rejoined. Play around with it without getting your hand or surrounding wet. Neither do you have to worry about getting that new dry-cleaned shirt dirty. It can also be used to clean the dust between your keyboard spaces or other small places that cannot be kept clean otherwise. Each barrel consists of 50Oz of liquid jelly. Specifications: Size- 7.5cm (height) x 5.4cm (diameter)
Who loves chocolates? Not a hard answer to crack. The answer is EVERYONE. The Chocolate Memopad is not only visually appealing, but smells like real chocolate too. Impress your friends and colleagues by jotting notes into this Brand New Chocolate Bar shaped Memo Pad.
DIY portable cardboard Smartphone Projector focuses on providing customers with a portable projector experience. Content on the smartphone screen can be projected onto a wall to view up to 8x magnification clearly. Made from rugged cardboard. Includes a silicone grip pad to hold your phone in place. Light, compact and portable.
Uses Multi-colored LEDs to project a rainbow at a distance on your wall and ceiling. Perfect to use as a dim night lamp. The light will turn off automatically after 10 minutes,touch the button, it will light up again.4 AAA Battery(not included) supply power. | {
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A Battle of Strengths for Bucs and Chiefs
Since Training Camp Greg Schiano has preached conditioning to his team and being able to grind out the game in the heat.
With a one o'clock kick off on Sunday against the Chiefs we'll see if his objective pays off, since Kansas City plans on not only running the football but the clock.
"They're going to try, notice I said try, we think we have a plan for it, actually we know we have a plan for it," said Bucs Defensive Guard Gerald McCoy. "The slightest slip though and they can hit a homerun, they have those type of backs and those type of run plays."
The Bucs defense has held opponents to 3.5 yards per run making them fourth in the NFL against the rush. But that won't deter Kansas City, who ranks second in the league in rushing and process the NFL's fourth overall offense.
"Last week they (Chiefs) ran the ball like 50 times, so we are going to try to get that down and get them to pass and play to our strengths so we can get off the field," said Buccaneers Defensive End Michael Bennett.
For the Bucs to slow down the Chiefs potent running attack, they'll have to be successful early on Kansas City drives and contain the NFL's leading rusher Jamal Charles.
"We got to stop them on first and second downs and create some third and long situations," said Bucs Linebacker Quincy Black. "It's definitely going to be some tough sledding, because those guys upfront are really really good."
Chiefs Head Coach Romeo Crennel said morning Matt Cassel is waiting on medical clearance from the concussion he sustained last Sunday.
Since he can't go Brady Quinn will make his first start since 2009 and the Chiefs maybe better off since Cassel has turned the ball over 13 times this season. | {
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Latex Allergies and Dental Care
If you are allergic to latex, let your dentist know about your condition before your appointment so that the dental staff can follow the practice's latex-free protocol.
Latex is made from the sap of the rubber tree, and can be found in many household products and medical and dental supplies such as gloves, masks, and syringes. Some people can develop an allergy to latex after repeated exposure to latex products. When a person is allergic to latex, his or her immune system overreacts when latex comes into contact with a mucous membrane. Since dentists wear latex gloves and are in regular contact with the mucous membranes of the mouth, dental patients need to be especially vigilant in alerting their doctors to any latex allergies.
Latex allergies can present in three types of reactions: irritant contact dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, and immediate allergic reaction. An irritant contact dermatitis reaction results in skin abnormalities such as itching, burning, dryness, scaling, and lesions. Allergic contact dermatitis is a delayed reaction to the additives used in latex processing, and can cause similar symptoms as irritant contact dermatitis. With this type of reaction, however, the symptoms are more severe, more widespread, and can last for longer. The most serious form of latex allergy reaction is an immediate allergic reaction. This may present such symptoms as a runny nose, cramps, severe itching, or hives. In some very rare cases, patients who have severe allergic reactions to latex may progress to anaphylaxis, which is life-threatening. If you believe you are experiencing an allergic reaction to latex, make immediate contact with your dentist or doctor, call 911, or proceed to the nearest emergency room.
According to the Cleveland Clinic1, certain people are at a higher risk for developing a latex allergy. People who have the following conditions have an elevated risk of developing an allergy to latex:
Allergies to chestnuts, avocados, kiwis, tomatoes, or bananas
A deformed urinary tract or bladder
Defects in bone marrow cells (myelodysplasia)
Exposure to rubber dams used in dental procedures
A history of multiple surgical procedures
Exposure to rubber-tipped catheters
A history of allergies, asthma, or eczema
There is no cure for a latex allergy, but patients can avoid reactions by preventing contact with latex. If you are allergic to latex, you are advised to let your dentist know about your condition at least one day in advance of a dental appointment so that he or she may follow the practice's latex-free protocol in preparation of your visit.
Sign-up using the form or call us at 858-483-2093 to take advantage of this exclusive offer.
*Regular value of at least $290. In absence of periodontal (gum) disease. New patients only. Discounts may vary when combined with insurance and cannot be combined with other offers or discount plans.
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Testimonial
The staff is very helpful, friendly and kind. The office itself is willing to work with you and make arrangements.
The doctors and assistants are very understanding and gentle, which is really important for a wimp like me. I've had my wisdom teeth removed, cavities filled, deep and regular cleanings. Their attitudes make it much more bearable. | {
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US government should do more for Irish undocumented immigrants
More should be done to end the legal limbo in which undocumented immigrants from Ireland are caught in the United States, according to the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform co-founder, Ciaran Saunders. Saunders’ comments came in the wake of the Supreme Court defeat of the President Obama executive action plan for immigration reform.
Staunton says that the government of Ireland should start to get involved in the situation, describing it as a “nightmare.” Staunton wants to see the Irish Government engaged with the Dublin US Embassy and issue formal requests over the situation, while Charlie Flanagan, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, has admitted to being disappointed by the announcement. Flanagan says that a key objective of the government is to achieve relief for undocumented Irish immigrants and they intend to continue working with Capitol Hill and with Irish immigration activists to try to bring about immigration reform in the United States.
The measures taken by the President were put on hold by federal courts in Louisiana and Texas and with the Supreme Court split on partisan lines, Obama’s immigration policy now remains in permanent limbo along with millions of undocumented immigrants, including Irish immigrants.
Hillary Clinton, the Democratic Presidential candidate, slammed the Supreme Court for their decision, but the ruling is likely to give more impetus to Republicans who will be encouraged to take future executive actions on immigration reform to court even if Clinton beats Republican candidate nominee Donald Trump to the White House in November.
We are not a law firm, and this site and our software are not a substitute for the advice of a lawyer and do not contain or constitute legal advice. We are not affiliated with or sponsored by the United States government or any government agency. This site provides general information on some commonly encountered immigration matters only and was created to allow you to more simply navigate your completion of immigration paperwork using online software. The content on this site should not be relied on to reach conclusions about any person's specific situation. Self-help software and customer support services are provided solely at a user's direction. Customer support is for technical and billing issues only and will not answer legal questions. We do not provide legal advice, opinions, or recommendations about any individual's specific legal rights, remedies, defenses, options, or strategies. We do not make form recommendations or recommend or provide answers to specific questions on forms, and communications between you and us are not protected by any privilege. Purchase prices do not include applicable government agency filing or biometrics fees, if any. The forms that can be completed using our software can be obtained for free from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as blank forms with written instructions. Automated eligibility quizzes were created using instructions, rules and regulations published by the USCIS and only indicate whether you meet minimum eligibility requirements to apply for the given immigration benefit. Quiz results do not guarantee eligibility or ineligibility as you may or may not be eligible based on reasons not addressed in the quizzes. Your access to and use of this site, including any purchase, is subject to and constitutes your agreement to the website Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Refunds will only be issued if requested within thirty (30) days and before completed application is printed. Exceptions and restrictions may apply; see Refund Policy for details. | {
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Top 10 Zombie Games For Android
09/01/14
BlueStacks Roundups
It’s almost that time of year again! Pumpkins will be littered on nearly every doorstep, bats hanging from the ceilings, spiderwebs out in full force, and tombstones in the front lawn are among the many telltale signs that Halloween is fast approaching. What better way to celebrate it then by playing some of the best zombie-themed games out there? Over the past couple of years the popular zombie theme has reached maximum potential as shows and graphic novels like The Walking Dead have fallen into the mainstream, spawning tons of other zombie related entertainment and filling our minds with those lovable brain-eating creatures. These games range from the serious to the silly, action to strategy, and somewhere in between, so let’s get cracking.
Dead Trigger 2
Dead Trigger 2 is the sequel to the award-winning original, which was also a first person wave-based zombie shooter. The concept here is simple, waves of zombies come at you and your team and it’s your job to eliminate all of them before everyone is dead. Building upon the concepts in the original game, Dead Trigger 2 features a real-time story that stretches across all the games played by players, meaning that taking the world back from the zombies is an actual possibility, giving players unique scenarios and gameplay every time. As a free to play game you can earn rewards and in-game items by just playing, or give yourself a boost by spending a little real cash. Content is updated constantly and you’re always guaranteed a fresh set of challenges, boss battles and areas.
The Walking Dead: Season 1
If you haven’t heard of the Walking Dead games by Telltale Games before you’ve probably been hiding under an old, mossy rock, but that’s OK because now’s the time to fix your mistakes. The Walking Dead games are based off the world in Robert Kirkman’s graphic novels, but all have their own unique stories and characters from the graphic novels and TV show. The game plays very much like the rest of Telltale’s games, which are modeled after the classic point-and-click adventure games on the PC that were most popular in the 80’s and 90’s. To say these games have completely revived the genre is an understatement, and that’s a testament to just how bloody good they are. The characters, stories, dialog and action are all top notch, and will have you on the edge of your seat the entire time, feeling for the people that die and making decisions between who lives and dies feel more real than any other game probably has. The first episode is free, while episodes 2 through 5, and the short story “400 Days” are going to cost you a little extra. Make sure to buy the season pass to get all the content at a discounted rate!
The Walking Dead: Season 2
Those who haven’t played The Walking Dead: Season 1 need to begin that first, as Season 2 is a direct continuation of the story that ends at the end of Season 1. I’m not going to spoil anything and purposefully picked a generic picture of Season 2 just so that you don’t know what’s going on in the story if you haven’t finished the first one. Season 2 is just as suspenseful and masterful as the first season, and Telltale has made decisions and dialog trees more prominent in this season than the last. There aren’t as many large areas to explore, and while that’s a bit of a downside considering how enjoyable those always end up being, the choices you make in the game more than make up for the lack of exploration. It doesn’t feel like any more linear of a game for it simply because there are so many other small decisions in dialog along the way. The pricing structure is the same as the first season, with the first episode being free and the rest able to be purchased either individually or via a season pass for a discount. Do not miss out on this series, you’d be doing yourself a huge disservice!
Plants vs. Zombies 2
Another sequel to a successful original game, Plants vs Zombies 2 takes the concept from the original and builds upon it massively. The game is laid out like a checker board, and the goal is to keep the zombies from getting from the outside world on the right to your property on the left. You place plants on the checkered lawn area in the middle, which is made up of a handful of rows, and the zombies make their way from right to left in each row. The plants each have their own unique abilities, some attack while others provide all-important sun-power to place additional plants. The game sounds silly at first, but once you start playing you’re pretty much guaranteed to be hooked, especially if you’re a fan of tower defense, puzzle or strategy games. PvZ2 takes place in an ever-expanding universe of time-travel, so there’s plenty of unique new zombies, plants and settings for you to play. Free to play is the name of the game here, so give it a shot and see if it’s worth plunking down hard-earned dollars to get an extra boost or content.
Zombie Tsunami
Zombie Tsunami is all about turning the living into the dead; quite the opposite of most zombie games out there! An endless side-scrolling runner full of power-ups and mayhem, Zombie Tsunami is utterly fantastic and just downright pure fun, and will likely have you coming back day after day to best your previous score. You begin with a single zombie running to the right through a city, with the goal of eating humans along the way and making them join your horde. After a while the entire screen is practically filled with zombies and it becomes difficult to see where you are going; part of the difficulty and charm of the game. The art style is straight up silly and lends to the humor of the game, which introduces ninja zombies, linebacker zombies and a host of other special power-ups that get you through each level. There are over 300 missions and the game is free to play, so get cracking on it!
Into the Dead
Imagine you’re running for your life, trying to get to safety but everything is foggy and hard to see, and worse yet zombies are infesting nearly every square foot of your path! That’s the concept behind Into the Dead, which is an endless runner in the first-person perspective, requiring you to move left and right to avoid the zombies as you run though fields, woods, jungles and other areas to get to safety. Weapons are included but should only be used in emergencies as ammo is scarce and power-ups are few. Challenge friends to see who can get the furthest, and new modes and content are always being added to keep you coming back. Unlike some of the other zombie games here this one is intense and downright scary at times, so play with the lights off and headphones on to get the full experience. This is another free to play game with in-game purchases, so yet again give it a shot and see if it’s your cup of tea.
The Walking Dead: Assault
Another Walking Dead game, you say? Why, yes, of course, since it’s based upon the most popular zombie fantasy world of all time, it’s pretty easy to come up with new and different concepts and stories to fill it with. This time The Walking Dead Assault takes place in the graphic novel’s story, playing as Rick and a host of other familiar characters as they fight their way through the zombie hoard to scavenge supplies and take them back to your friends and allies. The game is all about strategy, taking place from a top-down perspective and forcing you to think before you make your next move, not unlike a twisted game of chess. Google Play Games integration assures that you’ll be competing with your friends for high scores, unlocking achievements and coming back when content is added to this masterful strategy title. The Walking Dead Assault is $2.99 and offers additional in-app purchases for more content and such.
Zombies, Run!
Zombies, Run! is a game that actually makes you exercise in order to play it. It’s been around for a few years now, but the developers have added new stories, content and seasons along that time frame, keeping the action fresh and giving you a good excuse to pick up running every year. The concept is simple: you start off by yourself, confused by what’s going on only to find zombies trying to kill you along the way. You run into a camp of survivors and as a token of your appreciation decide to help everyone else out by running to destinations to scavenge for supplies that you can bring back to everyone. The story itself it written by novelist Naomi Alderman, so you know it’s good and will keep you intrigued along the way, and the spoken dialog and sound effects make this as real as the zombie apocalypse will probably ever be. It’s literally a game that interacts with your world, forcing you to run from zombies and tracks your fitness patterns while doing it. $3.99 is the entrance fee, and additional seasons generally cost extra.
Zombie Puzzle Panic
Those familiar with match 3 puzzle games and lovers of zombies will find themselves right at home in award-winning developer’s Noodlecake Studios’ latest game. Taking the age-old concept of matching colored board pieces together to score points, Zombie Puzzle Panic has an obvious zombie twist on the whole formula that ranges from matching blocks next to zombies to blow them up, to making super pieces to eliminate all the zombies on the board. It’s a level-based puzzle game that has an overworld much like Plants vs Zombies, but the gameplay of something like Candy Crush Saga and a 1950’s post-apocalyptic world theme. The game is free to play and there are also in-app purchases to unlock additional content.
Plight of the Zombie
An oldie but goodie, Plight of the Zombie hasn’t been updated in two years, but for those who have never played it there’s no way to tell that this isn’t a brand new game. Featuring fantastic visuals and brain-twisting strategy gameplay, Plight of the Zombie takes place from Craig’s position, a lovable zombie that’s just hungry for brains. Your goal is to turn all the humans in each level into zombie friends by eating their brains, and collecting extra brains just laying around along the way for bonus points. The first 30 levels are free and there are a handful of additional level packs for a buck each, making this a cheap strategy fare that’s going to last you for hours. Some puzzles are downright difficult and will take you plenty of times to solve, while others rely on coaxing you into collecting all the additional brains in the level. Good, clean zombie fun to be had here, with some great humor and fantastic puzzle solving. It never gets old. | {
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Getting the right grip with English Ivy's powerful grasp
2 years ago
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New York: Learning about English ivy plant's natural glue can lead to better medical adhesives and stronger armor for the military, researchers report.Famous naturalist Charles Darwin had discovered ivy’s sticking power which is because of a thin yellow glue secreted from its roots.Now, the team from The Ohio State University have discovered the tiny particles responsible for ivy's ability to latch on so tight to trees and buildings that it can withstand hurricanes and tornadoes - not to mention infuriate those trying to rid their homes of the vigorous green climber.The researchers pinpointed the spherical particles within English ivy's adhesive and identified the primary protein within them.“By understanding the proteins that give rise to ivy's strength, we can give rise to approaches to engineer new bio-inspired adhesives for medical and industry products," said Mingjun Zhang, biomedical engineering professor who led the work.“It's a milestone to resolve this mystery. We now know the secret of this adhesive and the underlying molecular mechanism," said Zhang in a paper appeared in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.Ivy has these very tiny hairy structures that have a wonderful interaction with the surface as the plant climbs.It's very difficult to tear down, even in a natural disaster. It's one of the strongest adhesive forces in nature.When the team took a look at the ivy's glue with a powerful atomic-force microscope, they were able to identify a previously unknown element in its adhesive.The tiny particles inside the glue on their laboratory slides turned out to be primarily made up of arabinogalactan proteins.They discovered that the driving force behind the curing of the glue was a calcium-mediated interaction between the proteins and pectin in the gelatinous liquid that oozes from ivy as it climbs.Zhang said particles rich in those proteins have exceptional adhesive abilities - abilities that could be used to the advantage of many, from biomedical engineers to paint makers.When climbing, ivy secretes tiny nanoparticles which make initial surface contact. Due to their high uniformity and low viscosity, they can attach to large areas on various surfaces.After the water evaporates, a chemical bond forms. “It's really a nature-made amazing mechanism for high-strength adhesion," Zhang said.The glue doesn't just sit on the surface of the object that the ivy is clinging to.It finds its way into openings invisible to the naked eye, further solidifying its bond.“In addition to its strength, ivy adhesive has other properties that make it appealing to scientists looking for answers to engineering quandaries,” Zhang added.Ivy is very resistant to various environmental conditions which makes the adhesive a particularly interesting candidate for the development of armour coatings.Ivy is also considered a pest because it can be destructive to buildings and bridges.
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This Viral Video Of A Very Excited Little Girl Meeting Michelle Obama Will Put A Smile On Your Face 😍
While signing books, Obama received some pretty special hugs from a little girl named Solice. The child was overcome with joy at meeting her hero, and the happiness was overflowing. The exchange was captured on video and shared to Twitter, where it has received more than four million views.
This one is so sweet that we imagine there are plenty of repeat watchers.
People had to wipe away tears to see their screens.
A whole lot of people "weren't crying" — so, of course, they all were.
The old zodiac signs are so played out—they've been around for hundreds of years, and it's time for something new! Fortunately, Twitter user @g_pratimaaa has come up with a way to determine your new and improved zodiac marker. Simply type "Florida man" and your birthday into Google and whatever comes up represents you at a cosmic level!
Anyone near downtown Los Angeles on the evening of Wednesday, March 20th, may have just thought the Earth was in a bit more danger than we're generally comfortable with. Countless people looked up that night to see what appeared to be a meteor falling from the sky into the greater LA area, and many captured video of the event.
Pixar has made plenty of beloved movies at this point (20, as of 2018), and they continue to create more. One of the most highly anticipated is Toy Story 4, and in the recently released trailer, Pixar made a reference to one of their earliest films. | {
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Category Archives: Grow Your Own
Why is it a good thing to encourage hedgehogs to your garden or allotment plot?
Well one reason is hedgehogs feast on insects, including pesky caterpillars, slugs and snails, often consuming over 200g of bugs every night, great news for getting rid of slugs. This will balance out your garden’s natural ecosystem, making it much more balanced as you introduce a natural predator rather than putting down poison or slug traps. (which are horrid to empty). Plus hedgehogs are super cute and fun to watch!
1. Introduce hedging Hedgehogs like to hunt and rest under these plants for protection. Introduce hedges such as beech, holly, hawthorn and yew (pictured below) as barriers around your plot instead of wooden or metal fencing to create easy access to your crops that need a helping hand
2. Provide food and water A garden pond is a great source of drinking water for these creatures, as long as you provide an easy exit in case they fall in. Hedgehog food is available to buy which can be left out in the evenings – alternatively, try using meat-based pet food.
3. Create shelter Compost heaps and piles of logs in a quiet space on your plot make perfect resting places for hedgehogs. They provide protection from predators and a way of escaping higher temperatures during the day.
4. Leave a part of your plot to grow wild It may seem counterproductive to many tidy gardeners, but leaving just a small corner of your growing space unattended will encourage more food for hedgehogs such as various beetles that won’t be of any harm to your crops. This makes it more likely for them to stay close by.
5. Keep pets away Larger animals such as cats and dogs may frighten hedgehogs that appear in your garden overnight. To help them feel safe in this environment, make sure your pets are kept away from secluded areas where these creatures are likely to be hunting in the evening. It’s also important to protect any food left out from being eaten by your furry companions.
In order to help hedgehogs, gardeners should avoid using slug pellets because, as well as hedgehogs helping you get rid of a slug problem naturally, the pellets can also kill hedgehogs and even if they don’t eat the pellets directly, if the slugs they eat have been poisoned, this will also be absorbed into the hedgehogs’ body tissue too. You can supplement a hedgehog’s natural diet especially in autumn when they need to accumulate fat before they go into hibernation for the winter.
What to feed hedgehogs
Tinned cat or dog food and even dry dog food is a useful addition to a hedgehog’s diet. They’ll also eat things like bacon rind. You should also ensure that you put out fresh water with any food you leave but you shouldn’t feed a hedgehog milk or bread in large amounts as they can cause diarrhoea.
“Whole books have been written about garlic, an herb affectionately called “the stinking rose” in light of its numerous therapeutic benefits. A member of the lily or Allium family, which also includes onions and leeks, garlic is rich in a variety of powerful sulfur-containing compounds including thiosulfinates (of which the best known compound is allicin), sulfoxides (among which the best known compound is alliin), and dithiins (in which the most researched compound is ajoene). While these compounds are responsible for garlic’s characteristically pungent odor, they are also the source of many of its health-promoting effects.
More recent research has identified additional sulfur-containing compounds that are responsible for garlic’s star status as a health-supporting food. These sulfur compounds include 1,2-vinyldithiin (1,2-DT), and thiacremonone. The hydrogen sulfide gas (H2S) that can be made from garlic’s sulfides has also been the subject of great research interest. When produced and released from our red blood cells, this H2S gas can help dilate our blood vessels and help keep our blood pressure under control.” Sourced from whfoods.com
I was very sporadic in my garlic planting last year and would like to get with it and grow enough garlic so I don’t have to buy any next year, I did work it out we would need to plant something like 140 bulbs to come anywhere close as we use so much in cooking, at the moment with Tom being on his fodmap diet this number has reduced but I will still need to plant a lot! So with this in mind, I searched for some tips and found this great piece on The Telegraph today:
September is not too early to be thinking about next summer’s garlic crop. Garden centres stock a few varieties, but there is an increasing range available. Order early from a specialist supplier such as thegarlicfarm.co.uk to ensure top-quality seed garlic.
Garlic is easy to grow but needs a period of low temperatures for plants to bulb up. Planting in autumn (October-November) or early spring provides the necessary chilling period.
Choose an open sunny site and well-drained soil or grow in raised beds. Garlic does well on soils manured for a previous crop. Otherwise, add a couple of buckets of manure per sq yd.
Apply a general fertiliser, such as Growmore, at planting time at 2oz per sq yd (50g per sq m) followed by a light dressing of 1oz sq yd (25g sq m) of sulphate of potash in February.
Break up the bulb into individual cloves, selecting the largest for planting and using the remainder in the kitchen. Plant an inch deep (slightly deeper on light soils), 6in (15cm) apart with 1ft (30cm) between rows.
On heavy, wet soils, start off garlic in module or cell trays in autumn, overwinter them in a cold frame and plant out in spring.
Keep garlic weed-free for good yields. In spring, during dry spells, water every 14 days. To reduce fungal diseases water the ground and not the foliage.
As foliage yellows in summer, stop watering.
Harvest autumn-planted garlic in early summer and spring-planted from mid-summer. Don’t leave them too long in the ground or bulbs will open up, which reduces storage quality.
Dry bulbs in the sun or greenhouse or a well-ventilated shed for two to four weeks.
Garlic suffers from similar pests and diseases to onions. The most common problem is rust, which can cover foliage in orange pustules. To avoid this, plant into fresh ground each year.
There are two main types of garlic. Hardnecks produce flower stems and fewer larger cloves of stronger flavour. They rarely store beyond mid-winter. Softnecks store better, autumn plantings lasting to late winter and spring plantings to mid-spring. Elephant garlic is related to leeks. It produces a small number of very large cloves of mild flavour. Best planted in October.
I have been using shop bought garlic to plant and its not really worked very well so I am going to try some bulbs from the seed shop and see how they fare, wish me luck! if you have grown garlic with great success I would love to hear from you.
We live in Blackpool which is a seaside resort in the Northwest of UK, population of roughly 142,000, so we are a large town. Contrary to popular belief from my photos, we live in a terrace house surrounded by neighbours and the normal trappings of large town life. So until we get our dream home in the countryside what do we do to have a lesser impact on the environment and to live a ‘back to nature’ way of life. A simple guide to our low impact living.
We spent another Sunday afternoon at the allotment today, after upgrading from a half plot to full size it’s been hard work, there is so much prep to do, the soil is very heavy clay and every time it rains it ends up flooded. Weeds appear overnight and the seeds don’t grow!
One thing that is doing well are the fruit trees, if nothing else we will have an abundance of fruit to eat!
Spearmint is a sweet, mild herb that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants such as vitamin A, C, B-complex, beta carotene, iron, magnesium, calcium, manganese, and potassium. Spearmint is wonderful for digestion, nausea, indigestion, ulcers, halitosis, and flatulence.
It can also provide relief from headaches, sinus congestion, sore throats, fatigue, stress, and anxiety. Spearmint can also help to promote blood circulation and improve metabolism making it an excellent choice for cleansing and weight loss. Spearmint is also beneficial for respiratory issues such as bronchitis, asthma, and respiratory inflammation.
You can easily grow spearmint, but grow it in a pot as it is fast spreading, you can even bury the pot in the ground so it contains its roots from spreading everywhere. You can add a few leaves to your smoothie or your fruit salad. It is a delicious flavor combination and provides an added mineral and antioxidant boost!
You can dry your spearmint (or any mint you grow) by tying bunches of it together and hanging it upside down in a dry room, pantry or kitchen, when it crisps up and it easily crumbles it is ready to put into pots that will last throughout the winter. You can use it in cooking and make herbal tea with it. It is so refreshing and makes your mouth feel clean and eases bloating when drank daily.
I spent a lovely afternoon in the sunshine today at our plot, did some weeding and dug over a bed ready for planting, planted some seed potatoes that were on offer (I normally just sprout my own in a dark cupboard), built up the next layer of compost with grass cuttings, veg peelings, coffee dregs and horse poo and then sat on a bench we made from bricks and a scaffolding plank and closed my eyes and listened to the birds and the sounds of nature all around me. It was amazing, I remembered when we first got the phone call to say we could have an allotment I said to Tom (my partner) which plot I thought it was, we had visited plenty of times on open day so knew the plots quite well, it was a middle plot with fruit trees on, when we visited to view our new plot it wasn’t that one, it was right at the far end with no trees, it was only today I realised when we moved from the half plot to this double plot just over a month ago I was sitting next to the original plot I dreamed about and our new plot has loads of fruit trees on it too!
Sometimes after a hard days work you need something comforting, warm and cosy in a bowl and this plum and blackberry crumble with dairy free custard did the trick.
It was so good I wanted seconds but it had all gone!
I used the last of our foraged blackberries which I had been storing in the freezer since last year and bought plums as our plum tree is not ready to bear fruit yet, wait till it does, I will be going plum recipe mad!!
As the prices of things go up a lot more people are being careful of what they spend or even making a choice of putting money on the electric or buying food, it’s all about budgeting and spending wisely, so I want to offer you a series of handy tip and ideas on how to budget and spend a little but still eat healthily, and make conscious ethical choices.
I have heard many times “we can’t afford to eat organic” or “we can’t afford to buy coconut oil at £6 a jar”, I understand this mindset but it is really all about prioritising and finding a way which works for you, you can do you best and that IS good enough for this moment in time, do consider though not only will you be saving money buy not impulse buying when there is nothing left for tea, you will also be making yourself and your family feel healthy and free of disease.
I have found just chatting to people, not many are actually invested or connected to the food they eat, eating is a massive part of our lives, in the western world where there is an abundance of food, it is almost taken for granted that there will be food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. That if you have the money you can walk into a shop or supermarket and have your pick of any food you desire, and that is where the connection has been lost, food from all over the world is sold, hundreds and sometimes thousands of miles from coming out of the ground to reaching your plate.
It has been pretty frosty here in Blackpool, UK for the past few nights and a little flurry of snow fell but by morning it had disappeared, we go up to the allotment about once a week at the moment to collect veg and clear up the dead leaves, have a general tidy up and get the beds ready for spring. This is the first winter having the plot and we started quite late planting as we got our allotment 31st May 2014.
We still have sprouts, kale, curly kale and cabbages growing and are ready for eating, the garlic we planted is growing nicely and should be ready for early spring. | {
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Acceptance is the new black
For most of my adult life, I’ve been a pretty well-adjusted human, all things considered.
That’s what I would have told you 12 months ago, anyway. I’ve been on a bit of a journey of self-discovery since then, and no, that’s not code for “self-indulgent mid-life crisis.” Ask the trauma psychologist I’ve been seeing fortnightly (not that she’s allowed to tell you anything).
Confronting the parts of myself that are dysfunctional has been devastating at times, liberating at others. Exhausting, too–it’s hard work to reflect deeply on the ways you’re under the influence of your past, to regularly articulate your thoughts and feelings to a therapist, and to work steadily on the changes that are needed for a more functional future.
But the biggest challenge, I think, has been learning not to resist each new discovery about myself. If I hadn’t found a way to accept the Luke who materialised, piece by piece, during each psych visit–the real Luke, flawed and broken but growing and healing–I would either be deeply depressed, or still at square one, believing myself to be well-adjusted.
Sometimes I wonder if I’m just a hypochondriac, working up medical excuses for decades of bad habits and faulty decisions. That would be easier to deal with than this continuous loop of memories, reactions, therapy, research, reflection, and practice. But I’ve slowly learned to accept this new picture of myself, gaining knowledge along the way. And knowledge, they say, is power.
It started with panic attacks I could no longer pretend were anything else. They could be triggered just by seeing my mother’s car, or a car that looked like hers, and they would totally immobilise me. I had no choice but to accept that I was experiencing debilitating panic attacks and needed help. (On reflection, they had been happening for a while–racing heart, uncontrollable shaking, irrational thoughts–I just didn’t recognise them.)
It took a few weeks to find a psychologist who specialised in treating adults with childhood-related trauma (given interactions with my parents were my main triggers, I figured this would be a good place to start). She quickly formed the opinion that my symptoms were consistent with unresolved trauma from child abuse, and that I’d need significantly more sessions than Medicare would cover to get on top of it. She recommended applying for funding from NSW Victims Services.
I did, and it was granted, but it took some time for me to accept that my childhood was “abusive” (I wouldn’t have gone much further than “strange” or “volatile” previously). It took even longer to accept that seeking help as a “victim” was a reasonable course of action under the circumstances. (Even now, my sister is skeptical when I describe my childhood in these terms. Turns out her childhood was awful in different ways to mine–and that it’s not unusual for this to be the case.)
In time, as I progressed through therapy, it became necessary to accept that I’m dealing with C-PTSD. “Complex” PTSD is a form of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder that’s brought on by sustained abuse over an extended period. Here’s a quote from Wikipedia’s C-PTSD article that should help explain my reluctance to accept this diagnosis:
Researchers concluded that C-PTSD is distinct from, but similar to PTSD, somatization disorder, dissociative identity disorder, and borderline personality disorder, with the main distinctions being that it distorts a person’s core identity, and involves significant emotional dysregulation.
Then there’s the fact that most of my significant decisions as an adult have been the result of subconscious self-sabotage. This realisation, when it finally sank in, knocked me around for days. Refusal to pursue academic success in any field? Choosing to work as a photographer because it was the opposite of what my parents had groomed me for? Starting a family with a controlling but superficially lovely woman? All of these, and many more, were subconscious attempts to give my abusive father no success to claim for himself.
It gets worse: in many cases, I have subconsciously set people up to be disappointed or angry with me, anticipating they will abuse me like he did, believing it’s what I deserve. I thought I was lazy, or unproductive due to obsessive perfectionism, or pathologically horrible (despite genuinely good intentions). The truth is much more awful.
Accepting that so many of my choices have been so destructive for so long has been tough, but so has accepting other people’s lack of acceptance. Whether they’ve spurned my lack of compliance with their rules (e.g. “marriage is forever, no exceptions”), or couldn’t deal with me describing my childhood as abusive, huge swathes of my pre-2016 network of family and friends–even my own brother–have quietly but definitively asserted that they would prefer not to acknowledge my existence any more than necessary. Although I had anticipated most of this (ditching the church and my marriage was always going to have consequences), the depth and extent of the judgement and rejection has been confronting enough to create moments of significant doubt, anxiety and depression.
Thankfully, between my real friends (whose friendship has always been unconditional), a bunch of new friends, and a new family, I’ve received more than enough acceptance to get through those moments.
There will, no doubt, be much more to accept as I work towards being the best possible version of myself. But I’m thankful for what I can already see, and determined to make the best of it all. | {
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However, I am here to make the case for birding California. Northeastern California. This lovely corner of California is vast, beautiful, sparsely populated, and very wild. Northwestern California. Northern California pelagics (Monterey Bay north to Humboldt County). Destinations California hotspots I Am Birder
After all, California Audubon’s site states that “This is a conservation award. These Burrowing Owl photos were taken at a rare breeding site in Vacaville California. One way we can do that is by voting for the Burrowing Owl as the California Audubon Bird of the Year in 2013. 'How does that sound for a headline?
For whatever reason, however, yesterday on my way to work my mind wasn’t with our upcoming spring, but with September’s in California. saw a wagtail there once, which was exceptionally cool for California (I’m told). California Sea Lions porpoised through the clear water. Pigeon Guillemot late in the season.
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As of 27 August 2013 the California Bird Records Committee has voted to add the introduced Nutmeg Mannikin to the state checklist. Or, as Seagull Steve puts it : The dreaded Nutmeg Mannikin has been added to California’s official state list by the California Bird Records Committee (aka Bird Police). 'Finally! punctulata.
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A measure to ban the practice of shark finning has achieved final passage on a bipartisan vote in the state of California. The new law will ban the sale, purchase or possession in California of shark fins, which are consistently used in Chinese cooking. Eco News shark fin ban california shark finning
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In a move that’s sure to stir controversy far beyond the borders of California, federal officials have announced that h enceforth, fledgling Peregrine Falcons won’t be relocated from nests built on bridges in the state. News California Conservation endangered species Peregrine Falcon The ruling was handed down by the U.S.
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But we are seeing them in California. Birds California Intergrade Northern Flicker woodpeckers 'The Northern Flicker ( Colaptes auratus ) is the third largest woodpecker in North America if you count the Ivory-billed Woodpecker. It is smaller than the Pileated Woodpecker. Both sexes have salmon red underwings and tail. Q2n_LS1zMjA.
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Palin Pregnancy Rocks Political World
The news that Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin's 17-year-old unmarried daughter is pregnant rocked the political world Monday almost as much as Palin's joining the Republican ticket did just three days ago.
The announcement sought to put to rest a potentially damaging Internet rumor concerning the parentage of Palin's infant son. It also showcases one of Palin's strengths as a candidate: the perception that she is a "real" person who has coped with setbacks that average Americans face every day.
For the latest on Hurricane Gustav, watch "Gustav Storms the Gulf" on a special edition of "20/20" at 10 p.m. ET
But by the same token, the pregnancy raises complicated questions for conservative voters regarding issues of teenage sexual activity. And -- perhaps more troubling for the McCain-Palin ticket -- the revelation comes during a critical period where voters are just beginning to learn about Palin and her family.
"Republicans will look at this like it's their primarily their family's business and the fact that they're keeping the baby underscores Palin's personal commitment to life issues," said Matthew Dowd, a former top strategist to President Bush and an ABC News contributor.
"This is not a problem unless it becomes the first in a series of such revelations that makes this look like the last of the Alaskan wild sort of thing," Dowd said.
The news -- released to the public on the first day of a Republican National Convention severely truncated by Hurricane Gustav -- sent shockwaves through St. Paul, the convention site. Many Republicans expressed relief that the timeline of her pregnancy apparently means that Internet reports that Palin pretended to be the mother of a child who was actually her daughter's cannot be true.
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Democratic nominee Barack Obama Monday said his campaign will not make a political issue of the Palin daughter's pregnancy. He told reporters while campaigning in Michigan that a candidate's family is "off limits and people's children are especially off limits," pointing out that his own mother gave birth to him at 18.
Several delegates contacted by ABC News said they were not bothered by the fact that Palin's daughter is pregnant. Several said the revelation -- and particularly the fact that Bristol Palin plans to have the baby and marry the father -- gives them more respect for the Palin family.
"It's a situation that many Americans have faced, she just happens to be on the presidential ticket," said Texas delegate Russell Martinez, 40. "Situations like this can affect you no matter who you are."
Wearing a button with flashing red lights that reads "the LIFE of the party, Republican National Convention 2008" Donna Crocker, 69, a Texas delegate, said it's good Palin came out early with the revelation.
"I think the fact that Palin's out in front with it is really a very god thing. My prayers are with the family," Crocker said.
"The fact that her daughter's keeping it and marrying the father is wonderful. It's a human life and she is respecting that," Crocker said of Bristol Palin.
"This is absolutely the best thing they could do," said Oklahoma delegate Angie LaPlante, 46, of Bristol Palin's decision to keep the baby. "This is the best thing, pro-life decision and it shows Palin is being supportive," she said. | {
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After the patched up BMW 7 Series a year ago and all-new BMW 5 Series this year, BMWs next real venture among the mass-offering cars will be the cutting edge BMW 3 Series. The upgraded 3 Series is at present being worked on and being tried in Europe, with its presentation slated in 2018.Based on a spy shot of the auto, BIMMERPOST discussion part Paul-Bracq-BMW has made a computerized outline of the seventh era BMW 3 Series with the new family lines drawn from the most recent 5 Series and 7 Series models. The 3 Series being the most youthful of the organizations worldwide car line-up, ought to have the sportiest styling of them all.
Samsung's annual IFA presser is typically its Galaxy Note coming-out party and this year is no different. JK Shin, the Korean company's President and CEO, has just announced the line's latest addition: the Galaxy Note 3. With a renewed emphasis on how it feels in hand, Samsung has built this Note with a faux-leather back, which should go a long way towards silencing critics of the company's former plastic-reliant ways. It also comes pre-loaded with Knox, the company's secure BYOD solution, support for super-fast LTE Category 4, runs Android 4.3 and touts integration with the just announced Galaxy Gear smartwatch.
The new Galaxy Note 3 stretches past the dimensions of its predecessor with a 5.7-inch Super AMOLED screen (vs 5.5-inches), 2.3GHz Snapdragon 800 or 1.9GHz Exynos Octa CPU, 3GB RAM, weighs 168 grams and comes in three distinct colors -- one of which is pink (!). On the inside, the Note 3's been imbued with a 3,200mAh cell -- hopefully, that's enough juice to carry on the line's phenomenal battery life. The rear camera is of the 13-megapixel variety and packs optical image stabilization for HD video recording. As for its release date, Shin did confirm that it will ship in 32GB and 64GB versions globally beginning on September 25th, and in October for the US and Japan.
As you might expect, no new Samsung device can be unleashed on the public without a slew of software features and this Note 3 doesn
Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi addressed a function to commemorate the landmark achievement of Polio Free India at a special function at New Delhi's Talkatora Indoor Stadium. President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare Ghulam Nabi Azad and WHO Director General Margaret Chan were also among those present on the occasion. "India took a lead in introducing bivalent polio vaccine in January 2010 and despite a global shortage India tapped the domestic market to ensure timely supply."Sonia Gandhi said.
Introducing the fenix 5 Series
Garmin fenix 5 series multisport GPS watches are the hard-working, smart-looking wearables that put the best in fitness training and outdoor navigation on your wrist. They’re packed with sport features such as wrist-based heart rate, built-in activity profiles and performance metrics. Plus, get advanced navigation functions and full-color mapping on the fēnix 5X model, so you can beat yesterday and be sure of getting back.
The top of a mountain is always the bottom of another though I just reached one top and still planning in my mind to climb the next one
You can feel my happiness from this video how much excited I am to be here.
PS - My channel is dedicated to my much beloved n most missed Father - Mr. Kulwant Singh. He was, is and will always be in my heart to heal it whenever it gets hurt. He's living this life through me.
Disclaimer : All products used in my videos, regardless of whether the is sponsored or not, are the products i like using. the information provided on this channel is only for general purposes and should NOT be considered as professional advice. I am not a licensed Professional or a medical practitioner , so always make sure you consult a professional in case of need.
Do you think celebs ranging from Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Alia Bhatt and Deepika Padukone to the famous Canadian singer Justin Bieber, need a makeover? Let's find out as #fame School Of Style's vlogger, Priyanka Shah, takes us to the streets of Mumbai to find out which celebrity needs to reinvent themselves!!
Watch this video and let's check what Mumbai has to say about the various celebs and why they need to change themselves!
Don't forget to share your outlook on taking control of oneself in the comments section below.
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After the patched up BMW 7 Series a year ago and all-new BMW 5 Series this year, BMWs next real venture among the mass-offering cars will be the cutting edge BMW 3 Series. The upgraded 3 Series is at present being worked on and being tried in Europe, with its presentation slated in 2018.Based on a spy shot of the auto, BIMMERPOST discussion part Paul-Bracq-BMW has made a computerized outline of the seventh era BMW 3 Series with the new family lines drawn from the most recent 5 Series and 7 Series models. The 3 Series being the most youthful of the organizations worldwide car line-up, ought to have the sportiest styling of them all.
Samsung's annual IFA presser is typically its Galaxy Note coming-out party and this year is no different. JK Shin, the Korean company's President and CEO, has just announced the line's latest addition: the Galaxy Note 3. With a renewed emphasis on how it feels in hand, Samsung has built this Note with a faux-leather back, which should go a long way towards silencing critics of the company's former plastic-reliant ways. It also comes pre-loaded with Knox, the company's secure BYOD solution, support for super-fast LTE Category 4, runs Android 4.3 and touts integration with the just announced Galaxy Gear smartwatch.
The new Galaxy Note 3 stretches past the dimensions of its predecessor with a 5.7-inch Super AMOLED screen (vs 5.5-inches), 2.3GHz Snapdragon 800 or 1.9GHz Exynos Octa CPU, 3GB RAM, weighs 168 grams and comes in three distinct colors -- one of which is pink (!). On the inside, the Note 3's been imbued with a 3,200mAh cell -- hopefully, that's enough juice to carry on the line's phenomenal battery life. The rear camera is of the 13-megapixel variety and packs optical image stabilization for HD video recording. As for its release date, Shin did confirm that it will ship in 32GB and 64GB versions globally beginning on September 25th, and in October for the US and Japan.
As you might expect, no new Samsung device can be unleashed on the public without a slew of software features and this Note 3 doesn
Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi addressed a function to commemorate the landmark achievement of Polio Free India at a special function at New Delhi's Talkatora Indoor Stadium. President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare Ghulam Nabi Azad and WHO Director General Margaret Chan were also among those present on the occasion. "India took a lead in introducing bivalent polio vaccine in January 2010 and despite a global shortage India tapped the domestic market to ensure timely supply."Sonia Gandhi said.
This Video Explains About Cooking Of Traditional Poha TOmato Recipe .Similar to how Idli and Upma are traditional breakfast recipes of Southern India, Poha is traditional and widely preferred breakfast recipe in Western states of India. This recipe is known as Pohe in Maharashtra and Poha in Gujarat and follows the same preparation method with poha (rice flakes) being the main ingredient. Since chopped potato pieces are also usually added to this recipe, this healthy breakfast is also referred as Aloo Pohe and Batata Poha in Maharashtra and Gujarat respectively. This Poha Recipe with step by step photo guide makes it extremely easy to make it at home and also provides tips about how to give it your preferred regional touch.
Christmas cake show delights visitors in Coimbatore
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Catch is a contemporary new digital platform about the ideas and events shaping the world. It aims to filter and provide news-on-the-run for an impatient new generation. It offers greater insight for influencers and the deeper consumer of news. When opinions are shrill and polarized, we hope to create a middle ground and build bridges. When there is a set thinking, we hope to stand apart and go against the wind. The world is complex, exciting, layered, evolving, always interesting. We hope to be the same.
Lots of videos and lots more in the pipeline. Stay tuned.Watch Christmas cake show delights visitors in Coimbatore With HD Quality
Another video of our Best Fat Loss and Toning Workout that you can do at home. We start with warm ups then work our way into the exercise. We cover the major muscles in the body to burn most fat. We've talked about this many times. This is a full body best fat loss workout that you can easily do anywhere.
Make sure to follow a proper diet in order to achieve maximum results! A great full body fat loss workout will definitely require a good diet to get the best and optimal results.
This is an At HOME Fat Loss Series for Women and Men. Yes, Men can do this workout at home as well. If you are someone who can't go to the gym, or doesn't have time in their busy schedule to go to the gym, or don't have a car, or the gym is too far, this series is definitely for you.
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WOMEN FAT LOSS AT HOME SERIES WORKOUT!
Remember if you want to lose fat, follow the 100 day series:
WOMEN FAT LOSS AT HOME SERIES WORKOUT!
100 Day FAT LOSS Series is in playlist:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5qo1Sl2GW3feTa_uX6Q0gXrPEpF6YH6o
Bonus Workouts in this playlist:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5qo1Sl2GW3dTZik5vEHAG8Tv3_L_WER6
All diet plans are in Diet Plan Playlist:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5qo1Sl2GW3fwgRrOHPst7NOYNSQ4IylD
Demonetisation is biggest scam in world: Rahul Gandhi
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Catch is a contemporary new digital platform about the ideas and events shaping the world. It aims to filter and provide news-on-the-run for an impatient new generation. It offers greater insight for influencers and the deeper consumer of news. When opinions are shrill and polarized, we hope to create a middle ground and build bridges. When there is a set thinking, we hope to stand apart and go against the wind. The world is complex, exciting, layered, evolving, always interesting. We hope to be the same.
Lots of videos and lots more in the pipeline. Stay tuned.Watch Demonetisation is biggest scam in world: Rahul Gandhi With HD Quality | {
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More than 100,000 students have participated in Strathcona’s unique outdoor education programs since we imported this style of learning to Canada in 1959. View Schools & Groups
Teachers & Parents
Strathcona Park Lodge
Teachers & Parents
Outdoor education can play an important roll in a student’s career. Shy students shine. New stars emerge. Accomplishments bolster confidence. Bonds form through shared experience. Challenges are overcome. Students learn leadership, team work and initiative. View Teachers & Parents
Youth and Sport Groups
Strathcona Park Lodge
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Strathcona Park Lodge’s core business is creating customized outdoor education programs for groups at our Vancouver Island base. From half day to multi-day programs for groups of two to 200, we have the expertise, infrastructure and staff to accommodate just about any group. View Youth Groups
WYLD Summer Camps
Wilderness Youth Leadership Development (WYLD)
Our Mission is to teach the wonder, spirit, and worth of people and the natural world through outdoor pursuits.
Run in association with Strathcona Park Lodge, Canada’s award winning outdoor education centre, Wilderness Youth Leadership Development (WYLD) Expeditions are summer camps for adventurous tweens and teens, 12 to 17 years old. Based out of the Lodge’s lakeside location, the 8 to 12 day camps explore the hiking trails, lakes, inlets, beaches, islands and mountains of Vancouver Island by foot, sea kayak and canoe. Along the way kids learn life skills, like leadership, problem solving and teamwork, and harder skills, like navigation, canoe strokes and rock climbing.
WYLD Summer Camps
There are four WYLD summer camps each with different itineraries and destinations, but all four teach life long skills.
Self-respect: by setting and achieving goals, students are able to build a healthy confidence that will foster a greater respect for themselves and the people around them.
Self-reliance: instilling the added responsibility involved in wilderness travel helps people to work for themselves. This can help create a sense of independence and personal accomplishment.
Compassion: in working with others and sharing in their hardships and triumphs, one learns compassion as well as a sense of tolerance.
Appreciation and Awareness for the world around us: our classroom takes people away from the convenience of their everyday lives and requires them to live in balance with their surroundings.
Choose from these WYLD Expeditions:
Strathcona Survivor – Qualifies for Gold Duke of Ed
You’ve seen Bear Grylls and Survivorman do it, now it’s your turn to learn how to live off the land with little more than a knife. Make a shelter, light a matchless fire, forage for food and find your way back to civilization all while leaving no trace on the land. After a couple days learning the basic skills at a base camp, campers are dropped off in a remote part of Strathcona Provincial Park. Over the next five days, new challenges present themselves. With an instructor helping when needed, campers work together as they learn to thrive with far less than they probably imagined, while navigating their way to a pick up point for a return trip to the lodge.
Day 1-2: Arrive at the Lodge and learn the skills necessary to survive in the wild. Shelter building, fire lighting, first aid scenarios and more will be covered to ensure that everyone is at the same skill level before heading into the wilderness.
Day 3-10: Get dropped off at a location in Strathcona Provincial and make your way back to the Lodge. Use your skills learned in the previous two days and pick up more survival skills along the way as your instructors assist you on your way back to the Lodge.
The Gold Adventurous Journey will take participants on a multi-day canoe trip of the scenic Sayward Canoe Circuit on Vancouver Island. This 48 km chain of lakes, creeks and portages is an ideal destination for the aspiring canoeist. The trip is designed to specifically meet the criteria of the Gold level of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and includes the preliminary training, two practice journies and expedition. The journey is supervised by two Strathcona Park Lodge outdoor instructors and all group gear, canoes, meals and shuttles are all included.
Prior to the trip participants will receive a worksheet to complete and bring with them to help get started with the preliminary training.
Day 1: Participants will be met in Campbell River or can be dropped off at Strathcona Park Lodge. The first afternoon will be spent getting to know other members of the group and the instructors through a series of group activities. A hearty dinner in the Whale Room will fill you up and prepare you for the first night camping on property. This night counts as the first practice journey for participants entering directly into Gold.
Day 2: Preparations for your Canoe Journey will happen throughout the day, including food planning and packing, a session on the water learning canoe strokes, going over gear and discussing and planning your route as the excitement of your Canoe Journey builds. Canoes and gear will be loaded and onto the trailer ready for the morning as you head to bed for the second night of camping on property, which will count as the second practice journey.
Days 3 – 6: Your trip begins in the morning of day 3 with a short van ride to the put-in point. According to the Duke of Ed participant’s record book, the expedition is to be a demanding journey – and these days will be. From the time you break camp in the mornings until you lay down in your sleeping bag at night, you can expect to paddle, portage and work together to travel over the water and land of this scenic area. Along the way you’ll check out small islands, isolated beaches, stands of old growth trees, and old trestle bridges that are remnants of the logging railroads that used to crisscross the landscape. Your journey ends in the afternoon of day 6 with a pick-up at the take-out point, clean-up, filling in your Duke of Ed record book, dinner in the Whale Room and a celebration.
Day 7: On your final morning say farewell to your new friends, instructors and the Lodge as you head to Campbell River for the trip home or you can be picked up directly from the Lodge. All that is left for you to do is complete your trip report and enjoy the rest of the summer.
Strathcona Park Lodge sits on the edge of the vast lake system in the shadow of Vancouver Island’s highest mountains. The Discovery Expedition brings in the best of both worlds – campers will paddle down fjord-like Buttle Lake with snowcapped mountains all around and hike deep into Strathcona Provincial Park to visit one of its hidden jewels, Landslide Lake.
Day 1: After arriving at Strathcona you’ll meet your fellow Expedition members and your instructors. The instructors will show you around the Lodge and play a few games to get to know your group. You’ll also begin planning your Expedition. Dinner is in the Whale Room and the night is spent at the Lodge.
Day 2: To the High Ropes Course you’ll go. Suspended 40-feet in the air this exciting challenge is a fun introduction to your Expedition. After lunch at the Whale Room you’ll pack canoes and set off for a three day canoe trip. The trip starts on Upper Campbell Lake with its intricate shoreline full of bays and sandy beaches before passing through the narrows into Buttle Lake, and Strathcona Park.
Day 3-4: Exploring coves, bays and river mouths you’ll paddle down Buttle Lake under the towering massifs of snow capped mountains. The scenery is spectacular looking down this long and narrow lake. In camp you’ll work as a team to set up shelter and make meals. You’ll learn about no trace camping, canoe strokes and more. If the wind blows you’ll hoist a sail and relax before returning to Strathcona Park Lodge before lunch on day 4. After lunch you’ll be able to test your climbing skills on one of the rock climbing bluffs and then move onto the bouldering wall where you’ll learn about technique. You’ll then head to a rock cliff near the lodge and you’ll learn rock climbing etiquette, proper harnessing, climbing, belaying and the rappelling technique. After your climb, enjoy a meal in the Whale Room and a night at the Lodge.
Day 5-7: An after-breakfast shuttle will land the group at the Elk River Trail in Strathcona Park – this will be the start of a three day hike. This excellent hike climbs through old growth forest to Landslide Lake, one of the most scenic lakes on Vancouver Island, surrounded by the towering walls of Mount Colonel Foster. This is your group’s opportunity to use everything you have learned to fully manage the navigation, campsite selection and set-up, and meal planning and preparation. Upon completion of your hike, head back for a celebratory feast in the Whale Room and your final night together at the Lodge.
Day 8: After packing up, enjoy a final morning of fun and games before travelling home.
Backcountry Beginnings – Rock Climbing and Multi Day Camping
AGE GROUP: 14-16
Length: 8 DAYS
Cost: $1095
Dates: July 19-26, 2015
Skills: Backcountry Basics, Paddle Strokes, Rock Climbing, Map and Compass
Difficulty Level: Introductory/Moderate
By the end of this moderately challenging backcountry introduction participants will be leading the group as they travel by sea kayak and by foot in the Strathcona Park wilderness.
This introduction to backcountry travel is a sampling of the best of Strathcona’s chunk of paradise: rock climbing and high ropes at Strathcona Park Lodge; day hikes into the Vancouver Island mountains; and a multi-day sea kayak trip on glacier carved lakes. You’ll challenge yourself high off the ground, hike a pristine valley and follow bear and elk tracks across an estuary, all while learning how to be self sufficient in the backcountry.
Day 1: After arriving at Strathcona you’ll meet your fellow Expedition members and your instructors. The instructors will show you around the Lodge and play a few games to get to know your group. You’ll also begin planning your Expedition. Dinner is in the Whale Room and you’ll sleep at the Lodge’s base camp.
Day 2: The high ropes course will be your first challenge. Suspended 40-feet off the ground the ropes, logs and wires are a physical and mental challenge that requires team work and trust to navigate. It’s also a lot of fun. In the afternoon you’ll head down to the water to become familiar with sea kayaking skills, strokes and rescues in preparation for your kayak expedition. Eat and base camp at the lodge.
Day 3: Start the day with another challenge, this time on the rock climbing bluff to learn the basics of climbing, knot tying, rope systems, safety equipment, rappelling and grabbing the rock to climb up. Getting off the ground and reaching the top will require teamwork, trust and perseverance. The feeling of accomplishment at the top is matched by the adrenaline of rappelling back down. After lunch you’ll pack your sea kayak and head out on an adventure.
Day 4-7: Over the next four days you’ll explore Upper Campbell and Buttle lakes. You might take side trips into the river mouths, or look for the perfect swimming spot, or you may just lay back and float enjoying mountain rimmed lakes. A highlight of this expedition is a day hike through the pristine Tlools Valley where you will attempt to reach spectacular Mia falls. Tlools is a wild and rugged old growth valley, home to abundant wildlife. By the last few days you and your group will become self sufficient, you’ll be taking over the decision making from your instructors, you’ll navigate, pick campsites, set up camp, prepare meals and light fires. A celebratory dinner and last night with your group rounds out your WYLD experience.
Day 8: On your final day, paddle back to Strathcona Park Lodge, enjoy a shower, clean up, pack up and head home knowing you have accomplished more than you likely thought possible; proud of your new skills, increased confidence and shared memories.
We’re not sure why more people don’t sea kayak in Nootka Sound, but we’re not complaining. The rugged coast near Gold River on the west side of Vancouver Island is a sea kayaker’s dream. There are dozens of islands, empty beaches, tidal pools galore, coves, inlets and passages to explore and resident whales, sea lions and sea otters to spot. On this 8-day adventure we’ll learn about thousands of years of First Nation history, hundreds of years of European occupation, the tides, weather and ocean navigation all while visiting some of the best campsites on the coast.
Day 1: After arriving at Strathcona you’ll meet your fellow Expedition members and your instructors. As a group you’ll begin planning your trip, including an introduction to sea kayaking skills, strokes and rescues. Dinner is in the Whale Room and the group will sleep at the lodge’s base camp.
Day 2: The adventure beings after breakfast with a van ride to the Nootka Sound. In a quiet marina you’ll pack your kayak and set off across the sheltered waters following the coast of Bligh Island. As you paddle past coves and small beaches you’ll begin to get comfortable in your sea kayak. By late afternoon the group will begin looking for a good place to camp for the night.
Day 3-6: Over the next several days time is spent learning the backcountry basics as well as exploring the islands, beaches and shores of Nootka Sound. You may spend time fishing for dinner, or scrambling around tidal pools teeming with new and exciting sights, or you may just lay back and float, enjoying the peaceful solitude of the Sound. You may visit Friendly Cove where Captain Cook landed in 1778. Here you are introduced to the First Nations people and culture of this region. Being in the wilderness means attending to the essentials. As days pass you will find you have honed many of your camping skills and your group begins to take over more responsibility from your instructors, taking over the navigation, campsite selection and set-up, and meal planning and preparation. It is your opportunity to use everything you have learned to finish your journey and succeed as a team.
Day 7: The last strokes return you and your group to the marina where a van will be waiting to take you back to the Lodge, a warm shower, a celebratory meal and a final night with your group.
Day 8: On your final day campers clean up, pack up and head home knowing you have accomplished more than you likely thought possible; proud of your new skills, increased confidence and shared memories.
Our most challenging camp and a true expedition. Starting at the lodge, participants will paddle by canoe to a trailhead and hike for several days into the alpine culminating in a steep mile long climb to reach the summit of Mount McBride before returning home.
Day 1: After the group arrives at Strathcona Park Lodge they will begin packing and planning the expedition. Dinner is in the Whale Room and the group will sleep at the lodge’s base camp.Our most advanced camp is a 12-day multi-sport expedition. Beginning at Strathcona Park Lodge the group sets out by canoe down Buttle Lake heading for the Marble Meadows Trail, a water access-only backpack route into the Vancouver Island mountains. The trail leads to a huge alpine meadow where several mountains and ridges can be climbed, including snow covered Mount McBride, one of the highest peaks on Vancouver Island. After six days of hiking, its back in the boats for a two day canoe back to the Lodge.
Day 2: With a hearty breakfast out of the way you’ll load the canoes and begin paddling down Upper Campbell Lake. The mountains will get higher and snowier as you head south into Buttle Lake, exploring coves and beaches. After making camp you’ll begin learning the backcountry basics: how to set up shelter, prepare dinner and light a fire.
Day 3: The group will continue down Buttle Lake, passing several river estuaries before arriving at Phillips Creek and the trail to Marble Meadows. Here they will set up one more lake camp and lighten their load before heading into the mountains for six days.
Day 4: The switchbacking trail climbs steadily, passing through old growth forests and onto the edge of Marble Meadows; a wilderness camp will be set in the rolling plateau of wildflowers and patches of forest.
Day 5-9: Spend the next 5 days exploring the alpine area of Marble Meadows including Wheaton hut, Limestone cap, Morrison Spire and, the highlight, the summit of Mount McBride. Each destination demands fitness, group management and teamwork, as well as new skills like ice axe use, snow climbing, off trail navigation and map reading. At camp each night the group will take on more responsibility with meals, group decisions and planning.
Day 10-11: Down at lake level again – it’s time for the paddle back. As a well-oiled group, the canoes will fly across the lake. Enjoy refreshing swims and lakeside campsites as your canoes hug the shore on the journey home. A celebratory dinner and last night with your group rounds out your WYLD experience.
Day 12: On your final day, paddle back to Strathcona Park Lodge, enjoy a shower, clean up, pack up and head home knowing you have accomplished more than you likely thought possible; proud of your new skills, increased confidence and shared memories.
Better Instructors
Because of the environments we operate in we demand more from our instructors (they are not summer camp staff). They work with youths in an outdoor education environment year round and have the certifications and skills to do the job safely.
Unique programs
We’re the only company taking youths into many of these areas, including sea kayaking trips to Nootka Sound. On many of our trips we don’t see other people.
A unique location, better instructors, more experience, unique trips, empty backcountry and cool destinations are all reasons to do a WYLD Expedition.
More experience
We’ve been leading trips in our backyard longer than anyone, since 1959 in fact. And we’ve been taking kids into the wilderness longer than almost anyone else in Canada. Experience breeds more knowledge, safer expeditions and a better trip for participants.
Why do WYLD as well as a school program?
Dozens of schools visit Strathcona Park Lodge every spring and fall so their students can learn in an outdoor classroom. These programs are just touching the surface of what can be learned and experienced in an outdoor education experience.
WYLD Expeditions take off where school programs left off. There’s little repetition as the goals and itinerary of school programs and summer camps are different. Participants spend more time away from Strathcona Park Lodge learning camp crafts and self reliance. They’ll build on skills touched on during a school visit and they’ll meet new people with similar interests.
If a student liked their school experience, they’ll love a WYLD Expedition.
Strathcona’s Mission is: To teach the wonder, spirit and worth of people and the natural world through outdoor pursuits.
Everything at Strathcona Park Lodge is guided by six core principles called the Strathcona Circle: More with Less; Stewardship; Challenge by Choice; Living on the Edge; Generosity of Spirit; Happy Warrior. Along with the lodge’s mission to teach the wonder, spirit and worth of people and the natural world through outdoor pursuits, this is our philosophy.
In addition we strive to be good stewards to the environment. We generate our own clean power, shop locally, work to protect wild places and always look for ways to reduce our environmental impact.
Exciting goals to have, but not easy ones to achieve, we do so with a core set of values called The Strathcona Circle: More with Less; Stewardship; Challenge by Choice; Living on the Edge; Generosity of Spirit; Happy Warrior.
These six principles govern everything that happens at Strathcona Park Lodge, the food we serve, the people we employ, our environmental ethos and our teaching style. We live them every day and teach them as part of all our programs, often by example. Here’s how:
More with Less – Minimizing one’s impact on the planet through one’s choices.
Strathcona is a self contained community of more than 20 buildings, 50 or more staff and hundreds of guests. The entire operation is powered by a micro-hydro system, which means we’re highly sensitive to energy conservation. We also treat our own water and heat some of it with passive solar technology.
Stewardship – Caring for one’s local environment and teaching others to care too.
When a logging company planned to cut old growth trees in a pristine valley Strathcona helped organize a land swap, even though it meant more logging in our viewscape. The Lodge and its employees have been instrumental in keeping Strathcona Provincial Park protected and wild.
Challenge by Choice – Providing the opportunity for individuals to choose to take appropriate risks in a safe environment where success is guaranteed.
While the zip lines at Strathcona appear dangerous, the cables, pulleys and carabiners are strong enough to hold a car. That doesn’t make that first step off the platform any easier for a lot of people. Whether someone leaps, balks or just puts on a harness, trying is considered a success.
Living on the Edge – Being open to new experiences, new ideas and people’s differences.
Hand in hand with Challenge by Choice, Living on the Edge means trying a bite of that new food at dinner. It’s being brave and climbing into a kayak even though you’ve never been in a boat. And most importantly it’s leaving stereotypes and preconceptions behind.
Generosity of Spirit – Thinking of others with kindness and charity, giving others the benefit of the doubt, treating people with respect.
Instructors genuinely want to share their skills and knowledge. They want everyone to succeed and do their best to make it happen. They are never happier than after a challenging day when everyone in their group exceeded their goals. That is why they work here.
Happy Warrior – Going at tasks (including the mundane or daunting) with gusto, being a positive contributor to a team and always pitching in.
The rain is pouring down and camp is still a long way off, yet the entire group is singing at the top of their lungs. That’s a happy warrior. We’re never surprised when we hear about groups of all ages and backgrounds overcoming hardship with a smile, a laugh and a song.
WYLD Expeditions at Strathcona are delivered by professional and highly skilled instructors.
Teaching the figure 8 knot while at 1 of 3 on site climbing bluffs.
They love the outdoors and they love to teach and share their passion for adventure. Our instructors are excellent role models and are chosen, not only for their high level of technical skill, but because they are smart, energetic, caring leaders who have the ability to work with and look after youths. All instructors undergo a criminal record check and hold current certification in Wilderness First Aid & CPR. Other qualifications include: BCRCA Canoe Instructor, WKABC Whitewater Instructor, ACKSG and SKGA Sea Kayak Guides, Swiftwater Rescue Technician & NLS. Instructors receive ongoing training and evaluation and are encouraged to further develop themselves professionally.
Most of our instructors work as outdoor guides and leaders year round. Many are graduates of our own leader training semester the Canadian Outdoor Leadership Training or similar programs. In addition, they have strong “soft skills” in leadership, group dynamics, motivation, skills progression and more.
They’ll keep campers safe, engaged and learning throughout their trip.
WYLD Expeditions qualify for Adventurous Journey in all levels of the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a United Kingdom charity program that encourages personal development for youths aged 14 to 25. All three levels of achievement (bronze, silver and gold) are voluntary and self-driven. The ‘expedition’ component of the award can be earned by taking part in a WYLD expedition.
To find out more about the award and why someone would want to do it go to their website, www.dukeofed.org.
Students participating in the DOE must inform their instructor at the start of the Expedition. It is the camper’s responsibility to complete the section on the qualifying journey and then give the record book to their instructor the evening prior to departure. Record books will not be signed if submitted late. Instructors will only complete the assessors section if the student has sufficiently achieved the requirements and accurately filled in the record book.
All WYLD Expedition summer camps at Strathcona Park Lodge contain an element of risk that is inherent to outdoor activities.
Our instructors and staff understand the risks involved in certain activities and managing those risks and the safety of our participants is our first priority.
We tend not to think of driving as dangerous task because it is part of every day life but in reality someone is far more likely to get hurt in a car than they would rock climbing, sea kayaking, climbing a mountain or anything else a WYLD participant will do.
This is the difference between perceived risk (appears dangerous, but isn’t) and real risk (really is dangerous). At Strathcona we do as much as we can to reduce real risk as part of our safety and risk management planning. Instructors are highly trained, they use high quality equipment and procedures are in place to ensure activities are geared to the participant’s age, maturity and ability.
Perceived risk on the other hand is part of what makes outdoor education so exciting and valuable. Campers often approach an activity, such as rock climbing, with a notion that it is dangerous and hard. By explaining how the equipment works, the training the instructors have and breaking climbing into simple steps, kids are able to overcome their fears and succeed. The sense of accomplishment in the face of a huge obstacle, like a cliff face, is great and carries over to many aspects of their lives.
Outdoor activities will always carry a certain level of risk but it is an important factor in the learning success of an outdoor environment. We believe that the benefit of taking part in one of our programs far outweighs the risks – So do many others.
More than 100,000 school aged children have been to Strathcona with their class. Our greatest compliment is that many schools return year after year. They come back because we take safety seriously just like we do on each WYLD Expedition.
Instructors enjoy an open and honest relationship with supervisors and managers. Issues and concerns are dealt with immediately. We have detailed risk management protocols and procedures that are reviewed and re-evaluated regularly. Every three years the British Columbia Camping Association audits our safety practices. Our Executive Director and managers take part in risk management workshops and conferences to ensure Strathcona Park Lodge remains a leader in outdoor education safety.
Strathcona Park Lodge and its employees can’t manage all the risks on their own. A large responsibility rests with the participants to share in the safety of themselves and others during all activities. That’s why as part of our safety and risk plan we ask every participant to sign a youth consent form. This is not a waiver, nor does it pretend to absolve us of any or all responsibility for the safety of your child. It is an educational tool to inform parents and campers of the types of activities, and risks and responsibilities involved with in WYLD Expeditions. By signing it, participants agree to share in the managing of risk with their instructor, Strathcona Park Lodge and their group.
If you have any questions or concerns about safety and risk management at Strathcona Park Lodge please call 250-286-3122 and ask for one of our Program Directors.
We take safety seriously:
All instructors hold a minimum 40 hour wilderness first aid & CPR certificate, many also hold the 80hr certificate. Each instructor carries a group first aid kit during all activities and a communication device for wilderness environments.
We have an onsite first aid room equipped with oxygen. Oxygen and first aid supplies are also located in the waterfront centre.
The Campbell River hospital (with full emergency department), walk-in clinics and dentists are 40km away.
Ambulance service provided by Campbell River or Gold River.
All buildings are equipped with smoke detectors and we provide our own fire fighting equipment. Our staff is trained in the use of fire fighting equipment.
Instructors are responsible for the safety and supervision of WYLD students from the time of pick up to drop off.
Each instructor and office phone is equipped with an emergency contact phone list.
Student medical records are kept in the first aid room. In the event that a student is sent to the hospital or clinic we send a copy with them and retain the original.
Our instructor field guide contains detailed information about search and rescue procedures. This includes conducting land and water searches for missing persons, clearing and marking helicopter landing zones and emergency contact protocol.
We have a staff/camper communication policy to protect children. Any post-trip communication must be conducted through our office or public Facebook page so as to protect children from inappropriate correspondence and our staff from allegations of misconduct.
We have motorboats and vehicles onsite in the event they are needed. All powerboat operators possess the new Pleasure Craft Operator Card.
Policies, procedures and training are in place for all activities we conduct (rock climbing, high ropes course, zip line, etc.)
We are audited every three years for compliance with BC Camping Association guidelines.
Our dining and kitchen facilities are in compliance with provincial health and safety regulations.
If you have more questions, want help deciding which course is right for you, or would like to check availability, please call us at 250-286-3122 and speak to one of our friendly staff or e-mail us at [email protected].
Dear WYLD Parent and Participant,
Thank you for your interest in WYLD Expeditions. We take pride in offering exceptional wilderness adventures for youth and strive to challenge the body, expand the mind and create a powerful experience that will last a lifetime. Our courses are based out of British Columbia’s oldest park – Strathcona Provincial Park – offering a diversity of beautiful locations and challenging environments to explore. We welcome you and your son or daughter to our exciting world of outdoor exploration.
The WYLD Summer Camp application follows the steps listed below. (If you do not have means to fill out the WYLD Summer Camp Application Form online contact us at 250-286-3122 or e-mail at [email protected])
Step 1: Please fill out the WYLD Summer Camp Application Form below. (The application can be filled out by you, although we encourage you to include your child in this process.)
Step 2: You will receive an e-mail from Strathcona Park Lodge regarding your son/daughter’s acceptance into a WYLD Summer Camp and information on payment. In the same e-mail you get a link to fill out the following forms:
Acknowledgement of Risk and Informed Consent Form
Medical Form
Travel Details Form
All forms, medical, consent and travel details must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the start of your son or daughter’s WYLD course. Once you have submitted these forms you will be automatically redirected to the equipment lists page so your son or daughter can come to a WYLD Summer Camp properly prepared.
Thank you for choosing WYLD, we look forward to seeing you this summer!
STUDENT BEHAVIOUR
The success of a WYLD course is built on the foundation of its participants. They must be willing to participate, trust, and communicate with each other in order to create a positive experience. WYLD is not a camp for youth with motivational or behavioral issues. We reserve the right to dismiss any student who is seen as being a detriment to the group and is a safety risk or medical concern. The use or possession of tobacco, non-prescription drugs or alcohol is strictly prohibited. As well, we will not keep students on course who are determined to leave. Any of these situations will result in the student being removed from the course and transported back home at their own expense. No refund will be given for early dismissals.
REFUND POLICY
A 25% non-refundable deposit is due with your application. Full payment is due one month prior to the start date of the WYLD course and becomes non-refundable at that time. Students leaving a course after its start date will not be granted a refund even as a result of injury or illness.
Apply for WYLD
If you have more questions, want help deciding which course is right for you, or would like to check availability, please call us at 250-286-3122 and speak to one of our friendly staff.
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Student Reflections
"Our leaders got us to play a few quick games that first day, and over the course of the next five days we learned many more, like the "human knot" and others. Each game was fun, but it was more than that. Each game taught us who we are or where we stand or how we deal with tricky situations in terms of leadership. With each game I gained more confidence to speak out, which is something I can hopefully continue improving over the course of my life. That's what the annual grade 8 and 9 trip to strathcona is about. Learning about who you are without technology and becoming a leader." | {
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
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Poor FTTC - Stats included please look
Hi, looking for a bit of advice here.
Had FTTC installed by plusnet on 14th October, estimated speeds were 21 - 14.9Mbps clean or 18 - 8.7 impacted.
I first synced at 7.5 and after a couple of days raised a ticket. Since then I've had 3 engineer visits (1st & 3rd were same guy) and on the last visit he found an earth fault and swapped my pair from the cab to the DP.He supposedly performed a DLM reset but I never noticed any difference after.
However in his report to Plusnet he remarked that as I'm 500mtrs from the DP in his opinion the line is working as well as it can. Now the total length of copper to the cab from my address is 1500mtrs and the DP is 500mtrs from me and so obviously 1000mtrs from the cab.
Plusnet support closed my ticket on the strength of this engineer report and since then I've been stuck between 5 and 6Mbps.
I've just got my hands on a HG612 (was originally given an ECI) and have flashed it and here's what it came up with.
Would someone who understands have a look and see if there's anything obvious amiss and/or anything I can do to make FTTC work better for me.
Thanks
Re: Poor FTTC - Stats included please look
I'll caution this answer by stating that I haven't had the opportunity to study the statistics of a vectored line, so any artifact seen in the data could be caused by the trial going on.
First, as BatBoy mentions, you are limited in the frequencies you can use - which is indeed a sign of a long line and a high attenuation value. Your attenuation value suggests your sync speed is in the right ballpark - somewhere around 10Mbps would be kinda right (with a large margin plus or minus)
Second: That 500m from the DP is probably the main reason for a discrepancy from the estimates. Without knowledge of actual speeds, the estimator (I believe) assumes a more normal length of drop line (which would be 20m).
Third: Your current SNRM values are high, as a sync ought to target 6dB. The standard explanations would be that a noise source has disappeared since your last sync, or that you have been banded by DLM, with limited speeds. In the second case, though, I'd expect to see speeds a little closer to round whole numbers - and 7896 seems not such a number. But it could be something with vectoring.
Fourth: DLM has intervened with your line, as you have a non-zero "INP" value (set to 3.5) and a "delay" value greater than 1 (8ms). The "delay" value is standard for DLM, but the "INP" value of 3.50 is not - I don't think I've ever seen it set to a non-integer before ... suggesting that we are seeing something related to the vectoring trial.
The DLM intervention means that FEC and interleaving are turned on, and we can see some level of FEC corrections happening, and not much evidence of errors that FEC couldn't fix - you have an ES count of 6, and a CRC count of 8; if that continues, you would be well below the threshold to get DLM to reduce intervention - if BT manages to turn DLM back on again.
Fifth: The modem is using a quarter of your bandwidth to carry FEC overheads (10 bytes out of every 42). That is a fairly high amount, presumably caused by the "INP" value of 3.5
If you get rid of the crackle, then this overhead may well be unnecessary.
Sixth: Normally, once DLM has intervened, and the HG612 reports data, it tends to estimate a "max attainable speed" that is too high. Getting DLM to de-intervene would normally only restore speeds half way back to that "max attainable", which would then also lower to a realistic value.
However, when we see that, we also see the modem trying to synchronise at 6DB margin, while yours is higher.
In your case, it is hard to say whether removal of DLM would get your speed back to 11Mbps, or only back to 9Mbps. The impact of vectoring is an unknown here.
Is it really vectoring? I thought the trials were in Essex or Hertfordshire.
Re: Poor FTTC - Stats included please look
Second: That 500m from the DP is probably the main reason for a discrepancy from the estimates. Without knowledge of actual speeds, the estimator (I believe) assumes a more normal length of drop line (which would be 20m).
Re: Poor FTTC - Stats included please look
If DLM is actually currently removed would it do any harm to re-sync the modem now, I've always been wary in the past of upsetting the system?
Could the problem have been the ECI modem previously in use? As soon as I changed it to the Huawei (same as the cab) my max attainable on the Bt wholesale speedtest diagnostics increased from 6.4 to 7.46Mbps.
Engineer was very specific that there was vectoring on this cab and the only other one on the exchange that was also enabled for FTTC at the time. He also remarked that there was a trial going on in Boston Lincs too.
Re: Poor FTTC - Stats included please look
Normally, we don't have to be quite so timid with the modem as in ADSL days; this version of DLM seems to cope rather better in the face of "manual" disconnections. I don't think I've ever triggered DLM in this way.
However, with an abundance of caution, best practice would appear to be this:
1. From the router GUI, disconnect the PPPoE session to the ISP (optional)
2. Power down the modem by turning power off. Do not disconnect from phone line first - the modem should be able to give a "dying gasp" to the DSLAM, to let it know *you* caused the problem - though we have to assume that the DSLAM records this.
3. Leave power off for 30 minutes. This makes sure the DSLAM gets at least one 15 minute-long statistics period where no attempt to sync was made - which gives DLM another opportunity to notice.
4. Plug modem into line, if it was removed.
5. Turn on modem
6.Start PPPoE session in router, if it was stopped in step 1. | {
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UN Imposes Sanctions on 2 Iranian Companies for Arms Smuggling
UNITED NATIONS — The U.N. Security Council has imposed sanctions on two Iranian companies for smuggling arms to Syria and other countries.
The council's committee monitoring an arms embargo and other sanctions against Iran added cargo airline Yas Air and SAD Import Export Company to its blacklist on Thursday.
U.S. U.N. Ambassador Susan Rice welcomed the new designations, saying the companies were responsible for shipping ammunition, assault rifles, machine guns, mortar shells and other arms from Iran to Syria.
"The committee's decision underscores the growing international concern over Iran's use of the transportation and shipping sectors as a means to export arms and conduct other illicit activities in violation of U.N. sanctions," she said.
The U.N. has imposed four rounds of increasingly tougher sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program. | {
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"...total bulls**t and both the American taxpayer and those who bravely fight our wars on the ground should be furious."
Tyler Rogoway has gone so far as to declare it "sabotage." And he's right. The A-10 is, contrary to what the Air Force wants you to believe, a cheap and deadly multi-role aircraft that can do the jobs that nothing else can do.
http://youtu.be/eCnjWmtfvFo
This is par for the course for the Air Force brass, who cannot make a halfway logical procurement decision if it meant saving their own lives. Retiring the A-10, so they say, will save the USAF $4.7 billion over five years - $4.7 billion that could go to bringing the F-35 along, as though that's all it would need.
First flown in 1972, and introduced into service in 1977, the A-10 is unquestionably the greatest close support attack aircraft ever produced. So great is the A-10 at its job that, nearly 40 years after its service introduction, it still flies in front-line service, and has outlived its original manufacturer, Fairchild-Republic.
That, the Air Force says, is the problem. They want to shut down the last 315 Warthogs still flying to clear room in the budget for their beloved and problematic F-35 jobs program Joint Strike Fighter.
Truth is, the USAF is right. The A-10 is approaching 40 years old. There is only so much upgrading the Air Force can do to a four-decade-old airframe before the airframe itself is simply done. It does need to be retired.
But here's the issue: What the Air Force needs to replace the A-10 is...wait for it...more A-10s.
The F-35 can't do what the A-10 does
Fairchild-Republic built 716 A-10s. It was the last production military aircraft built by the storied stable that also produced the P-47 Thunderbolt, F-84 Thunderjet and F-105 Thunderchief - all tough aircraft that were built to get dirty and help the grunts on the ground. The A-10 was the next logical step in that evolution, and embodied everything that Republic stood for from World War II on.
Now that we're in 2015, there have been a number of technical advancements that the A-10 has simply missed out on. What has held up over time is its legendary toughness, maneuverability, and the deadly accuracy and hitting power provided by its GAU-8 Avenger cannon.
But the aircraft the USAF wants to replace the Warthog with - the problematic F-35 Joint Strike Fighter - is, in many ways, the exact opposite of the A-10:
Being a stealth aircraft, it's designed to evade radar detection. Where the A-10 flies, among the weeds and behind hills, the concept of radar evasion is irrelevant.
The A-10 was built around its gun and a titanium "bathtub" in which the pilot sits. The F-35 doesn't have that armor.
The F-35 is designed to be supersonic. The A-10 most certainly was not. In fact, its lack of speed is an asset, in that it is a stable platform to aim its weapons from.
The A-10 is highly maneuverable, with its long, straight wings and dual tailplane. The F-35's high wing loading reduces its maneuverability to a point that air-to-air tests are showing it's a serious problem.
The A-10 has 11 external hardpoints, which can carry up to a maximum of 16,000 pounds of ordnance, although usually it carries less than that. The F-35 can carry 18,000 pounds max, but on only six hardpoints, plus two internal bays, so it can carry heavier loads, but not as much stuff in one go.
The A-10 has two engines arranged on pylons at the rear, such that it can get home on one of them if the other gets blown up. The F-35 has one engine, so if you knock that out, you knock out the whole plane.
If the USAF decides to replace the A-10 with the F-35, it will be a multi-billion-dollar mistake. It's already shied away from it once because the F-35 couldn't "generate enough sorties" to replace the Warthog. So what the hell good is a front-line close support aircraft that can't get into the air enough when things go sideways?
Reopen the lines
The Air Force should not buy the F-35 to replace the A-10. Instead, it should re-open the production lines and buy more A-10s.
This is not unprecedented. The U-2 was initially produced in the late 1950s and early 1960s. When the USAF needed more U-2s, they asked Lockheed to re-open the lines to produce two new variants, the TR-1 (later U-2S) and U-2R. Production ended in the mid-1980s, 25 years after the first U-2s rolled off the line at the Skunk Works.
There is only one snag in doing the same with the A-10: The original manufacturer, Fairchild-Republic, no longer exists. Currently, Northrop Grumman is the owner of all A-10 assets, having purchased them from the dying firm in 1987.
A new A-10 variant - let's call it a Northrop Grumman A-10D Super Warthog - as speculated in this article from War is Boring, would retain the A-10's rugged survivability and performance, while adding these new things the pilots want:
Upgraded engines from the old and tired TF34 turbofans. Currently, the A-10 has a hard time taking off with a full modern weapons and fuel load. A little more speed always helps too.
Should a new A-10D variant come on line, it should have these and more and still remain under $20-25 million a piece. If it did, the Air Force could save the taxpayers a lot of money and re-focus the development of the F-35 to replace just the F-16 instead.
In addition, there could be some new customers.
An A-10 for the Marines
If the Marines had waved a magic wand in the early 1970s and said, "Give us an attack aircraft," they would have gotten the A-10.
They probably wouldn't have gotten the AV-8B Harrier II, which, despite its remarkable ability to take off and land without a runway, is highly vulnerable and occasionally unreliable.
But the Harrier's best advantage is that it can operate very close to the battlefield and from ships, like the Marines' Wasp-class amphibious assault carriers.
Now the Marines want their own variant of the F-35, the F-35B, complete with weight-costly and vulnerable STO/VL technology, to replace the Harrier. For a service hell-bent on reliability and toughness, the F-35B sure looks like it's full of sound and fury signifying nothing.
The F-35B is also slated to replace the F/A-18 in Marine service, and perhaps it can as a lightweight multi-role fighter. But for close air support, again, what the Marines need is their own version of the A-10.
Let's say we re-opened the lines again for a Marines version of the A-10. It should be just as tough as the USAF version, but let's see if we can do something really fun: make it carrier-capable.
The message board folks have already speculated about it on occasion, but let's think about it seriously. A theoretical A-10E Sea Hog close support carrier-capable aircraft would require more than a few modifications:
It might be interesting to see if an A-10 could take off from a carrier using a ski-jump (like the British and Russians) with a full load and without a catapult. The Marines do not have ski-jumps on their carriers for the Harriers, even though the Royal Navy does.
This image is not real. But if it were, it would be very cool:
As it is, if the USAF doesn't want their remaining A-10Cs anymore, the Marines should take them off their hands. Heaven knows they'd be all too happy to do so.
Could there be room for the A-10B?
In 1979, The USAF converted one A-10A with a second seat, as the YA-10B. The plane was designed as a Night/All-Weather attack aircraft. Trials were successful, but Congress did not fund production of the A-10B, so the program was abandoned.
But now would be an interesting time to resurrect the A-10B concept. While night and all-weather chores can be handled by single-seaters thanks to the march of technology since 1979, a two-seat A-10 might be a useful prospect in areas like the Middle East, where forward air control and counter-insurgency aircraft would be needed. In addition, the A-10B would also be a useful tool in the Air Rescue Escort role, a-la the old 'Sandys', the A-1 Skyraiders, in Vietnam.
The A-10 now
All of this is speculation and wishful thinking. For the moment, the A-10 will remain in service until at least 2019 if retirement is to commence, but if Congresswoman Martha McSally of Arizona, a former A-10 driver, gets her way, the Warthog will be around until 2028.
Also coming to the aid of the Warthog are numerous veterans, who say they owe their lives to the A-10 and its pilots.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rGcn2XGr48
Ultimately, the truth is that the USAF doesn't have a replacement for the A-10. The F-35 can't do it. And for that matter, the F-35 cannot do what the Marines want it to do either, at least not in comparison to existing hardware, like the Harrier or the A-10 itself.
As we said above, the only realistic replacement for the A-10 is the A-10, and it will continue to remain so until the chiefs either come up with a cheap alternative, or take the not-unprecedented step of re-opening production of the Warthog.
This is the first part in a series I'm doing on designations of aircraft that should have been, but were not, for whatever reason. Conveniently, the first three happen back-to-back-to-back in the U.S. fighter series. The first one is arguably the most successful in terms of aircraft produced.
If you've never heard of the Republic F-96, that's okay. The fact is that the Republic F-84F Thunderstreak, arguably the most successful variant of the venerable F-84, initially had - and should always have carried - an entirely new designation. Ironically, the initial F-96 prototype had a lot more in common with its straight-winged forebears than it did with the swept-wing machines it presaged.
Almost as soon as the first Republic XP-84 Thunderjet made its initial flight on February 28, 1946, Alexander Kartveli and the team at Republic knew it was outdated.
Data recovered from captured research facilities and scientists in Nazi Germany at the end of World War II indicated that designers there found advantages from swept-back wings, particularly at high speed. With the F-84B already in production by late 1947, Republic were now having to scramble to save the straight-winged Thunderjet from a short service life.
Republic YF-96A Thunderstreak
Republic developed several variants of the F-84 with various aerodynamic and propulsion upgrades in desperate attempts to keep the Thunderjet project alive for the USAF. However, by 1949, it was clear that a swept-wing aircraft would have to be developed if republic were to remain competitive with the likes of North American with their F-86, McDonnell's F-88, and Lockheed's F-90 - all of which employed swept wings.
Alexander Kartveli approached the problem from the simplest angle possible: Take a standard F-84E fuselage, and attach 38.5-degree swept wings and tailplane. This approach was an efficient one - It enabled quicker production due to not having to re-tool the factory (the new plane would have 55% commonality with the F-84E), and permitted the possibility of modifying existing straight-wing machines to the new standard.
As is custom, the Air Force provided Republic with a new designation for the aircraft - F-96. Republic dubbed it 'Thunderstreak.' The first was ready for flight in June of 1950.
The YF-96A, s/n 49-2430, made its maiden flight on June 3rd, 1950. Performance turned out not to be up to the levels Republic was hoping for. The YF-96A topped out at 693 mph, while the straight-winged F-84E had a top speed of 613 mph. In addition, like its predecessor, the YF-96A's performance died as it climbed, with a ceiling under 40,000 feet. Compared to the F-86 Sabre, which was capable of breaking the sound barrier in a dive, the F-96 looked headed for cancellation.
Then, on June 25th, 1950, everything changed. On that day, North Korea invaded South Korea, and the Korean War was on. With it came drastically expanded military funding, which had floundered in the draw-down after World War II. And with it, the YF-96 had new life, if its technical shortcomings could be solved.
The main drawback was the engine. The YF-96A was powered by the same Allison J35 engine as the F-84E. The swept surfaces did allow for some additional speed, but to reach the heights hoped for, the type needed a more powerful engine.
The Air Force asked Wright Aeronautical to build the British Armstrong-Siddely Sapphire turbojet engine under license in the U.S., under the designation J65. this engine, which already powered the Gloster Javelin and Hawker Hunter, could crank out more than 7,000 pounds of thrust, compared to the J35's 5,500 pounds. This new engine would be installed in the new Thunderstreak.
But there was a problem. The J65 was slightly larger than the J35, and required a greater volume of air than the F-96's circular nose intake could provide. The lack of air to the engine resulted in drastically inferior power and performance, despite the type's first flight with it in February 1951. So Republic had to go back to the drawing board. Kartveli's solution was to add a seven-inch length-wise plug into the fuselage, giving it a fatter, ovular cross-section.
As a result, most of the tools that Republic hoped to re-use to build F-96s would have to be tossed out, resulting in massive production delays. Consequently, the commonality factor with the straight-winged F-84s was dramatically reduced from 55% to just 15%. Two more prototypes were ordered, each with its own revised design to accommodate the new power plant.
Re-designation to YF-84F
By now, Congress was getting impatient with the F-96 program. It had staved off cancellation with the outbreak of the Korean War, but enthusiasm still waned. So Kartveli decided to play salesman.
He submitted to the Air Force that the XF-96A be re-designated YF-84F, hoping that selling Congress that this was a new sub-type of an existing aircraft would be more palatable than buying a completely new aircraft, despite the fact that the new type was only 15% similar to its predecessors. Congress fell for it, and the Thunderstreak was ordered into production as the F-84F.
In the meantime, Republic also pitched and got an order for an improved straight-win F-84 variant, the F-84G, to be produced quickly while the F-84F was ironed out. More than 3,000 F-84Gs would roll off the line at Republic - the most of any F-84 model.
The first YF-84F, s/n 51-1344, with its ovular cross-section, was flying by the end of 1951.
The second YF-84F, s/n 51-1345, represented a radical redesign. Instead of the nose intake, this machine was completed with wing root-extension intakes and a needle nose. However, the new intakes did not allow enough air to get to the engine as was needed, and power losses were dramatic compared to the nose-intake model. So the F-84F would go into production with a nose intake.
However, at this time, the Air Force was looking for a swept-wing upgrade from its straight-winged Lockheed RF-80 Shooting Star reconnaissance aircraft. Although the F-84F had lackluster performance for a fighter at high altitude, its low-level performance was rock solid in ground attack roles, and by inference, the type would make an excellent choice for low-level reconnaissance.
YRF-84F Thunderflash
The solid-nosed variant also permitted the installation of cameras. So a new prototype was ordered, s/n 51-1828, with an enlarged, aardvark-esque nose section to accommodate camera packages. The first pre-production YRF-84F flew for the first time in February 1952.
YF-84J Thunderstreak
Republic attempted one last push with the F-84F design in its YF-84J. The F's fuselage was enlarged once again, along with the nose intake, to accommodate the General Electric J73 engine, which produced a maximum of 9,500 pounds of thrust. This development finally achieved the performance that Kartveli had envisioned for his swept-wing fighter, as one YF-84J broke the sound barrier in level flight in April of 1954. But the cost of converting the existing F-84Fs to F-84J standard, coupled with the coming emergence of the Century Series fighters like the North American F-100 Super Sabre, spelled the end of the F-84J project.
FICON Prototype
There was one last task for the original YF-96A prototype to undertake. In preparation for the FICON project, 49-2430 was modified with aerial coupling gear and a drooped horizontal stabilizer in order to be mated with a B-36 mother plane to test the concept. The tests with the B-36 proved that the system could indeed work for roles including aerial reconnaissance and even nuclear strike. 25 RF-84Fs were ordered to be converted to RF-84K standards, with coupling gear and anhedraled tailplanes, to be paired with 10 modified GRB-36D mother ships. After service with SAC's 99th Strategic Reconaissance Wing (B-36s) and 91st Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron, the project was suddenly abandoned in April of 1956. While the difficulties in operating parasite aircraft operationally were unquestionably a factor, it should also be noted that the U-2 spy plane entered service with the CIA and SAC in January of that same year.
The original YF-96A (described as the YRF-84F FICON) sits on display in the Research and Development Galler at the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio. It is the only one of the swept-wing F-84 prototypes to still exist. All the others have been scrapped.
Ultimately, given how much of a departure it was from the original F-84, the F-84F probably should have kept its original F-96 designation. Indeed, the original prototype's sleek form represents the highest refinement of aesthetics for a plane that had the unflattering nickname of 'Groundhog.'
Should-have-been equivalent designations:
F-84F - F-96A (21 different sub-types)
RF-84F - RF-96B
YF-84J - YF-96C
RF-84K - RF-96D
XF-84H - XF-96E
But Alexander Kartveli's decision to fold the plane's number in with the original type likely enabled it to become the great plane that it was, rather than being relegated to history's boneyard. It was a bold and cunning decision, but one that surely helped keep him, and Republic itself, in good stead with Air Force leaders heading into the mid-1950s, and the development of the F-105, which would prove troublesome. In this respect, Kartveli's genius as a businessman, in addition to a designer, cannot be overlooked. | {
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Frequently Asked Questions: African American Psychology?
"Is African American Psychology necessary?"
Absolutely!African American Psychology aids in the understanding and interpretation of African American culture and lifestyle. While it is possible to draw conclusions about this cultural group with the use of “traditional” psychology (which often utilizes a Eurocentric perspectives), the most accurate conclusions about African American culture are made with the use of African American Psychology (often characterized by Africentric Theory).
Representation is important and necessary. African American Psychology reflects the voices and contributions of many psychologists who historically have been dismissed and underrepresented. Through African American Psychology, there is recognition and reassuring identification for several Black students.
"How is African American Psychology different from regular psychology?"
African American Psychology involves the psychological study of African American life and culture. As opposed to ”regular” or "traditional" psychology, which largely utilizes Eurocentric views and perspectives to explain human behavior, African American Psychology frequently applies African-centered or Africentric theories in order to gain the most accurate understanding of African American experiences. While traditional psychology is often used to study general human behavior, it may not always be appropriate when considering unique differences that exist amongst various cultural groups. Therefore, when attempting to gather information regarding lifestyle and behaviors that are characteristic of African American culture, African American Psychology would be most helpful.
"Is African American Psychology only for Black students?"
African American Psychology is for anyone who has an interest and desire to learn more about African American life and culture. It has proven to be appealing to Black students who are interested in learning an alternative psychological perspective that better fits their worldview. However, the subject matter also appeals to other students who are open and willing to have their own worldview be challenged. I have found that students of various cultural backgrounds have found this material to be both stimulating and rewarding.
"Can a non-African American psychologist or mental health professional utilize African American Psychology?"
African American Psychology and African-centered or Africentric theories can be utilized by any psychologist or mental health professional. Ideally, this particular psychological approach is used with the purpose of promoting and advancing African American culture and lifestyle. Therefore, with adequate training and consultation, any mental health professional can apply a number of Africentric theories and models to a particular client or community. Furthermore, learning to understand and apply concepts within African American Psychology helps to expand one’s own worldview, which essential for work involving multiculturalism and diversity.
"What topics are commonly discussed in African American Psychology?"
There are a number of different topics that are discussed in African American Psychology. Some of the core topics include defining African American people, defining African American Psychology, differentiating between Eurocentric and Africentric worldviews, racial identity development models, racial socialization, types and levels of racism, variations in language and learning styles, unique family and relationship trends, the historical significance of religion and spirituality, and the psychological implications of African American life and culture.
One reason that African American Psychology is so stimulating is due how easy it is to apply theories, models, and content to current events. For example, considering the psychological impacts of the increased visibility of excessive force used by law enforcement against Black people, or the significance for Black children to grow up with a Black president.
"What is the difference between African American Psychology and Black Psychology?"
“African American” and “Black” are often used interchangeably. Furthermore, different people have different opinions regarding their own meaning of these terms. From my own perspective, “Black” is an umbrella term that I use to describe members of the African Diaspora. This is not limited to individuals who reside in America. On the other hand, “African American” is one of many populations that have resulted from the African Diaspora. It defines and identifies the specific and unique culture and lifestyle of Black individuals who reside in American or identify with American culture.
From that understanding, Black Psychology is broader than African American Psychology. Black Psychology often includes African cultures, and Africentric perspectives regarding populations outside of America. African American Psychology is best suited for the interpretation and understanding of Black individuals within America.
"How can I have African American Psychology implemented into my college and/or university?"
If you are a college or university professor and/or administrator who is interested in African American Psychology, contact me! I can assist you in the setup and development of your course. I am also available to facilitate this course remotely, via on-line learning formats.
If you are a student who is interested in African American Psychology, I encourage you to discuss this with your psychology department. You may use the information I provided to assist you in advocating for the importance and significance of the course being implemented into your college or university. If you need some help in advocating for this course, contact me! | {
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How to Put Big Data to Work for Your Business
Big data is one of the latest buzzwords in the world of business. If you want to tap into this trend but aren’t sure how you can use data to improve your business, the following tips will help.
Keep It Simple When You Are Starting Out
Most businesses start looking into big data when they get a sense that they could be doing more with the data that they have gathered.
Today, there are more software programs than ever available that are designed to perform tasks such as mining data and conducting predictive analysis. When you first start looking at all of the data that your business has gathered, it can be a little bit overwhelming. Trying to figure out which metrics are the most valuable for your company can be confusing. Likewise, it can be difficult to determine if the quality of the data is adequate to support your goals and objectives. Trying to sort through everything to successfully use the data to your advantage can be both time-consuming and costly.
That is why most experts recommend starting small when it comes to looking at big data. Consider identifying a single analytic that you can use to begin boosting your business. Once you have that mastered, you can then look for other ways to leverage the data. Capita ITPS explains big data well in this post.
Know What Your Company Needs
Leveraging big data requires both speed and accuracy. Is your business up to the task? If you find that it takes longer than a day to analyze the data, you aren’t doing as well as you should be. Slow results can interfere with your company’s ability to act quickly when making key decisions.
This can be problematic if your competitors are already using big data to their advantage. From a business standpoint, it is important to get a handle on big data as quickly as possible if you want to stay competitive. Companies that utilize this type of data effectively are in a much better position to make informed decisions in the moment.
Don’t Pay For Data You Don’t Need
When starting out with big data, many companies go overboard, adding every report that they can think of to their analytics. From a development standpoint, these costs can quickly add up. A much better option is to limit the analysis to only the most relevant types of data, creating highly-targeted reports that provide actionable information. This can save both time and money.
Make the User Interface Effective and Easy To Understand
If you want managers to use the information on a regular basis, you need to make sure that it is easy for them to access. The best way to do this is by creating a user interface that is intuitive and attractively designed. A dashboard that makes it easy to look up reports or to visualize data will help ensure that the data is being put to good use.
Take the Advice of Experts in Big Data
Large enterprises can benefit from the expertise of companies that specialize in big data. They are far more likely to get good results by working with these companies rather than trying to do everything themselves.
Ray Kingman, the CEO of Semcasting, points out that today’s businesses are turning more and more to analytics to increase their ROI. This is particularly true for businesses such as high-volume retailers, tech companies, and businesses in the financial sector. These businesses are far more likely to succeed when they use tools that are designed to analyze data in a way that is both intuitive and efficient.
Kingman believes that tools that are used for analyzing big data are destined to become part of the overall workflow for many of these businesses, whether they are used for marketing, product development or sales.
Focus on the End Solution
Adobe’s Hadoop ecosystem has undergone a number of advancements over the years. However, it is still in its infancy in terms of actually being used in the business world rather than just in the lab. As more and more companies turn to big data, the framework is likely to continue its evolution.
It is unlikely that companies will be able to get a single program off the shelf that helps them both now and in the future with all of their Hadoop requirements. However, it is important to look toward the future when coming up with a plan for a project, keeping an eye on both scalability and extensibility.
The open-source nature of the Hadoop framework is driving innovation in terms of both scalability and durability. One of the primary benefits of this ecosystem is that transformations can be successfully ported across a variety of different Hadoop distributions. | {
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Citations
Emma Bollenbacher
F, b. November 1858
Emma Bollenbacher was born in November 1858 at New York, Greater New York City, NY.1,2 She was the daughter of Jacob Bollenbacher and Philippina Munzinger.1 Emma Bollenbacher married Charles Lorenzen in November 1879 at New York City, Greater New York City, NY.3 Emma Bollenbacher married William Herbison in March 1885 at Greater New York City, NY, 10 children born, 7 living, as per 1900 census. Three were born to the first marriage, one died. Apparently two died from the second marriage before 1900.
Citations
George Bollenbacher was born in September 1878 at New York, Greater New York City, NY.1 He was the son of Jacob Bollenbacher and Philippina Munzinger.1 George Bollenbacher died in April 1881 at Greater New York City, NY, at age 2.
Citations
Jacob Bollenbacher
M, b. 31 October 1829
Jacob Bollenbacher was born on 31 October 1829 at Palatinate (now Rhein-Pfalz), Germany, This is NOT the same individual as Jacob Bollenbacher, born 20 APR 1829 in Aschbach (Kusel.)1 He was the son of (?) Bollenbacher and [ unknown ] (?) Jacob Bollenbacher immigrated in 1854 to Ellis Island, New York, New York, NY. He married Philippina Munzinger, daughter of Johann Theobald Munzinger and Elisabetha Katherina Krick, circa 1857 at New York, NY, Estimated based on birth date of eldest child Emma about 1858. Occupation: Cigar Manufacturer in 1880 at Manhattan, New York, NY.1
Jacob Bollenbacher was born in December 1862 at New York, Greater New York City, NY.1,2 He was the son of Jacob Bollenbacher and Philippina Munzinger.1 Jacob Bollenbacher married Margaret Jane Simms in November 1885 at Greater New York City, NY. Jacob Bollenbacher married Minnie J. Schroeder circa 1895.2 Jacob Bollenbacher died in March 1919 at Bronx, Greater New York City, NY, at age 56 Minnie is listed as "widowed" in the 1920 census.3
Lena Bollenbacher
F, b. November 1873, d. June 1879
Lena Bollenbacher was born in November 1873 at New York, Greater New York City, NY. She was the daughter of Jacob Bollenbacher and Philippina Munzinger. Lena Bollenbacher died in June 1879 at New York, Greater New York City, NY, at age 5 Not in family in 1880 census.
Louis Bollenbacher
M, b. 1870, d. October 1871
Louis Bollenbacher was born in 1870 at New York, Greater New York City, NY. He was the son of Jacob Bollenbacher and Philippina Munzinger. Louis Bollenbacher died in October 1871 at New York, Greater New York City, NY.
Louisa Bollenbacher
F, b. July 1865, d. July 1886
Louisa Bollenbacher was born in July 1865 at New York, Greater New York City, NY. She was the daughter of Jacob Bollenbacher and Philippina Munzinger. Louisa Bollenbacher died in July 1886 at New York, Greater New York City, NY.
Citations
Anna Catherina Bollinger
F, b. 2 May 1839, d. 18 July 1913
Anna Catherina Bollinger was also known as Kathrine. She was born on 2 May 1839 at Scioto Co., OH, Parents born Germany, per 1880 and 1900 census info.1 She married William Lawrence Wendell, son of William D. Wendell and Effie Margaret DeLong, on 14 February 1872 at Logan Co., IL, 1900 census shows she had 8 children, 6 still living. Anna Catherina Bollinger died on 18 July 1913 at New Holland, Logan Co., IL, at age 74. She was buried in July 1913 at Pleasant Valley Cemetery, Middletown, Logan Co., IL.
Bertie Ellen Bollinger
F, b. 19 May 1864, d. 24 November 1880
Bertie Ellen Bollinger was born on 19 May 1864 at Pennsylvania. She was the daughter of Benjamin F. Bollinger and Henrietta Elizabeth LeFevre. Bertie Ellen Bollinger died on 24 November 1880 at age 16. She was buried in November 1880 at Christ Reformed Church Cemetery, Littlestown, Adams Co., PA. | {
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After dressing up properly and getting in a proper place, recite first
four lessons, and after that sit motionless and meditate on either Lesson
3 and Lesson 1, or Lesson 1 alone for five times. After this, recite
Lesson 5. Then, offer three bow downs to monks or nuns present, or to Lord
Shri Simandhar Swami in the direction of North-East corner. Then, recite
Lesson 6 and Lesson 7, and after that, recite Lesson 1 for three times.
This completes how you accept the vow of Samayik for 48 minutes. | {
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Step inside Jake's Delicatessen, 1634 W. North Ave., and you might as
well be entering a time machine, a real-life "Streets of Old
Milwaukee." The clientele is different than it was 50 years ago --
this urban North side landmark was once the hub for a thriving Jewish
community -- but the booths are the same, the fixtures are the
same, and most important, the corned beef is exactly the same.
And that's just how the owners like it.
You're probably familiar with two out of the three of Jake's
owners. The newest partner is Brian Miller, whose family owns
Miller Bakery. The other is the Commissioner of Major League
Baseball.
Yes, Alan H. "Bud" Selig holds a stake in the business. In 1967,
Selig, Julius Atkins, Irv Kassof and the late Ben Barkin formed an
ownership group to preserve their favorite deli when it was sold by
Jake Levine. They didn't change a thing -- they simply bought the
restaurant to ensure that it stayed exactly as it was.
For Miller, a Fox Point native who thought he'd practice law in Chicago
-- then wound up returning home to work in the family business -- the
appeal of Jake's was part history, and part his love for "street
food." So when Atkins wanted to sell his shares in 2006, Miller
found himself ready to jump into the deli business.
"Jake's is a restaurant with a great history, old-school charm and
character, and serves terrific fresh street food," says Miller.
"To me, the definition of street food is great food -- better than
chain fast food -- that is accessible to everyone of all races and
socioeconomic groups."
In
fact, it's the classification of his restaurant, says Miller, that
could use a little updating. "Being that we have a very limited menu, I
wouldn't call us a deli anymore."
In the strictest sense of the word, Miller is right. Compared to
Milwaukee's other predominant deli, Benji's, lunch at Jake's might
consist of a corned beef or a pastrami sandwich and a cup of matzo ball
soup. Wash it down with a Dr. Brown's Cream Soda, and you're good
to go. Your choices are not exactly expansive.
And trendy health food it is not.
But is steeped with tradition, which is why Miller loves it, and
speculates that's the reason his partners do, too. Despite his busy
schedule, Selig still dines at Jake's regularly. It's typical to
see him having lunch with Sen. Herb Kohl.
That kind of passion, Miller says, makes Selig one of the most
down-to-earth business partners a young entrepreneur could hope for.
"He's been nothing but happy to answer questions and take my phone
calls," says Miller. "He really cares about the business."
Now, Miller and Selig, along with Michael Kassof (the son of Irv, who
runs the place on a daily basis), work to keep the tradition alive.
And in some ways, it even keeps growing. Though the makeup of the
neighborhood is completely different than it was when the deli opened
in the '50s -- Jake's has garnered one of the most diverse clienteles
in Milwaukee.
"I joke with people sometimes when I say that Jake's is the Elsa's of
the near West Side," says Miller. "Elsa's draws a lot of people
from different backgrounds, and I think Jake's does the
same thing.
"You'll be sitting next to a federal judge, sitting next to an assembly
worker next to a teacher next to a student -- all different races --
all sitting and eating in harmony. It sounds a little teary-eyed,
but it's true."
Would business be better for a Jewish deli if it was located, say, in Fox Point?
"I don't know," says Miller. "We're open 25 hours a week right
now, and we're busy from the moment we open till the moment we close."
More importantly, Miller says he remains committed to this neighborhood.
"This community was mostly Jewish and now it's African-American -- they have both supported us."
Miller, who is Jewish, says he's proud that this business is a part of
his heritage -- but he's actually more proud about what Jake's means to
Milwaukee as a whole.
"To me, the real story is that for the last 50 years, Jake's has
overcome the challenges of the neighborhood, the explosion of national
chains serving sandwiches and peoples' 'eat on the run attitude' to
remain very successful. We are a Milwaukee landmark, an
institution that needs to be recognized by the next generation of
Milwaukeeans, to ensure that another 50 years of great corned beef and
pastrami sandwiches will be served."
Though that doesn't mean Jake's isn't looking for new opportunities in the future -- including opening new locations.
"A natural progression for us is to be Downtown and to have more
accessibility to later-hour dining to capture some of the nightlife
business that we're not able to do at this location," says Miller.
"When the time is right, we're definitely going to try to gently expand
the menu, and we may offer some sausages or hand-cut French fries or
desserts -- to try to bring in some of the tourist business that maybe
has never heard of Jake's."
At the 16th and North location, though, rest assured: nothing is changing.
"We intend to be here indefinitely. We don't want to abandon what's made Jake's special."
More Information…
Talkbacks
Good News!
There is a strictly kosher restaurant in Milwaukee, in Fox Point/Bayside, with terrific corned beef, pastrami AND a 1/2 lb burger you can get with or without BBQ pastrami. It's too die for! The restaurant is Cafe Osher right off 43 east on Brown Deer rd. 333 W. Brown Deer Road, www.cafeosher.com
The service is always a problem at Jakes. You can't pre-order and forced to wait in such a long line. The guys behind the counter no nothing of short order. In NYC deli's you never wait but at Jakes it is forever. The only way to eat quickly is to sit down which isn't fair.
mmmmmm .... this corned beef is like liquid meat. falls apart in your mouth. so good. be not afraid, suburban folk, jake's is the real deal and a place that you gotta try. i would, though, love a second more downtown location. keep it up, jake's! milwaukee loves you.
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A study suggests the answer is yes. It found married women drink more than single or divorced women — and married men drink less than their single, divorced or widowed counterparts.
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The Richest Zip Codes In The United States [PHOTOS]
Harry Bradford
Associate Editor, HuffPost Business and HuffPost Small Business
It may be only five numbers long, but a zip code can say a lot about a person. Like if they have rich neighbors, for example.
Of 29,000 zip codes examined by the Internal Revenue Service, only three had an average yearly income of one million dollars or more, based on recently released data from 2008 (h/t Tax.com). But the average income per year for all of the top ten richest zip codes exceeds $700,000, according to IRS data, a staggering sum compared to the average American taxpayer's income of just $49,000 in 2009.
Three of the wealthiest five zip codes are located in New York City, but neighborhoods in California, Florida and Illinois also made the top ten in highest average income.
That New York City boasts so many cash-money zip codes may not be surprising. Not only does the city count among its residents 7,270 people worth $30 million or more, it's also one of the most expensive places to live in the nation. Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn all count in the top five towns with the highest cost of living, a report from the Council for Community and Economic Research found.
Thanks to the high cost of living, a Manhattanite making $60,000 a year lives a lifestyle equivalent to the average American making just $26,092, according to a 2009 Center for an Urban Future report cited by the New York Daily News. | {
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Brutal death of a TV legend
Brutal death of a TV legend
IT'S twenty years since celebrated comedy actor Phil Hartman, famed for roles in shows like The Simpsons, NewsRadio and Saturday Night Live, was killed in a brutal murder-suicide that sent shockwaves through Hollywood.
Twenty years on, fans are marking the actor's death, sharing stories about his prodigious comedic talents and gift for impressions - and still trying to make sense of his shocking death.
COMEDY'S MR NICE GUY
Hartman first found fame in 1986 as a Saturday Night Live cast member, and across his eight seasons on the show, he scored the nickname "The Glue" for his ability to keep the always-unpredictable live show from going off the rails, helping other cast members to stay on track.
Spot-on impressions of famous figures including Bill Clinton earned him widespread praise - and an Emmy.
Post-SNL, Hartman's work as a voice actor on The Simpsons introduced him to a new generation of fans: He voiced the always grafting D-list Hollywood actor Troy McClure ("You might remember me from such films as …") and incompetent lawyer Lionel Hutz, among other characters.
Voicing the sleazy, sad McLure was perhaps Hartman's favourite role. "I do it for the pure love of it," he once said.
At the time of his death, Hartman had just finished filming on the fourth season of underrated sitcom NewsRadio, playing the bombastic and egocentric radio broadcaster Bill McNeal. Gentle and softly spoken in real life, Hartman had carved a niche for himself playing jerky, unpleasant, comedic villains - and making audiences empathise with them.
ROCKY MARRIAGE
Hartman's career was going from strength to strength, but the affable funnyman's personal life was faltering. He had married his third wife, former model and aspiring actress Brynn Omdahl, in 1987. The pair had two young children, but theirs was a rocky marriage - Brynn was reportedly so intimidated by her husband's success as an actor that Hartman considered retiring from the business in order to keep the marriage going.
Hartman attempted to help his wife land acting roles, but as her career failed to take off, Brynn turned to drugs and alcohol, entering rehab several times.
AN UNTHINKABLE END
Despite the couple's difficult marriage, nobody could have predicted the events of the early hours of May 28, 1998.
Having dined at a restaurant with a female friend - who said she was "in a good frame of mind" - on the evening of May 27, Brynn returned home and got into a heated argument with Phil, who threatened to leave her if she used drugs again.
Hartman went to bed, and at some time before 3am, with the couple's two young children asleep in the house, Brynn entered the bedroom she shared with her husband.
Using a .38 caliber handgun, she fatally shot Phil twice - once in the head and once in his side.
After this, Brynn drove to the house of a friend, confessing to the murder, but he did not believe her and accompanied her back to the Hartman home.
When he saw Phil's body, the friend called 911.
"Officers responding arrived to find the couple's nine-year-old, Sean, fleeing out the front door. They took the boy to safety, then returned to get his six-year-old sister, Birgen. A single shot was heard," the Sun Sentinel reported at the time.
Brynn had locked herself in the bedroom - and took her own life as officers closed in.
SHOCKWAVES THROUGH HOLLYWOOD
Hartman as Bill in Newsradio.
While many friends knew the Hartmans had a tumultuous relationship, none could have predicted it would meet such a violent, tragic end.
Tributes poured in, the couple's children were taken in by Brynn's sister and husband, and the two TV shows Phil starred in scrambled to account for his murder.
NewsRadio returned for its fifth and final season in September 1998. The first episode of the season, 'Bill Moves On', centred on the rest of the characters reacting to news of Hartman's character's off-screen death from a heart attack. The cast could barely get through reading the script, breaking down in tears several times while filming the episode. NewsRadio limped to a finish and the show was cancelled in May 1999.
Hartman's Simpsons family reeled. The show's creator Matt Groening admitted that he "took [Hartman] for granted because he nailed the joke every time," and that he could always produce "the maximum amount of humour."
With Hartman gone, The Simpsons quietly retired two of its funniest characters - so distinctive were Hartman's characterisations, the decision was made that Troy McClure and Lionel Hutz could not be revoiced.
Hartman's death came as he was reaching the top of his long climb up the Hollywood ladder.
Twenty years after his death, Hartman's legacy lives on. His voice can be heard in just 52 episodes of The Simpsons - but Troy McClure and Lionel Hutz remain endlessly quotable fan favourites, two decades after they last uttered a word. And for many fans, he was the bright spark that elevated NewsRadio from forgotten '90s sitcom to cult classic.
Reflecting on his life and death today, fans paid tribute to the comedy icon:
Phil Hartman did great work on both The Simpsons and SNL, but his best role will always be Bill McNeal on NewsRadio. A fantastic character on a truly underrated show. Still miss ya, Phil.
20 years since Phil Hartman died so tragically. Sad to say sometimes I forget what a huge influence he was on me. I met him very briefly when I was in a sketch on SNL when I was 14 and I wrote about meeting him in my college essay and how thrilling that was. Here's to you, Phil. pic.twitter.com/2sBeLe88a3
Today marks the 20th anniversary of the death of Phil Hartman. The most versatile performer to ever grace the Saturday Night Live stage. He’s still the greatest that has ever been. pic.twitter.com/OAGqtMl6nD
We lost Phil Hartman 20 years ago today. When he was on SNL, he would greet the fans in the NBC lobby after a grueling 12-hour Friday rehearsal. We'd say "Do Sinatra, do Clinton." etc. You could see he was tired, but he always obliged. That's how sweet he was. We miss you Phil! pic.twitter.com/p3w2tQr1Kc | {
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It's All In The Perspective
The major difference between the way an MJ fan and an MJ hater thinks: They both see a scan of this same message above, a note that Michael left for someone after taking an ink pen. The fan says, “Wow, this shows what an honest person he was!” The hater says, “He misspelled pen.” You see, it’s all in the perspective. A person CHOOSES what they want to focus on-the positive or the negative. They make the conscious choice as to which has more value or merit. And by choosing which details they wish to focus on, they make the conscious choice in whether to build a person up, or tear them down. The fan sees this small note as a token of Michael’s character (and heck, I know where I work, we surreptiously swipe pens all the time, and trust me, NOBODY is going to bother leaving a note of apology!). The hater chooses only to snicker at his penmanship and spelling error, as if of any of those things should matter more than character! I know, having seen many such discussions of this note on various forums. But doesn’t that also say everything about the way Michael has been judged by the world? The good has always been ignored in favor of the bad or the negative-and sometimes, as in this case, even the good takes a backseat because those with cynical minds only want to point out what is flawed, not what is good.
As a teacher, I see these kinds of homophone spelling errors quite often. They really mean nothing. Certainly they should not be taken as a sign of a person’s intelligence, nor can they even be used as an adequate measure by which to gauge a person’s level of literacy-unless one sees enough of an individual’s writing to denote an obvious pattern. But what I have seen with Michael’s handwriting is the same kind of inconsistency that I see with many of my students who commit these same kind of errors (i.e, interchangeably confusing soundalike words such as their/there, or weather/whether). Most often, they are the result of careless proofreading, in which the person is simply writing too hurriedly or casually to really pay attention. Would it shock you if I told you that some of my students who commit these errors are actually some of the brightest students in the class? In fact, spelling errors are actually more apt to be indicative of a creative mind, one that is too busily engaged with the act of creating to worry about the finer details of spelling. Throughout history, some of our brightest writers, musicisans, and artists have also been some of our most notoriously poor spellers-it’s an attention to detail that most creative minds simply are not focusing on.
But really, judging anyone by the quality of a note like this is akin to judging someone on the literary quality of a post-it note that is stuck on the fridge! Why would anyone do that? Only because it’s Michael Jackson!
I’ve also read a lot of snarky comments about Michael’s penmanship. Almost every single time a handwritten note from him is made public, I inevitably see the snarky comments all over the internet about his “messy” writing, or how it “looks like the writing of a ten year old” blah blah blah. Then, out of the woodwork will come all of the amateur psychoanalysts with their usual psychobabble. “It is clear that this is the handwriting of a mentally regressed individual.” For some reason, trying to tear down Michael’s intelligence and belittling his artistic genius seems to be a favorite past time of haters and even the general media, who prefer to portray him as someone “weird, “bizarre” and/or a “regressed” childlike man with “issues” rather than the intelligent and gifted person that he was.
Please. If you compare Michael’s handwriting to most of the musical geniuses of our time, you see a lot of the same qualities.
For example, Jim Morrison, who I will use here as an example because his reported IQ of 149 has been quite well documented, had handwriting quite similar to Michael’s. Note this sample here:
Morrison, like Michael, had the same tendency to combine cursive with more childlike, printed letters (a trait of Michael’s writing that often comes under severe scrutiny). In the last paragraph, especially, you can see that he shares many of the same penmanship traits as Michael, most notably in the tendency to combine blocky, childlike print with cursive and the tendency to isolate letters completely (notice, for example, how the “B” in “But” is not connected to the “u”). Now compare this to another note by Michael, which is actually far more typical of his writing than the hastily scrawled note above:
Even though Morrison was certainly a controversial figure and some may debate whether his lifestyle made him someone to admire, I don’t know anyone stupid enough to try to say the guy wasn’t intelligent. College educated, articulate, and well read (like Michael, he owned thousands of books at a time-in fact, books were said to be among the very few possessions Morrison ever actually owned!) no one would ever refer to him as a regressed child! Yet his handwriting certainly bears many interesting similarities to Michael’s. Hmm. Wouldn’t it be interesting to switch those samples up and give them to one of those psychoanalysts without telling them whose was whose! It would be interesting to see if Michael’s writing still got the same “diagnosis.”
Or let’s look at this handwritten lyric from John Lennon, another indisputable genius:
Again, you’ll notice he shares a lot of the same handwriting traits that Michael does. Same blocky, childlike print, and the same tendency to arbitrarily combine print with cursive.
And here was something amusing I found about the handwriting of Beethoven:
Horowitz rummaged among some books on a table and held up a black, oblong notebook. “But best of all,” he announced, “I have a facsimile of Beethoven’s own manuscript of the ‘Appassionata'” He turned to the last page and pointed to the tenth bar before the end. “Look at this,” he said. “Beethoven has A-flat in the bass, not the F that you find printed in every edition. And it is A flat, no mistake about it! For once Beethoven’s handwriting is clear.” The note was indeed unmistakably A-flat. Yet every editor, even Tovey, had seen fit to change it to F. “Now hear how it sounds,” and Horowitz went to the piano and played the last ten bars. I had to admit that the A-flat was the right, the inevitable note. The F now seemed to me obvious, amateurish, quite un-Beethovenish in fact. Why had I never suspected the validity of the printed note? But Horowitz had, and had gone to the source: the composer himself.
But, really, I could easily spend all day comparing Michael’s handwriting to that of other musical geniuses. However, that wasn’t really the intended point of this post. Going back to my first paragraph, I used this as an example to show how fans and haters can see the same thing, and yet choose to see it in two entirely different lights. Haters will often say that Michael’s fans see only what they want to see. But is this not equally true of them?
Those of us who admire Michael’s character will see someone so inherently honest that even the thought of taking a pen-which most likely someone had simply left lying about-as something he needed to apologize for.
Those who want to tear him down will laugh and point and say, This guy couldn’t even spell pen!
Frankly, it says a lot more about their own cyninism and short sightedness than it does anything about Michael’s intelligence OR character.
4 thoughts on “It's All In The Perspective”
Michael made this slip of the pen years ago.(I was aware of it from a positive interview with a former recording studio colleague, who was making the point about how honest and decent he was).
However Michael was never allowed to make even the most trivial of errors without it being documented for all time, and used by some to belittle him, until it grew into the most dreadful character assasination.
Teenage behaviour aside, I just hope this doesn’t happen to Paris.
(By the way.. I noticed in my last comment I wrote “to” when I meant “too”.I know the difference .. but sometimes brains go into automatic mode and the wrong words get written or spoken. Thank goodness nobody is going to judge my worth as a human being for the rest of my life because of it !! Thanks for this post Raven, and please forgive my sarcasm.. lol)
“You see, it’s all in the perspective. A person CHOOSES what they want to focus on-the positive or the negative. They make the conscious choice as to which has more value or merit. And by choosing which details they wish to focus on, they make the conscious choice in whether to build a person up, or tear them down.”
I find myself in a conundrum here. Taken together with everything else we’ve learned about MIchael Jackson, this note seems like evidence of his courtesy. AND I also wish that he’d had better writing (and spelling). 😉 | {
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Most legends or myths are found to be based on factual events sometime in the distant past, or from some spiritual ritual believed to have come from Source.
What about the waterfall, what is the significance of water running over a cliff?
Many people who have had to opportunity to visit the land in between lives describe the waterfall on the river of life as being vibrations of green light, like vibrations in the water, vibrations that change to red and varying degrees of the colors and surround the soul.
They are described as soft, faint glows of light combining in various colors resembling rhythmic and vibrational waves, that many describe as sound waves.
They spread out and are no longer water, but just colors transcending into a vacuum, being sucked into a hole, much like water in a whirlpool, or a black hole in space.
Souls who are privy to this describe themselves as becoming one with the waterfall, becoming one with the mist that forms, and thus becoming one with the waterfall, becoming more of an energy than matter with no defined shape.
At this point, the soul feels it is just energy attempting to combine with the Source.
Most describe the experience as not being able to combine with the Source, and being ignored by it.
Perhaps, as many philosophies teach, we all need to attain a certain level of evolvement before we can unite with Divine Source. | {
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@crazietalker
While Coach K, Wojo, and Collins are working with Team USA in England, Nate James and Jeff Capel are in North Augusta, SC for the annual Nike Peach Jam – the final event of the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (also known as EYBL). This year’s event features a bevy of Duke prospects for the Classes of 2013 and 2014, including Duke’s lone 2013 commit, Matt Jones.
All of these games will be broadcast online, and we’ve highlighted a schedule for each of the prospects that Coaches Capel and James will be scouting over the next few days. The players who have listed Duke or have been offered by Duke are as follows:
Class of 2013:
Class of 2014:
SG Matt Jones (Texas Titans)
SF Andrew Wiggins (CIA Bounce)
PF Julius Randle (Texas Titans)
SF Theo Pinson (CP3 All-Stars)
SF Semi Ojeleye (MoKan Elite)
C Jahlil Okafor (Mac Irvin Fire)
PF Marcus Lee (California Supreme)
PG Tyus Jones (Howard Pulley)
SF Ishmail Wainwright (Team Takeover)
SF Justise Winslow (Houston Hoops)
SG Allerik Freeman (Boo Williams)
—
Of course, this is not a complete list of all of the prospects considering Duke in the next few classes. In 2013, Duke is also looking at Jabari Parker, who will not suit up due to injury, in addition to Tennessee natives Austin Nichols and Robert Hubbs.
Below is the upcoming schedule, starting with this evening, with links to the live broadcasts.Links for games on late Friday night, Saturday, and the elimination rounds on Sunday will be updated when available.
Amile Jefferson has committed to Duke University, becoming the Blue Devils’ second commit in the high school class of 2012, joining shooting guard Rasheed Sulaimon. Jefferson, a 6-foot-8, 200 pound forward from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, played at Friends’ Central School in Philadelphia. His team has made consistent appearances in the national rankings over the past few years.
Duke entered the recruiting process for Jefferson late in the game, but were able to come on strong enough to snag the power forward, who is touted by Scout.com as the #3 power forward in the class of 2012. Jefferson was also considering Villanova along with Ohio State, North Carolina State, and Kentucky. “Duke was always a school I had interest in,” he said in an interview with Scout.com on January 15. “I’ve been talking to Coach K. You go there, you know you have a chance to compete for national championships and play with some of the best players in the country.”
Jefferson averaged 18.5 points and 9.6 rebounds per game for Friends’ Central during his junior season. He led the team to its third consecutive PAISAA title and was named Gatorade State Player of the Year. One of the reasons why Jefferson is a great fit at Duke is because like many of his future Blue Devils teammates, he is not used to losing. His high school team went 75-9 in his first three years there.
He recently finished the regular season for the Phoenix when Friends Central fell 55-53 to The Westtown School in the Friends School League semifinal. Jefferson led the way for Friends Central with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and two blocks. They moved on to compete in the Pennsylvania Independent Schools Tournament, where they capped off Jefferson’s illustrious high school career with a fourth consecutive state championship, finishing with a 22-5 record. Amile finished his senior season averaging 19.8 points per game and had a double-double in his team’s state title victory over The Westtown School.
Amile brings to Duke the perfect combination of strength, size, speed, and power. He’s the type of player that can hurt you all over the floor, with an uncanny ability to get to the hole and a quickly developing perimeter game. Head coach Jason Polykoff at Friends’ Central told Crazie-Talk that the most impressive part of Amile’s game was actually not one of his numerous physical tools. “One of the reason why so many schools wanted Amile was because besides his physical abilities he has such a high basketball IQ,” Polykoff said. “He’ll come into his college program with an understanding of the game that not all freshmen have.”
Polykoff contended that although Amile is one of the top seniors in the country, he still has some work to do before he takes his game to the next level. “He knows that he needs to get stronger and ready to play against these other guys that have these developed bodies. He knows he needs to improve his outside shot,” Polykoff said. “He can handle the ball for someone his size but he can always work on his perimeter game and attack the ball off the dribble. He finishes pretty well but now he’s got to be ready to finish with contact.”
His coach also told Crazie-Talk that Duke’s main draw for Jefferson was its tradition of excellence both on and off the basketball court. Playing for Mike Krzyzewski, arguably the greatest basketball coach on the planet, is quite the draw, but Jefferson truly desired to play in awinning basketball environment. But according to his coach, Duke means more to Amile than just basketball. “I think Duke basketball aside, the academic reputation of Duke is very appealing to him,” Polykoff added. “He’s a kid that is used to going to rigorous academic schools throughout middle school and high school. If you can combine high academics with a good basketball program, that’s kind of his niche.”
One of the most impressive facets of Amile’s game is his unselfish outlook on the game of basketball. He is the type of player that will do whatever it takes to help his team win a basketball game, whether that is scoring 30 points or taking two shots and pulling down 15 rebounds or blocking five shots. “It’s very rare for somebody of his skill nowadays to be more concerned about the team than the individual, and he’s been doing that since he was a freshman, Polykoff said. “He just wants to win.”
The addition of Jefferson is a significant victory for the Blue Devils in what has proved to be a very difficult recruiting season. He will add extra depth to the team next year and has the potential to develop into a prolific scorer in years to come. His devotion to academics as well as basketball and the Duke basketball tradition indicates that Amile intends to stick around- don’t expect a one and done from this kid. Before he tries to take his talents to the pros, he wants to win a ring or two. Polykoff was adamant that the sky truly is the limit for Amile Jefferson. “If he improves the way he’s improved over the last four years, he’s one of the best seniors in the country right now I don’t see why he couldn’t remain one of the best players in the country at the college level.”
Crazie Talk headed down to the Queen City on Saturday for the 2012 edition of the Jordan Brand Classic. This was our second straight year at the event. Last year, we had the chance to see three Duke guys play (Austin Rivers, Marshall Plumlee, and Mike Gbinije*) and a TON of other talent, including four members from Kentucky’s national championship squad this year- Anthony Davis, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Marquis Teague, and Kyle Wiltjer. The game featured many stars whose names we’ll soon hear called at the NBA Draft in a few months. Needless to say, we decided it’d be worthwhile to check the event out this year.
The Legend. (Photo credit: Lipofsky Basketballphoto.com)
We started out to Charlotte in the afternoon, luckily having better weather this time than the tornadoes we faced last year. The first game we saw in Time Warner Cable Arena, home of the 7 win & 52 loss Charlotte Bobcats, was the international game, featuring some of the best young talent from around the globe. Lucas Silva Dias from Brazil (18 points, 12 rebounds) and Federico Mussini (21 points) from Italy led the way for their team to an 89-87 victory in overtime. I was beyond thrilled to have the chance to watch a 16 year old by the name of Domantas Sabonis though, a member of the losing squad. He is the youngest son of NBA and international legend Arvydas Sabonis, who I fondly remember watching as a kid. Here’s to hoping he can make it big like his father did.
Next up was the regional game featuring some of North Carolina’s finest. This game included a number of seniors committed to top programs, including Peter Jurkin (Indiana), Brandon Bolden (Georgetown), and Montay Brandon (FSU), to name a few. Outside of Brandon, there were also guys going to other ACC schools: Clemson (though Josh Smith did not actually play), Wake Forest, and Virginia Tech. The one performance that really stood out to me was that of co-MVP Montrezl Harrell. Harrell will be heading off to Blacksburg to join Seth Greenberg and the Virginia Tech Hokies next season. Watch out for him, folks. He finished with 22 points on 11-14 shooting, 12 boards, and seven blocks, a number of which came in key points in the game, including the opposing squad’s last-second shot to try send it to overtime. He has the potential to make a huge impact on both sides of the ball next year in the ACC.
Around 7 PM, the All-American game tipped off. This is the one that everyone came to see. It’s the game that included the #1 and #2 players in the nation who just on Wednesday announced where they’ll be playing their college ball: Nerlens Noel and Shabazz Muhammad. It also featured four top high school phenoms who will be playing next year in the Triangle area: Rodney Purvis (N.C. State), J.P. Tokoto (UNC), Brice Johnson (UNC), and Rasheed Sulaimon (Duke). Noel, Purvis, Tokoto, and Johnson were part of the East squad, while Muhammad and Sulaimon were on the West.
The East got off to a quick start, going up 10-0. J.P. Tokoto led the way early with a couple of nice finishes. He definitely looked like the most athletic player on the court, at least early on. The West’s first points actually came off the hands of Brice Johnson. Johnson must have trained with Tyler Zeller, as he tipped in a missed shot…lol. Funnily enough, those were Brice’s only “points” of the game. At times, he really seemed to disappear from the game, and he was the only player not to score in the game. And despite Tokoto’s strong start, he didn’t do much in the second half, finishing with only 8 points, all of which came in the first 20 minutes of the game.
The first half, though, was very sloppy. It reminded me quite a bit of the Nike Hoop Summit just one week before, in which the U.S. squad of many of these players was beaten by a team of international phenoms, including Duke recruit Andrew Wiggins. At the JBC, the teams combined for 22 turnovers in the first half and shot 1-19 from 3. A bright spot in that stat line was that the lone three came from future Blue Devil Sulaimon, who finished the half with 7 points and 7 rebounds.
A number of players made themselves known in the second half though with some solid play. Alex Poythress (Kentucky commit, former Duke recruit) finished the game with 16 points on 7-8 shooting. In the end, Sheed’s squad won the game 99-95. The two MVPs were Shabazz Muhammad (20 points) and Rodney Purvis (22 points). Muhammad’s had an impressive stretch here against some of the nation’s (and world’s) best. He recently was named MVP of the McDonald’s All-American game and also became the all-time leader in points scored in the Nike Hoop Summit after his 35-point performance. As he announced last week, he’ll be heading off to Westwood next season, choosing UCLA over Duke and Kentucky.
Purvis and Sulaimon were definitely going at it throughout the game. You could see a little competition brewing between the two. It’ll be interesting to see what happens when they meet again in conference play in the upcoming season. Sulaimon, for the most part, played well. He finished with 13 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists. He did have 4 turnovers though, many of which came on some poor decisions and off-target passes. It’s important to note that he was playing out of position in this game. The West team was playing without a true point guard, and so Rasheed, a natural 2-guard, took on many of those duties. (Quick aside: UNC-bound Marcus Paige was supposed to carry that role, but he was absent from the game, recovering from foot surgery.) The future Duke guard was 3 of 6 from beyond the arc and showed clutch play down the stretch, hitting a big 3-pointer in the game’s closing minutes.
Though Purvis outscored Sulaimon, the West squad got the W. (Photo: Crazie Talk)
Many are quick to compare Rasheed Sulaimon’s game to that of former National Champion and current Trail Blazer Nolan Smith. I’ll have to admit…their styles of play are eerily similar. They’re both great shooters who move around on the court well and can create for themselves. After the game, we met up with Rasheed for a quick interview:
He seems like a great guy who is just excited to put on that Duke jersey and play his heart out each and every game. You can’t hope for a young man much better than that.
Another senior in the game was Tony Parker, a Duke recruit from Georgia who has been on Duke’s radar for quite some time. He’ll be deciding between Duke, UCLA, Kansas, Ohio State, and UGA on Friday, so be on the lookout for that announcement. After the game, he did say that playing for Coach K and a school like Duke with so much rich basketball tradition and great academics is a draw for him, so that does give us a glimmer of hope.
Well, that’s it for us at the Jordan Brand Classic. Got questions or comments on anything we said? Let us hear them!
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*We’re hearing reports that Michael Gbinije is to transfer from Duke. If that’s the case, we wish him the best of luck wherever he ends up. Thanks for the one year! Stay alert for any updates on this developing story.
The Final Four has finally arrived, but for the second staight year, no team on Tobacco Road will be vying to cut down the nets this Monday. Instead, both Duke and UNC have shifted into offseason mode, which means a ton of chatter about early entry, recruiting, and projecting what next season’s squads will look like.
It’s safe to say that the top of the ACC next year will look very, very different.
On Monday, Duke officially said goodbye to Austin Rivers, ending an up-and-down season that, for better or for worse, revolved around Rivers. He became the stuff of legend on February 8th in Chapel Hill, but Duke struggled down the stretch and bowed out in Coach K’s first Round of 64 exit since 2007. Junior center Mason Plumlee still has yet to make a decision. This past season was Mason’s best yet, but he will likely not be a lottery selection in this year’s class. His decision will likely influence the decisions of recruits, like Amile Jefferson and Tony Parker. But until Mason chooses to go pro or not, we’ll have little to no idea what this Duke team will be like next year.
But Duke isn’t the only school with uncertainty lying ahead in 2012-2013. This afternoon, Harrison Barnes, John Henson, and Kendall Marshall announced their intentions to join Tyler Zeller as potential lottery selections in this year’s NBA draft. Sophomore Reggie Bullock is the only remaining member of Carolina’s starting five who will be returning next year. It has been rumored that freshman James Michael McAdoo is also considering leaving early for the draft as well.
Many Duke fans are glad we'll never have to see these guys again. (photo courtesy of DukeBluePlanet.com)
As you can imagine, these losses will be a great loss for the Tar Heels in the team’s efforts to repeat as ACC regular season champions next year. Barnes, Marshall, Henson, and Zeller accounted for just over 68% of North Carolina’s scoring last season. Barnes, Henson, and Zeller also combined to form arguably the nation’s most formidable frontcourt. The three accounted for 54.9% of the Tar Heels’ rebounds in 2011, and were much of the reason why North Carolina was the top rebounding team in the country at 45.2 boards per game. You also can’t forget about the role Marshall played as a distributor, setting the ACC assists record while averaging 9.8 per contest. With Kendall gone and Stilman White headed on a religious mission for the next two years, Huckleberry Hound will probably look to senior Dexter Strickland and freshman Marcus Paige to take up point guard duties.
This decimation of Carolina’s roster is an interesting twist in what has been an eventful offseason for the ACC thus far.Even with a recruiting class of four players coming in next season, North Carolina is essentially starting from scratch. As Carolina looks to rebuild (or as the national media will say ad nauseum, ‘reload’) and with Duke’s roster in flux, N.C State seems primed for a run to the top of the league. The Wolfpack, fresh off of a Sweet 16 run, will add three McDonald’s All-Americans as freshmen (T.J Warren, Rodney Purvis, and Tyler Lewis) next season – with the possibility of adding a fourth in Amile Jefferson. The only current N.C State player considering the draft is C.J Leslie, but regardless of his decision, State will be very, very strong next season. If Plumlee does indeed enter the draft and Duke misses on its three remaining targets, it won’t be unexpected to see the balance of power shift away from the blues next year.
This is just the beginning to what looks to be an eventful offseason. We’ll know more and more about what the Blue Devils will look like in the coming weeks.
* * *
P.S. Remember November 13, 2009, when Harrison Barnes promised to leave a legacy at UNC? That ‘legacy’ will include zero championships of any kind, zero Final Fours, and a losing record against Duke. That’s really something to Skype home about.
Central Michigan shooting guard Trey Zeigler is on Duke’s campus Friday, according to team sources. Zeigler announced he was transferring from Central Michigan on Wednesday after his father and head coach, Ernie Zeigler, was fired after the Chippewas went 11-21 last season. In two years at Central Michigan, Zeigler played a huge role in the Chippewas’ offense. He led the team in both scoring and rebounding last season, averaging 15.8 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. He will have two years of college eligibility remaining after he transfers.
The Blue Devils are very interested in the prospect of Zeigler joining the team. Although he did not receive an offer from Duke as a high school senior, Zeigler, a native of Mount Pleasant, Michigan, was a highly touted recruit coming out of high school. Despite not receiving an offer from Duke, he did receive interest from the coaching staff and was very interested in playing for Duke during his high school career. He received scholarship offers from Arizona State, Michigan, Michigan State, Oklahoma, and UCLA before ultimately deciding to play for his father at Central Michigan.
He is exactly the type of player that Duke needs. Zeigler is a long and versatile wing player, something that the Blue Devils severely lacked last season. He has the ability to handle the ball and can play point guard, shooting guard, or small forward. He can finish at the rim with the best of them, and matches up much better on the defensive end with many of the ACC’s current stars. This news comes as a bit of consolation for Duke fans, as signs are currently pointing to both Austin Rivers and Mason Plumlee departing early for the NBA. We are still waiting on official announcements from both of them as to their future plans.
Duke has a great record with recruiting transfers, and rarely has one who has visited campus not ended up playing for the Blue Devils. Notable Duke transfers from the past include Roshown McLeod, Dahntay Jones, and current Duke guard Seth Curry. Curry was the last player to transfer to Duke, coming from Liberty University after the 2009 season. He sat out the entirety of 2010 before becoming eligible to play.
We had to much fun with our last mailbag, we figured we’d just have to do it again. The NCAA Tournament is our favorite time of the year, so we’re here to answer all your questions about Duke and March Madness.
The Blue Devils prepare for their first round game with an open practice in Greensboro (photo courtesy of DukeBluePlanet.com)
First, let’s take a look at a couple questions about Duke’s chances in the tournament this year.
Our most honest assessment is that this is going to be a very tough road for Duke this year. The selection committee was not kind to the South region this year, which is by far the hardest of the four. This is particularly perplexing because the top seed in this year’s tournament, Kentucky, resides in the South. Typically the selection committee would seek to reward the top overall seed with the easiest road to the Final Four, but apparently this year that is not the case. The South region is stacked full of talented teams- other than Kentucky teams like Baylor and Indiana appear to be particularly dangerous. Luckily for Duke and Kentucky, two of the other biggest threats in this region, Wichita St. and UNLV both went down on Thursday.
As for Duke, this is a team that came off of a difficult stretch late in the season. After the first round none of these games will be easy, regardless of their opponent. Our predictions for the South region had Duke advancing to the Elite 8 before falling to Kentucky, but to even get there will be a challenge. We hope that Duke will find its form and be able to accomplish this. Luckily for us, Duke has proven all year that it will play up or down to its competition, so having other tough teams in the region could actually be beneficial for the Blue Devils. Our predictions have Duke defeating #10 seed Xavier in the second round and #6 seed UNLV in the Sweet 16. We already know the latter will not be happening. There simply isn’t another team in this region that will be able to compete with Kentucky, unfortunately. They are too talented and Anthony Davis will give this team fits inside.
We received quite a few questions about Duke forward Ryan Kelly and his availability.
Q: So what’s the update on Ryan Kelly? I feel we need him to make a deep run. – @dukesjayashQ: Will Ryan be back for the NCAA Tournament? – @bryan_williams2Q: Is Ryan Kelly going to play Friday? And if he does at 100%? – @Dukeallday24
We learned yesterday that Ryan Kelly would not be available to play in Duke’s first round contest against Lehigh. His availability beyond then remains to be seen. Rumblings around campus have been that Kelly’s sprain was fairly severe, and it appears the team has been rushing to try and get him back on the court as soon as possible. I would say they will probably be cautious in doing so as to not jeopardize his ability to play later in the tournament and train during the offseason. At the moment, I would say that it is doubtful that you see very much of him this weekend, and if you do he will be far from 100%.
As for Kelly’s importance to this Duke team, it is unquestionable. When Ryan Kelly plays well, this team wins basketball games. Duke is 17-1 in games where Ryan scores 10 points or more. It was clear that this team was missing something while playing without him in the ACC Tournament. Not only do they lack a big body that eats up space in the paint, they lose one of their better shooters and most versatile matchup problems. Let’s all hope for a speedy recovery, because it will be hard for Duke to be successful beyond the first weekend without Ryan Kelly.
Q: If Duke & UK meet in the Elite 8, we’ll all start having 1992 flashbacks. What does Duke need to make it happen? – @jstorm64
First thing’s first- Duke is going to have to make it to the Elite 8 to face Kentucky. But in order to make it to the Elite 8 and to knock off Kentucky, the Blue Devils will have to follow the same gameplan. First and foremost, they’ll need to shoot the lights out. They cannot afford to have a game where they don’t knock down their long range shots against any opponent in this region, let alone Kentucky. They will need to get the Plumlee brothers involved early and often inside. Throughout the season, the Miles and Mason have been Duke’s two most efficient options on the offensive end. But more than anything, this team will need to defend the hell out of any team they face, especially on the inside. They’ll need to lock down the opposing team’s big men- for Kentucky this would mean Anthony Davis- and crash the board relentlessly. If these two meet in the Elite 8 we’ll have many flashbacks about the greatest college basketball game ever played 20 years ago. But fact of the matter is, Duke was the more talented team in that game. This year, they won’t be, so there is a much slimmer margin for error when going up against a power like Kentucky. Unfortunately, to make a long story short, they will need to be nothing short of perfect.
Q: Heard anything on Amile Jefferson and what are our chances in your mind on Shabazz? – @dukefan6190
Amile Jefferson’s situation continues to be a mystery to us. It was our understanding that Amile would be prepared to make a decision this past weekend, but it appears he has chosen to wait a bit longer and weigh his options. This indicates that the competition for Amile between Duke and NC State is a bit closer than we originally thought. Our best guess is that he is waiting until the offseason to see whether certain players from Duke or NC State will decide to leave early and go pro before making his decision. It is unclear, however, whether that decision will be motivated by playing time or whether he is waiting to see if certain players he wants to play with will have left school before he arrives. Hopefully more on this situation becomes clear to us soon.
As for Shabazz Muhammad, he continues to weigh his options. My gut feeling is that Duke’s chances to land Shabazz are fairly good, but only time will tell at this point. If this season has showed us anything, it’s that we need a player like him to come here.
Q: How could anyone pick Missouri to get past the Elite 8 with Frank Haith as their head coach? – @Mark_Jessup
Well, it’s pretty easy. We picked Missouri to get to the Final Four in our preview of the West region. Although Haith’s reputation as a head coach is suspect due to his past endeavors, you’ve have to hand it to him and his team because Missouri is playing some fantastic basketball right now. Other than Michigan State, who many consider to be the weakest and most vulnerable of the #1 seeds, there isn’t much other competition in the West region for them to face. Other than that, it’s just a case of a hot team playing great ball. They’ve proven to be an offensive juggernaut, and we believe that will at least get them through one of the weaker regions in this year’s tournament.
Great question. As for my most memorable Duke game, it would have to be Duke coming back from 22 points down in the Final Four against Maryland in 2001. I remember staying up late and watching that game with my parents when I was just nine years old. That was probably one of the most exciting basketball games of my childhood and really got me hooked on the NCAA Tournament.
As for my most memorable non-Duke game, I’m going to have to go with the 2008 national championship game: Kansas 75, Memphis 68 in OT. That’s definitely one of the most underrated tournament games of the past decade, and Mario Chalmers’ 3-pointer to send the game into overtime is definitely one of the most underrated clutch shots ever hit. Derrick Rose showed glimpses of the brilliance we would watch in the NBA for years to come, but good triumphed over evil as John Calipari’s Memphis Tigers choked the game away with poor free throw shooting and ineligible SAT scores.
Thanks to everyone for submitting some great questions. Hope you enjoyed the mailbag, and enjoy the basketball this weekend. This is the best weekend in sports.
With the NCAA Tournament just hours away, we continue our breakdown of the entire field. After looking at the South, West, and East regions in the last two days, we’ll take a look at the Midwest region, where UNC and Kansas look to be on a collision course in St. Louis.
The Midwest region.
Best First Round Matchup: #3 Georgetown vs. #14 Belmont
There are quite a few to pick from here. Assuming Cal takes down South Florida, Cal and Temple should be a hell of a 5/12 matchup. NC State and San Diego State should also be pretty interesting. But a 3-seed has only lost to 14-seed 15 times in the history of the tournament – and this might be the year to add another game to that list. Belmont is dangerous, dangerous team. Duke fans know this first hand, as the Bruins took the Devils all the way down to the final minutes in Cameron in the first game of the 2011-2012 season. Belmont loves to play fast, and they put up a ton of points -averaging just over 81 points a game while making almost 9 three’s each time out. Georgetown, in contrast, plays much, much slower, using their trio of big men – Hollis Thompson, Otto Porter, and Henry Sims to dominate the paint. They also have a history of completely flaming out in the tournament. This should be a fun matchup, and Belmont has all the tools – experience, ability to make shots, and fearlessness – to take down the big boys.
Dark Horse: #11 NC State
We like Belmont a lot, but for variety’s sake, we’ll go with the Pack as our dark horse in this region. Yes, they’ve had some struggles but have come on very strong at the end of the season. They brought it against Carolina in the ACC Tournament, and they clearly have the potential to be a very, very good team – especially when CJ Leslie has got his head in the game. We’re not really sure how deep they will go, mainly because they’ve struggled with consistency all year, but if they play with the fire they had in Atlanta last week, the rest of the region should watch out.
Player to Watch: Ray McCallum, #15 Detroit
Ray McCallum is an absolute stud at the point guard position. He was a heavily recruited McDonald’s All American – one of a trio of point guards, including Brandon Knight and Kyrie Irving, sought after by Duke in the Class of 2010. Instead of heading to Duke, UCLA, Kansas, or any of the other bevy of high majors going after him, he chose instead to head to Detroit to play for his father. Leader of the Horizon League tournament champions, McCallum averaged 23.0 points on 63% shooting during the first leg of postseason play. If Detroit has any chance at being a Cinderella this season, it will all depend on Ray McCallum.
Our Picks:
After three regions of mostly chalk, we’ve finally got some upsets brewing in the Midwest. #12 California should win its First Four game against #12 South Florida, and make a run at the Sweet Sixteen by taking down #5 Temple and #4 Michigan. The bottom half of the bracket will also be dominated by a few double-digit seeds, with #11 NC State and #14 Belmont advancing, with Belmont taking down the Pack and heading to the Sweet Sixteen. Meanwhile, both UNC and Kansas should dominate their relatively weak draws and meet in the Elite Eight. It will all depend on which version of Tyshawn Taylor shows up, but if he can be steady and cut down on turnovers, the Jayhawks should be able to book their tickets to New Orleans.
Below are our complete picks. Let us know what you think in the comment box! | {
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The International Committee of Silent Chess (I.C.S.C.) was founded in 1949 in Copenhagen (Denmark) and is recognised by Federation Internationale des Echecs (F.I.D.E.) and by the International Olympic Committee (I.O.C.); it publishes its periodical magazine "Mitteilungsblatt" (I.C.S.C. Bulletin) every four months.
The I.C.S.C. is an international organization based on voluntary service. It establishes and organizes the World Individuals events for both Deaf men and women, World Teams Deaf Chess Championships, Asian, European (Continental) Clubs Chess Championships and friendly international tournaments. | {
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The 3-star, 4-star and 5-star hotel price index increased by 9% in March 2018, compared to February 2018;
In March 2018, the daily rates for 3-star, 4-star and 5-star standard double hotel rooms increased significantly in Tbilisi (15.5%), while the daily rates decreased the most in Mtskheta-Mtianeti (-10.6%);
During the last five months (November 2017-March 2018), in terms of regions, the most expensive 3-star and 4-star hotels were in Mtskheta-Mtianeti;
In March 2018, 292,017 tourists visited Georgia, which is 64% more compared to February. | {
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Man City and the FA Cup Final
Recap the history of Man City and the FA Cup finals from City's first win in 1904 to their latest cup final appearance in 2013. A history of records, heart (and neck) break and ecstasy . Man City and the FA cup final go back over 111 years - here is the history of that relationship.
Man City and the FA Cup Final: A history
Man City and the FA Cup
Being born in the late 70’s, Man City and the FA Cup never went together for me. During the late 80’s, 90’s and noughties we didn’t get anywhere near a semi-final never mind a final. I watched FA cup TV coverage with dread as they replayed Ricky Villa’s goal for Tottenham in the 81 final (I was 1 at the time so didn’t make it to Wembley).
However looking back through Man City’s history the FA cup has provided many great moments!
Man City and the FA Cup 1904
City’s first major honour was the FA Cup in 1904. City beat Bolton at Crystal Palace to win the FA Cup for the first time.
They say we have no history! Yet on the 23rd April 1904:
The cup win was 5 years before United won it, 26 years before Arsenal, 61 years before Liverpool and 66 years before Chelsea. A little reminder for the next time there fans say we have no history!
1933, 1934 and a record attendance
Man City reached FA cup finals in successive seasons in 1933 and 1934. City lost out to Everton in ’33 but beat Portsmouth in ’34 to win the cup for a second time. It was during the ’34 cup campaign that City created a record that still stands to this day.
During the sixth round clash with Stoke City, my Granddad and 84,568 others crammed into Maine Road. The attendance of 84,569 was (and still is) the highest home attendance of any club in the history of English football!
1955, 1956 and a German goalkeeper
With City it seems like you wait ages for a cup final appearance and then two come at the same time! Having reached consecutive appearances in ’33 and ’34, City did the same in ’55 and ’56.
As in ’33/’34 City lost the ’55 cup final (this time to Newcastle) and won the ’56 FA Cup against Birmingham.
The ’56 FA Cup final is best know not for the win but for an injury. With 12 minutes to go City’s legendary German goalkeeper, Bert Trautmann, took a knock to his neck and played on. Finding out a few days later that he had broken his neck!
Quite how Bert Trautmann survived the war is a mystery, never mind how he lived with a broken neck. Whilst he was lucky in survival, he was unlucky with his son being knocked over and killed by a car and refusing a business opportunity that could have made him very rich.
Trautmann: The Biography is a recommended must read for any City fan interested in history. To read the full review click here.
1969 v Leicester
After a wait of 13 years and a dip into the second tier of English football City, under the great Mercer and Allison partnership, returned to the FA Cup final after winning the title the previous season. The great team containing Lee, Bell and Summerbee, won the cup thanks a goal from Neil Young. City went on to win the League Cup and European Cup winner’s cup the following season.
Mancitygifts currently have a 1969 replica shirt signed by Man City holy trinity of Lee, Bell and Summerbee available here.
1981 and Ricky “blooming” Villa
We’ll skip over the 1981 FA Cup final loss to Tottenham – you’ll see the Ricky Villa goal watching almost every FA Cup match on TV. It wasn’t even the best goal of the game!
A long wait! 2011
After a wait of 42 years (between FA Cup wins) and 35 years (between any cup wins!) City won the FA Cup.
As a 31 year old (at the time), I’d never seen City win anything. Ok I’d been to Wembley once and seen the Wembley 99 playoff final win, and I’d watched Bernarbia and Berkovic inspire City under Kevin Keegan to become First Division champions, but I’d not seen a major honour win.
2011 was a great time to be a City fan. The Poznan was at it’s highest, the football was the best I’d ever seen and Yaya Toure was cake obsessed. Plus we beat United in the semi final!
Yaya Toure scored the vital goals in both the semi and then the final win against Stoke. The mocking banner at Old Trafford had to come down.
2013 Wigan and the Wig met the Goat
City had to wait two years before returning to a Wembley FA Cup final this time. Like many City fans I awoke to the news that whatever the result the manager, that had helped transform my losing team into a title winning team, would be sacked. For those who had grown up watching manager after manager come and go it wasn’t news we wanted to hear. Although the season after we won a domestic double!
The match, the atmosphere and the weather were all rubbish and the result was terrible. We lost to lowly Wigan!
The only positive was that I got to meet one of my heroes Shaun Goater before the game!
And so comes the end of Man City and the FA Cup final………………………..for now!
Mancitygifts.com is a participant in the Amazon EU Associates Programme, an affiliate advertising programme designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.co.uk. | {
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K-Cup Portion Pack allows you to enjoy a single-serving of your favorite blend.
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The tenant removed the section of wall containing the mural and put it up for sale;
The court held that although valuable, the existence of the Banksy mural may be considered disrepair;
However, the tenants method of remedying the disrepair was not appropriate;
The court held that, once removed, it became the property of the landlord given its substantial value and ordered the tenant to return it.
The facts
Dreamland Leisure Limited (Dreamland), the Defendant in this case, operated an amusement arcade from premises in Folkestone. The premises were let to Dreamland pursuant to a lease granted for 20 years from 24 June 2002.
During the course of an art project organised by the Claimant, The Creative Foundation (the Foundation), a mural was painted on the external wall of Dreamlands premises. The mural was attributed to Banksy and, therefore, it attracted a considerable amount of attention. In fact, according to the press, the value of the mural was between £300,000 and £470,000.
Soon after the mural appeared, Dreamland removed the section of the wall containing the mural and sent it to America where it was exhibited for sale. Dreamland made good the wall, although pretty soon afterwards further graffiti appeared as the building had effectively become a Banksy shrine.
The landlord assigned any interest that it may have had in the mural to The Foundation, who brought proceedings against Dreamland for delivery of the mural.
The key question was who had title to the mural once it had been removed from the premises?
The arguments
The Foundation argued that the mural was part of the land that had been demised and that although Dreamland had a right to use the premises in accordance with the terms of the lease, it had no right to remove any part of the premises for other purposes. Furthermore, they also argued that Dreamland committed a breach of the lease by carrying out an alteration without consent and that the brickwork that was removed became a chattel which now belonged to the landlord.
Dreamland claimed that the mural caused the premises to be in disrepair, that it was therefore obliged pursuant to the terms of the lease to remedy that disrepair and that the method adopted was down to their choice.
Summary Judgement
This was an application for a Summary Judgment brought by the Foundation on the ground that Dreamland had no real prospect of success if the matter reached trial. Consequently, the Foundation had a fairly high hurdle to persuade the Court that the claim should be dismissed at that stage.
The Decision
The Judge held that it was common ground between the parties that the covenant to keep the premises in good repair and condition was only breached if the premises was out of repair and condition.
Although the Foundation argued that there was no disrepair given the value of the Banksy, the Judge accepted Dreamlands submission that the mural might give rise to an obligation on Dreamlands part to do something pursuant to its lease obligations.
However, the Court went on to consider the different methods of repair that could be adopted as follows:
it could be painted over;
it could be removed by chemical or abrasive cleaning;
the wall could be removed and replaced, as carried out by Dreamland.
Dreamland claimed that they had removed the section of the wall on the advice of a local art dealer as there was concern that other graffiti artists would consider it as a shrine and it would therefore attract more graffiti. For that reason it was a reasonable method of repair.
The Judge held that the removal of the mural would not prevent (and indeed on the facts did not prevent) the appearance of further graffiti and, therefore, the method adopted by Dreamland did not justify their chosen remedy. Consequently, Dreamland was not entitled to remove the mural in order to comply with its repairing obligation.
The Court then went on to consider what terms should be implied into the lease in these circumstances. The Court held that where part of a demised premises is lawfully removed by a tenant, it then becomes a chattel. If it is a chattel of substantial value, then that chattel becomes the property of the landlord.
Advice
This is an unusual case which perhaps turned on its own facts. However, the principles may equally apply to landlords fixtures which are removed from the premises as part of any alterations. Naturally, it would be more usual in such circumstances to obtain the landlords consent and then the matter is much clearer. However, this case is a good reminder that tenants will not be allowed to take advantage of property which is let to them for a limited period of time.
Related topic hubs
Compare jurisdictions: Real Estate
“I have found the articles in Lexology/Newsstand to be closely related to the topics I am interested in. The selection feature during registration helps in increasing the relevance of the content of the emails. They’re easy to understand and I appreciate that they are only as long as necessary to cover the essentials. I would recommend it to other attorneys.” | {
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UNESCO to draw up plan to preserve Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Prabhu also thanked the people of the Darjeeling Hills for being an integral part of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Eco-system and their efforts in preserving and conserving it.
Guwahati: The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is all set to receive a major conservation boost with the Indian Railways on Friday signing a fund-in-trust agreement worth $5,33,332 to enable UNESCO develop a Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan (CCMP) and a framework for an effective management system for it. Signing the agreement in Darjeeling, union railway minister Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu described it as a historic moment and said Indian Railway was committed do everything possible to perverse the priceless heritage of the DHR that was declared a World Heritage by UNESCO in 1999.
Indian Railways signed a Fund in Trust (FIT) agreement with the UNESCO on Friday for development of a Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan (CCMP) for the heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) at Darjeeling in presence of the Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu and a senior regional representative of the UNESCO in charge of India, Bhutan, Maldives and Sri Lanka.
The FIT is aimed at preparing a conservation guideline for the century-old Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) source said here. As per the FIT the UNESCO has been tasked to draw up a CCMP for the DHR.
“Conservation of heritage starts at the hearts and minds of people and Indian Railway would do everything possible to conserve railway heritage,” Prabhu said after singing the FIT with UNESCO and lauded the people of Darjeeling for their contribution towards preserving DHR eco-system.
The Railway already transferred Rs 3.21 crore to the UNESCO to formulate the conservation plan and the FIT signed on Friday amounted to formal launching of the CCMP. The UNESCO with its expertise is expected to draw up a comprehensive plan for preservation of the DHR within two years.
The UNESCO had accorded the heritage tag to the DHR in 1999.
In the CCMP, apart from identifying the core, buffer and heritage areas, UNESCO would create an inventory of DHR assets, come up with guidelines on how to maintain the old heritage structure and document craftsmen associated with the DHR.
The DHR had started operation way back in 1881. It now has 13 steam locomotives aged over a century and six diesel engines. Last year, a UNESCO team had visited the DHR to conduct a preliminary survey. The total annual expenditure incurred by the Railway to run the DHR is Rs 15 crore and sources said that for the first time since Independence, the DHR was looking at breaking even, a NFR source informed.
While the CCMP for Darjeeling Himalayan Railway had actually commenced in April, 2016, once successful, it would be replicated in Nilgiri Mountain Railway and Kalka Shimla Railway too. While Nilgiri Mountain Railway was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, Kalka Shimla Railway was given the same status in 2008. The three together are called Unesco’s ‘Mountain Railways of India World Heritage Site.’ “This Fund-In-Trust agreement is the first step towards realising the CCMP, and aims at assisting the Ministry of Railways in enhancing the conservation and management of the Mountain Railways of India,” Northeast Frontier Railway CPRO PJ Sharma informed. An effective management system would in turn serve as the master document for formulating projects towards future interventions in respect to heritage matters of DHR and the other two mountain railways, he added.
With several stake-holders operating in the area, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway has been severely affected by rampant construction along the line and in coming up of urban settlements, lack of inventory of historic buildings that have been already demolished, renovated, restored or reconstructed has also added to its problems. “Lack of a management plan for the World Heritage property and an undefined buffer zone along the length of it has also severely threatened the future of the World Heritage property. There is lack of meaningful collaboration and clear governance arrangements to deal with regional issues affecting the DHR with special regard to the World Heritage property and buffer zone management,” CPRO Sharma said. The CCMP, once completed and implemented, is expected to remove the existing anomalies and ensure proper conservation of all the three heritage railways, he added. | {
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British explorers have recently discovered that Son Doong is much larger than the world’s biggest known cave.
The biggest section of Son Dong is five kilometers in length, 200 meters high and 150 meters wide, said Howard Limbirt of the British Cave Research Association team searching the area April 10-14, 2009.
Son Dong is much larger than Deer Cave in Malaysia, currently considered the world’s largest, an explorer said (Deer is 90 meters wide, 100 meters high and 2 kilometers long).
The Son Doong cave has replaced to take pole position as the world’s largest cave. | {
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Each of the Liberty Of The Seas cruise ship deck plans are conveniently combined
with a legend (showing cabin codes) and detailed review of all the deck's venues and
passenger-accessible indoor and outdoor areas. A separate link provides an extensive information
on Liberty Of The Seas staterooms (cabins and suites), including
photos, cabin plans and amenities by room type and category.
Note: CruiseMapper's Liberty Of The Seas deck plans are valid for the period 2018-2019-2020 (May 6 through April 26).
Liberty Of The Seas deck plan changes 2016 refurbishment review
During the ship’s drydock refurbishment in 2016 (January 10 through February 6), Royal Caribbean added a group of 3 waterslides located on deck 13 aft (near the Flowrider simulator). The Aqua Park (on lido deck 11) has a new, kids-only water play area called “Splashaway Bay”.
Liberty is the first Freedom-class RCI ship with waterslides. The first ever Royal Caribbean ship originally built with slides is Harmony of the Seas (launched 2016) with a total of 4 water slides.
The list of deck plan changes after the 2016 drydock refurbishment includes:
(On deck 13) Liberty Dunes (9-hole mini golf course with Golf Simulator) was replaced with the Perfect Storm waterslides (Cyclone, Typhoon). Also here, the Wipe Out! (20-seats burger bar) was replaced with the “Tidal Wave” slide (Boomerang-type). While the waterslide structure was ready after the ship’s refurbishment, its opening was re-scheduled for June 2016 due to some initial design flaws discovered after the slide’s installation. The design was altered by adding padding for the impact areas of the slide. | {
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]]>2010-09-03T17:12:24+00:002010-09-03T17:12:24+00:00http://linuxformat.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=12685&p=92625#p92625/etc/ppp/pap-secrets and /etc/ppp/chap-secrets to allow everyone from the group 'dialout' to be able to read/write to them, then add yourself to that group.
But I would just run wvdial with root privileges with sudo.
Not a security risk as sudo is *only* giving the *dialer* root access.
Switching user to root with su, then running wvdial on the other hand may be a security risk... never really thought about it.
]]>2010-09-03T16:27:03+00:002010-09-03T16:27:03+00:00http://linuxformat.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=12685&p=92624#p92624The next question is whether I should be running wvdial as root? Is this a security risk? If so then are there other permission amends that can be made to allow a user to run wvdial?
Interestingly kppp is launched as a user and doesn't need root permissions. Mind you I can't get a decent connection with that either!
When first plugged in the dongle it showed as a storage device as 1bbb:f000. After unmounting the device it changes to 1bbb:0017. I later discovered from the user_modeswitch forum that the device had actually switched at this point and was now ready for action.
I initially tried useing wvdial and after trial and error appeared to have a connection i.e. no apparent errors and a solid light on the dongle (more later). However, I could not load any web pages - just error messages! I then remembered the LXF113 article and that motivated me to try kppp. This was good because of the useful display giving some information about the connection. Sure enough I connected and peeked at 5kb/sec. It took about a minute to load the google home page - not great but a result! I disconnected and tried again but it wouldn't work and kppp kept locking up. It was late so I turned off the box for the night. Following day I got connected with kppp (apparently) with a data rate of 1kb/sec and no response from firefox. I had a steady light on the dongle but no data. I then went back to wvdial and got a solid light on the dongle - but no data.
Lights on dongle:
The booklet gives the following posibilites:Blue Modem is onGreen and orange Alternate blinking Searching for networkGreen Registered HSPA/UMTSOrange Registered GPRS/EDGE
I have never seen a blue light. If the PC is turned of with the dongle plugged in I get an orange light. When turned on it can flash either green, orange or RED. When I have an apparent connection it is either solid red or green (but not orange).
Given the absence of red in their note and my absence of blue in use I do not know what to think.
I am using LInux Mint Isadora KDE. Here is one of my sample wvdial.conf files that appears to connect: | {
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Digest
An elderly woman was hit by a car and killed while trying to cross Jog Road at an entrance to the Kings Point community, the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office said.
Officials said the woman, whose name will not be released until her family is notified, was trying to cross from the east side of Jog Road to the west near the community's entrance and Monaco Boulevard shortly before 11 a.m. Friday.
A southbound driver struck the woman. Authorities said she suffered critical injuries and was taken by ambulance to nearby Delray Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead.
No charges were filed Friday, but the investigation is ongoing, the Sheriff's Office said.
West Delray
Public's help sought to find missing security guard
Authorities are looking for a security guard who didn't return home after working his shift at the Lakes of Delray development on Atlantic Avenue near Jog Road, the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office said.
Earnest Marvin Halford, 79, of Margate, was last seen at the end of his shift Friday about 11 a.m. He left work driving a green 2000 Ford Windstar minivan that may have Florida license 418 11WT.
Halford, who is 6 feet tall and weighs 185 pounds, suffers from the early stages of dementia and usually takes U.S. 441 to get back to Broward County. He was last seen wearing his black and brown Vanguard security uniform.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Sheriff's Office at 561-688- 3400 or their local police department.
Lake Worth
Man dies after riding bicycle into car, police say
Police are investigating a fatal crash that occurred about 1:30 p.m. Thursday when an unidentified man rode his bicycle into a car, police said Friday.
The man riding a bicycle was headed west on Fourth Avenue South and peddled into the intersection of J Street, police said. He rode in front of a vehicle driven by Zully Francisco, 49, of Boca Raton, police said. The vehicle was headed south, police said.
It struck the bicyclist, who flew from the bike and fell to the ground. The impact killed him, police said. Francisco stopped the car, police said. Speed does not appear to be a factor in the crash, and charges are not expected, police said.
Anyone with information on the crash should call police at 561-586-1611.
Peercy, 35, is thought to have witnessed a recent homicide, police said. She leads a transient lifestyle and is known to frequent West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Riviera Beach and Lake Park, police said. She may be staying in hotels or motels anywhere in Palm Beach County, police said.
Detectives would not say which homicide Peercy may have witnessed, in order to protect her and the investigation, they said.
Anyone with information on her whereabouts should contact homicide investigators, 561-822-1700, or Crime Stoppers, 800-458-8477.
Delray Beach
7-Eleven, McDonald's robberies investigated
Police are investigating two robberies that occurred Thursday.
The first happened about 3 a.m. at a 7-Eleven convenience store at 718 George Bush Blvd. Two clerks told police that three masked men stormed in, ordered one of them to the ground and demanded that the other clerk open the register. One robber pistol-whipped a clerk and took the money before two customers scared the trio away.
About 10 p.m., one armed man robbed a McDonald's restaurant at 1400 S. Federal Highway, police said. The gunman ordered the cashier to hand over the money in the register and ran off with $470.
The McDonald's robber was wearing a black shirt, blue jeans and a stocking cap covering his hair. | {
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Antique Mongolian Rugs and Carpets from Mongolia
View a Rare Collection of Mongolian Rugs and Carpets
Mongolian Rugs have along history going back almost to the Mongol period in China. Few if any early antique carpets of this kind are actually are preserved, but they are represented in illuminated Chinese manuscripts, where they appear in a form similar to examples still produced today. Mongolian carpets have a transparent composition utilizing see-through motifs against a uniform ground, in keeping with antique Chinese rug design. The motifs themselves are generally Chinese - meanders, knot-work, and fretted medallions - with a taste for open spaces. Colors are soft and earthy with emphasis on subtle mixing of tones or variegation.
Unlike countries that developed their own motifs and style, Mongolian carpets are the product of outside influences particularly from China. Scholars believe the majority of Mongolian rugs were created by foreign minorities living in the area. On the Asian Steppe, highly decorative felt rugs and panels with undulating motifs were created, but these bear little similarity to the Chinese-influenced Mongolian rugs seen on the market today. Because the domestic carpet weaving industry is small compared to high-profile areas, antique Mongolian carpets are rare commodities.
Stylistically, antique Mongolian rugs feature a variety of Chinese patterns and Buddhist symbols that are drawn in a simplified manner. The color schemes are similarly restrained. Soft neutrals, somber earth tones, stately jewel tones and coral pink accents are found in Mongolian rugs. Weavers in Mongolia used more restricted color schemes than Chinese weavers, but they also used colors differently to produce decorative variegation and textural patterns. Many of these graphic rugs feature subtle variations on traditional eastern motifs. In general, Mongolian carpets depict Chinese-influenced patterns, such as fretwork spandrels, endless knots, shou symbols, tigers and Buddhist motifs. They also have a preference for eastern design principles that use negative space effectively and incorporate a less-is-more style that works well in modern interiors. | {
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Music at 30,000 feet
As we near the end of production on The Nut Job 2, there are a lot of things to finish up. We’re currently doing the final round of voice recording with our cast. The voice recording dates overlapped with the recording of our score in Prague, so in stroke of high-tech multitasking, we found ourselves listening to the score recording session live via streaming video over the airplane wifi while flying to LA. We couldn’t be more excited about the amazing score written by Heitor Pereira, it’s sounding fantastic. | {
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What end of life care involves
End of life care is support for people who are in the last months or years of their life.
End of life care should help you to live as well as possible until you die and to die with dignity. The people providing your care should ask you about your wishes and preferences, and take these into account as they work with you to plan your care. They should also support your family, carers or other people who are important to you.
Who provides end of life care?
Different health and social care professionals may be involved in your end of life care, depending on your needs. For example, hospital doctors and nurses, your GP, community nurses, hospice staff and counsellors may all be involved, as well as social care staff, chaplains (of all faiths or none), physiotherapists, occupational therapists or complementary therapists.
If you are being cared for at home or in a care home, your GP has overall responsibility for your care. Community nurses usually visit you at home, and family and friends may be closely involved in caring for you too.
What is palliative care?
End of life care includes palliative care. If you have an illness that can't be cured, palliative care makes you as comfortable as possible, by managing your pain and other distressing symptoms. It also involves psychological, social and spiritual support for you and your family or carers. This is called a holistic approach, because it deals with you as a "whole" person, not just your illness or symptoms.
Palliative care isn't just for the end of life – you may receive palliative care earlier in your illness, while you are still receiving other therapies to treat your condition.
Who provides palliative care?
Many healthcare professionals provide palliative care as part of their jobs. An example is the care you get from your GP or community nurses.
Some people need additional specialist palliative care. This may be provided by consultants trained in palliative medicine, specialist palliative care nurses, or specialist occupational therapists or physiotherapists.
Palliative care teams are made up of different healthcare professionals and can co-ordinate the care of people with an incurable illness. As specialists, they also advise other professionals on palliative care.
When does end of life care begin?
End of life care should begin when you need it and may last a few days, or for months or years.
People in lots of different situations can benefit from end of life care. Some of them may be expected to die within the next few hours or days. Others receive end of life care over many months.
People are considered to be approaching the end of life when they are likely to die within the next 12 months, although this isn't always possible to predict. This includes people whose death is imminent, as well as people who:
have an advanced incurable illness, such as cancer, dementia or motor neurone disease
are generally frail and have co-existing conditions that mean they are expected to die within 12 months
have existing conditions if they are at risk of dying from a sudden crisis in their condition
have a life-threatening acute condition caused by a sudden catastrophic event, such as an accident or stroke
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has published guidance on the care of dying adults in the last days of life. This guidance covers how to manage common symptoms, as well as dignity and respect for the dying person, their relatives and carers.
How do I find out about end of life care services in my area?
If you are approaching the end of life, or caring for someone who is, and you want to find out about the care and support available, your first step is to speak to your GP or to call the number your healthcare professionals have given you.
Part of their job is to help you understand which services are available locally. You can ask about all sorts of help – for instance, there may be particular night-time services they can tell you about. You can also search for specific types of care services near you.
Find Me Help has a directory of services for people in the last years of life, and their families, friends and carers, based on where you live.
You can search for a wide range of practical, financial and caring services – for example, getting help around the house, taking control of your finances or speaking to a counsellor.
Carers can search for different kinds of support, including medical help, respite cover, carers' support groups and bereavement services.
Planning ahead
In this end of life care guide, "end of life care" also covers legal issues to help you plan ahead for your future care. These include creating a lasting power of attorney so the person or people of your choice can make decisions about your care if you are no longer able to do so yourself. | {
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I am muthar mydeen from india.Now came to qatar work visa,having 2 year experience in electrical maintenance & mep design engg same company i would like work in your company i am waiting for your good responce | {
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Know Him
Proverbs 2 —
Proverbs 2:7011: He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest.He is a shield to those who walk with integrity.8 He guards the paths of the justand protects those who are faithful to him.
9 Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair,and you will find the right way to go.10 For wisdom will enter your heart,and knowledge will fill you with joy.11 Wise choices will watch over you.Understanding will keep you safe.
One of the first things we must learn about living in this world is there are 2 different types of wisdom, knowledge and understanding…. the worlds view that is always changing by culture! I am not a young man and the culture today is SOOOOO different than the culture I grew up in. I’ve always tried to have a grasp of the changing culture, in fact I lived most of my life thinking that is what made me relevant, in the know, cool in this world…. accepted by the people around me. And then there is God’s wisdom, knowledge and understanding. The Word says it comes out of the mouth of God himself. His ways and NEVER EVER Changing, the remain the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.
I want you to get this…..it does not mean we have to live a life of rules and regulations, trying to live the same as they did in Biblical times!!! But it does mean that we live according to God’s plan, His wisdom when it comes to life issues, when it come to integrity, holiness, purity, marriage, money, job, school, and well the list never ends. The Proverb says that “He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him” and in verse 11 “Wise choices will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe”
Bottom line DO NOT follow the ways of this world, the culture, do not take ANY pleasures in doing wrong…. God offers a fantastic life to those who are obedient. It’s not an easy road by any means, but it’s going to be worth it.
Over the years I have held the hands of many people as they have passed away and NOT once did I EVER hear “I wished I would have partied more, I wished I would have worked more, I wish I would have enjoyed more partners in my sex life…..” I ALWAYS heard how they wished they would have LOVED more, spent more time with family, been a better person, less angry, less stressed etc……” This proverb ends with a very good word.
20 Follow the steps of good men instead,and stay on the paths of the righteous.21 For only the godly will live in the land,and those with integrity will remain in it. | {
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books.google.com - Have you ever wondered whether a movie you are watching was filmed in San Francisco or the Bay Area? More than 600 movies, from blockbuster features to lesser-known indies, have been entirely or partially set in the region since 1927, when talkies made their debut. This essential publication will satisfy...https://books.google.com/books/about/Reel_San_Francisco_Stories_An_Annotated.html?id=t-bwBQAAQBAJ&utm_source=gb-gplus-shareReel San Francisco Stories: An Annotated Filmography of the Bay Area | {
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Understanding Unyama – A Closer Look
My son has been diagnosed on the autism spectrum, has severe inattentive type ADHD, sensory integration issues, and a stutter. When he was born, he cried constantly. By the time he was 2, he had not spoken his first word. And when he was in third grade, his school told me they were concerned whether they could accommodate him within the next school year’s program. I began asking questions when he was 15 months old. By 30 months, he was in three types of therapies six days a week. And now, as a rising eighth grader, he’s navigating middle school in the finest learning-differenced school in America.
My son was reading at the high school level by kindergarten. He’s projected to require college level math by ninth grade. And his IQ is three points below “genius”. He does have many challenges, but with those challenges have come inherent and unheard of strengths. I absolutely know how fortunate my family is to have had those who have advocated for my son, and to have had access to the resources to intervene. It’s pretty remarkable to think what the consequences would have been, had we not intervened.
Every time I see a child with special needs in an emerging country, I see the consequences of a society that cannot intervene.
Recently, I wrote about Unyama, a village in northern Uganda filled with a shocking array of physical and mental handicaps. I’m excited to begin working in these unreached communities and I feel strongly that it’s important for people to understand why I’m excited.
Just this summer, I learned that most of these children are not interacted with or treated the way typical children are. Each time I spoke with a child, our partners told me the child could not understand me or wouldn’t interact with me. It was clear they saw absolutely no reason to connect with these children. However, I was able to show a caretaker that with some effort, non-responsive children like Mercy really can, and will, respond to love and attention.
I also learned that for most of these children, the day they received their bed was the first and only time in their life they would be taken outside of their mud hut. When I asked whether they even take the children outside into the sunlight, I was resolutely asked “why would we?” But on that day they received their bed, they were necessarily bathed and clothed — efforts and resources never afforded to these children.
For a child like Blessing, who was paralyzed as an infant by malaria, and whose life is spent entirely laying down, she is no longer relegated to a life on the dirt. And I assure you, it’s nothing short of miraculous to have the privilege and opportunity to lay a paralyzed child down on her own bed for the first time.
But the story of the bed goes so much deeper than providing comfort to a disabled child. Giving these forgotten children a bed shows their communities they have value. In fact, when a team of Americans comes such a long distance to spend time with these children, a complete shift in world-view happens among those who care for them. Once, these children were perceived as throw-aways, incapable of contributing to their family or community. Now, they are seen as beautiful and valuable creations of God, worthy of love and attention.
Without that love and attention, all children fail to thrive, especially those who need an extra nudge developmentally.
Showing communities the worth of these children is changing the way they are being cared for. Caretakers are finding community among other parents who also struggle with a disabled child. Children with unique needs are seeing there are others just like them, and are taking comfort in that. And because of a desire to provide a bed for their child, caretakers are openly registering their special needs kids with our in-country partners, who are then providing education and health care services to this forgotten group of children.
So I’m excited to get started with this ministry opportunity to shed light on the least and last, the most forgotten of the most vulnerable children. For the communities of these special needs children, this will change everything.
Just like my son, these children need advocacy, and I need your help to bring that to them.
Next February, we will be providing beds to 800 special needs kids in northern Uganda. My vision is to bring together parents of uniquely challenged children, early intervention specialists, passionate advocates, and those called to the mission field to distribute the beds and to interact with these children in intentional ways that fit their unique needs and abilities. In doing so, I anticipate a revolutionary change will come to those communities, as these forsaken children are brought to light.
Can you provide a bed that will evoke change in a disabled child’s life? We need 800 beds at $50 each. Give, knowing 100% of your gift will be delivered directly to these specific children in February. Simply note “special needs” when you give. | {
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Example Feeds
Using a custom RSS solution called rssfolder, we are able to generate your feeds for inclusion in iTunes and other podcast directories. We developed this custom solution for Talk Radio Network and decided to improve on it for use with all podcast customers. All of your show information is pulled from the metadata tags within your audio file. Show descriptions can be placed in the comment tag area and will automatically appear in your custom feed. The feed automatically redirects to our ad insertion solution servers and our MRI data collection agency, Podtrac. Here are a few of the popular shows we provide services for:
Couple this with our Podcast manager software for listen stats and you have a total solution for your podcasting needs. File uploads are easily accomplished through your custom FTP folder right from your desktop. We provide you a sub-audible tone to place into your shows that automatically launch commercial spots by pausing the podcast and then restarting where it left off. No more unprofessional over lays that take away from your important content. | {
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Brian and Cristina are a GREAT couple, and a perfect example of multi-national marriage, exemplary of Dream Connections. They are truly one of "us"; a couple created by Dream Connections, and they are FAMILY.... | {
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Putting an end to the series of hostage crises
Yesterday, Democratic and Republican leaders in the Senate nearly completed work on a compromise that would end the shutdown and raise the debt ceiling until early 2014. This morning, House Republicans destroyed that compromise, demanding instead that Democrats meet some relatively minor ransom demands in order to resolve the crises.
Democrats were amenable to the Senate Republican compromise, but quickly rejected the House Republican alternative. This, in turn, apparently confused quite a few Beltway political reporters. Why, they said, are minor concessions acceptable in one case but not in the other?
Let’s set the record straight, because to understand this is to understand the nature of the larger dispute.
Democrats have said from the beginning that funding the operations of the government and extending the Treasury’s borrowing authority are basic American governance – routine tasks Congress must complete, not opportunities for hostage crises. Far-right lawmakers cannot expect rewards or policy concessions in exchange for doing their duty.
Senate Republicans accepted this and worked towards a deal in which there would be no ransom – the parties budged a little on scheduled deadlines, then made mutual concessions so both sides got a little of what they wanted. House Republicans did the opposite – they expect Democrats to give them something in exchange for nothing.
For Beltway reporters, the intended ransom – a delay in the medical-device tax – is no big deal. This misses the point, badly.
Republicans believe it’s absolutely imperative that they maintain the ability to threaten the nation with deliberate harm, over and over again, in order to create “leverage” to achieve policy goals they can’t get through legitimate means. And Democrats believe it’s absolutely imperative that they the end this cycle of periodic hostage crises that undermine the nation’s wellbeing.
This fight, in other words, is about establishing a precedent. Republicans want a treat so that they can demand another concession the next time it’s time to raise the debt limit, and another the time after that, and so on. If there is no treat, the GOP says, then Republicans will push the nation into default.
Democrats want this madness to end – Congress should simply do its job, without threats of political violence. The bipartisan Senate deal respected this basic principle, while the House Republican alternative deliberately rejects this principle.
The Senate GOP’s demands are legitimate, because they are being made in negotiations which are not occurring in a context where Republicans are presuming the threat of disaster gives them unilateral leverage. The Senate talks accept as a given that default won’t happen and are centered on horse-trading within that context. The House GOP’s demands are extortionate, because they continue to be premised on the idea – again, one rooted in genuine views House Republicans hold about acceptable governing norms – that Dems should fork over unilateral concessions on Obamacare, because if they don’t, the consequence will be economic disaster.
You don’t need to side with one or the other camp in order to acknowledge the basic contours of this argument, or of this overall situation.
Both sides want to establish a precedent. Republicans want to normalize holding the debt ceiling hostage and threatening Americans with deliberate harm in exchange for whatever policy concessions the GOP is seeking at that moment. Democrats want to prevent lawmakers from imposing these threats on the country again.
In this model, it’s not about whether Democrats are wedded to the medical-device tax; it’s about ensuring that Congress meets its obligations without any ransom whatsoever. That’s what some of the Beltway media struggles with, but it’s also what this entire week’s political disputes are about. | {
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In the late 1990s, Eric Rudolph — raised Catholic and affiliated for a time with a Christian Identity sect — bombed abortion clinics and a gay bar, insisting they were venues of immorality and evil. Last July, an Orthodox Jewish Israeli attacked the marchers in the Jerusalem LGBT pride parade, stabbing six of them, and one of them, a teenager, died of her wounds; justifying his attacks by appealing to Talmudic punishments for homosexuality, he had just been released from a 10-year prison term for doing the same in 2005. Yesterday, a Christian pastor from Arizona, Steven Anderson, praised the slaughter of 49 people in an Orlando LGBT club on the ground that “homosexuals are a bunch of disgusting perverts” and are “pedophiles.”
Similarly, U.S. Muslims are more likely to support same-sex marriage (42 percent support it) than are U.S. evangelicals (28 percent), historically black Protestants (40 percent), Mormons (26 percent) and Jehovah’s Witnesses (14 percent). Indeed, U.S. Muslims are roughly just as likely to support same-sex marriage as Christians generally (44 percent).
None of this is to deny in the slightest that deeply anti-LGBT attitudes are pervasive in parts of the Muslim world: In most countries (though not all) acceptance is in the single digits. But that’s also true of equally poor parts of the Christian world, where only tiny parts of the population of largely Christian countries such as Ghana, Uganda, and Kenya believe society should accept homosexuality. In other countries that are not predominantly Muslim — China, Russia, Nigeria, El Salvador, Israel — pluralities similarly oppose the societal acceptance of homosexuality.
It’s also true that parts of Islamic doctrine contain all sorts of horrible views on LGBTs, women, and other issues. But exactly the same is true of both the Christian Bible and Jewish Talmud. When it comes to Jews and Christians, people instinctively understand how bigoted and deceitful it is to cherry-pick particularly offensive excerpts from their holy books and use them to demonize all contemporary Christians and Jews.
Indeed, a standard tactic of neo-Nazis and other various anti-Semites is to cite ugly excerpts from the Talmud — including ones purportedly endorsing Jews holding non-Jews as slaves or lying to and stealing from non-Jews — as evidence of the dishonesty and untrustworthiness of Jews generally. We all understand that this tactic is so vile, unscholarly, and anti-intellectual precisely because modern adherents to those religions interpret and apply (or ignore) those provisions in all sorts of ways.
The opportunity to exploit LGBT suffering to fuel the standard anti-Muslim agenda was far too attractive to resist, no matter how many facts negate it. Try to tell LGBT citizens who grew up in North America, or South America, or Europe, that anti-gay hatred is an exclusive attribute of Islam and the scorn you’ll provoke — grounded in actual personal experience rather than hateful ideology — will be intense.
Depicting anti-LGBT hatred as the exclusive (or even predominant) province of Islam is not only defamatory toward Muslims but does a massive disservice to the millions of LGBTs who have been — and continue to be — seriously oppressed, targeted, and attacked by people who have nothing to do with Islam. The struggle of LGBTs around the world is difficult enough without having them cynically used as some sort of prop to bash a group that itself is already being bashed from multiple directions. | {
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Besides, the box comes with Ravage.
Eric: You know, if one of them had been cutting off the other's head with an axe? That'd have been fine.
EDIT: the following post proceeds from certain errors which have been called to our attention. By stated policy, we don't take down posts we screwed up on, but please see this post for additional information. We apologize for the error.
So, somehow I missed the drama of the week, and that has me sad. I do love the drama of the week. In my defense, I wasn't feeling that well, but still. It's the drama of the week.
If like me, you missed it, have a look at Gav Bleuel's clarification on Keenspot's newsbox policy published earlier today. This clarification came after the weekend, when a Keenspot newsbox advertising Friendly Hostility depicted two men kissing. Apparently, Keenspot failed to send the requisite "promo" newsbox out to the Keenspotters and give them their chance to object and get an appropriate substitution out, so at least one Keenspotter took the newsbox off his front page.
Please note, the newsbox did not depict overt sexuality, or the two men in stereotypical gay bondage outfits or anything. They were just two men kissing. Part of how I know this, by the way, is the fact that I don't remember this newsbox at all. I tend to remember salacious or outrageous newsboxes for quite a while. So, clearly this one just kind of passed through my head. From all descriptions, though, it was just a moment of tenderness between two people. So, the Keenspotter in question objected because it was Gay Positive.
Let me repeat that, with a little extra emphasis.
The Keenspotter in question objected because it was Gay Positive.
This was a situation where someone refused to run an ad for a strip because they felt, in effect, that any positive depiction of homosexuals or homosexuality was objectionable. Any. Which means they might next object, say, to a depiction of Felicity Flint in a newsbox, because she's an open homosexual. Or Girly's next newsbox, because Josh Lesnick has depicted gay positive relationships before. You think that's not likely? I think once someone starts down this path, every successive step becomes easier.
The homosexual relationships in Friendly Hostility are core to the strip. It is disingenuous to expect a lack of gay positive imagery in its advertising. And when you sign on with Keenspot, part of the deal is you're going to advertise the other strips in the lineup. You don't get to decide "this strip sucks, and I hate it, so I'm going to drop the newsbox when it comes up in rotation." You advertise the strip. If there had been violence, or overt sexuality (and a kiss is not overt sexuality by any stretch of the imagination), that would be grounds to object. But to object to it because it is gay positive when the strip is itself gay positive is akin to objecting to a Clan of the Cats newsbox that features Chelsea with fangs because it's about the Occult and you don't agree with Occult depictions in the media. That's not how it works -- if you don't want to support a collective, don't join it. If you do, accept that you're not going to like all the strips advertising on your front page.
I've heard a couple of theories as to which Keenspotter rejected the strip. They've generally theorized it's one of the more right wing or conservative 'Spotters. I actually doubt that's the case -- at least, I doubt either of the two people I've heard mentioned would object in this way. But you know what might be significantly worse than a homophobe dropping the newsbox because "boys kissing == teh icky?" The idea that someone who thinks they aren't biased at all objected because "gosh, we don't want no trouble around here, skeeter. Just move along."
I hate that attitude. I despise that attitude. With a homophobe, you know right up front what you're dealing with. You don't like what they represent, they don't like what you represent. Everyones' cards are on the table. But this chickenshit attitude that you just don't want "the controversy" on your page just earns my disdain. Especially when you can be certain that expressions of violence or a largely naked girl or any given girl and guy kissing would have passed inspection. And the fact that we don't know, officially, who the Keenspotter is means that right wing or conservative Keenspotters who didn't object to the newsbox, even if they didn't agree with it, are getting the weather eye from the public. And that just sucks.
Bleuel's statement didn't thrill me, either. If they were getting a high volume of complaints, I can understand making a statement. I can understand it saying "we felt, based on the terms of service outlined in the contract we have with our artists, that we had to allow the removal to stand, without either condoning or condemning that action. Our artists have the freedom to express their views." But the statement didn't say that. It said, in effect, that they had to abide by the decision, but gosh they didn't agree with it and they think it sucks too, and homophobia is wrong, m'kay?
You don't get to have that opinion when you're a publisher. You don't get to put your support implicitly behind one of your artists and leave the other one out in the cold. You don't get to keep your Liberal cred in an official press release. You either need to explain why you did what you did while explicitly expressing no opinion, pro or anti... or you shouldn't put out the release in the first place. (And to be honest, without that release, this wouldn't be a story in the first place. Almost no one I knew had even heard of it before Bleuel posted and Comixpedia picked up on it.)
And that brings me to the other aspect of the press release/post I didn't like. We know this was about Friendly Hostility, but they elected to protect the name of the person who objected. I think that's unfair to Friendly Hostility, because it puts them out on a limb... and I think that's unfair to us. I deserve to know who it was who pulled that newsbox. If publicity surrounding the "controversial" Gay Positive newsbox can accrue to Fuhr, then equal publicity surrounding the (legitimately) controversial decision to pull the newsbox rather than let it run should accrue to that Keenspotter. It's not fair that it cling to the obvious targets instead, and it's not fair that Fuhr has to bear any negative brunt on her own.
And besides. I want to know who did it, because you know... I'm a Liberal too. I'm Gay-friendly in general. And I raise Gay-positive topics and might snark Gay Positive strips sometime over here on Websnark. And I want to be sensitive to this Keenspotter's desire to not be associated with such things.
Comment from: miyaa posted at March 11, 2005 3:48 AM
Comment from: Forsaken_One posted at March 11, 2005 4:14 AM
Hey, I just had to register to comment on this. That and because I was bored. :)
What gets me about that press release wasn't the whole "I'm liberal too guys" comments that seemed superfluous, it was his comment about respecting the "...First Amendment rights of Keenspotters to have control over the content that appears on their pages..."
This has nothing to do with the First Amendment! Keenspot is not the government of the United States of America. It has every right to drop or otherwise penalize this user if it feels the contract was breeched when they removed the newsbox.
Now if they want to say they made a mistake and that makes the website in question's actions okay within the contract, well, that's fine. But for God's sake stop mentioning the Fist Amendment like it was some overarching law that lets anyone say and do what they want without reprisal. Maybe even read the bloody constitution.
Comment from: Harle posted at March 11, 2005 5:33 AM
I remember seeing that newsbox. Mainly because I could identify the kissing pair as a couple of the characters who had been incidental in Boy Meets Boy (at least when I last read the strip which was, admittedly, a long time ago).
And if I hadn't been reading over my sister's shoulder at the time, I'd have clicked it, 'cause cute guys kissing will always get me to take a second look. ;)
As a side note, I dislike the phrase "Gay Positive." Perhaps it's just me, but I can totally hear some extreme right-winger using "Gay Positive" to refer to homosexuality as a disease. You know, like "HIV positive?" Not what is meant here though, I know. :)
(Gotta love language - everything sounds wrong to /someone/.)
Comment from: Rand posted at March 11, 2005 6:19 AM
Personally, I can't really fault Keenspot for their message. After all, they HAD an agreement with their comics. 1: People get to see the newsbox thingies in advance 2: There'd be alternatives if someone objected.
Keenspot didn't provide these. So yes, in my oppinion the person in question HAD the right to take down the newsbox. Nothing to do with First Amendement, everything to do with the agreements keenspot made with the comics that they'd never force them to show an ad they didn't want. It'd have been fun to see Keenspot making a stand perhaps, but they'd be breaking their word.
I don't really mind that they add their own oppinion to it. Especially since some people will mmediately assume Keenspot is anti-gay if they allow the newsbox-removal without explicitely SAYING they're not anti-gay.
Of course, just because he HAS the RIGHT doesn't mean we have to LIKE what he does. Or indeed, read /snark his or her comic.
Comment from: Wednesday posted at March 11, 2005 6:30 AM
Half-dyke occasional guest snarker with keys? So totally falling into line with the sensitivity call. So. Totally.
Comment from: arscott posted at March 11, 2005 9:08 AM
which is ironic given that she primarily does Prettyboy and Furry comics.
Comment from: Brendan posted at March 11, 2005 9:09 AM
I've never actually seen violence in these newsboxes, but hey...
This clause has been used before. I remember seeing an old Striptease add with a series of six kisses ("fall in love all over again") when it ran on most sites. However, when it ran on some of the more family friendly strips (GPF is the only one that comes to mind immediately, but there were others), a new version was run with three of the kisses removed: two between Rachel and Alli and one especially passionate kiss between Max and Rachel. Also, a "You Damn Kid" ad ran with the words "boobs" and "wangs" blacked out.
Come to think of it, there was an old "It's Walky" newsbox with Daisy (and several men) lusting after Billie, but I think that got a full pass...
Comment from: The Borghal Rantipole posted at March 11, 2005 9:19 AM
The comic's quite funny. I've read it a few times and it's not explicit, so I have no problem with it, but it does contain gay content.
I'm really not sure what to make of this.
Comment from: Freak posted at March 11, 2005 9:43 AM
I took that comment to mean that:
1) She didn't mind linking to FH. (She said she'd put up a link to FH under the newsbox for a week because she'd pulled that newsbox; it's still there.)
2) She did mind having that particular image on her website.
Comment from: Robin Z posted at March 11, 2005 9:57 AM
Have you ever read A Gentlemen's Agreement? Or watched the movie?
That sort of attitude (the "don't cause a fuss" one) has been around for a long time. It still stinks.
Comment from: hess42 posted at March 11, 2005 10:39 AM
And I want to be sensitive to this Keenspotter's desire to not be associated with such things.
You know, by not mentioning that strip on Websnark.
Ever.
Just call me Mister Sensitive.
I'm not sure what to think of this last bit. On the one hand, my first reaction was "Hell yeah, Eric, you show 'em!" Then I started thinking about it and I wonder if someone's views on sexuality, or politics, or religion, or, well, anything else ought necessarily to be the deciding factor on whether something gets a mention here.
Let me be crystal clear on two points. First, I am in complete agreement with your feelings on the "Just don't make waves" attitude. It pisses me off as well. And second, man, this is absolutely 100% your call, because it's your site. You do the work, you pick the content. That's sort of the point, right? I just wonder if the reaction would have been the same if it had, at the time the post went up, been clear who the objector was and it turned out to be a comic that you liked and had been singing the praises of for some time. I know that I would find it a tough decision in that case, and not at all a tough decision in the event that I wasn't familiar with the strip or the artist already.
Yeah, I really have no idea. I'm not expressing my reservations too clearly - something which I'll write off to having 4 wisdom teeth pulled yesterday and still languishing in the daze of Percocet.
Comment from: PatMan posted at March 11, 2005 11:59 AM
Wow. I remember that ad. I said, "nice kiss, guys. Next time try making contact." It's nice to know that no matter how much progress we make, freaks will still try give us their "gays are icky" bullshit. I like how the keenspotter pulled the ad simply because it starred gay characters. Oh sweet fuck no! Next thing you know we're gonna be marrying! God, I wanna hurt someone now.
And thank you, Keenspot. I was almost considering starting my comic on your service, but now I'll just wait for Joey to start his. Don't want to offend anybody by giving them my queer money, Kna'mean? But I might start a furry porn comic for you. Because, you know, that's acceptable.
Comment from: PatMan posted at March 11, 2005 12:00 PM
Wow. I remember that ad. I said, "nice kiss, guys. Next time try making contact." It's nice to know that no matter how much progress we make, freaks will still try give us their "gays are icky" bullshit. I like how the keenspotter pulled the ad simply because it starred gay characters. Oh sweet fuck no! Next thing you know we're gonna be marrying! God, I wanna hurt someone now.
And thank you, Keenspot. I was almost considering starting my comic on your service, but now I'll just wait for Joey to start his. Don't want to offend anybody by giving them my queer money, Kna'mean? But I might start a furry porn comic for you. Because, you know, that's acceptable.
I'm not sure what to think of this last bit. On the one hand, my first reaction was "Hell yeah, Eric, you show 'em!" Then I started thinking about it and I wonder if someone's views on sexuality, or politics, or religion, or, well, anything else ought necessarily to be the deciding factor on whether something gets a mention here.
That's actually not the point.
There are several strips I like where I don't necessarily agree with the political or philosophical stance of the writer. That's life in a non-totalitarianism.
To pull what is clearly an innocuous newsbox for "content" issues, on the other hand, when such a pull becomes an implicit statement about the basis for one of the other strips in a collective, is the beginnings of isolation-by-philosophy-for-philosophy. Its next stage is for someone to suggest "tiers" or "alliances" or checkboxes they can click for which ads they want to take.
I have no problem with someone refusing to run a newsbox with swear words or without a bikini model or without an axe protruding from a woman's head. When the "objectionable content" in a newsbox is because an idea is objectionable and must be screened off? You lose me. You lose me hard.
So, if someone espouses this kind of isolationism because they can't abide the core idea of a strip, I'm more than happy to oblige them by not mentioning them. I won't say bad things about their strip. I just won't say anything about their strip.
On the plus side for them, they very likely won't care.
Comment from: PatMan posted at March 11, 2005 12:01 PM
Dang internet connection made me double post! I knew that would happen!
Comment from: Mystic Blue posted at March 11, 2005 12:07 PM
I regularly read the Alien Dice strip, so I saw when the newsbox was first taken down.
The comment that I remember (and I'll admit, I'm paraphrasing because it's been changed since I first saw it) at the top of the page indicated the artist didn't want to appeal to "that kind of crowd" on her Web page. She also said that if people couldn't understand why she didn't want to have it on her page, that was awfully intolerant of them.
Is it possible to sue a website for libel? Because the claim that it was removed for being "gay positive" is unfair and unsubstantiated, and it was presented as a definitive statement of truth in this article (note the italics!).
Homosexuality is controversial; I should know, I'm someone who's accepting about it and have homosexual characters in my comic and had a very conservative friend in college. The goal of not having homosexuality depicted on a form of media is more likely to do with attempting to avoid controversy than the author having actual prejudice. You'll note there aren't many kid shows with gay couples; that doesn't mean the creators are bigots.
I grant that if someone was hoping to AVOID controversy, this was definitely the wrong approach. However, while I may not agree with the censorship or removal of the newsbox, keeping something off of a website to avoid controversy is a webmaster's right. Telling someone they HAVE to put something on their website that could potentially result in turmoil from radical hatemongers isn't exactly fair. Forcing someone to stand up for something they don't want to stand up for only harbors further resentment.
All that hoo-for-rah aside, the main point I wanted to make was that the statment "The Keenspotter in question objected because it was Gay Positive" is unfair. It can suggest that the spotter wouldn't object to an anti-gay propoganda newsbox, and that the spotter is a bigot. Whether or not one agrees that the spotter was simply hoping to avoid controversy (and failing miserably at this point), that statement without further information wasn't fair, and is structured to cause further controversy and anger.
I just wonder if the reaction would have been the same if it had, at the time the post went up, been clear who the objector was and it turned out to be a comic that you liked and had been singing the praises of for some time.
One of the theories I'd had suggested to me multiple times was for a strip I've snarked before and quite clearly like a lot. When I wrote the above, I had to think "well, am I willing to do that with this strip I love?"
I found it was easy to say yes, because it'd be hard to love a strip that would put a fellow Keenspotter into Coventry quite the same way.
(I also had a hard time believing it was this person, but I digress.)
Comment from: PatMan posted at March 11, 2005 12:31 PM
DanShive, you fail to notice that the artist signed a contract with the company that does just what you said is wrong. Yes, it would be wrong for Keenspot to force an ad on someone if it wasn't part of the terms of use. Also, avoiding controversy is bigotory. Saying "I don't want to support you because it might mean I'll have to put up with the same crap you put up with every day of your life" is a stupid and selfish position. And thousands of dead gay children will agree with me.
When I wrote the above, I had to think "well, am I willing to do that with this strip I love?"
I found it was easy to say yes, because it'd be hard to love a strip that would put a fellow Keenspotter into Coventry quite the same way.
Eric, in that case your point is well-taken. Asking that question before making your post is something that a lot of people wouldn't have done. The fact that you did suggests that you're taking a consistent position here. I'll step off my devil's advocate quasi-soapbox now. ;)
Comment from: Freak posted at March 11, 2005 12:44 PM
PatMan, you fail to notice that the artist signed a contract which said she would receive 2 days notice on any newsbox; Keenspot broke the contract first.
And I think Eric put quite a few words in Syke's mouth. (For one, she was part of the EGS guest week, and drew one of the non-hetero characters.)
(And largely OT, but Girly left Keenspot some time ago.)
Comment from: FlyingFish posted at March 11, 2005 12:56 PM
I have no problem with someone refusing to run a newsbox with swear words or without a bikini model or without an axe protruding from a woman's head. When the "objectionable content" in a newsbox is because an IDEA is objectionable and must be screened off? You lose me. You lose me HARD.
Why would you refuse to run a newsbox with swearing? Because of the IDEA that certain words are wrong and should not be shown. Why would you refuse to run a newsbox with a bikini model? Because of the IDEA that near-nudity/sexual content is wrong and should not be shown.
Or, at least, controversial enough that some people will raise a stink. Especially those in that comic's particular audience, and the audience is ultimately all that's important for a comic artist. Either way, these are ideas that not everyone holds, but which Keenspot has chosen to respect if one of their comic artists do. What makes this any different?
Comment from: Scott Kurtz posted at March 11, 2005 1:04 PM
I think this is really unfair to the keenspotter who objected to the newsbox for a couple of reasons.
1)Nobody would have known about this unless Sarah, Tiffany or Gav mentioned it publically.
2)Gav's clarification of keenspot's policies was very unprofessional and unfair. It basically championed Sarah and threw Tiff under the bus. And that's bullshit. We're talking about a newsbox.
3)The Newsbox is not a new source of controversy and it's been improperly used in the past. Crosby used it once to push his anti-bush political stance. That newsbox is an imperfect tool of promotion and doesn't take into consideration the demographics of the strip it's being advertised on.
Comment from: Tangent posted at March 11, 2005 1:15 PM
Um... PatMan? Dan Shive *is* a Keenspotter. His comic, El Goonish Shive, was accepted a couple months or so ago (after several of us Boardies started pestering Gav to accept EGS *grin*). As such, he *would know* about the contractual details of running a Newsbox.
Well, two solutions. First being a three-tiered rating system... and the second being a bitchslap to this whole "I won't run this because it might be objectionable"... if you don't like the content of other Keenspot comics and thus do not want to run the newsbox of said comics... then maybe you shouldn't be part of Keenspot.
Oh, and Scott? It's *not* unfair to the objecter of the newsbox. If that person had just quietly removed the Newsbox and posted, oh, a white lie claiming that the newsbox code had accidently been deleted from the HTML coding... while privately e-mail Gav and complain about not having seen the Newsbox pic in advance... then none of this would have arisen. This person has made their bed. They can lie in it.
Robert A. Howard, tangenting across the Internet
Comment from: Phalanx posted at March 11, 2005 1:28 PM
You know, just because I'm anal about this:
PatMan:"And thank you, Keenspot. I was almost considering starting my comic on your service, but now I'll just wait for Joey to start his. Don't want to offend anybody by giving them my queer money, Kna'mean? But I might start a furry porn comic for you. Because, you know, that's acceptable."
a) KeenSPACE is NOT KeenSPOT. The constant confusion of the two really annoys me, I wish they would hurry up and do a rename already.
[i]Um... PatMan? Dan Shive *is* a Keenspotter. His comic, El Goonish Shive, was accepted a couple months or so ago (after several of us Boardies started pestering Gav to accept EGS *grin*). As such, he *would know* about the contractual details of running a Newsbox.[/i]
This is mostly true, though I've been with them for over a year now (was accepted August of 2003 and was all set up and on Keenspot in September of 2003).
Sandra failed to post the newsbox two days in advance, Keenspot ran it, objection was called afterward. Keenspot broke contract by running a potentially controversial newsbox without giving people a chance to request (and set up) a G newsbox. The spotter who removed the box did not break contrac, regardless of any ill-feelings brought on by removing the newsbox and posting about it.
I don't agree with what the spotter did, but I agree with their right to do it. Freedom goes both ways, even if one way annoys the heck out of us. As far as arguing the point is concerned and why it's good to be tolerant to a reasonable degree is actually illustrated well by a comic from Ozy and Millie: http://www.ozyandmillie.net/2003/om20031029.html
Comment from: RKMilholland posted at March 11, 2005 1:40 PM
... can't we all just eat pie?
Comment from: Mitch Clem posted at March 11, 2005 1:45 PM
This empathy for bigotry is disturbing. Some of you are rationalizing protecting a bigot. What if she had refused to put up the newsbox because it had black people in it? You guys are sick.
Sorry for to potentially double-post, but I have to say, PatMan, you're being a bigot about Keenspot :P
Keenspot hosted Boy Meets Boy, is hosting Friendly Hostility, hosts MY comic with 2 main characters who are gay, 1 whose bisexual and another who seems like she could go in any direction.
Keenspot did not consider the newsbox to not be G rated. One author did, and that caused controversy that was compounded by a contract clause that DOESN'T specify homosexuality but DOES state that artists have to be given an opportunity to review newsboxes. There aren't guidelines for the G-rated newsbox beyond "if an author requests one be provided, it will be provided". Again, there are NO specifics against homosexuality or anything else.
A single artist complained, this is the result. Don't take it out on the whole of Keenspot, and ESPECIALLY don't imply it's run by homophobes. The owners and most if not all of the authors are NOT homophobes and I take offense to the forming of a prejudice against all of Keenspot based on the actions of one author and the contractual obligation of Keenspot to comply.
Wow, it's probably a good thing none of WLP's web comics are on Keenspot. Imagine THAT newsbox hoo-ha. }:-{D
Seriously, though, I'm not a regular reader of Alien Dice, but I want to defend the creator here.
One of WLP's print comics, _Nipple Magician_, is by a Japanese artist who also draws stories featuring, among other things, Lolicon (*really* underage sex), amputations, and other less savory kinks. I've made it clear to him that those particular stories are -not- getting printed by WLP, ever, because they don't fit in with my personal vision of WLP's adult comics- namely, fun, mutually enjoyable, no-pain sexuality.
WLP doesn't print strong BDSM stuff, and we'd never print pedo, amputee, etc. stuff, and to be brutally honest I don't -want- aficionados of that stuff coming to WLP's productions. I don't want WLP's comics associated with that stuff, at least no more so as all adult comics are lumped together. If a WLP artist tried to slip some of that stuff by me, I'd return to sender, ASAP.
How does this relate to Alien Dice? Well, I don't know what Tiffany's goals or visions are. However, I do know that in our current society it's impossible to even mention homosexuality without bringing in a distinct sexual tone to the conversation. I wish people didn't care about it so much, but they do- and for every kill-the-fags loonie on one side, there's a bi-desperate on the other side who reads any mention of homosexuality as a come-on on the other side.
If Tiffany's trying to avoid association with sexually explicit comics (like most of WLP's material, for example) or even sexually implicit stuff (like Sore Thumbs, Girly or Wapsi Square), then in my opinion she did the right thing in dumping that newsbox... and Gav & Co. really dropped the ball in not giving her an option on this particular occasion. Two days is nowhere near enough lead-time for ads to be reacted to.
And even if Alien Dice does have sexual themes in it... well, it's her comic. Maybe she's uncomfortable with homosexuality. You can call her intolerant and bigoted for that, but it's no more proper for us to force homosexuality upon her than it would be for her to block homosexuality on a website hosted by Keenspot.
In conclusion, I think all parties in this affair acted unprofessionally. Friendly Hostility's ad should have been kept to the non-G ad list; Gav should have all Keen sites -default- to the G list, and should have a longer lead time for objections; and Tiffany should have either disabled the newsbox in silence or held over a prior newsbox ad rather than call public attention to her dislike of the content.
Instead, all parties have aired dirty laundry in public, to the general detriment of all concerned.
Sorry to potentially double-post AGAIN (if there's an "Edit" option, I'd love to know how to use it), but if the basis WAS there being someone of a particular race, it wouldn't be treated as the same thing. At the very least, I would treat it differently.
Heck, if the political atmosphere in the US was different, I'd be treating this differently. The point is that it's controversial, and that's a reason to avoid including it. As I've said before, do gay couples show up in kids shows? No. Does that mean the creators are anti-gay? Perhaps, but it could also be that they don't want thousands of angry parents down their throats and sponsors threatening to pull their ads. People can make a huge deal out of it and get nasty.
Do I agree with the removal of the box? No. Do I agree that it's not g-rated? No. Is it my place to tell someone what they have to have on their site? No. Is Keenspot contractually obligated to give everyone the chance to request an alternative newsbox? Yes. Is there a possiblity that it could financially hurt Keenspot to ignore that obligation? Yes.
This whole matter was handled poorly by the Keenspot author, and the heads of Keenspot did what they were contractually obligated to.
Comment from: Mitch Clem posted at March 11, 2005 1:59 PM
If Tiffany's trying to avoid association with sexually explicit comics (like most of WLP's material, for example) or even sexually implicit stuff
Whenever I see my parents kiss, I think about them engaging in sexual intercourse. Such is the way with kissing. When I go into my girlfriend's work, I'm not allowed to as much as kiss her on the cheek in front of her coworkers because of the pornographic nature of kissing. God, kissing is just so... DIRTY!
Comment from: Freak posted at March 11, 2005 2:00 PM
From what I understand, Syke initially disabled the newsbox silently. When people started contacting her and/or Keenspot about it, she then stated she had deliberately removed it.
Also, from what I understand, she removed it because she objected to the content of the image itself, not because of the content of the webcomic linked to.
Even if they are asshats, it's their god-given right to be ignorant if they chose to. We can try to convince them otherwise, and maybe even succeed. But it's wrong to force our agenda on theirs, just as it's wrong for them to force their agenda on us.
mmm... pie... but I demand a g-rated pie-link. That one shows a BIT too much cleavage.
*is savagely beaten by thousands of trained angry badgers*
Comment from: Kris@WLP posted at March 11, 2005 2:28 PM
"As I've said before, do gay couples show up in kids shows?"
Well, they yanked that episode of _Postcards from Buster_, didn't they?
"I found it was easy to say yes, because it'd be hard to love a strip that would put a fellow Keenspotter into Coventry quite the same way."
Put into Coventry? That's a phrase not in common use down here...
"When the "objectionable content" in a newsbox is because an idea is objectionable and must be screened off? You lose me. You lose me hard."
Speaking as someone who routinely writes, publishes, and web-hosts objectionable material... there are a lot of ideas I personally find objectionable and which I'd screen out. Homosexuality, obviously, isn't one of 'em. Abusive relationships -are-, which is why I am mildly disturbed by BDSM and outright hostile to things like pedo, slavery, rape, etc. and why I don't publish or promote such things.
(And it explains why I like Something Positive, I suppose; I like the idea of the abused fighting back, according to their ability, against the abuse.)
Likewise, there are a lot of people who find the ideas WLP promotes objectionable. Does that make them anti-porn bigots? No- it simply means they don't like porn. If Randy refused to accept a paid WLP ad (ha! wish I had the cash) for content, should you stop snarking S*P? Hardly. (No, Randy, I don't know that you find WLP's content objectionable, I'm just using you as an example.)
The problem with your stance is that, by saying you don't like comics whose creators object to certain ideas, you're saying that creators must not object to -any- ideas if you're to consider snarking them. There are some ideas that need to be screened (and I admit much of what WLP publishes falls square into that category). It is the right of both creators and readers to avoid content they don't like, which doesn't fit with their creative preferences.
I think you're setting too broad a rule here; perhaps you should refine it a bit?
Comment from: Amadan posted at March 11, 2005 2:32 PM
Eric, I have to disagree with you.
First of all, you keep referring to the newsbox being "pulled." It wasn't pulled; as I understand it, it's still there and viewable on other sites.
Second, it's wrong to demand that anyone who complains to management with a complaint you disapprove of be "outed" so that you (and hundreds of other angry fans) can express your displeasure with him or her by name. Come on.
Finally, while I agree that it's silly to be offended or upset or whatever by a picture of two guys kissing, it seems from reading Keenspot's explanation of their policy that they are being pretty consistent. Anyone who finds an image offensively non-G-rated is entitled to request an alternate image. So if someone [i]did[/i] object to pictures of decapitation, or heterosexual kissing, or girls in bikinis, or mentions of occultism and witchcraft, they'd be entitled to run a different image. The fact that generally no one objects to any of those things while someone did object to a gay kiss... well, that's unfortunate, but Keenspot isn't supporting bigotry by responding when someone does object to particular content.
Eric- There's just one thing about your assesment of the situation that I don't understand. What is wrong with saying in the press release that homophobia is wrong? Would it be "liberal cred" to say the same thing about racism?
I mean sure, in general our society has up to this point either been homophobic or has recognized homophobia as being legitemate, but the fact of the matter is, it is no more legit than rascism
Sorry if this sounds bitchy, its not my intent. I just don't see how speaking against bigotry is "liberal cred"
Comment from: RKMilholland posted at March 11, 2005 2:33 PM
... what's WLP?
Comment from: Greg Dean posted at March 11, 2005 2:38 PM
Sorry, as much as I don't like seeing anti-homosexual sentiments, I have the say the fault for this one is firmly in KeenSpot's hands. The newsbox SHOULD have been shown beforehand, like it was stated, so objections could have been made. Often, it would just have meant a toned-down version of the newsbox image would be created, and all would be well with the world. Not displaying a newsbox is wrong, but they are supposed to be given right of refusal. I probably would have been pissed off, too - not because of the gay content, but I didn't like ANY of the sexual content on my page. I used to get pissed off whenever I saw one of the racy HETEROsexual ads. I'm more lenient with that kind of stuff now, but still. First offense : KeenSpot.
If you're in dire need of ranting material on the nature of Internet porn, I'll be in the Komik Market at A-Kon, and you're invited to our Friday night room party.
Comment from: Brendan posted at March 11, 2005 2:48 PM
One fairly common theme here is that Ms. Ross is a bigot. (Although I have seen her make jokes at the expense of a Jamaican stereotype.) I have seen no evidence that she is. However, what cannot be debated is that what she did was for the benefit of any bigoted fans she might have. I will be the first to say that I hate bigotry and what it causes. However, I cannot bring myself to hate bigots, although for the sake of myself and others in my circle of friends, I would never associate with one without good reason. The condemnation of bigots is understandable at face value; however, I find I cannot share it. Because, while to me it seems illogical, I am surrounded every day by those who find some of my beliefs every bit as distasteful and bigoted as I find object racism, homophobia, or religious hatred. Indeed, for my position on certain forms of affirmative action, some consider me to be a genuine racist, as worthy of censure as a Klansman. For this reason, I cannot bring myself to comndemn those with beliefs that would categorically condemn some of my closest friends or even myself; similarly, I find I cannot condemn Ms. Ross' actions, nor would I be likely to duplicate them. (Although she should have realized that she would lose more liberal fans this way than bigoted fans for the newsbox.)
Keenspot is not run by homophobes. Almost every comic has had a gay or bisexual character in at least one storyline. This includes Alice, in which a gay man introduced the main character's father to his fiancee. Usually, these characters are not portrayed in a stereotypical light, either. COTC, Felicity, and (of course) Friendly Hostility have gay or bisexual central characters, and they were all accepted. Just because one artist is trying to pander just a tiny bit to a few homophobic fans most certainly doesn't make it a homophobic organization.
Comment from: Shadowbourne posted at March 11, 2005 2:49 PM
In my opinion, not only should it have been a picture of a man and woman kissing, there should also have been a series of pictures of animals, male and female, kissing.
I would like to live in a place where there was nothing controversial about a drawing of two dudes kissing; where homosexual relationships were not only accepted but mundane, every day. But I don't, and this Keenspoter probably doesn't either.
As sad and ridiculous as it is in this day and age, publishing something as innocent as that image is an act of advocacy; one that can result in a lot of hate mail and even physical threats. Trust me, I've learned this from personal experience. That innocent image is, sadly, overtly political. Just because you and I think it shouldn't be that way doesn't mean it isn't.
Given what I've seen of the artist's work, I sincerely doubt she pulled the ad because she's a bigot. But considering the political climate, is it so understandable that one person might be too scared to run that ad? She could easily have imagined a reaction as public and as vicious as the one she's getting now for NOT running it. No one walks into that lightly.
I would just have thought that, considering how many other pro-gay-rights advocates are posting here, you guys would be all-too-familiar with how vicious the opposition can be. Not everyone is going to be brave or passionate enough to express a public stance on their websites, especially when it is being done incidentally through someone else's ad banner instead of through their own work and on their own terms.
I think some people have to remember not all of the world has the issues with gays that America does. (and before you slam me, I say America, not Americans. I speak of the country and it's laws, not necessarily its citizens)
Did she pull the GPF ad of Ki and Nick kissing? (GPF) If not, then she can get stuffed in my books. Two males or females kissing is no more or less G rated in the eyes of the world than a male and female.
Did she protest the Star Trek episode were two women kissed? What about the Roseanne? Does she protest the many MASH episodes where Hawkeye kisses Frank Burns? (To torture the homophobic Burns) Did she protest Kids in the Hall in general?
Or does she only protest the concept of homosexuality when its on her doorstep?
I don't watch Sesame Street, but if they really do have homosexual characters and that wasn't a vague joke about Bert and Ernie that's been done before, then that's awesome.
Society makes it so two same-sex characters kissing isn't the same thing as two opposite-sex characters kissing. It's sad but true in my opinion. However, just as I can't condemn the author for not wanting to "take a stand" in favor of homosexuality, I can't condemn anyone here for taking offense. I will, however, try to spread tolerance and understanding as best I can, which may seem ironic, but it appears there are at least some people here who would understand what I mean by that.
The biggest point of disappointment to me - and I don't often disagree with Eric on things - is that I can't see how an author's politics figure into his or her content, unless the author specifically puts his or her politics into the content.
I'm a capitalist (which should be the same as Republican but often isn't), and I'm not anti-Bush. (I'm not necessarily for all his policies either.) A lot of the comments of some of the more liberal comic authors, entertainers, singers, etc. really tick me off. It doesn't stop me from viewing their content -- if I went by politics alone, I'd have to throw Sheryl Crowe, Dixie Chicks, aboult half the Beatles music, and numerous others out of my collection. But just because I don't agree with their politics doesn't mean they can't sing.
So if in my blog I voice an opinion about a political situation (it's rare, but it happens occasionally) and you disagree, Eric, and you find my opinion about that situation and that subject offensive, will you stop reading my comic even if it, in and of itself, never offends?
People have great mental editing powers. I can read half of wilwheatondotnet and enjoy it, and ignore the other half. I can listen to Sheryl Crow without thinking of her politics. I can read Sore Thumbs for what it is, even though I rarely agree with it.
If you throw out all of a person's contributions based on one opinion voiced in one situation, aren't you reducing that person to one single idea? Isn't that stereotyping in its own way? And more importantly, for entertainment, aren't you throwing out the baby with the bathwater?
Did she pull the GPF ad of Ki and Nick kissing? (GPF) If not, then she can get stuffed in my books. Two males or females kissing is no more or less G rated in the eyes of the world than a male and female.
I don't know about you guys, but well over eighty percent of my readership is American, and I'm under the impression that most other english-language webcomics are in the same boat. Again, I don't think the issue is how the author reacted to the ad, but how she suspected her readership would have reacted. How "the world" would have reacted is not really the issue.
Considering how overtly liberal I consider the opinions I express in my comic to be, I'm always surprised by how many really conservative readers I have. There's certainly enough of them to get sufficiently riled up whenever I go on about my obscene radical pinko leftist social views.
Comment from: Freak posted at March 11, 2005 3:47 PM
Does anybody else think that Eric showed a lack of integrity in this article?
Everything from the mention that a newsbox was taken down to the description of the contents is fine.
Then there is the unstated "Since there's nothing I thought offensive in the newsbox, there's nothing anybody could find offensive."
Then he makes up a reason "So, the Keenspotter in question objected because it was Gay Positive.", putting words in the unknown Spotter's mouth.
He goes on to run down a slippery slope (it must have been pulled because of the content of the strip, not the newsbox itself), attributing future behaviors to the unknown person.
Also, what does the nature of FH itself matter? Butch's being a serial killer is central to Chopping Block, but a picture of Butch ripping out a heart might be out of line for some sites; while the occult is central to COTC, the newsbox with a Chelsea being crucified might be objectionable. (Though I think that was a Melpomene newsbox.)
I had Chelsea and her lesbian vampire lover in the newsbox and no one complained a bit. Of course the sex was more implied than shown, but it was clear. That was a couple of years ago. IÌve been w/ Keenspot since the beginning and you have to preview the newsbox to other Keenspotters at least a day in advance. Unfortunately that rule is sometimes overlooked. This was one of those times.
As far as the gay issue goes I don't care either way. The Bible also says you're not supposed to charge interest on money loaned. If I was a born-again Christian IÌd be protesting down at the bank. Go figure on what people get fixated on, but they do have the right to be fixated on it. ;)
Comment from: quiller posted at March 11, 2005 4:26 PM
I really think Eric is missing the boat here.
As a contractual matter, it is pretty much a non-issue. As a rules matter, Tiffany seems to have been completely within her rights within her contract to do what she did. Keenspot accepts responsibility for what happened in not making people clear of what the rules are. Gav posts in the forum to clarify what the rules are for people. Keenspot shows that its policy is to care more about the creator's rights to their own pages content than in making sure Keenspot content is on the page.
If this was a press release, I could see the point about Gav giving his own opinion on the content being unfair to one member over another. But I think he has the right to say his own opinions in a forum post if he feels the need. He isn't censuring anybody, just stating personal views.
People have the right to have viewpoints on things. Suppose GPF had decided to advertise their last storyline with a banner that had a picture of the holy bible and the caption "Read Your Bible". I'd certainly defend people's rights to not show that banner, and I think Friendly Hostility's banner is along the same lines. "I may not agree with your opinion, but I'll defend to the death your right to have it." Is that how the quote goes?
I'm disappointed in the creator of Friendly Hostility, because they should have seen this coming and had an appropriate backup. I'm disappointed in Keenspot because they violated the terms of the contract first. I'm disappointed in Tiffany Ross for reacting the way she did. And I'm disappointed in Eric for revving up the bus after Keenspot threw Tiffany under it.
There are no angels in this situation. I personally think that Tiffany is fine, more or less, by the idea of homosexuality (Alien Dice, her primary comic, has hinted of non-standard pairings before and I also remember the guest comic for El Goonish Shive). However, she didn't want to take a stand or discuss the issue in fear of upsetting some of her readership. So she would have preferred to opt for a different ad (which, given that she ran a button ad for FH during its newsbox time, seems to be the case).
Is she cowardly for this? Yes, but I don't fault her for it. There seems to be this belief by quite a few people that if you believe something, you have to stand up and be willing to fight for that at every opportunity. I, personally, can handle that. I constantly write editorial content myself and will gladly stick my views up for all to see. But some people don't want to do that, and they just want to keep going in their own way. Tiffany, it seems to me, is like that.
In the end, I pity everyone involved. I feel bad for FH's creator (the name of the comic involved is hilariously ironic right now) because it wasn't fair to be named by Keenspot. I feel bad for Keenspot because they got maneuvered, not totally by their own fault, into a bad situation where nobody could win. I feel bad for Tiffany because she's being asked to be something she's not.
But most of all, I feel extreme pity for you, Eric, because you seem to think that a moment of weakness is worse than a moment of hate. I really think, now above all other times, that your priorities are severely displaced.
Comment from: Freak posted at March 11, 2005 5:03 PM
I think the quote is "your right to say it.", and it was attributed to Voltaire.
Question to Eric: Suppose that the preview process had run as it was supposed to: Sandra submitted the image on time; Syke objects; Sandra prepares an image with, say, the same two characters facing the camera, or perhaps just the FH logo; Syke runs just that image; afterwards, somebody mentioned that the g-rated newsbox was produced at Syke's request. Would you still have posted an appropriate article?
So far as I can see, you've attacked Syke because she didn't like that image. The fact that it was removed after being shown seems peripheral to your point; not wanting a particular image on her website is just as objectionable of behavior no matter when she does it.
Comment from: Freak posted at March 11, 2005 5:06 PM
I'll do a couple of responses -- I've been away from computers (in time for some well thought out responses and discussions, and very little personal sniping at each other. Honestly -- this has been a good examination of the issues, of Keenspot's reaction and release, of Ross's actions, and for that matter of mine, with little to no flames, and I'm impressed by all of it.)
First off, for Kira:
The biggest point of disappointment to me - and I don't often disagree with Eric on things - is that I can't see how an author's politics figure into his or her content, unless the author specifically puts his or her politics into the content.
When Gav posts a release clarifying Keenspot's decisions and the reason Keenspot elected to make those decisions, he is speaking for Keenspot, not Gav Bleuel. I wouldn't have a problem with Gav saying in a separate post, "for my two cents, I feel..." However, by conflating his personal opinion (and distancing himself from something he clearly felt was wrong) in the official post, he sets Ross up as the bad guy. That is unfair to Ross. When you make a public statement on behalf of the company, you should make it as dispassionate as possible.
From 32_footsteps (hey, long time no see!):
The biggest point of disappointment to me - and I don't often disagree with Eric on things - is that I can't see how an author's politics figure into his or her content, unless the author specifically puts his or her politics into the content.
I think that someone who perpetuates hate while professing personal tolerance is worse than someone who professes hate. Someone up there said something about integrity -- that's the key here. A bigot is a terrible thing. But someone who shoos the subject of hate away because they don't want the bigots to focus on them -- while insisting they don't have a problem -- bothers me more.
I think that's a healthy priority, really. But we're free to disagree on that.
So if in my blog I voice an opinion about a political situation (it's rare, but it happens occasionally) and you disagree, Eric, and you find my opinion about that situation and that subject offensive, will you stop reading my comic even if it, in and of itself, never offends?
No, I won't.
I'm disconnecting from Ross's work because she gave a fellow Keenspotter the shaft. She literally removed their advertisement when it was their turn to be advertised, because she found it offensive. She has the right to her opinion, and Keenspot affirmed her right to her actions, but beyond my opinion of her opinion, I think that's a crass way to operate. And that's reason enough to punch out, for my lights.
In addition to that and tangently to it, I have a serious problem with finding the very concept of two gay men kissing innately offensive. If she had ranted about that on her site, I might well have been offended by it. Would I have kept reading her work in that situation? I don't know. Would I have snarked about it? Probably not.
The reason for the snark was threefold: I found the reasons for rejecting that newsbox spurious (and I realize that's just an opinion I have), I found the way Keenspot chose to advertise their reasons for proceeding as they did flawed, and I found the act of pulling the ad from Ross's pages crass and unfair. The last is the reason I'm simply not going to bring her work up here again -- I always reserve the right to simply not read someone's work. Hand in hand with that is a responsibility to also not trash said work. Even in these comments I'm not discussing the pros or cons of Alien Dice or Ross's other comic strips.
Ross likely won't care in the least that I'm not snarking Alien Dice. (For one thing, I've never snarked it before.) And when I typed those words, I didn't know whose strip it was I was talking about. But I don't think that kind of act is what one does in a collective, and I don't choose to reinforce such behavior by acknowledging the folks who do it.
Comment from: eviljim posted at March 11, 2005 5:36 PM
There is a big difference between not wanting to promote something and hating it.
Having and advertisment for something on your page is condoning it in a way (or at least will be seen as such by some visitors).
This user did not want to condone what the ad portrayed, so he/she/it removed the ad.
Simple.
This has nothing to do with hate or censorship (preventing someone from 'speaking' on your own pages is not censorship).
Fundamentally there is no difference between what you find acceptable reasons for not posting a box ("I have no problem with someone refusing to run a newsbox with swear words or without a bikini model or without an axe protruding from a woman's head") and what you think is unreasonable (something that people like you think is "wrong" to dislike or feel uncomfortable about).
It says nothing about what the author finds acceptable or unacceptable -- he is just making a call on what he feels is right for his site.
A good example for this is I run a site. I don't run gambling ads because I don't feel they portray a good message. I, however, am always up for a trip to Vegas or a game of cards with friends. I have no problem with gambling, but I don't want those ads on my page. I want to only have business friendly ads -- gambling does not fit in there.
This is no different.
Comment from: Freak posted at March 11, 2005 5:38 PM
Her pulling of the ad was just as "unfair" as Keenspot's and Fuhr's (unwitting) failure to give her advance notice of the content. By doing so, they took away the usual alternative (ask for an alternative newsbox in advance) away from her.
Then he makes up a reason "So, the Keenspotter in question objected because it was Gay Positive.", putting words in the unknown Spotter's mouth.
Actually, that seemed fairly self-evident to me. The newsbox was of two men kissing, fairly innocuously. The only objection possible was that it presented a positive portrayal of homosexuality. Absent any lurid content, violent content, or obscene content, the only thing left is two men kissing.
He goes on to run down a slippery slope (it must have been pulled because of the content of the strip, not the newsbox itself), attributing future behaviors to the unknown person.
Actually, no. I think the newsbox was pulled because of the content of the newsbox, not the strip. I then outlined potential further steps that a precedent like that can lead to -- one day, it's the appearance of homosexuality (without a sexual element) in the newsbox, the next it's the positive portrayal of a homosexual in any way.
I can see what you're saying, mind, and I accept you feeling I'm going off the rails here, but I wanted to clarify that I don't think there's any possible reason the box was pulled other than it portrayed homosexuality as acceptable (I don't think, in other words, that it's putting words into the artist's mouth to say that), and I do think it was the newsbox's content that caused it to be pulled.
Question to Eric: Suppose that the preview process had run as it was supposed to: Sandra submitted the image on time; Syke objects; Sandra prepares an image with, say, the same two characters facing the camera, or perhaps just the FH logo; Syke runs just that image; afterwards, somebody mentioned that the g-rated newsbox was produced at Syke's request. Would you still have posted an appropriate article?
Honestly? Probably not.
Is that fair to Ross? Again, probably not.
What's the difference?
The difference is, this was FH's weekend to be advertised. The system failed Ross. Ross did not seek redress, but instead removed the ad -- in effect, breaking the compact she has with the other Keenspotters.
If it comes out that she contacted Keenspot's administration first -- which according to Bleuel's timeline didn't happen -- I will swallow my pride and acknowledge I made a mistake. If instead she simply yanked the newsbox, then responded to Keenspot's administration when others noticed it had been pulled, then I stand by my thesis.
On my last post, I actually saw that as "would you have posted a similar article." I can't speak to whether I'd post an appropriate one or not. So when I said "probably not," afterward, I was answering a slightly different question. In rereading, I realized that.
I wouldn't have responded the same way to learning Ross had gone through the process. I might have had an opinion form about Ross, but I likely wouldn't have posted about it.
Eric, as usual, you express an idea far more completely and eloquently than I ever could. I agree with your stance on the issue 100%. Though one of your commenters is right in that if Keenspace is supposed to give each person the "right of refusal" if you will by previewing the ad prior to use, I agree with your basic argument that just pulling it is bad form. And I can't say I can agree with Ross saying that she has no objection with the content of the comic in question, but does have issue the image itself. Isn't the power of the image what is so compelling about good comics and aren't those images by extension an expression of the ideals that the artist and author are trying to convey within their work? To me Ross' explanation sounds like a poor end around, much akin to someone who may hold some racist stance on an issue and then say "I'm not racist, I have plenty of (black/hispanic/whatever ethnicity) friends." I may be fumbling the analogy here a bit, but I think I've got my point out there.
Eric, maybe this is just hard for you to understand given the personal editorial nature of your own website, but not everyone wants to use their own as a soapbox for their personal opinions. Not everyone is that fearless. Besides, it just isn't the focus of a lot of cartoonist's sites. I don't know how Jim Davis feels about gay people, but I bet I won't find out by going to the Garfield website.
Posting an image of two gay fellows kissing on your website is making a political statement. I personally think that's really sad -- I would like to think that an image like that was not even remotely controversial -- but that doesn't make it any less true. And not everyone is going to be willing to do that, willing to embrace the backlash and controversy, when it has nothing to do with what their website is about.
There is an important place for social advocacy, but I don't expect to see it everywhere. You'll never see an ad featuring two men kissing during Desperate Housewives, but I don't assume that is because the people who run the network are all huge bigots. Unless your comic has a large blog component, like PA, the author's message is primarily the comic itself, and their other personal opinions take a back seat.
If my website is going to express any kind of message about homosexuality or any other "hot button" issue, it will be in my comic itself. I can see why someone would be reluctant to open that can of worms for the sake of someone else's ad banner.
But pulling the newsbox down -- particularly without going to Keenspot and working through them -- is itself making a statement, and moves beyond not wanting to advocate. It becomes advocacy against.
In my opinion, anyhow.
Comment from: Grumblin posted at March 11, 2005 6:13 PM
Eviljim:
"Having and advertisment for something on your page is condoning it in a way (or at least will be seen as such by some visitors).
This user did not want to condone what the ad portrayed, so he/she/it removed the ad.
Simple."
The Ad box as run by Keenspot is a rotating advertisement for the mutual efforts of the *collective*.
If this particular comic artist does not condone/approve/wants to be associated with that particular advertisement, she also implicitly does the same for the content of the whole comic.
Which is interesting, since that comic and what it contains is also part of that collective. If an author does not want to be associated with a particular kind of art, or subject in art, he/she should take care not to use a publisher that publishes that kind of art.
Contractual issues aside, as an author that is part of a collective, you implicitly support what that collective does. If someone does something you personally object against, but whose actions are carried by the majority, yuo either put up, or shut up.
You do *not*, ever, pull out on one of the members by cutting his fair share of exposure, which cutting an ad is.
"Share, and share alike" is the ideological basis, the ground rule of a collective. By pulling the ad, the author broke rule #1. Period.
And that really is as simple as you can get.
just my 2 eurocents.
Comment from: Tangent posted at March 11, 2005 6:16 PM
The scary thing is... this topic has drawn up over (by the time people read this in all likelihood) 70 responses, from over 20 different people (and even a pun or two, shame on you Shadowbourne! *grin*). Over something as innocuous as pulling an ad that the person found potentially offensive to her readers or herself.
Here's a question for you, Eric: Would you back down on your stance if she were to do a public (ie, on the Keenforums) apology or even explanation as to what happened? Or is this a new category: You Never Had Me and You've Lost Me? ;)
Wow... 70+ replies... scary...
Robert A. Howard, who'd love to Snark about LucasArts rushing KotOR2 into production before fixing bugs or finishing the content...
Here's a question for you, Eric: Would you back down on your stance if she were to do a public (ie, on the Keenforums) apology or even explanation as to what happened? Or is this a new category: You Never Had Me and You've Lost Me? ;)
Yeah, I think I'd back down. There's no need to be dogmatic for the sake of being dogmatic.
(Though note I'm sure there's a good number of people who think she doesn't have any need to apologize for anything.)
Comment from: Mitch Clem posted at March 11, 2005 6:33 PM
But pulling the newsbox down -- particularly without going to Keenspot and working through them -- is itself making a statement, and moves beyond not wanting to advocate. It becomes advocacy against.
Damn right. Furthermore, while it may take some guts to express unpopular political idealism in your comic (I should know, I get about 200 hate mails every time I say SUVs and McDonalds are stupid). However, while there may be a level of bravery involved in feeling comfortable making a statement, and I can respect not having that, the decision to remove something controversial EVEN IF YOU DON'T AGREE WITH IT'S BEING CONTROVERSIAL IN THE FIRST PLACE, is an act of cowardace, plain and simple, and that I cannot get behind.
I'm Canadian. That's an English speaking country, it's not far from America. (To be a bit sarcastic)
Gay marriage is legal here. Gay divorce too, for that matter. Poe is on Keenspot and posts all sorts of gay elf pictures, no one seems to complain about him.
If my readers are offended by homosexuality (I have a gay bear and a few sexually ambiguous sheep) then they can go find another comic to read.
But really - I don't see the newsboxes reflecting on the comic's page I happen to see them on, they're showing the content of ANOTHER comic. And if a keenspotter has problems with their neighbours, then perhaps they should move.
Comment from: quiller posted at March 11, 2005 6:37 PM
Umm, I quote this from Gav's statement.
When the concerned Keenspotter removed the newsbox from their webpage, it was after an objection and after which no alternative newsbox had been provided.
It looks like Tiffany did request an alternative newsbox from Keenspot, but none had been prepared (due to the timing issue) so she took it down.
I guess I've just draw enough fire over the last couple of years to know how tempting it can be to back away from controversy, even if you personally feel that the "controversy" is stupid and unfounded. I never tossed in my two cents about the US election because at that time I just wasn't prepared to properly deal with the inevitable backlash. It is done out of fear. But the fear is at least understandable. I don't think there was anything malicious going on here.
When the concerned Keenspotter removed the newsbox from their webpage, it was after an objection and after which no alternative newsbox had been provided.
It looks like Tiffany did request an alternative newsbox from Keenspot, but none had been prepared (due to the timing issue) so she took it down.
I thought, quite seriously, that it had been confirmed that the newsbox went down first.
If I'm wrong about that? Then I'm full of shit.
It's really that simple.
Comment from: DanShive posted at March 11, 2005 6:52 PM
It looks like Tiffany did request an alternative newsbox from Keenspot, but none had been prepared (due to the timing issue) so she took it down.
This is accurate. No alternative was provided even well after the issue was addressed. I think taking down the newsbox and commenting on it was going too far, but she was within her rights to do it.
Eric, I doubt you've read all these posts, and I'm betting you didn't see my first one. I'm reposting a portion of it here:
All that hoo-for-rah aside, the main point I wanted to make was that the statment "The Keenspotter in question objected because it was Gay Positive" is unfair. It can suggest that the spotter wouldn't object to an anti-gay propoganda newsbox, and that the spotter is a bigot. Whether or not one agrees that the spotter was simply hoping to avoid controversy (and failing miserably at this point), that statement without further information wasn't fair, and is structured to cause further controversy and anger.
Gah--sorry about my previous post and all the spaces. The "preview" screen made me think I needed to add "br" statements to keep it from being all one paragraph, which I thought was due to me adding italics via html. My bad ^^;
Comment from: Wednesday posted at March 11, 2005 6:56 PM
It is done out of fear. But the fear is at least understandable. I don't think there was anything malicious going on here.
I don't care if it wasn't malicious. I don't care if it was done out of fear.
For me -- I want this absolutely clear; I'm arguing as me, not as "'snark contributor" at the moment -- the problem is that the underlying assumption is flawed. I can be as understanding as I like. And I'm trying. I really am. I can almost sort of grasp it.
I just can't accept it.
Comment from: jjacques posted at March 11, 2005 7:14 PM
This is lame. It's lame that the webcomic in question felt compelled to pull the newsbox regardless of their motivation for doing so. It's lame that Keenspot fucked up somewhere in the process. As reprehensible as I feel homophobia to be, as far as I can tell the fault here lies with Keenspot for creating this conflict in the first place.
This whole fiasco is a perfect example of why relinquishing editorial control of any aspect of your own website is an awful idea (forums being one exception to this rule).
Comment from: Tangent posted at March 11, 2005 7:17 PM
oO
Once upon a time, I was scared of homosexuals. I did not want homosexuality to be mentioned in schools, I heard "rumors" of daycare workers giving boys dolls to play with and girls the tonka trucks to "help them understand" gay issues, and other garbage like that.
Thanks to a gay friend on the internet and a female friend who wanted to RP a gay male D&D character (I was GMing)... I came to terms with my (almost literal) homophobia. I didn't hate them. I was scared of them and their way of life.
Thus I can understand why people would want to avoid the topic entirely. I can see why this ad could be pulled, even if the person in question doesn't mind Homosexuals but wanted to avoid "controversy" with the Newsbox. I can even forgive such a thing... because once upon a time, I walked the path of near-bigotry (from fear can come hate).
The thing is... by lashing out at such a person... you risk sending them (and others who sympathize) into a tailspin of anger and backlash. Now, I don't see Eric's Snark as being out of place. With what he knew at the time... he had legitimate cause to comment on this. And we still do not know all the specifics on the sequence of events that led to FH's newsbox being removed from AD's site.
This is the ironic thing about prejudice... if you allow yourself to be prejudiced against those who are prejudiced... in the end, are you any better than they? (Well, perhaps... if you complain about prejudice but do not try to restrict someone's right to *be* prejudiced... but it's still a slippery slope.)
Anyway, Eric, tangenting aside (hey, I'm good at it! *grin*), you're *not* full of shit. You saw something that concerned you and you commented. And considering we're going over 80 replies on this topic... it's one that concerns quite a few people.
Robert A. Howard
Comment from: Freak posted at March 11, 2005 7:18 PM
I spoke with Syke:
- She posted her objection; when there had been no replacement after 24 hours, she took down the newsbox and replaced it with a link to FH.
- Sandra did not object; she was fine with it and let Syke know the correct place to link
- This was between Syke, Sandra, and Keenspot, and it has been resolved to their satisfaction
- Policy on the Keenspot G Newsbox has been clarified so this won't happen again
I'm disconnecting from Ross's work because she gave a fellow Keenspotter the shaft. She literally removed their advertisement when it was their turn to be advertised, because she found it offensive.
Ah. Since you raised your threat to disconnect after saying, "And besides. I want to know who did it, because [snip] I want to be sensitive to this Keenspotter's desire to not be associated with such things. You know, by not mentioning that strip on Websnark." it really did sound like you were cutting off this comic based on her political position on gay rights to pull the ad, and it had nothing to do with her decision as a member of the collective to pull the ad that supports other members of the collective.
So along those lines, I apologize for my misundertanding your intent. Not sure I agree, but sorry I missed the point the first time.
On a slightly different note, you also wrote:
If it comes out that she contacted Keenspot's administration first -- which according to Bleuel's timeline didn't happen -- I will swallow my pride and acknowledge I made a mistake. If instead she simply yanked the newsbox, then responded to Keenspot's administration when others noticed it had been pulled, then I stand by my thesis.
and
I thought, quite seriously, that it had been confirmed that the newsbox went down first. If I'm wrong about that? Then I'm full of shit. It's really that simple.
Now excuse me if this sounds like someone bopping a puppy on the nose with a newspaper for peeing on the rug, (or don't excuse me, your choice) but why are we all even having this conversation if we honestly don't know what happened?
Yes, this is a blog, and yes, everyone has the right to post whatever they want on their personal website. But it's dangerously close to libel to paint a picture of someone who pulled a "gay-positive" ad within a collective without first giving The System a chance to work, (given the charged nature of such comments in the current socio-political climate), when in fact the person did work within the system, and The System acknowledged that fact, and agreed with the removal of the ad.
There are folks here ready to tar and feather her, all because you didn't have your facts straight.
(And YES, it concerns me that anyone would pull the ad - it concerns me that anyone would object to the ad - that's NOT THE POINT. The point is, if we don't have our facts straight before posting to our blogs, we can quite literally cause another person quite a bit of harm, especially if their identity is no secret.)
Bad snark! No cookie.
Comment from: Tangent posted at March 11, 2005 7:38 PM
And the point of this is... we are, all of us (except me, but hey, I'm a mathematical concept ya know!) human. As such.. we can make mistakes.
Of course, to err is human, to forgive, divine. And as Eric himself stated that if an explanation was given or an apology on the Keenforums, that he'd rethink his position... likewise, Eric seems very much the type of person who *would* write a retraction should it be proven by the Keenspot Officials that the series of events shows that, in fact, Syke had registered a complaint initially and then pulled the Keenspot Newsbox ad only after exhausting those possibilities.
So think of it as a learning experience. And hey, if Syke is on the up and up... think of this as a lot of publicity for her that she'd otherwise not have gotten... *wink*
Now excuse me if this sounds like someone bopping a puppy on the nose with a newspaper for peeing on the rug, (or don't excuse me, your choice) but why are we all even having this conversation if we honestly don't know what happened?
That's not quite accurate. There's a difference between proceeding without knowledge and proceeding with incorrect knowledge. I got it wrong, but I was certain. And now I'm acknowledging where I got it wrong.
If it comes out that she contacted Keenspot's administration first -- which according to Bleuel's timeline didn't happen -- I will swallow my pride and acknowledge I made a mistake. If instead she simply yanked the newsbox, then responded to Keenspot's administration when others noticed it had been pulled, then I stand by my thesis.
Swallow your pride, because I saw it all behind the scenes, and I know the order. She did contact Spot will before yanking the ad, so SWALLOW! SWALLOW I SAY!
*erhem* Sorry, sometimes I feel the need to speak in that manner. I blame the Simpsons.
Comment from: Wednesday posted at March 11, 2005 8:43 PM
Um... I just commented, over in your latest PvP snark. I've been around, if somewhat quiet.
Anyhow, as has been pointed out, it's not like Tiffany didn't link at all to FH. Just not with the original ad box. In some ways, she actually promoted it better - usually, the ad box is at the bottom of AD's main page (about four Page Down taps, more if she's especially wordy that day), but the new ad was near the top.
But to the main point...
I think that it's a bit harsh to come down that hard on those who shy from confrontation. I know, it's partly from their silence that problems continue. But not everyone is strong enough to take a stand at all times. I feel sorry for them, but they're not the real problem. Putting their feet to the fire is just ignoring the root of the problem.
Shake your head in embarassment at Ms. Ross, but don't make her into a villain.
Comment from: Vorn posted at March 12, 2005 6:45 PM
It's discussions like this that make me kick myself for lurking and never participating. Especially in a discussion which has been kept relatively peaceful... Usually, arguments including homosexuality don't remain civil. I'm hoping I didn't miss the bus on this issue (not the same metaphorical bus people imply Ross was being thrown under...)
I believe in stating any bias. I'm quite aware that I have one on the issue, being 17 and bisexual (also Canadian, woo), I'm mildly surprised at my own ability to refrain from 'OMGz y r u so meeeen?'. Being bisexual, I am much more likely to take offense from the entire issue. Which would be silly, and really just a case of being intolerant of those who simply don't agree. It's something that bothers me, as I'd very much like to be accepted by the world, and not have any sort of social stigma placed upon me.
I have never read Alien Dice, and I probably never will, but not because of this fiasco. I understand that she has a right to object to something of a questionable nature, and I fully understand that as much as I wish it wasn't true, homosexuality is still not widely accepted. Stepping back from the entire 'Keenspot screwed up/Policy states/1st Amendment/Different image' argument, which I probably don't even need to comment on at this point, the main issue is that she objected to the image of two men kissing. This is the issue that seems to draw the most hate. People assume she is anti-homosexual, comments on biggotry are made, and intolerance is witnessed all-around. I found Websnark through PvP, and I've enjoyed Eric's writing ever since. On this issue, even after determining what mistakes were made in the fact-finding process, I still respect Eric's opinion. I can't be entirely sure as to WHY Ross was against the FH image. Regardless of what is said on the issue, Ross' true ideals and reasoning may never even see the light of day. For all we know, she could be a member of the Westboro Baptist Church and think that the world is being drowned in sodomite semen. While I think it's safe to say that's not the case, the point still stands.
I'm not entirely sure what Ross has said on the issue, as I've been told that her original comments were edited. I don't honestly believe, nor do I want to believe, that she is some kind of homosexual biggot. As much as it pains me to see that homosexuality still remains such an issue... I believe it's better that people argue about it than not recognize it at all. It took quite some time for even inter-racial relationships to be accepted on a general level, and we have to understand that homosexuality faces the same public scrutiny.
I've tried to see the issue from the other side. I'm a Catholic high-school student, my church encourages its members to sign a petition opposing same-sex marriage, I just finished a presentation on morality as a way of knowing regarding homosexuality. And just as I can accept but still fail to understand how others can pass judgement on myself, or have this moral belief or opinion, I have come to the understanding that the opposite is just as true: They probably can't understand my belief/opinion either. Of course this is a 'well, duh' statement, but hey, if all you verbose peoples can take part, so can I.
People learn, people change... Or they don't. Besides, Ross isn't nearly as bad as some of the anti-homosexual sentiments I've recieved. In all, lovely post by Eric, lovely discussion by all. Hopefully, something was learnt in the end.
Comment from: bunnyThor posted at March 14, 2005 3:20 AM
Hey, Eric, you seem like a smart, idealistic young liberal with something to say and the courage to say it. That's all well and good. I hope it continues to work out for you.
But it might occasionally be a healthy practice for you to occaisionally cool down from your righteous zeal and take a look at what you have written from a more rational and less emotional point of view. After all, I'm sure that you would want to believe that what you put your name to will hold up well when considered thoughtfully and logically, yes?
I bring this up because you seem to have ignored *motive* as a mitigating factor in this situation. The courts usually consider this before condemning the accused, so it's possible you may want to as well.
And when you get down to the facts of this situation, as well as we know it, we are not entirely sure of her motivation, which does not seem to be accidental. This suggests that her reasons were personal, and as with many such personal reasons, may be complicated. Maybe she has a relative who reads this strip that she doesn't want to offend. Maybe her boss checks in on her website. Maybe she just doesn't want to start "that discussion" up again with someone she carpools with. Maybe she doesn't have what you and I may think is a "good reason". Did you consider any of this before handing down your liberal fatwa on her?
Her "crime" here if you think about it is very slight. She is not actively campaigning against homosexuality. No, what she stands accused of is failing to post an image on her website that depicts two gay men almost kissing--an image that she was *not* required to post, by the way. If you think abou that, most of us are guilty of the same "crime"--you included. Tell me...how many days have *you* failed to post a non-required image on your website that depicts two gay men almost kissing? Should I not care what your reason is and declare you a bad person for it?
I applaud your desire to stomp out prejudice and bigotry wherever you find it. But you may want to consider whether being a reactionary is any more laudable. Leave the black-and-white thinking to the extremists and come join the rest of in the world of many greys.
Comment from: Prodigal posted at March 14, 2005 1:08 PM
Like the one of the reactionary decision to pull the newsbox?
Comment from: Nat Lanza posted at March 14, 2005 3:57 PM
bunnyThor: You know, you're bound to catch way more flies with honey than you will with condescension.
I know Eric can defend himself should he choose to, but the "you poor benighted kid you" tone of your lengthy comment above really rubbed me the wrong way.
Comment from: bunnyThor posted at March 14, 2005 10:35 PM
Prodigal: Are you saying that two wrongs make a right?
Nat Lanza: He rubbed me the wrong way first. Fortunately I decided to not be reactionary myself, and wrote the empathetically disapproving note above instead of what I felt like writing right out of the gate. If you haven't guessed it by now, it was not supposed to be all warm and huggly. Is Eric the only one here with license to voice his dislike of others' actions here? He made his statement, and my post was part of the feedback. If you didn't like it, I say too bad.
Comment from: Darren Bleuel posted at March 15, 2005 2:30 AM
I hope everyone reads our response to the situation in full. Despite people referencing it, some people are still not quite understanding the situation. Fortunately, it looks like frenzied discussion is reiterating the primary facts. I just wanted to address one issue brought up at the beginning of this:
This has nothing to do with the First Amendment! Keenspot is not the government of the United States of America. It has every right to drop or otherwise penalize this user if it feels the contract was breeched when they removed the newsbox.
This is correct. I shouldn't have referred to it as a "First Amendment" right. I suppose at the time, this seemed a simpler way of stating it, rather than the "artistic freedom that we have previously agreed to grant Keenspotters." In retrospect, I agree this language was incorrect. I do not believe it detracts from the ultimate message, however.
Comment from: Prodigal posted at March 15, 2005 2:41 AM
Prodigal: Are you saying that two wrongs make a right?No, I'm saying that you were dead wrong to label Eric a reactionary - if anybody was being reactionary, it was the artist that pulled the adbox.
Comment from: OneMaliciousG posted at March 15, 2005 4:09 AM
New here, hopped the link on Penny Arcade. Just thought I would throw in my opinion on this staming mound of html, or java, or whatever. I'm no tech-guy.
Someone did something, becuase they had the right to and no ammount of whatever will change the fact that it is done. Now a bunch of people have their panties in a bundle over it and are blowing everything out of proportion.
People are dropping these massive blobs of text and flaming this eric guy and each other, so obviously you all have some issues with this. Fact of the matter: can't change it. If the author who yanked the box has a problem with homos , heteros, badgers, or fruit bats, then the author has a problem with them. I wouldn't know and it isn't/wasn't fair of anyone else to make the assumption that said author did/does have a problem. Last time I checked I wasn't telepathic and all cool like that. Pretty sure none of you are either.
Point: quit with the assumptions and the whining. We live in a time that has not come to fully accept certain ideas/lifestyles. you have a right to speak your piece about it, thank god, but if all you want to do is beat a beehive with a stick then you really don't care so much about what happened as the issue regarding what happened. If there is an issue at all, becuase, once again, I don't know what happened and I'm not telepathic. As soon as I get that mind reading thing down I will happily inform everyone of the goings-on. In the mean time?
Simmer the crap down. No need to get all chaffed becuase someone exercised their contractual rights. That one guy/girl/otherwise had the right idea with the whole pie thing. People are just nit-picking and itching for an excuse to blast other people. Remove the stick from the butt and get back to the logical discussing of a viable topic, not a bunch of poo-poo assumptions and eviscerating words trying to find hidden meanings.
Yes I am passive about this. Yes I really had no good point to make with this post. I just felt this could use a tired, bored guy's perspetive from the outside. Huzzah for rambling and such.
Comment from: aniki21 posted at March 15, 2005 9:23 AM
I think it's pretty ridiculous to suggest that someone who refuses to run an advert featuring homosexuals is automatically a homophobe.
I am not anti-gay. Personally, I couldn't care less if you want to have sex with someone the same gender as yourself. If that makes you happy, go for it.
But that doesn't mean I want to witness you do it.
Hell, I get uncomfortable even when straight couples start getting it on in public places - if you want to be intimate, please God, do it somewhere in private. Seeing two people dry humping in a public park is not fun.
In short, I can understand why someone wouldn't be comfortable running an advertisement that has two men kissing. I don't think that automatically means they go out gay-bashing at the weekends though, and to imply that you know their entire motivation for it, as well as tarring them with the "homophobe" label without really knowing what you're talking about, is just irresponsible in a column that a lot of people read and respect.
Comment from: readsInDC posted at March 15, 2005 10:56 AM
Ok, in general you could label me as a liberal, but I've lived with this whining crap long enough that my comments might seem conservative or some such.
It always amazes me how any liberal is quick to jump to shout against some imagined and unimagined bigotry or such. I've seen people been called out as anti-gay and homophobic, and then drawn and quartered in the forums, merely for stating their opinion.
However, where do you stop? How do you think you will change anyone perception of LGBT movement if all they hear is "YOU'RE A F*****G BIGOT, DIE MOTHERF****R". Can you imagine your math teacher or professor going off on you for doubting some mathematical rule or law? Like you say, "Dude, there is no way that a*b equals the area of a rectangle", and then the teacher (who KNOWS what the truth is) goes and starts screaming "DIE YOU MATH BIGOT, YOU KNOW S**T, YOU'RE INSULTING ME AND WANT ME TO DIE. AAAAAAAARAAARGH!"
Accept it. People don't feel comfortable around same sex relationships. I do, but I am not as comfortable seeing two men kissing, as I am a man and a woman kissing. I am straight and I feel that is probably because I am repressing some homosexual tendencies somewhere deep within my sub-conciousness. And you won't change anyone's mind by going off on a liberal rant about how everyone is f****d up in the head and you're right and they're wrong and somesuch.
Ah, just read the reference made over at Penny Arcade. Actually, I'm surprised I missed it, as I'm into the habit of reading the comic and the news that goes with it. Shame on me.
It seems the same idea is being presented, really. Eric admitted he 'flew off the handle' as it were. I can see where the assumptions came from, I bet I'd probably have made the same ones... Luckily, I'm not in posession of a widely-read blog where my opinion and mistake-of-fact can be openly torn asunder. So yes, it was a mistake to simply assume and start to cry wolf... Rather, to cry 'bigot', as it would seem in this case.
I think readsInDC nailed it (with Math examples, no less!) with his post. People will simply look at this issue now and think 'Damn Liberals taking everything too seriously'. Maybe they're right. I remember once hearing a saying about 'not sinking to their level' or somesuch. By vehemently and perhaps incorrectly putting forth such loud protests, those 'Gay Positive' (ugly term, really.) posters such as myself come across looking no better than people whose vocabulary on the subject ranges no farther than 'DIE FAGS'.
Yes, I still like this post. I like what Eric wrote, and merely think it's a shame that it all faltered upon a mistake of facts. Now, if we REALLY want to have an argument where the bias of a person is known, I'd say Eric should snark the recent S*P comics, dealing with McKanzie. It'd surely be less convoluted than this, considering all of the metaphorical cards would be on the table.
Pah, I think I'll just go with the pie-eating suggestion. I think many wars would be avoided with this philosophy.
Comment from: Nat Lanza posted at March 15, 2005 5:40 PM
Prodigal: Are you saying that two wrongs make a right?
Nat Lanza: He rubbed me the wrong way first.
I do so love the juxtaposition of those two statements.
I'm not saying you don't have license to voice your dislike. I'm just saying you chose a pretty counterproductive way to do it.
If you feel you need to yell at me for saying that, go right ahead.
Anyway, our host has pretty publicly stated that he got the facts wrong, so it's probably long past time to stop taking whacks at this particular dead horse. | {
"pile_set_name": "Pile-CC"
} |
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Pro Test 180: With popularity of a high wellness lifestyle, a few new supplements have come to commercial center promising to help men and ladies achieve their ideal bulk. More than a couple of these supplements are ones that are utilized as post or pre exercise items. Time and soon thereafter supplement is utilized will fluctuate as per its capacity.
When they are utilized as a part of post exercises, they for the most part follow up on recovering mass and decreasing tense impacts. What’s more, pre-exercise items may have goal of offering you additional energy to accomplish more in wellness focus.
One of these items is Pro Test 180, a supplement taken in both pre and post preparing times and to support testosterone level. In its recipe, it has substances that assistance as stimulant for body that let you to support stacks in wellness focus, expanding your exercise in quality to get further outcomes speedier. Various passages have given here to help you get further learning on subject of this item. Great perusing…
What is Pro Test 180?
Multi vitamins are incorporated into this supplement to meet absence of critical supplements in your body, like never before weight lifters and competitors. They are accessible in advertise in various value go, with various sorts of pieces.
Pro Test 180 is one of critical and finish multi vitamin supplements in advertise. What keeps you beside items is their reasonable main focus.
It’s not an economical item at all. It’s one of most refreshing amino corrosive supplement and multi vitamin item on advertise. This is particularly for competitors looking for exceptional outcomes. This is made to adjust eating regimen of master competitors, or men who get a kick out of the chance to do at a master level, keeping up an eating regimen of higher dietary esteem.
What are the Ingredients of Pro Test 180?
Pro Test 180 contains the accompanying fixings. It ought to be noticed that the distinctive flavors accompany the base mixes, so there is little contrast between the flavors expect their taste.
Vitamin C
Niacin
Calcium
Sodium
Beta-Alanine
Bioperine
L-Arginine
L-Citruline
Longan Extract
Yohimbe Extract
What are the advantages of Pro Test 180?
Advantages of Pro Test 180 :
Reduce body fat
Get ripped & muscular body
Gain strength fast
Build lean muscle mass
Increase sexual performance
How to take Pro Test 180?
This supplement is accessible as tablets. You should take after the guideline that is expressed in the jug and never attempt to outperform from the restricted dose directions. Other tight clamp it will convey you some awful reactions. To get the best outcome you should proceed with this supplement for around three months.
How does Pro Test 180 work?
There are different capacities of this serious supplement and it helps in building quality, and also discards fat. These are two successful forces which are required in practice focuses to cut a shoreline body. The parts of this supplement manage inside prosperity, extraordinary fat, and low essentialness levels. Right when these issues are settled you thusly start getting comes about. You don’t encounter the evil impacts of any without further ado or whole deal responses in light of the fact that there are no poisons, steroids used as a piece of collecting of this thing. This promoter will kick your essentialness levels so you fight shortcoming with no effort.
What are the side effects of Pro Test 180?
It is 100% free from all sort of symptoms. As the muscle upgrading supplement comprises of every characteristic fixing, there is nothing to stress over hurtful impacts. Indeed, every single fixing is clinically tried. Consequently, it is free from all added substances, fillers, and hurtful chemicals.
Note that one should never overconsume it else you may have some destructive outcomes.
What Precautions to take when using Pro Test 180?
Men who are over 18 can utilize it
It is not made to cure any sort of sickness
Keep it in a dry and cool place
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How can I buy Pro Test 180 online safely?
You can Buy Pro Test 180 from its official site. Just click on any images & place your order right now. | {
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Economic Costs of Childhood Lead Exposure in Low-and Middle-Income Countries
South Africa
Region: Africa
Sub Region : Eastern Africa
Cost Compared to the region:
Cost Compared to the region:
Total economic loss at country level related to loss of IQ points and consequent decreased earning power attributable to preventable lead exposure in childhood (international dollars). This economic loss is repeated each year as new children are born.
15 Millions300 Billions
Percent GDP Loss Compared to the region:
Percent GDP Loss Compared to the region:
Total economic loss reported as percentage of country gross domestic product (GDP). This economic loss is repeated each year as new children are born.
0%10%
Cost:
Cost:
Total economic loss at country level related to loss of IQ points and consequent decreased earning power attributable to preventable lead exposure in childhood (international dollars). This economic loss is repeated each year as new children are born.
$4135136683.77
Cost as percent of GDP:
Cost as percent of GDP:
Total economic loss reported as percentage of country gross domestic product (GDP). This economic loss is repeated each year as new children are born.
4.73%
Average Blood Lead Level:
Average Blood Lead Level:
Estimated blood lead levels in children for the year 2008. Derived from country studies or, if not available, calculated using our regression model (see “Our Research” for further details).
6.56 mg/dl
Presumed IQ Loss:
Presumed IQ Loss:
Average IQ point loss estimated over a range of blood lead levels.
223361.226 points
Lost Lifetime Economic Productivity per IQ Point:
Lost Lifetime Economic Productivity per IQ Point:
Lost economic productivity (in international dollars) per each IQ point decrement attributable to lead exposure. Based on the association between decrements in total IQ score and decreased lifetime earning power.
$903.2
Population under 5 years of age:
Population under 5 years of age:
Population at risk, represented by each 1-year cohort of children under five years of age (UN population estimates).
16319200 children
About This Map
This map reflects the results of research by New York University that estimates the economic costs linked to childhood lead exposure in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This research is unique in that it represents the first attempt at estimating economic impacts of lead exposure in LMICs.
Exposure to lead has a permanent negative impact on children's developing brains. One impact is a reduction in intelligence quotient (IQ), which can be correlated with decreases in lifetime earning potential. Lead exposure has already affected the lives of many of children around the world. Unless measures to prevent exposure become a priority, many more children will continue to be affected. This map is intended to raise awareness of the economic impact of lead exposure in LMICs and the need for action.
Estimates of the economic costs of preventable lead exposure in children have been useful for decision makers in certain parts of the world, but until now, have not been available for LMICs. Without clear estimates of the country-level costs of childhood lead exposure, it can be easy to underestimate the importance of this public health issue and the magnitude of the impact of any public policy aimed at reducing lead exposure.
About the Research
The research analysis focused on the neurodevelopmental impacts of lead, assessed as decrements (or reductions) in intelligence quotient (IQ) points, and how this translates into decreases in lifetime earning potential, assessed as lost lifetime economic productivity (LEP) in each country examined. By estimating the decrease in earnings potential (lost LEP) from children affected by lead, we can fully appreciate the potential economic benefits of preventing children's exposure to lead in LMICs.
The research findings indicate that lead exposure still is a major contributor to children’s intellectual disability in LMICs, which translates into a cost of $977 billion (range $728.6–1162.5 billion) of international dollars, with economic losses equal to:
$134.7 billion in Africa (4.03% of gross domestic product (GDP) in that region),
$142.3 billion in Latin America and the Caribbean (2.04% of GDP in that region), and
$699.9 billion in Asia (1.88% of GDP in that region).
Overall, the burden associated with childhood lead exposure in these countries amounts to 1.20% of world GDP in 2011.
For comparison, the economic impact of lead exposure in developed countries (US and Europe) is $50.9 and $55 billion, respectively. Also, when considering official development assistance (ODA) to developing countries, the economic impacts of lead exposure are comparable or, in some cases, greater than the net assistance received. View the data table: Economic Costs of Childhood Lead Exposure in LMICs compared to ODA received by LMICs.
Preventing Children's Exposure to Lead
The removal of lead from gasoline is one of the most important accomplishments for children's health in the 20th century, with economic benefits that have been estimated at $2.45 trillion each year.1 In the industrialized world, there has been further progress in reducing lead exposure from other sources, including paint.
However, in LMICs lead exposure remains a problem for children, especially from lead in paint. One of the most important things we can do to decrease children's exposure to lead in LMICs is to ensure lead is no longer used in household paint and other paints to which children may be exposed (such as paints on playground equipment). To learn more about how to get lead out of paint in your country, visit the Global Alliance to Eliminate Lead in Paint.
How the Cost Impacts Were Calculated
Estimating and aggregating foregone future earnings (lost lifetime economic productivity or LEP) provides a sense of the potential economic benefits of preventing childhood lead exposure. While this had been done for developed countries, it had not been done in LMICs, as this kind of analysis is often limited by the lack of data on blood lead levels (BLLs) in these countries.
To overcome this limitation, we developed a regression model that allowed us to predict mean blood lead levels in children in those countries for which BLL data are not available. This is a significant advantage over the methods used in other economic analyses, because we were able to estimate BLLs in regions of the world, such as Central Africa or Central Asia, for which recent or complete data were not available. From this, we estimated IQ loss for each country over a range of BLLs, the percent lost LEP per IQ point, and the total lost LEP in the countries included in our analysis. | {
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Yupo® is a type of synthetic paper made from polypropylene by the Yupo company. The paper has distinct advantages and disadvantages when compared with conventional tree-based paper. The company has worked on synthetic paper products since the 1970s. Yupo® can be ordered directly through the company, or from one of a network of distributors. A limited number of art supply stores also carry Yupo®.
According to the Yupo company, the paper is resistant to tears, stains, chemicals, and water. It is also very hard wearing, making it well suited to applications in which a product will see large amounts of potential abuse over its lifetime. The durability of Yupo® is one of the major advantages of the paper, since it wears much better than conventional paper. Yupo® is used to make things like wipeable restaurant menus, waterproof maps, and other hard-wearing printed goods.
Because Yupo® is made from plastic, special inks must be used for printing on it. It is also not safe to use in copiers, faxes, and laser printers, since it is susceptible to heat damage. It can be printed on with a conventional offset press, as long as the press does not generate excessive heat during the printing process. Some artists also use Yupo®, because the paper creates a distinct and sometimes desired look, especially for watercolors.
Ad
The paper is designed to be pH neutral, and it has a smooth, glossy finish. Essentially, Yupo® is a paintable sheet of plastic, specially finished with chemicals which will allow it to absorb inks. The printing process can be disrupted by things like oil and dirt, so it is important to keep Yupo® clean before use.
Like many other plastics, Yupo® is potentially recyclable, although not all recycling facilities will handle the product. Check with your local recycling facility before discarding things like Yupo®, as impurities in a batch of recycling can lead the company to throw it out, rather than process it. The paper substitute can also be incinerated in a high temperature and enriched oxygen environment. If burned cleanly, Yupo® does not generate a great deal of pollution.
Many people view Yupo® as an environmentally friendly alternative to paper, since it is not made from trees. The company also tries to manufacture the paper in an environmentally sound way. In addition, Yupo® can be printed on using a waterless process, which reduces pollution and wasted water.
Related wiseGEEK Articles
Discuss this Article
I love painting in watercolors on Yupo, it is acid free and archival. It makes painting fun and if you are a "fiddler" you will love the ability to fiddle for hours using wc and Yupo.
anon52217Post 5
I've worked on YUPO for over 10 years, and George James in California began working on it in the late 60's when it was called Tempura paper. It is Ph neutral and lasts a very, very long time.
At one time, one of the art magazines had an article in it written by an 'authority' who said Yupowasn't archival. He quoted a partial sentence from Yupo's website about the coating of calcium carbonate on the surface of the Yupo and gave an misleading idea that Yupo was going to degrade quickly - not true had research been adequately done. From that time, Yupo has been tossed back and forth about it's longevity. But it's a grade 5 polypropelene plastic - top grade - doesn't break down - and yet it is easily recyleable and emits few pollutants to the air when burned.
It seems professional artists are either strongly for Yupo or against it. I love painting on it! Sandy
anon40240Post 4
I just invested in a small pad, but i'm not terribly fond of it for watercolor painting. I didn't really know what to expect and I'm still kind of playing around with it. I am very interested in hearing what advise other users might have.
modernPost 3
Does anyone know if you can paint with oils on it?
h2OcolorPost 2
I recently attended a workshop taught by artist Robert Burridge. We were told that Yupo should not be used for paintings as it does not have archival qualities, and in fact, is designed to deteriorate rather quickly. I would like to know for sure if this is the case. Anyone else really know?
roxburghPost 1
As a watercolourist I enjoy using Yupo paper.
I do wonder about its longevity though.
Does anyone have any idea if it will last many years, or eventually disintegrate as many plastics do?
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Our Goal for this Blog
Over the years we have received and continue to receive numerous phone calls and emails asking many different farm related questions. Our thought is that we would try out a blog to keep people up to date on what we are doing here on Puterbaugh Farms and at Hops Direct.
We will just jump right into where we are at in the growing season with a very brief look at what it took to get the hops to the stage they are in now. If interest is actually shown and people are looking for more information we will continue through the winter and pick up the beginning next spring, which will allow everyone to get a feel for what a full crop year looks like from a hop grower's perspective and all of the many challenges involved. We hope you enjoy.
Friday, August 1, 2008
It's a boy...
Sometimes, even here on the farm we will have a male hop show up in the middle of our hop yards. This will even happen in an established yard that has had no male hops in the past. In our case normally we will take them out, rhizomes and all, as soon as possible to prevent the formation of seeds in the cones nearby. We do this because our goal is to always have a stem and leaf content under the 2% mark, which allows the hops to fall into the premium category. Premium from a farm standpoint is related to the stem, leaf, and seed content, which can be controlled by the grower. The grower controls this through making sure there are very few if any male plants and by how the hop picking machines are set up for harvest.
This is what a male hop looks like. The one shown here is in the middle of a Willamette yard that is in at least its fourth year. In our opinion there really is no use for this plant on the farm, maybe at home people think they are pleasing to the eye, or add character to their yard.Here is a closer view of the male hop plant. It does not have any cones and through pollination with the female plants in the vicinity will create unwanted seeds.The cones below are Nuggets, this vine was a little more mature than some of its counterparts in the yard. As you will see below the cones will actually be fairly sizable as they mature.I did not have a ruler handy to demonstrate the size of the Nugget cones, but my hand works well enough to give a rough idea.
3 comments:
Thanks for posting up the pictures of the male plants. I have been scouring the internet for some like that, since I was trying to identify what a male plant looks like with the wild hops in my area. I believe I have found some near the female plants but would be impossible for me to remove them all. I am sure it doesn't take many male plants to fertilize alot of female plants, correct? Do you look up and down every row on your farm looking for them each year?
Would you have any info on brewing with seeded female cones? Does it decrease the Alpha acid content at all? Or change the flavor/aroma? Or cause detriment to your wort/beer from the oils or flavor of the seeds?
No it does not take very many male plants to fertilize the female plants in fields. We do not really designate any specific person to drive all the rows of our field to look for male plants, but since we do drive tractors through the fields throughout the season discing, spraying, ditching, and checking all of our drip lines, we are usually able to get rid of all our male plants rather quickly after they surface.
We are only able to see that a hop is male or female when they are blooming.
From what we understand there is not much information available about the difference of brewing with seeded cones verse unseeded cones. US commercial growers as a general rule make it a point to keep seed counts as low as possible...under one percent, but hopefully completely seedless.
Questions?
Please feel free to email us at [email protected] if you have any questions related to this blog, if there is a topic you would like to know more about, or if there is a topic you might want us to talk about.
About Me
Puterbaugh Farms is a fourth generation family hop farm. We have been growing hops in the fertile Yakima Valley of Washington State since 1932. We reside in Mabton where we currently grow over 12 varieties of hops including the following: Bravo, Cascade, Centennial, Chinook, Cluster, Columbus, Galena, Mt. Hood, Nugget, Super Galena, Tettnanger, and Willamette. We also carry many other domestic varieties of hops and import hops from other growing regions around the world. | {
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DIY Selfie Stick for camera or GoPro!
Make your very own glowing selfie stick for cameras or GoPro! BTW: Use your camera timer function to take pictures.
Support this video and get $5 OFF at Harry’s! Go to http://harrys.com and use the Coupon Code: KIPKAYHOLIDAY for a limited time. | {
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Imagine if Frank Zappa, Tom Waits and George Carlin made a record…it could be disaster, it could be a dump, it might make you hungry, it could make you jump, it may make you boogie, or want to get humped. | {
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My Day At Aquatica
Hey Thrill Seekers,
I have already posted several blogs about my trips to SeaWorld, Discovery Cove and Busch Gardens during my recent FAM trip to Orlando. My fourth and final day was spent at Aquatica, SeaWorld’s water park. This park is perfect for some unforgettable thrills, along with a bit of relaxation.
After stashing our personal belongings in one of Aquatica’s handy lockers we decided to try out Roa’s Rapids, a river ride with a bit of a difference. The strong currents propel you around the rapids, through waves, swirls and sprays. For those not-so-strong swimmers or if you’d just prefer to float along the river and let the current do all of the work there are life jackets located at the entrances to the rapids. We had a go with and without the life jackets. Personally I prefered the ride with the life jackets as you seem to sail along much faster. I also advise keeping an eye out for the great view into the Aquarium. The turning is in the middle of the rapids so it can be easy to miss when you are going along at speed.
After a few laps of Roa’s Rapids we decided to hit some of the thrilling water rides. First we got a little bit competitive on Taumata Racers, a high-speed competitive mat ride. Unlike most rides of this kind it begins with a twisting enclosed tube slide before opening out into a straight, steep hill drop to the finishing line which I think improves the experience greatly.
You start by placing your mats at the top of the slide whilst you wait for the countdown to hit ‘GO!’. You’ll then need to launch yourself and the mat into the tunnel. After that gushing water and gravity does the rest of the work. I found that the best technique for a quick start time was to place the mat as far forward as possible without letting go and pushing yourself forward as you jump on. This is a great ride for groups and families. I cannot count how many times we went on throughout the day!
Walhalla Wave was a personal favourite of mine. This is a thrilling raft ride, seating up to 3 people making it perfect for families or groups. After being nudge off of the edge by a member of staff you slide around the first corner, through one of the many waterfalls and straight into a tunnel. Once you have rounded the first corner of the tunnel you will find yourself in complete darkness. As we had not really checked out the ride before getting on, this is something that we had not been expecting, however this definitely added to the experience. It also meant that we had no idea what was coming next! You go through lots of twists turns, climbing one side of the tunnel until you feel as though you may fall out before spiralling up the other side. You are then plunged back into daylight and into the pool at the bottom. I think that the best ride experience is had with a full raft of 3 people.
HooRoo Run shares a tower with Walhalla Wave so we decided to head back up to the top to give this one a go. This uses the same rafts as Walhalla Wave, so again up to 3 people are able to ride together. This is where the 2 rides similarities end as unlike Walhalla Wave, HooRoo Run is an open, straight run to the bottom making it an extremely fast ride. Once you are nudged off of the edge by the staff member the raft plummets over several seat-lifting ridges before diving into pool at the bottom.
Next we headed for Dolphin Plunge, Aquatica’s signature ride. As you enter the park you will see an underwater viewing area containing beautiful black and white Commerson’s dolphins. Dolphin Plunge runs right through their enclosure. You begin by getting ready at the top of one of the two enclosed tube slides. Once the light has turned green you are free to propel yourself into the tunnel, lying down with arms and legs crossed. This part of the tube is opaque and will take you through a series of twists and turns as you gain speed. After about 250ft the tube becomes transparent and you will find yourself in the middle of the dolphin’s enclosure. The tube then changes back to opaque before hurtling into the pool at the bottom of the slide. I advise trying slow yourself down as you begin to see the light of the transparent tunnel to give you the best opportunity to see the dolphins as you will be travelling at speed.
We spent the remaining time that we had left in the park sun bathing, with short intervals too cool off in Cutback Cove and Big Surf Shores, Aquatica’s side-by-side wave pools. Cutback Cove offers constant high waves, whereas Big Surf Shores changes between high or slow.
That wraps my unforgettable trip to Orlando. A big thank you to SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment for hosting a fabulous FAM trip! I will follow up with one last blog featuring my top 5 rollercoasters of the trip so keep an eye out. | {
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Free standard ground shipping when you meet the minimum order amount indicated, before taxes and shipping charges. To redeem offer at checkout, enter the listed code, or, if offer indicates that no code is required, free shipping will be applied to your order automatically once you meet the minimum order amount indicated. Offer is not valid on gift card orders and other exclusions may apply. Not valid for items with extra shipping charges. Offer is good for standard ground shipping only. Standard rules and charges apply for express shipping, expedited shipping and return shipping. Valid within the 48 contiguous U.S. and APO/FPO addresses only. For APO/FPO addresses, expedited and express ship methods are not available and standard delivery timeframes do not apply. Not valid with other offers. Previous orders will not be adjusted. Sierra Trading Post reserves the right to withdraw or modify this offer at any time.
Reviewed by LovesWinterSports from Southern MN on Sunday, January 6, 2013
These socks are amazing---perfect fit (I wear a women's size 8 shoe), comfortable, warm, no sweaty feet:), and soft. I wear them both casually and for winter sports (underneath another pair of Smartwool socks). Initially, I ordered 3 pairs, after trying them out I ordered 6 more before they were out of stock!
About SmartWool
Born in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, the SmartWool clothing brand launched in 1994 as a small company with roots in the snowsport industry. Quickly becoming world-famous for SmartWool socks crafted of super-soft, breathable and odor-resistant merino wool, SmartWool has continued to evolve, now offering a wide range of fantastic apparel for active lifestyles, including SmartWool ski socks, base layers, underwear, sweaters and even jackets. Thanks to a commitment to using only the highest quality fibers and sporty, modern designs, SmartWool socks and clothing continue to exceed the demands of outdoor lovers everywhere. | {
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Fedora-17-x86_64-DVD.iso fault
http://forums.fedoraforum.org –
A bit torrent download and two downloads from the Fedora site directly produced disks which when booted brought up the splash screen, allowed moving to the choice screen, but then rebooted without progressing to the Fedora download and configuration. :(
The Fedora 16 64 bit download worked perfectly with a clean installation, making me suspect there's a problem with the iso.
(HowTos)
Stories similar to Fedora-17-x86_64-DVD.iso fault
I've been using Fedora for many years to develop a web site locally on my laptop (Toshiba Satellite C655D-S5202). Every few years I like to download the latest Fedora DVD edition and perform a clean installation. My last upgrade was Fedora 17 that comes with Gnome 3 (with fallback mode). | {
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Welcome to Macca's as McDonald's goes Aussie
SYDNEY (Reuters) - Looking for a McDonald's in Australia this month? You may bump into a "Macca's" instead.
The international fast food giant will temporarily change signs at selected stores across the country to "Macca's," the affectionate Australian nickname for the chain, in celebration of Australia Day, which falls on January 26 - a move that is its first such globally.
"We're incredibly proud to embrace our ‘Australian-only' nickname," said Mark Lollback, the company's chief marketing officer in Australia, in a statement on Tuesday.
"What better way to show Aussies how proud we are to be a part of the Australian community than change our store signs to the name the community has given us?"
Surveys have showed at least 50 percent of Australians use the nickname.
Thirteen stores will change their store signage this week, starting from the state of New South Wales on Tuesday, the company said. The regular signage will return from Feb 4.
Australian English has a number of unique turns of phrase. According to a national survey, "Macca's" is the second most recognized Australianism, just behind "footy" for Australian rules football.
The popularity of the nickname has also prompted McDonald's to call on Macquarie Dictionary, the authority on the English language in Australia, to include "Macca's" in their online version, a proposal supported by one third of Australians, the company said. | {
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Here I am at last, I've just jumped off the train
I'm about to start my life as a wanderer in the rain
I know so many people would give anything to be in my shoes
Well, that's all right for them to say, but my shoes are soaked right through.
I don't know what made me want to come all the way out here
I guess when I was dreaming, my skies were always clear
Now I'm here in a meadow with the rain streaming through my hair
I guess this is what you call traveling freely, living without care.
Here I am, all by myself, and I'll admit I'm scared
All I've got is my guitar and a couple of dollars to spare
And I know even that's not gonna last me long.
I suppose I could pick myself up and carry myself back home
But after what I put my folks through, I think I better stay alone.
Anyhow, five years of aching are packed behind this plan
Since I was ten, I've wanted to get out of the city and live out on the land.
My parents thought I was crazy and I think now maybe they're right
But I can still feel the freedom in following the eagle's flight.
I just had to come and see what all the songs were about
My hope is returning quickly and I don't think there's any doubt
That I'd better start moving if I want to get somewhere
I'll go on to the next town and see what I find there
And stay a while until I go traveling on.
(july 3, 1975)
Lyrics taken from http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/s/suzanne_vega/first_day_out.html
Click "Correct" to open the "Correction form". There you can add structure tags, correct typos or add missing words. Send your correction and get karma points! Result of your work will appear after moderating.
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5 Tips about online programming assignment service You Can Use Today
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Did you know there is a new recycling list for Ireland? Do you know what’s on it? Never fear; we’re here to clear it up!
Did you know there is a new recycling list for Ireland? Do you know what’s on it? If you are like most of our clients, here at The Cleaning Concierge, the new legislation is a little confusing. Never fear; we’re here to clear it up! (Pun intended!)
Most of us do our best to separate out the plastics and paper from the regular household waste and don’t give a second thought to what happens to any of it once the collection agency has picked it up.
Recycled waste is actually big business! The Irish Waste Management Association (IWMA) reports a combined turnover, of its members, of €645 million annually, the bulk of this waste is recycling.
Ireland sells recycled materials such as paper, cardboard and plastic on the global market. China and India are our best customers. You might remember earlier this year when 160 containers of Irish recycled waste, bound for a paper mill in China, was rejected as it was contaminated. To get the best value the materials need to be cleaned and sorted.
What goes in the recycle bin?
The list is simple but the items must be clean. One contaminated item in the bin can affect all of the items and render the whole lot unsaleable. So…here’s the list:
Rigid Plastics
The hard plastic bottles and tubs that you use on a daily basis, including water and cola bottles, plastic milk bottles and plastic detergent bottles, yoghurt, spreads and salad tubs, fruit and veg trays and shampoo/shower gel bottles. Plastic wrapping and netting cannot be included in your recycling.
Paper and cardboard make up nearly 24 per cent of waste in a household bin. This includes letters and those pesky unsolicited brochures! Also flat packed cardboard boxes for example, cereal boxes but not pizza boxes as these will have melted cheese and grease marks on them. Egg boxes, toilet and kitchen roll inserts, newspapers and Tetra Pak juice or milk cartons also go into the recycling.
What’s not on the list?
Coffee Cups – It is a surprise to most people to learn that coffee cups are not fully recyclable.
Soft Plastics – We do not currently have the technology to recycle carrier bags, refuse sack and plastic wrappers.
Paper Towels / Napkins – These items are not suitable but you can put them in your compost bin.
What about glass?
Glass is 100% recyclable. However, glass does not go in the recycle bin. Please take glass to your local recycle centre – There are several around Kilkenny and here’s a hand list from Kilkenny County Council.
Some facts about recycling!
You can make a bicycle out of 650 recycled aluminium cans.
Each ton of recycled paper can save 17 trees and 7,000 gallons of water.
We can all agree that recycling is the right thing to do to preserve a brighter and greener future for the next generation. As part of our ongoing cleaning maintenance packages our highly skilled and dedicated team members are happy to help you tackle the recycling.
We assign one team-member to your home so that you’ll see a familiar face every week. They’ll get to know how you like things done and you’ll get the exact cleaning service that you want including washing, drying and sorting your recycling and making sure the right thing goes in the right bin!
Get in touch!
We would love to hear from you. Contact The Cleaning Concierge for a no-obligation consultation today. | {
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Looking ahead to the next football World Cup, if BA are going to be transporting the England team they could do worse than naming the official plane ‘Mimicus’
Mimicus is the Latin for ‘farcical’ and farcical comes from the Latin farcire, meaning “to stuff”.
By doing this, the players will know what to expect when they’re crammed into their Veuling-operated flights to and around the Russian Federation and the fans will be primed for the predicable results, especially when we come up against the mighty Iceland at a crucial stage of the compettiton.
#AllardyceMcArseFace
Subscriptions
To see our latest subscription offers for Business Traveller editions worldwide, click on the Subscribe & Save link below | {
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When you stop putting up with the pettiness in your life, people start to take you seriously. And when that happens, things begin to move forward a little—sometimes a lot!
There are so many important things to do, so many great ideas waiting to be born, so many things to fix, so many things to invent, so many great songs to compose, so many inspiring scripts to pitch, so many jaw-dropping start-ups to launch, so many ways to contribute, so many ways to make a difference, so many people to help, and so many opportunities to create entertainment that inspires products & services that matter. It seems a shame to trade our precious time for petty distractions. | {
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Volume 19 Page 09
Hey, this page looks okay for something drawn by the Sickest Person in the World. (Feeling much better now, thanks.)
Though seriously, if I do another comic after WPK, I’m learning Google Sketchup or some other 3D rendering program, because it’s clear I’ll never learn how to just draw a ship. I can barely manage thumbs.
Discussion (3) ¬
You may be unhappy with your efforts in perspective, but to my eye, expecially your freehand perspective has a special quality in itself. There is a degree of abstraction to it that fits perfectly to your overall style. Miller was praised high and low for it in “the return of the dark knight”. Myself, I think this “Non-euclidic” perspective is what distingushes your work from others moving somewhere along “line claire” like you. I might even go farther and declare this “esprit naive” of yours is the small spark Hergé lacked. Compared to yours, “Tintin” looks sterile in its perfection.
I hope very much, when you master constructed perspective one day, you see what I mean then, so that you can return to this style, then a decision of purpose!
Well, now, when I was still posting more often in your comments, I never held back I am a big fan of your art. But there is a reason for it, you are GOOD!
Though I would give my left thumb for my art to look “sterile in its perfection.”
It’s funny that more than one person has mentioned “ligne claire,” because that’s a conscious decision based on not wanting to do huge amounts of work! A few years ago I read Graham’s King City back-to-back with Stokoe’s Orc Stain and I will never understand where a guy like Stokoe gets the time to draw that much detail. Manga artists have minions to draw individual leaves, but I figure Stokoe must be able to enter in some sort of drawing trance to get that much done.
I grew up on Tintin and the Sunday funnies (my grandfather would send a month’s worth every month in a big manilla envelope when I lived overseas. It was the high-point of my month.)
I remember being a voracious reader of weird fiction when I was a kid (as well as a lot of what you’d probably call soft scifi nowadays); I dreamed of new worlds and strange gods, of magic and science and wonder.
And then I grew up, and grew tired. I want to blame the internet, and being exposed to the nitpickiness of geek culture, but I think moving back to the English-speaking world after years of getting broken-in books at a second-hand bookstores did it too.
That was back before I got a thousand choices, most of them terrible.
But Water Phoenix King.
Ah, Water Phoenix King.
Every time I load a new page, I feel like a kid again; I can’t remember ever feeling disappointed by the gift of a new WPK page. | {
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Wednesday, April 11, 2012
April 11 - Something just for Mom
Last month I stepped out and did something for myself that I hadn’t done in a long time.I enrolled in a swim clinic for my own enjoyment and improvement.In January, I started swimming 2-3 times a week.I found that I really enjoyed this time.It was great to be in my own head and to feel the coolness of the water.As much as I enjoyed this time I realized that I was painfully inefficient in my stroke. I took swim lessons as a child, but had become really rusty and had never really progressed beyond the basics.This clinic came at a perfect time. Four one hour sessions made a great difference!
This morning I was back in the pool.I had an idea that I would do better, but was surprised and delighted at just how much better.On a good day before the clinic I was swimming 1,000 meters in just under an hour.Today I swam 1,500 meters in just over a half hour!Our instructor showed us a few skill drills and new strokes which really helped the time fly.I was so excited when I realized just how quickly I’d made it to the 1,000 mark and even more excited to finish up strong.
Swimming is one way I can have some personal play while helping to get physically fit.The water feels good.I love feeling the coolness of the pool on my face after I’ve been doing the backstroke for a bit.Seeing the bubbles from my breath and my stroke playfully float up to the surface refreshes me. This time “away” to play provides me a fresh energy to do the everyday.
I am excited each time I get to go swim.This excitement is modeled for Nate and Elli, giving them an understanding that exercise is important and fun.Now that they are learning to swim and are more comfortable in the water, I’m looking forward to more shared time in the pool or at the beach! | {
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Friday, August 30, 2013
August 30th,
We seem to get up earlier at present because the mornings come light earlier..soon there will be a time adjustment.
The track out to the Eyre Highway was dry but very rough and ridged from vehicles driving through in very wet conditions. The bush, again, has been very pretty with yellow cassias and wattles as well as white pink, purple and mauve flowers and even an example of Sturt's Desert Pea.
After meeting the Highway at Balladonia we have scooted along on the bitumen as far as Caiguna where we have found a bush camp amongst some very grey and twisted trees. The Nullarbor wind is blowing which is a change. We have hardly experienced wind at all and no doubt this is why the trees are so twisted and deformed.
After spending nearly 24 hours near the Rail Line we have seen 10 freight trains go by..some in an easterly
direction and others in a westerly direction. They make a lot of noise in the night!!
We had camped in the same spot as we did some years ago while travelling this road. The Gimlet trees are a
real magnet. Soon after reaching Zanthus we turned south on the track to Balladonia. It was quite an easy
track for 40 kms as it had been maintained by a mining company. From there on for the 80kms it deteriorated. However it was dry, which was a bonus after all the mud we have seen.
John had a 'collecting' day as he picked up a good gas bottle on the roadside, then further on a several lengths of rope. It appeared that there had been a bogging experience for some travellers although the road and surrounds are bone dry now. There were great scourges in the road and through the trees near the road. Evidence of jacking a vehicle, filling the bogs with branches and even a broken surf board were obvious. In a tree we found a 'make-shift' winch made from a branch and wide strapping.
We are camped in plain grey scrub tonight..no Gimlets in sight although we have seen some magnificent
examples along the way. We also saw the Boorabin Mallee trees coming into bloom which was great as earlier when we saw them they were only in heavy orange bud.
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
August 28th
A day of sunshine and showers. Our first stop was at Kambalda which is a mining centre near Kalgoorlie. We drove to the top of Red Hill to see the most magnificently wide view of the area. The huge salty Lake Lefroy is 510 square kilometers in size with some areas of dark red sand and others of white salt.
Onward to Kalgoorlie where we took the road east along the Trans Continental Rail Line. Bitumen for several kms then the muddiest red road which consequently covered our vehicles..what a mess and no water at hand!!
The bush actually looks wonderful because of the recent rains. Everything has a strong green colour and many bushes are in flower..particularly cassias and wattles.
The road has followed the line and in five hours we have seen five freight trains. We have set up camp near the rail line west of Zanthus so we may wave to more train drivers before we leave in the morning.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
August 27th
We have had a great day driving north toward Norseman and then Kambalda. The bush along the way has been beautiful and ever changing. Most of the time we travelled on bitumen but took one very interesting track to the east and south of Norseman. This led us along a tourist route through the old mining areas. From the late 1800s until early this century mining has been taking place in a small way. The bush is riddled with mine holes, mullock heaps and old machinery.
The flowers were like a garden..so varied and bright. They must surely have had recent rain.
We have not had rain today and this evening is warm and fine which makes cooking on the campfire mush more fun. We are having silver-side and vegies tonight.
Our plans have changed and we hope to travel for a short distance along the Trans continental railway line ..definitely heading east on our return to Victoria. Sadly our coastal route was not a viable choice. I think I really prefer the inland country to that of the coast.
Monday, August 26, 2013
August 26th
We returned to Esperance this morning..on the roadside, at last, I had the opportunity to photograph the coastal banksias. It is wonderful to see them growing so healthily in their natural environment.
Very soon we met up with John & Beth and it was great to hear how they had spent the last two weeks.
After a 'bought lunch' and real coffee, a visit to Woolworths for fuel and food we headed north with the hope of escaping rain.
Along the way we visited an Aboretom which had many stands of eucalyptus trees. Some familiar but many new ones once again. We have become much more familiar with this family of trees.
Tonight we are camped at a small Nature Reserve north of Esperance and south of Salmon Gums. There are clouds about but we hope the day is sunny as we go north tomorrow.
Sunday, August 25, 2013
August 24th and 25th
We are spending the weekend here at the Cape Le Grande National Park. It has easy access because of sealed roads. This also makes it a popular weekend destination for people from Esperance. Saturday was the first sunny day in the area after 2 weeks of rain. The temperature is in the mid 20s so good for camping and enjoying birds and flowers. We have had several walks over the 2 days..either on the beach or along the very rocky coast line. The views are spectacular. The smokey blue 'smoke bush' is very evident in the coastal bush along with coastal Banksias.
We stayed for 2 nights at Lucky Bay and now we are here in Le Grande Bay for a single night before we head back to Esperance to meet our travelling companions. We also have internet connection here.
We drove out from the Fitzgerald River NP through the most delightful native garden. Pea flowers of every colour..yellow, pink, mauve, blue, orange and red. We stopped several times to look closely and to photograph. Of course I can only identify a few as there are so many new flowers for us. Banksias and wattles are quite plentiful.
Close up of Royal Hakea
However the most spectacular was the Royal Hakea..Hakea victoria which was named after Queen Victoria. The actual flowers are insignificant but the huge floral leaves dominate the bush. These leaves persist for up to 5 years, and the colour becomes deeper each year.
Late in the day we found a Square Fruited Mallee Eucalypt tree.The buds, nuts and flowers are large about 5 cm in length by 3 cm wide. The flowers and buds are bright red. I do hope we see some more of these.
Again we will sleep with the sound of waves in our ears. We are at Munglinup Beach on the Great Southern Ocean.
Our search for Square Fruited Mallee trees continued. We only found a few which were difficult to photograph because of wet conditions and the fact that the flowering season seems to be almost over. We will continue searching.
We arrived in Esperance late in the morning..the laundramat was high on the agenda! Sadly we have now found out from the DEC office that it would be ill advised for us to go through either Cape Arid NP or Nuytsland NP. We will have to re plan out trip home. The road closures have been caused by an unusually wet winter. We will have to return on a drier year!!
This evening we have come out to camp in the Cape Le Grande NP for the weekend. The beach has white sand with an aqua sea. It was squeaky clean to walk as we did late in the day.
Lucky us, we have had Snapper again for dinner..purchased from the 'All Seas Fish Supplies' in Esperance.
Thursday, August 22, 2013
August 21st
We have had a very happy day exploring St Mary Inlet in warm sunshine. This morning we walked for 2 hours and this afternoon for 1 hour so I am weary this evening. The flowers and views from the beach and coastal dunes are so interesting with large variety of flowers and bushes. We even came across the end of the Rabbit Proof Fence at Point Ann. It is now rusty and out of comission.
The most spectacular part of the day were the whales...surely St Mary Bay is a Nursery for Mother whales and their calves. Their were up to 20 of these wonderful creatures floating in the sea..blowing sprays of water and showing off their tails and fins. Binoculars were put to good use.
Prickly Dryandra
A visitor to our camp site
There are a lot of campers in this park tonight..probably whale watchers!
The floral bush display on the way out of Waychinacup Inlet was a wonderful start to the day..lots of
Scarlet Banksia, an unusual type of Grass tree..completely different from those we have seen previously,
Pincushion Cone Flowers, Wattle and white Daisies. We drove down to Cheyne Beach where we had the good fortune to see four whales playing in the waters not far from the shore.
We have had quite a drive today, along the South Coast Highway through rolling hills of canola and wheat crops and in and out of areas of coastal bush.
We made our lunch time stop by the Pallinup River. The bush looked so inviting that I walked for awhile to
look at the flowers. I actually found a large spider orchid.
We continued on down to the Fitzgerald River National Park. We travelled into the park quite swiftly because of the lateness in the day. The wild flowers looked varied and bright. I even saw some examples of Royal Hakea. We will travel out more slowly. Unfortunately a number of roads are closed for various reasons.
However we have a lovely spot to bush camp by St Mary Inlet. Again there are whales in the water, some calves, but altogether about 10 whales playing in the shallows. Evidently they could be Hump-back whales or Southern Right Whales.
We plan to stay 2 nights here so more 'whale watching' in the morning I hope.
A fine day..how easy to break camp when the sun is shining. Our main aim for today was to organise a
postal vote for ourselves for the coming Federal Elections. We had planned to be home for the original
date of September 14th but now it has changed the September 7th. Eventually we applied, on line, for a
postal vote while we had internet connection at Albany. Also while we were in Albany we bought ourselves
some Saddleback Snapper for our evening meal.John grilled it on his cook
top over gas. It proved to be one of the most delicious fish meals we have ever tasted.
We travelled east to Waychinacup National Park and camped in a tiny spot near the Waychinacup Inlet. Unfortunately the weather has turned to rain again. There are flowers in the bush as well as birds. No sooner had I climbed down from EC than two tiny wrens came hopping around the rig..a Scrub Wren and a beautiful Blue-breasted Fairy Wren. Far too quick to photograph though.
Sunday, August 18, 2013
August 18th
Boorara Fire Watch Tree
We started the day badly by getting our feet, boots & socks wet as we walked on the beach. An incoming wave was just too quick and high for us! However, despite that we enjoyed the first fine and sunny day for a week. The roads along the coast from Windy Harbour were too wet for us to attempt so we drove north to the bitumen and headed east. Unexpectedly a track went off to another Fire Spotting tree. Boorara tree is over 200 years old. The tree top cabin was built in 1952 and was used as a 'Fire Watch' until 1972.
From there we explored some of the gravel roads before returning to the Highway. These roads took us through some beautiful forests. the Karri trees are surely the most majestic tree. There are so many of them all very tall and very straight. The under-story of the forest is quite dense with quite a few flowers in bloom. One outstanding splash of intense blue/purple/colour is the thick climbing vine of the Sarsaparilla. Another spectacle we saw today was a flock of red-tailed black cockatoos flying through the tree tops.The red feathers in their tails really glow when they fly.
As we neared Walpole we came upon the Fernhook Falls on Deep River. There was a massive amount of water flowing over the wide rocky falls resulting in a thick layer of froth. The water is deep brown in colour which results from the vegetable matter that is soaking in the river.
This evening we are camped in the Walpole Noralup National Park with pretty bush around us and a few very dark coloured kangaroos. This park is near Peaceful Bay and south of Walpole.
Saturday, August 17, 2013
August 17th Windy Harbour
We decided to follow the bitumen today. The weather has been most inclement with nasty showers all day. Along the road to Manjimup we went through the forests of 'Great Southern Plantations' with Jarrah on one side and Blue Gum trees on the other. After Manjumup we headed for Northcliffe and Windy Harbour and travelled through the most magnificent tall forests of Karrie.. Flowers are still bright in the under story of these forests. We stopped to inspect the tourist attraction of the Diamond Tree which is a huge Karrie tree with steps running up and around the trunk for you to climb up 52 metres to a fire lookout on top. The climb was not for me and I think John wished he was in his 20s again!!
We are now on the coast at Windy Harbour which as you would expect is very windy. We are on the lighthouse point at present where we have Internet connection but will camp down closer to the shore line in the sheltered camping park.
Friday, August 16, 2013
August 16th
Beautiful mushroom found in bush at Mt Trio Park
Rain fell in the night and dawn was very cold. evidently snow had fallen overnight on Bluff Knoll. However despite this we were able to enjoy an hour of walking in the bush at Mt Trio Bush Camp and also followed a track which went into the Stirling NP. I found Cowslip orchids and Cockatoo orchids as well as a wonderful mushroom which will not be going into the Gnocchi sauce tonight!!
Cowslip Orchid
We travelled south through the Stirling NP and then followed the road at the north of Porongurup NP. Nasty cold showers came spasmodically all day. We were again lucky to fit a walk in early this morning. The bush is gradually changing to tall trees instead of Mallee trees. The Blackboy or Grass trees are looking fantatastic after the showers of rain. Heading west we enjoyed a brief visit to Mt Barker where we shopped at IGA..a very good Supermarket.
Still the showers persist..another cold night. we have camped along a narrow track in the Denmark catchment State Forest. Quite a remote spot in the bush with a new red Grevillea blooming and 4 of those wonderful black cockatoos settling in the tree tops.
Thursday, August 15, 2013
August 15th.We awoke this morning to the chatter of a flock of Carnaby's Black Cockatoos, sometimes known as the Short-billed Black Cockatoo. They are a large black bird with white feathers in their tail. They are endemic to south-western Australia. (Note the blue sky..I have cheated with this photo!!)
Black Cockatoos
The day was fine so we hurried off for a walk...only one hour through the bush, and we returned to our rig just in time to miss the first shower of rain. Since then it has been raining and blowing most of the day.
We have come further north to the Mt Trio Bush Camping Park which is just outside the boundary of the National Park. We are safe here from large falling branches and any minor flooding ..as well as this we have internet connection. It is a pretty park which we hope to explore further if tomorrow dawns fine. The evening is certainly cold so we are glad of our warm rig. In fact there has been snow forecast for the higher peaks of the Stirling ranges.
August 14th
What a wonderful day we have had! Firstly Robert Fergie took us for a walk across his property taking in the three preserved bush areas. We found many new trees and flowers. What a treasure having natural bush preserved in this way and right at 'your back door'. There were even some early orchids to be found.
We were so lucky to have the time to examine the leaves, buds, flowers and fruit of so many new types of eucalypt trees.
Heather and Robert certainly proved to be 'perfect' hosts.
We left Kendenup late morning and headed for the Stirling Ranges. I cannot explain in words the pleasure and peace I felt as we drove through this lovely area. The flowers were wonderful..banksias, hakeas, grevilleas, eucalypts and many,many varieties that were new to me. Despite the weather being cold and windy we walked a little to get closer to all the bush. What a really pleasurable day.
Tonight we are camped in the northern area the Nataional Park in the Moingup Spring Camp Ground. We are very glad to have a warm rig to spend the night in.
After camping near Lake Corycup we awoke to the calls of young lambs and grey butcher birds.
This was the last night on the Holland Track. It has been an interesting and challenging trip.
The last 30 kilometers we travelled on well made roads through farming country. The wheat crops look wonderful as do the canola crops. Bushy roadsides still created a lot of interest.
At last we came out on a bitumen road a short distance north of Broomehill. The journey was over and we did feel a sense of achievement despite the fact that there was one section of the track we could not travel because we were told it was closed. It has been difficult to find out whether the track was closed or not. The north section of it was so muddy that it should have been closed to traffic as vehicles only worsen the condition. Once we had committed ourselves it was nearly impossible to turn back and there were no other tracks available to turn on to for better conditions.
Southern entry to Holland Track
Late morning we arrived in Katanning to do washing and to visit Woolworths Super market.
We had arranged to visit Heather and Robert Fergie late in the day. They live near Kendenup with a magnificent view of the Stirling Ranges. They own a small farm with 3 wonderful fenced bush areas.
Robert works with Western Australian timber making the most beautiful furniture.
Heather teaches at the local Primary School. They cooked dinner for us and we had a fun night together.
EC was parked at their front door so we were able to watch the sun rise over the silhouette of the
Stirling Ranges.
Monday, August 12, 2013
August 12th
The roads have been a joy today...smooth gravel roads, some bitumen which still follow the Holland Track as closely as possible. The roadside bush has still been varied and interesting with Grevilleas, Hakeas, Eucalypts and many more. We were lucky enough to see a wonderful broad leaved eucalyptus tree, with a glaucous appearance on stem, nuts and leaves. I wonder whether it will dye silk fabric!!
We are actually travelling through the 'Wheat-belt' of WA. The wheat and canola crops look fabulous so I hope the remainder of the season is kind to farmers. The whole area has had good rains. The crops stretch over very wide acres bright greens and bright yellow of the canola flowers.
The Lincoln Ring-neck parrot is very bright green in colour and has been crossing our path in pairs, fours and flocks..a great change as we have seen few birds.
The weather is cold with snow forecast for the Stirling Ranges. We have camped very close to the Holland Track near a salty lake in Chinocup Nature Reserve. It is quite sheltered and we have a clean wire fence to hang our washing on.
Sunday, August 11, 2013
August 11th
A little more rain in the night. Today we travelled 40 km in 4 hours..what a slow trip. The bush, again, was varied and lovely with many flowers of every variety. The water holes were even deeper and seemed more slippery. The Prado and EC have both performed well. We did tow the Prado and trailer for a short distance because the Prado became stranded on a middle bog hump. Everyone has become weary of water and bog holes. Eventually we came to the main Hyden/Norseman Road.
It is hard to explain the variety of bushes, flowers and trees...some we can identify but most we cannot..a beautiful 'toothbrush' Grevillea was easy to find today. We also found a wonderful small eucalypt mallee tree with deep maroon coloured long flower buds on it. John did a search on his Euclid computer program and was told there are 47 other eucalypts with the same style flower bud.. He actually narrowed this particular one down to 'Eucalyptus Incerata'. Some blooms were showing..beautiful cream delicate flowers.
A brief visit to Wave Rock was enjoyed but very commercial and different from what we have been through!!
Beth & John have now departed west and we have come south. We plan to meet again in a couple of weeks.
We are camped in at Flat Rock Nature Reserve some distance south of Hyden and surprisingly there is internet connection.
Travelling today has been slow due to all the water holes we have had to negotiate. Some were very deep and others very slippery. Because of our excellent drivers we have not had a bogging incident. We only travelled 85 km for the day of 6 hours driving.
The bush still continues to amaze us all with variety and colour. Quite a few areas have been burnt,
some areas have low bush, some areas are dominated with flowers. We have seen a number of lovely wattles and some new eucalypts to identify.
Desert areas often have dead acacias which have dried and look much like woven baskets. They have inspired me to stitch. During the last few days we have seen more of these 'acacia baskets'.
The weather is fine, cool and windy this evening.
Because we had very heavy rain last night we decided to spend the day at this camp amongst the beautiful Gimlet Salubris Eucalypts. Their trunks are a magnificent deep copper in colour. Some of the trunks are quite fluted. I really love them and hugged quite a few!! Exploring this bush at leisure h
as been a pleasure.
We have had no further rain and the road and camp ground have dried out considerably.
Tonight I am cooking 'Casserole Australis' in the camp oven. It is always a fun meal with dumplings on top!
The day has been clouded with rainfall becoming heavier. The Holland Track has also deteriorated which has caused progress to be slow as we slipped through water and mud holes. Despite all this we have had an
interesting day visiting various rock holes and rock formations. We considered it important that we visited
Thursday Rock on Thursday!!
The last rocky outcrop we actually drove over.Krackouer Rock was very rough but interesting to cross.
Again the trees have been a feature. Low bush undergrowth really highlights the beautiful trees.
Today's woodlands featured Salmon Gums and Ribbon Barked Mallees. The beautiful salmon colour of the
trunks of the Salmon Gums was spectacular. The contrast of the Ribbon Mallees with their long streamers
of bark ribbons was magnificant.
The Holland Track was designed as a short cut for miners walking from the coast to the Coolgardie and
Kalgoorlie gold fields. John Holland, a resourceful bushman, chose three other experienced bushmen and with five good horses and a light dray and they left Broomhill in April 1893. They arrived in Coolgardie in June 1893. They had blazed a track more than 500 kilometres in length. Much of the original track has now disappeared under clearing and cultivation. The track we are following is as close to the original one as possible.
The northern end is wide and makes for excellent travelling, but for most of today we have travelled much
more slowly on a two wheel track. We hope for a dry day tomorrow as we are camped in very wet conditions this evening.
EC has travelled the deeply rutted tracks with ease and we are warm and dry inside.
A visit to see the 'Super Pit' where gold mining still continues within this massive hole.
The trucks and graders at the bottom of the pit look like 'match box' toys. Again the colours on the mullock
heaps impress me with their soft beauty.
The Holland track beckoned us to travel south west. We drove through Coolgardi which is an old mining area but has not produced gold since 1963. Gimlet trees have dominated the roads sides along with a few other eucalypt varieties. We stopped to explore Gnarlbine Rock which is huge. Further on we stopped for lunch at Victoria Rock which is even larger. Victoria Rock is named after Queen Victoria..both rocks are extensive with small 'tarns' or water holes on top.The water is amazingly clear.
The road is much easier driving then we had imagined so we have been able to camp earlier than anticipated. We are in a bush spot with many small gimlet eucalypts about us. It is a very warm evening again.
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
August 5th & 6th
The highlight of our 150 km. drive into Kalgoorlie was the beautiful trees..with trunks the colour of deep copper, copper/green, black, cream and some with black butts. There were those with single trunks and the
Mallee trees with multiple trunks.
Mining became obvious as we neared the town with the colours of the soil and gravel in the mullock heaps proving quite inspirational. Luckily we have found a camping park for two nights.
Kalgoorlie is quite a clean town with wide streets featuring many of the old buildings of the early 'Gold' days. Hotels feature on many of the street corners. Mining adds an obvious background to every day life. This week there are 2000 visitors in town to attend the 'Dealers and Diggers' conference.
Our main focus has been on shopping for food and other necessities, washing and drying clothes and some time out from driving. EC had to have some mechanical work done this morning.
Both nights we have walked a kilometer down Lane St to have dinner at the Albion Shamrock Hotel...quite a pleasant change from eating around a camp fire.
Paddy Hannan StatuePatrick "Paddy" Hannan was a gold prospector whose discovery on 17 June 1893 near Kalgoorlie, set off a gold rush in the area.
Monday, August 5, 2013
August 4th
Quite a long day of travelling with warm weather and now an evening breeze. We are camped in the bush along side the Nippon Highway. The bush was similar all the way out of the Queen Victoria Spring Reserve.
The variety of trees is amazing, many are in bud or just beginning to flower.
We came out of the Reserve and onto the Nippon Highway at Argus Corner.There is mining happening in this area NE of Kalgoorlie. Presumably because of this, the road was much better and of a normal width.
We stopped at a water tank and windmill and chatted to a truck driver who had stopped to have a quick wash to rid his face of dust. He was the first person we had seen for 3.5 days. It is quite remote in this part of Australia. It was the first windmill we had seen for a similar time. The water was clean so a hot shower will be enjoyed this evening.
I still love windmills after seeing so many on outback stations.Many times I have used their familiar blades in my textile work.
The days are warm although the mornings are quite cool with our coldest today at -04 deg.
We continued travel through the Queen Victoria Spring Conservation Park. Despite this park is so far west
it is still considered as part of the Great Victoria Desert. Much of it has been burnt by wild fire.
It is recovering well with plants and trees showing wonderful new growth, in fact the new Spinifex bushes
look so fresh and healthy, We enjoyed a walk to a Streich's memorial cairn across the sand dunes for 1.3 km.
Lunch was enjoyed among flowers and bushes. We continued for a short time and then set up camp early in the afternoon. Time spent relaxing at this flat sandy area surrounded by Marble Gums was much appreciated. Marble Gums are really beautiful eucalypts which have glaucos type leaves and an amazingly marbled trunk. Another very attractive eucalypt is the Boorabin Mallee which has brilliant orange coloured buds. I have collected a few leaves from the trees we have been able to identify. My plan is to dye fabric with them on my return to Milawa.
We all enjoyed the wonderful drive through a spectacular bush of Gimlet Eucalypts and Goldfield Black Butt
Eucalypts. The bush varied as we went along but we saw a huge variety of bushes and flowers.
I will list some of them for my own record: Causerina, Cypress, Hakea Francisiana, Acacias, Grevilleas, Eucalypts including Gimlet, Youngiana, Goldfields Blackbutt, Wood Wardie, Flavida (Yellow Flowered Mallee) and Platycorys (Boorabin Mallee), Daisies, Upside down plants in bloom, Desert poplars and Grass trees.
Driving through the abandoned aboriginal settlement of Cundeelee left us all feeling disallusioned. Such places, where so much money has been spent and not used to advantage is really saddening. The relics of buildings, sports courts and old cars were in a really scenic spot on top of a hill. We believe that aboriginal families were relocated to this point in preparation for the tests at Maralinga. Evidently there was no readily available water and people, generally, were not happy.
The road did deteorate this afternoon and was very tiring for the driver, the passenger and the vehicle, because it was so narrow. However the lovely bush continued.
This evening we are camped near Queen Victoria Springs on a red sandy spot. To really top the day off
John Harrison is cooking roast beef for dinner.
Thursday, August 1, 2013
August 1st.
Sunrise at Rawlinna
What a wonderful sunrise over Rawlinna this morning!! We have not yet become accustomed to the dawn time in WA. Sun-up was about 6.30 am..we were up and about!
John has had contact with the Barbara Hogg, Secretary, of the 'Nullarbor Muster' which is held annually in April at Rawlinna. It is a big event which attracts 1000 visitors,,,horses and competitors. There are many aspects of entertainment including a Silent Auction. The proceeds from this auction go to the Flying Doctor Service. John brought a pack of wine over to donate to this cause. It will be interesting to see how much the box of five Patricia wines are sold for.
This morning our road had a contrastingly good gravel surface compared with the track of the previous few days. It ran adjacent to the Trans Continental Rail Line so it was fun to watch several trains quietly move by.
This evening we have camped amongst wonderful Gimlet Salubris Eucalypt trees at Zanthus near the Rail line. Their trunks are fluted with wonderful smooth copper/green bark. I find them remarkably attractive.
The weather is warm and sunny so we have stopped travelling mid afternoon to dry clothes, make bread,
have showers and generally relax in this very pretty place. | {
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Sherrie Hewson breaks down on last Loose Women appearance
Sherrie Hewson was reduced to tears on Monday when she waved goodbye to 'Loose Women' following 14 years on the panel
Sherrie Hewson broke down in tears on Monday (05.09.16) as she bid an emotional farewell to 'Loose Women'.
The tough-talking panellist - who has appeared on the show for 14 years - couldn't hide her sadness as her co-stars pulled together to make her last day on the programme one to remember with touching tributes and plenty of surprises.
Within minutes of stepping onto the show, Sherrie was a blubbering wreck as she thanked her fellow panellists and the weekday viewers for tuning in to listen to her opinions.
She said as tears rolled down her cheek: "Thank you because it had been absolutely amazing but thank you so much for supporting me - you mean the world."
Nadia Sawalha was the first to present the 'Benidorm' star with a gift as she pulled out a handmade cake that she'd created with her children Maddie, 13, and Kiki, seven.
However, the delicious eye-catching creation didn't go according to plan as they ran out of blue icing for the back of the cake and had to cover it up with little figurines.
Coleen Nolan was determined to stick the boot in with her gift as she teased that Sherrie's ex-husband Ken Boyd - who she hasn't spoken to since she found out he'd cheated on her in 2004 - had stopped by to wish her luck.
She added: "But Ken wasn't free so we got you another Ken."
As the brunette beauty pulled out a toy Ken doll, Sherrie snatched it and smashed its head against the table.
She said: "He's the perfect man as he can't talk back!"
The panellists - which also included Andrea McLean on today's show - sponsored a disability assistance dog named Diva in her name after she said previously she desperately wanted a pet of her own.
However, the surprises didn't stop there as the 'Are You Being Served?' star was reduced to tears again when her long-time friend and former 'Coronation Street' co-star Kevin Kennedy - who played Norman 'Curly' Watts' in the long-running soap - left her a heartfelt message.
The 55-year-old actor then appeared from behind the stage wings and crept up on his pal.
Stephen Bear - who flirted up a storm with Sherrie last week - also made an appearance as he dressed up as a sexy postman to read a letter from absent panellist Janet Street-Porter.
Meanwhile, the show was drawn to a close when Coleen got up and performed her rendition of Golden Girls' theme tune 'Thank You For Being a Friend'. | {
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Employment Opportunities
Employment Opportunities Offered by MAAC Kids
MAAC Kids is Hiring!Please fill out the form on the left to apply to work with MAAC Kids! All Applicants will need to be able to pass a background check, have a clean driving record, and a minimum of a highschool diploma or GED to qualify for employment at MAAC Kids. | {
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} |
Flood Warning For Coquille River
THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN MEDFORD HAS CONTINUED A FLOOD WARNING THAT CONTINUES FOR THE COQUILLE RIVER AT COQUILLE. AT 12:30AM MONDAY, THE STAGE WAS 22.9 FEET. (FLOOD STAGE IS 21 FEET). MINOR FLOODING IS OCCURRING AND MINOR FLOODING IS FORECAST. THE RIVER IS FORECAST TO REACH A PEAK TONIGHT…BUT WILL REMAIN ABOVE FLOOD STAGE THROUGH THURSDAY NIGHT. AT 23 FEET, SOME FARM BUILDINGS MAY BE THREATENED AND ROADS COVERED IN LOW AREAS BY RISING WATER. | {
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